[MISSION 2024] Insights SECURE : Daily UPSC Mains Answer Writing Practice: 25 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. Examine the historical significance of the American War of Independence and the American Civil War on the United States’ nation-building process and its influence on global history. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

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 historical significance and impact of the American War of Independence and the American Civil War.

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: 

Give the context of American War of Independence and the American Civil War, emphasizing their importance in shaping American history and global developments.

Body:

First, write about the impact of American War of Independence – Emergence of the United States as a sovereign nation, Nation-building, Formation of a new political system, democratic institutions, Constitution drafting etc.

Next, write about the impact of American Civil War – Post-war reconstruction period and societal changes, Global significance, Impact on international perception of the United States, abolitionism influence etc.

Conclusion:

Conclude by summarising.

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. The French Revolution was a transformative event that marked the end of the monarchy and the birth of modern republicanism, profoundly altering the course of moder world history in several significant ways. Elaborate. (250 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 impact of French Revolution on France and rest of the world.

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: 

Give the context of French Revolution of 1789 as a total revolution.

Body:

First, write about the impact of the revolution on France – Political, Economic and Social impacts in detail are to be written.

Next, write about the ways in which the revolution impacted the rest of the world in different ways. Mention its impact on India.

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing about the legacy of French revolution.

General Studies – 2

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

3. Discuss the significance of Rajasthan Gig and Platform Workers (registration and welfare) Act in empowering gig workers in the state, recognizing their contributions and improving their working conditions. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: The Hindu , Insights on India

Why the question:

The article discusses the key points and implications of Rajasthan’s proposed legislation aimed at providing social security and welfare measures for gig workers in the state.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the issues faced by gig workers, need to ensure and protect rights of gig workers.

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 the objectives of the act.

Body:

In the first talk about the ambiguity in gig economy which results in the exploitation of gig workers – lack of formal employer-employee relationship, remuneration, rigidity of working hours and the working conditions etc.

Next, write about the benefits of regulating the gig economy and steps needed to protect the rights of workers and grant them social protection and role of Rajasthan Gig and Platform Workers (registration and welfare) Act in doing.

Next, write about the issues in the above.

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing a way forward.

Topic: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.

4. There is need for a more compassionate and realistic approach to comprehending the ongoing war in Ukraine and ending it. What role can India play in this regard? Analyse. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Tough

Reference: Indian Express , Insights on India

Why the question:

The article discusses the evolving understanding of the realities of the conflict in Ukraine. It highlights how the initial romanticized notions of war have given way to a more sobering understanding of its devastating impact on human lives.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the stand of India on Russia-Ukraine war and role it can play in ending it.

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, in brief, write about the deadlock in the Ukraine conflict which has been going on since the its start and how it impacts the global multilateral order and the world economy.

Next, write about India’s pragmatic neutrality on the above issue and its outcome.

Next, write about the role India can play diplomatically towards peace efforts and de-escalation of hostilities between India and Ukraine.

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing a way forward.

General Studies – 3

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

5. Does a ban on agricultural exports help in reducing inflation and achieving food security? State your opinion in light of the recent curbs on exports of food products. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: The Hindu

Why the question:

The article discusses the government’s efforts to control rising prices and its potential impact on consumers. It highlights that despite these efforts, essential goods’ prices continue to rise, leading to concerns for the common people.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the implications of curbs on certain agricultural exports by the government and its role in reducing inflation.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction: 

Begin by giving context.

Body:

In the first part, bring out the factors as to why the recent curbs was announced.

Next, write about the implications of the curbs – on food security, on farmers, wheat prices, exports, procurement etc.

Conclusion:

Conclude with a balanced opinion.

Topic: basics of cyber security

6. India’s Cyber Security Strategy should incorporate elements that can ensure that the most dangerous cybercrimes receive heightened attention and stringent actions, while less severe ones are managed proportionately. Analyse.

Difficulty level: Tough

Reference: The Hindu

Why the question:

The article examines the role of cybercrime victims in aiding cybercriminals, often unknowingly. It discusses cases where individuals, typically from economically vulnerable backgrounds, are manipulated into participating in cybercrimes such as fraudulent financial transactions.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about India’s cyber security strategy and need for an overall strategy with more emphasis on severe threats and as well adequately addresses mild ones.

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 statistic highlighting India’s vulnerability to cybercrimes.

Body:

First, write about the India’s evolving cyber security strategy and its various components.

Next, write about the various types of cyberthreats of varying degree of vulnerability and the disadvantages associated with classifying them as one.

Next, write about measures required to counter the above in policy making and developing a strategy for various types of cybercrimes.

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing a way forward.

General Studies – 4

Topic: Case Study

7. As the food department prepares to launch a grand poverty and hunger alleviation scheme involving mass distribution of food grains to the poor, Senior IAS Officer Suresh must decide who will be his deputy to oversee the entire process, from procurement to last mile delivery. He is presented with two highly capable candidates: Salman and Shahrukh.

Salman is a seasoned officer with 10 years of service. He has prior experience from a deputation at the Food Corporation of India, making him well-versed in the logistics of food distribution. Despite having a pending vigilance case related to alleged disproportionate assets, Salman is a team player and highly respected among his peers. He is a family-oriented man with a pregnant wife and a child. His popularity stems from his ability to connect with people and inspire teamwork.

Shahrukh, on the other hand, boasts 15 years of service. He is known for his unwavering commitment to rules and regulations, a trait that has sometimes caused delays due to his meticulous approach. His dedication is evident in his willingness to work long hours, even beyond office hours and on weekends. While he is unmarried, Shahrukh’s professional rigidity sometimes clashes with colleagues, particularly his previous boss who is a friend of Suresh.

1. 1. 1. Who should Suresh choose? Why?
      2. Which is more a severe moral hazard – concerns about a person’s integrity or his poor work efficiency?
      3. How can Salman be improved to be a better officer?
      4. How can Shahrukh be improved to be a better officer?

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