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INTERVIEW MENTORSHIP PROGRAMME (IMP) - Workshop

Dear Friends, Congrats to those who have cleared UPSC mains! Many of you are yet to check the results! And for those who did not, there are definitely better things ahead provided you take time out to reflect on how you make a better version of yourself! The beauty of UPSC is that it pushes to exalt you to the highest potential you have! So if you have not cleared the exam then you have not reached your highest potential yet! And we at IASbaba are always with you at each and every step! And now coming to the all-important IASbaba's workshop for the interview! As you know and have heard IASbaba conducts the most unique workshop for IAS. We start with analysing your traits and how to modify them to what UPSC needs a bureaucrat to be! It is a 3-hour session which brings about tangible changes in your attitude and approach! And the results are to be seen! We predicted a top 10, top 20 ranks to get so and so marks and then have got exact ( a mark less to be precise) The workshop will be conducted by Yeshwanth G V (IAS who himself scored 195 in one of the toughest board!) and Kumar Vivek, IRS both on pro bono basis and the entire IAS baba team. IASbaba team looks forward to help you put your name in the coveted list! Instructions: It is a FREE Workshop Get a print out of your DAF (mandatory) Register Here – Click Here Venue and Date - Bangalore Date: 23rd December 2018 (11 AM – 2 PM) Venue: 2nd floor, Ganapathi Circle, Chandra Layout, Above CarzSpa, 2nd Floor, Chandra Layout, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560072 Venue and Date – Delhi (To be announced by Sunday)

RSTV Video

RSTV IAS UPSC – Women in Combat Role

Women in Combat Role Archives TOPIC: General Studies 3 Defence In News: Army Chief General Bipin Rawat said there are women officers engaged in exercises like mining and de-mining operations and also manning the air defence system, but cited difficulties in assigning them frontline combat roles. In frontline combat there are risks of officers getting killed. And when body bags come back, our country is not ready to see that. Right now, what we are engaged in right now is a proxy war, like in Kashmir. There are also logistical reasons behind not posting women on frontlines. (Separate changing rooms, bathrooms, quarters, etc.) Issue: Women currently serve in a variety of combat units, from aviation and co-ed border-security battalions, to battlefield medicine and air defense. But front-line, direct-combat ground units, still employ only men. Although the Indian Air Force in July last year inducted three women - Mohana Singh, Avani Chaturvedi and Bhawana Kanth - as the first female fighter pilots. The Indian Navy has also offered permanent commission to women officers. In 2016, it started with a modest group of seven and vowed to expand the numbers. The Indian Navy is currently deliberating on a policy on having women onboard the ships. The Navy allows women in various other segments including in legal, logistics, naval architecture and engineering departments. Arguments: Against women in combat roles On average, men are taller and heavier than women. They have stronger bones, ligaments and tendons, greater muscle mass, and better oxygen carrying capacity. Women are approximately two-thirds as strong as men in the lower body and half as strong in the upper body. Since women in combat are prone to injuries at double the rate of men, integrated units will invariably suffer from higher attrition, and increased evacuation efforts will also take their toll. A significant increase in disability compensation for injured women veterans is also a consequence to consider. What does the Indian army have to say? Firstly, they will start with women as military police jawans. The roles of military police include policing the cantonments and Army establishments, prevent breach of rules and regulations by soldiers, maintaining movement of soldiers as well as logistics during peace and war, handling prisoners of war and extending aid to the civil police whenever required. The army does require continuity and permanency in certain fields and male officers do not fit the bill everywhere in a command-oriented Army. The force needs language interpreters given that military diplomacy is gaining currency. So, they are looking at women interpreters who will naturally be linguistically proficient and militarily sound. Conclusion: Women IPS officers are also working in very dangerous circumstances and they command respect of their male counterparts and subordinates, even from those who are from rural areas. Therefore, the arguments need to be relooked into. Also, a study from both sides of the topic is imperative to take a final call. There is no argument that points that physiologically, physically and psychologically, men are superior to women. This does not warrant discrimination on facts that have not been proven yet. Note: Only countries such as Germany, Australia, Canada, the U.S., Britain, Denmark, Finland, France, Norway, Sweden and Israel have allowed women in combat roles. Connecting the Dots: For every frontier touched or broken by women that frontier should be sustained with more and more women. Discuss.

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2019 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 134]

UPSC Quiz - 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 134] Archives Q.1) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB)’ It is set up under the Ministry of AYUSH The primary mandate of NMPB is to develop an appropriate mechanism for coordination between various ministries/ departments/ organization and implementation of support policies for overall growth of medicinal plants sector at the Central, State and International level Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) Which of the following are correctly matched? Ayush-64 – Malaria Ayush-82 - Type –II Diabetes Ayush SG - Rheumatoid arthritis Select the correct code: 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.3) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Non-Lapsable Central Pool of Resources (NLCPR)’ It ensure speedy development of infrastructure in the North Eastern Region by increasing the flow of budgetary financing for new infrastructure projects The annual allocation to Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs under NLCPR scheme is determined through the normal budgetary process of the Government of India Select the correct code: 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘GOBARdhan scheme’ It is aimed at keeping villages clean while increasing the income of farmers and cattle owners by promoting local entrepreneurs to convert cattle dung, and other organic resources, to biogas and organic manure. It is launched by Ministry of Rural Development Select the correct code: 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.5) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Swajal’ It is launched by the Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation It is a demand driven and community centred program to provide sustainable access to drinking water to people in rural areas. Select the correct code: 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

Daily Current Affairs [IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam] – 20th December 2018

Daily Current Affairs [IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam] – 20th December 2018 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) ‘Strategy for New India @75’ Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II and III – Government policies and interventions and issues arising out of their design and implementation; Indian economy and related issues In news: NITI Aayog released a vision document – ‘Strategy for New India @75’ It contains comprehensive national strategy to build New India by 2022 and propel India towards a USD 5 trillion economy by 2030. Niti Aayog through this vision document attempts to bring innovation, technology, enterprise and efficient management together, at the core of policy formulation and implementation. ‘Strategy for New India @ 75’ has identified 41 different areas that require either a sharper focus on implementing the flagship schemes already in place or a new design and initiative to achieve India’s true potential. The forty-one chapters in the document have been disaggregated under four sections: Drivers, Infrastructure, Inclusion and Governance. To download, visit – http://niti.gov.in/writereaddata/files/Strategy_for_New_India.pdf Some of the key recommendations – According to the vision document, A growth rate of 9% is essential to generate enough jobs and achieve universal prosperity. In order to the economy’s size in real terms from $2.7 trillion in 2017-18 to nearly $4 trillion by 2022-23, India should target 8% growth over the period 2018-23. In order to boost economic growth, the document identified few key steps – increase the country’s investment rate, increase the tax-GDP ratio, boost both private and public investment. Recommends to rationalise direct taxes for both corporate tax and personal income tax. There is a need to ease the tax compliance burden and eliminate direct interface between taxpayers and tax officials using technology. In Agriculture sector, Emphasis must shift to converting farmers to ‘agripreneurs’ by further expanding e-National Agriculture Markets (e-NAMs) and replacing the Agricultural Produce Marketing Committee (APMC) Act with the Agricultural Produce and Livestock Marketing (APLM) Act. The creation of a unified national market, a freer export regime and abolition of the Essential Commodities Act are essential for boosting agricultural growth. The document also called for a strong push towards ‘Zero Budget Natural Farming’ (ZBNF) techniques that reduce costs, improve land quality, and increase farmers’ incomes. Pic: https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2018/12/20/DEL/Delhi/TH/5_01/6697186c_2606335_101_mr.jpg Commercial surrogacy to be banned? Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – Social/Welfare issue; Health issue; Women issue In news: Lok Sabha passed the Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill, 2016, which bans commercial surrogacy in India. In 2009, Law Commission of India in its 229th report recommended a prohibition on commercial surrogacy. Commercial surrogacy is a procedure by which a woman accepts a fee to carry an embryo to term for another couple. Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill, 2016 India has become a hub for commercial surrogacy and several incidents of women being exploited had come to light. The law seeks to end such exploitation and regulate non-commercial or “altruistic surrogacy”. The law bans women from accepting payment to become surrogates. The Bill says no money can be paid except “the medical expenses incurred on surrogate mother and the insurance coverage for the surrogate mother”. The Bill states that an Indian infertile couple, married for five years or more, can go in for ‘altruistic surrogacy’. The Bill allows only close relatives to be surrogate mothers. Bioethical problems of allowing commercial surrogacy – woman body is treated as a commodity in the marketplace. Limitations banning Commercial Surrogacy: The Bill fails to consider same- sex couples or LGBT community (who are now accepted to be a part of the mainstream after Supreme Court decriminalised Section 377). In a country like India, an outright prohibition of commercial surrogacy will only push the business underground, into the black market. This may lead to women being exploited even more. Do you know? Commercial surrogacy in India was legalized in India in 2002. The availability of medical infrastructure and potential surrogates, combined with international demand, has fueled the growth of the industry. The economic scale of surrogacy in India is unknown, but study backed by the United Nations in July 2012 estimated the business at more than $400 million a year, with over 3,000 fertility clinics across India. President’s Rule in J&K; Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – Indian Polity; Centre and State Relations We know that J&K; has separate Constitution. According to its Constitution, Governor’s rule is imposed under Section 92 for six months after an approval by the President. Under the Governor's rule, the State Assembly is either kept in suspended animation or dissolved. If it is not possible to restore the state machinery before the expiry of the six-month period, the provision is extended. In current case since the Assembly was not dissolved within six months, President’s rule under Article 356 is extended to the State. Do you know? In all states of India, the state government's failure results in President's rule. Only in J&K; Governor's rule is imposed for six months, but only after the consent of the President of India. Matters related to defence, foreign relations, communication and finance of Jammu and Kashmir are under jurisdiction of the Constitution of India. Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – International affairs; Security concerns In news: US President Donald Trump, in October this year, had announced the US’ decision to withdraw from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty. Russia announced that it would take retaliatory measures if the US were to station missiles in Europe that threatened their security. Do you know? INF treaty was signed by then Soviet Union Secretary General Mikhail Gorbachev and US President Ronald Reagan in 1987. The agreement is deterrent in nature and was largely designed to prevent prospects of a full-scale nuclear war in Europe. Norway witness a boom in electric cars Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Environment and Ecology; Pollution In news: In Norway approximately 30% of all new cars are electric cars, compared with 2% across Europe overall and 1-2% in the U.S. Norway’s success has one key driver — the government. The government offered big subsidies and perks that it is now due to phase out, but only so long as electric cars remain attractive to buy compared with traditional ones. The move is towards the commitment to have only sell zero-emissions cars sold in Norway by 2025. The plan supports Norway’s CO2 reduction targets under the 2015 Paris climate accord, which nations agreed to ensure emissions goals are met. To help sales, the Norwegian government waived hefty vehicle import duties and registration and sales taxes for buyers of electric cars. Owners don’t have to pay road tolls, and get free use of ferries and bus lanes in congested city centres. (MAINS FOCUS) SOCIAL/WELFARE TOPIC:General studies 2 Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Social empowerment Social issues Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes; mechanisms, laws, institutions and bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections. Transgender Persons Bill, 2018: Rights, revised In news: Lok Sabha has passed a new Bill to protect transgender persons. The current Bill is an improved version of the legislation introduced two years ago, but concerns remain. The below article assesses whether the current Bill is a progressive step towards extending constitutional protection to the highly marginalised community. Positives in new Bill Addresses some of the shortcomings of earlier draft The Bill seeks to address the shortcomings of earlier draft, which was widely perceived as falling short of the expectations of stakeholders and not adequately rights-based. This was also envisaged by the Supreme Court in its landmark decision on transgender rights in 2014. Standing Committee of Parliament on Social Justice and Empowerment and other experts had also criticised the original definition of ‘transgender persons’ for violating the right to self-determined identity. Revised definition The current Bill provides a revised definition that omits the reference to a ‘neither male nor female’ formulation, and covers any person whose gender does not match the gender assigned at birth, as well as transmen, transwomen, those with intersex variations, the gender-queer, and those who designate themselves based on socio-cultural identities such as hijra, aravani, kinner and jogta. No need to go through screening committee after sex reassignment surgery The earlier draft had a provision of mandatory certificate from a district screening committee to prevent misuse (i.e., no provision for self-identification) The current Bill omits the need to go through the district screening committee to get a revised certificate after a transgender has sex reassignment surgery, but the medical certification requirement remains. Concerns in the revised Bill There are legitimate concerns in the revised Bill – One refers to the bar on forcible separation of transgender persons from their families, except through court orders. It has been revised to cover transgender children. Earlier it covered adults as well, but the committee had noted that it was within the family that many transgender persons faced harassment and abuse, and often felt driven to flee their homes. Another concern is that the Bill criminalises begging by making it an offence for someone to compel or entice a transgender person into seeking alms. When begging itself is no more seen as an offence, it may harm the community if such a means of livelihood in the absence of employment is criminalised. Way forward The Bill, unfortunately, does not give effect to the far-reaching directive of the Supreme Court to grant backward class reservation to the transgender community. The Standing Committee’s concerns about recognising civil rights in marriage, divorce and adoption among them has not been addressed. There is much good intention behind the welfare provisions, but social legislation is much more than high-minded clauses. It needs to be followed up with zealous implementation and framing of deadlines to achieve specific objectives. Connecting the dots: The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill, 2018 is a step in the right direction and was much due in the Indian social context. Discuss. ENVIRONMENT TOPIC:General studies 3 Environment and Ecology Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation Environmental impact assessment Achieve uninterrupted flow and unpolluted flow for Clean Ganga About: The government is simply focusing on Swachh Ganga (Clean Ganga) and has missed to aim for uninterrupted flow and unpolluted flow. The whole focus of the Clean Ganga project has been on setting up sewage treatments plants and cleaning ghats and banks. However, the main issue, which is that the river does not have adequate flow of water, has been ignored. In other words, river Ganga's uninterrupted flow is as important as making the river pollution free if the Ganga rejuvenation drive has to show desired results. Major concerns: Fragile region River Ganga is becoming increasingly fragile with severe pollution destroying the river, and more and more developmental projects (especially hydropower and irrigation projects) critically affecting its flow. Several hydropower projects are mushrooming at the source of the river, which is the Garhwal range of the Himalayas. Unlike other ranges, the Garhwal is narrow. It is from here that many rivers and tributaries of the Ganga basin emerge. These spring- or glacier-fed rivers join one another at different points to form an intricate riverine ecosystem in the Himalayas. The entire basin falls in the seismic zone 4-5, and is highly prone to landslides and land subsidence. How developmental activities such as construction of hydropower projects affect the riverine ecosystem? As said earlier, several hydropower projects are mushrooming at the source of the river. To construct a hydropower project, large sections of land are cleared of forests. Deforestation is taking place in an already fragile mountain area. Impacts – loss of agriculture, drying of water sources as the water is diverted into tunnels, landslips, severe distress to aquatic life and the river bed is no longer even wet in certain stretches. The irony is that even after all this devastation, electricity is not generated as per the intended capacity. This is because there is too much silt and flow of debris during the monsoon and reduced flow of water in winters. And as glaciers continue to retreat, the silt in the rivers is only going to increase. Therefore, the flow of debris and silt was stopped by barrages constructed around these hydropower projects. (This also escalates the impact of disaster. For ex, 2013 disaster) As the reason for diminished output is natural and not technical, and therefore cannot be remedied, this is only going to cause more problems for future projects. In the case of the Ganga, these projects also prevent sediments from going downstream. This affects the fertility of the delta downstream and also destroys the unique self-purifying properties of the Ganga. Reports of committees Twenty government committees and reports warn about the anthropogenic activities in these fragile areas and recommend conservation of these areas for food and water security. When the late G.D. Agarwal, crusader of the Ganga, fasted to invoke the government to act against these projects, the government proposed an e-flow notification for the Upper Ganga River Basin. It specified that during the dry season (November-March), 20% of monthly average flow has to be maintained, and during the monsoon season, 30% has to be maintained. The notification stated that existing hydel projects that do not meet e-flow norms must comply within three years. The 20% recommendation is less than the scientific recommendation of 50%. Also the E-flow implementation process is dubious. Conclusion If the government intends to rejuvenate the river, it should have specified that 20% e-flows norms are only for existing projects, rather than extending it to several such new projects. Also the understanding that hydropower projects mean development needs to change. What is required is a credible roadmap to clean the Ganga and restore its flow. Connecting the dots: River Ganga's uninterrupted flow is as important as making the river pollution free if the Ganga rejuvenation drive has to show desired results. Comment. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Note: Featured Comments and comments Up-voted by IASbaba are the “correct answers”. IASbaba App users – Team IASbaba will provide correct answers in comment section. Kindly refer to it and update your answers. Q.1) Which of the following are the features of Zero Budget Natural Farming? Inter-cropping Mulching Seed treatment Replenishment of water bodies Select the correct answer using code below 1 and 2 1, 2 and 3 3 and 4 1, 2, 3 and 4 Q.2) Consider the following statements regarding the features Jammu and Kashmir Constitution It declares the State of J&K; to be an integral part of India It provides for Governor’s rule as appointed by President of India It clarifies that the permanent residents of the state are entitled to all rights guaranteed under the Constitution of India Select the correct statements 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 1, 2 and 3  Q.3) Consider the following statements: Governor’s rule is imposed on Jammu and Kashmir only, while the President rule on the rest of India. President Rule is not extended to Jammu And Kashmir State as Governor’s rule is imposed if the constitutional machinery fails in the state. Choose the correct code from below: 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 MUST READ Metropolis of the mind: how Delhi has become a shadow of its old self The Hindu  Befriend thy neighbour  The Hindu  The besieged sanctuary Indian Express Policeman, train thyself Indian Express Preserving the real value of the Constitution  Livemint India’s 1st step towards EVs raises concerns too Livemint  For big business, ethics is becoming redundant Livemint

Daily Current Affairs [IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam] – 19th December 2018

Daily Current Affairs [IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam] – 19th December 2018 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Child protection policy Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – Social/Welfare issue; Government policies and interventions and issues arising out of their design and implementation. In news: Ministry of Women and Child Development has drafted child protection policy Move comes in the wake of Muzaffarpur home case Do you know? The Supreme Court had directed the CBI to investigate allegations involving 17 shelter homes for children, destitute women, beggars and senior citizens in Bihar following the case of sexual abuse of more than 30 girls in a shelter home in Muzaffarpur in the State. The Supreme Court had also asked the Centre to consider framing a national policy on protection of children. The draft Child protection policy contains the following important provisions – It recommends that all organisations must have a code of conduct based on “zero tolerance of child abuse and exploitation”. It requires organisations to lay down that employees don’t use language or behaviour that is “inappropriate, harassing, abusive, sexually provocative, demeaning or culturally inappropriate”. Recommends employees of all organisations to sign a declaration agreeing to ensure the safety of children. Institutions should also designate a staff member to ensure that procedures are in place to ensure the protection of children as well as to report any abuse. Any individual who suspects physical, sexual or emotional abuse must report it to the helpline number 1098, police or a child welfare committee. How is this Policy different from National Child Policy, 2013? Child Protection Policy will be the first policy dedicated to the protection of children, an area that until now was only a part of the broader National Child Policy, 2013. Unlike the National Child Policy, 2013, the latest document doesn’t talk about children who may need special protection: including those affected by migration, communal or sectarian violence, children forced into begging or in conflict with the law, and those infected with HIV/AIDS. It also doesn’t talk about the role of the State for ensuring the protection of child rights or addressing local grievances. Role of NGT over illegal extraction of groundwater Part of: GS Mains II and III – Role of Tribunal or NGT; Environment and Ecology In news: NGT had rapped the Central Ground Water Authority for failing to curb illegal extraction of groundwater and directed the Ministry to notify a policy by December 18. Following which, the Union Water Resources Ministry issued a notification pertaining to groundwater extraction. However, NGT said the notification was against “national interest”. Fast recap: We already read that - Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA) has notified a water conservation fee (WCF). Industries will need to pay on groundwater extraction starting from June 2019. Industries extracting groundwater, including mining-dewatering units and those that use groundwater for packaged drinking water, will need to apply for a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the government. Individual households that draw groundwater using a delivery pipe of a greater than 1” diameter, too, will need to pay a WCF. However, the agriculture sector — the largest consumer of groundwater in the country — will be exempt from the fees. NGT views: According to NGT, merely imposing a cost is not enough to curb groundwater extraction. It added that a detailed order including the directions should be uploaded by January 11. Simplification of the Goods and Services Tax Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Indian Economy and related issues In news: PM Modi has hinted at further simplification of the Goods and Services Tax. The current government wants to ensure that 99% items attract sub-18% GST slab. According to the PM, GST implementation has removed contradictions in the trade market and efficiency of system is improving. The economy is also getting transparent. Miscellaneous India-US Defence ties : : India brought C-17 Globemaster heavy-lift and C-130J Hercules from the U.S. Bogibeel bridge in Assam : : India’s longest rail-road bridge to be inaugurated by PM Modi on Christmas Day. Indigenous communities of Assam : : Ahoms, Chutias, Deuri and Mising (These communities were in news for their row over naming of Bogibeel bridge in Assam. Different communities want bridge to be named after their community leaders.) U.S. military to have a ‘Space Command’ : : U.S. President Donald Trump ordered the creation of “Space Command”, a new organisational structure within the Pentagon that will have overall control of military space operations. Mr. Trump’s goal is to build an entirely new branch of the military called “Space Force”. (Also read - Gearing up for space wars) (MAINS FOCUS) INTERNATIONAL TOPIC:General studies 2 Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India's interests, Indian diaspora. Why India needs dedicated Techplomacy? Introduction: There were allegations that the technological advances in mid-19th century (especially with the advent of cable) will lead to end of diplomacy. However, it did not end diplomacy; but they forever changed the way it was conducted. Today, with the world witnessing more sweeping technological revolution, governments are finding new ways to adapt. New technology requires new approaches, encapsulated by the phrase ‘Digital Diplomacy’. Whether it is in using the social media to influence public opinion at home and abroad, conducting espionage on other states, securing one’s critical infrastructure against foreign interference, setting terms for cross-border data flows, governing the internet, countering terrorism, or preventing the militarisation of Artificial Intelligence, all major governments are reorganising their diplomatic mechanisms. Do you know? To enhance the effectiveness of its voice in the new domain, France appointed a full time “digital ambassador” in 2017. Denmark has set up offices of “TechPlomacy” in Silicon Valley, Copenhagen and Beijing. The French and Danish digital ambassadors deal with other governments, also technology giants like Google, Facebook and Alibaba and Huawei. Why India should review and reorganise its technology diplomacy? Technology has now become a driving force shaping the world. For instance, the influence of companies such as Google, IBM, Apple and Microsoft is now so great that their economic strength and impact exceeds that of many nation states. Increasing global complexity has led to nation states holding less importance, and private sector giants becoming more high-profile. TechPlomacy is needed to build strong ties with these tech giants as these firms open doors to new jobs; they collect a lot of data, and they can also help nations in their fight against terror by “taking down accounts as soon as possible. It will help to check the power of technology giants and to engage in traditional diplomatic work with such companies and other key tech stakeholders. TechPlomacy will help government support and create the best conditions for the digital era. A tech ambassador will reconcile his/her country's national interests. Conclusion: Diplomacy today is fast changing due to an increasingly globalised and complex world. First, social media is acting as a powerful tool that is helping to “influence on a massive scale” and enabling more open, democratic and inclusive diplomacy. Further, technology is creating more informal lines of communication, and enabling a new generation of ‘citizen diplomats’. Second, diplomats need to consider the implications of artificial intelligence and automation. TechPlomacy will help create the right global institutions to realise the potential, and manage the threats. Connecting the dots: World needs TechPlomacy alongside diplomacy. Do you agree? Elucidate. INTERNATIONAL TOPIC:General studies 2 India and its neighborhood- relations. Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India's interests, Indian diaspora.  Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India's interests. India-Maldives ties: Restoring the balance Introduction: India-Maldives ties strengthened after the Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih’s three-day visit to India this week. This is Mr. Solih’s first overseas visit after becoming the President of the Indian Ocean nation of 400,000 people. Do you know? India and Maldives ties were low during previous President (Abdulla Yameen) regime. Mr. Yameen had drawn the Maldives closer to China. Under Mr. Yameen, the Maldives welcomed Chinese money for major infrastructure projects and signed a controversial free trade agreement (FTA). India’s entreaties for political moderation and closer security ties were summarily ignored. President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih surprise victory in the Maldivian presidential elections has recalibrated his country’s ties with India. Solih’s victory represents the collective aspirations of the people for democracy, the rule of law and a prosperous future. Recent ties Prime Minister Narendra Modi had attended the swearing-in ceremony of Mr. Solih as the President of Maldives in November. (His first visit to the nation as Prime Minister and the first by an Indian head of state since 2011). India desires “to see a stable, democratic, prosperous and peaceful Republic of Maldives”. Solih called India the island nation’s “closest friend” and “reaffirmed his government’s ‘India-First’ Policy”, committing to working together closely with India. India announced a financial assistance package of $1.4 billion for the Maldives in the form of budgetary support, currency swap agreements and concessional lines of credit. On security front, both the countries consolidated cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). They have agreed to strengthen maritime security cooperation in the IOR through coordinated patrol and aerial surveillance. Both the nations to attempt to boost trade ties. Areas such fisheries development, tourism, transportation, connectivity, health, education, information technology, new and renewable energy and communications were earmarked for enhancing bilateral cooperation. Conclusion: India’s patient handling of the Maldives crisis over the last few years has positioned it well. Maldives would need the support of India as its challenges remain acute. Challenges such as growing threat of Islamist extremism, Governance issues, growing concerns about the money the Maldives owes to China for infrastructure projects etc. The more India invest in strengthening democratic institutions in its neighbourhood, the better returns it will get in its foreign policy. Connecting the dots: What are India’s interests in the Maldives? Examine the emerging challenges that the small island country is facing and their implications for India. What significance Maldives hold for India? Discuss. Also enumerate the irritants in Indo-Maldives relations. How do you assess the present status of relationship? (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) India has brought C-17 Globemaster from the US. What is C-17 Globemaster? It is a large military transport aircraft It is a largest military helicopter It is a missile launch system It is an aircraft career Q.2) Consider the following statements with reference to the Goods and Services Tax It is an umbrella tax which will subsume all the direct taxes. GST will eliminate the cascading of taxes and will make taxation simpler Which of the above statements is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 or 2 Q.3) Consider the following statements about ‘C-17 Globemaster’ It is an aircraft by Lockheed Martin It is used to perform strategic airlift missions, transporting troops and cargo throughout the world It is inducted in the Indian Air Force and Indian Navy Select the INCORRECT statements 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.4) Bogibeel bridge, India’s longest rail-road bridge to be inaugurated by PM Modi on Christmas Day is over - Ganga river Brahmaputra river Sabarmati river Subansiri river Q.5) Ahoms, Chutias, Deuri and Mising were in news recently. They are – Indigenous communities of Assam Indigenous communities of North-East India Tribal communities of West Bengal Particularly vulnerable tribal group of North-East India MUST READ There is no question of going back to the paper ballot The Hindu  New rules, old games Indian Express  Militancy, not militants Indian Express Getting the Earth out of the Anthropocene period Livemint  Why expanding India’s direct tax net is relevant Livemint

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2019 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 133]

UPSC Quiz - 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 133] Archives Q.1) Where is ‘Viper Island’ located? Off Goa’s Coast Bay of Bengal Between India and Sri Lanka Andaman and Nicobar Islands Q.2) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘PRASAD Scheme’ It is aimed at preserving and revitalizing the soul and unique character of the heritage cities in India It is under the aegis of Ministry of Urban Development Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) Which of the following statements is/are correct? India is currently the world’s largest producer of direct reduced iron (DRI)/sponge iron. India is currently the world’s largest producers of crude steel India is the largest consumers of finished steel in the world Select the correct code: 1 and 3 1, 2 and 3 1 Only 2 and 3 Q.4) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Graphene oxide’ It is used in energy storage devices It is used in desalination of water It is not toxic and hazardous for the environment Select the correct code: 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.5) ‘NeVA Project’ is associated with Indigenous Missile Development Scorpène-class submarines Make in India None of the above To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

Interview Discussion IAS UPSC: Think, Rethink and Perform (TRP)-Day 6

Interview Discussion: Think, Rethink and Perform; (TRP)- Day 6  ARCHIVES Set 1: Ask these questions to yourself; contemplate and come out with a concrete answer (not to be discussed on this forum). Invest at least 30 minutes on this set of questions. Which incident has inspired you the most in your life? (It can be personal or professional both) Why? Have you ever inspired someone? What was the event? Who inspires you more, common people or famous personalities? Set 2: Analyse the following issue: of justice? Think about it.

RSTV Video

RSTV IAS UPSC – Humanising Prisons

Humanising Prisons Archives TOPIC: General Studies 2 Structure, organization and functioning of the Executive and the Judiciary Ministries and Departments of the Government; pressure groups and formal/informal associations and their role in the Polity. Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Important aspects of governance, transparency and accountability, e?governance? applications, models, successes, limitations, and potential; citizens charters, transparency & accountability and institutional and other measures. In News: The Supreme Court has once again made a strong observation on the situation of prisoners lodged in jails. The Supreme Court has issued instructions to all state governments to make changes in prison rules. Also, the court observed that prisoners sentenced to death should be allowed to meet psychiatrists. Upkeep of jails has not been undertaken for years. Toilets and sewage system are not cleaned in the jails. There is not enough room for children of prisoners in prison. The list of problems is endless. The management of prisons falls exclusively under the domain of the state government, as per the seventh schedule of the constitution. But not one State or Union Territory has bothered to prepare a plan of action, as directed by the court five months ago, to reduce crowding and to augment infrastructure so that more space is available to each prisoner. The court received some information about proposals for constructing additional jails, but has found that these are only ad hoc proposals, with no indication of either a time frame or the resources provided for building these facilities. Indian prisons face three long-standing structural constraints: Overcrowding: Due to a high percentage of undertrials in the prison population According to the Prison Statistics India 2015 report by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), India’s prisons are overcrowded with an occupancy ratio of 14% more than the capacity. More than two-thirds of the inmates are undertrials. Sixty seven percent of the people in Indian jails are undertrials – those detained in prisons during trial, investigation or inquiry but not convicted of any crime in a court of law. Understaffing: The manpower recruited inside this prison is almost 50% short of its actual requirement. While 33% of the total requirement of prison officials still lies vacant, almost 36% of vacancy for supervising officers is still unfulfilled. In the absence of adequate prison staff, overcrowding of prisons leads to rampant violence and other criminal activities inside the jails. About 12,727 people are reported to have died in prisons between 2001 and 2010. Prison service staff are ill-trained, poorly paid, badly accommodated and often remain without promotion or any career advancement for years together. Senior positions of responsibility are inevitably filled by higher ranking personnel from the police who have neither the training nor experience to run prisons as anything more than holding cells with no thought of them possibly being correctional facilities. Underfunding The inevitable outcome is sub-human living conditions, poor hygiene, and violent clashes between the inmates and jail authorities. Problems faced by Undertrials As a matter of fundamental rights guaranteed by the Indian constitution, undertrials are presumed innocent till proven guilty. But they are often subjected to psychological and physical torture during detention and exposed to subhuman living conditions and prison violence. Stigma: Many lose their family neighbourhood and community ties and, more often than not, their livelihoods. Moreover, prison time attaches social stigma to them as individuals and as community members. Even their families, relatives and communities are not immune to disgrace and humiliation. Even after their acquittal, undertrials find their employability severely jeopardised for none of their faults. Lack of access to legal representatives: Undertrials tend to have restricted access to legal representatives. Many undertrials are poor people accused of minor offences, locked away for long periods because they are not aware of their rights and cannot access legal aid. Lack of financial resources and a robust support system, and the limited ability to communicate with lawyers from within the jail premises hamper their ability to defend themselves in the court of law. This despite a landmark Supreme Court ruling that Article 21 of the constitution entitles prisoners to a fair and speedy trial as part of their fundamental right to life and liberty. Undertrials often remain behind bars for years despite the provisions of Section 436A of the Code of Criminal Procedure, which came into effect in 2005. This section mandates the release, on personal bond with or without surety, of undertrial detainees who have been imprisoned for half the maximum sentence they would have received if convicted for the offence they are charged with. This section does not apply to those who could be sentenced to death or life term. But 39% of those charged for crimes under the Indian Penal Code couldn’t be punished with life term or death penalty, Prison Statistics 2014 show. Women Jails India’s women prisoner population has ballooned 61% over the past 15 years, far outstripping the male growth rate of 33%, but infrastructure growth hasn’t kept pace. Women are often confined to small wards inside male prisons, their needs becoming secondary to those of the general inmate population. Their small numbers – they constitute 4.3% of the national population – ensure they remain low on policy priority and hence the coverage of facilities such as sanitary napkins, pre- and post-natal care for pregnant mothers is patchy. In many jails, for instance, pieces of cloth are used in place of pads. The Model Prison Manual, drafted by the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D), also calls for women doctors, superintendents, separate kitchens for women inmates, and pre- and post-natal care for pregnant inmates, as also temporary release for an impending delivery. None of these guidelines is consistently implemented across district and state jails. There’s also a large gap in the range, level, and quality of vocational training given to women inmates as compared to men. Options for women are scant because new initiatives require scale, and women’s jails are synonymous with lack of scalability. Food rations are significantly smaller for women inmates than they are for male inmates. The well-being of their children is one of the most traumatic and oft-ignored issues affecting women prisoners. Inmates, whether undertrials or convicts, need access to a woman counsellor, and this is a need that is almost never met. After her child turns six and is removed from the prison, the woman inmate often has no way of knowing how her child is being brought up or cared for in the outside world, and this alone can be torturous. Several women crying bitterly even on the eve of their release because of the uncertainty ahead of them. Sorry state of Natural Deaths Too many prisoners are dying behind bars. Most are reported as ‘Natural Deaths’. Natural deaths inside custody however need further scrutiny. Firstly, because the person’s liberty is fettered in judicial custody; he/she is dependent on the state for the upkeep of their health. So, deprivation in this area cannot be termed ‘natural’. Secondly because the status of the inquiries conducted to investigate these deaths are not available in public domain. Suicides form the largest chunk of unnatural deaths. Also, mentioning an unspecified category such as ‘others’ does not make for a useful data category in understanding the causes of prison deaths. Note: SC has formed a Committee on Prison Reforms chaired by former apex court judge, Justice Amitava Roy: To examine the various problems plaguing prisons in the country, from overcrowding to lack of legal advice to convicts to issues of remission and parole Recommend remedial measures, including an examination of the functioning of Under Trial Review Committees, availability of legal aid and advice, grant of remission, parole and furlough. Probe the reasons for violence in prisons and correctional homes and recommend measures to prevent unnatural deaths and assess the availability of medical facilities in prisons and correctional homes and make recommendations. Assess the availability and inadequacy of staff in prisons and correctional homes, suggest training and educational modules for the staff and assess the feasibility of establishing open prisons. Recommend steps for the psycho-social well-being of minor children of women prisoners, including their education and health. Examine and recommend measures for the health, education, development of skills, rehabilitation and social reintegration of children in observation homes, places of safety and special homes established under the provisions of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015. Complete the collection of data and information and make submit it in a year. Must Read: Link 1 + Link 2 + Link 3 Connecting the Dots: Do you think Justice Amitava Roy committee will prove to be a ray of hope in the direction of prison reforms? Examine. Without political reforms, an improvement in India’s criminal justice system is impossible. Discuss.

PIB

Press Information Bureau (PIB) IAS UPSC – 9th Dec to 16th Dec - 2018

Press Information Bureau (PIB) IAS UPSC – 9th Dec to 16th Dec - 2018 ARCHIVES GS-2 Steps to increase Female Labour Participation Rate (Topic: General studies 1: Role of women and women’s organization, women related issues, Social empowerment General studies 2: Mechanisms, laws, institutions and Bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections) The decline in female work force participation rate may be attributed to factors like increased educational attendance and higher level of participation in education and insufficient formal wage employment opportunities etc. Establishment of Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship to coordinate the skill development schemes across various sectors. National Career Service (NCS) Project comprises of a digital portal that provides a nation-wide online platform for jobseekers and employers for job matching in a dynamic, efficient and responsive manner and has a repository of career content. Enactment of the Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Act, 2017 which provides for enhancement in paid maternity leave from 12 weeks to 26 weeks and provisions for mandatory crèche facility in the establishments having 50 or more employees Issue of an advisory to the States under the Factories Act, 1948 for permitting women workers in the night shifts with adequate safety measures. In order to enhance the employability of female workers, the Government is providing training to them through a network of Women Industrial Training institutes, National Vocational Training Institutes and Regional Vocational Training Institutes. The Equal Remuneration Act, 1976 provides for payment of equal remuneration to men and women workers for same work or work of similar nature without any discrimination. Further, under the provisions of the Minimum Wages Act, 1948, the wages fixed by the appropriate Government are equally applicable to both male and female workers and the Act does not discriminate on the basis of gender. Must Read: Link The Government of India and ADB sign a $31 Million Loan Agreement to develop Tourism and boost Jobs in Tamil Nadu (Topic: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests) Objectives: Improve the tourism infrastructure in Tamil Nadu Help the State in preserving the natural and cultural heritage Boost economic opportunities for the local people, especially through skills training and community-based activities targeting the poor and women. Three-Year Action Agenda (2017–2018 to 2019–2020) Envisages the hospitality, travel, and tourism sector as a major driver of growth and employment. The Agenda recognizes India’s significant potential to increase: (a) the number of arrivals (b) global presence by leveraging its cultural industries (c) capacity to create large-scale jobs among the poorest segments of the population. The Project Identifies key areas for action, including infrastructure, marketing, and skill development, all of which are aligned with the MFF Road Map. Support the conservation and restoration of eight heritage monuments, one museum, three temples, and a pond. Build various facilities at the sites, including information centres, rest centres, and toilet blocks, with facilities served by solar-powered lighting and energy efficient lighting. The total cost of the Project is $44.04 million, of which the Government will provide $13.04 million. The estimated completion date is June 2020. Government of India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) sign a $60 Million Loan Agreement to reduce floods and the riverbank erosion in Assam (Topic: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests) The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Government of India signed a $60 Million Loan Agreement to continue financing Riverbank protection works Renovation of flood embankments Community-based flood risk management activities in critically flood-prone areas along the Brahmaputra River in Assam The non-structural measures will cover community involvement and community-based flood risk management activities through establishing and training disaster management committees for strengthening local disaster preparedness and emergency response. The Project will continue to support the institutional capacity development of the autonomous body anchored to the Assam Water Resources Department, named Flood and River Erosion Management Agency of Assam (FREMAA), and Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA), as the executing and implementing agencies for this Project. Niti Aayog of India – 2018 Year Review Initiatives and Programmes (i) Measuring performance and ranking States on outcomes in critical sectors With emphasis on outcomes, NITI finalized indices to measure incremental annual outcomes in critical social sectors like health, education, water and Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). District Hospital Index was developed to measure and monitor the performance of hospitals with a focus on outputs and outcomes. Developed the ‘Healthy States, Progressive India’ Report also known as the ‘Health Index’ in February 2018 Composite Water Management Index was also launched The ‘School Education Quality Index (SEQI)’, ‘SDG India Index’ and the ‘Digital Transformation Index’ (DTI) which will measure states’ progress in respective sectors are in the works. (ii) Sustainable Action for Transforming Human Capital (SATH): SATH is aimed at initiating transformation in two key social sectors—education and health, by hand-holding States towards improving their social sector indicators and providing technical support over three years. (iii) Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat: EBSB was conceptualized to make our country united, strong and promote excellence in all walks of life by means of long-term inter-state engagements through cultural exchanges and education. (iv) Transforming of 115 identified Aspirational Districts: To realise the vision of ‘SabkaSaath, SabkaVikas’, and ensure that India’s growth process remains inclusive, the ‘Aspirational District Programme (ADP)’ was launched. It is a special initiative to rapidly transform 115 identified districts that have shown relatively lesser progress in key social areas and have emerged as pockets of under-development, thereby posing a challenge to ensure balanced regional development. Under ADP, 49 key performance indicators (KPIs) have been identified across such sectors with the aim to improving ease of living, as well as enhancing the economic productivity of citizens residing in these districts. Health and nutrition, education, agriculture and water resources, financial inclusion and skill development and basic infrastructure are main sectors where rapid transformation is envisaged. Promoting Inclusive Growth – Giving fillip to the goal of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikaas New Guidelines have been issued to Ministry of Panchayati Raj for transparent and equitable allocation of funds amongst the States who were deprived of the central fund under the areas covered under sixth schedule of the Constitution. To leverage the pivotal role of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs), the expert committee constituted under the chairmanship of former Vice-Chairman, NITI Aayog recommended restructuring of the Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA).  A report prepared on Revamping of Tribal Research Institutes (TRIs) to promote them as top class research institutes is being examined by NITI Aayog for further necessary actions. Gaps in the National Policy for Persons with Disabilities, 2006 have been identified and forwarded to the department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities for revision of the Policy. The new NGO-Darpan Portal which went live in April 2017 was developed as a dynamic database of NGOs in the country, and for NGOs to obtain Unique ID to be eligible to apply for grants from any central Ministry/Department. 43,000 NGOs have already registered. Enabling evidence-based policy mailing and enhancing productive efficiency with long-term vision (i) Three Year National Action Agenda and the Strategy for New India @75: Allows better alignment of the development strategy with the changed reality of India.  (ii) Reform of Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs): NITI Aayog in consultation with administrative ministries has made recommendations in four tranches for strategic disinvestment in PSUs. So far, based on NITI Aayog's recommendations, more than 30 CPSEs have been approved by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs for in-principle strategic disinvestment. The process of divestment is being carried out by DIPAM and the first transactions are expected in the current financial year after a long gap of 14 years. (iii) Balanced Regional Development Release of Special Funds: To promote regional development NITI Aayog recommended release of balance funds to States namely Odisha, Bihar and West Bengal under the Special Plan (BRGF-State component) approved during the 12th Five Year Plan period, and release of one-time special assistance to the States namely Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram and Tripura for the areas covered under sixth schedule of the Constitution. Development support to the North East: A Committee was constituted under the Chairmanship of CEO, NITI Aayog to examine and suggest a road map for a new industrial policy for the North Eastern and the Himalayan States. NITI Forum for North East: It is the first ever regional forum constituted by NITI Aayog with representation from all the NE States and the concerned Central Ministries/Departments, to identify various constraints in the way of accelerated, inclusive but sustainable economic growth in the North East Region of our country, and also to recommend suitable interventions for addressing the identified constraints. Holistic Development of Islands: NITI Aayog has been mandated to steer the process of holistic development of identified islands as unique models of sustainable development. Accordingly, in consultation with key stakeholders, NITI Aayog has shortlisted 10 islands in the first phase.   (iv) Health & Nutrition Sector Reforms: NITI has been initiating radical reforms in the health sector. National Commission for Homoeopathy (NCH) Bill, 2017 and the National Commission for Indian Systems of Medicine Bill, 2017 have been finalized after extensive deliberations. Evolving the National Nutrition Strategy: NITI formulated the National Nutrition Strategy which provides the rationale and roadmap for policy makers to bring nutrition to the centre of the stage in India’s Development Agenda. It focuses on inter-sectoral convergence and identifies priority districts to tackle malnutrition and meet the country’s nutrition needs and targets. Launch of the POSHAN Abhiyaan: The POSHAN Abhiyaan has been launched with the aim of improving nutrition outcomes in India in the next three years. Pushing Reforms in Pharmaceuticals Sector: NITI provided policy inputs for making available affordable drugs and devices. National Institute for Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER) - Evaluation of NIPERs was conducted and a way forward for pharmaceutical education suggested.  (v) Driving India’s Energy Sector In a stakeholder-driven, roadmap development exercise, NITI has prepared and launched a report on ‘India’s Renewable Electricity Roadmap 2030.’ The report summarizes the opportunities and barriers in the sector. NITI Aayog had engaged Deloitte and PwC to prepare the state action plan (SAP) for re-integration in eight states. These SAPs have now been finalized. Draft National Energy Policy (NEP) developed by NITI following large scale consultation with other departments and public feedback is being finalized. NITI Aayog has developed the State Energy Index to measure the status and the efforts undertaken by the States towards ensuring accessibility and affordability, of energy, as well as gauging its sustainability and environment friendliness. NITI Aayog is also developing a dynamic GIS Energy Map of India in collaboration with Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO). The consolidated energy map would provide requisite energy related information to all stakeholders which would help in better decision making. Implementation and Monitoring Progress on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) NITI Aayog is entrusted with the task of overseeing the implementation of SDGs in the country. NITI Aayog is developing a comprehensive SDG India Index comprising a set of indicators for measuring performance of States/UTs on SDGs. A dynamic national dashboard on SDGs is also being created to continuously monitor the progress on SDGs in the country. NITI Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant and the UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres signed the Sustainable Development Framework 2018-22 for India in October 2018. Partnership to organise and promote stakeholder consultation in policy making NITI has provided the platform to collaborate with national and international think tanks on wide-ranging areas. Through conferences, workshops and joint research projects NITI has enabled expert inputs in the policy making exercise of the government. ‘SAMAVESH’, - a major initiative aimed at networking and partnership with knowledge and research institutions using a hub and spoke model was launched. Promote Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Atal Innovation Mission: To promote innovation and entrepreneurship in the country. Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs): At the high school level, students from Class VI onwards work with Robots, 3D printers, internet of things. Atal Incubation Centres (AIC): Under the Atal Incubation Centres (AIC) program, more than 100 institutions have been selected for setting up incubators around the country, in a mix of tier 1, 2 and 3 cities.  Atal Innovation Mission is working at the grassroots level in different parts of the country, to help students and teachers transform into innovators, develop an entrepreneurial mindset, which will pave the way forward for developing a ‘New India’ by 2022. Women Entrepreneurship Platform: Aimed at building an ecosystem for women across India. It aims to help women realize their entrepreneurial aspirations, scale-up innovative initiatives and chalk-out sustainable, long-term strategies for their businesses. Catalysing Reforms in Agriculture In view of the goal of the government to double farmer’s income by 2022, a series of initiatives have been taken by NITI to usher in critical reforms in the agriculture sector. (i) Model Act on Agricultural Land Leasing, 2017: To recognize the rights of the tenant and safeguard interest of landowners NITI Aayog formulated a Model Agricultural Land Leasing Act, 2016 that would enable investment, technology, economy and employment in agriculture. (ii) Reforms of the Agricultural Produce Marketing Committee Act (iii) Agricultural Marketing and Farmer Friendly Reforms Index: Developed the first ever ‘Agriculture Marketing and Farmer Friendly Reforms Index’ to sensitise States about the need to undertake reforms in three key areas of agriculture market, land lease and forestry on private land (felling and transit of trees). The aim of the index is to induce healthy competition between States. (iv) Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana: A roadmap for PMKSY was prepared and shared with the concerned Central Ministries/Departments, the States and other stakeholders. (v) Price Deficiency Payments: Concept of price deficiency payments as an alternative to physical procurement of agricultural produce by the government under Minimum Support Price (MSP) has been proposed by NITI. (vi) Rejuvenating Fertilizer Sector: To achieve the aim of India becoming self-sufficient in the production of urea by 2022, NITI steered several committees for revival of new plants at Gorakhpur, Sindri, Barauni and Ramagundam, and selection of technology for Talcher plant. Pilot project of introduction of Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) in fertilizer was successfully completed in several States and taken forward for implementation across all States.     (vii) Alternative Mechanisms for Implementation of Minimum Support Price (MSP): NITI Aayog, in consultation with the Central Ministries, States and other stakeholders, has laid down a mechanism comprising three options: Market Assurance Scheme, Price Deficiency Payment Scheme, and Private Procurement and Stockist Scheme. Year End Review- 2018: Ministry of Labour & Employment The Ministry of Labour and Employment is committed towards job security, wage security and social security for each and every worker. Along with bringing transparency and accountability in enforcement of Labour Laws, the Ministry has taken important initiatives during the year, to realize and establish the dignity of every worker through provision of social security, enhancing the avenues and quality of employment. Labour Codes: In line with recommendations of Second National Commission on Labour, the Ministry has taken steps for formulating of four Labour Codes on (i) Wages; (ii) Industrial Relations; (iii) Social Security & Welfare; and (iv) Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions by amalgamating, simplifying, and rationalizing the relevant provisions of the existing Central Labour Laws. Shram Suvidha Portal: To bring transparency and accountability in enforcement of labour laws and ease complexity of compliance. Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Act, 2017: Increased paid maternity leave from 12 weeks to 26 weeks and has benefited 18 Lakh women employees. Recently Government proposed to bear 7 weeks of salary to motivate employers. Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) among Brazil, Russian Federation, India, China, South Africa, regarding Cooperation in the Social and Labour Sphere: The MoU provides a mechanism for cooperation, collaboration and maximum synergy amongst BRICS member countries with the common objective of inclusive growth and shared prosperity in the new industrial revolution. Pradhan Mantri Rojgar Protsahan Yojana (PMRPY): Government of India is now paying full employer's contribution (EPF and EPS both) with effect from 1st April, 2018 for a period of three years to the new employees as well as to the existing beneficiaries for their remaining period of three years. Before 1st April, 2018, the Government was paying under PMRPY only the EPS share (8.33% of the wages) out of the total employer’s share of contribution (12% of the wages). GS-3 Agriculture Export Policy (Topic: Agriculture) The Government has formulated a comprehensive Agriculture Export Policy to consolidate the efforts for export of agricultural products. The objectives of the Agriculture Export policy are: To diversify the export basket, destinations and boost high value- and value-added agricultural exports including focus on perishables. To promote novel, indigenous, organic, ethnic, traditional and non-traditional Agri products exports. To provide an institutional mechanism for pursuing market access, tackling barriers and deal with sanitary and phytosanitary issues. To strive to double India’s share in world agri exports by integrating with global value chain at the earliest. Enable farmers to get benefit of export opportunities in overseas market. Schemes to promote exports, including exports of agricultural products: Trade Infrastructure for Export Scheme (TIES) Market Access Initiatives (MAI) Scheme Merchandise Exports from India Scheme (MEIS) In addition, assistance to the exporters of agricultural products is also available under the – Export Promotion Schemes of Agricultural & Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) Tobacco Board, Tea Board, Coffee Board, Rubber Board and Spices Board. These organisations also seek to promote exports through participation in international fairs & exhibitions, taking initiatives to gain market access for different products in different markets, dissemination of market intelligence and taking steps to ensure quality of exported products. Year End Review 2018 – Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) Keeping in view our commitment to a healthy planet and our Nationally Determined Contributions as per the Paris Accord on Climate Change, India made a pledge that by 2030- 40% of installed power generation capacity shall be based on clean sources, it was determined that 175 GW of renewable energy capacity will be installed by 2022. This includes 100 GW from solar, 60 GW from wind, 10 GW from bio-power and 5 GW from small hydro power. The substantial higher capacity target will ensure greater energy security, improved energy access and enhanced employment opportunities. With the accomplishment of this ambitious target, India will become one of the largest Green Energy producers in the world, even surpassing several developed countries. India has 5th Global position for overall installed renewable energy capacity, 4th position for wind power and 5th position for solar power. Solar Energy The Government has revised the target of Grid Connected Solar Power Projects from 20,000 MW by the year 2021-22 to 100,000 MW by the year 2021-22 under the National Solar Mission. Solar Parks are being set up in the country. 47 solar parks of aggregate capacity 26,694 MW has been approved in 21 States up to November, 2018. The National Wind-Solar Hybrid Policy was issued in May 2018. The main objective of the policy is to provide a framework for promotion of large grid connected wind-solar PV hybrid system for optimal and efficient utilization of wind and solar resources, transmission infrastructure and land. The wind - solar PV hybrid systems will help in reducing the variability in renewable power generation and achieving better grid stability. International Solar Alliance (ISA): The International Solar Alliance (ISA) became first international intergovernmental organization headquartered in India on 6th December, 2017. ISA is part of India’s vision to provide clean and affordable energy to all. So far 71 countries have signed the Framework Agreement of the ISA. Out of these,48 countries have ratified the same. India has recognized ISA’s judicial personality by entering into Headquarter agreement with ISA. Wind Energy The National Offshore wind energy policy was notified in October 2015 with an objective to develop the offshore wind energy in the Indian Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) along the Indian coastline. LiDAR was commissioned on the monopile platform in November 2017 at Gulf of Khambhat, off Gujarat coast for wind resource assessment. The expansion of the wind industry has resulted in a strong ecosystem, project operation capabilities and a manufacturing base. State-of-the-art technologies are now available in the country for the manufacture of wind turbines. Bio-Power Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has been promoting programmes to promote Biomass Power and Bagasse Cogeneration in the country with an objective to utilize country’s available biomass resources like bagasse, rice husk, straw, cotton stalk, coconut shells etc. for power generation. Waste to Energy projects are also being set up for generation of Energy from Urban, Industrial and Agricultural Waste / Residues such as municipal solid wastes, vegetable and other market wastes, slaughterhouse waste, agricultural residues and industrial wastes & effluents. Energy Storage Energy Storage is one of the crucial & critical components of India's energy infrastructure strategy and also for supporting India's sustained thrust to renewables and electric mobility.  With an objective to strive towards leadership in the energy storage sector by creating an enabling policy and regulatory framework, a comprehensive National Energy Storage Mission (NESM) has been developed. The Mission focuses on demand creation, indigenous manufacturing, innovation and necessary policy support for proliferation of Energy Storage in the country. Off-grid renewables Implementation of off grid and Decentralized renewables programme for meeting energy demand for cooking, lighting, motive power, space heating, hot water generation, etc. Supporting deployment of decentralized solar applications like solar lanterns, solar street lights, solar home lights, solar pumps, etc. in the country Research & Development The focus is on promoting application-oriented innovation, integrated with research and development for for commercial applications and testing and standardization for quality and reliability assurance in renewable energy sector. Technology Development and Innovation Policy (TDIP): It is based on a robust ecosystem for support for research, innovation and validation for technology development and demonstration, testing and standardization, awards for innovation linked with start-ups. Policy initiatives taken by the Government to enhance domestic production of oil and gas Policy for Relaxations, Extensions and Clarifications under Production Sharing Contract (PSC) regime for early monetization of hydrocarbon discoveries, 2014. Discovered Small Field Policy, 2015. Hydrocarbon Exploration and Licensing Policy, 2016. Policy for Extension of Production Sharing Contracts, 2016 and 2017. Policy for early monetization of Coal Bed Methane. Setting up of National Data Repository, 2017. Appraisal of unappraised areas in Sedimentary Basins. Re-assessment of Hydrocarbon Resources. Policy framework to streamline the working of Production Sharing Contracts in Pre-NELP and NELP Blocks, 2018. Policy to Promote and Incentivize Enhanced Recovery Methods for Oil and Gas, 2018. Policy framework for exploration and exploitation of Unconventional Hydrocarbons under existing Production Sharing Contracts, Coal Bed Methane contracts and Nomination fields, 2018. National Policy on Biofuels – 2018 (Topic: Energy) The Government has notified National Policy on Biofuels 2018 which is expected to give boost to the biofuel programme of the country. Categorization of biofuels as “Basic Biofuels” viz. First Generation (1G) bio ethanol & biodiesel and “Advanced Biofuels” – Second Generation (2G) ethanol, bio-CNG etc. to enable extension of appropriate financial and fiscal incentives under each category. Expanding the scope of raw material for ethanol production by allowing use of sugarcane Juice, sugar containing materials like sugar beet, sweet sorghum, starch containing materials like corn, cassava, damaged food grains like wheat, broken rice, rotten potatoes, unfit for human consumption for ethanol production. The Policy allows use of surplus food grains for production of ethanol for blending with petrol with the approval of National Biofuel Coordination Committee. With a thrust on Advanced Biofuels, the Policy indicates a viability gap funding scheme for 2G ethanol Bio refineries of Rs.5000 crores in 6 years in addition to additional tax incentives, higher purchase price as compared to 1G biofuels. Year End Review 2018 – Ministry of Power 9 States achieve 100 % household electrification under Saubhagya (universal electrification); total 16 states have 100 % household electrification now More than 2 crore electricity connections released under Saubhagya and 100 per cent village electrification achieved under DDUGJY (Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana – 100 per cent village electrification) Energy deficit reduced to almost zero and India emerges as net exporter of electricity to Nepal, Bangladesh and Myanmar 31.68 crore LED bulbs distributed under UJALA (Unnat Jyoti by Affordable LED for All) scheme and 74.79 lakh LED street lights have been installed India’s rank improved to 24 in 2018 from 137 in 2014 on World Bank’s Ease of doing business - "Getting Electricity" Ranking National E-Mobility Programme launched to provide an impetus to the entire e-mobility ecosystem including vehicle manufacturers, charging infrastructure companies, fleet operators, service providers, etc. The Chiller Star Labelling Program has been launched by Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) to encourage the deployment of Energy Efficient chiller systems. The program envisages providing star rating in terms of its energy performance. Energy Conservation Guidelines launched for large scale industries to promote equipment efficiency by reducing energy consumption with the help of standardizing the energy performance values of various energy-consuming equipment and systems deployed for the manufacturing process. PRAAPTI: A Web portal and an App namely PRAAPTI (Payment Ratification And Analysis in Power procurement) for bringing transparency in invoicing of generators Ash Track- linking fly ash users and power plants for better ash utilisation (Web based monitoring System and a Fly Ash mobile application). These platforms will enable better management of the ash produced by thermal power plants by providing an interface between fly ash producers (Thermal Power Plants) and potential ash users such as – road contractors, cement plants etc. Successful Test Firing of Long-Range Missile Agni V (Topic: Space and Technology; Indigenous technology) Agni V, a long-range surface-to-surface Nuclear Capable Ballistic missile, was successfully launched from a canister on a road mobile launcher at the Dr Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha. Features Has a strike range of 5,000 km Agni-5 is a three-stage missile and is 17-metre-tall and 2 metre wide. This is the seventh trial of the indigenously-developed surface-to-surface missile. It is capable of carrying 1.5 tonnes of nuclear warheads. India has in its armoury the Agni missile series - Agni-1 with a range of 700 km, Agni-2 with a range of 2,000 km, Agni-3 and Agni-4 with 2,500 km to more than 3,500 km range. The Agni-5 is the latest and most advanced variant in terms of navigation and guidance, warhead and engine. The missile has a payload capacity of 1,500 kg of high-explosive warhead and once inducted in the military, India will join an exclusive club of countries like the US, Russia, China, France, and Britain which have intercontinental ballistic missile capabilities. Programming of AGNI-5 Missile The missile is programmed in such a way that after reaching the peak of its trajectory, it turns towards the earth to continue its journey to the target with an increased speed, due to the earth's gravitational pull, and its path precisely directed by the advanced onboard computer and inertial navigation system. As the missile enters the earth's atmosphere, the atmospheric air rubbing its outer surface skin raises the temperature to beyond 4,000 degree Celsius. However, the indigenously-designed and developed heat shield maintains the inside temperature at less than 50 degree Celsius. Finally, commanded by the onboard computer with the support of laser gyro-based inertial navigation system, micro inertial navigation system (MINS), fully digital control system and advanced compact avionics, the missile hit the designated target point accurately, meeting all mission objectives, the sources said. The ships located in mid-range and at the target point tracked the vehicle and witnessed the final event. All the radars and electro-optical systems along the path monitored the parameters of the missile and displayed them in real time. Please Note: Indian Railway employee conferred with prestigious Sahitya Akademi Award for his novel “Marom” in Santhali language: Shri Shyam Sundar Besra INDRA NAVY: The bilateral maritime exercise between Indian Navy and Russian Federation Navy Rural Roads: State subject PM hands over tricolour to Arunima Sinha on her expedition to Mount Vinson, Antarctica: She is the first female Divyang to climb Mount Everest Rural housing scheme Indira Awaas yojana (IAY) has been restructured into Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana –Gramin (PMAY-G) which envisages training of Rural Masons with the objective of improving workmanship and quality of construction of houses while at the same time, increasing availability of skilled masons and enhancing employability of such masons. Shyama Prasad Mukherji Rurban Mission (SPMRM): To deliver catalytic interventions to rural areas on the threshold of growth. Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) has two components Centrally Sponsored Centrally Managed (CSCM) being implemented by National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) Centrally Sponsored State Managed (CSSM) being implemented by State Skill Development Missions of the States/ UTs popularly known as State- Engagement Component of PMKVY (2016-20). Training under PMKVY 2016-20 is being imparted in National Skill Qualification Framework (NSQF) aligned Job Roles. Under the scheme, focus on employment has been significantly enhanced and candidates have been placed in various sectors and industries including small and medium enterprises across the country including the State of West Bengal. Swasth North East Initiative: In addition to the efforts of the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare for improvement of healthcare facilities, the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region has taken up a total of 56 projects in the medical & health sector under its Non-Lapsable Central Pool of Resources (NLCPR) scheme, out of which 37 are already completed and 19 are ongoing. NLCPR scheme has been restructured as North East Special Infrastructure Development Scheme (NESIDS), which is fully funded by the Central Government. One of the objectives of NESIDS is creation of infrastructure in the areas of primary and secondary sectors of education and health. Pradhan Mantri Ujjawala Yojana (PMUY): A deposit free LPG connection is provided to the woman member of a BPL family with cash assistance up to₹ 1600 per connection. Till date, the Government has released ₹ 7680 crore to OMCs in lieu of release of LPG connections under PMUY. PAHAL: Government, as a measure of Good Governance, has introduced well targeted system of subsidy delivery to LPG consumers through PAHAL. Aimed at rationalizing subsidies based on approach to cut subsidy leakages, but not subsidies themselves. PAHAL has entered into Guinness book of World record being largest Direct Benefit Transfer scheme. So far, more than Rs. 96,625 crore have been transferred into the bank accounts of consumers and more than 23.08 crore LPG consumers have joined. PAHAL has helped in identifying ‘ghost’ accounts, multiple accounts and inactive accounts. This has helped in curbing diversion of subsidized LPG to commercial purposes. So far, estimated savings due to implementation of Pahal is approximately Rs 50,000 crore. SATAT Initiative: Sustainable Alternative towards Affordable Transportation (SATAT initiative) FAME-India Scheme- Phase-I [Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehicles in India]: In order to promote manufacturing of electric and hybrid vehicle technology and to ensure sustainable growth of the same. The Phase-II of the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehicles (FAME-India) Scheme proposes to give a push to electric vehicles (EVs) in public transport and seeks to encourage adoption of EVs by way of market creation and demand aggregation. The draft scheme envisages the holistic growth of EV industry, including providing for charging infrastructure, research and development of EV technologies and push towards greater indigenization. The scheme has not been finalized yet. Launch of ‘Ensure’ - National Livestock Mission-EDEG: To connect with Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) In order to make it better, simpler and transparent, the NABARD has developed an online portal “ENSURE” (https://ensure.nabard.org) so that the information related to beneficiary and processing of application can be made readily available. Developed by NABARD and operated under the Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairying & Fisheries Launch of Indian Ports Association Launches ‘PCS 1x’ to Increase Ease of Doing Business: ‘PCS 1x’ is a cloud based new generation technology, with user-friendly interface.  This system seamlessly integrates 8 new stakeholders besides the 19 existing stakeholders from the maritime trade on a single platform. Draft Space Activities Bill, 2017: To facilitate the overall growth of the space activities in India with higher order of participation of public/ non-governmental/ private sector stakeholders. The Bill provides for establishment of a regulatory mechanism through an appropriate body, by the Central Government for the purpose of authorization and licensing of space activities. Results of ‘Situation Assessment Survey of Agricultural Households’ conducted by National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) in 2013, show that about 63.5 percent of the agricultural households in the rural areas of the country reported cultivation as their principal source of income. Implementation of Swaminathan Committee Report: One of the recommendations of Commission was that MSP should be at least 50 percent more than the weighted average cost of production. This recommendation was not incorporated in the National policy for Farmers 2007. However, recently Government has increased the MSP for all Kharif and Rabi crops and other commercial crops for the season 2018-19 with a return of at least 50 percent over cost of production, which was a historic decision by the Government. Government fixes-the Minimum Support Prices (MSPs) of various agricultural crops on the recommendations of the Commission for Agricultural Costs & Prices (CACP), after ascertaining the views of State Governments and Central Ministries/ Departments concerned. While recommending MSPs, CACP considers the following – Cost of production Demand-supply situation Trends in domestic and international prices Inter-crop price parity Terms of trade between agricultural and non-agricultural sectors and The likely impact of MSP on consumers and overall economy along with rational utilization of scarce natural resources like land and water Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana: Various measures namely, timelines for settlement of claims, leveraging of technology for assessment of yield by State Government agencies using smartphone/CCE Agri App, integration of all individual farmer data on National Crop Insurance Portal etc. have been taken under PMFBY.  However, due to use of manual process for transmission yield data; late release of their share in premium subsidy by some States like Andhra Pradesh and Telangana; yield related disputes between insurance companies and States, non-receipt of account details of some farmers for transfer of claims etc. settlement of claims in some States has been delayed under the scheme. National Food Security Act, 2013 provides for identification of beneficiaries under two categories- Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) and Priority Households (PHH). While the eligible families under AAY are to be identified as per the criteria evolved for the scheme, the identification under PHH is to be done as per the criteria evolved by the States/UTs. 5th Meeting of India-Russia Parliamentary Commission The Chairman of ‘Duma’ (counterpart of the Lok Sabha) of the Russian Parliament, Mr. Vyacheslav Volodin called for an enabling legislative framework to fully tap the immense potential of bilateral cooperation between India and Russia. There is a need for enhancing parliamentary exchanges between the two countries to enable necessary legislative framework to fully harness the potential of India-Russia ties in various sectors. There is a need to further build upon the traditional friendship between the two countries for mutual advantage in the fields of economy, human development and cultural cooperation”. Referring to the immense opportunities in the fields of tourism and medical education, Mr. Volodin called for addressing bureaucratic delays. He further said that bilateral trade increased by about 21% last year and still there is scope to go much beyond. 2018 – Landmark for India in terms of achievements in Sports arena Government’s two-pronged approach to sports – nurture top sports talent and find untapped sports stars at the grassroots, has yielded positive outcome. India recorded its best ever performance this year in the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games with 66 Medals, Jakarta Asian Games with 69 Medals and Para Asian Games with 72 Medals. National Sports Development Fund (NSDF) was established with the objective of promotion of excellence in sports through support to top level sportspersons who are medal prospects in Olympics and other major international competitions and creation of sports infrastructure in priority disciplines etc. The Fund accepts contributions from private/public corporate sectors, other legal bodies like Trusts/Societies, individuals etc. Performance in Commonwealth Games, 2018: With 26 Gold medals and a total of 66 medals (26 Gold, 20 Silver and 20 Bronze), India finished 3rd for the tournament. It was India's best position since the 2010 Commonwealth Games. Khelo India Talent Identification Development scheme: The scholarship programme is designed to take care of their expenses including training, development, boarding and lodging and tournament exposure apart from offering them out of pocket expense allowance. Under this programme, an annual stipend of Rs. 1.2 lakhs will be given to the players on a quarterly to meet their out of pocket expenses, treating injuries and even smaller but very important elements like local travel for themselves and their parents/ family members. National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA): As per the annual statistics report published by World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), the number of anti-doping rule violation in India has come down. Such decrease in the number of doping incidences brought India from 3rd to 6th place globally. Commendable performance by Indian Sportspersons in Asian Games, 2018, and Para Asian Games, 2018: Indian sportspersons and teams put a very commendable performance in Asian Games 2018 held at Jakarta and Palembang (Indonesia) from 18th August to 2nd September, 2018. India won 69 medals (15 Gold, 24 Sliver and 30 Bronze) and was placed at 8th position in medals tally. India finished overall 9th in the medals tally with 72 medals (15 Gold, 24 Silver and 33 Bronze medals) the highest ever by India at an Asian Para Game (APG), outdoing the previous best by a huge margin. 2018 AIBA Women's World Boxing Championships: In the finals of the light flyweight category Mary Kom of India beat Ukrainian boxer Hana Okhota to win the gold, creating history by becoming the first woman boxer to win six gold medals in the AIBA World Boxing Championships. India stood 3rd in the medal tally with one gold, one silver and two bronze. National Centre of Sports Sciences and Research (NCSSR) which aims to support high level research, education and innovation with respect to high performance of elite athletes has been started. The scheme has two components: One is setting up of NCSSR at NIS, Patiala, and other is focused on creation of support to Sports Sciences Department in select Universities and Sports Medicine Departments in select Medical Colleges/ Institutes/ Hospitals. Low Rate of Silk Cocoons The major reasons for fall in cocoon prices are increase in arrival of cocoons to the market. As cocoon marketing is a state subject, the state governments have been providing various support measures to farmers including price incentives for cocoons. The Government of India through Central Silk Board is implementing a Central Sector Scheme - Silk Samagra: To provide technical and technological support in the country including Karnataka State which comprises the following four components: Research & Development, Training, Transfer of Technology and I.T. Initiatives Seed Organizations Coordination and Market Development, and Quality Certification Systems (QCS) / Export Brand Promotion and Technology Up-gradation. Under this scheme, assistance and subsidy is extended to silk farmers and stakeholders through states for Raising of kisan nursery Plantation with improved mulberry varieties Irrigation Chawki rearing centres with incubation facility Construction of rearing houses Rearing equipment Door-to- door service agents for disinfection and input supply Support for improved reeling units like automatic reeling units, multi-end reeling machines, improved Vanya reeling & twisting machines Support for post yarn facilities for quality silk and fabric production. Support provided under these interventions and areas would enable the silk farmers and stake holders to get reasonable price for their produce. National Mission on Government e-Market (GeM) portal To accelerate the adoption and use of Procurement by Major Central Ministries, States and UTs and their agencies (including CPSUs/PSUs, Local Bodies) on the GeM platform. Promote inclusiveness by catapulting various categories of sellers and service providers Highlight and communicate ‘value add’ by way of transparency and efficiency in public procurement, including corruption free governance. Achieve cashless, contactless and paperless transaction, in line with Digital India objectives. Increase overall efficiency leading to significant cost saving on government expenditure in Procurement. Maximizing ease in availability of all types of products and services bought by Government buyers. GeM has brought transparency, efficiency, and inclusiveness in public procurement. It has reduced the time of procurements, reduced the process and enabled ease of doing business for both buyers and vendors. Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) In order to give focused attention to policy issue and meaningful thrust to the activities aimed at welfare and empowerment of the person with disabilities, a separate Department of Disability Affairs was carved out of the Ministry of Social justice & Empowerment. Undertaking following measures for rehabilitation: Physical rehabilitation, which includes early detection and intervention counselling and medical rehabilitation and assistance in procuring appropriate aids and appliances for reducing the effect of disabilities; Educational rehabilitation including vocational education and Economic rehabilitation and social empowerment. Developing rehabilitation professionals/personnel. Improving internal efficiency/responsiveness/service delivery. Advocating empowerment of person with disabilities through awareness generation among different sections of the society. 5 E’s have to be given importance: Education of high quality Equality of opportunity in all fields Empowerment through skiling Emancipation from discriminatory and exploitative practices Enabling conditions for economic upliftment, including equal rights to property Person in news Mahakavi Subramania Bharatiyar Ignited resurgence in Tamil literature and he drew inspiration from ancient sources of Indian culture. Thiru Bharatiyar left behind an extraordinary legacy of poetry and prose writings and his works gave form and vitality to the present-day Tamil literature. Shri Bharatiyar in one of his poems wrote that there is no caste system and it is a sin to divide people on caste basis. He advocated equality of human beings, and fought for rights of women His appeal was to our common humanity, an eternal optimist, his rallying cry was, “Nalla kalam varuguthu!” – “the best of times lies ahead!” He urged his brethren to keep moving forward bravely, disregarding the daunting odds that blocked their path Quotes Vice President of India, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu On 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development India takes note of the IPU is working on priority areas such as human rights, gender equity, child protection, sustainable development, climate change, migration etc. 2030 Agenda and its 17 Sustainable Developmental Goals (SDGs) mirror our own vision of development. Several of our initiatives like the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, Swachh Bharat, Jan Dhan Yojana etc., closely relate to several targets of SDGs Terrorism is a big menace to world community and it has no religion, but our neighbour is unfortunately funding and abetting it. Poverty is also a challenge for all of us and we have to support each other and move forward with much greater coordination and cooperation At PMNCH Partners’ Forum It is only partnerships that will get us to our goals. Partnerships between citizens, Partnerships between communities, Partnerships between countries. The Sustainable Development agenda is a reflection of this. Countries have moved beyond stand-alone efforts. They are committed to empowering communities, improving health and education, ending poverty and spurring boosting economic growth and ultimately, leaving no one behind. The health of mothers will determine the health of the children and the health of children will determine the health of our tomorrow. The Partners’ Forum vision is in line with India’s ancient wisdom of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”, ‘The World is one family’. It is also in line with my government’s philosophy of “Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas”, which means, collective efforts and partnerships for inclusive growth. When the Millennium Development Goals were agreed on, India had one of the world’s highest mortality rates for women and children. With sustained momentum, and a faster rate of decline during the last few years, India is on course to attend the SDG targets for maternal and child health, much ahead of the agreed date of 2030. India was one of the first countries, to advocate focused attention on adolescence and implement an extensive health promotion and prevention programme for adolescents. Our effort ensured that they get their due recognition in the Global Strategy for Women’s Children’s and Adolescents’ Health adopted in 2015. Tackle malnutrition Scientists working in the fields of health, agriculture and nutrition must work together and exchange knowledge India needs to focus both on food security as well as nutrition security; Prioritize the elimination of the triple burden of malnutrition; under-nutrition, over-nutrition and micronutrients deficiencies;