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  • What is the Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme?

    Why in the News?

    Recent reports suggest that the government might reduce or discontinue the Sovereign Gold Bond (SGB) scheme due to its high cost.

    Decline in Popularity of SGB:

    • This speculation follows the Union budget’s decision to slash customs duties on gold and silver from 15% to 6%.
    • The reduction in customs duties is expected to decrease demand for SGBs, which has already led to a 2-5% drop in their prices on the National Stock Exchange (NSE).

    About Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs)

    Details
    Launch 2015
    Nature
    • Government securities denominated in grams of gold.
    • Issued by RBI.
    Objective Reduce dependence on gold imports and shift savings from physical gold to paper form.
    Eligibility Resident in India, including individuals, HUFs, trusts, universities, and charitable institutions.
    Denomination and Tenor
    • Denominated in multiples of grams of gold, with a basic unit of 1 gram.
    • Tenor of 8 years with an exit option from the 5th year on interest payment dates.
    Investment Limits
    • Minimum: 1 gram of gold.
    • Maximum: 4 kg for individuals and HUFs,
      • 20 kg for trusts and similar entities per fiscal year.
    Benefits
    • Quantity of gold protected, receiving market price at redemption.
    • Eliminates storage risks and costs.
    • Assured market value at maturity and periodic interest.
    • Free from making charges and purity issues.
    • Held in RBI books or demat form, eliminating scrip loss risk.
    Add-ons
    • Can be used as collateral for loans.
    • Loan-to-value (LTV) ratio set equal to ordinary gold loans.

     

    PYQ: 

    [2016] What is/are the purpose/purposes of Government’s ‘Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme’ and ‘Gold Monetization Scheme’?

    1. To bring the idle gold lying with Indian households into the economy
    2. To promote FDI in the gold and jewellery sector
    3. To reduce India’s dependence on gold imports

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

    https://indianexpress.com/article/business/commodities/gold-customs-duty-may-take-some-shine-off-sovereign-gold-bonds-9485686/

  • Sports Authority of India (SAI) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)  

    Why in the News?

    The Health Ministry has requested the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to implement measures to prevent surrogate advertisements of tobacco and alcoholrelated products by sportspersons.

    About Sports Authority of India (SAI)

    Details
    Establishment Founded in 1984 by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India
    Headquarters Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium Complex, New Delhi, India
    Objectives
    • Promote sports and physical education
    • Develop sports infrastructure
    • Identify and nurture sports talent
    • Conduct coaching and training programs
    Key Programs
    • National Sports Talent Contest Scheme (NSTC)
    • Special Area Games (SAG)
    • SAI Training Centres (STC)
    • Centres of Excellence (COE)
    • National Sports Academies (NSA)
    Major Facilities
    • Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi
    • Indira Gandhi Stadium Complex, New Delhi
    • Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, New Delhi
    • Netaji Subhas National Institute of Sports (NSNIS), Patiala
    Notable Initiatives
    • Khelo India Program
    • Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS)
    • Mission Olympic Cell (MOC)

     

    About Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)

    Details
    Establishment Founded in December 1928
    Headquarters Cricket Centre, Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, India
    Objectives
    • Promote and develop cricket in India
    • Organize domestic and international cricket matches
    • Identify and nurture cricket talent
    • Maintain cricket infrastructure and facilities
    Key Responsibilities
    • Selection of national cricket teams (men’s, women’s, and junior)
    • Organization of domestic cricket tournaments
    • Administration of Indian Premier League (IPL)
    • Conducting training and coaching programs
    Major Tournaments
    • Indian Premier League (IPL)
    • Ranji Trophy
    • Vijay Hazare Trophy
    • Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy
    • Duleep Trophy
    • Irani Cup
    Funding and Support
    • Funded through sponsorships, broadcasting rights, and match revenues
    • Provides financial assistance and contracts to cricketers
    Reforms  Justice Lodha Committee: Result of the report submitted by the Justice Mukul Mudgal Committee after an investigation into the 2013 IPL betting scandal.

     

    PYQ:

    [2021] Consider the following statements in respect of the ICC World Test Championship:

    1. The finalists were decided by the number of matches they won.

    2. New Zealand was ranked ahead of England because it won more matches than England.

    Which of the above statements is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 and 2

  • [1st August 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: The global struggle for a pandemic treaty

    PYQ Relevance:

    Mains:

    Q1 COVID-19 pandemic has caused unprecedented devastation worldwide. However, technological advancements are being availed readily to win over the crisis. Give an account of how technology was sought to aid the management of the pandemic. (UPSC IAS/2020) 

    Q2 Critically examine the role of WHO in providing global health security during the Covid-19 pandemic. (UPSC IAS/2020) 

    Note4Students: 

    Mains: Reasons behind the disagreement on the Pandemic Treaty;

    Mentor comments:  Despite extensive negotiations, 194 WHO member states failed to finalize a historic Pandemic Agreement to bolster global pandemic preparedness and reduce inequities highlighted by COVID-19. At the 77th World Health Assembly (May 27-June 1, 2024), two significant developments occurred. First, amendments to the International Health Regulations (IHR) 2005 were agreed upon, drawn from 300 global reform proposals. These amendments aim to improve response to Public Health Emergencies of International Concern (PHEIC) and introduce a Pandemic Emergency (PE) category, ensuring equitable access to health products and financial support for developing countries, emphasizing solidarity and equity, and mandating a National IHR Authority.

    Let’s learn!

    __

    Why in the News? 

    The 77th World Health Assembly in May 2024 failed to finalize the treaty due to disagreements on key articles, particularly PABS, technology transfer, and the One Health approach.

    Background:

    • The COVID-19 pandemic exposed severe limitations in the International Health Regulations (IHR) and the WHO’s institutional capacities to effectively prevent, prepare for and respond to global health emergencies.
    • In light of the pandemic’s devastating global impact, many countries called for a stronger international framework to deal with future pandemics.
    • Responding to these calls, a special session of the World Health Assembly (WHA) in November 2021 agreed to establish an intergovernmental negotiating body (INB) to draft and negotiate a WHO convention, agreement or other international instrument on pandemic prevention, preparedness and response

    What is the Pandemic Treaty?

    • The Pandemic Treaty, also known as the International Treaty on Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness and Response, is a proposed international agreement currently being negotiated by the 194 member states of the World Health Organization (WHO). 

    Key Provisions

    • Pathogen Access and Benefit Sharing (PABS): The treaty aims to establish a PABS system to ensure that genetic resources and pathogen samples shared from developing countries are reciprocated with corresponding benefits, such as vaccines and diagnostics.
    • Technology Transfer and Intellectual Property: The treaty seeks to address issues related to technology transfer, local production, and intellectual property rights to enhance the manufacturing capacities of low- and middle-income countries.
    • One Health Approach: The treaty emphasizes a holistic approach that recognizes the interconnections between human, animal, and environmental health, promoting coordinated public health measures across these domains.

    Reasons behind the disagreement

    • Pathogen Access and Benefit Sharing (PABS): The PABS mechanism under Article 12  is a central point of contention, with low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) advocating for guaranteed access to at least 20% of shared pandemic products. 
      • In contrast, many high-income countries argue that this percentage should be the maximum limit, with some refusing to agree to any fixed percentage.
    • Technology Transfer and Intellectual Property: Disagreements over technology transfer provisions are significant, with LMICs pushing for mandatory technology transfer and intellectual property waivers to enable local production of vaccines and treatments.
      • High-income countries prefer voluntary agreements, fearing that mandatory requirements could undermine their intellectual property rights.
    • One Health Approach: The One Health approach, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, has faced resistance from LMICs. They view it as an additional burden without adequate funding, while high-income countries strongly support it.
    • Geopolitical Discord: Geopolitical tensions and competing interests between higher- and lower-income countries have hindered progress in negotiations.  
    • Misinformation and Distrust: The negotiations have been affected by misinformation, skepticism, and distrust among member states. Some countries are concerned about the implications of the agreement on their national sovereignty and public health policies.
    • Urgency vs. Comprehensive Solutions: There is a tension between the urgency to finalize an agreement and the desire to address complex issues comprehensively. Some countries are pushing for quick resolutions, while others emphasize the need for thorough discussions to ensure long-term effectiveness.

    Way forward: 

    • Promote Inclusive Dialogue and Mutual Compromise: Need to facilitate continuous, transparent dialogue among all member states to address concerns and build trust. Encourage mutual compromise by balancing the interests of both high- and low-income countries, ensuring that all parties feel their needs and perspectives are being considered. 
    • Strengthen Financial and Technical Support for LMICs: Need to enhance financial and technical assistance for low- and middle-income countries to implement the proposed treaty provisions effectively.
  • Mapping: River Seine

    Why in the News?

    The swimming events in the ongoing Paris Olympics were postponed due to concerns about the water quality of the River Seine.

    Issues with River Seine’s Water Quality:

    • Old Sewage System: Paris’ aged sewage system combines rainwater and wastewater in the same pipes, leading to overflow during heavy rains.
    • Untreated Sewage Discharge: Overflowing pipes cause untreated sewage to be discharged directly into the Seine instead of being treated.
    • Wildlife Contamination: Heavy rains wash wildlife, such as rodents, into the river, adding to the contamination.
    • E. coli Threat: The River often has high levels of E. coli bacteria, which can cause severe gastrointestinal and urinary tract infections.
    • Exceeding Safe Levels: Following heavy rains, E. coli levels in the Seine frequently exceed the safe threshold of 900 colony-forming units (cfu) per 100 ml of water.
    • Long-term Pollution: The Seine has been historically polluted, with a swimming ban in place since 1923 due to health risks.
    • Health Risks: High contamination levels pose significant health risks to swimmers, including infections and illnesses.

    About River Seine

    Details
    Country France
    Length 777 km
    Major Cities Along Course Paris, Troyes, Melun, Rouen, Le Havre
    Major Tributaries Aube, Marne, Yonne, Oise, Eure
    Population in Basin About 17 million people, including the Paris metropolitan area
    Navigability Navigable for about 560 kilometers from the estuary to Burgundy
    Estuary Location Empties into the English Channel at Le Havre and Honfleur
    Estuary Type Tidal estuary with significant tidal influence up to Rouen
    Historical Significance Central to Paris, with landmarks like Notre-Dame Cathedral, Eiffel Tower, and the Louvre along its banks
    UNESCO Status Banks of the Seine in Paris are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site
    Economic Importance Major waterway for commercial shipping and tourism; key ports include Paris, Rouen, and Le Havre
    Recreational Activities Popular for river cruises, boating, fishing, and walking along its banks

     

    PYQ:

    [2020] Consider the following pairs?

    River: Flows into

    1. Mekong:  Andaman sea
    2. Thames: Irish Sea
    3. Volga: Caspian Sea
    4. Zambezi: Indian Ocean

    Which of the pairs above is/are correctly matched?

    (a) Only 1

    (b) Only 2

    (c) 3 Only

    (d) None of the above/More than one of the above.

     

    https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-sports/paris-olympics-triathlon-event-river-seines-water-quality-sewage-system-water-treatment-plants-9485616/

  • [pib] Artificial Insemination in Cattle

    Why in the News?

    • The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying is implementing the Rashtriya Gokul Mission.
      • The mission aims to develop and conserve indigenous bovine breeds, genetically upgrade the bovine population, and enhance milk production and productivity.

    About Rashtriya Gokul Mission:

    Details
    About
    • Initiated in December 2014.
    • Announced under the National Programme for Bovine Breeding and Dairy Development during the 12th Five Year Plan. 
    • Continued under Rashtriya Pashudhan Vikas Yojana (2021-2026) with a budget of Rs. 2400 crore.
    Nodal Ministry Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying
    Objectives
    • Enhance productivity of bovines and increase sustainable milk production using advanced technologies.            
    • Propagate the use of high genetic merit bulls for breeding.
    • Expand artificial insemination coverage by strengthening the breeding network and delivering services at farmers’ doorsteps.
    • Promote scientific and holistic conservation of indigenous cattle and buffalo rearing.
    Significance
    • Increased productivity, benefiting all cattle and buffaloes in India, with a focus on small and marginal farmers.
    • Empowers women, who perform over 70% of livestock farming tasks.
    Components
    1. Availability of High Genetic Merit Germplasm
    2. Extension of Artificial Insemination Network
    3. Development and Conservation of Indigenous Breeds
    4. Skill Development
    5. Farmers’ Awareness
    6. Research, Development, and Innovation in Bovine Breeding
    Implementing Agency State Implementing Agency (SIA) viz. Livestock Development Boards
    Significant Initiatives
    • Gopal Ratna Awards: For farmers maintaining the best herd of Indigenous Breed and practicing best management practices.          
    • Kamdhenu Awards: For best-managed Indigenous herd by Institutions/Trusts/ NGOs/ Gaushalas or best-managed Breeders’ societies.
    • Gokul Grams: Integrated cattle development centers focusing on promoting indigenous cattle rearing and conservation in a scientific manner.
    • National Kamdhenu Breeding Centre (NKBC): Centre of Excellence for the holistic and scientific development and conservation of Indigenous Breeds.
    • E-Pashu Haat: Web portal providing information on pet cattle and facilitating trading of bovine animals.
    • Nakul Prajnan Bazaar: E-market portal connecting breeders and farmers for quality, disease-free bovine germplasm.
    • Pashu Sanjivni: Animal wellness program providing animal health cards and unique identification, uploading data on the National Database.
    • Advanced Reproductive Technology (ART): Includes Assisted Reproductive Technique- IVF/Multiple Ovulation Embryo Transfer (MOET) and sex-sorted semen technique.
    • National Bovine Genomic Center for Indigenous Breeds (NBGC-IB): To be established for selecting breeding bulls of high genetic merit at a young age using highly precise gene-based technology.

    Key Initiatives for Artificial Insemination:

    • Multi-Purpose Artificial Insemination Technicians in Rural India (MAITRI): This initiative provides trained manpower for delivering quality artificial insemination services at farmers’ doorsteps.
    • Nationwide Artificial Insemination Programme: This programme extends artificial insemination coverage among bovines using semen from high genetic merit bulls of indigenous breeds.
    • Induction of High Genetic Merit Bulls: This program produces bulls with known genetic potential through progeny testing and pedigree selection, supplying these bulls to semen stations for quality semen dose production.
    • Strengthening of Semen Stations: Efforts are made to improve the quality of semen production by formulating minimum standard protocols and establishing a Central Monitoring Unit for evaluation and grading of semen stations.
    • Breed Purity Tests: To protect indigenous breeds from indiscriminate breeding, breed purity tests are conducted for all imported germplasm.
    • Guidelines for Import and Export of Bovine Germplasm: The Department has formulated guidelines to regulate the import of germplasm and prevent the ingress of exotic diseases, ensuring the safety and purity of bovine genetics within the country.

    PYQ:

    [2012] Consider the following crops of India:

    1. Cowpea
    2. Green gram
    3. Pigeon pea

    Which of the above is/are used as pulse, fodder and green manure?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

    [2015] Livestock rearing has a big potential for providing non-farm employment and income in rural areas. Discuss suggesting suitable measures to promote this sector in India.

  • 85th death anniversary of Shaheed Udham Singh

    Why in the News?

    • On July 31, 1940, Indian revolutionary leader Udham Singh was executed at the Pentonville prison in London for killing Michael O’Dwyer, the former lieutenant governor of Punjab.

    Udham Singh (1899-1940) and his Contributions:

    Details
    Birth and Early Life Singh was born in Sunam in Punjab’s Sangrur district in 1899.
    Political Activism Became associated with the Ghadar Party while in the US, which was founded by Sohan Singh Bhakna in 1913 and headquartered in California.
    Purpose and Actions In 1934, Singh travelled to London to assassinate Michael O’Dwyer, the former Lieutenant Governor of Punjab during the 1919 Jallianwala Bagh massacre.
    Reason for Targeting O’Dwyer O’Dwyer had ordered Brigadier Reginald Dyer to Amritsar before the massacre, fearing a second Indian mutiny due to Hindu-Muslim unity and demonstrations.
    Assassination of O’Dwyer On March 13, 1940, Singh shot O’Dwyer at a meeting in Caxton Hall, London.
    Arrest and Execution Arrested immediately, held in Brixton prison, sentenced to death, and hanged on July 31, 1940, at Pentonville Prison.
    Legacy and Recognition
    • Regarded as a hero for avenging the Jallianwala Bagh massacre.
    • Gandhi termed it an “act of insanity”.
    • He symbolized Hindu-Sikh-Muslim unity by adopting the name ‘Ram Mohamed Singh Azad’ during his trial.
    Posthumous Honors
    • His remains were returned to India in 1974 and cremated in his village in Sunam.
    • His statue was installed at Jallianwala Bagh in 2018;
    • Udham Singh Nagar district in Uttarakhand is named after him.

     

    PYQ:

    [2014] The Ghadr (Ghadar) was a:

    (a) Revolutionary association of Indians with headquarters at San Francisco.

    (b) Nationalist organization operating from Singapore

    (c) Militant organization with headquarters at Berlin

    (d) Communist movement for India’s freedom with head-quarters at Tashkent

  • ‘Zombies’ in our Genes helped us evolve      

    Why in the News?

    Research suggests that around 8% of the human genome is composed of Endogenous Retroviruses (ERVs) often referred to as ‘zombie’ regions.

    Retroviruses and Human Genome Integration

    • Most viruses can’t affect the human genome, but retroviruses are an exception.
    • Retroviruses can integrate and reshape the genomes of their hosts.
    • They have an RNA genome and can reverse-transcribe it to DNA, inserting it into the host’s genome.
    • This process is facilitated by the enzyme reverse transcriptase.
    • Discovered by Howard Temin and David Baltimore in 1971, this enzyme converts the virus’s RNA into a corresponding DNA sequence.
    • Historical Discoveries:
      • Viral causes of cancer were known even before the mechanism was understood.
      • In 1908, Oluf Bang and Vilhelm Ellermann discovered the viral cause of chicken leukosis.
      • In 1957, Ludwik Gross isolated a leukaemia-causing virus in mice.

    What are Endogenous Retroviruses (ERVs)?

    • ERVs are remnants of ancient viral infections that have integrated into the genome of the host species.
    • When these retroviruses infect germ cells (sperm or egg cells), their genetic material can be passed down to the next generation, becoming a permanent part of the host’s DNA.
    • Zombie Regions:
      • They refer to inactive viral sequences within the genome that no longer produce functional viruses but remain as embedded genetic fossils.
      • These regions are a result of retrovirus integration that has lost its ability to replicate and produce proteins, yet they persist in the host’s DNA.

    Evolutionary Significance of ERVs:

    • In the life cycle of a retrovirus, reverse-transcribed DNA is integrated into the host’s DNA with the help of integrase.
    • The viral DNA, called a provirus, hijacks human cells, turning them into virus-making factories.
    • Over tens of thousands of years, many retroviruses have left genomic elements in human genome, contributing to evolutionary processes.
    • Example:
      • Syncytins are genes thought to have descended from ERVs and are crucial for placental development. These genes originally came from viruses and were acquired during mammalian evolution.

    Their Contribution to Human Biology

    • ERVs are highly expressed in the placenta and may influence conditions like preeclampsia.
    • Researchers found that a particular RNA derived from an ERV is dysregulated in early-onset preeclampsia, suggesting it could be used as a biomarker for the condition.
    • ERVs play a role in cell-type differentiation during embryo development.
    • A protein called MERVL-gag is derived from an ERV. This transition is crucial for producing pluripotent stem cells capable of forming different cell types.
    • Researchers also found that a human ERV element LTR10 affects tumour formation in colorectal cancer.

    PYQ:

    [2021] Consider the following statements :​

    1. Adenoviruses have single-stranded DNA genomes whereas retroviruses have double-stranded DNA genomes.​

    2. Common cold is sometime caused by an adenovirus whereas AIDS is caused by a retrovirus.​

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

  • [UAP August Batch Launch For UPSC 2025] Our UAP Mentorship Student Got AIR 2, Animesh Pradhan, First Attempt, Working Professional. Join UAP 2025 & 2026.

    [UAP August Batch Launch For UPSC 2025] Our UAP Mentorship Student Got AIR 2, Animesh Pradhan, First Attempt, Working Professional. Join UAP 2025 & 2026.

    Animesh Pradhan, Age 24, Attempt: 1st, UPSC-CSE AIR 2.
    A graduate of NIT Rourkela, working as a full-time employee in Indian Oil Corp., he cleared UPSC CSE on his first attempt at the age of 24. He lost his father at an early age and was left with his Mother and elder sister. Unfortunately, his Mother passed away 40 days ago and couldn’t see her Son’s success and cherish it. His sister got married in January last year. He is a very committed, humble, and diligent student with high professional skills in managing work and studies.

    AIR 2, Animesh Pradhan at Civilsdaily Delhi Centre Today

    Schedule a 1-1 call with Civilsdaily’s Mentor for focused UPSC Prep

    UPSC UPSC preparation, AIR 2 Animesh Pradhan, UAP, Civilsdaily IAS

    With all the lows in life, he came with the hope that one day, his mother would see him becoming an IAS officer. Even though one wish in these two remained unachieved, wherever his mother is, her wishes will be with him, and if there is heaven at all, she might be celebrating this in that heaven.

    AIR 2, Animesh Pradhan On Call With Civilsdaily Mentor Showing His Gratitude

    We hope he achieves much more success and wish him enough grit to achieve whatever he wants in life. We expect him not to stop here and make this a mere small achievement in his list of aspirations.

    Animesh Pradhan enrolled in UAP Mentorship, and we made sure that he got his name on the list.

    Schedule a 1-1 call with Civilsdaily’s mentor

    Why Civilsdaily Mentorship and Programs Are Unique?

    Element No. 1: The System

    The first element of the powerful mentorship program at CD is – The System.

    The system is the method that is used during the program. One of the first surprising elements of a Civilsdaily program is that we do an early assessment of the current stage of aspirants. This is done in 10+ dimensions. Along with that, you get a lot of study material in advance. Unlike other courses that give you average content when the course begins, you get high-quality content for UPSC Prep well in advance. The reason for this is simple: The Mentor is not around to create “shock and awe”. Instead, the element that really helps learning is the “safe zone”. When aspirants get the material in advance, it gives them time to learn and absorb it. And then, when the initial assessments happen in the form of mock tests, the aspirant is able to apply the learning.

    One big reason we fail to learn and progress in UPSC Prep is that we do not have time to practice and attempt mocks. 

    No one is around to correct our mistakes. All we get is an endless stream of information, and mastery over exam is further away than ever. The notes themselves need design: lots of examples, relevance to PYQs, and easy-to-read language. The syllabus content needs to be broken up into consumable chunks. It’s design, design and more design. Check our atomic and flash notes, and you will understand what we mean. A well-constructed system is the first element of the program at CD but by no means the most important.

    Trying to cope with breathless content all at once is extremely intimidating for the aspirants. When you’re in a Civilsdaily Mentorship program, you get the content well in advance. There’s no need to create “shock and awe” while mentoring. You learn better when you know and own the content, using the course to practice and get better at it instead.

    Element No. 2: The Group

    A journey of a thousand miles can be really intimidating without a group because UPSC -CSE requires MCQ and answer writing aptitude, which requires constant practice. When you work alone, it’s easy to give up or get distracted. A group is what gets you ahead. But how do you get a group that’s focused, smart, and helpful? Do such groups even exist?

    There’s a saying in Africa: If you want to go quickly, go alone. If you want to go far, go with a group. And yet, not any group will do, will it? You’ve been in Telegram groups before, and the terms “kind, helpful and smart” don’t come to mind, do they?

    The one thing that will amaze you at Civilsdaily is how much you come to rely on your group. At first, many aspirants assume that their progress is a lonely journey. They learn what’s required, do their mocks, and when the course is done, they get to the finish line.

    And yet habit-creation reveals something entirely different.

    Snagging a bad habit is relatively easy. The moment you have to build a “good habit,” it’s a lot harder to stay motivated—unless, of course, you have a group.

    The aspirant groups at the Civilsdaily course are brilliant, focused and helpful.

    It almost seems hard to find such an active, helpful bunch of people. And the reason why you’ll find this level of camaraderie here, is because of several reasons. But the biggest reason of all is because we’re selective.

    We only let people in if they pass our filters.

    We also will not have overloading of any kind. Our program accepts limited aspirants. You simply will not see the ocean full of aspirants you see on other courses. Finally, we break up the groups into even smaller groups of six or seven aspirants. We keep it small and focused. This gets you closer to the finish line. In short, you go far.

    Element No. 3: Daily and Weekly Practice

    Without practice, mastery of this exam is difficult. Without daily and weekly practice, you have a “decay problem.” Other courses will give you content and mocks once a month and won’t provide any kind of mentor feedback. This is a recipe for disaster. You won’t know if you are making any progress at all. 

    That’s not how we run our programs.

    When you’re a part of the Civilsdaily Mentorship program, whether you’re a beginner or veteran, you have a schedule that is unique to you and your requirements for the duration of the program. As you’d expect, all this is designed with “tiny increments” in mind, but it is the daily and weekly practice that keeps away the decay.

    And everything is enriched with a 1:1 mentor call.

    Your Mentor checks your preparation and works with you to ensure progress—there is no exception. This enables you to learn bit by bit instead of being dumped with endless content that you might never use in an exam. When you consider all three elements: the system, the group, and the daily and weekly practice, you are able to create a habit. This habit leads to success in exam.

    Any new subject or mock can be a little unnerving when you don’t get regular practice. Our program is designed to help you learn layer by layer, and it involves small steps done daily. That way, if you press the “wrong button,” we can learn from the mistake, fix it, and move ahead at an even pace.

    This attention to detail is what makes the Civilsdaily Mentorship Program among the best. But you’ll find that out for yourself.

    To explore our Mentorship and schedule a pre-enrollment call, Fill this Mentorship Form (Free for the next 24 hours) to connect with our mentors.

    Schedule a 1-1 call

    The heart of the Civilsdaily platform is the Foundation Program and Ultimate Assessment Program (UAP). For years, aspirants have enrolled here because they couldn’t find such depth and passion towards quality content and Mentorship anywhere. Their search inevitably ends at Civilsdaily. Enrollment in these programs and Mentorship also makes us accountable to aspirants for the value they get. 

    In the past few years, we’ve worked quietly in the background with hundreds of aspirants; many now serve as IAS, IPS, IFS, and more. We are very proud of what we’ve achieved. Here are some of the recent rankers who show us gratitude.

    Fill up This Mentorship Form (Free for the next 24 hours) to connect with our mentors.

  • On discarding indexation for LTCG    

    Why in the news?

    Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s decision to eliminate indexation for calculating long-term capital gains (LTCG) tax in the Union Budget has received a lukewarm response from stakeholders.

    Changes in the LTCG Regime

    • The new LTCG regime removes the indexation benefit for property, gold, and other unlisted assets.
    • The LTCG tax rate is reduced from 20% to 12.5%.
    • For assets purchased before 2001, the fair market value as of April 1, 2001, is considered the cost of acquisition.

    What is long-term capital gains (LTCG) tax? 

    • LTCG refers to the profit realized from the sale of an asset that has been held for more than one year. This includes various types of assets such as stocks, bonds, real estate, and mutual funds. 
    • If an asset is sold before this holding period, the gains are classified as short-term capital gains (STCG) and are taxed at different rates.

    Why has the Union Finance Minister done away with indexation for computing long-term capital gains (LTCG) tax?

    • Simplification of Tax Computation: The Finance Minister proposed the change to “ease computation of capital gains for the taxpayer and tax administration.” The intention is to simplify the tax process.
    • Uniform Tax Rate: Long-term gains on all financial and non-financial assets would now be taxed at a flat rate of 12.5%, replacing the previous tiered structure.
    • High real estate return: The Income Tax department believes that the real estate returns (12-16% per annum) are higher than indexation for inflation (4-5%). Thus, it predicts “substantial tax savings” for a “vast majority” of taxpayers under the new system.

    What is indexation?

    • Indexation is a mechanism used to adjust the original purchase price of an asset to account for inflation. It helps in calculating the real gains and prevents inflation from inflating the tax liability. The adjusted purchase price is called the indexed cost of acquisition.

    How does Indexation help in Tax Savings?

    • Adjusts the purchase price for inflation: Indexation increases the original purchase price of an asset to account for inflation between the time of purchase and sale. This results in a lower taxable capital gain.
    • Reduces the taxable capital gains: By revising the purchase price upwards using the Cost Inflation Index, indexation reduces the difference between the sale price and purchase price. This lowers the taxable capital gains amount.
    • Leads to lower tax liability: With a reduced taxable capital gain, the tax payable on it also decreases. For example, on a ₹48 lakh gain from selling a house, indexation can bring down the taxable gain to ₹28.6 lakh, saving ₹4,264 in tax (assuming 20% LTCG rate).

    What has been the feedback from corporates and industry regarding the move?

    • Concerns Over Increased Tax Liability: Many stakeholders expressed apprehension that the removal of indexation would lead to higher tax obligations for ordinary investors, particularly in the real estate sector.
      • There are fears that this might encourage the undervaluation of properties to reduce capital gains tax and potentially increase black money transactions in real estate.
    • Mixed Reactions from Realty Players: While some real estate developers and consultants indicated that the removal of indexation might not significantly impact demand and prices, especially for primary home buyers, they noted that high-end properties could see a drop in demand.
      • Some developers viewed the changes positively and said that the lowered tax rate (from 20% to 12.5%) could make real estate a more attractive long-term investment.
    • Government Justifications and Clarifications: The government has argued that the new tax regime simplifies the capital gains tax structure and is beneficial for most taxpayers.

    Way forward: 

    • Transitional Provisions: Govt. should implement transitional provisions for existing investments to ease the shift from the old system to the new one.
    • Strengthen the monitoring system: Need to strengthen monitoring mechanisms to prevent the undervaluation of properties and reduce black money transactions.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q Comment on the important changes introduced in respect of the Long-term Capital Gains Tax (LCGT) and Dividend Distribution Tax (DDT) in the Union Budget for 2018-2019. (UPSC IAS/2018)

  • AI needs cultural policies, not just regulation    

    Why in the news?

    Only by providing fair and broad access to data can we unlock AI’s full potential and ensure its benefits are shared equitably.

    Present Scenario of ‘Data Race vs. Ethics’

    • Data Demand vs. Quality: The race for data has intensified as AI systems, particularly Large Language Models (LLMs), require vast amounts of high-quality data for training. 
      • However, there is a growing concern that this demand may compromise ethical standards, leading to the use of pirated or low-quality datasets, such as the controversial ‘Books3’ collection of pirated texts.

    What are Large Language Models (LLMs)?

    Large Language Models (LLMs) are advanced AI systems that can understand and generate human-like text by learning from vast amounts of data, enabling a wide range of language-related applications.

     

    • Feedback Loops and Bias Amplification: The reliance on existing datasets can create feedback loops that exacerbate biases present in the data.
      • As AI models are trained on flawed datasets, they may perpetuate and amplify these biases, resulting in skewed outputs that reflect an unbalanced and often Anglophone-centric worldview.
    • Ethical Considerations: The urgency to acquire data can overshadow ethical considerations. This raises questions about the fairness and accountability of AI systems, as they may be built on datasets that do not represent the diversity of human knowledge and culture.

    Challenges towards the Sources

    • Lack of Primary Sources: Current LLMs are primarily trained on secondary sources, which often lack the depth and richness of primary cultural artefacts.
      • Important primary sources, such as archival documents and oral traditions, are frequently overlooked, limiting the diversity of data available for AI training.
    • Underutilization of Cultural Heritage: Many repositories of cultural heritage, such as state archives, remain untapped for AI training.
      • These archives contain vast amounts of linguistic and cultural data that could enhance AI’s understanding of humanity’s diverse history and knowledge.
    • Digital Divide: The digitization of cultural heritage is often deprioritized, leading to a lack of access to valuable data that could benefit AI development.
      • This gap in data availability disproportionately affects smaller companies and startups, hindering innovation and competition with larger tech firms.

    Case Studies from Italy and Canada

    • Italy’s Digital Library Initiative: Italy allocated €500 million from its ‘Next Generation EU’ package to develop a ‘Digital Library’ project aimed at making its rich cultural heritage accessible as open data. However, this initiative has faced setbacks and deprioritization, highlighting the challenges of sustaining investment in cultural digitization.
    • Canada’s Official Languages Act: This policy, once criticized for being wasteful, ultimately produced one of the most valuable datasets for training translation software.

    Conclusion: There is a need to implement robust ethical guidelines and standards for data collection and usage in AI training. These standards should ensure that datasets are sourced legally, represent diverse cultures and perspectives, and minimize biases. Encourage collaborations between tech companies, governments, and cultural institutions to develop and adhere to these guidelines.