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RSTV IAS UPSC – Universal Basic Income

Universal Basic Income Archives TOPIC: General Studies 2 Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes; mechanisms, laws, institutions and bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections In News: Sikkim’s ruling Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) has decided to include Universal Basic Income (UBI) in its manifesto for the upcoming assembly and Lok Sabha elections. The state has already begun the process of introducing the unconditional direct cash transfer scheme and is planning to implement the same by 2022. It could become the first state in India to implement UBI. Background: The 2017 Economic Survey had advocated implementation of UBI as an alternative to the various social welfare schemes in an effort to reduce poverty. The Survey said, “UBI is a powerful idea whose time even if not ripe for implementation, is ripe for serious discussion.” However, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in June 2017 said the scheme as proposed in the Economic Survey will not be politically feasible in today's India. What is Universal Basic Income? Universal basic income (UBI) is a model for providing all citizens of a country or other geographic area with a given sum of money, regardless of their income, resources or employment status. Purpose of the UBI: To prevent or reduce poverty and increase equality among citizens Underlying principle: Basic income is the idea that all citizens are entitled to a livable income, whether or not they contribute to production and despite the particular circumstances into which they are born. The idea and its appeal While India has made considerable progress in bringing down poverty from about 70% of the population at the time of independence to about 22% in 2011-12 (Tendulkar Committee estimates), the effectiveness of the targeted schemes run by central and state governments have always been in question. Studies and government audits reflect the data manipulation and leakages that characterise the system, with the poor and deserving crowded out of BPL card ownership and the rich reaping undeserved benefits. Targeting is seen as being both inefficient and inequitable, a licence for corruption that has spawned an entire industry of middlemen. UBI envisages an uncompromised social safety net that seeks to assure a dignified life for everyone, a concept that is expected to gain traction in a global economy buffeted by uncertainties on account of globalisation, technological change, and automation. The concept of universal basic income has three main features: UBI is universal in nature. It means UBI is not targeted. The second feature of UBI is cash transfer instead of in-kind transfer. The third feature is that UBI is unconditional. That means one need not prove his or her unemployment status or socio-economic identity to be eligible for UBI. As a form of social security UBI will help in reducing inequality and eliminating poverty. Thus it ensures security and dignity for all individuals. As human labour is being substituted by technology, there will be reduced wage income and reduced purchasing power. UBI will compensate for reduced purchasing power. What would UBI mean to the Government? There would be drastic changes in the way government spends its revenue generated from taxation and other sources. Currently, Government spends its revenue on various services as well as on subsidies. UBI would mean that government may move away from service delivery and empower its citizens to access services through cash transfer. What are the advantages of UBI? First, UBI would strengthen economic liberty at an individual level; would help them to choose the kind of work they want to do, rather than forcing them to do unproductive work to meet their daily requirements. Universal Basic Income would be a sort of an insurance against unemployment and hence helps in reducing poverty. It will result in equitable distribution of wealth. Increased income will increase the bargaining power of individuals, as they will no longer be forced to accept any working conditions. Because of its universal character, there is no need to identify the beneficiaries. Thus it excludes errors in identifying the intended beneficiaries – which is a common problem in targeted welfare schemes. As every individual receive basic income, it promotes efficiency by reducing wastages in government transfers. This would also help in reducing corruption. Considerable gains could be achieved in terms of bureaucratic costs and time by replacing many of the social sector schemes with UBI. As economic survey points out, transferring basic income directly into bank accounts will increase the demand for financial services. This would help banks to invest in the expansion of their service network, which is very important for financial inclusion. What are the main arguments against UBI? A guaranteed minimum income might make people lazy and it breeds dependency. They may opt out of labour market. There is no guarantee that the additional income will be spent on education, health etc. there are chances that the money will be spent on ‘temptation goods’ such as alcohol, tobacco, drugs etc. Given the large population size, the fiscal burden on government would be high. Also, as Economic Survey 2016-17 noted, once implemented, it may become difficult for the government to wind up a UBI in the case of failure. If the UBI is funded by higher taxes, especially by the indirect taxes, it will result in inflation. This, in turn, will reduce the purchasing power of the people and lowers the value of the amount transferred. A ‘guaranteed minimum income’ might reduce the availability of workers in some sectors which are necessary but unattractive and raise the wages of such works. For example, the wages of agriculture labour might increase due to non-availability of workers willing to work in others’ farm. What are the challenges that may face in Implementation of UBI? According to World Bank, in India, there are only 20 ATMs for every one lakh adult population. Nearly one-third of the Indian adults remain unbanked. With such a state of financial service infrastructure and financial inclusion, it would be difficult for the people to access their benefits. Financing the ‘guaranteed minimum income’ would be another challenge. There are chances that UBI would become an add-on to existing subsidies rather than replace them. Conclusion Despite making remarkable progress in poverty reduction, nearly 22 percent of the population lives below poverty line (Tendulkar committee report, 2011-12). One of the major criticisms of poverty alleviation programmes is significant leakages. UBI is seen as a more efficient alternative. Though UBI has many advantages, there are many practical challenges too. A transparent and safe financial architecture that is accessible to all is important for the success of the UBI. In other words, the success of UBI depends on the success of efficient mode of delivery like JAM Trinity. Also, a behavioral change on the part of account holders needed so that they use their accounts more often. Banks need to find it profitable to provide access to banking services. Connecting the Dots: UBI is a powerful idea whose time even if not ripe for implementation is ripe for serious discussion. Discuss. Discuss the merits and challenges associated with ‘Universal Basic Income’.

60 Days Plan 2019 - Daily Prelims Test

60 Days Plan: UPSC IAS Prelims 2019 - Geography and Current Affairs (Day 3)

60 Day plan has been published on the website (www.iasbaba.com - Click here ). Since we have come up with the 'Quiz Format', it will not be feasible to publish it on the app. For feasibility and getting to know where you stand among your peers (we have a leaderboard which gives your marks and rank) it would be advisable to take the test on the website. All the best. make the best use of the initiative ! Before taking the Test, read the post below, ARCHIVES Hello Friends,  The most beloved 60 Days for UPSC IAS Prelims 2019  has finally begun :) Once again the time has come for the battle (Prelims). And who else than your best companion in the last preparatory phase for UPSC IAS Prelims 2019 i.e 60 days plan. It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.  Hope the message given above makes sense to you all. The productive utilization of this programme demands consistency, honesty, faith and strong determination to be in the process of learning and unlearning. You might not be fully prepared to solve all the questions but the learning and unlearning through these questions will prepare you for the real battle on 2nd June 2019. You have to unlearn your repetitive mistakes, gut feeling on which you mark doubtful questions. You have to learn new things and also those concepts that you were very sure of but somehow because of traps in the option, got it wrong. You have to learn 'how to convert knowledge into marks' (Because most of the times, after ending the exam, you regret making mistakes in known concepts).  Secondly, keep a long distance from following too many things at this point. It will always backfire. Once you are here, put complete faith and follow this initiative along with whatever you were doing. It is very important to consolidate your preparation with many revisions. Simply following many things will leave you in despair. You can cross check this with veterans. Everything that seems attractive is not productive. You should always go for productivity. Be wise! Let us pledge to make it a big game changer (better than last year) in the next 60 days of this plan! Importance of Self - Tracking: Learning from Last Year Last year, aspirants used to type/post their answers in the comment box on a daily basis. There were huge participation and discussion below the test post. Putting answers in the comment box has been very effective to self-track yourself after updating the score. In the end, you can cross check your performance through Disqus profile. It was highly effective in the last edition of 60 Days that propelled aspirants to monitor their performance and learn through discussion. Let you solve these questions with full honesty and write your result in the comment box. Interact with peers to know your mistakes. The importance of this initiative stands time-bound and aggressive reverse engineering to learn the concepts. Many of you must be busy with your own strategy but let us tell you honestly that in the last few months, it is very important to revise and consolidate your learning. Just reading won’t suffice. So, take out a few hours from your schedule and make it a revision exercise. How can you make the best use of it? Be honest to your effort and do not start competing with XYZ aspirants just for the sake of marks. It is more important for you to introspect and check your learning than focusing on others. Try to answer the questions in 25 minutes only.  Do not get into negative feeling that I don’t have enough knowledge to answer these questions. Feel like you are taking the real exam. What would be your response then? The same will be replicated in the UPSC exam. Here, you get marks only and nothing else matters. So, make effort to know the answers to all questions. Do not cheat :P DETAILED MICRO ANALYSIS MATRIX SAMPLE- is given here. You can download this and do an assessment for yourself (the excel sheet must be modified as per this years planning. The provided excel sheet is only for reference).  DOWNLOAD You can copy paste the same format/modify as per your need in Google Spreadsheet and update it on daily basis. Feedback talks about daily test results. Follow-up talks about daily target achieved from sources and the number of revisions to do/done and dates. Sources column is to ensure that aspirants do not run behind various sources and follow the same throughout. Would like to end on this quote:  Either you run the day or the day runs you.  Are you ready? Let's start! Important Note Don't forget to post your marks in the comment section. Also, let us know if you enjoyed today's test :)  You can post your comments in the given format  (1) Your Score (2) Matrix Meter (3) New Learning from the Test

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 4th March 2019

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 4th March 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) India and Myanmar: Countering Naga militants Part of: GS Mains II and III – India and its neighbouring countries – Bilateral ties; International Relations; Security issues In news: India’s improved ties with Myanmar fuelled the crackdown on Naga militants training camps. In late January, Myanmar took over National Socialist Council of Nagaland-Khaplang (NSCN-K), which is considered to be the mother lode of most extremist groups in the northeastern region. NSCN-K outfit had violated an agreement not to allow Myanmar territory to be used by “any rebel group to attack a neighbouring country [India].” Extremist groups such as the United Liberation Front of Asom and the United National Liberation Front of Manipur are known to use jungle routes for hit-and-run operations in India from the NSCN-K’s base. A.P. villagers yearn to revive historic temple @Motupalli port Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – Indian art and heritage; Culture In news: Motupalli — where a historic temple of Veerabhadraswamy, a fiery form of Lord Siva, is located — has been an important port for centuries with flourishing trade with South Asian countries, especially during the medieval period. Why in news? Motupalli Veerabhadraswamy temple - This heritage site in Andhra Pradesh presents a picture of neglect now. The temple remains closed ever since the Department of Archaeology took it over for conservation and preservation of the archaeological marvel in the wake of discovery of Panchaloha idols of gods and goddesses including that of Lord Nataraja in dancing posture and Bhadrakali in the 1970s from nearby farms, after idol-lifters tried to lay their hands on them in view of the demand for such idols overseas. Motupally is well connected by road and rail network on the east coast. People of Motupalli now demanding for reviving the past glory of the temple by reinstalling the idols in the historic temple and promotion of temple tourism in a big way. Most of the antique idols were shifted either to the State Archaeology Museum or to the Victoria Museum, Vijayawada. The villagers’ demand is that they should be brought back and reinstalled. Key pointers for Prelims: Veerabhadra Swamy temple was constructed during the regime of the Cholas. It has stone inscriptions in Telugu and Tamil and awe-inspiring Panchaloha idols. Sri Rama and Veerabhadra Swamy Temples in Motupalli Village reflect the rich culture of Satavahana Kings. It is said that this Temple flourished during the times of Kakatiya rulers who established sea trade with foreign countries. Inscriptions on the temple walls were written in Telugu, Tamil and Sanskrlt Languages. Motupalli Village is located in the coastal region of Andhra Pradesh in Chinnaganjam Mandal, Prakasam District. During Kakatiyas, Motupalli acted as the major hub for sea transportation. Carving on the temple walls and Idols in the temple premises shows the architecture and style of Kakatlya Kings. This region was ruled by Satavahanas, Pallavas, Chalukyas and Cholas. Currently, this site is under the maintenance of Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). U.K. offers collaboration in fighter tech, carriers Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II and III – International Relations; India and the World; Bilateral ties; Security issues In news: As the Indian Air Force (IAF) continues its efforts to procure new fighter jets, the U.K. has made a pitch for cooperation in the fields of building aircraft carriers and future fighter aircraft technologies. It is a partnership building exercise on how India and the U.K. can collaborate as future defence technologies are increasingly going to be delivered by collaborative programmes. Do you know? The IAF has floated a tender for 114 fighter jets, while a proposed fifth generation stealth fighter, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), is on the drawing board. As part of the air combat strategy, BAE Systems has begun the Tempest project to develop sixth generation stealth fighters to replace the Typhoons in service with the Royal Air Force and are scheduled to be phased out by 2040. Odisha shelter homes to have lightning protection system Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Disaster Management; Government schemes and policies In news: 640 shelters to be taken up in first phase with funding from World Bank under the National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project Lightning has emerged as the leading cause behind natural deaths across the State. In Odisha, lightning claims an average of 400 lives every year. The total number of reported deaths due to lightning during the last three years from 2015-16 to 2017-18 is 1,256, which accounts for about 27% of total number of disaster deaths. Important value additions: About National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project (NCRMP) NCRMP was started by the Ministry of Home Affairs to mitigate vulnerability to the cyclone and hazards prone coastal communities. After the formation of National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), management of the project was transferred to NDMA in September, 2006. NCRMP-I covers States of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha. NCRMP-II covers States of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, and West Bengal. The project is implemented by the Ministry of Home Affairs through National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and executed by the respective State Disaster Management Authorities at the State level. The project is partly funded by the World Bank. Objectives of NCRMP The overall objective of the National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project (‘NCRMP’) is to minimize vulnerability to cyclones and make people and infrastructure disaster resilient in harmony with conservation of the coastal eco-system in the cyclone hazard prone States and Union Territories of India. Miscellaneous: 1. ICC rejects request to ‘isolate’ Pakistan In news: The appeal of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for ‘isolation’ of nations supporting terrorism, without naming Pakistan, did not find support at the International Cricket Council (ICC) board meeting. The BCCI CEO Rahul Johri raised the issue of security at the next World Cup and received an assurance from the ICC in this regard. Since Pakistan was a permanent member of the ICC, it would not be possible to “isolate” it unless it is supported by all Test playing countries. Do you know? India has been raising the issue of terror emanating from Pakistan at various international forums for a long time. India, supported by France, is preparing a fresh proposal to place Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) chief Masood Azhar on the ban list operated by the UNSC’s 1267 committee. 2. SpaceX’s capsule docks on ISS Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Science and Technology; Space Missions In news: SpaceX’s new Dragon capsule successfully docked on the International Space Station (ISS). The capsule was launched on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from the Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral in Florida. The Dragon capsule will remain on the ISS for few days before detaching to splash down in the Atlantic. It will be slowed by four parachutes, in what is the one of the mission’s riskiest stages. The launch is a key step towards resuming manned space flights from U.S. soil after an eight-year break. (MAINS FOCUS) WELFARE/HEALTH TOPIC:General studies 2  Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes; mechanisms, laws, institutions and bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections. Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources. Issues relating to poverty and hunger. ‘For Healthy India’: The basics are vital Context: We had earlier noted in many editorials and analysis dealing with Health Care that why Strengthening of Primary Health Care is important and also major concern for poor health conditions in India is due to Lack of Government Funding. According to high-level expert group on universal health coverage, nearly 70% of government health spending should go to primary health care. National Health Policy (NHP) 2017 also advocated allocating resources of up to two-thirds or more to primary care. Major concerns: 1. Lack of Government Funding to Primary Health Care The current outlay of ₹1,600 crore by the government to transform existing sub-health centre into a health and wellness centre, which provide a wider range of primary care services, is less than half the conservative estimate. Government has proposed to transform 1.5 lakh sub-health centres into Primary health and wellness centres by 2022 and with the current estimates at the given rate, it can fulfil not even half the proposed target of 1.5 lakh health and wellness centres till 2022. This is in contrast to several recommendations to increase the primary health care government expenditure. 2. Dismal situation of National Health Mission: The overall situation with the NHM, India's flagship programme in Primary health care, continues to be dismal. The NHM's share in the health budget fell from 73% in 2006 to 50% in 2019 in the absence of uniform and substantial increases in health spending by States. Ministry of Finance had projected a 17% increase in allocation for the NHM in 2019-20. However, there has only been only an increase of 3.4% this year. NHM budget for this year (₹31,745 crore) barely crosses the actual spending on the programme in 2017-18 (₹ 31,510 crore). 3. Dominance of private players: Centre has committed to increase access to hospitalisation care, predominantly through private players. There has been an increase in allocation this year by 167% for the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) — the insurance programme. PMJAY aims to cover 10 crore poor families for hospitalisation expenses of up to ₹5 lakh per family per annum. Government has also taken steps to incentivise the private sector to open hospitals in Tier II and Tier III cities. The increase in the PMJAY budget is a welcome step and should be increased further every year, however the same coming at the expense of other critical areas is ill-advised. 4. Shortage of PHCs and staffs There is a shortage of PHCs (22%) and sub-health centres (20%) Only 7% sub-health centres and 12% primary health centres meet Indian Public Health Standards (IPHS) norms. Numerous primary-level facilities need complete building reconstruction. They are operated out of rented apartments and thatched accommodations; lack basic facilities such as toilets, drinking water and electricity. There is a staggering shortage of medical and paramedical staff at all levels of care. Importance of Primary Health Care: Vital for effective and efficient health system. Instrumental in reducing the out of pocket expenditure. Vital for achieving “distress-free and comprehensive wellness system for all” Crucial for the success of PMJAY Conclusion: Adequate emphasis should be given on primary health care and there is a need to depart from the current trend of erratic and insufficient increases in health spending and make substantial and sustained investments in public health over the next decade. Without this, the ninth dimension (‘Healthy India’) of “Vision 2030” will remain unfulfilled. Connecting the dots: Why India’s health achievements are very modest and has poor health indicators compared to its neighbours? Examine. Also suggest ideas to improve the status of public healthcare in India. Can increase in scope of private financing to fund public health care be a rational option? Evaluate. ECONOMY TOPIC:General studies 2  Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. General studies 3  Indian Economy and issues relating to mobilization of resources, growth, development; Government Budgeting. Tackling the issues in GST Regime Introduction: We know that GST is one of the biggest indirect tax reforms in the country. GST is expected to bring together state economies and improve overall economic growth of the nation. GST has the best intentions, but the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council is nevertheless systematically eroding the strongest features of the new tax regime that is simplicity and transparency. Concerns: 1. Issue of Tax Simplicity: Before the GST was introduced, Arvind Subramanian panel related to GST, came up with a standard rate of 15% for most items, a “low rate” for essentials, and a “high rate” for demerit goods. However the government introduced GST with five different tax slabs: 0%, 5%, 12%, 18% and 28%. The GST Council then introduced two more highly specific rates: a nominal 0.25% for rough diamonds and 3% for gold. In the latest GST Council meeting, it introduced yet another rate of 1% for the sale of under-construction affordable houses. Though, the number of tax slabs does not affect the concept of 'One Nation One Tax’, as a single product is still taxed at the same rate across the country. But specifying eight different GST rates is a blow to tax simplicity, which the GST was to provide. 2. Wrong precedent which undermine ‘One Nation One Tax’ concept: Government felt it was necessary to provide Kerala additional funds for rehabilitation after the devastating floods of 2018 and allowed the State to impose a 1% disaster relief cess. However, it had several options available apart from the one it chose. As a result, for two years, the Indian market will be divided into two: Kerala, where goods and services are 1% more expensive, and the rest of India. While it can be argued that the cess in Kerala is a one-off, the fact remains that this is a bad precedent to set. It's not too hard to imagine a situation where States start clamouring for a cyclone relief cess, drought relief cess, flood relief cess, etc. Recovery from natural disasters is an expensive process, and additional funds must be made available. But mechanisms for this have already been put in place. There is a National Disaster Response Fund at the Central level and each State has a State Disaster Response Fund. Increasing budgetary allocations in these areas instead of spending on giant statues and advertising campaigns is an option. 3. Increasing the Opacity: Recent decision by GST council to remove the input tax credit provision from the real estate sector will likely go a long way in increasing opacity in an already murky sector. The input tax credit system was designed to create a seamless chain in the entire supply process. Under a fully functioning GST system, the government can verify the amount of credits to be paid to the company by matching its invoices with those provided by the vendor. Such a system encourages honesty and transparency. 4. Not utilizing the National Anti-Profiteering Authority: This is the third time the Council has removed this vital provision (input tax credit), and its reason for doing so is weak that is real estate developers were not dropping their prices in line with what they should be doing, considering they were getting the benefit of input tax credits. This happened before in the case of restaurants. In both situations, the government took the easy way out and simply removed the input tax credit provision altogether. So, rather than relying on the body it had created to handle such issues, the National Anti-Profiteering Authority, the Council instead chose to weaken the entire tax system. This wouldn't have been too much of a problem if the real estate sector was as small as the restaurant industry or the sanitary pads industry (the third industry where there is no input tax credits). But the real estate industry is estimated to be at least 40O00 crore in size. Not to forget the fact that cement, a huge input in real estate, is taxed at the highest rate of 28%, and will now not be offset by credits. Conclusion: In both cases (disaster relief and anti-profiteering), the GST Council has chosen to ignore established institutions designed for those very purposes in favour of a patchwork approach that is likely to cause more problems than it solves. Connecting the dots: How has GST impacted the economy of India in short term? Critically analyse. Determine the importance of GST Council and Anti-Profiteering Authority in GST. Do you think the present GST tariff structure addresses the generally regressive nature of indirect taxes? Critically examine. (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) Which one of the following was a very important seaport in the Kakatiya kingdom? (UPSC 2017) Kakinada Motupalli Machilipatnam (Masulipatnam) Nelluru Q.2) Consider the following statements about National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project (NCRMP) The project is implemented by the Ministry of Home Affairs. The project covers only coastal states on eastern side of the country which are prone to cyclones. Select the correct statements 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) Consider the following statements about National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project (NCRMP) National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) under the aegis of Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) will implement the Project in coordination with participating State Governments and the National Institute for Disaster Management (NIDM) NCRMP Phase – 1 covers states of Goa,Gujarat,Karnataka,Kerela,Maharashtra and West Bengal Which of the following statements is/are correct? Only 1 Only 2 Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4) Consider the following statements with regard to Motupalli Veerabhadraswamy temple: It was constructed during the regime of the Cholas. It has stone inscriptions in Telugu and Tamil only. Carving on the temple walls and idols in the temple premises shows the architecture and style of Kakatiya Kings. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? Only 1 Only 2 1 and 3 1, 2 and 3 MUST READ Lines being crossed The Hindu The week after: on India-Pak relations The Hindu Deepening slowdown: on the Indian economy The Hindu  Failing the forest The Hindu Lessons from a crisis Indian Express  Towards dignity Indian Express Kashmir needs a robust education system Indian Express No achhe din for the farmer Indian Express The right climate Indian Express India needs to get its priorities right, focus on water and power Livemint The positive side of having coalition governments Livemint

60 Days Plan 2019 - Daily Prelims Test

60 Days Plan: UPSC IAS Prelims 2019- Polity and Current Affairs (Day 2)

60 Day plan has been published on the website (www.iasbaba.com - Click here). Since we have come up with the 'Quiz Format', it will not be feasible to publish it on the app. For feasibility and getting to know where you stand among your peers (we have a leaderboard which gives your marks and rank) it would be advisable to take the test on the website. All the best. make the best use of the initiative ! Before taking the Test, read the post below, ARCHIVES Hello Friends,  The most beloved 60 Days for UPSC IAS Prelims 2019  has finally begun :) Once again the time has come for the battle (Prelims). And who else than your best companion in the last preparatory phase for UPSC IAS Prelims 2019 i.e 60 days plan. It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.  Hope the message given above makes sense to you all. The productive utilization of this programme demands consistency, honesty, faith and strong determination to be in the process of learning and unlearning. You might not be fully prepared to solve all the questions but the learning and unlearning through these questions will prepare you for the real battle on 2nd June 2019. You have to unlearn your repetitive mistakes, gut feeling on which you mark doubtful questions. You have to learn new things and also those concepts that you were very sure of but somehow because of traps in the option, got it wrong. You have to learn 'how to convert knowledge into marks' (Because most of the times, after ending the exam, you regret making mistakes in known concepts).  Secondly, keep a long distance from following too many things at this point. It will always backfire. Once you are here, put complete faith and follow this initiative along with whatever you were doing. It is very important to consolidate your preparation with many revisions. Simply following many things will leave you in despair. You can cross check this with veterans. Everything that seems attractive is not productive. You should always go for productivity. Be wise! Let us pledge to make it a big game changer (better than last year) in the next 60 days of this plan! Importance of Self - Tracking: Learning from Last Year Last year, aspirants used to type/post their answers in the comment box on a daily basis. There were huge participation and discussion below the test post. Putting answers in the comment box has been very effective to self-track yourself after updating the score. In the end, you can cross check your performance through Disqus profile. It was highly effective in the last edition of 60 Days that propelled aspirants to monitor their performance and learn through discussion. Let you solve these questions with full honesty and write your result in the comment box. Interact with peers to know your mistakes. The importance of this initiative stands time-bound and aggressive reverse engineering to learn the concepts. Many of you must be busy with your own strategy but let us tell you honestly that in the last few months, it is very important to revise and consolidate your learning. Just reading won’t suffice. So, take out a few hours from your schedule and make it a revision exercise. How can you make the best use of it? Be honest to your effort and do not start competing with XYZ aspirants just for the sake of marks. It is more important for you to introspect and check your learning than focusing on others. Try to answer the questions in 25 minutes only.  Do not get into negative feeling that I don’t have enough knowledge to answer these questions. Feel like you are taking the real exam. What would be your response then? The same will be replicated in the UPSC exam. Here, you get marks only and nothing else matters. So, make effort to know the answers to all questions. Do not cheat :P DETAILED MICRO ANALYSIS MATRIX SAMPLE- is given here. You can download this and do an assessment for yourself (the excel sheet must be modified as per this years planning. The provided excel sheet is only for reference).  DOWNLOAD You can copy paste the same format/modify as per your need in Google Spreadsheet and update it on daily basis. Feedback talks about daily test results. Follow-up talks about daily target achieved from sources and the number of revisions to do/done and dates. Sources column is to ensure that aspirants do not run behind various sources and follow the same throughout. Would like to end on this quote:  Either you run the day or the day runs you.  Are you ready? Let's start! Important Note Don't forget to post your marks in the comment section. Also, let us know if you enjoyed today's test :)  You can post your comments in the given format  (1) Your Score (2) Matrix Meter (3) New Learning from the Test

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 2nd March 2019

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 2nd March 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Foreign Ministers Meet at OIC Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – India and the World; International Organizations and their mandate. In news: In a major diplomatic move, India hit out at Pakistan during a meeting of Foreign Ministers at the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). The 46th Session of the OIC’s Council of Foreign Ministers was held in Abu Dhabi from March 1 to 2. For the first time, India was invited to an Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) meeting as guest of honour. Highlights: India stressed that the anti-terror fight was not a clash among civilisations. In order to save humanity, it urged to all the states who provide shelter and funding to the terrorists to dismantle the infrastructure of the terrorist camps and stop providing funding and shelter to the terror organisations based in their country. Do you know? India is not a member of the OIC, but was invited to the Abu Dhabi meeting as the guest of honour. The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation is an international organization founded in 1969. Consisting of 57 member states, with a collective population of over 1.8 billion as of 2015 with 40 countries being Muslim Majority countries. The organisation states that it is “the collective voice of the Muslim world” and works to “safeguard and protect the interests of the Muslim world in the spirit of promoting international peace and harmony”. The OIC has permanent delegations to the United Nations and the European Union. The official languages of the OIC are Arabic, English, and French. Despite India having the second largest population of Muslims next to Indonesia in the world, it has not yet found a desirable position within the organisation. For more on OIC, Objectives etc, visit - Organization of the Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and India Fires are a crucial component of some forest systems, says group of scientists Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Environment and Biodiversity; Ecosystem services; Natural Hazards In news: According to the scientists, forest fires have been occurring in India from at least 60,000 years ago, ever since modern humans appeared here. They added that “forests that we think are natural and ‘pristine’ have often been created by anthropogenic burning for thousands of years.” Some scientists said several native trees and plants in these landscapes have “co-evolved” with fire: fire helps revive dormant seeds of many species. Another study revealed that fires, along with seasonal droughts, should not be painted as problematic and need to be considered important drivers of dry deciduous tracts across Andhra Pradesh-Telangana, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. More evidence points to fires even suppressing invasive species. Mukti, an alliance to combat bonded labour Part of: GS Mains II – Role of NGOs or Civil Society Organizations; Social/Welfare issue In news: Over 60 non-governmental organisations (NGOs) from across Karnataka came together to form Mukti. Mukti is an alliance to end bonded labour and human trafficking. The alliance is an excellent example of how various institutions of government, civil society, and concerned citizens have come together to collaborate and address the issue. Order on surveillance meant to protect privacy, govt. tells SC Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II and III – Fundamental Rights; Constitution and Polity; Security issues In news: The Centre told the Supreme Court that its December 20, 2018 notification allowing 10 central agencies to snoop on people is in fact a measure to protect citizens’ privacy. The Order on surveillance allows central agencies, from the Intelligence Bureau to the Central Board of Direct Taxes to the Cabinet Secretariat (RAW) to the Commissioner of Delhi Police, to intercept, monitor and de-crypt “any information” generated, transmitted, received or stored in “any computer resource”. The order is based on Section 69 (1) of the Information Technology Act of 2000 and Rule 4 of the Information Technology 2009 Rules (Procedure and Safeguards for Interception, Monitoring and Decryption of Information) Rules, 2009. Pic: https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2019/03/02/BGL/Bangalore/TH/5_07/d678d7f9_2769759_101_mr.jpg What the government says? Government has said that the very purpose of the order is to ensure that surveillance is done as per due process of law – any interception, monitoring, decryption will be done only by authorised agencies and with approval of competent authority Right to privacy of citizen will not be violated as it prevents unauthorized use of these powers by any agency, individual or intermediary Surveillance is necessary “in the modern world where modern tools of information communication, including encryption, is used Surveillance is done only in the defence of India, to maintain public order, etc. There are grave threats to the country from terrorism, radicalisation, cross border terrorism, cyber-crime, drug cartels and these cannot be ignored or under-stated. There is a need for “speedy collection of actionable intelligence” to counter threat to national interests. Swine flu cases on the rise in Gujarat Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – Health issue; Welfare/Social issue In news: With more than 3000 cases and 99 deaths in two months, Swine Flu in Gujarat has become an epidemic as almost 100 new cases are reported from across the state per day. As per data released by the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP), several States are on alert. The high H1N1 flu toll points to a failure to put necessary systems and precautions in place. Important Value Additions: About H1N1 influenza (or swine flu) H1N1 virus is the subtype of influenza A virus that was the most common cause of human influenza in 2009. H1N1 flu is also known as swine flu caused by swine influenza virus that is endemic in pigs. The ‘H’ stands for hemagglutinin and ‘N’ for neuraminidase – both proteins on the outer layer of the virus. It is a pandemic outbreak – Means Disease outbreak occurs over a wide geographic area and affects a very high proportion of the population. Swine influenza is a respiratory disease that occurs in pigs that is caused by the Influenza A virus. It’s a highly contagious disease that can easily spread from person to person. About Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) IDSP was launched with World Bank assistance in November 2004 to detect and respond to disease outbreaks quickly, for a period up to March 2010. The project was restructured and extended up to March 2012. The project continues in the 12th Plan with domestic budget as Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme under NHM for all States with Budgetary allocation of 640 Cr. Under IDSP data is collected on epidemic prone diseases on weekly basis. Ayushman Bharat cover for Uber cab drivers Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – Health issue; Welfare/Social issue In news: The Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) has joined hands with Uber to extend health cover to their driver and delivery partners. The facility will not be available in Delhi, Odisha and Telangana — States that have not joined AB-PMJAY. Ayushman Bharat National Health Protection Scheme (AB-NHPS) The scheme aims to provide coverage of ₹5 lakh per family annually and benefiting more than 10 crore poor families in the country. AB-NHPM will subsume the on-going centrally sponsored schemes — Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY) and the Senior Citizen Health Insurance Scheme (SCHIS). Salient features of the AB-NHPM scheme: This scheme has the benefit cover of Rs. 5 lakh per family per year. The target beneficiaries of the proposed scheme will be more than 10 crore families belonging to poor and vulnerable population based on SECC database. The Rs. 5 lakh per family a year cover will take care of almost all secondary care and most of tertiary care procedures. To ensure that nobody is left out (especially women, children and elderly) there will be no cap on family size and age in the scheme. The benefit cover will also include pre- and post-hospitalisation expenses. All pre-existing conditions will be covered from day one of the policy. A defined transport allowance per hospitalisation will also be paid to the beneficiary. Also, benefits of the scheme are portable across the country and a beneficiary covered under the scheme will be allowed to take cashless benefits from any public/private empanelled hospital across the country. AB-NHPM will be an entitlement based scheme with entitlement decided on the basis of deprivation criteria in the SECC database. (MAINS FOCUS) WELFARE/ECONOMY TOPIC:General studies 2  Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes; mechanisms, laws, institutions and bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections  General studies 3  Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies and minimum support prices Inclusive growth and issues arising from it. Poverty Alleviation through an Assured Minimum Income Context: We earlier had covered many articles on universal basic income (UBI) To know about UBI Positives of UBI How UBI works? UBI policies in other countries Criticisms Visit the link here – Universal Basic Income Introduction: We know that the idea of a universal basic income (UBI) is gaining ground globally. Concept – A UBI requires the government to pay every citizen a fixed amount of money on a regular basis and without any conditionalities. Why do we need such mechanism? Or Why there is demand for UBI? Millions of people remain unemployed and are extremely poor, despite rapid economic growth in the last three decades. (Especially the landless labourers, agricultural workers and marginal farmers) Vulenerable groups have not benefited from economic growth. UBI is considered a viable way to reform social security to address the shortcomings that the current system is rife with – targeting and delivery. To address the behavioural, design, and implementation downsides in the currently used systems of unemployment and social security benefits. It is proposed as a solution to high inequality and job loss caused by increased automation in the developed countries. Various welfare schemes have also failed to bring them out of penury. We also read about Pradhanmantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana (PM-KISAN) PM Kisan is a limited version of the UBI launched by the current government. It promises ₹6,000 per annum to farmers who own less than 2 hectares of land. However, there are some concerns. Do you know? UBI is neither an antidote to the vagaries of market forces nor a substitute for basic public services, especially health and education. There is no need to transfer money to middle- and high-income earners as well as large landowners. Institutional credit: Less than 15% of the total borrowing by landless agricultural workers and the figure for marginal and small farmers is only 30%. Subsidies for well-off: The benefits of subsidised fertilizers and power are enjoyed largely by big farmers. The way ahead: Assured Minimum Income An income support of, say, ₹15,000 per annum can be a good supplement to their livelihoods. Additional income can reduce the incidence of indebtedness among marginal farmers, thereby helping them escape moneylenders and adhatiyas. It can go a long way in helping the poor to make ends meet. Several studies have shown that even a small income supplement can improve nutrient intake and increase enrolment and school attendance for students coming from poor households. In other words, income transfers to the poor will lead to improved health and educational outcomes, which in turn would lead to a more productive workforce. Transfer the money into the bank accounts of women Women tend to spend more of their income on health and the education of children. It will help bring a large number of households out of the poverty trap or prevent them from falling into it in the event of exigencies such as illness. However, an income transfer scheme cannot be a substitute for universal basic services. The direct income support to the poor will deliver the benefits mentioned only if it comes on top of public services such as primary health and education. In other words, direct transfers should not be at the expense of public services for primary health and education. Budgetary allocation for these services should be raised significantly. Programmes such as the Mahatma Gandhi Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme should also stay. How to make income transfer scheme feasible with limited fiscal space? 1. By better targeting, especially through SECC data, Agricultural Census combined with Aadhar: Direct income support will have to be restricted to the poorest of poor households. Therefore, the Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC) 2011 can be used to identify the groups suffering from multidimensional poverty. Small and marginal farmers who are missing from the SECC can be identified through Agricultural Census. The Aadhaar identity can be used to rule out duplications and update the list of eligible households. 2. By aligning other direct income transfer scheme to it: For instance, PM-KISAN Yojana can be aligned to meet a part of the cost. 3. Sharing fiscal space with States: The required amount is beyond the Centre’s fiscal capacity at the moment. Therefore, the cost will have to be shared by States. 4. Innovating new ways to improve revenue: The tax space can be expanded by reintroducing wealth tax and introducing other innovative tax where tax should not be felt burden to tax payer and at the same time tax collection should be affordable. Conclusion: The income transfer scheme is costly. However, the cost of persistent poverty is much higher. Connecting the dots: Do you think replacing the existing public distribution system and other benefits for the BPL families with a Universal Basic Income (UBI) will be a fiscally prudent decision? Critically analyse. The idea of a Universal Basic Income is gaining traction across the world. Do you think India is prepared to adopt this scheme? Critically evaluate. Discuss the merits and challenges associated with ‘Universal Basic Income’. Why a simple universal basic income will not solve the fundamental problems of the economy? WELFARE/ECONOMY TOPIC:General studies 2  Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population – Fishermen communities General studies 3  Issues related to Fisheries Sector Inclusive growth and issues arising from it Infrastructure Strength to Blue revolution Context: The below article deals with the current government’s proposal to create a separate department for fisheries. Key facts: Fisheries are the primary source of livelihood for several communities in India. India is the world’s second-largest fish producer with exports worth more than Rs 47,000 crore. Fisheries are the country’s single-largest agriculture export, with a growth rate of 6 to 10 per cent in the past five years. Concerns: According to FAO’s State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture reports – 90% of the global marine fish stocks have either been fully-exploited, or over-fished or depleted to an extent that recovery may not be biologically possible. In order to meet the ever-increasing demand for animal protein, global fish production should touch 196 million tonnes by 2025 — it currently stands at 171 million tonnes. India has a marine fisher population of 3.5 million; 10.5 million people are engaged in inland fishery and fish farming. However, the productivity in both sectors is low. Why creation of a separate department for fisheries is a significant step? Fisheries sector significance is often underscored. Therefore, a concentrated effort by an independent department could help the government achieve its objective of doubling farmers’ income and improve exports. India’s fisheries sector faces the challenge of sustainability. A separate department can held to overcome this challenge through dedicated policies to address the challenge of sustainability. India has the potential to bridge the gap between increasing demand and depleting production, provided it concentrates on aquaculture — fish farming. The country has a comparative advantage in this respect. The fisheries sector is one that is in dire need of cold storage facilities, landing points and cold chain. Until now, these have received little focus from policy-makers. The creation of a separate department can help in ensuring coordination of measures such as conservation, regulation and protection of the fishermen’s interests. The department can also focus on concerns like falling catch, marine pollution and potential market opportunities. The creation of the department can help bring in the much required funding for the sector. Blue Revolution scheme Realizing the immense scope for development of fisheries and aquaculture, the Government of India had restructured the Central Plan Scheme under an umbrella of Blue Revolution. It provides for a focused development and management of the fisheries sector to increase both fish production and fish productivity from aquaculture and fisheries resources of the inland and marine fisheries sector including deep sea fishing. Do you know? The scheme adopted a two-pronged approach: Sustainable capture fishery to harness marine and inland water resources and expanding the horizon of fish farming through increased coverage, enhanced productivity, species diversification and better market returns. India’s marine capture fishery comprises largely of small fishermen who operate their vessels or boats in near-shore coastal waters, which are highly overfished. India lacks modernized vessels to capture high value fish stock, which proliferates in the deep seas. Therefore, harnessing these resources sustainably will bring immense benefits to fishing communities. New National Policy on Marine Fisheries The new policy provides guidance for promoting 'Blue Growth Initiative' which focus on ushering 'Blue Revolution'. The policy talks of introducing deep-sea fishing vessels and assisting fishing communities to convert their vessels and gears for the waters beyond. The policy envisages intensive fish farming through increased stocking of seed, better feed quality and diversification of species. Innovative practices such as re-circulatory aquaculture system aim to realise the goal of more crop per drop. The government has invested in hatcheries to meet the ever-increasing demand for good quality fish seed. Productivity of freshwater fish farms and productivity of brackish water coastal aquaculture has gone up. Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund The investment of Rs 3,000 crore in the Blue Revolution is being supplemented through the Rs 7,523-crore Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund. This will meet the capital investment requirement of this sector. Conclusion: India right now has opportunity to introduce large-scale industrial fishing; however, it must also factor in the sustainability challenges and acknowledge that fishing is a primary livelihood activity for a large number of communities and individuals. The policies framed by the new department should aim at enhancing productivity, better returns and increased incomes. Future policies must prioritise seed production in order to attain self-sufficiency in the sector. Open sea cage culture is at a pilot stage and the initial trials have given promising results. This may prove another game changer. The new department will give undivided attention to creating and strengthening infrastructure facilities in marine and inland fisheries and give a boost to aquaculture and post-harvest activities. Connecting the dots: Examine the bottlenecks associated with the current Fisheries Sector in India. Also suggest ways to address them. What is Blue Revolution? Examine why the creation of a separate Fisheries Department is significant. MUST READ The mixed signals from Pakistan The Hindu  Hanoi hiccup: on Kim-Trump summit The Hindu Changing the stripes of conservation The Hindu The road from the brink Indian Express Talk, but not on Kashmir Indian Express  Quota, old plus new Indian Express

PIB

Press Information Bureau (PIB) IAS UPSC – 24th Feb to 2nd March - 2019

Press Information Bureau (PIB) IAS UPSC – 24th Feb to 2nd March - 2019 ARCHIVES GS-2 PM-KISAN scheme (Topic: Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population) About Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana (PM KISAN) The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana (PM-KISAN) was announced in the interim Budget 2019-20. PM KISAN is a Central Sector scheme with 100% funding from Government of India. Under the Scheme, Rs 6,000 will be given per year to small and marginal farmer families having combined land holding/ownership of upto 2 hectares. The amount will be given in three installments of Rs.2000 each. The amount will be transferred directly to the bank account of beneficiaries through Direct Benefit Transfer. DBT will ensure transparency in the entire process and will save time for the farmers. The Scheme was introduced to augment the income of the Small and Marginal Farmers (SMFs). It is estimated to benefit more than 12 crore small and marginal farmers. Eligibility criteria In the database, the land owner's name, gender, Social Classification (Scheduled Tribes / Scheduled Tribes) Aadhaar number, bank account number and mobile number etc. Imitation of agricultural land Khatuani imitation Janshan Bank Account Number, Aadhaar and Mobile Number will help in identifying eligible beneficiaries and incompetent claimants The farmers having cultivated land of two hectare or less than this will be understood eligible for this scheme. The scheme is sponsored by the Central Government. Therefore, the farmers have to be citizens of the country. Significance The PM-KISAN scheme aims to supplement the financial needs of the SMFs in procuring various inputs to ensure proper crop health and appropriate yields, commensurate with the anticipated farm income at the end of the each crop cycle. This would also protect them from falling in the clutches of moneylenders for meeting such expenses and ensure their continuance in the farming activities. National Youth Parliament Festival 2019 (Topic: Important aspects of- governance, transparency and accountability) National Youth Parliament Festival 2019 has been jointly organised by National Service Scheme and Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan under the aegis of Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports on the theme of ‘Be the Voice of New India and Find solutions and Contribute to Policy’. Objectives of organising Youth Parliament. To hear the voice of youth between 18 and less than 25 years of age, who are allowed to vote but cannot stand as a candidate for election, through deliberations in Youth Parliaments at district level and above. To encourage the youth to engage with public issues, understand the common man's point of view, form their opinions and express it in an articulate manner. To develop and enhance decision making abilities. To develop in them a respect and tolerance for the views of others. To develop in them an understanding that respect for rules is essential for conducting any discussion systematically and effectively. To obtain and document their opinions on Vision of New India in 2022. To make available their views to policy makers and implementers to take it forward. About Nehru Yuva Kendras Nehru Yuva Kendras were established in the year 1972 with the objective of providing rural youth avenues to take part in the process of nation building as well providing opportunities for the development of their personality and skills. About National Service Scheme (NSS) The National Service Scheme (NSS) is a Central Sector Scheme of Government of India, Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports. It provides opportunity to the student youth of 11th & 12th Class of schools at +2 Board level and student youth of Technical Institution, Graduate & Post Graduate at colleges and University level of India to take part in various government led community service activities & programmes. The sole aim of the NSS is to provide hands on experience to young students in delivering community service. Since inception of the NSS in the year 1969, the number of students strength increased from 40,000 to over 3.8 million up to the end of March 2018 students in various universities, colleges and Institutions of higher learning have volunteered to take part in various community service programmes. Skill Saathi Youth Conclave in Bhubaneswar. (Topic: Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources.) Skill Saathi is a career counselling initiative of the National Skill Development Corporation, under the aegis of MSDE, to create awareness about the Skill India Mission and guide candidates by providing them with information on career paths and opportunities. The initiative provides information on vocational training programs under Skill India mission, conduct psychometric test and provide face-to-face counselling interventions to guide aspirants to make the right choice of based on their interest and aptitude. The program aims to create a mass movement around skill development in the state and inspire youth to make the most of various skill development opportunities in the country. Objectives The Skill Saathi initiative, it said, has so far mobilised and counselled over 1 lakh candidate in Odisha and over 10 lakh youth across the country in the past three months. The Skill Saathi model was created to impart information on vocational education and available market opportunities to the youth. With the potential Odisha has and with the right intent, together Odisha soon becomes the skill capital of India. Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) (Topic: Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population) The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) Programme launched by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation (MoHUPA), in Mission mode envisions provision of Housing for All by 2022, when the Nation completes 75 years of its Independence. The Mission seeks to address the housing requirement of urban poor including slum dwellers through following programme verticals: Slum rehabilitation of Slum Dwellers with participation of private developers using land as a resource Promotion of Affordable Housing for weaker section through credit linked subsidy Affordable Housing in Partnership with Public & Private sectors Subsidy for beneficiary-led individual house construction /enhancement Beneficiaries The mission seeks to address the housing requirement of urban poor including slum dwellers. A slum is defined as a compact area of at least 300 people or about 60 - 70 households of poorly built congested tenements in unhygienic environment usually with inadequate infrastructure and lacking in proper sanitary and drinking water facilities. Beneficiaries include Economically weaker section (EWS), low-income groups (LIGs) and Middle Income Groups (MIGs). The annual income cap is up to Rs 3 lakh for EWS, Rs 3-6 lakh for LIG and Rs 6 + -18 lakhs for MIG. EWS category of beneficiaries is eligible for assistance in all four verticals of the Missions whereas LIG and MIG categories are eligible under only Credit linked subsidy scheme (CLSS) component of the Mission. For identification as a EWS or LIG beneficiary under the scheme, an individual loan applicant will submit self-certificate/ affidavit as proof of income. A beneficiary family will comprise husband, wife, unmarried sons and/or unmarried daughters. The beneficiary family should not own a pucca house either in his/her name or in the name of any member of his/her family in any part of India to be eligible to receive central assistance under the mission. States/UTs, at their discretion, may decide a cut-off date on which beneficiaries need to be resident of that urban area for being eligible to take benefits under the scheme. Atal Tinkering Labs (ATL) (Topic: Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources.) NITI Aayog’s Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) and Adobe today signed a Statement of Intent (SOI) to collectively drive the charter of developing creative skills and spreading digital literacy across all Atal Tinkering Labs in India. About the agreement Adobe shall be adopting 100 schools under Atal Tinkering Labs (ATL) initiative. Adobe shall be implementing its Digital Disha Program in ATLs , under which free licenses of Adobe Spark premium shall be offered to ATLs. Launched in 2018, the Adobe Digital Disha Programme is aimed at driving synergies in creative thinking and technology-based learning. Under this collaboration with AIM, children and teachers across these schools and communities shall benefit from creative learning resources, thereby empowering them with new age skills to thrive in the current digital era and preparing them for long term success. About Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) AIM is the Government of India’s flagship initiative to promote a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship in the country. As a part of AIM, ATLs are being established in more than 5,000 schools in India where students of class 6th to class 12th acquire problem solving and innovation skills, developing innovative solutions leveraging Tinkering technologies like 3D printers, robotics, miniaturised electronics, IOT and programming, do it yourself kits with support from teachers. The Atal Tinkering Lab is based on the philosophy to identify and nurture innovation in young students across the country. The Atal Innovation Mission proactively seeks to promote scientific temper and the spirit of entrepreneurship. Through various initiatives such as the ATL Community Day, Teacher Training Sessions, ATL Marathon, Student Innovator Program, Tinkerfest etc AIM has successfully integrated students, teachers, mentors, parents and even the governments at the state and local level within a larger fabric of encouraging science skills, digital literacy and creativity. Scheme for Higher Education Youth in Apprenticeship and Skills (SHREYAS)   (Topic: Role of NGOs, SHGs, various groups and associations) Ministry of Human Resource Development launched the Scheme for Higher Education Youth in Apprenticeship and Skills (SHREYAS) for providing industry apprenticeship opportunities to the general graduates exiting in April 2019 through the National Apprenticeship Promotional Scheme (NAPS).The program aims to enhance the employability of Indian youth by providing ‘on the job work exposure’ and earning of stipend. Importance of SHREYAS SHREYAS will be a major effort in this direction to make degree students more skilled, capable and employable and aligned to the needs of our economy so that they contribute to country’s progress and also obtain gainful employment. SHREYAS portal will enable educational institutions and industry to log in and provide their respective demand and supply of apprenticeship. The matching of students with apprenticeship avenues will take place as per pre-specified eligibility criteria. The State Governments are expected to play a major role in securing apprenticeship opportunities, apart from the Sector Skill Councils, so that general degree students passing out in April 2019, gain the option of industry & service sector apprenticeship. Objectives of SHREYAS To improve employability of students by introducing employment relevance into the learning process of the higher education system To forge a close functional link  between education and industry/service sectors on a sustainable basis To provide skills which are in demand, to the students in a dynamic manner To establish an ‘earn while you learn’ system into higher education To help business/industry in securing good quality manpower To link student community with employment facilitating efforts of the Government Operation of the Scheme The primary scheme will be operated in conjunction with National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) which provides for placing of apprentices upto 10% of the total work force in every business/industry.   The scheme will be implemented by the Sector Skill Councils (SSCs) , initially the Banking Finance Insurance Services (BFSI), Retail, Health care, Telecom, Logistics, Media, Management services, ITeS and Apparel.   More sectors would be added over time with emerging apprenticeship demand and curriculum adjustments. GS-3 IPrism (Topic: Issues related to Intellectual Property) The Cell for IPR Promotion and Management (CIPAM), Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, in collaboration with ASSOCHAM and ERICSSON India, has launched the second edition of ‘IPrism’, an Intellectual Property (IP) competition for students of schools, polytechnic institutes, colleges and universities. Objective Aiming to foster a culture of innovation and creativity in the younger generation, the competition will provide young creators an opportunity to see their creations recognized on a national platform. Creating IPR Awareness through outreach and promotional activities is a key objective of the Policy. The Cell for IPR Promotion and Management, set up under the aegis of the DPIIT to fulfil the policy objectives, has been actively involved in many outreach activities including a nation-wide IPR awareness campaign. About CIPAM CIPAM is a professional body under the aegis of the Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion (DIPP) Ministry of Commerce & Industry. Its mandate is to effectively implement National Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Policy adopted in May 2016 with slogan – “Creative India; Innovative India”. It has undertaken several measures to strengthen IP ecosystem in the country. Heat wave risk reduction (Topic: Disaster management) Heat wave has emerged as one of the major severe weather events around the globe in recent years. Climate change is driving temperatures higher as well as increasing the frequency and severity of heat waves. India too is experiencing increased instances of heat waves every year. NDMA has been closely working with vulnerable States to reduce the adverse impacts of heat wave. India too is feeling the impact of climate change in terms of increased instances of heat waves which are more intense in nature with each passing year, and have a devastating impact on human health thereby increasing the number of heat wave casualties. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has given the following criteria for Heat Waves: Heat Wave need not be considered till maximum temperature of a station reaches atleast 40*C for Plains and atleast 30*C for Hilly regions When normal maximum temperature of a station is less than or equal to 40*C Heat Wave Departure from normal is 5*C to 6*C Severe Heat Wave Departure from normal is 7*C or more When normal maximum temperature of a station is more than 40*C Heat Wave Departure from normal is 4*C to 5*C Severe Heat Wave Departure from normal is 6*C or more When actual maximum temperature remains 45*C or more irrespective of normal maximum temperature, heat waves should be declared Health Impacts of Heat Waves The health impacts of Heat Waves typically involve dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and/or heat stroke. The signs and symptoms are as follows: Heat Cramps: Ederna (swelling) and Syncope (Fainting) generally accompanied by fever below 39*C i.e.102*F. Heat Exhaustion: Fatigue, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle cramps and sweating. Heat Stoke: Body temperatures of 40*C i.e. 104*F or more along with delirium, seizures or coma. This is a potential fatal condition Sustained efforts Timely release and effective implementation of the national Guidelines on heat wave, preparation of Heat Action Plans by 13 vulnerable States. Regular follow-up and monitoring by NDMA, extensive awareness generation campaigns through print, electronic and social media, preparedness workshops in 2017 and 2018 - have significantly brought down the number of heat-related deaths in the past few years.  From more than 2,000 deaths in 2015, the number came down to 25 in 2018. IEA Bioenergy TCP (Topic: Infrastructure-Energy security) International Energy Agency's Technology Collaboration Programme on Bioenergy (IEA Bioenergy TCP) is an international platform for co-operation among countries with the aim of improving cooperation and information exchange between countries that have national programmes in bioenergy research, development and deployment. IEA Bioenergy TCP works under the framework of International Energy Agency (IEA) to which India has "Association" status since 30th March, 2017. Goals and benefits of IEA Bioenergy TCP It facilitate the market introduction of advanced biofuels with an aim to bring down emissions and reduce crude imports. IEA Bioenergy TCP also provides a platform for international collaboration and information exchange in bioenergy research, technology development, demonstration, and policy analysis with a focus on overcoming the environmental, institutional, technological, social, 'and market barriers to the near-and long-term deployment of bioenergy technologies. Engagement with International Agencies will also apprise the Ministry of the developments taking place Worldwide in Biofuel sector, provide opportunity of personal interaction with innovators/ Researchers and help in bringing suitable policy ecosystem. SATAT scheme (Topic: Infrastructure-Energy security) Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas has launched Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable Transportation (SATAT) aimed at providing sustainable alternative towards affordable transportation. The initiative was launched with PSU Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs i.e. IOC, BPCL and HPCL). SATAT was launched with a four-pronged agenda Utilising more than 62 million metric tonnes of waste generated every year in India, Cutting down import dependence Supplementing job creation in the country Reducing vehicular emissions and pollution from burning of agricultural / organic waste. Compressed Bio-Gas (CBG) Bio-gas is produced naturally through a process of anaerobic decomposition from waste / bio-mass sources like agriculture residue, cattle dung, sugarcane press mud, municipal solid waste, sewage treatment plant waste, etc. After purification, it is compressed and called CBG, which has pure methane content of over 90%. Compressed Bio-Gas is exactly similar to the commercially available natural gas in its composition and energy potential. CBG can be used as an alternative, renewable automotive fuel. Given the abundance of biomass in the country, CBG has the potential to replace CNG in automotive, industrial and commercial uses in the coming years. Benefits from converting agricultural residue Responsible waste management, reduction in carbon emissions and pollution Additional revenue source for farmers Boost to entrepreneurship, rural economy and employment Support to national commitments in achieving climate change goals Reduction in import of natural gas and crude oil Buffer against crude oil/gas price fluctuations Please Note: India hosts ‘4th Global Digital Health Partnership Summit’: The Global Digital Health Partnership (GDHP) is an international collaboration of governments, government agencies and multinational organisations dedicated to improving the health and well-being of their citizens through the best use of evidence-based digital technologies. Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Prizes for Science and Technology : The Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Prize, named after the founder Director of the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research, Dr Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar, is given annually to recognize outstanding Indian work in various disciplines of Science and Technology. Gandhi Peace Prize: The Gandhi Peace Prize was presented to the Vivekananda Kendra, Kanyakumari for 2015, jointly to the Akshaya Patra Foundation and the Sulabh International for 2016, to the Ekal Abhiyan Trust for 2017, and to Shri Yohei Sasakawa for 2018. Quotes: President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind During Gandhi Peace Price In his advocacy of sustainability, ecological sensitivity and living in harmony with nature, he anticipated some of the pressing challenges of our times. The Sustainable Development Goals adopted by the United Nations are Gandhian philosophy in action. Vice President of India, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu On health care sector From the Surakshit Mathritva Abhiyan to secure maternal health to Mission Indradhanush that aims to achieve 100 percent child vaccination by 2022 to the opening of more than 3000 Jan Aushadhi Kendras to provide affordable medicines, efforts are being made to envision and deploy out of the box, inclusive healthcare solutions. To crystallize Universal Healthcare (UHC) or Universal Health Assurance (UHA), we must focus upon safeguarding the health and wellbeing of the vulnerable sections of our population, the women, the children, the poor and the differently abled. Mental wellbeing is crucial and complementary to physical wellbeing, especially in the high stress environment that we live and work in. To crystallize Universal Healthcare (UHC) or Universal Health Assurance (UHA), we must focus upon safeguarding the health and wellbeing of the vulnerable sections of our population, the women, the children, the poor and the differently abled. On operations of Indian Air Force Peace loving pacifist India not weak; can strike against disruptive terror designs. On education Education we impart must lead to self-discovery, enlightenment and awakening of an individual. Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi During Gandhi Peace Price Mahatma Gandhi had merged the streams of Jan Bhagidari (public participation) and Jan Andolan (mass movement).

60 Days Plan 2019 - Daily Prelims Test

60 Days Plan: UPSC IAS Prelims 2019- Polity and Current Affairs (Day 1)

60 Day plan has been published on the website (www.iasbaba.com - Click here). Since we have come up with the 'Quiz Format', it will not be feasible to publish it on the app. For feasibility and getting to know where you stand among your peers (we have a leaderboard which gives your marks and rank) it would be advisable to take the test on the website. All the best. make the best use of the initiative ! Before taking the Test, read the post below, DOWNLOAD THE FULL PLAN Hello Friends,  The most beloved 60 Days has finally begun :) Once again the time has come for the battle (Prelims). And who else than your best companion in the last preparatory phase for Prelims i.e 60 days plan. It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.  Hope the message given above makes sense to you all. The productive utilization of this programme demands consistency, honesty, faith and strong determination to be in the process of learning and unlearning. You might not be fully prepared to solve all the questions but the learning and unlearning through these questions will prepare you for the real battle on 2nd June 2019. You have to unlearn your repetitive mistakes, gut feeling on which you mark doubtful questions. You have to learn new things and also those concepts that you were very sure of but somehow because of traps in the option, got it wrong. You have to learn 'how to convert knowledge into marks' (Because most of the times, after ending the exam, you regret making mistakes in known concepts).  Secondly, keep a long distance from following too many things at this point. It will always backfire. Once you are here, put complete faith and follow this initiative along with whatever you were doing. It is very important to consolidate your preparation with many revisions. Simply following many things will leave you in despair. You can cross check this with veterans. Everything that seems attractive is not productive. You should always go for productivity. Be wise! Let us pledge to make it a big game changer (better than last year) in the next 60 days of this plan! Importance of Self - Tracking: Learning from Last Year Last year, aspirants used to type/post their answers in the comment box on a daily basis. There were huge participation and discussion below the test post. Putting answers in the comment box has been very effective to self-track yourself after updating the score. In the end, you can cross check your performance through Disqus profile. It was highly effective in the last edition of 60 Days that propelled aspirants to monitor their performance and learn through discussion. Let you solve these questions with full honesty and write your result in the comment box. Interact with peers to know your mistakes. The importance of this initiative stands time-bound and aggressive reverse engineering to learn the concepts. Many of you must be busy with your own strategy but let us tell you honestly that in the last few months, it is very important to revise and consolidate your learning. Just reading won’t suffice. So, take out a few hours from your schedule and make it a revision exercise. How can you make the best use of it? Be honest to your effort and do not start competing with XYZ aspirants just for the sake of marks. It is more important for you to introspect and check your learning than focusing on others. Try to answer the questions in 25 minutes only.  Do not get into negative feeling that I don’t have enough knowledge to answer these questions. Feel like you are taking the real exam. What would be your response then? The same will be replicated in the UPSC exam. Here, you get marks only and nothing else matters. So, make effort to know the answers to all questions. Do not cheat :P DETAILED MICRO ANALYSIS MATRIX SAMPLE- is given here. You can download this and do an assessment for yourself (the excel sheet must be modified as per this years planning. The provided excel sheet is only for reference).  DOWNLOAD You can copy paste the same format/modify as per your need in Google Spreadsheet and update it on daily basis. Feedback talks about daily test results. Follow-up talks about daily target achieved from sources and the number of revisions to do/done and dates. Sources column is to ensure that aspirants do not run behind various sources and follow the same throughout. Would like to end on this quote:  Either you run the day or the day runs you.  Are you ready? Let's start! Important Note Don't forget to post your marks in the comment section. Also, let us know if you enjoyed today's test :)  You can post your comments in the given format  (1) Your Score (2) Matrix Meter (3) New Learning from the Test

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 1st March 2019

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 1st March 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Cabinet clears voluntary use of Aadhaar as identity proof Part of: GS Mains II – National issue; Right to Privacy; Governance issues In news: Cabinet approved the promulgation of an Ordinance to allow voluntary submission of Aadhaar as identity proof for use by private entities such as banks, telcos and fintech firms. The Ordinance also gives a child an option to exit from Aadhaar on attaining 18 years of age. The amendment also provides for civil penalties for violations of the Aadhaar Act and provisions by entities in the Aadhaar ecosystem. It permits the entities to perform authentication only when they are compliant with the standards of privacy and security specified by the authority. Do you know? No individual shall be compelled to provide proof of possession of Aadhaar number or undergo authentication for the purpose of establishing his identity unless it is so provided by a law made by Parliament. The amendments will enable UIDAI to restrain the misuse of Aadhaar. National Mineral Policy 2019 Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Indian economy and development In news: The Union Cabinet approved the National Mineral Policy 2019. The New National Mineral Policy will ensure more effective regulation. It will lead to sustainable mining sector development in future while addressing the issues of project affected persons especially those residing in tribal areas. The aim of National Mineral Policy 2019 is to have a more effective, meaningful and implementable policy that brings in further transparency, better regulation and enforcement, balanced social and economic growth as well as sustainable mining practices. Do you know? The new National Mineral Policy 2019 replaces the extant National Mineral Policy 2008 (“NMP 2008”) which was announced in year 2008. The impetus to review NMP 2008 came about by way of a direction from the Supreme Court vide its judgment in 2017 in Writ Petition entitled Common Cause v/s Union of India & Others. Provisions under National Mineral Policy 2019 Introduction of Right of First Refusal for RP/PL holders Encouraging the private sector to take up exploration. Auctioning in virgin areas for composite RP cum PL cum ML on revenue share basis. Encouragement of merger and acquisition of mining entities and transfer of mining leases and creation of dedicated mineral corridors to boost private sector mining areas. Proposes to grant status of industry to mining activity to boost financing of mining for private sector and for acquisitions of mineral assets in other countries by private sector. It also mentions that Long term import export policy for mineral will help private sector in better planning and stability in business. It mentions rationalize reserved areas given to PSUs which have not been used and to put these areas to auction, which will give more opportunity to private sector for participation. It mentions to make efforts to harmonize taxes, levies & royalty with world benchmarks to help private sector. Include the focus on make in India initiative and Gender sensitivity in terms of the vision. In so far as the regulation in Minerals is concerned, E-Governance, IT enabled systems, awareness and Information campaigns have been incorporated. Regarding the role of state in mineral development online public portal with provision for generating triggers at higher level in the event of delay of clearances has been put in place. Aims to attract private investment through incentives while the efforts would be made to maintain a database of mineral resources and tenements under mining tenement systems. Focusses on use coastal waterways and inland shipping for evacuation and transportation of minerals and encourages dedicated mineral corridors to facilitate the transportation of minerals. The utilization of the district mineral fund for equitable development of project affected persons and areas. The 2019 Policy also introduces the concept of Inter-Generational Equity that deals with the well-being not only of the present generation but also of the generations to come and also proposes to constitute an inter-ministerial body to institutionalize the mechanism for ensuring sustainable development in mining. Software product policy 2019 Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Indian economy and development In news: The Union Cabinet approved the National Policy on Software Products 2019. It aims to help the industry grow at CAGR of 40% to reach $70-80 billion by 2025, while creating employment opportunities for 3.5 million people. Initially an outlay of ₹1,500 crore is being planned for various schemes under in policy in the next seven years. Further, the policy proposes to create a ₹5,000-crore fund with industry participation to promote emerging technology such as Internet of Things, Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, Big Data and robotics. Of this, government contribution will be ₹1,000 crore. Significance of the Policy: Promoting ecosystem ‘Software Product Development Fund’ will participate in venture funds having objectives aligned to this policy and so can leverage private investments targeted to promote software product ecosystem.The SPDF will be financially managed by a professional financial institution. Presently, total revenue of IT-ITeS industry in India is pegged at about $168 billion (including e-commerce), with revenue of about $7.1 billion from software product industry, of which $2.3 billion is from exports. Tenfold rise The policy, which aims to increase share of Indian software products in global market by tenfold, pitches for nurturing of 10,000 technology start-ups in software product industry, including 1,000 such start-ups in tier-II and tier-III towns. It also proposes up-skilling of 10 lakh IT professionals as well specialise 10,000 professionals to “provide leadership. Rhinos without borders Part of: GS prelims and Mains III – Animal conservation; Environment and Biodiversity In news: International boundaries will not come in the way of conservation of rhinos. The New Delhi Declaration was adopted during the second meeting of the Asian rhino range countries. Experts had noted that trans-boundary collaboration is needed between India, Nepal, and Bhutan for the conservation and protection of the greater one-horned rhino. There are no rhinos in Bhutan, but some from the Manas National Park in adjoining Assam or Buxa Tiger Reserve in West Bengal are known to cross over occasionally. Miscellaneous: Another push at UNSC to ban Azhar : : Three permanent members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), the U.S., U.K and France, have made a ‘listing request’ to the UNSC, asking for a travel ban, arms embargo and asset freeze on Pakistan-based Jaish-e Mohammad (JeM) leader Masood Azhar. By 2040, Arctic summers may turn ice-free : : The Arctic Ocean could experience ice-free summers within the next 20 years much earlier than previously predicted unless human greenhouse gas emissions are greatly reduced, a study warns. (MAINS FOCUS) INTERNATIONAL TOPIC:General studies 2  Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests ;  India and the World ; India and its neighbourhood- relations.  Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India's interests, Indian diaspora Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate Organization of the Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and India Why in news? The 46th Session of the OIC's Council of Foreign Ministers will be held in Abu Dhabi from March 1 to 2. For the first time, India has been invited to an Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) meeting as guest of honour. About OIC: The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) is the second largest inter-governmental organization after the United Nations It has membership of 57 states spread over four continents. It is an organisation of the collective voice of the Muslim world. Objectives: The main motive of the organisation is to the safeguard and protect the interests of the Muslim world in the spirit of promoting international peace and harmony among various people of the world. The Organization was established upon a decision of the historical summit which took place in Rabat, Kingdom of Morocco 25 September 1969 as a result of criminal arson of Al-Aqsa Mosque in occupied Jerusalem. Governing Bodies of OIC The Islamic Summit, composed of Kings and Heads of State and Government of Member States, is the supreme authority of the Organization. It convenes once every three years to take policy decisions and provide guidance on all issues pertaining to the realization of the objectives and consider other issues of concern to the Member States and the Ummah. The Council of Foreign Ministers, which meets once a year, considers the means for the implementation of the general policy of the Organization by, inter alia: Adopting decisions and resolutions on matters of common interest in the implementation of the objectives and the general policy of the Organization; Reviewing progress of the implementation of the decisions and resolutions adopted at the previous Summits and Councils of Foreign Ministers; The General Secretariat, which is the executive organ of the Organization, entrusted with the implementation of the decisions of the two preceding bodies. Do you know? Invitation comes when India has been mounting diplomatic pressure to isolate Pakistan internationally following the Pulwama terror attack in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed. The OIC has usually been supportive of Pakistan and, often sided with Islamabad on the Kashmir issue. OIC had denied India a seat when the grouping started. India and Islamic World In the last few years, India has improved ties with the Islamic world from Saudi Arabia to Indonesia, while building on good relations with countries like Qatar and Oman. While it was Bangladesh that floated the idea of India becoming an observer at the OIC in 2018, the UAE invite offered India an opportunity to address the forum. The Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan (MBZ), was a very special Chief Guest at the 68th Republic Day celebrations in 2017, the first time that India laid out the Republic Day red carpet for a leader who was neither a Head of State nor Head of Government. The Crown Prince MBZ had earlier visited India in February 2016, following a visit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the UAE in August 2015. Recently, Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Salman visited India. Conclusion: All these are indication of India’s improved ties with both Saudi and the UAE, and the Gulf region as a whole. The increased engagement is also rooted in the shared interest between India and the Arab conservatives in blunting the edge of religious extremism and terrorism. Equally important has been the region’s growing economic and energy interdependence with India, which is emerging as the world’s third-largest economy and one of the biggest hydrocarbon importers and labour exporters. Connecting the dots: Have you witnessed a transformation in India’s Middle East strategy in recent years? Analyse. What is Organisation of Islamic Cooperation? Discuss its objectives and also discuss the significance of OIC’s first-time invitation to India. MUST READ Living on the edge The Hindu Nigeria’s difficult democratic journey The Hindu Good, Bad, Ugly  Indian Express A law for the CBI Indian Express Wider and deeper Indian Express The Central Statistics Office is an institution that matters Livemint CPSU scheme won’t do the trick for domestic solar firms Livemint

Motivational Articles

Creative Guidance – Negative Selftalk – Inspirational Educative Articles

Negative Self-Talk: It is impossible to achieve anything big without believing in yourself fully and possessing total self-confidence. All of us possess some amount of self-confidence, otherwise we cannot even survive. But the amount of self-confidence that is needed to survive and that is needed to achieve something great is significantly different. Most of us don’t pause and observe our levels of self-confidence. In a mad rush to reach somewhere we become blind to one of the most important qualities that can help us to succeed. Self-confidence is one of the most important qualities that is required if one has to succeed. Knowing one’s level of self-confidence can make all the difference between success and failure. So, how do we assess our self-confidence levels? The easiest way to know our self-confidence levels is by observing the conversations we have with ourselves. Throughout the day we keep talking to ourselves about what has happened, what will happen, the consequences of actions and so many other things. Paying close attention this conversation will reveal a great deal about our self-confidence levels. If there is excess negative self talk, then it is a clear indication of lack of self-confidence. Many possess the potential to do something big, but they lack the necessary self-confidence. The single biggest reason for this is negative self talk; I cannot do this, I am not talented, I am not fast enough, I am not smart enough, I don’t have the right knowledge, probably next time, may be not now. Negative self-talk is not just an indicator of lack of self-confidence, it is also the inducer of lack of self-confidence. The more you keep talking to yourself in negative language, the more it becomes a part of your reality. We need to remember that our mind is very powerful. Thoughts become things. Negative thoughts and negative conversations will eventually become our reality. The easiest way to change this and develop self-confidence is by changing the way you talk to yourself. Having a positive attitude and having positive conversations with yourself will improve your self-confidence levels significantly. Irrespective of the reality around, it is possible to always be in a positive state of mind. It requires a little bit of will power and more importantly it requires your total understanding that negative self talk can destroy your self-confidence. This might sound a little crazy, but try this anyways. Pay very close attention to what you keep telling yourself throughout the day. Change every negative statement into a positive statement. Don’t worry about the statement being right or wrong. Just change every negative statement into a positive statement. Do this continuously for one week and observe the tremendous changes that happen within you. Negative self talk is the single biggest destroyer self-confidence. By changing the way you talk to yourself, you can change your life. Give it a try. “This article is a part of the creative endeavor of Inner Revolution and IASBABA.”

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 28th February 2019

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 28th February 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) IAF’s Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman held captive by Pak Army Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II - International relations; India and its neighbour relations In news: IAF plane was shot down and pilot has been held captive by Pakistan Army. India has demanded that the pilot be treated in accordance to Geneva Convention of 1929. Do you know? The Geneva Conventions and their Additional Protocols sets out how soldiers and civilians should be treated during armed conflict. The Geneva Conventions is a body of Public International Law, also known as the Humanitarian Law of Armed Conflicts, whose purpose is to provide minimum protections, standards of humane treatment, and fundamental guarantees of respect to individuals who become victims of armed conflicts. Important Value Additions: About the Geneva Conventions Adopted first in 1864 for the "Amelioration of the Condition of the Wounded in Armies in the Field," the Geneva Conventions, understood in the present form, evolved through centuries as an agreement that extensively defines the basic rights of the civilian and military personnel imprisoned during the time of a war. The first Geneva Convention came about due to the efforts of Swiss businessman and founder of the Red Cross society Henry Dunant after he published a book proposing the establishment of an organisation for relief work and humanitarian aid in wartime. Thereafter, up to 1949, the conventions were updated several times. At present, the conventions comprise four treaties that mark out the benchmark of international law for humanitarian treatment in the event of a war and a total of 196 countries have ratified it. Prisoners of War (POWs) The rules protecting prisoners of war (POWs) are specific. They were first detailed in the 1929 Geneva Convention and later amended in the third 1949 Geneva Convention following the lessons of World War II. Note: But since India and Pakistan have not declared a state of war against each other, pilot Abhinandan cannot be considered a POW. Geneva protocols Protocol 1 expands protection for the civilian population as well as military and civilian medical workers in international armed conflicts. Protocol 2 elaborates on protections for victims caught up in high-intensity internal conflicts such as civil wars. It does not apply to internal disturbances such as riots, demonstrations and isolated acts of violence. Protocol 3 provides for another distinctive emblem: the red crystal. The red crystal is an optional emblem, equal in status to the red cross and red crescent. The four Geneva Conventions Convention 1: This convention protects wounded and infirm soldiers and ensures humane treatment without discrimination founded on race, color, sex, religion or faith, birth or wealth, etc. The convention prohibits torture, assaults upon personal dignity, and execution without judgment. It also grants the right to proper medical treatment and care. Convention 2: This agreement extended the protections described in the first convention to shipwrecked soldiers and other naval forces, including special protections afforded to hospital ships. Convention 3: this defined ‘Prisoner of War,’ and accorded such prisoners proper and humane treatment as specified by the first convention. Specifically, it required POWs to give only their names, ranks, and serial numbers to their captors. Nations party to the convention may not use torture to extract information from POWs. Convention 4: Under this convention, civilians are afforded the same protections from inhumane treatment and attack afforded to sick and wounded soldiers in the first convention. Applicability of the Geneva Conventions The conventions apply to all cases of declared war between signatory nations. The conventions apply to all cases of armed conflict between two or more signatory nations, even in the absence of a declaration of war. The conventions apply to a signatory nation even if the opposing nation is not a signatory, but only if the opposing nation ‘accepts and applies the provisions’ of the conventions. Andhra Pradesh gets new South Coast Railway zone Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Infrastructure; Railways In news: The Centre announced the creation of a separate railway zone in Andhra Pradesh The new zone, South Coast Railway (SCoR), would comprise the existing Guntakal, Guntur and Vijayawada divisions. Additionally, the Waltair division would be bifurcated. Pic: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Hyderabad/article22724846.ece/ALTERNATES/FREE_960/12hy%20railway%20zonecol Do you know? A separate railway zone was one of the key promises made to Andhra Pradesh in the bifurcation act. As per item 8 of Schedule 13 (Infrastructure) of the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014, Indian Railways was required to examine establishing a new railway zone in the successor State of Andhra Pradesh. The matter has been examined in detail in consultation with stakeholders and it has been decided to go ahead with creation of a new zone with headquarters at Visakhapatnam. At present, South Central Railway has six divisions — Secunderabad, Hyderabad, Vijayawada, Guntakal, Guntur and Nanded. With the formation of a new zone, the SCR would comprise Hyderabad, Secunderabad and Nanded divisions. 42 cancer drugs brought under price control Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II - Health issue; Government polciies and schemes In news: The government has brought 42 non-scheduled anti-cancer drugs under price control, capping trade margin at 30%, which would reduce their retail prices by up to 85%. The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) has invoked extraordinary powers in public interest, under Para 19 of the Drugs (Prices Control) Order, 2013 to bring 42 non-scheduled anti-cancer drugs under price control. As per data available with NPPA, the MRP for 105 brands will be reduced up to 85%, entailing minimum savings of ₹105 crore to consumers. Currently, 57 anti-cancer drugs are under price control as scheduled formulations. Now, 42 non-scheduled anti-cancer medicines have been selected for price regulation by restricting trade margin on the selling price (MRP) up to 30%, the notification said. Govt. detects ₹20,000 cr. GST evasion, ₹10,000 cr. Recovered Part of: GS Paper II - Economic Development In news: The government has detected ₹20,000 crore worth GST evasion so far this fiscal and will take more steps to check frauds and increase compliance. GST evasion worth ₹20,000 crore had been detected, of which ₹10,000 crore was recovered.   (MAINS FOCUS) INTERNATIONAL/SECURITY ISSUE TOPIC:General studies 2 and 3 Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests ;  India and the World ; India and its neighbourhood- relations.  Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests Role of external state and nonstate actors in creating challenges to internal security Security challenges and their management India-Pakistan: Time to reset our relations Introduction: India made its point loud and clear, locally and globally, by striking against terror and then rebuffing an adventurous attack. After the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) precision strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed terror camp at Balakot, an impetuous Pakistan retaliated the following day, but was quickly prevented or thwarted. Pakistan claimed an Indian MiG fighter was shot down and its pilot captured; India said a Pakistani F-16 aircraft was destroyed. Undoubtedly, it’s a war-type situation, with nobody likely to understand after much thought what’s next. Why both the countries should avoid such war-type situation? As Chinese military strategist Sun Tzu said: Battles are won before they are fought. For, they are fought in the meadows of the mind or at the desks of diplomacy. And talking wins the day. Reaction from most countries has centred around the customary call to the parties concerned to engage in talks and sort out matters peacefully. China too has called for restraint. So have been the Saudis. Pakistan’s economy in distress – According to a UN report, Pakistan’s economy is projected to slow down markedly in 2019 and 2020 to below 4%, after an estimated expansion of 5.4% in 2018. With its economy in distress, Pakistan should realize its days of conducting low-intensity terror campaigns are over. They can’t afford the costs for running such proxy wars, when Pakistan is currently seeking a bailout from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). De-escalation is the solution A quick release of IAF pilot Abhinandan Varthaman captured by Pakistan and handing over Masood Azhar may just be the perfect way for Pakistan to de-escalate matters. Clearly, the battle needs to shift to the theatre of negotiation. India should set the agenda by fetching Pakistan to the table, influencing Pakistan’s allies, and playing the role of a regional power that seeks mutually beneficial solutions. Conclusion: Terrorism is not a problem that can be solved by eliminating a few individuals in terrorist camps. Terrorism is a complex social behavioural problem. The decision of becoming a terrorist results from the interplay of contexts and influences of narratives sold to these sensitive social groups at the bottom of the pyramid, which gradually converts an otherwise normal person into a destructive one. Terrorism has different stages, much like a building having various floors. The largest number of people are on the ground floor. India should focus on a different type of a surgical strike; it’s a strike that could push Pakistan out of its terror past and military dependency. It won’t come soon, but it’s worth a start. Connecting the dots: Terrorism cannot be stopped by attacking terror camps; it requires a deeper understanding of vulnerable social groups. Substantiate. Essay: “Every battle is won before it's ever fought.” WELFARE/SOCIAL ISSUE TOPIC:General studies 2  Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes Rights and Welfare of STs, SCs, and OBCs - Schemes & their Performance, Mechanisms, Laws Institutions and Bodies Supreme Court suspends order evicting forest dwellers Context: The recent Supreme Court judgment on the eviction of forest dwellers (especially STs and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers) had evoked much ire and anxiety. The apex court’s order would displace more than a million people from their homes in the forests. Many had raised the questions on the responsibility of the apex court in upholding constitutional claims and equal citizenship as this order negates the claims of citizen under special protection of the Constitution. The Centre and the Gujarat government had moved petitions in the Supreme Court seeking a stay on its order. Do you know? The Parliament had passed the Forest Rights Act in 2006. This law gave back to traditional forest dwellers their rights to access, manage and govern forest lands and resources within village boundaries, which had been controlled by the forest department since colonial times. The law made the gram sabha the statutory body for managing forestlands, and protecting them. It provides that no activity should be carried out in these forests until individual and community claims over them have been settled. A 2014 report of a high-level committee on socio-economic, health and educational status of tribal communities in India (Virginius Xaxa Committee) noted that – “Gram sabhas were rejecting claims of forest-dwellers without assigning reasons”. The report had pointed out that the rejections are not being communicated to the claimants, and their right to appeal is not being explained to them nor its exercise facilitated. Pic: https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2019/02/28/CNI/Chennai/TH/5_07/eb26a389_2764279_101_mr.jpg Now in news: Supreme Court put on hold its recent order asking states to evict forest-dwellers whose claims on land had been rejected under the Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006. The court’s decision to review its earlier verdict is welcome. The apex court acknowledged the need to ask whether due processes were followed by gram sabhas and state authorities before the claims for forest rights were rejected. State governments must now take the cue and ensure that due processes are followed in deciding — or rejecting — FRA claims. The forest land claims of these tribes and forest dwellers, who live off the forest, are mostly rejected by the States. Being poor and illiterate people who live in remote areas, they do not know the appropriate procedure for filing claims, the government submitted. The gram sabhas, which initiate the verification of their claims, are low on awareness about how to deal with these claims and rejection orders are not even communicated to the forest-dwelling STs and communities. There is a need for awareness and sensitisation of field staff about the symbiotic relationship of forest dwelling scheduled tribes and other traditional forest dwellers with forests and forest ecosystems. Connecting the dots: Critically analyze the recent Supreme Court order directed various state governments to initiate the process of eviction of Scheduled Tribes (STs) and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (OTFDs) from forestland. Essay: The strength of India’s democracy is that it recognises the pluralism of Indian society. MUST READ Tailing a virus The Hindu The vexatious question of Masood Azhar The Hindu  A patchwork approach to GST problems The Hindu Manufacturing unanimity The Hindu With pre-emptive strike, IAF demonstrated ability to perform complex missions Indian Express Rules for the machine Indian Express

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