CURRENT AFFAIRS MODEL PAPER 1 Marks Possible - 500 Pass Marks - 200 Time Allowed 3 Hours

Please pay attention to the instructions given in each Section. SECTION I Answer ANY TWO questions. Question 1 is compulsory. Answer in approx 250-300 words each. Each question carries 50 marks. Marks - 100 Q 1. Since 1993, the armed forces of China underwent transformative adjustments of a profound nature for over a decade during which the PLA made tremendous strides as a professional military force. Broadly explain the reforms and modernization that have been carried out. Q 2. Afghanistan has been in turmoil for far too long. Over a decade after the US launched Operation Enduring Freedom to smoke out Al Qaeda and other terrorists from Afghanistan, international forces are still engaged in the war. Although all foreign troops are scheduled to leave Afghanistan by the end of 2014, there is no clarity about the set-up that will rule Afghanistan after 2014. Analyse the current situation and future prospects in Afghanistan and implications for India. Q 3. At his first press conference, Xi Jinping, the newly elected Chinese President who was in Durban for the annual BRICS Summit in Mar 2013, proposed newly formulated Panchsheel to improve Sino-Indian relations. Analyse this formulation and its implications for India. SECTION II Marks 300 Answer ANY TEN questions in approx 100-150 words each. Each question carries 30 marks. Q 4. Explain the separatist threat faced by China in Xinjiang and the measures adopted by Beijing to contain it? Q 5. Indias voting for the US-sponsored UNHRC resolution censuring Sri Lanka in March 2013 has angered the Sri Lankan government. Analyse the reasons for Indias vote and its effect on the bilateral ties. Q 6. Why did protestors gather at Shahbag in Dhaka early this year? What has been its effect on the situation in Bangladesh?

2 Q 7. Release of a short hate video titled Innocence of Muslims in September 2012 triggered violent protests across much of the Muslim world. Analyse the reasons for the violence and ways to avoid / curb its recurrence. Q 8. What are the highlights and recommendations of the Kelkar Committee Report on Roadmap for fiscal consolidation? Q 9. What major amendments have been included in the Criminal Law Amendment Bill 2013 in respect of anti-rape law considering the draft bill and recommendations of Justice Verma Report as well as those made by womens groups? Q 10. Analyse the circumstances that led to a strike by Algerian forces against terrorists who had stormed a gas refinery in Jan 2013 and its aftermath. Q 11. What are the highlights of the Railway Budget 2013-14?

Q 12. What were the highlights of the Ministerial Meeting of the Indian Ocean Rim Association for Regional Cooperation (IOR-ARC) held in India in Nov 2012? Q 13. Indias quest for membership to the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) has recently suffered a setback because of objections from Turkey. Elucidate. Q 14. With the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP)-led government becoming the first civilian government to complete its term, political analysts have expressed the hope that Pakistan has completed an important milestone towards democracy. What were the difficulties faced by the PPP in completing the 5-year term?

SECTION III Answer ANY FIVE sub parts of this question in approx 75 words each. Each sub part carries 20 marks. Marks 100

Q 15. Q 16. Q 17. Q18. Q 19.

Write a short note on Hugo Chavez. What is the Pakistan connection to North Koreas third nuclear test? What is your assessment of the recent Chinese incursion near DBO? Write a short note on the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) scheme. Write a short note on Pankaj Advani.

Q 20. What is your view on the removal of MEK from the USs list of foreign terrorist organisations?

3 SUGGESTED ANSWERS MODEL PAPER 1 CURRENT AFFAIRS SECTION I Marks - 100 Answer ANY TWO questions. Question 1 is compulsory. Answer in approx 250-300 words each. Each question carries 50 marks. Question 1 Since 1993, the armed forces of China underwent transformative adjustments of a profound nature for over a decade during which the PLA made tremendous strides as a professional military force. Broadly explain the reforms and modernization that have been carried out. Suggested Answer 1 Background 1. Modernization of the PLA was part of the Four Modernizations initiated by Deng Xiaoping in the 1980s. However, since 1993, there have been focused and sustained efforts to reform and modernize resulting in tremendous strides by the PLA as a professional military force. Reforms and modernization 2. The reforms and modernization efforts of the PLA have been carried out in the following areas:(a) Weapons and Technology. Development, procurement, acquisition and fielding of new weapon systems, technologies and combat capabilities:(i) Acquisition. SU-27 and SU-30 aircraft, Kilo Class submarines, Sovremenny destroyers, and PGMs form Russia. (ii) Indigenous Production. Indigenously produced conventional weapons systems like submarines, surface vessels, armour, missiles and communications equipment have been introduced into service. (iii) Nuclear Weapons. The PLA has been upgrading the quality and survivability of its nuclear arsenal. (iv) Research and Development. The PLA has been engaged domestically in producing information-age technologies, to include the creation of a fourth general department (General Equipment Department) in 1998.

4 (b) Institutional and Systemic Reforms. reforms to include:There have been a large number of

(i) Professional Training. Critical changes in the PLAs corporate culture that are focused on raising the levels of professionalism of the officer corps and enlisted force (especially NCOs) and making them more adept at employing and maintaining new battlefield technologies. (ii) Optimisation. Many organisational changes have been introduced, like:Major changes in officers professional military

(aa) Education. education system.

(ab) Sourcing. More stringent requirements for officer commissioning, diversification of the source of commissioning and standardisation of criteria for promotion. (ac) NCO Corps. Creation of a corps of professional NCOs.

(ad) Force structure adjustments that include a significant new emphasis on the Navy, Air Force and Strategic Rocket Forces, downsizing of staffs, consolidation of ground force units at divisional and brigade levels, and new battlefield logistics paradigms. (c) Doctrinal Changes. New war-fighting doctrines have been developed for employment of the new capabilities. In 1999, the PLA revised its operational-level doctrine from its previous emphasis on ground force-centric combined arms operations to one emphasising joint operations in the aerospace, maritime and electromagnetic battle space dimensions. This new operational doctrine is aimed at shifting the PLA:(i) From a focus on operational planning to prosecute protracted wars on the mainland to short-duration high-intensity joint campaigns off Chinas littorals, (ii) From focusing on an enemys weakest forces to attacking and destroying the enemys most vital assets, (iii) From the concept of mass to the concept of concentration of firepower; and (iv) From static defences to mobile offenses. In short, the attention of the PLA is doctrinally fixed on being able to prosecute short campaigns inflicting shock and paralysis (as against long wars of attrition) to level the technological playing field at the inception of hostilities by concentrating PLAs best capabilities against the enemys most important assets. Conclusion 3. The programmes instituted by the PLA constitute a set of significant strides in modernization, and reform which will enable the PLA to become a more capable force in an operational sense and a more professional one in an institutional sense. It is the result of a

5 series of carefully made decisions, sustained focus, increased levels of funding, prioritisation and incrementally implemented changes and adjustments over time. Question 2 Afghanistan has been in turmoil for far too long. Over a decade after the US launched Operation Enduring Freedom to smoke out Al Qaeda and other terrorists from Afghanistan, international forces are still engaged in the war. Although all foreign troops are scheduled to leave Afghanistan by the end of 2014, there is no clarity about the set-up that will rule Afghanistan after 2014. Analyse the current situation and future prospects in Afghanistan and implications for India. Suggested Answer 2 General 1. Today, after over a decade of their presence in Afghanistan, the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) continues to be engaged in a war with no end in sight. Current Situation. 2. War on Terror. (a) Although the US would like to believe that it has achieved a victory in the War on terror, ISAF has had only limited success. (b) US drone attacks, although somewhat reduced in numbers against terrorists, especially those hiding in sanctuaries in northwest Pakistan / near AfghanistanPakistan border continue to be successful. (c) Suicide attacks by Taliban against the ISAF as well as Afghan security forces and government establishments continue. (d) In the past few months there have been instances of Afghan troops killing their US trainers. (e) Despite US pressure, Pakistan has not launched its offensive against the Haqqani network. 3. Transition of Security Responsibility to Afghan Security Forces (ASF). The ISAF finally handed over the responsibility for security of Afghanistan to the ASF in Jun 2013. Henceforth, the ISAF will only be in support role to the ASF. Prospects Post-2014 4. International community is keen that Afghanistan should remain stable and peaceful

after the final withdrawal of the ISAF. Although the US is likely to maintain some troops post2014, their exact composition has not yet been finalised. The international community has realised that it is important to have a negotiated settlement for sharing power with the Taliban. Unfortunately, this has not been possible so far.

4 5. Negotiations with Taliban. Taliban have opened an office in Qatar and the Afghan High Peace Council is expected to go to Qatar to discuss peace talks. The US Secretary of State, John Kerry has clarified that the talks are subject to certain conditions (Red lines) respect the Afghan constitution, dissociate from Al-Qaeda and renounce violence. If a negotiated settlement is not achieved prior to the final withdrawal of the ISAF, there is a danger that Afghanistan may return to the dark days of civil war of the 1990s. 6. Efforts to Achieve a Negotiated Settlement. (a) Afghanistan and the US. Both Afghanistan and the US hope to achieve a working relationship with softer segments of the Taliban. So far, Taliban have refused to directly negotiate with the Afghan President Karzai. Karzais allegation that the US and Taliban are trying to reach a secret deal has been denied by both parties. (b) Trilateral Dialogue Between India, Russia and China. India has carried out two sets of trilateral dialogues, the India-US-Afghanistan and the India-Russia-China so far, but without yet coming to any concrete solution. All the countries are anxious about the export of extremism and terror into their respective countries. (c) India and China. In Apr 2013, the two neighbours had a first ever formal dialogue on Afghanistan to discuss likely fallout of the situation in Afghanistan post2014 on their security and economic interests. The main outcome of the dialogue has been that both sides have accepted the importance of the dialogue as it helps them to coordinate their positions, deepen cooperation and contribute to early settlement of the issue. Both the countries have decided to continue these bilateral consultations. (d) Pakistan is the Problem. Pakistan, a crucial interlocutor between the two sides, has demanded an extraordinary price for its services. It has called for a Strategic Partnership Agreement (SPA) that would require Afghanistan to cut all ties with India and send Afghan Army personnel for training to Pakistan. Such an agreement would turn Afghanistan into a satellite state of Pakistan which appears to be aspiring to use Afghanistan as a strategic depth against India. 7. Prospects of Instability in Afghanistan. It bodes ill for the region and India. A lot depends on Pakistan which may try to install a compliant regime as it had done after the Soviet withdrawal. However, things are not likely to be so easy for Pakistan either. The ethnic minorities in Afghanistan having suffered during the Taliban rule do not want the Taliban to share any power in a post-2014 Afghan government. However, Pakistan is keen to have a pliant government in Kabul with Taliban sharing power. The availability of large number of terrorist groups at its disposal may prompt Pakistan to utilise their services for infiltration into India. Implications for India 8. A peaceful, stable and democratic Afghanistan is in Indias interest. Indias contribution in rebuilding of Afghanistan has been wide and meaningful, particularly in socio-economic and infrastructure sectors. The Indian military has been training Afghan military personnel for over five decades.

9.

Recommendations. (a) Negotiated Settlement. India should work closely with countries like Russia and Iran which are also keen to have a stable and peaceful Afghanistan. (b) Rebuilding of Afghanistan. (i) Diversification. Diversify its contribution in other sectors like building democratic governance institutions. (ii) Accessibility. India should try to develop alternative access routes to Afghanistan via Chabahar port in Iran as well as through Central Asian republics. (iii) Military Training. This should be further enhanced by not only increasing the number of vacancies for ASF personnel on traing courses in India but also exploring the possibility of conducting military training in Afghanistan by sending Indian training teams. (iv) Encourage Private Investment. Besides increasing the Indian governments participation in the energy sector for exploration, participation of Indian corporates should also be encouraged. (v) Security. India should volunteer to be part of any peacekeeping force under the UN or any other regional or international arrangement to ensure the security in Afghanistan. Question 3

At his first press conference, Xi Jinping, the newly elected Chinese President who was in Durban for the annual BRICS Summit in Mar 2013, proposed newly formulated Panchsheel to improve Sino-Indian relations. Analyse this formulation and its implications for India. Suggested Answer 3 1. While he was at Durban, South Africa for the BRICS Summit in Mar 2013, Chinese President Xi Jinping enunciated the new Panchsheel, ie, five principles on which SinoIndian bilateral relationship should be based. 2. The Original Panchsheel Agreement. Signed by the two countries in 1954, the Agreement was based on the following five principles:(a) (b) (c) (d) Mutual respect for each others territorial integrity and sovereignty, Mutual non-aggression, Mutual non-interference in each others internal affairs, Equality and mutual benefit, and 8

(e)

Peaceful coexistence. Following principles to be followed to improve the bilateral

3. The New Panchsheel. relations:(a)

Maintain strategic communication and keep bilateral relations on the right track.

(b) Harness each others comparative strength and expand win-win cooperation in infrastructure, and mutual investment. (c) Strengthen cultural ties and increase mutual understanding and friendship between our people. (d) Expand coordination and collaboration in multilateral affairs to jointly safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries and tackle global challenges. (e) Accommodate each others core concerns and handle problems and differences existing between the two countries.

4.

Boundary Question. On this important issue, Xi said that it is a complex issue left from history, and solving it wont be easy. But he felt that as long as we keep up our friendly consultations, we can eventually arrive at a fair, reasonable and mutually acceptable settlement. He further stated that pending the final settlement, we should work together to maintain peace and tranquillity in border areas and prevent the boundary question from affecting the overall development in bilateral ties. Analysis 5. Although the wording of the new Panchsheel is not the same as the original one, essentially, it conveys similar meaning. 6. Strategic Communication and Bilateral Relations. As the two countries with the largest populations and among the top economies, it is essential that India and China maintain strategic communication and keep bilateral relations on the right track. In fact, despite differences on a number of issues, both the countries have realised the importance of these and have been ensuring this all along. 7. Harnessing Each Others Comparative Strength and Cooperation. The harnessing of comparative strength and cooperation in infrastructure and investment is feasible through a balanced economic relationship. This means that China needs to open its markets to India by lowering barriers to import of Indian goods to remove the current imbalance in trade and commerce. 8. Strengthening of Cultural Ties and Mutual Understanding. process and should be strengthened further. This is a continuous

9. Expanding Coordination and Collaboration in Multilateral Affairs. Here, Xi talked about jointly safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries and tackle global challenges. India and China have been successfully coordinating / collaborating at a number of international forums like the environmental / climate forums. 9

However, it is not only other developing countries rights and interests but also each others, particularly in respect of India. For example, China should cooperate and coordinate in Indias favour for a permanent UN Security Council seat as well as membership of the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG). Accommodating Each Others Core Concerns. China has not defined or stated its core concerns. These could be the activities of Dalai lama in India, Indias close ties with the US, Japan, and Vietnam, particularly, the Indo-Vietnamese joint exploration in the South China Sea. For India, the core concerns are the Chinese investment in Gwadar port in Pakistan, building of dams on the Brahmaputra by China, building of nuclear reactors in Pakistans Chashma power project by China. As a rising superpower, China should legitimately expect support from India for its concerns. Similarly, China should understand that Indian aspirations also need to be supported by China.

10.

Suggested Response by India 11. India should welcome the new Panchsheel. Specific to each of the five principles, it should persuade Chinese compliance based on Indias interests / concerns:(a) Strategic Communication. Consultations should be continued on all issues, like it was recently carried out in respect of the incursion by Chinese troops across the LAC in Ladakh. (b) Harnessing Each Others Comparative Strength. India should persuade China to remove the economic imbalance in their relationship by easing barriers on import of Indian goods into China. (c) Strengthening of Cultural Ties and Mutual Understanding. should be further strengthened. Cultural ties

(d) Expanding Coordination and Collaboration in Multilateral Affairs. India should persuade China to support Indian interests at multilateral forums, like supporting Indias case for a UN Security Council seat, membership of the NSG and Indias participation in the rebuilding of Afghanistan post-2014 (for which a bilateral dialogue is already on between the two countries). (e) Accommodating Each Others Core Concerns. There is no reason to be apologetic or defensive about Indias relations with Vietnam and Japan as they do not pose a threat to China. However, the presence of Chinese troops in POK and GilgitBasltistan, Chinese Navy at Gwadar port and transfer of nuclear technology / missiles as also building of nuclear reactors by China at Chashma power plant do pose a threat to India. Also, the fact that Chinas building dams on the Brahmaputra adversely affects the flow in India. This must be made clear to China and it should be persuaded to accommodate these core concerns. (f) Boundary Question. Despite having agreed to maintain peace and tranquillity along the Sino-Indian border, every few months there happens to be some incursion be the Chinese troops across the LAC like the recent incursion of about a platoon strength by Chinese troops in Ladakh. India should persuade China to avoid such incidents besides resolving such issues amicably. 10

SECTION II Marks 280 Answer ANY TEN questions in approx 100-150 words each. Each question carries 30 marks. Question 4 Explain the separatist threat faced by China in Xinjiang and the measures adopted by Beijing to contain it? Suggested Answer 4 Separatist Threat in Xinjiang 1. The threat in Xinjiang is ethnic and religious separatism.

2. Background. During the tumult of 1930s and 40s, the people of this region managed twice to establish short-lived autonomous East Turkestan republics. In 1950, the PLA re-established Chinese control over this region. Since then, the people (mainly Uighurs Muslims who retained their faith during the communist era) of Xinjiang have had an uneasy relationship with Beijing due to their desire for greater autonomy or even independence. 3. Violence Erupts. In the 1990s, Muslim separatists seeking to recreate East Turkestan engaged in bombings of civilian targets and government institutions in Xinjiang. They also established links with Al Qaeda and the Taliban regime in Afghanistan where some Uighur members of the ETIM (East Turkestan Islamic Movement) received terrorist training. 4. Measures Adopted by China. (a) Armed Action. The Chinese military as well as police forces have been employed to suppress the threat. (b) Cooperation sought from SCO Members. The Chinese have been engaged in security cooperation with their Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) partners to address the threat posed by these Muslim separatists, including periodic antiterrorism exercises. (c) Change Demographic Pattern. The Chinese have sought to increase the presence of ethnically Han Chinese in Xinjiang in order to shift the balance of power away from the Uighurs. (d) Economic Development. The Chinese have also been encouraging the Go West programme of economic development to try and bring more prosperity to this north-western regionof their country.

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Question 5 Q 5. Indias voting for the UNHRC resolution censuring Sri Lanka in March 2013 has angered the Sri Lankan government. Analyse the reasons for Indias vote and its effect on the bilateral ties. Suggested Answer 5 1. The US-sponsored UNHRC Resolution passed in Mar 2013 calls on the Sri Lankan government to effectively implement the recommendations of its own Lessons Learned and Reconciliation Commission (LLRC). Indias Reasons for Voting in Favour 2. (a) Political and Public Sentiments in Tamil Nadu. Overwhelmingly in favour

of the Sri Lankan Tamils. (b) Veracity of Allegations Against Sri Lanka. Credible evidence of war

crimes and human rights violations by Sri Lankan armed forces is available. (c) Risk of an Anti-India Move by Sri Lanka. India voting against Sri Lanka has

a risk that it may retaliate by voting for a similar resolution on Jammu and Kashmir in future. However, it can be managed through diplomacy. 3. Effect on Bilateral Ties. It is evident that Indias decision of supporting the UNHRC resolution has disappointed Sri Lanka. India has explained to Sri Lanka that India being its closest neighbour, cannot be untouched by what happens in Sri Lanka. Notwithstanding that Sri Lankans are upset, India should pursue the case for early completion of the reconciliation process with the Sri Lankan government. Question 6 Why did protestors gather at Shahbag in Dhaka early this year? What has been its effect on the situation in Bangladesh? Suggested Answer 6 Background 1. Since the formation of Bangladesh, there had been a popular demand to bring to justice those culprits who helped Pakistan Armys genocide in 1971. After the Awami League came to power with Sheikh Hasina as the Prime Minister, a War Tribunal was set up to try the war criminals of 1971 who are mostly members / leaders of Jamat-e-Islami (JeI, Bangladesh) or their supporters from the main opposition party, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). 2. Reasons for the Protests. The trigger for the protests was the sentencing of JeI leader, Abdul Qader Mollah to life rather than death which was expected. The protestors were young students. They were in thousands and kept swelling by the hour as messages 12

kept being passed by supporters using the social media. They did not allow any political party members / leaders to join them. Their demands were:(a) Death penalty for all war criminals of 1971 genocide. (b) Ban on religious parties. (c) Reversion of Bangladesh to a secular state. Situation worsens 3. The JeI launched a counter protest and demanded that the bloggers (who used the social mediaagainst the JeI) be tried for blasphemy. 10 days after the protests, one of the leading bloggers of the protests, Ahmad Rajib Haider was murdered by suspected JeI men. JeI has been mounting strikes since Jan 2013 to protest trial of its leaders by the War Tribunal. In fact, the JeI has been threatening a civil war. Effect of the Shahbag Protests 4. The movement launched by non-political elements at Shahbag appear to be aimed at restoring Bangladeshs secular polity and eliminate the politics of religious fundamentalism that has afflicted the country. It is, indeed, a good trend for the whole world in general and Bangladesh as well as South Asia in particular. India should encourage this trend and help the Awami League government so that it retains power in the upcoming national elections since bilateral ties have always improved whenever the Awami League has been in power. Question 7 Release of a short hate video titled Innocence of Muslims in September 2012 triggered violent protests across much of the Muslim world. Analyse the reasons for the violence and ways to avoid / curb its recurrence. Suggested Answer 7 1. Violent protests engulfed Muslim countries in West Asia, North Africa and elsewhere after a 14-minute trailer of the film, Innocence of Muslims (The Real Life of Muhammad) with Arabic titles, made by an American was shown on a Salafi satellite channel on 09 September 2012. Reasons for Protests 2. Outrage at Insult to Faith. The news about the release of a film containing insult to the Prophet was enough to cause outrage among Muslims. 3. Deep-seated Resentment against the US Policy of Intervention and Use of Drones against Unarmed Civilians. In countries like Egypt, Tunusia, Iraq, Yemen, Algeria, Jordon and Morocco where pro-US dictators or autocrats have been ruling or where a regime change was suspected to be made or attempted by the US in the aftermath of the Arab Spring, the protests were mainly to vent the anger against the US policies of intervention. In countries such as Pakistan, Afghanistan and Yemen, the protests were provoked by the unrestrained use of drones by the US to target the populace. 4. Resentment against Authoritarian Regimes. Although most authoritarian regimes do not permit protests, they do make an exception to allow protests for insult to the faith. Protesters in such countries utilised the opportunity to vent their anger against their rulers.

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5. Reactions from the West. Although the US President, Barak Obama denounced the crude and disgusting video, he also stated that the US would protect the right of all people to express their views, even views that we profoundly disagree with. Similarly, most European countries defended the film under the cloak of freedom of speech. Ways to Avoid Protests 6. There is no doubt that among most Western countries and in the US, particularly after 9 / 11, Islamophobia (fear and hatred of Islam) has taken roots in the minds of general populace. This can only fuel further outrage among the Muslims. There is a need to be more rational and sensitive towards people of all faiths. Freedom of speech and expression should be balanced with the need to take into account the sensitivities of people of all faiths. It is essential to consider this aspect in policymaking. Question 8 What are the highlights and recommendations of the Kelkar Committee Report on Roadmap for fiscal consolidation? Suggested Answer 8 VIJAY KELKAR COMMITTEE REPORT ON ROADMAP FOR FISCAL CONSOLIDATION Highlights 1. (a) State of Indian Economy. It is presently poised on the edge of a fiscal precipice, making corrective measures aimed at fiscal consolidation an imperative necessity. (b) Rise in Fiscal Deficit. (i) (ii) The fiscal deficit could rise due to:-

Likely shortfall of Rs 60,000 crore in gross tax revenues. Potential increase in the subsidy bill by Rs 70,000 crore in 2012-13. Failure to take timely action could result in a worse situation than

(c) Warning. that 1991.

(d) Disinvestment Programme. It would be extremely difficult for the government to move ahead with its disinvestment programme, given the subdues equity market conditions. If no policy intervention were made, it could stand at Rs 10,000 crore. 2. Recommendations. (a) Drastic Cut in Diesel Subsidy. (i) (ii) (b) Half the subsidy per unit should be eliminated by Mar 2013. Remaining to be eliminated in the next fiscal year. The subsidy should be removed by 2014-15.

Cut in LPG Subsidy.

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(c) Gradual Implementation. The government should keep adjusting the price on regular basis in incremental steps towards eventual deregulation of diesel and an affordable level of subsidy on LPG and kerosene. (d) Increase in MRP of UREA. The MRP to be increased by 10 per cent in the first year and subsequent increases to be linked to any increase in the pooled gas price and in fixed costs. (e) Food Subsidy. (i) Pricing. The Central Issue Price(CIP) to be increased in accordance with any upward revision in the Minimum Support Price (MSP). (ii) Food Security Bill. The Bill may be appropriately phased , taking into account the present difficult fiscal challenge. (iii) Reduction in Subsidies. healthy tax-to-GDP ratio. This should go hand-in-hand with ensuring a

(f) Direct and Indirect Taxes. A series of steps have been recommended for better compliance and administration of the Direct and Indirect Taxes. 3. Acceptance of the Recommendations. In September 2012, the government accepted the main recommendations made by the Vijay Kelkar Committee. Question 9 What major amendments have been included in the Criminal Law Amendment Bill 2013 in respect of anti-rape law considering the draft bill and recommendations of Justice Verma Report as well as those made by womens groups? Suggested Answer 9 1. The Criminal Law Amendment Bill 2013 was passed by the both the houses of Parliament in Mar 2013. 2. Major Amendment Included. (a) Tougher Punishment. Tougher punishments have been provided.

(a) Ambit. Stalking, voyeurism and acid attacks, attempt to acid attack and public disrobing of woman under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and included as crimes against women. (c) Gender-specific. The expression sexual assault used in the Ordinance has been replaced by the gender specific rape only women can be its victims. 3. Details of Crimes and Punishments. IPC Section Offence Punishment

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326A

Acid attack

Imprisonment not less than 10 years but extendable to life imprisonment and with just and reasonable fine to meet medical expenses to be paid to the victim.

326B

Attempt to Acid attack

Imprisonment not less than five years but extendable to seven years and be liable to fine.

354A

Sexual harassment

Rigorous imprisonment upto one year, or with fine or with both.

354B

Public disrobing of Woman

Imprisonment not less than three years but extendable to seven years with fine. Imprisonment not less than one year for first conviction but extendable upto three years, and also liable to fine and for a second or subsequent conviction for a term not less than three years and liable to fine.

354C

Voyeurism

354D

Stalking

Imprisonment not less than one year but Extendable upto three years and also Liable to fine. Question 10

Analyse the circumstances that led to a strike by Algerian forces against terrorists who had stormed a gas refinery in Jan 2013 and its aftermath. Suggested Answer 10 Background 1. Algerian Islamic radicals who refused to sign the 1999 peace accord with the Algerian government have wracked the country. With support from Al Qaeda in Islamic Maghreb (AQIM), they have been involved in kidnapping, smuggling, drug / human trafficking across the Sahel.

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Storming of Gas Refinery 2. Terrorist Attack. An Islamic militant outfit affiliated to Al Qaeda, calling itself Signers in Blood attacked a gas plant called In Amenas in Algeria. The terrorists took Westerners as hostages in the hope of negotiating release of fellow jihadists from Algerian jails. 3. Algerian Forces Strike. Algerian forces laid a siege of the plant and stormed it on 16 Jan 2013 resulting in the death of over 80 people, mostly Westerners but also including 29 militants. 4. Timely Strike. The strike was timely. After the militants failed to take the hostages out of the plant and negotiate directly with foreign countries, they wanted to explode the gas compound along with a large number of hostages. Delay would have resulted in higher casualties Aftermath 5. The British and Japanese governments were critical of the strike. There were 10 Japanese among those killed. Russian President Putin blamed the West and their role in countries like Syria and Libya for the rise in terror attacks in the region. The French were supportive. France requires Algerias cooperation for its operations in Mali. Question 11 What are the highlights of the Railway Budget 2013-14? Suggested Answer 11 1. The Railway Budget 2013-14 was presented by the Railway Minister, P K Bansal on 26 Feb 2013. Highlights 2. Railway Finances. (a) (b) (c) (d) Budget Outlay. Rs 63,000 crore. Rs 26,000 crore.

Budgetary Support. Revenue Target. Projected Loss.

Rs 1.46 lakh crore. Rs 24,600 crore. 87.8 % as against

(e) Projected Total Expenses (as percentage of revenue). current 88.8 %. (f) Projects.

347 projects have been prioritised for completion.

(g) Debt Service Fund (DSF). A DSF is planned to meet financial commitments and build a Rs 30,000 crore balance by the final year of the 12th Plan. 17

3.

Passengers. (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f) (g) No increase in fares (as fares already hiked in Jan 2013). Charges for Tatkal, reservation and cancellation increased. Ticket booking by mobile phones. SMS alerts to travellers. Free Wi-Fi on trains. Cleanliness drive at 104 stations. Bio-toilets in more trains.

4.

Trains. (a) (b) (c) New Trains. 67 express and 26 passenger trains.

Route Extension of 57 trains. Frequency. Increased for 24 trains. Anubhuti coach in premium trains to provide latest facilities and

(d) New Coach. services. (e) 5. New Rail Link.

First-ever rail link to Arunachal Pradesh.

Security. (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f) (g)

Introduction of the following:-

Train protection warning in automatic signalling systems. Four all-women Railway Protection Force (RPF) companies for safety of women. 10 per cent of all RPF vacancies reserved for women. Comprehensive fire and smoke detection systems in coaches. Fire extinguishers in select wagons. 179 escalators and 400 lifts in A-1 stations. Braille stickers on coaches, more wheel-chairs.

6.

Positive Aspects. (a) Aim. The aim of making the Railways solvent and starting the stalled investment in the economy is positive. (b) Fuel Adjustment Component (FAC). with the fuel cost. It allows the freight rates to go along

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(c) Rail Tariff Authority (RTA). fare adjustment is welcome.

An independent RTA for automatic freight and

(d) Involvement of Private Sector. The proposal to involve the private sector to enhance investment and increase freight volume and revenue is welcome. 7. Criticism. (a) Routine. Critics have opined that the Budget concentrates on elementary governance and routine operational issues rather than building an operationally and financially strong organisation. (b) Lacklustre. Some critics have pointed out that the Budget lacks any strategy to build up the Indian Railways as a bulwark of national infrastructure. (c) Key Issues Unaddressed. (i) (ii) Increase in trains with commensurate increase in line capacity. Separate freight lines. Question 12 What were the highlights of the Ministerial Meeting of the Indian Ocean Rim Association for Regional Cooperation (IOR-ARC) held in India in Nov 2012? Suggested Answer 12 1. Ministerial Meeting of the IOR-ARC was held on 02 Nov2012 at Gurgaon, India.

Highlights 2. Admission of New Members. (a) (b) Member. Cameroon was admitted as the 20th member. The US was admitted as the sixth dialogue partner. Mr Salman Khurshid highlighted the following

Dialogue Partner.

3. External Affairs minsters Address. points in his address:-

(a) Cooperative Regionalism. India strongly backs increased economic relations between the members of the group and calls for cooperative regionalism. (b) Geo-strategic Significance. highlighted. The geo-strategic importance of the region was

(c) Shift in Global Economic Growth. As the focus of global economic growth shifted to Asia, it would occupy even greater salience in the groups strategic perspective.

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(d) Maritime Commerce and Safety. Maritime commerce and safety of seafarers were of concern to all the members of the group. 4. Gurgaon Declaration. (a) The Associations membership was open to all sovereign states of the IOR that adhered to the principles and objectives of its Charter. (b) The priorities for cooperation identified at the last Ministerial Meeting at Bangalore in 2011, namely, maritime security and piracy, disaster risk reduction, trade and investment facilitation, fisheries management, academic and science and technology cooperation, and tourism and cultural exchanges have helped bringing greater focus on the groups work with several cooperation initiatives being taken in each of these priority areas. (c) The Indian Oceans stability and well-being were critical to global economic prosperity. (d) The IOR-ARC was convinced that it can augment its capacities to deal with common challenges in a more effective manner by forging enduring partnerships amongst the members. (e) The members supported closer interaction between the Association and regional organisations in the Indian Ocean, such as the African Union. Question 13 Indias quest for membership to the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) has recently suffered a setback because of objections from Turkey. Elucidate. Suggested Answer 13 1. Since the successful signing of the Indo-US nuclear deal, India has been seeking the membership of the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) with little success so far. However, Turkeys special relationship with Pakistan appears to be the hurdle. 2. Turkeys Objections. During the visit of Turkish foreign ministry delegation to India in Feb 2013, the following clarification was given:(a) (b) Turkey did not object to Indias NSG membership. Turkey is pushing a criteria-based membership.

3. Divergence of Views. Turkey is pushing a case for Pakistan to enhance its engagement with the NSG. India interprets this as a backdoor entry for Pakistan, a known nuclear proliferator, into the NSG. Turkey denies this and states that Turkeys relations with India are strategic and its relations with Pakistan should not impact India. 4. India-Turkey Relations. India and Turkey have had friendly bilateral relations. India is the second biggest economic partner of Turkey, after China. The two share a common 20

vision for regional and international problems, moving together under international mechanisms like G-20. 5. Analysis. Turkey had supported the NSG waiver for nuclear commerce with India in 2008. Hence the raising of objections on non-proliferation has struck a discordant note in India. But the objections are similar to the ones that China had made earlier. India should continue to pursue its efforts to obtain membership of the NSG as well as other nuclear regimes through efficient diplomacy. Question 14 With the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP)-led government becoming the first civilian government to complete its term, political analysts have expressed the hope that Pakistan has completed an important milestone towards democracy. What were the difficulties faced by the PPP in completing the 5-year term? Suggested Answer 14 1. For a civilian government to complete its five-year term in Pakistan is a great achievement. But for democracy to take roots in Pakistan will take time. Difficulties Faced by Zardari 2. The main difficulties faced by Zardari were:(a) (b) (c) Pressure from the Military. Security issues. Judicial activism.

3. Pressure from the Military. The Military flexed its muscles whenever the civilian government tried to overstep into the Militarys turf. For example, when Zardari asked the DG ISI to visit India after the 26 / 11 Mumbai attacks, he was snubbed by the Military. 4. Security Issues. Although security issues are the exclusive preserve of the Military, being a duly elected civilian government, a facade had to be maintained of the civilian government including Parliament having a say in policymaking. At times, the civilian government had to be involved but that was invariably when the Military needed a fall guy to take the blame like when the US Navy Seals killed Osama bin Laden in Abbotabad. 5. Judicial Activism. While the judiciary was active in the case of the civilian government, for example, in the case of writing to the Swiss authorities to reopen investigation against Zardari, it remained silent about the misdoings of the military as in the case of the ISI having funded political parties during elections. Overcoming the Difficulties 6. Zardari accepted the reality that national security and issues central to Pakistans existence, such as relations with the US, India and Afghanistan remain the exclusive domain of the Military. Consequently, Zardari did not interfere with the Militarys exclusive preserve 21

as also did not go after other political parties to avoid their wrath and concentrated on survival of the government. In the bargain, governance suffered. SECTION III Answer ANY FIVE sub parts of this question in approx 75 words each. Each sub part carries 20 marks. Question 15 Write a short note on Hugo Chavez. Suggested Answer 15 HUGO CHAVEZ 1. Hugo Chavez, the President elect of Venuzuela died recently of cancer within six months of his re-election. He was undoubtedly one of the tallest Left leaders in the world who had excellent public relations skills and a genuine interest in the welfare of ordinary people. 2. Political Career. (a) Established the Venuzuelan Peoples Liberation Army (ELPV) in 1977 which later became the Revolutionary Bolivarian Movement-200 (MBR-200). (c) The catalysing event for Chavez came in 1989 with the famous popular uprising in Caracas and the regimes suppression of it in which thousands were massacred. (d) (e) (f) (g) 3. The MBR-200 mounted a coup in 1992 which failed and Chavez was jailed. Won instant popularity while in prison. Released by virtue of government pardon in 1994. Elected President in 1998 and re-elected successively thereafter. Marks 100

Achievement as President. (a) The transformation brought in social justice, health, equality and poverty alleviation has been recognised by the UNDP and WHO. (b) From communal councils to worker-run factories, from community radio stations to TV channels to tens of thousands of business cooperatives, Chavez initiated some of the most sophisticated experiments in direct democracy, socialisation and workers control. (c) Uniting Latin America. Propounded a Bolivarian vision and was instrumental in establishing the Alliance of the Peoples of our America (ALBA), Union of South American Nations (UNASUR) and the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) among South American countries. 22

4. Lessons for India. Instead of blindly following liberalism, which is the root cause of the growing economic disparity, India should take note of the best practices of Venezuela to improve social parameters. Question 16 What is the Pakistan connection to North Koreas third nuclear test? Suggested Answer 16 PAKISTAN CONNECTION IN NORTH KOREAS THIRD NUCLEAR TEST 1. Soon after North Korea conducted its third nuclear test in Feb 2013, India protested against it. Besides, India sees an evidence of a clandestine proliferation network run from Pakistan if the test was conducted with enriched uranium. 2. It was during Pakistans then prime Minister, Benazir Bhuttos visit to North Korea in 1993 that nuclear technology was transferred by Pakistan to North Korea in exchange for missiles and technology. It is pertinent to note that it was in Feb 2013 that Pakistan which has clandestinely obtained the technology for producing uranium as well as plutonium, yet again blocked moves to facilitate negotiations for the Fissile Material Cut-off Treaty (FMCT). 3. The US, South Korea and Japan have been investigating the details of the nuclear test including whether plutonium or uranium was used. 4. In Apr 2013, in a report by the US Defence Secretary, Chuck Hagel on North Koreas proliferation activity stated that North Korea has been using the notorious AQ Khan network to supply atomic materials to Libya and Syria and missile technology to Iran, Pakistan, Libya and Yemen. 5. For a safe and secure world, it is essential that proliferation activities of nations like Pakistan and North Korea be stopped. Unfortunately, the US is unlikely to act against Pakistan till the NATO-led international troops finally withdraw from Afghanistan by end 2014. Question 17 What is your assessment of the recent Chinese incursion near DBO? Suggested Answer 17 1. The Chinese People Liberation Army (PLA) troops of platoon strength crossed the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the Despang valley (about 19 km inside Indian territory) near Daulat Beg Oldie (DBO) on 15 Apr 2013. Despite three flag meetings at the local level, they have refused to vacate. However, after talks between the foreign offices and ambassadors of the two countries, the Chinese troops withdrew from the position they had intruded in the interest of peace and bilateral ties.

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2.

My Assessment. (a) Aggressive Occupation. It appears to be a deliberate attempt by the Chinese at aggressive occupation of areas across the LAC rather than a difference in perception / misinterpretation of the actual position of the LAC on the ground. (b) Reasons. (i) Could be one or more of the following:-

To alter the LAC bit-by-bit through novel methods.

(ii) To dissuade India to occupy / improve defences as well as infrastructure along the LAC. (iii) An attempt by the new Chinese leadership to test Indias response.

(iv) To discourage India to sign any strategic treaty or arrive at such an understanding with Japan (during Prime Minister Manmohan Singhs visit to Japan) which may have anti-China undertones. Question 18 Write a short note on the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) scheme. Suggested Answer 18 1. The Direct Cash Transfer (DCT) scheme was renamed as Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) scheme and launched on 01 Jan 2013 according to the following details:(a) Aim. To directly transfer entitlements and benefits (in cash) to people through biometric-based Aadhaar-linked bank accounts reducing several layers of intermediaries and delays in the system. (b) Coverage. (i) Area. territories. Initially limited to 20 districts in six states and three union

(ii) Schemes. 26 schemes such as educational scholarship for SC/ST and OBC, widow pension, food, fertilizers, LPG, diesel and kerosene. 2. Challenges / Difficulties in Implementation. (a) (b) (c) Only 21 crore of the 120 crore population have Aadhaar cards. Most BP (Below Poverty Line) families do not have bank accounts. Many villages do not have banks.

(d) Mobile connectivity is a major problem in backward areas and is essential for for online authentication.

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Question 19 Write a short note on Pankaj Advani. Suggested Answer 19 1. Ace Indian cueist, Pankaj Advani proved his class once again with his resounding (1895-1216) win over defending champion, Mike Russel in the World Billiards Championship final (time format) in Oct 2012 and earned his eighth world crown. He also made his pro snooker debut in 2012 defeating the likes of Steve Davis and former World No 1, John Higgins. 2. Pankaj has taken 17 years to get the eight world titles at the age of 27. Establishing a record in 2005, winning both the points and time format titles at the IBSF World billiards Championship and repeating the feat in 2008 Pankaj holds a Padmashri amongst numerous prizes. 3. Success has come to Pankaj after relentless hardwork he used to practise eight to 10 hours a day till he got his fundamentals right. At present, he practises four to six hours per day. Question 20 What is your view on the removal of MEK from the USs list of foreign terrorist organisations? Suggested Answer 20 1. Mujahedin-e-Khalq (MEK) is an organisation in Iran which portrays itself as the democratic opposition to the current Iranian government. The organisation was placed on the US list of foreign terrorist organisations in 1997 because of:(a) Its alleged role in assassinating US citizens prior to the 1979 revolution in Iran in which it was an active participant. (b) Its allying with Saddam Hussein against Iran, who also used the organisation to crush uprisings against him within Iraq. 2. Although the MEK claims that it renounced violence in 2001, it advocates the overthrow of the Islamic Republic of Iran. 3. Delisting of the MEK. The US media reported the MEKs removal from the US list of foreign terrorist organisations days before Iranian President, Mahmoud Ahmedinejad was to address the UN General Assembly in Sep 2012. 4. US Doublespeak Exposed. There have been allegations that the MEK has been helping Israel gather information about Irans nuclear scientists thereby giving rise to suspicions about a double standard at play when it comes to defining a terrorist organisation as far as the US is concerned.