Category: Strategy Sessions

  • 11th November 2019 | Daily Answer Writing Enhancement

    ANNOUNCEMENT – There is a change in format. Students will now have to post answers on the questions page separately by clicking on the links given below. We plan to track progress for each of the GS papers and to achieve the same, this modification becomes important. Students who are unable to post answers, please email hello@civilsdaily.com. You will receive a resolution for sure. 

    Please avoid submitting typed answers. Write answers on paper.


    Question 1)

    The rape of small girls on the scale at which it is currently taking place, especially in the north, signifies a breakdown of the ethical order of common living. Do you agree? Suggest solutions. (15 Marks)

    Question 2)

    The twin problems of underweight and overweight trouble Indian children. Do you think the latest FSSAI regulations on fast food will address the problem of child malnutrition in the country? Discuss. (15 Marks)

    Question 3)

    The National Disaster Management Plan is devoid of many important elements that make a good and robust action plan. It may fulfill the formal requirement of the law of having a plan but it may not be effective in achieving its grandiose vision of building resilience. Critically comment. (15 Marks)

    Question 4)

    You are posted as a District Collector in one of the districts in India. It has been brought to your notice that a structure has been built by few members of a religious community on the public land without getting due permissions. In keeping with the guidelines of the Supreme Court of India, disallowing the construction of any permanent religious structures on public land, you are contemplating its removal. However, the leaders of the community in question have requested you to permit the structure saying that it is for the period of month long religious festival only. Moreover, they say that there is no other religious place nearby where community members can celebrate their festival. Your seniors and the political leader of the area also support their views. However you are skeptical that after the festival is over, it may not be easy to remove the religious structure from the public land due to the involvement of community members at large. (1) Perform an objective and subjective analysis of the case. (2) What will you do in such a situation?

    Reviews will be provided in a week. (In the order of submission- First come first serve basis). In case the answer is submitted late the review period may get extended to two weeks.

    *In case your answer is not reviewed in a week, reply to your answer saying *NOT CHECKED*. If Parth Sir’s tag is available then tag him.

    For the philosophy of AWE and payment, check  here: Click2Join

  • 8th November 2019 | Daily Answer Writing Enhancement

    ANNOUNCEMENT – There is a change in format. Students will now have to post answers on the questions page separately by clicking on the links given below. We plan to track progress for each of the GS papers and to achieve the same, this modification becomes important. Students who are unable to post answers, please email hello@civilsdaily.com. You will receive a resolution for sure. 

    Please avoid submitting typed answers. Write answers on paper.


    Question 1)

    India needs a reinvented secularism 2.0 rooted in complete separation of religion and state. Comment. (15 Marks)

    Question 2)

    Discuss the significance of the QUAD grouping, especially for India. Is it’s relevance mere tokenism? (15 Marks)

    Question 3)

    What do you understand by Vaccine Hesitancy? What are the reasons for it? What negative outcomes does it carry? (15 Marks)

    Question 4)

    “Aristotelian and Buddhist ethics are alike formally: each advocates moderation”. Discuss. (15 Marks)

    Reviews will be provided in a week. (In the order of submission- First come first serve basis). In case the answer is submitted late the review period may get extended to two weeks.

    *In case your answer is not reviewed in a week, reply to your answer saying *NOT CHECKED*. If Parth Sir’s tag is available then tag him.

    For the philosophy of AWE and payment, check  here: Click2Join

  • SAMANVAYA: Students Preparing for UPSC 2020 > Time to get serious with your prep!

    SAMANVAYA: Students Preparing for UPSC 2020 > Time to get serious with your prep!

    Distribution:

    Click here to fill the form and get a kickstart. 

    Dear Students, 

    Our lectures on paper discussions and posts on solutions and sample structures have received over 20,000 hits collectively.  

    It is time to get serious with your preparation and we have got your back.


    After numerous conversations with so many aspirants, we have started understanding your problems better and standardizing solutions for the same.

    These are being incorporated into our Samanvaya program. It is these practices that will make the program more effective.

    At the core of Samanvaya lies the fact that each one of you will have a unique journey while preparing for the exam. Some will get through on the first attempt without much effort while others will take both more time and more effort. We want to understand you better to help you optimize your journey so you can focus on the right things and not waste time on the wrong ones. We are asking you to tap into the valuable experiences of mentors who underwent the same grind and realize the pitfalls and understand the shortcuts to make it.

    Samanvaya program involves the following –

    1. Identifying your weaknesses

    Over 80% of students who claimed to have revised NCERTs were unable to answer basic questions. Many were not comfortable with at least 1 GS subject and Optional. Many struggled with ‘What went wrong’ after 2-3 years of hard work.

    Our mentors will help you assess your preparedness and suggest accurate strategies.

    2. Strategy and study plan discussions

    Over 90% of students couldn’t stick to a plan. Study plans and strategies are iterative in nature and we want to help you with that. Many are unable to perform in tests despite preparing hard. This could be due to a variety of factors – lack of adequate prep, jitters in the exam hall, inadequate revision, lack of practice of test series or just a bad day at work. Tell us what you think went wrong and we’ll figure out a way to get you over the line next time.

    3. Helping you understand the exam better

    Which books to read, different approaches, etc. Over 60% of students we talked to did not find NCERTs relevant and saw no point in being thorough with them.

    4. Lack of motivation

    We have all had those days when it’s been hard to motivate ourselves to hit the books and just study. It happens to the best of us sometimes and for some of us, it happens more frequently. And it is understandable, Civil Service preparation is a long and often lonely process. Every aspirant, from toppers to those who have quit have been overwhelmed by this process at some point.

    Samanvaya Code of Conduct

    • Be honest with your mentors about your preparation levels and stage.
    • Follow their advice and participate in tests and assignments that they set for you
    • Stay active in the telegram groups, ask doubts, don’t hold yourself back.
    • Don’t expect spoonfeeding. You have to drive the initiative.

    Click here to fill the form and get a kickstart. 

    Here’s the feedback that we got from some of our students:


    Click here to fill the form and get a kickstart. 

  • 7th November 2019 | Daily Answer Writing Enhancement

    ANNOUNCEMENT – There is a change in format. Students will now have to post answers on the questions page separately by clicking on the links given below. We plan to track progress for each of the GS papers and to achieve the same, this modification becomes important. Students who are unable to post answers, please email hello@civilsdaily.com. You will receive a resolution for sure. 

    Please avoid submitting typed answers. Write answers on paper.


    Question 1)

    Why did the February Revolution in 1917 ultimately fail? What were the consequences for Russia of the failure of Kerensky’s Provisional Government? (15 Marks)

    Question 2)

    Did India miss out by opting out of RCEP? Discuss. (15 Marks)

    Question 3)

    Why do farmers burn stubble, despite severe pollution? What steps can be taken to reduce stubble burning and the pollution that follows? (15 Marks)

    Question 4)

    “For a public servant there is no black-and-white situation, but his reactions or responses are good or bad-whether s/he reacts negative or responds positive to the situation is, therefore, the more important.” Explain and answer the following questions: (a) What is the difference between reacting and responding? (7.5 Marks) (b) Are Confusion and Dilemma the natural routes to understand a situation and find solutions or obstacles? (7.5 Marks)

     

    Reviews will be provided in a week. (In the order of submission- First come first serve basis). In case the answer is submitted late the review period may get extended to two weeks.

    *In case your answer is not reviewed in a week, reply to your answer saying *NOT CHECKED*. If Parth Sir’s tag is available then tag him.

    For the philosophy of AWE and payment, check  here: Click2Join

  • 6th November 2019 | Daily Answer Writing Enhancement

    ANNOUNCEMENT – There is a change in format. Students will now have to post answers on the questions page separately by clicking on the links given below. We plan to track progress for each of the GS papers and to achieve the same, this modification becomes important. Students who are unable to post answers, please email hello@civilsdaily.com. You will receive a resolution for sure. 

    Please avoid submitting typed answers. Write answers on paper.


    Question 1)

    Discuss the problems that impeded the integration of the princely states into the Indian Union. How were these problems tackled? (15 Marks)

    Question 2)

    Peace for Nagaland seems elusive in the aftermath of the government’s decision on JnK. Discuss. (15 Marks)

    Question 3)

     What are the reasons for the unique state of pollution in Delhi? Examine the reasons and try to give solutions. (15 Marks)

    Question 4)

    One of the foundational value of public service is ‘Selfless Service’. But life is not so black and white. There are grey areas that pushes to compromise with situation to survive. In this context critically analyze and illustrate whether a civil servant can serve ‘selflessly’. (15 Marks)

    Reviews will be provided in a week. (In the order of submission- First come first serve basis). In case the answer is submitted late the review period may get extended to two weeks.

    *In case your answer is not reviewed in a week, reply to your answer saying *NOT CHECKED*. If Parth Sir’s tag is available then tag him.

    For the philosophy of AWE and payment, check  here: Click2Join

  • Submission of AWE Answers

    Hi Folks.

    It’s great to see that you all are attempting the Daily AWE tests with such passion. Keep it up. But make sure that you submit your test copies on the Daily AWE page only. Some of you have mailed your copies to our team. That is not the right and efficient way.  Instead, use the uploading options on the Daily AWE pages for each question. Take help from the image below.

    Also, avoid typing answers in the discussion box. That is not the ideal way of writing answers. When you write on plain paper with pen, then you get the idea of the space and presentation in a better manner.

     

  • 5th November 2019 | Daily Answer Writing Enhancement

    ANNOUNCEMENT – There is a change in format. Students will now have to post answers on the questions page separately by clicking on the links given below. We plan to track progress for each of the GS papers and to achieve the same, this modification becomes important. Students who are unable to post answers, please email hello@civilsdaily.com. You will receive a resolution for sure. 


    Question 1)

    “By offering an ideological critique of the western civilization in its modern phase, Gandhiji was effectively contesting the moral legitimacy of the Raj that rested on a stated assumption of the superiority of the west.” Comment. (15 Marks)

    Question 2)

    What barriers does India face in including the last mile in its financial network? Suggest solutions for the same. (15 Marks)

    Question 3)

    The excessive focus on the numbers of GDP takes us away from the quality of living. Discuss the need to move away from GDP as an indicator of economic growth. (15 Marks)

    Question 4)

    Answer the following questions: (a) Discuss few criterias used to define a trait as positive? (7.5 Marks) (b) How does optimism work and what positive functions does it serve? (7.5 Marks)

    Reviews will be provided in a week. (In the order of submission- First come first serve basis). In case the answer is submitted late the review period may get extended to two weeks.

    *In case your answer is not reviewed in a week, reply to your answer saying *NOT CHECKED*. If Parth Sir’s tag is available then tag him.

    For the philosophy of AWE and payment, check  here: Click2Join

  • How IAS Aspirants can Ensure a Better Sleep.

     


    Sound sleep is the basis of every achievement. And in long-drawn exams like the CSE, quality sleep is all the more crucial. This video shares how aspirants can ensure sound sleep every night for the best performance in their studies and exam.

  • 4th November 2019 | Daily Answer Writing Enhancement

    ANNOUNCEMENT – There is a change in format. Students will now have to post answers on the questions page separately by clicking on the links given below. We plan to track progress for each of the GS papers and to achieve the same, this modification becomes important. Students who are unable to post answers, please email hello@civilsdaily.com. You will receive a resolution for sure. 


    Question 1)

    “The Sino-Indian War Was A Masterstroke That Placed China as The Leader of The Third World.” Analyze. (15 Marks)

    Question 2)

    The partnership India and Saudi Arabia is the need of the hour for both the countries. Discuss. (15 Marks)

    Question 3)

    Discuss the issue of Antibiotic resistance, with special focus on the unique socio-economic conditions in India. What are the challenges India faces in combating the issue of Drug resistance? (15 Marks)

    Question 4)

    Is it as much of a mistake to define ‘right action’ as to define ‘good consequence’? (15 Marks)

    Reviews will be provided in a week. (In the order of submission- First come first serve basis). In case the answer is submitted late the review period may get extended to two weeks.

    *In case your answer is not reviewed in a week, reply to your answer saying *NOT CHECKED*. If Parth Sir’s tag is available then tag him.

    For the philosophy of AWE and payment, check  here: Click2Join

  • Interview Calls! Here’s how they look

    Interview Calls! Here’s how they look

    Distribution:

    Early applicants to the Interview Program have an added advantage as we get to spend more time with them. Email your DAFs to hello@civilsdaily.com. More details click here. In the unlikely scenario that you don’t feel confident, check out Smash Mains Program and email us.


    Once you clear your mains exam, you will receive an email asking you to download your e-Summon.

    From: UPSC e-Summon Letter <daf-upsc@nic.in>
    Date: Thu, Jan 17, 2019 at 3:03 PM
    Subject: Civil Services (Main) Examination, 2018, Password for Downloading e-Summon Letter

    This is an auto-generated email. Please do not reply to this email.

    Your personal login information that allows you to download e-Summon Letter:

    Email ID. : xxx

    Roll No. : xxx

    Password : xxx

    e-Summon Letter Administration

    Union Public Service Commission.
    Dholpur House, Shajahan Road.
    New Delhi – 110-069


    The e-SUMMON Letter will look something like –

     

     

    1. Your admission at the stage of Personality Test of the Civil Services (Main) Examination, 2018 is purely provisional subject to your satisfying prescribed eligibility condition for the said examination. If on verification at any time before or after the Personality Test, it is found that you do not fulfill any of the eligibility conditions and/or made false statement regarding age/qualification/no. of chances availed etc., your candidature for the examination will be cancelled by the Commission and you would render yourself liable to be proceeded under Rule14 of the Rule for the Civil Services Examination, 2018 published in the Gazette of India Extraordinary Part-I Section 1 on 07-02-2018.

    2. You should note that no request for change in the date and time of the Personality Test will be ordinarily entertained. In case you fail to present yourself before the Personality Test Board on the schedule date and time, you will liable to be treated as Absent at Personality Test. No further correspondence will be made in this regard.

    3. Please bring this letter with you when you come for Personality Test and report at Reception at Gate No.1, UPSC Dholpur House, New Delhi. Failure to do so may result in denial of entry into Commission premises.

    4. Please note that in case you fail to bring original documents in support of your age, educational qualification(s), caste/category and PH status, age relaxation, etc., you may not be allowed to appear for Personality Test and No TA/DA will be paid. The original certificates will be returned after verification.

    5. You should note that leaving the medical examination incomplete would render you liable for cancellation of your candidature. Proof of attending the medical examination in Attendance Slip (Annexure – 1) should be, on completion of the medical examination, mailed to e-mail IDs:usais-dopt@nic.in, doais1@nic.in. Original Copy of attendance slip should be submitted by hand or by speed post to the Commission within 3 days of the date of completion of the medical examination. Failure in this regard would lead to cancellation of candidature.

    You opted YES, on 12th, January 2019 regarding disclosure of your information along with marks in case you are not recommended in the final result.

    Date of Printing – 12-01-2019

    Under Secretary

     


    Early applicants to the Interview Program have an added advantage as we get to spend more time with them. Email your DAFs to hello@civilsdaily.com. More details click here. In the unlikely scenario that you don’t feel confident, check out Smash Mains Program and email us.

  • *IMPORTANT -2 days left to join New Batches for Foundation Program, Prelims Test Series, Mains Essential Program and Samachar Manthan

    Distribution:

    Dear students,

    This is the right time to enroll in the courses. If you enroll now, you will be able to do justice to the syllabus and complete things in the allotted time.

    Starts November 2nd. First Test on November 2nd.

    Master Time Table-  UAP 2020 Batch-4

    Prime Prelims TS 2020 Batch 4 Time Table

    CD Target 160+ Essay Program  Batch 4 2020 Time Table

    Click here to Enroll for the Samachar Manthan Yearly 2019-2020

    The philosophy behind the Time Table and Study Plan was published for the last batch – Click here

    Download Brochure: Foundation 2020 from Civilsdaily

    Civilsdaily has seen appreciation from Rank 1- Durishetty Anudeep, Rank 2 Anu Kumari. Click here

    Toppers Sessions for this year have been uploaded on our youtube channel –  The playlist is here –

    Click here to enroll for the Prime Prelims TS 2020
    ————–
    Click here to enroll for the Prelims Advanced Test Series 2020
    ————–
    Click here to enroll for the Samachar Manthan Yearly 2019-20
    ————–
    Click here to enroll for the Mains Essential Program 2020
    ————–
    Click here to Join our Foundation 2020 course
    ————–
    Click here to enroll for the Ultimate Assessment Program 2020


    If you wish to do a direct bank transfer, here are the details.

    A/C NAME: APEIROGON TECHNOLOGIES PVT. LTD
    A/C NO: 50200016012695
    IFSC CODE: HDFC0000922
    GSTIN: 07AAOCA0521B1ZA

    NOTE #1: BEFORE MAKING A DIRECT BANK TRANSFER, PLS CHECK THE FULL AMOUNT (INCLUSIVE OF TAXES). ONCE THE PAYMENT IS DONE, DROP A MAIL TO HELLO@CIVILSDAILY WITH YOUR TRANSACTION ID AND COURSE JOINED
    NOTE #2: CIVILSDAILY’S PARENT COMPANY NAME IS APEIROGON TECHNOLOGIES. DON’T PANIC!

  • 1st November 2019 | Daily Answer Writing Enhancement

    ANNOUNCEMENT – There is a change in format. Students will now have to post answers on the questions page separately by clicking on the links given below. We plan to track progress for each of the GS papers and to achieve the same, this modification becomes important. Students who are unable to post answers, please email hello@civilsdaily.com. You will receive a resolution for sure. 


    Question 1)

    Discuss the Key Features of the Mughal Paintings? How did it reflect the contemporary socio-cultural and political realities? (15 Marks)

    Question 2)

    A law is the last tool needed, to curb the menace of lynching. Discuss. (15 Marks)

    Question 3)

    What are the challenges in taxing digital spaces? What steps are taken in this direction? (15 Marks)

    Question 4)

    Are laws enough to promote ethical behavior? Explain with examples. (15 marks)

     

    Reviews will be provided in a week. (In the order of submission- First come first serve basis). In case the answer is submitted late the review period may get extended to two weeks.

    *In case your answer is not reviewed in a week, reply to your answer saying *NOT CHECKED*. If Parth Sir’s tag is available then tag him.

    For the philosophy of AWE and payment, check  here: Click2Join

  • Get ready for upcoming Science and Technology Prelims Test on 2nd November – sample questions highlighting our methodology

    Distribution:

    Click here to enroll for the Prime Prelims TS

    Dear students,

    31st May 2020 is the D-day for all civil service aspirants.

    “Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the ax.”

    This quote by Abraham Lincoln clearly sums up how one should prepare for that day. So before entering the battlefield alone should have enough practice. Our Prime Prelims Test series which shall enrich you to acquaint yourself with the pattern of CSE-2020, assess your abilities, rectify your mistakes and make you confident to appear on the examination day.

    Our Prime Prelims Test Series follows the same approach as that adopted by UPSC. Our team of experts is quite enriched with the UPSC pattern and focal point of the questions and hence creates more chances for the aspirants to crack civil service examination by appearing our Test Series.

    The key philosophy of our prelims TS is Evidence-based question making: The 3600 questions you face in our mocks have their relevance established in UPSC’s trend analysis. We focus on themes that are important as per UPSC so that we maximize your chances of questions overlap with the actual UPSC Prelims.

    This Science and Technology test contains questions from the following themes:

    New Technology in News: 9

    Biotechnology: 11

    Basic Science (NCERTs): 16

    Space Technology and Indian Collaboration in Scientific Experiments: 20

    Schemes and Initiatives and Technology in Agriculture:  11

    Defense Technolgy: 4

    Health and Diseases: 11

    Alternative and Nuclear Energy: 14

    Information and Communication Technology: 4

    Nothing speaks more than the facts itself rather than a mere jargon. Here is a list of 5 sample questions from the upcoming test which will help you in identifying the standards and approach we follow. (you can skip this if you want to attempt these directly in the test). 

    Noone but only you can assess how it will help you in being the top percentile of aspirants. You have to practice ruthlessly and civils Daily provides you with a platform to hone your skills.

    Q.1) With reference to Hyperloop technology, consider the following statements:

    1. It works on the mechanism of gravitation free capsule running at an ultra high speed in a loop like tube maintained at very high pressure.
    2. It would require less energy and would have immunity to inclement weather as well as collision.

    Which of the statement given above is/are correct?

    a. 1 only

    b. 2 only

    c. Both of them

    d. Neither of them

     

    Q.2) Which of the following is/are the source(s) of Saturated fats?

    1. Peanut
    2. Red meat
    3. Olive Oil
    4. Coconut Oil

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    a. 1 and 3 only

    b. 3 and 4 only

    c. 2 and 4 only

    d. All of them

     

    Q.3) Consider the following statements with reference to the difference between Quick Response (QR) code and Barcode:

    1. While a barcode holds information in the horizontal direction, a QR code holds information in both horizontal and vertical directions enabling it to store more information.
    2. Barcode can be scanned and used even if it is damaged but QR code cannot be used if it is damaged.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    a. 1 only

    b. 2 only

    c. Both of them

    d. Neither of them

     

    Q.4) Which of the following statements is correct with reference to recently launched Application Programming Interface Exchange (APIX)?

    a. It is a platform to boost the Artificial Intelligence Capability of SAARC nations.

    b. It is a new portal where QUAD nations can exchange information about maritime threats in the Indo Pacific region.

    c. It is a banking technology platform designed to reach people worldwide who are still without bank accounts.

    d. It is a collaboration between India and the EU to manufacture hybrid cars in the South Asia region.

     

    Q.5)  Consider the following statements regarding NATIONAL KNOWLEDGE NETWORK:

    1. It enables the sharing of scientific databases and remote access to advanced research facilities.
    2. India has decided to extend its National Knowledge Network to Bhutan.

    Which of the above statements is/are correct?

    a. 1 only

    b. 2 only

    c. Both of them

    d. Neither of them

  • Civilsdaily Interview Program 2019-20 > Rise up and peak at the right moment

    Civilsdaily Interview Program 2019-20 > Rise up and peak at the right moment

    Distribution:

    Folks,

    The importance of the 3rd round of exam – The Personal Interview, cannot be underscored. If you perform exceptionally well, it will help you compensate for any shortage in your mains score. If you do not, it will undo the hard work that you put in to get a high score in mains and impact your final result.

    It doesn’t come as a surprise that students who clear mains tend to take the interviews very lightly and don’t follow any rigorous strategy. Talk to anyone who has appeared for interviews twice and they will tell you how unpredictable they can be.

    The approach followed by coaching institutes to mock interview programs is very unstructured. You present before a panel and are asked questions one after the other. If you fail to answer them, you are asked to prepare those topics. In the next round, you are asked a completely different set of questions independent of your first round of performance.

    We want to follow a very different approach. It is not about merely answering ad-hoc questions but testing your capabilities across the following competencies.

    General 

    1. Economy

    2. International Relations

    3. Governance and social issues

    4. Current Affairs

     

    DAF Specific 

    1. Past background

    2. Hometown/state information

    3. Hobbies

    4. Your optional subject

    Hence, we have put in place a robust program in place that will help you understand weaknesses that are difficult to figure out on its own. Here is how the program will work

    1. Telegram Group for continuous engagement 

    Civilsdaily Telegram Group has created a name for itself – Read here https://www.civilsdaily.com/5-reasons-to-join-the-exclusive-telegram-group/

    You can connect with students from the same hometown/city & hobbies. This will help you collaborate and prepare these competencies better.

    The telegram group will be moderated by our panelists who will answer your general queries and post relevant questions.

    We will try to post stress-based questions regularly so you have practiced enough.

    At the same time, we will be posting videos and notes which we believe can be of help in tackling the interview program.

    2. Skye/hangouts based 1st round of Mock Interviews  

    As most of you don’t shift to Delhi immediately after the mains results are announced, we will hold an interview session via skype, understand your basic profile and try to see where you lack.

    Once you move to Delhi, you will face more rigorous rounds.

    3. 2nd-3rd round of Mock Interviews will be held offline.

    Facing the panel is an experience in itself. Go through our previous year’s mock interviews. They are much above the industry standard.

    https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZTYLkxalE7KU4uu9Bnm0rqCeFim9kNMO

     

    Our Panel

    We have a commitment from the following academicians, seasoned bureaucrats, and subject matter experts. They believe in our cause and are willing to put in their precious hours.

    Virendra Pratap Singh, IRPS

    Virendra Pratap Singh did is B.Tech from IIT Kharagpur in 2003. He joined the services with immense experience in the Private Sector working across domains in high profile companies like Tata Steel, Maruti Suzuki India Ltd, and Tata Motors. He has consistently scored very high marks in interviews. His 2009 score of 213/300 was among the toppers.

    His insights have proved to be very helpful to aspirants appearing for exams year after year.

    Dr. Makhan Saikia 

    Dr. Saikia is an Author & Expert on International Affairs. He holds an MA & M. Phil (Pol. Sc.) from JNU and Ph.D (Globalization and Governance) from TISS, Mumbai.
    He has taught at some of the finest universities.
    Occasionally, he has written for various newspapers.
    His articles can be found here.

     

    Mr. Vipul Shrivastava, IPS

    Mr. Vipul Shrivastava did his B.Tech from IIT Powai. He was one of the highest scorers during his time. He is presently also dedicating time to help aspirants with their essay preparation.

    Dr. Vipin Garg, IAS  

    Dr. Vipin Garg is a Founding Mentor at Civilsdaily. He did his MBBS from AIIMS and then moved to the services. He was the highest scorer in CSE Interview 2016 with 209 marks. His notes and insights have been of immense help to the students.

    Mr. Rohit Pande, Consultant  Social Enterprises

    Mr. Rohit Pande is a Founding Mentor at Civilsdaily. He did his B.Tech from IIT Guwahati. After a stint in various consulting roles across top firms, he is exploring problems in the social sector and has immense ground level knowledge about issues in waste management, education, health, and financial services. His insights can be extremely useful as discussion points in the interview.

    Our faculty members who are well aware of recent trends and have immense experience with the interview rounds will also be working with you.

    Here are the links to Mock Interviews –

    Interview Enrichment Program – Mock interviews

    To enroll,

    1. Mail us your DAF with filename changed to yourname-rollnumber and subject as PDP yournamerollnumber. 

    2. In the email, tell us what areas you feel require special attention/are most uncomfortable with.

  • Study Plan For The Upcoming AWE Program

     

    Many students do see a value in practicing questions every day. It keeps the momentum going and incrementally builds a database of questions and answers that can be used for Mains.  So we have created a truly effective program.

    We have come up with a 90 days plan through which you will be able to cover your GS mains syllabus twice while giving proper time to GS paper 4 as well, along with more than 30 case studies. Like before, we will ask 4 questions every day covering the GS 1,2,3,4. Questions will cover both contemporary and static parts. 

    The program will operate on the Weekdays. This was requested by the students themselves. We believe being regular for 5 days is a decent enough challenge. Moreover, Saturdays and Sundays off allowing students to contribute to other programs. 

    The above system leads to questions being submitted in the last week of every month and we require time to wrap those up. Hence, we will not be posting any questions from the 27th of each month. The last few days will be exclusively reserved for clearing the backlog of reviews. 

    Monthly Rs. 1k + taxes: Click2Join (bi-monthly payments accepted)

     

    So, here is the detailed plan for the next  3 months:

    • Question number 1 will cover your static parts of papers 1.
    • Question numbers 2 and 3 will cover your GS papers 2 and 3 with a focus on current affairs, linking it to the static portions.
    • Question number 4 will cover Paper 4, i.e. ethics. One week we will cover static portions from that paper while subsequent week, it will be solely focusing on case studies. The same process will follow every alternate week for question number 4.

    November 2019

    Date and Day

    Question 1

    Question 4

    1st November, Friday Indian culture covering the salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature, and Architecture. Essence, determinants, and consequences of Ethics in human actions; dimensions of ethics; ethics in private and public relationships.
    4th November, Monday Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the present. Human Values
    5th November, Tuesday The Freedom Struggle – its various stages and important contributors /contributions from different parts of the country. Attitude
    6th November, Wednesday Post-independence consolidation and reorganization within the country. Aptitude and foundational values for Civil Service, integrity, impartiality and non-partisanship, objectivity, dedication to public service, empathy, tolerance and compassion towards the weaker sections.
    7h November, Thursday History of the world including events from the 18th century.  Emotional intelligence concepts.
    8th November, Friday Political philosophies like communism, capitalism, socialism, etc.- their forms and effect on the society. Contributions of moral thinkers and philosophers from India and the world.
    11th November, Monday Indian Society and Diversity of India. Case Studies
    12th November, Tuesday Role of women and women’s organization. Case Studies
    13th November, Wednesday Population and associated issues, poverty, and developmental issues. Case Studies
    14th November, Thursday Urbanization, their problems, and their remedies. Case Studies
    15th November, Friday Effects of globalization on Indian society. Case Studies
    18th November, Monday Social empowerment, communalism, regionalism & secularism. Public/Civil service values and Ethics in Public administration.
    19th November, Tuesday Salient features of the world’s physical geography. Ethical concerns and dilemmas in government and private institutions.
    20th November, Wednesday Distribution of key natural resources across the world. Laws, rules, regulations, and conscience as sources of ethical guidance.
    21st November, Thursday Factors responsible for the location of primary, secondary, and tertiary sector industries. Accountability and ethical governance; strengthening of ethical and moral values in governance.
    22nd November, Friday Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone, etc. Ethical issues in international relations and funding; corporate governance.
    25th November, Monday Changes in critical geographical features (including water-bodies and ice-caps) and in flora and fauna and the effects of such changes. Case Studies
    26th November, Tuesday Indian culture covering the salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature, and Architecture. Case Studies
    27th November, Wednesday Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the present. Case Studies

     

    December 2019

    Date Question 1 Question 4
    2nd December, Monday The Freedom Struggle – its various stages and important contributors /contributions from different parts of the country. Concept of public service; Philosophical basis of governance and probity.
    3rd December, Tuesday Post-independence consolidation and reorganization within the country. Information sharing and transparency in government, Right to Information.
    4th December, Wednesday History of the world including events from the 18th century.  Codes of Ethics, Codes of Conduct, Citizen’s Charters. 
    5th December, Thursday Political philosophies like communism, capitalism, socialism, etc.- their forms and effect on the society. Work culture, Quality of service delivery.
    6th December, Friday Indian Society and Diversity of India. Utilization of public funds, challenges of corruption.
    9th December, Monday Role of women and women’s organization. Case Studies
    10th December, Tuesday Population and associated issues, poverty, and developmental issues. Case Studies
    11th December, Wednesday Urbanization, their problems, and their remedies. Case Studies
    12th December, Thursday Effects of globalization on Indian society. Case Studies
    13th December, Friday Social empowerment, communalism, regionalism & secularism. Case Studies
    16th December, Monday Salient features of the world’s physical geography. Essence, determinants, and consequences of Ethics in human actions; dimensions of ethics; ethics in private and public relationships.
    17th December, Tuesday Distribution of key natural resources across the world. Human Values
    18th December, Wednesday Factors responsible for the location of primary, secondary, and tertiary sector industries. Attitude
    19th December, Thursday Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone, etc. Aptitude and foundational values for Civil Service, integrity, impartiality and non-partisanship, objectivity, dedication to public service, empathy, tolerance and compassion towards the weaker sections.
    20th December, Friday Changes in critical geographical features (including water-bodies and ice-caps) and in flora and fauna and the effects of such changes. Emotional intelligence concepts.
    23rd December, Monday Indian culture covering the salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature, and Architecture. Contributions of moral thinkers and philosophers from India and the world.
    24th December, Tuesday Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the present. Case Studies
    25th December, Wednesday The Freedom Struggle – its various stages and important contributors /contributions from different parts of the country. Case Studies
    26th December, Thursday Post-independence consolidation and reorganization within the country. Case Studies
    27th December, Friday History of the world including events from the 18th century.  Case Studies

     

    January 2020

    Date Question 1 Question 4
    1st January, Wednesday Political philosophies like communism, capitalism, socialism, etc.- their forms and effect on the society. Public/Civil service values and Ethics in Public administration.
    2nd January, Thursday Indian Society and Diversity of India. Ethical concerns and dilemmas in government and private institutions.
    3rd January, Friday Role of women and women’s organization. Laws, rules, regulations, and conscience as sources of ethical guidance.
    6th January, Monday Population and associated issues, poverty, and developmental issues. Case Studies
    7th January, Tuesday Urbanization, their problems, and their remedies. Case Studies
    8th January, Wednesday Effects of globalization on Indian society. Case Studies
    9th January, Thursday Social empowerment, communalism, regionalism & secularism. Case Studies
    10th January, Friday Salient features of the world’s physical geography. Case Studies
    13th January, Monday Distribution of key natural resources across the world. Accountability and ethical governance; strengthening of ethical and moral values in governance.
    14th January, Tuesday Factors responsible for the location of primary, secondary, and tertiary sector industries. Ethical issues in international relations and funding; corporate governance.
    15th January, Wednesday Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone, etc. Concept of public service; Philosophical basis of governance and probity.
    16th January, Thursday Changes in critical geographical features (including water-bodies and ice-caps) and in flora and fauna and the effects of such changes. Information sharing and transparency in government, Right to Information.
    17th January, Friday Indian culture covering the salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature, and Architecture. Codes of Ethics, Codes of Conduct, Citizen’s Charters. 
    20th January, Monday Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the present. Case Studies
    21st January, Tuesday The Freedom Struggle – its various stages and important contributors /contributions from different parts of the country. Case Studies
    22nd January, Wednesday Post-independence consolidation and reorganization within the country. Case Studies
    23rd January, Thursday History of the world including events from the 18th century.  Case Studies
    24th January, Friday Political philosophies like communism, capitalism, socialism, etc.- their forms and effect on the society. Case Studies
    27th January, Monday Indian Society and Diversity of India. Work culture, Quality of service delivery.


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    (bi-monthly payments accepted)

     

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  • Happy Enlightening Diwali

    Distribution:

     

    May this great festival of lights enlighten you from within and without.

  • Get ready for upcoming September Current Affairs Prelims Test on 26th October- sample questions highlighting our methodology

    Distribution:

    Click here to enroll for the Prime Prelims TS

    Dear students,

    31st May 2020 is the D-day for all civil service aspirants.

    “Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the ax.”

    This quote by Abraham Lincoln sums up how one should prepare for that day. So before entering the battlefield alone should have enough practice. Our Prime Prelims Test series which shall enrich you to acquaint yourself with the pattern of CSE-2020, assess your abilities, rectify your mistakes and make you confident to appear on the examination day.

    Our Prime Prelims Test Series follows the same approach as that adopted by UPSC. Our team of experts is quite enriched with the UPSC pattern and focal point of the questions and hence creates more chances for the aspirants to crack civil service examination by appearing our Test Series.

    The key philosophy of our prelims TS is Evidence-based question making: The 3600 questions you face in our mocks have their relevance established in UPSC’s trend analysis. We focus on themes that are important as per UPSC so that we maximize your chances of questions overlap with the actual UPSC Prelims.

    Nothing speaks more than the facts itself rather than a mere jargon. Here is a list of 5 sample questions from the upcoming test which will help you in identifying the standards and approach we follow. (you can skip this if you want to attempt these directly in the test). 

    Noone but only you can assess how it will help you in being the top percentile of aspirants. You have to practice ruthlessly and civils Daily provides you with a platform to hone your skills.

    Q.1) With reference to International science projects, consider the following:

    1. Large Hadron Collider (LHC)– The God Particle
    2. Thirty Metre Telescope (TMT) – The World’s Most Advanced Telescope
    3. International-Thermonuclear-Experimental-Reactor (ITER) – Fusion Energy
    4. Facility for Antiproton and Ion Research (FAIR) – Antiproton and Ion Research

    Which of the above projects have India’s active participation?

    a. 1 only

    b. 2 and 3 only

    c. 1, 3 and 4 only

    d. All of them

     

    Q.2) Project ANDREX is in news related to:

    a. the finding of biological carbon pump in the Antarctic ocean

    b. the discovery and confirmation of methane on the surface of Mars

    c. climate change impact in the Arctic ice sheets

    d. None of the above

     

    Q.3) Consider the following pairs regarding Water Harvesting Practices:

    Practices                                        States

    1. Mission Kakatiya                  Telangana

    2. Pani Panchayat                    Jharkhand

    3. Jalyukta Shivar Abhiyan   Gujarat

    Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?

    a. 1 only

    b. 2 and 3 only

    c. 1 and 3 only

    d. All of them

     

    Q.4) The following statements describe which of the given places in the options?

    1. It lies on the Coromandel Coast which faces the Bay of Bengal.

    2. It is also known as Seven Pagodas.

    3. The entire assemblage of monuments of this town collectively designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1984.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    a. Puri

    b. Kakinada

    c. Mamallapuram

    d. Madurai

     

    Q.5) Consider the following statements with respect to Eastern Economic Forum (EEF)

    1. It was established to support the economic development of eastern countries in the Asia-Pacific region.

    2. India participated in the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF) that was held in Vladivostok, Russia.

    Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?

    a. 1 only

    b. 2 only

    c. Both of them

    d. Neither of them

  • Gear up for today’s Environment Mains test | Mains Essential Program 2020

    Distribution: ,

    2020 – Mains Essentials Program . Click here to enrol now! 

    Click here for master Master Timetable for Batch 2. The dates of the mains program are also mentioned.


    Dear Students,

    As aspirants, we all have a tendency to wait for that perfect moment when we would have completed the syllabus and done with all the revisions before we get to attempting answer writing.

    The bitter truth is that there is no such perfect moment. It is only delaying your answer writing. You should remember that you will build confidence only by writing more and more answers, not by postponing the date to be more thorough with the .

    Some things are best learnt by doing. Take swimming for example. You will only learn when you jump in the pool, not by tutorials or by watching others swim.

    A test series gives you the opportunity to test yourself and also helps you in improving your writing.

    Our Mains Test Series had the highest hit ratio among all the Test Series. If you followed our platform/study material, you would’ve written above average answers for all questions. Almost 60 percent Questions in UPSC Mains 2019 GS 1,2,3 and 4  came from our test series.

     

     

    We are excited to launch our Mains essential program for 2020. As usual, we are incorporating a lot of feedback and bringing a better offering.

    Here are some sample questions from our Environment sectional mains test

    Q.) The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process was brought with an ideal intention but it has lost its importance and practical utility. Critically examine. (10 marks)

    Q.) As the Arctic continued to be warm and the temperature difference relative to the equator has reduced, many strange climate anomalies have been witnessed around the world. Examine. (10 Marks)

    Q.) National Urban Transport Policy emphasizes on ‘moving people’ instead of ‘moving vehicles’. Discuss critically the success of the various strategies of the government in this regard. (10 marks)

    Q.) Expediting the migration to electric mobility(E-vehicles) will not just benefit India environmentally but also economically and socially? Discuss

    Q.) What is sustainable development mechanism(SDM)? Compare and contrast it with clean development mechanism? What are the possible challenges and benefits of SDM? discuss. (15 marks)

    Program Inclusions

    1. Checked Copy Discussion on Phone
    We are known to provide individual attention to students. We have further standardized our program. Now students can schedule a call within 2 days of receiving their checked copies by replying back to us with their availability. We have kept it 2 days so your mentors can easily recall your attempt.
    This is the biggest reason why you should join our TS. Major issues with your attempt will be highlighted and your improvement will be tracked in subsequent tests.

    2. Question Formulation
    Our questions will now specifically state that
    >Whether they are straightforward or thought-provoking/analytical.
    >Whether they have subparts.
    >Why this question – similar previous year questions, the importance of the theme, etc.
    CD Innovation – Rather than the regular uninspiring questions, we have gone the extra mile and crafted unique, intellectually-stimulating questions. These will reward analytical ability and critical thinking. These questions will be marked with a ‘star’.

    3. Model Answers
    > For ‘thought-provoking/analytical‘ type of questions, we’ll provide the best way to approach them.
    > Alternate introductions
    > Sub-headings and categorization to enhance readability and answer structure.
    > Color coding for main arguments, reports, data, scholars, etc.
    > OTB – *Out of the box points for additional marks*

    4. Answer Checking
    Answer-copy evaluation in the industry has become stagnant. The focus is restricted to superficial, memory-based lapses rather than on analytical excellence and cross-domain inter-linkages.
    Our stress will be on the following –
    1. Superior introduction and conclusion.
    2. Usage of subject-specific vocabulary.
    3. Articulation proficiency.
    4. Substantiating evidence like Government and International Reports and Indices.
    5. Prominent and contemporary examples.
    Thorough answer checking with oversight of rankers like Dr. Vipin Garg(AIR 20), Swapnil Pawar (AIR 525)

    5. Video Discussion
    There will be a video discussion after every test where the mentor will discuss how you can write the best answers to the questions asked in the test. Mentors will also be sharing answer writing strategy with students so that they can gain extra marks in Mains

    6. One to one mentorship 
    We believe in constant guidance and support approach and therefore we will provide a dedicated one to one mentorship group for students of the module where they can have peer discussions as well as doubt clearance via mentors.
    The group will also have toppers who will personally guide the students. The students can always raise there preparation related query in the group.

    7. Magazines, listicles and other relevant study material
    Supplementary content provided will be helpful in covering multiple related questions.

    2020 – Mains Essentials Program . Click here to enrol now! 

    Click here for master Master Timetable for Batch 2. The dates of the mains program are also mentioned.

     

  • Gear up for This week’s Samachar Manthan lecture on 20th October

    Distribution:

    Dear students,

    We understand that the UPSC exam is a generalist exam. It’s more important to cover more issues than to cover one issue in more depth. Hence, through Samachar Manthan, we are trying to maintain a fine balance of covering many important news items and having a detailed discussion on selected topics which require the same. On daily basis a news gets repeated multiple times. Scattered knowledge is not adequately useful when you have to write a 200 words answer within 6-7 minutes. To handle this, Samachar manthan covers such issues in a comprehensive and consolidated manner which is the smart strategy.

    Benefits of Samachar Manthan

    • Packed 3 – 3.5 hours Weekly videos will focus on news and its importance from both prelims and mains perspective.
    • This program will also help you understand how to utilize current affairs in all your prelims and mains papers.
    • This ideology makes this course the best utilization of your time.
    • Detailed coverage would mean analysis from all the angles like background or history, features, significance, challenges and way forward. Also, multiple sources like epw, diplomat magazine etc will be referred to in the video lectures.
    • Such an approach will help in writing multidimensional answers.
    • Also which part of the topic is important from mains and prelims perspective will also be discussed.
    • Audio Visual Learning is more impactful than simply glancing through the material. So that you are able to retain information for long also interlink with any new information you get.
    • 4 stage structure of Video->Notes->testing->review to perfect your preparation
    • The sequence of video->Notes->testing->review is the best way to ensure maximum retention and a rock solid preparation. Each component of the program has been meticulously crafted.

    For example this week, we will be covering the following issues;

    Economics

    •  [Op-ed snap] Regulator needs to address risks to financial stability
    • Green Channel Combination
    • Automatic Exchange of Information (AEOI) Programme
    • [op-ed snap] The great disruption of 2016
    • [op-ed snap] A land of missed calls and revised deadlines
    • Global Competitiveness Index 2019
    • Slowdown in the credit flow
    • Can the government intercept WhatsApp?
    • Small businesses provide most jobs in underdeveloped, developing nations: ILO
    • [op-ed snap] The efficiency promise of the bankruptcy code
    • India’s industrial production shrinks 1.1% in August
    • [op-ed snap] The policy way out
    • Issues in cooperative banks

    Enviro & Biodiversity

    • The fight over Mumbai’s Aarey Colony
    • Evolution of Universe after the Big Bang
    • Graded Response Action Plan
    • [oped of the day] Rethinking water management issues
    • GEMINI system to aid fishermen
    • Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI)

    Governance

    • e-DantSeva
    • World Vision Report
    • [op-ed snap] Uncaging India
    • WHO India Country Cooperation Strategy 2019–2023
    • Pradhan Mantri Innovative Learning Programme (PMILP) – ‘DHRUV’
    • Mahatma Gandhi National Fellowship Programme
    • [op-ed snap] The minimum wage solution
    • Government launches SUMAN scheme, assures free medicines for pregnant women
    • [oped of the day] Let’s use cognitive science insights for better learning

    History

    • Satnami Rebellion
    • Mahabalipuram’s China connection

    International Relations

    • Turkish offensive in Syria
    • India-Bangladesh relations
    • [oped of the day] Techno-Politics: Focus on China’s facial recognition technologies
    • RCEP
    • Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) 2019
    • Modi-Xi ‘Informal Summit’

    Polity

    [op-ed snap] Privacy rights & wrongs 54

    Science Tech

    • Nobel Prize in Chemistry: for Lithium ion battery
    • 82 Moons orbiting Saturn
    • [op-ed snap] How things work
    • Elastocaloric effect
    • Ionospheric Connection Explorer
    • [oped of the day] On AI, various government agencies have conflicting and confusing strategies

     

    So to be thorough in your preparation and to have an integrated approach, join Samachar Manthan here.

  • Get ready for upcoming Environment and Biodiversity Prelims Test on 19th October- sample questions highlighting our methodology

    Distribution:

    Click here to enroll for the Prime Prelims TS

    Dear students,

    31st May 2020 is the D-day for all civil service aspirants.

    “Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the ax.”

    This quote by Abraham Lincoln sums up how one should prepare for that day. So before entering the battlefield alone should have enough practice. Our Prime Prelims Test series which shall enrich you to acquaint yourself with the pattern of CSE-2020, assess your abilities, rectify your mistakes and make you confident to appear on the examination day.

    Our Prime Prelims Test Series follows the same approach as that adopted by UPSC. Our team of experts is quite enriched with the UPSC pattern and focal point of the questions and hence creates more chances for the aspirants to crack civil service examination by appearing our Test Series.

    The key philosophy of our prelims TS is Evidence-based question making: The 3600 questions you face in our mocks have their relevance established in UPSC’s trend analysis. We focus on themes that are important as per UPSC so that we maximize your chances of questions overlap with the actual UPSC Prelims.

    Nothing speaks more than the facts itself rather than a mere jargon. Here is a list of 5 sample questions from the upcoming test which will help you in identifying the standards and approach we follow. (you can skip this if you want to attempt these directly in the test). 

    Noone but only you can assess how it will help you in being the top percentile of aspirants. You have to practice ruthlessly and civils Daily provides you with a platform to hone your skills.

    Q.1) Which of the following are the likely consequences of an increase in the concentration of Carbon dioxide in the atmosphere?

    1. There would be an increase in the rate of photosynthesis in the plants
    2. Nitrogen fixation in root nodules will be increased
    3. There would be an increase in rate of transpiration

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a. 1 and 3 only

    b. 2 and 3 only

    c. 1 and 2 only

    d. All of them

     

    Q.2) With reference to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), consider the following statements:

    1. It aims to ensure that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival.
    2. It was adopted under the aegis of members of IUCN.
    3. It is legally binding on the Parties and take the place of national laws.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    a. 1 only

    b. 1 and 2 only

    c. 2 and 3 only

    d. All of the

     

    Q.3) Which of the following is/are sources of soil pollution?

    1. Fly ash from thermal power plants
    2. Use of inorganic fertilizers in agriculture
    3. Dumping of hospital organic wastes
    4. Incineration and pyrolysis

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

    a. 1 and 3 only

    b. 2 and 4 only.

    c. 2 and 3 only

    d. All of them

     

    Q.4) Consider the following statements regarding Biodiversity Hotspot:

    1. A Biodiversity hotspot is a biogeographic region with a rich pool of biodiversity that threatened by the human.
    2. The Western Ghats, the Eastern Ghats, the Western Himalayas, and the Eastern Himalayas are the only 4 Biodiversity hotspots in India.

    Which of the above statement is/are correct?

    a. 1 only

    b. 2 only

    c. Both of them

    d. Neither of them

     

    Q.5) Which of the following are the effects of Global warming?

    1. The clashing of warm and cold fronts would result in more violent weather.
    2. Due to warming, more water will be evaporated from seas leading to consistent high rainfall.
    3. Agricultural productivity of temperate regions will decline.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    a. 1 and 2 only

    b. 1 and 3 only

    c. 2 and 3 only

    d. All of them