UPSC Mains Answer Writing Practice – Insights SECURE: 7 August 2024

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General Studies – 1

Topic: Post-Vedic Period

Q1. The Post Vedic period marked the consolidation of caste systems and social hierarchies. Comment. 10M

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Insights IAS

Why the question:

The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 1 and mentioned as part of Mission-2025 Secure timetable.

Key Demand of the question:

To comment on how the caste system and social hierarchies were consolidated during the Post-Vedic period and their effects on Indian society.

Structure of the Answer:

Introduction:

Introduce the Post-Vedic period as a time of significant social, political, and religious transformations in ancient India.

Body:

1. Firstly, mention the factors that led to consolidation of caste system – evolution and entrenchment of caste structures, Scriptural and Religious Texts Provided religious justification for the caste system, codification of Varna system, role of Brahmins and religious institutions.
2. In second part, briefly mention the factors that led to consolidation of social hierarchies,
3. At last, briefly mention the impact of caste consolidation and social hierarchies in Later-Vedic society.

Conclusion:

Conclude accordingly

Topic: Iranian & Macedonian Invasion

Q2. Discuss the impact of the Iranian and Macedonian invasions on Indian society, politics, and culture. 15M

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Insights ias

Why the question:

The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 1 and mentioned as part of Mission-2025 Secure timetable.
Key Demand of the question:

To discuss the effects of the Iranian and Macedonian invasions on various aspects of Indian civilization, including its society, political structure, and cultural developments.

Structure of the Answer:

Introduction:

Introduce the Iranian and Macedonian invasions as significant events in ancient Indian history.

Body:

1. First discuss the Impact of the Iranian Invasions: Introduction of new administrative practices, Increased economic interactions and exchange of goods, Cultural and Artistic Exchange, etc. Cite examples.
2. Next discuss the Impact of the Macedonian Invasions – Temporary disruption of local kingdoms, Introduction of Greek cultural elements into Indian society, Adoption and adaptation of certain Greek military techniques by Indian rulers, Settlement of Foreigners on Indian Soil etc.

Conclusion:

Conclude by emphasizing the significance of these interactions in shaping the historical trajectory of ancient India and contributing to its rich and diverse cultural heritage.

General Studies – 2

Topic: Statutory, Regulatory and various Quasi-judicial Bodies

Q3. Enumerate the functions of the Central Information Commission (CIC). Do you think it has taken essential steps to remove the impediments to the citizen’s pursuit of accountability? Justify your stance with suitable examples. (250 words)

 Difficulty level: Moderate

 Reference: Live law

Why the question:

The Delhi High Court has ruled that the compensation awarded by the Central Information Commission (CIC) under the Right to Information Act, 2005, has to directly correlate with the personal detriment experienced by the complainant.

Key Demand of the Question:

Enumerate the functions of the Central Information Commission (CIC) and evaluate if it has effectively addressed obstacles to citizen accountability, supported by examples.

Directive:

Evaluate type: Explain functions, take a stance and justify with examples.

Structure of the Answer:

Introduction:

Brief about the Right to Information and its importance.

Body:

First part: Functions of CIC:

Enforce the Right to Information (RTI) Act, transparency and accountability

Hear appeals and complaints, Impose penalties, Ensure proactive disclosure of information

Second part: Effectiveness in Addressing Obstacle

Examples of Actions Taken: Case laws where CIC’s rulings enhanced information disclosure.

Third part: Challenges and Criticisms:

Issues with compensation correlating with personal detriment.

Instances where CIC’s actions were limited or ineffective.

Conclusion:

Reflect on areas needing improvement and propose suggestions for enhancement.

Topic: Issues related to federal structure; Quasi-judicial Bodies

Q4. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has faced challenges to its credibility in recent years. Examine the factors behind this erosion of trust and recommend steps to enhance and sustain its reputation. (150 words)

 Difficulty level: Moderate

 Reference: Indian Express

Why the question:

The CBI has booked the country’s leading aluminium producer, Hindalco of the Aditya Birla Group.

 Key Demand of the Question:

Examine the factors contributing to the erosion of trust in the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and recommend steps to enhance and sustain its credibility.

 Directive:

Examine- challenges, factors and practical suggestions ahead.

 Structure of the Answer:

 Introduction:

Briefly introduce the CBI and its role in Indian governance.

 Body:

 First part: Factors Behind Erosion of Trust:

Political Interference, Allegations of Bias, Public Perception

 Second part: Recommendations to Enhance and Sustain Credibility

Institutional Reforms, Transparency and Accountability

Strengthening Internal Processes, Public Relations and Communication

 Conclusion:

Emphasize the importance of implementing recommended reforms to restore and maintain trust.

General Studies – 3

Topic: Economy

Q5. What is the Yen carry trade? Discuss its impact on India. (10M)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Indian Express

Why the question:

Yen carry trade is in the News due to its impact on the World’s stock market.

Key Demand of the question:

To explain the yen carry trade mechanism and analyze how changes in Japan’s monetary policy led to its unwinding, triggering global market reactions and its impact on India

Structure of the Answer:

Introduction: Begin by defining the yen carry trade.

Body:

1. Yen Carry Trade:
   • Definition: Borrowing in yen at low interest rates and investing in higher-yielding assets abroad.
   • Example: Japan’s zero or negative interest rates encourage this practice.
2. Impact of BoJ Policy Changes:
   • Background: BoJ’s recent interest rate hikes (from -0.1% to 0.25%).
   • Consequence: Strengthening of the yen and investors selling off foreign assets.
3. Global Market Impact:
   • Explanation: How the unwinding led to asset sell-offs, contributing to market declines.
   • Case Study: The market fell on August 5th, highlighting interconnected economic factors.
4. Indian Market Impact:

Conclusion:

Write a way forward.

Topic: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development and employment.

Q6. Examine the efficacy of inflation targeting as a monetary policy tool in India. Should RBI target only core inflation? Discuss. (250 words)

Reference:  Live Mint

Why the Question:

Inflation targeting has been a key component of the RBI’s monetary policy framework. However, the debate continues on whether the RBI should focus solely on core inflation, which excludes volatile items like food and energy prices, or maintain its broader approach.

Key Demand of the Question:

To evaluate the effectiveness of inflation targeting as a monetary policy tool in India and discuss whether the RBI should focus only on core inflation.

Structure of the Answer:

Introduction: Define inflation targeting and its objectives within the context of India’s monetary policy.

Body:

1. Efficacy of Inflation Targeting:
   • Explain the goals and mechanisms of inflation targeting.
   • Discuss the success of the RBI in achieving its inflation targets since adopting this framework.
   • Highlight any challenges or limitations encountered.
2. Arguments for Targeting Only Core Inflation:
   • Discuss the stability and predictability of core inflation as it excludes volatile food and energy prices.
   • Explain how core inflation targeting can lead to more consistent monetary policy decisions.
   • Provide examples from other countries that successfully target core inflation.
3. Arguments Against Targeting Only Core Inflation:
   • Highlight the importance of food and energy prices in the Indian economy, where a large portion of the population is sensitive to these price changes.
   • Discuss how targeting only core inflation might ignore significant inflationary pressures experienced by the poor and the implications for social equity.
   • Mention the impact of supply-side factors, such as agricultural output and international commodity prices, on overall inflation.

Conclusion:
Conclude with a way forward.

General Studies – 4

Topic: Emotional intelligence.

Q7. What does this quote mean to you?

“The road to success runs uphill.” [10M]

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Deccan Herald

Why the question: As the Paris Olympics is underway the athletes are often in the news to achieve medals in the Olympics.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction: Begin by defining the meaning of success.

Body:

• First, explain why the path to success is challenging.
• Then, explain how to inculcate and tame one’s mind to be resilient.
• Use examples to justify your points.

Conclusion:

Summarize by writing an ethical philosophy or quote.

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