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  • Batch 3: CD Prime Test Series for Prelims 2019

    We are now accepting admissions for Batch 3

    Join Batch 3 of Test series here: Click2Join

    Click2View the detailed schedule of test series with complete booklist to be followed.

     

    We will be extending the discount on this batch till 2nd September (the date for the first test of this batch) keeping in mind interest of students who were awaiting prelims results to decide further course of action and now want to join a test series for Prelims 2019. This is also to ensure that students join before tests start and they stay regular with the schedule

    UPDATE #2

    We are upgrading the program further to provide you more Comprehensive Preparation

    Apart from the static subject videos, now we will also provide Economic Survey & Budget Analysis Videos covering key concepts and important terms for Prelims 2019.  Economic Survey analysis will be available from 2016 to 2018 covering trends in Indian Economy as well as key issues related to it.

    That makes the total video lectures to be 75 hours

    UPDATE  #1

    Demolish UPSC series
    We are releasing 60+ Hours of Advanced Video Lectures on Static subjects – Polity, History, Geography, Economy

    These cover the most important topics from prelims perspective

    Basic knowledge will be helpful in understanding these though it’s not mandatory
    CD remains committed to its students’ success. We are ready to go the extra mile to turn your dreams into reality.

    Join Batch 3 of Test series here: Click2Join

     

    Here is the detailed schedule of lectures:

    Importance of Economic Survey and Budget

    Economic Survey and Budget are the 2 most important documents that you will go through in your exam preparation.

    • Economic Survey discusses all the major government initiatives with the explanation.
    • If we go by the trend, every year around 20 questions in prelims and 7-8 questions in mains are directly related to the Economic Survey and Budget.
    • Questions in prelims paper stress on important phrases, key analysis, and technical terms. Hence they have to be thoroughly studied.
    • Almost mandatory to imbibe actual phrases used in Economic Survey to frame answers for Main Examination. for example, if a Question is asked on Banking sector problems in the mains exam, you can always quote the 4R recommendations of the 2016th economic survey.
    • Adding the important and relevant facts and figures significantly enhance your marks in General Studies Paper-III.
    • Deep knowledge of the current policies and programs of the government also help an aspirant to write meaningful Essays in UPSC Civil Services Main Examination. For example, Wiping every tear from every eye “Twin balance sheet problem”, “translating potential into actuality” “ Chakravuyh challenge” etc.
    • According to the new trend economy and the environment is going hand in hand. So questions can come from that perspective also.
    • Many statistics and schemes are now being asked in Prelims

    Watch the video to know how we ensure you get 120+ score in Prelims

    The only TS that is supervised by top rankers and provides personalized attention to students. Check out the 7 points that make it the best in the market.

    Follow the video below to understand what makes the TS unique. Our planning and execution remains perfect.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QWUJ-nQWqkE

     

    It goes without saying that Civilsdaily’s Flagship Test Series Program has created a name for itself. It is preferred among students in their advanced stages of preparation.
    Here is what ABHILASH BARANWAL, AIR 44, CSE-2017 had to say about CD

    Here is what  JITENDRA KUMAR SHARMA, AIR 392, CSE-2017 had to say –

    This year, we have upgraded the program to make it the best offering in the market.

    Introducing CD Prime TS 2019

    1. One comprehensive program – Our TS is a full-fledged course in itself! With a mix and match of various kinds of questions and detailed explanation wherever need. It is a very effective way of both, starting a subject and revising one.

    2. Telegram Groups moderated by to Toppers.  Mentorship taken to a whole new level. You will be helped at every step of the way.

    3. Introducing questions-types – Judging the quality of any TS is very subjective. While some will say its great, others will say its quality has decreased over time. That is why we have introduced the concept of question-types. They ensure consistency in quality. How? We have explained that in the end.

    4. Dedicated monthly CA Tests – Exclusive focus on Current Affairs(CA) by having dedicated monthly CA tests. Besides, exhaustively preparing for CA questions, it has helped students precisely figure out what their weaknesses are.  

    5. Tikdams and mastering the art of intelligent guesses – Tikdam Technique is an innovation by Dr. V(AIR 20) and has helped students gain additional marks. Our TS is the only TS that puts a conscious effort to build student’s risk-taking appetite.

    6. Subject and sub-subject Level Tagging – These tags will help you understand the importance of themes and revise other questions from them.

    7. Two-tier quality check  – Our questions pass through a rigorous true stage assessment criteria. The first being done by CD’s core content team with the final approval from a coterie of rankers.


    What are questions types 

    Wherever applicable, we will try to stick to the format decided below. It standardizes questions to a decent extent.

    A. Consolidation Questions
    These questions consolidate information from different topics to help you see concepts holistically and also aid retention.
    Eg. Consider this question. You would not have studied all the ‘Majorities’ together but under separate topics. This question will help you understand the concept in entirety.

    Consider the following questions on the types of Majority
    1. Special Majority of not less than 2/3 of the Members present and voting is required in the passage of a resolution under Art. 249 and Art. 312ONLY.
    2. Impeachment of the President requires Not less than 2/3 of the Members present and voting along with Majority of the Total Strength of the House.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
    a)1
    b)2
    c)Both
    d)None

    Explanation – A very detailed account of the types of Majority is given here https://www.civilsdaily.com/types-of-majorities/
    Statement 1 is correct despite having ‘ONLY’ in it.

    B. Comparative Questions
    Comparative questions help you understand the relative differences between related topics. Consider the question below. Instead of asking a question on HC or SC separately, we have clubbed it together.

    Consider the following statements with respect to the appointment of judges of High Court & Supreme Court
    1. The minimum qualifications prescribed in the Constitution is same for judges of HC & SC.
    2. While SC judges are appointed by the President, HC judges are appointed by the SC.
    Which of the following is/are incorrect?
    a) 1 only
    b) 2 only
    c) Both 1 and 2
    d) None

    Explanation – 3 qualifications are common to both judges of HC and SC
    1. Citizen of India
    2. Judge of HC for 5 years
    3. Advocate in HC for 10 years
    In case of judges of SC, there is an additional qualification – If he/she is a distinguished Jurist in the opinion of the President. Judges of HC are also appointed by the President. The controversy around appointments has been in news very frequently. Please read – https://www.civilsdaily.com/story/judicial-appointments-conundrum-post-njac-verdict/

    C. Interactive Questions
    These questions will ask you to go through a concept/related concepts and reply back with comments. This will help you re-visit the entire concept rather than simply answer one specific aspect of the topic.

    Eg., consider the following question –
    The conversion of Ammonia (NH3) to nitrite (NO2-) and then to nitrates (NO3-) is called

    a) Nitrification
    b) Ammonification
    c) Assimilation
    d) Denitrification
    Answer A

    Explanation
    Nitrification
    In this process, the ammonia is converted into nitrate by the presence of bacteria in the soil. Ammonia is oxidized to form nitrites by bacteria such as Nitrosomonas species. Nitrates are converted into nitrates by Nitrobacter. This conversion is very important as ammonia gas is toxic for plants.
    Make a note of all the processes involved in the Nitrogen Cycle – nitrogen fixation, assimilation, ammonification, nitrification, and denitrification process.
    Leave their definitions/organisms involved in the comments.

    D. Star-marked/special questions
    These are advanced questions that are not from standard sources but relevant for the exam. These questions will help you build additional knowledge without going through specialized books.
    Eg. Questions on books by freedom-fighters, News not covered by the Hindu, IE, PIB but of very high importance in world affairs.

    Besides these, questions indirectly related to CA will also be asked. 

    Do I need to join a TS for prelims at all?

    Despite UPSC being unpredictable, prelims TS is the only program that can help you assess how your preparation is. Besides few questions that are directly asked from TS, it helps in developing a good understanding of how to prepare/what to prepare/what to prioritize and so on.

    In today’s hyper-competitive exam scenario, it’s almost impossible to clear the exam without a good TS in hand.

    Join Batch 3 of Test series here: Click2Join

  • 11 August 2018 | High Relevance vs Low Relevance News

    Reading News for UPSC is utmost important and rising number of questions year on year in UPSC Prelims is a testimony of this

    We are starting a daily series where we will analyze news covered in The Hindu, Indian Express and other newspapers which are important from exam perspective and which are not

    Important news would have been covered in our daily news coverage in form of newscards.

    Unimportant ones will be mentioned here and a short description regarding why it is not relevant for the exam

    Click on news headlines to read the full news

    High relevance news

    [op-ed snap] Decoding the DNA Bill

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/op-ed-snap-decoding-the-dna-bill/

    The editorial discusses all issues related to DNA profiling bill. Read and make notes for Mains.

    NASA poised to blast off first spacecraft to explore Sun

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/nasa-poised-to-blast-off-first-spacecraft-to-explore-sun/

    Any news of new space mission by either ISRO or NASA is very important for Prelims. Now space missions are also being asked in Mains.

    [pib] “PARIVESH” – an environmental single window hub for Environment, Forest, Wildlife and CRZ clearances launched

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-parivesh-an-environmental-single-window-hub-for-environment-forest-wildlife-and-crz-clearances-launched/

    Important from prelims perspective.

    [pib] Exercise SCO Peace Mission 2018

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-exercise-sco-peace-mission-2018/

    A match the column type question on various bilateral exercises might appear in Prelims 2019. Remember these exercises.

    Low Relevance News

    Centre issues new order on cantonment roads

    The Defence Ministry issued a fresh statement on the closure of cantonment roads, reiterating most of what it had said in its previous orders

    No important points from exam perspective.

     

  • 10 August 2018 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

    Q.1) One District One Product is an initiative of which of the following state?

    a) Madhya Pradesh

    b) Rajasthan

    c) Uttar Pradesh

    d) Kerala

    Inspired by: [pib] One District One Product

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-one-district-one-product/

    Q.2) Consider the following statements about Train Captain Service:

    1. Train Captain will be the single person/leader responsible for coordinating the entire team and facilitating all services during the complete journey of the train.

    2. They will provide services only on selected trains like Rajdhani/ Shatabdi/ Duronto.

    3. Mostly Travelling Ticket Examiner (TTE) will be assigned charges of Train Captain Service.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    a) Only 1

    b) 1 and 2

    c) 1 and 3

    d) All are incorrect.

    Inspired by: [pib] Train Captain Service

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-train-captain-service/

    Q.3) Which of the given statements is/are correct about Global Innovation Index?

    1. It is released by World Economic Forum.

    2. It is based on data derived from several sources, including the International Telecommunication Union, the World Bank and the World Economic Forum.

    3. India’s rank on the Global Innovation Index (GII) has improved from 60 in 2017 to 57 in 2018.

    Select the correct codes from the following options.

    a) Only 1

    b) 1 and 2

    c) 2 and 3

    d) All are correct

    Inspired by: [pib] NITI Aayog to join hands with CII to develop a roadmap for Global Innovation Index

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-niti-aayog-to-join-hands-with-cii-to-develop-a-roadmap-for-global-innovation-index/

    Q.4) Consider the following statement about Serious Fraud Investigation Office:

    1. It is the office under Ministry of Home Affairs.

    2. It is the co-ordinating agency with the Income Tax Department and the Central Bureau of Investigation.

    3. It is a multi-disciplinary organization having experts from financial sector, capital market, accountancy, forensic audit, taxation, law, information technology, company law, customs and investigation.

    4. It is based on the recommendation of Naresh Chandra Committee.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    a) 1, 2 and 3

    b) 2, 3 and 4

    c) 1, 3 and 4

    d) All are correct.

    Inspired by: [pib] Serious Fraud Investigation Office

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-serious-fraud-investigation-office/

    Q.5) Global Slavery Index is released by which of the following organisation?

    a) UNHCR

    b) UN-ECOSOC

    c) Walk Free Foundation

    d) Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation

    Answer: (c)

    Inspired by: [op-ed snap] The anti-trafficking Bill is necessary

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/op-ed-snap-the-anti-trafficking-bill-is-necessary/

     

    For Solutions – Click Here

    Prelims Daily Archive – Click here

  • 10 August 2018 | High Relevance vs Low Relevance News

    Reading News for UPSC is utmost important and rising number of questions year on year in UPSC Prelims is a testimony of this

    We are starting a daily series where we will analyze news covered in The Hindu, Indian Express and other newspapers which are important from exam perspective and which are not

    Important news would have been covered in our daily news coverage in form of newscards.

    Unimportant ones will be mentioned here and a short description regarding why it is not relevant for the exam

    Click on news headlines to read the full news

    High relevance news

    [pib] NITI Aayog to join hands with CII to develop a roadmap for Global Innovation Index

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-niti-aayog-to-join-hands-with-cii-to-develop-a-roadmap-for-global-innovation-index/

    Read about GII and its details. Can be asked in Prelims.

    Explained: Thermal Battery

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/explained-thermal-battery/

    A first of its kind plant in the world has been set up in India and this itself makes the news important. Read about the thermal battery and all related details. Can be asked in Pre as well as Mains.

    [op-ed snap] Time for economic policy vigilance

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/op-ed-snap-time-for-economic-policy-vigilance/

    Indian economy is facing challenges from domestic as well as international front. The editorial discusses all these in detail and also recommends solutions to attain fiscal stability. Read and make notes for Mains.

    Low Relevance News

    Monsoon session: Most productive for Lok Sabha since 2000

    The Monsoon session of Parliament, which ended on Friday, was the “most productive” for Lok Sabha since 2000. The Lok Sabha worked for 110 per cent of the scheduled hours.

    No important details in news except the work done in the monsoon session.

  • 9 August 2018 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

    Q.1) Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve lies in which of the following state(s)?

    1. Sikkim

    2. Arunachal Pradesh

    3. Manipur

    4. Assam

    Select the correct codes:

    a) 1 and 2

    b) 2 ,3 and 4

    c) 2 only

    d) 1 only

    Inspired by: [pib] Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve becomes 11th Biosphere Reserve from India to be included in the World Network of Biosphere Reserves

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-khangchendzonga-biosphere-reserve-becomes-11th-biosphere-reserve-from-india-to-be-included-in-the-world-network-of-biosphere-reserves/

    Q.2) Consider the following statements about Niryat Mitra Mobile App:

    1. It is developed by National Informatics Center.

    2. It provides wide range of information required to undertake international trade right from the policy provisions for export and import, applicable GST rate, available export incentives, tariff etc.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    a) Only 1

    b) Only 2

    c) Both 1 and 2

    d) None of the above

    Inspired by: [pib] Mobile App Niryat Mitra

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-mobile-app-niryat-mitra/

    Q.3) Which of the given statements about Discovered Small Fields Policy is not correct?

    a) It is aimed at extracting the Oil, Natural gas from the un-monetized small oil/gas discoveries that are available in the country.

    b) It provides an easy investment option for new and existing players with minimal risk.

    c) ONGC is the nodal agency to see its implementation.

    d) It provides for Easy bidding process; minimum requirements; transparent award; swift processing of approvals.

    Inspired by: [pib] Bid round –II under ‘Discovered Small Field Policy’

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-bid-round-ii-under-discovered-small-field-policy/

    Q.4) Cosider the following statements about the Open Defecation Protocols under Swachh Bharat Missions:

    1. The SBM ODF+ protocol focuses on sustaining community/ public toilet usage by ensuring their functionality, cleanliness and maintenance.

    2. The SBM ODF++ will focus on achieving sanitation sustainability by addressing complete sanitation value chain, including safe containment, processing and disposal of fecal sludge and septage.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    a) Only 1

    b) Only 2

    c) Both 1 and 2

    d) None of the above

    Inspired by: [pib] Swachh Survekshan 2019, ODF+ & ODF ++ Protocols and Swachh Manch Web Portal

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-swachh-survekshan-2019-odf-odf-protocols-and-swachh-manch-web-portal/

    Q.5) A gradual, continuous change in the species composition between two ecosystems or communities of organisms across an environmental gradient is called as-

    a) Ecotype

    b) Ecocline

    c) Ecozone

    d) Ecotone

    Inspired by: [pib] Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve becomes 11th Biosphere Reserve from India to be included in the World Network of Biosphere Reserves

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-khangchendzonga-biosphere-reserve-becomes-11th-biosphere-reserve-from-india-to-be-included-in-the-world-network-of-biosphere-reserves/

     

    For Solutions – Click Here

    Prelims Daily Archive – Click here

     

  • 9 August 2018 | High Relevance vs Low Relevance News

    Reading News for UPSC is utmost important and rising number of questions year on year in UPSC Prelims is a testimony of this

    We are starting a daily series where we will analyze news covered in The Hindu, Indian Express and other newspapers which are important from exam perspective and which are not

    Important news would have been covered in our daily news coverage in form of newscards.

    Unimportant ones will be mentioned here and a short description regarding why it is not relevant for the exam

    Click on news headlines to read the full news

    High relevance news

    India faces a stern test of its commitment to RCEP

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/india-faces-a-stern-test-of-its-commitment-to-rcep/

    RCEP has been on cards for a long time. Now India has moved forward to take a final call on joining RCEP. Read the associated consequences for Mains and member countries for Prelims.

    [pib] Swachh Survekshan 2019, ODF+ & ODF ++ Protocols and Swachh Manch Web Portal

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-swachh-survekshan-2019-odf-odf-protocols-and-swachh-manch-web-portal/

    Read about swacch survekshan and associated parameters and agencies involved. Can be asked in Prelims. The change in mindset being brought by this campaign can be a topic for Mains.

    [op-ed snap] The urgent need for states to get fiscally fit

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/op-ed-snap-the-urgent-need-for-states-to-get-fiscally-fit/

    A detailed editorial highlighting the fiscal strain of states and measures to bring more revenue and better fiscal prudence. Must read for Mains.

    Low Relevance News

    NGT grants interim relief to Sterlite

    The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has granted Vedanta Limited access to its administrative section of the Sterlite Copper plant in Tuticorin. However, the green panel said that the production process will continue to remain shut

    No important things in news from the exam perspective

  • 8 August 2018 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

    Q.1) Bhoomi Project is an initiative of which of the following state?

    a) Andhra Pradesh

    b) Telangana

    c) Karnataka

    d) Madhya Pradesh

    Inspired by: [op-ed snap] The need for digitizing land records in India

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/op-ed-snap-the-need-for-digitizing-land-records-in-india/

    Q.2) Consider the following statements about Assistance for Prevention of Alcoholism and Substance (Drug) Abuse:

    1. It is an initiative Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

    2. It is Centrally Sponsored Scheme for identification, counselling, treatment and rehabilitation of addicts through voluntary and other eligible organizations.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    a) Only 1

    b) Only 2

    c) Both 1 and 2

    d) All are incorrect.

    Inspired by: [pib] Scheme of Assistance for Prevention of Alcoholism and Substance (Drug) Abuse

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-scheme-of-assistance-for-prevention-of-alcoholism-and-substance-drug-abuse/

    Q.3) Consider the following statements about provisions of Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2018. Which of them is/are correct?

    1. It provides for death sentence for the accused in case of rape victim is below 12 years of age.

    2. The act seeks to amend only POCSO Act.

    3. There is no provision for anticipatory bail in every case of rape irrespective of the age of the victim.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    a) 1 and 3

    b) 1 only

    c) 3 only

    d) All are correct

    Inspired by: Parliament clears Bill for death in rape cases

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/parliament-clears-bill-for-death-in-rape-cases/

    Q.4) Which of the given statements is/are correct about Restricted Areas Permit for the Andaman and Nicobar groups of Islands?

    1. It is aimed to promote tourism in 22 inhabited Island.

    2. It seeks to remove all restrictions required for visiting reserved forests, wildlife sanctuaries and tribal reserves.

    3. RAP is removed for all foreigners except the citizens of Afghanistan, Pakistan and China.

    Select the correct codes:

    a) Only 1

    b) 1 and 3

    c) 2 and 3

    d) All are correct

    Inspired by: Access to Andaman eased

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/access-to-andaman-eased/

    Q.5) Consider the following statements about Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989:

    1. It actually provides for no anticipatory bail, surpassing section 438 of the CrPC.

    2. It however provides for arrest of Public servant if accused of atrocity.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    a) Only 1

    b) Only 2

    c) None of the above

    d) All are correct.

    Inspired by: LS passes SC/ST amendment Bill

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/ls-passes-sc-st-amendment-bill/

     

    For Solutions – Click Here

    Prelims Daily Archive – Click here

  • 8 August 2018 | High Relevance vs Low Relevance News

    Reading News for UPSC is utmost important and rising number of questions year on year in UPSC Prelims is a testimony of this

    We are starting a daily series where we will analyze news covered in The Hindu, Indian Express and other newspapers which are important from exam perspective and which are not

    Important news would have been covered in our daily news coverage in form of newscards.

    Unimportant ones will be mentioned here and a short description regarding why it is not relevant for the exam

    Click on news headlines to read the full news

    High relevance news

    [op-ed snap] The need for digitizing land records in India

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/op-ed-snap-the-need-for-digitizing-land-records-in-india/

    A good editorial highlighting issues being faced in digitization of land records and why it is essential. Read and make notes for Mains.

    [op-ed snap] Commissions Of Inaction

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/op-ed-snap-commissions-of-inaction/

    The editorial highlights the functioning of various constitutional and statutory commisions and how they have proved to be white elephants and nothing else. Make notes for quoting in Mains answers as one question can be asked on OBC commission or related details.

    LS passes SC/ST amendment Bill

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/ls-passes-sc-st-amendment-bill/

    A very hot topic. Read and note details of the amendment bill as well as what is the issue. Can be asked in Mains.

    Access to Andaman eased

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/access-to-andaman-eased/

    Read about Restricted area permit and mentioned places. Can be asked in Prelims. (Map based questions)

    Parliament clears Bill for death in rape cases

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/parliament-clears-bill-for-death-in-rape-cases/

    The bill awarding a maximum sentence of death to those convicted for raping girls below 12 years of age has been passed by both houses of Parliament. It had become a necessity seeing the rising instances of sexual abuse of children in the country. Note important details of the bill, can be asked in Mains.

    Low Relevance News

    Gurumurthy appointed to the board of RBI

    The Centre has appointed RSS ideologue S. Gurumurthy and Satish Kashinath Marathe as part-time non-official directors on the central board of Reserve Bank of India for four years after the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) headed by PM approved their names as recommended by the department of financial services, Ministry of Finance

    No important detail in news from the exam perspective

  • [Burning Issue] Crop Insurance

    Image result for crop insurance india

    Crop Insurance

    • Refers to insurance services brought by farmers against loss or damage to growing crops.
    • Damages can be due to natural disasters such as drought, hail, floods, or either due to decline in prices of the agriculture commodity.

    History of Crop Insurance in India

    • As far back as 1915 in the pre-independence era,  J.S. Chakravarthi had proposed a rain insurance scheme for the farmers with view to insuring them against drought. His scheme was based on, what is referred to today as the ‘Area Approach’.
    • Apart from this, certain princely states like Madras, Dewas, and Baroda, also made attempts to introduce crop insurance relief in various forms, but with little success.
    • After independence, the first crop insurance program was introduced in 1972-73 by LIC on Cotton in Gujarat.
    • Later in 1972, the newly set up General Insurance Corporation (GIC) took over the experimental scheme and subsequently widened the coverage of crops as well as area of implementation. This experimental scheme was based on ‘Individual Approach’.
    • It was realized that crop insurance programmes based on the individual farm approach would not be viable in India.
    • Professor V. M. Dandekar (Father of Crop Insurance in India) suggested an alternate ‘Homogeneous Area Approach’. Based on this approach, the General Insurance Corporation of India (GIC) introduced a Pilot Crop Insurance Scheme from 1979.
    • Based on the learning from Pilot Crop Insurance Scheme, the Comprehensive Crop Insurance Scheme was introduced in 1985 by the Government of India. The CCIS was implemented on Homogeneous Area Approach. All crop loans given for notified crops in notified areas were compulsorily covered under the CCIS.
    • The CCIS was eventually discontinued after Kharif 1999, to be replaced by the improved and expanded National Agriculture Insurance Scheme (NAIS).
    • Later “National Crop Insurance Programme” was launched in 2013 by merging three schemes viz. Modified National Agricultural insurance Scheme (MNAIS), Weather Based Crop insurance Scheme (WBCIS) and Coconut Palm Insurance Scheme (CPIS).
    • Since 2016, Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana is being implemented by replacing MNAIS and CPIS.
    • But WBCIS is still working along with PMFBY.

    Crop Insurance Schemes

    Why it is difficult to design

    1. The risk of crop loss has a significant systemic component; and
    2. Ex ante risk assessment and ex post loss assessment for individual farmers are costly.

    Crop insurance is mandatory for

    1. farmers who have taken short-term crop loan (loanee farmers).

    But Crop Insurance is voluntary for

    1. all other farmers (non-loanee farmers).

    The premium of crop insurance is

    1. Is deducted from the loan amount for loanee farmers, and claim, if any, is adjusted against the loan amount.
    2. The non-loanee farmers, pay premium from their pocket, and receive the claim amount if crop loss is recognised.

    Coverage of crop insurance (according to Govt):

    1. around 26% farmers have been covered in 2017 so far.

    Reasons behind the low demand for crop insurance in India

     

    • In India, demand for crop insurance is highly price-sensitive.

     

    1. Even a small change in premium rates leads to wide shifts in demand.
    2. PMFBY, with its attractive premium, is expected to be a hit.

     

    • Poor awareness.

     

    1. An overwhelming majority (60% farmers) lack awareness about crop insurance schemes (NSSO)

     

    • Delay in settlement of claims.

     

    1. Lengthy and complex system of claim settlement discourages farmers from insuring their crops.

     

    • Mandatory only for loanee farmers

     

    1. Thus, PSBs do not have any incentive to sell it to non-loanee farmers.

     

    Livestock Insurance

    The Livestock Insurance Scheme:

    1. Is centrally sponsored scheme
    2. Implemented on a pilot basis during 2005-08 in 100 selected districts
    3. Presently being implemented in all districts of the country (since 2014) as a sub-mission under the National Livestock Mission

    Under the scheme

     

    • The animals

     

    1. Indigenous / crossbred milch animals
    2. Pack animals (Horses, Donkey, Mules, Camels, Ponies and Cattle/Buffalo Male)
    3. and Other Livestock (Goat, Sheep, Pigs, Rabbit, Yak and Mithun etc.)

     

    • The insurance:

     

    1. Done at their current market price
    2. Premium subsidy of 50% is borne entirely by centre

     

    • Twin objectives are to:

     

    1. Protect incomes
    2. Popularize livestock insurance (ultimate aim – qualitative improvement in livestock and their products)

    CAG report on Agriculture insurance in India

    • CAG audit report of centre’s crop insurance schemes has highlighted gaps in their implementation.
    • Two schemes that were audited: From Kharif 2011 to Rabi 2015-16
    1. Modified National Agriculture Insurance Scheme ( MNAIS )
    2. National Crop Insurance Programme ( NCIP )
    • The present Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana has not been scrutinised by the CAG.
    • It came in Kharif 2016.

    Problems highlighted by CAG in Agri-insurance in India

    • Delayed payments by state government.
    • Agriculture Insurance Company Of India Ltd. ( AIC ) failed to follow due to protocols in verification of claims by private insurance companies before releasing funds to them.
    • Difficulty in cross checking
    • Missing records of beneficiaries
    • The low inclusion of Small and Marginal farmers
    • Low coverage of non-loanee farmers.
    • Lack of Awareness

    Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY)

    • Started in the Kharif season of 2016
    • To reduce the burden of crop insurance on farmers.
    • In line with ‘One Nation – One Scheme’ theme.
    • Replaced the National Agricultural Insurance Scheme (NAIS) and Modified National Agricultural Insurance Scheme (MNAIS).
    • The Weather-Based Crop Insurance Scheme (WBCIS) remains in place, though its premium rates have been made the same as in PMFBY.
    • State governments to decide whether they want PMFBY, WBCIS or both in their states.
    • It incorporates the best features of all previous schemes and at the same time, all previous shortcomings/weaknesses have been addressed.

    How is PMFBY different

     

    • Lowest premium for farmers

     

        1. in the history of Independent India
        2. kept at  a maximum of 1.5% for Rabi, 2% for Kharif and 5% for annual horticultural/commercial crops

     

    • Uncapped premium would ensure farmers get a higher claim

     

        1. ≥25% of the claim is settled directly through farmers’ bank account
        2. previous schemes had higher + capped premium

     

    • The scheme is open to all farmers irrespective of whether they are loanees or not

     

        1. previously, loanee farmers were mandated to take crop insurance

     

    • Covers localised losses due to floods

     

        1. Only hailstorm and landslide were covered in previous schemes.

     

    • Post-harvest loss

     

        1. Previous schemes covered only coastal areas for cyclones.
        2. PMFBY covers all-India for both cyclonic and unseasonal rains.

     

    • Use of modern tech for quicker assessment and claim settlement

     

        1. PMFBY makes it mandatory – remote sensing, smartphones etc
        2. Previous schemes only relied on Crop Cutting Experiment (CCE) data instead
        3. Collecting this data and processing of claims delayed settlement

     

    • Awareness generation (AG)

     

      1. Previous schemes did not focus on AG; therefore insurance adoption remained low
      2. PMFBY targets at least 50% coverage through greater AG

    Successes of PMFBY

     

    • In the very first Kharif season (2016)

     

      1. The area under coverage increased by 38% (vs. 2015)
      2. The number of farmers covered increased by 47% (vs. 2015)
      3. Sum insured (per ha) increased by 51% (vs. 2015)
      4. The number of non-loanee farmers opting for PMFBY increased by 23%, driven primarily by Maharashtra.
      5. Increase in risk coverage against non-preventable natural risks from pre-sowing to post-harvest losses

    Challenges / Loopholes

     

    • Settling claims

     

        1. Slow submitting yield data by states to the insurance companies.
        2. The lackadaisical attitude of state agencies causes painful delays.
        3. Farmers still to get over Rs 5,600 crore worth of estimated claims from the 2016 kharif season

     

    • Assessing crop losses

     

    1. Modern tech not used to the fullest, despite being mandatory causing huge delays in assessment and reporting
    2. The states are also slow in conducting village-level crop-cutting experiments
    • No direct connection with the farmers
      1. Everything from damage assessment to claim settlement by govt and insurance companies.
      2. Therefore farmers have no role.
      3. The premiums are collected and passed on by the banks that extend loans to the farmers.
      4. “More as loan insurance than as crop insurance”.

    Conclusion on PMFBY

    • PMFBY has made appreciable progress in terms of coverage
    • But it has failed in timely settlement of claims
    • If the PMFBY has to succeed farmers must have a bigger stake in its functioning
    • Use modern tech in crop assessment and reporting
    • Modern tech is crucial for timely claim settlement
    • Link the insurance database with Core Banking Solution (CBS) so as to keep farmers apprised of premium deductions and claim receipt
    • Centre should take over the entire premium subsidy burden.
    • Ensure social audit
    • Cross check by various authorities and stakeholders
  • 7 August 2018 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

    Q.1) The ‘8888’ uprising (or the eighth day of August 1988) marks the pro-democratic movement of which of the following South Asian countries?

    a) Thailand

    b) Myanmar

    c) Laos

    d) Vietnam

    Inspired by: [op-ed snap] Thirty years after the 8888 uprising

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/op-ed-snap-thirty-years-after-the-8888-uprising/

    Q.2) Which of the given statements about Prime Ministers Research Fellowship programme is not correct?

    a) It is aimed at incentivising doctoral (PhD) programs of Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and Indian Institute of Science (IISc).

    b) Students from any government engineering colleges are eligible to get this fellowship.

    c) It is based on PPP Model.

    d) It is an initiative of HRD Ministry.

    Inspired by: [pib] Prime Minister’s Research Fellows (PMRF) Scheme covers entire country

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-prime-ministers-research-fellows-pmrf-scheme-covers-entire-country/

    Q.3) Exercise Maitree is a joint military exercise between which of the following countries?

    a) Nepal

    b) Bhutan

    c) Thailand

    d) Myanmar

    Inspired by: [pib] Indo – Thailand Joint Exercise Maitree 2018

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/pib-indo-thailand-joint-exercise-maitree-2018/

    Q.4) Sharda Prasad Committee is related to which of the following issues?

    a) Financing to MSMEs

    b) Modifying curriculum in Higher technical institutions

    c) Discontinuing No-detention Policy

    d) Functioning of Skill sector

    Inspired by: [op-ed snap] Rebooting the system for a skills upgrade

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/op-ed-snap-rebooting-the-system-for-a-skills-upgrade/

    Q.5) Consider the following statement about RISECREEK:

    1. It is the indigenously developed microprocessor under Project Shakti of IIT Madras.

    2. It is indigenously manufactured in India.

    3. It is capable of meeting the demands of defence and strategic equipment such as NAVIC (Indian Regional Navigation Satellite) and the Internet of Things (IoT) electronics.

    Which of the following statements is/are correct?

    a) 1 and 2

    b) 2 and 3

    c) 1 and 3

    d) All are correct.

    Inspired by: IIT-Madras powers up a desi chip

    https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/iit-madras-powers-up-a-desi-chip/

    For Solutions – Click Here

    Prelims Daily Archive – Click here