India’s Aspirations for UNSC Permanent Membership - By Satish Kumar Karna
Permanent membership of the United Nations Security Council is an important and legitimate aspiration for India in order to discharge its rightful role in the maintenance of international peace and security. Being the largest democratic country, India is trying to get the coveted permanent seat at the UNSC for years. Currently, the Security Council consists of 5 permanent members- the US, UK, France, Russia and China. Four among the P5
India's foreign trade- prospects and challenges - By Chandrakant Singh
Foreign Trade has been one of the most significant determinants of economic development in a country. The foreign trade of a country consists of inward and outward movement of goods and services, which result into outflow and inflow of foreign exchange from one country to another country. International trade is a vital part of development strategy and an effective instrument of economic growth, employment generation and poverty alleviation in an economy.
Social Justice in the Digital Economy - By Chronicle Editorial Team
Are technological advances and equitable development at odds? That’s one question in focus as we mark World Day of Social Justice, which this year looks closer at how to ensure the digital economy does not deepen inequality. Visions of a global knowledge-based economy and universal electronic commerce, characterized by the ‘death of distance’ must be tempered by the reality that half the world’s population has never made a telephone call,
Vishal Saraswat - All India Rank -1 AIR - Civil Services Examination - 2019
Bio Data Name - Vishal Saraswat Dob -25/06/1995 Father’s Name- Shivprakash Saraswat Mothers Name - Rajeshwari Home District- Mathura 10th- Sacred Heart Convent High school, Ahmednagar (85.2%)-2011 12th - St. Pauls Sr Sec School, Etah (90%)-2013 Graduation- Bachelor of Arts 2013-16 ( Agra University) Post-graduation- M.A. Economics 2016-2018 (Agra university) 2nd attempt in UPPSC C.S.C. : Achieving top slot in the Judicial Services Examination is no small feet; accept our heartiest congratulations on your splendid success. Vishal: Thank you very much, this is really a surprise for me. I never expected rank 1 in UPPSC because last time I didn't qualify for any post. C.S.C. : What is your inspiration for becoming an IAS officer? Whom do you give credit for your success? What is the role of family and others (teacher, friends) in your preparation and success? Vishal: Family and friends played a dominant role in my preparation. Shri .A.P.J Abdul Kalamji is my inspiration. Bijendra Singh sir from ECO- VISION classes supported me in my preparation days. I took only economics optional classes from eco vision classes under the guidance of Bijendra sir. C.S.C. : What strategy one should follow for preparing for Examination General Studies Prelims & Mains? Did you integrate your Prelims and Mains preparation or was it separate? Vishal: Pre and mains is an integrated and interdependent study. You need to first collect the best sources for preparation. Revision is the key to success. Revise it 5-7 times so that all material is reminded in examination. Prelims is informative and factual whereas mains is a subjective study. Focus more on current events and try to link them in the answer. Take support of some good YouTube channels for study. C.S.C. : How much time did you devote for Prelims, Mains, Interview, Optional ? How did you manage your time in both prelims and mains examinations? Vishal: It took 3 years to clear this exam. I was not able to get selected last year because of less score in optional. This year I focused more on optional i.e. economics. During mains you need to devote maximum time for your studies. Prepare short and small notes of every topic so that you can revise it timely. C.S.C. : Did you prepare notes? How helpful are the notes? What is your advice on notes-making? Vishal: Yes, I prepared notes on current topics. So that it would be easy to revise them . Issues and topics on paper 3 and paper 4 need to be made by your own so that you can remember them. Prepare notes on those topics which commission asks normally every year. Like women , agriculture, NGOs etc. C.S.C. : What was your optional? What was the basis of selecting this optional? What strategy one should follow for Optional? Vishal: My optional was economics because I did my graduation, post-graduation and net JRF in economics. Economics is a practical subject and requires graph and subjective study. I did coaching from eco vision classes for economics optional. Basics should be focussed more in economics optional. C.S.C. : What was your preparation strategy and books which you referred for Ethics Paper? Vishal: For paper 4 ethics, I read lexicon and notes of network IAS . More focus should be on answer writing . And interlinking examples from present world to the answer. C.S.C. : Tell us something about preparation of Essay paper. Vishal: Essay is an essence of the knowledge and ideas integrated. Use of quotations and examples is important in writing essays. Use of statements of Mahatma Gandhi, Mother Teresa, Swami Vivekananda etc should be used. C.S.C. : What was your style of writing in the exam? How was it distinct from the general writing style? How did you develop this writing style? Vishal: Try to make use of graphs and diagram in the answer. Try to use data and facts in the answer so that it becomes interesting and something different for the evaluator. C.S.C. : How did you prepare for interview? Which type of questions were asked in interview? Did you answer all? Was there any specific area they emphasised upon? Vishal: I prepared my optional for interview and current issues of farmers protest for the interview. But my interview was mainly on paper 4 . Questions were asked on compassion, passion, rationality, attitude, aptitude, temperance etc . I was not able to answer 2-3 questions . The board was very cordial and supportive. C.S.C. :Importance of coaching in the preparation of exam. Vishal: Coaching helps in regularisation of study. It helps in planning well time table. But preparation can be done by self also. Today's time online education has brought revolution in the field of learning. C.S.C. : What is the role of Civil Services Chronicle in your success? Vishal: I always read Chronicle magazine during prelims because the facts covered in it are always exam oriented. No doubt Chronicle magazine is an exam and student oriented magazine. It really helped me in my preparation. C.S.C. : What is your source of Preparation. Which Books, Magazines, News Papers and Online Sources were used by you during your preparation? Vishal: All NCERTs from 6th to 12lth (excluding Maths and Science). History- Spectrum Art & culture- Nitin Singhania Polity - M Laxmikanth Geography - Khullar Economics- Ramesh Singh Current affairs - Vision IAS magazine, Chronicle Magazine. Ethics - Lexicon Environment- Shankar
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SBI joins JPMorgan's Blockchain-based Payment Network State Bank of India has tied up with JPMorgan to use the US bank’s blockchain technology to speed up overseas transactions. The tie up is expected to reduce SBI customers’ transaction costs and time taken for payments. SBI has integrated Liink into its operations to exchange
Agriculture
Agriculture Infrastructure and Development Cess
Agriculture Infrastructure & Development Cess (AIDC) has been introduced in the Budget 2021-22 to aid the agri sector. The cess is not uniform and varies from product to product. AIDC is a tax that the Indian government imposes on the commercial production of agricultural produce. The rate charged depends on the
National Bee Keeping and Honey Mission
Keeping in view the importance of beekeeping as part of the Integrated Farming System in the country, government on 11th February, 2021, approved the allocation for Rs. 500 crores for National Beekeeping & Honey Mission (NBHM) for three years (2020-21 to 2022-23). Announced as part of the AtmaNirbhar Bharat scheme,
One District One Focus Produce Programme
On 27th February, 2021, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare in consultation with the Ministry of Food Processing Industries finalized the products for One District One Focus Product (ODOFP). The list of products has been finalized after taking inputs from the States/UTs and Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).
Extension of National e-Governance Plan in Agriculture
On 12th February, 2021, government approved extension of National e-Governance Plan in Agriculture (NeGPA) up to March, 2021. It was launched in 2010-11 in 7 pilot States and in 2014-15, the scheme was further extended for all the remaining States and 2 UTs. It seeks to achieve rapid development in India
Government Policy
Draft Blue Economy Policy
On 17th February, 2021, the government rolled out the Draft Blue Economy policy for India in the public domain inviting suggestions and inputs from various stakeholders including industry, NGOs, academia, and citizens. The Ministry of Earth Sciences prepared the draft blue economy policy framework in line with the Government of India’s
MCA21 Version 3.0
The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) will launch data analytics driven MCA21 Version 3.0., during the fiscal 2021-22. MCA21 system is the first Mission Mode e-Governance project of Government of India and it is a technology-driven forward-looking project, envisioned to strengthen enforcement, promote Ease of Doing Business, enhance user experience, facilitate
Industry
Mega Investment Textiles Parks (MITRA) Scheme
In the Union Budget 2021-22, the Government has proposed a scheme of Mega Investment Textiles Parks (MITRA) Scheme. It seeks to enable the textile industry to become globally competitive and boost exports. Need India has already sanctioned 59 textile parks under the Scheme for Integrated Textile Parks (SITP), but due to
PLI Scheme for Pharmaceutical Manufacturing
On 24th February, 2021, the Union Cabinet approved Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Pharmaceuticals over a period of Financial Year 2020-21 to 2028-29. The scheme will be part of the umbrella scheme for the Development of Pharmaceutical Industry. It seeks to enhance India's manufacturing capabilities by increasing investment and production
Certified Jute Seed Distribution Plan
On 15th February, 2021, the Ministry of Textiles launched a Certified Jute Seed Distribution Plan under Jute ICARE Program. Jute Corporation of India (JCI) had in 2019, signed an MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) with National Seeds Corporation for commercial distribution of 1,000 Metric Tonne certified jute seeds for the year 2021-22. Certified
Reports & Indices
India Energy Outlook 2021
On 9th February, 2021, the International Energy Agency (IEA) released the India Energy Outlook 2021 report. The India Energy Outlook is based on detailed modelling of a set of scenarios exploring how India’s energy sector might evolve between now and 2040. Key Findings India is a major force in the global energy
News Bytes
Start-up India Seed Fund Scheme
On 5th February, 2021, government approved the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) for the period of next four years starting from 2021-22. It seeks to provide financial assistance to startups for proof of concept, prototype development, product trials, market entry and commercialization. It will be implemented with effect from 1st
Accommodative Monetary Policy
The Reserve Bank's Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) members, in their recent meeting, expressed the need to continue with the accommodative monetary policy (AMC) to ensure that economic recovery gains greater traction and becomes broad-based. Also known as easy monetary policy or loose credit policy, accommodative monetary policy occurs when a central
Expert Committee on Primary (Urban) Co-operative Banks
As part of the Statement on Developmental and Regulatory Policies released along with the Monetary Policy Statement on February 5, 2021, the Reserve Bank of India announced setting up of an Expert Committee on primary urban cooperative banks (UCBs). The eight-member committee will be chaired by former RBI deputy governor
Make In India 2.0
The government has stressed special focuses on 27 sectors under Make in India 2.0. The Make in India programme was launched in 2014, and it aims to encourage manufacturing in India and galvanize the economy with dedicated investments in manufacturing and services. Objectives of Make in India 2.0To increase the
One Nation One Ration Card
Recently, Rajasthan became the twelfth state in the country to successfully undertake 'One Nation One Ration Card system' reform stipulated by the Department of Expenditure. The Union Government launched the 'One Nation, One Ration Card' scheme on a pilot basis in four states in 2019. It seeks to ensure hassle-free
MCA Amends One Person Companies Rule
On 3rd February, 2021, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) amends One Person Companies (OPCs) rules vide Companies (Incorporation) Second Amendment Rules, 2021. Key Amendments Now any natural person, who is an Indian citizen, whether resident in India or otherwise would be allowed to form an OPC. For being considered as a
World Pulses Day
World Pulses Day is an international day established by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations to recognize the importance of pulses (dry beans, lentils, dry peas, chickpeas, lupins) as a global food. It has been designated on February 10 each year since 2019 by the seventy-third session
Budget Propose to Privatize Two Banks
The Union Budget 2021 has announced the privatisation of two public sector banks and one general insurance company in the upcoming fiscal 2021-22. The two banks that will be privatised will be selected through a process in which NITI Aayog will make recommendations, which will be considered by a core group
News Snippets
Participatory Notes Participatory Notes or P-Notes (PNs) are financial instruments issued by a registered foreign institutional investor (FII) to an overseas investor who wishes to invest in Indian stock markets without registering themselves with the market regulator, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI).
In Focus
Report of Fifteen Finance Commission
The final report of the Fifteenth Finance Commission of India for FY 2021-22 to FY 2025-26 was tabled in the Parliament on 1st February, 2021 alongside the Union Budget 2021-22. The 15th Finance Commission was constituted by the President of India in November 2017, under the chairmanship of NK Singh. Its
Legislative
DNA Technology Regulation Bill
Recently, the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Science and Technology, Environment, Forests and Climate Change has recommended that the government assuage concerns raised over the DNA Technology (Use and Application) Regulation Bill, 2019, including over creation of a national databank of crime scene DNA profiles and fears of communities being targeted. The
Unrecognised Parties Doubled in 10 Years
According to a report by Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR), the number of registered unrecognised political parties has increased two-fold from 2010 to 2019. Newly registered political parties or those which have not secured enough percentage of votes in the assembly or general elections to become a state party, or those
Executive
Cabinet Approves Changes in Juvenile Justice Act
The Union Cabinet recently approved amendments to the juvenile justice law to increase the scrutiny of child care institutions and enhance the role of district magistrates to ensure the set-up works in the best interests of children. Key Changes The district magistrates (DMs) along with additional district magistrates (ADMs) will monitor the
Prevention of Insults to National Honour
Recently, UP Police has invoked provisions of the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971 and booked relatives of a deceased protesting farmer draping the body of the deceased in a tricolour. Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971 It aims to prevent Insults to National Honour i.e., Indian National
Karnataka: Explosion of Quota Demands
Recently, the Karnataka government has been besieged by demands from different caste groups, asking to be included among beneficiaries of job and education quotas in various categories, or to be placed in a category different from where they are currently. Despite an upper limit of 50 per cent reservations for all
CIC Ruling on Lokpal
Recently, Central Information Commission (CIC) has refused to allow disclosure of minutes of selection committee meetings to choose the chairperson and members of anti-graft body Lokpal. CIC Ruling The CIC has upheld the withholding of information and refused access to minutes of the meeting of the Selection Committee. The CIC relied on the
President’s Rule in Puducherry
Recently, President’s Rule was imposed in Puducherry following a recommendation by the Union Cabinet after a Congress-led government lost power in the Union Territory in a vote of confidence. The decision was taken after the president received a report from the administrator of the Union Territory of Puducherry on 22nd February
Judiciary
Supreme Court Upholds Right to Choose Life Partner
In a case of an inter-caste marriage from Karnataka; the Supreme Court on 8th February, underscored the right of the adults to choose their life partner. Highlights of the Verdict The Supreme Court bench upheld the right of adults to choose a life partner and added that it is time society learns
Social Issues
EdTech Entities for Online Lessons
Recently, the education ministry and the All-India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) roped in 48 EdTech firms to boost online education for students and executives and offer tech solutions to institutions. Highlights Educational technology is the combined use of computer hardware, software, and educational theory and practice to facilitate learning. When referred
Nurturing Neighbourhoods Challenge
Recently, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has shortlisted 25 cities for the ‘Nurturing Neighbourhoods Challenge’. This challenge is covered under the Smart Cities Mission. Nurturing Neighbourhoods Challenge It is a three-year initiative hosted by the Smart Cities Mission, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, in collaboration with the Bernard van
Survey to Address Data Gap on Migrant Workers
On 18th February 2021, the government launched five pan-India surveys on migrant and domestic workers, employment generated by professionals and in the transport sector apart from quarterly establishment-based employment survey to plug the data gap on migrant Labours. The lack of data on workers, which was evident during the COVID-19-induced lockdown
Art And Culture
Chauri Chaura Episode: Centenary Year
On 4th February 2021, Prime Minister inaugurated the Chauri Chaura Centenary Celebrations and released a postage stamp to mark the centenary of the event. The UP government has planned a year of celebrations through 4th February 2022, in all 75 districts of the state. Chauri Chaura — whose name derives from
Dayananda Saraswati
12th February is the birth anniversary of Swami Dayanand Saraswati, the founder of Arya Samaj. Dayanand Saraswati Swami Dayanand Saraswati was born on February 12, 1824 at Tankara, Gujarat as Mool Shankar. He was a religious leader and social reformer who left a deep impression on India. He spoke out against following
Khawaja Moinuddin Chishti
Recently, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani sent a 'chadar' through Afghan embassy in India, for the shrine of renowned Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti in Ajmer. Along with-it Indian Prime Minister also handed over a 'chadar' that will be offered on his behalf at the shrine Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti. Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti Khwaja
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National Urban Digital Mission (NUDM) The National Urban Digital Mission (NUDM) has been launched by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs along with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology. Features The National Urban Digital Mission (NUDM) will create a shared digital infrastructure for urban India, working across the three pillars of
News Snippets
In Focus
New Guidelines For Digital Media
On 25th February 2021, citing instructions from the Supreme Court and the concerns raised in the Parliament about social media abuse, the government has released guidelines that aim to regulate social media, digital news media, and over-the-top (OTT) content providers. For social media platforms, the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital
Draft National Strategy on Blockchain
Recently, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has prepared a draft framework for the use of blockchain technology in government services. It intends to use it in the areas of property record keeping, digital certificates, power distribution, health records as well as supply chain management. Salient Features All the applications
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US Department of Defense to Create China Task Force The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) has come out with details about a new China Task Force that would inform the Pentagon’s strategic approach towards that country. It will provide a baseline assessment of department policies, programs and processes in regard to
World Issues
Switzerland’s Policy of Neutrality
(Swiss Neutrality) has become attractive again because of the changing political reality in the world. Swiss Neutrality Swiss neutrality is one of the main principles of Switzerland’s foreign policy which dictates that Switzerland is not to be involved in armed or political conflicts between other states. This policy is self-imposed, permanent, and armed,
South China Sea Dispute
Recently, China warned off a USA warship sailing near contested Paracel islands in the South China Sea (SCS). South China Sea Dispute Territorial disputes in the South China Sea involve both island and maritime claims among several sovereign states within the region, namely Brunei, the People's Republic of China, Malaysia, the Philippines,
A New Immunity Passport
In a bid to ease travel restrictions amid the coronavirus pandemic, countries like Denmark, Estonia, Israel, Chile, UK have announced a new Immunity Passport. It is to be noted that immunity passport is not a new concept and people have been travelling with 'yellow card' to countries that require vaccinations against
Nord Stream 2 Pipeline
In a development that could ratchet up tensions between the United States and Germany, Russia resumed work on the controversial Nord Stream 2 Pipeline. It is a 1,200km-long offshore natural gas pipeline being constructed from Russia to Germany across the Baltic Sea. The pipeline will run along with the already-completed Nord Stream
India And Its Bilateral Relations
Sri Lanka Pushed India Out of East Terminal Project
On 3rd February, 2021, the Sri Lankan government revoked a 2019 agreement with India and Japan to develop the strategic East Container Terminal (ECT) at the Colombo Port. Background Sri Lanka, Japan and India signed an agreement to jointly develop the East Container Terminal at the Colombo Port in 2019. The MoC stated
Comprehensive Economic cooperation and Partnership Agreement between India and Mauritius
On 17th February, 2021, the Union Cabinet approved signing of the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement (CECPA) between India and Mauritius. It is the first trade agreement signed by India with any country of Africa. Key Points The Agreement is a limited agreement, which will cover Trade in Goods, Rules of Origin,
First India-EU High-Level Dialogue on Trade & Investment
The 1st High-Level Dialogue (HLD), co-chaired by the Union Minister of Commerce and Industry and the European Union (EU) Executive Vice-President & Trade Commissioner was on 6th February, 2021. The decision to establish the High-Level Dialogue had been taken by both Partners during the 15th EU-India Summit held in July 2020. Key
International Organisations
US Seeks to Rejoin UN Human Right Council
On 7th February, 2021, the newly elected Biden administration announced its intention to rejoin U.N. Human Rights Council (UNHRC) that former President Donald Trump withdrew from in 2018. The Trump administration accused the Council of beingbiased against Israel and had members who were human rights abusers. Human Rights Council Based in Geneva
International Criminal Court
Recently, the International Criminal Court convicted a former commander (Dominic Ongwen) in the notorious Ugandan rebel group the Lord’s Resistance Army of dozens of war crimes and crimes against humanity ranging from multiple murders to forced marriages. International Criminal Court (ICC) Located in The Hague (Netherland), ICC is the court of last
Indian Ocean Region: Defence Minister’s Conclave
On 4th February, 2021, India hosted the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) Defence Ministers’ Conclave under the theme- Enhanced Peace, Security and Cooperation in the Indian Ocean. Key Points India hosted Indian Ocean Region (IOR) Defence Ministers’ Conclave on the side-lines of Aero India 2021. 26 out of 28 countries from the IOR
Appointment of New WTO Chief
On 15th February, 2021, Nigeria’s Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has been appointed the new chief of the World Trade Organization (WTO), becoming the first woman to ever lead the institution and the first African citizen to take on the role. She is the seventh Director-General of the WTO. She will hold the position
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Lalandar Dam
Recently, India and Afghanistan have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the construction of the Lalandar (Shahtoot) Dam in Afghanistan. Shahtoot Dam is a proposed dam in the Kabul river basin, one of the five river basins in Afghanistan. This project will provide drinking, and irrigation water to Kabul province. Shahtoot dam
India - Australia Circular Economy Hackathon
On 11th February, 2021, Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) and Australia’s national science agency (CSIRO) kick started the India-Australia Circular Economy (I-ACE) Hackathon, 2021. It seeks to enable talented innovative students and start-ups from Australia and India to address common national issues through innovative technology solutions. It also aims to further strengthen
Pakistan to Remain on FATF Grey List
Recently, global terror watchdog Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has announced that Pakistan will continue to remain on its grey list due to failure to comply with all the points of a plan of action set by it to combat terror financing. Pakistan was placed on the ‘grey’ list in June
UNHRC Resolution on Sri Lanka
On 24th February, 2021, a “Core Group on Sri Lanka” presented a resolution to the ongoing UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) meeting in Geneva. The Core Group includes the UK, Canada, Germany, North Macedonia, Montenegro, and Malawi. Although US is not a member of the group, it was behind the resolution,
Transatlantic Alliance
Recently, the USA President Joe Biden in his first address to the annual Munich Security Conference declared that the 'transatlantic alliance is back' and stressed the need to defend democracy around the world. The Munich Security Conference is an annual conference on international security policy that has taken place in
News Snippets
News Snippets
Extinction Rebellion (XR) Delhi Police have named environmental activists Disha Ravi, Nikita Jacob, and Shantanu Muluk, who are volunteers of a global environment movement seeking to call attention to the climate change emergency, in the Greta Thunberg ‘toolkit’ case. It brought XR rebellion in the
In Focus
Military Coup in Myanmar
On 1st February, 2021, Myanmar military staged a coup and dismissed the democratically elected Daw Aung San Suu Kyi’s National League for Democracy (NLD) government over allegations of rigged elections. This is the third coup in the nation’s history since its independence from British rule in 1948. Background The 2021 coup occurred in
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Isro's First Mission of 2021 The Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) launched 19 satellites, including Brazil’s Amazonia-1, into space in what was the first lift-off of the year for the space agency. The first launch of 2021 took place on the day (28 February, National Science Day) when Sir CV Raman
Astronomy
Stardust 1.0: Rocket to Run on Biofuel
On January 31, Stardust 1.0 was launched in Maine, US, and became the first commercial space launch powered by biofuel, which is non-toxic for the environment as opposed to traditionally used rocket fuels. It carried three payloads: a cubesat prototype built by high school students, a metal alloy designed to lessen
Neutrinos and Death of Massive Stars
Recently, researchers from IIT Guwahati have come up with new insights into the part played by neutrinos in the dramatic death of massive stars i.e., Type II supernovas. Key Finding They have suggested that two-type neutrino oscillation models are inadequate to study Type II supernova and they should be replaced by a
Square Kilometre Array Observatory Project
On 4th February 2021, a global collaboration for the world’s largest radio telescope took formal shape with the constitution of an Intergovernmental Council. With the ratification of the UK, the last of the host countries, the Square Kilometre Array Observatory (SKAO) Council came into existence. The SKA project is an international
Space Organisations
Hope: UAE Mars Mission
On 9th February 2021, the UAE has become the fifth country after the US, Russia, China, the EU, and India, to reach the Martian orbit when its first mission to Mars (Al-Amal or Hope Probe) entered the orbit of the red planet. It took seven months after the Emirati-built ‘Hope Probe’
Tianwen-1: Chinese Mars Mission
On 10 February 2021, China’s Tianwen-1 mission successfully entered the orbit of Mars, making it the first time for a Chinese mission to be able to successfully make a journey to another planet. China launched Tianwen-1 along with the UAE’s Hope mission and NASA’s Perseverance rover mission in July. All three
NASA’s Perseverance Mission
On 18th February 2021, NASA's Mars 2020 Perseverance Rover touched down on the Martian surface. Perseverance is the most advanced, most expensive and most sophisticated mobile laboratory sent to Mars. The results of the experiments on Perseverance will likely define the next couple of decades of Mars exploration. Mars 2020 Mission The
Basic Sciences
Alcohol Abuse and DNA Change: NIMHANS Study
A recent study by NIMHANS (National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro-Sciences) has revealed that excessive alcohol consumption can cause irreversible changes to the DNA. Key Findings It is common knowledge that excessive alcohol consumption is bad for health. But the assumption that all the damage can be set right after a
New Lead (Pb) Free Material
Scientists from Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR), Bengaluru, led by Prof. Kanishka Biswas have now identified a lead-free material called Cadmium (Cd) doped Silver Antimony Telluride (AgSbTe2) which can efficiently allow recovery of electricity from ‘waste heat’.It can efficiently convert waste heat to power our small home
Technology
Splinternet
Recent ongoing row between the government and Twitter may be nearing its end with the social media giant reportedly complying with the government’s directive on blocking nearly 1,500 accounts but it has brought the term splinternet at the centre of discussion. Splinternet is derived from the fusion of the words “split”
ISRO, MapmyIndia Join Hands to Take on Google Maps/Earth
Indian Space Research Organisation and location and navigation technology solutions provider MapmyIndia announced an initiative to partner together to offer India’s best, and fully indigenous, mapping portal and geospatial services. Highlights It combines the power of MapmyIndia’s digital maps and technologies with ISRO’s catalogue of satellite imagery and earth observation data. The Department
New Initiatives
Vigyan Jyoti Scheme: 2nd Phase
On 11th February2021, the second phase of Vigyan Jyoti programme was launched on the occasion of International Day of Women and Girls in Science. It will spread the programme for encouraging girls to take interest in science and build a career in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) to 50 more
Defence
Aatmanirbhar Defence Sector
On 22nd February 2021, while speaking on the budget allocation for India’s defence sector, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for ‘Aatmanirbhar’ in the defence sector and the need to focus on exports in the sector. He also pitched about the untapped potential of India’s manufacturing for military equipment and
Software Defined Radios
Recently, Indian Army has said that it seeks to revamp its communication systems by procuring Very/Ultra High Frequency (V/UHF) Manpack Software Defined Radios (SDRs), under Make-II category. The contract will be placed with one of the firms post successful development of prototype as per provisions of Buy Indian-IDDM category of DAP
Arjun Mark 1A Tanks
On 14th February 2021, Indian Prime Minister has handed over the first Arjun Mark 1A tanks, a much-upgraded version of the indigenously-developed Arjun main battle tank (MBT), to the Indian Army. The army will get 118 units of the Main Battle Tank, indigenously designed, developed and manufactured by CVRDE and DRDO
Helina and Dhruvastra
Recently, Helina (Helicopter based NAG), a key homemade anti-tank guided missile, has completed its user trials with the armed forces and is ready for induction. It is a third generationfire and forget class anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) system mounted on the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH). The system has all weather day
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Concentration of Small Black Holes
Recently, astronomers, using Hubble Telescope, have discovered a concentration of smaller black holes, instead of one massive black hole, lurking at the heart of the globular cluster NGC 6397. Globular clusters are extremely dense stellar systems, which host stars that are closely packed together. These systems are also typically very
Comet Killed the Dinosaurs: Study
According to a study, Harvard researchers have found that dinosaurs might have been killed off by a comet instead of an asteroid. A Comet is a celestial object that consists of a nucleus of ice and dust. It originated from a group of icy objects located on the edge of
Ease of Doing Science Index
Recently, the government has said that it is preparing a new “Ease of Doing Science Index” to coordinate high-impact research funding in a bid to promote scientific research on a par with global standards. It seeks to ensure effective use of both disbursed funds and the time to weed out
Lithium Deposits Inferred in Mandaya
Recent preliminary surveys on surface and limited subsurface by Atomic Minerals Directorate for Exploration and Research (AMD), a constituent unit of Department of Atomic Energy have shown presence of Lithium resources of 1,600 tonnes (inferred category) in the pegmatites of Marlagalla – Allapatna area, of Mandya district, Karnataka. The thermonuclear application
FSSAI GMO Threshold
Recently, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has decided to go ahead with labelling packaged food products with over one per cent of Genetically Modified ingredients. The scientific committee of the FSSAI has prescribed labelling of GM food items for manufacture, sale and distribution in India with
ISRO Tests Satellite of Private Sector
Recently, ISRO, for the very first time in its history, has opened up its facilities for private sector. Until now, ISRO had only taken help in manufacturing and fabrication of various parts of satellites and rockets from the private sector. It has permitted two satellites from Indian startups—SpaceKidz India and
Sandes: India’s New Instant Messaging Platform
Recently, the National Informatics Centre has launched an instant messaging platform called Sandes on the lines of WhatsApp. Like WhatsApp, the new NIC platform can be used for all kinds of communications by anyone with a mobile number or email id. During the COVID-19 lockdown,after facing some security scares, the government
Fossil of Dickinsonia
Recently, researchers have discovered the fossil of the world’s oldest animal in India. Highlights Dickinsonia, one of the rarest fossils in the world, has been discovered in Bhimbetka rock shelters in Madhya Pradesh about 40 km from Bhopal. Dickinsonia is an extinct genus of a basal animal that lived during the late Ediacaran
DIU and TAFCOP
Recently, amidst rising instances of financial frauds and unsolicited messages, the government announced to set up a nodal agency, ‘Digital Intelligence Unit’ (DIU), for speedy investigation and resolution of such financial fraud cases and to make digital transactions more secure and reliable. The main function of DIU will be to
News Snippets
News Snippets
Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000 Under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000, the government can order a digital intermediary to block any content on grounds including security of the state and public order. The Supreme Court upheld the constitutionality of
In Focus
Liberalized Rules on Geospatial Data
India on 15th February liberalized regulations on geospatial data and maps to achieve a $5 trillion economy and the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat or self-reliant India. The government aims to make the geospatial data and modern mapping technologies available to Indian companies. The update represents a major change in the country’s
PIB CORNER
PIB Corner
Arka Shubha Arka Shubha is a new variety of marigold developed by the Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR), Bengaluru with highest carotene (mainly used in pharmaceutical sector) content from plant source and could be used for ornamental purpose as well in poultry sector (petals could be used as poultry feed
Climate Change
U.S. Formally Rejoins Paris Climate Agreement
The U.S., under new President Joe Biden, has officially rejoined the Paris climate change agreement on February 19, 2021. This puts environmental policy at the centre of his agenda and prepares to work with world leaders to cut global greenhouse gas emissions. It would be 107 days after US’s withdrawal under the
Western Disturbance and Indian Climate
There are several studies conducted by various scientific institutes in the country with regard to the impact of western disturbances during winter season on Indian climate. Key Findings The studies show that: 30% of annual precipitation over North West Indian region (J & K, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh &Uttarakhand) is received during winter and
Exceptional Warming of Peninsular India: IMD report
A recent report of IMD on weather patterns shows that Peninsular India has recorded the warmest January in 121 years with a mean temperature of 22.33 degrees Celsius. The country also experienced the warmest January in 62 years. According to the report Peninsular India has also recorded unusually high rainfall in
Sustainable Development
CWCM: First dedicated Wetland Conservation and Management Centre
On 2nd February 2021 the Union government has announced on the occasion of the World Wetland Day and as a part of its commitment towards conservation, restoration and management of India’s wetlands, the establishment of Centre for Wetland Conservation and Management (CWCM). It has been set up under the Ministry of
GOBAR DHAN Scheme
On 3rd February 2021, the Ministry of Jal Shakti has launched a unified portal on the government’s GOBAR (Galvanizing Organic Bio-Agro Resources) - DHAN scheme, which aims to effectively manage cattle and biodegradable waste in rural areas across the country. The new portal will give information related to the scheme and
UNEP Making Peace with Nature Report
Recently, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has released the ‘Making Peace with Nature’ report, ahead of the fifth session of the UN Environment Assembly (UNEA-5). The assembly will be held February 22-23, 2021 on the theme ‘Strengthening Actions for Nature to Achieve the Sustainable Development Goals’. It calls for strengthened action
Flora And Fauna
World’s Smallest Reptile Found in Madagascar
Scientists believe they may have discovered the smallest reptile on earth—a chameleon subspecies that is the size of a seed. Two of the tiny lizards were discovered by a German-Madagascan expedition team in Madagascar. Key Features The male Brookesia nana, or nano-chameleon, has a body of just 13.5mm. This makes it the
Nutrition Garden Inaugurated in Himachal Pradesh
On 7th February, the Chief minister of Himachal Pradesh inaugurated a nutrition garden at the Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University at Palampur. Key Features The garden is spread over an area of 3,250 square meters and saplings of apple, peach, plum, apricot, pomegranate and persimmon will be planted this winter.
Decline in Species Abundance Due to Trade
According to a recent study published in the journal Nature Ecology and Evolution, contemporary International wildlife trade is causing declines of over 60% in the abundance of species on the planet, and scientists call for more research on the impacts of this severe threat across the world. Key Findings The scientists found
News Bytes
World Sustainable Development Summit 2021
From 10th to 12th February 2021, the World Sustainable Development Summit (WSDS) 2021 was held on the theme- 'Redefining our Common Future: Safe and Secure Environment for All.' The World Sustainable Development Summit (WSDS) is the annual flagship event of The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI). Instituted in 2001, the
Vembanad Lake
In his Mann Ki Baat programme, Prime Minister hailed the commitment of N.S. Rajappan, a differently abled man from Kottayam, towards cleaning up Vembanad Lake by collecting plastic bottles floating on the lake and the streams linked to it. Vembanad Lake is also known as Vembanad Kayal, Vembanad Kol, Punnamada
Cremanthodium indicum: New Alpine Plant
Recently, a new species of alpine plant in Arunachal Pradesh’s Tawang district has been discovered. It belongs to the Himalayan sunflower family. It is named as Cremanthodium indicum, and the plant species which generally flowers from July to August, is endemic to Penga-Teng Tso Lake of Tawang district, Arunachal Pradesh. It is
Karlapat Wildlife Sanctuary
Recently, six elephants died in just 14 days at Karlapat Wildlife Sanctuary in Odisha’s Kalahandi district, and the government has asked the authorities to take immediate measures to stop the fatalities. Expressing concern over the series of pachyderm deaths, the government has also directed the departments of Forest and Environment and
Mandarin Duck and Black-necked Crane
Recently, a beautiful Mandarin duck was spotted at Maguri-Motapung beel (wetland) in Tinsukia district, Assam after a century. It was a historic moment, as the bird has shown up after 120 years at the same location. It was last spotted at Dibru river in Tinsukia in 1902. Naturalists suspect that climate
Chittaura Lake
On 16th February 2021, Prime Minister laid the foundation stone of Maharaja Suheldev Memorial and development work of Chittaura Lake to promote tourism and the history of Suheldev and the battle of Bahraich. The event in Bahraich, Uttar Pradesh marks the birth anniversary of Maharaja Suheldev. The complete project will
Uttarakhand Disaster
On 7th February 2021, a massive flood has been reported from Uttarakhand's Chamoli district, where the water level in Alaknanda and Dhauliganga rivers suddenly rose, following an avalanche near Rishiganga Power Project at Raini village. Some scientists believe that the flood was triggered by a glacial lake outburst in India’s second-highest
News Snippets
In Focus
Sustainable Development of Little Andaman Island
Recently NITI Aayog has released a plan for the sustainable and holistic development of the Little Andaman Island in the Andaman and Nicobar group. The ‘Sustainable Development of Little Andaman Island – Vision Document’, is the NITI Aayog’s proposal to leverage the strategic location and natural features of the Little Andaman
News Notes
Newsmakers
Alok Sharma Alok Sharma is a British MP and President-designate of the 26th UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP-26), which is scheduled to be held at Glasgow, UK in November 2021. Yoshiro Mori Yoshiro Mori, the head of the Tokyo Olympics 2020, a former Prime Minister, who drew criticism over sexist
On the Hot Seat
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala Nigerian economist Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has assumed office as the 7th Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO). She is the first woman as well as the first African national to lead the organization. Ligia Noronha Indian economist Ligia Noronha has been appointed as Assistant Secretary-General of UN and Head of the New
Faces Only in Memory
Major General BK Mahapatra Retired Major General Basant Kumar Mahapatra, who had participated in four major wars including Goa Liberation and Indo-China war, passed away. During his 40 years of career in Defence he had taken part in 1961 Goa Liberation, 1962 Indo-China war, 1965 fierce Patton Tank battle in Khemkaran of
States in News
‘REWARD’ Project The Govt. of Odisha has approved the proposal for implementation of the ‘Rejuvenating Watersheds for Agricultural Resilience through Innovative Development (REWARD)’ project to ensure efficient water management & enhanced cropping area. Uttar Pradesh Uttar Pradesh has introduced a system of issuing a unique 16-digit Unicode to mark all kinds of
Places in News
Vijayanagara Vijayanagara became the 31st district of Karnataka on 8th February, 2021 which was carved out of Ballari district. Bihar In a first for an Indian State, Bihar has signed a memorandum of understanding with the UN Environment Programme to achieve climate resilience and low carbon development by 2040. Bajali A major Bamboo Agarbatti Stick
Organisations in News
Skyroot Aerospace Skyroot Aerospace, a startup founded by former scientists of ISRO has signed a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) with ISRO on behalf of Department of Space (DoS), through which it can use the facilities & technical expertise in ISRO centers for development of their Launch Vehicle Development
History/Art/Culture/Heritage
Initiatives to Honour ‘Netaji’ To honour Subhash Chandra Bose on his 125th anniversary, the West Bengal Govt. has announced to form a Netaji Battallion, Netaji State Planning Commission, and in all districts a Jay Hind Bhawan. Earlier, the Central Government has declared Netaji’s birth day to be observed as ‘Parakram Diwas’ and
Defence
INS Karanj: Indian Navy gets Third Scorpene Submarine The Indian Navy got its third Scorpene submarine, which will be commissioned as INS Karanj, of Project P-75. Earlier, Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited, MDL, has delivered two Scorpene submarines named Khanderi, Kalvari. The fourth submarine, Vela, launched on May 6 2019, has commenced sea trials,
World of Awards
Asia Environmental Enforcement Award-2020 The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB), a statutory body established by the Government of India under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change to combat organised wildlife crimehas received the Asia Environmental Enforcement Award-2020 awarded by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). International Anti-corruption Champions Award Right to
World of Sports
Narendra Modi Stadium President Ram Nath Kovind laid the foundation stone of the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave, an ambitious project to come up over an area of 215 acres along the Sabarmati riverfront at Motera in Ahmedabad and digitally inaugurated the newly revamped Motera cricket stadium in Ahmedabad, which has
Prelims Specials
Indian Economy - Sectors of Economy (Class Notes Special-3)
Agriculture : Primary Sector of Indian Economy Primary sector makes direct use of natural resources. The primary sector is an economic description, concerned with the extraction of raw materials. This sector includes agriculture, forestry, animal husbandry, fishing, mining etc. The well being of other sectors depends upon the wellbeing of primary
Indian Economy - GDP and Inflation (Class Notes Special-3)
Gross Domestic Product (GDP) Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is the total money value of final goods and services produced in the economic territories of a country in a given year. GDP stands for the total value of goods and services produced inside the territory of India irrespective of whom produced it –
Indian Economy - Poverty, Inclusive Growth and Human Resource Development (Class Notes Special-3)
Poverty As per UN, “Fundamentally, poverty is a denial of choices and opportunities, a violation of human dignity.”For example, it means lack of basic capacity to participate effectively in society,it means not having enough to feed and clothe a family, not having a school or clinic to go to, not having
Indian Economy - Fiscal Policy (Class Notes Special-3)
Revenue and Taxation Objectives Economic Development:One of the important objectives of taxation is economic development. Economic development of any country is largely conditioned by the growth of capital formation as capital formation is the kingpin of economic development. Full Employment: Since the level of employment depends on effective demand, a country desirous of
Indian Economy - Banking and Finance (Class Notes Special-3)
Banking Objectives of Banking Safeguard Deposits: Bank serves the main purpose of accepting deposits from public and safeguarding it. It guarantees the safety of funds to customers for depositing their money in their accounts. Provide Loans: It advances loan to customers at both short-term and long-term basis as per their needs. Bank provides
Indian Economy - Government Debt (Class Notes Special-3)
Objectives of Government Debt The main objective of public debt management is to ensure that the government's financing needs and its payment obligations are met at the lowest possible cost over the medium to long run, consistent with a prudent degree of risk. Security Market in India 1.Commodity Indices A commodity index is an
Indian Economy - Budget(Class Notes Special-3)
Budget Article 112 of the constitution defines budget as ‘Annual Financial Statement’ of State. A government budget is a year-long country’s financial report explaining item-wise calculations of future revenue and expenditure. Objective of Budget Reallocation of Resources – It helps to distribute resources keeping in view the social and economic advantages of the
Indian Economy - Infrastructure(Class Notes Special-3)
Infrastructure in India Infrastructure sector is a key driver for the Indian economy. The sector is highly responsible for propelling India’s overall development and enjoys intense focus from Government for initiating policies that would ensure time-bound creation of world class infrastructure in the country. Need To Improve Connectivity: In the coming decade,
Indian Economy - Indian Trade (Class Notes Special-3)
India has emerged as the fastest growing major economy in the world and is expected to be one of the top three economic powers in the world over the next 10-15 years, backed by its robust democracy and strong partnerships. Domestic Trade India’s GDP (at constant 2011-12 prices) was estimated at Rs.
