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(Current Affairs) International Events | June: 2016

International Events

Sri Lankan Govt to tone down emphasis on Eelam war

  • The Sri Lankan government, in continuation of its policy of de- emphasising the military victory over the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam, has decided not to have any military parade this year at an event to mark the conclusion of the Eelam War.
  • Last year, after MaithripalaSirisena became President, the government renamed the Victory Day as Day of Remembrance, marking the shift from triumphalism to commemoration.
  • Since the end of the civil war in May 2009, military parades constituted an important element of the celebration on May 19.
  • Between 2010 and 2015, such parades were held either on the Galle Face Main, Colombo, or in Matara, a city in the Southern Province. Even last year, the southern city witnessed one such event.
  • Instead, on May 18, a function would be held at the War Memorial near the Parliament, which would be attended by the President. A cultural show would take place at the Independence Square in the evening.
  • The statement said that as the Independence Day was celebrated in a grand manner, the funds that would have otherwise been spent for “lavish shows” would be used for welfare schemes of war heroes and their families.
  • The government also clarified that as in the previous year, there would be no bar on remembering those who died during the civil war but the authorities would not allow any event to hail the LTTE.

(Current Affairs) National Events | June: 2016

National Events

(Exam Paper) UPSC IAS Mains 2009: General Studies

(Exam Paper) UPSC IAS Mains 2009: General Studies

Paper - I

1. Critically analyse any two of the following statements with reference to the contexts in which they were made (in about 150 words each): 15 × 2 = 30

(a) “Many Englishmen honestly consider themselves the trustees for India and yet to what a condition they have reduced our country.”
(b) “The foreign power will be withdrawn but for me real freedom will come only when we free ourselves of the dominance of western education, western culture and the western way of living which have been ingrained in
us.”
(c) “Satan cannot enter till he finds a flaw, ….A great ocean separates us educated few from the millions in our country.”

2. Write about the following (not exceeding 20 words each): 2 × 10 = 20

(a) Kiang Nongbah
(b) Maski
(c) Govind Guru
(d) ‘Brahmadeya’
(e) ‘Egmore Faction’
(f) Haileybury College
(g) Ijara System
(h) Taji Mideren
(i) Gurudwara Reform Movement
(j) ‘Marumakkathayam’

3. Answer any four of the following (in about 150 words each): 15 × 4 = 60

(a) Assess the significance of coastal regions in the economic development in India.
(b) Discuss the wetlands and their role in ecological conservation in India.
(c) Elaborate the steps taken by the Government for regionally differentiated approach to increase crop production and diversification in the country.
(d) Bring out the significance of the various activities of the Indian Meteorological Department.
(e) Examine the status of urbanization among the states in India and bring out spatial inequalities.

4. Write about the following (not exceeding 30 words each): 3 × 10 = 30

(a) ‘bhuvan’ website
(b) National Waterways
(c) Ultra Mega Power Projects
(d) NNRMS
(e) BSUP Scheme
(f) GAGAN Project
(g) Fruit Production in India
(h) Section 377 of IPC
(i) ‘Whereabouts’ clause of WADA
(j) Barren Island

5. Answer any two of the following (in about 100 words each): 10 × 2 = 20

(a) Analyse India’s achievement in the sports sector during 2008-09.
(b) List the salient features of the important folk dances of either Central India or North Eastern India.
(c) What are the important similarities and differences ‘ between the Hindustani and the Carnatic styles of classical music ?

6. Answer any two of the following (in about 150 words each): 15 × 2 = 30

(a) What are your views on the features and impact of the Domestic Violence Act, 2005?
(b) Are the traditional determinants of voting behaviour in India changing ? Examine in the context of the last General Elections.
(c) Examine corruption as a serious development challenge in Indian Polity.

7. Answer any two of the following (in about 150 words): 15 × 2 = 30

(a) Mushrooming of Higher Educational Institutions was a matter of grave concern for Yashpal Committee. With reference to the relevant portion of that report give your views how to harmonise private investment and
quality of education.

(b) In the changing context of governance in the country, what should be the role of the UPSC ?

(c) In the context of recent incidents, suggest measures on how security of passengers and property can be improved over Indian Railways.

8. Answer any one of the following (in about 250 words) : 30

(a) Comment on the salient features of the Integrated Energy Policy recently approved by the Government and its implications on the energy security needs of the country.
(b) How far has the impact of the global meltdown been reflected in the Economic Survey 2008 - 09 ? Identify some of the core areas given priority to neutralise the adverse effects of the global downturn.

9. Answer any two of the following (in about 150 words each): 15 × 2 = 30

(a) Trace the significant steps in the evolution of Television in the country.
(b) The last National Family Health Survey (NFHS) displayed a very dismal picture of nutrition as regards several indicators for average Indians. Highlight the salient aspects of this problem.
(c) ‘As we live in a plural society we need the greatest freedom to express our opinions even if others find it offensive’ - Do you agree? Discuss with reference to some recent incidents in the Indian context.

10. Write on the following (in about 20 words each): 2 × 10 = 20

(a) Significance of 26th November in the country’s polity
(b) Desert National Park
(c) Rajiv Gandhi Seva Kendra
(d) Deep Joshi’s recent achievement
(e) Girni Kamgar Union
(f) Ayush-64
(g) Rashtriya Gramin Vikas Nidhi (RGVN)
(h) Satya Vrat Shastri’s recent achievement
(i) Pocket Veto
(j) PESA, 1996

PAPER - II

1. Write notes on any three of the following in about 150 words each: 3 × 15 = 45

(a) India’s strategic interests in South Asia
(b) China’s ‘peaceful rise’ doctrine
(c) India - Russia Defence Ties
(d) India’s ‘soft’ and ‘hard’ power strategy in Foreign Policy.

2. Write brief notes on any four of the following in about 50 words each : 4 × 5 = 20

(a) Nuclear Supply Group (NSG) and India
(b) Your views on the recent ‘Gilgit - Baltistan Empowerment and Self- Governance Order 2009’
(c) Wakhan Corridor
(d) Nuclear Submarine ‘Arihant’
(e) National Security Advisory Board (NSAB).\

3. Comment on any two of the following in about 100 words each: 2 × 10 = 20

(a) India - USA as strategic partners
(b) Ethnic conflicts in South Asia
(c) ‘NEPAD’ and its objectives.
4. Write on any Two of the following in about

50 words each: 2 × 5 = 10

(a) Indo - Bhutan trade relations
(b) Sino - Myanmar relations
(c) Geopolitics and Geostrategy.

5. Comment critically on any ONE of the following statements in not more than 200 words : 20

(a) “Foreign investment is far from being critical to India’s economic growth.”
(b) “The lesson of the current global financial crisis is that India should halt and may be even reverse financial liberalisation.”

6. Answer any One of the following in about 200 words : 20

(a) “In the WTO negotiations over the years of the DOHA Round, India appears to be diluting its stand on agriculture issues to pursue perceived gains in services.” Critically examine this statement.
(b) Discuss the Indo-US knowledge initiative in Agriculture. Answer any Two of the following (Each answer must not exceed 150 words) : 2 × 15 = 30

17.

(Exam Paper) UPSC IAS Mains 2008: General Studies

(Exam Paper) UPSC IAS Mains 2008: General Studies

Paper - I

1. Answer any two of the following (in about 150 words each) : 15 × 2 = 30

(a) “The emergence of new social classes in British India was the direct consequence of the establishment of new social economy, new state system, sadministrative machinery and Western education.” Discuss.
(b) “British vision of India had no single coherent set of ideas. On the contrary, the ideas were shot through with contradictions and inconsistencies.” Discuss.
(c) “Non-Cooperation Movement gave new direction and energy to the National Movement.” Explain.

2. Write about the following (not exceeding 20 words each): 2 × 15 = 30

(a) Lakshmi Bai, Rani of Jhansi
(b) Ilbert Bill
(c) Lala Hara Dayal
(d) Vaikam Satyagraha
(e) Indian States Commission
(f) Bodhisattva
(g) Megasthenes
(h) Brihadeshwara Temple, Tanjore
(i) Perini Shivatandavam
(j) Allasani Peddana
(k) Golkonda Fort
(l) Chishti Silsila
(m) Chouth and Sardeshmukhi
(n) Poona Sarvajanik Sabh
(o) ‘Rama Sethu’

3. Answer any two of the following (in about 150 words each) : 15 × 2 = 30

(a) The winter rains in North India are largely related to Jet Streams and Western Disturbances. Bring out the relationship.
(b) Agricultural Productivity in India remain low. Explain the reasons for this situation.
(c) Bring out the pros and cons of Special Economic Zones.

4. Write about the following (not exceeding 20 words each): 2 × 5 = 10

(a) Buckingham Canal
(b) Terai Region
(c) Organic Farming
(d) Demographic Dividend
(e) Nor westers

5. Answer any one of the following (in about 250 words): 30

(a) What is meant by ‘Judicial Activism’ ? Evaluate its role in the context of the functioning of Indian polity.
(b) Discuss the major extra-constitutional factors influencing the federal polity in India.

6. Answer any two of the following (in about 150 words each) : 15 × 2 = 30

(a) Enumerate the Fundamental Duties incorporated in the Constitution after the 42nd Amendment.
(b) Examine the demand for greater state autonomy and its impact on the smooth functioning of Indian polity.
(c) Discuss the composition and functions of the Union Public Service Commission.

7. Answer the following (in about 20 words each): 2 × 5 = 10

(a) What is a Censure Motion ?
(b) Distinguish between the auditing and accounting functions of the CAG of India.
(c) Distinguish between a starred question and an unstarred one asked in the Parliament.
(d) What is contempt of Parliament ?
(e) What were the two major considerations to have the Governor appointed and not elected ?

8. Answer any one of the following (in about 250 words): 30

(a) What, in your opinion, are the causes of terrorism ? Suggest suitable measures to deal with the threat of terrorism in India.
(b) Do you think there is a need for a review of the Indian Constitution ? Justify your view.

9. Answer any two of the following (in about 150 words each) : 15 × 2 = 30

(a) Examine the role of caste in Indian politics.
(b) Discuss the problems in achieving National Integration in India.
(c) Examine the impact of Regional Political Parties in Indian politics.

10. Answer any one of the following (in about 250 words) : 30

(a) “Globalization has brought about a distinct class divide in India instead of ushering in a classless society.” Critically examine this argument.
(b) “The conditions of the urban poor are more deplorable than that of their rural counterparts.” Give your views.

11. Answer any two of the following (in about 150 words each) : 15 × 2 = 30

(a) Examine whether rural women in India have been empowered by their active participation in Panchayat Raj System.
(b) “Decline in the sex ratio in India is an alarming sign for India’s future social development.” Discuss.
(c) What should be the role of the media to project mass reality’ in place of ‘illusion of reality’ ?

12. Write about the following (in about 20 words each) : 2 × 5 = 10

(a) MTP Act
(b) Supreme Court on Ragging
(c) New Seven Wonders of the World
(d) M. M. Punchi Commission
(e) Lakshmi Mittal

Paper - II

1. Write notes on any two of the following (answer to each question should be in about 150 words): 2 × 30 = 60

(a) India and the New World Order
(b) Indo-Bhutan Relations
(c) India and China : Strategy to Boost Ties

2. Write about the following (answer to each question should be in about 20 words) : 5 × 2 = 10

(a) India’s Ocean Development Policy
(b) Major hurdles in Indo-Pak ties
(c) India-Nigeria : Abuja Declaration
(d) India-Bangladesh Border Road cum fencing
(e) India’s L.C.A. (Tejas)

3. Write about the following (answer to each question should be in about 20 words) : 5 × 2 = 10

(a) Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas
(b) Council for Promotion of Overseas Employment (CPOE)
(c) Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) Scheme
(d) Indian Diaspora in Singapore
(e) Indian Diaspora and Bollywood

4. Answer any one of the following (in about 250 words) : 30

(a) Discuss India’s stand on agricultural issues in WTO’s Ministerial Conferences since Doha Round.
(b) Assess the performance of India in attracting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).

5. Discuss any two of the following topics (answer each question in about 150 words): 2 × 15 = 30

(a) Assistance to the States for Development of Export Infrastructure and other Activities (ASIDE).
(b) Convertibility of Indian Rupee.
(c) India on Global Competitiveness Index-2007.

(Exam Paper) UPSC IAS Mains 2007: General Studies

(Exam Paper) UPSC IAS Mains 2007: General Studies

Paper - I

1. Answer anyone of the following questions (in about 250 words): 30

(a) What was the character of socioreligious reforms in the 19th Century and how did they contribute to the national awakening in India ?
(b) The crisis of the colonial order during 1919 and 1939 was directly linked to the constitutional reforms, disillusionment and militant anti-colonial struggles. Elucidate.

2. Answer any two of the following questions (in about 150 words each): 15 × 2 = 30

(a) What are the salient features of the Government of India Acts of 1858 and 1909 ?
(b) Do you think Mahatma Gandhi’s support to Khilafat Movement had diluted his secular credentials? Give your argument based on the assessment of events.
(c) Evaluate the contribution of revolutionary terrorism represented by Bhagat Singh to the cause of India’s struggle for independence.

3. Write about the following (not exceeding 20 words each):

(a) Age of Sangam Literature
(b) Bhakti
(c) Ashtadhyayi of Panini
(d) Charvakas
(e) Ajivikas
(f) Gandhara Art
(g) Mlechchhas
(h) Lingayats
(i) Megasthenes
(j) R. C. Dutt
(k) Nagarjunakonda
(I) Pastoralism
(m) Rudramadevi
(n) Sati
(o) ‘Ramanuja 2 × 15 = 30

4. Answer any two of the following questions (in about 125 words each) : 10 × 2 = 20

(a) Explain how the Himalayan and the Tibetan highlands play an important role in the development of the South - West monsoon.
(b) Technological changes have brought in a major shift in the use of roads as transport corridors in India. How far do you agree with this view ?
(c) Explain the nature and causes of growing slum problems in the metropolitan cities of India.

5. Write notes on the following (in about 20 words each):

(a) Special Economic Zone (SEZ)
(b) Inceptisol (c) Jarawas
(d) Indira Point
(e) Causes of Chambal Ravines 2 × 5 = 10

6. Answer any one of the following questions (in about 250 words): 30

(a) What is a Constitution ? What are the main sources of the Indian Constitution?
(b) Bring out the differences between the Fundamental Rights and the Directive Principles of State Policy. Discuss some of the measures taken by the Union and State Governments for the
implementation of the Directive Principles of State Policy.

7. Answer any one of the following questions (in about 250 words): 30

(a) What is Regionalism? In which way regionalism has affected the Indian polity?
(b) What are the main determinants of voting behaviour in India ?

8. Answer any two of the following questions (in about 150 words each): 15 × 2 = 30

(a) What are the exceptions when the President of India is not bound by the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers?
(b) What is pro tem Speaker ?
(c) Under what circumstances, Parliament may legislate on State subjects ?

9. Answer the following questions (in about 20 words each): 2 × 5 = 10

(a) What is criminalization of politics ?
(b) How is the President of India elected ?
(c) What is casting vote ?
(d) What is the difference between Council of Ministers and Cabinet ?
(e) What is the importance of Right to Constitutional Remedies ?

10. Answer any one of the following questions (in about 250 words): 30

(a) What were the main recommendations of the Platform for Action (PFA) adopted at the Beijing Women Conference, 1995?
(b) Discuss the steps to get rid of child labour in India.

11. Answer any two of the following questions (in about 125 words each): 10 × 2 = 20

(a) What is stealth technology ?
(b) Differentiate between Natural and Cultural heritage.
(c) What is value-based politics ?

12. Write notes on any two of the following (in about 125 words each) : 10 × 2 = 20

\(a) Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS)
(b) Prime Minister’s 5-point agenda for India’s development as a knowledge society
(c) The Lokpal Bill

13. Write short notes on the following (in about 20 words each): 2 × 5 = 10

(a) Yakshagana
(b) PACE
(c) Footloose Industries
(d) The Statue of Liberty
(e) Genome

Paper - II

1. Answer any two of the following (answer to each question should be in about 150 words): 15 × 2 = 30

(a) Indo-Russian Defence Co-operation
(b) India’s response to political crisis in Bangladesh
(c) Elaborate on India’s Nuclear Doctrine.

2. Write about the following (answer to each question should be in about 20 words) : 2 × 5 = 10

(a) SAFTA
(b) India and East Asia Summit (EAS)
(c) Shanghai Co-operation Organisation (S.C.O.)
(d) Panchsheel in India’s Foreign Policy
(e) Relevance of NAM

3. Write about the following (answer to each question should be in about 20 words) : 2 × 5 = 10

(a) Pravasi Bhartiya Bima Yojana, 2006
(b) Indian All-Women Contingent to Liberia
(c) Madheshis in Nepal
(d) Know India Programme (KIP)
(e) Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs

4. Answer any one of the following (in about 250 words) : 30

(a) What is Dumping ? Evaluate the remedial measures taken by Government of India vis-a-vis WTOs provisions regarding dumping.
(b) Comment on the relationship between credit availability and agricultural growth in India.

5. Answer any two of the following (answer to each question should be in about 150 words): 15 × 2 = 30

(a) What is the meaning and aim of Social Forestry ? What are the main weaknesses noticed in Social Forestry Programme ?
(b) Bring out the main objectives of Rashtriya Krishi Bima Yojana. The scheme is being implemented by which agency?
(c) Explain Mega Food Park Scheme of Government, of India.

6. Write about the following (answer to each question should in about 20 words) : 2 × 15 = 30

(a) Explain the term Merit Goods.
(b) What is Cheap Money ?
(c) What is Countervailing Duty ?
(d) What is Hot Money ?
(e) Explain the Concept Trickle Down Theory.
(f) What is Stagflation ?
(g) What is Engel’s Law ?
(h) Meaning of CCI L.
(i) What is Administered Price ?
(j) What is Venture Capital ?
(k) Explain the term Balance on Current Account.
(l) What is Consolidated Fund ?
(m) What is Budget Deficit ?
(n) Explain the term Most Favoured Nations.
(o) Meaning of Capital-Output Ratio.

7. Write about any two of the following (in about 150 words each): 15 × 2 = 30

(a) Impact of globalization on state system and its institutions.
(b) SAARC Summit 2007.
(c) The UN conference on Environment and Development (The Earth Summit)

The Gist of Kurukshetra: June - 2016

The Gist of Kurukshetra: June 2016

Budget 2016-17 : Empowering Bharat

Inclusive growth is multifaceted and can be addressed as growth with justice. Here justice signifies economic, social and political equality among all the people of a country. Inclusive growth in itself does not have any automatic mechanism to reach the deprived and excluded section of society; rather it is the outcome of planned and thoughtful course of actions of the government. Democracy will lose its shine if the deprived masses will not country. Inclusive growth planes for what has remained unplanned and reaches the unreachable. It requires implementing plans and programmes that uplifts the social and economic status of the deprived sections of society

Agricultural Development in Budget

Economics of wellbeing, in rural India, rests on economics of agricultural. Empirical evidences show that improvement in the life of poor; is directly connected to the agricultural development. Considering the above fact, our Finance Minister has taken well thought steps in allocation more funds to the agricultural sector. Rural India is synonymous with agriculture and development of both is intertwined. Contribution of agricultural sector to GDP is only 13.9 per cent, but it accommodates nearly half of out workforce. This contribution of agricultural sector to rural employment and rural livelihood itself signifies its national importance.

Budget has nine pillars for transformation of India, where the first two are ‘Agriculture’ and ‘Rural Development’. These two sectors would certainly be monumental in making development inclusive.

Agricultural Credit Support for Inclusiveness

Agricultural growth depends upon various factors and among them; credit is one of the most important. Availability and access to easy credit is indispensable to enhance agricultural production to meet the rising food demand for our growing population, and raw materials for the industry.

Hence, the provision of agricultural credit in the union budget, is on a continuous rise over the years. It has increased from Rs. 3,75,000 crores (2010-11) to Rs. 9,00,000 crores (2016-17), means more than two times over the period of six years.

Selected Articles from Various News Paper: Civil Services Mentor Magazine - June 2016

Selected Articles from Various Newspapers & Journals

All about the Obama Doctrine

The first decade and a half of the 21st century has witnessed a fundamental change in India-U.S. relations unparalleled in the history of the two democracies. President Bill Clinton demonstrated a tilt towards India during his second term, and subsequently the George Bush presidency brought about a transformational shift in the relationship. Relations have been on an upswing ever since, with the Obama presidency proceeding on the same course. Discerning observers nevertheless see subtle differences in the approach of the Bush and Obama presidencies. Both Presidents have been warm towards India and appreciative of India’s democratic credentials. President Bush, early in his second term, dispelled any notions that the decision to reach out to India had a hidden subtext, viz . strengthening India to function as a counterweight to China. President Barack Obama has been more circumspect, as his world view includes a more accommodative attitude towards China.

The difference, according to strategic analysts, lies in their approach. Mr. Bush acted more on the basis of his instincts — an outstanding example being the manner in which he went out of his way to ensure the successful conclusion of the India-U.S. Civil Nuclear Deal without seeking any quid pro quo. Analysts argue that Mr. Obama is more a practitioner of realpolitik and tends to see most issues through this prism.

In the light of this, recent references to an “Obama Doctrine” should be of vital interest to Indian policymakers. The so-called doctrine is embedded in a series of interviews that Mr. Obama gave to Jeffrey Goldberg of The Atlantic magazine. Compiled into an essay, it takes on the character of a doctrine, though the President himself may be chary of acknowledging it as such.

Forest Fire: Civil Services Mentor Magazine: June - 2016

Forest Fire

Recently India witnessed one of the bigggest forest fires in Uttarakhand. The forest department estimated that 3,500 hectares (8,600 acres) of forest had been burnt. Nearly 1,600 incidences of fires were detected which were brought under control. National disaster response force along with worked day and night to solve this problem. Rains also came in timely to help in keeping the fire down. Forest fires always start by one of two ways - naturally caused or human caused. There are various reasons for natural fires to start as well, lightning is the most important reason for natural forest fires. Natural forest fires are of less percentage compared to human-caused fires. Human-caused fires can also start through various ways. Some classifications include smoking, recreation, equipment, and miscellaneous. Human-caused fires constitute the greater percentage of forest fires in our forests, but natural fires constitute the great majority of the total area burned. Simple reason for this is human-caused fires are easy to detect, so it is easier to remove them than natural forest fires.

There are three elements that are required for a forest fire to burn: Heat, Oxygen, and Fuel. This is the so-called "fire triangle". Without all three of these elements, the fire will go out. Forest fires propogationis also in the direction where the these three elements are abundantly present. Fire triangle also acts as a regulator, where there is less presence of any of these three fire tends to stop. Once the fire enters the combustion stage, there are three main types of classifications for the fire. A smoldering fire is one that emits smoke but no flame and is rarely self-sustained. A fire is classified as flaming combustion when flames are present. Charcoal can be formed in the absence of oxygen with this type of fire. Glowing combustion is a later stage of the fire and is characterized by a slower rate of combustion and blue flame.

Most important classification of a forest fire is in which part of forest, it is burning. If they occur on the ground it is known as ground fires. This kind of fire is mostly below the level of leaves. Other type in this classification is surface fires. Surface Fires occur on the surface of the forest up to 1.3 meters high. Similarly forest fires which occur at the top of the tree are called as crown fires, they are the most dangerous fires. Crown fires can spread the fastest. It is not uncommon for two or three types of fires to occur simultaneously. Deadliest fire is when fire can jump from one crown to another. Crown fire is often sustained by the surface fire. A crown fire is particularly very dangerous in a coniferous forest because resinous material given off burning logs burn furiously. On hill slopes, if the fire starts downhill, it spreads up fast as heated air adjacent to a slope tends to flow up the slope spreading flames along with it. If the fire starts uphill, there is less likelihood of it spreading downwards.

Forests fires are as old as the forests themselves. They pose a threat not only to the forest wealth but also to the entire regime to fauna and flora seriously disturbing the bio-diversity and the ecology and environment of a region. During summer, when there is no rain for months, the forests become littered with dry senescent leaves and twinges, which could burst into flames ignited by the slightest spark. The Himalayan forests, particularly, Garhwal Himalayas have been burning regularly during the last few summers, with colossal loss of vegetation cover of that region.The youngest mountain ranges of Himalayas are the most vulnerable stretches of the world susceptible to forest fires. The forests of Western are more frequently vulnerable to forest fires as compared to those in Eastern Himalayas. This is because forests of Eastern Himalayas grow in high rain density. With large scale expansion of chirr (Pine) forests in many areas of the Himalayas the frequency and intensity of forest fires has increased.

(Article) Strategy of One and Half Month before the IAS Preliminary Examination

Strategy of One and Half Month before the IAS Preliminary Examination

There is approximately one and half month left for the UPSC Prelims. We believe and hope that your preparation is going on fine and at a very good pace. In earlier articles we have already given prelims booklist and how to prepare for the UPSC in general and Prelims in particular. As you must be understanding by now that this is the most crucial time for the studies of the UPSC prelims. Now is definitely the time to go into prelims mode fully. In this article we would like to tell you about the do's and dont's of the next one and half month.

First lets discuss few do's;

  • Prepare a timeline till ten days before the prelims and stick to it by any means.
  • As we keep on saying from time to time that go through previous year questions. If you have not gone through them till now, please go through now.
  • It is becoming increasingly difficult to predict which part would be given more importance by the UPSC, so please make sure that you go through majority of the syl    labus. Exam pattern is increasingly varying so leaving any portion might be very risky.
  • Although full syllabus completion is important, close to exam you can focus more on very important topics like environment and ecology.
  • Some topics which should be covered with great efforts are Ecology, Polity, Modern History, Maping etc. They cover big portion of paper.
  • Prepare current affairs from last September. If you have not prepared self notes go through daily or weekly current affairs from portal.
  • Most important thing right now would be to do as many questions as possible. Take question paper from anywhere and look where you are making mistakes, try to eliminate them.

(Exam Paper) UPSC IAS Mains 2006: General Studies

(Exam Paper) UPSC IAS Mains 2006: General Studies

Paper - I

1. Answer any one of the following (in about 250 words): 30

(a) Regardless of distance in time, there were lots of similarities between Lord Curzon and Jawahar Lal Nehru. Discuss.
(b) How did the Government of India Act, 1935 mark a point of no return in the history of constitutional development in India ?

2. Answer any two of the following (in about 150 words): 2 × 15 = 30

(a) What was the attitude of Indian Industrialists towards the Indian National Congress in the preindependent era ?
(b) Critically assess Sir Tej Bahadur Sapru’s views on Indian Nationalism.
(c) Characterise the main features of Indian Renaissance.

3. Write about the following (not exceeding 20 words each): 15 × 2 = 30

(a) Kalhana
(b) Panini
(c) Yakshagana
(d) Natyasastra
(e) Tabaqat-i-Nasiri
(f) MadhuraVijayam
(g) Pandurang Mahatmya
(h) Prithviraj Raso
(i) “The Insider”
(j) Ali SardarJafri
(k) Aruna Roy
(l) Dr. J.C. Daniel
(m) Balwant Gargi
(n) Dr. Jayant Narlikar
(o) Shashi Tharoor

4. Answer any twoof the following (in about 125 words): 2 × 10 = 20

(a) Bring out the prospects of development of alternative energy sources of India.
(b) Blue Revolution has definite advantages in India but it is not free from environmental impacts. Discuss.
(c) Why do the rivers of west coast not form a delta ?

5. Write notes on the following (in about 20 words each): 5 × 2 = 10

(a) Mixed economy
(b) Winter rains in India
(c) New Moore Island
(d) National Water Grid
(e) Hussain Sagar

6. Answer anyone of the following (in about 250 words): 30

(a) What is right to life and personal liberty? How have the courts expanded its meaning in recent years ?
(b) On what grounds can a member be disqualified from either House of Parliament?\

7. Answer any one of the following questions (in about 250 words) :

(a) What is the ‘strategic partnership’ between India and United States of America ? What are its implications for both the partners ?
(b) Discuss economic backwardness as a major challenge of Indian democracy. Can democracy and development go together smoothly ?

8. Answer any two of the following questions (in about 150 words): 2 × 15 = 30

(a) How would you differentiate between the passage of a Constitution Amendment Bill and of an Ordinary Legislative Bill ?
(b) How does the Inter-State Council establish co-ordination between States?
(c) Is the High Courts’ power to issue ‘writs’ wider than that of the Supreme Court of India ?

9. Answer the following questions (in about 20 words each): 5 × 2 = 10

(a) Explain the following terms :
(i) Dissolution of the House
(ii) Prorogation of the House
(iii) Adjournment of the business of the House
(b) What is Consolidated Fund of India ?
(c) To what extent can the President withhold his assent to a Bill already passed by the Parliament ?
(d) What is India’s ‘Look East’ Policy?
(e) What is meant by empowerment of women’ in India ?\

10. Answer any one of the following questions (in about 250 words) : 30

(a) What are the social and economic consequences of abolishing child labour in India ?
(b) Explain the implications of the implementation of Intellectual Property Clauses in our patent law regime after joining the WTO.

11. Answer any two of the following questions (in about 125 words each) : 2 × 10 = 20

(a) Explain full convertibility of Indian Rupee.
(b) What are the linkages to be developed under the Knowledge Revolution for Rural India Plan ?
(c) What do we understand by ‘Doha Round’ of talks?

12. Answer any two of the following questions (in about 125 words each) : 2 × 10 = 20

(a) Explain the social constraints in bringing about gender equality in Indian society.
(b) What are the problems related to the rehabilitation of the mentally challenged persons in India ?
(c) Bring out the issues involved in implementing compulsory primary education in India.

13. Write about the following (in about 20 words each) :

(a) Business Process Outsourcing
(b) Female foeticide
(c) RCI
(d) UNIDO
(e) S. Chandrashekhar

Paper – II

1. Write about any two of the following (in about 150 words each) : 15 × 2 = 30

(a) US policy on Iran’s nuclear programme
(b) Terrorism : Sources in Pakistan and Afghanistan
(c) Crippling the King in Nepal

2. Write about the following (in about 20 words each): 2 × 5 = 10

(a) Simla Agreement
(b) India-Israel cooperation in the field of agriculture
(c) Pakistan’s role in Sri Lanka
(d) Indo-US military cooperation
(e) Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty

3. Write about the following (in about 20 words each): 2 × 5 = 10

(a) Contribution of the NRIs to GCC countries
(b) Future of Indians in Fiji
(c) Indians in the House of Lords, UK
(d) Contribution of Indians in Silicon Valley
(e) Exodus of persons of Indian origin from Uganda

4. Answer any one of the following (in about 250 words): 30

(a) Discuss the importance of World Trade Organisation (WTO) to Indian economy in the light of various opportunities and challenges at the global level.
(b) Describe the main sources of Industrial finance in India. How could India be benefitted from recent developments in International finance ?

5. Answer any two of the following (in about 150 words each) : 15 × 2 = 30

(a) Discuss the role of public sector during the post-reform period of Indian economy.
(b) Examine the effects of globalisation on poverty removal in India.
(c) What are the implications of gender disparities in India ?

6. Answer the following (in about 20 words each): 2 × 15 = 30

(a) What is Phillips curve ?
(b) What is Hundi ?
(c) What is twin deficit ?
(d) What is the main difference between free trade area and common market ?
(e) What is forward currency market ?
(f) What is offshore currency market ?
(g) What is Laffer curve ?
(h) What are Eurobonds ?
(i) What is disguised unemployment ?
(j) What are nifty and the nifty junior ?
(k) What is Agri-Trade ?
(l) What is CEMA bloc ?
(m) What is rolling settlement ?
(n) What is the difference between Green Box subsidies and Blue Box subsidies ?
(o) What are non-factor services in India’s balance of payments ?

7. Write about any two of the following (in about 150 words each) : 15 × 2 = 30

(Exam Paper) UPSC IAS Mains 2005: General Studies

(Exam Paper) UPSC IAS Mains 2005: General Studies

Paper - I

1. Answer any one of the following questions (in about 250 words) : 30

(a) What in your opinion were the positive steps taken by the British to modernise India ?
(b) Examine the policy of Subordinate Union towards Princely States. Account for the shift from the policy of Subordinate Isolation.

2. Answer any two of the following questions (in about 150 words each) : 15 × 2 = 30

(a) “In the Montagu-Chelmsford Report communal representation and reservations were not only retained but considerably extended.” Comment.
(b) Evaluate Subhas Chandra Bose’s contribution to India’s freedom.
(c) Why and how did the Congress come to accept the partition of the country ?

3. Write about the following (not exceeding 20 words each) : 2 × 15 = 30

(a) Yajnavalkya Smriti
(b) Sutta Pitaka
(c) Bhagawati Sutra
(d) Gangaikonda-Cholapuram
(e) Nizamuddin Auliya
(f) Raidas
(g) Calcutta Madrasa
(h) Jagat Seth
(i) Bhawani Mandir
(j) Baba Ram Chandra
(k) Pandita Ramabai
(l) Sir Thomas Roe
(m) Moplah Rebellion
(n) Tavernier
(o) Darul-Uloom

4. Answer any two of the following (in about 125 words each): 10 × 2 = 20

(a) What are the resource bases available for the economic development of the newly created States of Jharkhand and Uttaranchal?
(b) Elucidate the factors contributing to the growing need for water harvesting in India, both rural and urban.
(c) “Political boundaries and regional boundaries need to be co-terminus.:” Do you agree ?

5. Write notes on the following (in about 20 words each): 2 × 5 = 10

(a) Regurs
(b) Karewas
(c) Negative impacts of shifting cultivation
(d) Causes of droughts in India
(e) Significance of Lake Chilka

6. Answer any one of the following (in about 250 words each) : 30

(a) Comment on the financial relations between the Union, and the States in India. Has post-1991 liberlization in any way affected it ?
(b) Is it possible to distinguish between judicial review and judicial activism in India ? Does the recent behaviour of the Indian judiciary partake more of judicial activism ? Argue with suitable examples.

7. Answer any ore of the following (in about 250 words) : 30

(a) Would you say that the implementation of the Panchayati System in the last ten years has led to a real restructuring of the Indian polity ?
(b) Give your views on the right to freedom of religion as enshrined in the Indian Constitution. Do they make India a secular State ?

8. Answer any two of the following (in about 150 words each): 15 × 2 = 30

(a) What are the constitutional limitations on the free movements of Indians throughout the country ?
(b) How has the Indian State tackled the trade-off between environment and development ?
(c) What are the steps that the Election Commission may take if a recalcitrant State Government wants to put off Assembly Elections ?

9. Answer the following questions (in about 20 words each): 2 × 5 = 10

(a) What is meant by double jeopardy’?
(b) What are the protections afforded to Scheduled Tribes in the Fifth Schedule of the Indian Constitution ?
(c) In what ways can the President of India ascertain the views of the Supreme Court on a particular bill ?
(d) What is the common point between Articles 14 and 226 of the Indian Constitution ?
(e) Who and what does the Indian Parliament consist of ?

10. Answer any one of the following questions (in about 250 words): 30

(a) Discuss the impact of globalization on higher education in India.
(b) What is disaster management? Discuss the steps required to tackle natural disasters.

11. Answer any two of the following questions (in about 125 words each) : 10 x 2 = 20

(a) Explain the implications of the recent Supreme Court verdict on reservations in private and minority educational institutions.
(b) What is the energy independence ? Discuss how India can be transformed into an ‘Energy-independent Nation:
(c) What is eco-tourism ? How could it be promoted in India ?

12. Write notes on any two of the following (in about 125 words each) : 10 × 2 = 20

(a) Sethusamudram Project
(b) Causes of soil erosion and its control in India
(c) Use of Information Technology in health management in India

13. Write short notes on the following (in about 20 words each): 2 × 5 = 10

(a) Equal rights for women in parental property
(b) National knowledge Commission
(c) Genetically modified seeds
(d) Ban on bar dancing
(e) Rehabilitation of street children in India

Paper- II

1. Answer any two of the following (answer to each question should be in about 150 words): 2 x 15 = 30

(a) Present a complete picture of India’s efforts for a permanent seat in the UN Security Council.
(b) Explain the political and economic implications of the IndoIran gas pipeline.
(c) Examine the developments in Afghanistan in the postTaliban period.

2. Write about the following (answer to each question should be in about 20 words): 5 × 2 = 10

(a) Indians in China
(b) Cyber-terrorism
(c) Military rule in Myanmar
(d) Camp David Accord of 1978
(e) Future of Indian expatriates in the Gulf

3. Write about the following (answer to each question should be in about 20 words) : 5 × 2 = 10

(a) Full convertibility
(b) Physical Quality Life Index
(c) Differences between absolute poverty and relative poverty
(d) India - US nuclear pact
(e) Medical tourism

4. Answer any one of the following (in about 250 words): 30

(a) Discuss the causes and ramifications of hunger in Africa.
(b) What are the reasons for industrial sickness in India ? Suggest suitable remedies.

5. Answer any two of the following (answer to each question should be in about 150 words): 2 × 15 = 30

(a) What is the role of external financial assistance in Indian economy ?
(b) Enumerate the objectives of Latin American Reserve Fund. Do you favour such a fund for Asian countries ?
(c) Examine the functions of the European Free Trade Association.

6. Answer or write about the following (in about 20 words each): 15 × 2 = 30

The Gist of Yojana: June 2016

The Gist of Yojana: June 2016

  • Inclusive Growth and Peace: Levers to Opening up Regional Economy (Free Available)
  • STAND UP INDIA SCHEME (Free Available)
  • Education & Employment in North East: The Way Forward (Free Available)
  • Tribal Development In North-East India (Only For The Subscribed Members)
  • North East In Union Budget 2016-17 (Only For The Subscribed Members)

Inclusive Growth and Peace: Levers to Opening up Regional Economy

Although there is much talk about the North-east opening up to South East Asia – a topic of conversation, official approaches and conferences since the early 1990s, -- an important factor in opening up the regional economy surely lies in improved political and trade relations with Bangladesh.

This would enable the NER to play a greater role in South and South East Asia as envisaged by the Prime Minister in his declarations in Dhaka and Guwahati at different times as well as by other leaders before him. The ease of business in slowly improving and a trend setter in this is Tripura, where the state government has got a major Internet Gateway, India’s third, with Bangladesh Government being supportive. Business delegations from across the border are often seen in Agartala, the tiny state’s sleepy capital which is becoming energized. The fact that Tripura a better record of governance than the other North-eastern state and a government committed to delivery of services must be a factor. Insurgency is a thing of the post and much-abhorred Armed Forces Special Powers Act and Disturbed Areas Act were lifted in 2015 by the state government since the state is at peace.

Nuclear Suppliers Group: Civil Services Mentor Magazine: June - 2016

Nuclear Suppliers group

India is trying to get into the coveted Nuclear suppliers group (NSG). The 48-member NSG is a key multi-lateral body regulating nuclear trade. Nuclear Suppliers Group is concerned with reducing nuclear proliferation by controlling the export and re-transfer of nuclear weapon development materials. Nuclear suppliers group is alsoconcerned with improving safeguards and protection on existing materials. NSG came into existence as a responce to India's first nuclear test at Pokhran in may 1974. India's test demonstrated that nuclear weapon can be made through non-weapons specific nuclear technology. Nations already signatories of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) saw the need to further limit the export of nuclear equipment, materials or technology. Another benefit was that non-NPT and non-Zangger Committee nations, then specifically France, could be brought in.

A series of meetings in London from 1975 to 1978 resulted in agreements on the guidelines for export, these were published as INFCIRC/254 (essentially the Zangger "Trigger List") by the International Atomic Energy Agency. Listed items could only be exported to non-nuclear states if certain International Atomic Energy Agency safeguards were agreed to or if exceptional circumstances relating to safety existed. The "Trigger List" remained unchanged until 1991, although the Zangger list was regularly updated. However major changes came only after first gulf war. In this war Iraqi weapons bring forward the need for tightening the screw on export of so-called dual-use equipment. Agreement of changes was published as the "Dual-use List" in 1992. A regular series of plenary meetings was also arranged as was the regular updating of the two key lists.

India is not the signatory of Non proliferation treaty of nuclear weapons. The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons is an international treaty whose objective is to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and weapons technology. Treaty also aims to promote cooperation in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy, and to further the goal of achieving nuclear disarmament and general and complete disarmament. Only four UN members are not the signatory of Non proliferation treaty, they countries include India, Pakistan, Israel and South Sudan. India is also one of the few countries outside the NSG that has ‘full-cycle’ expertise on nuclear technology. The NSG would therefore be strengthened if a country with the capabilities of India, which intends to take part in international nuclear commerce, is admitted. Nuclear suppliers group gave India specific waiver in 2008. While deciding NSG looked into India's long-standing and impeccable non-proliferation credentials would strengthen norms that incentivise good non-proliferation behaviour and vice-versa.

While taking any country into the Nuclear supplers group, group needs to look into certain criteria's. These factors which needs to be taken into account before membership are given below:

Brexit: Civil Services Mentor Magazine: June - 2016

Brexit

A referendum will be held on 23 June in UK to decide whether Britain should leave or remain in the European Union. A referendum is basically a vote in which everyone of voting age can take part, normally giving a "Yes" or "No" answer to a question. Whichever side gets more than half of all votes cast is considered to have won. The European Union - often known as the EU - is an economic and political partnership involving 28 European countries. Formation of EU is not an one stop idea. EU formation went through long period of negotiations. Process started after the world war II. In order to reconstruct the Europe, which was in need of heavy investment after the two world wars.

European countries especially France and Germany decided despite being a past of brutal wars, if they want to keep going and reconstruct Europe again they need to reduce the trade barriers. There was also realisation among the eastern European nations that bigger enemy is not within East Europe rather the Soviet Union. For this initially few years after the WW-II six East European countries came up with European coal and Steel company (ECSC). It removed the tarrif barriers and reduced non tarrif barriers between these countries for the production of coal and steel. After this The European Economic Community (EEC) came into existence through the treaty of Rome. The Community's initial aim was to bring about economic integration, including a common market and customs union, among its six founding members: Belgium, France, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands and West Germany.

European Union came into existence with the Treaty of Maastricht in 1993. a complete single market was achieved, known as the internal market, which allowed for the free movement of goods, capital, services, and people within the EEC. Upon the entry into force of the Maastricht Treaty in 1993, the EEC was renamed the European Community to reflect that it covered a wider range than economic policy. The EC existed in this form until it was abolished by the 2009 Treaty of Lisbon, which incorporated the EC's institutions into the EU's wider framework and provided that the EU would "replace and succeed the European Community". EU has since become a "single market" allowing goods and people to move around, basically as if the member states were one country. It has its own currency, the euro, its own parliament and it now sets rules in a wide range of areas - including on the environment, transport, consumer rights and even things like mobile phone charges.

Gist of The Hindu: June 2016

Gist of The Hindu: June 2016

Our national security mismanagement

National security management under the incumbent Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) regime can best be described as the management of systemic inefficiency, with the institutional and ideational foundations of the country’s national security architecture having become weaker since the new government took charge almost two years ago.

In fact, strengthening national security was one of the major electoral planks the BJP used in the run-up to the 2014 parliamentary elections. It is only fair then that we assess its performance on the basis of the key national security promises it made in its 2014 election manifesto: “Reform the National Security Council to make it the hub of all sector-related assessments”, “completely revamp the intelligence gathering system by modernising the intelligence department”, “ensure greater participation of Armed Forces in the decision-making process of the Ministry of Defence”, and “study in detail India’s nuclear doctrine, and revise and update it, to make it relevant to challenges of current times”. A factual analysis shows that the Modi government’s performance on each of these stated goals has been grossly incompetent.

National Policy on Capital Goods: Civil Services Mentor Magazine: June - 2016

National Policy on Capital Goods

Goods can be largely classified in two types; capital goods and consumer goods. This classification is based upon how the goods are used. A capital good is any good deployed to help increase future production. "Capital Goods” sector comprises of plant and machinery, equipment / accessories required for manufacture / production, either directly or indirectly, of goods or for rendering services, including those required for replacement, modernization, technological upgradation and expansion. It also includes packaging machinery and equipment, refrigeration equipment, power generating sets, equipment and instruments for testing, research and development, quality and pollution control.

Capital goods sector contributes greatly towards the development of the country. It sometimes called as an engine of growth. Initial five year plans focused on the heavy goods industries. At present capital goods sector contributes 12% to the total manufacturing activity.Capital goods sector has a market size of INR 2,50,000 Cr in 2013–14 and a domestic production of close to INR 1,92,000 Cr. The sector is estimated to grow to a market size of approx INR 4,65,000 Cr in 2016–17 with domestic production of approx INR 4,00,000 Cr. Non only it is a major contributor in market size, it is also a major employer of the people. At present more than 13 lakh people are employed in the capital goods industries. This sector has also seen great growth in recent years, it has grown at the rate of 15% per annum over the last decade. This sector is also a good contributer of the exports from India.

Capital goods sector contributes over Rs 52000 crore in 2013-14. Exports from capital goods sector have significantly grown over last few years. Amongst the sub-sectors, heavy electrical equipment and power plant equipment also drive exports, recording export revenues close to INR 30,000 Cr in 2013-14 growing at a rate of 18% per annum. Some of the sectors among the capital goods sector contribute largely in the overall contribution of the capital goods. Heavy electrical and power plant equipment is the largest sub-sector contributing to approx 65% of total capital goods requirement. Other large sub-sectors include construction equipment, process plant equipment and dies and moulds.

New IPR Policy: Civil Services Mentor Magazine: June - 2016

New IPR Policy

Creativity and innovation have been a constant in growth and development of any knowledge economy. Researchs show that countries which spend more on research and development get better rewards in their growth. Innovationa needs to be protected. On the other hand innovation should also be used for the purpose of human challenges. Any IPR policy should balance the above two objectives. An all-encompassing IPR Policy will promote a holistic and conducive ecosystem to catalyse the full potential of intellectual property for India's economic growth and socio-cultural development, while protecting public interest. Govt approved the National Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Policy that will lay the future roadmap for intellectual property in India. The Policy recognises the abundance of creative and innovative energies that flow in India, and the need to tap into and channelise these energies towards a better and brighter future for all.

While India has always been an innovative society, much of the intellectual property (IP) created remains unprotected both on account of lack of awareness and the perception that IP protection is either not required or that the process to obtain it is unnecessarily complicated. The concrete measures taken by the Government in the last two decades in consonance with national development priorities and in conformity with international treaties, conventions and agreements to which India is a party has created and established a TRIPS compliant, robust, equitable and dynamic IPR regime. The continuous and unending improvements alongwith the sweeping and far-sighted changes at the legislative and administrative levels has resulted in strengthening the administration, management and enforcement of IPRs.

Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Annual Report 2015-16

Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Annual Report 2015-16

Ministry Name: Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change

Year: 2015-16

File Type: PDF

(Exam Paper) UPSC IAS Mains 2004: General Studies

(Exam Paper) UPSC IAS Mains 2004: General Studies

Paper - I

1. Answer any one of the following (in about 250 words): 30

(Exam Paper) UPSC IAS Mains 2003: General Studies

(Exam Paper) UPSC IAS Mains 2003: General Studies

Paper - I

1. Answer any ONE of the following (about 250 words) : 30

Pages

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