[MISSION 2023] Insights SECURE : Daily UPSC Mains Answer Writing Practice: 22 March 2023

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General Studies – 1


 

Topic: geographical features and their location-changes in critical geographical features (including water-bodies and ice-caps) and in flora and fauna and the effects of such changes.

1. Groundwater plays an important role in providing water supply for various purposes, including domestic, agricultural, and industrial. However, the overexploitation of groundwater and other factors pose a threat to its sustainability. Evaluate. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Down to Earth , Insights on India

Why the question:

Over the last decade, groundwater plunged by 0.59 m from 6.27 metres below ground level (mbgl) to 6.86 mbgl. According to the latest Central Groundwater Board report, in 2013 the occurrence of fluoride in groundwater was as high as 4.95 milligrams per litre. This is almost four times higher than the permissible limit of fluoride in drinking water as prescribed by the World Health Organization.

Key Demand of the question:

To write importance of ground water, the limitations in the present approach of its utilisation and changes required to it.

Directive word: 

Evaluate – When you are asked to evaluate, you have to pass a sound judgement about the truth of the given statement in the question or the topic based on evidence.  You must appraise the worth of the statement in question. There is scope for forming an opinion here.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction: 

Begin by giving statistic related to the status of ground water in the county.

Body:

First, write about the importance of groundwater.

Next, write about the issues in the present approach towards utilisation of ground water – Overexploitation of groundwater and intensive irrigation in major canal commands has posed serious problems for groundwater managers in India. Depletion of water tables, saltwater encroachment, drying of aquifers, groundwater pollution, water logging and salinity, etc. are major consequences of overexploitation and intensive irrigation.

Next, write about the changes that are needed to be taken in the new approach in order to ensure sustainable use of groundwater.

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing a way forward.

 

Topic: Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc.

2. Extreme heat waves as climate change worsens could adversely impact our economic output unless we adopt mitigative measures. Examine. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Tough

Reference: Live MintInsights on India

Why the question:

The heatwave that rippled across India earlier this month had not just left us sweltering, but also sparked fears that the winter crop could wilt because of rising temperatures.

Directive word:

Examine – When asked to ‘Examine’, we must investigate the topic (content words) in detail, inspect it, investigate it and establish the key facts and issues related to the topic in question. While doing so we should explain why these facts and issues are important and their implications.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Briefly introduce the issue of increasing heatwaves in India.

Body:

In the first part of the body, examine the impact of heatwaves – high temperatures and humidity can lead to heat exhaustion, dehydration, and other health. Use examples and statistics to support your argument.

In the next part, discuss the measures that can be taken to mitigate the impact of heatwaves – discuss the role of the government, employers, and workers in addressing the impact of heatwaves etc.

Conclusion:

Conclude with a way forward.


General Studies – 2


 

Topic: India and its neighborhood- relations.

3. The India-Japan relationship is facing challenges due to the changing global geopolitical scenario. Analyse the challenges and suggest measures to address them. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: The HinduInsights on India

Why the question:

The article highlights the challenges in the India-Japan relationship and the need for both countries to address them.

Key Demand of the question:

To analyse the challenges facing the India-Japan relationship and suggest measures to address them.

Directive word:

Analyse – When asked to analyse, you must examine methodically the structure or nature of the topic by separating it into component parts and present them in a summary.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Start with a brief overview of the India-Japan relationship and the recent developments that have impacted it.

Body:

First, write about the challenges in the India-Japan relationship, such as the changing geopolitical scenario, China’s increasing assertiveness in the region, the Quad’s emergence, and the impact of the pandemic on the global economy.

Next, suggest measures to address these challenges – deepen their economic ties and work together to address the challenges posed by China’s assertiveness in the region., promote a free and open Indo-Pacific., cooperation in areas such as healthcare, vaccines, and pharmaceuticals etc.

Conclusion:

Conclude by emphasizing the importance of the India-Japan relationship and the need for both countries to address the challenges they are facing.


General Studies – 3


 

Topic: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment

4. Wetlands are highly diverse ecosystems that provide various benefits to the environment and society. Protecting and restoring wetlands is essential for conservation efforts globally. Elucidate. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Easy

Reference: Insights on India

Why the question:

The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 3 and mentioned as part of Mission-2023 Secure timetable.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the importance of wetland ecosystem and need to protect them.

Directive word:

Elucidate – Give a detailed account as to how and why it occurred, or what is the context. You must be defining key terms wherever appropriate and substantiate with relevant associated facts.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction: 

Begin by defining a wetland and its types.

Body:

Write about the various functions performed by a wetland- water-related ecosystem services, productive areas for plant life and animals, major habitat for most of the world’s waterbirds and key habitat for migratory species, important source of food and high recreational, historical, scientific, and cultural values.

Next, write about the major threats faced by wetlands and steps that are needed protect and conserve them.

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing a way forward.

 

Topic: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment

5. In India, mangroves serve as important habitats for marine life and provide critical ecosystem services but are becoming increasingly vulnerable due to ecological fragility and climate change. Analyse. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Insights on India

Why the question:

The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 3 and mentioned as part of Mission-2023 Secure timetable.

Key Demand of the question:

To explain the importance of mangroves and to bring out the various threats faced by them.

Directive:

Analyse – When asked to analyse, you must examine methodically the structure or nature of the topic by separating it into component parts and present them in a summary.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Begin the answer by briefly writing about mangroves and their ecosystem.

Body:

You can draw simple and illustrative of map showing important mangroves.

Write about the role of mangroves as the first line of defense against erosion and flooding. Also mention about the other ecological benefits of mangroves as well as its unique flora and fauna.

Next, write about the various threats that mangroves are facing which is making them ecologically fragile and climatically vulnerable such as Coastal development, clearing for agriculture, excessive Aquaculture &Salt Production, River changes: Dams and irrigation, Destruction of coral reefs, Pollution and Climate change etc. Cite necessary examples, facts and figures to substantiate your point.

Conclusion:

Write a way forward to protect the Mangrove ecosystem of India.


General Studies – 4


 

Topic: Human Values – lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders, reformers and administrators;

6. What does this quote means to you? (150 words)

“Compassion is not a relationship between the healer and the wounded. It’s a relationship between equals. Only when we know our own darkness well can we be present with the darkness of others. Compassion becomes real when we recognize our shared humanity.” – Pema Chodron

Difficulty level: Moderate

Why the question:

The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 4 and part of ‘Quotes Wednesdays’ in Mission-2023 Secure.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Begin by explaining the literal meaning of the quote and the context in which it was said.

Body:

Write about the concept of compassion and its significance in personal and professional life. Discuss how compassion helps in building strong relationships, fostering empathy, improving communication, and resolving conflicts. Cite examples to substantiate.

Conclusion:

Summarise by highlighting the importance of compassion in promoting positive values and creating a more harmonious society.

 

Topic: Human Values – lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders, reformers and administrators;

7. What does this quote means to you? (150 words)

“The values we live by are worth more when we pass them on.”  – Anonymous

Difficulty level: Easy

Why the question:

The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 4 and part of ‘Quotes Wednesdays’ in Mission-2023 Secure.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Begin by explaining the literal meaning of the quote and the importance of passing on values to others.

Body:

Write about the significance of values in personal and professional life. Discuss how values such as honesty, integrity, empathy, and respect help in building strong relationships, fostering teamwork, and promoting a positive work culture. Cite examples to substantiate.

Conclusion:

Summarise by highlighting the importance of passing on values to the next generation, as they are the building blocks for a better future.


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