February 2016

1 Feb
05 February 2016
20:36
LGBT Rights in India

Indian civilization has provided for a free expression of alternate sexualities but IPC sec 377
criminalizes the few kinds of sexual behavior among the LGBT That is unnatural sex against the
order of nature.
Delhi High court in 2009 judgement allowed consensual sex between same sex adults. It confined
the law only to the non-consensual, penile, non vaginal sex and sex acts by adults with minors.
Supreme Court in 2013 has overturned the above judgement and a curative petition is filed in this
context.
Supreme Court observations in 2013
1. Supreme Court observed that there have been only 200 prosecutions over 150 years. Counter
Fundamental rights to minorities are not determined by the numerical factors. They are
available to all the individuals.
2. It does not criminalize a sexual orientation or a community but merely identifies certain acts as
offenses. Counter argument separation of a person and his acts is not possible. Sec 377 is
misused to harass and extort the homosexuals. It denies the only form of sexual intercourse
available to the class of LGBT persons.
3. In 2014 NALSA judgement Supreme Court affirmed the fundamental rights of and freedoms of third
gender. Equalities and freedoms cannot be fully functional with simultaneous criminalization of their
sexual function.
4. It is always easy to fight the social prejudice when law is on their side. Supreme court has left the
decision on the issue to the parliament
5. Medically, DSM IV diagnostic and statistical manual IV, ICD International classification of
diseases no more identify homosexuality as a disease and considers it as a behavior of a
natural order. Non recognition of their sexuality can cause many mental health problems
India France relations

1. France is the first country India established a strategic partnership in 1998. It is the first major power
to open a dialogue after Indias nuclear tests
2. Strategic partnership institutionalized now at the level of NSA s extends in to anti-terrorism, cyber
safety, nuclear, space and defense related matters
3. The present visit of president Francois Hollande had deepened these relations further and an array
of agreements reached They are Rafale fighter jets, Nuclear installations at Jaitapur,
extension of agreement on defense cooperation, environment and weather monitoring,
climate change, mapping of water resources, joint thermal infrared Earth observation
mission
4. The areas lagging behind are people to people exchanges, economic trade relations
Gujarat terror bill

1. It allows for the state home secretary to authorize the interception of calls on his own. It can be
admitted as an evidence in a court of law
2. It allows the confessions made before the police officer of the rank of superintendent of police as
admissible as an evidence in court of law
3. It provides an extended period up to 180 days instead of the usual 90 days for the filing of a charge
sheet
Indias experimentation with anti-terror laws ultimately led to the violation of human rights. In this
context, country shall work to strengthen police investigation and resources to combat organized
crime.
India Pakistan
DE hyphenation of India and Pakistan mean India and Pakistan will be dealt in two different silos
February Page 1
DE hyphenation of India and Pakistan mean India and Pakistan will be dealt in two different silos
without referring to their bilateral relations. Bush administration de-hyphenated India with Pakistan
and Obama administration planning to re-hyphenate them by merging both the desks.
In the past, India opposed special representative holdbrooke to the region and strongly opposed
America s view of seeing its relations with India from perspective of later relations with other
countries in the region
VISA on arrival to Japanese and South Koreans

It is to promote investments and to deepen business to business relations between the nations.
Question of the day

Democracy shall protect the rights and liberties of everybody. Indias Journey in criminalizing sexual
orientation of LGBT is not in the spirit of our progressive constitution. Social prejudice against this
sexual minority community can be fought only when law is firm on their side. Discuss ?
February Page 2
2 Feb
05 July 2016
20:38
Towards a law on Euthanasia

Active euthanasiaIt is a specific step such as injecting with a lethal substance, to put an end to
his/her suffering.
Passive euthanasiaIt involves withdrawal of life support. It is like stop doing something which
keeps patient alive.
What is stand so far?
1. Supreme court in 2011 judgement disallowed active euthanasia. The court allowed passive euthanasia
with safeguards and fair procedure
2. Now government wants to bring a legislation based on the recommendations Law Commission in its
241st report.
What is the main issue before constitution bench?
1. Whether right to live with dignity under article 21 includes right to die with dignity
2. Whether it is time to allow living wills, or written authorization containing instructions given by persons
in a healthy state of mind to doctors that they need not be put on life-support systems or ventilators in
the event of their going into a persistent vegetative state or state of terminal illness
A comprehensive legislative framework seems to be an effective way to ensure balance between
individual dignity and social ethics.
Seizing the the one belt one road opportunity
Is OBOR a threat or opportunity for India? It could be both! But India can tackle threats and maximize
opportunities with some steps:
1. India has to nurture its strategic imagination and institutional agency especially in enhancing its maritime
capabilities in Indian ocean to avert Chinese presence .This allows India to authoritatively negotiate its
interests in South China sea in return for protecting Chinese interests in Indian ocean
2. India has to overcome the structural bottlenecks in defense decision making (procurement and
partnerships)
3. Streamline Make in India , digital India and project mausam with OBOR to tap the potential of Chinese
infrastructure companies to help achieving double digit growth
4. Given the Chinese eagerness to make India a part of the initiative , India can seek restructuring of CPEC
corridor in return for Indias participation
5. India has the opportunity to induce behavioral change on Pakistan by committing itself to progress of
OBOR in south Asia. Because it makes China a meaningful interlocutor rather than as a one sider as is
case now.
CivilsPrep News Analysis

Rohit and real anti-nationals
A university is about ideas, about dissenting ideas, about pushing the boundaries of knowledge and so
they shall be the places for critical intellectual inquiry. Dissent and discussion are inherent to this.
Democracy shall ensure the dignity for every individual. Intellectual has an obligation to tell the society
what is right
Inverted duty structure

Exporters body FIEO has asked the government to address the inverted duty structure in the forthcoming
Budget to boost exports.
Under the inverted duty structure, finished goods are taxed at a lower rate than raw materials. It makes
the import of finished goods cheaper
February Page 3
the import of finished goods cheaper
Determination of the sex of the fetus

Currently Indias strategy to combat declining sex ratios hinges on the PCPNDT Act (the Preconception
and Prenatal Diagnostic Techniques Act, 1994), which prohibits ultra-sonography for the purpose of
determining the sex of the fetus. It is highly ineffective and Ms. Maneka Gandhi suggests for a reversal
where sex of every child is registered and monitored for feticide.
Myanmar
As per the constitutional arrangement in Myanmar, 25% of seats are still reserved for military. In spite of
Aang San Suu Kyi winning the majority of the seats in the legislature, she cannot be the president of
Myanmar. The constitution prohibits the spouse of foreign national or having children of another
nationality.
Question of the day

One belt one road initiative has a new perspective and many dilemmas for India. Analyze ?
From <https://www.civilsprep.com/civilsprep-ias-current-affairs-2nd-feb-2016/>
February Page 4
3 Feb
05 July 2016
20:39
Jammu and Kashmir

Religious trends In the early years of Independence, Kashmir was dominated by the inclusive
tradition of Sufism and now, more exclusivist radical elements are gaining the ground.
Integration of Kashmiri pundits It is more taken as a governmental project without any citizen
involvement.
Economic opportunities FDI flows, smart cities, start up ecosystem are necessary for Kashmir as
like other part of India and rural business hubs centered around IT, timber industry, tourism need
to be created.
Centers financial packages alone cannot guarantee the opportunities in the long term.
Human rights violations AFSPA without any guidelines, misuse of public safety act are further
alienating the people.
Zika Virus
1.
2.
3.
4.
Spread by mosquito bite Aedes aegypti known to cause chikungunya, Dengue

Largely asymptomatic to diagnose clinically and laboratory diagnosis is only reliable
It is known to cause Gullian Barre and Microcephaly
WHO issued public health emergency of international concern
Section 377
Supreme court of India referred the matter to constitutional bench.
Opinions
1. It is denial of right to privacy and dignity of life and results in miscarriage of Justice
2. Individuals sexual choices and behaviour is his/her most precious and private right
3. Misuse of the provisions of Sec 377 is one of the principal forms of discrimination against the transgender
community
4. USA Supreme Court also held that the gay community was entitled to due process and equal protection
in the matter of marriage
5. Supreme Court of India held that Trans genders as the third gender and recognized their constitutional
rights

MGNRega 10 years of implementation
The scheme led to the highest number of jobs and it has no parallel in the world.
Government is accused that it is withholding the payments to states for MGNREGA works.
World Bank on MGNREGA
1. World Bank said that increasing demand for Jobs under MGNREGA is a symbol of growing agrarian
distress.
2. MGNREGA is the only insurance available for poor in rural areas.
Indian Pharma Exports

USA Government made it mandatory for active pharmaceutical ingredients to be manufactured locally. It
has a huge negative impact on Indian subsidiaries in USA, who largely import it from India.
February Page 5
Question of the day

MGNREGA has many achievement on developmental front. Analyze its role in reducing the rural distress
and success of rights framework in India. Throw light on present day challenges of the program ?
February Page 6
4 Feb
05 July 2016
20:40
Governors Power
In the recent Arunachal crisis power of the governor and his relations with Chief Minister and Council of
ministers has come in to question.
1. Nabam Tuki Government in Arunachal Pradesh was dismissed even before a mandatory floor test could
establish the loss of majority.
2. Supreme Court of India asked for presentation of all material facts.
In other states, situation is no different. For instance, there exists a conflict between governor Ram Naik
and Akilesh Yadav Government. In states of Assam, west Bengal and Tripura governors of the states are
involved with sensitive comments on secular matters. In this context, president of India Pranab
Mukherjees guidelines to the governors need to be emphasized.
Governors shall play their assigned role with respecting the distinctive authority and responsibility vested
in the executive, the judiciary and the legislature and help create a harmonious relationship between
Centre and he states.
Female Feticide
1.
1.
2.
3.
Maneka Gandhis observations on fighting Female feticide has three important components. They include
Establish the sex of fetus when pregnancy is detected
Register it in public records
Ensure institutional delivery
The above prescription to address the challenge is very short sighted for the following reasons
1. It depends on the technology as a solution to fight the discrimination. The problem is in the society and
its patriarchal mindset.
2. Declaration of sex imposes undue social and psychological trauma on the woman.
3. It is an unnecessary intrusion of state in women biological and personal space.
The best way forward is to strictly implement the law PC & PNDT act. MH success shall drive as
an example for other states.
Education Policy
The major observations on our right to education include, According to 2011 census, average literacy
rates vary widely across the states, communities and gender. The reasons include
1. Discrimination Dalits, adivasis and girls discontinue their education due to discrimination.
2. Privatization ASER report suggests that private schools increased by 40% and are more readily
accessible to higher income groups.
Solution
1. DPSP Art 37 recommends they shall be fundamental to the governance of the country. Universal
elementary education is a directive under Art 45. The spirit of DPSP shall continue.
2. Discrimination shall be fought with common school system as suggested by Kothari commission.
3. Value based education values of human dignity and respect to equality shall be taught to make
school education inclusive.
4. Education imparting shall be in diverse ways to transfer the knowledge.

India Thailand (International)
VP Hamid Ansari visit to Thailand
1. India Thailand collaboration is necessary to ensure freedom of navigation and connectivity in SEA region.
2. India will participate in cobra Gold multilateral amphibious exercises in 2016.
3. Both sides agreed to fast track ongoing trilateral land corridor project connecting Thailand-MyanmarFebruary Page 7
3. Both sides agreed to fast track ongoing trilateral land corridor project connecting Thailand-MyanmarIndia.
PSU
Defence PSU
Defence PSU are gaining the profits not in their activity, but in their other income that comes from the
interests accrued from advances given by military.
Monopoly, captive market, Huge advances are keeping their profits alive rather than innovation,
efficiency and achievement.
Direct Benefits Transfer

Government is looking forward to develop a unified beneficiary database to make a common social
security platform. It will be updated in real time and helps in improving the program delivery.
Cancer
Challenges before India in fighting cancer
Lifestyle habits
Early screening and increasing survival rate
Availability of trained personnel and experts
Distribution of trained manpower to rural areas
Breaking the Socio-cultural barriers
Question of the day

Gender discrimination in India flows from various socio cultural factors. Combating the female feticide
need a wider strategy than simple technological solutions. Discuss in the light of recent Government
programs ?
From <https://www.civilsprep.com/civilsprep-ias-current-affairs-4th-feb-2016/>
February Page 8
5 Feb
05 July 2016
20:41
Agriculture Going against the grain

Economy facts
Agricultural growth is twice as effective in reducing poverty compared to the growth originating in nonagricultural sectors.
Most of the poor(80%) live in Rural India. Rural incomes shall grow faster
Share of agriculture is total workforce has fallen to less than 50%
Employment growth has lagged behind the growth in labor force.
Problem
Rate of growth in agriculture and allied activities is down from 4% per annum in the 11th period to just
1.7% in the first there year of 12th
Number of suicides increased
Drought conditions have increased the rural distress
Fall in average size of agricultural land holding. Small farmers are increasingly forced to combine their
farm work with non-farm work.
Non-farm wok is qualitatively low and is like shifting from low income farm work to low quality non-farm
work.
Solution
Public investment it shall address the long term structural constraints in Irrigation, building the
climate resilience, R&D infrastructure, creation of quality employment in non-farm sector.
On irrigation front, watershed projects can be a good drought mitigation mechanism.
Soil Recycling organic matter and converting waste to wealth, re-framing of current fertilizer
subsidy regime and promotion of non-pesticidal management practices are necessary.
Crop diversification protein rich pulses, Millets are rain fed crops. MSP, decentralized
procurement systems can facilitate food security mechanisms.
Research Budget allocations need to be improved and ATMA (agricultural technology
management agency, Krishi vigyan kendras shall be active agents of change in rural areas.
Employment generation in non-farm sector through Agro processing industry, rural infrastructure and
private investment can be a local employment multiplier.
Preotecting Indias Trade Interests

In the light of agreements such as TPP, risk of export market loss from trade diversion is very high for
India.
New issues labor, e commerce, environment, competition, government procurement that are not
in WTO regime are introduced in TPP. India shall oppose such a trade discretionary mechanism
on WTO forums.
India shall closely watch the new regulatory regimes in developed countries that violate the WTO
commitments.
Private standards These are the standards imposed by private MNC companies and they escape
the regulation of WTO. Disciplining of such private standards need to be urgently pursued.
Free trade negotiations India has to speed up free trade negotiations with EU and shall conclude
RCEP (regional comprehensive economic partnership) etc.
Alternatives India shall propose for bio piracy, protection of traditional knowledge etc. as the
alternative subjects for discussion at WTO.
Efficiency of production India shall accelerate the competitiveness of its industry through
February Page 9
Efficiency of production India shall accelerate the competitiveness of its industry through
efficiency enhancement and proper infrastructure.

Nuclear Liability India has ratified the convention on supplementary
compensation
The Convention on Supplementary Compensation (CSC) is an international nuclear liability regime
governed by International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The convention, signed in 1997, pins absolute
liability onto the operators of the nuclear power plant. In addition, it also acts as a pool from where
signatory countries can draw funds if necessary in case of a nuclear accident.
Taliban Talks
Afghan chief executive Abdullah Abdullah says that
1. There are no pre-conditions for talks with Taliban
2. Prime minister Modis visit revitalized the strategic partnership agreement
3. India is kept in loop in talks with Taliban.
India recently Mi35 helicopters to Afghanistan.
Disinvestment
Government started resorting to disinvestment as a route to stay on the course of fiscal path and to take
forward the reform agenda.
It includes a strategic sale in high value companies like BHEL, Oil PSU, defense PSUs.
On expenditure side, 7th pay commission recommendation, central sponsored scheme for irrigation is on
cards.
On reform side, GST and bankruptcy code will be brought in by the Government in budget session.
Julain Assange
Wiki leaks owner, Australian nation is taking an asylum in Ecuadorian embassy in London for the last 3.5
years. Supreme court of UK upheld the extradition of him to Sweden where he is facing the charges of
rape.
He fears that he may be extradited to USA from Sweden where he is facing charge son USA secrecy laws
for his WikiLeaks.
Today, UN working group ruled his detention as arbitrary detention.
Question of the day

Rural economy at current juncture is shifting from low income farm work to low quality non-farm work.
This situation need to be changed. Recommend the measures ?
February Page 10
6 Feb
05 July 2016
20:41
Vocabulary of Justice and being

Supreme Court in Suresh Kumar Koushal vs Naz foundation case overruled the Delhi High court
judgement in relation to the sexual rights of minorities.
It is criticized as against to the rights of privacy, human dignity of trans genders.
Human dignity Understand these words for ethics
1. dignity requires us to acknowledge the value and worth of all individuals as members of our society.
2. It recognizes a person as a free being who develops his or her body and mind as he or she sees fit.
3. At the root of the dignity is the autonomy of the private will and a persons freedom of choice and of
action.
4. Human dignity rests on recognition of the physical and spiritual integrity of the human being, his or her
humanity, and his value as a person, irrespective of the utility he can provide to others.
Other points in article
Delhi High court in 2009 judgement allowed consensual sex between same sex adults. It confined the law
only to the non-consensual, penile, non vaginal sex and sex acts by adults with minors.
context.
1. It does not criminalize a sexual orientation or a community but merely identifies certain acts as offenses.
Counter argument separation of a person and his acts is not possible. Sec 377 is misused to
harass and extort the homosexuals. It denies the only form of sexual intercourse available to the
class of LGBT persons.
2. Supreme Court observed that there have been only 200 prosecutions over 150 years.
Counter Fundamental rights to minorities are not determined by the numerical factors. They are
available to all the individuals.

Nuclear Liability Civil liability for nuclear damage act 2010
Principles
Most conventions and laws regarding nuclear third party liability have at their heart the following
principles:
Strict liability of the nuclear operator

Exclusive liability of the operator of a nuclear installation
Compensation without discrimination based on nationality, domicile or residence
Mandatory financial coverage of the operators liability
Exclusive jurisdiction (only courts of the State in which the nuclear accident occurs have jurisdiction)
Limitation of liability in amount and in time
Operators of nuclear power plants are liable for any damage caused by them, regardless of fault. They
therefore normally take out insurance for third-party liability, and in most countries they are required to
do so.
The potential cross boundary consequences of a nuclear accident require an international nuclear liability
regime, so national laws are supplemented by a number of international conventions.
Liability is limited by both international conventions and by national legislation, so that beyond the limit
(normally covered by insurance) the state can accept responsibility as insurer of last resort, as in all other
February Page 11
(normally covered by insurance) the state can accept responsibility as insurer of last resort, as in all other
aspects of industrial society.
India has civil liability for nuclear damage act to address these.
Internationally,
The IAEAs Vienna Convention* on Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage of 1963 (entered into force in 1977).
The OECDs Paris Convention on Third Party Liability in the Field of Nuclear Energy of 1960 which entered
into force in 1968 ).
CSC Convention on Supplier Compensation

The objective of the 1997 Convention on Supplementary Compensation for Nuclear Damage (CSC) is to
establish a worldwide liability regime and to increase the amount of compensation available to the
victims of nuclear accidents.
A State which is a party to either the 1963 Vienna Convention or the 1960 Paris Convention could
become a party to the CSC. A State which is not a party to either of these conventions could also become
a party to the CSC if its national law on nuclear liability is in compliance with the provision of the CSC and
its Annex, which is an integral part of the CSC.
India not being party to the Vienna or the Paris Conventions signed the CSC on 29 October 2010 on the
basis of its national law namely the CLND Act.
Is Indian law is in conformity with CSC and what are objections?
Explanation of the Government
Strict absolute legal liability to the operator, the limitations of the liability in amount and time, liability
cover by insurance or financial security, definitions of nuclear installation, damage, etc. In fact, the CLND
Act provides the basis for India joining an appropriate international liability regime such as the CSC.
Sole liability of the operator and no fault liability

Section 4(1) provides that the Operator of the nuclear installation shall be liable for nuclear damage
caused by nuclear incident.
Further, Section 4(4) provides that the liability of the Operator of the nuclear installation shall be strict
and shall be based on the principle of no fault liability. (Absolute
legal responsibility for an injury that can be imposed on the wrongdoer without proof of carelessness or f
ault)
Section 8(1) provides that the Operator shall before he begins operation of his nuclear installation, take
out insurance policy or such further financial security covering his liability. All these provisions along with
the long title of the Act are clear and ensure that the liability is strict, and channeled to the Operator
through a no fault liability regime.
Objections of the suppliers
Section 17 of the Act provides that the operator of the nuclear installation, after paying the
compensation for nuclear damage in accordance with section 6, shall have the right to recourse where
1. Such right is expressly provided for in a contract in writing
2. The nuclear incident has resulted as a consequence of an act of supplier or his employee, which includes
supply of equipment or material with patent or latent defects or sub-standard services
3. The nuclear incident has resulted from the act of commission or omission of an individual done with the
intent to cause nuclear damage.
Section 46 of CLND brings in the suppliers under the ambit of other laws in India other than CLND.
Final solution
February Page 12
Final solution
India Nuclear Insurance Pool as a part of the overall risk-management scheme for liability The India
Nuclear Insurance Pool is a risk transfer mechanism formed by GIC Re and 4 other PSUs who
will together contribute a capacity of Rs 750 Crores out of a total of Rs 1500 Crores. The balance
capacity will be contributed by the Government on a tapering basis. The pool will cover the risks
of the liability of the nuclear operator under Section 6(2) of the CLND Act and of the suppliers
under Section 17 of the Act.
Finally, how the liability is met now?
CLND Act presently prescribes that the maximum amount of liability in respect of each nuclear incident
shall be the rupee equivalent of three hundred million Special Drawing Rights (SDRs).
In case the total liability exceeds Rs 1500 Crores, as per CLND Act, this gap up to 300 mn SDR will be
bridged by the Central Government. Beyond this, India will be able to access international funds under
the CSC once it is a party to that Convention.
How about section 17 and 46?
Government explanation
Section 17 states that the operator shall have a right of recourse. While it provides a substantive right to
the operator, it is not a mandatory but an enabling provision. In other words it permits but does not
require an operator to include in the contract or exercise a right of recourse.
Section 46 The CLND Act channels all legal liability for nuclear damage exclusively to the
operator and Section 46 does not provide a basis for bringing claims for compensation for
nuclear damage under other Acts. That this section applies exclusively to the operator and does
not extend to the supplier.
Visit the following link to get greater clarity.
http://www.mea.gov.in/press-releases.htm?
dtl/24766/Frequently_Asked_Questions_and_Answers_on_Civil_Liability_for_Nuclear_Damage_Act_
2010_and_related_issues
Question of the day

Do you think India ratifying CSC is a conclusive step in addressing of issues related to civil nuclear liability
in India? Is India able to achieve a balance? Critically analyze.
February Page 13
8 Feb
05 July 2016
20:42
Israel Palestine issue

Todays article in Hindu
Violent attacks of young Palestinians are increasing in Gaza and west bank. These are mainly a reaction to
expansion of Jewish settlements in west bank, East Jerusalem. This is often described as Third intifada.
Most of this post Oslo generation see PLO as a failure and are looking for alternatives to change the
status quo. Though Israel Government says there wont be any peace as long as violence continues, from
Palestinian perspective only violence has led to concessions from Israel.
Situation today
Escalation of violence in west bank and east Jerusalem.

Gaza blockade is still continuing
Jewish settlements are increasing in west bank. Israel established check points all over west bank to
protect the settlements. A wall separating west bank from rest of Israel already exists.
Jerusalem including east Jerusalem is claimed by Israel as its Territory.
Fateh is the governing body in the west bank and Hamas in Gaza. Mohd Abbas bid to gain UN recognition
to Palestinian state did not succeed.
Understand these events in History Intifada
The term intifada properly translates as shaking off and in this literal sense the first two uprisings in
1987-1993 and 2000-2003.
The first outbreak was known as the war of the stones Palestinians throwing rocks against the
Israeli army and police in daily clashes. 2 nd intifada was different in character involving many more
pitched gun battles, suicide bombing and terrorist activities
The mass support from Palestinians across towns and villages as well as across social divisions is the
distinctive characteristic of an intifada.
What happened after intifada ?
First intifada has led to the limited autonomy to the Palestinians.
After second Intifada, Israel announced Gaza disengagement plan.
Gaza disengagement plan based on a news article in Washington post, 2003
In announcing the Disengagement plan in December 2003, Prime Minister Ariel Sharon said the
withdrawal was to increase security of residents of Israel, relieve pressure on the Israeli Defense Forces
(IDF) and reduce friction between Israelis and Palestinians. Hamas, the Islamic Resistance Movement,
claims that the withdrawal is the result of violent Palestinian resistance to Israeli occupation.
What is the withdrawal plan ?
Tens of thousands of Israeli troops will oversee the evacuation of the settlers from 21 different
communities in Gaza and four smaller settlements in the West Bank. They will assist settlers with moving
their belongings as well. settlers who have not voluntarily left will be forcibly removed and may lose
personal property, according to IDF commanders. Israeli soldiers will then demolish settlers homes.
What will happen after the evacuation ?

The Palestinian National Authority (PNA) will administer Gaza while Israel will continue to control its
borders, coastline and airspace. The biggest change for Palestinians will be that the tight travel
restrictions that Israel has imposed within the territory will be lifted.
Oslo Accords
Rabin and Arafat signed the Accords on the White House lawn in September 1993.
The negotiators emerged from the Oslo woods with a Declaration of Principles, or the Oslo Accords.
They included:
Israel recognized the PLO as Palestines official representative

The PLO renounced the use of violence
The PLO recognized Israels right to exist
Both agreed to Palestinian self-rule in Gaza and the Jericho area of the West Bank by 2000
A five-year interim period would facilitate further Israeli withdrawals from other, unspecified areas of the
West Bank
Derailment
The PLO moved to validate its renunciation of violence with a change of organization and name. In 1994
the PLO became the Palestinian national authority, or simply the PA Palestinian Authority. Israel
also began giving up territory in Gaza and the West Bank.
But in 1995, an Israeli radical, angry over the Oslo Accords, assassinated Rabin. Palestinian
rejectionists many of them refugees in neighboring Arab countries who thought Arafat had
betrayed them began attacks on Israel.
Hezbollah, operating out of southern Lebanon, began a series of attacks against Israel. Those culminated
in the 2006 Israeli-Hezbollah War.
After Hamas winning the election in Gaza, it led to Gaza blockade.
February Page 14
TPP Trans-Pacific Partnership

TPP, the pact could by 2030 help boost the overall GDP of member countries by 1.1 percent
Lessons to India
As multi trade engagements are increasing, India shall build a strong specialized cadre of trade analysts to
take forward Indian interests.
India has to focus on setting house in order and creation of a common domestic market by enacting GST
and reforming other tax laws.
It may lead to trade diversion for few of the products.
RTE Act Schooling lessons to India

Low fee Private school education is qualitatively superior and is producing higher learning outcomes at a
lesser cost compared to their Government schools.
State Governments recent initiative to crackdown on them for lack of infrastructure will deprive the poor
of the only available educational alternative.
In this context, following reforms are suggested
A right to quality education need to be enacted

Attention should be given to the learning outcomes and financial incentives shall be linked to the learning
outcomes
Parents shall be given a space in the matters related to governing of schools
Teacher training has to be emphasized to improve their subject matter knowledge.
Prejudice Taking Pride in Prejudice

In India prejudice against color, race is deep seated and it flows from the complete ignorance about the
people perceived to be different and false stereotypes constructed through false propaganda created by
advt, media etc.
India to celebrate its diversity shall acknowledge the difference and it shall accept the existence of racial
discrimination.
Enactment of equality law can be a way forward

Fertilizer Industry best for direct cash transfer
Factories are receiving the subsidy now and it is a cumbersome process and distorting the markets. Direct
cash transfers to the beneficiaries can improve the situation.
UREA price need to be increased. Product being cheap there is an excessive use of fertilizer and is
distorting the environmental balance.
India like Brazil shall shift to the cheaper alternative like single super phosphate in the place of DAP for
phosphate addition.
Siachen
India and Pakistan are guarding siachen since 1984 and climate is the biggest enemy. It got worsened due
February Page 15
India and Pakistan are guarding siachen since 1984 and climate is the biggest enemy. It got worsened due
to climate change.
There are proposals to convert it in to a peace park.
Question of the day

Universalization of primary education in India need a coherent policy centered on teacher accountability
and quality education. Analyze in special reference to the implementation of Right to education act
February Page 16
9 Feb
05 July 2016
20:43
Corruption [ref link]

Permissions from Government to initiate an investigation and prosecution
Before 1977 Government of India Permission of Government of India was necessary to initiate
any preliminary enquiry about the rank of joint secretary.
1977 Supreme court declared it as null and void as it violates the right to equality.
As on today, no prior permission is necessary for CBI to start a preliminary enquiry on any central
Government of any rank. But, ultimate power of sanction to prosecute a government official in a court of
law rests with the Government.
At present, a former public servant can be prosecuted for corruption without any sanction from the
Government.
An amendment to Prevention of corruption act is aimed at
1. Prior sanction for prosecution will also be extended to retired public officials.
2. A 3 month deadline to make a decision on issue of prosecution.
Recently, Tamil Nadu Government gave an order mandating prior permission of the Government for an
inquiry in to corruption charges against any state public official. It can weaken the powers of anticorruption agencies and fight against corruption.
Poverty and Terrorism [ref link]

The factors that are breeding the terror factories in Pakistan are more related to poverty, illiteracy rather
than strong ideologies. The points we can draw from the terrorists India caught are
1. Terrorism breeds in poverty
2. Money is the major motivational factor
3. Misinterpreted Islamic fervor which is far from ideological motivation
Cosmopolitan Cities Benguluru [ref link]

A cosmopolitan city shall be able to assimilate different cultures in to its way life. This cultural pluralism
shall percolate deep down beyond the economic realities.
In India majority of Indian cities are disfigured by the combats over indigeneity, language nationalism,
communal antagonism and sons of the soil sentiments for employability. All these are strong reasons to
mobilize people for votes.
Siachen [ref link]

Climate kills more number of soldiers on Siachen glacier than enemy. This situation is worsening with
climate change. It is a fact for both the sides i.e., India and Pakistan.
Demilitarization of the glacier, redeployment of forces to reduce the conflict, shall be an agenda for both
the nations.
Siachen by any standard a low hanging fruit in the bilateral issues to build trust and is definitely doable as
it holds a win win situation for both the nations.

Abu Dhabi Prince Visit [ref link]
Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahayan Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi is on a visit to India. Cyber
February Page 17
Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahayan Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi is on a visit to India. Cyber
security, air space, nuclear cooperation are the major items on agenda.
North Koran American Deployment [ref link]

After North Korea test fired he missile, USA-South Korea initiated a dialogue on installation of THAAD
Terminal high altitude area defense system that comprises advanced USA anti-missile defense
batteries.
China, Russia expressed their displeasure as it may disturb the strategic balance in the region and is
against to their respective interests.
No Differential Rates [ref link]

TRAI ruled out the differential pricing for different levels of service upholding the net neutrality.
Mumbai Terror Attacks [ref link]

David Headley emphasized the role of Pakistani establishment Military, ISI and LeT, JuD in planning
the Mumbai terror attacks
February Page 18
10 Feb
05 July 2016
20:44
Issue Net Neutrality Recent TRAI decision

Todays articles Related
Internet power to the people [ref link]

Adhering to basics and freedom [ref link]
Adopt open source for connectivity TRAI [ref link]
The recent Regulations issued by TRAI upheld the net neutrality by barring differential pricing and Zero
rating of services. In spite of millions of advertisement expenditure by Facebook to promote its free
basics in the guise of universalizing the access to internet, TRAI decision will upkeep the internet as a
platform to innovate. It will mitigate against the powerful internet monopolies like Google, Facebook to
control the future of the internet.
The major questions rose and lessons learnt include
People in India with their limited knowledge of internet are able to understand the consequences of
limited internet free basics is offering for. Most of the net neutrality movement is taken up by the young
entrepreneurs against a multi-billion dollar company Facebook.
A level playing field is created and Telcos cannot act as gate keepers to prescribe the access to content
user prefers for.
Facebooks use/misuse of its platform and its control over its users to bend the policy has poses many
sovereignty questions.
On the question, should regulatory policies be crafted to prevent harm ex ante or be applied only
after harm has been established? For this, TRAI position, crafting the right policies for the
internet would distort the basic character of the internet itself can set an example for all the
developing countries facing a similar challenge.
Vocabulary to carry forward to the exam
Differential pricing of data

Zero rating of services
Access to the internet Internet haves and have nots
Platform monopolies
Internet as an open platform
Opinions to think Essential for a good closure of your answer
Rights and duties of platform monopolies to their users need to be specified.

Not crafting right policies for internet will distort the basic character of internet itself
Internet has a unique power the ability of a consumer to be a creator of the content
If Telcos are the gate keepers of the internet, only biggest corporations will survive.
India shall bridge the digital divide, but compromising the basic ideals of the internet is not the way to do
it.
The Supreme Court must end Partisan federalism [ref link]

Vocabulary to carry forward to the exam
1. Partisan federalism
2. Cooperative federalism
Judgements to carry forward to the exam
1. SR Bommai vs Union of India, Rameshwar Prasad vs Union of India (Article 356)
2. BP Singhal vs union of India (removal of Governor)
Opinions to think
1. Judiciary shall develop neutral principles of constitutional law that are general in content and equal in
applicability.
February Page 19
applicability.
It means Constitutional rules must offer the reasons beyond the immediate result in the case.
Court must apply these rules irrespective of the party before it.
1. If cooperative federalism to arise misuse of Governors office in controlling the state governments shall
end.
Notes
Political parties in power at the Centre use the office of the governor to control the opposition governed
states. This differential application of principle to differential states can be expressed as partisan
federalism.
In this context, Judiciary shall strongly enforce the neutral constitutional principles to maintain the spirit
of the constitution and to protect the sanctity of constitutional offices. In such a case cooperative
federalism will define the Centre state relations.
Supreme court of India in B.P Singhal vs Union of India already held that Governor of a state could only be
removed for reasons such as Physical, mental disability, corruption and behavior unbecoming of a high
constitutional office and not at the discretion of the Centre. It is to ensure the independence and
constitutionality of the office.
Present NDA Government irrespective of the above continued the previous tradition of changing the
governors of different states with a change in Government.
In recent Arunachal Pradesh crisis, role of the governor in state and his powers to recommend imposition
of Presidents rule under Article 356 have come to question again.
Art 174 of the constitution says that Governor may summon the house of legislature of the state to meet
at such time and place as he thinks fit. But, this power needs to be exercised on the aid and advice of
Council of Ministers.
Governor Rajkhowas action to call for a house for session, prescribing agenda for the house,
recommending for imposition of Presidents rule are not in the spirit of cooperative federalism.
Supreme Court of India in SR Bommai vs Union of India case clarified that floor test is the only valid
manner by which confidence of the house to the Government of the day can be ascertained.
In this context, Judiciary shall develop the general and equal principles for universal applicability.
Time for Pharma course correction [ref link]

In India, most of the health care expenditure involves an out of pocket expenditure as the health
insurance is not yet penetrated in India.
India is also dependent on the import of many lifesaving drugs.
Government s removal customs duty exemptions to these lifesaving drugs and product patents in India
can significantly raise the out of pocket expenditure and can make Health care costly to the people.
In this context, Indian Pharma sector shall gear up to the challenge with grater expenditure on research
and Government shall support them. Recent Government decision to cut the research expenditure is not
a step in the right direction.

Obama launches Cyber Security action plan [ref link]
The new cyber security action plan of the USA Government is to respond to the growing epidemic of data
theft and cyber-attacks on networks. Around $19bn is expected to spend for cyber security.
Gates foundation on centers radar [ref link]

February Page 20
Agencies and laws to remember

IATI international aid transparency initiative
Global Justice now
FCRA Foreign contribution regulation act
An international agency Global Justice now accuses Bill and Melinda gates foundation aid work benefiting
the multinational pharma companies and acting as a marketing office for USA and Europe based vaccine
companies.
Its two major programs Global fund to fight AIDS, TB, Malaria and GAVI alliance are questioned.
However, Bill and Melinda gates foundation clarified that it follows all the International aid transparency
initiative standards.
FCRA and foundation Bill and Melinda gates foundation is not registered under FCRA and it
operates as a liaison office under FEMA approved by RBI. Since it is not registered under FCRA,
funding of NGOS by the foundation is not under the control of Ministry of Home affairs. Ministry is
looking to close this loop hole.
Women and profits [ref link]

The Peterson institute for international economics research concludes that if women executives increase
in office (gender diversity) will increase the profitability of the company.
Question of the day

India will bridge the digital divide, but compromising the basic ideals of the internet is not the way to do
it. Discuss the above statement in the light of recent happenings
February Page 21
11 Feb
05 July 2016
20:44
Siachen Conflict [ref link]

Origin
Siachen dispute is the direct result of the ambiguity that exists after Karachi ceasefire in 1949. It did not
delineate the boundary after NJ 9842 and declared it as henceforth north.
India and Pakistan since than differently interpreted henceforth north India interprets as a north
along saltoro ridge to Indira col and Pakistan interprets it as north till karakoram pass.
Pakistan ceding shaksgam valley to china has furthered complicated the issues. India sees Siachen as a
strategic ground to launch an offensive against Pakistan and China. On defensive side, If Pakistan
occupies Siachen, it can be used by Pakistan and China to launch an attack on Leh in Kashmir.
Many of the experts dismiss these are misplaced apprehensions
What are the positions of India and Pakistan on demilitarization ?
New Delhi insists that the present ground positions on the Saltoro ridge should be demarcated and
authenticated on a map before any demilitarization could be conducted. India has therefore insisted that
joint demarcation of the Actual Ground Position Line (AGPL) on the ground as well as the map should be
the first step to be followed by a joint verification agreement and redeployment of forces to mutually
agreed positions.
Pakistan has traditionally objected to it arguing that: a) India is the occupying party in Siachen and it
should unconditionally withdraw and the pre-1984 status quo should be maintained; Instead of Indias
February Page 22
should unconditionally withdraw and the pre-1984 status quo should be maintained; Instead of Indias
proposal of demarcation first and demilitarization later, Pakistan says that demilitarization of the region,
withdrawal of forces and authentication proceed simultaneously.
Solution
Prime Minister Man Mohan Singh proposed to make Siachen a peace park.
Growth data [ref link]

CSO projected a growth of 7.6% at constant prices this fiscal year. It is not in alignment with Gross value
added growth projections., pace of economic expansion, slackening of agricultural and industrial growth,
dampening of exports.
So, Data of the Government shall send right signals for comprehensive understanding and credibility of
official statistics need to be improved.
Net Neutrality [ref link]

It essentially brought two new dimensions on public policy front
Public consultation and stake holder involvement.

Effective participation of the people to define their interest.
War against Islamic State [ref link]

Global war on terror will be Indian war too when the terrorists who wage war on India are also seen as
threats to the countries which seek Indias support.

IMD [ref link]
For the first time, IMD will be giving a summer forecast of heat represented by a color coding in spells of
five days. It helps many industries refrigerator, air conditioning, ice cream and other business.
India Abu Dhabi [ref link]

Crown prince of Abu dhabi sheik Mohammed bin Zayed al Nahayan is on a visit to India and anti terror
cooperation, cyber security and nuclear cooperation is on agenda.
India is eyeing on the huge soverign fund of Abu Dhabi to the worth of $800bn.
Abu Dhabi oil company adnoc agreed to store its crude oil in Indias strategic storage.
Intellectual property index [ref link]

It is produced by the Global intellectual property center on 30 critical criteria required for innovation.
India is placed on 37th rank among 38 countries, way below among the BRICS countries.
Poor enforcement and provisions like compulsory licensing are the major reasons.
Compulsory licensing
Compulsory Licensing in India
Compulsory licensing is a vexed issue. There is an inherent tussle between the rights of patent holders
and grant of compulsory licensing. On conclusion of the GATT Uruguay Round in 1994, regulation of
intellectual property laws was introduced in the trade law.
A compulsory license can be defined as an authorization given by the Government to a person for the
exploitation of a patent without the consent of the patent holder. This obviously works against the
interest of the patent holder but compulsory licenses are considered as a necessity in certain cases like
cases of national emergency, health crisis and like. Even TRIPS allows flexibilities in the form of
compulsory licenses on the fulfillment of certain prerequisite conditions. Indian Patent Act has many
sections devoted to the grant of compulsory licenses
February Page 23
Question of the day

Indias patent protection is outside the international best practices. It has to strengthen its Intellectual
property regime to create an innovation ecosystem. Discuss in the light of controversies in Pharma and IT
industry ?
February Page 24
12 Feb
05 July 2016
20:45
Why 7 .6% growth is hard to square [ref link]

Indian CSO recently announced the growth projections to the financial year at 7.6%. It makes India the
fastest growing economy in the world. But, there is lot of skepticism from economists about the reliability
of data and they attribute it largely to the change in the way GDP is calculated in India.
India incorporated to United Nations system of National accounts and adopted a new series of national
accounts statistics.
The major changes are
Change in base year The new base year is 2011-12

Change Institutional composition The private corporate sectors share in the GDP has expanded
to 34% from 23% and household sector share shrunk from 56% to 45% in the new series.
Corporate sector information is collected from the MCA 21 database and it took the output of million
plus private sector entities in to consideration. It failed to understand that in India many of the
companies are created for accounting and tax evasion purposes. This also got in to the calculation of
GDP.
So, the growth projections are due to changes in methodology and so other available data cannot
complement it.
Education reform needed in Kerala [ref link.

Higher education need an overhaul and the state has limited financial resources or abilities to do the
same. Funds from the Centre to the states under Rashtriya Uchchatar siksha Yojana did not arrive. In this
context, private investment is essential to upgrade the universities.
International collaboration and competition can lead to to quality and peer learning. It makes the
universities centers of excellence. So, global educators meet kind of initiatives need to be taken forward.
Indias digital transformation [ref link]

The world development report says that digital technologies are widespread across the world but their
digital dividends are not equal. The reasons include
1. Digital access divide
2. Digital capability divide
3. Overall business climate regulatory environment
India has critical gaps on the above three to achieve a digital transformation.

Scientists spot elusive space-time ripples [ref link]
The highly elusive gravitational waves are finally detected by LIGO laser interferometer gravitational
wave observatory)
Gravitational waves are first depicted by Einstein in hid theory of relativity.
Banks balance sheet clean-up imperative for growth, says Raghuram Rajan [ref link]
Asset quality review taken up by RBI . It said cleaning of bank balance sheets will help spur economic
growth and improve the lenders profitability.
The stressed assets (NPA + restructured assets) of the banks increased to 11.3% form 9.2% in 2013.
February Page 25
The stressed assets (NPA + restructured assets) of the banks increased to 11.3% form 9.2% in 2013.
TERIs disgraceful appointment [ref link]

RK pachuris appointment as Ex officio vice chairman of TERI goes against to the spirit of the sexual
harassment of women at the workplace (prevention, prohibition and redressal) act 2013.
Russians raise stakes in Syria [ref link]

Russian military involvement in Syria in support of the president Assad has strengthened his position.
Government forces are able to control the majority of the cities and it substantially decreased the
bargaining power of United States in the peace process.
Question of the day

Indian GDP growth estimates are seriously contended. Critically analyze the changes in GDP estimate and
their impact on the growth rate ?
February Page 26
13 Feb
05 July 2016
20:46
The Presidential Prerogative

Office of the Governor is highly controversial for their role in interference in administration and misuse of
Art 356 in imposition of presidents rule. They are often described as agents of Centre. The reasons
include
Appointment of governor Every time Government at the Centre changes governors who share
the political loyalties are appointed to the states.
Appointment of chief minister Misuse of the office of the governor for the advantage of the party
at the Centre appeared in the first elections itself. In 1952, Governor Sri Prakasa called C.
Rajagopalachaari to form the Government after nominating him to madras legislative council.
Misuse of Art 356 It started with the dismissal of Namboodripad Government in Kerala and
widely used during the Indira Gandhi and Janata Government. Indira Gandhi Years between
1996 and 1977 presidents rule was imposed 39 times in different states. Janata Government
also dismissed the congress Governments in 9 states.
Recommendations
Sarkaria commission Sarkaria Commission Report on Centre-State relations, 1988, which
recommended that Article 356 must be used very sparingly, in extreme cases, as a measure of
last resort, when all the other alternatives fail to prevent or rectify a breakdown of constitutional
machinery in the state
S.R.Bommai vs Union of India Supreme Court laid down tight guidelines for imposing Presidents
rule.
Role of president United front, NDA Governments also recommended for a president rule in UP
and Bihar respectively. Governor K R Narayanan refused it and said A pertinent point arises,
viz., that over the period of the slide, remedial action in terms of constitutional obligation ought to
have been taken to arrest the decline.
Opinion
1. Non party persons need to be appointed to the Governors office. As Prime minister Modi said Governors
shall be fair and be seen to be fair.
Banks ultimately need autonomy

Autonomy to the banks helps in fixing the responsibility. Over regulation creates an atmosphere of blame
game. In this context, Indian banking structure is facing the challenges of stressed assets. It got caught in
the cobweb of poor credit appraisal to political interference and mismanagement by borrowers.
Banks tried to cover them up in the account books and RBI Governor Raghuram Rajans action to uncover
them gave the hard facts. It further led to declining profitability and poor credit disbursal.
Words to remember
Arms length distance

Functional autonomy
Gravitational waves
Watch this short 3 mins. video and youll know all about it and download the image for future reference.
February Page 27
Focus Points
A ripple in the fabric of Space and Time

Its a completely new way of studying the Universe
Anytime we discover new ways to study Universe, we discover things that we didnt expect
Its really about new things that we didnt know existed
Its another dimension in physics and learning about it leads to new innovations

Black money
Nationwide crackdown on black money is leading to a steady increase in detection of undisclosed income
and it has jumped 15.5 times in five years.
UAE calls for more reforms in India

India was expecting huge funds for its infrastructure projects from the UAE sovereign wealth
fund. Visiting crown prince showed no interest citing complex regulatory business environment.
JNU Govt. acts tough, JNU student leader charged with sedition
Section 124A of IPC was imposed on JNU students who raised anti India slogans in a recent rally.
Question of the day

Do you think President of India can a play an effective role to avoid the misuse of Art 356. Support your
statement with Examples ?
February Page 28
15 Feb
05 July 2016
20:47
Why our Universities are in ferment

Think on the following opinions and views
Universities shall be the place for Dissent and debate. They shall be Space of learning, lively debate,
critical thinking and political understanding of structural injustice in the country and they shall be agents
of the social transformation.
Freedom of expression is integral to democracy and democratization process. Tolerance can only nurture
the same.
State overreach on the campus

Section 124 A of IPC defines sedition as incitement of any form of hatred or contempt or disaffection
towards the government. It will lead to a minimum of 3 years and a maximum of life imprisonment with
or without fine. Here in the interpretation of law, does the communication of hatred or contempt or
disaffection itself is sufficient to file the charges of sedition or it shall lead to incitement to violence is
under question.
Supreme Court of India in kedarnath vs state of Bihar held that a person can be charged with sedition
only if there is incitement to violence in his speech or writing or an intention to create disorder.
The major criticism of sedition charges is, it is becoming the instrument of the state to curtail the
freedom of speech, dissent guaranteed under Art 19(1) (a) of the constitution.
The line between dissent and treason is thin and an anti-state action cannot be adjudged as an antinational action.
Economic Empowerment of Women

There is a bidirectional relationship between economic development and women empowerment.
Economic opportunities are the most enabling elements for the women from oppression, violence and
powerlessness. It makes a difference to the gender relations and gender roles.
Women and their ability to organize also gave them an escape from various types of bondage, exclusion
and exploitation.
Most of the women work in India is unaccounted for and invisible. They bring value to agriculture, food
production and many other sectors in India.
War and Peace in Syria

Munich agreement An agreement is reached between USA and Russia to end the hostilities in
Syria in a week. Russian intervention has hanged the ground realities and Assad regime gained
significantly against US, Turkey, Saudi supported rebels.
The common ground between US and Russia is the fight against Islamic State. The meeting ground can
come close together if USA and Russia can become warring parties and stakeholders to the table of
discussion.

High speed Rail High speed railways in India: success will ride on the details
High speed rail initial cost is exorbitantly high and it increases with increase in the expected speed of the
movement. It is significantly high to lay track to cover the speeds greater than 250 km. so, across the
world high speed rail is successful across the highly active economic and high density corridors.
Along with this, Environmental degradation, dislocation of the people, factors of cost, and impact on the
alternative modes available shall be the further focus of understanding.
Economic reforms
February Page 29
Economic reforms
Jaitley hints at cutting equity in banks, series of reform
Banking sector is reeling under decreasing asset quality. In this context, dilution of stakes of the state in
PSU banks and zero interference by the Government, professional management and autonomy to the
boards are the steps necessary.
At the same time realizing financial inclusion, geographical reach of banking sector is also very critical. It
makes PSU banks critical and necessary.
Require firm action on retrospective tax issues

NDA budget agenda in the past two years was centered on reform agenda. Stable and predictable tax
environment will allow for a change.
Question of the day

Dissent and treason are different. India has many penal provisions that provide for state overreach on
freedom of expression. It is the time to review them and entrench our democratic roots
February Page 30
16 Feb
05 July 2016
20:48
Banking Sector
1. Owning without interfering
Indian banking sector is through a crisis phase as its stressed assets are mounting high. In this context,
governmental minimal interference and responsible functioning of the banks is the way out. The
challenge is how Government shall achieve the balance between its social objectives of financial inclusion
and organizational professionalism.
It can be done by converting as an investor rather than as an owner of the bank. Its shares of all the
banks can be made in to an independent, professionally managed company.
2. No bailout with taxpayer money
Indian big businesses are criticized by the RBI Raghuram Rajan as practicing the risk less capitalism. They
benefit from the profits of good times and throw the debts on the banks during bad times. It has led to
repeated bail out of various sectors, corporate debt restructuring and increase in the stressed assets of
the banks. Another reason is the early death to the developmental financial institutions in India. On the
other hand at the same time across the world, Germany, japan, Brazil, developmental institutions and
their role in the long term financing has increased significantly.
It also represents a nexus between business, banks, and auditors. So, a strong legal and institutional
mechanisms shall be put in place to control willful defaulters. Till then, corporate debt restructuring,
write offs of the banks with tax payers money shall be kept on hold.
Universities
What is a university?
University is a critical space for engagement and shall be a space to ask all important questions and to
develop reasoned arguments.
Vice chancellor of the university shall function as a trustee to protect the free space rather than an agent
of Government to act as watchdog on the student.
Repressive clampdown on the universities by any measure will lead to untoward consequences in wider
public life. Government shall be cautious in interfering with the affairs of the universities.
Sedition Law Sedition and the Government

Sedition law a colonial legacy was a strong instrument in the hands of colonial rulers to
suppress the independence movement and after independence it is been used by the
Governments of the day to suppress dissent and free expression in the name of disaffection
towards the Government.
Gandhiji to Pandit Nehru everyone are the victims of this law and they believed it is fundamentally anticonstitutional. In spite of its misuse, its continuance in the legal books in the name of protection of public
order need a critical review.
Legal Journey
The provision, as it reads today after some amendments, defines sedition as any action whether by
words, signs or visible representation which brings or attempts to bring into hatred or
contempt, or excites or attempts to excite disaffection towards the Government established by
law in India.
Justice Sir Maurice Gwyer in 1942 said that there shall be link between words uttered and actual threat of
February Page 31
Justice Sir Maurice Gwyer in 1942 said that there shall be link between words uttered and actual threat of
violence for maintaining a prosecution of sedition. Supreme court of India In Kedarnath Singh vs state of
Bihar took the similar line

RTI Supreme Court
SC refuses to disclose data on pending verdict.
Supreme Court in Anil Rai vs state of Bihar ruled that confidence of the litigants in the results of litigation
is shaken if there is an unreasonable delay in rendering a judgement after reserving the same. In line with
above judgement CIC had directed Supreme court to maintain its record in such a manner that RTI
applicants can be informed of the number of its reserved judgements.
Online movement against Censorship

Net neutrality argument showed the way how public consultation shall be organized on important policy
issues and what participation of stake holders can do for the same. In the same spirit, netizens are
sending their recommendations to Shyam Benegal committee on film censoring
February Page 32
17 Feb
05 July 2016
20:48
Education JNU crisis

What is anti-national?
German historian Arthur Rosenberg in his book, fascism as a mass refers to two conditions that can lead
to the rise of fascism. They include
Rise of right wing nationalism

Active collaboration between the state and identitarian storm troopers.
Growth of right wing in India, neo liberalism on the other side, Government giving a free rein to selfcertified nationalists is creating a wave of fear. Everyone who questions the state action is considered
anti national and extraordinary powers are used to silence their voices.
JNU, and the idea of India
As a public university it supplied a critical human resources to the country.

In the midst of emergency, it is a space for active political and social debate. It cultivates dissent as a
virtue and it has a well networked alumni.
Time and again JNU stood for the idea of an India that is inclusive, anti-discriminatory, gender just,
creative, environmentally sustainable, cosmopolitan and socially redistributive. It is an incubator for
nation building.
Interdisciplinary understanding of issues is nurtured to develop wider perspectives, to introduce to new
ideas, to prepare the people for competition and gave the students necessary self-confidence.
Such an university is centered around virtues and values of a India as a nation need to be given its space
to function autonomously.
Making cities clean and sustainable

Scientific Solid waste disposal, sewage treatment capacity in Indian cities is around 63% and 20%
respectively. In this context, Centres decision to ask fertilizer companies to sell the municipal compost,
creating food gardens is a welcome sign. Citizens shall do their part by properly segregating their waste at
home.
Today, Swachh Bharat cess which can bring in more finances towards urban management. But, in reality
the major challenge is planning.
The curious case of Justice Karnan

The case of Karnan clearly exposes the limitation of collegium system of appointments, inadequacy of
remedial measures to discipline an erring judge and misuse of the provisions of legal protections given to
Scheduled cates and Scheduled Tribes.
Can India beat this slowdown?

Indias growth phase was centered on private investment, private consumption, Government
expenditure and net exports. But, the challenges of this growth process are it is sectorally unequal and
did not create sufficient jobs.
Surprisingly, rise in oil prices led to the recession in 2008 and today, weakening of the demand is majorly
due to fall in oil prices. But, it provided a unique advantage to India by reducing its current account
deficit. On the other hand, fall in exports, investment flows is a major challenge a head.
In todays scenario, Government shall create aggregate demand in the economy by spending on long
term infrastructure and areas of research.

February Page 33

GMO-free corn imports, a tough ask
Today, the corn grown mostly is GM crop and contamination of supply chain made it almost impossible to
have a totally GM free corn India wan to import.
Question of the day

University education has a central role in the growth of intellectuality of an individual. In this context,
analyze the challenges to the higher education and spirit of critical thinking, research in Indian
universities.
February Page 34
18 Feb
05 July 2016
20:49
Fall guy for Americas follies

Boutros Boutros-Ghali, the first African to head the United Nations has passed away recently.
He chaired the UN as secretary general during the most difficult times of the worlds That is during
90s when the world is turning uni polar and third world countries were reigning in debt crises.
His major challenge was to maintain the independence of UN from American hegemony.
During his tenure UN produced Agenda for peace and agenda for development in which it has argued for
tackling of the forces of instability from the roots. It further argued impoverishment created the
conditions for insecurity.
His tenure also saw the worst humanitarian crisis in Rwanda and Somalia. (Please watch hotel in Rwanda
movie to understand the Rwandan crisis).
Indian Nepal ties Restoring goodwill in India-Nepal ties
India Nepal ties are the victim of domestic politics in Nepal, Nepali nationalism centered on the
anti-Indianism, repeated use of China Card by the Nepal and recent constitutional crisis in Nepal
has added further fuel to it. Nepal crisis is also seen as a set back to the Prime Minister Modis
Neighborhood first policy.
India is often criticized an excessive involvement in the affairs of Nepal and the partnership need to be
built on principles of equality, mutual respect and benefit.
Prime minister KP sharma Oli s visit is an opportunity for India and Nepal to set the relations in order.
Improvement in domestic political environment in Nepal and recent steps to arrange a political
committee for provincial demarcation, considerations to the concerns of Madhesis, revival of flow of
goods from India has created necessary good will. Prime minister in Nepal is acting a s a unifying figure.
By keeping the flow of promises made on post-earth quake reconstruction by India, taking forward the
infrastructure projects can be a way forward to build the goodwill.
Savings
Recently, Government has decreased the interest rates on short term small savings schemes and kept
them intact on long term savings schemes.
Interest rates on the small savings scheme significantly effects the deposit mobilization of banks and it
has cyclical effects. It is the one of the reason why banks were unable to transfer the rate reduction by
RBI. It is impacting the realization of monetary policy outcomes. By this step, the cost structure of the
economy is expected to come down and is a welcome sign.
Mumbai terror The things Headley left unsaid

The recent deposition of Mr Headley before Mumbai court has offered nothing new and it exposes
certain lapses in the global fight against the terror.
1. Lack of honest collaboration and cooperation at the level of intelligence agencies.
2. The role played by the Afghan Jihadi movement as an origin point to the existing terrorism and Pakistans
share in it is totally ignored.

South China Sea
February Page 35
South China Sea

China has deployed the surface to air missile defense systems in South china sea woody island in the
disputed paracel Island.
U.S. had cyber-attack plans for Irans Fordo

USA has planned a cyber-attack on the Iran nuclear facility at Fordo to stop the functioning of centrifuges
in the code name Nitrozeus.
February Page 36
19 Feb
05 July 2016
20:51
Gay rights
Information from the past
Delhi High court in 2009 judgement allowed consensual sex between same sex adults. It confined the law
only to the non-consensual, penile, non vaginal sex and sex acts by adults with minors.
context.
1. It does not criminalize a sexual orientation or a community but merely identifies certain acts as offences.
Counter argument separation of a person and his acts is not possible. Sec 377 is misused to
harass and extort the homosexuals. It denies the only form of sexual intercourse available to the
class of LGBT persons.
2. Supreme Court observed that there have been only 200 prosecutions over 150 years.
Counter argument Fundamental rights to minorities are not determined by the numerical factors.
They are available to all the individuals.
3. In 2014 NALSA judgement Supreme Court affirmed the fundamental rights of and freedoms of third
gender. Equalities and freedoms cannot be fully functional with simultaneous criminalization of their
sexual function.
4. It is always easy to fight the social prejudice when law is on their side. Supreme court has left the decision
on the issue to the parliament.
5. Medically, DSM IV diagnostic and statistical manual IV, ICD International classification of
diseases no more identify homosexuality as a disease and considers it as a behaviour of a
natural order. Non recognition of their sexuality can cause many mental health problems.
Other arguments
It is making them vulnerable to exploitation and spread of HIV and other diseases.
Limits of Indian exceptionalism
India and Nepal share an open border and strong cultural relations. Recent bitterness related to blockade
shall be seen as an exception and both the countries shall work towards the promotion of interests of
each other.
Though small, Nepal is strategically important to India and Nepal needs India and its assistance for
development and post-earth quake reconstruction.
Analysis of the recent happenings
Constitution of the Nepal had the wider acceptance in the constitution assembly and Indias objections
raised to the constitution is seen as an infringement by many in the Nepal political elite.
Indias support to Madhesis made the country to get on to the verge of hill versus plain conflict and did
bad to madhesis rather than good.
On the other side, historically Madhesis and other janjatis are not given equal rights and participation in
nation building process as like hill population. Dignity of all identities need to be internalized by the Nepal
as a state.
In this context, two immediate things Nepal shall take up includes
Conduct of panchayat elections

February Page 37
Conduct of panchayat elections

Demarcation of boundaries of the provinces
India also shall realize it is in Indias self-interest to appreciate rather than erode the Nepals sovereignty.
Stale, democratic, peaceful Nepal is in the best interests of India.

USA Cuba relations
Obama, achievement s in office
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Iran nuclear deal

Elections in Myanmar
Bringing china in to climate change Negotiations
Reapproachment with Cuba
Improved relations with Latin America
USA Cuba relations are going to take a new height with scheduled visit of president Obama to
the nation. By the end of the year Trade Embargo can come to an end.
Please see the Hindu infographic on this issue.
Li-Fi
It is a new technology that uses the light waves instead of radio frequency waves, as a medium to carry
data. In this an improvised LED light functions as a router.
As of now under Wi-Fi we are using radio frequency on electromagnetic spectrum and lifi uses visible ray
spectrum which is much larger.
Prime minister fasal bima yojana

February Page 38
20 Feb
05 July 2016
20:52
We, the people of South Asia

South Asia and diversity Ethnic conflicts in south Asia
South Asia is a home to various linguistic, religious ethnic, cultural and tribal identities. Demarcation of
political boundaries by the colonial powers left some ethnic groups divided residing in newly independent
multi ethnic states.
This has provided for challenges in the form of many insurgency movements and ethnic conflicts in the
region.
Nepal, Sri Lanka and Myanmar and ongoing constitutional transformation.
Nepal constitutional drafting has taken an inordinate amount of time in Nepal
Stage 1 ideological reconciliation
Stage2 integration of Maoists in to democratic process
Stage 3 transformation in to a democratic republic
Stage 4 Development of an all-inclusive constitution

At the stage 4, reconciliation with Madhesis and political re-organization of states became a major
challenge. Communist parties argue for geographical and economic criteria for provincial demarcation
and Madhesis demand for cultural and ethnic criteria for demarcation.
Indias state re-organization itself went through the same tortuous process and finally got a solution how
to reconcile between these demands.
In Sri Lanka, after the defeat of LTTE, new Government under President Mahipala Sirisena is aimed for a
greater reconciliation with ethnical minority, Tamils. 19th amendment to the constitution that transfers
presidents powers to the parliament and Prime minister and 20th Amendment meant to grant greater
devolution to provinces and districts are in this direction.
Indian federalism that aims to protect the Unity in diversity can be a guiding factor.
Important opinions can be used as conclusion in the answers.
The soul of a constitution lies in its vision of the kind of society that the country will seek to build through
its institutions.
A Constitution is only as good as its implementation,
A really good Constitution holds up the mirror to government and enables the public as well as leadership
to identify shortfalls.
Apple stands up to surveillance

Digital security vs National security
Issue FBI requested Apple Inc to help access the important data held in the iPhone of the
terrorists of San Bernardino, California. Apple opposes it saying it will dilute the security of its
products to its customers and compromises their privacy.
It also provides for cyber snooping operations and can damage the civil liberties of the citizens.
Arguments in India
In India, Use of social media and other technological tools for the spread of propaganda and perpetuation
of violence is increasing. But, the Government has a little control over these social media platforms. In
reference to, security vulnerability, developing countries are much worse placed compared to developed
February Page 39
reference to, security vulnerability, developing countries are much worse placed compared to developed
nations.
Labor in the twenty-first century
Global supply chains has in-formalized the labor by breaking down the production process and subcontracting.
Growth of Service sector, kept the huge work force away from unions.
Government s attempt to dilute the existing laws further worsening the situation. SO, Annual Global
rights index published by ITUC International trade union confederation gave a rating to India along
with dictatorships like Saudi, Qatar.
Why the labor unions are diluting? Fatal flaws
1. Political party affiliation It dilutes their commitment to the cause of the labor rights.
2. Leadership and its Bureaucratic style of function Leadership is more focused on policy analysis
rather than a strong on ground action.
3. Growth of service sector esp. IT industry changed the labor landscape.

U.S. imposes new unilateral sanctions on North Korea
USA signed in to a law to impose more sanctions on North Korea in the light of recent testing of a nuclear
device and ballistic missile.
The law will also give more tools to the administration to impose secondary sanctions. This expected to
influence China and USA relations.
Recent happenings on the issue.
After the Nuclear device testing by North Korea, USA has installed its Terminal High Altitude Area
Defense (THAAD) systems in South Korea, Its strategic ally. China fears these missiles can be used to
counter its strategic interests.
Army called in as Jat protest leaves 1 dead

Jat reservations
Ram Singh vs Union of India, 2015 Supreme Court Judgement
March 2014 UPA Government issued a notification under which community was included in the
OBC category in the central list in 9 states.
Supreme Court of India declared it as unconstitutional and void as Jat community is not culturally,
socially, economically backward.
Caste is a prominent and distinguished for determination of backwardness and it is not the sole criteria
while deciding on the backwardness of a social group.
My Opinion On issues of populism, reservations succumbing to the mob pressure by the state,
will ultimately result in lawlessness and sets dangerous precedents.
On issues of populism, reservations succumbing to the mob pressure by the state, will ultimately result in
lawlessness and sets dangerous precedents
February Page 40
22 Feb
05 July 2016
20:53
Gandhi and Ambedkar, a false debate

Debate between Gandhi and Ambedkar world view is singularly focused on the Poona Pact and it did not
take in to consideration wider political perspective prevailing at the point of time.
Right wing politics in opposition to Gandhi, tried to keep Hindu religion intact and in so, they brought a
new derivative that Ambedkar is also against to Minorities and his views are against to mahatma on both
caste and religion.
This view misses the following
1. Ambedkar and Gandhi both emphasized on social reform and faith than to state power to eliminate caste
prejudices.
2. Ambedkar liberally borrowed Gandhian way of struggle to fight caste oppression.
3. Ambedkar in the Minorities pact argued that if communities are permanently divided in to religious
majority and minority, than democracy becomes impossible in India as it will not allow all the groups to
hold the power. So, Hindus have to be dis-aggregated by caste.
Poona pact
British after the 3rd round table conference offered separate electorates for Dalits along with the
Muslims, Christians etc. Gandhi undertook fast on to death as it will divide the people further. An
agreement finally reached between Ambedkar and Gandhi for reservation of seats for Dalits instead of
separate electorates for them.
Delivering on Make in India

Modi Government took some remarkable steps to ease the regulatory environment in India to be a
destination for manufacturers and investment flows. It along with demographic dividend, democracy
shall add an advantage to the investments.
But, retrospective taxation is a major issue to strongly deal with and recent notices to Vodafone is a
reminder of the grim situation.
To grow or not to grow

India need to take a risk to relax its fiscal consolidation norms to achieve higher growth. The reasons
include
1. Monetary policy as a growth stimulator showed its limitations as most of the banks failed to transfer the
benefits to the customers.
2. Monetary policy framework and inflation targeting will not allow it to do.
3. NPA and cleaning of their account books make them highly risk averse.
4. Disinvestment and rationalization of subsidies are politically risky and cannot be easily carried forward.
India can go for Fiscal expansion to drive growth for the following reasons
1. Fiscal multiplier increase in GDP per unit of Government spending tends to be high in times of
economic contraction.
2. India is a net gainer of commodity price fall
3. Debt to GDP ratio of India decreased below 70%
Reservations
Govt. blinks, Jats to get OBC status Unreasonable demands
Fragmentation of land, reduction in agricultural revenue and reduced economic differences between
reserved and unreserved categories, Globalization and increased opportunities for educated, growth of
service sector are the reasons for the growth of reservation demands across India.
February Page 41
service sector are the reasons for the growth of reservation demands across India.
Notes from 20th Feb 2016 Backgrounder
Jat reservations
Ram Singh vs Union of India, 2015 Supreme Court Judgement
March 2014 UPA Government issued a notification under which community was included in the
OBC category in the central list in 9 states.
Supreme Court of India declared it as unconstitutional and void as Jat community is not culturally,
socially, economically backward.
Caste is a prominent and distinguished for determination of backwardness and it is not the sole criteria
while deciding on the backwardness of a social group.
My Opinion On issues of populism, reservations succumbing to the mob pressure by the state,
will ultimately result in lawlessness and sets dangerous precedents.
On issues of populism, reservations succumbing to the mob pressure by the state, will ultimately result in
lawlessness and sets dangerous precedents.

India studying impact of market economy status for China
Dumping is an unfair trade practice of exporting goods to another country at a price lesser than what is
paid in its domestic market or their normal production cost. It is trade distorting.
It needs a proper market economy, accounting standards etc.
As china had a state controlled economy, the dumping margin is calculated at comparable export price
with an appropriate third country and by constructing production cost with reasonable additions.
China entered in to WTO in 2001 and as per the agreement from 2016, China will be considered as a
market economy and dumping margins and the normal value has to calculated in comparison to the local
market costs in china.
It mean no more countries can easily reach out to the Anti-dumping measures against China. It may
adversely affect the Indian steel, cement industries with cheaper products from china.
Unemployment down in urban centers, but persists in rural areas, says survey
NSSO findings
Unemployment is higher among the rich and well educated

Self-employment and casual labour are highest in rural areas and wage employment in urban areas.
In rural areas, lowest unemployment rate is for Sikhs and in urban areas it is for Hindus.
Start-ups will need more tax exemptions, incentives to flourish

Employee stock options are offered in start up as they are not in a position to pay huge salaries. So, it is
reasonable to tax them at the time of sale and not at the time of exercise.
To face the competition, service tax and VAT exemptions have to be provided.
Incubators and investors need to be exempted from sec 56 of the IT act. (it considers any share brought
in excess of fair market share the value of such shares is considered as an income.)
Share swaps shall be considered as tax free mergers and mot transfer of shares and shall be exempted
from tax.
Provisional deal reached on Syria ceasefire

Though did not announce the details, secretary of the state Kerry declared that a provisional agreement
is reached on ceasefire in Syria
February Page 42

From <https://www.civilsprep.com/civilsprep-ias-current-affairs-22nd-feb-2016/>
February Page 43
23 Feb
05 July 2016
20:53
A fine balance on the Budget

Government is facing a daunting task of reviving the investment climate in India. As private sector
investment is not forthcoming, public investment is the way forward. It can increase the fiscal deficit.
Analysis
On Revenue side revenue expansion is still low. In India, Tax to GDP ratio is just about 17%.
Total revenue available to union Government is just around 10% of GDP.
On expenditure side recapitalizing the public sector banks, OROP, 7th pay commisison
recommendations are bound to increase the expenditure.
Raising the fiscal deficit will erode the credibility of the Government.
Additional borrowing by the Government will crowd out the capital away from private sector and it will
further increase the Debt to GDP ratio and burden of interest payments.
The way forward is to increase the public investment through the different other routes
1.
2.
3.
4.
Diluting the Government stocks in SUUTI specific undertaking of UTI)

Resolving the tax disputes
Implementation of kelkar task force recommendations on PPP
Implementation of GST and limiting the exemptions on taxes
On expenditure side
1. Streamlining of subsidies through JAM trinity and cash transfers

2. Increasing the price of Urea
Background
Fiscal deficit targets include 3.9% of GDP for 2015-16, 3.5% for 2016-17 and 3% for 2017-18.
Pump priming the economy Pump priming is the action taken to stimulate an economy, usually
during a recessionary period, through government spending, and interest rate and tax reductions.
Read more: Pump Priming Definition | Investopedia
Patriotism without nationalism

People are liberal and nationalistic in different proportions. Individual liberty is mere a theory unless
state protects it. Similarly Nationalism without liberalism is a monster.
Nationalism if taken from the Tagore perspective, makes people mechanical, violative of rights of the
others and makes him distant from his complete moral personality. He rejected this very sense of
nationalism.
Liberalism in India is visible in its freedom movement, civilizational ethos, secularistic vision and daily
practices well.
Referendum in Britain
Brexit It is a term reflective of Britain exiting the European Union. Negotiations on the issue and
deal are concluded and it is kept for the referendum.
The major issues of conflict are

1. Britain wants to limit the welfare measures to four years for EU citizens moving to Britain to work.
2. Rules to ensure that Banks and financial institutions in Britain are not at a disadvantage for not using Euro
February Page 44
2. Rules to ensure that Banks and financial institutions in Britain are not at a disadvantage for not using Euro
as a currency
3. Exemption for Britain from a European treaty obligation to strive for an ever closer nation.
Business in Britain are supporting for continuation in EU as it will raise the economic opportunities. But
there is a lot of skepticism on incoming migrants coming from eastern European countries, west Asia and
North Africa.
EU need Britain to continue the idea of unification of Europe Britain do not have Euro as its
currency and not participates in the Schengen border free zones. In spite of this it do not diminish
its importance.

Lower the corporate tax rate
Growth in an economy depends on three factors
1. Government expenditure
2. Private investments
3. Consumer spending
Reforms that need to be taken up
1. Revival of credit cycle creation of asset Management Company and transfer NPA of banks to it
and recapitalization of banks.
2. Tax widening of tax base, elimination of MAT, enactment of GST changing the inverted duty
structures are recommended.
3. Increasing Government spending on education and health care, infrastructure in rural areas, low cost
housing can revive the demand.
Jats think they are backward there is a reason

1. Mostly an agriculture dependent community and their economic status is weakening.
2. Inward looking and they have a very negligible presence in trade, education and employment. They
are educationally backward.
Provisional deal reached on Syria ceasefire

Though did not announce the details, secretary of the state Kerry declared that a provisional agreement
From <https://www.civilsprep.com/civilsprep-ias-current-affairs-23rd-feb-2016/>
February Page 45
24 Feb
05 July 2016
20:54
What Apple versus FBI means for India

FBI has requested Apple to retrieve the information from the iPhone of San Bernardino shooter. Apple
CEO said, it will have far reaching consequences to the privacy and data protection of the citizens.
In this context, lessons to India in this security of the state vs data privacy are very different from the
west.
Most of the MNC operate through their subsidiaries in India and are governed by the laws of the country
where they are incorporated. For example, section 69 of the IT act of India cannot be enforced on Apple
Company to get access to its data for investigative purposes.
If compliance rate of the social media giant Facebook is observed, it is high for the USA Government
compared to the requests from India.
It brings in new challenges before regulatory authorities.
Clean air agenda for the cities

Indian cities are highly polluted and causing a price on the health and labor productivity.
What India should do?
It shall bring in a comprehensive real data monitoring and air quality monitoring shall extend from the
existing 23 cities.
High levels of particulate matter that arises from the construction and demolition activity, thermal power
plants, biomass, use of diesel vehicles need to be addressed.
Low cost solutions like paving or covering the surfaces with greenery, transparency in sharing the
information with citizens holds the key.
Use of solar cookers, strengthening public transport, ban on diesel vehicles, alternative energy sources
can improve the air quality in cities.
Redefining Indian nationhood

Indian nationhood is based on civic rather than ethnic identity and cannot be equated with religious
identity of an individual. This makes India different from religious states.
JNU, a Centre for debate and dissent has a democratic existence and state power shall not be used to
silence the dissent in these institutions of higher education.
Hyper nationalism in the place of inclusive nationalism is dangerous to India and to mankind at large.
No option but to engage

At every point of time India and Pakistan initiated the talks there is a collateral action is going on in the
form of cross border terrorism, increased firing along LoC, and attacks on Indian establishments in India
and abroad.
Encouragement to terrorists as a unstated policy of the state and activities of its deep state are clearly
come in to open with David headily deposition.
After Pathankot, Pampore incidents, Prime minister has a scheduled visit to SAARC summit to be held in
Islamabad.
In this context, ignoring Pakistan is not an option. Adhocism, on off talks are not serving any purpose for
India. Only the way forward is engagement.
Issue in Kashmir is also getting complicated and sustained engagement is the key and Prime Minister
Vajpayee insaniyat shall be the guiding factor.

Kerala students to take digital literacy to the masses
February Page 46
Kerala students to take digital literacy to the masses

Kerala is using the school students to spread the digital literacy and awareness among the masses.
Obama pushes for Gitmo closure

Guantanamo bay, notorious for Human rights violation by US law enforcement agencies is proposed for
closure by president Obama. It has become a source for Anti US propaganda across the world.
Government to unveil IPR policy in a fortnight

India is bringing in a new IPR policy to promote investment, innovation in India.
But, the new policy will not touch compulsory licensing and provisions on ever greening of patents (India
has added an additional layer, therapeutic efficiency as a condition to be satisfied to renew the patent for
a drug).
It is also introducing new utility patents (Utility patents have lower compliance burden and shorter period
of protection).
Internet by light promises to leave WiFi in the shade

It uses the LED to transmit the internet and it is much faster than existing WiFi. As radio signals are closer
to their maximum utility, Li-Fi is expected to be the future of internet.
Govt. softens stand on foreign trips by officials

Government is allowing for the foreign trips of public official sponsored by international agencies, foreign
Governments. It is criticized that these can become an inducement for an officer and can be an effective
point of lobbying by MNCs.
Parliament
Keeping it parliamentary Democratic temper calls for debate, not disruption, Pranab tells
Parliament
President Pranab Mukherjee in his address to the parliament said, democratic temper calls for debate
and discussion and not disruption or obstruction.
Quoting subash chandra bose Nationalism is inspired by the highest ideals of the human race
Satyam, Sivam and Sundaram.
Vienna is worlds best city: Survey

According to Mercer quality of life study, Vienna is the best city to live in the world and in India,
Hyderabad ranked as the best place to live.
No Indian city ranked in top 100 best livable cities.
Brexit referendum campaign begins in U.K

Emergency brake
Agreement allows any EU state to call for an emergency brake or safeguard mechanism to be applied
to in-work benefits when an influx from elsewhere in the EU is deemed to result in undue strain on social
and economic systems.
The so-called emergency brake is one of a number of alternatives that EU leaders have suggested instead
of Camerons proposal of a four-year ban on in-work benefits for migrants.
Welfare tourism Jobless immigrants of EU taking the welfare benefits in another country is often
described as welfare tourism.
What are the Cameron proposals for EU
February Page 47
What are the Cameron proposals for EU
Integration: Allowing Britain to opt out from the EUs founding ambition to forge an ever closer union
so it will not be drawn into further political integration
Benefits: Restricting access to in-work and out-of-work benefits to EU migrants. Specifically, ministers
want to stop those coming to the UK from claiming certain benefits and housing until they have been
resident for four years
Sovereignty: Giving greater powers to national parliaments to block EU legislation. The UK supports a
red card system allowing member states to scrap, as well as veto, unwanted directives.
Eurozone v the rest: Securing an explicit recognition that the euro is not the only currency of the
European Union, to ensure countries outside the Eurozone are not disadvantaged. The UK also wants
safeguards that it will not have to contribute to Eurozone bailouts
Pathankot, Pampore
Situation in Kashmir is fast changing. Jihadists are hailed as the popular heroes. The failure of the
successive elected governments to deliver the development disillusioned the youth with democratic
experiment.
The growing competing communal-ism with majoritarian politics is creating an anxiety. So, as soon as
possible democratic government shall be established and development need to be brought on the proper
track.
Flying against logic

Aviation sector 5/20 rule
5/20 rule prescribes that any operator need to serve 5 years in the domestic sector and shall have at least
20 aircrafts to operate on the more profitable international sectors.
It is been criticized as an entry barrier to the new airlines and is going against the competition and
consumer interests. In a market economy government is expected to be a regulator ensuring the
competition.
On the other hand, established players argue that any changes in 5/20 rule shall come along with changes
in route dispersal guidelines ( established players are asked to operate to less remunerative, essential
routes.
Draft civil aviation policy important issues
Regional connectivity at a fare cap of 2500 rupees is suggested
Presidential address on Infrastructure

Bharat mala scheme to develop highways and water ways
Green highways policy 2015
Amendment to Mines and minerals development and regulation act 1957
Pradhan Mantri Khanij Kshetra Kalyan yojana
Dedicated commercial courts.

The backward forwards
Reservations in India can be divided in to three phases
Phase 1 it was based on the idea of social justice. The excluded sections of the society esp.
February Page 48
Phase 1 it was based on the idea of social justice. The excluded sections of the society esp.
Dalits and Adivasis are given reservations to address social exclusion rather than to economic
deprivation.
Phase 2 it is in the phase of mandal commission. In this era OBC are provided reservation. Here
backwardness interspersed both on economic and social front has become a criteria. Caste was
the basis for extending reservation to OBC
Phase 3 ruling caste model castes that have a control and sense of ownership over the state
power and land owning class started demanding for reservations.
Social forwardness, economic backwardness, decreasing social distances, reservation driven mobility of
lower castes, electoral clout can be cited as the reasons for growing demands for reservations.
Recapitalisation of banks Sword of recapitalization

Government in this budget is facing multiple challenges on one side it is expected to maintain the
fiscal deficit target of 3.5% of GDP, increasing stressed assets of the banks and need for
recapitalisation, decreasing oppourtunities for disinvestments, increasing expenditure in terms of
revision of salaries as per pay commission recommendation. etc. The only choice left before the
Government is to cut down its welfare expenditure and to go slow on recapitalisation of the
banks.
Demarcating a safe threshold

Shutdown of Internet
It has become a regular practice for the govt to shutdown internet with every law and order disturbance.
It is done with a magisterial order under section 144. Other laws like sec 69A of IT act, 2000, Telegraph
act also provide for the similar actions. Govt shall be cautious in using its prerogative to restrict the
freedoms to use Internet.
Strategic sale
it is sale in the equity of the company along with transfer of management control. UPA government
confined strategic sale only to the loss making PSUs. Now, the NDA government wants to expand it to all
PSUS.
From <https://www.civilsprep.com/upsc-ias-indian-express-current-affairs-24th-feb-2016/>
February Page 49
25 Feb
05 July 2016
20:55
A sordid record in Chattisgarh

Chhattisgarh is a mineral rich state located in
tribal heartlands. The Government notion of
development centred around growth has led
to displacement and antagonism, in the
tribals. Man by of the activists who are
questioning the Government and state
violence are facing increased incidents of
violence. On the other hand, crack down on
NGOs, sedition charges all represent the
intolerance of the state towards dissent.
Nationalism that is progressive

Cultural nationalism it is a majoritarian
construct that sees India as a homeland to
a particular religious practice and sees the
other as alien and anti-national.
Territorial nationalism it imagines India as
a geographical entity and promotes an
idea of that is united in diversities. It is an
outcome of Indian national movement and
it stresses on the accommodation of
differences in a diverse society rather than
elimination of disparities.
Building a powerful army, nuclear power all
are a pride to territorial nationalists.
Progressive nationalism it strives for the
elimination of economic inequalities and
respect for human life. According to
Tagore Universalist goals could be
accommodated within the framework of
nation state. Gandhis Talisman is an
example of progressive Nationalism.
For the present day challenges of India,
progressive nationalism can give innovative
solutions. It gives a space for dissent to
question the status quo.
Cash free world Cabinet nod to

incentivize cashless transaction
Government has initiated series of steps to go
cashless. These include
1. Mandatory card based payments beyond a
threshold
February Page 50
threshold
2. Withdrawal of additional charges, installation
of card payment systems in the Government
offices
3. Rationalization of merchant discount rate
4. Cash handling charges above a specified level
Benefits
It curbs black money and reduces tax
avoidance.
It also reduces the high costs of printing and
maintaining of the cash and coins.
Cash free world suggestions
A carrot for the honest
The present system little incentive for the tax
payer to use its cared. Indeed it acts as a
disincentive as the merchant charges a higher
price for the use of card.
So, incentivizing the card use through income
tax benefits for the customer, development of
infrastructure for electronic payments can
decrease the cash use.
India, Nepal Restoring goodwill with

Kathmandu
India and Nepal has mutual dependency and
maintains of good relations as neighbors is
critical for both the countries. Recent
constitution of Nepal, Madhesi agitation for a
greater federation, blockade of movement of
goods produced the bitterness between these
countries.
Nepal shall understand the
Indias sensitivities on spillover effects of
Madhesi agitation in its borders and India also
shall take in to consideration the development
needs and sovereign concerns of Nepal for
mutual accommodation of interests. Open
boundary, good will generated during PM
Modi visit to Nepal, infrastructure
projects are the best examples how the
relations shall go forward.
PM Oli again demonstrated the need for a
high level ownership of bilateral engagement
to return relations to a mutually beneficial
equilibrium.
CivilsPrep The Hindu News

Analysis
DBT for fertilizers Time for plan to roll
February Page 51
DBT for fertilizers Time for plan to roll

out DBT for fertiliser subsidies
Farmers shall be the focus a of the budget.
The steps that are expected from the
Government include
1. Rationalisation of fertiliser subsidies through
cash transfers.
2. Scrapping of APMC act
3. Focussing on pulses to cut down on exports
4. Creation of farmers producer organisation to
raise their buying power etc
From <https://www.civilsprep.com/upsc-ias-thehindu-current-affairs-25th-feb-2016/>
Section 124A should stay

It is legally established that sedition charges
under section 124A of IPC can only be used if
words incites to violence and creates a major
law and order problem.
In the light of growing nasal violence,
terrorism such a strong law is often necessary
to strengthen the arms of the state.
Smart disinvestment
Disinvestment achievements are always falling
short of targets. It was visible even during the
strong market conditions. Government shall
be smart about disinvestment decisions and
the proceeds can be redeployed in the
investments related to infrastructure.
Disagree, dont label

Right to criticise a Supreme Court judgement
and expression of the need for autonomy and
independence is with in the scope of
democratic rights of the citizens. Countries
like Britain and Canada are also facing the
challenges of secession. Nut, they need to be
democratically and peacefully settled. State
shall show the necessary maturity in this
context.
CivilsPrep Indian Express

News Analysis
Explained Are you anti national ?
Some answers from independence I
Challenges to India as a nation appeared even
constitution has come in to an existence.
February Page 52
constitution has come in to an existence.

Telangana freedom movement spearheaded
by communists was aimed to establish a
socialistic state.
Hindu right represented by Hindu Mahasabha,
RSS opposed secularism and finally Godse
killed Gandhi leading to their ban.
Tamil nationalism in south and Naga
nationalism in the north east was on rise.
The early years 1947 1962
Indian state was established surrounding the
ideals of secularism, universal adult franchise,
state protection against caste and religious
discrimination, freedom of speech etc. This
era can be described as a Nehruvian state.
The major opposition was from communist
and re-conciliatory attitudes gave a space for
their dissent. But, Nehru was sceptical of right
wing forces and considered Hindu nationalism
as a fascist phenomenon and a threat to the
Indian state.
The war period 1962-1971
War with China is a watershed in Indian
history and virtually is an end of the
Nehruvian era in Indian politics. Political
supremacy of the congress came to an end by
1967.
Naxalism, growth of shiva Sena as a right wing
political outfit in Maharashtra are the
significant developments.
Nations building exercise was taken a new
leap with Jai Japans nod Jai Kishan slogan and
green revolution.
The Indira Era 1972-84
Liberation of Bangladesh war, imposition of
emergency , loss of the congress at the centre
are the major events.
JPs Call for total revolution, janta party taking
over the power at centre and right wing
coming to central stage and gaining political
legitimacy are the defining factors of this
stage.
The siege with in 1980
These are the bloodiest years in Indian

history. Rise of right wing, death of Indira, reFebruary Page 53
history. Rise of right wing, death of Indira, reemergence of nationalistic movements in

Punjab, Assam, Jammu and Kashmir created
huge ethnic violence.
Shah banjo case, Babri Majid movement
marked the rise of religious fundamentalism.
The Muslim as the other 1990s onward
Hindu Muslim divide had become the defining
character of this era. Babri masjid demolition,
rise of right wing to the state power are the
important events.
A second stream in this narrative of
nationalism has been linked to development.
Any critic of development or right wing
narrative are branded as anti-nationals.
Presumption of Guilt
Prove innocence, bassi told JNU students. But
that isnt law.
The basic tenet of law is no one is guilty until
proven. It mean that prosecutions shall
establish the guilt in a court of law. Proof of
guilt is on prosecution.
In state of MP vs Ramesh Singh and other,
Supreme Court underline that even silence of
an accused can not be used to hold him guilty.
Though there are certain exceptions to this
rule, they can only be used in extraordinary
circumstances.
These exceptions include
Section 106 of Indian evidence act In some

cases, where a fact is especially with in
the knowledge of any person, the burden
of proving the fact is upon him.
In Veeraswamy vs Union of India case the
Supreme Court held that the burden of the
proof under prevention of corruption act can
lie with accused.
People like them- Haryana panchayat

law
Universal adult franchise has many social
implications far beyond the political
significance. It gave a sense of power to many
social groups which were not in a position to
wield power.
February Page 54
wield power.
Haryana panchayat law limits the choice of
the voter to choose a representative and
takes away the right of the uneducated to
represent the people. By doing this, it directly
attacks the value of the vote as an instrument
of social change.
FMs fiscal dilemma

FRBM Medium term fiscal policy review sets
the target of fiscal deficit to 3.5% of GDP for
this fiscal and to 3% to the next fiscal. It also
includes a revenue deficit target of 2% of GDP
and and effective revenue deficit of zero by
2018.
In this context, even if government achieves
fiscal deficit target and its achievement on
revenue deficit are doubtful.
So, fiscal consolidation can only be
expansionary only when there is an
expenditure switching from consumption to
investment activities. Now, with higher
revenue deficit the compromise can only be
made on capital expenditure. It can mitigate
the growth.
A deep malaise Indians challenges

on security
Indian security establishment majorly the
counter terrorism institutions suffer from lack
of infrastructure, resources, capabilities,
Manpower.
Rural development An analysis of

PMGSY
PMGSY is aimed to provide for providing an
all-weather road connectivity to every rural
habitation with a minimum population of 500
in plains and 250 in hill areas, states and
districts.
The success factors of the project include
1. Funding is consistent for the program
irrespective of change in government at the
centre.
2. In MGNREGA most of the developed well to
do states got majority of benefits. Unlike this,
under PMGSY MP, RJ, Up, Bihar are the major
beneficiaries. The reasons is MGNREGA is
majority a demand driven program and it can
be successfully implemented in better
governed states. On the other side, in PMGSY,
February Page 55
governed states. On the other side, in PMGSY,

state wide allocations are fixed based on the
pre-determined gaps in the road
infrastructure.
3. PMGSY is less prone to leakages and was
better monitored. As it is a specific asset
focused program, the quality of assets created
are also high.
4. MGNREGA has role in mitigating immediate
rural distress and PMGSY provide more
effective long term poverty alleviation
solution.
Program also qualifies as a success in terms of
equity and efficiency. It has increased the
rural productivity, increased the market
connectivity and led to the flourishing micro
enterprises
From <https://www.civilsprep.com/upsc-ias-indianexpress-current-affairs-25th-feb-2016/>
February Page 56
26 Feb
05 July 2016
20:57
The benefits of open science

Terms
Open science initiative of university of Madison
ZEST Zika experimental science team is sharing the lab data on open platforms. It is a departure
from the sensitive, competitive, secretive research carried out previously.
This Open science initiative can strengthen the peer learning, can speed up the actions during public
emergencies.
Quantifying the caste quotas

There is no sufficient data is available to understand the impact of affirmative action/ reservation as in
India.
Since 1931 census, Socio-economic caste censuses were undertaken in 2011 and results are not
published.
After liberalization, poverty has come down, government jobs are coming down, growth of employment
is not in pace with increase in educational opportunities. It has changed the occupational structure with
traditional land owning communities loosing an incentive in farming. It is one of the major reason for
growing agitations for reservations.
India with 70% population being eligible for reservation shows how the reservation policy is misused for
narrow gains, it is the time government shall take a re-look based on empirical data to provide for a
pragmatic reservation policy. Steps suggested are
1. 2021 census shall take up a reliable data on caste and religion and relative economic statistics.
2. Based on the data, eligibility groups shall be re evaluated
3. People shall be shuffled in and out of the eligibility criteria and it must ensure that benefits are not
concentrated to few individuals and few groups.
Fiscal policy
Meeting Great expectations
Indian budgetary practices are anarchic filled with secrecy. As like in OECD best practices for budget
transparency a pre budget report serves to encourage debate on the budget aggregates. It also
creates appropriate expectations for the budget.
In relation to the present year budget scenario, global scenario is not very encouraging and on domestic
side macro economic stability, low inflation. Increasing FDI flows, low current account deficit, higher
growth rate makes the things promising. On the other side, NPAs of banking sector, stalled projects, weak
local demand are the concerns.
In this context, to revive the growth, if fiscal policy targets are changed it will lead to increased interest
rates, crowding out of the capital and loss of credibility with investors.
So, disinvestment of PSUs and shifting of the additional funds generated for infrastructure generation will
ensure the growth in long run.
Banking sector can be revived with creation of asset Reconstruction Company and transferring of bad
Loans to it and through recapitalization. Systemic defects in banking structure and governance need to be
rectified to make them professional.
On tax revenues, streamlining GST, doing away with the provisions of retrospective taxation, reduction of
February Page 57
On tax revenues, streamlining GST, doing away with the provisions of retrospective taxation, reduction of
corporate tax and elimination of exemptions can create a favorable tax environment and increased
revenues.
PPP Projects shall be reinvigorated through implementation of Kelkar task force recommendations.
CivilsPrep The Hindu News Analysis

Railway budget
The present rail budget is presented in the context of 7th pay commission recommendation, decreasing
passenger, freight traffic to the railways.
Passenger friendly services new trains Tejas, hamsafar, antyodaya, deendayal coaches,
overnight double decker trains a re introduced. A digital push is given to the rail services in the
form of GPS connected digital display, on board entertainment, bar coded tickets are introduced.
Organizational restructuring Railway board is reorganized on the functional lines. More powers
are given to the zones and divisions with clear fixation of accountability. Key result areas are
defined for general managers and division balk managers.
A third party will be conducted to ensure the the quality of services.
Freight corridors three new dedicated freight corridors are introduced from New Delhi to
Chennai, Mumbai to kharagpur and kharagpur to Vijayawada.
To improve the freight traffic fares are dropped. Dependency on core sectors is planned to be reduced
with diversification of freight basket. Building terminal capacity and rail warehouses to improve the
logistics.
Finances monetizing various assets and raising the non tariff sources from the present under
5% is proposed.
National rail plan NRP 2030 provides for an integrated rail road inter-modal transport planning.
Operational ratio it can be defined as how much an organization shall spend to earn a rupee. In
Indian railways, the operational ratio is at 92% an increase of 2 points over last yea
February Page 58
27 Feb
05 July 2016
20:58
What it means to be national

Genesis and conception of Indian nationalism is very different from western nationalism. European
nationalism that has come in to existence after the Westphalian peace treaty in the 17th century was
essentially imperialistic and aggrandizing. It lead to huge suffering to human kind. It presented the world
wars, fascism and Nazism. This kind of nationalism identified an enemy from with in it is typically
minuscule minority.
On the other hand India has a nationalism that is inclusive centred on pluralism, democracy,
accommodation and negotiation in the event of differences. It has its origins in our anti colonial struggle.
Growing new liberal economics, destruction of Indian finest institutions can make our nation parasitical
pony advanced nations. The news of nationalisms that are growing centred around the majoritarianism
has dis integrative tendencies that can make India a failed state.
Economic survey Growth

It is projected at 7-7.75 percent. Survey expressed the concern that economy is not realizing its true
potential.
Improved investments in agriculture, health, education can build the ground for a faster growth.
Tax reforms
Only 5.5% of the people who earn are tax payers today. The lowest among the BRICS nation. Tax to GDP
ratio is around 16.6% compared to 21% in other emerging economies.
It suggested for bringing rich farmers in to tax net, raising property tax rates and phasing out tax
exemptions and not raising the exemption threshold limits.
As in many countries, there has been a growing concentration of income at the top.
Make in India
Eco survey provides for increasing the share of manufacturing sector to in Indias GDP From
The existing 15-16 % to 25% by 2022 and to create additional 100 million jobs.
Eliminating exemptions on countervailing duties on imports, monetization of land owned by public
sector, allowing industries and companies to buy electricity directly from free markets are suggested to
enable make in India a success.
India joining Trans Pacific partnership can jeopardize the Make in India initiative as it would prevent using
state owned enterprises and procurement by the govt to achieve social and economic objectives.
Fiscal deficit
Survey showed the confidence that it can adhere to the stated target of fiscal deficit of 3.9% of GDP.
Exit problem
The Survey lists the enormous fiscal, economic and political costs involved in sustaining incapacitated
ventures. Another meaningful suggestion is that India move from a pro-industry approach to one that is
genuinely pro-competition
Twin balance sheet challenge

The Survey has rightly called for a quick resolution to the twin balance sheet challenges the impaired
finances of public sector banks and corporate houses.
February Page 59
finances of public sector banks and corporate houses.

Demand
As external demand is shrinking, survey stresses on activating the domestic sources of demand.
Subsidies, DBT
Survey expressed the concern that rich enjoy subsidies to the tune of one lakh crore rupees in India.
Direct benefit transfer if need to be successful to streamline the subsidies, JAM trinity implementation to
move forward financial inclusion, motivation of bank correspondents is very critical. So, the major
problem is paying the beneficiaries,
Green climate goals

Leveraging private finance along with public finance is critical for the success of our climate goals.
GM crops
Survey recommended for GM crops along with improved irrigation, farm mechanization, markets and
inputs to raise productivity and ensure food security.
India stand at WTO

India stand on SSM and failure to gain concessions at WTO is questioned.
Labor reforms
Excessive job security and too regulated environment is working against to the workers.
Employer likes to keep the employee as a contractual labor and employee is also not willing to contribute
to EPFO. Most of them prefer to receiving cash instead of the money going to their accounts.

Startups
India start up culture is on a higher growth path and 8 eight Indian startups made themselves in to billion
dollar club.
Fund crunch hits Indian drug trial

CSIR developed an anti TB drug regime PaMZ through open source drug development consortium. It has
hint the wall due to fund crunch.
From <https://www.civilsprep.com/upsc-ias-the-hindu-current-affairs-27th-feb-2016/>
February Page 60
29 Feb
05 July 2016
20:59
Green economy For a green economy that is also just

India has gigantean goal of achieving 1,00,000MW of electricity from solar mission by 2022. In this
context, domestic content requirement clause of India stipulates the production of solar cells and
modules with in the country. It is challenged by USA as violative of global trade rules. So, initiatives such
as solar mission that jhas significance for climate change cannot be viewed only from profit dimension
and they are also meant to usher in a green economy. It makes the fight against climate change inclusive.
JNU agitation message to security agencies Is India at an inflection point ?

Today, agitations are fast spreading from their inception to the stage of violence. Technology is playing an
effective role. So, understanding technology in motion is a critical challenge. It is very critical for India at
this juncture
It is going through a stage of ideological polarization

Cross boundary violence is increasing
Increasing naxalism and militancy from marginalized
Increasing sense of stratification in society
Recent student agitations by the students in various universities in India shows their dissent against
establishment. Anti-national slogans are just outer cover, The deep resentment inside need to be
addressed. Building a just society by just means A Nehruvian thought holds good even today to
control the situation. Governments excessive use of force can polarize the society further and
can only make the situation further worse. So, we need an activist state that is focused on
preserving social cohesion and a sense of optimism to protect and enlarge the dignity of every
human.
Supreme Court Reworking the Supreme Courts role

The major question in the functioning of the Supreme Court is does it need to function both as an
appellate court and a constitutional court and just as a constitutional court?
In the first scenario, number of cases accumulating before the Supreme court are increasing and its focus
on most important constitutional matters is decreasing.
So, suggestions to improve the situations include the appoint a national court of Appeal with four
cassation benches for adjudication of non-constitutional matters. However, successive CJI opposed for
the appointment of benches outside New Delhi.

Bank boards
Centres nod for Bank Board Bureau
Bank board Bureau an independent office is meant to appoint non official chairman and board
members to the public sector banks.
It also advises them on the way to raise funds and mergers& acquisitions.
Vinod rai is appointed as a chairman for this board. A CAG is not allowed to take up any Government
office post retirement and his appointment is questioned.
Climate change Climate-driven reduction in sea-level rise

A study by GRACE( Gravity recovery and climate experiment) prove the contribution of land water
aquifers to offset the sea level rise due to climate change.
February Page 61
aquifers to offset the sea level rise due to climate change.
Coral calcification
Landmark experiment improves coral calcication by 7%
Ocean acidification from increased levels of absorbed co2 and resultant carbonic acid is threatening the
coral reefs. A recent study (caldira) showed that increasing the alkalinity of is raising the aragonite
saturation rate (It is used to calculate the availability of carbonate ion to build their shells and skeleton).
Farm income
Will double farm income by 2022: Prime minister
Prime Minister Modi recommended for a renewed focus of the states on agriculture and recommended
for the farmers to integrate agriculture with timber plantation and livestock rearing to raise their
incomes.
Media accountability
Holding the newspaper to account
The Hindu sets an example for self-regulation by institutionalizing the office of readers editor.
From <https://www.civilsprep.com/upsc-ias-the-hindu-current-affairs-29th-feb-2016/>
February Page 62

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1 Feb

LGBT Rights in India

India France relations

Gujarat terror bill

VISA on arrival to Japanese and South Koreans

Question of the day

Towards a law on Euthanasia

CivilsPrep News Analysis

Inverted duty structure

the import of finished goods cheaper

Determination of the sex of the fetus

Question of the day

Jammu and Kashmir

Spread by mosquito bite Aedes aegypti known to cause chikungunya, Dengue

CivilsPrep News Analysis

Indian Pharma Exports

Question of the day

CivilsPrep News Analysis

Direct Benefits Transfer

Question of the day

Agriculture Going against the grain

Preotecting Indias Trade Interests

CivilsPrep News Analysis

Question of the day

Vocabulary of Justice and being

CivilsPrep News Analysis

Strict liability of the nuclear operator

CSC Convention on Supplier Compensation

Sole liability of the operator and no fault liability

Question of the day

Israel Palestine issue

Escalation of violence in west bank and east Jerusalem.

What will happen after the evacuation ?

Israel recognized the PLO as Palestines official representative

TPP Trans-Pacific Partnership

RTE Act Schooling lessons to India

In this context, following reforms are suggested

A right to quality education need to be enacted

Prejudice Taking Pride in Prejudice

CivilsPrep News Analysis

Question of the day

Corruption [ref link]

Poverty and Terrorism [ref link]

Cosmopolitan Cities Benguluru [ref link]

Siachen [ref link]

CivilsPrep News Analysis

North Koran American Deployment [ref link]

No Differential Rates [ref link]

Mumbai Terror Attacks [ref link]

Issue Net Neutrality Recent TRAI decision

Internet power to the people [ref link]

Differential pricing of data

Rights and duties of platform monopolies to their users need to be specified.

The Supreme Court must end Partisan federalism [ref link]

Time for Pharma course correction [ref link]

CivilsPrep News Analysis

Gates foundation on centers radar [ref link]

Agencies and laws to remember

Women and profits [ref link]

Question of the day

Siachen Conflict [ref link]

What are the positions of India and Pakistan on demilitarization ?

Growth data [ref link]

Net Neutrality [ref link]