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  • 25th November 2021| Daily Answer Writing Enhancement(AWE)

    Topics for Today’s questions:

    GS-1    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.

    GS-2    Effect of Policies and Politics of Developed and Developing Countries on India’s interests, Indian Diaspora.

    GS-3    Effects of Liberalization on the Economy, Changes in Industrial Policy and their Effects on Industrial Growth.

    GS-4   Case Studies

    Questions:

    Question 1)

    Q.1 Volcanoes are located in a fairly clear pattern around the world. Give an account of distribution of volcanoes around the world. (10 Marks)

    Question 2)

    Q.2 WTO members’ positions remain divergent on the equity and inclusion (AEI) for Covid-19 vaccines and other medical products. In light of this, examine the role played by India on the premise that “no one is safe until everyone is safe”. (10 Marks)

    Question 3)

    Q.3 While the sources of growth in an economy are aplenty, there are very few that can potentially address the twin objectives of growth and inclusion.In context of this, examine the impact of the telecom sector on Indian economy and challenges facing the sector. (10 Marks)

    Question 4)  

    Q.4 The issues confronting humanity are multifaceted – from political conflicts and human rights abuses to pandemics and climate change. They are not contained within national borders, nor do they fit into the silos of separate government agencies or academic specialties. What is required is greater international cooperation, mutual respect, abiding by international laws and participative global decision-making. However, over the last decade, it has been observed that international relations have overshadowed these basic tenets of global governance and now we are at the verge of serious global catastrophic risks. When it comes to the structures of global governance, business as usual, is no longer an option. Not only an improvement in our understanding of risks is required but also taking responsibility to lead collective action for a coordinated global response. (a) What do you think are the factors hindering collective actions? (b) Provide a case for the moral obligation of the international community to come together and find solutions to the problems we face. (c) What should be the principles guiding such international cooperation? (20 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 The issues confronting humanity are multifaceted – from political conflicts and human rights abuses to pandemics and climate change. They are not contained within national borders, nor do they fit into the silos of separate government agencies or academic specialties. What is required is greater international cooperation, mutual respect, abiding by international laws and participative global decision-making. However, over the last decade, it has been observed that international relations have overshadowed these basic tenets of global governance and now we are at the verge of serious global catastrophic risks. When it comes to the structures of global governance, business as usual, is no longer an option. Not only an improvement in our understanding of risks is required but also taking responsibility to lead collective action for a coordinated global response. (a) What do you think are the factors hindering collective actions? (b) Provide a case for the moral obligation of the international community to come together and find solutions to the problems we face. (c) What should be the principles guiding such international cooperation? (20 Marks)

    Mentor’s Comments-

    • Discuss the multiple challenges being faced by the global community.
    • List the factors hindering collective actions for a global response such as increasing authoritarianism, increasing protectionism, rise in international disputes, institutional inertia etc
    • Present arguments for international cooperation and global governance and suggest solutions in the context.
    • Conclude accordingly.

  • Q.3 While the sources of growth in an economy are aplenty, there are very few that can potentially address the twin objectives of growth and inclusion.In context of this, examine the impact of the telecom sector on Indian economy and challenges facing the sector. (10 Marks)

    Mentor’s comment-
    • https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/growth-potential-india-telecom-space-7639938/
    • In the intro, mention the large growth dividend of the investment in the telecom sector.
    • In the body mention that every 10 per cent increase in investment in telecom sector leads to 3.2 per cent increase in GDP growth for India. Next mention the significance assumed by the mobile for sophisticated financial integration, JAM trinity, growing number of smartphone users and boom in the fintech etc. In the next part mention the challenges such as erratic nature of policy, AGR issue, and the threat of duopolicy in the sector.
    • Conclude by mentioning the need for reforms in the sector as it acts as a driver of growth for the economy.

  • Q.2 WTO members’ positions remain divergent on the equity and inclusion (AEI) for Covid-19 vaccines and other medical products. In light of this, examine the role played by India on the premise that “no one is safe until everyone is safe”. (10 Marks)

    Mentor’s comment-

    • In the intro, mention the demand for TRIPS waiver for ensuring the access to Covid-19 vaccines by all.
    • In the body mention the challenges in ensuring the TRIPS waiver. Next, mention India’s leadership through the Vaccine Maitri programme which worked on the premise that “no one is safe until everyone is safe”. Through this initiative, India could supply more than 65 million doses of Covid-19 vaccines to about 100 countries. Besides, India also provided critical medicines, diagnostic kits, ventilators and personal protective equipment to more than 150 countries.
    • Conclude by mentioning that it’s high time for the global community to act collectively and urgently to address one of the most pressing global health challenges impacting humanity.

  • Q.1 Volcanoes are located in a fairly clear pattern around the world. Give an account of distribution of volcanoes around the world. (10 Marks)

    Mentor’s Comments-

    • In the introduction, talk about volcanoes and some of the factors affecting their distribution around the world.
    • In the body, focus on the distribution of the volcanoes.
    • Mention volcanoes in Ring of Fire, Alps and Mediterranean, Mid-Atlantic ridges, East Pacific islands etc
    • Draw a diagram if required.
    • Conclude appropriately.

  • 25th November 2021 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

    [WpProQuiz 843]

    [WpProQuiz_toplist 843]

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  • Free Webinar Tomorrow by Retired Indian Forest Service Officer Dr. Sukhdev Singh|| Get Started with a Solid, Fool-Proof Preparation Plan to Study Enviornment & Ecology for UPSC CSE and IFoS Prelims & Mains|| Limited Slots Available, Confirm your Registration Today

    Free Webinar Tomorrow by Retired Indian Forest Service Officer Dr. Sukhdev Singh|| Get Started with a Solid, Fool-Proof Preparation Plan to Study Enviornment & Ecology for UPSC CSE and IFoS Prelims & Mains|| Limited Slots Available, Confirm your Registration Today

    REGISTER HERE TO ATTEND FREE ENVIORNMENT WEBINAR BY DR. sk sINGH (retd. IfoS)

    If there was one visible change in UPSC CSE 2021, then its the high weightage of questions from Enviornment and Ecology. Most of the current affairs questions from Environment and Ecology are not from the last one year and one had to know about conventions and conferences held long time back. About 25-30% of the questions in GS Paper 3 in UPSC Mains are from this subject.

    Many aspirants make the mistake of assuming that Enviornment and Ecology is an easy subject as it tends to overlap with Geography and Science. Post 2013, with the introduction of separate Indian Forest Service Exams, the weightage for this subject has increased as well. Topics such as Biodiversity, Wildlife conservation, Pollution, Sustainable Development, Climate Change and International Organisations have the maximum questions asked.

    Free Open for All Webinar by Retired Indian Forest Officer Dr. Sukhdev Singh

    If as a UPSC aspirant, you also want to appear for Indian Forest Exams and score better in Prelims and GS Paper 3, then this webinar is for you. Dr. Sukhdev Singh will discuss both his work experiences on field and also on important topics that appear in these examinations.

    Dr. Sukhdev Singh has nearly 35 years of experience and served mainly in the Uttarakhand cadre. He retired as the Chief Conservator Forest Officer.

    REGISTER HERE TO ATTEND FREE ENVIORNMENT WEBINAR BY DR. SK SINGH (RETD. IFOS)

    What will you learn from Dr. Sukhdev Singh in this webinar?

    1. Issues concerning wildlife in the past ten years. What are the practical solutions Dr. Sukhdev Singh implemented as an IFoS officer?

    2. Forest and administration. Important conventions and clauses from exam point of view will be discussed.

    3. Issues of Climate Change. What are the important protocols passed by International Organisations?

    4. Current Affairs of Past One year related to Environment. What is happening in India with respect to this?

    5. Biodiversity and Conservation. What are the important wildlife sanctuaries and biodiversity reserves?

    6. Implementing government policy as an Indian Forest Officer. Dr. Sukhdev Singh will speak from his own experiences and also experiences of his colleagues.

    Everything you need to know about IFoS. Why choose IFoS over IAS?

    This live webinar for all students will also be interactive in nature with a Q&A session.

    Webinar Details

    Don’t miss the chance to get value addition inputs to score better in the examination! This webinar is absolutely free. All aspirants are welcome to attend.

    Date – 26th November 2021 (Tomorrow)

    Time – 10:30 AM

    Limited slots are available. So please register by today.

    REGISTER HERE TO ATTEND FREE ENVIORNMENT WEBINAR BY DR. SK SINGH (RETD. IFOS)

  • [pib] Who was Lachit Borphukan?

    The Prime Minister has paid tributes to Lachit Borphukan on Lachit Diwas.

    Who was Lachit Borphukan?

    • The year was 1671 and the decisive Battle of Saraighat was fought on the raging waters of the Brahmaputra.
    • On one side was Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb’s army headed by Ram Singh of Amer (Jaipur) and on the other was the Ahom General Lachit Borphukan.
    • He was a commander in the Ahom kingdom, located in present-day Assam.
    • Ram Singh failed to make any advance against the Assamese army during the first phase of the war.
    • Lachit Borphukan emerged victorious in the war and the Mughals were forced to retreat from Guwahati.

    Lachit Diwas

    • On 24 November each year, Lachit Divas is celebrated statewide in Assam to commemorate the heroism of Lachit Borphukan.
    • On this day, Borphukan has defeated the Mughal army on the banks of the Brahmaputra in the Battle of Saraighat in 1671.
    • The best passing out cadet of National Defence Academy has conferred the Lachit gold medal every year since 1999 commemorating his valour.

    Try this PYQ:

    Q.What was the immediate cause for Ahmad Shah Abdali to invade and fight the Third Battle of Panipat:

    (a) He wanted to avenge the expulsion by Marathas of his viceroy Timur Shah from Lahore

    (b) The frustrated governor of Jullundhar Adina Beg khan invited him to invade Punjab

    (c) He wanted to punish Mughal administration for non-payment of the revenues of the Chahar Mahal (Gujrat Aurangabad, Sialkot and Pasrur)

    (d) He wanted to annex all the fertile plains of Punjab upto borders of Delhi to his kingdom

    Post your answers here.

     

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  • [Yojana Archive] Drone Policy

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    October 2021

    Drones in India

    • Drones, officially known as Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), have been in widespread use in the Indian military since the 1990s.
    • While the first drones were imported into India from Israel for use in active combat, DRDO has since then developed numerous indigenous drones.
    • They have been successfully deployed by the three wings of the Indian Armed Forces.
    • The evolving nature of warfare has prioritised training in and preparation for stealth missions.
    • Drones are a key element of this transformation and are indispensable in reconnaissance, precision targeting, and intelligence gathering, among others.

    Indian Drone Market

    • India is currently the third-largest importer of military-grade drones with 6.8 per cent of total Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) imports according to a report by SIPRI.
    • Reports suggest that India is already the fastest-growing drone market in the world.
    • A January 2020 report by PwC also suggested that the market size of drones in India would be USD 885 million.
    • To leverage this opportunity effectively, therefore, the liberalised policy has been welcomed by industry players and drone enthusiasts alike.
    • It also comes at an opportune time as global businesses expand to include drones in business-efficiency enhancement, speed delivery, and expand operations.

    PLI Scheme for Drone Industry

    • Government has approved Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Drone Industry with incentives worth ₹ 26,058 crore will be provided to industry over five years.
    • This will incentivize emergence of Advanced Automotive Technologies global supply chain in India and help create additional employment of over 7.6 lakh people.
    • It will bring fresh investments of over₹5,000 crore in three years and incremental production of over ₹ 1,500 crore.

    Drone Rules, 2021

    These rules are built on the premise of trust, self-certification, and non-intrusive monitoring. The policy is designed to usher in an era of super-normal growth while balancing safety and security considerations.

    Some of the key features are as under:

    Number of forms: The rules propose to reduce the number of forms required for manufacturing, importing, testing, certifying and operating drones in India from 25 to six.

    Abolishing authorization number: The draft seeks to abolish the unique authorisation number, unique prototype identification number, and certificate of conformance that were previously required for approval of drone flights.

    Digital Sky Platform: Digital Sky, a platform launched by the government in December 2018, will become a single-window system for all approvals under the newly proposed rules.

    Airspace map: An airspace map segregating the entire landmass of India into Green, Yellow and Red zones will be published on the platform within 30 days of notification of the new rules, the government said. The map will also be machine-readable through an Application Programming Interface (API) for easier plotting of drone flight paths.

    Airport Perimeter: The draft rules reduced the airport perimeter from 45 km to 12 km. The rules state that no flight permissions would be required to fly up to 400 feet in green zones and up to 200 feet in the area between 8 and 12 km from the airport perimeter.

    Drone corridors: The government will also publish a policy framework for Unmanned Aircraft System Traffic Management (UTM) within 60 days of notifying the rules. This will also include frameworks for developing “drone corridors” for the safe transfer of goods by drones.

    Drone Promotion Council: The Rules also propose the setting up of a Drone Promotion Council, with the aim of facilitating a business-friendly regulatory regime for drones in India, the establishment of incubators for developing drone technologies and organizing competitive events to showcase drones and counter-drone solutions.

    Others: To implement safety features such as “no permission, no take-off”, real-time tracking and geofencing, drone manufacturers, importers and operators will get six months’ time to comply from the date of notification of the rules.

    Security imperative and Drones

    • The integration of unmanned aircraft systems into national air-force is critical and challenging both.
    • We have incidences were arms, narcotic drugs have been dropped by drones. So, security challenges are increasing.
    • DRDO has come up with an Anti-drone system. This makes India capable of where drones can be jammed.
    • Other is one can shoot the drone through lasers. But this has potential threats to humans.
    • Drones are called eyes in the sky as they are used by law enforcement agencies, fire emergency services, health care facilities.

    Conclusion

    • The drone industry (manufacturing and operation) is still grappling with evolutionary challenges in India.
    • The ministry of civil aviation’s decision to liberalize the drone policy even after the recent drone incidents in Jammu showcases the government’s bold approach.
    • They are necessary to promote the use of the drone and the government must focus on the development of counter-drone technology to address the threat posed by rogue drones.

  • Risks involved in over-valued unicorns

    Context

    The biggest-ever initial public offering (IPO) in India fell flat on its face on the first day of its listing in the stock exchange, with shares being traded at prices less than 27% of the IPO price.

    Rise of unicorns in India and factors driving it

    • Unicorns in diverse sectors: There has been a unicorn gale in India in recent years, covering diverse sectors from fintech to cloud kitchen.
    • Growth in digital payment is reflected in the fintech sector that has contributed the most to the unicorn list.
    • Factors driving growth: An ecosystem which combines thriving digital payments, a growing smartphone user base and digital-first business models adopted by many start-ups has driven expectations of investors, resulting in large-scale fund flows into new business ventures.
    • Growing smartphone user: Expectations are high as the country has around 640 million Internet users, of which 550 million are smartphone users.
    • Growing digital payments: Digital payment has seen a growth of 30.19% as of March 31, 2021 and by the end of September 30, the unified payments interface (UPI) registered 3.5 billion transactions amounting to ₹6.54 trillion.

    FinTech and EdTech leading unicorns

    • American investment firms Tiger Global and Sequoia Capital have been the major investors, providing very quick follow-up rounds of funds across all stages and sectors.
    • Fundamental financial performance of the business is not factored in these decisions which could lead to biased valuations.
    • Idea of disruptive technologies: The idea of disruptive technologies has become a buzzword for characterising start-ups.
    • The idea was that start-ups with limited resources can aim at technology disruption by inventing an entirely new way of getting something done.
    • The story is similar in educational technologies (EdTech) as well.
    • The novel coronavirus pandemic has been a blessing in disguise for EdTech firms, as it is this external environment that is pushing the industry, giving it an acceleration by four to five years.
    • Too many acquisitions with big ambitions to grow inorganically puts pressure on the balance sheet in the years to come as some of the new acquisitions are likely to fail.
    • Even, EdTech firms with reasonably good business models are highly overvalued due to abundant liquidity.
    • Cost of achieving behaviour change: Almost every second advertisement on primetime television is either of a digital payment firm or EdTech platform.
    • New firms in services will have to indulge in this process for a longer period than firms in other industries such as transportation as these firms have to bring about a particular kind of change that customers are significantly comfortable using the service.
    • Firms burn cash to give massive discounts to customers in the hope that people will get so habituated to these platforms that they will remain active even when the prices are hiked.
    • To some extent this worked in the context of mobile telephone services as Indians have got hooked to mobile phones and reoriented spending to buy more sophisticated smartphones and data.
    • But in other services this does not seem to work so easily.
    • The projection flaw: Data by the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE) points to this flaw of over-optimistic demand projections as there are just about 23 million households which earn more than ₹5 lakh per year i.e., less than ₹42,000 a month, which is about 7% of all Indian families.
    • It is only this class which can be coaxed to behavioural changes — i.e. people who can afford various kinds of goods and services.
    • If firms want to go beyond this 7% of households they have to offer bigger discounts, burning more cash, with the possibility that once the discounts are reduced, customers drop off.

    Consider the question “India is witnessing the unicorn boom in the starts-ups. However, valuation of these unicorns has raised concerns. In light of this, examine the factors driving the rise of unicorns in India and why their valuation raises concerns?”

    Conclusion

    We are witnessing new unicorns emerging every month, which are products of inflated valuations to tap more funds to burn more cash. These valuations are solely on the basis of future earnings, with virtually no profits to show in the present.

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  • How to clear UPSC CSE 2022 after doubtful 2021 performance?| Fill Samanvaya for free 1-1 mentorship

    Half-way through your preparation for UPSC-CSE 2022 and feel stressed? After attending UPSC CSE 2021, do you feel the exam is highly unpredictable ? Of course, not! If you want to know what UPSC expects from its candidates every year, then continue reading. 

    click here for samanvaya free 1-1 mentoriship session

    In 2020 alone, Civilsdaily helped 80+ students secure ranks in the exam. Over 25 Civilsdaily students secured ranks in the top 100. Many of these aspirants were also struggling to clear the exam in one attempt. With our guidance, they became more confident and focused to see their LSBNAA dream come true.

    Listen to all their stories and strategies on our toppers talk series, Unherd.

    Do you want to know how we planned their daily timetable till the interview stage? Fill up our mentorship form now to get a detailed 1-on-1 counselling session within the next 24 hours! We combine your hard-work with our guidance to derive the right formula for success!

    Dear Students,

    Many say that the Prelims 2021 paper was harder than Prelims 2020, a close analysis however reveals that there are more similarities than differences. Though one did not expect questions from sports this year, we all can agree that both the papers tested the application of current affairs knowledge to all the subjects.

    Trends from the last five years tell us that UPSC is keener on testing conceptual clarity of topics from the syllabus. So, it’s no longer about reading GS, Optionals and Current Affairs in isolation. If you are reading a plethora of books or watching random videos, it’s time to reconsider your way of preparation. 

    Avoid Common Preparation Mistakes Early On

    Unlike other exams, UPSC decides your fate based on what you have studied for the last 12-15 months over 1 month before the exam. Hence, rectifying preparation mistakes at the eleventh hour will not help you.

    AIR 148 UPSC 2020 topper and our Civilsdaily student Ponmani explains why answer writing with mentorship for Mains is necessary.

    CLICK HERE FOR SAMANVAYA FREE 1-0N-1 MENTORSHIP

    Last month we mentored around 3500 IAS aspirants, some of whom were beginners and others who had an experience of few attempts.

    We resolved common doubts related to right sources for various topics, answer writing for mains and how to crack the personality round. We found out that almost all of these aspirants struggled in one area or the other.

    If someone was excellent in scoring at prelims test series, they were not confident about mains. If someone was good at history, they were not sure about science and technology. If someone had time to revise their GS portions, they did not have time for Optionals.

    But is it wise to neglect your weak areas? Toppers manage to maintain slightly above average scores in all the subjects. 

    How Do Our Mentors Guide You

    This is where you require a mentor. A mentor helps you understand where your preparation stands as of now and what more needs to be done to fulfill the expectations of UPSC. A mentor will help you maintain your focus even when the pressure is high, instead of succumbing to it.

    This is how Civilsdaily mentorship helped Pranav Vijayvergiya clear the exam after 2 failed prelims attempts.

    https://youtu.be/DSwO38weHAA
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    Samanvaya is a mentoring program with 3 phases

    Watch what our Civilsdaily student and UPSC 2020 topper (AIR 42) Shreya feels about our mentoring program.

    1. 30 minute counselling session: Once you fill the form, our senior mentors get on a 30-40 minute call with you to understand your preparation level, study constraints, your strategy for the last 6 months, and create measurable targets for next week, next month and so on.

    2. Access to our invite-only chat platform, Habitat:  This is where you can post your daily doubts, discuss your test questions and have real-time, live discussions on news and op-eds, and connect with other aspirants in your optional groups.

    .3. 1 on 1 mentor allotment: The mentor will be available on scheduled calls with you throughout all the stages of your UPSC preparation and will daily assess, evaluate, and plan the next module according to the available time.

    Who are you?

    Working Professional? Working and studying for UPSC though is not impossible, it certainly gets hectic. Your mentors will go through the entire syllabus of UPSC with you and plan a workable timetable. 

    Full time preparation? If you are allocating a year to prepare for IAS 2022, we will help you pick the right books and design practical & personal strategies that you can follow everyday

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    Once you have filled the form, we will call you within 24 hours.

  • Draft Personal Data Protection Bill, 2021

    The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPP) on the Personal Data Protection Bill of 2019 is said to have adopted the final draft. The Bill will be tabled in the Winter Session of Parliament.

    What is Personal Data?

    • Data can be broadly classified into two types: personal and non-personal data.
    • Personal data pertains to characteristics, traits or attributes of identity, which can be used to identify an individual.
    • Non-personal data includes aggregated data through which individuals cannot be identified.
    • For example, while an individual’s own location would constitute personal data; information derived from multiple drivers’ location, which is often used to analyse traffic flow, is non-personal data.

    What is Data Protection?

    • Data protection refers to policies and procedures seeking to minimise intrusion into the privacy of an individual caused by collection and usage of their personal data.

    Why was a bill brought for Personal Data Protection?

    • In August 2017, the Supreme Court had held that Privacy is a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Constitution.
    • The Court also observed that privacy of personal data and facts is an essential aspect of the right to privacy.
    • In July 2017, a Committee of Experts, chaired by Justice BN Srikrishna, was set up to examine various issues related to data protection in India.
    • The committee submitted its report, along with a Draft Personal Data Protection Bill, 2018 to the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology in July 2018.

    How is personal data regulated currently?

    • Currently, the usage and transfer of personal data of citizens is regulated by the Information Technology (IT) Rules, 2011, under the IT Act, 2000.
    • The rules hold the companies using the data liable for compensating the individual, in case of any negligence in maintaining security standards while dealing with the data.

    Issues with IT Rules, 2011

    • The IT rules were a novel attempt at data protection at the time they were introduced but the pace of development of digital economy has shown its shortcomings.
    • For instance, (i) the definition of sensitive personal data under the rules is narrow, and (ii) some of the provisions can be overridden by a contract.
    • Further, the IT Act applies only to companies, not to the government.

    What does the Personal Data Protection Bill provide?

    • Collection and storage: The bill regulate personal data related to individuals, and the processing, collection and storage of such data.
    • Data Principal: Under the bill, a data principal is an individual whose personal data is being processed.
    • Data fiduciary: The entity or individual who decides the means and purposes of data processing is known as data fiduciary.
    • Data processing: The Bill governs the processing of personal data by both government and companies incorporated in India.
    • Data localization: It also governs foreign companies, if they deal with personal data of individuals in India.
    • General consent: The Bill provides the data principal with certain rights with respect to their personal data. Any processing of personal data can be done only on the basis of consent given by data principal.
    • Data Protection Authority: To ensure compliance with the provisions of the Bill, and provide for further regulations with respect to processing of personal data of individuals, the Bill sets up a DPA.

    Issues with the PDP Bill

    • Exemptions to the govt: Section 35 of the bill permits the Central Government to exempt any agency of the Government from the provisions of the law.
    • No reasonable exemptions: There is no sufficient reason for government agencies to be exempted from basic provisions of the Bill.
    • Easy breach: Though this would be subject to procedures, safeguards, and oversight mechanisms to be prescribed by the Government.
    • Executive hegemony: There is no scope for oversight over the executive’s decision to issue such an order.
    • Arbitrary and intrusive: As demonstrated by the Pegasus case, the current frameworks for protecting citizens from arbitrary and intrusive State action lack robustness.

    Why is the state given exemption?

    • Biggest needy of Data: The State is one of the biggest processors of data, and has a unique ability to impact the lives of individuals.
    • Welfare objectives: It has a monopoly over coercive powers as well have the obligation to provide welfare and services.

    Issues with Exemption to State

    • Grounds of expediency: the use of this provision on grounds of expediency is an extremely low bar for the Government to meet.
    • Non requirement for exemption order: There is no requirement for an exemption order to be proportionate to meeting a particular State function.
    • No oversight on executive actions: There is no scope for oversight over the executive’s decision to issue such an order or any safeguards prescribed for this process.
    • State surveillance: Section 36(a) of the Bill provides for an exception where personal data is being processed against criminal investigation. This provision could therefore encourage vigilantism or enable privatized surveillance.

    Best practices followed across the world

    • The European GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) is commonly seen as the pinnacle of data protection regulation worldwide.
    • The EU law has in place a separate law that deals with the processing of personal data by law enforcement agencies.
    • UK’s Data Protection Act dedicates Part 3 that liberalises certain obligations while at the same time ensuring that data protection rights are also protected.

    Way forward

    • Balancing privacy interests with those of public needs (such as that of State security) is a difficult task.
    • This should undergo rigorous consultations in Parliament taking into confidence all stakeholders.
    • Once debated in Parliament, one can only hope that adequate time and attention is given to finding a better balance between competing interests.

     

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  • Bharat Gaurav Scheme to promote Tourism

    To tap the huge potential of tourism, the Railways has announced the ‘Bharat Gaurav’ Scheme.

    Bharat Gaurav Scheme

    • Under this Scheme, theme-based tourist circuit trains, on the lines of the Ramayana Express, can be run either by private or State-owned operators.
    • Till now, the Railways had passenger segments and goods segments.
    • Now, it will have a third segment for tourism under the Bharat Gaurav.
    • The scheme has been developed after extensive stakeholder discussions and a lot of State Governments, including Odisha, Rajasthan, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, have shown interest.

    Key features

    • Service providers, who can be an individual, company, society, trust, joint venture or consortium will be free to decide themes/circuits.
    • They will offer an all-inclusive package to tourists including rail travel, hotel accommodation and sightseeing arrangement, visit to historical/heritage sites, tour guides etc.
    • They have full flexibility to decide the package cost.
    • The service providers will also be able to design/furnish the interior of the coaches based on the theme and put branding or advertising inside and outside of the train.

     

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  • [pib] Mysuru Declaration on Service Delivery by Panchayats

    The Participants from 16 States signed the Mysuru Declaration and resolved to roll out the Common Minimum Service delivery by Panchayats across the country from April 1, 2022.

    Mysuru Declaration

    • The Mysuru declaration is aimed at recognising Citizen Centric Services as the “Heart of Governance”.
    • It provides key inputs on various aspects of service delivery that are either provided by the panchayats directly or services of other departments that are facilitated by panchayats.

    Highlights of the Declaration

    WE, the Representatives and Officials recognise the efforts to promote inclusive and accountable Local Self Governments in delivery of services, in consonance with the priorities and the aspirations of our citizens.

    We accept responsibility for seizing this moment to strengthen our commitments to promote transparency, empower citizens, and harness the power of new technologies towards timely and quality delivery of services; enhancing citizen service experiences

    We uphold the value of openness in our engagement with citizens to improve services, incorporating diverse views when designing and delivering services. We embrace principles of transparency and open government with a view towards achieving greater prosperity, well-being, and human dignity for sustainable development of local communities.

     

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  • First ever All India Survey on Domestic Workers

    Union Minister for Labour and Employment  has flagged off the first ever All All India Survey on Domestic workers being conducted by Labour Bureau.

    All India Survey on Domestic Workers

    • The Survey  is aimed to estimate the number and proportion of domestic workers at National and State level.
    • It would help find percentage distribution of domestic workers with respect to Live-in/Live-out, formal/ Informal Employment, Migrant/Non-Migrant, their wages and other socio-economic characteristics.
    • The survey will also provide the Household Estimates of Live-in/Live-out domestic workers and average number of domestic workers engaged by different types of households.

    Objectives of the Survey

    • Estimate the number/proportion of DWs at National and State level.
    • Household Estimates of Live-in/ Live-out DWs.
    • Average number of DWs engaged by different types of households.

    Why need such Survey?

    • Domestic workers (DWs) constitute a significant portion of total employment in the informal sector.
    • However, there is a dearth of data on the magnitude and prevailing employment conditions of DW.
    • Hence with the view to have time series data on domestic workers, GoI has entrusted Labour Bureau to conduct an all-India survey on DWs.

    Parameters of the Survey

    The Domestic Worker Survey collects information on the following broad   parameters:

    • Household Characteristics such as HH size, Religion, Social Group, Usual Monthly Consumption Expenditure, Nature of Dwelling unit.
    • Demographic Characteristics such as Name, Age, Relation to Head, Marital Status, General Education Level, Usual Principal Activity Status, Subsidiary Activity Status and Status of DWs.
    • Information on Employer is also collected such as their preferences of DW regarding Gender and marital status, mode of payment of wages, number of days worked, mode of engagement, whether DW services were availed during ii COVID-19 pandemic, medical support given to DWs.

    Scope of the Survey

    • All India States/UTs of India covered are 37 and Districts covered are742
    • Unit of Enumeration is Villages as per Census 2011 and Urban Blocks as per latest phase of UFS.
    • At the all-India level, a total number of 12766 First Stage Units (FSUs) i.e., 6190 villages and 6576 UFS blocks will be covered in the survey.
    • 1,50,000 Households i.e., the Ultimate Stage Units (USU) will be covered.

     

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  • 24th November 2021| Daily Answer Writing Enhancement(AWE)

    Topics for Today’s questions:

    GS-1    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).

    GS-2     Government Policies and Interventions for Development in various sectors and Issues arising out of their Design and Implementation.

    GS-3    Indian Economy

    GS-4    Probity in Governance: 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, Challenges of Corruption.

    Questions:

    Question 1)

     

    Q.1 Discuss the factors for localisation of agro-based food processing industries of North-West India.(10 Marks)

     

    Question 2)

    Q. 2 What are the concerns with use of facial recognition technologies by the police? Suggest the way forward. (10 Marks)

    Question 3)

    Q.3 India is witnessing new unicorns emerging every month, which are products of inflated valuations to tap more funds to burn more cash. In context of this, examine the factors driving the emergence if these unicorns and issues with their valuation. (10 Marks)

    Question 4)  

    Q.4 Increased national wealth did not result in equitable distribution of its benefits. It has created only some “enclaves of modernity and prosperity for a small minority at the cost of the majority.” Justify. (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 Increased national wealth did not result in equitable distribution of its benefits. It has created only some “enclaves of modernity and prosperity for a small minority at the cost of the majority.” Justify. (10 Marks)

    Mentor’s Comments-

    • In the introduction, mention about prevailing inequality in the society inspite of GDP growth in the past decade.
    • In the body, mention the factors responsible for such skewed growth.
    • Also mention different approaches like utilitarian approach, common goods approach etc and their drawbacks.
    • Conclude with a way forward.

  • Q.3 India is witnessing new unicorns emerging every month, which are products of inflated valuations to tap more funds to burn more cash. In context of this, examine the factors driving the emergence if these unicorns and issues with their valuation. (10 Marks)

    Mentor’s comment-
    • https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/over-valued-unicorns-in-a-distressed-economy/article37653501.ece
    • In the intro mention the PayTM ipo and fall in the valuation on first day. 
    • In the body mention factors such as rising number of smartphone users and increasing trend towards adoption of technology, role of investors in providing capital etc.
    • In the concerns mention limited population with high income and spending power raising the questions on future earnings. 
    • Conclude by mentioning the need for caution as negative sentiments could harm the economy in long term. 

  • Q. 2 What are the concerns with use of facial recognition technologies by the police? Suggest the way forward. (10 Marks)

    Mentor’s comment-

  • Q.1 Discuss the factors for localisation of agro-based food processing industries of North-West India.(10 Marks)

    Mentor’s Comments-

    • In the introduction, write about food processing industries and their overall contribution to Indian economy.
    • In the body, list down the factors responsible for growth of these industries in north west India.
    • Also mention some initiatives taken by the government in this regard.
    • Conclude with a positive outlook.

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