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PIB

IASbaba PIB Weekly : Press Information Bureau – 1st July to 7th July, 2018

IASbaba Press Information Bureau 1st to 7th July, 2018 ARCHIVES GS-2 Agreement signed on repatriation of Bru persons to Mizoram (Topic: 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) In a major breakthrough on repatriation of displaced Bru persons from Mizoram since 1997, an agreement has been signed by Government of India, Governments of Mizoram and Tripura and Mizoram Bru Displaced People’s Forum (MBDPF) 5,407 families comprising of 32,876 persons presently in temporary camps in Tripura will repatriate to Mizoram before 30th Sept., 2018 Government of India will provide financial assistance for rehabilitation of Brus in Mizoram and address their issues of security, education, livelihood etc. in consultation with Governments of Mizoram and Tripura. The tribe: Bru (or Reang) tribals inhabit parts of some Northeastern states. In Mizoram, they are largely restricted to Mamit and Kolasib districts. Why 32,000 Bru tribals from Mizoram were stuck in Tripura for 21 years? In 1995, following a clash between Mizos and Brus, the Young Mizo Association and Mizo Students’ Association demanded that Brus be removed from the state’s electoral rolls, contending that the tribe was not indigenous to Mizoram. This led to an armed movement led by the militant outfit Bru National Liberation Front (BNLF), and a political one by the Bru National Union (BNU). On October 21, 1997, BNLF militants killed a forest official in Mizoram, leading to retaliatory ethnic violence. The BNU, which was demanding an autonomous tribal district, claimed that 1,391 Bru houses in 41 villages were burnt down and several people were raped and killed. Mizoram police put the number of homes torched at 325 in 16 villages, and did not confirm rape or murder. A large number of Bru families fled to North Tripura. Thousands of families, with some 30,000 members, were given shelter in six relief camps in Kanchanpur and Panisagar subdivisions. Cabinet approves Accession to WIPO Copyright Treaty, 1996 and WIPO Performance and Phonograms Treaty, 1996 Proposal: It is regarding accession to the WIPO Copyright Treaty and WIPO Performers and Phonograms Treaty which extends coverage of copyright to the internet and digital environment The approval is a step towards the objective laid in the National Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Policy adopted by the Government on 12thMay 2016 which aims to get value for IPRs through commercialization by providing guidance and support to EPR owners about commercial opportunities of e-commerce through Internet and mobile platforms. Meeting the demand of the copyright industries, these treaties will help India: To enable creative right-holders enjoy the fruit of their labour, through international copyright system that can be used to secure a return on the investment made in producing and distributing creative works; To facilitate international protection of domestic rights holder by providing them level-playing field in other countries as India already extends protection to foreign works through the International Copyright order and these treaties will enable Indian right holders to get reciprocal protection abroad; To instil confidence and distribute creative works in digital environment with return on investment; and To spur business growth and contribute to the development of a vibrant creative economy and cultural landscape Berne Convention: The Berne Convention for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works, usually known as the Berne Convention, is an international agreement governing copyright, which was first accepted in Berne, Switzerland, in 1886. The Berne Convention formally mandated several aspects of modern copyright law; it introduced the concept that a copyright exists the moment a work is "fixed", rather than requiring registration. It also enforces a requirement that countries recognize copyrights held by the citizens of all other parties to the convention. Renewal of MoU between the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India & Saudi Organisation for Certified Public Accountants: To promote mutual co-operation framework in the areas of Corporate Governance, Technical Research & Advice, Quality Assurance, Forensic Accounting, issues for Small and Medium Sized Practices (SMPs), Islamic Finance, Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and other subjects of mutual interest related to Accountancy profession Develop a mutually beneficial relationship in the best interest of ICAI members, students and their organizations. Provide an opportunity to the ICAI members to expand their professional horizons and simultaneously ICAI will become an entity to aid and strengthen capacity building of local nationals. Enable ICAI to promote the Accounting and Auditing profession and all matters that might lead to the development of the profession and improve its status. Foster strong working relations between the ICAI & SOCPA thus giving strong professional opportunities to Indian Chartered Accountants in India and more confidence to employers in Eastern Province, thus creating significant employment opportunities for Indian Chartered Accountants. Umbrella Schemes – Relief and Rehabilitation of Migrants and Repatriates Central Assistance for one-time settlement of displaced families from Pak Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) and Chhamb settled in the State of Jammu & Kashmir. Rehabilitation   Package and up-gradation   of infrastructure of the Bangladeshi Enclaves and Cooch Behar District after transfer of enclaves between India and Bangladesh under Land Boundary Agreement Relief assistance to Sri Lankan refugees staying in camps in Tamil Nadu and Odisha Grant-in-Aid to Central Tibetan Relief Committee (CTRC) for five years for administrative and social welfare expenses of Tibetan settlements. Grant-in-Aid to Government of Tripura for maintenance of Brus lodged in relief camps of Tripura. Rehabilitation of Bru/Reang families from Tripura to Mizoram Grant of enhanced relief of Rs. 5.00 lakh per deceased person, who died during 1984 Anti-Sikh Riots Central Scheme for Assistance to Civilian Victims/Family of Victims of Terrorist/Communal/LWE Violence and Cross Border Firing and Mine/IED blasts on Indian Territory' Extension of Scheme of Recapitalization of Regional Rural Banks upto 2019-20: Enable the RRBs to maintain the minimum prescribed Capital to Risk Weighted Assets Ratio (CRAR) of 9 per cent. A strong capital structure and minimum required level of CRAR will ensure financial stability of RRBs which will enable them to play a greater role in financial inclusion and meeting the credit requirements of rural areas. RRBs: RRBs were set up with the objective to provide credit and other facilities, especially to the small and marginal farmers, agricultural labourers, artisans and small entrepreneurs in rural areas for development of agriculture, trade, commerce, industry and other productive activities. RRBs are jointly owned by Government of India, the concerned State Government and Sponsor Banks with the issued capital shared in the proportion of 50%, 15% and 35% respectively. MoU between India and United Kingdom on cooperation in the sphere of Law & Justice and establishing a Joint Consultative Committee DNA Technology (Use and Application) Regulation Bill, 2018: For expanding the application of DNA-based forensic technologies to support and strengthen the justice delivery system of the country. By providing for the mandatory accreditation and regulation of DNA laboratories, the Bill seeks to ensure that with the proposed expanded use of this technology in the country, there is also the assurance that the DNA test results are reliable and the data remain protected from misuse or abuse in terms of the privacy rights of our citizens. Speedier justice delivery Increased conviction rate Bill's provisions will enable the cross-matching between persons who have been reported missing on the one hand and unidentified dead bodies found in various parts of the country on the other, and also for establishing the identity of victims in mass disasters. Revitalising Infrastructure and Systems in Higher Education (RISE) by 2022: Has approved the proposal for expanding the scope of Higher Education Financing Agency (HEFA) by enhancing its capital base to Rs. 10,000 crore and tasking it to mobilise Rs. 1,00,000 crore for Revitalizing Infrastructure and Systems in Education (RISE) by 2022. HEFA: Set up on 31st May 2017 by the Central Government as a Non ­Profit, Non-Banking Financing Company (NBFC) for mobilising extra-budgetary resources for building crucial infrastructure in the higher educational institutions under Central Govt. State-of-the-art labs and research facilities will help in retaining the brightest young minds in India, and will attract Overseas Citizens of India back to Indian universities which will convert brain drain to brain gain. The objectives of RISE by 2022 are: Qualitatively upgrade the research and academic infrastructure in India to global best standards by 2022. Make India into an education hub by making available high quality research infrastructure in Indian higher educational institutions. To allow access of HEFA funding to institutions like Central Universities, AIIMS, IISERs and newly created Institutes of National Importance, without creating any additional burden to the students. To bring greater accountability and speed in execution of infrastructure projects and avoid all cost/time over-runs, moving from the block-grant mode to project-mode for all infrastructure projects. To cater to the requirements of the Kendriya Vidyalayas and Navodaya Vidyalayas, and medical institutions like AIIMSs in a faster time frame. Please Note: cVIGIL: To report violations of Model Code of Conduct (MCC) that comes into effect from the date of announcement of elections and goes on till a day after the polls. By using this app, citizens can immediately report on incidents of misconduct within minutes of having witnessed them and without having to rush to the office of the returning officer to lodge a complaint. Behdienkhlam: 4-day Meghalaya Annual Cultural Festival of the Jaintia tribe, held every year at the small peripheral town of Jowai, Meghalaya. Celebrated in the month of July for good health, property and bumper harvest The non-Christian ‘Pnar’ people who believe either in the traditional faith of ‘Niamtre’ or Hinduism observe this festival. Creation of National Health Stack: Envisages a centralized health record for all citizens of the country in order to streamline the health information and facilitate effective management of the same. The proposed NHS is an approach to address the challenge and seeks to employ latest technology including Big Data Analytics and Machine Learning Artificial Intelligence, a state of the art Policy Mark-up Language and create a unified health identity of citizens - as they navigate across services across levels of care, i.e. Primary, Secondary and Tertiary and also across Public and Private. The innovativeness of the proposed National Health Stack design lies in its ability to leverage a shared public good – a strong digital spine built with a deep understanding of the incentive structures of the system. Once implemented, the National Health Stack will significantly bring down the costs of health protection, converge disparate systems to ensure a cashless and seamlessly integrated experience for the poorest beneficiaries, and promote wellness across the population. Ayushman Bharat Yojana: To develop a wellness focused strategy, ensuring cost effective healthcare for all. The program leverages a two-pronged approach: On the supply side, substantial investments will be made to build 1.5 lakh health and wellness centers offering preventive and primary care; and On the demand side, the Pradhan Mantri-Rashtriya Swasthya Suraksha Mission (PM-RSSM) will create a national insurance cover of up to 5 lakhs per year per family for over 10 crores households, towards secondary and tertiary care. Launch of Web GIS application called ‘Coal Mine Surveillance & Management System (CMSMS): Reporting, monitoring and taking suitable action on unauthorised coal mining activities - location of sites for unauthorised mining can be detected Launch of mobile app called ‘Khan Prahari’: Tool for reporting any activity taking place related to illegal coal mining like rat hole mining, pilferage etc. One can upload geo-tagged photographs of the incident along with textual information directly to the system. Hence, both satellite data and human information will be used to capture information on the unauthorised mining activities. Successful flight testing of Crew Escape System - Technology Demonstrator: ISRO carried out a major technology demonstration today, the first in a series of tests to qualify a Crew Escape System, which is a critical technology relevant for human spaceflight. The Crew Escape System is an emergency escape measure designed to quickly pull the crew module along with the astronauts to a safe distance from the launch vehicle in the event of a launch abort. The first test (Pad Abort Test) demonstrated the safe recovery of the crew module in case of any exigency at the launch pad. Asian Ministerial Conference for Disaster Risk Reduction (AMCDRR): Being held at Ulaan Baatar (capital and largest city of Mongolia) India advocated for greater investment in disaster resilience, mainstreaming disaster resilience in infrastructure development, and improving Early Warning Systems, particularly for recurrent hazards such as heat waves. Emphasized that without mainstreaming of Disaster Risk Reduction in development it will be nearly impossible to achieve the loss reduction targets –in mortality, number of affected people, economic losses and infrastructure losses -- enshrined in the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction. In this regard, work on resilient infrastructure is very strategic and can spawn positive changes more widely. Personality in News: Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee An Indian politician, barrister and academician, who served as Minister for Industry and Supply in Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru's cabinet Founded the right wing nationalist political party Bharatiya Jana Sangh, a predecessor to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), in 1951. Strongly opposed to Article 370 Founder of Bhartiya Janta Party

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 19]

UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 19] Archives Q.1) ‘Basavanna’ is associated with which of the following? Vaisheshika Mimamsa Nyaya None of the above Q.2) Consider the following statements about National Testing Agency (NTA) The idea of NTA was first recommended in the national education policy 1986 It replaced the CBSE examination conducting units Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) Consider the following statements about European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) It was established to help build a new, post-Cold War era in Central and Eastern Europe Only the members of European Union can be members of the EBRD Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4) Section 497 of the Indian Penal Code is concerned with Adultery Criminal Breach of Contracts of Service Defamation Offences affecting the Human Body Q.5) Which of the following statements about ‘Iberian Peninsula’ is/are correct? Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory located on the southern end of the Iberian Peninsula It is the largest European Peninsula Both (a) nor (b) Neither (a) nor (b) To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

RSTV Video

RSTV- Real Story of Surgical Strike

Real Story of Surgical Strike Archives TOPIC: General Studies 2 India and its neighbourhood- relations. Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests General Studies 3 Role of external state and non-state actors in creating challenges to internal security. Security challenges and their management in border areas On the intervening night of September 28-29, 2016, Indian Army carried out surgical strikes against terror launch pads in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), just eleven days after the Uri attack which had claimed the lives of 18 soldiers. The army launched the attack targeting Pakistani terrorists positioned across the Line of Control. Post the Uri attack, there was an immediate volley of criticism against the army for its inability to protect its camps, for learning no lessons from the past, and for its helplessness in not being able to take the battle to Pakistan. This ‘surgical strike’ exhibited Indian resolve to cross a mental barrier in the form of ‘Line of Control’, under a nuclear hangover. The necessity was well established as Pakistan continued to launch a proxy war against India by infiltrating terrorists, targeting military camps and civilians, including attacks on families of security forces in Uri and Pathankot. Politically Speaking – The operation not just surprised Pakistan but, for the first time, political leadership in India acknowledged the trans-LoC operations. The political aim of the surgical strikes was to demonstrate to its own people the government’s will to respond boldly to a terror strike which emanated from Pakistan. But Pakistan refused to accept that such a military operation took place inside its territory. By denying the existence of surgical strikes, the Pakistan army was able to avoid public pressure which would have forced it to retaliate against India. What is a Surgical Strike? A surgical strike is a swift attack undertaken by military on specific targets with the aim to neutralise them while ensuring minimum collateral damage to the surrounding areas and civilians, and a subsequent return to primary positions. It also prevents escalation to a full-blown war. These attacks can be carried out via air raids, airdropping special operation teams or a ground operation. All three Indian armed forces have their separate special ops teams. It requires detailed and extensive planning to carry out surgical strikes and achieve the objective. External intelligence is vital to carry out these strikes. What did India achieve? A “moral” victory: This action besides demonstrating the firm intent of India to use national power gave an important strategic signalling. Shattered the glass ceiling: India’s ‘Special Forces’ have gained “tremendous confidence” to do similar operations again. It is justifiably proud of its professionalism in planning and conducting the operation, without any fatal casualty to the soldiers. Militarily: Deter the Pakistan army from sending infiltrators across the LoC, to stop it from fomenting violence in Kashmir, reduce casualties of Indian soldiers and to bring a semblance of peace and calmness to the LoC The Way Forward: Over-politicisation of surgical strikes need to stop: There has been too much politicking, with the army needlessly dragged into this controversy. Bringing of the military into the political discourse has the danger of completely vitiating any sensible debate. Surgical strikes were conducted in the interest of national security, not for political mileage. Capacity building of our defence forces: Indian security forces need strike drones and modern surveillance equipment very urgently. Over-expectations are not good: One such strike can never force Pakistan Army to mend its ways. India just had to break this myth of Pakistan going nuclear to prove that the space for conventional war exists. Surgical Strikes are not the answer to terrorism: If one thinks that the country can be freed of terrorism with surgical strikes, it’s a huge mistake. To destroy a terrorist base is not the same as destroying terrorism. Terrorism is an effect and not a cause. It is important to address the cause to eradicate it entirely. A lasting solution would require a formula that accommodates both Kashmir and Pakistan. Kashmir lies at the heart of the cross-border terrorism problem, together with the support terrorism gets from Pakistan. Relations should not be severed, talks should continue - that’s the right thing to do. Note: The surgical strikes were the first time the political leadership owned trans-LoC operations and marked a huge shift in the sanctity of the LoC as a de-facto international boundary. During the 1999 Kargil War, when the LoC had been respected as a not-to-be-crossed red line by the previous NDA government even though the Pakistan army had openly breached it. Connecting the Dots: A well thought, coherent, long-term, policy on Kashmir is needed. Examine. The surgical strike conducted on the land of Pakistan by India has been a matter of intense debate recently. In the light of global war against terrorims and Indo- Pak relations, what is your opinion on surgical strikes as a weapon to fight terrorism?

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs [Prelims + Mains Focus] - 9th July 2018

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 9th July 2018 Archives (PRELIMS+MAINS FOCUS) Ayushman Bharat National Health Protection Scheme (AB-NHPS) Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – Government schemes and policies; Health About: PM Modi’s ambitious scheme aims to provide coverage of ₹5 lakh per family annually and benefiting more than 10 crore poor families in the country. AB-NHPM will subsume the on-going centrally sponsored schemes — Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY) and the Senior Citizen Health Insurance Scheme (SCHIS). Salient features of the AB-NHPM scheme: This scheme has the benefit cover of Rs. 5 lakh per family per year. The target beneficiaries of the proposed scheme will be more than 10 crore families belonging to poor and vulnerable population based on SECC database. The Rs. 5 lakh per family a year cover will take care of almost all secondary care and most of tertiary care procedures. To ensure that nobody is left out (especially women, children and elderly) there will be no cap on family size and age in the scheme. The benefit cover will also include pre- and post-hospitalisation expenses. All pre-existing conditions will be covered from day one of the policy. A defined transport allowance per hospitalisation will also be paid to the beneficiary. Also, benefits of the scheme are portable across the country and a beneficiary covered under the scheme will be allowed to take cashless benefits from any public/private empanelled hospital across the country. AB-NHPM will be an entitlement based scheme with entitlement decided on the basis of deprivation criteria in the SECC database. Operation Sagar Rani – find Formalin in fishes Part of: GS prelims – Health and social issue; Science and Technology (Recap) June 25th 2018 DNA – Operation Sagar Rani From the previous article, we know that – Contaminated fishes preserved using formalin (formaldehyde) were seized in Kerala and also in Tamil Nadu. Formalin, a cancer-inducing chemical, is used to prolong the shelf-life of fish. Formalin causes irritation in the eyes, throat, skin and stomach. In the long run continued exposure causes harm to the kidneys, liver and can even cause cancers. Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) officials have been undertaking tests  (under Operation Sagar Rani) It ensures the safety of fish sold in the market and ensures that it was handled hygienically at the handling and distribution centres. Pic link: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/b8n79s/article24369379.ece/alternates/FREE_615/vbk-fish11 Article link: Fish samples test positive for formalin - NATIONAL (MAINS FOCUS) NATIONAL/POLITY TOPIC:General Studies 2: Indian Constitution- historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure. Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure, devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein. Separation of powers between various organs dispute redressal mechanisms and institutions. Government of NCT of Delhi v. Union of India Background: Delhi forms a unique category. Its governance has been a vexatious issue since Independence. In July 1947, the Pattabhi Sitaramayya committee was set up to report on Constitutional changes in the administrative structure of the Chief Commissioner's Provinces. This included Delhi. The Committee was of the opinion that the “province which contains the metropolis of India should not be deprived of the right of self-government enjoyed by the rest of their countrymen living in the smallest of villages.” However, members of the Drafting Committee of the Constituent Assembly, including Nehru and Ambedkar, felt that the national capital could not be placed under a local government. Deshbandhu Gupta – the sole representative of Delhi in the Assembly, made vociferous demands for full-statehood. However, ultimately the Constituent Assembly classified Delhi as a Union Territory. Numerous amendments to the Constitution have changed the nature of government in Delhi over the years. These culminated in the 69th Amendment of 1991, by which Article 239AA was introduced. Special status of Delhi Article 239AA of the Constitution provides for a legislative assembly in Delhi and the Article provides the legal framework within which Delhi is to be governed. Article 239AA(3)(a) vests the Delhi Assembly with the power to make laws for the whole or any part of the National Capital Territory with respect to any of the matters enumerated in the 'State List' or in the 'Concurrent List' (except police, public order and land). Article 239AA(4) provides for a council of ministers “to aid and advise the L-G”. The proviso to the Article provides that “in case of difference of opinion between the L-G and his ministers on any matter, the L-G shall refer it to the President for decision.” Bone of contention: The primary dispute before the Court was related to the interpretation of the phrases “any of the matters” and “aid and advise”. Additionally, the scope of the L-G’s discretion to refer matters to the President was a point in issue. The Judgement: “Nations fail when institutions of governance fail. The working of a democratic institution is impacted by the statesmanship (or the lack of it) shown by those in whom the electorate vests the trust to govern” – writes Justice D.Y. Chandrachud. The above view is in concurrent to recent judgment of the Supreme Court on the powers of the Delhi government and the lieutenant governor. Supreme Court's verdict: Delhi government has power in all areas except land, police and public order. Lt. Governor is bound by the aid and advice of the NCT govt in areas other than those exempted. It noted that there is no room for anarchy or absolutism in a democracy. Conclusion: The respect for institutions has been declining in India in recent years, but respect for the Supreme Court continues to be very high. Cutting to the heart of all the political and constitutional wrangling, the judgment unanimously affirms the principle of an elected representative being vested with the power to administer democratically. It negates the bureaucratic usurpation of power that sought to operate in constitutional interstices, at the instance of an inimical central government. Connecting the dots: The circumstances in which the L-G may have a difference of opinion with the Delhi government remain unclear. Do you agree? Discuss. Discuss the essentials of the 69th Constitutional Amendment Act and anomalies, if any that have led to recent reported conflicts between the elected representatives and the institution of the Lieutenant Governor in the administration of Delhi. Do you think that this will give rise to a new trend in the functioning of the Indian federal politics? ENVIRONMENT TOPIC:General Studies 3 Biodiversity, Environment and Disaster Management Environment - Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment Trees outside a forest There has been incidents of protests in some of India’s largest cities (these include Delhi and Mumbai) to save natural trees in urban spaces. Hundreds of Delhi residents took to the streets in protest against a plan to have 14,000 trees cut for the “redevelopment” of government colonies in South Delhi. In Mumbai, citizens have been fighting for years to save over 2,000 trees in Aarey, slated to be felled for another kind of development — to make way for a metro line car shed. Do you know? Urban trees, which are outside of a lush forest, usually miss to get same ecological attention as trees in forests or in national parks get. To most of us, city trees are to genuine forests what gardens are to jungles or fish tanks are to the ocean--pocket-size imitations of the wild world, decorative perhaps but playing no real role in the global ecosystem. But urban trees are a lot more important than that, and at the moment, they're in decline. Failing to protect city trees The UN’s REDD, or Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation in Developing Countries, programme lays emphasis on planting and maintaining forests as a means to counter climate change. In India, forests are governed under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, State laws, and the Indian Forest Act, 1927 – lay down elaborate rules for the conservation and diversion of forests. (Usually, trees in cities come under State Tree Acts.) Despite this, forests are the first targets when it comes to projects such as mining, dams, highways, industrial projects and so on, to be offset by compensatory afforestation. Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change had pronounced that – diversion of forest should be seen as ‘reforestation’. As far as the issue of trees outside forest areas is concerned — city trees — the situation is much worse. Conclusion: As India moves towards more urbanisation, it is important to look at cities more as shared habitats between humans and biodiversity, rather than a jungle of buildings. Cities are becoming progressively more unliveable - with its year-round hazardous air quality and an increase in cars and inhabitants. To beat the urban heat island effect we need to ensure that we pay for planning as well as planting. This means proper species selection and future maintenance of tall, mature trees. Connecting the dots: Critically discuss the impact of ecological imbalance by deforestation and unsustainable urbanization. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Q.1) Operation Sagar Rani deals with – modernization of India's existing ports and development of 14 Coastal Employment Zones return of Druv helicopters from Maldives to India safety of fish sold in the market defence arrangements across Indian Ocean Rim region Q.2) Government of India has announced World’s largest government funded Health scheme of the World. Which of the following statements are correct regarding National Health Protection Scheme? It is intended to cover 10 crore poor and vulnerable families. Under the scheme, beneficiary families will be provided 5 lakh cover per family annually for treatment. People will get medical treatment in secondary and tertiary hospitals. Select the code from below: 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.3) Consider the following statements with reference to the Ayushman Bharat-National Health Protection Scheme (AB-NHPS) The scheme will provide a cover of Rs.5 lakh per family per year. Only hospitalization expenses will be a part of the cover. It will subsume Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY) and the Senior Citizen Health Insurance Scheme (SCHIS). Which of the statements given above are correct? 1 and 2 1 and 3 2 and 3 1, 2 and 3 MUST READ The numbers don’t add up The Hindu No one wins: on the US-China trade war The Hindu A tale of two economies: the US and the UK The Hindu Resolving the farmer-consumer binary Indian Express In Good Faith: The tyranny of positive thinking Indian Express The food economy: A Catch-22 for policymakers Livemint Higher MSPs do not truly benefit farmers Indian Express

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 18]

UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 18] Archives Q.1) Which of the following countries shares its borders with Caspian Sea? Russia Azerbaijan Georgia Select the correct code: 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.2) United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) focuses on Disaster management Democratic governance Climate resilience Select the correct code: 1 and 2 2 Only 1, 2 and 3 2 and 3 Q.3) Consider the following statements about ‘Washington Convention’ It is a multilateral treaty to protect endangered plants and animals India is a party to the convention It is legally binding on the Parties Select the correct statements 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.4) An interim mechanism called the ‘Peace Clause’ is available for developing nations. It is concerned with International Monetary Fund (IMF) World Trade Organisation (WTO) UNFCC International Solar Alliance (ISA) Q.5) Defence Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI) is often in news in the context of India and Israel Japan France USA To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

Yojana

YOJANA & KURUKSHETRA Magazine: JUNE 2018

Archives Friends, Here we are with the JUNE 2018, edition of Yojana and Kurukshetra. Yojana/Kurukshetra: JUNE 2018 – Download Download Mind Maps -  1. Click here 2. Click here 3. Click here 4. Click here 5. Click here 6. Click here

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs [Prelims + Mains Focus] - 7th July 2018

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 7th July 2018 Archives (PRELIMS+MAINS FOCUS) Centre-Delhi power tussle Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – Indian Polity; Centre-State/UTs relations; Governance In news: Recently, we read that Supreme Court in its verdict pronounced that Delhi government has power in all areas except land, police and public order and the Lt. Governor is bound by the aid and advice of the NCT govt in areas other than those exempted. However, issue of ‘services’ continue to remain the bone of contention with neither side willing to relent on the right to exercise control over bureaucrats, mainly those belonging to the All India Services cadre, posted in the Capital. Do you know? Article 239AA deals with Special Status of Delhi Under Article 163, the governor has to act on the aid and advice of the council of minister except in the case where he has to exercise his discretion Article link: Delhi standoff over control of 'services' continues - The Hindu Extended Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (EGSA) Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – Government schemes and policies; Rural development In news: Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (GSA) and EGSA Launched on April 14, the Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (GSA) aims to improve socio-economic conditions of villages. GSA aims to provide poor households with electricity, insurance, LPG connections and other such facilities. The Centre’s model-village scheme will now include 12 welfare flagship programmes and has been extended to more villages. [therefore the name - Extended Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (EGSA)] Phase I – Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (GSA) The first phase, between April and May, comprised seven schemes — LPG connection, free LED bulbs and electricity, Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, accident and life insurances and Mission Indradhanush, a vaccination programme. Phase II – EGSA The second phase added five new initiatives – which will concentrate on improving schools, health services and nutrition and launching agricultural projects and a skill development programme. The second phase will cover 49,175 villages, up from 16,850 in the first phase. Recently, govt. deployed 800 IAS officers for village outreach (to ensure delivery of Central welfare schemes via EGSA) Article link: Govt. deploys 800 IAS officers for village outreach Alternative cereals can improve water use and nutrient supply in India Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Agriculture and irrigation; Environment and Conservation of biodiversity Key pointers: (according to a study) If Indian farmers were to switch from growing rice and wheat to ‘alternative cereals,’ such as maize, sorghum, and millet, it could reduce the demand for irrigation water by 33%. This could also improve nutritional availability to consumers. Do you know? Rice is the least water-efficient cereal when it came to producing nutrients, and was the main driver in increasing irrigation stresses. Article link:'Alternative cereals can save water' (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, Indian diaspora. Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate. The new trade order: Tariff War In news: U.S. and China launched tit-for-tat tariffs on each other’s imports. US increased 25% duties on Chinese machinery, electronics and hi-tech equipment, including autos, computer hard drives and LEDs. Economists have warned that the escalating trade frictions could throttle global growth. From previous articles, we already know that – Below picture shows US trade war with allies and partners. Pic link: https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2018/07/06/HYD/Hyderabad/TH/5_12/63fe6f34_2224070_101_mr.jpg Assessment: Why US (Trump administration) is launching its trade wars? Since the start of the year, U.S. President Donald Trump has lashed out at allies and adversaries alike on trade. Often, as with India, the U.S. has pushed for enhanced security cooperation at the same time it declared trade relations a national security threat. There are at least three possible explanations for trade wars launched by Trump administration: complaints about Chinese practices preoccupation with meaningless bilateral trade deficits a straightforward desire to block trade Wall of Protectionism Among the above three options, the best possibility point to the last one - simple protectionism. (Because of below reasons) One, even though U.S. has significant concerns about Chinese economic practices, such as China’s aggressive approach to acquiring intellectual property from American businesses, it has not imposed tariffs on China alone. EU and Canada has also attracted high tariffs. Two, Trump places a high priority on bilateral trade deficits. For instance, Chinese products attracted higher tariffs. However, countries with which the U.S. runs a trade surplus have also not been immune from trade attacks; Canada is a prime example. This then leaves the simpler explanation that Mr. Trump is fond of tariffs and believes that American industry will do better behind a wall of protection. Failure of Global trading systems Global trading system such as General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade and World Trade Organization were never designed to block a major world power from running amok. They relied on the principal players in global trade respecting the system. The WTO Dispute Settlement Mechanism has failed to act quickly to address the mounting spats about trade protectionism emanating from the U.S. – a major reason why countries around the world have not waited for verdicts from their WTO complaints and have instead proceeded with retaliation. Connecting the dots: Tit-for-tat tariffs/trade war between US and other countries has intensified recently. Discuss the implications of such trade war on developing countries like India. We are witnessing a trend of increasing protectionism and isolationism by the developed countries of the world. What reasons can be attributed to this trend? How will it affect India’s interests? Examine. NATIONAL/SOCIAL TOPIC: General Studies 2: 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 Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources. Education and caste-based prejudice Introduction: Even as a brave new India forges ahead with smartphones and cities, caste remains a major force shaping social relations and politics. Over the last few years, crimes against Dalits have been on the rise.  Even in 2018, Indian society doesn’t seem to have moved on from caste-based oppression and violence. National Crime Records Bureau data also shows  the number of crimes reported against Dalits had risen. Recent incidents of violence against Dalits Bhima Koregaon clashes between Dalits and upper castes Recently, three adolescent Dalit boys were brutally assaulted and paraded naked after they were caught having swum in a well forbidden for use by Dalits. Concerns: Perpetrators of violence against members of oppressed groups document their act themselves, apparently to establish their brazenness. They intended to warn others against transgressing traditionally-maintained boundaries of upper caste authority. They don’t believe that history has moved on, towards new social norms. There is something in the current political ethos that persuades them to hope for a return to old times. The episode reminds us of the role that wells used to play in India’s social life before the advent of piped water. Wells were often demarcated as caste territories. To have a well of your own, in your courtyard, was a symbol of status. Failure of education curriculum in reducing caste-based prejudice Education in most states does precious little to deal with caste issues in any depth or detail. Indeed, caste remains a curricular taboo. It is not supposed to be discussed directly. Nor is it acknowledged as a major social institution, shaping relationships as important as marriage. Schools, colleges and other educational institutions desist from engaging with caste in the false hope that education will remove the social inequality. From friendships to politics, the influence of caste can be observed everywhere. Many young people feel undisturbed by it. The rhetoric of being fair, open and unprejudiced is well-established in colleges, but no real learning about caste-based practices takes place. The belief persists that including the caste system in the curriculum will only reinforce it. Many schools and colleges are established by caste associations, and they too prefer to let the magic of caste remain subtle, percolating into the young mind quietly. B R Ambedkar was right in seeing caste as a barrier to India’s intellectual growth, apart from being the lever of oppression. Connecting the dots: “Has education helped to speed up economic and social mobility among the lower-placed castes?” Critically examine. “Has education helped to reduce caste-based prejudice?” Critically analyze. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Q.1) With respect to Article 239AA of Constitution Delhi assembly can legislate on all those matters listed in the State List and Concurrent List as are applicable to union territories, excluding which of the following? Public Order Police Land Select the correct statements 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.2) In what regard the Centre have special relationship with respect to NCT of Delhi as compared to other states? Centre appoints Lieutenant Governor of NCT of Delhi unilaterally while Governor of a State is appointed only after consultation with the Chief Minister of the respective State. Chief Minister of NCT of Delhi is appointed by the Lieutenant Governor of NCT of Delhi while the Chief Minister of a State is appointed by the Governor of that State. Which of the above statement(s) is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) Which among the following cereals are covered under MSP? paddy barley jowar bajra maize ragi wheat Choose the correct answer: 1, 3, 4 and 6 2, 3, 4 and 6 1, 3, 4, 6 and 7 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 Q.4) Government of India has declared the year 2018 as the National year of Millets. Which of the following statements regarding Millets are correct? Millets include coarse grains like Jowar, Bajra, Ragi, etc. The cultivation of millet requires less water as compared to wheat and rice. Millets are distributed under Public Distribution System (PDS) to improve nutritional security. Select the code from following: 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.5) With regard to Gram Swaraj Abhiyan, Consider the following statements: It is about to promote social harmony, spread awareness about pro-poor initiatives of government. Gram Shakti Abhiyan is part of this Gram Swaraj Abhiyan. Which of the above statements is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 None MUST READ A political ploy: on the hike in MSPs The Hindu The Indian wunderkind: on Praggnanandhaa's success and the Indian chess wave The Hindu The Pakistan Paradox Indian Express Betting on the future Indian Express Class Act Indian Express Fuel for development Indian Express

Motivational Articles

Creative Guidance – Dealing with mood swings – Inspirational Educative Articles

Dealing with mood swings: There are only two states of mind. One is a positive state of mind and the other is a negative state of mind. This might sound a little too simplistic, but the fact remains that we as human beings simply operate out of these two states of the mind. When we operate out of a positive state of mind, we generate positive thoughts which lead to positive actions and outcomes, and when we operate out of a negative state of mind, we generate negative thoughts which almost always lead to negative outcomes. Why does the mind swing between positive and negative moods? What controls our moods? This is extremely important to understand. Understanding this simple secret opens a door to limitless possibilities. Without understanding the source of our mood swings, we will never be able to accomplish anything significant. Our mind works on the principle of associations. Each thought is associated with another thought glued together by a common emotion. A positive emotion generates only positive associations and saves it separately from the negative emotions. This is why it is impossible to be in a negative state of mind and think positively. We are not driven by our thoughts; rather we are driven by our emotions. Understanding the nature of our mood swings is almost 90% of the battle of life won. It is almost as if we are two completely different people when we are in a positive state of mind and a negative state of mind. This is why very often we find it hard to believe how we could have reacted or acted in a particular way. The only thing we need to handle in our lives is our mood swings. Just think about it. There is a state of mind in which you think anything is possible. You can generate the best of thoughts and intentions and the best of qualities. Similarly there is a state in which you feel like you are probably the most useless and miserable person in the whole universe, nothing is as pathetic as you are. There is a not a single person on this planet who has not experienced these two diametrically opposing states of mind. Identifying the state of your mind is probably the most important skill you can develop. When you learn to identify your state of mind, you will know what to do when you enter a particular state. When you are able to identify a positive state of mind, you can use that state of mind to think, act and make important decisions. When you are in a negative state of mind, you should immediately recognize it become quiet. You should never make important life decisions when you are in a negative state of mind. Understanding the nature of our mind and its mood swings helps us to be in control of our emotions and our thoughts. Without learning this ability, we will simply become a victim of our minds. Only a control over our mood swings gives us control over life and its unending challenges. “The articles are a copyright of The Ahamo Movement and IASBABA.”

RSTV Video

RSTV- The Lacunae of Plastic Ban

The Lacunae of Plastic Ban Archives TOPIC:General Studies 3 Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment In News: From June 23, India’s second-populous state Maharashtra has started penalising all those found using plastic products, including single-use disposable items. The Devendra Fadnavis-led state government enforced the ban after issuing the Maharashtra Plastic and Thermocol Products notification in March this year. The government had given the manufacturers, distributors, and consumers a period of three months to dispose their existing stock and come up with alternatives to plastic usage. Woes of the Plastic Industry While environmentalists welcomed the cabinet’s decision, the plastic industry has slammed the government calling it a “retrograde step.” The state government may have banned plastics used in polypropylene bags — needed for packaging food items, including liquids and food grains — but has strangely not banned plastics made up of laminated multi-layered packaging which is used by companies for packaging wafers and other food stuff. While the normal plastic bags are always recycled, the ones containing such multi-layered packaging are not recycled as they contain mutltiple subtracts of different materials which is not feasible for recycling. Almost all the snack making companies pack their products in such packaging. Gone against its own undertaking to the Bombay High Court: The state government seems to have gone against its own undertaking to the Bombay High Court. On February 7, when the state environment department issued a notification calling for a ban, the MPMA had filed a petition in the high court claiming that the ban will be issued only after hearing the stake holders. But the state government did not discuss with the plastic manufacturers, and unilaterally went ahead with the ban. Problem is not the production, problem is the litter. What needs to be remembered is that plastic bags were made for a purpose, and that the main complaint is against the way that they are used — not their existence. Why is there no waste management? Lack of political will – One of the biggest obstacles to the implementation of plastic bans on the ground Waste segregation at source: Inability to successfully enforce the same Not enough facilities for ragpickers The Argument – Paper over Plastic One of the most comprehensive research papers on the environmental impact of bags, published in 2007 by an Australian state government agency, found that paper bags have a higher carbon footprint than plastic. That’s primarily because more energy is required to produce and transport paper bags. People look at paper and say it’s degradable, therefore it’s much better for the environment, but it’s not in terms of climate change impact. The reasons for paper’s higher carbon footprint are complex, but can mostly be understood as stemming from the fact that paper bags are much thicker than plastic bags. The Way Forward – Good environmental management is key Many environmental activists are calling for a ban on plastics. However, the very properties that make plastic so dangerous - its durability and long lifespan - also make it a great asset. A material that will not die or be destroyed for five hundred years is valuable. We can reuse it almost endlessly. The problem is not plastic itself. The problem is using it irresponsibly. Banning is never the solution but stern actions should be. The answer to the problems associated with thin plastic bag use is not a ban, but better management. The 3Rs — reduce, reuse and recycle — of solid waste management (SWM) also apply to plastic bags. We need substitutes for plastic, incentives to re-use, and better waste disposal. A blueprint to transform "filth into wealth" is the need of the hour. A comprehensive legal and policy framework to streamline and commercialize the process of plastic recycling must be created. What compounds the problem is the non-recognition of the recycling sector; a refusal to understand how recycling and waste management production processes function. It is the plastic industry’s responsibility to raise the necessary social awareness about responsible use and recycling. If we can show people that plastic is precious, you will not find a piece of plastic waste anywhere. Need for many waste to energy plants with present technology to convert into polymer injection technology. There is a need to make a major change on the behaviour front and the government needs to make cheaper alternatives available to people.   Must read: Link 1 + Link 2 Connecting the Dots “Sure-footed baby steps are way safer than hasty giant strides”. With reference to the current plastic ban in the state of Maharashtra, analyse the statement.

Important Articles

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