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1. National Income Accounting 1.1. Significance of National Income Accounting 2. Concepts of National Income 2.1. GDP or Gross Domestic Product 2.1.1. Real GDP and Nominal GDP 2.2. GNP or Gross National Product 2.2.1. Net Factor Income from Abroad 2.3. Why GDP is the Most Acceptable Indicator Worldwide?2.4. Depreciation 2.5. NDP or Net Domestic Product NDP = GDP – Depreciation.2.6. NNP or Net National Product 2.7. The concept of Market Price and Factor Cost 2.8. National Income (NI)National Income at Factor Cost = NNP at Market Price – Indirect Taxes + Subsidies 2.9. Transfer Payments 2.10. Personal Income (PI)PI = NI + transfer payments — Corporate retained earnings, income taxes, social security taxes.3. Factors Affecting National Income 4. Comparing National Income Across Countries 4.1. Types of Exchange Rates 5. Measurement of National Income 5.1. Value Added Method 5.2. Income Method GDP = Wages+ Interest + Rent +Profit + Dividend + Indirect Taxes-Subsidies+ Depreciation 5.3. Expenditure Method GDP= C+I+G+X-IM Product Method Income Approach Expenditure Approach 5.5. Base Year, GDP Deflator 5.6. Difficulty of Measurement (With Special Reference to India)6. Recent Developments in GDP Measurement 6.1. Gross Value Added 7. Debates Around GDP and Other Indices 7.1. Economic Growth versus Development 7.2. Other Arguments Against GDP as a Parameter to Judge Progress 7.3. Other Indices to Measure Development 7.3.1. HDI or Human Development Index 7.3.2. Gender Inequality Index (GII)7.3.3. Gender Development Index (GDI)7.3.4. Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI)7.3.5. Inequality-Adjusted Human Development Index (IHDI)7.3.6. Green GDP 7.3.7. Gross National Happiness 7.3.8. Human Poverty Index or HPI 7.3.9. Genuine Progress Indicator 8. GS Mains Test Series Questions 1. “A new way of measuring GDP created the world's fastest-growing major economy overnight”. In the context of India analyse the benefits and concerns raised by the new methodology adopted to calculate GDP figures by the Central Statistical Organisation.Answer:9. Previous Years UPSC GS Mains Questions MONEY AND BANKING Contents 1. Money 1.1. Money or Credit Creation Process 1.2. Definition of Money 1.3. Functions and Significance of Money 1.4. Kinds of Money 1.5. Money Supply in India 1.6. Factors affecting Money Supply in India 2. Banking 2.1. Indian Banking System 2.2. Indian Banks Abroad 2.3. Another way of classification of banks 2.4. Banks v/s Non- Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs)2.5. Banking Reforms in India 2.6. Issue of Non-Performing Assets (NPAs)2.7. Some Important Terms 3. GS Mains Test Series Questions 1. Digital currency represents a decentralized form of money that is more secure, more fungible and more functional than anything we’ve seen before. Examine.Answer:2. Examine the reasons for poor performance of public sector banks in India. Give an account of the steps taken by the government and RBI to improve their performance. Also analyse whether the risks arising from the consolidation of the Indian banking sector outweigh the potential longer-term benefits.Answer:3. The advent of differentiated banking marks the beginning of a radical overhaul of the banking structure that would address the abysmal levels of financial inclusion in India. Elaborate. What are the possible issues that could impede the functioning of these banks?Answer:4. The proposal of floating Bad Bank has its merits. However, in Indian context, making it a success poses significant challenges. Discuss.Answer:5. Comment on the problem of rising Non Performing Assets (NPAs) in India, with particular reference to public sector banks. Examine the effectiveness of the steps taken by the government in recent times to deal with this problem.Answer:6. Even though the Pradhan Mantri Jan-Dhan Yojana is an accelerated effort towards financial inclusion, mere opening of bank accounts will not transform into financial inclusion in India. Analyse.Answer:7. MUDRA bank has been termed as a game changer for micro finance sector in the country. What are the objectives of MUDRA Bank? Is there a need of such an institution when there already are multiple schemes and institutions operating for the same purpose?Answer:4. Previous Years UPSC Mains Questions CENTRAL BANK AND MONETARY POLICY Contents 1. Central Bank Reserve Bank of India 2. Monetary Policy 2.1. Definition of Monetary Policy 2.2. Types of Monetary Policy 2.3. Objectives 2.4. Tools to Regulate Monetary Policy 2.5. Limitations of Monetary Policy 2.6. Revision of Monetary Policy in India 2.7. Monetary Policy Committee (MPC)2.8. Latest Developments 2.9. Miscellaneous 3. GS Mains Test Series Questions 1. In the context of Indian Economy, it is said that there are three macro-economic challenges -- managing growth inflation, mitigating vulnerability of the external factors and managing the political economy of fiscal consolidation. Discuss.Answer:2. What do you understand by Monetary Policy Trilemma? How can it be resolved in Indian context?Answer:3. Monetary policy transmission in India has largely remained ineffective. What are the reasons behind this? Explain what marginal cost-based lending rate (MCLR) is and how it can affect monetary policy transmission in India.Answer:4. Examine the causes of rupee depreciation and its impact on the Indian economy. Also discuss the steps taken by the Government and RBI to stem its slide.Answer:Impact of rupee depreciation:Steps taken up by RBI and Government:4. Previous Years UPSC GS Mains Questions FISCAL POLICY Contents 1. Introduction and Definition 2. Instruments of Fiscal Policy 2.1. Government or Public Expenditure 2.2. Government or Public Revenue 3. Cascading Effects of Taxation: MODVAT and CENVAT 4. Budgetary Deficits 4.1. Revenue Deficit 4.2. Fiscal Deficit 4.3. Primary Deficit 4.4. Deficit Financing 4.5. Deficit Reduction 5. Fiscal Policy in Action 5.1. Expansionary and Contractionary Fiscal Policy 5.2. Classical and Keynesian views of Fiscal Policy 5.4. Fiscal or Economic Stimulus 5.5. Effects of Fiscal Policy on Macro Economy 5.6. Effects of Fiscal Policy on Consumer Spending 6. Drawbacks and Limitations of Fiscal Policy 7. Fiscal Federalism and Centre State Transfers 7.1. The Finance Commission 7.2. Changes in Indian Taxation System 8. Recent Developments in Taxation System 8.1. Goods and Services Tax (GST)8.2. The Direct Taxes Code Bill, 2010 9. Miscellaneous 9.1. Tax Terrorism 9.2. Tax Evasion and Tax Avoidance 9.3. Tax Havens 10. GS Mains Test Series Questions 1. It is important for India to return to the path of fiscal consolidation while also increasing public investment. Explain why achieving both these objectives are important to revive the present economic environment in the country.Answer:B. Argument against Public Investment B. Challenges Way forward 11. Previous Years UPSC Mains questions GOVERNMENT BUDGETING Contents 1. Budgeting: Meaning and Importance 2. The Union of India’s Budget 2.1. Components of the Government Budget 2.2. Stages in Enactment 3. Weaknesses in the Budgetary Process 3.1. Weaknesses in Resource Allocation and Use 3.2. Weaknesses in the Indian Budgetary System and Implementation 4. Budgetary Reforms 4.1. Medium Term Budget Frameworks 4.2. Prudent Economic Assumptions 4.3. Top-Down Budgeting Techniques 4.4. Relaxing Central Input Controls 4.5. An Increased Focus on Results 4.6. Budget Transparency 4.7. Modern Financial Management Practices 5.2. Budget 2017-18 6. Evolution of Budgeting 6.1. The Line Item Budget 6.2. Performance Budgeting 6.3. Outcome budgeting 6.4. Zero-based Budgeting 6.5. Gender Budgeting 6.6. E-Budgeting 7. GS Mains Test Series Questions 1. What do you mean by gender budgeting? Examine the rationale and achievements of gender budgeting in India.Answer:2. What are the reasons behind a low tax base in India? Discuss the issues associated with it and the steps required to widen the tax base.Answer:A low tax collection adversely affects the economy in several ways :Way forward Benefits of Outcome based Budgeting Outcome Budgeting in India:Way Forward 8. Previous Years UPSC Mains Questions Contents 1. Definition of Inflation 2. Types of Inflation (on the basis of rate of inflation)3. Types of Inflation (based on causes)4. Associated Terms 5. Causes of Inflation b) Cost- Push Factors:c) Miscellaneous Factors:6. Impact of Inflation 7. Measures to Curb Inflation and their Limitations a) Monetary Measures Limitations of Monetary Measures in curbing inflation:b) Fiscal Measures c) Administrative Measures:8. Measures of Inflation 8.1. Inflation measurement based on period 8.2. GDP Deflator 8.3. Wholesale Price Index (WPI)8.4. Consumer Price Index (CPI)8.5. Services Price Index (SPI)8.6. Likely effect of GST on inflation rates 9. Recent Policy Measures to control inflation 9.1. Advantages of Monetary Policy Committee 9.2. Apprehensions against Monetary Policy Committee 10. GS Mains Test Series Questions 1. What do you understand by inflation? Critically evaluate the growth-inflation trade- off.Answer:2. What is inflation targeting? Describe the major recommendations of the Urjit Patel Committee for it.Answer:11. Previous Year UPSC GS Mains Questions EXTERNAL SECTOR AND CURRENCY EXCHANGE RATES Contents 1. Importance of External Sector – Why Imports and Exports Matter 2. Types of Economies- Closed/Inward and Open/Outward 3. Balance of Payments 3.1. Components of Balance of Payments 3.2. Balance of Payments Disequilibrium 3.3. Indian Balance of Payments Crisis (1991)4. Opening of Indian Economy- Neo Liberal Economic Reforms 1991 ♤ The objective was to abandon the legacy of License Raj, introduce Indian economy to markets and private sector, reduce restrictions and introduce Foreign Direct Investment.o Reduction in import tariffs, deregulation of markets, reduction of taxes, and greater foreign investment.4.2. Criticism of Neo-Liberal Economic Reforms / Is the Neo- Liberal Policy of 1991 Sustainable?5. Currency Exchange Rate 5.1. Real Exchange Rate 6. Exchange Rate System – Fixed and Flexible Exchange Rate 7. Currency Exchange Rates – Concepts a. Depreciation, Appreciation and Devaluation of Rupee ♤ Devaluation:fixed exchange rate system.b. NEER and REER c. Role of RBI in maintaining stability of rupee 8. Indian External Debt a. External Commercial Borrowing b. Sovereign Bonds c. India’s External Debt Scenario d. Impact of BREXIT on India’s External Debt e. India’s foreign exchange reserves and comparison with other countries 9. Miscellaneous 9.1. New Model Indian Bilateral Investment Treaty 9.2. Indian Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2015 -2020 9.3. Relevance of WTO in Present Day Order 9.4. Important International Trade Agreements and Relevant Regional Global Significant for India 9.5. East Asian Crisis 1997 9.6. Recession of 2008 and India 9.7. Various Duties 9.8. Masala Bonds 9.9. Trade Deficit in India 9.10. Foreign Direct Investment, FII, FPI 9.11. Gaps Between MoUs and FDI 9.12. Reforms in FDI 9.14. FDI in Retail – Case in point 10. Previous Years GS Mains Questions 1. Examine the causes of rupee depreciation and its impact on the Indian economy. Also discuss the steps taken by the Government and RBI to stem its slide.Answer:Impact of rupee depreciation:Steps taken up by RBI and Government: ♤ Related Issues Benefits of the amendments:11. Previous Years UPSC Mains Questions Contents 1. Introduction 2. Development Planning 2.1. Nature and Objectives of Planning 2.2. The Nehru-Mahalanobis Development Strategy 2.3. Agrarian Reconstruction 2.4. Role of the State 2.5. Analysis 3. Economic Crisis – 1960s 3.1. Shifts from Early Development Strategy 4. Economic Crisis – Early 1990s 5. Need for Economic Reforms 5.1. Weaknesses of the Pre-1991 Policies 5.2. Major Foreign Exchange Crisis 5.3. Conditionalities Imposed by IMF and World Bank 5.4. Fall of USSR (Union of Soviet Socialist Republics)6. Economic Reforms a) Macroeconomic stabilization measures b) Structural Reform Measures 7. Liberalisation, Privatisation and Globalisation 7.1. Policy of Liberalisation of Indian Economy 7.2. The Policy of Privatisation 7.3. Policy of Globalisation 8. Effect of Reforms on Indian Economy 9. Assessment of Reforms 10. Previous Years GS Mains Questions 1. "Public debates in India often reflect either an uncritical faith in market (market mania) or a blind opposition to it (market phobia). However, there is a deep complementarity between market efficiency and state action.” Comment on the Answer:2. How has the process of liberalization, which has otherwise led to high economic growth, affected the employment rate and the nature of employment in India?Answer:3. Dismantling of administered price mechanism for fuels is being deemed as a significant piece of economic reform. Analyse. Also, discuss how the recently introduced dynamic fuel pricing can prove to be beneficial for both the OMCs as well as consumers.Answer:Its benefits for consumers Steps taken by India to improve its EODB Index ranking on the 10 parameters:Utility of EODB ranking and entrepreneurial environment in India 11. Previous Years UPSC Mains Questions INDUSTRIAL POLICY: CHANGES AND THEIR EFFECTS ON INDUSTRIAL GROWTH Contents 1. Introduction 2. Evolution of Indian Industry 2.1. The Pre-Reform Regime 2.2. Beginning of Reforms in the 1980s 2.3. New Industrial Policy, 1991 3. Initiatives Taken by the Government for Industrial Development 3.1. Disinvestment 3.2. Ease of Doing Business in India 3.3. E- Biz Project 3.4. Make in India Initiative 3.5. National Manufacturing Policy, 2011 3.6. Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC)3.7. Steps Taken for Promotion and Development of MSMEs 4. Previous Years GS Mains Questions 1. Indian manufacturing is lagging in the face of stiff competition from other developing economies in Asia and elsewhere, both in domestic as well as global markets. What are the main reasons that can be attributed for this scenario? Suggest few remedies for the same.Answer:2. “There is a myth that small firms create the most jobs in an economy. The fact is that small firms that grow big create the jobs". In context of the Indian economy what are the factors that prevent firms that start small from growing bigger. What progress has India made in this respect and what other measures are required?Answer:3. While India has made great strides in removing the barriers to the entry of firms, talent and technology, less progress has been made in relation to exit. In this context, discuss the causes of and costs associated with impeded exit in India.Answer:Causes of impeded exit in India:MSME related schemes and impact on Make in India: ♤ Providing more credit to MSME sector, especially in the rural areas ♤ Promoting entrepreneurship ♤ Quality upgradation for world class competitiveness and leveraging technology ♤ Ensuring Ease of Doing Business o Reform in labor laws.5. Previous Years UPSC Mains Questions LAND REFORMS IN INDIA Contents 1. Introduction 2. Need for Land Reforms in India 3. Objectives of Land Reforms in India 4. Historical Background 5. Land Reforms in India 5.1. Legal Framework for Land Reforms 5.2. Measures undertaken for Land Reforms 6. Land Acquisition in India 6.1. The Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013 6.2. The Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement (Second Amendment) Bill, 2015 7. Analysis of Land Reform Measures 8. Future of Land Reforms 9. Suggestions for the Future 10. Previous Years GS Mains Questions 1. The most appropriate way to counter the ills in the practice of tenancy in rural India is to legalise it. Discuss.Answer:2. The scope of Land reforms needs to be widened beyond the mere activity of redistribution of land and fixing land ceilings to a systemic restructuring that undertakes reforms in the sector of energy and water. Discuss.Answer:3. "Contract farming with the government playing facilitator and umpire can be beneficial to farmers". In this context, critically analyse the scope and utility of contract farming in India.Answer:4. Highlight the role of institutional farm credit mechanisms in facilitating the process of land reforms in India. How can cooperative societies bring a faster change in this respect?Answer:5. Explaining the rationale behind ceiling on agricultural land holdings, discuss whether land ceiling has stifled agricultural growth in India.Answer: ♤ Arguements in Favour: ♤ Arguements Against:Implementation of land reforms Achievements Answer:Need for tenancy reforms:Roadblocks in the way Expected benefits after tenancy reforms:11. Previous Years UPSC Mains Questions Contents 1. Introduction 2. Relation between Infrastructure & Economic Development 3. Roads and Road Transport 4. Railways 5. Civil Aviation 6. Ports and Shipping 7. Energy 8. Power 9. Renewable Energy 10. Telecommunications 11. Kelkar Committee Report: Revisiting & Revitalizing the PPP Model of Infrastructure Development 12. Previous Years GS Mains Questions 13. Previous Years UPSC Mains Questions INVESTMENT MODELS Contents 1. Models Used in the Planning Process 1.1. Harrod – Domar Growth Model 1.2. Mahalanobis Strategy of Economic Growth 1.3. Planning Model Adopted in India 2. Infrastructure Investment Models 2.1. Financing of Infrastructure: Need, Issue and Challenges 2.2. Issues in Infrastructure Financing 2.3. Measures Taken by the Government 2.4. Public-Private Partnership (PPP) in Infrastructure 2.5. EPC MODEL 2.6. Swiss Challenge Model 2.7. Hybrid Annuity Model 3. Models of Foreign Investment 3.1. Why the Need for Foreign investment?3.2. Forms of Foreign Investment 3.3. Foreign Direct Investment 3.4. Foreign Institutional Investors 3.5. Recent Initiatives to promote Foreign Investment 4. Previous Years GS Mains Questions 1. What is National Investment Fund? Discuss its salient features and changes incorporated in its recent restructuring.Answer:Restructuring:How can 3P India address these challenges?How Hybrid Annuity Model will revive private participation in large infrastructure projects:Issues in Infrastructure Financing Steps taken by the Government 5. Previous Years UPSC Mains Questions AGRICULTURAL SUBSIDIES AND MINIMUM SUPPORT PRICE Contents 1. Introduction 2. Agriculture Subsidies 2.1. Types of Agriculture Subsidies in India 2.2. Agriculture Subsidies on the basis of Mode of Payment 2.3. Issues related to Agriculture Subsidies and their Possible Resolution 2.4. Agriculture Subsidies and WTO 3. Agriculture Pricing Policies 3.1. Minimum Support Price 4. GS Mains Test Series Questions 1. The imbalance between subsidy expenditure and expenditure on public investment in agriculture call for a long-term strategic re-orientation. Analyse.Answer:2. Highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the current MSP regime. What are the changes required to strengthen it and help it achieve its stated policy objectives?Answer:3. With reference to Bali decision clearly stating that Peace clause under Agreement on Agriculture (AoA) would remain in force, until permanent solution is found, can we say that India was at least partially successful in placing ‘Food Security Box’ and ‘Development Box’ alongside ‘Green Box’? Analyze. Also, suggest some remedies to counter the adverse effects of huge Green Box subsidies offered by developed nations to their farmers.Answer:4. Agricultural subsidies are hotly contested at the WTO negotiations. What are the concerns of developing countries, especially India, vis-a-vis the attitude of developed countries on the issue? What is Special Safeguard Mechanism (SSM)? In this context, what are the reasons underlying India’s keenness on a permanent solution on public stockholding for food security?Answer:5. Excess subsidies are doubly detrimental to Indian agriculture; on one side they cause market distortion and a burden on national exchequer; on the other, they lead to environmental degradation. It is also true that Indian agriculture can’t sustain without the subsidies. Subsidies are a kind of imbroglio. Analyze.Answer:Reasons against the subsidies in agriculture 5. Past Year UPSC Questions PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM, BUFFER STOCKS AND FOOD SECURITY Contents 1. Public Distribution System in India 1.1. Objectives 1.2. Evolution and Functioning of PDS 1.3. Limitations of PDS In India 1.4. Targeted Public Distribution System 1.5. Recent PDS Reforms 1.6. Revamping of PDS 1.7. Alternatives to PDS 1.8. Universal vs. Targeted Debate 1.9. Food Corporation of India (FCI)2. Buffer Stocks 2.1. Introduction 2.2. Buffer Stock Policy of India 2.3. Critical Evaluation of Buffer Stocks in India 3. Food Security 3.1. Introduction 3.2. Qualitative and Quantitative Dimensions of Food Security 3.4. National Food Security Act, 2013 3.5. WTO and Food Security 5. Previous Year UPSC Questions ECONOMICS FOR ANIMAL REARING Contents 1. Introduction 2. Different Categories of Animals 3. Role of Livestock in Indian Economy 4. Present Status of Animal Rearing in India Production Figures 5. Challenges faced by Animal Husbandry Sector 6. Government Initiatives to Overcome the Challenges Blue Revolution 6.2. National Livestock Mission 6.3. National Mission on Bovine Productivity (NMBP)6.4. National Program for Bovine Breeding and Dairy Development (NPBB&DD)6.5. Dairy Entrepreneurship Development Scheme 6.6. National Dairy Plan 6.7. National Mission on Protein Supplement 7. Pink Revolution ♤ Cost of production of meat is much lower in India. Also, India is geographically well placed in terms of export to the consuming nations 8. Fisheries 8.1. Challenges Faced by the Fisheries Sector 8.2. Blue Revolution– Neel Kranti Mission 8.3. National Policy on Marine Fishery, 2017 9. Operation Flood Success Criticism 10. Need of a Second White Revolution to Overcome Supply Side & Demand Side Challenges Supply-Side Challenges:Demand-Side Challenges:11. Previous Year GS Mains Test Series Questions 1. Animal rearing is a key livelihood and risk mitigation strategy for tribals and small and marginal farmers, particularly across the rainfed regions of India. Substantiate. Also, discuss some strategies to realize the potential of this sector.Answer:2. In spite of having the world’s largest livestock population in India, the potential of animal rearing remains underutilized. In this context, discuss the challenges faced by the meat and poultry sector and suggest measures for accelerated and sustained growth for this sector.Way Forward Dairy Sector:Way Forward:Meat and Poultry Sector:The Way Forward:Nutrition: Fodder and Feed Challenges:The Way Forward:Livestock Health:Challenges:The Way Forward:Fisheries Sector:Challenges:The Way Forward:TECHNOLOGY MISSIONS Contents 1. Introduction 2. Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH)The restructured NBM strives:3. National Mission on Agriculture Extension and Technology (NMAET)1. Sub Mission on Agriculture Extension (SMAE):2. Sub Mission on Seed and Planting Material (SMSP):4. National Mission on Oilseeds and Oil Palm (NMOOP)5. National Saffron Mission ♤ Saffron Mission comes under the umbrella of Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) now.7. Technology Mission on Coconut 8. Technology Mission on Oilseeds, Pulses and Maize (TMOP)9. Jute Technology Mission 10. Technology Mission on Cotton (TMC)11. Sugar Technology Mission 12. National Mission on Bio Diesel ♤ The target of 20% bio fuel blending has been set to be achieved by 2017 which is yet to be achieved. ♤ This scheme was delinked from Central Government support in 2015 after 14th Finance Commission devolved more funds to States.14. National Food Security Mission ♤ In NFSM during 2016-17, new initiatives to enhance production and productivity has been adopted such as free of cost distribution of seed mini kits of newer varieties of pulses, creation of seed hubs, bio fertilisers and bio agent labs, technological demonstration by KVKs etc.15. National Mission on Medicinal Plants 16. National Mission on Micro-Irrigation ♤ The same is now implemented as “Per Drop More Crop” component under PMKSY from 18. Green Revolution – Krishonnati Yojana 19. Previous Year GS Mains Test Series Questions 1. Enumerate some of the technology missions launched by Government of India and assess their impact on Indian Agriculture. What are the aims and objectives of National Mission on Agricultural Extension and Technology (NMAET)?2014-426 2. Explain the role of agricultural extension in boosting agricultural productivity. Also, discuss in brief the importance of National Mission on Agricultural Extension & Technology.Answer:MAJOR CROPS & CROPPING PATTERN Contents 1. Cropping Pattern 1.1. Cropping Systems 1.3. Factors Affecting the Cropping Pattern 2. Major Crops in India 3.1. Evolution 3.2. Categories of Crops in India 3.3. Cropping Patterns in India 3.4. Major Agricultural Regions or Zones of India 4. Previous Years GS Mains Questions 1. India has seen significant progress towards increasing production, yield levels and crop diversification in last three decades. Still, the agricultural productivity in India is among the lowest in the world. In this context, analyse the reasons for low productivity and suggest some measures to improve the same.Answer:2. Food grain constitutes 64 percent of the gross cropped area (GCA), although it accounts for less than 25 percent of the total value of output of agriculture and allied activities. Give reasons for this existing imbalance in the current cropping pattern of food grains in India and steps needed to correct such an imbalance.Answer:Reasons of imbalance in Crop Pattern:Various steps taken by government ♤ Economic Factors:Problems with current cropping pattern:1. Physical factors 2. Soil type 3. Irrigation facilities 4. Availability of Inputs 5. Government Policies 6. Economic and behavioral motivation 7. Institutional factors 8. Yield (tonnes/ha.) of a crop 5. Previous Years UPSC Mains Questions DIFFERENT TYPES OF IRRIGATION AND IRRIGATION SYSTEM STORAGE Contents 1. Introduction 2. Need for Irrigation 3. Different Types of Irrigation System 3.1. Irrigation System Based on Source 3.2. Different Types of Irrigation Systems Based on Delivery Technique 4. Classification of Irrigation Projects/Schemes The major and medium irrigation projects are further classified as:5. Some Types of Storage Irrigation Systems 1. Dams 2. Spillways and energy dissipators 3. Sluices and outlets 6. Some Schemes Related with Irrigation Systems 6.1. Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY)6.2. Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahaabhiyan (KUSUM)7. Related Terms 8. Previous Years GS Mains Questions 1. Evaluate the type of irrigation systems in India and related problems due to faulty practices? Suggest a road map to improve the situation.Answer:2. What are various types of irrigation systems in India? Explain the benefits of micro- irrigation over the conventional irrigation systems. Also discuss the bottlenecks in the adoption of this technology.Answer:Benefits of micro irrigation systems Bottlenecks in adoption Way Forward 9. Previous Years UPSC Mains Questions Contents 1. Food Processing Industry What is Processed Food Items under the purview of Food Processing Industries in India *NIC – National Industries Classification Significance of Linkages Existing Challenges in Establishing Robust Linkages 4. Scope and Significance of the Food Processing Sector in India 5. Potential of Processed Food Sector in India 6. Factors Responsible for Success of Food Processing Sector in India ♤ Integrated Supply Chain and Scale of Operations ♤ Processing Technology ♤ Increasing Penetration in Domestic Markets ♤ Competitive Pricing ♤ Brand Competitiveness ♤ Product Innovation 7. India’s Strengths in the Food Processing Sector 8. A Brief SWOT Analysis of the Food Processing Industry in India 9.1. Food Safety and Standard Act, 2006 9.2. Infrastructure Development in the Food Processing Sector 9.3. Challenges that still remain despite Government Initiatives 10. Suggestions and Way Forward Policy initiatives to plug supply side and infrastructure bottlenecks Streamlining the regulatory structure Change in mindset - Orienting stakeholders towards ‘demand and profit driven production'11. Previous Year GS Mains Test Series Questions 1. “Despite continuous efforts and initiatives of the Government to provide the required stimulus to the food processing sector, processing activity is still at a nascent stage in India with low penetration”. In the above context, examine the challenges ailing the food processing sector in India.Answer:2. Explain the backward and forward linkages across the supply chain in the Food Processing Sector. Also discuss their importance in ensuring the success of Supply Chain Management in the Food Processing Industry of India.Answer:3. Food processing industry needs a fillip in the form of better logistics, access to credit, technology indigenisation and implementation of food safety laws. Discuss.Answer:Access to credit Technology Indigenisation Implementation of Food Safety Laws Impediments faced by Food Processing industry ♤ Supply side bottlenecks: ♤ Infrastructure bottlenecks: ♤ Deficiencies in the regulatory environment:The National Mission on Food Processing E-TECHNOLOGY IN THE AID OF FARMERS Contents 1. Introduction 2. How can e-technology benefit farmers local language.3. Drivers of E-technology in Agriculture 4. Schemes Related to E-technology to Aid Farmers 4.1. National e-Governance Plan in Agriculture (NeGP-A)4.2. Information Technology Vision 2020 4.3. Kisaan SMS Portal 4.4. Agrimarket App 4.5. Crop Insurance Mobile App 4.6. e-NAM 4.7. Seednet 4.8. DACNET 4.9. AGMARKNET 4.10. Kisan Call Centres (KCC)4.11. AGRISNET 4.12. Green SIM 4.13. Facebook for Farmers and Extension Workers 4.14. E-choupal 4.15. SasyaSree 4.16. mkrishi 4.17. Weather based Information regarding natural calamities disseminated to farmers under different programmes.5. Challenges in E-agriculture 6. Way Forward Enhancing Rural Access Education and Generating Awareness Market chains Research and Innovation 7. Miscellaneous 7.1. Digital India Program 8. Previous Years GS Mains Questions 1. Information Technology has a huge role to play in making agriculture a sustainable activity even for smallholder farmers by providing them with necessary information at every stage of farming at the right time. Discuss.2. E-technology has a crucial role in increasing the productivity of agriculture and allied activities in India. Explain. Bring out the major constraints in utilizing e-technology in the Indian agricultural sector.Answer:3. Information and Communications Technology (ICT) has the potential to revitalise the agriculture sector in India. Discuss the initiative taken by the government in this regard along with highlighting the bottlenecks in its implementation. What measures are required to remove these bottlenecks?Answer:Problems faced by the sector:9. Previous Years UPSC Mains Questions INDIAN ECONOMY AND ISSUES RELATING TO MOBILIZATION OF RESOURCES Contents 1. Introduction 2. Sources of Financial Resources of Government 3. Transfer of Resources from Center to States Recent Changes Impacting Transfer of Resources 4. Issues in Mobilization of Resources ♤ Widespread income tax evasion as evident by the fact that only 1.7% of the population paid income tax in 2015.-16.5. Steps taken by the Government 5.1. Suggestions to Improve Mobilization of Resources 6. Panchayat’s Finance 6.1. Suggestions to Increase Revenue of Panchayats 7. Urban Local Bodies’ Finances 7.1. Suggestions to Increase Revenue of Urban Local Bodies 8. Previous Years GS Mains Questions 1. Explain the role played by banks for mobilization of resources in India. Approach:Answer:2. In recent years, savings rate in the Indian economy has witnessed a consistent decline. What are the factors responsible for this trend? How has the composition of savings changed in the last few years? Suggest measures to improve and better channelize household savings.Answer:3. What do you understand by Green Finance? Explain its importance and discuss the issues related to use of Green Finance in the context of India.Answer:4. As the recently released data shows, a narrow tax base remains a major concern in India. What are the possible reasons for such a scenario? In this context, also examine the government efforts to address the issue.Answer:Reasons:9. Previous Years UPSC Mains Questions STORAGE TRANSPORT AND MARKETING OF AGRICULTURAL PRODUCE AND ISSUES AND RELATED CONSTRAINTS Contents 1. Storage and Warehousing 1.1. Types of Storages 1.2. Improved Grain Storage Structures 1.3. Warehousing 1.4. Cold Storage 1.5. National Policy on Handling, Storage and Transportation of Foodgrains 1.6. Integrated Cold Chain Availability Platform 1.7. Issues with Storage 1.8. Way Forward 2. Transport 2.1. Procurement and Distribution of Foodgrains 3. Agriculture Marketing 3.1. Significance of Agriculture Marketing 3.2. Structure of Agricultural Marketing in India 3.3. Regulation of Agricultural Marketing 3.4. Agricultural Produce Marketing Committee (APMC)3.5. Model APMC Act, 2003 3.6. Model Agricultural Produce and Livestock Marketing (Promotion & Facilitation) Act, 2017 3.7. Problems facing Agriculture Marketing in India 3.8. Recent Government Measures to improve Agricultural Marketing in India 4. Way Forward V. Take fruits and vegetables out of APMC Act.5. Miscellaneous Topics 5.1. National Agriculture Market (NAM)5.2. Contract Farming 5.3. Agricultural Price Policy 6. Previous Years GS Mains Questions 1. “Transportation plays an important role in agricultural efficiency and production”.2. One of the principal aims of improving agricultural marketing is to make agriculture more viable for the small farmers in India. In the above context, comment on the strengths and weaknesses of Cooperative and Contract farming in India.Answer:3. Reviving the Farm Income Insurance Scheme could be the best tool for marginal farmers to fight falling prices of agricultural products in an increasingly globalized marketplace. Explain.Answer:4. Most rural poor are excluded from the ambit of the formal financial system, which raises their dependence on informal sources as well as exposure to financial distress. In this context, explain why formal sector lending, especially to farmers, is so limited. Also suggest some steps that need to be taken to increase access to formal credit in rural areas.2016-2-763 Answer:Reasons for limited formal nature of credit to farmers ♤ A part of credit under priority lending and interest subvention scheme being diverted to agribusiness, input dealers etc.Steps required to be taken Reasons for the low per capita availability ♤ Rationalising buffer stocks 7. Previous Years UPSC Mains Questions 1. What is Inclusive Growth?According to OECD ‘Inclusive growth is an economic growth that “creates opportunity for all segments of the population and distributes the dividends of increased prosperity, both in monetary and non-monetary terms, fairly across society”.2. Dimensions of Inclusive Growth 4. What are the Challenges to Inclusive Growth?5. Potential for Inclusive Growth in India 6. Agriculture and Inclusive Growth o Soil Health Card (SHC) scheme 7. Measures for Inclusive Growth o Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act Scheme (MGNREGA)o Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (Accident Insurance)At 70, what India needs to do next is clear: democratize productivity through inclusive growth to finally reach its full economic potential.1. Global Overview of Financial Inclusion Few steps towards Financial Inclusion:Global Financial Inclusion numbers:Global commitment to financial inclusion:Countries that have achieved the most progress toward financial inclusion have:2. Financial Inclusion in India Financial Exclusion The Global Findex Report: Financial Inclusion in India Significance of Financial Inclusion Household Access to Financial Services Progress of Financial Inclusion in India RBI Annual Report: 2016-17 Approaches to Financial Inclusion in India Approaches to Financial Inclusion in India ♤ Bank led approach: ♤ Regulatory Approach: ♤ Technology Based Approach: ♤ Knowledge Based Approach:Financial Tripod 4. Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY)What is this?Significance Achievements ♤ Helped banking sector ♤ Helped in inclusive growth Challenges Way forward 5. Financial Inclusion through Digital Payment Global Findex Report, 2018: India’s performance in Financial Inclusion 7. Way Forward: Achieving True Financial Inclusion UNEMPLOYMENT Contents 1. Work and Employment Definition of ‘formal’ worker Organized versus Unorganized Advantages of formalization Downsides of formalization How should we go about it?2. Unemployment The case of Jobless growth Improving Employment Data 3. Relationship between Unemployment and Inflation Rate 4. Potential Sectors for Employment Generation POVERTY & INEQUALITY Contents 1. Poverty Other Ways of Categorizing the Poor-Poverty Estimation in Pre-independent India Poverty Estimation in Independent India About Multidimensional Poverty Index India specific Findings o India’s MPI value reduced from 0.283 in 2005-06 to 0.123 in 2015-16.Limitations of MPI Economic Reasons Historical Reasons Social Reasons Government Policies Miscellaneous Reasons Major areas of concern which prevent successful implementation of these programs are-1.9.1. Nobel Prize in Economics 2. Inequality A. Gini Coefficient/ Gini Index Shortcomings of Gini Coefficients B. Atkinson’s inequality measure (or Atkinson’s index)C. Hoover index (also known as the Robin Hood index, Schutz index or Pietra ratio)D. Theil index and General Entropy (GE) measures A. Decile dispersion ratio (or inter-decile ratio)B. Palma Ratio C. 20/20 Ratio inequality existing in India-Inequality in World 2.6.1. Inequality and Economic Growth 2.6.2. Inequality and Poverty 3. Previous Years UPSC Mains Questions 4. Previous Years GS Mains Questions 1. The idea of Universal Basic income has gained appeal in recent months. Enumerating the challenges in its implementation, discuss whether it can be a potent tool to reduce leakages in the system and address inequality in the economy.Answer:Challenges in its implementation Impact of economic reform on poverty:Issues with poverty measurement Way forward Shortcomings:Shortcomings:Steps to make programs more effective: ♤ The declining share of small loans (less than 2 lakh).Reasons for limited formal nature of credit to farmers could also be due to rising costs of cultivation, inflationary pressures, and more people moving out of farming ♤ A part of credit under priority lending and interest subvention scheme being diverted to agribusiness, input dealers etc.Steps required to be taken Advantages Role of JAM Challenges in implementation First mile Middle mile Last mile Way forward Financial Inclusion and Inclusive growth Challenges in achieving Financial Inclusion Business correspondent Model:Bank led Model:Economic Growth and Income Inequality:Examining steps taken by India to reduce Income inequality:CAPITAL MARKET Contents 1. Introduction 2. Capital Markets vis-a-vis Commercial Banks 3. Characteristics of Capital Markets 4. Significance of Capital Markets 5. Capital Market Participants 6. Capital Market Instruments 7. Indian Capital Market 8. SEBI and Regulations of the Capital Market 9. Challenges in Regulation of Capital Market 10. Performance of Indian Capital Markets – Recent Scenario 11. Outlook For 2019 12. Way Forward 13. Miscellaneous 13.1.1. Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE)13.1.2. National Stock Exchange (NSE)13.1.3. The Over The Counter Exchange of India (OTCEI)13.1.4. Regional Stock Exchanges 14. Depository Receipt Concept Significance Working of Depository Receipts (DRs)Types Example Benefits of IDRs 15. Derivatives Types of derivatives Commodity exchange Difference between Commodity and Financial derivatives 16. Mutual Funds (MFs)Concept Benefits of investing in Mutual Funds Risks involved in Mutual Funds Net Asset Value (NAV)Types of Mutual Funds 17. Exchange Traded Fund (ETF)Concept Importance Structure Disadvantages Bharat 22 ETF 18. Corporate Bonds Concept Valuation of Corporate Bonds 19. Commercial Papers Concept Reason for introduction Denominations and maturity period Types of investors Rating requirements 20. Participatory-Notes Concept Working Pros and cons of P-notes P-note regulation in India Example 21. Previous Years GS Mains Questions 1. The National Spot Exchange Ltd. crisis has been in news recently. Discuss the crisis, its causes and suggest a way forward.Answer:2. What are Offshore Rupee Bonds? Giving examples, discuss their benefits with regards to mobilisation of resources for domestic sector. Also, comment on their role in internationalisation of Indian Rupee.FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS Contents 1. World Trade Organisation (WTO)1. Trade without discrimination 1.5.1. General Agreements on Trade in Services (GATS)1.5.2. TRIPS 1.5.3. TRIMS 1.5.4. Agreement on agriculture 1.5.5. Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures Agreement or SPS 1.5.6. The Technical Barriers to Trade Agreement (TBT)1.6.1. Uruguay Round 1.6.2. Singapore ministerial meet 1.6.3. Doha Ministerial Meet 1.6.4. Bali Package 1.6.5. Nairobi Ministerial Conference 1.6.6. Bruno Aires conference 2. IMF 2.1.1. Purpose 2.1.2. IMF Governance 2.1.3. IMF Finances 2.1.3.1. Multiple role of Quotas 2.1.3.2. What are Special Drawing Rights (SDR)?2.1.3.3. 15th General Review of quotas 2.1.3.4. How it lends?2.2.1. Achievement 2.2.2. Criticism 3. World Bank 4. Previous Years GS Mains Questions 1. According to a recent WTO agreement, Least Developed Countries need not comply with IPR protection for pharmaceutical patents till 2021. Explain how these countries can use this opportunity to promote access to drugs, vaccines and diagnostics?Answer:2. Even within the multilateral format of WTO the FTA route has served India well. Comment. How can India effectively deal with the challenges posed by the new mega regional agreements such as TPP?Answer:3. Agricultural subsidies are hotly contested at the WTO negotiations. What are the concerns of developing countries, especially India, vis-a-vis the attitude of developed countries on the issue? What is Special Safeguard Mechanism (SSM)? In this context, what are the reasons underlying India’s keenness on a permanent solution on public stockholding for food security?Answer: