[MISSION 2024] Insights SECURE : Daily UPSC Mains Answer Writing Practice: 29 September 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. Bhagat Singh was not just a revolutionary but also a political thinker who advocated rationalism, armed revolution, and the creation of a more just and equitable society. Elaborate. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Indian Express

Why the question:

The article discusses five key aspects of Bhagat Singh’s life and contributions. It provides insights into his role in India’s struggle for independence, his commitment to non-violence, his involvement in the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA), his hunger strike in prison, and his legacy as a freedom fighter.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about how the philosophy and nature of revolution evolved under Bhagat Singh and its essential dimensions.

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 a brief about the ideology of Bhagat Singh.

Body:

Mention how the ideology evolved. From the belief in violence and heroic action towards national liberation and then the building of a new socialist society.

Mention the features of the new revolution they believed in. Preventing exploitation of all forms, Freedom, justice, ending communalism, scientific temper etc. Mention the various approaches taken by him to achieve the above goals.

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing about the legacy of Bhagat Singh.

Topic: Post-independence consolidation and reorganization within the country.

2. Dr. M.S. Swaminathan made a significant contribution to modern India, playing a crucial role in the success of the Green Revolution, which effectively mitigated food shortages and enhanced agricultural productivity. Discuss. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Easy

Reference: The Hindu , Insights on India

Why the question:

MS Swaminathan, legendary agricultural scientist and father of India’s ‘Green Revolution,’ died at the age of 98 in Chennai on Thursday.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about green revolution in India and contributions of Dr M.S. Swaminathan.

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 of introduction of HYV in India in the face of acute food crisis leading to the green revolution.

Body:

In the first part, write about the pros and cons of the green revolution. The HYV technology increased agricultural output manifold, increase in yield of crops, fast adoption, modern equipment, self-sufficiency etc.

Next part, write about the contributions of Dr M.S. Swaminathan – scientist, researcher and academic but also as a visionary administrator.

Conclusion:

Conclude by summarising.

General Studies – 2

Topic: Structure, organization and functioning of the Executive and the Judiciary—Ministries and Departments of the Government; pressure groups and formal/informal associations and their role in the Polity.

3. The role of the president as a defender of the constitution is a significant aspect of a democratic system of government. Discuss. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Easy

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 (revision).

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the role of President of India in the Indian executive.

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 a brief about president as the head of the Indian state.

Body:

First, write about the role of the president as the defender of the constitution.

Next, discuss how he is a titular head – He is the nominal head of the government but the real power lies with the Prime Minister. Discuss article 53, 74, 75 etc.

Next, write about where President’s powers and does not act as a rubber stamp. For Example -Veto powers of president like pocket veto, suspensive veto etc.

Conclusion:

Conclude by summarising.

Topic: Structure, organization and functioning of the Executive and the Judiciary—Ministries and Departments of the Government;

4. Critics argue that the Collegium system lacks transparency in the selection and appointment of judges. Over the years, there have been calls for reforming the judicial appointment process to make it more transparent, accountable, and inclusive. Examine. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Easy

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 (revision).

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the process of selection of SC and HC and evolution of the process of the appointment of Judges to the SC and the reforms that are needed to the existing collegium system.

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 giving context of collegium system.

Body:

Frist, show evolution of appointment process. Mention, in brief, the three judges’ cases and NJAC act, 2014.

Next, write about the reasons which call for reforms to the existing collegium system. Opaqueness, lack of accountability, lack of representation from weaker sections, slow pace of appointments and lack of public faith etc.

Suggest reforms to overcome the above issues that are affecting the collegium system.

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing a way forward.

Topic: Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora.

5.  As ASEAN seeks to maintain economic and political stability in the region, it also faces pressure from external powers, particularly China, which has a significant influence on its member states. Examine. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Tough

Reference: Indian Express , Insights on India

Why the question:

The article discusses the challenges and dilemmas faced by ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) in managing its relationship with China.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the issues within ASEAN and complexities of ASEAN’s engagement with China.

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 giving context.

Body:

First, bring out the importance of geographical proximity of the ASEAN countries and its strategic, security and economic implications in the region.

Next, write about the relationship of ASEAN with China – need for ASEAN to strike a balance between its economic interests and the preservation of its sovereignty and regional security, underscore complexities of ASEAN’s engagement with China and the importance of ASEAN’s unity and strategic autonomy in addressing these challenges.

Conclusion:

Conclude by summarising with a balanced opinion.

General Studies – 3

Topic: Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, robotics, Nano-technology, biotechnology and issues relating to intellectual property rights.

6. Striking a balance between the benefits and potential risks of generative Artificial intelligence (AI) is essential for its responsible development and deployment. State your opinion on the need for regulating generative AI. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: The Hindu

Why the question:

The article discusses the question of whether generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) should be regulated.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about generative AI, changes introduced by it and opportunities and threats posed by it and need for its regulation.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction: 

Begin by defining generative AI.

Body:

First, write about the changes introduced by generative AI as chatbot which has brought in new aspects to conversational AI.

Next, write about the advantages it brings in various domains such as – education, journalism, search engines, art etc.

Next, write about the limitations of generative AI and adverse effect it can cause in the existing industry. Write about the need for its regulation for an ethical and effective use of generative AI.

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing a way forward.

General Studies – 4

Topic: Case Study

7. In a vibrant town surrounded by rolling hills and picturesque landscapes, you found yourself leading a transformative highway expansion project. This ambitious endeavor demanded the relocation of an ancient place of reverence, a cornerstone of your community’s heritage. As an IPS Officer dedicated to maintaining law and order, you took charge of this complex task.

The place of reverence held profound cultural significance for your town’s people. Adorned with intricate designs and a serene courtyard, it had stood as a symbol of your community’s identity for generations. However, the proposed highway expansion offered a promise of economic growth, with the potential to attract businesses, tourism, and job opportunities.

As plans took shape, opposition surged through your community. Guided by a respected community figure who held fervent beliefs about the site, strong religious sentiments began to rise. For this figure and their followers, the relocation of the revered site wasn’t merely an infrastructural decision—it was a profound test of faith. Protests were organized, slogans were chanted, and signs were held high, all in an unwavering determination to protect the cherished place of reverence at any cost.

You found yourself walking a delicate tightrope. On one hand, the benefits of the highway expansion for your town’s overall growth were clear. On the other hand, the intense emotions tied to the site were undeniable. With your expertise and impartial perspective, you believed a middle ground was possible.

1. 1. 1. What are the ethical dilemmas in front of you?
      2. What are the options available to you?
      3. Critically analyse the above-mentioned actions?
      4. What course of will you take?

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