Factors to consider before choosing an IAS coaching institute
Factors to consider before choosing an IAS coaching institute Preparing for the Civil service examination is a challenging task for the aspirants. It requires a great deal of discipline, hard work and strategies to crack one of the toughest exams in India. The Civil service aspirants seek the guidance of mentors or approach a coaching institute for civil service exam preparation. There are thousands of UPSC IAS coaching Academies in Kerala and the rest of the country. The civil service academies provide proper guidance to civil service aspirants regarding the syllabus, answer writing, time management and more importantly strategies for exam preparation. But one of the main concerns of civil service aspirants is to choose a Civil Service Academy for UPSC exam prep. It also raises the question in their mind as to what makes a good UPSC coaching institute and how to select one. Here are some of the things you need to remember while choosing a UPSC coaching academy for preparing for the UPSC prelims and mains examination. 1. Faculty Faculty is the lifeline of every civil service academy in India. They help to uphold the reputation of the academies. A well-qualified team of teaching staff can guide you better and can make a huge difference in the students’ lives. It is important to inquire about the qualification of the teaching staff, their experience, and the assistance provided by them before joining the academy. 2. Courses Offered and Timings Make sure you thoroughly go through the courses offered by the institute to understand what they are offering. Check with the institute about the duration and timings of the course, availability of the optional subjects of your choice and whether they provide online classes as well. 3. Study Material & Test Series Another thing to check before joining a civil service academy is the study material provided by the coaching institute. You have to inquire about what sort of learning materials they are providing to the students and whether they are providing updated and relevant content for preparing for the civil service examination. Test series are crucial for preparing for Civil service prelims and mains examination. Test series help students to cover the entire syllabus of the civil service exam. It helps the students to understand the exam pattern. Inquire about the test series provided by the academy and whether it comes with the course you are choosing. 4. Past Results and Student Reviews Before joining a civil service coaching institute, make sure to check the past track record of the academy. It is advisable to inquire about the institution and its teaching methods with current students or students who studied there. This will give you an idea about the functioning of the coaching institute and give you an insight into the teaching approach of the academy. 5. Budget-Friendly Fee structure plays a crucial role in choosing an academy. Get yourself familiar with the fees structure of the civil service coaching institute and compare it with the coaching services provided by them. You need to inquire whether test series and other exam related tests come under the amount you are paying or not. Civils360 is one of the best civil service academies in Trivandrum, Kerala that offers the best and affordable UPSC coaching for civil service aspirants. They have a well-qualified and experienced team of mentors who guide students to approach the exam with ease. To know more about the civil service coaching institute in Kerala Enroll today with the best civils service academy and take your first step towards yours Civils out journey. Feel free to reach to us for any inquiries, collaborations, or support. We’re here to help JOIN NOW
UPSC Prelims Mock Test 1 – Indian Polity
Free UPSC Prelims Mock Test 1 – Indian Polity 1. Which of the following statements is/are the characteristics of a constitutional government? It is a form of limited government The authority and powers of the government are restricted by the constitution and legalframeworks The head of state always havenominal powers in aconstitutional government. Select the correct answer using the codes given below (a) 1 only(b) 1 and 2(c) 1 and 3(d) 1,2 and 3 2. Consider the following grounds of ‘President Rule’ in India: Article 356 empowers the President to issue a proclamation, if he is satisfied that a situation has arisen in which the government of a state cannot be carried on in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution. Article 365 says that whenever a state fails to comply with or to give effect to any direction from the Centre, it will be lawful for the president to hold that a situation has arisen in which the government of the state cannot be carried on in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution. Which of the following statements is/are correct? (a) 1 only(b) 2 only(c) Both 1 and 2(d) Neither 1 nor 2 3. Consider the following statements: As per the January 2019 data released by RBI, the gross non- performing assets ratio of public sector banks is more than that of private banks. Under the Basel III norms, the Indian scheduled commercial banks are required to maintain a capital to risk-weighted assets ratio of 9%. Financial Stability Report is a biannual document released by the Department of Economic Affairs. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 1 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 4. ‘To protect monuments, places and objects of artistic or historic interest which are declared to be of national importance’ is included under the Constitution as a: (a) Directive Principles of State Policy(b) Fundamental Duties(c) Fundamental Rights(d) Preamble 5. Which of the following are the advantages of signing the ‘Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership’? It will provide market access for India’s goods and services exports. It can encourage greater investments and technology into India. It will deepen and strengthen India’s economic and technological cooperation with APEC member countries. Select the correct answer using the code given below. (a) 2 only (b) 1 and 2 only(c) 1 and 3 only(d) 1, 2 and 3 6. In which of the following amendment of Indian Constitution introduced a new provision to put restraint on the power of Parliament to extend a proclamation of President’s Rule beyond one year? (a) 41st Amendment Act(b) 42nd Amendment Act(c) 44th Amendment Act(d) 45th Amendment Act 7. With reference to the ‘Agri Export Zones’ (AEZ), consider the following statements: 1. Each AEZ focuses on a particular produce/product located in a contiguous area for the purpose of promoting the exports. 2. The concept of Agri Export Zone was introduced through Agriculture Export Policy, 2018. Select the incorrect answer using the code given below: (a) 1 only(b) 2 only(c) Both 1 and 2(d) Neither 1 nor 2 8. Which of the following was not a feature of the Government of India Act, 1919 ? (a) Provision for a bicameral legislature at the centre.(b) The Legislative Assembly in provinces would have an elected majority and control over ministers.(c) Communal representation was not only retained but extended.(d) Enlarged the electorates both for provinces and imperial legislature. 9.Consider the following statements: The fundamental Rights and Directive Principles together have been described as the ‘Conscience of the Constitution’ by GranvilleAustin DPSP are in the nature ofdirectives to all governments of the country including Central, State as well as local governments. Supreme Court, in the Minerva Mills case, has held that Fundamental Rights and DPSP are distinct scheme and DPSP can override Fundamental Rights. Select the correct answer using the code given below. (a) 1 and 2 only(b) 1 and 3 only(c) 2 and 3 only(d) 1,2and3 10. Right to travel abroad and right to fair trial is guaranteed under: (a) Article 21(b) Article 19(c) Article 20(d) Article 29 11. Which of the following rights given below is/are enjoyed by foreigners in India? 1. Right to freedom of profession 2. Right to information3. Right to free legal aidSelect the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1,2 and 3(b) 2 and 3 only(c) 1 and 2 only(d) 3 only 12. ‘Asia Reassurance Initiative Act ’, seen in the news in the context of affairs of which of the following? (a) China(b) NATO(c) USA(d) European Union 13. Consider the following statements about National Emergency:1. A revocation of emergency by President must be approved by the Parliament within one month.2. The President must revoke a proclamation of emergency if the LokSabha passes a resolution disapproving its continuation.Which of the statements given above is/are correct?(a) 1 only(b) 2 only(c) Both 1 and 2(d) Neither 1 nor 2 14. Consider the following statements about ‘Swastha Nagrik Abhiyan’.1. It aims to create awareness on health issues and influence the health seeking behavior of citizens to encourage healthy lifestyles.2. It is an important component of Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana.Which of the statements given above is/are correct?(a) 1 only(b) 2 only(c) Both 1 and 2(d) Neither 1 nor 2 15.Fundamental Duties were added in 1976. Which among these are Fundamental Duties?1. to protect every monument or place or object of artistic or historic interest2. to protect and improve the environment and to safeguard the forests and wildlife of the country3. to safeguard public property and to abjure violenceSelect the correct answer using the codes given below.(a) 1 and 2 only(b) 2 and 3 only(c) 3 only(d) 1, 2 and 3 16. Consider the following pairs Places in news CountryMannar – Sri LankaManbij – IraqMaidan Wardak – AfghanistanWhich of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?(a) 1 only(b) 1,2 and 3(c) 2 and 3 only(d) 1 and 3 only 17. Fundamental Rights are included under the basic structure doctrine laid down by the judiciary of India. This implies that:1. It cannot be amended by the Parliament in any case
India-Afghanistan Relations
India-Afghanistan Relations India and Afghanistan have a strong relationship based on historical and cultural links. India was among the first non-Communist states to recognize the government installed by the Soviet Union after its 1979 invasion of Afghanistan and also supported successive governments in Kabul until the rise of the Taliban in the 1990s. Like most countries, India never recognized the Taliban’s assumption of power in 1996 (only Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and the United Arab Emirates recognized the Taliban regime). Following the 9/11 attacks and the U.S.-led war in Afghanistan that resulted, ties between India and Afghanistan grew strong once again and thus India restored full diplomatic relations and has provided hundreds of millions of dollars in aid for Afghanistan’s reconstruction and development. Importance of Afghanistan for India Geostrategic Importance: For India, Afghanistan is geostrategically extremely critical in terms of outreach to the Central Asian Republics (CAR). Afghanistan shares a border with India’s Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK). Counterbalance to Pakistan: Afghanistan has been the battleground for an India-Pakistan proxy war since 2001 and India needs Afghanistan to get a better view of Pakistan and hence it is pertinent that it fosters positive relations. Afghanistan also denies strategic depth to Pakistan. The Pakistan-Afghanistan border remaining active denies Pakistan the opportunity of positioning additional military capabilities along its borders with India. India as a Major Power: India’s ability to mentor a nascent democracy will go a long way to demonstrate to the world that India is indeed a major power, especially a responsible one. Economic and Political Aspects: Afghanistan not only serves security and economic interests but is also closely tied to India’s vision of being a regional leader and a great power, coupled with its competition with China over resources. The gas pipeline project TAPI (Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India), which seeks to connect an energy-rich Central to South Asia is a major project concerning India. Afghanistan promises its deposits of energy raw materials and high-value mineral deposits. Indo-Afghan Bilateral Relations at a Glance In the recent past, India-Afghanistan relations have been further strengthened by the Strategic Partnership Agreement (SPA), which was signed between the two countries in 2011. India has employed a soft-power approach in Afghanistan. Commercial Relations: India has been a natural trading partner for Afghanistan and is the largest market in South Asia for its products. The total bilateral trade between India and Afghanistan for the year 2019-20 was at US Dollar 1.5 billion which has grown with the establishment of an air freight corridor in 2017. The balance of trade is heavily tilted in favor of India. Defense Ties: So far India has trained Afghan military personnel and gifted four military helicopters to the Afghan government as per the terms of the accord. On the other hand, India has not sent troops to Afghanistan during the two-decade-long stay by US-led international troops given that groups within the Pakistan-backed Taliban like the Haqqani network have in the past targeted Indian consulates as well as the Indian embassy in Kabul. Assistance for Different Projects with Vested Interests The SPA committed Indian assistance to help rebuild Afghanistan’s infrastructure and institutions, education and technical assistance for capacity-building in many areas, encourage investment in Afghanistan, and provide duty-free access to the Indian market Salma Dam: Also known as the Afghan-India Friendship Dam, the dam in Herat province was completed against many odds and inaugurated in 2016. Zaranj-Delaram Highway: The 218-km highway built by the Border Roads Organisation is of strategic importance to New Delhi, as it provides an alternative route into landlocked Afghanistan through Iran’s Chabahar port since Pakistan denies India’s overland access for trade with Afghanistan. Zaranj is located close to Afghanistan’s border with Iran. Parliament: The Afghan Parliament in Kabul was built by India at US Dollar 90 million. Stor Palace: The Aga Khan Trust for Culture completed the restoration of Stor Palace in Kabul, originally built in the late 19th century, and which was the setting for the 1919 Rawalpindi Agreement by which Afghanistan became an independent country. India has also contributed to the power, health, and education infrastructure in Afghanistan. India in Afghan Peace Talks So far the Indian involvement in Afghanistan has been centered on the needs of the people of Afghanistan and these have been in consultation with Afghanistan’s elected government. India has held the position that any peace process should be Afghan-led, Afghan-owned, and Afghan-controlled. India is also part of the Heart of Asia Conference which aims at settling the Afghan Crisis. India’s Change in Character in Peace Talks In the 1990s and 2000s, India was steadfastly opposed to any dealings with the Taliban. Later its position seems to have evolved over the years. In 2018, when Russia hosted Afghan and Taliban talks, India had sent a diplomatic delegation to Moscow. India also attended the inaugural session of Intra-Afghan Peace Talks at Doha in 2020. The evolution of India’s position is in sync with the evolution of the reality in Afghanistan with China, Russia, and the US reaching out to the Taliban for peace. Way Forward for India To seek peace in Afghanistan, there must be clarity on the kind of ‘end state’ that Afghans, as well as Afghanistan’s regional and international stakeholders, would accept. In the end, the key is to achieve peace within the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan — a system that is defined by its core values related to human rights, women’s rights, democracy, rule of law, and political inclusion. So far, to a large extent, India has been out of Afghan talks, where in contrast, Pakistan has played a pivotal role like the recent Troika Plus Meet. Thus India needs to be present in future multilateral talks and chalk out its strategy in consort with the elected government at Kabul. India needs to accept the Taliban and keeping out of the talks will erode our presence in the West Asian strategic space. Read 2021 UPSC Mains Full Questions JOIN NOW
India Sri Lanka Relations
India Sri Lanka Relations The relationship between India and Sri Lanka is more than 2,500 years old. Both countries have a legacy of intellectual, cultural, religious and linguistic interaction. In recent years, the relationship has been marked by close contacts at all levels. Trade and investment have grown and there is cooperation in the fields of infrastructure development, education, culture and defence. In recent years, significant progress in implementation of developmental assistance projects has further cemented the bonds of friendship between the two countries. The nearly three-decade long armed conflict between the Sri Lankan forces and the LTTE came to an end in May 2009. During the course of the conflict, India supported the right of the Sri Lankan Government to act against terrorist forces. India’s consistent position has been in favour of a negotiated political settlement, which is acceptable to all communities within the framework of a united Sri Lanka and is consistent with democracy, pluralism and respect for human rights. In 1987, the Indo-Sri Lankan accord also called the Rajiv Gandhi-Jayewardene accord was signed. It sought to give autonomy to the provinces of North and East where the Tamil population was in majority. This accord though could not be implemented. However, one of the provisions of this accord was implemented. It was the 13th amendment to the Sri Lankan constitution. Before this amendment, Sri Lanka had a unitary polity. This Amendment Act provided for federalism. It established Provincial Councils and introduced Tamil and Sinhalese as the national languages of Sri Lanka and provided for English as the link language. Economic Cooperation and Development Assistance Sri Lanka has long been a priority destination for direct investment from India. Sri Lanka is one of India’s largest trading partner in SAARC Trade between the two countries grew particularly rapidly after the entry into force of the India-Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement in March 2000. Bilateral trade in 2018 amounted to US $ 4.93 billion. Exports from India to Sri Lanka in 2018 were US$ 4.16billion, while exports from Sri Lanka to India are US$ 767 million. India is one of the largest investors in Sri Lanka with cumulative investments of around USD 1.239 billion. Last few years have also witnessed an increasing trend of Sri Lankan investments into India Sri Lanka is among the major recipients of development assistance from the Government of India. India’s overall commitment stands close to US$ 3 billion, out of which around US$ 560 million are purely in grants. The two nations are part of the Asian Tea Alliance which also has China, Japan and Indonesia, the other two important manufacturers of tea in the Asian continent. Debt Problem of Sri Lanka It is estimated that Sri Lanka’s total external debt is around USD 60 billion China, which regularly indulges in debt trap diplomacy, has already taken over the Hambantota Port from Sri Lanka for a 99-year lease. This was done due to non-repayment of loan. Countries like Srilanka, Surrendering national strategic assets to China is becoming a security threat to India as well. Read GS Full Notes Defence and Strategic Relations: Two navies participate in the SLINEX bilateral naval exercises. The two Armies participate in the Mitra Shakti bilateral exercises. Srilanka plays a major role in India’s ambition towards NET SECURITY PROVIDER IN THE IOR. Srilanka is considered as a strategic location to monitor the International Sea Lanes of Communication. The Hambantota port to which China had access is considered as the String of Pearls initiative developed by China to contain India’s strategic Growth. India and Srilanka participates in various international organisations such as SAARC, BIMSTEC etc. Cultural Relations The People of Indian Origin (PIOs) comprise Sindhis, Gujaratis, Memons, Parsis, Malayalis and Telugu speaking persons who have settled down in Sri Lanka and are engaged in various business ventures. The Cultural Cooperation Agreement has been signed between both the countries. Buddhism is a connecting link between India and Sri Lanka on religious lines. Education is another important area of cooperation between India and Sri Lanka. India offers scholarship slots annually to deserving Sri Lankan students. Tourism also forms an important link between India and Sri Lanka. India is the largest source of market for Sri Lankan tourism. Issues in India-Sri Lanka Ties The Death of Indian Fishermen: Many fishermen from the state of Tamil Nadu cross the maritime boundary to catch fish. It is generally believed that the catch is more prosperous on the Sri Lankan side. In January 2021, Sri Lanka reacted violently and their navy fired upon these fishermen and killed them on the spot. Indian boats have been fishing in the troubled waters of Palk Strait and the Gulf of Mannar for centuries. In 1974 and 1976 treaties were signed between the two countries to demarcate the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL). However, the treaties failed to factor in the hardship of thousands of traditional fishermen who were forced to restrict themselves to a meagre area in their fishing forays Fishermen often risk their lives and cross the IMBL rather than return empty-handed. To deal with the issue of detention of fishermen in a humane manner, India and Sri Lanka have set up a Joint Working Group (JWG) on Fisheries as the mechanism to help find a permanent solution Cancellation of the ECT Project at the Colombo Port Sri Lanka has unilaterally pulled out of a 2019 agreement with India and Japan for developing the strategic East Container Terminal (ECT) at the Colombo Port. India was disappointed with the decision as over 70 per cent of the transshipment business in the terminal is linked to India. Moreover, it is also of geostrategic interest for India, as the terminal is located in proximity to Colombo Port City, being developed by the Chinese. Both India and Japan officially expressed their disappointment with the decision. Jaffna Hybrid Energy Project The MS/Sinosolar-Etechwin joint venture (JV) was awarded the contract to install a hybrid renewable energy system on Nainativu, Delft, and Analaitivu islands off the Jaffna Peninsula. Citing security concerns, India registered a protest over the selection of the Chinese company to execute the project. A group of Sri Lankan Tamil leaders also objected to the project, noting
UPSC / IAS Optional Full Book List
UPSC / IAS Optional – Full Book/ Subject List The Civil Service examination is one of the prestigious and toughest examinations in India. Every year lakhs of aspirants attend the CSE exams to fulfill their dream of being civil servants. The Civil Service exam comprises of two stages: Civil Service Preliminary Exam Civil Service Mains Exam & Interview The candidates will attend the Mains exam after successfully clearing the Prelims exam. The Mains exam consists of 9 papers out of which 2 papers are of qualifying nature. The UPSC has a total of 26 optional subjects for the Civil Service Mains Exam. The candidates have to choose one optional subject for the Mains Exam. UPSC Full Optional Subjects Include Agriculture Animal Husbandry & Veterinary science Anthropology Botany Chemistry Civil Engineering Commerce & Accountancy Economics Electrical Engineering Geography Geology Law History Management Mathematics Mechanical Engineering Medical Science Philosophy Physics Public Administration Psychology Political Science & International Relations Sociology Statistics Zoology Literature of any of the following languages (Assamese, Bengali, Bodo, Dogri, Gujarati, Hindi, Kanada, kashmiri, Konkani, Marathi, Maithili, Malayalam, Manipuri, Nepali, Oriya, Punjabi, Sanskrit, Santhali, Sindhi, Tamil, Telugu, Urdu & English) Here is the booklist recommended by toppers and mentors for UPSC optional subjects. UPSC Optional Booklist for Geography Physical Geography – Majid Hussain Modern Physical Geography – Dr. Alan H. Strahler Certificate Physical and Human Geography – Goh Cheng Leong India – A Comprehensive Geography – D. R. Khullar Oxford Student Atlas Human Geography – Majid Hussain Geomorphology – Savindra Singh UPSC Optional Books for History History of Modern India –Bipan Chandra India’s Struggle For Independence – Bipan Chandra and Others India’s Ancient Past – R.S. Sharma Ashoka and the Decline of the Mauryas – Romila Thapar Spectrum’s A brief History of Modern India Comprehensive history of Medieval India from Twelfth to the Mid Eighteenth Century – Salma Ahmed Farooqui UPSC Optional Books for Medical Science Human Anatomy – B.D.Chaurasia Ganong’s Review of Medical Physiology Ananthanarayan and Paniker’s Textbook of Microbiology Biochemistry – S. Satyanarayana Textbook of Human Neuroanatomy – Inderbir Singh Textbook of Obstetrics – DC Dutta Howkins & Bourne Shaw’s Textbook Of Gynaecology UPSC Optional Books for Anthropology An Introduction to Social Anthropology by D.N.Majumdar & T. N. Madan Physical anthropology by P. Nath Anthropology by Ember and Ember Indian Anthropology – Nadeem Hasnain Tribal India – Nadeem Hasnain An Introduction to Anthropological thought ( Theories) – by Makhan Jha Best Books for UPSC Preparation Check Now UPSC Optional Booklist for Philosophy A History of Philosophy by Frank Thilly Indian Philosophy, A Counter Perspective by Dr Daya Krishna Existentialism: A Reconstruction by David Cooper An Introduction to Indian Philosophy- Dr. Dutta An Introduction to Political Theory by O P Gauba Philosophy of Religion by John H. Hick Contemporary Western Philosophy – Dr. B.K. Lal The voyage of Discovery – Dr. William F. Lawhead UPSC Optional Books for Mathematics Schaum’s outline on Linear Algebra Mathematical Analysis by Malik and Arora Ordinary and Partial Differential Equations by MD Raisinghania Schaum’s outline on Vector Analysis Analytic Geometry – Shanti Narayan, DK Jha, HC Sinha and Sharma UPSC Optional Books for Management Organizational Behavior – Stephen Robbins Marketing Management – Philip Kotler Fundamentals of Management – Madhushree Agarwal, Sanghamitra Bhattacharya, Stephen Robbins, David DeCenzo Cost and Management Accounting – MN Arora Strategic Management – Hill and Jones Management Informations System – Kenneth C. Laudon Financial Management – Prasanna Chandra UPSC Optional Books for Political Science A History Of Political Thought: Plato To Marx – Mukherjee and Susheela Ramaswamy Introduction to Political Theory – O P Gauba Foundations of Indian Political Thought – V R Mehta India’s Foreign policy – V P Dutt Global Politics – Andrew Heywood Politics – Andrew Heywood Does the Elephant Dance?: Contemporary Indian Foreign Policy – David M. Malone UPSC Optional Booklist for Psychology Psychology -Atkinson & Hilgard Textbook of Psychology – Robert Baron Introduction to Psychology -Morgan & King Psychology – Saundra Ciccarelli Social Psychology – Baron & Byrne Theories of Personality Hall & Lindzey Systems & Theories of Psychology – Krawiec & Chaplin Group Dynamics: The Psychology of Small Group Behavior – Marvin E. Shaw UPSC Optional Booklist for Public Administration Administrative Thinkers – Prasad and Prasad New Horizons of Public Administration – Mohit Bhattacharya Public Administration: Administrative Theories and Concepts – Fadia & Fadia Restructuring Public Administration A New Look – Mohit Bhattacharya Public Administration In India – S.R. Maheshwari How to Choose an IAS Academy Books for Sociology Sociology – Anthony Giddens Handbook of Indian Sociology – Veena Das Sociology Themes and Perspectives- Haralambos & Holborn Social change in modern India – M N Srinivas Modern Organization (Foundations of Modern Sociology) – Amitai Etzioni Books for Economics Microeconomics – Ahuja and Koutsyansis Macroeconomics – Ahuja and Mankiw Indian Economy – Ramesh Singh International Economics – Dominick Salvatore Public Finance – H.L. Bhatia Indian Economy – Mishra and Puri Indian Economy- Performance and Policies – Uma Kapila Optional Books for Commerce Accounting Corporate Accounting – Naseem Ahmed Income Tax book by- V.K. Singhania or Girish Ahuja Cost Accounting; Theory & Problems- Maheshwari & Mittal Financial Management Taxation- Income Tax, Service Tax & VAT Indian Financial System- M.Y. Khan Financial Institutions & Markets- L.M. Bhole Human Resource Management- C.B. Gupta Industrial Relations- T.N. Chabra and R.K. Suri Dynamics of Industrial Relations- C.B. Mamoria and Satish Mamoria Organisation Theory and Behaviour- B.P. Singha and T.N. Chabra Books for Agriculture Introduction To Horticulture – N. Kumar Handbook Of Agriculture By ICAR Principles of Agronomy- Yellamananda Reddy Plant Breeding By B.D. Singh Soil Science – D.K Das Genetics By B.D.Singh Physiology By Pandey & Singha Books for Botany Physiology and Biochemistry- Salisbury and Ross Cell And Molecular Biology- De Robertis E.D.P Genetics- Strickberger Economic Botany – S.L. Kochhar The Embryology of Angiosperms – S.S. Bhojwani and Bhatnagar Esau’s Plant Anatomy Books for Law VN Shukla’s Constitution of India revised by M.P. Singh The Constitution of India (Bare Act) – PM Bakshi Introduction to the Constitution of India – DD Basu Administrative Law – I.P.Massey International Law – Malcom N Shaw An
Shyama Prasad Mukherji Rurban Mission (SPMRM)
Shyama Prasad Mukherji Rurban Mission (SPMRM) Shyama Prasad Mukherji Rurban Mission (SPMRM)- The programme is designed to deliver catalytic interventions to rural areas on the threshold of growth. It is now a Centrally Sponsored Scheme. Shared between the Centre and the State in a ratio of 60:40 for Plain area States and 90:10 for Himalayan and NE States. Main objective of the scheme is bridging the rural-urban divide-viz: economic, technological and those related to facilities and services. Under the mission, the Central government in coordination with the district administration has taken measures to bring about multi-layered phased development of the rural gram panchayats and villages on the lines of urban cities with proper civic amenities keeping the soul of villages intact. A ‘Rurban cluster’, would be a cluster of geographically contiguous villages with a population of about 25000 to 50000 in plain and coastal areas and with a population of 5000 to 15000 in desert, hilly or tribal areas. These clusters typically illustrate potential for growth, have economic drivers and derive locational and competitive advantages. Read Also Operation Sadbhavana Objectives of SPMRM Bridging the rural-urban divide-viz: economic, technological and those related to facilities and services. Stimulating local economic development with emphasis on reduction of poverty and unemployment in rural areas. Spreading development in the region. Attracting investment in rural areas. Enroll today with the best civils service academy and take your first step towards your Civils journey. Feel free to reach out to us for any inquiries, collaborations, or support. We’re here to help. JOIN NOW
India Skills 2021
India Skills 2021 India Skills 2021 operates under the NSDC of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship. The World Skills India expert group is responsible for creating Team India that participates in the World Skills competition. In 2021, the NSDC is organizing more than fifty skill competitions. It includes welding, cyber security, painting, floristry, additive manufacturing, patisserie and others. It also included Abilympics. Abilympics is skill demonstrations by physically disabled persons. It is the country’s biggest skill competition. The winners of India Skills 2021 will participate in the World Skills competition. The World Skills competition is to be held in Shanghai, China in 2022. The winners will compete against 1500 participants from 60 different countries. The World Skills competition is called “Olympics of Skills”. The aim is to provide opportunity and platform to the emerging professionals to exhibit their skills. It facilitates cooperation among industries, governments and academicians. It helps the youths earn international recognition and reputation. It acts as a secretariat to the World Skills India and India Skills expert team. It creates and establishes linkages among different stakeholders participating in the competition. Red Sanders The species, Pterocarpus santalinus, is an Indian endemic tree species, with a restricted geographical range in the Eastern Ghats. The species is endemic to a distinct tract of forests in Andhra Pradesh. Red Sanders usually grow in the rocky, degraded and fallow lands with Red Soil and hot and dry climate. Red Sanders, known for their rich hue and therapeutic properties, are high in demand across Asia, particularly in China and Japan, for use in cosmetics and medicinal products as well as for making furniture, woodcraft and musical instruments. The International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) categorised the Red Sanders (or Red Sandalwood) again into the ‘endangered’ category in its Red List. Enroll today with the best civils service academy and take your first step towards your Civils journey. Feel free to reach out to us for any inquiries, collaborations, or support. We’re here to help. join now
India Maldives Relations
India Maldives Relations Maldives is an important member of SAARC. It is strategically located along major sea lanes in the Indian Ocean. A significant portion of world trade takes place through the Indian Ocean. All the energy supplies coming from Gulf nations pass through this area. Geo-Strategic Importance of Maldives to India: Located at the southern and northern parts of this island chain lies the two important sea lanes of communication (SLOCs). These SLOCs are critical for maritime trade flow between the Gulf of Aden and Gulf of Hormuz in West Asia and the Strait of Malacca in Southeast Asia. These are of vital importance for India since nearly 50% of India’s external trade and 80% of her energy imports transit these westward SLOCs in the Arabian Sea. Net Security Provider in the Indian Ocean Region: Maldives plays a major role in India’s ambition towards Net Security Provider in the Indian Ocean Region. India continuously aims to promote an ever-expanding area of peace and stability around it. Areas of Cooperation: Security Cooperation: Through the decades, India has rushed emergency assistance to the Maldives. Operation Cactus: In 1988, when armed mercenaries attempted a coup against President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, India sent paratroopers and Navy vessels and restored the legitimate leadership under Operation Cactus. Disaster Management: The 2004 tsunami and the drinking water crisis in Male a decade later were other occasions when India rushed assistance. At the peak of the continuing COVID-19 disruption, the Maldives has been the biggest beneficiary of the Covid-19 assistance given by India among its all of India’s neighbouring countries. When the world supply chains were blocked because of the pandemic, India continued to provide crucial commodities to the Maldives under Mission SAGAR. People To People Contact: Maldivian people attend educational institutions and uses the health care facilities in India. Tourism is the mainstay of Maldivian economy. The country is now a major tourist destination for some Indians and a job destination for others. Read GS Full Notes Issues in India- Maldives Relation: Political Instability: India’s major concern has been the impact of political instability in the neighbourhood on its security and development. Radicalisation: In the past decade or so, the number of Maldivians drawn towards terrorist groups like the Islamic State (IS) and Pakistan-based madrassas and jihadist groups has been increasing. China Angle: China’s strategic footprint in India’s neighbourhood has increased. The Maldives has emerged as an important ‘pearl’ in China’s “String of Pearls” construct in South Asia. Given the Maldives’s strategic location in the Indian Ocean, there are speculations about China trying to develop strategic bases in the archipelago. In 2014, an agreement with GMR(Indian Company) to built an airport in Mali was withdrawn by the Maldivian government. Way Forward: With India’s Neighbourhood First Policy, India can play a major role in the development of Maldives. However, for adherence to strategic comfort in relations, Maldives on its part should abide by its India First policy. UPSC Prelims Mock Test Enroll today with the best civils service academy and take your first step towards your Civils journey.Feel free to reach out to us for any inquiries, collaborations, or support. We’re here to help. CONTACT US
UPSC Mains Answer Writing Practice Test 1
Check All Mains Questions “Indian constitution has components that ensure its dynamic nature and that it changes with the needs of time.” Critically analyse (10 Marks) “Efficacy in the functioning of parliament has decreased over years.” Explain and suggest solutions. (10 Marks) What is meant by Parliamentary privileges? Comment on the factors that necessitate them (10 Marks) “The basic structure doctrine is the most important contribution of the judiciary in maintaining the sanctity of the Indian constitution.” Comment. (10 Marks) Analyse the progress made by Panchayati Raj institutions in the direction of democratic decentralisation and grass-root level development. (10 Marks) “The state legislative councils are dilatory chambers that do nothing but prolongs passage of bills and increase legislative expenses.” Critically analyse. (10 Marks) “Indian constitution was created borrowing ideas from a multitude of sources giving it unique characters that suit the unique nature of Indian society.” Analyse (15 Marks) “Though Indian federalism is also called bargaining federalism, often the centre holds disproportionate powers, making it a pseudo federalism”. Analyse (15 Marks) “The basis of Indian polity is a fine balance between legislature, executive and judiciary which is not a clearly delineated line, but created through cautious restraint and mutual respect between them”. Analyse (15 Marks) Compare and contrast presidential and parliamentary systems.Do you think it was right on the part of constitutional makers in choosing parliamentary system for India.?(15 Marks) Answer Key 1 . “Indian constitution has components that ensure its dynamic nature and that it changes with the needs of time”.Critically analyze (10 Marks) Answer: Indian Constitution is a living document that has provisions to change according to the needs of the people and time. Amendments to the Constitution: As per the Article 368, Constitution can be amended through simple or special majority to meet the needs of people. The recent amendments made by providing reservations to Economically Weaker Sections, constitutional backing to the National Commission for Backward Classes etc. can be attributed to the same. Similarly, 42nd Amendment Act has included provisions for secularism, socialism etc. as vision for the nature of India. Supreme Court through judicial review has enlarged the scope of judiciary. It gave verdicts that the decisions taken by Speaker in the Anti defection law is subject to judicial review. In addition, SC evolved the basic structure doctrine and put a brake on the unlimited amending power of the Parliament. The Directive Principles of State Policy are added as non justiciable feature considering the incapacity of the state post independence. Still, government has enacted progressive legislations to achieve the same. Thus, it can be mentioned that the Constitution has principles which allow for expanding in the future and it has to be adapted to the changes that may take place in human affairs. 2. “Efficacy in the functioning of parliament has decreased over years”Explain and suggest solutions. (10 Marks) Answer : As the deliberative and representative assembly, Parliament’s role in developing India has been crucial. But over several decades there has been a decline in the effectiveness of the Parliament as an institution of accountability and oversight.The instruments of accountability, the Parliament uses such as the committee system, motion on the floor etc have become increasingly dysfunctional. The declining standards of debates, decorum and discipline are very much evident. The nexus between politicians and business groups also degrades the parliamentary process. The decline of Parliament has taken an unprecedented rise due to the following- Decline in number of sittings in Indian Parliament. According to the analysis of PRS Legislative Research (PRS), against the average 127 days of sitting in the 1950s, Lok Sabha met only 74 times in 2012. Likewise, Rajya Sabha on an average meets 93 days a year in the 1950s. But it has reduced to merely 74 days in 2012 Decline in number of hours per sitting in Indian Parliament. The fifth Lok Sabha recorded an average sitting of 7 hours 38 minutes; the 7th Lok Sabha recorded an average sitting of 7 hours 9 minutes per sitting. In the 12th Lok Sabha, the average hour per sitting was only 6 hours 30 minutes. Decline in the duration of budget session in Indian Parliament. In 2006 Lok Sabha, more than 40% of bills were passed without even an hour of debate. In the year 2012, both Houses met for only 35 days but the irony is that 92 percent of budgetary proposals were put to vote without any discussion. Decline in the attendance of the Parliamentarians in Indian Parliament. As per the PSR report, during the 11th and 12th sessions of the fourteenth Lok Sabha, more than 75 percent members were below the median point of 16 or more days of attendance. The number of MPs whose attendance ranged from 0–5 days increased in the 12th session. Decrease in the number of questions answered in Indian Parliament. In 2009 session of Lok Sabha, out of 1100 questions admitted for question hour, only 266 were called in the house while rest could not be raised due to the paucity of time. Similarly, in 2012 only 144 questions in Lok Sabha and 157 questions in Rajya Sabha being answered orally, while others were left for written answers due to the paucity of time as a result of frequent disruptions. Declining standards of debates in Indian Parliament. The declining standards of debates in Parliament and the manner in which parliamentarians conduct themselves, forgetting that there is a huge difference between a fight on the floor of the house and a fight on the streets are pointers towards the lack of ability or merit in the parliamentarians. It is very much evident with the speech of our ex-President Mr. Pranab Mukherjee when he expressed his worry over declining debates and standards of Indian Parliament. For any strong democracy, it is very important Parliament function more efficiently and great issues should be discussed. 3. What is meant by Parliamentary privileges.? Comment on the factors that necessitate them (10 Marks) Answer : Parliamentary privileges are special rights, immunities, exceptions enjoyed by the members of the two houses of Parliament and their committees originally envisaged by the
NASA-ISRO NISAR Mission
NASA-ISRO NISAR Mission NASA and ISRO are collaborating on developing a satellite called NISAR, which will detect movements of the planet’s surface as small as 0.4 inches over areas about half the size of a tennis court. The satellite will be launched in 2022 from the Satish Dhawan Space Center in Sriharikota, India, into a near-polar orbit and will scan the globe every 12 days over the course of its three-year mission of imaging the Earth’s land, ice sheets and sea ice to give an “unprecedented” view of the planet. NISAR It’s an SUV-sized satellite that is being jointly developed by the space agencies of the US and India. The partnership agreement was signed between NASA and ISRO. NASA will provide one of the radars for the satellite, a high-rate communication subsystem for science data, GPS receivers and a payload data subsystem. ISRO, on the other hand, will provide the spacecraft bus, the second type of radar (called the S-band radar), the launch vehicle and associated launch services. NISAR is an all-weather satellite that’s going to give us an unprecedented ability to look at how Earth’s surface is changing. NISAR will be equipped with the largest reflector antenna ever launched by NASA and its primary goals include tracking subtle changes in the Earth’s surface, spotting warning signs of imminent volcanic eruptions, helping to monitor groundwater supplies and tracking the rate at which ice sheets are melting. Enroll today with the best civils service academy and take your first step towards your Civils journey. Feel free to reach out to us for any inquiries, collaborations, or support. We’re here to help. JOIN NOW
