Datasets:

sid-th26
/

mains_question

Question stringlengths 0 3.53k	Answer stringlengths 1 12.2k	prompt stringlengths 21 12.4k	__index_level_0__ int64 5 88.1k
The press council of India has suggested that Supreme Court of India frame guidelines for the media. Provide a critical evaluation of the suggestion.	The Press Council of India (PCI) suggested that the Supreme Court frame guidelines for the media as these would be in the interest of not only administration of justice and rights of the litigant public but also the media themselves. Point of view of PCI According to PCI, the media, both print and electronic, have been playing an important role in shaping and sustaining Indian democracy. The scheme of the Press Council Act itself shows that the intention of Parliament is to allow self-regulation by the media as far as possible. While the print media is within the purview of the Press Council Act, the electronic media is not. Therefore, it is desirable to lay down guidelines for both the print and electronic media to follow in reporting court proceedings, rather than making statutory rules. According to PCI, self-regulation is always better than statutory regulation. However, when any TV channel, newspaper or news agency fails to adhere to the guidelines laid down by this court, appropriate orders may be passed in the facts and circumstances of each case. CRITICISM The suggestion has been criticised as a futile exercise which would be detrimental to the rights of the press and destroy democracy in this country. The argument against the suggestion is that, -people were sovereign in India. That is the reason why even the right to freedom of press was not absolute in this country. It was instead left to Parliament to lay down reasonable restrictions on this freedom. All institutions in our democracy are people's institutions. Even the judiciary is accountable to the people. People have a right to know what is happening. -the anomaly of the court deciding to lay down guidelines which in this case would “abridge” the freedoms of individuals instead of “protecting” them or “disciplining” officials. -the exercise undertaken by the court was not prudent in view of globalisation of information dissemination technology. THE WAY OUT - if guidelines are laid down, they should not be coercive and punitive but normative.	##Question:The press council of India has suggested that Supreme Court of India frame guidelines for the media. Provide a critical evaluation of the suggestion.##Answer:The Press Council of India (PCI) suggested that the Supreme Court frame guidelines for the media as these would be in the interest of not only administration of justice and rights of the litigant public but also the media themselves. Point of view of PCI According to PCI, the media, both print and electronic, have been playing an important role in shaping and sustaining Indian democracy. The scheme of the Press Council Act itself shows that the intention of Parliament is to allow self-regulation by the media as far as possible. While the print media is within the purview of the Press Council Act, the electronic media is not. Therefore, it is desirable to lay down guidelines for both the print and electronic media to follow in reporting court proceedings, rather than making statutory rules. According to PCI, self-regulation is always better than statutory regulation. However, when any TV channel, newspaper or news agency fails to adhere to the guidelines laid down by this court, appropriate orders may be passed in the facts and circumstances of each case. CRITICISM The suggestion has been criticised as a futile exercise which would be detrimental to the rights of the press and destroy democracy in this country. The argument against the suggestion is that, -people were sovereign in India. That is the reason why even the right to freedom of press was not absolute in this country. It was instead left to Parliament to lay down reasonable restrictions on this freedom. All institutions in our democracy are people's institutions. Even the judiciary is accountable to the people. People have a right to know what is happening. -the anomaly of the court deciding to lay down guidelines which in this case would “abridge” the freedoms of individuals instead of “protecting” them or “disciplining” officials. -the exercise undertaken by the court was not prudent in view of globalisation of information dissemination technology. THE WAY OUT - if guidelines are laid down, they should not be coercive and punitive but normative.	5
Briefly explain the outcome of BRICS summit – 2012. Do you think that Global Politics is hijacking the core agenda of BRICS?	BRICS summit – 2012 - The fourth summit of BRICS largely focused on economic and development issues which included beginning the process for setting up a bank and inking two pacts to ease trade among each other. -The Delhi Declaration exhorted the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund to quickly realign their priorities and approach to the needs of the developing world. This is an agenda the five countries intend pursuing at the coming G-20 meeting in Mexico as well. -The leaders of BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa), weighed the consequences of setting up a “BRICS Bank . The leaders agreed that the bank should in no way emerge as a competitor to the World Bank and the IMF but provide funds for projects that do not find favour with these institutions. In line with their professed commitment to multilateralism in economic and political problem solving, the leaders agreed to invest more in the United Nations Conference on Trade & Development (UNCTAD) which played a major role in catering to the interests of developing countries. The five-nation grouping's formulation on Iran condemned the West's pressure tactics to make other countries obey their latest restrictions on trade ties, especially in the energy sphere. Saying that a conflict would have disastrous consequences, it wanted the two antagonists to resolve suspicions over Iran's nuclear programme through talks on multilateral fora. On Afghanistan, BRICS exhorted the international community to stay the course on the development front for 10 years after the West withdraws most of its combat troops by 2014-end. The summit also supported a middle-of-the-road resolution on Syria. Thus we see that a range of issues are tackled. BRICS being a grouping of world’s most populous and fastest growing countries cannot avoid its responsibility in Global Politics. However, we see a balanced approach here and economic and development agendas are not allowd to be hijacked by Global Politics	##Question:Briefly explain the outcome of BRICS summit – 2012. Do you think that Global Politics is hijacking the core agenda of BRICS?##Answer:BRICS summit – 2012 - The fourth summit of BRICS largely focused on economic and development issues which included beginning the process for setting up a bank and inking two pacts to ease trade among each other. -The Delhi Declaration exhorted the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund to quickly realign their priorities and approach to the needs of the developing world. This is an agenda the five countries intend pursuing at the coming G-20 meeting in Mexico as well. -The leaders of BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa), weighed the consequences of setting up a “BRICS Bank . The leaders agreed that the bank should in no way emerge as a competitor to the World Bank and the IMF but provide funds for projects that do not find favour with these institutions. In line with their professed commitment to multilateralism in economic and political problem solving, the leaders agreed to invest more in the United Nations Conference on Trade & Development (UNCTAD) which played a major role in catering to the interests of developing countries. The five-nation grouping's formulation on Iran condemned the West's pressure tactics to make other countries obey their latest restrictions on trade ties, especially in the energy sphere. Saying that a conflict would have disastrous consequences, it wanted the two antagonists to resolve suspicions over Iran's nuclear programme through talks on multilateral fora. On Afghanistan, BRICS exhorted the international community to stay the course on the development front for 10 years after the West withdraws most of its combat troops by 2014-end. The summit also supported a middle-of-the-road resolution on Syria. Thus we see that a range of issues are tackled. BRICS being a grouping of world’s most populous and fastest growing countries cannot avoid its responsibility in Global Politics. However, we see a balanced approach here and economic and development agendas are not allowd to be hijacked by Global Politics	6
“Indo- China model can help improve the relations between India and Pakistan”. Discuss.	India and China have intensified efforts to iron out trade differences. A trade remedy joint working groupis set up with a mechanism to nip trade disputes in the bud. Although India has had several issues of discord with China, their trade ties are booming. Therefore it has been suggested that the India-China model could help improve the relations between India and Pakistan. There have been certain efforts in this direction recently, such as- - The Integrated Check Post (ICP) at Attarihas become operational for trade across the India-Pakistan border - India agrees in principle to allow FDI from Pakand Pakistan granted the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) status to India. - India, Pakistan to fast-track talks for trade in petro products, electricity - The issue of opening bank branches in each other’s country is being taken up on priority. - It is decided that a Joint Business Council be constituted with 10 prominent business persons to be nominated by each country.This Council shall provide an additional institutional framework for regular and sustained dialogue between the business communities.The Joint Business Council would also strategise and implement mechanisms for deepening the business to business and trade and commerce relations.	##Question:“Indo- China model can help improve the relations between India and Pakistan”. Discuss.##Answer:India and China have intensified efforts to iron out trade differences. A trade remedy joint working groupis set up with a mechanism to nip trade disputes in the bud. Although India has had several issues of discord with China, their trade ties are booming. Therefore it has been suggested that the India-China model could help improve the relations between India and Pakistan. There have been certain efforts in this direction recently, such as- - The Integrated Check Post (ICP) at Attarihas become operational for trade across the India-Pakistan border - India agrees in principle to allow FDI from Pakand Pakistan granted the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) status to India. - India, Pakistan to fast-track talks for trade in petro products, electricity - The issue of opening bank branches in each other’s country is being taken up on priority. - It is decided that a Joint Business Council be constituted with 10 prominent business persons to be nominated by each country.This Council shall provide an additional institutional framework for regular and sustained dialogue between the business communities.The Joint Business Council would also strategise and implement mechanisms for deepening the business to business and trade and commerce relations.	7
Briefly examine the Kakodkar committee report on Railway Safety.	Kakodkar Committee on Railway Safety Kakodkar Committee on railway safety has just published its report, with plans that require an outlay of Rs. 1 lakh crore. These plans need huge sums which is being criticized as impractical. The Kakodkar Committee has made a number of references to “zero tolerance” to accidents . While this is a commendable ideal to strive for, achieving it is almost impossible unless there is access to unlimited resources. In the past, the GBS(gross budgetary support) has not exceeded Rs.20,000 crore in a year. Therefore, expecting a 300 per cent hike in GBS (Rs.20,000crore to Rs.60,000 crore for Vision 2020 and the Kakodkar Safety Plan put together) for just one sector of the economy from a government facing multiple competing demands and severe fiscal constraints seems impractical. Way ahead: - We should have a “National Railway policy”. We need a middle path which costs less and is more realistic	##Question:Briefly examine the Kakodkar committee report on Railway Safety.##Answer:Kakodkar Committee on Railway Safety Kakodkar Committee on railway safety has just published its report, with plans that require an outlay of Rs. 1 lakh crore. These plans need huge sums which is being criticized as impractical. The Kakodkar Committee has made a number of references to “zero tolerance” to accidents . While this is a commendable ideal to strive for, achieving it is almost impossible unless there is access to unlimited resources. In the past, the GBS(gross budgetary support) has not exceeded Rs.20,000 crore in a year. Therefore, expecting a 300 per cent hike in GBS (Rs.20,000crore to Rs.60,000 crore for Vision 2020 and the Kakodkar Safety Plan put together) for just one sector of the economy from a government facing multiple competing demands and severe fiscal constraints seems impractical. Way ahead: - We should have a “National Railway policy”. We need a middle path which costs less and is more realistic	8
Justice Bhandari	India's nominee Justice DalveerBhandari of the Supreme Court was elected to the post of Judge of the International Court of Justice (ICJ)	##Question:Justice Bhandari##Answer:India's nominee Justice DalveerBhandari of the Supreme Court was elected to the post of Judge of the International Court of Justice (ICJ)	9
Effective Revenue Deficit	Effective revenue deficitis arrived at by deducting from “the revenue deficit” all grants made — not only to state governments and constitutional authorities, but also to NGOs — for creation of capital assets not owned and held by the government. This innovation is being legalised by amending the FRBM Act.	##Question:Effective Revenue Deficit##Answer:Effective revenue deficitis arrived at by deducting from “the revenue deficit” all grants made — not only to state governments and constitutional authorities, but also to NGOs — for creation of capital assets not owned and held by the government. This innovation is being legalised by amending the FRBM Act.	10
"The Continuance of British rule in India had demanded one strategy while the leaving of India demanded a totally different strategy". Discuss this statement in the light of Cabinet mission Plan and British Policy towards Congress and Muslim League.	Focus on Continuance of British rule demanded- Divide and Rule- Split the Hindus and Muslims, Moderates and Extremists But while leaving India the British wanted to leave back a united India as is apparent from The Cabinet Mission Plan. Discuss the differing interpretations of Congress and Muslim League regarding the Cabinet Mission plan. Discuss the British response of trying to reconcile the two groups- Congress and Muslim League	##Question:"The Continuance of British rule in India had demanded one strategy while the leaving of India demanded a totally different strategy". Discuss this statement in the light of Cabinet mission Plan and British Policy towards Congress and Muslim League. ##Answer:Focus on Continuance of British rule demanded- Divide and Rule- Split the Hindus and Muslims, Moderates and Extremists But while leaving India the British wanted to leave back a united India as is apparent from The Cabinet Mission Plan. Discuss the differing interpretations of Congress and Muslim League regarding the Cabinet Mission plan. Discuss the British response of trying to reconcile the two groups- Congress and Muslim League	11
Short history of the Local Self-Government till the Reforms of 1919.	In 1870 Viceroy Lord Mayo's Resolution (for decentralisation of power to bring about administrative efficiency in meeting people's demand and to add to the finances of colonial regime) gave the needed impetus to the development of local institutions. It was a landmark in the evolution of colonial policy towards local government. The real benchmarking of the government policy on decentralisation can, however, be attributed to Lord Ripon who, in his famous resolution on local self-government on May 18, 1882, recognised the twin considerations of local government: (i) administrative efficiency and (ii) political education. The Ripon Resolution, which focused on towns, provided for local bodies consisting of a large majority of elected non-official members and presided over by a non-official chairperson. This resolution met with resistance from colonial administrators. The progress of local self-government was tardy with only half-hearted steps taken in setting up municipal bodies. Rural decentralisation remained a neglected area of administrative reform. The Montague-Chemsford reforms (1919) brought local self-government as a provincial transferred subject, under the domain of Indian ministers in the provinces. Due to organisational and fiscal constraints, the reform was unable to make panchayat institutions truly democratic and vibrant. However, the most significant development of this period was the 'establishment of village panchayats in a number of provinces, that were no longer mere ad hoc judicial tribunal, but representative institutions symbolising the corporate character of the village and having a wide jurisdiction in respect of civic matters'.	##Question:Short history of the Local Self-Government till the Reforms of 1919.##Answer:In 1870 Viceroy Lord Mayo's Resolution (for decentralisation of power to bring about administrative efficiency in meeting people's demand and to add to the finances of colonial regime) gave the needed impetus to the development of local institutions. It was a landmark in the evolution of colonial policy towards local government. The real benchmarking of the government policy on decentralisation can, however, be attributed to Lord Ripon who, in his famous resolution on local self-government on May 18, 1882, recognised the twin considerations of local government: (i) administrative efficiency and (ii) political education. The Ripon Resolution, which focused on towns, provided for local bodies consisting of a large majority of elected non-official members and presided over by a non-official chairperson. This resolution met with resistance from colonial administrators. The progress of local self-government was tardy with only half-hearted steps taken in setting up municipal bodies. Rural decentralisation remained a neglected area of administrative reform. The Montague-Chemsford reforms (1919) brought local self-government as a provincial transferred subject, under the domain of Indian ministers in the provinces. Due to organisational and fiscal constraints, the reform was unable to make panchayat institutions truly democratic and vibrant. However, the most significant development of this period was the 'establishment of village panchayats in a number of provinces, that were no longer mere ad hoc judicial tribunal, but representative institutions symbolising the corporate character of the village and having a wide jurisdiction in respect of civic matters'.	12
Contribution of Tribal uprisings in creating awareness against the British rule during the nineteenth century.	Focus on Which all Tribal Uprisings: Santhal, Kol, Ulgulan; Areas effected, Main heroes; Their main causes: Land, Exploitation; Source of Political education, tribal unification, formulation of demands, Source of Tribal Identity Main reasons for failure: Not armed with latest weapons, Not organised, No central leadership etc.	##Question:Contribution of Tribal uprisings in creating awareness against the British rule during the nineteenth century. ##Answer:Focus on Which all Tribal Uprisings: Santhal, Kol, Ulgulan; Areas effected, Main heroes; Their main causes: Land, Exploitation; Source of Political education, tribal unification, formulation of demands, Source of Tribal Identity Main reasons for failure: Not armed with latest weapons, Not organised, No central leadership etc.	13
Revolutionary Terrorism in 1920s	Focus on Why Revolutionary Terrorism: Failure of Non Cooperation, Russian Inspiration etc Main Heroes; Main Organizations: HRA, HSRA etc Main activities: Kakori, Meerut Conspiracy, Murder of Saunders, Bomb in Assembly etc Achievements: unification of younger brigade, awareness	##Question:Revolutionary Terrorism in 1920s ##Answer:Focus on Why Revolutionary Terrorism: Failure of Non Cooperation, Russian Inspiration etc Main Heroes; Main Organizations: HRA, HSRA etc Main activities: Kakori, Meerut Conspiracy, Murder of Saunders, Bomb in Assembly etc Achievements: unification of younger brigade, awareness	14
"A Nation in Making": Surendranath Banerjee	Autobiography of SurendraNath banerjee Outlines the struggle of Surendranath Banerjee and his Political Ideas. His Political Ideas given in this book: He was an admirer of British. He had faith in Constitutional methods. Lover of Liberty. Faith in India’s past.	##Question:"A Nation in Making": Surendranath Banerjee ##Answer:Autobiography of SurendraNath banerjee Outlines the struggle of Surendranath Banerjee and his Political Ideas. His Political Ideas given in this book: He was an admirer of British. He had faith in Constitutional methods. Lover of Liberty. Faith in India’s past.	15
Positive effects of the Ghadar Movement	Focus on Creation of awareness of the Indian Independence cause in the West Positive impetus to Sikhs’ morale as most Sikhs were serving in British armies Unification of many later day heroes of Indian Independence Movement	##Question:Positive effects of the Ghadar Movement ##Answer:Focus on Creation of awareness of the Indian Independence cause in the West Positive impetus to Sikhs’ morale as most Sikhs were serving in British armies Unification of many later day heroes of Indian Independence Movement	16
Namdhari Movement	The Namdhari movement was founded by Baba Ram Singh in 1857 as one of the most influential and transitional socio-religious movements in Punjab. The Namdharis were required to wear the five symbols of Sikhism, with the only exception of the Kripan (sword). However, they were required to keep a Lathi (bamboos stave) with them. The authority of the hereditary custodians of the Sikh Gurdwaras (centres of worship) was also rejected by the Namdharis. The Namdharis were told to abstain from `drinking, stealing, adultery, falsehood, slandering, back-biting and cheating` and consumption of beef was strictly forbidden.	##Question:Namdhari Movement ##Answer:The Namdhari movement was founded by Baba Ram Singh in 1857 as one of the most influential and transitional socio-religious movements in Punjab. The Namdharis were required to wear the five symbols of Sikhism, with the only exception of the Kripan (sword). However, they were required to keep a Lathi (bamboos stave) with them. The authority of the hereditary custodians of the Sikh Gurdwaras (centres of worship) was also rejected by the Namdharis. The Namdharis were told to abstain from `drinking, stealing, adultery, falsehood, slandering, back-biting and cheating` and consumption of beef was strictly forbidden.	17
Karachi Session of Indian National Congress, 1931	Presided by Sardar Patel In 1931, the Indian National Congress, at its Karachi session, adopted resolutions defining, as well as committing itself to the defence of fundamental civil rights, including socio-economic rights such as minimum wage, the abolition of untouchability and serfdom. Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru drafted the Resolution on Fundamental Rights and Economic Programme.	##Question:Karachi Session of Indian National Congress, 1931 ##Answer:Presided by Sardar Patel In 1931, the Indian National Congress, at its Karachi session, adopted resolutions defining, as well as committing itself to the defence of fundamental civil rights, including socio-economic rights such as minimum wage, the abolition of untouchability and serfdom. Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru drafted the Resolution on Fundamental Rights and Economic Programme.	18
Sohan Singh Bhakna	Baba Sohan Singh Bhakna (1870–1968) was as Indian revolutionary, the founding president of the Ghadar Party, and a leading member of the party involved in the Ghadar Conspiracy of 1915.	##Question:Sohan Singh Bhakna ##Answer:Baba Sohan Singh Bhakna (1870–1968) was as Indian revolutionary, the founding president of the Ghadar Party, and a leading member of the party involved in the Ghadar Conspiracy of 1915.	19
Madan Lal Dhingra	Madan Lal Dhingra was an Indian revolutionary freedom fighter.While studying in England, he assassinated Sir William Hutt Curzon Wyllie, a British official, hailed as one of the first acts of revolution in the Indian independence movement in the 20th century	##Question:Madan Lal Dhingra ##Answer:Madan Lal Dhingra was an Indian revolutionary freedom fighter.While studying in England, he assassinated Sir William Hutt Curzon Wyllie, a British official, hailed as one of the first acts of revolution in the Indian independence movement in the 20th century	20
Gandhara School of Art	A consequence of merger of Greek, Syrian, Persian and Indian art traditions. The development of this form of art started in Parthian Period(50BC – 75AD). Gandh?ran style flourished and achieved its peak during the Kushan period from 1st Century to 5th Century.	##Question:Gandhara School of Art ##Answer:A consequence of merger of Greek, Syrian, Persian and Indian art traditions. The development of this form of art started in Parthian Period(50BC – 75AD). Gandh?ran style flourished and achieved its peak during the Kushan period from 1st Century to 5th Century.	21
Shab e barat	15th Night of the 8th Month of Islamic calendar. Regarded as an auspicious night by Muslims and celebrated throughout the Indian subcontinent.	##Question:Shab e barat ##Answer:15th Night of the 8th Month of Islamic calendar. Regarded as an auspicious night by Muslims and celebrated throughout the Indian subcontinent.	22
Dr Satyapal	Strong patriot. In his political views he was a progressive nationalist who believed in peaceful and constitutional methods. Key role played by him in the patriotic upsurge at Amritsar immediately before the Jallianwala Bagh tragedy (1919).	##Question:Dr Satyapal ##Answer:Strong patriot. In his political views he was a progressive nationalist who believed in peaceful and constitutional methods. Key role played by him in the patriotic upsurge at Amritsar immediately before the Jallianwala Bagh tragedy (1919).	23
The British weakness led to the independence of India in 1947 rather than the strength of Indian nationalism. Critically examine.	Start from the World War II (1939) to 1947. In early 1942, the war situation compelled the British to open talks with the Indian leaders. The British forces had suffered heavy defeats at the hands of Japanese army. All proposals of British Government came as a result of loss of British paramountcy.(mention briefly 3-4 proposals) The success of Germany, Japan, and Italy put the British Power on the back foot.	##Question:The British weakness led to the independence of India in 1947 rather than the strength of Indian nationalism. Critically examine.##Answer:Start from the World War II (1939) to 1947. In early 1942, the war situation compelled the British to open talks with the Indian leaders. The British forces had suffered heavy defeats at the hands of Japanese army. All proposals of British Government came as a result of loss of British paramountcy.(mention briefly 3-4 proposals) The success of Germany, Japan, and Italy put the British Power on the back foot.	24
The responsibility for the failure of the Wavell Plan 1945 lies partly on Lord Wavell himself and partly on Mr. Jinnah. Discuss	First give brief background of Wavell Plan 1945. Why failed (specially Wavell himself and Jinnah)- Jinnah called it as death warrant due to being reduced to minority of One third Lord Wavell had not taken the leaders into confidence as regards the composition of his own list of members of executive council. Lord Wavell allowed the league particular to veto the whole plan and thus alone to block the path of progress.	##Question:The responsibility for the failure of the Wavell Plan 1945 lies partly on Lord Wavell himself and partly on Mr. Jinnah. Discuss##Answer:First give brief background of Wavell Plan 1945. Why failed (specially Wavell himself and Jinnah)- Jinnah called it as death warrant due to being reduced to minority of One third Lord Wavell had not taken the leaders into confidence as regards the composition of his own list of members of executive council. Lord Wavell allowed the league particular to veto the whole plan and thus alone to block the path of progress.	25
“The nineteenth century reform movements improved the condition of Hindu Women.” Critically examine.	Degrade position of women due to –Purdah system, early marriage, lack of education, unequal right in marrying, polyandry, female infanticide, sati system. Discuss the various social reform movements in background of this and how they contributed to improve the women condition. The Social reform movement played a vital role in passing of the following acts-Bengal regulation(1829) burning sati, Bengal Regulation (1804)- Declaration of infanticide illegal, Hindu widow remarriage act 1856, Age of consent act 1891, Sarda Act 1930.	##Question:“The nineteenth century reform movements improved the condition of Hindu Women.” Critically examine.##Answer: Degrade position of women due to –Purdah system, early marriage, lack of education, unequal right in marrying, polyandry, female infanticide, sati system. Discuss the various social reform movements in background of this and how they contributed to improve the women condition. The Social reform movement played a vital role in passing of the following acts-Bengal regulation(1829) burning sati, Bengal Regulation (1804)- Declaration of infanticide illegal, Hindu widow remarriage act 1856, Age of consent act 1891, Sarda Act 1930.	26
The policy of Moderates leaders was criticised as ‘Political mendicancy’. Elaborate	Extremist leader criticised moderates policy as political mendicancy or tea party politics. They demanded a few concession and not freedom. They never demanded representative institutions for masses but representative institutions of modified character for educated community. Their demands were always worded in prayful and apologetic language and were wedded to the use of constitutional methods. Conclusion-Mention two most important contributions of moderate leaders.	##Question:The policy of Moderates leaders was criticised as ‘Political mendicancy’. Elaborate##Answer:Extremist leader criticised moderates policy as political mendicancy or tea party politics. They demanded a few concession and not freedom. They never demanded representative institutions for masses but representative institutions of modified character for educated community. Their demands were always worded in prayful and apologetic language and were wedded to the use of constitutional methods. Conclusion-Mention two most important contributions of moderate leaders.	27
Top Extremist Leaders differed in their emphasis on political ideals and practical course of action. Discuss	Top extremist leaders- Aurobindo Ghosh, Tilak and Lala lajpat Rai differed in their emphasis on political ideas and political course of action. Tilak’s conception of ‘swaraj’ means some short of self government while Aurobindo conceived of Swaraj as complete independence from foreign rule. Tilak’s revolutionary fervour somewhat mellowed towards the end of his political career and he showed signs of cooperation with Government while Aurobindo’s concept of ‘complete independence’ was transformed into ‘Human unity’ and “world union’. Conclusion- - Extremist was in fact an attitude of mind and a practical strategy to meet a situation. - The policy of the extremist yielded good dividend-the partition of Bengal annulled. - They talked of democracy constitution and progress and talked of broadening the social base of national movement.	##Question:Top Extremist Leaders differed in their emphasis on political ideals and practical course of action. Discuss##Answer:Top extremist leaders- Aurobindo Ghosh, Tilak and Lala lajpat Rai differed in their emphasis on political ideas and political course of action. Tilak’s conception of ‘swaraj’ means some short of self government while Aurobindo conceived of Swaraj as complete independence from foreign rule. Tilak’s revolutionary fervour somewhat mellowed towards the end of his political career and he showed signs of cooperation with Government while Aurobindo’s concept of ‘complete independence’ was transformed into ‘Human unity’ and “world union’. Conclusion- - Extremist was in fact an attitude of mind and a practical strategy to meet a situation. - The policy of the extremist yielded good dividend-the partition of Bengal annulled. - They talked of democracy constitution and progress and talked of broadening the social base of national movement.	28
The emergence of Left Ideology	- The 20’s and 30’s of the 20th century witnessed the development of the Left Ideologies and a powerful Socialist trend developed in the nationalist movement. The communist Party of India came into existence. - The socialist Ideas influenced national leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru, Subhash Chandra Bose, a large number of socialist- minded groups and individuals. Within the Congress Party socialist ideas made a dent and the congress Socialist Party was organised in 1934.	##Question:The emergence of Left Ideology##Answer:- The 20’s and 30’s of the 20th century witnessed the development of the Left Ideologies and a powerful Socialist trend developed in the nationalist movement. The communist Party of India came into existence. - The socialist Ideas influenced national leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru, Subhash Chandra Bose, a large number of socialist- minded groups and individuals. Within the Congress Party socialist ideas made a dent and the congress Socialist Party was organised in 1934.	29
Significance of Quit India Movement	Easy question can be answered by picking up any standard book.	##Question:Significance of Quit India Movement##Answer:Easy question can be answered by picking up any standard book.	30
“There is great potential in BRICS member countries for not just combining to address global issues but, perhaps even more significantly, for learning from one another.” Comment on the statement in the backdrop of BRICS Summit,2012 held in New Delhi.	Recent Agreements in New Delhi which reflect that BRICS can play a major role in addressing global issues - Making a strong statement on Iran and adopting a middle-of-the-road resolution on Syria Working together to push for a different global financial architecture An agreement to encourage trade denominated in bilateral currencies. Agreement on setting up of BRICS Development Bank How BRICS countries can learn from each other At the Financial Forum in recent BRICS summit, it became evident how much India has to learn from Brazil and China in the matter of development banking . The example of Brazil, particularly BNDES, or Brazilian Development Bank, in entering areas and promoting activities that would not occur purely through the incentives determined by the market could provide some guidance about how this can happen even in a very open and largely market-driven economy like India There are also immense possibilities for technology sharing and even coordinating technology development in a world where intellectual property rights, still largely controlled by northern multinational companies, have emerged as a major constraint on development. There are opportunities for creative policy thinking that can be shared for dealing with current global financial crisis, growth inequality dilemma and other developmental priorities Encouragement of particular patterns of trade and investment among member countries and to work out the ways in which the patterns of trade and investment flows can be altered to emphasise the creation of decent employment For cooperation in areas such as developing “green” economies . The description of the work of the South African Development Bank illuminated the strategy of creating financial structures and mechanisms to promote the “green economy” through environmentally desirable activities and technologies The BRICS countries are indeed remarkably diverse but there are some commonalities and common challenges which these countries are facing. There is a need to develop new strategies for dealing with these challenge, through mutual cooperation. (317 words)	##Question:“There is great potential in BRICS member countries for not just combining to address global issues but, perhaps even more significantly, for learning from one another.” Comment on the statement in the backdrop of BRICS Summit,2012 held in New Delhi.##Answer: Recent Agreements in New Delhi which reflect that BRICS can play a major role in addressing global issues - Making a strong statement on Iran and adopting a middle-of-the-road resolution on Syria Working together to push for a different global financial architecture An agreement to encourage trade denominated in bilateral currencies. Agreement on setting up of BRICS Development Bank How BRICS countries can learn from each other At the Financial Forum in recent BRICS summit, it became evident how much India has to learn from Brazil and China in the matter of development banking . The example of Brazil, particularly BNDES, or Brazilian Development Bank, in entering areas and promoting activities that would not occur purely through the incentives determined by the market could provide some guidance about how this can happen even in a very open and largely market-driven economy like India There are also immense possibilities for technology sharing and even coordinating technology development in a world where intellectual property rights, still largely controlled by northern multinational companies, have emerged as a major constraint on development. There are opportunities for creative policy thinking that can be shared for dealing with current global financial crisis, growth inequality dilemma and other developmental priorities Encouragement of particular patterns of trade and investment among member countries and to work out the ways in which the patterns of trade and investment flows can be altered to emphasise the creation of decent employment For cooperation in areas such as developing “green” economies . The description of the work of the South African Development Bank illuminated the strategy of creating financial structures and mechanisms to promote the “green economy” through environmentally desirable activities and technologies The BRICS countries are indeed remarkably diverse but there are some commonalities and common challenges which these countries are facing. There is a need to develop new strategies for dealing with these challenge, through mutual cooperation. (317 words)	31
Comment on the guidelines recently issued by the Ministry of Culture on the sale and auction of memorabilia	Periodic attempts are made by certain persons/agencies/organizations to gain commercial profit from the international auction of art, antiquities and other objects of importance to the nation and its people. A campaign is normally launched a few days/weeks in advance, by drawing the attention of the media to the fact that these objects would be put up for public auction, primarily with the purpose of stirring up sentiments and a demand to compete with higher and higher bids, so as to push up the auction value of such items, by playing upon national feelings. Government considered the matter and formulated the following Guidelines regarding sale and auction of important memorabilia:- 1. Government does not encourage auctions of memorabilia of its iconic leaders and cultural achievers and does not, therefore, participate in them. This stand may be made widely known as intense public sentiment has been articulated on several occasions in the recent past. 2. Further, such auction often constitutes a breach or violation of the trust of the person who presented or bequeathed the items to the owners who now intend to auction them, for a primarily commercial motive. 3. If any items under the auction are covered under the Antiquities and Art Treasures Act, 1972, Government would ensure that stringent legal action is taken against consequences all those concerned. An amendment of the Act to cover such important memorabilia may also be considered for inclusion to enable the Government to take suitable action. 4. Government would not encourage such (obviously commercial) motives, by entering into the proposed auctions by participating directly and thereby further pushing up the auction value of the items under consideration, at the expense of the Indian taxpayer. 5. If, however, any private person or organization, that has expertise in the dynamics of these auction systems, proposes to participate in such auctions, government may (wherever required) offer them such support and facility, provided the ultimate aim is to restore the items under consideration to India, through an appropriate Museum, Gallery or other Institution. 6. Gandhi Smriti & Darshan Samiti may prepare and maintain a comprehensive list of important memorabilia relating to Mahatma Gandhi, as available at present, with numerous institutions/ groups/ individuals. 7.Similar exercise may be taken up by notified institutions for other iconic personalities, as may be decided by Government.	##Question:Comment on the guidelines recently issued by the Ministry of Culture on the sale and auction of memorabilia##Answer:Periodic attempts are made by certain persons/agencies/organizations to gain commercial profit from the international auction of art, antiquities and other objects of importance to the nation and its people. A campaign is normally launched a few days/weeks in advance, by drawing the attention of the media to the fact that these objects would be put up for public auction, primarily with the purpose of stirring up sentiments and a demand to compete with higher and higher bids, so as to push up the auction value of such items, by playing upon national feelings. Government considered the matter and formulated the following Guidelines regarding sale and auction of important memorabilia:- 1. Government does not encourage auctions of memorabilia of its iconic leaders and cultural achievers and does not, therefore, participate in them. This stand may be made widely known as intense public sentiment has been articulated on several occasions in the recent past. 2. Further, such auction often constitutes a breach or violation of the trust of the person who presented or bequeathed the items to the owners who now intend to auction them, for a primarily commercial motive. 3. If any items under the auction are covered under the Antiquities and Art Treasures Act, 1972, Government would ensure that stringent legal action is taken against consequences all those concerned. An amendment of the Act to cover such important memorabilia may also be considered for inclusion to enable the Government to take suitable action. 4. Government would not encourage such (obviously commercial) motives, by entering into the proposed auctions by participating directly and thereby further pushing up the auction value of the items under consideration, at the expense of the Indian taxpayer. 5. If, however, any private person or organization, that has expertise in the dynamics of these auction systems, proposes to participate in such auctions, government may (wherever required) offer them such support and facility, provided the ultimate aim is to restore the items under consideration to India, through an appropriate Museum, Gallery or other Institution. 6. Gandhi Smriti & Darshan Samiti may prepare and maintain a comprehensive list of important memorabilia relating to Mahatma Gandhi, as available at present, with numerous institutions/ groups/ individuals. 7.Similar exercise may be taken up by notified institutions for other iconic personalities, as may be decided by Government.	32
India recently voted against Srilanka on UN Human Right Council’s resolution. What was rational behind India’s vote and what impact it may have on India-SriLanka relationships ?	UNHRC’s resolution called for accountability on part of the Sri Lankan government to the widespread human rights violations during the final phases of the war against LTTE in 2009, and India voted against Srilanka in the favour of resolution. Rational behind India’s Vote o It is assumed that India's vote was heavily influenced by the political parties in Tamil Nadu . However, to interpret the decision as a result of the influence Tamil political parties would be a flawed generalisation. o Prime Minister had rationalised India's decision as one that would protect the dignity of the Tamil population . o In addition, it was also some sort of a moral and ideological awakening - values that need not be estranged from real politik every time. o It was an admission of the fact that a policy of engagement for the last three years has not been achieved in pushing Colombo to do all that it could for the Tamil population and hence time is ripe for a course correction. Impact on India-Srilanka Relationships o Since then, Sri Lankan media have reported a rise in anti-India feelings some even advocating that Sri Lanka explore a friendlier tie with China, which voted against the resolution, to counter India. o But both Sri Lankan and Indian govt. has ruled out any impact of the UNHRC vote on the New Delhi-Colombo ties. o Even then, a minor impact can not be ruled out. o From Sri Lanka's point of view, it is unlikely that the SriLankan government would let the bilateral ties between the two nations run into a cold phase. o As the dust settles, Colombo would be grateful to New Delhi for having toned down the wordings and intensity of the resolution. It is now time for Sri Lanka to rethink its actions for the past three years. The choice for Colombo is between reform and addressing the genuine grievances of the Tamil population, and withdrawing into a shell and continuing the same policies which has brought about the present fate on itself. (332 Words)	##Question:India recently voted against Srilanka on UN Human Right Council’s resolution. What was rational behind India’s vote and what impact it may have on India-SriLanka relationships ?##Answer: UNHRC’s resolution called for accountability on part of the Sri Lankan government to the widespread human rights violations during the final phases of the war against LTTE in 2009, and India voted against Srilanka in the favour of resolution. Rational behind India’s Vote o It is assumed that India's vote was heavily influenced by the political parties in Tamil Nadu . However, to interpret the decision as a result of the influence Tamil political parties would be a flawed generalisation. o Prime Minister had rationalised India's decision as one that would protect the dignity of the Tamil population . o In addition, it was also some sort of a moral and ideological awakening - values that need not be estranged from real politik every time. o It was an admission of the fact that a policy of engagement for the last three years has not been achieved in pushing Colombo to do all that it could for the Tamil population and hence time is ripe for a course correction. Impact on India-Srilanka Relationships o Since then, Sri Lankan media have reported a rise in anti-India feelings some even advocating that Sri Lanka explore a friendlier tie with China, which voted against the resolution, to counter India. o But both Sri Lankan and Indian govt. has ruled out any impact of the UNHRC vote on the New Delhi-Colombo ties. o Even then, a minor impact can not be ruled out. o From Sri Lanka's point of view, it is unlikely that the SriLankan government would let the bilateral ties between the two nations run into a cold phase. o As the dust settles, Colombo would be grateful to New Delhi for having toned down the wordings and intensity of the resolution. It is now time for Sri Lanka to rethink its actions for the past three years. The choice for Colombo is between reform and addressing the genuine grievances of the Tamil population, and withdrawing into a shell and continuing the same policies which has brought about the present fate on itself. (332 Words)	33
“The Seoul Summit, 2012 basically consolidated the commitments made in Washington in 2010.” In context of the above statement, bring out the global initiatives and particularly India’s stand towards international security issues.	There are a number of points particularly worthy of note in the Seoul Communiqué in Nuclear Security Summit 2012 o The Seoul Communiqué builds on the objectives and measures set out in the 2010 Washington Communiqué to identify 11 areas of priority in nuclear security. o It provides important timelines for advancing nuclear security objectives, such as the target year (end of 2013) for states to announce voluntary actions on minimizing the use of highly enriched uranium (HEU) o the goal year (2014) for bringing the amended Convention on the Physical Protection of Nuclear Materials (CPPNM) into effect. o It reflects the need to address both the issues of nuclear security and nuclear safety in a coherent manner for the sustainable peaceful uses of nuclear energy. o It also emphasizes the need to better secure spent nuclear fuel and radioactive waste . o It sets out specific measures to prevent radiological terrorism , an issue which was only briefly touched upon at the Washington Summit. India’s Stand o India is party to all the 13 universal instruments accepted as benchmarks for a State’s commitment to combat international terrorism. Particularly, India is party to the Convention on the Physical Protection of Nuclear Material and party to the International Convention for the Suppression of Acts of Nuclear Terrorism. o India has consistently supported IAEA’s central role in facilitating national efforts to strengthen nuclear security and in fostering effective international cooperation. India is a member of the IAEA Commission on Nuclear Safety Standards and the Advisory Group on Nuclear Security. o The Indian Atomic Energy Act 1962 provides the legal framework for securing nuclear materials and facilities. o At the first Nuclear Security Summit, India announced that it would establish a Global Centre for Nuclear Energy Partnership. To begin with, the Centre will consist of four Schools dealing with Advanced Nuclear Energy System Studies, Nuclear Security, Radiation Safety, and the application of Radioisotopes and Radiation Technology in the areas of healthcare, agriculture and food. (319 words)	##Question:“The Seoul Summit, 2012 basically consolidated the commitments made in Washington in 2010.” In context of the above statement, bring out the global initiatives and particularly India’s stand towards international security issues.##Answer: There are a number of points particularly worthy of note in the Seoul Communiqué in Nuclear Security Summit 2012 o The Seoul Communiqué builds on the objectives and measures set out in the 2010 Washington Communiqué to identify 11 areas of priority in nuclear security. o It provides important timelines for advancing nuclear security objectives, such as the target year (end of 2013) for states to announce voluntary actions on minimizing the use of highly enriched uranium (HEU) o the goal year (2014) for bringing the amended Convention on the Physical Protection of Nuclear Materials (CPPNM) into effect. o It reflects the need to address both the issues of nuclear security and nuclear safety in a coherent manner for the sustainable peaceful uses of nuclear energy. o It also emphasizes the need to better secure spent nuclear fuel and radioactive waste . o It sets out specific measures to prevent radiological terrorism , an issue which was only briefly touched upon at the Washington Summit. India’s Stand o India is party to all the 13 universal instruments accepted as benchmarks for a State’s commitment to combat international terrorism. Particularly, India is party to the Convention on the Physical Protection of Nuclear Material and party to the International Convention for the Suppression of Acts of Nuclear Terrorism. o India has consistently supported IAEA’s central role in facilitating national efforts to strengthen nuclear security and in fostering effective international cooperation. India is a member of the IAEA Commission on Nuclear Safety Standards and the Advisory Group on Nuclear Security. o The Indian Atomic Energy Act 1962 provides the legal framework for securing nuclear materials and facilities. o At the first Nuclear Security Summit, India announced that it would establish a Global Centre for Nuclear Energy Partnership. To begin with, the Centre will consist of four Schools dealing with Advanced Nuclear Energy System Studies, Nuclear Security, Radiation Safety, and the application of Radioisotopes and Radiation Technology in the areas of healthcare, agriculture and food. (319 words)	34
What are the major recommendations of M V Nair report regarding priority sector lending ?	M V Nair committe has reviewed the existing guidelines on lending to priority sector categories including agriculture, MSME and export. Their recommendations are - o The sector ‘agriculture and allied activities’ maybe a composite sector within priority sector, by doing away with distinction between direct and indirect agriculture. The targets for agriculture and allied activities may be 18 per cent of net credit o A sub target for small and marginal farmers within agriculture and allied activities is recommended, equivalent to 9 percent of net credit o The MSE sector may continue to be under priority sector. Within MSE sector, a sub target for micro enterprises is recommended equivalent to 7 percent of net credit o Special treatment should be given to small and marginal farmers and housing loans below Rs 2 lakhs should be classified under priority sector. o Priority sector targets for public sector and private sector banks could be retained at the current level of 40% of the net credit to the sector. o It has recommended severe changes should be made to exposure of foreign banks. Foreign banks’ priority sector target should be upped from 32% to 40%. o The committee has recommended that 5% of bank's credit to NBFCs could be classified priority sector. Lending to gold companies will not be classified as priority sector. o Securitized loans could also be classified under the priority sector. (222 words)	##Question:What are the major recommendations of M V Nair report regarding priority sector lending ?##Answer: M V Nair committe has reviewed the existing guidelines on lending to priority sector categories including agriculture, MSME and export. Their recommendations are - o The sector ‘agriculture and allied activities’ maybe a composite sector within priority sector, by doing away with distinction between direct and indirect agriculture. The targets for agriculture and allied activities may be 18 per cent of net credit o A sub target for small and marginal farmers within agriculture and allied activities is recommended, equivalent to 9 percent of net credit o The MSE sector may continue to be under priority sector. Within MSE sector, a sub target for micro enterprises is recommended equivalent to 7 percent of net credit o Special treatment should be given to small and marginal farmers and housing loans below Rs 2 lakhs should be classified under priority sector. o Priority sector targets for public sector and private sector banks could be retained at the current level of 40% of the net credit to the sector. o It has recommended severe changes should be made to exposure of foreign banks. Foreign banks’ priority sector target should be upped from 32% to 40%. o The committee has recommended that 5% of bank's credit to NBFCs could be classified priority sector. Lending to gold companies will not be classified as priority sector. o Securitized loans could also be classified under the priority sector. (222 words)	35
“Government must act as the guarantor of universal health coverage” Elaborate more on the given statement along with the recommendations made by a High Level Expert Group (HLEG) on Universal Health Coverage (UHC), constituted by the Planning Commission.	UHC should not only be developmental priority but it should be moral responsibility of Government. India has a poor record of 1.2% of GDP spending in health sector and out of pocket expenditure on health remains very high at 71 % of all spending. Apart from improving people's health, adopting UHC is likely to generate millions of new jobs, enhance productivity, and promote equity. Major recommendation : A health entitlement card should assure every citizen access to a national health package of essential primary, secondary and tertiary care, both inpatient and outpatient. Services included under UHC must be tax funded and cashless at delivery . User fees are to be abolished because they are inefficient, inadequate and iniquitous. Contributory social insurance is not appropriate for countries like India where a large segment of the workforce — close to 93 per cent — is in the unorganised sector and vast numbers are below or near the poverty line. Primary health care and District hospitals should be strengthened. There is a need for improvement in the size and quality of our health workforce. Regulatory systems need strengthening. Larger investments should be made in health promoting programmes in other sectors such as water, sanitation, nutrition, environment, urban design and livelihood generation. Willing private providers need to fill gaps by providing cashless service and that would be compensated by pre-determined cost per package. This way it will act as extension to public service and Private providers wont compete for providing same services. (244 words)	##Question:“Government must act as the guarantor of universal health coverage” Elaborate more on the given statement along with the recommendations made by a High Level Expert Group (HLEG) on Universal Health Coverage (UHC), constituted by the Planning Commission. ##Answer:UHC should not only be developmental priority but it should be moral responsibility of Government. India has a poor record of 1.2% of GDP spending in health sector and out of pocket expenditure on health remains very high at 71 % of all spending. Apart from improving people's health, adopting UHC is likely to generate millions of new jobs, enhance productivity, and promote equity. Major recommendation : A health entitlement card should assure every citizen access to a national health package of essential primary, secondary and tertiary care, both inpatient and outpatient. Services included under UHC must be tax funded and cashless at delivery . User fees are to be abolished because they are inefficient, inadequate and iniquitous. Contributory social insurance is not appropriate for countries like India where a large segment of the workforce — close to 93 per cent — is in the unorganised sector and vast numbers are below or near the poverty line. Primary health care and District hospitals should be strengthened. There is a need for improvement in the size and quality of our health workforce. Regulatory systems need strengthening. Larger investments should be made in health promoting programmes in other sectors such as water, sanitation, nutrition, environment, urban design and livelihood generation. Willing private providers need to fill gaps by providing cashless service and that would be compensated by pre-determined cost per package. This way it will act as extension to public service and Private providers wont compete for providing same services. (244 words)	36
Write about objectives and functions of Afro-Asian Rural Development Organization.	AARDO is to strengthen cooperation between Asia and Africa in the field of rural development. AARDO in its New Delhi Declaration of 2007 undertook to achieve the internationally agreed Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) ? It helps in initiating new programmes such as ? new training courses, ? development pilot projects, ? regional level workshops/seminars and study visits, helping the member countries in obtaining financial and technical assistance for rural development programmes from institutions like World Bank etc (74 words)	##Question:Write about objectives and functions of Afro-Asian Rural Development Organization. ##Answer: AARDO is to strengthen cooperation between Asia and Africa in the field of rural development. AARDO in its New Delhi Declaration of 2007 undertook to achieve the internationally agreed Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) ? It helps in initiating new programmes such as ? new training courses, ? development pilot projects, ? regional level workshops/seminars and study visits, helping the member countries in obtaining financial and technical assistance for rural development programmes from institutions like World Bank etc (74 words)	37
Write a short note on “Washington Accord” and why it has been in news in India ?	The Washington Accordis an international accreditation agreementfor professional engineering academic degrees,between the bodies responsible for accreditation in its signatory countries.The agreement recognizes that there is substantial equivalency of programs accredited by those signatories. In India NBA(National Board of Accreditation), under the aegis ofAICTE(All India Council for Technical Education), is planning to bid to become a permanent member of the Washington Accord. (67 words)	##Question:Write a short note on “Washington Accord” and why it has been in news in India ?##Answer:The Washington Accordis an international accreditation agreementfor professional engineering academic degrees,between the bodies responsible for accreditation in its signatory countries.The agreement recognizes that there is substantial equivalency of programs accredited by those signatories. In India NBA(National Board of Accreditation), under the aegis ofAICTE(All India Council for Technical Education), is planning to bid to become a permanent member of the Washington Accord. (67 words)	38
Objectives of “National Monsoon Mission”	(i) To build a working partnership between the academic and R&D organisations both national and international and the operational agencies to improve the operational monsoon forecast skill over the country. (ii) To set up a state of the art dynamic modelling framework for improving the prediction skill of: a. Seasonal and extended range prediction system (16 days to one season) b. Short to medium range prediction system (up to 15 days). (72 words)	##Question:Objectives of “National Monsoon Mission”##Answer:(i) To build a working partnership between the academic and R&D organisations both national and international and the operational agencies to improve the operational monsoon forecast skill over the country. (ii) To set up a state of the art dynamic modelling framework for improving the prediction skill of: a. Seasonal and extended range prediction system (16 days to one season) b. Short to medium range prediction system (up to 15 days). (72 words)	39
Blue-Fi	A combination of Bluetooth and Wi-Fi that will provide passengers at railway station with a wealth of information, recently launched at Banglore. (23 words)	##Question:Blue-Fi##Answer:A combination of Bluetooth and Wi-Fi that will provide passengers at railway station with a wealth of information, recently launched at Banglore. (23 words)	40
Land Port	An area on the international borders of India notified as land customs station with facilities for clearance and transport of passengers and goods across the borders of India eg ICP Attari (31 words)	##Question:Land Port##Answer:An area on the international borders of India notified as land customs station with facilities for clearance and transport of passengers and goods across the borders of India eg ICP Attari (31 words)	41
RuPay	RuPay is the Indian domestic card payment network mainly to reduce overall transaction cost for the banks in India. (19 words)	##Question:RuPay##Answer:RuPay is the Indian domestic card payment network mainly to reduce overall transaction cost for the banks in India. (19 words)	42
To commemorate the 150th Birth Anniversary of Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore, the Government of India has started celebrations to pay homage to the great poet-philosopher. Discuss the Projects and Schemes announced as part of this commemoration.	Schemes and Projects announced were as follows: Tagore National Fellowship for Cultural Research: With a view to infuse fresh knowledge capital into the institutions, the scheme expects selected scholars/academicians to select specific resources of certain selected institutions to take up projects and research work that are related to the main objectives of these institutions and to enrich them with a new creative edge and academic excellence. The Scheme will be open to both Indian nationals and foreign citizens. Tagore Cultural Complexes Scheme: Under the new Tagore Cultural Complexes Scheme, the existing Rabindra ‘Bhawans’, ‘Manchas’, ‘Sadans’, ‘Rangshalas’ and other cultural centres will be upgraded and modernised into state-of-the-art cultural complexes. These structures were created as part of a nation-wide programme launched on the occasion of Centenary Celebrations of Rabindranath Tagore in 1961. Besides restoring these structures, new cultural complexes will be created in the State Capitals and other cities where no such complexes exist. Tagore Commemoration Grant Scheme providing for grants to not-for-profit organisations for organising cultural programs. Rabindra Rachnavali Project: A chronological anthology of Rabindranath Tagore’s works will be published. After completion the project will be known asKalanukramik Rabindra Rachnavali. The anthology will be able to capture how Tagore worked on a day to day basis during his creative period and help us to connect with his artistic and other activities such as painting, dramatic performances, music, education and nation building. Centre for Tagore Studies at Indian Institute of Advanced Study, Shimla has been set up. Resotoration of Heritage Buildings at Viswa Bharti and ancestral home of Tagore at Jorasanko Indo-Bangladesh Joint Commemorations: Workshops with eminent dancers, choreographers, eminent artists and eminent theatre personalities. Other Overseas Commemorations: Exhibitions of Tagore's paintings etc.	##Question:To commemorate the 150th Birth Anniversary of Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore, the Government of India has started celebrations to pay homage to the great poet-philosopher. Discuss the Projects and Schemes announced as part of this commemoration.##Answer:Schemes and Projects announced were as follows: Tagore National Fellowship for Cultural Research: With a view to infuse fresh knowledge capital into the institutions, the scheme expects selected scholars/academicians to select specific resources of certain selected institutions to take up projects and research work that are related to the main objectives of these institutions and to enrich them with a new creative edge and academic excellence. The Scheme will be open to both Indian nationals and foreign citizens. Tagore Cultural Complexes Scheme: Under the new Tagore Cultural Complexes Scheme, the existing Rabindra ‘Bhawans’, ‘Manchas’, ‘Sadans’, ‘Rangshalas’ and other cultural centres will be upgraded and modernised into state-of-the-art cultural complexes. These structures were created as part of a nation-wide programme launched on the occasion of Centenary Celebrations of Rabindranath Tagore in 1961. Besides restoring these structures, new cultural complexes will be created in the State Capitals and other cities where no such complexes exist. Tagore Commemoration Grant Scheme providing for grants to not-for-profit organisations for organising cultural programs. Rabindra Rachnavali Project: A chronological anthology of Rabindranath Tagore’s works will be published. After completion the project will be known asKalanukramik Rabindra Rachnavali. The anthology will be able to capture how Tagore worked on a day to day basis during his creative period and help us to connect with his artistic and other activities such as painting, dramatic performances, music, education and nation building. Centre for Tagore Studies at Indian Institute of Advanced Study, Shimla has been set up. Resotoration of Heritage Buildings at Viswa Bharti and ancestral home of Tagore at Jorasanko Indo-Bangladesh Joint Commemorations: Workshops with eminent dancers, choreographers, eminent artists and eminent theatre personalities. Other Overseas Commemorations: Exhibitions of Tagore's paintings etc.	43
“The Indian Literature Abroad (ILA) project seeks to open windows to the polyphonic voices coming out of India.” Elaborate.	While Indian literature in English is widely read and appreciated, the vibrant writing in the various Indian languages is not currently accessible to the rest of the world due to a lack of quality translations and focused promotion. ILA aims to correct this imbalance by projecting and promoting the plural Indian literatures internationally. The ILA project has been initiated by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, to support and facilitate translation and promotion of literary heritage and contemporary literature from the Indian languages into major foreign languages (especially those recognized by UNESCO). ILA has a distinguished Advisory Committee, with the Dr U.R. Ananthamurthy as the chairman, and including well-known names from the fields of literature, publishing and translation. Namita Gokhale, writer, publisher and co-director of the Jaipur Literature Festival, is member-secretary of the project.	##Question:“The Indian Literature Abroad (ILA) project seeks to open windows to the polyphonic voices coming out of India.” Elaborate. ##Answer:While Indian literature in English is widely read and appreciated, the vibrant writing in the various Indian languages is not currently accessible to the rest of the world due to a lack of quality translations and focused promotion. ILA aims to correct this imbalance by projecting and promoting the plural Indian literatures internationally. The ILA project has been initiated by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, to support and facilitate translation and promotion of literary heritage and contemporary literature from the Indian languages into major foreign languages (especially those recognized by UNESCO). ILA has a distinguished Advisory Committee, with the Dr U.R. Ananthamurthy as the chairman, and including well-known names from the fields of literature, publishing and translation. Namita Gokhale, writer, publisher and co-director of the Jaipur Literature Festival, is member-secretary of the project.	44