IAS UPSC YOJANA & KURUKSHETRA Magazine ‘NOVEMBER’ 2018
Archives Friends, Here we are with the NOVEMBER 2018, edition of Yojana and Kurukshetra. Yojana/Kurukshetra: NOVEMBER 2018 – Download Download Mind Maps - Click here
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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.”
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
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?
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
UPSC Quiz - 2019 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 125]
UPSC Quiz - 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 125] Archives Q.1) ‘Khongjom War’ is associated with which of the following states? Manipur Mizoram Assam Nagaland Q.2) Exercise ‘Hand-in-Hand’ is a bilateral exercise between India and China France Japan Sri Lanka Q.3) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Project Sashakt’ It was proposed by a panel led by PNB chairman Sunil Mehta It seeks to address the bad loans problem in India’s banking sector Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4) ‘OSIRIS-REx mission’ is concerned with Mars Bennu Space Junk International Space Station Q.5) Who of the following called Congress as the party of ‘Bengali Bhadralok’ i.e. Bengali Elite? Bal Gangadhar Tilak Lala Lajpat Rai Sir Syed Ahmad Khan Aurobindo Ghosh To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best IASbaba
Interview Discussion IAS UPSC: Think, Rethink and Perform (TRP)-Day 4
Interview Discussion: Think, Rethink and Perform; (TRP)- Day 4 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. Who is your role model? Which of his/her attributes inspire you? Why don’t you yourself become a role model for others? Isn’t that a fascinating idea? Think about it. Have you ever inspired others with your actions? Try to recall any such incident from your life. Don’t you want to repeat that? Set 2: Analyse the following issue: The CBI has been in news for quite some time for not so good reasons. It appears that politics has got intertwined with the investigation agency with both the ruling dispensation and the opposition trying their luck in a muddle of administrative chaos. The situation warrants immediate remedy else the sanctity of the premiere investigation agency of the country would be lost in the blurry background of corruption and political opportunism. Given a chance to bring about reforms, what suggestions would you give to make the CBI a body unaffected by politics and any sort of external pressure? Or is that even possible? Think.
All India Radio (AIR) IAS UPSC - Statue of unity - A tribute to Ironman
Statue of unity - A tribute to Ironman ARCHIVES Search 31st October, 2018 Spotlight here: http://www.newsonair.com/Audio-Archive-Search.aspx TOPIC: General Studies 1: Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the present significant events, personalities, issues The Freedom Struggle – its various stages and important contributors /contributions from different parts of the country. Post-independence consolidation and reorganization within the country. In News: On the 143rd birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, also known as the ‘Iron Man of India’, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated the ‘Statue of Unity’, dedicated to statesman par excellence. The Statue: On Sadhu Hill Standing at 182 meters in the middle of river Narmada at Kevadia in Gujarat’s Narmada district, the Statue of Unity is the tallest statue in the world- much taller than the 153 metre Spring Temple Buddha in China and almost twice the size of the Statue of Liberty in New York. (remember the places for Prelims) One can have a view of the Satpura and Vindhyachal mountain ranges, which also form the point where Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Maharashtra meet. (Prelims centric fact) Visitors can also get a distant view of the 12-km-long Garudeshwar Reservoir (which will help ensure there is always water around the statue), which is located downstream from the Narmada dam. (Prelims centric – location of the reservoir) Man Behind the Statue: Shri Ram Vanji Sutar, the 93-year-old sculptor. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel The birthday of India`s Iron Man is being observed as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas or National Unity Day since the year 2014. First Deputy Prime Minister of India Widely considered to be the architect of modern India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel played an important role in the integration of all the princely states (especially Hyderabad, Junagadh and Kashmir) into the Indian Union after the British left India in 1947. Provided good governance as an able administrator in diverse fields like modern farming and empowerment of tribal communities Organised peasants from Kheda, Borsad, and Bardoli in Gujarat in non-violent civil disobedience against the British Raj, becoming one of the most influential leaders in Gujarat. He earned the title of “Sardar” after spearheading a no-tax campaign by peasants at Bardoli in Gujarat. He also led the relief and rehabilitation operations when Gujarat was ravaged by floods and worked tirelessly during a plague outbreak in Ahmedabad. He is also remembered as the "patron saint of India's civil servants" for having established the modern all-India services system. “A civil servant cannot afford to, and must not, take part in politics. Nor must he involve himself in communal wrangles. To depart from the path of rectitude in either of these respects is to debase public service and to lower its dignity,” he had cautioned them on April 21, 1947. Acknowledging the monumental contribution of Patel in nation building, Jawaharlal Nehru said, “History will call him the builder and consolidator of new India.” The remarks Patel made during the Quit India Movement are also relevant today. He said: “We have to shed mutual bickering, shed the difference of being high or low and develop the sense of equality and banish untouchability. We have to live like the children of the same father”. Must Read: Role of Sardar Vallabh bhai Patel in Uniting the Nation Connecting the Dots: With great skill and masterful diplomacy and using both persuasion and pressure, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel succeeded in integrating hundreds of princely states with the Indian Union. Discuss. Discuss the contribution of Sardar Patel from unification of the country to creation of all India services.
Daily Current Affairs [IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam] – 6th December 2018
Daily Current Affairs [IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam] – 6th December 2018 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Citizens to get option to opt out of Aadhaar Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II and III – Right to Privacy; Security issues In news: Government is finalising a proposal to amend the Aadhaar Act to give all citizens an option to withdraw their Aadhaar number, including biometrics and the data. This follows the Supreme Court judgment in September that upheld the validity of Aadhaar. In line with the court order, the proposal also seeks to appoint an adjudicating officer to decide whether a person’s Aadhaar-related data need to be disclosed in the interest of national security. Key outcomes of Supreme Court Judgment A Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court had struck down Section 57 of the Aadhaar Act that allows private entities to use the unique number for verification. The Bench also declared that seeking to link it with bank accounts and SIM cards was unconstitutional. The court had also struck down Section 33(2), which allowed disclosure of Aadhaar information for national security reasons on the orders of an officer not below Joint Secretary. It had said an officer above Joint Secretary should consult a judicial officer and together take a call. ‘CO2 levels poised for record high’ Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Environment and Ecology; Pollution In news: According to researchers at the University of East Anglia (UEA) and the Global Carbon Project – Global carbon emissions are set to hit an all-time high of 37.1 billion tonnes of CO2 in 2018. India, the third-highest contributor, is projected to see emissions rise by 6.3% from 2017. The 2.7% projected global rise in 2018 has been driven due to – appreciable growth in coal use sustained growth in oil and gas use Do you know? The Global Carbon Project (GCP) was established in 2001. The organisation seeks to quantify global carbon emissions and their causes. GCP is a core project of IGBP (International Geosphere-Biosphere Programme). Established by the GCP in 2013 the Global Carbon Atlas is a tool for the visualisation of data related to the global carbon cycle. U.N. Climate Change Conference (COP 24) Katowice, Poland will also focus on ways to equitably cut carbon emissions. Concerns: The 10 biggest emitters in 2018 are China, U.S., India, Russia, Japan, Germany, Iran, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, and Canada. The EU as a region of countries ranks third. China’s emissions accounted for 27% of the global total, having grown an estimated 4.7% in 2018 and reaching a new all-time high. Emissions in the U.S., which has withdrawn from its commitment to the Paris Agreement, account for 15% of the global total, and look set to have grown about 2.5% in 2018 after several years of decline. Limiting global warming to the 2015 Paris Agreement goal (keeping the global temperature increase to well below 2°C), would need carbon dioxide emissions to decline by 50% by 2030 and reach net zero by about 2050. Pic: https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2018/12/06/DEL/Delhi/TH/5_07/119594cc_2573994_101_mr.jpg India gets first witness protection scheme Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – Polity and Governance; Government policies and schemes In news: The Supreme Court has put in place a witness protection regime in the country. The scheme 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. SC noted that one of the main reasons for witnesses turning hostile was that they were not given security by the State. Do you know? Under the witness protection scheme – witness protection may be as simple as providing a police escort to the witness up to the courtroom or, in more complex cases involving an organised criminal group, taking extraordinary measures such as offering temporary residence in a safe house, giving a new identity, and relocation to an undisclosed place. The issue of witness protection scheme had cropped up earlier when the top court was hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking protection for witnesses in rape cases involving self-styled preacher Asaram Bapu. Need for such scheme Jeremy Bentham has said that “Witnesses are the eyes and ears of justice.” In a society governed by a Rule of Law, it is imperative to ensure that investigation, prosecution and trial of criminal offences is not prejudiced because of threats or intimidation to witnesses. In cases involving influential people, witnesses turn hostile because of threat to life and property. Witnesses find that there is no legal obligation by the state for extending any security. 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 Miscellaneous ‘Air pollution kills 7 million every year’ – according to report released at the 24th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP24) in Katowice, Poland. (MAINS FOCUS) NATIONAL TOPIC:General studies 3 Environment and ecology: Air pollution Mechanisation of Agriculture and crop diversification Cutting through the smog: Air pollution in North India Introduction Air pollution is a worry especially in north India. Stubble burning is said to be a key factor behind the formation of a dense cover of smog in this part of India though its contribution is less than 20%. Farmers are held responsible for the crisis but what is at fault are the flawed and short-sighted policies of the Central and State governments. Incidents of stubble burning — following the harvest of paddy crop in Punjab and Haryana — cannot be averted by imposing fines, or giving notice or giving farmers, capital subsidy. Instead, the issue requires long-term vision and strategic policy interventions. Reasons for failure for current methods: The sowing of paddy is incentivised in Punjab and Haryana whereby the share of paddy (rice) in the gross cropped area in Punjab has increased from 6.8% in 1966-67 to almost 36.4 % in recent years, while it has increased from 4.97% to 20% in Haryana. The policy of minimum support price for crops, in tandem with their assured procurement and input subsidy, have left farmers with no option but to follow this wheat-paddy rotation which has caused the increase at the cost of other crops such as maize, cotton, oilseeds and sugarcane. Punjab has enacted a water conservation law in 2009 which mandates paddy sowing within a notified period (June instead of earlier practice of May) and a shorter period of sowing days prohibits transplantation before a notified date, which in turn limits the window available for harvesting paddy to between 15 and 20 days. As a result, farmers who are pressed for time to sow wheat and to maintain crop yield, farmers find stubble burning to be an easy and low-cost solution. Haryana and Punjab face labor shortage for removal of stubble and therefore find stubble burning an easier option. The purchase of the ‘happy seeder’ which mechanically removes the paddy stubble adds to the cost incurred by farmers, wherein stubble burning is a much cheaper option. Way forward Government should encourage crop diversification for other crops than paddy and a policy of a ‘price deficiency system’ — as initiated in Haryana and Madhya Pradesh— should be adopted to strengthen the production and marketing of alternative crops. Another option is to replicate the Telangana model of providing farmers an investment support of ₹8,000 per acre each year which can be used for compensating for manual removal or of other methods of removal of stubble. A feasible remedy could lie in the setting up of custom hiring centres or inviting companies to make investments for rental purposes. If the state provides an app-based support system, to rent out tractors and farm implements and earn additional income — there are examples of this in Nigeria and also in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar — it would be akin to the ‘Uberisation of agriculture’. Paddy Straw can be used for biomass generation through usage in biomass power plants, paper and cardboard mills and the government can use geospatial techniques to identify areas where stubble burning is severe and encourage installation of biomass plants at such locations. Connecting the dots: What are the causes of air pollution in Delhi, during winter season? Do you think, further mechanisation of agriculture will reduce the problem caused by stubble burning? NATIONAL TOPIC:General studies 2 Social justice: issues related to poverty and hunger Stunted, wasted: on Global Nutrition Report 2018 Introduction The health, longevity and well-being of Indians improved since Independence, and the high levels of economic growth over the past two-and-half-decades have made more funds available to spend on the social sector. Yet, the real health conditions of children in India present a grim situation according to Global Nutrition Report 2018. Findings of the report The Global Nutrition Index, 2018 has shown that 1/3 of World's stunted children and 1/4 of World's children displaying wasting are in India. As the Global Nutrition Report 2018 points out, this finding masks the wide variation in stunting levels in different parts of the country. While, 70% of the figures for India are localized to North and Central India, South India is having only 20%. Causes of grim nutritional conditions in India Food and freedom go together, and the availability of one strongly influences access to the other. The North South divide of Nutritional map of India shows the important role played by political commitment, administrative efficiency, literacy and women’s empowerment in ensuring children’s health. Among the factors affecting the quantity and quality of nutrition are maternal education, age at marriage, antenatal care, children’s diet and household size. Another issue is that of the quality of nutrition in packaged foods available to children. Going by the report, only 21% of these foods in India were rated as being healthy, based on overall energy, salt, sugar and saturated fat on the negative side, and vegetable, fruit, protein, fibre and calcium as positive factors. The Economic Survey 2017-18 put social services spending at 6.6% of GDP, an insignificant rise after a marginal decline from the 6% band during the previous year to 5.8%. Way forward Social institutions can work to improve nutrition and children’s welfare in free societies, and the absence of hunger enables people to develop their capabilities. Governments should acknowledge the linkages and commit themselves to improved nutritional policies. The national framework to improve nutrition already exists. The Anganwadi Services scheme, which incorporates the Integrated Child Development Services, caters to children up to age six, and to pregnant and lactating women. If it has not worked well in several States, it must be subjected to a rigorous review and targeted interventions for supplementary nutrition made. Now that mapping of malnutrition at the district level is available, as in the Global Nutrition Report, it is incumbent on State governments to address these determining factors. Public awareness: The fact that the global average of processed foods scored only 31% and a peak of 37% in New Zealand indicates that whole foods and cooked meals emerge superior. Conclusion The latest report on stunting and wasting should convince the Centre that it needs to understand the problem better and work with the States to give India’s children a healthy future. India should invest more of its economic prosperity in its welfare system, without binding itself in restrictive budgetary formulations. Connecting the dots: Despite being one of the fastest growing trillion dollar economy, India is home to a third of the world’s stunted children under five and a quarter of the children display wasting. Analyse the causes and suggest some measures. (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) Google Tez is a new digital payment app based on UPI payment. Which of the following statements are correct regarding Google Tez? It permits user to transfer money without requiring the bank account details of recipient. Aadhar verification for payment is mandatory. It does not require money to be stored in app wallet for money transfer. Select the code from following: 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.2) Consider the following statements about ‘Blue-coloured Aadhar card’ Biometric details are not required for this card It will be given to children between 5-15 years of age It will be linked with his/her parent's UID Select the correct statement 1 Only 1 and 2 1 and 3 All of the above Q.3) Consider the following statements regarding the features of Aadhaar Card Biometric Geography Caste Religion Demographic Health Income Which of the given details are not captured while enrolling for Aadhaar Card? 1, 2, 3, 4 and 6 1, 4, 6, and 7 2, 3, 4, 6 and 7 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 Q.4) Consider the following statements about Global Carbon Project (GCP) GCP is a core project of IGBP (International Geosphere-Biosphere Programme). Global Carbon Atlas was established by the GCP. Select the correct statement(s) Only 1 Only 2 Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 MUST READ Colombo’s perceptions The Hindu COP24 Summit: Paying for the climate clean-up Indian Express A Nation Wronged Indian Express Context for the gotra warriors Indian Express Short on nuance Indian Express Climate change: moving talks to action Livemint Maximizing India’s development finance Livemint
UPSC Quiz - 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 124]
UPSC Quiz - 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 124] Archives Q.1) The nation-wide ‘Soil Health Card Scheme’ aims at Expanding the cultivable area under irrigation. Enabling the banks to assess the quantum of loans to be granted to farmers on the basis of soil quality. Checking the overuse of fertilizers in farmlands. Which of the above statements is/are correct? 1 and 2 only 3 only 2 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.2) ‘Peru’ is bordered by Colombia Brazil Bolivia Venezuela Select the correct code: 1, 2 and 3 2, 3 and 4 1, 3 and 4 1 and 3 Only Q.3) ‘Gilets jaunes movement’ is associated with which of the following countries? France Australia Hog Kong Taiwan Q.4) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘ExseedSAT1’ It is an open radio transponder that works on ham radio frequencies It is a CubeSat It was launched in space through the Falcon 9 rocket of SpaceX Select the correct code: 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 1, 2 and 3 Q.5) Who was the author of ‘Gathasattasati’ Gautamiputra shatakarani Hala Krishnadevaraya Bana To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best IASbaba