Category: Ranker Webinars

Context

• Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar has asked the committee of Privileges to investigate an alleged breach of privilege by some MPs under rule 203 of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business.
• The MPs are accused of shouting slogans and obstructing proceedings in the Upper House Rajya Sabha.
• The committee will also investigate alleged breach of privilege arising from non-adherence to the Chair’s directions.

In this article, we will discuss and understand various aspects of the rules of procedure and conduct in Parliament.

Rules of Conduct

• The Committee on Ethics of Rajya Sabha drafted the Code of Conduct for MPs, which was adopted by the House in 2005.
• These rules are prescribed by the House for its members and adopted by the House.
• These are self-governing rules of conduct.
• The rule book also provides the Chairman/Speaker of the House with certain powers to ensure that there is an orderly conduct of business proceedings.

Quick backgrounder

• Codes of conduct for high constitutional functionaries and representatives of the people have been discussed for long.
• A code for Union ministers was adopted in 1964, and state governments were advised to adopt it as well.

Provisions for such rules

• Article 118: The Indian Constitution empowers each House of Parliament to make rules governing its procedure and conduct of Business, Article 118 (1).
• Article 105: It deals with “powers, privileges, immunity etc. of the Houses of Parliament and of the members and committees thereof. There is freedom of speech for the members of the parliament and they are exempted from any legal action for any statement made or act done in the course of their duties.
• Handbook: There is a handbook for members of the parliament which has a number of rules regarding etiquette, conventions and conduct of members. There are dozens of such rules which are strict and meant to govern the dignified conduct of the members in the House.

Key issue: Disruptions in Indian Parliament

There have been continuous disruptions of parliament by members.

• Some members are habitual of disrupting the functioning and jumping in the well for political gains and rivalry.
• Disruptions, sloganeering and moving in the well decreases the productivity of the House.
• Frequent disruptions lead to adjournment of the House.

Why are disruptions so frequent?

There are various reasons for disruptions in the Indian Parliament, including:

• Political differences: Opposition parties often use disruptions as a tactic to voice their opposition to government policies or to press their demands. Similarly, ruling party MPs may also disrupt proceedings to counter opposition criticism.
• Controversial issues: Discussions on certain issues, such as religion, caste, and regionalism, can lead to heated debates and disruptions in Parliament.
• Personal or party agendas: MPs may resort to disruptions to further their personal or party agendas or to gain media attention.
• Lack of decorum: Sometimes, MPs may engage in unruly behavior, including shouting, throwing papers, and obstructing the Chair, leading to disruptions in the House.
• Parliamentary procedures: Disputes over parliamentary procedures and rules can also lead to disruptions and adjournments.

Significance of Parliamentary discussions

• Policymaking: Parliament is responsible for enacting laws and policies that affect the lives of citizens. Through discussions and debates, MPs can shape these policies to better meet the needs of their constituents.
• Checks and balances: Parliament plays a crucial role in overseeing the functioning of the executive branch of government. Through discussions, MPs can hold the government accountable for its actions and decisions.
• Representation of the larger population: Parliament provides a platform for MPs to represent the views and concerns of their constituents. By raising issues and concerns, MPs can ensure that the government addresses the needs of the people they represent.
• Education of citizens: Parliamentary discussions can educate citizens on important issues, policies, and legislative processes. This can help citizens make informed decisions and participate in the democratic process.
• Constructive criticism: Discussions and debates in Parliament can help resolve conflicts and differences of opinion among MPs. This can lead to better decision-making and policy outcomes.

Reasons for such behaviour

• Reduced number of sittings of legislatures
• Poor quality of debates
• Avoidance of accountability by the ruling govt.
• Increasing number of legislatures with criminal records
• High absenteeism of legislators
• Inadequate representation of women
• Lack of inner democracy in the functioning of the political parties

Watchdog of Parliamentary dignity: Privileges Committee

• It is a parliamentary committee present in both Houses of the parliament.
• Its functions are semi-judicial in nature.
• Its function is to examine every question involving breach of privilege of the House or of the members of any Committee thereof referred to it by the House.
• Under rule 203, Chairman can refer any question of privilege to the Committee.

Way forward

Former Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu introduced a 15-point reform charter for parliamentary reforms to enable effective functioning of parliamentary institutions. The charter includes-

• Political Conscience: Call for a new political consciousness amongst legislators to review their roles and responsibilities.
• Ensuring Quorum: Political parties must ensure attendance of at least 50% of their legislators throughout the proceedings of the Houses by adopting a roster system.
• Liberalizing whip system: Review of Whip system which hinders the freedom of expression of the legislators. This will allow a reasonable degree of dissent without impacting the stability of the government.
• Effective functioning of Department Related Standing Committees: Measures for effective functioning of these Committees like longer tenure (instead of the present one year), promoting specialization, etc were needed.
• Legislative Impact Assessment: A detailed framework for pre and post Legislative Impact Assessment was needed. Every legislative proposal must incorporate a detailed account of social, economic, environmental and administrative impact for wider awareness and subsequent legal assessment.
• Responsible government and opposition: Need for responsive governments positively acting on the concerns of the opposition and the need for responsible and constructive opposition while resorting to available parliamentary instruments.
• More women legislators: Enacting for reservation of women in legislatures. It helps maintain decency and modesty of the House of parliament.
• Rules and Regulations: Making rules that automatically take action against erring members in case of interruptions and disruptions. Need for timely and effective action against legislators for non-ethical conduct.
• Transparency & Accountability: Regular publication of reports by the Secretariats of Legislatures on the attendance of Members and their participation in debates.
• Decriminalization of Politics: Addressing the concern of a rising number of legislators with criminal records.
• Increased number of sittings: A minimum number of sittings for both the Houses of Parliament and State Legislatures per year need to be appropriately prescribed.

Conclusion

• There must be strict adherence to the code of conduct for MPs so that disruptions of the proceedings don’t happen.
• It is important to spend more time on deliberations and discussion rather than on disruptions to increase the productivity of the House.
• Government and opposition must come to an understanding and move forward for the betterment of the nation. The government must be responsive and for that the opposition has to be responsible.
• Certain reforms are needed to increase efficiency of the House and ensure that the members attend the house to contribute to the discussions instead of hijacking the functioning of the House with repeated disruptions.

Attempt UPSC 2024 Smash Scholarship Test | FLAT* 100% OFF on UPSC Foundation & Mentorship programs

Get your Rs 10,000 worth of UPSC Strategic Package for FREE | PDFs, Zoom session, Tests, & Mentorship

Context

• An American billionaire’s recent comments on India have come under heavy criticism from all sections of India.
• Much recently, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar had warned against doctored narratives becoming hurdles in India’s growth.

Doctored Narratives: Motive behind the term

• The term “Doctored Narratives” typically refers to narratives or stories that have been intentionally altered or manipulated in some way to mislead or deceive people.
• This can involve-
  • Changing key details
  • Omitting important information
  • Fabricating events altogether
• Influences are exerted by the powers that be through various means – subversion, funding the nefarious elements, planting certain theories through various literature, devising frameworks in academic setups somewhere and foisting those on unique problems in other countries.

Characterizing such narratives

• Mass provocation: Doctored narratives often include misleading information that is designed to distort or misrepresent the truth. This could involve taking statements out of context or selectively presenting only certain facts.
• Fake news: They may contain outright false information that is designed to mislead the audience. This could involve fabricating events or presenting false statistics or data.
• Emotional appeal: They may be designed to play on the emotions of the audience, using fear, anger, or other strong emotions to influence their opinions.
• Conspiracy theories: Such narratives may promote conspiracy theories or alternative explanations for events that contradict widely accepted facts or evidence.
• Political manipulation: They may appeal to people’s pre-existing beliefs or biases, reinforcing their existing opinions and making it difficult for them to consider alternative perspectives.

In the age of social media, doctored narratives can spread quickly and easily, making it more important than ever to fact-check and verify the information we come across before accepting it as truth.

Narratives against India

Unfortunately, doctored narratives against India are not uncommon, and there have been several instances where misinformation or propaganda has been used to target India. Some examples include:

• Misinformation surrounding the Kashmir conflict: The conflict over the disputed territory of Kashmir between India and Pakistan has been the subject of doctored narratives, with false information being spread on social media to misrepresent the situation and promote anti-India sentiment.
• Alleged ‘murder’ of Democracy: Some doctored narratives have promoted conspiracy theories about India’s government, such as claiming that the government is involved in human rights abuses or that it is suppressing dissent. Ex. Accusing our PM of being anti-minority.
• Misinformation about Indian religions: False information has also been spread about Indian religions, such as claiming that Hinduism is a violent religion or that Sikhism is a separatist movement or associating terrorism and radicalism to a particular religion.

Why such narrative build up against India?

• Western Diktat: There are powers that want the world order to remain as per their vision, their perception of reality, and their ideas of social and economic balances. Be it individual freedom or anything. The sees this through its prism.
• Political meddling: India has been the target of interference by foreign powers seeking to influence its domestic politics and foreign policy. This interference may take the form of funding political campaigns or supporting certain groups or individuals.
• Economic competition: India’s emergence as a major economic power has led to competition and rivalry with other countries. The narrative often portrays India as a threat to the global economy and accuses it of unfair trade practices and intellectual property theft.
• Contention with India’s rise: The present-day Indian leadership has been successfully steering India through the rough waters of International diplomacy while enjoying friendships with competing world powers and still protecting India’s interests.
• Destabilize internal peace and security: India has some treacherous neighborhoods like Pakistan and China who allegedly strive to ‘bleed’ India with ‘thousand cuts’. Ex. Khalistani separatism movement.
• Notion of far-right nationalism: The rise of Hindu nationalism in India has been criticized by some as a threat to secularism and minority rights. The narrative often portrays India as a Hindu supremacist state that discriminates against Muslims and other minorities.

Recent incidences

One can quote various recent examples of how ‘doctored narratives’ took shape of mass protests that aimed at destabilising India from within-

• BBC documentary on PM Modi
• Hindenburg report on Adani Groups
• Communal angle to recent crackdown of Assam Government against child marriages etc.

Why is it an emerging threat?

• Fast spread through social media: Those influenced by ‘doctored narratives’ spread through social media platforms, kept championing the cause of protesters without even paying any heed to logic.
• Political opposition:  Framing charges against the PM is the easiest way. Many examples may still be visible in time to come, depending upon political convenience of the ‘ecosystem’ peddling ‘doctored narratives’.
• Highly opinionated population: Doctored narratives may appeal to people’s pre-existing beliefs or biases, reinforcing their existing opinions and making it difficult for them to consider alternative perspectives.
• Create a socio-political divide: Such narratives can promote division and conflict, inflaming tensions between different groups and creating a sense of “us vs. them.” This can contribute to social unrest and undermine the social fabric of communities.
• Security threats: Such falsification pose security threats, particularly in the form of cyberattacks and other forms of online manipulation. These threats can undermine critical infrastructure, steal sensitive information, and compromise national security.

Conclusion

• Political leaders often have supporters and detractors, and opinions can vary widely depending on a range of factors, including political ideology, social and economic issues, personal beliefs, and cultural background.
• It’s important to approach information with a critical eye and to seek out diverse perspectives before forming an opinion.
• It’s also important to engage in respectful dialogue and to avoid spreading false information or promoting divisive narratives.
• We should strive to create a culture of open and honest communication, based on accurate information and a commitment to progress and positive change.

Attempt UPSC 2024 Smash Scholarship Test | FLAT* 100% OFF on UPSC Foundation & Mentorship programs

Get your Rs 10,000 worth of UPSC Strategic Package for FREE | PDFs, Zoom session, Tests, & Mentorship

UPSC 2024 special | 4th March (Saturday) at 7:30 pm
⭐What you should expect in 1-1 Live with Areeba Ma’am?

---

Areeba, AIR 109 believes there are just two clues: UPSC Syllabus and UPSC PYQs that are out in the open for any aspirant to set the direction of their preparation.

Most of you might have pasted a hard copy of the UPSC syllabus on your study tables and highlighted it, but never cared to read it. Almost none of you understood the linkages and patterns in the UPSC syllabus.

UPSC is a very rational body and its syllabus defines the expanse of the landscape from which questions will be asked. One who has demystified the pattern conquers the UPSC exam.

IPS, Areeba Nooman will take a LIVE 1-1 session where she will help you decode the UPSC syllabus in its entirety.

⭐What you should expect in 1-1 Live with Areeba Ma’am?

Webinar Details

Topic: UPSC 2024 Syllabus decoded: Finding Patterns and Linkages

• Date: 4th March 2023 (Saturday)
• Time: 7:30 P.M.
• Mode: Online (Zoom Meeting Link will be sent through email)

---

Key-Takeaways of Free 1-1 Live Session with Areeba

1. Understanding the philosophy, pattern, and linkages in the UPSC syllabus. What to target for prelims 2024? For those who have started their UPSC preparation only this month onwards.

2. What are conceptual subjects and what are factual subjects? How to prioritize Major conceptual subjects in the first 10 months? And how to finish minor factual subjects for Mains after finishing conceptual subjects?

3. How to make a 10: 20 study plan to complete the syllabus in an easier way? How to focus more and more in the last 5 months before Prelims 2024?

4. What are 60, 45, 25, and 15 rules to crack prelims in the very 1st attempt?

5. Most appropriate sources as per UPSC syllabus

You can’t afford to miss such an awesome LIVE session if you’re a UPSC 2024 aspirant.

⭐What you should expect in 1-1 Live with Areeba Ma’am?

---

CivilsDaily’s FREE Webinar package

Post-webinar we will share important PDFs, timetable framework, and notes.

Other than this a strategy package will be emailed to you.

---

What The Hindu opined about Civilsdaily Mentorship

4th March (Saturday) at 7:30 Pm | LIVE, ask me anything session on How to Cover UPSC 2024 Syllabus cover to cover from scratch? by UPSC Topper AIR-109, IPS, Areeba Noman

WATCH LIVE UPSC Prelims 2023 Session by Pravin sir.

⭐What Should You Expect in 1-1 LIVE with Pravin Sir.

Nobody will dare to gainsay that clearing UPSC Prelims isn’t the result of hardcore revision and knowledge. And it’s also true that even after burning the midnight oil 99% of Aspirants start doubting their own accuracy because they can’t cross 90 marks barrier in their UPSC Prelims Mock Test itself. 

As a result, overthinking, depression, and the fear of failure engulf 99.99% of candidates far before the Real Prelims exam. 

Not just this but aspirants also start compromising with their mock test marks in the false hope that they will score better in the real exam.

It never happens.

Pravin sir, Head of Civilsdaily Pune Branch and Mentor of 500+ successful candidates, opines that those who understand the importance of Mock-Tests and score at least above 100 marks in them are able to clear UPSC Prelims with flying colors.

He also says that scoring 100+ in at least 60% of Mock tests is the only indication of your Prelims Readiness.

As per the need, Pravin sir is hosting a 1-1 LIVE masterclass on How to cross 90 marks barrier in UPSC Prelims Mock-tests.

Webinar Details:

Topic: 10-steps proven strategy to cross 90 marks in UPSC Prelims Mock Tests

• Date: 26th Feb 2023, Sunday
• Time: At 6 P.M
• Mode: Online (Zoom Meeting Link will be sent through email)

---

Key-Takeaways of Free 1-1 Live Session with Pravin Sir

1. What are the previous toppers’ proven ways to utilize and analyze the mock test to perform far better in the next?
2. How to cross 90 marks barrier in UPSC mock tests spontaneously.
3. What are the top 10 ways to evaluate your performance and identify your weak areas?
4. What are the different approaches to attempting subject-wise and full-fledged preliminary tests?
5. How to develop intelligent guessing by attempting only 60 questions with 100% accuracy rather than attempting 90 questions with blind guessing?
6. How many rounds are actually needed to attempt any mock test paper?
7. Untold best strategies to deal with offbeat questions

---

About Pravin Sir:

Pravin sir is a senior IAS mentor with CivilsDaily for nearly 4+ years and is now Working as a Mentor Head and CivilsDaily’s Pune center head. He has cleared all 6 UPSC Prelims, appeared for two UPSC interviews. Last year 138 students under his mentorship crossed UPSC Prelims stage and wrote Mains 2022.

---

CivilsDaily’s FREE Webinar package

Post-webinar we will share important PDFs, timetable framework, and notes.

Other than this a strategy package will be emailed to you.

---

What The Hindu opined about Civilsdaily Mentorship

26th February (Sunday) at 6 pm | LIVE, ask me anything session on How to cross 90 marks barrier in UPSC prelims mocks? 10-steps proven strategy by Pravin sir.

A year after Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine, there are signs of escalation everywhere.

Why did Russia invade Ukraine?

The reasons behind Russia’s invasion of Ukraine are complex and multifaceted, and there is no one single cause for the conflict.

• Geopolitical Interests: Ukraine has long been considered a strategically important country for Russia, both as a buffer zone and as a source of natural resources. Russia has historically sought to maintain its influence in Ukraine and may have viewed the pro-Western government that came to power in Ukraine in 2014 as a threat to its interests.
• Ethnic Tensions: There are significant ethnic Russian populations in Ukraine, particularly in Crimea and eastern Ukraine. Russia has claimed to be protecting the rights of these populations, although Ukraine and other countries have accused Russia of fomenting separatism and supporting armed groups in the region.
• Historical Ties: Russia and Ukraine have a long history of cultural and economic ties, and the two countries were part of the Soviet Union until Ukraine gained independence in 1991. Russia has claimed that it has a duty to protect the rights of ethnic Russians in Ukraine, while Ukraine and other countries have accused Russia of using this as a pretext for its actions.
• Territorial expansion: The invasion of Ukraine and the annexation of Crimea were widely popular among the Russian population, and they helped to boost the popularity of Putin. His commanders had said, on record, that Russia wanted to take the whole of Ukraine’s east and south.

Present status of the ongoing war

• West arms Ukraine: The West has recently announced the supply of more advanced weapons to Ukraine, deepening its involvement in the conflict.
• Escalation towards nukes: As the war is extended, risks of a direct confrontation between Russia and the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) both nuclear powers, are also on the rise.

Russian advances

• Increased offensive: In response, Russian President Putin, has already reinforced positions along the 1,000-km long frontline in Ukraine with hundreds of thousands of troops.
• Suspending security alliances: It announced the suspension of his country’s participation in the New Start treaty, which could trigger a nuclear arms race.  

Who could win the war?

• Huge counter-offensive by Ukraine: Given the power asymmetry between Russia and Ukraine, Russian troops’ performance in the battlefield was underwhelming.
• No decisive victory for Russia: If one looks at Russia’s declared goals and what they have achieved in the 12 months of fighting, it’s not difficult to see that they are still far from meeting those objectives.

How has the West responded?

• The West’s approach has been two-fold:
• Punish Russia’s economy through sanctions
• Weaken the war machine  

Western support has played a critical part in Ukraine’s resistance by-

• Military aid by US: The US is Ukraine’s biggest aid provider — it has pledged military and financial assistance worth over $70 billion.  The EU has pledged $37 billion and among the EU countries, the UK and Germany top the list.
• Advanced weapons: West came to Ukraine’s rescue once again, with more advanced weapons, including missile defence systems, armoured vehicles, tank killers, battle tanks and precision bombs.  

How Russia is escaping Sanctions?

• Exploring alternative markets: Russia took a hit, but it found alternative markets for its energy exports in Asia, redrawing the global energy export landscape.
• Emerging energy giant: Despite sanctions, Russia raised its oil output by 2% and boosted oil export earnings by 20%, to $218 billion. Russia also raked in $138 billion from natural gas, a nearly 80% rise over 2021 — and this was in spite of the European push to cut gas imports from Russia.
• Growth forecasts by IMF: The Russian economy was estimated to have contracted by 2% in 2022, but, according to the IMF, it is expected to grow 0.3% this year and 2.1% next year.

Possibility for a negotiated settlement

• Grain initiative: In July, Turkey brokered a deal on taking out Russian and Ukrainian food grains through the Black Sea.
• Prisoners exchange: Warring parties had also reached some prisoner exchange agreements.

Issues needed to be addressed to stop this war

• For any peace plan to succeed, two complex issues should be addressed —
• Ukraine’s territories
• Russia’s security concerns

India’s subtle approach on the war

India’s tightrope walk on the Ukraine war has been described as “strategic ambivalence”. Its position has been articulated by its diplomats through several statements-

• Slight condemnation: The needle moved after the Bucha massacre in which innocent civilians were killed and India joined the western chorus in condemning the incident, and even asking for an international probe.
• Dint resent Russia: India had said it was “deeply disturbed”, but did not name Russia at all. Our PM took courage to tell Mr. Putin in a live conversation that “this is not an era of war”.
• Immediate cessation of violence and hostilities: India had maintained that cessation of hostilities is a broader term that is more permanent in nature, and had used it instead of a ceasefire— which is perceived as a narrow term.
• Shown respect for territorial integrity: It called for respect for “territorial integrity and sovereignty”, and respect for UN charter and international law.
• Advocating talks and diplomacy: It maintained that dialogue and diplomacy is the path forward. This has been Delhi’s prescription when it comes to its own border standoff as well.

Why is India siding away from Ukraine?

Ukraine should not try to moralize India’s stance over the ongoing war because-

• Ukraine blatantly condemned India’s nuclear tests of 1998.
• It had sold (rather donated) Pakistan T-80 tanks worth $650 mn during Kargil War.
• Ukraine voted several times against India at the UN over the nukes and rebutted India’s bid to get a permanent seat at UNSC.
• It has openly voiced for UN intervention in the Kashmir issue and holding a plebiscite on Pakistan’s terms.

Reasons behind India’s soft corner for Russia

• All-weather dependable partner: Russia is viewed as having been a sturdy friend of India’s going back to 1955, when Soviet premier Nikita Khrushchev publicly declared Moscow’s support for Indian claims over Jammu and Kashmir.
• Time-tested friendship: Moscow did not ally with or arm Pakistan against India; it supported New Delhi against U.S. pressure during the 1971 Indo-Pakistan war; and it has never criticized developments in Indian domestic politics, unlike the US.
• For permanent UNSC seat: India’s reluctance to denounce Russia, even when its actions are deemed objectionable and at times detrimental to India’s crucial interests, is strengthened by the need to maintain Russia’s support by respecting its veto power.
• Dependence for arms: India’s continuing dependence on Russia for military equipment only deepens its reluctance to alienate Moscow in any way. This aspect has received a shot in the arm since the war broke out.

Risks accompanying India’s ‘neutrality’

• Skewed neutrality: India’s positions expose the inconsistency in commitment to protecting the rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific over that in Europe.
• Sino-Russian growing affinity: Indian ambition to have Russia in its efforts to checkmate China may yet fail. It is rumored that China is helping its ‘iron brother’ Russia by sending some mercenary troops.

Conclusion

• There is little doubt that the Russian invasion of Ukraine has confronted India with difficult strategic choices.
• Consequently, its decision to avoid all public criticism of Moscow is, in the estimation of Indian policymakers, the best of the bad choices facing New Delhi

Attempt UPSC 2024 Smash Scholarship Test | FLAT* 100% OFF on UPSC Foundation & Mentorship programs

Get your Rs 10,000 worth of UPSC Strategic Package for FREE | PDFs, Zoom session, Tests, & Mentorship

Smash Prelims Super-25 Program is back after a thumping success in Prelims 2022. Out of 25 students Santosh sir has mentored, 23 cleared prelims last time. Our students were kind enough to take time out of their hectic Mains preparation and let us know how Santosh sir’s mentorship benefitted them in the exams.

---

Table of content:

1. About Smash Super 25 by Santosh sir
2. Structure of Super 25 program
3. Four pillars of Super 25
4. Approach of Super 25 program
5. Program Inclusion
6. What students told us about Santosh sir?
7. About Santosh sir

90% success rate in UPSC Prelims under this program

[slide-anything id=”699756″]

Why Your Focus for the Next 3 Months Must be About Scoring Above Cut-Off Marks in UPSC-CSE Prelims? Isn’t the last 1 Month Enough for This?

Every year, the competition for UPSC-CSE is increasing while vacancies are decreasing drastically. Total vacancies this year have been increased but you have to consider IRMS as well. This is why right now, it’s important to start having an Olympic Athlete mindset. You need to daily focus on scoring above the cut-off marks in your test series.

Civilsdaily Student and 2019 UPSC-CSE AIR 8 Topper Abhishek Saraf had practiced nearly 6000+ MCQs under us to clear prelims!

What makes prelims tough? It’s because the paper is unpredictable. If this year, science questions are a breeze then the next year you will have to answer advanced concept-based questions. Unlike Mains, Prelims has negative markings.

Toppers like Pranav Vijayvergiya (AIR 65) and Swati Sharma (AIR 17) have found Prelims to be tougher than Mains. In fact, Pranav failed to clear Prelims thrice. But, in his fourth attempt he took Civilsdaily mentorship and cleared Prelims, Mains and Interview in one shot!

Are you feeling low that you are unable to get the required cut-off marks in your test series. Worry not, for about 65% of the UPSC toppers have said that they scored below cut-off marks till December. But by June, they were able to boost their marks to get through the prelims hurdle. It’s time to be like them now. The two mentors allotted to you at Civilsdaily will discuss notes, sources, and test scores and even counsel you on your mental health.

How will Super-25 Program be structured?

We have neither diluted the criteria for selecting aspirants nor the core strategy. In fact, this year Super-25 will be a much more effective version of last year. 

Four Pillars of Super- 25 Program

1. It is a mentorship-led test series and value addition program over 90 days. 

2. Intensive Mentorship: You will have one dedicated mentor during the entire journey, in the form of Santosh Gupta sir. Santosh sir will give mentoring on a 1-1 basis. He will also be taking weekly zoom sessions. It would ensure that you do not fall back at any cost and benefit from the experience of two mentors who have cleared the exam 6 times. We will ensure that you achieve not your weekly targets but the target of clearing prelims. 

3. A number of tests: 60 practice tests (50 questions) + 40 Full-length tests ( 12 Basic + 6 advanced + 10 Current affairs tests + 8 FLTs+ 4 CSATs). It means every day you can give a test. With this, we will ensure that you revise your syllabus 3 times in three months at least. 

4. Current affairs: Entire Current affairs of 1.5 years ( Jan 2022 – April 2023) will be covered by Core faculty, comprising of Santosh sir, Sajal sir, Sukanya ma’am, and Dimple Ma’am. You will learn how to link current affairs with static topics on the go.

5. Strategic Value Addition Sessions: They say that a woodcutter sharpens his axe for 8 hours to cut 1 tree. This is the most popular session around taken by Santosh Gupta sir to enrich your knowledge base and analytical ability. 

Approach of Super-25

1. Keyword approach to revise syllabus of 1 subject in 2-3 hours.

2. Focus on FCE approach ( Factual, Conceptual and Elimination ) to enhance your score.

3. Critical gap filling sessions and notes, learning to link static with current affairs and vice versa.

4. Evidence based questions to ensure 360 degree testing.

5. Weekly monitoring of targets by dedicated mentor and your strategic mentor Santosh Gupta.  

How Super-25 will help you

1. Setting a clear strategy for the next 90 days to get 120+ score in Prelims.

2. Revising the whole syllabus in an effective manner.

2. Filling critical gaps in preparation.

4. Practice tests to enhance your chances of qualifying prelims.

5. Covering the entire current affairs from a prelims perspective.

Who can be part of the Super-25?

1. Only those who are struck in the range of 80-90 marks in last 2-3 attempts and are desperate to write mains.

2. Those who have given prelims at least once.

3. Those willing to give 100% or nothing less. 

There are no secrets to success, it is a result of preparation, hard work and learning from failure. Are you willing to learn from failures? Let’s start together. 

Program Inclusion

1. One to one Mentorship over a call and Weekly Zoom sessions
   • Make strategy – micro and macro for the remaining days till Prelims
   • Incorporate syllabus coverage, tets series, revision in it
   • Make sure you are executing the plan efficiently
2. 60 Tests
   • 12 Basic tests
   • 10 Current Affairs
   • 14 Practice tests
   • 6 Advanced
   • 8 Full-Length Tests
   • 4 CSAT tests
3. 50 Value additon classes and notes covering
   • Static syllabus linked with
   • Entire Current affairs of 1.5 years (Jan 2022 – April 2023)
4. Budget and Economy survey of 2023 (Handouts + Videos)
5. Strategic question-solving sessions – 500 Questions to be solved LIVE

Self Preparation with Mentorship: What do Civilsdaily Students think of Santosh Sir’s Mentorship for UPSC-CSE Prelims?

We asked Santosh sir’s students about their opinion on mentorship — if it was something that saved their time or wasted their time in studies and this is what they had to say:

Kamini: “If I can say in one word, then Santosh sir’s mentorship is unique. Before I joined his program, I used to score 90 marks in Full Length Test Series. Santhosh sir had done an depth analysis of my test papers and suggested ways to reduce the negatives. Right now I am able to score 100+ in advanced test series of not only Civilsdaily but other institutes. He is always available to clear my doubts and solve my issues on call or phone. No issue is too big enough for Santosh sir. He has always told me after you finish a test series, read the same topics again and take another test series the same day to see if your marks improve. From Santosh sir’s polity and economic survey notes, we got questions in the 2021 and 2022 Prelims. I always feel it’s better to do self-studies with mentorship than join coaching institutes and get spoon-fed with information.”

Sweetie Raj: “I am a banking professional, living with a joint family. Attending coaching classes is out of the question because I won’t have time to read the books myself. Santosh sir helps me self-study by providing me mentorship daily. I study daily from 9 PM to 3 AM. Santosh sir has been available for 1-hour strategy calls even during this time. No other teacher would have wanted me to succeed as much as he wants me to. I can understand concepts by myself and don’t need help in that. I want someone who pushes me to complete the target modules, checks if I did my mains answer writing for the day and analyses the previous year question papers with me. Because of Santosh sir, I understood that its just not enough reading one book but at the same time I dont have to waste time reading many books. He tells me the topic-wise sources to refer. Also he has designed a study plan for me that I can follow every week. Once, I told Santhosh sir I was missing test series discussion classes as it was conducted at 7PM. Immediately, he provided me recorded videos and kept the session at 8.30PM.”

Samples From Smash Super-25 Program

Sample 1-on-1 Mentorship for Smash Prelims

Sample Notes

Sample Test Series

Sample classes on CSAT & Topic Wise Analysis

Sample Notes & Handout Material

Toppers’ Speak: How Civilsdaily Mentorship Helped Me Clear UPSC?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DSwO38weHAA

About Santosh Gupta Sir

Santosh sir has scored above 140 twice in UPSC prelims and 120 plus in all 6 attempts. He has written all 6 mains and has appeared for Interviews 3 times. He has qualified for UPSC EPFO and BPSC 56-59th also. As the Prelims coordinator at Civilsdaily, he has helped 15 out of 25 students clear the prelims examination this year.

Context: Aero India 2023

• Being held under the theme – The runway to a billion opportunities – Aero India 2023 is seeing the participation of over a 100 countries.
• More than 700 exhibitors from India and abroad are taking part in the event.

The PM described Aero India as an example of India’s growing potential, saying it’s not only a show, but a reflection of India’s self-confidence and capabilities.

What is Aero India?

• Aero India is a biennial air show and aviation exhibition held in Bengaluru, India at the Yelahanka Air Force Station.
• It is organised by the Defence Exhibition Organisation, Ministry of Defence.
• The Aero India is the largest air show in Asia.
• It showcases India’s defence prowess and its capabilities in the aerospace sector.

Key highlights of Aero India:    Showcasing of domestic defence technologies

(1) India’s next-gen indigenous aircraft

India’s futuristic indigenous aircraft models which are in different stages of development showcased at Aero India 2023 included-

• 5th Generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft
• Naval Twin Engine Deck-based Fighter jet etc.
• LCA Mark2

(2) Light Combat Helicopter Prachand

• It is an Indian multi-role, light attack helicopter designed and manufactured by the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited under project LCH. It has been ordered by the Indian Air Force and the Indian Army. Its flight ceiling is the highest among all attack helicopters in the world.

(3) Jetpack Suits

• A model of a soldier wearing a jetpack being developed by an Indian start-up was inaugurated.
• The Indian Army has issued a tender to buy 48 jetpacks for troops deployed along the northern borders.

(4) Hindustan Lead in Fighter Trainer (HLFT)-42

• HLFT-42, is a project conceived by defence PSU Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
• It is the ‘Next Gen Supersonic Trainer’ will play a critical role in modern combat aircraft training.
• It is equipped with state-of-the-art avionics like Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA), Electronic Warfare (EW) Suite, Infrared Search and Track (IRST) with Fly By Wire control (FBW) system.

Significance of the event

• Biggest event in Asia: It is the biggest-ever event till date likely to witness the participation of 98 countries, the defence ministers of 32 countries, air chiefs of 29 countries and 73 chief executive officers of global and Indian original equipment manufacturers.
• Make in India push: The focus of Aero India-2023 this time will be on putting on display indigenous equipment/technologies and forging partnerships with foreign companies, in line with ‘Make in India, Make for the World’ vision.
• Showcased India’s manufacturing ability: The 2023 edition of Aero India showcases the country as a rising hub for manufacturing military equipment, military aircraft, helicopters and new-age avionics.
• Exchange of information: Aero India 2023 provided a unique opportunity for exchange of information, ideas and new technological developments in the aviation industry.
• Facilitation of CEOs meet: The big draw at Aero India is the ‘CEO’s Round Table’ which would allow the Ministry of Defence to showcase opportunities for global and domestic industry to invest in ‘Make in India’ initiatives.
• Defence collaboration: A Defence Ministers’ Conclave is hosted on February 14. Defence Ministers of friendly foreign countries participated in the meeting, which has been organised on the theme ‘Shared Prosperity through Enhanced Engagements in Defence (SPEED).’
• Huge investments received: The event witnessed the forging of 266 partnerships, including 201 memorandums of understanding, 53 major announcements, nine product launches and three transfers of technology (ToTs), worth around Rs 80,000 crore.
• Defence exports: Aero India is an example of the expanding capabilities of India. Many nations have extended their interests in- Light Combat Aircraft (LCA)-Tejas, HTT-40, Dornier Light Utility Helicopter (LUH), Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) and Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH),

How is India enhancing its defence prowess?

• Power projection: India has made significant strides in building its defence capabilities over the years. It has the world’s fourth-largest military, comprising of the Indian Army, Indian Navy, and the Indian Air Force, with over 1.4 million active personnel and approximately 2.4 million reserve personnel.
• Modernization of India’s defence equipment and technology: India has also been investing heavily in modernizing its defence equipment and technology to ensure the country’s national security.  Some of the major achievements of the DRDO include the development of the Agni series of ballistic missiles, the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, and the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft.
• Achievements in space technology: India has also made significant progress in the field of space technology, with the ISRO being a prominent player in the global space race. ISRO has successfully launched several satellites and is also involved in developing a manned spacecraft for future space missions.
• Multilateral defence collaborations: In recent years, India has also been actively pursuing collaborations with other countries to further enhance its defence capabilities. It has signed various defence deals with countries such as the United States, Russia, Israel, and France, among others, to procure advanced defence equipment, technology and to undertake joint military exercises.
• Realizing significance of maritime domain: India’s defence prowess also extends to its strong maritime capabilities, with the Indian Navy having a fleet of advanced warships, submarines, and maritime patrol aircraft. The Navy is also responsible for the safety and security of the Indian Ocean region, which is strategically important for the country.

(Click) FREE 1-to-1 on-call Mentorship by IAS-IPS officers | Discuss doubts, strategy, sources, and more

Why is defence a “strategic imperative” for India?

• Protecting the ‘Emerging Economy’:  A country known as the fifth largest economy of the world cannot afford to be largely dependent on big arms producing countries, especially in critical defence systems. India is able to withstand global uncertainty only because of its resilient economy.
• Global arms race: The Ukraine war has upended the global arms industry and the fast emerging Indian defence industry cannot afford to lag behind. In fact, as far as India is concerned, the Ukraine war is a stark reminder of the urgent need to reduce dependence on foreign suppliers for arms.
• Making sovereign decisions: As the Ukraine war created a dilemma before Indian policy planners to show their loyalty either to the US or Russia, the Indian government maintained neutrality and continued its cordial relationship with Russia.  This is by no means possible if India were at the helms of these nations.
• Geopolitical dynamics and its uncertainty: The example of the US withdrawing its technical support to Tarapur nuclear power plant in the 1970s had haunted the Indian leadership for long. The US also imposed sanctions on the transfer of dual use technologies to Indian entities. There is no guarantee that the US side will not stop technical or maintenance support to US-supplied weapon systems.
• Obsolesces of defence alliances: If India puts all its eggs in the Russian basket, it also cannot engage in the same manner with the US. Hence, Indian policy planners are working towards making India a defence production hub for major arms companies of the world.  
• Rising threats: In the current international scenario, security challenges to India are also mounting. From the Sino-Indian borders to high seas in the Indian Ocean and up to the South China Sea, India needs to be well equipped to defend its national economic and strategic interests. This can only be best served by self-reliance in defence, which will make India free from any strategic compulsions.
• Strategic autonomy: Defence prowess empowers the country with strategic autonomy, which becomes relevant in the times of any big international crisis. If India is self-reliant in defence systems, it would not be subject to domination/subjugation/manipulation by any country.

Way forward

By implementing these measures, India can move forward towards achieving self-reliance in defence, building a robust domestic defence industry and becoming a major player in the global defence industry.

• Encourage and support domestic defence production: The Indian government should continue to implement policies such as the Defence Production and Export Promotion Policy (DPEPP) and launch initiatives like the Defence Investor Cell and Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) to encourage and support domestic defence production. This will help reduce dependence on foreign suppliers and build a robust domestic defence industry.
• Foster innovation and research in emerging technologies: India should focus on fostering innovation and research in emerging technologies in defence, such as artificial intelligence and unmanned systems. This will enable the country to develop cutting-edge technologies and maintain a competitive edge in the global defence industry.
• Collaborate with other countries and build strategic partnerships: India should continue to build strategic partnerships with other countries in the defence industry, both in terms of exports and collaborations. This will help the country access new technologies, markets and build its reputation as a reliable partner.
• Invest in the education and skill development of the workforce: India should invest in the education and skill development of the workforce to build a strong talent pool in the defence industry. This will ensure that the country has the necessary skills and knowledge to develop and produce critical defence systems indigenously.

Attempt UPSC 2024 Smash Scholarship Test | FLAT* 100% OFF on UPSC Foundation & Mentorship programs

Get your Rs 10,000 worth of UPSC Strategic Package for FREE | PDFs, Zoom session, Tests, & Mentorship

Do you have the aptitude and mindset required to be an IAS-IPS-IFS? Get a reality check with 15,000+ aspirants!

---

Don’t know where you stand in the UPSC 2024 competition?

Get a reality check!

Toppers attempt this test 1.5 yrs before their actual prelims to know their level 0

10000+ aspirants are going to appear for India’s biggest UPSC Mock Test

Even before you start preparing for UPSC 2024, you should have a certain aptitude and bent of mind to be a worthy aspirant. Get a check on your current level and situational awareness wrt this exam.

• Date: 29th April 2023
• Timings: 9:30 am
• Answer Key Discussion: 1st May, 2023
• Duration for test: 2 hrs each
• Language: English
• Mode: Online
• Test Fee: FREE for all
• Syllabus: Very basic concepts which every IAS aspirant must be hands-on with and general current affairs. School-level concepts.

Admit cards will be released a day before the mock test.

What will you get post-test?

This test is going to be an eye-opener. It will reveal your current level and aptitude for UPSC 2024. This we call the base level or Level 0. After the test, our CivilsDaily’s strategic package will be made available to you for FREE.

You will also be qualified for CivilsDaily’s Smash Scholarship

The package will include a detailed test discussion, and a one-to-one mentorship call to highlight your weak areas and issues in preparation. A timetable and strategy will be shared with you and relevant Smash Program selected PDF notes will be shared for FREE.

CivilsDaily will assign a dedicated mentor for the post-test process. We will also connect you 1-1 with UPSC IAS rankers.

Upto 100% scholarship on CivilsDaily’s Foundation 2024 and other Mentorship Programs

In this article, we will discuss Operation Dost and India’s increasing profile as a first responder and net security provider.

Context

• On 6th of February, a massive earthquake struck southern Turkiye and Syria affecting millions of people in the region.
• Immediately on receiving news of this tragedy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi directed that all possible assistance be extended to the affected people.

What is Operation Dost?

• Operation Dost is an ongoing search and rescue operation initiated by India to aid Syria and Turkey, after the 2023 Turkey–Syria earthquake devastated both countries on 6 February 2023.
• The Indian Army prepared its rescue teams with relief materials within 12 hours after disaster struck (much before the Turkish Army was mobilised).

How swiftly did India respond?

• Rescue ops: The NDRF has already flown close to 100 rescue workers along with dog squads to help with efforts, using specialised CSSR (Collapsed Structure Search and Rescue) equipment and techniques.
• Doctors’ dispatch: A military medical contingent has set up a field hospital in Turkiye for a 30-bed facility and specials, x-ray machines, ventilators, generators and ambulances
• Relief material: About 25 Tonnes of relief material, protective gear, clothes, emergency medicines, medical items have already reached, more to follow
• Tech support: India provided Garuda Aerospace’s drones to the most affected areas to identify those trapped under rubble, along with modified Kisan drones carrying medications, food, and supplies.

Central Idea: HADR Diplomacy

• Disaster relief diplomacy, also known as Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) diplomacy, refers to a country’s efforts to provide aid and support to other countries affected by natural disasters or conflicts.
• This approach to diplomacy involves a country’s deployment of personnel, resources, and aid to provide assistance to those in need.
• It involves the sharing of expertise, resources, and knowledge to provide relief and support during times of crisis.

Features of HADR Diplomacy

• Multipronged approach: HADR diplomacy is typically a multilateral effort, involving partnerships between multiple countries, international organizations, and local authorities. This approach allows for a coordinated response to a disaster and promotes international cooperation.
• Capacity-building: HADR diplomacy involves building up a country’s capacity to provide assistance during times of crisis. This includes training personnel, acquiring equipment and supplies, and developing disaster response plans.
• Focus on vulnerable populations: HADR diplomacy is often focused on supporting vulnerable populations affected by disasters, such as women, children, the elderly, and those with disabilities.
• Long-term support: HADR diplomacy goes beyond immediate disaster relief efforts and often involves long-term support for affected communities. This can include rebuilding infrastructure, providing healthcare and education, and promoting economic recovery.
• Emphasis on communication and information sharing: HADR diplomacy involves effective communication and information sharing between different agencies, governments, and organizations. This is essential for coordinating a response to a disaster and ensuring that resources are used effectively.
• Respect for local culture and customs: HADR diplomacy involves an understanding and respect for local culture and customs. This helps ensure that relief efforts are culturally appropriate and sensitive to the needs of the affected population.

Why is it used?

• Soft power tool: It is mixed with solidarity and empathy at a time when suffering populations require as much help as possible.
• Building ties: Disaster relief diplomacy can be used to build strong ties between countries and promote international cooperation.
• Responsible global actor: Disaster relief diplomacy can also serve as a means to demonstrate a country’s commitment to global humanitarian efforts and help build its reputation as a responsible global actor.

India and HADR Diplomacy

• India’s humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) capacities tying into its diplomacy have grown significantly. It began after the 2011 Tsunami.
• The Quad was also conceived out of an initial blueprint to build disaster response systems in the region.

Instances of India sending aid to natural disaster-hit countries

• Maldives: After the 2004 Tsunami, the Indian government announced a composite package worth five crore rupees. Under “Operation Castor”, 50 sorties were undertaken and four aircraft and two Naval ships were engaged in relief operations. Repairing and restoring generators and communication, providing drinking water, and setting up medical camps on ships was also done.
• Sri Lanka: India sent its forces to carry out rescue operations, called “Operation Rainbow”, in Sri Lanka hours after the Tsunami struck the country on December 26, 2004. Not only this, India provided medical assistance to thousands of victims by setting up medical camps in coordination with the local civil and military health authorities. Preventative medication and vaccines were also supplied.
• Myanmar: When cyclone Nargis hit Myanmar in 2008 killing at least 20,000 people, India was among the first countries to send aid to them. It gave 125.5 tonnes of relief material, including medicines, clothing, utensils, water tanks, tents and tarpaulin.
• Japan: The 2011 Tsunami wreaked havoc in Japan. Apart from providing relief materials, India also sent 46 members of the NDRF to search and rescue in the town of Onagawa. It was their first overseas operation. The team included a doctor, three officers, six inspectors, two paramedics and constables and carried 9,000 kg of equipment and food.
• Nepal: In the aftermath of the 2015 Nepal earthquakes, the NDRF deployed 16 of its urban search and rescue (USAR) teams, which comprised more than 700 rescuers in the country. They rescued 11 injured persons and retrieved 133 dead bodies from the rubble. The teams also organised six medical camps and attended to 1,219 persons. Indian authorities sent more than 1,176 tonnes of relief materials to Nepal.

India’s traditional rivalry with Turkiye

Ankara’s long-standing stance on Kashmir and backing Pakistan, especially at the United Nations (UN), pushed some to ask why India was offering aid if Turkiye did not back India’s sovereignty.

Setting differences aside, why is India helping Turkey?

• In the case of India providing earthquake relief to Turkey, there are several factors that likely influenced India’s decision:
• Humanitarian considerations: The primary reason for providing assistance in times of disaster is to help those in need, regardless of political or strategic considerations. The earthquake in Turkey was a humanitarian crisis, and India likely felt compelled to provide assistance to help alleviate the suffering of those affected.
• Diplomatic reset: Disaster relief efforts can also serve as a means of promoting diplomatic relations between countries. By providing aid to Turkey, India may have been seeking to build goodwill and improve its relationship with the country.
• Shared interests: Despite past disagreements and conflicts, India and Turkey share some common history, culture and interests such as economic and strategic ties. Providing aid to Turkey may have been a way for India to demonstrate its commitment to these shared interests.
• International reputation: As a rising global power, India likely sees disaster relief efforts as a means of demonstrating its commitment to global humanitarian efforts and building its international reputation. By providing HADR, India has established itself as a responsible global actor.
• Cultural and people-to-people ties: India and Turkey share cultural and historical ties, with both countries having a rich cultural heritage. Ex. Ankara granting e-visa facilities to Indian tourists and Bollywood films being popular among Turkish masses.

While past conflicts and disagreements may influence international relations, countries often engage in aid and diplomatic efforts with countries they may have had past grievances with for a variety of reasons.

Diplomatically, what did India gain?

• Bilateral ties reset: In this case, India’s assistance to Turkiye comes at a time when ties are still tense- particularly over unwarranted Turkish statements and aids to radicalists in Kashmir.
• Global responder image: Especially in the year of India’s G20 presidency, India’s assistance burnishes its image as a leader of the developing world.
• Military capability on display: This disaster portrayed India’s swift response to rescue operations by mobilizing transporters, field hospitals, and technical teams within hours. It somehow portrays India’s preparedness for War.
• Improves response time: Op dost would help India with future calamities in India or anywhere in the world.
• Economic benefits: India’s HADR diplomacy has also brought economic benefits to the country. By providing aid and support to other countries, India has developed trade and economic relationships, and gained access to new markets and resources.

How can Turkiye benefit from this?

• Preferring India over appeasing Pakistan: It is becoming increasingly obvious that Turkey is getting disenchanted with Pakistan by and by, the most important factor behind its animosity towards India. The number of illegal Pakistanis.
• Battling domestic economic crisis: Turkey, which is undergoing a big economic crisis with historically high inflation of 80 percent, has to be pragmatic, not ideological, so as to win more friends than foes.
• Attracting more Indian tourists: Indians are now the third-largest Asian tourists in Turkey after China and Indonesia. Indian businesses, from food to technology, have been gradually expanding their presence in Turkey.
• Rebuking its ideals of Khilafat: Turkey perhaps realizes now its failure to emerge as the leader a grouping consisting of Pakistan, Malaysia, Iran, and Qatar, in an attempt to break Saudi and UAE’s ideological supremacy within the Islamic world.
• Rebuilding ties with Israel: Turkey re-established diplomatic relations with Israel after more than a decade of tensions that erupted in 2010 when Israeli commandos killed 10 Turkish activists in Gaza. India can help them come closer.

Conclusion

• Providing relief and aid to not just neighboring, but in the extended neighborhood of West Asia bodes well for the kind of diplomacy India is aiming to conduct in the future.
• Public diplomacy, such as HADR capacities, remains one of the most effective tools to build capacities on a people-to-people level, conduct of which needs to be done in a humble way.

Attempt UPSC 2024 Smash Scholarship Test | FLAT* 100% OFF on UPSC Foundation & Mentorship programs

Get your Rs 10,000 worth of UPSC Strategic Package for FREE | PDFs, Zoom session, Tests, & Mentorship