[Mission 2024] Insights SECURE SYNOPSIS: 13 February 2024

NOTE: Please remember that following ‘answers’ are NOT ‘model answers’. They are NOT synopsis too if we go by definition of the term. What we are providing is content that both meets demand of the question and at the same

General Studies – 1

Topic: Distribution of key natural resources across the world (including South Asia and the Indian sub-continent);

1.  India exhibits a wide range of soil types, from fertile alluvial soils to arid and desert soils, each with unique characteristics and its diverse soils result from the interplay of various factors. Explain. (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.

Key Demand of the question:

To explain the factors responsible for the formation of soil and its implications.

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: 

Start by mentioning about the diversity of soils in India and their profile across major regions they are found in.

Body:

Talk about reasons for diversity in the Indian soil profile and some important characteristics and crops sown in each soil briefly. A small map of major soil regions of India could be drawn for better presentation purpose.

Then in detail mention about the various factors responsible for (Pedogenesis) soil formation in India. Explain about factors such as Parent Material, Relief. Climate and Natural Vegetation. Substantiate your answer with relevant examples.

Next, write about the implications of soil diversity in India.

Conclusion:

Complete the answer by stressing on the importance of diversity in the soil profile of India.

Introduction

Soil is our prime natural and economic resource. Soils in India differ in composition and structure. In India, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has classified soils into 8 categories. Alluvial Soil, Black Cotton Soil, Red Soil, Laterite Soil, Mountainous or Forest Soils, Arid or Desert Soil, Saline and Alkaline Soil, Peaty and Marshy Soil are the categories of Indian Soil.

Body:

There are a variety of reasons for these variations in soil. Primarily soils are different from region to region due to the climatic conditions (like temperature, rainfall etc). The variety of flora and fauna of a region also has an influence on the soil profile. And there can even be a human influence.

• Alluvial Soil:
  • These are formed by the deposition of sediments by rivers.
  • They are rich in humus and very fertile. These soils are renewed every year.
  • This soil is well-drained and poorly drained with an immature profile in undulating areas. This soil has potash deficiency.
  • The colour of soil varies from light grey to ash.
  • This soil is suited for Rice, maize, wheat, sugarcane, oilseeds etc.
  • They are found in Great Northern plain, lower valleys of Narmada and Tapti and Northern Gujarat.
  • This soil is divided into Khadar Soil (New) and Bhangar Soil (Old).
• Black or Regur Soil:
  • These soils are made up of volcanic rocks and lava-flow.
  • It is concentrated over Deccan Lava Tract which includes parts of Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.
  • It consists of Lime, Iron, Magnesium and also Potash but lacks in Phosphorus, Nitrogen and Organic matter.
  • It has high water retaining capacity and good for the cotton cultivation, Tobacco, citrus fruits, castor, and linseed.
• Red Soil:
  • These are derived from weathering of ancient metamorphic rocks of Deccan Plateau.
  • The presence of ferric oxides makes the colour of soil red. The top layer of the soil is red and horizon below is yellowish.
  • Generally, these soils are deficient in phosphate, lime, magnesia, humus and nitrogen.
  • This soil is good for the cultivation of wheat, cotton, pulses, tobacco, millets, orchards, potato, and oilseeds.
  • They cover almost the whole of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Maharashtra and parts of Orissa.
• Laterite Soil:
  • These soft, when they are wet and ‘hard and cloddy’ on drying.
  • These soils are formed due to intense leaching and are well developed on the summits of hills and uplands.
  • They are commonly found in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh and hilly areas of Orissa and Assam.
  • These are poor in organic matter, nitrogen, potassium, lime and potash.
  • These iron and aluminium rich soils are suitable for the cultivation of rice, ragi, sugarcane and cashew nuts.
• Mountain Soil:
  • These soils are formed as a result of the accumulation of organic matter derived from forest growth.
  • They are found in Himalayan region and vary in different regions according to altitude.
  • Tea is grown in those areas which receive sufficient rainfall.
  • These soils are immature and dark brown in colour.
  • This soil has very low humus and it is acidic in nature.
  • The orchards, fodder, legumes are grown in this soil.
• Desert Soil:
  • This soil is deposited by wind action and mainly found in the arid and semi-arid areas like Rajasthan, West of the Aravallis, Northern Gujarat, Saurashtra, Kachchh, Western parts of Haryana and southern part of Punjab.
  • They are sandy with low organic matter.
  • It has low soluble salts and moisture with very low retaining capacity. If irrigated these soil give a high agricultural return.
  • These suitable less water requiring crops like Bajra, pulses, fodder, and guar.
  • As evaporation is in excess of rainfall, the soil has a high salt content and saline layer forms a hard crust.
• Peaty and Marshy Soils:
  • This soil originates from the areas where adequate drainage is not possible.
  • It is rich in organic matter and has high salinity.
  • They are deficient in potash and phosphate.
  • These mainly found in Sunderbans delta, Kottayam, and Alappuzha districts of Kerala, Rann of Kachchh, deltas of Mahanadi etc.
• Saline and Alkaline Soils:
  • Theses also called as Reh, Usar, Kallar, Rakar, Thur and Chopan.
  • These are mainly found in Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Maharashtra.
  • Sodium chloride and sodium sulphate are present in this soil.
  • It is suitable for leguminous crops.

Conclusion:

However, in south and central India, floods wash away rich, weathered soil, which are deposited in reservoirs or as sand bars along the river bed or in the sea. Any rehabilitation programme must consider this lost soil. Organic matter plays a key role in maintaining soil fertility by holding nitrogen and sulphur in organic forms and other essential nutrients such as potassium and calcium. The loss of organic matter is accelerated by frequent tillage. The need of the hour is to educate farmers in other regions as well about what they can do to improve the health of their nutrient-depleted soil by following practices such as crop rotation, and using organic manure boosters such as cow dung and dried leaves.

Topic: Distribution of key natural resources across the world (including South Asia and the Indian sub-continent);

2. vegetation can be broadly classified into several types, and these variations are critical for maintaining ecological balance and supporting diverse ecosystems. Examine. (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.

Key Demand of the question:

To mention in detail about different types of vegetation in India and to identify major threats to Indian vegetation.

Directive:

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 talking about how the varied climatic conditions has given rise to wide range of natural vegetation.

Body:

Mention about the different types of vegetation present in India. Draw a simple representative map of India highlighting major vegetation in India.

Explain in detail, the types of vegetation. Account for the major climatic factors responsible for it, the major features of each vegetation and major flora – fauna found there.

In the next part, bring out the how the above supports diverse ecosystems with example.

Conclusion:

Conclude by summarising.

Introduction

The natural vegetation is the endowments of nature. They grow naturally by following the climatic variables. The types of natural vegetation differ according to precipitation, soil, climate, and topography. The cultivated crops and fruits, orchards form part of vegetation, but not natural vegetation. India is bestowed with a wide range of flora and fauna. Due to a diverse geographical and climatic condition, an extensive range of natural vegetation grows in India.

Body

Types of Natural Vegetation in India

• Tropical Evergreen Rain forests
  • The Tropical Evergreen rain forests are found in the areas where precipitation is more than 200 cm.
  • They are largely found in the Northeastern regions of Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Assam, Nagaland, the Western Ghats, the Tarai areas of the Himalayas, and the Andaman groups of Islands.
  • They are also found in the hills of Khasi and Jaintia.
  • The trees in this area have intense growth.
  • The major trees found in this area are Sandal Wood, Rosewood, Garjan, Mahogany, and bamboo.
  • It has copious vegetation of all kinds – trees, shrubs, and creepers giving it a multilayered structure.
  • The elephants, monkey, lemur are the common animals found in these areas.

• Deciduous or Monsoon type of forests
  • The Deciduous forests are found on the lower slope of the Himalayas, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, Bihar, Orissa, Karnataka, Maharashtra Jharkhand, and the adjoining areas.
  • The precipitation in this area is between 100 cm and 200 cm.
  • Teak is the dominant species seen in the area.
  • Along with that Deodar, Blue Gum, Pal Ash, Sal, Sandalwood, Ebony, Arjun, Khair, and Bamboo are also seen.
  • The trees in this forest shed their leaves during dry winter and dry summer.
  • Based on the availability of water, these forests are again divided into moist and dry deciduous.
• Dry deciduous forests
  • These forests grow in areas where the precipitation is between 50 cm and 100 cm.
  • These are mainly seen in the areas of the Central Deccan plateau, Punjab, Haryana, parts of Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and South-east of Rajasthan.
• Mountain Forests/Montane Forests
  • Montane forests are those found in mountains.
  • Mountain forests differ significantly along the slopes of the mountain.
  • On the foothills of the Himalayas until a height of 1500 meters, evergreen trees like Sal, teak, and bamboo grow copiously.
  • On the higher slope, temperate conifer trees like pine, fir, and oak grow.
  • At the higher elevation of the Himalayas, rhododendrons and junipers are found.
  • Further, then these vegetation zones, alpine grasslands appear up to the snowfield.
• Tidal or Mangrove forests
  • The tidal or mangrove forests grow by the side of the coast and on the edges of the deltas
  • Ex: the deltas of the Cauvery, Krishna, Mahanadi, Godavari, and Ganga.
  • In West Bengal, these forests are known as ‘Sundarbans’.
  • The ‘Sundari’ is the most major tree in these forests.
  • The important trees of the tidal forests are Hogla, Garan, Pasur, etc.
  • This forest is an important factor in the timber industry as they provide timber and firewood.
  • Palm and coconut trees beautify the coastal strip.
• Semi-deserts and Deserts vegetations
  • This area receives rainfall of less than 50 cm.
  • Thorny bushes, acacia, and Babul are found in this vegetation region.
  • The Indian wild date is generally found here.
  • They have long roots and thick flesh.
  • The plants found in this region store water in their stem to endure during the drought.
  • These vegetation are found in parts of Gujarat’s, Punjab, and Rajasthan.

Major threats to vegetation in India:

• Encroachments:
  • Organized encroachment of forest land started as early as 1950s.
  • The direct impact of encroachment is habitat loss, besides the existence of constant threat on the forests by the fringe people.
  • In addition to their involvement directly in the illegal activities they provide shelter for the unscrupulous offenders of the plains who are engaged in all kinds of illegal activities.
• Cattle grazing:
  • Grazing by cattle in forest, although not rampant as elsewhere in the country, is identified as a threat to biodiversity.
  • The grazing not only removes the biomass and competes with wild herbivores, but also spread contagious diseases to wild animals.
  • Intensive grazing will lead to domination of a single or a few species, changing the species composition of natural vegetation.
  • Cattle grazing speeds up the invasion of weeds.
• Collection of Fire Wood:
  • Firewood collection directly poses threat in the form of removal of biomass, which affects microhabitat of flora and fauna, and indirectly leads to extensive fire and other illegal activities.
  • The proximity of settlements to the forests is the main factor, which determines the intensity of firewood collection.
  • The firewood collection leads to degradation of habitats which subsequently alters the species composition and vegetation types.
• Man-Animal Conflict:
  • A major problem associated with the conservation of wild animals especially the herbivores like elephants in India is that of crop depredation and man-slaughter.
  • Animals such as elephants, gaur, sambar, wild boar and birds like peacock, cause extensive damage to the crops.
  • This phenomenon has registered significant increase in recent years due to habitat fragmentation and degradation of natural forests and corridors.
  • Almost all the Protected Areas and Non-Protected Areas contain a large number of settlements either inside or on the periphery.
  • This leads to degradation of surrounding habitats.
  • The traditional tolerances among the people who live inside the forests or its adjacent areas are fast disappearing and people have become increasingly antagonistic.
  • As a result, the people tend to kill the animals either by poisoning or by other means, like keeping crackers in fruits, etc.
• Poaching:
  • The abundance of wild animals and high demand for their products in the clandestine, market pose threat to wild animals.
  • Herbivores like gaur, sambar, chital etc. are being poached for their meat.
  • A lot of other not so spectacular species of animals ranging from reptiles to birds as well as plants and medicinal herbs are all part of the illegal wildlife trade.
  • The major impact of poaching is species loss and change in their demography apart from extensive fire and other illicit activities.
• Illegal and unsustainable/unscientific collection of Non-Timber Forest Produce:
  • Non-Timber Forest Produce (NTFP) collection is one of the major livelihoods of the local people.
  • The NTFP consist of a variety of products, which are sources of food, fiber, manure, construction materials, cosmetics and cultural products.
  • The users of NTFP range from local individuals to multinational companies. With the development of modern techniques, the number of products and uses based on NTFP has increased by many folds.
  • This market driven utilization became instrumental in their unsustainable exploitation and resulted in degrading the natural vegetation.
• Mining:
  • Mining is also a severe threat to the biodiversity.
  • Sand mining is prevalent in the central and southern parts.
  • It is a threat to the stability of a landscape, which results in land sliding and lowering of water table.
  • The removal of habitat will endanger the survival of riparian species since most of them occupied a very narrow habitat niche.
• Mass Tourism and Pilgrimage:
  • Mass Tourism and Pilgrimage are considered to be one of the major and increasing threats to biodiversity conservation.
  • Approximately 13 million people visit forest areas annually either as pilgrims or visitors.
  • Among all the Protected Areas in India, Periyar Tiger Reserve receives a maximum number of tourists.
  • The large influx of people into the forests in short duration makes severe changes to habitat.
  • The major impact of tourism and pilgrimage is littering and over-utilization of resources such as soil erosion; fire, disturbance to wild animals for feeding, ranging etc. are also reported due to a large number of pilgrims and unruly behavior of visitors.
• Forest Fires:
  • Fire is one of the major threats facing the forests of India.
  • People who are engaged in grazing livestock often burn the area to get fresh shoots for their cattle, during lean season.
  • Apart from this, those who are involved in illicit activities such as ganja cultivation, poaching, tree felling, NTFP collection and very often the ignorant tourists and pilgrims are also responsible for big forest fires.
  • The effect of fire depends on the type of vegetation, frequency and intensity of fire and season of burning.
  • Fire causes extensive damage in deciduous forests and grasslands due to heavy fuel load.
• Illicit Felling:
• Tree felling is one of the severe threats to biodiversity conservation in the state.
• The primary effect of tree felling on bio diversity is the removal of biomass and loss of habitat for many epiphytic and arboreal species.
• Tree felling leads to soil erosion and change of the soil properties.
• In some cases, people involved in tree falling set fire to the forests.
• Invasive species:
  • These are non-indigenous or non-native plants and animals that adversely affect the habitats and bio regions they invade economically, environmentally and ecologically.
  • Examples of plant invasion include Water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) and Lantana (Lantana Camara).

Conclusion

                There is an urgent need to address these problems and Environment Management Act is a dire need along with Environment Service Cadre for better management of forests and wildlife in India.

Topic: Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the present- significant events, personalities, issues.

3. Swami Dayanand Saraswati’s contributions to Indian society during the 19th century earned him recognition as one of the “Makers of Modern India.” Explain. (250 words).

Difficulty level: Easy

Reference: The Hindu , Insights on India

Why the question:

President Droupadi Murmu on Monday said Swami Dayanand Saraswati, founder of Arya Samaj, had taken initiatives to eradicate superstitions and evil practices prevalent in Indian society during the 19th Century and showed the path of modernity and social justice.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the contributions of Dayanand Saraswati.

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: 

Start by giving context.

Body:

First, write about the contributions of Swami Dayanand Saraswati – founder of the Arya Samaj, His advocacy for the authority of the Vedas, monotheism, and social equality challenged prevailing norms, education for all, opposed caste discrimination and rituals etc.

Next, write about how his contributions played a crucial role in shaping modern India.

Conclusion:

Complete the answer by writing about his legacy.

Introduction

Dayanand Saraswati About this sound pronunciation born (12 February 1824 – 30 October 1883) was a Hindu religious leader who founded the Arya Samaj, a Hindu reform movement of the Vedic tradition. He was a profound scholar of the Vedic lore and Sanskrit language. He was the first to give the call for Swaraj as “India for Indians” – in 1876, later taken up by Lokmanya Tilak. Denouncing the idolatry and ritualistic worship prevalent in Hinduism at the time, he worked towards reviving Vedic ideologies. Subsequently, the philosopher and President of India, S. Radhakrishnan, called him one of the “makers of Modern India,” as did Sri Aurobindo.

Body

Contributions of Swami Dayananda Saraswati   

• Advocacy for the Authority of the Vedas: Swami Dayananda emphasized the primacy and authority of the Vedas, considering them as the ultimate source of knowledge. He sought to eliminate what he perceived as corruptions and distortions in Hindu practices that had strayed from the original teachings of the Vedas.
• Monotheism and Opposition to Idol Worship: Dayananda Saraswati was a staunch advocate of monotheism, asserting the existence of one supreme God. He opposed idol worship, believing it to be inconsistent with Vedic principles. His emphasis on a singular, formless God aimed to purify and simplify the Hindu religious landscape.
• Social Equality and Opposition to Caste Discrimination: One of Swami Dayananda’s most significant contributions was his vehement opposition to caste discrimination. He advocated for the idea that all individuals, regardless of their caste or social status, were equal. His teachings challenged the hierarchical caste system prevalent in society at the time.
• Education for All: Swami Dayananda believed in the transformative power of education. He emphasized the need for modern, Vedic-based education accessible to all, irrespective of caste or gender. The Arya Samaj established schools and colleges that aimed at providing education with a focus on moral values and Vedic principles.
• Opposition to Rituals and Superstitions: Dayananda Saraswati criticized various rituals and superstitious practices that had crept into Hinduism over the centuries. He advocated for a return to the simplicity and purity of Vedic rituals, rejecting customs that he considered irrational or deviant from the original Vedic teachings.
• Promotion of Swadeshi and Economic Self-Reliance: Swami Dayananda promoted the idea of Swadeshi, urging Indians to rely on locally produced goods and support indigenous industries. His emphasis on economic self-reliance aimed at fostering national pride and reducing dependence on foreign products.

Shaping modern India

• Influence on Independence Movement: While Swami Dayananda himself did not actively participate in politics, his ideas and principles influenced later leaders in the Indian independence movement. The emphasis on truth, righteousness, and justice resonated with the values of leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, who drew inspiration from Dayananda’s teachings.
• Legacy in Educational Institutions: The educational institutions established by the Arya Samaj, promoting a blend of modern education with Vedic principles, left a lasting legacy. These institutions contributed to the development of a skilled and educated workforce, shaping the intellectual landscape of modern India.
• Continued Relevance in Cultural and Religious Discourse: Swami Dayananda’s ideas continue to be influential in contemporary cultural and religious discussions. His emphasis on rationality, rejection of superstitions, and promotion of ethical living remain relevant in shaping the mindset of a modern, forward-thinking society.

Conclusion

Swami Dayananda Saraswati’s contributions played a pivotal role in shaping modern India by influencing religious thought, social reforms, education, economic policies, and the broader cultural ethos. His vision of a society rooted in Vedic principles, with an emphasis on truth, equality, and self-reliance, contributed significantly to the nation’s development and continues to resonate in various facets of contemporary Indian life.

General Studies – 2

Topic: Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes; mechanisms, laws, institutions and Bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections.

4. Prioritizing women’s equality and equity is not only a matter of social justice but also a key driver of sustainable development. Analyse the statement in the context of launch of the “Alliance for Global Good – Gender Equity and Equality” by India at the World Economic Forum (WEF). (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: The Hindu

Why the question:

At the World Economic Forum in January this year, India took the mission for gender equity several steps ahead with the launch of the ‘Alliance for Global Good – Gender Equity and Equality’.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the reasons for gender inequality in the country and steps needed for prioritising women empowerment in the context of Alliance for Global Good – Gender Equity and Equality’.

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 context of ‘Alliance for Global Good – Gender Equity and Equality’ launched by India.

Body:

First, in brief, write about the factors that have led to gender inequality in the country.

Next, write about the reasons as to why despite so many measures at addressing gender inequality that equality and equity seems to be pipe dream

Next, Mention the measures that are needed to remedy this situation.

Conclusion:

Conclude with a way forward.

Introduction

Body

Gender inequality in India

• High gender divide: The gender gap in the country has widened, with only 62.5% of it closed and especially low gender parity in political empowerment and economic participation and opportunity.
• Wage gap: Women are paid considerably less than men, with some research showing that the gender pay gap between women and men in the same jobs with equivalent qualifications can be as much as 34%. 
• Labour force participation: India, as of 2020, has the lowest female labour force participation rate among South Asian nations, with four out of five women neither working nor looking for jobs.
• High Job loss: According to Oxfam, 17 million women in India lost their jobs in April 2020, with their unemployment rate rising far higher than that among men. 
• Lesser opportunities for women: Women were found to be seven times more likely to lose their jobs during the lockdown phases, and if rendered unemployed, were 11 times more likely to remain jobless than their male counterparts.
• Uneven domestic responsibility: Potential reasons for this include the increased burden of domestic responsibilities that Indian women typically had to bear, in terms of not just household chores but extra time needed for elderly care and children’s studies, with schools shut.
  • Even pre-pandemic, a Time Use Survey conducted by the National Sample Survey Office showed that women spent nearly 4.5 hours on childcare and other care-giving responsibilities, in contrast with the meagre 0.88 hours for men. 

Factors leading to gender inequality

• Deep rooted patriarchy: The cultural baggage about women working outside the home is so strong that in most traditional Indian families, quitting work is a necessary precondition to the wedding itself.
• Childcare responsibility solely on women: One big factor is maternity. Many women who join the workforce are unable to re-join after having a child. This is because, childcare is mainly seen as a woman’s job.
• Bias at workplace against women: The landmark legislation, which entitles a woman to 26 weeks of paid maternity leave is becoming a big hurdle.
  • As per a study this increased cost for companies and this may discourage them from hiring women.
  • Mothers are also not given preference because they are seen to take less official responsibilities due to family.
• Safety: The safety in metropolitan, tier 1 and tier 2 cities is the major issue. Concerns about safety and Harassment at work site, both explicit and implicit.
• Education: Higher Education levels of women also allow them to pursue leisure and other non-work activities, all of which reduce female labour force participation.
  • When income increases, men allow Indian women to withdraw from the labour force, thereby avoiding the stigma of working (cultural factors).
• Insufficient availability of the type of jobs that women say they would like to do, such as regular part-time jobs that provide steady income and allow women to reconcile household duties with work.

Measures to remedy the situation

• Behavioural Nudge: For instance, by using taxes to incentivize fairly sharing child-care responsibilities, or by encouraging women and girls to enter traditionally male-dominated sectors such as the armed forces and information technology. , Supreme Court in India declared that women could now hold commanding positions in Army.
  • Paternity leaves for men, to share the responsibility of child rearing.
  • Incentivizing companies to employ women, and reach 50% target.
• Strong laws and policies wrt equal pay for equal work, maternity benefits are needed to promote women’s representation in economy.
• Maternity and paternity: . An amendment to the Act in 2017 increased paid maternity leave from 12 to 26 weeks. Though well-meaning, this unfortunately fortifies notions of care-giving being primarily the onus of the woman, and thus reinforces and raises the risk of women being subject to the motherhood penalty.
  • An explicit law for mandatory paternity benefits will go a long way towards equalizing gender roles and reducing employer bias
• Better work conditions: The provision and strengthening of childcare facilities for working mothers are very important.
  • The Maternity Benefit Act mandates the setting up of creche facilities for organizations with over 50 employees.
  • A better policy measure would be to provide mothers in need of childcare with a monthly allowance. This will also help mothers working from home.
• Political Representation: India has provided 33% reservation for women in the Panchayats and Local Bodies. Capacity Building and training can increase their capabilities further.

Conclusion

Gender equality is a human right which entitles all persons irrespective of their gender to live with dignity and with freedom. Gender equality is also a precondition for development and reducing of poverty. Gender shouldn’t be an unreasonable determining factor curbing the potential of women.

General Studies – 3

Topic: Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies and minimum support prices;

5. Do you think it is time for India to provide a legal backing to Minimum Support Price (MSP) in order to ensure effective income support for farmers? Examine. (150 words)

Difficulty level: Tough

Reference: Indian Express. , Insights on India

Why the question:

Protesting farmers from Punjab are set to reach the national capital in the coming days. One of their key demands is that the Centre bring in a law guaranteeing minimum support prices or MSP.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about tory the various issues in the MSP regime and how a statutory backing can help solve the issues.

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:

Start by writing about MSP, its aims and objectives.

Body:

Next, mention the limitations associated with MSP. Non-realisation of Price, Lack of procurement, only beneficial for selected crops, Lack of quality control and payment immediacy etc.

Next, write about legal guarantee for MSP and how it can help overcome the above issues.

Next, write about the systemic measures apart from MSP that are needed for farmers to get remunerative prices. Increasing procurement efficacy, increasing awareness level of farmer and considering price deficiency payments etc.

Conclusion:

Conclude with way forward.

Introduction

Minimum Support Price (MSP) is the minimum price set by the Government at which farmers can expect to sell their produce for the season. When market prices fall below the announced MSPs, procurement agencies step in to procure the crop and ‘support’ the prices. Currently, it fixes MSPs for 23 crops grown in both Kharif and Rabi seasons.

For the last few years, farmers have been agitating for a legal guarantee of Minimum Support Price (MSP) for their crop, calculated as per the Swaminathan Commission formula. Protesting farmers from Punjab are set to reach the national capital in the coming days. One of their key demands is that the Centre bring in a law guaranteeing minimum support prices or MSP.

Body

The various issues that prevent MSP from becoming a mechanism of income support for the farmers

The trouble with MSP is that while it is touted as an all-important factor for farmers promising an instant rise in their income and stability, it also has many drawbacks in implementation. This affects the price realisation of farmers, in reality for several reasons.

• Methodology: MSP covers numerous costs such as the cost of sowing (A2) and labour (FL). These considerations are controversial with suggestions that it should be based on comprehensive costs (C2), which also include land rent costs.
• Inflation: Too much of a hike on MSP either paves way for inflationary effects on the economy, with a rise in prices of food grains and vegetables, or loss to government treasury if it decides to sell at a lower price as compared to the higher MSP it bought at.
• Diverse factors: MSP is a nationwide single price policy. However, the actual costing for production varies from place to place, more severely so in areas lacking irrigation facilities and infrastructure. Thus, not all farmers have equal benefits.
• Procurement at MSP is flawed: First, procurement of wheat and paddy for meeting the requirement of the public distribution system (PDS) is undertaken largely by state governments.
  • Of the total procurement of wheat and paddy from farmers, the Food Corporation of India’s (FCI’s) share is less than 10%.
  • In the north-east and many other states, procurement operations are almost nonexistent and farmers are forced to sell below MSP.
  • As the experiences of these schemes show, the benefit of higher MSPs for kharif crops or rabi, is unlikely to be available to most farmers as the states lack adequate storage capacity, working capital and manpower for undertaking large-scale procurement of all commodities
  • The MSP-based procurement system is also dependent on middlemen, commission agents and APMC officials, which smaller farmers find difficult to get access to.
• Agri-Infrastructure: Hiking the MSP without investing in infrastructure is just a short-term play. While it does deliver immediate results, long-term developments to back-it up are also important.
• Environmental harm: It degrades the soil because of irrespective of the soil condition, some crops are preferred which have MSP over them which results in exploitation of group water resources, alkalinity, decrease in the production of the crops in long run and much harm to environment.

Rationale behind the legal guarantee for MSP

• The Centre currently announces the MSPs of 23 crops. They include 7 cereals (paddy, wheat, maize, bajra, jowar, ragi and barley), 5 pulses (chana, tur/arhar, moong, urad and masur), 7 oilseeds (rapeseed-mustard, groundnut, soyabean, sunflower, sesamum, safflower and nigerseed) and 4 commercial crops (sugarcane, cotton, copra and raw jute).
• While the MSPs technically ensure a minimum 50% return on all cultivation costs, these are largely on paper.
• In most crops grown across much of India, the prices received by farmers, especially during harvest time, are well below the officially-declared MSPs.
• And since MSPs have no statutory backing, they cannot demand these as a matter of right.
• The unions want the Modi government to enact legislation conferring mandatory status to MSP, rather than just being an indicative or desired price.

Challenges of granting statutory guarantee to MSP in India

• Statutory MSP is unsustainable: A policy paper by NITI Aayog’s agricultural economist Ramesh Chand argued against legalising MSP. It reasoned that any fixed pre-determined price will push away private traders whenever production is more than demand, and there is a price slump in the market. This, in turn, will lead to government de-facto becoming the primary buyer of most farm produce for which MSP is declared, which is unsustainable.
• Huge scope for corruption and recycling/leakage of wheat and rice, from godowns, ration shops or in transit.
• Disposal problems: While cereals and pulses can be sold through the public distribution system, disposal becomes complicated in the case of niger seed, sesamum or safflower.
• Inflation: Higher procurement cost would mean increase in prices of foodgrains, leading to inflation, which would eventually affect the poor.
• It will also impact India’s farm exports, if the MSP is higher than the prevailing rates in the international market. Farm exports account for 11% of the total exports of commodities.
• With a legally guaranteed higher MSP, India will face stiff opposition at the WTO. The US had successfully won a case against China at the WTO in 2019 which was concerned with China’s domestic support to agriculture in the form of Market Price Support (MPS).
• It would lead to a huge burden on the exchequer, since the government would have to procure all marketable surplus in the absence of private participation.
• Demands from other sectors: If the Centre makes a law to guarantee 100% procurement in all the 23 crops where MSP is announced, farmers cultivating fruits and vegetables, spices, and other crops will also demand the same.

Legal backing for MSP alone will not solve the agricultural sector woes

• Farmers face many other issues other than price, which itself is not guaranteed given the influence of politicians and cartels in mandis.
• They lack information on which crop to grow, when to sow, apply plant nutrients and which pest is attacking their crop.
• Farmers are also short of post-harvest technologies to ensure a better shelf life for their produce.
• In addition, they do not get adequate facilities to irrigate their lands, with nearly 50 per cent of the land being rain-fed and lacking ample warehouses to store their produce at the village level, besides proper roads to connect them to the mandis.
• Legal backing for the MSP could also lead to the danger of the trade keeping away from places where the law is implemented vigorously.
• For example, when Punjab said it would make MSP legal and binding, wheat traders said they would keep off the state to avoid trouble for themselves.

Conclusion

The government should shift its focus from providing only price support to farmers and focus on building better infrastructure, minimizing the gap between farmers and the market, land reforms, policy reforms to increase flow of credit to farmers, establishing food-processing industries for perishable goods, providing better irrigation facilities etc so, that agriculture emerges as a viable means of sustenance.

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

6. Why is human-wildlife conflict on the rise? Why are current strategies not fully sufficient to address human-wildlife conflict? (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Indian Express , Insights on India

Why the question:

Wayanad is on the boil after a radio-collared wild elephant chased a 47-year-old man and trampled him to death.

Key Demand of the question:

To explain the major causes for rising cases of man-animal conflict, limitations of present strategies and possible solutions for it.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction: 

Start with what you understand by Man-Animal conflicts.

Body:

First, write about the  main causes of man wildlife conflict are – The cause of human wildlife conflict was human settlement, agricultural expansion, illegal grass collection, over grazing by livestock and deforestation in national park. As a result, local communities disliked wildlife inhabiting in and around their surroundings. human population growth and expansion, habitat degradation and fragmentation, land use transformation and increasing densities of livestock grazing in protected areas are considered as major causes of man-carnivore conflicts.

Write about the various government policies and programmes in this direction and their limitations.

Conclusion:

Conclude with solutions to address the issue.

Introduction

According to data from the Union environment ministry, more than 1,608 humans were killed in human-wildlife conflict cases involving tigers, leopards, bears and elephants between 2013 and 2017. Most recently, Wayanad is on the boil after a radio-collared wild elephant chased a 47-year-old man and trampled him to death.

A deadly conflict is underway between India’s growing masses and its wildlife, confined to ever-shrinking forests and grasslands, with data showing that about one person has been killed every day for the past three years by roaming tigers or rampaging elephants.

Body

Reasons for rise in Man-Animal Conflicts

• Unbridled Development: The existing space for Tigers, Elephants and other big wild animals is shrinking due to encroachment of wildlife habitats. Unsustainable land use is the biggest problem in this regard.
  • Animals are increasingly finding their usual corridors and pathways blocked by roads, rail tracks and industries.
  • The Ken-Betwa Riverinterlinking project will submerge 100 sq. km of Panna Tiger Reserve.
• Urbanization: Urbanization and growth agendas alter landscape dynamics, which has a cascading effect on the ecological dynamics of wildlife.
  • Eg: In the area of Gwal Pahari on the Gurugram-Faridabad Road, for example, the district town and country planning department has issued change of land use permissions
  • Recent relaxations in norms toallow for a widening of highway and railway networks near these protected areas are the new threats
• Primary reason for the increasing human-animal conflicts is the presence of a large number of animals and birds outside the notified protected areas.
  • Wildlife experts estimate that 29 per cent of the tigers in India are outside the protected areas
• Poor Enforcement of laws: No buffer zone is maintained between critical wildlife habitats and human settlements.
• Climate Change and Biodiversity: Withthe food chain undergoing rapid changes and pool of species declining, the forage is decreasing for wild animals. Hence, they come in search of livestock in fringe areas of human settlements.
• Less Protected Area: Only 5% of India’s geographical area is in the protected area category. This space is not enough to have a full-fledged habitat for wild animals.
  • A territorial animal like a male tiger needs an area of 60-100 sq km. But the area allocated to an entire tiger reserve, like the Bor Tiger Reserve in Maharashtra, is around 140 sq km.
  • The territorial animals do not have enough space within reserves and their prey does not have enough fodder to thrive on.

Government Initiatives to reduce Man-Animal conflict

• A network of Protected Areas namely viz., national park, Sanctuaries, Conservation Reserves and Community Reserving covering important wildlife habitat have been created all over the country under the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 to conserve wild animals and their habitat.
• Wildlife corridors: Wildlife corridors have been developed in many parts of the country.
  • For example: In 2017, to protect elephant habitats, the Odisha government had identified 14 corridors.
  • Tiger corridor around Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserves is built.
• “Plan Bee”: Indian Railways launched ‘Plan Bee’ to prevent elephantsgetting hurt on rail tracks, thereby reducing the elephant death toll.
  • Nearly 50 buzzing amplifiers have been deployed as part of “Plan Bee” at a dozen “elephant corridors” in the vast forests of Assam, home to nearly 6,000 elephants, 20% of the country’s total.
• State governments:
  • Assistance to state government for construction of boundary walls and solar fences around the sensitive areas to prevent the wild animal attacks
  • Supplementing the state government resources for payment of ex gratia to the people for injuries and loss of life in case of wild animal attacks.
  • Encouraging state government for creation of a network of protected areas and wildlife corridors for conservation of wildlife.
• Provisions under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 empower concerned authorities take necessary steps to handle problematic wild animals.
• Standard Operating Procedures for the management of major problematic animals like tiger, elephant, leopard, rhino etc. are being used by the respective state governments
• Controlling population: In January 2018, the Environment Ministry has approved “immune-contraception” method to address man-animal conflicts.
  • The immuno-contraception is non-hormonal form of contraception. It causes production of antibodies which in turn prevents conception in animals.
  • Ministry sanctioned over Rs 10 crore for ‘immunology contraception’ of wild boars, Rhesus monkeys and elephants.

Way Forward

• Community Participation: Local volunteers should be trained to handle with human-wildlife conflicts and organize locals for immediate initial steps till the wildlife rescue team arrives
• Rescue Teams:Wild Life Rescue Teams equipped with adequate personnel, equipment and communication systems should be present in potential areas of human-animal conflict.
• Awareness campaign:
  • Hunting of prey animals, such as deer and pig, needs to stop as they form the base for growth of tiger and other carnivore populations.
• Identifying regular movements corridors of large wildlife, and adequate publicity/awareness to avoid disturbances
• Compilation of data on conflicts, reasons for such conflicts, best practices of response. Identify hotspots of conflict and keep extra vigil in such areas.
• Insurance programs for damage due to wildlife.
  • Crop insuranceshould be provided in the event of destruction by wild animals.
  • Livestock insuranceand its scope must be explored.
• Help locals in constructing barriers, and develop scaring away methods.

 Conclusion

Human life is vital and so is a thriving wildlife that sustains the ecosystem. Harmony between humans and wildlife can ensure protection of both. Conservation and Development must go hand in hand to combat man animal conflict, which in turn will lead to sustainable development.

General Studies – 4

Topic: Contributions of moral thinkers and philosophers from India and the world to the concepts of morality;

7. Socratic justice goes beyond the external application of laws; it involves an intrinsic understanding of ethical principles and a commitment to living in accordance with them. Analyse. (150 words)

Difficulty level: Tough

Reference: plato.stanford.edu

Why the question:

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

Structure of the answer:

Introduction: 

Begin by giving context regarding justice as per Socrates.

Body:

Elaborate, upon the above further that in a just state one focusses on his own rights without impinging upon the rights of the others.

Next, write about the if or not the above concept of justice addresses historical injustices. Cite examples to substantiate your point.

Conclusion:

Conclude by giving a balanced opinion.

Introduction

Socrates’ idea of justice, as presented in the works of Plato, primarily focused on individual virtue and the harmony of the soul. He believed that justice was achieved when each part of the soul performed its proper function and individuals pursued the highest good for themselves and their community.

However, modern discussions on addressing historical injustices, especially in the context of India, have evolved to encompass a much broader set of considerations that extend beyond individual virtue.

Body

India’s history is marked by various forms of historical injustices, including colonization, caste-based discrimination, religious conflicts, and economic disparities. In addressing these issues, modern discussions have taken into account the following considerations:

• Social and Economic Inequities: Unlike Socrates’ focus on individual virtue, modern discussions emphasize addressing systemic inequalities. This includes recognizing the structural factors that perpetuate disparities in education, healthcare, and economic opportunities among different groups. Initiatives such as affirmative action and social welfare programs aim to rectify these imbalances.
• Historical Context: Modern discussions take into account the historical context of injustices. Colonization, for instance, left deep scars on India’s social, economic, and cultural fabric. Recognizing this history is crucial for understanding the root causes of current disparities and for formulating effective solutions.
• Caste-Based Discrimination: The caste system has been a long-standing source of social injustice in India. Modern discussions center on dismantling the entrenched caste-based discrimination that persists despite legal efforts to eradicate it. Affirmative action policies, such as reservations in education and government jobs for historically marginalized groups, are part of these efforts.
• Religious and Communal Harmony: India’s diversity extends to its religious and cultural landscape, but it has also been the site of religious conflicts and communal tensions. Modern discussions emphasize promoting religious tolerance, understanding, and harmony to address past and present injustices related to religious discrimination and violence.
• Reparative Justice: Reparations for historical injustices are discussed in various contexts, such as addressing the economic losses suffered during colonization or compensating victims of communal violence. These discussions aim to provide redress for past wrongs and promote healing within affected communities.
• Legal and Policy Frameworks: Modern discussions often involve the development of legal and policy frameworks to address historical injustices. Land reforms, anti-discrimination laws, and initiatives to promote inclusive education are examples of strategies aimed at rectifying historical imbalances.
• Public Dialogue and Awareness: Open discussions and public awareness campaigns play a significant role in addressing historical injustices. Platforms for dialogue allow individuals and communities to share their experiences, foster empathy, and build support for corrective measures.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Socrates’ concept of justice focused on individual virtue and harmony of the soul, modern discussions on addressing historical injustices in India encompass a much broader range of considerations. These discussions acknowledge systemic inequities, historical context, and the need to address various forms of discrimination and inequality. The goal is to create a more just and inclusive society by implementing comprehensive strategies that go beyond individual virtue and extend to systemic reforms and reparative measures.

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