Enjoy Current Affairs - DECEMBER 2016

Trademark IAS has prepared 200 Mains type practice Qs based on the Robust CA material being sent by us for December 2016

We suggest you prepare a separate copy for CURRENT AFFAIRS - on a monthly basis

& 

write salient features of the answers to these 200 Qs in point-wise format

At the time of the UPSC exam - this copy of yours would turn out to be the Revision Book - DEC

Similarly, this exercise would be repeated for upcoming months !

Yeeahhhh!!!!!!!!

==================

1.      “Diversity is at the Core of our Pluralistic Society” Examine in India’s context

2.      What is the difference between GSLV and PSLV?

3.      Assess the Impact of Administrative Reforms implemented by Government 

4.      Elucidate the Measures taken up by the Central Government to check over exploitation of ground water in the country

5.      What has been the progress in Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana?

6.      What is the ‘Base movement’? How are home-grown terror outfits a challenge to India’s internal security?

7.      Why of late, winters in India are being warm?

8.      How Pakistan is a factor in India-USA relations?

9.      Critically discuss how Kenya’s M-PESA model could be adopted in India?

10. SC makes national anthem mandatory in cinema halls. What is your opinion?

 

11. Examine the Outcomes of Marrakech climate conference

12. What is a LASER? How are water-wave lasers created?

     

   13. “Heart of Asia (HoA) Conference is significant for India”. Discuss

14. Was Khudiram Bose a patriot or a misguided youth?

15. Comment on the contribution by Dr Rajendra Prasad in the making of modern India

16. “India signed the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) and subsequently ratified the same on 1st October, 2007. Being a signatory to the Convention, India has an international obligation to comply with the provisions of the Convention”. IN this light, discuss India’s efforts through Rights of Persons With Disabilities (RPWD) Bill

17. “Shri R. Venkataraman, former President of India contributed to the both pre as well as post colonial India” Analyse

18. Various studies mention that at the global front there is around 34% participation by women at the entry level, however this percentage reduces drastically to merely 13% at the board level. Is this the effect of a glass ceiling effect? Comment

19. Suggest measures to keep afloat the legacy of Sanskrit as a language.

20. What is MERCOSUR? Does Venezuela’s suspension from the body indicate fractures in the organization?

21. What is biodiesel? Discuss its applications

22. What is digital economy? Discuss the challenges to digital economy

23. “More Aurovilles are required in India” Comment

24. How did the Napoleonic Wars influence the then European geopolitics?

25. “Influx of Chinese Firecrackers has become a matter of concern for India” Discuss

26. Highlight the recent Trade Agreement between India and Bhutan

27. What are the various steps taken to strengthen SEZs in the country?

28. What is Exercise Konkan 16 ? How are bilateral maritime exercises effective?

29. Evaluate the Impact of India’s INDC Commitment

30. Critically examine the feasibility of having All India Education Service

31. What are the salient features of the Central Sector Scheme for Rehabilitation of Bonded Labourers, 2016?

32. Discuss the Salient Features of the Draft Inland Vessels Bill, 2016

33. Critically evaluate the political thoughts of Dr Ambedkar

34. “Maximum fog occurrence over the Northwest India is about 48 days.” Discuss

35. Comment on India-Israel cooperation in science & ntechnoloogy

36. “Muslim women need to get liberated from fundamentalistic shackles” Discuss

37. What is Know and plan your district’ programmes for Collectors?

38. “In their latest breakthrough, Central Institute of Brackish Water Aquaculture (CIBA) scientists have bred Etroplus canarensis, a breed of fish assessed by the International Union of Conservation of Nature (IUCN) as endangered because of its restricted distribution.” How has this been possible?

39. Extremist groups are targeting temples and religious places. Suggest security measures to tackle this issue

40. Recently Kolkata has had number of fire incidents. What could be the possible causes & suggest remedies

41. Comment on Environmental impacts of GM Crops

42. Bring out the recommendations of a committee suggesting measures for India’s Water Reforms. [Mihir Shah Comm]

43. Discuss the features of the Mothers’ Absolute Affection Scheme

44. Of late, Bangladesh appears to breed a sense of fear for the minority community. Discuss its possible reasons & implications for India

45. Critically discuss the possible impediments in the working of the CBI & suggest reforms

46. Who are environmental refugees? Elaborate issues pertaining to them

47. What are the Important observations made by the supreme court in the Jagjit Singh Case?

48. Discuss the provision for Removal of Judges

49. Discuss the significance of the Pearl Harbour incident in the 2nd World War

50. What is Polar Sun Synchronous Orbit? What has been ISRO’s achievements in launching satellites in this regard?

51. What is economic territory?

52. “Urban Metro Rail Projects are game changers for the transportation problems” Discuss

53. Currently, India is ranked 130th out of 190 economies; as per Doing Business Report, 2017. What has India done to improve upon its position?

54. Write briefs on:

a. Advanced Heavy Water Reactor Technology

b. Scramjet Engine

c. Reusable Launch Vehicle

55. “The effects of globalization vary from country to country and from time to time. India’s economic liberalization has been calibrated and cautious especially insensitive sectors such as agriculture” Critically Discuss

56. How is the Indian Army reaching out to its veterans with the help of technology?

57. Earthquake - prone areas of the country have been identified on the basis of scientific inputs relating to seismicity, earthquakes occurred in the past and tectonic setup of the region. Comment

58. In order to provide social security benefits to the workers in the unorganised sector including domestic workers, the Government has enacted the Unorganised Workers’ Social Security Act, 2008. Discuss

59. What Are Cyclones? What are the different types of cyclones? Why Arabian Sea of late, has been a centre of cyclonic activity?

60. What is BCS theory? Can bismuth turn out to be an exception in the context of this theory?

61. Elaborate on the Rohingya Crisis.

62. Evalaute the Janani Suraksha Yojana

63. The Supreme Court is hearing a petition filed by NGO Common Cause which has sought a direction to the Centre to make the appointment of chairperson and members of Lokpal as per the amended rules framed under Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013. Discuss

64. Discuss government’s approach towards countering Maoist insurgency

65. Do you think that India should stay aloof with regard to China’s external affairs – like in South China Sea or Mongolia?

66. Major cities in the world are facing atmospheric pollution. Discuss the reasons

67. “Giraffes facing extinction after devastating decline.” Discuss. Also, high;ight the Red List of IUCN in this context

68. “It is good to boast about our past, but we need to be cautious in not being off the mark too much” Critically analyse

69. China is foraying into India;s neighbourhood. Comment

70. Discuss the crests & troughs of global oil prices and implications for India

71. “UDAY is an effort to make these DISCOMs financially and operationally healthy”. Elaborate

72. Critically analyse the position of child rights in India

73. State the functions and role of National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR)

74. “An amendment in the Protection of Human Rights (PHR) Act to make its recommendation effective is needed” Discuss

75. Discuss Ramanuja’s Philosophical Criticisms of Bhedābheda and Advaita Vedānta

76. Critcally analyse Rāmānuja's Place in the History of Indian Philosophy

77. “India and China must work towards convergences to dispel the idea that they were competing with each other” Is this possible?

78. Trace the rise of Boko Haram. Does it have any linkage with ISIS?

79. Highlight the recent impasse due to the creation of new districts in Manipur.

80. The Commission of Inquiry on Socio-Economic and Educational Conditions of Muslims in Telangana has recommended 12 per cent reservation or a minimum of 9 per cent to the community in social and educational sectors. Discuss

81. “Official data from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) show that the murder rate in India has been steadily declining over the past two decades.” Analyse

82. “India offers tsunami alert system to SCS countries”. Comment

83. China has launched a new cargo service linking Tibet and Nepal. Discuss implications for India

84. What is the 'One China' policy? How did it come about?

85. India uses an elaborate signal system ranging from 1 to 11, which is hoisted at the ports to warn vessels of a possible cyclonic storm. Describe

86. In the context of cyclone Vardah, state the different parts of a cyclone’s structure

87. Discuss the issues related to Delhi pollution

88. The digital payment revolution is the best disruption demonetisation has unleashed. Critcally examine

89. The practice of wrapping, covering or processing foods with newspaper and printed recycled paper materials in India is a contentious issue. Opine

90. A Parliamentary Standing Committee report accusing the Supreme Court of distorting the original constitutional mandate and showing an “unnecessary zeal” for primacy in judicial appointments has been tabled in the parliament. Analyse

91. There is estimated to be more than 100 million pieces of space junk in orbit, including discarded equipment from old satellites, tools and bits of rocket. In this context, discuss ways and means to clean space debris

92. How Plastic notes can tackle counterfeiting?

93. Write a short essay : “India, WTO & subsidies to fisherfolk”

94. India and Indonesia, the world’s most populous Muslim nation, have decided to expand their defence and maritime security ties and resolved to deal with terrorism. Discuss the significance of this tie-up.

95. “As for India’s application for Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) and listing issue pursuant to resolution of 1267 (to list Masood as a terrorist), China’s position remains unchanged”. In this light, trace the future of India-China relationship.

96. Trace the growth of Zardozi culture in India

97. Write short notes on : Doping, National Board for Wildlife

98. “Post Castro, Cuba inked ties with EU”. Does this further indicate end of socialism-communism?

99. With Venezuela going for demonetization, do you think it has followed the footsteps of India?

100. Bring out a comparison of RCEP & TPP.

101. Examine the key Highlights of Census 2011 data on Disabled population in India

102. Why are space telescopes needed? In this context, assess the features of the James Webb Space Telescope

103. Examine the amendments mooted for Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988

104. “Malaysia is undergoing a rupture out of this growing complex debate on the Sharia law and the hudud.” Discuss

105. Illustrate the role of NDRF in managing natural disasters

106. Comment on the following:
a. kafala’ labour system
b. Dress Code for women in Saudi Arabia

107. Critically examine the need of a robust cyber security architecture for India to tackle the growing digital intrusions.

108. As Digital India gains more traction, and the consumer and Industrial Internet of Things trends become more mature, security is bound to pose more challenges. Elucidate.

109. Indonesia was considered the weakest link in India’s Act East policy. Do you agree?

110.“In November 2016, people in India woke up to the news about the largest data breach in the country. It involved data stolen from 3.2 million debit cards between 25 May and 10 July from a network of bank ATMs, managed by a Japanese payment services company. After demonetisation, the Government of India is pushing for digital transactions. As India goes digital, experts must recognise the huge threat to the internet from hackers.” Critically examine India’s preparedness in this regard

111. Write short notes on:
a. Vanjeevan
b. Digital Discounts

112. Assess the contribution of Sardar patel in integrating India post independence

113. Bring out the contrast between Patel & JL Nehru

114. Discuss the concept of feminism in modern India

115. “Boosting school infrastructure and teacher training is essential for RTE to deliver greater equity” Discuss

116. China appears to have installed weapons, including anti-aircraft and anti-missile systems, on all seven of the artificial islands it has built in the South China Sea. Examine how China’s posture is threatening the geopolitical scenario in that region

117. The Supreme Court has ordered closure of all liquor shops along national and state highways in the country. What is your opinion?

118. Dalit Christians facing untouchability and discrimination – isn’t it a strange issue? Discuss

119. “It is essential to break economic sources of Maoists”. Critically analyse

120. Tipu fought the British ‘to preserve his own power and independence’, not for any higher ideal of national freedom. Critically examine

121. Highlight the salient features of the Major Port Trust Authorities Bill, 2016

122. In the backdrop of history, discuss India’s UNSC bid.

123. What are the measures being taken by Railways for safety and security of passengers including women passengers in trains?

124. In view of the Mohammed Zubair case, discuss the interpretation of Art 33 by the supreme court.

125. Discuss the menace of honour killings in India

126. Write a short essay on: FCRA & NGOs

127. Do you think of late, India is sounding reconciliatory w.r.t. Indus Water Treaty?

128. What is the difference between hurricane & cyclone?

129. Free speech in Algeria seems to be threatened. Discuss. Do you think India has an ambience of free speech?

130. The lives of adivasis are entwined with the Forests Rights Act. Critically analyse

131. NITI Aayog has come up to digitize India. How? Examine

132. “Gorkhaland Territorial Administration is a viable solution for the demands of the Gorkhas within the state of West Bengal.” Tender your opinion

133. “Tax Evasion & Political parties – the unholy thread?” Critically analyse

134. Present a detail on the Kuril Island issue & discuss its geopolitical significance

135. “Jammu and Kashmir has “no vestige” of sovereignty outside the Indian Constitution” Discuss

136. Write a note on India-Tajikistan security cooperation

137. There ought to be more schemes like ‘Laado Chaupal’. Do you agree?

138. “Point of Sale terminals are the instruments of digital revolution.” Analyse

139. What is Urban plus approach? Discuss its background

140. Discuss the various rules pertaining to Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Pet Shop) Rules, 2016

141. Critically examine India Indonesia relations, in the backdrop of India’s geopolitical goals in Asia

142. “India has vigorously expanded into space diplomacy as an instrument to expand Indian diplomatic clout and soft power as well as further its geo strategic interests” Analyse

143. “Cynical protestations will only contribute to declining public faith in the highest institution of democracy” Opine

144. Critcally assess Russia-Turkey relations in the wake of the assassination of Russian ambassador in Anakara

145. Why India Needs Smart Cities? Examine

146. Highlight the main achievements of Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) during the year 2016

147. “India, Kyrgyzstan and a global pact against terror”. Discuss

148. How is tribal malnourishment a critical issue in India?

149. Write short notes on: Chillai Kalan, Bhoomata Brigade

150. “The Bay of Bengal hosts a ‘dead zone’ of an estimated 60,000 square kilometers”: Examine

151. State & analyse the bottlenecks in Policy Implementation and Formulation in Water, Sanitation and Hygiene sectors

152. Present An overview on the Right of Persons with Disabilities Bill 2016

153. Discuss the Roles and Responsibilities of Anganwadi Workers

154. Throw light on India - Kazakhstan economic & trade ties

155. Write short notes: Lucky Grahak Yojana and Digi-Dhan Vyapar Yojana

156. “The Union Cabinet had approved the proposal for taking up Hybrid Annuity based Public Private Partnership (PPP) model under Namami Gange Programme which aims to reform the wastewater sector in India”. Discuss

157. Discuss the contribution made by SAHITYA AKADEMI

158. Write short notes : NASA & Mars mission , Nepal-China relations

159. In Civil Service, what should be the factor in promotion – seniority or merit? Explain

160. Discuss, with examples, the concept of criminal defamation

161. “Missing Children and Trafficking” – present a brief

162. Manipur has been facing sever hardships in supply of essential items since November 1, 2016 after United Naga Council (UNC) imposed an indefinite economic blockade on the two national highways. In this backdrop, critically analyse the govt’s way of handling the Naga issue

163 IN the context of Global Wage Report 2016-17, evaluate India’s performance

164. “The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has imposed a complete ban on burning of waste in open places” Critically examine

165. “The National Policy on Software Products visualizes the country’s rise of India as a leading global player in creation, production and supply of innovative software” Discuss

166. “Agni V is a weapon which when developed fully would satisfy India’s strategic interests completely.” Do you agree?

167. Examine the features of Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana for rural areas

168. “India belongs to the Hindus, the Mohammedans, the Sikhs, the Parsis and others. No single community can run over the rest. Your hand has five fingers. If you put off the thumb, the power of your hand will be reduced to one-tenth of its original power. Act in such away that all may unite… Let there be mutual trust.” [Madan Mohan Malviya] . Critically discuss

169. Give your opinion on New passport rules

170. How are National Waterways being developed?

171. A focus on establishing “soft borders” between India and Pakistan, rather than a final settlement of boundaries in Kashmir, can lead to New Delhi’s rapid integration into an expanded China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Discuss

172. IN the context of Katchatheevu island issue, analyse the India-Sri Lanka relations

173. “Warning against jingoism and populism, one of the icons of the freedom struggle, Rajaji had asked India to avoid ultra-conservative politics.” Critcally analyse

174. Write notes on:
a. Western Pacific Biotwang

b. Vibrant Gujarat Summit

174. “In a move intended to appease local sentiments, the Karnataka government has released draft amendments to the Karnataka Industrial Employment (Standing Orders) Rules of 1961 that would implement 100% reservation for Kannadigas for blue-collar jobs in the private sector” Critically examine the pros and cons

175. Detail the features of the Enemy Property (Amendment and Validation) Fifth Ordinance, 2016.

176. “The agenda for political, economic and social democracy remains unfinished because of continued disparity between the lives of the privileged and the rest”. Critically discuss in the Indian context

177. How Road Connectivity can help assuage Left Wing Extremism?

178. Discuss the features of National Biotechnology Development Strategy 2015-20

179. What is CLEAN INDIA MISSION? Elaborate

180. “Remission power lies with State”. Discuss this recent judgment of the Apex Court

181. With Agni V, can it be said that India’s nuclear deterrence capability has come of age?

182. “The tribal population in India lags behind other social groups on various social parameters, such as child mortality and infant mortality and women’s health” Critically examine

183. “The Bihar Cabinet on Tuesday declared 50 per cent reservation in all judicial services for aspirants belonging to the Extremely Backward Classes, Other Backward Classes, Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.” What is your opinion?

184. Is India’s current foreign policy distinctly different from its pre-2014 avatar?

185. Should FCRA go? Examine

186. “UN just a club for people to have a good time” Opine

187. “Nepal has rejected India’s ‘open sky’ offer to allow unlimited flights between the two countries” In this light, discuss India-Nepal bilateral relations

188. “Our traditions have always celebrated the ‘argumentative’ Indian not the ‘intolerant’ Indian.” Critically discuss

189. Assess the recent achievements of Department of Space, Govt of India

190. Write notes on: 
a. Swachh SwasthSarvatra’
b. Field Marshal Kodandera Madappa Cariappa

191. Discuss Myanmar Bangladesh relations in the context of Rohingya issue

192. Deoband has issued a fatwa endorsing triple talaq (divorce by uttering the word talaq thrice in quick succession) over the phone. What are your views on this?

193. State the origin of the Israel-Palestine conflict. Discuss India’s standpoint on this

194. Discuss the important provisions of the SEXUAL HARASSMENT OF WOMEN AT WORKPLACE (PREVENTION, PROHIBITION AND REDRESSAL) ACT 2013

195. Present briefs on:
a. International Solar Alliance
b. AMRUT

196. Citing instances, discuss how MILITARY EXERCISES enhance bilateral relationship?

197. Present a brief on the latest achievements of DRDO

198. What are the Digital India initiatives of the Indian Railways

199. “Women suffer considerably higher levels of work-related stress, anxiety and depression than men” Discuss

200. Critically examine the recent contentious issues related to India-China bilateral relation.