Dec 26, 2018 AIR

All India Radio (AIR) IAS UPSC - Women Reservation Bill

Women Reservation Bill ARCHIVES All India Radio Link: http://www.newsonair.com/Audio-Archive-Search.aspx TOPIC: General Studies 1 Role of women and women’s organization, women related issues, Social empowerment General studies 2 Mechanisms, laws, institutions and Bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections. Parliament and State Legislatures, structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these. The Issue The Reservation Bill: 108th Amendment Bill to reserve for women one-third of seats in Parliament and the State legislatures Real stumbling block to the Bill: The existing patriarchal mind-set within the very same parties that have affirmed support to it (Congress & BJP; uniformly and strongly chauvinistic) According to the 2011 census, India has 586.4 million women out of a total population of 1.21 billion. A total of 260.6 million women exercised their right to vote in Lok Sabha elections in 2014 according to the Election Commission of India, which gives any women’s party potentially the largest base among political parties. For a country with a female population that is larger than that of the United States and a thriving democracy that prides itself on being robust and responsive, India has done rather poorly when it comes to female representation in national politics. The 16th Lok Sabha has only 64 women among its 542 members, a mere 11.8 per cent. Afghanistan (27.7 per cent), Pakistan (20.6 per cent) and Saudi Arabia (19.9 per cent) do better. Highlights of the Bill The Constitution (One Hundred and Eighth Amendment) Bill, 2008 seeks to reserve one-third of all seats for women in the Lok Sabha and the state legislative assemblies.  The allocation of reserved seats shall be determined by such authority as prescribed by Parliament. One third of the total number of seats reserved for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes shall be reserved for women of those groups in the Lok Sabha and the legislative assemblies. Reserved seats may be allotted by rotation to different constituencies in the state or union territory. Reservation of seats for women shall cease to exist 15 years after the commencement of this Amendment Act. Why do we need women in power? As representatives, we need women To eliminate the systemic biases and structural barriers that keep our girls out of the tech industry, our victims of gender-based violence in fear and our women’s sports teams under-funded. To dismantle structural barriers, the responsibility falls on working women who have successfully overcome constraints to open the gates for other women. To design laws that encourage better education for girls. To secure financial independence and formal employment for women. To push up our abysmal female labour force participation rates. To ensure that female hygiene products are not taxed as luxury goods. In addressing systemic biases, exposure to women in office weakens stereotypes about gender roles. Watching women in leadership positions reduces the negative perceptions men have about their effectiveness as leaders. It also induces men to dream better dreams for their daughters, and that is no mean feat. Over the past few decades, women have made their mark as effective managers, bankers, professors, corporate leaders, lawyers, doctors and civil servants. These are women who know how to solve problems, get things done and manage multiple responsibilities. Electing able women professionals will help us simultaneously achieve better representation and expertise. Against Reservations The government has instituted quotas for women political candidates at the local level — 33 per cent of seats are reserved for them. These quotas have been successful. Yet, there is resistance to implementing them at the national level. Critics allege that these quotas are neither meritocratic nor useful because women in politics are simply representatives of the men who would have been in politics — wives and daughters of male proxies. Never mind the fact that these quotas at the local level have improved the quality of local policymaking, as women have tended to invest significantly more (Harvard research by Lori Beaman, Esther Duflo, Rohini Pande and Petia Topalova) than their male counterparts on the provision of public goods — health, education, and roads. Stating their findings in The Print, here are what the researchers involved in the study say: 1) Women legislators in India raise the economic performance in their constituencies by about 1.8 percentage points per year more than male legislators. 2) Women are more effective at completing road projects and hence creating infrastructure. 3) Women legislators are significantly less likely than men to be carrying criminal charges. They are also slightly younger on average. 4) Evidence suggests that women legislators are less likely than men to exploit their office for personal financial gain. On the subject of economic growth, women legislators do a lot better than men in constituencies located in less-developed states, thus making their contribution more valuable. In fact, another United Nations study illustrates that women-led panchayats have delivered 62% higher drinking water projects than in those led by men. What is the problem exactly? First, political parties in India tend not to follow provisions in their constitutions reserving seats for women in different committees. In several instances, when women are offered party tickets, it’s a case of the Lalu Prasad syndrome—the woman being a de facto stand-in for a male relative rather than exercising power in her own right. The second barrier is the lack of education and leadership training. K. Gajwani and X. Zhang surveyed 144 villages across Tamil Nadu and found female panchayat heads to be less acquainted with the functioning of the panchayati system than their male counterparts. Similar research focusing on Andhra Pradesh revealed that hamlets with women leaders are underprepared for efficient implementation of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme. Additionally, since women are not integrated in any local political process initially, and, unlike men, are not part of the relevant social and power networks, women leaders are prone to inefficiencies. Given these concerns, there is a pressing need for education and leadership training to familiarize them with the local government functioning and instil in them a sense of agency. These two problems create a vicious cycle where socio-economic disadvantages lead to reduced opportunities for women to participate in the political process, leading to weakened representation—which, in turn, retards the process of addressing those socio-economic disadvantages. It’s a cycle that has been perpetuated for seven decades. It must be broken. The Way Forward Pass the Women’s Reservation Bill without delays and revisions Recognise that the absence of sub-quotas calls for measures to attract candidates and support representatives from lower caste and class groups Tailor training and support programmes for elected representatives to help women from lower caste and class overcome their disadvantage Reasons to delay and revise the bill simply do not hold in light of the crude gender imbalance at state and central level. Evidence from the reservation at local level must brush aside remaining resistances. Connecting the Dots Socio-economic disadvantages and poor female political participation create a vicious cycle that needs to be broken. Discuss.

Dec 26, 2018 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2019 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 138]

UPSC Quiz - 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 138] Archives Q.1) The ‘Aldabra Atoll’ is nearest to which of the following countries? Comoros Seychelles Indonesia Maldives Q.2) Consider the following statements and identify the correct ones: Lohit is a tributary to the Brahmaputra River Dhola–Sadiya Bridge is built across the Lohit River Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) Pratikar, a bilateral military exercise is between India and Nepal Nepal and Bhutan Nepal and Sri Lanka None of the above Q.4) Ashok Chawla Committee is concerned with Army Pay Scales Long Term Food Policy Banking Supervision Allocation of Natural Resources Q.5) Crevasses form because  _________ the glacial surface partially melts, leaving holes and cracks glacial meltwater erodes small valleys as glacial rivers flow low confining pressure at the surface causes cracks as the ice flows a glacial calving process has not been completed To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

Dec 26, 2018 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2019 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 137]

UPSC Quiz - 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 137] Archives Q.1) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘AMRUT’ scheme It ensure that every household has access to a tap with assured supply of water and a sewerage connection Affordable housing will be provided to the urban poor with a target of building 20 million affordable houses by 31 March 2022 Select the correct code: 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Agni IV’ It is a two-stage solid propellant missile It has a strike range of 4,000 km Select the correct code: 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) What is ‘Vespucci’ which was recently in news Italian Intercontinental Ballistic Missile European Navigation Satellite System Aircraft carrier developed by Brazil GPS Satellite for US Air Force Q.4) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘National Supercomputing Mission (NSM)’ It is implemented and steered jointly by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) and Department of Electronics and Information Technology (DeitY) French IT services firm Atos will build the first phase of supercomputers under National Supercomputing Mission (NSM) Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.5) Gupta sculpture was influenced by: Mathura School Amravati School Gandhara School Both (a) and (b) To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

Dec 25, 2018 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

Daily Current Affairs [IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam] – 24th December 2018

Daily Current Affairs [IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam] – 24th December 2018 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Tsunami kills 200+ people in Indonesia Part of: GS Prelims and Mains I and III – Geography; Natural Hazards; Disaster and disaster management In news: Tsunami struck the Indonesian islands of Java and Sumatra following a underwater landslide, believed to have been caused by the erupting Anak Krakatoa volcano. Anak Krakatoa, an active volcano roughly halfway between Java and Sumatra, has been spewing ash and lava for months. Important Value Additions Tsunami is harbor wave which consists of a series of seismic waves which rise as high as 10m or more. They move inland, several hundred miles causing untold disaster. Factors that lead to tsunami-genesis: Earthquakes: Earthquake occurring beneath the sea-when thrust faults associated with convergent or destructive plate boundaries move abruptly, resulting in vertical water displacement. Volcanic eruptions-80% happen within Pacific ocean’s “Ring of fire” where earthquakes and volcanoes are common. Volcanic eruptions can cause discharge of large amounts not energy in a small amount of time, this energy is in turn imparted to the water which causes tsunami. Landslides: under ocean landslides can cause disequilibrium in the ocean water, which will move towards the shore as tsunami to regain isostasy. Meteorites and nuclear explosions: both of them can use release of huge amounts of energy in a few seconds, which will cause the displacement of water. Paika Rebellion Part of: GS Prelims and Mains I – Indian History; significant events, personalities, issues In news: PM Modi to issue Paika Rebellion Commemorative Stamp and Paika Rebellion Commemorative Coin About Paika Rebellion The Paika Rebellion, also called the Paika Bidroha, was an armed rebellion against the British East India Company's rule in Odisha in 1817. The Paikas rose in rebellion under their leader Bakshi Jagabandhu and, projecting Jagannath as the symbol of Odia unity, the rebellion quickly spread across most of Odisha before being ruthlessly put down by the company's forces. The Paikas were the traditional militia of Odisha. They served as warriors and were charged with policing functions during peacetime. The Paikas were organised into three ranks distinguished by their occupation and the weapons they wielded. These were the Paharis, the bearers of shields and the khanda sword, the Banuas who led distant expeditions and used matchlocks and the Dhenkiyas - archers who also performed different duties in Odisha armies. With the conquest of Odisha by the East India Company in 1803 and the dethronement of the Raja of Khurda began the fall of the power and prestige of the Paikas. Causes of Rebellion: The Paika rebellion had several social, economic and political reasons. The Paiks were alienated by the British regime, who took over the hereditary rent-free lands granted to them after the conquest of Khurda. They were also subjected to extortion and oppression at the hands of the company government and its servants. Had conciliatory measures been adopted towards the Paiks from the beginning, it is possible that they would have become a source of strength to the company rule in Odisha. The extortionist land revenue policy of the company affected the peasants and the zamindars alike. A source of much consternation for the common people was the rise in prices of salt due to taxes imposed on it by the new government. The company also abolished the system of cowrie currency that had existed in Odisha prior to its conquest and required that taxes be paid in silver. This caused much popular hardship and discontent. In 1804 the Raja of Khurda planned a rebellion against the British in alliance with the Paiks, but the plot was soon discovered and the Raja's territory was confiscated. Do you know? The 'Paika Bidroha' (Paika rebellion) of 1817 will find a place in the history books as 'the First War of Independence' from the next academic session. Till now the Revolt of 1857 was called the First war of Independence. PM to open Buddhist site museum at Lalitgiri in Odisha Part of: GS Prelims and Mains I – Indian Heritage and Culture, History In news: Lalitgiri – considered one of the earliest Buddhist settlements in Odisha After excavations, ancient seals and inscriptions, relic caskets, stone pathways were found, which has been converted into a museum. Excavations at Lalitgiri have yielded the remains of four monasteries, showing cultural continuity from the post-Mauryan period till the 13th century CE. No rise in working women despite high literacy levels Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II and III – Social issue; Indian Economy and related issues In news: A rise in literacy levels among women has failed to translate into an increase in the number of working women due to a combination of socio-economic factors. There is a rise in the percentage of women out of labour force between 2011-2012 and 2015-2016 across all levels of education and age-cohorts. At the same time, the percentage of illiterate women out of the labour force too increased. Despite one’s educational attainment there has been a decline in the incentive for women to participate in the labour force. Do you know? The gross enrolment ratio shows that there are equal numbers of boys and girls at secondary level and women remain in education longer. Socio-economic factors that has led women out of the labour force role education plays in marriage markets (importance of education for improving marital prospects) social norms – higher prestige or social status is associated with families which keep their women out of the workforce poor condition for educated women quality of education Government policies should focus on behavioural changes that make female employment more acceptable in the society, communication programmes on gender equality in secondary education to help students imbibe equitable gender norms as well as programmes that acknowledge child care as the responsibility of both parents. Miscellaneous: Krushak Assistance for Livelihood and Income Augmentation (KALIA) scheme – Odisha announced ₹10,000-crore KALIA scheme to address the agrarian crisis. The Odisha government has now decided to procure oil seeds and pulses with increased minimum support price. (MAINS FOCUS) WELFARE/ECONOMY TOPIC:General studies 2 and 3  Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies and minimum support prices Inclusive growth and issues arising from it. Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes; mechanisms, laws, institutions and bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections Need of the hour: structured and stable income support policy for farmers Introduction: In our previous articles we had dealt about why farm loan waivers are not a suitable option to address the rural distress. (For more, refer - Avoid loan waivers) Newly elected chief ministers of Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan have all announced loan waivers within their promised time of 10 days. It may cost the state exchequers more than Rs 50,000 crore. Opposition leaders have also challenged the prime minister to waive off loans of all farmers. Do you know - How much is a pan-India loan waiver likely to cost? Total outstanding credit to agriculture currently is likely to be around Rs 12-13 lakh crore. It is not feasible to waive off all these loans, it will simply blow up the budget. Therefore, considering just short-term crop loans (maximum limit of say Rs 2 lakh per farmer) and, only from nationalised banks and PACs, the total bill is not likely to settle below Rs 4 lakh crore, and may even touch around Rs 5 lakh crore. In other words, it will cost anywhere between Rs 4 and 5 lakh crore, including states that have waived farm loans since 2017. Do you know? UPA government had announced mega loan waiver of Rs 71,680 crore in 2008. As per the report of the CAG on Implementation of Agricultural Debt Waiver and Debt Relief Scheme (2013), the 2008 Mega Loan Waiver amounted to 20 per cent of total outstanding loans to agriculture in 2008, and actual disbursement was just Rs 52,516 crore over a period of four years. Loan waiver is only a temporary relief, that too tilted towards larger farmers. Institutional credit comprises about 64 per cent of total credit taken by all farmers, the remaining 36 per cent coming from non-institutional sources. It is the large farmers who take a larger proportion of their credit from institutional sources. The marginal farmers with holdings of less than one hectare, who constitute 68.5 per cent of the peasantry, actually take more than half of their loans from non-institutional sources at interest rates that range from 24-36 per cent, and sometimes even higher. Better Alternative Providing higher MSPs are market distorting. The alternative is to think of a structured and stable income/investment support policy for farmers. Improvised version of Telangana’s Rythu Bandhu scheme could serve as a starting point. Telangana’s Rythu Bandhu scheme Under this scheme, the government can give Rs 10,000/ha as investment support to cultivators. Payments under this scheme could be inversely related to the holding size, making it more pro-small holders. Farms can be geo-tagged to ensure that only those farmers get benefits who are cultivating land. Land records will have to be upgraded to include tenants. Conclusion: In any case, if this scheme is implemented in over 20 crore hectares of gross cropped area of the country, it will cost about Rs 2 lakh crore per annum, which could be equally distributed between the Centre and the states. The Centre should also include fertiliser subsidy into this and encourage states to transfer their power subsidy through this platform based on per hectare basis. Such a policy can reach the largest number of farmers, be more equitable, the least market distorting, and predictable. The costs are high, but so are the costs of food subsidy for consumers (Rs 1,69,000 crore). Striking the right balance between consumers and farmers is the need of the hour. Connecting the dots: Agrarian distress has become a serious challenge for the economy and has grave socio-political repercussions. Examine the factors that have led to this situation. Also discuss the measures taken by the government to address the same. Do loan waivers offer a sustainable solution to this problem? Critically analyse. NATIONAL/INTERNAL SECURITY TOPIC:General studies 2 and 3 Indian polity; Government laws and policies; Policy reforms Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate Role of external state and non-state actors in creating challenges to internal security. Challenges to internal security through communication networks Security issues 1984 anti-Sikh riots case and dealing with Genocide In news: The Delhi High Court recently sentenced Congress leader Sajjan Kumar to life imprisonment in a case pertaining to the killing of five member of a Sikh family during the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. The judgment delivered by Justices S Muralidhar and Vinod Goel showed that “Neither ‘crimes against humanity’ nor ‘genocide’ is part of our domestic law of crime. This loophole needs to be addressed urgently.” Dealing with mass killings India has witnessed many mass crimes since its partition to mass killings in Mumbai in 1993, in Gujarat in 2002, in Kandhamal, Odisha in 2008, in Muzaffarnagar in UP in 2013, to name a few. All these “mass crimes were the targeting of minorities and the attacks spearheaded by the dominant political actors being facilitated by the law enforcement agencies” and the “criminals responsible for the mass crimes have enjoyed political patronage and managed to evade prosecution and punishment”. Preventing Genocide India signed the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide on December 8, 1949 (ratified on August 27, 1959). The above international law binds Indian state to prevent, punish acts of genocide. As does Article 21 of the Constitution. Article V of the Convention obligates all contracting parties “to enact, in accordance with their respective constitutions, the necessary legislation to give effect to the provisions of the present Convention and to provide effective penalties for persons guilty of genocide.” And by Article 1 the “Contracting parties confirm that genocide, whether committed in time of peace or in time of war, is a crime under international law which they undertake to prevent and to punish”. Genocide cannot be a lone wolf crime; it has to be the work of many hands and minds working in concert and with a clear and specific intention to physically annihilate a whole group of people. Yet, howsoever much human rights activists may wish for it, cultural genocide is not yet a category of the law of genocide.                                                                                 - Upendra Baxi Do you know? International Court of Justice (in 2007) ruled that states may also commit genocide. Acts of mass exodus or deportation, or measures of birth control by the state, may be regarded as genocidal acts and is a part of Genocide Convention. ICJ maintained that what distinguishes genocide from other crimes is the “intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group as such”. John Heieck, author of book 'A Duty to Prevent Genocide: Due Diligence Obligations Among the P5' has argued that – If necessary the five permanent members of the UN Security Council may have a duty to intervene even by military means and the rule by veto may be suspended in situations of genocide. Conclusion Article 51 [C] of the Indian Constitution casts a duty to “foster respect for international law and treaty obligations in the dealings of organised peoples with one another.” The duties to prevent and punish acts of genocide, reiterated by the ICJ, are binding on India, both as an aspect of conventional and customary international law; they are also an integral aspect of Article 21, the rights to life and liberty as interpreted and innovated by the apex court. State’s duty to prevent and punish crimes against humanity remains as great and grave. Connecting the dots: Growing mass crimes against humanity or genocide needs reforms in our existing laws and legal procedures. Do you agree? Critically examine. What are the differences between the legal terms "crimes against humanity" and "genocide"? (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 ‘Paika Rebellion’ It was led by Bakshi Jagabandhu Bidyadhar. It took place when the British East India company wrested the rent-free land that had been given to the Paiks for their military service to the Kingdom of Khurda. Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) Consider the following statements about landslide: Landslide is mass movement of rock, debris or earth down a slope Reasons for landslides are steep slope, earthquake, volcanic disturbances, rainfall etc Landslides can generate tsunamis. Select the correct statements 1 and 3 2 and 3 None of the above All of the above Q.3) Consider the following statements about Tsunami The speed of tsunami waves depends on ocean depth rather than the distance from the source of the wave. These are generated by high magnitude earthquakes in the ocean floors or violent under sea volcanic eruptions or by massive undersea landslides. Select the correct answer using the codes below: 1 only 2 only 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4) Which one of the following statements regarding Tsunami is NOT correct? It often generates strong waves. The Pacific coasts are most vulnerable to Tsunami waves. Tsunami waves are also called high-energy tidal waves or seismic sea waves. Tsunami is a Latin word. Q.5) Lalitgiri – considered one of the earliest Buddhist settlements is located in – West Bengal Tamil Nadu Karnataka Odisha MUST READ  What is altruistic surrogacy? The Hindu When Gandhi’s statue is removed in Ghana The Hindu Water woes The Hindu God’s own challenge Indian Express

Dec 25, 2018 UPSC Interview Discussion-TRP

Interview Discussion IAS UPSC: Think, Rethink and Perform (TRP)-Day 7

Interview Discussion: Think, Rethink and Perform; (TRP)- Day 7  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 frustrates you as an Indian? Why?   Do you have a plan to change that? How will you do it? Aren’t you a part of the problems that frustrate you? Think about it. Set 2: Analyse the following issue: One of the most prominent Bollywood actors made a comment that Virat Kohli is the most ill behaved player in the world. What are your views in this regard? Don’t you think as the Indian captain, Kohli is giving the Aussies the taste of their own medicine? Moreover, if he is performing well, why should there be a problem with his aggressive demeanour? Give your views?

Dec 24, 2018 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

Daily Current Affairs [IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam] – 22nd December 2018

Daily Current Affairs [IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam] – 22nd December 2018 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) NITI Aayog SDG index Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II and III – Development issues; Gove schemes and interventions; Indian Economy and related issues In news: According to a first-of-its-kind sustainable development index released by NITI Aayog – Himachal Pradesh, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu have been ranked highest in terms of being on track to achieve the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). The SDG Index Score for Sustainable Development Goals 2030 ranges between 42 and 69 for States and between 57 and 68 for UTs. The average Indian score was 57. The aim of the index is to instill competition among States to improve their performance across social indices as the States’ progress will determine India’s progress towards achieving the set goals by 2030. About the Index: The index comprises a composite score for each State and Union Territory based on their aggregate performance across 13 of the 17 SDGs. The score, ranging between 0 and 100, denotes the average performance of the State/UT towards achieving the 13 SDGs and their respective targets. The average Indian score was 57. Pic: https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2018/12/22/CNI/Chennai/TH/5_01/ee8a549e_a1a55ef7_101_mr.jpg Do you know? Among the States, Kerala and Himachal Pradesh are the front runners, with an SDG India Index score of 69. Among the UTs, Chandigarh is the front runner with a score of 68. Tamil Nadu has a score 66, and is the top scorer on the goals to do with eradicating poverty and also providing clean and affordable energy. Kerala’s top rank is attributed to its superior performance in providing good health, reducing hunger, achieving gender equality and providing quality education. Himachal Pradesh ranks high on providing clean water and sanitation, in reducing inequalities and preserving the mountain ecosystem. Pic: https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2018/12/22/DEL/Delhi/TH/5_05/685855c7_2611166_101_mr.jpg Allowing 10 different Central agencies to snoop challenges SC verdict on privacy Part of: GS Mains III – Defence/Security issues; Cyber Security In news: In previous day’s article we read that – Ministry of Home Affairs issued an order authorising 10 Central agencies to intercept, monitor, and decrypt “any information generated, transmitted, received or stored in any computer.” However, experts said that the MHA order challenges the SC verdict on privacy. The government order is based on Section 69(1) of the Information Technology Act, 2000, and Rule 4 of the Information Technology (Procedure and Safeguards for Interception, Monitoring and Decryption of Information) Rules, 2009. Do you know? Nine-judge Constitution Bench judgment of the Supreme Court had directed the government to protect informational privacy of every individual. In its 2017 judgment, the court had asked the government always to balance individual privacy and the legitimate concerns of the state carefully and sensitively, even if national security was at stake. Pic: https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2018/12/22/DEL/Delhi/TH/5_08/82ee7b62_307435_8_mr.jpg Concerns: Experts have argued that – It is a serious invasion of individual privacy recognised in the S. Puttuswamy (privacy) judgment Balance tilts heavily in favour of the government A wide range of government bodies have been given blanket powers. There is no common thread among these agencies. For example, why should the Central Board of Direct Taxes get access to the encrypted material of its citizens? Hefty fines if States fail to give plans to clean up rivers: NGT Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Environment and Ecology; Pollution; Conservation of River Ecosystem In news: NGT noted that – 16 States have submitted “incomplete action plans” pertaining to the cleaning of 351 polluted river stretches in the country. It has extended the deadline for submitting the action plans to January 31. In case of non-compliance, hefty compensation will be levied on the States and the Union Territories. Concern: States and UTs have not even taken the first requisite step of preparing an action plan, showing total insensitivity to such a serious matter and public issue. NGT said - for every delay, compensation for damage to the environment will be payable by each State or UT at the rate of ₹1 crore per month for each of the Priority-I and Priority II stretches, ₹50 lakh per month for stretches in Priority III and ₹25 lakh per month each for Priority IV and Priority V stretches. Miscellaneous In news: Arunachal’s tallest tree : : Atang Ane (Ficus elastica) means ‘mother rubber tree’ UAE to deposit $3 billion in Pakistan’s central bank : : to help “enhance liquidity” as Pakistan struggles with a balance of payments crisis. S. has decided to pull a significant number of troops from Afghanistan Alba : : world’s only known albino orangutan (in Borneo). The population of orangutans in Borneo has plummeted from about 2,88,500 in 1973 to about 1,00,000 today, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Do you know? Orangutans are three extant species of great apes native to Indonesia and Malaysia. Orangutans are currently only found in the rainforests of Borneo and Sumatra. Both Sumatran and Bornean orangutans are listed as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). (MAINS FOCUS) INTERNATIONAL TOPIC:General studies 2 India and its neighborhood- relations. Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India's interests India should strengthen its Indian Ocean outreach Introduction We recently read that Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih began his trip to India declaring his country’s commitment for trade with foreign partners. He had assured India that the Maldives is pivoting to the ‘India First’ policy. Do you know? The five-year-long tenure of his predecessor, Abdulla Yameen, was marked by a serious deterioration in ties with India. Abdulla Yameen steadily took his nation towards authoritarianism and into a close embrace with China. However, Mohamed Solih’s government has adopted a different vision — one anchored in decentralised and people-centric governance. Fast recap: India-Maldives Ties India has worked out a generous $1.4 billion assistance package to help Maldives address its budget deficit and development challenges. Much of the funding may be utilised for people-friendly projects in four domains: health care, education, water and sanitation. India has offered visa facilitation that will allow Maldivians to visit India easily (with reciprocal facilities for Indian visitors to the Maldives). 1,000 “additional” training slots for the next five years Close cooperation on political and diplomatic issues Support to the Maldives as it seeks to rejoin the Commonwealth and its entry into the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih’s recent visit to India resulted in the conclusion of four agreements - relating to cooperation for information technology, culture, agri-business, and visa arrangements. His government has also given assurances to be fully sensitive to India’s security and strategic concerns, in the light of reports that China has gained access to one or more islands for military purposes. The two governments now plan “to enhance maritime security” in the Indian Ocean Region. Intelligence agencies hope to revert to nurturing better collaboration in combating terrorism, radicalisation and other non-traditional security challenges. Why India should strengthen its Indian Ocean outreach? China’s footprint in South Asia has increased in recent years. India has its own advantages, assets and friends. Maintaining balance in their (Indian Ocean countries’) external relations. India enjoys close relations with Mauritius and the Seychelles. A new grouping of India, the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Mauritius and the Seychelles, focussed on maritime security and economic development, looks attainable in the short term. Implementation of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) in IOR Address its neighbours’ concerns on security challenges; and harness enticing opportunities for the Blue Economy. Connecting the dots: India’s relation with Maldives has got a lifeline as a result of the recent visit of Maldives President. Do you agree? Also discuss why India should strengthen its Indian Ocean outreach? INTERNATIONAL TOPIC:General studies 2 Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate. Controversial exit: U.S troops withdrawal from Syria Introduction: President Donald Trump’s decision to pull U.S. troops out of Syria has predictably upset both the Washington establishment and America’s global allies. Earlier this year he had wanted to exit Syria but delayed the decision amid resistance within his cabinet. Now he claims that the physical infrastructure of the IS caliphate is destroyed and the U.S. can leave the war against the remnants of the jihadist group to the Syrian government and its main backers, Russia and Iran. Do you know? The caliphate is actually destroyed — the IS has lost 95% of the territory it once controlled and is now confined to narrow pockets on the Iraqi-Syrian border. The U.S. would also not like to get stuck in Syria forever. It is basically Russia’s war. The U.S. is already stranded in Afghanistan (for 17 years) and Iraq (over 15 years) without a way out. Barack Obama had pulled back most U.S. troops from Iraq and Afghanistan. Mr. Trump wants to get out of the Syrian theatre. But the ground reality is too complex and requires Mr. Trump to be more patient and strategic in his policymaking. Risk Factors: Syrian Kurds will be left at the mercy of Turkish troops The 2000 U.S. troops were not directly involved in the ground battle and were supporting the Syrian Democratic Forces, a rebel group led by Kurdish rebels who were in the forefront of the fight against the IS. The U.S. support for the Kurdish rebels has irked Turkey, which sees them as an extension of the Kurdistan Workers Party, the rebels on the Turkish side who have been fighting Turkish troops for decades. Turkey considers the military consolidation of Kurds as a strategic threat. When Mr. Trump pulls out American troops, he would in effect be leaving the Syrian Kurds at the mercy of Turkish troops. Turkey may launch attack on the Kurdish militants, which President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has vowed to do. The Kurds will then have to re-channel their resources to fight Turkish soldiers. This will weaken the ground resistance against the remaining IS militants on the southern side of the border. May Fuel Greater Tension Between Israel, Iran The Syrian conflict still represents multiple dangers for the security of the world. Syria remains a divided country, with many nations including Iran, Turkey and Russia with skin in the game. Iran will never abandon its presence in Syria. The Iranian Revolutionary Guards are deeply embedded in the Syrian security forces and Iranian advisors continue to be active in Syria. Iranian investment in Syria has escalated to billions of dollars in military and economic adventures. With Iran’s presence in Syria, Netanyahu’s Israel is pressing all international players and powerbrokers to force Iran to leave Syria. Israel would strike against any attempt by Iran to “establish itself militarily” in Syria. Revival of Islamic State Islamic State in Syria are still trying to reconstitute themselves by regaining territory and power. The withdrawal could allow for a revival of the Islamic State. Pic: https://images.haarets.co.il/image/upload/w_640,q_auto,c_fill,f_auto/fl_any_format.preserve_transparency.progressive:none/v1545228047/1.6763017.59111700.JPG Conclusion: The sudden withdrawal of U.S. forces from Syria that Trump has called for would pose severe humanitarian risks. The power vacuum created by an abrupt U.S. disengagement could spark a new round of fighting, which in turn will disrupt and displace communities. The result could be an even worse humanitarian crisis in a country where some 11 million people have fled their homes and more than half a million people in the northeast alone are already receiving some form of humanitarian assistance. Before any withdrawal goes forward, plans must be in place to minimize the humanitarian consequences of the ensuing instability. Connecting the dots: Critically evaluate the Donald Trump’s decision to pull U.S. troops out of Syria. (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) Strategy 2030 is a long-term strategy, of which among the following commitments - Sustainable Development Goals Paris Agreement on climate change New Development Bank Asian Development Bank Choose the correct answer: 1 and 4 only 1, 2 and 4 1 and 3 only 1, 2, 3 and 4 Q.2) ‘Affordable and Clean Energy’ is in sync with which of the following ‘Goals of the Sustainable Development Goal’? Goal 1 Goal 3 Goal 7 Goal 6 Q.3) Orangutans are found in CLMV countries Malaysia Indonesia Select the correct statements 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above  Q.4) The Kurds are scattered mainly over which of the following countries? Iraq Iran Turkey All of the above MUST READ The sinking island of Kerala The Hindu Implant Files: Who should own up to what Indian Express Hindutva & India’s neighbours Indian Express M for menstruation Indian Express   Good intentions aren’t enough Indian Express

Dec 24, 2018 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2019 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 136]

UPSC Quiz - 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 136] Archives Q.1) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Sunda Trench’ It is an oceanic trench located near Sumatra It is the deepest trench in the Indian Ocean Select the correct code: 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Storheia’ It is an active volcano mountain It is located in Sweden 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 ‘Cities Investment to Innovate, Integrate and Sustain (CITIIS) Challenge’ It will identify top projects in 15 of the 100 selected smart cities. A Loan of EUR 100 million would be extended by L’Agence Française de Développement (AFD) to selected CITIIS projects in the form of grant. Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Timberlines’ It is the edge of the habitat at which trees are capable of growing Global warming is causing timberlines to move upward Select the correct code: 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.5) The ‘Strait of Gibraltar’ is between Morocco and Spain Tunisia and Italy France and England Denmark and Germany To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

Dec 23, 2018 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

Daily Current Affairs [IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam] – 21st December 2018

Daily Current Affairs [IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam] – 21st December 2018 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Centre seeks ₹41,000 crore more to recapitalise banks Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Indian Economy and related issues In news: The government moved a proposal in Parliament for an additional ₹41,000 crore to recapitalise public sector banks, over and above the already budgeted ₹65,000 crore. If approved by the House, this would take the total recapitalisation package for the current financial year to ₹1,06,000 crore, of which the government plans to utilise ₹83,000 crore over the remaining portion of the year. According to the government, recognition of loans that are non-performing assets (NPAs) was nearly complete recovery process is progressing strongly ₹60,726 crore recovered in the first half of this financial year The government fund infusion will have four express objectives: To help banks meet regulatory capital norms Enable better performing PCA (prompt corrective action) banks to get capital Infuse funds into non-PCA banks that are closer to the red line and Give regulatory and growth capital to banks that are being amalgamated Pic: https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2018/12/21/DEL/Delhi/TH/5_01/805f9775_2608916_101_mr.jpg Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (or SSLV) Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Science and Technology; India’s achievements; Indigenous technology In news: ISRO’s Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), Kerala has completed the design for the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV). SSLV is a ‘baby rocket’ designed to launch small satellites (payload capacity of 500 kg to Low Earth orbit or 300 kg to Sun synchronous orbit) in quickest way to the space. Do you know? SSLV was developed with the aim of launching small satellites commercially at drastically reduced price and higher launch rate as compared to PSLV. The manufacturing cost of SSLV is expected to be 10% of that of PSLV. It takes a mere 15 days and minimum personnel to design the SSLV. The SSLV has three solid motor stages and like the PSLV and GSLV, can accommodate multiple satellites. Unlike the PSLV and GSLV, the SSLV can be assembled both vertically and horizontally. Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS) Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Science and Technology; India’s achievements; Indigenous technology; Defence/Security In news: User-assisted trials of the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun are likely to start soon. About ATAGS – indigenously-designed heavy artillery gun developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) The gun has several significant features including an all-electric drive, high mobility, quick deployability, auxiliary power mode, advanced communications system, automated command and control system. It also sports a six-round magazine instead of the standard three-round magazine. Do you know? The Army, which has been seeking to modernise its weaponry, recently inducted its first modern pieces of artillery in 30 years: the M777 Ultra-Light Howitzer from the U.S. and the K9 Vajra-T self-propelled artillery gun from South Korea. Pic: https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2018/12/21/DEL/Delhi/TH/5_07/9b86c457_2608927_101_mr.jpg India and Pakistan: Row over ownership of the Jinnah House Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – India and its neighbours; International relations In news: India rejected Pakistan’s claim of ownership of the Jinnah House in Mumbai. The Jinnah House on Malabar Hill in Mumbai was designed by architect Claude Batley in European style and Pakistan’s founder Mohammad Ali Jinnah lived there in the late 1930s. Pakistan has been demanding that the property be handed over to it for housing its Mumbai consulate. India’s MEA decides to use it for official events. Pakistan and China ties draws more irk A Chinese-built seaport and special economic zone in the Pakistani town of Gwadar, gives Beijing a strategic card to play against India and the U.S. if tensions worsen to the point of naval blockades as the two powers increasingly confront each other at sea. Pakistan is the only other country that has been granted access to the China’s Beidou satellite navigation system. It allows more precise guidance for missiles, ships and aircraft. China had agreed in 2015 to sell eight submarines to Pakistan in a deal worth up to $6 billion. An SEZ under the CPEC would be created in Pakistan to produce a new generation of fighter jets. For the first time, navigation systems, radar systems and onboard weapons would be built jointly by the countries at factories in Pakistan. The Chinese-designed JF-17 fighter jets have given Pakistan an alternative to the U.S.-built F-16 fighters. All computers now under govt. watch Part of: GS Mains III – Defence/Security issues; Cyber Security In news: Ministry of Home Affairs issued an order authorising 10 Central agencies to intercept, monitor, and decrypt “any information generated, transmitted, received or stored in any computer.” According to the order, the subscriber or service provider or any person in charge of the computer resource will be bound to extend all facilities and technical assistance to the agencies and failing to do will invite seven-year imprisonment and fine. Do you know? The MHA gave the authorisation under 69 (1) of the Information Technology Act, 2000 which says that the Central government can direct any agency after it is satisfied that it is necessary or expedient to do so in the “interest of the sovereignty or integrity of India, defence of India, security of the state, friendly relations with foreign states or public order or for preventing incitement to the commission of any cognizable offence relating to above or for investigation of any offence.” Miscellaneous may infuse ₹2,345 cr. more in debt-laden Air India (AI) and a separate sum of ₹1,300 crore for a special purpose vehicle (SPV) which houses the national carrier’s debt and non-core assets. Panel to review issues start-ups face on tax – CBDT said that an expert committee will be set up to look into all the taxation issues being faced by start-ups and angel investors. Start-ups are going to bring lot of innovation to the country and therefore, have to be supported in every possible manner. China looks to India as key market – As its trade war with the U.S. intensifies, China has started looking at India as a major market to sell its products and machinery. However, Indian companies want China to share its technology and even partner with them in its growth story rather than treating India purely as a market of its products. (MAINS FOCUS) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY TOPIC:General studies 2 and 3  Important aspects of governance, social justice Justice System Science and Technology Awareness in biotechnology Security issues DNA Technology (Use and Application) Regulation Bill, 2018 Introduction The draft DNA Technology (Use and Application) Regulation Bill has been by the Union Cabinet. It aims to create a national DNA database for solving crimes (offences under the Indian Penal Code) and also civil matters such as parentage disputes, emigration or immigration, and transplantation of human organs etc. It aims for expanding the application of DNA-based forensic technologies to support and strengthen the justice delivery system of the country. The Bill seeks to ensure that DNA test results are reliable and the data remain protected from misuse or abuse in terms of the privacy rights of our citizens. The below editorial assesses whether the draft Bill is better in present form or it requires changes. Do you know? The utility of DNA based technologies for solving crimes, and to identify missing persons, is well recognized across the world. The genes encoded in deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), which can be collected from blood, hair, skin cells and other such bodily substances, have undoubtedly proven to be an important tool in forensic science. Much like fingerprints, a person’s DNA profile is unique (except in the case of identical twins) and can, therefore, help in establishing the identity of, say, a suspect. Across the world, the use of DNA evidence has helped exonerate a number of innocent people from wrongful conviction, and has also helped find the guilty party in complex investigations. Code of Criminal Procedure in 2005 authorises investigating officers of a crime to collect a DNA sample from an accused with the help of a medical practitioner. Concerns with the draft Bill The draft statute not only disregards the serious ethical dilemmas that are attendant to the creation of a national DNA database, but also, contrary to established wisdom, virtually treats DNA as infallible, and as a solution to the many problems that ail the criminal justice system. Any infringement of civil liberties, caused by an almost indiscriminate collection of DNA, is seen as a legitimate trade-off made in the interests of ensuring superior justice delivery. Creating large databases is often not a cost-effective way to solve more crimes, and limited resources must be targeted effectively. Bill fatally ignores the disproportionality of the DNA bank that it seeks to create, and the invasiveness of its purport and reach, imposes a Faustian bargain on the citizen. *Faustian bargain – Faust, in the legend, traded his soul to the devil in exchange for knowledge. To “strike a Faustian bargain” is to be willing to sacrifice anything to satisfy a limitless desire for knowledge or power. The proposed law is not only decidedly vague on how it intends to maintain this DNA Bank, but it also conflates its objectives by allowing the collection of DNA evidence not only in aid of criminal investigations but also to aid the determination of civil disputes. Moreover, while consent is not required before bodily substances are drawn from a person accused and arrested for an offence punishable with either death or imprisonment for a term exceeding seven years, in all other cases a person refusing to part with genetic material can be compelled to do so if a Magistrate has reasonable cause to believe that such evidence would help establish a person’s guilt. Therefore, there’s no end to the state’s power in coercing a person to part with her DNA. The way ahead: The proposed Bill should provide a constitutionally sustainable model. Any meaningful right to privacy should include protection over the physical body. (Justice K.S. Puttaswamy (Retd) v. Union of India Judgment) In India, even illegally obtained evidence is admissible in a court of law, so long as the relevance and genuineness of such material can be established. The Bill’s failure to place sufficient checks on the use of DNA evidence collected in breach of the law makes the process altogether more frightening. It’s been reported previously that the Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics, whose director will occupy an ex officio place in the DNA Regulatory Board, already seeks information on a person’s caste during the collection of genetic material. One hardly needs to spell out the dangers inherent in gathering such data. To enact the law in its present form, therefore, would only add a new, menacing weapon to the state’s rapidly expanding surveillance mechanism. Connecting the dots: The DNA technology (use and application) Bill, 2018 can establish a balance between right to privacy and right to justice. Evaluate with suggestions. INTERNAL SECURITY TOPIC:General studies 2 Security issues Challenges to internal security through social media Need for strong Data Protection Law About: Some of the social networking platforms have come under tough scanner and are in news often for privacy breaches and misinformation campaigns (interfering in the election processes of major democracies etc). The latest in this torrent of disclosures is the investigation by The New York Times documenting a range of private deals struck by Facebook for reciprocal sharing of user data with the knowledge of top management. (Example - Cambridge Analytica exposé) Some deals permitted access even to private chats. (Violation of user trust by Facebook and Right to Privacy) Do you know? In India, there is lack of institutional capacity to respond to such challenges. There is no data protection authority or an office of a privacy commissioner to investigate and independently audit social networking platforms. WhatsApp-Facebook case Facebook changed its privacy policy after acquiring WhatsApp. It allowed sharing a user’s metadata between WhatsApp and Facebook, without clearly explaining what was being shared and how it was being used. Earlier, Facebook was not clearly stating how it would use the personal data of users on the Free Basics platform. Changes to these terms of service were challenged in a public interest petition in the Court. The WhatsApp-Facebook case is still pending in the Supreme Court. Many of these problems go much beyond Facebook, to the entire wave of digitisation from the big building blocks down to a fine grain of Indian society. All these triggered Union government to constitute a data protection committee headed by retired Supreme Court judge, Justice B.N. Srikrishna. Justice B.N. Srikrishna Committee Srikrishna panel had submitted a draft “The Personal Data Protection Bill, 2018” It recommended that critical personal data of Indian citizens be processed in centres located within the country. The government should notify categories of personal data that will be considered critical. The draft bill also provided for penalties for the data processor as well as compensation to the data principal to be imposed for violations of the data protection law. The Committee has made specific mention of the need for separate and more stringent norms for protecting the data of children It recommended that companies be barred from certain types of data processing such as behavioural monitoring, tracking, targeted advertising and any other type of processing which is not in the best interest of the child. The way ahead: Need of the hour is such a law to safeguard privacy. However, the draft Personal Data Protection Bill is not listed for the ongoing winter session of Parliament. The government must act with urgency. To properly harness digitisation, we now have the challenge of developing and prioritising institutions of governance to protect users. This must start immediately with a strong, rights-protecting, comprehensive privacy law. At present, despite having the second highest number of Internet users in the world, India has little to show as a country in investigatory outcomes, measured regulatory responses or parliamentary processes which safeguard users. Connecting the dots: The dawn of the information age has opened up great opportunities for the beneficial use of data. However, it has also enhanced the perils of unregulated and arbitrary use of personal data. Discuss. Also, examine the need of framing a robust law to protect individual data. (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 among the following are the objectives behind government fund infusion in public sector banks? To help banks meet regulatory capital norms Enable better performing PCA (prompt corrective action) banks to get capital Infuse funds into non-PCA banks that are closer to the red line and Give regulatory and growth capital to banks that are being amalgamated Choose the correct answer: 1 and 4 only 1, 2 and 4 1 and 3 only 1, 2, 3 and 4 Q.2) Consider the following with regard to ISRO’s Small Satellite Launch Vehicles (SSLV): It offers affordable launch options for smaller satellites. SSLV is expected to reduce launch time as well as cost less to launch small satellites. SSLV has three solid motor stages like the PSLV and GSLV; however it cannot accommodate multiple satellites. Unlike the PSLV and GSLV, the SSLV can be assembled both vertically and horizontally. Which of the statements given above are correct? 1 and 2 only 1, 2 and 4 1 and 3 only 1, 2, 3 and 4 Q.3) What is the full form of ASLV? Automatic Satellite Launch Vehicle Augmented Satellite Launch Vehicle Aero Space Launch Vehicle Area Satellite Launch Vehicle Q.4) ‘Karamay Declaration’ is associated with which of the following? INSTC CPEC TAPI SCO Q.5) Which of the following countries is developing BeiDou Navigation Satellite system to rival USA’s GPS? Russia Japan China North Korea MUST READ  Against the mandate for inclusion: the Transgender Persons Bill 2018 The Hindu  Long road home: Hamid Nihal Ansari's return   The Hindu  GDP and its assumptions  Indian Express  Hindu, not Hindutva Indian Express It is not bottom up Indian Express The political economy of the persistent agrarian crisis Livemint Citizen-led employment generation is what’s needed Livemint

Dec 23, 2018 Motivational Articles

Creative Guidance – Science of Meditation – Inspirational Educative Articles

Science of Meditation: Meditation is probably the simplest of daily routines we can pick up that can increase our physical and mental wellbeing tremendously. At the most basic level, meditation is a process of consciously watching our thoughts, emotions, feelings and desires to understand them better. This is why sitting quiet is a very important component of meditation. Although meditation is one of the most ancient of sciences, it is more relevant to our modern lifestyles today than ever before. Our lifestyle has become so mechanistic and stressful that finding a way to relax our mind and body is very important. Meditation helps us to reduce our stress levels significantly. It also helps us to handle our emotions better. Stress is a direct consequence of uncontrolled thought processes. When certain thoughts take over us fully, and we are not able to find our inner silence, stress is a natural consequence. Meditation works directly to help us overcome stress by illuminating the understanding of our thought processes better. The more we understand our thought processes, the easier it becomes to be in control of them. Meditation has absolutely nothing to do with sitting cross legged, chanting some mantras or holding your breath. Meditation is a very natural process of sitting in a comfortable posture and allowing your mind and body to relax. Relaxation is the key to meditation. You can choose any posture that is comfortable for your meditation. You can sit on a chair or go underwater, it simply doesn’t matter; although, it might be a little difficult to stay relaxed under water! Pick a comfortable posture, but not so comfortable that it puts you to sleep. A posture that can help you to relax and at the same time stay alert is the best posture. You can lighten up the mood with some pleasant instrumental music. Assigning a designated place for meditation will work wonders in setting your biological clock to remember your daily meditations. The place itself will remind you of your meditation. Choose a quiet place and set an alarm for the duration of your choice. 15 to 30 min is good meditation duration. Sit comfortably, close your eyes, and begin to watch your breath. Keep your focus on the flowing in and out breath throughout the practice. With every breath, try and relax your mind a body a little more. It is amazing how much we can relax if we consciously try. That’s it. That is all meditation is - sitting quiet and keeping your focus on the breath. The magic of meditation is actually not in the technique, it is in what happens to your mind while you are practicing a technique. The constantly noisy and chaotic mind will begin to settle down after few days of regular practice of meditation. This will significantly improve your clarity of perception, your ability to stay relaxed and your ability to handle difficult life situations. Meditation impacts many dimensions of our lives positively. It helps us to understand ourselves better, hence increases our self-confidence. It helps us to stay calm and relaxed during certain stressful situations. It increases our ability to recollect things, which drastically improves our memory. It also helps us to function in a more conscious way, helping us to avoid unnecessary daily repetitions and mistakes. Meditation has absolutely nothing to do with religion. It is purely a scientific process. Science is all about observation and understanding what is happening around us. Similarly meditation is all about observing and understanding what is happening within us. If external science has created such wonders, just imagine what this inner science can do to your life. “This article is a part of the creative endeavor of Inner Revolution and IASBABA.”

Dec 21, 2018 AIR

All India Radio (AIR) IAS UPSC - Contribution of Dairy Farming in the Economy

Contribution of Dairy Farming in the Economy ARCHIVES Search 27th November, 2018 Money Talk here: http://www.newsonair.com/Audio-Archive-Search.aspx TOPIC: General Studies 2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. General Studies 3: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment Milk production is a very important element of the whole dairy chain. Dairy cooperatives, helped to create strong network and linkages in millions of rural households scattered across the country. Milk contributes close to the 1/3rd of gross income of rural households. The livestock sector contributes to 4% of India’s GDP and the dairy sector comprises majority of share. A sustained growth of milk production in India, growing at a CAGR of 5 per cent between 2010-16, and the leading position of milk among all the agricultural commodities have placed dairy in the forefront of the government’s commitment to double farmers’ income by 2022. Key Challenges of the Dairy Sector in India Quality a big concern – More than 70% of marketable surplus goes through informal channel where quality is a big concern. Sometimes quality is an issue in the formal channel as well. Quality of milk or value-added products are a barrier to entry to the export market, especially the USA and the EU. Poor governance of cooperatives - Prices decided by cooperatives are not based on fat measurement, which affects farmer’s profitability. In addition, lower prices declared by cooperatives, results in low prices of milk paid by all the players in the industry. Non-existent of extension facilities: Lack of adequate breeding and preventive care services to improve animal health, along with low access to credit and risk-taking ability makes farmers unable to increase their herd size. Taxation on value added products: Taxation on value added products would cause the industry to reduce the milk prices paid to the dairy farmers. High rate might also increase the consumer prices of dairy products substantially. The Way Forward Milk is highly perishable, therefore value addition such as processing, packaging, and conversion to long life products, such as sterilized milks (UHT), dahi, paneer, chhachh, lassi, shrikhand and so on, is more a necessity than a luxury. It is crucial that a softer view is taken while imposing GST and imperative to create special class for dairy products with minimum value-addition. The government should have a farmer-centric approach, as perhaps milk is the only industry that is able to pay to the dairy farmers more than 2/3 of price charged to the consumer. No other food processing industry in India is able to meet such high expectations of the farmers. Tax exemption on dairy industry should not be considered as a loss to the national exchequer but an investment that would spur growth in milk production, which eventually would enhance rural prosperity and increase the farmer’s income. In addition, there should be level playing field for private players and the cooperatives. There is very low competition to cooperatives because private sector was not allowed to participate until recently. Lastly, grants to be provided to strengthen extension services in areas of animal husbandry. Budget allocation to develop infrastructure setup in the milk procurement area for small and medium size operations, and subsidies to encourage rural entrepreneurship in areas of milk procurement such as collection center setup and credit correspondents. The government should establish formal breeding centres and subsequent sale of such cows and buffaloes to the farmers. It falls upon the government to bring some of the best technologies from Israel, as the private sector will be never be making such investments. In addition to the breeding centres, formal cow hostels, with the best milking technologies from Israel should be established. Note: Vision 2022: National Action Plan on Dairy Development (NAPDD) Objective: To bring dairying in sync with its grand vision of doubling farmers’ income Envisages increasing milk production to 300 million tonnes by 2023-24. To realise the desired milk production targets, the plan projects to increase the in-milk bovine population from 88 million to 116.38 million and average milk yield per bovine from 4.35 kg/day to 7kg/day between 2015-2023 Must Read: Link 1 + Link 2 + Mindmap Connecting the Dots: Dairy farming can’t sustain itself without a vibrant livestock processing industry. Comment. Dairy farming is a source of income and nutrition to a large number of Indian families. What are the typical features of the dairy sector in India? What are the problems being faced by the sector? Also, suggest a roadmap for improving the performance of the dairy sector.