[MISSION 2024] Insights SECURE : Daily UPSC Mains Answer Writing Practice: 18 August 2023

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General Studies – 1

Topic: The Freedom Struggle — its various stages and important contributors/contributions from different parts of the country.

1. Revolutionary nationalism introduced a more confrontational approach to the national movement. It advocated armed resistance, political violence, and even acts of terrorism against British officials as a means to weaken colonial authority. Discuss. Also, write about the contributions of Madan Lal Dhingra toward revolutionary activities. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Easy

Reference: Indian Express , Insights on India

Why the question:

The article discusses the life and significance of Madan Lal Dhingra in Indian history.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the causes for the rise of revolutionary national movement and its contribution.               Also, contributions of Madan Lal Dhingra.

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.

Introduction: 

Start by writing about revolutionary national movement and its nature of struggle. Mention important organizations and revolutionaries.

Body:

First, write about the causes for the rise of revolutionary nationalist movement – failure of moderates, lack of progress, high handedness of British etc.

Next, outline the major contributions of the revolutionary nationalists – spreading patriotism, creating fear in the minds of British, making them grant concessions, uniting the people of India, inspiring the youth.

Next, write about the contributions of Madan Lal Dhingra towards revolutionary movement.

Conclusion:

Conclude by summarising.

Topic: Social empowerment; Role of women and women’s organization.

2. Examine the significance of combatting gender stereotypes and its potential to promote gender equality and empower women. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: The Hindu

Why the question:

The article emphasizes the importance of addressing gender stereotypes and discusses the potential of the handbook in fostering gender equality.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the importance of combatting gender stereotypes and empower women.

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: 

Introduce the concept of gender stereotypes.

Body:

First, discuss the significance of combatting gender stereotypes, emphasizing its role in breaking down barriers, enabling equal opportunities, and challenging traditional norms.

Next, write about the SC handbook to promote gender equality, addressing various aspects such as education, workforce participation, and representation in decision-making.

Next, write about how combatting gender stereotypes can empower women.

Conclusion:

Conclude by summarising.

General Studies – 2

Topic: Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes;

3. Assess the potential impact of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme for traditional workers in India, and discuss how such initiatives can contribute to preserving traditional skills and uplifting marginalized artisans. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Tough

Reference: The Hindu

Why the question:

The article sheds light on the PM Vishwakarma Scheme and its significance in supporting traditional workers, prompting a deeper examination of its potential outcomes.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the PM Vishwakarma Scheme and its potential 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 writing about aims and objectives of PM Vishwakarma Scheme.

Body:

First, write about the major features of PM Vishwakarma Scheme.

Next, write about the potential impact of the scheme on preserving traditional skills, highlighting how it can prevent the erosion of indigenous knowledge and craftsmanship.

Next, write about the role of such schemes in fostering sustainable economic growth by promoting the revival of traditional industries and enabling artisans to contribute to the economy.

Conclusion:

Conclude with a way forward.

Topic: Role of civil services in a democracy

4. Civil servants are not only responsible for implementing government policies and programs but also in upholding democracy in the country. Explain. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Indian Express

Why the question:

The article discusses how India’s economic situation is impacting the country’s trade plans and the value of the Indian rupee.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the various functions performed by the civil servants in for the effective functioning of the government and upholding democracy.

Directive:

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: 

Begin the answer by giving context of civil services as the steel frame.

Body:

Frist, write about the various functions performed by the bureaucracy – implementing public policies, maintaining public trust, ensuring continuity, managing crises etc. Cite examples and statistics to substantiate.

Next, write about role played by civil servants in upholding democracy and importance of upholding democratic values while leveraging the expertise of civil servants to achieve efficient and transparent governance.

Conclusion:

Conclude by summarising.

General Studies – 3

Topic: Disaster and disaster management.

5. Flash floods are characterized by their swift onset and high velocity, making them extremely dangerous and capable of causing significant damage to property, infrastructure, and even loss of life. Analyse (250 words)

Difficulty level: Tough

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-2024 Secure timetable.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the causes, consequences and steps needed to mitigate the impact of flash floods.

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: 

Briefly define flash floods and their characteristics

Body:

First, write about the causes of flash floods – Heavy rainfall, Steep terrain and drainage patterns, River and dam failures etc.

Next, write about the Consequences of flash floods – Loss of life and infrastructure damage, Environmental impact Economic implications etc.

Next, write about the Measures to mitigate the impact of flash floods – Early warning systems, Reforestation and watershed management, Community preparedness and awareness etc

Conclusion:

Conclude with a way forward.

Topic: Disaster and disaster management.

6. The increasing frequency of forest fires in India is a result of complex interactions between human activities, land use changes, and climatic factors. To mitigate the negative effects of forest fires, a combination of preventive measures and climate change adaptation strategies is essential. Examine. (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-2024 Secure timetable.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about causes of forest fires in India and measures need to mitigate them.

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:

Start by defining forest fires and statistic regarding rising instances of forest fires in India.

Body:

Draw a small illustrative diagram showing major forest fire prone areas.

Discuss first the reasons of forest fires; Thunderstorms are the most likely natural cause for forest fires. Slash and burn techniques etc. Write about the role of climate change in rising instances of forest fires.

Next, explain the concerns posed by it. Explain why they are difficult to control.

Next, discuss the efforts that are needed to be taken in this direction.

Conclusion:

Conclude with way forward.

General Studies – 4

Topic: Case Study

4. In the imaginary state of Veridonia, situated in a diverse region, there exists a long-standing tension between two prominent ethnic groups: the Tradanos and the Valerians. Veridonia’s current political scenario has a dominant ruling party closely associated with the Valerian community, making the Tradanos feel marginalized and oppressed. This political favoritism has fueled resentment among the Tradanos, leading to occasional clashes with the Valerians.

IPS Officer Gouri, known for her unwavering commitment to justice and upholding the law, is posted in the capital city of Veridonia, which is the epicenter of these ethnic clashes. She’s been assigned the challenging task of maintaining peace and ensuring a fair investigation into the recent escalation of violence between the two groups.

The situation escalates when an incident involving the death of a young Tradano man under suspicious circumstances ignites widespread protests and clashes. The Valerian-dominated state government is accused of turning a blind eye to the atrocities committed by its supporters during the protest, further exacerbating the tension between the communities.

As the protests intensify and international attention grows, the state government begins to exert immense pressure on Officer Gouri to downplay the atrocities committed by the Valerian group. They fear that exposing the truth could tarnish their reputation and potentially lead to a loss of political power. High-ranking officials from the government approach Gouri with veiled threats and promises of promotions if she complies.

Despite the mounting pressure, Officer Gouri is torn between her duty to uphold justice and her understanding of the political dynamics at play. She knows that covering up the atrocities will only deepen the rift between the communities and perpetuate a cycle of violence. However, she also realizes that standing up against the powerful state government could have dire consequences for her career and personal safety.

Gouri embarks on a thorough investigation, meticulously gathering evidence and testimonies from both sides of the conflict. She enlists the help of independent forensic experts and ensures that her team remains impartial throughout the process. As the evidence piles up, it becomes increasingly evident that the Valerian group was indeed responsible for several brutal acts during the protests.

When presented with the undeniable evidence, the state government intensifies its efforts to silence Gouri, threatening her with transfers to remote locations and attempting to discredit her investigation.

1. 1. 1. What are the options available to Gouri?
      2. Critically analyse the above-mentioned options?
      3. What are the ethical issues in the above case?
      4. How can you address ethnic violence across the country?

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