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New Solar Projects: NTPC Why in News Recently, National Thermal Power Corporation CURRENT AFFAIRS JULY 2021 19 Note: www.drishtiIAS.com Limited (NTPC) Renewable Energy Ltd (REL) signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Union Territory of Ladakh to set up the country’s first Green Hydrogen Mobility project. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
¾ NTPC REL will also set up a solar park at Rann of Kutch in Gujarat from where it will also generate green hydrogen on a commercial scale under the Ultra-Mega Renewable Energy Power Parks (UMREPP) scheme.
Hydrogen produced from renewable sources is called green hydrogen.
Ultra-Mega Renewable Energy Power Parks (UMREPP) Scheme ¾ It is a scheme to develop Ultra Mega Renewable Energy Power Parks (UMREPPs) under the existing Solar Park Scheme. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
The scheme was rolled out by the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE) in 2014.
Solar Park Scheme is also a scheme of MNRE to set up a number of solar parks across various states in the country.
It proposes to provide financial support by the Government of India to establish solar parks. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
¾ The objective of the UMREPP is to provide land upfront to the project developer and facilitate transmission infrastructure for developing Renewable Energy (RE) based Power Parks with solar/wind/hybrid and also with storage systems.
Key Points ¾ Green Hydrogen Mobility Project: NTPC REL has planned to ply 5 hydrogen buses, to start with, in the region and the company will be setting up a solar plant and a green hydrogen generation unit in Leh towards this end. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
This will put Leh as the first city in the country to implement a green hydrogen based mobility project.
This would be zero emission mobility in true sense.
This is also in line with the Prime Minister’s vision of a ‘carbon neutral’ Ladakh.
It will help Ladakh develop a carbon free economy based on renewable sources and green hydrogen.
¾ India’s Largest Solar Park: NTPC REL will set up a 4.75 gigawatt (GW) renewable energy park at Rann of Kutch in Khavada, Gujarat. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
This will be India’s largest solar park to be built by the largest power producer of the country.
z Kutch region in Gujarat, the largest salt desert in the country and host to two of India’s largest coal-fired power plants, will now add another feather to its cap.
¾ Other Major Projects of NTPC: Recently, NTPC has also commissioned India’s largest Floating Solar of 10 MW (ac) on the reservoir of Simhadri Thermal Power Plant, Andhra Pradesh.
An additional 15 MW (ac) would be commissioned by August 2021. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Further, a 100 MW Floating Solar Project on the reservoir of Ramagundam Thermal Power Plant, Telangana is in the advanced stage of implemen tation.
¾ Other Solar Energy Initiatives: National Solar Mission : Solar energy has taken a central place in India’s National Action Plan on Climate Change with the National Solar Mission as one of the key Missions. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
INDC’s target: It targets installing 100 GW grid-connected solar power plants by the year 2022. z This is in line with India’s Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs) target to achieve about 40% cumulative electric power installed capacity from non-fossil fuel based energy resources and to reduce the emission intensity of its GDP by 33 to 35% from 2005 level by 2030. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Launch of ISA: The launch of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) was announced by the Prime Minister of India and the President of France in 2015, at the 21st session of the United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP- 21) in Paris, France.
z Government Schemes: Such as Solar Park Scheme, Canal bank & Canal top Scheme, Bundling Scheme, Grid Connected Solar Rooftop Scheme etc. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
z One Sun One World One Grid: India has an ambitious cross-border power grid plan ‘One Sun One World One Grid’ that seeks to transfer solar power generated in one region to feed the electricity demands of others.
20 CURRENT AFFAIRS JULY 2021 Note: www.drishtiIAS.com Department of Public Enterprises Why in News Recently, the government reallocated the Department of Public Enterprises (DPE) to the finance ministry from the ministry of heavy industries. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
¾ The Finance Ministry will now have six departments while DPE’s parent ministry, the Ministry of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises will now be called the Ministry of Heavy Industries.
Key Points ¾ About: It is the nodal department for all the Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) and formulates policy pertaining to CPSEs.
z CPSEs are those companies in which the direct holding of the Central Government or other CPSEs is 51% or more. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
It lays down, in particular, policy guidelines on performance improvement and evaluation, autonomy and financial delegation and personnel management in CPSEs.
It furthermore collects and maintains information in the form of a Public Enterprises Survey on several areas in respect of CPSEs.
z It will now be the sixth department in the finance ministry besides economic affairs, revenue, expenditure, financial services and Department of Investment and Public Asset Management (DIPAM). | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
The shift of DPE to the Finance Ministry will help in efficient monitoring of the capital expenditure, asset monetisation and financial health of the CPSEs.
¾ Background: In their report, the Estimates Committee of 3rd Lok Sabha (1962-67) stressed the need for setting up a centralized coordinating unit, which could also make continuous appraisal of the performance of public enterprises.
Which led to the setting up of the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) in 1965 in the Ministry of Finance. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
In 1985, BPE was made part of the Ministry of Industry.
In May, 1990, BPE was made a full- fledged Department known as the Department of Public Enterprises (DPE).
¾ Major Functions: Coordination of matters of general policy affecting all Public Sector Enterprises (PSEs).
Restructuring or closure of PSEs including the mechanisms.
Rendering advice relating to revival.
Counselling, training and rehabilitation of employees in CPSEs under Voluntary Retirement Scheme. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Categorisation of CPSEs including conferring ‘Ratna’ status, among others.
z CPSEs are classified into 3 categories- Maharatna, Navratna and Miniratna.
Presently, there are 10 Maharatna, 14 Navratna and 74 Miniratna CPSEs.
NIPUN Bharat Mission Why in News The Ministry of Education has launched NIPUN (National Initiative for Proficiency in Reading with Understanding and Numeracy) Bharat Scheme.
¾ It aims to cover the learning needs of children in the age group of 3 to 9 years. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Key Points ¾ Part of NEP 2020: This initiative is being launched as a part of NEP (National Education Policy) 2020.
This policy aims to pave the way for transformational reforms in school and higher education systems in the country.
This policy replaced the 34 year old National Policy on Education (NPE),1986. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
¾ Objective: To create an enabling environment to ensure universal acquisition of foundational literacy and numeracy, so that every child achieves the desired learning competencies in reading, writing and numeracy by the end of Grade 3, by 2026-27. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
¾ Focus Areas: It will focus on providing access and retaining children in foundational years of schooling; teacher CURRENT AFFAIRS JULY 2021 21 Note: www.drishtiIAS.com capacity building; development of high quality and diversified Student and Teacher Resources/ Learning Materials; and tracking the progress of each child in achieving learning outcomes.
¾ Implementation: NIPUN Bharat will be implemented by the Department of School Education and Literacy. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
A five-tier implementation mechanism will be set up at the National- State- District- Block- School level in all States and UTs, under the aegis of the centrally sponsored scheme of Samagra Shiksha.
z ‘Samagra Shiksha’ programme was launched subsuming three existing schemes: Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA), Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan (RMSA) and Teacher Education (TE).
z The aim of the scheme is to treat school education holistically, from pre-school to Class XII. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
A special package for foundational literacy and Numeracy (FLN) under NISHTHA (National Initiative for School Heads and Teachers Holistic Advancement) is being developed by NCERT.
z Around 25 lakh teachers teaching at pre-primary to primary grade will be trained this year on FLN.
z NISHTHA is a capacity building programme for “Improving Quality of School Education through Integrated Teacher Training”.
Stage-wise targets are being set in a continuum from the pre-primary or balvatika classes. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Global Cybersecurity Index: ITU Why in News Recently, India was ranked tenth (10th) in Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI) 2020 by ITU (International Telecommunication Union) by moving up 37 places.
¾ The affirmation came just ahead of the sixth anniversary of Digital India on 1st July.
Key Points ¾ Top Ranking: The US topped (1st), followed by the UK (United Kingdom) and Saudi Arabia tied on the second position together.
Estonia was ranked third (3rd) in the index. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Estonia was ranked third (3rd) in the index.
¾ Results for India: India scored a total of 97.5 points from a possible maximum of 100 points, to make it to the tenth position worldwide in the GCI 2020.
India secured the fourth position in the Asia Pacific region.
India is emerging as a global IT superpower, asserting its digital sovereignty with firm measures to safeguard data privacy and online rights of citizens. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
The result shows substantial overall improvement and strengthening under all parameters of the cybersecurity domain.
¾ Basis of Assessment: On the basis of performance on five parameters of cybersecurity, which are, z Legal measures, technical measures, organisational measures, capacity development, and cooperation.
The performance is then aggregated into an overall score. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
¾ International Telecommunication Union: It is the United Nations specialized agency for information and communication technologies – ICTs.
Founded in 1865 to facilitate international connectivity in communications networks.
It is Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland.
It allocates global radio spectrum and satellite orbits, develops the technical standards that ensure networks and technologies seamlessly interconnect, and strives to improve access to ICTs to underserved communities worldwide. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Recently, India got elected as a member of ITU Council for another 4-year term-from 2019 to 2022.
India has remained a regular member since 1952.
¾ Challenges to Cyber Security in India: Deploying multiple cybersecurity tools reinforces a fragmented and complex security environment that is prone to risks arising from human error.
Cybersecurity challenges companies face as they shift the majority of their employees to a remote working arrangement in a really short period of time. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
India lacks indigenization in hardware as well as software cybersecurity tools.
This makes India’s cyberspace vulnerable to cyberattacks motivated by state and non-state actors.
22 CURRENT AFFAIRS JULY 2021 Note: www.drishtiIAS.com z India doesn’t have an ‘active cyber defense’ like the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) or the US’ Clarifying Lawful Overseas Use of Data (CLOUD) Act. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
¾ Efforts to Improve Cyber Security in India: National Cyber Security Strategy 2020: It is being formulated to improve cyber awareness and cybersecurity through more stringent audits.
Draft Personal Data Protection Bill, 2018 (based on the recommendation of Justice BN Srikrishna Committee) to secure citizens’ data.
The scheme to set up I4C (Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre) was approved in October 2018, to deal with all types of cybercrimes in a comprehensive and coordinated manner. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
National Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) functions as the nodal agency for coordination of all cyber security efforts, emergency responses, and crisis management.
Protection and resilience of critical information infrastructure with the set up of National Critical Information Infrastructure Protection Centre (NCIIPC). | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
¾ International Mechanisms: Budapest Convention on Cybercrime: It is an international treaty that seeks to address Internet and computer crime by harmonizing national laws, improving investigative techniques, and increasing cooperation among nations.
It came into force on 1st July 2004.
India is not a signatory to this convention.
Internet Governance Forum (IGF): It brings together all stakeholders i.e.
government, private sector and civil society on the Internet governance debate. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Six Years of Digital India Programme Why in News Recently, the Prime Minister of India addressed a virtual event to mark the completion of six years of Digital Indian programme.
Key Points ¾ Important Points of Address: India’s Techade: The data and demographic dividend combined with India’s proven tech prowess presents massive opportunity for the country, and this decade will be ‘India’s techade’. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Highlighted Various Schemes of Digital India programme: z Diksha: It stands for Digital Infrastructure for Knowledge Sharing.
It serves as National Digital Infrastructure for Teachers.
All teachers across the nation will be equipped with advanced digital technology.
z eNAM: It was launched on 14th April 2016 as a pan-India electronic trade portal linking Agricultural Produce Market Committees (APMCs) across the States. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
z eSanjeevani: It is a telemedicine service platform of the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare.
z DigiBunai: DigiBunai aids the weavers to create digital artwork and translate the saree design to be loaded to the looms.
DigiBunai™ is a first of its kind Open Source software for Jacquard and dobby weaving.
z PM SVANidhi scheme: The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) has launched Pradhan Mantri Street Vendor’s AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi), for providing affordable loans to street vendors. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
It incentivises digital transactions by the street vendors.
Digital solutions during Covid-19: Contact tracing app, Aarogya Setu.
¾ Digital India Programme: It was launched in 2015.
The programme has been enabled for several important Government schemes, such as BharatNet, Make in India, Startup India and Standup India, industrial corridors, etc.
Vision Areas: z Digital infrastructure as Utility to Every Citizen.
z Governance and services on demand.
z Digital empowerment of citizens. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
z Digital empowerment of citizens.
Objectives: z To prepare India for a knowledge future.
z For being transformative that is to realize IT (Indian Talent) + IT (Information Technology) = IT (India Tomorrow).
z Making technology central to enabling change.
On being an Umbrella Programme – covering many departments. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
CURRENT AFFAIRS JULY 2021 23 Note: www.drishtiIAS.com UDISE+ 2019-20 Report Why in News Recently, the Union Education Minister released the Report on United Information System for Education Plus (UDISE+) 2019-20 for School Education in India.
United Information System for Education Plus ¾ It is one of the largest Management Information Systems on school education.
It was launched in 2018-2019 to speed up data entry, reduce errors, improve data quality and ease its verification. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
¾ It is an application to collect the school details about factors related to a school and its resources.
It is an updated and improved version of UDISE, which was initiated in 2012-13 by the Ministry of Education.
¾ It covers more than 1.5 million schools, 8.5 million teachers and 250 million children.
¾ It helps measure the education parameters from classes 1 to 12 in government and private schools across India. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Key Points ¾ Total Students: In 2019-20, total students in school education from pre-primary to higher secondary have crossed 26.45 crore.
This is higher by 42.3 lakh compared to 2018-19.
¾ Gross Enrolment Ratio: Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) at all levels of school education has improved in 2019-20 compared to 2018-19. z Upper Primary level increased to 89.7% from 87.7%.
z Elementary Level increased to 97.8% from 96.1%.
z Secondary Level increased to 77.9% from 76.9%. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
z Secondary Level increased to 77.9% from 76.9%.
z Higher Secondary Level increased to 51.4% from 50.1%.
GER is the number of students enrolled in a given level of education, regardless of age, expressed as a percentage of the official school-age population corresponding to the same level of education.
¾ Pupil Teacher Ratio: In 2019-20, 96.87 lakh teachers were engaged in school education.
This is higher by about 2.57 lakh compared to 2018-19. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
The Pupil Teacher Ratio (PTR) has improved at all levels of school education.
¾ Enrolment of Divyang Students: Enrolment of Divyang students has increased by 6.52% over 2018-19.
¾ Enrolment of Girls: In 2019-20, enrolment of girls from primary to higher secondary is more than 12.08 crore.
This is an increase by 14.08 lakh compared to 2018-19.
¾ Gender Parity Index: Between 2012-13 and 2019-20, the Gender Parity Index (GPI) at both Secondary and Higher Secondary levels have improved. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
z GPI in primary, secondary and tertiary education is the ratio of the number of female students enrolled at primary, secondary and tertiary levels of education to the number of male students in each level.
Improvement of GPI has been most pronounced at the higher secondary level, which has gone up to 1.04 in 2019-20 from 0.97 in 2012-13.
¾ Facilities at Schools: Electricity: More than 80% of schools in India in 2019-20 had functional electricity. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
This is an improvement of more than 6% over the previous year 2018-19.
24 CURRENT AFFAIRS JULY 2021 Note: www.drishtiIAS.com Computers: The number of schools having functional computers increased to 5.2 lakh in 2019-20 from 4.7 lakh in 2018-19.
Internet: The number of schools having internet facilities increased to 3.36 lakh in 2019-20 from 2.9 lakh in 2018-19.
Hand Wash Facility: More than 90% of schools in India had hand wash facilities in 2019-20. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
This is a major improvement as this percentage was only 36.3% in 2012-13.
Medical Check-Ups: More than 82% of schools conducted medical check-ups of students in 2019-20, an increase of more than 4% compared to the previous year 2018-19.
¾ Some Important Government Initiatives: New National Education Policy (NEP), 2020.
Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan.
Mid Day Meal Scheme.
Right To Education (RTE) Act, 2009.
Beti Bachao Beti Padhao. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Beti Bachao Beti Padhao.
nnn CURRENT AFFAIRS JULY 2021 25 Note: www.drishtiIAS.com Inflation Data: June 2021 Why in News Recently, the Office of the Economic Adviser, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade has released the Wholesale Price Index (WPI) for the month of June, 2021.
Key Points ¾ Wholesale Price- Inflation: Inflation in wholesale prices stayed high in June 2021 at 12.07% following the record high of 12.94% in May 2021. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
¾ Reason: The high rate of inflation in June 2021, is primarily due to low base effect.
z Base effect: It is the effect that choosing a different reference point for a comparison between two data points can have on the result of the comparison.
Rise in prices of mineral oils viz petrol, diesel, naphtha, furnace oil etc.
Increased costs of manufactured products like basic metal, food products, chemical products etc as compared the corresponding month of the previous year. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
z Retail inflation based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI), was at 6.26% in June 2021.
¾ Implication: Wholesale Price- Inflation’s potential to spill over into retail inflation (CPI inflation) levels will inject ‘uneasiness’ in the monetary policy.
z Monetary policy is the macroeconomic policy laid down by the central bank. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
It involves management of money supply and interest rate and is the demand side economic policy used by the government of a country to achieve macroeconomic objectives like inflation, consumption, growth and liquidity.
Wholesale Price Index ¾ It measures the changes in the prices of goods sold and traded in bulk by wholesale businesses to other businesses.
¾ Published by the Office of Economic Adviser, Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
¾ It is the most widely used inflation indicator in India. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
¾ Major criticism for this index is that the general public does not buy products at wholesale price.
¾ The base year of All-India WPI has been revised from 2004-05 to 2011-12 in 2017. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Economic Scenario z Inflation Data: June 2021 z India’s Covid-19 Emergency Response Package: Phase II z Agriculture Infrastructure Fund z Fertiliser Self-Sufficiency z Special Livestock Sector Package z RBI’s Retail Direct Scheme z Sankalp Se Siddhi: Mission Van Dhan z Matsya Setu z GI Certified Bhalia Wheat: Gujarat z Youth and Food System z Authorised Economic Operators Programme z Anti-Dumping Duty z Forex Reserves z Contraction of India’s Manufacturing Sector: PMI z Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme z Open Network for Digital Commerce z World Bank Support to India’s Informal Working Class z Four Years of the GST z Financial Stability Report: RBI z New Norms for Independent Directors z Ministry of Cooperation: A New Push to Co-operatives z Output Pact: OPEC+ Highlights 26 CURRENT AFFAIRS JULY 2021 Note: www.drishtiIAS.com Consumer Price Index ¾ It measures price changes from the perspective of a retail buyer. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
It is released by the National Statistical Office (NSO).
¾ The CPI calculates the difference in the price of commodities and services such as food, medical care, education, electronics etc, which Indian consumers buy for use.
¾ The CPI has several sub-groups including food and beverages, fuel and light, housing and clothing, bedding and footwear.
¾ Four types of CPI are as follows: CPI for Industrial Workers (IW).
CPI for Agricultural Labourer (AL).
CPI for Rural Labourer (RL). | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
CPI for Rural Labourer (RL).
CPI (Rural/Urban/Combined).
Of these, the first three are compiled by the Labour Bureau in the Ministry of Labour and Employment.
Fourth is compiled by the NSO in the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation.
¾ Base Year for CPI in general is 2012.
However the base year for CPI for Industrial Worker (CPI-IW) is 2016.
¾ The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) uses CPI data to control inflation (within range 4+/-2%). | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
In April 2014, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) had adopted the CPI as its key measure of inflation.
CPI vs. WPI ¾ WPI tracks inflation at the producer level and CPI captures changes in prices levels at the consumer level.
¾ WPI does not capture changes in the prices of services, which CPI does.
Inflation ¾ Inflation refers to the rise in the prices of most goods and services of daily or common use, such as food, clothing, housing, recreation, transport, consumer staples, etc. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
¾ Inflation measures the average price change in a basket of commodities and services over time.
¾ Inflation is indicative of the decrease in the purchasing power of a unit of a country’s currency.
This could ultimately lead to a deceleration in economic growth.
¾ However, a moderate level of inflation is required in the economy to ensure that production is promoted. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
¾ In India, inflation is primarily measured by two main indices —WPI & CPI which measure wholesale and retail-level price changes, respectively.
Core Inflation ¾ It is the change in the costs of goods and services but does not include those from the food and energy sectors.
This measure of inflation excludes these items because their prices are much more volatile.
Core inflation = Headline inflation – (Food and Fuel) inflation. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
India’s Covid-19 Emergency Response Package: Phase II Why in News The Union Cabinet has recently approved a Rs.
23,123 crore package to boost emergency response and healthcare systems.
¾ It includes funding for 20,000 additional ICU (intensive care unit) beds and the setting up of paediatric units in all districts, ahead of a potential third wave of Covid-19 in the country. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Key Points ¾ Background: Phase I of Package: In March 2020, when the country was faced with the first wave of the Covid-19 pandemic, the Central Sector Scheme of Rs.
15,000 crore was announced for the “India Covid-19 Emergency Response and Health Systems Preparedness Package”.
z It aimed at providing a critical impetus to the efforts of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) and States/UTs, and catalysing health systems activities for pandemic management. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Since mid-February 2021, the country is experiencing a second wave which has spread into rural, peri- urban and tribal areas.
¾ Phase II of Package: The Phase-II of the Package has Central Sector (CS) and Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS) components.
z The Union government fully funds the central sector schemes, whereas centrally sponsored CURRENT AFFAIRS JULY 2021 27 Note: www.drishtiIAS.com schemes are jointly funded by the Centre and states. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
It would be implemented from 1st July 2021 to 31st March 2022.
¾ Purpose: Includes funding for paediatric units in all 736 districts, and the setting up of 20,000 ICU beds, 20% of which would be “hybrid”, that is, for adults as well as children.
z There are apprehensions about a third wave of Covid-19 affecting children more than before. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
It is aimed at preventing the problems observed during the second wave, including lack of transport facilities for oxygen and shortage of medicines, from happening again.
The Centre would provide support to its hospitals, the All India Institutes of Medical Sciences, and other institutes of national importance, for repurposing 6,688 beds for Covid-19 management.
Genome sequencing machines would be provided to the National Centre for Disease Control. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
The package would also provide for the expansion of the national telemedicine platform, eSanjeevani, by increasing daily consultations from 50,000 at present to 5 lakh.
States would be supported to carry out at least 21.5 lakh tests a day and add 8,800 ambulances.
Agriculture Infrastructure Fund Why in News Recently, the Union Cabinet approved some modifications in the Central Sector Scheme of Financing Facility under ‘Agriculture Infrastructure Fund’. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Key Points ¾ Launch: It was launched in 2020 as a part of the Rs.
20 lakh crore stimulus package announced in response to the Covid-19 crisis.
¾ Aim: To provide medium-long term debt financing facility for investment in viable projects for post- harvest management Infrastructure and community farming assets. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
The funds will be provided for setting up of cold stores and chains, warehousing, grading and packaging units, e-marketing points linked to e-trading platforms, besides PPP (Public Private Partnership) projects for crop aggregation sponsored by central/state/local bodies.
¾ Duration: Extended to 13 years upto 2032-33. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
¾ Duration: Extended to 13 years upto 2032-33.
¾ Features: Eligible Beneficiaries: z They are Farmers, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), Primary Agricultural Credit Society (PACS), Marketing Cooperative Societies, Self Help Groups (SHGs), Joint Liability Groups (JLG), Multipurpose Cooperative Societies, Agri-entrepreneurs, Start-ups, and Central/State agency or Local Body sponsored PPP Projects. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
z Eligibility has been extended to State agencies and Agricultural Produce Marketing Committees (APMCs), as well as federations of cooperative organisations, FPOs and SHGs.
Financial Support: Rs.
1 Lakh Crore will be provided by banks and financial institutions as loans to eligible beneficiaries.
z Moratorium for repayment may vary subject to minimum of 6 months and maximum of 2 years.
Interest Subvention: Loans will have interest subvention of 3% per annum up to a limit of Rs.
2 crore. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
2 crore.
This subvention will be available for a maximum period of seven years.
CGTMSE Scheme: A credit guarantee coverage will be available for eligible borrowers from this financing facility under Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) scheme for a loan up to Rs.
2 crore.
¾ Management: The fund will be managed and monitored through an online Management Information System (MIS) platform.
It will enable all the qualified entities to apply for loans under the Fund. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
The National, State and District level monitoring committees will be set up to ensure real-time monitoring and effective feed-back.
Fertiliser Self-Sufficiency Why in News Recently, the Minister of Chemicals and Fertilisers has reviewed the initiatives of the Department of Fertilisers for making India Atmanirbhar in Fertilisers. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
28 CURRENT AFFAIRS JULY 2021 Note: www.drishtiIAS.com ¾ The Government is planning to liberalise Market Development Assistance (MDA) policy to promote the use of alternative fertilisers.
Key Points ¾ MDA Policy: MDA policy was earlier limited to city compost only.
There were demands to expand this policy by incorporating organic waste like Biogas, Green Manure, organic compost of rural areas, solid/ liquid slurry, etc.
This expansion will fully complement the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
¾ Government Initiatives and Schemes: Neem Coating of Urea: z The Department of Fertilizers (DoF) has made it mandatory for all the domestic producers to produce 100% urea as Neem Coated Urea (NCU).
z The benefits of use of NCU are as under:- Improvement in soil health.
Reduction in usage of plant protection chemicals.
Reduction in pest and disease attack.
An increase in yield of paddy, sugarcane, maize, soybean, Tur/Red Gram.
Negligible diversion towards non-agricultural purposes. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Due to slow release of Nitrogen, Nitrogen Use Efficiency (NUE) of Neem Coated Urea increases resulting in reduced consumption of NCU as compared to normal urea.
New Urea Policy (NUP) 2015: z Objectives of the policy are- To maximize indigenous urea production.
To promote energy efficiency in the urea units.
To rationalize the subsidy burden on the Government of India. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
New Investment Policy- 2012: z The Government announced New Investment Policy (NIP)-2012 in January, 2013 and made amendments in 2014 to facilitate fresh invest ment in the urea sector and to make India self-sufficient in the urea sector.
Policy on Promotion of City Compost: z The Government of India approved a policy on promotion of City Compost, notified by the DoF in 2016 granting Market Development Assistance of Rs.
1500/- for scaling up production and consumption of city compost. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
z To increase sales volumes, compost manufacturers willing to market city compost were allowed to sell city compost in bulk directly to farmers.
z Fertilizer companies marketing city compost are covered under the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) for Fertilizers. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Use of Space Technology in Fertilizer Sector: z DoF commissioned a three year Pilot Study on “Resource Mapping of Rock Phosphate using Reflectance Spectroscopy and Earth Observations Data” by National Remote Sensing Centre under ISRO, in collaboration with Geological Survey of India (GSI) and the Atomic Mineral Directorate (AMD).
The Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) Scheme: z It has been implemented from April 2010 by the DoF. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
z Under NBS, a fixed amount of subsidy decided on an annual basis, is provided on each grade of subsidized Phosphatic & Potassic (P&K) fertilizers depending on its nutrient content.
z It aims at ensuring the balanced use of fertilizers, improving agricultural productivity, promoting the growth of the indigenous fertilizers industry and also reducing the burden of Subsidy. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Fertilizer Consumption in India ¾ India’s fertiliser consumption in FY20 was about 61 million tonnes — of which 55% was urea—and is estimated to have increased by 5 million tonnes in FY21.
Since non-urea (MoP, DAP, complex) varieties cost higher, many farmers prefer to use more urea than actually needed.
The government has taken a number of measures to reduce urea consumption.
It introduced neem- coated urea to reduce illegal diversion of urea for non-agricultural uses. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
It also stepped up the promotion of organic and zero-budget farming.
Currently, the fertiliser production of the country is 42-45 million tonnes, and imports are at around 18 million tonnes.
CURRENT AFFAIRS JULY 2021 29 Note: www.drishtiIAS.com ¾ Subsidy on Urea: The Centre pays subsidy on urea to fertiliser manufacturers on the basis of cost of production at each plant and the units are required to sell the fertiliser at the government-set Maximum Retail Price (MRP). | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
¾ Subsidy on Non-Urea Fertilisers: The MRPs of non-urea fertilisers are decontrolled or fixed by the companies.
The Centre, however, pays a flat per-tonne subsidy on these nutrients to ensure they are priced at “reasonable levels”.
Examples of non-urea fertilisers: Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP), Muriate of Potash (MOP).
All Non-Urea based fertilisers are regulated under Nutrient Based Subsidy Scheme. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Special Livestock Sector Package Why in News The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved implementation of a special livestock sector package.
Key Points ¾ About the Package: Aim: To boost growth in the livestock sector and thereby making animal husbandry more remunerative to 10 crore farmers engaged in Animal Husbandry Sector.
Total Amount: The Central government will spend Rs.
9,800 crore on livestock development over the next five years in a bid to leverage almost Rs. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
55,000 crore of outside investment into the sector.
z It includes the share of investments by State Governments, State Cooperatives, Financial institutions, External funding agencies and other stakeholders.
¾ Merger of Schemes: The package has been designed by revising and realigning various components of the Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying’ Schemes for the next five years, starting 2021-22. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
All the schemes of the Department will be merged into three broad categories as: z Development Programmes: It includes Rashtriya Gokul Mission, National Programme for Dairy Development (NPDD), National Livestock Mission (NLM) and Livestock Census and Integrated Sample Survey (LC & ISS) as sub-schemes. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
z Disease Control Programme: It is renamed as Livestock Health and Disease Control (LH & DC) which includes the present Livestock Health and Disease Control (LH & DC) scheme and National Animal Disease Control Programme (NADCP). | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
z Infrastructure Development Fund: The Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development fund (AHIDF) and the Dairy Infrastructure Develop ment Fund (DIDF) are merged and the present scheme for support to Dairy Cooperatives and Farmer Producer Organizations engaged in Dairy activities is also included in this third category. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
National Livestock Mission (NLM) ¾ NlM was launched in the 2014-15 financial year and seeks to ensure quantitative and qualitative improvement in livestock production systems and capacity building of all stakeholders.
¾ The scheme is being implemented as a sub scheme of White Revolution - Rashtriya Pashudhan Vikas Yojana from April 2019.
¾ The mission is organised into the following four Sub - Missions: Sub-Mission on Livestock Development.
Sub-Mission on Pig Development in North- Eastern Region. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Sub-Mission on Feed and Fodder Development.
Sub-Mission on Skill Development, Technology Transfer and Extension.
RBI’s Retail Direct Scheme Why in News Recently, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced the ‘RBI Retail Direct’ Scheme.
¾ In February 2021 RBI proposed to allow retail investors to open gilt accounts with the central bank to invest in Government securities (G-secs) directly. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Key Points ¾ About: Under the scheme, retail investors (individuals) will 30 CURRENT AFFAIRS JULY 2021 Note: www.drishtiIAS.com have the facility to open and maintain the ‘Retail Direct Gilt Account’ (RDG Account) with the RBI.
z Retail Investor is a non-professional investor who buys and sells securities or funds that contain a basket of securities such as mutual funds and Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs). | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
z A Gilt Account can be compared with a bank account, except that the account is debited or credited with treasury bills or government securities instead of money.
RDG accounts can be opened through an online portal provided for the purpose of the scheme.
The online portal will give registered users access to primary issuance of G-secs and access to Negotiated Dealing System-Order Matching system (NDS-OM).
z The RBI introduced the NDS-OM in August 2005. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
z The RBI introduced the NDS-OM in August 2005.
It is an electronic, screen based, anonymous, order driven trading system for dealing in G-secs.
It is a one-stop solution to facilitate investment in G-secs by individual investors.
z RBI seeks to democratize the ownership of government debt securities beyond banks and managers of pooled resources such as mutual funds. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
¾ Current G-Sec Market: The G-sec market is dominated by institutional investors which are large market actors such as banks, mutual funds and insurance companies.
z These entities trade in lot sizes of Rs 5 crore or more.
So, there is no liquidity in the secondary market for small investors who would want to trade in smaller lot sizes.
z The primary market is where securities are created, while the secondary market is where those securities are traded by investors. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
There is no easy way for them to exit their investments.
Thus, currently, direct G-secs trading is not popular among retail investors.
¾ Significance: Improved Ease of Access: z It will make the process of G-sec trading smoother for small investors therefore it will raise retail participation in G-secs and will improve ease of access. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Facilitate Government Borrowings: z This measure together with relaxation in mandatory Hold To Maturity (securities that are purchased to be owned until maturity) provisions will facilitate smooth completion of the government borrowing programme in 2021-22.
Financialise Domestic Savings: z Allowing direct retail participation in the G-Sec market will promote financialisation of a vast pool of domestic savings and could be a game- changer in India’s investment market. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
¾ Other Measures Taken to Increase Retail Investment in Government Securities: Introduction of non-competitive bidding in primary auctions.
z Non-competitive bidding means the bidder would be able to participate in the auctions of dated government securities without having to quote the yield or price in the bid.
Stock exchanges to act as aggregators and facilitators of retail bids.
Allowing a specific retail segment in the secondary market. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Government Security ¾ A G-Sec is a tradable instrument issued by the Central Government or the State Governments.
¾ It acknowledges the Government’s debt obliga tion.
Such securities are short term (usually called treasury bills, with original maturities of less than one year- presently issued in three tenors, namely, 91 day, 182 day and 364 day) or long term (usually called Government bonds or dated securities with original maturity of one year or more). | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
¾ In India, the Central Government issues both treasury bills and bonds or dated securities while the State Governments issue only bonds or dated securities, which are called the State Development Loans (SDLs).
¾ G-Secs carry practically no risk of default and, hence, are called risk-free gilt-edged instruments.
Gilt-edged securities are high-grade invest- ment bonds offered by governments and large corporations as a means of borrowing funds. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
CURRENT AFFAIRS JULY 2021 31 Note: www.drishtiIAS.com Sankalp Se Siddhi: Mission Van Dhan Why in News Recently, the Minister of Tribal Affairs reviewed various initiatives under ‘Sankalp Se Siddhi-Mission Vand Dhan’, by TRIFED (Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India).
TRIFED ¾ The Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India (TRIFED) came into existence in 1987. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
¾ It is a national-level apex organization functioning under the administrative control of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.
¾ The ultimate objective of TRIFED is socio-economic development of tribal people in the country by way of marketing development of the tribal products such as metal craft, tribal textiles, pottery, tribal paintings and pottery on which the tribals depends heavily for a major portion of their income. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Key Points ¾ About ‘Sankalp se Siddhi’: The ‘Sankalp Se Siddhi’ initiative, also known as ‘Mission Van Dhan’, was introduced by the central government in 2021, in line with the Prime Minister’s aim to establish a sustainable livelihood for India’s tribal population.
Through this mission, TRIFED aims to expand its operation through convergence of various schemes of different ministries and departments and launch various tribal development programmes in mission mode. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Through this mission, establishment of several Van Dhan Vikas Kendras (VDVKs), haat bazaars, mini TRIFOOD units, common facility centres, TRIFOOD parks, SFRUTI (Scheme of Fund for regeneration of traditional industries) clusters, tribes india retail store, e-commerce platform for trifood and tribes, India brands are being targeted.
TRIFED has been implementing several noteworthy programmes for the empowerment of the tribals. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
z Over the past two years, the ‘Mechanism for Marketing of Minor Forest Produce (MFP) through Minimum Support Price (MSP) & Development of Value Chain for MFP’ has impacted the tribal ecosystem in a major way.
z TRIFED has also injected Rs.
3000 crores into the tribal economy, even during such difficult times, aided by government push. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
z The Van Dhan tribal start-ups, a component of the same scheme, have emerged as a source of employment generation for tribal gatherers and forest dwellers and the home-bound tribal artisans.
¾ TRIFED is involved in following initiatives: Van Dhan Vikas Yojana: z Van Dhan Scheme, a component of ‘MSP for MFP’, was launched in 2018. z An initiative targeting livelihood generation for tribal gatherers and transforming them into entrepreneurs. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
z The idea is to set-up tribal community-owned Van Dhan Vikas Kendra Clusters (VDVKCs) in predominantly forested tribal districts.
z VDVKs are for providing skill upgradation and capacity building training to tribals and setting up of primary processing and value addition facilities.
MSP for MFP: z Mechanism for Marketing of Minor Forest Produce (MFP) Through Minimum Support Price (MSP) and Development of Value Chain for MFP provide MSP to gatherers of forest produce. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
z The scheme acts as a measure of social safety for MFP gatherers who are primarily members of ST (Scheduled Tribe).
z The scheme formed a system to ensure fair monetary returns of the gatherers for their endeavour in collection, primary processing, storage, packaging, transportation, etc.
z MFP includes all non-timber forest produce of plant origin and includes bamboo, canes, fodder, leaves, gums, waxes, dyes, resins and many forms of food including nuts, wild fruits, honey, lac, tusser etc. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Tech For Tribals: z It aims to transform 5 crore Tribal Entrepreneurs by capacity building and imparting entrepreneurship 32 CURRENT AFFAIRS JULY 2021 Note: www.drishtiIAS.com skills to tribal forest produce gatherers enrolled under the Pradhan Mantri Van Dhan Yojana (PMVDY).
z The program will ensure higher success rate of the Tribal Entrepreneurs by enabling and empowering them to run their business with marketable products with quality certifications. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |