Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Equalization Levy
Why in the News?
The Centre is considering the withdrawal of the 6% Equalization Levy on online advertisement services provided by offshore digital economy firms to Indian businesses.
What is Equalization Levy?
- The Equalization Levy was introduced in 2016 under Section 165A of the Finance Act, primarily to tax digital transactions conducted by foreign e-commerce companies with Indian businesses.
- It was designed to ensure that foreign companies, particularly in the digital economy, pay taxes for benefiting from Indian markets without a physical presence in the country.
- It was primarily aimed at business-to-business (B2B) transactions, which is why it is often referred to as the “Google Tax”.
- The levy mechanism involves withholding the tax at the time of payment made by the Indian service recipient to a non-resident service provider.
- The annual payment threshold for the levy is ₹1,00,000 for a single service provider in a financial year.
- Services covered under the levy:
- Online advertisement services (effective from June 1, 2016).
- Provision of digital advertising space or sale of goods to Indian residents (effective from April 1, 2020).
- Tax Rates:
- 6% of the gross consideration is levied on online advertisement services.
- 2% of the gross consideration is levied on e-commerce transactions like the sale of goods or services.
- Exclusions:
- The levy does not apply if the non-resident has a permanent office in India related to the service.
- The payment for the service is below ₹1 lakh.
- Tax Withholding: The tax is withheld by the Indian service recipient at the time of payment.
Why it is being Abolished?
- This move is part of India’s attempt to reduce tensions with the US, which raised concerns over such taxes.
- Similarly, the UK is considering the abolition of its digital services tax by April 2025.
- In August 2024, the Indian government removed the 2% levy applied to offshore tech firms (e.g., cloud services, e-commerce).
- The 6% levy on online advertisements remained, impacting companies like Google and Meta.
- The Finance Bill 2025 proposes a sunset clause to phase out the 6% levy on online advertisements by April 1, 2025.
| [UPSC 2012] What is/are the recent policy initiative(s)of Government of India to promote the growth of manufacturing sector? Setting up of:
1. National Investment and Manufacturing Zones
2. Providing the benefit of ‘single window clearance’
3. Establishing the Technology Acquisition and Development Fund
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Commission on Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (CGRFA)
Why in the News?
The 20th meeting of the Commission on Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (CGRFA-20) is currently underway in Rome.
About Commission on Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (CGRFA)
- The CGRFA is the only permanent intergovernmental body addressing all components of biodiversity-related to food and agriculture.
- It was established in 1983 as the Commission on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture.
- It operates under the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations.
- It aims to create international consensus on managing biodiversity in food systems and ensuring the fair and equitable sharing of benefits from these genetic resources.
- Membership: 179 countries (including India) and the European Union
- Focus: Coordinates global efforts on biodiversity affecting agriculture, forestry, livestock, and aquatic species, including pollinators, soil organisms, and other vital species for food production.
Structure and Mandate
- Structure:
- Governed by a biennial session where member countries discuss and make decisions.
- A bureau, elected by member states, guides the Commission’s work.
- The CGRFA Secretariat, hosted by FAO, offers technical and logistical support.
- Mandate:
- Policy Formulation: Develops global action plans, codes of conduct, and policy instruments for sustainable use and conservation of genetic resources for food and agriculture.
- Global Assessments: Guides preparation of periodic assessments to monitor the status and trends of genetic resources and biodiversity.
- Sustainable Use of Biodiversity: Promotes biodiversity use for food security, sustainable agriculture, and climate adaptation.
- Fair and Equitable Benefit Sharing: Ensures fair distribution of benefits from genetic resources, especially plant materials under international treaties.
-
- International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA): Adopted in 2001, it recognizes farmers’ contributions to crop diversity and provides a global system for accessing plant genetic materials for breeders, farmers, and scientists.
| [UPSC 2014] Consider the following international agreements:
1. The International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture
2. The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification
3. The World Heritage Convention
Which of the above has / have a bearing on the biodiversity?
Options: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Farakka Barrage
Why in the News?
It was nearly 50 years ago, that India had completed the construction of the Farakka Barrage.
About Farakka Barrage
- The Farakka Barrage is located on the Ganges River in Murshidabad District, West Bengal, India, about 18 km from the Bangladesh border.
- The barrage measures 2,304 meters (7,559 feet) in length.
- Its construction began in 1962 and was completed in 1970 at a cost of 1 billion dollars. It became operational on April 21, 1975.
- The Feeder Canal is approximately 42 km long, connecting the barrage to the Hooghly River.
- Purpose:
- It diverts water to the Hooghly River to maintain the navigability of Kolkata Port and to flush out sediment from the river.
- It diverts 1,800 cubic meters per second of water from the Ganges.
- Construction Details:
- Built by Hindustan Construction Company, it consists of 109 gates, with 108 over the river and one over low-lying land as a precaution.
- Supports the Farakka Super Thermal Power Station.
- The 1996 Ganges Water Sharing Treaty ensured fair water distribution:
- 70,000 cusecs or less: 50% to both India and Bangladesh.
- 70,000 – 75,000 cusecs: India gets 35,000 cusecs, Bangladesh the balance.
- 75,000 cusecs or more: India receives 40,000 cusecs, Bangladesh gets the remainder.
Significance in India-Bangladesh Water Sharing:
- The Farakka Barrage is crucial for irrigation in West Bengal, supporting agriculture during the dry season.
- Bangladesh, particularly Mongla and Khulna, depends on the Ganges for water.
- The diverted water has led to water scarcity, impacting agriculture, fisheries, and livelihoods in Bangladesh, causing diplomatic tensions.
- This treaty ensures equitable distribution and guarantees a minimum flow for Bangladesh.
-
- Water diversion has led to salinization and soil degradation in Bangladesh, affecting agriculture and freshwater supplies.
- Biodiversity loss and damage to the Sundarbans mangrove forests have been significant environmental impacts.
| [UPSC 1997] The canal-carrying capacity of Farakka is:
(a) 40,000 cusecs (b) 60,000 cusecs (c) 80,000 cusecs (d) 100,000 cusecs |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Exercise Aikeyme
Why in the News?
India is set to strengthen its military and maritime ties with African nations through two significant initiatives—Exercise Aikeyme (Africa-India Key Maritime Engagement) and IOS Sagar (Indian Ocean Ship Sagar).
About Exercise Aikeyme
- Aikeyme is India’s first-ever multilateral naval exercise with 10 African nations, aimed at improving maritime cooperation, enhancing maritime security, and addressing regional threats.
- It will be held off Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania, from April 13 to 18, 2025.
- The nations taking part include Tanzania (co-host), Comoros, Djibouti, Eritrea, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, and South Africa.
- It is aimed at increasing interoperability between the Indian Navy and African navies, with a focus on combating common threats like piracy and drug trafficking.
- The goal is to make this exercise a biennial event and expand participation in future editions to include West African nations.
- Key Features:
- Visit Board Search and Seizure (VBSS) drills.
- Arms firing exercises.
- Helicopter operations.
- Search and rescue missions.
- Table-top and command post exercises on anti-piracy operations and information-sharing.
IOS Sagar (Indian Ocean Ship) Initiative
- The IOS Sagar initiative focuses on deepening India’s maritime cooperation with IOR countries.
- It involves the deployment of the Indian Navy’s INS Sunayna, which will be manned by a combined crew of Indian sailors and 44 personnel from nine African countries.
- The initiative will take place from April 5 to May 8, 2025.
- Key Participating Countries: Sri Lanka, Maldives, Mauritius, Comoros, Kenya, Madagascar, Mozambique, Seychelles, and South Africa.
- Activities:
- The ship will undertake port calls at Dar-es-Salaam, Nacala, Port Louis, Port Victoria, and Male.
- The ship will also engage in joint surveillance of the Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) of Tanzania, Mozambique, Mauritius, and Seychelles.
- The personnel will undergo two-week training capsules at Kochi, including sea training, watchkeeping, and other professional naval activities.
|
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Lapis Lazuli
Why in the News?
This newscard is an excerpt from the original article published in ‘The Hindu’.
About Lapis Lazuli
- Lapis lazuli is a deep-blue metamorphic rock prized for its vibrant colour, often used in jewellery and decorative items.
- It is composed mainly of lazurite, with other minerals like calcite and pyrite, which give it its characteristic golden specks.
- It is mainly found in Afghanistan’s Badakhshan province, though it is also present in Chile, Russia, and the US.
- It has been valued since ancient times, particularly in Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Greece, and is known for its use in making pigments, especially ultramarine.
Lapis Lazuli in Indus Valley Civilization (IVC):
- The Indus Valley Civilization (IVC) (3300-1900 BC) had extensive trade with Mesopotamia and Afghanistan, where lapis lazuli was imported.
- It was used for beads and ornaments found at Mohenjo-daro and Harappa, underscoring its value in Indus jewellery.
- It was a sacred stone, often used in beads, pendants, and amulets, symbolizing spirituality and high social status.
- It was likely associated with religious ceremonies and used to represent the gods.
- The Indus people were skilled at bead-making, often combining lapis lazuli with other stones, such as gold.
- The intricate designs, including incised or painted beads, reflect their technical expertise.
Other Semi-Precious Stones Found in IVC:
Several semi-precious stones were used by the IVC to create jewellery and ornaments:
- Carnelian beads were made into pendants and rings, valued for their reddish-orange hue and durability.
- Amethyst beads, a purple quartz variety, were also used, likely imported from other regions.
- Jasper, a chalcedony variety, was used for beads and pendants, valued for its earthy tones.
- Turquoise was used in beads, often combined with lapis lazuli and carnelian.
- Steatite (Soapstone) was used for seals and beads, often engraved with animal motifs or symbols.
- Crystal and quartz were used for translucent beads, adding a mystical quality to jewelry.
- Gold, combined with semi-precious stones like lapis lazuli, carnelian, and turquoise, was extensively used in necklaces, bracelets, and earrings.
|
| [UPSC 2023] Lothal, a significant site of the Indus Valley Civilization, was particularly well-known as a:
(a) major agricultural centre
(b) centre for textile production
(c) major trade hub for beads, gems, and ornaments
(d) site with extensive fire altars |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Removal of High Court Judges
Why in the News?
The Chief Justice of India (CJI) has set up a three-member panel to investigate the alleged discovery of a significant sum of money at the residence of a sitting Delhi High Court judge.
Appointment Process of High Court Judges:
- According to Article 217, the President of India appoints High Court judges after consulting with the CJI, the Governor of the respective state, and the Chief Justice of the High Court.
- In the case of the appointment of a judge other than the Chief Justice, the Chief Justice of the High Court is consulted as well.
- Consultation Process:
- The process of appointing judges is handled by a Collegium, which includes the CJI and the two senior-most judges of the Supreme Court.
- The Collegium System allows for a collaborative decision-making process where the Chief Justice of the High Court initiates the proposal, which is then forwarded to the Chief Minister.
- The Chief Minister, in turn, advises the Governor, who submits the proposal to the Union Law Minister.
- The Chief Justice of the High Court is appointed in accordance with a policy to ensure that Chief Justices are from outside the respective states.
- Appointment and Transfer of Judges:
- The CJI and the senior-most judges of the Supreme Court collectively decide on the appointment and transfer of judges, ensuring judicial independence and preventing executive interference.
Removal of Judges in the Higher Judiciary:
- Impeachment Process:
- Judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts can only be removed by impeachment, which requires a motion signed by 100 Lok Sabha MPs or 50 Rajya Sabha MPs.
- The impeachment motion is investigated by a three-member judicial committee, and if the committee finds merit in the allegations, Parliament votes on the motion.
- A 2/3rd majority is needed in both Houses for removal.
- Parliament can, however, consider a motion to impeach a judge according to the procedure laid down in the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968.
- In-House Inquiry Process:
- The CJI can initiate an in-house inquiry in the event of serious allegations against a judge. This process involves the Chief Justice of the High Court submitting a report, and if the allegations are deemed serious, a three-member committee is constituted to investigate the matter.
- If the committee recommends removal, the CJI may advise the judge to resign. If the judge refuses, their judicial work is withdrawn, and impeachment proceedings may be initiated.
Historical Impeachment Efforts:
- No judge has been impeached in India, though attempts have been made, including the failed motions against Justice V Ramaswami (1993) and Justice Soumitra Sen (2011).
- Justice V Ramaswami (1993): Faced impeachment for financial misconduct, but the motion failed in the Lok Sabha.
- Justice Soumitra Sen (2011): Resigned after impeachment proceedings for misappropriating funds.
- Justice K Veeraswamy: Chief Justice of Madras HC, investigated for corruption but challenged the investigation. The case remained unresolved until his death in 2010.
- Justice Shamit Mukherjee (2003), Justice Nirmal Yadav (2008), and Justice SN Shukla (2017): Faced criminal charges for corruption after in-house inquiries found substantial evidence against them.
|
[UPSC 2019] Consider the following statements:
1. The motion to impeach a Judge of the Supreme Court of India cannot be rejected by the Speaker of the Lok Sabha as per the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968.
2. The Constitution of India defines and gives details of what Constitutes ‘incapacity and proved misbehaviour’ of the Judges of the Supreme Court of India.
3. The details of the process of impeachment of the Judges of the Supreme Court of India are given in the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968.
4. If the motion for the impeachment of a Judge is taken up for voting, the law requires the motion to be backed by each House of the Parliament and supported by a majority of total membership of that House and by not less than two-thirds of total members of that House present and voting.Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 only (c) 3 and 4 only (d) 1, 3 and 4 |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Demands for Grants
Why in the News?
The Lok Sabha has passed the Demands for Grants of various Ministries for the financial year 2025-26, approving an expenditure of more than ₹50 lakh crore.
What are Demands for Grants?
- Demands for Grants refer to the expenditure estimates that require approval from the Lok Sabha under Article 113 of the Constitution of India.
- These demands are essentially requests for funds by different ministries to cover their respective expenditure needs.
- The Demands for Grants cover:
- Revenue expenditure: Routine expenses for the functioning of government.
- Capital expenditure: Investment-related spending, such as infrastructure and development projects.
- Grants to States/UTs: Funds allocated to state governments and Union Territories for various purposes.
- Loans & advances: Amounts lent to other entities or bodies.
- Each ministry or department presents its own demand for grants. Larger ministries may have multiple demands depending on the scope of their activities.
- Types of Expenditures in Demands for Grants:
- Voted expenditure: It refers to the part of the budget that requires approval from the Lok Sabha. This expenditure can be debated and voted on by members of the House.
- Charged expenditure: It includes items like the President’s salary, judges’ salaries, debt servicing, and other such payments. This expenditure does not require a vote and is automatically passed.
- Voting on Demands for Grants:
- Exclusivity of Lok Sabha: Only the Lok Sabha has the power to vote on Demands for Grants.
- Voting Process: Voting applies only to votable expenditure, with each demand voted on separately.
- Guillotine Process: If time runs out for discussion, the Speaker applies the guillotine, automatically approving remaining demands.
Constitutional Provisions on Demands for Grants
- Article 113: Requires the President’s recommendation before any demand for a grant can be made.
- Article 114: Money cannot be withdrawn from the Consolidated Fund of India without parliamentary approval.
- Article 115: Allows supplementary grants if the budget is insufficient.
- Article 116: Provides for Vote on Account and Vote of Credit if the budget is not passed before the start of the financial year.
[UPSC 2024] Consider the following statements regarding the financial procedure in the Indian Parliament:
1. The Appropriation Bill must be passed by the Lok Sabha after the Demands for Grants are voted upon.
2. At the Union level, no demand for a grant can be made except on the recommendation of the President of India.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 |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Exercise Varuna
Why in the News?
India and France recently conducted the 23rd edition of Exercise Varuna, a key bilateral naval exercise aimed at enhancing interoperability and combat readiness between the two countries’ naval forces.
About Exercise Varuna
- Exercise Varuna is a bilateral naval exercise between India and France.
- It was first initiated in 1993 and officially named Varuna in 2001.
- The exercise focuses on enhancing combat readiness, improving interoperability, and deepening maritime security cooperation between the two nations.
- It spans multiple domains, including air, surface, and sub-surface operations, with a strong emphasis on anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and air combat drills.
- Key Highlights:
- The 2025 edition took place from March 19-22 off the coast of Goa, with participants such as INS Vikrant (India) and Charles de Gaulle (France).
- This year’s exercises included aircraft carrier operations, ASW drills, and joint surface warfare operations.
- Rafale-M (French Navy) and MiG-29K (Indian Navy) fighters participated in advanced air defence and mock air-to-air combat scenarios.
- Indian Scorpene-class submarines acted as aggressors, while French and Indian frigates protected high-value assets, including the French oiler Jacques Chevallier.
- These drills enhanced underwater domain awareness and improved ASW tactics.
Other Notable India-France Military Exercises:
- FRINJEX: A joint exercise between the Indian and French armies focused on ground operations.
- GARUDA: A bilateral air exercise between the Indian and French air forces, first held in 2003.
- SHAKTI: A biennial military exercise between India and France, focusing on counter-terrorism operations.
- La Pérouse: A multilateral maritime exercise led by the French Navy, with India participating for the first time in 2021.
|
| [UPSC 2024] Which of the following statements about ‘Exercise Mitra Shakti-2023’ are correct?
1. This was a joint military exercise between India and Bangladesh.
2. It commenced in Aundh (Pune).
3. Joint response during counter-terrorism operations was a goal of this operation.
4. Indian Air Force was a part of this exercise.
Select the answer using the code given below:
(a) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 1 and 4 (c) 1 and 4 (d) 2, 3 and 4 |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: UN World Water Development Report, 2025
Why in the News?
On March 21, 2025, the United Nations marked the first-ever World Day for Glaciers, and in conjunction, the United Nations World Water Development Report issued a disturbing warning about the rapid loss of glaciers.
Key Highlights of the Report:
- Hindu Kush Himalayas (HKH) Glacier Loss: Glaciers are melting 65% faster (2011-2020) than the previous decade, with up to 50% shrinkage by 2100 if global temperatures rise by 1.5-2°C.
- WMO’s Climate Report: The 2024 climate year was the warmest in 175 years, reinforcing the link between rising temperatures and accelerated glacier melt.
- Unprecedented Glacier Mass Loss: Over 9,000 billion tonnes of ice lost since 1975, with 450 gigatons lost in 2024 alone.
- Rising Sea Levels: Melting glaciers contribute to sea level rise, displacing 200,000 to 300,000 people annually and increasing coastal flooding risks.
- Increased Wildfires and Dust Storms: Rising wildfires and dust storms accelerate glacier melt by darkening their surfaces.
- Permafrost Thawing: Thawing permafrost releases carbon and nutrients, worsening climate change and increasing landslide risks.
- Declining Snow Cover: A 7.79% global decline in persistent snow cover from 1979-2022 affects water resources.
About World Glaciers Day
- March 21, 2025, marked the first-ever World Day for Glaciers, aimed at raising awareness about glaciers and the risks posed by their loss due to climate change.
- It was declared by the UN in its resolution A/RES/77/158 along with the International Year of Glaciers 2025.
- The day calls for governments, organizations, and individuals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adopt sustainable water management practices.
| [UPSC 2019] Consider the following statements:
1. Global warming might trigger the release of methane gas from these deposits.
2. Large deposits of ‘methane hydrate’ are found in Arctic Tundra and under the seafloor.
3. Methane in atmosphere oxidizes to carbon dioxide after a decade or two.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Public Accounts Committee, Swadesh Darshan Scheme (SDS)
Why in the News?
The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has criticized the Ministry of Tourism for the poor execution of the Swadesh Darshan Scheme and highlighted lapses in planning, approvals, and project execution.
About Public Accounts Committee (PAC):
- The PAC was established in 1921 under the Government of India Act, 1919.
- It consists of 22 members, with 15 from the Lok Sabha and 7 from the Rajya Sabha, who are elected annually.
- The Chairman of the committee is traditionally selected from the Opposition since 1967.
- The PAC plays a crucial role in examining the audit reports of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), focusing on public expenditure.
- It ensures that funds are utilized efficiently, and it checks for irregularities, corruption, waste, and inefficiencies in government spending.
About Swadesh Darshan Scheme (SDS):
- The Swadesh Darshan Scheme was launched in 2015 by the Ministry of Tourism.
- Objective: Developing theme-based tourist circuits such as Buddhist, Coastal, Heritage, and Eco-tourism circuits in India, emphasising sustainable tourism.
- The scheme is 100% centrally funded, and it provides financial assistance to state governments, Union Territory administrations, and central agencies for the development of tourism infrastructure.
- Swadesh Darshan 2.0 scheme (which began from January 2023) adopts a more holistic approach, shifting from circuit-based tourism to a destination-centric model.
- This new version aims to encourage private sector investment in tourism and hospitality, aligning with India’s ‘Vocal for Local’ and Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision.
- It prioritizes long-term growth and the development of sustainable tourism destinations.
- The Challenge-Based Destination Development (CBDD) is a sub-scheme under Swadesh Darshan 2.0, focusing on the competitive development of tourism destinations.
- This initiative aims to foster sustainability, digitalization, skill development, MSME support, and effective management, ensuring that the tourism sector thrives in a more modern and organized manner.
PYQ:
[UPSC 2007] Consider the following statements:
1. The Chairman of the Committee on Public Accounts is appointed by the Speaker of the Lok Sabha.
2. The Committee on Public Accounts comprises Members of Lok Sabha, Members of Rajya Sabha, and a few eminent persons of industry and trade.
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 |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Arctic Council
Why in the News?
The Russian Ambassador to India recently stated that Russia views India’s interest in the Arctic as a “stabilizing factor.”
India-Russia Collaboration in the Arctic
India and Russia have strengthened their cooperation in the Arctic, focusing on scientific research, energy resources, and shipping routes:
- Energy Resources: Joint ventures in Arctic oil and gas extraction, particularly in the Dolginskoye oil field and Vostok oil cluster.
- Northern Sea Route (NSR): India and Russia are working to improve shipping through the NSR, aiming to reduce shipping costs and improve connectivity.
|
About India’s Arctic Policy
- India’s Arctic Policy was launched by the Ministry of Earth Sciences in 2022, taking a comprehensive approach that involves multiple sectors, including scientific, environmental, economic, and strategic interests.
- It focuses on sustainability, aiming to protect the environment while exploring opportunities in energy resources, shipping routes, and scientific collaboration.
- The policy includes 6 key pillars:
- Science and Research: Focus on climate change, geosciences, and polar biology.
- Climate and Environmental Protection: Ensuring development does not compromise the Arctic ecosystem.
- Economic and Human Development: Exploring opportunities in energy extraction and shipping.
- Transportation and Connectivity: Enhancing access to Arctic shipping routes.
- Governance and International Cooperation: Strengthening ties with international partners like the Arctic Council.
- National Capacity Building: Developing expertise in Arctic research and polar navigation.
- The policy acknowledges the geopolitical dynamics of the Arctic and seeks to balance scientific, economic, and strategic interests.
India’s Mission to the Arctic
- India’s Arctic mission began in 2007, with its first research mission focused on microbiology, atmospheric sciences, and geology. India also established its research base, Himadri, in the Arctic in 2008. Recent advancements include:
- In 2023, India conducted winter expedition in polar night conditions to study climate change, sea-ice dynamics, and ocean circulation.
- India collaborates with Russia, Norway, and other Arctic nations through research institutes and joint expeditions.
- India’s focus is on understanding the Arctic’s impact on climate change and its effects on weather patterns, particularly in South Asia.
Back2Basics: Arctic Council
- The Arctic Council, established in 1996, is an intergovernmental forum for cooperation among Arctic states.
- The Council includes 8 Arctic countries and permanent participants from indigenous Arctic communities. Its focus is on environmental protection, sustainable development, and scientific research.
- India has been an observer since 2013, contributing to scientific research, climate change discussions, and policy frameworks.
- The Council’s activities were suspended in 2022 due to rising tensions from militarization by NATO countries.
- Despite this, India continues to engage constructively with the Council.
- India’s participation in the Arctic Council highlights the global importance of Arctic issues, particularly regarding climate change and energy security.
|
PYQ:
[UPSC 2015] The term ‘IndARC’, sometimes seen in the news, is the name of:
(a) an indigenously developed radar system inducted into Indian Defence
(b) India’s satellite to provide services to the countries of Indian Ocean Rim
(c) a scientific establishment set up by India in Antarctic region
(d) India’s underwater observatory to scientifically study the Arctic region
[UPSC 2018] Why is India taking keen in resources of Arctic region?
[UPSC 2015] What are the economic significances of discovery of oil in Arctic Sea and its possible environmental consequences? |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Special Category Status
Why in the News?
The Nitish Kumar government in Bihar renewed its demand for Special Category Status (SCS) before the 16th Finance Commission, which is currently touring the state.
About Special Category Status (SCS)
- Special Category Status (SCS) is a classification granted to specific states in India facing geographical, socio-economic, and infrastructural challenges.
- It provides special financial assistance for their development.
-
- Introduced in 1969 following the recommendations of the Fifth Finance Commission, based on the Gadgil formula for fund allocation.
- Initially granted to Assam, Jammu & Kashmir, and Nagaland, with other states like Himachal Pradesh, Manipur, Uttarakhand, and Telangana added later.
- Eligibility Criteria (Based on the Gadgil Formula): States must meet at least one of the following:
-
- Hilly terrain: Challenging geography impeding development.
- Low population density or a large tribal population.
- Strategic location near international borders.
- Economic and infrastructural backwardness.
- Non-viable state finances: Financial instability due to lack of resources.
-
- Financial Assistance: 90% grants for centrally sponsored schemes (vs. 30% for non-SCS states).
- Special Plan Assistance: Additional funds for national importance projects.
- Tax Benefits: Concessions on excise, income, and corporate taxes (many subsumed under GST).
- Carry-Forward of Unspent Funds: Funds are carried forward to the next year.
- Higher Budget Allocation: 30% of the Centre’s budget allocated to SCS states.
Assessment of Bihar’s Demand:
- Industrial Backwardness: Lack of industrial development, worsened by state bifurcation in 2000.
- High Poverty Levels: One of the highest poverty rates in India, with low per capita GDP.
- Frequent Natural Disasters: Floods and droughts severely impact agriculture.
- Infrastructure Deficiencies: Insufficient irrigation and water systems hinder agricultural productivity.
|
About the Finance Commission
- The Finance Commission is created every 5 years to allocate financial resources from the Centre to states, based on Article 280 of the Constitution.
- Composition: Consists of a chairman and four other members appointed by the President.
- Qualifications: Members must have specialized knowledge in finance, economics, accounts, or administration.
- The Fifteenth Finance Commission’s recommendations are valid till 2025-26.
- Terms of Reference for 16th FC: Division of tax proceeds, principles for grants-in-aid, enhancing state funds for local bodies, and evaluation of disaster management financing.
PYQ:
[2023] Consider the following:
- Demographic performance
- Forest and ecology
- Governance reforms
- Stable government
- Tax and fiscal efforts
For the horizontal tax devolution, the Fifteenth Finance Commission used how many of the above as criteria other than population area and income distance?
(a) Only two
(b) Only three
(c) Only four
(d) All five |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Sonic Weapon
Why in the News?
It is alleged that Serbian Police used a banned sonic weapon to disperse protesters in Belgrade.
What are Sonic Weapons?
- Sonic or acoustic weapons are devices designed to emit loud sounds over long distances, including both audible and inaudible sound waves.
- These waves can cause pain, discomfort, or disorientation.
- While sound amplifiers have been used for centuries, sonic weapons began being used for crowd control in the 1990s, with their first military use in Iraq in 2004.
- Working Mechanism: Sonic weapons use modern transducers to convert energy into concentrated sound, which can be controlled in terms of frequency, level, and duration.
Types of Sonic Weapons:
- Long-Range Acoustic Device (LRAD):
- Range: Up to 8,900 meters for intelligible speech.
- Sound Level: Can reach up to 160 dB, causing pain and potential hearing damage.
- Mosquito:
- Target Audience: Emits high-pitched sounds painful to younger people (teenagers and those in their twenties). Adults above 30 typically cannot hear it due to age-related hearing loss.
- Infrasonic Weapon:
- Sound Type: Delivers inaudible low-frequency sounds that cause pain and disorientation.
- Development: Still in early stages, with ongoing research into its full potential.
Health Implications:
- Short-Term exposure can cause tinnitus, headaches, nausea, and vertigo.
- Prolonged exposure may lead to permanent hearing damage, and symptoms like tinnitus can last for days.
PYQ:
[UPSC 2023] Consider the following statements regarding Agni-V and BrahMos Missiles:
1. Agni-V is a medium-range supersonic cruise missile, and BrahMos is a solid-fuelled intercontinental ballistic missile.
2. Both the missiles are developed under the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme.
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 |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Spring Equinox
Why in the News?
March 20 marks the arrival of the vernal equinox in the Northern Hemisphere, signaling the beginning of the spring season.
What are Equinoxes?
- An equinox occurs when the Earth’s axis is not tilted toward or away from the Sun, resulting in equal length of day and night across the planet.
- Equinoxes occur twice a year:
- Vernal Equinox: Around March 20-21, marking the beginning of spring in the Northern Hemisphere and fall in the Southern Hemisphere.
- Autumnal Equinox: Around September 22-23, marking the beginning of fall in the Northern Hemisphere and spring in the Southern Hemisphere.
- On an equinox, the Sun is directly above the Equator, leading to almost equal distribution of sunlight between the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.
- The equal length of day and night is observed, with each lasting approximately 12 hours.
What are Solstices?
- A solstice occurs when the Earth’s tilt is most extreme either towards or away from the Sun. This results in the longest or shortest day of the year in each hemisphere.
- Solstices occur twice a year:
- Summer Solstice (Northern Hemisphere): Around June 20-22, marking the longest day and shortest night of the year, as the Northern Hemisphere is tilted toward the Sun.
- Winter Solstice (Northern Hemisphere): Around December 20-23, marking the shortest day and longest night of the year, as the Northern Hemisphere is tilted away from the Sun.
- Solstices create unequal distribution of sunlight, with one hemisphere receiving significantly more or less sunlight than the other.
Cultural Significance of the Equinox:
- Nowruz, celebrated on the vernal equinox, marks the beginning of the Persian New Year.
- The festival has been celebrated for over 3,000 years by the Zoroastrian community, including the Parsi community in India.
- Vernal Equinox Day is a national holiday in Japan, celebrating the arrival of spring.
- Easter, one of the most significant days in Christianity, is determined based on the first Sunday after the first full moon following the vernal equinox.
- Passover, the Jewish festival, begins on the first full moon after the vernal equinox.
|
PYQ:
[UPSC 2019] On 21st June, the Sun
(a) does not set below the horizon at the Arctic Circle
(b) does not set below the horizon at Antarctic Circle
(c) shines vertically overhead at noon on the Equator
(d) shines vertically overhead at the Tropic of Capricorn |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Health Expenditure Share of GDP
Why in the News?
The Union government has steadily increased its spending on healthcare, with the expenditure rising to 1.84% of GDP in 2021-22, up from 1.15% in 2013-14.
Overview of India’s Health Expenditure
- India has shown a consistent increase in government spending on healthcare, reflecting a growing commitment to improving the public healthcare system.
- As of 2021-22, government health expenditure (GHE) rose to 1.84% of GDP, up from 1.15% in 2013-14, and is on track to meet the National Health Policy 2017 target of 2.5% of GDP by 2025.
- The rise in health expenditure has been particularly significant post–COVID-19, with a 37% increase in government spending from 2020-21 to 2021-22.
- This has led to better healthcare accessibility, reduced financial burden on individuals, and greater focus on strengthening healthcare infrastructure.
What is Total Health Expenditure?
- Total Health Expenditure (THE) refers to the sum of all current and capital expenditures incurred by the government, private sector, and external sources for healthcare purposes in a given period.
- This includes:
- Current Health Expenditure (CHE): Ongoing spending on healthcare services, such as hospitals, doctor visits, and medical supplies.
- Capital Expenditure: Investments in healthcare infrastructure, such as building hospitals or purchasing medical equipment.
- In 2020-21, India’s THE was estimated at ₹7,39,327 crores, constituting 3.73% of GDP, with a per capita expenditure of ₹5,436.
- In 2021-22, this figure increased to ₹9,04,461 crores, representing 3.83% of GDP, reflecting a proactive government response to healthcare challenges and pandemic management.
Reasons for Reduced Out-of-Pocket Expenditure (OOPE)
The reduction in OOPE can be attributed to:
- Increased government health spending, making healthcare more affordable.
- Expansion of public health services, including vaccination and preventive care.
- Growth in government-funded health insurance and social security programs, reducing reliance on personal funds.
- Health initiatives like Ayushman Bharat have eased the financial burden.
- Improved public healthcare access and financial protection have reduced hardship for low- and middle-income families.
PYQ:
[2021] “Besides being a moral imperative of a Welfare State, primary health structure is a necessary precondition for sustainable development.” Analyse. |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Potteries in Ancient India
Why in the News?
This newscard is an excerpt and extension of the original article published in the Indian Express.
Types of Potteries in Ancient India:
- Neolithic Age (10000 BCE): Pottery in this period was handmade, with rough, unglazed surfaces. Later, the footwheel was introduced, making pottery shaping more refined. Materials like clay, mica, and sand were used.
- Chalcolithic Age (4500-2000 BCE): The main pottery types during this era were Black-and-Red Ware, Black-on-Red Ware, and Ochre Colored Pottery (OCP). These were seen in cultures like Ahar-Banas and Jorwe, often featuring geometric designs.
- Indus Valley Civilization (3300-1500 BCE): Pottery was wheel-thrown, with both polished and unpolished varieties. Common pottery types included Black-and-Red Ware and Painted Grey Ware, adorned with geometric patterns and depictions of animals and plants.
- Vedic Era (1500-500 BCE): During this period, Painted Grey Ware (PGW) became prominent, characterized by fine grey pottery with black geometric patterns. Northern Black Polished Ware (NBPW) emerged, glossy and associated with the elite for its fine finish.
- Mauryan and Gupta Periods: The Mauryan period continued the use of NBPW, while the Gupta period introduced redware pottery. The Kushana period added red polished ware with stamped designs.
|
Rise in Mercantile Activities and Evolution of Pottery Styles:
- The Vedic period saw the emergence of Painted Grey Ware (PGW), often linked with the Mahabharata and Ramayana.
- With the rise of Buddhism, Jainism, and urbanization, NBPW emerged during the Mahajanapada period.
- Glazed porcelain was introduced around 1000 AD through trade with China and Muslim traders, significantly influencing India’s pottery tradition.
How Pots are integral to understanding Culture?
- Material Culture: Pottery is a direct reflection of daily life and technological expertise. It reveals how ancient societies lived, worked, and expressed their culture through artistic and functional objects.
- Socio-Economic Indicators: The types of pottery indicate economic status. Luxury pottery like NBPW was reserved for the elite, while more common pottery suggests the everyday life of the broader society.
- Cultural and Religious Practices: Pottery had significant ritualistic and symbolic importance, used in religious ceremonies and burial rituals. Specific pots represented deities or were filled with sacred items like coconuts, bananas, and flowers.
- Technological and Artistic Development: The evolution of pottery-making, from handmade to wheel-thrown pottery, marks the increasing technological and artistic sophistication of ancient civilizations, highlighting advancements in both craftsmanship and creativity.
- Chronological Understanding: Pottery helps date ancient sites, providing key insights into the timeline of cultural and technological progress. It allows historians to map out the development of civilizations and better understand their historical context.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Free Speech Index
Why in the News?
A global survey by The Future of Free Speech, a US -based think tank, has ranked India 24th out of 33 countries in terms of support for free speech.
| The right to freedom of speech and expression is guaranteed under Article 19(1)(a) of the Indian Constitution, allowing citizens to express their opinions freely. This right includes various forms of expression like speech, writing, art, and digital media, RTI, and even the right not to speak. However, it is subject to reasonable restrictions as outlined in Article 19(2), including security, public order, and decency. |
About the Free Speech Index
- The Future of Free Speech, an independent U.S.-based think tank released this report titled ‘Who in the World Supports Free Speech?’.
- It evaluates public attitudes towards free speech across 33 countries, highlighting trends, regional variations, and challenges to freedom of expression worldwide.
- It emphasized the decline in support for protecting controversial speech, despite strong abstract support for free speech in many countries.
India’s Ranking:
- India is ranked 24th out of 33 countries in the 2024 Global Free Speech Index, with a score of 62.6.
- While Indians generally consider free speech important, 37% of respondents support restrictions on criticizing government policies, which is the highest percentage among the surveyed countries.
- India is an exception to the general trend, as public support for free speech does not align with actual protections, pointing to increasing government restrictions on expression.
Global Highlights:
- Norway (87.9) and Denmark (87.0) lead the rankings, demonstrating strong commitment to free speech and dissent.
- Indonesia (56.8), Malaysia (55.4), and Pakistan (57.0) showed the biggest improvements, although they still ranked lower on the scale.
- Several democratic nations, including the US, Israel, and Japan, have seen a decline in free speech support since 2021.
- Countries like Hungary (85.5) and Venezuela (81.8) scored high, indicating a disconnect between government-imposed restrictions and public attitudes towards free speech.
PYQ:
[UPSC 2014] What do you understand by the concept of “freedom of speech and expression”? Does it cover hate speech also? Why do films in India stand on a slightly different plane from other forms of expression? Discuss.
[2018] Right to Privacy is protected as an intrinsic part of Right to Life and Personal Liberty. Which of the following in the Constitution of India correctly and appropriately imply the above statement?
(a) Article 14 and the provisions under the 42nd Amendment to the Constitution.
(b) Article 17 and the Directive Principles of State Policy in Part IV.
(c) Article 21 and the freedoms guaranteed in Part III.
(d) Article 24 and the provisions under the 44th Amendment to the Constitution. |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Muzhara Movement
Why in the News?
On March 19, the anniversary of the Muzhara movement is observed, marking a significant chapter in Punjab’s agrarian struggles.
About Muzhara Movement
- Muzharas were farmers who worked the land but had no ownership rights.
- They were part of a larger class of landless peasants in Punjab, facing oppressive feudal systems.
- The biswedars (landlords), who took one-third of the produce, controlled the land.
- This system led to economic exploitation, with a significant portion of the produce and profits going to the feudal landlords and, ultimately, the British colonial rulers.
- The muzharas were seeking ownership of the land they had tilled for generations, asserting their right to the land in opposition to both the feudal and colonial systems.
- In March 1949, when the biswedars tried to reclaim land from the muzharas, Kishangarh village became the epicentre of the struggle.
- A violent standoff between the muzharas and the Patiala police ensued, which resulted in the death of a police officer on March 17.
- The army intervened on March 19, leading to four muzharas being killed in the ensuing confrontation.
Other Contemporary Peasant’s Movements
|
Details |
| Champaran Satyagraha (1917) |
- Led by Mahatma Gandhi in Bihar against the tinkathia system, where peasants were forced to grow indigo on part of their land.
- Resulted in the Champaran Agrarian Act (1918), which abolished oppressive practices.
|
| Kheda Satyagraha (1918) |
- Organized in Gujarat after crop failures when the government refused to remit land revenue.
- Gandhi and Sardar Patel supported peasants in withholding revenue payments until demands were met.
|
| Bardoli Satyagraha (1928) |
- Led by Vallabhbhai Patel in Gujarat against a 30% hike in land revenue.
- The movement succeeded, and Patel earned the title “Sardar” for his leadership.
|
| Tebhaga Movement (1946-47) |
- Initiated by the Kisan Sabha in Bengal, demanding a two-thirds share of produce for tenants instead of the customary half.
- Despite being suppressed violently, it highlighted peasant rights.
|
| Telangana Movement (1946-51) |
- A communist-led peasant guerrilla struggle in Andhra Pradesh against feudal landlords and the Nizam’s oppressive regime.
- Achieved redistribution of land and improved
|
PYQ:
[UPSC 2013] The demand for the Tebhaga Peasant Movement in Bengal was for:
(a) the reduction of the share of the landlords from one-half of the crop to one-third,
(b) the grant of ownership of land to peasants as they were the actual cultivators of the land,
(c) the uprooting of Zamindari system and the end of serfdom,
(d) writing off all peasant debts |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Comptroller and Auditor General
Why in the News?
The Supreme Court has decided to examine a plea challenging the current process of appointing the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG).
About Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG):
|
Details |
| Role and Importance |
- Established under Article 148 of the Indian Constitution.
- Ensures efficient and lawful use of public funds.
- Audits financial accounts of Consolidated Fund of India, state funds, and public sector undertakings.
- Acts as a watchdog over government financial expenditure.
- Plays a critical role in maintaining financial accountability in governance.
|
| Appointment and Term |
- Appointed by the President of India under a warrant.
- Serves a 6-year term or until the age of 65, whichever is earlier.
- Must take an oath to uphold the Constitution and perform duties impartially.
- Removal can only occur for misbehaviour or incapacity, through a special majority in both Houses of Parliament.
|
| Independence of the CAG |
- Independence from the government: Ineligible for any government office after leaving office.
- Salary and Expenses: Equal to a Supreme Court judge, with expenses charged to the Consolidated Fund of India.
- No Ministerial Representation: No minister can represent the CAG or assume responsibility for their actions.
|
Issues with the Appointment of the CAG
The current process for appointing the CAG is seen as problematic due to the centralized control by the Union government.
- The CAG is appointed by the President on the advice of the government, raising concerns about potential executive influence over a key independent body.
- Critics argue that this process compromises the CAG’s independence and calls for a neutral selection committee involving the Prime Minister, Leader of the Opposition, and Chief Justice of India.
- This would ensure that the CAG is appointed transparently and impartially, free from political interference.
- Historically, the lack of clear guidelines in Article 148 regarding the CAG’s appointment has allowed executive interference, much like the early years of judicial appointments.
Supreme Court interventions have already reformed appointment processes for bodies like the Election Commission and Central Vigilance Commission, and similar reforms for the CAG are necessary to protect its autonomy.
[UPSC 2012] In India, other than ensuring that public funds are used efficiently and for intended purpose, what is the importance of the office of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG)?
1. CAG exercises exchequer control on behalf of the Parliament when the President of India declares national emergency/financial emergency.
2. CAG reports on the execution of projects or programmes by the ministries are discussed by the Public Accounts Committee.
3. CAG reports are available to the Parliamentary Committees.
4. While dealing with the audit and accounting of government companies, CAG has certain judicial powers for prosecuting those who violate the law. Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1, 3 and 4 only (b) 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Sarthi and Pravaah Systems of RBI
Why in the News?
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) was recently awarded the prestigious Digital Transformation Award 2025 by Central Banking, a recognition of its groundbreaking digital initiatives, Sarthi and Pravaah.
About Sarthi System
- The Sarthi system was launched in January 2023 by the RBI with the goal of digitizing all internal workflows within the organization.
- This initiative aimed to reduce the reliance on paper-based processes and enhance operational efficiency across the RBI.
- Key features include:
- It can securely store and share documents among the 13,500 employees spread across 40+ locations.
- It also improves record management and provides enhanced data analysis capabilities through reports and dashboards.
- Additionally, Sarthi automates internal processes such as task tracking, approvals, and document management, streamlining operations and improving collaboration between departments.
- To ensure that employees are proficient in using the system, an online training platform, called Sarthi Pathshala, was launched alongside in-person training.
- Sarthi Mitras, who are designated experts within RBI offices, assist colleagues in navigating and resolving issues related to the system.
About Pravaah System
- Building on the success of Sarthi, the RBI introduced the Pravaah system in May 2024.
- Its primary purpose is to facilitate external users in submitting regulatory applications digitally to the RBI.
- This platform has greatly enhanced the efficiency and transparency of the application submission process.
- Key features include:
- It integrates seamlessly with the Sarthi database, enabling smooth processing of regulatory documents.
- It supports more than 70 different regulatory applications, significantly improving the speed and accuracy of submissions.
- It is equipped with centralized cybersecurity measures and digital tracking capabilities, which provide real-time monitoring of applications for both applicants and RBI managers.
- It has contributed to an 80% increase in monthly applications, marking a significant achievement in reducing delays associated with traditional, paper-based systems and streamlining the overall process.
PYQ:
[UPSC 2024] Consider the following statements in respect of the digital rupee:
1. It is a sovereign currency issued by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in alignment with its monetary policy.
2. It appears as a liability on the RBI’s balance sheet. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now