General Studies Civil Services: Both Prelims/Mains: December 2008

Wednesday, December 31, 2008

National Investigative Agency becomes a reality

caution: This news item has been edited. The blogger apologize for deriving hasty conclusion from the media reports. The NIS head is yet to be decided. Edited on January 14, 2009.
A. K. Singh, IPS will head the NIA.

For further details use the link:

National Investigative Agency becomes a reality

Kindly read the following report also: http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/Govt_intensifies_hunt_for_NIA_chief/rssarticleshow/3974426.cms

Bangladesh Election Results

This is a continuation of the earlier post.

The election result in Bangladesh has been announced. Sheikh Hasina and her Awami League along with its allies have won the election. The BBC link has further write up on Sheikh Hasina.

The sources to be used:

BBC NEWS South Asia Hasina urges rival to accept poll

The Hindu Link: http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/000200812311401.htm

A Biographical account of Sheikh Hasina from BBC site is at http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/7803549.stm

It is important to read this account because there are interesting observation about South Asian History and politics in this article. Those with History and Political Option must read them attentively.

What is a Cyberknief?

Cyberknief is a radiortherapy machine which is used in treating cancer. It is used to target tumours with minimal damage to healthy tissues.

Further reading use the following link:

BBC NEWS Health Cyberknife boost to cancer care

Stem Cell Therapy and Stem Cell Banks

The following links can be used for preparing notes on Stem Cell Banks and Stem Cell Therapy:
http://www.themedguru.com/articles/a_new_hope_for_life_stem_cells-86119860.html

http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/008200812281660.htm

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stem_Cell

2009: International Year of Astronomy

In year 1609, Galileo made the first astronomical observation. 2009 will be the year to celebrate that scientific activity after 400.

Wikipedia has a good article at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Year_of_Astronomy

For further reference:
Starry year ahead-Pune-Cities-The Times of India

Tuesday, December 30, 2008

Private Public Participation in E-governance

The following brief report is included to develop points and links on the topic of e-governance which I believe will remain a hot topic even for next four years.
Any comment. The report is not exhaustive but it can be used to add points to a topic :"Government E-Governance Initiatives"

Link to be viewed:
Techtree.com India > News > Internet > India Headed For Better e-Governance

For further exploration read: http://www.itexaminer.com/sun-and-iit-establish-e-governance-centre.aspx

Megha Tropiques: an IRS from ISRO

ISRO Chairman G. Madhavan Nair has reported that India will launch an Indian Remote Sensing Satellite (IRS) jointly with Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales (CNES- A French Space Agency) in 2009. It will be an exclusive weather satellite.

For further notes:
India to launch exclusive satellite for climate-Global Warming-Earth-Health & Science-The Times of India

Nandini Sarma: 23228 Nandinisarma is an Asteroid

An asteroid discovered in November 2000 has been named after an Indian American girl who had participated in 2007 Intel International Science and Engineering Fair. She had won the first place for a microbiology project in that fair.

Addition information sources:

The Hindu News Update Service
http://www.indiaedunews.net/Assam/Asteroid_named_after_Assamese-origin_girl_7005/
http://www.expressbuzz.com/edition/story.aspx?Title=Asteroid+named+Nandinisarma&artid=Pt7z7vbZuH4=&SectionID=b7ziAYMenjw=&MainSectionID=b7ziAYMenjw=&SEO=The+International+Astronomical+Association,Harvard&SectionName=pWehHe7IsSU=

Painter Manjit Bawa dead

The Painter Manjit Bawa is no more. He was known for using bright colours.

Sources to be used:

The Hindu : National : Manjit Bawa dead

TOI source: http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Mumbai/Bawas_canvases_stood_out_as_a_message_of_peace/articleshow/3910628.cms as accessed on Dec 30, 2008 at 2.15 pm. The age of Manjit Bawa is given as 61. However, The Hindu gives it 67 which is correct.

Extended Role to CISF: Terror Effect

The government is going to bring ordinance to use CISF with joint ventures with private players for providing security.

CISF is one of the major paramilitary force which looks after the commercial and security sensitive installations of the government. After the ordinance the private installations like the Taj Hotel etc will also be able to use to the services of this paramilitary force. Similarly, CISF will also be deputed on foreign assignments like protecting the foreign embassies of India.

All such executive changes along with legislative measures are the result of the response of the government to the terror attack. It thus form an important topic to develop for 150 words as well topics of discussion in interview especially for those who may opt for IPS as their first option. (It is better to opt for IAS every time as the first option.)

Source to be used:

Ordinance soon to extend CISF cover to pvt industries-India-The Times of India

Monday, December 29, 2008

Bollywood's Meena Kumari, Devika Rani, Savithiri and Kannan Devi on Stamps

It is a news of general interest which may give some questions in May 2009. Keep Watch as it throws up some such Indian personalities which may appear even in Mains 2009.

Source to be used:
Postal dept to release 86 commemorative stamps in 2009-India-The Times of India

Comment: Iran Pakistan India Gas Pipeline in present scenario

The following link gives a glimpse of the scenario arising out of present situation developed between India and Pakistan and its effects on the IPI that is Iran Pakistan India Gas line.

Kindly note that it is an opinion. There is a direct criticism of the government as well as the views of the opposition. Secondly it has relevance for the time being. No one knows what situation will develop say after one year. However, even then, it gives you a perspective on the issue. Kindly use this opinion of Swaminathan S. Anklesaria Aiyar, which is popular as Swaminomics in TOI to develop a note on IPI and IndoPak relations.

Sources to be used:

IPI gas pipeline, RIP-Swaminomics-SA Aiyar-Columnists-Opinion-The Times of India

EDITORIAL COMMENT(TOI):IT Amendment Bill 2006

In the given link, there are points for note on the amendment to the IT Bill 2006. The editorial comment has not given any opinion as such and given the main features of the amendements and the present form of the act as such. Therefore, a simple reading and some note making on this topic can be useful.

The article to be used:

EDITORIAL COMMENT | Licence To Snoop-Editorial-Opinion-The Times of India

TOI Comment: Judiciary, Corruption in 2008

The year 2008 is considered as a watershed year in the history of Indian Judiciary. How is it that? The comment in the following link explores the view. It is by Dhananjay Mahapatra.

Source to be used:

2008 - a watershed year for judiciary fighting against internal corruption-India-The Times of India

Sunday, December 28, 2008

Deep Sea Block 14 Dispute with Bangladesh

The following report has a detailed account of the oil exploration dispute with Bangladesh.

Report to be used:
The Hindu News Update Service

PTI New Item is at http://www.ptinews.com/pti%5Cptisite.nsf/0/F42C8ECEBA4FC01A6525752D002A4B62?OpenDocument

International Earth Rotation and Reference Systems Services adds a second to 2008

A second is added to the leap year since 1972. This is decided by International Earth Rotation and Reference Systems Services. The time suggested by IERRSS is called UTC or the Coordinated Universal Time which has replaced the GMT time since June 30, 1972.

For additional notes kindly use the following report.

Report to be used:

Tick tock ... tick - Extra second added to 2008 Reuters

Kruttika Nadig wins national women chess championship - News - Chess - The Times of India Sports

Pravasi Bharatiya Divas-Chennai-Jan 7 and Jan 9

The Indian Diaspora will be entertained again in India and this time in Chennai for the first time. Kindly refer to the link http://indiandiaspora.nic.in/ for making further notes.

Further link that can be used:

Chennai to host Pravasi Bharatiya Divas

Samuel Huntington of "Clash of Civilizations" is no more

The Clash of Civilzations has been debated again and again as an important doctrine. In the present scenario of rising terror attacks which are invariably related to clash between the religious groups, the death of the propounder of the theory may bring in focus the debate "Clash of Civilizations".
The Reuters Report is a good small summary. Further notes can be developed through Wikipedia.

Sources to be used:
Clash of Civilizations author Samuel Huntington dies Reuters

Ninth Parliamentary Election of Bangladesh

The Bangladesh will go for Ninth Parliamentary election on December 29, 2008.

The chief contenders are Khalida Zia of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Sheikh Hasina of Awami League.

Both the main party leaders have alternated as Prime Ministers of Bangladesh and given rise to the term “Battling Begums” in International relations and politics.

Important Note: The Bangladesh Elections and party issues have remained the topic of questioning in earlier Prelims and Mains. Hence, include it in important category for 2009. Also keep watch on the election results.

Sources to be used:
PREVIEW - Bangladesh poll brings hope with a dash of doubt Reuters

Saturday, December 27, 2008

ISRO's Mars Mission 2015 and Objectives of Chandrayana I

In the following report, there is a note on the Mission Mars 2015 of ISRO, a summary of present missions to the Mars and the Objectives of the Chandrayana I. It is a good report for making notes on above mentioned issues. USE IT.

Source to be Used:
Khabrein.info

Friday, December 26, 2008

PIO OCI NRI

PIO: People of Indian Origin

OCI: Overseas Citizens of India

NRI: Non-Resident Indians.

All the above terms are related to the Indian Diaspora in Indian context. There is need to develop a note on this topic. The required and useful link is http://indiandiaspora.nic.in/

BRIC

BRIC is an acronym that refers to fast growing developing economies of BRAZIL, RUSSIA, INDIA and CHINA. It refers to an economic theory that by 2050 the combined economies of the BRICs could eclipse the combined economies of the current richest countries of the world.

The above mentioned theory was given by Jim O'Neil of the bank holding company Goldman Sachs.

For more details refer to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BRIC on Wikipedia.

Nobel-winning playwright Harold Pinter dead at 78 | Top News | Reuters

Harold Pinter, whose name is also famous for Pinter as word which has found place in dictionary, has passed away.
The Reuters Report is a good essay.

Sources to be used:

Nobel-winning playwright Harold Pinter dead at 78 Top News Reuters

Thursday, December 25, 2008

President Mohamed Nasheed (Anni) on Pirates and Terroist Attack

President Mohamed Nasheed of Maldives was on four day visits to India. He had given his views on Anti-priacy and Terrorist Attack from sea.

The abducation of ships by Somalian Pirates and attack of Terrorists from Sea Shores are two new phenomena which may become the issue of debate in Mains 2009.

The following report has in it some good points that should be kept in notes form for 2009.

Sources to be used:

The Hindu News Update Service

Wednesday, December 24, 2008

Richard Stallman Father of Free Software

India gets its own operating system

Tuesday, December 23, 2008

What is a Netbook?

A netbook is a light-weight, low-cost, energy-efficient, highly portable laptop suitable for web browsing, email and general purpose applications.

Source and further query: Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Netbook

For Additional Points: http://mybroadband.co.za/news/Hardware/6405.html

What are IMEI and EIR?

IMEI stands for International Mobile Station Equipment Identities number.
EIR stands for Equipment Identity Registry. It is part of Network Switching System in GSM system.

These two terms have become important as the security threat in India is increasing. The Chinese Mobile Phones do not have these numbers or have all zeroes. This make it difficult to identify the exact identity of the device to make a call.

Sources to be to be used: http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/002200812231606.htm
Wikipedia Article for IMEI

Wikipedia Article for NSS and EIR:http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Network_Switching_Subsystem

Four Bills of December 2008

Code of Criminal Procedure (Amendment) Bill, 2008 provides for protection to rape victims and hearing of the cases by women judges as far as practicable

A bill for setting up a South Asian University in Delhi was also passed. It will aim to provide advanced educational and research facilities for students from SAARC nations and contribute to regional peace by promoting inter-cultural understanding.

Constitution (Scheduled Tribes) (Union Territories) Order (Amendment) Bill, 2007 which relates to giving ST status to the children of the inhabitants of Lakshadweep who have been residing elsewhere in India.All residents of Lakshadweep have been given ST status in view of their socio-economic backwardness arising out of isolation from the mainland.

The Collection of Statistics Bill, 2007 will make it necessary not only on the part of industrial and commercial concerns but also individuals and households to share data with the government

Sources Used:Parliament passes four bills

Monday, December 22, 2008

Neutrino Observatory (DEC Project) will be Niligiris Tamil Nadu

The INO is one of the most prestigious scientific project in India. Neutrino is the sub atomic part which is under research of physcist and holds the key to numerous questions on the origin of the universe.
The following report discuss the issue of the locating of the INO in Tamil Nadu. For details on Neutrino kindly use Encyclopedia given below at the end of the posts and before the break time.

Additional Sources to be used:

AEC chief bats for neutrino location, says it fulfils all geographical requirements-Chennai-Cities-The Times of India

Sunday, December 21, 2008

Ten Top Scientific Breakthrough of 2008

In the report below taken from the Magazine Science, there are listed top ten scientific breakthrough of 2008. Some of them have already been made part of notes on this blog.

Source to be used:

2008 Scientific Breakthrough Genetics Cancer Study Obesity Cell Biology

W2M in GTO

W2M is a communication satellite built by ISRO on COMMERCIAL BASIS with EADS-Astrium of Europe. It is now in the orbit. It was launched on December 21, 2008 from the Guiana Space Centre at Kourou in French Guiana.

For Details, consult the following link:
ISRO-EADS Astrium built communication satellite launched-India-The Times of India

Saturday, December 20, 2008

Different Dimensions of Social Security Bill

The Social security Bill has been passed. Now it will premit to establish National Security Advisory Board (NSAB).
It is in a way a repeat posting. However, there is need to emphasis that social issues must be taken serious and adequate notes should be prepared on them.

Sources to be used:
Well begun: Social Security Bill- Editorial-Opinion-The Economic Times

Interpol Secretary General Ronald K Noble

The following note can be used for preparing notes on:

Black Notices of Interpol

Blue Notices of Interpol

Sources to be used:

Interpol chief meets Home Minister: "Interpol Secretary General Ronald K Noble"

India Year Book of Publication Bureau of India

One can access the India Year Book of Publication Bureau of India at the following link:

http://www.publicationsdivision.nic.in/others/India_2008.pdf
There is need to empahsis that it is an Indispensable book for GS preparation . Pick a chapter which interest you and then build your own notes around the contents of that chapter from the NCERT books (The NCERT books can be accessed here. I already knew about this source but some how I have not brought this information on this site. I will make a separate widget on it in the sidebar on the left. There will be more books relevant for General Studies Preparation. ).

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT:
I acknowledge that I have borrowed this information from the blog of Sanjeev Kabeer at http://www.iasplanner.blogspot.com/. I am in no way associated with the blogger. I found the information relevant and I have made a note. I am in no way responsible for the information provided on his and have no interest of any kind. User may use their volition and discretion to follow the leads there.

Once again, thanks to Sanjeev Kabeer of IAS Planner.

Chanda Kochhar

Chanda Kochhar has remained an important Indian political personality of this blog for Civil Services General Studies since 2005 when this blog was launched and that year paper was fully solved. At that time, Zia, Kiran Majumdar et al had appeared in the question paper. There and then, it was pointed out that some of the leading managers of ICICI, HSBC, and Hdfc should remain on watch list of the candidates.

This year, rather with in this week, Indra Nyoogi, Sania Nehlawat, Hon President of India Partibha Patel etc have remained in news as leading women of India.

Include in your watch list

Sources for further notes

Chanda Kochhar set to be new ICICI CEO- Corporate Announcement-News By Company-News-The Economic Times
http://www.reuters.com/article/marketsNews/idUSBOM18715020081219
http://www.indianexpress.com/news/icici-bank-board-clears-kochhar-as-new-m.../400725/

http://www.ptinews.com/pti%5Cptisite.nsf/0/55F4D3DF95BAA96165257523003E6428?OpenDocument

Profile of Kundapur Vaman Kamath

The following report consists of a brief profile of K. V. Kamath of ICICI Bank Ltd.

The Hindu News Update Service

Evening courts (K G Balakrishnan) Various Dimensions

The Chief Justice of India, K. G. Balakrishanan had proposed to start evening courts. Such courts have been started in Karnataka and in Gujarat and Delhi. The various rules of these courts can be gathered from the following report.

Report to be used:

Evening courts to be started in the counrty: CJI-India-The Times of India

Dimensions of indigenous Cryogenic Engine

The given report have some dimensions of the indigenous Cryogenic Engine.

some of the useful terms are

Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC)

Geosynchronous Launch Vehicle mission-- GSLV- D3

Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO)

Sources to be used:
ISRO conducts 'hot test' on indigenous Cryogenic Engine-India-The Times of India

Friday, December 19, 2008

The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Bill, 2008

The The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Bill, 2008 is present in the Rajya Sabha. It is a long standing demand. The compulsory elementary education is presently part of the Directive Principles. The demand for compulsory education was first proposed by Gopal Krishan Gokhle. Since then, it has remained the part of the pious motive of the country as a whole. Now, after the passage of the bill, this may become an ACT.

The TOI report below contains points on different dimensions of the Bill presented by the authors of the Bill itself.

This issue will remain an important issue of debate. It should be part of the notes for 2009 examinations.

Sources to be used:
No child should be failed until Class 8, says Bill-India-The Times of India

Thursday, December 18, 2008

Social Security Bill 2008

The Social Security Bill 2008 has been passed by both the houses.
It is an important topic. It is bound to find a place in papers in 2009. No doubt, it is also important topic for the personality test April 2009.

Sources to be used.

The Hindu : National : Bill on social security for unorganised workers passed

Priority: High Priority for Notes Preparation.

BrahMos supersonic missile has be testfired from mobile Platfrom

India has now test fired Brahmos Supersonic Missile from mobile platform at Bay of Bengal.
"The missile has a range of nearly 300 km and carries a conventional warhead of 300 kg. It can achieve speeds of up to 2.8 Mach or nearly three times the speed of sound."
It is a joint venture of DRDO and Russia. The Brahmos is a name taken from Brahmaputra and Moskva rivers.
It can be launched from submarines, ships, aircraft or land.

Source Used:
India test-fires BrahMos supersonic missile-India-The Times of India

Self Selected Ethics by Media Fraternity: Lessons from Terror Attack

The Media Fraternity through News Broadcasters Association has set set of ethics and rules to cover the terror attack on India. It is one of the major result of the Terror Attack on India. NIA is about to come as a reality. The Unlawful Activities Prevention Act is going to be amended. The security cover to VIPs (Read politicians) is being thrashed down.

This issue is going to be an important debating topic for April 2009, May 2009 as well as October 2009.

Sources to be used:

No live coverage of terror attacks-India-The Times of India
http://www.rediff.com/news/2008/dec/18mumterror-no-live-coverage-of-terror.htm

Wednesday, December 17, 2008

Points on Debate on NIA

The following report has points on the features and various dimensions of NIA.

However, while making notes, all the political references (references to the opposition and political mileage which they may get out of it) has to be omitted.

Secondly, the NIA will emerge as an ACT. It is then, there is possibility to evaluate it in right direction. On the whole, it has the potential of being an important topic for Prelims 2009 and Mains 2009. No doubt, it will be an important topic for April 2009 personality tests.

Source to be used:

Govt moves bill on NIA-India-The Times of India

Features of Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (Amended)2008

The following report has some detailed features with analysis of UAPA 2008.

Source Used:
UAPA retains most of POTA's stringent provisions-India-The Times of India

Village Courts Bill/Gram Nyayalayas Bill, 2008

The Gram Nyayalayas Bill points can be found in the following report.

Source Used:
Gram Nyayalayas bill introduced in RS-India-The Times of India

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Criminal and Terrorists Use of Gun: A Definition

MJ Akbar, a reputed journalist of India, has raised a poinst against the BBC reporting methods. While doing so, he has defined the terms criminal, terrorist and use of gun by a criminal and terrorist. The wordings which has been taken by me as definition have appeared in an online news item of rediff news at the link http://www.rediff.com/news/2008/dec/14mumterror-mj-akbar-slams-bbc-for-biased-coverage-of-mumbai-terror-attack.htm.

I quote the following words of M J Akbar: "There is a clear distinction between gunmen and terrorists. Criminals use guns, and can be called gunmen; criminals use guns in the service of crime. Terrorists use guns and worse in the random killing of innocents in pursuit of a political agenda or personal agenda. The killers who came to Taj and Oberoi and the Chatrapati Shivaji railway station and a home where Jewish people lived, did not come to steal art, or railway property or money. They came with the declared purpose of murder and mayhem."

The lines have been taken out of context but I believe that it serve the purpose of the candidates for Civil Services at different level and stages of selection.

Stamp on Maneckshaw on anniversary of 1971 Victory

The 1971 victory over East Pakistan is being celebrated with a stamp on First Field Marshal of India.

Source used:

Vijay Diwas: Maneckshaw stamp released-India-The Times of India

National Investigating Agency Bill 2008

In its fight with Terror attacks and to settle the issue of Terror Attack and India, the government has come up with National Investigating Agency Bill and a bill to amend The Unlawfull Activities (Prevention) Bill.

The following report should also be read with the similar report in The Tribune by Ajay Banerjee. It virtually makes a comment on various dimensions of the Bill and the contours of the Act in future.

Sources to be used:

Govt tables Bill to set up National Investigating Agency-India-The Times of India
http://www.tribuneindia.com/2008/20081216/main1.htm

Additional Links Added Later:
http://www.rediff.com/news/2008/dec/16mumterror-features-of-the-proposed-national-investigation-agency.htm

further suggestion: The links given up should be included in the essay Terror Attack and India.

Monday, December 15, 2008

Creamy Layer Issue of OBC: Centre and the Judiciary

It is now a controversial issue. However, even then there is need to keep a tab on this issue. The following two links are put on record for future reference.

Source used:

SC issues notice to Centre over OBC creamy layer-India-The Times of India
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/SC_notice_to_Centre_on_hiking_income_limit_for_creamy_layer/rssarticleshow/3841516.cms

The President of India gets 1.8 millions per annum

Salary of the President of India= 1.5 lakh per month
Salary of the Vice President of India= 1.25 lakh per month
Salary of the Governor of a state= 1.10 lakh per month.

Source used

Parliament approves salary, pension hike for President, Vice-President, governors-India-The Times of India

Nano Cities of India: Bangaloru, Kolkata and Mohali

The following press note is about the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST) Bangalore. There are some added points.

Source Used:

Bangalore is now all set to go the nano way-Bangalore-Cities-The Times of India

Sunday, December 14, 2008

Terror Attack and India

Here some links are collected which can be used to write an Essay
TERROR ATTACK AND INDIA
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Cities/Sandeep_was_a_born_fighter_Father/articleshow/3833636.cms
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/No_evidence_of_Jamaat_hand_in_Mumbai_attack_Pakistan/articleshow/3835814.cms
Chief Justice of India's view on Media Coverage of Terror Attack
http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/000200812131811.htm
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/New_terror_law_soon_says_law_minister/articleshow/3833360.cms
http://www.ndtv.com/convergence/ndtv/story.aspx?id=NEWEN20080076383&ch=12/14/2008%202:39:00%20PM
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/RPF_railway_personnel_honoured_for_thwarting_terrorists_at_CST/articleshow/3833349.cms
http://www.expressbuzz.com/edition/story.aspx?Title=Terror++trauma&artid=exSYM4Ai9EM=&SectionID=f4OberbKin4=&MainSectionID=f4OberbKin4=&SEO=Mumbai+attack,+Taj,+Oberoi&SectionName=cxWvYpmNp4fBHAeKn3LcnQ==

http://www.rediff.com/news/2008/dec/14mumterror-mj-akbar-slams-bbc-for-biased-coverage-of-mumbai-terror-attack.htm (About Biased Reporting by Foreign Media-BBC)
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/Terror_tourism_a_new_thrill_for_backpackers/rssarticleshow/3837739.cms

President Nursultan Nazarbayev will be Chief Guest on Republic Day 2009

President Nursultan Nazarbayev of Kazakhstan will be the Chief Guest at the Republic Day of India in January 2009. It is the 60th Republic Day of India. The first Republic Day was in 1950.

India and Kazakhstan are interested in Civil Nuclear Deal. Kazakhstan will be the fourth such country after US, France and Russia with whom she will have Civil Nuclear cooperation.

Kazakshstan is the country with the second largest reserve of Uranium.

Additional Information: French President Nicholas Sarkozy was the chief quest in 2008 Republic Day. It was the 59th Republic Day.

President Vladimir Putin of Russian Federation was chief quest in 2007 on 58th Republic Day of India.

Sources to be used:
India likely to sign nuclear pact with Kazakhstan-India-The Times of India

A Good Note on 3G

The Candidates of 2008 Mains were expecting 3G to appear in the paper but it did not come.
Here in the given report virtually a note is given on 3G as any candidate should prepare his notes for Mains examination. Even if it has to be appear in Prelims 2009, then there are all the features which a candidate should know so that he may find the right answer to the question.
I believe many of you will approve my observation.
Just copy it and make you own notes with your own pen and notebook.
Write, REad, Write, REad and Revise.

Sources to be used:

What can you do with 3G- Telecom-News-Indiatimes - Infotech
http://www.telecomtiger.com/3G_fullstory.aspx?passfrom=3G&storyid=4921&section=S208

Shinzo Nakanishi celebrates 25th B'day of M800

December 14, 1983 was the date when the first M800 rolled out of its Gurgaon Plant out of the lot of 40000 cars to be produced in that year.

The following two reports contain good point on the four wheeler revolution in India which started 25 years back.

Sources to be used:

25 winters ago, a street car named M-800 was born- Automobiles-Auto-News By Industry-News-The Economic Times
http://www.domain-b.com/companies/companies_m/Maruti/20081213_maruti_800.html (The following source has more details.)

Ksenya Sukhinova: Miss World 2008 is Russia

The world personality is from glamour world.
The reports mentioned below have the list of the five Indian Miss World. This time, Parvathy from India was first runners up.

Sukhinova has become the 58th Miss World. The previous Miss World, Zhang Zi Lin was from China.
The Hindu Report is more descriptive.

The sources used:

The Hindu : Front Page : Miss Russia on top of the world
http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/News/PoliticsNation/Indias_Parvathy_is_first_runner-up_at_Miss_World_contest/articleshow/3834253.cms

World Personality; Indian Personality

Saturday, December 13, 2008

Operation Black Tornado impact on Media Role

The operation Black Tornado of 26/11 has raised numerous issues of National Level. The Role of Media has also been included in it. The following reports take up some of the issues as discussed in Indian Parliament.

The Views of the Chief Justice of India Honurable K.G. Balakrishnan can be accessed and made part of the notes from the link http://www.hindu.com/2008/12/14/stories/2008121459891000.htm

Reports to be Used:

Terror coverage: Parliamentary panel wants regulations for media-India-The Times of India
http://www.hindu.com/2008/12/13/stories/2008121359871000.htm

The Hindu : National : ARC suggests lower age limit for civil services aspirants

The ARC (Administrative Reform Commission -Second) has submitted its report. It has suggested some measures at the time of recruitment as well during the tenure of the service of the civil servants.

Resources to be followed for the further notes:

The Hindu : National : ARC suggests lower age limit for civil services aspirants
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/Slack_senior_babus_should_be_axed_Panel/articleshow/3829773.cms
http://www.tribuneindia.com/2008/20081213/main6.htm

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/Education/Civil_services_exam_to_be_revamped/articleshow/3832505.cms

Friday, December 12, 2008

Encyclopedia of Indian Culture,India's Culture,Art and Architecture,Cultures of India,Culture and Heritage of India,Customs and Culture of India,Culture of Indian People,Indian Culture and Heritage,Cultures of India

The following site is a private site. It can be very useful for making notes on Indian Culture like the musicians of India, literature of India, Musical Instruments, The temple Architecture (Kindly substantiate with other notes also.) and similar other topics. The best books are still the books published by NBT. However, this site can be used. I had used this site to locate answer to one of the question of 2006 prelims about which I had not idea. Later, when one of the user pointed out a mistake, my answer was authenticated by other magazines as well as a teacher of music.

Nanofood and Agriculture

The topic is only included for the novelty of the topic and inter related field. Remember Agriculture and technological changes have been very dice topics that have to be prepared for the GS Prelims as well GS Mains. The commission says that they expect that general awareness of an educated man in the field of science. This demands that one should have eye for such changes which may become trends in near future.

Though report does not include much on the topic yet the issue has been included as an important technology topic.

Source used
domain-b.com : Indian Farmers are five years away from Nanotechnology revolution

The Issue of Statehood to Anadaman

There is not much in the report. However, it brings the topic of the statehood of Andaman which is definitely hanging on for a long time. Such an issue may appear in the Mains. Secondly, this month Yojgna issue is exclusively on the North East States, which invariably refers to the policies towards the tribals.

Source used:

The Telegraph - Calcutta (Kolkata) Nation State tag eludes Andamans

Indo-Pak Relations: Points for Essay

The following report is selected merely because there are some points useful for writing on the topic Indo-Pak relation. The controversial points are not asked in written examination. However, they may be discreetly asked. However, such questions may be asked in Personality Test. Therein, the candidate is expected to give a responsible and balance view. There is no place for zingoism there. There is view expressed by Shashi Tharoor. No way, any blogger is promoted here.

Source Used:

Can India "do a Lebanon'' in Pakistan, asks Pak blogger -Mumbai-Cities-The Times of India

Thursday, December 11, 2008

Climate change summit of UNFCCC at Copenhagen

Climate change summit may make no headway-India-The Times of India

Wednesday, December 10, 2008

Bird flu - A Song or a Virus

Bird Flu or Avian Influenza has been reported to have spread in Assam again. Its latest strain is called H5N1.

For Wikipedia article (use it with caution): Click Here.

Birdflu is also a song by a Tamil song writer M.I.A which is part of her Kala Album in 2007. Similarly there was another song by that name during Spanish Flu H1N1 during 1918-1920. (Source: Wikipedia (use with caution) for detail Click here. )

Source Used:
Bird flu spreads to new areas in Assam Top News Reuters

20 Indian Institue of Information Technology under PPP

The government has got prepared the Draft Project Report to establish 20 new IIITs (Indian Institute of Information Technology) under PPP (Public Private Partnership). The DPR is prepared by NASSCOM (National Association of Softwares and Service Companies).

Source Used
Decks cleared for setting up 20 new IIITs-Education-The Times of India

Lal Thanhawla: Chief Minister for the Third Time

Lal Thanhawla will be the Chief Minister of Mizoram for the third time. Similarly, Sheila Dixit will be entering her third inning as the CM of Delhi.

Use the Hindu link for further notes on Lal Thanhawla.

Source Used:
The Hindu News Update Service

Books for General Studies for 2009

In the November Issue 2008 of Civil Services Chronicle (CSC), there is a long article titled Wnna be an IAS Topper, success sutra, step-by-step. Many of its section are sincerely written. They are practical advices. One of the section has dealt exclusively with General Studies preparation. Their main argument is that there should be an integrated approach for General Studies. I believe that they suggest that preparation for General Studies should fulfill the requirement of Prelims as well as Mains. Secondly, they have stressed upon the need of keeping the target of getting 350+ in the General Studies. Thirdly, they are fair in telling that there can not be any fixed game plan for preparing the General Studies paper because anything below sun can be asked and even beyond that also. However, even then, they have suggested some good points. They are as follows.

It is very difficult to fix a syllabus for General Studies. The commission itself has not given a fixed syllabus. Therefore, the best method is to watch the last years papers analytically. Then, it is suggested that one should learn the area of his or her interest and then develop the reading around that field of knowledge. A good approach is to read fundamental basis of major subjects with the help of NCERT books. For Current affairs the best method is suggested as follows.
1. India Year Book of Publication Division. Pick chapters and then develop or gather extra material around them.
2. Adopt one or two newspaper for daily reading. It is universally accepted that The Hindu and The Times of India are the two best newspapers. One can watch on his own that they cover more issues of national interest.
3. Books published by NBT and Publication Bureau on Indian history and Culture. I am regular reader of Yojana. Each month, there is one selective theme. In November, it was the child problem and in December, it is North East states.

Then, The CSC has further suggested other books. I have not consulted them, therefore, I do not feel confident in suggesting them here. In case of foreign news, I believe apart from Frontline, the internet is a better option.

After taking up Current Affairs as one major subject of General Studies, the CSC magazine has taken Indian Polity. I accept that to whichever field you belong, you have to read DD Basu and P N Baskshi. You must understand that there are 100 marks questions in General Studies Mains and on an average there are 15 questions in Prelims. There is no other way out. In addition to that a leisure reading of NCERT books of IX, X, XI and XII is equally essential. Notes preparation is better way then to adopt some guide book.

In case of Indian Economy, there is no answer to Dutt and Sundharam or Mishra and Puri. I may add some more at a later stage but books by NCERT for class XI and XII are must. I will suggest that one should adopt Business Today or Business Standard also along with one Competition Magazine. One can develop liking for capital market in order to understand their contents but beware you may not give your self away to share market. You must remember that you are preparing for civil services and for full 18 months you have to save money only for that. The investments can be carried on with some detachments but they can be postponed for one year. It does not matter much.

Now take up the case of History. Modern History by B.L. Grover is a good approach. I believe, for that any history, which helps you to develop understanding of political history from 1707/1757 to 1947, is must. It may be a simple text book of graduation level and even that can be good. There is a book by same title by K. L. Khurana or by L. Prasad. The main idea is to develop the political history understanding before taking up the book by A. R. Desai. I think that, that will be a good way to tackle the subject. I am a history teacher and saying all this with some understanding. Finally, it goes without repetition, you have to read NCERT books from eighth to twelfth. It is must. You may not read Bipin Chandra, or other books which are being discussed, but, you have to go through them.

Now Geography is a fascinating field. The trend is not presently in its favour. In 1990s, it was Geography and Animal husbandry, which had attracted the attention. However, you have to read about it. Here, I will go with CSC suggestions.
Principles of Geography (NCERT)
Geography of India.
Land and the People NCERT. Even the books suggested for ICSE boards schools are quite helpful. I remember reading a book of ninth class for ICSE school which was publisher of Delhi, the contents were perfect material for present day trends.
Let me suggest an approach here. Make topics of NCERT books from VI to XII as the topics of preparation. Get material from the books and substantiate with the help of Wikipedia and CIA Facts books website.

Science and Technology: It is very difficult to suggest one set for it. However, as CSC has remarked, the main thrust is on basic Human anatomy, hygiene, circulatory system, human diseases, Nutrition and plus Agricultural sciences. Question of Physics, Chemistry, Technology are there but if you are not a student from science background, then it is better to adopt the established Refreshers. The CSC has given its list but I doubt, apart from reading NCERT books, one can read the whole list without the help of a person who has some understanding of science. You should have liking for the field of science. Then you can make the list of the contents of NCERT books and continue to prepare the notes. The questions are really typical. They may ask you the Light temperature of a fluorescent tube and other year may ask you about the resistance of the human body to the flow of the current. The candidates were expecting 3D technology but the commission remained satisfied with asking only about IPTV. You may prepare for CFL light buld, but it may ask about newer mode of lightening. You may prepare for 4D telecommunication, it may ask about WiMax. It is better to remain fixed with the fundamentals of the physics and chemistry than to prepare the list of the books.

I hope that those who have approached my blog with this query, and visited to one of my older list, may find the above write up useful.

Swraj Paul NRI is Deputy Speaker in the House of Lords

It is a history of a sort as Swraj Paul, the founder of TNC Caparo and member of Apeejay Group of Jalandhar Punjab has been appointed as the Deputy Speaker of the House of Lords in Britain.

Source Used:
Swraj Paul is Deputy Speaker in the House of Lords

Examination Notice No. 04/2009-CSP

Civil Services Preliminary Examinaion notification is issued on December 6, 2008.

" All applications must reach the "Secretary, Union Public Service Commission, Dholpur House, Shahjahan Road, New Delhi - 110069" either by hand or by Post/Speed Post or by Courier, on or before the 5th January, 2009."

For the first hand information kindly visit http://upsc.gov.in/. Enter Examination link. Then Enter Notification Current link. This path is valid till January 5, 2009. After that, it is generally moved to the Archival Section and remains there till the next notification.

Monday, December 08, 2008

Amendement to IT 2006 Act

There is a good material to develop the points on the IT crimes and the amendments proposed in the IT Act 2006 in the report mentioned below.

This heading can be selected for writing an essay as well as 150 words write up on Science and Technology and General Awareness on Current Issues.

High priority Topic

Sources Used

Government is proposing amendments in IT Act Top News

Additional Sources: http://www.deepikaglobal.com/ENG5_sub.asp?newscode=29417&catcode=ENG5&subcatcode=

http://mangalorean.com/news.php?newstype=local&newsid=103793

Useful Resources