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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
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.”
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.
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IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 6th July 2018 Archives (PRELIMS+MAINS FOCUS) Legalising Gambling? Part of: GS Mains II – Polity and governance In news: Law Commission of India (headed by Supreme Court judge B.S. Chauhan) report to the government – Allow gambling in sports but regulate it. Since it is impossible to stop illegal gambling, the only viable option left is to “regulate” gambling in sports. Recommended “cashless” gambling in sports as a means to increase revenue and deal a blow to unlawful gambling. Revenue from gambling should be taxable under laws such as the Income Tax Act and the Goods and Services Tax Act. Suggested that the revenue generated can be used for public welfare measures. Transactions between gamblers and operators should be linked to their Aadhaar and PAN cards so that the government could keep an eye on them. According to the Commission, foreign exchange management and foreign direct investment laws and policies should be amended to encourage investment in the casino/online gaming industry. This would propel tourism and employment. The Commission said regulations should protect vulnerable groups, minors and those below the poverty line, those who draw their sustenance from social welfare measures, subsidies and Jan Dhan account-holders from exploitation through gambling. Pic link: https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2018/07/06/DEL/Delhi/TH/5_01/76bf3bf4_2224597_101_mr.jpg Article link: Allow gambling in sports but regulate it, says law panel National Park in news: Bhitarkanika National Park Part of: Prelims - Environment and Biodiversity; Animal Conservation; Mapping Key points: Bhitarkanika National Park in Odisha The Bhitarkanika National Park is one of the largest habitats of endangered estuarine crocodiles in the country . It is a prominent heronry (breeding ground for migratory birds) of the State. About Saltwater crocodile The saltwater crocodile, also known as the estuarine crocodile, is the largest of all living reptiles, as well as the largest riparian predator in the world. As its name implies, this species of crocodile can live in marine environments, but usually resides in saline and brackish mangrove swamps, estuaries, deltas, lagoons, and lower stretches of rivers. They have the broadest distribution of any modern crocodile, ranging from the eastern coast of India throughout most of Southeast Asia and northern Australia. IUCN status: Least Concerned Human Space Flight Programme (HSP): success of PAT Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Science and Technology; Space Missions In news: In previous article we read that - ISRO is developing its ambitious Human Space Flight Programme (HSP). Since the ISRO does not have a human-rated launch vehicle or the budget from the government to undertake such a flight, it will not happen before 2024. Mission will be carried out on board a home-grown GSLV-III rocket. ISRO succeeded in conducting the first ‘pad abort’ test (PAT) PAT is crew escape system and with its success ISRO is a small step closer to sending Indians to space. Pad Abort Test [PAT] is for safe recovery of the crew in case of any exigency at the launch pad and are necessary for a future manned mission. Pic: https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2018/07/06/DEL/Delhi/TH/5_07/8a3af5bd_2224608_101_mr.jpg Create leprosy awareness: SC Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – Health and Social issue Leprosy on rise: India earned an honourable mention in a new WHO report on neglected tropical diseases (NTD), it is also one of the handful of countries around the world that have shown an increase in leprosy cases. The number of leprosy cases in India went up from 1,25,785 to 1,27,326 between 2014 and 2015. About Leprosy: Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae, an acid-fast, rod-shaped bacillus. The disease mainly affects the skin, the peripheral nerves, mucosa of the upper respiratory tract, and the eyes. Leprosy is curable and treatment in the early stages can prevent disability. Leprosy is curable with multidrug therapy (MDT). Leprosy is transmitted via droplets, from the nose and mouth, during close and frequent contacts with untreated cases. In news: Recently, Supreme Court directed the government to create awareness that leprosy is curable and not contagious. SC ordered All India Radio and Doordarshan to air programmes nationally as well as regionally in the States. Persons suffering from leprosy deserved the empathy from authorities as well as the society at large. They deserved to be treated with equality. National Leprosy Eradication Programme It is a centrally sponsored Health Scheme of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Govt. of India with the objective to arrest the disease activity in all the known cases of leprosy through early diagnosis and treatment. (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 Lynching Introduction: India has witnessed killing of over 27 people in 15 cases of lynchings by frenzied mobs blinded by viral rumours of child-kidnappers on the prowl across nine states — from Assam to Tamil Nadu — in the last one year. The Central government has finally moved to react to the lynchings reported from across the length and breadth of the country, but its line of action is bafflingly weak. With over 200 million active WhatsApp users in India, the country seems to have a serious problem with the spread of fake news, and nothing is being done about it. On the contrary, India told Facebook-owned WhatsApp to take "immediate action" after a spate of these horrific lynchings sparked by false rumours was shared on the messaging service. Unfortunately, we cannot blame a messaging app which is used worldwide, if the government itself fails to address the issues which are largely at play in the country. Why political messaging and administrative alerts are key to stopping the string of lynchings? WhatsApp alone cannot stop the lynchings. It is not clear how such a platform can take measures to limit the spread of motivated or sensational messages. Also, whether such checks would amount to legitimising surveillance and a loss of privacy — a rare commodity in this digital age. Even if it can do so without compromising privacy, the problem is not the medium. Rumour has historically found its way around communication walls, and it can only be effectively blocked through old-fashioned information campaigns and administrative alertness. Rumour’s potency predates mobile phones, even if there is no denying that smartphones, with their ability to instantly transmit text and images, have a tendency, in this era of fake news, to rapidly spread panic and anger. (One such example was unrelated video of an act of violence that went viral was responsible for fuelling communal hatred in Muzaffarnagar in 2013.) Concerns: It is puzzling that district administrations and gram panchayats have not been asked to reach out to locals to persuade them against falling for rumours, and to come to the authorities if they have any fears. One more key finding is that the proximity or distance of police from the scene of the crime doesn’t make a difference. In all 27 killings, the nearest station was 2-20 km from the spot — on an average, within 10 km. Yet, police were unable to reach in time. In the handful of cases that they did, they were heavily outnumbered. Clearly, the rumour and the mob moves faster than the police. Conclusion: WhatsApp in India can do everything it can, but at the end, it is the responsibility of the government to find a solution and stop the spread of fake messages. New rules need to be implemented and the police in the country need better tools to cope with false content being spread as well. India needs to take this up as a challenge and find a solution, as soon as possible. The messaging needs to be amplified — merely appealing to WhatsApp is hardly the solution. Connecting the dots: Mob violence and lynching are emerging as a serious law and order problem in India. By giving suitable example, analyze the causes and consequences of such violence. The State’s legitimacy to govern is at risk with increase in incidents like lynching and mob violence. Discuss. A draft anti-lynching law has been proposed. Discuss the need of such a law and apprehensions associated with the provisions of the draft law. Further also analyze how making law would not be enough, an effective enforcement machinery is the need of the hour. INTERNATIONAL TOPIC: General Studies 2: India and its neighbourhood- relations. Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests Current India’s Foreign Policy status Introduction: For India, it is very vital to maintain equilibrium with the U.S., China, Russia, the European Union and members of the ASEAN. With U.S., China, Russia – because, they carry geostrategic heft, with the U.S. still being the number one outside power balancer in almost every region of the world. With EU and ASEAN, as they two are economic powerhouses. India needs all of them, not one at the cost of the other. Losing its eminent position India has lost its eminent position in South Asia as a consequence of reckless adventurism in its neighbourhood. Today, the neighbourhood is bending towards China, with India looking on like a hapless bystander. For instance, India’s monopoly over geopolitics in Nepal is over, and there is another relationship that Nepal is nurturing. Even in Afghanistan, where the attention of what remains of the ‘Western Alliance’ is focussed, India is a non-player. (We can consider the case of Sri Lanka and Maldives too) India has also lost its pre-eminent position in the developing world as a consequence of its wilful abandonment of the leadership of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and other such institutions of the postcolonial world order. (PM Modi obtusely skipped NAM in 2016) Background: India emerged as the natural leader of the newly liberated nations emerging from the ravages of imperialism and neocolonialism in the late 1940s and early ’50s, a position it maintained with great care and perseverance even after the collapse of the Soviet Union when strategic thinkers were characterising the victory of the West as the end of history. The below article examines the cardinal errors one by one – India’s strained relations Neither during the Obama years nor during the current term of Trump administration has a single “big” idea emerged that could take the India-U.S. relationship forward. India has failed to clearly understand the Donald Trump phenomenon and India does not fit into the calculus of Trump’s new paradigm. The mimicry of Mr. Modi by Mr. Trump, the snub on the ‘2+2’ dialogue, and U.S. envoy to the United Nations Nikki Haley’s aggressive speech on Iran should therefore come as no surprise. NDA government had also failed to foster good ties with Russia and China. Russia holding anti-terror exercises with Pakistan in DRUZBA-2017 the ill-conceived boycott of the Belt and Road Forum in Beijing in 2017 invited the wrath of China via the Doklam standoff Prime Minister had to travel to Wuhan and Sochi to effectively pay ‘court’ to Presidents Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin, respectively. The worst casualty has, however, been India’s neighbourhood. In the past four years, the BJP government has swung from the sublime to the ridiculous on Pakistan, blockaded Nepal for not declaring itself as a Hindu Rashtra, lost Sri Lanka to the Chinese, been belittled by the Maldives and even Seychelles. Europe, Africa, Latin and South America have fallen off the map. The list is interminable. India’s foreign policy is up a creek without a paddle. Arguments in favour of present government under PM Modi Under PM Modi, India’s foreign policy has been on an upward trajectory. Country’s stature has grown significantly due to his leadership in the foreign policymaking process and charismatic role as India’s diplomat number one. PM’s vision is to turn India into a leading power and a net provider of security and prosperity. India is now widely acknowledged as an actor living up to its true potential, reflecting the aspirations of contemporary Indians. Two areas where Indian foreign policy has leapfrogged under Mr. Modi are cultural and commercial diplomacy. Well-thought-out policy reforms and emotional engagements with the Indian diaspora have added a force multiplier to nation’s soft power. By tapping into the transnational Hindu and Buddhist civilisational linkages and harnessing them for strategic benefits in our extended neighbourhood, Mr. Modi has reified India’s image as a repository of ancient wisdom that generates global public goods. Record levels of inward FDI flows and improvements in a range of global ranking indices bear testament to Mr. Modi’s success in economic diplomacy. In geopolitics, Mr. Modi has made decisive choices – He has broken free of taboos that restrained India from capitalising on closer defence and strategic cooperation with the U.S., Japan and Israel. Casting aside the obsolete concept of non-alignment and entering into deeper circumstantial partnerships to expand India’s geostrategic footprint are no minor accomplishments. India is working its way to becoming a third power centre in the world alongside the U.S. and China. India under Modi also challenged the U.S. whenever it has hampered Indian interests through trade barriers and economic sanctions. Challenges: India is facing a unique combination of diplomatic, security and strategic challenges today. The growing economic, defence and strategic partnership with the U.S. is being questioned on account of the transactional nature of the Trump administration, its unreasonable trade demands, its focus on other issues such as North Korea, and its sanctions related to Iran and Russia that are unmindful of India’s interests and costs. India’s hitherto reliable and largest defence partner, Russia, is becoming increasingly enmeshed with China and Pakistan. India’s neighbours, including the Maldives, Nepal and Sri Lanka, are exploiting new opportunities to leverage their possibilities with China vis-à-vis India. The picture is complicated. There are strong sui generis challenges and headwinds, requiring course modulation and adaptation. Conclusion: Foreign policymaking always faces challenges in an evolving world. India will also need to strengthen itself further economically and in its defence capacity, including in technology and production. It will also need to improve its capacity for implementation of agreed upon cooperation projects. Connecting the dots: What is your assessment of the foreign policy being pursued by the Indian government? Do you perceive any ideological shift? Examine. Discuss the paradigm shift in India’s foreign policy with reference to the changes brought by the new government. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Q.1) Consider the following statements about Leprosy It is a viral infection Loss of sensations over the affected skin is a typical feature associated with skin patches caused due to leprosy Select the correct statements 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) Which of the following statements are correct regarding Leprosy? The disease mainly affects the skin, the peripheral nerves, mucosa of the upper respiratory tract, and the eyes. A cure for leprosy is still not discovered and once infected a person can’t be treated. Leprosy is communicable and can be transmitted by droplets from nose and mouth. Select the code from below: 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.3) Consider the following statements about Bhitarkanika National Park It is included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites It is unique in being a swamp with floating vegetation Select the correct statements 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4) The salt-water crocodile is found along the: Eastern coast and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Western coast and Lakshadweep islands Gulf of Kutch and Gulf of Khambhat along with some areas near Gulf of Mannar All the Above Q.5) Consider the following statements regarding Bhitarkanika National Park It is surrounded by Gahirmatha Beach It is known for salt water crocodiles It is located in the mouth of Mahanadi Delta Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 and 3 only 1 and 2 only 1, 2 and 3 MUST READ Why we need Governors The Hindu A legend, a demystifier: on Balamuralikrishna The Hindu How to rule Delhi The Hindu Insecurity in cyberspace: on sharing data online The Hindu The price is right Indian Express A political price Indian Express The growth and inflation prospects for the current year Livemint
UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 17] Archives Q.1) Mekedatu dispute is concerned with Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh Karnataka and Tamil Nadu Karnataka and Goa Andhra Pradesh and Telangana Q.2) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant’ It has a pressurized heavy-water reactor (PHWR) type of nuclear reactor It is the first in the world to have post-Fukushima safety enhancement requirements implemented and operated successfully Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) Consider the following statements about National Commission for Safai Karamcharis (NCSK) It acts as a Non-Statutory body of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment The Chairman and the Members of the Commission are appointed by the President Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4) Consider the following statements with regard to Bharat stage emission standards (BSES) The standards and the timeline for implementation are set by Central Pollution Control Board India will be skipping BS-V and directly move to BS-VI from BS-IV Which of the following statements is/are correct? 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.5) Uruguay is bordered by Brazil Paraguay Argentina Select the correct statements 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best IASbaba
IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 5th July 2018 Archives (PRELIMS+MAINS FOCUS) Increased MSP to Farmers Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II and III – Government policies and schemes; Social Reforms; Farmer issue About: We kept reading - farmers’ groups agitating on the lack of announcement on MSP rates. Government had decided to offer a minimum support price (MSP) of at least 1.5 times the expenses borne by farmers for all crops. (Union Budget 2018) So finally the Union Cabinet has approved a hike in MSPs for kharif crops so that they are 50% higher than the cost of production, not including land costs. The decision was taken by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Do you know? The minimum support prices are announced by the Government of India at the beginning of the sowing season for certain crops on the basis of the recommendations of the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP). Outcomes: Increase in MSP is likely to inflate the food subsidy bill hike would boost farmers’ income and purchasing capacity inflation might rise due to higher food prices It could push domestic prices out of sync with global prices and destroy market discipline in crop choice, cost control and efficiency For more: visit - Why inflated MSP can’t lead to Farm prosperity? Bru people to get voting rights Part of: GS Prelims - Geography In news: More than 30,000 people belonging to the Bru community, who fled from Mizoram to Tripura in 1997 in the wake of inter-community violence, will be given voting rights. Remember tribe/community name - Reang tribe (known in Mizoram as Brus) Human Space Flight Programme (HSP) ISRO is developing its ambitious Human Space Flight Programme (HSP). Since the ISRO does not have a human-rated launch vehicle or the budget from the government to undertake such a flight, it will not happen before 2024. Mission will be carried out on board a home-grown GSLV-III rocket. Cashew processing units feel the crunch Part of: GS mains III – Food processing units and related challenges In news: The cashew processing industry in Andhra Pradesh may soon face a threat like in Kerala if the government fails to come to its rescue by offering subsidy on purchase of machinery for modernisation and other slew of incentives to increase crop production. In Kerala, almost 95% of units have been forced to shut shop due to high labour costs and denial of permission for modernisation. The main problem in the in Andhra Pradesh is the ageing of the crop – which is around 50 to 100 year-old — causing abysmally low yield. Key facts: The annual growth since 2004 has remained at 14 to 15%. To overcome raw material shortage, the processing units import eight to 10 lakh tonnes cashew nuts from Indonesia, Tanzania, Cambodia, Senegal, Ivory Cost, and parts of West Africa. Of three-lakh tonne crunchy cashew produced in India, one lakh is exported to the United States, the Europe, UAE, Malaysia, Singapore and neighbouring countries. In a recent representation, cashew manufacturers asked the government to remove 1 % cess proposed on cashew nuts by the Agriculture Market Committee and allot a site to open the office of the Cashew Export Promotion Council in Visakhapatnam. (MAINS FOCUS) INTERNATIONAL TOPIC:General Studies 2: India and its neighbourhood- relations. Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests INDIA-NEPAL: Time for India to play its cards right Background: In the year 2015, India-Nepal relations hit a low over the promulgation of the constitution and the Madhesi agitation. Nepal Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli, who assumed power in October 2015, accused Delhi of enforcing a nearly six-month-long ‘blockade’ between end 2015 and early 2016, in support of Madhesis. An entire generation of young Nepalis, who were already alienated from India due to the opening of newer education destinations, saw the blockade as a move against a neighbour which had not got its act right. Nepal decides to get freedom from being ‘India-locked’ Nepal had historically remained ‘India-locked’, rather than being termed landlocked, as it is dependent on India for transit to the seas. Being landlocked is not much of an issue as one can get sea-locked, like the Maldives, but to be completely dependent on a single country for transit rights (especially after blockade) became an issue to resolve. Therefore, Nepal government set vision to transform their land-locked Himalayan nation into a land-and-water-linked country and looks up to both China and India to meet that vision. Nepal-China Nexus In 2016 visit, Oli (for the first time) managed to push the agenda of a trade and transit agreement with China on the lines with special agreements with India. With the U.S. influence decreasing, globalisation on the world stage was captured well by China in 2017. China became the enabler of connectivity, world trade and dependency as it pushed its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). With Southeast Asia well covered and inroads made in Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, for China, Nepal is the obvious next country for engagement. Nepal continues to remain the best conduit for Indian markets for China. Therefore, Nepal will be connected with China through a railway network in addition to roads. While optical fibre cables already connect Nepal and China, transmission lines will connect the two countries, providing Nepal a much needed alternative to sell excess power. Rail and road networks will also provide Nepal an alternative for petroleum products that continue to remain the highest imported product. For Nepal, nurturing the relationship with China is more out of compulsion than choice. The way ahead for India Therefore, now the onus is on India to rethink on a long-term basis how to recalibrate its relationship with Nepal. Nepal is a place of opportunity for people from the border towns of India. The impact of the Nepal blockade in Indian border towns was so intense that it forced Indian traders to tap their own channels to end it. The perspective has to change in New Delhi to factor in Nepal’s concerns on the open border. India needs to also realise the new reality that its monopoly over geopolitics in Nepal is over, and there is another relationship that Nepal is nurturing. It is time for India to be proactive and redefine its engagement rather than continue to be reactive. Connecting the dots: India’s approach to its ties with Nepal needs recalibration keeping in mind the geostrategic significance of the landlocked nation. Examine. The current state of India’s relations with Nepal is unhealthy. The initiative to reduce suspicion and generate political comfort must come from the larger nation, which is India in this case. Discuss. NATIONAL/SOCIAL ISSUE 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. Internationalizing higher education Introduction: Since Independence, higher education system in India has witnessed various challenges – inadequate government funding poor quality increasing privatization and politicisation Only IITs and IIMs (which constitutes a tiny segment of a system that enrolls 35 million students) have shown some excellence. However, things are changing now, at least at the Central government level and at the top of the higher education system. Towards innovation The National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), implemented in 2016, is India’s first government-supported ranking of colleges and universities. It may in the future guide government financial support for higher education. It will provide the basis for differentiating among colleges and universities. It will force participating institutions to submit data on critical areas, permitting government to make key decisions. What needs to be done to create elite, globally competitive world-class universities in India? Apart from NIRF, two additional initiatives try to create world-class universities – Institutions of Eminence (IoE) project; and Graded Autonomy project Institutions of Eminence (IoE) project IOE project will recognise 20 universities, 10 public and 10 private, and provide significant government funds to the public institutions (no extra money to the privates) and give enhanced autonomy for them. It is similar to many of the “excellence initiatives” common worldwide in providing extra funding in return for innovative ideas to the winners. Graded Autonomy project The Graded Autonomy programme provides considerable freedom for academic, financial and administrative innovation to the colleges and universities participating. Given the often stifling bureaucracy of higher education, it will be a significant stimulus for innovation. Both public and private institutions are involved. The Graded Autonomy programme makes it easier to hire international faculty, traditionally very difficult to do. Do you know? Traditionally, colleges and universities have been restricted from deep international collaboration. There has been little emphasis on attracting international students — only 47,575 international students study in India compared to the almost 400,000 in China. Other initiatives: Study in India initiative It seeks to attract international students mainly from a group of African and Asian countries. It aims at doubling India’s tiny share of global student mobility from 1% to 2%. Government-to-government MoU India is moving towards signing a pact on mutual recognition of academic qualifications with 30 countries. Recently a government-to-government MoU was signed between India and France to mutually recognise academic qualifications, a historic development. Challenges India’s plan to upgrade 20 or more Indian universities to world-class quality will be complex. It will also take time and consistent funding, probably at a scale beyond what is envisaged in current plans. Universities should be granted with increased autonomy and freedom from the bureaucratic shackles of government. Innovative ideas from the top universities has been little evident. Internationalisation is central to academic success in the 21st century — and India has been notably weak. The inability in recent years to pass legislation relating to foreign branch campuses and other relationships with overseas universities is an indication of the problem. Carefully studying what has worked abroad may also provide useful ideas. India has shown academic innovations over the years, but on a limited scale and never in the comprehensive universities. Several Indian universities are finally awakening to the challenges of the 21st century. At least several innovative programmes, backed by government, are in the works. Implementing them effectively remains the key challenge. Connecting the dots: Why Indian universities faring so poorly? How can Indian Universities Improve their Global Standing? Why autonomy is important for universities? Analyse. Also discuss the emerging trends in higher education in India as far as autonomy of universities is concerned. Why doesn’t India have globally competitive institutions of education? Examine. What would it take to transform higher education in India? Analyse. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Q.1) The Reang tribe also known as 'Bru' is found in which of the following states in India – Chhattisgarh Andaman and Nicobar Tripura Odisha Q.2) Which of the following are correctly matched? Tribe State Reang Tripura Bhutia Sikkim Lepcha Arunachal Pradesh Select the correct code: 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 1, 2 and 3 MUST READ The paradox of job growth The Hindu Fuel: getting the mix right The Hindu How to rule Delhi The Hindu Insecurity in cyberspace: on sharing data online The Hindu The player and his part Indian Express Towards a people’s police Indian Express The radical monk Indian Express
UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 16] Archives Q.1) Consider the following statements about WIPO Copyright Treaty (WCT) It is a special agreement under the Berne Convention It has provisions to extend the protection of copyrights contained therein to the digital environment It grants the right of distribution and the right of rental Select the correct statements 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.2) Consider the following statement about ‘Beijing Treaty on Audio-visual Performances’ It is a multilateral treaty which regulates copyright for audio-visual performances and expands the performers' rights. India has recently ratified the treaty Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) Consider the following statements about ‘Stree Swabhiman’ initiative It is under the aegis of Ministry of Health Under the initiative, sanitary napkin micro manufacturing units are being set up at Common Services Centres (CSCs) across India, particularly those operated by women entrepreneurs Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4) Which of the following statements about ‘Khan Prahari’ App is/are correct? It is a tool for reporting any illegal coal mining incident It is done through geotagged photographs as well as textual information by any individual Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.5) Consider the following statements ‘DNA profiling’ is a forensic technique used to identify individuals by characteristics of their DNA Short tandem repeats (or STRs) are regions of non-coding DNA that contain repeats of the same nucleotide sequence Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 Nor 2 To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best IASbaba
Prime Minister’s Key Note Address at Shangri La Dialogue Search 2nd June, 2018 Spotlight here: http://www.newsonair.com/Main_Audio_Bulletins_Search.aspx TOPIC:General Studies 2: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate. Shangri-La Dialogue The IISS Asia Security Summit: The Shangri-La Dialogue (SLD) is a "Track One" inter-governmental security forum held annually by an independent think tank, the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) which is attended by defense ministers, permanent heads of ministries and military chiefs of 28 Asia-Pacific states. The forum gets its name from the Shangri-La Hotel in Singapore where it has been held since 2002. Since its launch in 2002 the Dialogue has built confidence and fostered practical security cooperation, by facilitating easy communication and fruitful contact among the region's most important defence and security policymakers. Narendra Modi became the first Indian Prime Minister to deliver the keynote speech at the Shangri-La Dialogue. PM Modi’s Address amplified the central and ongoing themes of India’s role on the world stage: India’s focus on its own long civilizational history of international engagement—and raising global awareness of that history India’s sense of itself as playing a linking role for the larger Indo-Pacific space India’s commitment to principles, rule of law, and a theory of equality for nations as part of its general commitment to the liberal international order. India’s Civilizational Past: Modi invoked India’s maritime history, highlighting the Indus Valley civilization port of Lothal (in his home state of Gujarat) as “among the world’s oldest ports.” He cited Buddhism as a regional link for the Indo-Pacific Singapore is our springboard to ASEAN: Singapore, for centuries has been a gateway for India to the broader east. For thousands of years Indians have turned to the east not just to see the sunrise but also to pray for its light to spread over the world. We have a growing political, economic and defence ties with each south-east Asian country. Global transit routes must be peaceful: The ocean carries 90% of India’s trade and our energy sources. It is also the life line of global commerce. India stands for a free, open, inclusive Indo-Pacific region, which embraces us all in a common pursuit of progress and prosperity. It includes all nations in this geography as also others beyond who have a stake in it. India’s “Act East” policy of stepped-up activity with the ASEAN region: He highlighted India’s work with the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium, the Indian Ocean Rim Association, and a series of regional organizations in which India participates: the East Asia Summit, ASEAN Defense Ministers Meeting Plus (the “Plus” includes countries outside of ASEAN), and ASEAN Regional Forum. In this presentation, Modi also noted India’s participation in organizations “bridging South and Southeast Asia”: the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation and the Mekong-Ganga Economic Corridor. Our trade in the region is growing rapidly, and a significant part of our overseas investments flow in this direction. ASEAN alone accounts for over 20%. India and China must work together: With trade between both the countries growing, Indo-China cooperation is expanding. We have displayed maturity and wisdom in managing issues and ensuring a peaceful border. There is growing intersection in our international presence. Globalisation- Key to development: This is a world of inter-dependent fortunes and failures. No nation can shape and secure it on its own. It is a world that summons us to rise above divisions and competition to work together. Is that possible? Yes it is possible. PM Modi sees ASEAN as an example and inspiration. Solutions cannot be found behind walls of protection, but in embracing change. What we seek is a level playing field for all. India stands for open and stable international trade regime. Equal access as a right: The Prime Minister also called for equal access as a right under international law to the use of common spaces on sea and in the air that would require freedom of navigation, unimpeded commerce and peaceful settlement of disputes in accordance with international law. Calling for an end to protectionism in this age of globalisation he said that solutions cannot be found behind walls of protection, but in embracing change. “Asia of rivalry will hold us all back. Asia of cooperation will shape this century.” Modi specifically affirmed India’s vision for the Indo-Pacific as a “free, open, and inclusive” region, not “directed against any country,” with “Southeast Asia at its center,” and a space that requires a “common rules-based order” that respects “sovereignty and territorial integrity as well as equality of all nations.” He underscored the importance of freedom of navigation and connectivity—and decried protectionism
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