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THE GIST of Editorial for UPSC Exams : 23 May 2020 (A double disaster: On a cyclone amid the coronavirus (The Hindu))

Keeping the peace: On India-China border tension (The Hindu)

Mains Paper 1: Geography
Prelims level: Cyclone Amphan
Mains level: Impact and characteristics of the Cyclone Amphan

Context:

The trail of death and devastation that Cyclone Amphan has left in West Bengal and Odisha demonstrates, once again, the fragile state of eastern coastal States during the storm season.
At least 72 people are dead in Bengal and normal life is paralysed for millions in Kolkata and in the rural areas of both the States.

Disastrous impact:

That Amphan would be a terrible disaster was anticipated.
The impact has been catastrophic even with reliable forecasts of its movement since May 16, and the preparatory moves by National and State Disaster Response Force units.

Code of practice:

The States along the east coast have evolved a code of practice for a storm coming under category 3 and above:
evacuations, arranging for backup power, warning people to stay far from the coasts, designating strong buildings as cyclone shelters, and providing for at least a week’s supply of cooked food besides bolstering medical supplies.

Aid to the affected:

Yet, the loss of life and damage to livelihoods is always significant.
The Centre and the governments of the affected States, including those in the Northeast must help people already weighed down by a severe lockdown pick up their lives again.
There is an additional challenge, as thousands of people have been moved to crowded shelters where the COVID-19 pandemic poses a continuing threat.
Adhering to hygienic practices, monitoring those requiring medical assistance and testing for the virus is a high priority.

Cyclone warning system:

India’s cyclone warning system has made major advances for being able to provide clear warnings and saving lives.
Many who were working in distant States have just returned to Odisha and Bengal in the wake of the economic paralysis caused by COVID-19, and need sustained support after the storm.
West Bengal Chief Minister has a........................

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Conclusion:

While the battle against the virus may yet be won sooner or later, India must strengthen its response capabilities for a never-ending cycle of storms along its coastline.
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Prelims Questions:

Q1. With reference to the Defence Testing Infrastructure Scheme (DTIS), consider the following statements:
1. It envisages to setup six to eight new test facilities in partnership with private industry.
2. The Scheme is limited to setting up Test Facilities in the Defence Industrial Corridors (DICs) only.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2