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RSTV - International Convention on Terrorism

International Convention on Terrorism Archives TOPIC: General Studies 3: Security challenges and their management in border areas; linkages of organized crime with terrorism In News: Calling terrorism "the worst form of violation of human rights", India has decried attempts by some countries to prevent a unified international response to the threat. Despite terrorism being acknowledged as one of the foremost global challenges, any meaningful collective response to address this menace continues to be thwarted by some. The entire South Asia region, has been impacted by the activities of terrorist organizations like Al Qaeda, Taliban, Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jamat-Ud-Daawa and others. The growing interlinkages between terrorist groups, cross-border operations including terror financing networks, propagating ideologies of hatred through exploitation of modern technologies and funding arms and weapons have certainly left no country aloof from the impact of terrorism. India has thus, lamented the inability of the UN to adopt a legal framework to combat international terrorism, saying this "lacunae" is impacting enforcement efforts to destroy safe havens for terrorists and their support networks. India’s Position on Fighting Terrorism India considers that the intricate linkages and networks that unite terror groups can only be challenged through concerted international cooperation and efforts by way of extradition, prosecution, information exchange, and capacity building. There is an urgent need for the world to come together in fighting terrorism, especially financing of terror-related activities and create conditions which do not encourage such acts. The international community needs to work together to expose and destroy the linkages that exist between terrorists and their supporters. There is need also for an international mechanism to ensure accountability and justice, enhanced dialogue and broaden understanding amongst Member States. At the UN General Assembly., Ms. Swaraj said, “…On the one hand, we want to fight terrorism; on the other, we cannot define it. This is why terrorists with a price on their head are celebrated, financed and armed as liberation heroes by a country that remains a member of the United Nations. Cruelty and barbarism are advertised as heroism.” India’s Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT) India had proposed to the UN a draft document in 1996 on the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT) with the belief that it would provide a strong legal basis for the fight against terrorism and would be in the interest of all Member States to have a multilateral and collective dimension of counter terrorism effort. Objectives To have a universal definition of terrorism that all 193-members of the UNGA will adopt into their own criminal law To ban all terror groups and shut down terror camps To prosecute all terrorists under special laws To make cross-border terrorism an extraditable offence worldwide. Despite India’s efforts to push a global intergovernmental convention to tackle terrorism, the conclusion and ratification of the CCIT remains deadlocked, mainly due to opposition from three main blocs – the US, the Organization of Islamic Countries (OIC), and the Latin American countries. All three have objections over the “definition of terrorism” (the most divisive of the issues) and seek exclusions to safeguard their strategic interests. For example, the OIC wants exclusion of national liberation movements, especially in the context of Israel-Palestinian conflict. The US wanted the draft to exclude acts committed by military forces of states during peacetime. Thalif Deen described the situation as follows: "The key sticking points in the draft treaty revolve around several controversial yet basic issues, including the definition of ´terrorism´. For example, what distinguishes a "terrorist organisation" from a 'liberation movement'? And do you exclude activities of national armed forces, even if they are perceived to commit acts of terrorism? If not, how much of this constitutes 'state terrorism'?" Although consensus eludes towards adoption of the terrorism convention, but discussions have yielded three separate protocols that aim to tackle terrorism: International Convention for the Suppression of Terrorist Bombings, adopted on 15 December 1997; International Convention for the Suppression of the Financing of Terrorism, adopted on 9 December 1999; and International Convention for the Suppression of Acts of Nuclear Terrorism, adopted on 13 April 2005. The definition of the crime of terrorism which has been on the negotiating table of the Comprehensive Convention since 2002 reads as follows: "1. Any person commits an offence within the meaning of this Convention if that person, by any means, unlawfully and intentionally, causes: (a) Death or serious bodily injury to any person; or (b) Serious damage to public or private property, including a place of public use, a State or government facility, a public transportation system, an infrastructure facility or the environment; or (c) Damage to property, places, facilities, or systems referred to in paragraph1 (b) of this article, resulting or likely to result in major economic loss, …when the purpose of the conduct, by its nature or context, is to intimidate a population, or to compel a Government or an international organization to do or abstain from doing any act." Latest Developments The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) has resolved to fight terrorism, separatism and extremism with a renewed vigour in the next three years, and called for a unified global counter-terrorism front under the coordination of the U.N. SCO would work to stop the spread of terrorist ideology and eliminate factors and conditions that facilitated terrorism and extremism, acknowledging that there can be no justification to any act of terrorism or extremism. Called for “effectively fulfilling” the requirements of specialised UN Security Council resolutions to counter any forms of financing of terrorism and providing material and technical support to it Talked about the growing threat from foreign terrorists who returned to their countries or find shelter in third countries to continue their terrorist and extremist activity within the bloc. The member states will work to improve the information exchange mechanisms regarding these people and their movements, and speed up procedures to extradite foreign terrorists in accordance with the national legislation of the SCO member states and boost international cooperation both on the political level and between the security services. Reaffirmed their concern about the risk of weapons of mass destruction ending up in the hands of terrorist groups SCO also discussed the special role of the SCO Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure in the fight against “the three evils” — terrorism, extremism and separatism — to ensure regional security. The leaders advocated the strengthening of the international legal framework to counter this threat and support the initiative to draft an international convention against chemical and biological terrorist attacks at the Conference on Disarmament. Must Read: Link 1 + Link 2 Connecting the Dots: What are the sources of terror financing? Examine the nexus between terrorism and organised crime. What steps have been taken to stifle terror financing in India? Discuss. Terrorist organisations and organised crime cartels have not only appropriated each other’s methodologies but have also developed a symbiotic relationship. Do you agree? Illustrate.

AIR

All India Radio (AIR) : Women’s Participation in Agriculture

Women’s Participation in Agriculture ARCHIVES Search 15th October, 2018 Spotlight here: http://www.newsonair.com/Audio-Archive-Search.aspx TOPIC: General Studies 1 Role of women and women’s organization, Population and associated issues, poverty and developmental issues, General Studies 3 Agriculture and issues related to it Women are the backbone of the rural economy, especially in developing countries. They make up almost half of the world’s farmers, and over the last few decades, they have broadened their involvement in agriculture.  The number of female-headed households has also increased as more men have migrated to cities. As the primary caregivers to families and communities, women provide food and nutrition; they are the human link between the farm and the table. India’s agricultural industry, which employs 80 to 100 million women, cannot survive without their labour. From preparing the land, selecting seeds, preparing and sowing to transplanting the seedlings, applying manure/fertilisers/pesticides and then harvesting, winnowing and threshing, women work harder and longer than male farmers. Despite their hard labour in the field, women are not officially counted as farmers, and are either labelled “agricultural labourers” or “cultivators”. Agriculture can be an important engine of growth and poverty reduction. But the sector is underperforming in many countries in part because women, who are often a crucial resource in agriculture and the rural economy, face constraints that reduce their productivity. Rural women often manage complex households and pursue multiple livelihood strategies. Their activities typically include producing agricultural crops, tending animals, processing and preparing food, working for wages in agricultural or other rural enterprises, collecting fuel and water, engaging in trade and marketing, caring for family members and maintaining their homes. Many of these activities are not defined as “economically active employment” in national accounts but they are essential to the wellbeing of rural households. Critical Issues Women and unpaid household responsibilities: Women are generally less able than men to participate in economic opportunities because they face a work burden that men do not. In most societies, women are responsible for most of the household and child-rearing activities as well rearing of small livestock, although norms differ by culture and over time. This additional work burden is unpaid and limits women’s capacity to engage in income-earning activities, which often require a minimum fixed time before being profitable. Furthermore, the nature of tasks, such as caring for children and elderly household members, requires women to stay near the home, thus limiting options to work for a wage. Gender differences within Agriculture market: Intra-household inequality can also weaken a woman’s position also outside of the home (Kapadia, 1993 and 1995). Women are over-represented in jobs characterized by low wages, high job insecurity and generally poor labour standards. When women have limited decision-making ability within the household or low access to resources and household income, they are more likely to accept lower wages. Kantor (2008) notes that, for most women in northern India, labour market participation is a survival strategy for the household, not a means of improving standards of living or voice in the household. Lack of ownership of land: As many as 87 per cent of women do not own their land; only 12.7 per cent of them do. There are two primary reasons for the alarmingly low number: One, land being a state subject is not governed by the constitution under a uniform law that applies equally to all citizens but rather is governed by personal religious laws, which tend to discriminate against women when it comes to land inheritance. Second, the cultural aspect of the deep-rooted biases that hinder women’s ownership of land in patriarchal societies cannot be discounted. Women: Change Agents As the global community works toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) -- among them, SDG2, which aims to end hunger and malnutrition by 2030 -- women can be the key agents of change in agriculture, nutrition and rural development.  With better access to information, training, and technology, women can alter food production and consumption so that land and resources are used sustainably. In India Of the total farmers in the country, about 14 per cent are women. A research by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) conducted in nine states shows that the participation of women is 75 per cent in the production of major crops, 79 per cent in horticulture, 51 per cent in post-harvest work and 95 per cent in animal husbandry and fisheries. In order to bring women in the agriculture mainstream, the government has allocated more than 30 per cent of funds for women under various major schemes/programmes and development related activities. Under the National Cooperative Union of India (NCUI), 38.78 lakh women have been trained in the last two years. Similarly, 6.07 lakh and 7000 women have benefited through KVKs (Krishi Vigyan Kendra's) and skill training respectively. Economic Survey 2018: Gender-specific interventions for higher productivity “With growing rural to urban migration by men, there is ‘feminisation’ of agriculture sector, with increasing number of women in multiple roles as cultivators, entrepreneurs, and labourers,” the survey noted. Women play a significant and crucial role in agricultural development and allied fields “is a fact long taken for granted,” the survey observed. Women farmers should have enhanced access to resources like land, water, credit, technology and training which warrants critical analysis in the context of India. The entitlements of women farmers will be the key to improve agriculture productivity. The differential access of women to resources like land, credit, water, seeds and markets needs to be addressed. Focus on women self-help group (SHG) to connect them to micro-credit through capacity building activities and to provide information and ensuring their representation in different decision-making bodies. The Way Forward An ‘inclusive transformative agricultural policy’ should aim at gender-specific interventions to raise productivity of small farm holdings, integrate women as active agents in rural transformation, and engage men and women in extension services with gender expertise. An increased work burden with lower compensation is a key factor responsible for their marginalisation. It is important to have gender-friendly tools and machinery for various farm operations. Most farm machinery is difficult for women to operate. Manufacturers should be incentivised to come up with better solutions. Farm machinery banks and custom hiring centres promoted by many State governments can be roped in to provide subsidised rental services to women farmers. Equalising access to productive resources for female and male farmers could increase agricultural output in developing countries by as much as 2.5% to 4%. Krishi Vigyan Kendras in every district can be assigned an additional task to educate and train women farmers about innovative technology along with extension services. Providing women with access to secure land is key to incentivising the majority of India’s women farmers. This, coupled with the need to make investments to improve harvests, will result in increased productivity and improve household food security and nutrition. Land-owning women’s offspring thus receive better nourishment and have better health indicators. Land-owning mothers also tend to invest in their children’s education. Ultimately, this is a win-win situation all around — for the farmer, her family and the larger ecosystem. With security of tenure, female farmers should be provided with the three critical driving factors — the incentive, the security, as well as the opportunity — to invest in the land they harvest. Security of land tenure also presents advantages for landlords by removing the fear of losing their land ownership. Note: 15th October: International Day of Rural Women by the United Nations, and National Women’s Farmer’s Day (Rashtriya Mahila Kisan Diwas) in India Connecting the Dots: With the ‘feminisation of agriculture’ picking up pace, the challenges women farmers face can no longer be ignored. Analyse the challenges faced by women farmers in India and suggest some measures to alleviate them.

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs [Prelims + Mains Focus] - 04th December 2018

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 04th December 2018 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Cow vigilantism: Cop and villager killed in Bulandshahr clashes Part of: GS Mains II – National; Issues affecting secular character and integrity In news: Protesters, including members of right-wing groups, clashed with security men and set their vehicles and a police post on fire in the three-hour rampage after reports of cow slaughter at UP’s Bulandshahr. Cow slaughter is banned in many Indian states, including Uttar Pradesh, because Hindus consider it a sacred animal. There have been multiple cases of lynchings over alleged cow slaughter and illegal cow transportation reported over the past few years from Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Jharkhand, Rajasthan, and other parts of North India. Over the past two years or so we have seen a rising tide of violence, mainly in northern India, against Dalits and Muslims. This has revolved around the treatment of the cow. Indians have been physically attacked by rampaging mobs accusing them of storing beef or transporting cows for slaughter. Issues: From last two years, incidents of mob justice have come to light time and again. The state response has been conspicuously lacking more often than not. The situation is deplorable both for the cumulative effect on the moral life of the nation. It sends a troubling message about the state’s abilities and prerogatives. The majoritarian nature of many of the lynchings, perpetrated by self-styled gau rakshaks. Cow protection has been a symbol in these incidents—a means of acting against the victims for reasons that have to do either with religion or caste. Muslims and Dalits have been targeted repeatedly on the flimsiest of pretexts. Do you know? Rule 3 of Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Establishment & Regulation of Societies for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) Rules, 2001, empowers “civil society groups” to protect animals. According to Rule 3(5) of PCA Rules, 2001 – a State can confer powers upon “any society” in district to prevent cruelty against animals. Rule 3 is providing State accreditation to cow vigilantism. Rule also providing police powers to civil society groups to stop vehicles, search premises and seize animals. Supreme Court has expressed shock over this Rule. Qatar to quit OPEC Part of: Prelims and Mains II – International In news: Qatar will leave the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) next month in order to focus on gas production. Qatar has been a member of OPEC since 1961, and the decision to pull out after all these decades comes at a turbulent time in Gulf politics, with Doha under a boycott by former neighbouring allies, including Saudi Arabia, for 18 months. About OPEC The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) was founded in Baghdad, Iraq, with the signing of an agreement in September 1960 by five countries namely Islamic Republic of Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Venezuela. They were to become the Founder Members of the Organization. These countries were later joined by Qatar (1961), Indonesia (1962), Libya (1962), the United Arab Emirates (1967), Algeria (1969), Nigeria (1971), Ecuador (1973), Gabon (1975), Angola (2007), Equatorial Guinea (2017) and Congo (2018). ‘No Road No Vote Central Committee’ (NRNCC) Part of: GS Mains – Role of Pressure Groups In news: More than 4,000 people in 24 remote villages in Arunachal Pradesh would get a proper road connectivity for the first time. Thanks to ‘No Road No Vote Central Committee’ (NRNCC) – an organisation which is spearheading the campaign for the construction of the road. Not a single vote was cast at five of the nine polling stations After the locals threatened to launch a civil disobedience movement to surrender their voter identity cards to the State government if their demand was not met, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister assured to look into the grievances. The road has been sanctioned under the Pradhan Mantri Gramin Sadak Yojana (PMGSY). ISRO’s 5.8-tonne GSAT-11 ready for launch Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Science and Technology In news: GSAT-11, heaviest Indian communication satellite, to take off from French Guiana (South America) The 5,854 kg satellite, almost double the biggest one built or launched by ISRO to date, will ride up on European launch vehicle Ariane 5 ECA. 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. Do you know? Two high-throughput communication satellite (HTS) are already up in space – GSAT-29 (November 14) and GSAT-19 (June 2017) They are all to provide high-speed Internet data services at the rate of 100 Gbps (Gigabits per second) to Indian users. The HTSs will also be the backbone of pan-India digital or easy Internet-based programmes and services — such as Digital India, Bharat Net for rural e-governance, and commercial and public sector VSAT Net service providers. Pic: https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2018/12/04/DEL/Delhi/TH/5_07/47720869_2571067_101_mr.jpg India and Bhutan Ties Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – India and its neighbours; International Relations In news: Bhutan’s Prime Minister Lotay Tshering is expected to visit India. He reiterated that India remains the cornerstone of Bhutan’s foreign policy. Bhutan aims to graduate from an LDC (least developed country) to a middle-income country by 2023. Area of focus will be – India’s revised policy on cross-border trade of electricity (CBTE) – which is expected to impact Bhutan’s ability to sell power to India. Revising BBIN (Bangladesh-Bhutan-India-Nepal) Motor Vehicles Agreement – which was opposed by Bhutanese Parliament. Bhutan’s new Foreign Minister reiterated the country’s policy of not having full relations with any permanent member of the UN Security Council, including China. Permanent Chairman of the Chiefs of Staff Committee (PCCoSC) Part of: GS Mains III – Defence and Security In news: The three services – Army, Navy and Air Force – are taking steps to improve ‘jointmanship’ and have agreed on the appointment of a Permanent Chairman of the Chiefs of Staff Committee. The PCCoSC is envisaged as a single-point military adviser to the government. Do you know? The permanent chairman, CoSC will be a four-star officer, who will be equivalent to chiefs of army, airforce and navy. He would look into joint issues of the services like training of troops, acquisition of weapon systems and joint operations of the services. The officer would also be in-charge of the tri-services command at Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the strategic command of nuclear weapons along with the upcoming cyber and space command. The Naresh Chandra Task Force, formed in May 2011 to review the national security management system, recommended the creation of permanent post of chairman, chiefs of staff committee (CoSC). (MAINS FOCUS) WORLD HISTORY/INTERNATIONAL TOPIC:General studies 1 and 2 World History Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India's interests Symbol of a lost order: On George H.W. Bush Introduction The passing of George H.W. Bush, the 41st President of the United States, from 1989 to 1993, is an occasion to contextualise the current turbulence in the world, especially in liberal democracies. America’s pursuit of global dominance It was his (H. W. Bush's) predecessor, Ronald Reagan, who gave a rhetorical flourish to America’s pursuit of global dominance in the 1980s with his depiction of the Soviet Union as the “evil empire”, and his call to “break that wall”. W Bush was his Vice President and then successor. One phrase he coined, a “new world order”, turned out to be defining, initially for its triumph, and now for its decline. Do you know; what is new World Order? It refers to any period in history which experiences a dramatic change in balance of power and global governance. Such changes occurred after World War II with the formation of United Nations and such other events. New World order from 1989 onwards There was a formation of a New World Order from 1989 onwards with respect to changes in international world. Those changes were - Cause of breakup of USSR Effect of US hegemony First Gulf War Fall of Berlin Wall Conclusion Bush lived to see the unravelling of the world order and the concomitant turmoil. It is no coincidence that nationalists such as President Donald Trump define their politics as a rejection of the order that led their societies for the “last 30 years”. The new Trade war and rise of multi-polar world marks the decline of 1980’s New World Order and beginning of yet another. Connecting the dots: A New World Order which was established in late 1980s is now declining. Do you agree? (Note: For more on US hegemony, read the Third Chapter from Class XII NCERT: Contemporary world politics) INTERNATIONAL TOPIC:General studies 2 India and its neighbourhood Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India's interests Neighbourhood First: Foreign policy shift in 2018 Introduction The current year, 2018, has marked a year of reaching out in the region by the current government in general, with a view to dialling down disagreements that otherwise marked ties with major powers such as Russia and China. But while “Wuhan summit” with Chinese President and the “Sochi retreat” with Russian President merited much attention, it is important to take stock of attempts at rapprochement in the immediate neighbourhood. Recent events of change in posture by Indian government to neighbours: Maldives PM Narendra Modi recently made his first visit to Maldives during the swearing in ceremony of the newly elected President Ibrahim Solih. The visit acted as means of support and acceptance of the new government of Maldives after having a conflicted relationship with the previous government of President Yameen. China PM Modi indulged in the 'Wuhan Summit' with Chinese President Xi Jingping that led to the process of consultation for a peaceful resolution of boundary dispute, after having been in cross-fire over the Doklam issue in 2017. Nepal India government was accused of fuelling the blockade of Nepal in 2015, apart from opposing the earlier government of K.P. Oli in Nepal. However, the re- election of K.P. Oli as PM of Nepal in 2018 led to the Indian government continuously engaging with the new government through multiple visits. Afghanistan Indian government refused to share a common regional platform with the ousted Taliban government of Afghanistan after 9/11. However, the Moscow Format held by Russia became the first regional platform that India has shared in an un-official manner with the Taliban. Pakistan India had refused to engage with the government of Pakistan after the Uri attack in 2016 and refused to also engage with the new government under Imran Khan that was elected in 2018. However, during the recent opening of the Kartarpur Corridor, India was represented by two Central Ministers in Pakistan. Bangladesh, Bhutan & Sri Lanka Indian official have always shown an inclination in support of the Sheikh Hasina political party Awami League in Bangladeshi elections as being pro- India, in comparison to the pro-Pakistan party of Khaleda Zia. However in the up-coming election in Bangladesh in December 2018, India has maintained a silenced role. Similarly with elections in Bhutan as well as the ongoing political crisis in Sri Lanka, India has chosen to make no public political statement that could be construed as interference or preference for one side over the other. Speculated causes of this Change: Sustained backlash from government in Nepal especially with support of Nepalese electorate led to a need to follow an accommodative policy. Positive changes in circumstances such as the new President in Maldives or opening of Kartarpur corridor needed to be positively accommodated rather than dismissed Pursuing both competition and cooperation with neighbours based on national interest such as seen with China. India's aggression under the Big Brother policy enhanced the attractiveness of China as a balancer in South Asia and therefore a change in posture was necessary. Conclusion A retreat to the original policy imperative of the current government; Neighbourhood First, whereby a balanced approach of both aggression and accommodation will be followed with neighbours. However, it is yet to be seen whether the change in posture is a temporary foreign policy imperative or a permanent fixture. Connecting the dots: Critically analyse the shift in India's foreign policy with regard to neighbouring countries over last few years. (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 Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) It is an intergovernmental organisation of Central and Western Asian Countries The OPEC Secretariat is located in Vienna World Oil Outlook (WOO) is published by OPEC Select the correct code: 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 2 Only Q.2) Consider the following statements with respect to Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) All the founding members were from Asia It is headquartered in Baghdad Select the correct statement(s) Only 1 Only 2 Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) is an example of Monopoly Oligopoly Perfect Competition None of the above Q.4) Consider the following statements about GSAT-11 It is a communication satellite operated by INSAT system It will be launched from Sriharikota by PSLV C34 It will be India’s heaviest satellite till date Which of the following statements is/are correct? Only 1 1 and 3 1 and 2 All of the above Q.5) Consider the following statements about Andaman and Nicobar Command It is India's only operational tri-services command It was created in 2001 to safeguard India's strategic interests in Southeast Asia and the Strait of Malacca Select the correct statements 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 MUST READ  Two Punjabs, one South Asia The Hindu Secular democracy in peril The Hindu  Make planning fashionable again The Hindu  Beyond binaries Indian Express   Raja Mandala: Rethinking the Gulf Indian Express  Corridor of uncertainty Indian Express

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 122]

UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 122] Archives Q.1) ‘World Development Report (WDR) 2019’ is released by World Bank World Economic Forum World Trade Organisation None of the above Q.2) The Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) is a triennial international survey which aims to evaluate education systems worldwide by testing the skills and knowledge of 15-year-old students. It is conducted by United Nations Organization for Education, Science and Culture World Economic Forum Etudes Sans Frontières International Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development Q.3) Which of the following authorities are involved in aspects of operation of civil remotely piloted aircraft system? Ministry of Home Affairs Ministry of Defence Indian Air Force Select the correct code: 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.4) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Heart Attack Rewind’ It is launched by World Health Organisation (WHO) It promotes the elimination of industrially produced trans-fat in the food supply. Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.5) Consider the following statements ‘Digital Sky Platform’ is an online IT platform developed for handling Unmanned Aerial Operator’s Permit (UAOP) and Unique Identification Numbers (UIN) applications, permission to fly drones in India. UIN is unique identification number issued by DGCA for a particular Remotely Piloted Aerial Systems (RPAS) except for Nano-drones 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

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs [Prelims + Mains Focus] - 3rd December 2018

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 3rd December 2018 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) China and the United States to halt additional tariffs  Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II and III – Indian Economy; International Affairs In news: China and the United States decide to hold off fresh tariffs for 90 days. Washington keeps the rate at 10%; Beijing agrees to buy American farm products. Both sides are trying again to bridge their differences with fresh talks aimed at reaching an agreement within 90 days. The two sides will also launch new trade talks to address issues, including technology transfer, intellectual property, non-tariff barriers, and agriculture. If no deal is reached within 90 days, both parties agreed that the 10% tariffs will be raised to 25%. How US-China trade war will affect India? In trade conflicts, there are no winners. Too much protectionism ultimately constricts global growth. The effects of a trade war are unlikely to be restricted to merely these two countries. Due to this, India too could find some changing dynamics in its economy. The basic principles of economics, i.e., demand and supply, will once again come into play. The shortage of supply of a good, either finished material or raw material, will increase the final consumption price for the consumer. Moreover, the burden of increased tax from the duties will also be borne by the final user. The following are some ways the Indian economy may be affected: The value of the Rupee has dropped to an all-time low. Weakening of the US dollar will automatically create negative impact on the trade deficit of India, causing a chain reaction of sorts. Moreover, a trade war would slowdown global growth overall, worsening India’s already dismal export numbers. Poor investors’ confidence - key indices in the Indian share market dropped due to the cautious approach of the investors. BSE Sensex and NSE Nifty performance fell. Reduces investment flows into India. India-US duties - As the United States of America imposed duties on steel and aluminium, India now has to pay approximately $241 million worth of tax to the US. India, on the other hand, as a counter-measure has proposed imposing duties on 30 different types of goods. This will ensure that the US has to pay about $238 million as duties to India. However, this will make life more difficult for the end consumers as everything that falls under the tariff scanner is expected to become more expensive. On tackling chaotic traffic Part of: GS Mains III – Infrastructure; Transport In news: New York’s ex-transport commissioner, Janette Sadik-Khan, spoke about how India can reclaim their streets for people. She suggested for providing all sorts of mobility, like the Bus Rapid Transit system (BRTS). To build high-capacity systems that can make it easier and more affordable and faster for people to move around. Be more efficient and effective with the streets we have. Do you know? Janette Sadik-Khan cemented her reputation as one of the world’s foremost sustainable transport leaders by radically transforming the mean streets of the Big Apple into a haven for bicyclists and pedestrians. Under her tenure, more than 60 pedestrian plazas (like the one in Times Square) were created. Train 18 – India’s first engine-less train Pic: https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2018/12/03/CNI/Chennai/TH/5_07/82176249_9ac25d44_101_mr.jpg Miscellaneous 1. India to host G20 summit in 2022 For the first time, India will host the annual G20 summit in 2022, when the country celebrates its 75th anniversary of Independence. Italy was to host the summit in 2022. 2. DRDO invites applications from military officers The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has invited applications from serving officers of the three services already working with it for permanent absorption as civilian officials into its Defence Research and Development Cadre (DRDS). 3. Person in news: Sunil Arora Sunil Arora, a retired 1980-batch IAS officer of the Rajasthan cadre, took over as Chief Election Commissioner (CEC). 4. UNAIDS: ‘90-90-90’ Do you know? UNAIDS has envisioned to achieve ‘90-90-90’ target by 2020, which will result in controlling HIV infection to sustainable state by 2030. As per the ‘90-90-90’ target, 90% of all HIV infected persons should get diagnosed and know their HIV positive status. Ninety % of these diagnosed HIV positive persons are to be provided regular Antiretroviral Therapy (ART). Ninety % of persons taking ART should show signs of viral suppression which reduces their scope of infection. 5. Hornbill Festival is held in Nagaland 6. ‘Ex Cope India-18’ Bilateral drills between the Indian Air Force and the U.S. Air Force. This is for the first time, the exercise is being held at two Air Force bases (Kalaikunda and Panagarh air bases in West Bengal). The U.S. has sent a fleet of F15 C/D and C-130 military aircraft. The IAF is participating with the Su-30 MKI, Jaguar, Mirage 2000, C-130J and AWACS (Airborne Warning and Control System) aircraft. 7. China rejects India’s proposal to carry out bilateral trade in local currencies China has not accepted India’s proposal to carry out bilateral trade in local currencies, which was aimed at bridging the ballooning trade deficit with the neighbour. India had mooted renminbi-rupee trade with China to boost exports and tackle the widening trade deficit concern. India has also proposed trade in national currencies with other countries, including Russia, Iran and Venezuela with which New Delhi has a trade deficit. (MAINS FOCUS) NATIONAL/ETHICS TOPIC:General studies 2, 4 and Essay Constitution and Justice delivery system in India Ethical aspects of capital punishment Essay The debate on Ethical aspect of Capital Punishment Introduction In questioning the merits of retaining the death penalty, Justice Kurian Joseph has re-ignited a debate that is important and requires serious thought. Justice Joseph holds a view that the time has come to review the death penalty, its purpose and practice. It is impossible to ignore the ethical and practical dimensions of the debate in a world that is increasingly questioning the wisdom of capital punishment. Constitutionality of death penalty The unconstitutionality of death penalty was raised in the case of Bachhan Singh v State of Punjab. The Supreme Court in that case said that death penalty is constitutional but should be given only in the rarest of rare cases. Questions raised on decision making in capital punishment The moot question raised here is the decision-making process of a Judge in a case of capital punishment as the life of the person depends on the reasons articulated by such honorable Justices. In this aspect, concerns over judge-centric variations of arguments have been raised in the past. The Supreme Court itself spoke of the “extremely uneven application” of the norms laid down in Bachhan Singh. Even the Law Commission, in its Report in 2015, said that the constitutional regulation of capital punishment attempted in that case has failed to prevent death sentences from being “arbitrarily and freakishly imposed”. Justice Joseph has highlighted Law Commission’s concern that there exists no principled method to remove such arbitrariness from capital sentencing. Public outrage and capital punishment In recent times, public outrage, the need for deterrence, and the clamor for a befitting punishment to render substantial justice have dominated the general discourse. In cases of heinous crimes (eg: Nirbhaya case), it becomes less important for the public to understand the reason of punishment than the imposition of punishment Thus, whether the punishment has been given to reform the person or to punish the person or for retribution becomes less significant. The quantum of punishment becomes more important (whether the punishment is capital punishment or life imprisonment) as only the quantum of it seems to serve ends of justice in the eyes of the public at large. Checks and balances to avoid arbitrariness The Supreme Court has narrowed the scope of giving capital punishment by laying down the norms of rarest of rare cases in Bachhan Singh v State of Punjab. Reviews and petitions are routinely admitted by the Supreme Court and Review Petitions are heard in open Courts on capital punishments. The treatment of prisoners serving death sentence has been humanized, and there is scope for judicial review even against a sovereign decision denying clemency. Conclusion Thus, the question of capital punishment needs to be debated away from the general public discourse and on a higher moral plane where there shall be no death penalty in law, regardless of the nature, circumstances and consequences of an offence. The views of the Law Commission and Justice Joseph on abolishing capital punishment should not be ignored and must be debated. Connecting the dots: It is not the just the execution but the method that questions capital punishment. Comment. ECONOMY TOPIC:General studies 3 Indian and global economy Inclusive growth Labour wages Wage drag: on ILO’s Global Wage Report Introduction The International Labour Organisation’s Global Wage Report has put into sharp relief one of the biggest drags on global economic momentum: slowing wage growth. The ILO’s report underlines the need for wage expansion that is robust and also equitable. Key observations Global wage growth, adjusted for inflation, slowed to 1.8% in 2017, from 2.4% in 2016, this is the lowest rate since 2008. Excluding China (given its high population and rapid wage growth it tends to skew the mean), the average was even lower (1.1% in 2017 against 1.8% in 2016). Across a majority of geographies and economic groupings, wage expansions were noticeably tepid last year. In the advanced G20 countries the pace eased to 0.4%, with the U.S. posting an unchanged 0.7% growth and Europe (excluding Eastern Europe) stalling at about zero. The emerging and developing economies in the G20 were not spared a deceleration, with the growth in wages slowing to 4.3%, from 4.9% in 2016. In the Asia and Pacific nations, where workers had enjoyed the biggest real wage growth worldwide between 2006 and 2017, it slid to 3.5% from the previous year’s 4.8%. Causes and effects of low wage growth The obvious impact of this low pace has been on global economic growth with consumption demand hurt by restrained spending by wage-earners. The ILO report observes that the acceleration of economic growth in high-income countries in 2017 was led mainly by higher investment spending rather than by private consumption. Real wages almost tripled in the developing and emerging countries of the G20 between 1999 and 2017, while in the advanced economies the increase over the same period aggregated to a far lower 9%. In many low- and middle-income economies the average wage, in absolute terms, was so low it was still inadequate to cover the bare needs of workers. The intensification of competition in the wake of globalisation, accompanied by a worldwide decline in the bargaining power of workers has resulted in a decoupling between wages and labour productivity. Share of labour compensation in GDP across many countries that remains substantially below those of the early 1990s. Do you know? For the first time, the ILO report also focuses on the global gender pay gap, using data from 70 countries and some 80 per cent of employees worldwide. Its findings indicate that despite some significant regional differences, men continue to be paid around 20 per cent more than women. In high-income countries the gender pay gap is at its biggest in top-salaried positions. In low and middle-income countries the gap is widest among lower-paid workers. Its data also suggests that traditional explanations for this - such as differences in the levels of education between men and women who work - play only a "limited" role in explaining gender pay gaps. In many countries women are more highly educated than men but earn lower wages, even when they work in the same occupational categories. The wages of both men and women also tend to be lower in enterprises and occupations with a predominantly female workforce. Conclusion The widening inequality is slowing demand and growth by shifting larger shares of income to rich households that save rather than spend. For India; to reap the demographic dividend we need not only jobs, but wage expansion that is robust and equitable. To reduce gender pay gaps more emphasis should be placed on ensuring equal pay for women and men, and on addressing the lower value placed on women's work. Connecting the dots: Critically analyse the wage growth in India and the world. Briefly explain the impacts of low wage growth on economy. (Note: For more on ILO's wage report, refer IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs [Prelims + Mains Focus] – 1st December 2018) (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 theme of 2018’s summit was 'Building consensus for fair and sustainable development'. Which of the following organization’s theme is this? World Economic Forum G-20 World Entrepreneurship Summit ASEAN Q.2) The Financial Stability Board (FSB) is an international body that monitors and makes recommendations about the global financial system. FSB has been established by World Bank IMF World Economic Forum G 20 Q.3) Government has recently announced National Strategic Plan on HIV/AIDS and Sexually transmitted infections.  Which of the following are the aims of this program? To eliminate mother to child transmission of HIV and Syphilis by 2020 To eliminate HIV/AIDS related stigma and discrimination by 2020 To eradicate HIV/AIDS by 2030 Select the code from following: 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.4) Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is concerned with AIDS/HIV Virus Tuberculosis Blood Cancer Leprosy  Q.5) Ex Cope India-18 is bilateral Air Force exercise between - India and the US India and Russia India and France India and UK MUST READ Job creation at the farmer’s doorstep The Hindu  Sharing outbreak data The Hindu  Digital dungeons & dragons Indian Express  Mumbai opportunity Indian Express  The new trilateralism Indian Express  In Good Faith: Ethics for enlightenment Indian Express Over The Barrel: How to avoid the perfect storm Indian Express

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 121]

UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 121] Archives Q.1) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Kyoto Protocol’ It is an international agreement linked to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, which commits its Parties by setting internationally binding emission reduction targets. The detailed rules for the implementation of the Protocol were adopted at COP 7 in Marrakesh, Morocco, in 2001, and are referred to as the "Marrakesh Accords." Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities (CBDR–RC)’ It acknowledges the different capabilities and differing responsibilities of individual countries in addressing climate change. The principle of CBDR–RC is enshrined in the 1992 UNFCCC treaty Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) Which of the following cities are listed under UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN)? Jaipur Chennai Lucknow Select the correct code: 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.4) ‘3C 273’, was recently in news. What is it? A particular strain of rotavirus A Quasar A type of Cardiac stem cell therapy A composite made of phosphorene and silicon nanoparticles Q.5) Titu Mir led the Wahabi Movement Faraizi Movement Narkelberia uprising Mappila uprising To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs [Prelims + Mains Focus] - 1st December 2018

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 1st December 2018 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) International Labour Organisation’s Global Wage Report Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II and III – Gender pay gaps; Labour/Wage inequality issues; Economy In news: According to ILO’s Global Wage Report – Global wage growth, adjusted for inflation, slowed to 1.8% in 2017 (lowest rate since 2008). During the financial crisis in 2008, Global wage growth stood at 3.4 per cent. 2017 Global wage growth would fall further to 1.1 per cent if China, which made a significant contribution to this growth, were to excluded from the list. Among all regions, workers in Asia and the Pacific got the highest real wage growth over the period 2006-17 with countries like China, India, Thailand and Vietnam remaining on top, the report revealed. Real wage growth Real wage growth is calculated using gross monthly wages, rather than hourly wage rates, which are less frequently available, and fluctuations, therefore, reflect both hourly wages and the average number of hours worked.   What Global Wage Report says about India? India registered highest average real wage growth during 2008-2017 in south Asia. India and Pakistan has the highest gap of 34.5 per cent and 34 per cent respectively between what men and women earn. This wage gap was the worst among all the 73 countries for which data was compiled. Women continued to be paid around 20 per cent less than men globally and the gap was lowest in high-income countries and highest in low and middle income countries. G20 summit and trilateral meetings JAI and RIC Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – International Relations; Multilateral organization or ties In news: India held its first trilateral meeting with US and Japan, Modi; named partnership as ‘JAI’. “JAI” (Hindi for success or victory) – name for the triumvirate of Japan, America (the United States) and India. Leaders of JAI exchanged views on Indo Pacific, maritime and connectivity issues. The three leaders reaffirmed the importance of the Free and Open Indo-Pacific vision for global stability and prosperity, and pledged to deepen trilateral cooperation. Do you know? The second Russia-India-China ‘RIC’ Trilateral Summit took place in Buenos Aires after a gap of 12 years. The leaders discussed cooperation and coordination in various areas which could contribute to global peace and stability. India has emerged common factor in two G-20 trilaterals G20 summit, Buenos Aires, Argentina The G20 is the premier forum for its members’ international economic cooperation and decision-making. Its membership comprises 19 countries plus the European Union. The G20 started in 1999 as a meeting of Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors in the aftermath of the Asian financial crisis. In 2008, the first G20 Leaders’ Summit was held, and the group played a key role in responding to the global financial crisis. G20 leaders have met nine times since 2008. Over the past six years, the G20 has framed the world’s efforts to restore growth and build the resilience of financial institutions and national economies. The G20 is supported by international organisations, including the Financial Stability Board, the International Labour Organisation, the International Monetary Fund, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, the United Nations, the World Bank and the World Trade Organization. These and several other organisations are invited to attend key G20 meetings. In Argentina’s G20 summit many issues will be discussed such as global economy, sustainable development, climate change, and fugitive economic offenders. India is a member of G20. Climate talks set to begin in Katowice, Poland Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Environment and Climate Change; In news: India to resist attempts by countries to renegotiate the Paris Agreement India wants CoP-24 to be balanced, inclusive and consistent with the Paris Agreement The landmark Paris Agreement deal agreed to in 2015 exhorts countries to take steps to avoid temperatures from rising beyond 2C of pre-industrial levels, and even 1.5 C as far as possible, by the end of the century. Currently global emissions are poised to warm the world by 3C by the end of the century. The United States opted out of the deal last year but continues to be part of discussions as a complete withdrawal — as per terms of the UN convention — takes up to four years. Miscellaneous: India’s first international indigenous film festival will take place in February next year in Odisha. Kerala undertook its first-ever captive elephant census. As many as 521 elephants were enumerated in the massive exercise undertaken by the Forests and Wildlife Department on the basis of a Supreme Court order. Bachan Singh (1980) case - The Constitution Bench judgment of Supreme Court of India in Bachan Singh vs State of Punjab (1980) made it very clear that Capital punishment in India can be given only in rarest of rare cases. (MAINS FOCUS) NATIONAL TOPIC:General studies 3 Environment and climate change Workforce in Indian economy and Agriculture Cool it: Health and labour loss due to heatwave Introduction The Lancet countdown on health and climate report was released recently. Coming on the eve of the UN climate conference in Katowice, Poland, the report of the Lancet panel for 2018 brings clarity, placing connected issues in perspective for governmental action. Adverse Health Impacts of Climate Change The world is facing the biggest health challenge of 21st century due to climate change amid rising global temperature. There has been increase in frequency, duration and intensity of heat waves in India which has resulted in increased deaths due to heat stroke, heart failure, acute kidney failure and frequent cases of dehydration. Because of heat waves, there has been loss of work hours and labour capacity. The maximum impact of heat wave has been in the agricultural sector – a large section of the population that depends on farming. This has resulted in decline in household income. As per World Bank estimate, in India there will be high socio-economic cost which may lead to erosion of 2.8% of GDP by 2050. The increase in heat wave may also result in pre-mature deaths, increase in vector borne disease, decrease in labour capacity and it will also adversely affect food production leading to food insecurity. What should be India’s response? Identification of heat spots by tracking meteorological data and promoting development of local Heat Action Plan. India should review occupational health standards and regulate safety of work force amid rising temperature. It is vital that India gets more ambitious about cutting back on carbon emissions, even as it presses for the fulfillment of the climate finance obligations of developed countries under the Paris Agreement of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change. A further reduction in the share of coal in the energy mix through sustained support for renewable energy, particularly solar photovoltaics, must form the cornerstone of national policy. This must be matched by a shift away from use of fossil fuels for transport, and the induction of more electric vehicles. To address adverse weather events (like Kerala floods), India must be well prepared in their disaster management efforts and also force the global community to release adequate funds to combat the impact of climate change. The importance of funds for adaptation is underscored by Lancet’s finding that 99% of losses from climate-related events in low-income countries were not insured. Conclusion The consensus on climate change is that it has begun to affect the intensity and frequency of extreme weather events. India’s approach to adaptation should prepare for catastrophes with a well-considered plan to provide relief and rehabilitation. The increased exposure to heatwaves needs a policy response at national and global fronts. Connecting the dots: What are heatwaves? Increased exposure to heatwaves needs a policy response, nationally and globally. Comment. NATIONAL TOPIC:General studies 2&3 Various government institutions; their regulation and autonomy Banking, Monetary policy and RBI In a spirit of accommodation Introduction In the wake of ongoing spat between central government and RBI, some important questions have arisen. These questions relate to the relationship between the RBI and the government and between the RBI management and its board. Even if one cannot come to definitive conclusions, it is important to note the ramifications of the issues raised. Two aspects of RBI's Autonomy The RBI must enjoy autonomy which can be seen in two aspects- autonomy as monetary authority and autonomy as a regulator. The recent change in the monetary policy framework setting up the Monetary Policy Committee and giving it full freedom to determine the policy rate is a giant step forward in terms of giving the RBI autonomy. However, since the mandate of the RBI as a regulator is broad and vague, the autonomy of the RBI as a regulator is blurred. Relationship between RBI and Government The Section 7 of the RBI act provides for a legal framework for the nature of relationship between RBI and Government. This section enables the government to issue directions to the RBI in public interest. In spite of this enabling provision, the government has not issued directions so far. For example; Benegal Rama Rau resigned as RBI Governor in 1957 on an issue on which he differed from the government. The government clearly stated that monetary policies must necessarily depend upon the larger policies which a government pursues. During the recent controversy, the fact that the Government desisted from invoking section 7 was a wise move since it would have impinged on the RBI’s autonomy and sent out wrong signals both at home and abroad. Relationship between RBI Management and its Board According to the interpretation of the RBI act, both the Central Board and RBI Governor enjoy concurrent powers in almost all the matters. However, some of the members of the central board are nominated by the Government from various fields including the private sector. This can create a conflict of interest as the decisions taken by the RBI could directly affect their interest as well. Hence, as per the tradition, the Board has so far functioned as an adviser. The Federal Reserve System in US takes decision through the voting of the board, if it finds necessary. However, the nature of relationship which has evolved over a period of time in India between the Board and Governor is a good one, where in the Board has by and large played an advisory role. Conclusion It can be concluded that while the Governor can act on his own, he must listen to what the members feel and the sense of the board must be fully reflected in his actions. The crux of the problem is that the RBI, the board and the government must understand the limits to which they can push. A spirit of accommodation must prevail. Connecting the dots: The nature of relationship between the Government and RBI, and between RBI management and its board must be based on spirit of accommodation, mutual trust and respect. 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) Global Wage Report is released by – World Bank World economic forum International Labour Organisation Amnesty Internattional Q.2) Consider the following statements about G20 It is an international forum for the governments and central bank governors of 20 European countries It operates without permanent secretariat or staff The 2018 G20 summit is held at Buenos Aires, Argentina Select the INCORRECT statements from options given below 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 1 only Q.3) Bachan Singh vs State of Punjab (1980) deals with - Limited power of Parliament to amend the Constitution Harmony and balance between fundamental rights and directive principles Khalistan movement or Sikh separatist movement Capital punishment MUST READ Neighbourhood first? The Hindu Together in an uncertain world The Hindu Cyclone Gaja: Destruction in the delta The Hindu Paris to Katowice Indian Express Terror as commodity Indian Express Temple, then and now Indian Express

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs [Prelims + Mains Focus] - 30th November 2018

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 30th November 2018 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Pakistan’s Prime Minister calls for fresh start Part of: GS Mains II – India and its neighbours; International Relations In news: Pakistan’s Prime Minister Imran Khan called for India to make a fresh start during his term to revive the dialogue process between the two countries. The talks have been stalled on the issue of terrorism for more than a decade. Concern areas: Kashmir has been the bedrock issue between both the nations and has been an unresolved boundary dispute. Terrorism, particularly targeting India which is bred on Pakistani soil is yet another major issue which has mired the relationship. Pending investigations into the 1993 and 2008 Mumbai attacks Pending case against Dawood Ibrahim and Lashkar-e-Taiba chief Hafiz Saeed Attack on the Indian Air Force Base in 2016 (Pathankot) Increased terrorist attacks on security forces and the attack on the Uri Army base camp in September 2016 Kulbushan Jadhav case - a retired Indian Naval officer arrested near the Iran-Pakistan border in Baluchistan region by the Pakistani establishment and accused of espionage by Pakistan. Farmers assemble in Delhi to demand policy change Part of: GS Mains II and III – Farmers/Welfare issue; Agrarian crisis; Agriculture reforms In news: All India Kisan Sangharsh Coordination Committee members and farmers demanded that the – government pass legislation guaranteeing loan waivers and remunerative prices for their crops. The last major farmers’ rally in the capital, organised by the Bhartiya Kisan Union on Gandhi Jayanti, resulted in violent clashes with the police. The farmers are demanding a special session of parliament to ensure minimum crop prices and a nationwide waiver of farm loans amid rising costs of fertilizers and agricultural inputs. Do you know? PM Modi earlier this year approved a 50 per cent return over the cost of production. Still, prices of crops including rice, pulses and oil seeds in some wholesale markets are below the government-set rates. Lower prices, combined with inadequate government purchases, have triggered the protests. The government's procurement agencies, which are mandated to purchase agricultural commodities at guaranteed rates to support prices, buy only a small portion of total output, leaving millions of farmers across the country at the mercy of middlemen. Report cards to Teachers based on the performance of the students Part of: GS Mains II – Education reforms; Government schemes and policies In news: Karnataka government is all set to send out report cards that grade teachers on their performance. The State’s department of primary and secondary education has already prepared personalised report cards for teachers in government and aided schools based on the Secondary School Leaving Certificate (SSLC) results, announced in May 2018. The report card will be based on the subject taught and how the class fared in it in the board exams. Teachers have been scored on a scale of zero to 10. The evaluation also takes into account the number of students the teacher taught that academic year, the pass percentage, and the average marks of the class. The personalised reports also offer suggestions on how teachers can improve their performance. Those who don’t get a good rating have been asked to put in more effort. The move is expected to motivate teachers to prepare their students more rigorously. GST of 18% on tendu leaves: how it will impact tribals Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II and III – Welfare/social issues; government schemes and policies affecting tribals or vulnerable section Quick facts about Tendu Leaves The tendu tree (Diospyros melanoxylon) is found widely across central India. Leaves plucked from its shrubs are used to wrap bidi, the poor man's cigarette. Gathering tendu is labour-intensive and employs millions of tribals. Tendu leaf is the financial lifeline of the tribal people. Many tribals in central India depend of tendu leaf collection for subsistence. They collect the leaves as part of their right defined under the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006. Madhya Pradesh is the biggest Tendu Leaves producing State of India. Tendu tree is endemic to Indian sub-continent. It is found in dry deciduous forests throughout India. Concern: GST imposed on tendu leaves, a Minor Forest Produce (MFP), is 18%. The 18 per cent GST is made up of 9 per cent central GST (CGST) and 9 per cent state GST (SGST). Central tax on the leaf was earlier zero. Now, as the tax is high, the traders who get the tender from state corporations to collect tendu leaves pay even less to the tribals collecting the leaves. The hike in taxation will surely take a toll on the tribals who depend on the leaves for subsistence. Do you know? Minor Forest Produce (MFP) as defined by the Forest Rights Act (FRA) is “all non-timber forest produce of plant origin and includes bamboo, brushwood, stumps, canes, Tusser, cocoon, honey, waxes, Lac, tendu/kendu leaves, medicinal plants and herbs, roots, tuber and the like.” Tribals have the right to procure and sell these products. #MeToo: GoM may review law Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – Government policies and schemes; Social/Women issue In news Group of Ministers (GoM), which was constituted to examine sexual harassment at the workplace, may consider amending the Sexual Harassment of Women and Workplace law to ensure workplace safety. Women and Child Development (WCD) Ministry had also shared its recommendations which include changes to the Sexual Harassment of Women and Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013. The guiding principles for making the amendments would be the Vishaka guidelines. Do you know? The Justice J. S. Verma panel had recommended an employment tribunal instead of an internal committee to probe complaints. About Vishaka guidelines The Vishaka Guidelines was laid down by the Supreme Court in 1997. The guidelines lay the onus on the employer to prevent or deter acts of sexual harassment, apart from “providing resolution, settlement or prosecution of acts of sexual harassment.” Sexual Harassment of Women and Workplace Act was result of Vishaka Guidelines. The Act lays down the duties of an employer: ensuring a safe working place, displaying penal consequences of sexual harassment, creating awareness, as well as facilitating an internal probe. (MAINS FOCUS) NATIONAL TOPIC:General studies 2 Social issues; vulnerable sections of the society Government policies and issues arising out of their design and implementation Without maternity benefits: NFSA and PMMVY Introduction The provision for maternity entitlements in the NFSA is very important for women who are not employed in the formal sector. The PMMVY, however, undermines this provision due to the dilution of the entitled amount and the exclusion criteria. Even in this restricted form, the scheme is yet to reach eligible women as the implementation record has been dismal till date. Difference between National Food Security Act (NFSA) of 2013 and PMMVY Under the National Food Security Act (NFSA) of 2013, every pregnant woman is entitled to maternity benefits of ₹6,000, unless she is already receiving similar benefits as a government employee or under other laws. The PMMVY announced in December 31, 2016 violated the NFSA on 3 grounds - First, the benefits have been reduced from ₹6,000 to ₹5,000 per child. Second, they are now restricted to the first living child. Third, they are further restricted to women above the age of 18 years. Other problems The application process is cumbersome and exclusionary. The compulsory linking of the applicant’s bank account with Aadhaar often causes problems. Further, the PMMVY provides little assistance to women who lose their baby, because the successive payments are made only if the corresponding conditionalities are met. Another problem faced by women is lack of funds and their inability to improve their nutritional intake or even to eat properly during pregnancy. The scheme largely defeats the purpose it is supposed to serve: according to a recent analysis, it excludes more than half of all pregnancies because first-order births account for only 43% of all births in India. Among those who were eligible, a little over half had applied for maternity benefits. Conclusion The PMMVY could help protect poor families from these financial contingencies. The government’s maternity benefit programme must be implemented better and comply with the Food Security Act. Maternity benefits should be raised to ₹6,000 per child at least, for all pregnancies and not just the first living child. Connecting the dots: Briefly examine the maternity benefits available in formal and informal sector in India. (MAINS FOCUS) NATIONAL TOPIC:General studies 2 Protection of primitive tribes Social issues; vulnerable sections of the society Policy interventions and issues arising out of their design and implementation Protect indigenous people Introduction The debates following the recent alleged killing of an American national by the Sentinelese have put the spotlight on the vulnerability of an indigenous community that has lived for thousands of years with little contact with outsiders. The Andaman Trunk Road, among other projects, has cut into the heart of the Jarawa reserve, which has not only disturbed their ecological environment but has also changed their lifestyle and dietary habits and endangered them. Implementation of the various provisions to protect the tribals of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands has been poor. The tribes of Andaman and Nicobar Negrito tribal communities in Andaman - the Great Andamanese, Onge, Jarawa and Sentinelese Mongoloid tribal communities in Nicobar - the Shompen and Nicobarese India’s policy towards Tribals Jawaharlal Nehru’s Tribal Panchsheel Non-imposition : People should develop along the lines of their own genius, and the imposition of alien values should be avoided. Tribal rights in land and forest should be respected. (Example: FRA 2006) Teams of tribals should be trained in the work of administration and development. Introducing too many outsiders into tribal territory should be avoided. (Example: PESA) Tribal areas should not be over administered or overwhelmed with a multiplicity of schemes. Results should be judged not by statistics or the amount of money spent, but by the human character that is evolved. Andaman and Nicobar Islands (Protection of Aboriginal Tribes) Regulation (ANPATR), 1956 This Regulation protected the tribals from outside interference, specified the limits of reserved areas and said no land in a reserved area shall be allotted for agricultural purposes or sold or mortgaged to outsiders. Those violating the land rights of the tribals were to be imprisoned for one year, fined ₹1,000, or both. Policy of non-intervention A committee was set up by the SC after a petition was filed in 1999 proposing to bring the Jarawas in mainstream. The committee recommended protecting the Jarawas from harmful contact with outsiders, preserving their cultural and social identity, conserving their land and advocated sensitising settlers about the Jarawas. 2005 ANPATR was amended; The term of imprisonment as well as the fine increased. 2012 ANPATR amendment ANPATR was amended yet again in 2012, creating a buffer zone contiguous to the Jarawa tribal reserve where commercial establishments were prohibited, and regulating tourist operators. Easing of the Restricted Area Permit Despite India’s domestic policy and the ANPATR, the government in August relaxed the Restricted Area permit for 29 islands in the Andaman and Nicobar, including North Sentinel Island. If the government intendeds to eventually ease these restriction, it could have an adverse impact on indigenous population in the long run. Such commercialisation of tribal spaces could lead to encroachment of land, as we see in other parts of the country. International conventions The Indigenous and Tribal Populations Convention, 1957 of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) insisted on an integrationist approach towards tribal communities, whereas, the 1989 convention of the ILO insisted on a policy of non-intervention. India ratified the 1957 convention but has not ratified the 1989 convention. Problems faced by these tribes The lifestyle and dietary habits of the Jarawa has been drastically changed after the Andaman Trunk Road was constructed, cutting right through the Jarawa reserve. For Jarawas, this had led to the spread of diseases, sexual exploitation, and begging. In spite of the 2005 amendment, videos of commercial exploitation of the Jarawas in the name of “human safaris” were widely reported in the media. Despite all the amendments and provisions, there continue to be numerous reports of civilian intrusion into the Jarawa tribal reserve. Conclusion Government needs to reorient its policies and priorities to protect the indigenous tribes. India needs to sign the 1989 convention of the ILO, and implement its various policies to protect the rights of the indigenous population. It should also make efforts to sensitise settlers and outsiders about them. Connecting the dots: Highlight the regulations and policy of the government towards protection of tribes of Andaman & Nicobar islands. Also throw light on ineffective implementation of these provisions in the light of recent death of an American National. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Note: Featured Comments and comments Up-voted by IASbaba are the “correct answers”. IASbaba App users – Team IASbaba will provide correct answers in comment section. Kindly refer to it and update your answers. Q.1) Which of the following was termed as the ‘Green Gold’ in the Budget 2018-19? Bamboo Electric Vehicles Tendu tree Bonds issued to mobilize funds for Green energy projects Q.2) Consider the following statements These have a parkland landscape. These are found in the rainier areas of peninsula. Transition to thorn forests towards the drier margins. Tendu, palas, amaltas, bel, khair, axlewood, etc. are the common trees of these forests. Which of the following forests is best described by the above given statements?   Semi Evergreen forests Moist Deciduous forests Littoral and swamp forests Dry Deciduous forests Q.3) Consider the following statements: Forests Rights Act (FRA) includes timber in Minor Forest Produce (MFP). TRIFED fixes Minimum Support Price (MSP) for Minor Forest Produce. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both None Q.4) Consider the following statements about ‘Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006’ It grants legal recognition to the rights of traditional forest dwelling communities, partially correcting the injustice caused by the forest laws It gives the community the right to protect and manage the forest It provides for rights to use and/or collect the following ‘Minor forest produce’ Select the correct statements 1 only 1 and 3 1, 2 and 3 2 and 3 MUST READ The case for a progressive international The Hindu Walking the tightrope The Hindu The children left behind Indian Express Breaking unhealthy silos Indian Express Terror in the age of freedom Indian Express The need for reforms in the education sector Livemint China’s ageing problem is a serious threat to growth Livemint

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 120]

UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 120] Archives Q.1) ‘Inclusive Wealth Report 2018’ report is published by It evaluates the capacities and performance of the nations around the world to measure sustainability of economy and wellbeing of their people It is a biennial report led by the UN Environment Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Water Security Indicator Model (WSIM)’ It identifies locations on Earth’s terrestrial surface that are currently or forecast to be experiencing deficits or surpluses of fresh water It is an open-source project developed by International Water Association 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 ‘Hog Deer’ It is an endangered species in the IUCN Red List It is protected under Schedule I of the Indian Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 Select the correct code: 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4) Consider the following statements about ‘Sea of Azov’ It is linked by the narrow Strait of Kerch to the Black Sea It is bounded in the northwest by Ukraine, in the southeast by Russia Select the correct code: 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.5) The term 'Domestic Content Requirement' is sometimes seen in the news with reference to Developing solar power production in our country Granting licences to foreign T.V. channels in our country Exporting our food products to other countries Permitting foreign educational institutions to set up their campuses in our country To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

UPSC Interview Discussion-TRP

UPSC Interview Discussion : Think, Rethink and Perform (TRP)-Day 2

UPSC Interview Discussion: Think, Rethink and Perform; (TRP)- Day 2  ARCHIVES Set 1: Ask these questions to yourself; contemplate and come out with a concrete answer (not to be discussed on this forum). Invest at least 30 minutes on this set of questions. What will be your order of priority in life among the following- money, family, love and success? Why? Will you compromise one over the other. What will a career in the civil services give you from the above? Can you achieve all of them? What if you don’t qualify for the civil services? Will you be able to achieve the above? Do you have a back up plan? Think about it. Set 2: Analyse the following issue: Why does religion still occupy a prominent place in India’s political discourse? Aren’t we as a nation lagging severely on important fronts like health, education, infrastructure etc and yet too concerned about religious feelings getting hurt? What mentality does it reflect? What sort of perception we are creating about India on the global stage? Don’t you think it has always been India’s spiritual belief system that transcends political boundaries and not it its religious orthodoxies? Think about it.

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