[MISSION 2023] Insights SECURE : Daily UPSC Mains Answer Writing Practice: 5 June 2023

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General Studies – 1


 

Topic: Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the present- significant events, personalities, issues.

1. Although the uprising of 1857 proved unsuccessful, it had a profound impact on the British rule in India. The event shook the foundations of the British administration and led to significant transformations in their structure and policies. Explain. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Easy

Reference: Chapter 1- India’s Struggle for Independence by Bipan Chandra.

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 created by the revolt of 1857.

Directive word: 

Explain – Clarify the topic by giving 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: 

Start by briefly mentioning how the 1857 uprising was successfully quelled by the British.

Body:

Mention the various re-alignment policies in administration such a British crown taking over control from EIC, Military strengthening, Transfer of Power, Divide and Rule, New Policy Towards the Princess, Search for New allies etc brought by the British as a way to avoid any such future uprising.

Conclusion:

Conclude by mentioning that although the British succeeded in overpowering the Uprising, it proved to be the beginning of resistance from the people of India.

 

Topic: Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the present- significant events, personalities, issues.

2. Under colonial rule, the development of education in India underwent various phases and experienced both positive and negative impacts. Discuss. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Chapter 30 – A Brief History of Modern India by Rajiv Ahir (Spectrum Publishers)

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 evolution of education in India under the colonial rule and its impact.

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: 

Begin by mentioning the Macaulay’s minute setting the stage for introduction of education system by the British in India.

Body:

Trace the evolution of education system in British India – orientalist v/s anglicist debate, setting up of Universities, Hunter Commission report, education system during the period of Diarchy rule, evolution of primary and higher education etc. You can make use of a flow chart for better presentation.

Write about the both positive and negative impacts of introduction of modern education in India.

Conclusion:

Conclude by mentioning the contribution of modern education in rise of nationalism in India.

 


General Studies – 2


 

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

3. The imposition of the Sedition law in India has been a subject of significant controversy and debate. While the intention behind the law is to protect national security and maintain public order, it has been criticized for its potential misuse and infringement on free speech rights. Analyse. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Indian Express

Why the question:

The article provides an overview of the Law Commission’s report on the Sedition law in India. The report suggests that the sedition law should be used restrictively and proposes several recommendations for its amendment.

Key Demand of the question:

To discuss the issues related to the implementation of the Sedition law in India and address the demands for its reform.

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 context of section 124A of IPC.

Body:

In the first part, write about the objectives behind sedition law.

Next, in detail write about the various issues within the sedition law – potential misuse and infringement on freedom of speech, interpretation raises concerns, suppressing legitimate criticism and targeting of activists, journalists, and political opponents etc

Next, write about the need of sedition law in the present day. Write recommendations by law commission.

Conclusion:

Conclude by stating a balanced opinion on the issue.

 


General Studies – 3


 

Topic: Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies and minimum support prices; Public Distribution System- objectives, functioning, limitations, revamping; issues of buffer stocks and food security.

4. While India has made significant progress in achieving self-reliance in the production of pulses, it continues to rely heavily on imports for edible oil. Suggest measures to make India self-reliant in edible oil. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Indian Express

Why the question:

The article discusses India’s self-reliance in the production of pulses (legumes) while highlighting its dependence on imports for edible oil.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the reasons for achieving self sufficiency in pulses and write about the key lessons from it to make edible oil production self sufficient.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction: 

Begin by giving context.

Body:

First, cite statistics to show growth in India’s pulses and reduced import dependence. Next, write about the reasons for reduction in Import and how India achieved self-sufficiency in pulses.

Next, throw light on the current status of edible oils. Mention the issues because of which India is import dependent for edible oils.

Next, mention the measures that are needed to remedy this situation.

Conclusion:

Conclude with a way forward.

 

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

5. Foreign Portfolio Investment (FPI) is a significant route for foreign investment. FPIs have made a strong comeback after the COVID-19-induced slump. However, the recent tightening of disclosure norms by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) may pose challenges for foreign investors. Examine. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Tough

Reference: Indian Express

Why the question:

The article discusses the resurgence of foreign investors in the Indian stock market.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about FPI, its importance and increased trends in FPIs and bottlenecks for FPIs in India.

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 defining FPI. Cite statistic related to the extent of FPI in India.

Body:

In the first part, write about importance of FPI as mode of investment and its importance to the Indian economy.

Next, give context regarding the increased inflows of FPI, potential bottlenecks for it and steps that are needed to resolve them.

Conclusion:

Conclude with a way forward to ensure that withdrawal of FPI does not affect the economy.

 


General Studies – 4


 

Topic: accountability and ethical governance; strengthening of ethical and moral values in governance;

6. Government organizations often struggle with a lack of transparency and limited access to information. How can we promote openness and responsibility within these institutions? (150 words)

Difficulty level: Easy

Why the question:

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

Key Demand of the question:

To write about ways to build and maintain a culture of transparency and accountability in government organisations

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Start by defining transparency and accountability.

Body:

First. Write about how it transparency and accountability are not prioritised in government offices.

Next, with relevant examples elaborate on how an culture of accountability can be instilled – citizen charters, RTI, Reward & Recognition, Autonomy & Trust, Feedback & Coaching, communication etc.

Conclusion:

Complete the answer writing about the link between accountability and efficiency.

 

Topic: Contributions of moral thinkers and philosophers from India and world.

7. John Rawls’ theory of justice, seeks to establish principles that ensure a just and morally acceptable society (150 word)

Difficulty level: Tough

Reference: plato.stanford.edu

Why the question:

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

Key Demand of the question:

To write about Rawls’ theory of justice and its implications

Directive:

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

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Begin by giving context of Rawls’ theory of justice.

Body:

Write about the theory – It emphasizes equal basic liberties for all individuals, ensuring personal autonomy and dignity. The difference principle advocates for inequalities that benefit the least advantaged, reducing disparities and providing a safety net for the vulnerable.

Next, write about the criticism of the theory.

Conclusion:

Conclude by summarising.


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