[MISSION 2023] Insights SECURE : Daily UPSC Mains Answer Writing Practice: 2 June 2023

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General Studies – 1


 

Topic: History of the world will include events from 18th century such as industrial revolution, world wars, redrawal of national boundaries, colonization, decolonization, political philosophies like communism, capitalism, socialism etc.— their forms and effect on the society.

1. The Crimean Peninsula has indeed been a source of political turmoil in European history, particularly since the 19th century. The Crimean War (1853-1856) had a significant impact on Europe, shaping political dynamics and causing ripple effects throughout the continent. Examine. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Tough

Reference: World History by Norman Lowe.

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 impact of Crimean war.

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: 

Begin by giving context Crimean war and who its wass fought between.

Body:

First, write about regarding the turmoil in the Crimean Peninsula starting from 19th century until recent times.

 Next, write about the impact of Crimean war – Ottoman empires integrity, Russia’s waning influence over black sea, Opening up of Danube, Indirect impact on Unification of Italy, improvements in battlefield medicine.

Conclusion:

Conclude by summarising and linking it with current developments in the region.

 

Topic: population and associated issues.

2. What factors contribute to the decline in the Total Fertility Rate (TFR) of India? Evaluate the difficulties that India faces as its fertility rate decreases in a thorough manner. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Easy

Reference: Live MintInsights on India

Why the question: 

The article discusses the challenges faced by India in achieving replacement-level fertility, the disparities in Total Fertility Rates (TFRs) across different regions, and the resulting crisis of representation.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the causes of falling TFR and the challenges it poses.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction: 

Begin by giving context from the NFHS-5 data.

Body:

First, write about the factors that have contributed to declining TFR are: Higher education, increased mobility, late marriage, financial independence among women and overall prosperity.

Next, possible challenges that the falling TFR may lead to.

Conclusion:

Conclude by suggesting solutions to the challenges.

 


General Studies – 2


 

Topic: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.

3. To ensure deeper collaboration among the BRICS nations, they need to navigate the challenges posed by great power competition and diverging interests. Analyse. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Indian ExpressInsights on India

Why the question:

The article discusses the potential for the BRICS countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) to expand their collaboration and influence on the global stage.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the issues among the BRICS countries in the present day and measures needed to overcome 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: 

Begin by giving aims and objectives of BRICS.

Body:

In the first part, write about the various issues among the BRICS member countries which has brough them at a crossroad. Mention the current limitations of the BRICS bloc and hindrances to achieve its potential.

Next, mention the course corrections that are required – the role of trade and connectivity that can lead to collective economic benefits to the BRICS countries especially in the face of global economic turmoil, political consultation, deeper engagement over key areas etc.

Conclusion:

Conclude with a way forward and diplomatic steps needed to be taken in this regard.

 


General Studies – 3


 

Topic: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development and employment.

4. While National Asset Reconstruction Company Limited (NARCL) has the potential to assist banks in managing their NPA liabilities, its success will depend on various factors such as adequate capitalization, accurate asset valuation, efficient legal processes, and prudent lending practices by banks. Comment. (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.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the potential of NARCL to solve the NPA issues in India.

Directive word: 

Comment– here we must express our knowledge and understanding of the issue and form an overall opinion thereupon.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction: 

Begin by defining National Asset Reconstruction Company Limited (NARCL) and its purpose.

Body:

First, describe the structuring of the NARCL and also mention its mandate that makes it a bad bank.

Next, write about the potential of NARCL – high capital, backing of the government, reduce the burden on taxpayers, revival or reclamation of assets etc.

Next, write about its limitations – presence of private ARC’s, issues with restructuring and write off, corruption etc.

suggest need of] right incentive structure and an innovative approach in handling assets for an effective performance of NARCL.

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing a way forward.

 

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

5. Carbon credits can play a role in incentivizing emission reductions and fighting climate change, their effectiveness and impact depend on the implementation and integration within a comprehensive climate policy framework. Evaluate. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Live Mint

Why the question:

The article discusses how India can benefit from the trading of carbon credits. It highlights the potential for India to capitalize on its large renewable energy capacity and reduce its carbon emissions, thereby earning carbon credits in international markets.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about carbon market and India’s potential in using to fight climate change.

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 defining carbon market.

Body:

In the first part, in detail, write about the structure and functioning of carbon market and its brief history.

Next, write about the potential of carbon markets in reducing carbon emissions and fighting climate change. Write the ways in which it would help. Substantiate with facts and examples.

Next, write about the challenges and limitations associated with carbon markets in India. Mention ways to overcome them.

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing a way forward.

 


General Studies – 4


 

Topic: Probity in Governance: Concept of public service; Philosophical basis of governance and probity;

6. Probity plays a critical role in PPP projects by upholding ethical principles, public confidence is maintained, risks are mitigated, and the overall success and sustainability of public projects are enhanced. Discuss. (150 Words)

Difficulty level: Easy

Why the question:

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

Key Demand of the question:

To write about importance of probity in public procurement and its role in reducing corruption.

Directive:

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:

Begin by defining probity.

Body:

First, write about the need of Probity in Public Procurement and how it will affect the current challenges with respect to public projects. Cite examples to substantiate.

Next, write about the steps to ensure probity in PPP projects.

Conclusion:

Complete by writing a way forward.

 

Topic: Case Study

7. You are a no-nonsense, honest officer. You have been transferred to a remote district to head a department that is notorious for its inefficiency and callousness. You find that the main cause of the poor state of affairs is the indiscipline of a section of employees. They do not work themselves and also disrupt the workings of others. You first warned the troublemakers to mend their ways or else face disciplinary action. When the warning had little effect, you issued a show cause notice to the ringleaders. As a retaliatory measure, these troublemakers instigated a woman employee amongst them to file a complaint of sexual harassment against you with the Women’s Commission. The Commission promptly seeks your explanation. The matter is also publicized in the media to embarrass you further. Some of the options to handle this situation could be as follows:

    1. Give your explanation to the Commission and go soft on the disciplinary action.
    2. Ignore the commission and proceed firmly with the disciplinary action.
    3. Brief your higher-ups, seek directions from them and act accordingly. Suggest any other possible option(s).

Evaluate all of them and suggest the best course of action, giving your reasons for it. (250 Words) (UPSC Mains 2014)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Why the question:

The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 4.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction: 

Start with giving the facts of the case and the hindrances to honest behaviour.

Body:

One by one evaluate the different options in front of that are provided. Using logic and various ethical theories to analyse their pros and cons of each option.

Next, write the course of action which you will take in the above situations. Analyse the pros and cons of that action. If there are any cons, write about how you will overcome/deal with those. Cite reasons for taking such path.

Conclusion:

Conclude by summarising the writing about cost one has to pay for being honest.


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