Feb 2020 PDF

The IAS Gazette
A House Journal of APTI PLUS

FEBRUARY 2020
APTI PLUS
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INDIA'S
ENERGY POLICY
CORONAVIRUS
REPORT
BRU
SETTLEMENT
VYOM MITRA
FEBRUARY 2020 The IAS Gazette
Sources
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Live mint | The Economic Times
PIB | PRS | ET
Government & World Reports 1-19
(NITI Aayog, Budget, WEF
Economic Survey etc.) LAI HARAOBA FESTIVAL 1
Hindu Business Line | NCERTs
All standard reference books BHARATI SCRIPT 1
HEAD OFFICE & KOLKATA CAMPUS BIBI KA MAQBARA 2
Office no. 803, “AMP Mall Vaisaakkhi” YAKSHAGANA 3
8th floor, Salt Lake Sector – II,
Salt Lake City - AG 112, Kolkata-700091 WORLD HINDI DAY 2020 3
Ph: +91-8820341777
'PATOLA' SAREES 4
BHUBANESHWAR CAMPUS
NAGARDHAN EXCAVATIONS 5
Plot No. 2280, Biju Pattanaik
College Road,Jaydev Vihar, BOJJANNAKONDA 6
Bhubaneswar, Odisha-751013
Phone: 099383 86166 SAVITRIBAI PHULE 7
MEDIEVAL MONASTERIES AT MOGHALMARI 8
ELGIN ROAD
GURU GOBIND SINGH 9
Elgin Chambers, 3rd Floor, Room No. 302,
1A, Ashutosh Mukherjee Road, Kolkata-20 BHIMA-KOREGAON BATTLE 10
mail: apti.plus@gmail.com,
Ph: (033)-40645777, +91-8100765577 COLONIAL STRUCTURES RE-DEDICATED TO KOLKATA 10
CLASSICAL LANGUAGES 11
E-mail
apti.plus@gmail.com TRIBES IN ODISHA 12
theiasgazette@gmail.com BHIL TRIBE 13
Website: http://www.aptiplus.in
HARVEST FESTIVALS OF INDIA 14
SEKE LANGUAGE 15
Z-MORH TUNNEL 16
INDIA'S FIRST UNDERWATER METRO 17
TAAL VOLCANO 17
SEISMIC HAZARD MICROZONATION 18
TULU LANGUAGE 19
20-68
SWACHH BHARAT MISSION 20

ANTI-DEFECTION LAW 20
FOREIGNERS REGIONAL REGISTRATION OFFICE 21
RESTRUCTURING OF RAILWAY SERVICES 22
ELECTION IN DELHI 23
STATE CAN REGULATE MINORITY INSTITUTIONS 24
STATES CAN PROVIDE 10% EWS QUOTA 25
HUMAN RIGHTS 26
ACCESS TO INTERNET 26
Sources
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Economic Survey etc.) INTEGRATED ROAD ACCIDENT DATABASE 27
All standard reference books CURATIVE AND REVIEW PETITION 28
HEAD OFFICE & KOLKATA CAMPUS ARTICLE 131 OF THE CONSTITUTION 28
Office no. 803, “AMP Mall Vaisaakkhi” EMPOWERED MAYORS 29
Salt Lake City - AG 112, Kolkata-700091 E-MOBILITY MISSION 30
Ph: +91-8820341777
CENSUS 2021 31
BHUBANESHWAR CAMPUS
DEMOCRACY INDEX 31
College Road,Jaydev Vihar, CRIMINALISATION OF POLITICS 32
Phone: 099383 86166 PHASES OF CONSTITUTIONAL INTERPRETATION 33
LEGISLATIVE COUNCILS IN STATES 34
ELGIN ROAD
CANCER BURDEN 36
1A, Ashutosh Mukherjee Road, Kolkata-20 BUDGET 2020: HEALTHCARE SECTOR 36
Ph: (033)-40645777, +91-8100765577 PREVALENCE OF OBESITY IN CHILDREN 38
INDIA FIT REPORT 2020 39
E-mail
apti.plus@gmail.com CORONA VIRUS 39
theiasgazette@gmail.com STUDENTS STRUGGLE IN CAMPUSES 42
INFANT MORTALITY RATE (IMR) 42
CRIMES AGAINST WOMEN 43
VECTOR BORNE DISEASE MANAGEMENT 44
PROTECTION OF LANGUAGES UNDER 8TH SCHEDULE 44
SABARIMALA CASE TO BE EXAMINED
FOR ‘LARGER ISSUES’ 45
ANNUAL STATUS OF EDUCATION REPORT 2019 46
HALLMARKING FOR GOLD JEWELLERY 47
CAPITAL PUNISHMENT IN INDIA 47
SEXUAL HARASSMENT AT WORKPLACE 49
LEARNING FROM BRAZILIAN HEALTH SYSTEM 50
NEAT INITIATIVE 50
OBC SUB-CATEGORISATION 51
REVAMPING ICDS SCHEME 51
ISRAEL AND PALESTINE CONFLICT 53
INDIA- BRAZIL RELATIONS 55
HENLEY PASSPORT INDEX 57
Sources
PIB | PRS | ET
Economic Survey etc.) ROHINGYA CRISIS 57
All standard reference books SAGARMATHA DIALOGUE 59
HEAD OFFICE & KOLKATA CAMPUS INDIA - MALAYSIA RELATIONS 59
Office no. 803, “AMP Mall Vaisaakkhi” INDIA- EU RELATIONS 60
Salt Lake City - AG 112, Kolkata-700091 INDIA- FRANCE RELATIONS 62
Ph: +91-8820341777
INDIA- UAE RELATIONS 63
BHUBANESHWAR CAMPUS
RAISINA DIALOGUE 64
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Phone: 099383 86166 OPERATION VANILLA 65
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ELGIN ROAD
US-IRAN CONFLICT 66
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Ph: (033)-40645777, +91-8100765577
69-128
E-mail
apti.plus@gmail.com FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY AND BUDGET
theiasgazette@gmail.com MANAGEMENT ACT 69
Website: http://www.aptiplus.in FINANCIAL INCLUSION STRATEGY FOR 2024 70
COAL SECTOR 72
OPERATION TWIST 74
RETAIL INFLATION 75
AGRICULTURAL AND PROCESSED FOOD
PRODUCTS EXPORT DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY 76
NORTH-EAST GAS GRID 76
FARMERS’ INNOVATION FUND 77
INFRASTRUCTURE AGENDA 78
E-COMMERCE IN INDIA 78
AUTOMOBILE INDUSTRY SLOWDOWN 79
SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONES 80
UDAY SCHEME 81
CORRUPTION PERCEPTION INDEX (CPI) 82
ENEMY PROPERTY 83
SOVEREIGN GOLD BONDS SCHEME 83
SOCIAL MOBILITY INDEX 84
ELECTORAL BONDS 85
Sources
PIB | PRS | ET
Economic Survey etc.) INDIA- PAKISTAN TRADE RELATIONS 85
All standard reference books YEAR-END REVIEW 2019 - MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE,
COOPERATION AND FARMERS WELFARE 86
HEAD OFFICE & KOLKATA CAMPUS
Office no. 803, “AMP Mall Vaisaakkhi” e-NAM –ONE NATION ONE MARKET 87
Salt Lake City - AG 112, Kolkata-700091 IN-DEPTH REVIEW OF INDIA'S ENERGY POLICY REPORT 87
Ph: +91-8820341777 PURVODAYA IN STEEL SECTOR 88
BHUBANESHWAR CAMPUS YEAR-END REVIEW 2019 – MINISTRY OF POWER 90
College Road,Jaydev Vihar, UNIVERSAL BASIC INCOME (UBI) 91
Bhubaneswar, Odisha-751013 2021 CENSUS OF INDIA 92
Phone: 099383 86166
COMPETITION COMMISSION OF INDIA 92
ELGIN ROAD MAKE IN INDIA 93
1A, Ashutosh Mukherjee Road, Kolkata-20 VYOM MITRA 94
mail: apti.plus@gmail.com, GOLDILOCKS ZONE 95
Ph: (033)-40645777, +91-8100765577
LUNAR ECLIPSE 95
E-mail ARTIFICAL HUMAN 96
apti.plus@gmail.com
theiasgazette@gmail.com HOMO ERECTUS 97
Website: http://www.aptiplus.in BHUVAN PANCHAYAT 3.0 97
POLYCRACK TECHNOLOGY 98
107TH INDIAN SCIENCE CONGRESS 99
SUPER FAB LAB 100
GSAT 30 100
INTERNATIONAL SUMMIT ON WOMEN IN STEM 101
10 MORE WETLANDS IN INDIA GET
RAMSAR SITES TAG 104
NMCG CONSERVES WETLANDS IN GANGA
BASIN 105
GUIDELINES FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF WETLANDS
(CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT) 106
RULES, 2017THE ONE TRILLION TREES
INITIATIVE OF WORLD ECONOMIC FORUM (WEF) 107
INDIA SUCCESSFULLY PHASES OUT MOST
POTENT OZONE-DEPLETING CHEMICAL 107
Sources
PIB | PRS | ET
Economic Survey etc.) NEW MOEF GUIDELINES FOR ELEPHANT DEATHS
Hindu Business Line | NCERTs FROM ANTHRAX 108
All standard reference books
EASING OF CRZ RULES FOR ‘BLUE FLAG’ BEACHES 109
HEAD OFFICE & KOLKATA CAMPUS
Office no. 803, “AMP Mall Vaisaakkhi” BHITARKANIKA CENSUS INCREASE IN NUMBER OF
8th floor, Salt Lake Sector – II, SALTWATER CROCODILES 110
Salt Lake City - AG 112, Kolkata-700091
Ph: +91-8820341777 TURTLE REHAB CENTRE TO COME UP IN BIHAR 110
BHUBANESHWAR CAMPUS CHINESE PADDLEFISH BECOMES EXTINCT AFTER

Plot No. 2280, Biju Pattanaik LIVING FOR 200 MILLION YEARS 111
College Road,Jaydev Vihar, ONE MILLION SEABIRDS IN NORTH PACIFIC OCEAN 112
Phone: 099383 86166 PALAU BANNED 'REEF TOXIC' SUN CREAMS 113
CARBON DISCLOSURE PROJECT 2019 113
ELGIN ROAD
Elgin Chambers, 3rd Floor, Room No. 302, GLOBAL RISKS REPORT 2020 113
1A, Ashutosh Mukherjee Road, Kolkata-20 COMPENSATORY AFFORESTATION IN USED-UP
COAL INDIA MINES 115
Ph: (033)-40645777, +91-8100765577
GREEN CREDIT SCHEME 116
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LINKING SANITATION, SOLID WASTE
apti.plus@gmail.com
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TO AGRICULTURE 117
Website: http://www.aptiplus.in AUSTRALIAN BUSHFIRES 117
AFSPA IN MANIPUR 119
AK-203 ASSAULT RIFLES 120
GOCO MODEL IN ARMY 121
DEPARTMENT OF MILITARY AFFAIRS 121
FREE SPEECH ON INTERNET 122
BRU SETTLEMENT 122
ASSAM’S NDFB FACTION CALLS TRUCE 123
NATIONAL INVESTIGATION AGENCY (NIA) 124
K-4 BALLISTIC MISSILE 124
SUBMARINE PROJECT 125
A-SAT MISSILE 126
AGREEMENT WITH BODO GROUPS 126
INDIAN CYBER CRIME COORDINATION CENTRE 127
K9-VAJRA-T GUN 128
Sources
PIB | PRS | ET
Government & World Reports GS-IV 56-94
129-132
Economic Survey etc.) TERRORISM, STATE ACTION AND HUMAN RIGHTS 129
All standard reference books ETHICAL IDEALS IN LIFE 130
HEAD OFFICE & KOLKATA CAMPUS HOMOSEXUALITY 131
Office no. 803, “AMP Mall Vaisaakkhi”
8th floor, Salt Lake Sector – II, MCQs
Salt Lake City - AG 112, Kolkata-700091
133
Ph: +91-8820341777
BHUBANESHWAR CAMPUS
College Road,Jaydev Vihar,
Phone: 099383 86166
ELGIN ROAD
1A, Ashutosh Mukherjee Road, Kolkata-20
Ph: (033)-40645777, +91-8100765577
E-mail
apti.plus@gmail.com
theiasgazette@gmail.com
Arise, awake and stop not till the goal is reached.

- Swami Vivekananda
1
LAI HARAOBA FESTIVAL

GS-I ART & CULTURE
Context
 Recently the Lai Haraoba Festival was celebrated
in Tripura.
About the Festival

 Lai Haraoba Festival is celebrated by the Meitei
people to please the Umang Lai, the traditional
deities of Sanamahism.
 It means "merry making of the Gods" in Meetei.
 It is the combination of religious recitations,
traditional music and dance, traditional social
values and ancient cultural aspects.
Sanamahism Meitei people

 Sanamahism also known as Manipuri religion or  Meitei people are the majority ethnic group of
Kanglei religion is an animistic, ancestor Manipur.
worshipping religious tradition found among the  A significant population of the Meitei is settled in
Meitei people in Manipur. domestic neighboring states such as Assam,
 Broadly, Sanamahism worship elements of nature, Meghalaya and Tripura.
such as fire, water and mountains.  They have also settled in Bangladesh and
Myanmar.
Umang Lai
 Umang Lai is sacred trees worshiped as local forest Note: Meitei language is an Eighth Schedule
deities. The trees have significant place in Language of the Constitution of India. (Included
later)
Sanamahism.
BHARATI SCRIPT
GS-I ART & CULTURE
What is in news?
 A research team from IIT Madras has developed a
unified script for nine Indian languages. It
has been named as Bharati script.
 They further developed a method for reading
documents in Bharati script using a multi-lingual
Optical Character Recognition (OCR) scheme.
 The team has also created a fingerspelling method
that can be used to generate a sign language for
hearing-impaired persons.
Optical character recognition
 Optical character recognition or optical character
What is Bharati Script? reader (OCR) is the electronic or mechanical
 For this unified script following nine Indian conversion of images of typed, handwritten or
languages have been integrated - Devnagari, printed text into machine-encoded text.
Bengali, Gurumukhi, Gujarati, Oriya, Telugu,  OCR is widely used as a form of data entry from
Kannada, Malayalam and Tamil. printed-paper data records – like passport
 It is being proposed as a common script for India. documents, invoices, bank statements,
computerized receipts etc.
2
 It is a common method of digitizing printed texts French, German, Italian etc. use Roman as a
so that they can be electronically edited, searched, common script. A common script eases
stored more compactly. communication across all nations that speak and
 They can be further used in machine processes write different languages.
such as cognitive computing, machine translation,  India is a diverse country with great many
(extracted) text-to-speech, data and text mining. languages. A common script for the entire country
will perhaps bring down many communication
Why do we need a unified script? barriers in India.
 The researchers took inspiration from Europe.
Several European languages such as English,
In News In News: NAGOBA FESTIVAL

Recently, the first edition of Zo Kutpui festival is  Recently, Nagoba Jatara was celebrated in
organised across 10 states (beginning from Telangana.
Tripura) in India and also in countries such as
Myanmar, US and Bangladesh. The festival is an  Nagoba Jatara is a Hindu Tribal Festival
attempt to unify the Mizo population in the celebrated by the Gond and Pradhan
country and also across the world. The event Tribes. Nagoba is a serpent God.
willhost performances of several Mizo tribes.  Thousands of Tribal people from
Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Odisha,
In News Kalamkari Karnataka, Jharkhand and Madhya Pradesh
Kalamkari is an ancient style of hand painting done belonging to the Mesaram clan offer prayers
on cotton or silk fabric with a tamarind pen, using at the festival in Keslapur, Telangana.
natural dyes. The word Kalamkari is derived from a  Gond, group of aboriginal peoples (now
Persian word where ‗kalam‗ means pen and ‗kari‗ officially designated as Scheduled Tribes)
refers to craftsmanship. This art involves 23 tedious are among the largest tribal groups in
steps of dyeing, bleaching, hand painting, block India. They live in the states of Madhya
printing, starching, cleaning and more. Motifs Pradesh, Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra
drawn in Kalamkari spans from flowers, Pradesh, Bihar, and Odisha. The majority
peacock, divine characters of Hindu epics speak various and, in part, mutually
like Mahabharata and Ramayana. Nowadays, unintelligible dialects of Gondi, an unwritten
this art is primarily done to create Kalamkari sarees. . language of the Dravidian family. Some
There are two identifiable styles of Kalamkari art in Gond has lost their own language and
India – Srikalahasti style and Machilipatnam speaks Hindi, Marathi, or Telugu, depending
style. In the Machilipatnam style of Kalamkari, on which is dominant in their area.
motifs are essentially printed with hand-carved  Alternate names for Gond : Koi; Koitur
traditional blocks with intricate detailing painted by
hands. On the other hand, Srikalahasti style of
painting draws inspiration from the Hindu
mythology describing scenes from the epics and
folklore. This style holds a strong religious connect
because of its origin in the temples.
BIBI KA MAQBARA
GS-I ART & CULTURE
Context
 The domes and other marble parts of the
mausoleum- Bibi Ka Makbara would undergo
"scientific conservation", under the Archaeological
Survey of India (ASI).
3
About the Mausoleum  It bears a striking resemblance to the Taj Mahal,

 The Bibi Ka Maqbara is a tomb located in the mausoleum of Aurangzeb's mother, Mumtaz
Aurangabad, Maharashtra. Mahal and hence called the 'Taj of the Deccan'.
 It was commissioned in 1660 by the Mughal  This mausoleum was designed and erected by Ata-
emperor Aurangzeb in the memory of his first wife ullah, an architect and Hanspat Rai, an
Dilras Banu Begum. engineer respectively.
 The marble for this mausoleum was brought from
mines near Jaipur.
The Archaeological Survey of India is an Indian government agency attached to the Ministry of Culture
that is responsible for archaeological research and the conservation and preservation of cultural monuments in the
country. It was founded in 1861 by Alexander Cunningham who also became its first Director-General.
YAKSHAGANA
GS-I ART & CULTURE
Context
 Recently, the 60th annual Yakshagana was hosted
in Karnataka.
 The committee organizing it is multi-religious
consisting of Hindus, Christians and
Muslims.
About Yakshagana
 Yakshagana is a traditional Indian theatre form,
developed in the state of Karnataka and Kerala.
 It combines dance, music, dialogue, costume,
make-up, and stage techniques with a unique style
and form.
 It is believed to have evolved during the period of
the Bhakti movement.  King Kanteerava Narasaraja Wodeyar II (1704–
 Yakshagana is strongly influenced by the 1714) authored 14 Yakshaganas in various
Vaishnava Bhakti movement. languages in the Kannada script.
 Its stories are drawn from Ramayana,  Mummadi Krishnaraja Wodeyar (1794–1868) also
Mahabharata, Bhagavata and other epics from wrote several Yakshagana prasanga,
both Hindu and Jain. including Sougandhika Parinaya.
 Early Yakshagana poets included Ajapura  Noted poet, Muddana, composed several
Vishnu, Purandaradasa, Parthi Subba, and Nagire Yakshagana prasanga's, including the very
Subba. popular Rathnavathi Kalyana.
WORLD HINDI DAY 2020

GS-I INDIAN HERITAGE & CULTURE
Context
 Recently,the World Hindi Day was celebrated.  Ministry of Home Affairs celebrate World
 The Ministry of External Affairs and the Hindi Day annually.
Department of Official Language under the
4
The history Facts about the Hindi language

 World Hindi Day is celebrated on January 10 every  The word Hindi originated from the Persian
year. word Hind, which means the land of the Indus
 It marks the anniversary of first World Hindi River.
Conference, which was held in 1975.  Hindi is the first language of around 430
 The first World Hindi Conference was inaugurated million people around the world.
by the then prime minister Indira Gandhi.  Apart from India, the language is also spoken
 Since 1975, the World Hindi Conference has been in Nepal, Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago,
organized in different countries like India, Suriname, Fiji and Mauritius. Hindi and
Mauritius, United Kingdom, Trinidad and Tobago, Nepalese share the same script - Devanagari.
and United States.  Hindi is a descendant of Sanskrit. Its words
 World Hindi Day was first observed in 2006. and grammar follow that of the ancient
language.
Aim  In linguistic terms, Hindi belongs to the Indo-
 To promote Hindi language Iranian sub-family of the Indo-European
family of language.
World Hindi Day vs. National Hindi Diwas  Hindi has been influenced and enriched by
 World Hindi Day and National Hindi Diwas are Turkish, Arabic, Persian, English and
completely different. Dravidian (ancient South India) languages.
 National Hindi Diwas is celebrated every year on  The earliest form of Hindi was called
September 14. 'Apabhramsa', which was an offspring of
 On that day in 1949, the constituent assembly Sanskrit. In 400 AD, poet Kalidas wrote
adopted Hindi, written in Devanagari script, as the Vikramorvashiyam in Apabhramsa.
official language of the Union.  The first book believed to be published in
 While the focus of the World Hindi Day is to Hindi was Prem Sagar. The book was
promote the language at the global stage, the published by Lalloo Lal and depicted tales of
National Hindi Diwas, marks adaptation of Hindi, Krishna.
written in Devanagari script as the official
language.
'PATOLA' SAREES
GS-I ART & CULTURE
Context
 Recently, Khadi and Village Industries
Commission (KVIC) inaugurated the first silk
processing plant at Surendranagar in Gujarat.
Issue
 Patola sarees are very costly as the silk yarn used
to make them is purchased from Karnataka or
West Bengal, where silk processing units are
situated.
 This increases the cost of the fabric manifolds. About Patola Sarees
 Patola is a double ikat woven sari, usually made
Significance of setting up the plant from silk, made in Patan, Gujarat.
 Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises  Patola-weaving is a closely guarded family
has contended that the plant would help cut down tradition. Silk weavers of the Salvi caste weave
the cost of production of silk yarn drastically. this fabric.
 It will further increase the sale and availability of  It takes six months to one year to make one sari
raw material for Gujarati 'Patola' sarees. due to the long process of dying each strand
separately before weaving them together.
5
 Patola is woven in Surat, Ahmedabad and  In September2013, Patola Sarees received the
Patan.Velvet patola styles are also made in Surat. Geographical Indication (GI) Tag.
 Patola is highly valued in Indonesia and has
become a part of the local weaving tradition there.
NAGARDHAN EXCAVATIONS
GS-I ANCIENT HISTORY
Context
 Recent archaeological excavations at Nagardhan in
Ramtek, Nagpur, have provided concrete evidence
on the life, religious affiliations and trade practices
of the Vakataka dynasty.
 The kingdom ruled parts of Central and South
India between the third and fifth centuries.
The seals excavated
Findings from the excavated sites

 A 1,500 year-old sealing was excavated from the
 Since the Vakataka people traded with Iran and
site.
beyond through the Mediterranean Sea, these
 It is the first time clay seals have been excavated
sealings could have been used as an official royal
from Nagardhan.
permission issued from Nagardhan.
 The oval-shaped sealing belongs to the period
when Prabhavatigupta was the queen of the
Vakataka dynasty.
 It bears her name in the Brahmi script, along with
the depiction of a conch.
Why is the excavation important?

 Very little was known about the Vakatakas till now.
All that was known until nowfrom the literature
and copper plates was that the dynasty, hailed
from the Vidarbha region.
What do the findings suggest?

 The archaeological evidencesuggests that
Nagardhan served as a capital of the
Vakataka kingdom. Queen Prabhavatigupta
 The copperplate issued by Queen Prabhavatigupta
 It also revealed the dynasty‟s religious
mentions the names of her grandfather -
affiliations, the types of houses and palaces
Samudragupta and her father - Chandragupta II.
of the rulers (for the first time)and their trade
 The Vakataka rulers forged several matrimonial
practices.
alliances with other dynasties of their times.
6
 One of the key alliances was with Prabhavatigupta  Some of the Vishnu temples identified as Keval
of the mighty Gupta dynasty, which was then Narasihma, Rudra Narasimha could be traced
ruling north India. to Ramtek, Nagpur. (Present day Maharashtra).
 After marrying Vakataka king Rudrasena II,
Prabhavatigupta enjoyed the position of Chief What else has been discovered from
Queen. Nagardhan in earlier excavations?
 Ceramics, ear studs of glass, antiquities, bowls and
 Queen Prabhavatigupta was among a handful of
pots, a shrine and tank, an iron chisel, a stone
women rulers in India to have reigned over any
depicting a deer, and terracotta bangles.
kingdom during ancient times.
 Terracotta objects depicting images of gods,
 She ruled for about 10 years until her son
animals and humans, along with amulets, wheels
Pravarasena II succeeded.
and spindle whorls.
Religious affiliation revealed in the seal  An intact idol of Lord Ganesha. This confirmed
 The Vakataka rulers followed the Shaiva sect of that the elephant god was a commonly worshipped
Hinduism while the Guptas were staunch deity in those times.
Vaishnavites.  Remains of seven species of domestic animals —
 After marriage, Queen Prabhavatigupta‘s powers cattle, goat, sheep, pig, cat, horse and fowl.
allowed her to propagate Vaishnava practices in  Animal rearing was one of the main occupations.
the Vidarbha region of Maharashtra.
BOJJANNAKONDA
GS-I ANCIENT HISTORY
Context Buddhist rock-cut caves on adjacent hillocks,

 After a sustained campaign, heritage lovers, situated in Sankaram.
officials and Indian National Trust for Art  The sites date back to 3rd century BC. During this
and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) have been period the 3 phases of Buddhism –Hinayana
successful in almost stopping the stone-pelting (Theravada), Mahayana, and Vajrayana
ritual at Bojjannakonda. flourished at Sankaram (Sangharam as it was
 Bojjanakonda isa famous Buddhist site at called then).
Sankaram (Vishakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh).  The real name of Bojjannakonda was actually
Buddina Konda.
Issue  The hills contain numerous monolithic stupas,
 On the Kanuma day during Sankranti, the rock-cut caves, chaityas and monasteries forming
villagers, as a part of the ancient ritual, used to pelt one of the most remarkable Buddhist
stones at a belly-shaped object at the Bojjanakonda establishments in Andhra Pradesh.
site, believing it to be a part of a demon.
 Visakhapatnam is also famous for other
Buddhist sites like Thotlakonda, Appikonda and
The site
Bavikonda.
 Bojjannakonda and Lingalakonda are two
INTACH: The Indian National Trust for Art

and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) is a non-
profit charitable organisation registered under
the Societies Registration Act, 1860. It was
founded in 1984 in New Delhi with the vision to
create a membership organisation to stimulate
and spearhead heritage awareness and
conservation in India. Since 1984, INTACH has
pioneered the conservation and protection of
India's natural and cultural heritage. In 2007, the
United Nations awarded INTACH a special
consultative status with United Nations
Economic and Social Council.
7
SAVITRIBAI PHULE
GS-I MODERN HISTORY
Context  She fought against discrimination on the basis of

 Recently, the 188th birth anniversary of Savitribai casteand gender.
Phule was celebrated.  She established the Mahila Seva Mandal to
raise awareness for issues concerning women's
Savitribai Phule and her contributions rights.
 Savitribai Phule was an Indian social reformer,  She opened a women's shelter called the Home
educationalist, and poet from Maharashtra. for the Prevention of Infanticide. Here,
 She is the first female teacher of India who helped Brahmin widows could safely deliver their children
set-up over 17 schools in the country. and leave them there to be adopted if they so
 Regarded as the mother of Indian feminism, she desired.
was a prominent figure who worked for welfare of  She also campaigned against child marriage and
women and children. was an advocate of widow remarriage.
8
 In her poem entitled "Go, Get Education" she

encouraged those who are oppressed to free
themselves by obtaining an education.
 Phule also played a pivotal role in directing the
work of the Satyashodhak Samaj, formed by
her husband Jyotirao Phule. The aim of
Satyashodhak Samajwas to achieve equal rights for
the marginalised lower castes.
 In the 1850s, the couple founded two educational
trusts — the Native Female School, Pune and
Society for promoting the Education of
Mahars and Mangs.
 Phule and her husband Jyotirao Phule founded the  Savitribai opened a clinic in 1897 for victims of the
first Indian girls' school in Pune, at Bhide bubonic plague that spread across Maharashtra.
wada in 1848.  Her „Balhatya Pratibandhak Griha‟ supported
 She published Kavya Phule in 1854 and Bavan rape victims and pregnant women in addition to
Kashi Subodh Ratnakar in 1892. fighting the common practice of female infanticide.
In News: Indian Heritage in Digital Space

Recently, the Union Minister of State for Culture and Tourism (IC), ShriPrahlad Singh Patel launched a month
long special exhibition titled Indian Heritage in Digital Space in New Delhi. The aim of this first of its kind
exhibition is to create digital installations using 3D laser scan data, holographic projections and 3D fabrication;to
provide interactive and immersive experiences showcasing the glory of Hampi and five Indian monuments namely
KashiVishwanath Temple, Varanasi; TajMahal, Agra; Sun Temple,Konark; Ramachandra Temple, Hampi ; and
RaniKiVav, Patan .This special exhibition showcases adaptation and infusion of technologies being developed
under the Indian Digital Heritage (IDH) - an initiative of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), in the
cultural heritage domain of the country.
MEDIEVAL MONASTERIES AT MOGHALMARI

GS-I MEDIEVAL HISTORY
Context  The inscriptions are in Sanskrit and the script is a

 A study of inscriptions recovered from recent transitional phase between later north Indian
excavations at Moghalmari, have confirmed the Brahmi and early Siddhamatrika.
presence of two monasteries —  These inscribed seals confirm the presence of the
Mugalayikaviharika and above-mentioned monasteries.
Yajñapindikamahavihara.
 The monasteries at Moghalmari date from 6th The monasteries
century CE and were functional till the 12th  The first name Yajñapindikamahavihara
century CE. etymologically implies ‗a place of sacrificial
offering‘.
Where is Moghalmari?  The second name on the seals,
 A Buddhist monastic site of the early medieval Mugalayikaviharika, bears a phonetic
period - Mughalmari is situated in West Bengal‘s resemblance to the modern name of the site,
Paschim Medinapur district. Moghalmari.
 Onbeing decoded the inscriptions further
Key findings confirmed the fact mentioned in Buddhist texts
 Six tiny fragments of inscribed seals were found.
that Buddhist monasteries have a definite
Each of them contained a set of letters
hierarchy — Mahavihara, Vihara and
accompanied by the deer-dharmachakra
Viharika.
symbols.
9
Excerpts from the travels of Huen Tsang: adjoining Purba Medinipur district, West Bengal).
The link  However, he did not refer to any specific name or
 Archaeologists have pointed out that Chinese location.
travelerHuen Tsang, who visited India in the 7th  With the discovery of Moghalmari site and the
century CE, referred to the existence of ‗ten deciphering of the inscriptions, two out of ten
monasteries‘. He said they are present within the monasteries are now identified.
limits of Tamralipta (modern day Tamluk in
The evolution of Scripts

The Brahmi script is the earliest writing system developed in India after the Indus script. It is one of the most
influential writing systems; all modern Indian scripts and several hundred scripts found in Southeast and East
Asia are derived from Brahmi. The earliest and best-known Brahmi inscriptions are the rock-cut edicts of
Ashoka in north-central India, dating to 250–232 BCE.Later the script underwent important changes, and the
capability to read the original Brahmi script was lost. The script was fully deciphered in 1837 by James
Prinsep, an archaeologist, philologist, and official of the East India Company, with the help of Alexander
Cunningham.
Siddhaṃ also known as Siddhamātṛkā descended from the Brahmi script of ancient India. It was precisely
derived from the Gupta script (late Brahmi Script) and is ancestral to the Assamese alphabets, Bengali
alphabet, Maithili alphabet and the Tibetan alphabet.
In News
The GOI has instituted an annual award titled Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar.
The award is to be announced every year on 23rd January on the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhash Chandra
Bose. All Indian Citizens and organizations, who have excelled in areas of Disaster Management; like
Prevention, Mitigation, Preparedness, Rescue, Response, Relief, Rehabilitation, Research/ Innovations or Early
Warning are eligible for the Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar. In the aftermath of any
disaster, many organisations and individuals work silently but effectively to alleviate suffering of the affected
population. Their immense contribution and selfless service to humanity often goes unacknowledged. Keeping
this in view, the National Award has been instituted to recognise the efforts of such organisations and
individuals.
GURU GOBIND SINGH

GS-I MEDIEVAL HISTORY
Context
 Recently, the 353rd birth anniversary of Guru
Gobind Singh was celebrated.
About Guru Gobind Singh

 He was the 10thSikh Guru.
 Founded Sikh Warrior community called Khalsa
in 1699.
 Named Guru Granth Sahib and declared it as the
holy scripture of Sikhism.
 Introduced five Ks in Sikhism, called the “Panj
Kakar”. They are - uncut hair (Kesh), an iron  Fought against the Mughals in Battle of
bracelet (Kara), a wooden comb (Kangha), cotton Muktsar in 1705.
undergarment (Kachera) and iron dagger (Kirpan).  Dasam Granth is dedicated to Guru Gobind
 Introduced turban to cover hair. Singh.
 Established the highest order in the Sikh
community.
10
Guru Nanak Founder of Sikhism
Guru Angad Started the Gurumukhi script. Visited by Humayun.
Guru Amardas Institutionalised the faith. Picked the site for the Golden Temple, Amritsar.
Guru Arjan Dev Compiled the Adi Granth . Executed by Jahangir.
Guru Hargobind Introduced the Akal Takht (seat of power).
Guru Har Rai Supported Dara Shikoh against Aurangzeb.
Guru Har Kishan Was the Guru from age 5 till his death before reaching 8 years.
Guru Tegh Bahadur Was publicly beheaded by Aurangzeb for refusing to convert to Islam in 1675.
Guru Gobind Singh Established the Khalsa in 1699 and organised the Sikhs into a martial sect.
BHIMA-KOREGAON BATTLE
GS-I MODERN HISTORY
Context Mahars and the Victory Pillar

 Recently, the 202nd birth anniversary of Bhima  The Koregaon pillar inscription features the names
Koregaon battle was celebrated. of the 49 Company soldiers killed in the battle. 22
 Lakhs of people paid their tributes at the of these soldiers were Mahars.
"Jaystambh" (victory pillar) of Maharashtra.  While the obelisk was built by the British as a
symbol of their own power, today it serves as a
Battle of Koregaon memorial of the Mahars.
 The Battle of Koregaon was fought on 1st January  The Mahars were considered as untouchable in the
1818 between the British East India Company and contemporary caste-based society.
the Peshwa faction of the Maratha Confederacy, at  The Peshwas, who were high-caste Brahmins, were
Koregaon Bhima. notorious for their mistreatment and persecution
 It is also called the Battle of Koregaon Bhima, after of the untouchables.
the river Bhima that flows close to it.  Because of this, the so-called Dalits, after
 The battle was part of the Third Anglo Maratha independence, saw the Koregaon obelisk as a
war - a series of battles that culminated in the symbol of their victory over the high-caste
defeat of the Maratha Empire and subsequent rule oppression.
of the British East India Company.  B. R. Ambedkar visited the site on 1st January 1927.
To commemorate his visit to the site, today
Note- The Company troops of Indian origin included thousands of his followers visit the site.
Mahars, Marathas, Rajputs, Muslims and Jews.
COLONIAL STRUCTURES RE-DEDICATED TO

KOLKATA
GS-I MODERN HISTORY
Context Details
 Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi re-  Kolkata‘s three iconic colonial buildings –
dedicated three colonial buildings to the people of  The Currency Building,
Kolkata.  Metcalfe Hall and
11
 Belvedere House, which has been Metcalfe Hall

suffering from negligence for a long time,  Named after Lord Metcalfe, the structure is
has now been completely restored. famous for its 30 Corinthian pillars (Greek
 The buildings were renovated by Ministry of architecture).
Culture.  Lord Metcalfe was the Governor General of India
during 1835 - 1836.
Currency Building  The Hall was built to honor his efforts towards free
 Built in 1833, the currency building was designed press.
in Italian style.
 It was originally known as Agra Bank and Office of Belvedere House
issue and Exchange of Government Currency later  The roots of Belvedere House lie in the late 1760s
on. when Mir Jafar Ali Khan, the Nawab of the
 It was built when the Lord William Bentinck was province of Bengal was compelled by the British
the Governor General of the British India. East India Company to abdicate his throne at
 The RBI operated from the building till 1937 after Murshidabad to Qasim Khan in 1760.The
which it was abandoned. Belvedere House wasMir Jafar‘s palace.
 The building was declared as a protected  Later several governors of Bengal and viceroys of
monument by the Archaeological Survey of India India resided in Belverdere House
(ASI) in 2002.
CLASSICAL LANGUAGES
GS-I ART & CULTURE
Context
 Recently, the Maharashtra Government passed a  The Ministry then forwards the proposal
resolution demanding the declaration of Marathi along with the recommendations to the
as a ‗Classical‘ language. Prime Minister‘s Office for further action.
Criteria for conferring the status of Classical languages in India

 Currently, there are six languages in India who
Classical Language
have been conferred with the ‗Classical‘ status:
 The guidelines of the government are as follows:  Tamil (declared in 2004),
 High antiquity of its early texts/recorded  Sanskrit (2005),
history over a period of 1500-2000  Kannada (2008),
years  Telugu (2008),
 A body of ancient literature/texts, which is  Malayalam (2013), and
considered a valuable heritage by  Odia (2014).
generations of speakers
 Of the six classical languages|:
 The literary tradition to be original and
 Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam
not borrowed from another speech are Dravidian languages while
community  Sanskrit and Odia are Indo-Aryan
 The classical language and literature being languages.
distinct from modern, there may also be a
discontinuity between the classical Type Languages
language and its later forms or its
National Official Language
offshoots None
of India
 Upon receiving the proposal for
considering a language for the status, the Official language of
English and Hindi
Ministry of Culture refers it to the Central Government
Committee on Linguistic Experts through
the Sahithya Akademi for Tamil, Sanskrit,
recommendations. Classical languages Kannada, Telegu,
Malyalam and Odiya
12
 As per the 2011 Census, 78.1% of total population  Centre of Excellence for studies in Classical
has one of the Indo-Aryan languages as mother Languages is also set up.
tongue while 19.6% of the total population has one  MHRD sends a request to the University Grants
of the Dravidian languages as mother tongue. Commission to create a number of Professional
Chairs for the Classical Languages in central
Benefits of being conferred the „Classical‟ universities.
status  Annually, funds are disbursed by the Central
 The Ministry of Human Resources Development Government for promotion and development of
gives away two major international awards every
these languages.
year for scholars of eminence in Classical Indian
Languages.
TRIBES IN ODISHA
GS-I INDIAN HERITAGE AND CULTURE
Context
 Right to Food Campaign, a platform of social Paudi Bhuyan
activists, has reported that poor implementation of  The Paudi Bhuyan forms a major section of the
government welfare programmes is marginalising Bhuinya tribe and also known as the Hill
tribals like Juang and Paudi Bhuyan further in Bhuyan.
backward pockets of Odisha.  One of the PVTGs of Odisha, the tribe derives its
name from the word Bhumi meaning Earth.
Juang Tribe
 The Juang are an Austro-Asiatic ethnic group
found mainly in the Keonjhar district of Odisha.
 Juang is a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal
Group (PVTG)
 The 2011 census showed their population to be
around 50,000.
 The Juang language belongs to the Munda family
of the Austro-Asiatic languages.
 Changu Dance, also known as Juang Dance, is a
popular of these people.
 It derives its name from a kind of drum called PVTGs
Changu (Tambourine), which invariably  In 1973, the Dhebar Commission created
accompanies the dance. Primitive Tribal Groups (PTGs) as a separate
 The dance in accompaniment to the Changu is category, who are less developed among the tribal
performed by women alone. groups.
13
 In 2006, the Government of India renamed the  A subsistence level of economy.

PTGs as Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups  PVTGs have some basic characteristics -they are
(PVTGs).  Mostly homogenous with a small
 There are 75 Particularly Vulnerable Tribal population,
Groups (PVTGs) notified as on date in the  Relatively physically isolated,
country.  Social institutes cast in a simple mould,
 The criteria followed for determination of PVTGs  Absence of written language,
are as under:  Relatively simple technology and
 A pre-agriculture level of technology;  A slower rate of change etc.
 A stagnant or declining population;  The state Odisha has the highest number of
 Extremely low literacy; and PVTGs in the country i.e. 13 out of 75
Tribes (Odisha)
BHIL TRIBE
Context
 The Madhya Pradesh Public Service Commission
(MPPSC) has landed in a controversy after passing
derogatory remarks on Bhil tribe.
Place /Location (then and Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh,

now) Gujarat
Population 2505888
Languages spoken Bhili
Religion/God Tiger God Called "Vaghdev"
Food Maize, Wheat and Fruits

o Central Bhils found in the mountains
ranges of Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra,
Gujarat, Rajasthan and
The Bhil Tribe o Eastern Rajput Bhils are found in eastern
 The word Bhil is derived from the Bil or Vil, which parts of Tripura.
mean Bow.  These tribes have been mentioned in epics like
 They are the largest tribe of South Asia. Mahabharata and Ramayana.
 They constitute 39% of the total population of
Rajasthan. Languages
 Bhils are known as bowmen of Rajasthan.  The Indo Aryan language called Bhili.
 They are the best archers and excellent in
geographical knowledge. Occupation
 They are the third largest tribe in India after the  Agriculture and the Animal Husbandry.
Gonds and Santhals.  Poultry farming and labour.
 Bhil tribe is divided into two groups:  Manufacturing agricultural equipments.
14
Festivals
 The Baneshwar fair is the main festival  They worship Tiger God called 'Vaghdev'.
celebrated among the Bhils.  Bhils do not have temples of their own and consult
 This fair is dedicated to Baneshwar Mahadev also Badvas -the hereditary sorcerers on all the
known as Lord Shiva. occasions, as they are highly superstitious.
 The famous dance among the Bhil
Culture Is Ghoomar and Gair, which is the religious dance
 They worship local deities like Khandoba, drama, performed by the men only.
Kanhoba, Bahiroba, and Sitalmata.
HARVEST FESTIVALS OF INDIA

Context
 A number of Harvest festivals are being
celebrated across India.
Various Harvest Festivals of India

Festival States
Uttarayan Gujarat
Suggi Karnataka
PoushSankranti West Bengal
Pongal Tamil Nadu
Magha Bihu Assam
Maghi Punjab
Saaji Himachal Pradesh
Kicheri Uttar Pradesh
Garo Tribe of Meghalaya, Nagaland and

Assam in India and Greater Mymensingh in
Wangala
Bangladesh.
Baisakhi (Significance- Solar New Year,
Harvest festival, birth of the Khalsa, Punjabi
Punjab, Haryana
new year)
Onam Kerala
15
Nuakhai Odisha
Nobanno West Bengal
Ka Pomblang Nongkrem Meghalaya
Makar Sankranti Pan India
Ladakh Harvest Festival Ladakh, Zanskar, Kargil
Basant Panchami Punjab, Haryana
Bhogali Bihu Assam
Gudi Padwa Maharashtra
Ugadi Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka
Vishu Kerala and Karnataka
Agera Maharashtra (By catholic locals)
Dree Festival Arunachal Pradesh (By Apatani tribe)
SEKE LANGUAGE
Context
 Recently it was reported that the ―near-extinct‖  Seke is an endangered language under
Nepalese language Seke has just 700 speakers UNESCOAtlas of the World‟s Languagesin
around the world. Danger.
Seke UNESCO Atlas of the World‟s Languages in

 According to the Endangered Language Danger
Alliance (ELA), Seke is one of the over 100  UNESCO‘s Atlas of the World‘s Languages in
indigenous languages of Nepal. Danger is intended to :
 In recent years, Seke has been disappearing due to  Raise awareness about language
Nepali, which is Nepal‘s official language. endangerment and
 Seke, which means ―Golden Language‖, is an  The need to safeguard the world‘s
unwritten language. linguistic diversity among policy-makers,
speaker communities and the general
public.
16
 It is a tool to monitor the status of linguistic diversity at the global level.

endangered languages and the trends in
Endangered Language Alliance (ELA)

Founded in 2010, the Endangered Language Alliance (ELA) is a non-profit based dedicated to supporting linguistic
diversity and endangered languages in New York City and beyond. ELA‘s unique network of researchers, activists, and
students documents the speech, stories, and songs of immigrant, refugee, and Diaspora communities, bringing it to a
wider audience.
Categorization of languages based on endangerment. (By UNESCO)
Z-MORH TUNNEL
GS-I GEOGRAPHY
Context
 The government recently allotted APCO
Amarnathji Tunnelway Pvt. Ltd. to build the
crucial Z-Morh Tunnel in Jammu and Kashmir.
Features of the tunnel

 Z-Morh tunnel will be two-lane bi-directional road
tunnel between Gagangir and Sonmarg.
 The tunnel will be 6.5 km long, and located at
elevation of 8,652 ft above sea level. closed for seven months due to snow.
 The tunnel will help keep the highway open the  The tunnel will also benefit social and economic
entire year. development of region by boosting trade and
 The tunnel gets its name from its Z formation tourism in Sonmarg region.
between Sonamarg and Gagangir.  The time to drive from Srinagar to Leh will be
reduced and will not require overnight halt at
Significance Kargil.
 Along with Zoji-la Tunnel (22 km from Z-Morh  The entire stretch will become motorable
tunnel towards Leh), the Z-Morh tunnel will throughout the year.
ensure year long road connectivity between
Srinagar and Kargil which currently remains
17
INDIA'S FIRST UNDERWATER METRO

GS-I GEOGRAPHY
Context
 The East West Metro Tunnel Project is
expected to be completed by 2022.
The Project
 East West Metro Tunnel is an under
construction underwater river tunnel of
Kolkata Metro.
 The underwater line tunnel beneath the
Hooghly River is a state-of-the-art metro line.
 Tunnel length is 10.8 kilometers and width is
5.5 meters .
 The roof of the tunnel would be about 30  The tunnel will be first underwater river
meters from the ground level. tunnel in India.
In News: LAMU REGION

Somalia's Al-Shabaab group stormed a military base used by
US forces in Kenya's coastal Lamu region, killing American
citizens and destroying several aircraft and military vehicles.
Lamu Island lies off the shore of Kenya in the Indian Ocean
approximately 150 miles from Mombasa. It is a part of the
East African country of Kenya. Lamu is one of the best-
preserved remaining settlements of the Swahili tradition in
east Africa since last 700 years. Lamu isrecognized as a World
Heritage Site by the United Nations Educational, Scientific
and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
TAAL VOLCANO
GS-I GEOGRAPHY
Context
 On 12th January2020, a volcano called Taal
erupted in Phillipines.
The Volcano
 Taal Volcano is the second most active volcano in
the Philippines, with 33-recorded historical
eruptions.
 The Volcano is a large caldera filled by Taal Lake
on Luzon Island in the Philippines (Batanga
Province).
18
A complex volcano Rock type

 Taal is classified as a “complex‖ volcano by the  Taal Volcano‘s rock type is classified as olivine
Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology basalt, a type of mineral, and andesite, a type of
(PHIVOLCS). rock formed through the cooling of lava or magma.
 A complex volcano, also called a compound
volcano, is the one that consists of two or more The Macolod Corridor
vents (points of eruption).  Taal is a part of the Macolod Corridor – a 40-
Examples - Vesuvius, besides Taal. kilometer-wide zone of active volcanic
activity in Luzon.
How big is Taal Volcano?
 It has 47 craters and 4 maars. Why is Phillipines prone to volcanoes?
 Maars are volcanic craters caused by an  There are 53 active volcanoes in the Philippines.
eruption occurring when old groundwater The Philippines lies between the Pacific and
is in contact with hot rock or magma. Eurasian Plates and this makes it highly vulnerable
 The Crater Lake, located on Volcano Island, is 1.9 to typhoons, floods, landslides, volcanic eruptions
kilometer in diameter. and earthquakes. Phillipines lies in the Pacific
Ring of Fire.
 Taal is estimated to be 311 meters high.
In News: Gatka
Gatka is an Indian martial art associated with the
Sikhs of the Punjab region, and with the Pathan
Tribe and Gujjar communities residing in
mountainous regions of northern Pakistan. It is a
style of stick fighting, with wooden sticks intended
to simulate swords. It originated in Punjab in the
15th century. After the Anglo-Sikh wars the art was
banned by the new British administrators of India
in the mid-19th century. During the Indian
Rebellion of 1857, the Sikhs assisted the British in
crushing the mutiny. As a consequence of this
assistance, restrictions on fighting practices were
relaxed, but the Punjabi martial arts which re-
emerged after 1857 had changed significantly. Gatka
was used mainly by the British Indian Army in the
1860s as practice for hand-to-hand combat. Then it
started declining. There has been a revival of the
Gatka during the later 20th century, with an
International Gatka Federation. It was founded in
1982 and formalized in 1987, and gatka is now
popular as a sport or sword dance performance art
which is often shown during Sikh festival.
SEISMIC HAZARD MICROZONATION

GS-I GEOGRAPHY
Context Aim
 Ministry of Earth Science has launched Seismic  To reduce earthquake hazards.
Hazard Microzonation project in major cities of
India.
19
Seismic microzonation
 Seismic microzonation is defined as the process of
subdividing a potential seismic or earthquake
prone area into zones with respect to some
geological and geophysical characteristics of the
sites.
 These include ground shaking, liquefaction
susceptibility, landslide and rock fall hazard,
earthquake-related flooding.
 In this way, seismic hazards at different locations
within the area can correctly be identified.
Significance
 Microzonation provides the basis for site-specific
risk analysis, which can assist in the mitigation of
earthquakedamage.
TULU LANGUAGE
GS-I ART AND CULTURE
Context
 Karnataka has been demanding to add Tulu as a  Two Tulu epics named Sri Bhagavato and Kaveri
recognized language under the Eight Schedule from the 17th century were written in the same
Languages of the Constitution of India. script.
 In modern times the Tulu language is mostly
About Tulu
written using the Kannada script.
 Tulu is a Dravidian language whose speakers are
 The Eighth Schedule to the Constitution of India
concentrated in 2 districts of Karnataka and in a
lists the official languages of the Republic of
part of the Kasaragod district of Kerala.
India. The Government is now under an
 The native speakers of Tulu are referred to as
obligation to take measures for the development
Tuluva or Tulu people and the geographical area is
of these languages, such that "they grow rapidly
unofficially called as Tulu Nadu.
in richness and become effective means of
 The Indian census report of 2011 reported a total communicating modern knowledge. In addition,
of 1,846,427 native Tulu speakers in India. a candidate appearing in an examination
 The various medieval inscriptions of Tulu from the conducted for public service is entitled to use
15th century are in the Tigalari alphabet script. any of these languages as the medium.
20
SWACHH BHARAT MISSION

GS-II POLITY
Context
 Governments have always focused on designing  SBM attempted to make sanitation glamorous by
the right policies and development schemes. engaging extensively with the media, leveraging
However, over the years, many such well-designed popular culture, and associating Bollywood stars,
schemes failed to make a significant dent on the sportspersons and other influencers to promote
lack of access to basic services that a large the message of sanitation.
proportion of our population faced. There was lack  The PM was our Communicator-in-Chief.
of focus on implementation of policies.
Democratise
Journey of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan has thrown up  It nudged people to realise that sanitation is not an
six important guiding principles, which can be individual good, but a community good, as its full
applied to any large transformation scheme — the benefits accrue only when it is universal.
ABCDEF of implementation.  People constructed their own toilets and motivated
others, communities planned activities and
Align monitored progress, villages declared themselves
 A goal congruence has to be achieved across the open defecation free (ODF).
administrative ecosystem.
 The Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation Evaluate
ensured that the same message percolated down to  Organisations such as the World Bank, UNICEF,
the chief ministers, 700 district collectors and Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and WHO
2,50,000 sarpanches. conducted various assessments of sanitation
 Team SBM-Grameen visited each state multiple coverage and usage, successes and areas of
times and also engaged directly with district improvement, as well as the health, economic and
collectors through learning workshops, informal social impacts of the SBM.
gatherings and WhatsApp groups, ensuring that  Lessons from these studies were incorporated into
sanitation remained on top of everyone‘s agenda. the programme in real-time.
Believe Follow-through
 Building a team of people who believed that the  There is a strong focus on not declaring ―mission
goal is achievable. accomplished‖, and continuing to work towards
 The SBM brought in a unique blend of young sustaining the ODF behaviour and ensuring that
professionals and experienced but driven no one is left behind.
bureaucrats, at the centre and in the states, and  Released a forward-looking 10-year sanitation
each person quickly became a believer. strategy, articulating the goal of moving from ODF
to ODF Plus.
Communication  It is to ensure that the change becomes the norm
 An army of trained grassroots volunteers called and that things don‘t reset to what they used to be
Swachagrahis were created, who went from door to in the past.
door to communicate the message of swachhata.
ANTI-DEFECTION LAW
GS-II POLITY
Context Karnataka Event

 The Karnataka by-election results have widely put  Of the 17 defecting Congress-Janata Dal (Secular)
to display the ineffectiveness of the Anti-Defection MLAs, 11 were re-elected on a BharatiyaJanata
Law. Party (BJP) ticket.
 It set a dangerous precedent for neutralising the
consequences of the law altogether.
21
 The 17 rebel MLAs in Karnataka resigned, their act  The law originally protected the Speaker‘s decision
aimed at ending the majority of the ruling coalition from judicial review.
and, at the same time, avoiding disqualification.
 The Speaker refused to accept the resignations and KihotoHollohan Judgement:
declared them disqualified.  SC upheld the Speaker‘s discretionary power, it
underscored that the Speaker functioned as a
Anti-Defection Law tribunal under the anti-defection law.
 It defined three grounds of disqualification of  Her/his decisions are subject to judicial review.
MLAs  Enabled judiciary to become the watchdog of the
o Giving up party membership anti-defection law.
o Going against party whip
o Abstaining from voting. Balasaheb Patel Judgement
 The Tenth Schedule, which is popularly known as  Three-judge SC bench upheld the then Karnataka
the Anti-defection Law, was added to the Speaker‘s decision of disqualification of the 17
Constitution through the 52nd Constitutional rebel MLAs.
Amendment Act, 1985.  It struck down his ban on the MLAs from
 An independent candidate joins the party after the contesting elections till 2023.
election.  The Supreme Court played the role of a neutral
 A nominated member joins a party six months umpire in this political slugfest.
after becoming an MP/MLA.
 It allowed the formation of a new party or Issues
―merger‖ with other political party if not less than  Defectors treat disqualification as a mere detour,
two-thirds of the party‘s members commit to it. before they return to the House or government by
 The 91st Amendment also barred the appointment re-contesting.
of defectors as Ministers until their disqualification
period is over or they are re-elected. Way Forward
 This can only be stopped by extending the
Resignation not a condition disqualification period from re-contesting.
 Resignation as MLA was not one of the conditions.  Stopping of appointment to
 This was possible as the legislation empowers the Chairmanships/Ministries to at least six years.
presiding officer of the House (i.e. the Speaker) to  The minimum period limit of six years is needed to
decide on complaints of defection under no time ensure that the defectors are not allowed to enter
constraint. the election fray for least one election cycle.
FOREIGNERS REGIONAL REGISTRATION OFFICE

GS-II POLITY
Context
 The Foreigners Regional Registration Office movement, stay, departure, and also for
(FRRO) under the Bureau of Immigration has recommending the extension of stay in India.
deported four Russian nationals on suspicion  Nodal ministry for FRROs/ FROs across India
of having violated their visa conditions. is Ministry of Home Affairs.
Foreigners Regional Registration Office About E-FRRO

(FRRO)  e-FRRO scheme is aimed at building a
 Registration is essential for all foreigners centralized, transparent online platform for
having visas for a period exceeding 6 months the foreigners to avail visa related services and
except the exempted categories and should be to provide Faceless, Cashless and Paperless
done within 14 days of first arrival at the services to the foreigners with user-friendly
nearest office of the Foreigners Registration experience.
Officer.  It provides online FRRO Service delivery
 The Foreigner Registration Office is the mechanism without requirement of visiting
primary agency to regulate registration, FRRO/FRO Office barring exceptional cases.
22
RESTRUCTURING OF RAILWAY SERVICES

GS-II POLITY
Context
 The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) will
be conducting an exclusive examination for
recruitment of officers to handle specialised
services in the newly created Indian Railway
Management Service (IRMS) following unification
of eight different railway services.
About IRMS
 The Union Cabinet has approved the
organizational restructuring of the railways
through the unification of the existing eight Group
A services into one central service — the Indian
Railway Management Service (IRMS).
 The move was required as there was huge Challenges
―departmentalism‖ that delayed many projects.  Problem is that of retrospectively integrating
existing 8,401 officers into IRMS.
Restructuring of Railway board  Posts becoming ex-cadre (no longer reserved for
specific services) increases a sense of insecurity,
 Structure has remained unchanged since 1905.
especially because the average entrant through the
 Board comprises eight members, each present civil service examination is older than the
representing their service, with the chairman being average entrant through the present engineering
first among equals. service examination.
 15 departments will be restructured under Railway  Railway works at two separate level Operations
Protection force and medical Service Department. and business. Both are big enough to be dealt
separately. Single service might not be able to do
justice rather breaking in two services technical
and non –technical would have been much better.
 Even at present the ethos of coordinated working
and a broad exposure to departments other than
one‘s own is inherent in the system.
 Working in silos is named as Specialisation in
bureaucratic parlance. Does the new service aims
Impact of the reform for creating an IAS structure in railway where
 Remove the ‗departmentalism‘ culture, which has officers are transferred regularly and nobody
seeped all the way up to the Railway Board. develops any specialisation.
 It will end turf war among the services.  Some measure of departmental rivalry will always
 Ensure there is ―one service and officers from one be there under the best of circumstances and in
batch should get promotion in on go‖. fact may even be beneficial as a means of
―competitive tension‖.
 The recruitment of the members from a trained
Existing 8 services are
management pool into railway board will give Technical Background
them a wider perspective for corporate  Indian Railway Service of Engineers(IRSE)
governance.  Indian Railway Service of Mechanical Engineers
 Provide equal opportunity of reaching the top (IRSME)
posts of divisional railway managers (DRMs) and  Indian Railway Service of Electrical Engineers
above. (IRSME)
 Improve decision-making by giving CEO final  Indian Railway Store Service (IRSS)
decision making authority.  Indian Railway Service of Signal Engineers
 Earlier, focus was on departmental specific goals (IRSSE)
and broad goals of railways were sidelined.
 Unification has been recommended by several Non Technical Background (Recruitment
committees—Prakash Tandon (1994), Khanna through UPSC Civil service Mains)
(1998), Rakesh Mohan (2001), Sam Pitroda (2012)  Indian Railway Traffic service (IRTS)
and BibekDebroy (2015).  Indian Railway Personnel service (IRPS)
 Indian Railway Account service (IRAS)
23
ELECTION IN DELHI
GS-II POLITY
Context
 Elections to the 70-member Delhi Legislative  Party in power Official machinery cannot be used
Assembly were conducted by the Election in election campaign. Party cannot disclose any
Commission of India (ECI). last minute policies to influence the voters. Public
 If an ―extraordinary situation‖ arose in the polling spaces will be used by all parties equally.
process, the ECI had the option of deferring  Observers Election commission can appoint
elections. observers at polling booth for free and fair
 Postal ballot facilities would be provided to election.
persons with disabilities and senior citizens over  Election Manifesto Party cannot make
the age of 80 in selected constituencies in Delhi. unsubstantial promises to win the voter's vote.
 Once the Model Code of Conduct had come into
effect ―No state-specific schemes‖ or Challenges with Model Code of Conduct
―achievements‖ can be announced in the general  Difficult to monitor in Social Media age.
Budget.  Election commission social media rules don‘t deal
with What‘s app, which is most potent source of
About Model Code of Conduct spread of fake news and rumours.
 The Model Code of Conduct is a set of guidelines  Not a legal binding, thus doesn‘t inculcate fear in
that are issued by India‘s Election Commission for the minds of politicians.
candidates and political parties during elections.  Fear of repercussion Recently, government of the
 The guidelines have been created through the day has launched Income tax and other
consensus of all political parties, who have investigations against family members of election
agreed to follow the regulations. commissioners due to his critical observations
 This code comes into effect as soon as the EC during the 2019 elections.
announces the election schedule.  When there are parties who officially promote
 The model code is required in order to ensure caste or religious causes, MCC guidelines of not
free and fair elections in the country. invoking religion or caste becomes insignificant.
 Mainly, the code seeks to prevent communal  India has not banned issue-based advertising.
clashes and the practice of corruption during the These advertise indirectly exhorts people to vote
election process. for a specific party to deal with certain issue.
 It comes into enforcement the day polling date is
announced is valid until the result day. It is a set of Election Commission steps
guidelines.  cVigil app can be used to highlight violation of
MCC.
Actions in MCC  Political parties need to disclose details of their
 Departments need to take down political posters social media account to election commission.
and images of political leaders from their websites  Election commission has set up media certification
and social media accounts. and monitoring committee in every district. A
 Enforcement of the anti-defacement law. Removal social media expert has also been assigned with
of defacement from Private Property. these committees.
 No new development work must be started.  Certain provisions of MCC can be invoked through
 Government vehicles and other resources are not legal provisions in the Crpc. Like religious
misused. animosity through hate speechcan be dealt in IPC
153A.
Provisions of Model code of Conduct
 General conduct Criticism of other political parties About Election Commission
can‘t be done based on unverified reports. Religion  The Election Commission of India is an
and caste cannot be the basis for campaign. Voters autonomous constitutional authority responsible
can‘t be bribed or intimated for voting. for administering Union and State election
 Meeting Local police needs to be informed of the processes in India.
venue or time of the meeting.  The body administers elections to the Lok Sabha,
 Polling day Authorised party worker are only Rajya Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies in
allowed at political booth. India and the offices of the President and Vice
President in the country.
24
Article related to election  Art.329 Bar to interference by courts in electoral

 Art.324 Superintendence, direction and control of matters.
elections to be vested in an Election Commission.
 Art.325 No person to be ineligible for inclusion in, Function of Election Commission
or to claim to be included in a special, electoral roll  The most important function of the commission is
on grounds of religion, race, caste or sex. to decide the election schedules for the conduct of
 Art.326 Elections to the House of the People and to periodic and timely elections, whether general or
the Legislative Assemblies of States to be on the bye-elections.
basis of adult suffrage.  The Commission also has advisory jurisdiction
 Art.327 Power of Parliament to make provision in the matter of post election disqualification of
with respect to elections to Legislatures. sitting members of Parliament and State
 Art.328 Power of Legislature of a State to make Legislatures.
provision with respect to elections to such
Legislature.
STATE CAN REGULATE MINORITY INSTITUTIONS

GS-II POLITY
Context
 The Supreme Court held that the state is well  Provisions of the Act were ―specially designed‖ for
within its rights to introduce a regulatory regime in madrasahs and the madrasah education system in
the ―national interest‖ to provide minority West Bengal.
educational institutions with well-qualified  Act was ―not violative of the rights of the
teachers in order for them to ―achieve excellence in minority educational institutions on any count.‖
education.‖ Court comment
 In the judgment, a Bench of Justices Arun Mishra
Background details and U.U. Lalit said the regulatory law should,
 The judgment came on a challenge to the validity however, balance the dual objectives of ensuring
of the West Bengal Madrasah Service Commission a standard of excellence as well as preserving
Act of 2008. the right of the minorities to establish and
 The State Act mandated that the process of administer their educational institutions.
appointment of teachers in aided madrasahs,  The court explains how to strike a ―balance‖
recognised as minority institutions, would be done between the two objectives of excellence in
by a Commission, whose decision would be education and the preservation of the minorities‘
binding. right to run their educational institutions.
 For this, the court broadly divides education into
TMA Paijudgement two categories – secular education and
 A regulation framed in the national interest must education ―directly aimed at or dealing with
necessarily apply to all institutions regardless preservation and protection of the heritage,
whether they are run by majority or minority. culture, script and special characteristics of a
 Essence of Article 30(1) is to ensure equal religious or a linguistic minority.‖
treatment between the majority and minority  When it comes to the latter, the court advocated
institutions. ―maximum latitude‖ to be given to the
 An objection can certainly be raised if an management to appoint teachers.
unfavourable treatment is meted out to an  The court reasons that only ―teachers who believe
educational institution established and in the religious ideology or in the special
administered by minority. characteristics of the concerned minority would
Court verdict alone be able to imbibe in the students admitted in
 Article 30(1) (Right of minorities to establish such educational institutions, what the minorities
and administer educational institutions of their would like to preserve, profess and propagate.‖
choice) was neither absolute nor above the law.  However, minority institutions where the
 Upheld the validity of the 2008 Act, saying the curriculum was ―purely secular‖, the intent must
Commission was composed of persons with be to impart education availing the best possible
profound knowledge in Islamic Culture and teachers.
Islamic Theology.
25
Constitutional Provisions regarding  Minority institutions are not required to provide

Minority institutions the mandatory quota of 25% to poor section
 Under Article, 30(1) any minority can establish under right to education act.
educational institute. In case, the institution is  Supreme Court has ruled that minority institutions
taken over by state, state needs to provide can have 50% reservation for the minority.
compensation to the community.
 Under Article 15(5), minority institutions are not
considered for reservation of vulnerable section of
India.
STATES CAN PROVIDE 10% EWS QUOTA

GS-II POLITY
Context  Economic justice is the philosophy behind it.

 Centre informed the Supreme Court that it would  In an increasing economic society, class becomes a
be the States‘ prerogative to provide 10% economic tool of oppression.
reservation in government jobs and admission to  It address contemporary reservation movements
education institutions. like Jats reservation, Patel reservation.
 Eight Lakh is creamy layer identified in OBC
Government argument in court reservation. Hence, eight lakh is justified as a basis
 Whether or not to provide reservation to the of class criteria.
economically weaker section in appointment to
State government jobs and admission to State Concerns/drawbacks of EWS reservation
government educational institutions, as per  It violates Indira Swahney judgement of Supreme
provisions of the newly inserted Articles 15(6) Court, which applied 50% cap on the reservation.
and 16(6) of the Constitution, is to be decided by  Social justice has been the philosophy behind
the State government concerned. reservation. Upper caste is at the top of caste
 Department of Social Justice and Empowerment pyramid and does not require any reservation.
―has no role in deciding the reservation policy of  It is not based on any scientific data. A survey of
any State government‖. 450 educational institutions had found 28%
students belonging to EWS section.
EWS reservation  The criteria qualifies around 90-95% population.
 The Constitution (103rd Amendment) Act
 The reservation does not make any sense when
provides for 10% reservation in government jobs
jobs are on the rise in private sector. Public sector
and educational institutions for the economically
is already declining and not creating many jobs.
weaker section in the unreserved category.
 This reservation move can be abused by changing
 The Act amends Article 15 and 16 to provide for
the economic status by selling property or showing
reservation based on economic backwardness.
lower income.
Positives of EWS reservation
Conclusion
 It provides legitimacy to already existing
 Administration must ensure that non-deserving
reservation. Now, universities will not be
population does not get the EWS certificate. Only
segregated between merit candidates and reserved
genuine poor and needy section should get the
communities.
opportunity.
 It is secular in nature and includes all religions
Muslims, Christians
26
HUMAN RIGHTS
GS-II POLITY
Context  The Universal Declaration has acquired the force

 The human rights situation in Jammu and of law as part of the customary law of nations.
Kashmir (J&K) following the dilution of Article  It has provided the basis for binding human rights
370 and the passage of the Citizenship treaties.
(Amendment) Act (CAA) has brought renewed  It also provides non-binding guidelines/principles
international focus on India‘s human rights that constitute a distinct body of law known as
practice. international human rights law.
Government ways of protecting Human rights Challenge to Government arguments

 Indian state asserted that both J&K and CAA are  The evolution of international human rights law
entirely internal matters and there cannot be any has led to gradual weakening of the concept of
interference in such sovereign decisions. unrestricted sovereignty.
 Country is the largest democracy in the world with  By ratifying international human rights treaties
an independent judiciary, free media, and an active and submitting periodic reports to the respective
civil society. treaty bodies, it has acknowledged the principle
 The Indian state always assured the international that the treatment of its citizens is not entirely an
community that the judiciary, mainly its Supreme internal matter.
Court, would provide adequate remedies to victims  Non–discrimination is a fundamental principle of
of human rights violations. human rights. But, CAA has led to institutionalized
 Establishment of free media and civil society in discrimination against a specific religion.
protecting the human rights of vulnerable groups.  The Office of the High Commissioner for Human
Rights (OHCHR) has expressed its concern stating
Evolution and Nature of Human rights that the CAA ―is fundamentally discriminatory in
 Recognition of individuals as subjects. nature‖.
 Evolution of Human rights was to protect  The faith of the common people in the higher
minorities living in other states. judiciary has weakened.
 The evolution of labour standards led to the  Since 2014, the government has cancelled the
establishment of the International Labour Office registration of about 14,000 NGOs under the
(ILO). Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA).
 The Universal Declaration of Human Rights,  Ruling party is increasingly seen as engaged in the
adopted in 1948 by the United Nations, was the intimidation of critics, attacks against minorities,
first comprehensive international human rights and restrictions on the freedoms of artistes.
document.
ACCESS TO INTERNET
GS-II POLITY
Context Article 19 of the Constitution and subject to

 The Supreme Court declined to express any views reasonable restrictions.
on whether ―access to Internet‖ is a fundamental  State cannot restrict or deny free speech on the
right. Internet because the medium can circulate
information widely.
Court observations on Internet Services  The right to free speech and expression includes
 Directed the government to ―forthwith‖ review its the right to disseminate information.
orders suspending Internet services in Jammu and
Kashmir. Court observation on shutdown of net
 Confined itself to declaring that the freedoms of The Supreme Court rejected the argument of the
speech, expression and conducting business on the Jammu and Kashmir government that it opted for
Internet are fundamental rights, integral to a blanket suspension of Internet services in the
27
Valley, because it lacked the technology to allow  Upheld the freedoms of free speech, expression
selective online access. and trade or business on the Internet as
 If such a contention is accepted, the government fundamental rights to be constitutionally
would have a free pass to put a complete Internet protected.
blockage every time.  Review orders suspending Internet services in the
 Such complete blocking/prohibition perpetually erstwhile State instantly.
cannot be accepted by this court.  Any order suspending the Internet found to violate
 Government‘s argument has merit that Internet the law should be revoked at once.
could be used to propagate terrorism in J&K,  Instructed the government to consider restoring
thereby challenging the sovereignty and integrity government websites, localized/limited e-banking
of the nation. facilities, hospital services and other essential
 Peace in J&K should be achieved without services in areas in the Union Territory.
―excessively burdening‖ the fundamental right of  Mandatory for the government to publish each and
free speech. every one of its orders that crippled the
 The goal behind a restriction should be legitimate. fundamental freedoms of over seven million
 The degree and scope of a restriction should be Kashmiris, including the suspension of telecom
proportionate what was actually necessary to and Internet services in the Valley since August 5
combat an emergency. following the abrogation of special status of the
 The State should resort to the least restrictive erstwhile State under Article 370.
measure while taking into consideration the facts  Publication of these orders would now enable the
and circumstances. affected persons to challenge their legality in the
Jammu and Kashmir High Court.
Court observation on implementation of
Section 144 Need to make Internet services a basic
 The orders of restriction issued under Section 144 fundamental right
of the Code of Criminal Procedure (Cr.PC) could Recent Supreme Court judgement on suspension
not be used as a tool to suppress legitimate of internet facility in Kashmir had held that right
expressions, opinions and grievances in a expression and free speech on internet is a
democracy. fundamental right. However, it has not
 Orders issued under Section 144 in Jammu and declared right to internet as fundamental
right.
Kashmir did not explain that restrictions were
 Arbitrary and unreasonable Internet shutdowns by
imposed in anticipation of a threat to law and
the government is a violation of the fundamental
order or to prevent loss of life and property.
rights to information, education and free speech
 Divergent views and disapproval of government
protected by the Constitution.
action could not lead to imposition of Section 144.
 Suspension and shutdown of the Internet and
 The power was meant to be used only in case of
communication services is an infringement of the
public emergency or in the interest of public safety.
freedom and rights guaranteed and safeguarded
 Magistrates could not apply a strait-jacket formula
under Articles 19 and 21.
without assessing the objective and material facts.
 Access to Internet is a fundamental right, which
cannot be taken away arbitrarily, a single bench of
Court observations on curbing basic rights
Justice PV Asha‘s of the Kerala high court has
 Review ―forthwith‖ any existing orders that restrict
ruled. The Human Rights Council of the UN has
basic rights and free movement in Jammu and
also found right to access to Internet is a
Kashmir.
fundamental freedom and a tool to ensure right to
education.
INTEGRATED ROAD ACCIDENT DATABASE

GS-II POLITY
Context Integrated Road Accident Database (IRAD)

 The government launched a central accident  The Indian Institute of Technology-Madras (IIT-
database management system that will help in M), has developed it.
analysing causes of road crashes and in devising  The National Informatics Centre will implement it.
safety interventions to reduce such accidents in the  The project costs Rs.258 crore and is being
country. supported by the World Bank.
28
 The system will be first piloted in the six States Working of Integrated Road Accident Database
with highest fatalities from road crashes — (IRAD)
Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra,  The IRAD mobile application will enable police
Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh. personnel to enter details about a road accident,
 The IRAD will be improved on the basis of the along with photos and videos, following which a
learnings from the trial, following which it will be unique ID will be created for the incident.
rolled out across the country.  Subsequently, an engineer from the Public Works
Department or the local body will visit the accident
Road Accidents in India site, examine it, and feed the required details, such
 India sees the largest number of road fatalities in as the road design.
the world.  Data thus collected will be analysed by a team at
 More than 1.5 lakh people lost their lives in road IIT-M, which will then suggest if corrective
crashes in the country in 2018. measures in road design need to be taken.
 Road users will also be able to upload data on road
accidents on a separate mobile application.
CURATIVE AND REVIEW PETITION

GS-II POLITY
Context  Under review petition, Court is not allowed to take

 A five-judge Supreme Court Bench rejected the fresh stock of the case but to correct grave errors
curative petitions of Vinay Sharma and Mukesh that have resulted in the miscarriage of justice.
Singh, who were sentenced to death in the 2012  Any person aggrieved by a ruling can seek a review
Nirbhaya gang rape and murder case. and file a review petition. However, court has its
discretion to allow a review petition.
About Curative petition
 Curative is a rare remedy devised by a Constitution Conditions for Review petition
Bench of the Supreme Court in its judgment in the  To correct a ―patent error‖ and not ―minor
Rupa Ashok Hurra case in 2002. mistakes of inconsequential import‖.
 A party can take only two limited grounds in a  A review can be accepted ―only where a glaring
curative petition — omission or patent mistake or like grave
o One, he was not heard by the court before the error has crept in earlier by judicial
adverse judgment was passed fallibility‖.
o Two, the judge was biased.  Mistake or error apparent on the face of the
 A curative plea, which follows the dismissal of record.
review petition, is the last legal resort.  Any other sufficient reason. It means a reason that
is analogous to the other two grounds.
About Review Petition  A review is not an appeal whereby an erroneous
 According to constitution, a judgment of the decision is reheard and corrected but lies only for
Supreme Court (SC) becomes the law of the land. patent error.
 Under Article-137, SC can review its own decision,  Possibility of two views on the subject cannot be a
which is known as review petition. ground for review.
ARTICLE 131 OF THE CONSTITUTION

GS-II POLITY
Context Constitutionality of the suit

 Kerala became the first State to join citizens across  The original suit has been filed under Article 131 of
the country's spectrum to challenge in the the Constitution, Which states Supreme Court has
“original‖ jurisdiction in
Supreme Court the constitutionality of the o Disputes between States or the Centre and State(s)
Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA). o Matters regarding the enforcement of
Fundamental Rights.
29
o Any dispute between the Indian Government and Supreme Court Judgement on Article 256
one or more States on one side and one or more State of Madhya Pradesh vs Union of India
States on the other side.  States cannot challenge a central law under Article
o Disputes between States. 131.
 Article 256
o The executive power of every State shall be so State of Jharkhand Vs State of Bihar
exercised as to ensure compliance with the laws  Took the opposite view in 2015 and referred the
made by Parliament and any existing laws, which question of law to a larger Bench of the Supreme
apply in that State. Court for final determination.
o The executive power of the Union shall extend to
the giving of such directions to a State as may Details of the Suit
appear to the Government of India to be necessary  Besides the CAA, the suit also challenges other
for that purpose. laws that affect citizenships, including Passport
Rules and Foreign Order Amendments as ―class
Details in the suit legislations, which harp on the religious identity of
 States would be compelled under Article 256 to an individual, thereby contravening the principles
comply with the CAA, which was ―manifestly of secularism‖.
arbitrary, unreasonable, irrational and violative of  It said that the CAA, by making concessions for
fundamental rights‖. grant of citizenship to illegal migrants who flee
 There exists a dispute, involving questions of law persecution from Afghanistan, Pakistan and
and facts between the State of Kerala and the Bangladesh was discriminatory and irrational.
Union of India  The law welcomes ―illegal migrants‖ into India
o Regarding the enforcement of legal rights as a selectively on the basis of their religion and
State pointedly excludes Muslims.
o Enforcement of the fundamental, statutory  They have contended that the CAA shares an
constitutional and other legal rights of the ―unholy nexus‖ with the National Register of
inhabitants of the State of Kerala. Citizens (NRC) and is against principles of
secularism, right to equality and dignity of life
Challenge enshrined in the Basic Structure of the
 Whether a State can file an original suit under Constitution.
Article 131 to challenge the constitutionality of a
central law.
EMPOWERED MAYORS
GS-II POLITY
Context  The Economic Survey of 2017-18 notes that a third

 Metros have been deprived of empowered Mayors, of the population now lives in urban areas, which
who can raise efficiency, productivity and produce three-fifths of the GDP.
liveability.  India‘s overflowing cities lack capacity,
infrastructure and leadership.
Case Study  Smart cities depend on good leaders.
Delhi government Chief Minister‘s reputation is  Government departments will feel accountable for
more as a super Mayor in a city-State. His works
urban services and infrastructure only under the
denotes what an empowered mayor can do.
watch of an empowered leader, who enjoys the
 Education budget is 27.8% and continues to tower
mandate of the city‘s residents.
over the States that average 15.8%.
 For health, the allocation of 13.8% dwarfs the 5.2% Reasons for underpowered Mayors
that others spend on average.  Mayors in many global cities go on to lead their
 Delhi‘s Mohalla Clinics — to provide coverage to all country, which possibly explains why they have
within a range of 1 km, are seen by public health been reduced to obscure, ceremonial figures by
researchers as a good model for a national national parties in India.
universal health coverage programme.  Chief Ministers see a potential threat from a
charismatic and empowered Mayor with
Need for empowered mayor
progressive policies.
 Empowered Mayors can raise efficiency,
productivity and liveability.
30
 Empowered mayors could steal the limelight  A tenure of five years for Mayors is available only
through spectacular successes, leaving Chief in a fifth of the biggest cities.
Ministers and legislators with little direct connect  Half of urban Indians live in cities where Mayors
with urban voters. can be in office for just two-and-a-half years.
 States have used the excuse of poor performance of
urban local bodies as a justification to replace Impact of underpowered mayors
direct election of Mayors with an indirect system.  In some States, elections to urban local bodies
 Lack of authority with Mayors Subjects devolved in have not been held for years, defeating the lofty
Tamil Nadu in all these years is nine, and does not goal of decentralised governance.
include the major municipal services, which  Lack of coherence in government is hindering
continue to be run by parastatal authorities that better productivity and causing losses through
answer to State governments. pollution, congestion and poor outcomes on
 Newer devices used to bypass local bodies and infrastructure investments.
priorities are styled as special schemes, such as  Flawed priorities
urban renewal and smart cities, directly supervised  Fragmented administration.
by the Central government and partnered by State  Low capacity of City administration.
governments.
Conclusion
Reality of Mayor Office  In the coming decade, progress on Sustainable
 The present system does not help directly elected Development Goals, the Paris Agreement on
Mayors. Climate Change and the UN Habitat New Urban
 The Annual Survey of India‘s City-Systems Agenda will come under close international
(ASICS) found 33% of medium and large cities scrutiny.
with a provision for directly elected Mayors, but  India‘s cities need a new deal, one that is focused
none in the mega cities. on development. Only elected, empowered and
accountable Mayors can deliver on that.
E-MOBILITY MISSION
GS-II POLITY
E-mobility Mission
 Governmental apathy has violated the  It is expected to save 9500 million litres of crude
fundamental rights of citizens to health and clean oil equivalent to Rs. 62000 crores savings.
environment guaranteed under Articles 14 and 21  It is a composite scheme using different policy-
of the Constitution. levers such as
 The government had failed in its obligation to o Demand side incentives to facilitate
mitigate the impact of climate change and air acquisition of hybrid/electric vehicles
pollution. o Promoting R&D in technology including
 Due to lack of implementation of the battery technology, power electronics, motors,
recommendations, as of January 2019, only 0.263 systems integration, battery management
million Electric Vehicles have been sold in the system, testing infrastructure, and ensuring
country so far. industry participation in the same
 Total allocation by the Union of India thus far has o Promoting charging infrastructure
been woefully inadequate at Rs. 579 crores. o Supply side incentives
o Encouraging retro-fitment of on-road vehicles
E-mobility mission with hybrid kit
 It is a National Mission document providing the
vision and the roadmap for the faster adoption of Implementation of E-mobility Mission
electric vehicles and their manufacturing in the  As part of the National Electric Mobility Mission
country. Plan (NEMMP) 2020, Department of Heavy
 There is an ambitious target to achieve 6-7 million Industry formulated a Scheme viz. Faster Adoption
sales of hybrid and electric vehicles year on year and Manufacturing of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehicles
from 2020 onwards. in India (FAME India) Scheme in the year 2015 to
 Government aims to provide fiscal and monetary promote manufacturing of electric and hybrid
incentives to kick start this nascent technology. vehicle technology.
31
 Target of FAME scheme  Other Initiatives to Promote e-mobility

 Demand Creation  Under new GST regime, the rates of GST on
 Technology Platform Electric Vehicles has been kept in the lower
 Pilot Project bracket of 12% (with no Cess) as against the 28%
 Charging Infrastructure. GST rate with cess up to 22% for conventional
 Grants were sanctioned for specific projects under vehicles.
Pilot Projects, R&D/Technology Development and  Ministry of Power has allowed sale of electricity as
Public Charging Infrastructure components under ‗service‘ for charging of electric vehicles. This
the scheme. would provide a huge incentive to attract
 Demand incentives was aimed at incentivizing all investments into charging infrastructure.
vehicle segments i.e. 2-Wheelers, 3-Wheelers Auto,  Ministry of Road Transport Highways issued
Passenger 4-Wheeler vehicles, Light Commercial notification regarding exemption of permit in case
Vehicles and Buses. of battery-operated vehicles.
 Market creation through demand incentives was  Issue of Expression of Interest (EoI) for
aimed at incentivizing all vehicle segments i.e. 2- deployment of 5000 electric buses by State
Wheelers, 3-Wheelers Auto, Passenger 4-Wheeler Transport Departments/Undertakings etc.
vehicles, Light Commercial Vehicles and Buses.
CENSUS
GS-II POLITY
Census drive they own a laptop, computer, telephone,

 It will have two phases mobile phone, among other things.
 ‗Population enumeration‘ phase  2021 would be the first-ever Census to be
 House Listing and Housing Census conducted with a mixed mode approach
 ‗Population enumeration‘ phase  A mobile app (created in-house by the RGI
 It will be carried out from February 9 to 28, office)
2021.  Will have the facility for online self-enumeration
 It will have the facility of online self- for the public during the population
enumeration for the public. enumeration phase.
 Respondent could register online and fill in the
details and share the reference number with About Census
the enumerators when they arrive.  The Indian census is the largest administrative and
 It will not be available in the first phase. statistical exercise in the world, with more than 30
 House Listing and Housing Census lakh functionaries and at the cost of about 8700
 It is to be carried out from April 1 to crore rupees.
September 30 this year.  Confidentiality of data is guaranteed by Census
 The National Population Register (NPR) will Act, 1948.
also be updated simultaneously in the first  Same law specifies penalty for both public and
phase. census officials for non-compliance or violation
 The information asked would be whether the of any provision of the Act.
respondent has access to LPG/PNG  The decennial Census of India has been conducted
connection. 15 times as of 2011.
 If the person owns a radio, transistor or  It has been undertaken every 10 years, beginning
television has access to the Internet; whether in 1872 under British Viceroy Lord Mayo, the first
complete census was taken in 1881.
DEMOCRACY INDEX
GS-II POLITY
Context Survey findings for India

 Democracy Index released by ―The Economist‖.  Primary cause of ―the democratic regression‖ is
―an erosion of civil liberties in the country‖.
32
 India‘s overall score fell from 7.23 to 6.9, on a scale

of 0-10, within a year (2018-2019) — the country‘s
lowest since 2006.
 The report talks about the repeal of both Article
370 and Article 35A and how ahead of the move,
―the government deployed a large number of
troops in J&K, imposed various other security
measures and placed local leaders under house
arrest, including those with pro-India credentials.‖
 The government also restricted Internet access in
the State.
 NRC exercise in Assam excluded 1.9 million people
and fair elections and where basic civil liberties are
from the final list, and that ―the vast majority of
respected.
people excluded from the NRC are Muslims.‖
 Have significant weaknesses in some aspects of
 The new citizenship law has enraged the large
democracy,
Muslim population, stoked communal tensions
o Such as problems in governance
and generated large protests in major cities.
o An underdeveloped political culture
o Low levels of political participation.
Survey findings for world

 The average global score also recorded its worst
value ever, down from 5.48 in 2018 to 5.44, driven
by a sharp regression in Latin America and Sub-
Saharan Africa.
 There are only 22 ―full democracies‖ as compared
to 54 ―authoritarian regimes‖.
About the survey

 It was done by The Economist Intelligence Unit —
the research and analysis division of The
Economist Group.
Methodology of the survey

 India was graded in electoral process and
pluralism (8.67), government functioning (6.79),
Flawed democracy in India political participation (6.67), political culture
 The Index also categorises India under ―flawed (5.63) and civil liberties (6.76).
democracies‖. It means countries that hold free
CRIMINALISATION OF POLITICS
GS-II POLITY
Court Observation  Rapid criminalization of politics cannot be

 Just a move to steer politics away from the arrested by merely disqualifying tainted legislators
denizens of the criminal world would definitely but should begin by ―cleansing‖ the political
serve national and public interest. parties.
 Election Commission had tried several measures to  Parliament frame a law that makes it obligatory for
curb criminalization of politics, but to no avail. political parties to remove leaders charged with
 Agreed to examine a proposition made by the ―heinous and grievous‖ crimes like rape, murder
Election Commission (EC) to ask political parties and kidnapping, only to a name a few and refuse
to not give ticket to those with criminal ticket to offenders in both parliamentary and
antecedents. Assembly polls.
 It had also issued guidelines, including that both
Supreme Court Judgment in September 2018 the candidate and the political party should
 Urged Parliament to bring a ―strong law‖ to declare the criminal antecedents of the former in
cleanse political parties of leaders facing trial for widely-circulated newspapers.
serious crimes.
33
About Criminalisation of Politics things done. These candidates can get public
 Criminalisation of Politics refer to a situation service delivery.
where criminals start entering politics through use
of Money or muscle power. Impact of Criminalisation of Politics
 N N Vohra committee had defined it where  Law breakers become the law makers. This
criminals are either given patronage by the destroys the trust in the democracy and sets a
political parties in lieu of assistance provided by wrong precedent for people.
them during the election process or criminal enter  Parliamentarian needs to be ideal citizen for
the Politics through money and muscle power. development of egalitarian society. But, criminals
 Current Parliament has highest no of MP with becoming the trustee of power send wrong
criminal background. 43% of elected MP in 2019, message to society and corrupts the moral fabric.
39% of elected MP in 2014 has serious criminal  Continuous electoral reforms are necessary to
charges against them. Major parties are fielding ensure free and fair elections but such MPs
criminal background candidates. obstruct the process of electoral reforms.
 Rise of crony capitalism as these legislatures
Reasons behind rise of Criminalisation in engage in dishonest practices to amass the wealth.
Politics It leads to wastage of public resources and poor
Supply side and demand side factors are at work. development in the country.
 Politicisation of law enforcement machinery which
Supply side factors Motivation for criminals to
leads to breakdown of law and order. Rule of law is
enter the process
a mandatory condition for development and
 Collapse of electoral financing Candidates who are
growth.
richer are likely to win the election.
 Complete breakdown of law and order Makes Steps taken to deal with this issue
easier for criminal background to easier the  Supreme Court in Alternative dispute resolution
contest elections. Judicial delays help them. (ADR) case 2002 made it mandatory for candidate
 Nothing in RPA acts to prohibit them from to publish his criminal cases pending against them.
contesting election.  In lily Thomas case, Supreme Court held that if a
 Politics of self-preservation Any criminal winning MP is convicted for more than 2 years, then he
the election will use law enforcement machinery to would be disqualified for 6 more years. His seat
target his adversary and ensure that it does not would automatically vacant in the legislature.
chases his own case. Politicisation of CBI is  Supreme court directed government to set up
testimony of it. special court to take up cases against MP and
MLA. 12 fast track courts have been set up for
Demand side Why voters elect them
cases against MP and MLA.
 Honest candidates do not have money power to
fund their expenses. Contesting a MP level seat Way forward
costs around 3.5 crores to 10 crores.  Needs to clear the mess around campaign finance
 Major parties do not give tickets to honest  State capacity to deliver public service needs to be
candidates as they would like candidate to bear strengthened. Digital India, good governance and
their own expenditure. Often they like to finance rights based approach is the need of hour. Public
party campaign also. service needs to be equitable in power.
 Voters consciously elect such candidates due to  Institutions dealing with rule of law needs to be
failure of governance. These candidates have strengthened. Police reform along the line of
generally good political connection and can get Supreme Court directives can go a long way to deal
with criminalisation of politics.
PHASES OF CONSTITUTIONAL INTERPRETATION

GS-II POLITY
Context Text as Phase one

 The Constitution of India came into force 70 years  The Supreme Court adopted a textual approach,
ago, on January 26, 1950. focusing on the plain meaning of the words used in
the Constitution.
Interpretation of constitution by judiciary over  In A K Gopalan Case, Supreme court decided
the years that Articles 19 (Right to freedom), Art. 21 (Right
34
to life) and Art. 22 (Protection against arbitrary Reasons behind decline of reasoning within the
arrest and detention) covered different subject court
matters and were to be read as separate codes  Court strength grew from 8 to 32. Court began to
rather than being read together. sit in the bench of 2 or more judges.
 The Court read that the Constitution literally  It effectively transformed itself into a ―polyvocal‖
concluded that there were no limitations on group of about a dozen sub-Supreme Courts.
parliament to amend the constitution.  The Court began deciding cases based on a certain
conception of its own role — whether as sentinel of
Phase two- The structure democracy or protector of the market economy.
 Appeals to the text of the Constitution were  It side-lined reason-giving in preference to arriving
gradually overtaken by appeals to the at outcomes that match the Court‘s perception.
Constitution‘s overall structure and coherence.  Different Benches adopted inconsistent
 In the leading case of KesavanandaBharati vs. interpretive approaches based on their conception
State of Kerala (1973), Supreme Court concluded of the Court‘s role
that the Parliament‘s power to amend the
Constitution did not extend to altering its ―Basic Impact of failure of court
structure‖. And what constitutes basic structure is  It led to serious doctrinal incoherence and
completely defined by the Court. inconsistency across the law.
 Court also categorically rejected the Gopalan
approach in favour of a structuralistic one in Phase four-Purpose
Maneka Gandhi vs. Union of India (1978).  The Court has acknowledged as critical to its
 The Court conceived of the fundamental rights as a interpretive exercise the purpose for which the
cohesive bill of rights rather than a miscellaneous Constitution has been enacted.
grouping of constitutional guarantees.  The Court is now beginning to interpret the
 The right to life was incrementally interpreted to Constitution in accordance with its revolutionary
include a wide range of rights such as clean air, and transformative potential.
speedy trial and free legal aid.  With about a dozen significant Constitution Bench
 This phase paved the way for court to play decisions from the Supreme Court since
proactive role in governance of the country. September 2018, there has been a renaissance in
In both the phases, significant decisions involving decision-making by Constitution Benches.
the interpretation of the Constitution were  It includes cases like striking down the section 377
entrusted to Constitution Benches (comprising five and the criminal offence of adultery and including
or more judges of court) and were carefully (even if the office of the Chief Justice of India within the
incorrectly) reasoned. scope of the Right to Information Act.
Eclecticism as phase three Challenges

 Supreme Court‘s interpretive philosophy turned  Facets of phase 3 continue to linger on in the
far more result-oriented than it had ever been. courts.
 Court often surrendered its responsibility of  Cases that involve substantial questions of
engaging in a thorough rights reasoning of the interpretation of the Constitution — such as the
issues before it. cases concerning the National Register of Citizens
and the electoral bonds scheme — are still being
adjudicated upon by benches of two or three
judges.
LEGISLATIVE COUNCILS IN STATES

GS-II POLITY
Context
 The Andhra Pradesh Assembly passed a resolution  At the state level, the equivalent of the Lok Sabha
to abolish the state‘s Legislative Council, where the is the Vidhan Sabha or Legislative Assembly; that
opposition Telugu Desam Party (TDP) has a
of the Rajya Sabha is the Vidhan Parishad or
majority.
About legislative councils Legislative Council.
 India has a bicameral system i.e. two Houses of
Parliament.
35
Constitutional Provision for legislative  Not an Effective Check Powers of the Legislative
councils Councils are limited to the extent that they can
 Under Article 169 of the constitution, Parliament hardly impose any effective check on the
may by law create or abolish the second chamber Assemblies. It can only delay a bill by four months.
in a state if the Legislative Assembly of that state  Backdoor Entrance of the Defeated Members It is
passes a resolution to that effect by a special apprehended by the critics that a Legislative
majority. Council may be utilized to accommodate
Strength of the councils
discredited party-men who may not be returned to
 Membership may vary, but the Legislative Council
must not have more than a third of the total the Assemblies.
membership of the Assembly of that state and in  Costly Institution Bicameralism in the States is an
no case fewer than 40 members. expensive experiment and a big drain on the
 About 1/3rd of members are elected by members State‘s exchequer.
of the Assembly, another 1/3rd by electorates  A Heterogeneous Chamber A blend of direct
consisting of members of municipalities, district election, indirect election and nomination makes
boards and other local authorities in the state,
1/12th by an electorate consisting of teachers and the Council a hotchpotch of representation. A
1/12th by registered graduates. chamber so heterogeneously constituted, neither
 The remaining members are nominated by the serves the purpose of a revisory chamber nor acts
Governor from among those who have as an effective brake against hasty legislation.
distinguished themselves in literature, science, art,
the cooperative movement and social service. Councils in other states
 Legislative Councils are permanent Houses and Besides Andhra Pradesh, five other states have
like Rajya Sabha, one-third of their members retire
VidhanParishads — Bihar (58 members),
every two years.
Karnataka (75), Maharashtra (78), Telangana (40),
Need of the legislative councils UP (100). Jammu and Kashmir had a Council until
 To act as a check on hasty actions by the popularly the state was bifurcated into the Union Territories
elected House. of J&K and Ladakh.
 To ensure that individuals who might not be cut
out for the rough-and-tumble of direct elections
too are able to contribute to the legislative process.
 Having a second chamber would allow for more
debate and sharing of work between the Houses.
Challenges in the functioning of legislative FACT-FINDER

councils
 Superfluous legislative appendages If a majority of
the members in the upper house belong to the
same party which holds majority in the lower
house, the upper house will become a mere ditto
chamber.
FACT-FINDER
36
CANCER BURDEN
GS-II HEALTH
Context
 According to World Health Organization (WHO)
Report, one in 10 Indian will develop cancer
during their lifetimeand one in 15 Indians will die
of cancer.
What types of cancers are increasing?

 The burden of breast cancer and colorectal cancer,
associated with overweight and obesity, lower
levels of physical activity and sedentary lifestyles
are increasing.
Major reason behind the rise

 The WHO has pointed out higher
socioeconomic status, to be the major cause Interventions to prevent new cancer cases
 Controlling tobacco use (responsible for 25%
behind it.
of cancer deaths),
 During the past two decades, India has been one of
 Vaccinating against hepatitis b to prevent liver
the world's best performing and most stable
cancer,
economies.
 Eliminating cervical cancer by vaccinating
 This economic development has given rise to vast
against Human Papilloma Virus (HPV),
socioeconomic disparities, with an increasing risk
 Early detection, screening and treatment,
of non-communicable diseases.
 Ensuring access to primary care and referral
Future looks bleak systems
 WHO has warned that, the world may witness a  Implementing high-impact cancer
60% increase in cancer cases over the next two management interventions that bring value for
decades if the current trend continues. money
 81% new cases will occur in low- and middle-  Ensuring access to palliative care including
income countries where survival rates are pain relief
currently lowest.  Identifying the most appropriate science for
each country situation,
 Reasons- These countries have to focus their
 Basing strong cancer responses on universal
limited health resources on combating infectious
health coverage, and
diseases and improving maternal and child health.
 Mobilizing different stakeholders to work
Health services are not equipped to prevent,
together
diagnose and treat cancers.
BUDGET 2020: HEALTHCARE SECTOR

GS-II HEALTH
Context Proposals made

 Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced Government is envisaging to
an outlay of about Rs 68,000 crores for the health  Attach a Medical College with existing District
sector in the 2020-2021 Budget. Hospitals in Public-private partnership (PPP)
mode to address the shortage of qualified doctors.
37
 Set up large hospitals to offer resident doctors

diploma and fellow of National Board (DNB/FNB)
courses under the National Board of Examination.
 Focus on medical infrastructure, human resources
in the health sector, and holistic health and
wellness.
 Create hospitals in those aspirational districts,
which do not have empanelled hospitals under
Ayushman Bharat PMJAY.
 Set up Viability Gap funding window for setting up
hospitals in the PPP (private-public-partnership)
mode.
 Expand Jan Aushadhi Kendra Scheme to all
districts by 2024.
 Give a nominal health cess of 5% on imports of
specified medical equipment
 Expand government’s flagship scheme - Ayushman
under Drug Prices Control Order has failed to
Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana
make drugs affordable. Instead, it led to a hike in
(ABPMJAY).
prices of such products as compared to
Issues unregulated ones.
 Healthcare inflation in India is between 14 per  Primary healthcare, which is the backbone of the
cent and 16 per cent. healthcare system, has not seen additional
 Government hospitals and institutes across India proposed allocation.
are grappling with
Additional steps needed
 Escalating patient load,
 Inclusion of diagnostics expenditures under the
 Treatment costs
ambit of insurance. As this would further help
 Larger number of patients needing more
Indian consumers to reduce their financial burden.
expensive treatment
 To make Ayushman Bharat viable, it is important
 The financial constraints for example in
to
ABPMJAY, at Rs 6,000 crores, are Rs 400 crores
 bring down of taxes on medical devices
less than for the current financial year. This point
 Encourage the manufacture of medical
out that the allocations are insufficient to make
equipment and devices in India.
healthcare schemes a success.
 Exemption of the cess on imported medical
 No clarity on how the government is specifically
equipment.
increasing its commitment under National Health
 Scaling up infrastructure and capabilities of
Policy to invest 2.5 per cent of GDP in healthcare.
hospitals.
Even 2.5 per cent is too low if compared with
BRICS countries.  Comprehensive law to address issues of non-
compliance of medical establishments and
 The Economic Survey also admitted that the
healthcare professionals. Regular drill in all
government’s price capping of essential medicines
medical establishments.
In News
Pakistan has become the first country in the world to introduce World Health Organization-recommended typhoid conjugate
vaccine (TCV) in its national immunization program.In this big move, an India-made vaccine Typbar TCV, will play a
significant role. About 1.2 crores doses of the vaccine have been supplied by Hyderabad-based Bharat Biotech for this
initiative.
 Typbar TCV is the world’s first clinically proven conjugate Typhoid vaccine made by India. Further, Typbar TCV is the
only approved vaccine for children and infants less than 2 years of age.
38
PREVALENCE OF OBESITY IN CHILDREN

GS-II HEALTH
Context
 According to the World Obesity Federation’s urbanization.
Global study, around 28 million children in
India will be obese by the year 2030. Heath Implication of Childhood Obesity
 Obese children are at increased risk of
Highlights of the Report hypertension, osteoarthritis, high cholesterol and
 The prevalence of obesity in Indian children triglycerides, Type 2 diabetes, coronary heart
and teenagers has increased significantly disease, stroke, gallbladder disease, respiratory
during 1990-2017. (Annual rise4.98 %.) problems, emotional disturbances, and some
 250 millionchildren will be obese worldwideby cancers.
2030.  Two in three obese children will remain obese as
 India would continue to rank second in the adults and at risk for adult lifestyle diseases.
world in terms of the high number of obese  India is projected to become the diabetes capital
people. in the world.
The present scenario Prevention of Childhood Obesity

 Childhood obesity is now an EPIDEMIC in India.  Strategies to prevent obesity include:
 With 14.4 million obese children, India has the  Increase fruit and vegetable intake.
second highest number of obese children in the  Reducing TV viewing. Eating while
world, next to China. viewing TV is a major cause of excess food
intake. Commercials lead children towards
Causes of Childhood Obesity fast foods.
 Imbalance between calories consumed and energy  Reduce sugar intake. Sugar is now called
spent. the new ‘tobacco’ and must be limited at
 A global shift in diet towards increased intake of all ages.
energy-dense foods -- high in fat and sugars but  Water instead of sweetened drinks.
low in vitamins, minerals and other healthy  Encourage physical activity.
essential micronutrients.  Fast foods are rich in sugar, fats, and salt
 Decreased physical activity levels due to the and should be restricted.
increasingly sedentary nature of recreation time,  Parents as Role Models for Children: Children see
changing modes of transportation, and increasing what parents eat. Healthy eating includes
consuming more fruit, vegetables, legumes and
whole-grain and nuts. It is important to limit the
number of fats and shift fat consumption from
saturated fats to unsaturated fats.
 Other interventions includerestricting advertising
of unhealthy junk foods to children and improving
school meals.
 In 2015, Union Minister for Women and Child
Development Maneka Gandhi proposed a ban on
junk food in schools.
 Recently, the Maharashtra government issued a
notification instructing schools to stop serving
junk food in their canteens. Other states should
follow the same course and ensure enforcement
and compliance.
39
INDIA FIT REPORT 2020

GS-II HEALTH
Context Highlights of the Report

 The GOQii India Fit Report 2020 was recently  Only 38% of people are healthy.
launched.  Chandigarh has been found to be the healthiest
city in India, while Kolkata scored the lowest.
About India Fit Report  Women are unhealthier than men with 71% of
 The India Fit Report is a result of a yearlong study
women falling in the unhealthy category in the
of the health and lifestyle of Indians.
Health Risk Assessment spectrum.
 The study undertakes a Health Risk Assessment
 Young adults between ages 19 and 30 have
(HRA) by tracking dataof5 million users on their
developed the unhealthiest habits, including
GOQii application.
drinking and smoking, becoming victims of
 HRA considers factors such as current body lifestyle diseases and mental health issues like
statistics, medical parameters, current nutrition, stress and depression.
physical activity, stress, sleep, alcohol, smoking,
 A high percentage of people suffer from cholesterol
current illness, lifestyle diseases, immunity levels,
issues, thyroid, high blood pressure, low immunity
symptoms or health indicators.
levels, indigestion issues aches and pains,
GOQii is a smart-tech enabled, integrated preventive menstrual issues.
healthcare platform headquartered in California that  In terms of cities, Chennai has the worst Body
provides an end-to-end healthcare and wellness Mass Index (BMI) rank across all cities.
experience for users. It offers a wearable fitness band
with a mobile-app, and personalized remote  Bangalore is the fourth healthiest city in the
coaching. country.
In News: Hemorrhagic septicemia

Hemorrhagic septicemia (HS) is an acute, highly fatal form of pasteurellosis that affects mainly water buffalo, cattle,
and bison. It is a bacterial disease prevalent in cattle in tropical areas of Asia, particularly in Southeast Asia. It is
characterized by fever, catarrhal symptoms, pneumonia, and general blood infection.
 Pasteurellosis is a zoonotic disease. It is caused by infection with bacteria of the Pasteurella genus.
CORONAVIRUS
GS-II HEALTH
Context
 An outbreak of a new strain of Corona  It causes a respiratory illness called COVID-19,
virusaffected and killed thousands with viral which can spread from person to person.
pneumonia without any prior symptoms.  The novel corona virus officially named as Covid-
19 by the WHO, has spread to 26 more countries
Corona viruses apart from China.
 Corona viruses (CoV) are a large family of viruses
 Amid the rising spread of Corona virus (2019-
that cause illness ranging from the common cold to
nCoV), the World Health Organization (WHO) has
more severe diseases such as Middle East
declared the virus outbreak a Public Health
Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) and Severe
Emergency of International Concern
Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV).
(PHEIC).
 A novel corona virus (nCoV) is a new strain that
has not been previously identified in humans.
40
A Public Health Emergency of

International Concern (PHEIC) is a formal
declaration by the World Health Organization
(WHO) of - "an extraordinary event which is
determined to constitute a public health risk to
other States through the international spread of
disease and to potentially require a coordinated
international response".
It is declare when
 A situation arises that is "serious,
sudden, unusual or unexpected",
 Which "carries implications for public
health beyond the affected State's
national border" and
 "May require immediate international
action".
Under the 2005 International Health

Regulations (IHR), states have a legal duty to
respond promptly to a PHEIC.
Since 2009, there have been six PHEIC
declarations:
 The 2009 H1N1 (or swine flu)
pandemic,
 The 2014 polio declaration,
 The 2014 outbreak of Ebola in Western
Africa,
 The 2015–16 Zika virus epidemic,
 The 2018–20 Kivu Ebola epidemic,
 The 2019–20 novel corona
virusoutbreaks.
The recommendations are temporary and
require reviews every three months.
41
Plausible impact of Corona virus on India

 A recent study suggested that India is among the
top 30 countries with a high risk of Corona virus
outbreak.
 There have been three confirmed cases of corona
virus in the southern state of Kerala.
 If it spreads in India, the epidemic could
jeopardize millions of lives.
 The disruption caused could affect India’s imports
from China, which is critical for India’s domestic
economic activity.
 Finding substitutes for imports from China in the
near term could be a challenge.
 The hit on the Chinese economy will have a  Screening of passengers at all major and minor
domino effect on a host of sectors in India. seaports and borders crossing and integrated
check posts.
Government interventions  Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme
 The Government has issued guidelines. These (IDSP) has been geared up to track and follow up
includes - passengers coming from China, Hong Kong,
 Surveillance and contact tracing, Thailand and Singapore.
 Surveillance at Points of Entry,  Gram Sabhas have been conducted in villages
 Laboratory samples collection, adjoining the borders to create awareness amongst
 Packaging and transport, people about the disease and precautions to be
 Clinical management protocol and taken in collaboration with Panchayati Raj
 Infection prevention and control in healthcare Ministry.
facilities.
The Integrated Disease Surveillance program (IDSP) is a disease surveillance scheme under the Ministry of Health
and Family Affairs in India, assisted by the World Bank. The scheme aims to strengthen disease surveillance for
infectious diseases to detect and respond to outbreaks quickly. The scheme seeks to set up a Central Disease
Surveillance Unit and a State Surveillance Unit in each State where data is collected and analyzed. A large amount of
data on disease reports are collected in order to be able to identify the outbreak of a disease, identify its causes and
take corresponding preventive and responsive measures. An early warning system is put into place in order to take
timely preventive steps.
In News: Yada Yada Virus

A novel virus is detected in Australian mosquitoes has been named the Yada Yada virus (YYV).
It is an alpha virus, which belongs to a group that includes other alpha viruses such as chikungunya virus, Astern
equine encephalitis,Tai forest alpha virus and the Agua Salud alpha virus.
The virus poses no threat to human beings, because it is a part of a group of viruses that only infect mosquitoes. The
discovery of the virus does not have any direct implications for human beings but the discovery expands the “diversity
and geographic range” of mosquito-specific alpha virus complexes, which may help in revealing the origin of the virus
and “host switching”.
In News: H9N2
Indian scientists have detected the country’s first case of infection of a baby with a rare variant of the virus called
H9N2. The virus actually causes avian influenza, or bird flu.
H9N2 is a subtype of the influenza A virus, which causes human influenza as well as bird flu. The H9N2
subtype was isolated for the first time in Wisconsin, US in 1966 from turkey flocks.H9N2 virus infections in
humans are rare, but likely under-reported due to typically mild symptoms of the infections. Cases of human
infection have been observed in Hong Kong, China, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Egypt.
42
STUDENTS STRUGGLE IN CAMPUSES

GS-II SOCIAL JUSTICE
Context  Opening new departments that reduce the weight

 The conflicts across campuses in the country is of critical disciplines like the humanities, social
over the concept of a ‗student‘ and sciences and basic sciences.
correspondingly, over the concept of a ‗university‘.  Doing away with reservations in admissions for
students from socially deprived backgrounds, so
Concept of Student that campuses cease to have an inclusive character.
 An individual who is socially sensitive.  Prevent students from participating in
 Uses education in the service of building a demonstrations.
democratic, secular and egalitarian India.  Call the police to the campus to unleash brutality
 One who subjects everything, including on students.
government policy.  Book ‗inconvenient‘ students under one or the
other of the draconian laws that exist on our
Government concept of student statute books.
 Self-centred, self-absorbed buyers of education.  Recognition of a students‘ union articulating
 Do not concern themselves with social issues students‘ perspective goes against the very
 Concentrate their energies on becoming successful conception of a ―student‖.
sellers of labour-power on the job market.  Move to privatise and commercialise education.
 Inert, passive mass of skill-buyers.  One such example is In JNU, the students‘ union
has not even been recognised by the authorities
Concept of University despite a government-appointed committee of
 A site where there is intense and informed critical experts reportedly recommending talks with the
engagement with the burning issues of our time. union leadership.
 Full of political activities.
 Open to all students. Need for Political Universities
 Inclusive in nature.  Students are the most youthful, energetic and
active elements of the intelligentsia.
Government Concept of university  The intelligentsia has an important role to play in
 A site where skills (which are not the same as confronting the currency of unreason, which
education) are sold. substitute‘s mythology for history, beliefs for facts,
 Apolitical in nature and superstition for science.
 Students engages on many issues going from
Methods to make universities apolitical issues of campus democracy, to broader issues like
 Alter the student composition, by raising fees (as the CAA and the National Register of Citizens.
in JNU) so that only rich and career-oriented  They display among themselves the inclusiveness
students come to the university. they would like to see in society.
INFANT MORTALITY RATE (IMR)

Context
 Every day, India witnesses the death of an  Between 2014 and 2017, India‘s IMR has declined
estimated 2,350 babies aged less than one by 15.4%.
year (Infants). Among them, an average 172 are  At a decline rate of 17.4%, Rajasthan has been
from Rajasthan and 98 from Gujarat. ahead of the national average in reducing IMR
while Gujarat has a decline rate of 14.3%.
Mortality Rates  Arunachal, Tripura and Manipur have recorded a
 The infant mortality rate (IMR) in the country negative reduction rate between 2014 and 2017,
currently stands at 33 per 1,000 live births which means child death rates there have gone up.
43
Reasons behind high Infant Mortality Rates hospitals with an annual delivery load more than
 Lack of education among mother 3,000 to provide care for sick newborns.
 Malnutrition (more than half of Indian women are  Early identification and appropriate management
anaemic) of Diarrhoea and Acute Respiratory Infections
 Age of the mother at the time of birth, spacing  Improving Infant and young child feeding
between pregnancy practices including breastfeeding promotion.
 Lack of institutional delivery facilities  Immunisation against seven vaccine preventable
 Children born to mothers with at least 8 years of diseases (Mission Indradhanush).
schooling have 32% lesser chances of dying in  Vitamin A supplementation and Iron and Folic
neonatal period and 52% lesser chances in the Acid supplementation;
post-neonatal period, as compared to the illiterate  Establishment of Nutritional Rehabilitation
mothers. Centres to address severe and acute malnutrition.
 According to the National Family Health Survey-4,  Promotion of institutional deliveries
only 78.9% births in India happen in a facility. through JananiSurakshaYojana (JSY)
 Apart from the obvious infection risks in a non-  Operationalization of sub-centres, Primary Health
institutional birth, vaccine compliance too is Centres, Community Health Centres and District
usually worse in these cases. Hospitals for providing 24x7 basic and
comprehensive obstetric care services
Measures undertaken  Engagement of more than 8.8 lakhs Accredited
 Special newborn care units (SNCUs) have been Social Health Activists (ASHAs) to generate
established at district hospitals and sub-district demand and facilitate accessing of health care
services by the community.
CRIMES AGAINST WOMEN

Context
 The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB)
published the annual Crime in India Report 2018.
Key findings
 3, 78,277 cases of crime against women were
reported in the country, up from 3, 59,849 in 2017.
 Uttar Pradesh topped the list with 59,445 cases,
followed by Maharashtra (35,497) and West
Bengal (30,394).
 The conviction rate in rape-related cases stood at
27.2% even though the rate of filing charge sheets
was 85.3% in such cases. increase of 3.6% from 2017 when 1, 29,887 cases
 Major share of crimes against women were reported.
o Cruelty by husband or his relatives (31.9%)  The highest number of suicide victims were daily
o Assault on women with intent to outrage her wagers — 26,589, comprising 22.4% of such
modesty (27.6%) deaths.
 The crime rate per lakh population, however, came
down from 388.6 in 2017 to 383.5 in 2018. About NCRB
 The incidents registered under the Scheduled  The National Crime Records Bureau, abbreviated
to NCRB, is an Indian government agency
Caste and Scheduled Tribes related Acts saw a
responsible for collecting and analysing crime data
decline from 6729 incidents reported in 2017 to
as defined by the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and
4816 in 2018.
Special and Local Laws (SLL)
Accidental Death and Suicides in India 2018  NCRB is headquartered in New Delhi and is part of
 NCRB data shows that 10,349 people working in the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA),
the farm sector ended their lives in 2018, Government of India.
accounting for 7.7 % of the total number of  NCRB was set-up in 1986 to function as a
suicides in the country. The total number of people repository of information on crime and criminals
who committed suicide in 2018 was 1, 34,516, an so as to assist the investigators in linking crime to
44
the perpetrators.  Lead and coordinate development of IT

applications and create an enabling IT
Objectives of NCRB environment for Police organizations.
 Create and maintain secure sharable National
Databases on crimes and criminals for law National repository of fingerprints of criminals
enforcement agencies and promote their use for  To evaluate, modernize and promote automation
public service delivery. in State Crime Records Bureau and State Finger
 Collect and process crime statistics at the national Print Bureau.
level and clearing house of information on crime  Training and capacity building in Police Forces in
and criminals both at National and International Information Technology and Finger Print Science.
levels.
VECTOR BORNE DISEASE MANAGEMENT

Context  There is a lack of coordination between the local

 Recently, a new tetravalent vaccine against the bodies and health departments in the delivery of
dengue virus has been tested. public health measures.
 This vaccine confers about 80% protection to  Medicine practitioners often argue that a proper
children vaccinated between 4 to 16 years of age double blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial
without any major side effects. cannot be conducted as it involves huge money
and manpower.
About Dengue
 It is a tropical disease that occurs in the countries Holistic management of Dengue
around the Equator.  These mosquitoes bite during the daytime, so
 Aedesaegypti mosquitoes transmits dengue virus keeping the windows shut in the day hours is also
as they act as its vectors. useful.
 Aedes eggs can remain dormant for more than a  Preventing water stagnation
year.  Spreading chemicals in periodic cycles to kill the
larvae.
Reasons behind spread of Dengue  Singapore uses successful model of mapping and
 Poor Urbanization analyzing data on dengue, using Geographical
 Poor town planning Information System (GIS). This involves mapping
 Improper sanitation the streets with dengue cases for vector densities.
 Dengue cases are often under-reported due to  Fluid management is the cornerstone in the
political reasons management of severe diseases like dengue
 Low number of skilled manpower hemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome.
 Due to this deficiency of manpower, active WHO recommends fresh whole blood or packed
surveillance is not being done in India, according cell transfusion in the event of bleeding.
to National Vector Borne Disease Control  Increase the number of personnel in the healthcare
Program. sector. Delhi government Mohalla Clinic is a
successful model to engage local community in
effective management of Dengue.
PROTECTION OF LANGUAGES UNDER 8TH

SCHEDULE
Context Constitutional Provisions for languages

 According to the 2001, Census, India has 30  Article 29 of the Constitution provides that a
languages that are spoken by more than a million section of citizens having a distinct language, script
people each. or culture have the right to conserve the same.
45
 The Constitution has 22 blue-eyed languages. They Need for Protection of language
are protected in Schedule VIII of the Constitution.  According to the Yuelu Proclamation of
 Under the Constitution, provision is made for the UNESCO
appointment of Special Officer for linguistic  The protection and promotion of linguistic
minority with the sole responsibilities of diversity helps to improve social inclusion and
safeguarding the interest of language spoken by partnerships.
the minority groups.  Helps to reduce the gender and social inequality
 The language policy of India provides a guarantee between different native speakers.
to protect the linguistic minorities.  Guarantee the rights for native speakers of
Need for new languages in 8th schedule endangered, minority, indigenous languages.
 Many languages that are kept out of this favoured  Enhance the social inclusion level and social
position are in some ways more deserving to be decision-making ability by encouraging them to
included in the Eighth Schedule. For participate in a series of actions to promote
exampleSanskrit has only 24,821 speakers (2011 cultural diversity.
Census). Manipuri has only 17, 61,079 speakers
whereas many unscheduled languages have a
sizeable number of speakers Bhili/Bhilodi has 1,
04, 13,637 speakers; Gondi has 29, 84,453
speakers; Garo has 11, 45,323.
 Most of the languages and dialects are restricted to
specific regions and many of them are on the verge
FACT-FINDER
of extinction.
 The language diversity is under threat as speakers
of diverse languages are becoming rare and major
languages are adopted after abandoning the
mother tongues.
 Multilingualism is the way of life in India as people
in different parts of the country speak more than
one language from their birth and learns
additional languages during their lifetime.
Advantages of being in eighth schedule
 Gets recognition from the SahityaAkademi.
 Books are translated into other recognised Indian
languages.
 Members of Parliament and MLAs could speak in
language in Parliament and State Assemblies,
respectively.
 Candidates could write all-India competitive
examinations like the Civil Services exam.
 Placing of all the deserving languages on equal
footing will promote social inclusion and national
solidarity.
 It will reduce the inequalities within the country to
a great extent.
SABARIMALA CASE TO BE EXAMINED FOR

„LARGER ISSUES‟
Context Other larger issues

 A nine-judge Bench led by Chief Justice of India  Prohibition of women from entering mosques and
(CJI) Sharad A. Bobde said its objective was not to temples.
review the Sabarimala women entry case but  Genital mutilation among DawoodiBohras.
examine ―larger issues‖ of law.  Banning of Parsi women who married inter-faith
from entering the fire temple.
46
Observation of bench in accordance with the religious doctrines of each

 It would not go into the legality of issues such as faith.
the practice of polygamy and ‗nikah-halala‘ in  The 1954 judgment held that any regulation could
Islam. only extend to religious practices and activities,
which were economic, commercial or political in
 Basis of the Bench's judicial enquiry would be
their character.
seven questions referred to a larger Bench by a  The numerically stronger nine-judge Bench was
five-judge Bench on November 14, 2019. formed to test the Shrirur Mutt verdict delivered
 Nine-judge Bench was only examining by a seven-judge Bench, which had reduced the
propositions of law raised about religious practices court's role and left the question of essentiality of
believed to be essential to various religions. religious practices to the wisdom of religious texts.
 The Bench would not go into the individual facts of
Questions for larger bench
the various petitions that make the body of the  Whether a court can probe if a practice is essential
case before it. to a religion or should the question be left to the
respective religious head.
Challenges by Senior Lawyers  Should ―essential religious practices‖ be afforded
 Supreme Court cannot decide on the constitutional protection under Article 26
“essentiality of religious practices”. (Freedom to manage religious affairs).
 What is the ―permissible extent‖ of judicial
 They drew the Bench's attention to the Shrirur
Mutt judgment of the Supreme Court of 1954. recognition a court should give to PILs filed by
 According to the 62-year-old verdict, the people who do not belong to the religion of which
essentiality of religious practices should be decided practices are under the scanner.
ANNUAL STATUS OF EDUCATION REPORT 2019

Context
 Only 16% of children in Class 1 in 26 surveyed
rural districts can read text at the prescribed level,
while almost 40% cannot even recognise letters,
according to the Annual Status of Education
Report (ASER) 2019, released by NGO Pratham.
Method of ASER survey

 ASER surveyors visited almost 37,000 children
between 4 and 8 years in 26 rural districts across
24 States.
 They asked each child to do a variety of tasks  Focussing on play-based activities that build
testing cognitive skills — sort images by colour and memory, reasoning and problem-solving abilities
size, recognise patterns, fit together a four-piece are more productive than an early focus on content
animal puzzle. knowledge.
 Social and emotional development was tracked  The quality of early childhood education has a
through activities using cards with faces showing crucial impact on the development and long-term
happiness, sadness, anger and fear. schooling of a child.
 Large number of factors determine the quality of
Findings of the ASER survey
education received at this stage
 The solution is not to spend longer hours teaching
 The child‘s home background, especially the
children the 3R‘s (Reading, Writing and
mother‘s education level;
Arithmetic).
 The type of school, whether anganwadis,
 A focus on cognitive skills rather than subject
government schools or private pre-schools;
learning in the early years can make a big
 The child‘s age in Class 1.
difference to basic literacy and numeracy abilities.
 Permitting underage children into primary grades
 Children‘s performance on tasks requiring
puts them at a learning disadvantage, which is
cognitive skills is strongly related to their ability to
difficult to overcome.
do early language and numeracy tasks.
47
HALLMARKING FOR GOLD JEWELLERY

Context
 Consumer Affairs Minister has announced that no  The BIS is already running a hallmarking scheme
jeweller will be allowed to sell gold jewellery or for gold jewellery since April 2000 and around
artefacts without hallmark from the Bureau of 40% of gold jewellery is being hallmarked
Indian Standards (BIS) from January 15, 2021 currently.
onwards.  Instead of 10 grades earlier, hallmarked gold
jewellery will now be available in three grades of 14
Details carat, 18 carat and 22 carat.
 If jewellery or artefacts made of 14, 18 and 22-carat
gold are sold without a BIS hallmark, then the About BIS
jeweller could face a huge penalty and even  The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the
imprisonment. national Standards Body of India working under
 The penalty may be worth five times the cost of the the aegis of Ministry of Consumer Affairs,
object and the imprisonment up to one year. Food & Public Distribution, and Government
 Jewellers have been given a year‘s time to register of India.
themselves with the BIS.  The Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 1986,
establishes it.
About Gold Hallmarking  The Minister in charge of the Ministry or
 Gold hallmarking is a purity certification of the Department having administrative control of the
precious metal and is voluntary in nature at BIS is the ex-officio President of the BIS.
present.
CAPITAL PUNISHMENT IN INDIA

Context
 A Delhi court issued a fresh death warrant for  It is 60% fewer than the 162 death sentences
Nirbhaya gang rape convict to hang all four passed in 2018.
convicts in Tihar jail at 6 a.m. on February 1.  The proportion of death sentences imposed for
murders involving sexual offences was at a four-
Court observation year high in 2019 at 52.94% (54 out of 102
 Why the other three convicts had not yet appealed sentences).
against the death warrant or exhausted their legal  2019 also saw the highest number of confirmations
remedies. Would it not be delaying tactics? How by High Courts in four years.
far it can be stretched?  The National Law University‘s Death Penalty
 Prison rule If the sentence of death has been Research Project had noted that there are no
passed on more than one person in the same case, reliable numbers of the total number of death row
and if an appeal or an application is made by or on prisoners in India
behalf of only one or more but not all of them the  There is also no official record of the total number
execution of the sentence shall be postponed in the of prisoners executed since Independence.
case of all such persons (prisoner sentenced to
deaths). Supporting Arguments for Death Penalty
 Two convicts have exhausted their option of a  Punishment is not arbitrary because, it comes out
curative petition before the Supreme Court against of a judicial process.
the death sentence, while the other two — Pawan  It is being implemented in the ―rarest of the rare‖
Gupta and Akshay Singh — are yet to approach the cases (last 13 years-only 4 people executed).
apex court.  Criticizing it on arbitrariness, irreversibility and
human rights are not valid arguments.
Death penalty numbers in India
 Trial courts in India delivered 102 death sentences
in 2019.
48
 Its constitutionality is upheld, even in liberal

democracies like U.S. It is not reflection of
uncivilised society.
 India has troubled borders and its relations with
neighbouring countries are not peaceful; unlike
Scandinavia (is a region in northern Europe). Also,
India does not belong to any group of countries,
like European Union.
Countering Arguments to abolish Death

Penalty
 It unfairly targets poor and marginalised, that
means, those without money & power.
 Executions occurred in 5.2 cases for every 1-lakh
murders, which it very irrational.
 Punishment should not imitate crime.
 Most of the civilised world abolished it. Death Machii Singh Case
penalty has not deterred terrorism, murder or even  It laid down the broad outlines of the
theft. circumstances when death sentence should be
 From 2000 to 2015, SC imposed 60 death imposed.
sentences. It subsequently admitted that it had o Manner– When the murder is committed in
erred in 15 of them (25%). an extremely brutal manner so as to arouse
 The Police are lacking probity or efficiency in our intense and extreme indignation in the
country. community.
 No study has shown that the death penalty deters o Motive – When the murder is committed for
murder more than life imprisonment. a motive, which evinces depravity and
meanness e.g. a hired assassin, a cold-blooded
Supreme Court judgement on Death Penalty murder to inherit property, or gain control
 Every death penalty case before the court deals over property of a ward.
with a human life that enjoys certain constitutional o Anti-social or socially abhorrent nature of
protection. the crime – Where a scheduled caste or
 If life is to be taken away, then the process must minority community person is murdered in
adhere to the strictest and highest constitutional circumstances, which arouse social wrath; or
standards. bride burning for dowry, or for remarriage.
 Five-judge constitution bench in Bachan Singh o Magnitude of the Crime – Crimes of
versus State of Punjab in 1980, had already enormous proportion, like multiple murders of
held the constitutional validity of death penalty a family or persons of a particular caste,
provided in Indian Penal Code. community or locality.
 The society's perspective is generally formed by the
Conclusion
emotionally charged narratives. Such narratives
 Since 1991, India‘s murder rate has declined
need not necessarily be legally correct, properly
continuously and is at present the lowest in our
informed or procedurally proper.
recorded history except for 1963.
 The court plays a counter-majoritarian role in
 Studies haveshown that equal sex ratio has more to
protecting individual rights against majoritarian
do with declining murder rates than killing
impulses.
murderers.
Rajendra Prasad case  In Law commission of India‘s 35th Report
 The special reason should be recorded for correctly called for its retention in order to see its
imposing death penalty in a case. impact on a new republic, the more recent 262nd
 The death penalty must be imposed only in Report has not recommended the absolute
extraordinary circumstances. abolition of capital punishment.
 Violent terror cases are constant reminders of the
Bachchan Singh Case need to protect national stability by ensuring
 Death penalty, as an alternative punishment for appropriate responses to such actions, and the
murder is not unreasonable and hence not death penalty forms part of the national response.
violative of Articles 14, 19 and 21 of the  The fundamental right to life and dignity
Constitution of India. enshrined under Article 21 of the Constitution also
 It also enunciated the principle of awarding death means the right to die with dignity
penalty only in the ‗rarest of rare cases‘.
49
SEXUAL HARASSMENT AT WORKPLACE

 Recommendations of the Group of Ministers  The definition of "aggrieved woman", who will get
(GoM) to strengthen the legal framework to protection under the Act is extremely wide to cover
prevent sexual harassment at the workplace: all women, irrespective of her age or employment
 Addition of new provisions to the Indian Penal status, whether in the organised or unorganised
Code. sectors, public or private and covers clients,
 Proposed amendments would be largely based customers and domestic workers as well.
on the Vishaka Guidelines laid down by the  An employer has been defined as any person who
Supreme Court in 1997. is responsible for management, supervision, and
 The Verma committee had recommended an control of the workplace and includes persons who
employment tribunal, instead of an Internal formulate and administer policies of such an
Complaint Committee , as dealing with such organisation under Section 2(g).
complaints in-house could discourage women  The Committee is required to complete the inquiry
from coming out. within a time period of 90 days. On completion of
the inquiry, the report will be sent to the employer
Background of the Panel or the District Officer, as the case may be, they are
 The Panel was set up in the aftermath of the mandated to take action on the report within 60
#MeToo movement after many women shared days.
their ordeal on social media.  Every employer is required to constitute an
 It also examined the report of the Justice J.S. Internal Complaints Committee at each office or
Verma Committee that was constituted in the wake branch with 10 or more employees.
of the Nirbhaya gang rape and murder in 2012.  The District Officer is required to constitute a
Local Complaints Committee at each district, and
Shortcomings of the act if required at the block level.
 Giving the powers of a civil court to the internal  The Complaints Committees have the powers of
complaints committee (ICC) without specifying if civil courts for gathering evidence.
the members need to have a legal background.  The Complaints Committees are required to
 It only imposed a fine of ₹50,000 on employers provide for conciliation before initiating an
for non-compliance. inquiry, if requested by the complainant.
 The act said the employer should provide
assistance to the woman if she chooses to file a Criticism of the act
complaint under the IPC ―against the perpetrator  Bill does not protect men, saying it "is based on the
after the conclusion of the enquiry‖. premise that only female employees needed to be
safeguarded.
Sexual harassment at work place Act  They called out the fact that there is no stipulated
 Number of sexual harassment incidents at ―work liability for employers in cases of employee-to-
or office premises‖ registered under Section 509 employee harassment, something upheld in many
IPC (words, gesture or act to insult the modesty of other countries.
a woman) was 479 and 401 in the years 2017 and  Many critics perceive that timely manner grievance
2018 respectively. redressal by the employers is problematic because
 It seeks to protect women from sexual harassment of potentially uncooperative employees.
at their place of work.  The law requires a third-party non-governmental
 The Act defines sexual harassment at the work organisation to be involved, which could make
place and creates a mechanism for redressal of employers less comfortable in reporting
complaints. It also provides safeguards against grievances, due to confidentiality concerns.
false or malicious charges.  Compliance to this statute has so far been left to
 The Act also covers concepts of 'quid pro quo the vagaries of the employers and government has
harassment' and 'hostile work environment' as not taken any significant step to enforce the law so
forms of sexual harassment if it occurs in far.
connection with an act or behaviour of sexual
harassment.
50
LEARNING FROM BRAZILIAN HEALTH SYSTEM

Context  Every year, the SUS covers more than two million
 As Brazilian President JairBolsonaro visits New births, 10 million hospital admissions and nearly
Delhi this Republic Day, one interesting field of one billion ambulatory procedures.
cooperation to explore in the strategic partnership  Brazil spends only 3.8% of its GDP on the SUS,
is healthcare. serving a population three times larger than that of
the U.K, while UK spends 8% of its GDP on NHS.
Brazilian system
 The Brazilian society achieved universal coverage Community based healthcare ensures
by establishing a government-funded system.  Health promotion and prevention activities
 More than 100 million inhabitants have a  Oversee whether family members are complying
universal health system. with any treatment they might be receiving
 The Family Health Programme (Programa Saúde  Effectively manage the relationship between
da Família), which relies on a community-based citizens and the healthcare system.
healthcare network, is the backbone of the rapid  Help to drastically reduced IMR and increases
expansion of coverage in Brazil. adult labour supply.
 The Unified Health System (SUS), which  Accessibility of services to the rural areas and
guaranteed free health coverage that included poorest states of the country.
pharmaceutical services, has been written into the
new Constitution in 1988.
Learning for Indian Health system
Achievement of Brazilian system  Public health expenditure is still very low in India,
 Life expectancy has increased from 64 years to at around 1.3% of GDP in the 2017-2018 fiscal
almost 76 years, while Infant Mortality Rate has years. It needs to be enhanced.
declined from 53 to 14 per 1,000 live births.  One-size-fits-all approach for such heterogeneous
 Polio vaccination has reached 98% of the regional realities is inconceivable; hence, region
population. specific approach needs to be imagined.
 95% of those that seek care in the SUS are able to  Regional disparities in terms of resources and
receive treatment. institutional capabilities must be addressed.
NEAT INITIATIVE
 EdTech companies would be responsible for
National Educational Alliance for Technology developing solutions and manage registration of
(NEAT) programme learners through the NEAT portal.
 It aims for using technology for better learning  They would be free to charge fees as per their
outcomes in Higher Education. policy.
 The objective is to use Artificial Intelligence to  As their contribution towards the National cause,
make learning more personalised and customised they would have to offer free coupons to the extent
as per the requirements of the learner. of 25% of the total registrations for their solution
through NEAT portal.
 There are a number of start-up companies
 MHRD would distribute the free coupons for
developing this and Ministry of Human Resource
learning to the most socially/economically
Development would like to recognise such efforts
backward students.
and bring them under a common platform so that
 All India Council of Technical Education would be
learners can access it easily. the implementing agency for NEAT programme.
 MHRD would act as a facilitator to ensure that the  Independent Expert Committees would be
solutions are freely available to a large number of constituted for evaluating and selecting the
economically backward students. EdTech solutions.
51
OBC SUB-CATEGORISATION
Context
 Cabinet approved a six-month extension in the Need for the commission
tenure of the commission to examine sub-  Certain communities from OBC sections have
categorisation of Other Backward Classes (OBC). received more benefits compared to the other
communities.
Cabinet decisions  Perpetuity of reservation where certain
 Approved an addition to the commission‘s terms of community keeps on reaping the benefits thus
reference. increasing the inequality within the OBC section. It
 Study the various entries in the Central list of would ensure that reservation benefits are passed
OBCs and recommend correction of any on to deprived caste only.
repetitions, ambiguities, inconsistencies and errors  However, IndraShahney judgement of the
of spelling or transcription. Supreme Court had brought concept of creamy
layer to exclude affluent class from ambit of
About the commission the reservation, but there is not provision to
 It will look into the existing list of OBCs and exclude the whole caste even if it has come out of
categorise the castes that have not benefited from the social and economic backwardness.
reservation in government jobs and education.  This commission will provide the parameters for
 It is also expected to give its recommendations to assessing the social and economic backwardness
ensure that these marginalised communities get which will be helpful in evaluating the
the benefits of various schemes. performance of reservation policy.
 The commission is headed by the G. Rohini,  Populist policies pursued by the different states
former Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court. have increased the number of OBC caste thus
necessitating an activity to filter out the developed
Constitutionality for the OBC reservation caste.
 While the term ‗OBC‘ is not mentioned in the  Since Indra Shahney judgement capped the
Constitution, Article 15 allows the State to make limit for reservation at 49%, achieving the
special provisions for the advancement of any objective of social justice requires dynamism in the
socially and educationally backward classes categorisation of caste.
(SEBC) of citizens.  Nine States of the country viz., Andhra Pradesh,
 Article 340 allows the President of India to appoint Telangana, Puducherry, Karnataka, Haryana,
a commission to investigate into the issues related Jharkhand, West Bengal, Bihar, Maharashtra and
to OBC. Tamil Nadu have already carried out sub-
 National commission on backward communities categorization of Other Backward Classes. Hence,
has already been given the constitutional status. there is a need for sub-categorisation at national
level too.
REVAMPING ICDS SCHEME

Context
 Urban areas are likely to receive a renewed focus population density, transportation challenges and
under the government‘s ICDS programme, which migration.
provides for anganwadis or day-care centres across  Because of these issues it may not be possible for a
the country for delivery of nutrition and pre-school community worker to keep in contact with the
education. beneficiaries, which she is able to achieve in rural
settings.
Approved Paper by NitiAyog  According to government data from 2018, of the 14
 Health and ICDS models that work in rural areas lakh anganwadis across the country there are only
may not work in urban areas because of higher 1.38 lakh anganwadis in urban areas.
52
Urban Challenge Scheme was launched with the objectives

 Malnutrition among children in urban India is  To improve the nutritional and health status of
characterized by relatively poor levels of children in the age-group 0-6 years;
breastfeeding, as mothers have to travel long  To lay the foundation for proper psychological,
distances for work. physical and social development of the child;
 Children in rural parts on the other hand suffered  To reduce the incidence of mortality, morbidity,
from higher levels of stunting, were more malnutrition and school dropout;
underweight and wasting and the lower  To achieve effective co-ordination of policy and
consumption of milk products were more implementation amongst the various departments
prevalent. to promote child development;
 Children in urban areas were overweight and obese  To enhance the capability of the mother to look
as indicated by subscapular skinfold thickness after the normal health and nutritional needs of
(SSFT) for their age. the child through proper nutrition and health
education.
Some Key Suggestions  In order to achieve these objectives, a package of
 Improving infrastructure in urban areas would be six services namely
key as the government embarks on improving  Supplementary nutrition (SNP),
service delivery under the ICDS programme.  Immunization,
 Other crucial steps for anganwadi services in  Health check-up,
urban areas include strengthening safety and  Referral services,
infrastructure.  Pre-school non-formal education
 AWC provides to the community as a safe place  Nutrition& health education are provided.
where kids can be left and services availed.
About ICDS scheme

 It is a centrally sponsored Scheme
implemented by States/UTs across the country.
 The responsibility for implementation of ICDS
Programme including computerization if any and
providing supplementary nutrition under it has
and management thereof rests with States/UTs.
FACT-FINDER
53
2
ISRAEL AND PALESTINE CONFLICT

GS-II INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
Context
 Palestine canceled the Oslo Accords signed  Jerusalem, the most contentious issue, would
with Israel. be ―the undivided capital‖ of Israel, with
 The West Asia peace plan unveiled by U.S. Palestine gaining its capital in the east of the
President Donald Trump to resolve the Israel- city.
Palestine conflict.  Palestinian Authority should also crackdown
on ―terrorist‖ groups such as Hamas and the
What is the Israel-Palestine conflict? Islamic Jihad.
 Israel is the world‘s only Jewish state, located
 Mr. Trump has also proposed $50 billion in
just east of the Mediterranean Sea.
investment over 10 years, if Palestine accepts
 Palestinians, the Arab population that hails the proposals.
from the land Israel, controls and refers it as
 Palestine would get control over more land
Palestine, thus want to establish a state by that
than what it is currently controlling. The plan
name on all or part of the same land.
also proposes to enlarge Gaza and connect the
 The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is over the land strip with the West Bank through a tunnel. The
control. Arab towns in the southeast of Israel, which
are close to Gaza, could become part of a
The West Asia peace plan:
future Palestinian state.
 It seeks to address some contentious issues
such as the border of Israel, the status of
Why it is not feasible?
Palestinian refugees, Jewish settlements on  The Palestine position is that independent,
the West Bank, Israel‘s security concerns and sovereign Palestinian state should
the status of the city of Jerusalem. includeswhole of the West Bank and the Gaza
 Israel will be allowed to annex the Jewish Strip. Hence, it out rightly opposed the plan.
settlements on the West Bank as well as the  It is biased towards Israel.
Jordan Valley.
 There is a conflict between the governing
 The Palestinian refugees, who were forced out authorities of theGaza strip and West Bank,
from their homes during the 1948 Arab-Israeli the proposal of connecting them may not take
war that followed the declaration of the state off.
of Israel in historic Palestine, would not be
allowed to return.
The Palestine Liberation Organization

The Palestine Liberation Organization is an
organization founded in 1964 with the purpose
of the "liberation of Palestine" through armed
struggle.
It is recognized as the "sole legitimate
representative of the Palestinian people" by over
100 states with which it holds diplomatic
relations and has enjoyed observer status at
the United Nations since 1974.
Hamas
Hamas is a Palestinian Islamist political
organization and militant group that has waged
war on Israel since 1987.
54
What is the Oslo accord? people.

 The Oslo Accords are a set of agreements between  India recognized Palestine's statehood
the Government of Israel and the Palestine following declaration on 18 November 1988. India
Liberation Organization. was the first non-Arab country to
 It created a Palestinian Authority tasked with contemporaneously recognize the Palestine
limited self-governance of parts of the West Liberation Organization.
Bank and Gaza Strip.  In 2014, India favored UNHRC‘s resolution to
 PLO agreed to formally recognize the state probe Israel‘s human rights violations in Gaza.
of Israel.  Prime Minister Narendra Modi, became the first
 It also acknowledged the PLO as Israel's partner in Prime Minister of India to visit Palestine in 2018.
permanent-status negotiations about remaining  Despite recent close relations with Israel, India
questions. strongly supports Palestine on the humanitarian as
 However, the Oslo Accords have yet to result well as ethical grounds. India wants peaceful
in any lasting peace—and their overall impact resolution of conflict.
remains up for debate.
Way forward
World‟s stand on the conflict  The creation of two states is the best possible
 Most of the Non-Muslim countries recognize solution to the conflict. It has been on hold
Israel‘s legitimacy and maintain diplomatic because of the hardstand of both parties on some
relations with it, but most are critical of Israel‘s of the critical areas.
treatment of the Palestinians.  The problem can only be solved when both parties
 Israel had been condemned in more than 45 show intent for resolution by negotiations.
resolutions by the United Nations Human Rights  The rest of the World including India should create
Council. an enabling platform for such negotiation for both
 Eighty-three percent of the world‘s countries, and the parties to conclude on one of the oldest
almost every country that isn‘t Arab or Muslim unresolved conflicts.
majority, recognizes Israel.
 138 of the 193 United Nations (UN) member states
have recognized Palestine. Furthermore, Palestine
has been a non-member observer state of the UN
since November 2012.
India‟s Stand on this issue

 India has traditionally supported statehood for the
Palestinian side and maintained that the ―two-
state solution” is the best way to resolve the
issue.
o Two-state solution, is a proposed framework for
resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict by
establishing two states for two peoples: Israel for
the Jewish people and Palestine for the Palestinian
Geographical locations
Golan Heights is the area captured from Syria and
occupied by Israel during the 1967 Six-Day War,
territory that has been administered as part of Israel
since 1981.
West Bank is a landlocked territory bordered
by Jordan to the east and Israel on the south, west
and north. The Oslo Accords, signed between
the Palestine Liberation Organization and Israel,
created administrative districts with varying levels of
Palestinian autonomy within each area.
Gaza strip is a self-governing Palestinian territory on
the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea, which
borders Egypt and Israel.
Jerusalem is a city in the Middle East. It is one of
the oldest cities in the world, and is
considered holy to the three major Abrahamic
religions—Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
Both Israel and the Palestinian Authority claim
Jerusalem as their capital.
55
INDIA- BRAZIL RELATIONS

Context
 Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro‘s presence as Political relations
chief guest for this year‘s Republic Day  Both Brazil and India are front runners of South-
parade.India and Brazil signed 15 agreements. South cooperation and opposition to Western-
dominated world order.
 Innovative coalitions like IBSA and BRICS were
Agreements signed cofounded by India and Brazil to balance the world
 Two countries signed investment cooperation and order.
facilitation treaty that provides a framework to
 Both countries want the participation of
increase trade and investment in high growth
developing countries in the UNSC permanent
areas. The two sides agreed to set a target of $15
membership. Both countries are part of the G-4
billion in bilateral trade by 2022.
grouping.
 A separate pact was signed for boosting
cooperation in the energy sector oil and natural Economic relations
gas.  Brazil is one of the most important trading
 Other agreements exchanged are cultural exchange partners of India in the entire LAC (Latin America
program; women and child development; field of and the Caribbean) region.
health and medicine; early childhood; traditional  Bilateral trade in 2018-19 was $8.2 billion, which
systems of medicine and homeopathy; social included $3.8 billion worth of Indian exports to
security; scientific and technological cooperation; Brazil and $4.4 million as imports by India.
geology and mineral resources; animal husbandry  Major Indian exports to Brazil include
and dairying. agrochemicals, synthetic yarns, auto components,
and parts, pharmaceutical and petroleum
India Brazil relations products.
Historic relations  Brazilian exports to India include crude oil, gold,
 Diplomatic relations between India and Brazil vegetable oil, sugar, and the bulk mineral and ores.
were established in 1948.  Indian investments in Brazil were around $6
 One of the major sources of tension between the billion and Brazilian investments in India US-
two nations was the decolonization process of the China at $1 billion in 2018.
Portuguese enclaves in India. Where Brazil
supported Portugal. Challenges
 Changes in ideology:Brazilian President agreed
 Brazil and India formally declared each other
to abandon Brazil‘s designation as a ‗developing
‗strategic partners‘ way back in 2006.
country‘ and to get Brazil admitted into the club of
Cultural relations rich countries – the Organization for Economic
 In Brazil, there is enormous interest in India‘s Cooperation and Development (OECD). This may
culture, religion, performing arts and philosophy. lead to ideological differences between the
countries on global platforms.
 Brazil has a strong community of Yoga and
Ayurveda practitioners.  Presence of China: Brazil already counts China
 Mahatma Gandhi is highly regarded in Brazil. as its number one trade partner.India may find it
Government and NGOs of Brazil are trying to challenging to compete with China in the country.
inculcate the philosophy of non-violence among  Brazil‘s complaint at the World Trade Organization
students, youth and police. against New Delhi‘s subsidies to sugarcane
farmers. Brazil is the largest producer and exporter
Defense relation of sugar and claims Indian subsidies are
 Brazil and India signed an agreement in 2003 for inconsistent with global trade rules.
defense cooperation, which calls for cooperation in
defense-related matters, especially in the field of Opportunities
Research and Development, acquisition and  Energy security: With the humanitarian crisis
logistic support between the 2 countries. gripping in neighboring Venezuela, Brazil is well
56
placed to be an alternative hydrocarbon source for

India‘s energy security. G-4
 Collaboration between the Indian and Brazilian The G4 nations comprising Brazil, Germany,
firms to produce and export renewable fuels like India and Japan.
ethanol. These four countries support each other‘s bids for
 Brazil already counts China as its number one
permanent seats on the United Nations Security
Council.
trade partner, so much so that Bolsonaro has
G4's bids are often opposed by the Uniting for
expressed legitimate fears that China is ―buying
Consensus(UfC) movement, and particularly
Brazil‖. India is a latecomer to Latin America, but
their economic competitors or political rivals.
like in other parts of the developing world, it is
seen as a softer benign power for reducing over-
dependence on China.
BRICS
BRICS is the acronym coined for an association of five
major emerging national economies: Brazil, Russia, IBSA
India, China and South Africa. Forum of countries India, Brazil and South
Formed in 2009. Africa.
BRICS brings together five major emerging It is an international tripartite grouping for
economies, comprising 43% of the world population, promoting international cooperation among
having 30% of the world GDP and 17% share in the these countries.
world trade.
57
HENLEY PASSPORT INDEX

Context  Singapore, in second place (same as in 2019),

 The Indian passport ranked 84th in the world, has a visa-free/visa-on-arrival score of 190.
according to the latest edition of the Henley  Germany and South Korea are at No. 3 with
Passport Index. access to 189 destinations.
About the index India‟s performance

 The index lists the world‘s passports  The Indian passport‘s 2020 ranking of 84th
―according to the number of destinations their translates into visa-free access to 58
holders can access without a prior visa‖. destinations, including 33 which give Indians
 The ranking is based on data from the visas on arrival.
International Air Transport Association  Twenty of the 58 visa-free access destinations
(IATA). in the 2020 list are in Africa and 11 each in
 The index includes 199 different passports and Asia and the Caribbean.
227 different travel destinations.  Serbia is the only European country to which
Indian passport holders can travel visa-free.
About the rankings
 There is no major or developed country to
 Japan has been topping the Index for three
which Indian passport holders have visa-free
straight years. Its citizens are able to access
access.
191 destinations without having to obtain a
visa in advance.
ROHINGYA CRISIS
Genocide Convention
Context It is a UN convention entered into force in
 The International Court of Justice (ICJ) 1951.
ruled that Myanmar must take effective measures All participating countries are advised to
to protect its Rohingya Muslims. prevent and punish actions of genocide in
war and in peacetime.
What is the case against Myanmar?
The United Nations Security Council is the
 The Republic of the Gambia moved the ICJ against
organization entitled to mandate
Myanmar over alleged violations of the the International Criminal
Convention on the Prevention and Court with investigations relating to
Punishment of the Crime of Genocide. breaches of the genocide convention.
 The Gambia urged the ICJ to direct Myanmar to
stop the genocide, ensure that persons committing
genocide are punished and allow the ―safe and
dignified return of forcibly displaced Rohingya
Analysis
 The order of the court is provisional. It does not
translate into a finding against Myanmar. The final
verdict of the court may take many years.
 However, the ruling is not against Myanmar, but it
dents its image internationally. It also brings
international pressure on Myanmar to act against
the Rohingya crisis.
58
 India refused to let the refugees enter in India. As

The Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees
it posed a national security threat. Indian security
It is also known as the 1951 Refugee Convention or
the Geneva Convention. establishments opinioned that some
It is a United Nations multilateral treaty that Rohingyassympathizing with many militant
defines who a refugee is, and sets out the rights of groups‘ ideologies may be active in Jammu, Delhi,
individuals who are granted asylum and the Hyderabad, and Mewat and can be a potential
responsibilities of nations that grant asylum. threat to internal security.
India is not part of the convention.
 Government has decided to deport back the
Rohingyas entering the Indian Territory.
 As per Article 94 of the Charter of the United  The 1951 Refugee Convention of the UN binds the
Nations, all member states are required to comply countries to give shelter for refugees. India argues
with the decisions of the ICJ. Security Council has that India is not part of the convention.
the power to impose sanctions against it and  However, it was found that around 40,000
ensure compliance of the judgment. Rohingya's illegal immigrants have taken shelter
in Assam, West Bengal, and Jammu & Kashmir.
Who are Rohingyas?  India initiated the operation named Insaniyat, to
 The Rohingya people are Indo-Aryan ethnic extend the assistance to Bangladesh in a response
group, who predominantly follow Islam and reside of the large influx of refugees into Bangladesh.
in Rakhine State, Myanmar (previously known as
Burma). Criticism against the stand of India
 There were an estimated 1 million Rohingya living  However, India is not a party to the Geneva
in Myanmar before the 2016–17 crisis. Convention, but it should give asylum
 They have their own language and culture and are considering humanitarian situation.
descendants of Arab traders and other groups, who  India is home to a number of refugees from its
have been in the region for generations. neighboring countries. Refusing Rohingyas is not
inline with the ethos that India exhibited towards
What is the Rohingya crisis? refugees in the past.
 The Government of Myanmar denied the  This action of India is against the ethos of the
citizenship rights to Rohingya and excluded them Indian constitution as well. As, Article 51 of the
from the 2014 census. It makes them an illegal Constitution imposes an obligation on the state to
immigrants from Bangladesh. endeavor to promote international peace and
 Violence broke out when Rohingya Arsa militants security.
launched a deadly attacks on more than 30 police  Despite not having sufficient resources,
posts. neighboring Bangladesh responded to the crisis. It
 Troops, backed by local Buddhist mobs launched a is a shame for India to not responding during such
―clearance operation‖ leading to the Rohingya a crisis.
crisis. It was said that more than 3 lakh Rohingyas  India is enacting the new citizenship act to support
fled to neighboring countries seeking asylum. the religious minorities being persecuted in the
immediateneighborhood. Rohingyas are also one
What is India‟s stand about the crisis? such minority. However, the act is silent on them.
 India took a neutral stand on the crisis and not
opposing the human rights violations in Myanmar. Way forward
 The ruling of the court is a welcome move. It at
International Court of Justice least recognized the human rights issues being
The International Court of Justice (ICJ),
faced by the Rohingyas in Myanmar if not resolved
sometimes called the World Court, is the
principal judicial organ of the United it.
Nations (UN).  It is very important to note that more than 5 lakh
The ICJ settles disputes between states and Rohingyas still lives in Myanmar. First and
gives advisory opinions on international legal foremost need is to pressurize Myanmar to not to
issues referred to it by the UN. conduct any actions against those who are still
The ICJ comprises a panel of 15 judges
residing in Myanmar. International organizations
elected by the General Assembly and Security
Council for nine-year terms. including India should act in this direction.
It is located at The Hague, Netherlands,  Rohingyas who are fled from Myanmar, should be
making it the only principal U.N. organ not given proper living conditions in asylum camps.
located in New York City. Possibilities of resettling them back in Myanmar
59
need to be checked. International communities Rohingyas in their respective land onhumanitarian

should provide necessary assistance for the same. basis.
 Neighboring countries including India should step
forward to create living conditions to the
SAGARMATHA DIALOGUE
Context
 Nepal has invited the Prime Ministers of India and is meant to promote the notions of the
and Pakistan along with several other heads of common good and collective well-being of
government and heads of state for the Sagarmatha humanity.
Dialogue.  The first episode of the Sambaad is scheduled to be
held from 2 to 4 April 2020.
About the Dialogue  The theme of the first Sambaad is "Climate
 It is a multi-stakeholder, permanent global
Change, Mountains and the Future of Humanity."
dialogue forum initiated by the Government of
 Sagarmatha Sambaad will also highlight Nepal‘s
Nepal.
ability to assert its point of view before the global
 It is scheduled to be held biennially in Nepal.
audience and also to build the event as a global
 The Sambaad (dialogue) is named after the world's and regional diplomatic venue.
tallest mountain Sagarmatha (Mount Everest),
which is also a symbol of friendship
INDIA - MALAYSIA RELATIONS

Context
 Malaysia's PM defends criticism of India despite Political Relations
palm oil backlash  India established diplomatic relations with the
Federation of Malaysia in 1957 immediately on
Cultural Relations
Malaysia‘s independence.
 India and Malaysia signed MoU on cooperation in
 In October 2010, a Strategic Partnership was
the field of Traditional Medicine in October 2010.
established, thus placing India – Malaysia ties at a
 Malaysia has one of the largest communities of
higher level than at any time since the 1960s.
Persons of Indian Origin in the world,
 Agreement on Cultural Exchange Programme for
numbering around2.7 million (about 9-10% of
2015-2020 and two Memorandum of
Malaysia‘s population).
Understanding (MoU) on Cooperation in the area
Economic Relations of Performance Management,Project Delivery and
 Malaysia is our third-largest trading partner in Monitoring related to Government Programs&
ASEANbesides Indonesia and Singapore. India is Delivery and on Cooperation in Cyber Security
the largest trading partner for Malaysia from were signed between the countries.
among the countries of South Asia, excluding
Singapore and China. Defense relations
 Defense relations between India and Malaysia
 Bilateral Comprehensive
have grown steadily. MoU on Defense Cooperation
EconomicCooperation Agreement (CECA)
was signed in 1993 to improve the Defense
covering goods, services, and investment has come
relations between the two countries.
into effect from 1 July 2011.
 The Indian Navy ships regularly port in Malaysia,
 India is the sixth-largest source country for
which provides the opportunity to both navies to
inbound tourism to Malaysia.
60
 The Indian Islamic tele-evangelist Zakir Naik was

given asylum in Malaysia in 2018 despite
objections from Indian government.
 As retaliation against Malaysia‘s Prime Minister,
curbing oil imports has been under discussion.
Palm oil import has been virtually banned.
Analysis
 Singapore and Malaysia have always been at the
core of India's interests in its 'Act East' policy, and
its attempts to fortify the Association of Southeast
Asian Nations (ASEAN) coalition. Strained
interact, understand each other,and foster bonds
relations pose a negative impact against the Act
of lasting friendship.
East Policy of India.
 Following the disappearance of Malaysian Airlines
 Trade and anti-terror platforms brought the two
flight MH-370 from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing on
countries together. But the current
March 8, 2014, India extended all necessary
Malaysiangovernment‘s stand on terrorism is
assistance to the Malaysian authorities and
worrying.
deployed six ships and five aircraft to undertake
 The virtual import ban on palm oil will hurt both
the search operations in Bay of Bengal region.
India and Malaysia. Malaysia losing its biggest
 Treaty on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal
market leading to price crash. On the other hand,
Matters signed (March 2012) and ratified on 12
India may face food inflation.
November 2012.
 India‘s act of trade ban against the ideological
differences between the countries may portray a
Issues with relationship
 The new Mahathir Mohamad-led government has negative image of India against the rest of the
been implementing an assertive foreign policy world. Ideally, India should resolve the issue with
against many of the countries. This resulted in dialogue.
strained relationships with many countries along
Way forward
with India.
 Both India and Malaysia are very good friends for
 Recently, Malesian government criticized India‘s
more than 60 years. Current situation is a small
internal matters like the Citizenship Amendment
dent in theirlong-lasting relationship.
Act, Kashmir Issue, etc. India opposed the same
 Differences between the countries need to be
stating that it went against the accepted diplomatic
addressed through diplomatic channels for the
practice of ―Non-interference in each other‘s
benefits of both countries.
internal affairs‖.
INDIA- EU RELATIONS
Context
 European Parliament (EPs) has moved Political relations
resolutions criticizing the Citizenship  India-EU bilateral relations date back to the early
Amendment Act. 1960s with India being amongst the first countries
to establish diplomatic relations with the European
Economic Community in 1962.
Trade relations  A Cooperation Agreement signed in 1994 took the
 The EU is India‘s largest regional trading partner. bilateral relationship beyond trade and economic
 India‘s exports to the EU valued at $54.0 billion, cooperation. It opened the way for annual
whereas India‘s imports valued at 53.9 billion. ministerial meetings and a broad political
 The EU continued to be the largest source of dialogue.
Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) for India with  The first India-EU Summit took place on 28 June
investment inflows of approximately 25% of the 2000 in Lisbon and marked a watershed in the
total FDI from 2000. evolution of the relationship.
61
 The relationship was upgraded to a ‗Strategic Areas of concern

Partnership‘ during the 5th India-EU Summit held  Ideologicaldivergence: Majority of the EU counties
in 2004 in The Hague. are developed countries. Whereas, India being a
developing country have significant ideological
Areas of cooperation differences in international platforms.
 India-EU is complementing each other‘s  In order to diversify and boost our bilateral trade,
economies as both carry a balanced trade. India and the EU are negotiating a bilateral
 Both India and the EU are facing frequent terror Broad-based Trade and Investment
attacks. Both have taken a strong stand against Agreement (BTIA) since 2007. However, both
terrorism. countries couldn‘t reach out tothe conclusion. EU
 Both countries support ―Democracy‖ idealogy. The thinks that India is not open to trade whereas
ideology of both towards human rights is in the India thinks that the EU is not giving sufficient
same line. access to services and goods of India.
 Both can show good co-operation in the field of  Brexit has created additional uncertainty in trade
environment protection. Despite the US negotiations.
withdrawal to Paris agreement, India and the EU  EU is concerned about India‘s internal affairs like
are showing a strong commitment to the Kashmir issue, CAA creating additional areas of
agreement. concern.
European Union:
European Union (EU) is an
international organization
comprising European countries
and governing common economic,
social, and security policies.
The EU was created by the

Maastricht Treaty, which was
designed to enhance European
political and economic integration
by creating a single currency (the
euro), a unified foreign and
security policy, and common
citizenship rights and by
advancing cooperation in the areas
of immigration, asylum, and
judicial affairs.
62
INDIA- FRANCE RELATIONS

Context Defense relations

 India, France to partner to develop museums,  Major on-going Defense-related projects are
culture spacesin and organize exhibitions and  Rafale aircraft: The Inter-governmental agreement
festivals. for the purchase of 36 Rafale jets by India in
flyaway condition was signed.
Political relations  P-75 Scorpene Project: The contract for six
 In 1998, the two countries entered into the Scorpene submarines on a technology transfer
―Strategic Partnership”. The areas of Defense basis.
cooperation, space cooperation, and civil
nuclear cooperation constitute the three Space relations
principal pillars of our Strategic Partnership.  India and France have a rich history of cooperation
 India and France support a multi-polar world in the field of space.
order. France has continued to support India‘s  Building on the historical linkages in the arena of
claim for permanent membership of the Security civilian space, both India and France issued a
Council and the reforms of the United Nations. ―Joint Vision for Space Cooperation‖
 France has provided consistent support to India‘s  ISRO and CNES will realize their third joint
candidature for the membership of all the four satellite mission – TRISHNAthat is meant for
Multilateral Export Control regimes, viz. Nuclear eco-system stress and water use monitoring.
Suppliers Group (NSG), the Missile Technology
Control Regime (MTCR), the Wassenaar Civil Nuclear Cooperation
Arrangement (WA) and the Australia Group (AG).  A landmark agreement on civil nuclear
 India and France have consistently condemned cooperation was signed between India and France
terrorism and have resolved to work together for on 30 September 2008
the adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on  Both countries signed a revised MoU for the
International Terrorism (CCIT) in the UN. construction of six European Pressurized Reactor
(EPR) units at Jaitapur.
Economic relations
 France is the ninth-largest foreign investor in Cultural Cooperation
India.  Indian culture enjoys wide admiration among the
 Trade between the countries is around $11 billion. people of France. An Indian Cultural Centre is
There is a huge scope of improvement in the proposed to be opened in Paris.
future.  France and India agreed to formalize partnerships
to develop museums, cultural spaces and to
collaborate in the field of exhibition, research and
festivals.
63
INDIA- UAE RELATIONS

Context  Both countries have a highly balanced trade. For

 Ministry of Law and Justice issued an instance, in the year 2018-19, India's exports to
Extraordinary Gazette Notification, declaring the the UAE were US$30.13 billion whereas UAE's
United Arab Emirates to be a “reciprocating exports to India were US$29.78 billion.
territory‖ under Section 44A of the Civil  UAE is also crucial for FDI in India. Prominent
Procedure Code. UAE companies such as DP World, EMAAR,
 The notification also declared a list of courts in the RAKIA, etc. have invested significantly in various
UAE to be ―superior Courts‖ under the same sectors of the Indian economy
section.
Cultural relations
What is „reciprocating territory‟?  The two nations share historical ties and have
 Under Section 44 of the CPC “Reciprocating maintained regular cultural exchanges both at
territory‖ means any country or territory outside official and people to people levels. India and UAE
India, which the Central Government may by signed a Cultural Agreement in 1975.
notification in the Official Gazette, declare to be a  India was the 'Guest of Honour' country at the
reciprocating territory. UAE's prestigious month long annual cultural
festival in March 2018
Why is the move significant?
 Indian expatriates in the UAE would no longer be Indian Community
able to seek safe haven in their home country if  Data from the International Organization of
they are convicted in a civil case in the UAE. Migration showed that the Indian population in
UAE is one of the largest concentrations of Indian
 The present notification would give much-desired
nationals outside India.
impetus to enforce civil judgments passed by the
notified courts in UAE. This is a welcome change  Professionally qualified personnel constitute about
and could further strengthen the economic ties and 15 & 20 percent of the community, followed by 20
strategic investments between the two age-old percent white-collar non-professionals (clerical
trading partners. staff, shop assistants, salesmen, accountants, etc.)
and the remainder 65% comprises blue-collar
India-UAE relations workers.
 India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE)  The Indian community has played a major role in
established diplomatic relations in 1972; the UAE the economic development of the UAE.
Embassy in India was opened in 1972, while the  In the meantime,the community provided much-
Indian Embassy in UAE was opened in 1973. needed remittances for India.
Economic relations UAE country profile

 UAE plays a crucial role in the energy security of  UAE is a country in Western Asia at the northeast
India. end of the Arabian Peninsula on the Persian Gulf.
 The sovereign constitutional monarchy is
a federation of seven emirates consisting of Abu
Dhabi.
64
RAISINA DIALOGUE
Context
 The PM and world leaders to attend Raisina of External Affairs of India.
Dialogue  The conference is structured as a multi-
stakeholder, cross-sectoral discussion,
About the Dialogue involving a variety of global policymakers
 The Raisina Dialogue is a multilateral including heads of state, cabinet ministers and
conference held annually in New Delhi, India. local government officials.
 Since its inception in 2016, the conference has  The Dialogue has been India‘s contribution to
emerged as India‘s flagship conference on global efforts to discover solutions, identify
geopolitics and geo-economics. opportunities and provide stability to a century
 The conference is hosted by the Observer that has witnessed an eventful two decades
Research Foundation, an independent  Thetheme of Raisina dialogue 2020 is
think tank, in collaboration with the Ministry Navigating the Alpha Century.
KALAPANI BORDER ISSUE

Context
 India, Nepal to hold talks on Kalapani. countries.
 However, British surveyors subsequently
All about the dispute showed the origin of the river, which has many
 Kalapani is a 372-sq km area at the China- tributaries, at different places. While Nepal
Nepal-India tri-junction. India claims claims that the river west of the disputed
Kalapani as a part of Uttarakhand while Nepal territory is the main river and so Kalapani falls
depicts the area in its map. in its territory, India claims a different origin
 The border dispute flared up again recently and includes the area in its territory.
after India released its new political map,  Strategically, Lipulekh Pass in Kalapani serves
following the reorganization of J&K, showing as an important vantage point for India to
the area as its own. keep an eye on Chinese movements. Since
 According to the Sugauli treaty signed 1962, Kalapani has been manned by the Indo-
between Nepal and British India in 1816, the Tibetan Border Police.
Mahakali River that runs through the  Both countries agreed to resolve the issue
Kalapani area is the boundary between the two through peaceful negotiations.
65
OPERATION VANILLA
Context
Indian Navy reaches flood-hit Madagascar, begins
medical camp.
 Indian Navy launched 'Operation Vanilla' in
support of flood-hit Madagascar and diverted a
large amphibious ship to provide assistance.
 Madagascar has been hit by a cyclone and
there has been heavy flooding and landslips
causing loss of lives and displacement of a
number of people. According to reports, more
than 92,000 people have been affected.
 Indian Navy has been the first responder for
Humanitarian and Disaster Relief (HADR) in
the Indian Ocean Region.
 Madagascar is the world's 2nd largest island
Madagascar country.
 Madagascar is an island country in the Indian
 Madagascar is a biodiversity hotspot; over
Ocean, approximately 400 kilometers off the
90% of its wildlife is found nowhere else on
coast of East Africa.
Earth.
US-CHINA TRADE DEAL

Context manipulation, rebalancing the US-China trade

 The US signed the first phase of a trade deal with relationship and effective dispute resolution.
China, concluding more than a year of tough
negotiations including several months of Analysis
suspension of talks between the two largest  Though the deal won't actually resolve the real
economies of the world. issues at the heart of the dispute, including
industrial subsidies, support for state-owned
About the deal enterprises, cyber theft, and other predatory
 The centerpiece of the deal is a pledge by China to practices in trade and technology, it brings
purchase at least an additional $200 billion worth temporary relief to the businessmen of both the
of U.S. farm products and other goods and services countries.
over two years.  Many critics argue that the US has gained very
 China to strengthen its intellectual property rules. little from the deal. Trump is getting precious little
 The US to halve tariffs on new Chinese products. in return for the significant pain and uncertainty
 Punitive tariffs on China would remain in place till he has imposed on our economy, farmers, and
the time the second phase of the trade deal is workers.
agreed upon.  An additional $200 billion purchase as pledged by
 The first phase of the trade deal also includes China would lead to the diversion of imports.
Protection and Enforcement, ending forced Consistency of such deal will be checked by other
technology transfer, a dramatic expansion of countries as per the international trade laws.
American agriculture, removing barriers to  With the initial success, the US may initiate similar
American financial services, ending currency actions with many other countries including India.
66
Recently, France has agreed to discuss and sort the  In other countries, it has also caused economic
trade issues with the US. damage, though some countries have benefited
 China‘s unfair trade practices were criticized by from increased manufacturing to fill the gaps.
many countries even before the China-US trade  It has also led to stock market instability.
war. Trade deal if successful may be a bargaining  Trade war impacted the Indian economy as
chip with China for many other powerful well. It is said that the trade war is one of the
economies where China maintains a trade surplus. major reasons for India‘s poor GDP growth.
 It was believed that the US-China trade war
Background of US-China trade war creates immense opportunities for India to
 The China–United States tradeis an replace China. However, reports indicate that
ongoing economic conflict between the world's two India gained very little from the trade war.
largest national economies, China and the United East Asian countries are the major gainers
States. from the trade war.
 The US, which accuses China of unfair trading
practices, launched a trade war. Two major Way forward
allegations of US were  It is said that the next round of negotiations will
 China stealing the intellectual properties of the start soon. The clear picture will be available only
US. after the results of next rounds of negotiations.
 Unfair trade practices in favor of domestic  The faster and effective deal is the need of the hour
companies through subsidies. to improve the global slowdown.
 Because of a trade war, the US imposed tariffs on  As far as India is concerned,
$250bn worth of Chinese products and Beijing has  The focus should be on retaining additional
retaliated with duties on $110bn worth of exports gained due to the trade war between
American products. the countries.
 The trade war between the countries impacted not  Improving the export mechanism from the
only the US and China but also the entire world. route to improve the export market. As
 In the United States, the trade war has brought suggested by the economic survey, India has a
struggles for farmers and manufacturers and huge scope for exports in the coming years.
higher prices for consumers.
 The analysis shows that US tariffs caused a
25% export loss, to Chinese exports in the US
market.
US-IRAN CONFLICT
Background
 Iran and the United States had no  Tensions between Iran and the United States
formal diplomatic relations since 1980. escalated in May 2019, with the U.S. deploying
 In 2015, Iran agreed for a long-term deal on more military assets to the Persian Gulf region
its nuclear program with a group of world after receiving intelligence reports of an alleged
powers known as the P5+1 – (the US, UK, France, "campaign" by Iran and its "proxies" to threaten
China, Russia, and Germany). U.S. forces.
 Under the accord, Iran agreed to limit its sensitive  Several merchant ships in the Persian Gulf were
nuclear activities and allow international damaged. Western nations blamed Iran, while Iran
inspectors in return for the lifting of crippling denied involvement.
economic sanctions.  General Qasem Soleimani was killed at Baghdad
 However, in May 2018, US President Donald airport by a US airstrike, personally approved
Trump abandoned the nuclear deal, before by Donald Trump.
reinstating sanctions against Iran and countries  During the crisis, Ukraine International Airlines
that trade with it. This lead to the worsening of Flight 752 was shot down after departing
relations between the US and Iran. from Tehran Imam Khomeini International
 Also trade between Iran and the other countries. Airport. Iranian military admitted in a statement
67
that they had mistakenly shot down the plane due last year after the lapse of the oil sanction waiver
to human error. extended by the US to India.
 On 5 January 2020, Iran ended its commitments  Currently, India and Iran are carrying the barter
to the nuclear deal. mechanism to carry the trade. With India forced by
the US to stop the purchase of oil from Iran, the
Analysis balance in the rupee-rial account is drying up as oil
 During the Obama tenure,the US-Iran conflict was was the chief item of import from the country.
on the verge of resolution in a peaceful manner. Trade may get stopped once the rupee-rial account
Mr. Trump‘s unilateral approach to withdrawal gets dried.
from the nuclear deal created the crisis we are  The killing of Iranian general Qasem Soleimani in
facing today. a US drone attack could hurt trade further as
 After withdrawal, the US also imposed sanctions India‘s exports to Iran, which have sustained
on Iran and pressurized other countries including despite the economic sanctions.
India to not conduct any trade with Iran.
 US sanctions created a huge economic crisis in Way forward
Iran that forced Iran to take hasty actions in the  With the end of the commitment of Iran towards
Gulf region. the nuclear deal, the tension in the region is its
 The US attacked Soleimaniin Iraq without prior peak. International organizations should take step
permission is against international practices and is towards maintaining peace in the region.
sheer aggression. Such action can only increase the  Other P5 countries apart from the US, and the
tension in the region.The action of the US was international community should pressurize the US
condemned on the international platform. towards the peaceful resolution of the problem
 US attack on Soleimanibrought Iraq into the through negotiations.
conflict making West Asia battleground again.  It is said that Iran gives backdoor support to
 Tension in the region leads to oil price fluctuations Hamas and Hezbollah to carry out terror activities
in the international market. in the region. Such action of Iran should be
stopped.
Impact of tensions on India  It should be noted that the current situation in the
 India is one of those countries, which maintainsa Gulf region is more forcefully created.
close relationship with both the US and Iran. Definitely,the problem can be resolved in a
 US-Iran crisis, especially the US sanctions on Iran peaceful manner.
impacted Indo-Iran trade significantly.  India being a mutual friend of both countries
 India-Iran trade declined a sharp 79.4 percent in should play a crucial role to ensure a peaceful
the first eight months of the current fiscal to $3.5 resolution of the problem.
billion from $17 billion in the comparable period
OPERATION SANKALP
Operation Sankalp
 Indian Navy launched Operation Sankalp in Persian Gulf
the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman to  The Persian Gulf (one of the most critical
reassure Indian flagged vessels transiting bodies of water), is positioned in the heart of
through the area. the Middle East. Located in southwestern Asia,
 The operation has been launched in the wake it separates the Arabian Peninsula
of escalating tension in the Gulf of Oman, from Iran (formerly called Persia).
where two oil tankers were attacked.  It connects with the Gulf of Oman and the
 The operation is being progressed in close Arabian Sea through the Strait of Hormuz,
coordination with all stakeholders including which is 30 to 60 miles (48 to 96 kilometers)
Ministry of Defense, Ministry of External wide.
Affairs, Ministry of Shipping, Ministry of  The Persian Gulf and its coastal areas are the
Petroleum and Natural Gas. world‘s largest single source of crude oil.
68
Gulf of Oman
 The Gulf of Oman or Sea is a gulf that  It borders Iran & Pakistan on the
connects the Arabian Sea with the Strait of north, Oman on the south, and the United
Hormuz, which then runs to the Persian Gulf. Arab Emirates on the west.
FACT-FINDER
69
BUDGET MANAGEMENT ACT
GS-III ECONOMY
Context FRBM Act

 S C Garg, former Economic Affairs secretary, has  Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management Act,
claimed that the actual fiscal deficit for the last 2003 (FRBMA) is an act of the Parliament of
financial year and the current one is more than a India to
full percentage point higher than the official data.  Institutionalize financial discipline
 This is because the government has been financing  Reduce India‘s fiscal deficit
the expenditure through off budget financing,  Improve macroeconomic management and the
which is not recorded through the Consolidated overall management of the public funds.
Fund of India(CFI).  Following targets were set under the act
 Revenue deficit Target: Zero
What is the significance of fiscal deficit?  Fiscal Deficit: Ceiling 3% of the GDP by 31
 If the fiscal deficit is too high, it implies that there March 2008
is a lesser amount of money left in the market for  Total Debt: 9% of the GDP (a target increased
private entrepreneurs and businesses to borrow. from the original 6% requirement in 2004–05)
 The lesser amount of this money, in turn, leads to  RBI purchase of government bonds to cease
higher rates of interest charged on such lending. from 1 April 2006
 This concern becomes more significant today;  Due to the 2007 international financial crisis, the
Indian businesses are facing high-interest rates. A deadlines for the implementation of the targets in
high fiscal deficit and higher interest rates at a the act was initially postponed and subsequently
time like this would also mean that the efforts of suspended in 2009.
the Reserve Bank of India to reduce interest rates  In May 2016, the government set up a committee
are undone. under NK Singh to review the FRBM Act. The
government believed the targets were too rigid.
Fiscal Deficit The committee recommended that the government
should target a fiscal deficit of 3 percent of the
Fiscal Deficit is the difference between the
GDP in years up to March 31, 2020, cut it to
Revenue Receipts plus Non-debt Capital Receipts
2.8 percent in 2020-21 and to 2.5 percent by
(NDCR) and the total expenditure.
2023.
Fiscal deficit is reflective of the total borrowing
requirements of Government. Criticism
 The act has been criticized saying its rules
are adverse since it might require the government
What is the acceptable level of the fiscal to cut back on social expenditure necessary to
deficit? create productive assets and general upliftment of
 There is no set universal level of fiscal deficit that rural poor of India.
is considered good. Typically, for a developing  The government is keeping only fiscal deficits.
economy, where private enterprises may be weak Over the past couple of years, it has been
and governments may be in a better state to invest, containing the fiscal deficit by reducing its capital
the fiscal deficit could be higher than in a expenditure.
developed economy.  It is very important to eliminate revenue deficit.
 In developing economies, governments also have Focusing only on the fiscal deficit has no meaning.
to invest in both social and physical infrastructure  The act is not binding on the government, makes
upfront without having adequate avenues for the act a toothless tiger. No authority is
raising revenues. inspecting/monitoring the adherence of the
 In India, the Fiscal Responsibility and Budget government as per the act.
Management (FRBM)Act require the central  With the presence of a large number of subsidies,
government to reduce its fiscal deficit to 3 it is very difficult to adhere to the target set by the
percent of Gross Domestic Production act.
(GDP). India has been struggling to achieve this
mark.
70
FINANCIAL INCLUSION STRATEGY FOR 2024

GS-III ECONOMY
Context
 The National Strategy for Financial Pension Fund Regulatory and Development
Inclusion for India 2019-2024 has been Authority of India (PFRDA).
prepared by Reserve Bank of India (RBI) under
the aegis of the Financial Inclusion Advisory What is financial inclusion?
Committee  Financial inclusion has been defined as ―the
 The report is based on the inputs and suggestions process of ensuring access to financial
from the Government of India, other Financial services, timely and adequate credit for
Sector Regulators viz., Securities Exchange Board vulnerable groups such as weaker sections
of India (SEBI), Insurance Regulatory and and low-income groups at an affordable
Development Authority of India (IRDAI) and cost‖
Reasons for financial exclusion
Challenges to financial inclusion  Product Usage: While the mission-based

 Inadequate Infrastructure: Limited physical approach to financial inclusion has resulted in
infrastructure, limited transport facility, increasing access to basic financial services
inadequately trained staff, etc., in parts of the rural including micro insurance and pension, there is a
hinterland and far-flung areas of the Himalayan need to increase the usage of these accounts to
and North East regions, create a barrier to the help customers achieve benefits of relevant
customer while accessing financial services. financial services and help the service providers to
 Poor Connectivity: With technology becoming achieve the necessary scale and sustainability.
an important enabler to access financial services,  Convenience and Relevance: The protracted
certain regions in the country that have poor and complicated procedures act as a deterrent
connectivity tend to be left behind in ensuring while on boarding customers.
access to financial services thereby creating a  Payment Infrastructure: There is a need to
digital divide. have more market players to promote innovation &
 Socio-Cultural Barriers: Prevalence of certain competition and to minimize concentration risk in
value systems and beliefs in some sections of the the retail payment system from a financial stability
population results in a lack of a favorable attitude perspective.
towards formal financial services. There are still
certain pockets wherein women do not have the About National Strategy for Financial Inclusion
freedom and choice to access financial services  The strategy sets the goals in the following six
because of cultural barriers. areas for financial inclusion
71
1. Universal Access to Financial Services: 5. Customer Protection and Grievance

Every village to have access to a formal financial Redressal: Customers shall be made aware of the
service provider within a reasonable distance of 5 recourses available for resolution of their
KM radius. grievances. About storing and sharing of
2. Providing Basic Bouquet of Financial customer‘s biometric and demographic data,
Services: Every adult who is willing and eligible adequate safeguards need to be ensured to protect
needs to be provided with a basic bouquet of the customer‘s Right to Privacy.
financial services that include a Basic Savings Bank 6. Effective Co-ordination: There needs to be a
Deposit Account, credit, a micro life and non-life focused and continuous coordination between the
insurance product, a pension product, and a key stakeholder‘s viz. Government, the Regulators,
suitable investment product. financial service providers, Telecom Service
3. Access to Livelihood and Skill Regulators, Skills Training institutes, etc.
Development:
4. Financial Literacy and Education: Easy to Evaluation of progress
understand financial literacy modules with specific  Periodic evaluation of financial inclusion policies
target audience orientation (e.g. children, young through monitoring of financial inclusion
adults, women, new workers/ entrepreneurs, parameters provides policymakers and stakeholders
family person, about to retire, retired, etc. in the with necessary insights to understand the
forms of Audio-Video/ booklets shall be made achievements made in the country and to address
available for understanding the product and issues and challenges through a coordinated
processes involved. It is also expected that these approach.
modules would help the new entrants.
72
COAL SECTOR
GS-III ECONOMY
Background  The country may also benefit from the infusion of

 Union Cabinet has relaxed the regulations for coal sophisticated mining technology, especially for
mining in India. underground mines, if multinationals decide to
 Mines and Minerals (Development and invest.
Regulation) Act, 1957, and Coal Mines (Special
Provisions) Act, 2015 amended. Issues
 This will open up the coal-mining sector  The opening up of coal mining effectively ends
completely, enabling anyone with finances and Coal India‘s (CIL) monopoly status. It is the
expertise to bid for blocks and sell the coal freely to government‘s responsibility to ensure that CIL is
any buyer of their choice. Earlier, only those in not compromised the way BSNL has been by the
power, iron, and steel and coal washery business opening up to private players.
could bid for mines — and the bidders' needed
prior experience of mining in India. Coal India Limited
 The action was taken considering that the country Coal India Limited (CIL) is an Indian state-
spent a huge Rs. 1,71,000 crores in coal imports owned coal mining and refinery company
last year to buy 235 million tonnes; of that, 135 headquartered in Kolkata.
million tonnes could have been substituted by It is the largest coal-producing company in
domestic production had it been available. the world. The company contributes to
around 82%of the coal production in
Benefits of this move India.CIL was conferred
 It would boost the ease of doing business and the Maharatna status by the Union
increase growth avenues for coal mining. Government of India.
 It helps to achieve the aim of the government to
achieve the production of 1 billion tonnes of coal
by 2023-2024.
 It will reduce the total coal imports and reduces Way forward
the current account deficit.  Opening the coal sector is a welcome move.
 The steel industry would get cheaper inputs, However, the Government needs to do more such
leading to an increase in ―competitiveness‖. as reducing the time taken for approvals of mining
 Large investment in mining will create jobs and set leases and easing the procedures for clearances.
off demand in critical sectors such as mining
equipment and heavy commercial vehicles.
 India has the fifth-largest coal reserves in the
Coal in India world, and is the fourth-largest producer of
 India is one of the largest coal producers in the coal in the world, producing 662.79 million metric
world with an output of 729 million tonnes in tons (730.60 million short tons) in 2016–17.
2018-19.  Despite having huge resources, India lacks
coking coal.
74
Types of coal of coal used in electricity generation. Bituminous

Coal is a combustible black or brownish- coal appears shiny and smooth when you first see
black sedimentary rock, formed as rock it but look closer and you may see it has layers. It
strata called coal seams. Coal is mostly carbon with has around 70 % carbon content.
variable amounts of other elements. Majorly there are  Lignite: Ligniteis the low-grade coal with a low
four types of coal. concentration of carbon (around 50 %).
 Anthracite: The highest rank of coal. It is a  Peat: Peat is not actually coal, but rather the
hard, brittle and black lustrous coal, often referred precursor to coal. Peat is a soft organic material
to as hard coal, containing a high percentage of consisting of partly decayed plant and, in some
fixed carbon (around 90%) and a low percentage of cases, deposited mineral matter. When peat is
volatile matter. placed under high pressure and heat, it becomes
 Bituminous: Bituminous usually has a high coal.
heating (Btu) value and is the most common type
OPERATION TWIST
GS-III ECONOMY
What is it?
 RBI has launched its own version of  It is mostly because Indian banks are failing to
―Operation Twist‖ through simultaneous transmit the cumulative rate cut passed on by
selling of short-term securities and buying of the RBI this year. It may be noted banks not
long term securities through open market succeeded in passing on lower interest rates to
operations (OMO). customers despite RBI's mandate to link
 Operation Twist is the name given to a lending rates with its external benchmark.
monetary policy tool that the US Federal  However, with rising inflation and fiscal
Reserve had initiated to influence the pressure, the RBI went for Operation Twist,
prevailing rate of interest in the markets. which aims to get yields of long-term bonds
lower without a cut in key interest rate.
 RBI will buy Rs.10,000 crores worth of 10-
 As the central bank buys more long-term
year government bonds while selling four
security and sells off short term bonds, the
shorter-term government bonds adding up to bond yield -- the return an investor gets on his
the same value. holding - comes down significantly. Since
 The intent is to moderate high long-term long-term bond yield (10-year government
interest rates in the market and bring them securities) is a key market interest rate, lower
closer to the repo rate. rates can help people avail more long-term
 Whenever there is a long-term investment loans. It also helps in bringing down overall
borrowing costs for the government.
deficit in the country and the investors are
hesitant to make long-term investments in the
Benefits of Operation twist
economy, the government jumps in to revive  Interest rates of long-term investments will
growth by lowering the interest rate for long- come down. It will help the investors to invest
term investment ventures. in long term projects.
 The move could have an overall positive
The rationale behind this move impact on the market, as lower interest rates
 India's economy is reeling under pressure due will offer more space for retail spending.
to a slew of factors including a slump in  This, in turn, hasa multiplier effect on the
demand and lower consumption. Indian economy. Lower interest rates
 The central bank has cut 135 basis points increases the money supply, increases
economic activities, create more jobs,
throughout the year but has achieved little in
increases consumption.
terms of boosting demand.
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RETAIL INFLATION
GS-III ECONOMY
Context
 Consumer food price inflation has hit 14.12 Price Stabilisation Fund
percent year-on-year in December 2019, the
The Price Stabilization Fund (PSF) intends to
highest after it touched 17.89 percent reached
regulate the price volatility of important agri-
more than six years ago in November 2013.
horticultural commodities like onion, potatoes
 Retail inflation ripped its way above the central
and pulses were also added subsequently.
bank‘s 6% ceiling in December, with the headline
number for that month rising to 7.35%. The Price Stabilization Fund Trust (PSFT) was
set up by the Department of Commerce and
NABARD to implement the PSF Scheme.
The scheme provides for maintaining a

strategic buffer of commodities.
For building such stock, the scheme promotes

direct purchase from farmers/farmers‘
association at farm gate/Mandi.
Way forward
 The first and foremost duty is to contain the retail
inflation, which can be done by containing the food
price fluctuations.
 In the short term, it can be done through balancing
supply-demand gap through importing required
items, strict actions against the hoarders.
 However, in long term price stabilization
mechanisms should be put in place. Adoption of
modern technologies, modern storage facilities to
ensure the price stabilization in the market.
Terms Explained
Details
Inflation is defined as the sustained rise in the
 Food inflation of 14.12% is the major reason for the
prices.
increase in retail inflation.
 Almost all sub-categories in the official food Rate of Inflation is measured in terms of price
basket—, which constitutes 45% of the consumer indices. These are two types.
price index—recorded upturns in price levels.
 Vegetables, the most volatile of the lot, saw prices Wholesale price Index (Inflation at wholesale
soar 60%. level)
 Reserve Bank of India (RBI) had feared when it
pause its interest rate easing cycle and warned of Consumer price index (Inflation at
rising inflationary expectations. consumer/retail level)
 The surge in food inflation is largely due to uneven
Headline Inflation is the measure of total
monsoon rains that left much of the summer crop
inflation within an economy including price rise
damaged last year.
in food, fuel and all other commodities.
Core inflation shows the average rise in the

price of all goods and services excluding energy
and food articles.
76
Inflation targeting in India framework in India by specifying the primary

 Inflation targeting is a monetary policy where a objective of monetary policy as maintaining price
central bank follows an explicit target for the stability while keeping in mind the objective of
inflation rate for the medium-term and announces growth.
this inflation target to the public. In India, RBI is  To operationalize this mandate, the Government of
responsible for inflation targeting. India notified a medium-term inflation target of
 The assumption is that the best that monetary 4%, with a band of +/- 2 percent for the period
policy can do to support the long-term growth of from August 2016 to March 2021.
the economy is to maintain price stability.  The inflation target has been fixed in terms of all-
 The amended Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934, India CPI-Combined published by the Central
which came into effect in June 2016, paved the Statistics Office (CSO).
way for a flexible inflation targeting (FIT)
AGRICULTURAL AND PROCESSED FOOD

PRODUCTS EXPORT DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
GS-III ECONOMY
Context  Carrying out inspection of meat and meat products

 Market Intelligence Cell for Agri Exporters set up in slaughterhouses, processing plants, storage
by APEDA premises, conveyances or other places where such
products are kept or handled for the purpose of
About APEDA ensuring the quality of such products;
 The Agricultural and Processed Food Products  Improving of the packaging of the Scheduled
Export Development Authority (APEDA) was products;
established by the Government of India under the  Improving marketing of the Scheduled products
Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export outside India;
Development Authority Act passed by the  Promotion of export-oriented production and
Parliament in December 1985. development of the Scheduled products;
 It is an apex body under the Ministry of Commerce  Collection of statistics from the owners of factories
and Industry, Government of India, responsible or establishments engaged in the production,
for the export promotion of agricultural and processing, packaging, marketing or export of the
processed food products. scheduled products or from such other persons as
may be prescribed on any matter relating to the
Following functions have been assigned to the scheduled products and publication of the
Authority statistics so collected.
 Development of industries export  Training in various aspects of the industries
 Fixing of standards and specifications for the connected with the scheduled products;
scheduled products for the purpose of exports;  Such other matters as may be prescribed.
NORTH-EAST GAS GRID

GS-III ECONOMY
Context  About 20% of India‘s natural gas production

 Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) comes from the Northeast.
approved aRs. 5,559 crores viability gap funding
for the proposed northeast gas grid. About the grid
 Gas accounts for around 6.2% of India‘s primary  North East Gas Grid project will be constructed in
energy mix against the global average of 24%. The the states of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur,
government plans to increase this to 15% by 2030. Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and
India‘s gas demand is expected to be driven by Tripura.
fertilizer, power, city gas distribution and steel  The Northeast pipeline grid is to be implemented
sectors. by Indradhanush Gas Grid, a joint venture of state-
77
owned GAIL India, Indian Oil Corp (IOC), Oil and  The government has been pushing for a gas-based
Natural Gas Corp (ONGC), Oil India Ltd (OIL) and economy. India plans to connect 10 million
Numaligarh Refinery Ltd (NRL). households to piped natural gas by 2020. The grid
 The gas grid will get 60% funding support from the acts as the right step in this direction. The pipeline
government and would raise the rest via equity and grid would ensure reliability and uninterrupted
debt. natural gas supplies to the consumers which
 This is the second time that a gas pipeline project otherwise gets severely affected due to various
in the country will be funded by the government. reasons in this part of the country
 For effective monitoring of the project  The Capital Grant will provide natural gas supplies
implementation, a committee may be formed, to various types of consumer‘s viz. Industrial, PNG
which would periodically review the progress in its (Domestic), CNG (Transport), etc. and would
implementation and take steps to smoothen out immensely help in substituting the liquid fuels.
any issues in execution.  The latest move is in sync with the government‘s
Act East policy, with to transform the northeast
Positive implications of this move region into a gateway to Southeast Asia.
 India is the biggest emitter of greenhouse gases
after the US and China. The gas grid will reduce
the green housing emission.
FARMERS’ INNOVATION FUND

GS-III ECONOMY
Context  It reports to the Department of Agricultural

 Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) is Research and Education, Ministry of Agriculture.
poised to set up a Farmers‘ Innovation Fund.  The Union Minister of Agriculture serves as its
president.
About the fund  It is the largest network of agricultural research
 The innovation center will be established in New and education institutes in the world.
Delhi where the innovations will be scientifically  Presently, the regulation of agricultural education
validated. is the mandate of ICAR, Veterinary Council of
 Farmers will also be allowed to pursue research India (Veterinary sub-discipline) and Indian
under the system. Council of Forestry Research and Education.
 Innovations of farmers are being documented by  Indian Council of Agricultural Research's
the Krishi Vigyan Kendras. headquarters is in New Delhi.
 The main intention was to link farmers and
farming with science and to ensure that Krishi Vigyan Kendras
their farm practices are science-based.  The KVK scheme is 100% financed by Govt. of
 A linkage had been created between 105 startups India
with farmers.  KVK is an integral part of the National Agricultural
 The ICAR had also developed 45 different organic Research System (NARS), aims at assessment of
farming models suitable for different agro-climatic location-specific technology modules in agriculture
regions and had validated 51 integrated farming and allied enterprises, through technology
systems to help increase farm income. assessment, refinement and demonstrations.
 Usually associated with a local agricultural
Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) university, these centers serve as the ultimate link
 The (ICAR) is an autonomous body responsible between the Indian Council of Agricultural
for co-coordinating agricultural education and Research and farmers and aim to apply
research in India. agricultural research in a practical, localized
setting.
78
INFRASTRUCTURE AGENDA
GS-III ECONOMY
Context  Identifying the projects to be put on the pipeline is

 Finance Minister unveiled an ambitious the easy part. Implementing and commissioning
infrastructure agenda, announcing projects worth them will be the more difficult one.
Rs 102 lakh crores, to be implemented by 2024-25.  The financing plan assumes that the Centre and
the States will fund 39% each while the private
About the projects sector will chip in with 22% of the outlay. Going by
 Projects in energy, roads, railways and urban the present fiscal situation, it will be no small
infrastructure under the National challenge for the Centre to raise Rs. 39 lakh crores,
Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP) have been even if it is over the next five years. The financial
identified by a task force. position of States is even more perilous.
 About 42% of such identified projects are already  Rs. 22 lakh crores expected from private
under implementation, 19% are under investment also looks steep considering the lack of
development and 31% are at the conceptual stage. appetite for fresh investment by the private sector
in the last few years. In fact, this factor has been a
Why this agenda is challenging? major drag on economic growth. Given the scale of
 Infrastructure investment over the past six years investment, debt will play an important role and it
adds up to Rs 51.2 lakh crores, doubling this over remains to be seen if banks have gotten over their
the next six years is a tall order. apprehensions on infrastructure financing as a
 Currently, the economy has slowed down major part of their bad loans originated there.
considerably. The financial system remains  Cooperation from States becomes very important
choked. In addition, a broad-based pickup in in implementing infrastructure projects. The
growth is unlikely in the near term. Reviving the experience on this count has not been very happy
investment cycle requires more than just until now.
ambitious targets.
 The overleveraged corporate sector that is in no Way Forward
mood to invest and achieving these targets look  Looking at the current scenario, the infrastructure
increasingly difficult. agenda looks too ambitious. However, strong steps
 Roughly, a fourth of investments are estimated in need to be taken to achieve the target set.
the power sector. However, as existing plants are  Such an agenda need to be supplemented with
operating well below their peak capacity, whether measures to address the weaknesses in the current
the corporate sector will invest in new plants public-private partnership models to encourage
whose financial viability is unclear is debatable. private sector participation.
 Out of the total projects, 31 percent are still at the  Considering that the NIP will be like a window to
conceptual stage, while another 8 percent are the future, a constant review becomes paramount.
unclassified, suggesting little clarity over almost 40 It is very essential to complete the projects on
percent of the pipeline. time.
E-COMMERCE IN INDIA
GS-III ECONOMY
About the study  The study has helped to gather useful insights and
 The Market Study on E-commerce in India (‗the information on the key features of e-commerce in
study‘) was initiated by the Competition India, the different business models of e-
Commission of India in April 2019 with a view to commerce players, and the various aspects of
better understand the functioning of e-commerce commercial arrangements between market
in India and its implications for markets and participants involved in e-commerce.
competition.
79
 The study confirms that online commerce is  Search ranking: Terms and conditions of search
gaining importance across the sectors studied. ranking of the items need to be put on websites.
The share of online distribution and its relative  Collection, use and sharing of data: Set out a
importance vis-à-vis traditional channels varies clear and transparent policy on data that is
significantly across products. collected on the platform, the use of such data by
 Issues identified with E-commerce include the platform and also the potential and actual
lack of platform neutrality, unfair platform-to- sharing of such data with third parties or related
business contract terms, exclusive contracts entities.
between online marketplace platforms and  User review and rating mechanism:
sellers/service providers, platform price parity Adequate transparency over user review and rating
restrictions and deep discounts. mechanisms is necessary for ensuring information
symmetry, which is a prerequisite for fair
On the basis of the market study findings, CCI competition.
priorities following in E-commerce  Revision in contract terms: Notify the
 Ensuring competition on the merits to harness business users concerned about any proposed
efficiencies for consumers changes in terms and conditions. The proposed
 Increasing transparency to create an incentive for changes not to be implemented before the expiry
competition and to reduce information asymmetry of a notice period.
 Fostering sustainable business relationships  Discount policy: Bring out clear and transparent
between all stakeholders policies on discounts, including inter alia the basis
of discount rates funded by platforms for different
The CCI urges the e-commerce platforms to put in products/suppliers and the implications of
place the following transparency measures. participation/non-participation in discount
schemes.
AUTOMOBILE INDUSTRY SLOWDOWN

GS-III ECONOMY
Context  Availability of easy cab services: Advent of
 India is witnessing the worst kind of slowdown in Ola, Uber services changed the mindset of people
its automobile industry. towards the purchase of new vehicles.
 The Electrification Equation: Even the
Reasons for slowdown government‘s rhetoric surrounding electric
 Harder To Get Loans: Slowing income growth mobility and electric vehicles leaves many
and Non-banking financial companies (NBFC) uncertainties for both carmakers and buyers about
crisis are primary reasons for the current what to invest in and more critically when to
slowdown compared to earlier cycles, which had invest.
been triggered by global events like the Asian  The global slowdown has also impacted the
crisis, Dotcom bubble, global financial crisis, etc. automobile sector in India.
 Sharp regulatory cost pressure: Over FY19-
21, vehicle prices are estimated to jump 13-30 Impact of the Auto sector slowdown
percent (1-2 percent per annum over the previous  The automobile sector is one of the very important
decade) due to safety, insurance and emission- sectors having very strong forward and backward
related compliance costs. Come April 2020, India linkages. The slowdown in the sector impacted the
will upgrade to BS-VI from BS-IV emission entire ecosystem.
standard given that general price hike over the  The auto sector crisis impacted the industrial
previous decade was 1-2 percent per annum. growth of 2019-20.The growth of the
 Stiff competition from growing organized manufacturing sector was 0.9 percent during
pre-owned vehicle market 2019-20 (April-November) as compared to 4.9
 Confusion around BS-VI emission percent during 2018-19 (April-November). One of
standards: Some new car buyers to wait for the the major reasons for this slowdown is the
BS6 deadline to draw closer in order to get the best slowdown in the automobile sector.
possible deals  More than two lakh jobs have been lost during the
crisis. This is very less when we consider indirect
80
job losses due to the slowdown in the sector. 2. Electric Vehicles clear guidelines: It is a good move
Millions of jobs are under threat. to support EVs in India. However, the transition
 Automobile companies are under crisis. Many of has to happen in a sustained manner. Abrupt
the automobile companies stopped their decisions of the government will hurt not only the
production to 3 days a week. If the scenario automobile industry but also millions of people
continues, it will worsen. dependent on it.
 MSME sector is one of the major suppliers of auto 3. BS-VI clear guidelines are required. Uncertainty in
components. It is under severe threat due to the the deadlines hurt the industry a lot. The clear
slowdown in the auto sector. guideline will help to streamline automotive
production.
What needs to be done? 4. Boost consumption: The government needs to
1. It was said that the present slowdown is due to a boost consumption by consumer-friendly policies
lack of policy measures from the government. So, and measures.
clear guidelines is required.
SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONES

GS-III ECONOMY
What is the Special Economic Zone?  Creation of employment opportunities

 Special Economic Zones (SEZs.) are specifically  Development of infrastructure facilities
delineated enclaves. They are treated as foreign
territory for the purpose of industrial service and Reasons for failure of SEZs
trade operations.  Failure of local Indian politicians to select SEZ
 The SEZs are given several relaxations of customs sites that offer maximum development potential.
and other duties including anti-dumping duty. Site selection for SEZs has been guided by self-
 Any private/public/joint sector or state serving agendas rather than considerations of
government or its agencies can set up an SEZ. growth and development.
 In all SEZs, the statutory functions are controlled  As things stand, many of India‘s SEZ‘s now lie
by the government. The government also controls vacant, hurting not just economic growth but also
the operation and maintenance function in the equity. As real estate businesses have thrived
seven central government-controlled SEZs. The under the guise of SEZs, rich fertile lands have
rest of the operations and maintenance are been diverted away from farmers without any real
privatized. development.
 The Government of India had announced a Special  India has signed a number of Free Trade
Economic Zone Scheme in April 2000 with a view Agreements (FTAs), with countries such as Sri
to providing an internationally competitive Lanka, Japan and the Association of Southeast
environment for exports. Asian Nations (ASEAN), under which import
 In order to give a long term and stable policy duties have been slashed to zero for several
framework with the minimum regulatory regime product lines. This impact local sales of SEZ units,
and to provide expeditious and single window which are taxed at higher rates.
clearance mechanism.  A major reason for the success of SEZs in China
 In order to give a long term and stable policy was the creation of complementary infrastructure,
framework with the minimum regulatory regime power, roads, and ports; these are lacking in India.
and to provide expeditious and single window  Another major reason for the SEZs languishing in
clearance mechanism, a Central Act for Special the absence of external infrastructure support. The
Economic Zones has been found to be necessary. SEZs have to be connected with ports and airports
To achieve this purpose, a "Special Economic with world-class roads and rail; ports and airports,
Zones Bill, 2005" is proposed. too, have to be world-class, with Customs
authorities adopting international best practices in
The main objectives of the SEZ Act are trade facilitation. This is not the case at present.
 Generation of additional economic activity  SEZ policy has backfired. Far from turning India
 Promotion of exports of goods and services into a powerhouse of manufacturing exports, the
 Promotion of investment from domestic and control-free industrial enclaves have become
foreign sources centers of corruption and scam.
81
UDAY SCHEME
GS-III ECONOMY
About the scheme were to bring down AT&C losses to 15 percent by

 Ujjwal DISCOM Assurance Yojana (UDAY) is FY19.
the financial turnaround and revival package for  Some states have raised power tariffs, the hikes
electricity distribution companies of India have not been sufficient as political considerations
(DISCOMs). prevailed over commercial decisions. As a result,
 It is initiated by the Government of India with the the gap between the average cost per unit of power
intent to find a permanent solution to the financial and the revenue realized has not declined in the
mess that the power distribution is in. manner envisaged, forcing DISCOMS to reduce
 It allows state governments, which own the their power purchases and delay payments to
DISCOMs, to take over 75 percent of their debt and power producers.
pay back lenders by selling bonds.  This, in turn, has impaired the ability of power
 DISCOMs are expected to issue bonds for the generating companies to service their debt, causing
remaining 25 percent of their debt. stress to the banking sector.
 The scheme is optional for the states to join.
 UDAY requires DISCOMS to reduce the average Way forward
Aggregate Technical and Commercial (AT&C)  Despite initiatives, the UDAY scheme has not
losses to 15% by 2018-19. reached its expectations. Power distribution
 UDAY also requires DISCOMS to maintain companies are the largest debt contributors to the
commercial sustainability, and bring down the gap state governments. It is very essential to make
between the Average Cost of Supply (ACS) and DISCOMs profitable.
Average Revenue Realized (ARR) to zero.  Transmission and Distribution losses need to be
addressed effectively.
Reasons for failure of the scheme  Power theft needs to be considered serious offense
 Across several states, there is a lack of effective and actions need to be taken to address the
billing procedures, poor measurement of problem.
power consumption, and ineffective  The government should rationalize the power
monitoring of power theft. prices to ensure the profitability of DISCOMS.
 AT&C losses have declined in some states, but not  Stiff penalties need to be imposed on the states/
to the extent envisaged. Under UDAY, DISCOMS DISCOMS for not meeting the targets laid out in
the new scheme.
FACT-FINDER
82
CORRUPTION PERCEPTION INDEX (CPI)

GS-III ECONOMY
Context
 India has slipped two spots to number 80 in the Performance of India
Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI).  India has been ranked at the 80th position among
180 countries and territories.
About the Index Performance of other countries
 It is prepared annually by the Germany-based  Major protests across the world last year signal a
“Transparency International”. growing lack of trust in government and erode
 It offers a snapshot of the relative degrees of public public confidence in political leaders, elected
sector corruption by ranking countries and officials and democracy.
territories from around the world.  Denmark and New Zealand have cornered the top
 It gives each country a score from zero (highly spot, followed by Finland, Singapore, Sweden and
corrupt) to 100 (very clean). Switzerland in the top ten.
 The 2019 CPI, released on January 23, draws on 13
surveys and expert assessments to measure public
sector corruption in 180 countries and territories.
Transparency International
Transparency International is an international non-governmental organization, which is based

in Berlin, Germany.
Founded in 1993.
Purpose of this nonprofit organization is to take action to combat globalcorruption with civil societal anti-
corruption measures and to prevent criminal activities arising from corruption.
83
ENEMY PROPERTY
GS-III ECONOMY
Context  However, the Government of Pakistan disposed of

 The government is thinking to disposed of enemy all such properties in their country in the year 1971
properties. itself.
What is enemy property? Legal provisions in India

 During the India-Pakistan wars of 1965 and 1971,  The Enemy Property Act, enacted in 1968,
there was a migration of people from India to provided for the continuous vesting of enemy
Pakistan. property in the Custodian of Enemy Property for
 Under the Defence of India Rules framed under India.
the Defence of India Act, 1962, the Government of  In 2017, Parliament passed The Enemy Property
India took over the properties and companies (Amendment and Validation) Bill, 2016, which
of those who took Pakistani nationality. Such amended The Enemy Property Act, 1968, and The
properties are called enemy properties. Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorized
 These “enemy properties” were vested by the Occupants) Act, 1971.
central government in the Custodian of Enemy  Amendment was introduced to nullify the court
Property for India. judgments given earlier about the issue.
 The act was also extended for property left behind  The amended law provided that enemy property
by those who went to China after the 1962 Sino- shall continue to vest in the Custodian even if the
Indian war. enemy or enemy subject or enemy firm ceases to
 The Tashkent Declaration of 1966 included a be an enemy due to death, extinction, winding up
clause that said India and Pakistan would discuss of business or change of nationality, or that the
the return of the property and assets taken over by legal heir or successor is a citizen of India or a
either side in connection with the conflict. citizen of a country, which is not an enemy.
SOVEREIGN GOLD BONDS SCHEME

GS-III ECONOMY
Context shall be 4 KG for individual, 4 Kg for HUF and 20

 Sovereign Gold Bonds 2019-20 opened to the Kg for trusts.
public.  The price of Bond will be fixed in Indian Rupees on
the basis of a simple average of the closing price.
About the Scheme  The investors will be compensated at a fixed rate of
 SGBs are government securities denominated in 2.50 percent per annum payable semi-annually on
grams of gold. They are substitutes for holding the nominal value.
physical gold. Investors have to pay the issue price  Bonds can be used as collateral for loans.
in cash and the bonds will be redeemed in cash on
maturity. Significance of the scheme
 These Gold bonds will be issued by Reserve Bank  Hassle-free: Ownership of gold without any
India on behalf of the Government of India. physical possession (No risks and no cost of
 Resident individuals, Hindu Undivided Family storage)
(HUFs), Trusts, Universities, and Charitable  Tax treatment: The capital gains tax arising on
Institutions can purchase the bonds. the redemption of SGB to an individual has been
 The tenor of the Bond will be for a period of 8 exempted.
years with an exit option after the 5th year will be  Tradability: Bonds will be tradable on stock
available. exchanges.
 The minimum permissible investment will be 1
gram of gold. The maximum limit of subscribed
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 Interest: Unlike physical gold, bonds will  Improves the Balance of payment
gain interest. challenge by reducing gold imports
SOCIAL MOBILITY INDEX

GS-III ECONOMY
Context Why social mobility is important?

 India has been ranked very low at 76th place out of  Social mobility can help us understand speed –
82 countries on a new Social Mobility Index that is, how long it takes for individuals at the
compiled by the World Economic Forum. bottom of the scale to catch up with those at the
top.
What is social mobility?  It also helps us to understand the intensity that is,
 Social mobility is the movement of individuals, how many steps it takes for an individual to move
families, households, or other categories of people up the ladder in a given period – of social
within or between social strata in a society. mobility.
 It is a change in social status relative to one's  Research also shows that countries with high levels
current social location within a given society. of relative social mobility exhibit lower levels of
income inequality.
How is social mobility calculated?
 The WEF‟s Global Social Mobility Index assesses
the 82 economies on “10 pillars” spread across the
following five key dimensions of social mobility:
 Health; World Economic Forum
 Education (access, quality, and equity, lifelong The World Economic Forum (WEF), based Geneva,
learning); Switzerland, is an NGO, founded in 1971.
 Technology; It is a membership-based organization, and
 Work (opportunities, wages, conditions); membership is made up of the world's largest
 Protection and Institutions (social protection and corporations.
inclusive institutions). Major reports published by WEF are
Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report
Global Competitiveness Report (GCR)
Global Information Technology Report
Global Risk Report
85
ELECTORAL BONDS
GS-III ECONOMY
Context
Pros of the Scheme
 Top court seeks Govt. and Election Commission
response on plea to stay electoral bonds.  This makes it possible to give political
contributions through a legitimate channel.
About electoral bonds scheme  The identity of the donor will be safe.
 Electoral bonds are interest-free banking  Income to political parties through the electoral
instruments, which can be bought from specified bond route will be accountable.
branches of State Bank of India in multiples
of 1,000, 1 lakh, 10 lakh or 1 crores.As per Concerns with the Scheme
provisions of the Scheme, Electoral Bonds may be  Removal of a cap on corporate donations that
purchased by a person, who is a citizen of India, existed earlier7.5% of the three-year average net
incorporated, or established in India. profit enables businesses to make unlimited
 These can be purchased by individuals and political donations without having to disclose the
companies who have to disclose their identity recipient‟s name.
through know your customer (KYC) norms to SBI.  Lack of transparency as we do not know who is
 Only the Political Parties registered under Section giving what to whom and what they are getting in
29A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 return. Only the government, through ministries,
(43 of 1951) and which secured not less than one has access to this information
percent of the votes polled in the last General  Several NGOs, Opposition parties, and even the
Election to the House of the People or the Election Commission of India have raised concerns
Legislative Assembly of the State, shall be eligible over the use of electoral bonds.
to receive the Electoral Bonds.  It was said that the majority of the amount
 The Electoral Bonds shall be encashed by an received through the scheme has been donated to
eligible Political Party only through a Bank account the ruling party. Information creates skepticism in
with the authorized Bank. the scheme.
 Electoral Bonds shall be valid for fifteen calendar
days from the date of issue and no payment shall Way forward
be made to any payee Political Party if the  The solution to this is setting up a “National
Electoral Bond is deposited after the expiry of the Election Fund” where corporate houses and
validity period. Under the scheme, bonds not individual donors can contribute 100% tax-free
encashed within the validity period of 15 days are funds. The EC could be given the task of
to be deposited by the authorized bank with the overseeing it. The money can then be divided
Prime Minister‟s Relief Fund. among political parties mostly in kind and a part in
 The Electoral Bond deposited by an eligible cash
Political Party in its account shall be credited on
the same day
INDIA- PAKISTAN TRADE RELATIONS

GS-III ECONOMY
Context About the trade relations

 India-Pakistan trade nearly collapsed in 2019.  In 1948-49, about 56% of Pakistan‟s exports were
to India, and 32% of its imports came from India.
86
 India remained Pakistan‟s largest trading partner

until 1955-56. Between 1947 and 1965, the
countries signed 14 bilateral agreements on trade,
covering avoidance of double taxation, air services,
and banking, etc.
 After that due to the wars, border disputes, LOC
violation etc. trade was reduced to minimal.
 Formally accountedIndia-Pakistan bilateral trade
in 2012-13 was US$2.6 billion.
 India had accorded MFN status to Pakistan.
Pakistan did not reciprocate the same.
 Tensions between India and Pakistan in 2019 have
reduced the already low volumes of trade between  It is said that stronger trade relations will ensure
the two countries to near zero. better overall relations. For instance, India and
 India withdrew Most Favored Nation (MFN) China have very good trade relations. Both
status for Pakistan and raised customs duty on countries fear that trade may get affected in case of
Pakistani imports to 200% and, in April, escalation of other issues. Hence, try to resolve the
suspended cross-LoC trade to stop the misuse of problem through peaceful negotiations.
this route by Pakistan-based elements.  Both India and Pakistan should think to build
strong trade relations with a wider population base
Way forward dependent on the trade. This can be the long-
 Both India and Pakistan have huge trade potential. lasting solution to the tensions India – Pakistan
However, the presence of terrorism in Pakistan is relations.
detrimental to trade.
YEAR-END REVIEW 2019 - MINISTRY OF

AGRICULTURE, COOPERATION AND FARMERS
GS-III WELFARE
ECONOMY
 The major highlights of the Department of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-
Agriculture, Cooperation and Farmers Welfare KISAN)
during the year 2019 are as follows:  Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-
KISAN) is a Central Sector Scheme with
Pradhan Mantri Kisan Maan Dhan Yojana (PM- 100% funding from the Government of India.
KMY)  PM-KISAN Scheme provides for the transfer of an
 Pradhan Mantri Kisan Maan-Dhan Yojana (PM- amount of Rs. 6000/- per year in three equal
KMY) is an old-age pension scheme for all installments each of Rs. 2000/- directly into the
landholding Small and Marginal Farmers bank account of beneficiary farmer families.
(SMFs) in the country.  It covers all farmer families irrespective of
 It provides the payment of minimum pension landholding size, subject to applicable exclusions.
of Rs.3000/- per month to the eligible farmers on  The definition of the family for the Scheme is
attaining the age of 60 years. husband, wife and minor children.
 It is a voluntary and contributory pension  The entire responsibility of identification of
scheme, with an entry age of 18 to 40 years. beneficiary farmer families rests with the State /
 The monthly contribution by farmer ranges UT Governments.
between Rs.55 to 200. Central Government will  The Common Service Centres (CSCs) have also
contribute an equal amount in the pension been authorized to do the registration of the
scheme. farmers for the Scheme upon payment of fees.
 The Life Insurance Corporation of India  Farmers can also do their self-registration through
(LIC) shall be the Pension Fund Manager and the Farmers Corner in the portal.
responsible for Pension payout. If the farmer dies
after the retirement date, the spouse will receive
50% of the pension as Family Pension.
87
e-NAM –ONE NATION ONE MARKET

GS-III ECONOMY
e-NAM
 National Agriculture Market or eNAM is an online complete a transact on the app, available in
trading platform for agricultural commodities in different languages.
India.  The payment network RTGS/NEFT, debit card,
 The market facilitates farmers, traders, and buyers internet banking, mobile payment, Unified
with online trading in commodities. Payment Interface (UPI) facility through BHIM
 The market is helping in better price discovery and integrated into the app.
provides facilities for smooth marketing of their
produce. Other Initiatives and Achievements
 The present trading is done mostly for intra-  Seed-Hub Centres have been sanctioned across
the country for increasing the availability of quality
market, but in phases, it will be rolled out to trade
seeds of Nutri-Cereals (Millets).
in inter-market, inter-state, creating a unified
 Multi-lingual Mobile App “CHC-Farm
national market for agricultural commodities. Machinery” was launched, which helps the
 An eNAM mobile application is available farmers for getting rented farm machinery and
on Android for farmers and traders to bid and implements through Custom Hiring Service
Centers (CHC) in their area.
IN-DEPTH REVIEW OF INDIA'S ENERGY POLICY

REPORT
GS-III ECONOMY
Context pollution as well as 300 million tonnes of

 In-depth review of India's Energy Policy report by CO2 emissions between 2000 and 2018.
the International Energy Agency (IEA) was  India is becoming increasingly influential in global
launched in New Delhi. energy trends. The country‟s demand for energy is
 It highlights the achievements of India‟s energy set to double by 2040, and its electricity demand
policies and provides recommendations to support may triple.
the government‟s goals of promoting well-
functioning energy markets and boosting the Recommendations
deployment of renewable.  In India share of variable renewable in electricity
generation is already above 15%, a level that calls
About the report for dedicated policies to ensure they integrate
 The IEA report congratulates the Indian smoothly into the power system.
government on its outstanding achievements in  It recommends the Institutionalization of energy
extending citizens‟ access to electricity, affordable policy coordination across government with a
efficient lighting, and clean cooking in record time national energy policy framework. NITI Aayog has
through historic schemes like SAUBHAGYA, already started preparing a National Energy
UJALA and UJJWALA while pursuing energy Strategy.
market reforms and the swift deployment of  India needs to promote open and well-functioning
renewable technologies. energy markets in sectors such as coal, gas, and
 According to the report renewable in India now electricity.
accounts for almost 23% of the country‟s total  Strong regulators tobuild to ensure non-
installed capacity. discriminatory access, moving from state
 The review also found that energy efficiency allocation to market pricing, and further
improvements in India avoided 15% of additional rationalizing energy subsidies.
energy demand, oil and gas imports, and air  NITI Aayog can play a strong role in working
with the states to implement power sector
88
reforms, advance grid integration, improve decisions.

flexibility and coordinate energy policy
International Energy Agency

The International Energy Agency is a Paris-based autonomous intergovernmental organization established in the
framework of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) in 1974 in the wake of the 1973
oil crisis.
The IEA acts as a policy adviser to its member states, but also works with non-member countries,
especially China, India and Russia.
The Agency's mandate has broadened to focus on the "3Es" of effectual energy policy: energy security, economic
development, and environmental protection
The IEA has a broad role in promoting alternate energy sources (including renewable energy), rational energy
policies, and multinational energy technology co-operation.
IEA member countries are required to maintain total oil stock levels equivalent to at least 90 days of the previous
year's net imports.
PURVODAYA IN STEEL SECTOR

GS-III ECONOMY
Context
 Ministry of steel in partnership with Confederation this region, which will serve as a catalyst in the
of Indian Industry (CII) and Joint Plant transformation of Eastern India by developing a
Committee (JPC) is organized the Purvodaya- vibrant steel industry.
Accelerated Development of Eastern Region
through an Integrated Steel hub. About the scheme
 Purvodaya in the steel sector is aimed at driving
Potential of Eastern States in steel accelerated development of Eastern India through
manufacturing the establishment of an integrated steel hub.
 Eastern states of India (Odisha, Jharkhand,  The proposed Integrated Steel Hub will include
Chhattisgarh, West Bengal) and Northern part of Odisha, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, West Bengal
Andhra Pradesh collectively hold ~80% of the and Northern Andhra Pradesh, which would serve
country‟s iron ore, ~100% of coking coal and a as a torchbearer for socio-economic growth of
significant portion of chromite, bauxite and Eastern India.
dolomite reserves.  The objective of this hub would be to enable swift
 In addition to its rich mineral reserves, these states capacity addition and improve the overall
also have a significant locational advantage. There competitiveness of steel producers in terms of both
is a presence of major ports such as Paradip, cost and quality.
Haldia, Vizag, Kolkata, etc. with >30% of India‟s  The Integrated Steel Hub would focus on 3 key
major port capacity, 3 major National Waterways elements:
as well as strong road, rail connectivity to most  Capacity addition through easing the setup of
parts of the country. Greenfield steel plants
 In India‟s march towards a $5 trillion economy,  Development of steel clusters near integrated steel
the 5 Eastern states can play a major role where plants as well as demand centers.
the steel sector can become the catalyst.  Transformation of logistics and
 This Eastern belt has the potential to add more utilityinfrastructure, which would change the
than 75% of the country‟s incremental steel socio-economic landscape in the East.
capacity envisioned by the National Steel Policy. It  Benefits of this scheme
is expected that out of the 300 MT capacity by  Creation of such a world-class steel hub would
2030-31, over 200 MT can come from this region significantly contribute to Purvodaya by propelling
alone, driven by Industry 4.0. socio-economic development in the Eastern
 These States would march ahead on the region.
development index because of which the Ministry  Steel capacity addition as envisioned in the hub
of Steel has envisioned an Integrated Steel Hub in would entail capital investments of >70 Bn. $ and
89
lead to an incremental GSDP of >35 Bn. $ through  This would also help to build social infrastructure
steel alone. in the form of cities, schools, hospitals, skilling
 Growth of the steel industry through such a hub centers, etc. Such development, especially in the
would lead to significant employment most under-developed regions in these states, will
opportunities across the entire value chain, play a significant role in the overall socio-economic
creating over 2.5 Million jobs in the region. growth of Eastern India, thus reducing the
 Thecreation of world-class logistics and utility disparity between the East and other regions of the
infrastructure would also spur the development of country.
other manufacturing industries across sectors.
Steel sector in India  However, India‟s per capita steel consumption is

 India stood atsecond position in the very less as compared to other economies. Per
production of crude steel (Figure 9). It is also the capita finished steel consumption in 2018 was
third-largest consumer of the finished steel 224.5 kg for the world and 590.1 kg for China. The
after China and the USA. same for India was 74.1 kg in 2018.
National Steel Policy 2017

The policy intends to build crude steel capacity of 300 million tonnes (MT), production of 255 MT and a
robust finished steel per capita consumption of 158 Kgs by 2030 – 31.
The policy also envisages to domestically meet the entire demand of high grade automotive steel, electrical
steel, special steels and alloys for strategic applications and increase domestic availability of washed
coking coal so as to reduce import dependence on coking coal from about 85% to around 65% by 2030-31.
Potential of MSME steel sector has been recognized. Policy stipulates that adoption of energy efficient
technologies in the MSME steel sector will be encouraged to improve the overall productivity & reduce
energy intensity.
Key features of the NSP 2017:
1. Create self-sufficiency in steel production by providing policy support & guidance to private
manufacturers, MSME steel producers, CPSEs
2. Encourage adequate capacity additions,
3. Development of globally competitive steel manufacturing capabilities,
4. Cost-efficient production
5. Domestic availability of iron ore, coking coal & natural gas,
6. Facilitating foreign investment
7. Asset acquisitions of raw materials &
8. Enhancing the domestic steel demand.
90
YEAR-END REVIEW 2019 – MINISTRY OF POWER

GS-III ECONOMY
Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana

(SAUBHAGYA)
 Objective to achieve universal household
electrification by providing last-mile
connectivity and electricity connections to all
remaining un-electrified households in rural and
urban areas.
 Certain households identified via the Socio-
economic and Caste Census (SECC) of 2011 will be
eligible for free electricity connections, while
others will be charged Rs. 500.
 The beneficiary household will get One LED lights, prepaid mode would allow consumers to pay as per
one DC power plug. It also includes the Repair and their own financial convenience and electricity
Maintenance of Meter Only (R&M) for 5 years. consumption requirements.
 All States reported electrification of all willing
households under „Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Power Rail Koyla Availability through Supply
Ghar Yojana‟ (Saubhagya), except few households Harmony (PRAKASH) Portal
in Bastar region of Chhattisgarh.  The government has launched a portal for better
coordination among the ministries of power, coal
Deendayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana and Indian Railways for coal supply to power
(DDUGJY) plants.
 Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti  Benefits of Portal to the Stake-holders: On a single
Yojana (DDUGJY) is a Government of platform, the following information will be
India scheme designed to provide continuous available:
power supply to rural India. o Coal company: Stocks and the coal
 100% of villages across the country stand requirement at power stations
electrified as on 28thApril 2018. o Indian Railways: Actual coal available at the
siding.
Integrated Power Development Scheme o Power stations can plan future schedule by
(IPDS) knowing rakes in the pipeline and expected
 Integrated Power Development Scheme (IPDS) time of receipt
was launched for improving and augmenting the
distribution and sub-transmission systems in Unnat Jyoti by Affordable LEDs for All
Urban areas with a view to improving reliability. (UJALA)
 Significant progress has been made under the  The Unnat Jyoti by Affordable LEDs for All was
scheme in the current financial year with the launched in 2015 with a target of replacing 77
physical progress of IPDS reaching almost 80% in crores incandescent lamps with LED bulbs.
the system strengthening works.  Over 36.10 crores LED bulbs, 71.61 lakh LED tube
lights and 23.10 lakh energy efficient fans
Smart Metering distributed across the country.
 A smart meter is an electronic device that records  This has resulted in estimated energy savings of 47
consumption of electric energy and communicates billion kWh per year with an avoided peak demand
the information to the electricity supplier for of 9,590 MW, an estimated GHG emission
monitoring and billing. reduction of 38 million t CO2 per year and
 In the current financial year, the Ministry of Power estimated cost saving of INR 18,935 crores per
has issued guidelines to all States to convert all year in electricity bills of consumers.
existing consumer meters into Smart meters in
prepaid mode. Operation of Smart meters in
91
UNIVERSAL BASIC INCOME (UBI)

GS-III ECONOMY
What is UBI? automation,

 Basic living stipend or guaranteed annual  Developing countries view it as a measure to
income or universal demogrant is a periodic boost income and alleviate poverty.
payment delivered by government to all on an  Others have approached UBI as an alternative to
individual basis without means test or work existing subsidies and government spending. For
requirement. instance, the International Monetary Fund (IMF)
 The incomes would be: suggested that if subsidies were eliminated, the
 Unconditional: A basic income would vary with government could provide all Indians with 2,600
age, but with no other conditions. Everyone would (in 2011-12 prices) every month.
receive the same basic income, whatever their  Subsuming subsidies and providing UBI on direct
gender, employment status, family structure, benefit transfer basis will help to reduce the
contribution to society, housing costs, or anything corruption.
else.  Those who suffer domestic abuse become trapped
 Automatic: Someone's basic income would be in violent situations because they do not have the
automatically paid weekly, monthly into a bank means to leave them. UBI would unleash the
account, or similar. potential of countless people trapped by domestic
 Non-withdrawable: Basic incomes would not be violence.
means-tested. Whether someone's earnings  In 2010, the government of Iran ran a UBI trial,
increase, decrease or stay the same, their basic giving citizens transfers of 29 percent of the
income will not change. median income each month. Poverty and
 Individual: Basic incomes would be paid on an inequality were reduced, and there was no sign of
individual basis and not on the basis of a couple or large amounts of people leaving the labor market.
household. In fact, people used it to invest in their businesses,
 As a right: Every legal resident would receive a encouraging the growth of small enterprises.
basic income, subject to a minimum period of legal
residency and continuing residency for most of the Argument against the UBI
year.  Feasibility issue: Economic Survey proposal could
 In India, the idea of a national UBI emerged with be feasible if it is limited to just poor households -
the 2016-17 Economic Survey. but any larger version would quickly become too
expensive.
 Implementation challenge: However, even if states
Arguments for UBI and centers do find the finances, implementation
 Economic survey (2016-17) argues that, since it is is a challenge. For a start, identifying the poor in
universal all the exclusion errors will be India has been a perennial problem. Programs and
eliminated. subsidies designed for the poor often end up being
 In developed countries, UBI is being proposed to disproportionately used by the rich.
insulate citizens from the disruption of  Even if the poor are correctly identified, getting
money into their hands can be difficult. World
Bank‟s World Findex Survey found a big gap
between account ownership and usage in India.
Nearly 80% of adults owned an account in 2017
but almost half of these accounts were inactive.
Way Forward
 UBI in its true sense would be very difficult to
implement due to the cost constraints.
However, „quasi‟ UBI, as laid out in the economic
survey proposing 7,620 per year to 75% of the
population maybe feasible.
 The government should study further about the
possibilities and challenges of the same to proceed
further with any decisions.
92
2021 CENSUS OF INDIA

GS-III ECONOMY
Context for house listing with household-specific

 The 2021 Census of India, also the 16th Indian information.
Census, will be taken in 2021. o The second phase, which will begin from
February 2021, the questions will be
About 2021 census individual specific.
 For the 16th Indian census, the government is  Now it has been decided to update the National
considering enumeration based on a list of Other Population Register along with the Houselisting
Backward Castes (OBCs)notified by each state. phase of Census 2021. No documents would be
 Electronic survey: In April 2019, a data user asked by the enumerators for the NPR exercise.
conference was held and it was announced that
330,000 enumerators will be enlisted and that Census of India
they would be encouraged to use their own  Census in India has been undertaken every 10
smartphones, although a paper option will also be years, beginning in 1872 under British Viceroy
available, which the enumerators will then need to Lord Mayo.
submit electronically.  The first complete census was taken in 1881.
 There will be a special app for census developed by  Post-Independence, it has been conducted by the
the government, which the officers can use by Registrar General and Census
downloading on their mobile phones. Commissioner of India under the Ministry
 The Census for 2021 will be held in two phases. of Home Affairs.
o In the first phase, which begins from April 1 to  All the censuses since 1951 were conducted under
September 30, 2020, the data will be compiled the 1948 Census of India Act.
COMPETITION COMMISSION OF INDIA

GS-III ECONOMY
Competition Commission of India
Context
 Competition Commission of India is a statutory
 The Competition Commission of India (CCI)
body of the Government of India.
ordered its Director-General to probe Amazon and
 The commission is responsible for enforcing “The
Walmart-owned Flipkart for alleged „deep
Competition Act, 2002” throughout India and to
discounting’, „preferential listing’ and other
prevent activities that have an appreciable adverse
unfair trade practices.
effect on competition in India.
What is the issue all about?  Headquarters : New Delhi
 Amazon and Flipkart are accused of offering deep  CCI consists of a Chairperson and 6 Members
discounts on products to buyers through only a appointed by the Central Government.
select few „preferred sellers‟.  It is the duty of the Commission to eliminate
 Not all sellers on the platforms are handed this practices having an adverse effect on competition,
way, hence denying them equal opportunity of promote and sustain competition, protect the
higher sales. interests of consumers and ensure freedom of
trade in the markets of India.
 The online retailers are also accused of tweaking
their search algorithms, which results in their  The Commission is also required to give an
„preferred sellers‟ appearing on top of the websites opinion on competition issues on a reference
and thus having a brighter chance of being chosen received from a statutory authority established
by the buyer. under any law and to undertake competition
advocacy, create public awareness and impart
training on competition issues.
93
MAKE IN INDIA
GS-III ECONOMY
About Make in India Scheme

 It is a type of Swadeshi movement covering 25 of the comparative advantages of the domestic
sectors of the Indian economy. economy
 It was launched by the Government of India to  Given the uncertainties of the global economy and
encourage companies to manufacture their ever-rising trade protectionism, the initiative was
products in India. spectacularly ill-timed.
 It set an ambitious goal of making India a global  The skill level of Indians was found to be not in
manufacturing hub. line with major manufacturing requirements.
 To achieve this goal, targets were identified and  The infrastructure of the manufacturing industry is
policies outlined. not good enough to compete with India‟s
 The three major objectives were: counterpart.
i. To increase the manufacturing sector‟s growth rate
to 12-14% per annum in order to increase the Way Forward
sector‟s share in the economy;  The manufacturing sector is very essential for the
ii. To create 100 million additional manufacturing inclusive growth of the country as it has the
jobs in the economy by 2022; and potential to create enormous jobs.
iii. To ensure that the manufacturing sector‟s  With the current level skill sets India should try to
contribution to GDP is increased to 25% by 2022 become the hub of assembly of the export product
(revised to 2025) from 16%. as explained in the recent economic survey.
 The policy approach was to create a conducive  By integrating “Assemble in India for the world”
environment for investments, develop modern and into Make in India, India can raise its export
efficient infrastructure, and open up new sectors market share to about 3.5 percent by 2025 and 6
for foreign capital. percent by 2030. This will create 4 crores well-paid
jobs by 2025 and 8 crores by 2030.
Why Make in India is called a failure?
 With regard to output growth, the monthly index
of industrial production pertaining to FACT-FINDER
manufacturing has registered double-digit growth
rates only on two occasions during the period of
April 2012 to November 2019.
 Labor reforms and policy reforms that are
fundamental for the success of the Make In India
campaign have not yet been implemented.
 Make in India can be called as the under-prepared
policy. A large number of projects initiated without
sufficient preparedness leading the stalling of the
majority of the projects.
 It set out too ambitious growth rates for the
manufacturing sector to achieve. An annual growth
rate of 12-14% is well beyond the capacity of the
industrial sector. Historically India has not
achieved it and to expect to build capabilities for
such a quantum jump is perhaps an enormous
overestimation of the implementation capacity of
the government
 The initiative brought in too many sectors into its
fold. This led to a loss of policy focus. Further, it
was seen as a policy devoid of any understanding
94
VYOM MITRA
GS-III SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
Context
 The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO)
has created its very own space robot called 'Vyom
Mitra'.
About the lady robot

 Vyom Mitra means – A friend in the sky.
 The space robot is a 'half-humanoid'.
 It is designed at ISRO's Inertial Systems Unit in
Thiruvananthapuram.
What is it called half-humanoid?

 Vyom-mitra is also called a half-humanoid since
she will only have a head, two hands and a torso,
and will not have lower limbs.
 The robot will test systems for the survival and safe
 Like any robot, a humanoid‘s functions are
travel of the first Indian astronaut in 2022.
determined by the computer systems to which it is
connected. What are the tasks that Vyommitra will
 Artificial intelligence technologies are extended in perform in space?
a humanoid to perform simple functions like-  Vyom-Mitra is programmed to behave and
walking, moving things, communicating and respond to situations just like humans.
obeying commands.  She will perform ECLSS [environment control
and life support systems] functions.
Why did ISRO develop it?
 Her functions include:
 Vyom Mitra will travel to space as a part of the
 Monitoring biological parameters,
ISRO‘s 2022 Gaganyan mission.
 Performing life support operations,
 Gaganyaan is India‘s manned space mission,
 Recognising astronauts and converse with
which the ISRO aims to launch by December 2022.
them.
The project aims at sending the astronauts to
 Checking the systems in the crew module in
a lower orbit of the earth.
situ, including temperature, pressure levels
 Vyom Mitra will be sent in a space capsule in and oxygen availability.
December 2020 itself to test the efficacy of its  Assisting ISRO in analyzing the problems with
GSLV Mk III rocket to transport a human to the capsule
space and back.  Staying in the outer space for further research.
 Responding to directions from the ground
station.
95
GOLDILOCKS ZONE
Context
 A NASA satellite has discovered an Earth-sized
world called TOI 7020d within its star‘s
―habitable‖ zone.
 "TOI 700 d," is about 100 light years away from
Earth.
What is Goldilocks Zone?

 The Goldilocks Zone refers to the habitable zone
around a star where the temperature is just right -
not too hot and not too cold - for liquid water to
exist on a planet.
 Proxima Centauri b, located about 4.2 light-years
 Earth is in the habitable zone of the Sun.
from Earth in the constellation of Centaurus, is the
 There is a critical size below which a planet can
nearest known exoplanet and is orbiting in the
never be habitable.
habitable zone of its star.
 The critical size is about 2.7 percent the mass of
Earth. If an object is smaller than 2.7 percent the Why study Habitable Zone?
mass of Earth, its atmosphere will escape.  The nature of the Habitable Zone and the objects
 There could be as many as 40 billion Earth-sized within it may be instrumental in determining the
planets orbiting in the habitable zones of Sun-like scope and distribution of planets capable of
stars and red dwarfs in the Milky Way. (Keplar supporting Earth-like extra-terrestrial life and
Data) intelligence.
LUNAR ECLIPSE
Context The region of complete shadow is called the

 Recently, India witnessed lunar eclipse. umbra and the region of diffuse shadow is
called the penumbra.
Lunar Eclipse
 A lunar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes
directly behind Earth and into its shadow.
 This can occur only when the Sun, Earth and Moon
are exactly or very closely aligned (in syzygy); with
Earth between the other two.
 A lunar eclipse can occur only on the night of a full
moon. The type and length of a lunar eclipse
depend on the Moon's proximity to either node of
its orbit.
Types of Lunar Eclipse

 There are three types of lunar eclipses:
 Total lunar eclipse
 Partial lunar eclipse and
 Penumbral lunar eclipse.
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Total lunar eclipse, only a part of Moon, leaving the other part visible.
 Total lunar eclipse happens when the Earth comes This happens when the three bodies are not
between the Sun and the Moon, ―completely‖ precisely aligned.
covering the Moon with its shadow. This happens
when the three celestial bodies are aligned to make Penumbral lunar eclipse.
a line. The Moon can also turn red during a total  Penumbral lunar eclipse happens when the Earth
lunar eclipse, earning it the nickname of Blood comes between the Sun and the Moon, and the
Moon. outer part of the planet casts a faint shadow on the
Moon. This happens when the three bodies are
Partial lunar eclipse imperfectly aligned and usually this eclipse is
 Partial lunar eclipse takes place when the Earth mistaken as a full moon.
comes between the Sun and the Moon, but covers
ARTIFICIAL HUMAN
Context
 A Samsung subsidiary named STAR Labs has
unveiled
What is an artificial human?

 An artificial human is an Artificially Intelligent
(AI)-powered virtual being that look and behave
like real humans.
What are Neons?

 NEONs are computationally created virtual
humans — the word derives from NEO (new) +
humaN.  Neons are able to move, express themselves and
 Unlike artificially intelligent (AI) assistants like speak. They can also remember and learn things
Siri or Alexa, these computationally created beings about their user, and speak in any language.
are not programmed to answer users' questions  They react in less than a few milliseconds when a
and demands. question is asked in real-time.
 Instead, they are designed to converse and
sympathise "like real people" in order to act as How could Neons be used?
 In future, people would be able to license or
lifelike companions.
subscribe to Neon.
Technology behind Neons  Different virtual humans would be able to offer
 The technology powering the Neons is called Core different services such as a customer service
R3, which stands for "reality," "real-time" and advisor, a financial advisor, healthcare provider
etc.
"responsive",
 With further developments, they could work as
 CORE R3 is ―extensively trained‖ on how humans television presenters, spokespeople or actors.
look, behave and interact.  Alternatively, they could simply act as companions
or friends.
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HOMO ERECTUS
Context
 A New research shows that Homo erectus, an
ancestor of human beings, lived as recently as
108,000 to 117,000 years ago in Ngandong, on the
Indonesian island of Java.
Homo erectus
 Homo erectus is an extinct species of the human
genus (Homo) and an ancestor of modern humans
(Homo sapiens).
 Homo erectus arose in Africa about 2 million years
ago, and then dispersed throughout Asia and
perhaps Europe.
 By about 400,000 years ago, they largely
disappeared.
 The date range for the last known Homo erectus in
Ngandong is 108,000 to 117,000 years ago.
 Around that same time, modern humans were
roaming in Africa, and Neanderthals lived in
Europe.
BHUVAN PANCHAYAT 3.0

Context  Taking advantage of information and

 Recently, Indian Space Research Organisation communication technology, the Bhuvan
(ISRO) launched the Bhuvan Panchayats web Panchayats web portal can be used for
portal's version 3.0. visualization, planning and monitoring of schemes
 The launch is part of the advanced Space-based at Panchayats levels.
Information Supportfor Decentralized  The project will last for at least two years.
Planning (SISDP) project.
How will the project cater to rural
Aim development?
 For better planning and monitoring of government  Decentralized Planning: ―Bhuvan Panchayats‖
projects. is facilitating decentralized planning at grassroots
level. E.g.: It is possible for rural planners to plan
Highlights of Bhuvan Panchayats 3.0 and locate a healthcare unit, water harvesting,
 In thisproject,ISRO will collaborate with the Gram rural communication network even as they sit in
Panchayats members and stakeholders to Panchayats offices.
understand their data requirements.  Empowering the Panchayats:The mechanisms
 It is jointly implemented by the Ministry of would be adopted to empower the local bodies in
Panchayati Raj and Department of Space, utilizing the space technology in the form of
ISRO.  Simple-to-use maps,
 The portal uses high-resolution data from recent  Location based services through Navigation in
earth observation satellites and offers detailed Indian Constellation (NavIC) and
information to Panchayats about their key assets.
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 High-resolution space images based local tools  Bhuvan-Bhujal: Ground Water Prospects
to enable the Panchayats with modern Information System
technology for sustainable development.  School Bhuvan: An e-learning portal for the
 Technology and Governance: The Panchayati students
Raj institutions could effectively use space  ENVIS program of Ministry of
technology for planning, implementation, Environment, Forests & Climate Change
monitoring and management of resources,  Bhuvan Ganga: Enables people participation
including governance. in providing vital information for Clean Ganga
 Digital India: It can also prove to be an project
important component for ―Digital India‖ platform  Srishti-Drishti: An Integrated Watershed
for reaching digital thematic maps to about 2.56 Development Program.
Lakh Gram Panchayats in the country. FACT-FINDER
Bhuvan Portal
 Bhuvan (Sanskrit for Earth) is a Geoportal of
ISRO, allowing host of servicescovering -
 Visualization,
 Free data download,
 Thematic map display and analysis,
 Timely information on disaster, agriculture,
water resources, land cover and
 Project specific Geographic Information
System (GIS) applications.
 The portal was launched in 2009 and is available
in English, Hindi, Tamil and Telugu.
 Bhuvan, as a platform, is open and can be used by
a diverse user community such as Central and
State Governments Departments, Academia and
Industry. Few examples are:
POLYCRACK TECHNOLOGY
Context
 Indian Railways has commissioned India‘s first  Thus, the only emission comes from the
governmental waste to energy plant at combustion of gaseous fuels.
Bhubaneswar.  The emissions from the combustion of gaseous
 These waste to energy plant uses a patented fuels are much less than prescribed
technology called POLYCRACK. environmental norms.
 It is the fourth such plant in the country and is  This process will produce energy in the form of
first-of-its-kind in Indian Railways. light diesel oil, which is used to light furnaces.
How does it work? Advantages of Polycrack over the conventional

 It is a heterogeneous catalytic process, which approach of treating solid waste
converts multiple feedstocks into hydrocarbon  Pre-segregation of waste is not required to
liquid fuels, gas, carbon and water. reform the waste. Waste as collected can be
directly fed into Polycrack.
 Polycrack Plant can be fed with all types of plastic,  It has high tolerance to moisture hence drying of
petroleum sludge, un-segregated Municipal Solid waste is not required.
Waste with moisture up to 50%, e–waste, organic  Waste is processed and reformed within 24 hours.
waste etc.  It is an enclosed unit hence the working
 The process does not emit any hazardous environment is dust free.
 Excellent air quality surrounding the plant.
pollutants into the atmosphere.
 Biological decomposition is not allowed as the
 The combustible, non-condensed gases are re-used waste is treated as it is received.
for providing energy to the entire system.
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 The footprint of the plant is small hence, the area  Operates around 450 degrees, making it a low
required for installing the plant is less when temperature process when compared with other
compared with conventional method of processing. options.
 All constituents are converted into valuable energy  Safe and efficient system with built-in safety
thereby making it Zero Discharge Process. features enables even an unskilled user to operate
 Gas generated in the process is re-used to provide the machine with ease.
energy to the system thereby making it self-reliant  Low capital cost and low operating cost.
and also bring down the operating cost.  Fully automated system requires minimum
 There is no atmospheric emission during the manpower.
process unlike other conventional methods except
for combustion gases, which have pollutants less
than the prescribed norms, the world over.
In News: FAST
China recently, opened operations of the world's largest radio telescope,
which it will use for space research and help in the hunt for extraterrestrial life.
The Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical radio Telescope, nicknamed as
Tianyan is located in the Dawodang depression in southwest China. The Five-
hundred-meter Aperture Spherical Telescope, or FAST, is the size of 30 football
fields.
107TH INDIAN SCIENCE CONGRESS

Context and Engineering facilities Map, (I-STEM) Portal

 Recently, the 107th Indian Science Congress (ISC) was also launched.
was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi  The portal has been designed to be the gateway
at the University of Agricultural Sciences in for researchers to locate a specific type of
Bangalore. facility they require to conduct their
research and development work in India.
107th Indian Science Congress theme:
 ―Science and Technology: Rural Development‖ India’s global position in Science and
Technology sector
Objective  India currently stands at the 3rd position globally
 The 107th Indian Science Congress aims to bridge in the number of peer-reviewed science and
the gap between farmer and tech-developers. engineering publications.
 Many of the innovations have helped in enhancing  India is also growing at a rate of about 10 percent
market access, crop productivity and diversifying in the sector in comparison to the global average of
rural livelihood profiles. 4 percent.
 However, the gap between the farmers and  India also improved its ranking in the Innovation
innovators has resulted in only partial exploration Index with its 52nd rank this time.
of the benefits.
Indian Science Congress Association (ISCA)
Significance  Indian Science Congress Association (ISCA) is a
 The 107th Indian Science Congress will provide the premier scientific organisation of India with
desired platform to the farmers who introduced headquarters at Kolkata, West Bengal.
innovations in agriculture.  The association started in the year 1914 in Kolkata
and it meets annually in the first week of January.
I-STEM portal launch
 During the inauguration of the 107th Indian It has a membership of more than 30,000
Science Congress, the Indian Science Technology scientists.
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 The first Indian Science Congress was held in 1914 Objectives

at the Asiatic Society in Calcutta. The Association was formed with the following
objectives:
 Several prominent Indian and foreign scientists,
 To advance and promote the cause of science
including Nobel laureates, attend and speak the in India;
congress.  To hold an annual congress at a suitable place
in India;
 The Indian Science Congress Association (ISCA)
 To publish such proceedings, journals,
owes its origin to the initiative of two British transactions and other publications as may be
chemists, namely, Professor J. L. Simonsen and considered desirable;
 To secure and manage funds and endowments
Professor P. S. MacMahon.
for the promotion of Science.
SUPER FAB LAB

What is in news?  In Afghanistan, people are fashioning customized

 India's first Super Fab Lab was recently prosthetic limbs.
inaugurated in Kerala.  In South Africa a government and business,
 The lab is built in collaboration with backed project is creating simple internet
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). connected computers that hook up to televisions
and cost just ten dollars each.
Fab Labs
 FabLab are digital fabrication laboratories The network
set up to inspire people and entrepreneurs to turn  A global network of over 150 Fab Labs now exists,
their ideas into new products by giving them connecting people, communities and businesses
access to advanced digital manufacturing across the world.
technology.  This enables them to collaborate, problem solve
 A fab lab is typically equipped with an array of and brainstorm ideas.
computer-controlled tools with the aim to make
"almost anything". The potential of Fab Labs
 While FabLab have yet to compete with mass
Examples production, they have already shown the potential
 Shepherds in Norway have used their FabLab to to empower individuals to create smart devices for
create a system for tracking sheep using their themselves.
mobile phones.  These devices can be tailored to local needs in
 In Ghana, people have made an innovative truck ways that are not practical or economical using
Refrigeration system powered by the vehicle‘s own mass production.
exhaust gases.
GSAT 30
What is in news?
 Recently, ISROlaunched GSAT 30 satellite.  It will be a replacement for INSAT 4A launched in
 GSAT-30 is an Indian geostationary 2005.
communications satellite for DTH, Television  The satellite was launched on an Ariane-5ECA
uplink and VSAT services. launch vehicle.
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 INSAT-4A was a communication satellite intended  The C band is a portion of the electromagnetic
for providing high quality television, spectrum in the microwave range of frequencies
telecommunication, broadcasting services. It was ranging from 4.0 to 8.0 gigahertz The C band is
the first satellite to be launched in the INSAT-4 used for many satellite communications
series.INSAT-4A was the first one in the INSAT-4 transmissions, some Wi-Fi devices, some cordless
Satellites series, providing services in the Ku and telephones as well as some surveillance and
C band frequency bands. weather radar systems.
 The Ku band is the portion of the electromagnetic  Ariane 5 is a European heavy-lift launch vehicle
spectrum in the microwave range of frequencies designed by the French government space agency.
from 12 to 18 gigahertz (GHz). It is used to deliver payloads into geostationary
transfer orbit (GTO) or low Earth orbit (LEO).
INTERNATIONAL SUMMIT ON WOMEN IN STEM

Context Aim
 Recently an International Summit on Women in  To boost the participation of women in science,
STEM–―Visualizing the Future: New Skylines‖ was technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields
organized. for the development of scientific careers.
Who organized it? Highlights

 Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science  The summit provided a good platform for young
& Technology. students and researchers to interact, develop ideas,
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and generate a future action plan for making a  These include jobs that involve the use of
career in STEM fields. technologies such as automation, robotics, data
science and Artificial Intelligence.
What is the scenario?  Without adequate knowledge, female employees
 As per World Economic Forum Report, only 14.3%
will find it difficult to adapt to the future
of science researchers in India are women.
workplace.
 In comparison, several West Asian countries have
 Some of the highest-paying jobs in the word today
far better representation of women in STEM.
are in the technology space.
Bahrain, for example, has roughly 41.3% women
 Only 28% of the students enrolling in higher
doing some kind of research in science. education in ICT are women. The skill and pay gap
will keep on widening if the situation persists. A
STEM and gender biases sheer loss to the economy.
 The problem of women‘s underrepresentation in  To foster 21st-century skills such as analytical and
STEM has its roots in socio-cultural as well as conceptual thinking and creative problem solving.
economic factors.
Factors responsible: Way ahead
 Practice of discouraging girls from pursuing  System interventions are necessary to encourage
secondary or college education in India. more girls to take up STEM education.
 Schemes initiated by the government such as
 A significant proportion of those who study
Vigyan Jyoti, Inspire – MANAK, Atal
drop out on the pretext of marriage. Tinkering Labs, and Skill Indiaare a welcome
 Many are not encouraged taking up careers in step.
science and technology.  It is important to create an enabling environment
 Stereotyping women as caregivers and within schools to encourage girls to break the
homemakers has often restricted their fields of shackles and pursue a career in STEM.
study to teaching, nursing, fine arts.  The need of the hour is to positively affect the
mindset of all stakeholders –parents, teachers or
Why more girls need to choose STEM as a school administrators.
career?  Given the current situation, the importance of such
 It will enable girls to participate in the ‗jobs of the initiatives and the International Summit cannot be
future‘. overemphasized.
In News:Human Space Flight Centre (HSFC)

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has proposed Human Space Flight Centre (HSFC) at
Challakere in Chitradurga district of Karnataka. The facility is expected to become operational in 3 years.
ISRO aims to establish a self-contained training facility here. At present, astronaut‘spart of Gaganyaan Mission
(Human Spaceflight Programme of ISRO) is trained in Russia. The centre aims at bringing in all the features that
are provided by Russia and begin training astronauts within the country.
In News
National Science Foundation‘s Daniel K Inouye Solar Telescope has clicked its first picture that shows
'unprecedented' details of the surface of Sun.The images of Sun show a pattern of turbulent ―boiling‖ plasma that
covers the entire star.The hot solar plasma rises in the bright centres of ―cells,‖ cools, and then sinks below the
surface in dark lanes in a process known as convection. The magnetic eruptions on the sun can affect air travel,
disrupt satellite communications and bring down power grids, causing long-lasting blackouts and disabling
technologies such as GPS. Daniel K Inouye Solar Telescope will enable a new era of solar science and a leap
forward in understanding the sun and its impacts on our planet.
 The National Science Foundation is a United States government agency that supports fundamental
research and education in all the non-medical fields of science and engineering.
103
In News: CERBS- 4 A launched In News:

Researchers from the Indian
Institute of Technology (IIT)
Madras have developed a
technology that can be used to
The China–Brazil generate hydrogen fuel from
Earth Resources seawater, an advance that may
Satellite program contribute to a cleaner energy
(CBERS) is a future.
technological Hydrogen can be a good source
cooperation of energy for the future.
program between Combustion of hydrogen does
Brazil and China, not produce carbon dioxide,
unlike fossil fuels, making it a
which develops
'clean' source of energy.
and operates Earth Considering the increased levels
observation of air pollution globally, the
satellites. researchers are even targeting
running cars and bikes by
seawater using hydrogen power.
104
10 MORE WETLANDS IN INDIA GET RAMSAR

SITES TAG
GS-III ENVIRONMENT
India has added 10 more wetlands to sites protected by pangolin and Egyptian vulture and the
the Ramsar Convention. Out of whichone is in vulnerable leopard. It occupies a human-made
Maharashtra (its first Ramsar site), 3 are in Punjab reservoir constructed as part of the Bhakra-Nangal
and 6 are in Uttar Pradesh. Now the total number of
Project in 1961. The site is of historic importance as the
Ramsar sites in the country has increased to 37.
Indian and Chinese Prime Ministers formalized the
“Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence” there in 1954.
About Ramsar Convention
The Ramsar Convention of 1971, is one of the
oldest inter-governmental accord signed by Beas Conservation Reserve
members countries to preserve the ecological The Beas Conservation Reserve is a stretch of the Beas
character of their wetlands of international River located in the north-west of the State of Punjab.
importance. The River is dotted with islands, sand bars and braided
The aim of the Ramsar list is to develop and channels creating a complex environment supporting
maintain an international network of wetlands,
substantial biodiversity. More than 500 species of
which are important for the conservation of global
biological diversity and for sustaining human life birds are documented along this stretch, along with
through the maintenance of their ecosystem more than 90 fish species. The reserve also hosts the
components, processes and benefits. only known population in India of the endangered
Wetlands declared as Ramsar sites are protected Indus river dolphin. Further threatened species
under strict guidelines of the convention. include the endangered masher and hog deer as
well as thevulnerable smooth-coated otter.
The 10 new Ramsar sites are
Samaspur Bird Sanctuary
Nandur Madhmeshwar Bird Sanctuary
It is Maharashtra's first Ramsar site. The Site is a The Samaspur Bird sanctuary is a perennial lowland
mosaic of lakes, marshes and riparian forest on the marsh typical of the Indo-Gangetic Plains in of Uttar
Deccan Plateau. Construction of the Nandur Pradesh. Its six connected lakes are heavily reliant on
Madhameshwar Weir at the confluence of the monsoon rains. The sanctuary harbours threatened
Godavari and Kadwa Rivers helped create a species such as the endangered Egyptian vulture
thriving wetland and is a biodiversity hotspot. It also and Pallas’s fish eagle, and vulnerable common
provides sanctuary to critically endangered
pochard. At least 46 freshwater fish species use the
species including Deolali minnow, Indian
vulture and white-rumped vulture. wetland, with some migrating in from nearby rivers
during monsoon flood periods. The site provides food
Keshopur-Miani Community Reserve products and agricultural fodder, as well as
The Keshopur-Miani Community Reserve is located in maintaining this biodiversity.
the State of Punjab. The Reserve is a mosaic of natural
marshes, aquaculture ponds and agricultural wetlands Sandi Bird Sanctuary
maintained by the annual rainfall runoff. It is heavily Sandi Bird Sanctuary is a freshwater marsh in Uttar
human-influenced and includes a series of managed Pradesh. The wetland is typical of the Indo-Gangetic
fishponds and cultivated crops such lotus and plains and receives most of its water from monsoon
chestnut. This site is an example of wise use of a rains. Rich in aquatic plants, the site provides a
community-managed wetland, which provides productive habitat for waterfowl. It is home to
food for people and supports local common teal, red-crested pochard and
biodiversity.Threatened species present ferruginous duckand the vulnerable sarus
includethevulnerable common pochard and the crane.
endangered spotted pond turtle.
SarsaiNawarJheel
Nangal Wildlife Sanctuary Sarsai Nawar Jheel is a permanent marsh in Uttar
It is located in the Shiwalik foothills of Punjab is the Pradesh. This typical wetland of the Indo-Gangetic
highly eco-sensitive Nangal Wildlife Sanctuary, which floodplain is fed by precipitation run-off from the
supports abundant flora and fauna including South West monsoon rains. It is an example of co-
threatened species, such as the endangered Indian habitation of humans and wildlife farming practices
across most of the site play important roles in
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sustaining the water bird habitats. A particular offer exceptional habitats for water birds, providing
beneficiary is the vulnerable sarus crane with a both roosting and breeding sites. The sanctuary is a
population of 400 individuals making up the largest refuge for some of India‟s threatened vulture species
flock in the region. The site‟s name is derived from this the critically endangered white-rumped
large non-migratory crane. Other threatened species vulture and Indian vulture, and the
present include the critically endangered white- endangered Egyptian vulture have all been
rumped vulture and endangered woolly-necked recorded. It is also critical in the maintenance of
stork. hydrological regimes, ensuring groundwater recharge
and discharge.
The Saman Bird Sanctuary
It is a seasonal oxbow lake on the Ganges floodplain in Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary
Uttar Pradesh. It is heavily reliant on the arrival of the It is a shallow marshland in Uttar Pradesh, which is
south-westerly monsoon in July and August, which fed by monsoon rains and the Sarda Canal supplies
provides the vast majority of annual rainfall. The additional water. The sanctuary supports recreation
Sanctuary regularly provides refuge to over 50,000 and tourism activities as well as local biodiversity. It is
water birds and is particularly important as a a haven for birds, with 25,000 water birds regularly
wintering site for many migrants including the greylag recorded. Among these are globally threatened species
goose. Vulnerable species including sarus crane including the endangered Egyptian vultureand
and greater spotted eagleare also found. Pallas’s fish eagleas well as the vulnerable
woolly-necked stork.
ParvatiArga Bird Sanctuary
It is a permanent freshwater environment consisting of FACT-FINDER
two oxbow lakes in Uttar Pradesh. These wetlands
Importance of Wetlands
Wetlands provide a wide range of important
resources and ecosystem services such as food,
water, fibre, groundwater recharge, water
purification, flood moderation, erosion control and
climate regulation.
They are, in fact, are a major source of water and our
main supply of freshwater comes from an array of
wetlands which help soak rainfall and recharge
groundwater.
Government’s efforts
In the recent past, Ministry of Environment, Forest
& Climate Change has prepared a four pronged
strategy for the restoration of wetlands which
includes
o Preparing a baseline data,
o Wetland health cards,
o Enlisting wetland mitras and
o Preparing targeted integrated management
plans.
NMCG CONSERVES WETLANDS IN GANGA BASIN

GS-III ENVIRONMENT
Context
 The National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) initiative to conserve the wetlands in Ganga River
under its Namami Gange program has taken up an Basin.
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Primary objectives
Importance of these wetlands  It is to rejuvenate the river through increasing its
They are highly productive ecosystems that
base flow and aquifers recharge and conservation of
support rich biodiversity and provide a wide
wetlands, which shall ultimately facilitate in
range of ecosystem services such as nutrient
fulfilling the goal of 'AviralDhara' of Namami Gange
recycling, water supply, purification and
waste assimilation. program, which is to maintain the environmental
They play a crucial role in recharging flow in the river.
groundwater, flood and drought mitigation,
Way Forward
increase the base flow of rivers and help in
 Thus, gradually, ecosystem-based and community-
erosion control.
led models of rejuvenation of wetlands for
They are home to key flora and fauna, enhancing 'Aviralta' and 'Nirmalta' of the river and
including migratory species. water conservation in the Ganga basin are being
integrated into the Namami Gange Programme.
 These shall ultimately result in more sustainable
Present condition of these wetlands
results and are thus this integrated approach is a
 Some of these wetlands are threatened by step in the right direction and is the need of the
reclamation and degradation through drainage, hour.
landfill, and over-exploitation of their natural
resources.
 This has resulted in loss of biodiversity and
disruption in ecosystem services provided by the
wetlands.
GUIDELINES FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF

WETLANDS (CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT)
GS-III RULES, 2017
ENVIRONMENT
Context
 In order to conserve wetlands across the country,  They prohibits manufacture, handling, storage or
the centre has recently launched guidelines for disposal of construction and demolition waste,
hazardous substances, electronic waste, solid
implementation of Wetlands (Conservation and
waste dumping and discharge of untreated
Management) Rules, 2017. wastes and effluent from industries, cities, towns,
villages and other human settlements, within such
Salient features of the 2020 Guidelines bodies.
 They provide for setting up an authority in  They prohibit the conversion for non-
each state and Union Territory(to be headed by the wetland uses including encroachment of any
state or UT's environment minister) that will kind, besides setting up of any industry and
define strategies for conservation and wise use of expansion of existing industries within the notified
wetlands within their jurisdiction. wetlands.
 The authority will also include one expert each  The ministry has created a web portal on its
in the fields of wetland ecology, hydrology, website for sharing information regarding
fisheries, landscape planning and socioeconomics implementation of Wetlands Rules where the
to be nominated by the state government. central government, state governments and UTs
are required to upload all relevant information and
 The authority shall prepare within three months
documents pertaining to wetlands in their
from the date of publication of these rules jurisdiction.
 A list of all wetlands of the State or UT,
 Develop a comprehensive list of
activities to be regulated and permitted
within the notified wetlands and
 Their zone of influence.
 The authority shall undertake measures for
enhancing awareness among stakeholders
and local communities on values and functions of
wetland.
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THE ONE TRILLION TREES INITIATIVE OF WORLD

ECONOMIC FORUM (WEF)
GS-III ENVIRONMENT
What is in news?
 The WEF has launched the 'One Trillion Trees Impact of the successful implementation of
Initiative' to grow, restore and conserve 1 trillion this initiative
trees across the world by 2030.  This process of locking up carbon in the world‟s
 This is a global initiative and is aimed at grasslands and forests will help reduce about one-
third of the emissions required to be cut by 2030
 Slowing down climate change by removing large
amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere; to meet the Paris Agreement targets. The
 Restoring biodiversity; remaining emissions reductions could come from
 Uniting governments, non-governmental the energy, heavy industry and finance sectors.
organisations, businesses and individuals in mass-
Inspiration
scale nature restoration;
 The WEF launched the one trillion trees
 Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
initiative after gaining inspiration from a
Key actions to be undertaken globally presentation by Swiss ecologist Thomas Crowther
 To unite and promote reforestation efforts at the organization's meeting in 2019 wherein he
worldwide. had highlighted in that there is enough land to
 To mobilise funds and political support. accommodate 1.2 trillion more trees. He
 To plant, restore and conserve trees and forests. emphasized that that planting over 1 trillion
 To lock up carbon in the world‟s forests, additional trees will help cool the earth and reduce
grasslands and wetlands. atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations to
where they stood a century back.
Role of trees and forests for meeting global climate
goals This 1t.org initiative of the WEF has been designed
According to the 2019 Intergovernmental Panel on to support the UN Decade on Ecosystem
Climate Change (IPCC) Special Report, better land Restoration 2021-2030, led by United Nations
management can contribute to tackling climate Environment Programme (UNEP) and Food and
change, including through so called nature-based Agriculture Organization (FAO). 1t.org offers a
solutions (NBS) that lock up carbon in the world‟s platform for leading governments, businesses, civil
forests, grasslands and wetlands. NBS can provide up society and ecopreneurs committed to serving the
to one-third of the emissions reductions required by global trillion trees community.
2030 to meet the Paris Agreement targets.
The IPCC is however equally clear on NBS not being a
silver bullet and those reducing emission reductions
from all sectors is essential for meeting the targets of
the Paris Agreement. Indeed, to be effective climate
solutions, NBS such as forest restoration, forest
conservation, reforestation or natural regeneration
need to be part of a broader strategy to protect nature
and tackle climate change.
INDIA SUCCESSFULLY PHASES OUT MOST POTENT

OZONE-DEPLETING CHEMICAL
GS-III ENVIRONMENT
What is in news? About (HCFC)-141 b

 India has successfully achieved the complete phase It is a chemical used by foam manufacturing
enterprises.
out of Hydro Chloro Fluoro Carbon (HCFC)-141 b.
It is used mainly as a blowing agent in the
production of rigid polyurethane (PU) foams.
It is one of the most potent ozone depleting
chemical after Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).
108
 India has consciously chosen a path for phasing Twin environmental benefits ofHCFC Phase
out Ozone Depleting Substances (ODSs). out Management Plan (HPMP)
Alongside this, India has also been a pioneer in 1. Assisting the healing of the stratospheric ozone
some cases in the use of technologies, which are layer, and
non-Ozone Depleting and have a low Global 2. (ii)Towards the climate change mitigation due to
Warming Potential (GWP). transitioning of foam manufacturing enterprises at
this scale under HPMP to low global warming
 HCFC-141b isnot produced in India and all
potential alternative technologies.
domestic requirements of HCFC-141b so far had
been met through imports. Thus, in order to move Steps taken by government
towards environment friendly technologies, the  The government took timely and adequate steps to
Ministry of EFoCC prohibited import of HCFC- ensure minimal dislocation in the affected sectors
141b. The order was issued according to Ozone and for enhancing the capacities of Micro, Small,
Depleting substances (Regulation and Control) and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in converting
amendment rules, 2019. The rules were issued to low-GWP non-ODS technologies, training and
under Environment (Protection) act, 1986. awareness programmes on non ODS and low GWP
alternatives to HCFCs such as - Adequate tie-ups
HCFC Phase out Management Plan (HPMP) with system houses, laboratories for getting their
 Since, close to 50 % of the consumption of ozone material tested, etc, organizing study tours, field
depleting chemicals in the country being visits, etc.
attributable to HCFC-141 b in the foam sector, the  The Ozone Cell, MoEF&CC entered into a MOA
Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate with the Central Institute of Plastics Engineering &
Change adopted a structured approach to engage Technology, Department of Chemicals
with foam manufacturing enterprises for providing &Petrochemicals to facilitate the transition and
technical and financial assistance in order to hand-holding foam manufacturing enterprises and
transition to non-ODS and low GWP technologies provided-Technology workshops, field trials, on-
under HCFC Phase out Management Plan site demonstration and support, practical hands on
(HPMP). training and product validation will be provided.
 Because of these efforts, enterprises which have
 The results have been very encouraging as the
been already assisted for stabilizing alternative
complete phase out of HCFC 141 b from India is
technologies have been able to move towards
among the first at this scale among developing
adoption of alternatives at commercial scale.
countries under the Montreal
Montreal Protocol
The Montreal Protocol was signed by 190
countries in 1987 to phase out Ozone
Depleting Substances. In pursuance of the
targets under this protocol, India launched
a phase out plan in 2017. It is highly
commendable that India achieved the goal
in 2020
Protocol itself, which is far ahead of the
deadline of 2023 under the phase out plan.
NEW MOEF GUIDELINES FOR ELEPHANT DEATHS

FROM ANTHRAX
GS-III ENVIRONMENT
What is in News?
 The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate to anthrax was in Odisha‟s eastern range. This
Change (MoEF&CC) has formulated new standard incident had acted as the trigger to form this SOP.
operating procedure (SOP) for elephant deaths due
to anthrax. Key Recommendations
 Rules have been laid down for the constitution of a
 The deaths of elephants due to anthrax are not
team to oversee assessment and disposal of
widespread and the last death of an elephant due
109
elephant carcasses suspected to be infected with About Anthrax

anthrax.  Anthrax is an infectious zoonotic disease. In
 The overall authority responsible at the state level other words, it could be transferred from
under the SOP‟s provisions will be the chief animals to humans.
wildlife warden, in accordance with the Wildlife  It is primarily a disease of herbivorous animals
(Protection) Act, 1972. particularly cattle, sheep, goats, horses and
 The procedure will also have steps to assess mules.
whether the elephant died due to anthrax and the  The disease occurs naturally among herbivores
collection of biological samples.A map of anthrax through contaminated soil and feed.
hotspots is to be created as well.
 It occurs among omnivores and carnivores
through contaminated meat, bone meals or
other feeds; and among wild animals from
feeding on anthrax-infected carcasses.
 Infected animals shed the bacilli in terminal
haemorrhage or spilt blood at death. Anthrax
spores can persist in soil for many years.
EASING OF CRZ RULES FOR ‘BLUE FLAG’ BEACHES

GS-III ENVIRONMENT
 But, India‟s CRZ laws don‟t allow the construction

Context of such infrastructure on beaches and islands.
 The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate  Thus, to overcome this problem, the Environment
Change (MoEF&CC) has relaxed Coastal Ministry issued an Extraordinary Gazette
Regulation Zone (CRZ) rules that restrict Notification declaring a list of activities and
construction near beaches to help States construct facilities that would be permissible in the Coastal
infrastructure and enable them to receive „Blue Regulation Zone (CRZ) areas of certain beaches,
Flag‟ certification. which have been identified for obtaining the „Blue
Flag‟ certification.
About Blue Flag certification
 The „Blue Flag‟ beach is an „eco-tourism model‟ Important provisions
and marks out beaches as providing tourists and  The following activities and facilities would be
beachgoers clean and hygienic bathing water, permitted in the CRZ of the beaches, including
facilities/amenities, a safe and healthy Islands, subject to maintaining a minimum
environment, and sustainable development of the distance of 10 meters from the High Tide Line
area. (HTL)
 The certification is accorded by the Denmark- a. Portable toilet blocks, change rooms and
based Foundation for Environment Education, shower panels;
with 33 stringent criteria under four major heads b. Grey water treatment plant;
for the beaches, that is, c. Solid waste management plant;
o Environmental Education and Information d. Solar power plant;
o Bathing Water Quality e. Purified drinking water facility;
o Environment Management and f. Beach access pathways;
Conservation and g. Landscaping lighting;
o Safety and Services. h. Seating benches and sit-out umbrellas;
i. Outdoor play / fitness equipment;
Background
j. CCTV surveillance and control room;
 In 2019, the Ministry had selected 13 beaches in
k. First aid station;
India to compete for the certificate.
l. Cloak room facility;
 The Blue Flag certification, however, requires
beaches to create certain infrastructure tomeet m. Safety watch towers and beach safety
certain criteria of cleanliness and environmental equipment;
propriety.
110
n. Beach layout, environment information boards

and other signage; List of 13 earmarked beaches for Blue
Flag tag
o. Fencing, preferably vegetative; Ghoghala beach (Diu), Shivrajpur beach
p. Parking facilities; (Gujarat), Bhogave beach (Maharashtra),
q. Entry gate, tourist facilitation centre; and Padubidri and Kasarkod beaches
r. Other associated facilities or infrastructure, as (Karnataka), Kappad beach (Kerala),
per requirements of Blue Flag Certification. Kovalam beach (Tamil Nadu), Eden beach
 The notification also said that these activities and (Puducherry), Rushikonda beach (Andhra
facilities would be exempt from prior clearance Pradesh), Miramar beach (Goa), Golden
under the provisions of CRZ Notification, Island beach (Odisha), Radhanagar beach
Protection Zone Notification and Island Coastal (Andaman & Nicobar Islands) and
Regulation Zone Notifications respectively. Bangaram beach (Lakshadweep).
BHITARKANIKA CENSUS INCREASE IN NUMBER

OF SALTWATER CROCODILES
GS-III ENVIRONMENT
Context
 The population of the saltwater or estuarine  The Park is the second largest mangrove ecosystem
crocodile has increased in the water bodies of in India.
Odisha‟s Bhitarkanika National Park and its  The site's Gahirmatha beach is said to host the
nearby areas in Kendrapara district. There has largest known Olive Ridley sea turtle nesting beach
been an increase of 15 saltwater crocodiles and this in the world.
year‟s annual reptile census pegged their numbers  The site has the highest density of saltwater
at 1,757 as compared to 1,742 crocodiles in the crocodile in the country.
area.  It is a major breeding and wintering place for
 Under the Red List of Threatened Species of many resident and migratory water birds and is
the east coast's major nursery for brackish water
IUCN, salt water crocodile has the status of Least
and estuarine fish fauna.
Concern.
 The Fauna of the park includes saltwater crocodile,
About Bhitarkanika National Park black ibis, Indian Python, wild boar, cobra, darter,
 It is a Ramsar site since 2002. It was the second monitor lizard, etc.
area to get the status after Chilika Lake.
TURTLE REHAB CENTRE TO COME UP IN BIHAR

GS-III ENVIRONMENT
Context Choice of Bhagalpur

 A first-of-its-kind rehabilitation centre for  Bhagalpur was chosen as the site for setting u the
freshwater turtles was inaugurated in Bihar‟s rehabilitation centre due to the following reasons
Bhagalpur district. o The flow of water in the Ganga is ample.
o There are many sandbanks in the middle of the
Need river, which are ideal breeding ground for
 The need to build such a centre was felt after turtles.
several turtles were found severely wounded and
sick when rescued from smugglers by rescue Important role played by turtles
teams.Previously, rescued turtles used to be  According to environmentalists, the turtles play a
released into rivers without much treatment in the significant role in the river by
absence of any facility like the centre.Now, they  Scavenging dead organic materials and diseased
will be properly monitored before being released in fish
their natural habitat.  Controlling fish population as predators and
 Controlling aquatic plants and weeds.
111
 They are also indicators of healthy aquatic

ecosystems.
 According to a report jointly prepared by the
National Mission for Clean Ganga and Wildlife
Institute of India these species are now under
severe threats due to habitat fragmentation and
loss through dams and barrages, pollution, illegal
poaching, accidental drowning through fishing
nets and threats to their nesting habitats.
CHINESE PADDLEFISH BECOMES EXTINCT AFTER

LIVING FOR 200 MILLION YEARS
GS-III ENVIRONMENT
Context
 The Chinese paddlefish, native to the Yangtze,
Asia's longest river and one of the world's largest
species of freshwater species has been declared
extinct by Chinese scientists.
About Chinese Paddlefish

 It was also known as the Chinese swordfish and
sometimes called the “Panda of the Yangtze”.
 It was one of the world‟s largest freshwater fish
species.
 While hunting, the fish used their long snouts to
sense electrical activity and find their prey.
 It survived the mass extinction that killed off the
dinosaurs and many marine reptiles such as the
plesiosaurs.
 They have lived since the Lower Jurassic period,
but remained largely unchanged over their 200-
million-year existence. They eventually faced their
Threat to turtles from smugglers
biggest threat and the cause of their extinction
 The turtles have come under serious threat
humans.
primarily for two reasons
Reasons for their extinction  Food– Usually, soft-shell turtles are being
 Even though it was listed as a nationally protected frequently targeted for meat due to the
animal in the 1980s, overfishing in the 1970s took prevailing belief that it gives an energy boost
a toll on the creature‟s population. and keeps various diseases away.
 In 1981, the construction of the Gezhouba  Pet trade - Hard-shell turtles, especially
Dam split the paddlefish population in two, which spotted ones, are being poached for the pet
disrupted migration patterns and prevented trade. Such turtles are in high demand in
breeding upstream. South East Asia, China and Japan.
 The disruption it to become functionally extinct,
meaning the species lacked numbers to
meaningfully reproduce, by 1993.
Steps taken by China

 China announced a 10-year commercial fishing
ban after the country found an “overall decline” in
its endangered species.
 Over 300 zones along the Yangtze River will no
longer allow for the capturing and harvesting of
native species in an attempt to help the river‟s
biodiversity bounce back.
112
ONE MILLION SEABIRDS IN NORTH PACIFIC

OCEAN
GS-III ENVIRONMENT
Context  Between 2015 and 2016, 62,000 dead or dying

 Five years ago, tens of thousands of emaciated common murres washed up on Pacific shores from
seabirds washed ashore on the Pacific Coast. The California to Alaska.
scientists have recently deciphered the reason  Moreover, about two-thirds of the birds were killed
behind it to be a long-lived marine heat wave as adults, which was a substantial blow to
known as "the blob". breeding populations.
 The blob reduced the number of phytoplankton in
How the process unfolded? the water and increased the metabolism of
 In 2013, surface waters began to heat up off the cold-blooded critters such as zooplankton, small
Pacific coast, a phenomenon that became known forage fish and larger predatory fish like salmon
as "the blob."These warmer waters(the most and pollock.
powerful ocean heatwave that was ever recorded)  That means that predatory fish,which
continued until 2015. compete for similar food as the murres,
needed to eat more forage fish than usual to
 The waters warmed even further when a survive. This led to even lesser numbers of forage
powerful El Niño (another ocean-atmosphere fish available for the common murre.
phenomenon that causes a period of warming sea  As a result, many birds starved and died.
surface temperatures) arrived in 2015 and 2016.
 Because of the warm waters, anumber of How did we arrive at the estimate of one
species(such as tufted puffins, sea lions, baleen million birds dying?
whales and Cassin's auklets)experienced mass  Not all of the birds that die at sea end up on
die-offs.But the largest sufferers were the beaches.The number of birds actually found dead
common murres. needs to be multiplied by at least seven times and
in some cases even as much as several hundred
 About the Common Murres times to find the minimum estimate of the total
 The common murre is a black and white seabird numbers dead. Thus, even the “one million dead
that and can dive hundreds of meters deep into seabirds” might actually be a conservative guess.
water in search of prey.
 These seabirds feast on tiny "forage fish" such as Way Forward
sardines, herring and anchovies, and need to  The North Pacific common murre wreck was
consume about half of their body weight every day unprecedented for the sheer numbers of birds
in order to survive.But a couple of years ago, their killed, and the vast region over which it occurred.
feast disappeared. However, the marine heatwave that caused it may
be just the tip of the iceberg of what is to come for
seabirds around the world as climate change
accelerates.
The appearance of
unusually high
numbers of dead birds
washed up on the
shoreline is referred to
as a “wreck”.
113
PALAU BANNED 'REEF TOXIC' SUN CREAMS

GS-III ENVIRONMENT
Context Other countries/states following this practice

 Palau, which is an island country in the Pacific  Following the best practices of Palau, Hawaii
Ocean, has become the first country to ban sun in US has also introduced such bans which
cream that is harmful to corals. The ban order comes into effect from 2021.
was passed in 2018 but was to be effective  The other states that have introduced such ban
from January 1, 2020. includes US Virgin Islands(effective from
March 2020) and the Dutch Caribbean island
Threats to coral reefs and marine life of Bonaire.
 The ingredients in the sun creams absorb UV
radiations and make corals susceptible to Banned ingredients
bleaching.  The country has banned 10 ingredients that
 Even low concentrations of sunscreen in water harm coral reefs.
can also reduce the growth of young coral. o It includes oxybenzone, ethyl paraben,
 These chemicals also inhibit fish reproduction Octinoxate, Butyl paraben, Octocrylene,
by interfering with their hormonal system. methyl benzylidene camphor, triclosan,
 The Oxybenzone present in sunscreen inhibits benzyl paraben, methyl paraben and
coral growth and has been found toxic to algae phenoxyethanol.
living within the coral reefs. o These ingredients are found in more than
half of the commonly used cosmetics.
CARBON DISCLOSURE PROJECT 2019

GS-III ENVIRONMENT
Context  58 Indian companies, 98 per cent of the 59 firms
 India has ranked 5th according to the Carbon surveyed between 2018 and 2019, have board-level
Disclosure Project 2019 report published by a oversight of climate-related issues.
non-profit organization Global Reporting Initiative
which ranks countries based on their corporate Way Forward
responsibilities of carbon reduction by surveying  This is a welcome sign that increasing climate
corporate commitments to science-based activism and the growing band of climate-
targets (SBT). conscious investors have ensured that almost all
boards of top responding Indian companies now
Salient findings of the report related to India have committees and members designated to
 The report shows India is now the fifth addressing climate risk
country(ahead of Germany and Sweden), and the
first developing economy with maximum number
of companies committing to SBT.
GLOBAL RISKS REPORT 2020

GS-III ENVIRONMENT
Context  It emphasised on the need for a multi-stakeholder

 The 15th edition of Global Risks Report 2020 approach to mitigating risks, especially climate-
released by the World Economic Forum. related risks.
114
 The report found that, for the first time in its 15-  Human-made environmental damage and
year history, the environment filled the top five disasters, including environmental crime, such as
places in the list of concerns likely to have a major oil spills and radioactive contamination.
impact over the next decade.  Major biodiversity loss and ecosystem collapse
with irreversible consequences for the
The top five risks in terms of likelihood in the environment, resulting in severely depleted
next 10 years were resources for humankind as well as industries.
 Extreme weather events with major damage to  Major natural disasters such as earthquakes,
property, infrastructure and loss of human life. tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, and geomagnetic
 Failure of climate-change mitigation and storms.
adaptation by governments and businesses.
Report
115
Suggestions
 Unless stakeholders adapt to “today‟s epochal  There is an urgent need to adapt faster to avoid the
power-shift” and geopolitical turbulence – while worst and irreversible impacts of climate change
still preparing for the future – time will run out to and to do more to protect the planet‟s biodiversity.
address some of the most pressing economic,  Systems-level thinking is required to confront
environmental and technological challenges. looming geopolitical and environmental risks, and
 Swift multi-stakeholder action is required quickly threats that may otherwise fall under the radar
to mitigate against the worst outcomes and build
resilience across communities and businesses.
COMPENSATORY AFFORESTATION IN USED-UP

COAL INDIA MINES
GS-III ENVIRONMENT
Context Environmental issues caused by

 The Union Ministries of Environment, Forest and mining
Climate Change (MoEF&CC) and of Coal (MoC) Erosion, formation of sinkholes, loss of
have decided that land reclaimed from exhausted biodiversity, and contamination of soil,
Coal India Ltd (CIL) mines will be used for groundwater and surface water by
CompensatoryAfforestation (CA). chemicals from mining processes.
 In this manner, mined out, non-forest land shall be
restored and biologically reclaimed. grassing mined areas so that biodiversity gets a
second chance in these scarred landscapes.
Basic idea behind this move
 Whenever forest land is diverted for non-forestry The court ordered the government to
purposes like mining or infrastructure  Include re-grassing of mined areas as a mandatory
development under the provisions of the Forest condition in every mining lease, environmental
(Conservation) Act, 1980, an equal area of non- clearance and mining plan across the country.
forest land or twice the area of degraded forest  The cost of re-grassing the mined area and
land is to be planted over as CA. The idea is to wherever damaged would be entirely borne by the
offset the loss of diverted forest cover. licence holder.
 The mandatory re-grassing would be in addition to
Related news the other conditions to restore biodiversity
 The Supreme Court has ordered that mining imposed on the licence holder in the mine closure
lease holders should be held responsible for re- plan.
116
The Supreme Court order reads as follows operations, undertake re-grassing the mining
 “…We are hereby directing the Union of India to area and any other area which may have been
impose a condition in the mining lease and a disturbed due to their mining activities and
similar condition in the environmental clearance restore the land to a condition which is fit for
and the mining plan to the effect that the mining growth of fodder, flora, fauna, etc…..”
lease holders shall, after ceasing mining
GREEN CREDIT SCHEME

GS-III ENVIRONMENT
Context
About the FAC
 The Forest Advisory Committee (FAC) has
The Forest Advisory Committee is a key
approved the Green Credit Scheme that could
statutory body, which considers
allow “FORESTS” to be traded as a questions on the diversion of forest land
COMMODITY. for non-forest uses such as mining,
 Upon implementation, it shall allow the Forest industrial projects, townships and advises
Department to outsource one of its responsibilities the government on the issue of granting
of reforesting to non-government agencies. forest clearances.
It comprises official members, and three
independent experts, who are the non-
Current system official members.
The industry needs to make good the loss of forest It was constituted by the Forest
by finding appropriate non-forest land equal to (Conservation) Act 1980 and comes
that which would be razed. under the Ministry of Environment,
It also must pay the State Forest Department the Forests & Climate Change (MoEF&CC).
current economic equivalent, called Net Present to the Forest Department and be recorded as forest
Value of the forest land. land.
After that it is responsibility of the Forest  It is called a Green „Credit‟ Scheme as the
Department to grow appropriate vegetation that, participating agency will be free to trade its asset
over time, would grow into forests. that is plantation, in parcels with project
proponents who need forest land.
Proposed features of the Green Credit Scheme Significance of the scheme

 It will allow agencies (they could be private  Such a scheme will encourage plantation by
companies, village forest communities, etc.) individuals outside the traditional forest area and
to identify land and begin growing plantations. will help in meeting international commitments
 After three years, they would be eligible to be such as Sustainable Development Goals and
considered as compensatory forest land if they met Nationally Determined Contributions.
the Forest Department‟s criteria.
 An industry needing forest land could then Potential drawbacks of the scheme
approach the agency and pay it for parcels of such  It does not solve the core problems of
forested land, and this would then be transferred compensatory afforestation.
 It creates problems of privatising multi-use forest
areas as monoculture plantation plots.
 Forests are treated as a mere commodity without
any social or ecological character.
117
LINKING SANITATION, SOLID WASTE TO

AGRICULTURE
GS-III ENVIRONMENT
Context defecation free in October 2019, the next big

 The NITI Aayog has advised states to explore concern was poor infrastructure for faecal
the possibility of extracting essential nutrients sludge management.
like phosphorus, nitrogen, potassium and 5. Creation of Circular economy in sanitation -
carbon from human excreta and replace safe collection, treatment and reuse of faecal
fertilisers used in agriculture with them. sludge.
Potential benefits Lessons from successful model

1. Rich source of nutrients Faecal sludge is a rich  A successful model in the Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu
source of nitrogen (N), phosphorous (P) and had been cited where faecal sludge was being
potassium (K), the three essential nutrients distributed among farmers at a subsidised
used in crop production across the world. price after being turned into co-compost, to be
2. Reduce reliance on importsIndia relies heavily used in agriculture in place of fertilisers.
on imports to meet its demand for  The project is run by Rural Development
phosphorous and potassium, which are now Organisation Trust, a Tamil Nadu-based non-
limited and depleting further.Intelligent use of profit.
faecal sludge, which is currently being  Positive Results from the Nilgiris experiment
disposed of indiscriminately, is an easy showed that
solution to meet the country‟s demand for  The co-compost improved soil quality and
these nutrients.  Helped in boosting crop production
3. Improved soil health Indiscriminate use of  Increase in yields and better quality produce
chemical fertilisers also reduces the soil‟s were reported.
health by killing microorganisms that nourish  All states were advised to consider such
it. models and contact the non-profits working in
4. Effective means for faecal sludge
the area to explore such a possibility in their
management When the country became open
jurisdictions.
AUSTRALIAN BUSHFIRES
GS-III ENVIRONMENT
Context
 Australia faced a devastating start to its fire season  Dry leaves, grass, shrubs, deadwood etc. are easily
in late 2019, and things swiftly got worse before combustible.
rains helped contain many of the worst fires in  Ignition happens naturally, from lightning strikes
February 2020. for example, or accidentally, from sources such as
cigarette stubs.
Reasons for the fires being unprecedented  Suitable speed and direction of wind helps spread
a forest fire faster.
 Although bushfires are common occurrences in
Australia during the summer season, but the scale
Special causes that contributed to Australian
and intensity this year had been extraordinary and bushfires
nearly 12 million acres burned by the fires.  Several record-breaking weather conditions are
 The three factors of very high temperatures, believed to have contributed to this unprecedented
extended drought period(driest spring on record)
wave of forest fires.
and strong winds (spreads the bushfires)
converged to create disastrous fire conditions.  2019 happened to be the warmest and driest
year for the country since 1900.
Common causes of forest fires  Daytime temperatures were, on an average, 2°C
 Forest fires are a routine occurrence across the higher than normal, while average rainfall for
world in hot and dry seasons. the country was 40% below normal.
 Heat and dryness are the key preconditions for strong winds can badly disorient them, and mass
the ignition and spread of forest fires. bird deaths in severe bushfires are
 The problem further got compounded by the common.Numerous dead birds including
presence of one of the strongest-ever positive rainbow lorikeets and yellow-tailed black-
Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) events. This year,
cockatoos washed up on the beach at Mallacoota
the eastern Indian Ocean had been unusually cold,
and that contributed to the rainfall deficiency over in Victoria.
Australia.
 Soil moisture levelsin the areas most affected
Damage lasts decades
by the fires were at historic lows.
 Fire impacts are deeply felt in the longer term.
 A rare stratospheric warming over
Many habitat features needed by wildlife, such as
Antarctica could have further contributed to the
tree and log hollows, nectar-bearing shrubs and a
unusual heat and dryness in Australia.
deep ground layer of fallen leaves, may not develop
for decades.
Impact of Australian Bushfires on  In a matter of weeks, the fires subverted decades of
wildlife and threatened species dedicated conservation efforts for many
threatened species.
Animals
 Koalas Way Forward
 Australia may declare Koalas as an “endangered”  Increasingly severe drought and extreme heat,
species after their population suffered associated with global warming, are the immediate
“extraordinary hit” in the bushfire crisis, which causes of these wildfires and their ferocity. To
destroyed 30% of their habitat across the country. prevent this fire-ravaged summer becoming the
The decision in this regard is still pending. new normal, drastic measures need to be taken to
tackle climate change.
Plants
 Many threatened plants are also affected in NSW,
fires around Batemans Bay have burnt some of the Indian Ocean Dipole
few sites known for the threatened Spring It is the difference in sea-surface
midge orchid. temperatures in the eastern and western
Indian Ocean, which either aids or cuts off
Birds moisture supply to Australia, depending on
 One might think birds and other fast-moving whether the western Indian Ocean is cooler
animals can easily escape fires. But smoke and or the eastern.
FACT-FINDER
119
AFSPA IN MANIPUR
GS-III SECURITY
Context
 Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh has said
the law and order situation in the State has
improved in recent years, but it is still not
conducive to repeal the Armed Forces (Special
Powers) Act.
AFSPA in Manipur
 Insurgency-related violence has decreased in the
State during the last three years. But still State will
wait for a better situation so that the AFSPA can be
repealed.  Counter terrorist operations often undertaken in
 It was imposed in Manipur in 1980 when the State good faith lead to a lot of collateral damage.
was a hotbed of insurgency.  Act makes no distinction between a peaceful
 Total of 233 insurgency-linked incidents were gathering an d a berserk mob.
reported in 2016, which came down to 167 in 2017  Decision of a govt to declare a particular area as
and 127 in 2018. disturbed cannot be challenged in court of
Special powers given under AFSPA law.
 Search, seizure or arrest of anyone or any premise  Violation of Article 14 (Equality before the law or
without a warrant. equal protection of the laws within the territory of
 No inquiry against the members of armed forces India) and Article 21 (Guarantees the protection of
for violation of human rights without the life and personal liberty to every individual and
permission of central govt. states).
 Gathering of more than 5 people can be dispersed
by armed forces using the force. (Peaceful or Arguments for retention of AFSPA
violent: non-mention of it).  Supreme Court view: AFSPA is not volatile of
 People residing in the AFSPA enacted areas need Indian constitution. Promulgation of AFSPA is
the permission of central govt in order to approach only carried out in circumstances when terror
Supreme Court for constitutional remedies under
groups are adversely affecting harmony in the
art 32.
society. Argument that AFSPA grants arbitrary
Provision of application and revocation powers to armed forces is an over exaggeration.
 Section (3) of the AFSPA Act empowers the  Misuse of assembly of people to foment trouble
governor of the state or Union territory to that AFSPA tries to address.
issue an official notification on The Gazette of  Even the provision of arrest and search under the
India, following which the centre has the act is as per the constitution. As the arrested
authority to send in armed forces for civilian aid. person has to be handed over to the civil police
 Once declared „disturbed‟, the region has to within a stipulated time frame.
maintain status quo for a minimum of three  The provision for approval from central govt is in
months, according to The Disturbed Areas (Special good faith and not for blanked immunity.
Courts) Act, 1976.
 Legal authority for army is necessary to fight
 The state governments, as in Tripura‟s case, can
terrorism.
suggest whether the Act is required to be enforced
or not.  Mere dilution of act can have serious repercussions
 But under Section (3) of the Act, their opinion can at an operational level and can result in loss of
still be overruled by the governor or the centre. morale among the security forces.
 A weak legal backing can strengthen the insurgent
Arguments for repealing AFSPA groups leading to frivolous allegations against the
 Increased militarisation of an area creates a military leadership who would have to appear
detrimental atmosphere that ends up creating more often in courts than in leading the counter
people protest against the state.
terrorist operations.
 Both state and non-state actors violate human
right in AFSPA controlled areas.
120
Opinions of expert committees  Act cant be imposed on a permanent basis. There

Santos hedge committee: should be the review after every 6 month.
 Suggested to make the law more humane and  Authorised officers should strictly follow dos and
security forces more accountable. don'ts.
B P Jeevan Reddy commission: to examine the
violence in north east. Way Forward
 It was harsh agaisnt AFSPA. afspa represents a  A democratic country cant provide blanket
system of hate, oppression and high headedness . immunity to armed forces. Military tribunals must
 It suggested repeal . act suo moto to take cognisance of any violation by
the armed forces.
 Make relevant changes in UAPA ( unlawful
activities prevention act 1967)  Local police force must be trained to deal with
insurgency and role of armed forces can be
 Make clear provisions w.r.t. powers of armed
minimised in order to provide support to local
forces.
police force.
 Establish grievance cells in each districts.
 Army has instituted a human rights cell in its
ARC 2nd structure. Its power needs to be enhanced in order
 Suggested to repeal because it is leading to the to deal with violation of human rights.
feeling of alienation.  While, bringing AFSPA in any region or
continuance of it, government must provide
Important judgement of SC on AFSPA : Naga critical benchmarks for continuation in writing.
people movement on human rights ,1997  AFSPA is a pre-requisite to provide peace and
harmony in the disturbed so that government
 Upheld the validity of law . could bring the developmental projects.
 Central govt can impose the law suo moto. Government must capitalise on AFSPA by
 However, there is no scope for arbitrary power to focussing through faster development of disturbed
declare any area as disturbed area subjected to areas.
judicial review.
AK-203 ASSAULT RIFLES

GS-III SECURITY
Context
 The Army is likely to sign a Memorandum of
Understanding (MoU) in a month for the
procurement of over 7.5 lakh AK-203 assault rifles,
which are to be manufactured locally by an India-
Russia joint venture (JV).
About the JV
 The rifles will be manufactured by the Indo-
Russian Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL) at Korwa
in Uttar Pradesh.
 The facility is being set up between the Ordnance
Factories Board (OFB) from the Indian side and
Rosoboron Exports and Kalashnikov on the
Russian side.
 The OFB owns 50.5% equity and Russian side
holds the remaining 49.5%.
Significance
 100% indigenisation of the rifle. Thus, will boost
the „Make in India” in Defense sector.
 Export of the rifles from IRRPL to other friendly
countries will help to earn dollars.
 It will be helpful to replace the indigenous INSAS
(Indian National Small Arms System) rifles in use
with a modern rifle.
121
GOCO MODEL IN ARMY

GS-III SECURITY
Context  The existing civilian manpower/workforce will have

 The Army has initiated the process of identifying to be absorbed by the selected Service Provider.
potential industry partners to implement the  The service provider should be an Indian registered
Government Owned Contractor Operated company with at least 10 years of working
(GOCO) model for its base workshops and experience in related domains.
ordnance depots intended to improve operational  It must have an average annual turnover of ₹50
efficiency. crore for each of the last three financial years.
Conditions in GOCO Model Tasks under GOCO model

 The GOCO model was one of the recommendations  It will include warehousing operations,
of the Lt. Gen. DB Shekatkar Committee. transportation of stores and area maintenance.
 The selected Service Provider will take over present  Repairs and overhaul of T-72 and T-90, guns,
infrastructure and related services from Central mortars and small arms, vehicles, communication
Ordnance Depot (COD) Kanpur on “as-it-is-and- systems, radars, air defence systems, armoured
where-it-is basis”. personnel carriers and manufacture of spares
 Maintenance of complete infrastructure will be (indigenisation) and overhaul of aviation rotables.
thereafter the responsibility of the service provider.
DEPARTMENT OF MILITARY AFFAIRS

GS-III SECURITY
Context Mandate of DMA

 The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has approved the  Promoting jointness in procurement
rules of business for the newly created Department  Training and staffing for the Services
of Military Affairs (DMA), headed by the Chief of  Facilitating a restructuring of the military
Defence Staff (CDS). commands for optimal utilisation of resources by
bringing about jointness in operations, including
Scope and administrative structure of DMA through establishment of joint/theatre commands
 It will have two Joint Secretaries, 13 Deputy  Promoting the use of indigenous equipment.
Secretaries, 25 Under Secretaries and 22 Section
officers. FACT-FINDER
 The training policy, most of the training
establishments and cadre management of the
Services would be under the purview of the DMA.
 Defence diplomacy of the neighbourhood countries
would also be under the CDS.
 Deputations to the training establishments, such
as the National Defence Academy, the Indian
Military Academy, the Officers Training Academy
and the Defence Services Staff College would also
be under the CDS.
Departments under the Ministry of Defense
 Department of Defence
 Department of Defence Production
 Department of Defence Research and
Development
 Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare.
 Department of Military Affairs (DMA)
122
FREE SPEECH ON INTERNET

GS-III SECURITY
Context
IT ministry draft rules
 In a landmark ruling earlier this month, India‟s
 Rules require platforms to act on government
Supreme Court held that citizens‟ right to freedom
demands in just 24 hours, with no mechanism to
of speech and rights to carry out business using the correct mistakes or clarify confusing orders.
internet are constitutionally protected.  The Rules also require platforms to build
“automated tools” to proactively police and remove
Supreme court verdict in Shreya Singhal case internet users‟ speech.
 Court defined key rules for the relationship  It is based on about the potential of technologies
between democratic governments and commercial like Artificial Intelligence.
internet platforms.
 The case called on courts and government agencies Challenges in automated filtering
— not companies like Google or Facebook — to  Software filters are no substitute for human
decide what speech and information violates the judgement — much less for proper review by
law and must be removed from public view on the courts or government authorities.
internet.  Filters cannot understand the context in which
 It clarified that competent public authorities, not material appears. for example — a terrorist
private platforms, should sit in judgement when recruitment video, we cannot expect it to
online speech is alleged to violate the law. understand or protect speech that uses the same
 In practice, this has allowed platforms to enforce material in important new contexts, like news
their terms of service, while ensuring that only reporting or scholarship.
courts and government authorities decide what  Filtering mandates raise equally serious concerns
speech and information is prohibited by law. about economic development and innovation.
 It corrected a serious problem with platforms‟  Start-ups and small platforms cannot afford to
incentives to remove lawful content from the invest $100 million in filtering technologies, as
internet. YouTube says it has done.
 Applying new removal obligations only to large
Issues with Platforms removing the content companies might ease some of these problems, but
 Claims of illegal speech are false, intended to would distort incentives for mid-sized and growing
manipulate platforms into silencing particular platforms.
speakers.
 Some seek to suppress important online speech,
like reporting on police brutality or scientific
research.
 Others come from businesses trying to harm their
competitors.
BRU SETTLEMENT
GS-III SECURITY
About Bru issues

Context
 Reangs or Brus are the second largest ethnic group
 A quadripartite pact of the Ministry of Home in Mizoram.
Affairs (MHA) with the State governments of  Their exodus in 1997 was spurred by violent
Tripura, Mizoram and leaders of Bru community clashes in Mamith subdivision, a Reang-
dominated area.
to permanently settle around 34,000 internally  The reason was creation of an autonomous
displaced Bru people in Tripura. council that was vehemently opposed by Mizo
groups.
123
 In Tripura, they are recognised as a Particularly Final Settlement

Vulnerable Tribal Group and are second most  The displaced people will be settled in Tripura
populous tribe after the Tripuris. permanently.
 Bru‟s leaders had demanded an Autonomous  Brus would get voting rights and tribal status in
District Council (ADC) for the tribe under the sixth Tripura.
Schedule of the Constitution in the western areas  Brus who settled in Mizoram would not have an
of Mizoram, where they were present in sizable option to come back.
numbers but Mizos formed the majority.  Community members would also get a one-time
o Autonomous district councils are formed to assistance of Rs. 4 lakh as fixed deposit.
 A 40/30 feet plot of land, an aid of Rs.
administer areas, which have been given autonomy
5,000/month for the next two years, free ration
within their respective states. Most of these and Rs. 1.5 lakh to build houses will be given to
autonomous district councils are located in North them.
East India but two are in the Ladakh region of  The Tripura government has identified land to
settle them.
Northern India. Presently, 10 Autonomous
 Funds to buy land would be jointly shared by the
Councils in Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram and Centre and the State government.
Tripura are formed by virtue of the Sixth Schedule
with other councils being formed as a result Challenges in settlement
 There is disparity between the package offered to
primary legislation.
Bru‟s repatriated to Mizoram and those who would
be permanently settled in Tripura after refusing to
Earlier settlement process be repatriated.
 In 2018, an agreement was signed and a package  The government should ensure that the repatriated
Bru families receive a rehabilitation package
was sanctioned.Brus were to be sent back to
equivalent to the one for settlement in Tripura.
Mizoram.But, they did not want to go back and  Each of the 6,000 repatriated Bru‟s received Rs
only 328 families moved back. 80,000 on their return to Mizoram and was
entitled to free rations for a year.
ASSAM’S NDFB FACTION CALLS TRUCE

GS-III SECURITY
Context
 Centre and Assam governments and the NDFB‟s the Bodos.
Saoraigwra faction, or NDFB-S, signed a tripartite
Bodos — the largest plains tribe in the
agreement in New Delhi for the cessation of
Northeast.
operations.  The truce was signed within a week of 50 members
of the NDFB-S crossing over to India from their
Details hideouts in Myanmar.
 The National Democratic Front of Bodoland is an  Bhutan used to be the base of the unified NDFB
armed separatist outfit, which seeks to obtain a until December 2003 when a joint India-Bhutan
sovereign Bodoland for the Bodo people. It is military operation flushed their cadre out.
designated as a terrorist organisation by the  The peace deal with NDFB-S leaves the ULFA-
Government of India. NDFB traces its origin to Independent as the only recognised extremist
Bodo Security Force, a militant group formed in group in Assam.
1986.
 The NDFB-S is the third and last faction of the
outfit that was formed more than three decades
Agofor establishing a sovereign homeland for
124
NATIONAL INVESTIGATION AGENCY (NIA)

GS-III SECURITY
Context the lines of the FBI in the United States, more

 Chhattisgarh has filed a suit against NIA Act. powerful than the CBI.
 It gives the NIA powers to take suo-motu
Chhattisgarh arguments cognisance of terror activities in any part of India.
 Chhattisgarh has filed its suit under Article 131 of  It allows registering a case, to enter any state
the constitution. without permission from the state government and
o Article 131 provides that whenever there is to investigate and arrest people.
a dispute between Centre and state  Section 6 allows agency to investigate the case
government or between two or more and any police officer of the State Government
states, then both the State government and investigating the offence will not proceed with the
Union government can approach the top investigation and will forthwith transmit the
court if the dispute involves a question of relevant documents and records to the Agency.
fact or law on which the existence of a  Section 7 deals with Power to transfer
legal right depends investigation to State Government.
 NIA Act is beyond “legislative competence of the  Section 8 allows power to investigate connected
Parliament”. cases.
 It is against the “federal spirit” of the Constitution.
Since police is a state subject, the Centre cannot be Amendment in the NIA act
given police powers. As “Police” was placed under  The amended Act empowered the agency to
List- II as the subject matter of State, with power investigate offences committed outside India,
to investigate, and equally significant fact that no subject to international treaties and domestic laws
such entry of “Police” or even any incidental or of other countries.
ancillary entry was provided in List 1 i.e., Centre  The NIA can investigate and prosecute offences
List. under the Acts specified in the Schedule of the NIA
 The provisions of this Act go against state Act. The Schedule originally had The Atomic
sovereignty. Energy Act, 1962, The Unlawful Activities
 The state has asked the Supreme Court to either (Prevention) Act, 1967, and the Anti-Hijacking Act,
declare the Act unconstitutional, or say that 1982, among other entries. The amendment has
Sections 6, 7, 8 and 10 of the Act are ultra vires. allowed the NIA to investigate, in addition, cases
 It has conferred “unfettered, discretionary and related to (i) human trafficking, (ii) counterfeit
arbitrary powers” on the Centre. currency or banknotes, (iii) manufacture or sale of
 The provisions of the Act leave no room of prohibited arms, (iv) cyber-terrorism, and (v)
coordination and pre-condition of consent, in any offences under the Explosive Substances Act, 1908.
form whatsoever.  The 2019 amendment allowed the central
government to designate Sessions Courts as
About NIA act Special Courts for the trial of scheduled offences
 The Act makes the National Investigation Agency under the Act.
the only truly federal agency in the country, along
K-4 BALLISTIC MISSILE

GS-III SECURITY
Context
 India successfully test-fires 3,500-km range Organisation (DRDO) from a submerged pontoon
submarine-launched ballistic missile K-4. off the Visakhapatnam coast carried out the test.
Details of the test  There are very few countries, which have managed
 The Defence Research and Development to achieve this technological breakthrough.
125
 Circular Error Probability (CEP) of the missile is Significance of INS Arihant

much more sophisticated than Chinese missiles.  India has formally declared
 These missiles will be the mainstay of the Arihant its nuclear triad stated in its
class of indigenous ballistic missile nuclear nuclear doctrine.
submarines (SSBN).  Given India‟s position of
 INS Arihant, the first and only operational SSBN, „No-First-Use‟ (NFU) in
is armed with K-15 Sagarika missiles with a range launching nuclear weapons,
of 750 km. the SSBN is the most
dependable platform for a
About INS Arihant second-strike.
 INS Arihant (SSBN 80) is the lead ship of India's  They are powered by
Arihant class of nuclear-powered ballistic missile nuclear reactors; these
submarines. submarines can stay
 The Arihant-class submarines are reported to be underwater indefinitely
based on the Akula-class submarine. without the adversary
 The vessel will be powered by an 83 megawatts detecting it.
pressurised light-water reactor with enriched  The other two platforms —
uranium fuel. land based and air launched are far easier to
 The consultancy for this project was provided by detect.
Russia. Nuclear Triad
 A nuclear triad is a three-pronged military force
structure that consists of land-launched nuclear
missiles, nuclear-missile-armed submarines and
strategic aircraft with nuclear bombs and missiles.
 These components are land-based intercontinental
ballistic missiles (ICBMs), submarine-launched
ballistic missiles (SLBMs), and strategic bombers.
 The purpose of having this three-branched nuclear
capability is to significantly reduce the possibility
that an enemy could destroy all of a nation's
nuclear forces in a first-strike attack.
SUBMARINE PROJECT
GS-III SECURITY
Defence Acquisition council meeting

Submarine project under Strategic Partnership
 Cleared Mazgaon Docks Ltd. (MDL) and Larsen &
Model
Toubro (L&T) as the Indian partners in the Navy‟s
 Aims to promote the role of the Indian industry in
tender for six advanced submarines under
defence manufacturing and build a defence
Project-75I worth over Rs. 45,000 crores.
industrial ecosystem.
 Approved deals worth Rs. 5,100 crore, which
 There are now two Indian SPs and five OEMs in
includes electronic warfare systems for the Army the short-listed pool.
to be developed by the Defence Research and  The OEMs are Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine
Engineering (South Korea), Naval Group (France),
Development Organisation (DRDO) and Navantia (Spain), Rosoboron export (Russia) and
manufactured by Indian industry. TKMS (Germany).
 Approved short-listing of Indian strategic partners
About Defence Acquisition Council
(SP).  Defence Acquisition council was set up by
 Approved potential original equipment government to expedite the defence procurement
manufacturers (OEMs) that would collaborate with process.
the SPs to construct six conventional submarines.  Defence minister heads DAC.
126
 Now, Chief of Defense Staffs is also a member  Decisions regarding Transfer of Technology
of DAC. under 'Buy & Make' category of acquisition
proposals;
The functions of the DAC include
 Field Trial evaluation.
 In-principle approval of 15 Year Long-Term
Integrated Perspective Plan for Defence
About Project-75i
Forces;
 The Project 75I-class submarine is a follow-on
 Accord of Acceptance of Necessity to
of the Project 75 Kalvari-class submarines for
acquisition proposals;
the Indian Navy.
 Categorization of the acquisition proposals
 Under this project, the Indian Navy intends to
relating to 'Buy', 'Buy & Make' and 'Make';
acquire six diesel-electric submarines, which
 Issues relating to Single vendor clearance;
will also feature advanced air-independent
 Decision regarding 'offset' provisions in propulsion systems to enable them to stay
respect of acquisition proposals above Rs. 300 submerged for longer duration and
crores; substantially increase their operational range.
 All six submarines are expected to be
constructed in Indian shipyards.
A-SAT MISSILE
GS-III SECURITY
Anti-Satellite (A-SAT) missile:

 Developed under Mission Shakti
 Developed by the Defence Research and
Development Organisation (DRDO)
 It plays a critical role in providing the
necessary strategic deterrence.
 The covert technology of „hit to kill‟ developed
for the first time in India for such applications
enables it to destroy an enemy satellite by
directly colliding with it with pinpoint
accuracy.
 The test made India the fourth country after
the US, Russia and China to have tested an
ASAT weapon.
 The ASAT test utilized a modified anti-ballistic
missile interceptor code-named Prithvi
Defence Vehicle Mark-II, which was developed
under Project XSV-1.
AGREEMENT WITH BODO GROUPS

GS-III SECURITY
Context Bodo Agreement

 The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), the Assam  Villages dominated by Bodos that were presently
government and Bodo groups signed an agreement outside the BTAD would be included and those
to redraw and rename the Bodoland Territorial with non-Bodo population would be excluded.
Area District (BTAD) in Assam, currently spread  Bodos living in the hills would be granted
over the four districts of Kokrajhar, Chirang, Baksa Scheduled Hill Tribe status.
and Udalguri.
127
 As of now, the agreement had not addressed the

issue of “citizenship or work permit” for non-
domiciles in the BTAD, to be renamed as the
Bodoland Territorial Region.
 Around 1,500 cadres of National Democratic Front
of Bodoland will be rehabilitated by Centre and
Assam Government.
 They will be assimilated in the mainstream and
will surrender on January 30.
Bodo demands
 They have been demanding a separate land for the
ethnic community since 1972.
 They have been demanding better social, political
and economic conditions since independence.
 The Bodos feel that they have been neglected and  However, since Bodo villages are not contiguous,
exploited by the Assamese. the demarcation of the jurisdiction of the BAC has
remained a problem.
Bodo Insurgency  Both the NDFB and the BLTF have condemned the
 The All Bodo Students Union (ABSU) was formed Bodo Accord, and have, since the mid-1990s, been
in 1967 to represent the Bodo cause. engaged in a campaign of violence directed against
 The BSF (Bodo Security Force), later renamed the other ethnic groups within „Bodo areas‟.
National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB),
resorted to terrorism in order to secure an Challenges of Bodo Agreement
„independent Bodo nation‟ north of the river  Even as the government takes a call on those
Brahmaputra. involved in heinous crimes, it has been an uphill
 A very large proportion of violent activities in the task to rehabilitate other cadres.
State, including killings, explosions, arson and  Peace in the region will depend on the relationship
attacks on police stations have been carried out by between Bodos and other non-bodos people
the NDFB. residing in the area.
 This is an organised and well-trained militant  The accord‟s success will lie in the stakeholders
group with a strength of about 900. working out a power-sharing arrangement in the
 Large-scale attacks were carried out against proposed BTR that privileges equity over
Santhaltribals in May 1996, displacing tens of hegemony.
thousands of people.
Early Accord
 An accord was signed on February 20, 1993,
between the Government of India, the Government
of Assam and Bodo leaders, creating the Bodoland
Autonomous Council (BAC) within Assam.
INDIAN CYBER CRIME COORDINATION CENTRE

GS-III SECURITY
INDIAN CYBER CRIME COORDINATION

CENTRE
 It has been set up to deal with all types of  National Cyber Crime Research and Innovation
cybercrimes in a comprehensive and coordinated Centre,
manner. It has seven components:  National Cyber Crime Forensic Laboratory
 National Cyber Crime Threat Analytics Unit, Ecosystem
 National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal,  Platform for Joint Cyber Crime Investigation
 National Cyber Crime Training Centre, Team.
 Cyber Crime Ecosystem Management Unit,
128
Working  All the cyber crime related complaints will be

 It is intended to screen communication metadata accessed by the concerned law enforcement
and co-ordinate the intelligence gathering agencies in the States and Union Territories for
activities of other agencies. taking action as per law.
 The National Cyber Coordination Centre is an e-  This portal can improve the capacity of the law
surveillance and cybersecurity project of enforcement agencies to investigate the cases and
Government of India. will improve success in prosecution.
 This portal also focuses on specific crimes like
National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal financial crime and social media related crimes
 It is a citizen-centric initiative that will enable like stalking, cyber bullying, etc.
citizens to report cyber crimes online through the
portal.
K9-VAJRA-T GUN
GS-III SECURITY
The Gun  Under the Centre's 'Make in India' initiative, L&T is

 The gun weighs 50 tonnes and can fire 47kg providing to Ministry of Defence of supply 100 units
bombs at 43-kilometre distant targets. of K9 Vajra-T 155 mm/52 calibre tracked self-
 It can also turn around at zero radius. propelled gun systems in 42months.
In News : Naseem-Al-Bahr:
 Naseem-Al-Bahr' (or sea breeze) is a naval exercise between the Indian Navy and the Royal Navy
of Oman RNO, being conducted since 1993.
 Indian Navy ships Beas and Subhadra are participating in it, with harbour phase in Goa followed by
sea phase off the Goa coast.
 The ships will conduct subject matter expert exchanges on professional topics.
 The harbour phase also includes sports activities between the Indian Navy and the RNO personnel,
reciprocal receptions and planning conferences for the sea phase of the exercise.
129
TERRORISM, STATE ACTION AND HUMAN RIGHTS

GS-IV ETHICS
Introduction
 Terrorism in its various hues is a serious problem security, a balance has to be struck between them.
plaguing the world now. India has also been in the
cross hairs of terrorists since long. To truly Administrative and Legal Fallout of
understand the meaning of terrorism, it needs to Encounters:
be differentiated from force and violence with  Operations of security forces against terrorists lead
which it is often associated. Force involving to varied outcomes. A terrorist may be captured
elements of compulsion or coercion is socially during surveillance or investigations. He may be
acceptable as when a judge awards a prison charged for serious offences. Then he becomes
sentence to a criminal. Violence, which involves entitled to fair trial, due process of law and all the
force and physical injury, is justified in individual judicial safeguards available to ordinary criminals.
self-defence and or when a nation fights its The standard of evidence for proving guilt is as
invaders. However,this justification does not hold high as in ordinary crimes. However, it is natural
ground for achieving political and social ends. that few witnesses would like to risk their lives by
deposing against the accused.
Attributes of Terrorism  Terrorists are not treated as enemy agents.
The main attributes of terrorism are: Although, terrorism is considered aform of
 A type of violence harming people and damaging warfare, terrorists are covered (asymmetrically)
property under ordinary law like other criminals.
 Specific use of violence for achieving social and  Often, encounters take place between security
political ends personnel and terrorists with casualties on both
 Creating great fear, alarm and a sense of panic sides. In these encounters, lives of soldiers are
among people greatly imperilled. They have to observe prescribed
 Reliance on random or arbitrary use of violence rules of engagement while fighting terrorists in
 Targeting innocent people or non-combatants encounters. If terrorists die, they cannot be tried.
 It is noteworthy that terrorism is warfare and aims However, at times, relatives of deceased terrorists
at undermining peoples‟ will and belief in their and activists file criminal charges like murder
way of living. Ordinary people usually condemn against men conducting operations. Existing laws
terrorism. This attitude is part of common sense. partly insulate government servants, including
Virtually no ethical theory supports terrorism. security personnel, from culpability for acts done
in good faith in line of duty.
Terrorism and State Action  Terrorist deaths in encounters create uproar in
 In India, terrorism has diverse origins and aims. media and activist community. Encounters are
Whatever its form, terrorism questions the often depicted as brutal suppressions of human
legitimacy of the state and its instrumentalities. It rights, security forces as cold blooded killers, and
regards security forces and law and order terrorists as innocent, harmless individuals or
machinery as oppressors and enemies. Terrorists martyrs fighting for a cause. Soldiers sometimes
engage security forces in war-like operations. err and deplorably kill innocents. Army should do
Naxalites espouse what they consider as economic its best to avoid such lapses. However, critics also
justice agenda. Terrorism in J&K is externally need to place themselves in the shoes of soldiers.
sponsored. In the north-east, it is linked to local In the fire and smoke of battle, in the heat of the
identities. moment, while staring death in face and
 After Independence, government took measures to remembering loved ones back home, soldiers may
tackle terrorism and secessionist movements with overreact. Only better training and experience in
almost universal support. There were occasional handling such situations can improve their
reports about the excesses of army and/or responses.
paramilitary forces in North-East. However,  However, many well-meaning individuals overlook
gradually disquiet arose in some quarters over the the grave risks, which soldiers face. They have a
means being used for handling terrorists. The right to self-defence even under strict moral codes.
roots of such disquiet and the groups, which They cannot be expected to fight with hands tied
articulate it, need to be considered. Some people behind their back. They face real time situations
feel that anti-terrorist operations violate liberal, whose essence can be summed up as “Kill or be
democratic, humanist and legal norms. However, killed”. They are tackling battle hardened
as there is a trade-off between these norms and the terrorists, and not pickpockets or fellows whistling
requirements of national at girls walking on the street. They have to act fast,
and cannot calculate carefully „the quantum of
130
appropriate force‟. In such situations, soldiers are to terrorists who are captured and tried in courts.
likely to keep firing until guns on the other side However, if they are awarded death penalty after
become silent. due legal process, there should be no uproar about
 Nowadays, many activists and academics argue for it.
abolition of Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act
(AFSPA). However, its abolition will expose Equity and Reciprocity
soldiers to a dual risk: the risks in armed  Principles of equity and reciprocity are also
encounters; and prosecutions and imprisonment. relevant in this context. John Rawls characterized
Withdrawing protection to soldiers fighting “Justice as a cooperative venture for mutual
arduous battles will be most unjust. It will prevent benefit”. All members of society, which adopts a
them from acting fearlessly. No disciplined soldier system of justice, should abide by its rules.
will „take it easy‟, and let terrorist-driven events Otherwise, besides being iniquitous, it will break
run their course. However, withdrawal of legal down. If any individuals or groups are disinclined
cover will definitely undermine his/her morale. to abide by constitutional arrangement, they
cannot still claim its benefits. They automatically
Human Rights forfeit such rights. Giving full benefits of such
 There is a tendency to regard human rights and rights to them is injustice to other law abiding
civil liberties as absolute, unbridgeable and citizens.
inviolable. This amounts to impracticable moral or
legal absolutism. Rights and liberties have to be Protecting the Nation
balanced against equally valued national  Obviously, no one will deny the need for individual
objectives. Our Constitution permits reasonable liberties to protect law-abiding citizens against
restrictions on fundamental rights. Accordingly, governmental overreach. However, this principle
courts watered down the right to property. The works ideally in a normally functioning democracy
right to equality is diluted for accommodating in ordinary times. However, when the even tenor
policies providing reservations and other benefits of ordinary life is disturbed and when armed
to groups considered as victims of past injustice or groups intent on insurrection challenge the state,
prejudice. Similar logic would allow reasonable restrictions on individual liberties become
restrictions on civil liberties for fighting terrorism. unavoidable. There are many historical examples,
which show that even established democratic
Moral Standing of Terrorists states had to restrict individual liberties during
 Opposition of human rights groups to cruel wars and similar emergencies.
treatment of terrorists is valid though by any moral  The first duty of the state is protect a nation‟s
criteria terrorists stand condemned. They integrity, and to this end, it has to take all
nevertheless have moral status or moral standing. necessary measures. If a state loses to its armed
According to Kantianism and natural law ethics, enemies, there will be nothing left---neither
the human rights of terrorists have to be respected. constitution, nor order nor citizenry. This is not an
 Human rights are the rights we possess simply by alarmist view. Contemporary world has seen the
virtue of our nature or humanity and we retain disappearance of many states. In addition,
them throughout our lives. A killer acts wrongly complete anarchy and total civil disorder now
without thereby losing his moral standing. He prevail in many other nations.
should not be tortured or mutilated. This applies
ETHICAL IDEALS IN LIFE

GS-IV ETHICS
 One of the conceptions of ideal human life is rather

 An important area of ethics deals with the IDEAL sublime. It holds that human impulses must be
LIFE, which human beings should lead. There are subjected to a moral law to encompass them in a
various views about the chief good or aim of life. rational system. This view emphasises the law of
One such aim is pleasure, conceived as consisting reason or of duty. The feelings, which people
simply in the gratification of the particular experience in adopting this mode of life, are very
impulses as they arise. This is known as hedonism. different from mere satisfactions. Pursuit of self-
Happiness is seen as another goal of life. interest leads to atype of satisfaction quite
Happiness is sought over the whole of one‟s life. It different from following duty; sensual enjoyments
consists of enjoying various pleasures in yield satisfactions different from those that arise
moderation and in avoiding dissipation. The from poetic or religious emotion. Some
pleasures can consist of ties of family and philosophers describe such higher types of feelings
friendship, intellectual interests, aesthetic as blessedness than as happiness. According to
enjoyments and spiritual pursuits. Spinoza, “happiness (beatitude) is not the reward
of virtue, but virtue itself”. A very different self is
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realised in each of these cases; and the resembles animals in having appetites, sensations
accompanying feeling of self-realisation is and mental images. However, all these, and
therefore different. everything else in man‟s nature, are modified by
 Thus, some or the other form of self-realisation, his reason. This is because man is rational, self-
i.e. some form of the development of conscious, and spiritual. This is the essential
character,constitutes the moral ideal. The end is aspect of human nature. The significance of the
seen as moral perfection than as happiness. Moral moral life consists in the constant endeavour to
life is viewed as a process of growth. According to make this principle more and more explicit - to
Green, the essential element in the nature of man bring out more and more completely our rational,
is the rational or spiritual principle. Man self-conscious, spiritual nature.
HOMOSEXUALITY
GS-IV ETHICS
Introduction
 Human beings feel a natural sexual attraction for commands, homosexuality still violates moral
members of their opposite sex. This is commonly principles, which most religions uphold. Marriage
taken as a universal norm. However, some men between sexes and rearing of children within
(called homosexual or gay) are sexually attracted families are important institutions. They not only
towards other men. Similarly, some women regulate sexual behaviour but also ensure rearing
(known as lesbians) are sexually attracted not of children in congenial and moral home
towards men but to women. environment. Homosexuality will destroy these
 Religious and social customs have generally anchors of stable social life.
condemned homosexuality. For example, the Bible  Homosexuality sets a bad example for children by
enjoins upon men and women, “Be fruitful and undermining conventional family and cultural
multiply”. Obviously, no conception results from values. If,homosexual behaviour is instilled in
homosexuality, unlike in heterosexuality-union children, and if it becomes widespread, humanity
between persons of opposite sexes. The Bible will not survive. Even if this fear may seem
denounces homosexuality as „an abomination‟. farfetched, there are real dangers of homosexuals
Hinduism and other religions regard marriage and assaulting children.
procreation as essential stages of human life.  Many people believe that homosexual practices
 Although homosexuality was known from early have led to rapid spread of HIV and AIDS.
human history, it carried strong social stigma. Homosexuals are officially recognised as high risk
Many societies, consider it a crime. Homosexuals groups in spreading HIV and AIDS. Hence,
used to inhabit a dark, shadowy world. In earlier homosexuality is not merely a private but also a
times, if homosexuality of an individual became public health risk.
known, he was publicly denounced. Oscar Wilde, a  We all live in society, whichis predominantly
famous literary figure, was imprisoned for his heterosexual. To be honest, most people react to
homosexual. Others such as E.M. Forester and homosexuality with revulsion and distaste.
Andre Gide had to hide their homosexuality. In Homosexuality is confined to a miniscule minority.
western society, homosexuality is no longer a There is no warrant to treat it as a main stream
taboo. To a great extent, prejudices against phenomenon.
homosexuals, lesbians, bisexuals and transgender  On these grounds, it is argued that homosexuality
(neither male nor female) are waning. Many states should be prohibited in order to protect children
in USA allow same sex marriages. and families, cultural and moral values and in
 In spite of such changing attitudes, homosexuals order to ensure human survival.
still face many problems. In India, homosexuality
used to be a crime, but recently it is Arguments in Favour of Homosexuality
decriminalised, however, the change at the society  Homosexuality is neither unnatural nor immoral.
level will only happen gradually. It is how some persons are sexually endowed by
nature. It should not be considered as aberrant or
Arguments against Homosexuality deviant behaviour. Psychologists are not agreed on
 Homosexuality is unnatural and perverse. It whether homosexuality is abnormal or normal in
violates the natural mode of propagation of human some circumstances. American Psychological
species. Therefore, homosexuality is against the Association has removed homosexuality from its
laws of nature; it militates against the morals of list of mental diseases.
nature.  Just because a society is predominantly
 Homosexuality is against divine commands. Even heterosexual, homosexuals cannot be labelled as
if we question the divine origin of moral immoral. No such conclusion can be validly drawn.
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No divine commands can be actually proved for homosexuals have adopted protective practices
there can never be any empirical evidence for and have greatly reduced risk of spreading HIV
them. They are matters of religious faith. They may and Aids. They acted far more responsibly than
be accepted by believers of a particular religion, drug addicts did in this regard.
but do not bind followers of other religions or  Acceptance of homosexuality does not imply
agnostics or atheists. condoning sexual assaults on children. In fact,
 It is true that prudent rules of behaviour or of most child sex predators are heterosexuals. This is
husbanding resources can be drawn from nature. a matter of moral depravity, which is unconnected
However, they carry no compelling force of logical with homosexuality.
demonstration. Further, it is impermissible to  Homosexuality is not a threat to family values.
derive moral principles from facts of nature. This Many gay and lesbian couples in USA are adopting
is known as the error of trying to draw moral children. They are raising them in healthy home
conclusions from factual premises or values from environment. Many US States have legalized such
facts. marriages.
 Homosexuality is practised between consenting  Homosexuals are human beings, and part of our
adults who are supposed to know what is good for moral community. The fact that their sexual
them. As long as such behaviour does not harm orientation or behaviour differs from that of others
others, no objections can be made against it. The should be no bar to their right of humane
spread of HIV and AIDS through homosexual treatment.
contacts was due to ignorance of the homosexuals
about risks of such contacts. Thereafter,
FACT-FINDER
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1. Provisions for the formation of “State Select the correct option using the code given
Food Commission” are inbuilt in the below.
“National Food Security Act (NFSA)”. (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 only
Which of the following is/are the (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 3 only
function(s) of “State Food Commission”?
1. Suo Motu inquiry into violation of 6. Consider the following statements about
entitlement to the beneficiaries. the Base Erosion and Profit Shifting
2. Giving advice to the state government on (BEPS)
effective implementation of NFSA. 1. It is a process in which companies avoid
3. Hearing appeals against the orders of the taxes by basing themselves in low-tax
district grievance redressal officer jurisdiction.
4. Preparing annual reports that shall be laid 2. Google Tax informally aims to combat
before the state legislature by the state BEPS.
government. Which of the above statement(s) is/are correct?
Select the correct option using the codes given (a) 1 only (b) 2 only
below. (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
(a) 1 2 and 3 (b) 2 3 and 4
(c) 1 only (d) All of the Above 7. “World Population Prospects" report is
released by which of the following?
2. Arrange the following islands/countries (a) WHO
from East to West (b) International Population Foundation
1. Diego Garcia Island (c) United Nations
2. Vanuatu Island (d) Red cross
3. Tulagi Island
Select the correct option using the codes given 8. Which of the following is/are the
below. initiative(s) of FSSAI (Food Safety and
(a) 2-1-3 (b) 2-3-1 Standards Authority of India)?
(c) 3-2-1 (d) 3-1-2 1. Eat Right Movement
2. Plan Bee
3. Consider the following statements with 3. National Milk Quality Survey
reference to newly formed Department of 4. RUCO
Military Affairs (DMA). Select the correct option using the codes given
1. It is headed by Chief of the Defence Staff below.
(CDS) (a) 1 and 4 only (b) 2 3 and 4
2. It is the only department in the Ministry of (c) 1 3 and 4 (d) 1 only
Defense.
Select the correct option using the codes given 9. Consider the following statements about
below. Blue Chip stocks/funds.
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only 1. These belong to the companies, which are
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 mostly focused on hiring blue collar
workers.
4. “Sunabeda Tiger Reserve” is located in 2. Such stocks give high return in normal
which of the following state? conditions.
(a) Odisha Which of the statement(s) given above is/are
(b) Assam correct?
(c) Chhattisgarh (a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(d) Maharashtra (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
5. Which of the following statements about 10. Consider the following statements about
the Ilbert Bill (1883) is/are correct? the Brahmo Samaj Movement.
1. It aimed to abolish the dual system of law 1. It opposed idolatry.
courts. 2. It denied the need for a priestly class for
2. The proposed Bill generated opposition from interpreting the religious texts.
England's European subjects in India. 3. It popularized the doctrine that the Vedas
3. In spite of opposition to the Bill, it was are infallible.
passed without any modifications. 4. It accepted the doctrine of karma.
Which of the above is/are correct?
134
(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 1 2 and 4 16. Consider the following statements about
(c) 3 only (d) All of the Above the “Ultrasonography”.
1. It uses the radio waves to diagnose the
11. Which of the following cities belong to internal body structures.
Iraq? 2. The waves utilized in the Ultrasonography
1. Mosul have frequencies higher than those audible
2. Amarah to humans.
3. Tikrit Which of the statements given above is/are
4. Raqqa correct?
Select the correct option suing the codes given (a) 1 only (b) 2 only
below. (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
(a) 1 2 and 3 (b) 2 3 and 4
(c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1 only 17. Which of the following is incorrect about
the “Pongal Festival”?
12. Consider the following statements with (a) It is a harvest festival
reference to “Cancun Agreement.” (b) It is celebrated in Tamil Nadu
1. It was the part of (Conference of parties) (c) Pongal also happens to be the name of a
COP 23 to the UNFCCC. dish consumed during this festive time
2. It violated the right of developing countries (d) None of the Above
to grow with an equal access to “global
carbon space”. 18. “MILAN 2020” recently in the news is?
Which of the above statement(s) is/are correct? (a) A Cultural festival to showcase the rich
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only cultural heritage of tribal artisans
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 (b) An International Naval Event
(c) A joint program of Ministry of tourism and
13. Consider the following statements with Ministry of culture to promote religious
reference to the concept of “Circular harmony
Economy”. (d) An initiative by the army in J&K to educate
1. Circular Economy is aimed at eliminating the young children.
waste, and the continual use of resources.
2. Source segregation, recycling and reuse, 19. Which among the following were
would help the Circular Economy. considered as part of the drain as put
Which of the above statement(s) is/are correct? forward by the “Drain Theory” of Early
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only Nationalists?
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 1. Salaries of British civil and military officials
working in India
14. Consider the following statements about 2. Interest on loans taken by the Indian
the “Operation Muskaan (Smile)”? Government
1. It aims to uplift the weaker section of 3. Profits of British capitalists in India
society with the help of Self-Help Groups. 4. Salaries of Indian Civil Servants serving the
2. It is an initiative of the Ministry of Social British
Justice and Empowerment. Select the correct option using the codes given
Which of the above statement(s) is/are correct? below.
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 1 2 and 3
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 (c) 2 3 and 4 (d) 1 and 3 only
15. Which of the following is/are incorrect 20. Consider the following statements with
about the Geostationary Orbit? reference to the “Mining Sector in
(a) It is also referred to as a geosynchronous India”.
equatorial orbit (GEO). 1. Private companies are not allowed to sell the
(b) It lies at 35786 kilometers above Earth's coal in India.
equator 2. Foreign companies with Indian Registration
(c) A satellite in GEO covers a third of the earth are allowed in the mining sector
below 3. Mineral Laws (Amendment) Ordinance
(d) None of the Above 2020, will help in reducing Indian coal
imports.
135
4. The companies which are not engaged in Select the correct option using the codes given
any coal-use industry can also participate in below.
auctions. (a) 1 2 3 and 4 (b) 1 2 and 5
Which of the statements given above is/are (c) 2 and 3 only (d) All of the Above
correct?
(a) 2 and 4 only (b) 2 3 and 4 only 25. Which of the following is/are the
(c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1 and 2 only qualifications prescribed for being “Voter
in India”?
21. Consider the following statements about 1. One must have attained 18 years of age.
the “Local Self-Government in India”. 2. One must be a citizen of India
1. Local self-government was highly successful 3. One must have an Aadhar Card
in India, after the Lord Ripon‟s effort. 4. One must not have been declared bankrupt
2. Council of India Act 1892, hiked the by a competent court.
Chaukidari tax in Bengal. 5. One must not be of unsound mind.
Which of the statements given above is/are Select the correct option using the codes given
correct? below.
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only (a) 1 only (b) 1 3 4 and 5
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 (c) 1 and 2 only (d) 1 2 4 and 5
22. Consider the following statements with 26. Which of the following statements is/are
reference to the “Access to Internet” in incorrect about the Round Table
India. Conference (RTC)?
1. Conducting business on the Internet is a (a) First round table conference was initially
fundamental right. between the British and the Indian as
2. United Nations has recommended that every equals
country should make access to Internet a (b) The aim of the conference was to discuss
fundamental right. the Simon Commission‟s Report.
3. A non-citizen can claim “Access to Internet” (c) In the Third Round Table Conference; Dr.
as her fundamental right. Ambedkar demanded separate electorates
4. Goa had become the first state in India to for the depressed classes.
declare “access to Internet”, "a basic human (d) The Indian National Congress did not take
right". part in the Third Round Table Conference.
Which of the statements given above is/are
correct? 27. With reference to “climate change”,
(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 and 4 only consider the following statements.
(c) 1 2 and 3 (d) All of the Above 1. 2010-2019 has been recorded as the hottest
decade of India since 1901.
23. Consider the following statements about 2. More than 50% of Indian population lives
the people belonging to the “Chakma and under „day zero situation‟.
Hajong” ethnicity. 3. NABARD has been accredited by the Green
1. They were among the earliest persecuted Climate Fund as a national implementing
groups to have fled the then East Pakistan. entity for undertaking climate change
2. Chakmas are predominantly Hindus, while related projects in India.
Hajongs are Buddhists. Which of the statements given above is/are
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) All of the Above
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
28. Consider the following statements about
24. Which of the following is/are the the Jupiter, a major planet in our solar
elements of good governance? system.
1. People Participation 1. According to the “Jupiter Shield Theory”,
2. Rule of Law Jupiter may be flinging objects into the
3. Executive Accountability inner solar system.
4. Separation of Power 2. Jupiter is the largest “Jovian Planet” in the
5. Complete removal of checks and balances solar system.
on private sector
136
Which of the statements given above is/are 1. It is an initiative of “Transparency

correct? International”.
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only 2. India is among the top 10 countries as per
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 the latest Rating.
29. UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) correct?
is consulted on which of the following (a) 1 only (b) 2 only
matters? (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
1. Withholding Promotion
2. Classification of Services 34. Consider the following statements about
3. Removal from Service the “Five-hundred-meter Aperture
4. Cadre Management Spherical Telescope (FAST)”.
5. Compulsory Retirement 1. It is an optical telescope of China.
Select the correct option using the codes given 2. It is the World‟s largest telescope.
below. Which of the statements given above is/are
(a) 2 3 and 4 (b) 1 3 and 5 correct?
(c) 1 4 and 5 (d) All of the Above (a) 1 only (b) 2 only
30. Which of the following is/are the
committees associated with the “three- 35. “Taal, an active volcano” which was
tier system of Governance”? recently in the news, belongs to which of
1. Balwantrai Mehta Committee the following country?
2. Gadgil Committee (a) Indonesia
3. Jayaprakash Narayan Committee (b) New Zealand
4. Ashok Mehta Committee (c) Hawaii
Select the correct options using the codes given (d) Philippines
below.
(a) 1 only (b) 1 and 4 only 36. Which of the following is/are the direct
(c) 1 3 and 4 (d) 2 3 and 4 results of the Criminalization of Politics?
1. Politicization of Bureaucracy
31. Consider the following statements about 2. Lack of Administrative Reform
the Comptroller and Auditor General of 3. Lateral Entry into the Services
India (CAG). 4. Non-transparent functioning of the
1. CAG is responsible only to the parliament. Parliament
2. Auditing of the “Contingency Fund of the Select the correct option using the codes given
states” is not among the powers of CAG. below.
Which of the statements given above is/are (a) 1 2 and 3 (b) 2 3 and 4
correct? (c) 1 and 4 only (d) 1 2 and 4
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 37. Consider the following beaches and their
respective states.
32. Consider the following statements about Beaches States
the “Merchant Discount Rate (MDR)”. 1. Ghoghla beach Karnataka
1. It is a discount which is paid to the 2. Rushikonda beach Andhra Pradesh
merchants by RBI for promoting digital 3. Bangaram beach Andaman and Nicobar
transaction. 4. Kappad beach Kerala
2. At present no MDR charges applicable on Which of the above-mentioned pairs is/are
payment via UPI for all merchants above 50 correctly matched?
crore turnover. (a) 1 2 and 3 (b) 1 3 and 4
Which of the statements given above is/are (c) 2 only (d) 2 and 4 only
correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only 38. Consider the following statements about
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 the umbrella scheme of “Rashtriya
Arogya Nidhi (RAN)”.
33. Consider the following statements about 1. It provides financial assistance to all the
“Global Right to Information Rating”. patients living below the Poverty Line.
137
2. “Scheme for financial assistance for patients 43. Consider the following statements with
suffering from specified rare diseases”, is reference to the latest ASER (Annual
part of RAN. Survey of Education Report).
Which of the statements given above is/are 1. There is a higher proportion of older
correct? children in the grade 1 in private schools
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only compared to government schools.
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 2. Right to Education mandates that children
enter grade one at age six.
39. Consider the following dams and their 3. ASER 2019 recommends that early
respective rivers. childhood education centers should be
Dams Rivers merged with schools.
1. Hirakud Mahanadi Which of the statements given above is/are
2. Koyana Tawa correct?
3. Tilaiya Krishna (a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only
Which of the above-mentioned pairs is/are (c) 2 and 3 only (d) All of the Above
correctly matched?
(a) 1 only (b) 1 and 3 only 44. Consider the following statements about
(c) 2 and 3 only (d) All of the Above the “Raisina Dialogue”.
1. It is jointly organized by the Union Ministry
40. Consider the following statements about of External Affairs and Observer Research
the “Lender of Last Resort”. Foundation.
1. RBI is known as lender of Last Resort in 2. The Dialogue has been India‟s contribution
India. to global efforts to discover solutions.
2. The “Lender of Last Resort”, has an Which of the statements given above is/are
obligation to provide financial assistance to correct?
a failing bank. (a) 1 only (b) 2 only
Which of the statements given above is/are (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only 45. “Yellow Cake”, a term often seen in the
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 context of which of the following?
(a) Gold
41. Consider the following statements about (b) Thorium
the Andaman and Nicobar (A&N) Islands. (c) Plutonium
1. The Andaman is separated from Nicobar by (d) Uranium
the Labyrinth island.
2. The southernmost point of India is located 46. Consider the following statements about
in the A&N Islands. the “Seekho aur Kamao (Learn & Earn)”
3. Mangrove Forests are highly developed in program.
the A&N Islands. 1. It is an initiative of Microsoft and Ministry of
Which of the statements given above is/are Skill Development
correct? 2. The scheme applies to all the people
(a) 3 only (b) 1 and 2 only belonging to below poverty line (BPL).
(c) 2 and 3 only (d) 2 only Which of the statements given above is/are
correct?
42. Arrange the following hills from North to (a) 1 only (b) 2 only
South. (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
1. Shevaroy Hills
2. Nilgiri Hills 47. Consider the following statements about
3. Cardamom Hills the “Environment Impact Assessment
4. Nallamala Hills (EIA)”.
Select the correct option using the codes given 1. Environmental Clearances for Category A
below. projects are granted at the Central level.
(a) 4-1-2-3 (b) 4-2-3-1 2. Environmental Clearances for Category B
(c) 4-1-3-2 (d) 4-2-1-3 projects are granted at the State level.
3. Railway Projects require necessary
Environmental Clearance at the Central
Level.
138
Which of the statements given above is/are (c) 1 and 3 only (d) All of the Above
correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only 52. “Atulya Misra Committee”, which was in
(c) 2 and 3 only (d) All of the Above the news recently, is associated with
which of the following?
48. Which of the following is/are the (a) Tackling the menace of Non-Performing
functions of the Central Drugs Standard Assets.
Control Organization (CDSCO)? (b) Death of trekkers caused by Forest Fires
1. Approval of new drugs and clinical trials (c) Mining in the tribal areas of Niyamgiri Hills
2. Fixing the ceiling price of essential (d) Defence Sector Reform
medicines that are listed in Schedule I of
DPCO, 2013. 53. “Laspeyres Index” is often in the news, in
3. Regulatory control over the import of drugs context of which of the following?
Select the correct option using the codes given (a) Measurement of Environmental Pollution
below. (b) Calculation of Consumer Price Index
(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) Increment in the Gold Prices
(c) 1 and 3 only (d) All of the Above (d) Indication of Diamond Prices
49. Which of the following viruses are 54. Consider the following tribes and their
considered as part of the “family of respective states.
Coronavirus”? Tribes States
1. Common Cold 1. Bru Tripura
2. Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) 2. Abor Odisha
3. Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) 3. Gaddi Himachal Pradesh
Select the correct option suing the codes given Which of the above pairs is/are correctly
below. matched?
(a) 2 only (b) 1 and 2 only (a) 1 only (b) 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only (d) All of the Above (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 2 and 3 only
50. Which of the following is/are the 55. Which of the following are the possible
objective(s) of the “Make in India advantages of the large Foreign Exchange
Mission”? Reserve (FER)?
1. To ensure employment to more than 90% of 1. It helps in tackling external shocks faced by
the population the economy
2. To increase the manufacturing sector‟s 2. It may help in funding the infrastructure
growth rate to 12-14% per annum projects
3. To create 100 million additional 3. It helps in maintaining liquidity in case of
manufacturing jobs in the economy by 2022 economic crises.
4. To develop 1 Lakh Kilometers of Railway 4. It helps in stabilizing the domestic currency
tracks. Select the correct option using the codes given
Select the correct option using the codes given below.
below. (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 and 4 only
(a) 1 2 and 3 (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 3 and 4 (d) All of the Above
(c) 2 only (d) 3 and 4 only
56. Which of the following is/are the
51. With reference to the Karewa Formation applications of Indian National Satellite
consider the following statements. System (INSAT)?
1. Karewas are the lacustrine deposits of the 1. Television
Ordovician period. 2. Weather Mapping
2. The Karewa soils of Kashmir have enormous 3. Replacement of Fiber Optic cable as Fiber
agricultural potential. optic has lesser bandwidth and more
3. The Pampore and Pulwama karewas are well electromagnetic interference
known for the cultivation of saffron, 4. Data and Internet Services
almonds, and walnuts. Select the correct option using the codes given
Which of the statements given above is/are below.
correct? (a) 1 2 and 3 (b) 4 only
(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 2 and 4 (d) All of the Above
139
57. Which of the following best explains the Which of the statements given above is/are
“Deepfakes”? correct?
(a) It is a technology to explore the deep ocean (a) 1 only
to protect Biodiversity. (b) 2 only
(b) It refers to AI-Driven Video-Manipulation (c) Both 1 and 2
technologies (d) Neither 1 nor 2
(c) It refers to the minerals which lie at the
deep ocean planes 63. Which of the following is correct with
(d) It is a new communication technology reference to the Bru-Reang Agreement,
invented to discover the earth like planets in recently in the news?
deep space. (a) It aims to settle Brue communities in
Meghalaya.
58. Consider the following statements about (b) Reang Community is recognized as
the “Coriolis Force” Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group in
1. Wind deflection due to Coriolis force is Meghalaya.
maximum at the pole. (c) It is an agreement between the center and
2. Coriolis force reduces the speed of the wind. the respective North-East Indian States.
Which of the statements given above is/are (d) None of the Above
correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only 64. Earth’s distinct seasons are caused due
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 to:
1. Revolution of Earth
59. Which of the following personalities had 2. Rotation of Earth
a deep impact on Gandhi Ji? 3. Axial Tilt
1. Leo Tolstoy 4. Sphericity
2. Henry David Thoreau Select the correct option using the codes given
3. Shrimad Rajchandra below.
4. John Ruskin (a) 1 2 and 3 (b) 2 3 and 4
Select the correct option using the codes given (c) 1 and 3 only (d) All of the Above
below.
(a) 4 only (b) 1 3 and 4 65. Consider the following rivers and the
(c) 1 2 and 4 (d) All of the Above places of their discharge.
Rivers Places of discharge
60. Which of the following lake is not among 1. Nile Atlantic Ocean
the “Great Lakes of North America”? 2. Zaire Lake Victoria
(a) Lake Huron 3. Amazon Pacific Ocean
(b) Lake Michigan Which of the above-mentioned pairs is/are
(c) Lake Titicaca correctly matched?
(d) Lake Superior (a) 1 only (b) 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only (d) None of the Above
61. Which of the following is incorrect about
the “Economic Survey of India, 2019”? 66. Which of the following is/are correct
(a) It provides an outline for the year ahead. about the Tides?
(b) It highlights the performance of important 1. Tides are highest on full moon and new
government policies. moon.
(c) It highlighted that to become a $5 trillion 2. Tides help in formation of Deltas
economy by 2025; India needs to sustain a 3. Tides help in cleaning of coastal regions.
GDP growth rate of 8%.No modification 4. Gulf of Khambhat in India is a potential site
(d) None of the Above for the generation of Tidal Energy.
Select the correct option using the codes given
62. Consider the following statements about below.
the “Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients”. (a) 1 2 and 4 (b) 2 3 and 4
1. These are the raw materials used for making (c) 1 3 and 4 (d) 1 only
intermediates.
2. India is dependent on China for major 67. Consider the following statements.
essential medicines. 1. Oceanic crust is denser but less thick than
continental crust.
140
2. Continental crust is rich in iron and 72. Which of the following is/are incorrect
Magnesium. about “PRAGATI” Platform?
Which of the statements given above is/are (a) It is a robust system for bringing e-
correct? transparency and e-accountability
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only (b) PRAGATI platform utilizes the Geo-spatial
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Technology.
(c) It is a 4-tier system consisting of Union
68. Which of the following is/are the government; state government; district
occasion(s) when the President addresses government and gram panchayats
the Joint sitting of the Parliament? (d) Both b and c
1. Commencement of the first session after
each general election to the Lok Sabha 73. Which of the following is/are incorrect
2. At the commencement of every session. about the Terrestrial Planets?
3. At the commencement of the first session of (a) Terrestrial planets lack a ring system
each year. (b) They have very few natural satellites or no
Select the correct option suing the codes given satellites.
below. (c) Earth and Mars both have one satellite.
(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (d) All of the Above
(c) 1 and 3 only (d) All of the Above
69. Consider the following statements about the “Anticipatory Bail (AB)”.
the “Sharang Artillery Gun”. 1. The concept of bail flows from the right to
1. It is an upgraded version of US Howitzer. liberty
2. It has a strike range of more than 100km. 2. AB is a direction to release a person on bail,
3. Sharang upgrade is completely indigenous. issued even before the person is arrested.
Which of the statements given above is/are 3. An anticipatory bail is limited to a fixed time
incorrect? period
(a) 1 only (b) 1 and 3 only Which of the statements given above is/are
(c) 1 and 2 only (d) 3 only correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only
70. Consider the following statements with (c) 2 and 3 only (d) All of the Above
reference to the “Medical Termination of
Pregnancy (MTP) (Amendment) Bill 2020” 75. Which of the following statements is/are
1. At present the upper limit for the correct about the Chotanagpur Plateau?
termination of pregnancy is 12 weeks. 1. It sprawls over parts of West Bengal and
2. A minor under the current law can‟t get an north-eastern part of Andhra Pradesh.
abortion. 2. Barakar, Damodar, Subarnarekha, and
3. Currently the provision of allowing Koels rivers drain Chotanagpur Plateau.
contraceptive failure as a basis for seeking 3. The basin of the Mahanadi River lies to the
an abortion is available to married women south of it.
only. 4. Ranchi plateau is the smallest part of
Which of the statements given above is/are Chotanagpur Plateau.
correct? Select the correct option using the codes given
(a) 2 only (b) 3 only below.
(c) 1 only (d) None of the Above (a) 1 2 and 3 (b) 2 3 and 4
(c) 1 only (d) All of the Above
the “Chandrayaan-3” 76. With reference to the “Western Ghats”
1. It is a Mission by ISRO for demonstrating Consider the following statements.
hard landing. 1. Godavari, Krishna and Kaveri all rise from
2. This mission will include a lander and the Western Ghats.
orbiter like Chandrayan-2. 2. Kudermukh and Pushpagiri are among the
Which of the statements given above is/are important peaks of Western Ghats.
incorrect? 3. Thal Ghat an important pass in Western
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only Ghat that joins Mumbai with Pune.
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Which of the statements given above is/are
correct?
141

(c) 1 and 3 only (d) All of the Above ANSWERS
77. What is/are the reason(s) that India is 1. d 21. d 41. c 61. d
not self-sufficient in many crops? 2. b 22. a 42. a 62. b
1. The area of land which is arable in India is 3. a 23. a 43. b 63. c
very low. 4. a 24. a 44. c 64. d
2. The yield of crops in India is very low.
5. b 25. d 45. d 65. d
Select the correct option using the codes given
6. c 26. c 46. d 66. c
below.
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only 7. c 27. c 47. b 67. a
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 8. c 28. b 48. c 68. c
9. b 29. b 49. d 69. c
78. Which of the following is/are the rights 10. a 30. c 50. b 70. b
available to Minorities only? 11. a 31. a 51. b 71. c
1. Special provision relating to the language 12. b 32. b 52. b 72. c
spoken under Article 347. 13. c 33. b 53. b 73. c
2. Prohibition against compelling a person to
14. c 34. b 54. c 74. b
pay taxes for promotion of any particular
15. d 35. d 55. d 75. a
religion under Article 27.
3. Provision for facilities for instruction in 16. b 36. d 56. c 76. b
mother-tongue at primary stage under 17. d 37. d 57. b 77. b
350A. 18. b 38. b 58. a 78. c
Select the correct option using the codes given 19. b 39. a 59. d 79. b
below. 20. b 40. a 60. c 80. c
(c) 1 and 3 only (d) None of the Above

the “MCA21”, which was recently in the
news.
1. It is an accounting standard developed by
Ministry of Commerce.
2. It enables the business community to
register a company and file statutory
documents quickly.
correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
80. Which of the following is/are incorrect

about “PRAGATI” Platform?
(a) It is a robust system for bringing e-
transparency and e-accountability
(b) PRAGATI platform utilizes the Geo-spatial
Technology.
(c) It is a 4-tier system consisting of Union
government; state government; district
government and gram panchayats
(d) Both b and c

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The IAS Gazette

A House Journal of APTI PLUS

Eastern India’s Best IAS Academy since 2006

SWACHH BHARAT MISSION 20

BHUBANESHWAR CAMPUS CHINESE PADDLEFISH BECOMES EXTINCT AFTER

Arise, awake and stop not till the goal is reached.

LAI HARAOBA FESTIVAL

About the Festival

Sanamahism Meitei people

In News In News: NAGOBA FESTIVAL

About the Mausoleum  It bears a striking resemblance to the Taj Mahal,

WORLD HINDI DAY 2020

The history Facts about the Hindi language

The seals excavated

Findings from the excavated sites

Why is the excavation important?

What do the findings suggest?

Context Buddhist rock-cut caves on adjacent hillocks,

INTACH: The Indian National Trust for Art

Context  She fought against discrimination on the basis of

 In her poem entitled "Go, Get Education" she

In News: Indian Heritage in Digital Space

MEDIEVAL MONASTERIES AT MOGHALMARI

Context  The inscriptions are in Sanskrit and the script is a

The evolution of Scripts

GURU GOBIND SINGH

About Guru Gobind Singh

Guru Nanak Founder of Sikhism

Guru Angad Started the Gurumukhi script. Visited by Humayun.

Guru Arjan Dev Compiled the Adi Granth . Executed by Jahangir.

Guru Hargobind Introduced the Akal Takht (seat of power).

Guru Har Rai Supported Dara Shikoh against Aurangzeb.

Context Mahars and the Victory Pillar

COLONIAL STRUCTURES RE-DEDICATED TO

 Belvedere House, which has been Metcalfe Hall

Criteria for conferring the status of Classical languages in India

 In 2006, the Government of India renamed the  A subsistence level of economy.

Place /Location (then and Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh,

Languages spoken Bhili

Religion/God Tiger God Called "Vaghdev"

Food Maize, Wheat and Fruits

HARVEST FESTIVALS OF INDIA

Various Harvest Festivals of India

PoushSankranti West Bengal

Pongal Tamil Nadu

Magha Bihu Assam

Saaji Himachal Pradesh

Kicheri Uttar Pradesh

Garo Tribe of Meghalaya, Nagaland and

Nobanno West Bengal

Ka Pomblang Nongkrem Meghalaya

Makar Sankranti Pan India

Ladakh Harvest Festival Ladakh, Zanskar, Kargil

Basant Panchami Punjab, Haryana

Bhogali Bihu Assam

Gudi Padwa Maharashtra

Ugadi Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka