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  • What is Agnipath Scheme?

    Defence Minister announced the ‘Agnipath’ scheme for the recruitment of youth in the armed forces for four years.

    Agnipath Scheme

    • This will be the only form of recruitment of soldiers into the three defence services from now.
    • The scheme aims at strengthening national security and for providing an opportunity to the youth to serve in the armed forces.
    • Recruits under the scheme will be known as ‘Agniveers’.
    • After completing the four-year service, they can apply for regular employment in the armed forces.
    • They may be given priority over others for various jobs in other government departments.
    • The move is expected to decrease the average age profile of armed forces personnel from the current 32 to 24-26 years over a period of time.

    Working of the scheme

    • The process of recruitment will commence in 90 days with a planned intake of 46,000 young men and women this year.
    • Enrolment to all three services will be through a centralized online system, with special rallies and campus interviews at recognized technical institutes.
    • Recruitment will be carried out on an “All India All Class” basis with the eligibility age ranging from 17.5 to 21, with medical and physical fitness standards in accordance with existing norms.

    Payouts of the Agniveers

    • The ‘Agniveers’ will receive an annual package of ₹4.76 lakh in the first year to ₹6.92 lakh in the fourth year, apart from risk and hardship and other allowances as applicable.
    • Under the ‘Seva Nidhi’ package, they will receive about ₹11.71 lakh, including contribution and interest, on completion of service.
    • The recruits will have to contribute 30% of their monthly emoluments to Seva Nidhi, with a matching contribution made by the government.
    • There will be no entitlement to gratuity and pension benefits under the scheme.
    • However, the ‘Agniveers’ will be provided a non-contributory life insurance cover of ₹48 lakh during their service.

     

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  • [pib] BIMSTEC Technology Transfer Facility (TTF)

    The Union Cabinet chaired by the PM has approved a Memorandum of Association (MoA) by India for the establishment of the BIMSTEC Technology Transfer Facility (TTF).

    What is BIMSTEC?

    • The BIMSTEC formed in 1997 is an international organisation of seven South Asian and Southeast Asian nations, housing 1.73 billion people and having a combined gross domestic product of $3.8 trillion (2021).
    • The BIMSTEC member states – Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand – are among the countries dependent on the Bay of Bengal.
    • Leadership is rotated in alphabetical order of country names. The permanent secretariat is in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
    • A BIMSTEC free trade agreement is under negotiation (c. 2018), also referred to as the mini SAARC.

    What is BIMSTEC TTF?

    • The agreement was signed by the BIMSTEC member countries at the 5th BIMSTEC Summit held at Colombo, Sri Lanka on 30th March, 2022.
    • The main objectives of the BIMSTEC TTF are to coordinate, facilitate and strengthen cooperation in technology transfer among the BIMSTEC Member States.
    • It aims to promote the transfer of technologies, sharing of experiences and capacity building.
    • The TTF shall have a Governing Board and the overall control of activities of the TTF shall be vested in the Governing Board.
    • The Governing Board shall consist of one nominee from each Member State.

    Expected outcomes

    The expected outcomes of the BIMSTEC TTF are:

    • Databank of technologies available in BIMSTEC Countries,
    • Repository of information on good practices in the areas of technology transfer management, standards, accreditation, metrology, testing and calibration facilities,
    • Capacity building, sharing of experiences and good practices in development, and
    • Transfer and use of technologies among BIMSTEC countries.

     

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  • Nanhi Pari Programme

    The ‘Nanhi Pari’ programme was recently launched by the Northwest Delhi district administration.

    Nanhi Pari Programme

    • Nanhi Pari programme aims to provide a one-stop solution to parents, eliminating their need to visit various offices to obtain documents.
    • Under the programme, essential services such as the provision of a birth certificate, Aadhaar card registration and opening a bank account for girls are completed and delivered in government hospitals in the district before the mother and baby are discharged.
    • The programme will help in getting registration of baby girls and mothers under various schemes such as the Sukanya Samriddhi Account scheme, the Ladli scheme and Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana at the hospital itself.

    Significance of the Programme

    • The programme makes the processes for schemes as simple as possible for all children and mothers.
    • Parents would not have to go from here to there, trying to avail themselves of the essential schemes.
    • Apart from ensuring that schemes reach target beneficiaries and protecting the interests of girl children, the programme also aims to promote institutional deliveries.

     

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  • 15th June 2022 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

    [WpProQuiz 1035]

    [WpProQuiz_toplist 1035]

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  • UPSC Exam Pattern

    The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) issues an annual notification with the exam format. The UPSC exam is held once a year, and the IAS Exam has followed the same format since 2013.

    The UPSC Civil Services Examination is often regarded as India’s most difficult exam. This reputation is partially a result of the fierce competition (nearly 11 lakh aspirants every year) and partly as a result of the extensive UPSC Syllabus (almost everything under the sun). Aside from that, the UPSC CSE exam design is fairly intricate, analytical, and demanding. A normal examination cycle lasts approximately a year from the preliminary exam to the announcement of the final results.

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    UPSC is a three-phased exam:
    1. Preliminary or Prelims or Pre,
    2. Mains, and
    3. Interview or Personality test.

    Candidates will be able to plan their preparations more effectively if they have a thorough understanding of the exam pattern.

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    Candidates who pass the Prelims are eligible for the Mains, and those who pass the Mains go to the interview stage, according to the IAS exam pattern.

    UPSC IAS Exam Pattern

    Name of the examCivil Services Exam or UPSC or IAS exam
    Conducting authorityUnion Public Service Commission
    Mode of ExamOffline
    Number of Stages3- Prelims, Mains, Interview
    Number of papersPrelims: 2 Mains: 9
    Prelims marking schemePaper 1: 100 questions, 2 marks each
    Paper 2: 80 questions, 2.5 marks each

    Negative marking: One-third of marks allotted to each question
    DurationPrelims: 2 hours (Each paper)
    Mains: 3 hours (Each paper)
    Type of questionsPrelims: Objective type
    Mains: Subjective type
    PostVaries every year

    One needs to qualify all rounds to be recommended to the services by the UPSC. Because each round is an elimination round, you must qualify for each one before proceeding to the next. Let us now go over the UPSC Exam Pattern 2022, as well as the marking structure for each of the papers in the various rounds.

    IAS Prelims Exam Pattern

    The UPSC IAS prelims exam consists of two papers both are objective type multiple choice questions exam. It consists of Paper – I (General Studies) and Paper-II (Aptitude Test). Candidates who qualify for this stage are considered for the next stage, which is the Main examination.

    SubjectExam TypeNo. of QuestionsMarksExam DurationNegative markingNature
    Paper I- General StudiesObjective1002002 Hours1/3rdMerit
    Paper II- Aptitude Test (CSAT)Objective802002 Hours1/3rdQualifying

    IAS Mains Exam Pattern 2022

    The UPSC IAS Mains exam consists of a compulsory Indian language, English paper, Essay, four General Studies papers and two Optional subject papers. Take a look at the UPSC Mains exam pattern in the table below.

    PaperSubjectDurationTotal marksTime AllottedNature of paper
    Paper ACompulsory Indian language3 hours3003 hoursQualifying
    Paper BEnglish3 hours3003 hoursQualifying
    Paper IEssay3 hours2503 hoursMerit-based
    Paper-IIGeneral Studies I3 hours2503 hoursMerit-based
    Paper IIIGeneral Studies II3 hours2503 hoursMerit-based
    Paper IVGeneral Studies III3 hours2503 hoursMerit-based
    Paper VGeneral Studies IV3 hours2503 hoursMerit-based
    Paper VIOptional I3 hours2503 hoursMerit-based
    Paper VIIOptional II3 hours2503 hoursMerit-based

    UPSC Interview Process

    The UPSC IAS exam will conclude with a personal interview. The candidates who pass the Mains examination will be summoned for an interview. The interview consists of 275 marks which makes the grand total of maximum marks 2025. Some of the qualities that the board assesses in a candidate are:

    • Mental acuity
    • Critical thinking
    • Analytical thinking
    • Risk assessment skills
    • Crisis management skills
    • Ability to become a leader
    • Intellectual and moral integrity

    The final selection is based on the candidate’s performance in UPSC Mains and UPSC interviews

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  • [Burning Issue] Elections to the Rajya Sabha

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    Context

    Elections to the Rajya Sabha were recently concluded in some states.

    In this article, we will discuss and analyse the journey, significance and achievements of the Upper House of Parliament – Rajya Sabha.

    The Rajya Sabha

    • The Rajya Sabha or Council of States is the upper house of the bicameral Parliament.
    • It currently has a maximum membership of 245, of which 233 are elected by the legislatures of the states and union territories using single transferable votes through Open Ballot.
    • The President can appoint 12 members for their contributions to art, literature, science, and social services.
    • Members sit for terms lasting six years, with elections every year but almost a third of the 233 designates up for election every two years, specifically in even-numbered years.

    A Historical background

    • The Rajya Sabha came into being on April 3, 1952, and held its first session on May 13 the same year.
    • The Constituent Assembly, which was formed in 1947, after the adoption of the Constitution became the Provisional Parliament and made laws till 1952.

    Before its existence

    • The central legislature that came into being under the Government of India Act, 1919 was bicameral.
    • Under 1919 Act, Council of States had 60 members and Legislative Assembly had 145 members.
    • The membership and voting norms for the Council of States were restrictive. These restrictions meant only wealthy landowners, merchants and those with legislative experience could enter it.
    • Women could neither vote nor seek membership.
    • The Government of India Act, 1935 proposed an elaborate and improved version of the second chamber, but this never materialized.

    Elections to the Rajya Sabha

    Qualifications

    Article 84 of the Constitution lays down the qualifications for membership of Parliament. A member of the Rajya Sabha must:

    • Be a citizen of India;
    • Be at least 30 years old. (Article 84 constitution of India)
    • Be elected by the Legislative Assembly of States and UTs by means of the single transferable vote through proportional representation.
    • Not be: a proclaimed criminal, a subject of an insolvent, of unsound mind.
    • Not hold any other office of profit under the Government of India.
    • Possess such other qualifications as may be prescribed in that behalf by or under any law made by Parliament.

    In addition, twelve members are nominated by the President of India having special knowledge in various areas like arts and science. However, they are not entitled to vote in Presidential elections as per Article 55 of the Constitution.

    Election procedure

    • Candidates fielded by political parties have to be proposed by at least 10 members of the Assembly or 10% of the party’s strength in the House, whichever is less.
    • For independents, there should be 10 proposers, all of whom should be members of the Assembly.

    Voting procedure

    • Voting is by single transferable vote, as the election is held on the principle of proportional representation.
    • A single transferable vote means electors can vote for any number of candidates in order of their preference.
    • A candidate requires a specified number of first preference votes to win. Each first choice vote has a value of 100 in the first round.
    • To qualify, a candidate needs one point more than the quotient obtained by dividing the total value of the number of seats for which elections are taking place plus one.
    • The formula simply is [(Number of MLAs X 100) / (Vacancies + 1)] + 1.

    Example: If there are four seats and 180 MLAs voting, the qualifying number will be 180/5= 36 votes or value of 3,600.

    Note: The Rajya Sabha polls have a system of the open ballot, but it is a limited form of openness. There is a system of each party MLA showing his or her marked ballots to the party’s authorised agent (called Whip), before they are put into the ballot box.

    The NOTA option has been struck down by the Supreme Court in RS elections.

    The Power Equation: Lok Sabha Vs. Rajya Sabha

    The Indian Constitution provides for parity of powers between the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha in law, making an exception in some cases.

    The Money Bill or Finance Bills can be introduced only in the Lok Sabha which only can approve the Demands for Grants.

    On the other hand, the Rajya Sabha has some special powers as requiring adopting a resolution allowing Parliament to legislate on subjects in the State List and creating All India Services, besides approving proclamations of Emergency and President’s Rule when the Lok Sabha is dissolved.

    Renowned British philosopher and political economist John Stuart Mill as early as in 1861 said in his great treatise Considerations on Representative Government that management of free institutions requires conciliation; a readiness to compromise; a willingness to concede something to opponents and mutual give and take. Truly, Rajya sabha plays this role in Indian legislature.

    In detail: Powers and Functions of the Rajya Sabha

    [1] Legislative Powers:

    • In the sphere of ordinary law-making, the Rajya Sabha enjoys equal powers with the Lok Sabha. An ordinary bill can be introduced in the Rajya Sabha and it cannot become a law unless passed by it.
    • In case of a deadlock between the two Houses of Parliament over an ordinary bill and if it remains unresolved for six months, the President can convene a joint sitting of the two Houses for resolving the deadlock.
    • This joint sitting is presided over by the Speaker of the Lok Sabha. But if the deadlock is not resolved, the bill is deemed to have been killed.

    [2] Financial Powers:

    • In the financial sphere, the Rajya Sabha is a weak House.
    • A money bill cannot be introduced in the Rajya Sabha. It can be initiated only in the Lok Sabha.
    • A money bill passed by the Lok Sabha comes before the Rajya Sabha for its consideration.

    [3] Executive Powers:

    • Members of the Rajya Sabha can exercise some control over the ministers by criticizing their policies, by asking questions and moving motions etc.
    • Some of the ministers are also taken from the Rajya Sabha. The PM can also be from Rajya Sabha if the majority party in the Lok Sabha may elect/adopt him as its leader.

    [4] Electoral Powers:

    • The Rajya Sabha has some electoral powers also. The elected members of the Rajya Sabha along with the elected members of the Lok Sabha and all the State Legislative Assemblies together elect the President of India.
    • The members of the Rajya Sabha Lok Sabha together elect the Vice- President of India.
    • Members of the Rajya Sabha also elect a Deputy Chairman from amongst themselves.

    [5] Judicial Powers:

    • The RS acting along with the Lok Sabha can impeach the President on charges of violation of the Constitution.
    • The RS can also pass a special address for causing the removal of a judge of the Supreme Court or of any High Court.
    • The charges against the Vice-President can be levelled only in the RS.
    • The RS can pass a resolution for the removal of some high officers like the Attorney General of India, Comptroller and Auditor General and Chief Election Commissioner.

    [6] Miscellaneous Powers:

    The Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha jointly perform the following functions:

    • Approval of the ordinances issued by the President,
    • Ratification of an emergency proclamation,
    • Making any change in the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court and the High Courts, and
    • Making any change in the qualifications for the membership of the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha.

    [7] Exclusive Powers

    The Rajya Sabha enjoys two exclusive powers:

    (i) The Power to declare a Subject of State List as a subject of National Importance:

    The Rajya Sabha can pass a resolution by 2/3rd majority of its members for declaring a State List subject as a subject of national importance. Such a resolution empowers the Union Parliament to legislate on such a state subject for a period of one year. Such resolutions can be repeatedly passed by the Rajya Sabha.

    (ii) Power in respect of Creation or Abolition of an All India Service:

    The Rajya Sabha has the power to create one or more new All India Services. It can do so by passing a resolution supported by 2/3rd majority on the plea of national interest. In a similar way, the Rajya Sabha can disband an existing All India Service.

    Limitations to its powers

    The Constitution places some restrictions on Rajya Sabha; the Lok Sabha is more powerful in certain areas as such:

    1. Money bills

    • A money bill can be introduced only in the Lok Sabha by a minister and only on recommendation of President of India.
    • When the Lok Sabha passes a money bill then the Lok Sabha sends money bill to the Rajya Sabha for 14 days during which it can make recommendations.
    • Even if Rajya Sabha fails to return the money bill in 14 days to the Lok Sabha, that bill is deemed to have passed by both the Houses.

    Also, if the Lok Sabha rejects any (or all) of the amendments proposed by the Rajya Sabha, the bill is deemed to have been passed. Hence, Rajya Sabha can only give recommendations for a money bill but Rajya Sabha cannot amend a money bill.

    There is no joint sitting of both the houses with respect to money bills, because all final decisions are taken by the Lok Sabha.

    2. Joint Sitting of the Parliament

    • Article 108 provides for a joint sitting of the two Houses of Parliament in certain cases.
    • Considering that the numerical strength of Lok Sabha is more than twice that of Rajya Sabha, Lok Sabha tends to have a greater influence in a joint sitting of Parliament.  A joint session is chaired by the Speaker of Lok Sabha.

    Joint sessions of Parliament are a rarity, and have been convened only three times in last 71 years, for the purpose of passage of a specific legislative act, the latest time being in 2002:

    • 1961: Dowry Prohibition Act, 1958
    • 1978: Banking Services Commission (Repeal) Act, 1977
    • 2002: Prevention of Terrorism Act, 2002

     3. No confidence motion:

    • The Union Council of Ministers is collectively responsible before the Lok Sabha and not the Rajya Sabha.
    • Lok Sabha alone can cause the fall of the Council of Ministers by passing a vote of no-confidence.

    Rajya Sabha: A destructionist house?

    • An analysis by the Secretariat revealed that the productivity of the Rajya Sabha till 1997 has been 100% and above and the past 23 years have thrown up a disturbing trend of rising disruptions.
    • This decline is primarily on account of disruptions forcing cancellation of Question Hour frequently.
    • Disruptions also dent the quality of law-making as seen in passing of Bills without discussion sometimes.
    • However, the Rajya Sabha is proving to be more and more a ‘deliberative’ body with increasingly more time being spent on this function.
    • According to various members of Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha has done nothing except stalling legislative works and causing policy paralysis in the country.
    • For critics, the Upper House serves no purpose as its members are not directly elected and hence are not accountable to the people.
    • Rajya Sabha often has members from the party defeated in various elections, or are from political families, and due to political differences, they do not allow passage of important bills.
    • So many extra members are an added burden on exchequer which can be done away with.
    • Politics of boycotting and creating ruckus in the house and toeing on the party-line even on the issue that won’t attract disqualification provisions is a worrying thing.
    • At the same time, in terms of working, Rajya Sabha does not have sufficient powers in financial matters to bring any change and they are without any direct public interaction. Hence its purpose in modern democracy seems outdated.

    Importance of Rajya Sabha and Why It Should Continue

    • According to President Radhakrishnan, there are functions, which a revising chamber like Rajya Sabha can fulfil fruitfully. Parliament is not only a legislative but a deliberative body. So far as its deliberative functions are concerned, Rajya Sabha has made very valuable contributions time and again.
    • It’s true that party dynamics affects the working of Rajya Sabha. But in democracy passion often defeat the normal rationality. Thus a revising house is needed to check such adrenal rush.
    • While the argument of members not able to win in direct elections holds true, but retaining talent is essential for any democratic system. Losing valuable talent during election fervours has mostly been corrected by Rajya Sabha. It has also given entry to other experts like scientist, artist, sportsmen etc that can rarely face the electoral politics.
    • While Lok Sabha have members for each state, the Hindi belt domination is a constant theme. Hence other state interests, like those in North East, have always been taken up by the Rajya Sabha.
    • While it can’t bring no confidence motion or amend money bill, its role in checking arbitrariness of government as reflected in Land Ordinance, is necessary in democracy. Besides its special role in All India Services, legislation in State List too necessitates its existence.
    • Men and women of prodigious talent and calibre have adorned the benches of the upper house and have contributed significantly towards realising the vision of the founding fathers of the Constitution.
    • A permanent Upper House is also a check against any abrupt changes in the composition of the Lower House.
    • Rajya Sabha has continuity and is a permanent house.
    • Unlike Lok Sabha, it cannot be dissolved by anyone. Thus it has, time and often, carried out some administrative functions even when the lower house is dissolved. It has members with experienced players while there may be new entrants in the Lok Sabha.

    By virtue of this, Rajya Sabha can’t be said to be ‘obstructive’.

    Conclusion

    A study of the powers of the Rajya Sabha leads us to the conclusion that it is neither a very weak house like the British House of Lords nor a very powerful house as the American Senate. Its position is somewhat mid-way between the two. It has been less powerful than Lok Sabha but it has been not a very weak or insignificant House.

    Instead of engaging in the debate of if we need upper house or not, more constructive outlook would be improve it’s functioning. Clearly, the recommendations are present from NCRWC to 2nd ARC. The need is implementation and political support.

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  • China wants a larger BRICS to challenge the existing international order

    Context

    A virtual meeting of BRICS+ foreign ministers was held on May 20 in which the ministers of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa (BRICS) were joined by representatives from Argentina, Egypt, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Nigeria, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, and Thailand.

    About BRICS

    • BRICS is an acronym for the grouping of the world’s leading emerging economies, namely Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.
    • The BRICS Leaders’ Summit is convened annually.
    • It does not exist in form of organization, but it is an annual summit between the supreme leaders of five nations.
    • The grouping was formalized during the first meeting of BRIC Foreign Ministers on the margins of the UNGA in New York in September 2006.
    • The first BRIC Summit took place in 2009 in the Russian Federation and focused on issues such as reform of the global financial architecture.
    • South Africa was invited to join BRIC in December 2010, after which the group adopted the acronym BRICS.
    • South Africa subsequently attended the Third BRICS Summit in Sanya, China, in March 2011.
    • The Chairmanship of the forum is rotated annually among the members, in accordance with the acronym B-R-I-C-S.

    What are the factors leading to the expansion of BRICS?

    • Ukraine war and hardened Western positions: The disruption in the international order, heightened by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the hardening of Western positions, are leading to the making of competitive plurilateral fora.
    • Russia and China have decided that this is an opportune time to expand BRICS and challenge the domain of the G7 by including members from the G20. 
    • China is challenging Western influence over countries and wants to use BRICS to that end.
    • China is taking the lead and setting the agenda for BRICS expansion.
    • The New Development Bank associated with BRICS, expanded membership in 2021, admitting Bangladesh, the UAE, Uruguay and Egypt
    •  This shows the Chinese determination for an expansion process on its watch.

    Criteria and the process of inducting new members into BRICS and challenges

    • Prioritise G20 members: The first likely criteria will be to prioritise G20 members.
    • Among the recent guests of the BRICS+ virtual meeting, Argentina, Indonesia and Saudi Arabia would qualify for this category.
    • From among Mexico, Indonesia, Korea, Turkey and Australia (MIKTA), only Indonesia was invited.
    • Thus, China, backed by Russia, is creating cleavages to choose its friends from among the G20 and beyond
    • Emerging economy: Another criteria which could come up would be an emerging economy status and adherence to BRICS objectives.
    • The push for setting criteria is actually a battle to choose partners who are more amenable to the individual members of the current BRICs.
    • Russia and China would prefer to have Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Saudi Arabia, UAE and Argentina excluding Egypt since it is a close ally of the US.
    • Brazil would have a say on including Argentina – the two countries have a longstanding rivalry in Latin America.
    • If Argentina is excluded, it may unravel the G20 membership criteria for inclusion in the BRICS.
    • South Africa has views on Nigeria and, particularly, Egypt. Being a member of G20 gives it leadership in Africa.
    • Being in the BRICS gave it heft as the African representative.
    • If Nigeria and Egypt are admitted, South Africa would no more be the African representative in the BRICS.
    • New Development Bank membership: The UAE and Egypt could utilise their membership of NDB as a qualifier.
    • There could be an easier consensus on Indonesia because India is unlikely to oppose it as its relationship has been improving politically, even if not economically.
    • On Kazakhstan, the decision would be that of Russia and China and how they deal with the other Central Asian countries.
    • China may also back Iran and Malaysia but then Indonesia may feel a loss of uniqueness.
    • A consensus with Brazil and South Africa for members from their regions will be critical.

    Way forward for India

    • Membership of the UAE and Saudi Arabia: The UAE and Saudi Arabia are two countries with whom India has rapidly enhanced its engagement and are good contributors to development.
    • Having them in the BRICS could be of advantage to India.
    • Both countries have a longstanding relationship with the US, but seek to diversify and would not be averse to joining BRICS.
    • Avoid BRICS expansion on Chinese terms: China, backed by Russia, is hastening the process of expansion of BRICS as part of its strategic challenge to the international order and to collect middle powers around them.
    • India needs to ensure that expansion is not on Chinese terms and that the countries admitted are equally receptive to India.
    • Bilateral engagement with them should see this perception built up.
    • Consultations on criteria and members must be strong.
    • Leverage ISBA: IBSA may act as a phalanx within BRICS to prevent China from running away with the expansion agenda over the views of other members.

    Conclusion

    Since Russia is simply with Chinese priorities, it’s time for the IBSA trilateral of democracies within BRICS to assert itself.

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    Back2Basics: What is the fundamental difference between ISBA, BRICS and BASIC?

    • IBSA is between three democracies – India, Brazil and South Africa wanting to engage in deeper economic aspects and discuss security related issues.
    •  BASIC includes Brazil, South Africa, India and China.
    • These three expressions of multilateralism steer clear from articulating the softer aspects of foreign policy like refugee rights or human rights invoking the ‘sovereignty’ clause with domestic political sanctity paramount.
    • BRICS comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.
    • Russia is a democracy with its political spectrum anchoring around an individual.
    • China is a socialist country, successful by implementing economic reforms that do not agree with the basic tenets of socialism/communism.

  • UPSC Mains Syllabus

    The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) revised the pattern of the UPSC Main examination in 2015. It is still the same for UPSC 2022

    The written examination consists of 9 papers, in which, 2 are qualifying papers and 7 papers are counted for ranking. As per new UPSC Mains Syllabus, general studies papers consists of 1000 marks.

    The detailed syllabus for GS1 – 4 papers along with the reading material references/ blogs/ video content is given below.

    Before you start making notes, read this holy grail from UPSC’s mandate:

    The questions are likely to test the candidate’s basic understanding of all relevant issues, and ability to analyse, and take a view on conflicting socio‐ economic goals, objectives and demands. The candidates must give relevant, meaningful and succinct answers.

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    Note4students:

    1. You don’t have to master the topics, all you need is a general understanding and the ability to analyze
    2. Once you read up these basic building content blocks (or your coaching notes, and reference books) – ensure that you attempt the Target Mains & Prelims Daily initiative which goes on CD. Our mentors take due care to give you meaningful input on your sincere attempts

    General Studies 1 [250 Marks]

    Indian Heritage and Culture, History and Geography of the World and Society

    Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times.

    Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the present- significant events, personalities, issues

    The Freedom Struggle – its various stages and important contributors /contributions from different parts of the country.

    Post-independence consolidation and reorganization within the country.

    History of the world will include events from the 18th century such as the industrial revolution, world wars, redrawing of national boundaries, colonization, decolonization, political philosophies like communism, capitalism, socialism, etc.- their forms and effect on society.

    Salient features of Indian Society, Diversity of India.

    Role of women and women’s organization, population and associated issues, poverty and developmental issues, urbanization, their problems, and their remedies.

    Effects of globalization on Indian society

    Social empowerment, communalism, regionalism & secularism.

    Salient features of the world’s physical geography.

    Distribution of key natural resources across the world (including South Asia and the Indian sub-continent); factors responsible for the location of primary, secondary, and tertiary sector industries in various parts of the world (including India)

    Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc., geographical features and their location- changes in critical geographical features (including water-bodies and ice-caps) and in flora and fauna and the effects of such changes.

    General Studies 2 [250 Marks]

    Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, and International relations

    Indian Constitution- historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure.

    Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure, devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein.

    Separation of powers between various organs dispute redressal mechanisms and institutions.

    Comparison of the Indian constitutional scheme with that of other countries

    Parliament and State Legislatures – structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these.

    Structure, organization and functioning of the Executive and the Judiciary Ministries and Departments of the Government; pressure groups and formal/informal associations and their role in the Polity.

    Salient features of the Representation of People’s Act.

    Appointment to various Constitutional posts, powers, functions and responsibilities of various Constitutional Bodies.

    Statutory, regulatory and various quasi-judicial bodies

    Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.

    Development processes and the development industry the role of NGOs, SHGs, various groups and associations, donors, charities, institutional and other stakeholders

    Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes; mechanisms, laws, institutions and bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections

    Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources.

    Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources, issues relating to poverty and hunger.

    Important aspects of governance, transparency and accountability, e-governance- applications, models, successes, limitations, and potential; citizens charters, transparency & accountability and institutional and other measures.

    Role of civil services in a democracy.

    India and its neighbourhood- relations

    Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests

    Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora.

    Important International institutions, agencies and fora, their structure, mandate.

    General Studies 3 [250 Marks]

    Technology, Economic Development, Bio-diversity, Environment, Security and Disaster Management

    Development, Bio diversity, Environment, Security and Disaster Management.

    Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth and development, and employment.

    Inclusive growth and issues arising from it.

    Government Budgeting.

    Major crops cropping patterns in various parts of the country, different types of irrigation and irrigation systems storage, transport and marketing of agricultural produce and issues and related constraints; e-technology in the aid of farmers

    Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies and minimum support prices; Public Distribution System objectives, functioning, limitations, revamping; issues of buffer stocks and food security; Technology missions; economics of animal-rearing.

    Food processing and related industries in India- scope and significance, location, upstream and downstream requirements, supply chain management.

    Land reforms in India.

    Effects of liberalization on the economy, changes in industrial policy and their effects on industrial growth.

    Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc.

    Investment models.

    Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life Achievements of Indians in science & technology; indigenization of technology and developing new technology.

    indigenization of technology and developing new technology.

    Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, robotics, nano-technology, bio-technology and issues relating to intellectual property rights.

    Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment

    Disaster and disaster management.

    Linkages between development and spread of extremism.

    Role of external state and non-state actors in creating challenges to internal security.

    Challenges to internal security through communication networks, role of media and social networking sites in internal security challenges, basics of cyber security; money-laundering and its prevention

    Security challenges and their management in border areas; linkages of organized crime with terrorism

    Various Security forces and agencies and their mandate

    General Studies 4 [250 Marks]

    Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude

    This paper will include questions to test the candidates’ attitude and approach to issues relating to integrity, probity in public life and his problem solving approach to various issues and conflicts faced by him in dealing with society. Questions may utilise the case study approach to determine these aspects. The following broad areas will be covered.

    Ethics and Human Interface: Essence, determinants and consequences of Ethics in human actions; dimensions of ethics; ethics in private and public relationships.

    Human Values – lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders, reformers and administrators; role of family, society and educational institutions in inculcating values.

    Attitude: content, structure, function; its influence and relation with thought and behavior; moral and political attitudes; social influence and persuasion.

    Aptitude and foundational values for Civil Service, integrity, impartiality and non-partisanship, objectivity, dedication to public service, empathy, tolerance and compassion towards the weaker sections.

    Emotional intelligence concepts, and their utilities and application in administration and governance.

    Contributions of moral thinkers and philosophers from India and the world.

    Public/Civil service values and Ethics in Public administration: Status and problems; ethical concerns and dilemmas in government and private institutions; laws, rules, regulations, and conscience as sources of ethical guidance; accountability and ethical governance; strengthening of ethical and moral values in governance; ethical issues in international relations and funding; corporate governance.

    Probity in Governance: Concept of public service; Philosophical basis of governance and probity; Information sharing and transparency in government, Right to Information, Codes of Ethics, Codes of Conduct, Citizen’s

    Charters, Work culture, Quality of service delivery, Utilization of public funds, and challenges of corruption.

    Case Studies on the above issues.

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  • How lack of consistency can cost you an attempt in the UPSC IAS exam? | Mentorship will keep you consistent, read AIR 28 Mourya and AIR 267 Soham’s story

    How lack of consistency can cost you an attempt in the UPSC IAS exam? | Mentorship will keep you consistent, read AIR 28 Mourya and AIR 267 Soham’s story

    We talked to 8000+ aspirants in the last year and their answers will surprise you. Also, read about Mourya and Soham’s consistency that rewarded them.

    Just 5 more minutes..

    Inconsistency in UPSC preparation is like getting up at 5 am. A night before you set up your alarm. The motivation to get up is high at this point. But in the morning, when the alarm rings, we swipe it to the right with a thought “IN 5 MINUTES…FOR SURE!!”. This snooze cycle usually continues for some time till we realize it is 8 am. Already a bad start to the day! To add to it, you will spend the whole day repenting for not being able to get up early, instead of focusing on the time you have. The same goes for UPSC preparation. You set your targets but one slight glitch and your whole preparation go off track. Till the time you yourself realize this mismanagement, it is a bit too late. Anxiety builds up, and performance levels fall. You are not able to achieve even 10% OF YOUR TRUE POTENTIAL on the D-day.

    WE ASKED 8000+ STUDENTS ONE SIMPLE QUESTION

    “WHAT IS THE BIGGEST OBSTACLE THAT YOU ARE FACING IN YOUR UPSC PREPARATION?”

    YOU WILL BE ASTOUNDED THAT ONE ANSWER WAS COMMON IN REPLIES – INCONSISTENCY.

    Many of the aspirants are Consistently Inconsistent. This means they go through these highs and lows in their preparation. They are able to study for days, week but they hit a sudden gap in preparation. Then, they find it very hard to come back. The good news is that we have the solution.

    (free) discuss your consistency issues and we will find a solution | Fill the form for 1-1 call

    Our philosophy behind MENTORSHIP is to get you out of this Snooze cycle. This ensures that you are the BEST VERSION of yourself in this journey. If you are under the impression that mentorship is weekly calls you attend, then you are mistaken, my friend. Trust us, your mentor will be your ‘FRIEND, PHILOSOPHER, AND GUIDE’.

    How Mentorship can fight inconsistency in preparation?

    TO EACH THEIR OWN

    Every aspirant is different. Their strengths and weaknesses are different. Their time availability is also different. Identifying this is important so you don’t end up making unrealistic targets and lose momentum.

    Your mentor will make sure you start slow but remain consistent to build your confidence. Making your schedule structured based on our experience of working with 2500+ students is our first priority. 

    When you see yourself grow, it becomes easier to motivate yourself to push boundaries. Tracking your progress can happen in many ways like mentorship calls or chat sessions or regular tests. The idea is to ensure that you don’t go off track in your preparation, and even if you do, we have your back.

    Get 1-1 mentorship now, register here

    Constant guidance is important to bring consistency to your UPSC preparation. Guidance is not about clearing your doubts or asking you to study when you don’t. It is also about the evolution of your preparation. This is where you and your mentor work as a team. A constant effort to PLAN AND BUILD UP YOUR ABILITY to learn in a faster and more efficient way.

    Receive personal guidance for upsc (register here)

    The biggest hurdle in achieving your highest level of consistency is the emotional part. Every now and then, you. surround yourself with negative thoughts, you feel scared and depressed. Instead of resolving these emotional issues, you avoid them as it seems like a waste of your precious time. You have to understand that ignoring emotional troubles does not solve them. What your doing is building an emotional time bomb that may burst a week before your mains or prelims! This is where your MENTOR AS A FRIEND comes in. All our mentors have been through this journey. We understand your fears and anxieties. So, TALK IT OUT.

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    Don’t let inconsistency keep you away from your dreams.

    Fill up the SAMANVAYA form given below. Let us know your problems and we will find a solution to them, just like our students say “TOGETHER WE CAN AND WE WILL”.

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    Mourya Bhardwaj and Soham Mandhare

    Click for Mourya’s epic on consistency and dedication.

    Both Mourya and Soham faced repeated failures in UPSC exams. While Mourya had a family and job going on was difficult. Soham faced anxiety attacks due to the hardships and struggle, his doctor advised quitting.

    But it was sheer dedication and determination that kept them consistent in the grind.

    Both of them were CivilsDaily’s mentorship students (under Sajal sir) and they vouch for the guidance and mentorship provided during this time to keep them on their toes, consistent, and always on track no matter what happens.

    What’s your excuse? Rural background, language barrier, anxiety attacks, repeated failures – Nothing could stop Soham Mandhare- CivilsDaily’s mentorship student & UPSC 2021 ranker| Download his answer copies, resources
    Consistency rewards. Mourya eventually went on to secure AIR 28 in UPSC 2021

    Fill up the Samanvaya and we will get on a call to deal with your preparation issues.

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  • UPSC Mains Bootcamp: 2 Rankers, 2 Senior Mentors, 4 Intensive sessions- Practical workshop on Answer Writing, Ethics, Essay + Exclusive Telegram group | Open to all (Register for FREE)

    UPSC Mains Bootcamp: 2 Rankers, 2 Senior Mentors, 4 Intensive sessions- Practical workshop on Answer Writing, Ethics, Essay + Exclusive Telegram group | Open to all (Register for FREE)

    With Mains season here let’s turn up the heat. Register for CivilsDaily’s Mega Bootcamp: 18-19th June 2022. Mains Answer Writing, Ethics, Essay, and more. Details below.
    (click) Book my slot for the main bootcamp | Register for FREE
    1. Improved Answer Writing and Mains Answer's structure 2. Strategy on tackling Ethics case studies 3. Invaluable tips on Philosophical Essays 4. Inputs by Rankers on your answers 5. Access to exclusive Community on Telegram

    Register for the Bootcamp and we will email you the link for the Telegram group and other Mains resources.

    (click) Book my slot for the main bootcamp | Register for FREE
    UPSC Bootcamp Session 1: Developing Mains Answer's Structure like that of UPSC Toppers + Interaction with Topper Session 2: Interactive Answer Writing session Session 3: Master strategy for Ethics Case studies with Sukanya Rana and UPSC topper Session 4: Tackling Philosophical Essays for UPSC CSE

    We’ll be having at least 2 Topper’s sessions where they will discuss their strategies and share their resources with you.

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  • Lessons from the Ukraine crisis price shock

    Context

    The Russia-Ukraine conflict, now more than three months old, will cause major, long-term shifts in the global energy and commodity trade.

    Factors responsible for high prices

    • Ukraine war: Western sanctions on Russia and efforts of European nations to diversify their energy supplies are already causing market distortions and high prices.
    • Crude oil prices are at their highest level since 2014; the price of LNG is at its highest ever, fertiliser and food are up and markets for several other commodities such as nickel have been disrupted.
    • Expensive commodities are already causing distress in India’s neighbourhood, for example, in Sri Lanka and Pakistan.
    • Insufficient investment: Insufficient investment in oil and gas production in preceding years resulted in high prices, and shortages were being felt.
    • A number of European investors, such as Norway’s sovereign wealth fund, announced they would no longer invest in traditional fuels — oil, gas, coal.
    • Natural gas is used as a feedstock for fertiliser.
    • An energy shock is then inevitably followed by a food price shock.

    Future trends

    1] Strained EU-Russia relations will distort prices

    • In the immediate term, the EU is trying to source its raw materials — most critically oil and natural gas, but also fertiliser, agricultural goods and metals — from non-Russian sources.
    • This will cause distortions and price spikes for those commodities in the global market, as can already be seen in the natural gas market, up 300 per cent in the last year.

    2] Sanctions are unlikely to achieve the desired political outcome

    • The US and its allies are quick to impose sanctions — and these are rarely withdrawn, if ever.
    • Iran has been under US sanctions since 1979, and the same with Venezuela for over a decade.
    • In both cases, sanctions have failed to achieve the desired political outcome.
    • As Russia is much better placed than either of those two countries to weather sanctions, the restrictions are likely to remain for a long while.

    3] Emerging world unwilling to align with West on sanctions

    • The high price of energy and the resulting inflation shows why much of the emerging world is unwilling and unable to align with the West on the current sanctions.
    • Russia is 11 per cent of the global landmass and among the world’s top five producers and exporters of oil, gas, fertiliser and other critical commodities like nickel.
    • It is too big to be replaced as a supplier.
    • In emerging economies, it can fan public anger and political unrest, as was seen in Tunisia and other Arab countries from 2010 on.

    4] Larger emerging economies will disregard sanction

    • Larger emerging economies such as China, India and Brazil will disregard sanctions on their key economic interests, particularly food, fertilisers and energy.
    • Specifically for India, its dependence on these essentials is unlikely to reduce meaningfully over the next 15-20 years.

    Way forward for India

    • Collaborate with other economies: In the immediate future, the India should collaborate with other similar economies to ensure that Russia doesn’t get locked out of global commodity markets.
    • Work on insulating the supply chains: For the long term, it must work on insulating its supply chains from global political crises.

    Conclusion

    India needs to brace for the price shock emanating from the distortion caused by the shift in the energy policies of Europe. At the same time, India needs to collaborate with other similar economies to ensure that Russia doesn’t get locked out of global commodity markets.

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

  • Upholding the right to repair

    Context

    The U.S. state of New York recently passed the Fair Repair Act, which requires manufacturers to supply repair information, tools, and parts to independent repair shops and not just their own stores or partners.

    What is the right to repair?

    • It refers to proposed government legislation that would allow consumers the ability to repair and modify their own consumer products (e.g. electronic, automotive devices).
    • The idea behind “right to repair” is in the name: If you own something, you should be able to repair it yourself or take it to a technician of your choice.
    • People are pretty used to this concept when it comes to older cars and appliances, but right-to-repair advocates argue that modern tech, especially anything with a computer chip inside, is rarely repairable.

    Why is such right significant?

    • Lifespan enhancement: The goal of the movement is to increase the lifespan of products and to keep them from ending up in landfills.
    • Against planned obsolescence: The electronic manufacturers are encouraging such culture so that devices are designed specifically to last a limited amount of time and to be replaced.
    • Scarcity of natural resources: Obsolescence leads to immense pressure on the environment and wasted natural resources.
    • Mitigating climate change: Manufacturing an electronic device is a highly polluting process. It makes use of polluting sources of energy, such as fossil fuel.
    • Boost to repair economy: Right to repair advocates also argue that this will help boost business for small repair shops, which are an important part of local economies.

    Why we need the right to repair?

    • Exorbitant repair price: Often, manufacturers reduce the durability of the product, compelling consumers to either repurchase the product or get it repaired at exorbitant prices affixed by the manufacturers.
    • Violation of rights: This tramples upon the right to obtain information about the quality of the product, the right to procure products at reasonable prices, and the right to seek redress against unscrupulous practices.
    • Implicit in Consumer Protection Act: The ‘right to repair’ can be said to be implicit in Section 2(9) of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.
    • Right to repair provides consumers with the right to repair and refurbish their purchased goods.
    • Providing livelihood to repair technicians: An entire repair class is, in effect, denied its right to conduct business as it does not have the tools, parts, guidelines and technical know-how to repair these high-tech products.
    • In addition to protecting their right to livelihood, it may also prove beneficial as tech companies are required to share their repair manuals with certified technicians.

    What are the concerns of the manufacturers?

    • IP rights, security and quality concers: While right to repair is a victory for consumer rights, privacy, security and quality concerns along with blatant intellectual property (IP) rights violations of the manufacturers cannot be sidelined.
    • Impact on quality and functioning: Manufacturers claim that the quality and functioning of the product might be adversely affected if they allow repairs by consumers and third parties.
    • The fear of manufacturers is so potent that they incorporate warranty clauses which lapse when the product is repaired by a third party.

    Way forward

    • Avoiding blanket waiver: While necessary clauses to maintain the quality of the product can be included, a blanket waiver should be avoided.
    • For instance, the quality assurance clause can be incorporated for use of company-recommended spare parts and certified repair shops.
    • Making available the repair manual: Making repair manuals available to certified business owners could go a long way in balancing the rights of consumers and manufacturers.
    • Sign non-disclosure agreement to protect IP rights: Manufacturers can sign a non-disclosure agreement to protect the IP with the certified repairers/businesses.
    • Alloting certification/license: Further, the lack of certification/licensing of repair workers is seen as a reflection of their lack of skills.
    • But a repair certification/licence can be allotted to those who pass certain criteria and skill tests.
    • Insert right to repair in Consumer protection Act: The ‘right to repair’ can be said to be implicit in Section 2(9) of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.
    • Its apparent disregard merits an explicit insertion of a ‘right to repair’ clause in the said provision.
    • This would make consumers more aware, provide tooth to an already implicit right, and aid in advancing repair-related liability on various stakeholders.
    • Reparability parameter: The product liability clause under Section 84 can be amended and expanded to impose product liability concerning various reparability parameters of the product.
    • France requires manufacturers to display a repairability index on their products which consists of five parameters.
    • Duration of product liability: The duration of imposing product liability may vary depending on the product and its longevity.
    • Here, we can rely on the EU’s guidelines on Ecodesign for Energy-Related Products and Energy Information Regulations, 2021, which mandate manufacturers to provide spare parts for up to 10 years to avoid premature obsolescence.

    Conclusion

    The New York legislation is a reminder that it is time to not only acknowledge the right to repair of consumers but also respond to the corresponding rights of the manufacturers.

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

  • Coal Shortages in India

    Context

    The recent power crisis due to the coal shortage in India underscores the need for measures to avoid a repeat of episodes in the future.

    Factors contributing to power crisis

    • Spike in power demand: With the sudden early onset of summer in 2022, power demand spiked, riding on the back of the post-Covid economic recovery.
    • Increase in price due to Ukraine crisis: The matter was further exacerbated by the Ukraine conflict, which led to a sharp increase in the price of imported coal.
    • Consequently, power stations designed on imported coal stopped importing because it was no longer economical for them to generate, given their contract price with the distribution companies.
    • Availability of railway rakes: It’s not that domestic coal was not available since enough stock had been built in the mines.
    • The issue was of availability of railway rakes for transportation.

    What were the measures taken by the government ?

    • 1] Import of coal to 10 per cent: First, all generators have been asked to import coal to the extent of 10 per cent (as against 4 per cent earlier) and that half of this should be physically available by the end of June.
    • CIL as aggregator: Coal India will function as the aggregator on behalf of the generators.
    • CIL functioning as the aggregator is a better idea and it may be able to import at a cheaper cost by accumulating demand as well as standardising the coal grade to be procured.
    • Moreover, it would be easier for regulators to calculate the revised energy charge since the price at which coal was imported would be well-documented.
    • 2] Section 11 of the Electricity Act 2003 (Act) invoked: Under this section, the government directed imported coal-based plants to run at full capacity with the assurance that their enhanced cost of operation would be compensated.
    • 3] Tolling: The government invoked the concept of tolling, which allowed states to transfer their allotted coal to private generators located near the mines instead of transporting it to far away state generators.
    • This move would ease the burden on the availability of railway rakes.
    • 4] Seeking the consent of beneficiaries for hike: the government issued policy directions to the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) overriding CERC’s regulations that made it mandatory to seek the consent of beneficiaries if the tariff went up by more than 30 per cent, if some alternate fuel is used.
    • 5]  Committee to rework the energy charge: A committee of officials was set up to rework the energy charge for imported coal-based generators.
    • 6] Additional working capital: The government is cognisant of the fact that there is a need for additional working capital and has advised REC/PFC as well as commercial banks to arrange for this.

    Issues with the measures

    • Use of Section 11: The government invoked Section 11 to give  direction to private generators to import coal at a higher cost.
    • Section 11(1) allows the government to give direction to a generation company to operate and maintain a generating station in extraordinary circumstances.
    • Section 11(2) of the Act mentions that the adverse financial impact on generating compacy due to directions referred to in sub-section (1) would be offset by the regulator.
    • Going by Section 11(2), the government should have left the job of working out the energy charge to the regulator instead of setting up a committee of officials to do so though, of course, the CERC was represented in the committee.
    • 2] No transparency: The committee has already worked out the revised energy costs for six of the plants but there is no transparency regarding the coal cost assumed, its calorific value, transportation cost, etc.
    • 3] Additional rakes: We have to bear in mind that the coal problem arose because of the non-availability of rakes.
    • With 38 MT of coal to be imported by October this year, and half of that by end of June, the need for rakes will not only go up but would be front-loaded.
    • We need the requisite number of rakes otherwise, we are back to where we began.

    Conclusion

    While the government is taking steps to increase coal imports and addressing the other issues, it must ensure that domestic production does not dip during monsoon season.

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  • (Special) Anuradha Suneja, CivilsDaily’s mentorship student, landed an AIR 266 in UPSC 2021 | Know her secret, motivation, and strategy | Book your FREE session with her mentors

    (Special) Anuradha Suneja, CivilsDaily’s mentorship student, landed an AIR 266 in UPSC 2021 | Know her secret, motivation, and strategy | Book your FREE session with her mentors

    Anuradha Suneja secured an AIR 266 in UPSC 2021. She was a student of our Mentorship program.
    Register Now!

    Anuradha made us proud by securing AIR 266 in UPSC 2021 exam. It is yet another validation of CivilsDaily’s vision and approach to personalized mentorship.

    In her Mains 2021 attempt, she not only improved in her GS papers but the quality of her answers increased to such an extent that even after skipping (mistakenly) questions worth 50 marks she was able to score awesomely in Mains.

    She profusely thanked our mentorship, and student-centric approach for her success. It is a humbling and heartening moment for CivilsDaily and we wish her all the very best for her future.

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    About Anuradha Suneja

    Anuradha hails from Haryana and is a Delhi University graduate. She also has a masters in Political Science. She was a topper through and through. Anuradha loves diary writing and playing badminton.

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    Anuradha was one of 200 rankers from CivilsDaily’s mentorship programs.

  • 14th June 2022| Daily Answer Writing Enhancement(AWE)

    Topics for Today’s questions:

    GS-1         Salient features of Indian society, Diversity of India

    GS-2         Health and Education

    GS-3         Indian Economy

    GS-4       Attitude

    Question 1)

     

    Q.1 Hate speech is the root of many forms of violence that are being perpetrated and has become one of the biggest challenges to the rule of law and societal harmony. Examine. (15 Marks)

     

    Question 2)

    Q.2. Examine the key features of the CoWIN platform that enabled India to carry out the world’s largest vaccination drive. How the experience gained from it can be used for other immunisation programs.(10 Marks)

    Question 3)

    Q.3 Why a competitive telecom market is a prerequisite for achieving India’s digital dream and why a duopoly in the sector stands to threaten that dream? Suggest the way forward. (10 Marks)

    Question 4)  

    Q.4 What is public morality? Is public morality at time antithetical to individual rights? Critically examine. (10 Marks)

     

    HOW TO ATTEMPT ANSWERS IN DAILY ANSWER WRITING ENHANCEMENT(AWE)?

    1. Daily 4 questions from General studies 1, 2, 3, and 4 will be provided to you.

    2. A Mentor’s Comment will be available for all answers. This can be used as a guidance tool but we encourage you to write original answers.

    3. You can write your answer on an A4 sheet and scan/click pictures of the same.

    4.  Upload the scanned answer in the comment section of the same question.

    5. Along with the scanned answer, please share your Razor payment ID, so that paid members are given priority.

    6. If you upload the answer on the same day like the answer of 11th  February is uploaded on 11th February then your answer will be checked within 72 hours. Also, reviews will be in the order of submission- First come first serve basis

    7. If you are writing answers late, for example, 11th February is uploaded on 13th February , then these answers will be evaluated as per the mentor’s schedule.

    8. We encourage you to write answers on the same day. However, if you are uploading an answer late then tag the mentor like @Staff so that the mentor is notified about your answer.

    *In case your answer is not reviewed, reply to your answer saying *NOT CHECKED*. 

    1. For the philosophy of AWE and payment: 
    CLICK HERE To join Daily AWE

  • Q.4 What is public morality? Is public morality at time antithetical to individual rights? Critically examine. (10 Marks)

    Mentor’s Comments-

    In the introduction, give a simple elaboration on the concept of public morality. 

    In the body, write about aspects such as what is accepted within the realms of public morality, whether it is static and indestructible by quoting few examples. Influence of public morality on legislations and the changes with time such as legalisation of same sex marriage etc. can be mentioned.

    Conclude by stating that society evolves with time and thus the public morality also takes its shape, however certain historically sustainable values must be preserved as well.

  • Q.3 Why a competitive telecom market is a prerequisite for achieving India’s digital dream and why a duopoly in the sector stands to threaten that dream? Suggest the way forward. (10 Marks)

    Mentor’s Comments-

    • https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/rajat-kathuria-and-mansi-kedia-write-way-forward-5g-vodafone-idea-bsnl-jio-7968029/
    • In the intro, mention that India’s telecom sector has been a story of monopoly to hyper-competition to a duopoly.
    • In the body mention the importance of competition in the telecom sector such as innovation, investment, quality of service etc. In the next part mention, the role the telecom sector has played in India’s digital progress and why the sector needs more players to continue India’s digital journey. In the way forward suggest revisiting the spectrum allocation regime and adoption of administrative assignment of the spectrum, selling the 5G spectrum to companies such as TCS, Amazon and Google.
    • Conclude by mentioning the need for a competitive and healthy telecom market to keep India’s digital achievements intact.

  • Q.2. Examine the key features of the CoWIN platform that enabled India to carry out the world’s largest vaccination drive. How the experience gained from it can be used for other immunisation programs.(10 Marks)

    Mentor’s comment-
    • https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/the-cowin-story-started-with-the-pandemic-but-it-wont-end-with-it-7956262/
    • In the intro, mention that CoWIN has proved itself as one of the most secure and robust platforms with minimal data input and zero risk of personal data hacks.
    • In the body, describe the various features of the platforms such as scalability, modularity and evolvability that helped in carrying out the Covid-19 vaccination. In the next part mention that the platform can be repurposed for making it a universal immunisation platform.
    • Conclude by mentioning that the story of CoWIN has truly been one of national impact and importance and it won’t end with the pandemic: it will segue into a repurposed digital platform for more health use-cases.

  • Q.1 Hate speech is the root of many forms of violence that are being perpetrated and has become one of the biggest challenges to the rule of law and societal harmony. Examine. (15 Marks)

    Mentor’s Comments-

    Begin by defining hate speech.

    In the body, first, write about the impact of hate speech on society. Next, write in detail about various legal and constitutional measures that have been provided for curbing hate speech. Write about how far they have been successful or unsuccessful in achieving the desired results. Finally, write about what can be done in future by government, civil society etc so as to reduce instances of hate speech.

    Conclude by writing a way forward.

  • India is expanding its nuclear arsenal: SIPRI

    India had 160 nuclear warheads as on January 2022 and it appears to be expanding its nuclear arsenal, said the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), a defense think tank.

    What is the news?

    • India’s nuclear stockpile increased from 156 in January 2021 to 160 in January 2022.

    Nukes in thy neighbour

    • Pakistan’s nuclear stockpile has remained at 165, SIPRI claimed.
    • China is in the middle of a substantial expansion of its nuclear weapon arsenal, which satellite images indicate includes the construction of over 300 new missile silos.
    • China had 350 nuclear warheads in January 2021 and 2022.

    Why do countries proliferate nuclear weapons?

    • Proliferation models centered on security concerns or dilemmas dominate nuclear literature.
    • Nuclear weapons provide an overwhelmingly destructive force that increases a state’s relative power in comparison to its neighbors.
    • It provides a powerful tool in an anarchic system where superpowers dominate other nation-states sovereignty.
    • Hence weaponizing helps establish a deterrence to prevent war.

    What is the Deterrence Theory?

    • Deterrence is widely defined as any use of threats (implicit or explicit) or limited force intended to dissuade an actor from taking an action (i.e. maintain the status quo).
    • The topic gained increased prominence as a military strategy during the Cold War with regard to the use of nuclear weapons.
    • It is related to but distinct from the concept of mutual assured destruction, which models the preventative nature of full-scale nuclear attack that would devastate both parties in a nuclear war.
    • The central problem of deterrence revolves around how to credibly threaten military action or nuclear punishment on the adversary despite its costs to the deterrer.

    Issues in Nuclear Disarmament

    • Notion of Nuclear ‘Haves’ and ‘Have-Nots’: The proponents of disarmaments are themselves nuclear armed countries thus creating a nuclear monopoly.
    • Concept of Peaceful Nuclear Explosion (PNE): conducted for non-military purposes such as mining.

    India’s commitment for de-nuclearization

    India has always batted for a universal commitment and an agreed global and non-discriminatory multilateral framework.

    • It has outlined a working paper on Nuclear Disarmament submitted to the UN General Assembly in 2006.
    • India participated in the Nuclear Security Summit process and has regularly participated in the International Conferences on Nuclear Security organised by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
    • India is also a member of the Nuclear Security Contact Group (but has signed off the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT)).
    • India has expressed its readiness to support the commencement of negotiations on a Fissile Material Cut-off Treaty (FMCT).
    • India couldn’t join the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) due to several concerns raised by India.
    • India has piloted an annual UNGA Resolution on “Measures to Prevent Terrorists from Acquiring Weapons of Mass Destruction” since 2002, which is adopted by consensus.

    Back2Basics: India’s Nuclear Doctrine

    • This was first articulated by Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on May 27, 1998, days after India had undertaken a series of nuclear tests in Pokhran.
    • It outlined various principles:
    1. Building and maintaining a Credible Minimum Deterrence
    2. Posture of ‘No First Use’– nuclear weapons will only be used in retaliation against a nuclear attack on Indian Territory or on Indian forces anywhere
    3. Massive Nuclear retaliation to a first strike will be designed to inflict unacceptable damage
    4. Non-use against non-nuclear states
    5. In response to biological or chemical weapons, India will retain the option of retaliating with nuclear weapons

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