[Mission 2024] Insights SECURE SYNOPSIS: 1 April 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: Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc;

Topic: Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc;

1. What are the primary factors contributing to the escalation in severe cyclonic storm occurrences in India, and how can effective mitigation and adaptation strategies be implemented to address this growing challenge? Discuss. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Live Mint , Insights on India

Why the question: A “sudden” storm wreaked havoc in parts of Jalpaiguri district in northern West Bengal on Sunday, claiming four lives. Over 100 others have reportedly been injured in the storm. Key Demand of the question: To mention about causes behind severe cyclonic storms and measures needed to mitigate and adapt to 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 giving context. Body: In the first part of the body, start by mentioning the various causes of severe cyclonic storm – climate change, ocean warming, changes in atmospheric circulation patterns, urbanization, deforestation, poor infrastructure, and natural climate variability etc. Next, mention ways to mitigate and adapt – reducing greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing coastal resilience through better infrastructure and land use planning, restoring natural barriers like mangroves and wetlands, improving disaster preparedness and response mechanisms, Conclusion: Write a way forward.

Why the question:

A “sudden” storm wreaked havoc in parts of Jalpaiguri district in northern West Bengal on Sunday, claiming four lives. Over 100 others have reportedly been injured in the storm.

Key Demand of the question:

To mention about causes behind severe cyclonic storms and measures needed to mitigate and adapt to 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 giving context.

In the first part of the body, start by mentioning the various causes of severe cyclonic storm – climate change, ocean warming, changes in atmospheric circulation patterns, urbanization, deforestation, poor infrastructure, and natural climate variability etc.

Next, mention ways to mitigate and adapt – reducing greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing coastal resilience through better infrastructure and land use planning, restoring natural barriers like mangroves and wetlands, improving disaster preparedness and response mechanisms,

Conclusion:

Write a way forward.

Introduction

Tropical Cyclone is any large system of winds that circulates about a centre of low atmospheric pressure in a counter-clockwise direction north of the Equator and in a clockwise direction to the south. Cyclonic winds move across nearly all regions of the Earth except the equatorial belt and are generally associated with rain or snow.

A “sudden” storm wreaked havoc in parts of Jalpaiguri district in northern West Bengal on Sunday, claiming four lives. Over 100 others have reportedly been injured in the storm.

Process and conditions favorable for Cyclone Formation

• Large sea surface with temperature higher than 27° C

• Presence of the Coriolis force enough to create a cyclonic vortex: The Coriolis force is zero at the equator (no cyclones at equator because of zero Coriolis Force) but it increases with latitude. Coriolis force at 5° latitude is significant enough to create a storm [cyclonic vortex]. About 65 per cent of cyclonic activity occurs between 10° and 20° latitude. Small variations in the vertical wind speed A pre-existing weak low-pressure area or low-level-cyclonic circulation

• The Coriolis force is zero at the equator (no cyclones at equator because of zero Coriolis Force) but it increases with latitude. Coriolis force at 5° latitude is significant enough to create a storm [cyclonic vortex].

• About 65 per cent of cyclonic activity occurs between 10° and 20° latitude.

• Small variations in the vertical wind speed

• A pre-existing weak low-pressure area or low-level-cyclonic circulation

• Humidity Factor: High humidity (around 50 to 60 per cent) is required in the mid-troposphere, since the presence of moist air leads to the formation of cumulonimbus cloud. Such conditions exist over the equatorial doldrums, especially in western margins of oceans (this is because of east to west movement of ocean currents), which have great moisture, carrying capacity because the trade winds continuously replace the saturated air.

• High humidity (around 50 to 60 per cent) is required in the mid-troposphere, since the presence of moist air leads to the formation of cumulonimbus cloud.

• Such conditions exist over the equatorial doldrums, especially in western margins of oceans (this is because of east to west movement of ocean currents), which have great moisture, carrying capacity because the trade winds continuously replace the saturated air.

• Upper divergence above the sea level system: A well – developed divergence in the upper layers of the atmosphere is necessary so that the rising air currents within the cyclone continue to be pumped out and a low pressure maintained at the center.

• A well – developed divergence in the upper layers of the atmosphere is necessary so that the rising air currents within the cyclone continue to be pumped out and a low pressure maintained at the center.

• Low-level Disturbances: Low-level disturbance in the form of easterly wave disturbances in the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) should pre-exist.

• Low-level disturbance in the form of easterly wave disturbances in the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) should pre-exist.

• Temperature contrast between air masses: Trade winds from both the hemispheres meet along inter-tropical front. Temperature contrasts between these air masses must exist when the ITCZ is farthest, from the equator. Thus, the convergence of these air masses of different temperatures and the resulting instability are the prerequisites for the origin and growth of violent tropical storms.

• Trade winds from both the hemispheres meet along inter-tropical front. Temperature contrasts between these air masses must exist when the ITCZ is farthest, from the equator.

• Thus, the convergence of these air masses of different temperatures and the resulting instability are the prerequisites for the origin and growth of violent tropical storms.

• Wind Shear: It is the differences between wind speeds at different heights Tropical cyclones develop when the wind is uniform. Because of weak vertical wind shear, cyclone formation processes are limited to latitude equator ward of the subtropical jet stream. In the temperate regions, wind shear is high due to westerlies and this inhibits convective cyclone formation.

• It is the differences between wind speeds at different heights

• Tropical cyclones develop when the wind is uniform.

• Because of weak vertical wind shear, cyclone formation processes are limited to latitude equator ward of the subtropical jet stream.

• In the temperate regions, wind shear is high due to westerlies and this inhibits convective cyclone formation.

Way forward

Short term measures:

• provide cyclone forecasting, tracking and warning systems

• Construction of cyclone shelters, cyclone resistant buildings, road links, bridges, canals, drains etc.

• Establishing Early Warning Dissemination System (EWDS), and Capacity building for coastal communities.

• Mock drills, and training of local population and police by NDRF and SDRF

• Plantations of strong rooted trees, canopies, mangroves and proper vegetation cover which act as first line of defence.

• Proper drainage system throughout the city to discharge the water as soon as possible to avoid flood like conditions

• Use of NAVIC and RESOURCESAT-2 for disseminating coastal information and helping in disaster management.

• Implementation of National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project

Long term measures:

• The National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project (NCRMP) should be implemented with financial assistance from the World Bank

• The NDMA had come up with its National Guidelines of Management of Cyclones in 2008. The basic premise of these guidelines is that the mitigation has to be multi-sectoral.

• Developing Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) frameworks for addressing the sustainability and optimal utilisation of coastal resources as also cyclone impact minimisation plans.

• Ensuring cyclone resistant design standards are incorporated in the rural/ urban housing schemes in coastal areas

• Implementing coastal flood zoning, flood plain development and flood inundation management and regulatory plans.

• Coastal bio-shields spread, preservation and restoration/ regeneration plans.

• There is a need for private sector participation in designing and implementing policies, plans, and standards.

• Need of Disaster Management program to be inclusive including women, civil society, and academia.

Conclusion

Cyclone Disaster Management encompasses mitigation and preparedness measures for cyclones. Installing disaster-resilient power infrastructure in the coastal districts, providing concrete houses to poor and vulnerable households, and creating massive community awareness campaigns are essential.

General Studies – 2

Topic: Indian Constitution—historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure.

Topic: Indian Constitution—historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure.

2. Separation of powers and judicial review are integral components of a democracy, providing essential mechanisms to prevent tyranny, protect individual rights, and uphold the rule of law. Discuss. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Easy

Reference: Indian Express , Insights on India , Insights on India

Why the question: As the Chief Justice of India pointed out recently, access to the Supreme Court is available to all, no matter how big or small. Key Demand of the question: To write about the importance of separation of power and judicial review. 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 the answer by defining separation of power. Body: First, write about the separation of power and its importance – prevent the concentration of power in any one branch of government, each branch has its own distinct powers and responsibilities, ensuring a system of checks and balances etc. Next, write about judicial review and its importance – part of basic structure of the constitution, empowers the judiciary to review the actions of the executive and legislative branches, trike down laws or executive actions that are found to be unconstitutional etc. Cite examples to substantiate. Conclusion: Conclude by summarising.

Why the question:

As the Chief Justice of India pointed out recently, access to the Supreme Court is available to all, no matter how big or small.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the importance of separation of power and judicial review.

Directive word:

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Begin the answer by defining separation of power.

First, write about the separation of power and its importance – prevent the concentration of power in any one branch of government, each branch has its own distinct powers and responsibilities, ensuring a system of checks and balances etc.

Next, write about judicial review and its importance – part of basic structure of the constitution, empowers the judiciary to review the actions of the executive and legislative branches, trike down laws or executive actions that are found to be unconstitutional etc. Cite examples to substantiate.

Conclusion:

Conclude by summarising.

Introduction

The separation of powers is a foundational principle that allocates distinct functions to different branches of government. These branches are:

• Legislative: Responsible for creating laws.

• Executive: Tasked with implementing laws.

• Judicial: Interprets laws and ensures their constitutionality.

Importance of Separation of Powers:

• Checks and Balances: Each branch acts as a check on the others, preventing any one branch from becoming too powerful. Ensures accountability and transparency.

• Each branch acts as a check on the others, preventing any one branch from becoming too powerful.

• Ensures accountability and transparency.

• Preventing Concentration of Power: No single branch dominates, safeguarding citizens’ rights. Promotes a healthy democratic system.

• No single branch dominates, safeguarding citizens’ rights.

• Promotes a healthy democratic system.

Judicial Review: Upholding Constitutional Principles

Judicial review empowers the judiciary to assess the validity of laws, executive actions, and government decisions. It ensures that no branch exceeds its constitutional boundaries. In India, judicial review is considered a basic feature of the Constitution (e.g., Indira Gandhi vs. Raj Narain case).

Role and Importance of Judicial Review:

• Constitutional Adjudication: Courts examine the constitutionality of legislative acts. Invalidates laws that violate fundamental principles.

• Courts examine the constitutionality of legislative acts.

• Invalidates laws that violate fundamental principles.

• Balancing Power: Courts prevent executive and legislative overreach. Uphold citizens’ rights.

• Courts prevent executive and legislative overreach.

• Uphold citizens’ rights.

• Examples of Judicial Review in India: Shankari Prasad v. Union of India: Asserted Parliament’s amendment power. Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala: Defined the limits of amending the Constitution. Minerva Mills v. Union of India: Struck down laws violating fundamental rights. R. Coelho v. State of Tamil Nadu: Upheld the primacy of the Constitution.

• Shankari Prasad v. Union of India: Asserted Parliament’s amendment power.

• Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala: Defined the limits of amending the Constitution.

• Minerva Mills v. Union of India: Struck down laws violating fundamental rights.

• R. Coelho v. State of Tamil Nadu: Upheld the primacy of the Constitution.

Indian Examples of Judicial Review

• Mithu v. State of Punjab: Supreme Court declared Section 303 of the Indian Penal Code unconstitutional. Upheld the right to life and personal liberty.

• Supreme Court declared Section 303 of the Indian Penal Code unconstitutional.

• Upheld the right to life and personal liberty.

• Ninth Schedule Cases: Courts review laws placed in the Ninth Schedule (initially immune from judicial scrutiny). I.R. Coelho v. State of Tamil Nadu clarified that even Ninth Schedule laws can be reviewed.

• Courts review laws placed in the Ninth Schedule (initially immune from judicial scrutiny).

• I.R. Coelho v. State of Tamil Nadu clarified that even Ninth Schedule laws can be reviewed.

• Public Interest Litigation (PIL): Allows courts to intervene in public issues without traditional locus standi. Ensures judicial review extends beyond individual grievances.

• Allows courts to intervene in public issues without traditional locus standi.

• Ensures judicial review extends beyond individual grievances.

Conclusion

Separation of powers and judicial review are cornerstones of our constitutional democracy. They prevent tyranny, maintain a balance of authority, and protect citizens’ liberties. As the judiciary continues to interpret and uphold constitutional values, it reinforces the democratic fabric of our nation.

Topic: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.

Topic: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.

3. By adopting a comprehensive approach that addresses both the medical and socio-economic dimensions of HIV/AIDS, India can make further progress in reducing HIV incidence and improving the quality of life for those affected by the virus. Analyse. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: The Hindu

Why the question: April 1, marks a very important day in the history of response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic in India. Twenty years ago, on April 1, 2004, the Indian government had launched Free Antiretroviral Therapy (ART), for Persons living with HIV (PLHIV), a decision which has proven one of the successful and a key intervention in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Key Demand of the question: To explain the reasons why India has been able to achieve positive results in the fight against AIDS and also highlight the challenges that we are yet to overcome. 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 stating the progress India has achieved in its fight against AIDS. Body: First, give a brief account of the steps taken by the government in fight against AIDS – NACP, role of NACO, the HIV and AIDS Bill which prohibits discrimination amongst others etc. Next, mention about the unending stigma faced by AIDS survivors in housing, employment, own family etc. Next, mention the various inequalities faced gender inequalities, discrimination against the high-risk groups, inequalities invoice, income inequality and work on to provide social protection to the infected and affected population. Conclusion: Conclude by writing a way forward to end stigma against AIDS and address the inequalities.

Why the question:

April 1, marks a very important day in the history of response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic in India. Twenty years ago, on April 1, 2004, the Indian government had launched Free Antiretroviral Therapy (ART), for Persons living with HIV (PLHIV), a decision which has proven one of the successful and a key intervention in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

Key Demand of the question:

To explain the reasons why India has been able to achieve positive results in the fight against AIDS and also highlight the challenges that we are yet to overcome.

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 stating the progress India has achieved in its fight against AIDS.

First, give a brief account of the steps taken by the government in fight against AIDS – NACP, role of NACO, the HIV and AIDS Bill which prohibits discrimination amongst others etc.

Next, mention about the unending stigma faced by AIDS survivors in housing, employment, own family etc.

Next, mention the various inequalities faced gender inequalities, discrimination against the high-risk groups, inequalities invoice, income inequality and work on to provide social protection to the infected and affected population.

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing a way forward to end stigma against AIDS and address the inequalities.

Introduction

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), adopted by member countries of the United Nations in 2015, set a target of ending the epidemics of AIDS by 2030 (SDG 3.3). There has been much success achieved in the past 20 years in the battle against AIDS, but more needed to be done. Government has made significant efforts in order to raise awareness against AIDS, yet there is stigma against the survivors.

Steps taken by India in reducing HIV incidence

• Healthcare infrastructure: Over 34,000 testing centres, more than1,900 anti-retroviral treatment centres and over 1,400 targeted interventions are currently running in the country, which impacts more than four million high-risk groups and target populations.

• National Strategic Plan 2017-24 and Mission“SAMPARK”, to trace those who are Left to Follow Up and are to be brought under ART services.

• NACP: Government launched a Central Sector Scheme – National AIDS Control Programme (NACP). India has successfully achieved the 6th Millennium Development Goal (MDG 6) of halting and reversing the HIV epidemic.

• India has successfully achieved the 6th Millennium Development Goal (MDG 6) of halting and reversing the HIV epidemic.

• Preventive measures:For preventing HIV/AIDS transmission from mother to child, Prevention from Parent to Child Transmission (PPTCT) programme have been integrated with the RCH programme. PALS (PPTCT ART Linkages Software) System has also been launched to maintain details of all HIV positive pregnant and breast-feeding women and their new-born babies.

• Prevention from Parent to Child Transmission (PPTCT) programme have been integrated with the RCH programme.

• PALS (PPTCT ART Linkages Software) System has also been launched to maintain details of all HIV positive pregnant and breast-feeding women and their new-born babies.

• 90:90:90 strategy:Government would be implementing the 90:90:90 strategy as adopted by UNAIDS. It is a new HIV treatment that lays the groundwork to end the AIDS epidemic.

• HIV Sensitive social protection portalhas been launched to help officials and counsellors.

• India has extended support to the African countries in their fight against HIV-AID which reflects India’s global commitment.

Inequalities and stigma faced by HIV survivors

• Human rights issues: Stigma towards people living with HIV is widespread. The most affected groups are often marginalised, have little or no access to legal protection of their basic human rights. Steps must be taken to further reduce the stigma.

• Discrimination: Most often than not, people with HIV/AIDS are abandoned by their families and are forced to live in destitution, resulting in psychological devastation.

• Social and Economic: The main social and economic impacts for people living with HIV are loss of labour or education due to illness and increased expense of healthcare and transport. The compounding of these impacts often leads to increased levels of poverty, food insecurity and nutrition problems.

• The compounding of these impacts often leads to increased levels of poverty, food insecurity and nutrition problems.

• Social boycott: There is denial, termination, discontinuation or unfair treatment with regard to employment, education, health care, residing or renting property, standing for public or private office, and insurance.

Way forward

• The need is to adopt a holistic approach to successfully combat discrimination against the infected and the vulnerable and create safe spaces for them.

• The next important step will be public education as acceptance of HIV/AIDS patients in society is still a challenge

• For ensuring ‘Jan Swasthya’, it’s important to collate efforts in a strategic manner for achieving the country’s goals by leaving no one behind as desired by Sustainable Development Goals

• HIV and AIDS (Prevention and Control) Act, 2017: The Act seeks to prevent and control the spread of HIV and AIDS. Prohibits discrimination against persons with HIV and AIDS. Provides for informed consent and confidentiality with regard to their treatment. Places obligations on establishments to safeguard their rights.

• Prohibits discrimination against persons with HIV and AIDS.

• Provides for informed consent and confidentiality with regard to their treatment.

• Places obligations on establishments to safeguard their rights.

General Studies – 3

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

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

4. Project Tiger has put the species on an assured course of recovery from the brink of extinction, apart from conserving the floral and faunal genetic diversity in our ecosystem. Examine. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Tough

Reference: Insights on India

Why the question: The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 3 and mentioned as part of Mission-2024 Secure timetable. Key Demand of the question: To write about the achievements of project tiger in India. 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 explaining the aims and objectives behind the launch of project tiger. Body: First, write about the crisis in tiger population before the launch of Project Tiger. Mention the steps that were introduced as part of tiger conservation efforts. Next, evaluate in success in achieving improvements in tiger numbers. Also, mention the various how it also conserved the local flora and fauna of ecosystems. Conclusion: Conclude by stressing on the need to keep up the conservation efforts.

Why the question:

The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 3 and mentioned as part of Mission-2024 Secure timetable.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the achievements of project tiger in India.

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 explaining the aims and objectives behind the launch of project tiger.

First, write about the crisis in tiger population before the launch of Project Tiger. Mention the steps that were introduced as part of tiger conservation efforts.

Next, evaluate in success in achieving improvements in tiger numbers. Also, mention the various how it also conserved the local flora and fauna of ecosystems.

Conclusion:

Conclude by stressing on the need to keep up the conservation efforts.

Introduction

Tigers are at the top of the food chain and are sometimes referred to as “umbrella species” that is their conservation also conserve many other species in the same area.

According to results of the Tiger census, the total count of tigers has risen to 2,967 in 2018 from 2,226 in 2014 which is an increase of 741 individuals (aged more than one year), or 33%, in four years. The Tiger estimation exercise that includes habitat assessment and prey estimation reflects the success or failure of Tiger conservation efforts.

Threat faced by Tiger population

• Less than a hundred years ago, tigers prowled all across India and the sub-continent. But growing human populations, particularly since the 1940s,have contracted and fragmented the tiger’s former range.

• For over thousand years, tigers have been hunted as status symbol, decorative item such as wall and floor covering, as souvenirs and curios, and for use intraditional Asian medicines.

• Hunting for sportprobably caused the greatest decline in tiger populations until the 1930s.

• In the early 1990s, trade in tiger bone for traditional Asian medicines threatened to drive tigers to extinction in the wild.

• Poaching is the largest immediate threat to the remaining tiger population.

• Large-scale habitat destruction and decimation of prey populations are the major long-term threats to the existence of the dwindling tiger population in the country.

• And along with habitat, tigers have also suffered a severe loss of natural preypopulations – in particular ungulates such as deer and antelopes.

Other challenges to tiger conservation

Funds from Project Tiger as well as the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management & Planning Authority (CAMPA) were used to finance the project to bring African cheetahs to India, the Union government told Parliament December 19, 2022.

Project Tiger: Aims and objectives

More than 80% of the world’s wild tigers are in India, and it’s crucial to keep track of their numbers and conserve their population. The Government of India launched the Project Tiger with the aim of saving the steadily declining population of tigers in India on 1 April 1973.

• Objectives: To reduce factors that cause the diminishing of tiger habitats and manage them. Ensure a viable tiger population for scientific, ecological, economic, aesthetic and cultural values.

• Ensure a viable tiger population for scientific, ecological, economic, aesthetic and cultural values.

• The administrating body for the project is the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA). The NTCA was formed in 2005 as per the recommendations of the Tiger Task Force. Under the organisation, there are eight Conservations Units each headed by a director who is responsible for his/her reserve area.

• The NTCA was formed in 2005 as per the recommendations of the Tiger Task Force. Under the organisation, there are eight Conservations Units each headed by a director who is responsible for his/her reserve area.

• The reserves are created and functioned on a core/buffer strategy. That is, the core areas have the legal status of a national park or sanctuary in India. The buffer areas form the peripheral region and are a combination of forest and non-forest lands. The project purposes of adopting an exclusive tiger agenda in the core areas and an inclusive people-centric approach in the buffer regions.

• The buffer areas form the peripheral region and are a combination of forest and non-forest lands.

• The project purposes of adopting an exclusive tiger agenda in the core areas and an inclusive people-centric approach in the buffer regions.

• The project, apart from preserving the habitats of the tigers in their ecological purity, also does the job of conducting tiger census in the country. It also combats poaching.

• The project is in the process of creating a national database of individual tigers with photos so that seized body parts or dead tigers can be traced.

• The Monitoring System for Tigers – Intensive Protection and Ecological Status, or M-STrIPES was launched in 2010 and is a software-based monitoring system for tigers.

Way forward and Conclusion

• We have to create a healthy balance between sustainability and development.

• Forest corridorslinking protected areas must be maintained where they exist.

• Existing habitats have to be surveyed and improved to provide food for the elephants

• Local communitiesneed to be educated to have reduced stress levels in elephants during conflict mitigation, no fire, no firecracker and no mob crowds.

• There is a need for a monitoring mechanismwhich will record and disperse information on such conflicts

• Experts suggest the other way to reduce the man-animal conflict is to increase the population of wild ungulates, namely hares and the wild boars, both of which are prolific breeders, as a prey for wild carnivores. Separate big enclosures can be made in the jungles to breed them. The excess stock can be released in the jungles at regular intervals for the wild carnivores to prey upon.

• In order to be truly effective, prevention of human-wildlife conflict has to involve the full scope of society: international organizations, governments, NGOs, communities, consumers and individuals. Solutions are possible, but often they also need to have financial backing for their support and development.

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

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

5. Wildlife sanctuaries and national parks are confronted with a grave threat as they experience habitat loss and fragmentation due to various developmental projects and encroachment activities. Analyse. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Easy

Reference: Insights on India

Why the question: The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 3 and mentioned as part of Mission-2024 Secure timetable. Key Demand of the question: To write about the threats faced by the wildlife sanctuaries and national parks in India. 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 mentioning that The Union Government has established a country-wide protected area network for protection of these species and their habitats of threatened flora and fauna under Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972. Body: First, write about the threats to wildlife sanctuaries and national parks from habitat loss. Substantiate with examples. For e.g: Clearance of partis of Valley of flowers for Chardham road project. Next, write the reasons for decline in key species – due to over-collection to supply domestic and foreign medicinal markets, over exploitation, forest degradation etc. Conclusion: Conclude by writing a way forward.

Why the question:

The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 3 and mentioned as part of Mission-2024 Secure timetable.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the threats faced by the wildlife sanctuaries and national parks in India.

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 mentioning that The Union Government has established a country-wide protected area network for protection of these species and their habitats of threatened flora and fauna under Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.

First, write about the threats to wildlife sanctuaries and national parks from habitat loss. Substantiate with examples. For e.g: Clearance of partis of Valley of flowers for Chardham road project.

Next, write the reasons for decline in key species – due to over-collection to supply domestic and foreign medicinal markets, over exploitation, forest degradation etc.

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing a way forward.

Introduction

India has around 5% of its geographical area as protected area with 566 existing wildlife sanctuaries and 104 existing national parks in India. Despite being party to CITES and enacting Wildlife protection Act in India, there are many conservation challenges faced by sanctuaries and national parks.

Threats faced by wildlife sanctuaries and national parks

• Habitat loss: Due to flood and siltation, size of water bodies inside the park are shrinking. Siltation also affects the grazing areas of herbivorous animals.

• Invasive species such as water hyacinth and Mimosa are great threats to Kaziranga. Water hyacinth clog water bodies and depletes oxygen in the water. It threatens underwater life and shrinks the size of water bodies. Exotic leguminous species Mimosa was introduced in Tea gardens of Assam.The species have a poisonous amino acid (Mimosin). So, they are harmful for herbivorous

• It threatens underwater life and shrinks the size of water bodies.

• Exotic leguminous species Mimosa was introduced in Tea gardens of Assam.The species have a poisonous amino acid (Mimosin). So, they are harmful for herbivorous

• Man-animal conflicts: No park exists in isolation, and that fact is becoming increasingly clear as the areas surrounding parks are developed for living space, agriculture, mining, forestry, and more. The iconic species protected inside the parks don’t recognize boundaries and must often move in and out of the parks to feed, mate, or migrate. Avani Tigress was killed due to public backlash.

• The iconic species protected inside the parks don’t recognize boundaries and must often move in and out of the parks to feed, mate, or migrate.

• Avani Tigress was killed due to public backlash.

• Roads through sanctuaries:Experts found as many as 85 roadkills in the past six months within the sanctuary limits. There is uncontrolled passage of heavy vehicles during night-time threatening biodiversity.

• There is uncontrolled passage of heavy vehicles during night-time threatening biodiversity.

• Poor conservation infrastructure:The rangers and frontline staff deployed in many parks and sanctuaries lacks modern weapons, advanced communication systems and efficient means of transportation. There is also lack of proper camps and watch towers.

• Human interference:Illegal livestock grazing, illegal fishing, unplanned tourism infrastructure, highway traffic, tourism pressure, crop raiding, etc. Mining, petroleum prospecting,clear-cut lumbering, and other developments are generally prohibited inside parks—but they still pose serious threats to water quality, clean air, and other vital aspects of the park environment.

• Mining, petroleum prospecting,clear-cut lumbering, and other developments are generally prohibited inside parks—but they still pose serious threats to water quality, clean air, and other vital aspects of the park environment.

Need of the hour

• WWF-India Eco-development project aims to develop a model programme that can be used all over the country to help resolve this conflict.

• Involve local communities in decision making like Critical tiger habitats Gram Sabha is given importance similar to the forest rights act.

• Implementing the Gadgil committee and K Kasturirangan committee and not to water down the original recommendations.

• Patrolling and wildlife monitoring had to be taken up on a priority basis and scientific studies to ascertain the status of key species have been undertaken with the help of research organizations.

• Participation of local communities: The participation of local youth has been actively sought for the management of Manas and its buffer regions. These youth were employed as conservation volunteers on a monthly stipend and ration. They assisted the forest department in surveillance and patrolling activities. With the help of national and international nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), some of the youth were alsotrained to act as nature guides for small ecotourism enterprises.

• These youth were employed as conservation volunteers on a monthly stipend and ration.

• They assisted the forest department in surveillance and patrolling activities.

• With the help of national and international nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), some of the youth were alsotrained to act as nature guides for small ecotourism enterprises.

Conclusion

The wildlife sanctuaries and national parks are established to provide protection to the endangered species. It is relatively hard to always relocate the animals from their natural territory, therefore, conserving them in their normal setting is advantageous. On of wildlife has major impact on entire human race and therefore must be taken up on war footing.

Measures and interest need to be channeled towards regrowing trees and increasing the land cover for forests. Reforestation and afforestation need to be promoted throughout the world. Proper forest management bodies need to be enforced to monitor wildlife actions and update on the latest. Care and habitation need to be provided to extinct species and efforts need to be taken to save them from becoming extinct.

General Studies – 4

Topic: Aptitude and foundational values for Civil Service, integrity, impartiality and nonpartisanship, objectivity, dedication to public service, empathy, tolerance and compassion towards the weaker-sections.

Topic: Aptitude and foundational values for Civil Service, integrity, impartiality and nonpartisanship, objectivity, dedication to public service, empathy, tolerance and compassion towards the weaker-sections.

6. Integrity isn’t fidelity to your beliefs. It’s fidelity to seeking the truth. Comment. (150 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Why the question: The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 4. Directive Word: Comment- here we must express our knowledge and understanding of the issue and form an overall opinion thereupon. Structure of the answer: Introduction: Begin by giving a definition of Integrity. Body: Write about the various dimensions of Integrity and mention how it is important to uphold the value for the purpose of the value in itself as promoting truth and not as an aspect of one’s belief with few examples. Conclusion: Summarise by highlighting the aspects stressed in body of the answer and conclude Integrity as a core aspect of truth.

Why the question:

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

Directive Word:

Comment- here we must express our knowledge and understanding of the issue and form an overall opinion thereupon.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Begin by giving a definition of Integrity.

Write about the various dimensions of Integrity and mention how it is important to uphold the value for the purpose of the value in itself as promoting truth and not as an aspect of one’s belief with few examples.

Conclusion:

Summarise by highlighting the aspects stressed in body of the answer and conclude Integrity as a core aspect of truth.

Introduction

Integrity is the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles, or moral uprightness. It is a personal choice to hold one’s self to consistent standards. One can describe a person as having ethical integrity to the extent that the individual’s actions, beliefs, methods, measures and principles all derive from a single core group of values. An individual must therefore be flexible and willing to adjust these values to maintain consistency when these values are challenged such as when an expected test result is not congruent with all observed outcomes.

Integrity can be described as the strength of someone’s honesty and ethical standing. A person with strong integrity is less likely to be influenced by those of a lesser moral value. You can have honesty without integrity, but you cannot have integrity without honesty.

For instance, a person finds a wallet on the side of the road pick it up and takes it for himself. When questioned by a family member as to who the wallet belongs the person states his intention that he found it and intends to keep it. The person is exhibiting the trait of honesty but not integrity as he makes no effort to return the wallet to the rightful owner. He is stealing essentially even if he is been honest.

Honesty is about telling the truth, both in word and deed. Integrity goes a bit further. It means being true to who you are, what you say, and what you believe. And doing so even when no one is around to see.

For instance, before students enter the taekwondo training floor, they bow to the national flags kept there as a sign of respect. But even when no one is around a person of integrity bows. Integrity demands that you make that sign of respect, that bow, even if no one in the world is around to see you do it.

Thus, integrity is not just being in sync with your beliefs only, but it is all about being in line with Truth, even when none is watching you.

Conclusion

Integrity is a personal choice, an uncompromising and consistent commitment to honour moral, ethical, spiritual and artistic values and principles. Integrity compels us to be socially conscious and to welcome both personal and professional responsibility. Its values encourage us to be honest in all our dealings and committed to a lifelong search for truth and justice. It requires self-discipline and will power capable of resisting temptation. Its priceless reward is peace of mind and true dignity. There’s one proviso, no one can guarantee that his or her particular version of integrity is actually sound and true, and not misguided.

Topic: Ethics and Human Interface: Essence, determinants and consequences of Ethics in-human actions;

Topic: Ethics and Human Interface: Essence, determinants and consequences of Ethics in-human actions;

7. Write a short note on deontological ethics. (150 words)

Difficulty Level: Moderate

Reference: Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude by Lexicon Publications.

Why the question: The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 4, Key Demand of the question: To write about deontological ethics in detail. Structure of the answer: Introduction: Begin by defining deontology. Body: Explain that Deontology is duty ethics, so it compares a person’s actions against some duty or imperative. Discuss the rationale behind it. Write about the significance of the deontological ethics and with suitable illustrations explain it. Write about its critique. Conclusion: Completed by summarising their importance.

Why the question:

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

Key Demand of the question:

To write about deontological ethics in detail.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Begin by defining deontology.

Explain that Deontology is duty ethics, so it compares a person’s actions against some duty or imperative. Discuss the rationale behind it. Write about the significance of the deontological ethics and with suitable illustrations explain it. Write about its critique.

Conclusion:

Completed by summarising their importance.

Introduction

Deontology is also referred to as duty-based ethics. Deontological ethics focuses on how actions follow certain moral rules. So, the action is judged rather than the consequences of the action. The biggest proponent of deontological ethics was Immanuel Kant who said that moral rules should be adhered to if universalising the opposite would make an impossible world

Deontological (duty-based) ethics are concerned with what people do, not with the consequences of their actions.

• Do the right thing.

• Do it because it’s the right thing to do.

• Don’t do wrong things.

• Avoid them because they are wrong.

It is based on each individual’s duty or obligation towards each other, all living things, and the environment based on moral beliefs and values. It teaches about always acting in good faith and adheres to the Golden Rule to treat others the way you want to be treated by them.

Examples

• The Ten Commandments are examples of deontology.

• In Mahabharata, during Kurukshetra battle Arjun finds himself in ethical dilemma while attacking his kinships. At that time Krishna talks about Deontological Ethics suggesting to focus on rightful duty and not on the Consequences and deaths while delivering the rightful duty.

• Similarly, whole Geeta is based on “Detachment of oneself with consequence and focussing on Duty”

Deontological ethics place special emphasis on the relationship between duty and the morality of human actions

• Emphasises the value of every human being Duty-based ethical systems tend to focus on giving equal respect to all human beings. This provides a basis for human rights – it forces due regard to be given to the interests of a single person even when those are at odds with the interests of a larger group.

• Duty-based ethical systems tend to focus on giving equal respect to all human beings. This provides a basis for human rights – it forces due regard to be given to the interests of a single person even when those are at odds with the interests of a larger group.

• It creates a level of personal responsibility. Deontology also asks that people act as if they were responsible for creating laws and expectations within their society. Actions should only be taken in a way that would harmonize society if all the laws and procedures enacted were to harmonize. Creating disharmony would be considered ethically wrong, so it would be an action to be avoided.

• Deontology also asks that people act as if they were responsible for creating laws and expectations within their society. Actions should only be taken in a way that would harmonize society if all the laws and procedures enacted were to harmonize. Creating disharmony would be considered ethically wrong, so it would be an action to be avoided.

• It creates a guideline to follow. In deontology, right is always “right” and wrong is always “wrong.” There are no exceptions to this black-and-white concept, even if the situations rise to the extreme. It is a process where all members of a society can aspire to be virtuous because they understand what is expected of them from an ethical standpoint.

• In deontology, right is always “right” and wrong is always “wrong.” There are no exceptions to this black-and-white concept, even if the situations rise to the extreme. It is a process where all members of a society can aspire to be virtuous because they understand what is expected of them from an ethical standpoint.

• It offers motivation. People hesitate when making decisions because they fear what the consequence of a decision will be. In deontology, the consequence is taken out of consideration. Only the action is evaluated for “right” or “wrong,” so that creates a better level of motivation to make decisions.

• People hesitate when making decisions because they fear what the consequence of a decision will be. In deontology, the consequence is taken out of consideration. Only the action is evaluated for “right” or “wrong,” so that creates a better level of motivation to make decisions.

• It delivers justice. Deontology may offer an individualized perspective, but there are no shades of gray within this ethical approach. It is a black-and-white evaluation process. Something is either “right” or “wrong,” which dictates that the individual must always choose the option that is “right.”

• Deontology may offer an individualized perspective, but there are no shades of gray within this ethical approach. It is a black-and-white evaluation process. Something is either “right” or “wrong,” which dictates that the individual must always choose the option that is “right.”

• It can still operate under objective guidelines. Deontology can create similarities between individuals with like-minded ethics. It is also something that can be handed down from generation to generation. Individuals can learn what is consistently “right” and consistently “wrong” and teach that knowledge to others.

• Deontology can create similarities between individuals with like-minded ethics. It is also something that can be handed down from generation to generation. Individuals can learn what is consistently “right” and consistently “wrong” and teach that knowledge to others.

Conclusion

Deontology is simple to apply. It just requires that people follow the rules and do their duty. This approach tends to fit well with our natural intuition about what is or isn’t ethical. Unlike consequentialism, which judges actions by their results, deontology doesn’t require weighing the costs and benefits of a situation. This avoids subjectivity and uncertainty because one only has to follow set rules

*Value addition*

*The advantages of Deontological ethics are*

• Emphasises the value of every human being Duty-based ethical systems tend to focus on giving equal respect to all human beings. This provides a basis for human rights – it forces due regard to be given to the interests of a single person even when those are at odds with the interests of a larger group.

• It creates a level of personal responsibility. Deontology also asks that people act as if they were responsible for creating laws and expectations within their society. Actions should only be taken in a way that would harmonize society if all the laws and procedures enacted were to harmonize. Creating disharmony would be considered ethically wrong, so it would be an action to be avoided.

• It creates a guideline to follow. In deontology, right is always “right” and wrong is always “wrong.” There are no exceptions to this black-and-white concept, even if the situations rise to the extreme. It is a process where all members of a society can aspire to be virtuous because they understand what is expected of them from an ethical standpoint.

• It offers motivation. People hesitate when making decisions because they fear what the consequence of a decision will be. In deontology, the consequence is taken out of consideration. Only the action is evaluated for “right” or “wrong,” so that creates a better level of motivation to make decisions.

• It delivers justice. Deontology may offer an individualized perspective, but there are no shades of gray within this ethical approach. It is a black-and-white evaluation process. Something is either “right” or “wrong,” which dictates that the individual must always choose the option that is “right.”

• It can still operate under objective guidelines. Deontology can create similarities between individuals with like-minded ethics. It is also something that can be handed down from generation to generation. Individuals can learn what is consistently “right” and consistently “wrong” and teach that knowledge to others.

*There are few shortcomings too*

• Duty-based ethics sets absolute rules. The only way of dealing with cases that don’t seem to fit is to build a list of exceptions to the rule.

• Allows acts that make the world a less good place

• Because duty-based ethics is not interested in the results it can lead to courses of action that produce a reduction in the overall happiness of the world.

• No consequences are considered. Deontology looks at the action be taken on its own. There is no consideration given to the consequence of an action. Even though the concepts of “right” and “wrong” can be taught to others, it is up to each person to decide their individualized ethics.

• It is selfish. At its core, deontology only considers the individual and what is best for that person, at that time. There is no thought of others, of culture, or of society. It focuses on each decision, in the moment, and determines the ethics of that choice at that time.

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