Nov 28, 2018 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs [Prelims + Mains Focus] - 28th November 2018

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 28th November 2018 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Agriculture Ministry takes back report on impact of demonetization on farmers Part of: GS Mains III – Indian Economy and issues related to it; Social/Welfare issue In news: Earlier, a report submitted by the Union Agriculture Ministry to the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Finance highlighted that – Farmers were badly hit by demonetization, as many were unable to buy seeds without enough money. Demonetisation came at a time when farmers were engaged in either selling their Kharif crops or sowing the Rabi crops. Both these operations needed huge amounts of cash, which demonetisation removed from the market. Even bigger landlords faced a problem such as paying daily wages to the farmers and purchasing agriculture needs for growing crops. However, now, reversing its earlier report, the Union Agriculture Ministry has submitted a fresh report claiming that there was no “adverse impact.” Measles and Rubella vaccination campaign Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – Health and welfare issue; Science Do you know? Measles and Rubella vaccine is administered to all the children group of 9months to 15 years. Measles-rubella (MR) vaccine is given for preventing both measles and rubella diseases in the child. No specific treatment is available for measles and rubella but these diseases can easily be prevented by vaccination. The Government is providing Measles-Rubella vaccine free of cost through its immunization programme. About Measles Measles is a deadly disease. It can lead to following complications - Pneumonia Diarrhoea Other deadly threats The respiratory disease measles remains a leading cause of death among young children, despite the fact that a safe and effective vaccine has been available for 40 years. Measles is an acute illness caused by a virus of the paramyxovirus family. It is one of the most contagious diseases and many children who do not have sufficient immunity contract measles if exposed. During the first few weeks after contracting measles, a child's immune system becomes weakened, and a normal cold or diarrhoea can become a life-threatening illness. About Rubella Rubella infection during pregnancy can cause congenital deformities in newborn baby, such as - Blindness Deafness Mental Retardation Congenital heart disease Rubella is an acute, contagious viral infection. While rubella virus infection usually causes a mild fever and rash illness in children and adults, infection during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester, can result in miscarriage, fetal death, stillbirth, or infants with congenital malformations, known as congenital rubella syndrome (CRS). The rubella virus is transmitted by airborne droplets when infected people sneeze or a cough. Humans are the only known host. There is no specific treatment, but the disease can be prevented by vaccination. HysIS - Hyper Spectral Imaging Satellite Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Science and Technology; Space Missions In news: ISRO to launch its HysIS imaging satellite and 30 other satellites with PSLV-C43 rocket from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. Hyper Spectral Imaging Satellite (HysIS) – is India’s own earth observation satellite The satellite will be put into a polar synchronous orbit, which sets it in motion along the axis that runs along the Earth’s geographic North and South Pole. ISRO PSLV-C43 mission: HysIS satellite objectives HysIS mission is to study the earth’s surface near infrared and shortwave infrared regions of the electromagnetic spectrum. To provide observations within the visible, near infrared and shortwave infrared bands of the electromagnetic spectrum To monitor atmospheric activity and climate change To assist studies of Earth’s magnetic field These observations will have a host of applications, prime among which relate to agriculture, forestry, water management, and coastal patterns. Do you know? HysIS will continue to make observations till 2023, when the mission ends. After this launch, the next big event for the Indian space organisation will be its awaited mission to the moon – Chandrayaan-2 – in early 2019. About PSLV Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) was launched in October 1994, it is the third generation launch vehicle of India. It is the first Indian launched vehicle to be equipped with liquid stages. PSLV has emerged as a workhouse launch vehicle of India with 39 consecutively successful missions by June 2017. This vehicle has launched 48 Indian satellites for customers from abroad. It has also launched Chandrayaan-1 in 2008 and Mars Orbiter Spacecraft in 2013. NASA’s InSight lands on Mars Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Science and Technology; Space Missions In news: NASA’s Mars rover InSight touched down on the Red planet. InSight (Interior Exploration using Seismic Investigations, Geodesy and Heat Transport) is a NASA Discovery Program mission that will place a single geophysical lander on Mars to study its deep interior. It aims to unveil the Red Planet’s inner mysteries, such as its formation. The planet’s core, mantle and crust will be explored allowing scientists to find out more about the formation of the rocky planets in our Solar System and measure its’ tectonic activity. InSight will be the first mission to use a robotic arm to place instruments on the surface of Mars. Do you know? InSight stands for Interior Exploration using Seismic Investigations, Geodesy and Heat Transport. The InSight Lander left Earth on May 5, 2018 and took almost 7-months to get to the Red Planet and finally landed on November 26, 2018. It marked the eighth successful landing on Mars in NASA's history. The spacecraft is NASA’s first to touch down on the earth’s neighbouring planet since the Curiosity rover arrived in 2012. More than half of 43 attempts to reach Mars with rovers, orbiters and probes by space agencies from around the world have failed. Single women seek monthly pension Part of: GS Mains II – Social or women welfare issue In news: National Forum for Single Women’s Rights (NFSWR) – forum representing single women has prepared a charter of demands pitching for enhanced budgetary allocation so that schemes such as monthly pension and benefits for care-givers can be framed for them. The forum has also demanded that the Central government look at issues concerning single women not solely as problems afflicting elderly widows but also widows of all ages as well as unmarried, divorced, separated and abandoned women. Reserve Bank to inject ₹40,000 crore through open market operations (OMOs) Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Indian Economy; monetary policy; open market operations In news: RBI to pump in more liquidity in December by infusing ₹40,000 crore into the system through open market operations (OMOs). It has already infused ₹30,000 crore into the system while the balance ₹10,000 crore will be pumped in through auction. About open market operations Open market operations are conducted by the RBI by way of sale or purchase of government securities (g-secs) to adjust money supply conditions. The central bank sells g-secs to suck out liquidity from the system and buys back g-secs to infuse liquidity into the system. These operations are often conducted on a day-to-day basis in a manner that balances inflation while helping banks continue to lend. The RBI uses OMO along with other monetary policy tools such as repo rate, cash reserve ratio and statutory liquidity ratio to adjust the quantum and price of money in the system. Do you know? When RBI sells government security in the markets, the banks purchase them. When the banks purchase Government securities, they have a reduced ability to lend to the industrial houses or other commercial sectors. This reduced surplus cash, contracts the rupee liquidity and consequently credit creation / credit supply. When RBI purchases the securities, the commercial banks find them with more surplus cash and this would create more credit in the system. Thus, in the case of excess liquidity, RBI resorts to sale of G-secs to suck out rupee from system. Similarly, when there is a liquidity crunch in the economy, RBI buys securities from the market, thereby releasing liquidity. Its worth to note here that the market for government securities is not well developed in India but still OMO plays very important role. (MAINS FOCUS) NATIONAL TOPIC:General studies 2 and 3 Indian constitution: right to property Farmers issues A reinstated right to property will protect the poor Introduction The impoverished farmers who won a million hearts in Mumbai with their quiet dignity are now on their way to New Delhi to make their voice heard outside national Parliament. The list of demands is a long one, which is not surprising given the intensity of rural distress. However, one of their demands shows why it is now time to reinstate the right to property as a fundamental constitutional right. Demand of right over land The farmers from Nashik district of Maharashtra have been demanding that the government should recognize their legal rights over the land they till. Many of the protesters are tribals who have been cultivating land controlled by the forest department. The Forest Rights Act of 2006 seeks to correct a historical wrong cemented during the colonial era. The lack of land rights has ensured that generations of tribal cultivators have got a raw deal from governments as well as banks. Hence the demand for property rights from the marching farmers. Right to property in Indian constitution It is well known that the Indian Constitution originally recognized the right to property as a fundamental right. That right came under attack beginning with the first amendment in 1951. Many of the subsequent laws that undermined property rights were hidden away from judicial scrutiny in the Ninth Schedule. Another big blow came during the epic legal battles after the nationalization of banks in 1969. The Morarji Desai government eventually scrapped the fundamental right to property with the forty-fourth amendment in 1978. In its place came Article 300-A that makes it possible for a citizen to be dispossessed without compensation through an act of legislation. Why right to property was scrapped from fundamental rights? Successive governments chipped away at the right to property by arguing that it was an obstacle in the way of pursuing the social justice agenda embedded in the directive principles of state policy. Consider the issue of farm land. It was very unequally divided when India became an independent country because of the colonial institution of zamindari. The estates kept growing in size as indebted peasants were dispossessed after loan defaults. Think of Do Bigha Zameen, the heart-wrenching 1953 movie directed by Bimal Roy. Even liberals saw the value in land reforms. The implicit assumption all the way till the right to property was removed from the list of fundamental rights was that it was essentially a concern of the rich. The poor had little stake in property rights; in fact, property rights were an obstacle in the battle against mass poverty. Need to reinstate right to property The poor have neither the legal resources nor the political heft to fight laws or administrative orders that allow governments take over their land. The poor do not have enough opportunities to make a living in formal jobs in case they are forcibly separated from their property. There is now a lot of research that shows how property rights help the poor. The security of property provides incentives for a small farmer to invest in his land or a slum dweller to spend on basic infrastructure. The Peruvian economist Hernando De Soto has also shown how secure property rights allow the poor to raise capital by offering the property as collateral to formal lenders. The Odisha state government has recently begun offering formal property rights to slum dwellers. Conclusion Indian political parties have mostly steered clear of making any commitment to a reinstated fundamental right to property, perhaps because of the belief that they would be seen to represent the interests of the rich rather than the poor. It is time to break this misconception. The poor also have a stake in better property rights—from land titling to legal safeguards. Women also need to be equal partners in property. Property rights today are a tool of inclusion rather than exclusion. Connecting the dots: Right to property should be a fundamental right. Do you agree? NATIONAL TOPIC:General studies 2 Issues and policies related to health Ahead on malaria: on reduction in cases in India Introduction India has suffered from a major burden of malaria for decades, with high levels of morbidity and death. But the declining trend of the scourge shows that sustained public health action can eradicate this epidemic. Current status The World Malaria Report 2018 of the World Health Organisation notes that India’s record offers great promise in the quest to cut the number of new cases and deaths globally by at least 40% by 2020, and to end the epidemic by 2030. A lot of that optimism has to do with the progress made by Odisha, one of the most endemic States. Success story of Odisha Odisha through its greater political and administrative commitment - investments in recruiting accredited social health workers, large-scale distribution of insecticide- treated bednets and strategies to encourage health-seeking behaviour, was able to reduce its malaria burden by half in 2017. Malaria cases in Odisha have been coming down steadily since 2003, with a marked reduction since 2008, attributed to greater political and administrative commitment. Issues of resistance One issue that requires monitoring in India is resistance to combination therapy using artemisinin. Recent reports indicate that some patients in West Bengal became resistant to the treatment protocol used for the falciparum parasite, which causes debilitating cerebral malaria and leads to a high number of deaths. This requires close monitoring, although the WHO has changed the treatment policy in some north- eastern States after treatment failure in 2012. Since resistance to treatment has been reported in Myanmar, there is a need for a coordinated approach to rid southern Asia of malaria. Way forward The efforts by Odisha should be replicated in North eastern and elsewhere too further cut the transmission of the disease. Eliminating malaria requires an integrated approach, involving all states especially Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand and West Bengal, which have a higher burden of the disease. Odisha’s experience and example of using public health education as a tool and reaching out to remote populations with advice needs to be replicated elsewhere. Administration should not become complacent and cut funding and efforts toward control measures. Connecting the dots: India has suffered from a major burden of malaria for decades, but the World Malaria Report 2018 of the World Health Organisation shows that sustained public health action can end the epidemic by 2030. Critically 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) HySIS (Hyperspectral Imaging Satellite) is being developed by NASA European Space Agency The China National Space Administration ISRO Q.2) Which of the following statements are correct about Hyspex? Hyperspectral Imaging combines digital imaging as well as spectroscopy. It enables distinct identification of objects and processes by reading individual pixels. The Hyspex camera will work only in infrared spectrum. Select the code from following: 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.3) Consider the following statements about ‘Measles’ It is caused by a virus It is non-contagious  Select the correct code: Only 1 Only 2 Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4) Which of the following statements about Rubella is correct? It is a bacterial infection It is mostly prevalent in pregnant women It often leads to serious complications that include blindness, encephalitis, severe diarrhoea and severe respiratory infections such as pneumonia It can be prevented by vaccination Q.5) Consider the following statement about ‘InSight’ It is a NASA Discovery Programme It will place a single geophysical lander on Mars to study its deep interior It will seek to understand the evolutionary formation of rocky planets, including Earth Select the correct statements 1 and 2 Only 1 Only 1, 2 and 3 1 and 3 Only Q.6) Money supply in the economy is controlled by Finance Ministry Finance commission NITI Aayog RBI Q.7) Through Open Market Operations, the RBI purchases and sells Government securities Gold Forex Shares of PSUs Select the code from following: 1 only 2 and 3 1, 2 and 3 All of the above Q.8) If the RBI implements an expansionist open market operations policy, this means that it will? Buy securities from non-government holders Offer commercial banks more credit in open market Sells G-securities (government securities) in open market Openly announces to the market that it intends to expand its credit Q.9) Which of the following steps can be taken by RBI to check inflation? Increasing Bank rates Buying securities in open market operations Raising Bank Reserve Ratio Rationing of credit Select the code from below: 1, 2 and 3 2, 3 and 4 1, 3 and 4 All of the above MUST READ  Lessons from a tragedy The Hindu  A prescription for the future The Hindu Rulers of law Indian Express  Age of prejudice Indian Express The three bin solution Indian Express The China-Pakistan love affair in troubled waters Livemint  A reinstated right to property will protect the poor Livemint The use of technology in providing healthcare Livemint

Nov 28, 2018 RSTV Video

RSTV - India & World War 1

India & World War 1 Archives 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. History of the world will include events from 18th century such as industrial revolution, world wars In News: Approximately 1.3 million Indian soldiers fought with valour and distinction during world war 1 as part of British Indian Army designated as Indian expeditionary forces the bravery. About 75000 Indian soldiers laid down their life, and their sacrifice in this war was acknowledged by the armies and people of the allied nations on whose soul they fought.   Almost a century after the first world war came to an end, these Indian soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice finally got their due with Vice President Venkaiah Naidu inaugurating the Indian war memorial in France on the occasion of 100th armistice day. Points to remember: World War I ended on November 11, 1918 at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month. This day marks 100 years of the Great War ending. Mahatma Gandhi, who returned to his homeland for good from South Africa in January 1915, supported the war, as he had supported the British in the Boer War. India was wrecked by high taxation – and the high inflation accompanying it – to support the war, while the disruption of trade caused by the conflict led to widespread economic losses. All this while the country was reeling from a raging influenza pandemic – the 1918-’19 Spanish flu was the most devastating in history, with estimates of global mortality ranging from 20 to 50 million, and the focal point of the pandemic was India, with an estimated death toll of between 10 and 20 million. Poverty, disease and suffering all worsened in India during these years. Yet Indian nationalists did not seek to take advantage of Britain’s vulnerability by inciting rebellions, or even disturbances, against the Empire. But nationalists widely understood from British statements that at the end of the war India would receive the Dominion Status hitherto reserved for the "White Commonwealth". Instead, Indians rallied to the British cause: There were no mutinies against the British, though political unrest did continue in Punjab and Bengal. Mahatma Gandhi launched the Champaran satyagraha in 1917 in defence of farmers forced to grow indigo, and the Kheda satyagraha, against iniquitous taxes in Gujarat, followed, but both were protests against specific iniquities and not yet a mass movement against the Empire as a whole. After the War ended – When the war ended in triumph for Britain, India was denied its promised reward. Instead of self-government, the British imposed the repressive Rowlatt Act, which vested the Viceroy's government with extraordinary powers to quell "sedition" against the Empire by silencing and censoring the press, detaining political activists without trial, and arresting without a warrant any individuals suspected of treason against the Empire. Public protests against this draconian legislation were quelled ruthlessly. The worst incident was the Jallianwallah Bagh massacre of April 1919, when Brigadier-General Reginald Dyer ordered his troops to fire without warning on 15,000 unarmed and non-violent men, women and children demonstrating peacefully in an enclosed garden in Amritsar, killing as many as 1,499 and wounding up to 1,137. The fact that Dyer was hailed as a hero by the British, who raised a handsome purse to reward him for his deed, marked the final rupture between British imperialism and its Indian subjects. Sir Rabindranath Tagore returned his knighthood to the British in protest against "the helplessness of our position as British subjects in India". He did not want a "badge of honour" in "the incongruous context of humiliation". Of Forgetfulness and shame, really? When the world commemorated the 50th anniversary of the First World War in 1964, there was scarcely a mention of India's soldiers anywhere, least of all in India. India's absence from the commemorations, and its failure to honour the dead, were not a major surprise. Nor was the lack of First World War memorials in the country: the general feeling was that India, then freshly freed from the imperial yoke, was ashamed of its soldiers' participation in a colonial war and saw nothing to celebrate. The British, however, went ahead and commemorated the war by constructing the triumphal arch known as India Gate in New Delhi. Built in 1931, India Gate is a popular monument, that commemorates the Indian soldiers who lost their lives fighting in the war. Connecting the Dots: “The Indian soldiers who died in the First World War gave their "todays" for someone else's "yesterdays". They left behind orphans, but history has orphaned them as well.” Comment.

Nov 28, 2018 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 118]

UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 118] Archives Q.1) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘hantaviruses’ It is transmitted to humans who inhale the virus from the urine, faeces, or saliva of infected rodents It causes severe and fatal respiratory infections 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 ‘Global Compact for Migration’ It addresses issues such as how to protect migrants and how to integrate them into new countries or how to return them to their original home countries. It is a non-binding "intergovernmental negotiated agreement It is consistent with target 10.7 of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Select the correct code: 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.3) The ‘Data City Programme’ was recently launched by which of the following states? Karnataka Maharashtra Andhra Pradesh Tamil Nadu Q.4) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Peste des petits ruminants (PPR)’ It is a highly contagious viral disease that afflicts goats and sheep It is completely eradicated in India Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.5) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Logix India’ It is being organized by the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) It is aimed at improving logistics cost effectiveness and operational efficiencies for India’s Global Trade Select the correct code: 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

Nov 27, 2018 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs [Prelims + Mains Focus] - 27th November 2018

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 27th November 2018 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Kartarpur corridor can build bridges: Venkaiah Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II & III – India and its neighborhood, infrastructure In news: Founding stone for the four-lane “human corridor” i.e. Kartarpur corridor was laid, it is to be completed by November 23, 2019, in time for Sikh founding Guru Nanak’s 550th birth anniversary. A public rally was organised for the event in the border town of Dera Baba Nanak, just 2 km from the International Border with Pakistan. It is hoped that the corridor would pave the way for peace and greater progress of all people. The corridor will drastically cut down the journey pilgrims have to make from more than 200 km to just 6 km. Do you know? The shrine: The gurdwara in Kartarpur stands on the bank of the Ravi, about 120 km northeast of Lahore. It was here that Guru Nanak assembled a Sikh community and lived for 18 years until his death in 1539. The shrine is visible from the Indian side, Sikhs gather in large numbers for darshan from the Indian side, and binoculars are installed at Gurdwara Dera Baba Nanak. Access to gurdwaras in Pakistan: Sikh jathas from India travel to Pakistan on four occasions every year — for Baisakhi, the martyrdom day of Guru Arjan Dev, the death anniversary of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, and the birthday of Guru Nanak Dev. These Indian pilgrims are given access to all gurdwaras in Pakistan. Public bicycle sharing system launched in Odisha Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II & III – Steps to mitigate Environmental pollution, Public transport infrastructure, use of ICT In news: The Odisha government launched a Public Bicycle Sharing system to reduce traffic congestion, enhance space efficiency, and improve air quality in Bhubaneswar. Capital Region Urban Transport and Bhubaneswar Smart City Limited have come together for the PBS, which has been christened as ‘Mo Cycle’ system. How Public bicycle sharing system will work? More than 300 cyclists took part in the rally from Airport Square to Kalinaga Stadium, to generate public awareness. Initially, 2,000 cycles will be available at about 400 Mo Cycle stations in different locations of the city. According to the BSCL, riders can take cycles from any location and drop them off at any destination of their choice. The operators will coordinate to ensure the redistribution and availability of cycles at high-demand locations. Unlike rentals under the PBS system, cycles stored in a closely spaced network of stations will be made available to riders for short term shared use. This new system would encourage use of the same cycle by multiple riders every day. Users would have to download Mo Cycle application and register for a nominal monthly subscription. The rider can locate the nearest Mo Cycle station and unlock the cycle through Quick Response Code scan. Technology interventions such as GPS and smart locks are an integral part of the system. Big leap in intelligence infrastructure post 26/11 Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Security challenges and their management In news: Ten years after the 26\11 terror strikes, Maharashtra is better placed to benefit from real-time, actionable intelligence, processed through its Central Monitoring System (CMS) and the Lawful Interception System (LIS). As per the International Telecom Union (ITU), Geneva, the State is periodically obtaining a Global Cell Identity (GCI) and Location Area Identity (LAI) from the Telecom Service Providers (TSPs). Detailed data The successful implementation of the CMS with inclusion of the GCI, LAI and location in the Call Data Record (CDR) has enhanced the intelligence collection abilities of the State in the past few years. Implementations of the CMS and LIM have helped agencies get full data without any hindrances from TSPs. The R.D. Pradhan Expert Committee, which probed lapses leading up to the November 26, 2008 terror strikes, had revealed that prior to the attacks, senior officers in the Maharashtra government did not even look at crucial intelligence inputs. Incredible India campaign: Tawang Monastery Part of: GS Prelims and Mains I – Indian heritage and culture In news: The Incredible India campaign has goofed up on Tawang Monastery in Arunachal Pradesh, suggesting the ancient structure was built just three decades ago. About Monastery Known in Tibetan as Gaden Namgyal Lhatse, the Tawang Monastery was built according to the wishes of the 5th Dalai Lama, Ngawang Lobsang Gyatso. It was founded in 1680-81 by a monk named Merag Lodre Gyatso of the Gelug sect after the 4th Dalai Lama gave him a painting of goddess Palden Lhamo to be kept in the monastery. An eight-metre high gilded statue of Lord Buddha dominates the sanctum of the monastery. Local legend has it that China had attacked Tawang in 1962 primarily to extract the secret to eternal youth believed to be buried under the monastery built at about 10,000 ft above sea level. RBI eases ECB hedging norms for companies Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Indian Economy In news: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has eased hedging norms for companies that raise funds through external commercial borrowings (ECB), a move that will lower the cost of hedging. The mandatory hedge coverage has been reduced from 100% to 70% under Track I of the ECB framework. Track I refers to medium-term foreign currency-denominated ECBs with a minimum average maturity of 3-5 years. The move will help reduce costs for companies that raise foreign funds. Do you know? External commercial borrowings (ECBs) are loans in India made by non-resident lenders in foreign currency to Indian borrowers. They are used widely in India to facilitate access to foreign money by Indian corporations and PSUs (public sector undertakings). NASA’s Insight rover heads for 6.5 minutes of terror Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Science and Tech; Space research In news: NASA’s Mars Insight spacecraft landed on Mars. About InSight: Mars Insight’s goal is to listen for quakes and tremors as a way to unveil the Red Planet’s inner mysteries, how it formed billions of years ago, and by extension, how other rocky planets like the earth took shape. The unmanned spacecraft, launched nearly seven months ago, is NASA’s first to attempt to touch down on Mars since the Curiosity rover arrived in 2012. More than half of 43 attempts to reach Mars with rovers, orbiters and probes by space agencies from around the world have failed. NASA is the only space agency to have made it, and is invested in these missions as a way to prepare for the first Mars­bound human explorers in the 2030s. (MAINS FOCUS) INTERNATIONAL TOPIC:General studies 2 India and its neighborhood 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 Along the new Silk Roads: Multilateralism & Trade War Introduction In the context of the onslaught on the multilateralism in the form of on-going trade war, there is inevitable need to promote “Shared” and “Inclusive” multilateralism. In this regard, the impact of China’s BRI on the multilateralism is significant, but there are concerns that in spite of other countries joining BRI, it would always remain a Chinese led project with an underlying ambition to influence the world. BRI- More Inclusive and Shared Multilateralism? China has labeled BRI as a project that would be based on more inclusive and connected multilateralism in order to promote trade integration. However, in spite of the underlying economic objectives, the BRI would always remain political project of china with an agenda to influence the world. China has given its own flavour to BRI by “Sinicising” the concepts of free trade agreements. Normally, the conventional trade agreements are based on sound legal texts. The BRI is not backed by any comprehensive legal framework. It is based on normative framework in the form of general agreements, guiding principles, and declarations etc which are just standards to abide by and are not legally binding. The non-legal framework is deliberately adopted by China to constantly adjust to the changing environment. Further, unlike other conventional trade agreements, China is preparing for domestic resolution of BRI disputes through creation of dedicated branches of the China International Commercial Court. The BRI mobilises support from other institution such as Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, Asian Infrastructure investment Bank (AIIB) etc which are mainly dominated by China. Conclusion The BRI is not a tool for economic integration. On the other hand, RCEP is better equipped to deal with aspects related to trade integration. However, as the global trade has increasingly come under pressure in the recent times, there is possibility that BRI would embrace greater liberalisation goals. Connecting the dots: China's BRI is based on more inclusive and connected multilateralism and would promote trade integration. Critically analyse. NATIONAL TOPIC:General studies 3 Role of external state and non-state actors in creating challenges to internal security Challenges to internal security through communication networks, role of media and social networking sites in internal security challenges Security challenges and their management in border areas; linkages of organized crime with terrorism Various Security forces and agencies Ten years after the Mumbai attack Introduction Terrorism is hardly a post-modern phenomenon. Several of the terror attacks in the 21st century reflect a paradigmatic change in the tactics of asymmetric warfare, and the practice of violence. Today’s attacks carried out in different corners of the world by various terror outfits are very different from those witnessed in the previous century. The tactics employed may vary, but the objective is common, viz. achieving mass casualties and widespread destruction. The 26/11 Mumbai terror attack was the rarest of rare cases, where one state’s resources, viz. Pakistan’s, were employed to carry out a series of terror attacks in a major Indian city. After ten years of the terror attack, it is important to analyse state sponsored terrorism and preparedness of India. Involvement of “deep state” of Pakistan in Mumbai Terror Attacks Deep state refers to unelected shadow government who takes majority of the policy and strategic decision. Thus, deep state is where military, bureaucracy, intelligence community and sometimes even judiciary undermine the writ of an elected government. It’s like having a ‘State within a State' whose influence is hard to overlook. The attack was planned strategically and in advance by the deep state of Pakistan involving the Inter-Services Intelligence Directorate, Pakistani armed forces and involvement of the Pakistani Special Forces in preparing the 10-member fidayeen group who carried out the attack. Steps taken by India In the wake of the terror attack, several steps were initiated to streamline the security set-up. Coastal security was given high priority, and it is with the Navy/Coast Guard/marine police. National Investigation Agency (NIA) - a specialised agency to deal with terrorist offences was set up and has been functioning from January 2009. The National Intelligence Grid (NATGRID) has been constituted to create an appropriate database of security related information. Four new operational hubs for the National Security Guard (NSG) have been created to ensure rapid response to any future terror attacks. The Multi Agency Centre, which functions under the Intelligence Bureau, was further strengthened and its activities expanded. The Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), created in 2002 mandated to collect, collate and evaluate intelligence from other service agencies. The Navy constituted a Joint Operations Centre to keep vigil over India’s extended coastline. New terror threats in the modern world driven by technology Despite streamlining of counter-terrorism measures, it is important to remain vigilant from the terrorist groups. These terrorist groups have resorted to use better and sophisticated technologies, have adopted newer and bolder methodologies and ensure execution of their deeply laid plans with the aid of state-of-the-art weapons and communication system which is difficult to trace. Use of ‘enabled terror’ or ‘remote controlled terror’, where violence can be unleashed guided by a controller thousands of miles away poses a much dangerous world. Thus, internet-enabled terrorism and resort to remote plotting is the new threat. Conclusion As of now, there are no ready-made answers to this new threat operating behind a wall of anonymity and secrecy which is difficult to trace. Terrorism remains a major threat and with terrorism mutating into a global franchise, the threat potential has become greater. Thus, vigilance is important, but remaining ahead of the curve is even more vital in this modern world driven by technology. Connecting the dots: New terror threats have emerged as a result of use of technology. In light of this statement examine the challenges that have emerged as a result of "enabled terror". Also highlight the steps that should be taken to handle the new terror threats. (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 state governments launched a Public Bicycle Sharing system, Maharashtra Karnataka Odisha Tamil Nadu Q.2) In the context of the Kartarpur Corridor, consider the following statements. The gurdwara in Kartarpur stands on the bank of the Ravi. It was here that Guru Gobind assembled a Sikh community and lived for 18 years until his death in 1539. Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) Which of the following statements are correct about International Telecommunication Union (ITU), ITU is the United Nations specialized agency for information and communication technologies It allocates global radio spectrum and satellite orbits. It is an organization based on public-private partnership, headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. Select the correct statements 1 and 2 Only 1 and 3 Only 2 and 3 Only All of the above Q.4) Tawang Monastery is located in which of the following states, Sikkim Himachal Pradesh Arunachal Pradesh None of these Q.5) Consider the following statements about External commercial borrowing (ECBs), External commercial borrowings (ECBs) are loans made by non-resident lenders in Indian currency to Indian borrowers. Public sector undertakings cannot raise loans through ECBs. Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.6) The R.D. Pradhan Expert Committee is related to which of the following, Pathan Kot terror Attack 2016 Mumbai Terror Attack 2008 Gujarat Riots 2002 Indian Parliament Attack 2001 MUST READ Preventing another scuffle The Hindu Legacies crucial for the commons The Hindu Rules for a resolution The Hindu Following a trail of destruction The Hindu Remembering Iravatham Mahadevan The Hindu InSight on Mars: where, how and why Indian Express Margins of New India Indian Express Diplomacy and faith Indian Express

Nov 27, 2018 PIB

IASbaba PIB Weekly : Press Information Bureau – 19th Nov to 25th Nov, 2018

IASbaba PIB Weekly: Press Information Bureau – 19th to 25th November, 2018 ARCHIVES GS-2 Government of India and the World Bank sign $310 million Loan Agreement (Topic: Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate) Why: For Jharkhand Power System Improvement Project to provide reliable, quality, and affordable 24x7 electricity to the citizens of Jharkhand. The Jharkhand Power System Improvement Project will help build new power transmission infrastructure, as well as put in place systems to improve the technical efficiency and commercial performance of the state power sector utilities. The Project will help bring in modern technology solutions such as automated sub-stations, and network analysis and planning tools to provide reliable power supply and enhance customer satisfaction. While a significant portion of the proposed investments are aimed at improving power transmission infrastructure, the Project will also focus on developing institutional capacities of State-owned power transmission and distribution companies and improving their operational performance. Cabinet approves Implementation of the umbrella scheme "Atmosphere & Climate Research-Modelling Observing Systems & Services"(ACROSS)" during 2017-2020: It will be implemented by the Ministry of Earth Sciences through its institutes namely India Meteorological Department (IMD), Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting (NCMRWF), and Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Service(INCOIS). Objective is to provide a reliable weather and climate forecast for betterment of society, the scheme will aim at improving skill of weather and climate forecast through sustained observations, intensive R & D, and by adopting effective dissemination and communication strategies to ensure its timely reach to the end-user of all services like Agro-meteorological Services, Aviation service, Environmental monitoring services, Hydro-meteorological services, climate services, tourism, pilgrimage, mountaineering etc., Setting up of National Facility for Airborne Research (NFAR): The  scheme  will provide  improved weather, climate  and ocean forecast and services, thereby ensuring transfer of commensurate benefits to the various services like Public weather service, disaster management, Agro-meteorological Services, Aviation services, Environmental monitoring services, Hydro-meteorological services, climate services, tourism, pilgrimage, power generation, water management, Sports & adventure etc. Allied and Healthcare Professions Bill, 2018: For regulation and standardisation of education and services by allied and healthcare professionals. The Bill provides for setting up of an Allied and Healthcare Council of India and corresponding State Allied and Healthcare Councils which will play the role of a standard-setter and facilitator for professions of Allied and Healthcare. Major Impact, including employment generation potential: Bring all existing allied and healthcare professionals on board during the first few of years from the date of establishment of the Council. Opportunity to create qualified, highly skilled and competent jobs in healthcare by enabling professionalism of the allied and healthcare workforce. High quality, multi-disciplinary care in line with the vision of Ayushman Bharat, moving away from a 'doctor led' model to a 'care accessible and team based’ model. Opportunity to cater to the global demand (shortage) of healthcare workforce which is projected to be about 15 million by the year 2030, as per the WHO Global Workforce, 2030 report. Allied and Healthcare Professionals (A&HPs) constitute an important element of the health human resource network, and the skilled and efficient Allied and Healthcare Professionals (A&HPs) can reduce the cost of care and dramatically improve the accessibility to quality driven healthcare services. MoU between India and Tajkistan on Cooperation on Youth Matters: To strengthen and encourage cooperation on youth matters with Tajikistan through participation in events and activities organized by either side, information and knowledge sharing, and youth exchanges. MoU with Mauritius on Consumer Protection and Legal Metrology: Help in expanding cooperation in the field of consumer protection, and will provide an institutional mechanism for exchange of information and derive mutual benefits from development taking place in both the countries. Promote inclusive sustainable and resilient development in the areas of Consumer Protection & Legal Metrology to deal with new challenges such as misleading advertisement, telemarketing, multi-level marketing, e-commerce etc. Ensure traceability of national and international standards, thereby developing new areas of expertise that may facilitate in tackling new challenges. Periodical exchange of information and training programme will ensure gainful expertise, for good governance and in fighting consumer vulnerability. Cabinet apprised of Agreement between India and Uzbekistan on Cooperation in the field of Science, Technology and Innovation: will open a new chapter in bilateral relations, as both sides will now leverage complementary strengths spurred by a significant convergence of mutual interests in science and technology MoU between Atal Innovation Mission, India and Fund "Talent and Success", Russia for promotion of science & technology: The MoU will facilitate promotion of science & technology, strong foundation to the collaborative work through exchange of students, teachers, researchers and scientists between India and Russia. GS-3 India gets UN Environment award for combating transboundary environmental crime United Nation Environment has awarded Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB), Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India with Asia Environment Enforcement Awards, 2018 for excellent work done by the Bureau in combating transboundary environmental crime. WCCB has adopted innovative enforcement techniques that have dramatically increased enforcement of transboundary environmental crimes in India. Notably it has developed an online Wildlife Crime Database Management System to get real time data in order to help analyze trends in crime and devise effective measures to prevent and detect wildlife crimes across India. This system has been successfully used to analyse trends, helping put in preventive measures as well as for successfully carrying out operations such as Operation SAVE KURMA, THUNDERBIRD, WILDNET, LESKNOW, BIRBIL, THUNDERSTORM, LESKNOW-II along with other enforcement agencies resulting in the arrest of 350 wildlife criminals and huge seizures of Tiger/Leopard Skin/bones and other trophies, Rhino Horn, Elephant Ivory, turtles/tortoises, Mongoose raw hairs as well as Mangoose hair bruises, protected birds, Marine products, live Pangolin as well as its scales, deer antlers etc. across all the states. In order to involve the public in the fight against wildlife crime, WCCB has also developed a scheme to enrol willing persons as WCCB Volunteers. The Asia Environment Enforcement Awards publicly recognize and celebrate excellence in enforcement by government officials and institutions/teams combating transboundary environmental crime in Asia. The awards are given to outstanding individuals and/or government organizations/teams that demonstrate excellence and leadership in enforcement of national laws to combat transboundary environmental crime in one of the following eligibility criteria areas: collaboration; impact; innovation; integrity and gender leadership. Please Note World Boxing Championships: Mary Kom wins record sixth gold medal Celebration of Milad-un-Nabi: Birthday of the Prophet 19th November: World Toilet Day 21st November: World Fisheries Day MWCD links Sexual Harassment Complaints Portal 'SHe-Box' to all the Central Ministries, Departments and 653 districts across 33 States/Union Territories: SHe-Box portal is an effort to provide speedy remedy to women facing sexual harassment at workplace. With the linking of the portal to central and state governments, once a complaint is submitted to the portal, it will be directly sent to the section of the employer concerned. Through this portal, WCD as well as the complainant, can monitor the progress of the inquiry. This is a proactive step taken by the WCD Ministry in the wake of the worldwide campaign #MeToo, where women have related their experience of facing sexual harassment and abuse at workplace. Launch of AirSewa 2.0 web portal: To provide a superior user experience with enhanced functionalities -Major improvements include features such as secure sign-up and log-in with social media, chatbot for travellers support, improved grievance management including social media grievances, real-time flight status and details flight schedule. 26th General Conference on Weights & Measures: The 26th CGPM meeting was very special and historic as the members have voted for the redefinition of 130 years old “Le grand K – the SI unit of kg” in terms of the fundamental Planck’s constant (h). The new definitions will come into force on 20 May 2019. General Conference on Weights and Measures (CGPM): highest international body of the world for accurate and precise measurements. The CGPM comprises 60 countries including India and 42 Associate Members. The International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM), the main executive body of CGPM has the responsibility of defining the International System of Units (SI). Industrial Park Rating System By the Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion (DIPP) Manufacturing has emerged as one of the high growth sectors in India and it has moved 23 places up in the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business (EODB-2019) and achieved rank 77 out of 190 countries. In order to ensure that India moves into the top 50 countries in Ease of Doing Business the Ministry has undertaken this exercise in studying infrastructure across states and in 3354 industrial clusters in order to assess quality of infrastructure in industrial parks. Will be a useful tool for policy makers and investors at the click of a button. 3000 parks are on the database and the industrial parks have been rated on 4 points: internal infrastructure, external infrastructure, business services and facilities and environment, safety management. Industrial Information System (IIS): To optimise resource utilisation and enhance the efficiency of the manufacturing sector – the portal serves as a one-stop solution to the free and easy accessibility of all industrial information including availability of raw material – agriculture, horticulture, minerals, natural resources, distance from key logistic nodes, layers of terrain and urban infrastructure. Report on existing SEZ policy of India By Baba Kalyani led committee Objectives To evaluate the SEZ policy and make it WTO compatible Suggest measures for maximizing utilisation of vacant land in SEZs Suggest changes in the SEZ policy based on international experience Merge the SEZ policy with other Government schemes like coastal economic zones, Delhi-Mumbai industrial corridor, national industrial manufacturing zones and food and textiles parks. Observation If India is going to become a USD 5 trillion economy by 2025 then the current environment of manufacturing competitiveness and services has to undergo a basic paradigm shift. The success seen by services sector like IT and ITES has to be promoted in other services sector like health care, financial services, legal, repair and design services. The Government of India has set a target of creating 100 million jobs and achieving 25% of GDP from the manufacturing sector by 2022, as part of its flagship ‘Make in India’ programme. Furthermore, the Government plans to increase manufacturing value to USD 1.2 trillion by 2025. While these are ambitious plans to propel India into a growth trajectory, it requires evaluation of existing policy frameworks to catalyse manufacturing sector growth. At the same time, policy needs to be compiled with the relevant WTO regulations. Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF) This fund will create employment opportunities to over 9.40 lakhs fishers/ fishermen/ fisher folks and other entrepreneurs in fishing and allied activities and attract private investment in creation and management of fisheries infrastructure facilities. Help in the creation of fisheries infrastructure facilities both in marine and inland fisheries sectors, which would boast fish production and help achieve target of Rs 15 million tonne by 2020 set under Blue revolution. FIDF aims to achieve a sustainable growth of 8 % to 9 % in a move to augment fish production to the level of about 20 million tonnes by 2022-23. World Fisheries Forum (WFF) was established to advocate a global mandate of sustainable fishing practices and policies. Personalities in News Guru Nanak Founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus Guru Nanak's words are registered in the form of 974 poetic hymns in the holy text of Sikhism, the Guru Granth Sahib, as a collection of verses recorded in Gurmukhi. The fundamental beliefs of Sikhism include faith and meditation on the name of the one creator, unity of all humankind, engaging in selfless service, striving for social justice for the benefit and prosperity of all, and honest conduct and livelihood while living a householder's life. Guru Teg Bahadur The ninth of ten Gurus of the Sikh religion Guru Tegh Bahadur resisted the forced conversions of Kashmiri Pandits and non-Muslims to Islam, and was publicly beheaded in 1675 on the orders of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in Delhi for himself refusing to convert to Islam. Rani Lakshmibai Queen of the princely state of Jhansi in North India currently present in Jhansi district in Uttar Pradesh, India One of the leading figures of the Indian Rebellion of 1857 and became a symbol of resistance to the British Raj for Indian nationalists. She was named Manikarnika and was nicknamed Manu. After the death of the Maharaja in November 1853, because Damodar Rao (born Anand Rao) was an adopted son, the British East India Company, under Governor-General Lord Dalhousie, applied the Doctrine of Lapse, rejecting Damodar Rao's claim to the throne and annexing the state to its territories. She defended Jhansi against British troops when Sir Hugh Rose besieged Jhansi on 23 March 1858. A number of patriotic songs have been written about the Rani. The most famous composition about Rani Lakshmi Bai is the Hindi poem Jhansi ki Rani written by Subhadra Kumari Chauhan. Indira Gandhi An Indian politician, stateswoman and a central figure of the Indian National Congress. She was the first and, to date, the only female Prime Minister of India. Indira Gandhi was the daughter of Jawaharlal Nehru, the first prime minister of India. She served as Prime Minister from January 1966 to March 1977 and again from January 1980 until her assassination in October 1984 (assassins blamed her for the action code-named Operation Blue Star), making her the second longest-serving Indian Prime Minister after her father. She went to war with Pakistan in support of the independence movement and war of independence in East Pakistan, which resulted in an Indian victory and the creation of Bangladesh, as well as increasing India's influence to the point where it became the regional hegemon of South Asia. Citing fissiparous tendencies and in response to a call for revolution, Gandhi instituted a state of emergency from 1975 to 1977 where basic civil liberties were suspended and the press was censored. Widespread atrocities were carried out during the emergency. In 1980, she returned to power after free and fair elections. Quotes Vice President of India, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu On Mahatma Gandhi Mahatma Gandhi is one of the greatest revolutionaries the world has ever seen, only his revolutions were bloodless and peaceful Gandhiji’s principles of liberty, dignity and equality were not limited by space and time, they have universal applicability and timeless value. He preached peace, non- violence, tolerance and harmony, and in the process, miraculously inspired India’s great struggle for freedom and gave new impetus to civil rights movements all over the world The designing and implementing programs and policies for development should be done by keeping the vision articulated by Mahatma Gandhi for an India free from poverty, discrimination and social evils in mind. Policy makers of India have to place gender equality and women’s empowerment at the centre of our development agenda Antyodaya or the uplifting of the poorest, most deprived groups of people, was a mission close to the Mahatma’s heart. Gandhiji's idea of development was of Sarvodaya, the development of all through Antyodaya. His philosophy of Antyodaya influenced leaders like Shri. Deen Dayal Upadhyay On Education India had undertaken a long and arduous, yet rewarding journey in the field of education, from the “Guru –Shishya parampara” of learning under the shadow of a tree in the ancient times, to becoming the third largest in the world in the field of higher education. There is a need to re-engineer our entire education system. ‘One size fits all’ approach followed by us so far will not take us anywhere and young people should be given the space to think freely. We cannot keep forcing the same syllabus on a student who excels in Science and a student who is a savant in music. Only half the time of a student should be spent in classrooms the rest should be spent in the community, in the playground, in nature and in open air to ensure balanced education. On balance of power between executive, judiciary and legislature Encroachment by one organ into the domain of another would set bad precedents and weaken the institutions. There has been no major conflict or friction among the three organs and this mutual respect for each other’s powers, roles and responsibilities has acted as a fulcrum in strengthening our democracy Justice Krishna Iyer, in 2007 had stated: “There is a case today for amity among the trinity of state instrumentalities and better coordination among them in civilizing the justice process. More coordination among the troika in civilizing the justice process is welcome.” Declaring that the institutional structures established over the years were intended to translate the vision of our Constitution-makers into tangible reality, the Vice President observed that they needed to be constantly nourished through a far-sighted, liberal leadership.    On Science & Technology Advancement of Science and Technology and an inclusive approach to development is crucial in addressing challenges such as poverty, illiteracy, gender discrimination and others Young scientists should find solutions to the present and emerging challenges faced by the world such as climate change, global warming, sustainable development, clean energy and water and diseases. Only science can throw up solutions for the present and emerging problems in the years to come. The onus lies on the shoulders of the young scientific community to look for a way out for such pressing tribulations Vice President appealed to various corporate bodies and industries to promote scientific research in the country in a big way by creating an exclusive corpus for encouraging innovative R & D projects and disruptive technologies that could provide long-lasting answers to problems faced by the people. At the same time, he also called for enhanced investments in Science & Technology to support innovations which would address issues relating to agriculture, environment, health, housing, clean drinking water and security, among others. On the workings of the State with Centre States must focus on long term economic model for the betterment of the people and must not settle for short-term populist measures. The relationship between the states and the centre must be built on trust, transparency and mutual respect. Both parties should practice openness and should not be limited by narrow political divisiveness. There is an agenda greater than politics before all of us, the agenda of taking development to the last man, the goal of ensuring Antyodaya. Federals should not end at door steps of State capitals, they must reach to villages. Political differences must end with the elections and there after the ruling party must not be bogged down by dilatory tactics and the opposition parties must be given the space to offer constructive criticism in the legislature. A measure of accommodative openness must be practiced by both the centre and the states if we were to build a strong team India where every voice has its own space. Federalism, cultural & ethnic pluralism gave country's political system the much needed agility, the continuation of the same requires not simply federalism, but cooperative and constructive federalism. Cooperative federalism has been India’s mantra for centre-state unity, cohesion and harmony and there was every need to continue what the unifier of India, Sardar Patel had said. The spirit of cooperative federalism inspired Sardar Vallabhai Patel's intelligent and proactive political manoeuvring by which he successfully persuaded the 492 princely states to join the Indian Union, all the while successfully maintaining the unity and integrity of the nation.

Nov 27, 2018 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 117]

UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 117] Archives Q.1) ‘Greenhouse Gas Bulletin’ is published by World Meteorological Organization World Economic Forum UN Environment Climate Vulnerable Forum Q.2) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘World Meteorological Organization (WMO)’ It is a specialized agency of the United Nations It is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland 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 ‘Stratospheric Aerosol Injection (SAI)’ It could limit the effect and impact of climate change due to rising levels of greenhouse gases It involves injection of all the inert gases Select the correct code: 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4) The ‘Bo Tribe’ was indigenous to Andamans Haiti Hawaii Papua New Guinea Q.5) ‘Warsaw International Mechanism’ is associated with Climate Change Disaster Risk Reduction Proliferation of missile and unmanned aerial vehicle technology Chemical and biological weapons To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

Nov 27, 2018 UPSC Interview Discussion-TRP

UPSC Interview Discussion : Think, Rethink and Perform (TRP)-Day 1

UPSC Interview Discussion: Think, Rethink and Perform; (TRP)- Day 1  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 do you want to become? Why do you want to join civil services? If you qualify the civil services examination, would you become what you want to become? Set 2: Analyse the following issue: The #Metoo movement has shaken the conscience of the society as a collective and forced us to rethink the fundamentals on which our society functions. That women suffer discrimination and abuse was never a hidden fact but the way in which the flurry of horror stories have come up, it also reflects upon the distorted psyche of men in power. However, what turns out to be the more worrying aspect of the movement is that it might further shrink the space for women. As more and more women come out of the vault and share their stories, several institutions have started to close their doors for women. There are chances that the #Metoo movement becomes a roadblock for many aspiring women in the future. Do you agree with this assessment? Share your views and substantiate with suitable reasoning.         

Nov 26, 2018 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs [Prelims + Mains Focus] - 26th November 2018

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 26th November 2018 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Self-defence: Kerala village set to become first local body to train all its women Part of: GS Mains II – Social issue; Women empowerment; Government schemes and policies In news: Kangazha village in Kottayam (Kerala) is set to earn the distinction of having all its women aged 10-60 trained in self-defence — a first for any local body. Launched as part of the Nirbhaya scheme in April 2017, the project has so far covered over 7,800 women and is slated to include the remaining 2,000-odd soon. Kerala state had also earned distinction because of its unique of community service model – Kudumbashree About Kudumbashree Launched by Government of Kerala in 1998, it was envisioned as a part of the People’s Plan Campaign and local self-governance, with women at the centre of it. Aim: To wipe out absolute poverty from state through concerned community action under the leadership of local self-government Employee has right to resign, says Supreme Court Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – Role of Judiciary; Fundamental Rights; Polity In news: To resign is a right of an employee and he cannot be forced to continue, the Supreme Court has said in a recent order. An employee cannot be compelled to serve in case he is not willing “until and unless there is some stipulation in the rules or in the terms of appointment or disciplinary proceedings is pending or contemplated which is sought to be avoided by resigning from the services.” Tiger Reserves/National Parks in news: Dudhwa Tiger Reserve and Bhitarkanika National Park Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Environment and Biodiversity; Animal conservation; Protected Areas In news: Dudhwa Tiger Reserve Dudhwa Tiger Reserve is a protected area in Uttar Pradesh. It comprises the Dudhwa National Park, Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary and Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary. The protected area is home for tigers, leopards, Asiatic black bears, sloth bears, Swamp deer, rhinoceros, elephants, cheetal, hog deer, barking deer, sambar, wild boar and hispid hare. It shares the north-eastern boundary with Nepal and hence Dudhwa Tiger Reserve and border security agency Sashastra Seema Bal have joined hands to provide security to Dudhwa forests and its rich wildlife. In news: Bhitarkanika National Park Bhitarkanika National Park : : Odisha The Bhitarkanika National Park is one of the largest habitats of endangered estuarine crocodiles in the country . It is a prominent heronry (breeding ground for migratory birds) of the State. About Saltwater crocodile The saltwater crocodile, also known as the estuarine crocodile,  is the largest of all living reptiles, as well as the largest riparian predator in the world. As its name implies, this species of crocodile can live in marine environments, but usually resides in saline and brackish mangrove swamps, estuaries, deltas, lagoons, and lower stretches of rivers. They have the broadest distribution of any modern crocodile, ranging from the eastern coast of India throughout most of Southeast Asia and northern Australia. IUCN status: Least Concerned Do you know? In India, the BNP, the Sundarbans and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands are the prime habitats of the saltwater crocodile. Andaman & Nicobar Islands: home to a tenth of India’s fauna species Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Environment and Biodiversity; Animal conservation; Protected Areas In news: Andaman & Nicobar Islands, which comprises only 0.25% of country’s geographical area, has 11,009 species, according to a publication by the Zoological Survey of India. Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) has for the first time come up with a database of all faunal species found on the island, putting the number at 11,009. ZSI report highlighted that - tourism, illegal construction and mining are posing a threat to the islands’ biodiversity, which is already vulnerable to volatile climatic factors. Do you know? The Narcondam hornbill, its habitat restricted to a lone island; the Nicobar megapode, a bird that builds nests on the ground; the Nicobar treeshrew, a small mole-like mammal; the Long-tailed Nicobar macaque, and the Andaman day gecko, are among the 1,067 endemic faunal species found only on the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and nowhere else. The population of the islands, which includes six particularly vulnerable tribal groups (PVTGs) — Great Andamanese, Onge, Jarawa, Sentinelese, Nicobarese and Shompens — is not more than 4 lakh. In a recent development, the Government of India relaxed the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) norms for some foreign nationalities notified under the Foreigners (Restricted Areas) Order, 1963, to visit 29 of its inhabited islands, till December 31, 2022. This has triggered further concerns of increased anthropogenic pressures over the islands’ ecosystem. Of the ten species of marine fauna found on the islands, the dugong/sea cow, and the Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin, are both classified as Vulnerable under the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) Red List of Threatened Species. Among the 46 terrestrial mammalian species found, three species have been categorised as Critically Endangered — Andaman shrew (Crocidura andamanensis), Jenkin’s shrew (C. jenkinsi) and Nicobar shrew (C. nicobarica). Five species are listed as Endangered, nine species as Vulnerable, and one species as Near Threatened, according to the IUCN. Among birds, endemism is quite high, with 36 among 344 species of birds found only on the islands. Many of these bird species are placed in the IUCN Red List of threatened species under the Wildlife Protection Act (WPA). Another unique feature of the islands’ ecosystem is its marine faunal diversity, which includes coral reefs and its associated fauna. In all, 555 species of scleractinian corals (hard or stony corals) are found in the island ecosystem, all which are placed under Schedule I of the WPA. Animal in news: Amur falcon Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Environment and Biodiversity; Animal conservation About: Amur falcon is a small raptor of the falcon family. It breeds in south-eastern Siberia and Northern China before migrating in large flocks across India and over the Arabian Sea to winter in Southern Africa. The raptor (bird of prey) — the size of a pigeon — makes its home in Nagaland, flying a staggering 22,000 km from there to South Africa, then onto Mongolia and back to Nagaland. The bird has one of the longest and most fascinating migratory paths in the avian world. The falcon breeds in south-eastern Siberia and north-eastern China, where the Amur River divides the Russian Far East and China. Pic: https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2018/10/29/DEL/Delhi/TH/5_07/1a7c222d_2490893_101_mr.jpg Do you know? It is a small raptor, of the size of a pigeon. It covers one of the largest migratory distances from Mongolia and Russia to South Africa. It is not a critically endangered species and is found in large numbers. However, due to indiscriminate killing, their numbers are rapidly coming down. It is considered as a delicacy in Nagaland and widely hunted and sold in the local market. The Centre decided to develop Doyang Lake in Nagaland, famous as a roosting site for longest travelling raptors Amur Falcons, as an eco-tourism spot for bird-watchers. Regional Integrated Multi-Hazard Early Warning System (RIMES) Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Disaster Management; International bodies In news: Regional Integrated Multi-Hazard Early Warning System (RIMES) for Africa and Asia, a 45-nation international organisation on disaster warning, has termed ‘Titli’, the severe cyclonic storm that devastated Odisha in October, as ‘rarest cyclone’. The UN-registered organisation said: Considering the history of cyclone tracks, no synthetic track projection captures the Titli type of cyclones. The forecast information available lacks actionable early warning information such as no indication of occurrence of secondary hazards, including landslides far away from the coasts. The RIMES has recommended that a detailed risk assessment has to be carried out for Odisha to understand the risks in the light of the Titli devastation. Do you know? Earlier, India Meteorological Department had called the formation of Titli as a ‘rarest of rare’ occurrence. Important value additions About Regional Integrated Multi-Hazard Early Warning System (RIMES) The RIMES is an intergovernmental body registered under United Nations. It was established registered with UN in 2009. It is owned and managed by 45 collaborating countries in Asia Pacific and Africa Region. India is chairman of the body. It operates from its regional early warning centre located at campus of Asian Institute of Technology in Pathumthani, Thailand. It has evolved from efforts of countries in Africa and Asia in aftermath of 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. RIMES caters to differential needs and demands of its Member States by enhancing capacities for end-to-end multi-hazard early warning, in particular: Hazard monitoring, detection, analysis, prediction, and forecasting Risk assessment Potential impact analysis Generation of tailored risk information at different time scales Risk communication Application of tailored risk information in decision-making Miscellaneous: Vetiver – also called as ‘the wonder grass’ of Tamil Nadu   Vetiver has gained popularity in the State for its wide range of applications in the pharma and cosmetic industries, besides anti-soil erosion properties. It has huge global demand in the aromatic industry. The grass is popular for its quality to combat soil erosion and absorb carbon dioxide, thus erasing carbon footprints. Vetiver is ideal for the long coastline, as it is suited for sandy soil. Its moisture retention property makes vetiver a natural choice for soil conservation and replenishment of ground water. It is ideal for dry land cultivation using organic farming practices. Another quality of vetiver is that it is an anti-depressant. (MAINS FOCUS) 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 Looking beyond the optics: India – Vietnam relations Introduction President Ram Nath Kovind visited Vietnam. Vietnam is a close ‘ally’ of India for over 70 years, and not limited to official diplomatic ties. Vietnam is critical for India’s foreign policy at the regional and systemic levels. There is a need to understand how Vietnam has calibrated its domestic and foreign policy shifts and where India’s relevance can fit into these policy changes. Growing Vietnam Vietnam's Doi Moi policy, a political and economic renewal campaign started in 1986. Since then Vietnam has made dramatic strides. Today it is a rapidly growing, regional economic giant, showing both dynamism and pragmatism in its calculations. While earlier it imported agricultural products, today it is a major exporter. Agricultural competence has furthered Vietnam’s entry into the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). The Vietnam National Assembly ratified the CPTPP, asserting its growing economic impact globally, with exports increasing to approximately $240 billion for the year 2018. Membership to the CPTPP will boost Vietnam’s economic growth, from 6.8 % in 2017-18, by a further 1.1% to 3.5% by 2030. India is focused on furthering cooperation with Vietnam in agriculture and innovation-based sectors, pushing the potential for increasing bilateral trade to $15 billion by 2020. Common ground of health An area of potential convergence for both Vietnam and India is health care. The National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam highlighted the importance of linking economic growth to universal health care, whereby 80% population would be covered by health insurance. India too has been focusing on the need to deliver accessible and affordable health insurance to weaker sections of society. With Indonesia ratifying the India-ASEAN Services agreement, India is a step closer to signing the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, bringing India to the forefront of the services sector globally. A potential area of convergence in the realm of health care through joint public-private partnership agreements can be explored by the two countries. Vietnam's foreign policy Internationally, Vietnam’s foreign policy is characterised by ‘multidirectionalism’, which addresses regional asymmetries of the power balance by engaging across a broad spectrum of states to achieve its interests. Asymmetrical power structure in the region, offset by the rise of China, is bringing regional and extra-regional states together to address the shifts in the normative order. Within this context, Vietnam even normalised relations with the U.S., its former opponent. Security concerns Today there is increasing commonality of security concerns between Vietnam and its ASEAN partners — as well as with Australia, India, Japan and the U.S., particularly in the areas of maritime security and adherence to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. India also referred ‘rules based order in the Indo-Pacific’, reiterating India’s own concerns over troubled maritime spaces. The two countries have planned a bilateral level maritime security dialogue in early 2019. Focus on sub-regionalism As ASEAN continues to focus on its centrality in the region, there will undoubtedly be shifts in how smaller members of ASEAN perceive the centrifugal forces of China’s rise. Vietnam has helped to mitigate these by focussing on both sub-regionalism and regionalism as the core of its priorities. India too looks at both sub-regionalism and regionalism as priority avenues to pursue its foreign policy. The India-Vietnam Joint Statement of March 2018 reiterates the focus given to sub-regionalism and the Mekong Ganga Cooperation framework. Another area is emerging in the CLV, or Cambodia-Laos-Vietnam growth triangle sub-regional cooperation, bringing these three countries together. Way forward India and Vietnam can jointly explore the potential for enhancing capacity building and providing technical assistance and training within sub-regional groupings. In the ‘cooperation model’, India offers providing choices and opportunities for its friends. This model highlights India’s willingness to address issues on which increasing synergies need to evolve. One such area where convergence is likely, but has been held back due to individual preference, is the $500 million line of credit offered to Vietnam. Both India and Vietnam possess the capacity to find compatibility in areas promoting defence cooperation and infrastructure simultaneously. Vietnam’s role as country coordinator for India in ASEAN will come to a close in 2018. While the ties have progressed under the Look East and Act East Policies, going forward they need to factor in pragmatism, helping relations to move forward. Connecting the dots: Vietnam is crucial to India’s Look East Policy. Critically comment. (MAINS FOCUS) SOCIETY/TRIBAL ISSUE TOPIC:General studies 1&3 Geography and society (Tribes, vulnerable sections of the society) Health and related issues Tourism Do not disturb this Andaman Island Introduction ‘Civilisation’ has destroyed the aboriginals of Andaman & Nicobar. The death of an interloper on North Sentinel Island underlines the threat to the 55,000-yr-old sovereignty of the Islands’ last tribe standing. After 12 years, the Sentinelese have again rejected external contact in the most emphatic way possible. [caption id="attachment_44402" align="aligncenter" width="550"] Map locating North Sentinel Island where an American missionary killed by a tribe if hunter-gathers on Wednesday.[/caption] https://images.indianexpress.com/2018/11/north-sentinel-island-759.jpg Free in spirit and faith Chau apparently went to preach Christianity to the Sentinelese. Missionaries have been historically unwelcome in the Andamans, and the tribes of the Islands have resisted every occupation force with bows and arrows. The Great Andamanese fought the Battle of Aberdeen against the British in 1859, and were enslaved and eventually killed in large numbers. The seafaring Onge were forced to make room for the settlers. The forest-dwelling Jarawa fiercely resisted outsiders until the late 1990s. The reclusive Sentinelese still hold their tiny fort. All remain animistic in faith. Missionaries had greater success on the Nicobar Islands to the south, which lie on the ancient marine trade route between Europe and the Far East. Evangelists started to approach the Nicobar tribes from the 15th century onward, and a Christian movement eventually succeeded on the Islands during the final decades of British occupation. An island of isolation The Nicobar tribes are Mongoloid; the Andaman tribes, including the Sentinelese, are Negrito — evidence for the Homo sapiens migration from East Africa some 70,000 years ago. The Sentinelese are a pre-Neolithic people who have inhabited North Sentinel Island for an estimated 55,000 years without contact with the outside world. They are short statured possibly due to the “island effect” that causes genetic limitation over time. The Sentinelese and other aboriginal tribes of the archipelago are protected under The Andaman and Nicobar (Protection of Aboriginal Tribes) Regulation, 1956. Due to their isolation, it is unlikely the Sentinelese have immunity against even common diseases. Immunity and declining population A large chunk of the population of the 10 Great Andamanese tribes was wiped out after the indigenous peoples caught syphilis, measles, and influenza on an epidemic scale following contact with the early settlers. Between 1998 and 2004, when the Jarawa started to respond to the state, all government hospitals bordering their reserve opened special wards to treat them for infections. The Sentinelese remained hostile from the time efforts began to reach out to them in 1967. The government gave up in the mid-1990s, and in order to safeguard their health and sovereignty, decided that no one could enter a 5-km buffer zone around their island, which was already out of bounds. Commerce vs caution Under the Foreigners (Restricted Areas) Order, 1963, the Andaman & Nicobar Islands are a “Restricted Area” in which foreigners with a restricted area permit (RAP) can stay on 13 islands, and make day visits to another 11. But in recent years, the Andaman Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Andaman Association of Tour Operators have pressed to have the RAP restrictions relaxed. In August 2018, the Home Ministry dropped the RAP requirement for visiting 29 inhabited islands until 2022, even though separate approvals continue to be required for visiting Reserve Forests, Wildlife Sanctuaries and Tribal Reserves. Following criticism that the move compromised the safety of the tribes and ecology of the islands, the UT Administration clarified that Indian nationals would continue to require a pass issued by the Deputy Commissioner for entering a tribal reserve, and foreigners would need prior approval from the Principal Secretary (Tribal Welfare). Cost of exposure Fewer than 50 Great Andamanese are alive today. In 2010, Boa, the last of the Bo, a Great Andamanese tribe, died — taking with her the knowledge and language of her people. A few months earlier, another ancient language, Khora, had passed with Boa’s neighbour Boro. In December 2008, at least 15 Onge men died after drinking from a plastic container that had washed up on Dugong Creek. The Onge, who now number fewer than 100, have abandoned hunting-gathering and depend entirely on government help. From 2004 onward, the 400-odd surviving Jarawa began to retreat into the forest, closing the window of their willing interaction with the world. But the highway continues to bring the world and sexual exploitation, substance abuse and disease — into their shrinking sanctuary. The Sentinelese have been the exception, protected by coral reefs that make landing on their island dangerous, and by the tribe’s unwavering hostility towards outsiders. Conclusion In December 2014, the A&N administration announced a change of policy from “hands off” to “hands off but eyes on” to protect the Sentinelese. Chau’s tragedy underlines the need to re-examine security and tighten vigil around North Sentinel Island. While the “island effect” may eventually wipe out the tiny tribal populations in the archipelago, allowing their sanctuaries to be invaded by outsiders will only hasten that process. As President Pranab Mukherjee said in 2014, it is the job of the Indian state “to protect them in their own environment and in their own circumstances”. Connecting the dots: What is "island effect"? Critically examine the causes of declining tribal population on Anaman and Nicobar islands. (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) ‘Kudumbashree’ is the women empowerment and poverty eradication program conceived by which of the following states? Kerala Tamil Nadu Karnataka Telangana Q.2) Consider the following statements about Bhitarkanika National Park It is included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites It is unique in being a swamp with floating vegetation Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) The salt-water crocodile is found along the: Eastern coast and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Western coast and Lakshadweep islands Gulf of Kutch and Gulf of Khambhat along with some areas near Gulf of Mannar All the Above Q.4) Consider the following statements regarding Bhitarkanika National Park It is surrounded by Gahirmatha Beach It is known for salt water crocodiles It is located in the mouth of Mahanadi Delta Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 and 3 only 1 and 2 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.5) Dudhwa National Park, Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary and Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary are located in – Odisha Uttar Pradesh Madhya Pradesh West Bengal Q.6) Amur falcons has one of the longest and most fascinating migratory paths in the avian kingdom. Consider the following statements regarding Amur falcons: It is one of the largest raptor species. It migrates from Mongolia to South Africa via India. It is amongst the critically endangered species and very few left in wild. It considered a delicacy in Nagaland and widely hunted during their short stay in India. Select the correct statements from above: 1 and 3 2 and 4 3 only All of the above Q.7) Doyang Lake, famous as a roosting site for longest travelling raptors Amur Falcons is located in which state? Nagaland Manipur Meghalaya Arunachal Pradesh Q.8) Consider the following statements about RIMES (Regional Integrated Multi-hazard Early Warning System for Asia and Africa) It is an international and intergovernmental institution, owned and managed by its Member States, for the generation and application of early warning information It provides regional tsunami watch within the framework of Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO (IOC-UNESCO) Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.9) Which of the following mammals is also known as the ‘Sea Cow’? Walrus Hippopotamus Dugong Seal Q.10) Dugongs are found predominantly in Sundarbans Bay of Bengal Gulf of Mannar Gulf of Khambhath MUST READ Ten years after the Mumbai attack The Hindu Along the new Silk Roads The Hindu Touchstone of the Republic The Hindu Securing India Indian Express The Katowice test Indian Express Constructing A City Indian Express 26/11 anniversary: Conquering without fighting Indian Express 26/11 10th anniversary: From terror to hope Indian Express Incentivizing private sector R&D in India Livemint

Nov 26, 2018 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 116]

UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 116] Archives Q.1) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Quadricycles’ It cannot be used for personal use according to the Motor Vehicles Act 1988 It is being promoted as a replacement to the three-wheeler auto-rickshaws 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 ‘Hansen’s disease’ It is a bacterial disease It affects the skin and nerves which can lead to physical deformity and disability if left untreated Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Apep’, which was recently in news. It is capable of producing a gamma-ray burst It is named after the serpentine Egyptian god of chaos Select the correct code: 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Mountain gorilla’ It is native to South East Asia It is listed as critically endangered under the IUCN Red list Select the correct code: 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.5) ‘Rothschild’s giraffe’ is listed as ________ under IUCN Red List Endangered Near Threatened Vulnerable Extinct To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

Nov 25, 2018 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs [Prelims + Mains Focus] - 24th November 2018

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 24th November 2018 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) India to study drugs derived from marijuana Part of: GS Mains II and III – Health issues; Research and Development; Science and Technology In news: Three major science administrators in India — the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, the Indian Council for Medical Research and the Department of Biotechnolgy — are getting together to promote research in herbal drugs, some of which involve deriving new drugs from marijuana. Researchers to test whether strains of marijuana could be effective in the treatment of breast cancer, sickle-cell anaemia, among others. The studies into the therapeutic potential of marijuana is part of a larger governmental thrust to making new drugs derived from herbs and plants that find mention in Ayurvedic and other traditional-medicine knowledge systems. Chandrayaan-2 lunar lander Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Science and Technology; Space Missions In news: We have read that Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has postponed Chandrayaan-2, India’s second mission to moon to January 2019. Chandrayaan-2 is India’s most challenging and India’s second mission to Moon. It is advanced version of previous Chandrayaan-1 mission (launched in 2008) which only involved orbiting around moon, Chandrayaan-2 is much complicated mission as it involves an orbiter, lander and rover. Lunar lander faces crucial test – Chandrayaan-2’s landing sensors will be tested at a special site in Karnataka. The test on ground, called the Lander Sensor Performance Test or LSPT, will be conducted at ISRO’s new R&D campus in Chitradurga district, Karnataka. The lander is being developed and tested by the U.R. Rao Satellite Centre in Bengaluru. Pic: https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2018/11/24/DEL/Delhi/TH/5_05/90a97420_2547149_101_mr.jpg 30th Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – International Relations; Effect of Policies & Politics of Countries on India's Interests In news: 30th Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit took place in Papua New Guinea. For the first time since its inception APEC has failed to release a joint communique due to lack of consensus among the members over trade and security issues. All 20 countries except China agreed to the joint statement. Lack of consensus between China and the US US targeted China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and called it as “constricting belt” and a “One-way Road”. US also warned smaller countries to be cautious of “debt-trap” by China and said not to accept debt which compromise sovereignty. China defended BRI and said that there is no geo-political agenda behind it and it is not an exclusive club closed to non-members, nor is it a trap. China targeted US policy of “America First” and said that erecting barriers and cutting ties is a short-sighted approach doomed to fail. The U.S.-China discord at APEC highlighted the dangers of their trade war, trade war between the US and China could cripple the Pacific Rim economy. Do you know? Due to the tariff war International Monetary Fund has downgraded its global growth outlook for 2018 and 2019. If this continues, global supply chains will be impacted, and shrinking trade volumes may cause companies to seek out new trading routes and partners. About APEC It was established in 1989 and has 21 members. (India is not a Member) APEC is the premier Asia-Pacific economic forum. Primary goal of APEC is to support sustainable economic growth and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region. India has requested membership in APEC, and received initial support from the United States, Japan, Australia and Papua New Guinea. Officials have decided not to allow India to join as India does not border the Pacific Ocean, which all current members do. India was invited to be an observer for the first time in November 2011. Statute in Braille to mark Constitution Day In news: The Constitution will be made available in Braille for the first time ahead of the Constitution Day on November 26. In a joint project undertaken by The Buddhist Association for the Blind along with Saavi Foundation and Swagat Thorat, who started India’s first Braille newsletter Sparshdnyan, the Constitution will be made available in five parts in Braille for the benefit of visually challenged individuals. Miscellaneous Public broadcaster Prasar Bharati will audit its workforce, a long-pending exercise that was recommended by the Sam Pitroda Committee in 2014. The last time the Prasar Bharati made recruitments was in 1996. (MAINS FOCUS) NATIONAL/SECURITY TOPIC:General studies 3 Security challenges and their management in border areas Aligning the triad: On India’s nuclear deterrence Introduction INS Arihant, India’s first indigenously developed nuclear submarine, returned to the Indian shores on Monday after successfully completing its first deterrence patrol. The submarine is a vital cog in India’s quest in attaining a minimum deterrent nuclear ‘triad’ – the ability to fire nuclear-tipped missiles from land, air and sea. Do you know? What is the composition of INS Arihant? INS Arihant is a 6,000-tonne submarine with a length of 110 meters and a breadth of 11 meters. The vessel will be able to carry 12 Sagarika K 15 submarine launched ballistic missiles that have a range of over 700 km. INS Arihant will be the first SSBN-type submarine in the Navy. It has also been reported that its sister vessel, the INS Aridhaman, is nearing completion. What is SSBN type submarine? Strategic Strike Nuclear Submarines (SSBNs) are powered by a nuclear reactor and as a result, they can function submerged for months without having to surface. This feature allows them to travel further and with greater stealth. They are different from conventional SSK submarines, which use a diesel-electric engine as their power source, and have to surface daily to get oxygen for fuel combustion. Missing Link in INS Arihant Induction of INS Arihant does not complete Nuclear Triad. INS Arihant would have to develop further capabilities to act as a nuclear deterrent. The range of nuclear tipped ballistic missile is insufficient to reach key targets in China and Pakistan. Further, to target enemy countries, it would have to go closer to the waters of enemy countries where it increases the chances of being detected and targeted. To ensure seamless and continuous presence, India needs 4 such submarines whose production and maintenance is extremely expensive. Impact on Strategic Stability Induction of INS Arihant enhances maritime competition in the region, modernise naval fleet and seek to have enhanced presence in the region. Further, INS Arihant’s aggressive posture may lead to confusion and minor conflicts which may escalate into a full-fledged war. Thus, there is a security dilemma involved considering that whatever actions a country takes to secure itself could actually end up making itself more unsecure. For example, Pakistan could develop or purchase similar nuclear submarines with active help of China which may lead to increased instability in the region. Similarly, China’s Belt and Road Initiative may lead to revival of QUAD Security dialogue between India, USA, Japan and Australia. Command and Control There are concerns regarding command and control of the use of nuclear triads especially those under water. The naval leg is essentially under the military custody and control. There will be no civilian presence on board an Ship Submersible Ballistic Nuclear (SSBN). The captain of SSBN will be under Strategic Forces Command under military control who can launch nuclear missile on orders from political authority. However, the article mentions that there is no fool proof mechanism to ensure misuse of nuclear missile which can escalate into a regional war in the South Asian Region. Way forward INS Arihant makes a robust nuclear deterrence, but also changes deterrence stability in South Asian Region. Nuclear Triad comprises of capability of nuclear strike from land, air and under-water. It is suggested to reduce investment in land and air strike capability and to increase under-water strike capability. USA and USSR in 1972 signed an agreement named “Incidents at Sea Agreement” which aimed to avoid confusion and accidents at sea and also to avoid escalation into full fledged war. India, Pakistan and China should enter into a similar agreement to avoid escalation of war in the region. Connecting the dots: In the light of India’s nuclear triad, critically examine the state of India’s nuclear deterrence. NATIONAL TOPIC:General studies 2 Constitution: Governor, Special status to J&K Unlawful dissolution: On J&K Assembly Introduction Jammu and Kashmir was under Governor's Rule since June 2018 as per the constitution of Jammu and Kashmir. The Governor of Jammu and Kashmir has dissolved the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly citing "extensive horse-trading" and the "impossibility" of forming a stable government by coming together of political parties with "opposing political ideologies" for dissolving the assembly. His move paves the way for fresh elections in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. But decision to dissolve J&K assembly is being criticised. Criticism of dissolution As indicated in Rameshwar Prasad(2006), a Governor cannot shut out post-poll alliances altogether as one of the ways in which a popular government may be formed. The court had also said unsubstantiated claims of horse-trading or corruption in efforts at government formation cannot be cited as reasons to dissolve the Assembly. Further, it said it was the Governor’s duty to explore the possibility of forming a popular government, and that he could not dissolve the House solely to prevent a combination from staking its claim. Do you know? About Governor of Jammu and Kashmir Governor of Jammu and Kashmir derives his powers and authority from the Constitution of Jammu and Kashmir. The Governor of Jammu and Kashmir shall be appointed by the President by warrant under his hand and seal. The Governor shall hold office during the pleasure of the President. The Governor may, by writing under his hand addressed to the President, resign his office. Governor shall hold office for a term of five years from the date on which he enters upon his office. No person shall be eligible for appointment as Governor unless he is a citizen of India and has completed the age of thirty years. The Governor shall, before entering upon his office, make and subscribe in the presence of the Chief Justice of the High Court or, in his absence, the senior most Judge of that Court available, an oath or affirmation. Council of Ministers aid and advise the Governor of J&K as per Section 35 of J&K Constitution. Section 35(2) - All functions of the Governor except those under sections 36, 38 and 92 shall be exercised by him only on the advice of the Council of Ministers. Where Governor of J&K may have discretion Section 36 - Appointment of Ministers; The Chief Minister shall be appointed by the Governor and the other ministers shall be appointed by the Governor on the advice of the Chief Minister. Section 38 - Deputy Ministers; The Governor may on the advice of the Chief Minister appoint from amongst the members of either House of Legislature such number of Deputy Ministers as may be necessary. Section 92 - Provisions in case of failure of constitutional machinery in the State Conclusion J&K’s relationship with the Centre is rooted in constitutional safeguards as well as in the participation of its major parties in electoral politics and parliamentary democracy. For political stability in the sensitive State it should be ensured that democratic processes are strengthened. The potential for political instability in the future should not be cited as a reason to scuttle emerging alliances. Connecting the dots: Explain briefly, appointment, powers and functions of J&K governor. (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 ‘Chandrayaan-1’ It is a remote sensing lunar satellite It had a mass of 1,380 kg at launch Presence of frozen water deposits on the Moon’s Polar Regions was confirmed by NASA using data collected from ‘Chandrayaan -1’ Select the correct statements 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.2) U.R. Rao Satellite Centre is located in - Bangalore Thiruvananathapuram Sriharikota Pune Q.3) ‘Asian Premium’ is associated with which of the following organisations? OPEC SCO ASEAN APEC Q.4) Consider the following about APEC: India is a permanent member of APEC APEC includes three official observers namely ASEAN, the Pacific Islands Forum and the Pacific Economic Cooperation Council. APEC currently has 21 members, including most countries with a coastline on the Pacific Ocean Which of the given statements is/are correct? 1 and 3 2 and 3 1 and 3 1, 2 and 3 MUST READ Not by ordinance The Hindu   Looking beyond the optics The Hindu Ground Zero | Stopping the virus — muddled science, poor public health communication mar India’s response to Zika outbreak The Hindu  No Platform For Violence Indian Express Turning their back on modernity Indian Express  Away from the spectacle Indian Express