UPSC Mains Answer Writing Practice – Insights SECURE : 23 May 2024

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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. The Revolt of 1857 was a watershed moment in Indian history, caused by a multitude of factors, with far-reaching consequences for both India and British colonial rule. Discuss. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Easy

Reference: Chapter 1- India’s Struggle for Independence by Bipan Chandra.

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 causes and impact created by the revolt of 1857.

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 giving context.

Body:

First, write about the causes of revolt of 1857 which led to the participation of diverse groups.

Next, write about how revolt of 1857 jolted the British administration.

Next, Mention the various re-alignment policies in administration such a British crown taking over control from EIC, Military strengthening, Transfer of Power, Divide and Rule, New Policy Towards the Princess, Search for New allies etc brought by the British as a way to avoid any such future uprising.

Conclusion:

Conclude by mentioning that although the British succeeded in overpowering the Uprising, it proved to be the beginning of resistance from the people of India.

Topic: Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc., geographical features and their location-changes in critical geographical features (including water-bodies and ice-caps) and in flora and fauna and the effects of such changes.

2. Explain the phenomenon of La Niña. It has a profound impact on India’s climate. Suggest ways for India to better prepare for its arrival.  (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Indian Express , Insights on India

Why the question:

Last month, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasted above-normal rain in the upcoming monsoon season in India, with “favourable” La Nina conditions expected to set in by August-September.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about La-Nina, write its impact on India and ways to prepare for its arrival.

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: 

Begin the answer by writing about the La Nina.

Body:

In the first part, write about the features of La-Nina – occurrence, mechanism, frequency of occurrence, duration, conditions required to occur etc.

Next, in detail write about how La-Nina impacts the global weather patterns and bring out its impact on India.

Next, write about the ways to prepare for its arrival.

Conclusion:

Conclude with a way forward.

General Studies – 2

Topic: Issues relating to poverty and hunger.

3. What is ultra-poverty? In order to combat it, institutional changes are needed to address the structural drivers of ultra-poverty, including inequality, unemployment, and lack of social protection. Discuss. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Tough

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 ultra-poverty and measures need to combat 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 defining ultra-poverty.

Body:

First, provide a statistic regarding to ultra-poor in the country and bring out its impact.

Next, mention the limitations of existing of poverty alleviation schemes in addressing the issues of the ultra-poor.

Next, write about the need for specialised focus and attention towards ultra-poor. Measures needed to combat ultra-poverty.

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing a way forward.

Topic: India and its neighborhood- relations.

4. Opening Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) to new members can significantly enhance regional cooperation, economic growth, and strategic influence, while addressing common challenges and strengthening institutional capacities. Critically analyse. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: The Hindu , Insights on India

Why the question:

The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) will now be open to new members and observers after a historic first charter of the grouping came into force on 20 May.

Key Demand of the question: 

To write about various opportunities provided by BIMSTEC by opening itself to new members and challenges it poses.

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:

Begin by giving context.

Body:

First, write in brief about the mandate of BIMSTEC.

Next, write the about the various opportunities provided by opening BIMSTEC to new countries and blocks – Trade and Investment, Infrastructure Development, Tourism, Agricultural Development and People-to-People Contact etc.

Next, write about the limitations of the above – coordination, policy harmonization, and managing disparities among members etc.

Conclusion:

Conclude writing a way forward to ensure holistic cooperation for mutual development of BIMSTEC.

General Studies – 3

Topic: Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life.

5.  The emerging technology of Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft offer significant benefits but also pose challenges that need to be addressed. Analyse. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Tough

Reference: Down to Earth

Why the question:

Indian Institute of Technology, Madras-incubated ePlane Company is expected to launch its e-flying taxis in Bengaluru this year, pending Directorate General of Civil Aviation approval.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the eVTOL technology, its advantages and limitations.

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: 

Begin by giving context.

Body:

First, write about the eVTOL and how it works.

Next, write about the benefits eVTOL – reduced emissions, decreased noise pollution, time savings by bypassing traffic, and economic opportunities through new job creation and improved access to remote areas etc.

Next, write about the issues in the above – safety issues, developing necessary infrastructure like vertiports and charging stations, navigating complex regulations, and addressing high initial costs etc.

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing a way forward.

General Studies – 4

Topic: Contributions of moral thinkers and philosophers from India and world.

6.  Hedonism advocates pleasure as life’s ultimate goal, guiding ethical decisions toward maximizing pleasure and minimizing pain. Critically examine. (150 words)

Difficulty level: Tough

Reference: newworldencyclopedia.org

Why the question:

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

Key Demand of the question: 

write about hedonism and its critique.

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: 

Start by defining Hedonism.

Body:

Write about the appeal of Hedonism and its emphasis on pleasures and happiness.

Next, write a critique of hedonism – Hedonism can lead to immoral behaviour, Difficulty defining pleasure, Neglect of other important values and Hedonism can lead to addiction etc.

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing a balanced view on the above.

Topic: Case Study

7. As the food department prepares to launch a grand poverty and hunger alleviation scheme involving mass distribution of food grains to the poor, Senior IAS Officer Suresh must decide who will be his deputy to oversee the entire process, from procurement to last mile delivery. He is presented with two highly capable candidates: Salman and Shahrukh.

Salman is a seasoned officer with 10 years of service. He has prior experience from a deputation at the Food Corporation of India, making him well-versed in the logistics of food distribution. Despite having a pending vigilance case related to alleged disproportionate assets, Salman is a team player and highly respected among his peers. He is a family-oriented man with a pregnant wife and a child. His popularity stems from his ability to connect with people and inspire teamwork.

Shahrukh, on the other hand, boasts 15 years of service. He is known for his unwavering commitment to rules and regulations, a trait that has sometimes caused delays due to his meticulous approach. His dedication is evident in his willingness to work long hours, even beyond office hours and on weekends. While he is unmarried, Shahrukh’s professional rigidity sometimes clashes with colleagues, particularly his previous boss who is a friend of Suresh.

1. 1. Who should Suresh choose? Why?
   2. Which is more a severe moral hazard – concerns about a person’s integrity or his poor work efficiency?
   3. How can Salman be improved to be a better officer?
   4. How can Shahrukh be improved to be a better officer?

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