[Mission 2024] Insights SECURE SYNOPSIS: 14 March 2024
Kartavya Desk Staff
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: Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora.
Topic: Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora.
1. As there are significant opportunities associated with an India-UK Free Trade Agreement, realizing its full potential would lead to mutual benefits and sustainable economic growth for both countries. Examine. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Tough
Reference: The Hindu
Why the question: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak spoke over the phone, assessing the progress made on negotiating a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), as both countries face general elections. Key Demand of the question: To write about the advantages of FTA for India-U.K while taking in to account potential bottlenecks. 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 writing about FTA in the context of India-U.K relations. Body: In first part, give the historical ties between the two nations in brief and current status of bilateral relations. Next, write about potential benefits of FTA for both the countries especially in aftermath of the disruptions caused by Brexit and Covid-19 pandemic. Mention trade, diaspora, collaboration etc. Mention, the potential bottlenecks such as non-tariff barriers, IP protection and Tariff’s etc. Conclusion: Conclude with way forward for the potential realisation of the FTA.
Why the question:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak spoke over the phone, assessing the progress made on negotiating a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), as both countries face general elections.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about the advantages of FTA for India-U.K while taking in to account potential bottlenecks.
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 writing about FTA in the context of India-U.K relations.
In first part, give the historical ties between the two nations in brief and current status of bilateral relations.
Next, write about potential benefits of FTA for both the countries especially in aftermath of the disruptions caused by Brexit and Covid-19 pandemic. Mention trade, diaspora, collaboration etc.
Mention, the potential bottlenecks such as non-tariff barriers, IP protection and Tariff’s etc.
Conclusion:
Conclude with way forward for the potential realisation of the FTA.
Introduction
India and UK have completed multiple rounds of talks for free trade agreement (FTA). Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak spoke over the phone, assessing the progress made on negotiating a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), as both countries face general elections.
The Indian economy’s future is an exciting one, with the prospect of new technologies, growing businesses and better jobs for its citizens. The UK has the skills and experience to aid this progress.
India UK relations
• Trade and investments: Trade between India and UK touched $5 billion with a $2 billion trade surplus in favour of India. UK is the 4th largest inward investor in India accounting for around 7% of all foreign direct investment into India. India is the second largest investor in the UK. There are 842 Indian companies in the UK, employing more than 110,000 people. o This year, both sides agreed to establish ‘Enhanced Trade Partnership’, which is the first step towards a free trade agreement.
• UK is the 4th largest inward investor in India accounting for around 7% of all foreign direct investment into India.
• India is the second largest investor in the UK.
• There are 842 Indian companies in the UK, employing more than 110,000 people. o This year, both sides agreed to establish ‘Enhanced Trade Partnership’, which is the first step towards a free trade agreement.
• Defence Relations: Ajeya Warrior (army-to-army biennial exercise), the Konkan (joint navy-to-navy annual exercise) and the Indradhanush (joint air-to-air exercise) happens between India and UK. A bilateral Defence Consultative Group (DCG) meeting has taken place annually between the top officials of the Defence Ministry since 1995.
• A bilateral Defence Consultative Group (DCG) meeting has taken place annually between the top officials of the Defence Ministry since 1995.
• Diaspora: The year 2017 was declared as UK India year of Culture. The 2011 census records approximately 1.5 million people of Indian origin in the UK equating to almost 1.8 percent of the population and contributing 6% of the country’s GDP. In 2017 almost one million Britons visited India. Also, there has been a gradual mainstreaming of Indian culture and absorption of Indian cuisine, cinema, languages, religion, philosophy, performing arts, etc. in UK.
• The 2011 census records approximately 1.5 million people of Indian origin in the UK equating to almost 1.8 percent of the population and contributing 6% of the country’s GDP.
• In 2017 almost one million Britons visited India. Also, there has been a gradual mainstreaming of Indian culture and absorption of Indian cuisine, cinema, languages, religion, philosophy, performing arts, etc. in UK.
India UK FTA: Prospects
• By 2050, India will be the world’s third-largest economy with a middle class of almost 250 million shoppers.
• The UK wants to unlock this huge new market for the great British producers and manufacturers across numerous industries from food and drinks to services and automotive. It has the potential to boost bilateral trade by up to GBP 28 billion a year by 2035 and increase wages by up to GBP 3 billion across the UK.
• It has the potential to boost bilateral trade by up to GBP 28 billion a year by 2035 and increase wages by up to GBP 3 billion across the UK.
• A deal with India is also pegged as a “big step forward” in the UK’s post-Brexit strategy to refocus trade on the Indo-Pacific, home to half of the world’s population and 50 per cent of global economic growth.
• Reduction or elimination of customs duty under the pact would help Indian labour-intensive sectors like textiles, leather, gems and jewellery to boost exports in the UK market. The UK is seeking duty concessions in areas like Scotch whiskey and automobiles.
• India’s main exports to the UK include ready-made garments and textiles, gems and jewellery, engineering goods, petroleum and petrochemical products, transport equipment and parts, spices, metal products, machinery and instruments, pharma and marine items.
• Major imports include precious and semi-precious stones, ores and metal scraps, engineering goods, professional instruments, non-ferrous metals, chemicals and machinery.
• The UK is also a key investor in India. New Delhi attracted foreign direct investment of USD 1.64 billion in 2021-22. The figure was about USD 32 billion between April 2000 and March 2022.
• In the services sector, the UK is one of the largest markets in Europe for Indian IT services.
Conclusion
Through its Indo-Pacific tilt, the U.K. is finally carving out a direction and purpose to its post-Brexit foreign policy. And it is this prioritisation that has opened up a new window for New Delhi and London to quickly finalise their FTA.
India is showing a newfound flexibility in engaging with its partners on trade. Moreover, strategic partnerships without strong economic content would have no meaning in the Indo-Pacific, where China’s economic clout is growing by the day. It is a unique “now or never” moment and the two sides seem willing to seize it despite the challenges.
Topic: Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources
Topic: Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources
2. Limited funding for R&D often hampers innovation in India. However, by strategically investing in domains with high growth potential the government can attract both public and private funding. Analyse. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Moderate
Reference: The Hindu
Why the question: The announcement in the interim Budget for 2024-25, of a corpus of ₹1 lakh crore to bolster the research and innovation ecosystem within the country, has sparked enthusiasm within the scientific and research communities. Key Demand of the question: To write about the challenges it may face in establishing a comprehensive research ecosystem and steps to overcome it. 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 major impediment to R&D in the country – Funding, Infrastructure, collaboration, bureaucratic hurdles etc. Next, write about the steps that are needed to overcome the above. Conclusion: Conclude by writing a way forward.
Why the question:
The announcement in the interim Budget for 2024-25, of a corpus of ₹1 lakh crore to bolster the research and innovation ecosystem within the country, has sparked enthusiasm within the scientific and research communities.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about the challenges it may face in establishing a comprehensive research ecosystem and steps to overcome it.
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.
First, write about the major impediment to R&D in the country – Funding, Infrastructure, collaboration, bureaucratic hurdles etc.
Next, write about the steps that are needed to overcome the above.
Conclusion:
Conclude by writing a way forward.
Introduction
R&D of new products and solutions to diseases are key drivers of economic performance and social well-being. It is important to inculcate scientific temper among masses in order to fight superstitions and distorted truth.
India’s research and development (R&D) expenditure-GDP ratio of 0.7(zero point seven)% is very low when compared to major economies and is much below the world average of 1.8(one point eight)%. Interim Budget(2024-25) announced a corpus of ₹1 lakh crore to bolster the research and innovation ecosystem within the country.
Challenges to R&D Ecosystem in India
Challenges | Description
Infrastructure and Access to Resources | Access to reliable electricity, high-speed internet, and other basic amenities can hinder the development and diffusion of innovative technologies across the country
Low investment in R&D by the corporate sector | Corporate sector accounts for about two-thirds of gross domestic expenditure on R&D (GERD) in leading economies, Share in India–37%.
Education and Skilled Workforce | According to a Teamlease report, India will need 30 million digitally skilled professionals by 2026, and 50% of the current workforce will need to re-skill themselves in areas of emerging technologies.
‘Leaky pipe syndrome’ | It refers to the phenomenon where, at various stages of the research and academic career pipeline, there is a disproportionate loss of talent, particularly among women and underrepresented groups.
6% of Silicon Valley’s workforce is from India
Market Adoption and Scale-up | The Indian market is diverse and fragmented, making it crucial to address regional variations and cultural differences.
Patent protection regime and delay in acquiring patents | According to the Economic Survey 2021-22 of India, the average pendency for the final decision in acquiring patents in India is 42 months as of 2020. This is much higher than 20.8, 20, 15.8 and 15 months respectively for the USA, China, Korea and Japan.
Lack of mentorship | E.g., India’s gross enrolment ratio (GER) in higher education was 27.3 percent in 2020-21 indicating that a substantial portion of students do not pursue higher education.
Persisting gender gap | E.g., Women make up only 34% of the workforce in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), and men vastly outnumber women majoring in most STEM fields.
Measures needed
• Assess the current research and development (R&D) funding landscape in India and its resulting output: Examining India’s comparatively lower R&D expenditure as a percentage of GDP Output in terms of patent grants, PhDs awarded, and publication outputs. Analyzing the quality of output is imperative in understanding the true implications of these initiatives.
• Examining India’s comparatively lower R&D expenditure as a percentage of GDP
• Output in terms of patent grants, PhDs awarded, and publication outputs.
• Analyzing the quality of output is imperative in understanding the true implications of these initiatives.
• A multi-pronged approach involving diverse stakeholders is necessary to address the challenges and unlock the potential of R&D for India’s economic growth and competitiveness.
• Learning from the R&D ecosystem in other developed countrieswhile maintaining India’s strengths in streamlined decision-making and strategic alignment could be a powerful force to optimize its R&D landscape.
• India must implement policiesthat incentivise private companies to invest in R&D.
Way Forward
• India’s R&D ecosystem has its advantages in terms of efficiency, but could benefit more from strong private enterprises involvement and stronger industry-academia collaboration, facilitating knowledge transfer and fostering innovation.
• The recent enactment of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) Act, underscores the government’s dedication to catalyzing research and innovation as the cornerstone of development.
• This legislative move will bolster scientific research
• The Act aims to bridge India’s persistent R&D investment gap while nurturing a robust research culture within HEIs.
• This initiative must surmount challenges such as ensuring equitable fund distribution, fostering interdisciplinary collaborations, and upholding global standards.
• These efforts are poised to elevate R&D spending in India, providing strategic guidance for research, innovation, and entrepreneurship while encouraging greater private sector involvement.
• The interim Budget, combined with the NDTSP and ANRF Act, sends positive signals regarding India’s commitment to incentivising private sector-led research and innovation, particularly in burgeoning industries.
• Transforming India’s R&D statistics truly reflect the R&D ecosystem calls for short-term and medium-term measures.
• In the short term, the NSTMIS should use the patents granted data, both in India and the U.S., in addition to its current method to identify R&D performing enterprises.
Conclusion
Innovation and technological improvement is essential to combat and adapt to climate change and promote sustainable development. It is imperative for combating national security threats like cyber warfare.
General Studies – 3
Topic: Government Budgeting.
Topic: Government Budgeting.
3. The budget in India serves as a comprehensive policy document that goes beyond financial statements. 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 weaknesses in the budgetary system and measures to overcome them. 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 defining budget and major objectives of budgeting. Body: First, elaborate up on how budget provide framework of achieving annual objectives. Next, write about the weaknesses in the budgetary system and its implementation – budget estimates, Skewed expenditure pattern, Poor planning and lack of long-term perspective etc. Next, suggest measures to overcome the above weaknesses in order to ensure that budgetary objectives are achieved. 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 weaknesses in the budgetary system and measures to overcome them.
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 defining budget and major objectives of budgeting.
First, elaborate up on how budget provide framework of achieving annual objectives.
Next, write about the weaknesses in the budgetary system and its implementation – budget estimates, Skewed expenditure pattern, Poor planning and lack of long-term perspective etc.
Next, suggest measures to overcome the above weaknesses in order to ensure that budgetary objectives are achieved.
Conclusion:
Conclude by writing a way forward.
Introduction
A budget is a consolidated financial statement prepared by government on expected public expenditure and public revenue during a financial year. According to Article 112 of the Indian Constitution, the Union Budget of a year, also referred to as the annual financial statement, is a statement of the estimated receipts and expenditure of the government for that particular year.
The Interim Budget or the Vote on Account for 2024 was presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1, 2024 as the general elections are due in 2024.
how budget provide framework of achieving annual objectives
• Resource Allocation:Budgets outline financial resources allocated to various departments or projects, ensuring sufficient funding for achieving objectives.
• Priority Setting:By assigning specific amounts to different initiatives, budgets prioritize objectives based on their importance and impact.
• Cost Control:Budgets enforce cost management measures, preventing overspending and ensuring resources are used efficiently.
• Performance Evaluation:Budgets serve as benchmarks for assessing performance against planned objectives, facilitating adjustments if necessary.
• Strategic Alignment:Budgets align financial plans with strategic goals, ensuring that resources are directed towards activities that contribute to overall objectives.
• Decision Making:Budgets provide a basis for decision-making, guiding leaders on where to allocate resources to maximize outcomes.
• Flexibility:Budgets allow for adjustments throughout the year, accommodating changes in priorities or unforeseen circumstances while still working towards annual objectives.
• Communication Tool:Budgets communicate organizational priorities and expectations, ensuring alignment across teams towards common objectives.
Weaknesses in budgetary system
• Unrealistic budget estimates:The amounts budgeted are often not realistic. Weakness in preparing proper estimates leads to frequent revisions and supplementary budgets. On the other hand, there are major unspent provisions at the end of the year leading to march rush.
• On the other hand, there are major unspent provisions at the end of the year leading to march rush.
• Delay in implementation of projects:Resources are being spread thinly with only token provisions in some cases, often leading to inordinate delays in execution of projects.
• Skewed expenditure pattern:The expenditure pattern is skewed, with a major portion getting spent in the last quarter of the financial year, especially in the last month.
• Inadequate adherence to the multi-year perspective and missing ‘line of sight’ between plan and budget: Though the Five-year Plan provides the basis for multi-year perspective, oftenad hoc deviations from it distort the long-term plan objectives. The Plan schemes get dispersed into line-items in the budget estimates and there is no consolidation afterwards – both in the estimates and the final accounts. There is need for alignment between the plan, budgets and accounts.
• The Plan schemes get dispersed into line-items in the budget estimates and there is no consolidation afterwards – both in the estimates and the final accounts.
• There is need for alignment between the plan, budgets and accounts.
• No correlation between expenditure and actual implementation: The expenditure figures do not reflect actual expenditure made towards receipt of goods and services.
• Mis-stating of financial position:Parking of funds by implementing agencies, outside the government accounts portrays an incorrect picture of the financial position of government. This also means that the Government’s financial position is not known with reasonable accuracy at any given point of time.
• Ad hoc project announcements:Indiscriminate announcement of projects/schemes not included in the plan/budget is regularly made, often without proper consideration and detailing.
Measure needed
• Realistic assumptions: The assumptions made while formulating estimates must be realistic. At the end of each year the reasons for the gap between the ‘estimates’ and ‘actuals’ must be ascertained and efforts made to minimize them. These assumptions should also be subject to audit.
• These assumptions should also be subject to audit.
• The method of formulation of the annual budget by getting details from different organizations/units/ agencies and fitting them into a predetermined aggregate amount leads to unrealistic budget estimates. This method should be given up along with the method of budgeting on the basis of ‘analysis of trends’. This should be replaced by a ‘top-down’ method by indicating aggregate limits to expenditure to each organization/agency.
• This should be replaced by a ‘top-down’ method by indicating aggregate limits to expenditure to each organization/agency.
• Projects and schemes should be included in the budget only after detailed consideration. The norms for formulating the budget should be strictly adhered to in order to avoid making token provisions and spreading resources thinly over a large number of projects/schemes.
• No adhoc announcements: The practice of announcing projects and schemes on an ad-hoc basis in budgets and on important National Days, and during visits of dignitaries, functionaries to States needs to be stopped. Projects/schemes which are considered absolutely essential may be considered in the annual plans or at the time of mid-term appraisal.
• Projects/schemes which are considered absolutely essential may be considered in the annual plans or at the time of mid-term appraisal.
Conclusion
When it comes to budgeting, identifying areas of weakness helps the govt to allocate resources in a useful and sustainable manner. This is one of the most fundamental objectives behind framing a government budget. It’s important for the government to ensure that funds reach where it’s required the most. Therefore, using past data to identify sections of the society in need of economic welfare policies and implementing those policies helps the government demonstrate efficient governance and achieve economic stability in the country. A good budget is backed by evidence and data analysis.
Topic: Government Budgeting.
Topic: Government Budgeting.
4. An emphasis on capital expenditure will lead to investment in long-term assets such as infrastructure and development projects. This can have several positive impacts on the Indian economy. Elaborate. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Moderate
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 impact of increased capital expenditure on the economy of India. 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 defining a capital expenditure as part of the budget. Body: First, write about the various measures proposed in the Budget 2022 to boost capital expenditure in India. Next, write about the positive impact the increased capital expenditure will have on the economy of India – speedy and sustainable revival, crowding in private investment, boost to investment activity and support economic growth in the next year etc. Next, write the downside of increased capital expenditure – higher inflation, higher fiscal deficit etc. Conclusion: Conclude by writing a way forward to have a prudent increase in capital expenditure whilst adhering to fiscal limits of borrowing.
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 impact of increased capital expenditure on the economy of India.
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 defining a capital expenditure as part of the budget.
First, write about the various measures proposed in the Budget 2022 to boost capital expenditure in India.
Next, write about the positive impact the increased capital expenditure will have on the economy of India – speedy and sustainable revival, crowding in private investment, boost to investment activity and support economic growth in the next year etc.
Next, write the downside of increased capital expenditure – higher inflation, higher fiscal deficit etc.
Conclusion:
Conclude by writing a way forward to have a prudent increase in capital expenditure whilst adhering to fiscal limits of borrowing.
Introduction
Government expenditure is of two types—revenue expenditure and capital expenditure. Expenditure incurred by the government for operational expenses and liabilities is revenue expenditure. Salaries, wages, pensions, subsidies, interest on loans, grants made to state governments, etc., fall under this. Capital expenditure is money spent to create or acquire fixed assets—machinery, equipment, land, building, investment in shares, health facilities, education, purchase of new weaponry, etc. While capital expenditure creates assets for the future, revenue expenditure is recurring in nature.
Impact of emphasis on capital expenditure in the Union Budget will have on the Indian economy
• Capital expenditure, which leads to the creation of assets are long-term in nature and allow the economy to generate revenue for many years by adding or improving production facilities and boosting operational efficiency.
• Capital asset creation leads to value creation and has a multiplier effect on the economy.
• It also increases labour participation, takes stock of the economy and raises its capacity to produce more in future.
• The hike in capital expenditure will be a huge boost for the economy and for crowding in private investment to spur job creation.
• Virtuous cycle of investment expected to revive on the back of capex and crowd in private investment
• Capital investments play a huge role in ensuring speedy and sustained economic revival and consolidation by creating employment opportunities, inducing enhanced demand for manufactured inputs from large industries and MSMEs, services from professionals, and helping farmers through better agri-infrastructure.
• Increased government spending by way of awarding increased contracts also gives an impetus to private capital expenditure.
• Along with the creation of assets, repayment of loan is also capital expenditure, as it reduces liability.
• However, the government has to be cautious with the expenditure.
Conclusion
However, States also have an equally important role in capital expenditure. They carry a greater responsibility on capital formation than the central government. For public investment to flourish, States’ capital expenditure too has to grow.
*Value addition*
*Capital spending* is associated with investment or development spending, where expenditure has benefits extending years into the future. Capital expenditure includes money spent on the following:
• Acquiring fixed and intangible assets
• Upgrading an existing asset
• Repairing an existing asset
• Repayment of loan
Topic: Major crops-cropping patterns in various parts of the country, – different types of irrigation and irrigation systems storage, transport and marketing of agricultural produce and issues and related constraints; e-technology in the aid of farmers
Topic: Major crops-cropping patterns in various parts of the country, – different types of irrigation and irrigation systems storage, transport and marketing of agricultural produce and issues and related constraints; e-technology in the aid of farmers
5. What is agrobiodiversity? Discuss the role played by climate-smart agriculture (CSA) in preserving agrobiodiversity. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Moderate
Reference: Down to Earth , Insights on India
Why the question: In July 2023, Dasra, a strategic philanthropy organisation, along with think tank Observer Research Foundation (ORF) launched a report titled Our Uncommon Future: Intersectionality of Climate Change and SDGs in the Global South, which explores the impact of climate change on Sustainable Development Goals and on food insecurity and malnutrition. Key Demand of the question: To write about agrobiodiversity and the role climate smart agriculture can play in preserving it. Structure of the answer: Introduction: Begin by defining agrobiodiversity. Body: First, write about describing various threats faced agrobiodiversity in the country. Next, write about how climate smart agriculture can play a part in preserving it – increase sustainable productivity, strengthen farmers’ resilience, reduce agriculture’s greenhouse gas emissions and increase carbon sequestration. Substantiate with examples. Conclusion: Conclude by writing a way forward.
Why the question:
In July 2023, Dasra, a strategic philanthropy organisation, along with think tank Observer Research Foundation (ORF) launched a report titled Our Uncommon Future: Intersectionality of Climate Change and SDGs in the Global South, which explores the impact of climate change on Sustainable Development Goals and on food insecurity and malnutrition.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about agrobiodiversity and the role climate smart agriculture can play in preserving it.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by defining agrobiodiversity.
First, write about describing various threats faced agrobiodiversity in the country.
Next, write about how climate smart agriculture can play a part in preserving it – increase sustainable productivity, strengthen farmers’ resilience, reduce agriculture’s greenhouse gas emissions and increase carbon sequestration. Substantiate with examples.
Conclusion:
Conclude by writing a way forward.
Introduction
Agrobiodiversity is the result of natural selection processes and the careful selection and inventive developments of farmers, herders and fishers over millennia. Agrobiodiversity is a vital sub-set of biodiversity. Many people’s food and livelihood security depend on the sustained management of various biological resources that are important for food and agriculture.
In July 2023, Dasra, a strategic philanthropy organisation, along with think tank Observer Research Foundation (ORF) launched a report titled Our Uncommon Future: Intersectionality of Climate Change and SDGs in the Global South, which explores the impact of climate change on Sustainable Development Goals and on food insecurity and malnutrition.
Agricultural biodiversity, also known as agrobiodiversity or the genetic resources for food and agriculture, includes:
• Harvested crop varieties, livestock breeds, fish species and non domesticated (wild) resources within field, forest, rangeland including tree products, wild animals hunted for food and in aquatic ecosystems (e.g. wild fish);
• Non-harvested species in production ecosystems that support food provision, including soil micro-biota, pollinators and other insects such as bees, butterflies, earthworms, greenflies; and
• Non-harvested species in the wider environment that support food production ecosystems (agricultural, pastoral, forest and aquatic ecosystems).
AGROBIODIVERSITY IS CENTRAL TO OVERALL BIODIVERSITY
various threats faced agrobiodiversity in the country
· India’s agricultural ecosystem is distinguished by high monsoon dependence and with 85% small and marginal landholdings, it is highly sensitive to weather abnormalities.
· There has been less than normal rainfall during the last four years, with 2014 and 2015 declared as drought years.
· There are also reports of an escalation in heat waves, which in turn affecting crops, aquatic systems and livestock.
· The Economic Survey 2017-18 has estimated farm income losses between 15% and 18% on average, which could rise to 20%-25% for unirrigated areas without any policy interventions.
· Locally varied food production systems are under threat, including local knowledge and the culture and skills of women and men farmers.
· With this decline, agrobiodiversity is disappearing; the scale of the loss is extensive.
· With the disappearance of harvested species, varieties and breeds, a wide range of unharvested species also disappear.
· More than 90 percent of crop varieties have disappeared from farmers’ fields; half of the breeds of many domestic animals have been lost.
· In fisheries, all the world’s 17 main fishing grounds are now being fished at or above their sustainable limits, with many fish populations effectively becoming extinct.
· Loss of forest cover, coastal wetlands, other ‘wild’ uncultivated areas, and the destruction of the aquatic environment exacerbate the genetic erosion of agrobiodiversity.
· Fallow fields and wildlands can support large numbers of species useful to farmers. In addition to supplying calories and protein, wild foods supply vitamins and other essential micro-nutrients.
· In general, poor households rely on access to wild foods more than the wealthier.
· However, in some areas, pressure on the land is so great that wild food supplies have been exhausted.
Climate Smart Agriculture: Solving food security and climate change problems
• Increased productivity: Produce more food to improve food and nutrition security and boost the incomes of 75 percent of the world’s poor who live in rural areas and mainly rely on agriculture for their livelihoods.
• Enhanced resilience:Reduce vulnerability to drought, pests, disease, and other shocks; and improve capacity to adapt and grow in the face of longer-term stresses like shortened seasons and erratic weather patterns.
• Reduced emissions: Pursue lower emissions for each calorie or kilo of food produced, avoid deforestation from agriculture and identify ways to suck carbon out of the atmosphere.
• The climate-smart agriculture approach seeks to reduce trade-offs to make crop and livestock systems, forestry, and fisheries and aquaculture more productiveand more sustainable.
• Climate-smart agriculture explicitly looks for where there are synergies and trade-offs among food security, adaptation and mitigation. Climate smart agriculture works through several dimensions to reorient agricultural development and managementto take climate change into account.
• Management of farms, crops, livestock, aquaculture and capture fisheries to balance near-term food security and livelihoods needs with priorities for adaptation and mitigation.
• Ecosystem and landscape management to conserve ecosystem servicesthat are important for food security, agricultural development, adaptation and mitigation.
Way forward
• Farmers, especially smallholder farmers, need handholding during their scaling up to adopt CSA.
• Mobile telecommunicationsystems are increasingly cost-effective and an efficient way of delivering weather-based agro-advisories to farmers at a large scale (Kisan app). Radio (especially community radio), television, newspapers, folk media, and village level public address systems will also need to be used to bridge this “communication divide.”
• Weather-based agro-advisories must be locale-specific, crop-and farmer-specific; need to also recommend soil, water, and biodiversity conservation practices. Integrating this with Soil Health Card schemewill be a good step forward.
• Build adaptive capacities to climate variability and strengthen the sustainability of farming systems.
• On-site training and awareness campaigns, technology demonstrations, farmer-specialist interactions, and engagement with local governance bodies.
• Soil health and need-based irrigationmanagement need to be addressed adequately.
• Closer collaboration between public, civil society, and private technology and financial service providers so that farmers get access to accurate information, and affordable technologies.
Conclusion
Overall, climate-smart agriculture is a crucial approach for ensuring the sustainability and resilience of agricultural systems in the face of climate change, while also contributing to broader environmental and socio-economic goals.
General Studies – 4
Topic: Human Values – lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders, reformers and administrators;
Topic: Human Values – lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders, reformers and administrators;
6. What does this quote means to you? (150 words)
“The man who moves a mountain begins by carrying away small stones.” – Confucius
Difficulty level: Easy
Why the question: The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 4. Structure of the answer: Introduction: Begin by explaining the literal meaning of the quote. Body: Write about how all good things and things which have a massive impact start always small. Cite various examples to substantiate. Next, write that even things which have negative consequences start small. Cite examples from across the world. Conclusion: Summarise by highlighting the importance of the quote in the present day and that good things should be encouraged and negative things must be nipped in the bud.
Why the question:
The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 4.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by explaining the literal meaning of the quote.
Write about how all good things and things which have a massive impact start always small. Cite various examples to substantiate.
Next, write that even things which have negative consequences start small. Cite examples from across the world.
Conclusion:
Summarise by highlighting the importance of the quote in the present day and that good things should be encouraged and negative things must be nipped in the bud.
Introduction
The insightful quote by Confucius encapsulates the essence of perseverance, gradual progress, and the power of consistent effort. In simple terms, the quote means that monumental accomplishments must be achieved gradually. People want instant gratification but success in any endeavour requires patient, determined, self-discipline and persevering effort.
Perseverance and consistent efforts are the bedrock of achievement. They transform small steps into monumental progress, leading to success
The “mountain” here symbolizes a seemingly insurmountable goal, challenge, or task. It could be anything from achieving a personal milestone to making a significant impact in society. Just like moving an actual mountain, achieving substantial goals requires sustained effort, determination, and patience.
The Importance of Small Steps
“Carrying away small stones” represents the initial, seemingly insignificant actions taken toward a larger objective. These small steps may not appear significant individually, but collectively, they pave the way for progress. For instance, a writer completing a novel starts by writing a single sentence, then a paragraph, and eventually an entire book. Each word contributes to the final masterpiece.
Some illustrations where perseverance & consistent efforts bear fruits
• Education and Learning: A student aiming for academic excellence begins by mastering basic concepts. Gradually, they build a solid foundation, leading to more complex knowledge. Learning a new language involves starting with simple vocabulary and gradually expanding to fluency.
• A student aiming for academic excellence begins by mastering basic concepts. Gradually, they build a solid foundation, leading to more complex knowledge.
• Learning a new language involves starting with simple vocabulary and gradually expanding to fluency.
• Health and Fitness: Someone striving for physical fitness doesn’t immediately run a marathon. They start with short walks, then progress to longer distances. Incremental improvements in diet and exercise lead to long-term health benefits.
• Someone striving for physical fitness doesn’t immediately run a marathon. They start with short walks, then progress to longer distances.
• Incremental improvements in diet and exercise lead to long-term health benefits.
• Career and Professional Growth: Climbing the corporate ladder involves taking on small responsibilities, learning new skills, and consistently delivering results. Entrepreneurs build successful businesses by addressing small challenges daily.
• Climbing the corporate ladder involves taking on small responsibilities, learning new skills, and consistently delivering results.
• Entrepreneurs build successful businesses by addressing small challenges daily.
• Social Change and Advocacy: Activists advocating for social justice begin by raising awareness, organizing small events, and engaging with their community. Over time, these efforts contribute to systemic change.
• Activists advocating for social justice begin by raising awareness, organizing small events, and engaging with their community.
• Over time, these efforts contribute to systemic change.
• Relationships and Personal Development: Building strong relationships requires consistent gestures of kindness, understanding, and communication. Personal growth involves daily habits, such as reading, meditating, or practicing gratitude.
• Building strong relationships requires consistent gestures of kindness, understanding, and communication.
• Personal growth involves daily habits, such as reading, meditating, or practicing gratitude.
The quote emphasizes that persistence pays off. Even when progress seems slow, every small stone moved contributes to the ultimate achievement. By focusing on the present moment and taking deliberate steps, we eventually reach our goals.
Conclusion
Thus, the above quote by Confucius reminds us that greatness emerges from humble beginnings. Whether it’s moving a mountain or achieving personal aspirations, success lies in the accumulation of small efforts over time.
Topic: Human Values – lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders, reformers and administrators;
Topic: Human Values – lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders, reformers and administrators;
7. What does this quote means to you? (150 words)
“We must love them both, those whose opinions we share and those whose opinions we reject, for both have laboured in the search for truth, and both have helped us in finding it.” ― St. Thomas Aquinas
Difficulty level: Moderate
Why the question: The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 4. Structure of the answer: Introduction: Begin by explaining the literal meaning of the quote. Body: Write about diversity of opinion across various dimensions like ethics, politics, economics and society etc. Cite examples of the same. Mention, how just because there is an opposite opinion that it should not be discarded. Link as to how truth can be arrived by divergence of opinions. Substantiate with examples. Conclusion: Summarise by highlighting the importance of the quote in the present day.
Why the question:
The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 4.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by explaining the literal meaning of the quote.
Write about diversity of opinion across various dimensions like ethics, politics, economics and society etc. Cite examples of the same.
Mention, how just because there is an opposite opinion that it should not be discarded. Link as to how truth can be arrived by divergence of opinions. Substantiate with examples.
Conclusion:
Summarise by highlighting the importance of the quote in the present day.
Introduction
Diversity of opinion, on the other hand, is a different kind of diversity that is crucial to a society. Diversity of opinion is all about allowing and accepting various viewpoints on a topic without reservation. The wisdom encapsulated in this quote by St. Thomas Aquinas resonates deeply.
Rationale behind accepting diversity of opinions
• Embracing Diversity of Thought: Aquinas reminds us to embrace diversity in opinions. We encounter a rich tapestry of perspectives, each contributing to the collective pursuit of truth. Whether we agree or disagree, every opinion adds a thread to the fabric of understanding.
• Aquinas reminds us to embrace diversity in opinions.
• We encounter a rich tapestry of perspectives, each contributing to the collective pursuit of truth.
• Whether we agree or disagree, every opinion adds a thread to the fabric of understanding.
• Shared Endeavor in Truth-Seeking: The quest for truth is a shared endeavor. Those with whom we resonate and those whose views we challenge both play a role. Their labor, whether aligned or divergent, contributes to our intellectual growth.
• The quest for truth is a shared endeavor.
• Those with whom we resonate and those whose views we challenge both play a role.
• Their labor, whether aligned or divergent, contributes to our intellectual growth.
• Humility and Gratitude: Loving both allies and dissenters requires humility. We acknowledge that no one holds a monopoly on truth. Gratitude arises for the intellectual sparring that sharpens our minds.
• Loving both allies and dissenters requires humility.
• We acknowledge that no one holds a monopoly on truth.
• Gratitude arises for the intellectual sparring that sharpens our minds.
• Unity Amidst Disagreement: In the marketplace of ideas, we engage in dialogue. Even when opinions clash, we recognize the shared purpose: unearthing truth. Unity lies not in uniformity but in our common pursuit.
• In the marketplace of ideas, we engage in dialogue.
• Even when opinions clash, we recognize the shared purpose: unearthing truth.
• Unity lies not in uniformity but in our common pursuit.
• Intellectual Integrity: By honoring diverse viewpoints, we uphold intellectual integrity. We avoid echo chambers and cultivate a robust ecosystem of ideas. Both allies and challengers propel us toward deeper insights.
• By honoring diverse viewpoints, we uphold intellectual integrity.
• We avoid echo chambers and cultivate a robust ecosystem of ideas.
• Both allies and challengers propel us toward deeper insights.
Importance of being open to various opinions across various dimensions
• Ethics: Ethical perspectives diverge on issues like euthanasia, capital punishment, and animal rights. Some argue for mercy, while others prioritize justice.
• Ethical perspectives diverge on issues like euthanasia, capital punishment, and animal rights.
• Some argue for mercy, while others prioritize justice.
• Politics: Political ideologies span a spectrum from liberalismto conservatism. Debates on taxation, immigration, and climate changeshowcase diverse viewpoints.
• Political ideologies span a spectrum from liberalismto conservatism.
• Debates on taxation, immigration, and climate changeshowcase diverse viewpoints.
• Economics: Free-market capitalismversus socialism fuels economic discourse. Consider the debate over universal basic incomeor privatization.
• Free-market capitalismversus socialism fuels economic discourse.
• Consider the debate over universal basic incomeor privatization.
• Society: LGBTQ+ rights, gender equality, and racial justiceevoke contrasting opinions. The struggle for reservation policiesin India exemplifies societal diversity.
• LGBTQ+ rights, gender equality, and racial justiceevoke contrasting opinions.
• The struggle for reservation policiesin India exemplifies societal diversity.
Conclusion
In essence, Aquinas invites us to love the process of inquiry itself. Whether we stand side by side or across the divide, we are fellow seekers, labouring to illuminate the path of truth.
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