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  • 20 Dec 2017 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions & [Tikdams]

    Dear student,

    One of these questions would have application of Tikdams. Tikdams are smart hacks which help you arrive at the right answer with basic knowledge. Broadly speaking, there are 2 types:

    1. Elimination Tikdams: Extrapolate your basic knowledge to eliminate options which appear out of context. Zero down on 2 choices and then mark the question as per your risk appetite
    2. Estimation Tikdams: Read the question well and work out the answer from within the options – Most of the times UPSC plays with words or embeds clues within the question. A smart aspirant figures them out!

    With strong basics and regular practice, you will be able to arrive at a very robust Tikdam framework of your own. To know more, read about this technique here, IAS 2016 by Dr. V & Tikdams 

    Note: Please comment your responses to questions in the comment section. It will help you in assessing yourself.


    Q.1) Which of the following are the principles of ‘Panchseel Agreement’?

    1. Mutual respect for each other’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

    2. Mutual non-aggression.

    3. Mutual non-interference in each other’s internal affairs.

    4. Economic integration.

    5. Peaceful co-existence.

    Select the correct option using the codes given below.

    a) 1, 2 and 4 only

    b)1,2,3 and 5

    c) All of the above

    d) 1, 3, 4 and 5 only

    Inspired by: [op-ed snap] Raja Mandala: India and China — Rebuild the trust

    Tikdam:

    There is no economic angle in Panchsheel. All the principles of Panchsheel are related to peace and national security. Once we use this logic we can easily solve this question. Economic integration cannot be part of Panchsheel once we eliminate that we will automatically get the answer without even knowing other 4 statements.

    Q.2) The ‘Peace clause’, sometimes seen in news, is related to which of the following organisation?

    a) WTO

    b) United Nations Security Council

    c) SAARC

    d) NATO

    Inspired by: Food security: time to move to cash transfers

    Q.3) Consider the following statement about Ransomware:

    1. It is a type of malicious software designed to block access to a computer system until a sum of money is paid.

    2. The ransom demanded in each instance is to be paid in only dollars.

    Which of the following statement is/are correct?

    a)    Only 1

    b)    Only 2

    c)    Both1 and 2

    d)    Neither 1 nor 2

    Inspired by: [Op-ed snap For a safe cyberspace]

    Q.4) With reference to the ‘National Clean Air Programme (NCAP)’ which of the following are its objectives?

    1. to augment and evolve an effective ambient air quality monitoring network across the country

    2. to ensure a comprehensive management plan for prevention, control, and abatement of air pollution

    3. to focus on a collaborative and participatory approach comprising all sources of pollution and coordination between relevant central ministries, state governments, local bodies and other stakeholders.

    Select the correct option using the codes given below.

    a) 1 and 2 only

    b) 1 and 3 only

    c) 2 and 3 only

    d) 1, 2 and 3

    Inspired by: Centre formulates plan to tackle air pollution across the country

    Q.5) With reference to the ‘Indian Forest (Amendment) Bill, 2017’ which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. It would amend the Indian Forest Act to exempt transportation of bamboo grown in non-forest areas from the state permit.

    2. It would omit bamboos growing in non-forest areas from the definition of trees.

    Select the correct option using the codes given below.

    a) 2 only

    b) Both 1 and 2

    c) 1 only

    d) Neither 1 nor 2

    Inspired by: Bill to amend Indian Forest Act tabled in Lok Sabha

    Q.6) What is the role of ultraviolet (UV) radiation in the water purification systems?

    1. It inactivates/kills the harmful microorganisms in water.

    2. It removes all the undesirable odours from the water.

    3. It quickens the sedimentation of solid particles, removes turbidity and improves the clarity of water.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    a) 1 only

    b) 2 and 3 only

    c) 1 and 3 only

    d) 1, 2 and 3

    Q.7) Graphene is frequently in news recently. What is its important?

    1. It is a two­dimensional material and has good electrical conductivity.

    2. It is one of the thinnest but strongest materials tested so far.

    3. It is entirely made of silicon and has high optical transparency.

    4. It can be used as ‘conducting electrodes’ requires for touch screens, LCD’s and organic LED’s

    Which of the statements given above are correct?

    a) 1 and 2 only

    b) 3 and 4 only

    c) 1,2 and only

    d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

    Q.8) Lead, ingested or inhaled, is a health hazard) After the addition of lead to petrol has been banned, what still are the sources of lead poisoning?

    1. Smelting units

    2. Pens pencils

    3. Paints

    4. Hair oils and cosmetics

    select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    a) 1, 2 and 3 only

    b) 1 and 3 only

    c) 2 and 4 only

    d) 1, 2, 3 and 4


    IMPORTANT STUFF: 

    1. Daily newscards have been enriched with back2basics and note2students – Make notes daily

    2. Liked Tikdams? Join our Flagship TS which helps you perfect this approach – Flagship Prelims for IAS 2018

    3. For attempting previous Prelims Daily Questions – Click here

    4. Click here for Solutions

  • 19 Dec 2017 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions & [Tikdams]

    Dear student,

    One of these questions would have application of Tikdams. Tikdams are smart hacks which help you arrive at the right answer with basic knowledge. Broadly speaking, there are 2 types:

    1. Elimination Tikdams: Extrapolate your basic knowledge to eliminate options which appear out of context. Zero down on 2 choices and then mark the question as per your risk appetite
    2. Estimation Tikdams: Read the question well and work out the answer from within the options – Most of the times UPSC plays with words or embeds clues within the question. A smart aspirant figures them out!

    With strong basics and regular practice, you will be able to arrive at a very robust Tikdam framework of your own. To know more, read about this technique here, IAS 2016 by Dr. V & Tikdams 

    Note: Please comment your responses to questions in the comment section. It will help you in assessing yourself.


    Q.1) Consider the following statement about UDAN scheme:

    1. RCS is applicable on route length between 200-800 kilometers with lower limit set for only hilly, remote, island and security sensitive regions.

    2.The business model of the scheme is based on Government subsidy and viability gap funding (VGF).

    3. The fund for this scheme would come from a Regional Connectivity Fund (RCF) created by levying certain charges on certain flights. States will need to contribute around 20% to this fund.

    Which of the following statement is/are correct?

    a)   1 and 2

    b)   1 and 3

    c)   All of the above

    d)   2 and 3

    Inspired by: Ministry may face fund crunch for UDAN

    Q.2) INGRAM portal, recenly seen in news, is related to

    a) National Consumer Helpline (NCH)

    b) UDAN Scheme

    c) Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana

    d) Annapurna Scheme

    Inspired by: Click2read

    Q.3) With reference to the ‘Non-Lapsable Central Pool of Resources (NLCPR) scheme’, recently seen in news, consider the following statements:

    1. It is launched in all States of India, except the State of Jammu and Kashmir.

    2. Promotion of tourism is one of the objectives of the scheme.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    a) Both 1 and 2

    b) 1 only

    c) 2 only

    d) Neither 1 nor 2

    Inspired by: [pib] Cabinet approves continuation of NLCPR scheme for North East till March 2020

    Q.4) Which of the following are the benefits of using ‘Neem Coated Urea’?

    1. Neem coating leads to more gradual release of urea, helping plants gain more nutrient and resulting in higher yields.

    2. Neem serves as a natural insecticide

    3. Less contamination of underground water due to leaching of urea.

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

    a) 1, 2 and 3

    b) 2 and 3 only

    c) 1 and 2 only

    d) 1 and 3 only

    Inspired by: [op-ed snap] From Plate to Plough: For farmers, the next big idea

    Q.5) With reference to the ‘Goods and Service Tax Network (or GSTN)’ which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. It is a non-government organisation.

    2. one of its responsibility is to maintain all tax details of the GST.

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

    a) Both 1 and 2

    b) 1 only

    c) 2 only

    d) Neither 1 nor 2

    Inspired by: GSTN plans data scan to detect tax evasion

    Q.6) Which of the following are included in the original jurisdiction of the Supreme Court?

    1. Dispute between the Government of India and one or more States

    2. A dispute regarding elections to either House of the parliament or that of Legislature of a State

    3. A dispute between the Government of India and Union Territory

    4. A disputes between two or more States.

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    a) 1 and 2

    b) 2 and 3

    c) 1 and 4

    d) 3 and 4

    Q.7) Consider the following kinds of organisms:

    1. Bacteria

    2. fungi

    3. flowering plants some species of which of the above kinds of organisms are employed as bio pesticides?

    Select the correct answer:

    a) 1 only

    b) 2 and 3 only

    c) 1 and 3 only

    d) 1, 2 and 3

    Q.8) Biomass gasification is considered to be one of the sustainable solutions to the power crisis in India) In this context which of the following statements correct?

    1. Coconut shells, groundnut shells and rice husk can be used in biomass gasification

    2. The combustible gases generated from biomass gasification consist of hydrogen and carbon dioxide only

    3. The combustible gases generated from biomass gasification can be used for direct heat generation but not in internal combustion engines.

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    a) 1 only

    b) 2 and 3 only

    c) 1 and 3 only

    d) 1, 2 and 3

     


    IMPORTANT STUFF: 

    1. Daily newscards have been enriched with back2basics and note2students – Make notes daily

    2. Liked Tikdams? Join our Flagship TS which helps you perfect this approach – Flagship Prelims for IAS 2018

    3. For attempting previous Prelims Daily Questions – Click here

    4. Click here for Solutions

  • Philosophy optional Telegram group

    any serious group with daily targets, please comment.
    t.me/Philosophy_UPSC

  • PHYSICS OPTIONAL WHATSAPP GROUP 9567806412

    WhatsApp group exclusively for Physics optional aspirants…. message to 9567806412

  • 18 Dec 2017 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions & [Tikdams]

    Dear student,

    One of these questions would have application of Tikdams. Tikdams are smart hacks which help you arrive at the right answer with basic knowledge. Broadly speaking, there are 2 types:

    1. Elimination Tikdams: Extrapolate your basic knowledge to eliminate options which appear out of context. Zero down on 2 choices and then mark the question as per your risk appetite
    2. Estimation Tikdams: Read the question well and work out the answer from within the options – Most of the times UPSC plays with words or embeds clues within the question. A smart aspirant figures them out!

    With strong basics and regular practice, you will be able to arrive at a very robust Tikdam framework of your own. To know more, read about this technique here, IAS 2016 by Dr. V & Tikdams 

    Note: Please comment your responses to questions in the comment section. It will help you in assessing yourself.


    Q.1) With reference to the ‘ Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2017’, consider the following statements:
    1. Under the provisions in the Bill, a Muslim woman can seek custody of her minor children from the court.
    2. It enables the woman to move court seeking “subsistence allowance” for herself and the children.
    3. It bans polygamy for Muslim community.
    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
    a) 1 and 2
    b) All of the above
    c) 2 and 3
    d) 1 and 3
    Inspired by: Cabinet gives nod to bill against instant triple talaq

    Q.2) Steel Authority of India Ltd (SAIL) has recently signed an agreement with which of theh following steel producer for producing automotive steel?
    a) POSCO
    b) China Baowu Group
    c) ArcelorMittal
    d) Tata Steel Group
    Inspired by: Click2read

    Q.3) With reference to the ‘National Medical Commission Bill’ which of the following statements is/are correct?
    1. The bill replaces MCI with a regulator that will do away with “heavy-handed regulatory control” over medical institutions.
    2. It will bring in a licentiate examination under the States.
    Select the correct option using the codes given below.
    a) 1 only
    b) 2 only
    c) Both 1 and 2
    d) Neither 1 nor 2
    Inspired by: Cabinet clears Bill to replace Medical Council of India

    Q.4) Which of the following are the possible effects of ‘Tobacco’ consumption on humans, through smoking?
    1. Coronary heart disease
    2. Lung Cancer
    3. Stroke
    Select the correct option using the codes given below.
    a) 1, 2 and 3
    b) 1 and 2 only
    c) 2 and 3 only
    d) 1 and 3 only
    Inspired by: Karnataka HC strikes down rule on stringent tobacco pack warnings

    Q.5) Consider the following statement regarding the Transparency International:
    1. It is a Non-Governmental Organisation(NGO).
    2. It is attached to UN for its operations.
    3. It is Headquartered in Paris, France.
    Which of the following statements given above is/are correct?
    a) All of the above are correct
    b) 1 and 2 only
    c) 1 only
    d) 2 and 3 only

    Q.6) Consider the following statements:
    1. Union territories are not presented in the Rajya Sabah
    2. It is within the purview of the Chief Election Commissioner to adjudicate the election disputes
    3. According to the constitution of India, parliament consists of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabah only
    which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    a) 1 Only
    b) 2 and 3
    c) 1and 3 only
    d) None

    Q.7) With reference to consumer’s rights / privileges under the provision of law in India which of the following statements correct?
    1. Consumer are empowered to take samples for food testing
    2. when consumer files a complaint in any consumer forum, no fee is required to be paid)
    3. In case of death of consumer, his/her legal heir can file a complaint in the consumer forum on his/her behalf.
    Select the correct answer:

    a) 1 only
    b) 2 and 3 only
    c) 1 and 3 only
    d) 1, 2 and 3

    Q.8) Regarding the office of the Lok Sabha speaker consider the following statements:
    1. He/She holds the office during the pleasure of the President
    2. He/She need not be a member of the house at the time of his/her election but has to become a member of the House within six moths from the date of his/her election
    3. If he/she intends to resign the letter of his/her resignation has to be addressed to the Deputy Speaker.
    Which of the above statements given above is/are correct?

    a) 1 and 2 only
    b) 3 only
    c) 1,2 and 3
    d) None


    IMPORTANT STUFF: 

    1. Daily newscards have been enriched with back2basics and note2students – Make notes daily

    2. Liked Tikdams? Join our Flagship TS which helps you perfect this approach – Flagship Prelims for IAS 2018

    3. For attempting previous Prelims Daily Questions – Click here

    4. Click here for Solutions

  • Weekly Gyaan with Dr. V | Priority 1 news items from Dec 8-14 2017

    #1. [op-ed snap] The outsider: On adultery law

    Importance level: HIGH

    Prelims worthy: Section 497 of the Indian Penal Code, Article 15(3) of Constitution, Section 198(2) of the Code of Criminal Procedure

    Mains worthy: Various laws/provisions that treat women as subordinate and the need to repeal them

    Short Summary: Op-ed discusses the issue of adultery law (Section 497 of the Indian Penal Code) being reconsidered by Supreme Court.

    SC has noted that in a case of adultery, one person is liable for the offense but the other is absolved and that the concept of gender neutrality, on which criminal law normally proceeds, is absent

    The matter now goes beyond the limited question of the culpability of women involved in a relationship outside their marriage. The law perpetuates the notion that women are somehow naive, gullible, and lack the agency a man possesses and hence needs to be repealed.

    Further reads: Provisions related to marriage, women safety in IPC and Constitution.

    Read full op-ed here: https://www.civilsdaily.com/op-ed-snap-the-outsider-on-adultery-law/

    #2. [op-ed snap] Two myths about automation

    Importance level: HIGH

    Prelims worthy: Automation

    Mains worthy: How automation will affect jobs

    Short Summary: Op-ed discusses details about automation and its effects.

    Automation can be defined as the technology by which a process or procedure is performed without human assistance.

    According to a report, Automation Will Eliminate 9% Of US Jobs in 2018 and one-third of US workers could be jobless by 2030 due to Automation.

    Impression that technological progress and job destruction are accelerating dramatically and previously safe jobs are now at risk are the two myths attached to automation.

    The jobs are changing, not disappearing as machines are not capable of tasks in which empathy, compassion, intuition, interpersonal interaction, and communication are central

    Read full op-ed here: https://www.civilsdaily.com/op-ed-snap-two-myths-about-automation/

    #3. Narendra Modi inducts Scorpene-class submarine Kalvari into Indian Navy

    Importance level: HIGH

    Prelims worthy: INS Kalvari, INS Sindhushastra, Project-75, Kalvari tiger shark

    Mains worthy:  Defense procurement and Make in India

    Short Summary: News discusses commissioning of India’s first modern conventional submarine, INS Kalvari, into Navy’s fleet.

    This is the first induction in almost two decades and thus becomes important.

    Kalvari, named after a deep-sea tiger shark is the first of the six Scorpene-class submarines being built as part of Project-75 of the Indian Navy.

    Read full news here: https://www.civilsdaily.com/narendra-modi-inducts-scorpene-class-submarine-kalvari-into-indian-navy/

    #3. [op-ed snap] Perils of going cashless

    Importance level: HIGH

    Prelims worthy: Financial Resolution and Deposit Insurance Bill (FRDI), cashless society

    Mains worthy: Government moves to reduce cash usage and its effects on depositors

    Short Summary: Op-ed discusses about “bail-in” clause of the Financial Resolution and Deposit Insurance Bill (FRDI) which has led to worries about the safety of bank deposits.

    The Bill enables the government to confiscate the deposits of ordinary citizens in order to save troubled public sector banks.

    A cashless world makes it easier for banks to carry out their business of credit creation without the risk of having to satisfy the demand for cash from depositors as under cashless system, depositors are essentially locked in by banks.

    Read full op-ed here: https://www.civilsdaily.com/op-ed-snap-perils-of-going-cashless/

    #3. Govt, ASEAN in talks to take IMT highway up to Vietnam

    Importance level: MEDIUM

    Prelims worthy: India-Myanmar-Thailand (IMT) highway, ASEAN

    Mains worthy: Various regional connectivity agreements involving India and their current status

    Short Summary: News discusses about India and ASEAN countries holding consultations on the extension of the 1,360 km IMT highway — from Moreh in India to Mae-Sot in Thailand — to Laos, Cambodia and to Vietnam

    This connectivity can generate annually, an estimated USD 70 billion in incremental GDP and 20 million in incremental aggregate employment by 2025

    Connecting India with the Southeastern countries through a network of road will create jobs, market for crops grown in hilly regions of the Northeast which will also help growers in getting better price for their produce

    Read full news here: https://www.civilsdaily.com/story/foreign-policy-watch-india-asean/#post-94533

    #4. [op-ed snap] In an elite club: On India’s Wassenaar entry

    Importance level: HIGH

    Prelims worthy: Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG), the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR), the Australia Group

    Mains worthy: India’s nuclear program, NSG bid and way forward

    Short Summary: Op-ed discusses about India getting membership of Wassenaar Arrangement.

    This is a big step forward in India’s quest for formal acceptance as a responsible nuclear power as this agreement is clubbed with mechanisms such as the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG), the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) and the Australia Group.

    Wassenaar Arrangement will embed India deeper in the global non-proliferation architecture and enable access to critical technologies in the defense and space sectors and also help in getting membership of Australia group and NSG.

    Read full op-ed here: https://www.civilsdaily.com/op-ed-snap-in-an-elite-club-on-indias-wassenaar-entry/

    Further reads: Read about India’s NSG bid, MTCR and backgrounder of issue here- https://www.civilsdaily.com/story/nuclear-diplomacy-and-disarmament/

    #5. [op-ed snap] Raja Mandala: Indian diplomacy, beyond the canon

    Importance level: HIGH

    Prelims worthy: Bodhi Parva, BIMSTEC, two plus two dialogue,  G-20, East Asia Summit, BRICS, Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, Commonwealth forum

    Mains worthy: India’s rising stature in multipolar world

    Short Summary: Op-ed discusses the new approach of Indian diplomacy in maintaining relations with all the countries and moving away from non-alignment.

    Along with cultural, digital and physical connectivity, the idea of minilateralism with multiple partners has become an important theme in Indian diplomacy.

    After the end of cold war, India looked beyond the idea of the Non-Aligned Movement and as a result India is part of such diverse organizations like the G-20, East Asia Summit, BRICS, and Shanghai Cooperation Organisation.

    Read full op-ed here: https://www.civilsdaily.com/op-ed-snap-raja-mandala-indian-diplomacy-beyond-the-canon/

    #6. No WTO deal without food security: India

    Importance level: HIGH

    Prelims worthy: WTO, WTO Ministerial Conference, Doha Round of negotiations, Trade Facilitation in Services (TFS) Agreement

    Mains worthy: Issues related to food security and WTO agreements

    Short Summary: News discusses India’s stance at the recently concluded WTO meet at Buenos Aires.

    India has said it cannot envisage any negotiated outcome, at the meeting of the World Trade Organisation’s apex decision-making body, which does not include successful resolution of the food security right issue.

    India opposed the endeavor of certain countries to include ‘new issues’ — such as e-commerce, investment facilitation and matters relating to small firms in the ongoing Doha Round of negotiations.

    Read full news here: https://www.civilsdaily.com/no-wto-deal-without-food-security-india/

    #7. Govt bans condom ads from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. because they are “indecent”

    Importance level: MEDIUM

    Prelims worthy: Cable Television Networks Rules, 1994, Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI)

    Mains worthy: Ban culture being imposed in name of preserving values

    Short Summary: News discusses the government order which strictly asked TV channels not to air advertisements selling and promoting condoms

    Apart from this, indecent, vulgar, suggestive, repulsive or offensive themes or treatment shall be avoided in all advertisements

    This decision was taken after the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) requested the ministry earlier this month to take a call on such ads and their telecast timing

    Read full news here: https://www.civilsdaily.com/govt-bans-condom-ads-from-6-a-m-to-10-p-m-because-they-are-indecent/

    #8. [pib] Water circuits to be developed on the lines of power circuits

    Importance level: HIGH

    Prelims worthy: Water circuits

    Mains worthy: Water management

    Short Summary: News discusses need for water circuits in the country on the lines of power circuits for better water conservation

    River connectivity programme can reduce water crisis in critical areas like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana, and Maharashtra

    Read full news here: https://www.civilsdaily.com/pib-water-circuits-to-be-developed-on-the-lines-of-power-circuits/

    #9. New form of matter ‘excitonium’ discovered

    Importance level: HIGH

    Prelims worthy: Excitonium, bosons

    Mains worthy: Discovery and its details can be asked in Mains

    Short Summary: Excitonium which was first theorized almost 50 years ago, has been proved by scientists

    Excitonium is made up of excitons, particles that are formed in a very strange quantum mechanical pairing and exhibits macroscopic quantum phenomena, like a superconductor

    Read full news here: https://www.civilsdaily.com/new-form-of-matter-excitonium-discovered/

    #10. Short on judges, justice a dish served cold

    Importance level: HIGH

    Prelims worthy: Appointment process in Judiciary, Rankin Committee Report, Law Commission of India

    Mains worthy: Pendency of cases in judiciary and way forward

    Short Summary: News discusses the issue of judicial pendency and current status of vacancies in judiciary

    Nearly 2.6 crore cases are pending in the district and subordinate courts across the country and 25% of  judges posts are lying empty

    Apart from exams not being conducted and delayed results, unclear recruitment procedures and difficulties in coordination between recrutitment agencies (state psc’s) and High courts is a major reason of posts lying vacant.

    SC has initiated various reforms to address this issue.

    Read full news here: https://www.civilsdaily.com/short-on-judges-justice-a-dish-served-cold/

    #11. [op-ed snap] Living in a world of emerging microbial resistance

    Importance level: HIGH

    Prelims worthy: Antimicrobial Resistance, ANSWER, NDM-1

    Mains worthy: 2017 National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance

    Short Summary: Op-ed discusses the issue of antimicrobial resistance and what effects it can have

    The 2017 National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance talks about limiting antibiotics in effluent being dumped by drug makers into the environment

    Until now, India’s fight against antibiotic-resistance was focussed on getting people to cut down on unnecessary antibiotic consumption but this attitude needs to be changed as antimicrobial resistance could give rise to new genes as dangerous as NDM-1

    Read full op-ed here: https://www.civilsdaily.com/op-ed-snap-living-in-a-world-of-emerging-microbial-resistance/

    #12. Joint Indo-UK military exercise focusing on interoperability

    Importance level: HIGH

    Prelims worthy: Military exercises-Ajeya Warrior, Indra, Shakti, Shatrujeet, Drad sankalp

    Mains worthy: India’s defence cooperation with various nations

    Short Summary: News discusses about the third edition of the exercise ‘Ajeya Warrior’ that was held close to the Indo-Pak border in Rajasthan

    The exercise was held against the backdrop of UN mandate of anti-terrorism operations

    India has intensified its military cooperation with various nations after China’s increased presence in Pakistan as well as Indian ocean region

    Read full news here: https://www.civilsdaily.com/joint-indo-uk-military-exercise-focusing-on-inter-operability/

    #13. UN rejects US recognition of Jerusalem as Israeli capital

    Importance level: HIGH

    Prelims worthy: Jerusalem-historical importance and position (map based), UNSC

    Mains worthy: Isreal-palestine conflict and itrs ramifications on world

    Short Summary: Ndews discusses about urgent meeting of UNSC that was called to analyze the decision taken by Washington to recognize Jerusalem as Israel’s capital

    UNSC has said that Jerusalem is a final status issue for which a comprehensive, just and lasting solution must be achieved through negotiations between the parties

    This was done after US President Donald Trump had recognised Jerusalem as the capital of Israel in a planned speech

    Read full news here: https://www.civilsdaily.com/un-rejects-us-recognition-of-jerusalem-as-israeli-capital/

    #14. 119 nations back move to remove barriers limiting women’s participation in trade

    Importance level: HIGH

    Prelims worthy: Buenos Aires Declaration on Women and Trade, WTO

    Mains worthy: Efforts across world for Women empowerment

    Short Summary: News discusses about WTO’s Buenos Aires Declaration on Women and Trade

    Nearly three-fourths of the 164-member World Trade Organisation (WTO) supported a declaration seeking women’s economic empowerment by expeditiously removing barriers to trade

    India did not endorse this declaration as agreeing to the proposition to link gender and trade could lead to advanced countries using their high standards in gender-related policies to curb exports from the developing world

    Read full news here: https://www.civilsdaily.com/119-nations-back-move-to-remove-barriers-limiting-womens-participation-in-trade/

  • 17 Dec 2017 | Target Mains | 17th Weekly Test

     

    Q.1) An interesting event which is happening in last few years is Russia and China’s continued attempts to frame global and regional politics through a similar lens, and the growing divergences between India and them. In the light of the above statement, Discuss the Challenges facing the RIC and steps required to address these challenges.

    Source: https://www.civilsdaily.com/op-ed-snap-looking-for-balance-in-power/

     

    Q.2) With violence decreasing and the knowledge economy growing, society is making progress towards gender equality. But there’s a long way to go, and the law plays an important role in shaping the way women are viewed. In the light of the above statement discuss some of the gender discriminatory laws in India.

    Source: https://www.civilsdaily.com/op-ed-snap-gender-based-laws-a-double-edged-sword/

     

    Q.3) The World inequality report 2018 highlighted that Income inequality in India has worsened over the past three-and-a-half decades. Discuss the reasons behind this phenomenon and steps needed to improve the situation.

    Source: https://www.civilsdaily.com/income-inequality-in-india-worsens-but-slower-than-russia-and-china-report/

     

    Q.4) Critically discuss the salient features of the Financial Resolution and deposit insurance bill?

    Source: https://www.civilsdaily.com/op-ed-snap-perils-of-going-cashless/

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/op-ed-snap-bail-in-doubts-on-financial-resolution-legislation/

     

    Q.5) What do you mean by E-cigarettes? Discuss the rationale behind its use and key concerns associated with it.

    Source: https://www.civilsdaily.com/maharashtra-fda-approaches-law-and-judiciary-dept-over-ban-on-e-cigarettes/

     

    Q.6) What is the Wassenar arrangement? What advantages will India get from being member of the Wassenar arrangement?

    Source: https://www.civilsdaily.com/op-ed-snap-in-an-elite-club-on-indias-wassenaar-entry/

     

    Q.7) What do you understand by PETCOKE? What are its harmful effects? Recent reports indicate that India is the biggest importer of PETCOKE generated in USA. Discuss the reason behind this unusual trend.

    Source: https://www.civilsdaily.com/sc-eases-petcoke-ban-for-2-sectors/

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/india-is-biggest-importer-of-u-s-oil-refinery-by-product-petcoke/

     

    Q.8) Discuss the salient features of the Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Bill, 2016? It is considered that the bill will provide women with much needed work life balance. Critically analyse. (200 Words)

    Source: https://www.civilsdaily.com/maternity-benefit-amendment-bill/

    https://thewire.in/195658/amendment-maternity-act-tool-gender-diversity/

     

    Q.9) In the recently concluded elections in Nepal leftist groups emerged victorious. What impact it will have on Indo-Nepal relations and Nepal-China relations, also suggest steps which India should take to improve relations with the new Government in Nepal.

    Source:  https://scroll.in/article/861272/a-communist-win-in-the-nepal-elections-is-bad-news-for-india-but-great-for-china

    https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/with-eye-on-china-india-to-step-up-relations-with-nepal/articleshow/62075326.cms

     

    Q.10) Discuss the argument for and against the Women Reservation bill?

    Source: https://www.civilsdaily.com/will-womens-reservation-bill-be-passed-in-lok-sabha-this-winter-session/

     

    Ethics Questions

    Q.11)  You are posted as SDM in a tehsil. Your husband is also a civil Servant and remains busy throughout the day because of the work pressure. You have a small child aged 2 years. You are finding it difficult to manage your job with the child as your job sometimes requires you to work in odd hours. One day when you discuss the matter with your husband, instead of finding a solution or cooperating you, he abruptly asks you to leave the job and look after the child as he earns well. You have no financial burdens as such and quitting the job would also give you sufficient time to spend with your child who is too young. Given below are some options. Discuss them with their merits and demerits. Also suggest which course of action would you take and why?

    (i) Resign from the job and look after your child.

    (ii) Continue your job and call your mother in law to look after the child or appoint a caretaker for the child.

    (iii) Have an argument with your husband that why only you should compromise with your job.

    (iv) Getting your child admitted in a crèche near your office

     

    Q.12)   The showing up off the strength, power through the use of beacons, etc is very much prevalent in India. It brings hatred and discomfort among the minds of general public. What are the pros and cons of the government’s decision of curbing VIP culture by banning red beacons?  Do you think a certain class of people should be given special benefits and important status in the society? Give arguments in support of your answer.

     

     

  • 16 Dec 2017 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions & [Tikdams]

    Dear student,

    One of these questions would have application of Tikdams. Tikdams are smart hacks which help you arrive at the right answer with basic knowledge. Broadly speaking, there are 2 types:

    1. Elimination Tikdams: Extrapolate your basic knowledge to eliminate options which appear out of context. Zero down on 2 choices and then mark the question as per your risk appetite
    2. Estimation Tikdams: Read the question well and work out the answer from within the options – Most of the times UPSC plays with words or embeds clues within the question. A smart aspirant figures them out!

    With strong basics and regular practice, you will be able to arrive at a very robust Tikdam framework of your own. To know more, read about this technique here, IAS 2016 by Dr. V & Tikdams 

    Note: Please comment your responses to questions in the comment section. It will help you in assessing yourself.


    Q.1) Which of the following organisation has recently published the ‘World Inequality Report 2018’?

    a) World Wealth & Income Database

    b) UNICEF

    c) WHO

    d) UNESCO

    Inspired by: Income inequality in India worsens, but slower than Russia and China: report

    Tikdam:

    Even if you would have not heard about this report you can still solve this question with a bit of common sense. The report name is World inequality report. All the last 3 options which were mentioned in this question has nothing to do with economics. WHO deals with Global health, UNESCO with culture and heritage, UNICEF with Child rights. Therefore, no way they can release a report on inequality. Once we eliminate the last 3 options from the scene, the only option remaining is the 1st​ option whose name also suggests that it can release the World inequality report.

    Q.2) ‘Gomukh’ is a terminus of which of the following glaciers?

    a) Pindari

    b) Zemu

    c) Kafni

    d) Gangotri

    Inspired by: No lake formation near Gaumukh or along the course of river Bhagirathi: reports

    Q.3) Consider the following statement about net neutrality:

    1. Net neutrality means that governments and internet service providers treat all data on the internet equally and does not differentially charge consumers for higher-quality delivery or giving preferential treatment to certain websites.

    2.Net neutrality is not mandatory in India

    Which of the following statement is/are correct?

    a)    Only 1

    b)    Only 2

    c)    Both 1 and 2

    d)    Neither 1 nor 2

    Q.4) Which of the following passed constitutional amendments have provided reservation for women in election?

    1. 72nd

    2. 73rd

    3. 108th

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

    a) 1, 2 and 3

    b) 1 and 3 only

    c) 2 and 3 only

    d) 1 and 2 only

    Inspired by: Will Women’s Reservation Bill be passed in Lok Sabha this Winter Session? 

    Q.5) What is ‘Kepler’, sometimes seen in news?

    a) Earth based telescope

    b) Space Observatory

    c) Gravitational-wave observatory

    d) None of the above

    Inspired by: Google crunches data to help NASA find two new planets

    Q.6) The national green tribunal act. 2010 was enacted in consonance with which of the following provisions of the constitution of India?

    1. Right to healthy environment, construed as a part of Right to life under article 21

    2. Provision of grants for raising the level of administration in the scheduled areas for the welfare of scheduled tribes under article 275(1)

    3. Powers and functions of gram Sabah as mentioned under article 243 (A)

    select the correct answer:

    a) 1 only

    b) 2 and 3 only

    c) 1 and 3 only

    d) 1, 2 and 3

    Q.7) If national water mission is properly and completely implemented how will it impact the country?

    1. Part of the water needs of urban areas will be met through recycling of waste water.

    2. The water requirements of coastal cities with inadequate alternative sources of water will be met by adopting appropriate technologies that allow for the use of ocean water.

    3. All the rivers of Himalayan origin will be linked to the rivers of peninsular India

    4. The expenses incurred by farmers for digging bore wells and for installing motors and pump sets to draw groundwater will be completely reimbursed by the Government.

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below

    a) 1 only

    b) 1 and 2 only

    c) 3 and 4 only

    d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

    Q.8) Consider the following provisions under the Directive Principles of State Policy as enshrined in the Constitution of India:

    1. Securing for citizens of India a uniform civil code

    2. Organising village panchayats

    3. Promoting cottage industries in rural areas

    4. Securing for all the workers reasonable leisure and cultural opportunities.

    Which of the above are the Gandhian Principles that are reflected in the Directive Principles of State Policy?

    a) 1, 2 and 4 only

    b) 2 and 3 only

    c) 1, 3 and 4 only

    d) 1, 2, 3 and 4


    IMPORTANT STUFF: 

    1. Daily newscards have been enriched with back2basics and note2students – Make notes daily

    2. Liked Tikdams? Join our Flagship TS which helps you perfect this approach – Flagship Prelims for IAS 2018

    3. For attempting previous Prelims Daily Questions – Click here

    4. Click here for Solutions.

  • Flagship Prelims 2018 Batch 1 & 2 | TS 14 Science & Technology Discussion

    All aspirants who are giving tomorrow’s test should discuss all there doubts/queries about any question on this thread and not in the comments section of the test

    Around 20 questions of the test can be solved using Tikdam method

    Tikdams explanations in those selected questions are given in the explanation column itself

    By closely observing those questions after every test you will gradually learn the art of Tikdams which will assist you in clearing the UPSC prelims

    Highlights of tomorrow’s test:

    Q.1 Consider the following statements with reference to Gelator

    1. It helps to recover marine oil spills with a simple, efficient and cost effective method

    2. It is completely hydrophilic

    3. It can be used only once

    Which of the statements given above is / are correct?

    a) 1 only

    b) 1 and 2 only

    c)  2 and 3 only

    d) 1, 2 and 3

     

    Q.2 Consider the following with respect to Rare Earth Elements

     1. Rare earth elements (REE) are a group of seventeen chemical elements that occur together in the periodic table

    2. They are plentiful in the Earth’s crust

    3. Japan is the biggest producer of Rare Earth Elements

    Which of the statements given above is / are correct?

    a) 1 only

    b) 2 only

    c) 1 and 3 only

    d) 1, 2 and 3

     

    Q.3 Consider the following statements

     1. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease. It is caused when the body’s immune system kills the alpha cells

    2. Type 2 diabetes is caused when your body loses sensitivity to insulin or fails to respond to the insulin produced by the body

    3. The “liver”, which encapsulates insulin-producing cells, is capable of naturally producing insulin in a sustained manner

    Which of the statements given above is / are correct?

    a) 1 and 3 only

    b) 2 only

    c) 3 only

    d) 1, 2 and 3

     

    Q.4 With reference to “bionic leaf”, consider the following statements

    1. Bionic Leaf uses solar energy to split water molecules into oxygen and hydrogen

    2.  Its efficiency is higher than photosynthetic plants

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    a) 1 Only

    b) 2 Only

    c) Both 1 and 2

    d) Neither 1 nor 2

    All the Best! 

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