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Jun 25, 2018 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs [Prelims + Mains Focus] - 25th June 2018

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 25th June 2018 Archives (PRELIMS+MAINS FOCUS) India-Maldives: India cuts supply of essential commodities to Maldives Part of: GS Mains Paper II – India and its neighbours; International Relations Key points: Based on the 1981 trade agreement, India exports certain essential commodities to Maldives, whose quantities are notified every year. These items are exempt from any restrictions or prohibitions on Indian exports during the period of notification. Till last year, India had allocated largely whatever amount the Maldives government had proposed. However, in the latest notification, India has lowered the limits on the export of certain essential commodities such as potatoes, onions, and eggs. The notification with a sharply reduced amount of exports of essential commodities has been issued in a backdrop in the downturn of relations. Do you know? According to Article 9 of the bilateral trade agreement, quota allocations shall be finalised by the Indian government “with due regard to the supply availability and the overall need of the Government of the Republic of Maldives”. Fast recap: Relations between India and Maldives have soured somewhat in recent times. The following are key concerns – Turbulent Maldivian politics: Maldives under the authoritarian regime of President Abdulla Yameen. Maldives growing “closeness” with China: Both China and Pakistan stepping up their strategic inroads into the Maldives Religious radicalization: Maldives is being radicalized by the Saudi funds and influence ISIS threat: Growing Islamic radicalisation in the tiny island-nation of about four lakh people once known for its tolerant practices has many foreign governments, including India, deeply concerned. No FTA with India: Maldives and India do not have a Free Trade Agreement. However Maldives and China entered into Free Trade Agreement. Yameen government asked India to remove its Dhruv advanced light helicopters from Maldives (which India had gifted in 2013). Yameen government has alleged that tensions over the presence of the two Indian helicopters in two strategically important locations in the Laamu and Addu atolls have been growing. Work permits are not currently being issued to Indian Nationals. Article link: India cuts export quotas for Maldives - The Hindu Aerodrome in Chilika Lake Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Environment and Ecology; Conservation of Biodiversity In news: Airports Authority of India has proposed to set up a water aerodrome in Chilika Lake for starting amphibious aircraft operations in Odisha. Project will most likely face a green hurdle due to possible ecological consequences. Chilika turns into a temporary habitat for lakhs of migratory and residential birds. If an aircraft flies at low height, there is every chance of the birds getting hit. Noise pollution generated by close to 10,000 boats has already taken a toll on the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins in the lake. The amphibious aircraft operation would add to the woes. Important Value Additions About Chilika Lake A brackish water lagoon; largest coastal lagoon in India and the second largest lagoon in the world. Spread: Puri, Khurda and Ganjam districts of Odisha Where: At the mouth of R. Daya—flowing into the Bay of Bengal Birds: Hosts over 160 species of birds Home to the only known population of Irrawaddy dolphins in India (IUCN Status: Endangered) Irrawaddy dolphin @Chilika Irrawaddy dolphin (Orcaella brevirostris) is a highly endangered species. Total population of these animals in the world is estimated to be less than 7,500 with highest being little over 6,000 reported from Bangladesh. The population of Irrawaddy dolphins in Chilika is considered to be the highest single lagoon population with recorded head count of 155 this year. Chilika is the single largest habitat of this species in the world. The Irrawaddy Dolphin is listed in Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) as well as the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS). Article link: Proposed water aerodrome in Chilika Lake likely to face green hurdle Operation Sagar Rani Part of: GS prelims – Health and social issue; Science and Technology Key Pointers: Operation Sagar Rani was launched by the Food Safety department last year. It ensures the safety of fish sold in the market and ensures that it was handled hygienically at the handling and distribution centres. Recently, contaminated fish preserved using formalin (formaldehyde) were seized in Kerala. Toxic preservatives are being used by people/traders in Kerala who are importing fish from neighbouring States. Unscrupulous fish wholesalers are using formalin, a toxic and carcinogenic chemical commonly used to preserve dead bodies in mortuaries, to prevent fish from deteriorating during transportation. Pic: http://media2.intoday.in/indiatoday/images/stories/2011September/fish-300_092611100319.jpg Article link: Contaminated fish seized at Walayar - TAMIL NADU Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) Part of: Prelims and Mains GS Paper II and III – International relations; India and the World; Defence and Security Key points: We had read earlier that – Navies of India and Indonesia to hold their first bilateral exercise in the Java Sea India will stage a new trilateral exercise with Thailand and Singapore soon. Navy recently conducted maiden bilateral exercises with Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) Naval exercise between India and Indonesia India has deployed INS Kulish, a Kora class missile corvette, and one Dornier maritime patrol aircraft in recent CORPAT exercise. In news: India and Bangladesh have also agreed to institute a Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) as an annual feature between the two navies. The Navy regularly conducts CORPATs with Indonesia, Myanmar and Thailand. It also conducts EEZ surveillance of Maldives, Mauritius and Seychelles on their request. Person in news: Pragg Part of: GS Prelims (Sports) In news: India’s R. Praggnanandhaa became the world’s second youngest chess Grandmaster. (12 years, 10 months and 13 days) Ukraine’s Sergey Karjakin remains the youngest-ever GM (12 years and seven months). Pic: http://www.orissapost.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/R-Praggnanandhaa.jpg (MAINS FOCUS) SOCIAL ISSUE/ECONOMY TOPIC: General Studies 2: Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources. 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. Inclusive growth. SECC: Need for effective tool for counting About: Inclusion of Caste information in our Census As the 2011 Census approached, demands for inclusion of data on caste in Census increased. The then Union Home Minister, P. Chidambaram, opposed to collect caste data and blocked it by claiming that it was logistically impossible for the Census. But, suggested caste information could be collected via the planned Below Poverty Line (BPL) Census, later renamed the Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC). However, hasty inclusion of the caste question in the SECC has resulted in largely unusable data. The government tasked former NITI Aayog chairman Arvind Panagariya to look into this, but the effort has stalled. Can 2021 Census provide effective data on caste? There will be demand again for the inclusion of data on caste in 2021 Census. It also seems likely that once again India will be unprepared for a full caste census. If India really want to collect data on caste and not let the discourse about Indian society be shaped by the political exigencies of colonial India, the time to plan is now. Consequently, if we want information regarding the size and characteristics of various castes in India, we must continue to look to the Census of 1931. Big question: Should India collect data on caste? Arguments opposing Caste Census Some argue that simple act of asking about caste creates a chasm or rift within society. Part of this resistance comes from reaction to the preoccupation of colonial administrators-turned-arm-chair anthropologists who saw caste as the defining feature of Indian society. We know that, the first Census began in 1871 under Colonial Rule. Colonial censuses included questions about caste and used these data to divide and conquer India by first privileging Brahmins as interpreters of Indian culture and then targeting them as the roots of caste-based oppression and inequality. Do you know? G.S. Ghurye, the early 20th century Indian sociologist, reacted sharply by identifying this passion for caste classification as the source of anti-Brahmin movements. Veena Das, Indian anthropologist, also notes that the colonial Censuses via the process of recording caste generated a conception of community as a homogeneous and classifiable community and thereby influenced the processes of political representation. Consequently, post-Independence Censuses have shied away from including questions about caste. Critics argue that - On one hand we say that India is growing and becoming a developed nation while on the other we are agreeing to the caste based census. Are we really trying to show to the world that we are still tied in the ropes of a caste based society? In a secular and independent country like India, is there still any scope for the old caste based census that used to be followed during the British rule? The policy of the government to give quotas and reservation on the basis of caste rather than on the basis of economic status is discriminatory towards people of other caste and is often condemned by the common people. Arguments in favour for Caste Census - If caste information is not collected, we will have denied ourselves an opportunity to make quotas function in an equitable manner, says Prof. Indira Rajaraman (who was member of the Thirteenth Finance Commission) Our political systems, civil society and courts continue to assume that broad caste-based social categories — Dalits, Adivasis, Other Backward Classes (OBCs) and upper castes — defined largely using data from 1931 Census and a few special purpose surveys continue to shape economic conditions in 21st century India. Without accurate data at a granular level for each of these categories consisting of thousands of jatis (castes) and upjatis (subcastes), we have no way of knowing whether this is correct. Indian society has undergone a tremendous transformation since 1931. Land ownership that bolstered the power of upper castes has lost its hold. Land fragmentation and decades of agricultural stagnation have turned many upper caste landowners into marginal farmers barely eking out a subsistence. While landlessness, once the bane of Dalit existence, has left the landless better poised to take advantage of rising rural wages, particularly construction wages. Consequently, the National Sample Survey (NSS) shows that mean consumption expenditure of forward castes is higher than that of Dalits, clusters of poverty persist among forward castes. According to NSS data, the bottom fourth of forward castes are poorer than the top half of Dalits. India Human Development Survey shows that 56% of Dalit children ages 8-11 cannot read but neither can 32% of forward caste and 47% of OBC children. Economic growth of the past century, combined with strong affirmation action undertaken by successive governments of the independent nation, may have changed relative fortunes of various groups. Some jatis may have managed to pull themselves out poverty and marginalisation, while others may have sunk into it. Hence, it is time to collect data that reflects the current situation. Drawbacks of SECC Even though SECC was conducted in both urban and rural areas, government has released only SECC data of rural India. SECC collates data regarding the caste of the people. This caste related information faces the danger of being misused by political parties for their ulterior motives. SECC data must be regularly updated in order to remove beneficiaries who have overcome their deprivations. This will put a huge burden on the part of the government. Sometimes the same caste is spelt in different ways, at other times some individuals report their jati and others upjati making it difficult to create mutually exclusive categories. Way ahead: India has nearly three years before the Census of 2021 and also has data from the SECC and technologies rooted in machine learning at its disposal. It would be possible to set up an expert group that uses the SECC data in conjunction with other data sources such as matrimonial advertisements and State-specific Scheduled Castes/OBC lists to make a comprehensive list of castes and condense them into meaningful categories via machine learning tools. These categories could then be validated by domain experts from the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR) institutions in various States to come up with a district specific list of castes that would cover more than 90% of individuals in any given district. Interviewers could use this precoded list to allow respondents to self-classify with a small residual group’s responses being recorded verbatim and categorised later. It will take courage for a future government to collect data on caste and to use it to rationalise reservation policies. However, without better and more current data, our discourse on caste and affirmative action remains dominated by decisions made by the colonial administration. Connecting the dots: Census in India doesn’t reveal the quality of its people – it only reveals the quantity. Critically comment. On one hand we say that India is growing and becoming a developed nation while on the other we are agreeing to the caste based census. Critically examine the need for caste based census for India. If caste information is not collected, we will have denied ourselves an opportunity to make quotas function in an equitable manner. Do you agree? Elucidate. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Q.1) Identify the wetland based on the following statements: The Irrawaddy dolphin (Orcaella brevirostris) is the flagship species here. It was the first Indian wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention. Nalbana Island is the core area of this wetland. Select the wetland that is best suited to the above description— East Calcutta Wetlands Deepor Beel Chilika Lake Bhoj Wetland Q.2) Irrawaddy dolphin is generally found near the coasts of Maharashtra Odisha Kerala Gujarat Q.3) The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) recently released an updated red list classifying the different species. It has changed the status of Irrawaddy Dolphins from Endangered to Vulnerable Vulnerable to Endangered Vulnerable to Critically Endangered Vulnerable to Extinct Q.4) Where are the Krushnaprasad, Nalaban, Kalijai, Mangalajodi, Somolo and Birds’ Islands located? Godavari river Chilika lake Brahmaputra river Lakshadweep Q.5) The 8 degree channel separate which one the following? Lakshdweep and Minicoy Islands Maldives and Minicoy Islands Andaman and Nicobar Islands Indira point and Indonesia Q.6) Consider the following statements with reference to Maldives The country has a tropical monsoon climate. It is entirely made up of atolls and associated coral structures. Equator passes through the country. Which of the statements given above are correct? 1 and 2 1 and 3 2 and 3 1, 2 and 3 MUST READ For nutrition security: On undernourishment The Hindu Change perceptions in J&K; The Hindu Smoke and mirrors The Hindu Lessons from dark times Indian Express No zero sum game Indian Express

Jun 25, 2018 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 8]

UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 8] Archives Q.1) Consider the following statements about ‘AmbubachiMela’ It is associated with attainment of womanhood of girls It is celebrated in Kamakhya temple in Assam Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) Consider the following statements Deobandi movement developed as a reaction to the British colonialism which was seen by a group of Muslim Indian scholars ‘JamiatUlema-e-Hind’ has propounded a theological basis for its nationalistic philosophy ‘JamiatUlema-e-Hind’ was formed in 1886 by Sir Syed Ahmad Khan Select the correct statements 1 Only 1 and 2 1 and 3 All of the above Q.3) Consider the following statements bout ‘DART Mission’ It is a planetary defence-driven test of one of the technologies for preventing the Earth impact of a hazardous asteroid It will target the smaller “moonlet” of a binary asteroid called Didymos It is conceptualised by European Space Agency (ESA) Select the correct statements 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.4) Germany is NOT bordered by Denmark Switzerland Croatia Czech Republic Select the appropriate code: 1 and 4 3 Only 2 and 3 1 and 2 Q.5) Which of the following statements is/are correct? UNISPACE+50 marks the fiftieth anniversary of the first United Nations Conference on the Exploration and Peaceful Uses of Outer Space UN-SPIDER is a programme of the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) Both (a) and (b) Neither (a) nor (b) To Download the Solution – Click here All the Best IASbaba

Jun 24, 2018 Motivational Articles

Creative Guidance – The Journey – Inspirational & Educative Articles

The Journey: So much emphasis has been given to reaching a certain destination that we forget the most important thing about going anywhere. The most important part of pursuing a goal is not the experience of getting somewhere; it is rather the experience of the journey itself. It is the journey that makes pursuing any grand dream an exciting process. The moment we forget that life is an experiential journey, and only in the journey is there any meaning and purpose to life, we forget life itself. There is no point reaching a goal by missing the journey. We like to pursue big dreams and goals because it makes life an exciting journey. The destination is only a reference point. The destination only helps us to stay focused and keep moving. It is only the journey that becomes a part of our life and adds any meaning at all to it. A lot is connected to enjoying the journey of Life. It does not matter what you are pursuing. It does not even matter if you will get there or not. The most important thing to always remember is that the journey you are undertaking to reach a certain goal is unique in every way. Enjoying this unique, once in a life time journey makes life a worthwhile experience. Think about this for a moment. When you reach a certain destination, no matter what it is, how long do you think the happiness of reaching there will last? Not very long at all; within a few days you will forget all about it and move on to the next goal. As far as the mind is concerned, there is no destination. Mind only knows the journey and nothing else. In a mad rush to reach somewhere, we forget to pay attention to what is happening around us. We become blind to people, processes and experiences of life. We become inert to emotions and simple joys of life. Life is a movement towards a certain destination but let us never forget to enjoy the journey. The greatest regret of life is to reach somewhere by missing everything on the path. When you lookback at your life, you should be able to say you lived. You should be able to say that you experienced each and every moment of this precious and wonderful life. If you had moved around blindly to reach one goal after another, you will fail even if you succeed. The world might look at you and say that you are a success, but you will remember your life as a big failure. There are two realities out there; one is your reality and the other is the reality of everybody around you. Most of what you do in life is to satisfy the expectations of people around you. Never forget that the most important person who has to accept your life and call it a success is you. If you succeed according to the world and fail in your own eyes, then you would have indeed failed. Pay attention to the journey. The most beautiful aspect about life is the journey itself. Let us not miss it for anything else. “The articles are a copyright of The Ahamo Movement and IASBABA.”

Jun 23, 2018 RSTV Video

RSTV- India's Worst Water Crisis

India's Worst Water Crisis Archives 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: Conservation, Environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment. Water Pollution, Wastewater management In News: India is suffering from ‘the worst water crisis’ in its history with about 60 crore people facing high to extreme water stress and about two lakh people dying every year due to inadequate access to safe water, NITI Aayog said in a report on Thursday. The report, titled ‘Composite Water Management Index’ further said the crisis is only going to get worse. 600 million people in India face high to extreme water stress in the country. About three-fourth of the households in the country do not have drinking water at their premise. With nearly 70% of water being contaminated, India is placed at 120th amongst 122 countries in the water quality index. 75% of households do not have drinking water on premise. 84% rural households do not have piped water access. ‘Composite Water Management Index’: This index is an attempt to budge States and UTs towards efficient and optimal utilization of water and recycling thereof with a sense of urgency. The Index and this associated report are expected to: Establish a clear baseline and benchmark for state-level performance on key water indicators Uncover and explain how states have progressed on water issues over time, including identifying high-performers and under-performers, thereby inculcating a culture of constructive competition among states Identify areas for deeper engagement and investment on the part of the states. Major Issue: Data and centre-state and inter-state cooperation are some of the key levers that can help address the crisis. Data systems related to water in the country are limited in their coverage, robustness, and efficiency. Limited coverage: Detailed data is not available for several critical sectors such as for domestic and industrial use, for which data is only available at the aggregate level and lacks the level of detail required to inform policies and allocations. Unreliable data: The data that is available can often be of inferior quality, inconsistent, and unreliable due to the use of outdated methodologies in data collection. For example, estimates on groundwater are mostly based on observation data from 55,000 wells, while there are 12 million wells in the country. Limited coordination and sharing: Data in the water sectors exists in silos, with very little inter-state or centre-state sharing, thereby reducing efficiencies. The Composite Water Management Index (CWMI) is a major step towards creating a culture of databased decision-making for water in India, which can encourage ‘competitive and cooperative federalism’ in the country’s water governance and management. Water policy timeline in India (not exhaustive) How will climate change hit supply? While growth in urban population is leading to increased water demand, climate change will make supply more variable. In some places, it will lead to a reduction of availability. In future, one in six large cities is likely to be at the risk of water deficit. Increased demand for urban water supply will put pressure on groundwater resources. We investigated urban groundwater stress by calculating the urban groundwater footprint of regional aquifers. Climate change and socio-economic factors like urbanisation will lead to an increasing urban groundwater footprint. Historically, many cities in less developed countries had systems that were inadequate to provide 24X7 water access to its people, a goal that will become even harder to reach in the future. Can we avoid more Cape Towns – Need to make “every drop count” Expanding water supply Increasing storage This will ensure that cities survive under drought. This can be done by Long-distance water transfers, but can also come from groundwater or desalination. When cities appropriate more water, they impact the freshwater ecosystem. Sometimes urban water usage is more than in agriculture. Society should make more efficient use of water. Putting in place an efficient piped supply system has to be top on the agenda of policymakers and planners. Steps must be taken to make farmers efficient in use of irrigation water. Water reuse is an option too. Both in urban and rural areas, digging of rainwater harvesting pits must be made mandatory for all types of buildings. Nature-based solutions can address overall water scarcity through “supply-side management,” and are recognised as the main solution to achieving sustainable water for agriculture. Environmentally-friendly agricultural systems like those which use practices such as conservation tillage, crop diversification, legume intensification and biological pest control work as well as intensive, high-input systems. The environmental co-benefits of nature-based solutions to increasing sustainable agricultural production are substantial as there are decreased pressures on land conversion and reduced pollution, erosion and water requirements. Constructed wetlands for wastewater treatment can also be a cost-effective, nature-based solution that provides effluent of adequate quality for several non-potable uses (irrigation) and additional benefits that include energy production. Watershed management is another nature-based solution that is seen not only as a complement to build or “grey” infrastructure but also one that could also spur local economic development, job creation, biodiversity protection and climate resilience. Two areas that need urgent measures are Augmentation of watersheds that can store more good water, for use in agriculture and to serve habitations Strict pollution control enforcement: User-centric approach to water management, especially in agriculture Decentralisation of irrigation commands, offering higher financial flows to well-performing States through a National Irrigation Management Fund Steady urbanisation calls for a new management paradigm - augmenting sources of clean drinking water supply and treatment technologies that will encourage reuse. The Way Forward: Conscious efforts need to be made at the household level and by communities, institutions and local bodies to supplement the efforts of governments and non-governmental bodies in promoting water conservation. Sustained measures should be taken to prevent pollution of water bodies, contamination of groundwater and ensure proper treatment of domestic and industrial waste water. Reduce, reuse, and recycle must be the watchwords if we have to handover a liveable planet to the future generations. Note: Water is a State subject Must Read: Link 1 Connecting the Dots: To solve the growing water crisis, the solution that is proposed and pushed by world bodies such as WTO and IMF through international agreements is privatisation of water. Do you think India should also privatise its water? Critically analyse. Many parts of the country are facing severe water crisis and drought conditions. There are many traditional water harvesting and conservation practices in various parts of India which can be employed locally to fight the ongoing crisis. Can you identify few such practices? Also mention the states where they are more prevalant.

Jun 23, 2018

IASbaba’s All India Prelims Test Series 2019: UPSC General Studies and CSAT in English & Hindi- Admissions Open Now!

PAYMENT LINK TO JOIN AIPTS 2019 Hello Friends, We are proud to announce the commencement of the ALL INDIA PRELIMS TEST SERIES (AIPTS)-2019. Our decision to come out with AIPTS stems from the fact that not everyone requires the same pedagogy. Many of our followers are already through with the syllabus and simply want to check their preparedness on a regular basis. So, there it is - AIPTS, an initiative, tailor-made for those who want to streamline their preparation and monitor their progress at regular intervals. Just like ILP, AIPTS is driven by quality. AIPTS gives you the chance to cover the syllabus of UPSC in a planned and systematic way and at the same time a platform to compete with thousands of sincere candidates. The best thing about AIPTS this year is that we have synced the AIPTS with the schedule of ILP (Hence ILP-2019 users should not join AIPTS-2019). This way you get to compete with our ILP followers as well. You will get to know other details of AIPTS in the document given below. Once you join the AIPTS, make this document your friend, philosopher and guide throughout your journey. We wish you luck and success. FINE PRINTS OF ALL INDIA PRELIMS TEST SERIES All India Prelims Test Series-2019 is available in ENGLISH and HINDI. Total Number of Tests- 40 General Studies (Paper 1) + 12 CSAT (Paper 2) Tests = Total 52 There will be a detailed solution for each test. PDFs of questions and solutions will be sent to registered email ID. It can also be downloaded after taking the tests online. To be part of All India Ranking, one has to appear for the exam as per mentioned Rank Publish Date (preferably before the next test date). For each test, there will be THREE attempts. Ranks will be calculated based on the very first attempt. There is no fixed time to take the test. It's flexible. Tests will be uploaded on the respective dates as mentioned in the plan. The validity of the tests is from July 2018 to June 2019. You have to take tests/download PDFs between the given period only. In no case, there will be any assistance from our side after the expiry of the programme. You can join AIPTS 2019 anytime. There is no deadline. ILP 2019 users need not join AIPTS 2019. IMPORTANT NOTE Test Platform will be activated 1 days before the first test. Activation of Test Platform- 21st July 2018 First Test Date- 22nd July 2018 DOWNLOAD THE FULL SCHEDULE - CLICK HERE FEE/SUBSCRIPTION- 5999+ 18% GST Online Payment – To make the Online Payment – Click Here NOTE: After the successful payment, please check your email (SPAM and JUNK FOLDERS TOO). You will receive an acknowledgement for the fee paid. Also, you can Download the PDF after successful payment, it contains your ID and Password. Do not try to log in before 20th July. We will notify once the platform is activated. Offline Payment Details: Please mail us the acknowledgement at ilp@iasbaba.com if making offline payment. Bank details BANK Name CANARA BANK BANK BRANCH BANGALORE KLE SOCIETY ACCOUNT NAME IASBABA ACCOUNT NUMBER 8418201003785 IFSC CODE CNRB0008418 ACCOUNT TYPE CURRENT ACCOUNT Thank You IASbaba

Jun 23, 2018 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs [Prelims + Mains Focus] - 23rd June 2018

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 23rd June 2018 Archives (PRELIMS+MAINS FOCUS) Plastic Waste Management (PWM) Rules Part of: GS Prelims and Mains – Environment and ecology; Pollution In news: India generates an estimated 32 million metric tonnes of packaging waste each year, of which plastic waste constitutes 16%. But only 60% of the collected plastic waste is recycled. According to the Plastic Waste Management (PWM) Rules, 2016, all States have to annually apprise the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) on the steps taken to reign in plastic use, whether a ban is in force, and the strength and performance of a recycler and waste-processing network. We know that, The theme for the World Environment Day 2018, “Beat Plastic Pollution”. The theme of Earth Day 2018 is “End Plastic Pollution”. Important Value Additions: The Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016 aim to: Increase minimum thickness of plastic carry bags from 40 to 50 microns. Expand the jurisdiction of applicability from the municipal area to rural areas, because plastic has reached rural areas also. Responsibility of local bodies and Gram Panchayat. Collect back system of plastic waste. To bring in the responsibilities of producers and generators, both in plastic waste management system and to introduce collect back system of plastic waste. Phasing out of manufacture and use of non- recyclable multilayered plastic: to be phased out in two years’ time. To promote use of plastic waste for road construction as per Indian Road Congress guidelines or energy recovery, or waste to oil etc. for gainful utilization of waste and also address the waste disposal issue; Performance (according to latest CPCB report) States’ claim on fighting plastic only strong on paper. Only 24 States and Union Territories have complied with some of the above directions. Most states’ have imposed ban only in specific towns or cities. Delhi, which reportedly generates the largest quantity of plastic waste in the country, has not provided information on its plastic management initiatives to the CPCB. The law requires that all plastic waste recyclers register themselves but there were around 312 unregistered plastic manufacturing/recycling units across India. Most of the States/UTs have not set up proper monitoring system for use of carry bags as per the specified guidelines. Maharashtra tops the list on plastic waste generation Pic link: https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2018/06/23/DEL/Delhi/TH/5_05/41ffb33f_2193050_101_mr.jpg Article link: States' claim on fighting plastic only strong on paper - The Hindu India- Seychelles: Assumption island naval base project stalled Part of: GS Mains II – International Relations; India and the World In news: Seychelles National Assembly will not ratify India’s plans to build a naval base in the western Indian Ocean region. India had proposed to build a naval base on the strategically located Assumption island. Assumption Island is a small island in the Outer Islands of Seychelles north of Madagascar. Seychelles believe allowing Indian Naval base would infringe on the country’s sovereignty. Coast guard facility : Seychelles has indicated that instead of allowing India to run the base, it would like to develop a coast guard facility at the Assumption. The Indian project was to include a facility for Indian ships and an airstrip that would allow New Delhi to guard the energy lanes vital to India’s economy. Ambubachi Mela: Festival to mark the menstrual period of the goddess Part of: GS Prelims and Mains I – Culture and Indian society In news: Ambubachi Mela, a four-day fair to mark the annual menstruation of the goddess at Kamakhya temple, Assam. Kamakhya, atop Nilachal Hills in Guwahati, is one of 51 shaktipeeths or seat of Shakti followers, each representing a body part of Sati, Lord Shiva’s companion. The temple’s sanctum sanctorum houses the yoni — female genital — symbolised by a rock. Temple priests said the ritualistic fair celebrating the goddess’ period is one of the reasons why the taboo associated with menstruation is less in Assam compared to other parts of India. The attainment of womanhood of girls in Assam is celebrated with a ritual called ‘Tuloni Biya’, meaning small wedding. Indo-UN Small Satellites Programme (UNSSP): Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Science and Tech; Space programmes Key pointers: India to teach satellite tech to students from abroad India has thrown open its satellite-building expertise to engineering graduates chosen from other countries. ISRO’s Bengaluru-based U.R. Rao Satellite Centre (URSC) — until recently known as ISAC — will train the overseas students. Capacity-building programme was India’s contribution to the world in response to a request that the UN Office for Outer Space Affairs had made to space-faring nations last year. The countries are marking the 50th year of the first UN Conference on the Exploration and Peaceful Uses of Outer Space — called UNISPACE+50. (MAINS FOCUS) INTERNAL SECURITY TOPIC:General Studies 3: Role of external state and non-state actors in creating challenges to internal security. Challenges to internal security through communication networks Security challenges and their management in border areas; linkages of organized crime with terrorism. Tackling Vigilantism and Protecting Minorities Background: In our previous article [Shifting taxonomy of violence], we read that – India is witnessing saga of violence and conflicts. The article mainly focused on incidents which caused law and order problems due to industry versus environment concerns – Sterlite’s copper smelters in Thoothukudi tanneries spewing effluents in Kanpur iron mines in Goa Bhopal Gas Tragedy of 1984, the mother of all environmental tragedies. Also adding to above list, were the escalating violence resulting from caste conflicts, such as – most recent Dalit uprising farmers’ woes across the country rape of young women and children issues revolving around tradition versus modernity outsider versus insider syndrome, especially in the Northeast All the above issues had resulted in highly complex violence (police firings, death of over a dozen individuals, etc) and needed careful attention. The article stressed the need for redefining the internal security landscape and for new methods to deal with the above new-era protests. (You can revise previous article by clicking this link - Shifting taxonomy of violence) Apart from above incidents there are other episodes of mass communal violence – recurring incidents of lynching and targeted mob violence against vulnerable groups – have been reported from various parts of the country. These recurring incidents are a direct challenge thrown by right-wing groups to political processes, especially electoral processes and the rule of law. (what we can all as ‘vigilante violence’) **Vigilantism - law enforcement undertaken without legal authority by a self-appointed group of people. Vigilantism, at its peak? South Asia has a long history of communal violence, but these were primarily big episodes of mass violence. This has now given way to a smaller-scale of conflict and vigilante violence against individuals endorsed by state inaction. According to India Spend, a data-journalism website - 86% of those killed in lynching incidents in 2017 were Muslims Supreme Court in 2017 directed all State governments to take measures to prevent vigilantism in the name of cow protection. However, public lynching or vigilante violence hasn’t subsided. Majority of attacks are due to bovine related, anti-minority attacks and hate violence around festivals. Are minorities under siege? The victims in cases of lynching are almost entirely from poor families and minorities. Minorities are continually kept under siege through targeted attacks. India has a poor record when it comes to prevention and punishment of the perpetrators of mass violence and/or lynchings. Each event of violence has hardened community boundaries and widened the divide between Hindus and Muslims. According to the Citizens Against Hate (CAH), a civil society group report - 97% of cow-related lynchings had occurred since the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) rise to political dominance in 2014. Most of these attacks were based on rumours sparked by accusations, often circulating on social media which take the shape of communal stereotypes of victims. Most actors leading the charge are suspected to belong to right-wing parties who are backed by political protection. Apart from the political reasons alluded to above, the rising trend is directly related to the ‘intensification of communal polarisation’ and ‘instrumentalisation of prejudice’ for political ends apparent in various government attempts to infuse religion into politics and education. In the event, these acts seem to have acquired a certain degree of legitimacy in the public mind. Conclusion As hate crimes grow, so does the sense of impunity or licence/freedom enjoyed by the actual perpetrators to continue such injurious crimes increases. Lack of justice for victims further reinforces the vicious cycle of impunity. The lack of public reaction to such incidents implies a degree of acceptability of violence as an expression of vengeance against ‘injustices’ suffered by Hindus in the past. The theory of ‘Hindu insecurity’ and ‘Hindu persecution’ comes at a time when political representation of Muslims in legislatures and administration and their presence in the public sphere is at its lowest since Independence. Most of the incidents are not spontaneous acts of violence; there is usually systematic planning behind them. Has active support of powerful political figures in the current establishment at the Centre and in the States has helped to build networks, gain new recruits, resources and legitimacy that right-wing groups did not have in the past? Preventing further atrocities requires respect for the rule of law and legal institutions and strong prosecutions and expeditious punishments. Unless checked, it can cause irreversible harm to the social fabric of our society and to the tenets of democracy that have shaped and sustained the idea of India. Connecting the dots: Growing hate crimes and vigilante violence needs reforms in our existing laws and legal procedures. Do you agree? Critically examine. INDIAN HERITAGE AND CULTURE TOPIC: General Studies 1: Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times. Salient features of Indian Society, Diversity of India. General Studies 2: Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate. UNESCO's World Heritage mission and India’s World Heritage List Introduction: Heritage is our legacy from the past, what we live with today, and what we pass on to future generations. Our cultural and natural heritage are both irreplaceable sources of life and inspiration. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) seeks to encourage the identification, protection and preservation of cultural and natural heritage around the world considered to be of outstanding value to humanity. This is embodied in an international treaty called the Convention concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage , adopted by UNESCO in 1972. UNESCO's World Heritage mission is to Encourage countries to sign the World Heritage Convention and to ensure the protection of their natural and cultural heritage; Encourage States Parties to the Convention to nominate sites within their national territory for inclusion on the World Heritage List; Encourage States Parties to establish management plans and set up reporting systems on the state of conservation of their World Heritage sites; Help States Parties safeguard World Heritage properties by providing technical assistance and professional training; Provide emergency assistance for World Heritage sites in immediate danger; Support States Parties' public awareness-building activities for World Heritage conservation; Encourage participation of the local population in the preservation of their cultural and natural heritage; Encourage international cooperation in the conservation of our world's cultural and natural heritage. The Criteria for Selection To be included on the World Heritage List, sites must be of outstanding universal value and meet at least one out of ten selection criteria. The World Heritage Committee, the main body in charge of the implementation of the Convention, has developed precise criteria for the inscription of properties on the World Heritage List and for the provision of international assistance under the World Heritage Fund. Selection criteria (i) to represent a masterpiece of human creative genius; (ii) to exhibit an important interchange of human values, over a span of time or within a cultural area of the world, on developments in architecture or technology, monumental arts, town-planning or landscape design; (iii) to bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared; (iv) to be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history; (v) to be an outstanding example of a traditional human settlement, land-use, or sea-use which is representative of a culture (or cultures), or human interaction with the environment especially when it has become vulnerable under the impact of irreversible change; (vi) to be directly or tangibly associated with events or living traditions, with ideas, or with beliefs, with artistic and literary works of outstanding universal significance. (The Committee considers that this criterion should preferably be used in conjunction with other criteria); (vii) to contain superlative natural phenomena or areas of exceptional natural beauty and aesthetic importance; (viii) to be outstanding examples representing major stages of earth's history, including the record of life, significant on-going geological processes in the development of landforms, or significant geomorphic or physiographic features; (ix) to be outstanding examples representing significant on-going ecological and biological processes in the evolution and development of terrestrial, fresh water, coastal and marine ecosystems and communities of plants and animals; (x) to contain the most important and significant natural habitats for in-situ conservation of biological diversity, including those containing threatened species of outstanding universal value from the point of view of science or conservation. World Heritage Convention of 1972 The World Heritage Convention of 1972, adhered to by 192 countries, aims to protect cultural and natural heritage across the world. There are presently 1,052 World Heritage sites in 165 countries, of which 814 are cultural sites, 203 natural and 35 mixed; 55 more properties are on the "in danger" list. The WHC, however, has received flak for its bias toward Europe and North America, with these two regions being home to nearly half of all World Heritage sites. India’s World Heritage Sites India, which ratified the Convention in 1977, has 27 cultural World Heritage sites, seven natural sites and one mixed site. Among the cultural properties are the Taj Mahal, the monuments of Hampi, the churches and convents of Goa, Jaipur’s Jantar Mantar and the Mountain Railways of India, which include the Darjeeling, Nilgiri, and Kalka-Shimla railway networks. Natural sites include the Sundarbans in West Bengal, the Kaziranga and Manas National Parks in Assam, and the Western Ghats. Sikkim’s Khangchendzonga National Park, which was included this year, is the sole mixed site. While there are four times as many cultural sites in India as natural, the latter are much larger in area. India has the sixth largest number of World Heritage sites. Italy is on top with 51 sites. Connecting the dots: Does UNESCO inscription play a significant role in tourism destinations performance? Also discuss the UNESCO's role in relation to protecting the world heritage site. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Q.1) Assumption island is located in - Madagascar Seychelles Maldives Mauritius Q.2) Ambubachi Mela, a festival to mark the menstrual period of the goddess is celebrated in – Tamil Nadu Assam Arunachal Pradesh West bengal Q.3) Ellora caves are one of the World Heritage sites in India. Which of the following statements are correct about ‘Ellora caves’? Ellora caves are rock cut caves made from top to bottom. The most famous temple of Ellora – Kailashnath temple was made by Rashtrakutas. These caves are dedicated to Hinduism only. Select the code from following: 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.4) In the Constitution of India, the provision 'to value and preserve the rich heritage of the country’s composite culture' is included in the: Preamble to the Constitution Directive Principles of State Policy Fundamental Duties Fundamental Rights MUST READ At the heart of the Silk Road The Hindu Coalition Country Indian Express Redraw the Red Line Indian Express Let the elite pay Indian Express

Jun 22, 2018 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs [Prelims + Mains Focus] - 22nd June 2018

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 22nd June 2018 Archives (PRELIMS+MAINS FOCUS) Trade war: US imports to attract high tariffs Part of: GS Mains Paper II- International relations In news: India notified higher tariffs on several items imported from the U.S. Agricultural products such as apples, almonds, chickpeas, lentils, and walnuts; Industrial inputs such as some grades of iron and steel products; -- to attract high tariffs Harley-Davidson motorcycles row – US tried to squeeze India to set zero import duty on Harleys US and EU European Union also began to charge import duties of 25% on a range of U.S. products in response to U.S tariffs imposed on EU steel and aluminium. The move confirms a tit-for-tat dispute that could escalate into a full trade war, particularly if U.S. President Donald Trump carries out his threat to penalise European cars. US and China China also had announced plans to hike tariffs by 25% on 106 imports from the U.S. The Chinese move was in response to a U.S. announcement of a 25% tariff on 1,333 Chinese imports. However, both the countries negotiated with an agreement not to impose tariffs on each other, pulling back from the brink of a trade war. Will US negotiate with other countries as well and make similar agreement as China’s, to not impose tariffs on each other?? UN’s Sustainable Development Goals 2018 report Part of: GS Mains Paper III- Inclusive development In news: After a prolonged decline, world hunger appears to be on the rise again. There are now approximately 38 million more undernourished people in the world, rising from 777 million in 2015 to 815 million in 2016 “CONFLICT” – main drivers of food insecurity in 18 countries. Conflict and Climate Change (drought and disasters) are among the key factors causing this reversal in progress. Pic link: https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2018/06/22/DEL/Delhi/TH/5_07/8b3b8f35_2190471_101_mr.jpg Highest Economic losses was in 2017 - over $300 billion loss - owing to three major hurricanes affecting the United States of America and several countries across the Caribbean. Good news - South Asia, which includes India, has seen child marriage rates plunge Bad news – South Asian region facing high water stress levels and fast-approaching water scarcity; air pollution level is also high Electricity and sanitation deficits in south Asia are still poor About Sustainable Development Goals 17 SDGs were adopted by UN member nations in 2015. The deadline to meet them is 2030. How to remember all 17 Goals? I Can HELP Yes, “I Can HELP” is your answer I2 Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure Inequality Can5 Clean water and Sanitation Clean Energy Climate Change Cities and Communities Consumption and Production H2 Hunger Health E3 Education Equality Economic Growth, Decent Work L2 Life below water Life on land P3 Poverty Peace and Justice Partnerships for the Goals Credit Guarantee Trust for Agriculture (CGTA) Part of: GS Mains Paper III- Indian Agriculture In news: Odisha CM suggests policy framework for farm loan waivers Calls for a national policy on farm loan waiver Rather than cost sharing between Centre and States, the whole issue should be removed from political considerations, since agrarian distress and addressing is beyond partisanship Suggests the setting up of a Credit Guarantee Trust for Agriculture (CGTA) on the lines of the Credit Guarantee Trust for Small and Medium Enterprises (CGTSME) Through this, collateral-free agricultural loans of up to ₹50 lakh and collateral-free crop loans of up to ₹2 lakh can be offered, backed only by the guarantee of CGTA Odisha government is creating a CGTA for the State’s farmers with a corpus of nearly ₹200 crore. Important to understand CGTSME About Credit Guarantee Trust for Small and Medium Enterprises (CGTSME) To facilitate easy flow of credit to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises CGTSME was set up to strengthen credit delivery system and facilitate flow of credit to the MSE sector. The Credit Guarantee Fund Scheme for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGS) was launched by the Government of India (GoI) to make available collateral-free credit to the micro and small enterprise sector. Both the existing and the new enterprises are eligible to be covered under the scheme. The Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, GoI and Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI), established a Trust named Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) to implement the Credit Guarantee Fund Scheme for Micro and Small Enterprises. For more - https://www.cgtmse.in/About_us.aspx Trace and Track mechanism to check counterfeit drugs Part of: GS Mains Paper II- Government interventions In news: The Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) has proposed introduction of trace and track mechanism for top 300 drug brands that are sold in India. This mechanism will be implemented across India on a trial basis to spot out counterfeit drugs. Under this proposal, the company will print a unique number on each strip or bottle of the drug. It will also print a phone number where the customer can dial and enter the aforesaid unique number and get the name and address of the manufacturer, the batch number, manufacturing and expiry date of the medicine. Need: According to a study by the World Health Organization (WHO) in November last year, about 10 per cent of the medicines consumed in low- and middle-income countries, including India, are “substandard and falsified”. In February last year, a two-year-long nationwide survey was conducted under the supervision of the Central government, which found that around 10 per cent of the drugs in the government supply chain are “not of standard quality”. This survey found around 3 per cent of drugs in retail supply chain substandard. Taking ease of doing business to the districts level Part of: GS Mains Paper III- Inclusive development, Indian Economy In news: The Centre has begun to sharpen its focus on improving ease of doing business at the districts level, having achieved some improvement at both the Central and State levels. As a pilot, six districts in five States have been selected for development schemes that will increase district GDP by 3 per cent. Once the pilot is successful, it will be replicated pan India. By making districts a focal point of growth and increasing their GDP by 2-3 per cent, the country’s GDP will grow as districts’ growth is critical for the country’s overall growth. Under-reporting of female foeticides Part of: GS Mains Paper I- Social issues In news: The National Health Profile, 2018, exposes the gross inability of law enforcement agencies in India to crack down on female foeticide. Between 2008 and 2016, a total of just 1128 foeticides happened in the country, says the National Health Profile. Yet, the National Family Health Survey 4 shows that the sex ratio of children born in the last five years before the survey (2010-11 to 2015-16) is just 919 girls per 1,000 births (the ideal ratio is 950). NHP 2018 highlights the under-reporting of foeticides (sex-selective and otherwise) in the country. The abysmally low cases filed for foeticide expose the laxity of the law enforcement system. National Health Profile is the most comprehensive annual compilation of data on disease incidence, health infrastructure and health finance. MAINS FOCUS NATIONAL TOPIC: General Studies 1: Social empowerment, communalism, regionalism & secularism Salient features of Indian Society, Diversity of India General Studies 2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Parliament and State Legislatures- structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these. Political under-representation of women in India Introduction: B.R. Ambedkar once said that “political power is the key to all social progress”. India where women suffer substantially greater socio-economic disadvantages than Western democracies like Spain—has a cabinet that is only 22% female and a Lok Sabha that has a meagre 12% female representation. Concentration of political power tends to lead to extractive economic institutions. Inclusive economic institutions and growth—both necessary for and dependent on social empowerment—require inclusive political institutions. Effect of political representation on disadvantaged groups: Social outcomes: Observing a member of their own group in charge of a public office changes attitudes and infuses confidence in the minority group. This may be referred to as the reporting channel. For example, a public opinion survey done by the authors in Rajasthan revealed that women in villages with a head council position reserved are more likely to be willing to report crimes to the police. An increase in the responsiveness of the official towards the pleas of disadvantaged groups. For example, Gender of the village council president affects the extent of investment in public goods. Data collected in 2002 revealed that in Rajasthan and West Bengal, for instance, increased female political representation led to more investment in drinking water and roads in response to complaints by local women. Economic outcome: A study shows a strong connection between implementation of political reservations and small-scale entrepreneurship among women. The study noted “a growth in new women-owned establishments and associated employment of approximately 40% after political reservations were implemented” for the 1994-2005 period. Women representation in Indian parliament: The proportion of women in the Lok Sabha has seen only a paltry increase since independence—from 4.5% in the first Lok Sabha to the current 12% in the 16th Lok Sabha. Way ahead: The debate on the women’s reservation Bill is one aspect of the issue—but it’s not the only one. 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. Another hurdle is lack of education and leadership training. 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 instill in them a sense of agency. The above 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. Connecting the dots: B.R. Ambedkar once said that “political power is the key to all social progress”, In this light discuss the socio-economic impact of poor political representation of women in India. NATIONAL TOPIC:General studies 2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources Bridge Course: Addressing human resources gaps in primary healthcare In news: A National Medical Commission (NMC) proposal in the National Medical Commission Bill and the National Health Policy 2017, proposed allowing Ayush (Ayurveda, yoga and naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and homoeopathy) practitioners to practise basic and limited allopathy on completion of a bridge course. Faced with strong opposition from allopaths, the Union cabinet in its latest amendments withdrew the proposal and passed on the responsibility to states to utilize this as a strategy for addressing human resources gaps in primary healthcare. Need of such a policy: Shortage of doctors India faces an acute shortage of allopathic doctors, with the present doctor-patient ratio at an abysmal 1:1,674. The last mile of healthcare delivery in India occurs through sub-centres and primary health centres (PHCs). But 61.2% PHCs have just one doctor, while nearly 7% are functioning without any. More than a third of them do not have a laboratory technician, a fifth of them do without a pharmacist. India’s health system clearly has an acute shortage of doctors. The country needs nearly 500,000 doctors to address this shortage. In such a milieu, unqualified medical practitioners often rule the roost. In states such as Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand and Bihar, a patient faces two-third chances of getting treated by a quack. Given the paucity of MBBS doctors in rural areas, it makes sense to leverage the ready availability of a large population of willing Ayush practitioners. Way ahead: With the availability of appropriate bridge courses, sound regulatory and licensing mechanisms, Ayush graduates should be given a chance to help serve India’s primary healthcare needs. In courses like Ayurveda, nursing, physiotherapy or pharmacy, the curriculum has several strands similar to that of a MBBS course; additional training in pharmacology and basics of medicine with clinical clerkships could provide them an orientation to be able to practise “limited” allopathy. The bridge course can be delivered through premier Ayush colleges, and selected district hospitals. The training and curriculum for Ayush candidates can be ring-fenced, and regulatory restrictions brought in to ensure they only practise within the allowed ambit. Examples of such programmes in the West: A physician assistant (PA) in the US comes out of such a programme, often taken up by paramedics and nurses, who can after a two-year course and passing a certifying exam become assistants to doctors. The UK model of physician associate, in a two-year training period, focuses on general adult medicine and general practice. In New Zealand, the Centre for Rural Health Development identifies PAs as “postgraduate healthcare professionals trained in a clinical role that complements both nursing and medicine and working under the supervision of a senior doctor”, who form an important cog in the wheel of rural healthcare. As of 2013 in Bangladesh, three-year training qualifies a sub-assistant community medical officer (SACMO) to practice. Incidentally, 89% of healthcare delivery in rural areas is being taken care primarily by SACMOs. Assistant doctors in China, clinical associates in South Africa, and assistant medical officers in Malaysia are all based on similar models. Importance of bridge course: The allopathic doctors’ community, led by the Indian Medical Association (IMA), should not see the move as legitimization of “quackery”. A bridge course can help bring Ayush candidates to speed on allopathic prescribing for a required set of conditions—this is not to make them half-way quacks but to actually practise base-level primary healthcare provisioning. Moreover, there are positive externalities at multiple levels in training the Ayush provider to serve a primary healthcare domain need. Such a provider can help initiate a focus on disease prevention, a dire need considering India’s continuing burden of both communicable and (rising) non-communicable diseases. For a specific set of conditions defined by the government, the Ayush provider can initiate treatment, manage follow-up, and initiate referral when needed. This would ensure that standard treatment protocols are followed. It can help address irrational medical practice, and existing rampant abuse of drugs such as antibiotics. Conclusion: While implementation can be at the state level, the design of the course, the legal framework, and a standardized plan should be the Centre’s responsibility. The proposed redesign of India’s health system (Ayushman scheme) will falter in the absence of enabling innovations like a bridge course to raise a cadre of mid-level care providers to serve our primary healthcare needs. Connecting the dots: Providing bridge courses to Ayush practitioners to enable them to practice basic and limited allopathy is not just need of the hour given abysmal doctor-patient ratio but will have multiple other benefits as well. Comment. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Q.1) Consider the following statements about The Credit Guarantee Fund Scheme for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGS) It was launched to make available collateral-free credit to the micro and small enterprise sector Only the new enterprises are eligible to be covered under the scheme The Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, and Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI), established a Trust named Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) to implement the Credit Guarantee Fund Scheme for Micro and Small Enterprises Which of the following statements is/are correct? 1 and 2 1 and 3 2 and 3 All of the above MUST READ Making children happy The Hindu How the world explains football? The Hindu 'Grow in India' before 'Make in India' Business Line

Jun 22, 2018 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 7]

UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 7] Archives Q.1) Consider the following statements about ‘United Nations Human Rights Council’ The Council is made up of 47 United Nations Member States which are elected by the UN General Assembly. It checks if governments do what they agreed on at the United Nations to protect the rights of people in their countries. Select the correct code: 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) ‘Comprehensive Refugee Response Framework (CRRF)’ is associated with Brasilia Declaration New York Declaration Brazzaville Declaration Moscow Declaration Q.3) Which of the following statements about International Monetary Fund (IMF) are correct? It is a United Nations specialized agency It was founded at the Bretton Woods Conference in 1944 to secure international monetary cooperation The objective of the IMF is to stabilize currency exchange rates, and to expand international liquidity Select the correct answer using the code given below: 1 Only 1 and 2 1 and 3 All of the above Q.4) ‘Suriname’ is bordered with which of the following countries? Guyana Brazil Guatemala Select the correct code: 1 Only 1 and 2 1 and 3 All of the above Q.5) The well-known painting “Bani Thani” belongs to the Bundi School Jaipur School Kangra School Kishangarh School To Download the Solution – Click here All the Best IASbaba

Jun 21, 2018 AIR

All India Radio (AIR) : Bilateral Relations between India and Singapore

Bilateral Relations between India and Singapore ARCHIVES Search 1st June, 2018 Spotlight Analysis here: http://www.newsonair.com/Main_Audio_Bulletins_Search.aspx TOPIC: General Studies 2: India and the World 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. The close ties between India and Singapore have a history rooted in strong commercial, cultural and people-to-people links, with Singapore being a part of the "Greater India" cultural and commercial region. More than 300,000 people of Indian origin live in Singapore. Historical connection: India's connection with Singapore dates back to the Cholas. Modern historical connection: The more modern relationship is attributed to Sir Stamford Raffles who, in 1819, established a trading station in Singapore on the route of the Straits of Malacca which became a colony under British India, governed from Calcutta (1830-1867). The colonial connection is reflected in a similarity of institutions and practices, usage of English and the presence of a large Indian community. Present Connection: India-Singapore relations are based on shared values and approaches, economic opportunities and convergence of interests on key issues. India was one of the first countries to recognize Singapore in 1965. Singapore was one of the first to respond to India's "Look East" Policy of expanding its economic, cultural and strategic ties in Southeast Asia to strengthen its standing as a regional power. India's economic reforms in 1990s and the Look East Policy provided opportunities to recreate a new framework for cooperation, which included the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) of 2005. India and Singapore have signed the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) and strategic-relationship agreement in order to increase trade, investments and economic cooperation, and expanded bilateral cooperation on maritime security, training forces, and joint naval exercises, developing military technology and fighting terrorism. This robust relationship was elevated to a Strategic Partnership during the visit of Prime Minister Modi in November 2015 who signed a Joint Declaration on a Strategic Partnership with Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations. Singapore is India’s second largest trading partner among the 10-nation Association of Southeast Asia Nations The 5-S Plank - Five areas of cooperation to enhance bilateral relations – 5S Plank directs the relationship towards – Scale up: Trade & Investment Speed up: Connectivity Smart Cities and Urban Rejuvenation Skill development State focus The ties between Singapore and India are getting closer, particularly when it comes to strategic cooperation. The two states inked A bilateral agreement on air force training cooperation in 2007 (and renewed the agreement in both 2012 and 2017), An army bilateral agreement in 2008, and Have held a regular bilateral maritime exercise since 1994. In 2017, India and Singapore exchanged documents on bilateral naval cooperation and agreed to increase cooperation in maritime security, increase visits to each other’s ports, and facilitate mutual logistics support. With this robust security cooperation, the city state secured an all-around security ally that could help to train Singapore’s military force and guarantee the stability of the Malacca Strait. India has formalised a Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) in nursing with Singapore which would allow nurses trained in seven nursing institutions across India to gain employment in the South-East Asian country. India and Singapore concluded the second review of India-Singapore Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA). India and Singapore agreed to expand the coverage of tariff concessions, liberalise the rules of origin and incorporate new product specific rules (PSRs) to further enhance trade between the two countries. Both countries agreed to deepen their economic and defense ties as they signed eight agreements including one on logistics cooperation between their navies. In addition, economic interactions between Singapore and India are durable, based on the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) signed in 2005 and the amendment of the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement, signed in December 2016. Almost 8,000 Indian companies have registered in the city-state so far, making India the largest foreign corporate contingent in Singapore.

Jun 21, 2018 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs [Prelims + Mains Focus] - 21st June 2018

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 21st June 2018 Archives (PRELIMS+MAINS FOCUS) June 21: International Day of Yoga Part of: GS Prelims Key pointers: The International Day of Yoga is marked on June 21. The theme for the 2018 celebration, organized by the Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations, is 'Yoga for Peace.' The International Day of Yoga aims to raise awareness worldwide of the many benefits of practicing yoga. Governor Rule in Jammu and Kashmir Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – Indian Polity; Special provisions to Jammu and Kashmir In News: Governor N.N. Vohra took charge in J&K Vohra issued the proclamation to impose Governor’s rule under Section 92 of the Constitution of J&K, immediately after getting the President’s approval. It is important to understand difference between President’s Rule and Governor’s rule. Do you know? In all states of India, the government's failure results in President's rule. However, the process is slightly different in Jammu and Kashmir where not the President's but governor's rule is imposed. The President's rule in other states of India is imposed under Article 356 of the Constitution of India. Important Value Additions Under the provision of Section 92 of the Jammu and Kashmir constitution, governor's rule is imposed for six months, but only after the consent of the President of India. Under the governor's rule, the state assembly is either kept in suspended animation or dissolved. If it is not possible to restore the Constitutional machinery before the expiry of this six month period, the provision of Article 356 of the Constitution is extended and the President's rule is imposed in the State. Article 370 of the Constitution of India states that Parliament of India and the Union government jurisdiction extends over limited matters with respect to state of Jammu and Kashmir, and in all other matters not specifically vested in federal governments, actions have to be supported by state legislature. The government of India can declare emergency in Jammu and Kashmir and impose governor's rule under certain conditions. Matters related to defence, foreign relations, communication and finance of Jammu and Kashmir are under jurisdiction of the Constitution of India. Crux: Governor’s rule is imposed on Jammu and Kashmir only, while the President rule on the rest of India. Both these rules are imposed if the constitutional machinery fails in the state i.e. the government of state fails to run the state constitutionally. Governor’s rule is imposed for 6 months (in Jammu and Kashmir). If constitutional machinery is not restored within this period, then President rule is extended to this state too. (Therefore, even President Rule can be extended to Jammu and Kashmir) Article link: Vohra takes charge in J&K, reviews security situation Person in news: Chief Economic Adviser Arvind Subramanian resigns Part of: GS Prelims In news: Chief Economic Adviser Arvind Subramanian resigns About CEA The Chief Economic Adviser (CEA) is the economic advisor to the Government of India. The CEA is the ex-officio cadre controlling authority of the Indian Economic Service. The CEA is under the direct charge of the Minister of Finance. CEA enjoys rank and pay equivalent to that of a Secretary to Government of India. The CEA heads the Economic Division under the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA). Article link: CEA resigns, cites personal reasons - Today's Paper - The Hindu India’s first river interlinking project: Ken-Betwa project Key Pointers: Ken-Betwa interlinking Project aims to transfer surplus water from the Ken River to the Betwa basin through concrete canal to irrigate India’s worst drought-prone Bundelkhand region. On completion, the multipurpose project will benefit Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh in terms of meeting irrigation, drinking water and electricity needs of people across 6 districts in the two states. Pic link: https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2018/06/21/DEL/Delhi/TH/5_07/6301c8c7_2187648_101_mr.jpg Do you know? It is India’s first inter-State river interlinking project (among the 30 linkages proposed by the water resources ministry under its national water plan). Observe fig below – for 30 river linking projects Pic link: https://img.etimg.com/photo/49209064/interlink.jpg Concerns: Environmental, financial and feasibility impediments Ken-Betwa interlinking Project will be located within tiger reserve. It will submerge about 10% of the Panna Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh which has been feted as a model tiger-conservation reserve. Land acquisition, water sharing issues impede Ken-Betwa project Pic credits: https://img.etimg.com/photo/49209347/first-table.jpg Artile link: India's first river interlinking project caught in U.P.-M.P. tussle U.S. quits UN human rights body Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – International Affairs; International institutions and fora In news: United States announced its withdrawal from the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) terming it “hypocritical and self-serving.” Under Trump's presidency, the U.S. has withdrawn from the U.N. climate treaty and the UNESCO. About UNHRC UNHRC is a United Nations body whose mission is to promote and protect human rights around the world. It is an inter-governmental body within the United Nations system It meets at the UN Office at Geneva. The headquarters of UNHRC is in Geneva, Switzerland. UNHRC was established by the UN General Assembly in 2006. Then President George W. Bush was dismissive of the body. Under President Barack Obama, the U.S. joined it in 2009. Caution: Don’t get confused between UNHRC and UNCHR The United Nations Commission on Human Rights (UNCHR) was a functional commission within the overall framework of the United Nations from 1946 until it was replaced by the United Nations Human Rights Council in 2006. On 15 March 2006, the UN General Assembly voted overwhelmingly to replace UNCHR with the UN Human Rights Council. Since the Council’s inception in 2006, Human Rights Watch has been involved in strengthening its capacity to promote and protect human rights worldwide and be more responsive to the needs of victims of rights violations. Article link: US quits UN human rights body - Today's Paper Toothpastes contribute to antibiotic resistance Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – Health; Science and Technology Do you know? According to a study, common ingredient found in toothpastes and hand washes could be contributing to the rise of antibiotic resistant bacteria. Triclosan, a compound which is used in more than 2,000 personal care products can induce multi-drug resistance. Overuse and misuse of antibiotics could create ‘superbugs’. Triclosan is an antibacterial and antifungal agent found in your soap, handwash, talcum powder and even in the wall paint. In a world obsessed with cleanliness, antimicrobial agents like triclosan have been touted as the panacea for a disease-free world. But their use remains controversial: experts say indiscriminate usage of antimicrobial agents like triclosan over the years has led to bacteria developing resistance to them, leading to the need for stronger chemicals. Article link: Toothpaste contribute to antibiotic resistance - The Hindu (MAINS FOCUS) NATIONAL TOPIC General studies 2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector or Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources. General studies 3: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment. Inclusive growth and issues arising from it. Indian startup ecosystem: Changing landscape Background: A slew of policies has been rolled out under the “Start Up India” scheme, launched in 2016. It is an effort to address the challenge of unemployment amongst educated youth, by encouraging them to become job creators — not job seekers. Changing landscape: The global start-up landscape is still dominated by the West, though a discernible shift is underway. As per the Global Start-up Eco System Report 2018, the US remains the leader with a 41 per cent share of start-ups but China is closing the gap with a 35 per cent share of the market. A Grant Thornton-Assocham report estimates that there are nearly 10,000 start- ups in India, of which 43 per cent are tech-based ventures. Annually, close to 800 start-ups are taking root in the country. Bengaluru is one of the emerging global hubs. Flipkart, Ola, PayTm are some of the start-ups that have made it big. Start-ups are now occupying the social development space as well. Key ingredients for a successful start-up ecosystem: The USP of Silicon Valley, spread around San Francisco, is that- It is home to some of the major technology companies — Apple, Facebook, Oracle, Visa, Intel, Cisco. These companies have served as anchors for new companies, a large number of which are founded by ex-employees. The anchor companies end up financing start-ups, given the lower costs of research or product development, and provide access to global markets. The area is also home to two world class universities: Stanford and the University of California at Berkeley. There is also no dearth of capital with venture capitalists (VCs) providing flexible financing options. The three key ingredients for a successful start-up ecosystem are: A thriving city, availability of talent and capital and the presence of large companies. Indian start-up ecosystem: No dearth of talent in the technology space: According to the NITI Aayog, India has 2.6 million STEM graduates ( Science, Technology, Engineering and Math), next only to China. The Department of Science and Technology and the Ministry of Human Resource Development have approved the establishment of 13 start-up centres, 16 technology business incubators and six research parks in technical institutions across the country. Access to easy low-cost finance: Under the Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana, nearly 6.5 million loans of up to Rs 10 lakh have been sanctioned this year, with disbursement of nearly Rs 30,000 crore. Bank lending for larger start-ups remains a challenge because banks are averse to taking risks and charge high interest rates. VC finance offers a good alternative. The SEBI has recently liberalised the regulatory framework for VC. SIDBI has established a “Fund of Funds for Start Ups” with an initial corpus of Rs 10,000 crore to finance alternate investment funds. Government of India has also allowed exemptions from income tax and capital gains tax up to three years for investment in start-ups. Philanthropic organisations like the Tata Trust have also stepped in to finance incubation labs. What else can be done? Identifying start-up hubs and priority sectors- Twenty Tier 2 and 3 cities, with flourishing technology ecosystems, could be declared “National Start Up Hubs” for targeted investments to build linkages between industry, academia and finance. Pioneers of the Indian IT revolution could be roped in to create a pool of start-up mentors. Technologists and entrepreneurs of the Indian diaspora in the Bay area and other parts of the world could be one of the finest resources of this movement. A platform could be created to channelise NRI investment in technology-based startups. Conclusion: A “soft touch” and responsive regulatory framework will be required to support the rapidly changing technology landscape. The policies being implemented along with the suggestions made above will be right for catalysing an Indian Start Up Revolution, which could turn India’s demography to its advantage. Connecting the dots: Discuss the potential and the challenges for the Indian startup ecosystem. The landscape of Indian startup ecosystem is rapidly changing. Critically comment. NATIONAL TOPIC General Studies 3: Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies and minimum support prices Inclusive growth and issues arising from it. General Studies 2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Zero Budget Natural Farming: A model for the future In news: In early June, Andhra Pradesh government has recently announced that the State would fully embrace Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF), a chemical-free method that would cover all farmers by 2024. With successful pilot programmes that were initiated in 2015 and partners who brought experience in different aspects needed to carry out such a transformation, Andhra Pradesh has become the first State to implement a ZBNF policy. Natural farming: Subhash Palekar, an Indian agriculturist who practiced and wrote many books about Zero Budget Natural Farming, developed the ZBNF after his own efforts at chemical farming failed. He identified four aspects that are now integral to his process: Seeds treated with cow dung and urine. Soil rejuvenated with cow dung. Cow urine and other local materials to increase microbes. Cover crops, straw and other organic matter to retain soil moisture and build humus. Soil aeration for favourable soil conditions. These methods are combined with natural insect management methods when required. How is ZBNF beneficial? In ZBNF, yields of various cash and food crops have been found to be significantly higher when compared with chemical farming. Input costs are near zero as no fertilizers and pesticides are used. Profits in most areas under ZBNF were from higher yield and lower inputs. Model ZBNF farms were able to withstand drought and flooding, which are big concerns with regard to climate change. The planting of multiple crops and border crops on the same field has provided varied income and nutrient sources. As a result of these changes, there is reduced use of water and electricity, improved health of farmers, flourishing of local ecosystems and biodiversity and no toxic chemical residues in the environment. The programme can have a positive effect on many of the sustainable development goals through improvements in soil, biodiversity, livelihoods, water, reduction in chemicals, climate resilience, health, women’s empowerment and nutrition. Different from organic farming: In early 2016, Sikkim was declared India’s first fully organic State. But organic agriculture often involves addition of large amounts of manure, vermicompost and other materials that are required in bulk and need to be purchased. These turn out to be expensive for most small farm holders. Model for other States: Over the years, Andhra Pradesh has supported and learned from its many effective civil society organisations such as the Watershed Support Services and Activities Network, Centre for Sustainable Agriculture and the Deccan Development Society. Farmer-to-farmer connections as vital to its success. Farmer’s collectives such as Farmer Producer Organisations need to be established and these would be critical to sustaining the programme. A step-by-step increase in the area covered. The scaling up relies primarily on farmers and local groups — all in all, very much a bottom-up process. The approach taken to monitor the improvements is vital to understanding the outcomes of large-scale changes that are under way; this is critical to expanding the ZBNF to other States. With its combination of delta regions, arid and hilly tribal areas, districts in Andhra Pradesh are similar to those in other parts of the country and could therefore serve as a model for replication. Conclusion: The world is at critical junctures on many planetary boundaries and establishing a system that shows promise in improving them while supporting people sustainably is surely one worth pursuing. Connecting the dots: What do you understand by 'zero budgent natural farming' (ZBNF)? Discuss its benefits over conventional form of agriculture. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Q.1) Consider the following statements: United Nations proclaimed 21 June as the International Day of Yoga. The theme for the 2018 celebration is Yoga for Peace. Choose the correct code from below: 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) Consider the following statements: Governor’s rule is imposed on Jammu and Kashmir only, while the President rule on the rest of India. President Rule is not extended to Jammu And Kashmir State as Governor’s rule is imposed if the constitutional machinery fails in the state. Choose the correct code from below: 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) Consider the following statements regarding the features Jammu and Kashmir Constitution It declares the State of J&K to be an integral part of India It provides for Governor’s rule as appointed by President of India It clarifies that the permanent residents of the state are entitled to all rights guaranteed under the Constitution of India Select the correct statements 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 1, 2 and 3 Q.4) Which of the following organization is responsible for the preparation of economic survey in India? Department of revenue Department of economic affairs Department of revenue Department of financial services Q.5) Consider the following statements: Ken-Betwa river inter-linking project is the first river link project by the Central government. Dhaudhan dam is built as part of the project. Surplus water in the Bundelkhand region is transferred to other areas. Select the correct answer from the following codes 1 and 2 only 2 only 2 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.6) Which among the following are tributaries of River Yamuna? Betwa Chambal Son Ken Choose the appropriate code: 1, 2 and 3 2, 3 and 4 1, 2 and 4 1, 2, 3 and 4 Q.7) Ken-Betwa river linking project has received the final environmental clearance. A major chunck of one of the tiger reserve/national park will get submerged. Which is the tiger reserve that we are referring to? Panna Pench Kanha Bandhavgarh Q.8) Which of the following properties is true for a tooth paste? It is acidic It is neutral It is basic It is made up of Calcium phosphate, the material of tooth enamel MUST READ Neither new nor undesirable The Hindu Beating plastic pollution The Hindu The state is taking healthcare Indian Express River, state and Centre Indian Express Going beyond lateral entry in civil services Livemint

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