[MISSION 2024] Insights SECURE : Daily UPSC Mains Answer Writing Practice: 21 August 2023

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General Studies – 1


 

Topic: static syllabus

1. The Indus Valley Civilization left a significant legacy and represents one of the earliest urban civilizations in the world. Discuss the key features of Indus Valley Civilisation. (150 words).

Difficulty level: Easy

Reference: Insights on India

Why the question:

The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 1 and mentioned as part of Mission-2024 Secure timetable (revision).

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the features of Indus Valley Civilisation.

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: 

Start by giving an overview of its geographical extent and timeframe

Body:

First, write the about the features of Harappan Civilisation – Agriculture, Urban Planning and Infrastructure, Trade and Economy, Writing System and Artifacts, Social Organization and Governance and Religion and Rituals etc.

Conclusion:

Conclude by summarising.

 

Topic: Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of Art Forms, literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times.

2. The concept of Dhamma, as propounded by Emperor Ashoka, played a crucial role in shaping his reign and had a significant impact on ancient India. Explain. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: TN History – Class 11th Textbook (New Edition)

Why the question:

The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 1 and mentioned as part of Mission-2024 Secure timetable (revision).

Key Demand of the question:

To write about Dhamma, its features and measures taken to spread.

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 by defining Dhamma.

Body:

First, mention about the various components of Dhamma as propounded by Ashoka. The set of do’s and don’t that were part of the Dhamma.

Next, write about the measures taken by Ashoka to spread Dhamma across the subcontinent and the world.

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing the legacy of dhamma.

 

Topic: Social empowerment, communalism, regionalism & secularism.

3. The outbursts of caste-based violence against the poor and vulnerable reflect the deep-rooted biases and prejudices ingrained within society. Analyse. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: The Hindu

Why the question:

The article discusses a recent caste-based attack in Nanguneri, Tamil Nadu, highlighting the failure of hope in addressing deeply ingrained casteism.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the how casteism leads to violence and its impact.

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: 

Start by giving context.

Body:

First, discuss the reasons contributing to caste-based violence – tensions, grievances, or power dynamics tied to caste identities culminate in violent acts against those who are less privileged or economically disadvantaged within these systems.

Next, explain how in Indian societal setup caste a form of social stratification leads to discrimination, exploitation, intolerance and leads to violence. Cite examples to substantiate your points.

Next, discuss the impact of caste-based violence on Indian society; impact on social fabric, economy, polity etc.

Conclusion:

Suggest way forward for eradicating casteism in India.

 


General Studies – 2


 

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

4. The process of awarding the death penalty and its sentencing is a topic that warrants careful consideration and reflection. Over time, discussions have emerged regarding the efficacy and fairness of capital punishment. Examine. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Tough

Reference: Live Mint

Why the question:

The article argues for the abolition of the death penalty, stating that its foundational justifications have weakened over time.

Key Demand of the question: 

To write about the reforms needed in awarding and sentencing of capital punishment.

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: 

Start giving the awarding of capital punishment in ‘rarest of rare’ case.

Body:

First, write about the various developments regarding capital punishment over the years – Bachan Singh vs State of Punjab, context death penalty.

Next, write about the various lacunae in the awarding of death penalty in Indian criminal justice.

Next, suggest reforms based on recent SC judgement and various recommendations of commissions.

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing a way forward.

 


General Studies – 3


 

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

5. India has made commendable progress in infrastructure development, but challenges persist. To continue this momentum, the country needs to focus on addressing funding gaps, regulatory hurdles, and sustainability concerns while ensuring equitable access to the benefits of improved infrastructure. Discuss. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Live MintInsights on India

Why the question:

The article discusses India’s efforts to mitigate risks in infrastructure development. It highlights that the Indian government has taken steps to reduce the various challenges associated with infrastructure projects, such as delays, financial uncertainties, and policy changes.

Key Demand of the question: 

To write about the progress made in infrastructure, challenges and areas for improvement.

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 giving context.

Body:

First, Write the about the progress made in developing infrastructure in the country and major initiatives taken for it and its achievements.

Next, write about the various limitations of the above – funding, slow paced development, environmental challenges etc.

Next, write about the steps that are needed for increased investment in infrastructure to support economic growth and improve the quality of life.

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing a way forward.

 


General Studies – 4


 

Topic: Contributions of moral thinkers and philosophers from India and the world to the concepts of morality;

6. The universalizability of moral principles and the emphasis on reason as the foundation of ethics are key features of Kant’s moral philosophy. Discuss. (150 words)

Difficulty Level: Tough

Why the question:

The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 4 and part of ‘Philosophical Mondays’ in Mission-2024 Secure.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about Kant’s Universal moral law.

Directive:

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

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Write a writing about deontology of Kant.

Body:

In detail, explain the moral absolutism and use examples to substantiate you points.

Next, write a critique of moral absolutism.

Conclusion:

Conclude the answer by summarising.

 

Topic: Aptitude and foundational values for Civil Service, integrity, impartiality and nonpartisanship, objectivity, dedication to public service, empathy, tolerance and compassion towards the weaker-sections.

7. Certain ethical attributes are considered essential for civil servants to effectively carry out their duties and maintain public trust. Elaborate. (150 Words)

Difficulty Level: Moderate

Why the question:

The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 4 and part of ‘Philosophical Mondays’ in Mission-2024 Secure.

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.

Key Demand of the question: To write about most important ethical attributes of civil servants and ways to inculcate them.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Begin by mentioning the role of cardinal ethical values of civil servants as per you.

Body:

First, list down the ethical values of civil servants and justification behind their need.

Next, write about how these ethical values be inculcate among the civil servants so that they remain ethical and efficient.

Conclusion:

Conclude by summarising.


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