Financial Management in the view of Low Inflation, Crude Oil price, Industrial Production & Trade Deficit.

16 December 2014(Money Talk)

This is the FM Gold channel of AIR, In the Programme Money Talk now we bring you the dialogue on Financial Management in the view of Low Inflation, Crude Oil price, Industrial Production & Trade deficit. Participants are Aravind Prasad, DG, FICCI and Shushil Sinha, Hindu BL.

Dr. Prasad, we are getting mixed of economic trend, the rupee has gone down, the crude has also gone down, WPI &CPI gone down, and SENSEX & NIFTY has gone down. What do you see in these down trends?

If you overall see, it is except for few items overall it gives a very positive signal. It also talks about what should be the policy directions. Because as you said there are mixed element to that. What is good is the crude price is going down. And India import 80% of Crude, so in fact it affect energy price and therefore affect transport price, it affect almost industrial production. That’s why it is very good news. It is very good signal. Second thing Inflation has gone down, if you remember, this government or this party when they were campaigning for election, they raised two issues, one is Inflation and other is Employment. So the inflation in 6 months, of course they have been supported by some global events as well. Because of their policies, because of some good luck, because of their National International event, whatever the inflation have gone down. WPI is zero last five years; even the retail consumer price index is around 4.3 or something much less than the targeted RBI objective of 6%. So this is a good thing, they have achieved at least one big promise made to the public during the election campaign, that will bring down inflation, and really they achieved.

And the second thing is that one which they have to target is creation of Job. And creation of Job require Growth, the growth require that the dollar price or the rupee also getting weaker requires larger manufacturing and export. So now they need to create an enabling environment where jobs are created, growth takes place and manufacturing happens. So the first thing under that I would say there is a need to reduce the interest rate now. At this low rate of inflation, current rate of interest is not justiciable. That is the first thing they have to target.

Coming to the point of Inflation, the WPI is now zero after 2009 and the CPI/ Retail inflation is 4.38%. Now I worry is when we talk about whole sale price inflation at zero it is in the case we are going towards Deflation which is not good for a developing nations like us. We need some kind of inflation bench between 2.5 to 3%. How do you justify this Zero % inflation?

Combine this figure with that of Index of Industrial Production (IIP) that is -4.2. So it is more than obvious, that we need to give perk to the manufacturing activity, activity we need to give perk to consumer demand and immediate step to reduce the interest rate will have the impact on the demand of cars, automobiles, demand of housing loans. And If these two sectors, forget about other sectors consumer goods, in even capital investment in industries…all these if you reduce the interest the housing sector allow almost 250 industries, iron, cement, all the small manufacturing goods which are used in Housing Industries. So I think, reducing interest rate this time is most important policy decision which emerges from all the data which you have quoted. Except one where the rupee has been little weaker and that is primarily because in the November month the gold import almost five times more than what has happened in Last year Novemeber. So there is a need to keep an eye on this and there is a need that common public has also now to see that there is an economic expert and they should invest in other investment & instruments rather than gold, because the inflation is going down.  So incentive in investing in gold because you primarily invest in gold because you are afraid of Inflation and Gold is the instrument which gives you certain assurance against the inflation. So in the lower rate of inflation, the public should also look other instrument particularly the government has come up with KVP (Kisan Vikas Patra).. So that may be, you know simpler mechanism for quite manipulation.  Government is working in the Jan Dhan scheme which is essential banking sector accessible to larger number of people. I think people should take benefit from these initiatives from the government and try to invest more in the productive assets rather than gold at this time.

But when we talk about cutting of the interest rate, there is one parameter that is inflation. RBI has already clarified that they will take CPI as a consumer Index or retail inflation for revising the repo rate (rate at which you can borrow from RBI).Now the biggest worry is, whether we are talking about inflation or inflationary expectation. The inflationary expectation is still building up, and in that situation RBI need to be hoagies rather than just putting their proposal or their decision in front of popular demand. How do you see that?

It is not the popular demand, I am referring to. I am just referring to objective data set which is the WPI, which is the CPI, which is the IIP and all these clearly indicate even this retail consumer price index which you mentioned earlier, RBI use to look at WPI last year because there used to be lot of gap between WPI and CPI, particularly because of the huge food inflation. So since Food inflation infringes large number of poorer people, the RBI rightly decided that they would look at the CPI. But even CPI, RBI had target to bring lower than 6% in March 2015, it is already 4.3%. Of course, RBI policy decision is not a one time in five year; they review every 2 month, so it is a dynamic process but at this stage all the indicators indicate that there is a need to give a support to the growth through consumer demand so the economics activities moves up.

Another promise, the BJP has made during the election campaign is of creating New jobs are also fulfilled in addition to bringing down the Inflation. 

But Don’t you see Inflationary expectation building up, I mean you feel that inflationary expectation is almost subdued.

There are two three issues. One of course the fuel price and globally, of course it is somewhat unpredictable going from $115 per dollar to $125 now to $60 it can even go down to $50. So of course that keeps on little varying. Second inflation which is regarding Rabi crops, Agricultural Inflation, There are certain view point, that in coming months, the agricultural inflation may not remain as low may be some pressure on that. But even accounting for that this is much below than what is necessary for giving a spark to the growth and giving relief to the consumer. I think this is the time, RBI should take a look and reduce the interest rate giving a spark to the industrial growth and in any case it is a dynamic activity. And I don’t think in month or two the inflation is going to come back to a very higher level.

Coming to the crude prices, crude prices have come down as rightly mentioned it was $115, $125… when budget estimate were made it was made on $107 to $110 per barrel. Currently the rate is $60 a barrel, almost five years low. And when we talk about Indian basket which is the mix of various imported product which is around 60% expected to come down. But at the same time, the Rupee is becoming weaker, that may take away all the benefits of falling crude prices. How do you this situation especially in the terms of CAD?

In view of crude price coming down, and almost 80% of our crude is imported the whole game has been spoiled by the gold import. One single item, I don’t think would have complicated the whole economic which is going on. As one single item Gold import going 5 times more than the last years had spoiled this. Why had this happened? Because see the Govt. had controlled the gold import, they had come up with 80:20 schemes which essentially means certain selective banks were given import opportunity the condition was they will export 20% gold or jewelry. Few months back, they give it to certain authorized traders as well. Those traders, they took this advantage of this selective relaxation. They saw an opportunity for hoarding the gold through this new region. I know the names have great mention for gold, that too during Diwali. In the November, It is the 5 times import of gold, I think it is entirely because of the new scheme and new opportunity given to six or seven traders. Given an opportunity to six or seven traders, were given an opportunity to import. Govt. has done wide things; they just removed all the control all together except the import duty. But the physical restriction, the non-tariff barriers. Because of this physical restriction what giving an opportunity to select few that has been devoid. So the speculative opportunity was gone. Of course what you are saying right, that custom duty has been high that also creates an opportunity for smuggling and coming from unauthorized channel. In fact after the government should keep close eye to this how the market responds to the current policy. And if some point if they move positive direction, they should do away with the gold management at all, it should be left with the market that would create more positive environment.

Now the worry for the Indian market is fed meeting in Wednesday it is expected to take decision in whether they will up check or not. That is why Indian market closes in loss on tuesday. If I just recollect, BSE in that sensitive index SENSEX we call it, it went down by 500 point and Nifty went almost 100 points. Do you see an Apprehension because of the Fed meeting on the change?

Global happening will always have some impact in our Indian market. We are too globalized today, not to have any impact, but what we should focus; both as citizen of India and as government, to look out our inherent strength and how to further extend it. In the policy perspective, we should create an environment where there is policy support manufacturing, entrepreneurship and economic growth. And from individual point of view, we should look at our investment and our on up gradation of skill to enhance our participation in economic activity. So from the consumer/ citizen whoever they have the saving, it is time for saving, there is no reason investing in the gold, one should invest in more productive stock market or bond market or other financial instrument like Kisan vikas Patra whichever suits the individuals risk profile. They should invest in that. They should also try to upgrade and take up entrepreneurship opportunity particularly which government is trying to promote that. So that you have participate in economic activity. On the government side, they should reduce the interest rate, so that more economic activity, you should create enabling environment where people are can take smaller percent who never have done any business, they should not afraid of taking entrepreneurship. So the regulatory environment, control mechanism should be such that everybody should be encouraged to take economic activity in the country.

Do you see some Apprehension from fed meeting, because there is fear, if fed reduces or rather I say if it increases the interest rate, FII money will go out to other country. In that situation our stock market will get affected, our investment from other country will get affected. Do you see these apprehensions have some grounds?

The normal economics, that if fed increase the interest rate, some FII would shift. But government supports the manufacturing scenario here, will have lot of FDI. So it will be the fluctuation, the FII moves out very fast, whereas FDI takes some time to come in. So there will be some fluctuation, if fed increases its interest rate. But in the longer run, the overall manufacturing environment, investment environment remains strong in the country; I don’t think there will be lot of pressure on Indian rupees.

If I just recall, Mr. Narendra Modi’s statement, when He defined FDI as First Develop India, so how industry can do that, in order to curb the impact of higher FDI outflow, if they want to use the domestic factors, if they want to exploit the domestic factor, what are the key two element which the industries would expect from the government?

So now what exactly focusing on the two things, and they are rightly focusing. One is on skill development, because we have to shift larger number of people who are in the agriculture to manufacturing and food processing and all that. Second they are focusing facilitating enabling environment, including easy access of land acquisition but full compensation to the farmer

Thank you Mr. Prasad.

You are listening to a dialogue on Financial Management in the view of Low Inflation, Crude Oil price, Industrial Production & Trade deficit. Participants are Aravind Prasad, DG, FICCI and Shushil Sinha, Hindu BL. This came to you in the program News Analysis produced & presented by News services division on All India Radio.

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GIST: Financial Management in the view of Low Inflation, Crude Oil price, Industrial Production & Trade deficit.

Falling global crude price $115 to $60 per barrel – positive to India – as India import 80% crude ; Inflation reduce; Retail consumer price index reduce to 4.3% (less than & much earlier than RBI objective of 6% by March 2015); Whole sale price inflation at Zero – trending towards Deflation - bad to developing economy; RBI should reduce the interest rate (Eg. Housing sector alone will benefit 250 industries like cement, iron…); but the positive environment spoiled by the single factor – investment option of people, Gold import increased by 5 times – financial instrument need assurance against the inflation; Government introduced KVP (Kisan vikas patra) – Jan Dhan fo Banking penetration; biggest pressure inflationary expectation – it could return within few months at very higher rate; Objective data sets WPI, CPI, IIP indicate;  Gold import 80:20 Scheme; Apprehension of Fed Meeting – too globalized – increase in interest rate – FII money will go out – to counter – govt. impetus to manufacture would attract more FDI- FII out flow faster than FDI inflow – cause some fluctuations – FDI – how First Develop India – Skill development & easy Access of land acquisition;                                         

Successful Launch of GSLV Mark III

18 December 2014

This is the FM Gold channel of AIR, In the Program News Analysis now we bring you a dialogue on successful launch of GSLV Mark III. The participants are Ajay Lele, Research Fellow IDSA and Dinesh C Sharma, Science writer.

The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) today completed an important mission. The objective of this mission is twofold. This launch the GSLV Mark III it was an experimental flight of Geo-synchronous Satellite launch vehicle which was underdevelopment, so that was the one part of the mission. The second part of the mission was the testing of the crew module, which would be used in the future man mission of ISRO which is under planning for sometimes.

It marks an another important landmark in the history of March of Space Agency towards becoming a full-fledged space body which can do everything from right from designing satellite to launching heavier satellite to operating them in Scientific projects of larger dimension.  So how do we place today’s success in this journey of ISRO?

I think it is an important movement in the journey of ISRO, particularly as far as this launching system are concern, particularly the crew module aspect I would say it is a baby step as far as India’s overall human mission is concerned. But as far as the Launch vehicle is concerned, it is half part of a mission, because essentially the entire GSLV consist of 3 stages and the third stage which is extremely important that is Cryogenic Engine which is under the present stage of development. It will take another 2 years to launch that mission but the most important aspects of this mission is that till date we were depending on particular system for launch system mostly it is PSLV or variant of it. But right now what we have done is both the first stage is solid stage and second stage which is liquid stage has been freshly designed. So this is an important step form the point of view that we have ventured in to new design. Because, we understand that for launching satellite more than 4 tonne in weight, we need to have a new design. So the first portion of the design has been successfully tested today.

As you said GSLV which was launched today is not full scale GSLV because the first two stages 

were there and it is the three stage rocket. And the third stage of course consists of Cryogenic engine and in today’s launch they had a dummy engine. But I think lastly what they wanted to test and qualify certain system which were used for the first time, there were several new features in the first two stages itself. So that which could have been tested on ground, they needed this flight, so they call it an Experimental flight not developmental flight. I suppose the developmental flight, as the ISRO chairman today said is still 2 years away which will have an indigenous cryogenic engine.

You look at the conventional design of the satellite design vehicle particularly the listeners are were much aware of the PSLV Design very good 4 stages that is solid, liquid again solid stage and liquid stage all these stages are mounded on each other. As far as your Earlier Mark 1 & Mark 2 GSLV also was concerned, you had a Solid stage, Liquid stage and Cryogenic stage. We were using for certain launches, Russian Engine and for one launch we have successfully used Indian Engine also for Cryogenic stage. But if you look at the first and second stage, that is almost replica of PSLV design. Right now in this particular thing what has happened is that, your first stage was part of the second also, in that sense you had 2 separate boosters otherwise we use to have huge solid state first stage. Instead of that you got 2 separate boosters which essentially help to do differential change in to the entire mission profile. And you had is liquid stage also, interesting aspect is when the first stage is ignited at the same time the second stage also ignited. So these are the few new features which they have worked out. Because essentially here Mark I & Mark II also were allowing you to carry the satellite in to the Geo Stationary orbit but weight it was problem it was lesser than 3 tonnes. So if you want to launch the satellite of higher payload satellite, essentially communication satellite that’s what the requirement is. Recently we launched our satellite which has got 42 transponders, again we will be going to France to launch another communication satellite. So we want to reduce this dependence on other agencies and from that perspective, I think this is above vital flight has been very useful of ISRO and when they marry a cryogenic engine then I think India’s space program would go leaps above.

Let’s discuss something more about the Cryogenic engine itself. Because I think that is very crucial for the future of India’s Space Program as we have discussed that to launch larger category of heavier satellite on our own like communication satellites or ultimately the man flight would go on GSLV. So in that point of view development to indigenous Cryogenic engine is very crucial and which has been in the pipeline for quite sometimes.

If we look at the early 1990’s .. suppose to be part with cryogenic engines, which are custom made engine with Cryogenic technology also with in India. At that time US raised the issue related to Missile Technology Control Regime and argued if you part cryogenic technology to India, India would use it in its missile program. But incidentally India’s Missile program was a standalone separate program and India’s Space program is other standalone separate program. As far as India’s missile program is concerned, India had already achieved what it actually wanted to achieve. Were India’s effort drastically need was in the development of cryogenic engine stage. Last 15 years also we are continuously working on it; we had our own share of failures too. But If you really look at the major two failures which happened were in 2010, when our both the satellite launches failed one of them had Cryogenic engine which is Russian made, second was indigenous cryogenic engine.

But the first failure was not attributed to the cryogenic engine.

Exactly and the Cryogenic was not Indian made also…

Now the interesting aspect is that even though we were saying that India took so much amount of time, only in the second attempt we succeeded with our cryogenic technology. So, when in the beginning of this year we launched our satellite by using indigenous cryogenic engine is succeeded with it. Now the issue is of the cryogenic engine what we used for Mark II is not good enough for Mark III. So we need to certain amount of more improvements in the cryogenic technology, and from that perspective now we are working making cryogenic engine stronger. There are other aspects of Cryogenic engine where you got a propellant which instead of using liquid hydrogen, you end up using kerosene. We are working on that technology also, when that technology when it gets developed will allow us to launch satellites which are even more than 6 tonnes capability. So Cryogenic is the thing were the work is still on and let’s hope with in next 2 years at least cryogenic which is required for our GSLV Mark III gets successfully developed.

I think, the short term or you can say the medium term goal is to have perfect this technology of Cryogenic, that we can start launching heavier satellite form India like the GSAT which we launched from core institute of that which we have capability of doing that from Indian soil itself. That should be the medium goal.

Definitely, If you really look at the way India’s PSLV has become a successful work for last 27 launch we had done it successfully. So we want to have that sort of capability available with us, with GSLV launcher also. When we get that sort of capability available with us, it has about lot of implication as far as India’s Space program is concern whether they are strategic implication or commercial implications or else what is the core element of India’s Space program i.e. for the purpose of socio-economic development. I think in all these three areas we will get a boost, and definitely it will boost our moon program and mars program too.

Chandrayan II we also need requires a GSLV. So, it going to be the vehicle of the future; so we need to perfect the technology of cryogenic and Mark III of GSLV. So in that direction today’s flight was an important mile stone we are going in to the making of the final GSLV Mk III. And coming to the payload, it was called (CARE) as such Crew Module Atmospheric Re-Entry.   It is a sort of module which ultimately takes humans to space. This is the thinking and this case for the benefit of the listeners, you must clarify; this is not as if the module is ready. And in fact these are the two building modules for say to build crew module which will ultimately go in to the space whenever India go in to a Man mission. And in fact this was a design because Re-entry is an important aspect whenever an object goes in to space and wants to come back, coming back part is more important. In fact that’s where the crucial technologies are required at the Re-entry point.

Because, at that point the temperature; sore too high.

I think at this point of time, we have to give example of the sad case of the demise of Indian origin astronaut Kalpana Chawla. In her space craft when it was re-entering in to the Earth’s Atmosphere, because of the thermal shield of the craft had not worked properly, that’s why it got disintegrated. Issue over here is, as the space craft is entering in to the Earth Atmosphere, Huge temperature different would be experienced by the space craft. The temperature reaches to the tune 1000-2000 degree Celsius. Until and unless you have the technology capable of withstanding these sorts of temperature, you can’t really send human to the space. But if I slightly go back, in the year 2007, India had done the first experiment on SRV ie. Space Recovery Vehicle. And that point of time, the payload which we had sent was is of 555 kgs expressively of small payload. This time we had sent payload of 3.6 tonnes that means 3600 kgs. And that payload has definitely withstood the test of the temperature and it has been pushed in to the Bay of Bengal at the designated location. Now I think what is important is that even though we are celebrating the success, after this particular crew module will be taken up by the coast guard, again certain amount of analysis of what is actually happened to the surface of the crew module and that also will give more amount of important data, that how it has withstood and what sort of impact that soring temperature had on this crew module.

Normally these crew modules like Chinese, Russian and American were used and we learnt lesson from those technology and we have improved up on that. These crew modules have something called Heat Shield, So that the high temperatures when they are reaching the heat doesn’t get transfer to the module and the human inside the space craft. That is the whole purpose of the Heat shield. And those of some kind of special material which have been used here what they called a blazing, in that sense these material when heated vaporize and the heat doesn’t get transfer in to the module itself. 

Therefore sometimes you see that these object looks like a fire ball entering in to space. That is a key technology, which is ISRO has been able to develop, these material are again of Strategic, I would say, not available of the self. We need to have the capability of developing special materials for the modules like this.

We have developed some materials, because the material stands as the key over here. And I think since 2007 onwards, we have been doing consistent development, I am sure that ISRO must have learnt something from there 2007 SRV experimentation also. And that knowledge must have also allowed them to improvise this technology for such a bigger mission. At the aspect of this landing is the parachute which has been developed. Now what happens is that, now we have to change in to the speed, because what happened when the crew module was released at the height of 126 Km  and the free fall started, after it enters in to the 80 km of further, it encounter huge of amount of temperature different, and subsequently again the free fall was taking place, but you need to control the movement of this particular craft or crew module.

Reduce the speed, reduce the velocity. For this purpose we have special parachutes we have made. Initially say 13 minutes, because after the launch took place at 5^th minute, the capsule was release and it started coming back. And after say 13^th minute, the first smaller parachute was opened up, it has allowed it to decelerate the speed to certain level. And as it comes closer to the Earth, again the bigger parachute, remind you the diameter of the parachute was 31m. Huge parachute because it can withstand the weight of the module which is 3.6 tonnes.

The speed is reduced from several Km/sec to few metre/sec.

That is again very interesting aspect. If you really look in to how the ISRO had prepared for this. Few days back or few years back they have tested this crew module but putting the module into a helicopter, it was taken to the height of 3.5 km and from there it was dropped.

I see these are the crucial technological building blocks towards the ultimate goal of, you know developing man mission. And I think the developments are going parallel, in one hand we are putting all our efforts in to developing a Cryogenic rocket which ultimately when the mission is ready can take the Human module. We need to develop a lot of technology, to make this module hospitable for the human to live there and several other parameters. The module itself like a satellite, it has propulsion system, guidance system, navigation system… And hopefully the Government would prove as the ISRO scientist and Community expects that Man mission would be approved and all this Inputs would go into it.

You are listening to a dialogue on Successuful launch of GSLV Mk3. The participants are Ajay Lele, Research Fellow IDSA and Dinesh C Sharma, Science writer. This came to you in the program News Analysis produced & presented by News services division on All India Radio.

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GIST: Successuful launch of GSLV Mk3

Twofold objective – Geo-synchronous Satellite Launch(GSLV) & Testing of Crew Module ; GSLV – 3stages – III stage is extremely important that is of Cryogenic Engine – as till date we depend up on PSLV – successful work with 27 launch; Cryogenic what tested today is Experimental flight – Developmental flight yet be ready in 2 years; GSLV Mk I & II – has solid, liquid & cryogenic stage - which is not capable of launching payload more than 3 tonnes; Recently: to launch communication satellite with 42 transponders (3.4 tonnes) – we went to Franch; Cryogenic engine is crucial – to reduce this dependence; 1990 – US – MTCR issue – hinder the Cryogenic Technology transfer – suspecting it to be used in Missile Technology; but incidentally both Space Program & Missile program of India is standalone Separate Programs; GSLV Mk3 – Strategic implication, Commercial implication & core element of such program is socio-economic development; our moon mission Chandrayan II also required GSLV; 

Crew Module – CARE (Crew Module Atmospheric Re-Entry) the second part of the test; sad demise of Kalpana chawla – thermal shield not worked properly – temperature  reached 1000-2000 c in the re-entry; SRV tested in 2007 by ISRO – Space Recovery Vehicle – which is just 555 kg very minimal what we required is – capability of carrying 4 tonnes of Payload; Heat Shield & Parachute system of GSLV Mk3 – Heat shield of a Blazing material – when heated vaporize & prevent the heat transfer into the module; Parachute system for safety landing – small parachute – decelerate the speed from several Km/sec to few metre/sec; Further it need to be made more hospitable; The module itself mini-Satellite with Propulsion sys, Guidance Sys, Navigation sys; Both this Cryogenic & CARE is the building blocks for Bigger goal of MAN MISSION which await government approval;

Question Source for UPSC 2014 Mains

Why now a days, Coaching Institution losing their relevance in UPSC exams?

Where the Questions of UPSC which stands out of coaching class materials picked from? Is it from Mars or Jupiter?
Or

Is the UPSC more creative in framing question?

"The secret to creativity is to knowing how to hide your sources."

Is UPSC hiding its source?

An Analysis

Question Source for UPSC 2014 Mains

Essay Paper

NO Specific Answer for Essays, This paper is to test your thought flow and clarity, GS type of Answer will not fetch good mark. Its score most of the time aid the Elimination process. People often with equal scores in GS Paper & Optional paper might have a wide valley-gap in their marks of Essay Paper (Ex. 30 marks Vs 150 marks). This paper some time decides one getting in to the service.

Section-A (125 marks)

Write any one of the following essay in 1000-1200 words.

1.     With greater power comes greater responsibility.

Hint: As the biggest Country India also had the ‘biggest responsibility’ – Our PM

Other Perspective: http://www.business-standard.com/article/opinion/with-great-power-comes-great-responsibility-114100500643_1.html (this could have been used if asked in GS)

2.     Is the growing level of competition good for the youth?

3.     Are the standardized tests good measure of academic ability or progress?

Hint:

4.     Words are sharper than the two-edged sword.

Section-B (125 marks)

Write any one of the following essay in 1000-1200 words.

1.     Was it the policy paralysis or the paralysis of implementation which slowed the growth of our country?

Hint: “Decade of Decay Book” launched before election – policy paralysis of the previous government.

http://freepressjournal.in/10-year-a-decade-of-decay/

http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/policy-paralysis-will-be-a-thing-of-the-past/article6033453.ece

http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/nda-ended-10-years-of-policy-paralysis-in-100-days-naqvi/1/380533.html

2.     Is sting operation an invasion on privacy?

3.     Fifty Golds in Olympics: Can this be a reality for India?

4.     Tourism: Can this be the next big thing for India?

Hint: Discussions triggered in Mygov.nic.in –

1. Best Practices for Tourism by State Governments and Across the World

2. Balance Growth in Tourism and Environment.

3. Make Popular Destinations More Tourist Friendly.

General Studies - Paper I

Culture (40m)

Syllabus Topic: Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times.

1.     To what extent has the urban planning and culture of the Indus Valley Civilization provided inputs to the present day urbanization? Discuss.

Hint/ Source:

 US Anthropologist – IVC – Urbanization & collapse – reason for the destruction lies in Economic, Social & Climate Factors.

Another popular Guy also triggered this debate on IVC & Urbanization - UNESCO – Proto Urbanization (Press Release)

http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1141/

Sarazm (Where land Begins) – Architecture & Town model; Metallurgy & Handicraft; Trans Eurasian Trade Route; Production of Manufacturing Goods;  

2.     Gandhara sculpture owed as much to the Romans as to the Greeks. Explain.

Hint/ Source:

http://asiasociety.org/new-york/exhibitions/buddhist-heritage-pakistan-art-gandhara

http://www.economist.com/blogs/prospero/2011/10/buddhist-heritage-pakistan

The Buddhist Heritage of Pakistan: Art of Gandhara reveals the complex cultural influences — from Scytho-Parthian to Greco-Roman traditions – The Beauty of Ancient Globalization. From Gandhara to Taxila - global civilization - the Hindu-Buddhist-Indo-Greek

3.     Taxila university was one of the oldest universities of the world with which were associated a number of renowned learned personalities of different disciplines. Its strategic location caused its fame to flourish, but unlike Nalanda, it is not considered as a university in the modern sense. Discuss.

Hint/ Source: Strategic ‘location’ – PM candidate – misinterpret Taxila in the Place of Nalanda during Election Campaign J :P

http://www.aicte-india.org/downloads/ancient.pdf (you can find this same line in this document without even a letter missing)

http://indianexpress.com/tag/nalanda-university-project/

Arthasasthra composed in Taxila… Chandra Gupta, Ayurvedi healer Charka studies in Taxila.. Strategist Kautilya was the Senior Faculty. Vedas & 18 Arts been taught there for students from their 16years of Age. Attracted students across the world until its destruction in 5^th century BCE, Place of Religious & Historic sanctity – seat of Vedic studies – in many reference there is disagreement to consider it as an University;

4.     Sufis and medieval mystic saints failed to modify either the religious ideas and practices or the outward structure of Hindu / Muslim societies to any appreciable extent. Comment.

Hint/ Source: (Sep 2015 to Nov 2015) Many articles on Sufism – who triggered it? 19^th Century Muslim Mystic or Modern days Sufi Saint Sai Baba Controversy – High Court & Supreme Court ruling.

http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2014-10-15/news/55059516_1_supreme-court-shankaracharya-swaroopanand-saraswati

http://www.outlookindia.com/article/The-Sai-Fidelity/291885

http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/oct/23/sufism-natural-antidote-fanaticism-the-sufis-idries-shah

http://www.frontline.in/the-nation/what-is-sufism/article6586419.ece

Sufi Saints of Medieval time – Bhakti movement – Concept of Moksha from Bhagavat Gita; Persian & Arabic element in to classical music – musical influence for spiritual ecstasy; Rituals of visiting Tomb of Sufi saint/ shrine – Architecture – love towards God; failed to modify either the religious ideas and practices or outward structure of H/M Societies Just to refer: Amir Khusrow, Salim Chishti, Najmuddin Kubra; progressive step is they build bridge across religions. They trigger one’s thinking.

Indian History (30m)

1.     The third battle of Panipat was fought in 1761. Why were so many empire-shaking battles fought at Panipat?

Hint/ Source:

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Evolution-of-Indian-military-From-Panipat-to-Festubert/articleshow/43541983.cms

2.     Examine critically the various facets of economic policies of the British in India from mid-eighteenth century till independence.

Hint/ Source:

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/indicators/lessons-18th-19th-century-india-offers-for-the-recent-great-recession-of-us-and-europe/articleshow/40866166.cms

3.     In what ways did the naval mutiny prove to be the last nail in the coffin of British colonial aspirations in India?

Hint/ Source:

http://www.outlookindia.com/article/The-Sailor-Song-Of-Rebellion/289705

http://www.niticentral.com/2014/11/25/ajit-doval-subhash-bose-british-india-246597.html (Our Senior already cautioned us about the question – trigger Bose Vs Gandhi Debate)

World History (30m)

Syllabus Topic: History of the world will include events from 18^th century such as industrial revolution, world wars, redrawal of national boundaries, colonization, decolonization, political philosophies like communism, capitalism, socialism etc.- their forms and effect on the society.

1.     What were the major political, economic and social developments in the world which motivated the anti-colonial struggle in India?

2.     What were the events that led to the Suez Crisis in 1956? How did it deal a final blow to Britain’s self-image as a world power?

3.     The New Economic Policy – 1921 of Lenin had influenced the policies adopted by India soon after independence. Evaluate.

Social issues (50m)

Role Of Women	1.     How does patriarchy impact the position of a middle class working woman in India?
Hint/ Source: Justice Ganguly case, Verma Committee,  1997 Vishaka Guidelines, Sexual Harrassment bill, Now Uber Case http://deity.gov.in/content/prevention-sexual-harassment-work-place AIR Spotlight – Dailogue on Women Safety & Responsibility of the Society.
Population Issues	2.     Why do some of the most prosperous regions of India have an adverse sex ratio for women? Give your arguments.
Hint/ Source: http://www.narendramodi.in/pm-invites-ideas-on-beti-bachao-beti-padhao-on-the-occasion-of-international-day-of-the-girl-child/ http://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/Child-Sex-Ratio-at-its-Lowest-Since-1947-Govt/2014/08/12/article2376253.ece
Population Issues	3.     The life cycle of a joint family depends on economic factors rather than social values. Discuss.
Hint/ Source:  70% Business in India are Family Controlled.
Role Of Women / Poverty-Development	4.     Discuss the various economic and socio-cultural forces that are driving increasing feminization of agriculture in India.
Hint/ Source: Women form half of the workforce in Agriculture – Bihar State Report. (Aug 2014) http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/patna/Report-Women-form-half-of-agriculture-workforce-in-state/articleshow/39438364.cms http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2014-02-10/news/47200620_1_construction-employment-infrastructure-investment-farm-workers
Secularism	5.     How do the Indian debates on secularism differ from the debates in the West?
Hint/ Source: Debate on Secularism – a marketing gimmick to confuse voter. Term ‘Secularism’ honour of Jawaharalal Nehru’s 125th Birth Anniversary. It is obvious to know that Indian Secularism is different from that of the Western connotation. The Big Picture RSTV – Are these elections a https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sCWtAAdf20I&list=PLVOgwA_DiGzoqQsGjmamTu6f453RWpm_I&index=173

Geography (100m)

Industrial Location (30m)

1.    Whereas the British planters had developed tea gardens all along the Shivaliks and Lesser Himalayas from Assam to Himachal Pradesh, in effect they did not succeed beyond the Darjeeling area. Explain.

Hint/ Source:

http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/coffee-to-invade-darjeeling-the-land-of-tea/article1-1184508.aspx

 Royal and costly Brew of Darjeeling Brand – to be available in bags. (July 2014 – Times of India, ET)

2.    Account for the change in the spatial pattern of the Iron and Steel industry in the world.

Hint/ Source: Jharkhand shuts 12 iron ore mines, it hits the Steel Industries

http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/jharkhand-shuts-12-iron-ore-mines-steel-plants-hit/article1-1260158.aspx

3.    Why did the Green Revolution in India virtually by-pass the eastern region despite fertile soil and good availability of water?

Physical Geography (20m)

1.    Explain the formation of thousands of islands in Indonesian and Philippines archipelagos.

2.    Why is the world’s fold mountain systems located along the margins of continents? Bring out the association between the global distribution of Fold Mountains and the earthquakes and volcanoes.

Climatology (30m)

1.    Tropical cyclones are largely confined to South China Sea, Bay of Bengal and Gulf of Mexico. Why?

2.    Most of the unusual climatic happenings are explained as an outcome of the El-Nino effect. Do you agree?

3.    Bring out the relationship between the shrinking Himalayan glaciers and the symptoms of climate change in the Indian sub-continent.

Resource distribution (20m)

1.    Critically evaluate the various resources of the oceans which can be harnessed to meet the resource crisis in the world.

2.    How does India see its place in the economic space of rising natural resource rich Africa?

Hint/ Source:

General Studies - Paper II

Constitution (50m)

1.     Starting from inventing the ‘basic structure’ doctrine, the judiciary has played a highly proactive role in ensuring that India develops into a thriving democracy. In light of the statement, evaluate the role played by judicial activism in achieving the ideals of democracy.

Hint/ Source:

2.     Though the federal principle is dominant in our Constitution and that principle is one of its basic features, but it is equally true that federalism under the Indian Constitution leans in favour of a strong Centre, a feature that militates against the concept of strong federalism. Discuss.

Hint/ Source:

3.     The ‘Powers, Privileges and Immunities of Parliament and its Members’ as envisaged in Article 105 of the Constitution leave room for a large number of un-codified and un-enumerated privileges to continue. Assess the reasons for the absence of legal codification of the ‘parliamentary privileges’. How can this problem be addressed?

Hint/ Source:

4.     Instances of President’s delay in commuting death sentences has come under public debate as denial of justice. Should there be a time limit specified for the President to accept/reject such petitions? Analyse.

Hint/ Source: 21^st Jan 2015 – AIR News Analysis – SC on Mercy Petition

5.     What do you understand by the concept “freedom of speech and expression”? Does it cover hate speech also? Why do the films in India stand on a slightly different plane from other forms of expression? Discuss.

Hint/ Source:

Governance, Administration, Bodies (30m)

syllabus topic	Question asked
structure-functioning of executive	The size of the cabinet should be as big as governmental work justifies and as big as the Prime Minister can manage as a team. How far the efficacy of a government then is inversely related to the size of the cabinet? Discuss.
Hint/ Source: Minimum Government with Maximum Governance 10th July 2014 – RSTV Policy Watch- PM developing direct line of communication with the bureaucracy. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2hvdyJz9vxk&index=28&list=PL5A1EFF827E94624E
role of civil service	Has the Cadre based Civil Services Organisation been the cause of slow change in India? Critically examine.
Hint/ Source:
Various bodies	National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in India can be most effective when its tasks are adequately supported by other mechanisms that ensure the accountability of a government. In light of the above observation assess the role of NHRC as an effective complement to the judiciary and other institutions in promoting and protecting human rights standards.
Hint/ Source: Importance of NHRC arises at many instants past span of 10 months’ time – IPC 377, Communal Violence bill empowers NHRC (Frontline Article), Delhi medical negligence.

Policies: Economic sectors (20m)

Syllabus Topic: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.

1.     Though 100 percent FDI is already allowed in non-news media like a trade publication and general entertainment channel, the Government is mulling over the proposal for increased FDI in news media for quite some time. What difference would an increase in FDI make? Critically evaluate the pros and cons.

Hint/ Source:

2.     The setting up of a Rail Tariff Authority to regulate fares will subject the cash strapped Indian Railways to demand subsidy for obligation to operate non-profitable routes and services. Taking into account the experience in the power sector, discuss if the proposed reform is expected to benefit the consumers, the Indian Railways or the private container operators.

Hint/ Source: 21^st June 2014 – All India Radio – News Analysis – Hike in Railway Fair, 8^th July 2014 – Interview with Railway minister;

Policies: HRD /Welfare type (50m)

1.     The penetration of Self Help Groups (SHGs) in rural areas in promoting participation in development programmes is facing socio-cultural hurdles. Examine.

Hint/ Source:

2.     Do government’s schemes for up-lifting vulnerable and backward communities by protecting required social resources for them, lead to their exclusion in establishing businesses in urban economics?

Hint/ Source:

3.     An athlete participates in Olympics for personal triumph and nation’s glory; victors are showered with cash incentives by various agencies, on their return. Discuss the merit of state sponsored talent hunt and its cultivation as against the rationale of a reward mechanism as encouragement.

Hint/ Source:

4.     Should the premier institutes like IITs/IIMs be allowed to retain premier status, allowed more academic independence in designing courses and also decide mode/criteria of selection of students. Discuss in light of the growing challenges.

Hint/ Source:

5^th Feb 2014 – All India Radio News Analysis – Economic Criteria in Reservation in Selection.

Academic Independence - http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/ugc-on-iit-controversy-letter-misconstrued-as-encroachment/1/379021.html

5.     Two parallel run schemes of the Government viz. the Adhaar Card and NPR, one as voluntary and the other as compulsory, have led to debates at national levels and also litigations. On merits, discuss whether or not both schemes need run concurrently. Analyse the potential of the schemes to achieve developmental benefits and equitable growth.

Hint/ Source:

IR/Diplomacy (50m)

1.     With respect to the South China sea, maritime territorial disputes and rising tension affirm the need for safeguarding maritime security to ensure freedom of navigation and over flight throughout the region. In this context, discuss the bilateral issues between India and China.

Hint/ Source:        

China’s New Maritime Silk Route (24 Feb 2014 – India’s World RSTV)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SuCtlyjJMc8&list=PLVOgwA_DiGzpWrMV__M9_rHINn7PzABlM&index=43

Direction of India China Ties (24 Sep 2014 – India’s World RSTV)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oBLRMg5yQnM&list=PLVOgwA_DiGzpWrMV__M9_rHINn7PzABlM&index=9

India rebuff China in Arunachal Border (21^st Oct 2014 – India’s World RSTV)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oBLRMg5yQnM&list=PLVOgwA_DiGzpWrMV__M9_rHINn7PzABlM&index=9

China’s Interest in Afghan (10^th Nov 2014 – India’s World RSTV)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=054PCG08vCA&list=PLVOgwA_DiGzpWrMV__M9_rHINn7PzABlM&index=7

2.     The aim of Information Technology Agreements (ITAs) is to lower all taxes and tariffs on information technology products by signatories to zero. What impact should such agreements have on India’s interests?

Hint/ Source: Hindu Business Line (11 July 2014) – Interview with Shaktikanta Das, Revenue Secy. (he triggered this discuss in this Interview.)

https://www.google.co.in/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=newssearch&cd=94&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CCEQqQIoADADOFo&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thehindubusinessline.com%2Feconomy%2Fpolicy%2Fboth-stt-ctt-rates-are-already-very-low%2Farticle6201568.ece&ei=8-iUVIr8A4ykuQT4-YHICQ&usg=AFQjCNF6pyXXo1w4gkNdq_AS9FWYY-PnSA&bvm=bv.82001339,d.c2E

3.     Some of the International funding agencies have special terms for economic participation stipulating a substantial component of the aid to be used for sourcing equipment from the leading countries. Discuss on merits of such terms and if, there exists a strong case not to accept such conditions in the Indian context.

Hint/ Source:

4.     India has recently signed to become founding a New Development Bank (NDB) and also the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) .How will the role of the two Banks be different? Discuss the significance of these two Banks for India.

Hint/ Source: 22^nd July 2014 – RSTV: India’s World – BRICS Bank

China’s AIIB on the lines of ADB; 27^th July – RSTV: Policy Watch – BRICS Bank

http://businesstoday.intoday.in/story/asian-infrastructure-investment-bank-narendra-modi/1/211641.html

5.     WTO is an important international institution where decisions taken affect countries in profound manner. What is the mandate of WTO and how binding are their decisions? Critically analyse India’s stand on the latest round of talks on Food security.

Hint/ Source: 28 July 2014 – RSTV:Policy Watch – India oppose TFA.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0hEvUiEgZuc&index=21&list=PL5A1EFF827E94624E

4^th Aug 2014  - AIR News Analysis.

29^th July 2014 – RSTV:The Big Picture – WTO Negotiation – will India stick to its stand

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ra1FBiIo_iU&list=PLVOgwA_DiGzoqQsGjmamTu6f453RWpm_I&index=100

General Studies - Paper III

Economy (5 Qs | 62.5 marks)

1.     Normally countries shift from agriculture to industry and then later to services, but India shifted directly from agriculture to services. What are the reasons for the huge growth of services vis-a-vis industry in the country? Can India become a developed country without a strong industrial base?

Hint/ Source: Debate trigger at Make in India campaign

24^th July 2014 – RSTV Policy Watch – Key fundamental macro-economic Data

2.     While we found India’s demographic dividend, we ignore the dropping rates of employability. What are we missing while doing so? Where will the jobs that India desperately needs come from? Explain.

Hint/ Source: 24^th July – All India Radio – News Analysis – Focus on Skill Development;

1^st July 2014 – RSTV Policy Watch – Jobs & employment - India Exclusion Report (2013-14)

3.     The right to fair compensation and transparency land acquisition, rehabilitation and resettlement act, 2013 has come into effect from 1 January 2014. What implication would it have on industrialization and agriculture in India?

Hint/ Source:

Transparency in Land Acquisition bill – (31^st Aug 2013 – RSTV: The Big Picture) also in many other debates of RSTV – LARR compensation & transparency had a say.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b5s8bN064WA&list=PLVOgwA_DiGzoqQsGjmamTu6f453RWpm_I&index=278

4.     Capitalism has guided the world economy to unprecedented prosperity. However, it often encourages shortsightedness and contributes to wide disparities between the rich and the poor. In this light, would it be correct to believe and adopt capitalism driving inclusive growth in India? Discuss. (Statement lifted from Business-world column, 27^th June 2014)

Hint/ Source: linking Capitalism & Inclusive Growth – India being a Mixed Economy – compromise neither Welfare State nor Capitalist State. (Simple debate trigger on this line would have helped better)

http://www.thehindu.com/books/books-reviews/interrogating-inclusive-growth-book-review/article6561553.ece

http://www.frontline.in/books/the-two-indias/article6365042.ece

The Big Picture - RSTV – 13^th Aug 2014 – Crony Capitalism – Debate trigger after usage of this term by RBI Gov.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OptgL-lT6Dc&list=PLVOgwA_DiGzoqQsGjmamTu6f453RWpm_I&index=90

5.     Foreign direct investment in the defence sector is now said to be liberalized. What influence this is expected to have on Indian defence and economy in the short and long run?

Hint/ Source: FDI in Railway, Defence has been hiked.

ET, Business Standards, and RSTV Policy Watch (. (June – Aug 2014)

Policy Watch – RSTV – 12^th Aug 2014

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hdcgziV0xh8&index=19&list=PL5A1EFF827E94624E

FDI in Railway, Defence has been hiked.

http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2014-06-26/news/50884967_1_defence-sector-largest-defence-importers-defence-manufacturing

http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2014-07-20/news/51780273_1_fdi-today-defence-production-defence-market

http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2014-07-03/news/51057412_1_defence-sector-fdi-cap-defence-production

Linking FDI in Defence with Market http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2014-08-07/news/52556152_1_fdi-limits-fdi-hike-rajat-rajgarhia

Also Defence Capability – AIR News Analysis – 26^th Jan 2014

Infrastructure & investment (2 Qs | 25 marks)

Syllabus Topic: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc.; Investment models.

1.     Explain how private public partnership agreements, in longer gestation infrastructure projects, can transfer unsuitable liabilities to the future. What arrangements need to be put in place to ensure that successive generations’ capacities are not compromised?

Hint/ Source: 26 June 2014 – Policy Watch – Challenges in Infrastructure Sector

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MDZnQiSHIh8&list=PL5A1EFF827E94624E&index=27

2.     National urban transport policy emphasizes on moving people instead of moving vehicles. Discuss critically the success of various strategies of the government in this regard.

Hint/ Source:

http://www.business-standard.com/article/opinion/m-ramachandran-urban-transport-in-focus-finally-114061400932_1.html

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/Transport-SPV-Government-corporation-on-war-path/articleshow/35416943.cms

Agriculture (2 Qs | 25 marks)

1.     There is also a point of view that agriculture produce market committees (APMCs) set up under the state acts have not only impeded the development of agriculture but also have been the cause of food inflation in India. Critically examine.

Hint/ Source: The Big Picture RSTV – Does APMC Act need Reform?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Xf3tZIn6lc&list=PLVOgwA_DiGzoqQsGjmamTu6f453RWpm_I&index=116

2.     “In the villages itself no form of credit organisation will be suitable except the cooperative society.” – All Indian rural credit survey. Discuss this statement in the background of agriculture finance in India. What constrain and challenges do financial institutions supplying agricultural finances? How can technology be used to better reach and serve rural clients?

Hint/ Source: Agri Financing – Capital formation for Agri – Cooperative Society & Technology – Linking all this Aspects

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yAe0xgISoX8&list=PLVOgwA_DiGzoqQsGjmamTu6f453RWpm_I&index=31(The Big Picture – Global Agri Price Crash – Impact on India -6^th Nov 2014)

2^nd Aug 2014 –AIR News Analysis – Science & Technology for Agriculture.

Science Tech (3 Qs | 37.5 marks)

1.     Can overuse and the availability of antibiotics without doctor’s prescription, the contributors to the emergence of drug-resistant diseases in India? What are the available mechanisms for monitoring and control? Critically discuss the various issues involved.

Hint/ Source: Important guy have triggered this discussion in May 2014

http://www.who.int/mediacentre/news/releases/2014/amr-report/en/ (WHO press release, 30 May 2014)

28^th July – RSTV Policy Watch - Health Care in India

2.     Scientific research in Indian universities is declining, because a career in science is not as attractive as our business operations, engineering or administration, and the universities are becoming consumer oriented. Critically comment.

Hint/ Source:

3.     In a globalised world, intellectual property rights assume significance and are a source of litigation. Broadly distinguish between the terms – copyrights, patents and trade secrets.

Hint/ Source: From Basics- Most Expected.

Khadi- Trade mark Issue with German, Bayer’s Nexavar.

India in IPR ‘Watch List’ (30 May 2014)

http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/world/us-trade-representative-retains-india-on-ipr-watch-list/article5963674.ece

Environment (3 Qs | 37.5 marks)

1.     Should the pursuit of carbon credit and clean development mechanism set up under UNFCCC be maintained even through there has been a massive slide in the value of carbon credit? Discuss with respect to India’s energy needs for economic growth. Issue discussed in Business world 21st January 2014, and sufficient bullets available

2.     Drought has been recognized as a disaster in view of its party expense, temporal duration, slow onset and lasting effect on various vulnerable sections. With a focus on the September 2010 guidelines from the National disaster management authority, discuss the mechanism for preparedness to deal with the El Nino and La Nina fallouts in India.

Hint/ Source: Debates triggered on these lines – All India Radio – News Analysis / Spotlight: 20^th July 2014 – Monsoon & Agri Prospective, 10^th June & 28^th June – preparedness to tackle Deficit Monsoon, 1^st July – Impact of monsoon, 31^st July – role of NDMA; 8^th Aug – Govt’s Initiatives in Rain Deficit states;

10^th July 2014 – Policy Watch RSTV – RBI Bi-monthly policy Review – RBI Gov. – preparedness to Tackle Deficit Monsoon – El Nino

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2hvdyJz9vxk&index=28&list=PL5A1EFF827E94624E

3.     Environmental impact assessment studies are increasingly undertaken before project is cleared by the government. Discuss the environmental impacts of coal-fired thermal plants located at Pitheads.

Hint/ Source:

24^th July 2014 – AIR News Analysis – Interview with MoEFCC

24^th Aug & 25^th Sep – Coal Block Allocation & SC verdict.

7^th June 2014 – AIR News Analysis – Online Environmental Clearance.

Security (5 Qs | 62.5 marks)

1.     The diverse nature of India as a multi-religious and multi-ethnic society is not immune to the impact of radicalism which has been in her neighborhood. Discuss along with the strategies to be adopted to counter this environment. (Been in news after Al-Qaeda threat to India and US report on counter-terror measures in India).

Hint/ Source:

Srilankan Ethinic Crisis – RSTV: India’s World 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nEobvhh9tOU&list=PLVOgwA_DiGzpWrMV__M9_rHINn7PzABlM&index=96

Al- Qaeda comes to Indian Subcontinent – RSTV: India’s World – 10^th Sep 2014

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dnkg5HOCdaY&list=PLVOgwA_DiGzpWrMV__M9_rHINn7PzABlM&index=15

2.     International civil aviation laws provide all countries complete and exclusive severity over the airspace above the territory. What do you understand by airspace? What are the implications of these laws on the space above this airspace? Discuss the challenges which this poses and suggests ways to contain the threat.

Hint/ Source:

3.     How illegal transborder migration does pose a threat to India’s security? Discuss the strategies to curb this, bring out the factors which give impetus to such migration. (Been in news for a long time due to election speeches of Modi and issue of Rohingya migrants.)

Hint/ Source:

Will LBA check illegal Migration? – 2^nd Dec 2014 – RSTV: The Big Picture

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K8oSYIHU68o&list=PLVOgwA_DiGzoqQsGjmamTu6f453RWpm_I&index=13

4.     In 2012, the longitudinal marking of the high-risk areas for piracy was moved from 65° East to 78° east in the Arabian Sea by International Maritime organisation. What impact does this have on India’s maritime security concerns? (Statement resurfaced Hindu 14/Jan/14 but not much hardcore points. Same with NewIndianexpress)

Hint/ Source:

5.     China and Pakistan have entered into an agreement for development of an economic corridor. What thread does it dispose for India’s security? Critically examine. (Talks were on going since mid-2013s, but official launch news appeared in  1^st Dec’14 Hindu. Moral of the story: one should keep reading it even if exam is near.)

Hint/ Source:

General Studies - Paper IV

SECTION—A (Bol-bachchan Questions) 130m

Each of the following questions is worth 10 marks and 150 words.

1.      All human beings aspire for happiness. Do you agree? What does happiness mean to you? Explain with examples.

Hint/ Source: (UPSC demand Bit Introspection rather than completion of syllabus)

http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/sep/05/were-we-happier-in-the-stone-age

2.      What does ethics seek to promote in human life? Why is it all the more important in public administration?

Hint/ Source:

3.      In the context of defence services, ‘patriotism’ demands readiness to even lay down one’s life in protecting the nation. According to you, what does patriotism imply in everyday civil life? Explain with illustrations and justify your answer.

Hint/ Source: (General Topic – mere discussion/ brainstorming would help, And for information I have handled a Discussion on this topic to Anna University first years, an year back)

Swachh Bharat – ‘It is not Politics, but patriotism’ – Shri Narendra Modi – on 2^nd Oct 2014.

4.      What do you understand by ‘probity’ in public life? What are the difficulties in practicing it in the present times? How can these difficulties be overcome?

Hint/ Source: Polity and Criminality – BS Editorial – Court Raise bar on Probity in public life – criminality in politics.

5.      “Integrity without knowledge is weak and useless, but knowledge without integrity is dangerous and dreadful.” What do you understand by this statement? Explain your stand with illustrations from the modern context.

Hint/ Source:

6.      “Human beings should always be treated as ‘ends’ in themselves and never as merely `means’.” Explain the meaning and significance of this statement, giving its implications in the modern techno-economic society.

Hint/ Source:

7.      Which eminent personality has inspired you the most in the context of ethical conduct in life? Give the gist of his/her teachings giving specific examples, describe how you have been able to apply these teachings for your own ethical development.

Hint/ Source:

8.      There is a heavy ethical responsibility on the public servants because they occupy positions of power, handle huge amounts of public funds, and their decisions have wide-ranging impact on society and environment. What steps have you taken to improve your ethical competence to handle such responsibility?

Hint/ Source:

9.      The current society is plagued with widespread trust-deficit. What are the consequences of this situation for personal well-being and for societal well-being? What can you do at the personal level to make yourself trustworthy?

10. It is often said that poverty leads to corruption. However, there is no dearth of instances where affluent and powerful people indulge in corruption in a big way. What are the basic causes of corruption among people? Support your answer with examples.

Hint/ Source: 2G, CWG, Coal Scam, Sahara, Reliance.

11. What factors affect the formation of a person’s attitude towards social problems? In our society, contrasting attitudes are prevalent about many social problems. What contrasting attitudes do you notice about the caste system in our society? How do you explain the existence of these contrasting attitudes?

Hint/ Source:

12. What does ‘accountability’ mean in the context of public service? What measures can be adopted to ensure individual and collective accountability of public servants?

Hint/ Source:

13. We are witnessing increasing instances of sexual violence against women in the country. Despite existing legal provisions against it, the number of such incidences is on the rise. Suggest some innovative measures to tackle this menace.

Hint/ Source:

SECTION—B (Stupid case studies) 120m

Case: Environment degradation (20m)

Now-a-days, there is an increasing thrust on economic development all around the globe. At the same time, there is also an increasing concern about environmental degradation caused by development. Many a time, we face a direct conflict between developmental activity and environmental quality. It is neither feasible to stop or curtail the development process, nor it is advisable to keep degrading the environment, as it threatens our very survival.

Discuss some feasible strategies which could be adopted to eliminate this conflict and which could lead to sustainable development. 250 words

Case: Ethics not essential (20m)

Suppose one of your close friends, who is also aspiring for civil services, comes to you for discussing some of the issues related to ethical conduct in public service. He raises the following points :

1.      In the present times, when unethical environment is quite prevalent, individual attempts to stick to ethical principles may cause a lot of problems in one’s career. It may also cause hardship to the family members as well as risk to one’s life. Why should we not be pragmatic and follow the path of least resistance, and be happy with doing whatever good we can?

2.      When so many people are adopting wrong means and are grossly harming the system, what difference would it make if only a small minority tries to be ethical? They are going to be rather ineffective and are bound to get frustrated.

3.      If we become fussy about ethical considerations, will it not hamper the economic progress of our country? After all, in the present age of high competition, we cannot afford to be left behind in the race of development.

4.      It is understandable that we should not get involved in grossly unethical practices, but giving and accepting small gratifications and doing small favours increases everybody’s motivation. It also makes the system more efficient. What is wrong in adopting such practices?

Critically analyze the above viewpoints. On the basis of this analysis, what will be your advice to your friend? 250 words.

Case: Bogus rape complaint (20m)

You are a no-nonsense, honest officer. You have been transferred to a remote district to head a department that is notorious for its inefficiency and callousness. You find that the main cause of the poor state of affairs is the indiscipline of a section of employees. They do not work themselves and also disrupt the working of others. You first warned the troublemakers to mend their ways or else face disciplinary action. When the warning had little effect, you issued a show cause notice to the ringleaders. As a retaliatory measure, these troublemakers instigated a woman employee amongst them to file a complaint of sexual harassment against you with the Women’s Commission. The Commission promptly seeks your explanation. The matter is also publicized in the media to embarrass you further. Some of the options to handle this situation could be as follows :

1.      Give your explanation to the Commission and go soft on the disciplinary action.

2.      Ignore the Commission and proceed firmly with the disciplinary action.

3.      Brief your higher-ups, seek directions from them and act accordingly.

Suggest any other possible option(s). Evaluate all of them and suggest the best course of action, giving your reasons for it.

Case: give bribe or end career (20m)

Suppose you are the CEO of a company that manufactures specialized electronic equipment used by a government department. You have submitted your bid for the supply of this equipment to the department. Both the quality and cost of your offer are better than those of the competitors. Yet the concerned officer is demanding a hefty bribe for approving the tender. Getting the order is important both for you and for your company. Not getting the order would mean closing a production line. It may also affect your own career. However, as a value-conscious person, you do not want to give bribe.

Valid arguments can be advanced both for giving the bribe and getting the order, and for refusing to pay the bribe and risking the loss of the order. What those arguments could be? Could there be any better way to get out of this dilemma? If so outline the main elements of this third way, pointing out its merits. 250 words.

Case: disillusioned UPSC topper (20m)

Rameshwar successfully cleared the prestigious civil services examination and was excited about the opportunity that he would get through the civil services to serve the country. However, soon after joining the services, he realized that things are not as rosy as he had imagined.

He found a number of malpractices prevailing in the department assigned to him. For example, funds under various schemes and grants were being misappropriated. The official facilities were frequently being used for personal needs by the officers and staff. After some time, he noticed that the process of recruiting the staff was also not up to the mark. Prospective candidates were required to write an examination in which a lot of cheating was going on. Some candidates were provided external help in the examination. Rameshwar brought these incidents to the notice of his seniors. However, he was advised to keep his eyes, ears and mouth shut and ignore all these things which were taking place with the connivance of the higher-ups. Rameshwar felt highly disillusioned and uncomfortable. He comes to you seeking your advice.

Indicate various options that you think are available in this situation. How would you help him to evaluate these options and choose the most appropriate path to be adopted? 250 words.

Case: Why villagers migrate? (20m)

In our country, the migration of rural people to towns and cities is increasing drastically. This is causing serious problems both in the rural as well as in the urban areas. In fact, things are becoming really unmanageable. Can you analyze this problem in detail and indicate not only the socio-economic but also the emotional and attitudinal factors responsible for this problem? Also, distinctly bring out why—

1.      Educated rural youth are trying to shift to urban areas;

2.      Landless poor people are migrating to urban slums;

3.      Even some farmers are selling off their land and trying to settle in urban areas taking up petty jobs.

4.      What feasible steps can you suggest which will be effective in controlling this serious problem of our country?

Final findings:

As an Aspiring Civil Servant, what UPSC direct us to understand is the Ground Reality rather than common man’s grass tip knowledge. So, to get better picture of the functioning of Government we need to follow.

1. Interviews/ opinions of Secretaries, Experts, Govt. Advisors (RSTV, Hindu Business Line AIR News Analysis) – It help us to get inside about the Government functioning.

2. Trigger Debate on Essential Topics – Inputs can be from various Newspapers – The Hindu the base material, apart from this many debates are triggered by (The Guardian, New Indian Express, The Economic Times, Business Standards, The Guardian, New York Times) – It is not necessary that we must have read all the 20-25 pages of the newspaper.

3. Major Issues covered by popular magazine which has their own Online Version free of cost.  (Frontline, Outlook-India, the Economist, India Today)

Unreachable:

How much we can stretch? Is this What UPSC expecting from us?

Source	Pages / Content	Remarks
Newspapers	25pages X 10 Newspapers	250 pages of A3 size every day, It is impossible for any Individual even from Mars. (The Hindu, Economic Times, Business Standard, The Guardian, New Indian Express, Times of India)
Magazines	Frontline – 2 per month The Economist – 4 per month Outlook India – 2 per month Yojana, Kurukshetra, Down to Earth, Science Reporter – 1 per month	Each magazine has pages ranging from 75 – 150 even 200. So minimum calculation –  (150 X 2) = 300 pages per month  (200 X 4) = 800 pages per month  (75 X 2) = 150 pages per month (50 X 4) = 200 pages per month
TV Debates & Radio Debates	News Analysis/ Spotlight (All India Radio) – every day 15 minutes Current Affairs (All India Radio) – every week 30 minutes Country Wide & Money Talk (All India Radio) – every week 30 + 30 Minutes RSTV Debates – Policy watch, India’s World, The Big Picture, Science Monitor, Eureka, State of Economy – every week 30 minutes each	Time Required by an Individual (15 minutes X 7) = 105minutes per week. (30 minutes X 3) = 90 minutes per week. (30 minutes X 6) = 180 minutes per week.
Other Sources of content	PRS India, Simply Decoded, Mrunal.org, Insight on India, Vision IAS, Mission IAS…. Etc.	Summary of Important Bills 3-4 pages in PRS, Important Topics in Simply decoded with 2-3 pages… etc. Approximately it would aggregate to some 100-150 pages per month.
All together what we required is		Person capable of covering 2000 pages every week excluding Newspaper. 8-9 hours every week exclusively for listening to these TV & Radio Debates. And all above have to revise these points frequently. (and I didn’t include writing practice)

So Conclusion:

It is not necessary that everyone must have gone through all these Articles from different Magazines, Programs, and News Daily. And it is also not a practical methodology. And also the UPSC don’t expect to these things, but simply they want us to think on these lines.

So what will be a Workable Plan?

What simply we can do is? People often term this Smart work rather hard work.

We can trigger a discussion and brainstorming on these topics. And to be careful, it should be a mere discussion rather than dragging it in to Debate. As we can allot only a day per week for this purpose, we should be more cautious about the time. So with this frequent discuss all through the weeks of Preparation will give a crystal clear understanding of issues & events, the UPSC questions can be answered with that general intellect. Obviously, it is not that easy to brainstorm on a naïve topic at the Exam hall, but this method will accumulate sufficient points to score 5/10 on each question, which is more than sufficient to stand above the crowd.

Once in a week we must make a way for discussion (10-15 guys) each taking responsibility for one particular source of Information. For eg. One can take RSTV Policy watch, another on AIR News Analysis, Other on Frontline and etc. Each topic can be give 15-20minutes, so altogether one single day can accommodate that week’s prospective areas of UPSC.

Triggering discussion on the topics appeared in those sources and consolidating points for future revision will make it much reliable than any source from market.

This is no way a substitute for an Individual effort. The Daily “The Hindu” is Basic source; everyone should follow it daily irrespective of these discussions. The changing pattern of UPSC, demand an extra push from us. This crowd-sourcing concept of Dr.Vivekanandan IRS, would give that required Dynamism.