INDIAN POLITY, GOVERNANCE AND SOCIAL JUSTICE

1. SUICIDES AMONG FARMWORKERS ROSE 18% IN 2020

THE CONTEXT:  According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) report, the number of agricultural labourers who died by suicide in 2020 was 18% higher than the previous year.

THE EXPLANATION:

• Suicides among landowning farmers dropped slightly during the pandemic year.
• Landless agricultural labourers, who did not benefit from income support schemes such as PM Kisan, may have faced higher levels of distress during the pandemic.
• The worst among the States continues to be Maharashtra, with 4,006 suicides in the farm sector, including a 15% increase in farmworker suicides.
• The other States with a poor record include Karnataka (2016), Andhra Pradesh (889) and Madhya Pradesh (735).

SOURCE:  TH  

2. A NATIONWIDE EXPANSION OF PCV

THE CONTEXT:   Union Health Minister launched a nationwide expansion of Pneumococcal 13-valent Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) under the Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP) as a part of ‘Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav’.

THE EXPLANATION:

• It was for the first time in the country that PCV would be available for universal use. Pneumonia was a leading cause of death among children under five, globally and in India.
• Pneumonia caused by pneumococcus is the most common cause of severe pneumonia in children.
• Around 16% of deaths in children occur due to pneumonia in India. The nationwide roll-out of PCV will reduce child mortality by around 60%

ABOUT PCV13

• Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) protects against bacterial infections that can cause life-threatening meningitis, pneumonia or sepsis.
• Pneumococcal disease refers to any illness caused by pneumococcal bacteria. These bacteria can cause many types of illnesses, including pneumonia, which is an infection of the lungs.
• Besides pneumonia, pneumococcal bacteria can also cause Ear infections, Sinus infections, Meningitis (infection of the tissue covering the brain and spinal cord), Bacteremia (infection of the blood).
• Side effects: Redness, swelling, pain, or tenderness where the shot is given, and fever, loss of appetite, fussiness (irritability), feeling tired, headache, and chills can happen after PCV13 vaccination.
• India’s first pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) named “Pneumosil” was launched in 2020. It has been developed by the Serum Institute of India Private Limited (SII) in collaboration with partners like the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
• A conjugate vaccine is a type of vaccine which combines a weak antigen with a strong antigen as a carrier so that the immune system has a stronger response to the weak antigen.

SOURCE:  TH

3. INDIA’S R VALUE STEADY AT 0.90

THE CONTEXT: India’s effective reproduction number or R for Covid is steady at 0.90, the same as last week. However, several states including West Bengal, Assam and Himachal Pradesh are now showing an upward trend in infections.

THE EXPLANATION:

• R indicates the average number of people who are likely to catch the infection from a Covid positive individual. The value of R should remain below 1 for the pandemic to come to an end.
• Himachal Pradesh now has the highest R at 1.20. R for West Bengal and Telangana too is above 1.
• R values for Maharashtra and Karnataka are 0.94 and 0.95, respectively.
• Kerala is once again witnessing a rise in infection rate(0.89). While for Tamil Nadu, the value reduced from 0.94 to 0.92, Odisha’s R dropped from 0.90 to 0.88 this week.
• Among cities, Kolkata has the highest R of 1.14, followed by Delhi, which has R at 1.1.
• R for Bengaluru and Chennai is 0.93 and 0.92, respectively. Meanwhile, Mumbai’s R is at 0.94, and Pune’s R is relatively low at 0.84.

SOURCE: THEPRINT

4. PUBLIC AFFAIRS INDEX 2021

THE CONTEXT:       Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Telangana have taken the top three slots, emerging winners among the 18 large states in governance performance, Public Affairs Centre (PAC), a Bengaluru-based nonprofit think tank.

EXPLANATION:

• Gujarat ranks fifth, Karnataka seventh and Maharashtra 12th in the ranking.
• A highlight of this year’s study is the Covid-19 response index. It is an analysis of the government response of the states to the pandemic and the degree of success achieved in mitigating its impact.
• While Sikkim, Goa and Mizoram have emerged winners among the small states, Puducherry, Jammu & Kashmir and Chandigarh are the toppers among the union territories.
• In the overall rankings, Kerala continues to be at the top and Tamil Nadu has retained its second place. Telangana has replaced Andhra Pradesh at the third spot compared to last year’s ranking.
• The study shows Telangana, Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh have performed better than their parent States.
• Telangana, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand and Gujarat have performed well in the overall index, while Maharashtra, Assam, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh have slipped in rankings as compared to last year, the study noted.
• Andhra Pradesh which ranked third last year ranks eighth this time due to its fall in the equity and growth pillars. Similarly, Karnataka which ranked fourth last time has declined to seventh place — it has slipped from 12th place to 16th place on the equity pillar score.
• Gujarat which ranked ninth last year has climbed to fifth position this year. While West Bengal which ranked 12th last year, has slipped to 15th, Maharashtra that ranked seventh last year has slipped to 12th because of a drastic fall in the equity pillar.
• This is a clear indication that Maharashtra is struggling to recover from the pandemic, the study has noted.
• A surprise feature is Jharkhand’s jump from 15th to 9th place and ranking third in the growth pillar.

About PAI

• Public Affairs Index (PAI 2021), as the study is called, has prepared the list based on scores secured by the states in governance performance across the pillars of equity, growth and sustainability.
• The study is an annual assessment of the adequacy and quality of governance in states, and it has also assessed the states on the basis of their implementation of the centrally sponsored-programmes of rural employment guarantee scheme, national health mission, integrated child development service, Samagra Siksha Abhiyan and mid-day meal scheme.
• The Public Affairs index series is a purely evidence-based assessment of the performance of states using only the central government data sources.

SOURCE: ET

ENVIRONMENT, GEOGRAPHY AND AGRICULTURE

5. HEALTH INSURANCE FOR INDIA’S MISSING MIDDLE

THE CONTEXT: NITI Aayog released a comprehensive report titled Health Insurance for India’s Missing Middle, which brings out the gaps in the health insurance coverage across the Indian population and offers solutions to address the situation.

THE EXPLANATION:

• The report highlights the need for designing a low-cost comprehensive health insurance product for the missing middle.
• It primarily recognizes the policy issue of low financial protection for health for the missing middle segment and highlights health insurance as a potential pathway in addressing that.
• In doing so, the report offers a starting point for broader discussions on solutions, and specific products, to improve insurance coverage for the missing middle.
• The report proposes wider industry and government stakeholder consultations, and discussion with consumer groups to delve deeper into the specifics of the problem, and potential solutions.

 SOURCE: PIB

INDIAN ECONOMY

6. AYUSH MARKET SIZE CROSSES US DOLLARS 18 BILLION

THE CONTEXT: Buoyed by the growing global and domestic demand and enabled by strong support to regulatory, research and development, and back-end infrastructure by the Ministry, the market size of AYUSH has grown by 17 per cent in 2014-20 to reach US dollars 18.1 billion.

THE EXPLANATION:

• As per the Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS) report, despite a slump in economic activity in 2020 due to the pandemic, the industry is projected to reach US$ 20.6 billion in 2021 and US$ 23.3 billion in 2022.
• In terms of the global share, India has grown faster in the AYUSH market as compared to the world and accounts for about 2.8 per cent of the market, which is likely to hold even though disruptions in production are not ruled out.
• During the same period, different product segments have grown at a much higher rate than the overall industry.
• Plant derivatives experienced 21 per cent growth in the period 2014-2020 followed by nutraceuticals (20.5 per cent), pharmaceuticals (15.8 per cent), plant extracts 14.7 per cent and herbal plants (14.3 per cent).
• Ayush medicines have done exceedingly well in helping Covid19 patients recover faster across the world during the first and second waves of pandemics in the last one and a half years.

SOURCE: PIB

7. NO MONEY LEFT IN MGNREGA COFFERS

THE CONTEXT: The Centre’s flagship rural employment scheme has run out of funds halfway through the financial year, and supplementary budgetary allocations will not come to the rescue for at least another month when the next Parliamentary session begins.

THE EXPLANATION:

• According to its own financial statement, the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) scheme shows a negative net balance of Rs 8,686 crore.

• This means that payments for MGNREGA workers as well as material costs will be delayed unless the States dip into their own funds.
• Activists say the Centre is condemning workers to “forced labour” by delaying wage payments at a time of economic distress.
• However, the Centre is now accusing many States of “artificially creating demand” for work on the ground.
• During last year’s COVID-19 lockdown, the scheme was ultimately given its highest budget of Rs 1.11 lakh crore.

SOURCE: TH

8. SHAKTIKANTA DAS GIVEN 3-YEAR EXTENSION AS RBI GOVERNOR

THE CONTEXT: The Government of India has extended the tenure of Reserve Bank of India (RBI) governor Shaktikanta Das for a period of three years.

THE EXPLANATION:

• Mr Das was appointed as RBI’s 25th governor on December 11, 2018, for a period of three years, after the then governor Urjit Patel resigned before the end of his term.
• Prior to that, Mr Das had served as Revenue Secretary and Economic Affairs Secretary in the Ministry of Finance.
• With the extension, he will head the RBI till December 2024.
• Das, 1980 batch officer, played an important role in steering the economy during the COVID-19 period.
• Under his leadership, RBI announced more than 100 measures to maintain financial stability and push growth during the unprecedented crisis.
• To steer the economy out of the woods, triggered by a once-in-a-century pandemic, he took both conventional and unconventional measures.
• The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) headed by him brought down the benchmark interest rate to a record low of 4 per cent last year in May, and since then it has maintained an accommodative stance to support the economy. The government’s largest-ever borrowing of Rs 12.60 lakh crore was also conducted smoothly.
• In his earlier stint as Economic Affairs Secretary from 2015 to 2017, Das worked closely with the central bank and oversaw the demonetisation of high-value notes in late 2016.
• After his retirement, he has named India’s G-20 sherpa and was also appointed as a member of the 15th Finance Commission.

SOURCE: TH

INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

9. PM MEETS ITALIAN PM MARIO DRAGHI

THE CONTEXT: PM met the Prime Minister of Italy, H.E. Mr Mario Draghi in Italy on 29 October 2021, on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Rome. This was their first in-person meeting.

THE EXPLANATION:

• PM congratulated Prime Minister Draghi for successfully hosting the G20 in the midst of a global pandemic. Italy is also partnering with the UK in organizing COP-26 in Glasgow.
• The two leaders discussed the challenges posed by climate change, and the need for the international community to work together.
• PM highlighted the transformative climate actions undertaken by India and the concerns of developing countries about climate financing commitments of the developed world.
• The two leaders also exchanged views on recent global and regional developments, including in Afghanistan and the Indo-Pacific. They reiterated their desire for working closely together to further the India-EU multi-faceted cooperation.
• On the bilateral side, the two leaders reviewed developments since the India-Italy Virtual Summit in November 2020 and expressed satisfaction at the progress in implementation of the 2020-2025 Action Plan adopted at the Virtual Summit that set strategic goals in the political, economic, S&T and cultural spheres to be achieved in the next five years.
• The two leaders reiterated their commitment to further expanding trade and investment linkages between the two countries particularly in textiles, food processing, automotive and renewable energy sectors.
• To provide fresh impetus to the bilateral cooperation in renewables and clean energy, India and Italy issued a Joint Statement announcing a Strategic Partnership on Energy Transition and agreed to explore partnerships in areas such as large size green corridor projects, smart grids, energy storage solutions, gas transportation, integrated waste management (waste-to-wealth), development and deployment of green hydrogen and promotion of biofuels. India and Italy also signed a Statement of Intent on Textiles cooperation during the meeting.
• PM extended an invitation to PM Draghi to pay an official visit to India at the earliest opportunity.

SOURCE: PIB

 10. UNGA COMMITTEE ENDORSES INDIA’S RESOLUTION FOR GRANTING OBSERVER STATUS TO ISA

THE CONTEXT: A draft resolution introduced by India for granting the Observer Status to the International Solar Alliance has been adopted in a U.N. General Assembly committee.

THE EXPLANATION:

• The draft resolution was adopted in the General Assembly’s Sixth Committee, which deals with legal issues, without a vote on October 28.
• The 76th session of the UN General Assembly will now have to formally adopt the recommendation of the Sixth Committee.
• The General Assembly decided that observer status would be confined to states and intergovernmental organisations whose activities cover matters of interest to the Assembly.
• The Sixth Committee of the General Assembly considers all applications for observer status before they are considered in the plenary session. Permanent Observers may participate in the sessions and workings of the General Assembly and maintain missions at the UN Headquarters.
• Intergovernmental organisations having received a standing invitation to participate as Observers in the sessions and the work of the General Assembly include the EU, INTERPOL, International Renewable Energy Agency, OECD, ADB, ASEAN, Commonwealth of Independent States, European Organisation for Nuclear Research, Indian Ocean Rim Association, SCO, SAARC, International Committee of the Red Cross and International Olympic Committee.
• The International Solar Alliance was opened for signature as an international treaty-based organisation in November 2016 and the agreement entered into force on December 6, 2017.
• The alliance of solar-resource rich countries with its membership was open to those 121 U.N. member states that lie fully or partially between the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn.
• This was further amended at the First Assembly of the ISA, to expand the scope of ISA membership to all U.N. member states.

SOURCE: TH

PRELIMS PRACTICE QUESTIONS

Q1 A conjugate vaccine is:

a) A single vaccine is used for two different diseases.

b) A vaccine is used for a single disease.

c) A vaccine that combines a weak antigen with a strong antigen as a carrier.

d) A vaccine that combines a strong antigen with a weak antigen as a carrier.

ANSWER FOR OCTOBER 29, 2021 PRELIMS PRACTICE QUESTIONS

Q1 Answer: C

Explanation:

• It is a narrow strip of territory in Afghanistan, extending to China and separating Tajikistan from Pakistan.
• From this high mountain valley, the Panj and Pamir rivers emerge and form the Amu Darya.
• The corridor was formed by an 1893 agreement between the British Empire (British India) and Afghanistan, creating the Durand Line.
• This narrow strip acted as a buffer zone between the Russian Empire and the British Empire.

1. Silly point: Support for the national cricket team or its players is no litmus test for patriotism READ MORE
2. Gratitude & Happiness READ MORE
3. The Protagonist of a Tolerant Society READ MORE

4. COP26: Realistic expectations – Glasgow will not solve the climate crisis but it can fast-track global climate collaboration READ MORE
5. COPing with climate change: Rich nations must walk the talk on clean energy READ MORE

1. In India, the steady subversion of equality: The sharp turns away from democracy seen recently in the country must jolt citizens into stopping the descent READ MORE
2. The Hunger Conundrum: India has to accelerate efforts to improve the nutrition levels of the population. READ MORE

1. The Aryan Khan case is about constitutionalism READ MORE  
2. Fair play: The State’s tendency to charge anyone under the UAPA is facing sustained legal challenge READ MORE
3. India Has a Serious Hunger Problem and it Needs Urgent Policy Intervention READ MORE

(Newspapers, PIB and other important sources)

Prelim and Main

1. UNGA committee endorses India’s resolution for granting Observer Status to International Solar Alliance READ MORE
2. Shaktikanta Das given 3-year extension as RBI governor READ MORE
3. Centre’s Fiscal Deficit Touches 35% of Budget Estimate read READ MORE
4. India’s R value steady at 0.90, but Delhi, Kolkata see rise in infection rate READ MORE
5. Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Telangana emerge toppers in governance performance: PAC study READ MORE
6. Jackie Chan and ‘Game of Thrones’ inspire names of new gecko species in Western Ghats READ MORE
7. Suicides among farm workers rose 18% in 2020 READ MORE

Main Exam 

GS Paper- 1

1. Why Sardar Patel supported Partition READ MORE
2. In India, the steady subversion of equality: The sharp turns away from democracy seen recently in the country must jolt citizens into stopping the descent READ MORE

GS Paper- 2

POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

1. The Aryan Khan case is about constitutionalism READ MORE  
2. Fair play: The State’s tendency to charge anyone under the UAPA is facing sustained legal challenge READ MORE
3. India Has a Serious Hunger Problem and it Needs Urgent Policy Intervention READ MORE

SOCIAL ISSUES

1. The Hunger Conundrum: India has to accelerate efforts to improve the nutrition levels of the population. READ MORE

INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

1. India Slam China’s New Boundary Law Amid Border Tensions READ MORE

GS Paper- 3

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1. Where are we in the growth cycle? READ MORE
2. Banks must not turn away MSMEs READ MORE
3. Economic Impact of COVID-19-induced Lockdown on Rural Households READ MORE

ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY  

4. COP26: Realistic expectations – Glasgow will not solve the climate crisis but it can fast-track global climate collaboration READ MORE
5. COPing with climate change: Rich nations must walk the talk on clean energy READ MORE

SECURITY

1. Pegasus ruling a call for law on cyber security READ MORE

GS Paper- 4

ETHICS EXAMPLES AND CASE STUDY

1. Silly point: Support for the national cricket team or its players is no litmus test for patriotism READ MORE
2. Gratitude & Happiness READ MORE
3. The Protagonist of a Tolerant Society READ MORE

Questions for the MAIN exam

1. ‘The pandemic has exposed the poor State of health infrastructure in the rural areas which needs to be addressed on priority’. Comment.
2. While surveillance is a legitimate tool in the hands of governments, it can only be in accordance with the stipulated parameters and procedures established by law. Discuss.

QUOTATIONS AND CAPTIONS

• The question of hegemony is always the question of a new cultural order.
• The sharp turns away from democracy seen recently in the country must jolt citizens into stopping the descent.
• Support for the national cricket team or its players is no litmus test for patriotism.
• Indic ethical ideas based on Hindu, Buddhist and Jain texts and contexts can inspire us to be more responsible, sustainable, and moral to protect and preserve our planet and nature.
• Service of mankind, when done with selflessness, is a natural outcome of gratitude.
• India has rightly stated that COP26 should not be confined to ‘promises and pledges’ as the world needs rapid and deep emission cuts this decade rather than distant targets.
• While surveillance is a legitimate tool in the hands of governments, it can only be in accordance with the stipulated parameters and procedures established by law.
• There has to be a harmonious balance between the protection of national security on the one hand and the protection of enjoyment of individual liberties on the other.
• The State’s tendency to charge anyone under the UAPA is facing sustained legal challenge.
• The success of the vaccination drive has shown that this is possible and the same leadership, team spirit and motivation are required to transform the public health sector.
• India is not committing to net zero emissions at COP26, but one day it will need to. This is the time to initiate legal and regulatory changes and allow finance to flow in.
• There is an urgent need for immediate policy intervention to uplift the poor from hunger and deprivation.
• As the global economy starts to witness a tapering of peak growth and higher inflation, India could see higher inflation and higher growth.

ESSAY TOPIC

• Service of mankind is a natural outcome of gratitude.

50- WORD TALK

• The disruption of Friday namaz across Gurgaon sectors by Hindu right wing groups and some residents is a sad reflection of the intolerance and anti-minority sentiment that dominates our society and politics today. Othering of the minority seems to have become a norm. Only political will can stop this now.
• More national security issues and cyber security aspects are likely to come up for consideration before the SC. Citing this judgment, courts could push the envelope of cyber legal jurisprudence and jurisprudence concerning national security law to come up with a balanced approach. While national security is paramount, it should not be used to trammel the citizens’ liberties.

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 map 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.

1. Heart in the right place: We need a young brigade with a social service bent of mind in all-India services READ MORE
2. Shocked By Friend’s Death, Man Launches 24/7 Aid For Accident Victims In 700 Districts READ MORE
3. Jair Bolsonaro and his crimes against humanity READ MORE

1. The Glasgow climate test: G20 leaders in particular need to deliver READ MORE
2. A climate dividend: While a net zero commitment can be avoided, India stands to gain from an energy transition READ MORE
3. What India’s new water policy seeks to deliver READ MORE

1. Getting the focus back on Early Childhood Education READ MORE
2. Here’s Why India Is Struggling to Be Truly Open Defecation Free READ MORE

1. Should the NDPS Act be amended? Certain provisions could be changed to ensure a reformative approach towards addicts READ MORE
2. Naga talks: The way ahead READ MORE

(Newspapers, PIB and other important sources)

Prelim and Main

1. Remarks by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi at the 18th India-ASEAN Summit READ MORE
2. India largely on track to meet its Paris Climate Agreement targets, says new report READ MORE
3. The world should shut nearly 3,000 coal plants to keep on climate track: study READ MORE
4. Delhi has lowest death rate in India, urban-rural divide is shrinking, latest govt data shows READ MORE
5. Unesco World Heritage forests: India’s Sundarbans among 5 sites with highest ‘blue carbon’ globally READ MORE
6. MeitY to organise “AI Pe Charcha” on “AI for Date Driven Governance” theme READ MORE
7. Eye on Afghanistan, China to build military base in Tajikistan READ MORE

Main Exam

GS Paper- 2

POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

1. Should the NDPS Act be amended? Certain provisions could be changed to ensure a reformative approach towards addicts READ MORE
2. Naga talks: The way ahead READ MORE

SOCIAL ISSUES

1. Getting the focus back on Early Childhood Education READ MORE
2. Here’s Why India Is Struggling to Be Truly Open Defecation Free READ MORE

INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

1. EAS sets stage for more rivalry in Indo-Pacific READ MORE
2. BIMSTEC is a key platform for India READ MORE

GS Paper- 3

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1. The economics behind adopting blockchain READ MORE
2. Gati Shakti: Connecting the silos READ MORE
3. Has crop insurance helped Indian farmers? Many don’t get payments on time READ MORE

ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY  

1. The Glasgow climate test: G20 leaders in particular need to deliver READ MORE
2. A climate dividend: While a net zero commitment can be avoided, India stands to gain from an energy transition READ MORE
3. What India’s new water policy seeks to deliver READ MORE

TECHNOLOGY

1. Inflection point for AI in healthcare READ MORE

GS Paper- 4

ETHICS EXAMPLES AND CASE STUDY

1. Heart in the right place: We need a young brigade with a social service bent of mind in all-India services READ MORE
2. Shocked By Friend’s Death, Man Launches 24/7 Aid For Accident Victims In 700 Districts READ MORE
3. Jair Bolsonaro and his crimes against humanity READ MORE

Questions for the MAIN exam

1. Pandemic has highlighted the importance of active parental engagement in the early education of their children. Examine.
2. ‘Making crop insurance work well is one of the key ways to insulate farmers from volatility in farm incomes and make farming sustainable’. Justify the statement.

QUOTATIONS AND CAPTIONS

• Authority does not come from the loudest voice, but the wisest.
• The Supreme Court committee will do Indian citizens justice if it reconciles the idea of security with liberty and privacy.
• The home environment and stimulation children receive within the household can be important contributory factors.
• While a net zero commitment can be avoided, India stands to gain from an energy transition in Glasgow.
• New Water Policy calls for multi-disciplinary, multi-stakeholder approach to water management.
• The NWP gives the highest priority to sustainable and equitable management of groundwater. Participatory groundwater management is the key.
• The East Asia Summit reiterates ASEAN centrality, buts it’s up to ASEAN to accept greater responsibilities in the evolving region.
• The proposal of developing a an interconnected BIMSTEC electricity grid is a good example of future of energy security. India has begun well at BIMSTEC and should keep its momentum high.
• If we want rapid digitisation of India’s healthcare, grounds-up endorsement of some form of a digital solution by end users right from the grassroots is the way to go.
• The people of the Northeast have to be incorporated into the nation-building exercise and the greater Indian dream. The success of the Naga talks would be the first step in that direction.
• Making crop insurance work well is one of the key ways to insulate farmers from volatility in farm incomes and make farming sustainable

50- WORD TALK

• NCB is the latest example of the unfettered powers of central agencies put to political use. With West Bengal and Maharashtra, states are beginning to push back. Law and order is already a vexed Centre-states subject. If the current trend remains unchecked, it can lead to the next political crisis.
• Police actions against Kashmiri students for alleged pro-Pakistan Whatsapp posts and slogans after a cricket match is an overreaction. It flies in the face of HM Amit Shah’s outreach to Kashmiri youth. Need of the hour is to remove mistrust, not bullet proof shields. Political exigencies mustn’t dictate national interest.

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 map 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.

INDIAN POLITY, GOVERNANCE AND SOCIAL JUSTICE

1. CHENNAI-MYSORE-CHENNAI SHATABDI EXPRESS BECOMES THE FIRST IMS CERTIFIED TRAIN

THE CONTEXT:  A feather in the cap of Southern Railway, Chennai – Mysore – Chennai Shatabdi Express has received Integrated Management Systems Certification.

THE EXPLANATION:

• Chennai – Mysore- Chennai Shatabdi Express becomes the first Integrated Management Systems (IMS) certified train of Southern Railway, first Shatabdi of Indian Railways and second mail/express train on Indian Railways.
• This certification has been granted by the certification agency after a comprehensive audit and duly verifying adherence by Railways to all laid down norms.
• Most importantly, this train is running on Head-On-Generation (HOG) Technology, thereby reducing pollution and saving on the consumption of diesel.
• Maintaining 100 per cent passenger amenities in working condition, 100 per cent Biodigester toilet operations and 100 per cent functional sub-pantry equipment, Quality air conditioning, lighting and other electrical amenities with energy conservation technology are the Special features of this train.
• In this train, passengers also get Braille signage seat indication number And Pre-loaded Wi-fi Infotainment System.
• Automatic sliding door closer for passenger coupe in Executive coach, fire extinguishers in all coaches with fire suppression system fitted in power cars and unified information sticker in all coaches with emergency contact numbers ensuring safe and comfortable travel for passengers in this train.

SOURCE:  PIB

ENVIRONMENT, GEOGRAPHY AND AGRICULTURE

2. LOAN FOR INTEGRATED URBAN FLOOD MANAGEMENT IN CHENNAI

THE CONTEXT: The Government of India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed a $251 million loan for climate-resilient, integrated urban flood protection and management in the Chennai-Kosasthalaiyar basin to strengthen the resilience of Chennai city to floods.

THE EXPLANATION:

• The project will establish climate-resilient urban flood protection infrastructure. It will construct 588 kilometres (km) of new stormwater drains, rehabilitate or replace 175 km of stormwater drains, improve 11 km stretches in the Ambattur, Ariyallur, Kadappakkam, and Korattur channels to enhance water-carrying capacity, and upgrade a stormwater pumping station and construct a new one.
• It will also construct 23,000 catch pits in roadside drains to recharge the groundwater aquifer and rehabilitate four disaster relief camps.
• Flood preparedness will be strengthened by developing guidelines to integrate flood hazard zoning into spatial and land use planning, implementing a flood citizen observatory for real-time information in flood areas and creating a manual for green infrastructure design, including rainwater harvesting.
• The project also aims to enhance stakeholders’ involvement, including proactive participation of women, in flood preparedness by raising community knowledge and awareness of flood risks and impacts and its relationship with solid waste management, sewerage, and protection of water bodies.
• The technical staff of the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) will also be trained on the planning and design of stormwater drainage systems and the management of solid waste and flood risks.
• The project will develop a plan to ensure sustainable operation and maintenance of stormwater drainage systems.
• The project will also support the GCC to develop a roadmap to strengthen municipal resource mobilization for delivering sustainable and quality municipal services to the citizens.

SOURCE: PIB

3. INDIA IS LARGELY ON TRACK TO MEET ITS PARIS AGREEMENT TARGETS

THE CONTEXT: a new report by an international nonprofit environmental organization said that  India is largely on track to meet, and even exceed its Paris Climate Agreement targets.

THE EXPLANATION:

• The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), in its annual review of India’s actions on climate change, said the country is likely to meet its targets of reducing emissions by 33 to 35 per cent of its GDP by 2030 from the 2005 levels and achieve 40 per cent of installed power capacity from non-fossil fuels by 2030.
• In the runup to the climate conference every year, NRDC and partners publish an annual review of India’s actions on climate change.
• India has a pivotal role in future greenhouse gas mitigation and at the same time has massive climate adaptation needs with millions already suffering due to extreme heat, drought, and floods.
• With most of the country’s infrastructure still being built and the energy supply of the future yet to be installed, India has the opportunity to establish a low carbon development paradigm for the rest of the developing world.

SOURCE: IE

4. WORLD SHOULD SHUT NEARLY 3,000 COAL PLANTS TO KEEP ON CLIMATE TRACK

THE CONTEXT: According to research by climate think tank TransitionZero, the world will need to shut down nearly 3,000 coal-fired power plants before 2030 if it is to have a chance of keeping temperature rises within 1.5 Celsius.

THE EXPLANATION:

• TransitionZero said there are currently more than 2,000 GW of coal-fired power in operation across the world, and that needs to be slashed by nearly half, requiring the closure of nearly one unit per day from now until the end of the decade.
• The need to close nearly 1,000 gigawatts of coal-fired capacity would put the onus on China – the world’s biggest source of climate-warming greenhouse gas and owner of around half of the world’s coal-fuelled plants – to accelerate its shift towards cleaner electricity.
• China has reduced the share of coal in its total energy mix from 72.4% in 2005 to 56.8% last year, but absolute consumption volume has continued to rise.

SOURCE: IE

INTERNAL  SECURITY

5. ICGS SARTHAK

THE CONTEXT: In a significant boost to the maritime safety and security of the nation, the indigenously built Indian Coast Guard Ship ‘Sarthak’ was commissioned and dedicated to the nation on October 28, 2021, at Goa.

THE EXPLANATION:

• ICGS Sarthak will be based at Porbandar in Gujarat and operate on India’s Western Seaboard under the Operational and Administrative Control of the Commander, Coast Guard Region (Northwest).
• ICGS Sarthak is 4^thin the series of five OPVs being built by Goa Shipyard Limited for the ICG.
• These OPVs are multi-mission platforms capable of undertaking concurrent operations.
• The 105-meter-long ship displacing 2,450 tons is propelled by two 9,100 kilowatt diesel engines designed to attain a maximum speed of 26 knots.
• The ship is fitted with state-of-the-art equipment, machinery, sensors and weapons which enables it to function as a command platform and undertake mandated Coast Guard charter of duties including search & rescue, combating maritime crimes and preserving & protecting the marine environment.
• Indian Coast Guard is a pioneer in inducting indigenous platforms and ICGS Sarthak is a glowing example of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’

 SOURCE: PIB

6. DEEP DIVE TRAINING PROGRAM

THE CONTEXT: Aimed at strengthening the cyber security ecosystem in India, the MeitY is organising a week-long Deep Dive Online Training program for Chief Information Security officers (CISO) along with Technical Heads, front-line IT staff representing different Ministries, Departments and organisations from Central and State Governments, PSUs, and Bank organisations.

THE EXPLANATION:

• The program is being conducted from October 25 – 30, 2021.
• At the end of the sessions, it is envisaged that the CISOs will be equipped and empowered to handle Cyber Security challenges in their respective organizations and spread requisite awareness about cybercrime and build capacities for safety measures for Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) and frontline IT staff across all government departments.
• Coinciding with the National Cyber Security Awareness Month celebrations, the training program is a part of a series of workshops organised by the National e-Governance Division at MeitY under the Cyber Surakshit Bharat initiative.
• It will help the CISOs and other participants to equip themselves with a better understanding of the changing dynamics of the cyber world so that they are able to translate the benefits of secure cyberspace to individual organisations and citizens at large.
• The role of CISOs is to do a gap analysis of the cyber security in an organisation and come out with a plan and strategy to bridge the gap and take corrective actions.
• The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) had launched the Cyber Surakshit Bharat initiative in January 2018. It is the first public-private partnership of its kind, leveraging the expertise of the IT industry in cybersecurity.

SOURCE: PIB

INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

7. 18TH INDIA-ASEAN SUMMIT

THE CONTEXT: Prime Minister participated in the 18th India-ASEAN Summit at the invitation of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei, the current Chair of ASEAN. The Summit was held virtually and saw participation from the Leaders of ASEAN Member States.

THE EXPLANATION:

• Highlighting the milestone of the 30th anniversary of the India-ASEAN Partnership, the leaders announced the Year 2022 as India-ASEAN Friendship Year.
• Prime Minister underlined the centrality of ASEAN in India’s Act East Policy and in India’s Vision for the wider Indo-Pacific Vision.
• PM and ASEAN leaders welcomed the adoption of the India-ASEAN Joint Statement on cooperation for peace, stability and prosperity in the region.
• On COVID-19, the Prime Minister highlighted India’s efforts in the fight against the pandemic in the region and also reiterated support for ASEAN’s initiatives in this regard.
• India has contributed medical supplies worth USD 200,000 to ASEAN’s humanitarian initiative for Myanmar and USD 1 million for ASEAN’s Covid-19 Response Fund.
• The leaders exchanged views on enhancing India-ASEAN connectivity in broadest terms including physical, digital and people to people.
• To further strengthen India-ASEAN cultural connectivity, Prime Minister announced India’s support for establishing the ASEAN Cultural Heritage List.
• On trade and investment, he underlined the importance of diversification and resilience of supply chains for post-COVID economic recovery and in this regard, the need to revamp the India-ASEAN FTA.
• The ASEAN leaders appreciated India’s role as a trusted partner in the region especially during the current Covid-19 Pandemic with its supply of vaccines.
• The discussions also covered regional and international issues of common interest and concern, including South China Sea and terrorism.
• Both sides noted the importance of promoting a rules-based order in the region including through upholding adherence to international law, especially the UNCLOS.
• The leaders affirmed the importance of maintaining and promoting peace, stability, safety and security in the South China Sea, and ensuring freedom of navigation and overflight.

ABOUT ASEAN

• ASEAN is a regional organization that promotes economic, political, and security cooperation.
• It was founded in August 1967 in Bangkok, Thailand, when the founding fathers of ASEAN, namely Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand, signed the ASEAN Declaration (Bangkok Declaration).
• Its chairperson is rotated annually, according on the alphabetical order of Member States’ English names.
• Members: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.

SOURCE: PIB

8. CHINA TO BUILD MILITARY BASE IN TAJIKISTAN

THE CONTEXT: China will take full control of a military base in Tajikistan near the Afghan border that it has been quietly operating and will also build a new base for the Tajik Government.

THE EXPLANATION:

• The new base, would be owned by Tajikistan’s Rapid Reaction Group or Special Forces, and financed by China for a cost of $10 million. It will be located in the eastern Gorno-Badakhshan autonomous province near the Pamir mountains, and Chinese troops will not be stationed there.
• While this base will be under Tajik control, the Tajikistan Government has also agreed to transfer full control of an existing facility that both sides have been using jointly, a former Soviet base not far from the ChinaTajikistan-Afghanistan tri-junction and the Wakhan Corridor, where China shares a less than 100 km border with Afghanistan.
• The base, once full control has been transferred, will become only the second known overseas Chinese security facility, after Djibouti near the Horn of Africa.
• Russia and India are among countries that already have a military presence in bases in Tajikistan.

ABOUT WAKHAN CORRIDOR

• It is a narrow strip of territory in Afghanistan, extending to China and separating Tajikistan from Pakistan.
• From this high mountain valley the Panj and Pamir rivers emerge and form the Amu Darya.
• The corridor was formed by an 1893 agreement between the British Empire (British India) and Afghanistan, creating the Durand Line.
• This narrow strip acted as a buffer zone between the Russian Empire and the British Empire.

SOURCE: TH

9. U.S. LAWMAKERS BAT FOR CAATSA SANCTIONS WAIVER FOR INDIA

THE CONTEXT: Key lawmakers continue to voice their support for a sanctions waiver for India for its purchase of the S-400 missile defence system from Russia.

THE EXPLANATION:

• India is likely to begin taking delivery of the S-400 in November, potentially activating U.S. sanctions under a 2017 law, Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA).
• They cognized New Delhi’s history of procurement (from Russia) and India’s desire to have diversity in its weapons systems, noting that the situation is difficult.
• Turkey, a NATO ally, was expelled from the American F-35 programme (a consortium to build the aircraft) after it began accepting S-400 shipments in 2019.

SOURCE : PIB

PRELIMS PRACTICE QUESTION

Q1 Strategically located Wakhan corridor is part of which of the following country?

a) Iraq

b) Iran

c) Afghanistan

d) Pakistan

ANSWER FOR OCTOBER 28, 2021 PRELIMS PRACTICE QUESTIONS

Q1 Answer: B

Explanation:

The “Har Ghar Dastak” (Knock Every Door) campaign is scheduled to start soon in districts with low vaccination rates to enthuse and motivate people towards getting their second COVID-19 vaccine dose.

INDIAN POLITY, GOVERNANCE AND SOCIAL JUSTICE

1. SC FORMS COMMITTEE TO EXAMINE PEGASUS ALLEGATIONS

THE CONTEXT:   The Supreme Court-appointed an independent expert technical committee is overseen by a former apex court judge, Justice R.V. Raveendran, to examine allegations that the government used Israeli spyware, Pegasus, to snoop on its own citizens.

THE EXPLANATION:

• SC stressed that the power of the state to snoop in the name of national security into the “sacred private space” of individuals is not absolute.
• It decided to refuse the Centre’s offer to appoint an expert committee to investigate the allegations because “such a course of action would violate the settled judicial principle against bias, i.e., that ‘justice must not only be done but also be seen to be done.”
• Indiscriminate spying on individuals by the state is not allowed in a democracy. The use of technology for surveillance by the state must be evidence-based.
• A need may arise to encroach into individual privacy to access information vital to prevent violence and terror. However, the state can violate a person’s privacy only if it is “absolutely necessary” to protect national security and interests. The necessity to trespass on individual privacy should be proportional.
• In a democratic country governed by the rule of law, indiscriminate spying on individuals cannot be allowed except with sufficient statutory safeguards, by following the procedure established by law under the Constitution.
• Snooping on journalists or creating a fear that the media is being spied on creates a “chilling effect” on journalistic freedom and is an assault on the vital public watchdog role of the press.
• Two principles enunciated by SC in its order: 1. Surveillance, or even the knowledge that one could be spied upon, affects the way individuals exercise their rights, warranting the Court’s intervention. 2. There is no omnibus prohibition on judicial review merely because the spectre of national security is being raised.

SOURCE:  TH

2. FOUR YEAR INTEGRATED TEACHER EDUCATION PROGRAMME

THE CONTEXT:    Ministry of Education notifies the Four Year ITEP, a dual-major holistic bachelor’s degree offering B.A. B.Ed./ B. Sc. B. Ed. and B.Com. B.Ed. which is one of the major mandates of the National Education Policy 2020 related to Teacher Education.

THE EXPLANATION:

• As per the NEP, 2020, teacher engagement from the year 2030 onwards will be only through ITEP.
• It will be offered in pilot mode initially in about 50 selected multidisciplinary institutions across the country.
• National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) under the Ministry of Education has devised the curriculum of this course in such a way that it enables a student-teacher to get a degree in education as well as a specialised discipline such as history, mathematics, science, arts, economics, or commerce.
• ITEP will not only impart cutting-edge pedagogy, but will also establish a foundation in early childhood care and education (ECCE), foundational literacy and numeracy (FLN), inclusive education, and an understanding of India and its values/ethos/art/traditions, among others.
• The Year ITEP will be available for all students who choose teaching as a profession after secondary, by choice. This integrated course will benefit students since they will save one year by finishing it in four years rather than the customary five years required by the present B.Ed. plan.
• The commencement of Four Year ITEP will be from the academic session 2022-23. Admission for the same will be carried out by the National Testing Agency (NTA) through the National Common Entrance Test (NCET). This course will be offered by multidisciplinary institutions and will become the minimal degree qualification for schoolteachers.

SOURCE:  PIB

3. HAR GHAR DASTAK CAMPAIGN

THE CONTEXT: According to the Health Ministry, the “Har Ghar Dastak” (Knock Every Door) campaign is scheduled to start soon in districts with low vaccination rates to enthuse and motivate people towards getting their jab.

THE EXPLANATION:

• There were more than 10.34 crore people in the country who had missed the second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine that they were due to take.
• He added that adequate vaccine doses were available in the country, and more than 12 crore unutilized doses were available with the States.
• Innovative strategies to encourage stakeholders to achieve their targets.

SOURCE:  TH

4. SAMBHAV

THE CONTEXT: Union Minister of MSME launched “SAMBHAV”, a National Level Awareness Programme-2021.

THE EXPLANATION:

• The mass outreach program will be a one-month long initiative under the Ministry of MSME in which students from different colleges/ITIs from all parts of the country will be encouraged by 130 field offices of the Ministry to take up entrepreneurship.
• During the campaign, the college students will be made aware of the various schemes being implemented by the Ministry of MSME through Audio/Video film presentations.
• Awareness programs will be conducted in more than 1,300 colleges across the country in which 1, 50,000 students are expected to participate.

SOURCE:  PIB

ENVIRONMENT, GEOGRAPHY AND AGRICULTURE

5. KRISHI UDAN 2.0

THE CONTEXT: Union Minister of Civil Aviation released Krishi UDAN 2.0. Krishi UDAN 2.0 lays out the vision of improving value realization through better integration and optimization of Agri-harvesting and air transportation and contributing to Agri-value chain sustainability and resilience under different and dynamic conditions. The scheme proposes to facilitate and incentivize the movement of Agri-produce by air transportation.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS OF KRISHI UDAN 2.0

• Facilitating and incentivizing movement of Agri-produce by air transportation: Full waiver of Landing, Parking, TNLC and RNFC charges for Indian freighters and P2C at selected Airports of Airport Authority of India. Primarily, focusing on NER, Hilly and tribal regions.
• Strengthening cargo-related infrastructure at airports and off airports: Facilitating the development of a hub and spoke model and a freight grid. Airside transit and transhipment infrastructure will be created at Bagdogra and Guwahati airports, and at Leh, Srinagar, Nagpur, Nashik, Ranchi, and Raipur airports as a part of a focus on NER, Tribal and Hilly Districts.
• Concessions sought from other bodies: Seek support and encourage States to reduce Sales Tax to 1% on ATF for freighters / P2C aircraft as extended in UDAN flights.
• Resources-Pooling through establishing Convergence mechanism: Collaboration with other government departments and regulatory bodies to provide freight forwarders, airlines and other stakeholders with Incentives and concessions to enhance air transportation of Agri-produce.
• Technological convergence: Development of E-KUSHAL (Krishi UDAN for Sustainable Holistic Agri-Logistics). Platform to be developed facilitate information dissemination to all the stakeholders. Furthermore, integration of E-KUSHAL with the National Agriculture Market (e-NAM) is proposed.
• Total 53 airports are selected for the first phase of Krishi UDAN 2.0. The majority of them are operated by AAI.
• The strategic selection of the airports is primarily focused on the northeast region. Additionally covers North, entire western coast and southern India (including two islands).
• Airports for implementation of KrishiUdan 2.0 are selected with the aim of providing benefit to the entire country Opted airports not only provide access to regional domestic market but also connects them to international gateways of the country.
• Development of E-KUSHAL(Krishi Udaan for Sustainable Holistic Agri-Logistics). Proposed to develop a platform that will facilitate information dissemination to all the stakeholders. This will be a single platform that will provide relevant information at the same time will also assist in coordination, monitoring and evaluation of the scheme. Proposed convergence of E-Kushal with National Agriculture Market (e-NAM).
• Facilitating the development of a hub and spoke model and a freight grid (identified locations for cargo terminals).

 SOURCE: PIB

INTERNAL  SECURITY

6. AGNI -5

THE CONTEXT: A successful launch of the Surface to Surface Ballistic Missile, Agni-5, was carried out on October 27, 2021, at approximately 1950 hrs from APJ Abdul Kalam Island, Odisha.

THE EXPLANATION:

• Agni-5 is capable of striking targets at ranges up to 5,000 kilometres with a very high degree of accuracy.
• Uses a three-stage solid-fuelled engine.
• Successful launch in line with India’s policy to have ‘credible minimum deterrence’ that underpins the commitment to ‘No First Use’

SOURCE: PIB

INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

7. 16TH EAST ASIA SUMMIT

THE CONTEXT: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi participated in the 16th East Asia Summit via videoconference.

THE EXPLANATION:

• The 16th East Asia Summit was hosted by Brunei as EAS and ASEAN Chair.
• It saw the participation of leaders from ASEAN countries and other EAS Participating Countries including Australia, China, Japan, South Korea, Russia, the USA and India. India has been an active participant in EAS.
• This was Prime Minister’s 7th East Asia Summit.
• In his remarks at the Summit, Prime Minister reaffirmed the importance of EAS as the premier leaders-led forum in Indo-Pacific, bringing together nations to discuss important strategic issues.
• Prime Minister highlighted India’s efforts to fight the Covid-19 pandemic through vaccines and medical supplies.
• The 16th EAS also discussed important regional and international issues including Indo-Pacific, South China Sea, UNCLOS, terrorism, and situation in Korean Peninsula and Myanmar.
• PM reaffirmed “ASEAN centrality” in the Indo-Pacific and highlighted the synergies between ASEAN Outlook on Indo-Pacific (AOIP) and India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI).
• The EAS leaders adopted three Statements on Mental Health, Economic recovery through Tourism and Sustainable Recovery, which have been co-sponsored by India.
• Overall, the Summit saw a fruitful exchange of views between the Prime Minister and other EAS leaders.

SOURCE: PIB

PRELIMS PRACTICE QUESTIONS

Q1 Har Ghar Dastak (Knock Every Door) campaign is started by the government for which of the following purpose?

a) To motivate youth to get electoral cards.

b) To motivate people towards getting their COVID-19 vaccine.

c) To motivate people to vaccinate their children.

d) To motivate youth to participate in sports.

ANSWER FOR OCTOBER 27, 2021 PRELIMS PRACTICE QUESTIONS

Q1. Answer: B

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct: The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) is a multilateral development bank.
• Statement 2 is correct: It is headquartered in Beijing and began its operations in January 2016.
• Statement 3 is incorrect: China is the largest contributor to the Bank, contributing USD 50 billion, half of the initial subscribed capital. India is the second-largest shareholder, contributing USD 8.4 billion.

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(Newspapers, PIB and other important sources)

Prelim and Main

1. Union Civil Aviation Minister Shri JyotiradityaScindia releases Krishi UDAN 2.0 READ MORE
2. ‘Knock every door’ campaign to boost second-dose vaccination READ MORE
3. Supreme Court forms committee to examine Pegasus allegations READ MORE
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5. Is Earth Surrounded by a Giant Magnetic Tunnel? New Findings Suggest Possibility READ MORE
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Main Exam    

GS Paper- 1

1. A world minus ads: Social media outrage against brand campaigns is fuelled by intolerance to progressive values READ MORE  
2. Right to marry READ MORE

GS Paper- 2

POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

1. A credible probe: The Centre must fully cooperate with the inquiry instituted by the SC on spyware use READ MORE
2. IGF: In celebration of the Internet | OPINION READ MORE
3. The need today: Localising solutions READ MORE

SOCIAL ISSUES

1. Hunger Index May Have Limitations – But There’s More Than Enough Proof That India Has a Problem READ MORE

INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

1. A new overarching Asian order: With the Indo-Abrahamic bloc, the United States can pivot to East Asia without leaving a vacuum in West Asia READ MORE

GS Paper- 3

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1. India’s post-pandemic fiscal future READ MORE
2. How emerging economies can afford the transition to cheaper, greener power READ MORE
3. Need procurement reforms READ MORE

ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY  

1. Explained: What is the climate vulnerability index released by CEEW? READ MORE
2. Towards a net zero emission economy by 2050 READ MORE
3. Agenda for CoP26: How to achieve net zero READ MORE

SECURITY

1. India needs a policy solution for the problem of radicalization READ MORE

GS Paper- 4

ETHICS EXAMPLES AND CASE STUDY

1. A world minus ads: Social media outrage against brand campaigns is fuelled by intolerance to progressive values READ MORE  
2. Chemical drugs cannot give real happiness READ MORE

Questions for the MAIN exam

1. ‘The rights and choices of the individual matter more than gender’. Discuss the statement in the light of LGBTQ Rights.
2. In the light of the recent developments, discuss the need for a proper policy to address the issue of radicalization in India.

QUOTATIONS AND CAPTIONS

• Conflict is inevitable, but combat is optional.
• High economic inequality might drive India to embrace fairer surveillance capitalist personal data economies.
• At Glasgow, the world must focus on plans and targets to make developed countries net-zero by 2030 and make sure that these are achieved.
• Delaying the switch to zero-carbon power isn’t giving developing countries a chance to catch up with richer nations — it’s retarding their development.
• An inclusive process of planning and programme deployment is the only way to ensure that the most vulnerable have access to benefits.
• Only when we empower our local administrations with the resources to take independent decisions can we design and implement effective solutions.
• The rights and choices of the individual matter more than gender.
• Society is made up of all kinds of individuals with exclusive rights to none. And no tradition is ever written in stone.
• The NEP 2020 recommends the integration of academic and vocational knowledge, which indicates the impact of Gandhian education philosophy The strength and resilience of Indian democracy receive widespread appreciation.
• Any programme aimed at deterring or reversing radicalisation must focus on the ideological commitment that enables violence.
• The problem of radicalisation in India is well past its primary stages and has entered a second stage with more defined characteristics.

50- WORD TALK

• Supreme Court has redeemed itself with its forthright order on Pegasus snooping. National security has long been misused to cut corners around the law and liberties. The judges are wise to dismiss this excuse. Now, they must stay firm, ensure probe is fair and fast, fix accountability and issue correctives.

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 map 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.

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