Jul 25, 2019 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 25th July 2019

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 25th July 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Reservation in Private Jobs Part of: Mains GS-II - Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors In News: Andhra Pradesh becomes First State to Reserve 75% Private Jobs for Local Youths According to the new law, if a company does not find the necessary skills in locals, then it will need to train them in association with the state government, The law is applicable to all industrial units, factories, joint ventures and PPP projects. The step is positive in that it promotes local hiring This helps in addressing the discontent among native youth about loss of jobs to migrant labour from other states (like UP, Bihar)  Issues It is against the spirit of free-market economy If required skills are not found in local youth, then industries have to skill them increasing their cost of operations This will discourage major industries from outside the state to set up its unit in the state of AP Similar laws are proposed in other states like Madhya Pradesh, which cumulatively impacts the unity of India and freedom of its citizens (Article 19(1)(d), 19(1)(e),19(1)(g)) Prandhan Mantri Laghu Vyapari Maan-dhan Yojana (PMLVMDY) Part of: Mains GS-II - Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes. In News: The centre’s pension scheme for small traders (PMLVMDY) has been notified and being introduced on trial basis from this week The scheme assures a minimum monthly pension of Rs. 3,000/- month after attaining the age of 60 years Who can enrol for this scheme? All small shopkeepers and self-employed persons as well as the retail traders with GST turnover below Rs. 1.5 crore and age between 18-40 years Potential of the Scheme? The scheme would benefit more than 5 crore small shopkeepers and traders. Simplified process of enrolment-  based on self-declaration as no documents are required except Aadhaar and bank account. Interested persons can enrol themselves through more than 3.25 lakh Common Service Centres spread across the country. Government of India will make matching contribution in the subscribers’ account LIC has been chosen as pension fund for this scheme. Do you know? Only 7.4% of the working age population in India is covered under a pension program( 65% for Germany & 31% for Brazil) according to the 2017 WEF’s report on Global Human Capital. Demographically, India will transition slowly from a 'young' to a 'greying' country, where persons above the age of 60 would increase from 8.9% of the population now to 19.4% by 2050 Ramadorai Committee on Household finances – India is sitting on a ticking pension time bomb, whereby demographic dividend can become demographic concern Concerns associated with Sugarcane Industry Part of: Mains GS-III - Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies and MSP In News Centre has decided to halt the trend of rising MSP for Sugarcane Centre also to expand the buffer stock of sugar Why such decisions?  To correct the demand-supply imbalances – estimated production of sugar this year is 32.95 million, whereas domestic demand is just 26 million tonnes. To Stabilise retail prices – bumper harvest combined with high rates of recovery of sugar from sugarcane leading to glut in supply leading to crash in prices To Reduce payment arrears from mills to farmers - Centre announces the minimum price that mills must pay to sugar cane cultivators (large vote bank- hence subject to populism leading to loss for mill owners) India rises in global innovation ranking Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS-III - Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development. In news: India has improved from its previous year rank of 57 to 52 in the Global Innovation Index 2019 There has been consistent improvement in past few years - 81 in 2015, which rose to 66 in 2016, 60 in 2017 and 57 in 2018. Major innovation drivers are ICT services exports, graduates in science and engineering, the quality of universities, gross capital formation and creative goods exports The report is brought out by the UN World Intellectual Property Organisation, INSEAD and CII Miscellaneous News Milkyway’s violent birth decoded Our galaxy Milkyway merged with another small galaxy nearly 10 billion years ago, according to studies based on data from Gaia space observatory This collision increased our galaxy’s mass by about a quarter and triggered a period of accelerated star formation lasting about 2 to 4 billion years, Galaxies of all types began to form soon after Big Bang explosion (marked the beginning of Universe some 13.8 billion years ago) Gaia is a space observatory of the European Space Agency, launched in 2013 Pic: https://th.thgim.com/sci-tech/science/55thu1/article28701512.ece/alternates/FREE_660/THJC-SPACE-MILKYWAY (MAINS FOCUS) POLITY TOPIC: General studies 2  Indian Constitution- historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure. Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure, devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein. Parliament and State Legislatures – structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these. The limits of anti-defection Concerns: The prolonged political crisis in Karnataka has demonstrated the ways in which the nearly 35-year-old anti-defection law can be used and abused. Context The political crisis that began in Karnataka with the resignation of 15 MLAs that took five days and multiple missed deadlines to be put to vote This underscored the tortuous working of India’s anti-defection law and threw up a range of associated legal and constitutional questions. The incident calls for an interpretation of the three provisions of the Constitution: Article 190 (vacation of seats), Article 164 (1B), and the Xth schedule of the Constitution. Anti-defection law: The seeds of the anti-defection law were sown after the general elections in 1967. Anti-defection provisions in India were first introduced in 1985 through the 52nd amendment to the Constitution. It lays down the process by which legislators may be disqualified on grounds of defection by the Presiding Officer of a legislature based on a petition by any other member of the House. The practice so far is that courts do not interfere until a decision regarding disqualification is taken The anti-defection law does not specify a timeframe for Speakers to decide on defection proceedings. When the politics demanded, Speakers were either quick to pass judgment on defection proceedings or delayed acting on them for years on end. Grounds of disqualification under Anti-Defection law: A legislator is deemed to have defected if he either voluntarily gives up the membership of his party or disobeys the directives of the party leadership on a vote. This implies that a legislator defying (abstaining or voting against) the party whip on any issue can lose his membership of the House.  The law applies to both Parliament and state assemblies. Exceptions under the law: Legislators may change their party without the risk of disqualification in certain circumstances. The law allows a party to merge with or into another party provided that at least two-thirds of its legislators are in favour of the merger The amendment, by which the Tenth Schedule was inserted in the Constitution, did three broad things. Firstly, it made legislators liable to be penalised for their conduct both inside (voting against the whip of the party) and outside (making speeches, etc.) the legislature — the penalty being the loss of their seats in Parliament or the state legislatures. Secondly, it protected legislators from disqualification in cases where there was a split (with 1/3rd of members splitting) or merger (with 2/3rds of members merging) of a legislature party with another political party. Thirdly, it made the Presiding Officer of the concerned legislature the sole arbiter of defection proceedings Early attempts at a law to find the solution to the defections: The first one was made by Indira’s Home Minister Uma Shankar Dikshit in 1973; The second,in 1978, by Shanti Bhushan, Minister for Law and Justice in the Janata Party government of Morarji Desai. The third attempt which was successful —was made in 1985, after the Congress won more than 400 seats in Lok Sabha in the aftermath of Indira’s assassination. The 2003 Amendment The last step in the legislative journey of the anti-defection law came in 2003. A Constitution Amendment Bill was introduced in Parliament by the government of Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee to address some of the issues with the law. A committee headed by Pranab Mukherjee examined the Bill. Pranab Mukherjee Committee observations: It is observed that the lure of office of profit plays dominant part in the political horse-trading resulting in spate of defections and counter defections. The one-third split provision which offered protection to defectors was deleted from the law on the committee’s recommendation. The 2003 Amendment also incorporated the 1967 advice of the Y B Chavan committee in limiting the size of the Council of Ministers, and preventing defecting legislators from joining the Council of Ministers until their re-election. Way Forward: Politicians found loopholes in this law and used it for their own benefit. It is high time that a watchdog should be provided to our Parliament and there is a need for our constitutional pundits to revisit the issue to combat the menace of corruption and defection which has eroded the values of democracy. There is need to build a political consensus so that the room for political and policy expression in parliament for an individual member is expanded. Conclusion The anti-defection law seeks to provide a stable government by ensuring the legislators do not switch sides. However, this law also restricts a legislator from voting in line with his conscience, judgement and interests of his electorate. Such a situation impedes the oversight function of the legislature over the government, by ensuring that members vote based on the decisions taken by the party leadership, and not what their constituents would like them to vote for. The long drawn-out events in the Karnataka Vidhan Sabha have shown that even after three decades, the anti-defection law has not been able to stop political defections Connecting the dots: Discuss the concerns against anti-defection laws suggest the possible reforms that can be made to anti-defection law? Even after three decades, the anti-defection law has not been able to stop political defections. Critically analyse the given statement? HEALTH TOPIC: General studies 2  Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Healthcare system needs more healing hands Context: The fault lines of the Indian healthcare system, especially those of our understaffed and under-skilled health workforce, are in urgent need of repair Concerns: The Supreme Court has averred that health is a human right, while expressing its anguish at the spate of child deaths in Muzaffarpur. The tragedy in Bihar comes at a time when doctors and patients are locked in an aggressively adversarial relationship across the country. These are strict reminders that we need to urgently repair the fault lines in our health system. One of the major drawback is in terms of lack of health care workforce. How many health workers do we need? As per Millennium Development Goals (MDGs ): The minimum number of health workers needed per 1,000 populations is 22 as per world health organisation. The services includes maternal and child health as well as major infectious diseases. India’s National Health Mission too pursued the restricted MDG agenda, in which nearly 80% of population health needs were unaddressed. As per Sustainable development Goals(SDG): The minimum number of health workers needed per 1,000 population are 44.5 as per WHO. This was based on 12 health indicators and the need to deliver universal health coverage. The services include non-communicable diseases, mental health and other conditions. About WHO: World Health Organisation is a specialised agency of UN Established in 1948 HQ : Geneva, Switzerland It is concerned with international public health It acts as coordinating authority on international public health India is a founder member of WHO. It is a member of UN Development Group (UNDP). Recent statistics from National Sample Survey of 2016: Qualified allopathic doctors are overall 4.5 per 10, 000 Population, but only 1 per 11,000 in the public sector. The ratio of nurses and midwives to doctors is 1.7, while it should be at least 3:1 India needs 2.5 million midwives, there are a total of only 1.3 million nurses overall, with many of them lacking adequate midwifery skills. Midwifery has been subsumed under general nursing, after independence. How do we overcome these challenges?  The reconstituted Medical Council of India, with a nominated Board of Governors, is doing a commendable job in reforming a moribund regulatory system of medical education. It proposes now to permit consortia of large private institutions of repute to start medical colleges or even partner with existing medical colleges to train more undergraduate students. It is necessary to upgrade district hospitals in these states and make them robust training facilities for undergraduate and postgraduate medical and nursing education as well as allied health professional training The National Health Mission should consider recruiting fresh medical graduates into a 3-year short service commission to provide for flexibility in posting to underserved states and areas. There is a need to revive midwifery training programmes to full potential by enhancing scale, skills, scope, social status and salaries. Digital technology, with decision support systems, management algorithms and tele-consulting, can greatly amplify their effectiveness. Advanced clinical nursing, needed for multiple specialities, can be developed by starting diplomas and fellowships affiliated to the NBE. Conclusion: There are far less healthcare providers than needed and those available are severely maldistributed across states, and between rural and urban areas. As the number of health workers raises and the country’s health system needs are saturated, the surplus may also invigorate the global health workforce as countries with ageing populations and shrinking workforce stretch their hands to seek support from India’s demographic bounty. But till then, India and Bihar first. Connecting the dots: Discuss the challenges faced by health care system in India. Suggest the measures to address the challenges While the private sector dominates healthcare delivery across the country, a majority of the population living below the poverty line (BPL) continues to rely on the under-financed and short-staffed public sector for its healthcare needs, as a result of which these remain unmet. Comment. Also suggest ideas to improve the status of public healthcare in India. “Health is a Human Right”. Elucidate the statement Discuss the goals and objectives of National health policy 2017 (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Note:  Featured Comments and comments Up-voted by IASbaba are the “correct answers”. IASbaba App users – Team IASbaba will provide correct answers in comment section. Kindly refer to it and update your answers. Q.1) Prandhan Mantri Laghu Vyapari Maan-dhan Yojana is being implemented by which ministry? Ministry of Labour and employment Finance Ministry Ministry of Human Resource development Ministry of Skill development and entrepreneurship Q.2) Global Innovation Index is brought out by IMF World Bank World Economic Forum UN World Intellectual Property Organisation Q.3) Fair and remunerative Prices for sugarcane is approved by Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs Commission for agricultural costs and committee Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers welfare Prime Minister’s Office Q.4) Tarun Ramadorai Committee constituted by RBI dealt with which of the following issue? Household Finance Financial inclusion Cryptocurrency Impact of Demonetisation Q.5) Gaia space observatory belongs to which space agency? ChinaNational Space Administration Indian Space Research Organisation NASA European Space Agency MUST READ Draft New Education Policy offers contentious remedies for a structural malady in medical studies The Hindu Having the last word on ‘population control’ The Hindu India's shifting strategic concerns The Hindu Making Chennai a water-wise city The Hindu  Share of the state Indian Express Explained: What are sovereign bonds, and what are their risks and rewards? Indian Express  Ailing healthcare system needs more healing hands Financial Express Agricultural growth needs warehousing reforms Financial Express

Jul 24, 2019 RSTV Video

RSTV IAS UPSC – AERA (Amendment) Bill, 2019

AERA (Amendment) Bill, 2019 Archives 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: Mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment In News: Rajya Sabha passed the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India (Amendment) Bill, 2019, and the Bill is now pending in Lok Sabha.  The Bill amends the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India Act, 2008. The Act established the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India (AERA).   Role of AERA  Few years back, private players started operating civilian airports.   Typically, airports run the risk of becoming a monopoly because cities usually have one civilian airport which controls all aeronautical services in that area.  To ensure that private airport operators do not misuse their monopoly, the need for an independent tariff regulator in the airport sector was felt. Consequently, the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India Act, 2008 (AERA Act) was passed which set up AERA.  Before AERA was set up, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) fixed the aeronautical charges for the airports under its control and prescribed performance standards for all airports and monitored them.  Various committees had noted that AAI performed the role of airport operator as well as the regulator, which resulted in conflict of interest. Further, there was a natural monopoly in airports and air traffic control.  In order to regulate the growing competition in the airline industry, and to provide a level playing field among different categories of airports, AERA was set up. AERA regulates tariffs and other charges (development fee and passenger service fee) for aeronautical services (air traffic management, landing and parking of aircraft, ground handling services) at major airports (Major airports include civilian airports with annual traffic above 15 lakh passengers). For the remaining airports, tariffs are determined by the Airports Authority of India (AAI), which is a body under the Ministry of Civil Aviation that also operates airports. It also monitors the performance standard of services across these airports. The Bill seeks to amend –  Definition of major airports:  Currently, the AERA Act defines a major airport as one with annual passenger traffic over 15 lakh, or any other airports as notified by the central government.  The Bill increases the threshold of annual passenger traffic for major airports to over 35 lakh. The exponential growth of the sector has put tremendous pressure on AERA, while its resources are limited.  Therefore, if too many airports come under the purview of AERA, it will not be able to perform its functions efficiently. Tariff determination by AERA:  Under the Act, AERA is responsible for determining the:  (i) Tariff for aeronautical services every five years,  (ii) Development fees (iii) Passengers service fee  It can also amend the tariffs in the interim period.  The Bill adds that AERA will not determine:  (i) Tariff (ii) Tariff structures (iii) Development fees, in certain cases.   These cases include those where such tariff amounts were a part of the bid document on the basis of which the airport operations were awarded.  AERA will be consulted (by the concessioning authority, the Ministry of Civil Aviation) before incorporating such tariffs in the bid document, and such tariffs must be notified. Concerns: If the challenge for AERA is availability of limited resources, the question is whether this problem may be resolved by reducing its jurisdiction (as the Bill is doing), or by improving its capacity.  It may be argued that instead of strengthening the role of the regulator, its purview is being reduced. Plus this amendment does not serve the interest of consumers. Note: India’s 100th airport: Pakyong, about 30 km from Gangtok Must Read: What Ails Aviation Sector Aviation Flying For All National Green Aviation Policy Upgradation of Airports in North East

Jul 24, 2019 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 33

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 33 Archives Q.1) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Bhabha Kavach’  It is jointly being developed by India and Israel It is an anti-missile system to protect the military installations at the India-Pakistan border Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘JATAN’ It is used for creating digital collections in various museums and digital archival tools that are used in background for managing National Portal and Digital Repository for Indian Museums. It is developed by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) ‘Motihari-Amlekhgunj Petroleum Products Pipeline’ is associated with India and Nepal Bhutan Bangladesh Myanmar Q.4) The annual Joint Military Exercise ‘Hand-in-Hand’ between India and  China Sri Lanka Nepal Bhutan Q.5) ‘Inn Din massacre’ is associated with  Myanmar Sudan Hong Kong Venezuela To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

Jul 24, 2019 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 24th July 2019

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 24th July 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Measles-Rubella Vaccination Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – Health issue Key pointers: Measles-Rubella vaccination drive started in Rajasthan to cover 2.26 crore children up to 15 years of age. Measles and rubella are contagious viral infections preventable by vaccine and best known by its distinctive red rash. The drive helps in achieving the UN SDG target of reducing Child (under 5 years) Mortality rate to 25 or less per 1000 live births by 2030. Do you know? India accounted for 36% of deaths of the world’s children by measles. To achieve full immunization coverage for all children and pregnant women at a rapid pace, the Government of India launched “Mission Indradhanush” in December 2014. Under Mission Indradhanush vaccination is being provided against eight vaccine-preventable diseases nationally, i.e. Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus, Polio, Measles, severe form of Childhood Tuberculosis, Hepatitis B, meningitis & pneumonia caused by Haemophilus influenza type B; and against Rotavirus Diarrhea and Japanese Encephalitis in selected states and districts respectively Opposition to privatization of Ordinance Factory Part of: GS Mains II and III – Government schemes and policies; Defence In News: West Bengal CM has written to PM opposing government’s initiative to privatise Indian Ordnance Factory Pros of Privatization Privatisation will lead to increase in efficiency of the operations of factories It will help modernise the domestic weapon and ammunition manufacturing process This will encourage private sector participation in Defence industry (Make in India scheme) and helps spur jobs & investment Disinvestment in these firms will lead to revenue earnings for government Issues with Privatization Strategic sector such as defence equipment manufacturing should remain under the control of government in the interest of National Security and defence of country Ordnance Factory Board, with its 41 factories across India employs around 1.6 lakh officers. Their employment and pension aspects needs to be taken care of Do you know? Ordnance Factory board was founded in 1775 with its HQ in Kolkatta to make military weapons and ammunition It is under Ministry of Defence It is considered to be the world’s largest government set-up for manufacturing arms and ammunition. Water-grid project in Maratwada Part of: GS Prelims and Mains I and III – Geography; Water conservation In news: Maratwada region of Maharasthra Pic: https://skymetweather.com/content/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Maharashtra.jpg Context: Maratwada, has traditionally been a low-rainfall area primarily due because of its geography – lies in rain shadow region of western ghats The grid project aims to create an integrated piped network to supply water for drinking, industrial and agricultural purposes all through the year. The work would be taken up on hybrid annuity model, which involves an investment by private players also. Do you know ? During 2016 drought, a train named Jaldhoot supplied more than 70 lakh litres of water to Latur in Maratwada region Hybrid annuity means that the government makes an upfront of 40% of the project cost and pays a fixed annual installment(annuity) for certain years for operation and maintenance (reduces traffic risk), while 60% of project cost is borne private player. Government in process of finalising OTC drug policy Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – Health issue; Government schemes and policies In news: The practice of self-medication is rampant in India Over-the-counter (OTC) drugs are medicines sold directly to a consumer without a need of prescription from a healthcare professional In the absence of a legal framework, chemists are selling some commonly used ‘prescription only’ drugs like paracetamol as well as other drugs over the counter Thus, lack of well-defined regulation for OTC medicines is impacting patient safety Drugs that are known to have negligible side effects can be classified as OTC so that access to them becomes easy and wide. When drugs for common viral infections, sore throat, acidity, indigestion, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, injury, cuts, wounds, burns, acne etc are made available under OTC, people will get access to the right medication Concerns Rise of antibiotic resistance due to use of over-the-counter drugs An antibiotic is a drug meant to treat a bacterial infection. This will further strengthen the practice of self-medication Do you know? The Union health ministry’s Anti-Microbial Resistance awareness campaign urges people not to use medicines marked with a red vertical line, including antibiotics, without a doctor’s prescription – Red Line Campaign Miscellaneous: Growth Forecast reduced IMF cuts India’s growth forecast for 2019-20 from 7.3% to 7% The reduction is primarily due to weaker-than-expected outlook for domestic demand The growth engine of an economy is said to run on four wheels – Private consumption expenditure (domestic demand), private investment, government expenditure and exports World Economic Outlook report is released by IMF (MAINS FOCUS) NATIONAL/HEALTH ISSUE TOPIC: General studies 2  Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources Issues and policies related to health Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate Loosening strength in anti-AIDS march Context The commitment to end the AIDS pandemic by 2030 needs strong and fearless leadership Concerns The Joint UN programme on AIDS, commonly known as UNAIDS, is facing one of the worst challenges afflicting the global AIDS response Appointment a new executive director after the departure of Michel Sidibé in May 2019 on the recommendation of the programme. The commitment to end AIDS by 2030 is ambitious but not impossible to achieve because every year there are about 1.7 million new infections. About UNAIDS: UNAIDS is leading the global effort to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030 as part of the Sustainable Development Goals. It started operations in 1996 UNAIDS provides the strategic direction, advocacy, coordination and technical support needed to catalyse and connect leadership from governments, the private sector and communities to deliver life-saving HIV services. Achievements of UNAIDS: It has successfully mobilised world opinion to mount an exceptional response to an epidemic. The slashing of prices of AIDS drugs by Indian generics have brought treatment within the reach of many countries by the Creation of GFATM. Preventing mother-to-child transmission of HIV has become an achievable goal by 2020. Challenges to reach the goal to end AIDS pandemic by 2030: The organisation has started to falter in its strategy. Regions such as Eastern Europe and Central Asia and West Asia are nowhere near reaching the goal of ending AIDS. It is forgotten that AIDS affects the poor, the marginalised and criminalised communities in accessing the ‘test and treat’ programmes. Funding for non-governmental organisations and community-based organisations working on prevention has been gradually decreased. The weakening of country leadership of UNAIDS in many high-prevalence countries. Suggestions The strategy to end AIDS should go back to the World Health Organisation (WHO) where it originally belonged to some 25 years ago. And that the new executive director should be equipped with an exit strategy to wind up the organisation. The new executive director has to work relentlessly to place prevention of the epidemic and empowering communities at the centre of global response. The new executive director should strive for the strengthening of organisation presence at country level. Conclusion: The commitment to end AIDS by 2030 is ambitious but not impossible to achieve. We need to re-energise UNAIDS with a strong and fearless leadership from a person of high integrity and commitment along with a sincere effort to remove the deadwood from the organisation.  Connecting the dots: What is HIV and how is it a life threatening disease? How has India battled against HIV? Critically examine. Elaborate on the Policy actions initiated by the government w.r.t. HIV AIDS and the necessary concerns associated. Highlight the provisions of the recent legislation ‘AIDS affects the poor, the marginalised and criminalised communities’. Discuss the challenges and solutions with respect to the statement. EDUCATION TOPIC: General studies 2  Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Education How not to educate India? Context Draft National Education Policy ignores key issues of learning Draft National Education Policy: The draft of New National Education Policy has been recently submitted by the Committee led by the Chairman Dr. Kasturirangan on education policy. Need for DNEP The extant National Policy on Education, 1986 modified in 1992 required changes to meet the contemporary and futuristic needs of India's large youth population. A New Education Policy is designed to meet the changing dynamics of the requirements in terms of quality education, innovation and research. The policy aims at making India a knowledge superpower by equipping students with the necessary skills and knowledge. It also focuses on eliminating the shortage of manpower in science, technology, academics and industry. The Draft Policy is built on the foundational pillars of Access, Equity, Quality, Affordability and Accountability. Why we should know about DNEP? It has implications for India’s ability to reap its “demographic dividend”. Accelerated economic development is dependent upon youthful labour force, this can be achieved only by investments in human development, including education. Key changes proposed in DNEP The committee has proposed to rename the Ministry of Human Resource Development as Ministry of Education (MoE). Curriculum - In school education, a major reconfiguration of curricular and pedagogical structure was proposed. The policy calls for an Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) as an integral part of school education. A 5+3+3+4 curricular and pedagogical structure based on cognitive and socio-emotional developmental stages of children was proposed. RTE Act - The committee recommends Extension of Right to Education Act 2009 to cover children of ages 3 to 18 (currently, 6-14). The committee proposes for massive transformation in teacher education. Institution - A new apex body Rashtriya Shiksha Ayog is proposed. The National Research Foundation, an apex body, is proposed for creating a strong research culture National Higher Education Regulatory Authority will be the only regulator for all higher education including professional education UGC is to be transformed to Higher Education Grants Commission (HEGC). The policy proposes to create an accreditation eco-system led by a revamped NAAC (National Assessment and Accreditation Council). Language - Promotion of Indian and classical languages and setting up three new National Institutes for Pali, Persian and Prakrit were proposed. Indian Institute of Translation and Interpretation (IITI) has been recommended. The policy called for the proper implementation of the three-language formula (dating back to 1968) in schools across the country. Accordingly, students in Hindi-speaking states should learn a modern Indian language, apart from Hindi and English. Issues not addressed in DNEP Five issues that the draft must consider incorporating: 1. Financing of education This report lost an opportunity to discuss the advantages of public investments in elementary and high school education that generate “public good”, as against the university-level policy focus on promoting “private good 2. Privatisation- Reckless and unregulated private schools and colleges, besides compromising on quality, will only increase (not reduce) social inequalities in India.. 3. Technology (ICT) as a leveler and equity enhancer 4. English as a medium of instruction This issue was discussed that too mostly by undermining the role and importance of the English language. 5. The state’s responsibility in educating the masses. What can be done? Education reform must focus on certain fundamental principles like personalised learning, literacy and numeracy, scientific temper that promotes competition and collaboration Technological platforms must be immediately harnessed to impart equitable access at primary, elementary and high school levels and to increase the quality of education Regular assessment of Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan. A new “public-private-partnership” model will succeed in achieving the objectives of quality, affordability and equality of access. It should emphasise enough the role and importance of state governments in imparting education to the masses. Conclusion: Education is a powerful instrument for reducing poverty and inequality; and it enhances competitiveness in the global economy. Ensuring access to quality education for all is central to the economic and social development of India, according to the World Bank. Connecting the dots: Discuss unique features of the draft National Education Policy, 2019. Also comment on the challenges in implementation of suggested recommendations? Education is a powerful instrument for reducing poverty and inequality- Analyse. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Note:  Featured Comments and comments Up-voted by IASbaba are the “correct answers”. IASbaba App users – Team IASbaba will provide correct answers in comment section. Kindly refer to it and update your answers. Q.1) Measles and Rubella diseases are caused due to Bacteria Virus Fungus Protozoan parasite Plasmodium. Q.2) Ordnance Factory board comes under which ministry Ministry of Heavy industries Department of Border Management, Ministry of Home Affairs Ministry of Defence Prime Minister’s Office Q.3) Redline campaign is associated with Following of Traffic signals Railway crossing and signal Anti-microbial resistance HIV/Aids prevention and awareness Q.4) World Economic Outlook report is released by IMF World Bank Federal Bank of USA World Economic Forum Q.5) Hybrid Annuity Model is a mix of which of the PPP models EPC – Engineering Procurement and Construction BOT – Build Operate Transfer DBFO – Design Build Finance Operate BOO – Build Own Operate Select the correct answer from codes given below 1 and 2 only 1,2 and 3 Only 1 and 3 only 1 and 4 only MUST READ A bridge across the India-Pakistan abyss The Hindu Making the water-guzzling thermal plants accountable The Hindu The complexities of Naga identity The Hindu The change triangle Indian Express  India’s trajectory: An innovation powerhouse Financial Express Agricultural growth needs warehousing reforms Financial Express

Jul 24, 2019 AIR

All India Radio (AIR) IAS UPSC - CHANDRAYAAN-2: India's Historic Feat at Moon

CHANDRAYAAN-2: India's Historic Feat at Moon ARCHIVES Search 22nd July, 2019 Spotlight here: http://www.newsonair.com/Main_Audio_Bulletins_Search.aspx       TOPIC: General Studies III Science and Technology Space Missions Achievements of India In News: India has successfully launched the Chandrayaan-2 mission. Chandrayaan 2 is an Indian lunar mission that will boldly go where no country has ever gone before — the Moon’s South Polar Region. Through this effort, the aim is to improve our understanding of the Moon — discoveries that will benefit India and humanity as a whole. These insights and experiences aim at a paradigm shift in how lunar expeditions are approached for years to come — propelling further voyages into the farthest frontiers. Key Facts: 1st space mission to conduct a soft landing on the Moon's south polar region 1st Indian expedition to attempt a soft landing on the lunar surface with home-grown technology It is India’s first interplanetary mission to be steered by two women: project director M Vanitha and mission director Ritu Karidhal. 1st Indian mission to explore the lunar terrain with home-grown technology 4th country ever to soft land on the lunar surface Why are we going to the Moon? The Moon is the closest cosmic body at which space discovery can be attempted and documented. It is also a promising test bed to demonstrate technologies required for deep-space missions. Chandrayaan 2 attempts to foster a new age of discovery, increase our understanding of space, stimulate the advancement of technology, promote global alliances, and inspire a future generation of explorers and scientists. What are the scientific objectives of Chandrayaan 2? Why explore the lunar South Pole? The Moon provides us the best linkage to Earth’s early history and an undisturbed record of the nascent Solar System environment. While a few mature models do exist, the Moon's origin still needs further explanations. Extensive mapping of the lunar surface will aid us in studying variations in its composition — an essential piece of information in tracing the Moon's origin and evolution. Evidence of water molecules — discovered by Chandrayaan 1 — and the extent of its distribution on the lunar surface and sub-surface also require further studies. This area is of special interest because it receives very little sunlight. Some parts remain permanently in the shade, due to the tilt of the moon’s axis. There are giant craters down there creating what are called cold traps: regions cold enough to freeze not just water but also a range of volatile compounds. The temperature of the lunar cold traps can go as low as minus 200 degrees Celsius – so cold that most gases freeze. The compounds in those cold traps have been possibly frozen for as many as 3 billion years and could contain a record of the early Solar System. They could confirm the Giant Impact Hypothesis: that the moon was formed when, 4.4 billion years ago, an object the size of a planet collided with the earth.  Chandrayaan 2 will use the Vikram lander and Pragyan rover to attempt a soft landing in a high plain between two craters — Manzinus C and Simpelius N — at a latitude of about 70° south. The region receives very little light, which makes the charging of solar panels difficult, meaning that the lander and rover could run out of power. A different side to the Achievement –  Statistics about women scientists in India and the world: Women make up only 28.8 per cent of those employed in scientific research and development across the world.
 They are less likely to enter and more likely to leave careers in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics).
 They are poorly represented in science academies — there are only 12 per cent female members in 69 science academies across the world.
 Only 17 women have been awarded a Nobel Prize in the three science categories since the award’s inception in 1901. There is also a major dearth of women in top leadership positions in scientific establishments, research institutions and higher decision-making committees. No woman for instance, has ever occupied the top rank at ISRO since its inception on August 15, 1969. The appointment of Karidhal as mission director of Chandrayaan-2 (with Vanitha M as project director) heralds a new era in the history of women scientists in the country and the world. For every girl who continues to be told ‘science is not for girls’ or that a career in science would impact family and mommy-track goals, here is a woman icon who has done it all. And, reached the very top — balancing work and family with equal ease and efficiency. What next: ISRO’s next priority is the $1.4 billion Gaganyaan mission, which aims to put three Indian “gaganauts” — at least one of which will be a woman — into orbit.

Jul 23, 2019 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 23rd July 2019

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 23rd July 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Chandrayana-2 Part of: GS Prelims and Main GS Paper III- Science and Technology Key PT Pointers: Chandrayaan-1 (only Orbiter) launched in 2008 was ISRO’s first mission to the moon Chandrayaan-2 consists of an Orbiter, Lander (named as Vikram) and Rover (named as Pragyan), all equipped with scientific instruments to study the moon The lander and rover are designed to work for only 14 days(1 lunar day), while orbiter will remain in orbit for a year With Chandrayaan-2, India will become only the fourth country in the world to land a spacecraft on the moon. Chandrayaan-2 will make a landing at a site near the South pole of the moon, where no earlier mission has gone, The south pole of the moon holds the possibility of the presence of water It is also supposed to have ancient rocks and craters that can offer indications of history of moon, and also contain clues to the fossil records of early solar system. Cryptocurrencies to be banned Part of: GS Prelims and Main GS Paper III- Science and Technology Key Pointers: Subhash Chandra Garg Committee was constituted on November 2, 2017 to look into the legality of cryptocurrencies and blockchain. The report says cryptocurrencies do not have any intrinsic value of their own and lack any of the attributes of a currency. They neither act as a store of value nor are they a medium of exchange in themselves The committee thus recommended that private cryptocurrencies be banned in India. It has, however, said the government should keep an open mind on the potential issuance of cryptocurrencies by the Reserve Bank of India. Conservation efforts to revive gharial population Part of: GS Prelims and Main GS Paper III- Environment and Conservation In news: Five gharials, were bred at the Nandankanan Zoological Park, Odisha and released into into the Satkosia gorge of Mahanadi. The gharials are individually marked and fitted with radio transmitters for future identification and tracking of their migration route Gharials are “critically endangered” species of crocodile. Odisha is the only State in India having all three species — gharial, mugger and saltwater crocodile. (MAINS FOCUS) SOCIAL JUSTICE/GOVERNANCE TOPIC: General studies 2  Governance and related issues 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. An unbalanced view of the technical interventions in MGNREGA Context: Economic Survey has presented an unbalanced view of the technical interventions in MGNREGA The Survey draws heavily from the Indian School of Business’s working paper titled “A Friend Indeed: Does The Use of Digital Identity Make Welfare Programs Truly Counter-Cyclical?” Concerns: Economic survey presents a skewed and unbalanced view of the programme’s technical interventions instead of taking a comprehensive view of the implementation. The Survey completely ignores numerous instances where technology has resulted in violation of workers’ rights under the MGNREGA. About MNREGA The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, earlier known as the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act was passed on 7th September 2005 to augment employment generation and social security in India. It covers all districts of India except the ones with 100% urban population. “Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act”, MGNREGA), is an Indian labour law and social security measure that aims to guarantee the “Right to Work”. MGNREGA History: In 1991, the P.V Narashima Rao government proposed a pilot scheme for generating employment in rural areas with the following goals: Employment Generation for agricultural labour during the lean season. Infrastructure Development Enhanced Food Security This scheme was called the Employment Assurance Scheme which later evolved into the MGNREGA after the merger with the Food for Work Programme in the early 2000s. Objectives of MGNREGA: The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) has the following objectives: MGNREGA guarantee “Right To Work” for at least one member of family for 100 days annually, 150 days for SC/STs during non-agricultural seasons . Employment provided within 15 days of enrollment , failing to which the government will give unemployment wages to work-seekers Increase economic security Decrease migration of labour from rural to urban areas Changes in MNREGA structure By 2009-10, MGNREGA wages were only 90% of market wages for males, but 26% higher than market wages for females. By 2011-12, they were lower than market wages for both category of workers, but for females, they were close to market levels. The 2017-18 PLFS estimates show that private market wages for males were higher than MGNREGA wages by 74%, and female market wages were higher than MGNREGA wages by 21%. Clearly, no male worker is going to demand MGNREGA work when he can get a much higher daily wage with the same effort . However, women continue to demand and work under MGNREGA, though market wages are higher, because of non-availability of work and discrimination as well as exclusion from the private labour market. Six reasons why the Economic Survey’s presentation of the MGNREGA is misleading 1. Lack of adequate financial allocation, pending liabilities and low wages. 20% of the Budget allocation in each of the last five years is of pending wage liabilities from previous years MGNREGA wages in many States are about 40% lower than the Ministry of Labour’s national minimum wage. Instead of sufficiently funding MGNREGA, a legal right, in times of severe drought, there is disproportionate attention by the government 2. Misrepresentation of continuous technological interventions in the MGNREGA since its inception Electronic funds transfer started as far back as in 2011 through the Electronic Fund Management System (eFMS), which became symbolic of the Direct Benefit Transfers (DBT).  In 2016 National Electronic Fund Management System (N-eFMS) has been The Survey uses the term “ALP” for Aadhaar-linked payments and conflates it with the DBT . The merging of two terms prevents one from making an honest assessment on the effect that different interventions have had. 3. The Survey makes strong assertions that timely payment of wages have positively impacted worker participation. The Survey makes claims on reduction in payment delays due to the introduction of Aadhaar Wage payments to MGNREGA workers happen in two stages First stage: it is the time taken by the blocks to generate the electronic Funds Transfer Orders (FTO) and send it digitally to the Central government. Second stage: it is the time taken by the Central government to process these FTOs and transfer wages to workers’ accounts. Delays in the first stage have reduced, those in the second stage continue to be unacceptably high(takes more than 50 days). 4. An increase in demand for and supply of work in drought-affected areas to Aadhaar ignoring other crucial factors. Judicial-administrative directives, which came into effect after Aadhaar was introduced, played an important role in the increase in the MGNREGA work uptake in drought areas. Examples: In Rajasthan- 67% increase in employment generated and a record number of households having completed 100 days of work under the MGNREGA as a part of ‘work demand cmapaign’ In Karnataka- There is a three-fold increase in employment generation in Karnataka in 2019 compared to 2018. 5. The Survey rightfully acknowledges the nature of positive targeting of the MGNREGA — with women, Dalits and Adivasis benefitting the most — it wrongfully attributes it wholly to the introduction of Aadhaar. 6. Aadhaar-linked payments identifying “ghost beneficiaries” is exaggerated as an RTI query showed that they accounted for only about 1.4% of total households in 2016-17. Conclusion Overlooking the fundamental issues, cherry-picking studies and using flawed analyses to justify technocracy is an example of ethical paralysis. The Economic Survey harps about an ill-designed technological pipeline, the fact is that a landmark labour programme is being put on a ventilator. Connecting the dots: “Technology is neither good nor bad; nor is it neutral” Elucidate? In the Light of continuation of MNREGA in the present year. Discuss its achievements and limitations MNREGA- is a great example of proactive disclosure of information through its Management Information System (MIS). Discuss MNREGA, despite of all the limitations and failure, it is in agreement with sustainable development. Elucidate. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Note:  Featured Comments and comments Up-voted by IASbaba are the “correct answers”. IASbaba App users – Team IASbaba will provide correct answers in comment section. Kindly refer to it and update your answers. Q.1) Consider the following statements about Chandrayana -2 It is being launched from Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, Kerala It is launched by GSLV MK-III, which is also its first operational flight China’s Chang’e 4 was the first space craft to achieve soft landing on the far side of the moon Which of the following statements is/are correct? 1 and 2only 2 and 3 only 1 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.2) Consider the following statements about Bhitarkanika National Park It is a national park located in Kendrapara district of Odisha The sanctuary is the second largest mangrove ecosystem in India It is said to house 70% of the country’s estuarine or saltwater crocodiles Which of the following statements is/are correct? 1 and 2only 2 and 3 only 1 and 3 only 1,2 and 3 Q.3) Consider the following statements about Cyroptocurrency Cryptocurrencies use decentralized technology to let users make secure payments and store money without the need to use their name or go through a bank. They run on a distributed public ledger called blockchain, which is a record of all transactions updated and held by currency holders. Google has unveiled its own cryptocurrency named “Libra” Which of the following statements is/are correct? 1 and 2 only 2 and 3 only 1 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 MUST READ The tremor of unwelcome amendments to the RTI Act The Hindu What does it mean to oppose Brahmanism? The Hindu  Chandrayaan-2: Soaring to the moon The Hindu Moon-bound again Indian Express Raja Mandala: The moon and the law Indian Express

Jul 23, 2019 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 32

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 32 Archives Q.1) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Colistin’ It is an antibiotic for therapeutic purpose in veterinary. One of the reasons for antibiotic resistance in India is due to unwanted use of Colistin in poultry industry. Select the correct statements  1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) Which of the following statements is/are correct with respect to ‘Chandipura Virus’  It was first reported from a forest in Karnataka It is associated with an encephalitic illness in humans Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘PENCIL Portal’ It ensures smooth implementation of the National Child Labour Project (NCLP) Scheme It aims at involving Centre, State, District, civil society and the general public in achieving the target of child labour free society. Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Interferometer’ It is one leading method for the direct detection of gravitational waves. It works by merging two or more sources of light to create an interference pattern, which can be measured and analysed. Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.5) Service voter is a voter having service qualification. According to the provisions of Representation of People Act, 1950, service qualification means – Being a member of the armed Forces of the Union Being a member of an Armed Police Force of a State, and serving outside that state Being a person who is employed under the Government of India, in a post outside India Select the correct statements 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

Jul 23, 2019 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 22nd July 2019

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 22nd July 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Vaccination for rotavirus Part of: Main GS Paper II- Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population Around 20 lakh children in the Maharashtra State will be vaccinated against rotavirus. Annually, 3.34 lakh children succumb to diarrhoeal diseases in India, of which close to one lakh die of rotavirus diarrhoea. Vaccination is a step towards achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goal target of reducing Child (under 5 years) Mortality rate to 25 or less per 1000 live births by 2030. Do you know? India’s Under Five Mortality (U5MR) declined from 125 per 1,000 live births in 1990 to 43 per 1,000 live births in 2015. In 2016, India's infant (0-1 year) mortality rate was 44 per 1,000 live births. To achieve full immunization coverage for all children and pregnant women at a rapid pace, the Government of India launched “Mission Indradhanush” in December 2014. Under Mission Indradhanush vaccination is being provided against eight vaccine-preventable diseases nationally, i.e. Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus, Polio, Measles, severe form of Childhood Tuberculosis, Hepatitis B, meningitis & pneumonia caused by Haemophilus influenza type B; and against Rotavirus Diarrhea and Japanese Encephalitis in selected states and districts respectively Delhi takes major share in electoral bonds Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – Polity; Governance issues 80.6% of the electoral bonds bought last year (₹5,851.41 crore) were redeemed in New Delhi, where the headquarters of major parties are located. This shows that the scheme is biased against regional parties. Additional concerns raised with respect to Electoral bonds scheme Non transparent - anonymity-based funding scheme as neither the donor discloses to which party it has donated nor the political party discloses the source of bond. It opens up the possibility of black money being and foreign capital donated to parties through shell companies. May lead to Corporate capture of Politics: scheme did away with the statutory limit on corporate donations to parties (7.5% of three years’ net profits) Favours the ruling party: as it alone is in a position to identify the donors and, therefore, well placed to misuse such information. (Presently electoral Bonds are only available through Government owned SBI) May pose a formidable entry barrier to new contenders in the political arena as this scheme is available only to parties that won 1% of the votes in the preceding election  Do you know? The below reports have recommended State funding of elections to establish a fair playing field for parties with less money. Indrajit Gupta Committee on State Funding of Elections (1998) Law Commission Report on Reform of the Electoral Laws (1999) National Commission to Review the Working of the Constitution (2001) Second Administrative Reforms Commission (2008) DEFXPO – India’s mega Defence exhibition Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III - Defence 11th Defexpo will be held in 2020 at Lucknow. It is held biennially, the previous two editions were held at Chennai (2018) and Goa(2016) It helps to showcase India’s defence manufacturing capabilities, promote export of India’s defence systems and attracts foreign players to invest in India. India is developing two defence industrial production corridors to promote the defence sector. One is Tamil Nadu (linking Chennai and Bengaluru) and the other in Uttar Pradesh Revamp of Army Head Quarters (AHQ) Part of: Main GS Paper III – Various Security forces and agencies and their mandate Army has initiated the process of reforming its Head quarter structure, whose objective is to: Ensure holistic integration of all divisions of army Enhance the operational and functional efficiency Optimise budget expenditure, Facilitate force modernisation and Address aspirations of the army personnel. (MAINS FOCUS) POLITY/GOVERNANCE TOPIC: General studies 2 Indian Constitution—Historical Underpinnings, Evolution, Features, Amendments, Significant Provisions and Basic Structure. Important Aspects of Governance, Transparency and Accountability, E-governance- applications, models, successes, limitations, and potential; Citizens Charters, Transparency & Accountability and institutional and other measures.  The Right to information (Amendment) Bill, 2019 Context The government introduced in Loksabha the Right to Information (Amendment) Bill, 2019, which proposes to give the Centre the powers to set the salaries and service conditions of Information Commissioners at central as well as state levels. Concerns: Amendments have been proposed since 2006, just six months after the law was implemented and many times thereafter. The deliberate dismantling of this architecture empowers the Central government to unilaterally decide the tenure, salary, allowances and other terms of service of Information Commissioners, both at the Centre and the States About Right to Information Act: Article 19(1) of the Indian Constitution specifies that the Right to Information (RTI) is a part of the fundamental rights. It says that every citizen has freedom of speech and expression. In 1976, in the Raj Narain vs the State of UP, it was held by the Supreme Court that people cannot speak unless they know. Hence the Right to Information is embedded in Article 19 RTI Act provides machinery for exercising this fundamental right. As per the RTI Act 2005, every citizen has the right to receive a timely response from the government for any information that is sought by them with respect to the functioning of the government. An RTI portal is created by the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions in order to facilitate the process of RTI. Besides access to information related to RTI, published disclosures by various public authorities under the state and the central governments, it acts as a gateway for obtaining information on the details of first Appellate Authorities, Principle Information Officers etc The basic objectives of RTI is Empowerment of the citizens Promotion of transparency and accountability in the functioning of the government Prevention and elimination of corruption Making the democracy work FOR the people in its real sense. Under the RTI, every citizen is empowered to: Seek information / ask questions to the government Request for copies of government documents Inspect government documents and works Request for samples of materials of any government work Importance of RTI: The RTI has been used brilliantly and persistently to ask a million questions across the spectrum — from the village ration shop, the Reserve Bank of India, the Finance Ministry, on demonetisation, non-performing assets, the Rafale fighter aircraft deal, electoral bonds, unemployment figures, the appointment of the Central Vigilance Commissioner (CVC), Election Commissioners, and the (non)-appointment of the Information Commissioners themselves. The information related to decision-making at the highest level has in most cases eventually been accessed because of the independence and high status of the Information Commission. The RTI movement has struggled to access information and through it, a share of governance and democratic power. The Indian RTI law has been a breakthrough in creating mechanisms and platforms for the practice of continual public vigilance that are fundamental to democratic citizenship. Recent moves of RTI: All the provisions related to appointment were carefully examined by a parliamentary standing committee and the law was passed unanimously. Section 13 states that salaries, allowances and other terms of service of “the Chief Information Commissioner shall be the same as that of the Chief Election Commissioner”, and those of an Information Commissioner “shall be the same as that of an Election Commissioner”. The Bill amends Sections 13 and 16 of the Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005. Section 13 of the original Act sets the term of the central Chief Information Commissioner and Information Commissioners at five years (or until the age of 65, whichever is earlier). Section 16 of the original Act deals with state-level Chief Information Commissioners and Information Commissioners. It sets the term for state-level CICs and ICs at five years (or 65 years of age, whichever is earlier). It was on the recommendation of the parliamentary standing committee that the Information Commissioner and CIC were made on a par with the Election Commissioner and the CEC, respectively. The mandatory pre-legislative consultative policy of the government has been ignored. Major issues: The separation of powers is a concept which underscores this independence and is vital to our democratic checks and balances. When power is centralised and the freedom of expression threatened no matter what the context, democracy is definitely in serious danger. The Commission which is vested by law with status, independence and authority, will now function like a department of the Central government, and be subject to the same hierarchy and demand for deferential respect. Apart from Section 13 which deals with the terms and conditions for the Central information Commission, in amending Section 16, the Central government will also control through rules, the terms and conditions of appointment of Commissioners in the States. This is an assault on the idea of federalism. The RTI community is worried. But the sword of Damocles is double-edged. It is an idiom originally used to define the hidden insecurity of an autocrat. Questions are threats to unaccountable power. Conclusion: The RTI has unshackled millions of users who will continue to use this democratic right creatively and to dismantle exclusive power. The RTI has been and will be used to withstand attacks on itself and strengthen the movement for transparency and accountability in India. The RTI has resulted in a fundamental shift — empowering a citizen’s access to power and decision-making. It has been a lifeline for many of the 40 to 60 lakh ordinary users, many of them for survival. Connecting the dots: Has RTI been successful in bringing transparency into governance? Critically evaluate. Don’t you think Right to Information (RTI) stifles decision making? Critically examine. The RTI in its current form and shape requires certain changes to make it more effective. Do you agree? Substantiate. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Note:  Featured Comments and comments Up-voted by IASbaba are the “correct answers”. IASbaba App users – Team IASbaba will provide correct answers in comment section. Kindly refer to it and update your answers. Q.1) Consider the following statements about Mission Indhradhanush Its goal is to ensure full immunization with all available vaccines for children up to two years of age and pregnant women It is being implemented by Ministry of Women and Child development Which of the following statements is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) Consider the following statements about Electoral Bonds It can be purchased only from Domestic Systemically Important Banks (D-SIBs) Interest will be given by the banks on these bonds. Electoral bonds will be valid till next Lok Sabha elections from the date of purchase. Which of the following statements is/are not correct? 1 and 2 only 2 and 3 only 1 and 3 only 1,2 and 3 Q.3) Indrajit Gupta committee has given its report regarding More devolution of powers to Panchayat Raj Institutions State funding of elections Army restructuring Financial Inclusion Q.4) Department of Border Management comes under which ministry? Ministry of Defence Ministry of Home Affairs Prime Ministers office Ministry of External Affairs Q.5) Defence Industrial Corridors are coming up at which state(s)? Uttar Pradesh Tamil Nadu Gujarat Andhra Pradesh Select the correct answer from the code given below: 1 and 2 Only 1,2 and 3 Only 2 and 3 only 1,2,3 and 4 MUST READ   Smoking e-cigarettes is more injurious to health The Hindu  Six reasons why the Economic Survey’s presentation of MGNREGA is misleading The Hindu  Make domestic laws ‘trade-smart”to begin with, and not as an afterthought Financial Express  How artificial intelligence can redefine govt services Financial Express  Explained: Economics of GM crops and what authorities need to know Financial Express

Jul 22, 2019 RSTV Video

RSTV IAS UPSC – Single Tribunal for River Water Disputes

Single Tribunal for River Water Disputes Archives TOPIC: General Studies 2 Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure, devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein. Separation of powers between various organs dispute redressal mechanisms and institutions. Inter-State Water Dispute In News: Aiming for a speedy resolution of interstate water disputes, the Union Cabinet approved a legislative proposal seeking to establish a single tribunal with mandate to award verdict within two years. The proposed tribunal could have benches in states. The Bill seeks to amend the Inter State River Water Disputes Act, 1956 to streamline the adjudication of inter-state river water disputes. A key feature of the bill is the constitution of a single tribunal with different Benches, and the setting of strict timelines for adjudication. India has seen protracted river water sharing disputes in recent years. Depleting groundwater, drying rivers and increasing demand for water have led to long legal wrangles between warring states. But very soon, India might have a single national tribunal — the Inter-State River Water Disputes Tribunal — to arbitrate inter-state water disputes. Its recommendations will be binding on the competing parties.   Over the years, there have been several tribunals hearing disputes between states on river water sharing, but they have not been effective in resolving disputes in a time-bound manner. While there are suggestions for reconsidering and reviewing the structuring and functioning of the tribunals, there is also a need to look for an alternative mechanism, based on environmental thinking, to resolve such disputes effectively, amicably and sustainably.  Issues with the Inter State River Water Dispute Act, 1956 Under the present Act, a separate Tribunal has to be established for each dispute. There are eight inter-state water dispute tribunals, including the Ravi and Beas Waters Tribunal and Krishna River Water Dispute Tribunal. Currently there is no time limit for adjudication or publication of reports. Only three of the eight tribunals have actually given awards accepted by the states. Tribunals like those on the Cauvery and Ravi Beas have been in existence for over 26 and 30 years respectively without any award. There is no upper age limit for the chairman or the members. The disputes’ resolution generally has not been effective- Disputes have recurred, there have been long delays in adjudication and States have not complied with verdicts of tribunals. Inter-State River Water Disputes (Amendment) Bill, 2019  The Inter-State River Water Disputes (Amendment) Bill, 2019 for adjudication of disputes relating to water of inter-State rivers and river valley thereof would pave way for speedy resolutions of disputes.  Timeline & Dispute Resolution Committee The single tribunal will have to award verdict in two years’ time. The Bill also proposes a Dispute Resolution Committee set up by the Central Government for amicably resolving inter-State water disputes within 18 months.  Any dispute that cannot be settled by negotiations would be referred to the tribunal for its adjudication.  The dispute so referred to the tribunal shall be assigned by the chairperson of the tribunal to a Bench of the tribunal for adjudication.  The Bill can also affect the composition of the members of various tribunals, and has a provision to have a technical expert as the head of the tribunal. Currently all tribunals are staffed by members of the judiciary, nominated by the Chief Justice. Need for a Single Tribunal This would replace multiple tribunals currently existing for a number of disputes.  The single tribunal will subsume the existing nine tribunals. As of now, it takes between 17 and 27 years for a tribunal to resolve a dispute.  The standalone tribunal so envisaged will have a permanent establishment and permanent office space and infrastructure so as to obviate with the need to set up a separate Tribunal for each water dispute, a time consuming process. Big Questions How does the bill propose to address the challenge of implementing the tribunal’s awards?  The Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal Award, given in 2007, lamented about legal ambiguities which prevented it from recommending an institutional mechanism to implement its award. These ambiguities will persist even after the amendments. The power to devise such mechanisms is with the Centre. But the government is ill-equipped to offer competent and resilient mechanisms. The River Boards Act, 1956, the most potent law available for the purpose — drawn under Entry 56 of the Union List for regulating and developing interstate rivers — has become a dead letter. Conflicts arise when the instruments and institutions for cooperation fail. The government will do well to bring in a comprehensive legislation in place of the River Boards Act, 1956, to enable inter-state river water cooperation and collaboration. Absence of an effective implementation mechanism.  Even though the ISRWDT is a permanent avenue, there is nothing that prevents the inevitable escalation of disputes. Often, states defy tribunals’ directives and disregarding awards? The bill offers little to check these tendencies. The Supreme Court, too, has been amenable to Special Leave Petitions which then lead to extended litigation in the apex court. All this defeats the basic purpose of the reforms — to expedite resolution of river water disputes. Note: Parliament has enacted two laws under Article 262 River Board Act, 1956: The purpose of this Act was to enable the Union Government to create Boards for Interstate Rivers and river valleys in consultation with State Governments. The objective of Boards is to advise on the inter-state basin to prepare development scheme and to prevent the emergence of conflicts. Note: Till date, no river board as per above Act has been created. Inter-State Water Dispute Act, 1956: It provides the legal framework to address inter-sate water disputes. In case, if a particular state or states approach to Union Government for the constitution of the tribunal, Central Government should try to resolve the matter by consultation among the aggrieved states. In case, if it does not work, then it may constitute the tribunal. The Supreme Court and other courts do not have jurisdiction over such disputes — they can interpret verdicts of tribunals. Connecting the Dots: Can the setting up of a single tribunal help in resolving river water sharing issues? Discuss. Inter-state river water disputes have remained a contentious issue post-independence. Can you suggest few measures to address those?

Jul 22, 2019 PIB

Press Information Bureau (PIB) IAS UPSC – 15th July to 20th July – 2019

Press Information Bureau (PIB) IAS UPSC – 15th  to 20th July – 2019 ARCHIVES GS-2 Lok Sabha passes The Protection of Human Rights (Amendment) Bill, 2019 (Topic: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation) The Protection of Human Rights (Amendment) Bill, 2019, inter alia, provides That a person who has been a Judge of the Supreme Court is also made eligible to be appointed as Chairperson of the Commission in addition to the person who has been the Chief Justice of India; To increase the Members of the Commission from two to three of which, one shall be a woman; To include Chairperson of the National Commission for Backward Classes, Chairperson of the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights and the Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities as deemed Members of the Commission; To reduce the term of the Chairperson and Members of the Commission and the State Commissions from five to three years and shall be eligible for re-appointment; To provide that a person who has been a Judge of a High Court is also made eligible to be appointed as Chairperson of the State Commission in addition to the person who has been the Chief Justice of the High Court; and, To confer upon State Commissions, the functions relating to human rights being discharged by the Union territories, other than the Union territory of Delhi, which will be dealt with by the Commission The Right to Information (Amendment) Bill, 2019 introduced in Lok Sabha (Topic: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation) The Right to Information (Amendment) Bill, 2019 that amends the Right to Information Act, 2005 was introduced in Lok Sabha today. What does the RTI Act do?   Under the RTI Act, 2005, Public Authorities are required to make disclosures on various aspects of their structure and functioning.  This includes: (i) disclosure on their organisation, functions, and structure, (ii) powers and duties of its officers and employees, and (iii) financial information.  The intent of such suo moto disclosures is that the public should need minimum recourse through the Act to obtain such information.  If such information is not made available, citizens have the right to request for it from the Authorities.  This may include information in the form of documents, files, or electronic records under the control of the Public Authority.  The intent behind the enactment of the Act is to promote transparency and accountability in the working of Public Authorities.   Who is included in the ambit of ‘Public Authorities’? ‘Public Authorities’ include bodies of self-government established under the Constitution, or under any law or government notification.  For instance, these include Ministries, public sector undertakings, and regulators.  It also includes any entities owned, controlled or substantially financed and non-government organizations substantially financed directly or indirectly by funds provided by the government.  How is the right to information enforced under the Act? The Act has established a three tier structure for enforcing the right to information guaranteed under the Act. Public Authorities designate some of their officers as Public Information Officers.  The first request for information goes to Central/State Assistant Public Information Officer and Central/State Public Information Officer, designated by the Public Authorities. These Officers are required to provide information to an RTI applicant within 30 days of the request.  Appeals from their decisions go to an Appellate Authority.  Appeals against the order of the Appellate Authority go to the State Information Commission or the Central Information Commission.  These Information Commissions consists of a Chief Information Commissioner, and up to 10 Information Commissioners.   What does the Right to Information (Amendment) Bill, 2019 propose? The Bill changes the terms and conditions of service of the CIC and Information Commissioners at the centre and in states Comparison of the provisions of the Right to Information Act, 2005 and the Right to Information (Amendment) Bill, 2019 Provision RTI Act, 2005 RTI (Amendment) Bill, 2019 Term The Chief Information Commissioner (CIC) and Information Commissioners (ICs) (at the central and state level) will hold office for a term of five years.  The Bill removes this provision and states that the central government will notify the term of office for the CIC and the ICs. Quantum of Salary The salary of the CIC and ICs (at the central level) will be equivalent to the salary paid to the Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissioners, respectively.  Similarly, the salary of the CIC and ICs (at the state level) will be equivalent to the salary paid to the Election Commissioners and the Chief Secretary to the state government, respectively.   The Bill removes these provisions and states that the salaries, allowances, and other terms and conditions of service of the central and state CIC and ICs will be determined by the central government.   Deductions in Salary The Act states that at the time of the appointment of the CIC and ICs (at the central and state level), if they are receiving pension or any other retirement benefits for previous government service, their salaries will be reduced by an amount equal to the pension.  Previous government service includes service under: (i) the central government, (ii) state government, (iii) corporation established under a central or state law, and (iv) company owned or controlled by the central or state government. The Bill removes these provisions.   Sources: Right to Information Act, 2005; Right to Information (Amendment) Bill, 2019; PRS. Policy for Digital Economy (Topic: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation) The Government has recently introduced National Policy on Electronics (NPE) and National Policy on Software Products (NPSP) in 2019 for the growing digital economy.  A draft National e-Commerce policy has been prepared and placed for comments in public domain. The draft National e-Commerce policy has been prepared to create a facilitative regulatory environment for growth of e-commerce sector in India and to leverage access to data such that data of Indians can be used for the growth of digital economy in India. The policy establishes strategies which aim to – Empower domestic entrepreneurs and encourage Make in India Safeguard interests of the consumers Ensure creation of jobs in the digital sphere in the times to come Promote domestic research and development in digital innovation Prevent misuse of data while maintaining the spirit of existing regulations The Government had constituted a committee of expert on data protection, chaired by Justice (Retd) B.N. Srikrishna, Supreme Court of India, to study various issues relating to data protection and come out with the Data Protection Bill.  The Srikrishna committee has brought out a draft Personal Data Protection Bill (PDPB).  The framework seeks to put in place a culture of privacy by design and promoting concepts such as consent framework, purpose limitation, storage limitation, and data minimization among various other privacy-oriented concepts.  Wide-ranging consultations have been conducted on the recommendations of the committee with a view to finalizing the draft legislation. Launch of the Broadband Readiness Index for Indian States and Union Territories (2019-2022) (Topic: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation) By: The Department of Telecom (DoT) and the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER) Why: The National Digital Communication Policy (NDCP) 2018 acknowledged the need for building a robust digital communications infrastructure leveraging existing assets of the broadcasting and power sectors including collaborative models involving state, local bodies and the private sector. Accordingly, the policy recommended that a BRI for States and UTs be developed to attract investments and address Right of Way(RoW) challenges across India. This index will appraise the condition of the underlying digital infrastructure and related factors at the State/UT level. Such an exercise will provide useful insights into strategic choices made by States for investment allocations in ICT programmes.  In the spirit of competitive federalism, the index will encourage states to cross learn and jointly participate in achieving the overall objective of digital inclusion and development in India.  The framework will not only evaluate a state’s relative development but will also allow for better understanding of a state’s strengths and weaknesses that can feed into evidence-based policy making. Digitisation of AYUSH (Topic:  Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation) Ministry of AYUSH has conceptualized AYUSH GRID Project for digitising AYUSH healthcare delivery at all levels. The AYUSH Grid Project is the proposed IT backbone for the entire AYUSH sector covering the healthcare systems Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sowa Rigpa and Homoeopathy. AYUSH Grid is envisaged as an omnibus digital eco- system that would lead to all round development of the AYUSH sector in fields of healthcare delivery at all levels, research, education, schemes and various health programs. To develop a network of People, Knowledge and Technology for radical, sustainable and wholesome transformation of AYUSH sector, and play a pivotal role in taking care of holistic health care needs (i.e. curative, preventive and promotive health) and socio- economic wellbeing of Indian citizens and further extending the benefits to entire world population.   To create an organic and dynamic information and communication technology (ICT) powered network interconnecting all streams of AYUSH in their key functional areas viz. health care delivery, capacity building, research & development, AYUSH drug regulation and education. This will be beneficial for all stakeholders of AYUSH and also helpful for effective governance. Strategies for development will be in sync with the national and international policies and health care needs. The main components of AYUSH GRID Project are as under: Health Services Education Research Central Sector and Centrally Sponsored Schemes Training Citizen Centric Services Drug Licencing Portal Media Outreach NOTE: Health is a state subject Cabinet approves Inter-Institutional Agreement between India and USA for cooperation in the field of medicine The objective of the Agreement is to contribute towards the development of research and education of both the Institutions through academic collaboration. The general areas of common interest where collaboration and exchange of knowledge are intended for both include: Exchange of faculty members and students for training, study and research especially in the areas on 3D Bioprinting; Execution of joint research projects; and Exchange of information and academic publications Pradhan Mantri Urja Ganga Project (Topic: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation) The Government has taken various policy initiatives to increase the domestic production of crude oil and natural gas which include: - Policy for Relaxations, Extensions and Clarifications under Production Sharing Contract (PSC) regime for early monetization of hydrocarbon discoveries; New Domestic Natural Gas Pricing Guidelines-2014; Marketing including pricing freedom on natural gas production under PSC regime from difficult areas such as High Pressure-High Temperature (HP-HT) reservoirs and deep water and ultra-deep water areas; Discovered Small Field Policy; Hydrocarbon Exploration and Licensing Policy; Policy for Extension of Production Sharing Contracts; Policy for early monetization of Coal Bed Methane; Setting up of National Data Repository; National Seismic Programme for appraisal of Unappraised areas in Sedimentary Basins; Re-assessment of Hydrocarbon Resources; Policy framework to streamline the working of Production Sharing Contracts in Pre-NELP and NELP Blocks; Policy to Promote and Incentivize Enhanced Recovery Methods for Oil and Gas; Policy framework for exploration and exploitation of Unconventional Hydrocarbons under existing Production Sharing Contracts, Coal Bed Methane contracts and Nomination fields. Encouraging Research for Smaller Companies in Defence Projects (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: Mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment Indigenization of technology and developing new technology) Government has taken several steps towards simplifying the rules and promotion of research and innovation in respect of MSMEs in Defence Industry. Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP) has been revised in 2016 wherein specific provisions have been introduced for stimulating growth of the domestic defence industry with regard to MSMEs. A new category of procurement ‘Buy {Indian-IDDM (Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured)}’ has been introduced in DPP-2016 to promote indigenous design and development of defence equipment. It has been accorded top most priority for procurement of capital equipment. Besides this, preference has been accorded to ‘Buy (Indian)’, ‘Buy and Make (Indian)’ & ‘Make’ categories of capital acquisition over ‘Buy (Global)’ & ‘Buy & Make (Global)’ categories. The ‘Make’ Procedure has been simplified with provisions for funding of 90% of development cost by the Government to Indian industry and reserving projects not exceeding development cost of Rs.10 Crore (Government funded) and Rs.3 Crore (Industry funded) for MSMEs. Separate procedure for ‘Make-II’ sub-category has been notified wherein projects will involve prototype development of equipment/system/platform or their upgrades or their sub-systems/sub-assembly/assemblies/components primarily for import substitution/innovation solutions, for which no Government funding will be provided for prototype development purposes. In order to expand the manufacturing infrastructure, Government has decided to establish two defence industrial corridors, one each in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, to serve as an engine of growth of defence industrial base in the country. The Defence Products List for the purpose of issuing Industrial Licenses (ILs) under IDR Act has been revised and most of the components, parts,sub-systems, testing equipment and production equipment have been removed from the list, so as to reduce the entry barriers for the industry, particularly small & medium segment. The initial validity of the Industrial Licence granted under the IDR Act has been increased from 03 years to 15 years with a provision to further extend it by 03 years on a case-to-case basis.The process for export clearance has been streamlined and made transparent & online. An innovation ecosystem for Defence titled Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) has been launched which is aimed at creation of an ecosystem to foster innovation and technology development in Defence and Aerospace by engaging Industries including MSMEs, Start-ups, Individual Innovators, R&D Institutes and Academia and provide them grants/funding and other support to carry out R&D which has potential for future adoption for Indian defence and aerospace needs.  Under iDEX, innovative solutions have been successfully identified for 14 problem areas pertaining to national defence requirements. More than 600 startups have been engaged in the process and 44 different solutions have been identified for the problem statements by the innovators. Government has set up the Technology Development Fund (TDF) to encourage participation of public/private industries especially MSMEs, through provision of grants, so as to create an eco-system for enhancing cutting edge technology capability for defence applications. The Ministry has instituted a new framework titled ‘Mission Raksha Gyan Shakti’ which aims to provide boost to the IPR culture in indigenous defence industry. Prelims oriented News: Limboo and Tamang communities: In Sikkim Dibang Multipurpose Project: In Arunachal Pradesh; a storage based hydro-electric project with flood moderation as the key objective. The Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar is conferred upon artists below the age of 40 years with the objective of identifying and encouraging outstanding young talents in diverse fields of performing arts and giving them national recognition early in their life, so that they may work with greater commitment and dedication in their chosen fields.  Restoration work of Markandeshwar temple in Maharashtra by Archaeological Survey of India  Known as the “Khajuraho of Vidarbha”, the temple of Markandadeo is situated on the bank of River Wainganga in district Gadchiroli of Maharashtra.  The temples belong to the Nagara group of temples of North India.   On stylistic grounds, their date ranges in between 9-12th centuries CE.  The temples belong to saiva, vaishnava and sakta faith.  Most of the temples have a simple plan, with ardhamandapa, mandapa, antarala and garbhagriha forming the component of the entire set up. The most striking feature of this temple is the largescale destruction caused on the main shrine (garbhagriha) and the very first recordings made by Alexander Cunningham states that - about 200 years ago the shikhara of the main shrine and mahamandapa was struck by a lightning which led to the partial collapse of the shikhara (the finial, north and south facade). Govt. drafted Digital Information Security in Healthcare Act (DISHA Act): To ensure data privacy, confidentiality, reliability and security of digital health data ‘Paramarsh’ – a University Grants Commission (UGC) scheme for Mentoring National Accreditation and Assessment Council (NAAC) Accreditation Aspirant Institutions to promote Quality Assurance in Higher Education  The Scheme will be operationalized through a “Hub & Spoke” model wherein the Mentor Institution, called the “Hub” is centralized and will have the responsibility of guiding the Mentee institution through the secondary branches the “Spoke” through the services provided to the mentee for self-improvement. This allows a centralized control over operational efficiency, resource utilization to attain overall development of the mentee institution. Will target 1000 Higher Education Institutions for mentoring with a specific focus on quality as enumerated in the UGC “Quality Mandate”. Mentor-Mentee relationship will not only benefit both the institutions but also provide quality education to the 3.6 crore students who are enrolling to Indian Higher Education system at present. One Nation One Card This National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) enables seamless travel by metro rails and other transport systems across the country besides retail shopping and purchases.  National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) program, as envisaged by MoHUA (Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs), offers offline transactions independent of network connectivity by utilizing the existing infrastructure with banks.  This card may be used for all payment applications (low value - offline/high value - online) including transit, retail, toll, parking and smart cities.  The stored value of the card offers the offline transaction proposition across all low value segments. Eradicating TB by 2025 The Ministry has developed the National Strategic Plan (NSP) for Tuberculosis (2017-2025) with the goal of ending TB by 2025. The key focus areas are: Early diagnosis of all the TB patients, prompt treatment with quality assured drugs and treatment regimens along with suitable patient support systems to promote adherence. Engaging with the patients seeking care in the private sector Prevention strategies including active case finding and contact tracing in high risk / vulnerable population Airborne infection control Multi-sectoral response for addressing social determinants. According to the World Health Organization Global TB report 2018, the estimated number of TB cases in India in 2017 was 27,40,000, amounting incidence of 204 per lakh population. The Central Government administers the Securitisation and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest Act, 2002 (SARFAESI Act) which allows banks and financial institutions to recover their dues exceeding one lakh rupees by proceeding against secured assets of the borrower/guarantor without the intervention of the court/tribunals. Challenges faced by Jawans at Siachen Glacier The challenges faced by soldiers posted in Siachen Glacier stem from the peculiar terrain and weather conditions. The major challenges due to inclement weather conditions are – Reduced human body efficiency Bright sunlight leading to snow blindness Blizzards White out conditions The troops deployed at forward posts bear the risk of avalanches, crevasses on glaciated surfaces and have to negotiate Ice walls apart from facing the common ailments associated with high altitude and glaciated terrain. Plantation Labour Act: The Government is planning to subsume the Plantations Labour Act, 1951 in the Labour Code on Occupational Safety, Health and Working Condition Bill, 2019 which inter-alia aims to provide fair wages to plantation workers by limiting the kind component, to provide welfare facilities through the welfare schemes of the government and involve appropriate agencies in providing welfare schemes and enforcement of the provisions of the Act. The proposed Bill also aims to provide better welfare facilities to plantation workers such as medical, drinking water, educational facilities, housing facilities etc. Organic Farming Realizing the potential and benefits of organic farming and to improve the economic condition of farmers in the country, Government of India is promoting organic farming through the dedicated schemes of Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) and Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region (MOVCDNER) under National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA) since 2015-16. Under PKVY, flexibility is given to states to adopt any model of Organic Farming including ZBNF depending on farmer’s choice that is free from chemicals, pesticides residues and adopts eco-friendly low cost technologies. Under PKVY,   assistance of Rs. 50,000 per hectare/ 3 years is allowed out of which Rs. 31,000 (61%) is provided to farmer   directly through DBT   for input (biofertilisers, biopesticides, vermicompost, botanical extracts etc) production/ procurement, packing,   marketing etc. Under MOVCDNER , assistance is provided to the farmers in a value chain mode starting from formation of Farmers Producer Organisations (FPOs), on/off farm input production, supply of seeds/ planting materials, post-harvest infrastructure including collection, sorting, grading facilities,   establishment of integrated processing unit, refrigerated transportation, pre-cooling/ cold stores chamber, branding, labelling and packaging, etc . Steps to promote and stimulate the growth of MSME sector in the country Simplification of the registration process through a one page Udyog Aadhar Memorandum (UAM) Introduction of the ‘MSME SAMBANDH’ portal for monitoring the implementation of public procurement policy for the MSEs Launching of the ‘MSME SAMADHAN’ portal for enabling MSMEs to directly register their cases relating to delayed payments.  Further, schemes/programmes including Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP), Credit Guarantee Scheme, Credit Linked Capital Subsidy-Technological Up-gradation Scheme (CLCS-TUS) to support MSMEs in their technology up-gradation, Cluster Development Programme, Marketing Development Assistance and Skill/Entrepreneurship Development Programme etc. are also implemented to boost the MSME sector. Nutrition in India As per the Report of Nutritional Intake in India, 2011-12 published under 68th round of National Sample Survey Office (NSSO), the average dietary energy intake per person per day was 2233 Kcal for rural India and 2206 Kcal for urban India, which is lower than Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) of 2320 Kcal. The Government has set up POSHAN Abhiyaan in 2017 for a three year time frame, commencing from 2017-18. The Abhiyaan aims to reduce malnutrition in the country in a phased manner, through a life cycle approach, by adopting a synergised and result oriented approach. The Abhiyaan will ensure mechanisms for timely service delivery and a robust monitoring as well as intervention infrastructure.  The target of the Abhiyaan is To reduce stunting in children (0-6 years), under-nutrition (underweight prevalence) in children (0-6 years) and Low Birth Weight @2% per annum Reduce anaemia among young children (6-59 months), women and adolescent girls @3% per annum across the country.  The major works undertaken under this Abhiyaan are  Ensuring convergence with various other programmes Information Technology enabled Common Application Software for strengthening service delivery and interventions Community Mobilization and Awareness Advocacy leading to Jan Andolan- to educate the people on nutritional aspects Capacity Building of Frontline Functionaries Incentivizing States/ UTs for achieving goals The Ujjawala Scheme is for prevention of trafficking, rescue, rehabilitation, re-integration and repatriation of victims of trafficking for commercial sexual exploitation. There are 254 projects including 134 Protective and Rehabilitative Homes in the country. The number of beneficiaries are 5,291. ‘Police’ and ‘Public Order’ are State subjects under the Seventh Schedule to the Constitution of India. The responsibilities towards maintenance of law and order and protection of life and property of citizens rest primarily with State Governments. Rashtriya Mahila Kosh (RMK)  To promote or undertake cover activities for the promotion of or to provide credit as an instrument of socio-economic change and development through the provision of a package of financial and social development services for the development of women; To promote and support schemes for improvement of facilities for credit for women: For sustenance of their existing employment, For generation of further employment, For asset creation, For asset redemption and For tiding over consumption, social and contingent needs; To demonstrate and replicate participatory approaches in the organisation of women’s groups for effective utilisation of credit resources leading to self-reliance To promote and support experiments in the voluntary and formal sector using innovative methodologies to reach poor women with credit and other social services; To sensitize existing government delivery mechanisms and increase the visibility of poor women as a vital and clientele with the conventional institutions; To promote research, study, documentation and analysis, including provision of fellowships and scholarships, of credit and its management and of successful experiences at various levels in order to promote replication and dissemination of successful credit extension and management methodologies; To promote the federation and networking of women’s organisations for shaping and to develop skills in response management & social mobilization; To promote and support the expansion of entrepreneurship skills among women; To cooperate with and secure the cooperation of the Central Government, State Governments and Union Territory Administration, credit institutions, industrial and commercial organisation and non-government, voluntary and other organisations and bodies in promoting the objects of the Kosh; To accept subscriptions, grants, contributions, donations, loans, guarantees, gifts, bequests etc. on such terms and obligations not inconsistent with the aims and objects of the Kosh; and To do all such lawful acts and things as may be necessary or conductive for furthering the objects of the Kosh. Upliftment of Women of Backward Communities National Backward Classes Finance and Development Corporation (NBCFDC), an organization under the aegis of Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has the following two women specific schemes for targeted women whose annual family income is less than Rs. 3.00 lakh per annum: Mahila Samriddhi Yojana: To provide Micro Finance to women entrepreneurs of Backward Classes. New Swarnima Scheme for Women: Term Loan to inculcate the spirit of self-dependence among the women of Backward Classes Steps for skill development in Higher Education To strengthen the knowledge and skills of the graduates, requisite for the current job market and to make them employable, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has adopted the Learning Outcome Based Curriculum Framework (LOCF) at Undergraduate Level as one of its Quality Improvement Programme mandate. The UGC is also providing Skill based education under National Skill Qualification Framework in Colleges and Universities through its scheme of Community Colleges, B.Voc. Degree Programmes and Deen Dayal Upadhyay Centres for Knowledge Acquisition and Upgradation of Skilled Human Abilities and Livelihood (DDU KAUSHAL Kendras). Further, a committee under the Chairmanship of Shri B.V.R. Mohan Reddy, Chairman, Board of Governors, IIT, Hyderabad was constituted on 18th October, 2018 for preparing short term and long term perspective plan for the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE). The committee submitted its report and Executive Committee of AICTE has approved the report. Main recommendations of the committee include (i) courses on emerging technologies namely, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), Block chain, Robotics, Quantum Computing, Data Sciences, Cyber Security, 3D Printing & Design & Augmented Reality (AR)/ Virtual Reality (VR); and (ii) greater focus on multi-disciplining courses by reducing the seats in conventional disciplines and converting the existing seats into these courses. Another Committee was also constituted for revamping and attuning curricula of National Institutes of Technology (NITs) to look into the needs of the industry and honing skills of the students coming out of the institutions. The recommendations of the Committee have been accepted by the Council of National Institutes of Technology, Science Education and Research