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General Studies – 1
Topic: Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times.
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: PIB
Why the question
The Ministry of Culture continues its special festival series, Amrit Parampara, a grand initiative to unite India through the shared legacy of art and cultureKey Demand of the question
To analyze how festivals like ‘Amrit Parampara’ can act as platforms for reviving traditional art forms, and to assess their impact on preserving cultural diversity.Structure of the Answer:
Introduction
Briefly define cultural festivals and their role in preserving intangible heritage, linking to ‘Amrit Parampara.’Body
- Write in brief about Amrit Parampara.
- Mention how festivals provide exposure and platforms for traditional arts.
- Discuss the role of government and private initiatives in supporting these art forms.
- Highlight the use of modern methods like technology to engage a wider audience.
Conclusion
Conclude with the significance of cultural festivals in ensuring the survival of diverse art forms and their continued relevance in modern times.
Topic: Changes in critical geographical features (including water-bodies and ice-caps)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: TH
Why the question:
Villagers join hands against illegal sand mining along Assam-Meghalaya border.Key Demand of the question:
Analyze the drivers behind illegal sand mining. Examine its implications for river ecosystems and sustainable management. Propose solutions to address the issue.
Structure of the Answer:
Introduction:
Define illegal sand mining briefly, linking it to the environmental degradation of river systems in India.
Body:
- Factors Driving Illegal Sand Mining: Suggest points such as high demand for sand in construction, weak regulation, corruption, and socio-economic dependence in affected regions.
- Implications for Sustainable River Management: Suggest points covering riverbed degradation, biodiversity loss, disruption of natural water flow, and increased vulnerability to floods and erosion.
- Solutions: Suggest measures like stronger regulatory enforcement, technological monitoring (e.g., satellite imagery), promoting alternatives (manufactured sand), and involving local communities in sustainable management efforts.
Conclusion:
Emphasize the urgent need for a balanced approach that addresses both development needs and environmental sustainability, calling for stricter enforcement and long-term policy measures for river conservation.
General Studies – 2
Topic: India’s Relationship with Nepal
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: InsightsIAS
Why the Question
India-Nepal relations have faced recent tensions due to border issues and geopolitical dynamics, making it essential to explore areas of contention and ways to stabilize the relationship.
Key Demand of the Question
Identify the primary areas of conflict between India and Nepal and suggest measures for fostering a stable and cooperative bilateral relationship.
Structure of the Answer:
Introduction
Briefly mention the historical ties and significance of India-Nepal relations in South Asia.
Body:
- Areas of Contention: Outline issues like border disputes, political influence, water-sharing, and economic dependency.
- Steps for Mitigation: Suggest diplomatic measures, enhancing people-to-people ties, and mutually beneficial economic initiatives to address these challenges.
Conclusion:
Emphasize the importance of a strong India-Nepal relationship for regional stability and the need for constructive dialogue to resolve issues.
Topic: India’s Foreign Policy
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: MEA
Why the Question
The question highlights the transition in India’s foreign policy from an idealistic, principle-based approach to a pragmatic, interest-driven strategy, which is critical in understanding India’s evolving role in global affairs.
Key Demand of the Question
Explain the initial idealistic foundations of India’s foreign policy, the reasons for its gradual shift towards pragmatism, and how this evolution impacts India’s current international strategy.
Structure of the Answer:
Introduction:
Briefly introduce India’s foreign policy ideals post-independence and the guiding principles of non-alignment and peaceful coexistence.
Body:
- Phase 1 – Idealism: Outline the non-alignment era, emphasizing anti-colonialism and Nehruvian principles.
- Phase 2 – Pragmatic Shift: Explain the post-Cold War adjustments, 1991 economic reforms, and engagement with global powers.
- Phase 3 – Contemporary Pragmatism: Highlight current multi-alignment, strategic partnerships, and India’s pursuit of strategic autonomy.
Conclusion:
Conclude by emphasizing how pragmatism enhances India’s adaptability and resilience in a multipolar world.
General Studies – 3
Topic: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment, Inclusive growth and issues arising from it.
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: IE
Why the question:
The issue of stagnant rural wages despite India’s buoyant GDP growth raises concerns about inclusive economic development and wage distribution, particularly in rural areas.Key Demand of the question:
About the paradox of stagnant rural wages despite GDP growth. Examine the factors driving this stagnation. Suggest measures to enhance rural wage growth.
Structure of the Answer:
Introduction:
Provide a brief statement on the contrast between India’s GDP growth and the lack of real wage growth in rural areas, introducing the paradox.
Body:
- Paradox Explanation:-Highlight the reasons why economic growth has not translated into wage growth, focusing on changing labour market dynamics and the nature of growth.
- Factors Driving Stagnation:- Discuss key factors contributing to wage stagnation, including structural issues in the economy, labour force changes, and inflationary pressures.
- Measures to Enhance Rural Wage Growth: – Suggest potential policy measures and strategies that can boost rural wage growth, such as promoting diversified rural employment and addressing productivity gaps.
Conclusion:
End with a statement on the need for inclusive growth and policies that align rural wages with overall economic progress for balanced development.
Topic: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources.
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: IE
Why the question:
Over seven years after the rollout of GST in July 2017, authorities are still grappling with multiple such instances of GST frauds, involving broadly similar modus operandi.Key Demand of the question:
The trends of tax evasion under the GST regime, focusing on evolving frauds like fake ITC claims and fake firms. Measures to improve enforcement and compliance mechanisms.
Structure of the Answer:
Introduction:
Briefly highlight the growth in GST frauds and the evolving nature of tax evasion since the rollout of GST in 2017.
Body:
- Trends in Tax Evasion: Outline the key trends like fake invoicing, fraudulent input tax credit claims, identity theft, and undervaluation of goods and services.
- Measures for Improvement: Suggest measures like enhanced use of technology, stricter enforcement, real-time monitoring, inter-agency coordination, and legal reforms.
Conclusion
Conclude with the need for stronger enforcement frameworks and the use of technology-driven solutions to enhance compliance and reduce tax evasion.
General Studies – 4
Q7. What does the following quotation convey to you in the present context?
Difficulty Level: Medium
Why the Question
This question emphasizes the value of optimism in humanity, even when challenges or negative elements arise. It is particularly relevant in the present context, where ethical dilemmas and crises often test people’s belief in collective goodness.
Key Demand of the Question
Interpret the quote’s message about retaining faith in humanity despite imperfections, and relate it to contemporary scenarios.
Structure of the Answer:
Introduction: Briefly interpret the meaning of the quote, focusing on the metaphor of humanity as an ocean and the resilience of goodness.
Body:
- Significance of Faith in Humanity: Discuss why it’s essential to hold onto belief in humanity’s inherent goodness despite certain negative events.
- Application in Present Context: Highlight how this perspective applies to issues like social justice, humanitarian crises, or individual actions that contribute positively to society.
- Examples of Positive Change: Mention instances where small positive actions by individuals or groups restore faith in humanity.
Conclusion:
Emphasize the importance of focusing on the collective strength of humanity and the impact of individual acts of kindness in sustaining a hopeful outlook.
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