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100 years of Rampa or Manyam Rebellion
Hundred years ago, in August 1922 the “Rampa Rebellion” or “Manyam Rebellion” took place in the forests of the Godavari Agency in the Madras Presidency.

Rampa Rebellion
- The Rampa Rebellion of 1922, also known as the Manyam Rebellion, was a tribal uprising led by Alluri Sitarama Raju in Godavari Agency.
- It began in August 1922 and lasted until the capture and killing of Raju in May 1924.
- Forced labour, embargoes on collecting minor forest produce and bans on tribal agriculture practices led to severe distress among the Koyas in the area.
- Sitarama Raju did not belong to the tribal community, but understood the restrictions that the British colonial administration placed on the tribal way of life.
Background of the revolt
- The Rampa administrative area comprised around 1,800 square km and had a mostly tribal population of approximately 28,000.
- They had traditionally been able to support their food requirements through the use, in particular, of the podu system, whereby each year some areas of jungle forest were burned to clear land for cultivation.
- The British Raj authorities had wanted to improve the economic usefulness of lands in Godavari Agency, an area that was noted for the prevalence of malaria and blackwater fever.
- The traditional cultivation methods were greatly hindered when the authorities took control of the forests, mostly for commercial purposes such as produce for building railways and ships.
- This was done regardless of the needs of the tribal people.
Why did people revolt?
- The tribal people of the forested hills, who now faced starvation had long felt that the legal system favoured the muttadar (estate landowners) and merchants.
- This had also resulted in the earlier Rampa Rebellion of 1879.
- Now they objected also to the Raj laws and continued actions that hindered their economic position and meant they had to find alternate livelihood.
- They objected to attempts at that time to use them as forced labour in the construction of a road in the area.
Role of Raju
- Raju was a charismatic sanyasin, believed by many tribal people to possess magical abilities and to have an almost messianic status.
- He saw the overthrow of colonial rule in terms similar to a millenarian event and he harnessed the discontent of the tribal people to support his anti-colonial zeal.
Course of revolt
- Alluri Sitarama Raju, along with 500 tribal people, attacked the police stations of Chintapalli, Krishnadevipeta and Rajavommangi.
- They walked away with 26 police carbine rifles and 2,500 rounds of ammunition.
- Legend has it that Alluri himself would forewarn the British officers of an imminent attack and would challenge them to stop him with the superior resources that they had at hand.
- He was finally captured, tied to a tree and shot dead.
Try this PYQ:

Q. With reference to the history of India, “Ulgulan” or the Great Tumult is the description of which of the following event?

(a) The Revolt of 1857

(b) The Mappila Rebellion of 1921

(c) The Indigo Revolt of 1859-60

(d) Birsa Munda’s Revolt of 1899-1900

Post your answers here.

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July 4, 2022
Researchers found gene regulating Nitrogen absorption in Plant
Researchers led by those from the National Centre of Biological Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Bengaluru (NCBS-TIFR), have found a new pathway that regulates nitrate absorption in plants.

Nitrogen in plant nutrition
- Nitrogen is one of the most important macronutrients needed for development of a plant.
- It is a part of chlorophyll, amino acids and nucleic acids, among others.
- It is mostly sourced from the soil where it is mainly absorbed in the form of nitrates and ammonium by the roots.
- Nitrates also play a role in controlling genome-wide gene expression that in turn regulates root system architecture, flowering time, leaf development, etc.
- Thus, while a lot of action takes place in the roots to absorb and convert nitrogen into useful nitrates, the absorbed nitrates in turn regulate plant development apart from being useful as a macronutrient.
What is MADS27?
- The gene MADS27, which regulates nitrate absorption, root development and stress tolerance, is activated by the micro-RNA, miR444, therefore offers a way to control these properties of the plant.
- The researchers studied this mechanism in both rice (monocot) and tobacco (dicot) plants.
Regulatory switches
- In addition to this route, several gene regulatory switches that regulate nitrate absorption and root development, such as the micro-RNA, miR444, are known in monocot plants, such as rice.
- The micro-RNA ‘miR444’ is specific to monocots.
- When this is not made, its target, MADS27, is produced in higher abundance, and it improves biosynthesis and transport of the hormone auxin, which is key for root development and its branching.
- This regulatory miR444 switch is known to turn off at least five genes called MADS box transcription factor genes.
- The speciality of the MADS box transcription factors is that they function like switch boxes of their own.
- They bind to their favourite specific DNA sequences and they switch the neighbouring genes “on.”
Why is the discovery important?
- Presence of nitrates is important for the plant development and also for grain production.
- However, the overuse of nitrates in fertilizers, for instance, can lead to the dumping of nitrates in the soil which leads to accumulation of nitrates in water and soil.
- This accumulation adds to soil and water pollution and increased contribution to greenhouse gases.
- Also, since the whole process of nitrate absorption takes place in the roots, a well-developed root system is needed for this to take place optimally.
- At one level, it is known that the hormone auxin is responsible for well-developed roots across all plants.
- A number of genes are known to help with auxin production, improved nitrate transport and assimilation in plants.
Significance of MADS27
- The MADS27 transcription factor has a three-pronged effect on the plant.
- First, it regulates nitrate absorption by switching “on” proteins involved in this process.
- Second, it leads to better development of the roots by regulating auxin hormone production and transport.
- Finally, and somewhat surprisingly to the researchers, it helps in the abiotic stress tolerance by keeping the main stress player proteins “on.”
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July 4, 2022
Mayurbhanj’s superfood ‘Ant Chutney’
The Kai Chutney made from Red Ants by the tribals of Mayurbhanj district in Odisha are seeking a Geographical Indications (GI) tag.

Ant Chutney
- Despite this, weaver ants are popular among the people, mostly of the tribes,
- This food item, rich in proteins, calcium, zinc, vitamin B-12, iron, magnesium, potassium, sodium, copper, fibre and 18 amino acids, is known to boost the immune system and keep diseases at bay.
- Applied under food category, the GI tag will help develop a structured hygiene protocol in the preparation of Kai chutney for standard wider use.
- Geographical Indications labels enhance the reputation and value of local products and support local businesses.
How is the Chutney prepared?
- Weaver ants, Oecophylla smaragdina, are abundantly found in Mayurbhanj throughout the year.
- They make nests with leaves of host trees.
- The chutney is prepared by mixing and grinding salt, ginger, garlic and chilly and is sold by tribal people in rural markets.
Answer this PYQ in the comment box:

Q.Which of the following has/have been accorded ‘Geographical Indication’ status?
1. Banaras Brocades and Sarees
2. Rajasthani Daal-Bati-Churma
3. Tirupathi Laddu
Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Post your answers here.
Back2Basics: Geographical Indication
- A GI is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin.
- Nodal Agency: Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry
- India, as a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO), enacted the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 w.e.f. September 2003.
- GIs have been defined under Article 22 (1) of the WTO Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) Agreement.
- GI is granted for a term of 10 years in India. As of today, more than 300 GI tags has been allocated so far in India (*Wikipedia).
- The tag stands valid for 10 years.
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July 4, 2022

Abhijit Ray, AIR 50, UPSC 2021

“We must never forget the lonely non-glamorous long hard work behind success”. It’s not a success story of ‘Proving’. It’s a story of ‘Improving’.

Hi Guys, Abhijit Ray secured AIR 50 in UPSC-CSE 2021. Let’s have a glimpse of his journey.

Table of Content

About Abhijit- his UPSC journey + Hobbies
Family and education
UPSC Preparation strategy
Abhijit’s Notes and Booklist
Motivation and Inspiration

1. About Abhijit- His UPSC journey + Hobbies

Name	Abhijit Ray
UPSC	2021
Rank	AIR 50
No. of Attempts	4
Attempt in 2018	couldn’t clear Prelims
2019	failed prelims again
2020	couldn’t clear Mains
2021	AIR-50. Get in Final Merit list.
Optional Subject	Anthropology (in all the attempts)
Hobby	Composing Poem & recreational cycling

“Never overestimate yourself and don’t think that even a non-serious effort will take you through”.

Went to several villages in Karnataka as a volunteer. That is the turning point in Abhijit’s life. He decided to work for them after seeing the pictures of the village. The answer came to mind — Civil Service.

Abhijit Roy was an engineer by profession. After passing, he got a job in a first-class company in Bangalore. From the very beginning of his career, he was associated with the soil. He went to several villages in Karnataka as a volunteer for the CSR activities of the organisation he worked for. That is the turning point in life.

But how? Going to inform you that, Abhijit mentioned an incident. He said, ‘I once went to a blind school in Karnataka. I saw that there is no basic facility. But not that it is very difficult to give. It will be done if you see a little. ‘ He had several such experiences.

2. Family and education

Father	Mukul Charan Roy, a retired health official in Darjeeling
Mother	Dr. Chandra Roy, a homeopathic practitioner.
Education	a) Completed schooling from St. Joseph’s School b) Completed Graduate Engineering from University in Delhi.

His father and mother gave him their full support through all thick and thins. Although they were dubious about his leaving job for UPSC preparation initially, they stood beside him later on.

3. UPSC Preparation Strategy

Earlier failures taught Abhijit many priceless lessons. He shared his hard-earned experience separately for Prelims and Mains.

Preparation Strategy for UPSC Prelims:

Practice, Practice and Practice. Abhijit couldn’t clear prelims in first 2 attempts because his practice was not sufficient.
PYQs: It is always helpful to have a good idea of the core areas of the question topics from the previous years papers.
Practicing Mock tests: UPSC prelims is a game of intelligent guessing rather than bookish knowledge. So, never ignore test series. Because test series can only help you to mend your mistakes.
Time & energy mustn’t be wasted on digesting more than 1 newspaper.
Revision & Consolidation: Revision is extremely important for all stages of the exam. Consolidating your studies is probably more important than reading new sources.
It’s better to talk with a senior IAS mentor, if you’re novice.

Preparation Strategy for UPSC Mains:

Guidance: Do proceed your journey under the guidance of mentors at least in initial days.
Mains Prep: must be carried simultaneously with prelims. Answer writing practice is that skill that resolves everything.
Studying a lot new mains stuff after prelims must be avoided. Focus only on revision and improving answers quality.
Essay & Optional papers: These papers are game changing. In GS papers almost every candidate scores the same. So, the decider of your ALL INDIA RANK is them.
UPSC Main is the higher bar to cross so, selecting right sources, evaluation of answers, and hand-holding support are the key to success.

4. Abhijit’s Notes + Booklist

5. Motivation and Inspiration

Abhijit is used to be a self-motivated person. Once he went to a blind school in Karnataka. The difficulty and hardship of the natives moved him deeply. It was his inspiration that he wanted to do something for their betterment.

Besides his parents, he didn’t forget to mention about his office manager. He also inspired Abhijit time to time. Abhijit received influx of congrats after getting into final merit list 2021. He cordially thanked to his teachers & mentors.

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July 4, 2022

4th July 2022 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

[WpProQuiz 1051]

[WpProQuiz_toplist 1051]

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July 4, 2022
2nd July 2022 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

[WpProQuiz 1050]

[WpProQuiz_toplist 1050]

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July 4, 2022
(Live Now) | Fix your doubts in Mega Session with Manoj Hegde, CD’s (UPSC-2021) Topper | Talk 1-1, Discuss & Learn | Register free – Get their notes, resources, and Civilsdaily special Prelims package

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Mains is the most crucial stage of the UPSC exam. Because your knowledge is tested through your answers. Pain is that it’s also becoming more and more unpredictable, analytical, and dynamic in nature than ever before. So, you have to grow the art of articulating your thoughts on paper as per questions demand, or a disaster is waiting to happen.

Studying and writing answers is a symbiotic relationship and one reinforces the other. And the good news is our ‘Mains Essential Program 2023’ is a Mentor guided comprehensive and intensive program for GS Mains papers.

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July 3, 2022
How the RBI unconventionally innovated policy to fight the pandemic
Context

Recently, the RBI has been at the receiving end for mission the inflation target.

Understanding the RBI’s rationale
- Supply side shock: Inflation has been largely the result of supply side shocks from vegetable prices, caused by crop damages due to unseasonal rains (tomato, onion and potato) in late 2019 and widespread supply-side disruptions after the outbreak of the pandemic.
- A narrow-minded focus on inflation caused by supply shocks would have constrained the MPC from supporting growth amidst the unprecedented loss of life and livelihood.
- Focusing on recovery: Therefore, it was necessary to provide a lifeline to the economy at that juncture by focusing on the recovery.
- Moreover, the wide tolerance band of 200bps +/- in the inflation targeting framework was specifically designed to accommodate such supply shocks, which provided the flexibility in the flexible targeting (FIT) framework.
- Taking into account objective of growth: In contrast to a pure inflation targeting framework (inflation nutters), the amended mandate of the RBI under FIT reads as “price stability, taking into account the objective of growth”.
- Therefore, the MPC was justified in looking through the higher inflation print during the pandemic while trying to resurrect growth.
No contradiction between Governor’s statement and MPC resolution
- Recently, the MPC highlighted inflation concerns and voted to raise the policy repo rate.
- The governor’s statement of the same day noted that the RBI will ensure an orderly completion of the government’s borrowing programme.
- Contradictory objectives: It is said that the above two actions created confusion as lowering inflation and lowering government bond yields are contradictory objectives.
- This justification is redundant as an orderly completion of the borrowing programme does not imply lowering yields.
- It basically ensures that the borrowing programme is completed seamlessly at low costs (ensured through auctions).
- Moreover, from a theoretical perspective, this is not inconsistent because controlling inflation and lowering inflation expectations bodes well for the term premia of bond yields — which moderate once expectations are anchored.
- Therefore, if inflation is reined in, the government stands to gain in terms of lower interest costs.
- Was width of corridor lost during pandemic? It is argued that the MPC kept repo rates unchanged while the RBI changed the reverse repo rate during the pandemic, meaning that the fixed width of the corridor was lost and the MPC lost its role in setting interest rates and so, its credibility.
- This argument does not stand scrutiny.
- During the pandemic, the policy repo rate was cumulatively reduced by an unprecedented 115 bps and the interest rate on the overnight fixed-rate reverse repo was reduced cumulatively by 155 bps.
- Assymetric corridor justified in crises: This measure was not incongruous with contemporary wisdom as an asymmetric corridor has been justified, particularly during crisis times (Goodhart, 2010).
- Given that elevated inflation concerns precluded the possibility of any further repo rate cuts (cumulatively reduced by 250 basis points since February 2019), financial conditions were eased substantially by reducing the reverse repo rate, which lowered the floor rate of interest in the economy.
- Since the mandate of the MPC is to control inflation for which the policy instrument is the repo rate, the RBI had used the LAF through changes in the reverse repo rate to alter liquidity conditions.
Trade offs involved in inflation targeting for emerging economies
- Inflation-targeting countries, because of their sole focus on inflation, experience lower inflation volatility but higher output volatility.
- Higher output volatility entails a higher sacrifice ratio — the proportion of output foregone for lowering inflation.
- For an emerging economy, the costs of higher output foregone against the benefits of lower inflation must always be balanced as potential output keeps on changing given the shift of the production function.
- Developed countries, on the other hand, operate near full employment — therefore, sacrifice ratios are lower.
- As a result, smoothening inflation volatility is relatively costless for them.
Conclusion

The RBI has innovated admirably under its current stewards during the pandemic, keeping in mind the task of reinvigorating the economy. Despite the existing targeting framework, it did not get fixated on a one-point agenda, daring to look beyond the inflation print.

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Back2Basics: Liquidity corridor
- The Corridor in monetary policy of the RBI refers to the area between the reverse repo rate and the MSF rate.
- Reverse repo rate will be the lowest of the policy rates whereas Marginal Standing Facility is something like an upper ceiling with a higher rate than the repo rate.
- The MSF rate and reverse repo rate determine the corridor for the daily movement in the weighted average call money rate.
July 2, 2022
*Sukanya Ma’am is LIVE now- join her:- *Zoom link inside | UPSC-Mains Special 1-1 & QnA Live Discussion with CD’s *Mains Program Head | How to Plan GS by making notes | Basic structure of answers | Register & Get Mains special FREE package

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Sukanya Rana Ma’am, CD’s Mains Program Head is going to 1-1 Live discussion on strategy for the next 6 months…making schedules…how to plan GS….making notes…how to write mains answers…basic structure, Etc.

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Mains is the most crucial stage of the UPSC exam. Because your knowledge is tested through your answers. Pain is that it’s also becoming more and more unpredictable, analytical, and dynamic in nature than ever before. So, you have to grow the art of articulating your thoughts on paper as per questions demand, or a disaster is waiting to happen.

Studying and writing answers is a symbiotic relationship and one reinforces the other. And the good news is our ‘Mains Essential Program 2023’ is a Mentor guided comprehensive and intensive program for GS Mains papers.

CD’s Hand-holding MEP Program

About Mentor:

Sukanya Rana:

Sukanya ma’am has firsthand experience of 4 mains and 2 interviews of UPSC. In 2019, she scored 140 in ethics. She has also appeared in the State PCS interview. Before she has worked as a Probationary officer in Canara bank. Now at Civilsdaily, she heads Mains program and engaged in core team of Civilsdaily.

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July 2, 2022
What are G-Sec Yields?
Government Securities (G-Secs) yields are at an all-time high.

What are G-Secs?
- These are debt instruments issued by the government to borrow money.
- The two key categories are:
1. Treasury bills (T-Bills) – short-term instruments which mature in 91 days, 182 days, or 364 days, and
2. Dated securities – long-term instruments, which mature anywhere between 5 years and 40 years
Note: T-Bills are issued only by the central government, and the interest on them is determined by market forces.

Why G-Secs?
- Like bank fixed deposits, g-secs are not tax-free.
- They are generally considered the safest form of investment because they are backed by the government. So, the risk of default is almost nil.
- However, they are not completely risk-free, since they are subject to fluctuations in interest rates.
- Bank fixed deposits, on the other hand, are guaranteed only to the extent of Rs 5 lakh by the Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation (DICGC).
How are G-sec yields calculated?
- G-sec yields change over time; often several times during a single day.
- This happens because of the manner in which G-secs are structured.
- Every G-sec has a face value, a coupon payment and price.
- The price of the bond may or may not be equal to the face value of the bond.
- Here’s an example: Suppose the government floats a 10-year G-sec with a face value of Rs 100 and a coupon payment of Rs 5.
- If one were to buy this single G-sec from the government, it would mean that one will give Rs 100 to the government today and the government will promises to 1) return the sum of Rs 100 at the end of tenure (10 years), and 2) pay Rs 5 each year until the end of this tenure.
- At this point, the face value of this G-sec is equal to its price, and its yield (or the effective interest rate) is 5%.
How do G-sec yields go up and down?
- Imagine a scenario in which the government floats just one G-sec, and two people want to buy it.
- Competitive bidding will ensue, and the price of the bond may rise from Rs 100 (its face value) to Rs 105.
- Now imagine another lender in the picture, which pushes the price further up to Rs 110.
What do G-sec yields show?
- If G-sec yields (say for a 10-year bond) are going up, it would imply that lenders are demanding even more from private sector firms or individuals; that’s because anyone else is riskier when compared to the government.
- It is also known that when it comes to lending, interest rates rise with the rise in risk profile.
- As such, if G-sec yields start going up, it means lending to the government is becoming riskier.
- If you read that the G-sec yields are going up, it suggests that the bond prices are falling. But the prices are falling because fewer people want to lend to the government.
- And that in turn happens when people are worried about the government’s finances (or its ability to pay back).
- The government’s finances may be in trouble because the economy is faltering and it is unlikely that the government will meet its expenses.
- By the reverse logic, if a government’s finances are sorted, more and more people want to lend money to such a G-sec.
- This in turn, leads to bond prices going up and yields coming down.
Try this PYQ:

Consider the following statements:
1. The Reserve Bank of India manages and services the Government of India Securities but not any State Government Securities.
2. Treasury bills are issued by the Government of India and there are no treasury bills issued by the State Governments.
3. Treasury bills offer are issued at a discount from the par value.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 3 Only

(c) 2 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Post your answers here.
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July 2, 2022
GST revenues surpass ₹1.44 lakh crore
India recorded its second-highest monthly gross GST revenues in June at ₹1,44,616 crore, 56% more than a year earlier when the second COVID wave had hit economic activity.

What is GST?
- GST is an indirect tax that has replaced many indirect taxes in India such as excise duty, VAT, services tax, etc.
- The Goods and Service Tax Act was passed in Parliament on 29th March 2017 and came into effect on 1st July 2017. It is a single domestic indirect tax law for the entire country.
- It is a comprehensive, multi-stage, destination-based tax that is levied on every value addition.
- Under the GST regime, the tax is levied at every point of sale. In the case of intra-state sales, Central GST and State GST are charged. All the inter-state sales are chargeable to the Integrated GST.
Answer this PYQ in the comment box:

Q.All revenues received by the Union. Government by way of taxes and other receipts for the conduct of Government business are credited to the (CSP 2015):

(a) Contingency Fund of India

(b) Public Account

(c) Consolidated Fund of India

(d) Deposits and Advances Fund

Post your answers here.

What are the components of GST?

There are three taxes applicable under this system:
1. CGST: It is the tax collected by the Central Government on an intra-state sale (e.g., a transaction happening within Maharashtra)
2. SGST: It is the tax collected by the state government on an intra-state sale (e.g., a transaction happening within Maharashtra)
3. IGST: It is a tax collected by the Central Government for an inter-state sale (e.g., Maharashtra to Tamil Nadu)
Advantages Of GST
- GST has mainly removed the cascading effect on the sale of goods and services.
- Removal of the cascading effect has impacted the cost of goods.
- Since the GST regime eliminates the tax on tax, the cost of goods decreases.
- Also, GST is mainly technologically driven.
- All the activities like registration, return filing, application for refund and response to notice needs to be done online on the GST portal, which accelerates the processes.
Issues with GST
- High operational cost
- GST has given rise to complexity for many business owners across the nation.
- GST has received criticism for being called a ‘Disability Tax’ as it now taxes articles such as braille paper, wheelchairs, hearing aid etc.
- Petrol is not under GST, which goes against the ideals of the unification of commodities.
Take a look at the share of GST in government earnings for the previous fiscal:

UPSC can ask about the majority component of the Revenue Receipts of the govt. See how Corporate tax is nearing the GST revenues.

Do you think it will surpass GST revenue when the economy is fully recovered?

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July 2, 2022
DRDO tests Autonomous Flying Wing Technology Demonstrator
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully carried out the maiden test flight of a new Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), an autonomous Flying Wing Technology Demonstrator, from the Aeronautical Test Range, Chitradurga, Karnataka.

About the Indigenous Drone
- The Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) is powered by a small turbofan engine.
- It is developed under unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) programme.
- It is designed and developed by Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE), Bengaluru, a premier research laboratory of DRDO.
- The engine is Russian TRDD-50MT originally designed for cruise missiles.
- A small turbo fan engine is being developed indigenously for meeting the requirement.
Various initiatives by DRDO
- DRDO is in the process of developing UAVs of different classes to met the requirements of the armed forces.
- Rustom-2, the indigenous Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) UAV under development, had crossed a milestone by reaching an altitude of 25,000 feet and an endurance of 10 hours.
- It is now being designed to reach an altitude of 30,000 feet and 18 hours endurance.
- An Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle is also on the drawing board.
Significance of the development
- Operating in a fully autonomous mode, the aircraft exhibited a perfect flight, including take-off, way point navigation and a smooth touchdown.
- This flight marks a major milestone in terms of proving critical technologies towards the development of future unmanned aircraft.
- This is a significant step towards self-reliance in strategic defence technologies.
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July 2, 2022
[pib] Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI)
The Union Cabinet has approved the categorization of the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) as an ‘International Organization’.

What is the news?
- The cabinet also signed as the Headquarters Agreement (HQA) with CDRI for granting it the exemptions, immunities and privileges as contemplated under the United Nations (Privileges & Immunities) Act, 1947.
- This will provide CDRI an independent and international legal persona so that it can efficiently and effectively carry out its functions internationally.
What is CDRI?
- The CDRI is an international coalition of countries, UN agencies, multilateral development banks, the private sector, and academic institutions that aim to promote disaster-resilient infrastructure.
- Its objective is to promote research and knowledge sharing in the fields of infrastructure risk management, standards, financing, and recovery mechanisms.
- It was launched by the Indian PM Narendra Modi at the 2019 UN Climate Action Summit in September 2019.
- CDRI’s initial focus is on developing disaster-resilience in ecological, social, and economic infrastructure.
- It aims to achieve substantial changes in member countries’ policy frameworks and future infrastructure investments, along with a major decrease in the economic losses suffered due to disasters.
Its inception
- PM Modi’s experience in dealing with the aftermath of the 2001 Gujarat earthquake” as the chief minister led him to the idea.
- The CDRI was later conceptualized in the first and second edition of the International Workshop on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (IWDRI) in 2018-19.
- It was organized by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), in partnership with the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), the UN Development Programme, the World Bank, and the Global Commission on Adaptation.
Its diplomatic significance
- The CDRI is the second major coalition launched by India outside of the UN, the first being the International Solar Alliance.
- Both of them are seen as India’s attempts to obtain a global leadership role in climate change matters and were termed as part of India’s stronger branding.
- India can use the CDRI to provide a safer alternative to China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) as well.
Why designated as International Organization?
- Deputing experts to other countries
- Deploying funds globally and receive contributions from member countries
- Making available technical expertise to assist countries
- Imparting assistance to countries in adopting appropriate risk governance arrangements and strategies for resilient infrastructure
- Aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Paris Climate Agreement and the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction
- Leveraging international engagement to foster disaster-resilient infrastructure at home; and,
- Providing Indian scientific and technical institution as well as infrastructure developers an opportunity to interact with global experts.
Try this PYQ:

Q.Consider the following statements:
1. Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) to Reduce Short Lived Climate Pollutants is a unique initiative of G20 group of countries
2. The CCAC focuses on methane, black carbon and hydrofluorocarbons.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Post your answers here.
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July 2, 2022
Festivals in news: Puri Rath Yatra
Lakhs of devotees thronged the coastal town of Puri town to witness the annual Rath Yatra with three decorated chariots of sibling deities Lord Balabhadra, Lord Jagannath and Devi Subhadra towed in front of the 12th century Shree Jagannath Temple.

About Jagannath Rath Yatra
- Ratha Jatra, the Festival of Chariots of Lord Jagannatha is celebrated every year at Puri, the temple town in Orissa, on the east coast of India.
- It involves a public procession with a chariot with deities Jagannath (Vishnu avatar), BalaBhadra (his brother), Subhadra (his sister) and Sudarshana Chakra (his weapon) on a ratha, a wooden deula-shaped chariot.
- The huge, colourfully decorated chariots, are drawn by hundreds and thousands of devotees on the bada danda, the grand avenue to the Gundicha temple, some two miles away to the North.
- It attracts over a million Hindu pilgrims who join the procession each year.
Back2Basics: Puri Temple Architecture
- Jagannath Temple is a very big temple and covers an area of 37000m2. The height of the outer wall is 6.1m.
- It is surrounded by a high fortified wall 6.1 m high is known as Meghanada Pacheri.
- The main portion of the temple is also surrounded by a wall known as Kurma Bheda.
- The temple is built in Rekha Deula style and has four distinct sectional structures, namely –
1. Deula, Vimana or Garba griha (Sanctum sanctorum) where the triad deities are lodged on the ratnavedi (Throne of Pearls)
2. Mukhashala (Frontal porch)
3. Nata mandir/Natamandapa, which is also known as the Jagamohan (Audience Hall/Dancing Hall), and
4. Bhoga Mandapa (Offerings Hall)
Try this question from CSP 2019:

Q.Building ‘Kalyaana Mandapas’ was a notable feature in the temple construction in the kingdom of-

(a) Chalukya (b) Chandela (c) Rashtrakuta (d) Vijayanagara

Post your answers here.

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July 2, 2022
AIR-12, Yasharth is LIVE now: join him (*Zoom link inside) 1-1 LIVE session with CD’s (UPSC-2021) Topper | Register free for their notes, resources, and Civilsdaily special Prelims package

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👉And UPSC Mains Special 1-1 QnA Session with Sukanya Ma’am, Mains Head:- Details of strategy for the next 6 months…making schedules…how to plan Gs….making notes…how to write mains answer…basic structure.

Timing: 5 P.M (2nd July, Saturday)

click:- register for Special 1-1 QnA Session with Sukanya Ma’am | How to plan gs by makig notes | Details of strategy for the next 6 months

Contact Email: sukanya@civilsdaily.com

We are bringing our ‘Hall of Fame’ toppers who have taken multiple attempts, faced failures, changed strategies, applied, and executed to perfection. To achieve this feat there is a lot of hard work, perseverance, and turmoil which goes behind the making of these toppers and achievers. Due to their accomplishments, these toppers are a goldmine of UPSC prep wisdom.

This is going to be a Mega session in which you will be talking 1-1 with these toppers. Asking them questions and doubts, getting them resolved. Moreover, these toppers will be sharing their notes, resources, and strategy with you.

CivilsDaily has also made a special Prelims Package for you aspirants. On registration, you will be getting access to the package.

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AIR 12, UPSC 2021, Yasharth Shekhar will be coming to CivilsDaily’s Delhi Center – 2nd July 2022, 12 noon

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About our Toppers

Yaksh Choudhary, AIR 06, UPSC 2021

Yaksh hails from Amroha, Uttar Pradesh and belongs to a family involved in agriculture. He is an IIT Guwahati alumnus and has been working as an assistant commandant in CRPF. This was Yaksh’s third attempt in UPSC CSE. His optional was Sociology and he had been a college level athlete. He believes trust in the process, studying with interest, understanding, and conceptual clarity are the keys to preparation.

Yasharth Shekhar, AIR 12, UPSC 2021

Yasharth Shekhar hails from Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh and becoming an IAS officer is his childhood dream. He is a St. Stephens graduate in Economics. This was his third attempt and his optional was Geography. Yasharth was not able to clear Prelims in his first attempt but he believes there is no shortcut to success and his hard work and dedication got him AIR 12.

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July 2, 2022
How to become an IAS officer
Your presence over her echos your dream of an IAS officer. To become an IAS officer, Indian youths have to fulfill only 3 conditions:
- Get a graduate degree
- Clear the UPSC-CSE exam
- Complete training successfully
Passing the UPSC exam is not simple, many obstacles may be suffered during the process of the assessment. Even a serious aspirant without a hand-holding strategy, uncompromising attitude, and proper guidance may fail.

As we all know, the IAS examination is one of the toughest and most challenging tests among the other assessments. A UPSC student needs to be directed and determined towards their goal. A prosperous competitor is not just a well-prepared one but also the one who can nourish their courage levels throughout the procedure.

Important Links:
UPSC IAS Exam Syllabus
IAS Exam pattern

Qualification

Despite being one of the toughest exams in the country, the UPSC Civil Service IAS exam can sit with the simplest educational background. And the good news is that you can appear even before completing the minimum qualification. Okay, let’s see in detail:

EDUCATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED
- All candidates must have as a minimum one of the following educational qualifications:
- A degree from a Central, State, or a Deemed university.
- A degree received through correspondence or distance education.
- A degree from an open university.
- A qualification recognized by the Government of India as being equivalent to one of the above
The following candidates are also eligible, but must submit proof of their eligibility from a competent authority at their institute/university at the time of the main examination, failing which they will not be allowed to attend the exam:
- Candidates who have appeared in an examination, the passing of which would render them educationally qualified enough to satisfy one of the above points.
- Candidates who have passed the final exam of the MBBS degree but have not yet completed an internship.
- Candidates who have passed the final exam of ICAI, ICSI, and ICWAI.
- A degree from a private university.
- A degree from any foreign university recognized by the Association of Indian Universities
AGE LIMIT
- The candidate must be between the age of 21-32 years (for the General category candidate) on August 1 of the year of examination. However, age relaxations die to exist for SC, ST, OBC, and Physically Handicapped candidates.
- For Other Backward Castes (OBC) the upper age limit is 35.
- For Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST), the limit is 37 years.
- The upper age limit is relaxed for certain candidates who are backward with respect to other factors and physically handicapped (PH) people.
Personalized Education

After knowing the syllabus of the exam, what is needed is your personalized education. For the most personalized learning, coaching is the only temple for both beginners and veterans. If you aren’t comfortable, at least get a personalized mentor for a seamless journey. To become an IAS, your preparation must be free from doubts.

Administrative attitude

Besides smart preparation, an administrative attitude should be built up in you. The power of observing the social glitch, and finding the immediate solution is also virtual eligibility. So, pursue in such a way that education breeds morale. Morale breeds hope. Hope breeds calmness.

Creation of smart content

The focus ought to be on making yourself understand the requirement of the UPSC Mains Question, its elements, using information, and imparting answer writing skills for that.

Self-confidence, healthy mind, clear-sightedness.

Self-reliance maintains time management. Managing your time judiciously breeds a healthy mind. When you evolve ‘hardworking’, ‘enthusiast’, ‘social acumen, you will fall in love with the IAS career. Get power-packed living confidence, Become an IAS.

click:- fill up samanvay form and get your personalized mentor
July 1, 2022
Free Entry: Limited Seats | Registrations open for Mega Seminar at Kale Auditorium, Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics, Pune | UPSC + MPSC Preparation Strategy | Aspirants from Maharashtra are Invited | Meet our Toppers from Maharashtra | Register Now

Click and Register for a 1-1 meet and discussion with Rankers and Sajal sir

UPSC 2021 results were released a few days back and it was a major validation of CivilsDaily’s student-centric approach, personalized mentorship, and commitment to your goal – cracking the UPSC IAS exam.

..amazing observation was the overwhelming number of rankers from Maharashtra.

This was evident from 200+ rankers, including 30+ in the top 50 in the UPSC 2021 exam. Another amazing observation was the overwhelming number of rankers from Maharashtra.

Moreover, we have thousands of CivilsDaily students from the state.

On the insistence of CivilsDaily’s alumni (ex-rankers) and our students from the state, we will be opening our first center in Maharashtra very soon, in Pune.

How is Pune center going to help UPSC and Civil Services Aspirants from Maharashtra?

Saves you from the trauma of relocation

Aspirants have to leave their home state to Delhi, Karol Bagh for UPSC prep. It seriously dismantles their mental peace and continuity in preparation.

Now you no longer have to leave your state and come to Delhi for UPSC preparation.

Financially

Financially, by saving huge expenditure incurred in Karol Bagh on renting and tuition fees.

Now prepare for both: UPSC and MPSC

Recently the notification for MPSC was released and since the pattern is similar to UPSC now, we will be helping you prepare for MPSC as well.

Live lectures, Offline 1:1 Mentorship, Testing centre in Pune

We will be providing the best classroom lectures; UPSC-relevant tests and study material; experienced mentors and dedicated faculty.

CivilsDaily will always remain committed to a personalized and student-centric approach and will live for its vision of making UPSC and government service exam preparation simpler, effective, result-oriented, and affordable to every aspiring student.

Meet up in Pune Offline center: Sajal sir and UPSC Rankers from Maharashtra

Get a golden chance to meet and discuss 1-1 with Rankers and Sajal sir at Pune center.

Click and Register for a 1-1 meet and discussion with Rankers and Sajal sir

Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics, the alma mater of Sajal sir and some of the UPSC rankers from CivilsDaily has acknowledged the good work and has requested us to be hosted by the esteemed institute.

You can meet Sajal sir and rankers.

Venue:

Kale Auditorium

Gokhale Institute, Pune

Date: 5th July

Time: 3pm and 6pm

Feel free to call/whatsapp for any clarification or details: +91 8668582260.

We are all the more motivated now to churn out more and more rankers from Maharashtra.

July 1, 2022
Crack Prelims in 1st Attempt
with carefully designed Smash Prelims Course

85% of Smash Prelims 2022 students of Civilsdaily are writing Mains this year. Take the first step towards your UPSC dreams.

Register for the Program

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More than a Crash Course for UPSC Prelims 2023

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You don’t have time to read everything, nor do you have time to make notes.

With just 5 months left for the exam Smash Prelims 2023: January Edition is what you need.

Target 120+ marks in UPSC GS Prelims paper, 100+ in UPSC CSAT prelims with an overall accuracy of 90% with Smash Prelims program

Mentorship by Santosh sir: Highly experienced and has an excellent record

Beat the unpredictability of UPSC with 6 PILLARED APPROACH

Pillar-1: 60 Prelims test (GS + CSAT) Evidence-based UPSC patterned questions

It is the best UPSC Prelims test series based on the Previous Year paper & PYQ trend analysis + the current pattern of UPSC Prelims
- GS and Current Affairs Prelims Tests: 44 (14 Basic + 8 Advanced + 6 CA tests + 10 Full tests + 16 practice tests
- 6 CSAT test papers to help you target 100+ marks in UPSC Prelims CSAT 2023 paper
- Mandatory mentorship and doubt resolution call after every test
Pillar-2: Syllabus completion – both GS and Current affairs for 1.5 yrs through LIVE Lectures (video available)
- Most important and probable topics will be covered in a timely manner leaving ample time for multiple revisions.
- Special classes on topics including Polity, History, Economics, Geography, Sessions to cover Environment innovatively, Science & Technology and more.
- Previous year questions and paper trend analysis session
- To be done through LIVE lectures, Notes will be shared.
Pillar-3: Mentorship calls

One-to-one mentorship by Santosh sir, core faculty and toppers
- One to one Mentor calls after tests
- Habitat/WhatsApp support from mentors
- Frequent sessions with toppers for support and guidance.
Pillar-4: Weekly zoom session by Santosh Gupta

Doubt clearance, strategy, and continuous improvement

Tavishi failed thrice in the Prelims before but after joining Santosh sir’s mentorship cleared Prelim 2022 on her 4th attempt.

Pillar-5: Learn Question-solving – Imparting skills to attempt and solve Prelims paper
- Targeting an accuracy rate of 90% and attempting maximum questions.
- Strategic Live 1000 Questions solving with Santosh Gupta sir for Prelims-2023
- Learn Art of Question-solving: Using Logical approach + Elimination techniques
- Live Question solving of Previous year’s questions
- Evolving your personal approach for attempting UPSC prelims paper
Pillar-6: Study material, Current Affairs notes, listicles
- Specifically made Current affairs notes + Live classes by core faculty for the entire two years for prelims.
- Comprehensive and exhaustive notes covering everything that is important.
What CivilsDaily’s Smash Prelims students have to say?

Santosh sir’s guidance, a crucial part of the first prelims success for Rahul

A miracle for Debarpita, Smash Prelims 2022 student

Talk 1-1 with Santosh sir for FREE & avail 25% discount

Other messages showering gratitude for Santosh sir and Smash Prelims team
July 1, 2022
Do not weaken the anti-defection law
Context

The political developments in Maharashtra throw up troubling questions about how the political class is weakening the anti-defection law.

Background of the anti-defection law
- It was enacted as the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution of India, in 1985, under Rajiv Gandhi’s premiership.
- The law as it was enacted provided for the disqualification of a legislator belonging to a political party if he voluntarily gave up his membership of his party or if he defied the whip of his party by voting contrary to its directions in the legislative house.
- Two exceptions: Initially, there were two exceptions provided in the schedule which would exempt a legislator from disqualification.
- 1] Split: The first exception was a split in their original political party resulting in the formation of a group of legislators.
- If the group consisted of one third of such legislators of that party, they were exempted from disqualification.
- This exception was deleted from the schedule through a Constitution Amendment Act of 2003 because of frequent misuse.
- 2] Merger: The second exception was ‘merger’ which can be invoked when the original political party of a legislator merges with another party and not less than two thirds of its legislators agree to such a merger.
Interpretation of term ‘merger’ and issues with it
- It is this second exception contained in paragraph four of the schedule which has been taken recourse to by a large number of legislators across States and even in Parliament to defect to the ruling party.
- These legislators interpreted for themselves the term ‘merger’ to mean the merger of two thirds of legislators.
- Now, the same is being repeated in Maharashtra.
- But there is a little difference here.
- It appears that the dissidents of Shiv Sena believed that if they get the two third number they can form a separate group and topple the government and then form a government with the help of the Bharatiya Janata Party.
- The law imposes the condition of merger of the original political party.
- However, a recent judgment of the Goa Bench of the Bombay High Court ( Girish Chodankar vs The Speaker, Goa State Legislative) that held that the merger of two thirds of Members of the Legislative Assembly is deemed to be the merger of the original party seems to have given them a ray of hope.
- So, the legal position is if the dissidents do not merge with another party they will be disqualified now or later.
Question of disqualification
- Disqualification petitions have been filed by the Shiv Sena against 16 of the dissidents under paragraph 2(1)(a) on the ground that they have voluntarily given up the membership of the party.
- The question of whether they have voluntarily given up the membership of the party is decided on the basis of the conduct of a member.
- In Ravi S. Naik vs Union of India (1994), the Supreme Court had said “an inference can be drawn from the conduct of a member that he has voluntarily given up the membership of the party.
Weakening the anti-defection law
- Unprincipled defection: The ongoing developments in Maharashtra have once again brought before the country the reality of what the Supreme Court also described as the political evil of unprincipled defection.
- But the order of the Supreme Court, on June 27, on petitions from the dissidents in the Shiv Sena, gives undue advantage to the dissident legislators.
- The Court has granted them a longer time to submit replies than the rules mandate.
- This order is going to set in motion certain political developments which will resurrect in a big way what the Supreme Court characterised as political evil.
- The intervention by the Supreme Court too has thrown up some crucial question.
- Kihoto Hollohan case: The first question is whether the Court can intervene at a stage prior to the decision by the Deputy Speaker.
- A Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court had held in Kihoto Hollohan (1993) that judicial review cannot be available prior to the making of a decision by the Speaker nor at an interlocutory stage of the proceeding.
- The notice of no-confidence against the Deputy Speaker has added another piece to the jigsaw puzzle.
- Nabam Rebia case: The Supreme Court had held in Nabam Rebia (2016) that the Speaker shall not decide the disqualification cases till the no-confidence motion against him is disposed of.
- The House rules clearly say that the notice of no-confidence against the Speaker/Deputy Speaker needs to be admitted in the first place which is done only by the Speaker.
- But it is the House which takes the final decision on the motion. If the notice of no-confidence does not contain specific charges, it can be disallowed by the Speaker.
- Further, the notice can be given only if the House is summoned.
- When the notice was given, the Assembly was not convened. So, the notice against the Deputy Speaker can have no validity under the rules.
Conclusion

The law, though not perfect, is a serious attempt to strengthen the moral content of democracy. There will be shortcomings in this Bill but as we see and identify those shortcomings we should try to overcome them.

UPSC 2023 countdown has begun! Get your personal guidance plan now! (Click here)
July 1, 2022
Is India really ahead of the West in terms of reproductive rights?
Context

Contrary to the grandstanding since the overturning of the landmark Roe V. Wade judgment, the truth is that India is not ahead of the West in terms of reproductive rights.

Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act
- Abortion in India has been a legal right under various circumstances for the last 50 years with the introduction of Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act in 1971.
- The Act was amended in 2003 to enable women’s accessibility to safe and legal abortion services.
- Abortion is covered 100% by the government’s public national health insurance funds, Ayushman Bharat and Employees’ State Insurance with the package rate for surgical abortion.
The idea of terminating your pregnancy cannot originate by choice and is purely circumstantial. There are four situations under which a legal abortion is performed:
1. If continuation of the pregnancy poses any risks to the life of the mother or mental health
2. If the foetus has any severe abnormalities
3. If pregnancy occurred as a result of failure of contraception (but this is only applicable to married women)
4. If pregnancy is a result of sexual assault or rape
These are the key changes that the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (Amendment) Act, 2021, has brought in:
- The gestation limit for abortions has been raised from the earlier ceiling of 20 weeks to 24 weeks, but only for special categories of pregnant women such as rape or incest survivors. But this termination would need the approval of two registered doctors.
- All pregnancies up to 20 weeks require one doctor’s approval. The earlier law, the MTP Act 1971, required one doctor’s approval for pregnancies upto 12 weeks and two doctors’ for pregnancies between 12 and 20 weeks.
- Women can now terminate unwanted pregnancies caused by contraceptive failure, regardless of their marital status. Earlier the law specified that only a “married woman and her husband” could do this.
- There is also no upper gestation limit for abortion in case of foetal disability if so decided by a medical board of specialist doctors, which state governments and union territories’ administrations would set up.
Issues with legal provisions related to reproductive rights in India
- Lack of rights based approach: The Medical Termination of Pregnancy (Amendment) Act 2021 is far from ideal and has been criticised for not taking a rights-based approach.
- According to the Act, a pregnancy can be terminated on the following conditions: Grave danger to the physical/mental health of the pregnant woman; foetal abnormalities; rape/coercion; and contraceptive failure.
- A woman’s right to choose to end the pregnancy even in the first few weeks is still not recognised in India.
- Systemic barriers: It doesn’t give the pregnant person complete autonomy in ending the pregnancy, instead making them go through various systemic barriers.
- The final decision falls not on the pregnant person, but on registered medical practitioners (RMP).
- The constitution of a medical board, a requirement by the Act, is considered a barrier by the World Health Organisation.
- Excludes transgenders and non-binary persons: Additionally, it uses the word “woman”, thereby leaving out pregnant transgender and non-binary persons who are biologically capable of bearing children.
- It forces them to identify themselves in the gender-binary ignoring their gender identity.
Social factors and lack of medical facilities
- It is important to look through an intersectional lens, and factor in class and caste privilege.
- Abortion facilities in private medical centres are expensive, available only for those who have the resources.
- Lack of access: Not all public health centres, especially in rural India, provide abortion facilities.
- Most unmarried women end up resorting to unsafe abortions in illegal clinics or at home.
- According to the latest National Family Health Survey 2019-2021, 27 percent of the abortions were carried out by the woman herself at home.
- According to United Nations’ Population Fund’s (UNFPA) State of the World Population Report 2022, around 8 women die each day in India due to unsafe abortions.
- It also found that between 2007-2011, 67 percent of the abortions were classified as unsafe.
- Unsafe abortion was one of the top three causes of maternal deaths.
Discussion on reproductive rights in India are incomplete without mentioning surrogacy.

Issues in the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act 2021
- While well-intentioned, leaves much to be desired.
- The plethora of regulations one must undergo is antithetical to a dignified standard of living.
- Exclusionary in nature: Experts have pointed out that the Act is exclusionary in nature, disregards privacy, and also exploits women’s reproductive labour.
- Only a heterosexual married couple (with certain preconditions) can be the intending parents.
- It strips the reproductive autonomy of LGBTQ+ persons and single, divorced, and widowed intending parents. It can be seen as a violation to the fundamental right to equality.
- Experts also believe that regulations, rather than a complete ban on commercial surrogacy, should have been the way forward.
- Violates right to privacy: The Act requires the intending couple to declare their infertility and reveals the identity of the surrogate, both of which violate the right to privacy.
- The landmark Puttaswamy judgment discusses bodily privacy – the right over one’s body and “the freedom of being able to prevent others from violating one’s body.”
- The current reproductive rights regulatory framework falls short in guaranteeing bodily privacy.
Conclusion

The situation in India is far from perfect and we should take this moment to reflect and learn from progressive practices around the world. We should strive for inclusivity, complete bodily autonomy, and reproductive equity.

UPSC 2023 countdown has begun! Get your personal guidance plan now! (Click here)
July 1, 2022