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PIB

IASbaba PIB Weekly : Press Information Bureau – 25th Feb to 3rd March, 2018

IASbaba Press Information Bureau 25th Feb to 3rd March, 2018 ARCHIVES GS-2 GOBAR-Dhan - Galvanizing Organic Bio Agro Resources (Topic: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation) Aim: To ensure cleanliness in villages and generate wealth and energy by converting cattle dung and solid agricultural waste into Compost and Bio Gas (Under the Swachch Bharat Mission (Rural)) People will be encouraged to consider dung and other waste not just as a waste but as a source of income Will be easier to keep the village clean and sanitized, livestock health will improve and farm yields will increase. Biogas generation will increase self-reliance in energy utilized for cooking and lighting. Farmers and cattle herders will be helped in augmenting their income. There will be novel opportunities for newer jobs linked to waste collection, transportation, biogas sales etc. An online trading platform will be created for better implementation of 'Gobar Dhan Yojana', it will connect farmers to buyers so that farmers can get the right price for dung and agricultural waste. Cabinet Approves: Cabinet apprised of a MoU between India and Fiji on Cooperation in Renewable Energy: To establish the basis for a cooperative institutional relationship to encourage and promote technical bilateral cooperation on new and renewable issues on the basis of mutual benefit equality and reciprocity. MoU between India and Macedonia on cooperation in the field of Health: The MoU covers the following areas of cooperation:- Capacity building and short term training of human resources in health; Exchange & training of medical doctors, officials, other health professionals and experts; Assistance in development of human resources and setting up of health care facilities; MoU between India and Jordan on Cooperation in Health Sector: The MoU covers the following areas of cooperation: Universal Health Coverage (UHC); Health System Governance; Services and Information Technology in Health; Health Research; National Health Statistics; Health Finance and Health Economy; Chronic Disease Control; Tobacco Control; Diagnosis, Treatment and Medication in Tuberculosis; Regulation of Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices MoU between India and Jordan on Cooperation in the Field of Manpower: Aims at enhancing collaboration between the two sides in promoting best practices in the administration of contractual employment, reflects the latest reforms in recruitment processes and enhances the protection and welfare of Indian workers in Jordan. Collaboration between the two sides in use of online portal for recruitment of Indian manpower is expected to usher in greater transparency and curb malpractices in the recruitment process. Continuation of Prime Minister's Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) beyond 12th Plan for three years from 2017-18 to 2019-20 Objective: Create sustainable estimated employment opportunities for 15 lakh persons in three financial years Nodal implementation agency at the national level: Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) PMEGP: A major credit-linked subsidy programme being implemented by the Ministry of MSME since 2008-09. The Scheme is aimed at generating self-employment opportunities through establishment of micro-enterprises in the non-farm sector by helping traditional artisans and unemployed youth in rural as well as urban areas. A total of 4.55 lakh micro enterprises have been assisted with a margin money subsidy of Rs. 9564.02 crore providing employment to an estimated 37.98 lakh persons from inception till 31.01.2018. The Trafficking of Persons (Prevention, Protection and Rehabilitation) Bill, 2018: The Bill addresses one of the most pervasive yet invisible crimes affecting the most vulnerable persons especially women and children and broadly has the following features:- Addresses the issue of trafficking from the point of view of prevention, rescue and rehabilitation Aggravated forms of trafficking, which includes trafficking for the purpose of forced labour, begging, trafficking by administering chemical substance or hormones on a person for the purpose of early sexual maturity, trafficking of a woman or child for the purpose of marriage or under the pretext of marriage or after marriage etc Punishment for promoting or facilitating trafficking of person which includes producing, printing, issuing or distributing unissued, tampered or fake certificates, registration or stickers as proof of compliance with Government requirements; or commits fraud for procuring or facilitating the acquisition of clearances and necessary documents from Government agencies. The confidentiality of victims/ witnesses and complainants by not disclosing their identity. Further the confidentiality of the victims is maintained by recording their statement through video conferencing (this also helps in trans-border and inter-State crimes). Time bound trial and repatriation of the victims - within a period of one year from taking into cognizance. Immediate protection of rescued victims and their rehabilitation. The Victims are entitled to interim relief immediately within 30 days to address their physical, mental trauma etc. and further appropriate relief within 60 days from the date of filing of charge sheet. Rehabilitation of the victim which is not contingent upon criminal proceedings being initiated against the accused or the outcome thereof Rehabilitation Fund created for the first time. To be used for the physical, psychological and social well-being of the victim including education, skill development, health care/psychological support, legal aid, safe accommodation, etc.     Designated courts in each district for the speedy trial of the cases The Bill creates dedicated institutional mechanisms at District, State and Central Level. These will be responsible for prevention, protection, investigation and rehabilitation work related to trafficking.  National Investigation Agency (NIA) will perform the tasks of Anti-Trafficking Bureau at the national level present under the MHA. Punishment ranges from rigorous minimum 10 years to life and fine not less than Rs. 1 lakh. In order to break the organized nexus, both at the national and international level, the Bill provides for the attachment & forfeiture of property and also the proceeds for crime. The Bill comprehensively addresses the transnational nature of the crime. The National Anti-Trafficking Bureau will perform the functions of international coordination with authorities in foreign countries and international organizations; international assistance in investigation; facilitate inter-State and trans-border transfer of evidence and materials, witnesses and others for expediting prosecution; facilitate inter-state and international video conferencing in judicial proceedings etc. Launch of Aviation Multi Skill Development Centre (Topic: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation) What: A first-of-its-kind Aviation Multi Skill Development Centre (MSDC), a CSR initiative of Airports Authority of India (AAI) Where: Chandigarh Set up: In collaboration with the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) and is supported by the Aerospace and Aviation Sector Skill Council (AASSC) of India Aim: To train about 2,400 youth and women in 8 aviation job roles over the next 3 years as th demand for aviation skilled personnel has been rising commensurately with the boom in the civil aviation sector witnessed in the last 3-4 years. Air connectivity for both passenger transport and air freight is increasing, with new air routes and operationalisation of unserved or underserved airports through the UDAN Regional Connectivity Scheme. MRO and ground-handling demands for skilled personnel are also rising in tandem. Training Provider –BESTT– has been mandated to ensure job placement in the aviation and allied fields for at least 70% of the successfully trained students. International Conference on Sustainable Biofuels 2018 (Topic: Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate) Jointly organized by: Department of Biotechnology, Govt. of India and Biofuture platform The event is bringing experts and delegates from 19 countries together in Sustainable Biofuels sector to take stock of current knowledge, share information and best practices, and build consensus on the actions most needed to move forward. Use of fossil fuels for transportation contributes significantly to global greenhouse gases (GHG) emission. The sustainable biofuels have ability to reduce the GHG emission load and this consideration led to establishment of Sustainable Biofuel Innovation Challenge (SBIC) under Mission Innovation (MI). Advanced or second-generation biofuels produced from non-food biomass materials and specially grown high yielding plants or algae, if managed sustainably can contribute to significantly reduce emissions. However, many of the advanced biofuels still remain in pre- or an early commercial stage of development and need innovations and breakthrough for low cost sustainable production. Sustainable Biofuel Innovation Challenge: Aims to accelerate research, development and deployment of low cost, high GHG impacting advanced biofuels. Conferences/Seminars: 20th Conference of the Commonwealth Education Ministers (20CCEM) Held in: Nadi, Fiji Theme of the Conference: “Sustainability and Resilience: Can Education Deliver?” MILAN International Maritime Seminar What: A congregation of littoral navies conducted biennially by Indian Navy at the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, under the aegis of the Andaman and Nicobar Command. MILAN has now grown into a prestigious international event and encompasses participation by maritime forces from not just the Bay of Bengal and South East Asia but the larger Indian Ocean Region (lOR). Underlying theme: 'Friendship Across the Seas' Theme this year: ‘In Pursuit of Maritime Good Order - Need for Comprehensive Information Sharing Apparatus’ Besides fostering co-operation through naval exercises and professional interactions, MILAN also provides an excellent opportunity to the participating navies to come together in a spirit of collaboration and mutual understanding to nurture stronger ties. Second India-Korea Business Summit: Aim of the summit – To strengthen the economic relationship Boost trade relations Increase investments between India and Republic of Korea. Please note: March 8: International Women's Day; women are felicitated with 'Nari Shakti Puraskar' – Swami Vivekananda said 'The idea of ​​perfect womanhood is perfect independence' Swajal Yojana: Swajal is a community owned drinking water programme for sustained drinking water supply. Under the scheme, 90% of the project cost will be taken care by the Government and the remaining 10% of the project cost will be contributed by the community. The Operations and management of the project will be taken care by the local villagers. India’s first Trash Mahotsav: In Raipur, Chhattisgarh BIMSTEC: Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bhutan & Nepal – a joint disaster management exercise involving these countries 28th of February: National Science Day International Gandhi Award 2017” Dr. M.D. Gupte for his outstanding contribution to the global programme of elimination of leprosy Dr. Atul Shah for humanitarian services to alleviate the suffering of leprosy - affected persons. Note: In 2012-13, India recorded 83,000 leprosy cases with a prevalence of 0.68 per 10,000 population. Until 1st April 2012, 33 States and Union Territories had attained the levels of leprosy elimination of less than 1 case per 10,000 population. 542 districts out of 640 had also achieved elimination by March 2012. Need of the hour - Intensify our efforts towards early detection of leprosy cases + Provide equitable access to appropriate treatment + Provide integrated leprosy services + Empower those who have been socially discriminated through advocacy and information dissemination + Conduct research on the development of diagnostic tests and new vaccines Indo-US Delegation Meets for Defence Cooperation (8th Defence Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI) Inter Agency Task Force Meeting): The aim of DTTI is to bring sustained leadership focus to the bilateral defence trade relationship and create opportunities for co-production and co-development of defence equipment. SRIJAN (Station Rejuvenation Initiative through Joint Action): An idea competition for development of 635 stations for redevelopment of around 600 major Railway stations across the country Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has introduced UAN-Aadhaar linking facility for the convenience of members using EPFO Link in UMANG Mobile App.   Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank: What: AIIB is a multilateral development bank founded to bring countries together to address Asia’s daunting infrastructure needs; began operations in January 2016 and has now grown to 84 approved members worldwide. Headquarter: Beijing, AIIB Mission: To improve economic and social development in Asia by investing in high-quality, financially viable and environmentally friendly infrastructure projects. 2018: Theme: “Mobilizing Finance for Infrastructure: Innovation and Collaboration,” in recognition of the private sector’s vital role in bridging the infrastructure gap. Launch of the inaugural Asian Infrastructure Forum, which will gather infrastructure practitioners in a practical and project-driven discussion, focused on matching innovative finance to critical infrastructure needs. People in News: Chandrashekhar Azad Bharat Ratna (1954), Sir C.V.Raman Was awarded the 1930 Nobel Prize for his outstanding work on light scattering. He discovered that when light traverses a transparent material, some of the deflected light changes wavelength. This phenomenon, subsequently known as Raman scattering, results from the Raman Effect. Quotes: By Gandhi: “We need to preserve the multi-cultural nature of our country and the world. I do not want my house to be walled in on all sides and my windows to be stuffed. I want the cultures of all lands to be blown about my house as friendly as possible. But I refuse to be blown off my feet.” Writing in 'Harijan' in November 1947, Gandhiji said "Leprosy work is not merely medical relief; it is transforming the frustration in life into the joy of dedication, personal ambition into selfless service. If you can change the life of a patient or change his values of life, you can change village and the country". By PM of India, Shri Narendra Modi: The relentless quest to ask questions for knowing the truth is very important. And this is the very essence, the real inspiration behind scientific inventions and discoveries. Never rest till every ‘why’, ‘what’ & ‘how’ are answered. Three important factors of economy together: Democracy: The system based on liberal values which ensures free and fair play towards one and all; Demography: A vast and talented pool of young and energetic workforce; Demand: A big and growing market for goods and services Vice President of India, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu Two GDPs critical for the ‘Gross Domestic Product’: ‘Growth Driving Power’ from among whom are the ‘Great Dedicated Persons’

AIR

All India Radio (AIR) : Significance of PM’s visit to Davos

Significance of PM’s visit to Davos ARCHIVES Search 21st January 2018 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 Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India's interests In news: PM addressed the plenary session at world economic forum in Davos. Every year, there is a meet of around 3000 leaders of governments of world, corporate leaders. This year, PM focused on three issues- climate change, terrorism and protectionism. Significance of visit The Indian PM visited the WEF summit after 21 years to join world’s top business leaders. In global context- in 2017, Chinese president talked about friction less world and announced the arrival of Chinese economy in the global scenario. They are preparing themselves to take over the leadership of the world. This year, Indian PM talked about India’s global positioning, response to global issues, what are its aspirations. It is important in a world that is repositioning itself in the light of US not playing a big role in the global arena and china trying to take its position. In economic context- the world wants to hear from India on what the Indian economy, which presently is the fastest growing major economy in the world, its actions on reforms. India has undertaken several key actions such as demonetization, GST introduction, digitization programme, attack on black money, attempt to reduce inequality in Indian society etc. This has helped the investing community is interested in knowing what India has to offer. Diplomacy in soft power India has to send an important message of it being a crucial soft power in this fractured world. India has made its recognition that world is facing leadership vaccum and for that, India has answers to evils of the world. It is widely known that credibility and acceptability of India is more than China. Also, Yoga is potent display of soft power. Apart from it, India has lot to offer on economic, political and cultural fronts. While concluding- India’s economic growth potential will be put forward in context of current year’s agenda which is ‘shared future and fractured world.’ India’s recent rise in the ease of doing business index, upgrade of rating by moody’s are milestones being achieved to become world’s 3rd largest economy in next decade. The tone of ‘India mean business’ is now identified as Indian economy’s openness. Identifying that protectionism in era of globalization is harmful and countries should take care about it. Climate change mitigation will have full support from India’s side. Thus, India has pitched for itself ‘a statesman like position’ for the country to counter the protectionism and domestic rhetoric. Connecting the dots: India’s growth as 3rd largest economy in the world will see its impact on India emerging as world leader in geo-politics. Discuss.

IASbaba’s 60 Day Plan- Prelims Test 2018 POLITY & CURRENT AFFAIRS [Day 3]

Hello Friends,  The 60 Days Training has finally begun:) Before any competition, there is a preparatory phase. That phase involves a lot of sessions on strengths and weaknesses. Throughout the preparatory phase, the athletes train in a gradual manner. In the last phase, just before the actual competition, the training is done so as to sharpen their skills. This training requires complete focus and dedication. In this phase, the athletes do not try anything new or train in a new fashion rather focus on sharpening of skills, focusing on strength and precision. Similarly, the upcoming 60 days, is like the last phase (training session), just before the actual competition. Here, the focus should be on sharpening the concepts, consolidating the knowledge base and solidifying the learning with loads and loads of revision. CLICK HERE TO READ FULL DETAILS AND SOLVE QUESTIONS

Motivational Articles

Creative Guidance – Stress and Creativity – Inspirational & Educative Articles

Stress and Creativity: Stress is a state of mind where you have more thoughts flowing through your head than you can handle at any one point in time. Stress is simply the traffic jam of the mind. The triggering point for this stress is fear. Emotional, psychological, social or physical fear leads to stress. We all know the adverse effects of stress on the mind and the body. It is almost impossible to function when you are in severe stress. And in those moments when your stress levels are moderate to manageable, you can function but with no creative impulse. Most people struggle to handle the daily challenges of life because they wake up from bed in the morning stressed and continue to move throughout the day in a stressful state. Stress simply hides all the problems without ever giving an opportunity to the mind to see clear solutions. If creativity is the ability to be in the present moment to respond to daily challenges, then stress is the exact opposite of it. Stress is being so obsessed or fearful of certain things that they occupy your mind so completely that you are unable to be in this present moment to deal with what is happening around you. Just imagine you are learning to drive a car for the first time; you are behind the steering wheel for the first time and someone gives you a mathematical problem to solve. Trying to come up with creative solutions while being stressed is like trying to drive the car for the first time while solving a math problem. Even if somehow you manage to solve the problem, the solution will be all wrong. Stress is not a state of panic attack. Stress is a continuous flowing stream of agitation and disturbance. Stress is a state of constant worry, anxiety and fear. This is the kind of stress you need to guard yourself against the most. This is the stress that is the hardest to notice and has the greatest impact on your mental ability. The stress that doesn’t kill you but at the same time doesn’t allow you to live is the stress you need understand the most. Firstly, just becoming aware of this constant stress is a breakthrough. Once you become aware of your triggering points and causes of stress, it becomes very easy to handle it. The more you observe your patterns of stress; you will notice how idiotic and unnecessary most of your stressing is. You are stressed simply because you know how to get stressed. There is no absolute real cause of stress. It is all up there in your mind. Once you are able to go beyond this constant stress, you become a dynamite of creativity and energy. A mind that is stress free is so spontaneous and agile that no challenge is beyond its capabilities. Only a stress free mind can unleash your true potential. Beyond stress is the real you. “The articles are a copyright of The Ahamo Movement and IASBABA.”

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs [Prelims + Mains Focus] - 3rd March 2018

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 3rd March 2018 Archives (PRELIMS+MAINS FOCUS) Only energy-positive campus in India Part of: Mains GS Paper III- Energy security Key pointers: The Energy Management Centre (EMC), an autonomous institution under the Kerala government, has grabbed the global spotlight for its energy-positive campus, located at Sreekaryam in the State capital. The ‘Global Status Report 2017: Towards a zero-emission, efficient, and resilient buildings and construction sector,’ published by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), has listed the EMC campus as one of the recent achievements in the deployment of key technologies for energy-efficiency in buildings. The 40,000-square foot building is the only one from India to figure in the list, along with five other projects worldwide. According to the report, the EMC’s energy-positive campus was designed to allow natural cross-flow ventilation from building forms and openings. The EMC campus uses daylighting controls, CFC-free heating, ventilation and cooling systems, along with a halogen-free fire-fighting system. Solar reflectance index coating, combined with high-albedo painting and turbo-vents for passive cooling, has been used, and tropical rainforest trees help create cool surroundings. Only certified green construction materials, recycled wood boards, low-emitting paints and adhesives, and green-plus certified carpets have been used. Up to 94% of the built-up space is daylight illuminated. Article link: Click here Sea ice cover in Antartica on decline Part of: Mains GS Paper III- Environment, Conservation Key pointers: Sea ice cover in Antarctica has dropped to its second-lowest on record. Understanding the process of changes and the variability in the sea ice cover should be a “high priority”. Importance of sea ice: The ice cover plays a crucially important role both in the global climate system. It is a key habitat for a wide range of biota from micro-organisms to great whales. Sea ice conditions also have a major impact on shipping and logistical operations in the Southern Ocean. Article link: Click here (MAINS FOCUS) NATIONAL TOPIC: General Studies 3: Economic Development – Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment; General Studies 2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. National Finance Regulatory Authority(NFRA) Background: Almost all major economies today have independent audit regulators, with the most prominent ones being set up between 2000 and 2005. To share knowledge and experiences, the International Forum of Independent Audit Regulators (IFIAR) was set up in 2006. Today, IFIAR has 52 independent audit regulators worldwide. These facts indicate the significance, need and acceptability of independent audit regulators. Indian scenario: In India, discussions on setting up an independent oversight body had commenced almost a decade ago, however it is only now that it is finally close to being implemented. The inclusion of an independent audit regulator, National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA), in the Companies Act, 2013 despite all the opposition, was in itself a significant step at the time. But it has stayed in limbo. Conflict with ICAI: The arguments against setting up an independent regulatory body have always primarily centred around the fact that the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) has sufficient safeguards to ensure that the process does not result in self-regulation, particularly with the lack of awareness regarding the extent of responsibilities of an auditor among non-auditors. Objective of NFRA: The overarching objective is to enhance audit quality which, in turn, will enhance investor protection and public interest. NFRA’s extensive powers includes its ability to investigate, impose penalty and banning operations of auditors and audit firms. While we have witnessed penalisation of auditors (life time debarring) as well as audit firms (ban from undertaking specific work), we are yet to see any regulator in India prescribing remedial measures. NFRA will be addressing this shortcoming. Way ahead: For the success of NFRA, we need to ensure the following: The body remains operationally independent. Its decisions are subject to scrutiny and are transparent. Members maintain highest level of independence and prohibiting conflicts of interes. Clarity in the inter-se relationships with the professional bodies, clear distinction in the respective roles and responsibilities The Government and those involved in the process of defining the role of NFRA need to provide enough and equal attention to the other objectives, such as setting standards, monitoring compliance and, most importantly, suggesting measures for improvement in quality of audits. Conclusion: Operationalisation of NFRA is a step in the right direction and will help in reinstating the confidence of stakeholders and regulators. Most independent audit regulators have been set up on the back of audit failures, inadequate reporting and recognising the inherent weaknesses in self-regulation. What works to our advantage is that there is enough experience and knowledge across countries in setting up such a body. Their best practices can be used by NFRA.  This will be instrumental in ensuring a robust, world-class oversight mechanism. Connecting the dots: The government has recently decided to operationalize the National Financial Regulatory Authority(NFRA). What would be the functions of this organisation and why is it needed? Discuss. Reference article: National Financial Regulatory Authority(NFRA) NATIONAL TOPIC: General Studies 2: Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health Development processes and the development industry the role of NGOs, SHGs, various groups and associations, donors, charities, institutional and other stakeholders India needs a law against genetic discrimination Background: The Delhi High Court recently ruled against discrimination in health insurance by United India Insurance Company involving a person with a heart condition which was perceived to be a genetic disorder. This is a critical court decision around the broader question of discrimination on the basis of one’s genetic predisposition. As technology for genetic testing and tools to gather family history and compile them in databases become cheaper and more widespread, it becomes imperative that due social and ethical consideration be given to genetic discrimination as the implications are far-reaching and can affect everyone. American precedent: In the U.S., researchers recorded hundreds of cases of misuse of genetic information obtained through family history, genetic tests, or by employers and insurers accessing personal data. There are many examples of employers and insurers using genetic information to engage in discriminatory policies. In the U.S., the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) was signed into law in 2008. GINA provides strong protection against access to genetic information and genetic discrimination in the context of health insurance and employment. It prohibits insurers from “requesting or requiring” genetic tests from an individual or members of the person’s family, or using genetic information to determine eligibility or establish premiums. It also prohibits employers from “requesting or requiring” genetic information for hiring or promotional decisions, or when determining eligibility for training programmes. Other global examples: Canada’s recent Genetic Non-Discrimination Act makes it illegal for insurers or employers to request DNA testing or results. Insurers in the U.K. are currently under a voluntary moratorium agreed upon between the Association of British Insurers and the government until 2019. Based on this agreement, results from genetic tests are not to be used for health or life insurance except for Huntington’s disease, which is dominantly inherited with a high penetrance. A complex future: The situation is likely to get worse as people become more accepting of predictive genetic tests and insurance companies insist on them; at the moment, they generally use family medical history as the basis for determining premiums. In the medium term, there are also serious concerns related to the protection and privacy of medical and genetic data. Breaking into databanks is not impossible as even America’s Federal Bureau of Investigations and other secure firewalls have been breached. Indian context: India too needs a law that prevents genetic discrimination. In this era of rampant genetic testing, we need to prevent discrimination and uphold “equal treatment under the law”. Equality under the law cannot have exceptions. Conclusion: Everyone has genes for some predisposition or the other, this being the human condition. There should therefore be no discrimination based on genetic information. Connecting the dots: India needs a law against genetic discrimination. Discuss. MUST READ Fear of forefeiture The Hindu The adivasi in the mirror The Hindu China's new helmsman The Hindu

MindMaps

IASbaba’s MINDMAP : Issue – India's Chemical Industry

IASbaba’s MINDMAP : Issue –India's Chemical Industry Archives NOTE – Instructions to download Mind Maps/Images Right Click on the image and ‘Open in a new tab’ Remove/Delete the resolution part from the URl. Eg. “-1024×869” and Press Enter/Load Again Afterwards the URL will look something like this – “iasbaba.com/…./…/..-IASbaba.jpg” Right Click and Save As/Download (You’ll get the maximum resolution)

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs [Prelims + Mains Focus] - 2nd March 2018

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 2nd March 2018 Archives (PRELIMS+MAINS FOCUS) Tiger Conservation Part of: Mains GS Paper III- Environment, Conservation Key pointers: In November 2010, the first “Tiger Summit” in St Petersburg, Russia, endorsed a Global Tiger Recovery Programme aimed at reversing the rapid decline of tigers, and doubling their numbers by 2022. India was one of the 13 tiger range countries that participated in the gathering, at which leaders committed to “drawing up action plans to strengthen reserves, crack down on poachers and provide financial assistance to maintain a thriving tiger population”. Concern: A rapid survey across 112 tiger conservation areas in 11 range countries has now shown that at least a third of these areas are at severe risk of losing their tigers due to poor management. Three of the 13 countries, Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia have lost all their tigers. Pic credit: http://images.indianexpress.com/2018/03/toger-explained.jpg Reasons behind: Three-quarters of the surveyed sites had insufficient staff and lacked adequate management infrastructure. Efforts to stop poaching, manage community relations, and ensure safe havens for tigers and other wildlife are not up to the mark. Very few sites had intelligence-driven anti-poaching processes in place. Article link: Click here National Financial Reporting Authority Part of: Mains GS Paper III- Indian Economy Key pointers: As part of the government’s effort to strengthen oversight of the audit profession, the Union Cabinet paved the way for an independent regulator. The regulator can now investigate both chartered accountants and their firms. The move comes nearly five years after the company law provided for such a body to strengthen oversight of the audit profession. Till date, there was no legal framework to punish errant CA firms, but now the National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA) will fill this legal lacuna. The NFRA’s scope is being limited to cover CAs and CA firms involved in audit of listed companies and certain large unlisted companies. NFRA: Will act as an independent regulator for the audit profession Oversight of auditors in respect of all public interest entities will shift to NFRA NFRA will have a Chairman, three full-time members and a Secretary Article link: Click here Fugitive economic offenders Bill, 2018 Part of: Mains GS Paper III- Indian Economy Key pointers: It will be introduced in Parliament soon. Its enactment will force fugitive economic offenders to return to India to face trial for scheduled offences. This would also help banks and other financial institutions achieve higher recovery from financial defaults committed by such fugitive economic offenders. Cases in which the total value involved in such offences is Rs. 100 crore or more will come under the purview of this Bill The Bill will help in laying down measures to deter economic offenders from evading the process of Indian law by remaining outside the jurisdiction of Indian courts. All cases under this proposed law will be tried under the PMLA Act and the administrator will sell the fugitive’s properties to pay off the lenders. It will override all other legislation, and will lead to confiscation of all the assets (including benami assets) of the fugitive in India. Who is fugitive economic corridor? If any individual who has committed a scheduled offence and against whom an arrest warrant has been issued by a competent court leaves the country, refuses to return to face criminal prosecution, he will be termed as a fugitive economic offender. Article link: Click here (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. General Studies 3: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment Reducing carbon footprint in India through Emission trading scheme Background: With hot summers, warm winters, increasing diseases, famines and droughts, and violent acts of nature, we can see how climate change is affecting our daily lives. To join other nations in the war on carbon, India needs to undertake a comprehensive approach, which can be done by establishing an emissions trading scheme (ETS). Emission trading scheme: An ETS is a market-based mechanism where a cap is set on the amount of carbon dioxide or other greenhouse gases that can be emitted by covered entities. The emitters can either reduce their emissions to adhere to the cap or buy additional allowances from other entities to compensate for their deficiency. One allowance gives the right to the holder to emit one tonne of carbon. Imagine that ‘X’ emits 120 tonnes of carbon per annum. The ETS sets a cap of 100 tonnes of carbon per annum (equivalent to 100 allowances) on it. ‘X’ would have the option to either reduce its emissions to 100 tonnes of carbon or buy 20 allowances to cover the difference. Regulator to implement the ETS: A separate and independent regulatory authority must be set up to implement the ETS. The authority would ensure that the ETS is insulated from the political influence of climate sceptics. The authority must strive to educate emitters about ETS and inform them of cheap methods to reduce their carbon footprint. It must act as a ‘technical consultant’ when the emitters submit their ‘compliance plans’. It must also plan for contingencies and be ready to use the tools at hand to prevent market failure. Inclusion or exclusion of industries under the ETS: Highly carbon-intensive industries (such as the coal sector) would have to be included under the ETS to maintain its effectiveness. With respect to the other industries, State governments must be empowered to add to the list of covered entities after giving due weight to factors such as area-specific emission profiles, financial position of the entities, impact on the economy, and administrative costs. For instance, in Delhi, the commercial sector emits 30% of the city’s total carbon emissions, and in Ahmedabad the sector accounts for a mere 4% of total emissions. It would be reasonable to cover the commercial sector in Delhi under the ETS due to its large contribution to emissions. It would not make sense to cover the same sector in Ahmedabad, as the authority would have to bear unreasonable administrative costs to administer the ETS. Ensuring compliance: The ETS must obligate the emitters to design a ‘compliance plan’, setting out its own medium and long-term goals, with an explanation of how it would achieve them. The big emitters must be required to adhere to their compliance plans, and sanctions must be imposed in case of any non-compliance. It is imperative to maintain the price of the allowances within a certain desirable range. If the price of the allowances is too high, it may result in increased non-compliance and force the emitters to reduce output, thereby hurting the economy. Controlling price volatility: There are three suggested measures for controlling price volatility: safety valve trigger, price-based market stability reserve (MSR), and banking. A ‘safety valve trigger’ mechanism: If prices touch a predetermined level, actions are initiated to drive them down. For instance, under the U.S. Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, if the price of the allowances touches $10 after 14 months from the beginning of the programme, the compliance period is extended by one year. This mechanism allows the emitters to average out their emissions. For instance, say emitter ‘X’ (with a cap of 100 tonnes of carbon per annum) emitted 110 tonnes of carbon in the first year (due to sudden increase in the demand in the economy) and 90 tonnes of carbon in the second year. If the safety valve is triggered in the first year, X’s average annual emissions would be 100 tonnes, and X would not be required to buy any additional allowances. Price-based market stability reserve (MSR): In the MSR, a certain number of allowances are released in the market if the price of the allowance hits a predetermined level. Once the additional allowances are released in the carbon market, the supply would increase, leading to a reduction in the price of the allowances. Banking: It offers respite to the emitters on an individual basis. An emitter, in anticipation of high prices, would be allowed to ‘bank’ his unused allowances for the next compliance period. However, such banking must be restricted to consecutive compliance periods and to a certain percentage of total emissions. Conclusion: India can be part of the global mission to curb climate change through the above-mentioned Emission trading scheme. The government should explore this option. Connecting the dots: What do you mean by Emission Trading Scheme(ETS)? Does India need one? Discuss. 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 Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests Mastering the Indian Ocean Background: China has decided to become a major player in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). Smartly playing its economic and diplomatic cards, China has established a chain of maritime footholds in Myanmar, Sri Lanka and Pakistan, and acquired its first overseas military base in Djibouti last year. Recent developments in positive direction: India’s recent agreement with Oman providing access, for “military use and logistical support” in the new Port of Duqm, has raised hopes that India is, belatedly, strengthening its maritime posture in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). There have been other significant developments too; like President Ram Nath Kovind’s visit to Djibouti and its recognition by India. The conclusion of an Indo-Seychelles agreement for creation of air and naval facilities on Assumption Island; and The agreement with the UAE for joint naval exercises. Issue- Lack of over-arching vision: China has been releasing defence white papers every two years. Accordingly, Beijing has built a powerful navy that will soon overtake the US navy in numbers, lagging behind only in capability. New Delhi, on the other hand, has shown no tangible signs of strategic thinking or long-term security planning, as evident from a total absence of defence white papers or security doctrines to date. The navy did spell out, in 2004-05, its own vision of India’s maritime interests and challenges through a maritime doctrine and a maritime strategy. But, in the absence of higher strategic guidance in the form of a national-level document, they are of limited utility. Thus, the absence of an over-arching vision which conceptualises the IOR in a 50-75 year perspective that has led to the neglect of maritime issues critical to India’s vital interests. Examples: The Chabahar port project should have been completed long ago, notwithstanding US sanctions; The offer of Agalega Islands from Mauritius should have been taken up years ago; the Maldives imbroglio should have been pre-empted. Our disregard of distant Mozambique and Madagascar remains a huge maritime “missed opportunity”. The IOR strategic agenda may be soon taken out of India’s hands as the chairmanship of two important bodies, the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) and the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) devolves on the UAE and Iran respectively. Conclusion: In order to herald a renewed impetus to India’s maritime outreach and for the actualisation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 2015 “Sagar” vision, we need to have a coherent Indian maritime grand strategy. Connecting the dots: One of the important challenge in mastering the India Ocean is lack of a long-term strategic vision, unlike China. Critically analyze. MUST READ Mapping the Chinese century The Hindu Is AI a danger to humanity? The Hindu The government's role in conract farming Livemint Fiscal stress and revenue generation from Aadhaar Livemint Let's not teach towards the test Business Line

IASbaba’s 60 Day Plan- Prelims Test 2018 ENVIRONMENT & CURRENT AFFAIRS [Day 2]

Hello Friends,  The 60 Days Training has finally begun:) Before any competition, there is a preparatory phase. That phase involves a lot of sessions on strengths and weaknesses. Throughout the preparatory phase, the athletes train in a gradual manner. In the last phase, just before the actual competition, the training is done so as to sharpen their skills. This training requires complete focus and dedication. In this phase, the athletes do not try anything new or train in a new fashion rather focus on sharpening of skills, focusing on strength and precision. Similarly, the upcoming 60 days, is like the last phase (training session), just before the actual competition. Here, the focus should be on sharpening the concepts, consolidating the knowledge base and solidifying the learning with loads and loads of revision. CLICK HERE TO READ FULL DETAILS AND SOLVE QUESTIONS

IASbaba’s Bimonthly Gist of Frontline and IDSA-Edition 6

ARCHIVES   Hello Friends,  Continuing our effort towards right guidance and quality coverage to assist you in all possible ways, we are glad to introduce this new initiative where Frontline, IDSA and Economic and Political Weekly (EPW) will be covered considering the relevance of UPSC Examination. This initiative will help you in Essay, Sociology and PSIR Optional as well. This is the 6th edition of Frontline/IDSA- Bimonthly Magazine. Hope you all like it 🙂 DOWNLOAD THE MAGAZINE

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