UNIQUE IAS ACADEMY No.5/45 NVN Layout, New Siddhapudur, Gandhipuram, Coimbatore - 44
UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS JANUARY- 2020
S.NO INDEX PAGE NO
GS PAPER – I
1 INDIAN HISTORY CONGRESS 1 2 PRAKASH PARV 1 3 LAI HARAOBA 1 4 BIBI KA MAQBARA 2 5 ZO KUTPUI 2 6 EPIPHANY FESTIVAL 2 7 NEPAL’S SEKE ‘NEAR-EXTINCT’ 2 8 STATUE OF UNITY 4 9 HARVEST FESTIVALS IN INDIA 4 10 NAGOBA JATARA FESTIVAL 5 11 GATKA MARTIAL ART 5 12 TWO MEDIEVAL MONASTERIES 6 13 NAGARDHAN EXCAVATIONS 6 14 BHARAT PARV 2020 7 15 LALA LAJPAT RAI 7 16 SAVITRIBAI PHULE JAYANTI 8 17 MANILAL DOCTOR 8 18 NATIONAL POPULATION REGISTER 9 19 TRANSGENDER PERSONS ACT 10 20 BRU REFUGEES 11 21 MEDICAL TERMINATION OF PREGNANCY (AMENDMENT) BILL, 2020 12 22 NORTHEAST MONSOON 13 23 TALL VOLCANO 14 24 AUSTRALIAN METEOR CRATER 14
GS PAPER – II
1 KHILONJIA 15 2 SANTUSHT 15 3 SWACHH SURVEKSHAN 15 4 MODEL VILLAGE SCHEME 16 5 INDIAN RAILWAY MANAGEMENT SERVICES 17 6 ‘PURVODAYA’ : ACCELERATED DEVELOPMENT OF EASTERN INDIA THROUGH AN 18 INTEGRATED STEEL HUB 7 PARIKSHA PE CHARCHA 2020 19 8 PRAGATI 19 9 PRADHAN MANTRI RASHTRIYA BAL PURASKAR 19 10 SUB-CATEGORIZATION OF OBC 20 11 TELE-LAW 20 12 FMD & BRUCELLOSIS IN 2019 21 13 CYBER SAFE WOMEN 21 14 WORLD BRAILLE DAY 22 15 BURDEN OF MALNUTRITION 22 16 ANTARRASHTRIYA YOGA DIWAS MEDIA SAMMAN 23 17 UNDER-5 GIRLS FACE HIGH MORALITY IN INDIA: UNICEF 23 18 INTEGRATED ROAD ACCIDENT DATABASE 24 19 GLOBAL HEALTH CHALLENGES FOR 2020 25 20 ANNUAL STATUS OF EDUCATION REPORT 26 21 CENTRAL DRUG STANDARD CONTROLL ORGANISATION 27 22 THE PULSE POLIO PROGRAMME 27 23 NISHTHA 28 24 INTEGRATED CHILD DEVELOPMENT SCHEME 28 25 CORONAVIRUS 29 26 NATIONAL COMMISSION FOR HOMOEOPATHY BILL, 2019 30 27 NATIONAL COMMISSION FOR INDIAN SYSTEM OF MEDICINE BILL,2019 30 28 ME TOO CAMPAIGN 31 29 MINORITY INSTITUTIONS 32 30 NATIONAL MISSION FOR SAFETY OF WOMEN 33 31 NATIONAL COMMISSION FOR SAFAI KARAMCHARIS 33 32 DRAFT INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY INTERMEDIARY GUIDELINES RULES, 2018 34 33 CENTRAL ADOPTION RESOURCE AUTHORITY 35 34 ENEMY PROPERTY 36 35 FINANCIAL SCHEME FOR LABOURERS 37 36 ANNUAL CRIME IN INDIA REPORT 2018 37 37 NATIONAL STARTUP ADVISORY COUNCIL 38 38 POLITICAL PARTIES REGISTRATION TRACKING MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (PPRTMS) 39 39 CITIZENSHIP LAW 39 40 NATIONAL VOTERS’ DAY 39 41 6TH SCHEDULE AREA STATUS TO LADAKH 40 42 RIGHT TO ACCESS INTERNET - FUNDAMENTAL RIGHT 41 43 PRIVATE PROPERTY - A HUMAN RIGHT 42 44 TULU - THE EIGHTH SCHEDULE 43 45 MUTUAL LEGAL ASSISTANCE TREATY 44 46 WHAT IS A POLICE COMMISSIONER ATE SYSTEM? 44 47 ANTI-DEFECTION LAW: SUPREME COURT FOR TRIBUNAL ON LAWMAKERS' 45 DISQUALIFICATION 48 INDIAN NATIONAL COMMISSION FOR COOPERATION WITH UNESCO (INCCU) 45 49 DEMOCRACY INDEX 46 50 BHUVAN PANCHAYAT V 3.0 WEB PORTAL 47 51 NATIONAL INVESTIGATION AGENCY ACT 47 52 NATIONAL SECURITY ACT 48 53 SUSPENSION OF OPERATIONS AGREEMENT 49 54 LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL 50 55 ALL INDIA JUDICIAL SERVICE 51 56 NEW MIDDLE EAST PLAN 52 57 US-KENYA MILITARY BASE 52 58 PROTECTING POWER 53 59 CURRENCY MANIPULATOR 53 60 IRAN WILL PULL OUT OF NPT 54 61 NEIGHBOURHOOD FIRST 54 62 KALAPANI BORDER ISSUE 55 63 ASHUGANJ-AKHAURA ROAD 55 64 BENGALURU, FOUR OTHER INDIAN CITIES IN WORLD'S WORST TRAFFIC LIST 56 65 INS SUMEDHA 56 66 INDIA-PAK. TRADE FREEZE 57 67 INDIA AND MONGOLIA 58 68 INDIA AND SWEDEN 59 69 HORMUZ PEACE INITIATIVE 59 70 ROHINGYA GENOCIDE 60 71 INDIA, TUNISIA AND PAPUA NEW GUINEA 61 72 MAHATMA GANDHI CONVENTION CENTRE IN NIGER 61 73 RECIPROCATING TERRITORY –UAE 62 74 OSLO PEACE ACCORD 63 75 GANGA-VOLGA DIALOGUE OF CIVILIZATIONS 63 76 WORLD ECONOMIC FORUM 2020 63 77 UN COMMISSION ON INTERNATIONAL TRADE LAW(UNCITRAL) 64
GS PAPER – III
1 CURRENT ACCOUNT DEFICIT 65 2 WORLD'S FASTEST-GROWING CITIES 65 3 WORLD SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT SUMMIT(WSDS) 66 4 ASPIRATIONAL DISTRICT 66 5 NATIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE PLAN 66 6 OIL DEMAND GROWTH 67 7 WINGS INDIA 2020 68 8 REVAMP OF SEZ POLICY 68 9 INDIA'S ENERGY POLICIES 69 10 STATE ENERGY EFFICIENCY INDEX 2019 70 11 DEVELOPMENT SUPPORT SERVICES TO STATES (DSSS) 70 12 DEDICATED FREIGHT CORRIDOR CORPORATION OF INDIA (DFCCIL) 71 13 RBI LAUNCHES MOBILE APP MANI 71 14 UJALA SCHEME 72 15 ACTION PLAN FOR AGRI EXPORT POLICY 72 16 PRADHAN MANTRI LAGHU VYAPARI MAAN-DHAN YOJANA 73 17 HALLMARKING OF GOLD JEWELLERY 74 18 PRODUCTS UNDER 'OTHERS' CATEGORY 75 19 ADVISORY BOARD FOR BANKING AND FINANCIAL FRAUDS 76 20 SERVICE SCHEME 76 21 LEADERSHIP IN ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT(LEED) 76 22 SUFAL BANGLA SCHEME 77 23 FISCAL DEFICIT 78 24 WORLD ECONOMIC SITUATION AND PROSPECTS(WESP) 2020 78 25 GLOBAL SOCIAL MOBILITY INDEX 80 26 WORLD ECONOMIC OUTLOOK: IMF 80 27 GLOBAL INVESTMENT TREND MONITOR REPORT: UNCTAD 80 28 WORLD EMPLOYMENT AND SOCIAL OUTLOOK TRENDS 2020 (WESO) REPORT: ILO 81 29 SMART PROJECT 82 30 ZERO BUDGET NATURAL FARMING 82 31 FINANCIAL INCLUSION STRATEGY FOR 2024 83 32 INDIA-NORWAY DIALOGUE 84 33 THE RESKILLING REVOLUTION INITIATIVE AT WEF 85 34 FOREST SURVEY OF INDIA 85 35 ALIEN PLANTS’ GROWTH 86 36 ‘REEF TOXIC’ SUN CREAM 87 37 HARGILA 88 38 TIGER DEATHS 88 39 MIYAWAKI FORESTS 89 40 GLOBAL MEET ON MARINE ECOSYSTEMS 90 41 THE RARE GREAT INDIAN BUSTARD 90 42 CHILIKA LAKE 91 43 PADDLEFISH 91 44 TIGER RESERVE IN GOA 92 45 IRRAWADDY DOLPHINS 92 46 NEW WETLAND CONSERVATION RULES 93 47 'BAMBOO- A WONDER GRASS' 94 48 KAZIRANGA NATIONAL PARK 94 49 THE ISLAND DEVELOPMENT AGENCY 94 50 EASTERN GHATS 95 51 ENVIRONMENT-RELATED OFFENCES 96 52 DESMI WASTE WATER MANAGEMENT PROJECT 97 53 ESPAÑOLA GIANT TORTOISES 97 54 GLOBAL RISKS REPORT,2020 98 55 NATURE RISK RISING REPORT 99 56 HCFC 100 57 GREENPEACE REPORT 101 58 IRRIGATION AND CLIMATE CHANG 101 59 INDIA CLIMATE COLLABORATIVE (ICC) 102 60 PLATYPUS 102 61 10 MORE RAMSAR SITES 103 62 AFRICAN CHEETAH 104 63 ILLEGAL SAND MINING 104 64 INDIAN GAUR 104 65 SHIPS IN THE ARCTIC REGION 105 66 YELLOW RUST IN WHEAT 105 67 107TH INDIAN SCIENCE CONGRESS 106 68 OPTICAL TELESCOPES 106 69 SARAS MK2 107 70 ISRO’S ASTRONAUT TRAINING HUB 107 71 NSE KNOWLEDGE HUB 108 72 INDIGENOUS MOLECULAR DIAGNOSTIC TOOL 108 73 ISRO’S COMMUNICATION SATELLITE GSAT-30 108 74 ISRO’S NAVIC 109 75 DRDO YOUNG SCIENTISTS LABORATORIES 110 76 IUPAC BUREAU MEMBER 110 77 PUNE-MUMBAI HYPERLOOP 111 78 INDIAN DATA RELAY SATELLITES 111 79 GERANIUM 112 80 ARTEMIS MISSIONS 112 81 CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE IN BLOCKCHAIN TECHNOLOGY 113 82 XENOBOT 113 83 HAEMORRHAGIC SEPTICAEMIA 114 84 INDIAN RAILWAYS’ FIRST WASTE TO ENERGY PLANT 114 85 NEW SOLAR ORBITER 114 86 HYPERSONIC 115 87 MAHARASHTRA-KARNATAKA BORDER 116 88 CHIEF OF DEFENCE STAFF 116 89 OPERATION SANKALP 117 90 TEJAS LIGHT COMBAT AIRCRAFT 117 91 COAST GUARD SHIPS 118 92 HFHSD – IN 512 118 93 SAHYOG-KAIJIN 119 94 K9 VAJRA-T GUN 119 95 BLUE CORNER NOTICE 119 96 DHANUSH 120 97 OPERATION VANILLA 120 98 GOVERNMENT OWNED CONTRACTOR OPERATED MODEL 121 99 NO OBJECTION CERTIFICATE WEB PORTAL 121 100 MILAN 2020 122 101 SAMPRITI-IX 122 102 K-4 SUBMARINE-LAUNCHED BALLISTIC MISSILE 122 103 CANNOT PREVENT EARTHQUAKES, BUT WE CAN MINIMIZE THE DAMAGE: MOES 123 104 PADMA AWARDS WINNERS 123
UNIQUE IAS ACADEMY UPSC Current Affairs January – 2020 LOGOHERE
GS PAPER - 01 ART AND CULTURE - Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times.
INDIAN HISTORY CONGRESS
Context : The 80th session of the Indian History Congress(IHC) was held at Kannur, Kerala between 28th and 30th December 2019.
Indian History Congress(IHC): Indian History Congress(IHC) was founded in 1935.It is the largest association of professional historians in South Asia.
The first session of Indian History Congress(IHC) took place in Bharat Itihas Sanshodhak Mandal, Poona in 1935. The main objective of IHC is to regulate the standard of works of history produced in India promote impartial and substantive history and commit to a fair and scientific history, devoid of bias and politics. The IHC has passed significant resolutions regarding the protection of monuments of historical importance and the role the government and Archaeological Survey of India should play in their preservation. It has about 35000 members of which over 2000 delegates participate in its session every year. It has been holding its sessions very regularly from its inception and publishing its proceedings every year since 1935. Source :- The Hindu PRAKASH PARV
Context : PM extends greetings on Guru Gobind Singh Ji‘s Prakash Parv. The occasion is celebrated widely by the Sikh community and the Takht Sri Patna Sahib Gurudwara in Patna, Bihar witnesses a lot of fanfare on this occasion. Prakash Parv : Prakash Parv (also Prakash Utsav) or birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singhji is the birth anniversary of the Sikh Gurus. 2019 was the 352nd Prakash Parv of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Guru Gobind Singh was the tenth Sikh Guru, who also institutionalized the Khalsa. Source :- PIB LAI HARAOBA
Context : In Tripura, Lai Haraoba, a ritualistic festival observed by Manipuri Meitei communities since ancient times, began in Agartala
Lai Haraoba: Lai Haraoba means merry making of the Gods. It is a ritual ceremonial festival observed by the Meitei community since ancient times.
It is celebrated to please the Umang Lai, the traditional deities of Sanamahism. The festival is celebrated through oral literature, music, dance and rituals. Several Manipuri martial arts, folk music and dances are performed during the festival.
The festival is especially known for its folk song named ‗Lai Haraoba Ishei‘ which is played mainly for the Lai Haraoba festival. Source :- AIR
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BIBI KA MAQBARA Context : The marble domes of Bibi Ka Maqbara, the famous 17th century Mughal-era monument in the city, are set to get a new shine. Bibi Ka Maqbara : Bibi Ka Maqbara located in Aurangabad, Maharashtra. It is a famous 17th century Mughal-era monument in the city of Aurangabad, Maharashtra. It was commissioned by Emperor Aurangzeb in 1660 in the memory of his wife Dilras Banu Begum. The structure is known as the ‗Taj of the Deccan‘ because of its striking resemblance to the Taj Mahal. The domes, minarets and the marble screens inside are built in marble. Source :- The Hindu
ZO KUTPUI Context : The Mizoram government is organising Zo Kutpui (festival) in at least 10 states across India and
countries such as US, Myanmar and Bangladesh. Zo Kutpui Festival: The Zo Kutpui festival aims to unify and strengthen the brotherhood among various Mizo tribes living in
different parts of the world. The first edition of the festival will start in Tripura and then move to other states which have significant Mizo population. The festival will witness various cultural programmes by different Mizo tribes.
Mizo Tribe: The Mizos are tribal people that are spread between Myanmar in the east to Bangladesh in the west. In India, the Mizo population is mainly found in Manipur, Tripura and Mizoram. There are 12 major Mizo clans identified. It includes Lusei people, Lushai hills people, Chin people, Pawi-Lusei, Tlau, Khiangte, Hualngo among others.
Source :- Business Standard EPIPHANY FESTIVAL Context :
The Epiphany festival was celebrated in parts of India, such as Goa and Kerala. In Goa, the celebration is known by its Portuguese name ‗Festa dos Reis‘, and in parts of Kerala by its Syriac name ‗Denha‘. Epiphany or Three Kings‟ Day celebration : Epiphany is among the three oldest and major festival days in Christianity, the two others being Christmas and Easter. It is celebrated on January 6 by a number of Christian sects, including Roman Catholics, and on January 19 by some Eastern Orthodox churches. This festival is celebrated in Christianity to mark the visit of the Magi (meaning the Three Wise Men or Three Kings) to the Infant Jesus (Christ from his nativity until age 12). This day also commemorates the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River. Source :- Indian Express NEPAL‟S SEKE „NEAR-EXTINCT‟ Context :
Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times. Nepal Seke :
Seke means golden language. It is one of the over 100 indigenous languages of Nepal.
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It is mainly spoken in the five villages of Chuksang, Chaile, Gyakar, Tangbe and Tetang in the Upper Mustang district. The dialects from these villages differ substantially and are believed to have varying degrees of mutual intelligibility. However, there are just 700 or so Seke speakers left in the world. Of these,100 are in New York,USA, The Seke language has been retreating due to Nepali which is Nepal‘s official language and is considered to be crucial for getting educational and employment opportunities outside villages. Hence, Seke may be considered to be a definitely endangered language under UNESCO Atlas of the World‘s Languages in Danger. Further, as per the Endangered Languages Project (ELP),there are roughly 201 endangered languages in India and about 70 in Nepal.
UNESCO Atlas of the World‟s Languages in Danger: UNESCO‘s Atlas of the World‘s Languages in Danger is a tool to raise awareness about language endangerment and the need to safeguard the world‘s linguistic diversity. According to the criteria adopted by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization(UNESCO),a language becomes extinct when nobody speaks or remembers the language. The UNESCO has categorized languages on basis of endangerment as follows: Safe - Languages spoken by all generations and their intergenerational transmission is uninterrupted. Vulnerable - Languages are spoken by most children but may be restricted to certain
domains. Definitely Endangered - Languages that are no longer being learned by children as their mother tongue.
Severely Endangered - Languages are spoken by grandparents and older generations, and while the parent generation may understand it, they may not speak it with the children or among themselves. Critically Endangered - Languages of which the youngest speakers are the grandparents or older family members who may speak the language partially or infrequently Extinct - Languages of which no speakers are left.
As per UNESCO, roughly 57 percent of the world‘s estimated 6,000 languages are safe, about 10 percent are vulnerable, 10.7 percent are definitely endangered, about 9 percent are severely endangered, 9.6 percent are critically endangered and about 3.8 percent of all languages are extinct since 1950.
Endangered Languages Project(ELP): The Endangered Languages Project(ELP) is a worldwide collaboration between indigenous language organizations, linguists and industry partners to strengthen endangered languages.
The foundation of the project was launched in 2012. The project aims to foster exchange of information related to at-risk languages and accelerate endangered language research and documentation, to support communities engaged in protecting or revitalizing their languages.
Source :- Indian Express
STATUE OF UNITY
Context : The Statue of Unity has been included in the 8 wonders of Shanghai Cooperation Organization(SCO). 8 Wonders of SCO:
The Eight Wonders of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization(SCO) project embraces eight unique archeological and historical monuments of the SCO member states. 3
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These eight sites are: Statue of Unity in India Daming Palace in China Navruz Palace in Tajikistan Mughals Heritage in Pakistan
Lake Issyk-Kul in Kyrgyzstan Po-i-Kalan complex in Uzbekistan Tamgaly Gorge in Kazakhstan
Golden Ring of Russia.
Statue of Unity:
The Statue of Unity is a memorial to Sardar Vallabhai Patel.It was inaugurated on 31st October 2018 in commemoration to Sardar Patel on his 143rd birth anniversary. It is situated in the Kevadia town, Narmada district Gujarat. It has been built on the Sadhu Bet Island, on the Narmada River. It is the tallest statue in the world with a height of 182 mts.
Shanghai Cooperation Organisation(SCO): The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation(SCO) also known as the Shanghai Pact is a Eurasian
political, economic, and military organisation. It was founded in 2001 in Shanghai. The Secretariat of SCO is based in Beijing, China. The members of the SCO are China, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.
Source :- Livemint HARVEST FESTIVALS IN INDIA
Context : Harvest festivals celebrated across India on 15th January Various festivals being celebrated across the Nations:
Makar Sankranti: Celebrated in North India& Karnataka, when the Sun enters the Makar zodiac and the days begin to lengthen compared to nights.
Pongal: In South India and particularly in Tamil Nadu, it‘s the festival of Pongal which is being celebrated over 4 days at harvest time. Magha Bihu: In Assam and many parts of the North East, the festival of Magha Bihu is celebrated. It sees the first harvest of the season being offered to the gods along with prayers for peace and prosperity. Uttarayan: Gujarat celebrates it in the form of the convivial kite festival of Uttarayan. Maghi: In Punjab, Makar Sankranti is celebrated as Maghi. Bathing in a river in the early hours on Maghi is important. Saaji: In Shimla District of Himachal Pradesh, Makara Sankranti is known as Magha Saaji. Saaji is the Pahari word for Sankranti, start of the new month. Hence this day marks the start of the month of
Magha. Kicheri: The festival is known as Kicheri in Uttar Pradesh and involves ritual bathing.
Source :- The Hindu
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NAGOBA JATARA FESTIVAL Context : Nagoba Jatara festival is being celebrated by the Mesram Raj Gonds and Pardhans in Telangana Nagoba Jatara: Nagoba Jatara is a tribal festival held in Adilabad district, Telangana, India. It is the second biggest tribal carnival and celebrated by Mesaram clan of Gond tribes for 10 days. The Gusadi Dance performance by dancers from the Gond tribe is a major special attraction of the event.
Gond Tribe: Gonds are one of the largest tribal groups in the world. They mostly live in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal and Odisha. They majorly speak Gondi which is an unwritten language of the Dravidian family. The Gond staple food is two kinds of millet namely kodo and kutki. Rice is mostly consumed during festival feasts.
Source:- Indian Express GATKA MARTIAL ART
Context : Recently, the Punjab‘s martial arts form, Gatka was performed by the Sikh community on the occasion of Republic Day. Gatka Martial Art: Gatka is a traditional martial art form associated with the Sikh gurus. It imbibes sword and sticks fighting skills and self-control. Gatka is believed to have originated when the 6th Sikh Guru Hargobind adopted ‗Kirpan‘ for self- defence during the Mughal era. A style of stick fighting between two or more practitioners, Gatka is a toned-down version of the deadlier Shastar Vidya. The sharp swords of Shastar Vidya have been replaced by wooden sticks (soti) and shields (farri) in Gatka. It is considered as a battle technique. 10th Guru Gobind Singh made it compulsory for everyone to use the weapons for self-defence. It was earlier confined to gurudwaras, nagar kirtans and akharas, but now it finds presence in the sports category after the formation of the Gatka Federation of India (GFI) in 2008. Today, it is used to showcase self-defence and fighting skills and is open to people of all faiths and communities.
Other Martial Art forms in India: Kalaripayattu – Kerala
Silambam – Tamil Nadu Thang-ta – Manipur Thoda – Himachal Pradesh
Lathi Khela – Punjab and Bengal Pari-Khanda – Bihar by Rajputs Mardani Khel – Maharashtra.
Source:- The Hindu TWO MEDIEVAL MONASTERIES Context :
A study of inscriptions on clay tablets recovered from recent excavations at Moghalmari, a Buddhist monastic site of the early medieval period in West Bengal‘s Paschim Medinipur district, have confirmed the presence of two monasteries — Mugalayikaviharika and Yajñapindikamahavihara.
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Key Findings : The monasteries at Moghalmari date from the 6th century CE and were functional until the 12th century CE. The presence of two monasteries dating to the same period within a single compound is unique in eastern India. Earlier excavations had indicated the presence of two monasteries on the basis of the structural plan. During one of the later seasons of excavations by the Directorate of Archaeology and Museums,
Government of West Bengal, six tiny fragments of inscribed seals were found. Each of them contained a set of letters accompanied by the deer-dharmachakra symbols. The inscriptions are in Sanskrit and the script is a transitional phase between later north Indian Brahmi
and early Siddha Matrika. The first name Yajñapindikamahavihara, implying etymologically ‗a place of sacrificial offering‘ is of special significance. The second name on the seals, Mugalayikaviharika, bears a phonetic resemblance to
the modern name of the site, Moghalmari. Evidence from Travellers : Archaeologists and historians point out that famous Chinese traveler Xuanzang, who visited India in the
7th century CE, referred to the existence of ‗ten monasteries‘ within the limits of Tamralipta. However, he did not refer to any specific name or location. With the discovery of the site and the deciphering of the inscriptions, at least two of these monasteries are now identified. It was known from Buddhist texts that Buddhist monasteries have a definite hierarchy — Mahavihara, Vihara and Viharika — which is reflected in the inscriptions found. The study provides the only contextual epigraphical proof for the existence of a viharika (Mugalayikaviharika in this case) as early as the 6th century in this part of the subcontinent. The study of the inscribed seals suggests that the monastery was called Mugalayikaviharika. Its continuation in the modern name of the area still remains a riddle that needs more careful inspection and study. Apparently, the name Mugalayika suggests a fair connection to the modern place-name Moghalmari. The name Moghalmari is said to trace its name to a medieval battle between the Mughals and Pathans, sometime in the 16th or early 17th century. It is difficult to ascertain if the name written on the seals indeed represents an early toponym of
the modern village of Moghalmari. Source :- The Hindu NAGARDHAN EXCAVATIONS
Context : At Nagardhan near Nagpur, recent excavations have brought new clarity on the life, religious affiliations and trade practices of the Vakataka dynasty, which ruled parts of Central and South India centuries ago. Key Findings : The area surrounding the Nagardhan Fort in the village has the archaeological remains. The Nagardhan Fort was constructed during the Gond Raja period and later renovated and re-used by the Bhosales of Nagpur during the late 18th and 19th centuries. An oval-shaped sealing has been traced. It belongs to the period when Prabhavatigupta was the queen of the Vakataka dynasty. It bears her name in the Brahmi script, along with the depiction of a conch. The presence of the conch, scholars say, is a sign of the Vaishnava affiliation that the Guptas held. A copper plate issued by Queen Prabhavatigupta has also been found. It starts with a genealogy of the Guptas, mentioning the Queen‘s grandfather Samudragupta and her father Chandragupta II.
Since the Vakataka people traded with Iran and beyond through the Mediterranean Sea, scholars suggest that these sealings could have been used as an official royal permission issued from the capital city. Besides, these were used on documents that sought mandatory royal permissions. 6
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Findings on Queen Prabhavatigupta: The Vakataka rulers were known to have forged several matrimonial alliances with other dynasties of their times. One of the key alliances was with Prabhavatigupta of the mighty Gupta dynasty, which was then ruling north India. After marrying Vakataka king Rudrasena II, Prabhavatigupta enjoyed the position of Chief Queen. Scholars say Queen Prabhavatigupta was among a handful of women rulers in India to have reigned over any kingdom during ancient times. Also, there had been no evidence so far of any successor female ruler within the Vakataka dynasty, the researchers suggest.
She ruled for about 10 years until her son Pravarasena II She had a pivotal role in propagation of Vaishnava practices in the Vidarbha region of Maharashtra.
Vakataka Dynasty : It originated in the central Deccan in the mid-3rd century CE and its empire is believed to have extended from Malwa and Gujarat in the north to the Tungabhadra in the south and from the Arabian Sea in the west to the Bay of Bengal in the east. The Vakataka rulers followed the Shaiva sect of Hinduism. Animal rearing was one of the main occupations of the people. Remains of domestic animals like cattle, goat, sheep, pig, cat, horse and fowl were traced in an earlier study. The Vakataka rulers forged several matrimonial alliances with other dynasties of their times. One of the key alliances was with Prabhavatigupta of the Gupta dynasty (Vaishnavites), which was then ruling north India. Prabhavatigupta was the chief queen of the Vakataka king Rudrasena II and took over as queen after the sudden death of her husband. She ruled for about 10 years until her son Pravarasena II succeeded. Source:- Indian Express BHARAT PARV 2020 Context : Bharat Parv,2020 will be celebrated from 26th to 31st January,2020. Bharat Parv: Bharat Parv aims to generate a patriotic fervour, promote the rich cultural diversity of the country and to popularize the idea of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat. It is organized by the Ministry of Tourism in collaboration with other central Ministries. Central theme of Bharat Parv 2020 is ‗Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat‘ and ‗Celebrating 150 Years of Mahatma Gandhi. Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat:
Aim: To promote engagement amongst the people of different states/UTs so as to enhance mutual understanding and bonding between people of diverse cultures, thereby securing stronger unity and
integrity of India. The Ministry of Human Resource Development has been designated Nodal Ministry for coordination of the programme.
Source:- PIB LALA LAJPAT RAI Context : Prime Minister has paid tributes to freedom struggle Lala Lajpat Rai on his birth anniversary. Lala Lajpat Rai: Lala Lajpat Rai was born at Dhudike near Ludhiana in Punjab in 1865.He studied law at the Government College, Lahore. He was a follower of Dayanand Saraswati, the founder of the Arya Samaj. 7
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In 1881,he joined the Indian National Congress at the age of 16. His Contribution : Dayanand Anglo-Vedic School: He founded the school in 1885 in Lahore and remained a committed educationist throughout his life. Hindu Relief Movement :He founded Hindu Relief movement in 1897 to provide help to the famine - stricken people and thus preventing them falling into the clutches of the missionaries. Swadeshi movement: Lala Lajpat Rai, Tilak and Bipin Chandra Pal (called Lal-Bal-Pal) advocated the use of Swadeshi goods and mass agitation in the aftermath of the controversial Partition of Bengal in 1905 by Lord Curzon. Indian Home Rule League of America: He founded Indian Home Rule League of America in New York City in 1917.
Indian National Congress:In 1920,he was elected President of the Indian National Congress during its Special Session in Kolkata which saw the launch of Mahatma Gandhi‘s Non-cooperation Movement. Simon Commission: In 1928, he opposed the Simon Commission,a British-appointed group of
lawmakers arrived in India to study the implementation of the Government of India Act, 1919 (the Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms). Source:- PIB; The Hindu
GS PAPER - 01 HISTORY - Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the present- significant events, personalities, issues
SAVITRIBAI PHULE JAYANTI
Context : Savitribai Phule Jayanti is celebrated on 3rd January every year to honour her contribution towards society, women empowerment and education.
Savitribai Phule : Savitribai Phule was an Indian social reformer, educationalist, and poet. She played an important role in improving women‘s rights in India. She is regarded as the mother of
Indian feminism. She was born in Naigaon, Satara district of Maharashtra on January 3, 1831 and married activist and social reformer Jyotirao Phule at the age of nine years.
With her husband‘s support, Phule learned to read and write and both of them found India‘s first school for girls called Bhide Wada in Pune in 1848. The idea of educating women and the untouchables was considered to be a radical one at that time. In Maharashtra, a nationalist discourse was playing out between 1881-1920 led by Bal Gangadhar Tilak, who opposed the setting up of schools for girls and non-Brahmins citing loss of nationality. Phule started the Literacy Mission in India between 1854-55 and the Satyashodhak Samaj (Society for Truth-Seeking), through which she along with her husband wanted to initiate the practice of Satyashodhak marriage, in which no dowry was taken. She wrote poems in Marathi in which she advocated for values such as humanism, liberty, equality, brotherhood, rationalism and the importance of education among others. Her books of poems are ―Kavya Phule‖ and ―Bavan Kashi Subodh Ratnakar‖. She passed away on March 10, 1897. Source :- PIB MANILAL DOCTOR
Context : January 8 was observed as the death anniversary of Manilal Doctor the colonial-era barrister who fought for the rights of Indian-origin people in Mauritius and Fiji. An associate of Mahatma Gandhi, Doctor is known for his efforts towards helping abolish the indentured labour system that Indian immigrants in many parts of the British Empire were subjected to.
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Indentured labour system: In 1833,the British Parliament has banned slavery and the practice became illegal throughout the Empire. However, to maintain the supply of labour in their territories, colonial authorities effectively replaced slavery with the indentured labour system. The ‗indenture‘ (meaning contract) system required Indians to sign a legal agreement stating their consent to move abroad for a minimum of five years to work mainly on sugar estates. Many were lured to distant lands, such as the Caribbean, South Africa, Réunion, Mauritius, Malaysia, and Fiji where they ended up living in miserable conditions. In the mid-19th century, over 35 lakh Indians were transported to British, French and Dutch colonies around the world. The system was officially banned in 1917. Manilal Doctor helped in ending the indentured labour system :
Mauritius(1907-1911): He organised the Indian community in the Mauritius which consisted of indentured and non- indentured workers.
He founded ‗The Hindustani‘ newspaper in Mauritius, which had the motto ―Liberty of Individuals! Fraternity of Men!!! Equality of Race!!!‖ Doctor also helped establish the Arya Samaj in Mauritius. He returned to India in 1911.
Fiji (1912-1920): He emerged as the leader of the Indian community in Fiji. He started ‗The Indian Settler‘ newspaper and also helped set up the Indian Imperial Association. Source :- Indian Express GS PAPER - 01 SOCIAL ISSUES - population and associated issues
NATIONAL POPULATION REGISTER Context : The Union Home Ministry has clarified that no person needs to submit any documents during the house-
•to-•house survey for updating the National Population Register and that information provided by individuals would be accepted and recorded. More in the news :
MHA has clarified the confusion surrounding NPR by stating that families need not dig out old documents for verification during the house•-to-•house survey that will be taken up by the enumerators for updating the National Population Register.
The MHA has said that information provided by the individual would be just accepted and recorded accordingly. The MHA has issued this clarification following a report by ‗The Hindu‘ which stated the contrary.
In response to this clarification by the MHA, ‗The Hindu‘ says that its earlier report was based on points given in the NPR manual of the Ministry itself. The NPR manual clearly mentions that the existing database would be updated by verifying the details of all respondents through house-to•-house enumeration.
National Population Registry : The NPR is a register of the usual residents of the country. It contains information collected at the local (village/sub-town), subdistrict, district, state and national level under provisions of the
Citizenship Act, 1955 and the Citizenship (Registration of Citizens and Issue of National Identity Cards) Rules, 2003. Who will conduct NPR :
The process of updating NPR will be carried out under the aegis of the Registrar General and ex- Officio Census Commissioner, India. Information Collected Under NPR : The objective of the NPR is to create a comprehensive identity database of every usual resident in the
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country.
The database would contain demographic particulars such as:
Name
Relationship to head of household Father's name Mother's name
Spouse's name (if married) Sex Date of birth Marital status Place of birth Nationality (as declared) Present address of usual residence Duration of stay at present address
Permanent residential address Occupation Educational qualification
How is NPR different from census :
While the process of NPR and Census will begin simultaneously, the two databases are not same. The decennial census is the largest single source of a variety of statistical information on different characteristics of the people of India. While NPR only contains demographic information, more details are required for census like information on demography, economic activity, literacy and education, and housing and household amenities besides others. The census is the basis for reviewing the country's progress in the past decade, monitoring the ongoing schemes of the government and plan for the future. The census provides detailed and authentic information on demography, economic activity, literacy
and education, housing and household amenities, urbanisation, fertility and mortality, scheduled castes and scheduled tribes, language, religion, migration, disability besides others. The enumerators also collect data related to cultivators and agricultural labourers, their sex,
occupational classification of workers in the non-households industry, trade, business, profession or service by class of worker and sex. There will be a detailed survey on gender and literacy rate, a number of towns, slum households and their population. Information is also collected on sources of potable water, energy, irrigation, method of farming, whether a house is a concrete, thatched or others. How is NPR differ from NCR : National Population Register is a database of people living in India, citizens or not, but National Register of Citizens is a database of Indian citizens. The NRC process demands proof of citizenship
from the respondents. Those who found in want of proof may face deportation or detention in long run. But in NPR, there is no need to provide any document.
Source :- The Hindu TRANSGENDER PERSONS ACT
Context : Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment notified Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019.
Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019 : The Act intends to protect persons of transgender identity from discrimination. 10
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The Act is made enforceable against all establishments, which covers government and private entities, including all companies, firms, Co-operative societies, trusts etc. Definition of Transgender: Those whose gender does not match the gender assigned to that person at birth. Key Features : Right to Self-Identification: Person would have the right to choose to be identified as a man, woman or transgender, irrespective of sex reassignment surgery and hormonal therapy.
Acquiring Certificate: transgender persons need to go through a district magistrate and district screening committee to get certified as a transpersons Prohibition of Discrimination: No discrimination against transgender persons in accessing education, employment and healthcare
National Council for Transgender persons (NCT): It would advise the central government on related policies and legislation and also act as a centre for grievance redressal Responsibilities of Government:
Provide health facilities to transgender persons including separate HIV surveillance centres Provide, through an insurance scheme, medical expenses for sex reassignment surgery, hormonal therapy, laser therapy or any such health-related
expenses Take steps for rescue and rehabilitation, vocational training and self-employment Create transgender sensitive schemes, and promote their inclusion in cultural activities Source :- The Hindu GS PAPER - 01 SOCIAL ISSUES - Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors
and issues arising out of their design and implementation. BRU REFUGEES Context :
The Centre, the Governments of Tripura and Mizoram and representatives of Bru tribe has signed a new agreement to settle the Bru refugees in Tripura. More about the Agreement :
According to the agreement, the Bru tribals will now be settled in the state of Tripura. The Centre has also sanctioned 600-crore rupee package for the rehabilitation of the people from this community.
The Bru refugees will also get a 40 x 30 feet plot along with a fixed deposit of four lakh rupees, cash assistance of five thousand rupees per month for two years and free ration. Issue :
In Mizoram, the Bru community have been targeted by the groups that do not consider them indigenous to the state. In 1997,following ethic clashes, Brus fled from Mizoram and were accommodated in relief camps in Tripura. Since then, thousands of Bru refugees are living in the six relief camps in North Tripura.
Bru Refugees: Bru or Reang is a community indigenous to Northeast India living mostly across Assam, Mizoram and Tripura. In Tripura, they are recognised as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group.
Brus speak the Reang dialect of Bru language which is Tibeto Burmese origin and is locally referred to as Kau Bru. The Hojagiri folk dance of Reang sub tribe is well known all over the world. The most popular
festival of reang tribes is Buisu.
Source :- Indian Express
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GS PAPER - 01 SOCIETY - mechanisms, laws, institutions and Bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections. MEDICAL TERMINATION OF PREGNANCY (AMENDMENT) BILL, 2020 Context : The Union Cabinet has approved the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (Amendment) Bill, 2020. Medical Termination of Pregnancy (Amendment) Bill, 2020 : The Bill will amend the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act, 1971.
The bill will be introduced in the upcoming budget session of the Parliament, which will begin on February 1, 2020. Objective : The proposed amendments in the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Bill aim to expand women‘s access
to safe and legal abortion services on therapeutic, eugenic, social and humanitarian grounds. The amendments include the substitution of certain sub-sections, insertion of certain new clauses under some sections in the existing abortion act with a view to increase upper gestation limit for termination of
pregnancy under certain conditions and to strengthen access to comprehensive abortion care under strict conditions, without compromising service and quality of safe abortion. Key Features :
The Medical Termination of Pregnancy (Amendment) Bill, 2020 proposes requirement for an opinion from one provider for termination of pregnancy up to 20 weeks of gestation and introducing the requirement of opinion from two providers for termination of pregnancy up to 20-24 weeks of gestation. The amended bill proposes increasing the upper gestation limit from 20 to 24 weeks for special categories of women such as vulnerable women including survivors of rape, victims of incest and others such as differently-abled women and minors. Under the amendment bill, the upper gestation limit will not apply in cases of substantial foetal abnormalities diagnosed by the Medical Board. The composition, functions and other details of the Medical Board will be prescribed subsequently in Rules under the Act. Further, the name and other details of the woman whose pregnancy has been terminated shall not be revealed except to a person authorised by the law. Significance : The Medical Termination of Pregnancy Amendment bill aims to ensure the safety and well-being of
women. The proposed increase in gestation limit will ensure dignity, autonomy, confidentiality and justice for women who need to terminate their pregnancy.
Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act, 1971 It provides the legal framework for making Comprehensive Abortion care (CAC) services available in India. The Act allows women to abort foetuses up to 20-weeks-old. The law recognises ―failure of contraceptive‖ and ―unplanned pregnancy‖ as legal reasons for abortion only in the case of ―married‖ women. Between 12 and 20 weeks the grounds for abortion are limited to: Where continuance of a pregnancy would cause risk to the life/physical or mental health
of the pregnant woman Where there exists a substantial risk that if the child is born it would suffer from physical or mental abnormalities
Source:- The Hindu
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GS PAPER - 01 GEOGRAPHY - Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc., NORTHEAST MONSOON Context : The northeast, or winter, monsoon has ended on a high, with an overall surplus rainfall being recorded for the season. India witnessed a 30% surplus in total rainfall during the Northeast monsoon in 2019. Northeast (winter) monsoon :
a reference to the ―monsoon‖ usually means the southwest summer monsoon. It is the main monsoon season, which brings widespread rain across the country. For many parts of India, this is the only time they receive rain. These four months bring about 75 per cent
of India‘s annual rainfall. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) recognises October to December as the time for the northeast monsoon.
So why are these two monsoons named thus? The northeast monsoon does not have anything to do with India‘s Northeast, even though a part of the system does originate from the area above it.
Rather, it derives its name from the direction in which it travels — from the northeast to the southwest. (In fact, all winds are named for the direction from which they blow. Thus the westerlies blow from the west, and the easterlies from the east.)
Similarly, the summer monsoon (at least the Arabian Sea branch of it; there is also a branch that swerves in an anticlockwise direction in the Bay of Bengal before entering the Indian landmass and bringing rain to the eastern, northeastern and northern parts of the country) moves in exactly the opposite direction — from the southwest to the northeast. That is why it is called the southwest monsoon. When does the northeast monsoon set in? Although October, November, and December are supposed to comprise the northeast monsoon season, the rains normally set in only around October 20. The southward withdrawal takes place over a period of three to four weeks. It usually starts around the second week of September and continues till about the second week of October, bringing rain as it retreats. 2019 was unusual in that the withdrawal was completed in just eight days, beginning on October 9.
Where does it rain during the northeast monsoon season? The northeast monsoon brings rain to just five of the 36 meteorological divisions in the country — Tamil Nadu (which includes Puducherry), Kerala, Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Rayalaseema and South Interior
Karnataka. This season contributes only 11 per cent to India‘s annual rainfall of 1,187 mm, compared to about 75 per cent in the summer monsoon season (the remaining rain comes in other non-monsoon months).
Many other parts of the country, like the Gangetic plains and northern states, also receive some rain in November and December but this is not due to the northeast monsoon. It is caused mainly by the Western Disturbances, an eastward-moving rain-bearing wind system
that originates beyond Afghanistan and Iran, picking up moisture from as far as the Mediterranean Sea, even the Atlantic Ocean. In the higher reaches of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, the precipitation is often in the form of snow. Source :- Indian Express
TALL VOLCANO Context : In the Philippines, a volcano called Taal on the island of Luzon, 50 km from Manila, erupted.
Why is the Philippines prone to volcanic activity and Earthquakes? The Philippines lies along the Ring of Fire – a zone of major seismic activity. 13
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The country is situated at the boundaries of two tectonic plates — the Philippines Sea Plate and the Eurasian plate
Taal Volcano :
It is located on the island of Luzon, in the Philippines. It is classified as a ―complex‖ volcano. The volcano is currently at alert level 4, which means that a ―hazardous eruption‖ could be imminent
within a few hours to a few days. Hazardous eruptions are characterised by intense unrest, continuing seismic swarms and low- frequency earthquakes.
Complex volcano: Taal is classified as a ―complex‖ volcano by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS).
A complex volcano, also called a compound volcano, is defined as one that consists of a complex of two or more vents, or a volcano that has an associated volcanic dome, either in its crater or on its flanks. Examples include Vesuvius, besides Taal.
The Taal volcano does not rise from the ground as a distinct, singular dome but consists of multiple strato-volcanoes (volcanoes susceptible to explosive eruptions), conical hills and craters of all shapes and sizes, as per NASA‘s Earth Observatory. Taal has 47 craters and four maars (a broad shallow crater). Source :- Indian Express AUSTRALIAN METEOR CRATER
Context : Recently, A NASA scientist analyzed the age of the Yarrabubba meteor crater in Australia and found it to be 2.229 billion years old, making it now the oldest crater currently known.
Yarrabubba Asteroid Impact Crater The Yarrabubba impact occurred during the Proterozoic eon. It is located in Yarrabubba, southeast of the town of Meekatharra in Western Australia.
It‘s 200 million years older than the previously oldest known crater, which was the over 200-kilometer Vredefort Dome crater in South Africa Source:- Live Science ------
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GS – PAPER II
GS PAPER - 02 GOVERNANCE - Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.
KHILONJIA Context : The ethnic communities of Assam are opposing to include non-tribal communities in the group of Khilonjia (also known as indigenous) people of the state. Issue :
The opposition came ahead of a report to be submitted by panel enlisting the communities that qualify to be called ‗khilonjia‘ for implementing Clause 6 of the Assam Accord of 1985. Clause 6 of the Assam Accord (1985) prescribes land and constitutional rights only for the
indigenous in Assam. Currently, Khilonjias comprises of Bodo (the largest plains tribe in the northeast), Deuri, Dimasa, Rabha, Sonowal Kachari, Thengal Kachari and Tiwa.
Clause 6 of the Assam Accord of 1985 : Part of the Assam Accord that came at the culmination of a movement against immigration from Bangladesh It is one of the promises in the Assam Accord, a memorandum of settlement inked between the representatives of the All Assam Students Union, the Assam state government and the government of
India. The accord brought to an end, six years of the Assam movement, an agitation in the state against undocumented immigrants.
Clause 6 reads - ―Constitutional, legislative and administrative safeguards, as may be appropriate, shall be provided to protect, preserve and promote the cultural, social, linguistic identity and heritage of the Assamese people,‖. Clause 6 was supposed to act as a safeguard against the effect of migration between 1951 and 1971 on Assam‘s demography and the state‘s culture. Source :- The Hindu
SANTUSHT Context : Ministry of Labour has planned to launch a portal named ‗Santusht‘.
Santusht Portal : The portal aims for speedy redressal of worker as well as employer grievances and ensuring effective implementation of labour laws at the grass root level.
The portal would monitor all services provided by retirement fund body Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) and health insurance and services provider Employees State Insurance Corporation(ESIC) to formal sector workers.
The portal would also help the labour ministry to assess the performance of officials, which would be given due weight age at the time of their appraisals, transfers and postings. Hence, the portal is envisaged to ensure transparency, accountability and effective implementation of
labour laws. Source :- Economic Times SWACHH SURVEKSHAN Context : Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs has announced the results of the first (April-June) and
second (July- September) quarters of Swachh Survekshan League 2020.
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Swachh Survekshan League 2020:
Swachh Survekshan 2020 League was launched by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs in
2019.
The aim of the survey is to sustain the on-ground performance of cities along with continuous monitoring of service level performance in cleanliness. The Swachh Survekshan 2020 League is being conducted in 3 quarters namely the
April- June, July – September and October- December 2019. The performance of cities in the League 2020 is crucial to their ranking in Swachh Survekshan 2020 due to the 25% weightage of the quarterly assessments to be included in the annual survey in January 2020.
Key Highlights :
Indore from Madhya Pradesh has been ranked first in both quarters. Bhopal got second and Surat in Gujarat third spot in the first Quarter.
In the second quarter, Rajkot in Gujarat was at the 2nd spot while Navi Mumbai was at third. Jamshedpur in Jharkhand has been ranked first in both quarters. New Delhi Municipal Council and Khargone in Madhya Pradesh got the second and third spot in the first
quarter in this category. In the second quarter, Chandrapur in Maharashtra and Khargone got the second and third spot respectively.
Source :- The Hindu MODEL VILLAGE SCHEME Context : According to the Ministry of Rural Development, only 252 Members of Parliament (MPs) have adopted gram panchayats under phase-4 of Saansad Adarsh Gram Yojana (SAGY). Concern : Since the launch of the scheme, only 1,753 gram panchayats have been selected across four phases, way below the expected figure. In Phase-1 of SAGY, 703 MPs adopted gram panchayats but that number went down to 497 in Phase-2 and 301 in Phase-3, showing a gradual decline in subsequent phases. Way Forward : The vision behind the evolution of SAGY villages was to create model villages by ensuring convergence and dovetailing of schemes and its proper implementation on priority basis. However, the seriousness required to achieve the motto is lacking. MPs need to be more responsible towards the scheme.
At the same time, the Ministry of Rural Development should ensure that the SAGY villages are dealt with the vision envisaged under the scheme and are not left behind.
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Saansad Adarsh Gram Yojana : The scheme was launched by the Prime Minister of India on 11th October, 2014 on the birth anniversary of Jai Prakash Narayan. Goal : Under the Yojana, Members of Parliament (MPs) are responsible for developing the socio-economic and physical infrastructure of three villages each by 2019, and a total of eight villages each by 2024. The first Adarsh Gram (Model Village) was to be developed by 2016, and two more by 2019. From 2019 to 2024, five more Adarsh Grams must be developed by each MP, one each year. This implies that a total of 6,433 Adarsh Grams, of the 2,65,000 gram panchayats, will be created by 2024. Process : Gram Panchayat: The basic unit for development.
Lok Sabha MP: chooses a Gram Panchayat from within his/her constituency. Rajya Sabha MP: chooses Gram Panchayat from the rural area of a district of his/her choice in the State from which he/she is elected.
Nominated MPs: choose a Gram Panchayat from the rural area of any district in the country.
Source :- The Hindu INDIAN RAILWAY MANAGEMENT SERVICES
Context : The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) will be conducting an exclusive examination for recruitment of officers to handle specialised services in the newly created Indian Railway Management
Service (IRMS) following unification of eight different railway services. It will happen in next recruitment circle of 2021. Present System :
The Indian Railways is governed by a pool of officers, among whom engineers are recruited through the Indian Engineering Services Examination and civil servants through the Civil Services Examination. The engineers are in five technical service cadres — Indian Railway Service of Engineers (IRSE), Indian Railway Service of Mechanical Engineers (IRSME), Indian Railway Service of Electrical Engineers (IRSEE), Indian Railway Service of Signal Engineers (IRSSE) and the Indian Railway Stores Service (IRSS). The Civil Servants are in the Indian Railway Traffic Service (IRTS), Indian Railway Accounts Service (IRAS) and Indian Railway Personnel Service (IRPS). Need of Reform and various committee recommendations: The government wants to end inter-departmental rivalries, which it says have been hindering growth for decades. Several committees including the Bibek Debroy Committee in 2015 have noted that ―departmentalism‖ is a major problem in the system. Most committees have said the merger of the services in some form would be a solution.
The Debroy panel had recommended the merging of the eight services into two — the Indian Railway Technical Service (IRTechS) comprising five engineering services (IRSE, IRSSE, IRSEE, IRSME and IRSS), and the Indian Railway Logistics Service (IRLogS), comprising non-technical services (IRAS,
IRPS and IRTS). The government has now collapsed all services into one. The government has followed the Prakash Tandon Committee‘s recommendations of 1994 as it was apprehensive that even if there are two services, there would be infighting.
What will the change in the reform : The Chairman along with four members responsible for Infrastructure, Operations and Business development, Rolling stock and Finance respectively will form the Railway Board.
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The Chairman shall be the cadre controlling officer responsible for Human Resources (HR) with assistance from a DG (HR). Three apex level posts shall be surrendered from Railway Board and all its remaining posts shall be open to all officers regardless of the service to which they belonged. The Board will also have some independent non-executive members, who will be highly distinguished professionals with deep knowledge and 30 years of experience including at the top levels in industry, finance, economics and management fields. Concern :
People with a specific skill set might be pushed to perform other work about which there is no clarity. The merger is unscientific and against established norms, because it proposes to merge two fundamentally dissimilar entities, with multiple disparities.
There is growing uncertainty over promotions and career progression of the officers who are currently employed in Railways. There could be misunderstanding between civil servants and engineers in Railways.
The civil servants come from all walks of life after clearing the Civil Services Examination. The engineers usually sit for the Engineering Services Examination right after getting an engineering degree. Various studies have noted that engineers join the Railways around the age of
22-23, while the civil servants join when they are around 26, barring exceptions. The civil servants are saying that if all present cadres are merged and even higher departmental posts become open to all, engineers, being in larger numbers and of a certain age profile, may end up occupying most posts, if not all. Source :- The Hindu ; Business Standard „PURVODAYA‟ : ACCELERATED DEVELOPMENT OF EASTERN INDIA THROUGH AN INTEGRATED STEEL HUB Context :
Ministry of steel in partnership with CII and JPC is organising the launch of Purvodaya-Accelerated Development of Eastern Region through an Integrated Steel hub. Background :
The Eastern region of India though extremely rich in resources lags behind other states in terms of development. Hence, the Integrated Steel Hub was launched in Eastern states of India as it collectively hold ~80% of
the country‘s iron ore, ~100% of coking coal and significant portion of chromite, bauxite and dolomite reserves. Integrated Steel Hub:
The initiative aims at developing the eastern states through an integrated steel hub. The proposed Integrated Steel Hub would encompass the states of Odisha, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, West Bengal and Northern Andhra Pradesh. The hub would enable swift capacity addition and improve overall competitiveness of steel producers both in terms of cost and quality. In addition to increased steel capacity, this hub would also help enhance best-in-class value addition capabilities. Components : Capacity addition through easing the setup of Greenfield steel plants Development of steel clusters near integrated steel plants as well as demand centres Transformation of logistics and utilities infrastructure which would change the socio-economic landscape in the East. Significance : It would lead to socio-economic development in the Eastern region.
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It helps in significant employment opportunities across the entire value chain creating over 2.5 Million jobs in the region. It would also spur development in other manufacturing industries across sectors. Source :- PIB PARIKSHA PE CHARCHA 2020
Context : The Prime Minister will interact with a cross-section of Students, Teachers and Parents at ―Pariksha Pe Charcha 2020‖.
Pariksha Pe Charcha 2020: This is an interaction programme of the Prime Minister with a cross-section of students and teachers from India and abroad.
The idea behind the programme is to beat exam stress. The first such event was held in 2018. 2020 is the third such interaction programme. The event is held in an auditorium in New Delhi.
In connection with the event, the HRD Ministry conducted an essay competition for students. Students were to send their responses online. They were also asked to send questions for the event as well. The winners of this contest will take part in the interaction programme. Source :- PIB PRAGATI Context : PM will chair the 32nd interaction through PRAGATI. PRAGATI:
Prime Minister had launched the multi-purpose and multi-modal governance platform PRAGATI on 25th March 2015. PRAGATI is an integrating and interactive platform, aimed at addressing the common man‘s grievances.
PRAGATI also helps in simultaneously monitoring and reviewing important programmes and projects of the Government of India, as well as projects flagged by various State governments. PRAGATI stands for ‗Pro Active Governance and Timely Implementation‘.
Source:- PIB PRADHAN MANTRI RASHTRIYA BAL PURASKAR Context : President Ram Nath Kovind presented the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2020 to children under various categories. Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar: Any child with exceptional achievement in the fields of innovation, scholastic achievements, social service, arts & culture, sports, and bravery can apply for the award. Also, any person who knows about a meritorious achievement by a child can recommend this child for the award. A high-level committee selects the winners after careful consideration of each application. The scheme is under the Ministry of Women and Child Development. This award scheme gives awards in two categories every year: Bal Shakti Puraskar (to individuals) Bal Kalyan Puraskar (for institutions/individuals working for children) Bal Shakti Puraskar: This award is given to children in the fields of innovation, social service, scholastic, sports, art and culture and bravery. It carries a medal, a cash prize of Rs. 1 lakh, a certificate and a citation. It was formerly known as ―National Child Award for Exceptional Achievement‖.
It was instituted in 1996 and renamed to ―Bal Shakti Puraskar‖ in 2018.
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Bal Kalyan Puraskar: This award was instituted in 1979 as ―National Child Welfare Awards‖. It was renamed in 2018 to ―Bal Kalyan Puraskar‖. This is given to individuals and/or organisations working in the field of child development, child protection and child welfare.
This award is given in two categories – Individual and Institution. Three awards are given in each of these two categories along with cash prizes. Source:- PIB SUB -CATEGORIZATION OF OBC Context : The Union Cabinet has approved the extension of the term of the Commission to examine the issue of Sub-categorization of Other Backward Classes, by six months that is up to July 2020. More in the news : The Communities in the existing list of OBCs which have not been able to get any major benefit of the scheme of reservation for OBCs for appointment in Central Government posts & for admission in Central Government Educational Institutions are expected to be benefitted upon implementation of the recommendations of the Commission. The Commission is likely to make recommendations for benefit of such marginalized communities in the Central List of OBCs.
All persons belonging to the castes/communities which are included in the Central List of SEBCs but which have not been able to get any major benefit of the existing scheme of reservation for OBCs in Central Government posts & for admission in Central Government Educational Institutions would be
benefitted. Background : The Commission was constituted under Article 340 of the Constitution with the approval of the President
in October 2017. Article 340 of the Indian Constitution lays down conditions for the appointment of a Commission to investigate the conditions of the backward classes. The President may by order appoint a Commission consisting of such persons as he thinks fit to investigate the conditions of socially and educationally backward classes within the territory of India. Chaired by Justice (Retd.) G Rohini, the Commission has interacted with all the States/UTs which have subcategorized OBCs, and the State Backward Classes Commissions. Source:- PIB
TELE-LAW Context : The Department of Justice, Government of India celebrated 1,50,000 registrations for advice on Tele-
Law. Tele - Law : It is an initiative to provide pre-litigation advice to needy people.
The initiative was launched in 2017 with an aim to provide legal advice in the villages through Common Service Centres (CSCs). It is aimed at facilitating the delivery of legal advice through an expert panel of lawyers.
The Department has partnered with NASLA and CSC eGovernance Service Ltd for offering this service to poor and marginalised people. The project connects lawyers with clients through video-conferencing/telephone/chat facilities by the Para-Legal Volunteers stationed at CSCs. A dedicated website on Tele-Law is maintained by the Department of Justice which has been designed with support from CSC eGovernance and has been translated into 22 languages. A Tele-Law mobile application is available for the PLVs to pre-register Tele-Law cases.
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A Tele-Law Dashboard is also developed with decentralized features for login and registration of cases, and for viewing the status of cases added for panel lawyers, PLVs, etc. Source :- PIB
GS PAPER - 02 GOVERNANCE - Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources.
FMD & BRUCELLOSIS IN 2019
Context : Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying is implementing several programmes in the fisheries, animal husbandry and dairy sector.
National Animal Disease Control Programme for FMD and Brucellosis: National Animal Disease Control Programme for Foot and Mouth Disease and Brucellosis is a 100% centrally funded programme.
It aims to control Foot and Mouth Disease and Brucellosis by 2025 with vaccination and eventual eradication by 2030. Nationwide Artificial Insemination Programme(NAIP): The Nationwide Artificial Insemination Programme was launched in September,2019 by the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying. It is a campaign mode genetic upgradation program covering all breeds of bovines to enhance the milk production using low cost breeding technology for improving genetic merit of milch animals with high quality seed. The aim of the program is to inseminate over 1 crore bovines in 6 months & ear-tag them with ‗PashuAadhaar‘ which is a unique identification provided to the animals so as to enable the Government to identify and track the animals. Under NAIP, more than 11 lakhs Artificial Insemination(AI) has been done as on 31st December,2019. Quality Milk Programme: The Quality Milk Programme was launched in the year 2019 by Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry
& Dairying. The programme aims to achieve Global(Codex) standards for domestic consumption of milk and ensuring traceability & increasing share of milk and milk products in world exports.
Source :- PIB CYBER SAFE WOMEN Context : Maharashtra Government has launched a ‗Cyber Safe Women‘ initiative. „Cyber Safe Women‟ initiative: The initiative aims to spread awareness against atrocities committed against children and women. The initiative will also create awareness about laws on cybercrime. The campaign is to be implemented all over the state by the State Government in collaboration with state police, public relations department and cyber cell. It will also create awareness against crimes such as bank frauds, child pornography, photo shuffling, online gaming, cyber defamation information and false information sites.
Steps taken by central Government to Deal with Cyber Crime: Cyber Crime Prevention against women and children Scheme:
Thescheme was launched in 2019. The main objective of the Scheme is to have an effective mechanism to handle cyber crimes against women and children in the country. The features of the scheme include online cybercrime reporting platform, research and development, and cybercrime awareness activities.
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Cyber Crime reporting portal:
It enables complainants to report complaints pertaining to Child Pornography or sexually
explicit content.
Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre(I4C): It handle issues related to cybercrime in the country in a comprehensive and coordinated manner.
Cyber Dost: Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has launched Twitter account named @CyberDost. It aims to spread awareness about cybercrimes and normal precautions to be taken for
prevention. Indian Computer Emergency Response Team(CERT-In): It is an office within the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology. It is the nodal agency to deal with cyber security threats like hacking and phishing.
Source :- AIR WORLD BRAILLE DAY Context : All India Radio News and its regional units in Pune and Nagpur have observed World Braille Day in an innovative way by broadcasting news read by visually impaired students and officers. The news was scripted in Braille and read live. World Braille Day : January 4th is celebrated as World Braille Day in order to mark the birth anniversary of Louis Braille.
The declaration to celebrate the day was given by the UN in 2018. Louis Braille is credited with inventing the Braille language. Braille is a tactile writing system used by people who are visually impaired.
The World Braille Day spreads awareness about Braille script and other accessible forms of communication, as most of the public places such as hospitals fail to provide their material in Braille. Despite 2.2 billion people with visual impairment in the world, most of the schools do not offer classes in
Braille and a lot of countries do not even recognize this as a part of their educational curriculum. The 2006 Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities considers Braille essential for education.
Hence, the celebration of the World Braille Day is intended to spread awareness amongst people regarding the necessity and importance of including the language at a more global level. Source :- PIB BURDEN OF MALNUTRITION Context : India has addressed the problem but more needs to be done Issue :
Reports of National Health & Family Survey, United Nations International Children‘s Emergency Fund, and WHO have highlighted that rates of malnutrition among adolescent girls, pregnant and lactating women, and children are alarmingly high in India. There is ample evidence to show the ill consequences of poor nutrition practices on individuals, families,
society and the country at large. Despite the evidence, there was very little action taken to acknowledge, understand and act on the challenge of under nutrition in India. Programmes and policy in India:
India‘s efforts in tackling malnutrition have received a new impetus. A range of programmes and policies have been launched. POSHAN Abhiyaan is primarily against child under nutrition. But given the interdependence of a child‘s
nutritional status on the maternal health condition, it also strives to work towards improving the nutritional status of adolescent girls and mothers. 22
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India‟s National Nutrition Mission has brought focus onto the issue of malnutrition. Targets have been set and all stakeholders have been involved in the fight against malnutrition. National and State governments have mobilized all their resources, district administrators have been involved given the fact that they work at the grassroots level, the private sector has mobilized its own resources, while the civil society has continued to push for accountability and action. Anaemia Mukt Bharat focusses on the issue of Anaemia. Given the comparatively poor nutritional status of women and their special health needs, the programme envisages major interventions to reduce anaemia in India.
Eat Right India movement focusses on improving nutritional literacy in India. It aims to promote healthy eating in India given the importance of food on the health profile of an individual. Concern :
Despite the laudable progress made against malnutrition, there is still scope for further improvements. India‘s National Family Health Survey (NFHS) shows that there has been a decline in child malnutrition numbers in the country, but various studies show that the rate of decline is very slow.
Source :- The Hindu ANTARRASHTRIYA YOGA DIWAS MEDIA SAMMAN Context : The first Antarrashtriya Yoga Diwas Media Samman to be conferred to 30 media houses. Antarrashtriya Yoga Diwas Media Samman: Acknowledging the positive role and responsibility of the media in disseminating the outreach of Yoga within India and abroad, the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting had instituted the first Antarashtriya Yoga Diwas Media Samman (AYDMS) in June 2019 to mark the contribution of the media in spreading the message of Yoga. 30 awards would be given in three categories. The award will comprise a special medal/plaque/trophy and a citation.
International Day of Yoga : International Day of Yoga is observed on 21st June every year to spread awareness about the
importance and effects of yoga on the health of the people. The word 'yoga' is derived from Sanskrit which means to join or to unite. International Day of Yoga is also called World Yoga Day. For the first time it was celebrated on 21 June 2015. This initiative was taken by the Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi by giving an impactful speech related to yoga on 27 September 2014 in the United Nations General Assembly and for this reason, on 21 June, it was declared as "International Yoga Day". The proposal to celebrate the International Yoga Day on 21 June in the United States was approved by 193 members on 11 December 2014.
Source :- PIB UNDER -5 GIRLS FACE HIGH MORALITY IN INDIA: UNICEF Context : Recently, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) released the ‗Levels and Trends in Child Mortality‘ report. According to it, unlike global trends, India‘s under-5 mortality of girls exceeded that of boys in 2018. Key Highlights : Countries primarily located in Southern Asia and Western Asia have a significantly higher risk of girls dying before age 5.
According to the report, half of all under-5 deaths in 2018 occurred in five countries: India, Nigeria, Pakistan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Ethiopia. India and Nigeria alone account for about a third.
Despite the tremendous progress in child survival made over the past two decades, one child or young adolescent died every five seconds in 2018. 23
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The burden of child mortality is determined both by the mortality rate (the proportion of children who die) and by the estimated population of any given State (total number of annual births). Current trends predict that close to 10 million 5 to 14 year olds and 52 million children under 5 years of age, will die between 2019 and 2030. Almost half of these under-5 deaths will be newborns. India Specific Findings :
The majority of child mortality cases in India are attributable to deaths during the neonatal period. The major causes of neonatal mortality are preterm birth, intrapartum related events and neonatal infection. In the post-neonatal period, the major direct causes of death are diarrhoea and pneumonia. India‘s neonatal mortality rate is 23 per 1,000 live births.
According to India‘s 2017 Sample Registration System (SRS), the States with the highest burden of neonatal mortality are Madhya Pradesh, Odisha and Uttar Pradesh, with 32, 33 and 30 neonatal deaths per 1,000 live births, respectively.
Jharkhand, Bihar and Uttarakhand showed the largest gender gaps in under-5 mortality. Uttar Pradesh is the state with the highest number of estimated newborn deaths in India, both because of the high neonatal mortality rate and because of the large number of births that occur
every year in the State. Source :- The Hindu INTEGRATED ROAD ACCIDENT DATABASE Context : Central Government has launched a central accident database called Integrated Road Accident Database(IRAD). Need : According to the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways data, road accidents in India has killed around
1.5 lakh people every year between 2015 and 2017. This works out to a daily average of 400 or more deaths in each of the three years. Among states, Uttar Pradesh has the highest number of deaths in road accidents in each of the three years
followed by Tamil Nadu. Integrated Road Accident Database(IRAD) : The Integrated Road Accident Database(IRAD) has been developed by the Indian Institute of
Technology-Madras(IIT-M) and will be implemented by the National Informatics Centre(NIC). The database will help in analysing causes of road crashes and in devising safety interventions to reduce such accidents in the country.
The system will be first piloted in the six States with highest fatalities from road crashes namely Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh. 24
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The IRAD will then be improved on the basis of the learning from the trial following which it will be rolled out across the country. Working : The IRAD mobile application will enable police personnel to enter details about a road accident, along with photos and videos, following which a unique ID will be created for the incident. Subsequently, an engineer from the Public Works Department or the local body will receive an alert on his mobile device. He or she will then visit the accident site, examine it, and feed the required details, such as the road design.
Data thus collected will be analysed by a team at IIT-M, which will then suggest if corrective measures in road design need to be taken. Road users will also be able to upload data on road accidents on a separate mobile application, which is
expected to go live from 1st April 2020. Source :- The Hindu GLOBAL HEALTH CHALLENGES FOR 2020 Context : The World Health Organization(WHO) has released a list of 13 urgent global health challenges for 2020. Key Highlights : Delivering healthcare in conflict-ridden areas has remained one of the biggest challenges just not for the WHO but the global health fraternity. The shortage of healthcare workers has been flagged as a major concern. ―Chronic under-investment in the education and employment of health workers, coupled with a failure to ensure decent pay, has led to health worker shortages all over the world,‖ It notes that the world will need 18 million additional health workers by 2030, primarily in low- and middle-income countries, including nine million nurses and midwives.
More than a million adolescents aged 10-19 years die every year due to road injury, HIV, suicide, lower respiratory infections, and interpersonal violence. An interesting trend the report sees emerging is the rise in misinformation related to health in social
media, which has directly or indirectly decreased the trust of people in health institutions, and their messages. WHO‟s 13 Global health challenges:
Climate Crisis Delivering Health in Conflict and Crisis Healthcare Equality
Expanding Access to Medicines Infectious Diseases Preparing for Epidemics
Dangerous Products like unsafe food, and unhealthy diets Investing in People Who Defend Our Health Keeping Teens Safe as more than one million adolescents aged 10 to 19 years die every year
Earning Public Trust Harnessing New Technologies such as genome editing and artificial intelligence. Rise of Antimicrobial Resistance
Clean Water, Sanitation, Hygiene as about one in four health facilities globally lack basic water, sanitation, and hygiene(WASH) services. Key Recommendations :
According to the report, Emerging technologies such as genome editing, synthetic biology and artificial intelligence for preventing, diagnosing and treating diseases might be a ‗tightrope walk‘.
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These can solve many problems, but also raise new questions and challenges for monitoring and regulation, it continues. ―Without a deeper understanding of their ethical and social implications, these new technologies, which include the capacity to create new organisms, could harm the people they are intended to help,‖ it warns. Source :- Down To Earth
ANNUAL STATUS OF EDUCATION REPORT Context : NGO Pratham released the Annual Status of Education Report (ASER 2018) Key Findings : ASER Report 2019 argues that a focus on cognitive skills rather than subject learning in the early years can make a big difference to basic literacy and numeracy abilities. Cognitive skills of children : Tests included sorting images by colour and size, recognising patterns, fitting together a four- piece animal puzzle — as well as simple literacy and numeracy tests. However, of those children who could correctly do all three cognitive tasks, 52% could read words, and 63% could solve the addition problem. ASER data shows that children‘s performance on tasks requiring cognitive skills is strongly related to their ability to do early language and numeracy tasks. This suggests that focussing on play-based activities that build memory, reasoning and problem-
solving abilities is more productive than an early focus on content knowledge. Enrolment: Since 2007, the enrolment of children for the age group 6 to 14 has been above 95%.
1% of children in the 15-16 age group are not in school. Reading and early childhood education : Only 16% of children in Class 1 can read the text at the prescribed level, while almost 40%
cannot even recognise letters. Early childhood education has the potential to be the ―greatest and most powerful equaliser‖. Global research shows that 90% of brain growth occurs by age 5, meaning that the quality of early childhood education has a crucial impact on the development and long-term schooling of a child. Private schools ahead : Of 6 year olds in Class 1, nearly 42% of those in private schools could read words in comparison to only 19% from government schools. This gap is further exacerbated by a gender divide. More than a quarter of Class 1 students in government schools are only 4 or 5 years old, younger than the recommended age. These younger children struggle more than others in all skills.
At the same time, 36% in Class 1 are older than the Right To Education (RTE) Act (2009) - mandated age of 6. State-wise Disparity:
In Uttar Pradesh, over 60% of Class 3 children cannot recognize letters or read words whereas in Himachal Pradesh over 70% of children are either at grade-level or only close behind. Key recommendations : Strengthening and expansion of the existing network of Anganwadi Centres Age of students play an important role in the development of language, numeracy, social and emotional learning Enrolling students in primary grades at right age important for the overall development Age group between 4 to 8 years seen as continuous progressive stages, so curriculum development should be done in accordance with it. Source:- The Hindu
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CENTRAL DRUG STANDARD CONTROLL ORGANISATION Context : India‘s top drug regulatory authority has flagged 47 batches of medicines for failing quality tests in December Issue : The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) this month labelled specific batches of these medicines to be ―not of standard quality‖.
Of the 1,336 samples tested, 1,286 were declared of standard quality, 49 ―not of standard quality‘‘ and one The drugs ―failed‖ the quality test because of the presence of foreign matter, description, particulate matter, extractable volume, sterility, disintegration, dissolution and other parameters.
Such defects may arise because of inadequate pre-formulation development studies, lack of in-process controls exercised by the manufacturer or unsuitable conditions under which drugs are stored or transported.
Spurious or imitation drug products are formulations manufactured concealing the true identity of the product and made to resemble another popular brand drug, to deceive the buyer. The product may or may not contain active ingredients.
Source :- The Hindu
THE PULSE POLIO PROGRAMME Context :
Rashtrapati Bhavan became the site of a polio vaccination drive, to mark the beginning of this year‘s Pulse Polio Programme. Polio or poliomyelitis :
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines polio or poliomyelitis as ―a highly infectious viral disease, which mainly affects young children. Transmission : Person-to-person, spread mainly through the faecal-oral route or, less frequently, by a common vehicle (e.g. contaminated water or food) and multiplies in the intestine Symptoms : fever, fatigue, headache, vomiting, stiffness in the neck, and pain in the limbs. In a small proportion of cases, the disease causes paralysis, which is often permanent. There is no cure for polio, it can only be prevented by immunization.‖ According to the Ministry of Health, the last polio case in the country was reported from Howrah district of West Bengal in January 2011. The WHO on February 24, 2012, removed India from the list of
countries with active endemic wild polio virus transmission. Two years later, the South-East Asia Region of the WHO, of which India is a part, was certified as polio- free.
Pulse Polio Programme : India had launched the Pulse Polio immunisation programme in 1995, after a resolution for a global initiative of polio eradication was adopted by the World Health Assembly (WHA) in 1988.
The children in the age group of 0-5 years are administered polio drops during national and sub-national immunisation rounds (in high-risk areas) every year. Under the programme,all states and Union Territories have developed Rapid Response Teams (RRT) to
respond to any polio outbreak in the country. Emergency Preparedness and Response Plans(EPRP) have also been developed by states indicating steps to be undertaken in case of detection of a polio case.
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Why is India still running the programme? To prevent the virus from coming to India, the government has since March 2014 made the Oral Polio Vaccination(OPV) mandatory for those travelling between India and polio-affected countries such as Afghanistan, Nigeria, Pakistan, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, Syria and Cameroon. Source:- Indian Express
NISHTHA Context : Union Minister of Human Resource Development inaugurated NISHTHA (National Initiative for School
Heads‘ and Teachers‘ Holistic Advancement). NISHTHA : NISHTHA (National Initiative for School Heads‘ and Teachers‘ Holistic Advancement), a two day orientation workshop for the teachers of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir at SKICC, Srinagar. NISHTHA is a capacity building programme for ―Improving Quality of School Education through Integrated Teacher Training―. It aims to build competencies among all the teachers and school principals at the elementary stage. The basic objective of this massive training programme is to motivate and equip teachers to encourage and foster critical thinking in students. The initiative is first of its kind wherein standardized training modules are developed at national level for all States and UTs. It is also the world‘s largest teachers‘ training programme of its kind. NISHTHA is a benchmark programme that will raise the standards of education throughout the country. It will prove to be helpful in inculcating creativity among children and stimulate their imagination as well as physical and mental wellbeing. It has already been launched in 20 states of the country and around 21000 e-resource persons have been trained so far. The main objective of the initiative is to help the overall development of students as better citizens. The art modules included in the programme instil cooperation and spirit of unity with responsibility. Source:- PIB INTEGRATED CHILD DEVELOPMENT SCHEME
Context : NITI Aayog will develop a draft policy to revamp the government‘s Integrated Child Development Scheme (ICDS) in urban areas.
ICDS :
Launched in 1975, the scheme is implemented by the Ministry of Women and Child Development. ICDS provides for Anganwadis or day-care centres that deliver a package of six services for the children, including supplementary nutrition, pre-school non-formal education, nutrition and health education, immunization, health check-up and referral services to hospitals. Objective : Improvement in the health and nutritional status of children 0–6 years and pregnant and lactating mothers. Reduction in the incidence of their mortality and school drop out Psychological, physical and social development of the child. Enhancement of the maternal education
More in the news : Urban areas are likely to receive a renewed focus under the government‘s ICDS programme. In line with this proposal, NITI Aayog will prepare a draft working paper, which once approved would be
circulated to different ministries for consultations.
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The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the Ministry of Women and Child Development, the Ministry of Urban Housing and Affairs and the Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation would be involved in the consultation process. Need to revamp : The first-ever pan-India survey on the nutrition status of children provides useful insights with respect to the urban areas. The survey has brought to light, the fact that malnutrition among children in urban India is characterized by relatively poor levels of breastfeeding as mothers have to travel long distances
for work. The survey also found a higher prevalence of obesity because of relative prosperity and lifestyle patterns, along with iron and Vitamin D deficiency.
Given that urban areas are characterized by higher population density, transportation challenges, and migration issues, it may not be possible for a community worker to keep in contact with the beneficiaries, unlike in rural settings. Concern : Urban areas have far fewer Anganwadis as compared to rural areas. According to government data from 2018, Anganwadis of urban areas constitute only 1.38 lakh out of the total 14 lakh Anganwadis across the country. Health and ICDS models that work in rural areas may not work in urban areas because of the different characteristics of the two settings. Way forward: The government‘s efforts in improving service delivery under the ICDS programme must involve the aspect of improving infrastructure and safety in the Anganwadi centres of the urban areas. Source:- The Hindu CORONAVIRUS
Context : Recently, the Lancet published a study titled ―Clinical features of patients infected with 2019 novel corona virus in Wuhan, China‖.
More about the news : The study highlighted the high mortality due to the 2019 novel corona virus (2019-nCoV infection) which caused clusters of severe respiratory illness similar to severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) corona virus. It also pointed out that there are major gaps in the knowledge of the origin, epidemiology, duration of human transmission and clinical spectrum of the disease. The study highlights : Most of the infected patients were men. Less than half had underlying diseases (diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular ailments). 66% of patients had been exposed to Huanan seafood market. Corona virus :
Corona viruses (CoV) are a large family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV).
Corona viruses are zoonotic, meaning they are transmitted between animals and people. These can affect humans as well as mammals including pigs, cattle, cats, dogs, martens, camels, hedgehogs and some birds.
Symptoms : Common signs of infection include respiratory symptoms, fever, cough, shortness of breath and breathing difficulties. In more severe cases, infection can cause pneumonia, severe acute respiratory syndrome,
kidney failure and even death.
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Transmission : The air by coughing and sneezing. close personal contact, such as touching or shaking hands. touching an object or surface with the virus on it, then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes before washing your hands. rarely, fecal contamination. Source:- The Hindu NATIONAL COMMISSION FOR HOMOEOPATHY BILL, 2019
Context : The Union Cabinet, has given its approval to the official amendments in the National Commission for Homoeopathy Bill, 2019 .
National Commission for Homoeopathy Bill 2019 : The Bill amends the Homoeopathy Central Council (HCC) Act, 1973. The amendments intend to ensure necessary regulatory reforms in the field of Homoeopathy education.
They will also enable transparency and accountability for protecting the interests of the general public. The bill seeks the establishment of the National Commission for Homoeopathy, which will replace the current regulatory body for homoeopathy, the Homoeopathy Central Council.
The Commission will promote the availability of affordable healthcare services in all parts of the country. Background : The Homoeopathy Central Council (HCC) Act, 1973 was enacted for: The constitution of a Central Council of Homoeopathy for the regulation of education and practice of Homoeopathy. The maintenance of a Central Register of Homoeopathy and for matters connected therewith. The broad functions, constitution and regulation-making powers of the Council are identical to those of the Medical Council of India. While the Act provides a solid foundation for the growth of medical education and practice in Homoeopathy, various bottlenecks in the functioning of the Council have been experienced, which has resulted in serious detrimental effects on medical education as well as delivery of quality Homoeopathy healthcare services. Source:- PIB NATI ONAL COMMISSION FOR INDIAN SYSTEM OF MEDICINE BILL,2019 Context: Union Cabinet has approved e National Commission for Indian System of Medicine(NCIM) Bill,2019. National Commission for Indian System of Medicine(NCIM) Bill,2019: National Commission for Indian System of Medicine(NCIM): The commission will consist of members appointed by the central government. They will have a maximum term of four years. The main objective of the commission will be to promote equity by ensuring an adequate supply of quality medical professionals and enforce high ethical standards in all aspects of medical services in Indian System of Medicine. Autonomous Boards: The Bill sets up certain autonomous boards under the supervision of the NCISM.
These boards are: Board of Ayurveda and the Board of Unani, Siddha and Sowa-Rigpa Medical Assessment and Rating Board for Indian System of Medicine
Ethics and Medical Registration Board. Advisory Council for Indian System of Medicine: The central government will constitute an Advisory Council for Indian System of Medicine. The Council will be the primary platform through which the states/union territories can put forth their views and concerns before the NCISM. 30
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Entrance examinations: There will be a uniform National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for admission to under-graduate education in each of the disciplines of the Indian System of Medicine in all medical institutions. Source:- PIB
GS PAPER- 02 GOVERNANCE - mechanisms, laws, institutions and Bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections. ME TOO CAMPAIGN Context : The Group of Ministers (GoM) headed by Home Minister which was constituted to strengthen the legal framework to prevent sexual harassment at the workplace has finalised its recommendations. Background : The Group of Ministers (GoM) was formed in the backdrop of the #MeToo movement. MeToo is a global campaign against sexual harassment and assault where women from all over the world open up and share their stories throwing light on sexual abuse prevalent in our society. Existing Law : Sexual Harassment of Women and Workplace Act, 2013: Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act was passed in
2013.The act broadens the Vishaka guidelines which were already in place. The act aims to prevent and protect women against sexual harassment at workplace and to ensure effective redressal of complaints of sexual harassment.
It defines an aggrieved victim as a woman of any age whether employed or not who alleges to have been subjected to any act of sexual harassment. The act made the employer responsible to prevent or deter acts of sexual harassment at the workplace. It
says that employer must constitute an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) at each office or branch with 10 or more employees. Concern :
The 2013 Act had entrusted the powers of a civil court to the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) without specifying if the members need to have a legal background. This was a major lacuna given that the ICC formed an important grievance redressal mechanism under the framework of the act. The 2013 act only imposed a fine of Rs.50,000 on employers for non-compliance with respect to the constitution of the ICC. This proved to be insufficient in ensuring that the employers constituted the ICC in a time-bound manner. It says that complaint has to be made within 3 months from the date of the incident. For a series of incidents, it has to be made within three months from the date of the last incident. However, this time-frame is not rigid as the ICC can extend the time limit if it is satisfied that the circumstances were such which prevented the woman from filing a complaint in that period. Key facts and Data: According to National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), the number of sexual harassment incidents at ―work or office premises‖ registered under Section 509 IPC (words, gesture or act to insult the modesty of a woman) were 479 and 401 in the years 2017 and 2018 respectively.
The total number of sexual harassment incidents in 2018 including that in public places, shelter homes and others was 20,962. The number of cases continued to be high questioning the effectiveness of the 2013 act.
GoM‟s Recommendations : The GoM has finalised its recommendations. Acknowledging the fact that the laws need to change with time, the sexual harassment of women at the
workplace needs to be strengthened with suitable amendments. The major recommendation includes the addition of new provisions to the Indian Penal Code (IPC) which would strengthen the existing laws on sexual harassment at the workplace.
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The proposed amendments would be largely based on the Vishaka Guidelines laid down by the Supreme Court in 1997. The amendments would form a part of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) project to reboot the IPC. Several retired judges, legal luminaries and State governments are being consulted by the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D) as a consultative measure before the overhauling of the IPC.
Vishakha Guidelines: The guidelines date back to 1997 when the Supreme Court laid them down while passing judgment
in a public interest litigation filed by Vishaka and other women‘s rights groups. The judgement defined sexual harassment for the first time and imposed three key obligations on institutions namely prohibition, prevention and redressal. The Court also directed institutions to establish a Complaints Committee, which would look into matters of sexual harassment of women at the workplace.
Source :- The Hindu
MINORITY INSTITUTIONS Context :
Minority Educational Institutions Do Not Have Absolute Right of Appointments: SC Key Highlights : The Supreme Court said that government-aided minority educational institutions do not have absolute right in deciding the appointment of teachers and that the state can introduce a regulatory regime and a mechanism to select teachers in the ―national interest‖ to ensure ―excellence in educational institutions,‖. Issue : These observations were made by the court while upholding constitutional validity of West Bengal Madrassas Service Commission Act, 2008, under which the selection and appointment of teachers in madrassas are to be decided by a commission. It set aside Calcutta high court verdict declaring various provision of the law unconstitutional for being violative of Article 30.
Article 30 is not absolute : The verdict said that Article 30(1) (right of minorities to establish and administer educational institutions of their choice) was neither absolute nor above the law.
The regulatory law should however balance the dual objectives of ensuring standard of excellence as well as preserving the right of the minorities to establish and administer their educational institutions. Regulations that embrace and reconcile the two objectives should be reasonable.
The managements of minority institutions cannot ignore such a legal regime by saying that it is their fundamental right under Article 30. A regulation framed in the national interest must necessarily apply to all institutions regardless whether
they are run by majority or minority as the essence of Article 30(1) is to ensure equal treatment between the majority and minority institutions. An objection can certainly be raised if an unfavorable treatment is meted out to an educational institution
established and administered by minority. But if ensuring of excellence in educational institutions is the underlying principle behind a regulatory regime and the mechanism of selection of teachers is so designed to achieve excellence in institutions, the
matter may stand on a completely different footing. Striking a balance : The court explains how to strike a ―balance‖ between the two objectives of excellence in education and the preservation of the minorities‘ right to run their educational institutions.
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For this, the court broadly divides education into two categories – secular education and education ―directly aimed at or dealing with preservation and protection of the heritage, culture, script and special characteristics of a religious or a linguistic minority.‖ When it comes to the latter, the court advocated ―maximum latitude‖ to be given to the management to appoint teachers. The court reasons that only ―teachers who believe in the religious ideology or in the special characteristics of the concerned minority would alone be able to imbibe in the students admitted in such educational institutions, what the minorities would like to preserve, profess and propagate.‖
However, minority institutions where the curriculum was ―purely secular‖, the intent must be to impart education availing the best possible teachers. Source :- The Hindu
NATIONAL MISSION FOR SAFETY OF WOMEN Context : Ministry of Law and Justice has started a scheme to set up 1023 Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) for speedy disposal of rape and POCSO cases. National Mission for Safety of Women (NMSW) : The government has taken up the work of setting up of Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) as a part of
the National Mission for Safety of Women (NMSW). The scheme will set up 1023 FTSCs across the country based on the pendency of subject cases obtained from various High Courts (1,66,882 numbers as on 31.03.2018).
It promises 'time-bound' trial and disposal of pending cases. The scheme also states that as per the directions of the Supreme Court in suo moto matter, out of 1023 FTSCs, 389 Courts have been proposed to be set up exclusively for POCSO Act related cases in districts
where pendency of such cases is more than 100. To bring out more stringent provisions and expeditious trial and disposal of such cases, the Union of India enacted the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2018.
The Criminal Law (Amendment), Act 2013 was enacted for effective deterrence against sexual offences. This widened the definition of rape and made punishment more stringent. Further, the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2018 was enacted to prescribe even more stringent penal provisions including death penalty for the rape of a girl below the age of 12 years. The Act also, among other things, mandates the completion of investigation and trials within 2 months each. Source :- PIB NATIONAL COMMISSION FOR SAFAI KARAMCHARIS
Context : According to data from the National Commission for Safai Karamcharis (NCSK), of the 926 sewer deaths, families of 172 victims are yet to receive compensation.
Gujarat and Maharashtra lag behind the most in compensation for sewer deaths. Key Findings : During a meeting of the Central Monitoring Committee under the Prohibition of Employment as Manual
Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act, 2013, which is meant to review the implementation of the law, States found lagging behind in the rehabilitation of manual scavengers were asked to comply soon. In most of the sewer dea cases since 1993, when the NCSK was established, compensation to the families of the victims had been paid. Tamil Nadu, which had the highest number of such deaths, had paid compensation in all but seven of the 234 cases. Gujarat was yet to pay or confirm payment in 48 of the 162 sewer deaths recorded in the State, and in 31 of those cases, the legal heir could not be traced, the data showed.
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Continuation of Inhume Practice : According to the NCSK, a total of 53,598 people, of which 29,923 were in Uttar Pradesh alone, had been identified as engaged in manual scavenging after surveys in 2013 and 2018. One-time cash assistance had been disbursed in 35,397 cases, with Uttar Pradesh accounting for 19,385 such people. Capital subsidy and skill development training had been provided to 1,007 and 7,383 of the identified manual scavengers, respectively, the data showed.
As per the provisions of the Act, District Vigilance Committees had been constituted in 21 States/Union Territories, State Monitoring Committees in 26, and State Commissions for Safai Karamcharis in eight.
Government efforts to end Manual Scavenging:
Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act 2013 It seeks to eliminate insanitary latrines and prohibit employment as manual scavengers. It also prohibits hazardous manual cleaning of sewer and septic tanks.
It made the states responsible for identifying and rehabilitating manual scavengers by providing them training, giving assistance, loans and even houses. Self-Employment Scheme for Rehabilitation of Manual Scavengers (SRMS) It aims to rehabilitate manual scavengers and their dependents in alternative occupations, in a time bound manner. Swachh Bharat Abhiyan: It has fourfold aim: To eliminate open defecation To eradicate manual scavenging To bring in modern and scientific municipal solid waste management Behavioural change regarding healthy sanitation practices National Commission for Safai Karamcharis (NCSK) : The National Commission for Safai Karamcharis (NCSK) was constituted on 12th August 1994 as a statutory body by an Act of Parliament viz. ‗National Commission for Safai Karamcharis Act, 1993‘.
The act ―The National Commission for Safai Karamcharis Act, 1993‖ lapsed in February 2004. The Commission is acting as a non-statutory body of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment whose tenure is extended from time to time through Government Resolutions.
Functions : Recommend government regarding specific programmes for welfare of Safai Karamcharis Monitor the implementation of Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act, 2013.
Source :- The Hindu DRAFT INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY INTERMEDIARY GUIDELINES RULES, 2018
Context : Government has said that Draft Information Technology [Intermediaries Guidelines (Amendment) Rules] 2018 are under process of revision in the wake of instances of violence and lynchings affiliated with
content posted on social media platforms. Background : The IT Ministry had released a draft of the Information Technology Act‘s Intermediaries Guidelines (Amendment) Rules in December 2018. Those rules applied to all intermediaries, which would include everything from Amazon to Vodafone to Google. Draft IT Intermediaries Rules 2018: Internet intermediary refers to a company that facilitates the use of the Internet. Such companies include internet service providers(ISPs), search engines and social media platforms.
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Key Features : Incorporation: The online intermediaries with more than 50 lakh users will be required to have a registered entity in India under the Companies Act. They should also appoint a nodal person of contact for 24X7 coordination with law enforcement
agencies and ensure compliance with their orders. Reporting: They should also provide information or assistance within 72 hours when asked by any
government agency for reasons of State security, cyber security, investigation, detection, prosecution or prevention of offenses. The intermediary should also report cyber security incidents with the Indian Computer
Emergency Response Team. Rules: The social media intermediaries should publish rules, privacy policy to stop users from engaging in online material which is paedophilic, pornographic, hateful, racially and ethnically objectionable. Grievance redressal: The intermediary should publish the name of the Grievance Officer and his/her contact details on its website. It should also lay down a mechanism by which it redresses the concerns of users who suffer as a result of access or usage of computer resources by any person in violation of rules.
Technology: The intermediary should also deploy technology based automated tools for identifying and removing or disabling public access to unlawful information or contents. Key Issues :
Intermediaries are required to prohibit publication of content that threatens public health or safety. This may violate the right to free speech under Article 19(1). Intermediaries are required to deploy automated tools for removing access to unlawful content. This may
be contrary to the reasoning of a recent Supreme Court judgement. Intermediaries with more than fifty lakh users must incorporate a company in India. It is unclear as to how this number will be calculated. Therefore, an intermediary will find it difficult to determine if it is
required to set up a company in India under this provision. Source :- Indian Express CENTRAL ADOPTION RESOURCE AUTHORITY Context : Central Adoption Resource Authority(CARA) has celebrated its 5th Annual Day in New Delhi. More in the news : CARA has conducted various training programmes and workshops at national and state levels for all the stakeholders of the adoption programme.
It has also carried out a number of advocacy programs through various mediums for creating awareness and sensitization of the general public. It is giving emphasis to the rehabilitation of older and special needs children in various Child Care
Institutions across the country.
CARA:
Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) is a statutory body of Ministry of Women & Child Development, Government of India. It functions as the nodal body for adoption of Indian children and is mandated to monitor and regulate in-country and inter-country adoptions.
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It also deals with adoption of orphan, abandoned and surrendered children through its associated
/recognised adoption agencies.
It is designated as the Central Authority to deal with inter-country adoptions in accordance with the
provisions of the Hague Convention on Intercountry Adoption,1993 ratified by the Government of India in 2003.
Hague Convention: The Hague Convention on the Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry
Adoption is a multilateral treaty developed by the Hague Conference on Private International Law(HCCH). The convention was concluded in 1993 and adopted in the year 1995.As of July 2019,101 states are
party to the convention. The Convention applies to children aged under 16 years. The convention protects children and their families against the risks of illegal, irregular, premature or ill-prepared adoptions abroad. It also puts safeguards in place to make sure that all intercountry adoptions are in the best interests of the child and respects their human rights. It also ensures cooperation among countries to guarantee that these safeguards are respected and to prevent the abduction of, sale of, or traffic in children. Source :- PIB ENEMY PROPERTY Context : Group of Ministers (GoM) headed by Union Home Minister will monitor the disposal of over 9,400 enemy properties which the government estimates is worth about Rs 1 lakh crore. Enemy Property : When wars broke out between India and China in 1962 and India and Pakistan in 1965 and 1971,the central government took over properties of citizens of China and Pakistan in India under the Defence of India Acts. These Acts define an enemy as a country that committed an act of aggression against India and its citizens. The properties of enemies in India were classified as enemy property. How did India deal with enemy property? Parliament of India enacted the Enemy Property Act in 1968. It provided for the continuous vesting of enemy property in the Custodian of Enemy Property for India.
The central government through the Custodian is in possession of enemy properties spread across many states in the country.
Enemy Property (Amendment and Validation) Bill,2016: In 2017,Parliament passed The Enemy Property (Amendment and Validation) Bill,2016. The bill amended The Enemy Property Act,1968 and The Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants) Act, 1971. Key Features : It makes the Custodian the owner of enemy property retrospectively from 1968. It voids the legal sales undertaken by enemies of enemy properties since 1968. This means that a person who may have bought an enemy property in good faith when such sale and purchase was legal, now stands to lose the property.
It prohibits Indian citizens who are legal heirs of enemies from inheriting enemy property, and brings them within the definition of ‗enemy‘. It also prohibits civil courts and other authorities from hearing certain disputes relating to enemy
property.
Source:- Indian Express 36
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GS PAPER - 02 GOVERNANCE - Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre
and States and the performance of these schemes
FINANCIAL SCHEME FOR LABOURERS Context :
Chhattisgarh government has launched „Mukhyamantri Vishwakarma Nirman Shramik Mrityu evam Divyang Sahayta Yojana‘ „Mukhyamantri Vishwakarma Nirman Shramik Mrityu evam Divyang Sahayta Yojana :
It seeks to provide fixed compensation for registered construction and unorganised labourers in the event of death on work or disability. Implementation :Chhattisgarh Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board of the Labour Department. Under these schemes, if a registered construction or unorganised labourer dies in accident at work at work, his family will be given financial aid of Rs 1 lakh while a sum of Rs 50,000 has been provisioned in case of disability caused to a worker due to accident These schemes would benefit around 36 lakh workers in the age group of 18-60 years. Source :- Business Standard ANNUAL CRIME IN INDIA REPORT 2018 Context :
The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) published the Annual Crime in India Report 2018 Key Highlights :
Overall crime in India increased 1.3% in 2018 compared to 2017 crime rate per lakh population was 383.5 in 2018
Crimes against women : Uttar Pradesh accounted for most number of crime against women followed by Maharashtra and West Bengal Madhya Pradesh accounted for the most rapes in the country. Among Union territories, Delhi recorded the highest number of rapes Cruelty by husband or his relatives (31.9%) followed by an assault on women with intent to outrage her modesty (27.6%) constituted the major share of crimes against women. Suicide : The total number of people who committed suicide in 2018 has increased from 2017. The highest number of suicide victims were daily wage earners comprising 22.4% of such deaths. Maximum of the suicides were reported from Maharashtra followed by Tamil Nadu, West
Bengal, Madhya Pradesh and Karnataka. Farm sector workers accounted for 7.7 % of the total number of suicides in the country. 37
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West Bengal, Bihar, Odisha, Uttarakhand, Meghalaya, Goa, Chandigarh, Daman & Diu, Delhi, Lakshadweep and Puducherry reported zero suicides by farmers/cultivators and agricultural labourers. Economic Offences : It includes criminal breach of trust, forgery, cheating, fraud and counterfeiting, etc.
Higher economic offences were observed in 2018 as compared to 2017. Uttar Pradesh accounted for the maximum number of economic offences followed by Telangana and Bihar.
Cyber Crime : An increase in cybercrimes has been observed in 2018 compared to 2017. Source :- The Hindu NATIONAL STARTUP ADVISORY COUNCIL Context : Central Government Notifies National Startup Advisory Council. National Startup Advisory Council: The Council will advise the government on measures needed to build a strong ecosystem for nurturing innovation and startups in the country to drive sustainable economic growth and generate large scale employment opportunities.
The council will : Suggest measures to foster a culture of innovation amongst citizens and students in particular. Promote innovation in all sectors of the economy across the country, including semi-urban and rural areas.
Support creative and innovative ideas through incubation and research and development to transform them into valuable products, processes or solutions to improve productivity and efficiency.
Create an environment of absorption of innovation in the industry. Suggest measures to facilitate public organizations to assimilate innovation with a view to improving public service delivery. Promote creation, protection and commercialization of intellectual property rights. Make it easier to start, operate, grow and exit businesses by reducing regulatory compliances and costs. Promote ease of access to capital for startups, incentivize domestic capital for investments into startups, mobilize global capital for investments in Indian startups.
Keep control of startups with original promoters. Provide access to global markets for Indian startups. Members :
The Council will be chaired by the Minister for Commerce & Industry. The Council will consist of non-official members, to be nominated by the Central Government, from various categories like founders of successful startups, veterans who have grown and scaled
companies in India, persons capable of representing interests of investors into startups, persons capable of representing interests of incubators and accelerators and representatives of associations of stakeholders of startups and representatives of industry associations. The term of the non- official members of the Council will be for a period of two years. The nominees of the concerned Ministries/Departments/Organisations, not below the rank of Joint Secretary to the Government of India, will be ex-officio members of the Council. The Joint Secretary, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade will be the Convener of the Council.
Source:- PIB
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GS PAPER - 02 GOVERNANCE - Salient features of the Representation of People's Act.; Important aspects of governance, transparency and accountability, e-governance- applications, models, successes, limitations, and potential
POLITICAL PARTIES REGISTRATION TRACKING MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (PPRTMS) Context : The Election Commission of India (ECI) launched the Political Parties Registration Tracking Management System (PPRTMS). Political Parties Registration Tracking Management System : The Political Parties Registration Tracking Management System will enable tracking of the status of the application by applicants. The applicant has to provide a relevant contact number and email address in the application to track its progress. The status update will be sent via text message and email. Registration of political parties : The registration of political parties is governed under the provisions of section 29A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951. An association seeking registration under the said Section has to submit an application to the ECI within a period of 30 days following the date of its formation. These guidelines are in exercise by ECI of the powers conferred by Article 324 of the Constitution of India and Section 29A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951. Source :- PIB
CITIZENSHIP LAW Context : Supreme Court has declined hearing a plea to declare Citizenship Amendment Act as
constitutional and said that there was already a presumption of constitutionality to a law passed by Parliament. Presumption of constitutionality: The term ‗presumption of constitutionality‘ is a legal principle that is used by courts during statutory interpretation. Statutory interpretation means the process by which courts interpret and apply a law passed by the legislature such as Parliament. Presumption of constitutionality says that the judiciary should presume statutes enacted by the legislature to be constitutional, unless the law is clearly unconstitutional or a fundamental right is implicated. The presumption is not absolute. It does not stand when there is a gross violation of the Constitution. Hence, there are limitations to the doctrine. Source :- Indian Express NATIONAL VOTERS‟ DAY Context :
10th National Voters‘ Day to be celebrated on 25th January 2020. National Voters Day 2020 : Theme for 2020 : Electoral Literacy for Stronger Democracy The theme sets the tone for year-long activities which focus on voter education and renewal of citizens‘ faith in the electoral process. This year marks an important milestone in the history of Indian democracy as Election Commission of India (ECI) completes 70 years of its journey. Belief in the Ballot-2, an anthology of 101 human stories from across the nation about Indian elections, developed in collaboration with the Publication Division will be launched on the occasion. ‗The Centenarian Voters: Sentinels of Democracy‘with 51 stories of veteran voters across the nation who braved difficult terrain, poor health and other challenges to come out and vote will be launched on the occasion by the Hon‘ble President. 39
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The National Awards for the Best Electoral Practices shall be conferred on District and State level Officers for their outstanding performance in the conduct of elections in different spheres such as IT initiatives, Security Management, Election Management and contribution in the field of voter awareness and outreach. National Voters Day :
The National Voters‘ Day (NVD) has been celebrated on January 25 every year since 2011, all across the country at over ten lakh locations across the nation, that include polling stations areas, sub divisions, divisions, district and state headquarters, to mark the Foundation day of Election Commission of India,
which was established on 25th January 1950. The main purpose of the NVD celebration is to encourage, facilitate and maximize the enrolment, especially for the new voters.
Dedicated to the voters of the country, the Day is utilized to spread awareness among voters for promoting informed participation in the electoral process. New Voters are felicitated and handed over their Elector Photo Identity Card in the NVD function.
Source:- PIB
GS PAPER - 02 GOVERNANCE - Indian Constitution- historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure. 6TH SCHEDULE AREA STATUS TO LADAKH Context: Union Tribal Affairs Ministry has proposed 6th Schedule Area status to Union Territory of Ladakh.
6th Schedule of Indian Constitution : The Sixth Schedule consists of provisions for the administration of tribal areas in Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura and Mizoram, according to Article 244 of the Indian Constitution. It was passed by the
constituent Assembly in 1949. It seeks to safeguard the rights of tribal population through the formation of Autonomous District Councils (ADC).
It also provides for separate Regional Councils for each area constituted as an autonomous region. The Governors of these four states are empowered to declare some tribal dominated districts / areas of these states as autonomous districts and autonomous regions.
Autonomous District Councils : Autonomous District Councils are administrative bodies constituted in accordance to Sixth Schedule, Article 244 (2) & Article 275(1) of the Indian Constitution.
Powers : can constitute village courts within their jurisdiction to hear trial of cases involving the tribes empowered to make legislative laws on matters like land, forests, fisheries, social security, entertainment, public health, etc. with due approval from the governor Acts passed by Parliament and state legislatures may or may not be levied in these regions unless the President and the governor gives approval.
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Autonomous district councils: Assam: Bodoland Territorial Council, Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council and Dima Hasao Autonomous District Council. Meghalaya: Garo Hills Autonomous District Council, Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council and Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council.
Tripura: Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council. Mizoram: Chakma Autonomous District Council, Lai Autonomous District Council, Mara Autonomous District Council.
Benefits of Sixth Schedule : The people of Ladakh want to get tribal status so that people from other parts of the country do not come and settle there.
It will also protect their demographic recognition. The sixth schedule will also protect the natives‘ privilege on the land. The Sixth Schedule grants considerable autonomy to tribal communities. The District Council and the
Regional Council gets the real power to make laws. These bodies can sanction funds from the Consolidated Fund of India to meet the costs of schemes for development, health care, education, roads and regulatory powers in the area. Source:- AIR RIGHT TO ACCESS INTERNET - FUNDAMENTAL RIGHT
Context : The Supreme Court has ruled that the right to access the internet is a fundamental right under Article 19 of the Indian Constitution.
Background : This ruling came on a petition on Internet blockade in Jammu and Kashmir due to revoking of Article 370.
The cases were also related to the impact of the prohibitory orders issued under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) on press freedom. SC verdict :
The Supreme Court has directed the Jammu and Kashmir authorities to review all orders imposing curbs in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The court observed that suspending Internet services indefinitely is impermissible under the Temporary
Suspension of Telecom Services [Public Emergency or Public Service] Rules,2017. The suspension could be done for temporary duration only and the same is subject to judicial review. SC verdict on Freedom of Speech and expression:
Freedom of speech and expression through the medium of internet is a fundamental right under Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution. The restrictions on internet have to follow the principles of proportionality under Article 19(2). The doctrine of Proportionality postulates that the nature and extent of the State‘s interference with the exercise of a right must be proportionate to the goal it seeks to achieve. Freedom of trade and commerce through internet is also a constitutionally protected right under Article 19(1)(g). Suspension of internet for indefinite period not permissible. It can only be for a reasonable duration and periodic review should be done. SC on Section 144: The court said that Section 144 cannot be used to suppress the legitimate expression of opinion or grievance or the exercise of democratic rights The imposition of Section 144 must strike a balance between the rights of the individual and the concerns of the state.
Further, the powers under Section 144 should be exercised in a reasonable and bona fide manner and the order must state material facts in order to enable judicial review. 41
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Article 19 : Article 19 of the Constitution lists the following as fundamental rights under the Protection of certain rights. to freedom of speech and expression;
to assemble peaceably and without arms; to form associations or unions; to move freely throughout the territory of India;
to reside and settle in any part of the territory of India; and to practise any profession or to carry on any occupation, trade or business. Restrictions under article 19 : The only restrictions which may be imposed are those mentioned in clause (2) of Article 19.These are: the interests of the sovereignty and integrity of India, the security of the State, friendly relations with foreign States, public order, decency or morality in relation to contempt of court, defamation or incitement to an offence.
Section 144 : Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code(CrPC) of 1973 authorizes the Executive Magistrate of any state or territory to issue an order to prohibit the assembly of four or more people in an area.
It is imposed in urgent cases of nuisance or apprehended danger of some event that has the potential to cause trouble or damage to human life or property. Source :- Indian Express
PRIVATE PROPERTY - A HUMAN RIGHT Context : Recently, SC in its verdict - In a democratic polity governed by the rule of law, the state cannot deprive citizens of their property without the sanction of law. Background : The case was of an 80-year-old woman whose 3.34 hectare land was forcibly taken by the Himachal Pradesh Government in 1967 for constructing a road. Right to own a property is a Human Right : The court ruled that the citizen‘s right to own private property is a human right. It said that to forcibly dispose citizens of their private property without following the due process of law would be to violate a human right as also the constitutional right. The Bench referred to an earlier verdict in State of Haryana v. Mukesh Kumar case (2011) wherein it was held that the right to property is not only a constitutional or statutory right, but also a human right. Doctrine of Adverse Possession :
The state cannot trespass into the private property of a citizen and then claim ownership of the land in the name of ‗adverse possession. Grabbing private land and then claiming it as its own makes the state an encroacher.
Further, the apex court also used its extraordinary jurisdiction under Article 136 and Article 142 of the Constitution to direct the government to pay the woman compensation of 1 crore rupees.
Right to property: The 44th Amendment of 1978 deleted the right to property from the list of fundamental rights. It was made a Constitutional right under Article 300A.
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Article 300A requires the state to follow due procedure and authority of law to deprive a person of his or
her private property.
Right to Adverse possession: The right to Adverse possession is a legal doctrine that allows a person who possesses or resides on someone else‘s land for an extended period of time to claim legal title to that land. In India, the person who is not the original owner of the land becomes the owner because of the fact that he has been in possession of the property for a minimum of 12-years within which the real owner did not
seek legal recourse to oust him.
Article 142: Article 142 provides for the enforcement of decrees and orders of Supreme Court. It consists of two clauses: Article 142(1) states that Supreme Court in the exercise of its jurisdiction may pass such decree or make such order as is necessary for doing complete justice in any cause or matter pending before it and the orders shall be enforceable throughout the territory of India.
Article 136(Special leave petition): Under Article 136 of the Constitution, the Supreme Court is authorized to grant in its discretion special leave to appeal from any judgment, decree determination, sentence or order in any case or matter or passed or made by any court or tribunal in the territory of India.
The only exception to this power of the Supreme Court is with regard to any judgment of any court or tribunal constituted by or under any law relating to the armed forces.
Source :- The Hindu TULU - THE EIGHTH SCHEDULE Context : Recently, activists have demanded to include Tulu in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution. Tulu : Tulu is a Dravidian language whose speakers are concentrated in two coastal districts of Karnataka and Kasaragod district of Kerala. Kasaragod district is called as the ‗Sapta bhasha Samgama Bhumi (the confluence of seven languages)‘ and Tulu is one among the seven. Why Should Tulu be included in Eight Schedule?
According to 2011 Census, there are around 18 lakh native speakers of Tulu in India. This is more in number than speakers of Manipuri and Sanskrit which have the Eighth Schedule status. Article 29 of the Constitution provides that a section of citizens having a distinct language, script or
culture have the right to conserve the same Robert Caldwell (1814-1891), in his book, A Comparative Grammar of the Dravidian or South- Indian Family of Languages has called Tulu as one of the most highly developed languages of the
Dravidian family. Yuelu Proclamation which was adopted by UNESCO at Changsha, The People‘s Republic of China in 2018 provides for the protection and promotion of linguistic diversity.
Advantages of including Tulu in the Eighth Schedule: Tulu would get recognition from the Sahitya Akademi. Tulu books would be translated into other recognised Indian languages.
Members of Parliament and MLAs could speak Tulu in Parliament and State Assemblies, respectively. Candidates could write all-India competitive examinations like the Civil Services exam in Tulu.
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Schedule VIII :
The Eighth Schedule to the Constitution of India lists the official languages of the Republic of India.
It consists of the following 22 languages:-
(1) Assamese, (2) Bengali, (3) Gujarati, (4) Hindi, (5) Kannada, (6) Kashmiri, (7) Konkani, (8) Malayalam, (9) Manipuri, (10) Marathi, (11) Nepali, (12) Oriya, (13) Punjabi, (14) Sanskrit, (15) Sindhi, (16) Tamil, (17) Telugu, (18) Urdu (19) Bodo, (20) Santhali, (21) Maithili and (22) Dogri.
Source :- The Hindu
GS PAPER - 02 GOVERNANCE - Important aspects of governance, transparency and accountability, e- governance- applications, models, successes, limitations, and potential;
MUTUAL LEGAL ASSISTANCE TREATY Context : Government has revised guidelines for seeking assistance from foreign countries under the Mutual Legal
Assistance Treaty(MLAT). More in the news : These guidelines were made in the backdrop of complaints against the bureaucratic delays in the Ministry
of Home Affairs(MHA) on MLAT issues. The guidelines have provisions for service of documents to authorities of foreign country preferably within ten days of receipt of request in respect of offences committed against women and children.
Need : The transnational nature of crime and digital explosion has blurred geographical boundaries for criminal activities. Availability of evidence and criminals outside the sovereign jurisdiction of countries has necessitated the transformation of scope and nature of conventional investigation. Over the decade, there have been substantial changes in International Cooperation based on new legislations, regulations & conventions and amendment in procedural laws all over the world including India. These changes necessitated the need for comprehensive review of existing guidelines to keep them abreast the modern era requirements. Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty(MLAT) : A mutual legal assistance treaty (MLAT) is an agreement between two or more countries for the purpose of gathering and exchanging information in an effort to enforce public or criminal laws. MLATs can be bilateral (country to country), multilateral, regional (any regional grouping example ASEAN) and country to regional (India with all the countries of European Union). This assistance may take the form of examining and identifying people, places and things , custodial transfers and providing assistance with the immobilisation of the instruments of criminal activity. Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is the nodal Ministry and the Central authority for seeking and providing mutual legal assistance in criminal law matters.
Currently, India has Mutual Legal Assistance Treaties(MLAT) with 42 countries and is signatory to various International Conventions for cooperation in criminal matters. Source :- PIB WHAT IS A POLICE COMMISSIONER ATE SYSTEM? Context : The Uttar Pradesh Cabinet has approved the commissionerate system of policing for state capital Lucknow, and Noida. Background: Under the 7th Schedule of the Constitution, ‗Police‘ is under the State list, meaning individual states typically legislate and exercise control over this subject. In the arrangement in force at the district level, a ‗dual system‘ of control exists in which the Superintendent of Police(SP) has to work with the District Magistrate(DM) for supervising police administration.
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However, at the metropolitan level, many states have replaced the dual system with the commissioner ate system as it is supposed to allow for faster decision-making to solve complex urban-centric issues. Police commissioner ate system: In the commissioner ate system, the Commissioner of Police(CP) is the head of a unified police command structure and is responsible for the force in the city, and is accountable to the state government. The office also has magisterial powers including those related to regulation, control and licensing. The CP is usually drawn from the Deputy Inspector General rank or above, and is assisted by Special/Joint/Additional/Deputy Commissioners. How many states have it? In 1983,the sixth National Police Commission report recommended the introduction of a police commissionerate system in cities with a population of 5 lakh and above as well as in places having special
conditions. Initially, only four cities had the system namely Kolkata, Mumbai, Hyderabad and Chennai. But by 2016,53 cities had implemented this system.
Source :- Indian Express
G S PAPER - 02 GOVERNANCE - Statutory, regulatory and various quasi-judicial bodies Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.
ANTI-DEFECTION LAW: SUPREME COURT FOR TRIBUNAL ON LAWMAKERS'
DISQUALIFICATION Context : The Supreme Court has sought response from the Centre on a public interest litigation(PIL) seeking
directions to implement the recommendations of National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP) 2020. More about the petition :
The petitioner argued that e-vehicles are more viable since the combustion process in compressed natural gas (CNG) enabled vehicles also causes global warming. Hence, a proper infrastructure for Electric Vehicles(EV) operated vehicles also needs to be developed.
Further, the plea also suggested ways including preferential parking, exemption from toll fee, subsidized private ownership for charging infrastructure in sync with international practices to boost the adoption of EV‘s.
National Electric Mobility Mission Plan(NEMMP) 2020: The NEMMP 2020 is the National Mission document providing the vision and the roadmap for the faster adoption of Electric vehicles and their manufacturing in the country. The plan aims to enhance national fuel security, to provide affordable and environmentally friendly transportation and to enable the Indian automotive industry to achieve global manufacturing leadership. The mission targets to achieve an ambitious target to achieve 6-7 million sales of hybrid and electric vehicles by the year 2020. Under the plan, the government has also launched the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehicles (FAME India) scheme.
Fame India Scheme: Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehicles in India (FAME India) Scheme was launched in 2015.
It is implemented by Ministry of Heavy Industries & Public Enterprises. It aims to support hybrid/electric vehicles market development and Manufacturing ecosystem. The main objectives of the scheme are
encourage faster adoption of Electric and hybrid vehicle by way of offering upfront Incentive on purchase of Electric vehicles and establish necessary charging Infrastructure for electric vehicles.
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Further, FAME II is an expanded version of FAME I which aimed to support hybrid/electric
vehicles market development and Manufacturing ecosystem.
Source:- The Hindu INDIAN NATIONAL COMMISSION FOR COOPERATION WITH UNESCO (INCCU) Context : The Union Minister for Human Resource Development chaired the meeting of the Indian National Commission for Cooperation with UNESCO (INCCU). INCCU: Indian National Commission for Cooperation with UNESCO(INCCU) was formed by the Government of India in 1949. It was made a permanent commission in 1951. It functions under the Department of Secondary and Higher Education in the Ministry of Human
Resource Development. The main objective of the Commission is to advise the Government in matters falling in the domain of UNESCO and to play a role in UNESCO‘s work particularly in the formulation and execution of its
programmes. The Commission consists of five Sub-Commissions namely: Education
Natural Sciences Social Sciences Communication and Culture. Composition : President : The Minister of Human Resource Development. Secretary General : The Secretary in the Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Human Resource Development. Importance of INCCU : It serves as a liaison agency and medium of cooperation between the Government of India and the institutions concerned with the working for the advancement of education, science and culture. It encourages participation of national, governmental and non-governmental institutions and various individuals in the formulation and execution of UNESCO‘s programmes. It also advises the Government of India on matters relating to UNESCO. Significance : The INCCU can play an important role in highlighting India‘s efforts and achievements so that it gets the due support, acknowledgement and recognition across countries.
Better projections at the international level can also enable India to contribute more towards the fulfilment of the objectives of UNESCO while also strengthening India's image globally. Source:- PIB
GS PAPER - 02 GOVERNANCE- Important aspects of governance, transparency and accountability, e- governance - applications, models, successes, limitations, and potential
DEMOCRACY INDEX Context :
Economist Intelligence Unit released Democracy Index 2019.
Democracy Index : The Democracy Index is an annual comprehensive list that compares the political systems of 165 countries and two territories. The democracy score is based on five parameters:
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electoral process and pluralism,
functioning of government,
political participation,
political culture and civil liberties. It ranks countries based on their scores on 60 indicators.
It classifies them as one of four types of regime: full democracy, flawed democracy, hybrid regime and authoritarian regime.
Key Highlights : The index was topped by Norway, followed by Iceland and Sweden
North Korea was at the bottom of the global ranking at 167th place. India was ranked 51st and included in the ―flawed democracy‖ category. India scored the highest in the ‗electoral process and pluralism‘ category with 8.67 points.
However, it scored below 7 in the other four categories — ‗functioning of government‘, ‗political participation‘, ‗political culture‘ and ‗civil liberties‘. Countries such as the US, the United Kingdom, Malaysia, Taiwan, Chile, South Africa, Israel and
Botswana ranked higher than India on the index. Indonesia, Hong Kong, Pakistan and Russia were behind India. Source:- The Hindu BHUVAN PANCHAYAT V 3.0 WEB PORTAL Context :
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched the Bhuvan Panchayat web portal's version 3.0. Bhuvan Panchayat web Portal :
For better planning and monitoring of government projects, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched the Bhuvan Panchayat web portal's version 3.0. For the first time, a thematic data base on a 1:10,00 scale for the entire country is available with
integrated high resolution satellite data for planning. The third version of the portal will provide database visualisation and services for the benefit of panchayat members, among others.
The project is meant to provide geo-spatial services to aid gram panchayat development planning process of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj. The project is meant to provide geo-spatial services to aid gram panchayat development planning process
of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj. The targeted audiences for this portal are Public, PRIs and different stakeholders belonging to the gram panchayats. Significance : This kind of technical empowerment benefits officers dedicated to the rural development ministry. The space-based information support for decentralised planning programme was taken up in 2011 to empower panchayati raj institutions and its stake-holders to enable participatory and decentralised planning in the country Source:- PIB GS PAPER - 02 GOVERNANCE -Separation of powers between various organs dispute redressal mechanisms and institutions.
NATIONAL INVESTIGATION AGENCY ACT Context : The Chhattisgarh state government has moved the Supreme Court against the 2008 National Investigative Agency(NIA) Act stating it is violative of the Constitution.
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NIA Act,2008: National Investigation Agency(NIA) is a central counter terrorism agency established by the Indian Government under the National Investigative Agency (NIA) Act,2008. The Act makes the NIA the only truly federal agency in the country along the lines of the FBI in the United States and more powerful than the CBI. It gives the NIA powers to take suo motu cognizance of terror activities in any part of India and register a case to enter any state without permission from the state government and to investigate and arrest people.
Chhattisgarh Government objections: The Chhattisgarh government has said that the Act is ultra vires of the Constitution and beyond the legislative competence of the Parliament.
The Act allows the Centre to create an agency for investigation which is a function of the state police. ‗Police‘ is an entry in the State List of the Constitution‘s 7th Schedule. The act also leave no room of coordination and pre-condition of consent, in any form whatsoever by the
Centre from the State govt. which clearly repudiates the idea of state sovereignty as envisaged under the Constitution.
NIA Amendment Bill,2019: Parliament has passed the National Investigation Agency (Amendment) Bill,2019. The bill enable NIA to additionally investigate offences related to human trafficking counterfeit currency manufacture or sale of prohibited arms cyber-terrorism and offences under the Explosive Substances Act,1908. It also gives NIA officers the power to investigate offences committed outside India. But the NIA‘s jurisdiction will be subject to international treaties and domestic laws of other countries. Further, the bill also enables the Central government to designate sessions courts as special
courts for such trials.
Source :- Indian Express NATIONAL SECURITY ACT Context : Recently, Lieutenant Governor of Delhi had issued an order giving the Police Commissioner the power to detain individuals under the tough National Security Act (NSA),1980.
National Security Act(NSA): The National Security Act(NSA) of 1980 is an act of Indian Parliament which empowers the Centre or a State government for preventive detention if authorities are satisfied that a person is a threat to national
security or law and order. The maximum period for which one may be detained is 12 months. But the term can be extended if the government finds fresh evidence.
Grounds for Preventive Detention: acting in any manner prejudicial to the defence of India, the relations of India with foreign powers or the security of India.
regulating the continued presence of any foreigner in India or with a view to making arrangements for his expulsion from India. preventing them from acting in any manner prejudicial to the security of the State or for the maintenance of public order or to the maintenance of supplies and services essential to the community it is necessary so to do.
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Rights against preventive detention: Normally, if a person is arrested, he or she is guaranteed certain basic rights. These include the right to be informed of the reason for the arrest. However, under NSA person could not be informed about the reasons for his arrest for up to five days and in exceptional circumstances not later than 10 days. The arrested person is also not entitled to the aid of any legal practitioner in any matter connected with the proceedings before an advisory board which is constituted by the government for dealing with NSA cases.
Source:- Indian Express
GS PAPER - 02 GOVERNANCE - pressure groups and formal/informal associations and their role in the Polity.
SUSPENSION OF OPERATIONS AGREEMENT Context : National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB), a banned insurgent group fighting for a sovereign land for Bodo people, has signed a tripartite agreement with the central and Assam governments to suspend operations. According to the pact, the banned outfit NDFB under the leadership of its ―president‖ B Saoraigwra will
abjure violence and join in peace talks with the government. Background : Active Bodo insurgent group operating in Assam with demand for a separate state.
The demand for a separate state for the Bodos has been going on in Assam for about five decades with several Bodo over ground and militant groups raising it, leading to agitations, protests and violence that resulted in many deaths.
NDFB: An outfit named Bodo Security Force(BdSF) was formed in 1986.In 1994,the BdSF renamed itself as the National Democratic Front of Bodoland(NDFB). The outfit is an armed separatist outfit which seeks to obtain a sovereign Bodoland for the Bodo people. The group has carried out several attacks in Assam targeting non-Bodo civilians as well as the
security forces. In 2008,NDFB was divided into two factions namely NDFB(Progressive) and NDFB (RD).In 2012 NDFB(RD) again broke away and the NDFB(S) faction was formed.
Currently, all these factions are in peace talks with the Union Government of India.
Bodos: Bodos are the single largest tribal community in Assam making up over 5-6% of the state‘s population. They have controlled large parts of Assam in the past.
The Bodos have had a long history of separatist demands marked by armed struggle. They demanded for a separate state called Bodoland. This demand led to the signing of Bodo Accord in 2003.
The accord provides for the establishment of a Bodoland Territorial Council under Sixth Schedule of the Constitution of India. The four districts in Assam namely Kokrajhar, Baksa, Udalguri and Chirang constitutes the Bodo Territorial Area District(BTAD).
Source :- Economic Times
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GS PAPER - 02 GOVERNANCE - Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure, devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein.
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL Context : The Andhra Pradesh Assembly has passed a statutory resolution seeking to abolish the state Legislative Council. Legislative Council: The LC or Vidhan Parishad is the upper house in those states that have a bicameral legislature; the
lower house being the State Legislative Assembly. Its establishment is defined in Article 169 of the Constitution of India. Strength :
As per article 171 clause (1), the total number of members in the legislative council must not have more than a third of the total membership of the Assembly of that state and in no case fewer than 40 members. Election of Legislative Council: 1/3rd of members are elected by the members of the Assembly. 1/3rd by electorates consisting of members of municipalities, district boards and other local authorities in the state. 1/12th by an electorate consisting of teachers. 1/12th by registered graduates. The remaining members are nominated by the Governor from among those who have distinguished themselves in literature, science, art, the cooperative movement, and social service.
Grievances : The Council is working with a political agenda to block his proposal. While the need for a bicameral legislature in the States has often been questioned, few would support the idea that the potential difficulty in getting the Council‘s approval should be a reason for its abolition. Chief Ministers ought to bear the possible delay that the Council‘s opinion or course of action may cause, and seek to build a legislative consensus instead of pushing their agenda through. Mr. Reddy will have to listen to different voices on his proposal to locate the State High Court in Kurnool, its legislature in Amaravati, and the government secretariat in Visakhapatnam. Legislative council and it Revival :
A.P.‘s proposal will bear fruit only if Parliament passes a law to that effect, based on the State‘s request. Recent experience suggests that States without a Legislative Council favour its revival. Rajasthan, Assam, Odisha and Madhya Pradesh have passed resolutions for a revival, but are yet to get parliamentary approval.
In Tamil Nadu, at least two erstwhile DMK regimes had favoured revival, and even parliamentary approval given in 2010 did not result in the actual re-establishment of the Council, which was dissolved in 1986.
In A.P., the N.T. Rama Rao regime sought its abolition in 1983, and it was approved by Parliament in 1985. Under the Congress‘s Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy, the Legislative Council was revived in 2007. It is quite clear that wherever the Council is sought to be revived or abolished, there is no consensus.
A parliamentary committee that went into the Bills introduced in respect of Assam and Rajasthan suggested that the Centre evolve a national policy on having an Upper House in the States. The larger question is whether the Councils are serving their intended purpose — to take a considered
view on matters without being influenced by electoral considerations.
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Conclusion : If the Upper Houses are used only for accommodating leaders who have lost general elections, there may not be much meaning in their existence. There is less justification for having separate representation in Councils for graduates and local bodies when democracy has taken roots and Assemblies are representative of all sections. Source:- The Hindu GS PAPER - 02 GOVERNANCE - Appointment to various Constitutional posts, powers, functions and responsibilities of various Constitutional Bodies.
ALL INDIA JUDICIAL SERVICE Context : Most of the reasons for creation of an All India Judicial Service (AIJS) for appointing lower court judges
―no longer exist or have been resolved through changes in rules, regulations and practices‖, a report by Vidhi Centre for Legal Policy said. Background :
The lower judiciary is plagued by a number of issues like the large pendency in the cases and the poor quality of its judgment which is more often than not appealed in the higher courts. This is mainly due to a large number of vacancies in judicial positions, the long delays in the appointment process and lack of transparency in the appointment process. Currently, the appointments of District Judges and Subordinate Judiciary are done by the respective State governments. Given the challenges being faced in the lower judiciary, there has been a growing call for the creation of a unified pan-India judicial service. The idea for All India Judicial Service (AIJS) was first proposed by the 14th Report of the Law Commission of India in 1958, aimed at creating a centralised cadre of District Judges. The Vidhi Centre for Legal Policy in its recent report titled, ‗A primer on the All India Judicial Service – A solution in search of a problem?‘ has brought forth many arguments against an AIJS. Key Issues highlighted in the report: The major arguments in favour of the AIJS were that it would help fill the approximately 5,000 vacancies across the District and Subordinate Judiciary in India. However, a closer analysis would reveal the fact that it is only certain High Courts which account for a majority of the approximately 5,000 vacancies. AIJS has no role in the appointment process of the High courts.
Instead of proposing an AIJS as a solution for judicial vacancies, it may be more effective to investigate the reasons and causes for a large number of vacancies in the poorly performing States and address the issues at the local levels.
AIJS has been pitched as a solution to lack of representation for the marginalized in the judiciary. Interestingly many States are already reserving posts for marginalized communities and women in the appointment process of the lower judiciary.
The creation of AIJS and the subsequent reservation would face some backlash given that many of the communities who currently benefit from the State quotas, may oppose the creation of an AIJS. This is because the communities recognised as Other Backward Classes (OBC) by State governments may or may not be classified as OBCs by the Central government. This might lead to the disempowerment of a few communities in the state. Judges recruited through a centralized process may not know the local languages of the States in which they are posted. This becomes an important impediment considering the fact that the proceedings of civil and criminal courts are to be conducted in a language prescribed by the respective State governments which in most of the cases is the state language. The lack of understanding of the local language and customs are issues that deserve serious consideration since it will not only lead to longer case disposal times and also may affect the quality of judgments. Source :- The Hindu
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GS PAPER - 02 INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS - Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India's interests, Indian diaspora.
NEW MIDDLE EAST PLAN
Context : US President has released the Middle East plan, Peace to Prosperity: A Vision to Improve the Lives of the Palestinian and Israeli People.
Status of Jerusalem The status of Jerusalem including historical sites sacred to Judaism, Islam and Christianity. Establishing mutually agreed borders and finding security arrangements to satisfy Israeli fears of attacks
by Palestinians. The Palestinian demand for statehood in territory — the West Bank, Gaza Strip and East Jerusalem captured by Israel in the 1967 Middle East War.
Finding a solution to the plight of millions of Palestinian refugees. Palestinian demands that Israel remove its settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. The status of Jerusalem including historical sites sacred to Judaism, Islam and Christianity.
Establishing mutually agreed borders and finding security arrangements to satisfy Israeli fears of attacks by Palestinians. The Palestinian demand for statehood in territory — the West Bank, Gaza Strip and East Jerusalem
captured by Israel in the 1967 Middle East War. Finding a solution to the plight of millions of Palestinian refugees. Palestinian demands that Israel remove its settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.
Key features of the Middle East Plan: Jerusalem to stay united and remain the capital of Israel. The capital of Palestine can occupy far-flung areas of eastern Jerusalem which can be renamed Al Quds,
the Arabic name for Jerusalem. Israel does not have to dismantle any of its illegal settlements in the West Bank. The status quo to be preserved at Jerusalem‘s Temple Mount/al-Haram al-Sharif complex which lies in the eastern part of the city captured by Israel in the 1967 war. Transportation links to be established between the unconnected Palestinian territories in the West Bank and Gaza. A $50 billion investment fund to boost the Palestinian and neighbouring Arab state economies. Source:- Indian Express US-KENYA MILITARY BASE Context : Jihadists from Somalia‘s Al-Shabaab group on Sunday attacked a military base used by U.S. and Kenyan
forces in Kenya‘s coastal Lamu region.
Lamu Region :
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Lamu Island is located on the eastern coast of Kenya.
Lamu is one of the oldest and the best-preserved living settlements among the Swahili towns (in
Arabic Swahili means "of the coast") on the East African coast. The old town is thus a unique and rare historical living heritage with more than 700 years of continuous settlement. It is built on coral stone and mangrove timber and is characterized by structural forms such as inner
courtyards, verandas, and elaborately carved wooden doors. It was one of the most important trade centres in East Africa before other towns such as Zanzibar and Mombasa took over.
Lamu represents the Swahili culture, resulting from the interaction between the Bantu, Arabs, Persians, Indians, and Europeans. Lamu has hosted major Muslim religious festivals since the 19th century and has become a
significant centre for the study of Islamic and Swahili cultures. It is recognised as a World Heritage Site by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
Source :- The Hindu PROT ECTING POWER Context :
Following the killing of Iranian military and intelligence commander Major General Qassem Soleimani in Baghdad in a drone attack carried out by the United States, the Iranian government registered its protest with the Swiss Embassy in Tehran.
Protecting Power: A protecting power is a country that represents another sovereign state in a country where it lacks its own diplomatic representation.
Switzerland represents the interests of the US in Iran.This is because the US itself does not have an embassy there. In an arrangement such as this, Switzerland is the Protecting Power of the United States interests in Iran.
The instrument of Protecting Powers is provided for under the 1961 and 1963 Vienna Conventions on Diplomatic Relations. Vienna Convention 1961:
The Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations of 1961 is an international treaty that defines a framework for diplomatic relations between independent countries. It specifies the privileges of a diplomatic mission that enable diplomats to perform their function without fear of coercion or harassment by the host country. It also says that if the diplomatic relations are broken off between two States, or if a mission is permanently or temporarily recalled then the sending State may entrust the protection of its interests and those of its nationals to a third State acceptable to the receiving State. Vienna Convention 1963: The Vienna Convention on Consular Relations of 1963 is an international treaty that defines a framework for consular relations between sovereign states. The convention says that sending State may with the prior consent of the receiving State and at the request of a third State not represented in the receiving State undertake the temporary protection of the interests of the third State and of its nationals. Source :- Indian Express
CURRENCY MANIPULATOR Context : The United States removed the currency manipulator label it imposed on China last summer, in a sign of easing tensions between the economic powers after nearly two years of conflict.
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Background : The US officially named China a currency manipulator in August last year when trade tensions were high between Beijing and Washington. President Donald Trump has repeatedly accused China of allowing the value of the yuan to fall, making Chinese goods cheaper.
Currency manipulator: Currency manipulation happens when governments try to artificially tweak the exchange rate to gain an unfair advantage in trade. US defines currency manipulation as when countries deliberately influence the exchange rate between their currency and the US dollar to gain unfair competitive advantage in international trade. Criteria for designation as a currency manipulator: The US Treasury has established three criteria for currency manipulator which are:
A significant bilateral trade surplus with the US is one that is at least $20 billion. A material current account surplus is one that is at least 3% of GDP. A persistent, one-sided intervention reflected in repeated net purchases of foreign currency and total
at least 2% of an economy‘s GDP over a year. Implications for destination as a currency manipulator: Once a country is designated as a currency manipulator by the U.S., the next step taken by the US government is to seek negotiations with the government accused of manipulation.
Source :- Economic Times IRAN WILL PULL OUT OF NPT
Context : Iran has warned to withdraw from the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) if the European Nations refer the dispute over its atomic programme to the United Nation Security Council.
Background : Iran had signed the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPoA) with US, UK, France, Germany, Russia and China in 2015 that had offered it access to global trade in return for accepting curbs to its atomic program. In 2018, the US unilaterally pulled out the pact and reimposed sanctions on Iran. Recently, the top Iranian general Qassem Soleimani (the commander of the Al-Quds Force of Iran‘s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, IRGC) was assassinated by the US during his visit to Iraq. This has escalated tensions in the international arena. Amid rising tensions, Britain, France and Germany declared that Iran was violating the 2015 pact and have launched a dispute mechanism that could eventually see the matter referred back to the Security Council and the reimposition of U.N. sanctions.
Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) : The NPT is an international treaty whose objective is to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons
and weapons technology, to foster the peaceful uses of nuclear energy, and to further the goal of disarmament. The treaty was signed in 1968 and entered into force in 1970. Presently, it has 190 member states. It requires countries to give up any present or future plans to build nuclear weapons in return for access to peaceful uses of nuclear energy. It represents the only binding commitment in a multilateral treaty to the goal of disarmament by the nuclear-weapon States. Nuclear-weapon states parties under the NPT are defined as those that manufactured and exploded a nuclear weapon or other nuclear explosive devices before January 1, 1967.
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India‟s Stand on NPT :
India is one of the only five countries that either did not sign the NPT or signed but withdrew
later, thus becoming part of a list that includes Pakistan, Israel, North Korea, and South Sudan.
India always considered the NPT as discriminatory and had refused to sign it. India has opposed the international treaties aimed at non-proliferation since they were selectively applicable to the non-nuclear powers and legitimised the monopoly of the five nuclear weapons
powers.
Source;- The Hindu
GS PAPER - 02 INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS - India and its neighborhood- relations.
NEIGHBOURHOOD FIRST Context : Prime Minister Narendra Modi called up leaders of Bangladesh, Bhutan, the Maldives, Nepal and Sri Lanka and conveyed India‘s commitment to the principle of ―Neighbourhood First‖. More in the news : PM Modi conveyed his greetings to the leaders and discussed the upcoming regional interactions.
The talks hint at India‘s pursuit of a regional arrangement without the participation of Pakistan. The PM emphasised India‘s commitment to the ‗neighbourhood first‘ policy and the vision of shared peace, security, prosperity and progress for all of India‘s friends and partners in the region.
India‘s ‗neighbourhood first‘ policy was adopted soon after Mr. Modi took charge in May 2014 which led to several key regional agreements including the Land Boundary Agreement with Bangladesh.
Neighborhood First Policy :
It is aimed at pursuing vigorous regional diplomacy by engaging with neighbouring Nations and building political connectivity through dialogue. Deepening and strengthening the bilateral relations with the neighbours is an important feature of India‘s neighbouhood first policy. For example, an unprecedented diplomatic outreach was made by the Prime Minister of India in the swearing in ceremony. When he invited the heads of government of the neighbours including Pakistan. The day after swearing in ceremony the PM held bilateral meetings with the leaders of the neighbouring countries and vowed to work towards making such a strong regional block
INDIA‟S NEIGHBOURHOOD FIRST POLICY HAS 4 ASPECTS : Willingness to give political and diplomatic priority to its immediate neighbours and Indian ocean Island States.
Providing them assistance and support in any and every form when required. This is evident when India became the first responder after Nepal earthquake and provided considerable assistance both in terms of monetary help and physical assistance through National
Disaster Response Force(NDRF). Develop greater connectivity and deepening integration with neighbours. Promote a model of India led regionalism with which its neighbours are comfortable
Source :- The Hindu KALAPANI BORDER ISSUE Context :
Ministry of External Affairs has said that India will resolve the Kalapani border issue through dialogue. Kalapani: Kalapani is a valley that is administered by India as a part of the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand. It is
situated on the Kailash Mansarovar route. Since the Indo-China war of 1962, the Kalapani is controlled by India‘s Indo-Tibetan Border Police. 55
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However, Nepal claims Kalapani as an integral part of their territory. It claims that the river located towards the west of the territory is the main Kali river and thus it falls in Nepal. On the other hand, India claims that there is a ridgeline towards the east of the Kalapani territory and hence includes it in the Indian Union. Dispute : The Treaty of Sugauli was signed by the Kingdom of Nepal and British India (after Anglo-Nepalese War) in 1816 located the Kali River as Nepal‘s western boundary with India.
However, the discrepancy in locating the source of the river led to boundary disputes between India and Nepal with each country producing maps supporting their own claims. Present Situation : The Prime Ministers of both the countries had discussed the issue in 2000 with Indian PM assuring Nepal
that India would not occupy even an inch of Nepal. The Foreign secretaries of both countries have been assigned the responsibility to resolve the remaining border-related issues between India and Nepal.
Source :- The Hindu ASHUGANJ-AKHAURA ROAD Context: India and Bangladesh has signed an agreement to upgrade the 50 km long road between Ashuganj and Akhaura in Bangladesh into a 4-lane highway. Ashuganj - Akaura Road Project :
The project is part of the $2 billion line of credit extended by India to Bangladesh in 2016. It will boost connectivity between Bangladesh and North-eastern part of India which will also facilitate sub-regional connectivity among South and South-east Asian countries.
Source:- AIR BENGALURU, FOUR OTHER INDIAN CITIES IN WORLD'S WORST TRAFFIC LIST Context : TomTom, the Netherlands-based global provider of navigation, traffic and map products has released the Traffic Index 2019.
Traffic Index Report : The index uses location technology to collect traffic information and has been publishing city
rankings for nine years. It has covered 416 cities across 57 countries. For this study, congestion has been defined in terms of the additional time taken to reach a destination as opposed to when the road would have been clear of traffic.
Key Highlights :
Global cities featured among the top 10 include Manila from The Philippines, Bogota from Colombia, Moscow from Russia; Lima from Peru, Istanbul from Turkey, and Jakarta from Indonesia.
Manila was on the second spot with marginal difference.
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Bengaluru was ranked as the world‘s most traffic congested city with drivers expecting to spend an average of 71% extra travel time stuck in traffic. According to the report, Bengalureans driving during peak hours, spend an extra 243 hours, that is 10 days, three hours in traffic each year. Apart from Bengaluru, three other Indian cities are in the top 10 of the traffic index. These include Mumbai (65%), Pune (59%) and New Delhi (56%) at the fourth, fifth and eight position, respectively. Source:- Livemint
INS SUMEDHA Context :
INS Sumedha which is presently on Anti-Piracy Patrol in Gulf of Aden, came to the rescue of the stranded vessel near Somali Coast. INS Sumedha:
INS Sumedha was commissioned into the Indian Navy in 2014.The ship has been designed and built by Goa Shipyard Limited. Sumedha is the third ship of the indigenous Naval Offshore Patrol Vessel (NOPV) Project to be inducted into the Indian Navy. The induction of INS Sumedha is aimed at meeting the increasing ocean surveillance and patrolling requirements of the Indian Navy. The ship has a weapon and sensor systems, latest navigational and early warning radar, chaff launching for self-protection and an integrated ESM system to undertake all assigned missions.
Gulf of Aden:
The Gulf of Aden is located in the Middle East with Yemen to the north, Somalia to the south and the Arabian Sea to the east. It is connected to the Red Sea by the Bab el Mandeb strait. The Strait of Bab el-Mandeb is a chokepoint between the horn of Africa and the Middle East. It is located between Yemen, Djibouti and Eritrea and connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and the Arabian Sea. Up to 30,000 ships pass through the Gulf of Aden each year heading to and from the Suez Canal. However, Piracy has been predominant in the seas of Somalia and the Gulf of Aden between 2005 and 2012.
Source :- Business standard INDIA-PAK. TRADE FREEZE Context :
The Bureau of Research on Industry and Economic Fundamentals (BRIEF) has released a report highlighting the impact of trade shutdown between India and Pakistan on people across borders. 57
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The report is called “Unilateral Decisions, Bilateral Losses”. Background : Following the Pulwama attack, India imposed economic sanctions on Pakistan which curbed the bilateral trade between the two neighbouring countries. There has been the shutdown of trade between India and Pakistan across the Wagah-Attari border and the Line of Control (LoC) Salamabad-Chakhan da Bagh routes. The cancellation of the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) status to Pakistan and the trade routes‘ closure, was followed by Pakistan‘s counter-measures, including an airspace ban and suspension of trade relations.
Impact : According to the report, the measures and countermeasures have led to a decline in the relatively meagre bilateral trade of $2.56 billion in 2018-19 dropping to $547.22 million (April-August 2019).
It has resulted in losses in billions of dollars and hundreds of job days affecting the livelihood opportunities of the locals. Many families and roughly 50,000 people, in Punjab and nearly 900 families in Kashmir have been
directly affected by the shutdown of trade between India and Pakistan. The affected groups comprise of traders, custom house agents, truck drivers and helpers, those working at tyre and mechanic stores, local dhabas and motels, who are more vulnerable to economic hardships and
poverty. Way Forward : The governments at the Centre and in Punjab and Jammu Kashmir should consider compensating the affected people for the losses as a short term measure. In the longer run, there is the need to find alternative trading markets internally so that those affected are not put out of business permanently. Source :- The Hindu
GS PAPER - 02 INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS - Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India's interests
INDIA AND MONGOLIA Cont ext : The Union Cabinet, has given its approval for an Agreement between Government of the Republic of
India and Government of Mongolia on Cooperation in the Exploration and Uses of Outer Space for Peaceful and Civilian Purposes. More about the agreement :
This Agreement shall enable pursuing the following potential interest areas of cooperation: Space science, technology and applications including remote sensing of the earth. Satellite communication and satellite based navigation Space science and planetary exploration Use of spacecraft and space systems and ground system Application of space technology The signed Agreement will provide impetus to explore newer research activities and application possibilities in the field of remote sensing of the earth; satellite communication; satellite navigation; space science and exploration of outer space. Impact : The signed Agreement will provide impetus to explore newer research activities and application possibilities in the field of remote sensing of the earth; satellite communication; satellite navigation; space science and exploration of outer space. Source :- PIB
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INDIA AND SWEDEN Context : Cabinet approves Memorandum of Understanding between India and Sweden on cooperation in Polar Science. Background : India and Sweden are both signatories to the Antarctic Treaty and to the Protocol to the Antarctic Treaty on Environmental Protection.
Sweden as one of the eight ―Arctic States‖ is one of the Member States in the Arctic Council whereas India has the Observer Status in the Arctic Council.
Arctic Council: The Arctic Council is the leading intergovernmental forum promoting cooperation,
coordination and interaction among the Arctic States, Arctic indigenous communities and other Arctic inhabitants on common Arctic issues, in particular on issues of sustainable development and environmental protection in the Arctic.
8 Arctic States: Canada, the Kingdom of Denmark (including Greenland and the Faroe Islands), Finland, Iceland, Norway, Russia, Sweden and the United States.
Sweden has a vigorous scientific program in the Polar Regions, both in Arctic and Antarctic. India likewise, has sustained scientific research programs in both the Polar Regions as well as in the oceanic realm.
Antarctic Treaty :
This Treaty was the first arms control agreement established during the Cold War. It entered into force in 1961 (signed in 1960), and at present, there are 54 parties to it. India became a signatory to it in 1983.
The treaty sets aside Antarctica as a scientific preserve, establishes freedom of scientific investigation, and bans military activity on the continent. For the purposes of the treaty system, Antarctica is defined as all of the land and ice shelves south of 60°S latitude. Antarctica is the only continent without a native human population. All human activities on Antarctica are regulated by this Treaty. Important provisions of the Treaty: Antarctica shall be used only for peaceful purposes. There shall be freedom of scientific investigation. Scientific observations and results shall be exchanged and made freely available.
India‟s research stations in Antarctica: Dakshin Gangotri: First research station, now used as a supply base. Maitri Bharati
Source :- PIB HORMUZ PEACE INITIATIVE
Context : India has recently attended the Hormuz Peace Initiative that was held in Tehran, Iran. Hormuz Peace initiative : The initiative was organized by Iran. It was attended by leading trade partners of Iran namely China, Oman, India and Afghanistan. It aims at stabilizing one of the world‘s busiest shipping lane, the Strait of Hormuz in the backdrop of US- Iran tensions.
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The initiative reviewed the developments in the Persian Gulf region and evaluated the regional cooperation plans under the ‗Hormuz Peace Endeavor‟ (HOPE).
Hormuz Peace Endeavor : The HOPE was proposed by Iranian President at UN General Assembly meeting in September,2019.
It aimed at enhancing solidarity, mutual understanding as well as peaceful and friendly relations among countries in the region in order to guarantee the territorial integrity and political independence of regional states.
Strait of Hormuz: The Strait of Hormuz lies between Oman and Iran. It links the Persian Gulf north of it with the Gulf of Oman to the south and the Arabian Sea beyond. On the north coast lies Iran and on the south coast of the United Arab Emirates and Musandam, an
exclave of Oman. It is 21 miles (33 km) wide at its narrowest point, with the shipping lane just two miles (three km) wide in either direction.
It is considered as the world‘s most important oil artery.
Almost a fifth of the world‘s oil passes through the Strait. According to data from analytics firm Vortexa some 17.2 million barrels per day (bpd) pass through it
Source :- Economic Times ROHINGYA GENOCIDE Context :
The International Court of Justice(ICJ) has unanimously ordered Myanmar to take all measures within its power to prevent genocide of Rohingyas in Myanmar. Rohingya crisis:
Rohingya are an ethnic group largely comprising Muslims who predominantly live in the Western Myanmar province of Rakhine. They have their own language and culture and say they are descendants of Arab traders and other groups
who have been in the region for generations. But the government of Myanmar denies the Rohingya citizenship and even excluded them from the 2014 census refusing to recognise them as a people. It sees them as illegal immigrants from Bangladesh.
Hence, lakhs of Rohingyas have fled to neighbouring countries like Bangladesh and India after facing religious and ethnical persecution in Myanmar. This has led to a historic migration crisis and a large humanitarian crisis. What did the Court ordered? The judges have voted unanimously to order Myanmar to take all measures within its power to prevent genocide of Rohingyas. These measures include the prevention of killing, and causing serious bodily or mental harm to members of the group as well as preserving evidence of possible genocide that has already occurred. 60
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The measures are binding and not subject to appeal but the court has no means of enforcing them.
International Court Justice : The International Court of Justice(ICJ) was established in 1945 by the United Nations charter. It is the principal judicial organ of the United Nations situated at the Peace Palace in The Hague
(Netherlands). The ICJ has two primary functions to settle legal disputes submitted by States in accordance with established international laws and to act as an advisory board on issues submitted to it by authorized international organizations. Structure : It is composed of 15 judges elected to nine-year terms of office by the United Nations General Assembly and the Security Council. In order to be elected, a candidate must receive an absolute majority of the votes in both UN bodies. The 15 judges of the Court are distributed in the following regions
Three from Africa Two from Latin America and Caribbean Three from Asia
Five from Western Europe and other states and Two from Eastern Europe. Further, to ensure a measure of continuity, one third of the Court is elected every three years and Judges are eligible for re-election.
Source:- Hindu Business Line INDIA, TUNISIA AND PAPUA NEW GUINEA
Context : The Union Cabinet has given its approval for the proposal of the Legislative Department for allowing the Election Commission to enter into Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) with the Independent High Authority for Elections of Tunisia (ISIE) and the Papua New Guinea Electoral Commission(PNGEC) for elections for cooperation in the field of electoral management and administration. Background : The Election Commission has been participating in promoting cooperation in the field of election matters and electoral processes across the world with certain foreign countries and agencies by adopting the mode of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by the concerned parties. The Election Commission, a constitutional body, conducts the largest electoral exercise in the world. It is the responsibility of the Election Commission to organise free and fair elections in the country of about 85 crore voters with diverse socio-political and economic backgrounds. In recent years, the role being played by the Election Commission ensures greater participation of people in political affairs. India, today, is considered as the world's 'largest' democratic country. The success of democracy in India has attracted the attention of almost every political system around the world. The Election Commission forwarded a proposal to the Ministry of Law and Justice, Legislative Department relating to signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) by it with the Election Commission of Maldives on cooperation in the field of electoral management and administration. Impact :
The MOUs would promote bilateral cooperation, aimed at building technical assistance/ capacity support for the Independent High Authority for Elections of Tunisia (ISIE) and the Papua New Guinea Electoral Commission(PNGEC) for elections for cooperation in the field of electoral management and
administration, envisaging cooperation in the field of electoral management and administration and
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providing a leg-up to such bodies in conducting elections in their respective countries. This would also result in bolstering India's international relations. Source:- PIB MAHATMA GANDHI CONVENTION CENTRE IN NIGER Context :
India has opened its first Mahatma Gandhi International convention centre(MGICC) in Niger. Mahatma Gandhi convention centre: The Mahatma Gandhi Convention Centre is the first centre to be established in Africa by India to honour
Mahatma Gandhi. The convention centre has been designed to witness high-level and wide-ranging participation from African Union member states and other high-level conventions. Besides Niger, convention centres will also be set up by India in eight other African nations — Uganda, Zambia, Malawi, Gambia, Burkina Faso, Togo, Gabon and Libera upon request by these countries.
Niger : Niger is a landlocked western African country.The capital is Niamey. The country takes its name from the Niger River, which flows through the southwestern part of its territory.
India and Niger relations have expanded significantly in recent years. India has provided Lines of Credit worth $96 million to Niger for projects in transport, electrification, solar energy and potable drinking water
India has also extended $15 million grant assistance to Niger in support of organizing the African Union (AU) summit in July,2019.
Source:- Business Standard RECIPROCATING TERRITORY -UAE Context : Recently, the Ministry of Law and Justice issued an Extraordinary Gazette Notification, declaring the United Arab Emirates to be a ―reciprocating territory‖ under Section 44A of the Civil Procedure Code, 1908. The notification also declared a list of courts in the UAE to be ―superior Courts‖ under the same section. What is a „reciprocating territory‟ and what are superior courts?
Reciprocating territory means that decrees passed by courts in the UAE can now be executed in India as if they were passed by Indian civil courts. The mechanism for conferring such a status to foreign civil decrees has been outlined in Section 44A of the CPC. Other countries that have been declared to be reciprocating territories are: United Kingdom, Singapore, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Trinidad & Tobago, New Zealand, the Cook Islands (including Niue) and the Trust Territories of Western Samoa, Hong Kong, Papua New Guinea, Fiji, Aden.
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Section 44 of the CPC : Section 44A Civil Procedure Code,1908 provides the law on the subject of execution of decrees of Courts in India by foreign Courts and vice versa. It provides that an order passed by a superior Court in any reciprocating territory can be executed in India by filing a certified copy of the decree in a District Court which will treat the decree as if it has been passed by itself. However, the scope of the Section is restricted to decrees for payment of money not being sums payable in respect of taxes or other charges of a like nature or in respect of a fine or other penalty.
Significance : The decision is believed to help bring down the time required for executing decrees between the two countries.
Indian expatriates in the UAE would no longer be able to seek safe haven in their home country if they are convicted in a civil case in the UAE. Source:- Indian Express
OSLO PEACE ACCORD Context : Palestine has threatened to withdraw from key provisions of the Oslo Accords if the US announces its
Middle East Peace Plan. Oslo Accord: The Oslo Accords are a series of agreements signed between the State of Israel and the Palestine
Liberation Organization(PLO) in the 1990s. The accord meant to effectively bring the Israeli-Palestinian conflict to its end by means of territorial concessions and facilitating the creation of the Palestinian Authority.
Oslo accord I(1993): It is formally known as the Declaration of Principles(DOP). The pact established a timetable for the Middle East peace process.
It planned for an interim Palestinian government in Gaza and Jericho in the West Bank. Oslo accord II(1995): The accord called for Israel to withdraw from Jericho and Gaza and eventually the West Bank. Five years of limited autonomy for Palestinians in those areas. Election of Palestinian Legislative Council within nine months.
Establishment of a Palestinian police force. The question of Jerusalem was left undecided. Source:- The Hindu GANGA -VOLGA DIALOGUE OF CIVILIZATIONS
Context : Eminent scholars from India and Russia participated in the first Ganga-Volga Dialogue of Civilizations. Ganga -Volga Dialogue: The Ganga Volga Dialogue was conceptualized during 2018 India Russia Summit between Russian
President and Indian Prime Minister. The dialogue was organised by the Ministry of External Affairs in collaboration with Dr.Syama Prasad Mookerjee Research Foundation.
The objective of the dialogue was to provide a platform for enhancing the special and privileged strategic partnership between India and Russia. Theme of the dialogue: Connectivity
Key proposals of the Dialogue : Impact of rapidly changing international situation
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Ways of implementation of decisions taken in India-Russia Summit held in September 2019 at Vladivostok. Development of economic activities in the riverine systems of Ganga and Volga. Source:- Business Standard
GS PAPER - 02 INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS- Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate.
WORLD ECONOMIC FORUM 2020 Context : Union Minister of Commerce and Industry & Railways, Piyush Goyal, will lead the Indian delegation to the 50th World Economic Forum (WEF) at Davos. Issues to be discussed at WEF 2020: To address the urgent climate and environmental challenges that are harming our ecology and economy To transform industries to achieve a more sustainable and inclusive business models as new political, economic, and societal priorities change trade and consumption patterns To govern the technologies driving the fourth industrial revolution so they benefit business and society, while minimizing their risks to them To adapt to the demographic, social, and technological trends reshaping education, employment, and entrepreneurship. World Economic Forum : The World Economic Forum is the International Organization for Public-Private Cooperation.
The Forum engages the foremost political, business, cultural and other leaders of society to shape global, regional and industry agendas. It was established in 1971 as a not-for-profit foundation and is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland.
It is independent, impartial and not tied to any special interests. The Forum strives in all its efforts to demonstrate entrepreneurship in the global public interest while upholding the highest standards of governance.
Reports published by WEF : Global Competitiveness Report (GCR) Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report
Global Information Technology Report Source :- PIB UN COMMISSION ON INTERNATIONAL TRADE LAW(UNCITRAL) Context : Recently, the Government of India has announced that the International Arbitration Tribunal has dismissed all claims against India in entirety in relation to cancellation of Letters of Intent for providing 2G services. Issue : The arbitration arose against India due to cancellation of issuance of telecom licenses to provide 2G services in five telecommunications circles by Russian and Cyprus companies due to India‘s essential security interests. The verdict was pronounced by the International Arbitration Tribunal constituted in accordance with the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law(UNCITRAL) Arbitration Rules, 1976.
The proceedings were administered by the Permanent Court of Arbitration(PCA).
UNCITRAL: The United Nations Commission on International Trade Law(UNCITRAL) was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1966. It is the core legal body of the United Nations system in the field of international trade law. It is responsible for helping to facilitate international trade and investment.
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The Commission carries out its work at annual sessions which are held in alternate years at United
Nations Headquarters in New York and at the Vienna International Centre at Vienna.
UNCITRAL‘s original membership comprised 29 states and was expanded to 60 in 2004.The
membership is representative of the various geographic regions and the principal economic and legal systems of the world.
Permanent Court of Arbitration(PCA): PCA is a permanent intergovernmental organization established by treaty at the First Hague Peace
Conference, Netherland in 1899. It is dedicated to serve the international community in the field of dispute resolution and to facilitate arbitration and other forms of dispute resolution between States.
The PCA has a Financial Assistance Fund which aims at helping developing countries meet part of the costs involved in international arbitration or other means of dispute settlement. It has a three-part organizational structure consisting of Administrative Council that oversees its policies and budgets panel of independent potential arbitrators known as the Members of the Court and its Secretariat known as the International Bureau headed by the Secretary-General.
Source:- PIB; The Hindu
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GS-PAPER-III
GS PAPER - 03 ECONOMY - growth, development and employment.
CURRENT ACCOUNT DEFICIT Context : According to Reserve Bank of India data, India‘s current account deficit (CAD) has narrowed to 0.9% of GDP($ 6.3 billion). Key facts and Data‟s : The contraction in the current account deficit(CAD) was primarily on account of a lower trade deficit at USD 38.1 billion as compared to USD $50 billion a year ago. The private transfer receipts mainly representing remittances by Indians employed overseas has increased to $ 21.9 billion increasing by 5.2% from their level a year ago. However, economists have claimed that the improvement in current account deficit was not sustainable. This is because the trade deficit is lower primarily because imports have fallen at a faster rate than exports due to weak manufacturing activity and lower imports of raw materials and capital goods.
Current Account Deficit: The current account measures the flow of goods, services and investments into and out of the country. There is a deficit in Current Account if the value of the goods and services imported exceeds the value of those exported.
Source :- Business Standard WORLD'S FASTEST-GROWING CITIES
Context : The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) has released a survey on the world‘s fastest-growing urban areas in the World.
More about the survey : The survey was based on the United Nations(UN) Populations data. The survey has defined urban area as
All places with a municipality, corporation, cantonment board among others Areas with a minimum population of 5,000 65
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Areas where at least 75% male working population are engaged in non-agriculture work and Areas with a population density of 400 persons/sq.km. Key Highlights : The other cities in the top 10 list were three cities from China, one each from Nigeria, Oman, UAE and Vietnam.
Indian Cities : Malappuram, Kozhikode and Kollam were the only three cities to make it to the top 10 of the world's fastest-growing cities.
Malappuram was ranked No. 1 in the world rankings with a 44.1 per cent change between 2015 and 2020. While Kozhikode was ranked fourth with 34.5 per cent change and Kollam was at number 10
with 31.1 per cent Other Indian cities that made the list were Thrissur in Kerala at 13th position, Gujarat's Surat at 26, while and Tamil Nadu's Tiruppur is at 30. Source :- Livemint WORLD SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT SUMMIT(WSDS)
Context : The World Sustainable Development Summit(WSDS) has started at Habitat Centre,New Delhi. World Sustainable Development Summit(WSDS) :
The World Sustainable Development Summit is an annual event organized by The Energy and Resources Institute(TERI) since 2001. The summit was earlier known as Delhi Sustainable Development Summit.
The summit brings together Nobel laureates, political leaders among others on a common platform to deliberate on issues related to sustainable development and climate change. Theme for 2020 summit- Towards 2030: Making the Decade Count.
TERI: The Energy and Resources Institute(TERI) is a non-profit research institute established in 1974.
It conducts research work in the fields of energy, environment and sustainable development for India and the Global South. Source:- The Hindu
ASPIRATIONAL DISTRICT Context : NITI Aayog has released the ranking of Aspirational Districts of the country for the month of December
2019. Aspirational District Ranking : The rankings took into account incremental progress made by over 112 aspirational districts across six
developmental areas in December 2019. The six developmental areas are Health and nutrition, education, agriculture and water resources, financial inclusion, skill development and basic infrastructure. Key Highlights : Chandauli district in Uttar Pradesh has topped the list of aspirational districts. Balangir(Odisha) and YSR(Andhra Pradesh) have been placed at the second and third positions respectively. Sahibganj (Jharkhand) has been ranked at the fourth spot and Hailakandi(Assam) at the fifth place.
Aspirational districts programme: The Aspirational districts programme was launched in 2018.It is coordinated by the Niti Aayog with support from Central Ministries and the State Governments.
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Aim:
To transform districts that have shown relatively lesser progress in key social areas and have
emerged as pockets of under-development.
The broad contours of the programme are Convergence (of Central & State Schemes), Collaboration (of Central, State level ‗Prabhari‘ Officers & District Collectors) and Competition among districts driven by a Mass Movement or a Jan Andolan.
Source:- PIB
GS PAPER - 03 ECONOMY - Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc. NATIO NAL INFRASTRUCTURE PLAN Context : Finance Minister has released a report of task force on National Infrastructure on Pipeline(NIP) 2019- 2025. Background : Earlier, the Prime Minister in his Independence Day speech 2019 had highlighted that Rs.100 lakh crore would be invested on infrastructure over the next 5 years. The emphasis would be on ease of living: safe drinking water, access to clean and affordable
energy, healthcare for all, modern railway stations, airports, bus terminals and world-class educational institutes. National Infrastructure on Pipeline(NIP) Task force:
Task Force was constituted to draw up the National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP) for each of the years from financial years 2019-20 to 2024-25. The Task Force has been chaired by the Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance.
The task force has prepared a roadmap as it is estimated that India would need to spend $4.5 trillion on infrastructure by 2030 to sustain its growth rate. Hence, the endeavour of the NIP is to make this happen in an efficient manner.
Key Highlights :
The task force unveiled the National Infrastructure Pipeline(NIP) with projects worth Rs.102-lakh crore. The private companies will account for 22%-25% of the investments and the balance will come from the Centre and the states in equal proportions. The projects have been classified under two broad categories namely economic infrastructure and social infrastructure for both ease of doing business and ease of living.
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Under the projects, energy sectors make up the lion‘s share of 24%, followed by roads(19%), urban development(16%) and the railways (13%). The shares of rural and social infrastructure projects which includes health, education and drinking water is 8% and 3% respectively. Source :- Economic Times
OIL DEMAND GROWTH Context : The International Energy Agency(IEA) has released the India‘s Energy Policy Report.
India‟s Energy Policy Report : The report has been prepared by the International Energy Agency(IEA) in collaboration with NITI Aayog.
The report aims to assist the government in meeting its energy policy objectives by setting out a range of recommendations in each area with a focus on energy system transformation, energy security and energy affordability.
Key Highlights : Global Oil Consumption: India ranks third in terms of global oil consumption after China and the United States. It ships over 80% of its oil needs of which 65% is from West Asia through the Strait of Hormuz. The oil demand of India will overtake China by mid-2020.The Oil demand will reach 6 million barrels per day by 2024.It was 4.4 million barrels per day in 2017. Hence, it will make India more vulnerable to supply disruption in the middle east. Refinery investments: India is the fourth largest oil refiner in the world. The products mainly include diesel and gasoline. The report said that India‘s plan of increasing its refining capacity to 8 million barrels per day by
2025 will make India an attractive market for investment in the refinery sector. Strategic reserves: The IEA also coordinates release of strategic petroleum reserves(SPR) among developed
countries in times of emergency. The report has insisted that India should expand its strategic oil reserves. Source :- Hindu Business Line WINGS INDIA 2020 Context : Asia‘s largest Civil Aviation platform- ‗Wings India 2020‘ will be held at Hyderabad in March 2020. Wings India 2020 : Wings India 2020 is a flagship event of Indian Civil Aviation industry. It is also Asia‘s largest and most popular gathering in the industry. Organized by Ministry of Civil Aviation, Govt. of India, Airports Authority of India (AAI) and Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI).
It is a four-day event themed: ―Flying for All‘‘. The international platform focuses on new business acquisition, investments, policy formation and regional connectivity in civil aviation industry.
Source :- PIB REVAMP OF SEZ POLICY Context :
Commerce and Industry & Railways Minister chaired a meeting to review the remaining recommendations of the Baba Kalyani report on Special Economic Zone (SEZ) policy of India. Key Recommendations which compiled : Review of specific exclusions proposed in Net Foreign Exchange (NFE) computation in light of Make in India initiative. 68
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Sharing of duty exempted assets/ infrastructure between units to be allowed against specific approval. Formalization of the de-notification process for enclaves and delinking its present mandatory usage for SEZs purpose only. Support to servicification (transformation of existing processes into one or more discrete services) of the manufacturing zone. Allowing manufacturing enabling services companies. Broad-banding definition of services/allowing multiple services to come together. Flexibility to enter into a long term lease agreement with stakeholders in Zones in line with the State policies. The application for constructing minimum built-up area by Developer or Co-developer beyond a period of ten years from the date of notification of the SEZ on merits of each case. Baba Kalyani report: The Baba Kalyani led committee was constituted by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry to study the existing SEZ policy of India and had submitted its recommendations in November 2018.
The objectives of the committee were to: Evaluate the SEZ policy and make it WTO compatible. Suggest measures for maximizing utilization of vacant land in SEZs.
Suggest changes in the SEZ policy based on international experience. Merge the SEZ policy with other Government schemes like coastal economic zones, Delhi- Mumbai industrial corridor, national industrial manufacturing zones and food and textile parks.
Source :- PIB INDIA'S ENERGY POLICIES Context : In-depth Review of India‘s Energy Policies report by the International Energy Agency (IEA) has been launched. Key Findings : The Report captures well the progress made in achieving sustainable energy for all, as reflected in the UN Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG 7).
It also highlights the persisting challenges to be focused in the coming days. The IEA report congratulates the Indian government on its outstanding achievements in extending citizens‘ access to electricity, affordable efficient lighting and clean cooking in record time through
historic schemes like SAUBHAGYA, UJALA and UJJWALA, while pursuing energy market reforms and the swift deployment of renewable technologies. The report notes that India is moving towards a gas-based economy.
The report highlights the strong growth of renewables in India, which now accounts for almost 23% of the country‘s total installed capacity. The review also found that energy efficiency improvements in India avoided 15% of additional energy
demand, oil and gas imports, and air pollution as well as 300 million tonnes of CO2 emissions between 2000 and 2018. The country‘s demand for energy is set to double by 2040, and its electricity demand may triple, according to the IEA report. Indian oil consumption is expected to grow faster than that of any other major economy. This makes further improving energy security a key priority for India‘s economy, says the IEA. Way Forward : India is working to build City Gas Distribution Network covering more than 400 districts of the country. This network will serve 72% of India‘s population with cleaner and affordable gas over more than 50 % of India‘s geography. India‘s transformation to a gas-based economy and developing indigenously produced biofuels, apart from renewable energy and energy efficiency measures, can potentially achieve the much-needed carbon reductions. 69
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Given India‘s development imperative, the thrust must be on building oil and gas infrastructure to ensure access to affordable energy to all the citizens. IEA‘s recommendation for reinforcement of India‘s oil emergency response policy must be taken cognisance of. Energy has become an essential commodity in India‘s bilateral trade engagements with several key trading partners and in positioning India as an important strategic player in the global energy landscape. Enhancing international engagement on global oil security issues must be an active goal.
India must work towards its goal to achieve 20% ethanol blending in petrol and 5% bio-diesel in diesel by 2030. Source :- PIB STATE ENERGY EFFICIENCY INDEX 2019
Context : The government has released the „State Energy Efficiency Index 2019‟.
State Energy Efficiency Index : The first ―State Energy Efficiency Preparedness Index 2018‖, was launched on August 1, 2018.
The index is developed by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) in association with Alliance for an Energy-Efficient Economy (AEEE). The 2019 index has included new indicators like the adoption of Energy Conservation Building
Code (ECBC) 2017, energy efficiency in MSME clusters, etc. Data collection: The required data were collected from the concerned state departments such as DISCOMs, Urban Development departments and other departments with the help of State Designated Agencies (SDAs). The Index tracks the progress of Energy Efficiency (EE) initiatives in states and union territories based on 97 significant indicators. Assessment is based on their efforts and achievements in policy and regulation, financing mechanisms, institutional capacity, adoption of energy efficiency measures and energy savings achieved. The index incorporates qualitative, quantitative and outcome-based indicators to assess energy efficiency initiatives, programs and outcomes in five distinct sectors – buildings, industry,
municipalities, transport, agriculture, and DISCOMs. The State Energy Efficiency Index categorises states as ‗Front Runner‘, ‗Achiever‘, ‗Contender‘ and ‗Aspirant‘ based on their efforts and achievements towards energy efficiency implementation.
Key Findings : Karnataka, HP, Haryana and Puducherry were the best performers.
Manipur, Jharkhand, Rajasthan and Jammu and Kashmir were the least performers. Since there isn‘t state in the ‗Front runner‘ category, it can be inferred that a lot more can be done at the state level to realise energy savings from energy efficiency.
TPES grouping helps states compare their performance and share best practices within their peer group. Significance : The index will help states contribute towards national goals on energy security and climate action by
helping drive EE policies and program implementation at the state and local level. It will track progress in managing the states‘ and India‘s energy footprint and institutionalising the data capture and monitoring of EE activities by states. Source :- PIB DEVELOPMENT SUPPORT SERVICES TO STATES (DSSS)
Context : NITI Aayog and Ladakh have signed an MoU under which NITI Aayog will support Ladakh through its initiative Development Support Services to States for Infrastructure Projects(DSSS).
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Development Support Services to States for Infrastructure projects: The Development Support Services For States(DSSS) For Infrastructure Projects is implemented by the NITI Aayog. The initiative aims to establish a Centre-State partnership model and reignite and establish a Private Public Partnership across infrastructure sectors. It was launched to de-risk projects and address key structural issues in project development and build institutional and organizational capacities.
The initiative involves providing project -level support from concept plan till financial closure to State Governments / UTs. NITI Aayog has appointed Ernst & Young LLP as its consultant to engage with states to identify a project shortlist and providing transaction management for implementing selected infrastructure projects
on the ground. Source :- PIB DEDICATED FREIGHT CORRIDOR CORPORATION OF INDIA (DFCCIL) Context : The 14th Foundation Day of Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India (DFCCIL) was celebrated in New Delhi. DFCCIL The Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Limited or DFCCIL is a business establishment operated by the Railways Ministry of the Government of India to work the dedicated freight corridors (DFCs). It engages in the planning and development, deployment of monetary resources, building, upkeep and the operation of the DFCs. DFCCIL has been assigned the status of ‗special purpose vehicle‘ by the Indian government. Objective :
To build a corridor with appropriate technology that enables Indian railways to regain its market share of freight transport by creating additional capacity and guaranteeing efficient, reliable, safe and cheaper options for mobility to its customers.
To set up Multimodal logistic parks along the DFC to provide complete transport solution to customers. To support the government‘s initiatives toward ecological sustainability by encouraging users to adopt railways as the most environment-friendly mode for their transport requirements.
Source :- PIB GS PAPER - 03 ECONOMY - Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes
RBI LAUNCHES MOBILE APP MANI Context : The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) launched a mobile app to help visually-impaired people to identify the
denomination of currency notes. Background : The Reserve Bank of India released a batch of new currency notes under the latest 'Mahatma Gandhi
Series' after demonetization in November 2016. The new currency notes were launched for different denominations such as Rs 2000, Rs 500, Rs 200, Rs 100, Rs 50, Rs 20 and Rs 10 with significant changes in colour, design and sizes.
It was reported that the visually challenged faced many issues in identifying the new currency notes. The new app aims to remove the barriers for them. MANI App : Capable of identifying the denominations of Mahatma Gandhi Series and Mahatma Gandhi (New) series banknote by checking front or reverse side/part of the note including half folded notes at various holding angles and broad range of light conditions (normal light/day light/low light/ etc.).
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Ability to identify the denomination through audio notification in Hindi/English and non-sonic mode such as vibration (suitable for those with vision and hearing impairment). After installation, the mobile application does not require internet and works in offline mode. This mobile application does not authenticate a note as being either genuine or counterfeit. Source :- The Hindu
UJALA SCHEME Context : Government of India‘s UJALA scheme and Street Lighting National Programme (SLNP) of the central
government has completed five successful years. UJALA: UJALA stands for Unnat Jyoti by Affordable LEDs for All.The scheme was launched in 2015.
Aim: It aims at promoting efficient usage of energy consumption, energy savings and efficient lighting for all.
Implementation: Electricity Distribution Company and Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL), a public sector body of Government of India is implementing the programme. As per the scheme, Electricity Distribution Company would distribute LED bulbs at subsidized rates to every grid-connected customer with a metered connection. Eligibility: Every domestic household having a metered connection from their respective Electricity Distribution Company is eligible to get the LED bulbs under the UJALA Scheme. Street Lighting National Programme(SLNP): Street Light National Programme(SLNP) was launched in 2015 to convert conventional street and domestic lights with energy efficient LED lights. Aim: It aims to replace 3.5 crore conventional street lights with energy efficient LED lights.
This replacement is expected to result in an annual energy saving of 900 crore units and a financial saving of Rs 5,500 crore. Implementation: Energy Efficiency Services Limited, a Public Energy Services Company under the administration
of Ministry of Power, Government of India (GoI) is the implementing agency for SLNP. Source :- PIB
GS PAPER - 03 ECONOMY - Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and
issues arising out of their design and implementation. ACTION PLAN FOR AGRI EXPORT POLICY Context :
To help double exports and farmer‘s income, Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) had held multiple meetings with the state governments to make State Action Plan.
More in the news : Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, Nagaland, Tamil Nadu, Assam, Punjab, and Karnataka are the eight states while others are at ―different stages of finalisation of the action plan
The ministry said that state-level monitoring committees have been formed in many of the states while cluster visits have been made by APEDA nodal officers to the product clusters
Agriculture Export Policy: The Agriculture Export Policy is framed with a focus on agriculture export oriented production, export promotion, better farmer realization and synchronization within policies and programmes of
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Government of India.
The Union Cabinet had approved the Agriculture Export Policy in 2018.
The policy aims to harness export potential of Indian agriculture through suitable policy instruments to
make India a global power in agriculture and raise farmers income. Further, the policy would also help the government in achieving the target of doubling farmers income by 2022.
Objective : To double agricultural exports from present US$ 30+ Billion to US$ 60+ Billion by 2022 and reach US$ 100 Billion in the next few years thereafter, with a stable trade policy regime. To diversify our export basket, destinations and boost high value and value added agricultural exports including focus on perishables. To promote novel, indigenous, organic, ethnic, traditional and non-traditional Agri products exports. To provide an institutional mechanism for pursuing market access, tackling barriers and deal with sanitary and phyto-sanitary issues.
To strive to double India‘s share in world agri exports by integrating with global value chain at the earliest. Enable farmers to benefit of export opportunities in overseas market.
Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) : The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) was established by the Government of India under the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority Act, 1985.
It functions under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. Functions : APEDA is mandated with the responsibility of export promotion and development of the scheduled
products . fruits, vegetables and their products; meat and meat products; poultry and poultry products; dairy products; confectionery, biscuits and bakery products; honey, jaggery and sugar products; cocoa and its products, chocolates of all kinds; alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages; cereal and cereal products; groundnuts, peanuts and walnuts, pickles, papads and chutneys; guar gum; floriculture and floriculture products; herbal and medicinal plants. APEDA has been entrusted with the responsibility to monitor import of sugar. It looks after the development of industries relating to the scheduled products for export by way of
providing financial assistance or otherwise for undertaking surveys and feasibility studies, participating through subsidy schemes. Registration of persons as exporters of the scheduled products and fixing of standards and
specifications for the scheduled products for the purpose of exports. Carrying out inspection of meat and meat products in slaughterhouses, processing plants, storage premises and improving packaging of the scheduled products.
Source :- Hindu Business Line
PRADHAN MANTRI LAGHU VYAPARI MAAN-DHAN YOJANA Context : The National Pension Scheme for Traders and Self-Employed Persons has failed to gain traction as only
about 25,000 persons have opted for the scheme as against the government's target to enroll 50 lakh by March-end. The National Pension Scheme for traders also called the Pradhan Mantri Laghu Vyapari Maan-
dhan Yojana.
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More in the news : The Government has set a target of 50 lakh enrolment by the end of March 2020.However,only 25,000 persons have applied so far. Among all states Uttar Pradesh has the highest number of registrations. Followed by Andhra Pradesh (4,781), Gujarat (2,915), Maharashtra (632), Bihar (583), Rajasthan (549), Tamil Nadu (309), Madhya Pradesh (305) and West Bengal (234). No one has so far registered in the scheme in the states of Mizoram and Lakshadweep. The experts have suggested that the entry age and the premium for the scheme should be raised to
encourage more traders to join the scheme.
Pradhan Mantri Laghu Vyapari Maan-dhan Yojana:
The National Pension Scheme for Traders and Self Employed Persons Yojana(Pradhan Mantri Laghu Vyapari Maan-dhan Yojana) is a pension scheme for shopkeepers launched in July,2019. Objective: The scheme assures a minimum monthly pension of ₹3000 per month to small shopkeepers, retail traders and self-employed people after attaining the age of 60 years. Contribution: They have to contribute to the scheme every month from the time of enrolment and till age 60 for getting the pension. The Government of India will also make a matching contribution in the subscribers‘ account. Implementation:
The Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) is the pension fund manager for the scheme. Eligibility: The scheme is available to all small shopkeepers, self-employed persons and retail traders with Goods and Services tax (GST) turnover below Rs.1.5 crore. The age limit is 18-40 years. However, the applicants should not be covered under the National Pension Scheme, Employees‘ State Insurance Scheme and the Employees‘ Provident Fund or be an Income Tax assessed.
Source :- Livemint
HALLMARKING OF GOLD JEWELLERY Context : The Department of Consumer Affairs will release the notification regarding mandatory hallmarking of Gold jewellery & artefacts in India.
Earlier, it was optional for the jewellers and thus only 40% of gold jewellery was getting hallmarked. Gold Hallmarking is a purity certification which started in 2000. More in the news :
The notification will make hallmarking of gold jewellery mandatory from January 15, 2021. The jewellers have been given one year time to register with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and clear their stocks if not hallmarked yet.
The rule is applicable only on sales by retailers and not to consumers. However, it is available for consumers who want to get their old jewellery hallmarked. Anybody found violating the provision, will have to pay a minimum fine of Rs 1 lakh or 5 times the price
of the article. The government had informed about these hallmarking norms to the World Trade Organisation (WTO), which will help exporters get to know the changes in advance in importing country like India.
India is the world‘s largest importer of gold, with annual imports of 700-800 tonne.
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Gold hallmarking :
Gold hallmarking is a purity certification of the precious metal and is voluntary in nature at present.
The BIS is already running a hallmarking scheme for gold jewellery since April 2000
and around 40 per cent of gold jewellery is being hallmarked currently. Hallmarked gold jewellery will be only in three grades – 14-carat, 18-carat and 22-carat instead of current availability of ten grades.
It will contain four marks: BIS mark, purity in carat, assay centre‘s name and jewellers‘ identification mark. 2 Principle Objective of Hallmarking : To protect the public against adulteration To obligate manufacturers to maintain legal standards of fineness/purity
Reasons for Gold Hallmarking :
The mandatory hallmarking will protect the public against lower caratage and ensure consumers do not get cheated while buying gold ornaments. It will also help to get the purity as marked on the ornaments.
It will bring in transparency and assure the consumers of quality. The new system will weed out anomalies and corruption in the system of manufacturing of jewellery. Source :- Livemint
PRODUCTS UNDER 'OTHERS' CATEGORY Context : Union Minister of Commerce & Industry has said that no imports will be allowed into the country without HSN code. Why such a move? The minister said that the free trade agreements(FTA) of India with other countries has not led to the growth of India‘s trade because of the poor quality of the products and services that get restricted with non-tariff barriers. He further elaborated on this point with the number of Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) in countries like US (8000), Brazil (3879), China (2872) and India with only 439 TBTs. Hence, he said that the manner in which India and rest of the world are looking at the concept of quality in products and services are completely different.
HSN Code: The Harmonized System is a six-digit identification code.It was introduced in 1988 by World Customs Organization(WCO).
The code is used by various countries as a basis for their Customs tariffs and for the collection of international trade statistics. The code is also called as the universal economic language for goods. It is a multipurpose international product nomenclature. Significance : Around 200 countries use the system as a basis for their customs tariffs, gathering international trade statistics, making trade policies and for monitoring goods. The system helps in harmonising of customs and trade procedures thus reducing costs in international trade. It also helps in the better reach of the product and increases its global popularity.
Source :- PIB
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ADVISORY BOARD FOR BANKING AND FINANCIAL FRAUDS Context : The Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) has released a framework for the Advisory Board for Banking and Financial Frauds. Advisory Board for Banking Frauds(ABBF): The Advisory Board for Banking frauds will be four-member board. It will be headed by former Vigilance Commissioner T M Bhasin.
It will function as the first level of examination of all large fraud cases before recommendations or references are made to the investigative agencies by the respective Public Sector Banks. The board‘s jurisdiction will be confined to those cases involving officers of General Manager level and above in the PSBs in respect of an allegation of fraud in a borrowal account.
The banks would refer all large fraud cases above Rs.50 crore to the board and on receipt of its recommendation or advice, the bank concerned would take further action in such matter. These probe agencies may take such advice into account while taking consequential action to initiate
preliminary enquiry or investigation and follow due procedure under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, the CVC said. State vigilance organisations have also been advised to adopt a similar framework or refer the matter to
the board "in the interest of harmonious and uniform application" with respect to the matters related to the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988. Source :- Business Standard SERVICE SCHEME Context : Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas & Steel Shri Dharmendra Pradhan launched a scheme of SAIL to promote Voluntary Philanthropist Activities (VPA) by its employees. SERVICE Scheme :
The scheme called ―SAIL Employee Rendering Voluntarism and Initiatives for Community Engagement (SERVICE). It will promote and facilitate philanthropist activities by the employees in a structured manner.
Under the scheme, the employees of SAIL would contribute in the areas of education, health, women empowerment and nutrition among others. SAIL SERVICE Portal :
The Minister also launched a portal for the employees to register for the scheme. The dedicated interactive ―SAIL SERVICE‖ portal for implementation of this Scheme shall act as a platform for enabling faster interaction and communication amongst the various
stakeholders. It shall eventually be developed as a repository of knowledge management in this regard.
SAIL: Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) is the largest steel-making company in India and one of the seven Maharatnas of the country‘s Central Public Sector Enterprises. The Government of India owns about 75% of SAIL‘s equity and retains voting control of the Company. It produces iron and steel at five integrated plants and three special steel plants, located principally in the eastern and central regions of India and situated close to domestic sources of raw materials.
Source:- PIB LEADERSHIP IN ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT(LEED) Context : The India chapter of the Green Business Certification Inc(GBCI) has released the list of top 10 states for LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) in India.
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Key Highlights : Maharashtra has topped the US Green Building Council‘s LEED green building certifications for the second consecutive year. Karnataka was ranked second on the list.It was followed by Haryana, Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh. Tamil Nadu, Haryana claimed the third spot The rest of the list comprised Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Telangana, Delhi, Gujarat, West Bengal and Rajasthan placed in the 4th till the 10th spot respectively. LEED: The Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) is the rating system developed for
certifying Green Buildings. The rating system has been developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC),the organization promoting sustainability through Green Buildings. The main parameters to get a LEED certificate include saving energy and water, waste management, reducing carbon footprint and focusing on the health of the building‘s occupants. Buildings that are LEED-certified create healthier spaces for people, use less energy and water, reduce air pollution, provide cleaner air indoors and save money for businesses and families.
Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment (GRIHA) : Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment (GRIHA) is India‘s own rating system jointly developed by TERI and the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Government of India. It is a rating tool that helps people to assess the performance of their building against certain nationally acceptable benchmarks. It evaluates the environmental performance of a building holistically over its entire life cycle thereby providing a definitive standard for what constitutes a green building. Source:- Economic Times
GS PAPER - 03 ECONOMY- Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment. Inclusive growth and issues arising from it. SUFAL BANGLA SCHEME Context : West Bengal Government is implementing the Sufal Bangla Scheme which have protected consumers from the spike in food inflation. Sufal Bangla : Sufal Bangla Scheme is an initiative of the Government of West Bengal. Objective : To help the farmer‘s get premium price and have rational share in consumer‘s price To supply quality produce at less retail price to the consumers and Make fruit and vegetable producer‘s retail market competitive. Key Features : The scheme involves fair-price stalls and counters across the city which allows people to procure vegetables at affordable prices. These fruits and vegetables are directly procured from the farmers without any intermediaries. This will safeguard the interests of farmers by ensuring a fair price and will also protect consumers from the spike in food inflation. The scheme is run with the assistance of National Dairy Development Board and the financial support of Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana.It is implemented by the Paschimbanga Agri Marketing Corporation Ltd. Source :- Indian Express
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FISCAL DEFICIT
Context :
Recently, former Economic Affairs secretary has claimed that the actual fiscal deficit for the last financial
year and the current one is more than a full percentage point higher than the official data. What is fiscal deficit? Fiscal Deficit is the difference between the Revenue Receipts plus Non-debt Capital Receipts (NDCR)
and the total expenditure. In other words, fiscal deficit is reflective of the total borrowing requirements of Government. Significance of fiscal deficit :
The significance of fiscal deficit is that if the deficit is too high, it implies that there is a lesser amount of money left in the market for private entrepreneurs and businesses to borrow. The lesser amount of this money will in turn leads to higher rates of interest charged on such lending.
Hence, a higher fiscal deficit means higher borrowing by the government which in turn mean higher interest rates in the economy. Currently, the high fiscal deficit and higher interest rates in India means that the efforts of the Reserve Bank of India to reduce interest rates are undone. What is the acceptable level of fiscal deficit? There is no set universal level of fiscal deficit that is considered good. In a developing economy, where private enterprises may be weak and governments may be in a better state to invest, fiscal deficit could be higher than in a developed economy. In India, the Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management(FRBM) Act requires the central government to reduce its fiscal deficit to 3 percent of GDP. In Union Budget 2019,India has set a fiscal deficit target of 3.3% of the Gross domestic product(GDP) for 2019-20. Controversy around fiscal deficit: Former Economic affairs secretary has said that the true fiscal deficit for 2018-19 is 4.7% which is more
than a full percentage point than the number claimed by Finance Minister in Budget 2019. This is because the government has been financing the expenditure through off-budget financing which are not recorded through the Consolidated Fund of India(CFI).
Source :- Indian Express WORLD ECONOMIC SITUATION AND PROSPECTS(WESP) 2020 Context : United Nations(UN) has released its World Economic Situation and Prospects(WESP) 2020.
WESP Report,2020: The report is released annually by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs(UN/DESA), the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development(UNCTAD) and the five United Nations regional commissions. The report warns about strong economic risks, deep political polarization and increasing scepticism about the benefits of multilateralism.
Key Highlights : The global economy suffered its lowest growth in a decade slipping to 2.3 per cent in 2019 due to prolonged trade disputes. However, the growth could improve to 2.5 percent in 2020.But a flare up of trade tensions, financial turmoil or an escalation of geopolitical tensions could slow down the growth to 1.8% in 2020. World‟s Fastest Growing : East Asia remains the world‘s fastest-growing region and the largest contributor to global growth.
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Poverty : Further, a prolonged weakness in global economic activity may also cause significant setbacks for sustainable development including the goals to eradicate poverty and create decent jobs for all. The report also noted that the share of the population living in extreme poverty has declined steadily and significantly over the past few decades, largely owing to successful experiences in
China and India. At the same time, pervasive inequalities and the deepening climate crisis are fueling growing discontent in many parts of the world.
The prolonged weakness in global economic activity may severely impact the implementation of Sustainable Development Goals. India Perspective :
The report lowered its GDP growth estimate for India to 5.7% from 7.6% in the financial year 2019-20. However, the UN has projected India‘s GDP growth to accelerate to 6.6 per cent in 2020-21. Further, the report has also forecasted a growth rate of 6.3% for the fiscal beginning in 2021.
The report has also said that one in five countries will see per capita income stagnate or decline this year. But India will be among the few countries where the per capita GDP growth rate could exceed 4% level in 2020. Source :- Indian Express GLOBAL SOCIAL MOBILITY INDEX Context : World Economic Forum has released its maiden Social Mobility Index.
Social Mobility: The movement in personal circumstances either ―upwards‖ or ―downwards‖ of an individual in relation to those of their parents. In absolute terms, it is the ability of a child to experience a better life than their parents. On the other hand, relative social mobility is an assessment of the impact of socio- economic background on an individual‘s outcomes in life.
Social Mobility Index:
The WEF‘s Global Social Mobility Index assesses the 82 economies on “10 pillars” spread across the following five key dimensions of social mobility: Health; Education (access, quality and equity, lifelong learning); Technology; Work (opportunities, wages, conditions); Protection and Institutions (social protection and inclusive institutions).
Key Findings : The Nordic nations hold the top five spots, led by Denmark in the first place (scoring 85 points), followed by Norway, Finland and Sweden (all above 83 points) and Iceland (82 points).
Among the G7 economies, Germany is the most socially mobile, ranking 11th with 78 points. The Global Social Mobility Index reveals that there are only a handful of nations with the right conditions to foster social mobility.
Most countries underperform in four areas: fair wages, social protection, working conditions and lifelong learning. The index also reveals that achieving higher levels of social mobility needs to be perceived as an
important element of a wider move towards a stakeholder-based model of capitalism. Looking at all economies and average income levels, those children who are born into less affluent families typically experience greater barriers to success than their more affluently born counterparts.
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Furthermore, inequalities are rising even in countries that have experienced rapid growth. In most countries, individuals from certain groups have become historically disadvantaged and poor social mobility perpetuates and exacerbates such inequalities. In turn, these types of inequalities can undermine the cohesiveness of economies and societies. India‟s Stand : The report has ranked India a lowly 76 out of the 82 countries profiled. It lists India among the five countries that stand to gain the most from a better social mobility score. It ranks 41st in lifelong learning and 53rd in working conditions. The Areas of improvement for India include social protection (76th) and fair wage distribution (79th). Source:- The Hindu WORLD ECONOMIC OUTLOOK: IMF
Context : The International Monetary Fund(IMF) has released its World Economic Outlook report. Key Highlights :
The report has reduced its global growth projection to 2.9 percent in 2019, 3.3 percent in 2020 and 3.4 percent for 2021. The global growth forecasts has been reduced due to sharper than expected slowdowns in India and other
emerging markets. But the report has said that a US-China trade deal is an expected sign that trade and manufacturing activity may soon recover. Concern : Rising geopolitical tensions between the United States and Iran could disrupt global oil supply, hurt sentiment and weaken business investment. Social unrest across many countries could disrupt activity, complicate reform efforts and weaken sentiment dragging the growth lower than projected. India‟s Stand : The report has revised downward India‘s gross domestic product (GDP) growth projection to 4.8% for the financial year 2020 (FY20) and 5.8% for FY21. The downward is attributed to the current slowdown in the country, stress in the non-bank financial sector and weak rural income growth. However, the growth is expected to pick up to 6.5 percent in FY22, supported by monetary and fiscal stimulus as well as subdued oil prices.
International Monetary Fund (IMF) : The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is an organization of 189 countries. It was established in 1945. The main goal of IMF is to ensure the stability of the international monetary system.
It also seeks to facilitate international trade, promote high employment and sustainable economic growth, and reduce poverty around the world.
Source:- Livemint GLOBAL INVESTMENT TREND MONITOR REPORT: UNCTAD Context : United Nations Conference on Trade and Development(UNCTAD) has released the Global Investment
Trend Monitor report. Key Highlights : The global foreign direct investment(FDI) remained flat in 2019 at $1.39 trillion a 1% decline from a
revised $1.41 trillion in 2018. These investments came in the backdrop of weaker macroeconomic performance and policy uncertainty for investors including trade tensions.
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United States remained the largest recipient of Foreign Direct Investment(FDI) followed by China and Singapore. South Asia recorded a 10% increase in FDI and this growth was driven by India marking a 16% increase in FDI inflows. India was also among the top 10 recipients of FDI in 2019 attracting $49 billion in inflows. Further, the report showed that cross-border Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) declined 40% in 2019 to $490 billion which is the lowest level since 2014. Way Forward : GDP growth, gross fixed capital formation and trade are projected to rise, both at the global level and, especially, in several large emerging markets.
Such an improvement in macroeconomic conditions could prompt MNEs to resume investments in productive assets, given also their easy access to cheap money, the fact that corporate profits are expected to remain solid in 2020, and hopes for waning trade tensions between the United States and China. However, significant risks persist, including high debt accumulation among emerging and developing
economies, geopolitical risks and concerns about a further shift towards protectionist policies. Source:- Hindu Business Line WORLD EMPLOYMENT AND SOCIAL OUTLOOK TRENDS 2020 (WESO) REPORT: ILO Context : The United Nations International Labour Organization(ILO) has released the World Employment and Social Outlook Trends 2020 (WESO) report.
World Employment and Social Outlook Trends : The report analyses key labour market issues, including unemployment, labour underutilisation, working poverty, income inequality, labour income share and factors that exclude people from decent work.
Key Highlights : Global Unemployment:
The number of people unemployed around the world stands at some 188 million. Some 267 million young people aged 15-24 are not in employment, education or training, and many more endure substandard working condition.
Working Poverty : Working poverty is defined as earning less than USD 3.20 per day in purchasing power parity terms. It affects more than 630 million workers or one in five of the global working population. Underemployment : Around 285 million are considered underemployed meaning they either work less than they want to or have given up searching for work or otherwise lack access to the labour market. The percentage of the global workforce who work in the informal economy are around 60%. Reasons for Rising Unemployment : Inequalities: Persisting and substantial work-related inequalities (Gender, age and geographical location) and
exclusion are preventing from finding decent work and better futures. These inequalities also limit both individual opportunity and economic growth. Global Economic Slowdown:
It is one of the major reason for not creating enough new jobs to absorb new entrants to the labour market. In addition, many African countries are experiencing a drop in real incomes and a rise in poverty.
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Rising Protectionism: A rise in trade restrictions and protectionism restricts national as well as global employment generation. Decreasing Value of Human Capital : Labour underutilisation and poor-quality jobs mean our economies and societies are missing out on the potential benefits of a huge pool of human talent. Recommendations for reducing unemployment: The report has suggested that countries should ensure that economic growth and development occurs in a
way that leads to the reduction of poverty and better working conditions. It has also recommended for structural transformation, technological upgrading and diversification in global as well as national economies.
International Labour Organisation : The International Labour Organization (ILO) was founded in 1919 to promote social justice and thereby contribute to universal and lasting peace. It is responsible for drawing up and overseeing international labour standards. It is the only tripartite United Nations agency that brings together representatives of governments, employers and workers to jointly shape policies and programmes promoting decent work for all. The six conventions of ILO which have been ratified by India are Forced Labour Convention
Abolition of Forced Labour Convention Equal Remuneration Convention Discrimination (Employment Occupation) Convention
Minimum Age Convention and Worst forms of Child Labour Convention. The other two conventions namely Freedom of Association and Protection of the Right to Organised Convention Right to Organise and Collective Bargaining Convention has not been ratified by India.
Source:- Business Standard SMART PROJECT Context : The Government of India, the Government of Maharashtra and the World Bank today signed a loan agreement of USD 210 million to the State of Maharashtra Agribusiness and Rural Transformation Project(SMART). SMART : The project has been launched by the Maharashtra Government with the assistance of World Bank. It aims to transform Rural Maharashtra through the revamp of agricultural value chains with special focus on marginal farmers. It is a significant step towards transforming the state's rural economy through sustainable agriculture and empowerment of farmers by connecting them directly to the markets and doubling agriculture exports from the state.
This project is also in line with the National Action Plan on Climate Change (2008). Objective: Support value addition in the post-harvest segments of agriculture value-chains;
Facilitate agribusiness investments through inclusive business models that provide opportunities to small farmers; Stimulate the establishment of small and medium enterprises; and
Support resilience of agricultural production systems to better manage increasing production and commercial risks associated with climate change. 82
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Significance : The project is a giant step towards transformation of rural economy and empowerment of farmers. The project unites agriculture-oriented corporates and farmers by providing them a common platform. Source:- PIB
GS PAPER - 03 ECONOMY - Major crops cropping patterns in various parts of the country, different types of irrigation and irrigation systems storage, transport and marketing of agricultural produce and issues and
related constraints ZERO BUDGET NATURAL FARMING Context :
The Andhra Pradesh Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with German firm to implement Zero Budget Natural Farming in the state. Zero Budget Natural Farming:
Zero-Budget Natural Farming(ZBNF) is a holistic alternative to the present paradigm of high-cost chemical inputs-based agriculture. ZBNF is a farming practice that believes in natural growth of crops without adding any fertilizers and pesticides or any other foriegn elements. The word Zero Budget refers to the zero net cost of production of all crops (inter crops, border crops, multi crops). The inputs used for seed treatments and other inoculations are locally available in the form of cow dung and cow urine. The states that are practicing Zero Budget Natural Farming includes AP, Uttarakhand, Karnataka, Himachal Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Kerala. ZBNF in Andhra Pradesh: Government of Andhra Pradesh is implementing ‗Zero-Budget‘ Natural Farming (APZBNF) Programme through Rythu Sadhikara Samstha (RySS). The programme has been initiated in 2015-16 with multiple objectives of enhancing farmers‘ welfare, consumer welfare and for the conservation of the environment.
Rythu Sadhikara Samstha(RySS):
Rythu Sadhikara Samstha(RySS) is a not-for-profit company fully-owned by the Government of Andhra Pradesh. It has pioneered Zero Budget Natural Farming in the state of Andhra Pradesh.
The aim is to reach universalization of Natural Farming practices by reaching 6 million farmers and converting 8 million hectares into natural farming fields.
Source:- PIB
GS PAPER - 03 ECONOMY - Statutory, regulatory and various quasi-judicial bodies Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.
FINANCIAL INCLUSION STRATEGY FOR 2024 Context : TheReserve Bank of India has released the national strategy for financial inclusion.
National strategy for Financial Inclusion : The national strategy for financial inclusion sets forth the vision and key objectives of financial inclusion policies in India.
It also aims to provide access to formal and affordable financial services; broaden and deepen financial inclusion and promote financial literacy and consumer protection. Key Features :
The strategy has said that wider acceptance and the adoption of digital payments will play a key role towards financial inclusion. 83
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The strategy aims to see that every adult had access to a financial service provider through a mobile device by March 2024. It has called for increasing outreach of banking outlets of scheduled commercial banks among others to provide banking access to every village within a 5 km radius of 500 households in hilly areas by March 2020. It has also set a target that every willing and eligible adult who has been enrolled under the Prime Minister Jan Dhan Yojana should be enrolled under an insurance scheme and a pension scheme by March 2020.
A strong regulatory and legal framework is also needed for protecting the interests of the customers, promoting fair practices and curbing market manipulations. It has also suggested in making the public credit registry fully operational by March 2022 so that
authorised financial entities can leverage on the same for assessing credit proposals from all citizens.
Public Credit registry:
Public Credit Registry (PCR) has been set up by the Reserve Bank of India(RBI). It refers to an extensive database of credit information of borrowers that is accessible to all lending and credit decision-making institutions. It will be a single point of mandatory reporting for all information about each loan notwithstanding any threshold in the loan amount or type of borrower.
Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY): The Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) was launched in 2014 with an aim to provide universal access to banking facilities to all households. The objective of PMJDY is to ensure access to various financial services like availability of basic savings bank account access to need based credit remittances facility insurance and pension to weaker sections and low income groups.
Source :- The Hindu GS PAPER - 03 ECONOMY - Effects of liberalization on the economy
INDIA-NORWAY DIALOGUE Context : The first Session of India-Norway Dialogue on Trade & Investment (DTI) was convened in New Delhi on
15-16 January, 2020. More about the Dialogue : The session was based on the Terms of Reference (ToR) signed between India and Norway on 8th January, 2019 in New Delhi, during the visit of Prime Minister of Norway. This was the first meeting after the signing of DTI. The first Session was preceded by an industry interaction with the representatives from Indian industry, where discussions were held on various areas of mutual interest like blue economy, shipping & maritime, ICT, renewable energy, fisheries and MSME. Both sides noted that the dynamic nature of commercial exchange between the two countries will result in an increasing number of companies interested in establishing and gaining access to the markets in India and Norway.
Source :- PIB
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GS PAPER - 03 ECONOMY - Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate.
THE RESKILLING REVOLUTION INITIATIVE AT WEF
Context : India has joined as a founding government member the World Economic Forum‘s Reskilling Revolution Initiative.
Reskilling Revolution Initiative : The initiative aims to future-proof workers from technological change and help economies by providing new skills for the Fourth Industrial Revolution. It targets to provide one billion people with better education, skills and jobs by 2030. The founding governments of the initiative include Brazil, France, India, Pakistan, the Russian Federation, UAE and the US. Business partners include PwC, Salesforce, Manpower Group, Infosys, LinkedIn, Coursera and The Adecco Group.
Fourth Industrial revolution: The fourth industrial revolution is the current developing environment in which disruptive technologies such as the Internet of Things(IoT), robotics and artificial intelligence(AI) are changing the way we live and work.
Centre for Fourth Industrial revolution: In 2018,India has become the fourth country in the world after the USA ,China and Japan where World Economic Forum in partnership with NITI Aayog has opened its centre for Fourth Industrial
Revolution. The centre aims to accelerate the adoption of new technologies, minimize their negative effects on society and ensure that everyone has access to the benefits generated by these technologies. The centre would be based in Mumbai and it has selected drones, artificial intelligence and blockchain as the first three project areas. Source:- Economic Times
GS PAPER - 03 ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY - Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment
FOREST SURVEY OF INDIA Context : The Forest Survey of India(FSI) in its report Stats that that about 21.40% of forest cover in India is prone
to fires, with forests in the north-eastern region and central India being the most vulnerable. Key Findings :
About 21.40% of forest cover in India is prone to fires with forests in the north-eastern region and central India being the most vulnerable.
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The extremely fire prone areas account for 3.89% of total forest cover, very highly fire prone areas account for 6.01% and highly fire prone areas for 11.50%.Together,the three categories come to 21.40 % of forest cover. The overall green cover has increased in the country but the forest cover in the north-east, particularly in Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland, has decreased. The seven States of the north-eastern region accounted for about one-third of alerts in the country with Mizoram recording the highest number of fire alerts. Reasons for Forest Fires :
In central India, The reasons for forest fires are mostly man made particularly in cases where people visit forests and leave burning bid is, cigarette stubs or other inflammable materials. However, in cases of natural reasons, the scientist pointed to the thunderstorms as the most likely cause.
A major reason for forest fires in the north-east is slash-and-burn cultivation, commonly called jhoom or jhum cultivation. The north-east has tropical evergreen forests which are not likely to catch fire easily on their own like the
dry deciduous forests of central India.
Various Initiatives taken to Control Forest fire:
National Master Plan for Forest Fire Control: The main objectives are: To strengthen the organizations responsible for forest fire management To coordinate international transfer of technology and training in the field of forest fire management Creation of a strong database for: number of fires, area burnt, damage to flora and fauna, effect of fire on land and soil and measures taken Assessment of ecological, social, and economic impact of fires Strong national extension strategy for people‘s awareness and their participation in forest fire management through Joint Forest Management and NGOs Forest Fire Prevention and Management Scheme: In 2017, the Intensification of Forest Management Scheme was revised and replaced as
Forest Fire Prevention & Management Scheme. The main objectives of the scheme : Minimise forest fire incidences and help in restoring productivity of forests in
affected areas Encourage partnership with forest fringe communities for forest protection Prepare fire danger rating system and devise forest fire forecasting system
Pre Warning alert system: ○ Forest Survey of India(FSI) has developed Pre Warning Alert System. It gives alerts to state forest departments based on parameters like forest cover, forest types, climatic variables (temperature, rainfall) and recent fire incidents over the area.
Source :- The Hindu ALIEN PLANTS‟ GROWTH
Context : The Kerala Government is planning to arrest the rampant growth of invasive plants, especially Senna spectabilis, in the forest areas of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve (NBR), including the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. More in the news : The spread of invasive plants, especially Senna spectabilis, is posing a major threat to the forest areas of the reserve, owing to its quick growth and coppicing character Due to mass flowering and drying of bamboo species in Wayanad, lots of open spaces (78.91 sq km) has been occupied by Senna spectabilis.
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The plant has also started to invade the adjacent Bandipur and Nagarhole tiger reserves in Karnataka and Mudumalai tiger reserve in Tamil Nadu.
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary : It is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve along with Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary, Bandipur
National Park, Nagarhole National Park, Mukurthi National Park, and Silent Valley. Wayanad Wildlife sanctuary is significant because of ecological and geographic continuity with other protected areas such as Bandipur Tiger Reserve and Nagarhole National Park, of Karnataka in the north-eastern portion and Mudumalai Tiger Reserve of Tamil Nadu in the south-east. It has the world‘s largest recorded population of the Asiatic elephant. Almost the entire Wayanad district is drained by Kabini and its three tributaries, the Panamaram, Mananthavady, and Kalindy rivers.
The Kabini River, one of the three east flowing rivers of Kerala, is an important tributary of the Kaveri River.
Senna spectabilis : Senna spectabilis is a deciduous tree native to tropical areas of America. It grows up to 15 to 20 metres in a short period of time and distributes thousands of seeds after flowering. The thick foliage of the tree arrests the growth of other indigenous tree and grass species. Thus, it causes food shortage for the wildlife population, especially herbivores. It also adversely affect the germination and growth of the native species. It is categorised as ‗Least Concern‘ under IUCN Red List. Source :- The Hindu
„REEF TOXIC‟ SUN CREAM Context : Palau, the western Pacific Ocean country, has become the first country in the world to ban various types
of sunscreen to protect coral reefs. More in the news : The ban has been imposed on ‗reef toxic' or coral toxic sunscreens.
The country has announced this step as strict environmental measures. Scientists have found that chemicals contained in sunscreen, which enters the ocean through different means, causes great harm to coral reefs.
According to the President of Palau, Tommy Esang Remengesau, Jr. this decision has taken on the basis of a report published in 2017 that informed sunscreen products have harmful chemicals for coral reefs. Sunscreen and Coral Reefs : As per the report published by The Ocean Foundation, about 14,000 tons of sunscreen is absorbed into the oceans every year. According to researchers at the University of Queensland in Australia, low concentrations of sunscreen in water can also reduce the growth of young coral. Various studies have shown that chemicals in sunscreen can harm coral reefs and also inhibit fish reproduction by interfering with their hormonal system. A 2015 study found that the oxybenzone present in sunscreen inhibits coral growth. It was also found toxic to algae living within the coral reefs.
Palau : Palau is a part of the Micronesia region with over 500 islands. It is located in the western Pacific Ocean region. It is known for its coral reefs, marine life and clean beaches with diving destinations.
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Rock Islands Southern Lagoon of Palau is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Palau created the world‘s first shark sanctuary in 2009.
Source:- Down to Earth HARGILA Context :
The Assam State Zoo and wildlife NGO Aaranyak has jointly bred a pair of Greater Adjutant (Hargila) chicks in an artificial platform within the zoo enclosure.
Greater Adjutant Stork (Hargila):
The Endangered Greater Adjutant stork (Leptoptilosdubius) is one of the rarest species of Storks out of twenty species of Storks in the world. In India, eight species of residential storks are found, out of which Greater Adjutant is one of
them. Once abundantly distributed in Southeast Asia, this stork is now restricted to a few isolated pockets in Assam and Bihar in India and PrekToal in Cambodia IUCN status: Endangered It is listed under schedule IV of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
More in the news : Hargila is currently on the brink of extinction due to habitat loss stemming from indiscriminate felling of big trees and dwindling wetlands. Habitat loss, poaching and poisoning are the major threats to the species. Cutting down of nesting trees by the tree owners and infrastructural construction has resulted into a breeding failure of the species and many historical breeding colonies have gone missing in its historical distribution range. Source :- AIR TIGER DEATHS
Context : According to data from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), for the first time in the past three years, the number of tiger deaths in a year in the country has been less than 100.
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Key Facts and datas : In 2019, there were 84 cases of tiger deaths in the country and 11 cases of seizures (in which a tiger is presumed dead on the basis of body parts seized by authorities). Both put together, the number of tiger deaths was 95. The data on tiger mortality also confirms 22 cases of poaching in the country and one
case of tiger poisoning in 2019. In 2018, the number of tiger deaths recorded was 100 (93 mortalities and seven seizures). In 2017, the number of tiger deaths was 115 (98 mortalities and 17 seizures).
In 2016, it was 122 (101 mortalities and 21 seizures). State wise : Madhya Pradesh, which has the highest number of tigers in the country (526, as per the last
census), has recorded the most number of cases of tiger deaths, with 31 tiger deaths reported from the central Indian State in 2019. It is followed by Maharashtra, which reported 18 deaths.
Karnataka, another State with high tiger population, recorded 12 deaths, and Uttarakhand recorded ten deaths. Tamil Nadu recorded seven cases of tiger deaths.
How was this achieved : The reduced numbers of tiger mortalities are because of surveillance, good management of Tiger Reserves and a lot of awareness and education programmes on tiger conservation. M-STriPES (Monitoring System for Tigers-Intensive Protection & Ecological Status) patrolling app was deployed and used in every Tiger Reserve. MIYAWAKI FORESTS Context : Kerala Government‘s move to implement the concept of Miyawaki forests in more areas. More in the news : The highly successful technique of Miyawaki forests has been adopted by individuals in the State to increase the green cover in urban and semi-urban areas. Following the success by individual initiatives, the Kerala government has decided to employ the Miyawaki method of afforestation to add a green cover on government office premises, residential
complexes, school premises, and puramboke land in Kerala. The Forest Department would be the nodal agency in the State. To take the initiative forward, each department has been asked to nominate nodal officers at the
State and district levels and issue formal orders on the initiative. Miyawaki forest : ‗Miyawaki forests‘ is a highly successful technique, pioneered by Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki.
By promoting natural vegetation on land destroyed by natural calamities and due to human activity along the Japanese coastline, Miyawaki managed to raise mini-forests. The concept involves raising indigenous and native trees in dense plantations mimicking forest settings. It
involves the preparation of the substrate if the land involved is much degraded. It promotes natural vegetation on degraded land. 89
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Significance : The Miyawaki method of afforestation has revolutionised the concept of urban afforestation by turning backyards into mini-forests. This concept has helped increase green cover in urban areas. It will help increase the green cover in India and also help meet India‘s pledge in the Paris Climate Deal, which involved increasing carbon sequestration in India. The Miyawaki method evolved by promoting natural vegetation on land destroyed by natural calamities and due to human activity along the Japanese coastline. The replication of the model across Kerala, which has suffered floods, landslips and soil erosion, assumes significance given the Rebuild Kerala initiative.
Source :- The Hindu GLOBAL MEET ON MARINE ECOSYSTEMS Context : The third international conference on marine ecosystems – challenges and opportunities(MECOS-3) will be held in Kochi, Kerala from January 7 to 10,2019. More about the conference : The Conference is organized by the Marine Biological Association of India. The conference is aimed at reviewing the concerns involved in marine ecosystem and formulating strategies for the better and sustainable utilisation of marine wealth by enhancing livelihood options, It will also serve as a platform for discussions on a range of topics, including the impact of the climate crisis on marine ecosystems and an unusual warming of the Arabian Sea. The conference would focus on the Sustainable Development Goal of the United Nations, SDG-14. SDG-14 says, ―Conserve and Sustainably use the oceans and its resources for sustainable development‖. Significance : Healthy oceans, coasts and related ecosystems are crucial for economic growth and food production. Billions of people worldwide, especially the world‘s poorest rely on healthy oceans to provide jobs and food underscoring the urgent need to sustainably use and protect this natural resource. However, numerous issues such as depletion of resources, marine pollution, extreme weather conditions and rising sea surface temperature pose a threat to the sustainable utilisation of marine resources. Hence, the conference would come up with a roadmap to deal with these issues.
Marine Biological Association of India: The Marine Biological Association of India was established in the year 1958.
It serves the cause of promotion of research on marine sciences in the Asia-Pacific region. It also aims to create an active interest among its members in the field of marine biology and allied marine sciences.
Source :- The Hindu THE RARE GREAT INDIAN BUSTARD Context : Conservation efforts are having a positive impact on Great Indian Bustard population in India.
Great Indian Bustard :
Scientific Name: Ardeotis nigriceps Habitat: Dry grasslands and scrublands on the Indian subcontinent; its largest populations are found in the Indian state of Rajasthan.
Protection Status Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List In Appendix I of CITES, In Schedule I of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
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Conservation Efforts in India Bustard Recovery Programme: Initiated by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in 2015, it is a programme for Great Indian Bustard, Lesser Florican and Bengal Florican. It recommends :
linking local livelihoods with bustard conservation state governments to identify the core breeding areas for bustards and keep them inviolate from human disturbances
Restriction on infrastructure development and land use diversion for roads, high tension electric poles, intensive agriculture, wind power generators and construction. Project Great Indian Bustard:
It is a Rajasthan government project launched in 2018. It envisages constituting enclosures and securing inviolate areas to ensure successful breeding of birds in the Desert National Park Source :- Indian Express CHILIKA LAKE
Context : The Chilika Development Authority(CDA) has said that it expects over 1 million migratory birds to flock to Chilika lake in 2020.
Chilika lake: Chilika lake is the Asia‘s largest brackish water lake.It is located at the Daya River flowing into the Bay of Bengal.
The lake is also the second largest coastal lagoon in the world after the New Caledonian barrier reef in New Caledonia. Chilika lake was also designated as a wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention
in 1981. The lake is also home to the largest wintering ground for migratory birds on the Indian subcontinent.These birds travel great distances to reach Chilika Lake.
The Irrawaddy dolphin(IUCN Red List –Endangered) is the flagship species of Chilika Lake. Source :- Down To Earth ; The Hindu
PADDLEFISH Context : The Chinese paddlefish (Psephurus gladius), native to the Yangtze, Asia's longest river, and one of the world's largest species of freshwater species has been declared extinct by Chinese scientists. Chinese Paddlefish: Chinese Paddlefish is also known as Chinese swordfish.It is one of the world‘s largest freshwater fish species. It inhabits the Yangtze River basin. The largest Chinese paddlefish may grow up to 3 metres in length and weigh 300 kg. It has been listed on the IUCN‘s Red List as critically endangered since 1996.However,Scientists have now declared it as an extinct species. The Chinese Paddlefish along with American Paddlefish were the only two extant members of a relict lineage that was most diverse and widespread 34-75 million years ago. Reason for extinction : The factors that contributed to the Chinese paddlefish‘s extinction includes construction of a dam along the Yangtze River basin overfishing habitat loss and
pollution. Source :- Down To Earth 91
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TIGER RESERVE IN GOA Context : Activists from Goa have demanded that certain areas in wildlife sanctuaries of the state be notified as ‗tiger reserve‘. Background : In 2017, Goa government had sent a proposal to Centre, according to which 500 Sq.km area of Mhadei, Netravali and Cotigao sanctuaries and some part of Mahaveer National Park was to be declared as Tiger Reserve.
Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Goa bounded by Cotigao wildlife sanctuary on the eastern side and Bhagwan Mahaveer wildlife sanctuary on the northern side. It is predominantly moist deciduous forests with patches of semi-evergreen forest in the valleys.
It has two important waterfalls namely, Savari and Mainapi. This region supports a rich diversity of flora and fauna and notable among them are Leopard, Giant Squirrel, Mouse Deer, Nilgiri Wood Pigeon and Ceylon Frogmouth.
Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary : Cotigao Sanctuary is situated in Canacona Taluka, of Goa. It was established in 1968-69 to protect a remote and vulnerable area of forest lining the Goa- Karnataka border. The vegetation is mostly moist-deciduous type, interspersed with semi-evergreen and evergreen patches. Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary : Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Mollem town of Goa. It is one of the largest wildlife sanctuaries of Goa and contains within it the Mollem National Park. It was formed to protect the vast biodiversity of the Western Ghat. Originally known as the Mollem Game Sanctuary, it was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1969 and
thence renamed the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary is heavily forested and contains tropical evergreen forests, semi-evergreen forests and moist deciduous forests.
Tiger reserve : Tiger Reserves are protected areas that aim at conserving the habitat to ensure a viable population of the tigers along with their prey base in their habitat. They are established under the Project Tiger, launched in 1973.
National Tiger Conservation Authority, established in 2005, oversees management of Project Tiger and Tiger Reserves in India. Jim Corbett in Uttarakhand is the first Tiger Reserve to be established under Project Tiger. At present, there are 50 tiger reserves in India.
Source :- Business Standard IRRAWADDY DOLPHINS
Context : Odisha Forest Department has sighted 146 endangered Irrawaddy dolphins in Chilika Lake. More in the news :
The dolphin census was simultaneously taken up in Chilika and off Odisha coast. Odisha Forest Department officials, wildlife experts and researchers have sighted 146 Irrawaddy dolphins in Chilika Lake.
Chilika Lake has the highest single lagoon population of the Irrawaddy dolphin in the world. The counting of dolphins was done using hydrophones.
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A hydrophone is a microphone designed to be used underwater for recording or listening to underwater sound. Most hydrophones are based on a piezoelectric transducer that generates an electric potential when subjected to a pressure change, such as a sound wave.
Irrawaddy Dolphins: Irrawaddy Dolphins(Orcaella Brevirostris) are oceanic dolphin found in brackish water near coasts, river mouths and estuaries in South and Southeast Asia.
Habitat: It extends from the Bay of Bengal to New Guinea and the Philippines. They are found in three rivers namely The Irrawaddy (Myanmar), the Mahakam (Indonesian Borneo) and the Mekong. Features: They have a bulging forehead and short beak. They pop out their head out of the water to breathe followed by its back. Status: They are listed as Endangered under the IUCN Red list. Population: The total population in the world is estimated to be less than 7,500.Of these, around 6,400 Irrawaddy dolphins have been reported from Bangladesh. The dolphin distribution in Chilika is considered to be the highest single lagoon population. Threat: They had been under stress in Chilika lake due to unregulated boating by tourists as well as illegal prawn enclosures.
Chilika lake: Chilika is Asia's largest and world's second-largest lagoon. It lies on the east coast of India in the state of Odisha, separated from the mighty Bay of Bengal by a small strip of sand. It is the largest wintering ground for migratory birds on the Indian sub-continent and is home to a number of threatened species of plants and animals. In 1981, Chilika Lake has designated the first Indian wetland of international importance under the
Ramsar Convention. The major attraction at Chilika is Irrawaddy dolphins which are often spotted off Satpada Island. The large Nalabana Island (Forest of Reeds) covering about 16 sq km in the lagoon area was
declared a bird sanctuary in 1987. Kalijai Temple is located on an island in the Chilika Lake. Source :- The Hindu
NEW WETLAND CONSERVATION RULES Context : Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has notified the new Wetland Conservation Rules which prohibit setting up or expansion of industries and disposal of construction and demolition waste within the wetlands. Key Measures :
The new Rules also prohibit the conversion for non-wetland uses including encroachment of any kind, besides setting up of any industry and expansion of existing industries within the notified wetlands. It prohibited manufacture, handling, storage or disposal of construction and demolition waste — covered
under the Construction and Demolition Waste Management Rules, 2016 — hazardous substances, electronic waste — covered under the E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2016 — solid waste dumping and discharge of untreated wastes and effluent from industries, cities, towns, villages and other human
settlements, within such bodies. Each state and Union Territory will have to set up wetland authority that will define strategies for wetlands conservation. The authority will also include one expert each in the fields of wetland ecology, hydrology, fisheries, landscape planning and socioeconomics to be nominated by the state government. The authority should also enhance awareness among stakeholders and local communities. Source :- Indian Express 93
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'BAMBOO- A WONDER GRASS' Context : The two-day workshop-cum-exhibition on Bamboo with the aim of creating opportunities for the sustainable development in Jammu and Kashmir concluded. More about the workshop : The workshop-cum-exhibition was organized by the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region, North Eastern Council, Govt. of India and Govt. of Jammu and Kashmir through Cane and Bamboo Technology Center (CBTC), Guwahati, Assam and the Department of Social Forestry, Govt. of Jammu
and Kashmir. During the session Planning Advisor, North Eastern Council, Govt. of India put forth various recommendations for the growth of Bamboo industry in Jammu and Kashmir on the pattern of North
Eastern Region. Recommendations : Identify and increase the coverage of appropriate species of bamboo in Jammu and Kashmir through
tissue culture research and establish nurseries and distribute endlings. Formation and promotion of bamboo-related farmers and organisations and bamboo clusters throughout the bamboo producing areas of J&K with the involvement of PRIs.
Capacity building of J&K farmers/artisans and bamboo entrepreneurs at CBTC Assam. A technical collaboration of CBTC with the J&K Government for setting up of Common Facility Centers and Bamboo Technology Parks.
Promotion of the use of bamboo as a construction material for eco-tourism, rural housing and community buildings in rural areas. A partnership between North East Handicrafts & Handlooms Corporation Ltd (NEHHDC) and J&K Government to assist the J&K artisans for the promotion and marketing of bamboo products and handicrafts. Source :- PIB KAZIRANGA NATIONAL PARK Context :
According to the second wetland bird count, conducted by officials of the Kaziranga National Park, the park has 96 species of wetland birds. Kaziranga National park :
Location: Spread across parts of Golaghat and Nagaon districts of Assam. Major Rivers: Brahmaputra, Diphlu, Mora Diphlu and Mora Dhansiri. Perennial wetlands: Sohola (largest), Borbeel, Kawoimari, Jamuguri
Climate: Tropical Monsoon In the year 1985, the park was declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO It is recognized as an Important Bird Area by BirdLife International for the conservation of avifaunal
species. It houses the world‘s largest population of Great One-horned Rhinoceros (IUCN Status- Vulnerable) Kaziranga was declared a Tiger Reserve in 2006
Significance of Wetland for water Bird : Some birds depend on wetlands almost totally for breeding, nesting, feeding, or shelter during their breeding cycles.
Birds that need functional access to a wetland or wetland products during their life cycle, especially during the breeding season, can be called "wetland-dependent" Other birds use wetlands only for some of their needs, or they might use both wetland and upland
habitats. Source :- The Hindu
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THE ISLAND DEVELOPMENT AGENCY Context : The Union Home Minister chaired the sixth meeting of the Island Development Agency (IDA). Island Development Agency (IDA) : The IDA was set up in 2017 following the Prime Minister‘s review meeting for the development of islands. The meetings of the agency are chaired by the Union Home Minister. The vision was for developing India‘s maritime economy while preserving the natural eco-system and addressing security concerns. The project steered by NITI Aayog aims at promoting and implementing development based on the sustainable approach to building a thriving maritime economy of the project islands.
After detailed consultations with key stakeholders, 10 islands namely Smith, Ross, Aves, Long and Little Andaman in Andaman & Nicobar and Minicoy, Bangaram, Suheli, Cherium and Tinnakara in Lakshadweep have been identified for holistic development in the first phase.
Source :- PIB EASTERN GHATS Context : With intensifying agricultural practices, urbanization and pressures from mining and deforestation, the precious eastern ghats habitat of endemic and rare, endangered and threatened (RET) species could be reduced, even leading to species loss, notes a new study. Background : The broken hill-ranges of the Eastern Ghats, spread across Odisha, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, are home to unique ecosystems. Though it has over 450 endemic plant species, the region remains one of the most exploited and degraded ecosystems of India. Key Findings : The study team looked at available plant species data and identified 22 endemic species recorded from over 250 locations and 28 Rare , Endangered and Threatened (RET) Species species recorded from nearly
800 locations in the Eastern Ghats. Raising pressure from anthropogenic activities: The results published in Environmental Monitoring and Assessment show that by 2050 the total human population in the Eastern Ghats region is expected to
reach 2.6 million. The highly threatening human activities in the Eastern Ghats area are mining, urbanisation/settlements, dam construction, firewood collection and agricultural expansion.
Unsupervised tourism also affects the distribution of these species. The mean temperature and rainfall were all crucial for the plant species and simulations showed that the temperature is likely to increase by 1.8 degree Celsius by 2050 to 1.98 degree Celsius by 2070. The rainfall is also projected to increase by 113 millimetre by 2050 and 160 millimetre by 2070. Climate change effect: the regional or local climate change (warming) has led to frequent prolonged non- rainy days, increased number of days with maximum and minimum temperatures resulting in loss of soil moisture and soil degradation. The occurrence of frequent forest fires has affected regeneration of the less-frequent endemic species in the forest. Studies from across the globe have shown that the tropics are losing more plant biodiversity than other regions.
Illegal felling of trees: Most reserve forest areas in the hills of South India are controlled by the forest department, protected by the Tamil Nadu Forest Act, 1882 and Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 but it is not implemented effectively in the absence of popular support. As a result, the protection of the tress in
private holdings has become a challenge.
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Way Forward : Ecotourism with regulatory guidelines is a positive way to educate and promote conservation. The concept of eco-tourism introduced by the Forest Department in recent years, involving local forest stake- holders may be a boon to not only residents but also the biota of the entire region. The experience has been positive in Srivilliputhur Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary.
More studies and setting up species inventories to identify and record species can help on conservation efforts. Biodiversity conservation initiatives of Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change of
Government of India and State forest departments focus on the Eastern Ghats to protect declining habitats of endemic and RET species. The boundaries of national parks and sanctuaries should be redefined based on the richness of endemic
and RET species. Source :- The Hindu ENVIRONMENT-RELATED OFFENCES Context : National Crime Records Bureau released data on environmental crimes in Annual Crime in India report 2018 Key Highlights : Environmental crimes dropped 17% in 2018 Tamil Nadu topped the list, followed by Rajasthan and Kerala Almost two-thirds of such violations were that of the cigarette and tobacco-related law Nearly a quarter of the offences were related to noise pollution. Cases related to forests, wildlife, air and water pollution, were a little more than a tenth of the total. That was an 8 per cent dip from 4,061 such cases in 2017. Sharp Rise in Environmental Crimes : Bihar‘s record nearly tripled over the previous year. Himachal registered and Odisha, too, recorded a marginal rise in offences recorded under the ‗wildlife law‘.
In Meghalaya, 45 cases were registered under the NGT Act in 2018 while there were none a year ago. Environmental Crimes:
The offences related to eight acts: The Forest Act, 1927: It consolidates the law related to forest, the transit of forest produce, and the duty liable on timber
and other forest produce The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: It provides for protection of plants and animal species. The Environmental (Protection) Act, 1986: It relates to the protection and improvement of the human environment and the prevention of hazards to human beings, other living creatures, plants and property. The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981: It provides for the prevention, control and abatement of air pollution. The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974: It is a comprehensive legislation that regulates agencies responsible for checking on water pollution The Cigarette and Other Tobacco Products Act, 2003: It prohibits advertisement of cigarettes and other tobacco products in India. Smoking in public places (including indoor workplaces) is prohibited
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) Act, 2010:
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It established NGT to handle the expeditious disposal of the cases pertaining to environmental issues Central and state noise pollution acts Source :- Down To Earth DESMI WASTE WATER MANAGEMENT PROJECT
Context : Foreign Minister of Denmark has visited the Barapullah DESMI Waste Water Management Project Site in New Delhi.
DESMI Waste Water Management Project: It is a holistic clean up project between Department of Biotechnology (DBT).Ministry of Science & Technology and DESMI EnviRO-CLEAN, Denmark. The aim of the project is to trap the floating debris from the drain and convert it into value added products. The purpose of this project is also to prove the sustainability of the process with suitable gasification/ carbonisation technology to mitigate waste of mixed feedstock, collected from rivers or lakes besides reducing the damage to the local environment. The Barapullah drain was chosen for this project because of the high population density, water scarcity and size of the waste water flow which makes it an excellent location for research in the area of wastewater management. Key Features : Percentage of floating debris will reduce in Barapullah drain Sustainable source of energy can be produced on site Benefitting local environment and community Local employment Clean Indian Rivers Project leads and Research benefits the water, energy and waste sector of India Supporting local manufacturing Industry – Make in India. Source :- PIB
ESPAÑOLA GIANT TORTOISES Context : The Galápagos National Park has announced it is ending Giant Tortoise Restoration Initiative (GTRI),
captive breeding program, for Española Giant Tortoises Española Giant Tortoises : Giant tortoises are the longest-lived of all vertebrates, averaging over 100 years.
Geographic Range: Española Island [formerly Hood Island] in the Galápagos Islands of Ecuador. IUCN Status: Critically Endangered Galápagos Island:
It is a part of the Republic of Ecuador.
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It is an archipelago of volcanic islands distributed on either side of the equator in the Pacific Ocean. It is a World Heritage Site. Source :- Indian Express GLOBAL RISKS REPORT,2020 Context :
The World Economic Forum released its 15th edition of the Global Risks Report on January 15, 2020.
Global Risk Report : The report describes changes occurring in the global risks landscape from year to year and identifies global catastrophic risks. This is the first time in the report‘s 10-year-history that all of the top five issues that are likely to impact the world this year are environmental. Key Highlights : The report has listed top 10 risks over the next 10 years which are:
Extreme weather Climate action failure Natural Disaster
Biodiversity loss Humans made environmental disasters Data fraud or theft Cyberattacks Water crisis Global governance failure Asset Bubble The climate-related issues dominated all top-five long-term risks in terms of likelihood. The other threats included geopolitical instability and economic slowdown. Biodiversity loss was listed as the second most impactful and third most likely risk in the coming decade. The current rate of extinction is reported to be much higher than the average rate over the past 10 million
years. Biodiversity loss is expected to have critical implications on the human race, starting from the collapse of food and health systems to the disruption of the entire supply chain.
Another key concern is the rising use of digital technology, which though is bringing tremendous economic and societal benefits to the global population, it also gives rise to potential risks such as unequal access to the internet, lack of global technology governance framework and cyber insecurity.
The report further highlights how growing geopolitical instability and geo-economic uncertainty threatens to prevent the full potential of next-generation technologies from being realized. Information infrastructure breakdown was listed as the sixth most impactful risk in the next 10 years.
The report also highlights that the vulnerabilities surrounding the health systems across the world due to changing societal, demographic, environmental and technological patterns threaten to undo the gains made in wellness in the past century. Many non-communicable diseases have replaced infectious diseases to become the leading cause of death and the cost of managing such chronic diseases has put healthcare systems across the world under major stress. The report further predicts the economic climate to continue to be challenging, especially in 2020, which could see increasing economic confrontations, discontent and domestic political polarization. Key Recommendations : The report suggests swift multi-stakeholder action to quickly to mitigate against the worst outcomes and build resilience across communities and businesses.
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World Economic Forum(WEF) :
WEF was established in 1971 as a not-for-profit foundation and is headquartered in Geneva,
Switzerland.
The objective of WEF is to improve the state of the world by engaging business, political, academic and other leaders of society to shape global, regional and industry agendas.
Source :- Down To Earth NATURE RISK RISING REPORT Context : World Economic Forum (WEF) has released Nature Risk Rising Report
Nature Rising Report : It has produced by WEF in collaboration with PwC and the first report in series of New Nature Economy (NNE) reports. It explains how nature-related risks matter to business, why they must be urgently mainstreamed into risk management strategies
Key Highlight :
The report said USD 44 trillion of economic value generation – over half the world‘s total GDP – is moderately or highly dependent on nature and its services and, as a result, exposed to risks from nature
loss. Construction (USD 4 trillion), agriculture (USD 2.5 trillion) and food and beverages (USD 1.4 trillion) are the three largest industries that depend most on nature. Combined, their value is roughly twice the size of the German economy. Such industries rely on either the direct extraction of resources from forests and oceans or the provision of ecosystem services such as healthy soils, clean water, pollination and a stable climate. As nature loses its capacity to provide such services, these industries could be significantly disrupted. Industries highly dependent on nature generate 15 percent of global GDP (USD 13 trillion), while moderately dependent industries generate 37 per cent (USD 31 trillion). This World Economic Forum report, produced in collaboration with PwC UK, found that many industries have significant ―hidden dependencies‖ on nature in their supply chain and may be more at risk of disruption than expected.
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For instance, there are six industries which have less than 15 percent of their direct gross value added (GVA) that is highly dependent on nature, yet over 50 per cent of their supply chains‘ GVA is highly or moderately nature-dependent. The industries are chemicals and materials; aviation, travel and tourism; real estate; mining and metals; supply chain and transport; and retail, consumer goods and lifestyle. In terms of global exposure, larger economies have the highest absolute amounts of GDP in nature- dependent sectors: USD 2.7 trillion in China, USD 2.4 trillion in the European Union and USD 2.1 trillion in the United States.
The report said damage to nature from economic activity can no longer be considered an ‗externality‘. The WEF said many large businesses have already adopted the framework proposed by the Financial Stability Board‘s Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) for identifying, measuring
and managing climate risks and this could be adapted and leveraged for managing nature risks. Source:- Indian Express HCFC Context : India has successfully achieved the complete phase out of Hydro chlorofluorocarbon (HCFC)-141 b More in the news : India has successfully achieved the complete phase-out of Hydro chlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) -141b, which is a chemical used by foam manufacturing enterprises. It is one of the most potent ozone-depleting chemicals after Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). India has consciously chosen a path for environment-friendly and energy-efficient technologies while phasing out Ozone Depleting Substances (ODSs). Importantly, India is one among the few countries globally and a pioneer in some cases in the use of technologies, which are non-Ozone Depleting and have a low Global Warming Potential (GWP). This phase-out of HCFC – 141b was done by 1st January 2020. The issuance of import license for HCFC-141b is prohibited from 1st January 2020 under the Ozone Depleting Substances (Regulation and Control) Amendment Rules, 2019 issued under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. Nearly 50 % of the consumption of ozone-depleting chemicals in the country was attributable to HCFC- 141b in the foam sector.
The Environment, Forest and Climate Change Ministry adopted a structured approach to engage with foam manufacturing enterprises for providing technical and financial assistance in order to transition to non-ODS and low GWP technologies under HCFC Phase out Management Plan (HPMP). The complete phase-out of HCFC 141b from the country in the foam sector is among the first at this scale
in Article 5 parties (developing countries) under the Montreal Protocol.
Montreal Protocol : It was signed in 1987. It is signed by 197 countries – the first treaty in the history of the United Nations to achieve universal ratification Aim: To protect the Ozone layer by reducing the production of substances that are supposed to be responsible for the Ozone layer depletion. It phases down the consumption and production of the different ozone depleting substances in a step-wise manner, with different timetables for developed and developing countries Kigali Agreement: Signed in 2016, it is legally binding. It seeks to phase out the production of
hydro fluorocarbons (HFCs) that are potent greenhouse gases by the late 2040s.
Hydro chlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs): Hydro chlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) are a large group of compounds, whose structure is very close to that of Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), but including one or more hydrogen atoms. They are
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organic and synthetic compounds.
They are the second generation of fluorine-based gases, the original replacements for CFCs.
The most significant releases of HCFCs occur as leakage from cooling appliances which contain
them, both during their manufacture, use and disposal. There are not thought to be any natural sources of HCFCs to the environment. At a global level, releases of HCFCs have serious environmental consequences.
As HCFCs contribute both to ozone depletion and global warming, the use of HCFCs is being phased out as part of global legislation, such as the Montreal Protocol. Inhalation, ingestion and exposure to HCFCs can affect human health adversely as well.
Source:- PIB GREENPEACE REPORT Context :
Greenpeace India has released an annual report on the most polluted cities in India. Greenpeace India Report : The report is based on analysis of particulate matter data across 287 cities.
It has used Central Pollution Control Board(CPCB) data to rank the most polluted cities in India. Key Highlights : Jharia in Jharkhand which is known for its underground coal fires was ranked as the most polluted city in
the country in 2018. Dhanbad in Jharkhand was ranked as the second-most polluted city in India. Delhi was 10th most polluted city in 2018, an improvement by two ranks as compared to 2017.
Lunglei in Mizoram was the least polluted city in India followed by Meghalaya‘s Dowki. Further, Six of the top-10 polluted cities are in Uttar Pradesh namely Noida, Ghaziabad, Bareilly, Allahabad, Moradabad and Firozabad.
Greenpeace: Greenpeace is a non-governmental environmental organization established in 1971. It is headquartered at Amsterdam, Netherlands. It‘s goal is to ensure the ability of the Earth to nurture life in all its diversity and focuses its campaigning on global issues such as climate change, deforestation, anti-nuclear issues among others.
Source:- Times of India
IRRIGATION AND CLIMATE CHANG
Context : A new study published in the journal Climate Dynamicssuggests that irrigation practices may be affecting more than just groundwater tables.
Key Highlights : climate effects of irrigation in India: The study found that irrigation decreases the regional land surface maximum and minimum
temperatures by nearly 3°C and 4°C, respectively, during the heavy irrigation months of April- May-June (pre-monsoon). This is why temperatures have not risen as expected in some parts of India, based on recent global warming trends. Certainly, temperatures over the Indo-Gangetic plains have not increased as much as over the other parts of India. Changes in Rainfall Pattern : irrigation helps counteract some of the temperature rise from increasing greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. But, the climatic effects of irrigation are not limited to cooler temperatures, it changes rainfall patterns as well.
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Irrigation leads to lower surface temperatures, causing lower thermal gradients (difference in temperature) between surface and air,‖ ―This thermal gradient is responsible for drawing moisture from the oceans which drives the monsoon cycle. Lower thermal gradient means weaker monsoon and lower rainfall. There are, however, competing processes by which irrigation could affect local rainfall. When
more water is available on the ground, there is more evaporation, which means more moisture in the air and more rainfall locally. This is called recycling. The surface cooling, in turn, leads to a decrease of the land-sea temperature contrast in the pre-
monsoon months which could delay the onset of monsoon, and also reduce the strength of rainfall. There is increase in summer rainfall over the arid western region and a decrease over the wet eastern part of the Gangetic basin. Overall, the study found a decrease in the range of 1.5 to 4.2 per cent in the all India summer monsoon rainfall. Way Forward: If we are over-irrigating (most farmers in India do what can be termed flood irrigation), it is certainly something that needs to be corrected. ―By doing it in a more measured fashion, the large impact on rainfall can be avoided and water can be conserved better without depleting scarce groundwater resources.
Source:- Down To Earth INDIA CLIMATE COLLABORATIVE (ICC) Context: Philanthropy arms of top corporate groups have announced a partnership to launch an initiative called India climate Collaborative. India Climate Collaborative(ICC): India Climate Collaborative(ICC) is a first-of-its kind India-focused collaboration launched by philanthropic arms of top Indian corporates to minimise the climate change impact. Aim: To work together to build a compelling, India-focused climate narrative and drive solutions that help people and nature thrive. The need of such Initiative : India ranked highest in climate-triggered deaths in 2018 and is the fifth-most vulnerable country to the impacts of climate change.
Approximately 42% of India‘s land area faced drought in April last year worsening the farm crisis. Since 1980, nearly 60,000 suicides in India are attributed to warming temperatures accounting for almost 7% of the national upward trend in suicide rates.
There has been a 150% rise in air pollution-related deaths over the past 20 years and in 2017 alone, India saw 1.2 million deaths due to air pollution. India suffered an economic loss of $37 billion due to climate change in 2018.Of this losses due to floods
amounted to $2.8 billion. Source:- Hindu PLATYPUS Context: According to a study, Australia‘s devastating drought and other effects of climate change are pushing platypus towards extinction. Platypus: Platypus is a semi aquatic egg laying mammal endemic to eastern Australia. They are one of the five extant species of monotremes, the only mammals that lay eggs instead of giving birth to live young.
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Platypuses are also known as venomous mammals as male platypus has a venomous spur on the inside of its ankle. They are listed as Near Threatened under the International Union for Conservation of Nature(IUCN) Red list. Source:- The Hindu
10 MORE RAMSAR SITES Context : In a major recognition towards Government of India‘s effort towards conservation, restoration and
rejuvenation of its wetlands, Ramsar has declared 10 more wetland sites from India as sites of international importance. The new Indian Ramsar sites include: Nandur Madhameshwar bird sanctuary- Maharashtra Beas conservation reserve, Keshopur-Miani community reserve and Nangal wildlife sanctuary- Punjab Nawabganj bird sanctuary, Parvati Arga bird sanctuary, Saman bird sanctuary, Sarsai Nawar Lake, Samaspur bird sanctuary and Sandi bird sanctuary- Uttar Pradesh
Ramsar Convention on Wetland (1971): The Convention on Wetlands of International Importance (better known as the Ramsar Convention) is an international agreement promoting the conservation and wise use of wetlands. It is the only global treaty to focus on a single ecosystem. The convention was adopted in the Iranian city of Ramsar in 1971 and came into force in 1975.
Traditionally viewed as a wasteland or breeding ground of disease, wetlands actually provide freshwater and food, and serve as nature‘s shock absorber. Wetlands, critical for biodiversity, are disappearing rapidly, with recent estimates showing that 64%
or more of the world‘s wetlands have vanished since 1900. Major changes in land use for agriculture and grazing, water diversion for dams and canals and infrastructure development are considered to be some of the main causes of loss and degradation of wetlands.
Montreux Record: It is a register of wetland sites on the List of Ramsar wetlands of international importance. It shows such sites where there has been or likely to be adverse ecological changes due to anthropogenic activities. Indian sites in the Montreux Record are Keoladeo National Park (Rajasthan), Loktak Lake (Manipur). Source:- PIB
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AFRICAN CHEETAH Context : The Supreme Court lifted its seven-year stay on a proposal to introduce African cheetahs from Namibia into the Indian habitat on an experimental basis. The plan was to bolster the nearly extinct Indian cheetah population.
Background : The plan to reintroduce cheetah was initiated by then environment minister Jairam Ramesh in 2009. In May 2012, the apex court had stalled the plan to initiate the foreign cheetahs into the Palpur Kuno
sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh fearing they may come into conflict with a parallel and a much-delayed project to reintroduce lions into the same sanctuary. The court was also worried whether the African cheetahs would find the sanctuary a favourable clime as
far as an abundance of prey is concerned. SC direction on Introduce African Cheetah : The SC directed that a proper survey should be done to identify the best possible habitat for the cheetahs.
Every effort should be taken to ensure that they adapt to the Indian conditions. The action of the introduction of the animal would be left to the NTCA‘s discretion. The committee would help, advice and monitor the NTCA on these issues.
Cheetah: IUCN Status: Vulnerable Geographic range: North, Southern and East Africa, and a few localities in Iran Cheetah in India: Extinct in India since 1947
Source:- The Hindu
ILLEGAL SAND MINING Context : Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change has released the Enforcement and Monitoring
Guidelines for Sand Mining 2020 to monitor and check illegal sand mining in the country. Key Provisions of the Guidelines : States to carry out river audits and should put detailed survey reports of all mining areas online and set up
a dedicated task forces at district levels. States to monitor the movement of sand at different levels such as at the time of sale and purchase at stockyards and during transportation. Use of technology through remote surveillance, drones to curb Illegal mining. Online sales and purchase of sand and other riverbed materials to make the process transparent. The transportation of Sand should take place only in vehicles which are installed with GPS and have been registered with the state government. Drawbacks of the Guidelines: The guidelines has put the entire onus on the states to enforce and monitor sustainable mining while completely relieving itself from any kind of responsibilities. There is no mechanism on who will enforce and monitor sustainable mining in bigger projects while states have been told to monitor for projects below 100 hectares. Source :- Indian Express INDIAN GAUR
Context : Wildlife researchers recently documented the presence of an Indian gaur in the Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary (PWS), Maharashtra.
More in the news : According to the Maharashtra forest department, this is the first time a sighting of this species of bison has been reported or documented at the sanctuary.
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Gaur: Gaurs are the world‘s largest and tallest wild bovines The Indian Gaur is listed as Schedule I species under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 and is tagged as ‗vulnerable‘ on the International Union for Conservation of Nature‘s (IUCN) Red List. Geographic range: Bhutan; Cambodia; China; India; Lao People‘s Democratic Republic; Malaysia; Myanmar; Nepal; Thailand; Viet Nam. Source:- Hindu Business Line SHIPS IN THE ARCTIC REGION
Context : International Maritime Organization (IMO) put forward new regulations, called IMO 2020. IMO 2020 :
The IMO has banned ships from using fuels with a sulphur content above 0.5 per cent, compared with 3.5 per cent previously. Only ships fitted with sulphur-cleaning devices, known as scrubbers, are allowed to continue burning high-sulphur fuel. Ships can opt for cleaner fuels, such as marine gas oil (MGO) and very low-sulphur fuel oil (VLSFO). The new limits are monitored and enforced by national authorities of countries that are members of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) Annex VI. Need to Ban Sulfur: Sulphur oxides (SOx), which are formed after combustion in engines, are known to cause respiratory symptoms and lung disease, and also leads to acid rain. Implications : The new regulations, called IMO 2020, have been regarded as the biggest shake up for the oil and shipping industries in decades. It affects more than 50,000 merchant ships worldwide.
International Maritime Organization A specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for measures to improve the safety and security of international shipping and to prevent pollution from ships. Founded in 1948 and headquartered in London, United Kingdom
International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL):
Main international convention aimed at the prevention of pollution from ships caused by operational or accidental causes. Adopted by IMO in 1973.
Source:- Indian Express YELLOW RUST IN WHEAT Context :
The detection of yellow rust disease in the wheat crop in Punjab and Haryana has raised anxiety among farmers about drop in the crop‘s yield. Yellow Rust disease:
Yellow rust disease of wheat also known as stripe rust of wheat is a disease caused by the fungus Puccinia. The disease manifests itself as powdery yellow stripes on leaves.These stripes hinder photosynthesis
make the grains shrivel and stunt the growth of the plant. This disease was first detected in India during 2013-2014.It is capable of causing up to 70% decline in wheat yields
All the wheat growing states like Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, the tarai region of Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and the low lying areas of Jammu and Kashmir are susceptible to the disease. Source:- The Hindu
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GS PAPER - 03 SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY - Achievement of Indians in science & technology; indigenization of technology and developing new technology.
107TH INDIAN SCIENCE CONGRESS
Context : PM set to inaugurate the 107th Indian Science Congress (ISC) at University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS), Bangalore.
Theme : “Science and Technology: Rural Development”. More in the news : Prime Minister Modi will deliver the inaugural address on the occasion and also launch I-STEM Portal on
the occasion. More than 15,000 participants, including Nobel Laureates, scientists, intellectuals, academicians, policy makers, researchers, students and delegates from different institutions are expected to participate in the
event. The ISC is organised by the Indian Science Congress Association (ISCA).
Indian Science Congress Association (ISCA): The ISCA was formed in 1914 and is a premier scientific organisation in India. It organises the ISC every year in the first week of January. Its first meeting was held in the Asiatic Society, Kolkata. It is headquartered in Kolkata. The ISCA was started by two British chemists, Professor J. L. Simonsen and Professor P.S. MacMahon. Starting with just over a hundred members, the ISCA today boasts of a membership of over 60,000.
Objectives of the ISCA: To advance and promote the cause of science in India. To hold an annual congress at a suitable place in India.
To publish such proceedings, journals, transactions and other publications as may be considered desirable. To secure and manage funds and endowments for the promotion of Science including the rights of disposing of or selling all or any portion of the properties of the Association.
Source :- PIB OPTICAL TELESCOPES
Context : The Indian Space Research Organization has signed a pact with Indian Institute of Astrophysics to establish an optical telescope under Project NETRA. Project NETRA : Project NETRA is an early warning system in space to detect debris and other hazards to Indian satellites. Under the project, the ISRO plans to put up many observational facilities: connected radars, telescopes; data processing units and a control centre. They can spot, track and catalogue objects as small as 10 cm up to a range of 3,400 km and equal to a space orbit of around 2,000 km. Need : India has 15 communication satellites active in the geostationary orbit, 13 remote-sensing satellites active in low-earth orbit (2,000 km radius) and eight navigation satellites in medium-earth orbit. Hence, the project plays an important role in protecting Indian satellites from space debris and other hazards. Significance : The project would make India a part of international efforts towards tracking, warning about and mitigating space debris.
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The project will also give India its own capability in space situational awareness (SSA) like the other space powers. Source :- PIB SARAS MK2 Context :
National Aerospace Laboratory has said that the Government of India should buy at least 50-60 Saras Mk2 aircraft to make production commercially viable. Saras Mk2 :
Saras Mk2 is the first Indian multi-purpose civilian aircraft. It is designed by the National Aerospace Laboratories(NAL). The project was started in 1991 and the first prototype was introduced in 2004.However,the project was
scrapped after the aircraft crashed in 2009. In 2017,the project was again revived. The upgraded SARAS PT1N completed its test flight in 2018. Key Features :
The aircraft falls in the light transport aircraft category. It is capable of executing both day and night missions. It can be used for transporting civilians, freight and in remote sensing exercises.
It can take off and land from semi-prepared airfields and even on grass runways. The aircraft has been designed to travel at 425 km/h and it has a maximum continuous flight time of around five hours. Source :- The Hindu ISRO‟S ASTRONAUT TRAINING HUB
Context : According to an update from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), a world-class facility for the training of astronauts will come up in Challakere in Chitradurga district of Karnataka.
More in the news : Challakere will be the single-stop consolidating infrastructure and activities related to space travellers. Currently, Human Spaceflight Programme (HSP) work is split across various centres such as the Vikram
Sarabhai Space Centre in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala and the U.R. Rao Satellite Centre in Bengaluru. Challakere will also host work related to crew and service modules of the spacecraft that carries the astronauts.
The first set of four astronaut candidates for the Gaganyaan mission of 2022 are to train in Russia. For such programmes, the country pays a large amount of money to avail space training facilities abroad.
Challakere : Challakere is a city in Chitradurga district in the state of Karnataka. India. It is called Oil city with numerous edible oil mills around the city. Challakere is famous for kambali (woven blankets) made by the local Kuruba people. It is also known as the "second Mumbai" of India because it is the second-largest producer/supplier of edible oil after Mumbai. There are as many as 60+ oil industries in Challakere. Premier scientific establishments :
It is also Called the Science City, it houses facilities of the ISRO, the Defence Research & Development Organisation‘s Advanced Aeronautical Test Range, the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre and the Indian Institute of Science.
Source :- The Hindu
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NSE KNOWLEDGE HUB Context : Union Commerce minister has inaugurated the NSE Knowledge Hub. NSE Knowledge Hub : The ‗NSE Knowledge Hub‘ is an Artificial Intelligence(AI) powered learning ecosystem. The platform has been developed by NSE Academy, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the National Stock Exchange(NSE). This platform seeks to assist the banking, financial, securities and insurance (BFSI) sector in enhancing skills for their employees. It also aims to help the academic institutions in preparing future-ready talent skilled for the financial services industry.
The platform will also be available on mobile and will attempt to bring together world-class content and learners through this state- of-the-art and future-ready platform. Source :- PIB
INDIGENOUS MOLECULAR DIAGNOSTIC TOOL Context : The World Health Organisation (WHO) has endorsed TrueNat which is an indigenous molecular diagnostic tool for tuberculosis(TB) diagnosis. TrueNat: It was developed by Goa-based Molbio Diagnostics. TrueNat is a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based test that, by assaying the genes present in the TB bacteria, can not only detect the presence of the bacteria but can also detect drug resistance with the use of chips. The DNA of the TB bacteria is extracted from the sputum samples collected from the patient and the test can easily and cost-effectively be done in the primary health care setup. It was found to be comparable in accuracy to similar tests currently in use and has been recommended as a replacement for sputum microscopy tests. Tuberculosis (TB) : Tuberculosis(TB) is an infectious airborne bacterial disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
When TB infection becomes resistant to the first line of treatment — isoniazid and rifampicin it is called Multi-drug resistant TB (MDR-TB). However, when the infection becomes resistant even to the second-line treatment it is called Extensively-drug resistant tuberculosis (XDR-TB). According to the Global Tuberculosis Report 2019,India had 26.9 lakh TB patients in 2018. TB kills an estimated 4.8 lakh Indians every year and more than 1,400 every day. India has the highest TB burden in the world and also has more than a million ‗missing‘ cases every year that are not notified.
TB In India : According to the Global Tuberculosis Report 2019, India had 26.9 lakh TB patients in 2018. According to the National Strategic Plan for TB Elimination 2017-2025, TB kills an estimated 4,80,000 Indians every year and over 1,400 every day. India also has over a million ‗missing‘ cases every year that are not notified. Most of the cases remain either undiagnosed or inadequately diagnosed and treated in the private sector. Source :- The Hindu ISRO‟S COMMUNICATION SATELLITE GSAT-30 Context : ISRO will launch GSAT-30 onboard Ariane-5 launch vehicle (VA 251) from French Guiana on January 17
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GSAT-30 It has been designed and manufactured by the Indian Space Research Organisation It is an operational communication satellite for DTH, television uplink and VSAT services. It will replace the INSAT-4A satellite currently used by cable operators to broadcast their channel overseas. GSAT-30 has a mission life of 15 years Application : High-quality television, telecommunications and broadcasting services to the mainland and India‘s islands. Extended coverage in the C-band, which helps television broadcasters beam their programs across India, Gulf countries, number of Asian countries and Australia Has one Ku-band beacon downlink signal for ground tracking purposes. Source :- PIB ; The Hindu ISRO‟S NAVIC
Context : A homegrown satellite navigation system developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (or ISRO) is set to find its way into mobile phone systems sold in India. NavIC in Mobile Phones : The international body 3GPP (the mobile communications standards body) has approved our NavIC to be included in mobiles. So very soon all our mobiles are going to have NavIC along with GPS ISRO‘s satellite navigation system NavIC is set to become the backbone of a public vehicle tracking system in India since it offers flexibility to local law enforcement agencies to monitor vehicles unlike international systems like the GPS Background : In April 2019, the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways made NavIC-based vehicle trackers mandatory for all commercial vehicles in the country in accordance with the Nirbhaya case verdict. Nirbhaya case verdict which required the installation of vehicle tracking systems and panic buttons in all commercial vehicles.
The NavIC system has already been installed in over 2,000 trains in the country as part of a real-time information system for the Indian Railways on the movement of trains.
Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS): NavIC IRNSS (NavIC) is an independent regional navigation satellite system developed by the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO). It provides accurate position information service to users in India as well as the region extending up to 1500 km from its boundary which is its primary service area The space segment consists of the IRNSS constellation of eight satellites, NavIC Application : Terrestrial, Aerial and Marine Navigation Disaster Management
Vehicle tracking and fleet management Integration with mobile phones Precise Timing
Mapping and Geodetic data capture Terrestrial navigation aid for hikers and travelers Visual and voice navigation for drivers.
Source :- Indian Express
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DRDO YOUNG SCIENTISTS LABORATORIES Context : Prime Minister Narendra Modi has dedicated 5 DRDO Young Scientist Laboratories (DYSLs) to the nation. DRDO Young Scientist Laboratories (DYSLs) The DYSLs are located in five cities: Bengaluru, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata and Hyderabad. These labs will work on a key advanced technology of importance to the development of futuristic defence systems. This includes Artificial intelligence, Quantum technologies, Cognitive technologies, Asymmetric technologies and Smart materials.
DRDO : DRDO is India‘s premier organization for research related to defence technology. It is under administrative control of Department of Defence Research and Development, Ministry of Defence. It was established in 1958 and is headquartered in New Delhi.
Source :- PIB IUPAC BUREAU MEMBER Context :
Bipul Behari Saha has been elected as a bureau member of the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) for the period 2020-23. He is the only second Indian after CNR Rao to be elected for this position. IUPAC: The International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) was established in the year 1919. It is headquartered in Zürich, Switzerland. It has the responsibility of naming all new elements and compounds, declare atomic weights and physical constants, update Periodic table and carry out research projects. It is an international federation of National Adhering Organizations that represents chemists in individual countries. It is also a member of the International Council for Science (ICSU).
Periodic Table: The Periodic Table was first published by the Russian scientist Dmitry Mendeleev in 1969.
The table is an arrangement of all the elements known to man in accordance with their increasing atomic number and recurring chemical properties. There are 118 confirmed elements in the periodic table. Hydrogen is the lightest element with its
atomic weight 1.Uranium is the heaviest naturally occurring element with an atomic weight of 238.
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Source :- Hindu Business Line PUNE -MUMBAI HYPERLOOP Context : The proposed Pune-Mumbai Hyperloop project,an ultra-modern transport system may be scrapped by the Maharashtra government. Hyperloop technology :
Hyperloop is a proposed mode of transportation that moves freight and people quickly, safely, on-demand and direct from origin to destination. The concept was first proposed by Elon Musk,CEO of the aerospace firm SpaceX.
Working of Hyperloop : Hyperloop technology comprises of a network of tubes through which a pod may travel free of air resistance or friction conveying people or objects from one point to another.
The system is fully autonomous and sealed, so no driver-related error is anticipated.In a sealed environment with almost no air resistance,the pods are expected to reach very high speeds of around 700 mph or 1,125 km/h.
Mumbai-Pune Hyper loop Project: In 2018,Maharashtra Government had approved the Mumbai-Pune Hyper loop project. The responsibility of the project was given to the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority
(PMRDA) which announced that the project will be implemented in two phases. However, the current government has said that Hyper loop project will be implemented after it has been successfully implemented elsewhere in the world. Source :- Indian Express GS PAPER - 03 SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY - Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, robotics, nano-technology, bio-technology INDIAN DATA RELAY SATELLITES Context :
India plans to ring in its own era of space-to-space tracking and communication of its space assets in 2020 by putting up a new satellite series called the Indian Data Relay Satellite System (IDRSS). Indian Data Relay System (IDRSS ):
IDRSS is a set of satellites that will track, send and receive information from other Indian satellites. The IDRSS is planned to track and be constantly in touch with Indian satellites, in particular those in low- earth orbits which have limited coverage of earth.
IDRSS satellites of the 2,000 kg class would be launched on the GSLV launcher to geostationary orbits around 36,000 km away. 111
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A satellite in GEO covers a third of the earth below and three of them can provide total coverage. Significance : In the coming years, it will be vital to Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), whose roadmap is dotted with advanced LEO missions such as space docking, space station, as well as distant expeditions to moon, Mars and Venus. It will also be useful in monitoring launches. The first beneficiary would be the prospective crew members of the Gaganyaan mission of 2022 who can be fully and continuously in touch with mission control throughout their travel. The countries with relay satellite systems:
TDRS (Tracking & Data Relay Satellites): USA Satellite Data Relay Network: Russia
European Data Relay System: Europe Tianlian II series: China Gaganyaan Mission: It is India‘s first Human Space Flight Programme to be launched by Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) by 2022. Source :- The Hindu
GERANIUM Context : Scientists from Council of Scientific and Industrial Research- Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CSIR-CIMAP), have developed a new low-cost technology to prepare Geranium saplings. Geranium: Geranium plant is originally from South Africa and is predominantly used in manufacturing essential oils. It acts as an anti-inflammatory and antiseptic agent. It also has several medicinal values. In India, the plant is cultivated in Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and North Eastern Regions. More about the news Technology : This new technology has been developed under the Aroma Mission of CSIR. Currently, the geranium cultivation is being done in aerated glass houses. With the help of the new technology, geranium can be cultivated at farms just like every other crop. Further, another problem of Geranium cultivation is the availability of saplings. The saplings become expensive as the crop gets ruined in the rainy season. With the new technology, the saplings can easily be obtained as they are being cultivated in open farms.
Aroma mission: Council of Scientific and Industrial Research(CSIR) had launched the Aroma mission to boost
cultivation of aromatic crops and medicinal plants. Aromatic plants are a special kind of plants used for their aroma and flavour. Many of them are also used for medicinal purposes such as rosemary, lavender, lemongrass among others. The mission aims to develop superior aroma crop varieties and their agro-technologies. The mission also facilitates the assessment of their suitability for large scale cultivation in specific agro-climatic regions.
Source :- Hindu Business Line
ARTEMIS MISSIONS
Context : NASA has added 11 new astronauts to its ranks as it gets ready for future Artemis missions to the Moon and to Mars.
ARTEMIS ARTEMIS stands for Acceleration, Reconnection, Turbulence and Electrodynamics of the Moon‘s Interaction with the Sun.
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NASA wants to send the first woman and the next man to the Moon by the year 2024. NASA‘s ultimate aim with Artemis is to send humans to Mars and this is likely to take place in mid- 2030s. Objective : Establishing of lunar outpost Investigating the Moon‘s resources and how they might be exploited Using Moon as a base to explore Mars and further into deep space Broaden commercial and international partnerships Inspire a new generation and encourage careers in STEM Source :- Indian Express
CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE IN BLOCKCHAIN TECHNOLOGY Context : The National Informatics Centre(NIC) will set up block chain technology centre in Bengaluru. Center of Excellence in Blockchain Technology : CoE in Blockchain Technology aims to provide Blockchain as a service and allowing all stakeholders to benefit from shared learning, experiences and resources.
The CoE has developed Blockchain based Proof of Concepts (PoCs) for select government use cases to understand potential benefits provided by this emerging technology. The Centre of Excellence will facilitate the Government Departments in building proof of concepts for use of Blockchain technology in different dimensions of governance leading to large scale deployment of
some such applications. With National Informatics Centre (NIC) providing a robust and an agile infrastructure, the CoE shall also provide Blockchain as a Service (BaaS) for efficient hosting of Blockchain network.
Block chain: Block chain is a digital, immutable, distributed ledger that chronologically records transactions in near real time. In simple words, it is interlinked and continuously expanding list of records stored securely across a number of interconnected systems.
National Informatics Centre(NIC): The National Informatics Centre (NIC) is an institute set up by the Indian government in 1976 to drive its technology and e-governance initiatives in the country. The institute is part of the Indian Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology‘s Department. The centre has been a premier technology advisor be it the introduction of ICT in Government, establishment of NICNET or National Knowledge Network(NKN). Source :- PIB
XENOBOT Context : Scientists in the United States have created the world‘s first ―living machines‖ — tiny robots built from
the cells of the African clawed frog, that can move around on their own. Xenobot It is a biological machine named after the African clawed frog (Xenopus laevis).
The species of aquatic frog found across sub-Saharan Africa from Nigeria and Sudan to South Africa, Xenopus laevis. Significance :
It could help the development of useful soft robots that can heal themselves when damaged. Because they are made of living tissue, they also decay once they stop working.
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In future, such living robots could be used to clean up microplastics, digest toxic materials, or even deliver drugs inside human bodies Source:- Indian Express
HAEMORRHAGIC SEPTICAEMIA Context : Around 40 buffaloes have died within four days due to suspected Sahana disease (hemorrhagic septicemia) in a number of villages located in the Garadapur block of Odisha‘s Kendrapara. Hemorrhagic septicemia : Hemorrhagic septicemia is a severe bacterial disease caused by certain strains(Pasteurella multocida). It affects cattle and water buffaloes with a high mortality rate in infected animals. Primary symptoms include swishing tails, reduced cudding, undigested food in faces and reduced milk yield The disease is also spread through contact with infected animals, contaminated clothing, equipment, and through ingestion or inhalation of the bacteria Source:- Down To Earth INDIAN RAILWAYS‟ FIRST WASTE TO ENERGY PLANT Context :
The first waste to energy plant of Indian Railways has been commissioned by the East Coast Railways(ECoR). Waste to energy plant: The waste to energy plant converts waste collected from the garbage disposal units into carbon powder, diesel and gas using Poly Crack Technology. The diesel oil is to be sold by the Railways to other stakeholders for commercial purposes. The gas and carbon powder are to be used in brick manufacturing. Further, the plant also does not leave any waste at the end.
Poly crack technology: Poly crack technology is a process which converts multiple feed stocks into hydrocarbon liquid fuels, gas, carbon and water. The benefit of this process is that it does not require pre-segregation.
However, it requires a larger area for processing.
Source:- Times of India NEW SOLAR ORBITER Context : NASA, in collaboration with the European Space Agency (ESA), will launch Solar Orbiter spacecraft on 7th February 2020 to get the first-ever pictures of the Sun‘s north and south poles.
Solar Orbiter: To perform close-up, high-resolution studies of Sun and inner heliosphere. Objective:
Study solar wind and where does the coronal magnetic field originate from Study how solar transients drive heliospheric variability Study how solar eruptions produce energetic particle radiation that fills the heliosphere
Understand how the solar dynamo work and drive connections between the Sun and the heliosphere.
Mission Sun : Parker Solar Probe: It was launched in 2018 by NASA. It seeks to trace how energy and heat move through the solar corona and explore what accelerates the solar wind as well as solar energetic particles.
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Ulysses spacecraft:
It was launched in 1990 by NASA and ESA.
It made three complete orbits of the Sun and helped determine that the Sun‘s magnetic field
―reverses‖ in direction every 11 years. Aditya L1: It will be India‟s first satellite to study the sun. It is scheduled to be launched in 2021.
It aims to study the Sun‘s corona (outer layer of the sun) from a halo orbit around the Sun-Earth Lagrangian point 1. Source:- The Hindu
GS PAPER - 03 SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY - developing new technology.
HYPERSONIC
Context : On December 27, 2019, Russia announced that its new hypersonic glide vehicle (HGV), Avangard, launched atop an intercontinental ballistic missile, had been made operational.
Avangard Hypersonic Glide Vehicle : Russian Avangard nuclear-armed HGV can fly at over 20 times the speed of sound. It is capable of such manoeuvring as to be ―invulnerable to interception by any existing and prospective
missile defence means of the potential adversary‖. With this induction, it appears that Russia has beaten the U.S. and China in deploying the HGV. But China and the U.S. are also close on the heels: the U.S. has moved from the research to the development stage, and China demonstrated the DF-17, a medium-range missile with the HGV, at the military parade in October 2019. Hypersonic : A hypersonic delivery system is essentially a ballistic or cruise missile that can fly for long distances and at speeds higher than 5 Mach at lower altitudes. This allows it to evade interception from current Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD). It can also execute a high degree of manoeuvres. Hypersonic complicate security concerns : If these missiles are being added to the military capabilities of countries that possess nuclear weapons. For these nations, the concern is always an attack on nuclear assets to degrade retaliation. Another layer of complication is added by the fact that these missiles bring in warhead and
destination ambiguities. when an adversary‘s early warning detects such missiles headed in its direction, but cannot be sure whether they are conventional or nuclear-armed, nor ascertain the target they are headed
towards, the tendency would be to assume the worst. A country with a BMD but itself has a small nuclear arsenal, it would fear that even conventionally armed hypersonic missiles could destroy a portion of its nuclear assets. The tendency could then be to shift to more trigger-ready postures such as launch on warning or launch under attack to ostensibly enhance deterrence. But such shifts would also bring risks of misperception and miscalculation in moments of crisis. Offence -defence spiral : According to reports, the U.S. has begun finding ways of either strengthening its BMD or looking for countermeasures to defeat hypersonics, besides having an arsenal of its own of the same kind. The stage appears set for an arms race instability given that the three major players in this game have the financial wherewithal and technological capability to play along. Counter-measures to hypersonics have been envisaged through placement of sensors and interceptors in outer space. Source:- The Hindu
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GS PAPER - 03 SECURITY - Challenges to internal security through communication networks, role of media and social networking sites in internal security challenges, basics of cyber security; money-laundering and its prevention.
MAHARASHTRA -KARNATAKA BORDER Context : The long-standing Maharashtra-Karnataka border dispute over the status of Belagavi district witnessed a reigniting of tensions. Belgaum dispute:
The dispute between Maharashtra and Karnataka over Belgaum and other border areas is a longstanding
issue between the two states. The erstwhile Bombay Presidency had included the present-day Karnataka districts of Bijapur, Belgaum, Dharwar and Uttara-Kannada (previously North Kanara).
In 1948,the Belgaum municipality requested that the district having a predominantly Marathi-speaking population be incorporated into the proposed Maharashtra state. However,the States Reorganisation Act of 1956 which divided states on linguistic and administrative
lines made Belgaum a part of the then Mysore State(which was renamed Karnataka in 1973). The Maharashtra government contested the inclusion of Belgaum in Karnataka and lodged a protest with the Central Government in September 1957.
This led to the formation of the Mahajan Commission under former Chief Justice Mehr Chand Mahajan in October 1966. Mahajan Commission: The commission recommended that 264 villages be transferred to Maharashtra and that Belgaum and 247 villages remain with Karnataka. However, Maharashtra rejected the report and continues to claim over 865 villages along the border as well as Belgaum city which are currently part of Karnataka. Source :- The Hindu GS PAPER - 03 SECURITY - Various Security forces and agencies and their mandate
CHIEF OF DEFENCE STAFF Context : General Bipin Rawat has been appointed as the first Chief of Defence Staff (CDS). Chief Defence Staff : It is a permanent position for a combined head of the tri-services i.e. Army, Navy and Air Force. The CDS will be a Four-star General. Roles and Function : Be the principal military adviser to the Defence Minister on all tri-service matters. Be one of the permanent Chairman of the Chiefs of Staff Committee. As a permanent chair, CDS will: Administer all tri-service organisations and commands. 116
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Be a member of the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) chaired by the Defence Minister Be a member of the Defence Planning Committee headed by the National Security Adviser (NSA). Function as the Military Adviser to the Nuclear Command Authority. Implement the five year Defence Capital Acquisition Plan (DCAP) and the two year roll on
Annual Acquisition Plans. Coordinate operation, logistics, transport, training, support services communications, etc. of the three Services
CDS will also head the Department of Military Affairs (DMA), to be created within the Ministry of Defence and function as its Secretary. The mandate includes: Promoting jointness in procurement, training and staffing for the Services Facilitating restructuring of Military Commands for optimal utilisation of resources Promoting the use of indigenous equipment by the Services. Source :- Indian Express OPERATION SANKALP Context :
Indian Navy had commenced Maritime Security Operations code named Operation SANKALP in the Gulf Region in Jun 2019 to ensure safe passage of Indian Flag Vessels transiting through the Strait of Hormuz.
Operation SANKALP : Indian Navy had initiated ‗Operation Sankalp in the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman as a measure to ensure the safety and security of Indian ships.
The operation was initiated in the aftermath of escalating tension in the Gulf of Oman where two oil tankers were attacked. Further, the tensions in the Middle East are again on the rise after the US had killed Iran‘s major general Qasem Soleimani in a drone strike Indian Navy Ships INS Chennai and INS Sunayna were deployed to undertake maritime security operations in the Gulf of Oman and the Gulf of Persia. Furthermore, Indian Naval aircraft aerial surveillance is also being carried out in the region. Source :- PIB TEJAS LIGHT COMBAT AIRCRAFT Context : In a major landmark for indigenous Indian aviation, the naval version of the Tejas light combat aircraft
(LCA) landed for the first time on an aircraft carrier, INS Vikramaditya. More in the news : This takes India into a select group of nations — the US, UK, Russia, France, and China — that have
developed aircraft capable of landing and taking off from the severely constrained confines of an aircraft carrier deck, which is barely 200 metres long. During World War II, Japan too had developed carrier-capable fighters, but has not done so thereafter.
Light Combat Aircraft(LCA) : LCA Tejas has been built under the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) program, which began in the 1980s to replace India‘s aging MiG-21 fighters. It is designed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) and developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
It is a single-seat, single-jet engine, multi-role light fighter.Its design is highly manoeuvrable with a tailless, compound delta wing configuration. It has stronger landing gears which can absorb forces exerted by the ski jump ramp during take-off.
It also has the capability to be airborne within 200m, as against 1000 m required for normal runways.
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INS Vikramaditya:
INS Vikramaditya is a modified Kiev-class aircraft carrier.It served with the Soviet Navy and later with
the Russian Navy.
It was commissioned into the Indian Navy in 2013 from Russia. The aircraft carrier is 284mts long.It has a displacement of 40,000 tons and is the biggest and heaviest in the Indian Navy fleet.
The warship can also carry planes such as MiG-29K,Kamov-31 and Chetak helicopters.
Source :- Business Standard COAST GUARD SHIPS
Context : Two Indian Coast Guard Ships (ICGS) namely Annie Besant and Amrit Kaur were commissioned by Defence Secretary.
ICGS Annie Besant: ICGS Annie Besant was named in honour of Annie Besant, philanthropist, theosophist, prolific author and supporter of the Indian freedom struggle.
The ship will be based at Chennai under the operational and administrative control of the Commander, Coast Guard Region (East). ICGS Amrit Kaur:
ICGS Amrit Kaur derives the name from Rajkumari Amrit Kaur, who belonged to the ruling family of Kapurthala, Punjab. She took an active part in the ‗Salt Satyagraha‘ and ‗Quit India Movement‘ and served Independent India as its first Health Minister. The ship will be based at Haldia under the operational and administrative control of the Commander, Coast Guard Region (North East). Key Features : The ships are 48.9 metres long and 7.5 metres wide with a displacement of 308 tonnes. The ships are capable of achieving a maximum speed of 34 knots. They are fitted with state-of-the-art technology, navigation and communication equipment, sensors and machinery. They are also capable of undertaking multifaceted tasks such as surveillance, interdiction, search and rescue and medical evacuation. They are also equipped with Bofors 40/60 guns and 12.7 mm SRCGs (Stabilised Remote Controlled Gun) for enhancing the fighting efficiency of the ship. Source :- The Hindu HFHSD – IN 512
Context : A new fuel (High Flash High-Speed Diesel) HFHSD – IN 512, with revised technical specifications, has been launched for pan Navy implementation. Background : One of the Key Result Area for the Indian Navy has been fuel quality standards revision to keep pace with the induction of new technology equipment and meet contemporary emission standards. With the advent of technology and refining techniques in the petroleum industry better quality of fuel abiding to more stringent specifications has become a necessity. Hence, continuous improvement in the technical specification for diesel is the primary focus area. Leveraging technology and improved refining techniques available with the country‘s petroleum industry, the Indian Navy in collaboration with M/s (Indian Oil Corporation) IOCL carried out an extensive and thorough study and a comparative evaluation of existing international regulations. As an outcome, a new fuel (High Flash High-Speed Diesel) HFHSD – IN 512, with revised technical specifications, has been launched.
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Impact of HFHSD – IN 512 The new fuel specification will ensure both, better quality fuel and also result in a reduced carbon footprint. India will be able to ensure interoperability amongst foreign navies during fleet exercises and provide fuel of quality better than that mandated to all foreign navies under bilateral/ multi-national logistics support pacts including LEMOA (Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement). The successful introduction of the new fuel is a landmark occasion highlighting the enormous potential which exists within the country to produce world-class products.
This effort would also benefit other M/s IOCL consumers in the country like Indian Coast Guard and other merchant marines in the coming years. The achievement would also mark a new high with quality fuel available to all foreign Navy ships at
Indian ports during exercises with the Indian Navy. This revolutionary initiative would go a long way in enhancing equipment reliability, performance, reduced carbon footprint, emissions and more importantly, would be a key enabler in the Navy‘s ‗Mission
Based Deployment‘ on a global scale. Source :- PIB SAHYOG-KAIJIN Context : The Coast Guards of India and Japan took part in a joint exercise ‗Sahyog-Kaijin‘ off the Chennai coast. Sahyog-kaijin: Exercise Sahyog-Kaijin is a joint exercise between India and Japanese Coast Guards. The exercise is aimed at further strengthening bilateral ties and mutual understanding between the two coast guards. It also aims to enhance interoperability in communication, search and rescue procedures and sharing of best practices. Source :- Business Standard K9 VAJRA-T GUN Context :
Defence Minister has flagged off the 51st K-9 Vajra-T gun at the Larsen and Toubro Armoured Systems Complex at Hazira, Surat. K-9 Vajra:
The K9 Vajra has been developed by Larsen and Toubro(L&T) Armoured Systems. It has been developed under the Buy Global programme of Defence Procurement Procedure(DPP) where foreign companies are allowed to participate.In this case Hanwha Techwin of South Korea is the technology partner of L&T. Key Features : The K9 Vajra is a tracked self-propelled howitzer which has its roots in the K9 Thunder which is the mainstay of the South Korean Army. It weighs 50 tonnes and can fire 47kg bombs at 43-kilometre distant targets.It can also turn around at zero radius. The gun offers a high rate of fire at a long range and is compatible with Indian and standard NATO ammunition. Source :- PIB BLUE CORNER NOTICE Context:
Interpol has issued a Blue Corner notice to help locate fugitive self-styled godman Nithyananda after the Gujarat Police had sought the agency‘s intervention.
Interpol : The International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL) is an intergovernmental organization
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established in 1923.It is headquartered at Lyon, France.
It facilitates worldwide police cooperation and crime control in around 194 countries.
Each of the member countries hosts an INTERPOL National Central Bureau(NCB). This connects their national law enforcement with other countries and with the General Secretariat of Interpol. The Central Bureau of Investigation(CBI) is designated as the National Central Bureau of India.
What is a „Blue Corner‟ notice?
According to the Interpol website, ―Notices are international requests for cooperation or alerts allowing police in member countries to share critical crime-related information.‖ Types of Notices :
Source:-The Hindu
DHANUSH Context : The Dhanush gun system was showcased for the first time at the 71st Republic Day parade.
Dhanush: Dhanush is the first indigenous long-range artillery gun developed by Ordnance Factory Board(OFB) and manufactured by the Gun Carriage Factory.
It is the first long-range artillery gun to be produced in India and has been billed as a success of the government‘s Make in India initiative. The gun is a 155 mm-45 caliber gun with a maximum range of 36.5 km and the capability of automatic
alignment and positioning. It is equipped with inertial navigation-based sighting system, auto-laying facility, onboard ballistic computation and an advanced day and night direct firing system. Source:- Indian Express OPERATION VANILLA
Context : Indian Navy has launched 'Operation Vanilla' to provide support in view of the torrential rains and floods that have ravaged Madagascar.
Operation Vanilla: The Navy has sent the INS Airavat, a large amphibious ship to provide assistance. Further, this operation is also in line with Prime Minister‘s vision of ‗Security and Growth for all in the
Region(SAGAR).
INS Airavat: INS Airavat is the third Shardul-class amphibious warfare vessel of the Indian Navy. It was built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers in Kolkata.
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Madagascar:
Madagascar is an island country in the Indian Ocean approximately 400 kilometres off the coast of East Africa. It is the fourth largest island in the world. Madagascar is also a member of inter-governmental organisation Indian Ocean Rim Association(IORA).
Source:- The Hindu
GOVERNMENT OWNED CONTRACTOR OPERATED MODEL Context :
The Army has started identifying potential industry partners to implement the Government Owned Contractor Operated (GOCO) model for its base workshops and ordnance depots GOCO Model :
The GOCO model was one of the recommendations of the Lt. Gen. DB Shekatkar (Retd.) committee to enhance combat capability and re-balancing defence expenditure. In GOCO model, the assets owned by government will be operated by the private industries.
The Private companies need not make investments on land, machinery and other support systems. The missions are set by government and the private sectors are given full independence in implementing the missions using their best practices.
Significance : The main advantage of the model is that the targets are achieved in lesser time frame. It will also boost the competitiveness among the private entities.
It also helps in reducing government expenditure on armed forces and increase combat capability of the army. Source :- The Hindu NO OBJECTION CERTIFICATE WEB PORTAL Context : The Defence Minister launched the Ministry of Defence (MoD) No Objection Certificate (NOC) web portal for undertaking aerial survey with the final permission of Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
NOC web Portal : The portal will be used by various vendors engaged by State Governments/Public Sector Undertakings/Autonomous bodies in seeking an NOC from the MoD.
The portal is hosted on the National Informatics Centre platform. Through this initiative, the Ministry will be able to considerably reduce the time usually taken in issuing NOC.
Among other benefits, this initiative will help in speeding up developmental projects undertaken by various agencies. Further, this will also ensure expeditious disposal of applications for carrying out aerial survey, besides
bringing in more transparency and accuracy. The DGCA has been requested to issue suitable notification to all concerned so that the applicants/vendors could submit their applications online on the newly developed web portal.
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To facilitate the applicants/vendors, an e-book has also been uploaded on the above web portal. Source :- PIB
GS PAPER - 03 SECURITY - Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India's interests
MILAN 2020 Context :
Visakhapatnam is set to host an International Naval event ‗MILAN‘ in March 2020. MILAN 2020 : MILAN 2020 is a multilateral naval exercise aimed to enhance professional interaction between friendly
foreign navies and learn from each other‘s strengths and best practices in the maritime domain. The Exercise with the theme „Synergy Across the Seas‟ would provide an excellent opportunity for Operational Commanders of friendly foreign navies to interact with each other in areas of mutual interest.
Of the 41 navies invited, confirmations from over 30 navies have been received towards their participation in MILAN 2020. MILAN stands for Multilateral Naval Exercise.
The event consists of a sea phase and a harbour phase. Source :- PIB
SAMPRITI-IX
Context : A joint military training exercise between India and Bangladesh ‗SAMPRITI-IX‘ will be conducted at Umroi, Meghalaya from 3rd-16th february, 2020.
Exercise SAMPRITI : Exercise SAMPRITI is an important bilateral defence cooperation endeavour between India and Bangladesh and will be the ninth edition of the exercise which is hosted alternately by both countries.
The exercise was first held in Assam in 2011. During the exercise, a Command Post Exercise (CPX) and a Field Training Exercise (FTX) will be conducted.
For both the CPX and FTX, a scenario where both nations are working together in a Counter-Terrorism environment will be simulated under the UN Charter. A joint tactical exercise will be conducted wherein the battle drills of both the armies will be practiced. Source:- PIB
GS PAPER - 03 SECURITY - Achievement of Indians in science & technology; indigenization of technology and developing new technology.
K-4 SUBMARINE-LAUNCHED BALLISTIC MISSILE Context : India successfully test-fired the 3,500 km strike range nuclear-capable K-4 submarine-launched ballistic missile off the coast of Andhra Pradesh. K-4 missile: K-4 is a nuclear-capable Intermediate-range submarine-launched ballistic missile. The missile has been developed by India‘s Defence Research and Development Organisation(DRDO). The missile has a maximum range of about 3500 km.It is powered by solid rocket propellants. The missile is to be fitted into the indigenously built Arihant-class nuclear-powered submarines of the Indian Navy. Only the US, Russia and China have submarine-launched ballistic missiles of 3,500-kilometre range. Significance : The K-4 missile has a Circular Error Probability(CEP) of 40 metres or less which is much more sophisticated than Chinese missile
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Circular Error Probability(CEP) is an indicator of the delivery accuracy of a weapon system.It is used as a factor in determining probable damage to a target. Source :- The Hindu
GS PAPER - 03 DISASTER MANAGEMENT - Disaster and disaster management. CANNOT PREVENT EARTHQUAKES, BUT WE CAN MINIMIZE THE DAMAGE: MOES Context : ● The Ministry of Earth Science has launched Seismic Hazard Microzonation project in major cities of India. Seismic Hazard Microzonation : Aim : The project aims to reduce hazards of seismic activities by putting in adequate measures. Seismic Hazard Microzonation is the process of identifying the earthquake prone areas based on its geological and geophysical characteristics. The characteristics include ground shaking, landslides, liquefaction susceptibility, rockfall hazard and flooding caused due to earthquakes among others. Based on this division, mitigation measures and preventive methods are prepared to minimize the losses. Currently, the micro zonation has been completed in the State of Sikkim and in other eight cities namely Delhi, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Guwahati, Jabalpur, Dehradun Ahmedabad and Gandhidham. Further, Japan is the best example where microzonation techniques are well implemented. Significance : The technique gives better mitigatory measures as it helps to understand the impact of seismic activities precisely. It can also be helpful in certain places, where no reliable model can be implemented as it helps in
adopting preventive measures. Source:- Hindu Business Line
GS PAPER 03 - AWARD AND ACHIEVEMENTS
PADMA AWARDS WINNERS Context : The government has announced 141 Padma Awards on the occasion of 71st Republic Day.
Padma awards: The Padma Awards are one of the highest civilian honours after the Bharat Ratna announced annually on the eve of Republic Day.
The award is given for distinguished and exceptional achievements in all fields of activities/disciplines. Catego ries of Padma awards: Padma Vibhushan: For Exceptional and distinguished service.
Padma Bhushan: For Distinguished service of high order. Padma Shri: For distinguished service in any field. Padma awards committee:
The committee is constituted by the Prime Minister every year. The Committee is headed by the Cabinet Secretary. It includes Home Secretary, Secretary to the President and 4-6 eminent personalities as its members.
Source:- PIB
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