GS Paper 1
Q1. What geological factors contribute to the land subsidence phenomenon in Joshi math, Uttarakhand? Suggest ways to mitigate its impact. (15M)
Introduction
Joshimath, a town located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand has been in news off late as it has been declared a landslide-subsidence zone. According to the Mishra Commission report (1976), the first instance of subsidence in Joshimath was reported way back in 1976 and the town is –located on the site of ancient landslides covered with thick layer of overburden material.
Body:
Geological characteristics of Joshimath that contribute to its susceptibility to land subsidence:
- Tectonic Setting: Joshimath is situated in a seismically active region. It is located near the convergence of two major tectonic plates, the Indian Plate and the Eurasian Plate. This tectonic activity can cause the crust to experience stress and deformation, leading to potential subsidence.
- Steep Topography: The region around Joshimath is characterized by steep slopes and rugged terrain. Steep slopes are prone to instability, as gravitational forces act on the materials, increasing the likelihood of slope failure and land subsidence.
- Geology: According to the Uttarakhand State Disaster Management Authority (USDMA), Joshimath falls in Zone V of the Seismic Zonation Map and has witnessed several earthquakes of magnitude of less than 5 on the Richter scale. Joshimath being on a fault line makes it highly vulnerable to sinking because of tectonic activity.
- Rock types: The Mishra Committee Report states that Joshimath is situated on a sand and stone deposit. A majority of the town has been constructed on the debris of landslides, leading to smooth and eroded rocks and loose soil on the surface. These slopes can be destabilised even by slight triggers.
- River movements: Undercutting by Alaknanda and Dhauliganga river currents is also contributing to landslides in the region. According to the latest satellite data, mountain streams have expanded their channels and changed course, thereby inducing more slope instability in an already fragile belt.
Human factors further impact its vulnerability
- Unplanned construction: The increase in infrastructure development, such as buildings, roads, and bridges, can alter the natural drainage patterns and interfere with the stability of slopes.
- g. Hydroelectric (HE) schemes have been sanctioned around Joshimath and Tapovan, including the Vishnugad HE Project and a tunnel boring machine (TBM) was employed for excavating the tunnel for the project.
- Also, most of the buildings have been constructed without proper studies about the underlying soil due to rise in tourism activities in the region.
- Groundwater Extraction: Excessive pumping of groundwater is a significant human factor that affects land subsidence in many regions. In Joshimath, as in other areas, groundwater extraction for various purposes, including domestic, agricultural, and industrial needs, can lead to subsidence.
- Drainage issue: Moreover, the lack of a proper drainage system might have also contributed to the sinking of the area. Experts say that unplanned and unauthorised construction has led to the blocking of the natural flow of water, which eventually results in frequent landslides.
Measure to mitigate the crisis
- Balancing developmental needs: There is need to balance development needs of the region with the protection of the environment. Development is necessary but not at the cost of local environment or population. Ensuring sustainability should be the top priority.
- Structural Engineering Measures: Incorporate appropriate engineering techniques in the design and construction of buildings and infrastructure. This includes measures such as deep foundation systems, flexible construction materials, and appropriate slope stabilization methods to mitigate the impact of subsidence.
- Regulation of Groundwater Extraction: Implement regulations and guidelines for groundwater extraction to ensure sustainable use. Monitor and control the extraction rates to prevent excessive drawdown and associated subsidence.
- Mishra Committee Recommendations should be implemented for all development projects. It includes –
- No activity should be undertaken on unstable slopes unless structural stability can be ensured.
- restriction on heavy construction in the region.
- Extensive plantation work be done in the area, particularly between Marwari and Joshimath, to conserve soil and water resources.
- Roads should be metalled and free of scuppers, which drain water from the road surface etc.
Conclusion
The Joshimath Crisis has highlighted the detrimental effects of uncontrolled development in geologically unstable and environmentally sensitive regions. The occurrence of multiple crises in the area, such as the Kedarnath disaster in 2013 and the Chamoli incident in 2021, underscores the need to re-evaluate the current development model. It is crucial to make immediate adjustments that prioritize sustainability as the foremost concern. Failing to do so will lead to more frequent and devastating crises in the future.
Q2. Discuss how the religious and racial diversity of the north-eastern states of India shape their social dynamics? Cite examples to show how different ethnic groups coexist and interact in the region? (15M)
Introduction
The north-eastern states of India are home to numerous indigenous communities, each with their distinct cultural traditions, religious beliefs, and ethnic identities. The coexistence and interaction of these diverse groups have resulted in a unique social fabric, characterized by tolerance, mutual respect, and a celebration of differences.
Body:
Religious and racial diversity of NE states shaping their social dynamics:
- Cultural Pluralism: The religious and racial diversity in the north-eastern states promotes cultural pluralism, where various communities coexist and contribute to the region’s vibrant cultural tapestry.
- This diversity fosters an atmosphere of tolerance and mutual respect, where different religious and racial groups have the opportunity to express and practice their traditions and beliefs.
- E.g. The Hornbill Festival in Nagaland showcases the vibrant cultural heritage of various tribes, attracting visitors from different parts of the country and abroad.
- Interactions and Exchanges: Festivals, ceremonies, and cultural events provide occasions for people from different backgrounds to come together, learn from one another, and celebrate their diversity. These interactions contribute to social cohesion and promote understanding and appreciation of different cultures and religions.
- E.g. During Bihu Festival in Assam, people from different ethnic backgrounds, including the Assamese, Bodo, Karbi, and Mising communities, come together to perform traditional dances, music, and enjoy local delicacies.
- Syncretic culture of the North eastern states showcases the peaceful coexistence of different religious influences and the ability to blend traditions and beliefs harmoniously.
- For instance, despite majority population in Mizoram being follower of Christianity, they have successfully preserved their cultural heritage, incorporating elements of their traditional animistic beliefs into their Christian practices.
- Social harmony: Communities in the north-eastern states have a long history of peaceful coexistence, respecting each other’s religious practices and cultural norms. This harmony is often strengthened by shared values, such as respect for nature, community bonding, and collective decision-making.
- For example, in the state of Meghalaya, which is predominantly inhabited by the Khasi, Garo, and Jaintia tribes, people from different ethnic backgrounds coexist harmoniously.
- Identity and Autonomy: The diversity in religious and racial backgrounds has influenced the formation of distinct identities among the indigenous tribes of the north-eastern states. These identities often revolve around their unique cultural practices, folklore, and spiritual beliefs.
- Preserving and promoting these identities are seen as essential for safeguarding their autonomy and cultural heritage.
- Influence on Politics: Political parties often represent specific ethnic communities, ensuring their voices are heard in the governance process.
- For instance, the Autonomous District Councils in Meghalaya provide political representation to different tribes, fostering a sense of inclusion and shared decision-making.
Conclusion
The region’s unique blend of cultures, languages, and religious practices contributes to a tapestry of vibrant traditions and harmonious coexistence. The examples of festivals, interfaith activities, and cultural exchanges demonstrate the willingness of different ethnic groups to embrace and celebrate their differences while fostering unity and understanding.
Ethics
Syllabus: Moral and political attitudes
Q3. Can moral attitudes be objectively evaluated, or are they subjective and relative? Analyse (10M)
Introduction:
Moral attitude refers to how one feels about moral issues. Moral attitudes are frequently shaped by an individual’s moral values.
Body:
Evaluating moral attitudes mean critically examining them to determine their coherence, consistency, rationality, and adherence to ethical principles.
This helps in understanding the moral character, intentions, and actions of individuals, as well as the impact of their choices on others and society as a whole.
Should it be evaluated subjectively? Yes
- Moral Relativism: Positive attitude towards meat eating, can be evaluated as an individual choice or as an morally wrong due to animal harm.
- Cultural differences: If one has a positive attitude on ban cow slaughter, you can evaluated as a good one as per the sacred importance cows hold or a bad one considering prioritize economic considerations or individual dietary choices.
- Personal perspective: positive attituded towards death penalty in India may be justified as a just punishment for heinous crimes, or criticized as it negates the right to life.
- Utilitarian perspective: One can have a positive or negative attitude towards projects like the Narmada Dam depending on utilitarianism or ecological ethics.
Should it be objectively evaluated: Yes
- Moral realism: Many have a positive attitude towards dowry but it can never be accepted even considering cultural differences and should be evaluated on the basis of gender based discrimination.
- Universal- moral principles: Corruption though inherently accepted by society as a way to things get done. But it can never be right as it destroys integrity and honesty within society.
- Reason and logic: One cannot have a negative attitude towards reducing carbon emissions as climate change is real and would affect our future generations.
- Absolutism: One can defend honor killing through patriarchal norms, but it can never be moral as nobody has the right to kill others for their personal choices.
Conclusion:
Moral attitudes shape our understanding of right and wrong, but the question of their objective evaluation versus subjectivity remains a philosophical debate.
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