[MISSION 2024] Insights SECURE : Daily UPSC Mains Answer Writing Practice: 6 October 2023

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General Studies – 1

Topic: Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc.

1. Discuss the factors that cause earthquakes. Why is Japan more prone to earthquakes? How has Japan adapted to it? (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: The Hindu , Insights on India

Why the question:

On October 6, Japan’s Izu Islands experienced a magnitude 6.1 earthquake at a depth of 10 km, according to the European Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC).

Key Demand of the question:

To write about causes of earthquakes and reasons how Japan is prone to it and adaptation of Japan in that regard.

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 defining an Earthquake.

Body:

In first part, write about the various natural as well as anthropogenic causes that cause earthquakes.

Next, give a brief about how Japan is more prone to earthquakes than the others. Account for reasons for the same.

Next, write about how Japan has adapted to it.

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing about the importance of preparedness to deal with earthquakes.

Topic: Social empowerment, communalism, regionalism & secularism.

2. When people prioritize their religious, caste or ethnic identity above their national identity, it can create rifts and tensions among different communities undermining national unity. Examine. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Easy

Reference: The Hindu

Why the question:

The article discusses the concept of national unity from a three-dimensional perspective. It highlights the importance of emotional, intellectual, and physical aspects in fostering a sense of unity and belonging among the citizens of a nation.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about factors responsible for the growth of communal tendencies and its impact on national unity and our society.

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 communalism.

Body:

First, present the case of Communalism in India on the basis of religious, caste or ethnic; Discuss the major factors that contributed towards the emergence and growth of communalism in modern India. Present the current situation.

Next, write about the impact of the above on national unity and society.

Next, present measures to deal with the above.

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing a way forward.

General Studies – 2

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

3. The ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine have raised concerns about their potential impact on India-Russia relations, the historical ties and diversified approach of India in its foreign policy could help manage these challenges. Critically analyse. (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 need to have a change in India-Russia dynamic relations due to recent geopolitical developments.

Directive word: 

Critically analyze – 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: 

Introduction: 

Begin by giving context of ‘all weather’ friendship between India and Russia.

Body:

In the first part, Highlight the strength of the relationship – Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership, cold war era friendship, the long history, defence partnership, nuclear power plants etc.

Next, bring out the issues in the relationship by dividing them into geopolitical, geostrategic and at bilateral level – Ukraine Issue, Russia-Pakistan, Russia-China, and USA-India, Changes in Afghanistan and issues emanating from them.

Discuss how should India and Russia navigate the tides moving forward.

Conclusion:

Conclude by commenting on their current nature of evergreen friendship.

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

4. The Indian diaspora includes a vast pool of skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and business leaders settled across the globe. Engaging with this talent can lead to knowledge exchange, investment, and economic growth. Analyse. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

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 significance of Indian diaspora.

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: 

Start by giving a statistic related to Indian diaspora abroad.

Body:

First, write in detail about the importance of diaspora- boost the economy by attracting foreign investment and facilitating knowledge transfer. Additionally, it highlights that engaging with the diaspora would enhance India’s soft power by promoting its cultural and intellectual contributions abroad. Cite examples and statistics to substantiate.

Next, in detail, write about the issues faced by the Indian diaspora and cite examples of statistic to substantiate.

Next, write the need to have a coherent policy towards Indian diaspora and its components.

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing a way forward.

General Studies – 3

Topic: Disaster and disaster management.

5. The risk of fire incidents in urban areas has indeed increased over the years, and the rising cost of fire losses is growing at a faster rate than the measures put in place to control them. Examine. Suggest steps to control fire incidents and prevent loss of life and property. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Indian Express , Insights on India

Why the question:

A fire incident occurred in a building in Goregaon, Mumbai, resulting in several casualties. Seven people lost their lives, and many others sustained injuries.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the reasons for fire incidents and measures needed to control such ones.

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 statistic regarding rising instances of fire accidents.

Body:

First, write about the reasons for the increasing fire hazard incidents – mention the part of lackadaisical safety measures as well ineffective implementation of exist fire safety norms.

Next, write about the measures that are needed to overcome the above and promote fire safety and prevent losses due to fire hazard.

Conclusion:

Conclude with a way forward.

Topic: Challenges to Internal Security through Communication Networks, Role of Media and Social Networking Sites in Internal Security Challenges.

6. While internet shutdowns may be considered a tool for maintaining order and security, the negative consequences on rights, the economy, education, and healthcare is significant. Critically examine. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Tough

Reference: Indian Express

Why the question:

The article discusses the impact of an internet shutdown in Manipur amidst a conflict situation.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about internet shutdowns in India, its need and necessity etc.

Directive word: 

Critically examine – When asked to ‘Examine’, we have to look into 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. When ‘critically’ is suffixed or prefixed to a directive, one needs to look at the good and bad of the topic and give a fair judgment.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction: 

Begin by giving context.

Body:

First, write about the need of an internet shutdown – they are necessary to maintain law and order and ensure national security, recent trends show a rise in shutdown instances, particularly in regions like Jammu and Kashmir.

Next, write about the negative impact of internet shutdowns on rights, economy, education, and healthcare etc.

Next, write about the steps that needed to address the above issue.

Conclusion:

Conclude with a way forward.

General Studies – 4

Topic: Case Study

7. Siddu is the dedicated and principled Principal of an esteemed college known for its strong emphasis on academics and ethics. However, the college’s reputation takes a severe hit when a tragic incident unfolds within its walls.

College, known for its rigorous academics and emphasis on diversity, is shaken when a bright first-year male student from the SC/ST community tragically takes his own life due to the trauma of severe ragging by his seniors. The student had attempted to reach out to the Anti-Ragging Committee for help, but the committee’s head brushed off his concerns, advising him to “man up.”

The incident sparks outrage within the student body and the community. The student’s father, devastated by his son’s death, demands justice. However, the situation becomes even more complex when it’s revealed that one of the accused seniors is the son of a powerful local MLA. Pressure mounts on Siddu to handle the situation discreetly and protect the influential student from legal consequences.

The police arrest four of the accused seniors, leaving out the MLA’s son, the fifth student. Public outcry ensues, with media outlets and social media platforms demanding transparency and equal treatment for all involved. As the news spreads, college’s reputation is tarnished, and the institution becomes a focal point for discussions on ragging, discrimination, and justice.

1. 1. 1. What are the options available to Siddu?
      2. Critically analyse the above-mentioned actions?
      3. What course of action should Siddu Choose as the principal?
      4. How should Siddu deal with head of the Anti-Ragging committee?
      5. Analyse the causes behind the evil of ragging? How can it be ended?

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