UPSC Mains Answer Writing Practice – Insights SECURE : 14 May 2024

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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. The Industrial Revolution in England was propelled by a confluence of factors which created an environment conducive to industrial growth, leading to profound economic, social, and technological transformations. 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 – 1.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about reasons for rise of Industrial revolution in England and its impact.

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: 

Start by defining Industrial Revolution.

Body:

In detail, write about the reasons for rise of Industrial revolution in England – Agricultural changes, Population boom, Economic innovations, new ideas and a scientific viewpoint, Transportation foundations, Natural resources, supportive government and numerous colonies.

Next, write about its impact.

Conclusion:

Summarize how all the above factors converged to start the revolution in England.

 

Topic: Salient features of Indian Society, Diversity of India.

2. Cultural diversity preserves the unique heritage and identity of communities, safeguarding traditions, rituals, languages, and historical landmarks for future generations. Discuss. (150 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Insights on India

Why the question:

The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 1.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the importance of preserving and promoting cultural diversity.

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.

Body:

First, write about the importance of cultural diversity – Advocate for the preservation and promotion of regional languages and customs, Emphasize the need for inclusive policies and cultural exchange and highlight the role of cultural diversity in fostering national unity. Cite examples to substantiate.

Conclusion:

Conclude with a way forward to improve the representation of women in the judiciary

 


General Studies – 2


 

Topic: India and its neighborhood- relations.

3. Both India-Nepal have experienced political changes in recent years, with shifts in leadership and governance structures. Ensuring mutual respect for each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity is essential for fostering trust and cooperation. Analyse. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: The Hindu

Why the question:

The new government in India in June this year could consider offering Nepal a new and holistic development road map which would excite public imagination and enable cross-party political consensus.

Key Demand of the question:

To bring out the changing landscape of Indo-Nepal relation in light of recent developments between the two countries and need for rebalancing in their ties.

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: 

In brief, give a historical perspective of Indo-Nepal relations.

Body:

Present a timeline that depicts major events between India and Nepal and highlights the controversies around their relations. Elaborate upon the recent boundary issue as well the internal strife being witnessed in Nepal.

Discuss the underlying factors responsible for unchanging perspectives for each other. Bring out their impacts on the relations of the both countries. Discuss ties at different levels between the two – people to people ties, government to government ties, the China factor etc.

Bring out the present picture of the Indo-Nepal ties.

Conclusion:

Mention a way forward to recalibrate the ties and ensure mutual prosperity between the two countries.

 

Topic: Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate.

4. Wildlife trafficking remains a pervasive issue despite extensive efforts at both international and national levels. Discuss the comprehensive measures that are necessary to effectively combat wildlife trafficking worldwide. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Tough

Reference: Down to Earth

Why the question:

The rhino and the cedar were the animal and plant species most affected by global illegal wildlife trade during 2015-2021, the 2024 World Wildlife Crime Report released by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the reasons for continued wildlife trafficking and measures needed against it.

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 by citing a statistic from the article.

Body:

First, write about the reasons for wildlife trafficking – profitability, weak legal enforcement, high demand for exotic species, organized crime involvement, poverty, and inadequate international cooperation.

Next, mention that are needed to address the above-mentioned issues – robust legislation and enforcement, increased awareness, international cooperation, support for alternative livelihoods, community engagement, sustainable tourism, and technological solutions.

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing a way forward.

 


General Studies – 3


 

Topic: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc.

5. The role of biogas in India’s energy transition is significant, offering a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional fossil fuels. Discuss. (150 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Down to EarthInsights on India

Why the question:

India’s compressed biogas sector present opportunities for startup entrepreneurs.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the role of bio gas in India’s energy transition and support needed to bio gas sector.

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 citing statistic related to bio gas sector in the country

Body:

In the first part, write about the Biogas scenario in India’s renewable sector. Cite statistic and show the potential of biogas in India’s energy transition. Write about the advantages it offers – renewable energy generation, efficient waste management, rural development, agricultural benefits, and climate change mitigation.

Next, write the major issues affecting Biogas sector and support needed for the sector.

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing a way forward.

 

Topic: basics of cyber security;

6. Deepfakes have the potential to create highly convincing fake content, including videos of political figures to spread false information and manipulate public opinion, undermining the integrity of democratic processes such as elections and public discourse. Examine. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Indian ExpressInsights on India

Why the question:

Deepfakes in elections have shaken our faith in our own judgement.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about deepfakes, threat posed by them and steps that are needed to counter them.

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 deepfakes.

Body:

First, Deepfakes leverage powerful techniques from machine learning and artificial intelligence to manipulate or generate visual and audio content. Discuss then the concerns posed by them. Deepfakes can be and have been weaponised to inflict harm. Deepfakes can inflict damage to individuals, institutions, businesses and democracy.

Next, write about the steps that are needed to overcome the challenges posed by it.

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing a way forward.

 


General Studies – 4


 

Topic: Work culture, Quality of service delivery,

7. Recognizing and rewarding ethical behavior is not only morally imperative but also strategically advantageous for organizations. 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 components of ethical workplace culture and ways to build it.

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:

Start by describing an ethical work culture.

Body:

Write about the major factors that create and maintain a culture of ethical behaviour – leadership, organizational structure, policies and procedures, training and communication, rewards and recognition, organizational values, and industry norms and regulations.

Next, write about ways to build ethical workplace culture and environment.

Conclusion:

Conclude by summarising.

 

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