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(GIST OF YOJANA) Less Cash India: Vision to Reality

[JULY-2019]

Less Cash India: Vision to Reality

Introduction

•  India has traditionally been a cash-based society. This dominance of cash has been primarily due to three reasons -

1. Lack of payment acceptance infrastructure
2. Bank accounts perceived as accounts for savings rather than accounts for payments by a majority of the population.
3. Cash-based payments seem to be zero- cost and hassle-free as cost of cash is distributed and invisible.

Background

•  Till November 2016, only 15 lakh merchants had been enabled with PoS by over 40 banks. This meant that only 2.5 per cent of India’s 6 crore merchants had an option of receiving payments through cards. The remaining merchants had no option but to rely on cash based payments.
•  This changed dramatically with the advent of QR code based payments.
•  Today, there are over 1.2 crore merchants having QR code who give an option to their customers to pay through their wallet or bank account.
•  The QR code based payments have been attractive to merchants as it does not have traditional costs associated with PoS terminals cost of PoS terminal, cost of maintaining internet, maintenance of PoS terminal, high MDR etc.

Uprising of the digital payment system in India

•  India has over 100 crore bank accounts with over 90 crore debit cards. While most households have
•  atleast one bank account, especially after Jan Dhan Mission, the number of customers using bank accounts for digital payments is less than 5 crore. Many people find payment through bank accounts cumbersome and/or risky.
•  Prepaid Instruments (wallets) became a huge hit among these customers as customers could set up wallets easily by authenticating their mobile number.
•  The perceived risk is capped to the amount kept in the wallet, which is separate from their bank account.
•  The number of wallet users has been increasing consistently despite new regulations mandating the need of KYC in a given time frame.
•  The advent of UPI has simplified use of bank accounts for payments for people who are comfortable to pay directly from their bank accounts.
•  Overall, wallets and UPI have been leading the growth of digital payments in addition to traditional modes like net banking, debit card and credit card.
  Improving infrastructure
•  Cash has an inherent benefit of being universally accepted and instantly usable. However, there is a cost of cash in the form of expensive cash management infrastructure.

UPSC Pre General Studies Study Material

•  Cash management infrastructure includes cost of printing cash, bill collection centres for utilities, network of ATMs and cash deposit machines, cash in/cash out counters in banks etc.
•  Transitioning to digital payments will lead to significant reduction in costs due to inefficiencies associated with cash. Further, cash is anonymous and once you have parted with it, there is no trace visible in the system. Contrast this with digital payments, which leaves a footprint across the ecosystem and is traceable. With regard to security of digital transactions, there are 2 aspects - one is the technology aspect and the other is financial literacy of users.
•  With emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning it has become safer to do digital payments. At the same time, technology is evolving so that any patterns for hacking/cyber-crime are quickly understood and preventive measures taken in order to prevent spreading of such crimes.
•  With regard to financial literacy, the Indian Government has undertaken several campaigns in this regard. Users are being made aware about maintaining the security of their hank accounts, keeping strong passwords which are difficult to guess, not sharing one time passwords (OTP) etc.
•  The Indian Government should encourage innovation in digital payments. There should be a push for increasing digital payments acceptance infrastructure - and not for any particular mode of doing the same.
•  The entities in the digital payments space should be given freedom to enable merchants to accept digital payments in whatever way they deem fit be it wallet, UPI or any other new innovation which can scale up the number of merchants accepting digital payments even further.

Way forward

•  The key to propagating digital payments is to ensure trust in the system - both from the customer as well as the merchant.
•  Trust can be built by ensuring transparency of cost and charges for digital payments along with timely grievance redressal, along with customer / merchant education and awareness.
•  The banking and financial services industry under the guidance of the Indian Government has taken several measures to build trust and a lot more needs to be done.
•  Certain with constant innovation in technology and increased awareness about digital payments, time is not far when this trust factor truly enables the realization of the vision of less cash India.

Complete Study Material For UPSC, IAS Exams

CS (MAIN) EXAM:2018
हिन्दी ( साहित्य ) (प्रश्न-पत्र-I)
Marks: 250
निर्धारित समय : तीन घण्टे

खण्ड 'A'

Q1. निम्नलिखित प्रत्येक पर लगभग 150 शब्दों में टिप्पणियाँ लिखिए : 10x5=50 marks

1. (a) देवनागरी लिपि की विशेषताएँ 10 marks
(b) हिन्दी भाषा का मान स्वरुप 10 marks
(c) पश्चिमी हिन्दी की प्रमुख बोलियाँ 10 marks
(d) रहीम की काव्य भाषा और उसकी विशेषताएँ 10 marks
(e) संत साहित्य में अवधी का योगदान 10 marks

Q2.(a) विज्ञान और तकनीकी के क्षेत्र में हिन्दी भाषा के प्रयोग की स्थिति का आकलन कीजिए । 20 marks
(b) आरंभिक हिन्दी के विकास में अपभ्रंश की भूमिका को स्पष्ट कीजिए। 15 marks
(c) हिन्दी को राष्ट्रभाषा के रूप में प्रतिष्ठित करने में नागरी प्रचारिणी सभा, काशी और दक्षिण भारत हिन्दी प्रचार सभा, चेन्नई (मद्रास) की भूमिका को मुल्यांकन कीजिए। 15 marks

Q3.(a) पारिभाषिक शब्दावली से आप क्या समझते हैं ? हिन्दी में पारिभाषिक शब्दावली निर्माण के इतिहास का उदाहरण सहित मूल्यांकन कीजिए। 20 marks
(b) खड़ी बोली हिन्दी के साथ उसकी प्रमुख बोलियों के अन्त:संबंध पर प्रकाश डालिए। 15 marks
भारतीय स्वतंत्रता संग्राम की राष्ट्रीय चेतना की मुखर अभिव्यक्ति हिन्दी साहित्य में हुई हैं - सोदाहरण समीक्षा कीजिए । 15 marks

Q4. (a) राजभाषा के रूप में हिन्दी को सर्वस्वीकार्य बनाने के लिए क्या कदम उठाए जाने चाहिए ? सविस्तार उल्लेख कीजिए । 20 marks
(b) दक्खिनी हिन्दी की विशेषताओं का उल्लेख कीजिए । 15 marks
(c) मानक हिन्दी की व्याकरणिक संरचना के स्वरूप पर चर्चा कीजिए । 15 marks

सिविल सेवा मुख्य परीक्षा अध्ययन सामग्री

UPSC GS PRE Cum MAINS (HINDI Combo) Study Kit

BIHAR State GK Questions (Set-9) for BPSC Exam

Q.1 : वास्तुकार महगोविन्द किस शासक के दरबार में था ?

(a) अशोक
(b) शिशुनाग
(c) बिम्बिसार
(d) अजातशत्रु

Q.2 : मगध राज्य में प्रसिद्ध चिकित्सक "जीवक" किसके शासन काल में सुशोभित था ?

(a) जरासंध
(b) बिम्बिसार
(c) बृहद्रथ
(d) अशोक

Q.3 : "प्रथम बौद्ध संगीति" का आयोजन कब हुआ था ?

(a) 315 ई. पू. में
(b) 115 ई. पू. में
(c) 483 ई. पू. में
(d) 227 ई. पू. में

Q.4 : किसके शासन काल में 483 ई. पू. "प्रथम बौद्ध संगीति" का आयोजन हुआ था ?

(a) शिशुनाग
(b) अजातशत्रु
(c) अशोक
(d) कालाशोक

Q.5 : मगध राज्य का प्रारम्भ किसने किया था ?

(a) भगवान बुद्ध ने
(b) अशोक ने
(c) बृहद्रथ ने
(d) बिम्बिसार ने

बिहार लोक सेवा आयोग प्रारम्भिक परीक्षा के लिए अध्ययन सामग्री

Study Kit for Bihar Public Service Commission Preliminary Examination

(Download) CS (MAIN) EXAM:2018 ZOOLOGY(Paper 2)

SECTION ‘A’

Q1.(a) What are Euchromatin and Heterochromatin ? Explain the events of Heterochromatin formation. 10 marks
(b) What are fossils ? Describe the process of fossil formation and give two methods of determining the age of fossils.10 marks
(c) Describe the traditional methods of classification of animals.10 marks
(d) Explain the use of VNTRs in DNA fingerprinting in paternity tests. 10 marks
(e) Explain the origin and functions of lysosomes with emphasis on different enzymes.10 marks

Q2.(a) Describe the role of protein kinases in the regulation of cell cycle. Add a note on the importance of check points. 20 marks
(b) Comment on the following human genetic disorders : 15 marks
(i) Down Syndrome
(ii) Klinefelter's Syndrome
(iii) Sickle Cell Anaemia
(c) With suitable examples, describe how adaptive radiation helps in the evolution of terrestrial and aquatic animal groups. 15 marks

Q3.(a) Describe the structure of plasma membrane according to the fluid mosaie model with emphasis on the role of lipid molecules in maintaining the fluidity of the membrane 20 marks
(b) What are micro, macro and mega evolutions ? Explain the terms with suitable examples. 15 marks
(c) Explain the distinctive features of plasmid and cosmid vectors used in recombinant DNA technology.15 marks

Q4.(a) Define Isolation. Explain in detail the pre-mating and post-mating isolating mechanisms. 20 marks
(b)Explain in detail about the events involved in the transformation of spermatid into sperm. Comment on why you consider these changes as essential 15 marks
(c)Explain the phenomenon of X-linked inheritance in Drosophila.15 marks

SECTION 'B'

Q5.(a) Describe the role of Acetylcholine in neuromuscular transmission. 10 marks
(b) Describe the role of fertilizin and anti-fertilizin interactions during fertilization. 10 marks
(c) Define Muscle twitch and explain the features of Summation and Tetanus. 10 marks
(d) Explain the role of pancreatic enzymes in digestion.10 marks
(e) Who proposed Binomial Nomenclature ? Describe the rules of Zoological Nomenclature.10 marks

Q6.(a) Describe the role of pituitary and gonadal hormones on puberty and regulation of menstrual cycle. 20 marks
(b) Describe the role of visual pigments in daylight and night vision. 15 marks
(c) With particular reference to Gradient theory, describe how polarity is established during embryonic development. Comment on its significance. 15 marks

Q7. (a) Describe in detail about the respiratory chain or electron transport during oxidative phosphorylation in Mitochondria. 20 marks
(b) Give an account of the impact of drugs on teratogenesis. 15 marks
(c) What are fate maps ? Describe the methods of fate maps construction with reference to frog or chick.15 marks

Q8.(a) Describe the role of Calcitonin, Parathormone and Vitamin D, in calcium metabolism. 20 marks
(b) Describe in detail about the structure and function of Nephron and explain fluid balance regulation through Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone systems. 15 marks
(c) Give an account of the morphological and histological types of placenta Add a note on the physiological function of mammalian placenta. 15 marks

(Download) CS (MAIN) EXAM:2018 ZOOLOGY (Paper 1)

SECTION ‘A’

Q1. Write notes on the following in about 150 words each: 10X5=50 marks

(a) Protostomes and Deuterostomes 10 marks
(b) Peripatus 10 marks
(c) Paedomorphosis 10 marks
(d) Status of Sphenodon 10 marks
(e) General characters of Cetaceans and Primates10 marks

Q2.(a) Describe the Integumentary derivatives in Mammals along with labelled diagrams.20 marks
(b) Give an account of the structure and life cycle of Wucheraria bancrofti. Add a note on the pathogenecity and control of the disease caused by this parasite. 15 marks
(c) What is retrogressive metamorphosis ? Give an illustrated account of this phenomenon in Herdmania. Also write a note on its affinities.15 marks

Q3.(a) Describe different larval forms of Echinoderms and comment on their evolutionary significance. 20 marks
(b) Explain HPA axis. Draw a transverse section of the Adrenal gland and descrībe the functions of its different hormones. 15 marks
(c) Give an illustrated account of the life cycle of Plasmodium vivax. 15 marks

Q4.(a) Give an illustrated account of different types of mouth parts in insects and write a note on their functional significance.20 marks
(b) Give an account of Migration in birds. Add a note on the problems faced by them during migration. 15 marks
(c) With the help of labelled diagrams only, explain the structure and different stages of the life cycle of Obelia (no description is required). With reference to Obelia, also explain the polymorphism and the status of metagenesis. 15 marks

SECTION 'B'

Q5. Write notes on the following in about 150 words each: 10x5=50 marks

(a) Ozone layer depletion 10 marks
(b) Population dynamics 10 marks
(c) Endemism with reference to India 10 marks
(d) Habituation and Conditioning 10 marks
(e) PCR 10 marks

Q6.(a) What is ecological succession? Give an account of the causes, types and general process of ecological succession in nature. 20 marks
(b) What is eusocialism ? Describe this phenomenon with reference to Honey Bees.15 marks
(c) What is the systemic position of rice pest ? Give an account of its life cycle and the damage caused by this pest. Write a note on the measure for its prevention and control. 15 marks

Q7.(a) Give an account of sources, impacts and prevention of air pollution. Comment on Montreal and Kyoto protocol also.20 marks
(b) What is "Lac-culture" ? Explain the methodology employed in lac-culture. Also describe the uses of lac. 15 marks
(c) What is resolution of a microscope ? Comment on the principles of SEM and TEM. Describe the structure, working and applications of any one of the electron microscope in biology. 15 marks

Q8.(a) What is biological rhythm? Give an account of its types and characteristics. What is the role of different factors in their entrainment ? 20 marks
(b) What is Chi-square test ? Give a detailed account of the computation of Chi-square for tests of independence, homogeneity and goodness of fit using biological data.15 marks
(c) Describe the structure of the pathogen responsible for AIDS. How it is transmitted ? Also mention the pathogenesis and prevention of AIDS.15 marks

Exam Name: CS (MAIN) EXAM:2018 Psychology (Paper II)
Marks: 250
Time Allowed : Three Hours

SECTION-A

1. Answer the following questions in about 150 words each: 10x5=50 marks

1.(a) Bring out the similarities and differences between intelligence, aptitude, and achievement tests. 10 marks
1.(b) How does stress contribute to the causation of physical illness ? Discuss the role of optimism as factor moderating the impact of stress.10 marks
1.(c) In the context of positive social change differentiate between first-order and second-order change. Why is the second-order change often the focus of community psychology?10 marks
1.(d) What role do cultural factors play in rehabilitation of senior citizens with possible memory and cognitive decline ? Comment on the significance of family and social support in such rehabilitation in India. 10 marks
1.(e) In what specific ways can psychologists work for empowering the communities that have been marginalized by the society? 10 marks

2.(a)Discuss the efficacy of systematic desensitization in reducing clients' phobic reactions. Illustrate your answer with suitable example 15 marks
2.(b) Explain the ctiology of manic-depressive disorder. Evaluate the suitability of therapeutic methods for the treatment of manic-depressive disorder. 15 marks
2.(c) Discuss the different steps in the construction and standardization of psychological tests. Illustrate your answer with suitable example. 20 marks

3.(a) How is giftedness identified and what are the issues in such identification in Indian context ? How is giftedness related to IQ and creativity ? 15 marks
3.(b) Discuss the distinctive aspects of modern psychodynamic therapy. How can it be helpful in the treatment of diverse array of disorders ? 15 marks
3.(c) Can effective teaching-learning be viewed as a process of collaborative construction of knowledge? What are the implications of such a view on classroom structure and management in Indian conditions ? 20 marks

4.(a) Explain the nature of sensitivity training. Comment on its utility as an organizational development technique.15 marks
4.(b) Discuss the role of social and environmental intervention in rehabilitation of the mentally challenged. Why are such interventions crucial in Indian settings? 15 marks
4.(c) Explain Herzberg's theory of work-motivation. Critically comment on its relevance in Indian context.. 20 marks

UPSC Mains General Studies Study Kit

section-B

5. Answer the following questions in about 150 words each: 10x5=50 marks

5.(a) Explain, using psychological framework, the impact of IT and mass media on the work-life in India. 10 marks
5.(b) What psychological factors act as barriers in the context of women's entrepreneurship? How can they be overcome ? 10 marks
5.(c) Discuss the most commonly used techniques or skills psychologists teach to athletes for improving their performance. 10 marks
5.(d) Explain the psychosocial factors demotivating people from small family norms. 10 marks
5.(e) With some examples show how can indigenous knowledge systems be used in management of biodiversity and cultural diversity ? 10 marks

6.(a) How is disadvantage related to a social structure of hierarchy and discrimination ? What is its relationship with capability deprivation and poverty ? 15 marks
6.(b) Discuss the relevance of frustration - aggression hypothesis in the context of caste prejudice in India. 15 marks
6.(c) Discuss some major factors of educational failure among tribal communities in India. Why must education of the disadvantaged emphasise development of selfefficacy and intrinsic motivation ? 20 marks

7.(a) Explain how mass media contribute to acquisition and learning of aggressive and violent behaviour. Examine the relationship between exposure to erotica and aggressiveness. 15 marks
7.(b) Explain the psychosocial consequences of crowding and high population density. Suggest appropriate policies to deal with the related problems in Indian context. 15 marks
7.(c) Critically describe the role of cultural assimilation in facilitating/hindering social integration in India. Illustrate with suitable example. 20 marks

8.(a) Discuss the relationship between sex-role stereotyping, self-fulfilling prophesy and glass ceiling effect in Indian society: 15 marks
8.(b) What role can psychologist play in promoting psychological well being of defence personnel in the context of prolonged deprivational and stressful condition? 15 marks
8.(c) Explain the interrelationship among achievement motivation, entreprenurial behaviour and economic development. Discuss critically as to whether achievement motivation can be enhanced through training. Cite relevant Indian studies. 20 marks

DOWNLOAD 10 YEARS UPSC MAINS PSYCHOLOGY OPTIONAL PAPERS PDF

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DOWNLOAD UPSC MAINS G.S. 10 Year PAPERS PDF

DOWNLOAD UPSC PRE G.S. 10 Year PAPERS PDF

BIHAR State GK Questions (Set-8) for BPSC Exam

Q.1: बिहार के किस शहर में पहला दूरदर्शन केन्द्र स्थापित हुआ था ?

(a) पटना
(b) मुजफ्फरपुर
(c) सहरसा
(d) भागलपुर

Q.2: बिहार में सर्वप्रथम किस बैंक की स्थापना हुई थी ?

(a) बैंक ऑफ बड़ौदा
(b) केनरा बैंक
(c) इलाहाबाद बैंक
(d) पंजाब नेशनल बैंक

Q.3: बिहार में प्रथम निर्दलीय मुख्यमंत्री कौन चुना गया था ?

(a) अब्दुल गफूर
(b)महामाया प्रसाद सिन्हा
(c) श्री कृष्ण सिंह
(d) डॉ. जाकिर हुसैन

Q.4: बिहार में सबसे बड़ा भूकम्प किस वर्ष आया था ?

(a) 1950 ई.
(b) 1928 ई.
(c) 1934 ई.
(d) 1942 ई.

Q.5: बिहार में सबसे पहले किस स्थान से नवपाषाणयुगीन अवशेष प्राप्त हुए है ?

(a) बोधगया
(b) चिरांद
(c) गोलघर
(d) पूर्णिया

बिहार लोक सेवा आयोग प्रारम्भिक परीक्षा के लिए अध्ययन सामग्री

Study Kit for Bihar Public Service Commission Preliminary Examination

Exam Name: CS (MAIN) EXAM:2018  POLITICAL SCIENCE AND INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS  (Paper I)
Marks: 250
Time Allowed : Three Hours

SECTION-A

Q1. Answer the following questions in about 150 words each: 10x5=50 marks

(a) Describe the changing nature of Comparative Politics. Briefly explain the Political Economy approach to the study of Comparative Politics. 10 marks
(b) Describe the changing nature of the State in the developing societies in the context of inclusive growth in the 21st century.10 marks
(c) How big a role does identity play in determining political participation in the developing countries ? Discuss your answer with suitable illustrations. 10 marks
(d) Bring out the major differences between the Classical Realism of Hans Morgenthau and the Neorealism of Kenneth Waltz. 10 marks
(e) What, according to Joseph Nye, are the major sources of a country's soft power? Discuss its relevance in the contemporary world politics. 10 marks

Q2.(a) Discuss the significance of Non-Aligned Movement as a unique contribution of the Non-Western world to World Politics. 20 marks
(b) Discuss the consequences of Trump's "America First" and Xi's "Chinese Dream" on World Politics. 15 marks
(c) "Some feel Multinational Corporations (MNCs) are a vital new road to economic growth, whereas others feel they perpetuate underdevelopment." Discuss. 15 marks

Q3.(a) Discuss the relevance of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on the security of women in conflict zones. 20 marks
(b) Would you agree that the on-going debates on international environmental politics continue to be marred by a new North-South ideological divide over historical responsibility and developmental model ? Illustrate your answer with suitable examples. 15 marks
(c) "Since its inception the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) has failed to deliver on its promises." What initiatives should be taken to reinvigorate the organization ? 15 marks

Q4.(a) Critically examine the notion of "Asian Values" in the context of the on-going debates on human rights. 20 marks
(b) Discuss the implications of the Trump-Kim Singapore Summit on the prospects of denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula. | 15 marks
(c) Critically examine the Functionalist approach to the study of International Relations. 15 marks

UPSC Mains General Studies Study Kit

section-B

Q5. Answer the following questions in about 150 words each : 10x5=50 marks

(a). Do you agree with the view that the Indian Foreign Policy is increasingly being shaped by the Neoliberal outlook ? Elaborate. | 10 marks
(b) "India is often said to have a rich strategic culture." Discuss. 10 marks
(c) Evaluate India's stand on the recent Rohingya refugee issue. 10 marks
(d) "India's current foreign policy marks significant qualitative shifts from that of the previous regimes." Discuss. 10 marks
(e) Analyse the significance of India's Look East Policy in the light of concerns of the indigenous peoples of North-east India. 10 marks

Q6.(a) India's coalitional diplomacy within the WTO has earned it wide appreciation. What accounts for the success of India's coalitional diplomacy ? 20 marks
(b) "India's capacity building programmes under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) has earned much goodwill for it in Africa." Discuss. 15 marks
(c) "India's Research and Information System for Developing Countries" (RIS) is a major initiative in the area of South-South Cooperation. Discuss. 15 marks

Q7.(a) Discuss the role of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) in promoting India's soft power abroad. 20 marks
(b) Discuss the role of Indian diaspora in promoting Indo-US relations. 15 marks
(c) Discuss the various impediments in India's way to a permanent seat in the Security Council. 15 marks

Q8.(a) Do you think that India's capacity building role in Afghanistan has shrunk the strategic space for Pakistan there ? Discuss. 20 marks
(b) Critically assess the evolving convergence of India and China in the areas of trade and environment. 15 marks
(c) Do you agree that the growing assertiveness of China is leading to multilayered Indo-Japan relations ? Comment. 15 marks

DOWNLOAD 10 YEARS UPSC MAINS Political Science And IR OPTIONAL PAPERS PDF

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DOWNLOAD UPSC PRE G.S. 10 Year PAPERS PDF

(GIST OF YOJANA)  Digital Empowerment through 'Maximum Governance, Minimum Government'

[JULY-2019]

Digital Empowerment through 'Maximum Governance, Minimum Government'

Introduction

•  According to the Report of the Ministry of Electronics & IT, Government of India. ‘India's Trillion Dollar Digital Opportunity’, India has witnessed the second fastest growth rate of digital adoption out of 17 countries of the world over the period of2014-17.

•  The story of India’s digital transformation is one of an ICT - led development by use of technology that is affordable, inclusive and transformative.

•  By ensuring digital access, digital inclusion and digital empowerment, the Digital India Programme has harnessed digital technologies to bring about a positive change towards good governance that is easy, economical, transparent and efficient governance.

Background

•  In fact, it would be correct to say that digital delivery of services to citizens forms the driving force to the next generation growth  trajectory towards a robust and knowledge-based economy.
•  India is now poised for the next phase of growth - creation of tremendous economic value and empowerment of citizens as new digital applications permeate sector after sector.
•  Digital Empowerment through ‘Maximum Governance, Minimum Government’ is not a mere slogan. Instead, it is a conscious strategy towards ushering forms in governance and transforming India by making governance simple, fast, flexible and effective by application of innovations and technology. This also leads to participative governance, a key element of a responsible democracy.
•  The aim is not just to reduce the human interface in delivering services to the people but also to enhance the experience of the citizens, while also providing them with enormous opportunities.

Digital India Programme

•  To achieve this, the Digital India Programme of the Government is playing an important role in empowering citizens.
•  Through the application of digital technologies, the Government is undertaking specific initiatives to improve the delivery systems to ensure that the benefits of the welfare schemes of the government reach directly to the targeted beneficiaries, including the poorest of the poor in a convenient manner without any pilferage.
•  The combination of Jandhan bank accounts, mobile phones and digital identity through Aadhaar i.e. JAM trinity is helping the poor to get benefits directly into their bank account.
•  A total of Rs. 7.34 lakh crore have been disbursed through Aadhaar based Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to beneficiaries of 439 Government schemes which, have led to saving of over Rs. 1.41 lakh crore cumulatively by March 2019, by removing fictitious claimants.
•  DBT brings in efficiency, effectiveness, transparency and accountability in the Government system.

Common Services Centres (CSCs)

•  Common Services Centres (CSCs), as Digital kiosks, are providing more than 350 types of services to citizens in rural areas. CSCs are a unique PPP model where micro- entrepreneurs are creating sustainable livelihoods and bringing about a digital revolution in the villages of India.
•  A vast network of over 3.45 lakh CSCs, providing online government and non- government services, have created entrepreneurial opportunities for nearly one million village-level entrepreneurs, including over 60,000 women entrepreneurs.
•  The world’s largest digital literacy programme, Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (PMGDISHA), is bridging the digital divide and helping people to access benefits of the digital world. So far, 2.2 crore persons have been imparted digital literacy under the programme.
•  MyGov is an example of the Government’s commitment towards participative governance, bringing citizens and Government closer to one another by democratizing the decision-making.
•  Today, MyGov has over 80 lakh users and over 2 lakh submissions have been made in 815 tasks.
•  The BPO movement for smaller towns with 219 BPO units functioning across 97 small cities and 27 States and UTs is facilitating a balanced regional growth, and creating job opportunities in small towns.

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Outcomes of the digital transformation

•  The digital transformation resulting from digitisation is all-encompassing, with the enabling IP driven holistic growth of the IT industry consequence that sector-specific
•  The policy aims to develop India as the strategies developed within silos are not global software product hub, driven by applicable anymore.
• Therefore, the Government needs to build public digital platforms to foster innovation, improved commercialisation, sustainable Intellectual Property (IP), promoting technology start-ups and collaboration amongst sectors and to devise and jointly implement policies/ programmes. Emerging Technologies,  specialized skill sets.
• It also aims at alignment with other Government initiatives, such as, Start-up such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet India, Make in India and Digital India, Skill of things (loTs) and big data analytics are India etc so as to create Indian Software expected to bring in mass disruption.
• The Government has to prepare to leverage the opportunities so unleashed. Business products Industry of USD -70-80 billion with direct and indirect employment of -3.5 million by 2025. as usual will not suffice with new emerging technologies having a phenomenal sweep in all sectors with 'winner takes all’ characteristics.
   Digital India is embracing change and fostering innovation. To accelerate the disruption, the Government is working closely in all sectors to leverage the opportunities of transformative technology.
• To leverage Artificial Intelligence and related emerging technologies in the interest of citizens and businesses, a National Programme on 'Artificial Intelligence' has been envisaged, to be catalysed by the establishment of National Centre on Artificial Intelligence as a hub along with Centres of Excellence.
• In order to ensure growth of the digital economy while keeping personal data of citizens secure and protected, the Government is working towards formulation of Personal Data Protection Framework.
• The National Policy on Software Products has also been formulated that envisages creation of a robust Indian Software Product development ecosystem, thereby

Way forward

•  India is leveraging its strength in IT Services and aiming to become a software product nation, the momentum in electronics manufacturing has been maintained. 268 manufacturing units of mobile phones and accessories creating almost 6.7 lakh direct and indirect jobs.
•  The National Policy on Electronics, 2019 aims to further promote domestic manufacturing and export to achieve a turnover of approx Rs. 26 lakh crore by
  2025.
•  Digital India, utilising the power of digital platforms, has, thus, demonstrated a successful case study, where developing economies, through embracing technologies, will be able to leapfrog towards sustainable and inclusive growth.
•  Having built a strong foundation of digital infrastructure and vastly expanded digital access and outreach, India is now poised for a robust growth of digital technologies in all sectors of the economy that will lead to creation of up to $1 trillion of economic value from the digital economy in 2025.

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(GIST OF YOJANA)  Digital Infrastructure: Core of Governance

[JULY-2019]

Digital Infrastructure: Core of Governance

Introduction

•  Government of India has been at the forefront of using technology in different aspects of governance, be it satellite based communication in 1980s or use of electronic messaging much before the advent of internet in the country or even the use of video conference for monitoring the implementation of Government programmes and schemes across the country.

•  National Informatics Centre, an attached office of Ministry of Electronics and IT, has been closely working with Government in provisioning state-of-the-art infrastructure in the form of nationwide network (NICNET), Data Centres, and Video Conferencing facilities to name a few. Digital Infrastructure for Government was further strengthened through a number of initiatives taken under the National e- Governance Plan.

•  Digital India, one of the flagship programmes of the Government, has given significant push to adoption of technology and has brought a paradigm shift in the delivery of services to citizens and also the way Government engages with citizens. Evolution of key components of digital infrastructure for Government is highlighted below.

Pan India Network

•  NICNET, the Pan India communication network for exclusive use of Government has continuously evolved since 1980s in terms of its geographical expansion, state of the art technology, reliability as well as security architecture. Today it connects Government offices across the length and breadth of India using a combination of technologies viz. fiber optic, copper cable, VSAT, Radio Frequency based on availability and suitability of technology to terrain of the land. Today, NICNET is at the base of all Government communications right from Government to Government, Government to citizen as well as Government to business communication.

National Knowledge Network

•  National Knowledge Network (NKN) is another important initiative which provides Multi gigabit nationwide network connected through 10G backbone. It also extends high speed connectivity to leading Research and Academic Institutions of the country.
•  NKN is steadily evolving as the National Education Research Network (NREN) of India and has made significant progress by connecting over 1699 institutes, 5 crore students, researchers and faculty in the network.

Data Centres:

•  A Host to e-Governance Applications Data Centres are the ideal solutions for offering a robust, highly available infrastructure with adequate redundancy to enable the Government to effectively render a variety of services to the citizens. Realizing the importance of Data Centres, National Informatics Centre (NIC) has established large Data Centres at Delhi, Hyderabad, Bhubaneswar and Pune, which are offering robust, resilient and secure set-up for e- Governance applications, web portals and websites with high availability and accessibility. Mini-Data Centres arc also operational in all NIC State centers to cater to the e-Governance requirements at the state level.

Command and Control Centre

•  Over a period of time, with the read of Digital India Initiatives applications have scaled manifold and there was a need to setup a specialized centre to provide nationwide view for ICT infrastructure for effective monitoring and management and so to ensure availability of all critical services.
•  Command and control Centre have been set up NIC Headquarters which has creased the agility of NIC’s ICT infrastructure.

National Cloud (MeghRaj)

•  In order to utilize and harness the benefits of Cloud Computing. Government of India initiated a Government Cloud initiative titled.
•  “MeghRaj" in 2014. Earlier provisioning of a digital infrastructure was an extremely time consuming process for every individual project.
• However setting-up of a secured cloud infrastructure has reduced considerable amount of time in provisioning of digital infrastructure. On-demand services and scale-up of infrastructure during peak loads has also been made possible by cloud infrastructure. The Government’s cloud-based service delivery platform has  also helped in meeting a number of other objectives, including optimum utilization of existing infrastructure, rapid deployment and reusability, manageability and maintainability, scalability, efficient service delivery and agility, security, cost reduction, ease of first time IT deployment and standardization.
• Various Government initiatives and schemes, such as Swachh Bharat Mission, My-Gov, e-Hospital, National Scholarship, e-Transport etc. have been successfully launched due to a robust and agile cloud infrastructure.

Geospatial Technology

•  Geographical Information Systems (GIS) have improved the accessibility of various e-Govemance services by offering location based access, visual gap analysis and actual on-site representation of various activities. Initiative such as Digital India Programme has made extensive use of geo-spatial technology for effective service delivery.
•  Bharat Maps is a multi-layered GIS platform / web service comprising of seamless country wide base maps, satellite images and hybrid maps aligned as per the global geo spatial standards. It is an essential component of Digital India Programme to support central/state government departments for delivering location driven citizen services. One such successful implementation of geographic information system has been in the rural development scheme MGNREGA. GIS is helping MGNREGA workers to get information about availability of work in the near locations, work site location information, real time transparent attendance and payment information. At the same time, it is benefitting the citizens by enabling geo portal for MGNREGA assets, which will enhance the concurrent social audit by citizens and facilitate feedback information on current status of work, quality validation, etc.
•  Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) Public Finance Management System (PFMS) electronically interfaces with all banks and gives a holistic view of the overall flow of funds in the Government, thereby eliminating delay and increasing transparency.
•  Earlier, there was an inherent delay in the transfer of funds due to multiple layers of governance. With the advent of technology and Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) coming up a paradigm shift has been experienced m the way benefits are transferred to the citizens. DBT has enabled aadhaar and non-aadhaar based payments. Introduction of advancements in online been of extreme payments importance technology intends has but also managing transparency at all possible levels of transactions.
•  Under the Swachh Bharat Mission, beneficiaries had to declare the progress of the amenity construction. All it took for the beneficiary' was to upload the pictures of the construction in phases and post validation and approval of the picture updation and geographical location, money was directly credited to beneficiary’s account.

Email Services

•  X400 email services were launched for Government of India officials in late 1980s for providing an open source based secure and unified messaging platform to Government officials at all levels. The email services have evolved over a period of time in terms of scalability, security, responsiveness and feature sets. As part of the mandate under the Digital India Programme, the Government provided a secure email service to all for official communication. The email services today offer security features such as Geo- fencing, device mapping and adaptive authentication. As on date, more than 25 lakhs User IDs and 2000 applications use the email services. Further, to improve citizen engagement, SMS Service was launched ensuring real time updates to users. Approximately 15 lakhs SMS are sent to the users per day and around 2200 applications are integrated with SMS services.

Video-Conferencing

•  NIC has been offering Video Conferencing services since 1995 for connecting and bringing administration close to each other. As on today, over +1852 Video Conferencing sites have been established, thus becoming an integral component of Government functioning and processes. Video Conferencing is now extensively used at all levels of governance i.e. Centre to State, State to District and Sub-districts, and government to public providing state- of-the-art, high definition, multi-party, anytime, anywhere video conferencing services. This has resulted in substantial saving of time and cost.

Cyber Security

•  Cyber Security is one of the key concerns of any digital infrastructure today and it becomes all the more pertinent when it comes to Government infrastructure. Therefore a dedicated team has been instituted to enhance security posture of the government. Cyber Security has evolved from just being about to network security to application security also, Centres of Excellence for application security have been established across India to protect the Government applications from cyber threats.
•  To address ever increasing threat of cyber-attacks in terms of their magnitude as well as their sophistication.Computer Emergency Response Team (NIC-CERT) group has been constituted with an objective of analyzing, monitoring and responding to cyber threats on critical government cyber infrastructure, like websites, emails and various services. NIC- CERT coordinates with other stakeholders to mitigate the cyber threats by monitoring network for security incidents and issuing advisory for vulnerabilities. NIC-CERT works in close guidance of CERT-ln, which is the national nodal agency for responding to computer security incidents as and when they occur.

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Digital Platforms

•  Availability of cloud infrastructure in Government has given rise to launch of number of digital platforms at National level (One Nation One Platform). These platforms have addressed the issues of inter-operability. seamless integration and consolidation by creation of National Registers for vehicles, houses, toilets, ration cards, etc.
•  With a stable, reliable and best in-class digital infrastructure, the government of India along with NIC and other key stakeholders have successfully set-up various services such as e-Office, e-Transport.
•  e-Hospital to name a few. A well established IT infrastructure has ensured end-to-end provisioning of various services right from planning to a seamless execution. One such success story is of e-Transport, where NIC was associated for the design, development, roll out and maintenance of the project across all the states and UTs.
• The initiative saw an extensive array of G2G, G2B and G2C services benefitting citizens, transporters, vehicle dealers.  manufacturers, police and security agencies, banks, insurance companies, Intelligence. IOT, 5G. Edge computing, etc. have been identified. various Government Departments at the
•  NIC is in a unique position to cater to the State and Central level. Today, for some ICT needs at all levels of governance, i.e. services such as tax payment, getting central, state, districts and sub-districts as specific certificates, etc. no RTO visit is required.
• New' citizen focused initiatives like mobile- well as at executive, judiciary and legislative layer of the Government. All these citizen services provided by various based traffic enforcement solution through e-challan. Mobile extension for services in government organizations are leveraging a common underlined digital infrastructure. the form of Parivahan app. with 4 million downloads and Comprehensive Analytics Portal are innovations emerging from such platforms.

e-Way Bill

•  e-Way Bill system has been a key lever in the success of Goods and Services Tax (GST) implementation. Within a year, the number of e-Way bills generated were more than 5577 lakhs and almost around 172 lakhs are verified. This brings the consigner, consignee and the tax payer on a single platform.
• For rural development, the government has harnessed technology for implementing various ICT applications in over 10 programs including Pradhan Maotri Aawaas Yojana - Gramin (PMAY-G). Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment GuaranteeAct(MGNREGA), National Social Assistance Program (NSAP), Deen Dayal Upadhyay Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDUGKY), Deendayal Antyodaya YojanaNational Rural Livelihood Mission (DAY-NRLM). a project to profile all GPS and villages on various social, economic and infra parameters (Mission Antyodaya), etc.

Way Forward

•  NIC continuously strives to explore and evaluate new technologies to enhance government digital infrastructure. In-line with the approach of embracing new technologies, areas such as Artificial
• Initiatives have been undertaken to establish Centers of Excellence for Data Analytics, Block Chain, Artificial Intelligence, etc. to ensure that the Government infrastructure is future ready in terms of technology adoption and its applicability in various initiatives.

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BIHAR State GK Questions (Set-7) for BPSC Exam

Q.1: ज्ञानपीठ पुरस्कार प्राप्त करने वाला बिहार पहला व्यक्ति कौन है ?

(a) श्रीकृष्ण सिंह
(b) डॉ. रामधारी सिंह
(c) रणधीर वर्मा
(d) इनमें से कोई नहीं

Q.2: बिहार में किस स्थान पर महात्मा गांधी ने सत्याग्रह किया था ?

(a)चम्पारण
(b) वैशाली
(c) पटना
(d) पाटलिपुत्र

Q.3: बिहार राज्य में कौन-सी भाषा प्रचलित नहीं है ?

(a) मैथिली
(b) मगधी
(c) अवधी
(d) भोजपुरी

Q.4: बिहार राज्य में शिक्षा का स्तर कैसा है ?

(a) अति उच्च
(b) मध्यम
(c) उच्च
(d) निम्न

Q.5: बिहार में पहला दूरदर्शन केन्द्र कब स्थापित हुआ था ?

(a)1978 ई.
(b) 1975 ई.
(c) 1982 ई.
(d) 1912 ई.

बिहार लोक सेवा आयोग प्रारम्भिक परीक्षा के लिए अध्ययन सामग्री

Study Kit for Bihar Public Service Commission Preliminary Examination

Weekly Current Affairs Update for IAS Exams Free Sample

VOL. - 222 (05 March 2018 to 11 March 2018)

Covered Topics:

• National

• International

• Business And Economy

• Science and Technology

• Important Article From Various Newspapers

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(The Gist of Kurukshetra) RURAL TOURISM: AN ASSET TO NON- FARM SECTOR

 [JULY-2019]

RURAL TOURISM: AN ASSET TO NON- FARM SECTOR

Introduction

• India -third residing is population predominantly in rural areas and a National 70 rural per country cent Sample workforce with Survey two data shows that more than one-fifth of rural households with self- employment in agriculture have income less than the poverty line. Interventions to enhance farm productivity are easier said than done, as they require consistent long- term efforts. Rural economy constitutes 46 per cent of national income.
• A NITI Aayog paper published in the year 2017 states that, contrary to the common perception about predominance of agriculture in rural economy, about two- third of rural income is now generated in non-Agriculturai activities. Rural India is, therefore, witnessing a transition from agriculture to more productive non-farm sectors. Share of agriculture in rural output is merely 39 per cent, rest is contributed by the manufacturing, construction and service sectors. An attempt is made here to explain the role of rural tourism as part of non farm sector in Improving ‘overall’ rural Income.

Importance of Rural Non-Farm Sector

•  Rural non farm activities may differ from one country to another and also from one geographical tone to another. Scholars suggest that even within the same country, the proportion and types of activities may vary among regions. Non-farm sector is being accorded wide recognition in recent years for the following reasons:
•  It may facilitate employment growth.
•  It may prevent many rural people from migrating to urban areas.
•  It offers more remunerative activities to supplement agricultural income.
• It provides a means for the rural poor to cope when farming fails.

Mapping the Rural Resources for Tourism

•  Villages in India have a facet that makes them unique. A survey to identify such resources may be started in order to showcase the attractions and transform them into tourism products. Though each of the 52 commissioned rural sites of MoT has a USP (rural resource), it has attempted to divide the rural resources into three categories:
•  Resources by virtue of geographical and climatic characteristics of the region, flora and fauna, rivers, landscape, scenic beauty etc.
•  Aspects of the rural culture like village folklore, handicrafts, textile products, social bonds etc.
•  Farm produce and practices like sowing, harvesting etc.

Capacity Building and Government Schemes

•  Community mobilization and building capacities in rural areas are very important as rural tourism can provide livelihoods to those who can participate in tourism, whether in hospitality or in craft or in any other allied services that a tourist requires.
•  Hospitality and accommodative spirit are the core virtues of rural India; a basic orientation with respect to operational aspects of tourism is enough to make villagers embrace tourists. Those educated in the village may be imparted fundamental technological skills (use of smart phones in execution of tourism) so that they can connect with the tourists before and after the visits and also with the various service providers in the supply chain.
•  Schemes of central government like National Rural Livelihood Mission, Deen Dayal Upadhyay Grameen Kaushal Yojana and similar schemes of the state governments can offer significant help in conducting training programs in hospitality, housekeeping, catering, basic accounting etc. Hunar Se Rozgar Scheme and regional level tourist guides training programme executed by MoT can also assist in capacity building. As rural tourism sites are state specific, therefore assistance of tourism departments in various state universities can also be taken for imparting skills.

Co-ordination among Stakeholders

•  For tourism to thrive, there has to be sync between attractions (rural resources), accessibility, accommodation and amenities. Mere possession of a resource does not guarantee tourism promotion automatically. Therefore, necessary infrastructural facilities such as transport to access the rural destinations, facilities to stay, healthcare facilities, ATMs, telecommunication facilities, internet connectivity are equally essential. Scheme of e-tourist visa that allows visa approval on the email through e-application within 72 hours of the application has eased foreign tourist entry in India.
•  Swachh Bharat Abhiyan aims towards image building of India as a dean and hygienic destination, Hodka Village Resort in Rann of Kutch, Gujarat is one of the most successfully implemented rural tourism initiatives. Hodka story signifies the role of the Village Tourism Committee (Paryatan Samiti) headed by the District Collector of the concerned rural tourism site. There is a need to make Panchayat functionaries aware about the concept and benefits of the rural tourism. Support from State institute of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj and Tourism Department of State Governments can act as catalyst.

Conclusion

•  There is an urgent improve the economic scenario in rural India to have a sustainable growth model for the country as a whole. Rural tourism resources could be instrumental in bringing out the much needed turnaround of rural communities and at the same time provide visitors a wholesome tourism experience.
•  When developed to its fullest potential, it could provide jobs to villagers who otherwise are increasingly migrating to cities. It can revive many traditional crafts which are dying a slow death. Socially, it can open rural mindset to new thoughts and ideas from the outside world. Urban areas are characterised by monotony, fatigue, job stress, pollution; rural tourism can act as stress buster.

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(The Gist of Kurukshetra) Non farm sector in India

 [JULY-2019]

Non farm sector in India

Introduction

•  In India almost 70 percent population lives in the countryside, thus ascertaining that the soul of India lives in villages.

• Again, India has been traditionally an agrarian country. Thus, rural India has always been the centre of both national as well as international focus.

• Besides agriculture, traditional handlooms and handicrafts of India like weaving, pottery, etc. have also been nurtured in rural India, making it the cradle of modern Indian civilization.

What is Rural Non-Farm Sector?

• The Rural Non-Farm Sector (RNFS) encompasses all non-agricultural activities: mining and quarrying, household and non-household manufacturing, processing, repair, construction, trade and commerce, transport and other services in villages and rural towns undertaken by enterprises varying in size from household own account enterprises to factories.

Need for Rural Non-Farm Sector

• Over the years, the economic contribution of agriculture to India's GDP is steadily declining with the country's broad-based economic growth.
• As per the Tenth Agricultural Census, the average size of agriculture landholding declined to 1.08 hectare in 2015-16 from 1.15 hectare in 2010-11. This explains the rise of employment in NonFarm Sector. It is observed that 64 per cent of rural employment is in the agriculture sector, while the share of agriculture in rural output is 39 per cent.

Different Rural Non-farm Sectors

• Mining and Quarrying: According to Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) by Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), the percentage of rural males and females employed in this activity is 0.5 per cent and 0.2 per cent, respectively during 2017-18.
• Household and Non-Household Manufacturing: As per PLFS, during 2017- 18, about 52.2 per cent of rural households had major source of income from se/f-employment. The share of rural households with major source of income from casual labour during 2017-18 was 25 per cent and that of regular wage/salary earning was 12.7 per cent.
• Construction and Manufacturing: The proportions of male and female workers in rural areas engaged in 'construction' sector were 14.5 per cent and 5.3 per cent, respectively. The proportions of male and female workers in rural areas engaged in  'manufacturing' sector were 7.7 per cent and 8.1 per cent as per PLFS.
• Trade, Hotel and Restaurant: As per PLFS 2017-18, the number of rural males and rural females engaged in these activities are 9.2 per cent and 4.0 per cent, respectively.
• Transport, Storage and Communications: 5.2 per cent of rural males and 0.3 per cent of rural females are engaged in these sectors as per PLFS 2017-18.

How can RNFS be developed?

• In order to develop Rural Non-Farm Economy, heavy investments are needed for inclusive, sustainable and diversified rural development along as access to markets, education and health) for the overall economic development of backward rural areas.
• This will also provide an additional avenue of livelihood for SHGs.
• Around 624 routes are currently served by AGEY across the country as on January 2019.

Strength in Rural Non-Farm Sectors

•  In India, the institutions underlying the development of non-farm sector have been strengthened over the years.
•  The introduction of JAM Trinity - Jan Dhan, Aadhar and Mobile has increased the share of total disbursement of money in the non- farm sectors.
•  This is in addition to the existing financial institutions like Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC), State Khadi Boards, Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) etc which have helped in the development of agro-industries, domestic marketing channels for rural non farm production as well as government support in export promotion.

Challenges in Rural Non-Farm Sectors

1. Infrastructure: The most significant bottleneck in generating higher levels of non-farm activities in India is the quantity, quality and reliability of infrastructure. Corrective steps are being taken in this regard like development of roads, increase in road connectivity, improvement of power supply, etc. as discussed in the previous sections, resulting in a more holistic development. More efforts in this regard will lead to more flourished non-farm sectors.
2. Regulatory restrictions on small sectors: Regulation of the small-scale sector constitutes an important aspect of non- farm development policy in India. In the initial stages, capital investment restrictions were imposed to protect the small-scale sector, especially in rural areas from predation by large industry. Reservation of products for the sector was initiated to create a domestic market and quantitative restrictions imposed to protect them from competition from imports. At the end of the 1990s, however these very policies have become detrimental to the dynamism of the small- scale sector, especially in the rural areas. Capital investment limits have discouraged economies of scale, and concession offered to small industry have created adverse incentives against re-investment. Reservation of products for the small-scale sector has gradually reduced in significance. The decision of the government to put a the reserved items in the open general license category from April 2005 meant free import of such items at the prevailing tariff rate With the latter slated to come down over time to around 20 per cent as per the WTO norms this will effectively signal the end of protection for the small-scale industry.
3. Education and Awareness: High levels of illiteracy in rural India have hampered the growth of the rural non-farm sector Education has both intrinsic and Instrumental value Apart from having a positive correlation with wages, a minimum basic standard of education is necessary to apply for credit, to be aware of one's rights and responsibilities and to deal with instances of corruption and malpractice. Often, a lack of education is intrinsic to poverty, which seems to have been the case in India until recently. This is also supported by the fact that wage rates are not defined and depends on the contratcors' wishes. Women are more vulnerable than their male counterparts because generally they are less educated and less paid.

Conclusion

•  Around 70 per cent of Indian population still lives in rural areas with the major source of income continuing to be agriculture. However, with increased urbanization and decrease in the agricultural land. Non Farm Sector in rural India is gradually gathering momentum. This is supported by the implementation of different schemes of the Union Government like Skill India, Make in India, Digital India, etc. More livelihood and poverty alleviation programmes will bring in more participation in the non farm activities, reducing the dependence on agriculture.
•  Agriculture needs to be incentivized in its own way along with the development of non-farm activities to improve the economic situation of rural India. This can be more facilitated by providing more financial/credit facilities, research and development and increase woman s participation to make non-farm activities self-sustainable in the days to come.

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(GIST OF YOJANA) Tracking Schemes through GIS

[JULY-2019]

Tracking Schemes through GIS

Introduction

•  Location based information is a vital aspect of a digital economy not only to plan and monitor the developmental programmes but also to manage transparent, efficient and effective delivery of citizen-centric services.
•  The use of Geographic Information System (GIS) as a decision support system for developmental planning is a critical the Central and the State Government
  Departments across the country.
• The key features of NCoG may be summarised through the following:
• 1:5000 Basemap.
• Open Source and in-house development - This results in cost saving as there is no use of any proprietary' software.
• Integration of technologies (including web,mobile,GIS,GPS, image processing, mathematical models).
• Compatibility with multi-purpose geo- datasets.
• Dynamic Query- Logical & Boolean operations based query models. This facilitates in generation of customized reports and advanced analytical dashboards.
• Training - Two-way capacity building.
• Authentication-The representation of data on GIS platform is authenticated by the user/owner department/agency itself.
• Acceptability, affordability and adoptability by the user departments through integration of technology.
• A solution-based approach, keeping in view the user’s requirements.

Key NCoG Projects Aspirational Districts

• The objective of this project is GIS based planning application for 117 aspirational Districts management, monitoring the progress of key socio-economic indicators and to reduce regional disparity.
• Some of the key sectoral information available in the portal includes Topography, Demography, Census based amenities, Education, Energy, Financial, Health & Nutrition, Forest data. Infrastructure, Water
• Resources and Animal Husbandry etc.
• Industrial Information System (IIS)
• GIS mapping of Industrial Parks, estates, clusters, areas, zones under the National Plan for Manufacturing Clusters for DPIIT, Ministry of Commerce and Industry
• Details of transport, urban infrastructure, agriculture and horticulture aid decision- making in the establishment of new infrastructure and optimizing the use of existing infrastructure.

Mining Surveillance System (MSS)

• The aim of the MSS web based portal and mobile applications (for both officials and citizens) is to curb illegal mining through automatic remote sensing detection.
• Khasra maps of the mining leases were geo-referenced and superimposed on the satellite imagery, which checks a region of 500 meters buffer around lease boundary for any unusual activity.
• Any discrepancy is ffagged-off as a trigger using manual and automated satellite image analysis. A mobile app is available to facilitate the visit of field level officers for  apply for incentives online, track their application and receive status related notifications. The applicant receives timely updates at every level of the process and once the application is approved by the competent authority, i.e. Central level (DPIIT), the applicant receives a registration certificate digitally.
• Various claim forms (including Capital, Interest, Insurance, Transport) have been developed to ensure complete processing of claims online with minimal information to be filled.
• The future roadmap of this portal entails mobile-basedground truthing and monitoring ofindustries, which have received subsidies under these schemes. Social Benefits Management System (SBMS)
• An online platform (web based application) developed for Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, SBMS manages the disbursement of benefits to Schedule Castes/Backward Classes/ Safai Karamchari applicants.
• SBMS web portal was launched on 27 February, 2019 by Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment.
• It has been implemented to facilitate efficient management of both Bank Linked Schemes (where Ministry transfers funds to states for subsidy) and NonBank Linked Schemes (where all three apex corporations are involved i.e. NSFDC, NBCFDC and NSKFDC).
• One of the key features of this system is beneficiary engagement with facility of transparent and seamless electronic services. The beneficiary can apply online, track his application, get notified (on SMS as well as on his system), edit details, provide clarifications and get the interview scheduled through this online platform.
• District level officers, State level officers and Central users (Ministry and Apex Corporations) have their own dashboards and reports, enabling them to evaluate, monitor and respond to the applications efficiently.
• Geographic Indications of India (GIs) Mapping and promotion of GIs of India, mapping of all registered users of GIs to be tabbed under this project.
• First ever GIS mapping of 3,000 registered sellers of GIs of India was initiated under the project.

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Delhi Police One Touch Away App

• Registered GIs of India are already mapped. Information about all GIs process of manufacturing, origin, cultural significance is available digitally.
• Data related to GI- Name, Description, History, Uniqueness, Production Process, Geographic origin etc., is also available on the portal.
• Canal Mapping and Cropped Area Monitoring, Waterbody Monitoring.
• Mapping of all live and ongoing canal projects of the Accelerated Irrigation Benefits Programme (AIBP), Surface Minor Projects and under Repair, Renovation and Restoration (RRR) projects is supported.
• 106 AIBP projects have been mapped ensuring transparency in impact analysis, efficient monitoring of project progress and cropped area analysis completed for the years 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018.
• Over 200 water bodies under RRR mapped to enable real-time and effective action. This is facilitated through authentic status of water bodies and efficient monitoring of the project progress. Delhi Police
• Development of mobile apps for survey / data collection for dark spot analysis and development of  a single mobile platform to host all 40+ Delhi Police services for citizens and Police personnel is covered under the project.
• Mobile App for Delhi Police and NDMC allows citizens to plot the dark spots in Delhi and enables
• Delhi Police to update the status of poles (not operational/ partially operational), seamless integration with NDMC-311 application, and creating tasks for Junior Engineers, Assistant Engineers for taking action against inoperative light poles and real-time navigation for police vehicles.
• Integration of 40 services on a single mobile app has been achieved with this mobile app.
• The mobile app also supports for SOS Call facility which shares user details along with their location with emergency contacts and Delhi Police for quick action. All 200+ police stations of Delhi Police have been already mapped and navigation to the nearest Jurisdictional Police Station feature is also incorporated in the application. This mobile app is planned to be launched soon.

Coal Mine Surveillance and Management System (CMSMS)

• CMSMS web portal developed for Ministry of Coal aims to make use of automatic remote sensing to curb illegal mining of coal and facilitate real-time tracking and monitoring.
• Some key achievements of this project include ‘Khanan Prahari' mobile app, which was launched for reporting of illegal coal mining by citizens.
• Through this application, 104 cases have been reported by citizens; of which 12 illegal mining cases were confirmed and FIR was filed in three cases. Also, 869 coal blocks (100 per cent) have been mapped under the project.

Way forward

•  The NCoG platform has been working on other important projects including Government Land Information System, National Mission for Cultural Mapping, School Information System, Solid Waste Disposal and Management System, Internal Management System for Security Agencies and Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakaram (RBSK) among many others.
•  In addition, theGovernment is also working on leveraging and integrating emerging technologies such as Blockchain, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning,Internet ofThings (IoT), Big DataAnalytics with GIS to give further boost to developmental planning, foster citizen-centric service delivery and good governance.

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(GIST OF YOJANA) Transformational Shift in Delivery of Services

[JULY-2019]

Transformational Shift in Delivery of Services

Introduction

•  Indian history is replete with instances services of Government who were extremely conscious of their duty to provide services to their citizens.
•  Continuous efforts were made by them to set up systems of good governance through various schemes and laws.
•  These systems were however largely based on records, files and transactions which were generally physical.
•  It has been only in recent years that the concept of citizen centric e-Services has come to the fore.

Aim of the e-Services

•  Citizen centric e-Services aim to digitally empower the society and transform the economy. They aim to restyle how citizens avail of services and participate in the economy using less cash, opting instead for UPI, internet banking, direct benefit transfer, digital payment platform etc., using unique identification techniques, like Aadhaar, so as to drive financial inclusion with minimum lapses and delays.
•  Government's push towards a Paper-less, Presence-less and Cashless model of e- govemance and the launch of Aadhaar, UPI and BHIM have transformed the economy.
•  Banking is fast moving from branch banking to a virtual world of banking called Digital Banking.

Various citizen centric schemes

•  Various new citizen centric and transformational digital platforms that have been developed include BHIM-UPI, e- NAM, GSTN, DigiLocker, GeM, e-Hospital, MyGov, UMANG, SWAYAM, Jeevan Pramaan. NSP etc. These efforts are heavily dependent upon the efficient use of technology and as a result technology is increasingly being used to transform learning, economy and citizen services delivery mechanisms.
•  The reach of mobile network, internet and electricity is expanding its reach to remote areas, thereby ensuring that the marginalized sections of the society are also brought into the mainstream.

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Key beneficiaries

•  This digital transformation is facilitating the ease of access for citizens with disabilities as well and empowering them to access various products and services despite mobility constraints.
•  In the field of education too, technology is playing a greater role than ever before and is transforming classrooms from being isolated units of learning to more  collaborative and communicative spaces with digital pedagogies, critical enquiry and component of e-Kranti pillar under the Digital India programme. To leverage GIS demographic spaces that go beyond under Digital India. Ministry of Electronics geographical constraints.
• Likewise, to minimise farmers’ distress, and Information Technology (MeitY) had launched National Centre of
  digitalising of farming systems and creating a database is also a step towards GeoInformatics (NCoG) in December 2015. A major e-governance sub-system, GIS is achieving sustainable agricultural production.
• The delivery of services to citizens in an  an important lever to accelerate growth and increase focus in numerous domains including government, efficient, transparent and effective manner education, environment, natural resources has been addressed by the Geographic and business. NCoG platform is aimed as
• Information System as a decision support system for developmental planning.
• Citizen centric e-Services focus on a single source GIS platform for sharing, collaboration, location-based analytics and as a decision support system, catering to accessibility, quality, efficiency, affordability, delivery, mobility and user experience.
• Products and services can no longer be viewed in isolation from the larger evolving scenarios around us and there should be a healthy mix of technology with progressive policies and practices.

Way forward

• The Digital India programme and the tremendous focus of the Government on providing citizen centric e-Services are resulting in the Indian citizens witnessing not only a transformational shift in the delivery of services but also a better engagement of the Government with its citizens.

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BIHAR State GK Questions (Set-6) for BPSC Exam

Q.1: बिहार राज्य में सर्वाधिक गंधक का उत्पादन किस जिले से होता है ?

(a) किशनगंज
(b) रोहतास
(c) भागलपुर
(d) पटना

Q.2: बिहार में किसने "फाग राग का सृजन किया था ?

(a) रजा शाह
(b) महाराजा नवलकिशोर सिंह
(c) महाकवि विद्यापति
(d) मीर कासिम

Q.3: भगवान महावीर का देहावसान बिहार में कहॉं हुआ था ?

(a) पावापुरी
(b) राजगीर
(c) पूर्णिया
(d) मनेर

Q.4: बिहार में किस स्थान पर महावीर स्वामी का जन्म हुआ था ?

(a) पटना
(b) वैशाली
(c) पावापुरी
(d) बोधगया

Q.5: दिल्ली की राजगद्दी पर बैठने वाला पहला बिहारी था ?

(a) कुंवर सिंह
(b) शेरशाह सूरी
(c) बिम्बिसार
(d) अशोक

बिहार लोक सेवा आयोग प्रारम्भिक परीक्षा के लिए अध्ययन सामग्री

Study Kit for Bihar Public Service Commission Preliminary Examination

(Download) CS (MAIN) EXAM:2018 Physics

Exam Name: CS (MAIN) EXAM:2018 Physics
Marks: 250
Time Allowed : Three Hours