Civilsdaily

Author: Explains

  • 14 August 2018 | High Relevance vs Low Relevance News

    Reading News for UPSC is utmost important and rising number of questions year on year in UPSC Prelims is a testimony of this

    We are starting a daily series where we will analyze news covered in The Hindu, Indian Express and other newspapers which are important from exam perspective and which are not

    Important news would have been covered in our daily news coverage in form of newscards.

    Unimportant ones will be mentioned here and a short description regarding why it is not relevant for the exam

    Click on news headlines to read the full news

    High relevance news

    [op-ed snap] How India should close the financial gender gap

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/op-ed-snap-how-india-should-close-the-financial-gender-gap/

    A detailed editorial discussing obstacles in financial inclusion for women. Very important for Mains.

    [op-ed snap] Huff and e-puff: On e-cigarette ban

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/op-ed-snap-huff-and-e-puff-on-e-cigarette-ban/

    Ban culture is now dominating the policy-making process instead of finding viable solutions to the problems. Recent proposal to ban e-cigarettes is in the same line. Read the editorial to understand the issue and possible alternates.

    National Wildlife Genetic Resource Bank dedicated to nation 

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/national-wildlife-genetic-resource-bank-dedicated-to-nation/

    Read about Gene Resource Bank, LaCONES. can be asked in Prelims.

    Pune tops Ease of Living index; Patna ranked lowest of 111 cities

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pune-tops-ease-of-living-index-patna-ranked-lowest-of-111-cities/

    A new index to assess India’s cities. Read and note the parameters and other related details. Can be asked in Pre as well as Mains.

    [pib] First project under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme the ‘North East Circuit to be inaugurated

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-first-project-under-the-swadesh-darshan-scheme-the-north-east-circuit-to-be-inaugurated/

    Read about Swadesh darshan scheme. Can be asked in Prelims.

    Low Relevance News

    JCOs are gazetted officers, says Defence Ministry

    Junior Commissioned Officers (JCO) in the Indian military are gazetted officers, the Defence Ministry has clarified in an order issued on August 1. The clarification follows a long-standing controversy over the issue

    No important points from exam point of view.

  • 13 August 2018 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

    Q.1) Consider the following statement about Parker Solar Probe:

    1. It is aimed to study the sun’s outer atmosphere, or corona, which is much hotter than the solar surface.

    2. The Solar Probe Cup is a sensor that will extend beyond the heat shield to take samples of the Sun’s atmosphere.

    3. The mission will be orbiting the sun until the end of the solar system.

    Which of the given statements is/are not correct?

    a) 1 and 3

    b) 2 and 3

    c) Only 3

    d) All are incorrect

    Inspired by: Parker, world’s first mission to Sun lifts off

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/parker-worlds-first-mission-to-sun-lifts-off/

    Q.2) Solar Orbiter or SolO, is solar mission of which of the following states?

    a) Germany

    b) France

    c) UK

    d) Australia

    Inspired by: Parker, world’s first mission to Sun lifts off

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/parker-worlds-first-mission-to-sun-lifts-off/

    Q.3) Tropical Tasar, Multivoltine x Bivoltine and Eri are breeds of which of the following?

    a) Bovines

    b) Goats

    c) Silkworm

    d) Sheep

    Inspired by: [pib] Central Silk Board Notifies Recently Developed Races of Silk Worm Seed

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-central-silk-board-notifies-recently-developed-races-of-silk-worm-seed/

    Q.4) PEGylated Streptokinase, a clot buster developed by CSIR-Institute of Microbial Technology (CSIR-IMTECH), Chandigarh is used for the treatment of which of the following disease?

    a) Ischemic strokes

    b) Brain Hemorrhage

    c) Cardiac Arrest

    d) Gangrene

    Inspired by: [pib] CSIR’s new patented Clot buster, PEGylated Streptokinase set to revolutionize the treatment of Strokes

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-csirs-new-patented-clot-buster-pegylated-streptokinase-set-to-revolutionize-the-treatment-of-strokes/

    Q.5) Harsh Mander v. Union of India and Karnika Sawhney v. Union of India Judgments are related to which of the following issue?

    a) De-criminalizing begging

    b) SC/ST reservations in Promotion

    c) Continuance of Reservation for SCs and STs

    d) Against Mob Lynching

    Inspired by: [op-ed snap] Undoing a legacy of injustice

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/op-ed-snap-undoing-a-legacy-of-injustice/

     

    For Solutions – Click Here

    Prelims Daily Archive – Click here

     

  • [Burning Issue] Special Category States (SCS)

    Image result for Special Category States (SCS)


    Meaning and history of the term SCS

    • SCS is a classification given by Centre to assist in the development of those states that face geographical & socio-economic disadvantages like hilly terrains, strategic international borders, economic & infrastructural backwardness and non-viable state finances.
    • Introduced in 1969.
    • 5th Finance Commission sought to provide certain disadvantaged states with preferential treatment in the form of central assistance and tax breaks.
    • National Development Council grants the status of Special Category States.
    • Initially three states Assam, Nagaland and Jammu & Kashmir.
    • Since then eight more have been included – Arunachal Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Sikkim, Tripura and Uttarakhand.
    • Direct transfers subsequently abolished in 2013–14.
    • In 2013, Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS) were restructured into 66 schemes, including 17 flagship programmes with significant outlays.
    • In 2016, CSS restructured into only 28 schemes.
    • From 2017–18, the distinction between plan and non-plan expenditure removed,
    • Therefore the Gadgil formula is a thing of the past

    Related image

    The criteria for granting special status:

    • Hilly and difficult terrain
    • Low population density or sizeable share of tribal population
    • Strategic location along borders with neighbouring countries
    • Economic and infrastructural backwardness
    • Non-viable nature of state finances.

    Advantages of getting special category status

    • Preferential treatment in federal assistance and tax break
    • Significant excise duty concessions.
    • An interest-free loan with a rationalization of public expenditure based on the growth enhancing sectoral allocation of resources.
    • SCS don’t have a hard budget constraint as the central transfer is high.
    • SCSs avail the benefit of debt swapping and debt relief schemes (through the enactment of Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management Act) which facilitate reduction of the average annual rate of interest.
    • 30% of the Centre’s gross budget goes to the SCSs.
    • In centrally sponsored schemes and external aid special category states get it in the ratio of 90% grants and 10% loans.
    • Income tax holidays for 10 years for setting up new industries, extendable by a further period of five years upon “substantial expansion” of the existing units.
    • Unspent money does not lapse and gets carry forward.

    Concerns regarding SCS

    • In the absence of the market, infrastructure, especially power, entrepreneurial skills and local resources, these incentives had hardly helped these states to industrialise.
    • Not much economic progress has been noticed among SCS.
    • Overwhelmingly dependent on central funding.
    • Benefits flow regularly without any accountability or performance monitoring of the states.
    • The amount of proceeds that states receive has increased after the 14th finance commission. So the structure does not seem to have any specific relevance in present context.
    • SCS has been reduced to a political rallying point.
    • Benefit of SCS may act as a stimulus but rest depends on the individual state policy.

    14th Finance Commission on SCS

    • The 14th FC does not make any mention of SCS.
    • Its recommendations have been inferred as removing SCS.
    • FC provided a fixed share of states in the net proceeds of the shareable central taxes at 42%.
    • It has been interpreted as removing the distinction between general states and SCS and grant funds on the basis of backwardness of states.
    • The interstate inequalities to be addressed through adequate tax devolutions and grants.
    • Only SCS status was restricted to the states of North-east and three hill states.
    • Under FC, some states to receive revenue deficit grants.
    • States now have much more fiscal space to spend on their own priorities, instead of depending on the centre.

    Fiscal Cooperative Federalism

    • The taxes are divided among the states on the principles of equity and efficiency.
    • From the 6th FC onwards, the FCs recommended only non-plan grants.
    • The plan component was under the Planning Commission.
    • Most of the discretionary transfers were made via the centrally sponsored schemes (CSS)
    • Large part of the total transfers were made outside the state budgets, by direct transfer of funds from the Consolidated Fund of India to the implementing agencies in the states.
    • Discretionary direct transfers have been abolished now.
    • CSS reduced in number and restructured
    • The distinction between plan and non-plan expenditure is no more.
    • The NCA has also since been done away with.

    Criticism received by the 14th FC

    • The 14th FC attracted severe criticisms on grounds of equity and efficiency.
    • Equalisation, equity and efficiency have always guided FC transfers
    • It ensured that same standards of delivery of public services extended to all states
    • This practice was aimed to prevent economic migrations across states.
    • But there are now no efficiency criteria for the transfers.
    • States, especially poor states, that have kept within their Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management Act (FRBM) limits, have been made to suffer a cut in their shares instead of being rewarded for maintaining fiscal discipline.
    • Even when these states controlled spending at the cost of limiting their capital
      borrowings despite huge infrastructure deficits.
    • But there were no rewards for resisting populism.

    But are SCSs really suffering?

    • Whether there has been a reduction in the resources of SCSs?
    • Whether SCSs have managed to retain their relative advantages vis-a-vis other states?
    • For the SCSs as a whole, the total transfers during the first year under the XIV-FC over the previous year had actually increased by 24.7%, more than most other states.
    • The tax devolutions for the SCS increased by almost 90%.
    • The shares of SCS did not suffered any cut.
    • They had in fact registered much higher increases than under the previous commissions
    • Regarding the relative advantages enjoyed by the SCS, the latest restructuring of the CSS had made an important distinction between these and the other states, in terms of the funding pattern of these schemes.
    • For the “core of the core” schemes, it envisaged that the existing funding patterns would continue, which is 90:10 for the SCS between the centre and states, while other states have to bear a higher proportion of expenditure on their own.
    • For the “core” schemes, the restructured CSS states that the 90:10 formula between the centre and states would apply “for the 8 North Eastern States and 3 Himalayan States,” while it would be 60:40 for the other states.
    • Thus, the SCS continue to retain their relative advantages over the other states.
    • In other words, the category is far from being a thing of the past.

    Revisiting Special Category

    • The benefits of SCS are still there
    • Therefore it is important to correct the flaws in the mechanism.
    • There is a need to address the deep-rooted structural weaknesses that afflicted SCSs.
    • Re-examine the continuation of the SCS a state in perpetuity.
    • Adopting a target-based, time-bound arrangement that is focused on accountability, performance, and monitoring of achievements, with specific performance goals to be achieved by the beneficiary states for the benefits to continue.
    • We need a strategy in which funding would be just one essential element and not the most important part.
    • SCSs need supporting institutional set-up adequate to guide them towards predefined goals.
    • Monitoring and accountability and granting of the SCS to a state should be through performance expectation.

  • 11 August 2018 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

    Q.1) Consider the following statements about SCO Peace Mission Exercise, 2018:

    1. The exercise will be held in Chengdu, China.

    2. It will involve tactical level operations in an international counter-insurgency or counter-terrorism environment under SCO Charter.

    3. Indian and Pak Army will participate together for the first time in missions other than UN Peacekeeping.

    Which of the given statement is/are correct?

    a) Only 1

    b) 1 and 3

    c) 2 and 3

    d) All are incorrect

    Inspired by: [pib] Exercise SCO Peace Mission 2018

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-exercise-sco-peace-mission-2018/

    Q.2) Consider the following statements about India Science Technology and Innovation portal:

    1. It is developed by Union HRD Ministry.

    2. The portal allows access to students about various fellowships, scholarships and funding and startup opportunities that India puts on their plate.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    a) Only 1

    b) Only 2

    c) Both 1 and 2

    d) None of the above

    Answer: (b)

    Inspired by: Centre launches portal for scientific research, funding

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/centre-launches-portal-for-scientific-research-funding/

    Q.3) Consider the following statements about PARIVESH portal:

    1. It is developed by MoEFCC and NIC.

    2. It will use Geographic Information System (GIS) interface.

    3. The portal automates the entire process of submitting the application and tracking the status of such proposals at each stage of processing.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    a) 1 and 2

    b) 2 and 3

    c) 1 and 3

    d) All are correct

    Inspired by: [pib] “PARIVESH” – an environmental single window hub for Environment, Forest, Wildlife and CRZ clearances launched

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-parivesh-an-environmental-single-window-hub-for-environment-forest-wildlife-and-crz-clearances-launched/

    The facility of Geographic Information System (GIS) interface will help them in analyzing the proposal efficiently, automatic alerts (via SMS and emails) at important stages to the concerned officers, committee members and higher authorities to check the delays if any.

    Q.4) Hoplobatrachus tigerinus is a scientific name of which of the following species?

    a) Royal Bengal Tiger

    b) Tiger Shark

    c) Bullfrog

    d) Tasmanian Tiger

    Inspired by: Indian bull frog: the Andamans’ new colonizers

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/indian-bull-frog-the-andamans-new-colonisers/

    Q.5) Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT) is located in which of the following Indian city?

    a) Pune

    b) Jaipur

    c) Surat

    d) Sriharikota

    Inspired by: Indian telescope spots distant radio galaxy

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/indian-telescope-spots-distant-radio-galaxy/

     

    For Solutions – Click Here

    Prelims Daily Archive – Click here

     

  • 13 August 2018 | High Relevance vs Low Relevance News

    Reading News for UPSC is utmost important and rising number of questions year on year in UPSC Prelims is a testimony of this

    We are starting a daily series where we will analyze news covered in The Hindu, Indian Express and other newspapers which are important from exam perspective and which are not

    Important news would have been covered in our daily news coverage in form of newscards.

    Unimportant ones will be mentioned here and a short description regarding why it is not relevant for the exam

    Click on news headlines to read the full news

    High relevance news

    More banks report tightening of credit standards, shows survey

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/more-banks-report-tightening-of-credit-standards-shows-survey/

    More and more banks are now coming in the ambit of NPA resolution process and the results can be seen in tightening of lending rules. Note important points for Mains.

    ISRO set to launch its TV channel

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-isro-set-to-launch-its-tv-channel/

    A necessary step in order to promote science education in India. Note details about the channel. Can be asked in Prelims.

    Bill to allow proxy voting by NRIs passed by Lok Sabha

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/bill-to-allow-proxy-voting-by-nris-passed-by-lok-sabha/

    Till now, proxy voting was only available to service personnel. This demand was pending for a long time as people were unable to use their right to vote due to their settlement/work in foreign countries. Know important provisions as well as the pros and cons of the bill for Mains.

    [op-ed snap] Undoing a legacy of injustice

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/op-ed-snap-undoing-a-legacy-of-injustice/

    Delhi HC has given a historic decision by scrapping Begging Act. The editorial sums up all facts related to it. Must read for Mains.

    Low Relevance News

    CJI changes subject-wise roster in Supreme Court

    The Chief Justice of India has changed the subject-wise roster for judges in the Supreme Court

    The subject-wise roster was first implemented from February 5 this year after a press conference by four seniormost Supreme Court judges over “selective” allocation of cases to certain Benches by recent CJIs

  • [Burning Issue] 5G Technology

    Image result for 5g technology in india

    Why in News?

    In June 2018, The 5G committee of the Telecom Ministry recommended that 6,000 MHz of spectrum can be made available without delay for the next generation 5G mobile service

    About 5G

    • 5G is the fifth generation mobile network.
    • It’s a unified platform which is much more capable than previous mobile services with more capacity, lower latency, faster data delivery rate and better utilisation of spectrum.
    • The standards for the usage of 5G are defined and driven by 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP).

    Timeline: Evolution from 1G to 5G

    • 1G: Launched in the 1980s. Analog radio signals and supported only voice calls.
    • 2G: Launched in the 1990s. Uses digital radio signals and supported both voice and data transmission with a BandWidth(BW) of 64 Kbps.
    • 3G: Launched in the 2000s. With a speed of 1 Mbps to 2 Mbps it has the ability to transmit telephone signal including digitised voice, video calls and conferencing.
    • 4G: With a peak speed of 100 Mbps-1 Gbps it also enables 3D virtual reality.
    • 5G: with a speed of more than 1Gbps,it is capable of connecting entire world without limits.

    Salient features

    • Capability: 5G will provide much faster mobile broadband service as compared to the previous versions and will provide support to previous services like mission critical communication and the massive Internet Of things(IoT).
    • Speed: With peak delivering rate of up to 20 Gbps and an average of 100Mbps, it will be much faster as compared to its predecessors.
    • Capacity: There will be up to 100 x increase in traffic capacity and network efficiency.
    • Spectrum usage: Will provide better usage for every bit of spectrum, from low bands below 1 GHz to high bands.
    • Latency: It’s expected to have lower latency with better instantaneous, real-time access of the data.
    • The 5G, like 4G LTE, also uses Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing(OFDM) but the new 5G NR(New Radio)air interface will enhance OFDM and provide better flexibility in data delivery.

    Applications Of 5G technology

    • High-Speed mobile network: 5G will revolutionize the mobile experience with supercharged wireless network. Compared to conventional mobile transmission technologies, voice and high-speed data can be simultaneously transferred efficiently in 5G
    • Entertainment and multimedia : 5G can provide 120 frames per second, high resolution and higher dynamic range video streaming without interruption. Audiovisual experience will be rewritten after the implementation of the latest technologies powered by 5G wireless. Augmented Reality and virtual Reality services will be better experienced over 5G.
    • Internet of Things : IoT applications collects huge amount of data from millions of devices and sensors and thus requires an efficient network for data collection, processing, transmission, control and real-time analytics which 5G network is a better candidate.

    • Smart cities : Smart city application like traffic management, Instant weather update, local area broadcasting, energy management, smart power grid, smart lighting of street, water resource management, crowd management, emergency response etc can use a reliable 5G wireless network for its functioning.

    • Smart farming : 5G technology will be used for agriculture and smart farming in the future. Using smart RFID sensors and GPS technology, farmers can track the location of livestock and manage them easily. Smart sensors can be used for irrigation control, access control and energy management.

    • Mission critical applications : Like telemedicine services, remote control of critical infrastructure and vehicles. It has the potential to transform industries with highly reliable, low latency link.

    High-Level 5G India 2020 forum

    Government has constituted High-Level 5G India 2020 Forum with three Secretaries of key Ministries/Departments Telecom, Meity and DST, and also comprising renowned experts. The primary aims of the forum are:

    • early deployment of 5G in India.
    • A globally competitive product development and manufacturing ecosystem targeting 50% of India market and 10% of global market over next 5 to 7 years.

    Conclusion

    The new 5G technology is expected to launch at the beginning of 2019. With the government push for Digital India, the 5G technology can be a game changer. It can help in better service delivery, faster access to services and deeper penetration of digital services

  • 11 August 2018 | High Relevance vs Low Relevance News

    Reading News for UPSC is utmost important and rising number of questions year on year in UPSC Prelims is a testimony of this

    We are starting a daily series where we will analyze news covered in The Hindu, Indian Express and other newspapers which are important from exam perspective and which are not

    Important news would have been covered in our daily news coverage in form of newscards.

    Unimportant ones will be mentioned here and a short description regarding why it is not relevant for the exam

    Click on news headlines to read the full news

    High relevance news

    [op-ed snap] Decoding the DNA Bill

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/op-ed-snap-decoding-the-dna-bill/

    The editorial discusses all issues related to DNA profiling bill. Read and make notes for Mains.

    NASA poised to blast off first spacecraft to explore Sun

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/nasa-poised-to-blast-off-first-spacecraft-to-explore-sun/

    Any news of new space mission by either ISRO or NASA is very important for Prelims. Now space missions are also being asked in Mains.

    [pib] “PARIVESH” – an environmental single window hub for Environment, Forest, Wildlife and CRZ clearances launched

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-parivesh-an-environmental-single-window-hub-for-environment-forest-wildlife-and-crz-clearances-launched/

    Important from prelims perspective.

    [pib] Exercise SCO Peace Mission 2018

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-exercise-sco-peace-mission-2018/

    A match the column type question on various bilateral exercises might appear in Prelims 2019. Remember these exercises.

    Low Relevance News

    Centre issues new order on cantonment roads

    The Defence Ministry issued a fresh statement on the closure of cantonment roads, reiterating most of what it had said in its previous orders

    No important points from exam perspective.

     

  • 10 August 2018 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

    Q.1) One District One Product is an initiative of which of the following state?

    a) Madhya Pradesh

    b) Rajasthan

    c) Uttar Pradesh

    d) Kerala

    Inspired by: [pib] One District One Product

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-one-district-one-product/

    Q.2) Consider the following statements about Train Captain Service:

    1. Train Captain will be the single person/leader responsible for coordinating the entire team and facilitating all services during the complete journey of the train.

    2. They will provide services only on selected trains like Rajdhani/ Shatabdi/ Duronto.

    3. Mostly Travelling Ticket Examiner (TTE) will be assigned charges of Train Captain Service.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    a) Only 1

    b) 1 and 2

    c) 1 and 3

    d) All are incorrect.

    Inspired by: [pib] Train Captain Service

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-train-captain-service/

    Q.3) Which of the given statements is/are correct about Global Innovation Index?

    1. It is released by World Economic Forum.

    2. It is based on data derived from several sources, including the International Telecommunication Union, the World Bank and the World Economic Forum.

    3. India’s rank on the Global Innovation Index (GII) has improved from 60 in 2017 to 57 in 2018.

    Select the correct codes from the following options.

    a) Only 1

    b) 1 and 2

    c) 2 and 3

    d) All are correct

    Inspired by: [pib] NITI Aayog to join hands with CII to develop a roadmap for Global Innovation Index

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-niti-aayog-to-join-hands-with-cii-to-develop-a-roadmap-for-global-innovation-index/

    Q.4) Consider the following statement about Serious Fraud Investigation Office:

    1. It is the office under Ministry of Home Affairs.

    2. It is the co-ordinating agency with the Income Tax Department and the Central Bureau of Investigation.

    3. It is a multi-disciplinary organization having experts from financial sector, capital market, accountancy, forensic audit, taxation, law, information technology, company law, customs and investigation.

    4. It is based on the recommendation of Naresh Chandra Committee.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    a) 1, 2 and 3

    b) 2, 3 and 4

    c) 1, 3 and 4

    d) All are correct.

    Inspired by: [pib] Serious Fraud Investigation Office

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-serious-fraud-investigation-office/

    Q.5) Global Slavery Index is released by which of the following organisation?

    a) UNHCR

    b) UN-ECOSOC

    c) Walk Free Foundation

    d) Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation

    Answer: (c)

    Inspired by: [op-ed snap] The anti-trafficking Bill is necessary

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/op-ed-snap-the-anti-trafficking-bill-is-necessary/

     

    For Solutions – Click Here

    Prelims Daily Archive – Click here

  • 10 August 2018 | High Relevance vs Low Relevance News

    Reading News for UPSC is utmost important and rising number of questions year on year in UPSC Prelims is a testimony of this

    We are starting a daily series where we will analyze news covered in The Hindu, Indian Express and other newspapers which are important from exam perspective and which are not

    Important news would have been covered in our daily news coverage in form of newscards.

    Unimportant ones will be mentioned here and a short description regarding why it is not relevant for the exam

    Click on news headlines to read the full news

    High relevance news

    [pib] NITI Aayog to join hands with CII to develop a roadmap for Global Innovation Index

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-niti-aayog-to-join-hands-with-cii-to-develop-a-roadmap-for-global-innovation-index/

    Read about GII and its details. Can be asked in Prelims.

    Explained: Thermal Battery

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/explained-thermal-battery/

    A first of its kind plant in the world has been set up in India and this itself makes the news important. Read about the thermal battery and all related details. Can be asked in Pre as well as Mains.

    [op-ed snap] Time for economic policy vigilance

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/op-ed-snap-time-for-economic-policy-vigilance/

    Indian economy is facing challenges from domestic as well as international front. The editorial discusses all these in detail and also recommends solutions to attain fiscal stability. Read and make notes for Mains.

    Low Relevance News

    Monsoon session: Most productive for Lok Sabha since 2000

    The Monsoon session of Parliament, which ended on Friday, was the “most productive” for Lok Sabha since 2000. The Lok Sabha worked for 110 per cent of the scheduled hours.

    No important details in news except the work done in the monsoon session.

  • 9 August 2018 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

    Q.1) Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve lies in which of the following state(s)?

    1. Sikkim

    2. Arunachal Pradesh

    3. Manipur

    4. Assam

    Select the correct codes:

    a) 1 and 2

    b) 2 ,3 and 4

    c) 2 only

    d) 1 only

    Inspired by: [pib] Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve becomes 11th Biosphere Reserve from India to be included in the World Network of Biosphere Reserves

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-khangchendzonga-biosphere-reserve-becomes-11th-biosphere-reserve-from-india-to-be-included-in-the-world-network-of-biosphere-reserves/

    Q.2) Consider the following statements about Niryat Mitra Mobile App:

    1. It is developed by National Informatics Center.

    2. It provides wide range of information required to undertake international trade right from the policy provisions for export and import, applicable GST rate, available export incentives, tariff etc.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    a) Only 1

    b) Only 2

    c) Both 1 and 2

    d) None of the above

    Inspired by: [pib] Mobile App Niryat Mitra

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-mobile-app-niryat-mitra/

    Q.3) Which of the given statements about Discovered Small Fields Policy is not correct?

    a) It is aimed at extracting the Oil, Natural gas from the un-monetized small oil/gas discoveries that are available in the country.

    b) It provides an easy investment option for new and existing players with minimal risk.

    c) ONGC is the nodal agency to see its implementation.

    d) It provides for Easy bidding process; minimum requirements; transparent award; swift processing of approvals.

    Inspired by: [pib] Bid round –II under ‘Discovered Small Field Policy’

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-bid-round-ii-under-discovered-small-field-policy/

    Q.4) Cosider the following statements about the Open Defecation Protocols under Swachh Bharat Missions:

    1. The SBM ODF+ protocol focuses on sustaining community/ public toilet usage by ensuring their functionality, cleanliness and maintenance.

    2. The SBM ODF++ will focus on achieving sanitation sustainability by addressing complete sanitation value chain, including safe containment, processing and disposal of fecal sludge and septage.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    a) Only 1

    b) Only 2

    c) Both 1 and 2

    d) None of the above

    Inspired by: [pib] Swachh Survekshan 2019, ODF+ & ODF ++ Protocols and Swachh Manch Web Portal

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-swachh-survekshan-2019-odf-odf-protocols-and-swachh-manch-web-portal/

    Q.5) A gradual, continuous change in the species composition between two ecosystems or communities of organisms across an environmental gradient is called as-

    a) Ecotype

    b) Ecocline

    c) Ecozone

    d) Ecotone

    Inspired by: [pib] Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve becomes 11th Biosphere Reserve from India to be included in the World Network of Biosphere Reserves

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-khangchendzonga-biosphere-reserve-becomes-11th-biosphere-reserve-from-india-to-be-included-in-the-world-network-of-biosphere-reserves/

     

    For Solutions – Click Here

    Prelims Daily Archive – Click here

     

  • 9 August 2018 | High Relevance vs Low Relevance News

    Reading News for UPSC is utmost important and rising number of questions year on year in UPSC Prelims is a testimony of this

    We are starting a daily series where we will analyze news covered in The Hindu, Indian Express and other newspapers which are important from exam perspective and which are not

    Important news would have been covered in our daily news coverage in form of newscards.

    Unimportant ones will be mentioned here and a short description regarding why it is not relevant for the exam

    Click on news headlines to read the full news

    High relevance news

    India faces a stern test of its commitment to RCEP

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/india-faces-a-stern-test-of-its-commitment-to-rcep/

    RCEP has been on cards for a long time. Now India has moved forward to take a final call on joining RCEP. Read the associated consequences for Mains and member countries for Prelims.

    [pib] Swachh Survekshan 2019, ODF+ & ODF ++ Protocols and Swachh Manch Web Portal

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-swachh-survekshan-2019-odf-odf-protocols-and-swachh-manch-web-portal/

    Read about swacch survekshan and associated parameters and agencies involved. Can be asked in Prelims. The change in mindset being brought by this campaign can be a topic for Mains.

    [op-ed snap] The urgent need for states to get fiscally fit

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/op-ed-snap-the-urgent-need-for-states-to-get-fiscally-fit/

    A detailed editorial highlighting the fiscal strain of states and measures to bring more revenue and better fiscal prudence. Must read for Mains.

    Low Relevance News

    NGT grants interim relief to Sterlite

    The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has granted Vedanta Limited access to its administrative section of the Sterlite Copper plant in Tuticorin. However, the green panel said that the production process will continue to remain shut

    No important things in news from the exam perspective

  • 8 August 2018 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

    Q.1) Bhoomi Project is an initiative of which of the following state?

    a) Andhra Pradesh

    b) Telangana

    c) Karnataka

    d) Madhya Pradesh

    Inspired by: [op-ed snap] The need for digitizing land records in India

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/op-ed-snap-the-need-for-digitizing-land-records-in-india/

    Q.2) Consider the following statements about Assistance for Prevention of Alcoholism and Substance (Drug) Abuse:

    1. It is an initiative Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

    2. It is Centrally Sponsored Scheme for identification, counselling, treatment and rehabilitation of addicts through voluntary and other eligible organizations.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    a) Only 1

    b) Only 2

    c) Both 1 and 2

    d) All are incorrect.

    Inspired by: [pib] Scheme of Assistance for Prevention of Alcoholism and Substance (Drug) Abuse

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-scheme-of-assistance-for-prevention-of-alcoholism-and-substance-drug-abuse/

    Q.3) Consider the following statements about provisions of Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2018. Which of them is/are correct?

    1. It provides for death sentence for the accused in case of rape victim is below 12 years of age.

    2. The act seeks to amend only POCSO Act.

    3. There is no provision for anticipatory bail in every case of rape irrespective of the age of the victim.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    a) 1 and 3

    b) 1 only

    c) 3 only

    d) All are correct

    Inspired by: Parliament clears Bill for death in rape cases

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/parliament-clears-bill-for-death-in-rape-cases/

    Q.4) Which of the given statements is/are correct about Restricted Areas Permit for the Andaman and Nicobar groups of Islands?

    1. It is aimed to promote tourism in 22 inhabited Island.

    2. It seeks to remove all restrictions required for visiting reserved forests, wildlife sanctuaries and tribal reserves.

    3. RAP is removed for all foreigners except the citizens of Afghanistan, Pakistan and China.

    Select the correct codes:

    a) Only 1

    b) 1 and 3

    c) 2 and 3

    d) All are correct

    Inspired by: Access to Andaman eased

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/access-to-andaman-eased/

    Q.5) Consider the following statements about Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989:

    1. It actually provides for no anticipatory bail, surpassing section 438 of the CrPC.

    2. It however provides for arrest of Public servant if accused of atrocity.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    a) Only 1

    b) Only 2

    c) None of the above

    d) All are correct.

    Inspired by: LS passes SC/ST amendment Bill

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/ls-passes-sc-st-amendment-bill/

     

    For Solutions – Click Here

    Prelims Daily Archive – Click here

  • 8 August 2018 | High Relevance vs Low Relevance News

    Reading News for UPSC is utmost important and rising number of questions year on year in UPSC Prelims is a testimony of this

    We are starting a daily series where we will analyze news covered in The Hindu, Indian Express and other newspapers which are important from exam perspective and which are not

    Important news would have been covered in our daily news coverage in form of newscards.

    Unimportant ones will be mentioned here and a short description regarding why it is not relevant for the exam

    Click on news headlines to read the full news

    High relevance news

    [op-ed snap] The need for digitizing land records in India

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/op-ed-snap-the-need-for-digitizing-land-records-in-india/

    A good editorial highlighting issues being faced in digitization of land records and why it is essential. Read and make notes for Mains.

    [op-ed snap] Commissions Of Inaction

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/op-ed-snap-commissions-of-inaction/

    The editorial highlights the functioning of various constitutional and statutory commisions and how they have proved to be white elephants and nothing else. Make notes for quoting in Mains answers as one question can be asked on OBC commission or related details.

    LS passes SC/ST amendment Bill

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/ls-passes-sc-st-amendment-bill/

    A very hot topic. Read and note details of the amendment bill as well as what is the issue. Can be asked in Mains.

    Access to Andaman eased

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/access-to-andaman-eased/

    Read about Restricted area permit and mentioned places. Can be asked in Prelims. (Map based questions)

    Parliament clears Bill for death in rape cases

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/parliament-clears-bill-for-death-in-rape-cases/

    The bill awarding a maximum sentence of death to those convicted for raping girls below 12 years of age has been passed by both houses of Parliament. It had become a necessity seeing the rising instances of sexual abuse of children in the country. Note important details of the bill, can be asked in Mains.

    Low Relevance News

    Gurumurthy appointed to the board of RBI

    The Centre has appointed RSS ideologue S. Gurumurthy and Satish Kashinath Marathe as part-time non-official directors on the central board of Reserve Bank of India for four years after the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) headed by PM approved their names as recommended by the department of financial services, Ministry of Finance

    No important detail in news from the exam perspective

  • [Burning Issue] Crop Insurance

    Image result for crop insurance india

    Crop Insurance

    • Refers to insurance services brought by farmers against loss or damage to growing crops.
    • Damages can be due to natural disasters such as drought, hail, floods, or either due to decline in prices of the agriculture commodity.

    History of Crop Insurance in India

    • As far back as 1915 in the pre-independence era,  J.S. Chakravarthi had proposed a rain insurance scheme for the farmers with view to insuring them against drought. His scheme was based on, what is referred to today as the ‘Area Approach’.
    • Apart from this, certain princely states like Madras, Dewas, and Baroda, also made attempts to introduce crop insurance relief in various forms, but with little success.
    • After independence, the first crop insurance program was introduced in 1972-73 by LIC on Cotton in Gujarat.
    • Later in 1972, the newly set up General Insurance Corporation (GIC) took over the experimental scheme and subsequently widened the coverage of crops as well as area of implementation. This experimental scheme was based on ‘Individual Approach’.
    • It was realized that crop insurance programmes based on the individual farm approach would not be viable in India.
    • Professor V. M. Dandekar (Father of Crop Insurance in India) suggested an alternate ‘Homogeneous Area Approach’. Based on this approach, the General Insurance Corporation of India (GIC) introduced a Pilot Crop Insurance Scheme from 1979.
    • Based on the learning from Pilot Crop Insurance Scheme, the Comprehensive Crop Insurance Scheme was introduced in 1985 by the Government of India. The CCIS was implemented on Homogeneous Area Approach. All crop loans given for notified crops in notified areas were compulsorily covered under the CCIS.
    • The CCIS was eventually discontinued after Kharif 1999, to be replaced by the improved and expanded National Agriculture Insurance Scheme (NAIS).
    • Later “National Crop Insurance Programme” was launched in 2013 by merging three schemes viz. Modified National Agricultural insurance Scheme (MNAIS), Weather Based Crop insurance Scheme (WBCIS) and Coconut Palm Insurance Scheme (CPIS).
    • Since 2016, Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana is being implemented by replacing MNAIS and CPIS.
    • But WBCIS is still working along with PMFBY.

    Crop Insurance Schemes

    Why it is difficult to design

    1. The risk of crop loss has a significant systemic component; and
    2. Ex ante risk assessment and ex post loss assessment for individual farmers are costly.

    Crop insurance is mandatory for

    1. farmers who have taken short-term crop loan (loanee farmers).

    But Crop Insurance is voluntary for

    1. all other farmers (non-loanee farmers).

    The premium of crop insurance is

    1. Is deducted from the loan amount for loanee farmers, and claim, if any, is adjusted against the loan amount.
    2. The non-loanee farmers, pay premium from their pocket, and receive the claim amount if crop loss is recognised.

    Coverage of crop insurance (according to Govt):

    1. around 26% farmers have been covered in 2017 so far.

    Reasons behind the low demand for crop insurance in India

     

    • In India, demand for crop insurance is highly price-sensitive.

     

    1. Even a small change in premium rates leads to wide shifts in demand.
    2. PMFBY, with its attractive premium, is expected to be a hit.

     

    • Poor awareness.

     

    1. An overwhelming majority (60% farmers) lack awareness about crop insurance schemes (NSSO)

     

    • Delay in settlement of claims.

     

    1. Lengthy and complex system of claim settlement discourages farmers from insuring their crops.

     

    • Mandatory only for loanee farmers

     

    1. Thus, PSBs do not have any incentive to sell it to non-loanee farmers.

     

    Livestock Insurance

    The Livestock Insurance Scheme:

    1. Is centrally sponsored scheme
    2. Implemented on a pilot basis during 2005-08 in 100 selected districts
    3. Presently being implemented in all districts of the country (since 2014) as a sub-mission under the National Livestock Mission

    Under the scheme

     

    • The animals

     

    1. Indigenous / crossbred milch animals
    2. Pack animals (Horses, Donkey, Mules, Camels, Ponies and Cattle/Buffalo Male)
    3. and Other Livestock (Goat, Sheep, Pigs, Rabbit, Yak and Mithun etc.)

     

    • The insurance:

     

    1. Done at their current market price
    2. Premium subsidy of 50% is borne entirely by centre

     

    • Twin objectives are to:

     

    1. Protect incomes
    2. Popularize livestock insurance (ultimate aim – qualitative improvement in livestock and their products)

    CAG report on Agriculture insurance in India

    • CAG audit report of centre’s crop insurance schemes has highlighted gaps in their implementation.
    • Two schemes that were audited: From Kharif 2011 to Rabi 2015-16
    1. Modified National Agriculture Insurance Scheme ( MNAIS )
    2. National Crop Insurance Programme ( NCIP )
    • The present Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana has not been scrutinised by the CAG.
    • It came in Kharif 2016.

    Problems highlighted by CAG in Agri-insurance in India

    • Delayed payments by state government.
    • Agriculture Insurance Company Of India Ltd. ( AIC ) failed to follow due to protocols in verification of claims by private insurance companies before releasing funds to them.
    • Difficulty in cross checking
    • Missing records of beneficiaries
    • The low inclusion of Small and Marginal farmers
    • Low coverage of non-loanee farmers.
    • Lack of Awareness

    Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY)

    • Started in the Kharif season of 2016
    • To reduce the burden of crop insurance on farmers.
    • In line with ‘One Nation – One Scheme’ theme.
    • Replaced the National Agricultural Insurance Scheme (NAIS) and Modified National Agricultural Insurance Scheme (MNAIS).
    • The Weather-Based Crop Insurance Scheme (WBCIS) remains in place, though its premium rates have been made the same as in PMFBY.
    • State governments to decide whether they want PMFBY, WBCIS or both in their states.
    • It incorporates the best features of all previous schemes and at the same time, all previous shortcomings/weaknesses have been addressed.

    How is PMFBY different

     

    • Lowest premium for farmers

     

        1. in the history of Independent India
        2. kept at  a maximum of 1.5% for Rabi, 2% for Kharif and 5% for annual horticultural/commercial crops

     

    • Uncapped premium would ensure farmers get a higher claim

     

        1. ≥25% of the claim is settled directly through farmers’ bank account
        2. previous schemes had higher + capped premium

     

    • The scheme is open to all farmers irrespective of whether they are loanees or not

     

        1. previously, loanee farmers were mandated to take crop insurance

     

    • Covers localised losses due to floods

     

        1. Only hailstorm and landslide were covered in previous schemes.

     

    • Post-harvest loss

     

        1. Previous schemes covered only coastal areas for cyclones.
        2. PMFBY covers all-India for both cyclonic and unseasonal rains.

     

    • Use of modern tech for quicker assessment and claim settlement

     

        1. PMFBY makes it mandatory – remote sensing, smartphones etc
        2. Previous schemes only relied on Crop Cutting Experiment (CCE) data instead
        3. Collecting this data and processing of claims delayed settlement

     

    • Awareness generation (AG)

     

      1. Previous schemes did not focus on AG; therefore insurance adoption remained low
      2. PMFBY targets at least 50% coverage through greater AG

    Successes of PMFBY

     

    • In the very first Kharif season (2016)

     

      1. The area under coverage increased by 38% (vs. 2015)
      2. The number of farmers covered increased by 47% (vs. 2015)
      3. Sum insured (per ha) increased by 51% (vs. 2015)
      4. The number of non-loanee farmers opting for PMFBY increased by 23%, driven primarily by Maharashtra.
      5. Increase in risk coverage against non-preventable natural risks from pre-sowing to post-harvest losses

    Challenges / Loopholes

     

    • Settling claims

     

        1. Slow submitting yield data by states to the insurance companies.
        2. The lackadaisical attitude of state agencies causes painful delays.
        3. Farmers still to get over Rs 5,600 crore worth of estimated claims from the 2016 kharif season

     

    • Assessing crop losses

     

    1. Modern tech not used to the fullest, despite being mandatory causing huge delays in assessment and reporting
    2. The states are also slow in conducting village-level crop-cutting experiments
    • No direct connection with the farmers
      1. Everything from damage assessment to claim settlement by govt and insurance companies.
      2. Therefore farmers have no role.
      3. The premiums are collected and passed on by the banks that extend loans to the farmers.
      4. “More as loan insurance than as crop insurance”.

    Conclusion on PMFBY

    • PMFBY has made appreciable progress in terms of coverage
    • But it has failed in timely settlement of claims
    • If the PMFBY has to succeed farmers must have a bigger stake in its functioning
    • Use modern tech in crop assessment and reporting
    • Modern tech is crucial for timely claim settlement
    • Link the insurance database with Core Banking Solution (CBS) so as to keep farmers apprised of premium deductions and claim receipt
    • Centre should take over the entire premium subsidy burden.
    • Ensure social audit
    • Cross check by various authorities and stakeholders

  • 7 August 2018 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

    Q.1) The ‘8888’ uprising (or the eighth day of August 1988) marks the pro-democratic movement of which of the following South Asian countries?

    a) Thailand

    b) Myanmar

    c) Laos

    d) Vietnam

    Inspired by: [op-ed snap] Thirty years after the 8888 uprising

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/op-ed-snap-thirty-years-after-the-8888-uprising/

    Q.2) Which of the given statements about Prime Ministers Research Fellowship programme is not correct?

    a) It is aimed at incentivising doctoral (PhD) programs of Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and Indian Institute of Science (IISc).

    b) Students from any government engineering colleges are eligible to get this fellowship.

    c) It is based on PPP Model.

    d) It is an initiative of HRD Ministry.

    Inspired by: [pib] Prime Minister’s Research Fellows (PMRF) Scheme covers entire country

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-prime-ministers-research-fellows-pmrf-scheme-covers-entire-country/

    Q.3) Exercise Maitree is a joint military exercise between which of the following countries?

    a) Nepal

    b) Bhutan

    c) Thailand

    d) Myanmar

    Inspired by: [pib] Indo – Thailand Joint Exercise Maitree 2018

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-indo-thailand-joint-exercise-maitree-2018/

    Q.4) Sharda Prasad Committee is related to which of the following issues?

    a) Financing to MSMEs

    b) Modifying curriculum in Higher technical institutions

    c) Discontinuing No-detention Policy

    d) Functioning of Skill sector

    Inspired by: [op-ed snap] Rebooting the system for a skills upgrade

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/op-ed-snap-rebooting-the-system-for-a-skills-upgrade/

    Q.5) Consider the following statement about RISECREEK:

    1. It is the indigenously developed microprocessor under Project Shakti of IIT Madras.

    2. It is indigenously manufactured in India.

    3. It is capable of meeting the demands of defence and strategic equipment such as NAVIC (Indian Regional Navigation Satellite) and the Internet of Things (IoT) electronics.

    Which of the following statements is/are correct?

    a) 1 and 2

    b) 2 and 3

    c) 1 and 3

    d) All are correct.

    Inspired by: IIT-Madras powers up a desi chip

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/iit-madras-powers-up-a-desi-chip/

    For Solutions – Click Here

    Prelims Daily Archive – Click here

  • 6 August 2018 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

    Q.1) Consider the following statements about the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2018:

    1. This is a subject of Union List; hence parliament is entitled to make laws defining powers available to the States.

    2. Accordingly sections 66A and 88A of the Act will empower the Centre to form a National Transportation Policy.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    a) Only 1

    b) Only 2

    c) Both 1 and 2

    d) None

    Inspired by: [op-ed snap] Change gears: amendments to the Motor Vehicles Act

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/op-ed-snap-change-gears-amendments-to-the-motor-vehicles-act/

    Q.2) Consider the following statements about Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP):

    1. It is an initiative of Minister of Road Transport and Highways of India and Inland Waterways Authority of India.

    2. It is aimed for capacity augmentation of navigation on all National Waterways.

    3. It includes creation of infrastructure development like multi-modal and inter-modal terminals, Roll on – Roll off (Ro-Ro) facilities, ferry services, navigation aids etc.

    Which of the given statements is/are mot correct?

    a) Only 3

    b) 1 and 3

    c) 1 and 2

    d) All are correct

    Inspired by: [pib] IWAI sets out on large public outreach along Ganga for Jal Marg Vikas Project

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-iwai-sets-out-on-large-public-outreach-along-ganga-for-jal-marg-vikas-project/

    Q.3) Which of the given statements is/are not correct about Asia-Pacific Institute of Broadcasting Development (AIBD)?

    1. It was established in 1977 under the auspices of UNESCO.

    2. United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UN-ESCAP) is the founder agency of AIBD.

    Select the correct codes from the options given below:

    a) Only 1

    b) Only 2

    c) Both 1 and 2

    d) None

    Inspired by: DG AIR elected AIBD President

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/dg-air-elected-aibd-president/

    Q.4) Consider the following statements about Defence India Startup Challenge:

    1. It is an initiative to tap startups for finding safe and futuristic Indian solutions to critical needs of the three Armed Forces.

    2. It has been set up in collaboration with FICCI.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    a) Only 1

    b) Only 2

    c) Both 1 and 2

    d) None

    Inspired by: Defence Ministry throws 11 challenges at startups

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/defence-ministry-throws-11-challenges-at-startups/

    Q.5) Consider the following statements about Lateral Entry Scheme into civil services:

    1. It will continue the UPSC system for reservations of seats into the services.

    2. UPSC expert panel will do the initial screening and then recommend the concerned ministry about the candidate.

    Which of the given statements is/are not correct?

    a) Both 1 and 2

    b) Only 1

    c) Only 2

    d) All are correct.

    Inspired by: Lateral entry of officers: Search panel decides UPSC will choose

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/lateral-entry-of-officers-search-panel-decides-upsc-will-choose/

    For Solutions – Click Here

    Prelims Daily Archive – Click here

  • 6 August 2018 | High Relevance vs Low Relevance News

    Reading News for UPSC is utmost important and rising number of questions year on year in UPSC Prelims is a testimony of this

    We are starting a daily series where we will analyze news covered in The Hindu, Indian Express and other newspapers which are important from exam perspective and which are not

    Important news would have been covered in our daily news coverage in form of newscards.

    Unimportant ones will be mentioned here and a short description regarding why it is not relevant for the exam

    Click on news headlines to read the full news

    High relevance news

    [op-ed snap] Citizenship and compassion

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/op-ed-snap-citizenship-and-compassion/

    A very good editorial highlighting flaws in handling migrant crises and what needs to be done. Make notes from it as the points can be quoted in Essay as well as Ethics paper.

    Lateral entry of officers: Search panel decides UPSC will choose

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/lateral-entry-of-officers-search-panel-decides-upsc-will-choose/

    Read about the future course of action on lateral entry. Very hot topic for Mains 2018

    Explained: How do roads impact wildlife, and why should anyone bother?

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/how-do-roads-impact-wildlife-and-why-should-anyone-bother/

    Animal and human conflicts have increased in recent times across all reserved areas. Read the explainer to know reasons as well as mitigation strategies.

    Low Relevance News

    National Library blocks websites following complaints

    The National Library (NL) authorities have blocked access to websites with sexually explicit content, along with the ones displaying violence and hate speech, from computers within its premises

    Nothing important in news from UPSC perspective

    VVPAT machines don’t click pictures: Election Commission

    Those distributing cash to voters could threaten them saying that paper trail machines take their picture while casting the vote

    The poll panel would launch a campaign to inform the voters that the paper trail machines do not breach their secrecy at the polling booth

    No important points from UPSC perspective

  • 4 August 2018 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

    Q.1) Nagaraj Ruling of 2006 is related to which of the following issues?

    a) Nikah Halala

    b) Creamy Layer Issue

    c) Reservations in Promotion

    d) Prevention of Atrocity

    Inspired by: Centre pushes for quota in promotion for SCs/STs

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/centre-pushes-for-quota-in-promotion-for-scs-sts/

    Q.2) Consider the following statement about E-Pashudhan Haat Scheme:

    1. It is a scheme under National Mission on Bovine Productivity.

    2. Under this scheme , the online portal is set to provide online sale of fodder for livestocks, Milk Products etc.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    a) Both 1 and 2

    b) Only 1

    c) Only 2

    d) None of the above.

    Inspired by: [pib] E-Pashudhan Haat Scheme

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-e-pashudhan-haat-scheme/

    Q.3) Which of the given statement is/are correct with respect to the E-way bill:

    1. It is an electronic waybill for inter-state movement of goods.

    2. When an e-way bill is generated a unique e-way bill number (EBN) is allocated and is available to the supplier, recipient, and the transporter.

    Select the correct codes from the following options:

    a) Only 1

    b) Both 1 and 2

    c) Only 2

    d) None of the above

    Inspired by: [pib] Introduction of E-way Bill System

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-introduction-of-e-way-bill-system/

    Q.4) Consider the following statements about Strategic Investment Fund by NIIF:

    1. This fund is established by RBI and regulated by SEBI.

    2. It is aimed to invest in defence related projects.

    3. The majority stakes of 51% is owned by Government of India.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    a) 1 and 2

    b) 2 and 3

    c) 1 only

    d) All are incorrect.

    Inspired by: [pib] Strategic Investment Fund under NIIF

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-strategic-investment-fund-under-niif/

    Q.5) Consider the following statements about Vidya Lakshmi Portal for Scholarships:

    1. It is developed by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.

    2. In this portal only girl students can view, apply and track the education loan applications to banks anytime, anywhere by accessing the portal.

    Which of the given statement is/are incorrect?

    a) Only 1

    b) Only 2

    c) Both 1 and 2

    d) None of the above.

    Inspired by: [pib] Vidyalakshmi Portal for Education Loan

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-vidyalakshmi-portal-for-education-loan/

    For Solutions – Click Here

    Prelims Daily Archive – Click here

  • 3 August 2018 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

    Q.1) The prestigious Fields Medal is awarded for commendable contributions to which of the following discipline?

    a) Space Science

    b) Mathematics

    c) Medicine

    d) Meta-Physics

    Inspired by: Indian-origin mathematician gets prestigious Fields Medal

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/indian-origin-mathematician-gets-prestigious-fields-medal/

    Q.2) Consider the following statements about Ashwin AAD Missile:

    1. It is an anti-ballistic missile designed to intercept incoming ballistic missiles in the endo-atmosphere at an altitude of 30 km.

    2. It is the only missile fuelled by cryogenic propellants.

    3. It is equipped with advanced laser guided system.

    Which of the given statements is are correct?

    a) Only 1

    b) 1 and 3

    c) Only 2

    d) 2 and 3

    Inspired by: Ballistic Missile Interceptor AAD Successfully Flight Tested

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/ballistic-missile-interceptor-aad-successfully-flight-tested/

    Q.3) Consider the following statement about colostrums:

    1. They are the first vaccine injected to the newborn, immediately after their birth.

    2. It is extremely rich in nutrients and antibodies.

    Which of the given statement is/are correct?

    a) Only 1

    b) Both 1 and 2

    c) Only 2

    d) None of the above

    Inspired by: India ranks 56th in early initiation of breastfeeding, say UNICEF, WHO

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/india-ranks-56th-in-early-initiation-of-breastfeeding-say-unicef-who/

    Q.4) Consider the following statements about the 123rd Constitutional Amendment Bill providing for a National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC):

    1. The bill provides for the grant of constitutional status to NCBC.

    2. According to the bill, Governor/Lt. Governor will specify the socially and educationally backward classes in the various states and union territories.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    a) Only 1

    b) Only 2

    c) Both 1 and 2

    d) None of the above

    Inspired by: Statutory status for BCs panel

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/statutory-status-for-bcs-panel/

    Q.5) Consider the following statements about Draft e-commerce policy, 2018:

    1. It provides for localization of user data.

    2. FDI is to be permitted in case where Indian company is majority stakeholder and product is made in India.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    a) Only 1

    b) Only 2

    c) Both 1 and 2

    d) None of the above

    Inspired by: [op-ed snap] Discounting logic: on e-commerce policy

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/op-ed-snap-discounting-logic-on-e-commerce-policy/

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    Prelims Daily Archive – Click here

  • 2 August 2018 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

    Q.1) Consider the following statements about Monetary Policy Committee of RBI:

    1. The meetings of MPC are held once a year after the annual financial statement is released.

    2. Union Finance Minister is the ex-officio Chairman of MPC.

    3. The setting up of a committee to decide on Monetary Policy was first proposed by the Raghuram Rajan Committee.

    Which of the given statements is/are incorrect?

    a) 1, 2 and 3

    b) 2 and 3

    c) 1 and 2

    d) Only 2

    Inspired by: [op-ed snap] Prudent increase: on RBI’s rate hike

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/op-ed-snap-prudent-increase-on-rbis-rate-hike/

    Q.2) Consider the following statements about Geographical Indications (GI):

    1. It is granted as per the provisions of Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999.

    2. GIs have been defined under Article 22(1) of the WTO Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) Agreement.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    a) Only 1

    b) Only 2

    c) Both 1 and 2

    d) None of the above

    Inspired by: GI logo, tagline launched

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/gi-logo-tagline-launched/

    Q.3) Consider the following statements about Concessional Financing Scheme (CFS):

    1. Concessional Financing Scheme (CFS) is aimed to support Indian Entities bidding for strategically important infrastructure projects abroad.

    2. The credit under this scheme is released by RBI.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    a) Only 1

    b) Only 2

    c) Both 1 and 2

    d) None of the above

    Inspired by: [pib] Concessional Financing Scheme (CFS) to support Indian Entities bidding for strategically important infrastructure projects abroad

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-concessional-financing-scheme-cfs-to-support-indian-entities-bidding-for-strategically-important-infrastructure-projects-abroad/

    Q.4) State Energy Efficiency Preparedness Index is released by:

    a) NITI Aayog

    b) Union Power Ministry and BEE

    c) EESL and NITI Aaayog

    d) None of the Above

    Inspired by: [pib] Nationwide ‘State Energy Efficiency Preparedness Index’ released

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-nationwide-state-energy-efficiency-preparedness-index-released/

    Q.5) Consider the following statements about Perform Achieve and Trade (PAT) Scheme:

    1. It is a part of the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) launched in 2012.

    2. It seeks to save energy consumption of 8 Core Industries.

    3. The assigned energy savings targets are given incentives in the form of tradable energy saving certificates (ESCert).

    Select the correct codes from the given statements.

    a) 1 and 2

    b) 1 and 3

    c) 3 only

    d) All are correct

    Inspired by: [pib] Nationwide ‘State Energy Efficiency Preparedness Index’ released

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-nationwide-state-energy-efficiency-preparedness-index-released/

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    Prelims Daily Archive – Click here