Feb 27, 2018 PIB

IASbaba PIB Weekly : Press Information Bureau – 18th Feb to 24th Feb, 2018

IASbaba Press Information Bureau 18th Feb to 24th Feb, 2018 ARCHIVES GS-2 Electoral Bearer Bond Scheme 2018: (Topic: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation) Electoral Bonds may be purchased by a person, who is a citizen of India or incorporated or established in India. A person being an individual can buy Electoral Bonds, either singly or jointly with other individuals. Only the Political Parties registered under  section 29A  of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 (43 of 1951) and which secured not less than one per cent of the votes polled in the last general election to the House of the People or  the  Legislative Assembly of the State, shall be eligible to receive the Electoral Bonds. The Bond shall be encashed by an eligible political party only through a bank account with the authorized bank. National Conference on “Agriculture-2022: Doubling Farmers' Incomes” (Topic: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation) The Government is keen to make agriculture policies and programs 'income centric' instead of 'production-oriented'. Budget for Agriculture: The budget for Agriculture has been increased from Rs.51,576 crore in 2017-18 to Rs.58,080 crore for the year 2018-19 while ensuring sufficient funds for each component of the Seven-Point Strategy devised for doubling farmers’ income. An announcement of Rs. 2000 crore for Agri Market Development Fund has been made, which shows the importance of the retail market in agriculture marketing. These markets have been called as GRAM (Gramin Retail Agriculture Market). Through these markets infrastructure of 22,000 Rural Haats and 585 APMC markets will be developed. ‘Operation Greens’ announced will benefit farmers growing Tomato, Onion and Potato. Seven-Point Strategy Emphasis on irrigation along with end to end solution on creation of resources for ‘More crop per drop' 'Provision of quality seeds and nutrients according to the soil quality of each farm. Large investments in warehouses and cold chains to prevent Post-harvest losses. Promotion of value addition through food processing. Implementation of National Agricultural Markets and e-platforms (e-NAM) to eliminate shortcomings of all the 585 centers. To mitigate the risk, introduction of crop insurance scheme at a lower cost. Promotion of allied activities such as Dairy-Animal husbandry, Poultry, Bee-keeping, Horticulture, and Fisheries. Cabinet Approves Creation of National Urban Housing Fund: For Rs.60,000 crores; The target is to cater to the demand of housing shortage of nearly 1.2 crore and make available housing to all by 2022, when the Country celebrates its 75th Anniversary of Independence. India-Morocco Cooperation Agreement in Railway Sector: The Cooperation Agreement will enable technical cooperation in the following areas:- Training and staff development; Expert missions, exchange of experience and personnel; and Mutual technical assistance, including exchanging of experts. Adjudication of dispute on Mahanadi River Waters: The Tribunal shall determine water sharing among basin States on the basis of the overall availability of water in the complete Mahanadi basin, contribution of each State, the present utilization of water resources in each State and the potential for future development (long-pending dispute between States of Odisha and Chhattisgarh on Mahanadi River) Agreement between India and Israel on Film Co-production: Co-production of an Indian film with an international party means that Indian producer can access international funds and can collaborate on the script, talent and distribution at international level. Co-production of a film under this treaty will qualify it to be national production both in India and Israel. Enable a common pool of creative, artistic, technical, financial and marketing resources of the two countries. The co-produced films will also be eligible for their participation as domestic productions in film festivals of both the countries and any other incentives which are available for carrying out production and post-production work in any of the countries. New Bill to ban Unregulated Deposit Schemes and Chit Funds (Amendment) Bill, 2018: To protect the savings of the investors; the Banning of Unregulated Deposit Schemes Bill, 2018 will provide a comprehensive legislation to deal with the menace of illicit deposit schemes in the country through, Complete prohibition of unregulated deposit taking activity; Deterrent punishment for promoting or operating an unregulated deposit taking scheme; Stringent punishment for fraudulent default in repayment to depositors; Designation of a Competent Authority by the State Government to ensure repayment of deposits in the event of default by a deposit taking establishment; Powers and functions of the competent authority including the power to attach assets of a defaulting establishment; Designation of Courts to oversee repayment of depositors and to try offences under the Act; and Listing of Regulated Deposit Schemes in the Bill, with a clause enabling the Central Government to expand or prune the list. Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Government of India Sign $ 84 Million Loan (Topic: Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate) For: Improvement and Expansion of Water Supply in the State of Bihar The tranche 2 loan is part of the $200 million multi-tranche financing facility (MFF) for the Bihar Urban Development Investment Program that was approved by ADB in 2012 to provide sustainable urban infrastructure and services in four towns in Bihar – Bhagalpur, Gaya, Darbhanga and Muzaffarpur. The Project 2 will improve access to better quality and sustainable water supply, for the people of Bhagalpur and Gaya towns. It will also promote better water management practices that will result in a citywide coverage with 24-hour uninterrupted supply of treated water of 135 litres per capita per day in both cities. Support civil works subprojects and would benefit 1.1 million people in the two project towns with increased coverage of treated water supply by 2021; train 400 urban local body (ULB) staff in the management and operation and maintenance (O&M) of water supply systems, and help ULBs improve technical and financial management of the water supply operations Indo-German MOU - Implementation Agreement in Sustainable Urban Development and Smart Cities in India (Topic: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests) Aim: To develop and apply concepts for sustainable urban development about the provision of urban basic services and housing in selected cities and Smart Cities in India Technical cooperation measure will support approaches for sustainable urban development in the area of integrated planning, provision of affordable housing and basic services with particular focus on water, waste water and solid waste management and mobility. The ‘Sustainable Urban Development Programme - Smart Cities in India’ project is supported by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and jointly implemented by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of India and Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ). MoU with Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC) (Topic: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests) Aim: To usher the “programme based research support” in addressing current and future global and local developmental challenges Revised Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) between India and Kenya In order to promote cross border flow of investments and technology, the revised DTAA provides for reduction in withholding tax rates from 15% to 10% on dividends, from 15% to 10% on interest, from 20% to 10% on royalties and from 17.5% to 10% on fees for management, professional and technical services. The revised DTAA provides for a new Article on Limitation of Benefits to allow treaty benefits to bonafide residents of both countries, to combat treaty abuse by third country residents and to allow application of domestic law to prevent tax avoidance or evasion. The Article on Exchange of Information has been updated to the latest international standard to provide for exchange of information, including banking information for tax purposes, to the widest possible extent. A new Article on Assistance in Collection of Taxes has also been provided in the revised treaty which will enable assistance in collection of tax revenue claims between both countries. How is it beneficial? Improve transparency in tax matters Help curb tax evasion and tax avoidance Remove double taxation Stimulate the flow of investment, technology and services GS-3 Features of National Agriculture Market (e-NAM) Platform (Topic: Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies and minimum support prices; Public Distribution System- objectives, functioning, limitations, revamping; issues of buffer stocks and food security; Technology missions) The Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare launches six new user friendly features of National Agriculture Market (e-NAM) Platform: e-NAM Mobile App: Facilitate the farmers to do advance Gate Entry on Mobile app which in turn will reduce a lot of time for farmers coming in the Mandi and will bring huge efficiency and facilitate smooth arrival recording at the Gate Farmers can see the progress of their lot being traded Real time bidding progress of price will be visible to farmers on Mobile App During the trade, facility of viewing the assaying certificate is made available to traders on the mobile app. Now, online payment by trader (buyer) can also be done from e-NAM Mobile App through debit card and net banking. This will help buyers to transfer the payment directly through the App and make it easier for traders in online payment to farmers. Also, SMS alert to farmer on receiving payment in their bank account will be sent thereby helping farmers in getting information of payment receipt. BHIM payment facility: To ease out payment to farmers which will also reduce the payment realization time from buyers’ account to the pool account and in turn disbursal to farmers. New and improved Website with eLearning Module: Live status of markets of e-NAM based on gate entry, latest information on events, dynamic training calendar etc. E-Learning module in Hindi language on how to operate the system and continuously get trained on the system at their convenience. MIS Dashboard: Based on Business intelligence will provide a greater insight into the performance of each Mandi in terms of arrival and trade. Help the Mandi Board officials and APMC Secretary to compare the performance of each Mandi on daily, weekly, monthly/quarterly and Year-on-Year Basis Enable officials and Mandi Secretary in doing actual trade analysis from commodity level to State level operation Beneficial for the Mandi Board and Mandi Secretary in planning and coordinating their operation post historical analysis. Grievance Redressal Management System for Mandi Secretaries: Help raise technology issues related to portal/ software and its operation and also track the status of redressal of their query online. Integration with Farmer Database: For registration process to become easier and easy identification of farmers increasing the efficiency and reduce queue time. This will help in managing the load at the Gate more efficiently during peak time in Rabi and Kharif and reduce waiting time for farmers at the entry gate. Indian scientists develop next generation technology loop to generate clean energy (Topic: Infrastructure: Green & Clean Energy) What: Indian scientists have developed a super critical carbon di oxide Brayton test loop facility that would help generate clean energy from future power plants including solar thermal. India’s first test-bed for next generation, efficient, compact, waterless super critical carbon dioxide Brayton cycle test loop for power generation. The first test loop coupled with solar heat source in the world. By: Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore The new generation high efficiency power plants with closed cycle CO2 as the working fluid have the potential to replace steam based nuclear and thermal power plants, thus reducing the carbon foot print significantly. This test loop is designed to generate the necessary data for future development of scaled up S-CO2  power plants, which would require overcoming several technological challenges –developing critical components such as the turbine, compressor and heat exchangers that can work at the desired pressure and temperature ranges and using materials that can withstand these conditions. Today’s thermal power plants use steam to carry heat away from the source and turn a turbine to generate power. However, it could generate more power if, instead of steam, supercritical CO2 (SCO2) is used. The term “supercritical” describes the state of carbon dioxide above its critical temperature of 31°C and critical pressure of 73 atmospheres making it twice as dense as steam. Advantages: The efficiency of energy conversion could also be significantly increased─by as much as 50 percent or more─if S-CO2 is operated in a closed loop Brayton cycle. Increases power generation and makes the process more efficient Smaller turbines and power blocks can make the power plant cheaper, while higher efficiency would significantly reduce CO2 emissions for fossil fuel based plants. Moreover, if the power plant used solar or nuclear heat source, it would mean higher capacity at lower operating costs. Please Note: Governor of Maharashtra: C.Vidhya Sagar Rao Chief Minister of Maharastra: Devendra Fadnavis Bharat-Net: Providing broad-band Internet connectivity to our villages Swajal: A community owned drinking water programme for sustained drinking water supply. Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP): Intended to establish first Health Information Exchange by connecting various Hospital Information Systems from 10 Indian States. National Health Policy (2017) of India clearly articulates the healthcare aspirations of people of India with three distinct goals. First Goal: Ensure district-level electronic database of information on health system components by 2020, which largely means moving away from paper-based data collection and recording in public health system to use of sophisticated computerized tools for improving functioning of hospitals and health system Second goal: To strengthen the health surveillance system and establish registries for diseases of public health importance by 2020, where we intend to create registries to support epidemiological profiling of diseases to be better informed for targeted health interventions. Third goal: Pushes us to work for establishment of federated national e-health architecture, setting-up of health information exchanges and national Health Information Network by 2025 World Environment Day 2018 Global Host: India Theme: Beat Plastic Pollution SARAS: India’s indigenous light transport aircraft, completes the second test-flight successfully People in News: Sri Ramakrishna Paramhansa: Reverence and admiration for him amongst Bengali elites led to the formation of the Ramakrishna Mission by his chief disciple Swami Vivekananda Nizamuddin Auliyala: A Sufi saint of the Chishti Order; Amir Khusrow was his student Excerpts from the Speeches: Between the Mind and the Machine – With the arrival of Artificial Intelligence, Bots and Robots, there is no doubt that our productivity will further go up. But, there are also rising fears of human redundancy because there is a competition between the mind and the machine. Such fears are neither un-founded nor new. At every stage of technological evolution, we have faced such doubts and questions. This leads to two views of the future. First brings hopes and aspirations and second brings fears of disruption    Technology opens entirely new spheres and sectors for growth.   It also opens up an entirely new paradigm of opportunities.  With each wave of new technology, many new opportunities arise.  New opportunities have always out-numbered the lost ones. Human ingenuity has always prevailed and it will continue to do so in the future.  This optimism stems from my firm faith in Ancient Indian Thinking that blended science and spirituality and found Harmony between the two/ for the greater good of mankind. The spirit of scientific enquiry was rooted in the pursuit of Truth. Our ancient texts go on to further list the mental faculties that assist in this pursuit of the Truth. श्रद्धा (dedication),मेधा (mental capacity), मनीषा (intelligence), मनसा (mind), शान्ति (peace), चित्त (elevated state of consciousnes), स्मृति (memory), स्मरण  (recall) and  विज्ञान (application of knowledge). The road ahead for Artificial Intelligence depends on and will be driven by Human Intentions. With every industrial revolution, the scalability of technology has increased manifold.  This has given human increasingly more power to create an impact in whatever he does through technology.  It is this ethic of development that will ensure equity for all people. The March of Technology cannot be at the expense of further increasing the difference between societies over access to technology. The evolution of Technology has to be rooted in the ethic of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas. Industrial and Infrastructure Security architecture Edifice of a good Industrial and Infrastructure Security architecture rests on three pillars – Physical security, the main objective of which is access control.  This is achieved by ensuring perimeter and campus security through fences, patrolling, sentry post, flood lighting and alarm systems. Security of Data and Information: This aspect has assumed significance in recent years as there are instances where data and information leakages have caused huge damages. Plugging these leaks is an important aspect of Industrial security. Emergency Response System which requires us to prepare a Contingency Plan to be able to respond to any emergency to minimise risk and to mitigate& reduce the extent of loss.  This is very critical to Industrial and Infrastructure Security. The perceived threats to Industrial and Infrastructure Security till recent times were three dimensional. Cyber Crimes has added the 4th dimension to these threats.

Feb 26, 2018 MindMaps

IASbaba’s MINDMAP : Issue – Climate Change and Farmers

IASbaba’s MINDMAP : Issue – Climate Change and Farmers 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)

Feb 26, 2018 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs [Prelims + Mains Focus] - 26th February 2018

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 26th February 2018 Archives (PRELIMS+MAINS FOCUS) Ombudsman scheme for NBFCs Part of: Mains GS Paper II- Government interventions, schemes by central government Key pointers: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued an ombudsman scheme for non-banking finance companies (NBFCs), offering a grievance redressal mechanism for their customers. An officer at the RBI not below the rank of general manager will be appointed by the regulator as the ombudsman with territorial jurisdiction being specified by the central bank. Any customer or person can file a compliant with the ombudsman on various grounds like non-payment or inordinate delay in payment of interest, non-repayment of deposits, lack of transparency in loan agreement et. The NBFC shall, unless it has preferred an appeal, within one month of the award by the complainant, comply with the award and intimate compliance to the complainant and the ombudsman. The ombudsman will be required to send a report to the RBI governor annually on 30 June containing general review of the activities of his office during the preceding financial year. Article link: Click here Waste to wealth: In rural areas Part of: Mains GS Paper II- Government interventions, schemes by central government Key pointers: The government plans to set up an online platform for trading in cow dung and agricultural waste under its recently announced waste-to-wealth scheme. The Gobar-Dhan (galvanising organic bio agro resources) scheme announced in the Budget, has the potential to create new jobs linked to waste collection, transportation, biogas sales, etc. India’s cattle population numbering 300 million produce 3 million tonnes of dung every day. This together with agricultural waste and kitchen waste could be used for producing biogas. The Gobar-Dhan scheme would not only keep the villages clean and sanitised, but also help generate additional income for people. Reference article: Generating energy and wealth from waste Article link: Click here (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 Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests Canada's PM visit to India Introduction: India-Canada cooperation can be seen as anchored on five Es: economy, energy, education, entertainment industry linkages, and empowerment of women. The recent visit of Canadian PM to India has many takeaways. Key takeaways: Countering terrorism: From the Indian viewpoint, the most important agreement signed during the visit is the “Framework for Cooperation between India and Canada on Countering Terrorism and Violent Extremism”. It commits the two nations to combating this phenomenon in all its “forms and manifestations”, and to facilitate “effective cooperation” on security, finance, justice, law enforcement and operations. Progress in this realm will spur positivity in other domains of mutual cooperation. Regional, bilateral issues: A close commonality of views emerged on several regional issues. The two Prime Ministers called for dismantling the infrastructure of support to terrorism “from across borders of Afghanistan”, a clear reference to Pakistan. The Maldives government was urged “to ensure early resumption of the political process.” On Myanmar, the need for voluntary, safe and sustainable return of the Rohingya refugees was stressed. Canada and India showed a common perspective on freedom of navigation and over-flight “throughout the Indo-Pacific region” and respect for international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. Canada implicitly shared India’s reservations on China’s mega Belt and Road Initiative. Other developments: The decision to expand the scope of Ministerial Energy Dialogue is noteworthy. A new Canada-India Track 1.5 Dialogue on Innovation, Growth and Prosperity was launched. This aims to establish contours of convergence through sustained research and brainstorming among experts, officials and business people. Potential: As a capital, technology and innovation-rich economy and an open, inclusive and multi-cultural society, Canada is highly relevant to India. It is sharpening its role as a Pacific Ocean power. India’s commitment to peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific should deepen geopolitical affinity. The two sides had forged close cooperation on energy and trade, including a civil nuclear cooperation agreement and a commitment from Canadian pension funds to invest in India. India and Canada have much in common as two pluralistic, diverse democracies with very strong people-to-people ties: there is an Indian diaspora of 1.3 million in Canada, besides 100,000 Indian students. Conclusion: The mutual interests are likely to drive the two nations to strengthen their strategic partnership. However, for this vision to turn into reality, the Canadian leadership needs to demonstrate greater sensitivity to India’s core concerns (the Khalistan issue). Connecting the dots: Discuss the potential and challenges of India-Canada relationship. For reference: India-Canada relationship: Issues & Potential AGRICULTURE/ECONOMY TOPIC: General Studies 2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. General Studies 3: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies Achieving the goal of doubling farmers' income by 2022 In news: The ministry of agriculture and farmers welfare recently organized conference to prepare a strategy for doubling farm income by 2022. Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized on four ideas: Reducing the cost of inputs. Ensuring remunerative prices. Reducing wastage at the farm level. Creating alternative sources of income. After two consecutive years of drought, in 2014-15 and 2015-16, farmers of many crops were hit by low market prices in several states in 2016-17. In view of widespread discontent, there is a sense of urgency about addressing their issues. Variation in agro-climatic conditions: Agriculture is subject to a lot of uncertainties, ranging from rainfall and pest attacks to market prices. Even within states, there is enormous variation in agro-climatic conditions, extent of irrigation, penetration of roads, proximity to markets, and availability of credit through banking infrastructure. In Uttar Pradesh (UP), for example- Western UP farmers have access to irrigation and banking infrastructure and are close to a large market in the National Capital Region. They grow sugar cane, rice and wheat, for which they are assured a fair price as almost the entire production of sugar cane is bought by sugar mills and rice and wheat are procured by the government. The agriculture in seven districts of Bundelkhand in UP, however, is mostly unirrigated, farmers have smaller holdings, and do not have easy access to a large consuming market. The requirements of Punjab’s agriculture may have little in common with agriculture in Maharashtra or Bihar. The annual income of a farm household in Punjab in 2013 (70th-round National Sample Survey) was Rs2,17,450 while in Bihar it was only Rs44,172. It is clear that doubling farmer incomes in Punjab is not only much more difficult but will also require a completely different strategy than in Bihar. Therefore, the strategy for doubling farmer incomes will differ from state to state, and from one region to another even within a state. In March 2015, the government had set up a task force under Arvind Panagariya, which submitted its report that year itself, but the report has not been made public. Key issues that needs to be addressed: The wasteful use of water for irrigation- The micro-irrigation fund of Rs5,000 crore announced in the 2017 budget has not yet taken off and wasteful practices in the use of water continue in most areas, especially in the northern states. Even in Punjab, we do not see any action on the emerging water crisis. Several ideas put forward by experts continue to be discussed in conferences but state and centre have not taken a single decision which would make a real difference to the wasteful use of water. Model land leasing law- A model law prepared by NITI Aayog, has been circulated to states but they seem to have ignored it.  The Union ministry of rural development, which deals with the subject of land leasing, has also haven't taken steps to see the implementation of the law. Considering price deficiency payment (PDP) system- To ensure that farmers receive remunerative prices. This has been tried in Madhya Pradesh (MP) in kharif 2017 and the results have not been very encouraging. The market price of some crops, particularly urad, continued to be much lower than the minimum support price (MSP) in MP, yet only 42% of urad production was brought to the mandis to avail of the benefit. NITI Aayog needs to examine various alternatives to ensure MSP to farmers. Conclusion: The states need to be persuaded to put useful and innovative ideas recommended by various committees and in conferences into practice for the goal of doubling famers' income by 2022 is to be achieved. Connecting the dots: Any strategy for doubling farmers' income must vary from state to state and from one region to other region within a state. Disucss. MUST READ Regulating the future The Hindu Can banking recover The Hindu Lives of others Indian Express Lawmakers with perks Indian Express India and Brazil's role in the bioeconomy Livemint Waste is best managed by monetising it Business Line

Feb 26, 2018 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz- 2018 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 150]

UPSC Quiz- 2018 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 150] Archives Q.1) Consider the following statements about naval exercise MILAN It is conducted under the aegis of the Andaman and Nicobar Command All the members of Indian Ocean Rim Association for Regional Cooperation (IORARC) participate in the exercise Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) Consider the following statements about Indian Ocean Rim Association for Regional Cooperation (IORARC) It is the brainchild of South Africa and India Maldives is not a member state Select the correct code: 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) Consider the following statements about Ruttom-2 It is a Medium Altitude Long Endurance drone (MALE) It is being developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation It can fly missions on manual as well as autonomous modes Select the correct statements 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.4) ‘Samruddhi Corridor’ connects which of the following cities? Mumbai and Ahmedabad Mumbai and Nagpur Bengaluru and Chennai Delhi and Jaipur Q.5) Consider the following statements about ‘Heavy Water’ It is water composed of the hydrogen isotope with a mass double that of ordinary hydrogen, and oxygen. Heavy Water Board (HWB) is a constituent unit under the Department of Atomic Energy It is used as a moderator of neutrons in nuclear power plants 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

Feb 26, 2018 AIR

All India Radio (AIR) : FDI Reforms

FDI Reforms ARCHIVES Search 10th January 2018 here http://www.newsonair.com/Main_Audio_Bulletins_Search.aspx TOPIC: General Studies 3 Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment. Effects of liberalization on the economy, changes in industrial policy and their effects on industrial growth. General Studies 2 Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. In news: the Union cabinet recently gave approval to a number of amendments in the FDI Policy. These are intended to liberalise and simplify the FDI policy so as to provide ease of doing business in the country. These are 100% FDI under automatic route for Single Brand Retail Trading Foreign airlines allowed to invest up to 49% under approval route in Air India 100% FDI under automatic route in Construction Development FIIs/FPIs allowed to invest in Power Exchanges through primary market Definition of ‘medical devices’ amended in the- FDI Policy FDI in single brand retail Business to business retail has already been liberalized. This is retail to consumers from the business. FDI policy in retail has been always controversial because ultimately it is throwing the door open to foreign investors in an area where there are large number of small domestic businesses like kirana shop owners, with small resources and limited ability to take on foreign competition. So any government looks at liberalizing the retail sector with lot of caution and circumspection. Initially, foreign investment was upto 100% in single brand retail through the government approval route. It meant that any foreign company could actually float a wholly owned retail company in India selling goods to consumers without any Indian equity. Now the government has decided that it doesn’t require to go to the committee of ministry that will look into each case and then take a call for their 100% approval. Now it will be automatic in the sense that the government control has been completely removed. The foreign companies which decide to come to India will have to inform the government and RBI will give clearance under the Foreign Exchange Management Act. This is significant in context of very slow pace of foreign investments in the retail sector. India has seen a remarkable rise in the FDI in last few years. Despite that the retail sector has acquired a small share in total FDI. FDI in retail in 2017 was 5% of the total FDI flows and 9% in 2016. The cumulative figure of FDI from 2001 to 2017 is at 4%. Thus, FDI flow in retail sector is still not large compared to 40 billion dollar base. With this liberalization, single brand retail will see some pick up in foreign investment flows. Conditions on single brand FDI Sourcing from domestic manufacturing- policy pre-announcement of the previous government too One outlet opened creates jobs in retail outlet, value chain in the upstream and downstream has a positive impact When there is 30% value addition or 30% domestic sourcing, there is job creation not only in retail sector but also in manufacturing sector which produce those items which are used by those single brand retail. It also creates opportunities for exports because when a big brand comes and sets up single brand retail chain in country, it also looks at various cost advantages obtained in the county and market and looks at sourcing some of those items for retail chain in some other country or own country. Apart from organized employment in retail sector, the sourcing of raw materials, intermediate and final goods for these single brand retail stores, job creation opportunities are immense. Competitive federalism will come A state which will provide easier clearances, provide better infrastructure and also has a more attractive domestic market will have an advantage in calling this foreign investors. No one loses Studies have shown that advent of single brand retail helps create an ecosystem in which both the kirana stores and large chains can prosper. India is a young market and there is large number of young population which is willing to spend money in items of consumption. With every single brand retail investor for a developed country coming in, it improves the basic infrastructure, the cold chains improve, and supply chains become more efficient. Thus, the rub off effect of foreign investment will be seen in retail sector. Complementing electronic commerce With its increased reach in the economy, single brand retail will put healthy competition to e-commerce. What is available on e-commerce sites will also available in single brand retail. Also, the single brand retail chain can sell its products through e-commerce portal and encourage the competitive environment to get better. FDI in aviation The policy in the aviation sector says that any foreign airline can invest upto 49% in capital of Indian companies operating scheduled and non-scheduled air transport services, up to the limit of 49% of their paid-up capital. Till now, the response from foreign airline companies has been lukewarm. Now, the government has also allowed foreign airlines to invest up to 49% under approval route in Air India. Together with it, GoI has put in place its privatization plan for Air India. The investment in the aviation sector, as a percentage of total FDI inflows in India is less than half percent. Not many foreign airlines have come to India. However, Indian airlines have done good in creating a competitive market. Conclusion Foreign investment is a major driver of economic growth and a source of non-debt finance for the economic development of the country. Foreign investments also bring in the latest technical know-how and generate employment. The government has taken many initiatives in recent years by relaxing FDI norms across sectors such as defence, PSU oil refineries, telecom, power exchanges etc. Thus, it is the time to capitalize on the foreign investments and make attempts to create a favourable policy regime and robust business environment. Key data for FDI in India Total FDI investments in India during April-September 2017 stood at US$ 33.75 billion Highest FDI in telecommunications sector - US$ 6.08 billion, followed by computer software and hardware – US$ 3.05 billion and services – US$ 2.92 billion. Maximum FDI equity inflows from Mauritius (US$ 11.47 billion), followed by Singapore (US$ 5.29 billion), Netherlands (US$ 1.95 billion), USA (US$ 1.33 billion), and Germany (US$ 934 million).   Connecting the dots: How does the foreign investments in India affect India’s economic growth? Critically evaluate in reference to major FDI policy decisions taken recently.

Feb 25, 2018 Motivational Articles

Creative Guidance – You are not an Island – Inspirational & Educative Articles

You are not an Island: The idea of competition has isolated man from everything around him. So much so that, he almost thinks he is an island; completely self-sufficient all by himself. The idea of individual effort is so enticing that he has completely forgotten the art of collaborating. There are few things that are best done alone. But most other actions are better accomplished through synergistic cooperation.  Most forms of learning can be enhanced through cooperation. When we step out of our egoistic self-deceptions and decide to learn from each other, learning becomes fun and engaging. It is better to be like a sponge that absorbs knowledge from all directions than to be like a molded brick refusing to interact with its surroundings. Most people fail to tap into this wonderful resource of cooperative learning. When you step out of your comfort zones and seek help from people around you, you will discover newer creative ways of learning. Why is it so important to have synergistic approach to learning? The most important reason being, human beings learn really well through interdisciplinary human interactions. Our minds better comprehend and retain information when the source of information is from multiple individuals and disciplines. The problem with functioning like an island is it is very easy to get cut off from the new changes that are happening in your stream of learning. You can be stuck on an island and completely miss the changes that are happening around you.  This problem is much more serious than it appears to be. This is where most individuals lose out on being current and up to date on what is happening around them. Also being individualistic comes naturally to us Indians. Co-operation is the whole problem with our upbringing and social conditioning. Somehow, we are not taught the art of cooperating and learning from each other. There is so much an individual can gain from letting go of his strong addiction to his personality and blending in with people and events happening around him. In this way the intitutive part of his mind can grasp information which would have otherwise been totally lost. Also this approach will help you to seek help from multiple sources. Any preparation is a combination of individual as well as cooperative skills. Nobody is an island all by themselves. Step out of your prison wall of ideas and take the risk of cooperating and coordinating with others. This will change your learning process tremendously.   “The articles are a copyright of The Ahamo Movement and IASBABA.”

Feb 24, 2018 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs [Prelims + Mains Focus] - 24th February 2018

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 24th February 2018 Archives (PRELIMS+MAINS FOCUS) Scrutiny of H-1B visa tightened Part of: Mains GS Paper II- International relations Key pointers: The U.S announced fresh measures to tighten the scrutiny of H-1B visa petitions, mandating fresh documentary requirements for workers at third-party worksites. The companies filing H-1B petitions for their employers will have to associate a particular project to the individual visa, which could be approved only for the duration of the project. The measures are intended to bring the client-vendor-employee relations in business models based on bringing high-skilled H-1B workers to America under closer scrutiny. The new move will mean H-1B visas may be issued only for the period for which an employee has work at a third-party worksite. The move will impact Indian IT companies that place H-1B employees at American companies that contract them, by imposing more paperwork and processing hurdles. Article link: Click here India's policy towards Rohingya Part of: Mains GS Paper II- International relations Key pointers: India is planning to expand the scope of assistance to pave the way for return of nearly seven lakh Rohingya (Arakanese Muslims) refugees from Bangladesh to Myanmar. The project is expected to help Bangladesh significantly, which is desperately seeking India’s support in ensuring safe return of the refugees. Indian plan India was prompt in sending 7,000 tonne of relief assistance for Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh beginning in last year. This was followed by a $25-million development programme to help Myanmar build the necessary infrastructure to rehabilitate Rohingyas in the troubled Rakhine State. India has taken a long-term view of the problem, avoiding quick-fix solutions. The project was spread over five years and refugee rehabilitation plan includes two layers of transit camps before ensuring safe rehabilitation in their villages in Rakhine. Security threat: Security experts in Bangladesh and India are unanimous that Rohingya refugees are adding to the security threat to the region. The Chittagong area, bordering Myanmar, where refugees are camped has been a hotbed of Islamic fundamentalism and provided shelter to the secessionist forces in the North Eastern India, in the past. The militant activities (in the North East) have come down after the Sheikh Hasina government clamped down on Islamists. However, the situation turned for the worse after the arrival of the Rohingyas. Bangladesh is afraid that disturbance in Chittagong may impact its growth potential. Chittagong has the country’s only sea port and is a destination of major investments from India, Japan and China. Both China and India are heavily investing in port and allied infrastructure in Rakhine State and are keen to invest in deep sea port in Chittagong. Given China’s influence in Bangladesh and Myanmar; the stakes are high for India. While China is keen to keep international forces out of the Rakhine dispute; India is trying to walk the tightrope of taking along both Bangladesh and Myanmar governments towards a viable solution for the Rohingya crisis. Article link: Click here India and Germany: Pact for smart city coopertion Part of: Mains GS Paper III- Infrastructure Key pointers: India has signed a MoU with Germany to develop modules for providing urban basic services and housing for smart cities. The MoU signed between Union Ministry for Housing and Urban Affairs and the German development agency GIZ would develop and apply concepts for sustainable urban development providing urban basic services and housing in select cities as well as smart cities in India. GIZ would contribute up to €8 million for the project which would run for a period of three years. Article link: Click here (MAINS FOCUS) NATIONAL TOPIC: General Studies 1: Social empowerment 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 The "Unwanted girls" in India Introduction: India has 63 million “missing women.” The 2018 Economic Survey gives us a powerful new number: India has twenty-one million “unwanted girls”. This number describes the girls who are born but not treated well. Crafting a new statistic that brings a spotlight to this problem will be an important legacy of the Economic Survey. Who are “Missing women”? These are the girls and women who would be alive today if parents were not aborting female foetuses. Girls getting less food and healthcare add to this count by raising female mortality. Amartya Sen raised this problem in 1990 with an article titled “More Than 100 Million Women Are Missing”. He counted the missing women across several countries such as India, China and Pakistan. Many people knew the problem existed, but Sen’s number, called out in the title of his article, made the problem salient. Today, there are 63 million fewer women counted in the Census in India than there naturally should be. Who are “Unwanted girls”? These are girls who are alive but likely disfavoured by their parents. They receive less healthcare and schooling, with life-long effects on their well-being. These girls are more precisely described as “less wanted” children. They are daughters that parents gave birth to when they were really hoping for a son. There are twenty-one million unwanted girls under the age of 25 in India. Common pattern of childbearing: A couple wants to have two children, ideally one son and one daughter, but it’s especially important to them to have at least one son. If they have two daughters in a row, they will keep having children until they get a son. In such cases, the last child in the family is a boy. By aggregating all families, it is seen that the sex ratio of the last child (SRLC) is male-skewed. SRLC is thus a revealing measure of parents wanting sons. The fervent desire for sons in India is not a feature of all less economically developed societies. For example, in the historical US, there wasn’t a male-skewed SRLC. The Economic Survey's analysis revealed that even Kerala and Assam have a male-skewed SRLC; if we only tracked missing women, these states would look problem-free. Pic credit: http://images.indianexpress.com/2018/02/epaper.jpg?w=450 In the figure above (from Economic Survey 2018), the right panel shows that last children are disproportionately male. The left panel shows that non-last children are more female; that’s because the child being female led the parents to keep having children in their quest for a son. Issue: Many couples have a girl when they were hoping for a boy. If the girls are nonetheless treated equally, this would not be much of a problem. Unfortunately, girls get fewer resources than boys. Even if parents treat their children equally, girls are disadvantaged by being in families with fewer resources to spend per child. Moreover, parents who passionately want sons, unsurprisingly, favour them once born. Boys are more likely to get immunisations. India shows a gender gap in stunting compared to other parts of the world, consistent with girls consuming less nutritious food. One study found that one year after parents were advised that their child needed surgery to correct a heart defect, 70 per cent of the boys but only 44 percent of the girls had undergone the surgery. This is why having 21 million unwanted girls is unacceptable. Way forward: Improve women’s earnings opportunities so that dowries are lower and women have more say in family decision-making. Better options for people to support themselves in old age, such as a good pension system, would make having a son less paramount to couples. We also need more efforts that take on society’s norms and try to reshape them so that people start valuing daughters as much as sons. Conclusion: A decline in the number of unwanted girls isn’t necessarily progress. Unwanted girls arise when parents keep having more children to obtain a son. Couples are becoming more reluctant to have large families and are gaining better access to ultrasound. “Trying again” might give way to more sex-selection. It will not be progress if we achieve fewer unwanted girls at the cost of more missing women. The goal should be for both numbers to come down. Connecting the dots: While 'missing girls' is an issue well know, the latest economic survey raised the issue of "unwanted girls". Who constitutes unwanted girls? Discuss the reasons behind ans ways to solve the issue. NATIONAL TOPIC: General Studies 2: Parliament and State Legislatures – structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these. The tussle between political executive and the bureaucracy in Delhi Why in news? The chief secretary (CS) of Delhi was reportedly roughed up by two MLAs in the Chief Minister's (CM’s) presence. One has heard of humiliation of officers before, but seldom involving the chief secretary. The CS is not an ordinary bureaucrat. He is the head of the civil administration in the state or union territory, an officer who represents not just his own service but all services within the civil administration. His word in sorting out contending arguments and dissension among officers is final. It is his duty to run an efficient administration and give the CM fair and impartial advice. In Delhi, the CS has an even more challenging role — he has to report simultaneously to the CM and the lieutenant governor (LG) and walk a tightrope between the vision and concerns of both, even when they are not always on the same page. Background: The capital’s asymmetric division of powers between the elected and the selected has been an issue in recent times. It vests the LG with absolute powers without corresponding accountability and leaves the elected chief minister faced with complete responsibility but without requisite powers. The basic principle of parliamentary democracy is that the elected executive decides policies and programmes while the bureaucracy executes them. There can be occasional friction. But overall, the two arms of the executive work in tandem, as a single, cohesive branch. In the eyes of the law, the actions of secretaries are actions of ministers. On occasions when secretaries disagree with their ministers, the latter either agree with or overrule the babus.  It is upon a CS that a CM is dependent for governance and delivery. The Conflict: The MHA, vide a notification dated May 21, 2015, added a fourth subject, “Services”, to the existing list of three subjects of Public Order, Police and Land which were already reserved with the Centre. Through a judgment on August 4, 2016, the Delhi High Court upheld the notification, ruling that “Services” was outside the domain of Delhi government. The high court also ruled that the “aid and advice” of the council of ministers is not binding on the LG. Hence, the elected executive in Delhi doesn’t have even a modicum of control or authority over government employees- from a peon to the chief secretary, the transfer, posting, appointment, creation of posts, service conditions, vigilance matters, leave sanction. Many appointments and transfers in the bureaucracy are made by the GOI without taking CM into confidence. The Delhi CS also coordinates with multiple authorities and agencies outside the Delhi Government. The performance of a CM is thus incumbent upon the performance of his CS and the secretaries of other departments with the CS at the top. But the Delhi CM can’t even pick a deputy secretary, leave aside his CS and secretaries. They are appointed by the LG without consulting either the chief minister or minister concerned. By vesting the LG with “Services” and the veto power on every aspect of governance, the Centre has made him the primary decision-making authority even with respect to transferred subjects. He convenes and chairs meetings on these subjects, where the chief minister and other ministers may or may not be invited. Cabinet decisions remain pending for long periods at the LG’s office. For example, the policy decision to establish 1,000 Mohalla Clinics was approved by the cabinet in November 2015 but the LG raised queries on multiple occasions and the project remained stalled for two years. The Delhi government’s petition challenging the Centre’s notifications was heard by a Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court in December 2017. The order is since reserved. Way ahead: The AAP has for long complained that the Centre is paralysing its executive functions through the Lt. Governor and that the bureaucracy is refusing to obey government orders. But the proper response to this is to keep pushing for the constitutional changes that will give Delhi full statehood rather than targeting police officers and civil servants. Both the Centre and the Delhi government must work together to see that the administration is not brought to a halt in the Union Territory. Conclusion: The very concept of parliamentary democracy is at stake. The current imbroglio is only a manifestation of a deep-rooted malaise. It is time to address the structural malaise afflicting Delhi’s body politic. The two pillars- the political executive and bureaucracy- need to hold the structure together, or else one would develop cracks and bring the other down with it or lead to a go-slow which would prevent doing things that matter the most. Connecting the dots: The capital’s asymmetric division of powers between the elected and the selected has been an issue in recent times. Analyze. MUST READ The champions of clean air The Hindu Adopting a wait and watch approach The Hindu Grid staility is key The Hindu Canary in coal mine The Hindu When technology drives farming The Hindu 

Feb 24, 2018

IASbaba’s Bimonthly Gist of Economic and Political Weekly (EPW)- 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 also help you in Essay, Sociology and PSIR Optional as well. This is the Sixth edition of Economic and Political Weekly (EPW)- Bimonthly Magazine. Hope you all like it 🙂 DOWNLOAD THE MAGAZINE

Feb 23, 2018 60 Days Plan 2019 - Daily Prelims Test

New Initiative- IASbaba's 60 Days Plan, 2018: The Successful Mantra of Thousands of Aspirants for Prelims

[wpcdt-countdown id="39499"] Hello  Friends,  Here we are with the most awaited initiative. An initiative that you can’t ignore, A ritual that you must follow, A habit you must nurture and A plan that you must internalize. Yes! We are talking about IASbaba’s trademark 60 Days Plan. On June 18, 2015, 1st day of IASbaba and we were with our 60-day plan for Prelims. On the first day, only 350 people visited our website (that too most of them were our friends giving us feedback).  Zoom to 2017, the 60-day plan hit a lakh plus a view on the very first-day plan itself. Yes, the one single comprehensive, holistic and FREE programme which has caught the imagination of UPSC aspirants across India is back and better! We need to talk a bit about the success of 60-day programme only to instil in you the importance of this programmme. If there is a single word answer to what capitulated IASBaba to the number 1 position, undoubtedly the genesis is in 60-day program. The 60-day program has the highest word of mouth which is the biggest factor amongst UPSC aspirants. And this is because IASbaba puts its heart and soul into this programme.You can realise the passion with which we conduct this program and other initiatives from our hit ratios………. Hit Ratios 2015- 40 Plus Questions 2016- 70 Plus Questions 2017- 68 Plus Questions There are few who tried to copy our 60-day program and failed terribly. Some came up with 90, some half of that and in different names. And most such has been the talk of ridicule amongst aspirants in their chai time :) The one program with absolute quality, clarity and prudence, we proudly present to you the 4th edition of the 60-Day programme. “Sometimes the smallest step in the right direction ends up being the biggest step of your Life. Tip – Toe if you must, but take that step.” Ever since the notification is out the entire civil services aspirant fraternity is in buzz. Many of the aspirants have already decided that they won’t be appearing this year as the seats are too less. As if they know that next year seats will be increased. Just like that, they are ready to waste one year of their life. Even those who have decided to appear this year are under too much of stress as well. Thinking whether they are good enough to compete or not. Before you put yourself in undue pressure, ask this question to yourself. If there were 200 more seats, would you have worked any lesser? Or, were you aiming for that last 1000th seat? No. Absolutely not. Everyone is aiming for that top 10 rank. That bracket is still available. The process is as tough as it was before. And you need only One seat for you! Obviously, when you consciously decided to step into this field, you knew that this is not going to be a cakewalk. You will have to put in efforts and toil till you reach the goal. Since it was your conscious decision to aim for Civil Services, back yourself up and work hard. You need to prove yourself that you deserve to be in this elite service. You need to prove that when odds were against you, you still got successful. But, thinking and being positive is just the first step that can sustain your journey. The second step is to set the wheel in motion. Do not think too much or procrastinate. Do the action. Plan your Days and plan your weeks. Still, there is enough time and a long way to go. The First phase of TLP is over. We hope that you used the platform to the fullest and inculcated the habit of answer writing. Do not worry much about Mains now. Considering, the lesser number of seats this year, the competition in Prelims is definitely on the higher side.  Now is the time to shift your focus to Prelims. As the competition has increased, there is no scope for error. Even one negative question can prove to be fatal for your journey. You can minimize your errors and maximize your score with constant practice. Solve as many questions as you can so that you become comfortable with MCQs. This will also help you to learn how to use elimination technique and how to make an intelligent guess. This year, 60 Days Plan would be bigger and better! And yes completely free in line with IASbaba’s philosophy! We are here with better analysis, more focus and more tangible takeaways. We want you to get equipped with certain tools that will help you keep track of your preparation and performance. Continuous improvement is what you require to get past the others. For that, you need patience and unbiased evaluation of your preparedness on a daily basis. We present you certain scales to track your progress on a daily basis and do the necessary course correction to bring yourself on track. But before that, let us do a small analysis of the mistakes that one commits in prelims. One’s level of preparedness is always different for different subjects. Even within a subject, one’s comfort level may vary with topics. For example, one might be more comfortable in solving questions of Polity than Economics and within Polity also, one might be at ease with questions on fundamental rights than Parliament. The level of comfort and ease that one has with a subject/ topic gets manifested in the examination. However, there is no conscious effort by aspirants to micro analyse these aspects. Now, coming to the second aspect i.e. the mistakes that one commits in answering MCQs, it can be said that there are mainly four reasons behind incorrect responses in the OMR sheet. They are: Lack of information Lack of analytical ability Silly mistakes Excessive risk-taking Let’s analyse them one by one: Lack of information: You simply don’t know the information. You are clueless and that’s why you don’t attempt the question. For example, you may have never come across a regime called the ‘Wassenaar Agreement’ during your preparation and you can’t do much about it. Lack of information is pardonable and rectifiable. You can read more and gather more information. That is within your reach. Lack of analytical ability: You know the concept but the question is a twisted one and you are not able to apply the concept. For example, in a question asking you to identify the climate type of a region based on certain given parameters like precipitation, temperature and air density, you might find it difficult to mark the correct option even if you are aware of all the options given in the question! That is clearly a lack of application and you can overcome it by developing a habit of framing questions in your mind while you study any topic. Silly mistakes: This habit is unpardonable. You know the concept, you become happy, you misread the question, you mark the incorrect answer and you are out of the race! Such mistakes reveal your hurriedness while answering the question. A simple mistake of reading ‘chose the incorrect option’ as ‘chose the correct option’ can destroy your chances. It means that you need to have patience and focus while attempting the paper. Excessive risk taking: You are confused between the options and just in order to increase your attempts, you make wild guesses and try your luck only to repent eventually. Risk taking is an art and one must be very careful while doing the guesswork in confusing questions. If you are not lucky enough, it can spoil your chances. You will realize that these problems will have different meanings for different people. For example, one might find lack of information as the main culprit in answering wrong the questions on Culture while in Polity, lack of analytical ability is usually the culprit. The point here is that you must analyse your preparation on these yardsticks by applying them to different subjects/ topics. If one is having a headache, he/ she can’t have the same medicine for fever. Isn’t it. This is where our revamped 60 Days Plan comes into the picture. It will give you an opportunity to micro analyse your preparation and perform better in the examination. The detailed micro plan for 60 Days is given here. You can download the PDF here. Note: You can also join our All India Prelims Test Series-Click Here, in case want to solve more questions. It has a total of 41 Tests including CSAT.  Integrated Learning Program (ILP)-2018- Click Here is also running that includes 35 Tests, Value Add Notes, Babapedia for Prelims Current Affairs and Mains Mocks with Synopsis.  Now, we present you the following scales (with weightage of each scale given in the bracket) to micro analyse your preparation on a daily basis and that too subject/ topic wise: Scale 1: Information meter (1) Scale 2: Analysis meter (2) Scale 3: Anxiety meter (3) Scale 4: Risk meter (4) Suppose on Day 1, questions have been framed from Polity on the topic of Constitutional History. There are 15 questions and you are able to answer 12 out of which 7 are correct and 5 are incorrect. It means you have scored roughly 11.33 out of 30. Now you have to fill on a daily basis, the following matrix to micro analyse your preparation: Suppose, the filled up matrix gets reflected in the following fashion: Based on the total value in this matrix, you have to aim for the following measures on the scale: Information meter < 4 Course Correction: If you are scoring above 4, it means that there are serious gaps in your information base in the particular subject/ topic. Please refer a standard textbook before it’s too late. Analysis meter < 4 Course Correction: If you are scoring above 4, you need to explore all possible questions in your mind while reading the topic. You should frame questions for your friends and try to trick them by twisting the questions. Anxiety meter < 3 Course Correction: A score above 3 indicates that you are either too excited or too callous to even read the question. You need to calm down and read the question twice, particularly those questions in which you feel too confident. Risk meter < 8 Course Correction: You need to curb your risk-taking instincts. Make an intelligent guess and don’t leave your chance on fate. Don’t let the previous year’s cut off impact your mind. Total N x S score < 20 Moreover, IASbaba will give a cut-off figure along with the solutions each day. If your total marks exceed that cut off along with your total N x S score lying below 20, you are on the right track and just need to keep the momentum going. This exercise will hardly take 5 minutes of your daily time but it might do wonders for you as you will be able to gauge your strengths and limitations better. Finally, it is up to you to take advantage of this framework. We are sure of only one thing- if you follow 60 Days Plan, assess yourself on the basis of the given framework and keep improving your weaker areas, success will be yours. Always remember, inconsistency and doubt lead to fear. And fear is something that ruins everything without giving you a chance. So, let us come together and enjoy the journey that lies ahead. So if you are ready for the programme - You need to make certain promises that – You will put in honest efforts in preparing the syllabus and then attempt the test. Review your answers honestly and post your score. Try to improve in every single test. Do not commit the same mistake – Ever. How to Use 60 Days? 60 Days should be part of your preparation- revision-consolidation. Questions will be posted around 11 AM. Solve the questions as you would do in UPSC Prelims examination room. Enter your attempt in the comment section on the day of the exam. After the solution is uploaded in the evening, come back and calculate your score. Under the same comment of yours, enter your final score, check your accuracy using the Matrix analysis given above and evaluate yourself. Do not miss this exercise at any cost. Kindly note: Daily Quiz will be merged with this from 1st March 2018.   If your efforts are honest, you will definitely clear the first hurdle and get a chance to prepare for the next battle. Remember, it is just a matter of 3 months from now. Forget about everything, your surroundings, likes and dislikes, friends and family and even yourself. Just focus on the target and do whatever it takes to achieve it. As compared to life, 3 months is a very short time to chase your dream. This is the moment, this is the time. Do not let it go in vain. There is a couplet – “Mita de apni hasti ko, agar kuch martaba chahe Ke dana mil ke mitti me, gulo gulzaar hota hai”   It says – Destroy your identity if you want to achieve a standard. As a seed destroys itself in the soil to become a flowery tree. Charge yourself and be that seed that is ready to transform.    Raise your hands if you are part of this journey in the comment box :) All the best IASbaba [wpcdt-countdown id="39499"]

Feb 23, 2018 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

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

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 23rd February 2018 Archives (PRELIMS+MAINS FOCUS) 'Founding Conference' of International Solar Alliance Part of: Mains GS Paper III- Energy Security Key pointers: As as many as 50 solar projects are expected to be committed at the ‘founding conference’ of the International Solar Alliance. The conference will be held at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi, where heads of States of most of the member countries of the alliance will meet for the first time ever. About ISA: The ISA was India’s idea, joined in by France, and was first announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the 21st Conference of Parties (COP21) meeting held in Paris in December 2015. The Alliance is to be a coalition of 121 countries whose territories lie between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn — the ‘sunshine countries’. So far, 21 governments have ratified the Alliance and the others are expected to do so in the coming months. ISA intends to reuse degraded land by putting up solar plants on them The Alliance is also helping member-countries develop their own solar policies. Article link: Click here India's rank slips in corruption index Part of: Mains GS Paper II- Important aspects of governance, transparency and accountability Key pointers: Despite numerous measures taken by the government to clean the system, India’s ranking in the global Corruption Perceptions Index, released by Transparency International, slipped two places to the 81st rank in 2017. The report also terms India as one of the “worst offenders” in the Asia-Pacific region in terms of corruption and press freedom. In 2016, it was ranked 79 among 176 countries in the index. In 2017, India’s ranking stood at 81 with a score of 40 among 180 countries. This year, New Zealand and Denmark were ranked least corrupt with scores of 89 and 88, respectively. About the index: The index, which ranks countries and regions on their perceived levels of public sector corruption, uses a scale of 0 to 100, where 0 is highly corrupt and 100 is very clean. 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 Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life Achievements of Indians in science & technology; indigenization of technology and developing new technology Adopting Electric vehicle(EVs): Challenges & Way ahead Background: Acknowledging the challenge of rising vehicular pollution in Indian cities, Piyush Goyal, then Union Minister for Power, said that from 2030, India would completely shift to using electric vehicles (EVs). The push for electric mobility was backed by the government think-tank, NITI Aayog, which has estimated that the nation can save up to Rs. 4 lakh crore by rapidly adopting EVs. Benefits: While transitioning from an internal combustion engine (ICE)-based regime to an EV-based one is challenging, the long-term benefits could outweigh the hardships significantly in the wake of India’s ambitious renewable energy plans. Jobs and the economic impact- India is the world’s fourth largest fifth auto market, where over 25 million motor vehicles are produced. The sector is estimated to provide direct and indirect employment to about three crore people and accounts for 7.1% of the nation’s GDP. The industry is estimated to grow to $300 billion in annual revenue by 2026, creating 65 million additional jobs, and contributing over 12% to the GDP. In October 2017, the Lancet Commission on Pollution and Health, attributed to air pollution an estimated 6.5 million premature deaths globally, with 1.1 million being from India. The database also placed 10 Indian cities in the 20-worst list. EVs will help check this vehicular pollution. Addressing fundamental issues: Ensuring coordination among stakeholders: EVs, unlike ICE vehicles, involve several actors at the national, State and city levels, respectively. In the first, it needs multiple ministries such as Road Transport and Highways, Housing and Urban Affairs, Heavy Industries, Power, New and Renewable Energy, External Affairs as well as national institutes such as NITI Aayog. State and city-level players need to be involved so as to address several technical and infrastructural needs. Coordination between all three is crucial in driving the EV agenda. Figuring out the best mode forward: China has focussed on the use of electric buses as a catalyst for EV penetration. It is the largest electric bus manufacturer in the world, with most in use in the country. In 2016 alone, about 80,000 electric buses were added to China’s roads. The Netherlands, on the other hand, has captured the EV market using a simple yet well-crafted strategy of creating charging infrastructure and encouraging investment in charging technology by providing incentives to EV buyers. Today, it has the densest charging infrastructure in the world and is a major exporter of this technology. These two case studies show that sustained growth is possible only due to positive economic impacts of EVs. Solving the battery challenge: The assumption that anyone who controls the battery will control electric mobility is true in the current scenario. India does not produce lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries currently, and companies making battery packs are dependent almost exclusively on imports from China. This is a cost-saving strategy as setting up a cell manufacturing unit in India would be expensive. Solution: Accelerating EV use in India should be linked to the “Make in India” goal and domestic battery production. Investment is required for research and development in battery-making and exploring alternative technologies. Charging infrastructure: EV charging is more than just using electricity. It involves exchange of information requiring a communication protocol. There is no unique or single-charging technology for EVs. The three major EV users, China, Japan and the European Union, have their own charging technologies which are often conflicting and not interchangeable. The absence of a standard global infrastructure is a major deterrent for EV penetration in India, as creating infrastructure can be cost-intensive. Solution: For this, the government needs to select or develop appropriate charging technology that avoids multiplicity and reduces the cost of infrastructure, while making it convenient and safe for users. Conclusion: EVs have the potential to disrupt the mobility ecosystem, and, if implemented well, could have a positive impact on the economy as well as the urban environment. India, however, needs a road map, with timelines, processes, well-researched impact studies, bold initiatives and robust investments in technological research to turn its EV dream into reality. Connecting the dots: While adopting Electric Vehicle(EVs), India is surely to face multiple challenges. What are these challenges and what is the way out? NATIONAL TOPIC: General Studies 1: Poverty and developmental issues, urbanization, their problems and their remedies 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 Generating energy and wealth from waste: The "GOBAR-Dhan" Initiative Introduction: In the latest budget, the finance minister announced the launch of “GOBAR-Dhan” (Galvanising Organic Bio-Agro Resources-Dhan). About the GOBAR-Dhan initiative: The initiative is expected to pilot similar opportunities to convert cattle dung and other organic waste to compost, biogas and even larger scale bio-CNG units. This programme, expected to be launched in April, aims at the collection and aggregation of cattle dung and solid waste across clusters of villages for sale to entrepreneurs to produce organic manure, biogas/bio-CNG. The initiative has two objectives: To make villages clean and generate wealth and energy from cattle and other waste. Making villages clean: The 19th Livestock Census (2012) estimates India’s cattle population at 300 million, putting the production of dung at about 3 million tonnes per day. Generating energy: Some European countries and China use animal dung and other organic waste to generate energy. But India has yet to tap the full economic potential of such waste. With the largest cattle population in the world, rural India has the potential to leverage huge quantities of gobar into wealth and energy. Swachh Bharat and the GOBAR-Dhan initiative: While the core mission of Swachh Bharat is to make India open defecation free (ODF), it also aims to make the country clean, both its urban and rural areas. Good progress has been made on the ODF front through massive behaviour change mobilisation, with rural sanitation coverage increasing from 39 per cent in October 2014 to over 78 per cent today, and about 3,20,000 villages becoming ODF. Usage of toilets has also been found through third party surveys to be over 90 per cent. A major thrust is now underway to promote general cleanliness and effective solid and liquid waste management in rural India. The challenge is adding value to the utilisation of gobar and incentivising farmers to think of their cattle waste as a source of income and, in the process, also keep their communities swachh. Cattle dung, kitchen waste and agricultural waste can be tapped to create biogas-based energy. Benefits: According to a 2014 ILO study, the productive use of dung could support 1.5 million jobs nationally. For the farmer, there is a significant potential of greater income from the sale of cow dung. The study also reports that the value of one kg of cow dung multiplies over 10 times, depending on whether the end product is fresh dung (sale price of Rs 0.13) or as input for a one megawatt biogas plant along with compost output (Rs 1.6). Challenge: One of the challenges for operating biogas plants, and even related higher value chain operations like bio-CNG plants, is the aggregation of cattle waste and maintaining a regular supply to plant operators. Case Studies: The Lambra Kangri Multipurpose Cooperative Service Society in Hoshiarpur, Punjab, generates energy from waste by aggregating cattle dung and other organic waste to run the biogas plant and providing metered cooking gas to members. The Gram Vikas Trust started the Gobar Bank initiative in Surat, Gujarat, where members bring fresh cow dung to the community biogas plant. The dung is weighed and accounted for in their passbooks. In return, they get cheap cooking gas as well as bio-slurry, the residue from the biogas plant, which is used for vermicomposting and organic farming. What needs to be done? Generating wealth from waste in rural areas will require the involvement of all actors and sectors. Investments from the private sector and local entrepreneurs will be needed. Panchayats and village communities will have to play key roles to leverage the animal and organic waste that goes into water bodies, dumping sites and landfills. Informal sanitation service providers can be integrated into the system by training and licencing them. Conclusion: With appropriate policies and practices, the waste to energy generation in rural areas can be scaled up into opportunities for growth, leading to increased incomes, long-term livelihoods and, of course, more Swachh villages. The GOBAR-Dhan initiative is thus a step in right direction. Connecting the dots: Discuss the objectives of the GOBAR-Dhan initiative. Also suggests what needs to be done to ensure effective implementation of the scheme. MUST READ The next innovation The Hindu Talk like a South Asia The Hindu Saving lives The Hindu An umbrella for the consumer The Hindu In the name of education Indian Express