{"id":43467,"date":"2024-07-18T09:46:21","date_gmt":"2024-07-18T09:46:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/?p=43467"},"modified":"2024-07-18T09:46:23","modified_gmt":"2024-07-18T09:46:23","slug":"upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/","title":{"rendered":"UPSC Daily Current Affairs &#8211; 18th July 2024 &#8211; Edukemy"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Today&#8217;s daily current affairs briefing for UPSC aspirants explores the latest developments relevant to the upcoming civil services examination. Our focus today includes a critical analysis of recent policy changes, international affairs, and national developments, all of which play a pivotal role in shaping India&#8217;s socio-political and economic landscape. Stay informed and stay ahead in your UPSC preparations with our daily current affairs updates, as we provide you with concise, well-researched insights to help you connect the dots between contemporary events and the broader canvas of the civil services syllabus.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/upsc-current-affairs?utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Banner&amp;utm_campaign=Current+Affairs\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1280\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/19.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-42406\" srcset=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/19.png 1280w, https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/19-1170x274.png 1170w, https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/19-585x137.png 585w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_73 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-69d6e78f19aaf\" class=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-label\"><p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-cssicon\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\"  id=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-69d6e78f19aaf\"  \/><nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Centralised_Examinations_Have_Not_Aced_the_Test\" title=\"Centralised Examinations Have Not Aced the Test&nbsp;\">Centralised Examinations Have Not Aced the Test&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Why_in_the_news\" title=\"Why in the news?&nbsp;\">Why in the news?&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#The_Vision_of_National_Testing_Agency_NTA\" title=\"The Vision of National Testing Agency (NTA):&nbsp;\">The Vision of National Testing Agency (NTA):&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Initial_Challenges_and_Shortcomings_Encountered_by_NTA\" title=\"Initial Challenges and Shortcomings Encountered by NTA:&nbsp;\">Initial Challenges and Shortcomings Encountered by NTA:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Trust_Deficit_Created_by_the_NEET-UG_Fiasco_and_Broader_Implications\" title=\"Trust Deficit Created by the NEET-UG Fiasco and Broader Implications:&nbsp;\">Trust Deficit Created by the NEET-UG Fiasco and Broader Implications:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Ways_Ahead_to_Restore_Trust_in_the_Examination_System\" title=\"Ways Ahead to Restore Trust in the Examination System:\u00a0\">Ways Ahead to Restore Trust in the Examination System:\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Steps_Taken_by_the_Government\" title=\"Steps Taken by the Government:&nbsp;\">Steps Taken by the Government:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Conclusion\" title=\"Conclusion&nbsp;\">Conclusion&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#UPSC_Civil_Services_Examination_PYQ\" title=\"UPSC Civil Services Examination PYQ&nbsp;\">UPSC Civil Services Examination PYQ&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Mains\" title=\"Mains:&nbsp;&nbsp;\">Mains:&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#EC_releases_technical_instructions_to_check_EVM_VVPAT_burnt_memory\" title=\"EC releases technical instructions to check EVM, VVPAT burnt memory&nbsp;\">EC releases technical instructions to check EVM, VVPAT burnt memory&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Why_in_the_news-2\" title=\"Why in the news?&nbsp;\">Why in the news?&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Burnt_Memory_of_EVMs_and_VVPAT_Units\" title=\"Burnt Memory of EVMs and VVPAT Units:&nbsp;\">Burnt Memory of EVMs and VVPAT Units:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Background\" title=\"Background:&nbsp;\">Background:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Key_Highlights_of_the_SOP\" title=\"Key Highlights of the SOP:&nbsp;\">Key Highlights of the SOP:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#When_Will_the_Verification_Process_Start\" title=\"When Will the Verification Process Start?&nbsp;\">When Will the Verification Process Start?&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Criticism_of_the_Technical_SOP\" title=\"Criticism of the Technical SOP:&nbsp;\">Criticism of the Technical SOP:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#UPSC_Civil_Services_Examination_Previous_Year_Questions_PYQ\" title=\"UPSC Civil Services Examination Previous Year Questions (PYQ)&nbsp;\">UPSC Civil Services Examination Previous Year Questions (PYQ)&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Prelims\" title=\"Prelims:&nbsp;\">Prelims:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Mains-2\" title=\"Mains:&nbsp;\">Mains:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Govts_U-Win_portal_to_redraw_immunisation_map\" title=\"Govt\u2019s U-Win portal to redraw immunisation map&nbsp;\">Govt\u2019s U-Win portal to redraw immunisation map&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Why_in_the_news-3\" title=\"Why in the news?&nbsp;\">Why in the news?&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#What_is_the_Universal_Immunization_Programme_UIP\" title=\"What is the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP)?&nbsp;\">What is the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP)?&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#About_the_U-Win\" title=\"About the U-Win:&nbsp;\">About the U-Win:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#How_Does_U-Win_Work\" title=\"How Does U-Win Work?&nbsp;\">How Does U-Win Work?&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Features\" title=\"Features:&nbsp;\">Features:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Benefits\" title=\"Benefits:&nbsp;\">Benefits:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Status_of_Childhood_Immunization_in_India\" title=\"Status of Childhood Immunization in India:&nbsp;\">Status of Childhood Immunization in India:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-29\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#UPSC_Civil_Services_Examination_Previous_Year_Question\" title=\"UPSC Civil Services Examination Previous Year Question:&nbsp;\">UPSC Civil Services Examination Previous Year Question:&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-30\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Prelims-2\" title=\"Prelims:&nbsp;\">Prelims:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-31\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#PM_SHRI_PM_Schools_for_Rising_India_Scheme\" title=\"PM SHRI (PM Schools for Rising India) Scheme&nbsp;\">PM SHRI (PM Schools for Rising India) Scheme&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-32\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Why_in_the_news-4\" title=\"Why in the news?&nbsp;\">Why in the news?&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-33\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#What_is_PM-SHRI\" title=\"What is PM-SHRI?&nbsp;\">What is PM-SHRI?&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-34\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Key_Objectives_and_Key_Features_of_the_PM_SHRI_Scheme\" title=\"Key Objectives and Key Features of the PM SHRI Scheme:&nbsp;\">Key Objectives and Key Features of the PM SHRI Scheme:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-35\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Alignment_with_NEP_2020\" title=\"Alignment with NEP 2020:&nbsp;\">Alignment with NEP 2020:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-36\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Conclusion-2\" title=\"Conclusion&nbsp;\">Conclusion&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-37\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#UPSC_Civil_Services_Examination_Previous_Year_Questions_PYQs\" title=\"UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQs)&nbsp;\">UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQs)&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-38\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Mains-3\" title=\"Mains&nbsp;\">Mains&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-39\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Indias_G20_Task_Force_on_Digital_Public_Infrastructure\" title=\"India\u2019s G20 Task Force on Digital Public Infrastructure&nbsp;\">India\u2019s G20 Task Force on Digital Public Infrastructure&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-40\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Why_in_the_news-5\" title=\"Why in the news?&nbsp;\">Why in the news?&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-41\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#G20s_Recognition\" title=\"G20\u2019s Recognition:&nbsp;\">G20\u2019s Recognition:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-42\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#About_Digital_Public_Infrastructure_DPI\" title=\"About Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI):&nbsp;\">About Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI):&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-43\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Indias_Role_in_Promoting_Digital_Public_Infrastructure_DPI\" title=\"India&#8217;s Role in Promoting Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI):&nbsp;\">India&#8217;s Role in Promoting Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI):&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-44\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Recommendations_from_Indias_G20_Task_Force\" title=\"Recommendations from India\u2019s G20 Task Force:&nbsp;\">Recommendations from India\u2019s G20 Task Force:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-45\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Conclusion-3\" title=\"Conclusion&nbsp;\">Conclusion&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-46\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#UPSC_Civil_Services_Examination_Previous_Year_Questions_PYQs-2\" title=\"UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQs)\u00a0\">UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQs)\u00a0<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-47\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Prelims-3\" title=\"Prelims&nbsp;\">Prelims&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-48\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Chandipura_Virus_Infection\" title=\"Chandipura Virus Infection&nbsp;\">Chandipura Virus Infection&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-49\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Why_in_the_news-6\" title=\"Why in the news?\u00a0\">Why in the news?\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-50\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#About_Chandipura_Virus_Infection\" title=\"About Chandipura Virus Infection:&nbsp;\">About Chandipura Virus Infection:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-51\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Symptoms\" title=\"Symptoms:&nbsp;\">Symptoms:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-52\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Treatment\" title=\"Treatment:&nbsp;\">Treatment:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-53\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Which_are_the_worst_affected_regions_in_India\" title=\"Which are the worst affected regions in India?&nbsp;\">Which are the worst affected regions in India?&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-54\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#UPSC_Civil_Services_Examination_PYQ-2\" title=\"UPSC Civil Services Examination PYQ\u00a0\u00a0\">UPSC Civil Services Examination PYQ\u00a0\u00a0<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-55\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Prelims-4\" title=\"Prelims&nbsp;\">Prelims&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-56\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#ASMITA_Project\" title=\"ASMITA Project&nbsp;\">ASMITA Project&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-57\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Why_in_the_news-7\" title=\"Why in the news?\u00a0\">Why in the news?\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-58\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#About_ASMITA_Project\" title=\"About ASMITA Project:\u00a0\">About ASMITA Project:\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-59\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Other_Initiatives_Launched\" title=\"Other Initiatives Launched:&nbsp;\">Other Initiatives Launched:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-60\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Jerdons_Courser\" title=\"Jerdon\u2019s Courser&nbsp;\">Jerdon\u2019s Courser&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-61\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Why_in_the_news-8\" title=\"Why in the news?\u00a0\">Why in the news?\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-62\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#About_Jerdons_Courser\" title=\"About Jerdon\u2019s Courser:&nbsp;\">About Jerdon\u2019s Courser:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-63\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Conservation_Status\" title=\"Conservation Status:&nbsp;\">Conservation Status:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-64\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Halwa_Ceremony\" title=\"Halwa Ceremony&nbsp;\">Halwa Ceremony&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-65\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Why_in_the_news-9\" title=\"Why in the news?\u00a0\">Why in the news?\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-66\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#About_Halwa_Ceremony\" title=\"About Halwa Ceremony:&nbsp;\">About Halwa Ceremony:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-67\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Key_Facts_about_the_Union_Budget_of_India\" title=\"Key Facts about the Union Budget of India:&nbsp;\">Key Facts about the Union Budget of India:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-68\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions_FAQs\" title=\"Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)\">Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-69\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Q_What_are_daily_current_affairs\" title=\"Q: What are daily current affairs?\">Q: What are daily current affairs?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-70\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Q_Why_is_it_important_to_stay_updated_with_daily_current_affairs\" title=\"Q: Why is it important to stay updated with daily current affairs?\">Q: Why is it important to stay updated with daily current affairs?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-71\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Q_Where_can_I_access_daily_current_affairs_information\" title=\"Q: Where can I access daily current affairs information?\">Q: Where can I access daily current affairs information?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-72\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Q_How_can_I_effectively_incorporate_daily_current_affairs_into_my_routine\" title=\"Q: How can I effectively incorporate daily current affairs into my routine?\">Q: How can I effectively incorporate daily current affairs into my routine?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-73\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Q_What_are_some_tips_for_critical_analysis_of_daily_current_affairs\" title=\"Q: What are some tips for critical analysis of daily current affairs?\">Q: What are some tips for critical analysis of daily current affairs?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-74\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#To_get_free_counselingsupport_on_UPSC_preparation_from_expert_mentors_please_call_9773890604\" title=\"To get free counseling\/support on UPSC preparation from expert mentors please call 9773890604\">To get free counseling\/support on UPSC preparation from expert mentors please call 9773890604<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-75\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/upsc-daily-current-affairs-18th-july-2024-edukemy\/#Visit_our_YouTube_Channel_%E2%80%93_Here\" title=\"Visit our YouTube Channel \u2013 Here\">Visit our YouTube Channel \u2013 Here<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Centralised_Examinations_Have_Not_Aced_the_Test\"><\/span><strong>Centralised Examinations Have Not Aced the Test<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\"><p><strong>Tags: GS-2, Polity &amp; Governance- Govt. Policies &amp; incentive &#8211; Education Policy- NTA<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_in_the_news\"><\/span><strong>Why in the news?<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>In 2017, the Government of India established the National Testing Agency (NTA) to standardise and streamline the process of conducting entrance examinations for professional courses.\u00a0\u00a0<\/li><li>Despite this promising start, the NTA has faced numerous challenges and criticisms, particularly in its handling of the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET-UG) and other key exams.\u00a0\u00a0<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"465\" height=\"204\" data-src=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/image-37.png\" alt=\"National Testing Agency\" class=\"wp-image-43471 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 465px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 465\/204;\" \/><figcaption><strong>National Testing Agency<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Therefore, it is important to critically examine the NTA&#8217;s shortcomings, the resulting trust deficit, and potential solutions, including decentralisation and reforms in the schooling system.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Vision_of_National_Testing_Agency_NTA\"><\/span><strong>The Vision of National Testing Agency (NTA):<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>Electronic Mode of Examination<\/strong>\u00a0<ul><li>The NTA aimed to transition entrance exams from traditional pen-and-paper methods to electronic formats.\u00a0<\/li><li>This shift intended to reduce logistical complexities and vulnerabilities associated with manual processes, such as paper leaks and distribution errors.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><strong>Specialised Expertise<\/strong>\u00a0<ul><li>The NTA was to employ specialists in the science of testing.\u00a0<\/li><li>These experts were expected to develop robust question banks, create reliable evaluation frameworks, and ensure the validity and reliability of the examination process.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><strong>Outsourced Operations<\/strong>\u00a0<ul><li>To maintain a lean organisational structure, much of the NTA\u2019s operational work was outsourced.\u00a0<\/li><li>This included tasks such as question paper setting, exam conduction, and evaluation, which were managed by external specialists and agencies.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Initial_Challenges_and_Shortcomings_Encountered_by_NTA\"><\/span><strong>Initial Challenges and Shortcomings Encountered by NTA:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>Pen-and-Paper Mode Persistence<\/strong>\u00a0<ul><li>Contrary to the goal of conducting electronic examinations, many exams, including the NEET-UG, continued to be administered in the traditional pen-and-paper mode.\u00a0<\/li><li>This persistence introduced significant risks and opportunities for malpractice at various stages\u2014from paper setting and printing to distribution and final delivery at examination centres.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><strong>Leadership and Competence Issues<\/strong>\u00a0<ul><li>The NTA&#8217;s leadership structure raised concerns about its capability to fulfil its envisioned role.\u00a0<\/li><li>The agency was headed by a chairman and a chief executive officer, typically an Indian Administrative Service officer. Neither of these possess the specialised competence required to build and manage a testing institution of this scale and complexity.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><strong>NEET-UG Fiasco<\/strong>\u00a0<ul><li>The conduct of NEET-UG in particular exposed critical flaws in the NTA\u2019s implementation.\u00a0<\/li><li>Widespread leakage of question papers, arbitrary awarding of grace marks, and selective re-examinations for a few students undermined the credibility of the entire process. These issues highlighted the agency\u2019s inability to manage high-stakes examinations effectively.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><strong>Operational Vulnerabilities<\/strong>\u00a0<ul><li>The reliance on outsourced operations introduced vulnerabilities in the examination process.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><ul><li>The coordination and oversight required to manage multiple external entities proved to be a significant challenge, leading to instances of malpractice and inefficiencies.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><strong>Trust Deficit<\/strong>\u00a0<ul><li>The culmination of these challenges resulted in a severe trust deficit among students, parents, and other stakeholders.\u00a0<\/li><li>The inability to conduct fair and transparent examinations eroded confidence in the NTA\u2019s capabilities and intentions, prompting widespread calls for reform and restructuring.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Trust_Deficit_Created_by_the_NEET-UG_Fiasco_and_Broader_Implications\"><\/span><strong>Trust Deficit Created by the NEET-UG Fiasco and Broader Implications:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>Question Paper Leaks and Arbitrary Grace Marks<\/strong>\u00a0<ul><li><strong>Integrity Undermined<\/strong>: The widespread leakage of question papers severely undermined the integrity of the examination.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Unfair Advantages<\/strong>: This not only gave unfair advantages to some students but also called into question the NTA\u2019s ability to secure sensitive materials and conduct a fair exam.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Inconsistent Grace Marks<\/strong>: The way grace marks were awarded appeared arbitrary and inconsistent.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Confusion and Dissatisfaction<\/strong>: This led to confusion and dissatisfaction among students and parents, who felt that the grading system was neither transparent nor fair.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><strong>Selective Re-examinations and Tampering with Results<\/strong>\u00a0<ul><li><strong>Selective Re-examinations<\/strong>: Conducting re-examinations for only a handful of students, rather than a comprehensive re-exam for all affected candidates, further eroded trust.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Unfair Approach<\/strong>: This selective approach was seen as unfair and insufficient to address the widespread malpractice.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Tampered Results<\/strong>: Instead of opting for a straightforward re-examination to rectify the issues, the NTA&#8217;s tampering with results raised serious concerns about the credibility of the entire examination process.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Deepened Distrust<\/strong>: This approach deepened the distrust among stakeholders.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><strong>Legal Interventions and Loss of Confidence<\/strong>\u00a0<ul><li><strong>Significant Loss of Confidence<\/strong>: The repeated failures and mismanagement have led to a significant loss of confidence in the NTA.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Questioned Ability<\/strong>: Students, parents, and educational institutions now question the agency&#8217;s ability to conduct fair and transparent examinations, which are crucial for career decisions and academic progression.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Supreme Court Intervention<\/strong>: The Supreme Court of India had to step in to address the numerous petitions filed by aggrieved students and parents.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Severity of Trust Deficit<\/strong>: Such legal interventions underscore the severity of the trust deficit and the failure of the NTA to manage the examination process effectively on its own.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><strong>Counselling Delays and Economic and Social Impact<\/strong>\u00a0<ul><li><strong>Counselling Process<\/strong>: The government&#8217;s decision to proceed with the counselling process despite unresolved issues has added to the anxiety and uncertainty among students.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Impact on Admissions<\/strong>: Since rank is critical for securing admissions to government institutions that offer quality education at subsidised rates, any tampering with the results can have a profound impact on students\u2019 futures.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Financial Burden<\/strong>: Students who fail to secure admission in government institutions due to mismanagement are often forced to opt for private institutions that charge exorbitant fees.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Socio-economic Disparities<\/strong>: This financial burden can be overwhelming for many families, further exacerbating socio-economic disparities.<\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><strong>Erosion of Meritocracy<\/strong>\u00a0<ul><li><strong>Meritocracy Undermined<\/strong>: The primary objective of standardising entrance examinations was to promote meritocracy by ensuring that only the most deserving students gain admission to professional courses.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Perception of Rigged System<\/strong>: However, the current situation has led to a perception that the system is rigged, and that merit alone is not sufficient to succeed.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Ways_Ahead_to_Restore_Trust_in_the_Examination_System\"><\/span><strong>Ways Ahead to Restore Trust in the Examination System:<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>Need for a Decentralised Testing Mechanism<\/strong>\u00a0<ul><li><strong>Frequent Cheating and Leakages<\/strong>: The frequent reports of cheating and leakages in national-level examinations suggest that a decentralised testing mechanism might be more effective.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>State-level Exams<\/strong>: Decentralisation would allow states to conduct their own entrance exams based on a standard template set by the central government.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Mitigate Risks<\/strong>: This approach could mitigate the risks associated with centralised testing and ensure that standards are maintained across various states.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Enhanced Fairness<\/strong>: Incorporating domain experts, testing specialists, and IT security measures would further enhance the fairness and integrity of the examinations.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><strong>Revamping the Schooling System<\/strong>\u00a0<ul><li><strong>Decline of Traditional Schooling<\/strong>: The emergence of national-level entrance examinations has inadvertently led to the decline of the traditional schooling system, with the rise of coaching centres overshadowing the importance of school education.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Integration of School-leaving Marks<\/strong>: To address this, integrating a percentage of school-leaving marks into the entrance examination score could restore the value of school education.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Balanced Evaluation<\/strong>: This approach, previously implemented for the Indian Institutes of Technology entrance exams, emphasises the importance of academic competency, hard work, and values built at the school level.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Steps_Taken_by_the_Government\"><\/span><strong>Steps Taken by the Government:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>Institutional Initiatives:<\/strong>\u00a0<ul><li>A reform committee led by Dr. K. Radhakrishnan has been appointed to recommend enhancements to the NTA&#8217;s exam processes.\u00a0<\/li><li>Pradeep Singh Kharola has been appointed as the new chief of NTA.\u00a0<\/li><li>The education ministry has requested a detailed report from Bihar Police\u2019s Economic Offences Unit regarding alleged irregularities in the NEET (UG) 2024 exam held in Patna.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><strong>Strengthening Security and Processes:<\/strong>\u00a0<ul><li>The government has recognized the need to enhance the NTA\u2019s security infrastructure, adopt advanced technologies, and improve the overall efficiency and transparency of its examination processes.\u00a0<\/li><li>In response to the controversy over grace marks, the NTA retracted the grace marks given to 1,563 students and offered them the option to take a re-test.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span><strong>Conclusion<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The NTA was established to standardise entrance examinations in India, but its execution has faced significant challenges, resulting in a trust deficit. Reforms, including decentralising the testing mechanism and rejuvenating the schooling system, are necessary to address these issues.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"UPSC_Civil_Services_Examination_PYQ\"><\/span><strong>UPSC Civil Services Examination PYQ<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Mains\"><\/span><strong>Mains:&nbsp;<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q:1 National Education Policy 2020 conforms with the Sustainable Development Goal-4 (2030). It intends to restructure and reorient the education system in India. Critically examine the statement. (2020)&nbsp;<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q:2 The quality of higher education in India requires major improvement to make it internationally competitive. Do you think that the entry of foreign educational institutions would help improve the quality of technical and higher education in the country? Discuss. (2015)&nbsp;<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>Source: <\/em><\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/opinion\/lead\/centralised-examinations-have-not-aced-the-test\/article68411427.ece\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong><em>TH<\/em><\/strong><\/a><em><\/em>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"EC_releases_technical_instructions_to_check_EVM_VVPAT_burnt_memory\"><\/span><strong>EC releases technical instructions to check EVM, VVPAT burnt memory<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\"><p><strong>Tags: GS-2, Polity &amp; Governance- Election commission- Constitutional Bodies\u2013 Transparency &amp; Accountability<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_in_the_news-2\"><\/span><strong>Why in the news?<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The Election Commission of India (ECI) has released a technical Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for verifying burnt memory or microcontrollers in Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verified Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) devices.\u00a0\u00a0<\/li><li>This follows a Supreme Court verdict and aims to ensure the integrity and transparency of elections by accurately verifying votes through electronic and paper means.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"261\" height=\"232\" data-src=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/image-41.png\" alt=\"EVM\" class=\"wp-image-43475 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 261px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 261\/232;\" \/><figcaption>EVM<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Burnt_Memory_of_EVMs_and_VVPAT_Units\"><\/span><strong>Burnt Memory of EVMs and VVPAT Units:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The burnt memory in Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verified Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs) refers to their non-volatile memory where data is stored permanently, even when the devices are powered off.\u00a0\u00a0<\/li><li>This memory holds critical information such as:\u00a0<ul><li><strong>EVMs:<\/strong> Records of votes cast during the election, the machine&#8217;s configuration, and other operational details.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><ul><li><strong>VVPATs:<\/strong> Printed records of votes cast by voters, serving as a verifiable paper trail for electronic votes.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"232\" height=\"235\" data-src=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/image-40.png\" alt=\"VVPAT\" class=\"wp-image-43474 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 232px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 232\/235;\" \/><figcaption>VVPAT<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Background\"><\/span><strong>Background:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>SC Verdict:<\/strong>\u00a0\u00a0<ul><li>On April 26, 2024, the Supreme Court upheld the use of EVMs and VVPATs in Lok Sabha elections, rejecting calls for a return to paper ballots\u00a0\u00a0<\/li><li>Mandating verification of burnt memories for up to 5% of machines per Assembly or Lok Sabha constituency segment.\u00a0<\/li><li>Verification of burnt memories is conducted post-election by engineers from EVM manufacturers.\u00a0<\/li><li>Allowing candidates to identify specific machines for verification by polling station or serial number and to be present during the process.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><strong>Requests for Verification:<\/strong>\u00a0\u00a0<ul><li>Must be made within seven days of result declaration, with costs borne by candidates and refunded if tampering is detected.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><strong>Administrative and Technical SOP:<\/strong>\u00a0<ul><li>An administrative SOP was released on June 1, outlining organisational tasks to ensure consistency and compliance.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><ul><li>A technical SOP specifies detailed procedures and operations, providing step-by-step instructions to maintain quality and safety standards during verification.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><strong>Applications for Verification:<\/strong>\u00a0<ul><li>Eight Lok Sabha candidates and three State Assembly candidates from Odisha and Andhra Pradesh applied for verification of burnt memory, highlighting early interest and compliance with the new procedures.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Key_Highlights_of_the_SOP\"><\/span><strong>Key Highlights of the SOP:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>Verification Process:<\/strong>\u00a0<ul><li>The SOP provides a detailed procedure for verifying the integrity of microcontrollers in EVMs and VVPATs.\u00a0<\/li><li>The Election Commission of India (ECI) utilises various technical methods to ensure the accuracy of firmware burned into microcontrollers, typically in research or secure manufacturing settings.\u00a0<\/li><li>Public verification involves using multiple random test vectors as inputs and assessing their expected outcomes.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><strong>Mock Poll of Up to 1,400 Votes per Machine:<\/strong>\u00a0<ul><li>A mock poll involving up to 1,400 votes per machine is conducted in the presence of candidates or their representatives.\u00a0<\/li><li>On polling day, a mock poll with a minimum of 50 votes per machine is conducted in the presence of candidates&#8217; polling agents, ensuring self-diagnosis and mutual authentication of the EVM-VVPAT system.\u00a0<\/li><li>Consistency between the results of machines and VVPAT slips confirms the integrity of burnt memory or microcontrollers, indicating no tampering.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><strong>Powers Assigned to Candidates:<\/strong>\u00a0<ul><li>Candidates have the authority to select the polling stations, EVMs, Ballot Units (BUs), Control Units (CUs), and VVPATs for verification.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><ul><li>Trained engineers from EVM manufacturers such as Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) and Electronics Corporation of India Ltd (ECIL) conduct the verification process.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_Will_the_Verification_Process_Start\"><\/span><strong>When Will the Verification Process Start?<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Verification of EVMs and VVPATs will commence once the High Courts confirm that no Election Petitions have been filed for the relevant constituencies.\u00a0\u00a0<\/li><li>Election Petitions can be filed within 45 days of the election results, which were announced on June 4, making July 19 the deadline.\u00a0\u00a0<\/li><li>As of now, 11 applications covering 118 polling stations or sets of EVMs and VVPATs have been received.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Criticism_of_the_Technical_SOP\"><\/span><strong>Criticism of the Technical SOP:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>Mismatch Handling:<\/strong> Critics have pointed out that the SOP does not address what would happen if there were a discrepancy between the counts of EVMs and VVPATs during verification.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Progress on Mock Polls:<\/strong> Experts argue that the SOP does not innovate beyond the existing practice of conducting mock polls before elections, which are already standard procedure.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Judgement vs. SOP:<\/strong> The Supreme Court&#8217;s judgement emphasised the need to check and verify burnt memory or microcontrollers, but this requirement is not explicitly mentioned in the SOP, raising concerns among stakeholders.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"UPSC_Civil_Services_Examination_Previous_Year_Questions_PYQ\"><\/span><strong>UPSC Civil Services Examination Previous Year Questions (PYQ)<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Prelims\"><\/span><strong>Prelims:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q.1 Consider the following statements: (2017)<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The Election Commission of India is a five-member body.\u00a0<\/li><li>The Union Ministry of Home Affairs decides the election schedule for the conduct of both general elections and bye-elections.\u00a0<\/li><li>Election Commission resolves the disputes relating to splits\/mergers of recognised political parties.\u00a0<\/li><\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Which of the statements given above is\/are correct?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>1 and 2 only\u00a0<\/li><li>2 only\u00a0<\/li><li>2 and 3 only\u00a0<\/li><li>3 only\u00a0<\/li><\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Ans: (d)<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Mains-2\"><\/span><strong>Mains:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q:1 To enhance the quality of democracy in India the Election Commission of India has proposed electoral reforms in 2016. What are the suggested reforms and how far are they significant to make democracy successful? (2017)<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>Source: <\/em><\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/indianexpress.com\/article\/india\/ec-technical-instructions-evm-checking-petitioner-no-progress-established-mock-poll-process-9456726\/#:~:text=Acting%20on%20a%20Supreme%20Court,then%20there%20is%20no%20tampering\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong><em>IE<\/em><\/strong><\/a>\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Govts_U-Win_portal_to_redraw_immunisation_map\"><\/span><strong>Govt\u2019s U-Win portal to redraw immunisation map<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\"><p><strong>Tags: GS Paper &#8211; 2, Governance- Health- Government Policies &amp; Interventions<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_in_the_news-3\"><\/span><strong>Why in the news?<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The Indian government is set to launch U-Win, a digital platform on August 15, aimed at transforming maternal and child healthcare across the country.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"432\" height=\"170\" data-src=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/image-38.png\" alt=\"U-WIN\" class=\"wp-image-43472 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 432px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 432\/170;\" \/><figcaption>U-WIN<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>By digitising vaccination records, U-Win will replace the current manual system used by ASHA and other healthcare workers, marking a significant shift in how primary healthcare is delivered.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_the_Universal_Immunization_Programme_UIP\"><\/span><strong>What is the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP)?<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>About:<\/strong> UIP is India&#8217;s extensive public health program targeting around 2.67 crore newborns and 2.9 crore pregnant women annually.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Impact:<\/strong> It is one of the most cost-effective interventions in public health, contributing significantly to the reduction of vaccine-preventable under-5 mortality rates.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Vaccines Covered:<\/strong>\u00a0\u00a0<ul><li>UIP provides free immunisation against 12 vaccine-preventable diseases nationally, including Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus, Polio, Measles, Rubella, severe Childhood Tuberculosis, Hepatitis B, and Meningitis &amp; Pneumonia caused by Haemophilus Influenza type B.\u00a0\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><ul><li>It also covers Rotavirus diarrhoea, Pneumococcal Pneumonia, and Japanese Encephalitis sub-nationally.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><strong>Key Milestones of UIP:<\/strong>\u00a0<ul><li>UIP&#8217;s major achievements include the eradication of polio in 2014 and the elimination of maternal and neonatal tetanus in 2015.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"About_the_U-Win\"><\/span><strong>About the U-Win:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>About:<\/strong> U-Win replicates the successful Co-WIN system used for managing COVID-19 vaccinations.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Current Status:<\/strong> It is currently in pilot mode across all states and Union Territories except West Bengal.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Function:<\/strong> U-Win will digitally record all vaccination events for pregnant women and children aged 0-5 years, ensuring timely administration of routine immunizations under the UIP.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Does_U-Win_Work\"><\/span><strong>How Does U-Win Work?<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"425\" height=\"208\" data-src=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/image-39.png\" alt=\"U-Win Work\" class=\"wp-image-43473 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 425px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 425\/208;\" \/><figcaption><strong>U-Win Work<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>Registration and Recording:<\/strong>\u00a0<ul><li>Children aged 0-5 years are registered on U-Win, with vaccines administered at birth also recorded.\u00a0<\/li><li>The platform generates schedules for vaccine doses for children.\u00a0<\/li><li>It eliminates the need for physical vaccination booklets by sending SMS alerts to parents and guardians.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><strong>Health Data Management:<\/strong>\u00a0<ul><li>U-Win records birth weight and notes any physical deformities, aiding in other government health programs.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Features\"><\/span><strong>Features:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>Digital Certificates:<\/strong> Generates QR-based e-vaccination certificates similar to COVID vaccination certificates, accessible with a single click.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Real-time Updates:<\/strong> Updates vaccination status and delivery outcomes in real-time.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Citizen Engagement:<\/strong> Allows self-registration via web portal or mobile app, selection of vaccination centres, and appointment scheduling.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>SMS Alerts:<\/strong> Sends automated SMS alerts for registration confirmation, administered doses, and upcoming dose reminders.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Health Record Integration:<\/strong> Facilitates Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) IDs for comprehensive health record maintenance.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Frontline Support:<\/strong> Assists frontline workers in digitally recording vaccination events for accurate and easy record management.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Benefits\"><\/span><strong>Benefits:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>Reducing Zero-dose Children:<\/strong> Real-time registration and digital vaccination records help reduce the number of &#8220;zero-dose&#8221; children.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Accessibility for Migrants:<\/strong> Benefits migrant workers by allowing vaccinations at any centre nationwide without carrying physical vaccination cards.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>2030 Goals:<\/strong> U-Win aims to halve the number of zero-dose children by 2030.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Comprehensive Records:<\/strong> Includes details of children, pregnant women, health centres, and community health workers due for vaccinations.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Status_of_Childhood_Immunization_in_India\"><\/span><strong>Status of Childhood Immunization in India:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>Report:<\/strong>\u00a0<ul><li>According to the latest WHO and UNICEF estimates of national immunisation coverage (WUENIC), childhood immunisation in India experienced a slight decline in 2023 compared to 2022.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><strong>DPT Vaccine Coverage:<\/strong>\u00a0\u00a0<ul><li>There was a decrease of two percentage points in the coverage of the diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus (DPT) vaccine, dropping from 95% in 2022 to 93% in 2023.\u00a0\u00a0<\/li><li>Globally, the average coverage for DPT in 2023 was 89%.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><strong>Zero-dose Children:<\/strong>\u00a0\u00a0<ul><li>The coverage of the DPT vaccine serves as an indicator for zero-dose children, who have not received any routine immunisation.\u00a0\u00a0<\/li><li>In 2023, India reported 1.6 million zero-dose children, up from 1.1 million in 2022, but lower than the 2.73 million reported in 2021.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><strong>Under-vaccination Proxy:<\/strong>\u00a0\u00a0<ul><li>Coverage of the third dose of the DPT vaccine, used as a proxy for under-vaccination, was 91% in 2023.\u00a0\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><ul><li>This represents a two-percentage point decrease from the previous year but remains higher than the global average of 84%.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><strong>Absolute Numbers:<\/strong>\u00a0\u00a0<ul><li>In 2023, approximately 0.4 million children in India remained under-vaccinated, a slight decrease from 2.11 million in 2019.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"UPSC_Civil_Services_Examination_Previous_Year_Question\"><\/span><strong>UPSC Civil Services Examination Previous Year Question:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Prelims-2\"><\/span><strong>Prelims:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q:1 \u2018Mission Indradhanush\u2019 launched by the Government of India pertains to (2016)<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>immunisation of children and pregnant women\u00a0<\/li><li>construction of smart cities across the country\u00a0<\/li><li>India\u2019s own search for the Earth-like planets in outer space\u00a0<\/li><li>New Educational Policy\u00a0<\/li><\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Ans: A<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/indianexpress.com\/article\/health-wellness\/vaccine-child-govt-u-win-portal-immunisation-map-9459759\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>IE<\/strong><\/a>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"PM_SHRI_PM_Schools_for_Rising_India_Scheme\"><\/span><strong>PM SHRI (PM Schools for Rising India) Scheme<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\"><p><strong>Tags: GS &#8211; 2, Governance- Government Policies &amp; Interventions\u2013 Education \u2013 Skill Development<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_in_the_news-4\"><\/span><strong>Why in the news?<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The PM SHRI (PM Schools for Rising India) Scheme is a centrally sponsored initiative by the Government of India aimed at establishing more than 14,500 schools across the country.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"295\" height=\"262\" data-src=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/image-42.png\" alt=\"PM-SHRI\" class=\"wp-image-43476 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 295px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 295\/262;\" \/><figcaption><strong>PM-SHRI<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>It aims to provide an inclusive and nurturing environment for all students, promoting their well-being and ensuring access to quality learning experiences and infrastructure.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_PM-SHRI\"><\/span><strong>What is PM-SHRI?<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>About: Full Name:<\/strong> PM Schools for Rising India Scheme.<strong> Ministry: <\/strong>Ministry of Education. <strong>Launch Date:<\/strong> September 5, 2022\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Objective<\/strong>: Establish over 14,500 PM SHRI Schools to provide inclusive education and foster a secure and enriching learning environment for students.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>School Involved: <\/strong>These schools, overseen jointly by the Central Government, State\/UT Governments, local bodies, Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS), and Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti (NVS).\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Maximum Schools<\/strong>: UP has the most PM SHRI schools (1,865) followed by Maharashtra (910) and Andhra Pradesh (900).\u00a0\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Three outlier states:<\/strong> Delhi, Punjab and West Bengal.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Alignment<\/strong>: Aligned with the National Education Policy 2020, promoting equity, inclusivity, and pluralism.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Implementation<\/strong>: Schools selected through Challenge Mode competition for support to become exemplar institutions.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Funding<\/strong>: Total project cost of Rs 27,360 crore over five years, with a central share of Rs 18,128 crore.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Duration<\/strong>: Operational from 2022-23 to 2026-27, with subsequent maintenance by States\/UTs to sustain achieved standards.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Key_Objectives_and_Key_Features_of_the_PM_SHRI_Scheme\"><\/span><strong>Key Objectives and Key Features of the PM SHRI Scheme:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>Exemplar and Mentorship Role<\/strong>:\u00a0<ul><li>PM SHRI schools will serve as exemplary institutions, showcasing best practices in education.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><ul><li>They will also mentor other schools in their vicinity to raise overall educational standards.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><strong>Holistic Development<\/strong>:\u00a0<ul><li>Focus on qualitative teaching, learning, and cognitive development.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><ul><li>Aim to cultivate well-rounded individuals with essential 21st-century skills.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><strong>Innovative Pedagogy<\/strong>:\u00a0<ul><li>Pedagogical approaches include experiential, holistic, play\/toy-based (especially in foundational years), inquiry-driven, and learner-centred methods.\u00a0<\/li><li>Emphasis on achieving proficiency in learning outcomes for all students.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><strong>Competency-Based Assessment<\/strong>:\u00a0<ul><li>Assessments will evaluate conceptual understanding and application of knowledge in real-life contexts.\u00a0<\/li><li>Shift towards competency-based assessments over rote learning.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><strong>Modern Infrastructure<\/strong>:\u00a0<ul><li>Equipped with modern facilities such as labs, smart classrooms, libraries, sports equipment, and art rooms.\u00a0<\/li><li>Ensures inclusivity and accessibility for all students.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><strong>Green Schools<\/strong>:\u00a0<ul><li>Development as green schools promoting initiatives like water conservation, waste recycling, and energy-efficient infrastructure.\u00a0<\/li><li>Integration of an organic lifestyle into the curriculum.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><strong>Teacher Training and Capacity Building<\/strong>:\u00a0<ul><li>Teachers trained in innovative pedagogical methods focusing on experiential, holistic, and learner-centred approaches.\u00a0<\/li><li>Continuous professional development to enhance teaching skills and methodologies.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><strong>Equitable and Inclusive Education<\/strong>:\u00a0<ul><li>Provides high-quality education in an equitable, inclusive, and joyful environment.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><ul><li>Addresses diverse backgrounds, multilingual needs, and varying academic abilities of students, engaging them actively in the learning process\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Alignment_with_NEP_2020\"><\/span><strong>Alignment with NEP 2020:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The PM-SHRI scheme is closely aligned with the vision of the National Education Policy 2020, which emphasises:\u00a0<ul><li>Experiential learning.\u00a0<\/li><li>Competency-based education.\u00a0<\/li><li>Inclusive and equitable education.\u00a0<\/li><li>Integration of technology in education.\u00a0<\/li><li>Focus on holistic development and 21st-century skills.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion-2\"><\/span><strong>Conclusion<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The PM-SHRI scheme is pivotal in transforming India&#8217;s education landscape, promoting comprehensive quality education. It will enhance educational policies, practices, and implementation strategies, with insights from these schools guiding nationwide improvements.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"UPSC_Civil_Services_Examination_Previous_Year_Questions_PYQs\"><\/span><strong>UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQs)<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Mains-3\"><\/span><strong>Mains<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q:1 National Education Policy 2020 is in conformity with the Sustainable Development Goal-4 (2030). It intends to restructure and reorient the education system in India. Critically examine the statement. (2020)<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/indianexpress.com\/article\/explained\/what-is-pm-shri-schools-funding-scheme-samagra-shiksha-9458151\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>IE<\/strong><\/a>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Indias_G20_Task_Force_on_Digital_Public_Infrastructure\"><\/span><strong>India\u2019s G20 Task Force on Digital Public Infrastructure<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\"><p><strong>Tags: GS-3, Economy- Growth &amp; development- Digital Public Infrastructure<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_in_the_news-5\"><\/span><strong>Why in the news?<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The final &#8216;Report of India\u2019s G20 Task Force on Digital Public Infrastructure&#8217; recently emphasized that India should identify a body to promote Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) in the Global South.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"311\" height=\"196\" data-src=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/image-43.png\" alt=\"G20\u2019s Recognition\" class=\"wp-image-43477 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 311px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 311\/196;\" \/><figcaption><strong>G20\u2019s Recognition<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"G20s_Recognition\"><\/span><strong>G20\u2019s Recognition:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The Prime Minister of India announced a $25-million investment to develop DPI, emphasizing its importance for inclusive growth.\u00a0<\/li><li>G20 established the Digital Public Infrastructure Repository featuring over 50 DPIs from 16 countries to facilitate global knowledge sharing and adoption, especially in the Global South.\u00a0<\/li><li>At the G20 Summit, India showcased its digital capabilities, including Aadhaar, UPI, and DigiLocker, which empower citizens, enhance financial inclusion, and drive economic transformation.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"About_Digital_Public_Infrastructure_DPI\"><\/span><strong>About Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI):<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>DPI refers to foundational digital systems and services enabling connectivity, data exchange, and digital transactions across sectors.\u00a0<\/li><li>It includes both hardware (networks, servers, devices) and software (platforms, protocols, applications).\u00a0<\/li><li>DPI supports online payments, identity verification, e-governance, and healthcare services.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Indias_Role_in_Promoting_Digital_Public_Infrastructure_DPI\"><\/span><strong>India&#8217;s Role in Promoting Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI):<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>India leads in DPI with initiatives like Aadhaar (world\u2019s largest biometric identity system), UPI (Unified Payments Interface), and DigiLocker (cloud-based document storage).\u00a0<\/li><li>Programs such as NOFN, Digital India, National Broadband Mission, and National Data Centre Policy underpin a robust digital infrastructure.\u00a0<\/li><li>The JAM trinity (Jan Dhan-Aadhaar-Mobile) has created millions of new bank accounts and streamlined direct benefit transfers, reducing leakages and ensuring targeted welfare delivery.\u00a0<\/li><li>Initiatives like Ayushman Bharat Mission and Unified Logistics Interface Platform are transforming healthcare and logistics sectors.\u00a0<\/li><li>The National e-Governance Plan (NeGP) provides a one-stop platform for services from birth certificates to land records, streamlining processes and enhancing transparency.\u00a0<\/li><li>Over 1.38 billion digital identities have been registered in India, demonstrating the scale and impact of these systems.\u00a0<\/li><li>Challenges include lack of infrastructure access, digital divide, affordability, language barriers, disabilities, privacy and security concerns, and geographical disparities.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Recommendations_from_Indias_G20_Task_Force\"><\/span><strong>Recommendations from India\u2019s G20 Task Force:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The task force recommends India take on a greater role in promoting DPI globally.\u00a0<\/li><li>India should identify an existing body (preferably with global reach) to harness the DPI ecosystem for policy formulation, strategy implementation, and technical expertise.\u00a0<\/li><li>Integrating AI with DPIs can amplify their capabilities, but ethical use and data privacy must be maintained.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"388\" height=\"217\" data-src=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/image-44.png\" alt=\"UPI\" class=\"wp-image-43478 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 388px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 388\/217;\" \/><figcaption>UPI<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion-3\"><\/span><strong>Conclusion<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>DPI is not just about technology; it\u2019s about empowering people, improving governance, and fostering economic growth. As a leader in this space, India must collaborate globally to ensure DPI benefits everyone, especially in the Global South.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"UPSC_Civil_Services_Examination_Previous_Year_Questions_PYQs-2\"><\/span><strong>UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQs)<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Prelims-3\"><\/span><strong>Prelims<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q:1 In India, the term \u201cPublic Key Infrastructure\u201d is used in the context of (2020)<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Digital security infrastructure\u00a0<\/li><li>Food security infrastructure\u00a0<\/li><li>Health care and education infrastructure\u00a0<\/li><li>Telecommunication and transportation infrastructure\u00a0<\/li><\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Ans: (a)<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/indianexpress.com\/article\/business\/india-should-identify-body-to-promote-digital-public-infra-in-global-south-g20-task-force-9455379\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Source: IE<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chandipura_Virus_Infection\"><\/span><strong>Chandipura Virus Infection<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\"><p><strong>Tags: GS-3, Science &amp; Technology- Basic Biology- Virus<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_in_the_news-6\"><\/span><strong>Why in the news?<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Recently, the Gujarat government reported that six children have died from suspected Chandipura virus (CHPV) infection in the state since July 10.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"350\" height=\"197\" data-src=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/image-59.png\" alt=\"Chandipura Virus Infection\" class=\"wp-image-43497 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 350px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 350\/197;\" \/><figcaption><strong>Chandipura Virus Infection<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"About_Chandipura_Virus_Infection\"><\/span><strong>About Chandipura Virus Infection:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>CHPV is a virus belonging to the Rhabdoviridae family, which also includes the lyssavirus responsible for rabies.\u00a0<\/li><li>Several sandfly species, such as Phlebotomine sandflies and Phlebotomus papatasi, along with mosquito species like Aedes aegypti (also a dengue vector), are known vectors of CHPV.\u00a0<\/li><li>The virus resides in the salivary glands of these insects and can be transmitted to humans or other vertebrates, including domestic animals, through bites.\u00a0<\/li><li>The infection caused by CHPV can reach the central nervous system, leading to encephalitis (inflammation of the brain&#8217;s active tissues).\u00a0<\/li><li>Disease progression can be rapid, with patients reporting high fever in the morning and experiencing kidney or liver complications by the evening.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Symptoms\"><\/span><strong>Symptoms:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>CHPV infection initially presents with flu-like symptoms, such as acute onset of fever, body ache, and headache.\u00a0<\/li><li>It can then progress to altered sensorium, seizures, and encephalitis.\u00a0<\/li><li>Other reported symptoms include respiratory distress, bleeding tendencies, and anaemia.\u00a0<\/li><li>The infection often progresses rapidly after encephalitis, potentially leading to mortality within 24-48 hours of hospitalisation.\u00a0<\/li><li>This infection has largely affected children under 15 years of age.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Treatment\"><\/span><strong>Treatment:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Currently, there is no specific antiretroviral therapy or vaccine for CHPV, so treatment focuses on symptomatic management.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Which_are_the_worst_affected_regions_in_India\"><\/span><strong>Which are the worst affected regions in India?<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>Maharashtra<\/strong>: CHPV was first isolated during investigations into a dengue and chikungunya outbreak in Maharashtra in 1965. The state has witnessed significant outbreaks over the years.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Gujarat<\/strong>: During the outbreak in 2004, Gujarat reported a particularly high case fatality rate (CFR) of around 78%. This underscores the severity of the virus in the state during that period.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Andhra Pradesh<\/strong>: In 2003, Andhra Pradesh also experienced a notable outbreak, with a CFR estimated at around 55%.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"UPSC_Civil_Services_Examination_PYQ-2\"><\/span><strong>UPSC Civil Services Examination PYQ\u00a0<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Prelims-4\"><\/span><strong>Prelims<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q:1 Which of the following statements is not correct?(2019)<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Hepatitis B virus is transmitted much like HIV.\u00a0<\/li><li>Hepatitis B, unlike Hepatitis C, does not have a vaccine.\u00a0<\/li><li>Globally, the number of people infected with Hepatitis B and C viruses are several times more than those infected with HIV.\u00a0<\/li><li>Some of those infected with Hepatitis B and C viruses do not show the symptoms for many years.\u00a0<\/li><\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Ans: (b)<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/indianexpress.com\/article\/explained\/explained-health\/chandipura-virus-infection-chpv-9457349\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>IE<\/strong><\/a><strong><\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"ASMITA_Project\"><\/span><strong>ASMITA Project<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\"><p><strong>Tags: GS-2, Polity &amp; Governance- Govt. policies &amp; Incentive &#8211; Education Policy\u00a0<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_in_the_news-7\"><\/span><strong>Why in the news?<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Recently, the Ministry of Education and the University Grants Commission (UGC) recently introduced the ASMITA Project to enhance the availability of educational resources in Indian languages.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"281\" height=\"257\" data-src=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/image-58.png\" alt=\"ASMITA Project\" class=\"wp-image-43496 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 281px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 281\/257;\" \/><figcaption><strong>ASMITA Project<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"About_ASMITA_Project\"><\/span><strong>About ASMITA Project:<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>ASMITA (Augmenting Study Materials in Indian Languages through Translation and Academic Writing) aims to develop 22,000 books in Indian languages over the next five years.\u00a0<\/li><li>It is a collaborative effort between the UGC and the Bharatiya Bhasha Samiti, a high-powered committee under the Ministry of Education.\u00a0<\/li><li>The primary objective is to promote and integrate Indian languages more deeply into the education system, enriching the learning experience and making it more inclusive.\u00a0<\/li><li>This project is part of a broader strategy to enhance the accessibility and quality of educational materials across various Indian languages.\u00a0<\/li><li>Thirteen nodal universities have been identified to lead the project, along with member universities from various regions.\u00a0<\/li><li>The UGC has created a standard operating procedure (SOP) for the book-writing process in each assigned language.\u00a0<\/li><li>The SOP includes identifying nodal officers and authors, allocating title, subject, and programme, writing and editing, submission of the manuscript, review and plagiarism check, finalisation, designing, proofreading, and e-publication.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Other_Initiatives_Launched\"><\/span><strong>Other Initiatives Launched:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The Ministry of Education also launched the &#8220;Bahubhasha Shabdakosh,&#8221; a single-point reference for all the words in all Indian languages and their meanings.\u00a0<\/li><li>This initiative will be developed by the Central Institute of Indian Languages (CIIL) in collaboration with the Bharatiya Bhasha Samiti.\u00a0<\/li><li>The Shabdakosh will help in using Bharatiya words, phrases, and sentences for various new-age domains like IT, industry, research, and education.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/education\/ugc-launches-project-to-develop-22000-books-in-indian-languages\/article68412814.ece\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>TH<\/strong><\/a>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Jerdons_Courser\"><\/span><strong>Jerdon\u2019s Courser<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\"><p><strong>Tags: GS-3, Ecology &amp; Environment- Biodiversity- Species\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_in_the_news-8\"><\/span><strong>Why in the news?<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Recently, Jerdon\u2019s Courser, a critically endangered species, has not been visually spotted in over a decade.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"162\" data-src=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/image-57.png\" alt=\"Jerdon\u2019s Courser\" class=\"wp-image-43495 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/image-57.png 600w, https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/image-57-585x158.png 585w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 600px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 600\/162;\" \/><figcaption><strong>Jerdon\u2019s Courser<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"About_Jerdons_Courser\"><\/span><strong>About Jerdon\u2019s Courser:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>Scientific Name:<\/strong> Rhinoptilus bitorquatus\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Habitat:<\/strong> It inhabits open patches within scrub forests.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Distribution:<\/strong> Found only in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Features:<\/strong>\u00a0<ul><li>It is a nocturnal cursorial (adapted for walking and running) bird endemic to the Eastern Ghats of India.\u00a0<\/li><li>It was considered extinct from the beginning of the 20th century until its rediscovery in 1986.\u00a0<\/li><li>It is a delicate lapwing-like bird with a large eye and a short, bicolored bill.\u00a0<\/li><li>Its upper plumage is grey-brown, chin and throat are whitish, fore-neck is rufous, and separated from its brown breast by a white band.\u00a0<\/li><li>A second white band runs across the lower portion of its breast (hence it was earlier called a double-banded courser).\u00a0<\/li><li>The belly is whitish, while its tail is black-and-white (visible in flight). The legs are pale yellow.\u00a0<\/li><li>The call is a short series of two-noted whistles \u201ctuick-tuoo.\u201d\u00a0<\/li><li>They are insectivorous, hunting invertebrates by sight.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conservation_Status\"><\/span><strong>Conservation Status:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>IUCN Red List:<\/strong> Critically Endangered<strong>.<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/timesofindia.indiatimes.com\/city\/visakhapatnam\/critically-endangered-jerdons-courser-not-seen-in-a-decade\/articleshow\/111739906.cms#:~:text=However%2C%20this%20elusive%20bird%20has,the%20Sri%20Lankamalleswara%20wildlife%20sanctuary\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>TOI<\/strong><\/a>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Halwa_Ceremony\"><\/span><strong>Halwa Ceremony<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\"><p><strong>Tags: GS-2, Polity &amp; Governance- Union budget<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_in_the_news-9\"><\/span><strong>Why in the news?<\/strong>\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Recently, the Union Finance Minister participated in a traditional \u2018halwa\u2019 ceremony, marking the final stage for preparation of Union Budget 2024-25 to be unveiled on July 23 in Lok Sabha.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"387\" height=\"218\" data-src=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/image-56.png\" alt=\"Halwa Ceremony\" class=\"wp-image-43494 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 387px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 387\/218;\" \/><figcaption><strong>Halwa Ceremony<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"About_Halwa_Ceremony\"><\/span><strong>About Halwa Ceremony:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>Ritual:<\/strong> The ceremony involves the preparation and serving of the traditional dessert \u2018halwa\u2019 to officials and staff members of the finance ministry involved in the Budget preparation.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Significance:<\/strong> It serves as a \u2018send-off\u2019 for finance ministry officials and staff who are involved in the preparation of the Union government\u2019s annual financial statement.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Lock-in Period:<\/strong> Following the ceremony, these officials and staff enter a \u2018lock-in\u2019 period, staying in the basement of North Block, cut off from the outside world to maintain the secrecy around the final budget document.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Historical Context:<\/strong> The stringent measures date back to a leak in 1950, when a portion of the Union Budget was leaked while being printed at Rashtrapati Bhawan. As a result, the then Finance Minister, John Matthai, resigned.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Key_Facts_about_the_Union_Budget_of_India\"><\/span><strong>Key Facts about the Union Budget of India:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>Annual Financial Statement:<\/strong> The Union Budget of India, referred to as the Annual Financial Statement under Article 112 of the Constitution of India, is the annual budget of the Republic of India.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Terminology:<\/strong> Although it is known as the Annual Financial Statement of the Government, the term &#8220;budget&#8221; is not mentioned in the Constitution.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/indianexpress.com\/article\/business\/economy\/fm-halwa-ceremony-final-stage-budget-preparation-9457457\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>IE<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions_FAQs\"><\/span>Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"has-text-align-left wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q_What_are_daily_current_affairs\"><\/span>Q: What are daily current affairs? <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A: Daily current affairs refer to the most recent and relevant events, developments, and news stories that are happening around the world on a day-to-day basis. These can encompass a wide range of topics, including politics, economics, science, technology, sports, and more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q_Why_is_it_important_to_stay_updated_with_daily_current_affairs\"><\/span>Q: Why is it important to stay updated with daily current affairs? <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A: Staying updated with daily current affairs is crucial because it helps individuals make informed decisions in their personal and professional lives. It enables people to understand the world around them, stay aware of significant events, and engage in informed discussions about important issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q_Where_can_I_access_daily_current_affairs_information\"><\/span>Q: Where can I access daily current affairs information? <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A: There are various sources for daily current affairs, including newspapers, news websites, television news broadcasts, radio programs, and dedicated apps or newsletters. Social media platforms are also widely used to share and access current affairs information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q_How_can_I_effectively_incorporate_daily_current_affairs_into_my_routine\"><\/span>Q: How can I effectively incorporate daily current affairs into my routine? <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A: To incorporate daily current affairs into your routine, consider setting aside specific times each day to read or watch news updates. You can also subscribe to newsletters or follow news apps to receive curated content. Engaging in discussions with peers or participating in online forums can further enhance your understanding of current events.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q_What_are_some_tips_for_critical_analysis_of_daily_current_affairs\"><\/span>Q: What are some tips for critical analysis of daily current affairs? <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A: When analyzing daily current affairs, it&#8217;s essential to cross-reference information from multiple sources to ensure accuracy. Additionally, consider the source&#8217;s credibility and bias, if any. Develop the ability to identify the main points and implications of news stories, and critically evaluate the significance and impact of the events reported.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/upsc\/upsc-essay?utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Banner&amp;utm_campaign=Essay\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" data-src=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/UPSC-Essay-Course-1280\u00d7300-1-3.svg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-42688 lazyload\" width=\"781\" height=\"182\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 781px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 781\/182;\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"To_get_free_counselingsupport_on_UPSC_preparation_from_expert_mentors_please_call_9773890604\"><\/span><strong>To get free counseling\/support on UPSC preparation from expert mentors please call 9773890604<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Join our Main Telegram Channel and access PYQs, Current Affairs and UPSC&nbsp; Guidance for free \u2013 <a href=\"https:\/\/t.me\/Edukemy4IAS\">Edukemy for IAS<\/a><\/li><li>Learn Economy for free-<a href=\"https:\/\/t.me\/+uq2Jq2ezMHE3ZjA1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> Economy for UPSC<\/a><\/li><li>Mains Answer Writing Practice-<a href=\"https:\/\/t.me\/+HS9DZh7PTytkNjJl\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Mains Answer Writing<\/a><\/li><li>For UPSC Prelims Resources, <a href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/upsc-cse-prelims-resource-centre\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Click here<\/a><\/li><\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Visit_our_YouTube_Channel_%E2%80%93_Here\"><\/span>Visit our YouTube Channel \u2013 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/@EduKemyforIAS\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Here<\/a><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Today&#8217;s daily current affairs briefing for UPSC aspirants explores the latest developments relevant to the upcoming civil services examination<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":21,"featured_media":43469,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_eb_attr":"","om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"_uf_show_specific_survey":0,"_uf_disable_surveys":false,"_lmt_disableupdate":"","_lmt_disable":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[265],"tags":[160,161,232,140],"class_list":["post-43467","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-current-affairs","tag-daily-current-affairs","tag-daily-current-affairs-upsc","tag-upsc","tag-upsc_preparation_strategy"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/43467","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/21"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=43467"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/43467\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":43498,"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/43467\/revisions\/43498"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/43469"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=43467"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=43467"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=43467"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}