[MISSION 2024] Insights SECURE : Daily UPSC Mains Answer Writing Practice: 24 August 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. Bolivar’s vision extended beyond the liberation of individual countries; he aspired to create a united and independent South America. Discuss. (150 words)

Difficulty level: Easy

Reference: History of modern world by Jain & Mathur

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.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the contributions of Simon Bolivar to Latin American independence.

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 brief description of Simon Bolivar – who is known as The Liberator.

Body:

First write about the political philosophy of Simon Bolivar and that penned two political treatises—the Cartagena Manifesto and the Letter from Jamaica.

Next write about his military achievements – encouraging the people of South America to rebel against Spanish colonial rule, leading multiple expeditionary forces against the Spaniards, liberated territories etc.

Conclusion:

Conclude by summarising that his contributions earned him the epithet – The Liberator from the Latin American people.

 

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.

2. By the early twentieth century, European colonial powers had established control over most of Africa. The consequences of this colonial legacy continue to shape the social, political, and economic dynamics of many African countries today. Analyse. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: History of modern world by Jain & Mathur

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.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about colonialism and pattern in which Africa was colonised 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: 

Begin by giving context.

Body:

First, write about the Colonisation of Africa – late as 1880 only 20 per cent of Africa had come under European rule. With the spread of the Industrial Revolution to other countries of Europe rivalries increased as did the search for colonies. The emerging industrial powers looked for a place in the sun. A continent of over 28 million square km was partitioned and occupied by European powers by a combination of two strategies, treaties and conquest.

Next, write about the impact of the above.

Conclusion:

Conclude by summarising.

 


General Studies – 2


 

Topic: Parliament and State legislatures—structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these.

3. Analyse the significance of a no-confidence motion in parliamentary systems as a means to uphold democracy and ensure political stability. (150 words).

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Live MintIndian Express

Why the question:

The article highlights the importance of a floor test in parliamentary democracy, particularly in situations where the majority support of a government is being questioned.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the significance of conducting a floor test in the context of parliamentary democracy, elucidating the advantages it offers in terms of upholding democratic principles, ensuring political stability, and determining the legitimacy of a government.

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: 

Mention about the concept of a floor test in parliamentary democracy.

Body:

First, Discuss the purpose of a confidence/ non-confidence motion. Discuss the procedure and requirements for passing a non-confidence motion. Discuss the implications of a successful no-confidence motion.

Next, write about the role of above in – Upholding Democratic Principles, Ensuring Political Stability, Implications for Democratic Governance etc.

Conclusion:

Conclude by summarising.

 

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

4.  Examine the benefits of an open internet for global connectivity, information access, and the promotion of democratic values. State your opinion on net neutrality and its importance of maintaining an open and free internet as a fundamental aspect of modern society.  (250 words)

Difficulty level: Tough

Reference: Indian Express

Why the question:

With fair share discussion gaining traction in the EU and Brazil, telcos in India have again started demanding a fee from OTTs.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the importance of an open and free internet, elucidating its positive impact on global communication, access to information, and the advancement of democratic ideals.

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 net neutrality.

Body:

First, highlight the Advantages of an Open and Free Internet – free internet facilitates the free flow of information, knowledge, and cultural exchanges, contributing to global progress and understanding etc.

Next, write about the challenges and concerns related to an open and free internet, such as misinformation, cybersecurity threats, and data privacy.

Next, write about role of governments, international organizations, and tech companies in ensuring internet freedom etc.

Conclusion:

Conclude with a balanced opinion on net neutrality.

 


General Studies – 3


 

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

5. Explain the factors and key drivers that have contributed to India’s economic growth, making it the world’s third-largest economy during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s tenure. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Indian Express

Why the question:

Inaugurating the newly built International Exhibition-cum-Convention Centre (IECC), named Bharat Mandapam, in New Delhi on Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that when he took charge in 2014, India was the tenth-largest economy in the world. During his second term as PM, he said, India had become the fifth-largest economy.

Key Demand of the question:

To examine the specific factors and key drivers that have propelled India’s economic growth, leading to its position as the world’s third-largest economy.

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: 

Begin by giving context.

Body:

First, present an overview of India’s economic performance and its transformation into a major global economy. Cite statistics of key indicators to substantiate.

Next, write about the various factor responsible for the above – Structural Reforms and Policy Initiatives, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Inflows, Manufacturing and Services Sector Growth, Infrastructure Development etc.

Next, write about the challenges and potential bottlenecks that could affect India’s economic growth in the future.

Conclusion:

Conclude with a way forward.

 

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

6. Mangrove swamps are crucial ecosystems that provide numerous ecological and protective benefits. However, habitat loss due to various factors severely impacts their ability to function as natural coastal protectors. Analyse. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Easy

Reference: The HinduInsights on India

Why the question:

West Bengal which is home to about 40% of mangrove forests in India, announced the setting up of a ‘Mangrove Cell’ in the State, on the occasion of the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem.

Key Demand of the question:

To explain the importance of mangroves and to bring out the various threats faced by them.

Directive:

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 the answer by briefly writing about mangroves and their ecosystem.

Body:

You can draw simple and illustrative of map showing important mangroves.

Write about the role of mangroves as the first line of defense against erosion and flooding. Also mention about the other ecological benefits of mangroves as well as its unique flora and fauna.

Next, write about the various threats that mangroves are facing which is making them ecologically fragile and climatically vulnerable such as Coastal development, clearing for agriculture, excessive Aquaculture &Salt Production, River changes: Dams and irrigation, Destruction of coral reefs, Pollution and Climate change etc. Cite necessary examples, facts and figures to substantiate your point.

Conclusion:

Write a way forward to protect the Mangrove ecosystem of India.

 


General Studies – 4


 

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: (i) Give your explanation to the Commission and go soft on the disciplinary action. (ii) Ignore the commission and proceed firmly with the disciplinary action. (iii) 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 2014)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

In brief, mention the facts of the case

Body:

Give the major ethical issues involved along with the stakeholders. Evaluate its pros and cons of the options mentioned above.

Next, write the approach you will take.

Conclusion:

Stress on the importance of emotional intelligence and courage in such cases.


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