[Insights Secure – 2016] UPSC Mains Questions on Current Events: 29 February 2016
Archives – Secure 2015
Archives – Secure 2016
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General Studies – 1;
Topic: Poverty and developmental issues; Social empowerment
1) Begging in India is currently a crime under the Bombay Prevention of Begging Act, 1959. Do you think it should be decriminalised? Substantiate. (200 Words)
The Hindu
General Studies – 2
Topic: Functioning of the judiciary
2) Analyse the significance of the proposal of setting up of a ‘National Court of Appeal’ to hear routine appeals in civil and criminal matters from the High Courts. (200 Words)
The Hindu
Topic: Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests
3) India’s solar power programme has come under intense scrutiny by global political and business leaders, especially given its aggressive intent and extensive trade opportunities. In this regard, recently WTO ruled against India saying India’s solar ambition is against trade rules. Critically comment on this ruling and examine the issues the ruling has given rise to. (200 Words)
The Hindu
Topic: Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate.
4) Critically comment on the selection process for the post of the UN secretary general (UNSG) and the significance of this post. (200 Words)
Livemint
Topic: Issues relating to poverty and hunger
5) Do you think the poor, through their intensive use of natural resources, are responsible for environmental degradation? Comment. (200 Words)
Business Standard
General Studies – 3
Topic: Government Budgeting.
6) Discuss some of the key legal and Constitutional aspects that form the basis of the Budget-making process. (250 Words)
Business Standard
Topic: Infrastructure – airports; Indian economy – growth and development
7) Recently, the union government proposed key civil aviation reforms. Discuss the significance of these reforms. (200 Words)
Business Standard
Topic: Disaster and disaster management
8) It is said that the world will witness pandemics in coming decades that could be disastrous to human population. What are the likely reasons that could contribute to outbreak of pandemics? How can these outbreaks be prevented? Discuss. (200 Words)
Business Standard
Topic: Effects of liberalization on the economy, changes in industrial policy and their effects on industrial growth.
9) The mobile phone industry is said to be a bright spot amidst economic gloom in India. Yet, it’s said that the increasing penetration of smartphones and mobile technology will be facing major challenges in coming days. Examine these challenges and measures needed to overcome them. (200 Words)
Business Standard
General Studies – 4
Topic:Moral and political attitudes;
10) “War is fought over futile and feudal things. War is not about ideology, no matter how artfully framed, but it’s simply about power and money and control.” Critically comment. (150 Words)
General