[MISSION 2023] Insights SECURE : Daily UPSC Mains Answer Writing Practice: 24 May 2023

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General Studies – 1


 

Topic: Salient features of world’s physical geography.

1. The bottom relief features of the Indian Ocean showcase a rich and dynamic geological landscape. They not only contribute to the ocean’s ecological diversity but also hold potential for scientific research, resource extraction, and further exploration of this vast and captivating marine realm. Discuss. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Insights on India

Why the question:

The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 1.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the resources present in continental shelves and reasons for it as well as to trace the bottom relief of India ocean.

Directive word: 

Discuss – This is an all-encompassing directive – you must debate on paper by going through the details of the issues concerned by examining each one of them. You must give reasons for both for and against arguments.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction: 

Start by briefly mentioning about relief of the ocean floor and its divisions. 

Body:

First, mention certain figures/stats regarding the economic resources of continental shelves with examples.

Next, discuss in detail the reasons for high productivity of the continental shelves like high nutrient loads, vertical stability and shallowness etc. 

Next, trace the bottom relief features of India ocean.

Conclusion:

Conclude by summarising the overall economic importance of continental shelves. 

 

Topic: communalism, regionalism & secularism.

2. Explain the factors contributing to the communalization of society and elaborate on the actions necessary to foster unity and acceptance among individuals. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Insights on India

Why the question:

The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 1.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the causes of communalism and ways to counter it.

Directive word: 

Elaborate – 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 communalism.

Body:

First, write about the various causes behind the communalisation of the society – Divisive Politics, Economic Causes, History of Communal Riots, Politics of Appeasement etc.

Next, write in detail about various measures to counter communal tension in the society.

Finally, write about what can be done in future by government, civil society etc so as to reduce communalism.

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing a way forward.

 


General Studies – 2


 

Topic: Development processes and the development industry —the role of NGOs, SHGs, various groups and associations, donors, charities, institutional and other stakeholders.

3. Civil society in India contributes to its pluralistic nature by promoting inclusivity and advocating for social causes. These efforts provide alternatives beyond electoralism and create a more inclusive and diverse society. Analyse.  (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Indian ExpressInsights on India

Why the question:

The article argues that civil society’s active engagement is imperative for addressing societal issues, protecting human rights, and fostering pluralism in India.

Key Demand of the question: 

To write about the functions of civil society and their successes and limitations in India.

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: 

Begin by mentioning how civil society is considered as the 5th Pillar of democracy.

Body:

First, write about civil society refers to the arena of voluntary organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), community groups, and citizens actively engaged in social, cultural, and political activities outside of the state apparatus.

Next, write about these organizations and individuals play a crucial role in fostering pluralism in India by providing alternatives beyond the ritualistic game of electoralism. Substantiate using examples.

Conclusion:

Conclude by stating that good governance can be achieved through the active participation of all the stakeholders and the civil society being the lynchpin in this.

 

Topic: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.

4. By relying on electric vehicles (EVs), India can decrease its dependence on imported fossil fuels, enhancing energy security. However, the reduction in subsidies for electric two-wheelers in India is expected to hinder the mass adoption of electric vehicles (EVs). Evaluate. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Down to Earth

Why the question:

The subsidy cuts may impact the affordability of EVs for consumers, potentially slowing down the transition to cleaner and sustainable transportation.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the impact of shifting to electric vehicles on the environment, economy and also to examine the impact of reduction in subsidy for EVs.

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: 

Start by describing the electric vehicles (EV) technology vis-à-vis fossil fuel-based vehicles.

Body:

Mention the impact the EV can have on India economically in terms of reducing dependence on crude oil and reduced import bill and improved domestic energy independence.

Next, write about the environmental benefits of shift to EV – Give facts and figures relation to vehicular emission in India, the impact of it and how shifting to EV can be environmentally advantageous as well as sustainable in the long run.

Next, examine the impact of reduction of subsidy for EVs and measures needed to address it.

Conclusion:

Conclude with a way forward to ensure maximisation of potential benefits.

 


General Studies – 3


 

Topic: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc.

5. India faces numerous challenges related to energy security, environmental sustainability, and rural development. Biogas, as a renewable energy source, offers multiple benefits and solutions to address these challenges. To maximize the benefits it offers, India’s compressed biogas sector requires significant support and promotion. Discuss. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Down to EarthInsights on India

Why the question:

According to a report by ETAC (Expert Committee on Compressed Biogas), it highlights the potential of compressed biogas as a clean and sustainable fuel but emphasizes the need for a strong push to realize its benefits fully.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the role of bio gas in India’s energy transition and support needed to bio gas sector.

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 citing statistic related to bio gas sector in the country

Body:

In the first part, write about the Biogas scenario in India’s renewable sector. Cite statistic and show the potential of biogas in India’s energy transition. Write about the advantages it offers – enewable energy generation, efficient waste management, rural development, agricultural benefits, and climate change mitigation.

Next, write the major issues affecting Biogas sector and support needed for the sector.

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing a way forward.

 


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)

“The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character – that is the goal of true education.” – Martin Luther King Jr.

Difficulty level: Easy

Why the question:

The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 4 and part of ‘Quotes Wednesdays’.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction: 

Begin by explaining the literal meaning of the quote.

Body:

Elaborate upon the quote and mention the role of education in making a person ethical. Mention the ways in which education shapes up ethics. Cite examples to substantiate.

Next, write about the counter view that education can also be devoid of ethics and its consequences. Substantiate with examples.

Conclusion:

Summarise by highlighting the importance of the quote in the present day.

 

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)

“Honesty is the first chapter in the book of wisdom.” – Thomas Jefferson

Difficulty level: Moderate

Why the question:

The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 4 and part of ‘Quotes Wednesdays’.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction: 

Begin by explaining the literal meaning of the quote.

Body:

Write about being honest with oneself and how its importance in developing character. Elaborate upon how being honest with oneself results so many benefits for individual morality. Substantiate with examples.

Conclusion:

Summarise by highlighting the importance of the honesty in the present day.


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