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[MISSION 2024] Insights SECURE : Daily UPSC Mains Answer Writing Practice: 19 September 2023

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General Studies – 1


 

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

1. The Hoysala architectural style is known for its artistic brilliance and stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Hoysala dynasty in Southern India. Comment. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference:  The Hindu

Why the question:

The Hoysala temples at Belur, Halebidu and Somanathapur in Karnataka were declared as UNESCO World Heritage Sites on September 18 in a move that will bring global recognition with prospects of increase in international tourism to these places.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the features of Hoysala architectural style and its significance.

Directive word: 

Comment– here we have to express our knowledge and understanding of the issue and form an overall opinion thereupon.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction: 

Begin by giving context.

Body:

First, write about the features of Hoysala architectural style – star-shaped platforms, triangular vimanas with staggered pyramidal structures, intricate carvings portraying various themes, a strong horizontal emphasis, lathe-turned pillars etc.

Next, write about the significance of the above.

Conclusion:

Conclude by summarising.

 

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

2. Pataliputra holds a special place in Indian history as a centre of political power, and culture, and its legacy continues to be of great significance in the study of ancient India. Elaborate. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Tough

Reference: The Print

Why the question:

The article discusses the significance of Pataliputra, the ancient capital of India during the Maurya dynasty, and highlights the recent archaeological discoveries related to it.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the significance of Pataliputra of Ancient India.

Directive word: 

Elaborate – Give a detailed account as to how and why it occurred, or what is the particular context. You must be defining key terms wherever appropriate and substantiate with relevant associated facts.

Structure of the answer:

Briefly give context of Pataliputra.

Body:

First, write about Pataliputra, also known as Patalipattan, was one of the most significant ancient cities in the Indian subcontinent.

Next, write about its significance – seat of power for empires like the Mauryas and Guptas, it played a pivotal role in shaping the political landscape of the Indian subcontinent, center of culture, learning, and religion, with institutions like Nalanda University and a profound influence on the spread of Buddhism and Jainism etc.

Conclusion:

Conclude with significance and relevance in today’s times.

 


General Studies – 2


 

Topic: India and its neighborhood- relations.

3. India and Sri Lanka must collaboratively to strengthen their ties and realize their shared objectives of development and prosperity. Comment. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Easy

Reference: Insights on Indian

Why the question:

The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 2 and mentioned as part of Mission-2024 Secure timetable.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the Indo-Lanka relations, challenges and opportunities it presents.

Directive word: 

Comment- here we must express our knowledge and understanding of the issue and form an overall opinion thereupon.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction: 

Begin by giving the context of India- Sri Lankan relations in the past and how it has changed over time.

Body:

In the first part, write about the historical bilateral ties between India and Sri Lanka.

Next, mention how India and Lanka had maintained close relations in the past. Cultural ties with India etc. Recent Sri Lankan crisis and how India helped in that situation.

Then, mention about factors that led to the difference between the two nations. China factor etc.

Conclusion:

Conclude with a way forward.

 

Topic: India and its neighborhood- relations.

4. Do you think SAARC is a defunct institution? What can India do in the current scenario to have a secure and prosperous South Asia? Critically 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 – 2 and mentioned as part of Mission-2024 Secure timetable.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the future of SAARC amidst current uncertainties and to argue for its revival.

Directive word: 

Critically 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. When ‘critically’ is suffixed or prefixed to a directive, one needs to look at the good and bad of the topic and give a balanced judgment on the topic.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction: 

Begin by giving context of SAARC and its present-day scenario.

Body:

In the first part, bring out the current uncertainties which forebode a bleak future for SAARC – Crisis in Afghanistan, Myanmar, Indo-Pak equation, Covid crisis etc.

Next, mention as to why India should take the lead in reviving SAARC. It will ensure integrated, connected, secure and prosperous South Asia, and lead economic, technological, cultural, and social development’ of the region.

Conclusion:

Conclude with a way forward and diplomatic steps needed to re-engage and revive SAARC.

 


General Studies – 3


 

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

5. Discuss the potential impact of reserving 33% of parliamentary seats for women on the status of Indian women. What are the key arguments in favor of this policy, and what challenges might it face in its implementation? (250 words)

Difficulty level: Easy

Reference: Indian Express

Why the question:

The article discusses the prospects of the Women’s Reservation Bill in India, which aims to increase the representation of women in legislative bodies.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the significance of Blockchain technology and its application.

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: 

Briefly giving context.

Body:

First, write about the pros of giving 33% reservation to women in the parliament – enhancing political representation, promoting gender-sensitive policies, and serving as a source of inspiration.

Next, write about the arguments in favour of the policy – women empowerment, addressing historic inequalities etc.

Next, write about the challenges in implementing it – lack of political will, sociocultural barriers, concerns of tokenism, the need for qualified representatives, potential backlash, and the complex issue of intersectionality etc.

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing a way forward.

 

Topic: Disaster and disaster management.

6. Flash floods are sudden and dangerous natural disasters with severe consequences. To mitigate their impact, a combination of preventive measures, early warning systems, and community preparedness is crucial, along with addressing the underlying causes, such as urbanization and climate change. Analyse. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Tough

Reference: The Hindu

Why the question:

The article discusses recent floods in the Indian state of Gujarat and the political blame game surrounding the management of Narmada river water.

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.

 


General Studies – 4


 

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.  By fostering love and contributing to the well-being of others and the community, individuals can experience a deeper sense of fulfilment and purpose. Discuss. (150 words)

Difficulty level: Easy

Why the question:

The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 4.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the devoting yourself to helping others gives your life true meaning.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction: 

Begin by giving context of what devoting to others means.

Body:

Write about the advantages and impact of devoting oneself to help others and community around you. Substantiate with examples how this selfless compassion brings about a positive change in the atmosphere.

Conclusion:

Summarise by highlighting the importance compassion.


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