[Mission 2024] Insights SECURE SYNOPSIS: 22 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: geographical features and their location-changes in critical geographical features (including water-bodies and ice-caps) and in flora and fauna and the effects of such changes.
Topic: geographical features and their location-changes in critical geographical features (including water-bodies and ice-caps) and in flora and fauna and the effects of such changes.
1. Payments for Ecosystem Services (PES) incentivize landowners or communities to conserve natural resources by compensating them for maintaining or enhancing ecosystem services. Evaluate. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Tough
Reference: Down to Earth , Insights on India
Why the question: Incentives for biodiversity protection and sustainable use include biodiversity-relevant taxes, fees, levies, tradeable permits, and Payments for Ecosystem Services (PES). Key Demand of the question: To write about PES, its role in conserving biodiversity and its feasibility in India. Directive word: Evaluate – When you are asked to evaluate, you have to pass a sound judgement about the truth of the given statement in the question or the topic based on evidence. You must appraise the worth of the statement in question. There is scope for forming an opinion here. Structure of the answer: Introduction: Begin by defining PES. Body: First, write about the various components of PES which ensures conservation of biodiversity – fosters community conservation by providing economic benefits, empowering local stakeholders, supporting livelihoods, promoting social equity, and contributing to sustainable development. Next, write about the feasibility of PES in India – its pros and cons with respect to India socio-political set up. Conclusion: Conclude with a way forward.
Why the question:
Incentives for biodiversity protection and sustainable use include biodiversity-relevant taxes, fees, levies, tradeable permits, and Payments for Ecosystem Services (PES).
Key Demand of the question:
To write about PES, its role in conserving biodiversity and its feasibility in India.
Directive word:
Evaluate – When you are asked to evaluate, you have to pass a sound judgement about the truth of the given statement in the question or the topic based on evidence. You must appraise the worth of the statement in question. There is scope for forming an opinion here.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by defining PES.
First, write about the various components of PES which ensures conservation of biodiversity – fosters community conservation by providing economic benefits, empowering local stakeholders, supporting livelihoods, promoting social equity, and contributing to sustainable development.
Next, write about the feasibility of PES in India – its pros and cons with respect to India socio-political set up.
Conclusion:
Conclude with a way forward.
Introduction
The term “ecosystem services” refers to the diverse benefits that are derived from the natural environment. Examples include the supply of food, water and timber (provisioning services); the regulation of air quality, climate and flood risk (regulating services); opportunities for recreation, tourism and education (cultural services); and essential underlying functions such as soil formation and nutrient cycling (supporting services).
Payments for ecosystem services (PES) occur when the beneficiaries or users of an ecosystem service make payments to the providers of that service. In practice, this may take the form of a series of payments in return for receiving a flow of benefits or ecosystem services. Incentives for biodiversity protection and sustainable use include biodiversity-relevant taxes, fees, levies, tradeable permits, and Payments for Ecosystem Services (PES).
About Payments for ecosystem services (PES)
• PES is one way to conserve and increase ecosystem services. It works through the establishment of performance contracts.
• People who can help provide the desired ecosystem service are rewarded based on their actions, or the quantity and quality of the services themselves.
• PES presents a unique scope for incentivising local land stewards to manage threatened ecosystems. It has the potential to achieve the dual goals of conservation and poverty alleviation towards the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals.
• This places PES as one of the pivotal economic instruments for conservation.
Feasibility of Payments for ecosystem services (PES)
• PES has not achieved much attention either in the research or policy mandate in the Indian subcontinent.
• A local monitoring mechanism is the key to successfully implementing a PES programme. A study (Sardana 2019) conducted in the Kodagu district of Karnataka to restore native trees that grow in the understory of coffee plantations shows a successfully designed local institutional mechanism for PES implementation.
• However, the PES mechanism is yet to be implemented or even tested for efficacy. The results of such studies offer support for potential research funding in restoration financing. Impact evaluation studies that evaluate financial instruments’ performance in attaining biodiversity are also important.
• The results of such studies offer support for potential research funding in restoration financing. Impact evaluation studies that evaluate financial instruments’ performance in attaining biodiversity are also important.
• Incentives for biodiversity protection and sustainable use include biodiversity-relevant taxes, fees, levies, tradeable permits, and Payments for Ecosystem Services (PES). Through these economic instruments, governments can affect both public and private financing flows for biodiversity. India must work in this regard.
• Through these economic instruments, governments can affect both public and private financing flows for biodiversity.
• India must work in this regard.
• Mobilisation of biodiversity finance through pesticide levies, admission fees to natural parks, hunting and fishing permit fees, and the trade-in energy-saving certificates has gained governmental support and political will, but the mobilisation of private and public finance for PES has lacked lustre.
Conclusion
Additionally, a strong policy thrust, such as the TEEB India Initiative highlighting the economic consequences of the loss of biological diversity, would help prioritise ecosystem restoration financing through a direct approach. A global initiative such as the United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initiative to mobilise private sector finance to benefit people and the environment would help maintain the funds.
General Studies – 2
Topic: Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate.
Topic: Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate.
2. The statement from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) regarding Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) having the highest cost and lowest potential contribution to net emission reduction in both the energy and industry sectors suggests a critical assessment of CCS as a mitigation strategy. Analyse. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Tough
Reference: Indian Express , sciencedirect.com
Why the question: IPCC noted that CCS has the highest cost and lowest possible contribution to net emission reduction in both energy and industry sectors. Key Demand of the question: To write about carbon capture utilisation technologies and their pros and cons in mitigating emissions. 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: Briefly explain the concept of carbon capture utilisation technologies. Body: First, the coming of carbon capture utilisation technologies; Carbon Capture and Storage, is a technology which captures carbon dioxide (CO2) from the burning of coal and gas for power generation, and from the manufacturing of steel, cement and other industrial facilities. Next, write about the limitations of CCUS technologies – Cost Consideration, Complexity and Technological Challenges, Limited Impact on Emission Reductions etc. Conclusion: Conclude by writing a balanced opinion.
Why the question:
IPCC noted that CCS has the highest cost and lowest possible contribution to net emission reduction in both energy and industry sectors.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about carbon capture utilisation technologies and their pros and cons in mitigating emissions.
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:
Briefly explain the concept of carbon capture utilisation technologies.
First, the coming of carbon capture utilisation technologies; Carbon Capture and Storage, is a technology which captures carbon dioxide (CO2) from the burning of coal and gas for power generation, and from the manufacturing of steel, cement and other industrial facilities.
Next, write about the limitations of CCUS technologies – Cost Consideration, Complexity and Technological Challenges, Limited Impact on Emission Reductions etc.
Conclusion:
Conclude by writing a balanced opinion.
Introduction
Carbon capture utilization Storage (CCUS) refers to the recycling (collection, storages and then utilization) of carbon released from fossil fuels emissions. It is one of the flexibility phenomena under the Clean Development Mechanism of Kyoto Protocol.
The aim is to capture carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from point sources (especially industrial sources within the power, chemicals, cement, and steel sectors) in order to avoid the release of these gasses into the atmosphere. Next, the captured CO2 is converted into other components and products, such as chemical feedstocks, fuels or building materials, which are otherwise typically derived from fossil-based resources.
IPCC noted that CCS has the highest cost and lowest possible contribution to net emission reduction in both energy and industry sectors.
Potential of CCUS
• The captured carbon is recycled for producing economically valuable products and services. Captured carbon can be utilised in producing oil, via Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) or can be used to produce fuels (eg methane, methanol, aviation fuels, gasoline), construction material, chemicals, plastics and algae-based products such as fertilisers and animal feed.
• The costs associated with carbon capture can be partially offset by the revenue generated from the utilisation measures.
• CC helps in economic goods and use in core sector such as, Carbon neutral industries of methanol, ammonia/fertilizer, olefins for plastic, steel and power.
• Also helps to phase CO2 from atmosphere as CO2 leads to global warming.
• Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) and Carbon Capture and Utilization (CCU) technologies are two subsets of the overall larger set of crucial technologies that is collectively called Carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS).
Carbon Capture Technology for India:
• To tread the path of clean energy, India has to pursue different categories of carbon mitigation options, or the 4 R’s, i.e. reduce, reuse, recycle and remove,
• India had identified Carbon Capture Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) as a priority area in its Second Biennial Update Report that was submitted to UNFCCC.
• In 2019, IOCL signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), on a combined CCUS and Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) system.
• As per the MoU, CO₂ that is captured at IOCL’s Koyali refinery would be transported by pipeline to the nearby ONGC Gandhar oilfield in the state of Gujarat.
• Additionally, IOCL has also signed a similar MoU with Oil India Limited (OIL) for IOCL’s Digboi refinery to provide CO₂ for EOR at OIL’s Naharkatiya and Dikom oilfields in the state of Assam.
• India is also an active participant of the Carbon Capture Innovation Challenge under Mission Innovation (MI) and has launched a funding opportunity to the tune of $17 million in FY19 for 47 projects across the themes of carbon capture, sustainable biofuels and converting sunlight.
• India can look towards tackling emissions via a material efficiency approach, thereby addressing the dual challenge of resource scarcity and emission reduction. India has made some initial headways in the context of material efficiency. For instance, the Draft National Resource Efficiency Policy (NREP), 2019, represents a comprehensive framework for resource efficiency.
• In line with the notion of Circular Carbon Economy (CCE) model, India may consider broadening the scope of the issue of climate change and acknowledge the role played by high material consumption in contributing to the energy demand and by extension to emissions.
• According to a recent report by Ellen MacArthur Foundation and Material Economics (2019), while 55% of the emissions can be managed by mitigation pathways such as the use of renewable energy and adoption of energy efficiency measures, the remaining emissions can be tackled via the adoption of a circular economy model.
• The deepening of the carbon credit market may be pursued, additionally. (carbon credit are tradable certificate or permit representing the right to emit one tonne of carbon dioxide).
Global examples:
• China is largest producer of methanol produces using carbon capture technologies.
• South Africa has become world’s largest coal gasification based company.
Conclusion
Carbon capture utilisation technologies can play a key role not only in meeting CO2 emission reduction targets (such as the ones set by the Paris Agreement), but also in accelerating the transition to Circular Carbon Economy. As the technology matures and the associated costs fall further, India should consider designing policies and programs to encourage faster deployment.
General Studies – 3
Topic: Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life.
Topic: Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life.
3. What is Mixed Reality (MR)? MR has diverse applications, as well as associated concerns. Addressing these concerns is crucial for realizing MR’s potential responsibly. Examine. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Moderate
Reference: The Hindu , en.wikipedia.org
Why the question: When Apple unveiled its Vision Pro in June 2023, it called the device a “revolutionary spatial computer”. But most tech enthusiasts preferred calling it a ‘mixed reality headset’. Key Demand of the question: To write about MR, its applications and concerns. 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 defining MR. Body: First, write about the various applications of MR – gaming, education, enterprise, healthcare, and retail etc. Next, write about the concerns associated with it – privacy, health effects, ethics, accessibility, and the need for integration and standardization etc. Next, write about the measures that are needed to overcome the above issues. Conclusion: Conclude by writing a way forward.
Why the question:
When Apple unveiled its Vision Pro in June 2023, it called the device a “revolutionary spatial computer”. But most tech enthusiasts preferred calling it a ‘mixed reality headset’.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about MR, its applications and concerns.
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 defining MR.
First, write about the various applications of MR – gaming, education, enterprise, healthcare, and retail etc.
Next, write about the concerns associated with it – privacy, health effects, ethics, accessibility, and the need for integration and standardization etc.
Next, write about the measures that are needed to overcome the above issues.
Conclusion:
Conclude by writing a way forward.
Introduction
Mixed reality (MR) is a term referring to a live direct or indirect view of a physical, real-world environment whose elements are augmented by computer-generated sensory input, such as sound, graphics, labels or 3D (animated) models.
MR is a hybrid technology that combines AR and VR to provide an interactive virtual experience over the real world. It merges the real and virtual worlds to create a new environment where physical and 3D digital objects coexist and interact in real-time. With MR, the users are not totally removed from their real environment, like with VR.
When Apple unveiled its Vision Pro in June 2023, it called the device a “revolutionary spatial computer”. But most tech enthusiasts preferred calling it a ‘mixed reality headset’.
Applications
• Gaming and Entertainment: MR can revolutionize gaming by merging virtual objects with the real environment. Imagine battling virtual creatures in your living room or exploring historical sites through holographic overlays. Example: Pokémon GOcombines AR and MR, allowing players to catch Pokémon in real-world locations using their smartphones.
• MR can revolutionize gaming by merging virtual objects with the real environment. Imagine battling virtual creatures in your living room or exploring historical sites through holographic overlays.
• Example: Pokémon GOcombines AR and MR, allowing players to catch Pokémon in real-world locations using their smartphones.
• Education and Training: MR enhances learning experiences by visualizing complex concepts. Medical students can dissect virtual organs, and engineers can simulate machinery maintenance. Example: Microsoft HoloLensprovides interactive anatomy lessons for medical students.
• MR enhances learning experiences by visualizing complex concepts. Medical students can dissect virtual organs, and engineers can simulate machinery maintenance.
• Example: Microsoft HoloLensprovides interactive anatomy lessons for medical students.
• Enterprise and Industry: MR improves productivity by overlaying digital information on physical objects. Engineers can visualize 3D models during construction, and factory workers receive real-time instructions. Example: Forduses MR to design cars collaboratively and streamline assembly processes.
• MR improves productivity by overlaying digital information on physical objects. Engineers can visualize 3D models during construction, and factory workers receive real-time instructions.
• Example: Forduses MR to design cars collaboratively and streamline assembly processes.
• Healthcare and Rehabilitation: MR aids in medical visualization, surgical planning, and physical therapy. Surgeons can practice complex procedures, and stroke patients regain motor skills. Example: AccuVeinuses MR to visualize veins for easier blood draws.
• MR aids in medical visualization, surgical planning, and physical therapy. Surgeons can practice complex procedures, and stroke patients regain motor skills.
• Example: AccuVeinuses MR to visualize veins for easier blood draws.
• Retail and Marketing: MR enhances shopping experiences by allowing customers to virtually try products. Furniture buyers can see how a couch fits in their living room. Example: IKEA Placelets users visualize furniture in their homes using MR.
• MR enhances shopping experiences by allowing customers to virtually try products. Furniture buyers can see how a couch fits in their living room.
• Example: IKEA Placelets users visualize furniture in their homes using MR.
Challenges
• Privacy and Data Security: MR devices collect sensitive data about users’ surroundings. Ensuring data protection and preventing unauthorized access are critical. Example: Unauthorized access to a user’s home layout through MR glasses.
• MR devices collect sensitive data about users’ surroundings. Ensuring data protection and preventing unauthorized access are critical.
• Example: Unauthorized access to a user’s home layout through MR glasses.
• Health Effects: Prolonged MR use may cause eye strain, motion sickness, and fatigue. Balancing immersion with user comfort is essential. Example: Extended use of MR headsets leading to discomfort.
• Prolonged MR use may cause eye strain, motion sickness, and fatigue. Balancing immersion with user comfort is essential.
• Example: Extended use of MR headsets leading to discomfort.
• Ethical Considerations: MR can manipulate perception, blur reality, and create deepfakes. Ensuring responsible content creation and preventing misinformation are vital. Example: Misleading MR advertisements or altered historical events.
• MR can manipulate perception, blur reality, and create deepfakes. Ensuring responsible content creation and preventing misinformation are vital.
• Example: Misleading MR advertisements or altered historical events.
• Accessibility Challenges: MR experiences may exclude people with disabilities. Designing inclusive interfaces and addressing accessibility gaps are crucial. Example: Lack of MR solutions for visually impaired users.
• MR experiences may exclude people with disabilities. Designing inclusive interfaces and addressing accessibility gaps are crucial.
• Example: Lack of MR solutions for visually impaired users.
• Integration and Standardization: MR ecosystems involve various hardware, software, and platforms. Achieving seamless integration and industry standards is a challenge. Example: Compatibility issues between different MR devices.
• MR ecosystems involve various hardware, software, and platforms. Achieving seamless integration and industry standards is a challenge.
• Example: Compatibility issues between different MR devices.
Way forward
• Regulation and Guidelines: Governments and industry bodies should establish guidelines for MR development, usage, and privacy.
• Governments and industry bodies should establish guidelines for MR development, usage, and privacy.
• User Education: Educating users about MR risks, privacy settings, and safe practices is essential.
• Educating users about MR risks, privacy settings, and safe practices is essential.
• Collaboration: Developers, researchers, and policymakers must collaborate to address concerns collectively.
• Developers, researchers, and policymakers must collaborate to address concerns collectively.
• Ethical Design: MR creators should prioritize ethical content, transparency, and user well-being.
• MR creators should prioritize ethical content, transparency, and user well-being.
Conclusion
MR’s potential lies in its ability to transform how we interact with the world. Responsible development, user education, and ethical considerations will shape its impact positively.
Topic: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc.
Topic: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc.
4. India’s progress in infrastructure development in the recent past is commendable, but it must continue to address funding gaps, regulatory hurdles, and sustainability concerns, to fully harness the benefits of improved infrastructure. Discuss. (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 progress made in infrastructure, challenges and areas for improvement. Directive word: Discuss – This is an all-encompassing directive – you must debate on paper by going through the details of the issues concerned by examining each one of them. You must give reasons for both for and against arguments. Structure of the answer: Introduction: Begin by giving context. Body: First, Write the about the progress made in developing infrastructure in the country and major initiatives taken for it and its achievements. Next, write about the various limitations of the above – funding, slow paced development, environmental challenges etc. Next, write about the steps that are needed for increased investment in infrastructure to support economic growth and improve the quality of life. 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 progress made in infrastructure, challenges and areas for improvement.
Directive word:
Discuss – This is an all-encompassing directive – you must debate on paper by going through the details of the issues concerned by examining each one of them. You must give reasons for both for and against arguments.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by giving context.
First, Write the about the progress made in developing infrastructure in the country and major initiatives taken for it and its achievements.
Next, write about the various limitations of the above – funding, slow paced development, environmental challenges etc.
Next, write about the steps that are needed for increased investment in infrastructure to support economic growth and improve the quality of life.
Conclusion:
Conclude by writing a way forward.
Introduction
Infrastructure sector is a key driver for the Indian economy. The sector is highly responsible for propelling India’s overall development and enjoys intense focus from Government for initiating policies that would ensure time-bound creation of world class infrastructure in the country. Infrastructure sector includes power, bridges, dams, roads, and urban infrastructure development.
Basic infrastructure facilities in the country provide the foundation of growth. In the absence of adequate infrastructure, the economy operates at a suboptimal level and remains distant from its potential and frontier growth trajectory.
Background
The infrastructure sector will be the key to overall economic growth and macroeconomic stability, the Survey said emphasising that the year after the crisis (2021-22) will require sustained and calibrated measures to facilitate the process of economic recovery and enable the economy to get back on its long-term growth trajectory.
Role of infrastructure in transformation of economy leading to economic development
• Foundation for growth: Basic infrastructure facilities in the country provide the foundation of growth. In the absence of adequate infrastructure, the economy operates at a suboptimal level and remains distant from its potential and frontier growth trajectory.
• Basic infrastructure facilities in the country provide the foundation of growth.
• In the absence of adequate infrastructure, the economy operates at a suboptimal level and remains distant from its potential and frontier growth trajectory.
• Increases employment: Infrastructure development such as road construction, real estate, railway construction, etc. is labour intensive, leading to increase in employment opportunities in formal and informal sectors and thus, fuelling domestic demand.
• Infrastructure development such as road construction, real estate, railway construction, etc. is labour intensive, leading to increase in employment opportunities in formal and informal sectors and thus, fuelling domestic demand.
• Raises Farmer’s Income: Investment in infrastructure would play critical role in ensuring doubling of farmers income through focus on increased irrigation infrastructure and storage, processing and marketing infrastructure.
• Investment in infrastructure would play critical role in ensuring doubling of farmers income through focus on increased irrigation infrastructure and storage, processing and marketing infrastructure.
• Health and Well-being: Infrastructure development of superior healthcare facilities, electronic health records and better equipped health infrastructure at primary levels. (Telemedicine)
• Infrastructure development of superior healthcare facilities, electronic health records and better equipped health infrastructure at primary levels. (Telemedicine)
• Reduces Logistic Cost: Building world class roads, railways, ports, inland water ways, will cut down logistic costs and improve competitiveness and promote exports. This would bring more revenues to government and may promote socio – economic development.
• Building world class roads, railways, ports, inland water ways, will cut down logistic costs and improve competitiveness and promote exports.
• This would bring more revenues to government and may promote socio – economic development.
Major Policies on Infrastructure
• Government of India has launched National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP)in 2019, wherein it has planned to invest about INR 102 lakh crores on infrastructure projects by 2024-25.
• In 2020, NITI Aayog and Quality Council of India (QCI) launched the ‘National Program and Project Management Policy Framework’ (NPMPF).
• The government of India has launched the National Monetisation Pipeline (NMP), a roadmap for asset monetisation of various brownfield infrastructure assets across sectors.
• NMP will help in evolving a common framework for monetisation of core assets. The NMP estimates aggregate monetisation potential of Rs 6 lakh crores through core assets of the Central Government, over a four-year period, from FY 2022 to FY 2025.
• Union budget 2021-22 gave a massive push to infrastructure sector by allotting Rs 233083 crore to enhance transport infrastructure and through National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP) a Rs 111 lakh crore plan for financial year 2019-25.
Way forward
• Rs 111 trillion National Infrastructure Pipeline for 2020-2025 will be a game-changer for the Indian economy. Sectors like energy, roads, urban infrastructure, railways have a lion’s share in it that will help boost growth.
• To boost private investment in infra sector, it said the government has set up the Public Private Partnership Appraisal Committee (PPPAC) for appraisal of PPP projects.
• Revamping of the proposed VGF scheme will attract more PPP projects and facilitate the private investment in social sectors (Health, Education, Waste Water, Solid Waste Management, Water Supply etc.)
• The Aatmanirbhar Bharat has brought manufacturing at centre stage and emphasized its significance in driving India’s growth and creating jobs.
Topic: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc.
Topic: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc.
5. Inland waterways in India offer cost-effective transportation, environmental sustainability, connectivity, and trade promotion potential. Examine. (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 potential and challenges of inland waterways 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: Begin by giving context. Body: First, write in detail about the major inland waterways function and proposed in the country. Next, write about the advantages offered by inland waterways – Cost-Effective, Reduced Congestion, Environmentally Friendly etc. Next, write about the limitations of the above – Limited Infrastructure, Seasonal Constraints, Limited Routes etc. Conclusion: Conclude with 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 potential and challenges of inland waterways 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: Begin by giving context.
First, write in detail about the major inland waterways function and proposed in the country.
Next, write about the advantages offered by inland waterways – Cost-Effective, Reduced Congestion, Environmentally Friendly etc.
Next, write about the limitations of the above – Limited Infrastructure, Seasonal Constraints, Limited Routes etc.
Conclusion:
Conclude with way forward.
Introduction
Inland waterways in India encompass a network of rivers, canals, lakes, and backwaters that offer a unique mode of transportation, often overshadowed by their terrestrial counterparts. IWT is the most economical mode of transportation, especially for bulk cargo like coal, iron ore, cement, food grains and fertilizer. Presently, it remains underutilized at a share of 2% in India’s modal mix.
Government intends to increase the share of Inland Water Transport (IWT) to 5% as per Maritime India Vision (MIV)-2030.
Inland waterways in India
• India has approximately 14,500 km of navigable waterways (out of which about 5,200 km of the river and 4,000 km of canals can be used by mechanized crafts) with significant potential to be developed as a mode of transportation.
• Still, these inland waterways are un-utilized in India as compared to other countries in the world.
• The National Waterways Act aids in the management of the country’s waterways. It became effective in the year 2016.
• Out of the 111 national waterways proclaimed by the National Waterways Act, 13 are active for shipping and navigation and are used by cargo or passenger vessels.
• In addition to the pre-existing one, the act suggested 106 national waterways and consolidated 5 existing statutes that had designated the 5 national waterways.
• IWT is the most economical mode of transportation, especially for bulk cargo like coal, iron ore, cement, food grains and fertilizer. Presently, it remains underutilized at a share of 2% in India’s modal mix.
• India possesses an extensive network of rivers, canals, and lakes, offering significant potential for inland water transport (IWT).
• The National Waterways Act, 2016 has declared 111 inland waterways as ‘National Waterways’ (NWs) in the country to promote shipping and navigation on them.
• Inland waterways offer a greener alternative to road and rail transport, emitting fewer greenhouse gases per ton-km of cargo transported.
• Utilizing water transport can help reduce congestion on roads and railways, thereby easing the burden on transportation infrastructure.
• Improved connectivity through water transport can spur economic activities, generate employment, and boost regional development.
• Priority development of National Waterway-1 was undertaken through the Jal Vikas Marg Project (JVMP), which includes Arth Ganga, and they will give an economic boost of Rs 1,000 crore over the next five years.
• Some rivers are seasonal and do not offer navigability through the year. Around 20 out of the 111 identified national waterways have reportedly been found unviable.
• Water transport can be slower than other modes, making it less suitable for time-sensitive shipments.
• Infrastructural constraints and waterway depth limit the operating area.
• The identified waterways require intensive capital and maintenance dredging, which could be resisted by the local community on environmental grounds, including displacement fears, thereby posing implementation challenges.
• Waterways do not provide direct door-to-door cargo transportation, thereby affecting the last mile connectivity.
• Water also has important competing uses, viz. need for living as well as for irrigation, power generation etc. It would not be possible for the local government/others to overlook these needs.
• The exclusive jurisdiction of the Central Government is only in regard to shipping and navigation on inland waterways declared to be ‘national waterways’ by an act of Parliament.
• Utilisation/sailing of vessels, in other waterways, is within the ambit of the concurrent list or is in the jurisdiction of the respective state governments.
Way forward
• To promote inland water transport in the country, 111 ‘inland Waterways’ has been declared as ‘National Waterways’ under the National Waterways Act, 2016.
• Strengthening public-private partnerships plays a pivotal role in developing India’s inland waterways sector.
• Private entities can contribute to terminal development, cargo handling, and the construction of low-draft vessels.
• Measures should be taken to develop essential infrastructure, address technological bottlenecks, and ensure the year-round navigability of waterways.
• Seamless last-mile connectivity to and from hinterlands will further reduce trans-shipment costs and enhance the economic viability of inland water transport.
Conclusion
India’s inland waterways represent an untapped potential for economic growth and sustainable transportation, offering a promising alternative to traditional road and rail networks. With the right investments and policies, these waterways can pave the way for a greener, more efficient future of transportation in the country.
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. Focusing on intent rather than outcome underscores the importance of the motives, values, and efforts behind our actions rather than solely measuring success based on the results achieved. Elaborate. (150 Words)
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Why the question: The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 4. Key Demand of the question: To write about the importance of focussing on the intent and not on the outcome. Directive word: Elaborate – Give a detailed account as to how and why it occurred, or what is the context. You must be defining key terms wherever appropriate and substantiate with relevant associated facts. Structure of the answer: Introduction: Begin by giving context regarding the difference between intent and action. Body: Mention as to what happens when the outcome of the action more emphasised rather than the intent of the action. One tends to lose their path to have favourable outcomes rather than sticking to original intent. Cite examples to elaborate. Conclusion: Give a concise summation of your views to conclude the answer.
Why the question:
The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 4.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about the importance of focussing on the intent and not on the outcome.
Directive word:
Elaborate – Give a detailed account as to how and why it occurred, or what is the context. You must be defining key terms wherever appropriate and substantiate with relevant associated facts.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by giving context regarding the difference between intent and action.
Mention as to what happens when the outcome of the action more emphasised rather than the intent of the action. One tends to lose their path to have favourable outcomes rather than sticking to original intent. Cite examples to elaborate.
Conclusion:
Give a concise summation of your views to conclude the answer.
Introduction
In Bhagwad Gita there is a noble thought, “Be intent on action, not on the fruits of action; avoid attractions to the fruits and attachment to inaction”,
Shri Krishna says there are three kinds of people in this world
• Those who live for their own selfish happiness.
• Those who, through misunderstanding of scriptures, indulge in inactivity.
• Those who perform every activity as an offering to God.
Among these three types, the last one is considered wise. You neither should work with selfish motives because, in that case, at the end of his life, he may discover that happiness doesn’t follow a life of egotistical interest.
He may earn millions of dollars, but that person will always be dreaded with the thought of losing everything by death.
He also does not support the second type of people who, through misunderstanding of scriptures, think that all human activities may germinate ego in mind. Hence they embrace inactivity.
The Gita does not mean that one should word like a robot, without the thought of probable results. Do your duty without expectations means working intelligently and ambitiously trying to create the right fruits of actions not with ego or selfishness, but for God and for the people. The verse indicates humankind to be selfless and to perform actions for the benefit of humanity, not to fulfill their own wants and desires.
Some people also believe that it is impossible to carry out any activity without desiring for the fruit of action in the form of success. But one should understand that when a person works for his won material gain, he is not so alert, wise, and happy as when he executes his small or large plans just to please God.
Conclusion
At last, just perform your activities without the expectations of selfish results. Spread positivity and use your fortune to help the unfortunate ones. One should also understand that when we expect results, we get anxiety when our desired results don’t fulfill, and with this mindset, we easily give up.
Topic: ethics – in private and public relationships;
Topic: ethics – in private and public relationships;
7. Who is a role model according to you? What traits should a role model possess? Explain with examples. (150 words)
Difficulty level: Easy
Why the question: The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 4. Directive: Elucidate – Give a detailed account as to how and why it occurred, or what is the particular context. You must be defining key terms where ever appropriate, and substantiate with relevant associated facts. Structure of the answer: Introduction: Define role model. Body: First, write about the traits that a role model must embody – a combination of integrity, resilience, empathy, achievement, authenticity, and generosity. Cite examples and substantiate. Conclusion: Complete by summarizing.
Why the question:
The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 4.
Directive:
Elucidate – Give a detailed account as to how and why it occurred, or what is the particular context. You must be defining key terms where ever appropriate, and substantiate with relevant associated facts.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Define role model.
First, write about the traits that a role model must embody – a combination of integrity, resilience, empathy, achievement, authenticity, and generosity. Cite examples and substantiate.
Conclusion:
Complete by summarizing.
Introduction
A role model is an individual who embodies admirable qualities and serves as an inspiration to others. They exhibit integrity, resilience, empathy, and courage. Whether through their achievements, actions, or character, role models positively impact society.
Values can be defined as those things that are considered ‘important‘by an individual, society or an organization. Examples include courage, honesty, freedom, innovation etc. History of India and the world has shown us many reformers and administrators who are role models for the society and their lives are repository of values which guide us in the ethical path.
The traits a role model should possess
• Integrity: A role model should demonstrate honesty, transparency, and ethical behavior. Example: Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistani activist for female education, stood up against the Taliban’s oppressive regime and advocated for girls’ right to education. Her unwavering commitment to her cause exemplifies integrity.
• A role model should demonstrate honesty, transparency, and ethical behavior.
• Example: Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistani activist for female education, stood up against the Taliban’s oppressive regime and advocated for girls’ right to education. Her unwavering commitment to her cause exemplifies integrity.
• Resilience: Role models face challenges and setbacks but bounce back with determination. Example: Elon Musk, the entrepreneur and innovator, faced numerous failures (like SpaceX’s initial rocket explosions) but persisted. His resilience led to groundbreaking achievements in space exploration and electric vehicles.
• Role models face challenges and setbacks but bounce back with determination.
• Example: Elon Musk, the entrepreneur and innovator, faced numerous failures (like SpaceX’s initial rocket explosions) but persisted. His resilience led to groundbreaking achievements in space exploration and electric vehicles.
• Empathy: Role models understand others’ feelings and show compassion. Example: Oprah Winfrey, the media mogul, uses her platform to raise awareness about social issues. Her empathy-driven interviews and philanthropic efforts inspire millions.
• Role models understand others’ feelings and show compassion.
• Example: Oprah Winfrey, the media mogul, uses her platform to raise awareness about social issues. Her empathy-driven interviews and philanthropic efforts inspire millions.
• Perseverance: Role models don’t give up easily; they persistently pursue their goals. Example: Stephen Hawking, the physicist, battled ALS for decades, yet continued groundbreaking research on black holes. His perseverance inspires generations of scientists.
• Role models don’t give up easily; they persistently pursue their goals.
• Example: Stephen Hawking, the physicist, battled ALS for decades, yet continued groundbreaking research on black holes. His perseverance inspires generations of scientists.
• Adaptability: Role models embrace change and adapt to evolving circumstances. Example: Angela Merkel, the former German Chancellor, navigated complex political landscapes, demonstrating adaptability and leadership during crises like the Eurozone debt crisis and the refugee influx.
• Role models embrace change and adapt to evolving circumstances.
• Example: Angela Merkel, the former German Chancellor, navigated complex political landscapes, demonstrating adaptability and leadership during crises like the Eurozone debt crisis and the refugee influx.
• Generosity: Role models give back to society, sharing their success. Example: Bill Gates, the co-founder of Microsoft, shifted focus from software to philanthropy. His foundation tackles global health, education, and poverty, impacting millions worldwide.
• Role models give back to society, sharing their success.
• Example: Bill Gates, the co-founder of Microsoft, shifted focus from software to philanthropy. His foundation tackles global health, education, and poverty, impacting millions worldwide.
• Courage: Role models take risks and stand up for what’s right. Example: Rosa Parks, the civil rights activist, refused to give up her bus seat to a white person, sparking the Montgomery Bus Boycott. Her courage ignited the fight against racial segregation.
• Role models take risks and stand up for what’s right.
• Example: Rosa Parks, the civil rights activist, refused to give up her bus seat to a white person, sparking the Montgomery Bus Boycott. Her courage ignited the fight against racial segregation.
Conclusion
role model combines these traits to inspire others, leaving a positive legacy that transcends personal achievements.
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