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IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

Daily Current Affairs [IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam] – 11th December 2018

Daily Current Affairs [IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam] – 11th December 2018 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Land acquisition law challenged in court Part of: GS Mains II and III – Social Issue; Land acquisition and Land Reforms; Governance; Government schemes and policies In news: The Supreme Court decided to examine a plea challenging the legality of amendments brought in by Tamil Nadu and four other States (Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Jharkhand), which allow authorities to bypass the need to take farmers’ consent before their land is acquired for large infrastructure projects. The petition filed by activist Medha Patkar said the States allow land acquisition without participation of representative local bodies like gram sabha in social impact assessment studies, without expert appraisal processes, public hearings, objections, and safeguard provisions to ensure food security. (violates the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act of 2013) In yesterday’s article we read few provisions under LAAR Act 2013 It compels a social and environmental impact assessment as a precondition for any acquisition. It also acknowledges a need for a system of rehabilitation and resettlement for those whose livelihoods are likely to be affected by the transfer of land. The law provided for greatly enhanced compensation, consent of those whose land was sought to be acquired, and detailed rehabilitation and resettlement provisions (including employment, land for land, and other beneficial schemes). In other words, it changed the relationship between the state and the individual by empowering the latter against the former. It mandates that 70% of the affected land owners should consent to the acquisition of land for a public private participation project. It also included a retrospective clause. Section 24 of the new Act provided that under certain circumstances, acquired land could be returned to affected families. Do you know? The 2013 Act replaced its colonial predecessor of 1894 and was intended to uphold the farmers’ right to dignity and life. The amendments brought in by above mentioned states violate the “core spirit” of the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act of 2013. (LAAR Act) Gilets Jaunes movement/Yellow Vest movement Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – International Affairs In news: The yellow vests movement (Gilets Jaunes movement) is a citizens’ protest movement began in early November 2018 against a planned rise in the tax on diesel and petrol, which French President Emmanuel Macron insisted would aid the country’s transition to green energy. The movement was named “gilets jaunes” (yellow vests) because protesters wear the fluorescent yellow high-vis jackets that all motorists must by law carry in their cars. But what began as a fuel tax protest has now morphed into a wider anti-government movement. Do you know? Unlike previous French protest movements, it sprang up online through petitions and was organised by ordinary working people posting videos on social media, without a set leader, trade union or political party behind it. Who are the protesters and what are their grievances? Protesters have largely come from peripheral towns, cities and rural areas across France and include many women and single mothers. Most of the protesters have jobs, including as secretaries, IT workers, factory workers, delivery workers and care workers. All say their low incomes mean they cannot make ends meet at the end of the month. The movement is predominantly against a tax system perceived as unfair and unjust, but there are numerous grievances and differences of opinion. Most want to scrap the fuel taxes, hold a review of the tax system, raise the minimum wage and roll back Macron’s tax cuts for the wealthy and his pro-business economic programme. But some also want parliament dissolved and Macron to resign. Grigorovich-class frigates in 3 years Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II and III – Defence; International relations In news: The first of the four Admiral Grigorovich-class guided missile stealth frigates is likely to be inducted into the Indian Navy in the next three years. Rear Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi says two will be built in Russia and two in Goa. The 4,000-odd tonne frigates can be armed with Brahmos cruise missile system, array of weapon system that include artillery guns, strike missile and radar-controlled air defence systems with provisions for torpedo tubes. Do you know? Russia-India defence cooperation INDRA-NAVY-18 – bilateral maritime exercise between Indian Navy and Russian Federation Navy. Two Sindhughosh-class submarines, reportedly Sindhukesari and Sindhuraj, are undergoing medium refit at a shipyard in Russia. A second Akula-class nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN) may be leased to India by the Russian Federation Navy. India already operates a leased Akula-class SSN, INS Chakra, which is based at Eastern Naval Command. We read recently about ‘Cope India 2018’ ‘Cope India 2018’ - U.S. and India joint air exercises Kaiga n-power unit creates world record Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Infrastructure; Energy In news: The Kaiga nuclear power plant, which is located in western Karnataka, has created a world record for the longest uninterrupted operation of 941 days. It broke the earlier record of 940 days by the Heysham plant in the United Kingdom. While the Kaiga (KGS-1) is a Pressurised Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR), Heysham-2 Unit-8 is an Advanced Gas Cooled Reactor (AGR). The achievement demonstrates that the nation’s capability in nuclear power generation technology of PHWR had fully matured and proved the excellence in design, construction, safety, quality and operation and maintenance practices of the Corportion. About Kaiga nuclear power plant The KGS-1, located 56 km from Karwar, has been generating electricity continuously since May 13, 2016. It is an indigenously-built PHWR run by domestic fuel (uranium). It began commercial operations on November 16, 2000, and has produced 500 cr. units of power so far. In June this year, KGS-1 had set a national record for continuous operation of 766 days. According to official sources, KGS-1 will be shutdown for maintenance on December 30. Nuclear reactors undergo mandatory checks and have to get clearance from the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board to continue operations. Centre rejects minority religion status to Lingayats In news: The Union Ministry of Minority Affairs (MMA) reiterated its earlier stand that the Lingayat/Veerashaiva community is considered as “a religious sect of Hindus.” It communicated to Karnataka that it was not possible to accede to the State’s recommendation to grant minority religion status to Lingayat/Veerashaiva community. MMA noted that Lingayats have always been classified under Hindu sect ever since 1871 census. Do you know? The Union Government set up the National Commission for Minorities (NCM) under the National Commission for Minorities Act, 1992. Five   religious   communities,   viz; Muslims,   Christians, Sikhs,  Buddhists and Zoroastrians (Parsis)   have been notified as minority communities by the Union Government. Miscellaneous: Person in news: Mushirul Hasan Mushirul Hasan, who passed away on December 10, was one of India’s most distinguished historians and educationists. He served on a host of national bodies — including the UGC and the ICHR — as an articulate member — and worked with the Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Fund. He was Vice-Chancellor of Jamia Millia Islamia, where he was Professor of History for most of his professional life. And he was Director-General of the National Archives to which he lent distinction. Major work - history of India’s Muslims under colonialism He rescued Muslims from stereotypes. Hasan believed social, cultural ethos guided them along tolerant road unless forced by exigencies. Bird sanctuary in news: Mangalajodi bird sanctuary Mangalajodi bird sanctuary is located in Odisha (on the banks of the Chilika Lake) Migratory birds - Pacific black duck – were spotted (MAINS FOCUS) NATIONAL/ECONOMY TOPIC:General studies 2 and 3 Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment. Resignation of RBI Governor and its impact on Indian Economy Introduction: In a surprising move, Reserve Bank of India’s Governor Urjit Patel resigned citing personal reasons. His resignation comes against the backdrop of increasing tensions between the Finance ministry and the Reserve Bank of India. N.S. Vishwanathan (senior most among the four Deputy Governors) gets interim charge. Mr. Vishwanathan was appointed as Deputy Governor in July 2016. In recent months, the government and the RBI have been at loggerheads over whether the RBI has been too hawkish in its stance towards lenders and the economy given a drop in the inflation rate and signs of slower growth, as well as in the face of defaults by a major lender. Patel is fifth RBI Governor in free India to resign Urjit Patel is the fifth RBI Governor in independent India to have resigned from his post before his term was over. The first RBI Governor to do so was Benegal Rama Rau who was Governor from 1949 to 1957. Experts say Rau resigned because of his differences with then Finance Minister T.T. Krishnamachari. KR Puri, RN Malhotra and Bimal Jalan were the other RBI Governors who resigned from their post. However, the precedent for an RBI Governor resigning was set before Independence, when the first Governor, Sir Osborn Smith resigned in 1937 due to differences with the Finance Member of the Viceroy’s Council. How does his resignation impact the Economy? Economists have cautioned that it will cause jitters in the stock market and uncertainty over the central bank’s policies regarding non-monetary policy issues such as Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) norms, and diluting the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code rules for power sector companies. India’s currency and stocks are set to slide. Market to fall quite significantly. Indian market is being driven more by global factors than what’s been happening here. Economists suspect things may get pretty bad in future. Economists also say that there is uncertainty on the other issues that come under the RBI Governor’s purview. (macroprudential regulations, liquidity infusions etc) Investors, especially institutional, would look at the development as a corroboration of the growing rift between the central bank and the government — a sign not healthy to the financial markets. It will raise concerns of not only foreign investors, but also domestic investors, especially at a time when liquidity remains tight. Ratings agency Moody’s Investors Service reacted to the resignation of Reserve Bank of India Governor Urjit Patel, saying that any government attempt to curtail the central bank’s independence will be credit negative. The ratings agency said independence of central bank is an important consideration of its assessment of a country’s institutional strength. Connecting the dots: An independent central bank augurs well for a democratic politico-economy. However, there should be a mechanism to make RBI and its governor accountable to the Parliament. Do you agree? Critically examine. DISASTER MANAGEMENT TOPIC:General studies 3 Disaster and disaster management. Global lessons from natural calamities: Disaster Risk Insurance Introduction: As India is vulnerable to natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, tsunamis and cyclones, DISASTER RISK INSURANCE programme can play a key role. The real cost of floods across Kerala in August may never be really known. Hundreds dead, thousands displaced, millions lost. The scale of damage from any natural disaster can never really be measured because of the long-term ecological and psychological effects. The spread of diseases, such as cholera, malaria, and leptospirosis, may impact flood-hit communities beyond the crisis for years to come. Tourism has been hit. We react every time there is a disaster. We band together and raise funds, help victims and volunteer time to clean up and rebuild. However, the task before us should be to move from a reactive stance to proactively prepare for natural disasters (through Disaster Risk Insurance). Concerns: Impact of disaster has increased due to large urban migration. India alone is projected to have seven megacities—defined by a population of more than 10 million—by 2030, according to World Economic Forum. This confluence of climate change, natural disasters, and human density could lead to more Kerala-like images. It becomes very difficult to rebuild societies in the event of any natural catastrophe and to minimize any long-term impact by reducing the gap between economic losses and available funding, known as the protection gap. Do you know? The cost of recovery and reconstruction in Kerala has been put at ₹31,000 crore, according to a UN report. However, the annual allocation by both state and central authorities to Kerala’s disaster relief fund is a mere ₹214 crore. Taking into consideration of additional funds from the central government’s National Disaster Response Fund; commercial and private insurance claims – the current estimate is believed to be no more than ₹2,500 crore. That means, in this scenario, the protection gap is upwards of ₹25,000 crore. Solution: The GST Council has now been asked to examine the feasibility of a disaster levy to finance disaster-related reconstruction. But it is not sure whether a state levy will sufficiently incentivize states to improve their disaster risk management. Therefore the way ahead is to transfer disaster risks over to the insurers or reinsurers. Disaster Risk Insurance Benefits: Immediate payouts can be made through parametric solutions based on the amount of rainfall or the intensity of a drought, for example. Governments would be transparency over funding. Immediate payouts to citizens. There are numerous examples for Kerala—and India—to follow. For example, America’s National Flood Insurance Program the Caribbean’s 16-country hurricane, earthquake and rainfall risk insurance fund Mexico’s FONDEN programme China’s provincial Guangdong and Heilongjiang governments have purchased insurance against natural disasters as a means of fiscal budget protection—the idea being that a disaster will hit multiple areas of a budget beyond the core. All these are comprehensive disaster-risk financing strategy comprising reserve funding, reinsurance and catastrophe bonds. Several of these programmes have responded with timely payouts following recent natural disasters. Conclusion: Disaster Insurance Programmes are especially relevant in India’s developing environment of competitive federalism, where state governments are expected to rely less on federal assistance, especially when it comes to funding post-disaster reconstruction. Insurance purchased on the government account will serve to plug the gap in reconstruction financing. (immediate relief, rehabilitation, restoration and rebuilding of infrastructure) States can pay for insurance premiums from the disaster relief fund allocations. This will not only promote greater financial autonomy at the state level, but also has the advantage of requiring no additional budgeting by New Delhi. Connecting the dots: Examine the significance of State-sponsored Disaster Risk Insurance programmes in disaster management. Take suitable examples. (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) Gilets Jaunes movement or Yellow Vest movement is associated with which among the following country – Russia France Crimea Turkey Q.2) Consider the following exercises and choose the correct pair/s: INDRA-NAVY : : India-Russia Cope India : : India-China Yudh Abhyas : : India-US Choose correct answer: 1 only 1 and 3 only 1 and 2 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.3) Kaiga nuclear power plant, which recently created a world record for the longest uninterrupted operation of 941 days is located in – Tamil Nadu Karnataka Kerala Maharashtra MUST READ Ascent to the temple of democracy The Hindu Anchored in human rights The Hindu Shape of a partnership Indian Express Raja Mandala: The tech wars are here Meng Wanzhou arrest Indian Express Natural enemies vs man-made enemies Livemint Towards better fuel efficiency standards Livemint Drawing that line in the sands of the internet Livemint

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2019 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 127]

UPSC Quiz - 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 127] Archives Q.1) ‘Chang'e 4’ is a lunar exploration mission that aims to achieve the first soft-landing on the far side of the Moon. It is launched by India China US Japan Q.2) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘VISIONS-2 mission’ It aims to explore how the Earth’s atmosphere is slowly leaking in to space It is a joint mission by ISRO and NASA Select the correct code: 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Sivalik Hills’ They are a mountain range of the outer Himalayas They are chiefly composed of sandstone and conglomerate rock formations Select the correct code: 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4) ‘Qumran Caves’ are located in Syria Jordan Kazakhstan None of the above Q.5) Which of the following countries is not a member of ‘Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)’? Kuwait Bahrain Qatar Iraq To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

Daily Current Affairs [IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam] – 10th December 2018

Daily Current Affairs [IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam] – 10th December 2018 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Centre amends Citizenship Rules, 2009 Part of: GS Mains II and III – Indian Polity; Internal Security and Security issues In news: Union Home Ministry has notified amendments to the Citizenship Rules, 2009. What are those amendments? Now Citizenship Rules to include a separate column in the citizenship form for applicants belonging to six minority communities from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh. In other words, a separate entry in the form will ask the applicant: “Do you belong to one of the minority communities from Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan — Hindus, Jains, Buddhists, Parsis, Sikhs and Christians?” The Centre has made the changes under Section 18 of the Citizenship Act, 1955. Do you know? A parliamentary committee has been examining the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2016, that proposes citizenship to above six persecuted minorities from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh, who came to India before 2014. However, the above proposed provision has run into strong resistance in the BJP-ruled Assam because it will pave the way for giving citizenship mostly to illegal Hindu migrants from Bangladesh in Assam, who came after March 1971, in violation of the 1985 Assam Accord. Dalit struggle and sacrifice Person in news Part of: GS Mains II and IV – Social/Dalit issue; Essay and Ethics In news: There are many stories of Dalit struggle and sacrifice — largely unheard in mainstream media and literature. Below are few examples and personalities who made an impact on their surroundings and society. (can be used in GS Mains - Social issue answers; Essay and Ethics) These are people who have largely worked in interior Tamil Nadu taking on oppression of Dalits on basic issues like rights to a graveyard, or water, and other civil rights problems. Some of them were killed fighting for these rights. Kandan, a dalit from small village of Vanjinagaram, near Melur in Tamil Nadu He took on caste oppression in the village and spearheaded a movement to draw water from public well and press for rights. In 1987, Kandan was hacked to death. He sacrificed his life seeking equality and basic civil rights.    Veerammal She founded the Annai Ashram. Veerammal started a school for Dalit girls in the 1950s near Tiruchi. This school grew to run classes up to the 12th standard. She then started an ITI, and a children’s home but there is no mention of her in the mainstream. Meenammal She led an anti-Hindi agitation in Chennai. James Tremmond Heer He was a foreigner and the Collector of Chengalpattu in 1892. He recommended to the government that 12 lakh acres of Depressed Class land be given to the Dalits. Vishwanath Precinct Development Project Part of: GS Mains I: Conservation-restoration of cultural heritage In news: Beautification plan destroys oldest neighbourhoods in Varanasi. Around the temple of Lord Vishwanath, destruction is taking place on a scale this ancient city hasn’t witnessed in modern times. A strip of land — measuring 43,636 sq m — between the 18th century shrine and the River Ganga — is being cleared of all construction, many perhaps as old as the temple itself, so that pilgrims have an easier access through a wide and beautified corridor that has been planned under the Kashi Vishwanath Precinct Development Project. JICA project faces land acquisition issues Part of: GS Mains II and III – Social Issue; Land acquisition and Land Reforms; Governance; Government schemes and policies In news: The government acquired land from private parties have long been the subject of heated dispute, often resulting in violent conflict. Recently, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) held meetings with farmers, their representatives and activists opposing land acquisition for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project. The JICA funds the project. The meeting was to understand their concerns and demands for parting with their land. Do you know? Over 1,000 farmers have filed affidavits, contending that the process violates the guidelines of the JICA. They had demanded for a fresh environment impact assessment and a social impact assessment. Farmers allege that - As per JICA guidelines, there must be fair compensation for those whose land is acquired for any project funded by it; but in the case of the bullet train project, the Gujarat government has diluted the provisions so that compensation comes down. In other words, the State has diluted the Land Acquisition Act, 2013, after Japan entered into a contract in September 2015 with the Indian government to build the country’s first bullet train corridor between Mumbai to Ahmedabad. The Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013 (LARR Act): The number of safeguards that the law legislates has made the process of acquisition manifestly fairer. For instance, it compels a social and environmental impact assessment as a precondition for any acquisition. Besides, it also acknowledges a need for a system of rehabilitation and resettlement for those whose livelihoods are likely to be affected by the transfer of land. The law provided for greatly enhanced compensation, consent of those whose land was sought to be acquired, and detailed rehabilitation and resettlement provisions (including employment, land for land, and other beneficial schemes). In other words, it changed the relationship between the state and the individual by empowering the latter against the former. It also included a retrospective clause. Section 24 of the new Act provided that under certain circumstances, acquired land could be returned to affected families. Pak. issues visas to visit Shiva temple Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – India and its neighbours; International Relations In news: Going ahead with a people-oriented diplomacy, Pakistan has issued a large number of visas for Indian pilgrims who are expected to visit the famed Shiva temple at Katas Raj Dham, near the city of Lahore. Do you know? Katas Raj is a complex of ancient temples that is among the most important Hindu pilgrimage centres in Pakistan. The temple complex consisting of seven shrines, is located around the Katas lake, considered sacred by pilgrims of multiple faiths. Apart from the temples, the area is renowned for its Buddhist remains and architecture. Pakistan had earlier granted 3,800 visas for Sikh pilgrims visiting Nankana Sahib Gurdwara in Pakistan’s Punjab for the celebration of the 549th birth anniversary of the founder of Sikhism, Guru Nanak. It had also issued 220 visas for the Shadani Darbar temple in Sukkur where a centuries-old festival is continuing. Pakistan also formally inaugurated the project for building the corridor that will allow Sikh pilgrims to visit the holy temple at Kartarpur across the border. The High Commission said Pakistan remains committed to the bilateral understanding of 1974 with India that allows pilgrims to travel freely. Bioplastics may not be a viable alternative to plastic Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Environment and Ecology; Global warming; Climate Change Do you know? Bioplastics — often promoted as a climate-friendly alternative to petroleum-based plastics — may lead to an increase in greenhouse gas emissions, according to a study. It may trigger cropland expansion, which will further increase greenhouse gas emissions. Plastics are usually made from petroleum, with the associated impacts in terms of fossil fuel depletion but also climate change. It is estimated that by 2050, plastics could already be responsible for 15% of the global CO2 emissions. Concerns: Bioplastics, on the other hand, are in principle climate-neutral since they are based on renewable raw materials such as maize, wheat and sugarcane. These plants get the CO2 that they need from the air through their leaves. Producing bioplastics therefore consumes CO2, which compensates for the amount that is later released at end-of-life. Overall, their net greenhouse gas balance is assumed to be zero. Bioplastics are thus often consumed as an environmentally friendly alternative. However, at least with the current level of technology, this issue is probably not as clear as often assumed. The production of bioplastics in large amounts would change land use globally. This could potentially lead to an increase in the conversion of forest areas to arable land. However, forests absorb considerably more CO2 than maize or sugar cane annually, if only because of their larger biomass. (MAINS FOCUS) HEALTH/POLLUTION TOPIC:General studies 2 and 3 Social/Health issue Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment Death in the air: On Air Pollution Introduction: According to Global Burden of Disease 2017 report on the impact of air pollution on deaths, disease burden, and life expectancy across the states of India – Air pollution should be among the highest policy priorities. It killed an estimated 1.24 million people in India in 2017. (Report by Greenpeace India also highlighted the same.) But the Centre and State governments have tended to treat it as a chronic malaise that defies a solution. Another report has pointed out that Delhi and Patna are amongst the worst polluted cities in the world. However, GOI syas that these exercises are good for academic purposes but may not necessarily reflect the truth. It also added that it will depend more on the studies done by Indian institutions. Do you know? Global Burden of Disease 2017 report is published by The Lancet. Over the years, measures are taken to tackle the situation but pollution continues to threaten. Now large number of deaths are attributed to air pollution. GBD Report says - If the country paid greater attention to ambient air quality and household air pollution, the people living in the worst-affected States of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan and Jharkhand could add more than 1.7 years to their life expectancy. Solution: Sustainable solutions must be found for stubble-burning and the use of solid fuels in households, the two major sources of pollution, and State governments must be made accountable for this. The Centre should work with Punjab and Haryana to ensure that the machinery already distributed to farmers and cooperatives to handle agricultural waste is in place and working. A mechanism for rapid collection of farm residues has to be instituted. New approaches to recover value from biomass could be the way forward. A shift away from solid fuels to LPG The proposal from a furniture-maker to convert straw into useful products The potential of domestic biogas units, solar cookers and improved biomass cookstoves has to be explored Strong control over urban sources of pollution Sharp reduction in particulates from fossil fuel Better engineered vehicles Real-time measurement of pollution should be increased Conclusion: Urgent intervention is needed for implementing the National Clean Air Action Plan with a strong compliance strategy to meet the clean air standards in all cities. Real-time air quality monitoring, especially that of PM2.5, will have to be expanded significantly to assess air quality in all cities with sizeable population. India needs massive energy transition across industries and households, mobility transition to public transport, walking and cycling, and effective waste management to control this run-away pollution. If Indian cities are to cut their own air pollution levels, the change and planning has to happen at the city level and state level, instead of depending on the overall climate control goals and programmes set at the union level. There should be a formation of holistic strategy in which Centre and states including UTs should have equitable involvement with same sense of commitment and accountability so that pollution levels are brought down with suggested a road map in place. Rapid progress on clean air also depends on citizens making it a front-line political issue. Connecting the dots: Air pollution should be among the highest policy priorities. Do you agree? What long term solutions are required to address this problem? Discuss. NATIONAL TOPIC:General studies 2 Role of Judiciary Rule of Law; Pending Criminal Cases Constitution, Democracy, Governance and issues related to it Government policies and issues arising Unimplementable orders About: The below article deals with some of the recent Supreme Court verdicts and orders, which seem too tough to be implemented and may remain just on papers Supreme verdict on the entry of women of all ages into the Sabarimala temple. The order fixing timings for bursting of firecrackers during Diwali. Speedy disposal of pending cases against legislators and lawmakers (former and sitting). Witness Protection Scheme of 2018. Among above, this article focuses more on recent orders provided in (3) and (4) Speedy disposal of pending cases against legislators and lawmakers In its verdict on speedy disposal of pending cases against legislators and lawmakers, the court has asked each High Court to designate as many sessions and magistrate courts in the concerned States to try criminal cases against sitting and former MPs and MLAs. The government informed the court that there are 4,122 criminal cases pending against MPs and MLAs in 440 districts across the country. Why the verdict on speedy disposal of criminal cases pending against MPs and MLAs will remain failure or on papers? One, because a case takes time to decide. The cumbersome Code of Criminal Procedure must be followed. Charges must be framed, witnesses must be examined and cross-examined, documents must be adduced in evidence, and arguments must be heard. Only then can a well-considered judgment be delivered. Moreover, the witnesses and even the investigating authorities may turn hostile. Two, overburdened courts. The existing number of courts in India are already overburdened with 33 million pending cases. To implement SC order, means a section of them should give up dealing with the cases before them and only deal with these cases relating to MPs and MLAs. Then their cases will have to be handed over to other judges, who are similarly overburdened. Why Witness Protection Scheme of 2018 will be an unimplementable order? Nowadays it is nearly impossible to get independent witnesses in criminal cases. If someone sees a crime, the tendency is to avoid getting into trouble by deposing about it to the police or the court, which may invite reprisal/retaliation by the party against whom the witness gives evidence. Therefore, the scheme proposes giving witnesses a new identity. There are over 28.4 million cases pending in subordinate courts in India, of which perhaps 70% are criminal cases. If on an average there are half a dozen witnesses in each case, this may require change of identity for millions of people. (which may not be feasible, financially or logistically) The scheme also mentions providing police escort to the courtroom, temporary safe houses and relocation of the witness. However, it is not so simple to relocate an individual whose job requires him to be at a fixed location. For how long and to how many will the police provide protection? Therefore, the above proposals appear unrealistic. Unless orders factor in these considerations, they may go the way of the Doshipura graveyard. Do you know? In 1981, the Supreme Court passed an order directing the shifting of some graves in Doshipura in Varanasi from a Muslim graveyard, but the order is yet to be implemented. Connecting the dots: The Supreme Court order on Witness Protection Scheme of 2018 seems too tough to be implemented and may remain just on papers. Do you agree? The result of never-ending pending cases is a crisis of faith in the legal system. Do you agree? Discuss. (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) The power to grant Indian citizenship lies with the Ministry of Home Affairs Cabinet Secretariat President Prime Minister’s Office Q.2) An Indian citizen can be deprived of the citizenship under which of the following circumstances? The citizen has shown disloyalty to the Constitution of India. The citizen has insulted the national symbols. The citizen has obtained the citizenship by fraud. Select the correct answer using code below 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 1,2 and 3 Q.3) Consider the following statements regarding citizenship in India: Children of Foreign delegates born in India get Indian citizenship. A child born in 2018 outside India will get Indian citizenship automatically by descent if both its parents are Indians. Which of the above statements are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4) Global Burden of Disease 2017 report is published by – World Health Organization United Nations The Lancet Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Q.5) Katas Raj is a pilgrimage site of Hindus. It has a pond which is believed to have been formed by tears of Lord Shiva when he cried at the death of his wife Sati. Where is this located? Pakistan Cambodia Sri Lanka Tibet Q.6) Shadani Darbar temple as in news recently. Where is it located? Uttarakhand Punjab Haryana None of the above MUST READ Delhi and Paris: A tale of two cities The Hindu Tyranny of the majority The Hindu Why aircraft carriers are needed? Indian Express She is the answer Indian Express The new public investors Indian Express Quick fix for the farmer Indian Express Human cost of pollution must drive us to act Livemint Structural reforms for decarbonising India Livemint China and India: Struggling to rebalance Livemint

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2019 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 126]

UPSC Quiz - 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 126] Archives Q.1) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘SPYDER’ It is a surface-to-air missile It is an acquired missile system from Israel It has a strike range of about 15 km in low altitude Select the correct statements 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.2) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Igla-S missile system’ It is Russian man-portable air defence systems (MANPADS) technology It is designed for use against visible aerial targets at short range Select the correct code: 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) Consider the following system with respect to ‘Akash Missile’ It is a medium-range ramjet supersonic cruise missile that can be launched from submarine, ships, aircraft, or land. It is a joint venture between the Russia and India Select the correct code: 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4) ‘INDRA NAVY’ is a bilateral maritime exercise between Indian Navy and Russian Navy French Navy Royal Navy Japanese Navy Q.5) Consider the following statements about Wetland (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017 Salt Pans are identified as wetlands in the 2017 rules It does not include artificial wetlands Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

PIB

Press Information Bureau (PIB) IAS UPSC – 3rd Dec to 8th Dec - 2018

Press Information Bureau (PIB) IAS UPSC – 3rd Dec to 8th Dec - 2018 ARCHIVES GS-2 Government of India and Asian Development Bank Sign $85 Million Loan to Support Odisha Skill Development Project (Topic: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests) The Government of India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed $85 million loan to improve the skill development eco-system in Odisha and establish an advanced skill training center, the World Skill Center (WSC), in the state capital Bhubaneswar. The project will improve the quality of the State’s TVET programs by making them relevant to industry and demand driven, and will impart advanced occupation-ready skills training aligned with international standards. It would also complement the efforts to target the employment needs of the emerging sectors in India and globally The project will engage Institute of Technical Education Services (ITEES), Singapore, to support Odisha Skill Development Authority in setting-up and operationalizing WSC which would offer internationally bench marked advanced training programs for the working age population of Odisha. The project will help over 150,000 people learn skills in priority sectors, including manufacturing, construction and services for formal employment. WSC will deliver eight training courses for 13,000 full-time students, provide training for 5,000 teachers, and train 1,000 assessors. It will improve the overall eco-system of skill development in Odisha by providing integrated services through an entrepreneurship incubation center, a career counseling and placement center, a curriculum design and development center, and education technology deployment center. These important functions of WSC will support a network of Government ITIs and develop skills and capacity of polytechnics, college of engineering, and other private skilling centers. ADB will also administer a $2 million technical assistance grant from the Japan Fund for Poverty Reduction, financed by the Government of Japan that will support capacity development activities under the project Cabinet approves MoC between India and Japan in the field of Environmental Cooperation: Enable establishment and promotion of closer and long-term cooperation between India and Japan in the field of environment protection and management of natural resources on the basis of equity, reciprocity and mutual benefits, taking into account the applicable laws and legal provisions in each country. Further, the MoC entails exchange of information and technology between the two countries. Revised Model MoU between India and foreign Financial Intelligence Units (FIUs) for exchange of information: The core functions of FIU-IND in relation to foreign FIUs include screening and processing requests from foreign Financial Intelligence Units (FIUs), disseminating information to foreign FIUs, establishing and maintaining relationship with foreign FIUs, and facilitating, administering and negotiating MoUs with foreign FIUs. MoU between India and the USA concerning Scientific and Technical Cooperation in the Earth Sciences: Enable sharing of the expertise available with organizations in both countries, and adoption of the latest state-of-the-art technology in the field of Earth Science. Specific areas of cooperation include ecosystems, climate variability and land-use changes, energy, minerals, environmental health, natural hazards, risk and resilience of assessments, water resources, and informatics and data integration. MoU between India and France in the field of energy efficiency / energy conservation: The MoU will lead to awareness creation on energy efficiency. Development of tools for collection, use and analysis of CO2 emissions and GHG data for tracking global emissions for INDC. It will promote Research and Development, and demonstration of energy efficient technologies. Development of sustainable mobility with specific focus on electric transport. Agriculture Export Policy, 2018: The Government has come out with a policy to double farmers’ income by 2022. Exports of agricultural products would play a pivotal role in achieving this goal. In order to provide an impetus to agricultural exports, the Government has come out with a comprehensive “Agriculture Export Policy” aimed at doubling the agricultural exports and integrating Indian farmers and agricultural products with the global value chains. The Agriculture Export Policy has the following vision:          “Harness export potential of Indian agriculture, through suitable policy   instruments, to make India global power in agriculture and raise farmers’ income.” Objectives: To double agricultural exports from present ~US$ 30+ Billion to ~US$ 60+ Billion by 2022 and reach US$ 100 Billion in the next few years thereafter, with a stable trade policy regime. To diversify our 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 phyto-sanitary 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. MoU between India and Tajkistan on Cooperation on Peaceful uses of Space Technology for Development: The MoU would lead to development of joint activity in the field of application of space technologies for the benefit of humanity. It will lead to setting up of a Joint Working Group, which will further work out the plan of action including the time-frame and the means of implementing the provisions of this Agreement. MoU between India and Russia on Joint Activities under Human Spaceflight Programme: Will strengthen the cooperation between India and Russia and would provide impetus to develop the technologies and advanced systems required for the human space flight programme like radiation shielding, life support systems, crew module, rendezvous and docking systems, space suit, training for astronauts etc. MoU between India and Zimbabwe for cooperation in the field of geology, mining and mineral resources: The objectives of the MoU are, exchange of information on resources, laws and policy, organization of seminars to exchange views on development strategies, encouragement of transfer of technologies between the Parties, promotion of value addition and opportunities for investment in the mining sector. These provisions, will enable taking up of activities like documentation, dissemination and would serve the objective of innovation. Agreement between India and Uzbekistan on Cooperation in the exploration and uses of Outer Space for peaceful purposes: Will strengthen the cooperation between India and Uzbekistan and would provide impetus to explore newer research activities and application possibilities in the field of remote sensing of the earth; satellite communication; satellite navigation; space science and exploration of outer space. MoU between India and Morocco for Cooperation in the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space: This MoU shall enable the following potential interest areas of cooperation     such as, space science, technology and applications including remote sensing of the earth; satellite communication and satellite-based navigation; Space science and planetary exploration; use of spacecraft and space systems and ground system; and application of space technology; and The MoU would lead to set up a Joint Working Group, drawing members from DOS/ISRO and Royal Centre for Remote Sensing (CRTS) and the Royal Centre for Space Research and Studies (CRERS), which will further work out the plan of action including the time-frame and the means of implementing the MoU. Agreement between India and Algeria on Cooperation in the field of Space Sciences, Technologies and Applications: This Agreement shall enable pursuing the following potential interest areas of cooperation such as, space science, technology and applications including remote sensing of the earth; satellite communication and satellite-based navigation; Space science and planetary exploration; gse of spacecraft and space systems and ground system; and application of space technology. The Agreement would lead to set up a Joint Working Group, drawing members from DOS/ISRQ, and the Algerian Space Agency (ASAL), which will further work out the plan of action including the time-frame and the means of implementing this Agreement. Memorandum of Cooperation between India and Japan in the field of Healthcare and Wellness: Promoting specific projects: Developing human resource in the field of acute medicine, surgery and trauma  care including focus on new areas of competency in each field; Establishing an advanced joint testing laboratory for clinical examination; Establishing a Japanese language education centre for trainee candidates of care workers; Establishing collaborations among tertiary care centres in both countries such as AUMS; and Supporting sending organisations to provide pre-lectures about elderly care for technical intern training programmes of care workers through sending out certificated care workers from Japan and providing a curriculum and textbooks so as to provide trained care-givers to Japan. (b)      Development of infrastructure: Establishing a centralised management healthcare distribution centre; Improving sanitary environment by increasing access to hygienic and affordable toilets such as on-site processing one; Promoting institutional collaboration on patient data analysis and Information   and Communication Technology & Artificial Intelligence in medicine; India-Japan Innovation Hub in India; Establishing high end mobile BSL 3 Lab facilities in India; and Collaboration on getting high end medical devices including Point of Care Diagnostics with a special focus on establishing manufacturing units in India under "Make in India". (c)      Human development: Developing human resource, research and project promotion for health self-management such as ME-BYO and Ayurveda; and Holding an India-Japan public and private healthcare forum. (d) Any other areas as may be mutually decided upon to promote the synergies between AYUSHMAN Bharat Programme and other initiatives and AHWM GS-3 Distribution of Soil Health Cards (SHC) for optimal utilization of fertilizers (Topic: e-technology in the aid of farmers) Soil Health Card Scheme has been taken up for the first time in a comprehensive manner across the country. Under the scheme soil health cards are provided to all farmers so as to enable the farmers to apply appropriate recommended dosages of nutrients for crop production and improving soil health and its fertility. The unique features of SHC scheme are: - Collecting soil samples at a grid of 2.5 ha in irrigated area and 10 ha in un-irrigated areas. Uniform approach in soil testing adopted for 12 parameters viz. primary nutrients (NPK); secondary nutrient (S); micronutrients (B,Zn, Mn. Fe & Cu); and other (pH, EC & OC) for comprehensiveness. GPS enabled soil sampling to create a systematic database and allow monitoring of changes in the soil health over the years. Must Read: Link Solve: Examine the economic implications of soil erosion in India. Also discuss the ways that can address soil erosion. Cabinet approves National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS) (Topic: Science and Technology) Implementation by: Department of Science &Technology The Mission addresses the ever increasing technological requirements of the society, and takes into account the international trends and road maps of leading countries for the next generation technologies. The mission implementation would develop and bring: Cyber Physical Systems (CPS) and associated technologies within reach in the country, Adoption of CPS technologies to address India specific National / Regional issues, Produce Next Generation skilled manpower in CPS, Catalyse Translational Research, Accelerate entrepreneurship and start-up ecosystem development in CPS, Give impetus to advanced research in CPS, Technology development and higher education in Science, Technology and Engineering disciplines, and Place India at par with other advanced countries and derive several direct and indirect benefits Implementation strategy: The NM-ICPS is a comprehensive Mission which would address technology development, application development, human resource development & skill enhancement, entrepreneurship and start-up development in CPS and associated technologies. The Mission aims at establishment of 15 numbers of Technology Innovation Hubs (TIH), six numbers of Application Innovation Hubs (AIH) and four numbers of Technology Translation Research Parks (TTRP). These Hubs & TTRPs will connect to Academics, Industry, Central Ministries and State Government in developing solutions at reputed academic, R&D and other organizations across the country in a hub and spoke model. The Hubs & TTRPs have four focused areas along which the Mission implementation would proceed, namely (i) Technology Development; (ii) HRD & Skill Development; (iii) Innovation, Entrepreneurship & Start-ups Ecosystem Development; (iv) International Collaborations. Prelims oriented News Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2016 report that showed that Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) and injuries were the main cause of death among people of all age groups in India. Shahpurkandi Dam Project: In Punjab on river Ravi Skoch Award for National Significance: Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Government of India The award has been conferred on the Ministry considering its purpose and critical role played in installing about 73 GW renewable energy capacity in the country. With 21 per cent of total installed capacity, within the year renewable energy grossed a magic figure of providing one billion units of electricity in the country. Today, India ranks 4 in the world in wind energy capacity and 5th in solar & total renewable energy capacity installed in the world. India has played a critical role in setting up of international solar alliance. Food and Agriculture organisation (FAO) Council approves India’s proposal to observe an International Year of Millets in 2023: Will enhance global awareness to bring back these nutri-cereals to the plate, for food and nutrition security and hence increase production for resilience to challenges posed globally by climate change. Millets consists of Jowar, Bajra, Ragi and minor millets together termed as nutri-cereals. This is further supported by increase in Minimum Support Prices (MSP) of millets. In addition, the FAO Council also approved India’s membership to the Executive Board of the United Nations World Food Program (WFP) for 2020 and 2021. FAO: A specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. A source of knowledge and information, and helps developing countries in transition modernize and improve agriculture, forestry and fisheries practices, ensuring good nutrition and food security for all. Environment Technology Verification (ETV) process allows companies to showcase the success and efficacy of their solutions through a pilot demonstration project. The Government is inviting technology solution providers to apply for the ETV programme in the areas of decentralised waste water and industrial effluent treatment, data and information and ancillary services such as solid waste management, sustainable agriculture and hydropower. National Commission for Women to support livelihood programmes in Northeast: National Commission for Women (NCW) will support Northeast livelihood programmes for women, particularly for those in younger age group, through Skill development and Specialized training, which can enable them to earn their living and also empower them as individuals. Even though the women in Northeast, by and large, are quite emancipated as far as their contribution in outdoor work is concerned, but there was a huge scope for raising the levels of education among the women living in remote and rural areas, and also to impart skill training to make them self - reliant. It can supplement its efforts and resources in carrying forward several of the women-oriented projects which are already undertaken by the Ministry of Development of North-eastern Region and the NEC. Successful launch of GSAT-11 Heaviest, largest and most-advanced high throughput communication satellite of India. GSAT-11 is part of ISRO’s new family of high-throughput communication satellite (HTS) fleet that will drive the country’s Internet broadband from space to untouched areas; the broadband domain is now ruled by underground fibre and covers partial and convenient locations. Pic: https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2018/12/04/DEL/Delhi/TH/5_07/47720869_2571067_101_mr.jpg Air Connectivity under UDAAN Scheme Scheme: Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik (UDAN) An innovative scheme to develop the regional aviation market. It is a market-based mechanism in which airlines bid for seat subsidies. This first-of-its-kind scheme globally will create affordable yet economically viable and profitable flights on regional routes so that flying becomes affordable to the common man even in small towns. Mindmap Solve: Critically examine the significance of regional connectivity for a developing economy like India. Also discuss the features of the UDAN scheme launched by the government. Amendments in Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989: All new vehicles will be sold pre-fitted with High Security Registration Plates – HSRP from the 1st of April next year. This step is likely to improve the coverage of HSRP on vehicles, while ensuring its quality by the vehicle manufacturers. The HSRP helps in keeping track of the vehicle, and makes it easier to trace a lost or stolen vehicle. Person in News: Dr Rajendra Prasad: The first President of India, in office from 1952 to 1962 A supporter of Mahatma Gandhi, Prasad was imprisoned by British authorities during the Salt Satyagraha of 1931 and the Quit India movement of 1942. Shri R. Venkataraman An Indian lawyer, Indian independence activist and politician who served as a Union Minister and as the eighth President of India In 1984, he was elected as the seventh Vice President of India and in 1987, he became the 8th President of India and served from 1987 to 1992. Had participated in Quit India Movement Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Mahaparinirvan Diwas: Death Anniversary of Ambedkar Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar (14 April 1891 – 6 December 1956), popularly known as Babasaheb Ambedkar, was an Indian jurist, economist, politician and social reformer who inspired the Dalit Buddhist movement and campaigned against social discrimination towards the untouchables (Dalits), while also supporting the rights of women and labour. He was independent India's first law and justice minister, the principal architect of the Constitution of India, and a founding father of the Republic of India. His autobiography: Waiting for a Visa His books: Annihilation of Caste – It strongly criticised Hindu orthodox religious leaders and the caste system in general, and included "a rebuke of Gandhi" on the subject. Who Were the Shudras? – Ambedkar tried to explain the formation of untouchables. He saw Shudras and Ati Shudras who form the lowest caste in the ritual hierarchy of the caste system, as separate from Untouchables. Reserve Bank of India Ambedkar was trained as an economist, and was a professional economist until 1921, when he became a political leader. He wrote three scholarly books on economics: Administration and Finance of the East India Company The Evolution of Provincial Finance in British India The Problem of the Rupee: Its Origin and Its Solution[98][99] The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), was based on the ideas that Ambedkar presented to the Hilton Young Commission. Ambedkar and Untouchability While practising law in the Bombay High Court, he tried to promote education to untouchables and uplift them. His first organised attempt was his establishment of the central institution Bahishkrit Hitakarini Sabha, intended to promote education and socio-economic improvement, as well as the welfare of "outcastes", at the time referred to as depressed classes. For the defence of Dalit rights, he started five periodicals – Mooknayak (the leader of the dumb, 1920) Bahishkrit Bharat (Ostracized India, 1924) Samta (Equality, 1928) Janata (The People, 1930) Prabuddha Bharat (Enlightened India, 1956) Manusmriti Dahan Din: In a conference in late 1927, Ambedkar publicly condemned the classic Hindu text, the Manusmriti (Laws of Manu), for ideologically justifying caste discrimination and "untouchability", and he ceremonially burned copies of the ancient text. On 25 December 1927, he led thousands of followers to burn copies of Manusmrti. Thus, annually 25 December is celebrated as Manusmriti Dahan Din (Manusmriti Burning Day) by Ambedkarites and Dalits. Kalaram Temple movement: About 15,000 volunteers assembled at Kalaram Temple satygraha making one of the greatest processions of Nashik. The procession was headed by a military band, a batch of scouts, women and men walked in discipline, order and determination to see the god for the first time. When they reached to gate, the gates were closed by Brahmin authorities. Poona Pact: In 1932, British announced the formation of a separate electorate for "Depressed Classes" in the Communal Award. Gandhi fiercely opposed a separate electorate for untouchables, saying he feared that such an arrangement would divide the Hindu community. Gandhi protested by fasting while imprisoned in the Yerwada Central Jail of Poona. Following the fast, Congress politicians and activists such as Madan Mohan Malaviya and Palwankar Baloo organised joint meetings with Ambedkar and his supporters at Yerwada. On 25 September 1932, the agreement known as Poona Pact was signed between Ambedkar (on behalf of the depressed classes among Hindus) and Madan Mohan Malaviya (on behalf of the other Hindus). The agreement gave reserved seats for the depressed classes in the Provisional legislatures, within the general electorate. Due to the pact, the depressed class received 148 seats in the legislature, instead of the 71 as allocated in the Communal Award earlier proposed by British Prime Minister Ramsay MacDonald. The text uses the term "Depressed Classes" to denote Untouchables among Hindus who were later called Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes under India Act 1935, and the later Indian Constitution of 1950. In the Poona Pact, a unified electorate was in principle formed, but primary and secondary elections allowed Untouchables in practice to choose their own candidates. Must Read: Link 1 + Link 2 + Link 3 + Link 4 Solve: “In our country, democracy is not a natural sentiment that people are born with. It is an idea that has to be cultivated in an essentially unequal society.” This statement by Dr. B R Ambedkar resonates as much with the India of present as it did with India of 70 years back. Critically comment. Quotes: Vice President of India, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu On Person with Disabilities (Divyangjan) People with special needs require empathy and not sympathy. There is a need to change societal norms through intensive awareness campaigns to remove the stigma attached to disability. Society has a duty towards fellow human beings to make them lead good quality lives with dignity. One must learn to recognize the valuable human assets we have in persons with disabilities. Calling upon the people to rededicate to the cause of less fortunate, he stressed the need to provide appropriate career and life-enhancing policies and measures to boost their self-confidence so that the people with special needs can lead a dignified life. Legislations such as the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 focuses on various key elements of empowerment of persons with disabilities. It provides for promoting inclusive education, skill development, healthcare, social security, rehabilitation, recreation and sporting activities among persons with disabilities. Early identification of disability and effective interventions were important in providing care to those in need. He stressed the need to harmonize the immunization and disease-prevention programmes with appropriate rehabilitation models and added that children in the susceptible age groups should be given access to better health care and nutrition to prevent occurrence of disability. Empowerment of every person including persons with disabilities. Provisions of the Act have to be strictly implemented to ensure that children with disabilities have access to school education with proper pedagogical support. Our education system has to be re-invented to create inclusive educational opportunities and we have to use technology creatively to make this possible. Policy makers and planners must be aware of the infrastructural requirements of persons with special needs and create accessible environment. Increasing access to public facilities must be priority area given the size of the existing infrastructure and added that such gigantic task requires support of all stakeholders for developing barrier-free environment for the Persons with Disabilities be it in the physical infrastructure, transportation sector or the ICT ecosystem. On Optimal Utilization of Demographic Dividend in India India has an advantage of Demographic Dividend like no other country in the World has today with over 60% percent of its youth in the working age group at present. In the near future, most of the sectors of Indian economy would require more skilled workforce than the present. It would be both a challenge and an opportunity for India to provide its workforce with required skill sets and knowledge to enable them to contribute substantially to its economic growth. Union Environment Minister Dr. Harsh Vardhan – Indian Pavilion at COP-24 India has made great strides in its journey towards climate change adaptation and mitigation. This year the theme of India Pavilion is ‘One World One Sun One Grid’. We have set an ambitious   target that 40 per cent of its installed power capacity will be from non-fossil fuels by 2030. We   have launched many policies and set up institutional mechanisms to advance our climate actions. These initiatives are a reflection of our commitment towards addressing climate change concern including energy security, food and water security, capacity enhancement at national and state level. A nationwide   campaign in preserving and protecting the environment called the Green   Good Deeds Movement. We realized that people’s participation is crucial to accomplish our goal and so this campaign was prepared to inspire, encourage and involve each and every individual of our society. The attempt is to ensure that each and every citizen must adopt measures to protect the environment by doing small but significant green good deed such as save energy, save water, car-pool to work, use dustbins for disposal of waste, segregate waste, plant trees, and so on and so forth. India is working hard for achieving 175 GW targets for installed Renewable Energy capacity by 2022. The effect of increased use of renewable energy is now visible in India.  Resultantly, India stands 4th in wind power 5th in renewable power and 5th in solar power installed. Besides solar and wind power, we are also working on biomass, biofuel and bio-energy. Our   aim will always be to leap ahead into the future of energy solutions that make this world a cleaner and greener place. Till date more than 310 million LEDs have been installed countrywide. Around 58 million    households are already covered under Ujjwala scheme. Ujjwala scheme will not only contribute to improved health of women and children, but also help on reducing forest degradation. Just in last 2 years India achieved 1% increase in its forest cover whereas in many countries   across the globe, it is depleting. More   than 0.26 million Electric Vehicles have been sold, with more than 91 million CO2 Reduction (in kg).   Apart from this, we have also pledged to get rid of single-use plastic by 2022 across the country. Essay Topics: Self-regulation is a better approach for regulation of Media & Entertainment sector India’s prowess in agriculture diplomacy

Motivational Articles

Creative Guidance – Belief Vs Effort – Inspirational Educative Articles

Belief Vs Effort: A lot of times we have heard people talk about how one should believe in their dreams to be able to realize them. Belief is put on a pedestal much above all other qualities necessary for success. “Believe in Yourself” is a common mantra prescribed by many, but how much of this “Believe in yourself” jazz is real and how much of it is just another way of saying, just keep at it. It takes a lot more than belief even to ride a bicycle. It takes knowledge, method and right approach to learn how to ride a bicycle. More importantly it takes effort and perseverance. If you actually think about it, it takes quite a bit of courage to ride a bicycle for the first time. You have to risk something to be able to learn how to ride a bicycle. Belief is just a starting point; it is not the end of the process. This is where a lot of people live in blind belief. Just because they can believe, they believe that they can do anything. Very few reflect on the sheer amount of effort it takes to try and achieve something very few have. We tend to forget that the greater the dream, the more effort and sacrifice it takes to get there. At the end of the day, success in anything is very simple. Success is deferred gratification. If you can put aside all your momentary pleasures and work towards something, the rewards of which are somewhere very far in the future, then you will be giving yourself the best possible chance of succeeding. Belief is necessary, but then it is not very different from let’s say time. We all know that it takes time to accomplish something, but there is very little we can do about time. Time is a constant, everybody has just about the same amount of it, so it is simply out of the equation. Belief is not very different from this. In the first place if you don’t believe that you can accomplish something, you will not even be trying. If you don’t even believe that you can ride a bicycle, then why would you try riding one? The very fact that you are making an attempt means that you believe that you can do it. In this sense everybody who is attempting to accomplish something believes that he/she can do it. There is absolutely nothing great about your belief. It is a neutral quality given equally to all who are trying. You would not get any special benefits out of believing. You cannot increase your chances of success just by believing a little more. Belief is a basic necessity it is not a differentiator. The key differentiator is effort. The sheer amount of effort you are willing to put in makes all the difference. How many of your worldly pleasures are you willing to sacrifice? How many of your daily impulses are you willing to control and direct towards a higher goal is all that matters. One pointed focus and effort in the right direction is what makes a difference, not just believing that you can do it. You can believe all you want, if you don’t know how to swim, you will drown. “This article is a part of the creative endeavor of Inner Revolution and IASBABA.”

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

Daily Current Affairs [IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam] – 8th December 2018

Daily Current Affairs [IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam] – 8th December 2018 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Person in news: Krishnamurthy Subramanian Why in news? New chief economic adviser Krishnamurthy Subramanian replaces Arvind Subramanian. Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has cleared the appointment of Krishnamurthy Subramanian as the Chief Economic Adviser for three years. The CEA in the finance ministry is a key contributor to the government’s overall strategy in managing the economy and offers a critique of the hits and misses through the economic survey. About CEA The Chief Economic Adviser (CEA) is the economic advisor to the Government of India. The CEA is the ex-officio cadre controlling authority of the Indian Economic Service. The CEA is under the direct charge of the Minister of Finance. CEA enjoys rank and pay equivalent to that of a Secretary to Government of India. The CEA heads the Economic Division under the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA). NSCN(K) faction asks Centre to revive ceasefire Part of: GS Mains III – Internal Security and Security issues In news: A breakaway faction of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (Khaplang), led by Khango Konyak asks Centre to revive ceasefire. Recently NSCN(IM) cadre was killed – A hardcore cadre of the Nationalist Socialist Council of Nagaland (Issac-Muivah) was killed in an encounter with security forces in Arunachal Pradesh. About National Socialist Council of Nagaland NSCN is a Greater Naga Revolutionist, Christian Naga nationalist insurgent group operating mainly in Northeast India, with minor activities in northwest Myanmar until 2012. The main goal of the organisation is to establish a sovereign Naga state, "Nagalim", which would consist of all the areas inhabited by the Naga people in Northeast India and Northwest Myanmar. According to the NSCN manifesto, their slogan is "Nagaland for Christ". The group is accused of kidnapping, assassination, forced conversion and committing terrorist activities. Do you know? Two major factions of NSCN include NSCN (K), led by Khaplang; and NSCN (I-M), led by Isak Chishi Swu and Thuingaleng Muviah. On November 6, 2015 in response to an attack on an army convoy in Manipur India designated The NSCN (K) a terrorist organization under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. India's Ministry of Home Affairs labeled NSCN a major insurgent group. Are GM crops a failure? Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Agriculture; Environment and Biodiversity; Science and Technology In news: According to a research paper co-authored by leading agriculture scientist M.S. Swaminathan – GM crops are considered to be a failure. GM crops such as Bt cotton, the stalled Bt brinjal as well as DMH-11, a transgenic mustard hybrid – has failed as a sustainable agriculture technology and has, therefore, also failed to provide livelihood security for cotton farmers who are mainly resource-poor, small and marginal farmers. It raised questions on the genetic engineering technology itself on the grounds that it raises the cost of sowing. Prof. Swaminathan, credited with leading India’s Green Revolution, has in recent years advocated ‘sustainable agriculture’ and said the government should only use genetic engineering as a last resort. Swaminathan emphasised that genetic engineering technology is supplementary and must be needbased. Only in very rare circumstance (less than 1%) may there arise a need for the use of this technology. However, the research paper – ‘Modern Technologies for Sustainable Food and Nutrition Security’ – was criticised by India’s Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA), K. VijayRaghavan as ‘deeply flawed’. Pic: https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2018/12/08/DEL/Delhi/TH/5_05/9728cd03_2579296_101_mr.jpg Sri Brihadeeswarar temple, Thanjavur Part of: GS Prelims and Mains I – Art and architecture; Conservation of Heritage and Monuments In news: HC stays Art of Living event at Sri Brihadeeswarar temple in Thanjavur, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The iconic Great temple was over 1,000 years old and by allowing private parties to put up temporary structures within its premises, the authorities were showing no regard for heritage. About Sri Brihadeeswarar temple It is a Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva located in Thanjavur in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is also known as Periya Kovil (Great Temple), RajaRajeswara Temple and Rajarajeswaram. It is one of the largest temples in India and is an example of Dravidian architecture during the Chola period. Built by emperor Raja Raja Chola I and completed in 1010 AD, the temple turned 1000 years old in 2010. The temple is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the “Great Living Chola Temples”, with the other two being the Brihadeeswarar Temple, Gangaikonda Cholapuram and Airavatesvara temple. (MAINS FOCUS) NATIONAL TOPIC:General studies 3 and Essay Role of media and social networking sites in internal security challenges Challenges to internal security through communication networks Essay Is social media polarising society? Introduction Due to advancement in information and technology, there has been rapid growth in social media platforms such as facebook, twitter, whatsapp etc. This becomes extremely important for India because India has now became the second most populated country in terms of access to internet. Access to internet helps in gathering information, express personal views on various social media sites, mass mobilisation of current issues (Arab Spring) increases engagement with the government. However, the social media is also used to spread fake news which further increases hatred among communities. This rapid growth of social media has proved to be very controversial because of which there is an ongoing debate; whether the social media is a boon or bane? ROLE OF SOCIAL MEDIA AS A POLARISING AGENT Ideal Purpose of Social Media To promote 3Ds: discussion, debate and dissent among members of societies. It helps in making an informed society. It should help in reducing inherent bias among people on various issues. It should make people more receptive to others' viewpoints, beliefs and opinions. Thus, effectively it should promote harmony, brotherhood and tolerance in the society. What has social media done? Rather than achieving the above mentioned goals, social media has hardened people’s belief’s views and opinion and has made people more conservative in their outlook. This process of moulding people’s opinion has been achieved by social media through a concept known as “Echo chamber Phenomena”. Social Media uses algorithms where; it suggests whom to follow, posts and comments consistent with our views and Filter news based on views and opinions. These algorithms when used repeatedly by social media companies creates a cyclical rhythm of views which when bombarded regularly, helps in creating an effect similar to echo of a sound. This “Echo chamber Phenomena” has been used by various agencies to fulfill their interest which has further helped in hardening of people’s beliefs, views and opinions. Apart from this, the social media also impacts the individual behaviour which could be understood by Asch conformity experiment. Dou you know? Asch Conformity Experiment As per the Asch Conformity Experiment people gave wrong answers (knowingly) to confirm their alignment with the majority because according to them the majority viewpoint is correct. This phenomenon of confirming with majority has helped in increasing acceptance of fake news to be as true. SOCIAL MEDIA AS AN ENABLER Inclusive and participative tool of governance Social media is inclusive, participative and Disruptive in a positive way. Inclusive: as it provides equal opportunity to all without discrimination or bias. It provides for a inclusive framework for all the people to to express their viewpoints and opinions. Participative: It promotes good governance in India, because it enables the government to engage with its citizens. At the same time it enables the citizens to put forward their concerns before the government. Thus it leads to strengthening of Democracy in India. Disruptive: The social media has also been used for mass mobilisation campaigns, for example, during the Arab Spring, #MeToo campaign and disaster management. Social media if used effectively, can further good governance initiatives of the government through people’s participation. Tool of persuasion Aristotle gave three modes of persuasion: Ethos(Credibility), Pathos(emotional appeal) and Logos(logic). People believe credible person or medium or they would believe if theres an emotional appeal or they will believe if there is logic and rationality in an argument. Thus, ability to persuade people depends on these three factors, and social media can play utmost a persuasive tool. It is wrong to blame the mushrooming growth of social media as it is the people who feed information as per their beliefs and opinion. Conclusion Improper use of social media has dented our secular fabric. It is now our duty to use social media in responsible manner. In order to make social media more effective, it’s the people who must understand their responsibility towards society rather than believing and spreading fake news which can cause hatred and promote divisiveness in the society. And on part of government; it should enact laws for data privacy and protection so that no other Cambridge Analytica will ever happen. Connecting the dots: Write an Essay; "Social media: An Enabler or Polarizer". NATIONAL TOPIC:General studies 2 Governance; government policies and interventions Justice delivery system in India Shielding witnesses: on protection scheme Introduction The Supreme Court of India has ordered all states and union territories to implement the Draft Witness Protection Scheme, 2018 framed by the Centre in consultation with the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA). The scheme intends to protect witnesses in criminal trials from threat, intimidation and undue influence.  Witnesses turning hostile are a major reason for most acquittals in criminal cases. In the present system, there is little incentive for witnesses to turn up in court and testify against criminals. Threats to their lives, hostility and harassment while attending courts makes extremely difficult for the witness to give evidence in Court of law.   Moreover, the need to protect witnesses has been emphasised by Law Commission reports and court judgments for years.  About Scheme It broadly classifies witnesses in need of protection into three types based on the threat assessment. A witness protection order will be passed by a competent authority. The scheme is to be funded by budgetary support from State governments and donations. This is at variance with the Law Commission’s recommendation in 2006 that the Centre and the States share the cost equally. Basic Features & Challenges The Basic features such as in camera trial, proximate physical protection and removing identity details of testimony and references to witnesses in the records can be easily implemented. However, advanced forms of identity protection: giving witnesses a new identity, address and even ‘parentage’, with matching documents will be the real challenge in terms of witness protection. The implementation of the Witness Protection Scheme will face logistical and financial challenge which both the Centre and states need to fix together. Aims and Objectives of Draft Witness Protection Scheme, 2018 The ability of a witness to give testimony in a judicial setting or to cooperate with law enforcement and investigations without fear of intimidation or reprisal is essential in maintaining the rule of law. The objective of this Scheme is to ensure that the investigation, prosecution and trial of criminal offences is not prejudiced because witnesses are intimidated or frightened to give evidence without protection from violent or other criminal recrimination. It aims to promote law enforcement by facilitating the protection of persons who are involved directly or indirectly in providing assistance to criminal law enforcement agencies and overall administration of Justice. Witnesses need to be given the confidence to come forward to assist law enforcement and Judicial Authorities with full assurance of safety. It is aimed to identify series of measures that may be adopted to safeguard witnesses and their family members from intimidation and threats against their lives, reputation and property. As such witnesses should be entitled to the following rights: Right to give evidence anonymously Right to protection from intimidation and harm Right to be treated with dignity and compassion and respect of privacy Right to information of the status of the investigation and prosecution of the crime. Right to secure waiting place while at Court proceedings Right to transportation and lodging arrangements. Steps taken to protect witnesses and way forward There have been ad hoc steps such as those outlined for concealing the identity of witnesses in anti-terrorism and child-centric laws. A few dedicated courtrooms for vulnerable witnesses, mostly child victims, are also functional. However, expanding such facilities and implementing a comprehensive and credible witness protection programme will pose logistical and financial challenges. It will be well worth the effort, as the scheme could help strengthen India’s tottering criminal justice system. Connecting the dots: A robust witness protection scheme will strengthen the criminal justice system. 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) Consider the following statements about Brihadeeswarar Temple: The great temple of Brihadeeswarar Temple is dedicated to the Lord Vishnu. It was built by Rajaraja Chola’s son Rajendra I. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q 2) With regard to Gangaikonda Cholapuram consider the following statements: The city was founded by Rajendra Chola I to commemorate his victory over the Pala Dynasty. The great temple of Brihadeeswarar Temple at this place is dedicated to the Lord Vishnu. Which of the above statements is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 None Q 3) Which of the following organization is responsible for the preparation of economic survey in India? Department of revenue Department of economic affairs Department of revenue Department of financial services MUST READ An invitation to corruption? The Hindu End this long trauma The Hindu Corridor of comfort Indian Express A higher exclusion Indian Express No return to ’80s Indian Express A shot in the arm Indian Express

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All India Radio (AIR) IAS UPSC - Initiatives in Textile Sector

Initiatives in Textile Sector ARCHIVES Search 22nd October, 2018 Spotlight here: http://www.newsonair.com/Audio-Archive-Search.aspx TOPIC: General Studies 3 Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment. Inclusive growth and issues arising from it India’s textiles sector is one of the oldest industries in Indian economy dating back several centuries. India's overall textile exports during FY 2017-18 stood at US$ 39.2 billion. The Indian textiles industry is extremely varied, with the hand-spun and hand-woven textiles sectors at one end of the spectrum, while the capital intensive sophisticated mills sector at the other end of the spectrum. The decentralised power looms/ hosiery and knitting sector form the largest component of the textiles sector. The close linkage of the textile industry to agriculture (for raw materials such as cotton) and the ancient culture and traditions of the country in terms of textiles make the Indian textiles sector unique in comparison to the industries of other countries. Target to double textile production by 2025 The Textile Ministry is targeting to double textile production and trade to $300 billion by 2025. With the domestic production of textiles at $110 billion and exports and trade at $40 billion, the country’s production of textiles at present is worth $150 billion. To reach the target, the productivity and yield levels of both cotton fibre and synthetic will be stepped up. India & Textiles Refer: https://www.ibef.org/industry/textiles.aspx Market Size The Indian textiles industry, currently estimated at around US$ 150 billion, is expected to reach US$ 250 billion by 2019. India’s textiles industry contributed seven per cent of the industry output (in value terms) of India in 2017-18.It contributed two per cent to the GDP of India and employs more than 45 million people in 2017-18.The sector contributed 15 per cent to the export earnings of India in 2017-18. The production of raw cotton in India is estimated to have reached 34.9 million bales in FY18^. Investment The textiles sector has witnessed a spurt in investment during the last five years. The industry (including dyed and printed) attracted Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) worth US$ 2.97 billion during April 2000 to June 2018. Some of the major investments in the Indian textiles industry are as follows: The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), Government of India has approved a new skill development scheme named 'Scheme for Capacity Building in Textile Sector (SCBTS)' with an outlay of Rs 1,300 crore (US$ 202.9 million) from 2017-18 to 2019-20. In May 2018, textiles sector recorded investments worth Rs 27,000 crore (US$ 4.19 billion) since June 2017. Government Initiatives The Indian government has come up with a number of export promotion policies for the textiles sector. It has also allowed 100 per cent FDI in the Indian textiles sector under the automatic route. The Textile Ministry of India earmarked Rs 690 crore (US$ 106.58 million) for setting up 21 readymade garment manufacturing units in seven states for development and modernisation of Indian Textile Sector. The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has revised rates for incentives under the Merchandise Exports from India Scheme (MEIS) for two subsectors of Textiles Industry - Readymade garments and Made ups - from 2 per cent to 4 per cent. As of August 2018, the Government of India has increased the basic custom duty to 20 per cent from 10 per cent on 501 textile products, to boost Make in India and indigenous production. The Government of India announced a Special Package to boost exports by US$ 31 billion, create one crore job opportunity and attract investments worth Rs 80,000 crore (US$ 11.93 billion) during 2018-2020. As of August 2018 it generated additional investments worth Rs 25,345 crore (US$ 3.78 billion) and exports worth Rs 57.28 billion (US$ 854.42 million). The Government of India has taken several measures including Amended Technology Up-gradation Fund Scheme (A-TUFS), scheme is estimated to create employment for 35 lakh people and enable investments worth Rs 95,000 crore (US$ 14.17 billion) by 2022. Setting up integrated textile parks: To assist small and medium entrepreneurs in the textile industry to clusterize investments in textile parks by providing financial support for world class infrastructure in the parks. Handlooms may be promoted with a focus on developing high-end niche products by linking it with contemporary fashion. Further, e-marketing initiatives will be pursued in order to cut down intermediaries and increase wage earnings of weavers. This would make handlooms attractive to younger generations as well. Promotion of handicrafts and handloom villages will be linked up with tourism, and traditional handloom weaver/handicraft artisan villages will be promoted as tourist destinations. Scheme for Capacity Building in Textile Sector: In order to ensure steady supply of skilled manpower in the labour-intensive textile sector, the Union Cabinet approved a Rs 1,300-crore outlay for skilling and up-skilling an estimated 10 lakh people in the entire value chain of the sector, including spinning and weaving. The scheme will provide demand-driven, placement-oriented skilling programme to incentivise the efforts of the industry in creating jobs in the organised textile and related sectors. Challenges and Way Forward First, yarn now attracts 5% GST and the machinery to manufacture yarn attracts 18%. This is uneven. Yarn manufacturers will be left with a huge input credit which they won’t be able to utilise. There is no provision under GST to get such accumulated credit as refund for capital goods. This will contribute to dead investment for the textile industry over several years. Secondly, a foreign manufacturing company is now permitted to set up a unit without any investment from the domestic market, bring in 100% of their share, and repatriate profit to their countries. This has made the domestic textile machinery manufacturing companies to compete in an unfavourable environment. To safeguard the domestic industry’s interest, government should create a level-playing field which will pave the way for ‘Make in India’ to prosper. This will also keep domestic industries healthy and will facilitate a healthy employment environment. Also, more incentives must be given to the textile sector to help explore the export market at competitive prices. Thirdly, Government needs to conduct an impartial assessment of the contribution of handlooms to the domestic market. They need to evaluate the function of handloom in preventing migrations from the rural areas, creating skilled employment opportunities in the villages. Handloom should be supported on its own merits and not as a burden of heritage to be carried into the 21st century. Finally, a simplified procedure is needed in the e-way bill legislation to ease transportation of goods by minimising documentation, physical verification and the like. Connecting the Dots: Why textile sector remains an ailing sector in India? Analyse. The potential of textiles industry in India hasn’t been tapped to it’s full. Discuss. What steps can be taken to integrate this industry with the global supply chain. In the global supply chain of textiles, where does India stand? Is there any room of upgrading our position towards greater value addition? Examine. Also suggest strategies to meet this end?

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Daily Current Affairs [IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam] – 7th December 2018

Daily Current Affairs [IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam] – 7th December 2018 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Beach pollution Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Environment and Ecology; Biodiversity; Pollution In news: In addition to air and water pollution, India can now add one more category to its pollution worries: beach pollution. According to a study by the National Centre of Coastal Research (NCCR) Tourism and fishing contributing most of the plastic litter on beaches. Plastic litter from tourism alone accounted for 40%-96% of all beach litter. Gopalpur in Odisha is the worst hit. After tourism, fishing was the next biggest source of litter. While fishing nets were a major contributor, the processing of fish on the beach also produced a lot of litter. Also, the proportion of biomedical litter was high in urban areas. Do you know? September 15, 2018 is celebrated as International Coastal Cleanup Day. India needs a national marine litter policy to control and manage waste on land and prevent its entry into the marine environment. Pic: https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2018/12/07/DEL/Delhi/TH/5_01/fd379e02_2576765_101_mr.jpg ‘Air pollution cause of 1 in 8 deaths’ Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II and III – Health; Environment and Ecology; Pollution In news: India has a disproportionately high 26% of the global premature deaths and disease burden due to air pollution. One in eight deaths in India was attributable to air pollution in India in 2017, making it a leading risk factor for death. (reduction in life expectancy associated with air pollution) Do you know? These research findings were published in The Lancet Planetary Health. 4 lakh deaths in India in 2017 were due to air pollution, which included 6.7 lakh deaths due to outdoor particulate matter air pollution and 4.8 lakh deaths due to household air pollution. In 2017, 77% population of India was exposed to ambient particulate matter PM2.5 above the recommended limit by the National Ambient Air Quality Standards. Highest PM2.5 exposure level was in Delhi, followed by the other north Indian States of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Haryana. Agriculture Export Policy: Policy to double agri exports Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Indian Economy; Agriculture In news: Cabinet approved the Agriculture Export Policy, aimed at increasing India’s exports to $60 billion by 2022 from the current $37 billion. This is in line with the Prime Minister’s vision of doubling farmers’ income. Objectives: To double farmers’ income. To diversify the export basket and destinations. To boost high-value and value-added exports, with a focus on perishables. To promote the export of “novel, indigenous, organic, ethnic, traditional and non-traditional” products. To provide an institutional mechanism for market access, tackling barriers, and dealing 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. NGT order: Karnataka must set aside ₹500 cr. for Bengaluru lakes Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Environment and Ecology; Biodiversity; Pollution In news: NGT orders Karnataka to set aside ₹500 cr. for cleaning up water bodies in Bengaluru. Lakes under danger – Bellandur, Agara and Varthur lakes The amount is to be utilised for execution of action plans to clean the water bodies. Do you know? Untreated sewage continued to flow into the water bodies “indiscriminately”. State government to deposit ₹50 crore to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) as environmental compensation. National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS) Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – Government schemes and policies In news: Union Cabinet approved the launching of the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS). The Mission is to be implemented by the Department of Science &Technology at a total outlay of ₹3,660 crore over five years. The Mission targets the establishment of 15 Technology Innovation Hubs (TIH), six Application Innovation Hubs and four Technology Translation Research Parks (TTRP). Details of the Mission: The Mission addresses the ever increasing technological requirements of the society, and takes into account the international trends and road maps of leading countries for the next generation technologies. The mission implementation would develop and bring: Cyber Physical Systems (CPS) and associated technologies within reach in the country, adoption of CPS technologies to address India specific National / Regional issues, produce Next Generation skilled manpower in CPS, catalyze Translational Research, accelerate entrepreneurship and start-up ecosystem development in CPS, give impetus to advanced research in CPS, Technology development and higher education in Science, Technology and Engineering disciplines, and place India at par with other advanced countries and derive several direct and indirect benefits. The Mission will feed the Central Ministries/ Departments and State Govts and also the Industry to effectively use the CPS technologies in their projects and schemes for the benefit of the society. Miscellaneous: NSCN(IM) cadre killed – A hardcore cadre of the Nationalist Socialist Council of Nagaland (Issac-Muivah) was killed in an encounter with security forces in Arunachal Pradesh. Korean firm Kia Motors India signed an MoU with the Andhra Pradesh government for collaboration on future eco-mobility and electric vehicle infrastructure. (Plant is located in Anantapur) Radhakrishnan  Committee on Road Safety: Death of nearly 15,000 people in road accidents are caused by potholes in the last five years, according to report filed by the Supreme Court Committee on Road Safety, headed by former Supreme Court judge Justice K.S. Radhakrishnan. Child porn videos to be removed: Online giants like Google, Facebook, Microsoft and messaging platform WhatsApp have all agreed in the Supreme Court that “child pornography, rape and gang rape videos and objectionable material need to be stamped out.” (MAINS FOCUS) ECONOMY TOPIC:General studies 3 Indian economy; Monetary Policy A valid pause: on RBI holding rates Introduction The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) has decided to keep the policy repo rate under the liquidity adjustment facility (LAF) unchanged at 6.5 per cent. This decision of the MPC is consistent with the stance of calibrated tightening of monetary policy in consonance with the objective of achieving the medium-term target for consumer price index (CPI) inflation of 4 per cent. It is to be noted that in the last policy review, the RBI had changed its policy stance to "Calibrated tightening" from "neutral", implying that cut in the policy rates was ruled out. Reasons for keeping the Policy rates unchanged The RBI expects that the retail inflation in India would stay below the legally mandated 4 per cent mark for the coming 12 months. It has cut its inflation forecast for the second half of the current fiscal year from 3.9-4.5 per cent to 2.7-3.2 per cent. The inflation forecast has been reduced by the RBI mainly on account of decline in food and fuel prices. The Crude oil prices have reduced by almost 30% in the last one month. Further, the food inflation has been lower on account of decline in the prices of sugar, pulses, fruits and vegetables. Do you know? RBI's various policy stances with regard to policy rates Accommodative Stance Accommodative stance means RBI may reduce the policy rates to increase the money supply in the economy. Under this stance, policy rates normally decrease. Usually, this policy is adopted when there is slowdown in the economy. Neutral stance Neutral stance means the RBI would have the flexibility to either increase or decrease the policy rates by taking into account the macroeconomic conditions. Under this stance, key policy rates would move in either direction. Usually, this policy is adopted when the inflation rate is stable. Calibrated Tightening stance Calibrated Tightening stance means the RBI would either keep the rates constant or increase the rates. Under this stance, key policy rates either remain unchanged or increase. Decrease in policy rates is ruled out. Usually, this policy is adopted when there are concerns of higher rate of inflation. Changes in SLR rate In order to boost credit flows, the RBI has decided to reduce the SLR from 19.5% to 18% over the next 6 quarters by reducing SLR by 25 bps each in every quarter. The SLR is one of the monetary policy tools used by the RBI to control money supply in the economy. SLR is the ratio of net demand and time deposits that the banks have to maintain with themselves in the form of cash, G-Secs and Gold. Increase in SLR rate leads to increase in rate of interest on loans leading to decrease in money supply. Similarly, decrease in SLR rate leads to increase in supply in the economy. Future challenges There has been divergence between CPI Core Inflation and Headline Inflation. The CPI core inflation has remained higher at 6.2% while the headline inflation has remained at 3.3%. This means that decline in Food prices and crude oil has so far had moderating effect on Inflation. However, since both food and crude oil are volatile commodities, one cannot expect that the rate of inflation would continue to remain lower. Further, the RBI is worried about the impact of increase in minimum support prices, possible fiscal slippages and a sudden increase in oil prices in case the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries decides on production cuts. Conclusion The central bank has once again raised a cautionary signal to governments, both at the Centre and in the States. Fiscal slippages risk impacting the inflation outlook, heightening market volatility and crowding out private investment. Instead, this may be an opportune time to bolster macroeconomic fundamentals through fiscal prudence. Connecting the dots: Discuss the various policy stances which monetary policy committee(MPC) can take while deciding the policy rates. INTERNATIONAL TOPIC:General studies 2 Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India's interests Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India's interests Together in an uncertain world: On India-EU relations Introduction European Union released its strategy on India after 14 years. This road map replaces 2004 EU-India Declaration on building bilateral strategic partnership. The European Union and India have upgraded their long-standing relationship to a strategic partnership in 2004, acknowledging their common goals and principles. Nowadays, in a challenging international environment, the EU and India share the same values of democracy, human rights, fundamental freedoms and support the rules-based global order centred on multilateralism. The European Union has unveiled a sweeping new vision to significantly scale up ties with India, including closer coordination to forge a multilateral rules-based world order and enhanced military-to-military relations and joint exercises. Background: India was one of the first countries to develop relations with the European Union. The Joint Political Statement of 1993 and the 1994 Co-operation Agreement were the foundational agreements for the bilateral partnership. In 2004, India and European Union became “Strategic Partners“. A Joint Action Plan was agreed upon in 2005 and updated in 2008. The EU is India’s largest trading partner with 12.5% of India’s overall trade between 2015 and 2016, ahead of China (10.8%) and the United States (9.3%). India is the EU’s 9th largest trading partner with 2.4% of the EU’s overall trade. Bilateral trade (in both goods & services) reached €115 billion in 2017. India is rapidly integrating with the global economy: At 1.25 billion, India is the second most populous state and largest democracy in the world. With an annual GDP growth rate in excess of 7.5 % for over a decade it is now in the world’s top ten largest economies (4th by PPP). As such, India is an important trade and investment partner for the EU, combining a sizable and growing market with one of the fastest growing economies in the world arguably the fastest among the big economies. Although it is far from the closed market that it was twenty years ago, India still maintains substantial tariff and non-tariff barriers that hinder trade with the EU. The new strategy makes EU trade policy more responsible by basing it on three key principles: Effectiveness: Making sure trade actually delivers on its promise of new economic opportunities. That means addressing the issues that affect today’s economy, including services and digital trade. Transparency: Opening up negotiations to more public scrutiny by publishing key negotiating texts from all negotiations, as has been done in the TTIP negotiations. Values: Safeguarding the European social and regulatory model at home. Using trade agreements and preference programmes as levers to for the worldwide promotion of European values such as sustainable development, human rights, fair and ethical trade and the fight against corruption. These three principles ensure that trade policy benefits as many people as possible.  Transformative shift: The new document is sweeping in its scope and lays out a road map for strengthening the EU-India partnership. The new strategy underscores a transformative shift in Brussels vis-à-vis India and talks of key focus areas: such as the need to conclude a broader Strategic Partnership Agreement, intensifying dialogue on Afghanistan and Central Asia, strengthening technical cooperation on fighting terrorism, and countering radicalisation, violent extremism and terrorist financing. More significant from the perspective of the EU, is a recognition of the need to develop defence and security cooperation with India. Despite sharing a congruence of values and democratic ideals, India and the EU have both struggled to build a partnership that can be instrumental in shaping the geopolitics and geo-economics of the 21st century. But where India’s relations with individual EU nations have progressed dramatically over the last few years and the EU’s focus on India has grown, it has become imperative for the two to give each other a serious look. India; a natural choice for EU As the wider EU political landscape evolves after Brexit, and India seeks to manage the turbulent geopolitics in Eurasia and the Indo-Pacific, both recognise the importance of engaging each other. There is a new push in Brussels to emerge as a geopolitical actor of some significance and India is a natural partner in many respects. There is widespread disappointment with the trajectory of China’s evolution and the Trump administration’s disdain for its Western allies is highly disruptive. At a time when India’s horizons are widening beyond South Asia and the Indian Ocean region, Brussels is also being forced to look beyond its periphery. The EU will be part of the International Solar Alliance, and has invited India to escort World Food Programme vessels to transport food to Somalia. The two have been coordinating closely on regional issues. Way forward: The new India strategy document unveiled by the EU, therefore, comes at an appropriate time when both have to seriously recalibrate their partnership. Merely reiterating that India and the EU are “natural partners” is not enough, and the areas outlined in the document, from security sector cooperation to countering terrorism and regional security, need to be focused on. India needs resources and expertise from the EU for its various priority areas, such as cybersecurity, urbanisation, environmental regeneration, and skill development. As the EU shifts its focus to India, New Delhi should heartily reciprocate this outreach. Connecting the dots: India and EU are "natural partners". Discuss India-EU relationship in various spheres. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Note: Featured Comments and comments Up-voted by IASbaba are the “correct answers”. IASbaba App users – Team IASbaba will provide correct answers in comment section. Kindly refer to it and update your answers. Q.1) Consider the below statements: Agriculture is the main source of nitrogen pollution in India, followed by sewage and organic solid wastes. Tourism and fishing contributing most of the plastic litter on beaches. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? Only 1 Only 2 Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) Which of the following Acts make Environment Impact Assessment mandatory in India? Indian Forest Act Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act Wildlife Protection Act Environment (Protection) Act Q.3) Which of the following are the correct examples of Pigovian Tax? Tax on pollution Tax on tobacco products Tax on alcoholic drinks Tax on Water supply Select the code from following: 1,2 and 3 2,3 and 4 4 only All of the above Q.4) The theme of Earth Day 2018 is – “End Plastic Pollution” “Wetlands for a Sustainable Urban Future” “Beat Plastic Pollution” ‘Nature for Water' – exploring nature-based solutions to the water challenges we face in the 21st century. Q.5) Bellandur, Agara and Varthur lakes are often in news. They are associated with which state? Karnataka Tamil Nadu Kerala Andhra Pradesh Q.6) Justice Radhakrishnan Committee is associated with Teacher Reforms Pension Reforms Labour Reforms Road Safety Reforms MUST READ Still on the last chance saloon The Hindu Is social media polarising society? The Hindu Farmers and others Indian Express Take a stand Indian Express  A larger freedom Indian Express Needed: A 25-year horizon Indian Express  Another blatant assault on the state Livemint Lessons from the World Bank on ease of doing business Livemint

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