[WpProQuiz 19]

INDIAN HISTORY

1. UP GOVERNMENT RENAMES KAKORI KAND TO KAKORI TRAIN ACTION

THE CONTEXT: Uttar Pradesh government has renamed the ‘Kakori Kand’ to ‘Kakori Train action’ as the word ‘Kand’ denotes a sense of insult to this incident under India’s Independence struggle.

ANALYSIS :

• As India is celebrating ‘Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav’ to commemorate 75 years of its Independence, the Uttar Pradesh government celebrated the anniversary of the ‘Kakori Train action’ under the program ‘Chauri Chaura Mahotsav’ which is going to complete 100 years in 2022.
• The Kakori Train Action or Kakori Conspiracy was a train robbery that took place at Kakori, a village near Lucknow, on 9 August 1925 during the Indian Independence Movement against the British colonial rule.
• The robbery was organized by Hindustan Republican Association and more than 40 persons were arrested in this incident and they were finally sentenced to death by the British government and also severe punishments were given to those people who helped this incident.

Source: NewsOnAIR

INDIAN POLITY, GOVERNANCE AND SOCIAL JUSTICE

2. UJJWALA 2.0 LAUNCHED

THE CONTEXT: Prime Minister launched the second phase of the Ujjwala gas connection scheme for the poor.

ABOUT UJJWALA 2.0

• The government will distribute about 1 crore gas connections in this financial year to the poor.
• Along with a deposit-free LPG connection, it will provide the first refill and hotplate (stove) free of cost to the beneficiaries.
• The enrollment procedure will require minimal paperwork.
• In Ujjwala 2.0, migrants will not be required to submit ration cards or address proof. A self-declaration for both ‘family declaration’ and as a ‘proof of address will suffice.

BACKGROUND

• During Ujjwala 1.0 launched in 2016, a target was set to provide LPG connections to 5 crore women members of BPL households.
• Subsequently, the scheme was expanded in April 2018 to include women beneficiaries from seven more categories (SC/ST, PMAY, AAY, Most backward classes, tea garden, forest dwellers, Islands).
• Also, the target was revised to 8 Crore LPG connections. This target was achieved in August 2019, seven months ahead of the target date.

SOURCE: TH

3. PARTIES GET 48 HOURS TO PUBLISH CANDIDATES’ CRIMINAL RECORDS

THE CONTEXT: The Supreme Court had directed political parties to publish the criminal history if any, of their election candidates on the homepage of their party websites under the caption ‘candidates with criminal antecedents’ within 48 hours of their selection.

ANALYSIS:

• The court said it did not take political parties much time to flout its February 2020 judgment, which had directed them to prominently publish the criminal antecedents of their candidates in newspapers and on social media accounts, including Twitter and Facebook.
• The court imposed ₹1 lakh each on the BJP, Congress, JD(U), RJD, Lok Janshakti Party, and the Communist Party of India for subverting the February 2020 judgment.
• It slapped 5 lakh Rupees each on the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and the Nationalist Congress Party for completely ignoring the February judgment.
• In a series of directions to make the right of information of a voter “more effective and meaningful”, the court further ordered the Election Commission of India to launch a dedicated mobile app for voters to get details of the criminal history of the candidates at the touch of a button.
• The Commission should also form a separate cell to monitor political parties on their compliance with the court’s judgment.

SOURCE: TH

4. CONSTITUTION 127TH AMENDMENT BILL, 2021

THE CONTEXT: The Lok Sabha passed the 127th Constitution Amendment Bill, 2021, with unanimous support from the House.

ABOUT THE 127TH CAB 2011

• The Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Seventh Amendment) Bill, 2021 was introduced in Lok Sabha by the Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment.
• The Bill amends the Constitution to allow states and union territories to prepare their own list of socially and educationally backward classes.
• The Constitution (One Hundred and Second Amendment) Act, 2018 gave constitutional status to the NCBC and empowered the President to notify the list of socially and educationally backward classes for any state or union territory for all purposes.
• The 2021 Bill amends this to provide that the President may notify the list of socially and educationally backward classes only for purposes of the central government.  This central list will be prepared and maintained by the central government.  Further, the Bill enables states and union territories to prepare their own list of socially and educationally backward classes.   This list must be made by law, and may differ from the central list.
• Article 338B of the Constitution mandates the central and state governments to consult the NCBC on all major policy matters affecting the socially and educationally backward classes.  The Bill exempts states and union territories from this requirement for matters related to the preparation of their list of socially and educationally backward classes.

BACKGROUND:

• In May 2021, Supreme Court in its order on Maratha reservation upheld the 102nd Constitutional Amendment Act that inserted Articles 338B and 342 A (with two clauses) after Article 342, which said the President of India, in consultation with the Governors, would specify socially and educationally backward classes, taking away the powers of State governments to do so.

SOURCE: TH & PRS

5. GLOBAL YOUTH DEVELOPMENT INDEX

THE CONTEXT: India is ranked 122nd on a new Global Youth Development Index measuring the condition of young people across 181 countries, released by the Commonwealth Secretariat in London.

ANALYSIS:

• The index ranks countries between 0.00 (lowest) and 1.00 (highest) according to the developments in youth education, employment, health, equality and inclusion, peace and security, and political and civic participation. It looks at 27 indicators including literacy and voting to showcase the state of the world’s 1.8 billion people between the age of 15 and 29.
• The triennial rankings of youth development found India among the top five risers on the index between 2010 and 2018, alongside Afghanistan and Russia, advancing their score on average by 15.74 percent across areas such as education and employment.
• Singapore ranked topmost followed by Slovenia, Norway, Malta, and Denmark. Chad, the Central African Republic, South Sudan, Afghanistan, and Niger came last respectively.
• The 2020 Global Youth Development Index reveals that the conditions of young people have improved around the world by 3.1 percent between 2010 and 2018.
• Overall, the index shows advances in youth’s participation in peace processes and their education, employment, inclusion, and health care since 2010.

SOURCE: THE PRINT

ENVIRONMENT, GEOGRAPHY AND AGRICULTURE

6. A THIRD OF INDIA’S COASTLINE UNDER EROSION

THE CONTEXT: As per information provided in parliament, about 32 percent of the Indian coastline is under varying degrees of erosion (low, moderate or high), 27 percent is of accreting nature and the remaining 41 percent is in a stable state.

ANALYSIS:

• The National Centre for Coastal Research has carried out a national shoreline change assessment mapping for the Indian coast, using 28 years of satellite data from 1990-2018.
• The study was done along with nine coastal states and two Union territories (UT) to provide information for coastal management strategy.
• Around 41 percent of the coastline of Kerala is experiencing erosion, 31 per cent is stable and 21 per cent is accreting, as per the National Centre of Coastal Research studies.

FEW OTHER FACTS FOR PRELIMS

• A total of 720 persons have lost their lives due to cyclones from 2016-17 to 2021-22.
• As per the report on ‘Women and Men in India, 2020’, the share of workforce of men and women in agriculture has declined in both the rural and urban areas during the period from 1987-88 to 2019-20.
• A central sector scheme on ‘Promotion of Agricultural Mechanisation for In-Situ Management of Crop Residue in the states of Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and NCT of Delhi’ is being implemented in the states since 2018-19. Under this scheme, financial assistance of 50 per cent the cost of machinery is provided to the farmers for the purchase of crop residue management machinery. Financial assistance of 80 per cent of the project cost is also provided to the cooperative societies of farmers, farmers producers organisations, registered farmers societies and panchayats for establishment of custom hiring centres (CHC) of crop residue management machinery.
• From 2018-19 to 2020-21, more than 30,900 CHCs have been established and more than 158,000 crop residue management machines have been supplied to them and individual farmers of these four states.

SOURCE: DTE

7. DEVELOPMENT OF NEW CROPS

THE CONTEXT: The National Agricultural Research System (NARS) is involved in development of new high yielding and biotic/abiotic stress tolerant crop varieties of field and horticultural crops.

Analysis:

• During last 3 years (2018-2020) and current year, 1017 varieties of 69 field crops and 206 varieties of 58 horticultural crops have been developed.
• ICAR has a strong network of All India Coordinated Research Projects (AICRPs)/ All India Network Projects (AINPs), coordinated by different ICAR institutes, which are operational in the various Central and State Agricultural Universities and ICAR institutes for development of new crop varieties of field and horticultural crops.
• Presently, 44 AICRPs/AINPs of field and horticultural crops are operational through 50 SAUs/CAUs/DUs and 55 ICAR institutes across the country at 1017 locations.

SOURCE: PIB

8. ABOUT 96,000 SALMON DIE AFTER CHLORINE LEAK IN ARCTIC NORWAY

THE CONTEXT: About 96,000 farmed salmon are believed to have died when a leak in a nearby tank sent 15,000 liters (4,000 gallons) of chlorine into a fjord in Arctic Norway.

Analysis:

• The leak happened at one of its fish slaughterhouses in the town of Alta and the fish were in a waiting cage nearby at the time.
• The chlorine is used to disinfect the water after the slaughtering.
• Alta sits 175 kilometers (109 miles) northeast of Tromsoe, the largest city in Arctic Norway.

SOURCE: IE

9. KRISHI VIGYAN KENDRA (KVK)

THE CONTEXT: The Government has made a provision for the opening of Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) in each of the rural districts across the country. A total of 725 KVKs have been established across the country till date.

ABOUT KVKS

• KVKs are mandated for frontline extension which acts as a bridge between research organizations and the main extension system operated by different development departments of the State Governments.
• Considering the role and resources of a KVK, it caters to the requirement of the selected farmers of the district and provides capacity development support to State Development Departments. The coverage of entire district is the responsibility of development departments of State Governments.
• Sanctioned staff strength of each KVK is 16 including one Senior Scientist-cum-Head, six Subject Matter Specialists, one Farm Manager, two Programme Assistants, two Administrative Staff, one Tractor Driver, one Jeep Driver and 2 Skilled Support Staff. At present, 68.44% posts in KVKs are filled.
• As many as 657 KVKs have administrative building and 521 KVKs have Farmers’ hostel. The Government aims to provide required infrastructure in the remaining KVKs expeditiously.
• As per requirement, large number of KVKs have been strengthened with other infrastructure facilities like, pulses seed hubs, soil testing kits, micro-irrigation systems, Integrated Farming Systems units, farm machineries and equipment, District Agro-Met Units, etc. during last five years.

SOURCE: PIB

10. DEVELOPMENT OF AGRICULTURAL COOPERATIVE SECTOR

THE CONTEXT: Since inception and till 31.03.2021, National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC) has disbursed Rs.1.77 lakh crore to cooperatives for their development. It includes assistance to agricultural and horticulture cooperative societies.

ABOUT NCDC

• National Cooperative Development Corporation Act, 1962 Provides for planning and promoting programmes for the production, processing, marketing, storage, export and import of agricultural produce, foodstuffs, industrial goods, livestock, certain other commodities and services on co-operative principles and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto.
• The “Central Sector Integrated Scheme on Agricultural Cooperation (CSISAC)” is a Central Sector Scheme for assistance to NCDC programmes for development of Cooperatives. Under the scheme, loan is extended by NCDC from its own resources and subsidy is provided by the Government of India.
• NCDC plans and promotes programmes on co-operative principles. It assists cooperatives only.
• NCDC financial assistance schemes encourage and attract people to form new cooperatives for carrying out business activities.
• Finance schemes of NCDC cover activities such as agro-processing, horti-processing, credit, inputs, computerization, storage, cold chain, textile, handloom, sugar, ethanol, dairy, fisheries, livestock, piggery, poultry, renewable energy, rural housing, scheduled caste & scheduled tribes, women cooperatives, animal care/health, hospitality & transport, electricity & power, hospitals, healthcare and education etc.
• Under its SAHAKAR-22 initiatives, NCDC has in the last two years, has reached out to over 10000 primary level cooperative societies.
• To encourage youth towards cooperatives, NCDC has launched its YUVA SAHAKAR Cooperative Enterprise Support and Innovation Scheme which aims at enabling Start-Ups in cooperative sector with different types of business activities.
• Under its SAHAKAR MITRA scheme, NCDC offers internship opportunities to students get experience in areas of functioning of NCDC and related aspects of cooperatives.
• Under its AYUSHMAN SAHAKAR scheme, NCDC offers finance to cooperatives set up healthcare infrastructure and provide services.
• Government of India schemes such as the Formation and Promotion of 10,000 Farmers Producer Organizations (FPO) provide for registration and support of new cooperatives as FPOs. NCDC is one of the implementing agencies promoting such FPOs.
• The Formation and Promotion of Fish Farmers Producer Organizations (FFPO) under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) provides for registration and support of new cooperatives as FFPOs, NCDC being an implementing agency for promoting such FFPOs.

SOURCE: PIB

11. DEEP OCEAN MISSION

THE CONTEXT: Deep Ocean Mission to be implemented by Ministry of Earth Sciences at a total budget of Rs. 4077 Cr for 5 years during the period 2021-2026.

ANALYSIS:

• Even private institutions will be included for the development of technologies for this mission to explore the possibilities of mining, bio-diversity, energy, fresh water etc. in Deep Ocean and to support the ‘blue economy’.
• Ministry of Earth Sciences through contractual agreements with the International Seabed Authority (ISA), is carrying out exploration activities for Poly-metallic Nodules (PMN) in the Central Indian Ocean Basin and for Poly-metallic Sulphides (PMS) in parts of Central and South-West Indian ridges.
• Preliminary estimates indicate 380 Million Metric Tonnes (MMT) of Polymetallic Nodules comprising Copper, Nickel, Cobalt and Manganese are available within an allocated area of 75000 sq. km for exploration of PMN in Central Indian Ocean Basin.
• The estimated value of these metals is about 110 billion US$. The polymetallic sulphides are expected to contain rare earth minerals including gold and silver.

ABOUT THE DEEP OCEAN MISSION

• It consists of the six major components:

1. 1. Development of Technologies for Deep Sea Mining, and Manned Submersible
   2. Development of Ocean Climate Change Advisory Services
   3. Technological innovations for exploration and conservation of deep-sea biodiversity
   4. Deep Ocean Survey and Exploration
   5. Energy and freshwater from the Ocean
   6. Advanced Marine Station for Ocean Biology.

SOURCE:  PIB

August 11, 2021 Prelim Practice Questions

Q 1. Consider the following statements about the Ujjwala scheme:

1. It was launched in 2015 with an aim to provide deposit-free LPG connections to BPL households.

2. The LPG connection under the scheme is given only in the name of the adult woman of the household.

3. Second phase of the scheme provides the first refill of the cylinder free of cost.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

a) 1 only

b) 1 and 2 only

c) 2 and 3 only

d) 1, 2 and 3

Q2. The Kakori Train Action was organized by?

a) Hindustan Republican Association

b) Hindustan Socialist Republican Association Army

c) Swadesh Bandhab Samiti

d) Bharat Naujawan Sabha

Answer for August 10, 2021 Prelims Practice Questions

ANSWER: C)

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is incorrect: was established in 1988 by WMO and UNEP.
• Statement 2 is correct: Its headquarter is hosted at WMO headquarters in Geneva.
• Statement 3 is incorrect: It is the scientific body that reviews data submitted by countries and does not conduct any research nor does it monitor climate-related data or parameters

1. Gender violence: A tragedy amid revelry- With the Govt’s lackadaisical approach, where it is not ready to engage in participative discussion on important issues, where does the victim go? READ MORE

1. Truth and Hope in a Post Olympics Void READ MORE
2. Gender violence: A tragedy amid revelry- With the Govt’s lackadaisical approach, where it is not ready to engage in participative discussion on important issues, where does the victim go? READ MORE

1. The century’s most pressing crisis is here READ MORE
2. India needs a separate ministry to deal with the climate crisis READ MORE
3. Danger ahead: Unless coal and fossil fuels are phased out, climate change will destroy human life READ MORE

1. Undermining justice: On vacancies in courts, tribunals- The Government must explain the unusual delay in filling up vacancies in courts, tribunals READ MORE
2. Why the collegium system, while the best for judicial appointments, needs course corrections READ MORE
3. The SC takes on abuse of power READ MORE
4. Pegasus: India needs urgent surveillance reform READ MORE
5. What You Need to Know About Tribunal Reforms Bill, 2021 READ MORE

(Newspapers, PIB, and other important sources)

Prelims and Mains:

1. Development of new crops READ MORE
2. The government has made a provision for the opening of Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) in each of the rural districts across the country READ MORE
3. India ranks 122nd on the new Global Youth Development Index among 181 countries READ MORE
4. Lok Sabha passes key bill to restore states’ power to make their own OBC lists READ MORE
5. UP government renames Kakori kand to Kakori train action READ MORE

Main exam:  

GS Paper- 2

POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

1. Undermining justice: On vacancies in courts, tribunals- The Government must explain the unusual delay in filling up vacancies in courts, tribunals READ MORE
2. Why the collegium system, while the best for judicial appointments, needs course corrections READ MORE
3. The SC takes on abuse of power READ MORE
4. Pegasus: India needs urgent surveillance reform READ MORE
5. What You Need to Know About Tribunal Reforms Bill, 2021 READ MORE

SOCIAL JUSTICE AND SOCIAL ISSUES

1. Gender violence: A tragedy amid revelry- With the Govt’s lackadaisical approach, where it is not ready to engage in participative discussion on important issues, where does the victim go? READ MORE

INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

1. Choppy waters: On global maritime security- India must push for ratification of UNCLOS by all major maritime powers, including the U.S. READ MORE
2. Maritime security: India should look beyond Quad to safeguard its interests READ MORE

GS Paper- 3

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1. Unpacking the resiliency of global trade, yet again: Going by past experiences and historic ruptures, there is hope for global trade recovery in the post-COVID-19 world READ MORE
2. Capacity constraint: Vacancies in tribunals will affect business environment READ MORE
3. Online gaming — making a play at skilling READ MORE

ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

1. The century’s most pressing crisis is here READ MORE
2. India needs a separate ministry to deal with the climate crisis READ MORE
3. Danger ahead: Unless coal and fossil fuels are phased out, climate change will destroy human life READ MORE

GS Paper- 4

ETHICS EXAMPLES AND CASE STUDY

1. Truth and Hope in a Post Olympics Void READ MORE

Questions for the MAIN exam

1. ‘Historic ruptures often generate and accelerate new global links that lay foundations for institutional changes, seeking enduring cooperation among nations.’ Evaluate the statement with reference to economic growth in the post-covid world.
2. Regional maritime tensions should not become hurdles in global maritime security cooperation. Discuss.
3. ‘To make India self-reliant and realize the Digital India dream, there’s need for early and widespread adoption of emerging technologies in addition to skilled manpower across sectors’. Comment.

QUOTATIONS AND CAPTIONS

• People willing to trade their freedom for temporary security deserve neither and will lose both.
• Through its UNSC presidency and beyond, New Delhi must faithfully advocate for ratification of UNCLOS by all major maritime powers, including the U.S.
• Going by past experiences, historic ruptures often generate and accelerate new global links that lay foundations for institutional changes, seeking enduring cooperation among nations.
• Rapid growth in e-commerce and the virtual world will demand entirely new skills from the workforce. Therefore, economic policies are likely to focus on stronger safety nets for workers; income protection, skill training, health care and educational support for families.
• The climate crisis requires both looking across boundaries (international and national) and building a strategic focus on future development pathways. This is the 21st century’s most pressing crisis.
• To make India self-reliant and realise the Digital India dream, there’s need for early and widespread adoption of emerging technologies in addition to skilled manpower across sectors.
• To minimise the impact of the climate crisis, India needs to focus on adaptation and mitigation efforts simultaneously.
• India must create a separate ministry of climate crisis and chart out a better future for its people and show the world that it is possible to balance between planet, people and profit and work towards a green growth economy.
• The PEW research findings show that we are tolerant and inclusive as a nation as long as we live in our own silos and until we truly do not intermingle across caste and religious barriers we will continue to struggle for an equitable society.

50-WORD TALK

• Afghan government’s plea for IAF air support to counter the Taliban shows how desperate Kabul is. But this isn’t India’s war to fight. It’s also an impossibility, geographically and geostrategically. The US and allies must prevent Afghanistan from sliding into brutal medievalism. New Delhi can do no more than nudge them.
• The Supreme Court’s renewed push to get tougher against politicians/legislators with criminal records is a reminder that India’s effort to reform politics and elections is still a work in progress. The top court must keep at it because politicians, on their own, have little incentive to clean up their act.

Things to Remember:

• For prelims-related news try to understand the context of the news and relate with its concepts so that it will be easier for you to answer (or eliminate) from given options.
• Whenever any international place will be in news, you should do a mapping work (marking those areas in maps and also exploring other geographical locations nearby including mountains, rivers etc. same applies for the national places.)
• For economy related news (banking, agriculture etc.) you should focus on terms and how these are related with various economic aspects, for example, if inflation has been mentioned, try to relate with prevailing price rises, shortage of essential supplies, banking rates etc.
• For main exam-related topics, you should focus on the various dimensions of the given topic, the most important topics which occur frequently and are important from the mains point of view will be covered in ED.
• Try to use the given content in your answer. Regular use of this content will bring more enrichment in your writing.

[WpProQuiz 18]

1. Absence of real education READ MORE

1. Can finite objects give infinite happiness? READ MORE
2. Protection from police: CJI’s remarks should expedite steps to stop custodial torture READ MORE

1. IPCC: Overwhelming Evidence of ‘Irreversible’ Human Footprint on Climate READ MORE
2. Code red: IPCC’s warning on climate points to a small window of opportunity that still exists READ MORE
3. One way India could help both landowners and wildlife is by encouraging agroforestry READ MORE

1. Pegasus scandal points to the making of a surveillance state in India. Our freedoms are at stake READ MORE
2. When the political class unites READ MORE
3. Protection from police: CJI’s remarks should expedite steps to stop custodial torture READ MORE

(Newspapers, PIB, and other important sources)

Prelim and Main:

1. PM releases 9th installment of PM-KISAN READ MORE
2. PM Modi chairs UNSC debate, proposes 5 principles to build global maritime security road map READ MORE
3. India on track to achieve WHO-recommended doctor-population ratio NITI Aayog member Vinod Paul READ MORE
4. Explained: All you need to know about the Tribunals Reforms Bill, 2021 passed in Rajya Sabha on August 9 READ MORE
5. 11,000 crore rupees for new edible oil mission, says PM Modi READ MORE

Main exam:  

GS Paper- 2

POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

1. Pegasus scandal points to the making of a surveillance state in India. Our freedoms are at stake READ MORE
2. When the political class unites READ MORE
3. Protection from police: CJI’s remarks should expedite steps to stop custodial torture READ MORE

SOCIAL JUSTICE AND SOCIAL ISSUES

1. Absence of real education READ MORE

INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

1. The road ahead from Gogra: While disengagement happens, a long-lasting solution along the LAC remains a challenge READ MORE
2. The importance of the Gulf in shaping the geopolitics of Afghanistan READ MORE

GS Paper- 3

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1. A circular economy for plastic: The India Plastics Pact will benefit society, the economy and the environment READ MORE
2. Supporting growth outweighs inflation unease READ MORE
3. Riddle of the global minimum corporate tax rate READ MORE

ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

1. IPCC: Overwhelming Evidence of ‘Irreversible’ Human Footprint on Climate READ MORE
2. Code red: IPCC’s warning on climate points to a small window of opportunity that still exists READ MORE
3. One way India could help both landowners and wildlife is by encouraging agroforestry READ MORE

GS Paper- 4

ETHICS EXAMPLES AND CASE STUDY

1. Can finite objects give infinite happiness? READ MORE

Questions for the MAIN exam

1. ‘For smaller economies, the 15 percent minimum corporate tax rate might look attractive, but it will be a great burden on the smaller companies operating inside the smaller economies’. Comment.
2. ‘As India has had a strained relationship with the Taliban; it should not initiate talk with Taliban’. Do you agree with the view? Analyze your view.

QUOTATIONS AND CAPTIONS

• Authority does not come from the loudest voice, but the wisest.
• India is one of the most agriculturally productive landscapes in the world.
• While the recent moves towards restoring the peace are certainly welcome, finding a more long-lasting solution to ensure peace along the LAC will present a taller challenge.
• If emissions continue to rise, oceans and land, two important sinks and the latter a key part of India’s climate action plan, would be greatly weakened in their ability to absorb atmospheric carbon dioxide.
• A decade later, it is quite clear, Qatar’s “peace project” in Afghanistan was about legitimising the Taliban at expense of the current political order in Afghanistan.
• Saudi Arabia and the UAE, whose interests are threatened by the Taliban’s religious extremism, are not going to sit back forever. Integration of the Gulf into India’s regional security calculus is now likely to be a permanent feature.
• The constitutional amendment on OBC reservation was needed. But it also shows the limits of political imagination.
• A robust and advanced military preparedness along the entire perimeter of our nation is the only iron-clad permanent security guarantee.
• Without the freedom to think freely, there are no rights that can be exercised by anyone. If we leave this discussion only to politicians and don’t hold them accountable this time, we are doomed to live through the death of freedom.

ESSAY TOPIC

• Intelligence is not a measurable product; it is the ability to live meaningfully.

 50-WORD TALK

• The latest IPCC report only confirms our worst fears about global warming and climate change, including for us in India. Drastic cuts in emissions now won’t reverse the damage already caused but will prevent the future from being worse. Rich countries can’t delay financing poor ones as they’re evidently equally vulnerable.
• The incendiary anti-Muslim slogans in the heart of India’s capital are an appalling call to violence. That they chanted this under the banner of Bharat Bachao Andolan is doubly troubling. Swift police action and public outrage against the organisers of this event and chanters should be unequivocal, substantive and deterrent.

Things to Remember:

• For prelims-related news try to understand the context of the news and relate with its concepts so that it will be easier for you to answer (or eliminate) from given options.
• Whenever any international place will be in news, you should do mapping work (marking those areas in maps and also exploring other geographical locations nearby including mountains, rivers, etc. same applies to the national places.)
• For economy-related news (banking, agriculture, etc.) you should focus on terms and how these are related to various economic aspects, for example, if inflation has been mentioned, try to relate with prevailing price rises, shortage of essential supplies, banking rates, etc.
• For main exam-related topics, you should focus on the various dimensions of the given topic, the most important topics which occur frequently and are important from the mains point of view will be covered in ED.
• Try to use the given content in your answer. Regular use of this content will bring more enrichment to your writing.

ART AND CULTURE

1. INDIAN INSTITUTE OF HERITAGE

THE CONTEXT: Government has decided to set up the ‘Indian Institute of Heritage’ at Noida.

ANALYSIS :

• Indian Institute of Heritage will be a world-class university-IIH would offer Masters and Ph.D. courses in History of Arts, Conservation, Musicology, Archival Studies, and Archaeology.
• The Institute is being set up as Deemed to be University by integrating Institute of Archaeology (Pt. Deendayal Upadhyaya Institute of Archaeology), School of Archival Studies under National Archives of India, New Delhi, the National Research Laboratory for Conservation of Cultural Property (NRLC), Lucknow, National Museum Institute of History of Art, Conservation and Museology (NMICHM) and Academic Wing of Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), New Delhi. These shall become various schools of Institute.
• Indian Institute of Heritage will be a world-class university that would focus on the conservation and research in India’s rich tangible heritage while offering research, development, and dissemination of knowledge, excellence in the education of its students, and activities associated with a heritage that contributes to the cultural, scientific and economic life of India.
• This would be a standalone Institution of its type in the country.

SOURCE: PIB

INDIAN POLITY, GOVERNANCE, AND SOCIAL JUSTICE

2. NATIONAL EDIBLE OIL MISSION-OIL PALM (NMEO-OP)

THE CONTEXT: Prime Minister announced a National Edible Oil Mission-Oil Palm (NMEO-OP) to make India self-sufficient in cooking oils, including palm oil.

Analysis:

• Rs 11,000 crore will be invested in the edible oil ecosystem.
• The country is dependent on huge imports of edible oils. Of the total oil imports, palm oil constitutes about 55 percent.
• It will benefit farmers, consumers as well as food processing industry thereby creating employment too.
• The government will ensure that farmers get all facilities, from quality seeds to technology to promote farming to produce palm oil and other oil seeds.
• The Prime Minister said north-eastern states and Andaman and the Nicobar Islands could be promoted for palm farming.
• The NMEO-OP’s predecessor was the National Mission on Oil Seeds and Oil Palm, which was launched in2014, and later in 2018-19, it was merged with the National Food Security Mission.

SOURCE: TH

3. TRIBUNALS REFORMS BILL, 2021

THE CONTEXT: Parliament passed the Tribunals Reforms Bill, 2021. The Bill seeks to abolish many appellate tribunals set up under various Acts. The Bill replaces a similar Ordinance promulgated in April 2021.

THE KEY FEATURES OF THE TRIBUNALS REFORMS BILL, 2021

• ABOLITION OF APPELLATE TRIBUNALS:
  • The Bill seeks to dissolve certain existing appellate bodies and transfer their functions to other existing judicial bodies, such as adjudication of appeals.
  • The Tribunals that the Bill seeks to abolish include Film Certification Appellate Tribunal, Airports Appellate Tribunal, Authority for Advance Rulings, Intellectual Property Appellate Board, and Plant Varieties Protection Appellate Tribunal. The functions of these tribunals will be transferred to the existing judicial bodies.
  • The tribunals under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 and the Control of National Highways (Land and Traffic) Act, 2002, would also be wound up, once this Bill becomes a law.
  • All cases pending before such tribunals or authorities will be transferred to the Commercial Court or High Court.
• SEARCH-CUM-SELECTION COMMITTEES:
  • The Bill proposes to include provisions related to the composition of selection committees and term of office in the Act itself. As per Section 3 (7) of the Bill, the Chairperson and the Members of the various tribunals are to be appointed on the recommendations of the Search-cum-Selection Committee.
  • The Bill amends the Finance Act, 2017 to specify that the members of the committee will be (i)Chief Justice of India, or a Supreme Court Judge nominated by him, as the Chairperson, (ii)two secretaries nominated by the central government, (iii) the sitting or outgoing Chairperson, or a retired Supreme Court Judge, or a retired Chief Justice of a High Court, and (iv) the secretary of the Ministry under which the Tribunal is constituted.
  • The state tribunals will have separate search-cum-selection committees. These Committees will consist of (i) the Chief Justice of the High Court of the concerned state, as the Chairman (ii) the Chief Secretary of the state government and the Chairman of the Public Service Commission of the concerned state, (iii) the sitting or outgoing Chairperson, or a retired High Court Judge, and (iv) the Secretary or Principal Secretary of the state’s general administrative department.
  • The Centre has to decide on the recommendations of selection committees preferably within three months from the date of the recommendation.
  • TENURE: The Bill provides for a four-year term of office (subject to the upper age limit of 70 years for the Chairperson, and 67 years for members).  Further, it specifies a minimum age requirement of 50 years for the appointment of a chairperson or a member.

SOURCE: MONEY CONTROL

4. INDIA ON TRACK TO ACHIEVE WHO-RECOMMENDED DOCTOR-POPULATION RATIO

THE CONTEXT: According to NITI Aayog member Vinod Paul India is well on the path to achieving the World Health Organisation-recommended ratio of one doctor per thousand populations by 2024 and is increasing the number of hospital beds from 11 lakh to 22 lakh.

Analysis:

• In the last 75 years, India has made significant progress in the health sector. At the time of independence, the average life was just 28 years and it has now reached close to 70 years.
• However, we are still far away from meeting the aspirations of people in terms of access to health services, and this remains a challenge.
• Ayushman Bharat Yojna and Jan Arogya Yojna are programs that focus on providing all kinds of health facilities to people and are steps towards universal health coverage, making health services affordable, and ensuring access to health facilities.

SOURCE: THE WEEK

ENVIRONMENT, GEOGRAPHY, AND AGRICULTURE

5. IPCC’S SIXTH ASSESSMENT REPORT

THE CONTEXT: IPCC released Sixth Assessment Report, “Climate Change 2021: The Physical Science Basis”

 Analysis:

• The 1.5 degrees Celsius temperature goal of the Paris Agreement would likely be breached around 2030.
• Tropical cyclones are getting stronger and wetter, while Arctic Sea ice is dwindling in the summer and permafrost is thawing.
• Glaciers in the Hindu Kush Himalayan (HKH) region will keep shrinking and the snow cover will retreat to higher altitudes.
• The report attributes catastrophic events to sustained global warming, particularly frequency and intensity of hot extremes, marine heatwaves, heavy precipitation, agricultural and ecological droughts, the proportion of intense tropical cyclones, reductions in Arctic Sea ice, snow cover.
• Based on existing commitments by countries to curb their emission, the world is on track for global temperature warming by at least 2.7°C by 2100, predicts the report, calling it ‘Code red for humanity’.

INTERGOVERNMENTAL PANEL ON CLIMATE CHANGE (IPCC)

• It was established by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) in 1988 to provide the governments of the world with a clear scientific view of what is happening to the world’s climate.
• The secretariat is supported by WMO and UNEP and hosted at WMO headquarters in Geneva.
• It is open to all member countries of the United Nations (UN) and WMO.
• It does not conduct any research nor does it monitor climate-related data or parameters.
• Review is the main part of the IPCC process, to ensure an objective and complete assessment of current information.

SOURCE: TH

INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

6. PM MODI PROPOSES 5 PRINCIPLES TO BUILD A GLOBAL MARITIME SECURITY ROAD MAP

THE CONTEXT: Chairing a high-level United Nations Security Council open debate on “Enhancing Maritime Security – A Case for International Cooperation”, Prime Minister put forward five principles: a global roadmap for maritime security cooperation can be prepared.

Analysis:

• 5 PRINCIPLES:

1. 1. We should remove barriers to legitimate maritime trade. Global prosperity depends on the active flow of maritime trade.
   2. The settlement of maritime disputes should be peaceful and based on international law.
   3. The global community should together face natural disasters and maritime threats created by non-State actors.
   4. Preserving the maritime environment and maritime resources,
   5. encouraging responsible maritime connectivity

• The open debate was focused on ways to effectively counter maritime crime and insecurity, and strengthen coordination in the maritime domain.
• The UN Security Council has discussed and passed resolutions on different aspects of maritime security and maritime crime in the past. However, this is the first time that maritime security was discussed holistically as an exclusive agenda item in such a high-level open debate.

SOURCE: THE PRINT

August 10, 2021 Prelim Practice Questions

Q 1.  Consider the following statements about IPCC:

1. It was established in 1988 by WMO and UNDP.
2. Its headquarter is hosted at WMO headquarters in Geneva.
3. It is a scientific body that gathers, monitors, and does research on climate-related data.

Which of the above-given statements is/are incorrect?

a) 1 only

b) 2 and 3 only

c) 1 and 3 only

d) 3 only.

Answer for August 08 & 09, 2021 Prelims Practice Questions

Q1: Answer: c)

Explanation:

• Aruna Asaf Ali, popularly known as the ‘Grand Old Lady’ of the Independence Movement.
• She hoisted the National Flag at Mumbai’s Gowalia Tank Maidan during QIM.

Q2: Answer: a)

Explanation:

• The Pradhan Mantri Dakshta Aur Kushalta Sampann Hitgrahi (PM-DAKSH) Yojana is being implemented by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment from the year 2020-21.
• Under this Yojana, eligible target groups are being provided skill development training programs.

[WpProQuiz 17]

1. Restoring governance and normalcy in J&K READ MORE
2. The protectors? The threat to human rights and bodily integrity is the highest in police stations, says the CJI READ MORE
3. The GST Council Is a Constitutional Crisis in the Making READ MORE

1. Addressing the quality deficit in India’s technical education READ MORE
2. Did inequality really increase during the pandemic? READ MORE
3. Haryana’s child pregnancies: Shift in societal mindset, swift action imperative READ MORE

1. Explained: Why the Atlantic Ocean current system is slowing down, and its implications READ MORE
2. There will be more floods. Be prepared READ MORE
3. IPCC: Overwhelming Evidence of ‘Irreversible’ Human Footprint on Climate READ MORE

1. Meditate to log on to your soul for answers READ MORE
2. DEALING WITH OTHERS READ MORE
3. Haryana’s child pregnancies: Shift in societal mindset, swift action imperative READ MORE
4. The protectors? The threat to human rights and bodily integrity is the highest in police stations, says the CJI READ MORE

(Newspapers, PIB and other important sources)

Prelims and Mains

1. Virendra Kumar launches ‘PM-DAKSH’ Portal and ‘PM-DAKSH’ Mobile App READ MORE
2. 1,000 years before the Greeks, ancient Babylonians had developed a unique form of trigonometry READ MORE
3. Ladakh administration’s decision on inner line permit draws mixed reaction from local taxi operators READ MORE
4. Over 5 cr beneficiaries enrolled under PM Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan so far READ MORE
5. Hundreds flee, homes destroyed, as fires ravage island in Greece READ MORE
6. Covishield-Covaxin mix gives better protection, says ICMR READ MORE

Main Exam 

GS Paper- 1

1. Explained: Why the Atlantic Ocean current system is slowing down, and its implications READ MORE

GS Paper- 2

POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

1. Restoring governance and normalcy in J&K READ MORE
2. The protectors? The threat to human rights and bodily integrity is the highest in police stations, says the CJI READ MORE
3. The GST Council Is a Constitutional Crisis in the Making READ MORE

SOCIAL JUSTICE AND SOCIAL ISSUES

1. Addressing the quality deficit in India’s technical education READ MORE
2. Did inequality really increase during the pandemic? READ MORE
3. Haryana’s child pregnancies: Shift in societal mindset, swift action imperative READ MORE

INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

1. Act East policy’s success rests on peace and trust between neighbours READ MORE
2. At UNSC, India’s values and interests converge READ MORE
3. Regional security brings India, Iran closer READ MORE
4. Chance for India to make its mark on UN stage READ MORE

GS Paper- 3

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1. Revisit the idea of ‘aging out’ India’s coal plants: A more nuanced analysis considering the various characteristics of individual plants would be appropriate READ MORE
2. Tightrope walk: The RBI should not undermine its own credibility by delaying steps to rein in inflation READ MORE
3. Finally, an end to the draconian retro tax READ MORE
4. Google, Amazon, Flipkart have all protested. India needs a new trade secrets law READ MORE

ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

1. There will be more floods. Be prepared READ MORE
2. IPCC: Overwhelming Evidence of ‘Irreversible’ Human Footprint on Climate READ MORE

GS Paper- 4

ETHICS EXAMPLES AND CASE STUDY

1. Meditate to log on to your soul for answers READ MORE
2. DEALING WITH OTHERS READ MORE

Questions for MAIN exam

1. Old coal power plants, which are major contributors to emissions, should be shut down. Examine.

2. The UNSC presidency offers India an opportunity to underscore its credentials as the world’s largest democracy. Comment.

QUOTATIONS AND CAPTIONS

• Peace is not made at the council table or by treaties, but in the hearts of men.
• A more nuanced analysis considering the various characteristics of individual plants would be appropriate.
• The RBI should not undermine its own credibility by delaying steps to rein in inflation.
• Climate models have long predicted that global warming can cause a weakening of the major ocean systems of the world.
• There is a need for a truly autonomous quality assurance body at an arms-length from the government, manned by eminent persons both from industry as well as academia.
• Despite all these efforts, it will take some time to win the trust of the masses in the Valley. There are many wounds on the hearts and minds of this land and its descendants, which need to be healed with the efforts of the government.
• The world is changing, and the pursuit of the interests of nations depends on understanding of the new world and strategic interaction with emerging powers and a successful foreign policy is a balanced foreign policy.
• “Every step towards the goal of justice requires sacrifice, suffering and struggle, the tireless exertion and passionate concern of dedicated individuals.”
• The absence of trade secret legislation in India leads to unnecessary litigation and non-cooperation in ongoing antitrust investigations.

50-WORD TALK

• The UNSC meeting today under PM Modi’s presidentship would be the right occasion to walk the talk and showcase the Indian ‘commitment to international law’ so as to be taken seriously as a global solution provider. As it is said, res ipsa loquitur — things speak for themselves. Hence, the right content in the PM’s presidential address would do so. The UNSC monthly presidency provides a unique opportunity to showcase India as a ‘different’ power.
• The diplomatic signalling coincides with a radical shift in the situation around Iran as well as in India’s political economy. Washington and Tehran are inching toward an agreement and a lifting of US sanctions against Iran. In anticipation, as many as 73 countries, including the EU, sent delegations to attend the ceremony in Tehran. Iran’s integration into the world community has become unstoppable.
• A first track and field gold, best medals haul, rediscovery of hockey glory, several near misses – a pandemic ravaged ​India couldn’t have asked for a better Olympics. But this is just the beginning. It must inspire scores more athletes across more disciplines to raise the tally at Paris 2024.

Things to Remember:

• For prelims related news try to understand the context of the news and relate with its concepts so that it will be easier for you to answer (or eliminate) from given options.
• Whenever any international place will be in news, you should do a map work (marking those areas in maps and also exploring other geographical locations nearby including mountains, rivers etc. same applies for the national places.)
• For economy related news (banking, agriculture etc.) you should focus on terms and how these are related with various economic aspects, for examples if inflation has been mentioned, try to relate with prevailing prices rises, shortage of essential supplies, banking rates etc.
• For main exam related topics, you should focus on the various dimensions of the given topic, the most important topics which occurs frequently and are important from the mains point of view will be covered in ED.
• Try to use the given content in your answer. Regular use of this content will bring more enrichment in your writing.

ART AND CULTURE

1. 79TH ANNIVERSARY OF QUIT INDIA MOVEMENT

THE CONTEXT: As part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav being celebrated to mark 75 years of Independence, National Archives of India is organizing an exhibition on the Quit India Movement on its 79th anniversary.

ABOUT QUIT INDIA MOVEMENT

CAUSES	SUCCESSES	FAILURE
 Involvement of India in World War II without prior consultation with the leaders  Failure of Cripps Mission  Shortage of essential commodities  Prevalence of anti-British sentiment  Centralisation of many small movements.	 Women empowerment  Rise of future leaders  Rise of nationalism.	 The movement did not have the support of many organisations of the country itself.  The Britishers were supported by the Princely States, British Indian Army, Indian Civil Services, Viceroy’s Council (which had Indians in the majority), All India Muslim League, and Indian Imperial Police.  The Hindu Mahasabha, RSS & Muslim League also opposed the Quit India Movement.  Many Congress members like C Rajagopalachari resigned from the provincial legislature as they did not favour Mahatma Gandhi's idea.

KEY EVENTS OF QUIT INDIA MOVEMENT

• Quit India Movement, or ‘Bharat Chhodo Aandolan’, began on August 8, 1942, with its foundations being laid back in 1939 when the Governor-general of India was Lord Lilingthow.
• In 1942, Sir Staford Cripps was sent to India by the British Establishment to negotiate with the leaders of the All India Congress Committee for gaining their support in exchange for their freedom.
• In July the Quit India Movement Resolution was passed at the Wardha Conference of All India Congress Committee.
• Mahatma Gandhi delivered his speech at Mumbai’s Gowalia Tank Maidan, also called August Kranti Maidan, on 08th August 1942. The movement also came to be known as the August Kranti or India August Movement.
• Mahatma Gandhi was arrested and jailed at Pune’s Aga Khan Palace.
• Many other senior members of the Indian National Congress were also arrested.
• The British Government banned the Congress Committee declaring it an unlawful association.
• Aruna Asaf Ali, popularly known as the ‘Grand Old Lady’ of the Independence Movement, hoisted the National Flag at Mumbai’s Gowalia Tank Maidan.
• This event was followed by an uproar among the people and the emergence of several young leaders such as Ram Manohar Lohia, Jai Prakash Narayan, SM Joshi etc.

PHASES OF QUIT INDIA MOVEMENT

• First phase: The first phase or the inception of the movement had no violence. It began with civil disobedience, boycotts, strikes that the British Government quickly suppressed.
• Second phase: In its second phase, the movement shifted to the countryside. The second phase of the movement took a violent and aggressive turn. Any building or offices which were the symbol of the colonial authority was attacked and distracted. Communication systems, railway stations & tracks, telegraph poles and wires were also targeted.
• Third and last phase: In the last phase of the movement, there was the formation of many independent national or parallel governments in the isolated pockets of the country, such as Ballia, Satara, Tamluk, etc.

SOURCE: NEWSONAIR

INDIAN POLITY, GOVERNANCE AND SOCIAL JUSTICE

2. PM-DAKSH PORTAL AND MOBILE APP

THE CONTEXT: Government launched PM-DAKSH Portal and PM-DAKSH Mobile App. Through these portal and app the youth of the target groups will now be able to avail the benefits of skill development training programmes more easily.

ABOUT PM-DAKSH

• The Pradhan Mantri Dakshta Aur Kushalta Sampann Hitgrahi (PM-DAKSH) Yojana is being implemented by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment from the year 2020-21.
• Under this Yojana, eligible target group are being provided skill development training programmes on (i) Up-skilling/Re-skilling (ii) Short Term Training Programme (iii) Long Term Training Programme and (iv) Entrepreneurship Development Program (EDP).
• These training programs are being implemented through Government Training Institutes, Sector Skill Councils constituted by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and other credible institutions.
• Some of the features of this portal are as follows:
• Availability of all information related to skill development at one place for Scheduled Castes, Backward Classes and Safai Karamcharis.
• Facility to register for the training institute and program of their interest.
• Facility to upload desired documents related to personal information.
• Facility to register the attendance of the trainees through face and eye scanning during the training period.
• Monitoring facility through photo and video clip during training etc.
• Under Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, three Apex Corporations – National Scheduled Castes Finance and Development Corporation, National Backward Classes Finance and Development Corporation and National Safai Karamcharis Finance and Development Corporation- are functioning. These Corporations are providing loans at concessional interest rates to the target groups of backward classes, scheduled castes and Safai Karamcharis for self-employment. Besides, they are also providing free training for skill development of the target groups.

SOURCE: PIB

3. OVER 5 CR BENEFICIARIES ENROLLED UNDER PMGDISHA

THE CONTEXT: The Government said that approximately five crore beneficiaries have been enrolled and more than four crores have been trained under the Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan Scheme till the 2nd of August.

ABOUT PMGDISHA

• The Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (PMGDISHA) being initiated under Digital India Programme would cover 6 crore households in rural areas to make them digitally literate.
• Digital Literacy is the ability of individuals and communities to understand and use digital technologies for meaningful actions within life situations. Digitally literate persons would be able to operate computers/digital access devices (like tablets, smart phones, etc.), send and receive emails, browse internet, access Government Services, search for information, undertaking cashless transactions, etc. and hence use IT to actively participate in the process of nation building.
• The Scheme is applicable only for rural areas of the country.
• Eligible Household:A household is defined as a unit comprising of Head of family, spouse, children and parents. All such households where none of the family member is digitally literate will be considered as eligible household under the Scheme.
• Entry criteria
  • The beneficiary should be Digitally Illiterate
  • Only one person per eligible household would be considered for training
  • Age Group: 14 – 60 years
• Priority would be given to
  • Non-smartphone users, Antyodaya households, college drop-outs, Participants of the adult literacy mission
  • Digitally illiterate school students from class 9th to 12th, provided facility of Computer/ICT Training is not available in their schools
• Preference would be given to SC, ST, BPL, women, differently-abled persons and minorities
• The duration of the training program is for 20 hours which has to be completed in a minimum of 10 days and maximum of 30 days.

SOURCE: NEWSONAIR

4. PM TO LAUNCH UJJWALA 2.0 ON 10TH AUGUST

THE CONTEXT: Prime Minister will launch Ujjwala 2.0 (Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana – PMUY) by handing over LPG connections, at Mahoba Uttar Pradesh.

THE JOURNEY FROM UJJWALA 1.0 TO UJJWALA 2.0

• During Ujjwala 1.0 launched in 2016, a target was set to provide LPG connections to 5 crore women members of BPL households.
• Subsequently, the scheme was expanded in April 2018 to include women beneficiaries from seven more categories (SC/ST, PMAY, AAY, Most backward classes, tea garden, forest dwellers, Islands). Also, the target was revised to 8 Crore LPG connections. This target was achieved in August 2019, seven months ahead of the target date.
• In the Union budget for FY 21-22, provision for an additional one crore LPG connection under the PMUY scheme was announced. These one crore additional PMUY connections (under Ujjwala 2.0) aim to provide deposit-free LPG connections to those low-income families who could not be covered under the earlier phase of PMUY.
• Along with a deposit free LPG connection, Ujjwala 2.0 will provide first refill and hotplate free of cost to the beneficiaries. Also, the enrollment procedure will require minimum paperwork.
• In Ujjwala 2.0, migrants will not be required to submit ration cards or address proof.
• A self-declaration for both ‘family declaration’ and as a ‘proof of address’ will suffice.
• Ujjwala 2.0 will help achieve the Prime Minister’s vision of universal access to LPG.

SOURCE: PIB

ENVIRONMENT, GEOGRAPHY AND AGRICULTURE

5. WILDFIRES RAVAGE GREEK ISLAND

THE CONTEXT: Hundreds of Greek firefighters fought desperately on Sunday to control wildfires on the island of Evia that have charred vast areas of pine forest, destroyed homes and forced tourists and locals to flee.

Analysis:

• Evia lies just northeast of the capital Athens. To the southwest is the Peloponnese region where Hardalias said the situation was stable. Fires in a northern suburb of Athens have subsided.
• Greece and Turkey have been battling devastating fires for nearly two weeks as the region suffered its worst heatwave in decades, which experts have linked to climate change. So far, the fires have killed two people in Greece and eight in neighbouring Turkey, with dozens more hospitalised.

SOURCE: TH

INDIAN ECONOMY

6. INDIA’S IMPORTS FROM CHINA RISE

THE CONTEXT: There has been a surge in China’s share in India’s trade basket by almost 3 percentage points for imports and 2 percentage points for exports.

ANALYSIS:

• China’s share in India’s export and import basket has surged over a year after calls emerged for boycott of Chinese goods in the aftermath of the India-China standoff and the ‘Atmanirbharta’ (self-sufficiency) push.
• But experts say that this surge may be short-lived, pointing to the impending opening up of factories around the world.
• According to the ministry of commerce, the fifteen largest trading partners of India represent 60% of the total trade by India. These include US, China, United Arab Emirates, Hong Kong, Singapore, United Kingdom, Bangladesh, Germany, Netherlands, Nepal, Belgium, Vietnam, Malaysia, Italy, and Saudi Arabia.

SOURCE: THE PRINT

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

7. J&J’S SINGLE-DOSE COVID VACCINE GETS APPROVAL

THE CONTEXT: Johnson & Johnson’s single dose coronavirus vaccine was granted Emergency Use Authorization, making it the fourth vaccine to be approved by the Indian government.

Analysis:

• The single dose shot offered 91 per cent to 96.2 per cent protection against death, while offering 67 per cent protection against hospitalisation when the Beta coronavirus variant dominates and about 71 per cent protection against hospitalisation when the Delta variant dominates.
• So far, India has been administering Serum Institute of India’s Covishield, Bharat Biotech’s Covaxin, and the Russian Sputnik V vaccines. The Moderna vaccine had earlier received EUA, but will not be available in India till next year.
• A recent trial conducted in South Africa found that the J&J vaccine offered protection against severe disease and death.
• The the country had administered over 50 crore vaccines so far.

SOURCE: IE

8. ICMR: COVISHIELD – COVAXIN MIXGIVES BETTER PROTECTION

THE CONTEXT: The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said  that a combination of Covishield and Covaxin vaccines elicits better immunogenicity than two doses of the same vaccine.

ANALYSIS:

• Previously the World Health Organisation had warned against mixing of vaccines, saying there was very little information on the mix-and-match of vaccines.
• It advised against people mixing and matching vaccines from different manufacturers, calling it a “dangerous trend” since there was little data available about the health impact.
• The Council admitted that there are few limitations to their study.

Source: TH

August 08 & 09, 2021 Prelim Practice Questions

Q 1. Who is popularly known as the ‘Grand Old Lady’ of the Independence Movement?

a) Madam Bhikaiji Cama

b) Sarojini Naidu

c) Aruna Asaf Ali

d) Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay

Q2. The PM-DAKSH Yojana is being implemented by

a) The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment

b) The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship

c) The Ministry of Electronics and IT

d) The Ministry of Finance

Answer for August 07, 2021 Prelims Practice Questions

Q1: Answer: d)

Explanation:

• • Statement 1 is correct: UN Security Council has total 15 members (5 permanent and 10 non-permanent members).
  • Statement 2 is correct: India is a non-permanent member of UNSC at present elected for two year term 2021-22.
  • Statement 3 is correct: Coffee club is group of countries which opposes UNSC expansion.

Q2: ANSWER a)

Explanation:

• • POSHAN Abhiyaan aims to reduce malnutrition in the country in a phased manner, through a life cycle approach, by adopting a synergised and result oriented approach.
  • The Programme strives to induce behavioural change through nutrition centric Jan Andolans in the form of Poshan Pakhwadas and Poshan Maahs. The target for reducing the prevalence of-
  • Statement 1 is correct: stunting among children under 5 years is by 2% per annum and Statement 2 is incorrect: anemia among children under 5 years is by 3% per annum.

[WpProQuiz 16]

ART AND CULTURE

1. 150 YEARS OF ICONIC ARTIST ABANINDRANATH TAGORE

THE CONTEXT: Year-long celebrations marking 150 years of Abanindranath Tagore started with a host of online workshops and talks paying tributes to the leading light of the Bengal School of Art.

Analysis:

• Abanindranath, a nephew of Rabindranath Tagore and a decade younger to the poet, helped shape modern Indian art and was the creator of the iconic ‘Bharat Mata’ painting.

CONTRIBUTION DURING SWADESHI MOVMENT

• Abanindranath Tagore was arguably first major exponent of an artistic idiom that sought to modernise the
• Mughal and Rajput styles in order to counter the influence of Western models of art under colonial regime.
• His unique interpretation of swadeshi themes created a new awakening and heralded a revival of Indian art.
• Tagore advocated in favour of a nationalistic Indian art derived from Indian art history, drawing inspiration from the Ajanta Caves.
• The Indian Society of Oriental Art was founded in Calcutta in 1907 with his initiative.

Source: The Hindu

INDIAN POLITY, GOVERNANCE AND SOCIAL JUSTICE

2. POSHAN TRACKER APPLICATION

THE CONTEXT: Poshan Tracker management application provides a 360-degree view of the activities of the Anganwadi Centre (AWC), service deliveries of Anganwadi Workers (AWWs) and complete beneficiary management for pregnant women, lactating mothers and children. Simultaneously, the mobile application also digitizes and automates physical registers used by AWWs that helps improving their quality of work.

Analysis:

• The AWWs are being provided Smart phones procured through Government e-Market (GeM) for efficient service delivery.
• A total of 8.66 lakhs Smart phones have been procured by 32 States/UTs. Further, AWW and Lady Supervisor (LS) are being provided ₹200/- per month for recharging of smart phones.
• Government has organised training of AWWs to facilitate use of Poshan Tracker by them and till date, more than 6.5 lakhs AWWs have been trained.

POSHAN ABHIYAAN

• POSHAN Abhiyaan aims to reduce malnutrition in the country in a phased manner, through a life cycle approach, by adopting a synergised and result oriented approach.
• The Programme strives to induce behavioural change through nutrition centric Jan Andolans in the form of Poshan Pakhwadas and Poshan Maahs.

The target for reducing the prevalence of stunting among children under 5 years is by 2% per annum and anemia among children under 5 years is by 3% per annum.

Source: PIB

3. SANKALP PROGRAMME

THE CONTEXT: The Union Minister of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship has provided information on Sankalp Programme to parliament.

Analysis:

• The implementation period of SANKALP is till March, 2023, and the positive outcome so far is seen in the following areas:

1. 1. 1. Strengthening of the District Skill Committees leading to demand-driven approach for the implementation of the PradhanMantriKaushalVikasYojana (PMKVY).
      2. District-level skill planning through District Skill Development Plans.

• Focus on improving access to skill training for Women, SC/ST and other marginalized weaker sections of the society.

The institutions strengthened so far under SANKALP are as under:

• State Skill Development Missions through State Incentive Grants.
• District Skill Committees through Mahatma Gandhi National Fellowship (MGNF) program and capacity building training.
• Gram Panchayats by bringing skill training and certification within their ambit.
• Sector Skill Councils by linking them up with opportunities for industry-skilled manpower connection indistricts.
• National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) being an important implementing partner of pilot projects.
• National Instructional Media Institute (NIMI) by augmenting resources through their management of the MGNF Program.
• SANKALP is a supporting programme to skill training schemes which focuses inter-alia on improvement of quality, strengthening of institutions and inclusion of weaker sections in skill training.
• SANKALP has undertaken several initiatives to contribute to improvement in employability, some of which are asunder:

1. 1. 1. Strengthening of District Skill Committees for improved access to and demand driven skill trainings foremployment.
      2. Emphasis on skill certification in Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) at Gram Panchayat level for improving employmentqualitatively.

• Funded development of an IT system namely “Skill India Portal” to capture the data for skilling related activities across thecountry.

1. 1. 1. Global Skill Gap study was conducted to identify the global gaps in demand and supply of skilled manpower as well as overseas employment opportunities for skilled workers from India. The Report helped in identifying important countries of interest as destination and job roles ofinterest.
      2. Released Rs. 273.49 Crore as State Incentive Grants to 30 States/ UTs and Rs. 13.91 Crore to aspirational districts for implementation of SANKALP Scheme in the States/UTs.
      3. Improving quality of trainers in Auto sector in collaboration with Automotive Skill Development Council (ASDC), Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) and Maharashtra State Skill Development Society (MSSDS) at Aurangabad, Maharashtra.

• A Gender Action Plan (GAP) has been prepared for promoting inclusion of women in Short term skilling and livelihood opportunities.

ABOUT SANKALP PROGRAM

• Skills Acquisition and Knowledge Awareness for Livelihood Promotion (SANKALP) Scheme is a World Bank loan assisted programme of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) with three key Result Areas (RA), namely (i) Institutional Strengthening at Central,State, and District level; (ii) Quality Assurance of skill development programmes; and (iii) Inclusion of marginalized population in skill development programmes.

Source: PIB

4. IMPLEMENTATION OF SVAMITVA AND E-PANCHAYAT PROGRAMMES

THE CONTEXT:  Drone flying has been completed in 52,970 villages and Property Cards distributed in 7440 villages to property owners.

ABOUT SVAMITVA SCHEME

• SVAMITVA Scheme aims to provide the ‘Record of Rights’ to village household owners possessing houses in inhabited areas in villages with issuance of legal ownership rights (Property cards/Title deeds).
• The pilot phase of the Scheme was launched on 24^th April 2020 for implementation during 2020-21 in 6 states namely Haryana, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. Later on, villages of one border district of Punjab and Rajasthan and few villages of Andhra Pradesh were also added in the pilot phase of implementation.
• During 2021-2025, the Scheme is to be implemented across the country in phased manner and would eventually cover all the villages of the country.
• States/Union Territories need to sign Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Survey of India (SoI) for implementation of the scheme. In addition to 9 pilot phase States, 17 more States have signed MoU with SoI since national roll out of scheme on 24^thApril 2021.

ABOUT E-PANCHAYAT PROGRAMMES

• With the aim to transform functioning of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs), Ministry is implementing e-Panchayat Mission Mode Project (MMP) under Digital India Programme.
• This is expected to make them more transparent, accountable and effective organs of local self-governing institutions.
• eGramSwaraj (egramswaraj.gov.in), a Simplified Work Based Accounting Application for Panchayati Raj has been developed amalgamating functionalities of planning, monitoring, accounting and online payments.
• The Panchayats have been encouraged to adopt the e-GramSwaraj-PFMS (Public Finance Management System) interface to make payments to vendors through PFMS and not through cheques.

Source: PIB

5. INDIA’S ELDERLY POPULATION TO RISE 41% OVER NEXT DECADE TO TOUCH 194 MN IN 2031: GOVT REPORT

THE CONTEXT: India’s elderly population (aged 60 and above) is projected to touch 194 million in 2031 from 138 million in 2021, a 41 per cent increase over a decade, according to the National Statistical Office (NSO)’s Elderly in India 2021 report.

Analysis:

• The report said there will be 93 million males and 101 million females in 2031 — up from 67 million males and 71 million females in 2021.
• The NSO, which falls under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), sought to provide insights about the problems and status of elderly persons in the country, and help in policymaking.
• The report stressed the 2017 United Nations Report on World Population Ageing, which claimed that by 2030 the people aged 60 years or above are expected to outnumber children under age 10.
• According to the report, Kerala currently has the highest elderly population (16.5 per cent), followed by Tamil Nadu (13.6 per cent), Himachal Pradesh (13.1 per cent), Punjab (12.6 per cent) and Andhra Pradesh (12.4 per cent) in 2021. Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Assam have the least proportion with 7.7 per cent, 8.1 per cent and 8.2 per cent, respectively.

Source: The Print

ENVIRONMENT, GEOGRAPHY AND AGRICULTURE

6. ARABIAN SEA CYCLONES MORE FREQUENT IN RECENT YEARS

THE CONTEXT: Studies using a 50-year (1970-2019) extreme weather events dataset of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) have shown that in recent decades, there has been increased occurrences of extreme weather events, including extremely severe cyclonic storms.

Analysis:

• An analysis of past data of cyclones over the North Indian Ocean (Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea) during the period 1891–2020 indicates that the frequency of extremely severe cyclonic storms has increased in recent few years over the Arabian Sea since 1990, and remained the same over the Bay of Bengal.
• These events had significant impacts over various regions of the Indian subcontinent leading to loss of lives and property as well as adversely affecting the livelihood of the vulnerable community, he said.
• The highest loss of lives occurred during Cyclones Tautkae, 2021, 118 deaths), Amphan(2020, 98 deaths), Titli (2018, 78 deaths) and Nilam (2012, 75 deaths), the data showed.

Source: The Indian Express

7. IN BHUTAN, THE WORLD’S RAREST HERON IS ON THE BRINK OF EXTINCTION

THE CONTEXT: In March, the annual white-bellied heron population survey by the Royal Society for Protection of Nature, Bhutan, a civil society organisation, recorded 22 herons. This was a decline by five compared to 27 birds in 2020.

Analysis:

• According to the conservation NGO Birdlife International, the white-bellied heron is already extinct in Nepal and possibly in Bangladesh too, with the entire global population now restricted to northern Myanmar, northeast India and Bhutan. But a recent study gives cause for concern for the species in Bhutan too.
• Locally known as Chubja, Bhutan is home to around 45%-50% of the total global population of white-bellied heron, and the largest known number of breeding pairs.
• The white-bellied heron, found in the freshwater ecosystems of the Himalayas, is the most endangered heron species in the world.
• Listed as critically endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List since 2007, its total global population is estimated to be only 50 adult birds-249 adult birds, and numbers are declining even further.

Source:  SCROLL

8. NO PROVISION TO DECLARE ANY NATURAL DISASTER AS A ‘NATIONAL CALAMITY’: PANEL REPORT

THE CONTEXT: Standing Committee report to the Department of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation (DoWR, RD & GR) confirmed that there is no provision to declare any natural calamity as a ‘National Calamity’.

Analysis:

• Under the existing Scheme of State Disaster Response Fund / National Response Fund of the Ministry of Home Affairs, there is no provision to declare any disaster including flood as a National Calamity.The answer was in response to a query by the committee as to when and under what circumstances, can floods in an area be declared as a national calamity.
• the department added that whenever a calamity of ‘severe nature’ occurred, financial assistance was provided. It is not practical and economically feasible to provide complete protection to all flood-affected areas. Therefore, reasonable economic security is given to reduce the damage caused by floods.
• The committee also observed that in view of the existing constitutional and administrative classification, it appeared that the responsibility of flood management lay with everyone and hence no one paid attention to it.
• This administrative approach needed to be changed. Hence, the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti should take up this important responsibility of flood control.
• It also recommended the central government should take the responsibility of flood control and coordination, keeping in view the loss of life and property due to floods.
• To this end, it suggested setting up a permanent National Integrated Flood Management Group under the chairmanship of the Minister of Jal Shakti, with respective state ministers to be part of the group. The committee suggested meeting once a year.

Source: Down to Earth

9. FLOODS, HEAVY RAINS KILLED A LAKH PEOPLE IN 65 YEARS, CAUSED LOSS OF RS 4 LAKH CRORE

THE CONTEXT: Flooding has affected approximately 40 million hectares of India’s land area. From 1953-2018, 109,374 people died as a result of floods and heavy rains in the country, while 6,109,628 animals died. During these 65 years, the country is estimated to have lost Rs 400,097 crore. This information is contained in the report of the Standing Committee of Parliament (Water Resources).

Analysis:

• According to the Standing Committee, the frequency of floods was increasing annually. As a result of this, the central and state governments could no longer blame each other, as the committee had discovered.
• All stakeholders needed to understand that managing floods was their collective responsibility. The committee stated that the attitude of blaming each other had to be abandoned. The committee recommended that the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti (Water Resources) be in charge of flood management throughout the country.
• The Standing Committee also requested the Centre to form a permanent National Integrated Flood Management Group chaired by the Minister of Jal Shakti, with participation from the concerned ministers of each state and at least one meeting be held each year. The committee recommended that the first meeting of this group be held within three months of the report being tabled in Parliament.
• The committee proposed developing an Integrated River Basin Management Plan involving all flood-affected states as well as neighbouring countries, in order to manage the water of neighbouring countries.
• The Standing Committee also requested that the Dam Safety Bill and the River Basin Management Bill be passed as soon as possible and that the existing Disaster Management Act of 2005 be properly implemented.
• The report noted that flood plain zoning was yet to be implemented in many states. The central government had sent the Model Bill of Flood Plain Zoning Act to the states, but work had only been done in Manipur, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand and Jammu and Kashmir so far.
• However, the work of marking the flood plain had not been completed completely here. No progress had been made in making this law in the flood-affected states of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Assam and Odisha.

Source: Down to Earth

INDIAN ECONOMY

10. RBI HOLDS RATES STEADY, INFLATION FORECAST NOW CLOSE TO 6% LIMIT

THE CONTEXT: The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) kept the key policy rate unchanged at four per cent for the seventh time in a row, and reverse repo rate at 3.35 per cent. The panel has also raised the inflation target for fiscal 2001-22 but maintained the growth forecast at 9.5 per cent.

Analysis:

• The six-member MPC panel, headed by RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das, voted in favour keeping key policy rates unchanged and decided to continue with an accommodative stance as long as necessary to revive and sustain growth on a durable basis and continue to mitigate the impact of Covid-19on the economy, while ensuring that inflation remains within the target going forward.
• The RBI panel says the nascent and hesitant recovery in the economy needs to be nurtured through fiscal, monetary and sectoral policy levers.
• Elevated inflation level and delayed recovery in the economy would have prompted the panel to keep rates steady. Interest rates in the banking system are expected to remain stable in the next couple of months.
• The RBI panel has hiked the inflation target for fiscal 2021-22 to 5.7 per cent from 5.1 per cent projected earlier. Although the target is below the RBI’s upper band of inflation target of six per cent, input prices are rising across manufacturing and services sectors and weak demand and efforts towards cost cutting are tempering the pass-through to output prices.
• With crude oil prices at elevated levels, a calibrated reduction of the indirect tax component of pump prices by the Centre and states can help to substantially lessen cost pressures.

Source: The Indian Express

 INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

11. INDIA & CHINA FINALLY DISENGAGE IN GOGRA, TEMPORARY STRUCTURES REMOVED, ‘BUFFER ZONE MADE’

THE CONTEXT: India and China have completed troop disengagement from the Gogra area of eastern Ladakh, after 15 months of a “sensitive face-off”.

Analysis:

• The disengagement process, which includes removal of all temporary structures and other allied infrastructure by both sides, and restoration of landform to “pre-stand-off period”, was carried out over two days that is 4 and 5 August.
• The development comes days after the 12th round of corps-commander-level talks between India and China, which were held on 31 July at the Chushul-Moldo meeting point on the Chinese side of the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
• India and China had been locked in a stand-off at the LAC since April-May last year.Efforts have been underway at multiple levels since last year to resolve the tensions.
• While Gogra disengagement has been finalised now, disengagement has also been completed at two other points of friction, Pangong Tso and Galwan Valley.
• The next focus of India-China talks will be the Hot Springs area, which is Patrolling Point 17A.The remaining friction points — like Depsang Plains and Demchok — will take time.

Source: The Print

MISCELLANEOUS

12. KHEL RATNA NAMED AFTER DHYAN CHAND

THE CONTEXT: The Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna stands renamed as the “Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna”.

Analysis:

• The announcement came a day after the men’s hockey team ended a 41-year wait for an Olympic medal by taking the third spot, and on a day when the women’s team finished fourth after some heart-winning performances, including a stunning victory over Australia.
• Dhyan Chand, a three-time Olympic gold medallist, is considered India’s greatest hockey player.
• His birthday, on August 29, marks the National Sports Day, when the National Sports Awards are presented each year.

Source: The Hindu

August 07, 2021 Prelim Practice Questions

Q 1. Consider the following statements:

1. UN Security Council has total 15 members.
2. India is a member of UNSC at present.
3. Coffee club is group of countries which advocate for UNSC expansion.

Which of the above given statements is/are correct?

1. 1 only
2. 1 and 2 only
3. 2 and 3 only
4. 1, 2 and 3

Q2. Consider the following statements regarding targets under POSHAN Abhiyaan.

1. Reducing stunting among children under 5 years is by 2% per annum
2. Reducing anaemia among children under 5 years is by 4% per annum.

Which of the above given statements is/are correct?

1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. Both
4. None