A peek into the important current Affairs, across various fields/domanins like Science & Technology, Politics etc. Ideal for Civil Services Exam. It also has news updates - both National and International along with views of various burning topics.
A must for all Civil Service Aspirants Feb issue will follow shortly
A peek into the important current Affairs, across various fields/domanins like Science & Technology, Politics etc. Ideal for Civil Services Exam. It also has news updates - both National and International along with views of various burning topics.
A must for all Civil Service Aspirants Feb issue will follow shortly
A peek into the important current Affairs, across various fields/domanins like Science & Technology, Politics etc. Ideal for Civil Services Exam. It also has news updates - both National and International along with views of various burning topics.
A must for all Civil Service Aspirants Feb issue will follow shortly
A peek into the important current Affairs, across various fields/domanins like Science & Technology, Politics etc. Ideal for Civil Services Exam. It also has news updates - both National and International along with views of various burning topics.
A must for all Civil Service Aspirants Feb issue will follow shortly
Editor: Yagya Nand Jha Designed by: Chandan Kumar Raja Chandan Kumar Raja Chandan Kumar Raja Chandan Kumar Raja Chandan Kumar Raja Editorial Office: A 13/A 3rd Floor, Gali No-1, Hardev Nagar Jharoda Majra New Delhi84 CURRENT AFFAIRS National Issues 14 International Issues 22 India & the World 36 Economy 45 Science and Technology 53 Sports 61 Awards & Prizes 72 In the News 82 PAGE NO. 3 PAGE NO. 11 PAGE NO. 123 For Advertisement Contact at : 8826659121 Join us at Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/upscportal.original Follow us at Twitter: http://twitter.com/upscportal PAGE NO. 127 PAGE NO. 7 Disclaimer: Editor and Publisher are not responsible for any view, data, figure etc. expressed in the articles by the author(s). Maps are notational . All Disputes are subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of competent courts and fourms in Delhi/New Delhi only. Selected Articles from Selected Articles from Selected Articles from Selected Articles from Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Various Newspapers & Journals Various Newspapers & Journals Various Newspapers & Journals Various Newspapers & Journals 101 AUGUST, 2012 JANUARY, 2014 I n d e x http://upscportal.com 3 33 33 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com The Mars Orbiter Mission: Step Towards Elite League The Mars Orbiter Mission: Step Towards Elite League The Mars Orbiter Mission: Step Towards Elite League The Mars Orbiter Mission: Step Towards Elite League The Mars Orbiter Mission: Step Towards Elite League Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe Indias First Indias First Indias First Indias First Indias First Interplanetary Mission Interplanetary Mission Interplanetary Mission Interplanetary Mission Interplanetary Mission The Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM), informally called Mangalyaan is a Mars orbiter launched into Earth orbit on 5 November 2013 by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). The 1,337 Kilogram spacecraft carries a suite of five instruments to study Mars, its atmosphere and acquire photos of the Red Planet. The mission is a technology demonstrator project aiming to develop the technologies required for design, planning, management and operations of an interplanetary mission. The Mars Orbiter Mission probe lifted-off from the First Launch Pad at Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh near Chennai, using a Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) rocket C25 at 09:08 UTC (2:38 PM IST) on 5 November 2013.The launch window was approximately 20 days long and started on 28 October 2013.The MOM probe spent about a month in Earth orbit, where it made a series of seven altitude-raising orbital maneuvers before trans-Mars injection. It is Indias first interplanetary mission and, now ISRO has become the fourth space agency to reach Mars, after the Soviet space program, NASA, and European Space Agency. The spacecraft is being currently monitored from the Spacecraft Control Centre at ISRO Telemetry, Tracking and Command Network (ISTRAC) in Bangalore with support from Indian Deep Space Network (IDSN) antennae at Byalalu. Background Background Background Background Background The MOM mission concept began with a feasibility study in 2010, after the launch of lunar satellite Chandrayaan-1 in 2008. The government of India approved the project on 3 August 2012, after the Indian Space Research Organisation completed 125 crore (US$19 million) of required studies for the orbiter. The total project cost may be up to 454 crore (US$69 million). The satellite costs 153 crore (US$23 million) and the rest of the budget has been attributed to ground stations and relay upgrades that will be used for other ISRO projects. The space agency had initially planned the launch on 28 October 2013 but was postponed to 5 November 2013 following the inability of ISROs spacecraft tracking ships to take up pre-determined positions due to poor weather in the Pacific Ocean. Launch opportunities for a fuel-saving Hohmann transfer orbit occur about every 26 months, in this case, 2016 and 2018. The Mars Orbiters on-orbit mission life will be between six and ten months. Assembly of the PSLV-XL launch vehicle, designated C25, started on 5 August 2013. The mounting of the five scientific instruments was completed at ISRO Satellite Centre, Bangalore, and the finished spacecraft was shipped to Sriharikota on 2 October 2013 for integration to the PSLV-XL launch vehicle. The satellites development was fast-tracked and completed in a record 15 months. Despite the U.S. federal government shutdown, NASA reaffirmed on 5 October 2013 it would provide communications and navigation support to the mission. ISRO chairman stated in T H E
M A R S
O R B I T E R
M I S S I O N :
S T E P T O W A R D S
E L I T E
L E A G U E http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 4 44 44 http://upscportal.com The Mars Orbiter Mission: Step Towards Elite League The Mars Orbiter Mission: Step Towards Elite League The Mars Orbiter Mission: Step Towards Elite League The Mars Orbiter Mission: Step Towards Elite League The Mars Orbiter Mission: Step Towards Elite League Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe November 2013 that if the MOM and NASAs orbiter MAVEN were successful, they would complement each other in findings and help understand Mars better. P. Kunhikrishnan was the PSLV- XL spacecraft launch Mission Director. Mylswamy Annadurai is the Program Director and Subbiah Arunan is the Project Director. S. K. Shivkumar of ISAC was responsible for the orbiting payload and also oversaw design and development of the orbiter. Obj ecti ves Obj ecti ves Obj ecti ves Obj ecti ves Obj ecti ves The specific objectives of the Mars Orbiter Mission are primarily associated with spacecraft construction and mission operations as Mangalyaan serves as a pathfinder, being Indias first mission beyond the Moon which brings its own unique challenges such as the 20-minute average signal delay to Mars. The Indian Space Science Data Center has provided the following Mission Objectives: Develop the technologies required for design, planning, management and operations of an interplanetary mission. Orbit maneuvers to transfer the spacecraft from an elliptical Earth orbit to a heliocentric trajectory and finally insert it into Mars orbit. Development of force models and algorithms for orbit and attitude computations and analyses. Navigation in all mission phases. Maintain the spacecraft in all phases of the Mission meeting Power, Communications, Thermal and Payload requirements. Incorporate autonomous features to handle contingency situations. The following scientific Objectives have been set for the Mars Orbiter Mission: Study climate, geology, origin and evolution of Mars To study sustainability of life on the planet. Mission Design Mission Design Mission Design Mission Design Mission Design Launch & Insertion Launch & Insertion Launch & Insertion Launch & Insertion Launch & Insertion The Mars Orbiter Mission is planned to launch on an Indian Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle flying in its XL configuration. Mangalyaan does not use a direct injection in which the launch vehicle delivers the spacecraft to its Trans-Martian Trajectory. Instead, Mangalyaan is delivered to Earth orbit from where it uses its own propulsion system to insert itself into its TMI trajectory over a period of weeks. This design still requires the spacecraft to be launched within a narrow window that is only open for a few days every 26 months. The MOM launch window opens on October 28, 2013 and extends through November 19, 2013. The Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle in its XL Version stands 44.5 meters tall, has a core diameter of 2.8 meters and a liftoff mass of 320,000 Kilograms. It is a four-stage rocket that uses a combination of solid rocket stages and liquid-fueled stages. The launcher can deliver payloads of up to 1,410 Kilograms to Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit and is not capable of delivering payloads of this weight-class to interplanetary trajectories requiring a different approach to Lunar or Mars missions using PSLV. The PSLV launcher consists of a large core stage that is 20.34 meters long and holds 138,000 Kilograms of solid propellant making it one of the largest solid rocket stages ever flown. It provides a whopping thrust of 495,600 Kilograms. Clustered around the core are six Solid Rocket Boosters each being 1 meter in diameter and 13.5 meters long holding 12,000 Kilograms of propellant. Each of the boosters provides 51,250 Kilograms of thrust. The second stage of the launch vehicle uses storable propellants, Unsymmetrical Dimethylhydrazine fuel and Nitrogen Tetroxide oxidizer, that are consumed by a single Vikas 4 engine that provides 81,500kg of vacuum thrust. The stage is 12.8 meters long featuring a 40,700- Kilogram propellant load. The PS3 stage of the PSLV launcher is solid-fueled, being 2.02 meters in diameter and 3.54 meters long holding 6,700 Kilograms of HTPB-based propellant. The third stage provides a total thrust of 24,900 Kilograms. Stacked atop the third stage is the PS4 Upper Stage that again uses hypergolic propellants Monomethylhydrazine fuel and Mixed Oxides of Nitrogen consumed by two L-2-5 engines. The stage is 2.02 meters in diameter and 2.6 meters long featuring a fuel load of 2,920 Kilograms. Upper stage thrust is 1,500 Kilograms. Spacecraft Spacecraft Spacecraft Spacecraft Spacecraft Mass: Mass: Mass: Mass: Mass: The lift-off mass was 1,350 kg (3,000 lb), including 852 kg (1,880 lb) of propellant mass. Dimensions: Dimensions: Dimensions: Dimensions: Dimensions: Cuboid in shape of approximately 1.5 m (4 ft 11 in) Bus: Bus: Bus: Bus: Bus: The spacecrafts bus is a modified I-1 K structure and propulsion hardware configurations similar to Chandrayaan 1, Indias lunar orbiter that operated from 2008 to 2009, with specific improvements and upgrades needed for a Mars mission.The satellite structure is of aluminum and composite fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) sandwich construction. Power: Power: Power: Power: Power: Electric power is generated by three solar array panels of 1.8 m 1.4 m (5 ft 11 in 4 ft 7 in) each (7.56 m2 (81.4 sq ft) total), for a maximum of 840 W generation in Martian orbit. Electricity is stored in a 36 Ah Li-ion battery. http://upscportal.com 5 55 55 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com The Mars Orbiter Mission: Step Towards Elite League The Mars Orbiter Mission: Step Towards Elite League The Mars Orbiter Mission: Step Towards Elite League The Mars Orbiter Mission: Step Towards Elite League The Mars Orbiter Mission: Step Towards Elite League Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe Propulsion: Propulsion: Propulsion: Propulsion: Propulsion: Liquid fuel engine of 440 N thrust is used for orbit raising and insertion in Martian orbit. The orbiter also has eight 22 N thrusters for attitude control or orientation. Communications: Communications: Communications: Communications: Communications: Two 230 W TWTAs and two coherent transponders. The antenna array consists of a low-gain antenna, a medium-gain antenna and a high- gain antenna. The High-gain antenna system is based on a single 2.2 metre reflector illuminated by a feed at S- band. It is used to transmit and receive the telemetry, tracking, commanding and data to and from the Indian Deep Space Network. Payl oad Payl oad Payl oad Payl oad Payl oad The 15 kg (33 lb) scientific payload consists of five instruments. Atmospheric Studies Atmospheric Studies Atmospheric Studies Atmospheric Studies Atmospheric Studies Lyman-Alpha Photometer (LAP) a photometer that measures the relative abundance of deuterium and hydrogen from Lyman-alpha emissions in the upper atmosphere. Measuring the deuterium/hydrogen ratio will allow an estimation of the amount of water loss to outer space. Methane Sensor For Mars (MSM) will measure methane in the atmosphere of Mars, if any, and map its sources. Particle environment studies Particle environment studies Particle environment studies Particle environment studies Particle environment studies Mars Exospheric Neutral Composition Analyser (MENCA) is a quadrupole mass analyser capable of analysing the neutral composition of particles in the exosphere. Surface imaging studies Surface imaging studies Surface imaging studies Surface imaging studies Surface imaging studies Thermal Infrared Imaging Spectrometer (TIS) will measure the temperature and emissivity of the Martian surface, allowing for the mapping of surface composition and mineralogy of Mars. Mars Colour Camera (MCC) will provide images in the visual spectrum, providing context for the other instruments. Telemetry and command Telemetry and command Telemetry and command Telemetry and command Telemetry and command The Indian Space Research Organisation Telemetry, Tracking and Command Network performed navigation and tracking operations for the launch with ground stations at Sriharikota, Port Blair, Brunei and Biak in Indonesia, and after the spacecrafts apogee became more than 100,000 km, two large 18-metre and 32-metre diameter antennas of the Indian Deep Space Network started to be utilised. NASAs Deep Space Network is providing position data through its three stations located in Canberra, Madrid and Goldstone on the U.S. West Coast during the non-visible period of ISROs network. The South African National Space Agencys (SANSA) Hartebeesthoek (HBK) ground station is also providing satellite tracking, telemetry and command services. Additional monitoring is provided by technicians on board two leased ships from the Shipping Corporation of India, SCI Nalanda and SCI Yamuna which are currently in position in the South Pacific near Fiji. Orbit raising manouvers Orbit raising manouvers Orbit raising manouvers Orbit raising manouvers Orbit raising manouvers Several orbit raising operations were conducted from the Spacecraft Control Centre (SCC) at ISRO Telemetry, Tracking and Command Network (ISTRAC) at Peenya, Bangalore on 6, 7, 8, 10, 12 and 16 November by using the spacecrafts on-board propulsion system and Earth flybys for gravity assist. The aim was to gradually build up the necessary escape velocity (11.2 km/ s) to break free from Earths gravitational pull while minimizing propellant use. The first three of the five planned orbit raising manoeuvres were completed with nominal results, while the fourth was partially successful. However, a subsequent supplementary manoeuvre raised the orbit to the intended altitude aimed for in the original fourth manoeuvre. A total of six burns were completed while the spacecraft remained in Earth orbit, with a seventh burn conducted on 30 November to insert MOM into a heliocentric orbit for its transit to Mars. The first orbit-raising manoeuvre was performed on 6 November 2013 at 19:47 UTC when the 440 newtons (99 lbf) liquid engine of the spacecraft was fired for 416 seconds. With this engine firing, the spacecrafts apogee was raised to 28,825 km, with a perigee of 252 km. The second orbit raising manoeuvre was performed on 7 November 2013 at 20:48 UTC, with a burn time of 570.6 seconds resulting in an apogee of 40,186 km. The third orbit raising manoeuvre was performed on 8 November 2013 at 20:40 UTC, with a burn time of 707 seconds resulting in an apogee of 71,636 km. The fourth orbit raising manoeuvre, starting at 20:36 UTC on 10 November 2013, imparted an incremental velocity of 35 m/s to the spacecraft instead of the planned 135 m/s as a result of underburn by the motor.Because of this, the apogee was boosted to 78,276 km instead of the planned 100,000 km. When testing the redundancies built-in for the propulsion system, the flow to the liquid engine stopped, with consequent reduction in incremental velocity. During the fourth orbit burn, the primary and redundant coils of the solenoid flow control valve of 440 Newton liquid engine and logic for thrust augmentation by the attitude control thrusters were being tested. When both primary and redundant coils were energised together during the planned modes, the flow to the http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 6 66 66 http://upscportal.com The Mars Orbiter Mission: Step Towards Elite League The Mars Orbiter Mission: Step Towards Elite League The Mars Orbiter Mission: Step Towards Elite League The Mars Orbiter Mission: Step Towards Elite League The Mars Orbiter Mission: Step Towards Elite League Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe liquid engine stopped. Operating both the coils simultaneously is not possible for future operations, however they could be operated independently of each other, in sequence. As a result of the fourth planned burn coming up short, an additional unscheduled burn was performed on 12 November 2013 that increased the apogee to 118,642 km, a slightly higher altitude than originally intended in the fourth manoeuvre. The apogee was raised to 192,874 km on 15 November 2013, 19:57 UTC in the final orbit raising manoeuvre. Trans-Mars injection Trans-Mars injection Trans-Mars injection Trans-Mars injection Trans-Mars injection On 30 November 2013 at 19:19 UTC, a 23-minute engine firing initiated the transfer of MOM away from Earth orbit and on heliocentric trajectory toward Mars. The probe will have to travel a distance of 780 million kilometres (484 million miles) to reach Mars. Trajectory correction Trajectory correction Trajectory correction Trajectory correction Trajectory correction manoeuvres manoeuvres manoeuvres manoeuvres manoeuvres Four trajectory corrections are planned: the first is done on 11 December 2013, the second will be in April 2014, then in August 2014, and September 2014. The first trajectory correction manoeuvre (TCM) was carried out at 01:00 IST, December 11, 2013, by firing the 22 newtons (4.9 lbf) thrusters for a duration of 40.5 seconds. Mars orbit insertion Mars orbit insertion Mars orbit insertion Mars orbit insertion Mars orbit insertion The current plan is for insertion into Mars orbit on 24 September 2014, approximately 2 days after the arrival of NASAs MAVEN orbiter. MOM will be set on a highly elliptical orbit around Mars, with a period of 76.7 hours and a planned periapsis of 365 km (227 mi) and apoapsis of 80,000 km. Ajay Kumar Ajay Kumar Ajay Kumar Ajay Kumar Ajay Kumar Buy online at: http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/books KALINJAR PUBLICATIONS
http://upscportal.com 7 77 77 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com Infrastructure Development in India Infrastructure Development in India Infrastructure Development in India Infrastructure Development in India Infrastructure Development in India Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe I ntroducti on I ntroducti on I ntroducti on I ntroducti on I ntroducti on India is the fourth largest economy in the world. However, one factor which is a drag on its development is the lack of world class infrastructure. In fact, estimates suggest that the lack of proper infrastructure pulls down Indias GDP growth by 1-2 percent every year. Physical infrastructure has a direct impact on the growth and overall development of an economy. But, the fast growth of the Indian economy in recent years has placed increasing stress on physical infrastructure, such as electricity, railways, roads, ports, airports, irrigation, urban and rural water supply, and sanitation, all of which already suffer from a substantial deficit. The goals of inclusive growth and a 9 percent growth in GDP can be achieved only if this infrastructure deficit is overcome. Infrastructure development will help in creating a better investment climate in India. To develop infrastructure in the country, the government is expected to revisit issues of budgetary allocation, tariff policy, fiscal incentives, private sector participation, and public- private partnerships (PPPs) with resolve. There are many issues that need to be addressed in different infrastructural fields. To begin with, the gap between electricity production and demand is affecting both manufacturing and overall growth. Then though road transport is the backbone of the Indian transport infrastructure, it is inadequate in terms of quality, quantity, and connectivity. Also in the overall transport sector, civil aviation and ports desperately need modernization. It is expected that the public sector will continue to play an important role in building transport infrastructure. However, the resources needed are much larger than what the public sector can provide. 12th Five Year Plan 12th Five Year Plan 12th Five Year Plan 12th Five Year Plan 12th Five Year Plan Inadequate infrastructure was recognized in the Eleventh Plan as a major constraint for rapid growth. The Plan had, therefore, emphasized on the need for massive expansion on investment in infrastructure based on a combination of public and private investment, the latter through various forms of PPPs. Substantial progress has been made in this respect. The total investment in infrastructure, which includes roads, railways, ports, electricity and telecommunication, oil gas pipelines, and irrigation, is estimated to have increased from 5.7 per cent of GDP in the base year of the Eleventh Plan to around 8 per cent in the last year of the Plan. The pace of investment has been particularly buoyant in some sectors, notably telecommunication and oil and gas pipelines, while falling short of targets in electricity, railways, roads, and ports. Efforts to attract private investment in infrastructure through the PPP route have met with considerable success, not only at the level of the central government, but also at the level of individual states. A large number of PPPs have taken off, and many of them are currently operational at both the centre and in the states. The Twelfth Plan intends to continue its thrust on accelerating the I N F R A S T R U C T U R E
D E V E L O P M E N T I N
I N D I A http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 8 88 88 http://upscportal.com Infrastructure Development in India Infrastructure Development in India Infrastructure Development in India Infrastructure Development in India Infrastructure Development in India Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe pace of investment in infrastructure as this is critical for sustaining and accelerating growth. The Planning Commission in its Twelfth Five Year Plan Document (2012-17) expects investments in infrastructure projects to be worth of US$ 1 Trillion over the five years of the plan. The total investment as a percentage of GDP is also expected to be in the range of 7-9% (see figure 1). Public investments in infrastructure have been the dominant form of infrastructure financing in India, but this is expected to change and the private sector will be expected to invest more in infrastructure in the coming years. It would be necessary to review the factors which may be constraining private investment, and steps may be needed to rectify them. PPPs, with appropriate regulation and concern for equity, need to be encouraged in social sectors, such as health and education. Several state governments are already taking steps in this direction. However, public investment in infrastructure is still expected to bear a large part of the infrastructure needs in backward and remote areas for improving connectivity and expanding much-needed public services. Since resource constraints will continue to limit public investment in infrastructure in other areas, PPP-based development needs to be encouraged wherever feasible. The above chart shows the percentage component of public and private investment in infrastructure in the 11th Five-Year Plan. As per the 12th Plan Document, the Planning Commission targets to achieve 50% private and PPP funding in total infrastructure investments, compared to a little more than 30% in the 11th Plan. The chart 3 below gives us an idea of what portion of private investment is in the form of PPP investments. It is evident that there is a greater emphasis to initiate PPP projects in the 12th Plan. In terms of number of projects, roads and highways are emerging as favoured destinations for PPP, while telecom and electricity lead in terms of private investments. Currently there are 758 projects in the pipeline with more than 53% in the roads sector, followed by urban development with 20% of the projects. See chart 4 The Indian power sector has attracted much private investment in the past years. With 56 projects for a total consideration of US$ 12.6 billion, the sector accounts for 18% of the total value of PPP projects across sectors, though only 7% of the total number of PPP projects. Indias total generating capacity is around 173,626.4 megawatts (MW), of which the private sector accounts for the lowest (21.2%). See figure 5 and 5A. India is expected to make great investments in the power sector due to rapid urbanization, rural electrification and industries across the country. Under the 12th Plan, the private sector is likely to account for a major share of the additional capacity (55.6%). PPP is likely to be the preferred route for such ventures. Publ i c-Pri vate Publ i c-Pri vate Publ i c-Pri vate Publ i c-Pri vate Publ i c-Pri vate Partnerships in India Partnerships in India Partnerships in India Partnerships in India Partnerships in India In the last one decade, the government has been faced with a huge resource crunch. The combined deficit of the central and state governments is roughly 10 per cent of GDP. Government borrowing has been capped through the Fiscal Responsibility and Budgetary Management Act. This necessarily limits state participation in infrastructure financing, thus opening the door to innovative approaches, such as PPPs. The Government of India has been encouraging private sector investment and participation in all infrastructure sectors. As the National Development Council has made clear: Increased private participation has now become a necessity to mobilise the resources needed for infrastructure expansion and upgrading. The PPP model has been fairly successful in many advanced countries and it is a robust model. PPPs in India are in a nascent stage, but are gaining popularity and support given the dire need to improve infrastructure in the country. A review of international best practice in PPPs suggests a number of core issues that public authorities must address when considering their use for procuring public infrastructure projects. These include: Whether PPP arrangements will result in better value for money than conventional procurement methods; Whether the project is affordable in the long term, given overall budgetary constraints; How willing is the private sector to be involved in the provision of public services; and what type of PPP arrangement is most appropriate for a particular project. In recent years, the PPP model in India has been fairly successful with several projects being implemented across sectors. However, one of the main problems confronting infrastructure and PPPs in India is the delay in implementing and executing large-scale projects resulting in time and cost overruns. Efficiency in implementing infrastructure projects in India is a rarity. The PPP model is a complex one leading to problems at various stages of implementation and execution of the project. Box 1.1 gives the broad reasons why PPPs fail in some cases. Why do some PPPs fail? Why do some PPPs fail? Why do some PPPs fail? Why do some PPPs fail? Why do some PPPs fail? If a contract is inadequately managed, one or more of the following problems may occur and http://upscportal.com 9 99 99 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com Infrastructure Development in India Infrastructure Development in India Infrastructure Development in India Infrastructure Development in India Infrastructure Development in India Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe potentially render the project unworkable: 1. The provider may assume control, leading to unbalanced decisions that do not reflect the interest of the public sector; 2. Decisions are taken at inappropriate times; 3. New business processes are unsuccessfully integrated with existing ones, and fail; 4. People within either sector may fail to understand their roles and responsibilities; 5. Disputes and misunder- standings may arise, some of which might be inappropriately escalated; 6. Progress may be slow or there might be an inability to move forward; The desired benefits may not be achieved; and There are a number of reasons why the public sector may fail to manage a PPP project successfully, including: Poorly drafted contracts; Contract managers assigned insufficient resources; Lack of experience in either the public sector or the provider teams; A failure to adopt an attitude towards partnership; Personality clashes between project team personnel; Lack of understanding of the complexity, context, and dependencies of the contract; Unclear identification of authority and responsibility in relation to commercial decisions; Lack of measurement of performance; Focus on existing arrangements rather than emphasis on potential improvements; and Inadequate monitoring and management of statutory, political, and commercial risks. Undoubtedly, PPPs in India have gathered significant traction in recent years but it is said that India lacks the overall sophistication of the market in terms of innovative and diverse application of PPPs. According to a 2011 survey by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, over 240 projects with a value of US$14.5 billion have been delivered over the last 15 years which show that this model has been operational in India, with a majority of $9.4 billion having been delivered during 2005-10 alone. Over the years, adoption of standardized documents, such as model concession agreements and bidding documents for award of PPP projects have been streamlined and there has also been accelerated decision-making by agencies in a manner that is fair, transparent, and competitive. This approach has contributed significantly to the recent strides in rolling out a large number of PPPs in different sectors. According to the Private Participation in Infrastructure database of the World Bank (India), with 1,017 PPPs accounting for an investment of Rs 486,603 crore, India is second only to China in terms of the number of PPPs; in terms of investment it is second to Brazil. Transport is the dominant PPP sector in India both by the number of projects and investment, mainly due to the large number of road sector projects. Further efforts are needed to mainstream PPPs in several areas, such as power transmission and distribution, water supply and sewerage, and railways where there are significant resource shortfalls and also a need for efficient delivery of services. Similar efforts will also have to be initiated in social sectors. The government has also been emphasizing the need to explore the scope of PPPs in the development of social sectors like health and education. Some of the major PPPs undertaken so far are: 1. Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad and Bengaluru airports. 2. Ultra-mega power projects at Sasan (Madhya Pradesh), Mudra (Gujarat), Krishnapatnam (Andhra Pradesh), and Tilaiya ( Jharkhand). 3. Container terminals at Mumbai, Chennai, and 4 Tuticorin ports. 5. 15 concessions for operations of container trains. 6. Jhajjar power transmission project in Haryana. 7. 298 national and state highway projects. Indias estimated overall infrastructure investment is pegged at US$ 1 trillion in the 12 th Five Year Plan of which approximately 40 per cent is expected from the private sector. While this ensures tremendous potential opportunities for private sector investment, it is imperative that both the government and the private sector address the issues of achieving efficiency in the tendering process, execution of projects on-time and within budgets, and streamlining structural financing problems. Approach to PPP s in India Approach to PPP s in India Approach to PPP s in India Approach to PPP s in India Approach to PPP s in India PPPs are still a relatively new phenomenon in India and in a nascent stage compared to the advanced models of PPPs in other countries. Until 2004, there were only 85 PPPs, but between 2004 and 2005, this figure leapt to 500, and in 2011 the number of PPPs in the country had increased to 840 as per the PPP database of the Government of India. PPPs worth billions are under development across the country, with the largest number of projects in the road and bridges sector, followed by ports. These sectors dominate PPP initiatives. The leading state users of PPPs by number of projects are Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, followed by Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. Almost all contracts have been of the BOT/ BOOT type or their close variants, which involve user payments. http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 10 10 10 10 10 http://upscportal.com Infrastructure Development in India Infrastructure Development in India Infrastructure Development in India Infrastructure Development in India Infrastructure Development in India Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe The largest number of PPPs in India has been in the road sector followed by urban development, energy, and port sectors. Economic Survey (2008-09) noted six key hurdles faced by PPPs: policy and regulatory gaps; inadequate availability of long-term finance; inadequate capacity in public institutions and public officials to manage PPP processes; inadequate capacity in the private sectorboth developer/investor and technical manpower; inadequate shelf of bankable infrastructure projects that can be bid out to the private sector; and inadequate advocacy to create greater acceptance of PPPs by stakeholders. Undoubtedly, India has to proceed with caution with respect to PPPs, ensuring necessary checks and balances because the benefits of private sector efficiencies will come at a price. In this context, and in view of ensuring project sustainability over the long term, the suggestion for independent regulatory bodies in core infrastructure sectors, such as the transport sectorcomprising highways, railways, urban metros, ports, and airports is a welcome suggestion for future reforms. Measures also need to be taken to make existing regulatory agencies in the power sector more effective. To make PPPs a success, state governments need to establish full- fledged PPP departments mandated with developing core competencies, policy frameworks, and public discourse. Lessons and experiences of other emerging markets in this context would also be helpful. Rigorous assessment of the costs and benefits of large projects would also be critical for achieving broader public support for the projects. Rajendra Rajendra Rajendra Rajendra Rajendra Buy Online at: http://upscportal.com/civilservices/order-books Help Line No. 011- 45151781 Also Available at: http://www.flipkart.com http://upscportal.com 11 11 11 11 11 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com Infrastructure Development in India Infrastructure Development in India Infrastructure Development in India Infrastructure Development in India Infrastructure Development in India Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe Free from Political Influence Free from Political Influence Free from Political Influence Free from Political Influence Free from Political Influence In a path-breaking verdict, the Supreme Court directed that bureaucrats be given a fixed tenure and their promotions and transfers be decided by a board, in order to free the bureaucracy from the clutches of political bosses and put an end to civil servants being shunted out for not toeing their line. Noting that deterioration of the standards of probity and accountability with civil servants is due to the political influence, the apex court held that bureaucrats must not function on verbal or oral instructions given by their superiors and political executive as it gives room for favoritism and corruption and also defeats the rights guaranteed to the citizens under RTI Act. Administrative reforms in India have been a long-drawn-out process, and recommendations on having a xed tenure system for bureaucrats have been repeatedly made since before Independence. The Supreme Court order directing the centre and the states to set up civil services boards for the management of transfers, postings, inquiries, promotions, rewards, and punishments of administrative personnel, while ensuring a xed minimum tenure for them is a laudable step. The apex courts decision signals an important move towards much-needed administrative reforms in India and is a signicant step in a long journey that began decades ago. The idea of bringing about stability in the tenure system of bureaucrats has been the focal point of a number of administrative reforms initiatives, and despite the efforts of multiple commissions and committees, it has yet to be implemented in the countrys non-political and permanent executive structure. Perspecti ve Perspecti ve Perspecti ve Perspecti ve Perspecti ve Stability of tenure has long been advocated by organisation theorists as the basis of effective and efficient management. This basic tenet was emphasised at the very inception of the discipline of public administration by classical theorists such as Henry Fayol. In his seminal work General and Industrial Management (1949), Fayol states that one of the principles of management is stability of tenure as it provides orderly human resource stafng and establishes provisions to ensure that an employee possesses the requisite ability to perform his or her work efciently. He points out that it takes time to develop the skills necessary to perform effectively in a particular position (Wren and Bedeian 2009). This logic holds true even today and has been the basis of many arguments in the favour of xed tenures in government services. In India, the system of stafng through tenure was established by Viceroy George Curzon (1899- 1905). A number of commissions and committees supported the system and also advocated stability of tenure. They included the Llewellyn Smith report (1919); the reports of the Simon Commission (1930); Wheeler Committee (1936); Maxwell Committee (1937); Rowlands Committee (1944-45); and the Bengal Administration Enquiry Committee (Avasthi and Avasthi A
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B U R E A U C R A C Y ? http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 12 12 12 12 12 http://upscportal.com A Fixed Tenure for Civil Servants: End of Nexus between Politics & Bureaucracy? A Fixed Tenure for Civil Servants: End of Nexus between Politics & Bureaucracy? A Fixed Tenure for Civil Servants: End of Nexus between Politics & Bureaucracy? A Fixed Tenure for Civil Servants: End of Nexus between Politics & Bureaucracy? A Fixed Tenure for Civil Servants: End of Nexus between Politics & Bureaucracy? Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe 2004). After Independence, the rst Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC 1967) and the second ARC (2008) have dealt in detail with the need for administrative reforms and xed tenures. Current Situation Current Situation Current Situation Current Situation Current Situation The second ARC has given a detailed account of the current situation. One of its reports points out that frequent transfer of civil servants continues to be a problem in public administration in India, and goes on to list its ill effects. It affects governance because civil servants are not allowed to stay in a position long enough to acquire adequate knowledge and experience of their job, and an understanding of the milieu and culture in which they have to function and the problems they need to redress. They are unable to build the required mutual condence and understanding which takes time to develop and is necessary for administrative leadership. It prevents civil ser vants from staying in a position long enough to institute or sustain reforms and it is both demoralising and demotivating when civil servants are not in a position long enough to see the fruits of their eorts which could be a source of enormous satisfaction to them. Frequent transfers and posting lead to lack of accountability and corruption. Short tenures are not only characteristic of the administration at the lower echelons, but also are a regular feature in the higher civil services (e g, t he IAS [Indian Administrative Service], IPS [Indian Police Service] IPS [Indian Police Service] IPS [Indian Police Service] IPS [Indian Police Service] IPS [Indian Police Service] etc) (2008: 182). etc) (2008: 182). etc) (2008: 182). etc) (2008: 182). etc) (2008: 182). A government report shows that only a very small percentage of IAS of cers spent more than three years in the same position between 1978 and 2006 the highest being 10% in 1996 and the lowest 5% in 1979. It also reveals that the majority of ofcers spent less than a year in the same position. The ARC report states that the situation is much worse in the states, with a large percentage of ofcers lasting less than a year in any one position. The ARC report points out that the trend of frequent transfers can be said to have taken root in the country, especially in recent years. When a new government is formed after an election, one of the rst actions the political executive carries out is transferring civil servants. These transfers are often made on the basis of caste or community reasons or for monetary considerations. This leads to an erosion of morale in the bureaucracy and, more worryingly, reinforces caste and communal divisions within it. The transfers also lead to a lack of accountability and are an important cause of the spread of corruption. Recommendations Recommendations Recommendations Recommendations Recommendations We should note that the Supreme Court s ruling to ensure xed minimum tenures comes against the backdrop of several other commissions and committees having made similar recommendations while looking into administrative reforms. The Fifth Pay Commission (1997) in its massive report observed that providing continuity in administration and stability in governance required xing a minimum tenure for positions held by civil servants. The minimum tenure suggested for a bureaucratic post was three to ve years, except in cases where a longer tenure was justied on functional grounds, such as ensuring the continued availability of certain specialized skills. As with the Supreme Court verdict now, it favoured constituting high-powered civil service boards at the levels of the union and state governments to regulate and look into cases of premature transfers of civil servants. The report of the committee of experts on disciplinary and vigilance inquiries headed by P C Hota (2004) also recommended the establishment of civil service boards/ establishment boards comprising senior civil servants. It urged that a Civil Services Act be enacted to make these boards at the centre and states statutory bodies. In its proposed set-up at the centre, an appointments committee of the cabinet would be the nal authority on the transfer of administrative personnel who came under the central stang scheme. The principle of a xed tenure would apply to senior ocers who are not under the central staffing scheme, but are working under the central government, and in their case, the minister under which their department fell would be the nal authority on transfers. Chief ministers would be the nal authority on the transfer of all Group A ocers of state services and IAS ocers serving in state services. If a chief minister did not agree with the recommendations of a civil services board/establishment board, he would have to record his reasons in writing. An ocer transferred before his tenure is over could appeal before a three member ombudsman even if this move was carried out on orders of the chief minister. The report also recommended that the chairperson of the ombudsman be a retired ocial of proven honesty and integrity. The other two members could be from among serving ocers and they could carry out their duties on a part-time basis. In all cases of premature transfers, the ombudsman would be liable to send a report to the governor of the state, who would lay it in an annual report before the state legislature. The ombudsman could http://upscportal.com 13 13 13 13 13 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com A Fixed Tenure for Civil Servants: End of Nexus between Politics & Bureaucracy? A Fixed Tenure for Civil Servants: End of Nexus between Politics & Bureaucracy? A Fixed Tenure for Civil Servants: End of Nexus between Politics & Bureaucracy? A Fixed Tenure for Civil Servants: End of Nexus between Politics & Bureaucracy? A Fixed Tenure for Civil Servants: End of Nexus between Politics & Bureaucracy? Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe also decide on damages to be paid to an ocer unfairly transferred to compensate him for dislocation and the mental agony caused by it. The Hota Committee observed that the absence of a xed tenure for ocials was one of the important reasons for tardy implementation of government policies, for a lack of accountability among ocers, for the waste of public money due to inadequate supervision of programmes, and, above all, for large- scale corruption. It emphatically pointed out that there was overwhelming evidence that ocials of state governments, particularly those in the all-India services serving in states, were demoralised with frequent transfers at the whims of local politicians and other vested interests, who succeeded in prevailing upon chief ministers or ministers to order them. Chief ministers often had to oblige powerful factions in their part y by transferring senior ocers who were honest, sincere, and steadfast in carrying out government programmes but were seen as inconvenient by local politicians whom they did not humour. The reason behind this trend, the committee pointed out, was faction- ridden party politics in some states. What suffered was the public interest with collectors/district magistrates, senior superintendents of police/ superintendents of police/deputy inspectors general of police and divisional forest ocers/conservators of forests and other senior ocials being frequently displaced. The second ARC (2008) quoted from the 2002 report of the National Commission to Review the Working of the Constitution, which commented on the issue of untimely transfers. It held all issues to do with personnel policy, including placements, promotions, transfers, and fast-track advancements, be managed by autonomous personnel boards, which would functions on the lines of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). Such boards had to be constituted under a parliamentary legislation under Article 309 of the Constitution. This would be a major step towards neutralising the well- known trend of playing politics with official postings in public services in general and the higher civil services in particular. Conclusion Conclusion Conclusion Conclusion Conclusion The Supreme Court verdict is only the tip of the iceberg. A number of reforms commissions have pointed out shortcomings in personnel management of the Indian executive and advised measures to introduce much-needed changes. It has been time and again observed that the frequent transfer of civil servants has a negative eect on governance and stands in the way of them delivering ef- cient and effective services to the people. The fact of the matter is that no commission or committee report has so far contested the need for xed minimum tenures, but the government continues to drag its feet. A democratic government ought to serve its own people and not itself, something which our legislatures need to be repeatedly reminded of. With the apex court now stepping in, we can only hope the powers that be will nally get the message. S P Singh S P Singh S P Singh S P Singh S P Singh http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 14 14 14 14 14 http://upscportal.com National Issues National Issues National Issues National Issues National Issues Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe N A T I O N A L
I S S U E S Amendment of Article 371(D) Amendment of Article 371(D) Amendment of Article 371(D) Amendment of Article 371(D) Amendment of Article 371(D) is needed for bifurcation of is needed for bifurcation of is needed for bifurcation of is needed for bifurcation of is needed for bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh Andhra Pradesh Andhra Pradesh Andhra Pradesh Andhra Pradesh The Union Law Ministry on 14 November 2013 told to the Group of Ministers (GoM) about the necessity of amendment of Article 371 (D) of the Constitution of India for bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh. The Article 371D of Constitution of India writes Special provisions with respect to the State of Andhra Pradesh. Two- third majority of Parliament will be needed for the passage of the constitution Amendment Bill, which will be the biggest political inference in passage. The GoM will seek the advice of Goolam Vahanvati, the Attorney General before they proceed with the Bill. As they want to enquire that a single bill on bifurcation is sufficient or a separate bill will be required to be amendment. Land transfer for Dr B. R. Land transfer for Dr B. R. Land transfer for Dr B. R. Land transfer for Dr B. R. Land transfer for Dr B. R. Ambedkar Memorial approved Ambedkar Memorial approved Ambedkar Memorial approved Ambedkar Memorial approved Ambedkar Memorial approved Union Cabinet on 25 November 2013 approved a proposal to transfer Indu Mill land in Mumbai to Maharashtra government for constructing Dr B R Ambedkar memorial. The decision was taken in the meeting of the Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh. It would empower the Centre to acquire certain area of the Mill belonging to National Textile Corporation Limited in Mumbai for facilitation of construction of the memorial. Over 48000 square metres of land will be acquired for the purpose. According to the cabinet note, NTCL will be paid 45.77 crore rupees for the land. In this regard, Dr. B R Ambedkar Memorial Bill, 2013 is likely to be introduced in Parliament in the winter session beginning on 5 December 2013. The legislation is aimed at empowering the Central government to acquire a portion of the land belonging to the National Textile Corporation Limited (NTCL) for facilitation of the construction of a memorial for Ambedkar. The ashes of Dr Ambedkar are interred at Chaitya Bhoomi, which is situated in the vicinity of the Indu Mill. India declared itself free from India declared itself free from India declared itself free from India declared itself free from India declared itself free from Bird Flu Bird Flu Bird Flu Bird Flu Bird Flu India on 12 November 2013 declared itself free from Notifiable Avian Influenza (H5N1), commonly http://upscportal.com 15 15 15 15 15 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com National Issues National Issues National Issues National Issues National Issues Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe called bird flu and notified the same to World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE). India notified the outbreak of the Avian Influenza (H5N1) at poultry production unit, College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Anjora, Durg and Government Poultry Farm, Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh on 05th August, 2013. The control measures adopted in the outbreak was taken in form of stamping of the entire poultry population and it included the destruction of eggs, litters, feed and other infected materials within the radius of one kilometer around the location of the outbreak, restriction of the poultry movement, disinfection and cleaning up of the infected premises and subsequently issuing of the Post Operation Surveillance Plan (POSP). On 12 August 2013 the POSP was issued. Although India is free from the bird flu, but regular surveillance will be continued across the country especially in the vulnerable areas that is bordered by the infected countries and in areas which are visited by migratory birds. MoU between Sports Ministry MoU between Sports Ministry MoU between Sports Ministry MoU between Sports Ministry MoU between Sports Ministry & Department of AIDS Control & Department of AIDS Control & Department of AIDS Control & Department of AIDS Control & Department of AIDS Control The Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports on 29 November 2013 signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Department of AIDS Control. The MoU was signed between Secretary, Department of Sports Ajit M Saran, and Secretary, Department of AIDS Control, Lov Verma, in New Delhi. The MoUs objective is to reach a large number of youth engaged in sports activities at village, district and state level with information on STI/HIV/AIDS prevention and related services. Other objectives included building the capacity of sports educators, administrators and coaches on Minimizing the risk of HIV transmission on and outside the sports field, involve youth organisation, sports federations in HIV/AIDS prevention activities, promote awareness generation through hoarding and banners at eminent places and sports infrastructure during state/national events and tournaments, and involve eminent sports personalities for addressing social stigma and discrimination associated with HIV/AIDS. For fulfillment of objectives of MOU, the Department of Sports would issue directives to Sports Authority of India (SAI), National Anti Doping Agency (NADA), Lakshmibai National University of Physical Education (LNUPE), National Sports Federations (NSFs) and other sports bodies for creating awareness. The Department of AIDS Control provide technical support in capacity building on HIV/AIDS for sportspersons, trainees and staff of sports organisations and federations, by sharing of Information Education and Communication (IEC) materials for awareness generation activities. National Portal on Maulana National Portal on Maulana National Portal on Maulana National Portal on Maulana National Portal on Maulana Abul Kalam Azad launched Abul Kalam Azad launched Abul Kalam Azad launched Abul Kalam Azad launched Abul Kalam Azad launched Union Minister of Minority Affairs K Rahman Khan on 11 November 2013 launched a National Portal on Maulana Abul Kalam Azad. The portal was inaugurated to mark 125th birth anniversary of the great national leader- Maulana Abul Kalam Azad. Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, (11 November 1888 22 February 1958) was a scholar and a great Indian freedom fighter, an eminent educationist and the first Education Minister of India. He was one of the greatest national leaders of his time in the cause of Hindu Muslim unity as well as secularism and socialism. About the National Portal About the National Portal About the National Portal About the National Portal About the National Portal This portal is an initiative to digitise the heritage of the Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, and make his life and legacy available online. Along with a biographical account on Maulana Azad, the portal contains titles and information on over 20 books written by Maulana Azad, in Urdu and English, as well as information on over 45 books written on Maulana Azad in Urdu, Hindi and English. Portal also contains over 60 photographs some of which are with contemporaries like Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, Mahatma Gandhi, C Rajagopalachari amongst others. The portal also has excerpts of rare writings by Maulana Azad his address on the Mahatmas Birthday on All India Radio, his message on the day that marked the anniversary of the JallianwalaBagh massacre, his insights on the history of philosophy to name a few. Additionally, the portal enlists the institutions, scholarships and other initiatives named after the leader. The portal is a collaborative effort by the Union ministry of http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 16 16 16 16 16 http://upscportal.com National Issues National Issues National Issues National Issues National Issues Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe minority affairs, the Office of Advisor to the Prime Minister, the National Commission for Minorities, the Ministry of Culture). The national portal www.maulanaazadheritage.org a one stop point collating all knowledge and resources available on Maulana Azad, is now available to the public. Higher Base Price for Higher Base Price for Higher Base Price for Higher Base Price for Higher Base Price for upcoming Spectrum Auction upcoming Spectrum Auction upcoming Spectrum Auction upcoming Spectrum Auction upcoming Spectrum Auction The Empowered Group of Ministers (EGoM) on 22 November 2013 approved hiking by up to 25 per cent the reserve or start price for the auction of mobile phone spectrum in January 2014. An Empowered Group of Ministers (EGoM) on Telcom headed b y Defence Minister A K Defence Minister A K Defence Minister A K Defence Minister A K Defence Minister A K Antony Antony Antony Antony Antony agreed wi th the recommendation of the Telecom Commission to better regulator TRAIs suggested reserve or base price for the auction of spectrum in the 1800 1800 1800 1800 1800 MHz and 900 MHz and 900 MHz and 900 MHz and 900 MHz and 900 MHz bands used by GSM operators such as Bharti Airtel and Vodafone. The EGoM also asked the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) to suggest a base price for the 800 MHz spectrum, which is used by CDMA operators such as Sistema. TRAI had not recommended a reserve price for the 800 MHz band, saying there was no need to auction these airwaves now. The Telecom Commission had earlier this month (Nov 2013) suggested fixing a minimum 1765 crore Rupees per MHz as the price for pan-India spectrum in the 1800 MHz band, 15 per cent higher than the TRAIs suggested rate of 1496 crore Rupees. Indias 1st Synthetic Rubber Indias 1st Synthetic Rubber Indias 1st Synthetic Rubber Indias 1st Synthetic Rubber Indias 1st Synthetic Rubber Plant in Panipat Plant in Panipat Plant in Panipat Plant in Panipat Plant in Panipat Union Petroleum Minister Veerappa Moily on 29 November 2013 inaugurated the first Synthetic Rubber Plant Synthetic Rubber Plant Synthetic Rubber Plant Synthetic Rubber Plant Synthetic Rubber Plant of the country at Panipat in Haryana. The country s fi rst e-SBR (styrene e-SBR (styrene e-SBR (styrene e-SBR (styrene e-SBR (styrene butadiene rubber) butadiene rubber) butadiene rubber) butadiene rubber) butadiene rubber) unit was set up by Indian Synthetic Rubber Ltd (ISRL), a joint venture promoted by Indian Oil, TSRC Corporation, Taiwan, and Marubeni Corporation, Japan. The plant will produce 120 kilo tonnes synthetic rubber annually, which would be used in industrial units for manufacturing automobile and daily need products. It is planned to increase the capacity of the plant to 220 KT in next two years. The project, which is estimated to cost 958 crore rupees 958 crore rupees 958 crore rupees 958 crore rupees 958 crore rupees, has been funded through debt raised from Japan Bank for International Cooperation and Mizuho Corporation Bank. Technology for the manufacturing unit is being provided by TSRC Corporation. Dual Cab Freight Diesel Dual Cab Freight Diesel Dual Cab Freight Diesel Dual Cab Freight Diesel Dual Cab Freight Diesel Locomotive Vijay Flagged Off Locomotive Vijay Flagged Off Locomotive Vijay Flagged Off Locomotive Vijay Flagged Off Locomotive Vijay Flagged Off The Minister of Railways Mallikarjun Kharge flagged off the first ever Dual Cab 4500 HP Freight Diesel locomotive called Vijay from Diesel Locomotive Works (DLW), Varanasi, a production unit of Indian Railways, on 6 November 2013. At the same time, the Minister announced to stop the Swatantrata Senani Express at Bhulanpur Railway Station, Sub-way at DLW administration. It is important to note that the DLW has not only increased its production in large but also developed latest state-of-the-art technologies. Building of this WDG4D High Horse Power freight locomotive is a breakthrough for DLW as well as for the Indian Railways. Highlights of the Dual Cab Highlights of the Dual Cab Highlights of the Dual Cab Highlights of the Dual Cab Highlights of the Dual Cab 4500 HP Freight Diesel 4500 HP Freight Diesel 4500 HP Freight Diesel 4500 HP Freight Diesel 4500 HP Freight Diesel locomotive- Vijay locomotive- Vijay locomotive- Vijay locomotive- Vijay locomotive- Vijay Vijay, the dual cab freight WDG4D is a trailblazer. It is the first dual cab diesel electric freight locomotive to be built by Indian Railways. The locomotive has been designed on a 21.7 metre platform to accommodate two cabs and this is about two meters longer than the single cab version. The cabs have full width front view. Besides the obvious visibility advantages, the locomotive also has several features for crew comfort. Vijay has been provided with air conditioned cabs. The AC unit is designed to heat up the cab during winters while cooling it during summers, thus maintaining a comfortable ambient for efficient working. The loco also has TFT screen based integrated driver display. This feature which is http://upscportal.com 17 17 17 17 17 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com National Issues National Issues National Issues National Issues National Issues Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe similar to the one used in the aero planes allows the operating parameters to be displayed on a single screen. The system also provides alarm levels for the ease of the crew. The display system naturally assists the crew through fault diagnostics. The system reduces eye fatigue, improves reliability and improves crew response. The locomotive has been provided with an ergonomically designed control stand and seat. The seat is based on the excavator design (which needs 360 deg view and operability) has been provided with movement on three axis for operational flexibility. The locomotive has also been provided with airplane type task light and automotive type auto wash wipers. Vijay has been built around the 4500HP 710 G3B engine with inverter controlled three phase traction motor drive. The inverter control uses the state of the art IGBT technology. This is the technology being used worldwide by the leading manufacturers i.e. GE, ABB, Alsthom etc. The locomotive is provided with the latest Computerised Control Brake system which is the world standard. The brake system uses the latest in the electronics and communication to improve response times and to improve reliability. The locomotive has been designed to implement the Indian Railways efforts at increasing the speed of loaded trains to 100kmph. It can run at 105 kmph and can be used to haul passenger trains in emergencies. The cost of the locomotive is approximately 14.7 crore Rupees as compared to 14.38 crore Rupees for the single cab version. VVPATS to be used on large- VVPATS to be used on large- VVPATS to be used on large- VVPATS to be used on large- VVPATS to be used on large- scale for 1st time scale for 1st time scale for 1st time scale for 1st time scale for 1st time Election Commission decided t o use Voter-Verified Paper Voter-Verified Paper Voter-Verified Paper Voter-Verified Paper Voter-Verified Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) Audit Trail (VVPAT) Audit Trail (VVPAT) Audit Trail (VVPAT) Audit Trail (VVPAT) on a large- scale for the first time in the country in the Mizoram Assembly polls on 25 November 2013. The VVPAT is a machine attached to EVMS which allows voters to verify that their vote has been cast in the way they wished. As soon as the voter casts his vote, the VVPAT will show a small slip in a glass covered screen with the symbol and the candidate he has voted for in a form of a small ballot paper, which after 3 to 4 seconds would automatically fall into an attached closed box. The VVPATs are being used in only ten assembly constituencies of Aizwal District of the total 40 assembly segments in Mizoram. The VVPAT system was first experimented in the Noksen Assembly bypoll in Nagaland on 4 September 2013 and Mizoram would be the first state where it would be introduced on a large scale. Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail System (VVPAT) Trail System (VVPAT) Trail System (VVPAT) Trail System (VVPAT) Trail System (VVPAT) 1. The VVPAT system is a new initiative of the Election Commission to ensure free and fair elections. 2. The VVPT will enable electors to see a printout of their ballot - displaying the name, election symbol and serial number of the chosen candidate. However the voter cannot take the printout home. 3. In case there is a dispute about the voting and a petition is filed, the votes can be tallied electronically and physically with the ballot slips that fall into the compartment. 4. The cost of each VVPAT, manufactured by Bharat Electronic Ltd and Electronics Corporation of India (ECIL) is estimated at about 12000 rupees. 5. At present, EVMs are used for voting and counting is based on the results in the machines. In comparison the VVPAT will print a voters selection, thus also allowing for physically verification of the vote. Election Commission of India with an objective of free and fair polls, the VVPAT System is introduced. This new voting system is a step towards winning the public trust in election process. VVPAT system will also help to resolve the election disputes by providing physical verification of the votes in EVMs. For introducing VVPAT systems throughout the country would cost around 2000 to 3000 crore rupees. SC directed to Fix the tenure SC directed to Fix the tenure SC directed to Fix the tenure SC directed to Fix the tenure SC directed to Fix the tenure of bureaucrats of bureaucrats of bureaucrats of bureaucrats of bureaucrats The Supreme Court of India on 31 October 2013 directed the Government of India and the States to pass order within three months on http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 18 18 18 18 18 http://upscportal.com National Issues National Issues National Issues National Issues National Issues Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe giving the fixed tenure to civil servants. The Supreme Court has also directed to constitute a Civil Services Board at nation and state levels for management of the transfers, posting, reward, inquiries and process of promotion, punishment and disciplinary matters of bureaucracy. The decisions were taken to bring bureaucracy out from political interference and to give end to regular transfers of the civil servants from political executive. The Supreme Court bench headed by Justice K S Radhakrishnan said that the fixed tenure of the bureaucrats would help to promote the professionalism, efficiency and good governance. The Parliament has been also directed by the Supreme Court to enact a law to regulate transfer, posting and disciplinary action on the IAS officers and to immunize them from political interference. As the Supreme Court held that the condition of bureaucracy is deteriorated due to the interference from the political people. The court also said that the civil servants should not act on the verbal orders given by the political executives and all the actions taken by the political executives on the basis of written communication. The Court directed on a petition submitted by 83 former civil servants, like former cabinet secretary T S R Subramanian, former Indian ambassador to the US Abid Hussain, former chief election commissioner, N Gopalaswami and others, demanding reforms to ensure bureaucracy to get them out from the political influences. Committee to Deal with Committee to Deal with Committee to Deal with Committee to Deal with Committee to Deal with Sexual Harassment Complaints Sexual Harassment Complaints Sexual Harassment Complaints Sexual Harassment Complaints Sexual Harassment Complaints The Supreme Court of India on 26 November 2013 constituted a ten- member Gender Sensitisation Gender Sensitisation Gender Sensitisation Gender Sensitisation Gender Sensitisation and Internal Complaints and Internal Complaints and Internal Complaints and Internal Complaints and Internal Complaints Committee (GSICC) Committee (GSICC) Committee (GSICC) Committee (GSICC) Committee (GSICC) to deal with complaints of sexual harassment within its premises. The committee was constituted by the Chief Justice of India P. Sathasivam. The committee is headed by Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai. The committee has six other female members. Two members are outsiders and not connected with the Supreme Court. The panel is in consonance with the guidelines laid down by the apex court in its judgment in the Vishaka case for dealing with complaints of sexual harrassment at the workplace. New Delhi to host 12th New Delhi to host 12th New Delhi to host 12th New Delhi to host 12th New Delhi to host 12th Edition of Pravasi Bharatiya Edition of Pravasi Bharatiya Edition of Pravasi Bharatiya Edition of Pravasi Bharatiya Edition of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2014 Divas 2014 Divas 2014 Divas 2014 Divas 2014 The 12th edition 12th edition 12th edition 12th edition 12th edition of Pravasi Bhartiya Divas will be held in New Delhi from 7th to 9th of January 2014. This was announced by Vayalar Ravi, Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs on 5 Novemeber 2013 in New Delhi. The theme of the convention is - Engaging Diaspora - Engaging Diaspora - Engaging Diaspora - Engaging Diaspora - Engaging Diaspora - Connecting across Generations Connecting across Generations Connecting across Generations Connecting across Generations Connecting across Generations- with a special focus on the younger generation. Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh will inaugurate the convention and President Pranab Mukherjee will give his valedictory address. Pravasi Bharatiya Samman will also be bestowed on 15 persons during the convention. The PBD Convention provides a unique of India showcases investment opportunities in India and its potential in various sectors. The 11th edi ti on 11th edi ti on 11th edi ti on 11th edi ti on 11th edi ti on of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) was held at Kochi, Kerala Kochi, Kerala Kochi, Kerala Kochi, Kerala Kochi, Kerala from 7th to 9th of January 2013. About Pravasi Bharatiya Divas About Pravasi Bharatiya Divas About Pravasi Bharatiya Divas About Pravasi Bharatiya Divas About Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) is celebrated on 9th January every 9th January every 9th January every 9th January every 9th January every year year year year year to mark the contribution of Overseas Indian community in the development of India. January 9 was chosen as the day to celebrate this occasion since it was on this day this day this day this day this day in 1915 that Mahatma in 1915 that Mahatma in 1915 that Mahatma in 1915 that Mahatma in 1915 that Mahatma Gandhi Gandhi Gandhi Gandhi Gandhi the greatest Pravasi, returned to India from South Africa, led Indias freedom struggle and changed the lives of Indians forever. PBD conventions are being held every year since 2003. These conventions provide a platform to the overseas Indian community to engage with the government and people of the land of their ancestors for mutually beneficial activities. These conventions are also very useful in networking among the overseas Indian community residing in various platform for overseas Indians to interact among themselves and with the Government of India and the Governments of various Indian States. It is a forum where the Government http://upscportal.com 19 19 19 19 19 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com National Issues National Issues National Issues National Issues National Issues Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe parts of the world and enable them to share their experiences in various fields. During the event, individuals of exceptional merit are honoured with the prestigious Pravasi Bharatiya Pravasi Bharatiya Pravasi Bharatiya Pravasi Bharatiya Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award Samman Award Samman Award Samman Award Samman Award to appreci ate their role in Indias growth. The event also provides a forum for discussing key issues concerning the Indian Diaspora. Rapid Metro-Indias First Rapid Metro-Indias First Rapid Metro-Indias First Rapid Metro-Indias First Rapid Metro-Indias First Private Metro service Private Metro service Private Metro service Private Metro service Private Metro service Rapid Metro-Indias First Private Metro service started operation from Gurgaon, Haryana on 14 November 2013. Rapid Metro Rapid Metro Rapid Metro Rapid Metro Rapid Metro is Indias first fully privately financed Metro system connecting NH-8 to Delhi Metro via Cyber City, Gurgaon. Rapid Metro, with an elevated route and six stations with a frequency of every four minutes, can carry 800 passengers in each trip. The 5.1 km long route covers six stations-Sikanderpur, Phase-2, Belvedere Towers, Cyber City, Moulsari Avenue and Phase 3. The Rapid Metro is using a common ticketing system with Delhi Metro. The launch of Rapid Metro Gurgaon will boost connectivity within Cyber City, which is the corporate and the retail hub of Gurgaon -nearly one lakh people work or visit the hub each day. About Rapid Metro Rail About Rapid Metro Rail About Rapid Metro Rail About Rapid Metro Rail About Rapid Metro Rail System System System System System Rapid Metro is a metro rail system in the Indian city of Gurgaon, Haryana, linked with the Delhi Metro systems Yellow Line. Built and operated by Rapid MetroRail Gurgaon Limited (RMGL), the system is Indias first fully privately financed metro. It was built at a cost of 1100 crore rupees and construction was completed in 30 months. Originally planned to open in 2012, the first phase of the system opened on 14 November 2013. The Haryana Urban Development Authority ( HUDA HUDA HUDA HUDA HUDA) provided the land and the infrastructure was built by Rapid Metro, a partnership between IL&FS IL&FS IL&FS IL&FS IL&FS and construction major DLF DLF DLF DLF DLF. The project has been leased to Rapid Metro for 99 years. Buy online at: http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/books KALINJAR PUBLICATIONS Buy online at: http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/books KALINJAR PUBLICATIONS http://www.flipkart.com http://upscportal.com/civilservices/books http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 22 22 22 22 22 http://upscportal.com National Issues National Issues National Issues National Issues National Issues Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe I N T E R N A T I O N A L
I S S U E S Iran and P5+1 Group of Iran and P5+1 Group of Iran and P5+1 Group of Iran and P5+1 Group of Iran and P5+1 Group of Nations clinched Nuclear Nations clinched Nuclear Nations clinched Nuclear Nations clinched Nuclear Nations clinched Nuclear Deal Deal Deal Deal Deal Iran and P5+1 group of Nations reached a breakthrough deal on 24 November 2013 to curb Irans nuclear programme in exchange for limited sanctions relief. An agreement to this effect was signed at UN Headquarters in Geneva on 24 November 2013 between the Chief negotiator for the six nations, Catherine Marie Ashton and Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Jawad Zarief. The interim deal for six months is intended to give time and space to the international community to work towards a comprehensive agreement. After four days of negotiations, representatives of P5+1 group of nations - the P5+1 group of nations - the P5+1 group of nations - the P5+1 group of nations - the P5+1 group of nations - the US, the UK, Russia, China, US, the UK, Russia, China, US, the UK, Russia, China, US, the UK, Russia, China, US, the UK, Russia, China, France and Germany France and Germany France and Germany France and Germany France and Germany - reached an agreement with Iran. The deal is intended as the first step in a six- month process aimed at a permanent resolution to the decade-old global impasse over Irans nuclear programme, and heading off the threat of a new war in West Asia. The Geneva deal also makes the way for releasing over 4 billion Dollars in Iranian oil sales revenue from frozen accounts, and suspends restrictions on the countrys trade in gold, petrochemicals, and car and plane parts. In return, Iran undertakes In return, Iran undertakes In return, Iran undertakes In return, Iran undertakes In return, Iran undertakes to restrict its nuclear activities. to restrict its nuclear activities. to restrict its nuclear activities. to restrict its nuclear activities. to restrict its nuclear activities. Over the next six months Iran Over the next six months Iran Over the next six months Iran Over the next six months Iran Over the next six months Iran has agreed to: has agreed to: has agreed to: has agreed to: has agreed to: 1. Stop enriching uranium above 5 per cent, reactor-grade, and dilute its stock of 20 per cent- enriched uranium or convert it to oxide, which makes it harder to enrich further. 2. Not to increase its stockpile of low-enrichment uranium. 3. Freeze its enrichment capacity by not installing any more centrifuges, leaving more than half of its existing 16000 centrifuges inoperable. 4. Not to fuel or to commission the heavy-water reactor it is building in Arak or build a reprocessing plant that could produce plutonium from the spent fuel.5. Iran will give greater access to inspectors including daily access at the Natanz and Fordo nuclear sites. In return, there will be no new nuclear-related sanctions for six months if Iran sticks by the accord. Geneva II Geneva II Geneva II Geneva II Geneva II Syria Peace Conference Syria Peace Conference Syria Peace Conference Syria Peace Conference Syria Peace Conference Ban Ki Moon, the UN Secretary http://upscportal.com 23 23 23 23 23 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com International Issues International Issues International Issues International Issues International Issues Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe General on 25 November 2013 announced the Geneva-II peace conference is to be held on 22 January 2014. The international conference is aimed at a democratic political transition in Syria, which will bring the Government and the opposition to a negotiating table for the first time, since the conflict that started in March 2011. The decision was taken at a meeting of the UN special envoy on Syria, Lakhdar Brahimi with the Russian Deputy Foreign Minister, Mikhail Bogdanov and Gennady Gatilov along with the US under Secretary for political Affairs, Wendy Sherman in Geneva on 25 November 2013. The Geneva-II conference was termed as the mission of hope by Ban Ki Moon in which, the fighting has killed more than 100000 and driven almost nine million from their homes, left countless missing and detained and terrible violations of human rights. The goal of Geneva II would be to achieve a political solution to the conflict through a comprehensive agreement between the Government and the opposition for the full implementation of the Geneva communiqu, adopted after the first international meeting on the issue on 30 June 2012. The communiqu, which has been endorsed by the UN Security Council, lays out key steps in a process to end the violence. Among these, the establishment - based on mutual consent - of a transitional governing body with full executive powers, including over military and security entities. Nepal Constituent Assembly Nepal Constituent Assembly Nepal Constituent Assembly Nepal Constituent Assembly Nepal Constituent Assembly el ecti ons el ecti ons el ecti ons el ecti ons el ecti ons Nepali Congress (NC) emerged as single largest Party in the second Constituent Assembly elections which are held on 19 November 2013. The Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist-Leninist) stood a close second position and the UCPN (Maoist) party is in a distant third position. Elections to the Constituent Assembly were held under two categori es first-past-the- first-past-the- first-past-the- first-past-the- first-past-the- p o s t p o s t p o s t p o s t p o s t a n d p r o p o r t i o n a l p r o p o r t i o n a l p r o p o r t i o n a l p r o p o r t i o n a l p r o p o r t i o n a l representation representation representation representation representation. A total of 240 seats were allocated in the first category and 365 seats in the proportional representation category. The remaining 26 seats in the 601- member will be nominated by the Cabinet later. A total of 301 301 301 301 301 seats are needed for majority and to form a government. Nepali Congress Party wins 105 of the 240 directly elected seats followed by Communist Party of Nepal (United Marxist-Leninist) with 91 and the United Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) with 26. The NC NC NC NC NC has also emerged a clear front-runner in both the electoral formats. It won 105 seats under the direct election of candidates and has so far bagged 26 per cent under the PR system. The CPN (UML) CPN (UML) CPN (UML) CPN (UML) CPN (UML) i s a close second with 91 seats and 25 per cent, respectively. The largest party in the last assembly- the UCPN UCPN UCPN UCPN UCPN (Maoist) (Maoist) (Maoist) (Maoist) (Maoist) is in a distant third position. The previous assembly - elected in 2008 after the abolition of the monarchy - was won by the former rebels. But the Constituent Assembly (CA) was bitterly divided and failed to write a new constitution. Shinawatra declared Shinawatra declared Shinawatra declared Shinawatra declared Shinawatra declared Emergency Law for Bangkok Emergency Law for Bangkok Emergency Law for Bangkok Emergency Law for Bangkok Emergency Law for Bangkok Thailand Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra on 25 November 2013 declared a special emergency law for Bangkok after riot police and anti-government protesters scuffled in the capital city. The decision came after hundreds of anti-government protesters stormed into the finance ministry compound and later forced their way into the foreign ministry building. Anti-government protesters want Prime Minister to step down amid claims that her government was remote-controlled by her older brother Thaksin Shinawatra , who was forced to quit as prime minister in 2006. He has since lived in exile to avoid jail on a corruption conviction. The current political crisis is the most serious confrontation in Thailand since the 2010 bloody protests in which over 90 people were killed. US exempted India and China US exempted India and China US exempted India and China US exempted India and China US exempted India and China from Iranian Sanctions from Iranian Sanctions from Iranian Sanctions from Iranian Sanctions from Iranian Sanctions United States of America on 29 November 2013 exempted some countries, including India and China, from the tough Iranian sanctions for reducing their dependence on Iranian oil. Secretary of State, John Kerry announced in a statement in http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 24 24 24 24 24 http://upscportal.com International Issues International Issues International Issues International Issues International Issues Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe Washington that other countries which have significantly reduced the purchases of Iranian crude oil are the Republic of Korea, Turkey, and Taiwan and these have qualified for an exception to sanctions under the National Defence Authorisation Act. This move came after the decision made by US President Barack Obama that there is sufficient supply of non- Iranian oil for countries to continue to reduce import of oil from Iran. This is the fourth time that these countries have qualified for an NDAA exception as a result of their continued significant reductions in the volume of crude oil purchases from Iran or their end to such purchases. Abdulla Yameen sworn in as Abdulla Yameen sworn in as Abdulla Yameen sworn in as Abdulla Yameen sworn in as Abdulla Yameen sworn in as the President of Maldives the President of Maldives the President of Maldives the President of Maldives the President of Maldives Abdulla Yameen has been sworn in as the 6th President of the Maldives on 17 November 2013. The Chief Justice of Maldives, Ahmad Faiz at a special session of the Parliament in Male administered the oath of office to Abdulla Yameen. Mohammad Jameel was sworn in as vice-President. Yameen (54) a candidate of Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) secured 51.39 percent of votes, whereas the opposition leader and the former President Mohamed Nasheed received 48.61. Election Commission of Maldives, declared the results of the election on 16 November 2013 in which it declared Yameen, the half-brother of former autocratic ruler Maumoon Abdul Gayoom as the President elect. Abdulla Yameens sworn in has ended the two years of political turmoil that was threatened to isolate the country internationally. The Maldives was witnessing the political turmoil, since Nasheed resigned under pressure in February 2012 because of a controversial transfer of power. China Set up Air Defence China Set up Air Defence China Set up Air Defence China Set up Air Defence China Set up Air Defence Zone over East China Sea Zone over East China Sea Zone over East China Sea Zone over East China Sea Zone over East China Sea China on 23 November 2013 announced that it was set up an Air Air Air Air Air Defence Identification Defence Identification Defence Identification Defence Identification Defence Identification Zone Zone Zone Zone Zone over an area i n the East East East East East China Sea China Sea China Sea China Sea China Sea. The Zone includes Senkaku islands Senkaku islands Senkaku islands Senkaku islands Senkaku islands that are controlled by Japan but claimed by China. In this regard, the Chinese Defense Ministry issued a map of an East China Sea Air Defense Identification Zone including a chain of disputed islands. The zone came into effect from 10:00 local time from 23 November 2013. China also issued a set of rules for the zone, saying all aircraft must notify Chinese authorities and are subject to emergency military measures if they do not identify themselves or obey orders from Beijing. It stated it would identify, monitor, control identify, monitor, control identify, monitor, control identify, monitor, control identify, monitor, control and react and react and react and react and react to any air threats or unidentified flying objects coming from the sea. China-Japan islands row China-Japan islands row China-Japan islands row China-Japan islands row China-Japan islands row The islands, known as Senkaku in Japan and Diaoyu in China, that lie in the East China Sea are a source of rising tension between China and Japan. The eight uninhabited islands with a total area of about 7 sq km are lie northeast of Taiwan, east of the Chinese mainland and southwest of Japans southern-most prefecture, Okinawa. They matter because they are close to strategically important shipping lanes, offer rich fishing grounds and are thought to contain oil deposits. The islands are controlled by Japan. 13th Council of Ministers Meeting of the 13th Council of Ministers Meeting of the 13th Council of Ministers Meeting of the 13th Council of Ministers Meeting of the 13th Council of Ministers Meeting of the Indian Ocean Rim Association was held in Australia Indian Ocean Rim Association was held in Australia Indian Ocean Rim Association was held in Australia Indian Ocean Rim Association was held in Australia Indian Ocean Rim Association was held in Australia Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) held its 13th Council of Ministers meeting in Perth, Australia on 1 November 2013. On the occasion, India handed over the chair of the IORA to Australia. India chaired the IORA, since http://upscportal.com 25 25 25 25 25 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com International Issues International Issues International Issues International Issues International Issues Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe 2011. The Perth reviewed the process made by IORA since 2012 meeting in Gurgaon, India. The future directions and initiatives to advance were considered then for the interests of the IORA and its members. The thirteenth Council of Ministers Meeting was visited by the member states Foreign Ministers namely Australia, Bangladesh, Comoros, India, Indonesia, Iran, Kenya, Madagascar, Malaysia, Mauritius, Mozambique, Oman, Seychelles, Singapore, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Thailand, United Arab Emirates and Yemen. Perth Pri nci pl es Perth Pri nci pl es Perth Pri nci pl es Perth Pri nci pl es Perth Pri nci pl es Reiterating that IORA is the apex pan-regional organisation for the Indian Ocean. Recalling the six priority areas of cooperation agreed at the eleventh COMM (Council of Ministers Meeting) in Bengaluru, namely: Maritime Safety and Security; Trade and Investment Facilitation; Fisheries Management; Disaster Risk Management; Academic and Science and Technology Cooperation; and Tourism and Cultural Exchanges. Recalling Also our desire to promote the sustainable growth and balanced development of the Indian Ocean region and IORA Member States, and to create common ground for regional economic cooperation. Committed to promoting cooperation and collaboration between IORA and other Indian Ocean regional stakeholders including Dialogue Partner States and other regional and international forums. Reaffirming our commitment to the Charter of the United Nations, to the Charter of IORA, and to the applicable principles of international law. Reaffirming Also our commitment to The Future We Want, as adopted at the 2012 United Nation as Conference on Sustainable Development, and to the protection, restoration, health, productivity and resilience of the Indian Ocean and its resources. Recognising that the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea provides the legal framework for the conservation and sustainable use of the oceans and their resources and plays a vital role in maintaining peaceful cooperation and stability across the Indian Ocean. About the I ORA About the I ORA About the I ORA About the I ORA About the I ORA The IOR-ARC was formally launched at the first Ministerial Meeting in Mauritius on 6 7 March 1997. This meeting adopted the IOR- ARC Charter, and determined a number of administrative and procedural matters. The apex body of the IOR-ARC is the Council of (Foreign) Ministers (COM). The meeting of the COM is preceded by the meetings of the Indian Ocean Rim Academic Group (IORAG), Indian Ocean Rim Business Forum (IORBF), Working Group on Trade and Investment (WGTI), and the Committee of Senior Officials (CSO). The Coordinating Secretariat of IOR- ARC is located at Ebne, Mauritius. Apart from a Secretary-General, its present staff strength at the executive level includes two Directors and eight local staff. IORA was formerly known as IOR-ARC (Indian Ocean Rim Association for Regional Cooperation). Members of IORA (IOR-ARC) Members of IORA (IOR-ARC) Members of IORA (IOR-ARC) Members of IORA (IOR-ARC) Members of IORA (IOR-ARC) The Indian Ocean Rim- Association for Regional Cooperation (IOR-ARC), initially known as the Indian Ocean Rim Initiative, is an I n t e r n a t i o n a l / Di p l o ma t i c Organization with 20 Member States namely Australia, Bangladesh, Comoros, India, Indonesia, Iran, Kenya, Madagascar, Malaysia, Mauritius, Mozambique, Oman, Seychelles, Singapore, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Thailand, Arab Emirates and Yemen. Whereas the China, Egypt, France, Japan, United Kingdom and the United States of America are Dialogue Partners of the IOR-ARC. The Indian Ocean Tourism Organisation (IOTO) and Indian Ocean Research Group (IORG) have been granted Observer Status. Agreement to provide Agreement to provide Agreement to provide Agreement to provide Agreement to provide financial assistance to Egypt financial assistance to Egypt financial assistance to Egypt financial assistance to Egypt financial assistance to Egypt European Union on 28 November 2013 signed an agreement to provide the financial assistance worth 122 million dollar (90 million) to Egypt to tide over the financial crisis. The funds under the assistance finance will be used to increase the childrens access to education, social and reaching out to the most impoverished areas and improvements in unplanned housing. An agreement to this effect was signed between the EU foreign policy chief Catherine Marie Ashton and Deputy Prime Minister Ziad Bahaaeeddin of Egypt at Brussels. Apart from this, the two sides have also discussed about the implementation of Egypts political roadmap. This calls for an elected Parliament and president by summer. Afghan-US Bilateral Security Afghan-US Bilateral Security Afghan-US Bilateral Security Afghan-US Bilateral Security Afghan-US Bilateral Security Agreement got nod Agreement got nod Agreement got nod Agreement got nod Agreement got nod The Loya Jirga Loya Jirga Loya Jirga Loya Jirga Loya Jirga, Afghanistans http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 26 26 26 26 26 http://upscportal.com International Issues International Issues International Issues International Issues International Issues Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe Grand Assembly of tribal elders and elite persons on 24 November 2013 gave its consent on the issue of signing the Afghan-US Bilateral Security Agreement that would pave the way for the continuation of some US troops in the country after 2014. 2500 member traditional Loya Jirga after three days of deliberations adopted a 31-point resolution approving the proposed agreement and called upon Afghan President to sign the document by the end of the 2013. However, Afghan President put forward conditions for signing the agreement with the United States. The United States wants the agreement to be signed before the end of the 2013, but the Afghan President has been saying that it may be signed after the presidential elections in Afghanistan in April 2014. The US is to withdraw its troops from Afghanistan next year (2014). About Loya Jirga About Loya Jirga About Loya Jirga About Loya Jirga About Loya Jirga The Afghan constitution of 2003 constituted a Loya Jirga, made up of both houses of parliament and elected heads of regional administrations, with the power to amend the constitution, impeach the president and decide matters of national sovereignty. Cyber Coalition 2013' Cyber Coalition 2013' Cyber Coalition 2013' Cyber Coalition 2013' Cyber Coalition 2013' l aunched l aunched l aunched l aunched l aunched North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) on 26 November 2013 launched a three- day cyber defence exerci se Cyber Coalition Cyber Coalition Cyber Coalition Cyber Coalition Cyber Coalition 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013"in Estonia. The defense exercises are based at the NATOs cyber defense centers in Estonia, Russia and will be held from 26 to 28 November 2013. The Cyber Defence Exercise is aimed at training technical personnel and their leadership as well as testing the capability of NATO and its partners to coordinate their efforts in foiling multiple simulated cyber attacks. The exercises involve participants from more than 30 countries across Europe, including five non-NATO nations: Austria, Finland, Ireland, Sweden, and Switzerland. New Zealand and the European Union have observer status. According to NATO, around 300 cyber defense experts will take part in the operation from their home countries and partner nations while an additional 80 experts will work from the military training facility in the Estonian city of Tartu. About NATO About NATO About NATO About NATO About NATO The North Atlantic Treaty Organization, or NATO, is an intergovernmental military alliance of 28 European and North American countries, ranging from the United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy and Canada to Albania, Bulgaria and Turkey. It was formed in 1949 as deterrence against the Soviet bloc armed forces in Eastern Europe. State of National Calamity declared in Philippines State of National Calamity declared in Philippines State of National Calamity declared in Philippines State of National Calamity declared in Philippines State of National Calamity declared in Philippines President of Philippines, Benigno Aquino on 11 November 2013 declared a state of national calamity to speed relief efforts for victims of Typhoon Haiyan. Leyte and Samar are the much suffered provinces of the country as it suffered massive destruction and loss of life. About 10000 people were killed in Philippines. Tacloban is one of the worst affected cities, as more than thousands of people have been displaced after the high winds and floodwaters. About the Typhoon Haiyan About the Typhoon Haiyan About the Typhoon Haiyan About the Typhoon Haiyan About the Typhoon Haiyan Super Typhoon Haiyan is a category-5 super typhoon to hit Philippines on 8 November 2013 leaving behind many people dead. It also injured many people in the city of Tacloban on Leyte Island. This was one of the most powerful typhoons to hit Philippines. It pushed winds up to 300 kilometers an hour. The typhoon forced millions of people to flee to safe places. http://upscportal.com 27 27 27 27 27 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com International Issues International Issues International Issues International Issues International Issues Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe Russia Successfully Launched Russia Successfully Launched Russia Successfully Launched Russia Successfully Launched Russia Successfully Launched Proton-M Rocket Proton-M Rocket Proton-M Rocket Proton-M Rocket Proton-M Rocket Russia on 12 November 2013 successfully launched the Proton-M rocket carrying a defense satellite, Raduga-1M from its Baikonur cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. It is important to note that Russia restarted the launch of Proton rockets in September 2013 after a small gap in order to check why a Proton rocket launched on 2 July 2013 exploded while taking off. The Proton-M rocket is the most popular rocket of Russia for the commercial satellite launches. About the Raduga-1M About the Raduga-1M About the Raduga-1M About the Raduga-1M About the Raduga-1M Defense Satellite Defense Satellite Defense Satellite Defense Satellite Defense Satellite Raduga-1M is primarily a defense satellite of the third generation. It is a part of the Stage Two Unified Satellite Telecommunications System. It is equipped with the multichannel transponder equipment, which enables it to establish reliable communications with mobile geo-service stations. What is a Proton-M rocket? What is a Proton-M rocket? What is a Proton-M rocket? What is a Proton-M rocket? What is a Proton-M rocket? Proton-M rocket is a Russian carrier rocket which is derived from Soviet-developed Proton. Proton is actually an expendable launch system which is used for commercial as well as Russian Government space launches. Proton-M rocket is built by Khrunichev and launched from sites 81 and 200 at the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. The commercial launches of Proton-M rocket are marketed by International Launch Services (ILS). First Proton-M launch took place on 7 April 2001. All the Protons are built at the Khrunichev plant in Moscow. These are then transported for the launch to Baikonur Cosmodrome from where they are raised into the vertical position for the purpose of launch. Voting Rights of US and Israel Voting Rights of US and Israel Voting Rights of US and Israel Voting Rights of US and Israel Voting Rights of US and Israel over Palestine row suspended over Palestine row suspended over Palestine row suspended over Palestine row suspended over Palestine row suspended UNESCO on 8 November 2013 suspended the voting rights of the United States (US) and Israel. The suspension happened as the two countries stopped paying the dues to the United Nations (UNs) cultural arm from two years in the protest over the grant of full membership to the Palestinians. The funding to UNESCO started in October 2011 because of the laws of US, which prohibits it to pay the dues to any UN agencies giving recognition of the Palestinians demand for their own state. The fund from Israel was pulled out because it objected the one-sided attempts of Palestinians to be recognized of its statehood. The voting rights of the two nations were suspended as they both failed to provide a justification for non-payments of the dues within deadline. UNESCO UNESCO UNESCO UNESCO UNESCO In 1945, UNESCO was created in order to respond to the firm belief of nations, forged by two world wars in less than a generation that political and economic agreements are not enough to build a lasting peace. Peace must be established on the basis of humanitys moral and intellectual solidarity. UNESCO strives to build UNESCO strives to build UNESCO strives to build UNESCO strives to build UNESCO strives to build networks among nations that networks among nations that networks among nations that networks among nations that networks among nations that enable this kind of solidarity, enable this kind of solidarity, enable this kind of solidarity, enable this kind of solidarity, enable this kind of solidarity, by: by: by: by: by: Mobilizing for education: Mobilizing for education: Mobilizing for education: Mobilizing for education: Mobilizing for education: so that every child, boy or girl, has access to quality education as a fundamental human right and as a prerequisite for human development. Bui l di ng i ntercul tural Bui l di ng i ntercul tural Bui l di ng i ntercul tural Bui l di ng i ntercul tural Bui l di ng i ntercul tural understanding: understanding: understanding: understanding: understanding: through protection of heritage and support for cultural diversity. UNESCO created the idea of World Heritage to protect sites of outstanding universal value. Pursui ng sci enti fi c Pursui ng sci enti fi c Pursui ng sci enti fi c Pursui ng sci enti fi c Pursui ng sci enti fi c cooperation: cooperation: cooperation: cooperation: cooperation: such as early warning systems for tsunamis or trans-boundary water management agreements, to strengthen ties between nations and societies. Protecti ng freedom of Protecti ng freedom of Protecti ng freedom of Protecti ng freedom of Protecti ng freedom of expressi on: expressi on: expressi on: expressi on: expressi on: an essential condition for democracy, development and human dignity Mal ta to Host Next Mal ta to Host Next Mal ta to Host Next Mal ta to Host Next Mal ta to Host Next Commonweal th Summi t i n 2015 Commonweal th Summi t i n 2015 Commonweal th Summi t i n 2015 Commonweal th Summi t i n 2015 Commonweal th Summi t i n 2015 Malta, a Southern European country was on 17 November 2013 unanimously chosen as the host of the next Commonwealth summit in 2015. The decision was made at the retreat session of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Colombo, Sri Lanka after Mauritius withdrew as host of the 2015 Commonwealth summit as a result of its prime ministers boycott of the Colombo summit over Sri Lankas human rights concerns. This is second time for Malta to host the Commonwealth summit. Before this, Malta hosted a Commonwealth Summit in 2005. http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 28 28 28 28 28 http://upscportal.com International Issues International Issues International Issues International Issues International Issues Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe About Malta About Malta About Malta About Malta About Malta Malta is a southern European country in the Mediterranean Sea. The country covers just over 316 km2 (122 sq mi), making it one of the worlds smallest and most densely populated countries. The capital of Malta is Valletta which is also the smallest capital in the EU. Malta has two official languages: Maltese and English. Malta comprises an archipelago of six islands and islets in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, 93km south of Sicily and 290km from the coast of North Africa. Malta, Gozo and Comino are inhabited; the other islands are Cominotto, Filfla and St Pauls Island. Malta got independence from the United Kingdom in 1964 and became a republic in 1974 and joined the European Union in May 2004. Malta Malta Malta Malta Malta joined the Commonwealth of joined the Commonwealth of joined the Commonwealth of joined the Commonwealth of joined the Commonwealth of Nations in 1964. Nations in 1964. Nations in 1964. Nations in 1964. Nations in 1964. Malta is a member of the Council of Europe, European Union, Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, United Nations and World Trade Organization. About CHOGM 2013 About CHOGM 2013 About CHOGM 2013 About CHOGM 2013 About CHOGM 2013 The 22nd Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) held in Colombo, Sri Lanka, from 15-17 November 2013 on the t heme Growth with Equity: Growth with Equity: Growth with Equity: Growth with Equity: Growth with Equity: Incl usi ve Devel opment. Incl usi ve Devel opment. Incl usi ve Devel opment. Incl usi ve Devel opment. Incl usi ve Devel opment. The event concluded with the adoption of the independent declarations - on Youth, International Trade and Inclusive Development and the release of Summit Communiqu. Pakistan Successfully Test Pakistan Successfully Test Pakistan Successfully Test Pakistan Successfully Test Pakistan Successfully Test Fired Hatf IX (Nasr) Fired Hatf IX (Nasr) Fired Hatf IX (Nasr) Fired Hatf IX (Nasr) Fired Hatf IX (Nasr) Pakistan on 5 November 2013 successfully test-fired Hatf IX (Nasr) missile, a surface-to-surface missile with a range of 60 km. The test fire was conducted with successive launches of 4 x missiles (Salvo) from a state of the art multi tube launcher. Nasr, with a range of 60 Kilometer and in-flight maneuver capability is a quick response system, with shoot and scoot attributes. It contributes to the full spectrum deterrence against threats in view of evolving scenarios. Facts related to Hatf IX (Nasr) Facts related to Hatf IX (Nasr) Facts related to Hatf IX (Nasr) Facts related to Hatf IX (Nasr) Facts related to Hatf IX (Nasr) Nasr is designed specifically to defeat Anti-Tactical Missile Defence Systems of all kinds. The test firing of short range surface-to-surface missile Hatf IX (Nasr) was a part of medium- range ballistic missiles [MRBM] and short-range surface-to- surface ballistic missile [SRBMs]. The missile has the capability to carry nuclear weapons. Largest Nuclear Power Project Largest Nuclear Power Project Largest Nuclear Power Project Largest Nuclear Power Project Largest Nuclear Power Project in Pakistan Launched in Pakistan Launched in Pakistan Launched in Pakistan Launched in Pakistan Launched Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on 26 November 2013 launched the construction of the countrys biggest Nuclear power project. The 2200-MegaWatt- Karachi Coastal Power Project Karachi Coastal Power Project Karachi Coastal Power Project Karachi Coastal Power Project Karachi Coastal Power Project, comprising the K-2 and K-3 nuclear plants, is being built at Paradise Beach, located 40 km from the Karachi. The nuclear power plant is to be built with Chinese technical assistance on the Arabian Sea coast. Pakistan already has three operational nuclear plants generating a total of around 740 MW of power. The World Nuclear Association has estimated the cost of the new project at nearly 10 billion Dollars. Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission engineers will work on the project with help from the China Atomic Energy Authority. As Pakistan is not party to the Nucl ear Non-Prol i ferati on Nucl ear Non-Prol i ferati on Nucl ear Non-Prol i ferati on Nucl ear Non-Prol i ferati on Nucl ear Non-Prol i ferati on Treaty Treaty Treaty Treaty Treaty it is excluded from the international trade in nuclear materials and technology, and can rely only on its neighbour China for help. UN Court ruled for Cambodia UN Court ruled for Cambodia UN Court ruled for Cambodia UN Court ruled for Cambodia UN Court ruled for Cambodia The UNs International Court of Justice ruled on 11 November 2013 that the area around a flashpoint ancient temple on the Thai border http://upscportal.com 29 29 29 29 29 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com International Issues International Issues International Issues International Issues International Issues Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe belongs to Cambodia. The International Court of Justice interpreted a 1962 ruling saying that Cambodia had sovereignty over the whole territory of the promontory of Preah Vihear temple Preah Vihear temple Preah Vihear temple Preah Vihear temple Preah Vihear temple. In 2012, the ICJ ruled that both countries should withdraw forces from around the ancient Khmer temple, which is perched on a clifftop in Cambodia but is more easily accessed from the Thai side. Thailand does not dispute Cambodias ownership of the temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, but both sides laid claim to an adjacent 4.6-square- km piece of land. At least 28 people have been killed in outbreaks of violence since 2011 over the ownership of the patch of land next to the 900-year-old Preah Vihear temple. About Preah Vihear Temple About Preah Vihear Temple About Preah Vihear Temple About Preah Vihear Temple About Preah Vihear Temple The Preah Vihear Temple is a Khmer Hindu temple situated atop a 525-meter cliff in the Dngrk Mountains of Cambodia. The temple complex runs 800m along a north- south axis. It was built mainly during the 11th and 12th centuries during the reigns of the kings Suryavarman I (and Suryavarman II). Ownership of the temple by Cambodia has been under dispute from neighbouring Thailand. In 1962 the International Court of Justice in The Hague ruled that it belonged to Cambodia. The Preah Vihear temple was made a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2008 NASA Launched MAVEN NASA Launched MAVEN NASA Launched MAVEN NASA Launched MAVEN NASA Launched MAVEN Mission to study Mars Mission to study Mars Mission to study Mars Mission to study Mars Mission to study Mars Atmosphere Atmosphere Atmosphere Atmosphere Atmosphere The US space agency NASA on 18 November 2013 launched Roadmap for destruction of Roadmap for destruction of Roadmap for destruction of Roadmap for destruction of Roadmap for destruction of Syrias Chemical Weapons Syrias Chemical Weapons Syrias Chemical Weapons Syrias Chemical Weapons Syrias Chemical Weapons adopted adopted adopted adopted adopted Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), the UN Chemical weapons watchdog on 15 November 2013 started its work on the final roadmap for the destruction of chemical arsenals of Syria. In the plan, Syrian chemical weapons will be transported for destruction outside its territory to ensure their destruction in the safest and soonest manner, and no later than 30 June 2014. The deadline of OPCW to agree on the destruction milestones of more than 1000 tonnes of dangerous chemicals in Syria expired on 15 November 2013. The plan was adopted during the meeting of its 41-member Executive Council in The Hague. The UN Security Council gave its mandate to the agency to destroy the weapons of mass destruction by mid-2014. As per the reports, OPCW will send the resource for packaging and handling the chemical materials to 12 chemical storage sites by December 2013, under a tentative plan. Subsequently, the chemicals would be taken to Syrias Latakia port from where they would be shipped out by 5 February 2013. About Organization for the About Organization for the About Organization for the About Organization for the About Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Prohibition of Chemical Prohibition of Chemical Prohibition of Chemical Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) Weapons (OPCW) Weapons (OPCW) Weapons (OPCW) Weapons (OPCW) The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons is the implementing body of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) that entered into force in 1997. As of today the OPCW has 190 i t s MAVEN MAVEN MAVEN MAVEN MAVEN orbiter Mission to Mars planet. The orbiter mission was l aunched on an Atlas V Atlas V Atlas V Atlas V Atlas V rocket rocket rocket rocket rocket from Florida s Cape Canaveral Air Force Station at 18:28 GMT. The probe will have a 10-month cruise to the Red Planet- Mars. MAVEN is going to study Mars atmosphere. During the course of the long cruise, Maven will perform four trajectory corrections, with the first scheduled to occur on 3rd December 2013. About MAVEN Mission About MAVEN Mission About MAVEN Mission About MAVEN Mission About MAVEN Mission The Mars Atmosphere and Volatile EvolutioN (MAVEN) mission is part of NASAs Mars Scout program. The mission will explore the Red Planets upper atmosphere, ionosphere and interactions with the sun and solar wind. The trip to Mars takes 10 months, and MAVEN will go into orbit around Mars in September 2014. MAVEN will be the NASAs first spacecraft mission dedicated to exploring the upper atmosphere of Mars. Scientists will use MAVEN data to determine the role that loss of volatile from the Mars atmosphere to space has played through time, giving insight into the history of Mars atmosphere and climate, liquid water, and planetary habitability. The entire MAVEN mission cost 671 million US Dollars. http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 30 30 30 30 30 http://upscportal.com International Issues International Issues International Issues International Issues International Issues Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe Member States, who are working together to achieve a world free from chemical weapons. They share the collective goal of preventing chemistry from ever again being used for warfare, thereby strengthening international security. Agreement for the Agreement for the Agreement for the Agreement for the Agreement for the Development of Dara-Suf to Development of Dara-Suf to Development of Dara-Suf to Development of Dara-Suf to Development of Dara-Suf to Yakawlang Highway Yakawlang Highway Yakawlang Highway Yakawlang Highway Yakawlang Highway The Government of Afghanistan on 10 November 2013 signed an agreement with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for the development of road network in the country at a cost of 220 million US dollar. The agreement was signed between Afghan Finance Minister Dr. Hazrat Omar Zakhilwal and the ADB Country Director Joji Tokeshi in Kabul. Major Highlights of the Major Highlights of the Major Highlights of the Major Highlights of the Major Highlights of the Agreement Agreement Agreement Agreement Agreement The agreement envisages reconstruction of 178 kilometer north-south corridor road joining northern Balkh province with the central Bamyan province of Afghanistan. This connectivity will play an important role in joining Afghanistan to the other regional countries. The agreement includes reconstruction of the 178km Dara-Suf to Yakawlang highway, preliminary survey of Gardan Diwal to Cheghcharan road and preliminary survey of Kabuls ring road. It is important to note that the northern and southern parts of Afghanistan are linked by the Asian Highway which passes through the Salang Pass situated at an altitude of nearly 12000 foot in the Hindukush Mountains. However, due to the snowfall during winters, the highway gets blocked leading to the obstacle in connecting northern and southern Afghanistan. The proposed north-south corridor will provide an alternative route between the two reagions of the country. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) also facilitated execution of the Turkmenistan- Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) project, which is actually an opportunity for the regional cooperation at an unprecedented scale, linking the four countries economically. It is worth noticing that the Asian Development Bank (ADB) had earlier decided to support Afghanistan and commit to the economic development after the year 2014. UN urged Myanmar to grant UN urged Myanmar to grant UN urged Myanmar to grant UN urged Myanmar to grant UN urged Myanmar to grant Rights to Rohingya Muslims Rights to Rohingya Muslims Rights to Rohingya Muslims Rights to Rohingya Muslims Rights to Rohingya Muslims The UN General Assemblys human rights committee on 19 November 2013 passed a resolution urging Myanmar to give the stateless Rohingya minority equal access to citizenship. The committee also asked Myanmar to crack down on violence against them and other Muslims in Myanmar. The resolution also expressed concern about remaining human rights violations, including arbitrary arrests and detentions of political activists and human rights defenders, forced displacement, land confiscations, rape and other forms of sexual violence and torture and cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment. In the resolution, the 193-nation committee reiterated its serious concern about communal violence and other abuses of the Rohingya minority in Rakhine State of Myanmar. The UN resolution, which will move to the full UN General Assembly, acknowledged the scale of the reform effort undertaken so far in Myanmar. Background Background Background Background Background Myanmar emerged from a half- century of military rule in 2011, but its transition to democracy has been marred by sectarian violence that has left more than 240 people dead and sent another 240000 fleeing their homes, most of them Rohingya Muslims. In 1982, Myanmar passed a citizenship law recognising eight races and 130 minority groups but omitted the nations 800000 Rohingya, among Myanmars 60 million people. Many Myanmar Buddhists view the Rohingya as interlopers brought in by British colonialists from modern-day Bangladesh, but many Rohingya say they have lived in the country once known as Burma for hundreds of years. Egypt Panel approved New Egypt Panel approved New Egypt Panel approved New Egypt Panel approved New Egypt Panel approved New Draft Constitution Draft Constitution Draft Constitution Draft Constitution Draft Constitution http://upscportal.com 31 31 31 31 31 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com International Issues International Issues International Issues International Issues International Issues Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe An Egyptian constitutional panel on 1 December 2013 approved a new draft constitution for Egypt Government.50-member constitution drafting panel headed by Amre Amre Amre Amre Amre Moussa Moussa Moussa Moussa Moussa approved draft- constitution, which contains 247 Articles. According to the countrys officials, the referendum on the draft constitution is to be held in January 2014. Key provision in the new draft Key provision in the new draft Key provision in the new draft Key provision in the new draft Key provision in the new draft Constitution Constitution Constitution Constitution Constitution Presidential powers Presidential powers Presidential powers Presidential powers Presidential powers President to only serve two four-year terms. Candidates must be at least 40 years old. President appoints prime minister. President can dismiss the government with the approval of the majority of parliament. Military Powers Military Powers Military Powers Military Powers Military Powers It gives more power to military, including an article that allows trial of civilians in martial courts. Military budget to be discussed by a national defence council. The defense minister must be appointed in agreement with the military. Religion Religion Religion Religion Religion Islamic law, or sharia, the main source of legislation. Political parties may not be formed on the basis of religion. Freedom and rights Freedom and rights Freedom and rights Freedom and rights Freedom and rights Political parties cannot be formed on the basis of gender, race, sect or geography. Parties must not have military or paramilitary components. Citizens have the right to organise public meetings and demonstrations and all forms of peaceful protests. Background Background Background Background Background 1. Egypt is witnessing a political crisis since the resignation of the long-serving leader Hosni Mubarak in February 2011 (During the Arab spring). 2. The country is deeply divided between Islamist and secular groups, while the Egyptian military remains the countrys chief decision-maker. 3. The first democratic elections held for Egypt in December 2011, and won by the Islamist- Muslim Brotherhood group. But Egypt s first democratically elected parliament was dissolved in June 2012. 4. The Muslim Brotherhood candidate Mohammed Morsi won the presidential elections in June 2012. 5. In July 2013, Egyptian army ousted Morsis government, suspended the constitution and dissolved the parliament and army appointed Mansour as the new interim president. 6. The interim authorities suspended the previous constitution written under Morsi s government and appointed new panel for new constitution in September 2013. New Army New Army New Army New Army New Army Chief of Pakistan Appointed Chief of Pakistan Appointed Chief of Pakistan Appointed Chief of Pakistan Appointed Chief of Pakistan Appointed Nawaz Sharif, the Prime Minister of Pakistan appointed Lt Gen Raheel Sharif as the new Chief of Army Staff and Lt Gen Rashad Mahmood as the Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee. Lt Gen Raheel Sharif and Lt Gen Rashad Mahmood have been promoted to the rank of four-star general. The generals will take up the new posts from 27 November 2013, the day when the 61 year old Gen Ashfaq Parvez Kayani will retire from the post of Army Chief. Lt Gen Raheel is currently serving as Inspector General, Training and Evaluation, whereas Lt Gen Mahmood is serving as Chief of General Staff. The names of the two commanders were recommended by Sharif after endorsement by the President Mamnoon Hussain. Both were promoted to the General rank from Lt. Generals by the President. The prior appointments of Lt General Sharif include Commander, Gujranwala XXX Corps, Commandant of Pakistan Military Academy Kakul and General Officer Commanding Lahore. Lt Gen Mahmood has served as the Corps Commander of Lahore as well as the military secretary to former President Rafiq Tarar. Mahmood belongs to the Baloch Regiment and had served under General Kayani as ISI deputy director general. Silvio Berlusconi expelled Silvio Berlusconi expelled Silvio Berlusconi expelled Silvio Berlusconi expelled Silvio Berlusconi expelled from Italian Parliament from Italian Parliament from Italian Parliament from Italian Parliament from Italian Parliament The Italian Senate on 27 November 2013 expelled ex- Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi from Parliament over his tax fraud conviction. The Senate declared Berlusconi ineligible for parliament after he was convicted of masterminding a complex system of illegally inflated invoices to cut the tax bill for his Mediaset television empire. http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 32 32 32 32 32 http://upscportal.com International Issues International Issues International Issues International Issues International Issues Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe About Silvio Berlusconi About Silvio Berlusconi About Silvio Berlusconi About Silvio Berlusconi About Silvio Berlusconi He was born on 29 September 1936. Berlusconi, 77, is an entrepreneur, media tycoon and politician. In 1993, Berlusconi founded his own political party, Forza Italia - Go Italy - named after a chant used by Italian football fans. Berlusconi as Italian politician dominated for two decades and he served three times as Prime Minister (In between 1994-2011). He was the member of Italian senate. He was involved in many scandals during his political career, like charges of abuse of office and corruption. Venezuela President got Venezuela President got Venezuela President got Venezuela President got Venezuela President got Special Powers Special Powers Special Powers Special Powers Special Powers Nicolas Maduro, the President of Venezuela on 19 November 2013 got the final approval to special powers by Venezuela National Assembly. Because of this approval, Maduro will be able to govern without consulting the congress for 12 years. The new powers assigned to the power will help him to tackle corruption and the economic crisis of the country. Presently, Venezuela is facing the shortages of food and other essential goods, power cuts and inflation about 54 percent. As the economic sabotage activity, the retailers of the country have been forced to slash the prices up to 60 percent. Strict controls over the sale of the foreign currency have been introduced by the government to control the growing black market of dollars. Dubai to host World Expo Dubai to host World Expo Dubai to host World Expo Dubai to host World Expo Dubai to host World Expo 2020 2020 2020 2020 2020 Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) on 27 November 2013 voted in favour of Dubai to be the host city for the World Trade Fair or EXPO 2020. EXPO 2020. EXPO 2020. EXPO 2020. EXPO 2020. This was decided after the third and the final round of voting in Paris on 27 November 2013. Four cities including Dubai in UAE, Yekaterinbergh in Russia, Sao Paulo in Brazil and Izmir in Turkey were competing to host the prestigious event. The theme of Dubai for the EXPO 2020 is Connecting Minds, Connecting Minds, Connecting Minds, Connecting Minds, Connecting Minds, Creating the Future Creating the Future Creating the Future Creating the Future Creating the Future. A Worl d Expo in Dubai in 2020 would be the first to be held in the MENASA MENASA MENASA MENASA MENASA (Middle East, North Africa and South Asia) region, which takes place every five years. The yearlong event is considered a major event since the award of the EXPO brings home more number of visitors and adds to the trade, economy, tourism and hospitality sectors in the host city. The focus is on attracting 25 million people and through word of mouth may be 100 million over three to four years. This will give a boost to the local economy, trade, realty, tourism and retail sectors in the long run. About World Expo About World Expo About World Expo About World Expo About World Expo World Expos is a meeting point for the global community to share innovations and make progress on issues of international importance such as the global economy, sustainable development and improved quality of life for the worlds population.The first world expo was held in London in 1851. This Expo will be held every five years in different cities across the world. The last world expo took place in 2010 2010 2010 2010 2010 at Shanghai at Shanghai at Shanghai at Shanghai at Shanghai, China and the next World Expo takes place in Milan, Milan, Milan, Milan, Milan, Italy, in 2015 Italy, in 2015 Italy, in 2015 Italy, in 2015 Italy, in 2015. The focus: Feeding the Planet, Energy for Life. About Bureau International About Bureau International About Bureau International About Bureau International About Bureau International des Expositions des Expositions des Expositions des Expositions des Expositions The Paris-based Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) is the international body responsible for overseeing the calendar, bidding, selection and organisation of World Expos. It has a total of 167 member countries. Iran Unveiled Iran Unveiled Iran Unveiled Iran Unveiled Iran Unveiled New Biggest Drone New Biggest Drone New Biggest Drone New Biggest Drone New Biggest Drone Iran on 18 November 2013 unveiled a biggest missile-equipped drone with a range of 2000 km, which would enable it to cover much of the Middle East, including Israel. The drone named Fotros Fotros Fotros Fotros Fotros has an http://upscportal.com 33 33 33 33 33 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com International Issues International Issues International Issues International Issues International Issues Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe operational range of 2000 kilometres and can fly at an altitude of 25000 feet, with a flight time of 16 to 30 hours. The drone could carry out reconnaissance missions or launch air-to-surface missile strikes. In September 2013, Iran announced the mass production of the Shahed Shahed Shahed Shahed Shahed 129 129 129 129 129 drone, which it said has a range of 1700 kilometres, is capable of carrying eight missiles and can fly for 24 hours. In the same month, Iran unveiled a reconnaissance drone named Yasseer Yasseer Yasseer Yasseer Yasseer, which was said to be capable of flying for eight hours with a range of 200 kilometres and at an altitude of 4500 meters. Yasseer was based on the US ScanEagle drone, a model of which Tehran claimed to have captured in December 2012 and reproduced since then. The Iranian army also recently claimed that it was producing a series of drones called Rad-85. http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 36 http://upscportal.com India & The World Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: //www.upscportal .com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civi lservi cesmentor. com/mag/subscri be I N D I A
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W O R L D INDIA AND RUSSIA Indi a and Russia on 18 November 2013 agreed to expand the range of strategic partnership in a significant manner in Moscow. The two countries will also hold a Joint Air Force Level exercise for the first time in 2014. The decision was taken during the 13th Meeting of the India Russi a Inter-Governmental Commission on Military Technical Cooperation (IRITC-MTC) and it was co chaired by AK Antony, the Defence Minister of India and His counterpart of Russia, Sergey Shoigu. This decision was taken by the two countries within two days after commissioning of INS Vikramadatya into Indian Navy. The Agreements The two countries agreed to hold a joint Air Force level exercise for the first time, which will happen in 2014 with a joint Navy Exercise in the Peter the Great Bay in the Sea of Japan. Recently, the armies of the two countries held an Exercise Indra in Rajasthan with a focus on anti-terrorism. Agreement was reached between the two ministers on further cooperation at all levels, especi al ly i n vi ew of the regional and global challenges and to fight the menace of terrorism jointly. Both sides reviewed the situation in West Asia, especially in Syria and the evol vi ng paradi gm i n Afghanistan. The two sides also agreed on to expand the cooperation not only in product design and devel opment but al so to involve various echelons of the Defence establishments in strategi zi ng pol i ci es and cooperati on i n the fast changi ng gl obal securi ty scenario. The Indian delegation in Russia also laid a wreath at the World War-II memorial at Poklonnaya Gora (Bow- Down Hill) of the Victory Park. A ceremonial guard of honour was also presented. Shoigu has also assured to India that the Indian pilots will be trai ned by the Naval Avi ation Specialists to take offs and landing on the INS Vikramaditya, which may be held in Goa. INDIA AND MALAYSIA India and Malaysia signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 25 November 2013 to strengthen co-operation in public administration and governance as part of the efforts to enhance their strategic partnership. The MoU http://upscportal.com 37 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com India & The World Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: //www.upscportal .com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civi lservi cesmentor. com/mag/subscri be covers eight areas of co-operation i ncl udi ng human resource management, e-governance, public delivery system, accountability and transparency, skills and capacity building and quality results. The MoU was signed by Malaysias Public Servi ce Department Di rector- General Mohamad Zabidi Zainal and the Secretary of Indias Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances of Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Sanjay Kothari. The MoU envisages cooperation via tours, workshops and conferences, sharing of public administration and governance information and expertise, common project implementation mechanisms and exchange of publications, state. considered the need of establishing good communication between the BRICS Competition Authorities on competition law and policy to further improving and strengthening the relationship between the BRICS Competition Authorities. BRICS Competition Authorities, while recognising the benefits of technical cooperation among the competition agencies, in sound and effective enforcement of competition laws expressed thei r resol ve and commitment to exchange views on different aspects of competition policy. The Competition Authorities of BRICS also support the hosting of the Fourth BRICS ICC during 2015 at South Africa. The Delhi Accord was signed by Al essandro Serafi n Octaviani Luis, Commissioner, CADE for the Brazilian Competition Policy System, by Andrey Tsarikovsky, Stats Secretary-Deputy Head of the FAS, Russia for the Federal Antimonopoly Service of the Russian Federation, by Ashok Chawla, Chairman, for the Competition Commission of India, by Sun Hongzhi, Vice Minister, for the State Administration for Industry and Commerce of the Peoples Republic of China and by Tembinkos Bonakele, Acti ng Commi ssi oner for the Competition Commission of South Africa. INDIA & BELGIUM Princess Astrid of Belgium on 28 November 2013 inaugurated the Consulate General of Belgium in Chennai for expansion of the bilateral ties with India. This is the second INDIA AND AUSTRALIA S. No Document Australian Signatory Indian Signatory Remarks 1. Amendments on MoU between the Central Board of Excise & Customs of the Republic of India and the Australian Customs Service on Customs Cooperation on Mutual Administrative Assistance Patrick Suckling Australian High Commissioner to India Praveen Mahajan Chairperson, Central Board of Excise and Customs The amendments allow both parties to establish Joint Working Group for the effective implementation of the MOU 2. Statement of Intent between the Government of Australia and Nalanda University to Progress a three year arrangement towards a chair of Ecology and Environment Studies at the University Patrick Suckling Australian High Commissioner to India Gopa Sabharwal Vice Chancellor, Nalanda University Both sides agree to work towards establishment of Chair of Ecology & Environment Studies at the University. India and Australia on 18 November 2013 si gned two agreements in New Delhi during the visit of Foreign Minister of Australia, Julie Bishop to India. She was on four days visit to India from 15 November to 18 November 2013. Li st of documents signed during the visit of Foreign Minister of Australia to India: BRICS Nations signed the Del hi Accord The Heads of the Competition Authorities of BRICS Nations signed a Joi nt Accord namel y Del hi Accord on 22 November 2013 at 3rd BRICS International Competition Conference (ICC) at New Delhi. The Delhi Accord was signed to ensure effecti ve enforcement of competition rules, among the BRICS nations and to strengthen the co- operation among their fair trade regulators by exchanging views and boosting communication. BRICS Competi ti on Authori ti es also http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 38 http://upscportal.com India & The World Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: //www.upscportal .com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civi lservi cesmentor. com/mag/subscri be Consulate General and the third diplomatic mission in India. Princess Astrid is the representative of the King of Belgium, who is on a visit to India from 23-30 November, 2013. At present is leading a high power trade delegation to India. As per the Belgian Ambassador to India, Pierre Vaessen the initiative was part of his countrys efforts to strengthen presence in India, mainly in South India. At present about 160 Belgian companies are operational in India, which of maximum are in South India. India and Belgium generally do trade of 15 billion, which mainly includes diamond business. The trade could also be diversified into different sectors l i ke green technology, renewable energy and chemical and pharmacy industries. INDIA & BANGLADESH The first Integrated Checkpost al ong Agartala-Akhaura, Indi a- Bangladesh border was jointly inaugurated on 17 November 2013 by Union Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde and hi s Bangl adeshi counterpart Mohi uddi n Khan Alamgir. The chief Mister of Tripura, Manik Sarkar was also present on the occasion. The integrated checkpost has been created to facilitate easier movement for the goods and passengers across the border and this will help in promoting the relations between India and Bangladesh. The Agartala-Akhaura Integrated checkpost is the first of the seven Land Customs Border Stations has been upgraded by the Land Port Authority of India along the 4096 km border. The Integrated Checkpost houses all regulatory agencies, which includes Immigration, Customs and Border Security and it constitutes a single complex equipped with the state-of-art facilities with dedicated cargo and passenger terminals, ware- housi ng and banki ng. Trade between India and Bangladesh has improved significantly after India granted zero-customs and zero-quota trade concessions to all Bangladeshi on 8 November 2013. The Indian side was led by External Affairs Minister, Salman Khurshid, while the Republic of Korea (ROK) side was led by Foreign Minister Yun Byung-se. The two nati ons did a comprehensive review of bilateral relations, which were upgraded to a Strategic Partnership and acquired range and depth over the past few years. Noting that high level political exchanges had imparted momentum to the relationship, India and South Korea discussed the possibility of a visit to India by ROK President Madame Park Geun-hye in early 2014. The JCM discussed ways to add strategic and economic content to bilateral ties including in the political, security, trade, investment, consular, scientific and cultural spheres. Regional and international issues of mutual interest were also discussed. The 8th India-ROK Joint Commission Meeting at a mutually convenient time will be held in Seoul in 2014. INDIA AND VIETNAM India and Vietnam signed eight agreements on 20 November 2013 in areas of defence and security, oil exploration, civil aviation and products, except 25 i tems. Bangladeshi exports to India hit a record of 562 million dollar during 2012-13. INDIA & REPUBLIC OF KOREA The 7th India-Republic of Korea (South Korea) Joint Commission Meeting (JCM) was held in New Delhi http://upscportal.com 39 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com India & The World Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: //www.upscportal .com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civi lservi cesmentor. com/mag/subscri be scientific research. India will also assist Vietnam in the modernization and training of the defence and security forces of Vietnam and agreed to give a 100 million dollar line of credit to Vietnam for defence purchases. The agreements were signed by Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh and General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam, Nguyen Phu Trong in New Delhi after delegation level talks. S.No Name Vietnamese Signatory Indian Signatory Remarks 1. Air Service Agreement Dinh La Thang, Minister for Transport Ajit Singh, Minister for Civil Aviation The ASA seeks to promote international air services, including direct flights between the two countries and also to promote an international aviation system based on competition among airlines. The ASA will ensure the highest degree of safety and security in international air services and reaffirms the grave concern about acts or threats against the security of aircraft, which jeopardize the safety of persons or property and adversely affects the operation of air services. 2. MOU for setting up of the Indira Gandhi Hightech Crime Lab (IGHCL ) in Hanoi Lieutenant General Le Quy Vuong, Deputy Minister for Public Security Preeti Saran, Ambassador of India to Vietnam The MoU reaffirms the desire to further strengthen and consolidate the cooperation between the two countries in the field of crime investigation, counter terrorism and other transnational organized crime, and other relevant areas. India shall provide financial grant towards procurement of technical equipment for IGHCL, teaching aids, training programmes for staff members and deputation of experts and Vietnam shall provide a permanent venue and related infrastructure to establish the IGHCL in Hanoi. 3. Agreement on Protection of Classified Information Senior Lieutenant General Nguyen Chi Vinh, Deputy Minister for Defence Radha Krishna Mathur, Defence Secretary The MoU is based on the principles of the MoU on Defence Cooperation signed between the two countries in November 2009 to recognise the benefits of sharing of information and to confirm mutual interest in protection of such information in accordance with the respective national laws and relevant provisions. 4. MOU between two Ministries of Finance Vu Thi Mai, Deputy Minister for Finance Arvind Mayaram, Secretary, Dept. of Economic Affairs The MoU will permit the parties to strengthen exchanges and share experiences in the fiscal policies for transitional economies, macroeconomic management, budget management process, financial policies to support high technology and software technology development. Exchange of financial policies would be used to develop policies in related areas as mutually agreed by the Parties. 5. Cooperation Agreement between Hanoi National University and Indian Council for Scientific and Industrial Research Prof. Phung Xuan Nha, President of Vietnam National University, Hanoi Prof. Samir K Brahmachari, DG CSIR & Secretary, Dept. of Scientific & Industrial Research The purpose of the Agreement is to promote Scientific and Technical Cooperation between the two institutions aimed at developing long term S&T collaboration between the two countries and also promoting friendly relations. This would include exchange of Scientists, Research Scholars and Specialists etc. for the purpose of research, training and consultation. 6. MoU on Cooperation between India Institute of Management (IIM) Bangalore and HCM National Academy of Public Administration Prof. Truong Thi Thong, Vice President of Ho Chi Minh National Academy of Public Administration Prof. Devanath Tirupati, Director (In-Charge), IIMB The MoU shall focus on the activities and programmes such as exchange of faculty members and students, joint research activities, participation in seminars and academic meetings, exchange of academic materials and other information, special short-term academic programmes, training programmes and study tours. The cooperation will initially be focused on Public Policy, Entrepreneurship, Corporate Governance, Training for executives from public and private sector enterprises, Social Sciences and Student & Faculty Exchanges. 7. MoU between Vietnam Oil and Gas Group and ONGC Videsh Limited(OVL) Nguyen Vu Truong Son, Vice President of Petro Vietnam D. K. Saraf Managing Director, OVL The MoU provides for association in the field of exploration, development and production of petroleum resources between the two countries for new investments by OVL in oil and gas blocks in Vietnam for oil and gas exploration and production. Petro Vietnam is also invited to participate in open blocks in India and in third countries. 8. MOU between Vietnam Ministry of Industry and Trade and Tata Power Ltd. on development of Long Phu 2 Thermal Power Project in Soc Trang, Vietnam Nguyen Khac Tho, Deputy Director General of the Energy Department Anil Sardana, Chief Executive Officer of Tata Power The MoU approves TATA Power belonging to TATA Group to act as Investor to develop Long Phu 2, coal- fired Power Plant Project of 2x660 MW capacity. The Project will be designed, engineered, procured, contracted, constructed, owned, operated and maintained through a BOT Company owned by TATA Power and additional investors, with TATA Power as the lead member and will reach commercial operation in accordance with Agreements with the Vietnam side. http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 40 http://upscportal.com India & The World Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: //www.upscportal .com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civi lservi cesmentor. com/mag/subscri be India and Vietnam signed Treaty on the Transfer of Sentenced Pri soners Indi a and Vi etnam on 1 November 2013 signed a treaty on transfer of sentenced prisoners in the jails in the two countries. The treaty would allow prisoners of the two countries to be near their families and they will have to serve the remaining part of their sentences. This process will help to facilitate the process of their social rehabilitation. The treaty was signed from Sushilkumar Shinde, the Union Home Minister and Tran Dai Quang, the Minister of Public Security of Vietnam. The two sides also held bilateral talks on security matters, issues of training, capacity building, cyber security, cyber crime, trans-national crime, terrorism and disaster management. INDIA AND JAPAN India and Japan on 9 November 2013 decided to further strengthen their cooperation in the maritime sector as a part of the overall robust bilateral relations. The two countries agreed to enhance their interaction through the existing forums and through port-to-port exchanges. This was decided during the visit of Union Minister of Shipping G.K. Vasan, to Japan. India expl ained the developments that were taking place in its Ports sector and assured Japan that concerns regardi ng infrastructure and connectivity of ports are bei ng addressed expeditiously. The ports in Ennore and Chennai are catering to the Japanese car exporters like Toyota and Nissan who have so far exported about 42000 and 300000 cars respectively from these ports. During the talks, India thanked the Japanese government for its support to various Indian Ports and infrastructure proj ects through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). It al so menti oned the possibility of JICA assistance to VOC Port at Thoothukudi for the upcoming Outer Harbour Project. Japan acknowledged the existing cordial relationship between the two nations, assured that it will carry forward the momentum. Japan expressed its interest in shipbuilding and recycling industries in India. India won election to United Nations Board of Auditors India on 1 November 2013 won a crucial election to the UN Board of Auditors with its nominee Shashi Kant Sharma, the Comptroller and Auditor General- by 124 votes out of the total 186. Shashi Kant Sharma won 124 votes out of the total 186 cast in the General Assemblys Fifth Committee on Administrative and Budgetary questions. India won by a comfortable margin against its closest contender the Philippines, which got 62 votes. Having obtained the required majority and the largest number of votes, Shashi Kant Sharma will be appointed to the UN Board of Auditors for a six year term beginning on 1 July 2014. About UN Board of Auditors The General Assembly in 1946 establ i shed the UN Board of Auditors to audit of the accounts of the United Nations organisation and its funds and programmes and to report i ts fi ndings and recommendations to the Assembly through the Advisory Committee on Admi nistrati ve and Budgetary Questions. The Auditors-Generals of UN member states are elected to the Board. India had last sat on the board in 1993 for six years. The United Nations Board of Auditors comprised of the heads of the Supreme Audit Institutions from three Member States, has for more than 60 years provided independent external audit services to the General Assembly. Board has involved certifying the accounts of the UN and i ts funds and programmes, and providing reports covering a wide array of managerial and value for money issues. The overarching goal of the Board is to use the unique perspective of public external audit to both help the General Assembly to hold UN entities to account for the use of public resources, and add value by identifying ways to improve the delivery of international public services. The chairmanship of the Board is rotated every two years, and is currently held by Amyas Morse for the period 2013-2014. Amyas Morse is Comptroller and Auditor General, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. INDIA AND KUWAIT Indi a and Kuwai t on 8 November 2013 agreed to expand cooperation in key areas, which includes energy and investment. Five pacts were signed to strengthen bilateral cooperation in culture and education during the India visit of the Prime Minister of Kuwait, HH Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al- Sabah. During this India visit of the http://upscportal.com 41 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com India & The World Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: //www.upscportal .com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civi lservi cesmentor. com/mag/subscri be Kuwait Prime Minister to India five documents were signed including an agreement on the transfer of sentenced persons, cooperation in the field of sports and youth affairs and exchange of cultural and information programmes, besides cooperation in the field of education. Name of Agreement/ MoU Signatories from India Signatories from Kuwait Remarks Agreement Between the Government of the Republic of India and the State of Kuwait on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons Sushil Kumar Shinde, Minister of Home Affairs Sabah Khaled Al- Hamad Al-Sabah Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs The Agreement aims to enable the transfer of sentenced persons of both the countries to serve their remaining sentences of imprisonment or any other form of punishment in their own country. MoU between the Foreign Service Institute(FSI), Ministry of External Affairs of the Republic of India and the Saud N. Al- Sabah Kuwait Diplomatic Institute(KDI), Ministry of Foreign Affairs, of the State of Kuwait for Cooperation In Mutual Beneficial Area of Activities. Salman Khurshid, External Affairs Minister Sabah Khaled Al- Hamad Al-Sabah Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs The MoU aims at promoting cooperation between the FSI and KDI, including exchange of information on structure and content of training programmes, exchange of trainees, students, faculty members, experts and researchers. MOU on Cooperation in the field of Sports & Youth Affairs Between the Government of the Republic of India and the Government of the State of Kuwait Jitendra Singh, MOS(IC) for Youth Affairs and Sports Anas Al-Saleh Minister of commerce and industry The MoU aims at promoting and strengthening bilateral cooperation between the two countries in the field of Sports & Youth through institutional exchanges particularly through exchange of youth and sports teams in various disciplines. Executive Programme for Cultural and Information Exchanges Between the Government of the Republic of India and the Government of the State of Kuwait for the Years 2013-16 Shri Ravindra Singh, Secretary (Culture) Khalid S. Al-jarallah, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs The Executive Programme aims at enhancing cultural cooperation between National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters of Kuwait and Indian Lalit Kala Akademi, between Rampur Raza Library, Rampur India and Dar Al-Athar Al- Islamiya Kuwait, exchange of TV and radio programmes for better understanding of the culture of each others countries, increased participation in training programmes and courses and symposia of mutual interest in the field of libraries and information, visit of experts and archaeologists, cooperation on management and conservation of cultural heritage sites. Educational Exchange Program Between the Government of India and the Government of the State of Kuwait on Cooperation in Education And Learning for the Years 2013-16 Ashok Thakur, Secretary Khalid S. Al-jarallah Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs The Executive Programme aims at strengthening bilateral cooperation in the field of education and learning by exchange of students, researchers in the field of education and learning, and academicians and specialists in the field of general education, adult education, special needs education, conducting research seminars in the fields of science and education, exchange of books, publications, audio-visual materials, microfiche and archives resources and other information to assist researchers in their fields of operations. http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 42 http://upscportal.com India & The World Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: //www.upscportal .com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civi lservi cesmentor. com/mag/subscri be INDIA & UKRAINE The fifth session of India- Ukrai ne Inter-Governmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological, Industrial and Cultural Cooperation held in New Delhi on 13 November 2013. The Commission was chaired by E. Ahamed, the Minister of State for External Affairs. The Ukrainian delegati on was l ed by Ihor Mykolayovych Prasolov, the Minister of Economic Development and Trade of Ukraine. He was accompanied by a 15 member official and 12 member business delegations from Ukraine. During the session current status and future prospects of cooperation in trade and investment, heavy/light industry, fertilizers, pharmaceuticals and healthcare, mining and metallurgy, science and technology, energy (coal, nuclear), transportation, agriculture and food processing, education, culture and tourism were reviewed. The Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, Government of India, and the State Administration of Ukraine on Medicinal Products signed the Memorandum of Understanding for Cooperation in Joint Ventures and Research and Development in Pharmaceuticals and Bio-pharmaceuticals. The Ukrai nian Busi ness Delegation held an interactive session with Indian business community organized by the Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FICCI). The Ukrainian side agreed to address the concerns of Indian pharmaceutical companies operating in Ukraine. Both sides also agreed to work on an agreement on simplification of visa procedures to ease movement of business people and tourists. The bulk of Indias exports of pharmaceuti cal s to Ukraine amount to about 375 million US dollars per annum. India and Ukraine also agreed to increase trade beyond the existing level of 3.2 billion US dollars. The fourth session was held in Kyiv in June 2012 and the sixth session of the Commission will take place in 2014 at Kyiv. INDIA AND CHINA Indian and Chinese army are set to hold their third joint military exercises after a gap of 5 years. During the exerci ses the Indian army contingent of 150 people reached the Chengdu city on 4 November 2013 to take part in the anti-terrorism drills. The 10 day drill code has been named hand i n hand was inaugurated in the Chengdu city on 5 November 2013. Earlier, the annual exercises began in 2007 and the first exercise was held in Kumming city of China, whereas the second round was held in India at Belgaum in Karnataka in 2008. Further, the next round of exercise was called off by India after the General who headed troops in Jammu and Kashmir was denied the visa on the grounds that the regi on part of di sputed territory. The contact between the two nations was resumed after China withdrew its decision and started issuing the regular visas to residents of Jammu and Kashmir. This step facilitated a broad engagement between the two giant neighbours. New Highway linking Medog to Zhamog China on 31 October 2013 opened a new highway that links Medog to Zhamog-located near the border with Arunachal Pradesh. The highway linking Medog, the last roadless county in China, with neighboring Bome county in Tibet formally opened to traffic, ending the countys isolation from the outside world. The 117-km highway, which cost 950 million yuan (155 million U.S. dollars), links Zhamog Township, the county seat of Bome, and Medog in Nyingchi Prefecture in southeastern Tibet. The road will be accessible for 8 to 9 months per year, barring major natural disasters. The Zhamog-Medog starts along the Number 318 National Road in Zhamog township in Bomi County. It goes through the 4400- meter high Galung La Mountain and cross 6 rivers, to reach Medog.The opening of the Medog road will greatly lower transportation costs and will also improve medical care and educational facilities. With this new highway, every county in Tibet is now linked through the highway network, underli ni ng the widening infrastructure gulf across the disputed border, even as India belatedly pushes forward an upgrading of border roads in more difficult terrain.China first started attempting to build the highway to Medog a landlocked county in Tibets Nyingchi prefecture in the 1960s, in the aftermath of the 1962 war with India. INDIA & PHILIPPINES Government of India on 14 November 2013 dispatched relief package that includes medicines, http://upscportal.com 43 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com India & The World Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: //www.upscportal .com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civi lservi cesmentor. com/mag/subscri be hygiene and chemicals, tentage, blankets, tarpaulins and ready to eat meal s to Hurri cane ravaged Philippines by an Indian Air Force C- 130J aircraft to Mactan. The relief package will helped the people of Philippines to meet the urgent needs at the time of trouble like life-saving medical care, food suppl ies and constructi on of temporary shelters in this hour of need. A similar aid was provided to Philippines by India in 2006. The Problem of Philippines Super Typhoon Hai yan of category-5 struck Philippines on 8 November 2013 and left behind more than 10000 people dead. It also affected about 4 million people. This was one of the most powerful typhoons to hit Philippines. It pushed winds up to 300 kilometers an hour. Visa Waiver Agreements with Poland, Slovenia and Lithuania approved by India The Union Cabi net on 7 November 2013 approved the visa waiver agreements with Poland, Slovenia and Lithuania. This move will help the Indians with diplomatic passports to visit the three countries. The agreements would be signed very soon. The CCEA (Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs) cleared a proposal to disinvest 17 percent of paid up capital for Follow on Public Offering (FPO) of the state owned power grid corporation of India. As per the Power Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, 13 percent of fresh equity by the Public Sector Company and 4 percent stake sale by the government includes under the FPO. A similar agreement was cleared with Cuba in first week of November 2013.By now India has similar agreements with about 50 countries that include Japan, Russia and Israel. INDIA & SLOVENIA Indias public broadcaster Prasar Bharati and Radio-Television of Slovenia (RTV-SLO) on 13 November 2013 signed an MoU to develop and strengthen mutual friendly relations through an increased cooperation in the fiel d of broadcasting. The agreement was signed by head of international department of RTV SLO, Suzana Vidas Karoli and Member Personnel of Prasar Bharati, VAM Hussain. The MoU allows to explore further opportunities in potential proj ects of producti on of programmes. It also entails exchange of programmes in the field of culture, education, entertainment, sports and news. Buy online at: http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/books KALINJAR PUBLICATIONS http://www.flipkart.com http://upscportal.com/civilservices/books http://upscportal.com 45 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com India & The World Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: //www.upscportal .com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civi lservi cesmentor. com/mag/subscri be E C O N O M Y Norms relaxed for participation of NBFCs in Insurance JVs Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on 28 November 2013 relaxed norms for parti ci pati on of Non-Banking Finance Companies (NBFCs) in the insurance joint ventures by allowing them to hold more than 50 percent in such companies. The notification of Reserve Bank of India has stated that - it has been decided that in cases where IRDA issues calls for capital infusion into the Insurance joint venture company, the RBI may, on a case to case basis, consider need based relaxation of the 50 percent group limit. The relaxation will be 2013 inaugurated the IT based Risk Management System (RMS) for the Customs clearance of export goods at New Delhi. Government has introduced RMS to enhance trade facilitation in export sector and to check smuggl i ng of drugs, weapons and other illegal substances harmful to the country. RMS will also enable the Excise and Customs Department to enhance the level of facilitation and speed up the process of cargo cl earance. The single window system of RMS wi l l contribute to reduce in dwell time, by achieving the desired objective of reducing the transaction cost in order to make the busi ness internationally competitive. The launch of RMS in exports covers 11 Customs stations at Bangalore, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Pune and Tutocorin. It would be extended to all EDI Customs stations by year end. Benefits are expected to accrue to the trade in terms of faster clearances and reduced transaction costs thereby enhancing the global competitiveness of our export goods. subject to compliance by the NBFC with all regulatory conditions. In the operation of Insurance Company, the IRDA often requires an insurance company to expand its capital taking into account the stipulations of the Insurance Act and the solvency requirements of the insurance company. The restriction of a group limit of the NBFC to 50 percent of the equity of the insurance joint venture company prescribed in the above mentioned circular may act as a constrai nt for the insurance company in meeting the requirement of IRDA. RMS for Trade Facilitation in Export Sector Introduced Union Fi nance Minister P. Chidambaram was on 13 November http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 46 http://upscportal.com Economy Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civi lservi cesmentor. com/mag/subscri be Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: //www.upscportal .com/civilservices/courses Medium Manufacturi ng Enterprises to be included under Priority Sector The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on 26 November 2013 allowed banks to treat loans given to medium manufacturing enterprises after 13 November 2013 as priority sector advance. RBI stated that the step has been taken to provide enhanced liquidity support to the medium and small enterprises. The RBI also allowed incremental bank loans to medi um servi ces enterprises extended after 13 November 2013 to up to 100 million rupees and raised the loan limit given to micro and small service enterprises to 100 million rupees from 50 million rupees that will be treated as priority sector advance. This facility will remain open till 31 March 2014. Under priority sector advance, most banks have to lend 40 percent of their loans to agri cul ture, mi cro and smal l enterprises, poor people for housing, students for education and other low income groups and weaker sectors. NIC got approval of 75 % Innovation Fund Corpus The Nati onal Innovati on Council (NInC) on 20 November 2013 got approval of 75 percent of the 500 crore rupees initial corpus of the upcoming India Innovation Fund (IIIF), which is an Indian model of i nnovati on. IIIF wil l have contri buti ons from Ministry of Finance, public sector banks (PSBs) and multilateral agencies and is being mobilized by NInC. The main obj ecti ve of IIIF i s to finance Enterprises focusing on the bottom of the pyramid that is, firms delivering goods and services to the poorest of the country. Multilateral agency, PSBs and financial institutions already gave commitment of 375 crore rupees and additional commitments to council, which mentioned in NInC annual Report of the People 2013. The launch date not yet decided though it is in its final stage of launching the fund. Mi ni mum 50 percent of advances from the fund would be to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the first close. The fund will not invest more than 15 percent of the corpus in any single company to ensure spread of investment. The fund intends to partner with public R&D programmes and laboratories to support the commercialization and deployment of socially relevant technologies and solutions. The fund would be registered with Securities and Exchange of India (SEBI). A pipeline of the potential investment prospects has been identified. A specialised core team is also expected to be in place before the first closure. It is expected that the fund would be operational by the beginning of 2014. The fund may increase eventual size of 5000 crore rupees in the long term. About National Innovation Council (NInC) The Nati onal Innovati on Council (NInC) was set up by the Prime Minister under chairmanship of Sam Pitroda, an adviser to PM on public information infrastructure and innovations (PIII). NInC will provide mutual ly rei nforci ng pol i cies, recommendations and methodologies to implement and boost innovation performance in the country. The task of the Nati onal Innovati on Counci l incl ude formulating Roadmap for innovation for 2010-2020 and creati ng framework for evolving an Indian model of innovation, with focus on i nclusi ve growth, encouraging central and state governments , universities and R&D institutions to innovate and to encourage the multi- displinary and globally competitive approaches for innovations and others. The Council will also promote the setting up of State and Sector Innovati on Counci l s to hel p implement strategies for innovation in Stated and Specified sectors. Provision for Higher Sugar Export announced The Union Government of India on 15 November 2013 announced the provision of higher sugar export with domestic production becoming surplus. The condition of export of sugar has been relaxed by doubling the limit of the overseas shipment that sellers can register. The export of sugar has been doubled to 50000 tonnes from 25000 tonnes per application for registration was announced by the Di rectorate General of Foreign Trade. The sugar production of India is projected at 25 million tonnes in 2013-14, which is two million tonnes more than the domestic demand. http://upscportal.com 47 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com Economy Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civi lservi cesmentor. com/mag/subscri be Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: //www.upscportal .com/civilservices/courses Third-party payment for Export and Import Transactions allowed The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on 8 November 2013 has allowed third party payment for the export and i mport transacti ons. The procedure relating to payments for exports or imports was liberalized taking into account the evolving international trade procedure. Banks are allowed to receive the payments for export of goods/software from the third party. The order of RBI also permits the banks to make payments to the third party for imports of goods. The third party refers to an entity other than the buyer or the seller. The procedure was liberalised taking into account the evolving international trade practices. However, banks woul d have t o f ol l ow cert ai n condi t i ons i n case of export transaction: Firm irrevocable order backed by a tripartite agreement should be in place Third party payment should come from a Financial Action Task Force (FATF) compliant country and through the banking channel only The exporter should declare the third party remittance in the Export Declaration Form; It would be responsibility of the Exporter to realize and repatriate the export proceeds from such third party named in the EDF Reporting of outstandings, if any, in the XOS would continue to be shown against the name of the exporter. However, instead of the name of the overseas buyer from where the proceeds have to be realised, the name of the declared third party should appear in the XOS In case of shipments being made to a country in Group II of Restricted Cover Countries, (e.g. Sudan, Somalia, etc.), payments for the same may be received from an Open Cover Country The banks have been allowed to make payments for import transacti ons to a thi rd part y f or i mport of goods, subject to conditions as under: Firm irrevocable purchase order / tripartite agreement should be in place Third party payment should be made to a Financial Action Task Force (FATF) compl i ant country and through the banking channel only The Invoice should contain a narration that the related payment has to be made to the (named) third party Bill of Entry should mention the name of the shipper as also the narration that the related payment has to be made to the (named) third party Importer should comply with the related extant instructions relating to imports including those on advance payment being made for import of goods The amount of an i mport transaction eligible for third party payment should not exceed USD 100,000. This limit will be revised as and when considered expedient Banks to Charge customers on actual usage of SMS alerts The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on 26 November 2013 directed the banks to charge customers for the transaction SMS alerts on the basis of usage, instead of imposing a fixed fee. The RBI in its notification issued to all banks has asked the banks to charge customers based on actual usage of SMS al erts, consi deri ng the technology available with banks to considering the technology available with banks and the telecom service providers. The notification has been done to ensure reasonableness and equity in the charges levied by banks for sending SMS alerts to customers. In its second quarter review of monetary policy 2013-14, the RBI had advised banks to charge for SMS alerts on usage basis. Earlier, the Reserve Bank of India had set the guidelines for banks to send online alerts to the customers for all types of transactions, irrespective of the amount in March 2011. Sale of 5 kg LPG cylinders extended to petrol pumps The Government of India on 4 November 2013 decided to extend the sale of the non-subsidized 5 kg cooking gas (LPG) cylinders at petrol pumps across the country. The proposal to extend the scope of the scheme was approved by M. Veerappa Moily, the Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas. Earlier, the scheme was in operation in Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai and Bengaluru. The scheme was launched on 5 October 2013 by Moily in Bangalore for sale in selected company owned and company operated petrol pumps in the four cities. The cylinders will be sold at market rates. The scheme will be delayed in poll bounding states like Del hi , Madhya Pradesh and http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 48 http://upscportal.com Economy Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civi lservi cesmentor. com/mag/subscri be Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: //www.upscportal .com/civilservices/courses Chhatti sgarh. The scheme has allowed to sale the 5 kg LPG cylinders with just proof of Identity through Petrol Stati ons to students, IT professional, BPO employees and people with odd duty timings. As per the decision, the sale of the cylinders would be done with or without regulator for the first time. The cylinders will be charged 1000 rupees and the regulator will be available at 250 rupees. Whereas, the cost of refills of the LPG will be as per to the non-domestic rates applicable in the market. A 5 kg is sold at about 340 to 350 rupees. Refinance window for the MSME extended to 5000 crore The Reserve Bank of India on 18 November 2013 opened a 5000 crore rupees refinance window for MSME sector, for a period of one year to ease the liquidity. The view of easing the liquidity stress to the Micro and Small Enterprises sector was taken by the RBI to provide refinance to the small Industrial Development Bank of India. Basically the Micro and Small Enterprises sector is empl oyment i ntensive and contributes significantly to exports. At present, the slowdown in the economy has resulted in the liquidity tightness i n the MSEs i n the manufacturing and services sector raising the need of liquidity support. The availability of the refinance facility will be till 13 November 2014. Women SHGs to get Banks loans at 7 percent The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on 19 November 2013 directed Publ ic Sector Banks (PSBs) to provide loans to women self-help groups (SHGs) at 7 per cent per annum to avail the benefit of interest rate subvention scheme under the Swarnajayanti Gram Swarozgar Yojana-Aajeevika (SGSY) scheme. Salient features of RBI Noti fication 1. Al l women SHGs wi l l be eligible for interest subvention to avail the credit upto 3 lakh Rupees at 7 per cent per annum. 2. PSBs will be subvented to the extent of difference between the Weighted Average Interest charged and 7 per cent subject to the maximum limit of 5.5 per cent, for the FY-2014. 3. Thi s subventi on wi l l be available to all the PSBs on the condition that they make SHG credit available at 7 per cent in the 150 districts. 4. The Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) will be subvented to the extent of difference between the lending rates and 7 per cent for the FY-2014 on the condi tion they make SHG credit available at 7 per cent. 5. SHGs wi l l be gi ven an addi ti onal 3 per cent subventi on on prompt repayment of loan. Swarnaj ayant i Gram Swarozgar Yoj ana- Aaj eevi ka (SGSY) is an initiative by the government to provide sustainable income to poor people living in rural areas of the country. About Interest Rate subvention concept Interest Rate subvention is a subsi dy of i nterest given by Government to certain sectors like Textiles, Agriculture etc. For eg. Textile Company borrows from Bank at 10 percent and Government gives subvention of 2 percent. Hence net bank takes interest from textiles companies 8 percent. Other sectors have to pay 10 percent to the bank. Foreign banks subsidiaries permitted to acquire domestic PSBs The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on 6 November 2013 permitted the Wholly Owned Subsidiaries (WOS) of the foreign banks to acquire the domestic private sector banks. RBI also permitted the banks to set up branches anywhere in the country. As per the permission given by RBI, the foreign banks will have to seek permission of RBI to open branches in certain sensitive locations. The foreign bank subsidiaries have also been allowed to list on the local stock exchanges. Although, they will not be allowed to hold more than 74 percent in the private banks they may acquire. The order of the RBI also stated that the foreign banks that commenced banking business in India before August 2010 will be given an opportunity to convert into a wholly owned subsidiary. Key features of the Framework Banks with complex structures, also the banks which do not provide adequate disclosure in their home jurisdiction, as well as the banks which are not widely held and banks from jurisdictions having legislation giving a preferential claim to depositors of home country in a winding up proceedings, would be mandated entry into India only in the WOS mode. http://upscportal.com 49 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com Economy Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civi lservi cesmentor. com/mag/subscri be Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: //www.upscportal .com/civilservices/courses Foreign banks in whose case the above conditions do not apply can opt for a branch or WOS form of presence. A foreign bank opting for branch form of presence shall convert into a WOS as and when the above conditions become applicable to it or it becomes systemi cal l y important on account of its balance sheet size in India. Forei gn banks, whi ch commenced banking business in India before August 2010 shal l have the opti on to conti nue thei r banki ng business through the branch mode. However, they will be incentivised to convert into WOS because of the attractiveness of the near national treatment afforded to WOS. To prevent domination by foreign banks, restrictions would be placed on further entry of new WOSs of foreign banks/ capital infusion, when the capital and reserves of the WOSs and forei gn bank branches in India exceed 20 per cent of the capital and reserves of the banking system. The initial minimum paid-up voting equity capital for a WOS shall be 5 billion for new entrants. Existing branches of foreign banks desi ring to convert into WOS shall have a minimum net worth of 5 billion. The parent of the WOS would be required to issue a letter of comfort to the RBI for meeting the liabilities of the WOS. Corporate Governance (i) Not less than two-third of the di rectors shoul d be non- executive directors; (ii) A minimum of one-third of the di rectors shoul d be i ndependent of the management of the subsidiary in India, its parent or associates (iii) Not less than fifty percent of the directors should be Indian nationals /NRIs/PIOs subject to the condition that not less than 1/3rd of the directors are Indian nationals resident in India The branch expansion guidelines as applicable to domestic scheduled commercial banks would generally be applicable to WOSs of foreign banks except that they wi ll require prior approval of RBI for opening branches at certain locations that are sensitive from the perspective of national security. Priority Sector lending requirement would be 40 per cent for WOS like domesti c schedul ed commercial banks with adequate transi ti on period for existing foreign bank branches converting into WOS. On arms length basis, WOS woul d be permitted to use parental guarantee/ credit rating only for the purpose of provi di ng custodi al services and for their international operations. However, WOS should not provi de counter guarantee to its parent for such support. WOSs may, at thei r option, dilute their stake to 74 per cent or less in accordance wi th the existing FDI policy. In the event of dilution, they will have to list themselves. Defini tion of Infrastructure lending Sub Category wi dened Reserve Bank of India on 25 November 2013 wi dened the definition of infrastructure lending sub category in a bid to expedite Projects. In a notification issued by RBI, it has stated that new sub-sectors that have been added in the list will include hotels with project cost of more than 200 crore rupees bring built anywhere in India and of any star rating. The list will also include convention centres with project cost of more than 300 crore rupees. RBI also stated that the new sub-sectors will get classified as infrastructure for the purpose of lending by banks and select All India Term-Lending and Refinancing Institutions. Various sub-sectors under the categories such as Transport, Energy,Water & Sanitation, Communication, Social and Commercial Infrastructure come under infrastructure lending. Hotel and convention centre come under Soci al and Commerci al Infrastructure category for this kind of lending. Bharatiya Mahila Bank l aunched Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and UPA Chairperson, Sonia Gandhi Jointly inaugurated Indias first all-women bank, Bharati ya Mahi l a Bank in Mumbai on 19 November 2013,marking the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. The main objectives of the bank will be to focus on the http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 50 http://upscportal.com Economy Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civi lservi cesmentor. com/mag/subscri be Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: //www.upscportal .com/civilservices/courses banking needs of women and to promote thei r economi c empowerment. The bank wi l l commence operations with an initial capi tal of one thousand crore rupees. The Union Government on 12 November 2013 appointed Usha Ananthasubramanian as the first chairperson and managing director of public sector Bharatiya Mahila Bank (BMB). About Bharatiya Mahila Bank 1. The Mahila bank aims to service women and women-run businesses, support womens self-help groups and their l i vel i hoods and promote further financial inclusion. 2. An only-for-women bank first time in India. 3. Bhartiya Mahila Bank will be a universal bank and will provide every banking service and facility that is provided by comparable Public and Private sector banks. It will establish branches all over the country and, i n due course, some branches in abroad. 4. The Union Cabinet cleared the proposal for setting up of all- women bank on August 2013. 5. The Reserve Bank of India gave its in-principal approval for the Bharatiya Mahila Bank in June 2013 and the banking company was set up. 6. The Uni on government approved 1000 crore Rupees seed capital for the women- focused public sector bank, announced by Union finance minister P. Chidambaram in his 2013-14 budget speech. Continuati on of Agriculture Export Plan of APEDA approved The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) on 25 November 2013 approved the continuation of the Agriculture Export Promotion Plan Scheme of the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) during 12th Plan Period (2012-13 to 2016-17). It was a proposal of the Mi nistry of Commerce and Industry for APEDA with four components namel y infrastructure development, transport assistance, market development and quality development. The CCEA meeting was chaired by Prime Minister of India, Manmohan Singh. The outlay of the scheme will be 1100 crore rupees during the 12th Plan period. The investments on the components are (Rupees in crore): Component 2012-13* 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 Total Infrastructure Development 43.35 62.00 62.00 65.00 66.65 299.00 Transport Assistance 72.99 116.00 125.00 130.00 66.65 600.00 Market Development 26.98 29.00 31.00 34.00 30.02 151.00 Quality Development 6.68 9.00 10.00 11.00 13.32 50.00 Total 150.00 216.00 228.00 240.00 266.00 1100.00 The Integrated Finance Division approved the expenditure incurred in the 1st year of the 12 plan period. The scheme will enhance the capabilities of the Indian exporters of agro products and support them in realizing their export potential. The components will help to catalyze the efforts of the exporting community because of the interventions by APEDA at different stages of supply chain. Buy online at: http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/books Logical Reasoning & Analytical Reasoning MCQ Series KALINJAR PUBLICATIONS http://upscportal.com 53 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com Science & Technology Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: //www.upscportal .com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civi lservi cesmentor. com/mag/subscri be S C I E N C E
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T E C H N O L O G Y KINECT Developed by Mi crosoft US software company Microsoft recently developed a new cost- effective sign language translator that converts signs into spoken and written language - and vice versa. In collaboration with researchers in China, Microsoft created the Kinect Si gn Language Transl at or, a prototype system that understands the gestures of sign language and converts them to spoken and written l anguageand vice versa. The translator uses a computer and a Ki nect camera that recognises signing gestures, then gives a spoken and written translation of languages for people who can hear. The system captures a conversation both sides: the deaf person is shown signing, with a written and spoken translation being read a users body position and movements and, with the help of a computer, translate them i nto commands. The project was collaboration between the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing Union University, and Microsoft Research Asia. rendered in real-time, while the system takes the hearing persons spoken words and turns them into accurate, understandable signs. The system takes a persons spoken words and translate them into accurate signs carried out by an on- screen avatar. The Kinects sensors In Mars Findings Mangalyaan & Maven will Complement Each Other ISRO and NASA will coordinate functions of their Mars Orbiters- Mangalyaan and MAVEN once both get into orbit of the Mars planet in September 2014. This was announced by ISRO scientists. ISRO scientists http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 54 http://upscportal.com Science & Technology Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: //www.upscportal .com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civi lservi cesmentor. com/mag/subscri be also stated that the findings of ISRO Mars Orbiter mission and NASAs Maven would complement each other. NASAs Mars-bound spacecraft, the Mars Atmosphere and Volatile EvolutionN (MAVEN) was launched aboard a United Launch Alliance Atlas V 401 rocket from Cape Canaveral in Florida, US on 18 November 2013. MAVEN is the second mission for NASAs Mars Scout Program and is likely to obtain critical measurements of the Martian upper atmosphere to help understand the climate change over the red planet- Mars history. MAVEN carries eight instruments Neutral Gas and Ion Mass Spectrometer, Imaging Ultraviolet Spectrograph, Magnetometer, Solar Wi nd Electron Anal yzer, SupraThermal And Thermal Ion Composition, Langmuir Probe and Waves antenna, Solar Energetic Particles and Solar Wind Ion Analyzer. After having successfully completed five orbit raising manoeuvres on its Mars Orbiter, ISRO is expected to perform the crucial event of trans Martian injection of the spacecraft in the early hours of 1 December 2013. The spacecraft will reach the red planets orbit by 24 September 2014 after an over 10 month voyage. ISROs PSLV-C25 successfully injected 1350-kg Mangalyaan Orbiter (Mars craft) into orbit around Earth some 44 minutes after launch at 2.38 PM from Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota on 5 November 2013 marking the successful completion of the first stage of the 450 crore Rupees mission. IICT Recei ved Samples from OPCW The Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (IICT), Hyderabad, recently received over 50 samples for detection of chemical weapons from the Organisation for Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW). The samples in the form of soil, water and organic solvents were sent twice a year since 2008 when IICT attained the status of designated laboratory for off-site analysis of weapons. OPCW had been sending to IICT for analysis only blank samples collected from different parts of the world. Six samples which were coded to hide the identity of the substance and the originating country were sent by courier every six months as part of continuous evaluation of the lab. The report of the institute should be cent per cent accurate to be eligible to get three A grades in succession and pass the proficiency test every year. The institute has already got the proficiency certificate for this year (2013), but it was yet to enter into a technical agreement with OPCW to get authentic on-site samples.It had the technique to identify chemicals at parts per million (PPM) levels. A dedicated centre for analysis of chemical toxins was set up at the institute to attend to OPCW. The IICT was one of the 21 labs i n 17 countries that were designated by OPCW for off-site analysis of chemical weapons. Apart from IICT, the Defence Research and Devel opment Establishment (DRDE), Gwalior, under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is also one of the designated laboratories of the OPCW. A desi gnated l aboratory has to participate every year in the OPCW proficiency test and consistently attain the A grade benchmark to retain its status. From 2008, IICT has retained its status though it has been associated with OPCW since 1998. The Organi sat i on f or t he Prohi bi t i on of Chemi cal Weapons (OPCW) on 11 October 2013 won the Nobel Peace Prize for the year 2013 for its extensive efforts to el imi nate chemical weapons. About Indian Institute of Chemi cal Technology (IICT) Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, (established in 1989) is a national-level research center located in Hyderabad, India under the Council of Scientifi c and Industri al Research (CSIR), Government of India. IICT conducts research in basic and appli ed chemi stry, bi ochemi stry, bioinformatics, chemical engineering and provi des sci ence and technology inputs to the industrial and economic devel opment of the country. Biosimilar Trastuzumab got Approval of DCGI Indi an Bi otech Company Biocon on 26 November 2013 announced that it had received market authorisation from the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) for its Breast cancer Drug- biosimilar Trast uzumab. The bi osi mil ar trastuzumab will be marketed in India under the brand name of CANMAb by the company, and is expected to be available to Indian patients in the fourth quarter of FY14. The drug is jointly developed by Biocon along with US-based pharma company Mylan. Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in India, with over 100000 new patients being diagnosed with this disease every year. The cost of http://upscportal.com 55 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com Science & Technology Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: //www.upscportal .com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civi lservi cesmentor. com/mag/subscri be biologics in cancer treatment is high, which makes access unaffordable to a large number of patients. Biosimilar Trastuzumab will offer an alternative affordable option thereby enhancing access to treatment for cancer patients in India and the world over. Biosimilar Trastuzumab drug is used for the treatment of Her 2+ metastatic breast cancer.The Bi osi mi lar Trastuzumab marketed in the brand name of CANMab. CANMab is the first biological equivalent of Herceptin, a breast cancer drug manufactured by Swiss company, Roche. New View of Saturn and Earth provided by Cassini Spacecraft NASA in November 2013 released a natural-color image of Saturn from space, the first in which Saturn, its moons and rings, and Earth, Venus and Mars, all are visible. The panoramic mosaic of the majestic Saturn system was taken by Cassini Spacecraft of the NASA. It shows the view that can be seen by the human eyes. It was unveiled at the Newseum in Washington on 12 November 2013. To create the panorama, the image team of Cassini processed 141 wi de-angle images. The image sweeps 404880 miles across Saturn and its inner ring system, which includes Saturn rings out to the E ring, the second outermost ring of Saturn. On July 19, people for the first time had advance notice a spacecraft taking the picture from planetary distance during the Cassinis Wave at Saturn campai gn. Duri ng the campaign, NASA invited public to celebrate by finding Saturn in their part of the sky, waving at the ringed planet and sharing pictures over the internet. An annotated version of the Saturn system mosaic labels points of interest. Earth is a bright blue dot to the lower right of Saturn. Venus is a bright dot to Saturns upper left. Mars also appears, as a faint red dot, above and to the left of Venus. Seven Saturnian moons are visible, including Enceladus on the left side of the image. Zooming into the image reveals the moon and the icy plume emanating from its south pole, supplying fine, powder-sized icy particles that make up the E ring. The E ring shines like a halo around Saturn and the inner rings, because it is tenuous and can be seen with the light shine from behind it. About the Cassini Spacecraft Cassi ni Spacecraft was launched in 1997 and explored the Saturn system for more than nine years. NASA has planned to continue the mission through 2017 with the anticipation of many more images of Saturn, its rings and moons, along with scientific data. The Cassini-Huygens mission is a cooperative project of NASA, the European Space Agency and Italian Space Agency. JPL, a division of the California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, manage the mission for NASAs Science Mission Directorate in Washington. JPL desi gned, devel oped and assembled the Cassini orbiter and its two onboard cameras. The imaging team is based at the Space Science Institute, Boulder, Colo. Orbit Raising Manoeuvre Performed by ISRO The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on 16 November 2013 performed the last of the five orbit-raising manoeuvre on its Mars Orbiter, raising the apogee (farthest point from Earth) of the spacecraft to over 1.92 lakh km. In the series of five orbit raising manoeuvre with a supplementary operation after the fourth one, the space agency had raised the apogee of the spacecraft to over 1.92 lakh km. After the successful completion of these operations, the Mars Orbiter mission is expected to take on the crucial event of the trans-Mars injection around 12.42am on 1st December 2013. It will reach the orbit of the red planet by 24th September, 2014 after taking on a voyage of over 10 months. ISROs PSLV C 25 on 5 November 2013 successful l y i nj ected the 1350-kg Mangalyaan Orbiter (Mars craft) into the orbit around the earth, from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota, Andhra Pra desh. Germany Tested Worlds First Green Heli copter Germanys aviation company e- Vol o on 17 November 2013 successfull y tested the first helicopter which is noiseless and emission-free named- Volocopter. The Volocopter is an environmentally friendly and emission-free private helicopter. About the Green Heli copter The hel i copter, named http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 56 http://upscportal.com Science & Technology Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: //www.upscportal .com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civi lservi cesmentor. com/mag/subscri be Volocopter, devel oped by the German company e-volo, two seat prototype made it earlier voage in kalsruhe, Germany. The volocopter uses eighteen electrically driven rotos propel instead of one combustion engine which is environmentally friendly and emission-free. The emission free Volocopter is a vertical take-off and landing manned aircraft, with rich features and i ncredibl y qui et sound, absolutely no noticeable vibrations, new spring strut landing gear and extremely calm rotor plane that replace conventional aircraft . Survival of small farms crucial for food security For the last 25 years, Deccan Developmental Society (DDS) in Medak District, Andhra Pradesh has been working in more than 70-odd villages along with 5,000 dalit women farmers. More than 60 per cent of their livelihood is derived from small holdings. In fact there must be more than 300 million small and marginal farmers in this country. And everyone who analyses Indian agriculture and farmers clearly says that the survival of these small farmers is crucial to the nations food security and well being, says Mr. P.V. Sateesh, Director, DDS. Food analyst Some of the most respected food analysts in the world such as Miguel Altieri, after a decade of study have categorically concluded that small farms are the most efficient food producers. Hence the criticality of small farmers for agricultural future today stands undisputed. Most of these farmers were either landless or marginal farmers two decades ago. But with support from DDS they got into active agriculture. All of them are ecological farmers and producers of food crops. Through thei r magni fi cent efforts they have become owners of lands between 5- 20 acres though all these lands are non irrigated dry lands, says Mr. Sateesh. milch animal, a couple of goats and a few chickens. Governments role The government must ensure that all farmers like them must own these animals that generate additional cash to support the needs of their chil dren as they grow and get educated, adds Mr. Sateesh. Increasing cost of cultivation is a major worry for these women. Weeding wages have gone through the roof. What used to be about Rs.100 per person just two years ago, has gone upto Rs. 250 now. And even then we find it hard to find labourers, says Susilamma. She thinks the 100 days rural empl oyment scheme (MNREGA) has caused this situation. Everyone seems to echo this feeling. Though all of them also are benefited by it since they all go for wage work in other peoples lands, they still think that the scheme has dented their own agriculture. To make MNREGA small farmer friendly, they suggest agricultural activities be included in it. Weeding, ploughing (incidentally ploughing costs have gone up by four times in last five years, they point out) and harvesting costs can be borne under the scheme. If this is done, surely their agriculture will not be under any threat, asserts Susi l amma. Another farmer, Cheelamamidi Laxmamma, in her late 30s has nurtured her three acre dryland farm with great love and care for decades. Weedi ng cost During monsoon, weeding must be done quickly in two or three days. Depending on the soil type, 20 to 40 persons are needed. Current rates are around Rs.200-250 per person. Therefore it costs between Rs. 4,000 and 6,000 per acre. The total income from one acre might be around Rs.8, 000. Under these circumstances how can the weeding wages be met? she asks. Agriculture Take the case of Rayapalli Susilamma, a 40 year old woman farmer who owns three acres of rainfed farm of which half an acre is mango plantation, one acre not cultivable, grows an amazing variety of food crops. She is proud that she does not have to buy food grains. She goes to the market for buying only cooking oil, coconut oil, soap and soap powder. Along with Susilamma are five others, all of whom share the same socio economic and agricultural profile. They all want to own about five acres of farm, a pair of bullocks, one http://upscportal.com 57 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com Science & Technology Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: //www.upscportal .com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civi lservi cesmentor. com/mag/subscri be officials thi nk that weedi ng is something that a small farmer can do on their own. They treat this argument with heavy contempt. In drylands, particularly on red soils weeding during Kharif must be finished within two or three days. If you prolong it, it becomes unproductive, according to her. An acre needs a minimum of 25 persons. If the farmer does this on her own, it takes 25 days for her to finish the j ob. Weeds become unmanageable over this gap of time. Local money lenders Most of these women borrow from local moneylenders at three per cent interest to complete weeding. Add to this the fact that crops like millets and other food crops need more weeding compared to cash crops. Therefore the government must offer 100 per cent subsidy for agricultural activity on millet lands and 50 per cent for cash crops by including these activities under MNREGA scheme. Need encouragement According to Mr. Sateesh, this is the only area where these proud women farmers in spite of their small holdings and difficult farming need help and encouragement from the Government. ATV-4 accomplished its Mission The heaviest-ever cargo-carrier of Europe to the International Space Station burned up in the Earths Atmosphere i n the control led manoeuvre after a five month mission on 2 November 2013. When the cargo was burnt, it carried about six tonnes of garbage and waste produced on the board of the ISS. The Automated Transfer Vehicle (ATV) was burnt over the uninhabited zone of the southern Pacific Ocean. The ATV-4 set the record for the heaviest Ariane 5 launch and its mission started on 5 June 2013 from Europes Spaceport in French Guiana. The record cargo of 2480 kg included more than 1400 individual items. Albert Einstein performed a series of delicate manoeuvres to reenter below the Station in order for the astronauts to observe the spacecrafts fragmentation in the upper atmosphere, providi ng uni que information on reentry physics. Automated Transfer Vehicl es (ATVs) Automated Transfer Vehicles (ATVs) are the most complex space vehicles ever developed in Europe and are the largest and most capable resupply ships to dock with the Space Station. European Space Agency (ESA) The European Space Agency (ESA) is Europes gateway to space and its mission is to shape the development the space capability of Europe ensuring that the investments done in the space can deliver benefits to the people of Europe and the world. ESA is an international organisation with 20 Member States. By coordinating the financial and intellectual resources of its members, it can undertake programmes and activities far beyond the scope of any single European country. Study says that Oceans acidifying at Unprecedented Rate A report released in second week of November 2013 claimed that the worlds oceans are becoming more acidic at an unprecedented rate. The oceans of the world are becoming hot, sour and breathless due to the impact of the greenhouse gases. As per the new report from scientists, the way those changes work together is creating a very serious outlook for global water. The scientists from the International Biosphere Geosphere Programme said http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 58 http://upscportal.com Science & Technology Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: //www.upscportal .com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civi lservi cesmentor. com/mag/subscri be that the human emissions of Carbon Dioxide are the matter to be blamed. The human activities add 24 million tonnes of Carbon Dioxide to the Worlds ocean every day. These emissions will have a profound effect on the chemistry of sea water. The increasing acidity of the oceans is maki ng the l i fe of the mari ne organisms hard. The acidity is happening in the polar oceans at a higher speed, where the cold water holds the larger amount of CO2. The researchers and scientists claim that by the end of this century the acid effect would be global and scientists warn, at least 30 per cent of ocean species will be unable to survive. The acidification of the ocean has increased at an unprecedented rate in the past 300 million years. The scientists have calculated that the world oceans have became 26 percent more acidic since 1880 due to the increase of carbon in the water. ISROs Mars orbiter sent first pictures of earth The Mars Orbiter Mission also known as Mangalyaan has beamed back the first set of pictures of Earth on 21 November 2013 that was captured by Mars Color Camera fitted on Mars Orbiter spacecraft. The picture of earth has captured the Indian subcontinent and parts of Africa. The camera has also captured the cyclonic storm Helen that is heading towards Andhra Pradesh coast. The Picture was taken on 19 November 2013 from an altitude of 67975 km with a resolution of 3.53 km. This is the first time after launch that an instrument on board has been checked for its operation. Earlier, ISRO had performed all five orbit raising manoeuvres planned on the Mars Orbiter and raised the apogee of the spacecraft to over 1.92 lakh km. RH 200 launch spotlights TERLS humble begi nni ng Rohini (RH) 200 took to the sky at 6.25 p.m. on Thursday from the Thumba Equatorial Rocket Launching Station (TERLS) to mark the golden jubilee of the first successful launch of a sounding rocket from Indian soil, the beginning of Indias big leap forward in space exploration. It was on this day in 1963, a small American- built rocket named Nike Apache was fired at 6.25 p.m. from Thumba, a fishing hamlet near here, which was chosen by Vikram Sarabhai and his team of scientists for its proximity to the earths magnetic equator. Since then, the TERLS has grown rapidly. RH 200, built indigenously, which carried copper chaff as payload, was the 2,328th test flight. RH 200 was a two-stage spinning and fin-stabilised vehicle, with 200 mm in diameter and 3,875 mm in length, weighing 114 kg. These types of rockets are extensively used for meteorological studies and the chaff they release is tracked with the help of radars for processing wind data. A low-key affair The day being a momentous occasion we wanted to make it a major event. However, we had to keep it a low-key affair as the top scientific community of the Indian Space Research Organisation is busy with the Mars orbiter probe and the scheduled launch of the GSLV. We would organise a major event to felicitate the top scientists, including A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, who worked for the first launch from here, TERLS Deputy General Manager Koshy Mammen told The Hindu. Corrections & Clarifications The fourth paragraph of RH 200 launch spotlights TERLS humble beginning (Nov. 22, 2013) talked about rockets used for metrological studi es. It shoul d have been meteorological studies. Buy online at: http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/books Logical Reasoning & Analytical Reasoning MCQ Series KALINJAR PUBLICATIONS http://upscportal.com 61 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com Science & Technology Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: //www.upscportal .com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civi lservi cesmentor. com/mag/subscri be S P O R T S Thank You Sachin campaign by BCCI The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on 6 November 2013 l aunched Thank you Sachi n campaign on soci al networking site Twi t ter. This Campaign will allow fans worldwide to connect and say thank you to Sachin Tendulkar on his retirement. The campaign offers fans across India receive a Tweet from BCCI with a momentous pi cture of Sachi n, including a personalised message and signature in his handwriting. Sachin Tendulkar on 10 October 2013 announced his decision to retire from Test cricket after playing his landmark 200th Test match against the West Indies in November 2013. India - West Indies ODI series India has won the three one day series against West Indies by 2-1 on 27 November 2013. This was the sixth ODI title win in a row for India after it defeated West Indies by 5 wickets in the third and final match of the series at Kanpur. After India lost a series in December 2012 against Pakistan, it has played six more series and had consecutively won all the series. The six ODI series were: England tour to India to play 5 matches ODI - India won this series by 3-2 ICC Champions Trophy which was played in England India defeated the host England in the final CRICKET and the world a rare opportunity to receive a personalised picture of Sachin Tendulakar.The Board of Control for Cricket in India launched this campaign in collaboration with Twitter and Digigraph. During the Test series between India and the West Indies(6 to 18 November 2013), al l Twitter users who send an appreciative message for Sachin to the BCCI handle with the ThankYouSachin will instantaneously http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 62 http://upscportal.com Sports Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: //www.upscportal .com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civi lservi cesmentor. com/mag/subscri be A triangular series with Sri Lanka and West Indies India won the final match against Sri Lanka India tour to Zimbabwe India won the series 5-0. Virat Kohli captained the Indian side Seven ODI seri es duri ng Australia tour to India - India defeated Australia 3-2. Two matches of the series were washed away West Indies tour to India to play three matches ODI India defeated West Indies 2-1 India Australia ODI series India won the series 3-2 against Australia on 2 November 2013 by beating Australia in the seventh match by 57 runs at Bangalore. In the seventh One Day International (ODI) match India scored Score 383/6 in 50 over and Australia scored 326 in 45.1 over. In the seventh ODI, Rohit Sharma scored 209 in 158 balls and became the third players to score more than 200 runs. Rohit hit 16 sixes, while scoring the 209. The rest of two scorers are Indian cricketers namely Sachin Tendulkar (who scored 200 runs in 147 balls) and Virender Sehwag (who scored 219 in 140 balls). While chasing, Faulkner of Australia broke the Australian record of fastest century in an ODI in 57 balls. Glenn Maxwell also equaled the Australian record of fastest fifty in 17 balls, while scoring 60 runs in 22 balls. In the seven ODI series two successive matches were washed out at Ranchi and Cuttak. India was successful to equal the level in series 2-2 at Nagpur, during the sixth match. Man of the Series: Rohit Sharma Rohit Sharma Scores a Double Hundred in ODI Rohi t Sharma, the Indian batsman on 2 November 2013 became the third cricketer in the worl d t o score a doubl e 2010. The second one to do so was Virendra Sehwag who scored 219 against West Indies in the year 2011 and the third one is Rohit Sharma to score 209 runs against Australia in 2013. Yet another record was that of the partnership between Rohit Sharma and Indian cricket team captain MS Dhoni, who collectively added 167 runs for the fifth wicket, a record against Australia. It is also important to note that Indias score of 383 for six is the highest ever total against Australia. Records broken by Rohit Sharma The highest scorer against Australia Highest number of sixes in the ODI innings Second highest ODI score (209) after Virendra Sehwag (219) Fastest Batsman to Score 5000 Runs in ODIs Indian Cricketer Virat Kohli became the fastest batsman to score 5000 runs in one-day internationals when he scored 86 against the West Indies in the first ODI in Kochi on 21 November 2013. Vi rat Kohl i achieved the feat in just 120 matches and 114 innings. He has so far scored 5005 runs, whi ch included 17 hundred in an ODI match. He scored 209 runs of f 158 balls against Australia in seventh and fi nal ODI (One-Day International) match at Bangalores M.Chinnaswamy Stadium. His runs included 12 fours and 16 sixes, which also means that he re-wrote the record of highest number of sixes in an ODI match. He out-beat Shane Watsons record of 15 sixes in the ODI which he hit in the match against Bangladesh. It is worth noticing that all the three batsmen who scored double hundred in one day mat ch are I ndi ans. The milestone was at first achieved by Sachin Tendulkar who scored 200 runs against South Africa in the year http://upscportal.com 63 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com Sports Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: //www.upscportal .com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civi lservi cesmentor. com/mag/subscri be centuries and 27 fifties in his short career. In terms of innings, Virat Kohli has equalled the record of Sir Viv Richards of West Indies, who also achieved the feat in 114 innings way back in 1987 but it was Vivs 126th match. Before Kohli, former captain Sourav Ganguly was the fastest to achi eve the feat among Indian batsmen in 131 matches and 126 i nni ngs. From India, ski pper Mahendra Singh Dhoni (135 innings), Gautam Gambhir (135 innings) and Sachin Tendulkar (138 innings) are the next fastest batsmen to reach the 5000 runs in ODIs. Bat sm an O pp os it ion Mat ch Da te M atches Inn ings Virat Kohli (India) West Indies 21 Nov 2013 120 114 Viv Richards (WI) England 30 Jan 1987 126 114 Brian Lara (WI) South Africa 3 Nov 1997 120 118 Gordon Greenidge (WI) Pakistan 13 Nov 1990 122 121 AB de Villiers (SA) England 28 Aug 2012 129 124 Sourav Ganguly (India) Pakistan 25 Jan 2000 131 126 ICC Twenty20 World Cup 2014 Qual ifier Nepal and the UAE on 27 November 2013 qualified for the ICC T20 World cup which will be held in Bangladesh in 2014. Nepal defeated Hong Kong by five wickets in Abu Dhabi on 27 November 2013. Nepal survived a last-over scare to score the required 13 runs, with 10 runs coming from the first two deliveries and a last- ball misfield producing the winning runs. The UAE has also qualified for the tournament as they defeated the Netherlands by 10 runs. This will be the first time since the ICC Cricket World Cup 1996 that the UAE and Nepal will make an appearance on the global stage. Four teams have now qual i fi ed for the ICC T20 i n Bangladesh next year. These include Afghanistan, Ireland, Nepal and UAE. The 2014 ICC World Twenty20 to be held in Bangladesh from 16 March 2014 to 6 April 2014 and a total of 16 teams are participating in this tournament. Ireland and Afghanistan on 24 November 2013 qualified for ICC Twenty20 World Cup 2014 after winning their respective matches in the qualifiers at Dubai. Ireland defeated Hongkong by 85 runs while Afghanistan beat Kenya by 34 runs to qualify as the top teams from the two groups. Four places for the tournament are yet to be decided. The remaining four teams will be decided after a series of matches i n Dubai and Abu Dhabi . The contestants include Nepal, UAE, Hongkong, Nami bia, Scotland, Netherlands, Italy and Papua New Guinea. The 2014 ICC Worl d Twenty20 to be held in Bangladesh from 16 March 2014 to 6 April 2014 and a total of 16 teams are participating in this tournament. Afghani stan Cri cket team also qualified for its maiden ICC World Cup after defeating Kenya by seven wickets at World Cricket League Champi onship in Sharjah on 4 October 2013. ICC test Ranking In the latest ICC test ranking, India moved to the second position, following the 2-0 victory over West Indies on 16 November 2013. South Africa stood at the top position with 131 points, which is followed by India with 119 ratings point. England stands at third position with 116 points. India in the two match test series made a clean sweep of West Indies. India defeated the West Indies in the second match with an innings and 126 runs in Mumbai. The second match of the series was also the last match of Sachin Tendulkar, as he hung his bat and gave an end to his 24 years long cricketing career. After India won the match, the Government of India chose Sachin for the highest civilian award, Bharat Ratan on 16 November 2013. Test rankings of other nations: Rank Team Matches Points Rating 1 South Africa 27 3531 131 2 India 33 3920 119 3 England 38 4407 116 4 Pakistan 25 2538 102 5 Australia 33 3318 101 6 West Indies 25 2366 95 7 Sri Lanka 26 2295 88 8 New Zealand 30 2243 75 9 Zimbabwe 11 372 34 10 Bangladesh 16 285 18 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 64 http://upscportal.com Sports Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: //www.upscportal .com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civi lservi cesmentor. com/mag/subscri be Virat Kohli became Number 1 ranked ODI Batsman Virat Kohli on 3 November 2013 became the number 1 batsman in one day International cricket rankings after scoring 344 runs in the series against Australia, that India won by 3-2. In the series Kohli scored 61 in Pune, 100 in Naipur, 68 in Mohali, 115 in Nagpur and 0 in Bengaluru at an average of 114.66. The 344 runs in the series gave 38 rating points to him, which helped him to jump three points to top in the ICC ranking tables. He achieved the top position on the ODI rankings for the first time. He also became the third Indian to hold number 1 position after Sachin Tendulkar in 1996 and MS Dhoni in 2006. Tendulkar claimed the number 1 position for the first time from Brain Lara in February 1996 and for the last time he achieved the position in March 2008. Dhoni reached the number 1 position for the first time from Ricky Pointing in April 2006 and for the last time in July 2010. In the latest list released by the ICC, the other players who changed their rankings were George Bailey, Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma. The captain of Australia during the series against India skipped six places and claimed third position in rankings released. This was the first time for Bailey in the career to achieve the third position. Shikhar Dhawan broke into the top 20 list for the first time by jumping 12 places to stand at 11th ranking in the list. Rohit Sharma achi eved 15th positi on i n the rankings list after scoring 491 runs at an average of 122.75, which includes the score of 209 runs in the final. Rohit Sharma became the fifth batsman to feature inside top 20 along with Kohli (first position), MS Dhoni (sixth position), Dhawan (eleventh position) and Suresh Raina (ni neteenth position). South Africa Defeated Pakistan ODI Series South Africa defeated Pakistan 4-1 in the One-Day International series in UAE on 11 November 2013. In the final match at Sharjah, the South Africa defeated Pakistan by 117 runs to win the series. The two teams will play Twenty20 internationals in Dubai on 13 November 2013 and 15 November 2013. During the match, South African batsman De Villiers hit 115 off 102 deliveries with 10 fours and three sixes, which took the team to a total of 268 runs for seven in 50 overs. With the century, De Villiers also became the fastest South African to reach 6000 ODI runs from 147 innings. South African cricketer died after being hit by ball Darryn Randall , the South African cricketer died on 27 October 2013 after being hit by the ball on the head while batting in the premier league match. He was of 32 years old. He was hit on the side of head, when he tried to attempt a pull on a short delivery. The incidence happened duri ng a match between Ol d Selbornians and Fort Hare University, which was held under the support of the Border Cricket Board at Alice on 27 October 2013. Randall collapsed after the injury and then was rushed to Alice Hospital, where the medical staffs failed to revive him. He is survived by his mother and his fiance. Haroon Lorgat, the CSA chief executive expressed the federations condolences and said it would be offering counseling to those involved in the match. Davis Cup The Czech Republic on 17 November 2013 defended the Davis TENNIS Cup title 2013 after Redek Stepanek defeated the Serbian Dusan Lajovic 6-3, 6-1, 6-1 in the fifth rubber of the final by BNP Paribas Final in Belgrade. With the win Stepanek handed the win too Czech Republic 3-2. With this win, Stepanek became the third player in the history to win Two Davis Cup Finals live fifth singles rubbers. He is also the first man to do so on consecuti ve occasi ons after bypassing Serbian youngster Dusan Lajovic for the loss of just five games. In 2012, he defeated Ni colas Almagro in the fifth rubber of the 100th Final in Prague. Only Frances Henri Cochet (1927, 1929 and 1931) and Britains Fred Perry (1933, 1936) have won two Davis Cup Final live fifth singles rubbers before - Radek Stepanek. Barclays ATP World Tour Final Novak Dj okovi c on 11 http://upscportal.com 65 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com Sports Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: //www.upscportal .com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civi lservi cesmentor. com/mag/subscri be November 2013 retained the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals title after defeating the number one, Rafael Nadal. The worl d number two Djokovic, won 6-3, 6-4 at the O2 Arena in London. The ATP world tour took place from 4 to 11 November 2013. He earned 1923000 US dollar as prize money and 1500 Emirates ATP Rankings points, while Nadal earned 1013000 US dollar and 1000 points as he dropped to a 10-4 record in finals in 2013. Earlier, Djokovic won the same title in the year 2008 and 2012. This is the fifth time, when number 1 versus number 2 in the final in 44 years. They were: 2013: Number 2 Djokovic defeated Number 1 Nadal 2012: Number 1 Djokovic defeated Number 2 Federer 2010: Number 2 Federer defeated Number 1 Nadal 1986: Number 1 Lendl defeated Number 2 Becker 1983: Number 2 McEnroe defeated Number 1 Lendl Djokovi c extended hi s unbeaten run to 22 matches as he claimed the season-ending title for the third time. With this win, he became the seventh player to win the year-end championship at least three times namely Roger Federer (six titles), Ivan Lendl and Pete Sampras (five each), Ilie Nastase (four), and Boris Becker and John McEnroe (three each). Traralgon Ti tle Yuki Bhambri on 4 November 2013 won the ATP mens singles title of Traralgon event in Australia. He defeated Bradely Klahn of America in the summit clash that was hit by rain. This is the second win of his career. Yuki, the 21 years old Indian defeated higher ranking Bradely by 6-7, 6-3, 6-4 in the finals in a match played on two days due to rain. This is the third straight win of Yuki over a higher ranked opponent in this tournament. The 277 ranked Yuki earlier defeated, Tatsuma of Japan ranked 191 and the James Duckworth of Australia ranked 147 in the tournament to reach the finals. BNP Paribas Masters Tennis Tournament 2013 Novak Djokovic of Serbia on 3 November 2013 won the BNP Paribas Masters Tennis tournament at Paris, France. In the title clash, Novak Dj okovic defeated defendi ng champion David Ferrer of Spain in straight sets, 7-5, 7-5. This Paris Master title was Novak Djokovics 40th career title and sixth title in 2013. Novak Djokovic 2013 titles 1. January: Australian Open 2. March: Dubai Championships 3. April: Monte Carlo Masters 4. Oct ober: Chi na Open, Shanghai Masters 5. November: BNP Pari bas Masters (Paris Masters) HOCKEY India qualified for Hockey World Cup 2014 Indian mens hockey team on 3 November 2013 officially qualified for the Rabobank Hockey World Cup 2014. International Hockey Federation (FIH) confirmed the Indias berth in a official press release at Switzerland. Australia success at Oceania Cup on 3 November 2013 confirmed latest teams for world cup 2014. The Rabobank Hockey World Cup will be held from 31 May to 15 June 2014 at The Hague, Netherland. The India mens team finished sixth at the Rabobank HWL Semi Final in Rotterdam and that was enough to confirm their participation in the tournament. A total of 22 teams (11 men/11 women) have now qualified for the Rabobank Hockey World Cup, with just two more places left to fill. The remaining berths will be taken by the winners of the rescheduled Mens and Womens Africa Cup of Nations, whi ch takes pl ace from 18-24 November 2013 in Nairobi, Kenya. Mens Teams for World Cup 1. Netherlands: Hosts 2. Ger many: Conti nental Champions Europe 3. Argent i na: Conti nental Champions Pan America 4. Korea: Continental Champions Asia 5. Aust ral i a: Conti nental Champions Oceania 6. England: 3rd place Hockey http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 66 http://upscportal.com Sports Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: //www.upscportal .com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civi lservi cesmentor. com/mag/subscri be World League Semi-Final, Johor Bahru (MAS) 7. Belgium: 1st place Rabobank Hockey World League Semi- Final, Rotterdam (NED) 8. New Zeal and: 4th pl ace Rabobank Hockey Worl d League Semi-Final, Rotterdam (NED) 9. Spain: 5th place Hockey World League Semi-Final, Rotterdam (NED) 10. Malaysia: 5th place Hockey World League Semi-Final, Johor Bahru (MAS) 11. I ndi a: 6th pl ace Hockey World League Semi -Final , Rotterdam (NED) 3rd Asian Champi ons Trophy 2013 Indian mens hockey team fi nished fifth at the 3rd Asi an Champions Trophy at Kakamigahara, Japan on 10 November 2013. In a fi fth-si xth pl ace match, Indi a defeated Oman 6-1 by scoring at regular intervals in both halves of the game. Pakistan men and Japan women were crowned as the winners of the Asian Champions Trophy following victories over Japan and India respectively. The Bronze medal in mens category went to Malaysia, who defeated China 3-0. Malaysia women matched their mal e counterparts by taking Bronze in the four-nations tournament, claiming a surprise victory over China. 3rd Mens & Womens Asian Champions Trophy held from 2nd to 10th November 2013 at Kakamigahara,Japan. Asian Champions Trophy 2013 The Medallists Men Gold: Pakistan Silver: Japan Bronze: Malaysia Women Gold: Japan Silver: India Bronze: Malaysia India to host Mens Hockey World Cup in 2018 India was selected by the International Hockey Federation (FIH) on 7 November 2013 to host V. Baskaran Appointed as Coach Hockey India on 20 November 2013 appointed the former Olympic gold-medallist V Baskaran as Coach of the Senior Men Hockey Team. Baskaran will work under the recently appointed Chief Coach Terence Walsh. Hockey India on 15 October 2013 appointed the Terence Walsh as Chief Coach of the Senior Men National Hockey Team. About V Baskaran Vasudevan Baskaran who was the captain of the team that won the gold medal at the 1980 Olympics in Moscow has 287 internationals caps and has represented India in the Olympic Games in 1976 Montreal, two World Cups in 1973 Amsterdam (Silver) and in 1978 Buenos Aires, two Asian Games in 1974 Tehran (Silver) and in 1978 Bangkok (Silver) and Champions Trophy in 1978 Pakistan (Bronze). Baskaran coached the senior men national team for ten years. Under his coaching India had played 187 matches including major tournaments such as the Olympic Games in 2000 (Sydney), two World Cups in 1998 in Utrecht and 2006 in Germany, Asian Games 2006 in Doha, Junior World Cup in 1997 in Milton Keynes (Silver) and Champions Trophy in 1997 in Chennai. In 1980, he received the Arjuna Award and in 1981 he received Padamshri Award. the Mens World Cup of Hockey in 2018. The finals will be played from 1 to 16 December 2018. Also, England will host the Womens World Cup of hockey from 7-21 July, 2018. This was announced by Leandro Negre, the President of FIH at Lausanne duri ng the speci al ceremony. Hockeys World Cup is held every four years and is second only to the Olympics in significance. India hosted the world cup in 2010 at New Delhi. The 2014 edition of Hockey World Cup would be played in The Hague, Netherlands. http://upscportal.com 67 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com Sports Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: //www.upscportal .com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civi lservi cesmentor. com/mag/subscri be Lionel Messi awarded third Gol den Shoe Lionel Messi, the Barcelonan forward footballer on 20 November 2013 won the Golden Shoe award. Messi won the award in recognition of hi s 46 goals i n 32 l eagues appearances i n the Europes domestic football league in the 2012- 13 season. This is the third Golden Shoe award of Messi and with this win he became the first footballer win the show three times. Earlier Messi won the award in 2009-10 for 34 goals and a Spanish record 50 in 2011-12. About Lionel Messi Lionel Andres Messi (26) is an Argentine Footballer and a captain to the national team of Argentina. At present he plays for FC Barcelona in Spain. He is the fourth footballer to win 3 Ballons dOr. He is the second player to win three Ballons dOr consecutively after Michele Platini. Mark Schwarzer Retired Australia goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer on 6 November 2013 announced his retirement from i nternati onal footbal l. Mark Schwarzer (41 years old) represented Australia at international level on 109 occasions since his debut in 1993, and one of the key pl ayers in qualifyi ng for three consecutive World Cups. Mark Schwarzer moved to Chelsea as backup to established Petr Cech this season after more than five years and 172 appearances at Fulham. Mark Schwarzer represented Australia at the 2006 and 2010 World cups. Mark Schwarzer is the key player in Socceroos team (Australia National football team) for twenty years. Mark played in Australias 6-0 loss to Brazil in his last match for the national team in September 2013 FOOTBALL ARCHERY/SHOOTING 18th Asian Archery Competi tion Indi as mens compound Archery team on 31 October 2013 won a gold medal in the 18th Asian Archery competition held at Chinese Taipei. Abhishek Verma, Ratan Singh, Sandeep Kumar formi ng the compound team defeated the Korean trio of Lihong Min, Yong Hee Choi and Jongho Kim 233-231 to win the gold. The Indian compound trio showed their consistency right through the qualification round, in which they totalled 2086 points, to be ranked No.1 after they got a bye in the pre-quarters. In the quarters, India ousted Iraq 231-221 while hosts Chinese Taipei faced the elimination going down 220-232. 18th Asi an Archery Championships 2013 was organized by Asian Archery Federation (AAF) in Taipei (TPE) from 29 October to 2 November 2013. Rifle/Pistol World Cup Finals Heena Sidhu became a part of the history by becoming the third Indian pistol shooter to win Gold at the World Cup Final on 10 November 2013 in Munich. In the Womens 10- metre Air Pistol event at the ISSF World Cup final, the 24-year-old shooter defeated World Champion Zorana Arunovic of Serbia to bag her first Gold. Prior to her, Anjali Bhagwat (2003) and Gagan Narang (2008) have won Gold at the rifle/pistol event in World Cup finals. Final Results The overal l resul ts i n the Womens event were as follows: 10m ai r pi st ol : 1. Heena Sidhu 203.8 (384); 2. Zorana Arunovic (Srb) 198.6 (382); 3. Viktoria Chaika (Blr) 176.8 (381). 50m rifle 3-position: 1. Petra Zublasing (Ita) 462.7 (585); 2. Andrea Arsovic (Srb) 457.9 (587); 3. Wu Liuxi (Chn) 446.4 (585); 4. Lajja Gauswami 435.5 (581). http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 68 http://upscportal.com Sports Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: //www.upscportal .com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civi lservi cesmentor. com/mag/subscri be About Heena Sidhu Heena Si dhu was born in Ludhiana, Punjab. She is an Indian shooter. Heena Sidhu along with Annu Raj Singh won the gold medal in womens Pairs 10 metre air Cup tournament, in 10 metre air pistol event, Heena Sidhu won the Silver medal. In 2010 Guangzhou Womens 10m Air Pistol Team event, she won Silver medal in the Asian Games. pi stol at the 2010 Commonwealth Games as well. She also won a silver medal in the si ngl es event i n the Commonwealth Games. In the 2009 Beijing ISSF World GOLF Golf World Cup 2013 Jason Day, Australian Golfer won the Golf world cup at The Royal Melbourne Golf Club in Melbourne on 24 November 2013. Australia team (Jason Day and Adam Scott) also won the team Championships by beating the American team of Matt Kuchar and Kevin Streelman. With this victory Jason Day collected 1.2 million Dollars for sealing individual Title and will share another 600000 Dollars with Adam Scott for winning the team trophy. Indi an Golfer Ani rban Lahi ri fini shed wi th 25t h place and picked up 56000 Dollars for his effort at the tournament. I ndi a f i ni shed 26t h and l ast i n the team Championships. The 2013 Golf World Cup, officially known as ISPS HANDA World Cup of Golf was held from 21 to 24 November 2013 at The Royal Melbourne Golf Club in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. Indian Open Gol f Tournament 2013 Mohammed Si ddikur of Bangladesh won the 50th edition of Indian Open golf tournament on 10 November 2013 at the Delhi Golf Club (DGC), New Delhi. It was his second Asian Tour title after Brunei Open victory in 2010. The tournament carries a cash prize of 1.25 million US dollars. This win catapulted him from ninth to third on the Order of Merit. Siddikur scored a total of 274 to edge past his Indian friends Anirban Lahiri and SSP Chowrasia to win the tournament. Mohammad Siddikur Rahman was born on 20 November 1984. He is a Bangladeshi professional golfer who plays on the Asian Tour. He is known as Tiger Woods of Bengal. F1/MOTOR RACING Brazilian Grand Prix 2013 Formula one raci ng dri ver Sebasti an Vettel won the F1 Brazilian Grand Prix 2013 on 24 November 2013. With this victory vettel matched Mi chael Schumachers record of 13 victories in a year and equalled the nine consecutive wins of Alberto Ascari. Vettels Red Bull teammate Mark Webber was second in his final F1 race. Fernando Alonso of Ferrari was third. The formula one season ending Brazilian GP is Vettels second victory in Brazil, and 39th of his career. Recently, Sebastian Vettel also won the Formula One Indian Grand Prix 2013 at Buddha International Circuit on 27 October 2013. About Sebasti an Vettel Sebastian Vettel is a German formulae one racing driver and at present he is driving for the Red Bull a Austrian racing team. At present he is the world champi on as he won the Championship in 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2013. He was born on 3 July 1987. While driving for Red Bull in 2009, he finished as the season as the youngest ever World Drivers Championship runner- up. He became the youngest driver, who won the World Drivers Championship in 2010 and the same year he helped Red Bull to win the first teams Worl d Constructors Championship. US Grand Prix 2013 Sebastian Vettel of Red Bulls team on 17 November 2013 won http://upscportal.com 69 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com Sports Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: //www.upscportal .com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civi lservi cesmentor. com/mag/subscri be United States Grand Prix. Frances Romain Grosjean in Lotus was second with Red Bulls Mark Webber took the third place. This was his eighth successive race of Vettel in a season. With this win he succeeded ahead of Michael Schumachers previous record of winning seven races in a row in the same season, which was set in 2004. This was also vettels 12th win of the season and if he wins the year-ender in Brazil than he will tie with Michael Schumacher Formulae one record of 13 victories in a single season. The win in the Brazil grand prix that is schedul ed to happen on 24 November 2013 will bring to him ninth victory in a row, which was set by Alberto Ascari. The Mark Webber (37) of Red Bulls will be driving last time in the Brazil grand prix, as it will be his last race in the Formulae one. Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2013 Formula 1 racing dri ver, Sebastian Vettel on 3 November 2013 won the Abu Dhabi Formula 1 Grand Prix at the Yas Marina circuit, Abu Dhabi. Sebastian Vettel clocked 1 minute 43.893 seconds to finish at the top of the table. Vettels team- mate Aussie Mark Webber finished with second position, with Mercedes driver Nico Rosberg of Germany finishing third. Sebastian Vettel won the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix for the second time in his career. (First time is in 2009). This victory has drawn Vettel level with compatriot Michael Schumachers mark of seven successive wins. Earlier, Sebastian Vettel (26 years old) had clinched the title at the Indian Grand Prix on 27 October 2013. The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (formally known as the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix) was a Formula One motor race that was held at the Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi on 3 November 2013. CHESS FIDE World Chess Champi onshi p 2013 Magnus Carlsen of Norway won the FIDE World Chess Championship 2013 at Chennai on 22 November 2013. Magnus Carlsen defeated the previ ous worl d champi on Viswanathan Anand of India by 6.5- 3.5 in the match that was held from 7th November in Chennai, India. The last 10th game (out of 12 possible) finished in a draw after 65 moves of play and Carlsen accumulated the necessary 6.5 points to claim the title. The victory was worth 8.4 crore Rupees for Magnus Carlsen. Anand settled for 5.6 crore Rupees. The match was sponsored by the Tamil Nadu state and organized by FIDE and AICF. This is Carlsens maiden World Chess Champion title in his first attempt itself. Magnus Carlsen also became the first Western player since Bobby Fischer to hold the title. With this victory, Magnus Carlsen also became the second youngest world champion since Garry Kasparov, who was also 22 when he won the title in 1985. The Magnus Calsens victory was also the end of Anands six-year reign as the World champion. It was Anands first loss in a world title match since 2007. Magnus Carlsen, who became the youngest world No. 1 at 19, also holds the record of being the strongest rated player in chess history with a published rating of 2872, on 1 February 2013. About 2013 FI DE Worl d Chess Championship The 2013 FIDE World Chess Championship match which took place from 7 to 22 November in Chennai, India. It is a match for the highest crown in chess between the Defending Champion Viswanathan Anand (India) and the Challenger Magnus Carlsen (Norway). WRESTLING Commonwealth Weightli fti ng Championshi ps Indian weightlifter, Deepak Lathore won Gold and two Silver medals in the Boys 50 Kg category of the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships on 25 November at Penang, Malaysia. On the opening day of the event, Lathore took the Gold in Snatch with a lift of 83 kg. In Clean and Jerk, he lifted 102 kg to claim the Silver. With a total lift of 185 kg, he won another Silver i n the event. The 2013 Commonwealth Senior, Junior and http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 70 http://upscportal.com Sports Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: //www.upscportal .com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civi lservi cesmentor. com/mag/subscri be Youth weightlifting Championships are being held at Penang city of Malaysia from 24 to 30 November 2013. In thi s event, Indi a i s represented by 41 Weightlifters in three categories. About Commonweal t h Weightlifti ng Federati on The Commonwealth Weightlifting Federation (CWF) was established in 1947. It is one of the oldest sporting federations of the Commonwealth and is unique in that it encompasses Commonwealth nations from the five continents and recognised by the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF). Powerlifti ng Asi an Open Championshi ps British Paralympic powerlifter Ali Jawad on 5 November 2013 won gold at the International Paralympic Commi ttee (IPC) Asian Open Championships with a world-record lift. Ali lifted 185.5kg in the 59kg class in Malaysia to better his record by 10.5kg. The championship was held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Ali Jawad is 24 years old. Jawad had won gold at the 2007 Powerli fting European Champi onshi ps in Greece and became World Junior Champion at the 2008 championships in the USA. But at the London Paralympics 2012, he lost the bronze medal to Chinese lifter Wang Jian. Jawad is one of five British athletes competing in Kuala Lumpur which includes fellow Paralympian Natalie Blake and ex-serviceman Micky Yule. World champion water-skier Sarah Teelow Died Sarah Teel ow, the worl d champion water skier of Australia died on 25 November 2013 after a fall during a high-speed endurance race on Australias Hawkesbury River. The 21 year old, Teelow fell from her skis after the start of the 75 mile Bridge to Bridge Water Ski Classic near Sydney. She was airlifted to the hospital in critical condition, with spinal and head injuries and later she died in the hospital. She is the seventh water-skier to die in an accident in Australia in last five years. Teelow had won the Formula 2 category at the World Waterski Racing Championships in Spain in September. Teelow was the daughter of two-time world waterski champion, Tania Teelow. VARIOUS World Athletes of 2013 The Jamaican sprinters, Usain Bolt and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce were crowned the male and female World Athletes of the Year, 2013 on 16 November 2013. They were selected as the world athletes of the year by the sports governing IAAF at a ceremony in Monaco. Gold in the 100 meters, 200 meters and 4x100 relay at the Moscow Worlds in August helped Bolt to take his all-time tally to eight gol ds and two si l vers at the championship. Usain Bolt had been the World Athlete of the Year in 2008, 2009, 2011 and 2012, previously. Bolt won 10 out of hi s 11 100m races (including heats), and was unbeaten in his five races over 200m. Whereas, the Olympic Sprint Champion, the Fraser-Pryce claimed gold medals in three events in Moscow. Fraser- Pryce, regained her 100m title at the 2013 IAAF World Championships, winning in 10.71, which remained the fastest time of the year. Earlier, she had gold and two silvers. Fraser- Pryce became the second Jamaican woman to win, after Merlene Ottey in 1990. Bolt and Fraser-Pryce also received a prize of 100000 US dollars. G V Mavalankar Shooting Championshi p West Bengal, the host of the 23 rd Al l Indi a G V Maval ankar Shooting Championship topped the medals tally on 16 November 2013. The championship concluded at the Chandmari Range in West Bengal. This is the first time that West Bengal topped the medal table of national l evel of shooti ng champi onship. West Bengal , shooters won five gold, five silver and a bronze to top the 10 day long championship. Maharashtra stood at the second positi on i n the championship with four gold, five http://upscportal.com 71 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com Sports Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: //www.upscportal .com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civi lservi cesmentor. com/mag/subscri be silver and three bronze medals. Whereas, Chandigarh was third in the list as it won three gold, one silver and one bronze medal. In the All India G V Mavalankar Shooting Championship, in all 1400 shooters from 15 states, military and para- military forces participated in 72 events in four different categories namely, boys, girls, men and women. Of all the participants, more than 500 shooters have qualified for the national meet, which will be held in New Delhi from 11 December 2013. GS Sandhu reappointed as India Boxing Coach Gurbax Singh Sandhu was on 20 November 2013 reappointed as the national coach of the mens Indian boxing team till the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. This decision was taken in consultation with the Sports Authority of India at New Delhi. First appointed as coach in 1993, Gurbax Singh Sandhu has ably served for almost two decades during which Indian boxers have made ground-breaking progress in the international arena including winning the countrys first Olympic medal, and first World Championship medal, through Vijender Singh (75kg category). -
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P R I Z E S Bharat Ratna Award Bharat Ratna Award Bharat Ratna Award Bharat Ratna Award Bharat Ratna Award The Government of India on 16 November 2013 decided to confer, t he Bharat Ratna, Bharat Ratna, Bharat Ratna, Bharat Ratna, Bharat Ratna, the hi ghest civilian award on eminent scientist Prof CNR Rao Prof CNR Rao Prof CNR Rao Prof CNR Rao Prof CNR Rao and cricket player Sachin Tendulkar. Sachin Tendulkar. Sachin Tendulkar. Sachin Tendulkar. Sachin Tendulkar. Sachin Tendulkar is the first sports person to win the Bharat Ratna Award. The Bharat Ratna award so far, given only to eminent personalities from the field of dance, music, art, literature and the social sector. In the year 2011, the Government of India modified the eligibility criteria for Bharat Ratna Award - to enable eminent Sports- persons to receive the Nations highest civilian award. About Prof. CNR Rao About Prof. CNR Rao About Prof. CNR Rao About Prof. CNR Rao About Prof. CNR Rao Prof. Chintamani Nagesa About Sachin Tendulkar About Sachin Tendulkar About Sachin Tendulkar About Sachin Tendulkar About Sachin Tendulkar Sachin Ramesh Tendulkar is an Indian Batsman who is considered one of the greatest batsmen of the cricket world. Sachin Tendulkar who belongs to Mumbai Maharashtra made his appearance in six world cups for India and was the member of the 2011 World Cup winning squad of the nation. Sachin Tendulkar made his Test debut against arch-rival Pakistan at Karachi in 1989. He made his ODI debut against Pakistan in 1989 in Gujranwala. He currently holds the record for most hundreds in both Tests and One Day Internationals. In 198 Test matches, Sachin Tendulkar scored over Fifteen Thousand Eight hundred runs at an average of 53.86. He slammed 51 Test centuries and an unbeaten 248 against Bangladesh in Dhaka in 2004 was his best ever. He made 49 hundreds in the one-day format, including a double hundred which is the first in this form of cricket and 96 half centuries. In 2012, Sachin Tendulkar became the first player to score 100 international centuries. Sachin Tendulkar Ramachandra Rao (CNR Rao) was born on 30 June 1934, Bangalore, India. He is an eminent scientist and a well recognized international authority on solid state and materials chemistry. He has published over 1400 research papers and 45 books. Prof. CNR Raos contributions have been recognized by most major scientific academies around the world through conferment of memberships and fellowships. He has been honoured with several national and international awards, including Padma Vibhushan. Prof. CNR Rao is Honorary President of Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, Bangalore, India. Prof, CNR Rao is presently servi ng as the head of the head of the head of the head of the head of the Scientific Advisory Council to Scientific Advisory Council to Scientific Advisory Council to Scientific Advisory Council to Scientific Advisory Council to the Prime Minister of India the Prime Minister of India the Prime Minister of India the Prime Minister of India the Prime Minister of India.The Scientific Advisory Council to the Prime Minister is the uppermost body that deliberates on various policy issues, pertaining to Science & Technology and also on the role it can play in the upliftment of the Indian economy. http://upscportal.com 7 3 7 3 7 3 7 3 7 3 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com Awards and Prizes Awards and Prizes Awards and Prizes Awards and Prizes Awards and Prizes Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe About Bharat Ratna award About Bharat Ratna award About Bharat Ratna award About Bharat Ratna award About Bharat Ratna award Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian Award of the country was instituted in the year 1954. It is awarded in recognition of exceptional service/ performance of the highest order in any field of human endeavour. The recommendations for Bharat Ratna are made by the Prime Minister himself to the President. The number of annual awards announced his retirement from Test cricket after playing his landmark 200th Test match against the West Indies on 15 November 2013. Earlier, Sachin Tendulkar announced retirement form one day cricket on 23 December 2012 and from Twenty20 cricket format on 26 May 2013. is restricted to a maximum of three in a particular year. The last recipient of Bharat Ratna award is Pandit Bhimsen Joshi in 2008. The first three Indians, who received the Bharat Ratna were Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman, Chakravarti Rajagopalachari and Sarvapali Radhakrishnan in 1954. There is no written provision that Bharat Ratna should be awarded to Indian citizens only. The award has been conferred to a naturalised Indian c i t i z e n M o t h e r M o t h e r M o t h e r M o t h e r M o t h e r Teresa Teresa Teresa Teresa Teresa (1980) and to two non-I ndi ans Khan Abdul Abdul Abdul Abdul Abdul Ghaffar Khan Ghaffar Khan Ghaffar Khan Ghaffar Khan Ghaffar Khan a nd Nelson Nelson Nelson Nelson Nelson Mandela Mandela Mandela Mandela Mandela (1990). The award does not carry any monetary grant.In terms of Article 18 (1) of the Constitution, the award cannot be used as a prefix or suffix to the recipients name. LIST OF RECIPIENTS OF BHARAT RATNA LIST OF RECIPIENTS OF BHARAT RATNA LIST OF RECIPIENTS OF BHARAT RATNA LIST OF RECIPIENTS OF BHARAT RATNA LIST OF RECIPIENTS OF BHARAT RATNA S. No. S. No. S. No. S. No. S. No. Name Name Name Name Name Awarded In Awarded In Awarded In Awarded In Awarded In 1. Shri Chakravarti Rajagopalachari (1878-1972) 1954 2. Dr. Sarvapali Radhakrishnan (1888-1975) 1954 3. Dr. Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman (1888-1970) 1954 4. Dr. Bhagwan Das (1869-1958) 1955 5. Dr. Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya (1861-1962) 1955 6. Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru (1889 -1964) 1955 7. Pt. Govind Ballabh Pant (1887-1961) 1957 8. Dr. Dhondo Keshave Karve (1858-1962) 1958 9. Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy (1882-1962) 1961 10. Shri Purushottam Das Tandon (1882-1962) 1961 11. Dr. Rajendra Prasad (1884-1963) 1962 12. Dr. Zakir Hussain (1897-1969) 1963 13. Dr. Pandurang Vaman Kane (1880-1972) 1963 14. Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri (Posthumous) (1904-1966) 1966 15. Smt. Indira Gandhi (1917-1984) 1971 16. Shri Varahagiri Venkata Giri (1894-1980) 1975 17. Shri Kumaraswami Kamraj (Posthumous) (1903-1975) 1976 18. Mother Mary Taresa Bojaxhiu (Mother Teresa) (1910-1997) 1980 19. Shri Acharya Vinobha Bhave (Posthumous) (1895-1982) 1983 20. Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan (1890-1988) 1987 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 7 4 7 4 7 4 7 4 7 4 http://upscportal.com Awards and Prizes Awards and Prizes Awards and Prizes Awards and Prizes Awards and Prizes Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe S. No. S. No. S. No. S. No. S. No. Name Name Name Name Name Awarded In Awarded In Awarded In Awarded In Awarded In 21. Shri Marudu Gopalan Ramachandran (Posthumous) (1917-1987) 1988 22. Dr. Bhim Rao Ramji Ambedkar (Posthumous) (1891-1956) 1990 23. Dr. Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela (b-1918) 1990 24. Shri Rajiv Gandhi (Posthumous) (1944-1991) 1991 25. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (Posthumous) (1875-1950) 1991 26. Shri Morarji Ranchhodji Desai (1896-1995) 1991 27. Maulana Abul Kalam Azad (Posthumous) (1888-1958) 1992 28. Shri Jehangir Ratanji Dadabhai Tata (1904-1993) 1992 29. Shri Satyajit Ray (1922-1992) 1992 30. Shri Gulzarilal Nanda (1898-1998) 1997 31. Smt. Aruna Asaf Ali (Posthumous) (1909-1996) 1997 32. Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam (b-1931) 1997 33. Smt. Madurai Sanmukhavadivu Subbulakshmi (1916-2005) 1998 34. Shri Chidambaram Subramniam (1910-2000) 1998 35. Loknayak Jayaprakash Narayan (Posthumous) (1902-1979) 1999 36. Professor Amartya Sen (b-1933) 1999 37. Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi (Posthumous) (1890-1950) 1999 38. Pandit Ravi Shankar (b-1920) 1999 39. Sushri Lata Dinanath Mangeshkar (b-1929) 2001 40. Ustad Bismillah Khan (1916-2006) 2001 41. Pandit Bhimsen Gururaj Joshi (1922-2011) 2009 42. Prof. CNR Rao ( b-1934) 2013 43. Sachin Ramesh Tendulkar (b-1973) 2013 EUs Sakharov Human Rights EUs Sakharov Human Rights EUs Sakharov Human Rights EUs Sakharov Human Rights EUs Sakharov Human Rights Pri ze 2013 Pri ze 2013 Pri ze 2013 Pri ze 2013 Pri ze 2013 Malala Yousafzai, Pakistani teenage activist on 20 November 2013 received the EUs Sakharov human rights prize for her brave crusade for the right of the children to education. The European Parliament President Martin Schulz presented the award to the 16-year-old Malala at a ceremony in Strasbourg, France. Malala Yousafzai dedicated the award to the unsung heroes of Pakistan and to human rights campaigners worldwide. Malala was shot in the head in October 2012 for campaigning for better rights for girls in Swat Valley of northwest Pakistan, an erstwhile Taliban stronghold. About Sakharov Prize About Sakharov Prize About Sakharov Prize About Sakharov Prize About Sakharov Prize The Sakharov Prize for free speech is awarded by the European Parliament annually in memory of Soviet physicist and dissident Andrei Sakharov. The prize was set up in 1988 to honour individuals or organisations for their efforts on behalf of human rights and fundamental freedoms. The 50000-Euro prize is considered Europes top human rights award. In 2012 the award went to detained Iranians, lawyer Nasrin Sotoudeh and film maker Jafar Panahi, to honour those standing up for a better Iran. with this award Malala joins a distinguished list of winners of the prize that includes South Africas Nelson Mandela and Aung San Suu Kyi of Myanmar. Indira Gandhi Indira Gandhi Indira Gandhi Indira Gandhi Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace 2013 Prize for Peace 2013 Prize for Peace 2013 Prize for Peace 2013 Prize for Peace 2013 Dr. Angela Merkel, German Chancellor on 19 November 2013 selected for Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development for the year 2013. The International Jury for the Prize was chaired by the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, which made this announcement on 19 November 2013 on the birth anniversary of Indira Gandhi. Dr. Angela Merkel is nominated for her exemplary leadership in Europe and the world during the financial crises, her commitment to universal peace and http://upscportal.com 7 5 7 5 7 5 7 5 7 5 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com Awards and Prizes Awards and Prizes Awards and Prizes Awards and Prizes Awards and Prizes Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe achievement in the various fields like yoga, taekwondo, painting and dancing. 5. Hardik Jay Prakash Nayar from Daman & Diu for his exceptional achievement in the field of academics. 6. A.A. Aravinda Lochanan from Delhi for his exceptional achievement in various fields like musical instrument (Violin), recitation, quiz etc. 7. Vaishnav Chinmay Surilbhai from Gujarat for his exceptional achievement in the field of academics and sports. 8. Harman Singh from Haryana for her exceptional achievement in the field of dance and culture. 9. Kushagra Rastogi from Himachal Pradesh for his exceptional achievement in the field of academics. 10. Kariha Javaid from Jammu and Kashmir for her exceptional achievement in the field of martial arts and academics. 11. Simpi Kumari from Jharkhand Kashmir for her exceptional achievement in the field of archery. 12. Pooja G. Prabhu from Karnataka for her exceptional achievement in the field of music. 13. Akshay V. A from Kerala for his exceptional achievement in the field of painting. 14. Usman Hanif Patel from Maharashtra for his exceptional achievement in the field of Technical Innovation. 15. Khagembam Binta Devi from Manipur for her exceptional achievement in the field of boxing. 16. Harsha Pattnaik from Odisha for her exceptional achievement in the field of literature. 17. Chirag Gupta from Punjab for his exceptional achievement in the field of sports. disarmament and her leadership role in strengthening productive and mutually beneficial relations with India and other developing countries. About Angela Merkel About Angela Merkel About Angela Merkel About Angela Merkel About Angela Merkel Angela Dorothea Kasner, better known as Angela Merkel, was born in Hamburg, West Germany, on 17 July 1954. Trained as a physicist, Merkel entered politics after the 1989 fall of the Berlin Wall. Rising to the position of Chairwoman of the Christian Democratic Union party, Merkel became Germanys first female chancellor, and one of the leading figures of the European Union, following the 2005 national elections. About Indira Gandhi Prize for About Indira Gandhi Prize for About Indira Gandhi Prize for About Indira Gandhi Prize for About Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Peace, Disarmament and Peace, Disarmament and Peace, Disarmament and Peace, Disarmament and Devel opment Devel opment Devel opment Devel opment Devel opment The Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development was instituted ( i n 1986 i n 1986 i n 1986 i n 1986 i n 1986) in the name of former Prime Minister of India, Indira Gandhi. It celebrates the values that she stood and fought for in the service of our nation and its people. The award is conferred upon the person or an organisation irrespective of race, religion, nationality or other aspects. It consists of award worth 2.5 million Rupees as well as trophy along with citation. The Indiara Gandhi Award is constituted by Indira Gandhi Memorial Trust. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Ellen Johnson Sirleaf , the Liberian President was conferred with the Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development for the year 2012 2012 2012 2012 2012. National Child Award for National Child Award for National Child Award for National Child Award for National Child Award for Exceptional Achievement Exceptional Achievement Exceptional Achievement Exceptional Achievement Exceptional Achievement Krishna Tirath, the union Minister for Women and Child Development on 14 November 2013 gave away the National Child Award for Exceptional Achievement to 22 children on Childrens Day during the opening ceremony of Vatsalya Mela at Dilli Haat. The awards initiated in 1996 are presented every year to the children between the age group 4- 15 years for their exceptional achievements in various fields including academics, art, culture and sports etc. They include a Gold Medal with cash prize of 20000 Rupees and a citation, and 21 Silver Medals with cash prize 10000 Rupees and citations. The Vatsalya Mela is celebrated on the day of Jawahar Lal Nehrus birth anniversary, which also marks the Childrens Day. The Gold Medal was presented to Harshal Shahi from Delhi for his exceptional achievement in the field of chess. Out of 21 Silver Medal Out of 21 Silver Medal Out of 21 Silver Medal Out of 21 Silver Medal Out of 21 Silver Medal winners, 10 are girls. The names winners, 10 are girls. The names winners, 10 are girls. The names winners, 10 are girls. The names winners, 10 are girls. The names are: are: are: are: are: 1. S. Harshitha Reddy from Andhra Pradesh for her exceptional achievement in the field of mathematics. 2. Dhanraj Sahariah from Assam for his exceptional achievement in the various fields like martial arts, dance, music, swimming and theatre. 3. M. Shraddha from Chandigarh for her exceptional achievement in the field of Hindustani classical music. 4. Anjali Yadav from Chattisgarh for her exceptional http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 7 6 7 6 7 6 7 6 7 6 http://upscportal.com Awards and Prizes Awards and Prizes Awards and Prizes Awards and Prizes Awards and Prizes Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe 18. Megha Gupta from Rajasthan for her exceptional achievement in various fields such as academics, sports, dance, skating, drawing, football and arts. 19. R. Ajeetha from Tamil Nadu for her exceptional achievement in the field of yoga. 20. Pranay Fartyal from Uttar Pradesh for his exceptional achievement in the field of academics. 21. Mitrabha Guha from West Bengal for his exceptional achievement in the field of chess. GG2 Leadership Awards GG2 Leadership Awards GG2 Leadership Awards GG2 Leadership Awards GG2 Leadership Awards Malala Yousafzai, Kainat Riaz and Shazia Ramzan on 27 November 2013 were chosen for the GG2 Hammer Award, for their bravery at the GG2 (Garavi Gujarat 2) Leadership Awards 2013 a London. The activist Malala Yousafzai won the number one spot in the GG2 Power List 101 for her work in raising awareness for female empowerment. Malala Yousafzai, the teenager from Pakistan, who was shot in the head by the Taliban for campaigning for girls education. She has been named as the Britains most influential Asian by a weekly publication. Kainat Riaz and Shazia Ramzan were shot and wounded in Swat Valley last year. The GG2 Hammer Award winner of 2013 transcends every boundary and appeals to the very core of our humanity. The GG2 Power 101 has been compiled by The Asian Media and Marketing Group (AMG) and features the top 101 most influential Asians in the UK, ranging from all walks of life. Now in its third year, the list honours some notable British Asians who hold power and influence not just in Britain, but also globally. Others who received the Others who received the Others who received the Others who received the Others who received the award are: award are: award are: award are: award are: Ingrid Loyau-Kennett was handed the GG2 Spirit in the Community Award for her courage and bravery in the face of the Woolwich attackers Simon Woolley, the founding member and director of Operation Black Vote was given the GG2 Pride of Britain Award Physicist Professor Tejinder Virdee, who has previously worked on the investigation of the Higgs Boson particle, was honoured with the GG2 Man of the Year Award Christine Lee received the award for Woman of the Year for her success in establishing and managing the largest British Chinese law firm in the UK Other Asians who were Other Asians who were Other Asians who were Other Asians who were Other Asians who were ranked in the list: ranked in the list: ranked in the list: ranked in the list: ranked in the list: Nick Clegg, British Deputy Premier, who was the chief guest on the occasion, was ranked first in the latest edition of GG2 Power 101 list. Chairman of the Home Affairs Committee MP Keith Vaz, who headed the power list last year, has been ranked as Number 2. The steel tycoon Lakshmi Mittal was ranked at Number 3. The Hinduja brothers, Srichand, Gopichand, Ashok and Prakash, were ranked at Number four in the Power 101. Lord Swraj Paul and his son Angad were ranked at Number 21 on the list. International Indian of the International Indian of the International Indian of the International Indian of the International Indian of the Decade Award Decade Award Decade Award Decade Award Decade Award Lord Swraj Paul, a leading NRI industrialist and educationist was presented with the International Indian of the Decade award on 15 November 2013. Swraj Paul was presented the award for his outstanding achievements in the fields of industry, education and philanthropy. Virender Paul, the acting High Commissioner of India to the UK presented the award to Lord Swraj Paul at the 20th anniversary of the publication of India Link International (a monthly magazine). About Lord Swraj Paul About Lord Swraj Paul About Lord Swraj Paul About Lord Swraj Paul About Lord Swraj Paul Lord Swraj Paul is the founder of the UK-based steel and engineering multinational company Caparo, which at present employs about 10000 people worldwide from UK, USA and India. He was made the Life Peer is a member of the House of Lords in 1996 and donated 1 million pounds to prevent the London Zoo closure in 1994. He became the first Indian- born Deputy Speaker of the House of Lords in 2008 and was also appointed to the Privy Council in 2009. From 2000 to 2008, he was the member of the London Development Agency. He chaired the London Development Agency Olympics Delivery Committee http://upscportal.com 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com Awards and Prizes Awards and Prizes Awards and Prizes Awards and Prizes Awards and Prizes Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe between 2005 to 2008, which was responsible for delivering the land and infrastructure for the London 2012 Olympic Games on time and on budget In 1999, he became the chancellor of the University of Wolverhampton in 1999. In 2006, he became the Chancellor of the University of Westminster. From 1992 to 1997, he was the pro- chancellor of Thames University and its chancellor in 1998 In 1983 he was awarded the Padma Bhushan by the Government of India In 1998, he was granted the freedom of the city of London Universities of UK, USA, Switzerland and India has awarded him 15 honorary degrees Massachusetts Institute of Technology gave him the Corporate Leadership Award New Horizons in New Horizons in New Horizons in New Horizons in New Horizons in Physics Prize 2014 Physics Prize 2014 Physics Prize 2014 Physics Prize 2014 Physics Prize 2014 Shiraz Naval Minwalla, Professor of Physics in TIFR, Mumbai selected for the 2014 New Horizons in Physics Prize on 5 November 2013. He was awarded for his pioneering for his pioneering for his pioneering for his pioneering for his pioneering contributions to the study of contributions to the study of contributions to the study of contributions to the study of contributions to the study of string theory and quantum field string theory and quantum field string theory and quantum field string theory and quantum field string theory and quantum field theory; and in particular his theory; and in particular his theory; and in particular his theory; and in particular his theory; and in particular his work on the connection work on the connection work on the connection work on the connection work on the connection between the equations of fluid between the equations of fluid between the equations of fluid between the equations of fluid between the equations of fluid dynamics and Albert Einsteins dynamics and Albert Einsteins dynamics and Albert Einsteins dynamics and Albert Einsteins dynamics and Albert Einsteins equations of general relativity. equations of general relativity. equations of general relativity. equations of general relativity. equations of general relativity. The New Horizons for Physics Prize awarded to promising junior researchers by Fundamental Physics Prize Foundation. The award carries prize money of 100000 US Dollars. The other laureates of 2014 The other laureates of 2014 The other laureates of 2014 The other laureates of 2014 The other laureates of 2014 New Horizons in Physics Prize New Horizons in Physics Prize New Horizons in Physics Prize New Horizons in Physics Prize New Horizons in Physics Prize are: are: are: are: are: Freddy Cachazo, Freddy Cachazo, Freddy Cachazo, Freddy Cachazo, Freddy Cachazo, Perimeter Institute, for uncovering numerous structures underlying scattering amplitudes in gauge theories and gravity. Vyacheslav Rychkov Vyacheslav Rychkov Vyacheslav Rychkov Vyacheslav Rychkov Vyacheslav Rychkov, CERN/ Pierre-and-Marie-Curie University/ cole Normale Suprieure, for developing new techniques in conformal field theory, reviving the conformal bootstrap program for constraining the spectrum of operators and the structure constants in 3D and 4D CFTs. About Fundamental Physics About Fundamental Physics About Fundamental Physics About Fundamental Physics About Fundamental Physics Prize Foundation Prize Foundation Prize Foundation Prize Foundation Prize Foundation The Fundamental Physics Prize Foundation is a not-for-profit corporation established by t he Milner Foundation, Russia in Milner Foundation, Russia in Milner Foundation, Russia in Milner Foundation, Russia in Milner Foundation, Russia in 2012 2012 2012 2012 2012 and dedicated to advancing our knowledge of the Universe at the deepest level by awarding annual prizes for scientific breakthroughs, as well as communicating the excitement of fundamental physics to the public. Two categories of prizes will be awarded for past achievements in the field of fundamental physics, with the aim of providing the recipients with more freedom and opportunity to pursue even greater future accomplishments. The Fundamental Physics Fundamental Physics Fundamental Physics Fundamental Physics Fundamental Physics Pri ze Pri ze Pri ze Pri ze Pri ze recognizes transformative advances in the field, while the New New New New New Horizons in Physics Prizes Horizons in Physics Prizes Horizons in Physics Prizes Horizons in Physics Prizes Horizons in Physics Prizes a r e targeted at promising junior researchers. Gol den Gol den Gol den Gol den Gol den Elephant Award in ICFF Elephant Award in ICFF Elephant Award in ICFF Elephant Award in ICFF Elephant Award in ICFF The 18th International Childrens Film Festival concluded on 20 November 2013 in Hyderabad. A Dutch Film named Kauwboy, directed by Boudewijn Koole won the Golden Elephant Award for best film in the International Live Action category. The film is about a 10 year old boy and a bird. The Golden Plaque for second-best film in the same section was won by a German film Das Pferd Auf Dem Balkon or A horse on the Balcony. The Jury Prize for the best artwork was won by a Hindi film Goopi Gawaiya Bagha Bajaiya directed by Shilpa Ranade. Ernest Et Celestine won the award for the Best Animation Feature and Zarafa won the Golden Plaque for the second best animation film in the International Animation Competition section that has been added in 2013. During the film festival, Batul Mukthiar received the best director award for his film Kaphal in the International Live Action. The best screenplay award went to Nono-The Zigzag Kid. The Golden Elephant trophy for Best Little Director category was given to an Indian film Breaking Silence and Tamator Chor. The Golden Plaque for the second best Little Director went to Phoolwati Amma and Mondial World School. The film festival was organised by the Childrens Film Festival India (CFSI), which is an autonomous body under the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and Andra Pradesh Government. The Festival started on 14 November 2013. IAAC honour IAAC honour IAAC honour IAAC honour IAAC honour Salman Rushdie, Mira Nair and Majula Bansal, the prominent Indian http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 7 8 7 8 7 8 7 8 7 8 http://upscportal.com Awards and Prizes Awards and Prizes Awards and Prizes Awards and Prizes Awards and Prizes Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe Americans on 21 November 2013 were honoured by Indo-American Arts Council (IAAC) at the Angel Orensanz Foundation of Contemporary Art. The author, Salman Rushdie and filmmaker, Mira Nair were honoured for their commitment and contributions to the global artistic community. Whereas, Manjula Bansal, a renowned Indian- American pathologist was honoured for her contribution to Indian performing, visual and literary arts to New York Citys diverse cultural scene. Indo-American Arts Council Indo-American Arts Council Indo-American Arts Council Indo-American Arts Council Indo-American Arts Council The Indo-American Arts Council (IAAC) is a registered 501(c)3 not-for-profit, secular service and resource arts organization charged with the mission of promoting and building the awareness, creation, production, exhibition, publication and performance of Indian and cross- cultural art forms in North America. The IAAC supports all the artistic disciplines in classical, fusion, folk and innovative forms influenced by the arts of India. First Centenary First Centenary First Centenary First Centenary First Centenary film award at IFFI film award at IFFI film award at IFFI film award at IFFI film award at IFFI Waheeda Rehman, the veteran actress of Bollywood will be conferred with the inaugural Centenary Award for the Indian Film Personality of the Year 2013 at the 44th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa on 20 November 2013. The award will be given to her in recognition of her contributions to Dayawati Modi Award Dayawati Modi Award Dayawati Modi Award Dayawati Modi Award Dayawati Modi Award Anjolie Ela Menon, a contemporary artist was awarded with Dayawati Modi Award for Art and Culture and Education by Dayawati Foundation on 19 November 2013. The award comprised of a cash price of 2.51 lakh rupees, a silver shield and a scroll of hounour. It was presented to her by the Minister of state for Prime Minister Office, Department of personnel and Training, Government of India. About Anjolie Ela Menon About Anjolie Ela Menon About Anjolie Ela Menon About Anjolie Ela Menon About Anjolie Ela Menon Anjolie Ela Menon was born in 1940 in India She is one the leading contemporary female artist and well known muralist She held a solo exhibition with fifty-three variety style at age of 18 She was awarded Padma Shree in 2000 Most recently a major work yatra was acquired by the Asian Art Museum of San Francisco, California. Infosys Prize 2013 Infosys Prize 2013 Infosys Prize 2013 Infosys Prize 2013 Infosys Prize 2013 The Infosys Science Foundation on 12 November 2013 the film industry. She has been selected unanimously by the team of five member jury. The award has been instituted by the Government of India to mark the 100 years of Indian Cinema. It includes a prize amount of 10 lakh rupees and a citation. Nehru Fellowship Nehru Fellowship Nehru Fellowship Nehru Fellowship Nehru Fellowship Professor Mushirul Hasan, the former Vice-Chancellor of Jamia Millia Islamia on 14 November 2013 was conferred with the Jawaharlal Nehru Fellowship by the Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Fund. The title of the Hasans fellowship project is Roads to Freedom Prison, Prisoners and the Raj. The project of professor Hasan will see how the jails were used during the time of Raj to bring down the body and soul of those resting or revolting against the British. About Professor Mushirul About Professor Mushirul About Professor Mushirul About Professor Mushirul About Professor Mushirul Hasan Hasan Hasan Hasan Hasan He is an internationally known historian and has written extensively on the partition. He did his MA from Aligarh Muslim University and the PhD from Cambridge in 1977. He was awarded Padma Shri and the Ordre des Palmes Academiques by the French Government in 2010. He was also the Director- General of the National Archives from May 2010 to May 2013. http://upscportal.com 7 9 7 9 7 9 7 9 7 9 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com Awards and Prizes Awards and Prizes Awards and Prizes Awards and Prizes Awards and Prizes Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe announced the winners of the Infosys Prize 2013 across six categories: Engineering & Computer Science, Humanities, Life Sciences, Mathematical Sciences, Physical Sciences and Social Sciences. The winners were recognized for their outstanding achievements and contributions to scientific research. The Infosys Science Foundation also announced an increase in the prize purse by 5 Lakhs to 55 Lakhs rupees for each category for 2013. The prize for the Humanities category will be split equally between the two winners. The seven winners were chosen based on significant progress showcased in their chosen spheres, as well as for the impact their research will have on the specific field. In addition to the prize purse, each category award includes a gold medallion and a citation certificate. The distinguished winners of t he 5th Infosys Prize 2013 5th Infosys Prize 2013 5th Infosys Prize 2013 5th Infosys Prize 2013 5th Infosys Prize 2013 are: 1. Engineering and Computer Science Prof. Ramgopal Prof. Ramgopal Prof. Ramgopal Prof. Ramgopal Prof. Ramgopal Rao, Rao, Rao, Rao, Rao, Institute Chair Professor Department of Electrical Engineering and Chief Investigator, Centre of Excellence in Nanoelectronics, Indian Institute of Technology, Mumbai 2. 2. 2. 2. 2. Humanities Humanities Humanities Humanities Humanities Archaeol ogy Archaeol ogy Archaeol ogy Archaeol ogy Archaeol ogy Prof. Nayanj ot Prof. Nayanj ot Prof. Nayanj ot Prof. Nayanj ot Prof. Nayanj ot Lahiri, Lahiri, Lahiri, Lahiri, Lahiri, Professor Department of History, University of Delhi, New Delhi Li ngui sti cs Li ngui sti cs Li ngui sti cs Li ngui sti cs Li ngui sti cs Prof. Ayesha Ki dwai , Prof. Ayesha Ki dwai , Prof. Ayesha Ki dwai , Prof. Ayesha Ki dwai , Prof. Ayesha Ki dwai , Professor Centre for Linguistics, School of Language, Literature and Culture Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 3. 3. 3. 3. 3. Life Sciences Life Sciences Life Sciences Life Sciences Life Sciences Dr. Raj esh Dr. Raj esh Dr. Raj esh Dr. Raj esh Dr. Raj esh Gokhale, Gokhale, Gokhale, Gokhale, Gokhale, Director, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology, New Delhi 4. 4. 4. 4. 4. Mathematical Sciences Mathematical Sciences Mathematical Sciences Mathematical Sciences Mathematical Sciences Prof. Rahul Prof. Rahul Prof. Rahul Prof. Rahul Prof. Rahul Pandharipande Pandharipande Pandharipande Pandharipande Pandharipande, Professor Department of Mathematics, Eidgenssische Technische Hochschule, Zrich (ETH Zurich) 5. 5. 5. 5. 5. Physical Sciences Physical Sciences Physical Sciences Physical Sciences Physical Sciences Prof. Shi raz Naval Prof. Shi raz Naval Prof. Shi raz Naval Prof. Shi raz Naval Prof. Shi raz Naval Mi nwal l a, Mi nwal l a, Mi nwal l a, Mi nwal l a, Mi nwal l a, Professor Department of Theoretical Physics, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Mumbai and Member, School of Natural Sciences, Institute for Advanced Studies, New Jersey, USA 6. 6. 6. 6. 6. Social Sciences Social Sciences Social Sciences Social Sciences Social Sciences Prof. Ani nhal l i R. Prof. Ani nhal l i R. Prof. Ani nhal l i R. Prof. Ani nhal l i R. Prof. Ani nhal l i R. Vasavi, Vasavi, Vasavi, Vasavi, Vasavi, Senior Fellow, Nehru Memorial Museum and Library, New Delhi About the Infosys Science About the Infosys Science About the Infosys Science About the Infosys Science About the Infosys Science Foundati on Foundati on Foundati on Foundati on Foundati on The Infosys Prize is awarded under the aegis of the Infosys Science Foundation, a not-for-profit trust set up in February 2009 by the management of the Infosys company. The Infosys Science Foundation is funded by a corpus which today stands at over 100 Crore Rupees contributed by the trustees and Infosys. United Nation Award United Nation Award United Nation Award United Nation Award United Nation Award Martha Dodray, a health worker from Bihar on 6 November 2013 won the global UN Award for her commitment and dedication to eradicate Polio in India. United Nation has conferred the UN Frontline Workers Global Leadership Award to Martha Dodray. The award was given in recognition of the roles to individuals, organizations, and corporations played in supporting the work of the United Nations to advance global peace, justice, and prosperity. The United Nations Foundation and the United Nations Association of the USA (UNA-USA) honored recipients of the 2013 Global Leadership Awards at the annual Global Leadership Dinner in New York City. About Martha Dodray About Martha Dodray About Martha Dodray About Martha Dodray About Martha Dodray Martha Dodray is an Auxiliary Nurse & Midwife (ANM) from Darbhanga district of Bihar She represented the worldwide polio frontline workers. Her contribution cause was recognized by United Nations Foundation in 2013 and awarded The other honorees The other honorees The other honorees The other honorees The other honorees recogni zed were recogni zed were recogni zed were recogni zed were recogni zed were Malala Yousafzai, honored for her role as a global activist on behalf of educating and empowering girls worldwide The Documentary Group and 10x10 for Girl Rising, honored for its efforts to ensure all girls receive an education GE Africa honored for its commitment to the Secretary General Ban Ki-moons Every Women Every Child initiative and for building partnerships across Africa to advance country-owned solutions, innovation and development in health care Ambassador Samantha Power, U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations, was presented the Leo Nevas Human Rights Award for her enduring commitment to the global advancement of human http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 8 0 8 0 8 0 8 0 8 0 http://upscportal.com Awards and Prizes Awards and Prizes Awards and Prizes Awards and Prizes Awards and Prizes Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe rights and a strong U.S.-UN relationship Senator Timothy E. Wirth, former UN Foundation President, and current Board Vice Chair, recipient of the Champion for Global Change, was honored for his leadership in advancing womens rights, sustainable development, and climate security throughout his career, including his 15-year legacy as President of the UN Foundation About the United Nations About the United Nations About the United Nations About the United Nations About the United Nations Foundati on Foundati on Foundati on Foundati on Foundati on The United Nations Foundation builds public-private partnerships to address the worlds most pressing problems and broadens support for the United Nations through advocacy and public outreach. Through innovative campaigns and initiatives, the Foundation connects people, ideas, and resources to help the UN solve global problems. The Foundation was created in 1998 as a U.S. public charity by entrepreneur and philanthropist Ted Turner and now is supported by global corporations, foundations, governments, and individuals. About UNA-USA About UNA-USA About UNA-USA About UNA-USA About UNA-USA The United Nations Association of the United States of America (UNA-USA) is a membership organization dedicated to informing, inspiring, and mobilizing the American people to support the ideals and vital work of the United Nations. For 70 years, UNA-USA has worked to accomplish its mission through its national network of Chapters, youth engagement, advocacy efforts, education programs, and public events. UNA- USA is a program of the United Nations Foundation. UNA-USA and its sister organization the Better World Campaign represent the single largest network of advocates and supporters of the United Nations in the world. Engi neeri ng Engi neeri ng Engi neeri ng Engi neeri ng Engi neeri ng Excellence Award 2013 Excellence Award 2013 Excellence Award 2013 Excellence Award 2013 Excellence Award 2013 Engineering Excellence Award 2013 was conferred on the Security Printing and Minting Corporation of India Limited (SPMCIL), a Public Sector Unit under the Ministry of Finance, and Government of India on 19 November 2013. The award was given by Engineering Watch at SCOPE Convention Centre in Delhi. The second Best Engineering Marvel for Project Innovativeness was conferred on Modernisation of Ink Factory Project at Bank Note Press, Dewas. Indigenisation of Bank Note Paper production at Security Paper Mill, Hoshangabad and Modernisation of Bank Note Press, Dewas have been awarded under the Special Mention Category. Security Printing and Minting Security Printing and Minting Security Printing and Minting Security Printing and Minting Security Printing and Minting Corporation of India Limited Corporation of India Limited Corporation of India Limited Corporation of India Limited Corporation of India Limited Security Printing and Minting Corporation of India Limited (SPMCIL) was formed after corporatization of nine units including four mints, four presses and one paper mill, which were earlier functioning under the Ministry of Finance. The Company was incorporated on 13 January 2006 under the Companies Act, 1956 with its headquarters at New Delhi. SPMCIL is a Miniratna Category-I CPSE, and wholly owned Schedule A Company of Government of India. It is engaged in the manufacture of security paper, minting of coins, printing of currency and bank notes, non-judicial stamp papers, postage stamps, travel documents and others. Asian Trader Editors Award Asian Trader Editors Award Asian Trader Editors Award Asian Trader Editors Award Asian Trader Editors Award Priti Patel, an Indian Origin British MP on 22 November 2013 has been honoured with the prestigious Asian Trader Editors Award. She was awarded for her tireless campaigning to support small shops and convenience stores. She was awarded at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge Hotel in a ceremony held. Priti has supported the sector by campaigning for tougher punishments for offenders, who commit retail crime, reforms to business rates and cuts to red tape. She has also warned the Government of the impact on small shops of new tobacco controls being proposed by Europe. Indira Gandhi NSS Best Indira Gandhi NSS Best Indira Gandhi NSS Best Indira Gandhi NSS Best Indira Gandhi NSS Best University Award 2012-13 University Award 2012-13 University Award 2012-13 University Award 2012-13 University Award 2012-13 President of India Pranab Mukherjee on 19 November 2013 presented Indira Gandhi National Service Scheme Best University Award 2012-13 to Mangalore University of Karnataka. Mangalore University is fourth in the row of universities winning Indira Gandhi NSS Award in Karnataka. Prior to this http://upscportal.com 8 1 8 1 8 1 8 1 8 1 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com Awards and Prizes Awards and Prizes Awards and Prizes Awards and Prizes Awards and Prizes Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe university, RGUHS, Bangalore University, and UAS Dharwad had received this award. The award comprises a memento and a citation along with a cash prize of 2 lakh Rupees. President of India also gave NSS Best Plus 2 Council Award for 2012- 13 t o Directorate of Higher Directorate of Higher Directorate of Higher Directorate of Higher Directorate of Higher Secondary Education, Secondary Education, Secondary Education, Secondary Education, Secondary Education, T h i r u v a n a n t h pu r a m T h i r u v a n a n t h pu r a m T h i r u v a n a n t h pu r a m T h i r u v a n a n t h pu r a m T h i r u v a n a n t h pu r a m wh i l e Upcoming University Award was presented to Kumaun University, Kumaun University, Kumaun University, Kumaun University, Kumaun University, Nainital. Nainital. Nainital. Nainital. Nainital. The awards are given to educational institutions, faculty and students for their contribution in various beneficial and voluntary activities. The awards were presented on the occasion of National Integration Day (19 November 2013) at a function in Rashtrapati Bhawan, New Delhi. National Integration Day is the Birth anniversary of the first woman Prime Minister of the India, Indira Gandhi. Outstanding American by Outstanding American by Outstanding American by Outstanding American by Outstanding American by Choice Award Choice Award Choice Award Choice Award Choice Award Rahul Jindal, a doctor of Indian origin was selected on 9 November 2013 for the prestigious Outstanding American by Choice award. He was awarded for his contribution to US health sector. He will be honoured by the US citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) at women in Military Service for America Memorial at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia on 13 November 2013. Rahul is a transplant surgeon and philanthropist. Buy online at: http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/books GEOGRAPHY for Civil Services Preliminary Examination KALINJAR PUBLICATIONS
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N E W S Imomali Rakhmon Imomali Rakhmon Imomali Rakhmon Imomali Rakhmon Imomali Rakhmon Central Election Commission (CEC) of Tajikistan on 6 November 2013 declared that Imomali Rakhmon was re-elected as the President of Tajikistan. Imomali Rakhmon belongs to Peoples Democratic Party of Tajikistan (PDPT). The President of Tajikistan is elected by popular vote. The term of the office is 7 years. The term of the President of Tajikistan is limited to not more than two terms. However, a constitutional amendment passed in 2003 allows President Imomali Rakhmon to run for Solapur district Court and shifted to the Bombay High Court in the year 1977. He was Chief Justice of the High Court of Delhi from May 2008 till his retirement in February 2010. He is known for his bold judgments, especially concerning social issues, including the world-headliner July 2009 ruling that found Indias 150- year-old statute prohibiting homosexual acts (Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code) as discriminatory and, therefore, a violation of fundamental rights. 20th Law Commission of India 20th Law Commission of India 20th Law Commission of India 20th Law Commission of India 20th Law Commission of India The 20th Law Commission of India was constituted with the Order of the Government of India with effect from 1 September 2012. It has a three-year term ending on 31st August, 2015. The commission would be responsible for identification of obsolete laws and suggest measures suitable for quick grievance handling and redressal of the citizens. It would also be examining the laws that effects poor and suggest measures a third term which, if he prevails, would keep him in office until 2020. Justice Ajit Prakash Shah Justice Ajit Prakash Shah Justice Ajit Prakash Shah Justice Ajit Prakash Shah Justice Ajit Prakash Shah Union Government on 22 November 2013 appointed Justice Ajit Prakash Shah as the new Chairman of the 20th Law Commission of India. Justice Ajit Prakash Shah succeeded Justice D. K. Justice D. K. Justice D. K. Justice D. K. Justice D. K. Jain Jain Jain Jain Jain who resigned in October 2013 to take over as the President of National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission. Justice Ajit Prakash Shah was born on 13 February, 1948 at Solapur, Maharashtra. He started practice at APPOINTED http://upscportal.com 8 3 8 3 8 3 8 3 8 3 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com In The News In The News In The News In The News In The News Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe which would help in harnessing the law and the legal process for the economically weaker and poor section of the society. Abdullah Yameen Abdullah Yameen Abdullah Yameen Abdullah Yameen Abdullah Yameen Abdulla Yameen, the candidate of Progressive Party of Maldives on 16 November 2013 defeated the former premier, Mohammed Nasheed to win the Maldivian Presidential elections. Election Commission of Maldives announced the result of the election on 16 November 2013, in which Yameen defeated Mohamed Nasheed of Maldivian Democratic Party with a margin of six thousand votes. Yameen secured 51.39 percent (1 lakh 11 thousand) of votes, whereas Mohamed Nasheed received 48.61 (1 lakh 5 thousand votes). 45 foreign observers and 22 foreign monitors saw the transparency and credibility of the election. The winning candidate Abdullah Yameen will be sworn in as the President at a special seating of the Majlis, the Maldivian Parliament. Neeraj Sahai Neeraj Sahai Neeraj Sahai Neeraj Sahai Neeraj Sahai Neeraj Sahai, Indian-American has appointed as president of Standard & Poors Ratings Services, the worlds largest ratings firm. He was appointed by McGraw Hill Financial Company. Neeraj Sahai (56) will assume his new role at Standard & Poors from 6 January 2014. Neeraj Sahai, who did his masters in economics from the University of Delhi, is currently head of Citis Securities and Fund Services business and also acts as chief fiduciary officer of Citigroup. He succeeds Douglas Peterson, who became president and chief executive officer of McGraw Hill Financial on 1 November 2013. Nisha Desai Biswal Nisha Desai Biswal Nisha Desai Biswal Nisha Desai Biswal Nisha Desai Biswal Nisha Desai Biswal was on 21 November 2013 sworn in as the US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia. United States Secretary of State John K Kerry administered the oath to Nisha Desai Biswal as she was sworn in as the US Assistant Secretary of State at the George Marshall East Auditorium of the White House. Nisha Desai Biswal took over charge from Robert Robert Robert Robert Robert Bl ake Bl ake Bl ake Bl ake Bl ake, who moved recently to Indonesia as ambassador.Before her appointment to this position, Biswal was assistant administrator for Asia at the US Agency for International Development. Nisha Desai Biswal will oversee the US Foreign Policy and relations at the State Department for India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Kazakhstan, Kirghizstan, Maldives, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. This is the first time an I ndi an- I ndi an- I ndi an- I ndi an- I ndi an- American American American American American is heading the South Asia Bureau, a new milestone for the Indian community. Satyananda Mishra Satyananda Mishra Satyananda Mishra Satyananda Mishra Satyananda Mishra Multi Commodity Exchange of India Ltd on 27 November 2013 appointed Satyananda Mishra as the chairman of MCXs board. Market Regulatory authority, the Forward Forward Forward Forward Forward Markets Commission (FMC) Markets Commission (FMC) Markets Commission (FMC) Markets Commission (FMC) Markets Commission (FMC) al so approved the appointment of Satyananda Mishra as the independent Director of MCXs board for a period up to 31 March 2016. The previous chairman of MCX, Venkat Chary, resigned in August 2013 due to the new guidelines of Forward Markets Commission (FMC). The FMC new guidelines stated that the age limit of people on the board should not be more than 70 years. Kushal Das Kushal Das Kushal Das Kushal Das Kushal Das The All India Football Federation (AIFF) on 20 November 2013 reappointed Kushal Das as AIFF General Secretary for a second term of another three years. Kushal Das, who had served as Chief Financial Officer of the ICC and International Management Group (IMG) India, was appointed as AIFF General Secretary in November 2010. The Executive Committee of AIFF also approved the recommendations of AIFF Technical Committee to extend the contract of national team coach Wim Koevermans and Technical Director http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 8 4 8 4 8 4 8 4 8 4 http://upscportal.com In the News In the News In the News In the News In the News Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe Rob Baan by one year. National footbal l team coach Wi m Wi m Wi m Wi m Wi m Koevermans Koevermans Koevermans Koevermans Koevermans contract was extended till October 2014. Besides the national team, Koevermans will also be in charge on Indias campaign in 2014 Incheon Asian Games. In June 2012, The All India Football Federation appointed f or mer Net her l ands Net her l ands Net her l ands Net her l ands Net her l ands f oot bal l player Wilhelmus Jacobus Koevermans, popularly known as Wim Koevermans, Wim Koevermans, Wim Koevermans, Wim Koevermans, Wim Koevermans, as the new head coach of the Indian national football team. Parvinder Sohi Behuria Parvinder Sohi Behuria Parvinder Sohi Behuria Parvinder Sohi Behuria Parvinder Sohi Behuria Parvinder Sohi Behuria, a Senior IRS officer was appointed as the Secretary General of National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on 8 November 2013. Behuria was appointed in the rank and pay of the secretary. She is the successor of Ashok Sahu, a 1975 batch officer of Indian Economic Service, following his retirement. She is a 1977 batch IRS (Income Tax) officer. At present, she is the Member (Revenue) in Central Board of Direct Taxes under the Department of Revenue. Usha Ananthasubramanian Usha Ananthasubramanian Usha Ananthasubramanian Usha Ananthasubramanian Usha Ananthasubramanian The Union Government on 12 November 2013 appointed Usha Ananthasubramanian as the chairperson and managing director of public sector Bharatiya Mahila Bank (BMB), the first womens bank. Before joining BMB, she was an Executive Director with Punjab National Bank (PNB). Usha Ananthasubramanian started her career in the actuarial department with LIC and banking career in February 1982 with Bank of Baroda. She holds a masters degree in statistics from the University of Madras and a masters degree in ancient Indian culture from University of Mumbai. During her tenure at Punjab National Bank, she was part of the panel formed for examination of the blueprint and other issues for setting up of the womens bank. The panels report paved the way for Indias first public sector womens bank. About Bharatiya Mahila Bank About Bharatiya Mahila Bank About Bharatiya Mahila Bank About Bharatiya Mahila Bank About Bharatiya Mahila Bank The bank aims to service women and women-run businesses, support womens self-help groups and their livelihoods and promote further financial inclusion. An only-for-women bank first time in India. The Union Cabinet cleared the proposal for setting up of all- women bank on August 2013. The Reserve Bank of India gave its in-principal approval for the Bharatiya Mahila Bank in June 2013 and the banking company was set up. The Union government approved 1000 crore Rupees seed capital for the women- focused public sector bank, announced by Union finance minister P. Chidambaram in his 2013-14 budget speech. One of the key objectives of the bank is to focus on the banking needs of women and promote economic empowerment. Five Central Information Five Central Information Five Central Information Five Central Information Five Central Information Commissioners appointed Commissioners appointed Commissioners appointed Commissioners appointed Commissioners appointed Five new Information Commissioners are appointed to the Central Information Commission (CIC) on 22 November 2013. Chief Information Commissioner Deepak Sandhu administered the oath of office to them in New Delhi. The new commissioners are Yashovardhan Azad, Sharat Sabharwal, Manjula Parasher , M A Khan Yusufi and Madabhushanam Sridhar Acharyulu. With this the total number of Information Commissioners including the Chief Information Commissioner has gone up to 10. 1. .. .. Yashovardhan Azad Yashovardhan Azad Yashovardhan Azad Yashovardhan Azad Yashovardhan Azad, a former IPS Officer, before joining the Office of Information Commissioner in Central Information Commission, was holding the post of Secretary (Security) in Cabinet Secretariat. 2. Sharat Sabharwal Sharat Sabharwal Sharat Sabharwal Sharat Sabharwal Sharat Sabharwal a career diplomat, retired as High Commissioner of India in Pakistan before joining the Office of Information Commissioner. 3. Manjula Parasher Manjula Parasher Manjula Parasher Manjula Parasher Manjula Parasher a former Indian Postal Service Officer had retired as Secretary from the Department of Posts before joining the Office of Information Commissioner. 4. MA Khan Yusufi MA Khan Yusufi MA Khan Yusufi MA Khan Yusufi MA Khan Yusufi , a former Indian Legal Service Officer, before joining the Office of Information Commissioner in CIC was holding the post of Chairperson in Airport Appellate Tribunal. 5. Madbhushanam Sridhar Madbhushanam Sridhar Madbhushanam Sridhar Madbhushanam Sridhar Madbhushanam Sridhar Acharyulu Acharyulu Acharyulu Acharyulu Acharyulu was working as Professor at NALSAR, before joining the Office of Information Commissioner in CIC. http://upscportal.com 8 5 8 5 8 5 8 5 8 5 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com In The News In The News In The News In The News In The News Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe G. K. Pillai G. K. Pillai G. K. Pillai G. K. Pillai G. K. Pillai G.K. Pillai, the former Union Home Secretary on 1 November 2013 was appointed as the Chairman of the MCX-SX. Thomas Mathew T, the former acting chairman of the Life Insurance Corporation has also been appointed as the Vice President of the bourse. The appointments were cleared by the board of directors on 24 October 2013 and have been also cleared by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). In October 2013, SEBI had also renewed the license of the exchange after extensively exam the same. Sachin Tendulkar Sachin Tendulkar Sachin Tendulkar Sachin Tendulkar Sachin Tendulkar Indian Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar on 28 November 2013 appointed as UNICEFs first brand ambassador for South Asia. Sachin Tendulkar will work for promoting hygiene and sanitation in the South Asian region for two years. Sachin Tendulkar was already involving with the UNICEF campaigns for polio and worked as District and Sessions Judge in Coimbatore and Vellore, and Principal District and Sessions Judge in Pudukottai, Madras, Tirunelveli and Salem. She also worked as Chief Metropolitan Magistrate, Chennai. She was made a judge of the Madras High Court on 3 April 2003. According to clause (1) o f Article 217 of the Article 217 of the Article 217 of the Article 217 of the Article 217 of the Constitution of India Constitution of India Constitution of India Constitution of India Constitution of India every Chief Justice of the High Court shall be appointed by the President of India after consultation with the Chief Justice of India and the Governor of the concerned State. In the case of appointment of a Judge of the High court, the President will also consult the concerned Chief Justice High Court. The Jharkhand High Court came into existence after reorganiszation of state of Bihar in existing state of Bihar and Jharkhand o n 15 November 2000. 15 November 2000. 15 November 2000. 15 November 2000. 15 November 2000. Justice Ajay Justice Ajay Justice Ajay Justice Ajay Justice Ajay Manikrao Khanwilkar Manikrao Khanwilkar Manikrao Khanwilkar Manikrao Khanwilkar Manikrao Khanwilkar Justice Ajay Manikrao Khanwilkar was sworn in as the 22nd Chief Justice of Madhya Pradesh by Governor Ram Naresh Yadav at Raj Bhavan, Bhopal on 24 November 2013. He was appointed by President global hand washing. According to UNICEF, almost half the population in India defecates in the open and 681 million people practice open defecation in South Asia. Children under five years of age are the most vulnerable to the effects of poor sanitation and annually more than half a million children in South Asia die of diarrhoea caused by unsafe drinking water, poor hygiene and lack of sanitation. After sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia is the region with the highest number of under-five deaths, accounting for 2.3 million in 2011. Around 39 percent of children under five are stunted in this region which is also the worst in terms of lack of toilets; over 680 million people do not use toilets. R. Banumathi R. Banumathi R. Banumathi R. Banumathi R. Banumathi Justice R. Banumathi, Judge of the Madras High Court was on 12 November 2013 appointed as the Chief Justice of the Jharkhand High Court. She was appointed by the President of India, Pranab Mukherjee. The Supreme Courts collegium has cleared her elevation as Chief Justice in August 2013 and the Union government has taken three months to process and notify the appointment. Justice R. Justice R. Justice R. Justice R. Justice R. Banumathi Banumathi Banumathi Banumathi Banumathi (58) entered the Tamil Nadu Higher Judicial Service in 1988 as a direct recruit district judge. She http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 8 6 8 6 8 6 8 6 8 6 http://upscportal.com In the News In the News In the News In the News In the News Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe of India, under the Article 217 of the Constitution of India. Justice Khanwilkar was earlier the Chief Justice of Himachal Pradesh and has also been a judge in the Bombay High Court. He was preceded by Justice Sharad Arvind Bobde who was elevated to the Supreme Court in April 2013. Justice Khanwilkar will take office at the principal seat of the MP High Court in Jabalpur on 26 November 2013. Justice Ajay Manikrao Khanwilkar was born on 30 July, 1957 at Pune, Maharashtra. He completed Bachelor of Commerce from Mulund College of Commerce, Mumbai University. Bachelor of Laws from K.C. Law College,Mumbai University. He Enrolled as Advocate on 10 February, 1982. According to clause (1) of Article 217 of the Constitution of India every Chief Justice of the High Court shall be appointed by the President of India after consultation with the Chief Justice of India and the Governor of the concerned State. In the case of appointment of a Judge of the High court, the President will also consult the concerned Chief Justice High Court. DEATH Reshma Reshma Reshma Reshma Reshma Legendary Pakistani folk singer Reshma passed away in Lahore, Pakistan on 3 November 2013 after a long battle with throat cancer. She was 66 years old. She is known for her popular songs such as Lambi Judai and Dama Dam Mast Kalandar. She is survived by a son and a daughter. Reshma was born in 1947 in Bikaner, Rajasthan, in a Banjara family. She has no formal education in music, but at the age of just 12 years, she was seen singing at the Shahbaz Qalanders shrine. Thereafter, her iconic song Laal Meri was recorded on the state-run Pakistan Radio. With this, she became the most popular folk singer of Pakistan. She appeared on the television in the year 1960 and recorded songs for not just Pakistani film industry, but also the Indian cinema. Some of her most popular songs also include Hai O Rabba nahion lagda dil mera and Ankhiyan no rehen de ankhyan de kol kol. She won various national awards such a s Sitara-i-Imtiaz as wel l a s Legends of Pakistan, by the President of Pakistan. She performed in India during 1980s when exchange of artists was allowed between India and Pakistan. Indian filmmaker Subhash Ghai used her voice in Hero which also featured her most famous song Lambi Judai. Omprakash Valmiki Omprakash Valmiki Omprakash Valmiki Omprakash Valmiki Omprakash Valmiki Noted Dalit writer Omprakash Valmiki passed away on 17 November 2013 at Dehradun, Uttarakhand. He died at the age of 63 after prolonged illness due to cancer. Omprakash Valmiki is one of the most famous Dalit litterateurs in Hindi and he portrayed the life of Dalits with an authentically Dalit voice. He was born in Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh in 1950. He worked with Government Ordnance Factory Dehradun. Valmikis autobiography Joothan is one of his famous works. In his autobiography Joothan (1997) he spoke in detail about the caste discrimination, persecution and humiliation tha he faced, whe he is growing up. Joothan is regarded as a milestone in Hindi literature. Valmikis other works also include three collections of poetry (in Hi ndi ): Sadiyon ka santap (The centuries-old anguish, 1989), Bas! bahut ho chuka (Stop it! Thats enough, 1997) and Ab aur nahin (Not any more, 2009). Jagadguru Kripaluji Maharaj Jagadguru Kripaluji Maharaj Jagadguru Kripaluji Maharaj Jagadguru Kripaluji Maharaj Jagadguru Kripaluji Maharaj Ram Kripalu Tripathi Ram Kripalu Tripathi Ram Kripalu Tripathi Ram Kripalu Tripathi Ram Kripalu Tripathi, popularly known as Jagadguru Kripaluji Maharaj passed away on 15 November 2013 at New Delhi. He was 91 years old. He was given the title of Jagadguru (the world teacher) at the age of 34 years, in 1957. Ram Kripalu Tripathi was born in October 1922 at Allahabad, India. He was the preceptor of Jagadguru Kripalu Parishat, which is the worldwide Hindu non-profit organization with 5 main spiritual centers. This is considered as one among the largest Hindu Temple complexes in entire Northern Hemisphere. His discourses were broadcasted everyday on various religion channels such as Zee Jagran, Aastha TV and Sanskar TV. He authored various books such as Prem Ras Siddhant, Bhakti Shatak and Radha Govind Geet. http://upscportal.com 8 7 8 7 8 7 8 7 8 7 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com In The News In The News In The News In The News In The News Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe Frederick Sanger Frederick Sanger Frederick Sanger Frederick Sanger Frederick Sanger Frederick Sanger, a British biochemist who is the only person to win Nobel Prize two times for Chemistry died on 19 November 2013 in Cambridge, eastern England. He was aged 95. For the first time, he won the Nobel Prize in 1958 for development of the methods, which helped to unravel the chemical structure of Protein, mainly insulin. Second Nobel Prize was given to him in 1980, jointly with Walter Gilbert and Paul Berg for the development of the techniques to read the sequences of DNA, which carries the basic code for life. By winning two Nobel, Sanger became one of the four people who had won the Nobel Prizes two times. The other winners of Nobel Prize two times are Marie Curie, John Bardeen and Linus Pauling. Sher Choudhury Sher Choudhury Sher Choudhury Sher Choudhury Sher Choudhury Assamese music director Sher Choudhury passed away on 6 November 2013 at B. Baruah Cancer Institute in Guwahati, Assam. He was 69. Sher Choudhury received National Award for best music director for the Gautam Bora directed film Wosobi po i n Wosobi po i n Wosobi po i n Wosobi po i n Wosobi po i n 1990. 1990. 1990. 1990. 1990. His first film as music director was Prothom Ragini, directed by late Dhiru Bhuyan, for which he received an award from EIMPA. Sher Choudhury had also composed music for Sanjib Hazarikas national- award winning film Halodhar. He gave music for award-winning films like Mimangsha, I Killed Him Sir, Raag Birag, Adajyo, Rongbin, Chakrabehu, Nissihido Nodi, Ahir- Bhairav and Dwaar-The Voyage Out. He also won best music director award for Raag Birag, Adajyo and Nishiddho Nodi in Assam. He composed music for several documentary films and directed the documentary Sound of the dying Colours which won the best promotional national film award. Tarla Dalal Tarla Dalal Tarla Dalal Tarla Dalal Tarla Dalal Tarla Dalal, one of the first celebrity chefs of India as well as prolific cookbook writer died on 6 November 2013 due to heart attack in Mumbai. She was 77 years old and is survived by three children. She authored more than 100 cookbooks which sold three million copies. Her website tarladalal.com is the largest food website of Asia. Doris Lessing Doris Lessing Doris Lessing Doris Lessing Doris Lessing British Nobel Prize-winning author Doris Lessing was died on 17 November 2013 at London.She was 94 years old. Her best-known works a r e The Golden Notebook, The Golden Notebook, The Golden Notebook, The Golden Notebook, The Golden Notebook, Memoirs of a Survivor Memoirs of a Survivor Memoirs of a Survivor Memoirs of a Survivor Memoirs of a Survivor and The The The The The Summer Before the Dark. Summer Before the Dark. Summer Before the Dark. Summer Before the Dark. Summer Before the Dark. In her life time she wrote more than 80 books, including poetry, two operas, short stories, plays and non-fiction. In 2007, the 88-year-old Doris Lessing became the oldest recipient of oldest recipient of oldest recipient of oldest recipient of oldest recipient of the Nobel Prize in the Nobel Prize in the Nobel Prize in the Nobel Prize in the Nobel Prize in Literature. Literature. Literature. Literature. Literature. and onl y the 11th woman to win the award. Doris Lessing was born on 22 October 1919, in Kermanshah, Iran. When she was 3, the family settled in southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe). Her debut novel The Grass is The Grass is The Grass is The Grass is The Grass is Singing Singing Singing Singing Singing was published in 1950 and she made her breakthrough with The Golden Notebook in 1962. Her first novel, The Grass is Singing is about a woman trapped in a doomed marriage in a troubled country, a stinging critique of racial politics in the former Rhodesia. Ishwar Das Rohani Ishwar Das Rohani Ishwar Das Rohani Ishwar Das Rohani Ishwar Das Rohani Iswardas Rohani, the speaker of the Madhya Pradesh Assembly died on 5 November 2013 due to cardiac arrest at Jabalpur. He was the speaker of the assembly of Madhya Pradesh from 2003. He was 67. BJP fielded him from the Jabalpurs Cantt segment for the elections of the state to be held on 25 November 2013. http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 http://upscportal.com In the News In the News In the News In the News In the News Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe Shoma Chaudhury Shoma Chaudhury Shoma Chaudhury Shoma Chaudhury Shoma Chaudhury Shoma Chaudhury, managing editor of Tehelka, on 27 November 2013 announced her resignation from the Tehelka, an investigative magazine. This resignation came in the wake of the sexual harassment case in which a young Tehelka reporter alleged that the magazines editor in chief Tarun Tejpal had sexually assaulted her during an event the magazines group conducted in Goa. Shoma Chaudhurys resignation came after six other senior journalists quit the magazine after the alleged sexual assault came to light. Writers including Jay Mazoomdaar, Ayesha Siddiqa, Revati Laul and Rana Ayyub put in their papers following the incident. Tehelka magazines editor in chief Tarun Tejpal also stepped down as editor following allegations of sexual assault on 21 November 2013. Yogesh Agarwal Yogesh Agarwal Yogesh Agarwal Yogesh Agarwal Yogesh Agarwal The Chairman of Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA), Yogesh Agarwal resigned from the post of Chairman on 13 November 2013. He resigned because of the Governments decision to not allow him to be a part of the selection panel for members of the regulator. In the meanwhile, Joint Secretary Anup Wadhawan was appointed as the new Chairman of PFRDA by the Finance Ministry. It is important to note that Yogesh Agarwal had one and half years more as his tenure of the Chairman. Valdis Dombrovskis Valdis Dombrovskis Valdis Dombrovskis Valdis Dombrovskis Valdis Dombrovskis The Latvian Prime Minister, Valdis Dombrovskis announced his resignation and thereby the fall of the Government on 27 November 2013. He resigned due to the deadly collapse of Maxima supermarket of Riga on 21 November 2013. His announcement came during the meeting with Andris Berzins, the President of Latvia. Dombrovskis is the longest serving prime minister in Latvias history. About 54 people died in the collapse of the supermarket. This collapse is the biggest loss of life in the country since its independence from the USSR in 1991. The police had opened a criminal investigation into the cause of the disaster. The possible explanations to the collapse include a flawed design, substandard construction materials, and corruption. Further it depends on the President, Andris Berzins to accept or reject the resignation and nominate an acting Prime Minister, who will be responsible to form a new cabinet. ACCUSED/RESIGNED/CONTROVERSY BOOKS/AUTHORS Birth of Cinema Birth of Cinema Birth of Cinema Birth of Cinema Birth of Cinema The book entitled Birth of Cinema written by N. Gopal Krishna was released at ICFFI media centre by a Journalist T. Udayawarluon 18 November 2013. The book comprises of details related to the advanced cinematic technologies like the 3D shootings and Voice enhancements and others, which were popularized by the Hollywood directors. He is a film maker of Andhra Pradesh. During the launch, he said that the Government patronization of the children films, which should be in the form of providing cinema halls, publicity and lower entertainment tax. 7th Edition of Indian 7th Edition of Indian 7th Edition of Indian 7th Edition of Indian 7th Edition of Indian Pharmacopoeia 2014 Pharmacopoeia 2014 Pharmacopoeia 2014 Pharmacopoeia 2014 Pharmacopoeia 2014 The Union Health and Family http://upscportal.com 8 9 8 9 8 9 8 9 8 9 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com In The News In The News In The News In The News In The News Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe Welfare Minister, Ghulam Nabi Azad released the 7th edition of Indian Pharmacopoeia 2014 a book of Drug Standards at the Nirman Bhawan on 4 November 2013. About the book- Indian About the book- Indian About the book- Indian About the book- Indian About the book- Indian Pharmacopoeia 2014 Pharmacopoeia 2014 Pharmacopoeia 2014 Pharmacopoeia 2014 Pharmacopoeia 2014 The book entitled Indian Pharmacopoeia 2014 includes the standards of drug all over the world. These standards given in this pharmacopoeia are authoritative, legally enforceable and intended to help in the inspection and licensing of manufacturing units and distribution of drugs and pharmaceuticals. The new edition includes advanced technology and experimental methods widely adopted in India and abroad. The seventh edition of the Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP 2014) has been published by the Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) in fulfillment of the requirements of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 and Rules thereunder. It prescribes the standards for drugs produced and/or marketed in India and thus contributes in the control and assurance of the quality of the medicines. The Indian Pharmacopoeia 2014 is presented in four volumes. The scope of the Pharmacopoeia has been extended to include products of biotechnology, indigenous herbs and herbal products, veterinary vaccines and additional antiretroviral drugs and formulations, inclusive of commonly used fixed-dose combinations. Standards for new drugs and drugs used under National Health Programmes are added and the drugs as well as their formulations not in use now days are omitted from this edition. It incorporates 2548 monographs of drugs out of which 577 are new monographs consisting of APIs, excipients, dosage forms, antibiotic monographs, insulin products and herbal products etc. 19 New Radiopharmaceutical Monographs and 1 General chapter is first time being included in this edition. Objective of Indian Objective of Indian Objective of Indian Objective of Indian Objective of Indian Pharmacopoeia 2014 Pharmacopoeia 2014 Pharmacopoeia 2014 Pharmacopoeia 2014 Pharmacopoeia 2014 The Indian Pharmacopoeia 2014 will be able to fulfill the mission of the Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission to promote public health, both in India and other countries using drugs manufactured in India. Maimaar-E-Qaun Maimaar-E-Qaun Maimaar-E-Qaun Maimaar-E-Qaun Maimaar-E-Qaun Hamid Ansari, the Vice President of India on 21 November 2013 released a book entitled Maimaar-E-Qaun-Dr. A. R. Kidwai. The book has been edited by Mufti Ataur Rahman Ansari. Dr A.R. Kidwai has been compiled in the book creatively. He was a learned scientist and served as a professor at Aligarh Muslim University. He contributed in the formation of Mewat Development Board in Haryana. Momentous Times Momentous Times Momentous Times Momentous Times Momentous Times The Vice President of India, M. Hamid Ansari released a book entitled Momentous Times on the 175 years of Times of India at a function in New Delhi on 11 November 2013. The Momentous Times is the fine collection and is the quick glimpse of a selective history. The book is an effort of the Times of India Group. The book brings together 175 landmark events, from 1838 to 2013, as seen through the eyes of Times of India. The book provides a glimpse on how dramatically our country has changed in this one-and- three-quarter century. HONOUR 150th birth celebrations of 150th birth celebrations of 150th birth celebrations of 150th birth celebrations of 150th birth celebrations of Swami Vivekananda Swami Vivekananda Swami Vivekananda Swami Vivekananda Swami Vivekananda Jitin Prasada, the Union Minister of State for Human Resources Development on 28 November 2013 released a music album to commemorate 150th birth celebrations of Swami Vivekananda. The released album contains original poem of Swami Vivekananda among others. The poems have been sung by Akshayaa Vibho and Amrutaa Vibho 11 year old twin sisters from Delhi. Akshayaa Vibho has rendered the song and Amrutaa Vibho has accompanied on the acoustic drums. Akshayaa learns Hindustani classical vocal from Pandit Sitangshu Chaudhary of Rampur Sehaswan Gharana. She also specializes in http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 9 0 9 0 9 0 9 0 9 0 http://upscportal.com In the News In the News In the News In the News In the News Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe rendering of patriotic songs and film songs of Lata Mangeshkar. Whereas, Amrutaa is being trained under the legendary mridanga vidwan Dr. T. K. Murthy, international drum star Shri Sivamani and Shri Chandrakant Mohanti of Bollywood fame. Amrutaa is the only the youngest female drum player in India. Prof CNR Rao Prof CNR Rao Prof CNR Rao Prof CNR Rao Prof CNR Rao Eminent Scientist and Bharat Ratna Awardee Prof CNR Rao was on 4 November 2013 elected as honorary foreign member of Chinese Academy of Science (CAS). He is first Indian to be elected to this prestigious Chinese Academy of Science (CAS) which comprises of many Nobel laureates and eminent scientist across the world. CNR Rao has been elected to almost all scientific academies of the world including The Royal Society- London, National Academy of Science-USA, Pontifical Academy of Science, Japan Academy and Royal Spanish Academy of Sciences, among others. Miss Venezuela Gabriela Isler Miss Venezuela Gabriela Isler Miss Venezuela Gabriela Isler Miss Venezuela Gabriela Isler Miss Venezuela Gabriela Isler Gabriela Isler from Venezuela won Miss Universe 2013 contest on 9 November 2013 held at Crocus City Hall in Moscow, Russia. Patricia Yurena Rodriguez from Spain finished as the first runner-up, whereas Constanza Baez from Ecuador was the second runner up. Manasi Moghe from India had been shortlisted for the top 10 finalists of Miss Universe 2013 but failed to win the crown. Miss Universe is the oldest International beauty pageant. The top 10 finalists comprised India, Dominican Republic, Venezuela, Ukraine, Ecuador, USA, Brazil, Great Britain, Spain and Philippines. Top 5 finalists included Ecuador, Spain, Brazil, Philippines, Venezuela. Mara Gabriela Isler was born on 21 April 1988 in Valencia, Carabobo, Venezuela. She is a Venezuelan fashion model and beauty pageant titleholder who was crowned Miss Venezuela 2012. She is the third Miss Universe from Venezuela in 6 years. Commemorative Coins on Commemorative Coins on Commemorative Coins on Commemorative Coins on Commemorative Coins on Abul Kalam Azad Abul Kalam Azad Abul Kalam Azad Abul Kalam Azad Abul Kalam Azad The Union Finance Minister P.Chidambaram released a Commemorative Coin of 20 Rupees a circulation coin of 5 Rupees to mark the culmination of the 125th Birth Anniversary of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad at New Delhi on 11 November 2013. 2013 marked the culmination of 125th Birth Anniversary of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad. Maulana Azad was one of Indias most prominent freedom fighters, who espoused the cause of an undivided India. He was the first Minister of Education of India and was also awarded countrys highest civilian award, the Bharat Ratna in 1992. On that occasion, two commemorative coins were brought out by the Ministry of Finance. VARIOUS Wi pha Wi pha Wi pha Wi pha Wi pha A powerful typhoon Wipha on 16 October 2013 caused landslides and flooding on Izu Oshima Island, South of Tokyo. The storm brought strong winds and record rainfall - 122mm (4.8 inches) in one hour to Izu Oshima Island, which lies some 120km (75 miles) south of Tokyo. It caused damage to property and human lives. Wipha is the equivalent of a category 3 hurricane. Wipha is http://upscportal.com 9 1 9 1 9 1 9 1 9 1 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com In The News In The News In The News In The News In The News Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe the 12th typhoon and 26th named storm of the west Pacific typhoon season. It was the strongest storm to impact the region since Typhoon Tokage in October, 2004. 44th International Film 44th International Film 44th International Film 44th International Film 44th International Film Festival of India Festival of India Festival of India Festival of India Festival of India The 44th International Film 44th International Film 44th International Film 44th International Film 44th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) Festival of India (IFFI) Festival of India (IFFI) Festival of India (IFFI) Festival of India (IFFI) began at Panaji in Goa on 20 November 2013 with great fanfare. Academy award winning actress Suasan Sarandon inaugurated the 11- day cinematic extravaganza by lighting the traditional lamp in the distinguished presence of Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting Manish Tewari, Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parriker and a galaxy of cine stars. The 44th International Film Festival of India. A package of 19 films from the North-East will explore the immense ethnic, traditional and cultural diversity in the 8 states of North- East. The Lifetime Achievement Award is being conferred on the legendary Czech fi l m di rector Ji ri Ji ri Ji ri Ji ri Ji ri Menzel Menzel Menzel Menzel Menzel whose films have been acknowledged as the Czech New Wave Cinema. Renowned actress Waheeda Rehamn Waheeda Rehamn Waheeda Rehamn Waheeda Rehamn Waheeda Rehamn will be conferred with the first Centenary Centenary Centenary Centenary Centenary Award Award Award Award Award for Indian Film Personality of the Year. The 44th IFFI will showcase Japanese Japanese Japanese Japanese Japanese films in t he country focus section country focus section country focus section country focus section country focus section. Czech comedy THE DON THE DON THE DON THE DON THE DON JUANS JUANS JUANS JUANS JUANS directed by Jiri Menzel will open the 44th International Film Festival of India. Indian Panorama category comprises of 26 feature films and 16 non-feature films from contemporary Indian cinema. India (from 20 to 30 November 2013) is organized by the IFFI Secretariat under the aegis of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India, in collaboration with the Government of Goa. A variety of film screening programmes, academic sessions and cultural exchange programmes will mark the occasi on. Around 160 foreign 160 foreign 160 foreign 160 foreign 160 foreign film film film film films are to be showcased in this edition under various categories. 44th edition of IFFI is unique on several accounts. The festival would highlight for the first time Cinema Cinema Cinema Cinema Cinema from the North Eastern from the North Eastern from the North Eastern from the North Eastern from the North Eastern states of AWARDS About IFFI About IFFI About IFFI About IFFI About IFFI The International Film Festival of India (IFFI) is one of the most significant film festivals in Asia, held every year every year every year every year every year. It aims at providing a common platform for the cinemas of the world to project the excellence of the film art, contributing to the understanding and appreciation of film cultures of different nations in the context of their social and cultural ethos, and promoting friendship and cooperation among people of the world. The first edition of IFFI was organized by the Films Division, Government of India at Mumbai Mumbai Mumbai Mumbai Mumbai 1952. 1952. 1952. 1952. 1952. 22nd Commonwealth Heads 22nd Commonwealth Heads 22nd Commonwealth Heads 22nd Commonwealth Heads 22nd Commonwealth Heads Of Government Meeting Of Government Meeting Of Government Meeting Of Government Meeting Of Government Meeting (CHOGM) (CHOGM) (CHOGM) (CHOGM) (CHOGM) The 22nd Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, CHOGM began in Colombo, Sri Lanka on 15 November 2013. The Summit was inaugurated by Prince Charles of England, who is representing Queen Elizabeth at the Commonwealth Summit. The theme for CHOGM 2013 i s Growth with Equity; Inclusive Growth with Equity; Inclusive Growth with Equity; Inclusive Growth with Equity; Inclusive Growth with Equity; Inclusive Development. Development. Development. Development. Development. The official symbol for CHOGM is Water lily flower. Water lily flower. Water lily flower. Water lily flower. Water lily flower. http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 9 2 9 2 9 2 9 2 9 2 http://upscportal.com In the News In the News In the News In the News In the News Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe The logo symbolises the blue water lily (Nil Manel), the national flower of Sri Lanka. The multi coloured petals represent the diversity, liveliness and unity among different Commonwealth countries within a global perspective. External Affairs Mi ni st er Salman Khurshid Salman Khurshid Salman Khurshid Salman Khurshid Salman Khurshid i s represented the India in the 22nd Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). This year, CHOGM in Sri Lanka, the first time an Asian country is hosting the summit in 24 years. The last CHOGM Summit (in 2011) was held at Perth, Australia. About CHOGAM About CHOGAM About CHOGAM About CHOGAM About CHOGAM The Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) is hel d every two years every two years every two years every two years every two years to enable leaders of Commonwealth countries to come together to discuss global and Commonwealth issues, and to decide on collective policies and initiatives. Every CHOGM is jointly organized by the host country and the Commonwealth Secretariat. These biennial meetings serve as the principal policy and decision-making forum to guide the strategic direction of the association. Commonwealth leaders have been coming together for discussions since 1949 1949 1949 1949 1949, but the title Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting was adopted during a session in Singapore i n 1971 1971 1971 1971 1971. This specific classification was used to depict the gathering of both presidents and prime ministers in the event. One unique aspect of the meeting is that the formal opening ceremony and the formal Executive Session are followed by a where leaders meet privately for discussions. With an informal atmosphere, this session allows heads of state to freely and frankly exchange their views on important issues and come to a consensus. Previous CHOGMs have focused on a range of global issues, including international peace and security, democracy, climate change, multilateral trade issues, good governance, sustainable development, small states, debt management, education, environment, gender equality, health, human rights, information and communication technology, and youth affairs. The theme of the 2011 2011 2011 2011 2011 C H O G M C H O G M C H O G M C H O G M C H O G M i n P e r t h , P e r t h , P e r t h , P e r t h , P e r t h , A u s t r a l i a , A u s t r a l i a , A u s t r a l i a , A u s t r a l i a , A u s t r a l i a , w a s B u i l d i n g B u i l d i n g B u i l d i n g B u i l d i n g B u i l d i n g National Resilience, Building National Resilience, Building National Resilience, Building National Resilience, Building National Resilience, Building Global Resilience. Global Resilience. Global Resilience. Global Resilience. Global Resilience. Fi tow Fi tow Fi tow Fi tow Fi tow Typhoon Fitow Fitow Fitow Fitow Fitow slammed into Southeastern China on 7 October 2013 with powerful winds and heavy rains. The tropical cyclone Fitow st ruck Fuding city of Fujian Fuding city of Fujian Fuding city of Fujian Fuding city of Fujian Fuding city of Fujian province province province province province with winds of up to 151 kilometers (94 miles) an hour. The typhoon also killed at least five people and impacted three million people. More than half a million people had been evacuated and fishing boats were called back to shore and authorities issued a red alert. The provincial flood relief agency in Zhejiang stated that 574000 people had been evacuated by 6 October 2013 evening and 35800 vessels returned to shore. Fujians government stated 177000 people had been moved to safety and nearly 30000 fishing boats called back. The typhoon cut power in towns and counties in Zhejiang province while high-speed rail services in the region were suspended. At least 27 flights out of Wenzhou airport in Zhejiang were canceled on 6 October 2013. Typhoon Fitow came just weeks after Typhoon Usagi Typhoon Usagi Typhoon Usagi Typhoon Usagi Typhoon Usagi killed at least 25 peopl e i n southern southern southern southern southern Guangdong province Guangdong province Guangdong province Guangdong province Guangdong province. Typhoon Fitow named after a flower. Gargee Ghosh Gargee Ghosh Gargee Ghosh Gargee Ghosh Gargee Ghosh Barack Obama, the President of US on 21 November 2013 appointed an Indian-American Gargee Ghosh to a key administration post as the member of the Presidents Global Development Council. At present, Ghosh is the Director of Policy Analysis and Financing (PAF) at Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, since 2012. From 2004 to 2009, Gargee Ghosh also held roles in global health and international economics with the Gates Foundation. Before the Gates Foundation, Ghosh served McKinsey & Company as a Senior Expert in the international development practice. She also worked at the Google and the Centre for Global Development. At University of California San Franciscos Global Health Group, she is a member of the advisory board. Mahatma Gandhis Charkha Mahatma Gandhis Charkha Mahatma Gandhis Charkha Mahatma Gandhis Charkha Mahatma Gandhis Charkha Charkha of Mahatma Gandhi that he used in Yerwada Jail during the Quit India Movement was auctioned in UK on 5 November 2013 for 110000 (1.1 crore rupees approximately) at England. The charkha of Mahatma Gandhi is about eight decades old. His last/final will was also auctioned over 20000 (19 lakh rupees approximately) for historical documents and artefacts by the Mullocks Auction house in Shropshire, England. The name of the http://upscportal.com 9 3 9 3 9 3 9 3 9 3 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com In The News In The News In The News In The News In The News Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe buyer was kept secret by the buyer. The Charkha made by Indian teak was gifted by Mahatma Gandhi to Revd Floyd A Puffer, an American Free Methodist missionary in 1935. Whereas. His will was written at Sabarmati Ashram in Gujarati. The will succeeded the will dated 1921 that was sold at an earlier auction by Mullocks. First Advanced Light First Advanced Light First Advanced Light First Advanced Light First Advanced Light Helicopter squadron Helicopter squadron Helicopter squadron Helicopter squadron Helicopter squadron Indian Navy on 12 November 2013 commissioned the first Advanced Light Weight Helicopters Squadron at Southern Command, Kochi, Kerala. This squadron of Advanced Light Weight Helicopters will help Indian Navy for search and rescue operations during night hours in a more effective manner. The Navy has transformed Dhruv helicopters into an advance search and rescue helicopter according to the requirements. The newly commissioned Squadron named Indian Naval Air Indian Naval Air Indian Naval Air Indian Naval Air Indian Naval Air Squadron (INAS) 322 Squadron (INAS) 322 Squadron (INAS) 322 Squadron (INAS) 322 Squadron (INAS) 322 i s an exclusive group of Dhruv Helicopters, which was designed and manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. Bangalore. The Dhruv helicopters are being operational at INAS Garuda, the Naval Air Station at Kochi since March 2002 and being used for missions including rescue operations. It has proven her mettle in many rescue operations during the last nine years. Dhruv is one among the few helicopters in the world, which is capable of night search and rescue operations over the sea. 3rd BRICS International 3rd BRICS International 3rd BRICS International 3rd BRICS International 3rd BRICS International Competition Conference Competition Conference Competition Conference Competition Conference Competition Conference Prime Minister of India Dr. Manmohan Singh on 21 November 2013 inaugurated the 3rd BRICS International Competition Conference in New Delhi. The theme of the conference is: Competition Competition Competition Competition Competition Services Administration) upgraded it into a tropical depression and named it Santi. It gradually intensified into a Tropical Storm, gaining the international name Nari 9 October 2013. Nari continued to intensify, and reached Category 3 status on 11 October as it moved west towards the Philippines and made landfall in Dingalan, Aurora. Enforcement in BRICS Enforcement in BRICS Enforcement in BRICS Enforcement in BRICS Enforcement in BRICS Countries: Issues and Countries: Issues and Countries: Issues and Countries: Issues and Countries: Issues and Challenges. Challenges. Challenges. Challenges. Challenges. The parti ci pati ng countries are BRICS Nations: Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. The two-day conference is organised by Competition Commission of India (CCI) on behalf of BRICS countries. The aim of the conference is to discuss various issues and challenges in competition enforcement in BRICS countries. The conference would focus on issues and challenges in setting up an effective agency, enforcement related to state owned enterprises, public procurement and creation of competition culture. During the conference, Competition Commission of India will sign a Memorandum of Understanding with European Union on competition issues. Nari Nari Nari Nari Nari Typhoon Nari hit hard the northern part of Philippines on 13 October 2013. The government issued a storm warning for the east of the region. Typhoon Nari is the 19th storm to hit the disaster-prone country. More than 43000 people displaced by the storm. The Philippines are hit by some 20 typhoons each year. A tropical disturbance formed in the Philippine sea from an area of convection. The PAGASA (Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Integrated Processing Integrated Processing Integrated Processing Integrated Processing Integrated Processing Development Scheme (IPDS) Development Scheme (IPDS) Development Scheme (IPDS) Development Scheme (IPDS) Development Scheme (IPDS) The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs on 30 October 2013 approved the launching of a new Integrated Processing Development Scheme (IPDS) with a total cost of 500 crore rupees during the 12th Five Year Plan and to establish four to six brown field projects and three to five green field projects addressing the environmental issues faced by Textile Processing Units. The eligible projects under the scheme would cover the following: (i) Common Effluent Treatment Plant (CETP), (ii) Captive power generation on technology preferably renewable/green technology, (iii) Infrastructure such as storm water management, necessary roads and pipelines for water & wastewater and (iv) Facility for testing and R&D centres. http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 9 4 9 4 9 4 9 4 9 4 http://upscportal.com In the News In the News In the News In the News In the News Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe The Scheme will facilitate the textiles industry become globally competitive using environmentally friendly processing standards and technology and create new processing parks. This scheme will support the upgradation of existing processing clusters/centres specifically in the area of water and waste water management and also encourage research and development work in the textiles processing sector. IAF Aqua Scullers IAF Aqua Scullers IAF Aqua Scullers IAF Aqua Scullers IAF Aqua Scullers Air Marshal HB Rajaram on 13 November 2013 flagged in IAF (Indian Air Force) Aqua Scullers on the successful completion of their white water rafting expedition on the Ganges from Gangotri (at an altitude of 3049 mtrs) to Ganga Sagar in West Bengal. It is worth noticing that the River Ganges is known to be one of the most challenging rivers in the world for White Water rafting. The Himalayan portion of the river from Gangotri (at 3049 mtrs) to Haridwar (at 295 mtrs) is considered one of the most treacherous white water stretches in the world, with forceful Grade IV and V rapids. IAF Aqua Scullers completed the expedition by overcoming challenges in the record time of 16 days. Also, this is the first and the most unique kind of expedition undertaken by the Indian Armed Forces. Milestones Achieved During Milestones Achieved During Milestones Achieved During Milestones Achieved During Milestones Achieved During the Expedi ti on the Expedi ti on the Expedi ti on the Expedi ti on the Expedi ti on This was the longest Rafting expedition ever in India and covered 3000 km. It took shortest duration ever to raft down the entire length of Ganga. The IAF expedition took 16 days with larger distance traversed while the ITBP expedition took 53 days. The Indian Armed Forces completed the longest non stop rafting at a stretch in a single day. On 23 October 2013, the team rafted continuously for 15 hrs from Jalalpur (near Garmukteshwar) to Rajghat (near Anupshahar) in Uttar Pradesh. In the meanwhile, the IAF also covered the longest distance by the raft in a single day. On 3 November 2013, more than 300 kms were covered from Ramakantapura iron bridge to Barrackpore in West Bengal. What is White Water Rafting? What is White Water Rafting? What is White Water Rafting? What is White Water Rafting? What is White Water Rafting? Rafting is primarily a challenging recreational outdoor activity by making use of a raft in order to navigate the river or a water body. Rafting or White Water Rafting is usually done on white water or the different degree of rough water. White Water is basically formed in the rapid when the gradient of a river increases so much that it disturbs the laminar flow to create turbulence. White Water Rafting became a popular leisure sport since mid 1970s. It is the extreme adventure sport and can also be fatal. Phailin Phailin Phailin Phailin Phailin The cyclonic storm Phailin in the second week of October 2013 hit the Andaman and Nicobar islands and moved northwestwards early this morning and presently lay centred about 800 km South East of Paradip in Odisha. It is expected to reach the coast of Odisha and Andhra Pradesh in the next 48 to 72 hours. The system will intensify into a severe cyclonic storm during the next 12 hours. Fishermen have been asked not to venture into sea and those gone deep inside the sea have been asked to return to the coast. Meanwhile the Odisha government has issued a high alert and cancelled the Dusshera holidays of employees in 14 districts. It has been decided to deploy Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force teams in the 14 districts. The State government has also asked all the cyclone-prone district authorities to stock up food and relief materials at cyclone shelters. International Heavy Minerals International Heavy Minerals International Heavy Minerals International Heavy Minerals International Heavy Minerals Conference 2013 Conference 2013 Conference 2013 Conference 2013 Conference 2013 The 9th International Heavy Minerals Conference (HMC 2013) was held in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh from 27 to 29 November 2013. The biennial International conference is ninth in a series of conferences that focus on the heavy minerals industry. This International conference was held for the first time in India by the Mining Engineers Association of India (MEAI) in collaboration with and support from the Government of India, other professional organisations and industry. The Conference theme is: The Conference theme is: The Conference theme is: The Conference theme is: The Conference theme is: Overcoming New Challenges. Overcoming New Challenges. Overcoming New Challenges. Overcoming New Challenges. Overcoming New Challenges. The aim of HMC 2013 was to discuss the technical, managerial, business opportunities and challenges facing the sector worldwide. Delegates attended the conference including from Australia, Canada, Africa, US, China, Vietnam, Srilanka and Europe. The earlier editions of the conference were held in diverse places as Cape Town (SA), Jacksonville (US) Fermantle & Perth(Australia) etc. The first conference held in Kwazulu Natal (SA) and the previous conference held in Perth. http://upscportal.com 9 5 9 5 9 5 9 5 9 5 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com In The News In The News In The News In The News In The News Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe BrahMos Supersonic Cruise BrahMos Supersonic Cruise BrahMos Supersonic Cruise BrahMos Supersonic Cruise BrahMos Supersonic Cruise Missile Missile Missile Missile Missile India on 18 November 2013 successfully test-fired the advanced version of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile from the Pokhran test firing range in Rajasthan. The block III variant of BrahMos with deep penetration capability was test launched from a Mobile Autonomous Launcher (MAL). The missile after launch followed the predetermined trajectory and successfully pierced the designated concrete structure. The 290-km range BrahMos flies at a speed of 2.8 Mach and carries a conventional warhead of up to 300 kg. The missile can be launched from multiple platforms including land, sea, sub-sea and air. Both the Army and Navy have already inducted the missile in service, while the air-version of the weapon is scheduled to be flight tested by the IAF soon. Agni -1 Agni -1 Agni -1 Agni -1 Agni -1 India successfully test fired the indigenous Agni-1 missile from Wheeler Island off Odisha coast on 8 November 2013. The user trial of the 12 ton bomb was conducted from Chandipur in Balasore district of Odisha. The surface to surface missile Agni-1 was launched from a mobile launcher. It can travel a distance of 700 kilometers. The 15 meter long missile can carry a payload of 1000 kilogram. It has a specialized navigation system that ensures it to reach the target with a high degree of accuracy and precision. Agni-I was developed by the advance systems laboratory, the premier missile development laboratory of the DRDO and was collaborated with the Defence Research Development Laboratory and the Research Centre Imarat and integrated by the Bharat Dynamics Limited, Hyderabad. The sophisticated Agni-1 was for the last time was successfully carried out on 12 December 2012 from the same place. Cyclone Lehar Cyclone Lehar Cyclone Lehar Cyclone Lehar Cyclone Lehar The cyclonic storm Lehar Lehar Lehar Lehar Lehar on 27 November 2013 hit the Andhra Pradesh coast and caused severe damage in the coastal region. The tropical cyclone Lehar was centered about 520 km east-southeast of Machillipatnam and 470 km southeast of Kakinada in Bay of Bengal Bay of Bengal Bay of Bengal Bay of Bengal Bay of Bengal. The nine coastal districts of Andhra Pradesh are highly affected in the region and coastal area of Odisha also affected. After cycl one Phailin Phailin Phailin Phailin Phailin a nd cycl one Helen Helen Helen Helen Helen, this is the third severe cyclone within a month. Mumbai Mumbai Mumbai Mumbai Mumbai As per the data released by the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) on 6 November 2013, Mumbai emerged as the city with highest internet penetration in India. Bangalore which is considered as the information technology (IT) capital of the country was the sixth in the list of internet penetration with 3.8 million internet users. Mumbai has 12 million internet users, followed by Delhi with 8.1 million users and Hyderabad with 4.7 million users. Kolkata emerged as the city with highest growth of internet users in 2013. The city registered a 47 percent rise in internet adoption. Ahmedabad registered the lowest growth rate among the top eight cities at 26 percent. Services Conclave 2013 Services Conclave 2013 Services Conclave 2013 Services Conclave 2013 Services Conclave 2013 The Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Anand Sharma inaugurated Services Conclave 2013 on 12 November 2013. During the occasion, Anand Sharma highlighted that services trade is an essential ingredient to economic growth, sustainable development and contributes prominently to employment generation. It is worth noticing that 80 percent of Indias total exports are dominated by the high skilled services including software business services, financial services and communication services. Also, exports from IT&ITES in the year 2012 stood at 1.40 lakh crores Rupees, registering a growth of over 70 percent over the year 2011. http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 9 6 9 6 9 6 9 6 9 6 http://upscportal.com In the News In the News In the News In the News In the News Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe About Services Conclave About Services Conclave About Services Conclave About Services Conclave About Services Conclave 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 Services Conclave 2013 has the focus on few select sectors that have the potential for Indias service sector export strategy. The Services Conclave 2013 will deliberate on a roadmap for augmenting exports of various services so as not only to diversify India s services exports but also to position India as a key player in world services trade. The Conclave is organised by the Department of Commerce in collaboration with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) with support from the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) and Centre for WTO Studies (CWTOS). The primary aim of the Conclave will be to address issues relating to the challenges and opportunities of Services sector exports for India especially in the specific sectors of logistics, professional services (Architectural services, accountancy, management consultancy services), IT/ITeS, telecom services, tourism, health and medical services and creativity and entertainment services. Sel f i e Sel f i e Sel f i e Sel f i e Sel f i e The word Selfie Selfie Selfie Selfie Selfie was named as word of the year by Oxford Dictionaries on 19 November 2013. Selfie Selfie Selfie Selfie Selfie, (Noun) means: a photograph that one has taken of oneself, typically one taken with a smartphone or webcam and uploaded to a social media website. The word has evolved from a niche social media tag into a mainstream term for a self- portrait photograph. Other shortlisted words included twerk twerk twerk twerk twerk- a raunchy dance move performed by Miley Cyrus - and binge-watch binge-watch binge-watch binge-watch binge-watch - meaning watching lots of TV. Schmeat Schmeat Schmeat Schmeat Schmeat, meaning a form of meat synthetically produced from biological tissue, was also a contender. Selfie was added to OxfordDictionaries.com in August 2013, although the Word of the Year selection is made irrespective of whether the candidates are already included in an Oxford dictionary. The other words that were shortlisted include: bedroom tax bedroom tax bedroom tax bedroom tax bedroom tax, meaning a reduction in the amount of housing benefit paid to a claimant if the propert y; bitcoin bitcoin bitcoin bitcoin bitcoin a digital currency in which transactions can be performed without the need for a central bank and olinguito olinguito olinguito olinguito olinguito, a small furry mammal found in mountain forests in Colombia and Ecuador. Dhanush Dhanush Dhanush Dhanush Dhanush India on 23 November 2013 successfully test-fired its nuclear- capable Dhanush ballistic missile from a naval ship off Odisha coast. The surface-to-surface surface-to-surface surface-to-surface surface-to-surface surface-to-surface Dhanush, a naval variant of Indias indigenously developed Prithvi Prithvi Prithvi Prithvi Prithvi missile, was test fired from a location at Bay of Bengal by the Srategic Force Command of the defence force. The single-stage, liquid propelled Dhanush has already been inducted into the armed services. It is one of the five missiles developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation under the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme. Dhanush missile is capable of carrying conventional as well as nuclear payload of 500 to 1000 kg and hit both land and sea-based targets. Nobel Memorial Wall Nobel Memorial Wall Nobel Memorial Wall Nobel Memorial Wall Nobel Memorial Wall Delhi Metro Rail Corporation and the Embassy of Sweden on 9 November 2013 jointly unveiled a Nobel Memorial Wall Nobel Memorial Wall Nobel Memorial Wall Nobel Memorial Wall Nobel Memorial Wall at Rajiv Chowk metro station, Delhi. The aim of exhibiting this wall is to spread awareness about all the Nobel Laureates of India, with a focus on Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore. The wall at the Rajiv Chowk metro station was unveiled by Delhi Metro Rail Corporations Managing Director Mangu Singh and the Ambassador of Sweden Harald Sandberg. The wall has been created as part of celebrations of Sweden India Nobel Memorial Week that started on 8 November 2013. This year(2013) the Nobel Memorial Week is dedicated to Rabindranath Tagores centenary of winning the Nobel Prize in Literature. The Nobel Memorial Wall has a bust of Tagore against the original text of his Nobel Prize nomination, which has been procured by the Swedish Embassy from the Swedish Academy. The Nobel Memorial Wall also has the portraits of the seven Nobel Laureates from India: Rabindranath Tagore, CV Raman, Dr Hargobind Khorana, Mother Teresa, Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar, Amartya Sen and Venkatraman Ramakrishnan and provided details about their contribution to society and a panel each on Alfred Nobel and the Nobel Prizes. Hawk 132 Hawk 132 Hawk 132 Hawk 132 Hawk 132 Indian Navy on 6 November 2013 inducted the fourth generation advanced jet trainer aircraft Hawk 132 at a ceremony held at the Naval http://upscportal.com 9 7 9 7 9 7 9 7 9 7 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com In The News In The News In The News In The News In The News Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe Air Station INS Dega at Visakhapatnam. Hawk 132 is an aircraft operating with over 24 countries around the world. The aircraft was built by the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) with Transfer of Technology from M/s British Aerospace, UK. Hawk 132 is equipped with advanced and reliable navigation systems and it is able to deploy an impressive array of weaponry including air-to-air missiles, air-to-ground rockets, bombs and guns. The HOTAS (Hands on Throttle and Stick) system on the control column enables the pilot to make weapon selections without maneuvering his hands. The Indian Air Force is also operating these aircraft for training of their pilots. The induction of the sophisticated aircraft will boost the training of combat pilots in the Navy for helping them learn advanced fighter flying. Constitution Day in India Constitution Day in India Constitution Day in India Constitution Day in India Constitution Day in India Constitution Day was observed across India on 26 November 2013 to honour the Constitution of India. The Constitution of India was adopted by the Constituent Assembly on 26 November 1949, which came into force on 26 January 1950. The Constitution of India is a supreme law of India, which lays down the framework that defines the political principles, establishes the structure, procedures, powers and duties of Government institution. It also sets the fundamental rights, directive principles, and the duties of citizens. Being one of the longest constitution in the world, which contains 448 articles in 22 parts, 12 schedules and 118 amendments. Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar is regarded as the father of the Indian Constitution. Kannur Kannur Kannur Kannur Kannur Union Minister for Rural Development Jairam Ramesh on 1 November 2013 declared Kannur in Kerala as the first zero-landless district in the country. Kannur District Authorities provided land to as many as 11118 beneficiaries, including 85 families belonging to the Scheduled Tribes category. The Zero Landless programme The Zero Landless programme The Zero Landless programme The Zero Landless programme The Zero Landless programme in Kerala in Kerala in Kerala in Kerala in Kerala The prestigious Zero Landless programme of the United Democratic Front was flagged off by Congress president Sonia Gandhi in October 2013. The Zero Landless programme envisages distribution of three cents of land each to 243928 families identified across the State. About Kannur District About Kannur District About Kannur District About Kannur District About Kannur District Kannur District is one of the 14 districts in the state of Kerala, India. The town of Kannur is the district headquarters. Its total area is 2966 km2. Kannur district is bound by the Western Ghats in the East (Coorg district of Karnataka State), Kozhikkode and Wayanad districts, in the South, Lakshadeep sea in the West and Kasaragod, the northern most district of Kerala, in the North. Czech Castles Czech Castles Czech Castles Czech Castles Czech Castles The Union Culture Minister Chandresh Kumari Katoch along with Jan Kohout, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic and Jiri Balvin, Minister of Culture of the Czech Republic, on 7 November 2013 jointly inaugurated an exhibition titled Czech Castles. It is for the first time that this exhibition has been organised in India in collaboration with the Archaeological Survey of India and the Ministry of Culture, Government of India by the National Museum of the Czech Republic and the Embassy of the Czech Republic, New Delhi. It is important to note that a cultural agreement was signed between India and Czech Republic in the year 1959. At the occasion of inauguration of the exhibition, a Memorandum of Understanding was also signed between the ASI and the National Museum of the Czech Republic at the Red Fort for promotion of cultural exchange and bilateral cooperation. The MoU will form the basis for more active cooperation between the two institutes. About the Czech Castles About the Czech Castles About the Czech Castles About the Czech Castles About the Czech Castles Exhi bi ti on Exhi bi ti on Exhi bi ti on Exhi bi ti on Exhi bi ti on The Czech Castle architecture is an important part of the cultural heritage of the Czech Republic. The Exhibition presents a selection of 37 most interesting castles and chateaux of Bohemia and Moravia, two of the historic areas that make up the Czech state. The criterion for the selection of the localities has been their historical significance as well as their architectural, artistic, and historical value. The exhibition is accompanied by rich cultural program consisting of film shows, art exhibitions, music presentations and other events that will together celebrate the Czech-India Cultural Year 2014. The Exhibition will stay at the Red Fort, Delhi till January 2014 and then tour various other cities of India. After Delhi, the exhibition will be presented in Leh (Leh Palace, June-July 2014), Kolkata (Currency Building September October 2014), Mumbai (Nehru Science Centre, November 2014) and Goa Panaji (Kala Academy, December 2014 January 2015). Haiyan Haiyan Haiyan Haiyan Haiyan Typhoon Haiyan Typhoon Haiyan Typhoon Haiyan Typhoon Haiyan Typhoon Haiyan made a landfall in northern Vietnam, close to the China border on 10 November 2013. It is the super typhoon which killed thousands of people in Philippines. The super typhoon http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 9 8 9 8 9 8 9 8 9 8 http://upscportal.com In the News In the News In the News In the News In the News Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe destroyed large number of towns across Philippines and killed over 10000 people, according to the Philippines authorities. This was declared as the deadliest recorded natural disaster of Philippines. The United States, in the meanwhile, declared military help to Philippines. It is important to note that the Philippines had earlier endured a range of natural disasters such as deadly typhoons, volcano eruptions, earthquakes and other similar disasters. Philippines is situated along the typhoon belt and also the Ring of Fire, a vast Pacific Ocean region where a range of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions take place. Until Typhoon Haiyan, the deadliest natural disaster was in the year 1976 when the tsunami of magnitude 7.9 had erupted and devastated the Moro Gulf on the southern Philippine island of Mindanao. 19th Kolkata International 19th Kolkata International 19th Kolkata International 19th Kolkata International 19th Kolkata International Film Festival Film Festival Film Festival Film Festival Film Festival The 19th Kolkata International Film Festival was inaugurated on 10 November 2013 with the screening of noted director, Rituparna Ghoshs Taak Jhaank. The festival was inaugurated by legendary Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan along with Shah Rukh Khan, Kamal Haasan and other renowned actors. Highlights of the 19th Highlights of the 19th Highlights of the 19th Highlights of the 19th Highlights of the 19th Kolkata International Film Kolkata International Film Kolkata International Film Kolkata International Film Kolkata International Film Festival (KIFF) Festival (KIFF) Festival (KIFF) Festival (KIFF) Festival (KIFF) The 19th Kolkata International Film Festival is an 8-day film festival during which 189 films from 63 countries will be screened. The focus of the 19th Kolkata International Film Festival will be on South East Asian Films. During the festival, eight films of Rituparna Ghosh, including Unishe April, Dahan, The Last Lear and Chitrangada, will be screened as a tribute to the director who passed away in 2013. KIFF is the accredited film festival of the International Federation of Film Producers Association, Paris (FIAPF). West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced that the 19th Kolkata International Film Festival will mark the Golden Jubilee of Bengali cinema. The theme song of the 19th Kolkata International Film Festival featured lyrics from legendary singer Manna Deys popular Bengali film Jibone Ki Paabo Na. Manna Dey passed away in October 2013. Also, the works of Malayalam filmmaker and Dadasaheb Phalke Award winner Adoor Gopalakrishnan will be screened during the festival. Special tributes shall be paid to international actors and directors including American actor Burt Lancaster, Australia- born American filmmaker Billy Wilder and Japanese filmmaker Nagisa Oshima. In the meanwhile, the State Government also launched a special medi-claim scheme for all the technicians of the Tollywood film industry. Karen Karen Karen Karen Karen Tropical Storm Karen on 5 October 2013 touched the US Gulf Coast, with forecasters warning of weekend flooding and heavy rainfall in several states, including Louisiana and Florida. As the system swirled about 385 kilometres south- southwest of the mouth of the Mississippi River, authorities urged residents to stock up on essentials. Florida Governor Rick Scott declared a state of emergency in 18 counties to enable the potential deployment of resources as needed. A tropical storm watch, meanwhile, was issued for areas including metropolitan New Orleans, battered by Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Heritage Documentation Heritage Documentation Heritage Documentation Heritage Documentation Heritage Documentation The National Museum Institute (NMI), New Delhi on 22 October 2013 launched a project on researching and cataloguing various forms of performing and fine arts of the country. The main aim of the project is developing an inventory on the intangible cultural heritage from across the country. Pilot projects Pilot projects Pilot projects Pilot projects Pilot projects Under this program, pilot projects were already began on 17 October 2013 at two regions of north India- 1) Western Uttar Pradesh and 2) Ladakh. The institute also organised a community-led event at Sikhera village off Meerut and Gya on the highest plateau in Jammu and Kashmir. The events in both places were held on 17 October 2013 coinciding with the 10th anniversary of signing of UNESCOs Paris convention for safeguarding intangible cultural heritage. The institute also engaged high-school students from the region and facilitated their interaction with the elders of the socio-ethnic belt. The basic aim is to make these students aware of and interested in the activity and creating an opportunity to learn something from their cultural environment. At Sikhera, NMI organised a programme of live creation of the living tradition of Sanjhi - a set of design patterns of traditional motifs created for various ceremonies, festivals and life-cycle occasions. Sanjhi is a living traditional art form prevalent not just in Western Uttar Pradesh but in other parts of the country as well. National Conference on National Conference on National Conference on National Conference on National Conference on Intellectual Disability Intellectual Disability Intellectual Disability Intellectual Disability Intellectual Disability The Union Minister for Social Justice & Empowerment Kumari Selja inaugurated the National Conference http://upscportal.com 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com In The News In The News In The News In The News In The News Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe on Intellectual Disability, jointly organised by the Department of Disability Affairs, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment and National Institute for Mentally Handicapped, Secunderabad, on 7 November 2013. About the National About the National About the National About the National About the National Conference on Intellectual Conference on Intellectual Conference on Intellectual Conference on Intellectual Conference on Intellectual Di sabi l i ty Di sabi l i ty Di sabi l i ty Di sabi l i ty Di sabi l i ty The National Conference on Intellectual Disability has special relevance in the present context because of the complex nature of problems. Mental retardation is a complex condition which affects the development of cognitive functions, motor functions, social and communication skills of the Individual. The findings of the conference would be useful for ensuring speedy empowerment of persons with Intellectual Disabilities. This is the first such conference and the Department has planned similar national level conferences of National Institutes to address the issues relating to the sector. Some Important Facts Some Important Facts Some Important Facts Some Important Facts Some Important Facts It is important to note that as per 2001 Census out of the total number of persons with disabilities of about 2.19 crores, the number of persons with mental disabilities was about 23 lakhs. The causative factors of intellectual disabilities have their influence in the pre- conceptual, pre-natal, peri- natal and post-natal phases of the life cycle of a child. Intellectual disability can also occur due to hereditary reasons. India is a signatory to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD). About the National Institute About the National Institute About the National Institute About the National Institute About the National Institute for Mentally Handicapped for Mentally Handicapped for Mentally Handicapped for Mentally Handicapped for Mentally Handicapped The National Institute for the Mentally Handicapped (NIMH), Secunderabad was established in the year 1984. The primary objective of NIHM is to cater to the needs of Persons with Mental Retardation. NIMH has facilities for providing comprehensive therapeutic services for children with intellectual disabilities right from infancy stage to any age level. In order to meet the demand for the trained professionals NIMH is involved in manpower development by conducting long term academic programs from Diploma to M.Phil level. NIMH is also involved in research and developmental activities. The results of the research and developmental activities are disseminated through their published books, pamphlets, leaflets, videos, posters and radio-spots. Pragati Pragati Pragati Pragati Pragati India developed a new tactical surface-to-surface missile Pragati which has a range between 60-170 km. The missile is on offer to Indias friendly countries. The Pragati missile is based on the Prahaar missile and it has been developed by the DRDO for the Army. It was put on display at a defence exhibition at the Seoul International Aerospace and Defence Exhibition (ADEX 2013). Besides Pragati tactical missile, DRDO showcased, Akash missile system and Tejas LCA and its variants. The LCA is a DRDO project which remains to be completed and the aircraft has not been inducted by the IAF so far. ADEX 2013 hosted more than 300 companies from 33 nations. DRDOs participation in ADX 2013 commemorates the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and South Korea. World Toilet Day World Toilet Day World Toilet Day World Toilet Day World Toilet Day The World Toilet Day (WTD) was observed across the world on 19 November 2013. In the world about a third of the worlds people dont have an access to a decent toilet. As per the United Nations about 2.5 billion people do not have an access to adequate sanitation and about 1 billion people practice open defecation, which contributes many diseases. Each year, more than 800000 children under 5 die from diarrhea, many due to poor sanitation. In 2001 WTO declared 19 November World Toilet Day (WTD). It is celebrated in over 19 countries with over 51 events being hosted by various water and sanitation advocates on this day. 33rd India 33rd India 33rd India 33rd India 33rd India International Trade Fair International Trade Fair International Trade Fair International Trade Fair International Trade Fair The 33rd India International Trade Fair began at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi on 14 November 2013. http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 100 100 100 100 100 http://upscportal.com In the News In the News In the News In the News In the News Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe President Pranab Mukherjee inaugurated the India International Trade Fair (IITF). The trade fair aimed to spur international trade while highlighting Indias economic growth. The Theme of IITF 2013 i s Inclusive Growth. Inclusive Growth. Inclusive Growth. Inclusive Growth. Inclusive Growth. The 14-day event scheduled from 14 to 27 th November 2013. About 6000 exhibitors including 250 from foreign countries are participating in the fair. This year Japan is a partner country and South Africa, the focus country. While Bihar is a partner state, Odisha is the focus state. Kenichi Ito Kenichi Ito Kenichi Ito Kenichi Ito Kenichi Ito Kenichi Ito, a Japanese man broke his own Guinness World Record for the 100 meter dash on 14 November 2013. He runs on his arms and legs broke. ITO of 30 years finished the dash in 16.87 seconds by saving about 30 seconds of his 2012 run of 17.47 seconds. Sydney Sydney Sydney Sydney Sydney The Regional Pravasi Regional Pravasi Regional Pravasi Regional Pravasi Regional Pravasi Bhartiya Divas Bhartiya Divas Bhartiya Divas Bhartiya Divas Bhartiya Divas was offi ci al l y launched on 11 November 2013 in Sydney, Australia by New South Wales, Premier Barry OFarrell and Overseas Indian Affairs Minister Vayalar Ravi. The 2013 convention is the first to be held in Australia, marking the contribution the overseas Indian community makes to the development of India. The conventions objective objective objective objective objective is to link the vast Indian diaspora and other parts of the Asia-Pacific region with India. The 2013 Convention will be the seventh seventh seventh seventh seventh such conference held outside India. The Regional Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is organised by the High Commission of India and the Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs. Participation in the convention is expected from all states and territories of Australia and from neighbouring countries, including Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Hong Kong, Papua New Guinea, New Zealand, Fiji and the Pacific Islands.
You will be provided current affairs on various important topics on a weekly basis. Important national and international news from various sources at a single platform for your convenience. Each and every topic will be given point wise , making it easier to grasp. Very handy when it comes to various competitive exams.. Planning Commission Ministry of External Affairs National Portal of India National International Economy India And The World Sports In The News Science and Technology Burning Issues (Editorials From Different Newspapers) You will get (52 Issues) PDF Only no Hard Copy http://upscportal.com/civilservices/current-affairs/weekly-update
http://upscportal.com 101 101 101 101 101 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be Institutionalising Freedom Institutionalising Freedom Institutionalising Freedom Institutionalising Freedom Institutionalising Freedom India has repeatedly seen incidents where the screening of films, certified by the Central Board of Film Certification, has been halted. Extremist groups threaten public order, and claim community sentiments have been offended. Rather than take on such forces, State governments have often caved in, unwilling to invest political and administrative capital in the protection of the freedom of expression. Earlier this year, in the wake of the controversy over the ban on Vishwaroopam , the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting set up a committee under Justice Mukul Mudgal to revisit the entire legislative framework. The report has now been made public. It recommends a new procedure for appointments to advisory panels, which actually view films. It is on the basis of their recommendations that the board issues certification. Unfortunately, membership to such panels is often distributed as political patronage. For certification, the committee has adopted two guiding principles protection of artistic and creative freedom, and remaining socially responsible and sensitive to values and standards of society. But the danger is that such phrases can be used to stifle free speech. But it is with regard to the governments power to ban films that the committee comes up with a new set of recommendations. It upholds the principle that exhibition of a film already certified shall not be suspended. This is in line with the landmark 1989 judgment in the case of S. Rangarajan v Jagivan Ram i nvol vi ng the fi l m, Ore Oru Gramathile , where the Supreme Court laid down that freedom of expression cannot be suppressed on account of threat of demonstration and processions or threats of violence. The committee also concludes that the Central government is the sole repository of legislative power and executive action regarding exhibition of films. In instances where a public exhibition leads to a breach of public order or can potentially do so, the Centre can the committee suggests order the suspension of the exhibition. While allowing such orders, the committee makes the point that it has inserted additional caveats. It has taken away the power from State governments the power to ban films. It has stipulated that film producers be given an opportunity to explain their side of the story first. Such orders, it says, are justified only in the case of threats to public order, not merely peace. It should be passed only after public screening and not prior to intended screening. It has also expanded the jurisdiction of the Film Certification Appellate Tribunal. While the committee appears to invest excessive faith in the Centres judgment and willingness to stand up to extremist forces, the recommendations are positive and a step towards institutionalising freedom and checking unwarranted censorship. Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Rediscovering Patel Rediscovering Patel Rediscovering Patel Rediscovering Patel Rediscovering Patel In the past few days, political parties have vied with each other to lay claim to the political legacy of Indias first Home Minister, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and to build their own partisan narratives around the beliefs that are thought to have defined him. As elections approach, the re-imagining of Patel as one of Indias strongest leaders is clearly intended to shore up the images of the respective leaders invoking his memory. The Congress, led by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh himself, has claimed ownership of Patel on the ground that essentially, he was a loyal Congressman. The Bharatiya Janata S E L E C T E D
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J O U R N A L S http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 102 102 102 102 102 http://upscportal.com Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be Party under Narendra Modi has not just recast Patel in its own image but has sought to project a historically unsound thesis that there was a divide between the two greats of pre- and post- Independence India Patel, and the first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. The historical record is quite to the contrary. Both leaders held each other in the highest esteem. They disagreed on the execution of certain policies but they placed the interests of the newly-born nation above everything else, and repeatedly reaffirmed their faith in each other. Unfortunately, current-day politics thrives on dramatic stereotypes designed to excite the popular imagination, which inevitably sacrifices the nuances and subtleties of the real historical picture. Mr. Modi has conflated Patels role in integrating India into a united, independent nation with projections for how the country might have fared had he been at the helm instead of Nehru. Given that Patel died in 1950, such theoretical speculation is futile. Patel had real concerns that the welding together of the states the stimulus for which he admitted has come from above rather than below would not hold, leading to the danger of collapse and chaos, according to V.P. Menon, Patels close confidant. It is a tribute to that remarkable nation-builder that the Indian Union has not just survived but is today a force to reckon with globally, as a leading democracy. The BJPs political bid to reposition Patels place in the Indian pantheon of heroes is of a piece with its angst at the perceived dominance of the Nehru dynasty. It is indisputable that more than half of all Centrally sponsored schemes and programmes are named after one or another member of the Congresss first family. Yet, the question arises if the only way to correct this imbalance is by building the tallest statue anywhere of the Sardar. Had he been alive today, Patel would have been distressed at this showmanship, especially knowing the objective of the exercise was to elevate him over Nehru with whom, as he noted in a letter, he shared mutual love and regard. Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Many strides in food security Many strides in food security Many strides in food security Many strides in food security Many strides in food security This is one of the most significant years in Indias agricultural and national history. At Independence in 1947, we were suffering from acute food shortages that led to the introduction of food rationing. Later, we started depending on imported food, largely under the PL480 programme of the United States, although the countrys population then was only a little over 300 million. In 1966, the year Indira Gandhi became Prime Minister, India had to import nearly 10 million tonnes of foodgrains to ward off a famine. Building a reserve Building a reserve Building a reserve Building a reserve Building a reserve In the latter half of 1966, Dr. Vikram Sarabhai and I went to meet Indira Gandhi to discuss issues relating to the use of remote sensing to map coconut root wilt disease in Kerala. She turned to me and asked: How soon can we build a foodgrain reserve of 10 million tonnes? It was clear she was worried about dependence on imported food to feed our population, a majority of them farmers and farm labourers. Also, it became clear to me later, that Indira Gandhi was convinced an independent foreign policy could be built only on a foundation of food security based on home-grown food. This led to her determination to achieve food self- sufficiency as soon as possible, and to always maintain substantial grain reserves. The relationship between food self-reliance and national sovereignty became evident when several important decisions became possible only because we had built up sufficient foodgrain reserves. Thus, Indias assistance to Bangladesh in its liberation struggle, help to Vietnam to avoid famine following the unification of the country in 1975, and its ability to conduct nuclear implosion tests at Pokhran, were all possible only because it had become food self-reliant in the early 1970s. General Vo Nguyen Giap, who was largely responsible for Vietnam gaining freedom from France, and being unified, would tell me whenever I met him in Hanoi in the early 1980s, that Vietnam owes much to Indira Gandhi for saving it from widespread famine soon after unification. Indira Gandhi asked me to visit Vietnam in 1975 to develop a long-term strategy for food self-reliance. This led to India setting up a Rice Research Institute in the Mekong delta to assist in harnessing the untapped yield reservoir in rice in the delta. Today, Vietnam is a major rice exporter. The foundation laid by Indira Gandhi in the 1960s has now made it possible to make access to food a legal right. The transition from the ship-to- mouth existence of the 1960s to the Right to Food with home-grown food commitment, as enshrined in the National Food Security Act of 2013, is a historic one. There is, however, no time to relax. The monsoon and the market are two major determinants of the fate of farmers, and we should do everything possible to insulate them from the adverse impact of both climate change and price volatility. The pathway to achieve these twin goals has been laid out in the reports of the National Commission on Farmers, submitted during 2004-06. Instrument for integration Instrument for integration Instrument for integration Instrument for integration Instrument for integration Agriculture is a powerful instrument for national integration. Wheat and rice produced by Punjab farmers help feed many parts of India. Farmers everywhere have a common need, namely, opportunity for assured and remunerative marketing. They are willing to share their knowledge and expertise freely without thought of intellectual property rights. Striking progress in improving the yield of crops in the early 1960s came from a shift in plant breeding strategy involving attention to the performance of populations rather than of individual plants. This emphasis on population performance led to a quantum jump in the yield of crops. Similarly, we need to assess our progress by using population performance as a yardstick to measure excellence. National integration is our heritage. Sel f-suffi ci ency Sel f-suffi ci ency Sel f-suffi ci ency Sel f-suffi ci ency Sel f-suffi ci ency In mid-1968, Paul and Anne Ehrlich wrote in their book The Population Bomb : Sometime between 1970 and 1985 the world will undergo vast famines hundreds of millions of people are http://upscportal.com 103 103 103 103 103 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be going to starve to death. That is, they will starve to death unless plague, thermonuclear war, or some other agent kills them first. The United States should announce that it will no longer ship food to countries such as India, where dispassionate analysis indicates that the unbalance between food and population is hopeless. Almost at the same time, in July 1968, Indira Gandhi released a special stamp titled the Wheat Revolution, thereby announcing that India had embarked upon the path of self-reliance in foodgrains through a revolutionary change in agricultural technology and policy. It is therefore a great privilege to receive an award bearing her name. Also, the purpose of the award is an area dear to my heart: a nation that is united in its commitment to the principles of non-violence, secularism, social and gender equity, self-reliance and love and respect for all. India has become the first nation in the world to make access to food a legal right. The right to information can be implemented with the help of files, but the right to food can be implemented only with the help of farmers. Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Penetrating the Penetrating the Penetrating the Penetrating the Penetrating the Web of terror networks Web of terror networks Web of terror networks Web of terror networks Web of terror networks The deadly explosions that struck a Bharatiya Janata Party rally in Patna on October 27 confirmed that terrorism will remain on top of the agenda for an over-stretched Indian police and a heavily burdened Intelligence Bureau (IB). Investigations have revealed the involvement of at least six individuals in the planting of 18 explosives (of which only seven exploded) in Gandhi Maidan. The Indian Mujahideen (IM) is the leading suspect for the daring attack. Its intentions seem clear: convert the rally into a mass fatality event, and spread fear and panic with a blatant message to the security apparatus that the IM is a force to contend with. To the credit of the Bihar Police, some operatives from the IMs Ranchi cell one of its newly unearthed field entities have been arrested in connection with the Patna bombing. Unfortunately, arresting IM operatives does not appear to prevent the outfit from launching terror attacks with relative impunity, and in fact could be a sign that further attacks are in the works. In the forthcoming book Indian Mujahideen: Computational Analysis and Public Policy (Springer 2014), the four writers here were able to use data mining algorithms developed at the University of Maryland to identify broad conditions that were predictive of different types of terror acts carried out by the IM. Over the years, the IM has consistently carried out simultaneous attacks with multiple devices within a few months of the arrests or deaths of its top operatives. Following the arrest of Yasin Bhatkal in late August 2013, this behavioural rule led us to predict that the IM was likely to launch attacks in the last quarter of 2013 a prediction that has unfortunately come true with the Patna attacks. The prospect of a renewed IM terror campaign is dismaying because the next few months are going to be dominated by heightened political acrimony related to the general election and the inevitable use of valuable police resources. In contrast, organisations such as the IM and their allies (such as the Lashkar-e-Taiba) and sponsors (such as the Pakistani Inter-Services Intelligence) would remain focussed on creating maximum damage for Indias governments. Soft targets Soft targets Soft targets Soft targets Soft targets A striking feature of all IM attacks is the choice of soft targets such as crowded markets. These have caused havoc, killing hundreds of innocent civilians. The IMs trademark has been multi-pronged attacks that maximise casualties. These attacks, such as the near-simultaneous bombing of three courthouses in different cities across Uttar Pradesh in 2007, require substantial coordination and organisational skills. After the U.P. attacks, the IM terrorised India with a string of bombings throughout 2008. In an attack in Ahmedabad in July 2008, the IM set off nearly 20 low-intensity bombs across the city, and when crowds gathered at the City Trauma Centre, it detonated a car bomb, killing dozens. Since then, the outfit has carried out at least 10 forays, including the 2010 attack on the German Bakery in Pune (possibly in conjunction with LeT) that killed 17, a triple bombing in Mumbai in 2011 that killed 27, and in February 2013, a double bombing in Hyderabad that killed 17. There have been a few significant IM arrests in recent months. In a coup for Indias security agencies, two of IMs top operatives, Yasin Bhatkal and Asadullah Akhtar, were captured. Unfortunately, these arrests do not seem to have caused a major dent on the IM, which retains its skill in planning operations with deadly precision and efficiency. The serial blasts in Patna, which were strikingly similar to the twin blasts in Dilsukhnagar (Hyderabad), on February 21, and the July 7 Bodh Gaya blasts this year, illustrate the IMs capabilities. These repeated terrorist successes here and elsewhere can, unfortunately, only help to boost the morale of groups like the IM. This raises the overarching issue of how to check terrorism in India. It is more than clear that the IM is one of the most active terrorist groups in India. Its achievements have been disproportionate to its actual strength or marginal popular appeal. Predicting exactly when and where an attack will occur is a task that cannot be consistently done. However, the authors detailed study of the IM, based on a clinical analysis of carefully curated data, and employing the big data analytic techniques (similar to techniques used by the Amazons and eBays of the world), is now starting to pay its first dividends in understanding when the IM will launch attacks and what types of targets it will select. The study projects an ominous scenario. Periods during which Indian- Pakistani diplomatic relations begin to warm are followed by internal IM conferences and chatter, a month or so later. These high-level internal meetings are seen as necessary to plan the IMs signature multi-pronged bombing campaigns. These meetings are then followed by ramped up collaboration with other terrorist groups such as the LeT and the Harkat-ul-Jihad Isami. Pakistani terrorist groups, with the active connivance of Pakistans ISI, have provided funding, explosives, training http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 104 104 104 104 104 http://upscportal.com Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be and other crucial support, all of which have facilitated the IMs emergence as a deadly terrorist organisation capable in its own right. Shortly after every strike, there are the usual arrests of IM activists. These arrests may be the result of visible IM activity in preparation for an upcoming attack. It is also possible that attacks follow the arrests of IM men, because the IM or its Pakistani allies, LeT and the ISI, want to demonstrate their resolve to carry out further attacks. Valuable warnings Valuable warnings Valuable warnings Valuable warnings Valuable warnings This sequence of events preceding IM bombings can provide valuable warnings of likely attacks, and highlight points in IM operations that are vulnerable to disruption by security agencies. Specifically, security agencies must subject IM operatives and their networks to extensive covert electronic surveillance. While this is routine in most counter-terror operations, travel intelligence systems must track the movement of IM operatives within India, across Indias borders, and even beyond those borders. IM operatives have previously used Indian passports to exit India to friendly neighbouring countries like Pakistan and Bangladesh from there on, they have used fake Pakistani passports, no doubt supplied by the ISI, to travel to Pakistan and the Gulf. One of IMs top leaders, Mohammed Sadiq Israr Sheikh, from Azamgarh in Uttar Pradesh, is believed to have travelled from India to Bangladesh in 2000 on a legitimate Indian passport and from there on to Pakistan on a genuine Pakistani passport arranged by the ISI. In Pakistan, he met with LeT commander Azeem Cheema in Bahawalpur and trained at an LeT training camp near Muzaffarabad. At least another 10 people from Azamgarh alone, who travelled to Pakistan through various intermediate countries, have been identified. Disrupting a network requires understanding it thoroughly in real-time so that attacks can be stopped before they occur. Closer coordination with agencies such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation and other law enforcement agencies will not only help uncover IMs global support network, but also the detailed interlinked relationship among terror, financing, and criminal organisations. Though it is impossible to predict the exact location and timing of an attack, data mining technology has now come of age. It can predict the types of attacks that terror groups will carry out and the approximate time-frame (in three-month periods). This provides a valuable input to law-enforcement and intelligence agencies, enabling them to intelligently deploy scarce investigative resources. If this translates into fewer number of IM attacks over the course of a six-month period, we will have brought about a welcome and needed synergy between researchers and law- enforcement at a time when national security demands it. Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Unshackling the bureaucracy Unshackling the bureaucracy Unshackling the bureaucracy Unshackling the bureaucracy Unshackling the bureaucracy The image of an honest civil servant subjected to arbitrary transfer or suspension by the political executive at the behest of vested interests is etched in the public consciousness as a key archetype of the Indian bureaucracy. The rising public awareness of the importance of the bureaucracy in the delivery of basic services to citizens has received a welcome boost from the Supreme Courts reformative verdict on insulating officers from political interference. Three significant administrative reforms arise out of the courts verdict on a petition by more than 80 former bureaucrats: a fixed tenure for civil servants so that they are not transferred at the whims and fancies of the political executive; and a stipulation that all instructions by superiors be in writing, to protect officers from wrongful pressure from their superiors, political masters and vested interests. To prevent arbitrary transfers, the court has directed that the Centre and the States establish Civil Service Boards (CSB) comprising serving officers to advise the political executive on transfers, postings and disciplinary action, until Parliament enacts a law in this regard. These directions are meant to ensure good governance, transparency and accountability in governmental functions, the court has said. A question that might be raised is whether the Supreme Court was overstepping its ambit by directing the constitution of a mechanism to regulate transfers and postings, especially when draft Bills are in circulation on such reforms. But it is evident that the court has taken judicial note of the various official reports and studies in this regard. It quotes extensively from past exercises the reports of the K. Santhanam Committee on prevention of corruption, the Hota Committee and the Second Administrative Reforms Commission that addressed these questions. These reports had recommended fixed tenures, insulation from political interference, avoidance of oral instructions, and a statutory board to decide on transfers. But these were not taken forward. The failure of the executive to frame a legislative framework to address these key concerns has forced the court to step in. The reality is that the phenomenon of the politician-bureaucrat- industrialist nexus is so entrenched that it requires a sustained systemic effort to cleanse the administrative system. The real gain for citizens is that the Supreme Court judgment has raised the bar for good governance in this country by providing a framework to insulate bureaucrats from the pressures of a clutch of vested interests which act through the political system. Public confidence in governance is bound to rise as a result of this landmark verdict. Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Tackl i ng Tackl i ng Tackl i ng Tackl i ng Tackl i ng New Maritime Challenges New Maritime Challenges New Maritime Challenges New Maritime Challenges New Maritime Challenges Maritime challenges are being fundamentally transformed by new technological and geopolitical realities, shifting trade and energy patterns, and the rise of unconventional threats. The fact that about 50 per cent of the maritime boundaries in the world are still not demarcated, accentuates the challenges. Water covers more than seven- tenths of the planets surface, and almost half the global population lives within 200 km of a coastline. It may thus surprise few that 90 per cent of the worlds trade uses maritime routes. With countless freighters, fishing boats, passenger ferries, leisure yachts, and cruise ships plying the waters, a pressing http://upscportal.com 105 105 105 105 105 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be concern is maritime security a mission tasked to national navies, coast guards, and harbour police forces. Altering equations Altering equations Altering equations Altering equations Altering equations The maritime order has entered a phase of evolutionary change in response to global power shifts. Maritime power equations are beginning to alter. The shifts actually symbolise the birth-pangs of a new world order. Emerging changes in trade and energy patterns promise to further alter maritime power equations. For example, energy-related equations are being transformed by a new development: the centre of gravity in the hydrocarbon world is beginning to quietly shift from the Persian Gulf to the Americas, thanks to the shale boom, hydrocarbon extraction in the South Atlantic and Canadas Alberta Province, and other developments. The United States, for the foreseeable future, will remain the dominant sea power, while Europe will stay a significant maritime player. Yet, the international maritime order will continue to gradually but fundamentally change as new powers acquire greater economic and naval heft. According to a projection by the recently released Global Marine Trends 2030 report, as the global GDP doubles over the next 17 years China will come to own a quarter of the worlds merchant fleet. Several other maritime states in the Asia-Pacific, including Japan, South Korea, India, and Vietnam, are also set to significantly enlarge their maritime footprints. Admittedly, there are real threats to maritime peace and security from the changing maritime power equations and the sharpening competition over resources and geopolitical influence. The Asia-Pacific region with its crowded and, in some cases, contested sea lanes is becoming the centre of global maritime competition. Maritime tensions remain high in this region due to rival sovereignty claims, resource- related competition, naval build-ups, and rising nationalism. A lot of attention has focussed on the maritime implications of Chinas rise. President Xi Jinping has championed efforts to build China into a global maritime power, saying his government will do everything possible to safeguard Chinas maritime rights and interests and warning that in no way will the country abandon its legitimate rights and interests. Chinas increasing emphasis on the oceans was also evident from the November 2012 report to the 18th national congress of the Chinese Communist Party that outlined the countrys maritime power strategy. It called for safeguarding Chinas maritime rights and interests, including building improved capacity for exploiting marine resources, and for asserting the countrys larger rights. The risks of maritime conflict arising from mistake or miscalculation are higher between China and its neighbours than between China and the U.S. There has been a course correction in the Obama administrations pivot toward Asia, lest it puts it on the path of taking on Beijing. Washington has bent over backward to tamp down the military aspects of that policy. Even the term pivot has been abandoned in favour of the softer new phrase of rebalancing. The U.S., moreover, has pointedly refused to take sides in sovereignty disputes between China and its neighbours. It has sought the middle ground between seeking to restrain China and reassure allies but, as former U.S. Deputy Secretary of State James Steinberg has put it, without getting ourselves into a shooting war. China has also shied away from directly challenging U.S. interests. It has been careful not to step on Americas toes. Its assertiveness has been largely directed at its neighbours. After all, China is seeking to alter the territorial and maritime status quo in Asia little by little. This can be described as a salami-slice strategy or, what a Chinese general, Zhang Zhaozhong, this year called, a cabbage strategy surrounding a contested area with multiple security layers to deny access to the rival nation. Bit-by-bit strategy Bit-by-bit strategy Bit-by-bit strategy Bit-by-bit strategy Bit-by-bit strategy This bit-by-bit strategy increases the risk of maritime conflict through overreach, and the inadvertent encouragement it provides to neighbouring countries to overcome their differences and strategically collaborate. The new international maritime challenges, however, go beyond Chinas jurisdictional creep. The oceans and seas not only have become pivotal to any powers security and engagement with the outside world but they also constitute the strategic hub of the global geopolitical competition. The growing importance of maritime resources and of sea-lane safety, as well as the concentration of economic boom zones along the coasts, has made maritime security more critical than ever. The maritime challenges extend to non-traditional threats such as climate security, transnational terrorism, illicit fishing, human trafficking, and environmental degradation. The overexploitation of marine resources has underscored the need for conservation and prudent management of the biological diversity of the seabed. Deep seabed mining has emerged as a major new strategic issue. From seeking to tap sulphide deposits containing valuable metals such as silver, gold, copper, manganese, cobalt and zinc to phosphorus nodule mining for phosphor-based fertilizers used in food production, the inter-state competition over seabed-mineral wealth underscores the imperative for creating a regulatory regime, developing safe and effective ocean-development technologies, finding ways to share benefits of the common heritage, and ensuring environmental protection. Inter-state competition over seabed minerals is sharpening in the Indian Ocean, for example. Even China, an extra-regional power, has secured an international deep-seabed block in southwestern Indian Ocean from the International Seabed Authority to explore for polymetallic sulphides. More broadly, some of the outstanding boundary, sovereignty and jurisdiction issues extending from the Arctic to the Indian Ocean carry serious conflict potential. The recrudescence of territorial and maritime disputes, largely tied to competition over natural resources, will increasingly have a bearing on maritime peace and security. Bangladesh and Myanmar have set an example by peacefully resolving a dispute over the delimitation of their maritime boundaries in the Bay of Bengal. They took their dispute to the http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 106 106 106 106 106 http://upscportal.com Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea for adjudication. The Tribunals verdict, delivered in 2012, ended a potentially dangerous dispute that was fuelled in 2008 when, following the discovery of gas deposits in the Bay of Bengal, Myanmar authorised exploration in a contested area, prompting Bangladesh to dispatch warships to the area. However, some important maritime powers, including the U.S., are still not party to the 1982 U.N. Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Iran recently seized an Indian oil tanker, holding it for about a month, but India could not file a complaint with the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea because Tehran has not ratified UNCLOS. The seizure of the tanker, carrying Iraqi oil, appeared to be an act of reprisal against Indias sharp reduction of Iranian oil purchases under U.S. pressure. The threats to navigation and maritime freedoms, including in critical straits and exclusive economic zones (EEZs), can be countered only through adherence to international rules by all parties as well as through monitoring, regulation and enforcement. Great-power rivalries, however, continue to complicate international maritime security. The rivalries are mirrored in foreign-aided port-building projects; attempts to assert control over energy supplies and transport routes as part of a 21st-century-version of the Great Game; and the establishment of listening posts and special naval-access arrangements along the great trade arteries. The evolving architecture of global governance will determine how the world handles the pressing maritime challenges it confronts. The assertive pursuit of national interest for relative gain in an increasingly interdependent world is hardly a recipe for harmonious maritime relations. Another concern is the narrow, compartmentalised approach in which each maritime issue is sought to be dealt with separately, instead of addressing the challenges in an integrated framework. Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu A flawed and A flawed and A flawed and A flawed and A flawed and Unwarranted move Unwarranted move Unwarranted move Unwarranted move Unwarranted move The Election Commission might be well-intentioned in seeking to ban opinion polls in the run-up to an election, but the move does not seem to be sound in law, and is certainly not desirable in practice. The reasoning for a ban is that opinion polls influence voters prior to polling, and therefore the results of such polls should be withheld until after the end of voting. Needless to say, this is a flawed argument, and a ban, while imposing needless restrictions, will not in any way enhance the purity of elections. Whether opinion polls influence voting is debatable, but even if they do, that is no reason to ban them. Election campaigning ends only 48 hours before polling closes, and political parties and their supporters are free to indulge in propaganda to influence voters till then. If parties and candidates are allowed to try and influence voters during the campaign period, why cannot the media or others publish poll findings that may or may not influence voter behaviour? Even if some of the surveys are not scientific, and some others are fraudulent just as some election manifestoes may include tall promises a ban cannot be the solution. Opinion polls that are not transparent and are carried out unscientifically, quickly lose credibility. In any case, the voters must be allowed to judge for themselves the extent of reliability of the innumerable opinion polls and exit polls. Actually, any ban on opinion polls runs counter to Article 19 (1) (a) of the Constitution that provides all citizens the right to freedom of speech and expression. Of course, this freedom is subject to reasonable restrictions listed in Article 19(2): in the interests of the sovereignty and integrity of India, the security of the state, friendly relations with foreign states, public order, decency or morality, or in relation to contempt of court, defamation or incitement to an offence. Any hypothetical influence on voters does not figure in this list. Any ban would therefore contravene the fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution, and belittle the intelligence of voters. Already, by a 2009 amendment to the Representation of the People Act, restrictions have been placed on the publication of results of exit polls from the beginning of polling on the first day in a multi-phase election till half an hour after the close of polling in all States. The rationale behind the restrictions on exit polls is their claim to greater credibility, and therefore, their greater ability to influence voters. The distinction between opinion polls and exit polls on this basis is surely untenable, but what needs to be done is the removal of restrictions on the publication of exit poll findings, not the placing of similar restrictions on opinion polls. Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Trouble in tourist paradise Trouble in tourist paradise Trouble in tourist paradise Trouble in tourist paradise Trouble in tourist paradise The murder of Nigerian national Obodo Uzoma Simon at Parra village in north Goa, and the unusual street protest by the small community from the African nation that followed, have brought under focus the seamier side of the tourist paradise. While the crime itself may have been the fallout of what the police believe is a turf war between local and international gangs in the narcotics trade, the knee-jerk reaction of the authorities in beginning an eviction drive against Nigerians was unwise. By the time Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar came out with an explanation that the drive was against all foreign nationals staying on without valid documents and was not limited to Nigerians, wrong signals had gone out. The African country intervened diplomatically to seek a reassurance that its nationals are not unfairly treated and demand that the culprits involved in the murder be apprehended. It issued a note verbale to India, and the Indian emissary in Abuja had to explain the situation to the Nigerian foreign office. India imports oil in considerable quantity from Nigeria, which is one of its major trading partners. There is a sizeable Indian community in Nigeria. It would make little sense to resort to actions against Nigerians that may invite retaliation there. Nigerian diplomats did mention the possibility of retaliatory action. The Goa police have made some progress in the investigation, arresting one Goan suspect and identifying a few more. It appears that there is considerable local resentment against the activities of some foreign nationals, http://upscportal.com 107 107 107 107 107 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be especially after the police struggled to control the protest by the Nigerian community, but this should not be an excuse to crack down on foreign nationals indiscriminately. Prejudices and perceptions often come together to put communities to disadvantage, especially in the backdrop of unsavoury incidents. Goas reputation as a haven for the fun-loving tourist is matched only by the popular perception that gangs belonging to various nationalities operate there with impunity. Crime statistics, however, do not bear out the theory: there is no unusual spike in recent years in the number of foreign nationals arrested for such offences. And it is now no secret after a committee of the Goa Assembly highlighted last month the nexus between the authorities and drug dealers that the trade is more than a mere shadowy activity catering to addicts. While dealing with such cartels, the State government should focus on any criminal activity, rather than the nationalities of those involved. At any cost, it should not allow the perception to gain ground that a crackdown on organised crime has racial overtones. Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu A battle of generations A battle of generations A battle of generations A battle of generations A battle of generations Aglobal audience running to tens of millions awaits the start of the world chess championship title clash between champion Viswanathan Anand and Norwegian prodigy Magnus Carlsen, the highest ranked player in chess history, in Chennai starting on November 9. Anand, once known as the Lightning Kid for the speed at which he annihilated opponents on the board, is now aged 43; he is a five-time winner who has overpowered three seasoned challengers since 2008. Believe it or not, Anand first made it into the top 10 in world rankings in July 1991, when Carlsens first birthday was still four months away. This battle of generations involves players of conflicting styles. They have perfected the art using the best tools of their era. What Anand learnt from his deep study and understanding of chess classics, Carlsen gained using software. Going by present form, Carlsen is tipped to win. His rating of 2870 is 95 points higher than Anand, who is currently ranked eighth in the world. The young challenger has won six of his last nine tournaments and in the others, stayed half a point behind the winner. Anand triumphed once this year to end a title-drought that began in 2008. But remarkably, during this period, Anand retained the world title all three times. In the event, Anands experience and success in match-play is being seen as his biggest asset. In Chennai, more than Anand taking advantage of home conditions, it will be interesting to see how Carlsen, a citizen of one of the coldest and least populated nations, deals with the situation. Anand has to make things happen instead of playing the waiting game against Carlsen. The Norwegian is not known to accept quick draws. He capitalises on his energy to tire out his rivals. He excels in drab and listless positions where most players find it difficult to concentrate for long. Expecting long battles, Anand is learnt to have worked a lot on his fitness and shed a few kilograms as part of his preparation. Head-to-head, Anand has six victories to three by Carlsen who is, however, the winner of their last two decisive encounters. In fact, in their last game this summer, Carlsen handed out Anand his worst defeat. No wonder, the chess world expects a change of guard in Chennai. But knowing Anands tenacity and motivation, it will be nave to rule out his chances. As former champion Garry Kasparov, who trained the young Norwegian in 2009, said, Vishy [Anand] will be quite happy that he is the underdog. Hes got huge experience. In opening preparation, Anand is an expert whereas Magnus should be more precise. Magnus will have to learn to deal with psychological pressure. Anand needs no reminding how important this match is. Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu The Great Akbar of The Great Akbar of The Great Akbar of The Great Akbar of The Great Akbar of Independence struggl e Independence struggl e Independence struggl e Independence struggl e Independence struggl e Height about 5 5; exceptionally thin; noticeably fair; age about 33 years; has practically no hair on his face though he does not shave; long sharp face with prominent nose. This is the official description of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, the golden boy of the Independence struggle. With his confidence, charm and sincerity, Azad impressed people of his age group with his sharp and swift mind. Later in years, he especially cultivated a look of venerable age to give a suitable background to his learning. His genius and method were too individual to found a school, but his writings and lectures exerted a profound influence owing to the breadth of view and patient learning. Rajaji described him as The Great Akbar of Today. Unease with conformity Unease with conformity Unease with conformity Unease with conformity Unease with conformity The study of Azads early life is, however, hampered by a deficiency of data. But there is ample evidence to indicate his discomfort with the traditional order of things. This was enough to rouse his scorn. So is his unease with taqlid or conformity. Is Islamic doctrine so rigid and dogmatic that it leaves no room for intellectual creativity? With this bent of mind, he broke off the shackles of fossilised theology, and critiqued all those elements in theology that inhibited the progress of empirical science and the unlimited process of their utilisation. His views on the spread of a materialistic way of life and the stagnation and retardation of religious life became well-known, but this phase in his life when he saw in religion only ignorance proved to be momentary. Once he regained his faith, he worked out a synthesis between the reformist and orthodox philosophies. He did not go too far in this journey, but went far enough to disturb the status quo . The awakening at Aligarhs M.A.O. College fostered ideas on reforms, interpretation, and innovation among the Muslim intelligentsia. Syed Ahmad Khan moulded young Azads thinking. He did his very best to read his writings and admired them. He also admired Shibli Nomani, founder of the Nadwat al-ulama in Lucknow. And when the Nadwa alim turned pan-Islamist after the European intervention in the Balkan States, Azad too stressed that the bonding with the Turks was unique insofar as they were a part of the Islamic community as well as its last political centre. One has only to cast a glance at some of Azads early writings to realise http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 108 108 108 108 108 http://upscportal.com Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be that he entered the valley of doubts and uncertainties to demolish the suppositions that had guided theologians. He opposed the scripturalists or the literalists, because they advocated rigid adherence to the fundamentals of Islam, as literally interpreted from the Koran and the Sunna . His interest in the externals of religion, too, diminished. At the same time, he was consistent in his authentic inward piety. Just as he was ready to comprehend the whole Koran within the verses of the fi rst Surah , so he conceived and pursued the politics of Islam within the Korans dimension of piety. The Muslim communities were divided by geographical situation, by differences of dialect and custom and, in some cases, by the deeper chasm of sectarianism, but pan-Islamism inflamed their passions, a feeling that, although they had been ground down under the wheels of history, they thought of themselves as a mighty society spread worldwide. Azad, for one, was attached to the common inheritance of Islamic culture and explored the treasures of thought and emotion which belonged to theumma . He proceeded naturally from the conviction that education, liberalism and faith in progress were requisites for Muslim empowerment. Setting a great example of moral leadership during World War I, Azad became the soul of the Congress party. He opposed Partition heart and soul, while a great body of his compatriots clamoured for a Muslim nation. He could not conceal the contempt that he felt for them, and at no stage in his public career did he stoop to compromise. The spectacle of Indians working out a new way of life and boldly defying the accumulated prejudices and animus of the past was one which aroused his interest and curiosity. Without looking around to find a mirror that might reflect radical faces, he identified pluralism to be the weapon of the strong and the weak against the British. He preferred the conviction of Dara Shikoh, the eldest Mughal prince and a victim of Aurangzebs conspiracy, that in the search for the ultimate Truth, mosques as well as temples validly mediate the one candles light. Harmonious and Harmonious and Harmonious and Harmonious and Harmonious and Creative Islam Creative Islam Creative Islam Creative Islam Creative Islam Azads greatest gift was to postulate an equation between Islam and Indian nationalism on the one hand, and between Islam and the universal principles, on the other. He did so to enlarge our conception of what is possible, enrich our intellectual imagination, and diminish dogmatism which closes the mind toijtehad . With his belief in an integrated, harmonious and creative Islam, he adumbrated the outlook of a religious humanist, very much in the line of the humanism embodied in the classical Persian Sufi poetical tradition. He envisaged an Islam not of sectarian belligerence but of confident partnership in a cultural and spiritual diversity where a strident divisiveness would be its betrayal. Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, Minister of Education in free India and sponsor of an official history of the 1857 Rebellion, referred to the two communities standing shoulder to shoulder to liberate themselves from the British yoke. Why did Azad and others think that it was worth their while to make this point? Probably, to record the regret that the British swept away and rooted out the late Mughals pluralistic and philosophically composite nationalism, and to bemoan that they ensured that common action by Hindus and Muslims would in future not be accomplished easily. Shakespeares view of life in one of his plays is that, round the lonely great ones of this earth there is inevitably a conspiracy of envy and hatred, hatched by the base and common sort. On December 30, 1941, the gates of Naini prison outside Allahabad opened for Azad; on August 9, 1942, the new gate of the old Ahmednagar Fort prison closed behind him. Earlier, its mention would invariably bring to his mind several forgotten footprints of time and presented, page after page, six centuries of history. And yet, in this world of thousand caprices and moods, so many doors are opened to be closed and so many are closed to be later thrown open. Hence, between July 15 and August 5, 1942, he went around the country for consultation with the Congress leaders. Azad spent a total of 10 years in jail. Thrown into a new world whose geography did not extend beyond a hundred yards and where the population was no more than 15 faces, he was overwhelmed by the morning sunlight and the evening darkness. Like Antonio Gramsci, Azad conceived of writing something that might absorb him and give a focus to his inner life. For this, he read a great deal. He drew the guidance and motivation from the reading of Scriptures. It is important to realise and important particularly for the full knowledge and comprehension of times past that internment kindled Azads Islam into warmth and fervour. Like Aurobindo Ghose who found God as a result of the wrath of the government, he felt comforted and serene. And like the future sage of Pondicherry, he found it impossible to explain the love of motherland or sacrifice to the thick- skinned Britons in India. Independence came with Nehrus tryst with destiny speech, but Partition plunged Azads spirits into depression. There is no more certain test of statesmanship, wrote H.A.L. Fisher in hi s History of Europe , than the capacity to resist the political intoxication of victory. Though hurt and wounded by a colossal tragedy, the otherwise distraught Azad carried his tribulations with a stoical dignity and pursued his active role through stresses of inner disquiet. Ultimately, he suffered for the sake of truth. He had noted in one of his many elegant passages that, the flowering trees whose offspring once represented beauty and grace were now lying in a heap in a corner, like burnt out bushes and trampled up grass. The story which opened with the bright colours of the Al-Hilal and Al- Balagh closed in deep shadow. Like the Urdu poet, Mir Taqi Mir, Azad could only voice affirmation of the historical process or protest against the iniquities of time and the suffering it caused to the sensitive mind and soul. He had indeed no small talk, and no time for it, or for little human foibles, but in his famous speech after independence at the Red Fort in Delhi, he lambasted those Muslims who threw themselves http://upscportal.com 109 109 109 109 109 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be more and more deeply into the communal vortex. At the same time it must be said to his credit that, in the turmoil raging around the Muslim communities, Azad secured them the comfort of peace and security. Lesser men found conflict in the rich variety of life, but Azad was big enough not only to see the essential unity behind all that diversity but also to realise that only in this unity can there be hope for India as a whole and for those great and varied currents of national life. Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Reprieve, for now Reprieve, for now Reprieve, for now Reprieve, for now Reprieve, for now Policymakers must be heaving a big sigh of relief at the decision of ratings agency Standard & Poors (S&P), to retain Indias sovereign rating at BBB , with a negative outlook. The skidding rupee, a high current account deficit (CAD), weakening GDP growth and rising inflation had set off fears of an imminent downgrade of the countrys sovereign rating. A downgrade would have taken India to below investment grade, which would have put off prospective investors and also raised borrowing costs for Indian companies abroad, compounding the existing problems. If this dire scenario did not play out, it is thanks mainly to the measures initiated by the Reserve Bank of India and the government to support the rupee and rein in CAD through a tight squeeze on non-essential imports. A simultaneous pick-up in exports and revival in FII fund flows, following the decision of the U.S. Federal Reserve to continue with its monthly bond-buying programme, certainly helped improve the external environment. Interestingly, S&P notes that Indias external position is an element of strength for the rating, a far cry from the situation just a few weeks ago. Yet, the fact is that the risk of downgrade has been seen off only temporarily, as the ratings agency has itself acknowledged in its report. There still are several adverse economic variables for policymakers to be worried about. With the CAD now under check, the focus has shifted to the fiscal deficit and the question of whether the government will be able to stick to the target of 4.8 per cent of GDP for 2013-14 considering that elections are round the corner. Reining in subsidies on petroleum products and fertilizers is crucial to meeting the fiscal deficit target, but as we get closer to the elections it is doubtful if the government will be able to prune either. Added to this is the outlay on food subsidy, which S&P estimates will be as high as 1.5 per cent of GDP. Funding these subsidies would not have been a worry in an environment of strong economic growth but that is not the case now; the growth impulse is weak and both consumption and investment are at a low ebb. Falling demand has resulted in idling of capacities across a range of industries starting from automobiles to consumer durables. These problems acquire a different dimension when viewed along with the likelihood of political instability at the Centre post the general elections. And this is exactly the risk that the ratings agency is flagging for its negative outlook. A change in the outlook to positive and warding off a possible downgrade would require a return of the growth impulse, resolute management of the fisc and stable monetary conditions a tough ask indeed in an election season. Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Surrender on CHOGM Surrender on CHOGM Surrender on CHOGM Surrender on CHOGM Surrender on CHOGM Once again, foreign policy objectives have been sacrificed at the altar of political expediency. After Pakistan and Bangladesh, the surrender by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and the Congress to political opposition and a narrow regional view on Sri Lanka is not surprising, but it is disappointing all the same. For India, the two main objectives in its dealings with Sri Lanka are to ensure a just deal for that nations Tamil minority, and to protect its own interests in a region of strategic importance. The Prime Ministers decision not to attend the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting came after weeks of pressure by Tamil Nadu political parties, including a resolution by the State Assembly. But if the primary reason for staying away is to express displeasure at Sri Lankas reluctance to address alleged atrocities against Tamil civilians during the final battles against the LTTE, it is doubtful if the decision will yield a different, more positive outcome. More likely is a further erosion of New Delhis influence on the Rajapaksa regime to effect a just settlement of the Tamil question. It was thanks to Indias prodding that Sri Lanka held elections in September to the Northern Provincial Council, convincingly won by the Tamil National Alliance. This significant milestone in ethnic reconciliation has given Tamil-dominated northern Sri Lanka a popularly elected administration for the first time. Unfortunately, instead of projecting this as an example of constructive diplomacy, the Congress allowed itself to be blackmailed by its present and potential allies in the State. Political parties in Tamil Nadu virtually ignored the NPC election, giving rise to the suspicion that it is not the interests of Tamils across the Palk Strait that they espouse but their own, as in this election season it is easier to flog the emotional overtones of the issue than respond to more pressing domestic concerns. A decision by Dr. Singh to go to CHOGM and include a visit to Jaffna would have been a powerful reaffirmation of New Delhis stakes and interests in the region. India must now deal with the consequences of its decision to stay away, both on the Tamil question and on its own larger interests. In Sri Lanka, it will affect the task of reconciliation considerably, including Indias efforts to ensure the 13th Amendment is not diluted or done away with entirely. It is to be hoped that both countries will guard against any adverse consequences on people-to-people links, and India will have to manage the huge strategic and diplomatic fallout. It is debatable if Sri Lanka will turn into a Chinese satellite in the Indian Ocean as is commonly feared, but clearly, the island will be looking for other allies in the region and beyond. Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu A flawed A flawed A flawed A flawed A flawed approach to Montreal approach to Montreal approach to Montreal approach to Montreal approach to Montreal It is 1994, and less than a year to Assembly elections in Bihar. The Indian economy is on the mend but the benefits of liberalisation are yet to reach semi- urban and rural areas. Standing in the http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 110 110 110 110 110 http://upscportal.com Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be way of government efforts to boost consumer spending is a little known international treaty called the Montreal Protocol. The Protocol requires India which ratified it in 1992 to control and phase out the use of chlorofluorocarbons and halons, which are considered Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS). As a developing country, India has been offered a 10- year window to abide by its commitments to the Protocol. Refrigerator or tiger? Refrigerator or tiger? Refrigerator or tiger? Refrigerator or tiger? Refrigerator or tiger? Reining in CFCs could possibly dent the consumer goods market in India: they are used as refrigerants in automobiles, electronic appliances, plastics and pharmaceuticals, among other applications. Of particular concern is the market for refrigerators, which has witnessed an unprecedented boom. Having acceded to the Protocol, the government has no option but to hard-sell it to the public. Maneka Gandhi who as Environment Minister negotiated Indias entry into the Protocol opts for a novel approach to the issue at an election rally in Bihar, in a constituency located near a tiger reserve. Ms. Gandhi she would recall to the late political scientist Holly Sims spins the story of The Lady, or the Tiger around to ask the crowd: Do you want a refrigerator, or a tiger? Its impact on Indias consumer- driven growth notwithstanding, the Montreal Protocol was a much-needed instrument that addressed ozone depletion. The well-being of tigers is not directly linked to the decreasing volume of ozone in the atmosphere but by comparing refrigerators to endangered animals, Ms. Gandhi simply sought to relate the importance of the treaty to laypersons. This year, the Montreal Protocol is back in the spotlight. The United States and other developed countries are leading an effort to bring hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) within the ambit of the treaty. India, which has scrupulously adhered to its original commitments under the Protocol, is being arm-twisted into agreement. Cutting down on HFCs will deprive Indian industry of the only viable alternative to CFCs. Despite its potential impact on the economy, in an election season, the United Progressive Alliance has made no effort to convince the public why it is tagging along with the proposal. The reasons are fairly clear: Indias negotiating position has not been borne out of some sense of responsibility to the environment. It has its genesis in Prime Minister Manmohan Singhs promise to U.S. President Barack Obama made both at the G20 meeting at St. Petersburg and during his visit to the White House in September 2013 that New Delhi will not object to the Wests initiative. The Montreal Protocol was negotiated in the aftermath of a stunning discovery by British scientists of a giant hole in the ozone layer over Antarctica. This discovery in 1985 lent urgency to treaty deliberations. The Protocol owes its success to a sharply defined objective to stem further ozone depletion. To this end, the treaty identifies the class and category of halons and CFCs that need to be regulated. The Wests current proposal to sweep HFCs under the Montreal Protocol runs contrary to established principles of international law. In fact, it defeats the very purpose of the Protocol. HFCs do not harm the ozone layer. However, they contribute substantially to greenhouse gas emissions and thus, climate change. Since HFCs gained currency as an alternative to CFCs and other ozone- depleting substances, the West has argued, they too should be regulated under the Protocol. A treaty may have unintended consequences, but to amend it to tackle them all is neither feasible nor desirable. If it is found that conventional warfare has been on the rise on account of the absolute ban on nuclear weapons, should the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty be amended to impose limits on defence budgets of countries? Bringing HFCs under the Montreal Protocol, some have argued, serves the larger goal of tackling climate change. But regulating the only commercially viable alternative to ODS is likely to encourage non-compliance from the Protocol. In any event, history suggests the Wests proposal is not solely driven by noble intentions. In return for its consent, India has been promised financial and technical assistance to phase out HFCs. The U.S. offered exactly the same carrot when the Protocol was negotiated two decades ago. Although a Multilateral Fund was set up to provide support for developing countries, its quantum was subject to much dispute. While India sought $1 billion for the Fund, the West offered merely $240 million in the interim period between 1991-93, with additional pledges to follow. As of 2010, $2.7 billion had been pledged. Here is a figure to put that amount in perspective: the refrigerator market in India alone is valued at $1.8 billion. While negotiating the Protocol, India was sceptical about claims of technology transfer, so the Environment Ministry sought to make it mandatory. Alternative technology was concentrated in the hands of private players in the West, India argued, and the treaty had to compel them into sharing it with developing countries. Industrialised nations, as the then chief U.S. negotiator Richard Benedick recalls in his memoir Ozone Diplomacy , saw this demand as environmental blackmail. The mandatory transfer provision failed to materialise after China softened its stance. India was projected as a holdout to the Protocol, which increased pressure on the government to ratify it. The result? Companies like DuPont which influenced the U.S. position on the Protocol and Daikin made windfall profits by tapping into emerging markets with their patented substitutes to CFCs. Similarly, western companies stand to gain most if HFCs are to be phased out under the Protocol. The U.S. holds most of the patents for alternative hydrocarbon and magnetic refrigerants. These technologies, which have not seen wide commercial usage in developing countries, could be prohibitively expensive. Meanwhile, India has once again been called out for stalling the proposal to amend the Protocol. The Hindu has reported how, at the Bangkok conference to review the working of the Protocol recently, the Indian delegation objected to the setting up of a contact http://upscportal.com 111 111 111 111 111 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be group on HFCs. The Ministry of Environment and Forests is keen to address HFCs within the U.N. Framework Convention on Climate Change. But setting a target to reduce HFCs under the Framework will lead to similar demands for other greenhouse gases, something the U.S. steadfastly opposes. HFCs are potent compounds but their contribution to climate change is currently minuscule compared to that of CO2 emissions. Tweaking the Montreal Protocol not only frees the U.S. from any commitment on other greenhouse gas emissions, but also works to favour its companies. Phasing down HFCs Phasing down HFCs Phasing down HFCs Phasing down HFCs Phasing down HFCs The Ministry has been thrown under the bus after the Prime Minister agreed during his U.S. visit to set up an Indo-U.S. Task Force to discuss phasing down HFCs under the Protocol. Indias negotiating position at climate talks have, regrettably, been held hostage to the Prime Ministers foreign policy legacy. If the Montreal Protocol is amended to include HFCs within its scope, India and other developing countries have no option but to import expensive and largely untested technology from the West. The government has proposed to allow for compulsory licensing to make it accessible to domestic players. Two wrongs, however, do not make a right. For starters, New Delhi will find it difficult to justify granting compulsory licences regarded as an emergency measure for green technology under the TRIPS regime. Second, compulsory licences are only going to serve the interests of big Indian companies which have the wherewithal to manufacture alternative refrigerants cheaply and on an industrial scale. Indias accession to the Montreal Protocol offers a few lessons for this government. While it negotiated the terms of the Protocol during the late 1980s, it did not join as an original signatory. India adopted a negotiation strategy aimed at securing financial assistance in addition to a grace period to phase out CFCs. With the wisdom of hindsight it is clear that developed countries are not going to pay for the damage they have caused to the ozone layer. This does not dilute the imperative of tackling climate change rather than rushing to embrace the U.S. position on the Montreal Protocol, India should stick to its original demand to address all greenhouse gas emissions through the UNFCC. At the U.N. climate talks, Indias commitment to stringent emission norms must doubtless be coupled with a legally binding assurance of technology transfer. Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu The Rupee s The Rupee s The Rupee s The Rupee s The Rupee s Continuing Troubles Continuing Troubles Continuing Troubles Continuing Troubles Continuing Troubles The rupee is in trouble, yet again. The currency has been sliding in the last five trading sessions, to close at Rs.63.71 versus the dollar on Tuesday. A convergence of unfavourable factors appears to be behind the renewed fall in the currency after the relative stability of the last few weeks. The immediate trigger was the positive news emerging from the U.S. The global economic engine last week reported a better-than- expected 2.8 per cent growth in the third quarter ended September. This was immediately followed by encouraging non-farm payrolls data which showed that more jobs were added in October than expected. These data have set off fears that the Federal Reserve might start the tapering of its $85 billion monthly bond-buying programme as early as in December or January. Foreign institutional investors have turned net sellers in the domestic market in the last few trading sessions. It is not coincidental that since November 6, the day the rupee lurched into its latest turbulence, FIIs have sold $438.50 million in the debt market. The return of fears over tapering is strengthening the dollar against other Asian currencies as well, as global fund flows head back to the U.S. in anticipation of rising bond yields. There are a couple of domestic factors too that seem to be working against the rupee. The most important of these is the partial closure of the special window that was opened by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for oil companies to buy their dollars directly from the central bank. With apparent stability prevailing over the last few weeks, the RBI pushed back into the market almost half of the oil companies dollar requirements, causing demand for the greenback to rise. Also, a couple of special measures initiated by the central bank at the peak of the crisis to support the rupee by attracting dollar inflows, such as the swap window for foreign currency deposits, are supposed to close by the end of this month. These factors, along with the possibility of the Federal Reserve starting the tapering process, point to a period of weakness ahead for the rupee. The RBI may well find itself forced to extend some of the supportive measures put in place earlier. What is heartening though is that there has been a perceptible improvement in the external account since the last round of volatility a couple of months ago. Trade data for October, the latest available, show acceleration in exports and a significant fall in imports; if these trends sustain, the current account deficit, which was acting as a drag on the rupee during the last spell of volatility, could be around $60 billion or 3-3.2 per cent of GDP. Yet, this may not be enough to support the rupee if FIIs decide to take their money back to the U.S. Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu A crucial milestone A crucial milestone A crucial milestone A crucial milestone A crucial milestone The 19th Conference of the Parties to the U.N. Framework Convention on Climate Change (CoP 19), which began on Monday in Poland, marks a crucial milestone towards negotiating an effective global warming treaty. At CoP 19, the fault lines remain the same: industrialised countries would like to see a significant cut in global greenhouse gas emissions (GHG), while developing nations are prepared to reduce their carbon footprint only with financial and technical assistance from the West. Negotiators have given themselves two years to connect the dots on a comprehensive agreement when they meet in Paris in 2015. Predictably, this deadline has proven tough to meet. Most countries agree that it would be unrealistic to have the treaty prescribe the quantum of emission cuts. There seems to be broad support for the bottom-up approach, which would involve countries submitting voluntary http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 112 112 112 112 112 http://upscportal.com Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be commitments assessed and monitored for compliance by the treatys guardians. Even so, the devil is in the detail: the EU, for instance, will push for legally binding commitments to halve GHG emissions by 2050 in comparison to 1990 levels. The U.S. wants a mix of legally and non-legally binding commitments. The Obama administration has said it has no plans to ratify the Kyoto Protocol which imposes a binding emissions cut on developed countries. For its part, India wants to retain the Kyoto Protocols preferential treatment of developing countries. Along with BASIC group members Brazil, China and South Africa, India has based its negotiating position on the principle of equity. New Delhi has made its climate commitments contingent on mitigation actions which would entail assistance to it in the form of finance, technology transfer and capacity building measures. The challenge for Indian negotiators at CoP 19 will be to secure these demands without being billed as a holdout to the treaty. India has already faced flak, rather unfairly, for its objection to bringing hydrofluorocarbons under the Montreal Protocol, as opposed to the UNFCCC. Meanwhile, fissures have shown up in the BASICs negotiating line as a whole. Last month, South Africa suggested the new treaty must include binding carbon cuts for all parties. The imperative of climate change what with several natural disasters this year, and the atmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide having crossed 400 parts per million is no doubt lending urgency to negotiations. Indias climate diplomacy must be aimed at dispelling the notion that it is reluctant to tackle global warming. Meanwhile, it must ensure Indian industry affordable access to western technology to meet our commitments effectively. Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu The garb of policy-making The garb of policy-making The garb of policy-making The garb of policy-making The garb of policy-making Facing a series of corruption charges, some of them borne out by audit reports and police probes, the last thing that the United Progressive Alliance regime would want is to reinforce in the public mind the image of being a government that seeks to restrain independent agencies from going behind its policies and decisions to look for evidence of wrong-doing. Remarks by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Union Finance Minister P. Chidambaram at a conference organised by the Central Bureau of Investigation are likely to create such an impression. When Dr. Singh said it would not be appropriate for a police agency to sit in judgment over policy formulation without any evidence of mala fides , he may have been voicing serious concern that treating an administrative decision that goes wrong as criminal misconduct may lead to policy paralysis. However, with Union Finance Minister P. Chidambaram taking the cue from him and cautioning the CBI and other authorities like the Comptroller and Auditor-General against overstepping their limits, it is difficult not to see a pattern. The government is clearly uneasy with recent developments: the CBI wishes to be seen as being independent and wants to scrutinise decisions such as those relating to allocation of coal blocks, and there is greater public and judicial support for granting it functional autonomy. The UPA government is perhaps not wrong in highlighting the complexities involved in decision- making in the era of economic liberalisation. Also, it has sought to place in perspective the issue of granting autonomy to the CBI: its operational freedom should be distinguished from the need for accountability and executive oversight. If all it wants is that errors of judgment during decision- making should not be misconstrued by an investigating officer as crimes, there should be no quarrel. However, the government itself administers the safeguards available in law and the judicial system that can protect honest policy decisions and honest officials against vexatious enquiries. The requirement that prior sanction is needed before prosecution is launched is intended to filter out misconceived charges. Experience shows that corrupt deals do take place in the garb of overtly proper administrative decisions, while policies and norms ostensibly serving the public interest are on many occasions framed in such a way as to suit vested interests. Great caution is required while seeking amendments to provisions that currently criminalise actions that procure pecuniary advantage to any person without any public interest. Protecting the honest civil servant who makes risky judgment calls is one thing; sweeping dishonest decisions under the carpet of policy- making is quite another. Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Long walk to normalcy Long walk to normalcy Long walk to normalcy Long walk to normalcy Long walk to normalcy Thirteen-year old Suraj Thapa works as a kitchen boy at a highway dhaba on Jalandhar Bypass, well cared for by his Sikh employers. But why is Suraj here in the first place, rather than attending school in his home district of Pyuthan in western Nepal? Since the unification of Nepal two- and-a-half centuries ago, the state has failed to provide for its citizenry, pauperising it through expansionary wars, hereditary autocracies and royal dictatorships. The poorest have had to migrate for survival, reaching back to when Gorkhalis turned up at the gates of Ranjit Singh in Lahore. Opportunity for growth Opportunity for growth Opportunity for growth Opportunity for growth Opportunity for growth When the 1990 Peoples Movement ushered in democracy, the opportunity for economic growth and equity seemed finally at hand, a time to shed Kathmandu-centricism and the historical marginalisation of whole communities. Nepal would now be able to parlay its size, sovereignty and abundant natural resources for material wealth, to emerge as an exemplary nation-state of South Asia. Before five years were over, however, the Maoists had picked up the gun against the embryonic parliamentary system. Evolution of the polity was derailed and the economy stunted; the process of de- employment has been ongoing now for 17 years, a decade of conflict and seven years of chaotic transition. The poorest from hill and plains cross the open border to the south, swelling the ranks of the labouring Nepali underclass, from the wheat fields of Punjab to the apple orchards of kalapahad (Himachal) and the bylanes of Bangalore. The less-poor go http://upscportal.com 113 113 113 113 113 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be to the Gulf and Malaysia. At least six million of Nepals 27.5 million able- bodied are outside today, also severely depleting the voter rolls for the upcoming elections of November 19. Crows in a fog Crows in a fog Crows in a fog Crows in a fog Crows in a fog The so-called transitional period has become almost as long as the conflict itself, with the economy held hostage and the state directionless like a crow in a mountain fog. The Maoists came above ground following the massive and peaceful Peoples Movement of 2006, but they cheated on the peace process by holding on to their combatants for six years instead of the promised six months. The historical monarchy was abolished by political consensus, but the Republic of Nepal was weakened from the start by its progenitors. An electoral farce was enacted in April 2008, with aggression and reckless propaganda making the Maoists the largest party by far in the Constituent Assembly (CA). The electorate was trapped by the hurried announcement by Jimmy Carter (as a parachutist election observer) that the polls were just fine; and by the Chief Election Commissioner of the day who declared that the polls were to be seen as part of the peace process. Given the sullied elections, the Assembly was robbed of gravitas and credibility; after extending its two-year term by a further two years, the CA collapsed in May 2012 without delivering a document. Throughout the period of the CAs life, the Maoists continued to consolidate their grip on society, weakening the bureaucracy, police, the army and, finally, the judiciary. Ignoring the pain among the victims of conflict, they developed a tacit understanding with the Nepal Army, the former enemy, to scuttle the formation of a Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Their goal of blanket amnesty for perpetrators sowed the seeds of long-term social discord. Micromanaged quagmire Micromanaged quagmire Micromanaged quagmire Micromanaged quagmire Micromanaged quagmire Perhaps the most dangerous development during the CAs term was the calibrated manufacture of inter- community polarisation, in the context of defining federalism. Cross-cutting divisions were activated between hill and plains communities, between castes and ethnicities, with the sizeable Dalit population losing out at every step. The Maoists prepared the stage for crony capitalism, with all-out corruption whose scale went from lakh to crore to arab in a handful of years. Deftly, the comrades transformed from revolutionaries to casino operators, real est at e mafiosi , and ki ckback merchants swimming in telecom, hydropower and other honey pots. Steadfastly stonewalling district and village-level elections, they helped extend the culture of graft to the grassroots. The Interim Constitutions stricture on governance-by-consensus proved a bane, and over time the polity came under the grip of the four-party syndicate steered by the UCPN-Maoist Chairman, Pushpa Kamal Dahal (Prachanda). It was this political cartel which, in early 2013, decided to hand over the reins of the government to the sitting Chief Justice, compromising Nepals tradition of separation of powers. With the political leadership divided between the opportunists (Maoists) and the inept (the democratic flank), the international community had a field day with Nepals internal affairs. Overseas donors provided ample funding for constitutional debates, but managed mainly to divert political activists into workshops and seminars. Beijing, nervous about its Tibet underbelly but also seeking to create new geopolitical realities, sought to increase its influence on the Home Ministry. Astoundingly, New Delhi seemed to outsource its Nepal policy to unaccountable agencies and obnoxious individuals and, as a result, got caught in a quagmire of micromanagement. Country without jurists Country without jurists Country without jurists Country without jurists Country without jurists One more try at writing the Constitution was needed, hence the polls next week for Constituent Assembly-II. Unfortunately, the syndicate has ensured that the foundations are weak. There is no threshold percentage, so the forthcoming House will likely be hugely fragmented. The size of the Assembly at 601 members is unwieldy, and the nature of the proportional list allows party leaders to play favourites. The plains Dalit, in particular, have been abandoned in the various compromises made. The unkindest cut was to discard the very concept of vetting, allowing war-crime accused to become candidates. Given such flaws, the meaningfulness ( saarthakata ) of the CA-II can only be ensured by guaranteeing clean elections. Even if Constitution-writing takes time, in this country without jurists, there will be a Parliament for the next four years. Representative government will provide a buffer for the economy and give continuity and direction to the state. The polls will also help separate the judiciary from the executive, and salvage a modicum of dignity in the international arena including assigning an ambassador to India, a seat that has been vacant for more than two years. The elections are also crucial to impede the growth in tandem of the radical left and the Hindutva-right, the former led by Chairman Dahal and the latter manned by those energised by the prospects of Narendra Modi in India. The road to socio-political stability is ideally along the lines spelled out by the late Biswheswor Prasad Koirala half- a-century ago, a social democratic state where fundamental freedoms will help reverse the injustices of the past and present. Electoral accessory Electoral accessory Electoral accessory Electoral accessory Electoral accessory Nepals normalisation is dependent at this stage on representative government built on the basis of kosher elections, reversing the momentum towards money and muscle in politics. The dangers emanate from the UCPN-Maoist of Dahal and the breakaway faction of Mohan Baidya. The leaders of the Nepali Congress, the CPN (UML) and Madhesbadi parties are unable to block the elections even if they want to. What would Chairman Dahal (and Vice-Chairman Baburam Bhattarai) do if they perceive the UCPN-Maoist party faring considerably worse than in 2008? This is a critical question, for the temptation would be to try and hijack the outcome through booth capture, stuffing of ballots and threatening voters http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 114 114 114 114 114 http://upscportal.com Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be On October 30, the Supreme Court of India, on a public interest litigation plea by several retired senior civil servants, ruled in favour of greater order and transparency in transfers and posting. It directed the formation of a Civil Services Board of senior civil servants to decide on transfers and postings and a fixed tenure for postings. It also directed civil servants not to accept oral orders from their superior officers or Ministers, and to ensure that the orders are reduced in writing before they are carried out. The judgment has been welcomed by the media, the bureaucracy and those who deal with the government and its institutions. The reaction from the political executive has been muted and, from some quarters, negative, with one spokesman saying the power of transfers and postings should continue with the political executive. There have also been comments from think tanks that the judgment would be difficult to implement, given that the Central as well as State governments would be involved, and that the Supreme Court should not have ventured so deep into the realm of executive jurisdiction. Behind these two events is the recognition of the development of a malaise that is affecting governance and the way the business of government is transacted. Even more deeply, there appears to be a debate between what is right and who is right. Pre-Independence l egacy Pre-Independence l egacy Pre-Independence l egacy Pre-Independence l egacy Pre-Independence l egacy The permanent civil services are a pre-Independence legacy. There was always to be a gap between administrators/implementers and politicians. The former were professionals who were expected to advise on policy, and implement the governments programmes and projects. The relationship was one based on mutual trust and respect of one anothers role. Those of us who joined the services in the 1960s took this relationship for granted, and were able to function freely, with respect and close coordination with Ministers. This has changed since the 1980s. The growth of regional parties and the fragmentation of the national polity brought to power groups which had the short-term objective of retaining power, and lesser respect for established rules and regulations. There was increasing pressure on civil servants to do as they were told, under threat of transfer and administrative action. In some States, there was little respect for office or tenure, and officers lived in constant anxiety over the next transfer. The recent case of the suspension of a young officer in Uttar Pradesh, and actions against an officer in Haryana are visible examples of political highhandedness. Officers were given oral orders that were often not backed by rules. In the event of an investigation, the officers had to face culpability. In the last decade, the excesses have extended to several sectors that are now facing investigation and criminal action. The Supreme Court judgment is a welcome reprieve that attempts to set the boundaries for political intervention in administration. The directions on written orders, fixity of tenure and the establishment of a Civil Services Board are based on the earlier recommendations of the Hota committee and the Administrative Reforms Commission reports of 2009. These recommendations were not implemented by the government, and the Supreme Court verdict draws upon them and directs implementation. However, it is not going to be easy to implement the instructions, for several reasons. Disjoint in governance Disjoint in governance Disjoint in governance Disjoint in governance Disjoint in governance First, there is a serious disjoint in governance between the political hierarchy and the administrative machinery. The 2G case, coal and mining scandals, the Commonwealth Games and other incidents have clearly demonstrated that there has been considerable erosion of fair processes in the last decade. Criminal investigations will determine where the malaise lies: but it is quite apparent that the subversion of due process to the advantage of a select few has originated at the level of the political executive. Only investigations will reveal whether the civil service participated in the wrong-doing. It is also clear that in several instances, rules have been flouted, earlier norms overturned, and protests marked on files ignored. There is now lack of trust and fear among and candidates alike with the Young Communist League as was done the last time. The UCPN-Maoist is also far ahead of the other parties in the ability to buy votes, and the spending would be upped sharply in the final days. The other critical question is whether Mr. Baidya and his party will seek to disrupt the polls as a whole, or help fight Mr. Dahal on the issues. It is a fact that Mr. Baidya was unfairly treated by the syndicate in talks on participating in the elections, but he does the people an injustice with the run of bandhs and bombings of the past month. In the penultimate days, he is emerging as a spoiler and, in that sense, acting as a Dahal accessory. In the days before the ballot, Mr. Baidya has managed to divert the attention of the electorate from the issues that are vital for the upcoming elections responsibility for the weakened sense of national sovereignty, heightened impoverishment, squelching of local government, loot of the exchequer, communal polarisations, and candidacies of accused perpetrators. The upcoming election is one more attempt to end the run of debacles that has dogged the people of Nepal through history, and to reach for normalcy, in democracy and in peace. That journey begins, once again, by trying to keep money and muscle from influencing the ballot box on November 19. Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu A question of accountability A question of accountability A question of accountability A question of accountability A question of accountability Two recent events have focussed attention on the relationship between the political executive and public servants. At the international conference on corruption organised by the Central Bureau of Investigation on November 11, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh urged that if there was no evidence of wrong-doing, there should not be any presumption of criminality. He also said that Section 13 d (3) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, introduced when P. Chidambaram was the Minister for Personnel two decades ago, would be removed. This Section extends the concept of corruption to any loss to the government by the action of public servants. http://upscportal.com 115 115 115 115 115 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be senior bureaucrats, who feel they have no safety net against illegal action, and that they are victimised if they do not toe the political line. The Prime Ministers assertion at the anti-corruption seminar on November 11 that in effect, a loss to the government and the country does not necessarily constitute wrong-doing indicates the direction of future political decision-making. If this is the mindset, there is no way the Supreme Court judgment will change the behaviour or attitude of those in power. It is no surprise that a Congress spokesperson has reacted strongly to the judgment, and declared that transfers are a tool to control the bureaucracy. Second, it is equally true that there has been some politicisation of the civil service. In several States, officers close to a regime are unwanted during the next regime. Such close political proximity is possible only through compromises in decision-making as well as in ethical standards. The politician may well turn to these instances to justify his position. There is also considerable corruption at the operating levels. Fixity of tenure in lucrative jobs, as promised by the court, is but a guarantee to continue to exploit the benefits of the position. It will become a double-edged sword. If there is collusion between the interests of the political executive and the civil service, the Supreme Court judgment will result in an increase in wrong-doing, not a curb on it. There is enough evidence at the lower levels of administration that this is true. Third, there is the ultimate question of accountability. As long as wrong-doing goes unpunished, the politician will continue to believe that getting voted back to power is sufficient proof of innocence, and that the civil service should not be a bottleneck. Recent Supreme Court judgments on the Representation of the People Act as well as the close monitoring of 2G and other cases have shifted the focus to courts, and no political party is comfortable with that. We are faced with the ultimate question of whether, in a democracy, the rule of law can be interpreted in favour of those in power at a particular time. If yes, the Supreme Court judgment will have no effect. The time is now ripe for a much more fundamental debate, on whether the rules of business that applied to a colonial regime are any longer relevant. Even in the United Kingdom, where these rules originated, they have been given up in favour of a joint decision-making process that makes the Minister in charge solely responsible for the actions. Watchdogs are effective and retribution is swift and deterrent. The vertical hierarchy of notes and orders prevalent in India shifts responsibility in a manner that makes accountability difficult it is time to change that. If not, as predicted by Hamza Alawi two decades ago, the state would be under the control of the political and industrial class, aided, to some extent, by the bureaucracy, and all to the detriment of the nation and the citizens. Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Questions about Questions about Questions about Questions about Questions about Indias drug industry Indias drug industry Indias drug industry Indias drug industry Indias drug industry Even before I walked into the Mayflower Hotel in the heart of Washington on a crisp autumn afternoon to meet Dinesh Thakur, whistle-blower and former director of India-based pharmaceutical giant Ranbaxy, I had a hunch that this conversation would spark some troubling questions on Indias malfunctioning drug industry. On May 13, 2013, Ranbaxy pleaded guilty to seven felonies relating to drug manufacturing fraud and agreed to cough up $500 million to settle the case brought by the U.S. Department of Justice (DoJ) after eight years of investigation. The vast evidence in the case, some of it supplied by Mr. Thakur and marshalled by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), included inspection reports compiled after multiple FDA visits to Ranbaxy plants in India in Paonta Sahib, Himachal Pradesh, and Dewas, Madhya Pradesh. Ranbaxy makes a long list of generic medications 200 different molecules, according to its website everything from anti-retroviral drugs to treat HIV-AIDS to commonly used antibiotics such as Amoxicillin and Cephalexin (Mox and Sporidex in India). It makes generic combinations of Paracetamol and Ibuprofen, and sells numerous over-the-counter products, such as pain relief gel Volini and cosmetic product Revital in India. While it is apparent that Indians consume Ranbaxy drugs at a prolific rate accounting for approximately Rs.2,600 crore, or 18 per cent of the companys global revenue for 2012 what is less clear is why the Indian government has not launched a vigorous investigation into the current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) violations that the U.S. authorities found at multiple Ranbaxy facilities. Go-slow approach Go-slow approach Go-slow approach Go-slow approach Go-slow approach The Drug Controller General of India (DCGI), G.N. Singh, said in June: When the issue has been flagged, as a regulator it is our duty to see that whatever medicines have been produced here are of assured quality. But he did not specify the date by which a review of Ranbaxys past drug applications would be completed, leave alone committing himself to holding surprise visits to facilities aimed at investigating manufacturing standards. This go-slow approach is all the more baffling given that, despite assurances by Ranbaxy after its admission of guilt in May that all of its other facilities adhered to the required process quality standards, a third plant, this time in Mohali, Punjab, was slapped with an import alert by the U.S. in September. If any doubt remains about the seriousness of the claims made by the FDA so far, it is worth taking a quick look at the dossier of evidence submitted by the DoJ in the case against Ranbaxy. Settlement documents make it clear that Ranbaxy admitted that had the seven felony charges brought by the DoJ gone to trial, the government would have proven beyond a reasonable doubt that the company in 2006 had knowingly made materially false, fictitious and fraudulent statements, with regard to the stability testing of drugs, and in 2003, it with intent to defraud and mislead, failed to submit timely field reports to the FDA. FDA investigation FDA investigation FDA investigation FDA investigation FDA investigation According to the FDAs investigation, Ranbaxy acknowledged http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 116 116 116 116 116 http://upscportal.com Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be violations of cGMP regulations with regard to a U.S.-distributed drug, Sotret, even as far back as 2003. That was at a time when the billionaire brothers Malvinder and Shivinder Singh owned the company. The Singh brothers sold Ranbaxy to Japanese Daiichi-Sankyo in 2008 and walked away with a cool $4.6 billion. Nevertheless, the Sotret episode marked the beginning of a series of FDA investigations of Ranbaxy facilities in India, particularly of the two that focussed on production for U.S. markets: Paonta Sahib and Dewas, where Ranbaxy manufactured Sotret and two other popular drugs, Gabapentin and Ciprofloxacin. Inspecting Paonta Sahib in February 2006, the FDA found no fewer than eight deviations from cGMPs. These included failure to include a complete record of all drug testing data as required by FDA guidelines, and failure to establish an adequate testing programme for the stability characteristics of drugs essential to determine drug storage conditions and expiration dates. Dewas was also investigated the same month and the FDA found not only a similar unavailability of quality-control data but also a failure to extend investigations into any unexplained discrepancy, such as testing deviations noted for specific drug batches. Quality issues Quality issues Quality issues Quality issues Quality issues Additional inspections of the Dewas facility in 2008 unearthed a range of quality problems. For example, there were no separately defined areas for the production and packaging of penicillin that could prevent microbiological contamination of this drug from exposure to other drugs in the vicinity. Again, quality control test failures of certain drugs were not thoroughly investigated. These early hints ought to have set alarm bells ringing at FDA headquarters: prescribed procedures were not being followed; the required data documenting these procedures were not being compiled; and where deviations were noted, they were not being investigated. They did not appear to raise the red flag or at least not enough of them. Thus, in November 2011, the FDA did not see it fit to hold Ranbaxy back from selling generic Lipitor, the popular cholesterol-reducer. Blessed with a six- month exclusivity grant, the company went on to rake in $600 million in sales revenue. Only when fate appeared to intervene and glass particles were discovered in samples of the drug did Ranbaxy issue a massive recall notice. Yet, if the FDA only scratched the surface of drug quality problems at three Ranbaxy facilities, then there is an enormous question mark over the extent to which other Ranbaxy facilities beyond the ken of U.S. authorities are similarly involved a matter of great importance to the 150-odd countries in which Ranbaxy sells its products, including India. Poor enforcement in India Poor enforcement in India Poor enforcement in India Poor enforcement in India Poor enforcement in India In this context, the Indian drug control authorities must share some of the blame for not coming down harder on fraud. The institutional reasons for poor enforcement in India are well known. In the context of drug regulation, the point was made most poignantly by the department-related Rajya Sabha Standing Committee on Health and Family Welfare in its 59th report, on the functioning of the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO). In 2012, the Standing Committee lambasted the collusive nexus between drug manufacturers, some functionaries of CDSCO and some medical experts, citing in one case the spurious nature of the approvals process for new drug applications made by pharmaceutical companies. While there is much more that the DCGI and CDSCO could do, it would be unfair to say they havent been jolted into action by laffaire Ranbaxy, and then again by the FDA issuing import alerts against another Indian generics company, Wockhardt. Earlier this month, the DCGI reportedly ordered a third pharmaceutical major, Sun Pharmaceutical, to suspend clinical research activities and new drug filings and applications at its Mumbai-based bio-analytic laboratory, after discovering that Sun didnt have the requisite approval from the Central government for operating the laboratory. However, until a deeper, institutional change takes place to break the nexus between drug companies and Indias regulatory regime a change that incorporates everything from surprise checks on manufacturing facilities to greater transparency in, and policing of, drug approvals processes and clinical trials there is a strong likelihood that Indian consumers of drugs made by these companies have poison coursing through their veins. Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Indi a and Indi a and Indi a and Indi a and Indi a and Climate talks imperatives Climate talks imperatives Climate talks imperatives Climate talks imperatives Climate talks imperatives By all accounts, no dramatic developments are to be expected from the 19th edition of the Conference of Parties (COP) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) that started in Warsaw last week. But it is generally acknowledged that the key issue at Warsaw, even if there are many other significant subjects on the agenda, centres around moving forward the negotiations on the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action (DPA) initiated at COP 17 two years ago. It is widely understood that the Durban Platform was a game-changer, setting the stage for decisive climate action based on clear commitments to emissions reduction from all nations. Subsequently, the discussions in the Ad- Hoc Working Group on the Durban Platform (ADP) have resulted in demanding timeline for achieving its aims, including a draft text to be produced by the COP in 2014, a global meeting of heads of states of all nations to be convened by the United Nations Secretary General to push forward such an agreement, and a final agreement to be reached by COP 21 in 2015. While it is not a foregone conclusion that the DPA will achieve its stated goals by 2015, there are now additional factors conducive to reaching a global agreement. Even if no individual extreme climate event can be attributed exclusively to increased global warming, increasing awareness of the impact of climate-driven disasters, such as http://upscportal.com 117 117 117 117 117 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be Typhoon Haiyan and the Uttarakhand flash floods, is contributing to a global recognition of the urgency of a climate deal, among governments as well as civil society. Significantly, the release of the Fifth Assessment Report (AR5) of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) over the next several months, culminating in the release of the final synthesis report of all its findings next year, will add to the sense of urgency. At the UNFCCC, the European Union has been the most active in pushing forward the agenda of the Durban Platform, laying out in increasing detail the framework and broad outlines of its content and a methodology for securing commitments that would ensure an effective treaty. It has been joined in this effort by many African nations, especially South Africa, and have the strong support of the island- states of the world support that was vociferously expressed at Durban in 2011. The United States has pursued a two-track policy with respect to the DPA. On the one hand, the U.S. insists that it would undertake only such emissions reductions as it deems feasible, a strategy that is referred to as the bottom up approach in the global climate discourse. On the other hand, it has not hesitated to support the European Union, the Africa Group and the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS) in their efforts to have a binding climate agreement with assigned commitments to all nations, especially when such commitments are to be imposed on China and India. Indias interests Indias interests Indias interests Indias interests Indias interests Where do Indias interests lie in the matter of a global climate agreement? There can be no doubt that India needs an early climate agreement, for two reasons. On the one hand, there is increasing evidence that unchecked global warming would lead to increasingly severe effects in several sectors, especially agriculture and water, apart from the increased frequency of extreme climate events. The enhanced climate variability that accompanies global warming will have serious impacts on Indian farmers, the bulk of whom are small-holders who even today suffer the consequences of weather and climate shocks, before the effects of global warming have risen to more alarming levels. An early climate agreement with the potential to restrict global average temperature rise to at least 2 degrees Centigrade, if not lower, is certainly a necessity. An early and effective limit on greenhouse gas emissions will also contribute to lowering the need, and associated costs, for climate change adaptation, which otherwise could be considerable. At the same time, India needs adequate atmospheric space in terms of allowed carbon emissions to pursue its development. Even in a highly optimistic scenario in which renewable energy rapidly takes up the bulk of the requirements for sectors such as domestic lighting and heating, agriculture, and all energy needs of small-scale establishments, India will still need fossil fuels for a considerable time until reliable sources of clean energy become available for large-scale use in the expansion of industry, transportation and the like, all of which are needed for development. Even infrastructure needs for adaptation will require such emissions. The IPCCs AR5 report has brought to the centre-stage of discussion the notion of a global carbon budget, referring to the cumulative carbon dioxide emissions into the atmosphere, from the beginning of the industrial era till the end of the 21st century, that are permissible, if the global temperature rise is to be kept below 2 degrees C. For a 66 per cent probability of keeping the rise in global average temperature below this limit, the world is allowed approximately 1000 billion tonnes of carbon emissions (taking account solely of carbon dioxide). But the nub of the issue is the equitable distribution of this space. In per capita terms, or indeed by several other measures of equitable distribution as well, the developed countries have already substantially exceeded their fair share of this global budget. As a consequence, a large number of developing countries, including China but especially India, will have to make do with less than their fair share of the global carbon space as their national carbon budgets for the future, if indeed global warming has to be kept in check. Top-down agreement Top-down agreement Top-down agreement Top-down agreement Top-down agreement To maximise the developing countries access to the global carbon budget, an early top-down agreement to impose constraints on the developed nations consumption of carbon space in the atmosphere is an obvious necessity. Even more obviously, an approach based on voluntary commitments to emissions reduction by developed and developing countries would not address Indias needs. In view of these considerations, it is surprising that New Delhis guidelines for its Warsaw delegation should set aside Indias long-standing commitment to treating the atmosphere as a global commons, to be shared equitably by all nations, and instead back the voluntary commitments approach. Predictably, even before this approach has been articulated, it has run into rough weather. The EU is of course fully aware of the global carbon budget and hence demands that the gap between the sum of all voluntary commitments and the allowed global budget has to made up by further emissions reductions that all nations have to agree to. This demand, as well as Indias response that the gap must be made up by the developed nations based on historical responsibility for emissions, brings us back to what is indeed a top-down approach. At the heart of the Government of Indias current confusion lies its unwillingness to acknowledge that in an eventual global agreement, all countries have to shoulder some part of the burden, even while any such burden- sharing must be based on equity and climate justice in accordance with the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities. New Delhis view currently is that developing countries will have no binding commitments whatsoever even into the future, a view that will increasingly isolate India from even others in the ranks of the G-77. The inadequacy of official Indias unhappy approach is brought out by the fact that it has allowed the term equity reference framework in the context of the ADP negotiations to be hijacked by other nations, including nations of the African Group as well as the EU. India and its like-minded friends are left in the http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 118 118 118 118 118 http://upscportal.com Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be unenviable position of opposing this term, claiming that developing nations will never undertake any binding commitment. For too long, Indias official climate policy has portrayed the absence of a proactive stance on a climate agreement as a strategy to protect the countrys interests. Climate science as well as good climate politics demand that India shift to making clear to the world its commitment, in concrete terms, both to securing its developmental future as well as preserving the global environment. Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Challenge to Challenge to Challenge to Challenge to Challenge to Artistic expression Artistic expression Artistic expression Artistic expression Artistic expression The Madhya Pradesh High Courts directive to change the title of Sanjay Leela Bhansalis movie Ram Leela, i s only the latest setback to artistic and creative expression in India. The High Courts order underlines the urgent need to reconsider the film certification process, and indeed, the archaic Cinematograph Act of 1952. Mr. Bhansalis offering was cleared by the Central Board of Film Certification, a statutory body entrusted with vetting all aspects of a movie, including its title. If a High Court judge could overrule the CBFC in response to a petition that claimed the title Ram Leela offended religious sentiments, the Boards mandate is in serious jeopardy. Presumably, neither the judge nor the petitioners had a chance to evaluate the movie ahead of its release. The Madhya Pradesh High Court could have simply issued notice to the movies producers while refusing to comment on the petitions merits, as the Bombay High Court had done. The Delhi High Court had gone further, imposing a fine on an NGO that preferred a similar, vexatious complaint against the movie. The Madhya Pradesh High Courts order has opened the door for mischievous attempts to curb free speech and rendered the movie vulnerable to attacks elsewhere. Ram Leela may not have met the fate of movies like Vishwaroopam and Madras Caf , banned altogether by the Tamil Nadu government. But in all three cases, film-makers were in no position to contest any violation of their freedoms. The exigency of ensuring a timely release in a competitive market has left them at the mercy of fringe elements who twist the law to meet their ends. Those aggrieved by the CBFCs decision to clear the title Ram Leela could well have approached the Film Certification Appellate Tribunal. The rationale behind a dedicated certification process is laid to waste if producers are not offered an opportunity to present their case. Summary decisions by courts, as with that issued by the Madhya Pradesh High Court, often come at the cost of due process. The Justice Mukul Mudgal Committee, constituted to formulate a model Cinematograph Act, had recommended that the FCATs scope be enlarged so as to make it the primary venue for such litigation. The draft Bill mooted by the Committee suggests that movies be evaluated in the context [] and people to which the film relates. Whether Ram Leela sl i ghts the traditional enactment of the Ramayana or is merely a reference to the movies protagonists is best decided by the FCAT. Lawmakers must take up the Mudgal Committees recommendations in earnest to avoid such scenarios as the one created by the Madhya Pradesh High Courts order. Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Rationales for separation Rationales for separation Rationales for separation Rationales for separation Rationales for separation Telangana is almost a fait accompli now, but both pro-Telangana activists and anti-bifurcation protesters know there is still a lot to fight for: the status of Hyderabad, the demarcation of boundaries, the sharing of water resources, and the reallocation of government personnel. With the Group of Ministers looking into issues relating to the bifurcation completing its consultations on Monday, the focus is now on the details of the bifurcation, and not the creation of Telangana itself. The violent agitations leading to and following the Cabinet approval for Telangana were in part engendered by the indecisiveness of the government at the Centre, and the absence of any structured dialogue among the various stakeholders on the bifurcation. The Centre heard views from all sides, but could not force anyone to consider compromises or scale down from maximalist positions. The discussions so far have been random exercises held in the hope that a consensus would magically emerge. But now that these efforts have predictably failed, they are shown up as justification for a hurried, unilateral approach by the Centre. No resolution on the Telangana issue was introduced in the Andhra Pradesh Assembly. While this is not mandated by the Constitution, the bypassing of the Assembly is certainly a departure from the precedents in the bifurcation of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Madhya Pradesh in 2000. Of course, in these instances the creation of the new States Uttarakhand, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh were not as contentious as the carving out of Telangana from Andhra Pradesh is. Telangana remains an instance of how not to go about creating new States. Almost inevitably, the Cabinet approval for Telangana has revived demands for new states in eastern India, Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra. Clearly, the Telangana tangle has reinforced the need for setting up another States Reorganisation Commission to examine various demands for new states and lay down broad principles and guidelines in deciding new boundaries. At present, many of the demands are based on loose, largely imagined, identities. The struggle for Telangana was based on its political past, and not linguistic or ethnic identity. Without some rational, practical basis for the creation of new states, statehood demands would be conceded as the Centre seems politically expedient. Governance issues and administrative convenience should also be among the decisive factors in the creation of new states. Otherwise, statehood demands would be sustained by narrow, sectarian agendas that ignore the larger interests of the community. The end result of such demands can only be internal displacement of people. Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Crippling deadlock Crippling deadlock Crippling deadlock Crippling deadlock Crippling deadlock Bangladeshs political impasse appears all set to worsen in the coming weeks unless the two main political parties, the Awami League and the http://upscportal.com 119 119 119 119 119 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be Bangladesh Nationalist Party, demonstrate maturity of a high order. The BNP has opposed the all party government formed by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to oversee national elections due in January 2014 and threatened to take to the streets. As a result, only parties in the Awami League- led ruling coalition are represented in the set-up. The roots of the present crisis go back to 2011, when the Hasina government amended the Constitution to abolish the caretaker system of government, which had been introduced in the mid-1990s to provide a non- partisan overseer for elections. The decision to do away with it was born out of first-hand experience of the perils of the caretaker system when a government of technocrats appointed for three months in 2006 stayed on for over two years with military backing. The abolition was opposed by the BNP, which also boycotted the vote on the amendment in Parliament, seeing it as a self-serving move by the Awami League. Since then, the country has moved from crisis to crisis, each segueing into the other, including massive violence that attended the trials to punish those who had cooperated with the Pakistan Army against the liberation of Bangladesh. Through all this, if BNP leader Khaleda Zia has been confrontationist, Prime Minister Hasina has hardly been reconciliatory. The ban imposed earlier this year on the Jamaat-e-Islami, a crucial ally of the BNP, did nothing to enhance the Awami League leaderships democratic credentials, coming as it did shortly after the opposition combine convincingly won a clutch of municipal elections in the midst of the war crimes trials. What is required now is for both parties to acknowledge that they need to engage with each other constructively to ensure a peaceful democratic transition. An election boycott by the BNP, as the party has threatened, is no solution. As for the Awami League, victory in an election that is not contested by the main opposition party would be hollow. It will set the country on a fresh path of political confrontation. With the security situation in the entire region uncertain, several countries are now engaged in efforts to break the political deadlock in Dhaka. Already seen as pro-Hasina, New Delhi must do nothing that appears partial to any party. It is true that Sheikh Hasina has been a good friend of India, but New Delhis inability to reciprocate with a settlement on the Teesta river water dispute or on the land boundary issue has given the BNP a stick to beat the government with. It is in Indias interests to encourage the two main parties to find a way out of this impasse themselves, without taking sides. Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Ridding the net of the poison Ridding the net of the poison Ridding the net of the poison Ridding the net of the poison Ridding the net of the poison of child abuse of child abuse of child abuse of child abuse of child abuse No one should be able to search for and find images of child abuse online. Its that simple. This isnt about censorship; this is saying to people that they cannot use search engines to attempt to look for something clearly sickening and illegal. On Monday, Google and Microsoft took a major step forward in making a safer Internet a reality: 100,000 terms that could be used when someone is searching for child abuse images will no longer lead people to gateway websites that link to this content, and in some cases will now return an on-screen warning to the user. The government, the Child Exploitation & Online Protection Centre (CEOP) and the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) have worked together to get us here, and the Internet industry has shown great integrity. But while we at the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) welcome the vast amount of work and expertise that has gone into finding technical solutions to rid the web of this poison, we will only ever measure the success of these efforts in one way: results. That means reductions in people looking at these images and in the number of children who are abused. We must never forget that behind every one of these images and videos is a real little boy or girl who has been abused. The term child porn obscures this reality and should be deleted from our vocabulary. Calling the abuse of children porn aligns it as just another form of human sexual taste. Lets call this material child abuse images and have no more shades of grey about it. Some people may ask why its so important to stop the circulation of and access to these images online? Shouldnt more resources be put into stopping the abuse of children in the first place? Well, this isnt an either/or situation. All of these images portray crime scenes and we know that sex offenders often begin their journey into depravity by casually searching for images of young children in increasingly sexualised poses. I am not naive about the scale of the challenge. I know that Mondays announcement on search terms wont stop determined sex offenders, but what it will do is help stop the curious from heading down a very dangerous path. We know that the worst child abuse is shared in the dark corners of the Internet, on peer-to-peer file-sharing websites, and these are the target of organisations such as CEOP and the IWF. And we know the industry is helping with its vast expertise in this area too. Of course every effort must be made to keep children safe from abuse, to teach them about it, as well as identifying sex offenders as soon as possible and get them treatment to prevent them posing a danger to children. There is no one silver bullet, but that shouldnt detract from the significance of this commitment from the industry to make this an ongoing programme of work with monitoring, evaluation and transparency at its heart. If more abusers are identified we must then see them prosecuted and jailed. Its very concerning that we have record numbers of people reporting sex crimes yet cases being sent for prosecution by the police are falling. The government must keep child abuse images at the top of the political agenda and take a strong stance, including providing sufficient police resources to track down and bring offenders to justice. Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Surveillance and Surveillance and Surveillance and Surveillance and Surveillance and Its Privacy Pitfalls Its Privacy Pitfalls Its Privacy Pitfalls Its Privacy Pitfalls Its Privacy Pitfalls On November 15, a pair of investigative portals released a set of audio transcripts depicting an extraordinarily invasive and scrupulous http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 120 120 120 120 120 http://upscportal.com Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be surveillance of a young woman by the Gujarat Police. Its implications, limited as they may appear to those who consider privacy a besmirched value, in fact, have much to tell us about the abusive might of political power. The surveillance was purportedly ordered by Amit Shah, former Gujarat Home Minister, at the behest, it appears, of the Bharatiya Janata Partys prime ministerial candidate and current Gujarat Chief Minister, Narendra Modi. The Congress, for its part, has predictably taken umbrage to the alleged illegal surveillance, arguing it seems, for a probe into the matter. But we have been none the closer to a comprehensive privacy law under the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance regime. The Union government is, in fact, equally at fault for dipping into its totalitarian reserves to allow a substantial erosion of our privacy, even as technology pervades our lives like a brooding omnipresence. Slippery slope Slippery slope Slippery slope Slippery slope Slippery slope The tragedy of the matter is not merely that the BJP and Mr. Modi have been allowed to get away without an explanation, but that the value attached to our privacy is on a slippery slope. The BJPs defence, for the record, an oblique annexe to the statement of the womans father, is broadly to question the locus of those who question the incident, given that the girl and her father are not complaining. This justification is a common one. It also ignores a fundamental fact: illegal surveillance by the state is the concern of the entire populace. In India today, violations of privacy, which have become increasingly common, arent seen as anathema to ones foundational civil liberties. The lack of a systematic indignation at such infractions, it might be argued, is an indication that these values are not cherish-worthy and are, in fact, antiquated given the age of publicity that we live in. To snoop into a persons private space, therefore, whether in the interest of security or otherwise, does not vitiate your liberty: If youve got nothing to hide, youve got nothing to fear, goes the argument. But such a response, acceptable as it may have come to become, is inherently backward and opposed to all tenets of a liberal, democratic polity. Privacy, contrary to the elitist notions attached to it, protects us from the abuse of those in power. It isnt a luxury. On the contrary, it is integral to our development as human beings. The two Boston lawyers, Samuel Warren and Louis Brandeis, put it better than anyone in their 1890 essay in theHarvard Law Review . The intensity and complexity of life, attendant upon advancing civilization, they wrote, have rendered necessary some retreat from the world, and man, under the refining influence of culture, has become more sensitive to publicity, so that solitude and privacy have become more essential to the individual; but modern enterprise and invention have, through invasions upon his privacy, subjected him to mental pain and distress, far greater than could be inflicted by mere bodily injury. Right to privacy in India Right to privacy in India Right to privacy in India Right to privacy in India Right to privacy in India The Indian Constitution does not expressly grant a right to privacy. It was only in 1994, in Rajagopal v. State of Tamil Nadu, that the Supreme Court, though its interpretive force, found privacy to be inherent in a persons right to personal liberty: It is the right, wrote Justice B.P. Jeevan Reddy, to be let alone. In 1997, when considering the legality of certain wiretaps, the court, i n PUCL v. Union of India , established a set of guidelines to be followed in intercepting messages, in a public emergency or in the interest of public safety. But these guidelines are seldom followed. Compounding the matter is the utter legislative inaction in the field. In April, the Union government craftily trundled out the Central Monitoring System (CMS), amid almost no uproar, giving itself the absolute power to monitor all phone and online communication in the country. The CMS provides the government direct access to every one of Indias telecommunication networks; it has removed the earlier obstacle of having to rely on the service providers for such information. But there is little in the public domain indicating the complete nature and scope of this programme. The absence of a facilitating law, providing legislative backing to the CMS, only makes matters worse; much like Indias chief investigative agencies, the programme is a creature of the executive. In other words, there is no procedure established by law to lend any credibility to what is an unquestionable transgression of our personal liberty. The CMS is a distinctly anti-libertarian measure adopted by distinctly anti-democratic means. In June 2013, The Hindu revealed that the CMS would substantially enhance the governments surveillance and interception capabilities. The programme, contrary to initial expectations, does not replace the existing surveillance equipment deployed by mobile operators and Internet Service Providers, but rather multiplies the governments forensic capabilities. The state can today navigate through every telecommunication network in the country, and it possesses the unique power to read all our personal messages, whether communicated by email, text or other online means. The government, a s The Hindu reported, can, in fact, access your search history and the websites that you visit. It can even go through partially written emails floundering in your drafts. As things stand, two primary laws control access to communication data in India. But neither expressly authorises surveillance nor does enough to protect privacy. It effectively only adds to the vacuum. The Indian Telegraph Act of 1885, a colonial-era law that continues to govern telecommunication law, gives the government the power to access information in the interest of public safety or in a public emergency neither of which has been defined with any level of precision. The Information Technology Act of 2000, as amended in 2008, permits the government to intercept, monitor or decrypt information in the interest of the sovereignty or integrity of India, defence of India, security of the state, friendly relations with foreign states, or public order, or to prevent incitement to the commission of any offence. The lack of adequate safeguards to our privacy in both of these laws is telling the intention in these laws, if anything, appears to be to strengthen the governments prying powers as http://upscportal.com 121 121 121 121 121 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be opposed to protecting civil liberties. The recent snooping incident in Gujarat might have emanated out of a multitude of factors that are not yet directly apparent. But the wanton ease with which it was ordered speaks to a deeper rot. We should use this as an opportunity to ask ourselves why we value our privacy. And to question how the government has assumed almost stealthily, and without the approval of the legislature the power to conduct wide-ranging surveillance unchecked by any independent authority. To allow programmes such as the CMS to be piloted without due process of law would amount to a renunciation of our most fundamental freedoms. It would grant the government, as the Professor of Law, Daniel J. Solve wrote, not merely Orwellian control over our lives, but would also lead to a corresponding Kafkaesque problem: a suffocating powerlessness and vulnerability created by the court systems use of personal data and its denial to the protagonist of any knowledge of or participation in the process. Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Banking on women Banking on women Banking on women Banking on women Banking on women To the long list of 28 public sector banks in India, one more was added with the inauguration of the Bharatiya Mahila Bank (BMB) on Tuesday by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. The bank is unique in more ways than one. It will focus predominantly on women, apart from being staffed largely by them. To the BMB will go the distinction of being the first-ever public sector bank to have been set up by the government, as the others came into being through nationalisation of existing private banks. Women, who constitute about half the countrys population, account for 80 per cent lower per capita credit compared to men. This is largely because they are unable to offer collateral for borrowings given that property is invariably held in the name of the father, husband or son. That there is a gender bias in banking services is clear. It was precisely this that led to the creation of womens cooperative banks such as the Shri Mahila Sewa Sahakari Bank Ltd. which extended financial support to self- employed women in the unorganised sector. Yet, it is not clear if an all-new, full-service bank is the way to get more women into the financial system. Could not the same objective have been achieved through the existing public sector banks that have an extensive network in rural areas, where financial exclusion of women is the most acute? The BMB will face the same issues as other public sector banks; if anything, it will be handicapped even more by the fact that it is a start-up operation. For example, if the bank is to be commercially viable, it needs an extensive network in the cities where it can attract deposits, but its lending focus has to be in the rural areas where women are marginalised. How does it solve this network dilemma? In the first year of operations at least, the bank will be opening branches only in the cities. The initial year or two will largely determine if the concept of the BMB will be a success. The bank will have to conceive and devise innovative products that will encourage women to bank with it. The bank has already indicated that it will offer higher deposit rates to attract savings bank customers, but this should not result in pushing up lending rates. It will have to tailor products for the unorganised sector where lending is largely without collateral. The bank is likely to be hamstrung in recruiting experienced staff; public sector banks are reported to be facing a staff shortage. Even assuming that staff from other banks can be attracted by means of promotions and higher salaries, it is doubtful if they will agree to move to rural branches. How well the BMB handles these challenges is what will decide if the idea will be a success or if the BMB will turn out to be just another public sector bank. Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Issues of sexual Issues of sexual Issues of sexual Issues of sexual Issues of sexual assault: the Tehelka case assault: the Tehelka case assault: the Tehelka case assault: the Tehelka case assault: the Tehelka case The Goa government and police have taken the right step in filing a First Information Report (FIR) against Tarun Tejpal, Editor-in-chief of Tehelka magazine, for sexual assault on a woman colleague while she was fulfilling work-related responsibilities. Sexual offences are cognisable crimes and the state is duty bound to take action if the information of such a crime is in the public domain. Tehelka has often advocated the rights of women and other sections of the marginalised and therefore its admirers are shocked and angered at the ethical and moral collapse of the organisation as soon as it was called upon to use the same standards for itself as it had rightly demanded of others. All too often, because of the nature of the offence, reporting of a sexual crime depends on whether or not the victim of the crime is able to speak about it and report it and it is a shocking reality that this heinous crime is also one of the most under-reported. The reasons are many. Social stigmatisation, traumatising legal procedures, the hostile attitude of public officials, discouragement from families and friends who want to protect the victim from the toll that fighting a case may impose on her, are some of the often compelling factors that impose silence around the crime. This, in effect, works to the benefit of the perpetrator of the crime. In the case of a working woman, almost always an employee subordinate to the man who has sexually assaulted her, reporting the crime is all the more difficult because of the apprehension that it would involve, in addition to everything else, the loss of livelihood. In case after case this is what happens: the woman who dares to complain of sexual harassment against her boss loses her job. The young woman journalist in t he Tehelka case showed exemplary courage in reporting the crime to the second-in-command, the Managing Editor, Shoma Chaudhury. But she was let down again by those she had trusted. Ms Chaudhury, who received her complaint, chose to accept the farce of an apology offered by Mr. Tejpal, chose to whitewash his crime, chose to accept his self-serving, self-decided, self- imposed punishment of a six-month sabbatical. She further defended her decision by the outrageous statement that it was more than what was asked for after all, he didnt just apologise, but look, theres atonement too, six whole months of not being the Chief http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 122 122 122 122 122 http://upscportal.com Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses http: / / www. upscportal . com/ ci vi l servi ces/ courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be http: / / ci vi l servi cesmentor. com/ mag/ subscri be Boss. If other rapists locked up in the jails of India had been beneficiaries of such an approach, they would all be lining up at the doors of their victims, offering their apologies, promising months of atonement. It is easier after all to atone in the circle of loving friends and families than to face the law and the consequences of your crime. The crime is rape The crime is rape The crime is rape The crime is rape The crime is rape And make no mistake, going by the victims complaint under the amended Indian Penal Codes definition of rape in Section 375B read with Explanation 1, the crime committed was rape, which if proved, gets the accused a jail sentence of a minimum of seven years. Further, under the amended law, under Section 376(2)(f) of the IPC where the offence of rape is committed by a relative, guardian, teacher, or a person in a position of trust or authority and also under Section 376(2)(k) where anyone being in a position of control and dominance over a woman commits rape on the woman the offence is considered an aggravated form of rape and the punishment is enhanced to a minimum of ten years. TheTehelka case would invite these provisions. The gravity of the offence was sought to be concealed by Tehelka i n another way too, and regretfully some women activists and women lawyers, in their misplaced arguments on several television channels, became party to this exercise in deception. It was put out that the complainant herself would prefer that the case be referred to an in-house committee mandated by the law against sexual harassment at the workplace. Actually the Act is in limbo as the Central government has failed to draft the Rules. Si nce Tehelka did not have such a committee, it set one up within a day. This was then showcased as a serious effort by Tehelka to address the grievance of the young journalist. Agency and the law Agency and the law Agency and the law Agency and the law Agency and the law The other argument advanced to support Tehelka s handling of the case is that a complainant has agency, the capacity to take her own decisions, and that therefore if she chooses not to report the crime to the police and chooses other ways of finding justice or even remaining silent, that is her busi- ness and should be respected. The as- sertion of agency by a rape victim in relation to the action to take against her tormentor requires that she has full in- formation of the different laws, that she has the time to think things through, the pros and cons of not going to the police to file a complaint. Was she informed that the 2013 Act against sexual harassment deals with offences of a lesser nature? Was she informed that the punishment un- der the Act could not in any way match the crime that was inflicted on her? Did she know that her job was protected by the law? Was she offered the best legal advice and support to fight for justice? Without such a framework, the use of the argument of agency ends up as a shield to protect the accused from be- ing prosecuted under the anti-rape laws. In cases such as Tehelka , it is essential for the organisation and management to advise the victim to file a case with the police and to provide all legal help, which would better help her make an informed choice. In fact, the employer herself un- der the Vishaka judgment had a duty to report the offence to the police. Men in positions of power, who use that posi- tion to exploit women employees for sexual gratification cannot be allowed to get away with it. And what about Gujarat? And what about Gujarat? And what about Gujarat? And what about Gujarat? And what about Gujarat? There is also a political dimension to thi s. Si nce Tehelka s st i ng operations had exposed the Bharatiya Janata Partys corruption and underhand dealings, the present case has provided the BJP with an opportunity to hit back. In fact, the case highlights the double standards being used by that party. If in this case the Goa government run by the BJP can take suo motu notice of a cognisable crime, why is the same alacrity not being shown in Gujarat, also led by the BJP, where in violation of the law a young woman known to the Chief Minister was reportedly put under intense surveillance by the Anti-Terrorist Squad, on his orders? This constitutes a cognisable crime that requires the State to file an FIR for the violation of Section 5.2 of the Indian Telegraph Act and possibly of Section 354D(ii), which deals with the offence of stalking a woman under the amended IPC. The crimes differ but both are cognisable and therefore the same processes of law should be as applicable in Gujarat as they are in Goa. Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu Courtesy-The Hindu ENVIRONMENT
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For Full Information about Online Coaching Click below Link: http://upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://upscportal.com 123 123 123 123 123 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com Iran and P5+1 reach interim deal Iran and P5+1 reach interim deal Iran and P5+1 reach interim deal Iran and P5+1 reach interim deal Iran and P5+1 reach interim deal Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe One of the thorniest disputes between Iran and the international community is over Irans nuclear programme. Here is an explainer to the crisis. Why is there a crisis? Why is there a crisis? Why is there a crisis? Why is there a crisis? Why is there a crisis? In short, because world powers suspect Iran has not been honest about its nuclear programme and is seeking to build a nuclear bomb. Iran says it has the right to nuclear energy - and stresses that its nuclear programme is for peaceful purposes only. What led to the crisis? What led to the crisis? What led to the crisis? What led to the crisis? What led to the crisis? Irans nuclear programme became public in 2002, when an opposition group revealed secret activity including a uranium enrichment plant at Natanz and a heavy-water reactor at Arak. The Iranian government subsequently agreed to inspections by the UN nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). But the IAEA was unable to confirm Irans assertions that its nuclear programme was exclusively for peaceful purposes and that it had not sought to develop nuclear weapons. This led the US and its European allies to press Iran to stop enriching uranium, which can be used for civilian nuclear purposes but also - if enriched to 90% purity - to build nuclear bombs. However, the election of President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad in 2005 halted any progress in talks, and the IAEA referred Iran to the UN Security Council for failing to comply with its Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) Safeguards Agreement. Since then, the Security Council has adopted six resolutions requiring Iran to stop enriching uranium, some imposing sanctions. The US and EU have imposed additional sanctions on Iranian oil exports and banks since 2012, crippling Irans economy. Despite this, Iran continues to enrich uranium. In 2009, it disclosed the existence of a new underground facility at Fordo. There have been multiple rounds of negotiations between Iran and the so-called P5+1 - the five UN Security Council permanent members US, UK, France, China, Russia and Germany. For years the two sides failed to make headway. But the mood changed after the election of Hassan Rouhani as president in 2013. What have Iran and the P5+1 What have Iran and the P5+1 What have Iran and the P5+1 What have Iran and the P5+1 What have Iran and the P5+1 agreed? agreed? agreed? agreed? agreed? On 24 November 2013, negotiators reached an interim deal after intensive talks in Geneva. It marked the biggest breakthrough in about a decade of on-off meetings. Iran agreed to curb its enrichment activities in return for an easing of some sanctions. This first step agreement will apply for six months, giving time for a comprehensive solution to the crisis to be found. Under the interim deal, Iran agreed to halt uranium enrichment above the level of 5% purity, reduce its existing stockpile of medium-enriched uranium, not increase the number of centrifuges (used to purify uranium), suspend work at its reactor at Arak (currently under construction), and give UN inspectors more information and greater access to enrichment facilities. http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 124 124 124 124 124 http://upscportal.com Iran and P5+1 reach interim deal Iran and P5+1 reach interim deal Iran and P5+1 reach interim deal Iran and P5+1 reach interim deal Iran and P5+1 reach interim deal Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe In return, the world powers agreed to limited, temporary... reversible sanctions relief. This includes allowing Iran to trade in gold and precious metals, suspending some sanctions on its motor industry, permitting petrochemical exports and giving Iran access to $4.2bn from oil sales. The US says the measures could be worth $7bn in revenue to Iran. They also agreed not to impose any new nuclear-related sanctions for six months. Critically for Iran, its chief negotiator Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said Iran had not given up its right to enrich uranium - one of the sticking points which had held up a deal. The US however denied any such right had been conceded. Iran nuclear deal: Key points Iran nuclear deal: Key points Iran nuclear deal: Key points Iran nuclear deal: Key points Iran nuclear deal: Key points Both sides committed to a series of steps which will last for six months, while a more conclusive deal is negotiated. Here are the key points of what the two sides agreed: What Iran will do What Iran will do What Iran will do What Iran will do What Iran will do Halt enrichment of uranium above 5% purity. (Uranium enriched to 3.5-5% can be used for nuclear power reactors, 20% for nuclear medicines and 90% for a nuclear bomb.) Neutralise its stockpile of near-20%-enriched uranium, either by diluting it to less than 5% or converting it to a form which cannot be further enriched Not install any more centrifuges (the machines used to enrich uranium) Leave half to three-quarters of centrifuges installed in Natanz and Fordo enrichment facilities inoperable (Read our guide to Irans nuclear facilities) Not build any more enrichment facilities Not increase its stockpile of 3.5% low-enriched uranium Halt work on the construction of its heavy-water reactor at Arak, not attempt to produce plutonium there (an alternative to highly enriched uranium used for an atomic weapon) Provide daily access to Natanz and Fordo sites to IAEA inspectors and access to other facilities, mines and mills Provide long-sought information on the Arak reactor and other data What the What the What the What the What the World Powers will do World Powers will do World Powers will do World Powers will do World Powers will do Provide limited, temporary, targeted, and reversible [sanctions] relief. See Q&A: Sanctions Not impose further nuclear- related sanctions if Iran meets its commitments Suspend certain sanctions on trade in gold and precious metals, Iran s automotive sector, and its petrochemical exports Licence safety-related repairs and inspections inside Iran for certain Iranian airlines Transfer $4.2bn (2.6bn) to Iran in instalments from sales of its oil What has been the reaction to What has been the reaction to What has been the reaction to What has been the reaction to What has been the reaction to the deal ? the deal ? the deal ? the deal ? the deal ? The two sides in the negotiations have hailed the agreement. President Barack Obama said it would cut off Irans most likely paths to a [nuclear] bomb, while his Secretary of State John Kerry said the agreement would make the region safer for its allies, including Israel. President Rouhani also welcomed the deal, saying No matter what interpretations are given, Irans right to enrichment has been recognised. Irans Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, who has final say in nuclear matters, called it an achievement and a success. The deal however has been sharply criticised by Israel, which sees Irans nuclear programme as a potential threat to its existence. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said it was not a historic agreement. It was a historic mistake. He said Israel was not bound by this agreement. Why does the West suspect Why does the West suspect Why does the West suspect Why does the West suspect Why does the West suspect Iran is seeking nuclear Iran is seeking nuclear Iran is seeking nuclear Iran is seeking nuclear Iran is seeking nuclear weapons? weapons? weapons? weapons? weapons? Irans Supreme Leader, who is reported to have issued a fatwa against nuclear weapons, declared in 2009: We fundamentally reject nuclear weapons and prohibit the use and production of nuclear weapons. But the IAEA published a report in 2011 claiming credible information that Iran had carried out activities relevant to the development of a nuclear explosive device. The report drew attention to a military complex at Parchin, south of Tehran, which the IAEA has been unable to visit since 2005. Reports surfaced in 2000 that a large containment vessel had been built there to conduct hydrodynamic experiments. The IAEA said such experiments, which involve using explosives in conjunction with nuclear material or surrogates, were strong indicators of possible weapon development. The US has alleged that Iran had a nuclear weapons programme in 2003, but that senior Iranian leaders stopped it when it was discovered. How does Iran justify its How does Iran justify its How does Iran justify its How does Iran justify its How does Iran justify its refusal to obey the Security refusal to obey the Security refusal to obey the Security refusal to obey the Security refusal to obey the Security Council resolutions? Council resolutions? Council resolutions? Council resolutions? Council resolutions? The technology used to enrich uranium to the level needed for nuclear power can also be used to enrich it to the higher level needed for a nuclear explosion. Iran hid an http://upscportal.com 125 125 125 125 125 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com Iran and P5+1 reach interim deal Iran and P5+1 reach interim deal Iran and P5+1 reach interim deal Iran and P5+1 reach interim deal Iran and P5+1 reach interim deal Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe enrichment programme for 18 years, so the Security Council says that until Irans peaceful intentions can be fully established, it should stop enrichment and other nuclear activities. Iran has said it is simply doing what it is allowed to do under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, which allows signatory states to enrich uranium to be used as fuel for power generation. Such states have to remain under inspection by the IAEA. Iran is under inspection, though not under the strictest rules allowed because it will not agree to them. Could Iran build a nuclear Could Iran build a nuclear Could Iran build a nuclear Could Iran build a nuclear Could Iran build a nuclear bomb if it chose to? bomb if it chose to? bomb if it chose to? bomb if it chose to? bomb if it chose to? US President Barack Obama told Israeli television in March 2013 that his administration believed it would take over a year or so for Iran to actually develop a nuclear weapon if it decided to do so. That would mean producing enough weapons-grade uranium; fashioning it into a warhead; and being able to deliver it by airplane, ship or missile. Experts at the Washington-based Institute for Science and International Security said in a report that Iran could generate weapons- grade uranium in a matter of months. But the institute cautioned that the bomb-making process is separate and would be done in secret, so estimating timelines was extremely difficult. In fact, experts have been predicting for decades that Iran was on the verge of building a nuclear bomb. While the UN can monitor the amount of uranium, the relative skills of its scientists involved in nuclear and weapons research are harder to assess. P5+1 : Some Facts P5+1 : Some Facts P5+1 : Some Facts P5+1 : Some Facts P5+1 : Some FactsThe P5+1 is a group of six world powers which in 2006 joined the diplomatic efforts with Iran with regard to its nuclear program. The term refers to the P5 or five permanent members of the UN Security Council, namely United States, Russia, China, United Kingdom, and France, plus Germany. P5+1 is often referred to as the E3+3 (or E3/EU+3) by European countries.Background Background Background Background BackgroundChina, Russia, and the United States joined the three EU3 countries in June 2006 to offer another proposal for comprehensive negotiations with Iran. Up to now, the UN Security Council has adopted six resolutions in response to the Iranian nuclear program. The first resolution (1696) was adopted in July of 2006 which demanded that Iran halt its uranium enrichment-related and reprocessing activities.The next three years saw the adoption of three more resolutions, (1737) in December of 2006, (1747) in March of 2007, and (1803) in March of 2008, which have imposed gradual sanctions on Iranian individuals and entities believed to be involved in Irans nuclear and missile programs.UN Security Council Resolution (1835), adopted in September of 2008, restated the Security Councils demands made in resolution (1696) of 2006 but without imposing additional sanctions.The last Security Council resolution (1929), adopted in June of 2010, saw the expansion of more sanctions on Iran for its lack of cooperation and its continued uranium enrichment- related and reprocessing activities. Dr. A Q Shekh Dr. A Q Shekh Dr. A Q Shekh Dr. A Q Shekh Dr. A Q Shekh http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 126 126 126 126 126 http://upscportal.com Innovation Fund Corpus: Structure & Challenges Innovation Fund Corpus: Structure & Challenges Innovation Fund Corpus: Structure & Challenges Innovation Fund Corpus: Structure & Challenges Innovation Fund Corpus: Structure & Challenges Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe I ntroducti on I ntroducti on I ntroducti on I ntroducti on I ntroducti on Innovation today is increasingly going beyond the confines of formal R&D to redefine everything. Today innovation can mean new and unique applications of old technologies, using design to develop new products and services, new processes and structures to improve performance in diverse areas, organisational creativity, and public sector initiatives to enhance delivery of services. Innovation is being seen as a means of creating sustainable and cost effective solutions for people at the bottom of the pyramid, and is being viewed as an important strategy for inclusive growth in developing economies. Realising that innovation is the engine for the growth of prosperity and national competitiveness in the 21st century, the President of India has declared 2010 as the Decade of Innovation. To take this agenda forward, the Office of Adviser to the PM on Public Information Infrastructure and Innovations (PIII) is working on developing a national strategy on innovation with a focus on an Indian model of inclusive growth. The idea is to create an indigenous model of development suited to Indian needs and challenges. Towards this end, the Prime Minister has approved the setting up of a National Innovation Council (NInC) under the Chairmanship of Mr. Sam Pitroda, Adviser to the PM on PIII to discuss, analyse and help implement strategies for inclusive innovation in India and prepare a Roadmap for Innovation 2010-2020. NIC would be the first step in creating a crosscutting system which will provide mutually reinforcing policies, recommendations and methodologies to implement and boost innovation performance in the country. India has a long tradition of innovation and a significant pool of qualified people, both within country as well as the diaspora, presently engaged in innovative activities. This talent pool has to be leveraged to drive the innovation agenda. Further, there is also a need to capture the multiple innovations happening in various domains such as government, R&D labs, universities, and across sectors, to give an impetus to the innovation process in the country. NIC will act as a platform to facilitate this engagement and collaboration with domain experts, stakeholders and key participants to create an innovation movement in India. The aim is to herald a mindset change and create a push at the grassroots level so that more and more people in education, business, government, NGOs, urban and rural development engaged in innovative activities are co-opted and are part of shaping the national level innovation strategy. Innovation Challenge Innovation Challenge Innovation Challenge Innovation Challenge Innovation Challenge The first challenge launched by the National Innovation Council was a call for proposals launched in October 2011 to reduce the drudgery of the working class population. It was an acknowledgement of the collective failure to use our scientific and technological manpower to address problems of the average working http://upscportal.com 127 127 127 127 127 http://www.civilservicesmentor.com Innovation Fund Corpus: Structure & Challenges Innovation Fund Corpus: Structure & Challenges Innovation Fund Corpus: Structure & Challenges Innovation Fund Corpus: Structure & Challenges Innovation Fund Corpus: Structure & Challenges Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe class citizen. The challenge was to provide decent conditions of work to labour including ideas that would improve the design of work implements, processes, and models that improve work conditions. This went with the caveat that proposals should not be labour displacing. 468 proposals were received in a period of four months and finally six proposals were shortlisted after several rounds of screening. These six proposals, as detailed below, were awarded by Shri Sam Pitroda, Adviser to PM and Chairman, National Innovation Council along with Shri Jairam Ramesh, Honble Minister for Rural Development and Kumari Selja, Honble Minister for Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation at a function on 4th April 2012 at PIB Conference Hall, Shastri Bhavan. I ndi a I ndi a I ndi a I ndi a I ndi a Inclusive Innovation Fund Inclusive Innovation Fund Inclusive Innovation Fund Inclusive Innovation Fund Inclusive Innovation Fund A key proposal emerging from National Innovation Council deliberations: is the proposal to establish the India Inclusive Innovation Fund. This Council effort seeks to establish a Fund that will drive and catalyse the creation of an ecosystem of enterprise, entrepreneurship, and venture capital, targeted at innovative solutions for the bottom of the pyramid. The Inclusive Innovation Fund is built on the principle that innovative enterprise can profitably, scalably, and competitively engage citizens at the bottom of the economic pyramid: and, in doing so, provide goods and services that will transform their lives for the better. The Fund proposes to invest in a new generation of Indian entrepreneurs who will build and are in the process of building world class enterprises that focus on the problems of the poor, without compromising on economic success. In doing so, the Fund will help create a new Indian model of innovation: one that bridges growth and equitability. The Fund will focus on providing risk capital funding to enterprises that create and deliver technologies and solutions aimed at enhancing the quality of life at the Bottom of the Pyramid; and subject to applicable law work with other funds with objectives similar to its own. The Fund will support investment at different stages of the enterprise development cycle from early stages, through later phases of scaling-up of potentially successful solutions and business models. Crucially, the Fund will also explore the possibility of establishing soft incubation capacity and resources expertise and programmes that will support individual investee entrepreneurs and companies, in successful enterprise development and performance. This effort will address social impact objectives, by kick- starting an ecosystem of capacity- building around BOP-focused enterprises and entrepreneurship; and economic return objectives, by providing entrepreneurial teams with the capacities needed to successfully deliver on their ideas. The best entrepreneurial and technological talent, across the world, has tended to focus on the problems of the rich. The Inclusive Innovation Fund will break this convention, investing in a new generation of Indian entrepreneurial talent, capable of innovating in products, processes, and business models: successfully combining profitability and business excellence, with transformational socioeconomic impact. Progress Progress Progress Progress Progress The Honble Finance Minister of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee, has announced an initial investment by the Government of India in the Fund. The Fund is currently in the process of conceptualisation, design, and development to ensure that it is able to deliver on the mandate described above. Gl obal Gl obal Gl obal Gl obal Gl obal Innovation Roundtable 2013 Innovation Roundtable 2013 Innovation Roundtable 2013 Innovation Roundtable 2013 Innovation Roundtable 2013 The National Innovation Council (NInC), Government of India launched the Global Innovation Roundtable (GIR) as a policy dialogue to outline a new paradigm of inclusive innovation. NInC has hosted two such Roundtables in 2011 and 2012 in New Delhi, India which saw participation from heads of Innovation policy from Governments across the world, as well as, leading global Innovation experts. Through institutionalising the Roundtables the aim was to create a global platform for sharing experiences, best practices and enabling collaborations around the theme of inclusive innovation for addressing the challenges of access, equity, excellence and inclusion. The discussions in the previous Roundtables focused on stimulating greater global cooperation across countries, formation of networks, sharing experiences to make innovations a prime driver for collective solution building, and discussing innovations that have addressed the needs of the Base of the Pyramid (BOP) population. The discussions also echoed the need to have a long-term approach to fostering innovation as well as increased collaboration among the public sector, private enterprises, social sector and the venture capital industry to support programmes and policies that enhance the national innovative capacity. GIR 2012 GIR 2012 GIR 2012 GIR 2012 GIR 2012 The National Innovation Council is now preparing to host the Third edition of the Global Innovation Roundtable on November 18-19, http://www.civilservicesmentor.com 128 128 128 128 128 http://upscportal.com Innovation Fund Corpus: Structure & Challenges Innovation Fund Corpus: Structure & Challenges Innovation Fund Corpus: Structure & Challenges Innovation Fund Corpus: Structure & Challenges Innovation Fund Corpus: Structure & Challenges Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) Online Coaching For IAS Pre & Mains Exams (At just Rs 100 per Month) http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses http://www.upscportal.com/civilservices/courses Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine Click Here to Subscribe PRINT COPY of Civil Services Mentor Magazine http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe http://civilservicesmentor.com/mag/subscribe 2013. More details will be provided as the programme develops. The National Innovation Council (NInC), Government of India organised the Second Global Innovation Roundtable, themed Innovations to address challenges of access, equity and excellence on 1st and 2nd November 2012 in New Delhi. The heads of innovation from over 15 governments and several industry and innovation experts discussed the less charted road of broad-basing innovations to meet key development challenges. At the concluding session on Collaboration on Innovation, chaired by Mr Pitroda, numerous experiences, insights and ideas shared by the participants were galvanised and distilled and the collaboration opportunities in the following areas were discussed: Open Government: Open Government: Open Government: Open Government: Open Government: The Platform already developed for this could be adopted by other countries, and India could help implement. Crowdsourcing Innovation Crowdsourcing Innovation Crowdsourcing Innovation Crowdsourcing Innovation Crowdsourcing Innovation Platform: Platform: Platform: Platform: Platform: The Open Source Drug Discovery Platform developed by India for tuberculosis drug discovery could be used as a template for crowd sourcing in new areas of drug discovery. Innovation for Education: Innovation for Education: Innovation for Education: Innovation for Education: Innovation for Education: Existing educational content could be aggregated, filtered and indexed, under the guidance of global domain experts and made available on mobile devices like Aakash Innovati on for Heal th: Innovati on for Heal th: Innovati on for Heal th: Innovati on for Heal th: Innovati on for Heal th: Health content could also be aggregated and made available, just like educational content. Further, India s initiative for an Open Source Electronic health records system and tele-medicine could be adopted by other countries. Mr Pitroda also stated that next year the third edition of the Global Innovation Roundtable 2013 will be scheduled in India and will be done on a bigger scale with more participation and more time for discussion. In order to foster a grass-root bottoms-up approach to innovation and development and to arrive at solutions for local problems, which are sustainable and scalable, there is a need for seeking out and campaigning for ideas that have the potential to solve challenges. Accordingly, based on the innovative ideas received from the local people regarding developmental projects, a One MP One Idea Competition may be held in each Lok Sabha constituency annually to select the three best innovations for cash awards and certificate of appreciation for next five best innovations. State Innovation Councils State Innovation Councils State Innovation Councils State Innovation Councils State Innovation Councils NInC is facilitating the setting up of State Innovation Councils in each State to create a cross-cutting system to boost innovation performance in the country. The State Innovation Councils will replicate at the State level what NInC is undertaking at the national level. The Councils would drive the innovation agenda in the states and harness the core competencies, local talent, resources and capabilities to create new opportunities. Each State Innovation Council will support its respective State Government to promote innovation in the State; encourage young talent and local universities, colleges, medium and small scale industries (MSME), and R&D institutes; map opportunities for innovation in the State; identify and reward talent in innovation and disseminate success stories; organise seminars, lectures, workshops on innovation; create a State innovation portal to educate and drive awareness or innovation; and provide input into the Innovation Roadmap 2010-2020 for the State. Sectoral Innovation Councils Sectoral Innovation Councils Sectoral Innovation Councils Sectoral Innovation Councils Sectoral Innovation Councils In order to drive innovative strategies in key sectors and create multiple roadmaps the NInC is encouraging the creation of multiple Sectoral Innovation Councils aligned to Union Government Ministries which would enhance innovation capabilities in respective sectors. Letters were sent from the Chairman, NInC to all the Union Government Ministers followed by a workshop for Secretaries. Further to which the following sectors aligned to Union Ministries have constituted the Council. Dhruv Nishad Dhruv Nishad Dhruv Nishad Dhruv Nishad Dhruv Nishad
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Papers HINDI(2013) 9789381362358 220 29 C03-UPSC Mains:- Geography Questions Papers 9789382732440 155 30 C04-UPSC Mains:- Sociology Questions Papers 9789382732433 120 31 C05-UPSC MAINS:ENG.Hindi Essay Questions Papers 9789382732464 155 32 C06-UPSC MAINS:- LAW Questions Papers 9789382732426 150 http://www.upscportal.com Name: ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................ Correspondance Address: ..................................................................................................................................................................................... Email: .................................................................................................................PIN CODE: ..................................................................... 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Solved Paper 9789382732679 290 36 C12-UPSC MAINS:Hindi Literature Paper 9789381362525 140 37 C13-IAS MAINS HISTORY SOLVED PAPER2002-2012 9789382732686 275 38 C14-THE VAULT OF 1,2,3 & 5 MARKER (PART 1) 9789381362808 295 39 C15-THE VAULT OF 1,2,3 & 5 MARKER (PART- II) 9789381362815 225 40 D02-SSC CGL GUIDE 2012 9789381362051 360 41 D03-A COMPLETE GUIDE FOR SSC 10+2 LEVEL EXAMINATION 9789381362679 340 42 D04-SSC PRACTICE PAPERS 9789382732075 175 43 D05-SSC SOLVED PAPERS 9789382732082 175 44 D06- SUCCESS BOOK SERIES GEOGRAPHY 9789382732181 80 45 D07- SUCCESS BOOK SERIES HISTORY 9789382732174 80 46 D08-SUCCESS BOOK SERIES INDIAN POLITY 9789382732228 75 47 D09-SUCCESS BOOK SERIES GENERAL SCIENCE 9789382732198 80 48 D10-SUCCESS BOOK SERIES GENERAL KNOWLEDGE 9789382732204 75 49 D11-SUCCESS BOOK SERIES INDIAN ECONOMY 9789382732211 80 50 D12-SUCCESS BOOK SERIES BHARTIYA RAJVYAVASTHA 9789382732303 80 51 D13-SUCCESS BOOK SERIES BHARTIYA ITIHAS 9789382732297 85 52 D14-SUCCESS BOOK SERIES BHUGOL PARYAVARAN 9789382732310 70 53 D15-An Authentic Book for SSC Tier - 2 Examination 9789382732600 250 54 E03-SBI. 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Solved papers (Hindi 9789382732525 165 65 E14-I.B.P.S .P.O GUIDE (ENGLISH) 9789382732471 365 66 F01-CDS Solved Paper 9789381362129 295 67 F02-NDA NA Solved Paper 9789381362136 325 68 F03-SCRA-Practice Book Solved Papers 9789381362280 325 69 F04-A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE FOR CAPF 9789381362785 310 70 F05-NDA PRACTICE PAPERS 9789382732013 200 71 F06-SCRA PRACTICE PAPERS 9789382732051 220 72 F07-CDS PRACTICE PAPERS 9789382732037 200 73 F08-LIC AAO 9789382732341 390 74 F09-DSSSB(HINDI) 9789382732273 290 75 F10-DSSSB(ENGLISH) 9789382732280 320 76 F11-A Authentic Practice Book for Delhi Police S.I. & CAPFs S.I. | CISF (A.S.I) Examination 9789382732396 170 77 F12- A Authentic Guide for Delhi Police S.I. & CAPFs S.I. | CISF (A.S.I) Examination 9789382732389 375 78 F13-GIC Assistants in Public Sector: General Insurance Companies 9789382732594 380 79 F14-UTTER PRADESH LEKHPAL BHARTI PRARIKSHA 9789382732693 150 80 F15-utter pradesh arakshi bharti parikasha 2013 9789382732662 155 81 G01-Geography & Environment MCQ 9789381362402 160 82 G02-General Science MCQ 9789381362433 120 83 G03-Indian Polity MCQ 9789382732259 95 84 G04-Indian History MCQ 9789382732327 95 85 G05-Basic Numeracy MCQ 9789381362464 130 86 G06-Indian Economy & Year Book MCQ 9789381362440 120 87 G07-Reasoning Analytical Ability MCQ 9789381362488 130 88 G08-DIDS MCQ 9789381362471 130 89 G09-Bhartiya Itihas 9789381362587 95 90 G10-Bhartiya Rajyavyavastha 9789381362570 80 91 G11-SSC MCQ 9789381362686 80 All dispute will be settled in Delhi Jurisdiction. 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