Category: Strategy Sessions

  • [Prelims Spotlight] System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), Indian mission on the Antarctic, Denotified, Semi-Nomadic and Nomadic Tribes, Swadhar Grehs


    Here are  Back2Basics collections from today’s news items

    B2B #1: From news- [pib] New SAFAR system with Air Quality Early Warning System

    System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR)

    1. Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), Govt. of India, has introduced a major national initiative “SAFAR” for greater metropolitan cities of India to provide location-specific information on air quality in near real time and its forecast 1-3 days in advance for the first time in India
    2. It was started under the plan scheme “Metropolitan Advisories for Cities for Sports, Tourism (Metropolitan Air Quality and Weather Services)
    3. The SAFAR system is developed by Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, Pune, along with ESSO partner institutions namely India Meteorological Department (IMD) and National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting (NCMRWF)
    4. The implementation of SAFAR is done with an active collaboration with local municipal corporations and various local educational institutions and governmental agencies in that Metro city.
    5. It was started on a Pilot basis in the cities of Pune, Ahmadabad, New Delhi and Mumbai

    B2B #2: From news- India to expand polar research to Arctic as well

    Indian mission on the Antarctic

    1. The Indian Antarctic Program is a multi-disciplinary, multi-institutional program under the control of the National Centre for Antarctic and Ocean Research, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Government of India.
    2. It was initiated in 1981 with the first Indian expedition to Antarctica.
    3. The program gained global acceptance with India’s signing of the Antarctic Treaty and subsequent construction of the Dakshin Gangotri Antarctic research base in 1983, superseded by the Maitri base from 1990.
    4. The newest base commissioned in 2015 is Bharati, constructed out of 134 shipping containers.

    Indian mission on the Arctic

    1. Himadri Station is India’s first Arctic research station located at Spitsbergen, Svalbard, Norway. It is located at the International Arctic Research base, Ny-Ålesund.
    2. It was inaugurated on the 1st of July, 2008 by the Minister of Earth Sciences. It is followed by IndARC.
    3. The United States Geological Survey estimates that 22% of the world’s oil and natural gas could be located beneath the Arctic.
    4.  ONGC Videsh has signed joint-venture with Russia for oil exploration there.

    Arctic Council

    1. It is an advisory body that promotes cooperation among member nations and indigenous groups as per the Ottawa Declaration of 1996.
    2. Its focus is on sustainable development and environmental protection of the Arctic,
    3. The Arctic Council consists of the eight Arctic States: Canada, the Kingdom of Denmark (including Greenland and the Faroe Islands), Finland, Iceland, Norway, Russia, Sweden and the United States.
    4. India and China are one of the observer countries since 2013.

    B2B #3: From news- Niti Aayog nod to panel for denotified, semi-nomadic, nomadic tribes

    Denotified, Semi-Nomadic and Nomadic Tribes

    1. Denotified tribes are those that were labelled as criminals through a legislation by the British government and were denotified post-independence
    2. The Nomadic tribes maintain constant geographical mobility
    3. Semi-nomads are those who are on the move but return to fixed habitation once a year, mainly for occupational reasons
    4. The DNT, NT, SNT communities have been identified as the most marginalised by several commissions set up since Independence
    5. From these communities 90 percent or more members are landless

    Here’s a Factoid to brush up your concepts

    Name of the scheme : Swadhar Grehs

    Objectives : Homes for relief and rehabilitation of women in difficult circumstances including survivors of rape/assault etc. Provision for food clothing, councelling. training, clinical and legal aid ; long term

    Nodal Ministry : Ministry of Women & Child

  • 21 July 2018 | High Relevance vs Low Relevance News , Govt. Posters for easy recall

    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

    ‘Rent-a-lab’ policy to bring revenues to institutions

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/rent-a-lab-policy-to-bring-revenues-to-institutions/

    Read and make notes about SRIMAN policy. This is a progressive step to promote research in India

    Explained: No-Confidence Motion

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/explained-no-confidence-motion/

    Very nice article covering No Confidence motion in entirety. A must-read for both Pre as well as Mains

    [op-ed snap] The fake academia

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/op-ed-snap-the-fake-academia/

    Very good editorial highlighting the trend of predatory publishing in India and how it is affecting India’s reputation in the research sector around the world. Important for Mains

    Low Relevance News

    Rajnath set to ease worries before NRC final draft is out

    Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh is expected to issue a statement on the ongoing update of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam. As directed by the Supreme Court, the Registrar-General of India will have to publish the final list on July 30 to segregate Indian citizens in Assam from those who entered the State illegally from Bangladesh after March 25, 1971

    No important details in news from exam perspective

    ‘Taking steps to prevent misuse ahead of polls’

    WhatsApp has informed the Election Commission (EC) that it will take various steps ahead of polls to prevent the misuse of its messaging platform, and bring to India its fake news verification model — Verificado — that has been used in Mexican elections and deployed in Brazil which has been used in other markets.

    The only important term in news is Verificado. Nothing else is important.


    Govt. Poster for easy recall

     

     

  • [Prelims Spotlight] World sustainable Development summit, International Agrobiodiversity Congress

    Here’s a Factoid to brush up your concepts

    Name : World sustainable Development summit

    Brief Intro : WSDS has replaced TERI’s earlier called Delhi Sustainable Development Summit (DSDS). The first DSDS was organised in 2005. It underscored need for businesses and private sector to take lead in poverty reduction and to ensure rapid and sustained adoption of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It had brought together Nobel laureates, decision-makers political leaders from around the world to deliberate on issues related to sustainable development.

    Objective : The aim of the summit is to provide various stakeholders a single platform in order to provide long-term solutions for the benefit of the global community.

    Type : Summit/ Conference

    Category : E&B

    Year : 2017

    Importance (wr. Prelims) : high

    Key Terms/ Institutions spinoffs : The summit was organised by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) with the theme Beyond 2015: People, Planet and Progress.

    Name : International Agrobiodiversity Congress

    Brief Intro : 1.The first International Agrobiodiversity Congress (IAC) held in New Delhi has adopted New Delhi Declaration on Agrobiodiversity Management 2.In the declaration, 900 participants from 60 countries have urged researchers and policy-makers to strengthen and promote complementary conservation strategies to conserve and use agrobiodiversity.

    Type : Declaration

    Category : E&B

    Year :  2016

    Importance (wr. Prelims) : Medium

    Place : New Delhi

  • 20 July 2018 | High Relevance vs Low Relevance News , Govt. Posters for easy recall

    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

    The Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Bill, 2017

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/the-motor-vehicles-amendment-bill-2017/

    A new era of road safety rules and logistics sector is expected to usher from this bill. Read in detail. Can be asked in Mains.

    ‘Nobody has an exclusionary right of temple entry’

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/nobody-has-an-exclusionary-right-of-temple-entry/

    Read along with the op-ed highlighted in the news. An important case of fundamental as well as human rights.

    Low Relevance News

    U.P. police to deploy digital volunteers to check rumours

    In the wake of mob lynching incidents triggered by rumours spread through social media, the Uttar Pradesh police have decided to recruit “digital volunteers” at every police station in the State to curb the menace of rumours and bust illegal activities

    Not much important from UPSC perspective

    Freedom of navigation existential necessity: Singapore

    Freedom of navigation is an existential necessity for Singapore, said its foreign minister Vivian Balakrishnan at the 10th edition of Delhi Dialogue between India and the Southeast Asian countries

    Not many details in the news that are important for UPSC

     


    Govt. Poster for easy recall

     

  • Launching Batch 2 of Samachar Manthan 2018

    UPDATE 1

    We will also provide Economic Survey & Budget Analysis Videos covering key concepts and important terms for Prelims and Mains 2018/19

    Economic Survey analysis will be available from 2016 to 2018 covering trends in Indian Economy as well as key issues related to it.

    We are also releasing 60+ Hours of Advanced Video Lectures on Static subjects – Polity, History, Geography, Economy

    These cover the most important topics from Prelims perspective

    Basic knowledge will be helpful in understanding these though it’s not mandatory

    We are delighted to launch Batch 2 of Samachar Manthan as well as Samachar Manthan with Answer Writing for 2018-2019. The course is designed to help you develop a solid command on your newspaper reading and current affairs analyzing skills. Since it builds your core, it is important for both prelims and mains.

    The program will cover Current Affairs from June 2018 to November 2018 (For the 6 months batch)

    For Yearly batch, the coverage will be from June 2018 to May 2019


    Join Batch 2 of Samachar Manthan with Answer Writing here: Click2Join

    If you wish to join Batch 2 of Samachar Manthan without Answer Writing, join here: Click2Join

    Samachar Manthan Yearly with Answer Writing Module (June 2018 to May 2019) – Rs 15000 + Taxes Click2Join

    Samachar Manthan Yearly 2018-19 (June 2018 to May 2019) – Rs 9000 + taxes Click2Join


    Watch some Video Lectures of the program here:

    View the topics covered in Week 1 & download detailed notes here:  Click2Download


    Our students have benefited a lot from the classes and many have done well in 2018 Prelims despite the paper being tricky. Read a few testimonials here:


    What are we offering and how is it unique?

    1. Mentorship and guidance taken to a whole new level 

    Once you enroll, you’ll be assigned a Telegram group headed by Sajal Sir and rankers like Dr. Vipin Garg AIR 20, Swapnil Pawar AIR 525 and others.   Our past students have found this immensely beneficial.

    • A convenient way to resolve your doubts and queries.
    • You’ll be provided with value-added material which is very important.
    • You’ll have an ecosystem to study and learn from.
    • Above all, it will help you stay focused every day.

    Here’s what some of our students had to say about our mentorship.    

    2. 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.

    3. Our video lectures and notes on weekly CA are brief but comprehensive   Packed 3-3.5 hours Weekly videos will focus on news and its importance from both prelims and mains perspective. 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, we maintain a fine balance of covering cover many important news items and have a detailed discussion on selected topics which require the same. 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.

    Here’s what some of our students had to say about the lectures.

       

     

    4. Guest Lectures on specific issues by Dr. Vipin Garg, IAS (Rank 20, UPSC 2016) and our distinguished mentor K.Siddhartha Sir.   Besides the above, you will have access to our monthly magazines and weekly notes/links to important news/external material. You will have access to all modules included in our Mentorship program – Study-plan, strategy discussion, specific weaknesses, overall guidance. Since our mentors will have information about your performance

    5. Weekly Mains Test and Evaluation by our team of subject experts   The video and notes will be followed by a test released every weekend. It will have 10 high-quality questions. This will complete your study loop and enhance your retention. >Mains level questions with feedback. Sample review is attached.

         > Answer Enhancement We chose the Question & Answer format because it is perfectly aligned with the requirements of the exam. Having information is very different from presenting it in an answer with a proper structure. This will help in better retention of prelims specific information and prepare a solid ground for your mains prep. After every 2nd test you attempt, you can reach out to our mentors for personalized feedback.

    6. Current Affairs Monthly Prelims Test package This was a feedback we received from many students. They wanted appropriate focus on the current affairs program.    Prime Students get their usual discount of 30%

    Join Batch 2 of Samachar Manthan with Answer Writing here: Click2Join

    If you wish to join Batch 2 of Samachar Manthan without Answer Writing, join here: Click2Join

  • [Prelims Spotlight] Sarkar, Sondhar

    Here’s a Factoid to brush up your concepts

    Key words related to History : Sarkar

    Dynasty/era : Mughal period

    Meaning : Comparable to modern day district

    Key words related to History : Sondhar

    Dynasty/era : Tuglaq period

    Meaning : Loans to the peasants by Mohammad Bin tughluq.

  • 19 July 2018 | High Relevance vs Low Relevance News , Govt. Posters for easy recall

    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

    WCD ministry set to move cabinet to make child marriages invalid

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/wcd-ministry-set-to-move-cabinet-to-make-child-marriages-invalid/

    Although a surprise but it’s true that child marriages are valid in India! Now, the government is set to change the law to make them invalid. Note stats and details and use in Mains anwers

    Govt decides to withdraw contentious FRDI bill

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/govt-decides-to-withdraw-contentious-frdi-bill/

    Read about bail in & bail out. Can be asked in Prelims.

    Cabinet relaxes NELP, pre-NELP pact rules

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/cabinet-relaxes-nelp-pre-nelp-pact-rules/

    Read about NELP & HELP for Prelims. Also, implications of world oil trade fluctuations on India is a hot topic for Mains.

    Newest phase in Earth’s history named after Meghalaya rock

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/newest-phase-in-earths-history-named-after-meghalaya-rock/

    Very important geological finding and becomes way more special as it is connected to India. Read and note all details. Can be asked in Prelims.

    Low Relevance News

    Unemployment data survey ongoing; results in three months: Centre to Rajya Sabha

    Admitting that nationwide unemployment data is not available since late 2016, the government told the Rajya Sabha that it is in the process of conducting surveys and will release the data within the next two to three months

    Nothing important in news from UPSC point of view

    Chabahar port project delayed due to Iran: Jaishankar

    A major reason for delay in execution of the Chabahar port project is due to delays from the Iranian side, said former Foreign Secretary S. Jaishankar

    Chahbahar port has been in news and discussed in detail various times. No new details in this news


    Govt. Poster for easy recall

     

  • [Prelims Spotlight] New Exploration Licensing Policy (NELP), Hydrocarbon Exploration and Licensing Policy (HELP), CASSINI MISSION


    Here are  Back2Basics collections from today’s news items

    B2B #1: From news-Cabinet relaxes NELP, pre-NELP pact rules

    New Exploration Licensing Policy (NELP)

    1. New Exploration Licensing Policy (NELP) was conceptualized by the Government of India, during 1997-98 to provide an equal platform to both Public and Private sector companies in exploration and production of hydrocarbons.
    2. It provided for establishment of Directorate General of Hydrocarbons (DGH) as a nodal agency for its implementation.
    3. It was introduced to boost the production of oil and natural gas and providing level playing field for both public and private players.
    4. India has an estimated sedimentary area of 3.14 million km2. consisting of 26 sedimentary basins, of which, 57% (1.79 million km2.) area is in deepwater and remaining 43% (1.35 million km2.) area is in inland and shallow offshore.
    5. At present 1.06 million km2 area is held under Petroleum Exploration Licenses in 18 basins by national oil companies viz. Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC), OIL India Limited (OIL) and Private/Joint Venture companies.
    6. Before implementation of the New Exploration Licensing Policy (NELP) in 1999, a mere 11% of Indian sedimentary basins were under exploration, which has now increased extensively over the years.

    Hydrocarbon Exploration and Licensing Policy (HELP)

    1. It is a policy adopted by Government of India on 10.03.2016 indicating the new contractual and fiscal model for award of hydrocarbon acreages towards exploration and production (E&P).
    2. HELP is applicable for all future contracts to be awarded.
    3. HELP replaces the present policy regime for exploration and production of oil and gas, known as New Exploration Licensing Policy (NELP), which has been in existence for 18 years.
    4. Features of HELP:
    • Uniform License: It provides for a uniform licensing system to cover all hydrocarbons such as oil, gas, coal bed methane etc. under a single licensing framework, instead of the present system of issuing separate licenses for each kind of hydrocarbons.
    • Open Acreages: It gives the option to a hydrocarbon company to select the exploration blocks throughout the year without waiting for the formal bid round from the Government.
    • Revenue Sharing Model: Present fiscal system of production sharing contract (PSC) is replaced by an easy to administer “revenue sharing model”. The earlier contracts were based on the concept of profit sharing where profits are shared between Government and the contractor after recovery of cost.
    • Marketing and Pricing Freedom: It has been granted, subject to a ceiling price limit, for new gas production from Deepwater, Ultra Deepwater and High Pressure-High Temperature Areas.

    Here’s a Factoid to brush up your concepts

    Name : CASSINI MISSION

    Details : Cassini mission to Saturn is ending its journey. It will dive towards the Saturn and burn up in its atmosphere in October.

  • 18 July 2018 | High Relevance vs Low Relevance News , Govt. Posters for easy recall

    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] Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA)

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-central-adoption-resource-authority-cara/

    Read about CARA and Hague adoption convention. Can be asked in Prelims.

    President clears Assam Bill against witch-hunt

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/president-clears-assam-bill-against-witch-hunt/

    Superstitious practices across the country have lead to various deaths. Assam has enacted a law to ensure women safety and do away with such superstitions. Note details. Can be asked in Mains.

    Centre increases CVs’ load carrying capacity

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/centre-increases-cvs-load-carrying-capacity/

    Make notes about FASTag. Can be asked in Prelims.

    Low Relevance News

    Govt taking steps to improve accuracy of IMD’s prediction

    The Government is taking various steps to further improve the accuracy of predictions made by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD). Under the Monsoon Mission, a new dynamical prediction system for long-range forecasting of Indian monsoon has been implemented by the IMD

    Nothing important in news from UPSC perspective

    215 post office passport service centres opened in four years: govt

    As many as 215 post office passport service centres were opened in different parts of the country for the benefit of the common man in the last four years

    Nothing important in news from exam point of view


    Govt. Poster for easy recall

     

  • [Prelims Spotlight] FASTags, Hague Adoption Convention, BCAS (Bureau of Civil Aviation Security), INSV Tarini


    Here are  Back2Basics collections from today’s news items

    B2B #1: From news- Centre increases CVs’ load carrying capacity

    FASTags

    1. FASTag devices employ Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology to make toll payments from the prepaid account directly linked with it.
    2. The windscreens of the vehicles are fitted with it.
    3. It enables the four-wheelers to drive through the toll plazas without having to wait for cash transactions at the toll.
    4. A separate lane will be dedicated for such FASTag users.

    B2B #2: From news- [pib] Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA)

    Hague Adoption Convention

    1. The Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption is an international convention dealing with international adoption, child laundering, and child trafficking.
    2. The Convention was developed by the Hague Conference on Private International Law, the preeminent organization in the area of private international law. It was concluded on 29 May 1993 and entered into force on 1 May 1995.
    3. It is an effort to protect those involved from the corruption, abuses, and exploitation which sometimes accompanies international adoption.
    4. The Convention has been considered crucial because it provides a formal international and intergovernmental recognition of intercountry adoption to ensure that adoptions under the Convention will generally be recognized and given effect in other party countries.
    5. 96 countries including India has signed and ratified this convention. Whereas Nepal, South Korea and Russia are yet to ratify it.

    B2B #3: From news- Counter-drone strategy for airports ready

    BCAS (Bureau of Civil Aviation Security)

    1. The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security is an attached office of the Ministry of Civil Aviation of India
    2. BCAS is the regulatory authority for civil aviation security in India. It is headed by an officer of the rank of Director General  of Police  and is designated  as Commissioner of   Security (Civil Aviation)
    3. Commissioner of security (CA) is the appropriate authority for implementation of Annexure 17 to Chicago convention of International civil aviation organization (ICAO)
    4. Commissioner of security (CA) is responsible for the development, implementation and maintenance of the National Civil Aviation Security Programme
    5. The main responsibility of BCAS are laying down standards and measures in  respect of security of  civil flights  at International  and  domestic  airports in India

    Here’s a Factoid to brush up your concepts

    Name : INSV Tarini

    Defence Forces : Navy

    Module Type : Warships

    Brief Intro : 1.The Indian Navy’s second ocean going sailboat Tarini was recently inducted. INSV Tarini is a sloop built by M/s Aquarius Shipyard Pvt Ltd at Divar, Goa. 2.The sail boat Tarini is being inducted into the Navy and is slated to be the platform for First Indian All Women Circumnavigation of the Globe expedition of the Indian Navy.

    Note4students : Sailboat

  • [Prelims Spotlight] BrahMos, BirdLife International


    Here are  Back2Basics collections from today’s news items

    B2B #1: From news- BrahMos tested in extreme weather conditions

    BrahMos

    1. BrahMos is a joint collaboration between India and Russia and is capable of being launched from land, sea, sub-sea and air against the surface and sea-based targets
    2. It has a strike range of around 290 km and is described as the world’s fastest supersonic cruise missile.
    3. The range of the supersonic missile was initially capped at 290 km as per the obligations of the Missile Technology Control Regime
    4. Since India’s entry into the club, the range has been extended to 450 km and the plan is to hit 600km.
    5. The Army and the Navy have already inducted the missile, while the air-launched variant is undergoing trials.

    Here’s a Factoid to brush up your concepts

    Name : BirdLife International

    Recently in News because : Publishes a quarterly magazine – World Birdwatch.

    Objective : BirdLife International is the official Red List authority for birds for the International Union for Conservation of Nature It is the world’s largest partnership of conservation organisations, with over 120 partner organisations. Key Biodiversity Areas (KBA) are sites that contribute to the global persistence of biodiversity, including vital habitat for threatened plant and animal species in terrestrial, freshwater and marine ecosystems. Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas (IBAs) are KBAs identified for birds using internationally agreed criteria applied locally by BirdLife Partners and experts

    Year Founded : 1922

    Category : Environment

  • 17 July 2018 | High Relevance vs Low Relevance News , Govt. Posters for easy recall

    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

    Be cautious in shifting to DBT, RBI tells States

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/be-cautious-in-shifting-to-dbt-rbi-tells-states/

    Note benefits and problems associated with DBT. Can be asked in Mains

    Upgraded Vikas engine will soon boost ISRO’s rockets

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/upgraded-vikas-engine-will-soon-boost-isros-rockets/

    ISRO achievements have been a favourite of UPSC. No point in missing these. Read all the details.

    U.N. agrees first-ever global compact for migration

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/u-n-agrees-first-ever-global-compact-for-migration/

    The entire globe is gripped in migrant crisis in some way or the other. This has now led to UN coming forward and initiating a global pact for ensuring the welfare of migrants. Read and make notes.

    BrahMos tested in extreme weather conditions

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/brahmos-tested-in-extreme-weather-conditions/

    Know about BrahMos launch capabilities and its range after India joined MTCR. A potential prelims question

    Low Relevance News

    Army to resume M777 trials

    The Army will resume the trials of the U.S.-made M777 Ultra-Light Howitzer (ULH) in Pokhran firing range. The M777 is a 155 mm, 39-calibre towed artillery gun made of titanium and aluminium alloys and weigh just four tonnes, making it transportable under slung by helicopters

    No more important details in news.

    SC to decide if J&K police can book Army men

    A legal tussle broke out between the Centre and Jammu and Kashmir on whether Army personnel stationed in the restive State can be prosecuted for their action taken in “good faith.”

    The Centre countered that Section 7 of The Armed Forces (Jammu and Kashmir) Special Powers Act of 1990 lays down that there would be no legal proceedings against Army personnel for acts done within the course of their duty

    Since matter is subjudice, not very important at this stage


    Govt. Poster for easy recall

     

  • 16 July 2018 | High Relevance vs Low Relevance News , Govt. Posters for easy recall

    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

    Indian shipping companies headed for troubled waters

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/indian-shipping-companies-headed-for-troubled-waters/

    The right of first refusal available to Indian shipping companies is now being taken back. This would lead to shippers taking their business to other countries such as Panama. Note points from the news as a question can be asked in Mains related to such rules and their impact on the economy.

    NCPCR moots model for school fees

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/ncpcr-moots-model-for-school-fees/

    The cause of concern for all parents is rising school fees. It is also a factor in low enrolment ratio in schools. Note the proposal by NCPCR and also details about NCPCR. Can be asked in Prelims.

    [pib] Bansagar Canal Project

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-bansagar-canal-project/

    Read and make notes about Banbhatta. Also about Son river and its geographical features. Can be asked in Prelims.

    [pib] Institute of Cost Accountants of India

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-institute-of-cost-accountants-of-india/

    Read about ICAI. Can be asked in Prelims.

    Low Relevance News

    Peak hour flights may get costlier

    The government is mulling over a proposal to impose a surcharge on airlines for operating flights during peak hours to enhance airport capacity and to avoid flight delays

    Currently, landing fees paid by airlines are determined by the weight of an aircraft and do not vary according to the time of the day

    Nothing important from exam perspective

    Rahul writes to PM for passage of Women’s Reservation Bill

    Congress President Rahul Gandhi wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, asking him to ensure the passage of the Women’s Reservation Bill in the Monsoon Session of Parliament

    Women’s Reservation Bill was passed by the Rajya Sabha on March 9, 2010, and has been stalled in the Lok Sabha since

    Not much important news but do read about the passage of bills and their pendency provisions in LS as well as RS


    Govt. Poster for easy recall

     

  • [Prelims Spotlight] Shala Asmita Yojana (SAY), Saransh

    Here’s a Factoid to brush up your concepts

    Name of the scheme : Shala Asmita Yojana (SAY)

    Objectives : To track the educational journey of school students from Class I to Class XII across the 15 lakhs private and government schools in the country. -ASMITA will be an online database which will carry information of student attendance and enrolment, learning outcomes, mid-day meal service and infrasstructural facilities among others. Students will be tracked through their Aadhaar numbers and incase those not having unique number will be provided.

    Nodal Ministry : Ministry of Human Resource Development

    Name of the scheme : Saransh

    Objectives : Tool which allows the schools to identify areas of improvement in students, teachers and curriculum to facilitate and implement change.

  • [Prelims Spotlight] National Green Tribunal, DNA Based Technology (Use and Regulation) Bill, 2017, East Asian Summit


    Here are  Back2Basics collections from today’s news items

    B2B #1: From news- NGT to hear pleas via videoconference

    National Green Tribunal

    1. The National Green Tribunal has been established in 2010 under the National Green Tribunal Act 2010.
    2. It draws inspiration from India’s constitutional provision of Article 21, which assures the citizens of India the right to a healthy environment.
    3. It aims for effective and expeditious disposal of cases relating to environmental protection and conservation of forests and other natural resources including enforcement of any legal right relating to the environment and giving relief and compensation for damages to persons and property and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto.
    4. It has Original Jurisdiction on matters of “substantial question relating to environment” and & “damage to the environment due to specific activity” (such as pollution).
    5. It follows principles of Natural Justice

    B2B #2: From news- Proposed DNA bank will not store data permanently

    DNA Based Technology (Use and Regulation) Bill, 2017

    1. DNA technology is being increasingly relied upon in investigations of crime, identification of unidentified bodies, or in determining parentage.
    2. It seeks to establish regulatory institutions and standards for DNA testing, and supervise the activities of all laboratories authorised to carry out such tests.
    3. It prohibits the collection of any “bodily substance” from an arrested individual (for the purposes of a DNA test) without his/her consent, except if the individual is arrested for certain specific offences.
    4. The penalty for misuse of data remains a prison term of up to three years and a fine up to Rs 1 lakh, a reference to a minimum prison term of one month has been removed.
    5. The Bill seeks to set up two new institutions — a DNA Profiling Board and a DNA Data Bank.
    6. The Board, with 11 members, is supposed to be the regulatory authority that will grant accreditation to DNA laboratories and lay down guidelines, standards and procedures for their functioning.
    7. A national databank of DNA profiles is proposed to be set up, along with regional databanks in every state.

    Here’s a Factoid to brush up your concepts

    Name : East Asian Summit

    Brief Intro : The East Asia Summit (EAS) is a forum held annually by leaders of, initially, 16 countries in the East Asian, Southeast Asian and South Asian regions. Membership expanded to 18 countries including the United States and Russia at the Sixth EAS in 2011.

    Objective : It is formed to promote the objectives of regional peace, security, and prosperity. It has played an indicative role in the strategic, geopolitical and economic evolution of East Asia.

    Type : Summit/ Conference

    Category : Diplomacy

    Year : 2016

    Importance (wr. Prelims) : High

    Place : Laos

  • 13 July 2018 | High Relevance vs Low Relevance News , Govt. Posters for easy recall

    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] Spirit Of Sendai

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/op-ed-snap-spirit-of-sendai/

    Very good editorial highlighting vulnerabilities of India & Asia and how to mitigate disaster risks. Read and use points in Mains

    [op-ed snap] India needs to focus on water efficiency

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/india-needs-to-focus-on-water-efficiency/

    India is facing an acute water crisis and the editorial highlights the fact and suggests solutions. Useful for Mains

    Failure to educate girls could cost world $30 trillion a year: World Bank report

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/failure-to-educate-girls-could-cost-world-30-trillion-a-year-world-bank-report/

    Girls are still away from primary as well as secondary education. This is impacting their lifestyle as well as growth prospects. Know the reasons and solutions. Can be quoted in Mains.

    India became third largest economy in 2011: World Bank

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/india-became-third-largest-economy-in-2011-world-bank/

    With reports surfacing of India becoming world’s 6th largest economy, various debates on this tag’s utility and importance have started.

    World Bank report claims that India achieved a better feat in 2011 itself.  Read about ICP from the news as it can be asked in Prelims.

    Low Relevance News

    Homosexuality not an illness: Indian Psychiatric Society

    The Indian Psychiatric Society (IPS) has said it is “time to stop looking at homosexuality as a mental illness”, stating that the there is no scientific evidence that sexual orientation can be altered by any treatment

    Nothing important in news from UPSC perspective

    India to ease visa curbs for Bangladesh citizens

    India will sign a pact with Bangladesh to ease visa restrictions for citizens from the neighbouring country. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on “revised travel arrangements” will be signed during Home Minister’s three-day visit to Dhaka

    No important points from exam perspective


    Govt. Poster for easy recall

     

  • [Prelims Spotlight] International Comparison Program (ICP), Ajivika


    Here are  Back2Basics collections from today’s news items

    B2B #1: From news- India became third largest economy in 2011: World Bank

    International Comparison Program (ICP)

    1. ICP is a partnership of various statistical administrations of up to 199 countries guided by the World Bank
    2. The main partners of this program are the World Bank, IMF, UN, ADB, OECD, CISSTAT, Eurostat, AfDB ESCWA, ECLAC, DFID, ABS, IDB, NMoFA who are also all part of the executive board
    3. The Program produces internationally comparable price and volume measures for gross domestic product (GDP)
    4. Its component expenditures are based on purchasing power parities (PPP’s)
    5. The International Comparison Program holds surveys collecting price and expenditure data for the entire range of final goods and services at intervals of some few years (the last two were separated by six years)
    6. The ICP tries to make different countries GDPs comparable by calculating them in PPP both currency converters and spatial price deflators
    7. The ICP has published its PPP results eight times so far – the first time for 1970 (a preliminary study for 1967 was also carried out) and the latest for 2011

    Here’s a Factoid to brush up your concepts

    Key words related to History : Ajivika

    Dynasty/era : Buddha period

    Meaning : A heterodox sect of the time of the Buddha

  • 12 July 2018 | High Relevance vs Low Relevance News , Govt. Posters for easy recall

    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

    Telecom Commission approves net neutrality, new telecom policy

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/telecom-commission-approves-net-neutrality-new-telecom-policy/

    Net neutrality has been a hot topic for a long time and has been finally culminated by the government with a decision in favour of it. Read all details since policies are being asked in Mains.

    Govt. seeks help to end manual scavenging

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/govt-seeks-help-to-end-manual-scavenging/

    Read about MGISC. Can be asked in Prelims.

    World Population Day: What ails the Youth of India

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/world-population-day-what-ails-the-youth-of-india/

    Stress level is rising among youth and there is a rising concern about unemployment too. Note all these points and quote them in Mains answers as well as Essay paper.

    North India’s obsession with the male child remains unchanged

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/north-indias-obsession-with-the-male-child-remains-unchanged/

    Despite the government’s direct and indirect interventions, female foeticide has continued and Indian parents wish for a male child still remains the same.

    Note the points quoted in news.

    Low Relevance News

    SC slams Lieutenant Governor for ‘inaction’ against ‘mountains of garbage’

    The Supreme Court has said “mountains of garbage” in Delhi indicate that the city is facing a grave situation and slammed the Lieutenant Governor (LG) for not taking appropriate action on the issue of solid waste management

    Nothing important in news from exam perspective

    Aadhaar must for health mission cover

    The government has mandated the use of Aadhaar card for administering its massive Ayushman Bharat, or National Health Mission, that assures a ₹5 lakh health cover to 10 crore families

    Possessing an Aadhaar card isn’t mandatory to avail services, a proof of enrolment, or request for enrolment, is mandatory

    No important points from exam perspective.


    Govt. Poster for easy recall

     

  • [Prelims Spotlight] International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-Biotech Applications (ISAAA), Mahatma Gandhi International Sanitation Convention, Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao (BBBP), Aditya-L1

    Here are  Back2Basics collections from today’s news items

    B2B #1: From news- India’s genetically modified crop area fifth largest in world

    International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-Biotech Applications (ISAAA)

    1. ISAAA is a non-profit international organization that shares agricultural biotechnology, focusing on genetic engineering
    2. ISAAA documents approved GM crops worldwide and present them in a database available in the organization’s website
    3. The Global Knowledge Center on Crop Biotechnology is the information network of ISAAA
    4. The organization releases an annual publication on the global status of commercially approved genetically engineered crops
    5. The ISAAA receives funding from both public and private donors

    B2B #2: From news- Govt. seeks help to end manual scavenging

    Mahatma Gandhi International Sanitation Convention

    1. It will be held in Delhi from September 29 to October 2
    2. Ministers from over 70 countries will be invited and taken on a ‘Gandhi Trail’ in Gujarat
    3. The government will use the occasion to “showcase its performance” and “success story” in the Swachh Bharat programme in the past four years, which was launched on October 2, 2014, and have a face-to-face dialogue with the world leaders to share their experiences on sanitation programmes
    4. The Foreign Ministry will coordinate this mega exercise along with the Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation

    B2B #3: From news- North India’s obsession with the male child remains unchanged

    Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao (BBBP)

    1. It is a campaign of the Government of India that aims to generate awareness and improve the efficiency of welfare services intended for girls. The scheme was launched with an initial funding of ₹100 crore.
    2. It mainly targets the clusters in Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Bihar and Delhi.
    3. It aims to address the issue of declining Child Sex Ratio (CSR) through a mass campaign across the country targeted at changing societal mindsets & creating awareness about the criticality of the issue.
    4. The Scheme will have focused intervention & multi-sectoral action in 100 districts with low Child Sex Ratio.
    5. This scheme is a joint initiative of Ministry of Women and Child Development, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and Ministry of Human Resource Development.
    6. These guidelines cover the key elements of the scheme including enforcement of Pre-Conception & Pre Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PC & PNDT) Act, awareness and advocacy campaign and multi-sectoral action in select 100 districts which are low on Child Sex Ration (CSR).

    Here’s a Factoid to brush up your concepts

    Name : Aditya-L1

    Details : It is India’s first solar mission. It will study the sun’s outer most layers, the corona and the chromospheres and collect data about coronal mass ejection, which will also yield information for space weather prediction. Significance of the mission: The data from Aditya mission will be immensely helpful in discriminating between different models for the origin of solar storms and also for constraining how the storms evolve and what path they take through the interplanetary space from the Sun to the Earth. Position of the satellite: In order to get the best science from the sun, continuous viewing of the sun is preferred without any occultation/ eclipses and hence, Aditya- L1 satellite will be placed in the halo orbit around the Lagrangian point 1 (L1) of the sun-earth system. What are Lagrangian points and halo orbit? Lagrangian points are the locations in space where the combined gravitational pull of two large masses roughly balance each other. Any small mass placed at that location will remains at constant distances relative to the large masses. There are five such points in Sun-Earth system and they are denoted as L1, L2, L3, L4 and L5. A halo orbit is a periodic three-dimensional orbit near the L1, L2 or L3.

  • Batch 2: CD Prime Test Series for Prelims 2019

    UPDATE #2

    We have been getting emails every single day to extend the discount till the prelims results are announced and provide more lectures. Hence we are upgrading the program further.

    Apart from the static subject videos, now we will also provide Economic Survey & Budget Analysis Videos covering key concepts and important terms for Prelims 2019.  Economic Survey analysis will be available from 2016 to 2018 covering trends in Indian Economy as well as key issues related to it.

    That makes the total video lectures to be 75 hours.

    We will be extending the discount till 2 weeks after prelims results keeping in mind interest of students who are awaiting prelims results to decide further course of action.

    UPDATE  #1

    Demolish UPSC series
    We are releasing 60+ Hours of Advanced Video Lectures on Static subjects – Polity, History, Geography, Economy

    These cover the most important topics from prelims perspective

    Basic knowledge will be helpful in understanding these though it’s not mandatory
    CD remains committed to its students’ success. We are ready to go the extra mile to turn your dreams into reality.

    The detailed schedule of test series with complete booklist to be followed can be seen here: Click2View

     

    Here is the detailed schedule of lectures:

    Importance of Economic Survey and Budget

    Economic Survey and Budget are the 2 most important documents that you will go through in your exam preparation.

    • Economic Survey discusses all the major government initiatives with the explanation.
    • If we go by the trend, every year around 20 questions in prelims and 7-8 questions in mains are directly related to the Economic Survey and Budget.
    • Questions in prelims paper stress on important phrases, key analysis, and technical terms. Hence they have to be thoroughly studied.
    • Almost mandatory to imbibe actual phrases used in Economic Survey to frame answers for Main Examination. for example, if a Question is asked on Banking sector problems in the mains exam, you can always quote the 4R recommendations of the 2016th economic survey.
    • Adding the important and relevant facts and figures significantly enhance your marks in General Studies Paper-III.
    • Deep knowledge of the current policies and programs of the government also help an aspirant to write meaningful Essays in UPSC Civil Services Main Examination. For example, Wiping every tear from every eye “Twin balance sheet problem”, “translating potential into actuality” “ Chakravuyh challenge” etc.
    • According to the new trend economy and the environment is going hand in hand. So questions can come from that perspective also.
    • Many statistics and schemes are now being asked in Prelims

    Watch the video to know how we ensure you get 120+ score in Prelims

    The only TS that is supervised by top rankers and provides personalized attention to students. Check out the 7 points that make it the best in the market.

    Follow the video below to understand what makes the TS unique. Our planning and execution remains perfect.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QWUJ-nQWqkE

     

    It goes without saying that Civilsdaily’s Flagship Test Series Program has created a name for itself. It is preferred among students in their advanced stages of preparation.
    Here is what ABHILASH BARANWAL, AIR 44, CSE-2017 had to say about CD

    Here is what  JITENDRA KUMAR SHARMA, AIR 392, CSE-2017 had to say –

    This year, we have upgraded the program to make it the best offering in the market.

    Introducing CD Prime TS 2019

    1. One comprehensive program – Our TS is a full-fledged course in itself! With a mix and match of various kinds of questions and detailed explanation wherever need. It is a very effective way of both, starting a subject and revising one.

    2. Telegram Groups moderated by to Toppers.  Mentorship taken to a whole new level. You will be helped at every step of the way.

    3. Introducing questions-types – Judging the quality of any TS is very subjective. While some will say its great, others will say its quality has decreased over time. That is why we have introduced the concept of question-types. They ensure consistency in quality. How? We have explained that in the end.

    4. Dedicated monthly CA Tests – Exclusive focus on Current Affairs(CA) by having dedicated monthly CA tests. Besides, exhaustively preparing for CA questions, it has helped students precisely figure out what their weaknesses are.  

    5. Tikdams and mastering the art of intelligent guesses – Tikdam Technique is an innovation by Dr. V(AIR 20) and has helped students gain additional marks. Our TS is the only TS that puts a conscious effort to build student’s risk-taking appetite.

    6. Subject and sub-subject Level Tagging – These tags will help you understand the importance of themes and revise other questions from them.

    7. Two-tier quality check  – Our questions pass through a rigorous true stage assessment criteria. The first being done by CD’s core content team with the final approval from a coterie of rankers.


    What are questions types 

    Wherever applicable, we will try to stick to the format decided below. It standardizes questions to a decent extent.

    A. Consolidation Questions
    These questions consolidate information from different topics to help you see concepts holistically and also aid retention.
    Eg. Consider this question. You would not have studied all the ‘Majorities’ together but under separate topics. This question will help you understand the concept in entirety.

    Consider the following questions on the types of Majority
    1. Special Majority of not less than 2/3 of the Members present and voting is required in the passage of a resolution under Art. 249 and Art. 312ONLY.
    2. Impeachment of the President requires Not less than 2/3 of the Members present and voting along with Majority of the Total Strength of the House.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
    a)1
    b)2
    c)Both
    d)None

    Explanation – A very detailed account of the types of Majority is given here https://www.civilsdaily.com/types-of-majorities/
    Statement 1 is correct despite having ‘ONLY’ in it.

    B. Comparative Questions
    Comparative questions help you understand the relative differences between related topics. Consider the question below. Instead of asking a question on HC or SC separately, we have clubbed it together.

    Consider the following statements with respect to the appointment of judges of High Court & Supreme Court
    1. The minimum qualifications prescribed in the Constitution is same for judges of HC & SC.
    2. While SC judges are appointed by the President, HC judges are appointed by the SC.
    Which of the following is/are incorrect?
    a) 1 only
    b) 2 only
    c) Both 1 and 2
    d) None

    Explanation – 3 qualifications are common to both judges of HC and SC
    1. Citizen of India
    2. Judge of HC for 5 years
    3. Advocate in HC for 10 years
    In case of judges of SC, there is an additional qualification – If he/she is a distinguished Jurist in the opinion of the President. Judges of HC are also appointed by the President. The controversy around appointments has been in news very frequently. Please read – https://www.civilsdaily.com/story/judicial-appointments-conundrum-post-njac-verdict/

    C. Interactive Questions
    These questions will ask you to go through a concept/related concepts and reply back with comments. This will help you re-visit the entire concept rather than simply answer one specific aspect of the topic.

    Eg., consider the following question –
    The conversion of Ammonia (NH3) to nitrite (NO2-) and then to nitrates (NO3-) is called

    a) Nitrification
    b) Ammonification
    c) Assimilation
    d) Denitrification
    Answer A

    Explanation
    Nitrification
    In this process, the ammonia is converted into nitrate by the presence of bacteria in the soil. Ammonia is oxidized to form nitrites by bacteria such as Nitrosomonas species. Nitrates are converted into nitrates by Nitrobacter. This conversion is very important as ammonia gas is toxic for plants.
    Make a note of all the processes involved in the Nitrogen Cycle – nitrogen fixation, assimilation, ammonification, nitrification, and denitrification process.
    Leave their definitions/organisms involved in the comments.

    D. Star-marked/special questions
    These are advanced questions that are not from standard sources but relevant for the exam. These questions will help you build additional knowledge without going through specialized books.
    Eg. Questions on books by freedom-fighters, News not covered by the Hindu, IE, PIB but of very high importance in world affairs.

    Besides these, questions indirectly related to CA will also be asked. 

    Do I need to join a TS for prelims at all?

    Despite UPSC being unpredictable, prelims TS is the only program that can help you assess how your preparation is. Besides few questions that are directly asked from TS, it helps in developing a good understanding of how to prepare/what to prepare/what to prioritize and so on.

    In today’s hyper-competitive exam scenario, it’s almost impossible to clear the exam without a good TS in hand.

    Join Batch 2 of Test series here: Click2Join