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In a country as culturally and regionally diverse as India, it has often been noticed that a considerable number of bright students are either sceptical or don’t opt for the Engineering degree in college for the fear and apprehension of not understanding the English language effortlessly.
Who are Engineers, btw?
Engineers are people who solve problems and focus on making things work more efficiently and effectively.
They apply the theories and principles of science and mathematics to research and develop economical solutions to technical problems.
Their work is the link between perceived social needs and commercial applications.
Engineering in Regional Languages
In total14 Engineering Colleges in the country will now begin to offer various courses in regional languages.
These colleges have secured permission from the All-India Council of Technical Education (AICTE) to collectively admit over 1,000 students in UG programmes that will be taught in regional languages.
Why debate this issue?
It’s been a subject matter of debate ever since the proposal was made for technical education in regional languages.
We shall talk about the potential challenges that students of these courses could face in their education ahead and careers.
Regional languages for the courses
At least half of them, four from Uttar Pradesh, two from Rajasthan and one each from Madhya Pradesh and Uttarakhand will teach in Hindi.
The remaining colleges from Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, West Bengal and Tamil Nadu will offer the programme in Telugu, Marathi, Bengali and Tamil, respectively.
Criteria for the colleges
The AICTE has put very stringent conditions on those aiming to launch the courses.
The colleges need to be accredited by the National Board of Accreditation (NBA) and should be among top ranked in their respective states.
They can start with either the batch size of 30 or 60. The priority would be granted to autonomous institutions fulfilling all the criteria.
They would have an option to either appoint another set of teachers who can teach in regional languages or train the existing ones, which would be much easier.
Benefits offered by the move
Language promotion: This move will promote regional language as the mode of delivering education.
Breaking the regional divide: High school dropout has been mainly caused by consistent failure to clear English language paper in India. The move would help aspirants, particularly from rural and tribal areas, to realize their dreams.
Better learning: Learning in their mother tongue helps the students to grasp the fundamentals more readily. It improves the cognitive abilities of students and also boosts their self-confidence.
Ensuring equal opportunity: This step will ensure that no students face discrimination in higher education institutes due to the language barrier.
Skill development: Vernacular language when combined with skill development helps develop professionals who can transform the country from the grassroots.
Technology solutions: At job level the engineers often have to deal with the workers in regional languages so it will be an added advantage.
Major challenges
Imparting technical education in one’s mother tongue can be a challenging task at the initial stage because of multiple reasons.
Strict criteria: The criterion laid by the AICTE are somewhat difficult for institutions to acquire in short span of time.
Curriculum translation: Making study material available in regional languages is toughest challenge. There had been no attempt in the past to translate engineering subjects (quiet often authored by foreign authors).
Faculty issues: The teachers must have a strong command over their mother tongue and must have the ability to easily communicate in the same language that they are teaching. This cannot be achieved overnight at such a short notice.
Limited domain: The option, however, would be available for undergraduate courses and is limited for traditional branches like mechanical, engineering, civil, electrical and others. It is impossible to practice software coding in regional languages.
Employability challenges: There is a big question that arises regarding their employability in the era of globalization. It has been observed that many companies prefer hiring individuals with English speaking skills irrespective of their academic performance.
Various moves by AICTE
AICTE has been constantly putting in all the necessary efforts to make this move successful and hassle-free for students and institutions.
They are offering course materials in all the above-mentioned regional languages and are translating courses taught under the Swayam platform.
They are also appointing a new set of teachers who have a stronghold in regional languages and can teach in the same without difficulty.
It has also been decided that the examinations will be conducted in the language preferred by the student.
The institutions have also been advised to make the necessary provisions for compulsory graded courses in English to make sure that the students are good with the language before they enter the corporate world.
Feasibility check: Good or Bad Decision?
(1) English offers more ease
Countries like Germany, Japan, China are homogenous societies (speaking one language mostly) and secondly, India cannot be equated with them. India is entire Europe.
Even in these homogeneous societies, many institutions have started moving to English now, seeing the disadvantages they are facing.
They are learning from us. Not sure if there is an equivalent of India in the world. India is Europe, roughly in terms of languages or land area.
(2) English no more a barrier
India has produced C V Ramans, J C Boses, Meghanad Sahas earlier. It has also produced institution builders such as Bhabhas, Ramannas and Bhatnagars.
Why aren’t we producing people of this calibre right now? Evolution wise, people are only becoming better.
We have brought in so much of bureaucracy into our systems and almost all leadership and Innovation gets scuttled at every stage.
(3) Limits of the knowledge pool
IIT education involves integration of a lot of research and open study materials.
Students have to read various other books and reference materials which come in English.
Offering complete BTech and masters courses in local languages will deprive the students of a vast amount of resource material available in English.
(4) Reforms in vernac school education are long overdue
Many state run primary , secondary and higher schools are on the edge of their perish.
This is equally true in terms of the quality of education imparted in such schools.
It is ironical and distant to dream for UG courses in local languages where the state of school educations is poor.
Way forward
The move offers everyone an equal opportunity.
Every child who does schooling in local languages must have an opportunity to take JEE Main and JEE Advanced in their local language.
JEE Advanced must be conducted in all local languages, where there is a demand.
We need to free up our educational institutions from bureaucratic controls and create competition among them by also providing them autonomy.
Autonomy and Competition need to go hand in hand.
Need of the hour: Curriculum transformation
One of our problems is that, we have never connected our institutions and never engaged them to solve problems of the society/country.
The less practical syllabus has to do away for more real life applications of engineering.
So it’s the overall system in the country to blame for our plight and not our educational institutions or instruction in English.
Conclusion
Overall, it’s a welcome step that is going to enhance the learning outcome which is very important as per the vision of new education policy.
Dr A P J Abdul Kalam truly believed that science education should be imparted to students in vernacular language to nurture creativity and help them understand the subject easily.
However, multidisciplinary institutions and autonomy, as articulated in NEP, are the need of the hour.
Note: In GS Paper 2, 17 out of 20 Questions asked in UPSC 2020, were already covered at Samachar Manthan. And the entire GS paper 3 was covered in Samachar Manthan that makes for an approximate 85% Success rate.
Current Affairs is the heart and soul of the UPSC exam. UPSC ties dynamic Current Affairs topics with static knowledge to test aspirants at all three stages of the exam. A thorough grasp of CA is, therefore, extremely crucial to your success. That is why we, at CivilsDaily, have consolidated all the important aspects of CA in Samachar Manthan so that you don’t have to browse through thousands of study materials to be on top of your game. Samachar Manthan is the essence of all you need, in one place. Right here!
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3. Membership to Samachar Manthan Habitat club – doubts, discussion, and mentorship session.
4. Weekly Current Affairs based Mains Test (10 Questions) and Evaluation
5. Current Affairs Monthly Prelims Test package
6. Marathon Revision sessions on Habitat before Prelims and Mains
7. Frequent Google meet Sessions to check on Student’s Preparation status
8. Micro notes to help you make your notes.
Now, let’s take a look at the below-mentioned GS Paper 2 paper of 2020, question by question.
UPSC Mains Question
Q.) “Recent amendments to the Right to Information Act will have a profound impact on the autonomy and independence of the Information Commission”. Discuss
SM weekly Test Question
Q) Right to Information Act is considered one of the milestones in Indian democracy. In the context of real representation that RTI provided to the public authorities, examine how far the recent amendments may breach the actual contention of the RTI Act?
UPSC Mains Question
Q.) Which steps are required for the constitutionalization of a commission? Do you think imparting constitutionality to the National Commission for Women would ensure greater gender justice and empowerment in India? Give reasons. (Answer in 250 words)
SM weekly Test Question
Q) Seeing the Patriarchal nature of society the Indian Parliament came up with the legislation in the form of the National Commission for Women to work for the betterment of the female section of the society. In such a context, critically analyse the effectiveness of NCW at present. Also, suggest measures to make it work effectively.
UPSC Mains Questions
Q.) How far do you think cooperation, competition and confrontation have shaped the nature of federation in India? Cite some recent examples to validate your answer (Answer in 150 words)
SM weekly Test Question
Q) Explain the difference between Competitive vs Cooperative federalism. In the Indian context, what have been the hindrances in achieving competitive federalism. What should be the solution?
UPSC Mains Question
Q.) Rajya Sabha has been transformed from a ‘useless Stepney tyre’ to the most useful supporting organ in the past few decades. Highlight the factors as well as the areas in which this transformation could be visible. (Answer in 250 words)
SM weekly Test Question
Q) How far do you agree with the view that Rajya Sabha has done nothing exceptional in the last 70 years except stalling work and therefore it should be abolished? (10 Marks)
UPSC Mains question
Q.) Indian constitution exhibits centralising tendencies to maintain the unity and integrity of the nation. Elucidate in the perspective of the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897; The Disaster Management Act, 2005 and recently passed Farm Acts. (Answer in 250 words)
SM weekly Test Question
Q) The Centre has got more powers to raise the resources and states were given more responsibilities. Examine how this dichotomy came under serious scrutiny in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic. (10 marks)
UPSC Mains Question
Q.) Judicial Legislation is antithetical to the doctrine of separation of powers as envisaged in the Indian Constitution. This context justifies the filing of a large number of public interest petitions praying for issuing guidelines to executive authorities. (Answer in 250 words)
SM weekly Test Question
Q) How far do you agree that the recent judgements pronounced by the supreme court of India border on Judicial overreach. Elaborate with Examples
UPSC Mains Questions
Q.) The strength & sustenance of local institutions in India has shifted from their formative phase of ‘Functions, Functionaries and Funs’ to the contemporary stage of ‘Functionality’. Highlight the critical challenges faced by local institutions in terms of their functionality in recent times. (Answer in 250 words)
SM weekly Test Question
Q) “Panchayati raj institutions (PRIs) are simultaneously a remarkable success and a staggering failure”. Critically analyze. (10 marks)
UPSC Mains Question
Q.) “Once a speaker, Always a speaker’! Do you think the practise should be adopted to impart objectivity to the office of the Speaker of Lok Sabha? What could be its implications for the robust functioning of parliamentary business in India? (Answer in 150 words)
SM weekly Test Question
Q) Discuss the controversies surrounding the office of the speaker in India. Suggest measures to make the office of speaker impartial and independent. Should it be modelled on the lines of the office of a British speaker? (15)
UPSC Mains question
Q.) The judicial systems in India and the UK seem to be converging as well as diverging in recent times. Highlight the key points of convergence and divergence between the two nations in terms of their judicial practices. (Answer in 150 words)
SM weekly Test Question
Q) Topic Was discussed in the third week of December in our Samachar Manthan lecture
Q.) “Micro-Finance as an anti-poverty vaccine, is aimed at asset creation and income security of the rural poor in India”. Evaluate the role of Self-Help Groups in achieving the twin objectives along with empowering women in rural India. (Answer in 250 words)
SM weekly Test Question
Q) In the context of SHGs in India, explain how they can benefit the ongoing pandemic. Also, suggest measures to make them more effective and empowered. (10 marks)
UPSC Mains Question
Q.) “Institutional quality is a crucial driver of economic performance”. This context suggests reforms in Civil Service for strengthening democracy.
SM weekly Test Question
Q) Despite being the pivot of Indian democracy, the civil services have performed rather poorly when it comes to administering the routine. Discuss.
Q.) National Education Policy 2020 conforms with the Sustainable Development Goal-4 (2030). It intends to restructure and reorient the education system in India. Critically examine the statement. (Answer in 250 words)
SM weekly Test Question
Q) “The New Education Policy is an old wine in a new glass”. Do you agree with this view? Examine. (15 marks)
UPSC Mains Question
Q.) The emergence of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Digital Revolution) has initiated e-Governance as an integral part of the government”. Discuss. (Answer in 150 words)
SM weekly Test Question
Q) Digitising India could accelerate its progress towards development but certain factors must be addressed before India could reap the benefits of digitising. Examine such factors and suggest ways to deal with the issues in digitising the country. (10)
UPSC Mains Question
Q.) “The incidence and intensity of poverty are more important in determining poverty based on income alone”. In this context analyze the latest United Nations Multidimensional Poverty Index Report. (Answer in 250 words)
SM weekly Test Question
Q) Multidimensional Poverty Index is a measure to assess acute poverty in multiple dimensions. In this respect, state how poverty is leading to a loss in Human development and thus making the population a liability than an asset. (15 marks)
UPSC Mains question
Q.) To enhance the prospects of social development, sound and adequate health care policies are needed particularly in the fields of geriatric and maternal health care. Discuss. (Answer in 150 words)
SM weekly Test Question
Q) Discuss how marriage age and women’s health are linked with each other?
UPSC Mains questions
Q.) ‘Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD)’ is the transforming itself into a trade bloc from a military alliance, in present times – Discuss. (Answer in 250 words)
SM weekly Test Question
Q) A revival and re-invigoration of the Quad are called for to maintain peace and tranquillity in the Indo-pacific region. Examine. (10)
UPSC Mains Question
Q.) Critically examine the role of WHO in providing global health security during the COVID-19 pandemic. (Answer in 150 words)
SM weekly Test Question
Q) The global institutional architecture of the 1940s cannot help humanity face the challenges of the 2020s. Discuss. (10)
UPSC Mains Question
Q.) What is the significance of Indo-US defence deals over Indo-Russian defence deals? Discuss with reference to stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (Answer in 250 words)
SM weekly Test Question
Q) India is witnessing increased variety in its bilateral/multilateral defence partnerships. Despite this, Russia remains an important ally. Analyse. (15 marks)
UPSC Mains Question
Q.) ‘Indian diaspora has a decisive role to play in the politics and economy of America and European Countries’. Comment with examples. (Answer in 150 words)
Extensively discussed and covered as Burning Issue and SM weekly Video Classes.
16/20 Questions asked in UPSC 2020 GS paper 3 were covered in Samachar Manthan. (85 per cent success rate)
UPSC Question
Q.) Define potential GDP and explain its determinants. What are the factors that have been inhibiting India from realizing its potential GDP? (Answer in 150 words)10
SM Weekly test
Q.) Among several factors for India’s potential growth, at this moment, government expenditure is the most effective one. Do you agree? What are the impediments to increasing Government expenditure? (10 marks)
UPSC Question
Q.) Explain the meaning of investment in an economy in terms of capital formation. Discuss the factors to consider while designing a concession agreement between a public and a private entity. (Answer in 250 words) 15
SM weekly test
Q12. What are the different models of PPP? How has been India’s experience so far with PPP? What are the changes required to make it more efficient? (15)
UPSC Question
How CivilsDaily IAS made an evidence-based content selection, which resulted in an 85 per cent alignment of the actual mains paper with the Samachar Manthan course? Presenting GS Mains II Paper Analysis.
Current Affairs is the heart and soul of the UPSC exam. UPSC ties dynamic Current Affairs topics with static knowledge to test aspirants at all three stages of the exam. A thorough grasp of CA is, therefore, extremely crucial to your success. That is why we, at Civils Daily, have consolidated all the important aspects of CA in Samachar Manthan so that you don’t have to browse through thousands of study materials to be on top of your game. Samachar Manthan is the essence of all you need, in one place. Right here!
In GS Paper 2, 17 out of 20 Questions were asked in UPSC 2020. And the entire GS paper 2 was covered in Samachar Manthan that makes for an 85% Success rate. Let’s take a look at the below mentioned GS Paper 2 paper of 2020, question by question.
UPSC Mains Question
Q.) “Recent amendments to the Right to Information Act will have a profound impact on the autonomy and independence of the Information Commission”. Discuss
SM weekly Test Question
Q) Right to Information Act is considered one of the milestones in Indian democracy. In the context of real representation that RTI provided to the public authorities, examine how far the recent amendments may breach the actual contention of the RTI Act?
UPSC Mains Question
Q.) Which steps are required for the constitutionalization of a commission? Do you think imparting constitutionality to the National Commission for Women would ensure greater gender justice and empowerment in India? Give reasons. (Answer in 250 words)
SM weekly Test Question
Q) Seeing the Patriarchal nature of society the Indian Parliament came up with the legislation in the form of the National Commission for Women to work for the betterment of the female section of the society. In such a context, critically analyse the effectiveness of NCW at present. Also, suggest measures to make it work effectively.
UPSC Mains Questions
Q.) How far do you think cooperation, competition and confrontation have shaped the nature of federation in India? Cite some recent examples to validate your answer (Answer in 150 words)
SM weekly Test Question
Q) Explain the difference between Competitive vs Cooperative federalism. In the Indian context, what have been the hindrances in achieving competitive federalism. What should be the solution?
UPSC Mains Question
Q.) Rajya Sabha has been transformed from a ‘useless Stepney tyre’ to the most useful supporting organ in the past few decades. Highlight the factors as well as the areas in which this transformation could be visible. (Answer in 250 words)
SM weekly Test Question
Q) How far do you agree with the view that Rajya Sabha has done nothing exceptional in the last 70 years except stalling work and therefore it should be abolished? (10 Marks)
UPSC Mains question
Q.) Indian constitution exhibits centralising tendencies to maintain the unity and integrity of the nation. Elucidate in the perspective of the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897; The Disaster Management Act, 2005 and recently passed Farm Acts. (Answer in 250 words)
SM weekly Test Question
Q) The Centre has got more powers to raise the resources and states were given more responsibilities. Examine how this dichotomy came under serious scrutiny in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic. (10 marks)
UPSC Mains Question
Q.) Judicial Legislation is antithetical to the doctrine of separation of powers as envisaged in the Indian Constitution. This context justifies the filing of a large number of public interest petitions praying for issuing guidelines to executive authorities. (Answer in 250 words)
SM weekly Test Question
Q) How far do you agree that the recent judgements pronounced by the supreme court of India border on Judicial overreach. Elaborate with Examples
UPSC Mains Questions
Q.) The strength & sustenance of local institutions in India has shifted from their formative phase of ‘Functions, Functionaries and Funs’ to the contemporary stage of ‘Functionality’. Highlight the critical challenges faced by local institutions in terms of their functionality in recent times. (Answer in 250 words)
SM weekly Test Question
Q) “Panchayati raj institutions (PRIs) are simultaneously a remarkable success and a staggering failure”. Critically analyze. (10 marks)
UPSC Mains Question
Q.) “Once a speaker, Always a speaker’! Do you think the practise should be adopted to impart objectivity to the office of the Speaker of Lok Sabha? What could be its implications for the robust functioning of parliamentary business in India? (Answer in 150 words)
SM weekly Test Question
Q) Discuss the controversies surrounding the office of the speaker in India. Suggest measures to make the office of speaker impartial and independent. Should it be modelled on the lines of the office of a British speaker? (15)
UPSC Mains question
Q.) The judicial systems in India and the UK seem to be converging as well as diverging in recent times. Highlight the key points of convergence and divergence between the two nations in terms of their judicial practices. (Answer in 150 words)
SM weekly Test Question
Q) Topic Was discussed in the third week of December in our Samachar Manthan lecture
Q.) “Micro-Finance as an anti-poverty vaccine, is aimed at asset creation and income security of the rural poor in India”. Evaluate the role of Self-Help Groups in achieving the twin objectives along with empowering women in rural India. (Answer in 250 words)
SM weekly Test Question
Q) In the context of SHGs in India, explain how they can benefit the ongoing pandemic. Also, suggest measures to make them more effective and empowered.
Q.) “Institutional quality is a crucial driver of economic performance”. This context suggests reforms in Civil Service for strengthening democracy.
SM weekly Test Question
Q) Despite being the pivot of Indian democracy, the civil services have performed rather poorly when it comes to administering the routine. Discuss. (10)
UPSC Mains Question
Q.) National Education Policy 2020 conforms with the Sustainable Development Goal-4 (2030). It intends to restructure and reorient the education system in India. Critically examine the statement. (Answer in 250 words)
SM weekly Test Question
Q) “The New Education Policy is an old wine in a new glass”. Do you agree with this view? Examine. (15 marks)
UPSC Mains Question
Q.) The emergence of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Digital Revolution) has initiated e-Governance as an integral part of a government”. Discuss. (Answer in 150 words)
SM weekly Test Question
Q) Digitising India could accelerate its progress towards development but certain factors must be addressed before India could reap the benefits of digitising. Examine such factors and suggest ways to deal with the issues in digitising the country. (10)
UPSC Mains Question
Q.) “The incidence and intensity of poverty are more important in determining poverty based on income alone”. In this context analyze the latest United Nations Multidimensional Poverty Index Report. (Answer in 250 words)
SM weekly Test Question
Q) Multidimensional Poverty Index is a measure to assess acute poverty in multiple dimensions. In this respect, state how poverty is leading to a loss in Human development and thus making the population a liability than an asset. (15 marks)
UPSC Mains question
Q.) In order to enhance the prospects of social development, sound and adequate health care policies are needed particularly in the fields of geriatric and maternal health care. Discuss. (Answer in 150 words)
SM weekly Test Question
Q) Discuss how marriage age and women’s health are linked with each other?
UPSC Mains questions
Q.) ‘Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD)’ is the transforming itself into a trade bloc from a military alliance, in present times – Discuss. (Answer in 250 words)
SM weekly Test Question
Q) A revival and re-invigoration of the Quad are called for to maintain peace and tranquillity in the Indo-pacific region. Examine. (10)
UPSC Mains Question
Q.) Critically examine the role of WHO in providing global health security during the COVID-19 pandemic. (Answer in 150 words)
SM weekly Test Question
Q) The global institutional architecture of the 1940s cannot help humanity face the challenges of the 2020s. Discuss. (10)
UPSC Mains Question
Q.) What is the significance of Indo-US defence deals over Indo-Russian defence deals? Discuss with reference to stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (Answer in 250 words)
SM weekly Test Question
Q) India is witnessing increased variety in its bilateral/multilateral defence partnerships. Despite this, Russia remains an important ally. Analyse. (15 marks)
UPSC Mains Question
Q.) ‘Indian diaspora has a decisive role to play in the politics and economy of America and European Countries’. Comment with examples. (Answer in 150 words)
Extensively discussed and covered as Burning Issue and SM weekly Video Classes.
16/20 Questions asked in UPSC 2020 GS paper 3 were covered in Samachar Manthan. (85 per cent success rate)
UPSC Question
Q) Define potential GDP and explain its determinants. What are the factors that have been inhibiting India from realizing its potential GDP? (Answer in 150 words)10
SM Weekly test
Q) Among several factors for India’s potential growth, at this moment, government expenditure is the most effective one. Do you agree? What are the impediments to increasing Government expenditure?
UPSC Question
Q) Explain the meaning of investment in an economy in terms of capital formation. Discuss the factors to consider while designing a concession agreement between a public and a private entity. (Answer in 250 words) 15
SM weekly test
Q) What are the different models of PPP? How has been India’s experience so far with PPP? What are the changes required to make it more efficient?
UPSC Question
Q.) Explain the rationale behind the Goods and Services Tax (Compensation to States) Act of 2017. How has COVID-19 impacted the GST compensation fund and created new federal tensions? (Answer in 250 words) 15
SM Weekly test
Q.) The Goods and Service Tax has been a grand bargain in cooperative federalism. But the issue of GST compensation to the States in the aftermath of lockdown threatens this achievement in federalism. In light of this, explain the issue of compensation and suggest the ways to deal with it.
UPSC Question
Q) What are the main constraints in the transport and marketing of agricultural produce in India? (Answer in 150 words)10
SM Weekly test
Q.) The APMC Act has been blamed for poor price realisation by the farmers. Recently announced reforms promise to do away with such issues in the APMC Act. In light of this, examine the issues with APMC Acts and how the promised reforms are expected to resolve such issues.”
UPSC Question
Q) What are the challenges and opportunities of the food processing sector in the country? How can the income of the farmers be substantially increased by encouraging food processing? (Answer in 150 words)10
SM Weekly test
Q) India is one of the biggest food producing hubs in the world but recently the food processing industry in India is not showing the desired results. Write a note on the challenges being faced by the food processing industry in India. Also, suggest the measures needed to revamp the food processing sector?
UPSC Question
Q) Suggest measures to improve water storage and irrigation system to make its judicious use under depleting scenarios. (Answer in 250 words) 15
SM Weekly test
Q) What do you understand by micro-irrigation? Discuss its importance to a country like India?
UPSC Question
Q) Discuss different types of cybercrimes and measures required to be taken to fight the menace
Q) As “Digital India” grows, cybersecurity vulnerabilities will increase too. In this context, critically analyse India’s cybersecurity capabilities. (15 marks)
UPSC Question
Q) What are the determinants of left-wing extremism in the Eastern part of India? What strategy should the Government of India, civil administration and security forces adopt to counter the threat in the affected areas? (Answer in 250 words) 15
SM weekly test
Q.) The Government of India has adopted an integrated and holistic approach to deal with the Left Wing Extremist (LWE) insurgency. In this context, discuss the challenges while dealing with this internal security in India. Critically analyse the steps are taken by India to curb this menace. (15)
UPSC Question
Q) What do you understand about nanotechnology and how is it helping in the health sector? (Answer in 150 words)10
Q) Nanotechnology is a pathbreaking technology that can create many new materials and devices with a wide range of applications, such as in nanomedicine, nanoelectronics etc. Discuss? (10)
UPSC Question
Q) How is science interwoven deeply with our lives? What are the striking changes in agriculture triggered off by science-based technologies? (Answer in 150 words)10
SM Weekly test
Q.) Examine how India should use breakthroughs in biotechnology and genetic engineering for achieving the goal of low-input, high-output agriculture which is a prerequisite for doubling farmers’ income.
UPSC Question
How does the draft Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2020 differ from the existing EIA Notification, 2006? (Answer in 150 words)10
SM Weekly test
Q.) The debate around development and environmental conservation has always been more tilted towards the development side at the cost of the environment. In such a scenario, critically analyse the amendments in the Environment Impact Assessment.
UPSC Question
Describe the benefits of deriving electric energy from sunlight in contrast to conventional energy generation. What are the initiatives offered by our Government for this purpose? (Answer in 250 words) 15
SM Weekly test
Q.) What are the advantages of Lithium-ion batteries that make them most suitable for e-vehicles and other devices? Examine India’s technological and manufacturing capabilities in this crucial product.
UPSC Question
Q) What are the key features of the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) initiated by the Government of India? (Answer in 250 words) 15
SM Weekly test
Q) Discuss key features of the National clean air program? Will it be able to solve the problem of air pollution in India. Critically examine?
UPSC Question
Q) What are the salient features of the Jal Shakti Abhiyan launched by the Government of India for water conservation and water security? (Answer in 150 words)10
SM Weekly test
Q.) In a world driven by climate change, water has become crucial as a public resource. In the light of this, discuss how Jal Jeevan Mission will bring some respite in the lives of people in general and rural areas in particular.
SM Weekly test
Q.) The Goods and Service Tax has been a grand bargain in cooperative federalism. But the issue of GST compensation to the States in the aftermath of lockdown threatens this achievement in federalism. In light of this, explain the issue of compensation and suggest the ways to deal with it.
UPSC Question
Q.) What are the main constraints in the transport and marketing of agricultural produce in India? (Answer in 150 words)10
SM Weekly test
Q.) The APMC Act has been blamed for poor price realisation by the farmers. Recently announced reforms promise to do away with such issues in the APMC Act. In light of this, examine the issues with APMC Acts and how the promised reforms are expected to resolve such issues.”
UPSC Question
Q.) What are the challenges and opportunities of the food processing sector in the country? How can the income of the farmers be substantially increased by encouraging food processing? (Answer in 150 words)10
SM Weekly test
Q.) India is one of the biggest food producing hubs in the world but recently the food processing industry in India is not showing the desired results. Write a note on the challenges being faced by the food processing industry in India. Also, suggest the measures needed to revamp the food processing sector?
UPSC Question
Q.) Suggest measures to improve water storage and irrigation system to make its judicious use under depleting scenarios. (Answer in 250 words) 15
SM Weekly test
Q) What do you understand by micro-irrigation? Discuss its importance to a country like India?
UPSC Question
Q) Discuss different types of cybercrimes and measures required to be taken to fight the menace?
SM Weekly Test
Q) As “Digital India” grows, cybersecurity vulnerabilities will increase too. In this context, critically analyse India’s cybersecurity capabilities.
UPSC Question
Q) What are the determinants of left-wing extremism in the Eastern part of India? What strategy should the Government of India, civil administration and security forces adopt to counter the threat in the affected areas? (Answer in 250 words) 15
SM weekly test
Q.) The Government of India has adopted an integrated and holistic approach to deal with the Left Wing Extremist (LWE) insurgency. In this context, discuss the challenges while dealing with this internal security in India. Critically analyse the steps are taken by India to curb this menace. (15)
UPSC Mains Question
Q) What do you understand about nanotechnology and how is it helping in the health sector? (Answer in 150 words)10
Q.10) Nanotechnology is a pathbreaking technology that can create many new materials and devices with a wide range of applications, such as in nanomedicine, nanoelectronics etc. Discuss? (10)
UPSC Question
Q) How is science interwoven deeply with our lives? What are the striking changes in agriculture triggered off by science-based technologies? (Answer in 150 words)10
SM Weekly test
Q.) Examine how India should use breakthroughs in biotechnology and genetic engineering for achieving the goal of low-input, high-output agriculture which is a prerequisite for doubling farmers’ income.
UPSC Question
Q) How does the draft Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2020 differ from the existing EIA Notification, 2006? (Answer in 150 words)10
SM Weekly test
Q.) The debate around development and environmental conservation has always been more tilted towards the development side at the cost of the environment. In such a scenario, critically analyse the amendments in the Environment Impact Assessment.
UPSC Question
Q) Describe the benefits of deriving electric energy from sunlight in contrast to conventional energy generation. What are the initiatives offered by our Government for this purpose? (Answer in 250 words) 15
SM Weekly test
Q.) What are the advantages of Lithium-ion batteries that makes it most suitable for e-vehicles and other devices? Examine India’s technological and manufacturing capabilities in this crucial product.
UPSC Question
Q) What are the key features of the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) initiated by the Government of India? (Answer in 250 words) 15
SM Weekly test
Q) Discuss key features of the National clean air program? Will it be able to solve the problem of air pollution in India. Critically examine?
UPSC Question
Q) What are the salient features of the Jal Shakti Abhiyan launched by the Government of India for water conservation and water security? (Answer in 150 words)10
SM Weekly test
Q) In a world driven by climate change, water has become crucial as a public resource. In the light of this, discuss how Jal Jeevan Mission will bring some respite in the lives of people in general and rural areas in particular.
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The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) recently released the Working Group I contribution to the Sixth Assessment Report (AR6). It is the first of four that the Panel will issue over the next one and a half years.
What does the report say?
Global surface temperature is now higher by 1.07oC since the pre-industrial era.
The impact of climate change on the atmosphere, oceans and land is unmistakably of human origin and this impact is picking up pace.
Carbon dioxide is the dominant source of warming.
Aerosols contribute to reducing the impact of warming by other greenhouse gases, by almost a third.
Methane reduction, while needed overall, is particularly significant only as part of the endgame as the drastic reduction of aerosols actually leads to an increase in warming.
The report expectedly projects an increase in climate extremes due to global warming, with heatwaves, extreme rainfall events and occurrence of extreme sea levels all expected to intensify and be more frequent.
A major finding of the report is that air pollution reduction and steep climate change mitigation are not complementary goals but require independent efforts over the short and medium-term
With the inclusion of the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology’s Earth System Model among the climate models used in AR6, India too has joined the climate modelling fraternity.
About the net-zero emission targets
The report’s clear message is that reaching net zero was not the determining factor for the world to limit itself to a 1.5oC , or 2oC, or indeed any specific temperature increase.
The report is clear that it is the cumulative emissions in reaching net zero that determine the temperature rise.
India’s Ministry for Environment, Forest and Climate Change was quick to note this point about net zero in a statement, adding that “historical cumulative emissions are the cause of the climate crisis that the world faces today”
The limitations of the remaining carbon budget for 1.5oC are so stringent — a mere 500 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide for an even chance of keeping to the limit — that they cannot be met by promises of net-zero 30 years from now.
Equally, the disconcerting finding is that the world is set to cross the 1.5oC limit within 10-15 years.
Implications for India
India has contributed less than 5% of global cumulative emissions to date, with per capita annual emissions a third of the global average.
India is also the only nation among the G20 with commitments under the Paris Agreement that are even 2oC warming-compatible.
India needs its development space urgently to cope with the future, one where global temperature increase may be closer to 2oC.
Even if India completely stops its emission which is 3 billion tonnes in carbon dioxide equivalent terms, for the next 30 years, with others’ emissions remaining the same, will buy the world less than two years of additional time for meeting the Paris Agreement temperature goals.
Way forward
Equity: Focusing on definite cumulative emission targets keeping equity and historical responsibility in view,
Immediate reduction by developed countries: Immediate emission reductions by the developed countries with phase-out dates for all fossil fuels.
Investment: Massive investment in new technologies and their deployment,
Climate finance: a serious push to the mobilisation of adequate climate finance is the need of the hour.
Conclusion
This is the message that the IPCC report has sent to this year’s climate summit and the world. The message is a dire warning, all the stakeholders should heed the warning.
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Bank for International Settlements (BIS) – is an intergovernmental organization of central banks which “fosters international monetary and financial cooperation and serves as a bank for central banks.”
It is not accountable to any national government.
The mission of the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) is to serve central banks in their pursuit of monetary and financial stability, to foster international cooperation in those areas and to act as a bank for central banks.
The Basel Committee for Banking Supervision (BCBS), while technically separate from the BIS, is a closely associated international forum for financial regulation that is housed in the BIS’ offices in Basel, Switzerland
The BCBS is responsible for the Basel Accords, which recommend capital requirements and other banking regulations that are widely implemented by national governments.
The BIS also conducts research on economic issues and publishes reports.
European Central Bank (ECB)
The European Central Bank (ECB) is the central bank responsible for monetary policy of those European Union (EU) member countries which have adopted the euro currency.
This region is known as the eurozone and currently comprises 19 members. The principal goal of the ECB is to maintain price stability in the euro area, thus helping preserve the purchasing power of the euro.
The European Central Bank (ECB) is headquartered in Frankfurt am Main, Germany. It has been responsible for monetary policy in the Euro area since January 1, 1999.
Key Takeaways
The European Central Bank (ECB) is the central bank of the combined Eurozone.
The ECB coordinates EU monetary policy, including setting the region’s target interest rates and controlling the supply of the Euro common currency.
The ECB’s primary mandate is to achieve price stability through low inflation.
International Monetary Fund (IMF)
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is the inter-governmental organisation established to stabilize the exchange rate in the international trade.
It helps the member countries to improve their Balance of Payment (BOP) condition thorough the adequate liquidity in the international market, promote the growth of global monetary cooperation, secure financial stability, facilitate international trade.
It is one of the Bretton woods twins, which came into existence in 1945, is governed by and accountable to the 189 countries that make up its near-global membership.
Objectives of IMF:
To promote international monetary co-operation.
To ensure balanced international trade
To ensure exchange rate stability
To eliminate or to minimize exchange restrictions by promoting the system of multilateral payments.
To grant economic assistance to members countries for eliminating the adverse balance of payment
To minimize the imbalances in quantum and duration of international trade.
IMF Quota & Voting Rights
Quotas was assigned to member countries reflecting their relative economic power & credit deposit to IMF
Subscription was to be paid 25% in gold or currency convertible into gold (effectively the dollar, which was the only currency then, still directly gold convertible for central banks) and 75% in the member’s own currency
Members were provided voting rights in proportion to their quota, hence member countries with higher quota have a higher say at IMF
Special Drawing Rights
Special drawing rights (SDRs) are supplementary foreign exchange reserve assets defined and maintained by the International Monetary Fund (IMF)
SDR is not a currency, instead represents a claim to currency held by IMF member countries for which they may be exchanged.
The value of an SDR is defined by a weighted currency basket of four major currencies: the US dollar, the euro, the British pound, the Chinese Yuan and the Japanese yen
The central bank of member countries held SDR with IMF which can be used by them to access funds from IMF in case of financial crises in their domestic market
Reverse Transche
A certain proportion of a member country’s quota is specified as its reserve tranche.
The member country can access its reserve tranche funds at its discretion and is not under an immediate obligation to repay those funds to the IMF.
Member nation reserve tranches are typically 25% of the member’s quota.
Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD)
Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) is an inter-governmental organization founded in 1961 to accelerate economic progress and world trade.
It is a very unique organization where 34 Democracies work together with market economies and 70 non-member economies promote economic growth, prosperity, and sustainable development.
The setting of the OECD reflects the peripheral discussion forum based on the policy research and analysis that helps governments in order to shape their policies that may lead to a formal agreement among member governments or be acted on in domestic or other international stages.
Most OECD members are high-income economies with a very high Human Development Index (HDI) and are regarded as developed countries.
The OECD headquarters at Paris, France. The OECD is funded by contributions from member states.
United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD)
The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) was established in 1964. It is an intergovernmental body of the United Nations Generally Assembly for promoting the development-friendly integration of developing countries into the world economy.
UNCTAD grew from the view that existing institutions like GATT (now WTO), the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and World Bank were not properly organized to handle the particular problems of developing countries.
Functions of UNCTAD
UNCTAD Objective is to maximize the trade, investment and development opportunities of developing countries and assist them in their efforts to integrate into the world economy on an equitable basis.
It functions as a forum for intergovernmental deliberations, supported by discussions with experts and exchanges of experience, aimed at consensus building.
It undertakes research, policy analysis and data collection for the debates of government representatives and experts.
It provides technical assistance tailored to the specific requirements of developing countries, with special attention to the needs of the least developed countries and of economies in transition.
United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP)
The Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) serves as the United Nations’ regional hub promoting cooperation among countries to achieve inclusive and sustainable development.
Established in 1947 with its headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand.
The largest regional intergovernmental platform with 53 Member States and 9 associate members, ESCAP has emerged as a strong regional think-tank offering countries sound analytical products that shed insight into the evolving economic, social and environmental dynamics of the region.
The Commission’s strategic focus is to deliver on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which is reinforced and deepened by promoting regional cooperation and integration to advance responses to shared vulnerabilities, connectivity, financial cooperation and market integration.
ESCAP’s research and analysis coupled with its policy advisory services, capacity building and technical assistance to governments aims to support countries’ sustainable and inclusive development ambitions
UN-ESCAP providing results-oriented projects, technical assistance and capacity building to member States in the following areas:
Macroeconomic Policy, Poverty Reduction and Financing for Development
Trade, Investment and Innovation
Transport
Environment and Development
Information and Communications Technology and Disaster Risk Reduction
Social Development
Statistics
Subregional activities for development
Energy
United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA)
United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) was established by the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) of the United Nations (UN) in 1958 as one of the UN’s five regional commissions, ECA’s mandate is to promote the economic and social development of its member States, foster intra-regional integration, and promote international cooperation for Africa’s development.
Made up of 54 member States, and playing a dual role as a regional arm of the UN and as a key component of the African institutional landscape, ECA is well-positioned to make unique contributions to address the Continent’s development challenges.
ECA’s strength derives from its role as the only UN agency mandated to operate at the regional and subregional levels to harness resources and bring them to bear on Africa’s priorities. T
o enhance its impact, ECA places a special focus on collecting up to date and original regional statistics in order to ground its policy research and advocacy on clear objective evidence; promoting policy consensus; providing meaningful capacity development; and providing advisory services in key thematic fields.
ECA’s thematic areas of focus are as follows:
Macroeconomic Policy
Regional Integration and Trade
Social Development
Natural Resources
Innovation and Technology
Gender
Governance
Statistic
United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE)
The United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) was set up in 1947 by ECOSOC. It is one of five regional commissions of the United Nations.
UNECE’s major aim is to promote pan-European economic integration. UNECE includes 56 member States in Europe, North America and Asia. However, all interested United Nations member States may participate in the work of UNECE. Over 70 international professional organizations and other non-governmental organizations take part in UNECE activities.
Providing legal frameworks and assistance activities through instruments like the UNECE Multilateral Environmental Agreements.
Developing expertise and policy solutions in areas such as resource efficiency, environmental performance, environmental democracy, sustainable transport, sustainable energy, sustainable housing, green real estate markets, and sustainable forest products.
Measuring sustainable development and improving capacities for environmental monitoring and assessment.
Encouraging eco-innovations and green investment.
Raising awareness to change behavioral patterns towards sustainable consumption and production, for example through the UNECE Strategy for
Education for Sustainable Development.
Developing green standards, for example the standards for cleaner and smarter vehicles developed by the World Forum for the Harmonization of Vehicle Regulations.
The Customs Convention on International Transport of Goods under Cover of TIR Carnets, 1975 (TIR Convention) is an international customs transit system under the auspices of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE)
India has become the 71st nation to join the United Nations TIR (Transports Internationaux Routiers) Convention.
World Bank Group
The World Bank Group (WBG) is a family of five international organizations that make leveraged loans to developing countries.
It is the largest and most famous development bank in the world and is an observer at the United Nations Development Group.
Its five organizations are the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), the International Development Association (IDA), the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA) and the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID).
The World Bank (IBRD)
IBRD provides loans and other assistance primarily to middle income and poor but creditworthy countries at interest rates slightly lower than that offered by other financial institutions but with long term maturity<countries which have the capacity to repay the loan amount with interest>
Origins: IBRD, as the name suggests, was created in 1944 to help Europe reconstruct/ rebuild after World War II. To be a member of IBRD, a country has t join IMF first.
Main function:
Long-term capital assistance to its member-countries for their reconstruction and development
It works closely with the rest of the World Bank Group to help developing countries reduce poverty, promote economic growth, and build prosperity.
Other functions of IBRD Bank –
Supports long-term human and social development that private creditors do not finance.
Preserves borrowers’ financial strength by providing support in times of crisis, when poor people are most adversely affected
Promotes policy and institutional reforms (such as safety net or anti-corruption reforms)
Creates a favourable investment climate to catalyze the provision of private capital
Facilitates access to financial markets often at more favorable terms than members can achieve on their own
Resources of the Bank consist of the capital and borrowings.
International Development Association
The International Development Association (IDA) is the part of the World Bank group that helps the world’s poorest countries.
Overseen by 173 shareholder nations, IDA aims to reduce poverty by providing loans (called “credits”) and grants for programs that boost economic growth, reduce inequalities, and improve people’s living conditions.
IDA complements the World Bank’s original lending arm—the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD). IBRD was established to function as a self-sustaining business and provides loans and advice to middle-income and credit-worthy poor countries.
IBRD and IDA share the same staff and headquarters and evaluate projects with the same rigorous standards.
IDA is one of the largest sources of assistance for the world’s 771 poorest countries, 39 of which are in Africa, and is the single largest source of donor funds for basic social services in these countries.
IDA lends money on concessional terms. This means that IDA credits have a zero or very low-interest charge and repayments are stretched over 25 to 40 years, including a 5- to 10-year grace period. IDA also provides grants to countries at risk of debt distress.
In addition to concessional loans and grants, IDA provides significant levels of debt relief through the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) Initiative and the Multilateral Debt Relief Initiative (MDRI).
IDA’s work covers primary education, basic health services, clean water and sanitation, agriculture, business climate improvements, infrastructure, and institutional reforms.
IFC
Largest global development institution focused exclusively on the private sector in developing countries established in 1956
Objectives of the IFC
To further economic development by encouraging the growth of private enterprise in member-countries
Invests in private enterprise in member-countries in association with private investors and without a Government guarantee, in cases where sufficient private capital is not available on reasonable terms
Seeks to bring together investment opportunities, private capital of both foreign and domestic origin, and experienced management
Stimulates conditions conducive to the flow of private capital – domestic and foreign – into productive investments in member-countries
IFC investment normally does not exceed 40% of the total investment of the enterprise.
In case of its investment by equity participation, it does not exceed 25% of the share capital.
IFC and India
IFC makes strategic investments and advisory interventions to promote inclusive growth, help address climate change impacts, and encourage global and regional integration
In India, IFC is sharpening its focus on increasing access to energy, finance and healthcare; providing the sustainable infrastructure; and boosting regional linkages
Focus Areas –
Building infrastructure Facilitating renewable energy generation Promoting cleaner production, energy and water efficiency Supporting agriculture for improved food security Creating growth opportunities for small businesses Helping reform investment climate
The Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA)
It is an international financial institution which offers political risk insurance and credit enhancement guarantees. Such guarantees help investors protect foreign direct investments against political and non-commercial risks in developing countries.
MIGA is a member of the World Bank Group and is headquartered in Washington, D.C., United States. It was established in 1988 as an investment insurance facility to encourage confident investment in developing countries.
MIGA’s stated mission is “to promote foreign direct investment into developing countries to support economic growth, reduce poverty, and improve people’s lives”. It targets projects that endeavour to create new jobs, develop infrastructure, generate new tax revenues, and take advantage of natural resources through sustainable policies and programs.
MIGA is owned and governed by its member states, but has its own executive leadership and staff which carry out its daily operations. Its shareholders are member governments which provide paid-in capital and have the right to vote on its matters.
It ensures long-term debt and equity investments as well as other assets and contracts with long-term periods. The agency is assessed by the World Bank’s Independent Evaluation Group each year.
International Centre for the Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID)
It encourages the flow of foreign investment to develop countries through arbitration and conciliation facilities
Except for ICSID, India is a member of the other four groups <We don’t like external interference such as arbitration in our decision-making process, hence not the member of ICSID>
Let’s revise World Bank in brief
Name
Main Function
Comment
IBRD (WB)
Infrastructure loan to poor middle income but creditworthy countries at just below market rates
India founder member, the largest recipient of the loan
IDA
Soft loan at virtually zero rates for poverty eradication to poorest countries
India founder largest recipient has crossed the per capita threshold for funding but will continue to receive IDA funds
IFC
The private sector arm of the WB group supports private enterprises in developing countries
India founder, IFC launched India’s offshore masala bond
MIGA
Provide a guarantee to investors against non-commercial political risk
India is not a founding member
ICSID
Resolve disputes through arbitration and conciliation
India is not a member
World Trade Organization (WTO)
The WTO is an intergovernmental organization that is concerned with the regulation of international trade between nations.
The WTO officially commenced on 1 January 1995 under the Marrakesh Agreement, signed by 123 nations on 15 April 1994.
It replaced the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), which commenced in 1948.
It is the largest international economic organization in the world.
Functions of WTO
The WTO deals with regulation of trade in goods, services and intellectual property between participating countries.
It provides a framework for negotiating trade agreements and a dispute resolution process aimed at enforcing participants’ adherence to WTO agreements, which are signed by representatives of member governments and ratified by their parliaments.
