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  • Tribes in news: Konyak

    An angry mob allegedly vandalized an Assam Rifles camp and the office of the Konyak Union in Nagaland’s Mon district.

    Konyak Tribe

    • With a population of roughly 3 lakh, the area inhabited by the Konyaks extends into Arunachal Pradesh, with a sizeable population in Myanmar as well.
    • They are known to be one of the fiercest warrior tribes in Nagaland.
    • The Konyaks were the last to give up the practice of head-hunting – severing heads of enemies after attacking rival tribes – as late as the 1980s.

    Significance in Naga Peace Process

    • Mon is the only district in Nagaland where the separatist group has not been able to set up base camps, largely due to resistance from the Konyaks.
    • The Konyaks therefore, are imperative for a smooth resolution of the peace talks, as well as the post-talk peace process in the state.

    Also read:

    Naga Peace Accord

     

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  • [pib] Project RE-HAB

    Buoyed by the success of its innovative Project RE-HAB (Reducing Elephant-Human Attacks using Bees) in Karnataka, Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) has now replicated the project in Assam.

    Project RE-HAB

    • Project RE-HAB is a sub-mission of KVIC’s National Honey Mission.
    • Under the project, “Bee-fences” are created by setting up bee boxes in the passageways of elephants to block their entrance to human territories.
    • The boxes are connected with a string so that when elephants attempt to pass through, a tug or pull causes the bees to swarm the elephant herds and dissuade them from progressing further.
    • It is a cost-effective way of reducing human-wild conflicts without causing any harm to the animals.

    How does it work?

    • It is scientifically recorded that elephants are annoyed by the honey bees.
    • Elephants also fear that the bee swarms can bite the sensitive inner side of the trunk and eyes.
    • The collective buzz of the bees is annoying to elephants that force them to return.

     

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  • 6th December 2021| Daily Answer Writing Enhancement(AWE)

    Topics for Today’s questions:

    GS-1    Role of women and women’s organization

    GS-2    Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources.

    GS-3    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.

    GS-4    Public/Civil service values and Ethics in Public administration: Accountability and ethical governance; strengthening of ethical and moral values in governance; ethical issues in international relations and funding; corporate governance

    Questions:

    Question 1)

     

    Q.1 It has been observed by some that emergence of a distinct “female vote bank” has made political parties and leaders take women related issues seriously. Critically examine in the context of electoral mobilisation in India in the recent times. (10 Marks)

     

    Question 2)

    Q.2 What are the parameters used in the National Institutional Ranking Framework? What are the issues with the ranking of State-run higher education institutions (HEIs) together with centrally funded institutions under the National Institutional Ranking Framework? (10 Marks)

    Question 3)

    Q.3 The purpose of the green revolution varied from the purpose of the white revolution. In the context of this, examine how the lessons from the white revolution can be applied as the government seeks to increase the income of the farmers. (10 Marks)

    Question 4)  

    Q.4 Of all the aspects of international politics nothing has aroused more controversy than foreign aid. Do you think international aid is a form of neo-colonialism or is it just solidarity with the poor? (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  October is uploaded on 11th October 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 October is uploaded on 13th October, 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*. 

    For the philosophy of AWE and payment: 

    CLICK HERE To join Daily AWE

  • Q.4 Of all the aspects of international politics nothing has aroused more controversy than foreign aid. Do you think international aid is a form of neo-colonialism or is it just solidarity with the poor? (10 Marks)

    Mentor’s Comments-

    • In the introduction explain what do you understand by foreign aid and different types of foreign aid.
    • In the body, explain how international aid can be a stepping stone for neo-colonialism.
    • Justify with examples from Cold War period, recent example of China’s debt-trap diplomacy.
    • Next, give arguments in favour of foreign aid such as needed for economic development, political stability, reducing inequality, humanitarian grounds etc
    • Conclude by saying that from whatever angle it may be looked upon, foreign aid is a very important instrument of promoting foreign policy objectives.

  • Q.3 The purpose of the green revolution varied from the purpose of the white revolution. In the context of this, examine how the lessons from the white revolution can be applied as the government seeks to increase the income of the farmers. (10 Marks)

    Mentor’s comment-
    • https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/a-white-touch-to-a-refreshed-green-revolution/article37813445.ece
    • In the intro, mention the government’s efforts to double the farmers’ income.
    • In the body, contrast the purposes of the two revolutions as both shaped the Indian economy and agriculture in different ways. In the next part mention lessons such as inclusion and equity, keeping the social side in mind, ensuring the practical use of science, sustainability etc.
    • Conclude by mentioning the essence of democratic economic governance is that an enterprise must be of the people, for the people, and governed by the people too.

  • Q.2 What are the parameters used in the National Institutional Ranking Framework? What are the issues with the ranking of State-run higher education institutions (HEIs) together with centrally funded institutions under the National Institutional Ranking Framework? (10 Marks)

    Mentor’s comment-
    • https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/recast-this-apples-and-oranges-ranking-method/article37831893.ece
    • In the intro, mention the background of the NIRF.
    • In the body, mention the five parameters used for the ranking: teaching, learning and resources; research and professional practice; graduation outcome; outreach and inclusivity, and perception. In the next part mention issues such as lack of adequate financing for the state-run institution and lack of the cost-benefit analysis in NIRF ranking.
    • Conclude by mentioning the need for taking these factors into account while formulating the ranking methodology.

  • Q.1 It has been observed by some that emergence of a distinct “female vote bank” has made political parties and leaders take women related issues seriously. Critically examine in the context of electoral mobilisation in India in the recent times. (10 Marks)

    Mentor’s Comments-

    • Contextualise the argument with recent examples such as reserving tickets for women only in elections, promising freebies, policies such as prohibition etc
    • Highlight the limitations of the argument on multiple fronts such as low representation in legislatures, intersectional identities other than gender, no consolidated vote bank etc.
    • On the positive side, mention some policies and schemes for the welfare of females initiated irrespective of vote bank politics.
    • Provide a balanced conclusion on the issue.

  • 6th December 2021 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

    [WpProQuiz 852]

    [WpProQuiz_toplist 852]

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  • Starting Today @ 7PM ||What are the 5 Ways to Remain Consistent in your UPSC Preparation?|| Brainstorm with IPS Officer Shubham Nagargoje|| Free Q&A Webinar, Open for All, Limited Slots|| Register Now

    Starting Today @ 7PM ||What are the 5 Ways to Remain Consistent in your UPSC Preparation?|| Brainstorm with IPS Officer Shubham Nagargoje|| Free Q&A Webinar, Open for All, Limited Slots|| Register Now

    Success isn’t always because of greatness. It’s about consistency. Consistent hard work leads to success. Greatness will come.” – Dwayne Johnson.

    IPS Officer Shubham Nagargoje lived by this saying during his entire UPSC and RBI Grade B preparation of three years. Hence, failing to clear the UPSC Prelims twice didn’t deter him. He finally got appointment letters both as an RBI Grade B officer and an IPS officer. His joy knew no bounds and the very first thing he did upon hearing the news was hug his roommate and cry tears of joy. Shubham’s inclination in civil service motivated him to reject the former for the latter.

    Free Open for All, Q&A Webinar with Shubham Nagargoje IPS

    As UPSC-CSE aspirants, most of us would have faced the issue of consistency — we achieve our targets for the first month, but soon afterward our preparation (best known to us) fizzles out. Before we know, we would have gone months together without studying due to which we would give the upcoming UPSC exams a miss. This invariably delays the prospects of selection by a year or more.

    But what exactly is consistency? It appears to be a very common word just like ‘sorry’ and ‘thank you’ that everyone throws around. How does it feel to follow consistent life like other UPSC toppers? Consistency in UPSC parlance involves two aspects — being regular and being steadfast. It’s the willpower to read the current affairs in the morning, read the prelims portions in the afternoon, study for your Optional subject in the evening and round it off with a Mains subject at night. It’s the ability to not skip prelims and mains test series on the weekends. And it’s about making time to revise your notes once a week. Even if you miss one of these aspects, you are not true to your preparation.

    Does this sound difficult? Then attend the Ask Me Anything Session with Shubham Nagargoje to understand the five ways you can keep yourself consistent aka motivated for the upcoming UPSC CSE 2021 Mains and UPSC CSE 2022 Prelims exam.

    It’s absolutely free for anyone to attend but due to a fixed duration of 1 hour, we are only having limited slots. So kindly register for the webinar by filling this form right now.

    Register here for the free q&A webinar by IPS officer shubham nagargoje now

    Key Takeaways of the Free Q&A Webinar with Shubham Nagargoje IPS

    1. Consistency according to Shubham. What did it mean to him?

    2. Day 01 v/s Day 365. How regular studies made him more intellectual, mentally strong and increased his confidence in mastering the topics?

    3. Mistakes aspirants make in the name of consistency. For example, why studying one book for the entire day is a bad idea?

    4. The right approach to Dynamic Prelims. What are the changes Shubham made in his 3rd attempt which helped him clear Prelims?

    5. Acing group studies for UPSC. How did Shubham successfully prepare with his four friends because of which all of them cleared Prelims and Mains?

    6. The time-management technique which helped Shubham stay focused. What were the distractions in Shubham’s preparation and how did he conquer them?

    7. What to write in DAF and what not to. How did Shubham research on his DAF because of which he was able to give a convincing interview?

    8. Navigating through study breaks. How long should a study break be and how to get back to study mode?

    9. Ideal hobbies for UPSC Aspirants. What are the hobbies you should cultivate now that can be a refreshing break for you?

    10. Other Government Exams. What are the other government exams you can study along with UPSC which has a similar syllabus but lesser competition?

    Webinar Details

    If you want to improve your preparation for UPSC, then do attend this webinar by IPS officer Shubham. Registration is free but limited due to the number of questions we can accommodate in the one-hour session. So fill the form below and confirm your attendance ASAP!

    Date: 6 December 2021 (Monday)

    Time: 7 P.M

  • [Sansad TV] Perspective: Population Slowdown

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    Context

    • According to the National Family Health Survey data for 2019-21, the country’s population is set to fall.
    • The Total Fertility Rate – which is the average number of children born to a woman over her lifetime has dropped to 2 for the first time.

    TFR decline in India

    • In the 2015-16 survey, the national TFR was 2.2, and before that in the 2005-06 survey it was 2.7.
    • Now it has dropped down to 2 – which is below replacement level.
    • The replacement level TFR, at which a population exactly replaces itself from one generation to the next one, is estimated to be 2.1.

    Various reasons for TFR decline

    • Behavioural change in people without any coercion to achieve this feat
    • Use of modern Contraceptives
    • Women Empowerment through increased access to education, labor markets, health services, and contraception
    • Choice to defer having children
    • Stress on financial resources

    Other factors

    • COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated declining fertility rates.
    • The burden of care for families had its disproportionate impact on women.

    Government Initiatives

    • Started as back as 1951, India’s family planning programme is among the world’s oldest.
    • The earliest government communication campaigns sought to promote smaller families. But there was little progress.
    • In 1975, when the government declared Emergency, the desperation to control the population took a dark turn due to forced sterilization.
    • In 1994, the International Conference on Population Development (ICPD), convened under the auspices of the United Nations.
    • The ICPD inspired India’s 2000 National Population Policy.

    Importance of a declining TFR

    • Population stabilization: A TFR of 2 is clear indicator of a country’s long-term population stability. The TFR of 2.1 is a desirable goal for the country.
    • Population no more a liability: This simply suggests that India does not have to worry that a large population is hindering its progress. 
    • Accelerating Economic Growth: Over the next 2 to 3 decades, younger demographic profiles will provide opportunities for accelerated economic growth.
    • Improved healthcare: India’s success in stabilizing population can be largely attributed to increased investment in public healthcare.

    Negative impacts

    TFRs with less than 2.1 children per female suggest that generations are not producing enough offspring to replace themselves and eventually would lead to a declining population.

    • Rise in Ageing populations
    • Deflation caused by the ageing populations
    • Higher dependency ratios
    • Increased strain the global workforce and social benefits.
    • Loss of productivity and innovation

    Way forward

    • Governments must implement targeted social and behavioral change communication strategies to ensure that men are also responsible for family planning. 
    • The government must provide health and life-skills education at an early age along with ensuring access to sexual and reproductive health services.
    • It must absolutely swear off coercive population-control policies for good.
  • What are the 5 Ways to Remain Consistent in your UPSC Preparation?|| Brainstorm with IPS Officer Shubham Nagargoje|| Free Q&A Webinar, Open for All, Limited Slots|| Register Now

    What are the 5 Ways to Remain Consistent in your UPSC Preparation?|| Brainstorm with IPS Officer Shubham Nagargoje|| Free Q&A Webinar, Open for All, Limited Slots|| Register Now

    Success isn’t always because of greatness. It’s about consistency. Consistent hard work leads to success. Greatness will come.” – Dwayne Johnson.

    IPS Officer Shubham Nagargoje lived by this saying during his entire UPSC and RBI Grade B preparation of three years. Hence, failing to clear the UPSC Prelims twice didn’t deter him. He finally got appointment letters both as an RBI Grade B officer and an IPS officer. His joy knew no bounds and the very first thing he did upon hearing the news was hug his roommate and cry tears of joy. Shubham’s inclination in civil service motivated him to reject the former for the latter.

    Free Open for All, Q&A Webinar with Shubham Nagargoje IPS

    As UPSC-CSE aspirants, most of us would have faced the issue of consistency — we achieve our targets for the first month, but soon afterward our preparation (best known to us) fizzles out. Before we know, we would have gone months together without studying due to which we would give the upcoming UPSC exams a miss. This invariably delays the prospects of selection by a year or more.

    But what exactly is consistency? It appears to be a very common word just like ‘sorry’ and ‘thank you’ that everyone throws around. How does it feel to follow consistent life like other UPSC toppers? Consistency in UPSC parlance involves two aspects — being regular and being steadfast. It’s the willpower to read the current affairs in the morning, read the prelims portions in the afternoon, study for your Optional subject in the evening and round it off with a Mains subject at night. It’s the ability to not skip prelims and mains test series on the weekends. And it’s about making time to revise your notes once a week. Even if you miss one of these aspects, you are not true to your preparation.

    Does this sound difficult? Then attend the Ask Me Anything Session with Shubham Nagargoje to understand the five ways you can keep yourself consistent aka motivated for the upcoming UPSC CSE 2021 Mains and UPSC CSE 2022 Prelims exam.

    It’s absolutely free for anyone to attend but due to a fixed duration of 1 hour, we are only having limited slots. So kindly register for the webinar by filling this form right now.

    Register here for the free q&A webinar by IPS officer shubham nagargoje now

    Key Takeaways of the Free Q&A Webinar with Shubham Nagargoje IPS

    1. Consistency according to Shubham. What did it mean to him?

    2. Day 01 v/s Day 365. How regular studies made him more intellectual, mentally strong and increased his confidence in mastering the topics?

    3. Mistakes aspirants make in the name of consistency. For example, why studying one book for the entire day is a bad idea?

    4. The right approach to Dynamic Prelims. What are the changes Shubham made in his 3rd attempt which helped him clear Prelims?

    5. Acing group studies for UPSC. How did Shubham successfully prepare with his four friends because of which all of them cleared Prelims and Mains?

    6. The time-management technique which helped Shubham stay focused. What were the distractions in Shubham’s preparation and how did he conquer them?

    7. What to write in DAF and what not to. How did Shubham research on his DAF because of which he was able to give a convincing interview?

    8. Navigating through study breaks. How long should a study break be and how to get back to study mode?

    9. Ideal hobbies for UPSC Aspirants. What are the hobbies you should cultivate now that can be a refreshing break for you?

    10. Other Government Exams. What are the other government exams you can study along with UPSC which has a similar syllabus but lesser competition?

    Webinar Details

    If you want to improve your preparation for UPSC, then do attend this webinar by IPS officer Shubham. Registration is free but limited due to the number of questions we can accommodate in the one-hour session. So fill the form below and confirm your attendance ASAP!

    Date: 6 December 2021 (Monday)

    Time: 7 P.M

  • What are the 5 Ways to Remain Consistent in your UPSC Preparation?|| Brainstorm with IPS Officer Shubham Nagargoje|| Free Q&A Webinar, Open for All, Limited Slots|| Register Now

    What are the 5 Ways to Remain Consistent in your UPSC Preparation?|| Brainstorm with IPS Officer Shubham Nagargoje|| Free Q&A Webinar, Open for All, Limited Slots|| Register Now

    Success isn’t always because of greatness. It’s about consistency. Consistent hard work leads to success. Greatness will come.” – Dwayne Johnson.

    IPS Officer Shubham Nagargoje lived by this saying during his entire UPSC and RBI Grade B preparation of three years. Hence, failing to clear the UPSC Prelims twice didn’t deter him. He finally got appointment letters both as an RBI Grade B officer and an IPS officer. His joy knew no bounds and the very first thing he did upon hearing the news was hug his roommate and cry tears of joy. Shubham’s inclination in civil service motivated him to reject the former for the latter.

    Free Open for All, Q&A Webinar with Shubham Nagargoje IPS

    As UPSC-CSE aspirants, most of us would have faced the issue of consistency — we achieve our targets for the first month, but soon afterward our preparation (best known to us) fizzles out. Before we know, we would have gone months together without studying due to which we would give the upcoming UPSC exams a miss. This invariably delays the prospects of selection by a year or more.

    But what exactly is consistency? It appears to be a very common word just like ‘sorry’ and ‘thank you’ that everyone throws around. How does it feel to follow consistent life like other UPSC toppers? Consistency in UPSC parlance involves two aspects — being regular and being steadfast. It’s the willpower to read the current affairs in the morning, read the prelims portions in the afternoon, study for your Optional subject in the evening and round it off with a Mains subject at night. It’s the ability to not skip prelims and mains test series on the weekends. And it’s about making time to revise your notes once a week. Even if you miss one of these aspects, you are not true to your preparation.

    Does this sound difficult? Then attend the Ask Me Anything Session with Shubham Nagargoje to understand the five ways you can keep yourself consistent aka motivated for the upcoming UPSC CSE 2021 Mains and UPSC CSE 2022 Prelims exam.

    It’s absolutely free for anyone to attend but due to a fixed duration of 1 hour, we are only having limited slots. So kindly register for the webinar by filling this form right now.

    Register here for the free q&A webinar by IPS officer shubham nagargoje now

    Key Takeaways of the Free Q&A Webinar with Shubham Nagargoje IPS

    1. Consistency according to Shubham. What did it mean to him?

    2. Day 01 v/s Day 365. How regular studies made him more intellectual, mentally strong and increased his confidence in mastering the topics?

    3. Mistakes aspirants make in the name of consistency. For example, why studying one book for the entire day is a bad idea?

    4. The right approach to Dynamic Prelims. What are the changes Shubham made in his 3rd attempt which helped him clear Prelims?

    5. Acing group studies for UPSC. How did Shubham successfully prepare with his four friends because of which all of them cleared Prelims and Mains?

    6. The time-management technique which helped Shubham stay focused. What were the distractions in Shubham’s preparation and how did he conquer them?

    7. What to write in DAF and what not to. How did Shubham research on his DAF because of which he was able to give a convincing interview?

    8. Navigating through study breaks. How long should a study break be and how to get back to study mode?

    9. Ideal hobbies for UPSC Aspirants. What are the hobbies you should cultivate now that can be a refreshing break for you?

    10. Other Government Exams. What are the other government exams you can study along with UPSC which has a similar syllabus but lesser competition?

    Webinar Details

    If you want to improve your preparation for UPSC, then do attend this webinar by IPS officer Shubham. Registration is free but limited due to the number of questions we can accommodate in the one-hour session. So fill the form below and confirm your attendance ASAP!

    Date: 6 December 2021 (Monday)

    Time: 7 P.M

  • The NIRF’s ranking of education institutions on a common scale is problematic

    Context

    The ranking of State-run higher education institutions (HEIs) together with centrally funded institutions using the National Institutional Ranking Framework, or the NIRF, is akin to comparing apples and oranges.

    Institute data

    • According to an All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) 2019-20 report, there are 1,043 HEIs.
    • Of these, 48 are central universities.
    • 135 are institutions of national importance,
    • 1 is a central open university,
    • 386 are State public universities,
    • 5 are institutions under the State legislature act,
    • 14 are State open universities,
    • 327 are State private universities,
    • 1 is a State private open university,
    • 36 are government deemed universities,
    • 10 are government aided deemed universities.
    • 80 are private deemed universities.

    Comparison of financial health of State HEI with Central HEIs

    • A close study of the above data shows that 184 are centrally funded institutions (out of 1,043 HEIs in the country) to which the Government of India generously allocates its financial resources in contrast to inadequate financial support provided by State governments to their respective State public universities and colleges.
    • The Central government earmarked the sums, ₹7,686 crore and ₹7,643.26 crore to the IITs and central universities, respectively, in the Union Budget 2021.
    • Ironically, out of the total student enrolment, the number of undergraduate students is the largest (13,97,527) in State public universities followed by State open universities (9,22,944).

    How NIRF ranks the education institutions?

    • Parameters set by the core committee of experts: The NIRF outlines a methodology to rank HEIs across the country, which is based on a set of metrics for the ranking of HEIs as agreed upon by a core committee of experts set up by the then Ministry of Human Resources Development (now the Ministry of Education), Government of India
    • The NIRF ranks HEIs on five parameters: teaching, learning and resources; research and professional practice; graduation outcome; outreach and inclusivity, and perception.

    Where do State HEIs lag on NIRF parameters?

    • Teaching, learning and resources include metrics viz. student strength including doctoral students, the faculty-student ratio with an emphasis on permanent faculty, a combined metric for faculty with the qualification of PhD (or equivalent) and experience, and financial resources and their utilisation.
    • Low faculty strength in State HEIs: In the absence of adequate faculty strength, most State HEIs lag behind in this crucial NIRF parameter for ranking.
    • The depleting strength of teachers has further weakened the faculty-student ratio with an emphasis on permanent faculty in HEIs.
    • Research and professional practise encompasses a combined metric for publications, a combined metric for quality of publications, intellectual property rights/patents and the footprint of projects, professional practice and executive development programmes.
    • Need for modernisation of laboratories: As most laboratories need drastic modernisation in keeping pace with today’s market demand, it is no wonder that State HEIs fare miserably in this parameter as well while pitted against central institutions.

    Issues with comparing State HEIs with Central HEIs

    • The difference in financial allocations diregarded: The financial health of State-sponsored HEIs is an open secret with salary and pension liabilities barely being managed.
    • Hence, rating such institutions vis-à-vis centrally funded institutions does not make any sense.
    • No cost-benefit analysis carried out: No agency carries out a cost-benefit analysis of State versus centrally funded HEIs on economic indicators such as return on investment the Government made into them vis-à-vis the contribution of their students in nation building parameters such as the number of students who passed out serving in rural areas, and bringing relief to common man.
    • While students who pass out of elite institutions generally prefer to move abroad in search of higher studies and better career prospects, a majority of State HEIs contribute immensely in building the local economy.
    • Issues in embracing technologies: State HEIs are struggling to embrace emerging technologies involving artificial intelligence, machine learning, block chains, smart boards, handheld computing devices, adaptive computer testing for student development.

    Consider the question “What are the challenges in the ranking of Higher Education Institutions in India? What are the issues faced by State HEI?”

    Conclusion

    Ranking HEIs on a common scale purely based on strengths without taking note of the challenges and the weaknesses they face is not justified. It is time the NIRF plans an appropriate mechanism to rate the output and the performance of institutes in light of their constraints and the resources available to them.

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  • A white touch to a refreshed green revolution

    Context

    November 26, 2021 was celebrated in Anand, Gujarat as the 100th birth anniversary of Verghese Kurien, the leader of India’s ‘white revolution’.

    Analysing the Green revolution

    • Purpose of green revolution: The purpose of the green revolution was to increase the output of agriculture to prevent shortages of food.
    • Technocratic enterprise: The green revolution was largely a technocratic enterprise driven by science and the principles of efficiency.
    • It required inputs, like chemical fertilizers, to be produced on scale and at low cost.
    • Therefore, large fertilizer factories were set up for the green revolution. And large dams and irrigation systems were also required to feed water on a large scale.
    • Monocropping on fields was necessary to apply all appropriate inputs — seeds, fertilizer, water, etc., on scale.
    •  Monocropping increased the efficiency in application of inputs.
    • Thus, farms became like large, dedicated engineering factories designed to produce large volumes efficiently.
    •  Diversity in the products and processes of large factories creates complexity.
    • Therefore, diversity is weeded out to keep the factories well-focused on the outputs they are designed for.

    The contrast between White and Green revolution

    • The contrast between the two revolutions provides valuable insights. Their purposes were different.
    • Purpose of white revolution: The purpose of the white revolution was to increase the incomes of small farmers in Gujarat, not the output of milk.
    • The white revolution was a socio-economic enterprise driven by political leaders and principles of equity.

    Understanding the success of Amul

    • Amul has become one of India’s most loved brands, and is respected internationally too for the quality of its products and the efficiency of its management.
    • The fledgling, farmer-owned, Indian enterprise had many technological problems to solve.
    • That is why they enrolled Kurien, who had studied engineering in the United States.
    • Indigenous solutions: Kurien and his engineering compatriots in the organisation were compelled to develop solutions indigenously when Indian policy makers, influenced by foreign experts, said Indians could not make it.
    • The enterprise achieved its outcome of empowering farmers because the governance of the enterprise to achieve equity was always kept in the foreground, with the efficiency of its production processes in the background as a means to the outcome.

    Increasing productivity and issues with it

    • ‘Productivity’, when defined as output per worker, can be increased by eliminating workers.
    • This may be an acceptable way to measure and increase productivity when the purpose of the enterprise is to increase profits of investors in the enterprise.
    • It is a wrong approach to productivity when the purpose of the enterprise is to enable more workers to increase their incomes, which must be the aim of any policy to increase small farmers’ incomes.
    • The need for new solutions to increase farmers’ incomes has become imperative.
    • Moreover, fundamental changes in economics and management sciences are necessary to reverse the degradation of the planet’s natural environment that has taken place with the application of modern technological solutions and management methods for the pursuit of economic growth.

    Suggestions to increase inclusion and improve environmental sustainability

    • Ensure inclusion and equity: Increase in the incomes and wealth of the workers and small asset owners in the enterprise must be the purpose of the enterprise, rather than production of better returns for investors.
    • Social side: The ‘social’ side of the enterprise is as important as its ‘business’ side.
    • Therefore, new metrics of performance must be used, and many ‘non-corporate’ methods of management learned and applied to strengthen its social fabric.
    • Local solution: Solutions must be ‘local systems’ solutions, rather than ‘global (or national) scale’ solutions.
    • The resources in the local environment (including local workers) must be the principal resources of the enterprise.
    • Practical use of science: Science must be practical and useable by the people on the ground rather than a science developed by experts to convince other experts.
    • Moreover, people on the ground are often better scientists from whom scientists in universities can learn useful science.
    • Sustainable solution through evolution: Sustainable transformations are brought about by a steady process of evolution, not by drastic revolution.
    • Large-scale transformations imposed from the top can have strong side-effects.

    Consider the question “Contrast the differences between the White Revolution and Green Revolution in India. What lessons can be applied to Indian agriculture from the success of the White Revolution in India?”

    Conclusion

    The essence of democratic economic governance is that an enterprise must be of the people, for the people, and governed by the people too.

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  • What are the 5 Ways to Remain Consistent in your UPSC Preparation?|| Brainstorm with IPS Officer Shubham Nagargoje|| Free Q&A Webinar, Open for All, Limited Slots|| Register Now

    What are the 5 Ways to Remain Consistent in your UPSC Preparation?|| Brainstorm with IPS Officer Shubham Nagargoje|| Free Q&A Webinar, Open for All, Limited Slots|| Register Now

    Success isn’t always because of greatness. It’s about consistency. Consistent hard work leads to success. Greatness will come.” – Dwayne Johnson.

    IPS Officer Shubham Nagargoje lived by this saying during his entire UPSC and RBI Grade B preparation of three years. Hence, failing to clear the UPSC Prelims twice didn’t deter him. He finally got appointment letters both as an RBI Grade B officer and an IPS officer. His joy knew no bounds and the very first thing he did upon hearing the news was hug his roommate and cry tears of joy. Shubham’s inclination in civil service motivated him to reject the former for the latter.

    Free Open for All, Q&A Webinar with Shubham Nagargoje IPS

    As UPSC-CSE aspirants, most of us would have faced the issue of consistency — we achieve our targets for the first month, but soon afterward our preparation (best known to us) fizzles out. Before we know, we would have gone months together without studying due to which we would give the upcoming UPSC exams a miss. This invariably delays the prospects of selection by a year or more.

    But what exactly is consistency? It appears to be a very common word just like ‘sorry’ and ‘thank you’ that everyone throws around. How does it feel to follow consistent life like other UPSC toppers? Consistency in UPSC parlance involves two aspects — being regular and being steadfast. It’s the willpower to read the current affairs in the morning, read the prelims portions in the afternoon, study for your Optional subject in the evening and round it off with a Mains subject at night. It’s the ability to not skip prelims and mains test series on the weekends. And it’s about making time to revise your notes once a week. Even if you miss one of these aspects, you are not true to your preparation.

    Does this sound difficult? Then attend the Ask Me Anything Session with Shubham Nagargoje to understand the five ways you can keep yourself consistent aka motivated for the upcoming UPSC CSE 2021 Mains and UPSC CSE 2022 Prelims exam.

    It’s absolutely free for anyone to attend but due to a fixed duration of 1 hour, we are only having limited slots. So kindly register for the webinar by filling this form right now.

    Register here for the free q&A webinar by IPS officer shubham nagargoje now

    Key Takeaways of the Free Q&A Webinar with Shubham Nagargoje IPS

    1. Consistency according to Shubham. What did it mean to him?

    2. Day 01 v/s Day 365. How regular studies made him more intellectual, mentally strong and increased his confidence in mastering the topics?

    3. Mistakes aspirants make in the name of consistency. For example, why studying one book for the entire day is a bad idea?

    4. The right approach to Dynamic Prelims. What are the changes Shubham made in his 3rd attempt which helped him clear Prelims?

    5. Acing group studies for UPSC. How did Shubham successfully prepare with his four friends because of which all of them cleared Prelims and Mains?

    6. The time-management technique which helped Shubham stay focused. What were the distractions in Shubham’s preparation and how did he conquer them?

    7. What to write in DAF and what not to. How did Shubham research on his DAF because of which he was able to give a convincing interview?

    8. Navigating through study breaks. How long should a study break be and how to get back to study mode?

    9. Ideal hobbies for UPSC Aspirants. What are the hobbies you should cultivate now that can be a refreshing break for you?

    10. Other Government Exams. What are the other government exams you can study along with UPSC which has a similar syllabus but lesser competition?

    Webinar Details

    If you want to improve your preparation for UPSC, then do attend this webinar by IPS officer Shubham. Registration is free but limited due to the number of questions we can accommodate in the one-hour session. So fill the form below and confirm your attendance ASAP!

    Date: 6 December 2021 (Monday)

    Time: 7 P.M

  • 4th December 2021 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

    [WpProQuiz 851]

    [WpProQuiz_toplist 851]

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  • How MPs’ Questions are allowed, disallowed

    Over the last few sessions of Parliament, MPs mainly from the Opposition have often alleged that their questions have been intentionally disallowed.

    What are the categories of Questions?

    (1) Starred Question

    • The member desires an oral answer from the minister.
    • Such a question is distinguished by the MP with an asterisk.
    • The answer can also be followed by supplementary questions from members.

    (2) Unstarred Question

    • The MP seeks a written answer, which is deemed to be laid on the table of the House by the concerned minister.

    (3) Short Notice Question

    • These are on an urgent matter of public importance, and an oral answer is sought.
    • A notice of less than 10 days is prescribed as the minimum period for asking such a question.

    (4) Question to a Private Member

    • A question can be addressed to a private member under Rule 40 of Lok Sabha’s Rules of Procedure, or under Rule 48 of Rajya Sabha’s Rules.
    • Such question deals with a subject relating to some Bill, resolution or other matter for which that member is responsible.

    When are the questions asked?

    Ans. Question Hour

    • In both Houses, the first hour of every sitting is usually devoted to asking and answering of questions, and this is referred to as the ‘Question Hour’.
    • The total number of questions for any day is limited to 175.
    • These includes 15 questions for oral answers, questions postponed from one list to another for written answers, and 15 questions pertaining to states under President’s Rule.

    How are questions admitted?

    • In both Houses, elected members enjoy the right to seek information from various ministries and departments in the form of questions.
    • The Rajya Sabha Chairman or the Lok Sabha Speaker has the authority to decide whether a question or a part is or is not admissible under the norms of the House, and disallow any question or a part.
    • Usually, MPs’ questions form a long list, which then go through a rigorous process of clearance.
    • Once a question that fulfils the conditions of admissibility is received, the Secretariat sends it to the ministry concerned.
    • Once the facts are received from the ministry, the question is further examined for admissibility.
    • A final list of questions is circulated to ministers, on the basis of which they frame their answers.

    Answering the Questions

    • For answering the questions, ministries and departments have been divided into five groups (I to V) that have been allotted Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays respectively.
    • The grouping has been done in such a way that each minister has one fixed day in the week for answering questions in Rajya Sabha and another fixed day for answering questions in Lok Sabha.

    What kind of questions can be asked?

    (A) Rajya Sabha

    • The question shall be pointed, specific and confined to one issue only
    • It shall not bring in any name or statement not strictly necessary to make the question intelligible
    • If it contains a statement the member shall make himself responsible for the accuracy of the statement
    • It shall not contain arguments, inferences, ironical expressions, imputations, epithets or defamatory statements

    (B) Lok Sabha

    Questions that are not admitted include:

    • Those that are repetitive or have been answered previously and
    • Matters that are pending for judgment before any court of law or under consideration before a Parliamentary Committee

     

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  • Demand for Greater Tipraland in Tripura

    Several tribal outfits in Tripura have joined hands to push their demand for a separate state called Greater Tipraland for indigenous communities in the region.

    Demand for Greater Tipraland

    • The Protestants are demanding a separate state of ‘Greater Tipraland’ for the indigenous communities of the north-eastern state.
    • They want the Centre to carve out a separate state under Articles 2 and 3 of the Constitution.
    • Greater Tipraland envisages a situation in which the entire Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTADC) area will be a separate state.
    • It also proposes dedicated bodies to secure the rights of the Tripuris and other aboriginal communities living outside Tripura.

    What does the Constitution say?

    • Article 2 of the Indian Constitution deals with the admission or establishment of new states.
    • Parliament may by law admit into the Union, or establish, new States on such terms and conditions, as it thinks fit,” it states.
    • Article 3 comes into play in the case of “formation of new States and alteration of areas, boundaries or names of existing States” by the Parliament.

    How did the demand originate?

    • Accessed state: Tripura was a kingdom ruled by the Manikya dynasty from the late 13th century until the signing of the Instrument of Accession with the Indian government on October 15, 1949.
    • Demographic changes: There is an anxiety among the indigenous communities in connection with the change in the demographics of the state due to the displacements from the erstwhile East Pakistan.
    • Existential threats: From 63.77 per cent in 1881, the population of the tribals in Tripura was down to 31.80 per cent by 2011.
    • Ethnic conflicts: In the intervening decades, ethnic conflict and insurgency gripped the state, which shares a nearly 860-km long boundary with Bangladesh.

    What has been done to address the grievances of indigenous communities?

    • The TTADC was formed under the sixth schedule to ensure development and secure the rights and cultural heritage of the tribal communities.
    • The TTADC, which has legislative and executive powers, covers nearly two-third of the state’s geographical area.

    Back2Basics: Autonomous District Council

    • The Sixth Schedule of the Constitution of India allows for the formation of autonomous administrative divisions which have been given autonomy within their respective states.
    • Most of these autonomous district councils are located in North East India but two are in Ladakh, a region administered by India as a union territory.
    • Presently, 10 Autonomous Councils in Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram and Tripura are formed by virtue of the Sixth Schedule with the rest being formed as a result of other legislation.

    Powers and competencies

    Under the provisions of the Sixth Schedule, autonomous district councils can make laws, rules and regulations in the following areas:

    • Land management
    • Forest management
    • Water resources
    • Agriculture and cultivation
    • Formation of village councils
    • Public health
    • Sanitation
    • Village and town level policing
    • Appointment of traditional chiefs and headmen
    • Inheritance of property
    • Marriage and divorce
    • Social customs
    • Money lending and trading
    • Mining and minerals

    Judicial powers

    • Autonomous district councils have powers to form courts to hear cases where both parties are members of Scheduled Tribes and the maximum sentence is less than 5 years in prison.

    Taxation and revenue

    • Autonomous district councils have powers to levy taxes, fees and tolls on; building and land, animals, vehicles, boats, entry of goods into the area, roads, ferries, bridges, employment and income and general taxes for the maintenance of schools and roads.

     

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  • Who was St. Francis Xavier?

    The Prime Minister has greeted the people of Goa on the day of the Feast of St. Francis Xavier.

    St. Francis Xavier (1506-1552)

    • Francis Xavier venerated as Saint Francis Xavier, was a Catholic missionary and saint who was a co-founder of the Society of Jesus.
    • He was born in Javier, Kingdom of Navarre (in present-day Spain), he was a companion of Ignatius of Loyola and one of the first seven Jesuits.
    • He led an extensive mission into Asia, mainly in the Portuguese Empire of the time and was influential in evangelization work, most notably in India.

    His works

    • He has asked for a special minister to the king of Portugal whose sole office would be to further Christianity in Goa.
    • He also was the first Christian missionary to venture into Japan, Borneo, the Maluku Islands, and other areas.
    • In those areas, struggling to learn the local languages and in the face of opposition, he had less success than he had enjoyed in India.
    • Xavier was about to extend his missionary preaching to China when he died on Shangchuan Island.
    • Known as the “Apostle of the Indies” and “Apostle of Japan”, he is considered to be one of the greatest missionaries since Paul the Apostle.

    Try this question from CSP 2021

    Q. Consider the following statements:

    1. Francis Xavier was one of the founding members of the Jesuit Order.
    2. Francis Xavier died in Goa and a church is dedicated to him there.
    3. The Feast of St. Francis Xavier is celebrated in Goa each year.

    Which of the statements given above are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

    Post your answers here.

     

     

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  • Species in news: Lesser Florican

    In a major discovery, the longest in-country migration route of lesser floricans, the endangered birds of the bustard group, has been tracked for the first time from Rajasthan to Maharashtra’s Ahmednagar district.

    Lesser Florican

    • The lesser florican (Sypheotides indicus), also known as the likh or kharmore, is the smallest in the bustard family.
    • It is endemic to the Indian Subcontinent where it is found in tall grasslands and is best known for the leaping breeding displays made by the males during the monsoon season.
    • The male has a contrasting black and white breeding plumage and distinctive elongated head feathers that extend behind the neck.
    • These bustards are found mainly in northwestern and central India during the summer but are found more widely distributed across India in winter.
    • The only similar species is the Bengal florican (Houbarobsis bengalensis) which is larger and lacks the white throat, collar and elongated plumes.

    Conservation status

    • The Lesser Florican is protected under Schedule 1 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, Lesser Florican
    • The bird is listed as “Critically Endangered” on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List of Threatened Species.

    Threats

    • It is threatened both by hunting and habitat degradation.
    • The species is highly endangered and has been officially hunted to extinction in some parts of its range such as Pakistan.

    Try this PYQ:

    Which one of the following groups of animals belongs to the category of endangered species?

    (a) Great Indian Bustard, Musk Deer, Red Panda, Asiatic Wild Ass

    (b) Kashmir Stag, Cheetah, Blue Bull, Great Indian Bustard

    (c) Snow Leopard, Swamp Deer, Rhesus Monkey, Saras (Crane)

    (d) Lion Tailed Macaque, Blue Bull, Hanuman Langur, Cheetah

     

    Post your answers here.

     

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