Civilsdaily

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  • [RSTV-Big Picture]-Artice 370:A Review

    The Supreme Court on 14 January agreed to hear the PIL, challenging Article 370 and separate Constitution of Jammu and Kashmir. The Apex Court tagged it with another pending matter and will hear all matters on Tuesday 2nd April.

    Article 370 of the Indian constitution is an article that gives autonomous status to the state. The article is drafted in Part XXI of the Constitution: Temporary,Transitional and Special Provisions, the state of Jammu & Kashmir has been accorded special status under Article 370.

    All the provisions of the Constitution which are applicable to other states are not applicable to J&K. For example, till 1965, J&K had a Sadr-e-Riyasat for governor and prime minister in place of Chief Minister.

  • 14th January 2018 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

    Q.1) Consider the following statements about National Population Register (NPR):

    1. It is maintained under the office of Union Home Minister.
    2. It aims to create a comprehensive identity database of every usual resident in the country.
    3. It is mandatory for every usual resident of India to register in the NPR.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    a) 1 and 2

    b) Only 2

    c) 2 and 3

    d) All are correct

    Inspired by: Centre to revive National Population Register (NPR)

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/centre-to-revive-national-population-register-npr/

    Q.2) The National Youth Parliament Festival is an initiative under:

    a) Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs

    b) Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports

    c) PMO

    d) Ministry of HRD

    Inspired by: [pib] National Youth Parliament Festival 2019

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-national-youth-parliament-festival-2019/

    Q.3)  The ‘One Family One Job’ scheme which entitles one government job for every family was recently launched in which of the following states?

    a) Goa

    b) Kerala

    c) Sikkim

    d) Odisha

    Inspired by: Sikkim launches “One Family One Job” Scheme

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/sikkim-launches-one-family-one-job-scheme/

    Q.4) Consider the following statements with respect to the Magnetic North Pole of the Earth:

    1. Earth’s magnetic North Pole is more or less same as the geographic North Pole.
    2. It drifts at a uniform speed of 50km/year.
    3. Both North and South Magnetic Pole drift at uniform rate.

    Which of the given statements is/are not correct?

    a) Only 1

    b) Only 2

    c) 2 and 3

    d) All are incorrect

    Inspired by: Shifting north magnetic pole forces urgent navigation fix

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/shifting-north-magnetic-pole-forces-urgent-navigation-fix/

    Q.5) A Private Member’s Bill:

    1. can be introduced by only ruling party MPs.
    2. can be introduced a bill in the parliament after giving prior notice of one month.
    3. president can easily exercise his absolute veto power against such bills.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    a) All are correct

    b) 1 and 2

    c) 2 and 3

    d) Only 2

    Inspired by: Private Member’s Bill to allow employees to ignore calls after work

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/private-members-bill-to-allow-employees-to-ignore-calls-after-work/

     

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  • 12th January 2018 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

    Q.1) Consider the following statements:

    1. The Global Solar Council is an executive body under the International Solar Alliance (ISA).
    2. It offers programs in regulatory policy, trade policy, new market opening and jobs & skills training.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    a) Both 1 and 2

    b) Only 1

    c) Only 2

    d) Neither 1 nor 2

    Inspired by: Business Standard

    Q.2) The Tons and Giri Rivers are tributaries of which of the following major river?

    a) Ganga

    b) Brahmaputra

    c) Mahanadi

    d) Yamuna

    Inspired by: Centre signs pact with 5 States on Renukaji dam

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/centre-signs-pact-with-5-states-on-renukaji-dam/

    Q.3) With reference to the India-Central Asia Dialogue, consider the following statements:

    1. The first India-Central Asia Dialogue was recently held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.
    2. Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan are also parties to this dialogue.
    3. The participants aim to deliberate on developing viable connectivity options between India and Afghanistan and Central Asia.

    Which of the given statements is/are not correct?

    a) Only 2

    b) 1 and 3

    c) Only 3

    d) None of the above

    Inspired by: First India-Central Asia Dialogue to be held in Uzbekistan

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/first-india-central-asia-dialogue-to-be-held-in-uzbekistan/

    Q.4) Certain Amendments to the Constitution of India requires the amendment bill to be passed by Special Majority and Ratification by half of the States. Which of the following is/are such a grounds?

    1. Manner of election of President
    2. Executive power of the Union and the State
    3. The Supreme Court and the High Courts
    4. Distribution of legislative power between the Union and the States
    5. Article 368 itself

    Select the correct code:

    a) All of the above

    b) 1, 2 and 5

    c) 1, 2, 4, 5

    d) 1, 3, 4, 5

    Inspired by: Explained: The Amendment procedure

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/explained-the-amendment-procedure/

    Q.5) Consider the following statements with respect to the Off-Budget Financing:

    1. It refers to expenditure that’s not funded through the budget.
    2. It does not have any implications on the budget and the fiscal deficit.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    a) Both1 and 2

    b) Only 1

    c) Only 2

    d) Neither 1 nor 2

    Inspired by: Explained: Off-Budget Financing

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/explained-off-budget-financing/

     

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  • [RSTV-Big Picture]-US Shutdown and Emergency

    President Donald Trump,facing the prospect soon of the longest U.S. government shutdown in history,was considering declaring a national emergency that would likely escalate a policy dispute with Democrats over his proposed U.S.-Mexico border wall into a court test of presidential power.

    To escape a political trap of his own making,Trump suggested strongly on Thursday that he might declare an emergency so that he can bypass Congress to get funding for his wall,which was a central promise of his 2016 election campaign.

    Trump is demanding that Congress provide $5.7 billion in U.S. taxpayer funding for the wall.That is opposed by Democrats in Congress,who call the wall an ineffective,outdated answer to a complex problem.The standoff has left a quarter of the federal government closed down and hundreds of thousands of federal employees staying home or working for no pay.

  • 11th January 2018 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

    Q.1) Which of the following countries is/are not the members of Gulf Cooperation Council?

    1. Bahrain
    2. Kuwait
    3. Oman
    4. Qatar
    5. Iran

    a) 4 and 5

    b) 1, 3 and 5

    c) Only 4

    d) Only 5

    Inspired by: Iran proposes new regional forum for Gulf

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/iran-proposes-new-regional-forum-for-gulf/

    Q.2) The Democracy Index recently seen in news is released by-

    a) Transparency International

    b) The Economist Intelligence Unit

    c) German-watch

    d) None of the above

    Inspired by: India moves up a rank on The Economist’s Democracy Index 2018

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/india-moves-up-a-rank-on-the-economists-democracy-index-2018/

    Q.3) Consider the following statements:

    1. “Election matter” has been explicitly defined in the Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act.
    2. Same act prohibits displaying any election matter by means of television or similar apparatus, during the period of 48 hours before the hour fixed for conclusion of poll in a constituency.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    a) Only 1

    b) Only 2

    c) Both 1 and 2

    d) Neither 1 nor 2

    Inspired by: [pib] Report on Section 126 of the RP Act, 1951, Submitted

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-report-on-section-126-of-the-rp-act-1951-submitted/

    Q.4) Sino-Indian Digital Collaboration Plaza (SIDCOP) is an initiative of:

    a) NASSACOM

    b) FICCI

    c) ASSOCHAM

    d) None of the above

    Inspired by: [pib] Sino-Indian Digital Collaboration Plaza

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-sino-indian-digital-collaboration-plaza/

    Q.5) The Henley’s Index recently seen in news is related to:

    a) Tourism

    b) Visa Policy

    c) Immigration

    d) Travel Safety

    Inspired by: CNBC

     

    For Solutions – Click Here

    Prelims Daily Archive – Click here

  • 10th January 2018 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

    Q.1) The National Anti-Profiteering Authority (NAA) is the body to check the unfair profit-making activities by the trading community. With reference to the NAA, consider the following statements:

    1. The decision about the formation the NAA was taken by the GST Council in its 22nd meeting at Guwahati.
    2. It was formed to check if Traders charge high price from the consumers by naming the GST factor.
    3. NAA is authorised to examine and check profiteering activities and recommend punitive actions including cancellation of licenses.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    a) Only 1

    b) 1 and 2

    c) 1 and 3

    d) All are correct

    Inspired by: [pib] National Anti-Profiteering Authority (NAA)

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-national-anti-profiteering-authority-naa/

    Q.2) Web-Wonder Women Campaign recently seen in news is an initiative of:

    a) Ministry of HRD

    b) Ministry of WCD

    c) NITI Aayog

    d) All of the above

    Inspired by: [pib] “Web- Wonder Women” Campaign

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-web-wonder-women-campaign/

    Q.3) With respect to the conduct of the Indian Forest Service (IFS) of India, consider the following statements:

    1. An IFS officer is wholly independent of the district administration and exercises administrative, judicial and financial powers in his own domain.
    2. Forests finds place in the Union List of the Seventh Schedule of Indian Constitution.

    Which of the given statements is/are not correct?

    a) Only 1

    b) Only 2

    c) Both 1 and 2

    d) Neither 1 nor 2

    Inspired by: Government plans to rename Indian Forest Service

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/government-plans-to-rename-indian-forest-service/

     

    Q.4) Which of the following will be the first state to roll out Universal Basic Income (UBI) in India?

    a) Kerala

    b) Andhra Pradesh

    c) Sikkim

    d) West Bengal

    Inspired by: Sikkim to roll out Universal Basic Income

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/sikkim-to-roll-out-universal-basic-income/

    Q.5) Which of the following sites of Indus Valley Civilization is distinguished by its unique fire altars and “world’s earliest attested ploughed field?

    a) Alamgirpur

    b) Suktagendor

    c) Rakhigarhi

    d) Kalibangan

    Inspired by: What a Harappan grave says about marriage

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/what-a-harappan-grave-says-about-marriage/

     

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  • 8th and 9th January 2018 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

    8th Jan , Wednesday

    Q.1) The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) is one of the largest recruitment agencies in our country. With respect to the SSC, which of the given statements is/are correct?

    1. The SSC is a statutory body under the Ministry of Human Resource Development.
    2. It was created to ease the burden of the UPSC by taking over the recruitment for posts below the Group ‘A’ level.

    Select the correct code:

    a) Both 1 and 2

    b) Only 1

    c) Only 2

    d) Neither 1 nor 2

    Inspired by: MPs’ panel proposes legal status for SSC

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/mps-panel-proposes-legal-status-for-ssc/

    Q.2) With reference to the incidence of Rare Diseases is India, consider the following statements:

    1. Treatment of rare diseases in India is assisted under the Ayushman Bharat Scheme.
    2. India does not have a definition of rare disease.
    3. WHO defines rare disease as often debilitating lifelong disease or disorder condition with a prevalence of 1 or less, per 1,000 population.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    a) 1and 2

    b) 2 and 3

    c) 1 and 3

    d) All are correct

    Inspired by: No policy for rare diseases, govt declares ‘one-time financial assistance’

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/no-policy-for-rare-diseases-govt-declares-one-time-financial-assistance/

    Q.3) Consider the following statements with respect to the proposed New Delhi International Arbitration Centre:

    1. It will be headed by the Prime Minister of India.
    2. It is aimed to develop India as a flagship institution for only international arbitration centre.

    Which of the given statement is/are incorrect?

    a) Only 1

    b) Only 2

    c) Both 1 and 2

    d) Neither 1 nor 2

    Inspired by: Lok Sabha passes New Delhi International Arbitration Centre Bill

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/lok-sabha-passes-new-delhi-international-arbitration-centre-bill/

    Q.4) The Labour Code on Industrial Relations as prepared by the Ministry of Labour seeks to modify which of the given legislation(s)?

    a) Industrial Disputes Act, 1947

    b) Trade Unions Act, 1926

    c) Industrial Employment (Standing Orders) Act, 1946

    d) All of the above

    Inspired by: New national policy for domestic workers being drafted, 40 lakh to benefit

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/new-national-policy-for-domestic-workers-being-drafted-40-lakh-to-benefit/

    Q.5) Which of the following is does not define a person’s eligibility for the Economically Weaker Section (EWS) Quota?

    a) One having annual income below Rs 8 lakh

    b) Agriculture land below 5 acres

    c) Residential house below 100 sq.ft

    d) Residential plot below 100 yards in notified municipality and residential plot below 200 yards in non-notified municipality area

    Inspired by: Cabinet approves 10% quota for EWS in general category

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/cabinet-approves-10-quota-for-ews-in-general-category/

     

    9th Jan , Wednesday

    Q.1) Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease is caused by:

    a) Microbial infection

    b) Bacterial Infection

    c) Fungal Infection

    d) Viral Infection

    Inspired by: Lok Sabha Passes Amendment Bill To Remove Leprosy as Ground For Divorce

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/lok-sabha-passes-amendment-bill-to-remove-leprosy-as-ground-for-divorce/

    Q.2) The Washington Convention is referred for :

    a) Migratory Birds

    b) Commercial Whaling

    c) Trade in endangered species of Wild flora and fauna

    d) None of the above

    Inspired by: India demands removal of rosewood from CITES

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/india-demands-removal-of-rosewood-from-cites/

    Q.3) The Reserve Bank of India has recently permitted tokenization of various card transactions, including from debit and credit cards. With respect to the tokenization, which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. Tokenisation will be a free-of-cost service to the customer.
    2. Tokens will be issued by the respective bank of the account holder
    3. It will perform card transactions in contactless mode at POS terminals, QR code payments.

    Which of the given statements is/are incorrect?

    a) 2 only

    b) 3 only

    c) 1 and 3

    d) 2 and 3

    Inspired by: RBI issues guidelines for tokenization of card transactions

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/rbi-issues-guidelines-for-tokenization-of-card-transactions/

    Q.4) The Nandan Nilekani Panel recently seen in news is related to:

    a) Aadhaar use in KYC

    b) Digital Payments

    c) Bankers Repository

    d) NPA Issue

    Inspired by: RBI forms Nandan Nilekani-led digital payments panel

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/rbi-forms-nandan-nilekani-led-digital-payments-panel/

    Q.5) For a person to be in the Fugitive Economic Offenders’ List:

    1. There shound an arrest warrant against him or her for involvement in economic offences involving at least Rs. 1000 crore or more and has fled from India to escape legal action.
    2. The investigating agencies need to file an application in a Special Court under the Prevention of Money-Laundering Act, 2002 with necessary information.

    Select the correct codes:

    a) Only 1

    b) Only 2

    c) Both 1 and 2

    d) Neither 1 nor 2

    Inspired by: LiveMint

     

     

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  • [RSTV-Big Picture]-Reservation-Who will Benefit

    After intense debate for nearly five hours, the Lok Sabha today passed The Constitution (One hundred and twenty-fourth amendment) Bill, 2019 to provide reservation in public employment and higher education for economically weaker sections.At the voting held at around 10 PM on the last day of the winter session, 323 out of 326 MPs present voted in support of the Bill.

    Economic reservation in jobs and education is proposed to be provided by inserting clause(6) in Articles 15 and 16 of the Constitution. The proposed Article 15(6) enables State to make special provisions for advancement of any economically weaker section of citizens, including reservations in educational institutions. It states that such reservation can be made in any educational institution, including private institutions, whether aided or unaided, except minority educational institutions covered under Article 30(1).

    It further states that the upper limit of reservation will be ten percent,which will be in addition to the existing reservations.As regards job reservations,the proposed Article 16(6) enables State to make provision for reservation in appointments,in addition to the existing reservations, subject to a maximum of ten percent.

    At present, reservations account for a total of 49.5%, with 15%, 7.5% and 27% quotas for Scheduled Castes,Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Classes respectively.”Economically weaker sections” for the purposes of Articles 15 and 16 mean such sections as notified by the State from time to time on the basis of family income and other indicators of economic disadvantage. This will be a class distinct from the already specified classes of SCs, STs and socially and educationally backward classes.

    The economically weaker sections of citizens have largely remained excluded from higher education and public employment due to their financial capacity.Therefore, there is a need to amend the constitution to give them a fair chance of getting higher education and public employment,so as to fulfill the mandate of Article 46 of the Constitution.

    The nine judge bench decision of the SC in the Indira Sawhney case(1992) had capped the upper limit of reservation at 50%. The proposed amendments seek to get over this limit. The Indira Sawhney case had further held that social backwardness cannot be determined only with reference to economic criterion.

  • 7th January 2018 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

    Q.1) Which of the following production is not included in Strategic Partnership Model of the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC)?

    1. Submarines
    2. Aircraft Carriers
    3. Helicopters
    4. Single-engine Fighter Aircraft
    5. Battle Tanks

    Select the correct alternative from the following codes:

    a) All of the above

    b) 1, 2, 4, 5

    c) 1, 3, 4, 5

    d) 3, 4, 5

    Inspired by: Defence manufacturing rules eased

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/defence-manufacturing-rules-eased/

    Q.2) The Pabuk Cyclone recently seen in news was originated in:

    a) South China Sea

    b) Gulf of Thailand

    c) Bay of Bengal

    d) None of these

    Inspired by: Yellow Alert sounded as Cyclone Pabuk reaches A&N Islands

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/yellow-alert-sounded-as-cyclone-pabuk-reaches-an-islands/

    Q.3) Which of the following statements about Atal Solar Krishi Pump (ASKP) Yojana is/are incorrect?

    1. It is a scheme of Ministry of New and Renewable Energy launched in all States and UTs.
    2. It aims to reduce losses due to non-payment of electricity bills and promote solar energy use.
    3. Farmers under this scheme are availed 100% subsidy on solar agriculture pumpsets.

    Select the correct alternative:

    a) 1 and 2

    b) 2 only

    c) 3 only

    d) All are incorrect

    Inspired by: Maharashtra farmers to get sops for using solar pumps

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/maharashtra-farmers-to-get-sops-for-using-solar-pumps/

    Q.4) The 70 point Performance Grading Index (PGI) recently seen in news is related to the assessment of which of the following sectors?

    a) Education

    b) Doing Business

    c) FDI

    d) Swachh Survekshan

    Inspired by: 70 point Performance Index to assess states on schooling system

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/70-point-performance-index-to-assess-states-on-schooling-system/

    Q.5) The School Education Quality Index (India) is released by:

    a) Ministry of HRD

    b) NITI Aayog

    c) CBSE

    Tata Institute of Fundamental Research

    Inspired by: 70 point Performance Index to assess states on schooling system

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/70-point-performance-index-to-assess-states-on-schooling-system/

    For Solutions – Click Here

    Prelims Daily Archive – Click here

  • 5th January 2018 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

    Q.1) Consider the following statements:

    1. The Factories Act, 1881 was passed with a view to fix the wages of industrial workers and to allow the workers to form trade unions.
    2. M. Lokhande was a pioneer in organizing the labour movement in British India.

    Which of the above statements is/are correct? (CSP 2017)

    a) 1 only

    b) 2 only

    c) Both 1 and 2

    d) Neither 1 nor 2

    Inspired by: [pib] Amendment to the Trade Unions Act, 1926 to make provisions regarding Recognition of Trade Unions

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-amendment-to-the-trade-unions-act-1926-to-make-provisions-regarding-recognition-of-trade-unions/

    Q.2) Consider the following statements:

    1. The credit for the first association of Indian workers is generally given to the Bombay Mill-Hands Association founded by N.M. Lokhande in 1890.
    2. The first clearly registered trade-union is considered to be the Madras Labour Union founded by B.P. Wadia in 1918.

    Which of the given statements is/are incorrect?

    a) Only 1

    b) Only 2

    c) Both 1 and 2

    d) Neither 1 nor 2

    Inspired by: [pib] Amendment to the Trade Unions Act, 1926 to make provisions regarding Recognition of Trade Unions

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-amendment-to-the-trade-unions-act-1926-to-make-provisions-regarding-recognition-of-trade-unions/

    Q.3) Which of the following are not the components of Menstrual Hygiene Scheme of the Govt. of India?

    a) Improving access to and use of high quality sanitary napkins by adolescent girls in rural areas.

    b) Ensuring safe disposal of Sanitary Napkins in an environmentally friendly manner.

    c) Provision of funds to ASHAs to hold monthly meeting with adolescents to discuss issues related to menstrual hygiene.

    d) None of the above.

    Inspired by: [pib] Menstrual Hygiene for Adolescent Girls Scheme

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-menstrual-hygiene-for-adolescent-girls-scheme/

    Q.4) With reference to the MSME Sector of India, consider the following statements:

    1. The share of MSMEs in the country’s gross value added is estimated to be about 32%
    2. It also contributes about 40% to total exports and 45% to manufacturing output.
    3. More than 90% of MSMEs operate in the formal sector

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    a) 1 and 2

    b) 2 and 3

    c) Only 2

    d) All are correct

    Inspired by: RBI forms expert committee to rejuvenate MSMEs

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/rbi-forms-expert-committee-to-rejuvenate-msmes/

    Q.5) The Khushi Scheme, a female health and hygiene program to provide free sanitary pads to girl students is an initiative of:

    a) Madhya Pradesh

    b) Haryana

    c) Odisha

    d) Maharashtra

    Inspired by: The Indian Express

     

     

    For Solutions – Click Here

    Prelims Daily Archive – Click here

  • 4th January 2018 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

    Q.1) The Nocte’, “Tangsa’, Tutsa’ and ‘Wancho’  Naga tribes are  scheduled in the state of:

    a) Mizoram

    b) Arunachal Pradesh

    c) Nagaland

    d) Manipur

    Inspired by: [pib] Cabinet approves revision in list of Scheduled Tribes of Arunachal Pradesh

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-cabinet-approves-revision-in-list-of-scheduled-tribes-of-arunachal-pradesh/

    Q.2) With reference to the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) model of the PPP, which of the given statements is/are correct?

    1. Under this system the entire project is funded by the government.
    2. The contractor is legally responsible to complete the project under some fixed predetermined timeline.
    3. All the clearances, land acquisition and regulatory norms have to be completed by the government itself

    Select the correct alternative from the following codes:

    a) 1 and 2

    b) Only 2

    c) Only 3

    d) All are correct

    Inspired by: [pib] India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-india-myanmar-thailand-trilateral-highway/

    Q.3) Consider the following statements:

    1. Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) is considered to be an indicator of milk quality.
    2. Its presence after pasteurization indicates presence of microbes that may not have been rendered inactive with pasteurization.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    a) Only 1

    b) Only 2

    c) Both 1 and 2

    d) Neither 1 nor 2

    Inspired by: A paper sensor that can detect freshness of milk

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/a-paper-sensor-that-can-detect-freshness-of-milk/

    Q.4) The Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) is released by:

    a) UNFCCC

    b) UN Environment

    c) IPCC

    d) None of the above

    Inspired by: Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) 2019

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/climate-change-performance-index-ccpi-2019/

    Q.5) Makaravilakku Festival recently seen in news is celebrated in which of the following states?

    a) Tamil Nadu

    b) Kerala

    c) Karnataka

    d) All of the above

    Inspired by: Times of India

     

     

    For Solutions – Click Here

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  • 3rd January 2018 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

    Q.1) The Green – Ag Project recently seen in news is an initiative of:

    a) FAO

    b) Global Environment Facility

    c) Both a and b

    d) None of a, b and c

    Inspired by: [pib] Green – Ag Project

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-green-ag-project/

    Q.2) With reference to the Yarn Bank Scheme, which of the given statements is/are correct?

    1. It is aimed to curb fluctuation in yarn price.
    2. It provides interest free corpus fund up to Rs.200 crore to the Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV)/Consortium formed by powerloom weavers.
    3. It seeks to avoid middle man/ local supplier’s brokerage charge on sales of yarn.

    Select the correct alternative from the following codes:

    a) All are correct

    b) 1 and 2

    c) 1 and 3

    d) Only 1

    Inspired by: [pib] Yarn Bank Scheme

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-yarn-bank-scheme/

    Q.3) PARIVESH Portal recently seen in news is related to:

    a) MSME sector

    b) FDI

    c) Environment Clearances

    d) Climate Change

    Inspired by: States to rollout ‘PARIVESH’ by January 15

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/states-to-rollout-parivesh-by-january-15/

    Q.4) Asia Reassurance Initiative Act (ARIA) recently seen in news is an initiative of:

    a) European Union

    b) China

    c) G5

    d) USA

    Inspired by: Trump Signs Asia Reassurance Initiative Act Into Law

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/trump-signs-asia-reassurance-initiative-act-into-law/

    Q.5) The Alma Ata Declaration recently seen in news is related to:

    a) Biodiversity

    b) Health

    c) Space

    d) None of the above

    Inspired by: The Hindu

     

     

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    Prelims Daily Archive – Click here

  • [RSTV-Big Picture]-India’s Role in Afghanistan

    Developmental assistance can play a major role in transforming Afghanistan,official sources said on 3 January, rejecting US President Donald Trump’s jibe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over funding of a “library” in the war-ravaged country. Trump had taken a jibe at PM Modi for funding a “library” in Afghanistan, saying it is of no use in the war-torn country as he criticised India and others for not doing enough for the nation’s security.

    In his first cabinet meeting in the new year on 1st Jan,Trump asked India,Russia,Pakistan and other neighbouring countries to take responsibility for Afghanistan’s security as he defended his push for the US to invest less overseas.

    India may be building small libraries as part of the community development initiative,but most of its investments in Afghanistan were on mega infrastructure projects including the 218 km road from Zaranj to Delaram,the Salma Dam and the new Afghan Parliament building.India has also been supplying military equipment to Afghanistan besides providing training to hundreds of Afghan security personnel.

  • [RSTV-Big Picture]-Defiant Taiwan,Adamant China

    Taiwan’s President Tsai Ing-wen on Wednesday rejected the Chinese President Xi Jinping’s call for unification under a “one country, two systems” approach.

    Tsai said her island of 23 million people would never accept the approach proposed by Beijing.One country, two systems refers to a framework similar to Hong Kong in which the territory became part of China but retained a degree of autonomy.

    Taiwan and China split in a civil war that brought the Communist Party to power in China in 1949.The rival nationalists set up their own government on Taiwan,an island 160km off the Chinese mainland.

  • 2nd January 2018 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

    Q.1) Consider the following statements with respect to the Financial Stability and Development Council (FSDC):

    1. The idea to create FSDC was first incepted by the Raghuram Rajan Committee in 2008.
    2. The FSDC is headed by the RBI Governor.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    a) Only 1

    b) Only 2

    c) Both 1 and 2

    d) Neither 1 nor 2

    Inspired by: CNBC

    Q.2) The Mohan Reddy Committee Recommendations recently seen in news are related to:

    a) Engineering Education

    b) Research Fellowship

    c) Entrepreneurship

    d) None of the above

    Inspired by: No new Engineering Colleges from 2020

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/no-new-engineering-colleges-from-2020/

    Q.3) Recently Japan has announced its withdrawal from the International Whaling Commission (IWC). With reference to the IWC, which of the given statements is/are incorrect?

    1. IWC is a constituent body under the United Nations.
    2. The body is the first piece of International Environmental Legislation established in 1946.
    3. IWC completely bans commercial hunting of all breeds of Whales.

    Select the correct alternative from following codes:

    a) Only 1

    b) Only 2

    c) 1 and 3

    d) 2 and 3

    Inspired by: Japan announces withdrawal from International Whaling Commission

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/japan-announces-withdrawal-from-international-whaling-commission/

    Q.4) Consider the following statements about Indian Bridge Management System (IBMS):

    1. It aims to identify, survey and inventorize the number of bridges and other structures on National Highways only.
    2. It crucially helps identify the distressed bridges which need immediate attention.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    a) Only 1

    b) Only 2

    c) Both 1 and 2

    d) Neither 1 nor 2

    Inspired by: [pib] Indian Bridge Management System (IBMS)

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-indian-bridge-management-system-ibms/

    Q.5) The concept of Agri Export Zone (AEZ) was initiated by:

    a) Ministry of Commerce

    b) Ministry of Trade and Industry

    c) Ministry of MSMEs

    d) NITI Aayog

    Inspired by: [pib] No Agri Export Zones (AEZs) after 2004

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-no-agri-export-zones-aezs-after-2004/

    For Solutions – Click Here

    Prelims Daily Archive – Click here

  • Agri Export Policy – Comprehensive Notes

    Distribution:

    Note4Students

    One of the most important policies announced this year. Cannot be missed at any cost.

    Context

    • The Union Cabinet has approved the Agriculture Export Policy, 2018.
    • The Cabinet has also approved the proposal for the establishment of Monitoring Framework at Centre with Commerce as the nodal Department with representation from various line Ministries/Departments and Agencies and representatives of concerned State Governments, to oversee the implementation of Agriculture Export Policy.
    • The Government has come out with a policy to double farmers’ income by 2022.

    Overview

    • Today, India ranks second worldwide in farm output. The economic contribution of agriculture to India’s GDP is steadily declining with the country’s broad-based economic growth, yet, having nearly 50% of the population dependent on it for livelihood.
    • Agriculture, along with fisheries and forestry, is one of the largest contributors to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). As per the estimates by the Central Statistics Office (CSO), the share of agriculture and allied sectors (including agriculture, livestock, forestry, and fishery) is expected to be 17.3 percent of the Gross Value Added (GVA) during 2016-17 at 2011-12 prices.
    • The Department of Agriculture and Cooperation under the Ministry of Agriculture is responsible for the development of the agriculture sector in India. It manages several other bodies, such as the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), to develop other allied agricultural sectors.
    • Horticultural crops occupy 10% of Gross cropped area and producing 160.75 m tones. Total production of fruits is at 49.36 m tones and vegetables are at 93 m tones.
    • Animal husbandry output constitutes about 32% of the country’s agricultural output. The contribution of this sector to the total GDP during 2006-07 was 5.26%.
    • India is the highest producer of milk and the second highest producer of fruits and vegetables.
    • India accounts for 57% of the world’s buffalo population and 14% of cattle population.
    • India holds the 6th place with 7% world’s market share in medicinal and aromatic plants.

    Objectives

    Objectives of the Agriculture Export Policy are as under:

    • To double agricultural exports from the present US $ 30+ Billion to US $ 60+ Billion by 2022 and reach US $ 100 Billion in the next few years thereafter, with a stable trade policy regime.
    • To diversify our export basket, destinations and boost high value and value-added agricultural exports including a focus on perishables.
    • To promote novel, indigenous, organic, ethnic, traditional and non-traditional Agri products exports.
    • To provide an institutional mechanism for pursuing market access, tackling barriers and deal with sanitary and phytosanitary issues.
    • To strive to double India’s share in world agri exports by integrating with global value chain at the earliest.
    • Enable farmers to get the benefit of export opportunities in the overseas market.

    Need

    With India moving out of the income bracket of per capita gross national income of less than $1000, it is not allowed by the WTO to give export sops.

    • The government has committed to double the farmers’ income by 2022 and promoting agricultural exports will give an impetus to achieving the goal.
    • Promoting agricultural export requires integrating Indian farmers and agricultural products with global value chains. This requires a policy direction.
    • Increasing agricultural exports would require greater thrust on value-added products, promotion, and branding of the produce of India.
    • Improving India’s reliability as a global supplier of farm products is also one of the deliverables of the policy. The Agricultural export policy can give a direction to this.
    • There is a need for synergy between Central and State governments, as Agriculture and allied activities are under the state list.
    • India’s export of value-added products is very low and there is the huge scope of improvement”. The share of India’s high-value and value-added agriculture produce in its agriculture export basket is less than 15 percent compared to 25 percent in the US and 49 percent in China.

    What are the concerns addressed?

    Trade –

    • India is today a leading global producer of foodgrain, dairy and several horticultural crops.
    • But it holds a minuscule 2.2% share in global agri-exports.
    • It is stuck at the lowest rung of the value chain, and India’s farm exports are highly reliant on a handful of commodities.
    • These include marine products, meat, rice and plantation crops.

    Shortfalls –

    • Exports even in these items are frequently interrupted by self-imposed and arbitrary trade curbs.
    • State-level curbs on movement of produce add to already high costs from fragmented farms and poor logistics.
    • High rejection rates on consignments due to poor quality, antibiotic and pesticide residues and other phytosanitary grounds are major concerns.

    Farmers –

    • Bumper crops continued to trigger a meltdown in food prices.
    • Policy interventions such as e-Nam and the repeal of the APMC Acts by States have made scant progress.

    Policy –

    • Domestic price and production volatility of certain agricultural commodities lead to using the existing policy for short-term goals.
    • These include taming inflation, providing price support to farmers and protecting the domestic industry.
    • These decisions may serve the immediate purpose of maintaining domestic price equilibrium.
    • However, they end up distorting India’s image in international trade as a long-term and reliable supplier.
    • It is thus imperative to frame a stable and predictable policy.

    Elements of Agriculture Export Policy

    The Agriculture Export Policy encompasses Strategic and Operational elements. These are:

    Strategic Operational
    • Policy measures
    • Infrastructure and logistics support
    • Holistic approach to boost exports
    • Greater involvement of State Governments in agri exports
    • Focus on Clusters
    • Promoting value-added exports
    • Marketing and promotion of “Brand India
    • Attract private investments into production and processing
    • Establishment of a strong quality regimen
    • Research & Development
    • Miscellaneous

    What are the key recommendations?

    Infrastructure – The policy stresses on improving the infrastructure, and storage and exit point logistics.

    • It suggested a comprehensive need-gap analysis of existing export-oriented infrastructure across the value chain for this.

    R&D – The policy emphasized promoting R&D activities for new product development for the upcoming markets.

    • Increased focus on R&D, new varieties and state of the art lab for effective accreditation and monitoring are called for.
    • This will be part of the efforts towards establishing a strong quality regime.
    • Besides, the policy stressed the need to ensure greater interaction between the various research organizations and industry bodies.

    Exports – The policy aims to boost high value and value-added agricultural exports, focusing on perishables.

    • Improving the institutional mechanism for tackling market access barriers is suggested as a measure.
    • Dealing with sanitary and phytosanitary issues are also the priorities.
    • Processed agricultural products and all kinds of organic products will not be brought under any kind of export restriction.

    APMC – Monopoly of the Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) is a long existing concern.

    • It prevents private players from setting up markets and investing in market infrastructure.
    • APMC across states have not been able to achieve farmers’ welfare envisaged in these acts.
    • The policy hinted at continuing the efforts with state governments to remove perishables from their APMC Acts.
    • It also suggested better coordination between central ministries that are now working at cross-purposes.

    Mandi – State governments would also be urged to standardize/ rationalize mandi taxes for largely exported agricultural products.

    • Simplification or uniformity of mandi/agricultural fee across states will create a transparent supply chain.
    • This will empower the farmers, providing wider access to markets and enabling free trade across the country.

    Products – It is proposed that the agricultural export policy must focus on the promotion of value-added, indigenous and tribal products.

    • Development of organic export zones/organic Food park with an integrated approach is suggested to help promote shipments.

    Agency – Global bodies like US FDA and the European Food Safety Authority are empowered to frame, regulate and implement policies related to both agricultural production and trade.

    • The draft policy considered working towards bringing in similar agencies in India.

    Besides the policy made a case for promoting contract farming as it would help in attracting investments.

    • Some of the other notable recommendations include:
    1. promotion of region-specific clusters for lucrative crops
    2. coordinated branding efforts
    3. a shared database for exporters on market intelligence and export rejects
    4. quality assurance at the farm
    5. wider adoption of land leases

    Other Initiatives needed

    • ‘More from less’ should be the aim of agriculture because rapid industrialization and climate change have raised the scarcity value of land and water.
    • Indian agriculture is the victim of the Green Revolution’s success. It has become cereal-centric, regionally-biased and resource-intensive. A rainbow revolution must follow the green and white revolutions.
    • Genetically modified crop technologies have ‘significant net benefits.’ Evolved regulation is needed to allay public fears so they can be deployed.
    • Pulses and oilseeds must be supported with procurement and support prices that reflect their social contribution – less water use and enrichment of soil with atmospheric nitrogen.
    • Advancements in Seed Technology – New varieties need to be tested and seeds of these varieties should be made available to the farmers for cultivation in the regions in which it is suitable.
    • Regulatory measures for quality seed production have to be tightened so as to discourage the sale of spurious seeds to the farmers.
    • Subsidies on power must end to curb water wastage. Cheap power makes India a net exporter of water through commodities like cotton, sugar and soybean, while China is a net importer of water through soybean, cotton, meat and grains.
    • Agricultural research has the biggest impact on yield and profitability but it is weak in states where agriculture is relatively more important (eastern and northern states, except Punjab and Haryana).
    • The private sector must be enticed into pulses research (which it has shunned) by offering a ‘disproportionately large enough award’ to the winner for innovating in desirable traits, but the intellectual property rights must vest with the government. There should be equal treatment of the private, public and citizen sectors in this respect.

    Conclusion

    The recent initiatives taken by the Government are definitely steps taken in the right direction. The agreements signed between India and Israel further underscore the fact how water management and judicious usage of limited resources is vital for a thriving agricultural sector.

    • Recent developments further underscore the fact that India urgently needs to diversify its cropping pattern- this will help conserve moisture and thus help in the judicious use of resources. Efforts described above can further the objective of the Government of doubling farmer’s income by the year 2022.
    • Such an effort would involve the collective participation of various stakeholders, including the wider farming community, pressure groups, private sector, banking sector, and both the central and state governments.

  • 31st December 2018 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

    Q.1) The Sailesh Nayak Committee Recommendations are related to:

    a) Coastal Regulations Zone

    b) Biogeographic Zones of India

    c) Gangetic River Dolphin

    d) None of the above

    Inspired by: Govt’s reason for CRZ amendments

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/govts-reason-for-crz-amendments/

    Q.2) Consider the following statements with respect to the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI):

    1. It is a international body under the FAO.
    2. It is known for its work in developing rice varieties that contributed to the Green Revolution in the 1960s.
    3. The famous IR8 which saved India from famine in the 1960s was developed by IRRI.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    a) All are correct

    b) 1 and 2

    c) 2 and 3

    d) Only 1

    Inspired by: PM inaugurates Rice Research Institute, to improve production of crop

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pm-inaugurates-rice-research-institute-to-improve-production-of-crop/

    Q.3) The Aichi Targets on Biodiversity were adopted at the:

    a) Kyoto Protocol

    b) Cartagena Protocol

    c) Nagoya Protocol

    d) None of the above

    Inspired by: India submits sixth national report to Convention of Biological Diversity

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/india-submits-sixth-national-report-to-convention-of-biological-diversity/

    Q.4) The COMPASS is the global satellite navigation system of which of the following countries?

    a) Ukraine

    b) South Korea

    c) China

    d) Japan

    Inspired by: China’s BeiDou navigation satellite, rival to US GPS, starts global services

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/chinas-beidou-navigation-satellite-rival-to-us-gps-starts-global-services/

    Q.5) The Chang’e-4 mission of Peoples Republic of China is an initiative related to the probe of:

    a) Solar Corona

    b) Life on Mars

    c) Poles of the Moon

    d) Sunspots

    Inspired by: SpaceNews

     

     

    For Solutions – Click Here

    Prelims Daily Archive – Click here

  • [RSTV-Big Picture]-Bangladesh Elections

    Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has secured a massive victory in the parliamentary polls for the third straight time. This victory makes her longest serving Prime Minister of the country giving her four terms.

    As per the official reports from Dhaka, the ruling party Awami League and its allies have won 288 of the 300 parliamentary seats contested well surpassing their tally in the previous polls.

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi Monday has also congratulated Sheikh Hasina on her victory, saying “Hasina’s victory was the reflection of Bangladesh’s stunning development under her dynamic leadership”.Both India and Bangladesh share long and special ties and the stability of Bangladesh is prized by India given the strategic and political significance of the south-east Asian nation.

    The 71-year-old leader, daughter of Bangladesh’s founding statesman Shiekh Mujibur Rehman has been lauded for boosting the economic growth of the country as well as handling Rohingya refugee crisis considered to be a massive humanitarian crisis to have hit region.

    Meanwhile, the opposition has questioned the polls, which saw violence in some pockets and death of 17 persons.The main opposition party Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP),which had boycotted the polls in 2014 could win only 6 seats this time.

  • 29th December 2018 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

    Q.1) Recently the Centre has instituted annual Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskaar to recognise the excellent work done by individuals and institutions in the country in the field of disaster management. With reference to this award, consider the following statements:

    1. The award will be given by the National Disaster Management Authority.
    2. It can be awarded to individuals as well as organisations.
    3. Only Indian nationals and Indian institutions can apply for the award.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    a) Only 1

    b) 1 and 2

    c) 1 and 3

    d) All are correct

    Inspired by: Govt institutes annual awards to recognise excellent work in disaster management

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/govt-institutes-annual-awards-to-recognise-excellent-work-in-disaster-management/

    Q.2) With reference to the Biennial Update Report (BUR) given by India to the UNFCCC, consider the following statements:

    1. India had submitted its first report in 2016.
    2. Energy sector is the prime contributor of India’s carbon emission, suggests 2nd report report.
    3. Only developing countries are obligated to submit such reports.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    a) Only 1

    b) 1 and 2

    c) 2 and 3

    d) All are correct

    Inspired by: Govt approves submission of India’s second Biennial Update Report to UNFCCC

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/govt-approves-submission-of-indias-second-biennial-update-report-to-unfccc/

    Q.3) The Sowarigpa system of medicines is native to which of the following countries?

    a) Tibet

    b) Bhutan

    c) Myanmar

    d) China

    Inspired by: [pib] Cabinet approves setting up of the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine Bill, 2018

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-cabinet-approves-setting-up-of-the-national-commission-for-indian-system-of-medicine-bill-2018/

    Q.4) Which of the following system of medicines is not supposed to be regulated by the proposed National Commission for Indian Systems of Medicine (NCIM)?

    1. Ayurveda
    2. Homeopathy
    3. Sowarigpa
    4. Unani

    Select the correct alternative:

    a) 2, 3 and 4

    b) 2 and 3

    c) 2 only

    d) 2 and 4

    Inspired by: [pib] Cabinet approves setting up of the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine Bill, 2018

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-cabinet-approves-setting-up-of-the-national-commission-for-indian-system-of-medicine-bill-2018/

    Q.5) With reference to art and archaeological history of India, which one among the following was made earliest?

    a) Lingaraja Temple at Bhubaneswar

    b) Rock-cut Elephant at Dhauli

    c) Rock-cut Monuments at Mahabalipuram

    d) Varaha Image at Udayagiri

    Inspired by: CSP 2015

     

    For Solutions – Click Here

    Prelims Daily Archive – Click here

  • 28th December 2018 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

    Q.1)  The V Subrahmanyam (1997), Usha Thorat (2004) and Y H Malegam (2013) Committees  are related to :

    a) Capital Reserves of RBI

    b) NPA Issue

    c) Farm Loan Waiver

    d) None of these

    Inspired by: Economic Capital Framework Committee of RBI

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/economic-capital-framework-committee-of-rbi/

    Q.2) The Arribadas sometimes seen in news is a word for:

    a) Mass nesting of Olive Ridleys

    b) Hatchling of Olive Ridleys

    c) Local word for eggs of Olive Ridleys

    d) None of the above

    Inspired by: Another olive ridley nesting site soon

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/another-olive-ridley-nesting-site-soon/

    Q.3) With reference to the conservations of Gangetic Dolphin in India, consider the following statements:

    1. Gangetic river dolphins fall under Schedule I of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act.
    2. It has been declared a ‘critically endangered’ species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
    3. The Gangetic River species found in India, Bangladesh and Nepal is almost completely blind.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    a) Only 1

    b) 1 and 2

    c) 1 and 3

    d) None of the above

    Inspired by: River Dolphins go missing in Sunderbans as water salinity rises

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/river-dolphins-go-missing-in-sunderbans-as-water-salinity-rises/

    Q.4) The Avangard Missile Systems sometimes seen in news is a hypersonic ballistic missile with an unmanned glider vehicle unveiled by:

    a) Israel

    b) Russia

    c) USA

    d) UK

    Inspired by: Russia ‘successfully’ tests hypersonic missile

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/russia-successfully-tests-hypersonic-missile/

    Q.5) The Dwijing Festival recently seen in news is celebrated in which of the following states?

    a) West Bengal

    b) Manipur

    c) Assam

    d) Nagaland

    Inspired by: Times of India

     

    For Solutions – Click Here

    Prelims Daily Archive – Click here