UPSC Insights SECURE SYNOPSIS : 12 July 2025
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
Q1. “The Swadeshi movement marked the true beginning of mass nationalism in India”. Discuss how the movement evolved and contributed to shaping nationalist consciousness. Evaluate its ideological impact on the freedom struggle and the reasons for its eventual decline. (15 M)
Introduction The Swadeshi movement (1905–1911) was triggered by the Partition of Bengal, but rapidly evolved into a pan-Indian protest combining economic self-reliance, cultural assertion, and political defiance, becoming the earliest expression of mass nationalism.
Evolution and contribution to nationalist consciousness
• Mass mobilisation against Bengal partition: The movement began with widespread public rejection of the 1905 partition, cutting across caste and class. Eg: In Calcutta (August 7, 1905), over 50,000 people attended the Swadeshi resolution meeting at Town Hall.
• Eg: In Calcutta (August 7, 1905), over 50,000 people attended the Swadeshi resolution meeting at Town Hall.
• Spread through festivals and local associations: Leaders used traditional and religious gatherings to expand political awareness. Eg: Tilak’s use of Ganesh Utsav and Shivaji Jayanti in Maharashtra linked culture with protest mobilisation.
• Eg: Tilak’s use of Ganesh Utsav and Shivaji Jayanti in Maharashtra linked culture with protest mobilisation.
• Emergence of indigenous education institutions: Nationalists aimed to decolonise minds through native-controlled learning centres. Eg: National Council of Education (1906) in Bengal promoted technical and nationalist education as an alternative to colonial curriculum.
• Eg: National Council of Education (1906) in Bengal promoted technical and nationalist education as an alternative to colonial curriculum.
• Active role of youth and students: For the first time, students emerged as organised actors in national politics through boycotts and protests. Eg: In Madras Presidency, students struck against foreign cloth and schools, leading to the closure of 300+ institutions in 1906.
• Eg: In Madras Presidency, students struck against foreign cloth and schools, leading to the closure of 300+ institutions in 1906.
• Women’s entry into public nationalist activity: Middle-class women joined rallies, picketing, and cloth bonfires, breaking Victorian social barriers. Eg: Sarala Devi Chaudhurani and Basanti Devi led women-only protest marches in Calcutta from 1905 onwards.
• Eg: Sarala Devi Chaudhurani and Basanti Devi led women-only protest marches in Calcutta from 1905 onwards.
Ideological impact on the freedom struggle
• Economic nationalism as political strategy: Swadeshi linked economic self-sufficiency to political liberation, becoming a core nationalist idea. Eg: Boycott of Manchester cloth and Manchester salt created self-reliant village-based Swadeshi industries.
• Eg: Boycott of Manchester cloth and Manchester salt created self-reliant village-based Swadeshi industries.
• Cultural revival as a political tool: Use of indigenous languages, songs, and symbols gave nationalism emotional and spiritual depth. Eg: Bankim’s “Vande Mataram” was adopted as the national song by INC in 1906 and became a rallying cry.
• Eg: Bankim’s “Vande Mataram” was adopted as the national song by INC in 1906 and became a rallying cry.
• Birth of assertive nationalist stream: Leaders like Lal-Bal-Pal advanced a bolder, confrontational approach to challenge British authority. Eg: Tilak’s call for Purna Swaraj in Kesari (1907) was an ideological break from moderate constitutionalism.
• Eg: Tilak’s call for Purna Swaraj in Kesari (1907) was an ideological break from moderate constitutionalism.
• Concept of constructive nationalism: Promotion of Swadeshi industries, national schools, and arbitration councils shaped future models. Eg: Gandhi’s constructive programme (1920s) drew heavily from the Swadeshi emphasis on village-level empowerment.
• Eg: Gandhi’s constructive programme (1920s) drew heavily from the Swadeshi emphasis on village-level empowerment.
• Creation of indigenous political networks: Regional leaders built local networks of activists, sowing seeds for mass party structures. Eg: Jugantar and Anushilan Samiti in Bengal trained cadres and volunteers in both political and revolutionary action.
• Eg: Jugantar and Anushilan Samiti in Bengal trained cadres and volunteers in both political and revolutionary action.
Limitations and reasons for decline
• Factionalism within Congress: The moderates–extremists divide post-1906 weakened strategic unity at the national level. Eg: Surat Split (1907) between Tilak and Gokhale eroded national coordination in Swadeshi campaigns.
• Eg: Surat Split (1907) between Tilak and Gokhale eroded national coordination in Swadeshi campaigns.
• State repression and surveillance: Use of sedition laws, deportations, and press control crippled leadership and momentum. Eg: Tilak’s arrest under sedition (1908) and closure of Yugantar paper severely curtailed outreach.
• Eg: Tilak’s arrest under sedition (1908) and closure of Yugantar paper severely curtailed outreach.
• Limited rural penetration: The movement remained largely urban and elite-driven, missing deep peasant engagement. Eg: In eastern UP and Bihar, peasant participation was negligible due to lack of organisational outreach.
• Eg: In eastern UP and Bihar, peasant participation was negligible due to lack of organisational outreach.
• Weak organisational continuity: Absence of sustained institutional frameworks led to a loss of direction after the peak. Eg: Many national schools and Swadeshi enterprises collapsed by 1911 due to lack of funds and coordination.
• Eg: Many national schools and Swadeshi enterprises collapsed by 1911 due to lack of funds and coordination.
• Diversion of youth to revolutionary path: Frustration with passive protest drove a section of youth towards underground militancy. Eg: Alipore Bomb Case (1908) involving Aurobindo Ghosh’s associates reflected a radical turn from mainstream protest.
• Eg: Alipore Bomb Case (1908) involving Aurobindo Ghosh’s associates reflected a radical turn from mainstream protest.
Conclusion The Swadeshi Movement redefined Indian nationalism through its mass character, ideological richness, and cultural rootedness. Though short-lived, it laid the foundation for the constructive and confrontational strategies that shaped the next four decades of the freedom struggle.
Q2. Despite a high proportion of female STEM graduates, workforce participation remains dismal. Analyse this paradox. Suggest systemic changes to bridge this gap. (10 M)
Introduction India leads the world in female STEM graduation rate at 43% (AISHE 2021–22), yet women comprise only 26% of the tech workforce (NASSCOM 2022), exposing a glaring mismatch between education and employment.
Analysing the paradox: High graduation, low participation
• Confidence erosion during education: Girls perform equally in school but lose confidence over time.
• Eg: As per UNESCO 2023 GEM Report, confidence—not competence—is the key deterrent in STEM continuity for girls.
• Cultural stereotypes and role models: STEM careers are still seen as male-dominated, discouraging aspirations.
• Eg: AI/ML roles have only 22% female participation globally (World Economic Forum, 2024).
• Workplace inflexibility and motherhood penalty: Rigid work hours and lack of support systems push women to exit mid-career.
• Eg: NITI Aayog 2022 noted that over 50% of women in tech drop out before mid-level roles.
• Bias in hiring and promotion: Gendered assumptions lead to fewer leadership roles despite qualifications.
• Eg: Only 11% of C-suite roles in India’s IT sector are held by women
• Intersectional barriers: Caste, class, and rural-urban divide restrict career access despite qualifications.
• Eg: Azim Premji University (2024) found that SC/ST rural women in STEM have 60% lower job transition rates.
Systemic changes to bridge the gap
• Gender-responsive pedagogy: Integrate women-centric STEM content and hands-on learning early.
• Eg: NEP 2020 promotes inclusive pedagogy; pilot project in Karnataka’s rural schools showed improved girl retention in STEM.
• Transparent workplace advancement: Mandate gender-equal evaluation and leadership quotas.
• Eg: Companies Act Amendment 2013 mandates one woman director on boards—needs extension to tech sector mid-levels.
• Flexible career pathways and re-entry support: Institutionalise maternity benefits, sabbaticals, and return-to-work programmes.
• Eg: IBM India’s ‘Tech Re-entry’ program helped 60% of women resume tech careers within 6 months.
• Decentralised skilling with community support: Localised tech hubs with hostel, crèche, and transport facilities.
• Eg: Kerala’s ‘She Labs’ initiative offers community-linked skilling and placement for women in AI and robotics.
• Gender audits and disaggregated data: Make gender data reporting mandatory for all STEM employers.
• Eg: Sethu Committee 2022 on Gender in Higher Education recommended state-level gender audits and public dashboards.
Conclusion STEM inclusion must move beyond numbers to nurturing ecosystems where women not only enter but also thrive, lead, and innovate. A gender-just tech future demands structural reform, not token gestures.
General Studies – 2
Q3. The credibility of recruitment agencies depends not just on merit but also on institutional transparency. Identify the major challenges faced by State Public Service Commissions (SPSCs). Suggest reforms to enhance their efficiency and accountability. (10 M)
Introduction
State Public Service Commissions (SPSCs), established under Articles 315–323 of the Constitution, play a pivotal role in state cadre recruitment. However, their credibility is increasingly strained by issues of procedural opacity, legal inconsistency, and systemic delay.
Major challenges faced by SPSCs
• Evaluation irregularities and lack of standardisation: Absence of uniform guidelines leads to arbitrary assessment and discrepancies in marking. Eg: In Bihar PSC 2020 mains, candidates reported non-uniform marking across optional subjects without moderation policy
• Eg: In Bihar PSC 2020 mains, candidates reported non-uniform marking across optional subjects without moderation policy
• Delays in recruitment cycle: Multiple stages without fixed timelines affect state administration and frustrate aspirants. Eg: UPPSC Combined State Exam (2015–20) saw final results delayed by nearly 5 years, creating severe backlog
• Eg: UPPSC Combined State Exam (2015–20) saw final results delayed by nearly 5 years, creating severe backlog
• Opaque RTI and grievance redressal mechanisms: Many commissions resist disclosing answer scripts or evaluation criteria. Eg: MPSC (Maharashtra) initially denied access to mains answer sheets under RTI, later overturned by Bombay High Court, 2019
• Eg: MPSC (Maharashtra) initially denied access to mains answer sheets under RTI, later overturned by Bombay High Court, 2019
• Frequent litigation due to poor compliance with tribunal or court orders: Legal advice is often overruled or delayed, causing institutional indecisiveness. Eg: In RPSC 2018 case, the Rajasthan HC pulled up the commission for delayed compliance of its stay order in evaluation matters
• Eg: In RPSC 2018 case, the Rajasthan HC pulled up the commission for delayed compliance of its stay order in evaluation matters
• Lack of independent legal and administrative structures: SPSCs rely heavily on state government departments, reducing autonomy. Eg: TSPSC (Telangana) was criticised in 2023 for inadequate internal audit and legal review systems after a major paper leak.
• Eg: TSPSC (Telangana) was criticised in 2023 for inadequate internal audit and legal review systems after a major paper leak.
Reforms to enhance efficiency and accountability
• Institution of model procedural guidelines across all SPSCs: Standardising rules for evaluation, revaluation, and shortlisting to reduce arbitrariness. Eg: 2nd ARC Report (2008) proposed a Model Recruitment Procedure Code for state-level commissions
• Eg: 2nd ARC Report (2008) proposed a Model Recruitment Procedure Code for state-level commissions
• Creation of independent legal and RTI cells: Strengthening internal mechanisms to respond timely to legal directions and RTI requests. Eg: UPSC’s in-house RTI and legal team ensures proactive disclosure and immediate appeal handling
• Eg: UPSC’s in-house RTI and legal team ensures proactive disclosure and immediate appeal handling
• Mandating digital evaluation with audit trails: E-evaluation and timestamped review logs to improve transparency and accountability. Eg: Kerala PSC implemented digital scanning and evaluation of answer scripts with biometric linkage in 2022
• Eg: Kerala PSC implemented digital scanning and evaluation of answer scripts with biometric linkage in 2022
• Statutory timelines with penal consequences for delay: Legislative backing for timely conduct of each stage in the recruitment cycle. Eg: RPSC Recruitment Calendar (2022) introduced fixed schedules, reducing pending exam stages by 28% in one year
• Eg: RPSC Recruitment Calendar (2022) introduced fixed schedules, reducing pending exam stages by 28% in one year
• Establishment of a national oversight and coordination mechanism: Periodic audit and reform support for all SPSCs to ensure consistency with federal principles. Eg: Punchhi Commission (2010) recommended inter-state council coordination for recruitment standardisation and accountability
• Eg: Punchhi Commission (2010) recommended inter-state council coordination for recruitment standardisation and accountability
Conclusion SPSCs must be restructured as digitally empowered, legally autonomous, and procedurally robust institutions. Restoring their credibility is key to ensuring equitable, transparent, and timely public recruitment at the state level.
Q4. Discuss how preventive health strategies can reduce the fiscal burden on India’s health system. What institutional shifts are needed to prioritise prevention over cure? (10 M)
Introduction: India’s disease burden is increasingly dominated by preventable non-communicable and communicable diseases. Investing in prevention-focused healthcare can not only improve population health outcomes but also alleviate long-term public expenditure pressures on an already strained health system.
How preventive strategies reduce fiscal burden
• Reduction in avoidable hospitalisation costs: Early detection and screening cut down expenditure on tertiary care. Eg: Tamil Nadu’s Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) screening programme reduced referrals and OPD load significantly (Ministry of Health, 2024)
• Eg: Tamil Nadu’s Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) screening programme reduced referrals and OPD load significantly (Ministry of Health, 2024)
• Lower economic loss due to morbidity: Preventive measures sustain workforce productivity, reducing indirect costs. Eg: WHO estimates India loses over ₹6.3 lakh crore annually due to NCD-related productivity losses.
• Eg: WHO estimates India loses over ₹6.3 lakh crore annually due to NCD-related productivity losses.
• Minimisation of outbreak-related emergency spending: Surveillance and immunisation limit disease spread and emergency allocations. Eg: Kerala’s Nipah preparedness post-2018 cut outbreak control costs by 42% in 2023
• Eg: Kerala’s Nipah preparedness post-2018 cut outbreak control costs by 42% in 2023
• Decreased burden on insurance and subsidy schemes: Healthy populations reduce claims on PM-JAY and ESI systems. Eg: Preventive counselling in Health & Wellness Centres (HWCs) reduced PM-JAY admissions for lifestyle diseases by 18% in pilot states (NHA, 2024)
• Eg: Preventive counselling in Health & Wellness Centres (HWCs) reduced PM-JAY admissions for lifestyle diseases by 18% in pilot states (NHA, 2024)
• Improved cost-efficiency in public health spending: A shift towards prevention allows for long-term cost rationalisation. Eg: Economic Survey 2022-23 observed that preventive public health returns ₹14 for every ₹1 invested
• Eg: Economic Survey 2022-23 observed that preventive public health returns ₹14 for every ₹1 invested
Institutional shifts needed to prioritise prevention
• Integration of public health cadre: States must implement a dedicated public health management cadre to institutionalise preventive strategies. Eg: 15th Finance Commission recommended formation of All India Public Health Management Cadre (PHMC) (2021)
• Eg: 15th Finance Commission recommended formation of All India Public Health Management Cadre (PHMC) (2021)
• Outcome-based funding to states: Incentivise states for achieving targets in prevention, immunisation, and screening. Eg: NITI Aayog’s Health Index 2024 includes screening coverage indicators as a ranking metric
• Eg: NITI Aayog’s Health Index 2024 includes screening coverage indicators as a ranking metric
• Legislative backing for disease surveillance: A modern law must replace the outdated Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897 to empower early interventions. Eg: Health Ministry’s draft Public Health Bill 2023 proposes mandatory reporting of notifiable diseases
• Eg: Health Ministry’s draft Public Health Bill 2023 proposes mandatory reporting of notifiable diseases
• Strengthening primary healthcare infrastructure: Prioritise funding and HR deployment at HWCs and sub-centres. Eg: Under Ayushman Bharat, over 1.6 lakh HWCs have been operationalised by 2025 (NHM Dashboard)
• Eg: Under Ayushman Bharat, over 1.6 lakh HWCs have been operationalised by 2025 (NHM Dashboard)
• Mainstreaming health promotion in education and workspaces: Institutionalise awareness programmes through schools, workplaces and media. Eg: Fit India Movement and Eat Right India campaign promote behavioural change through institutional channels
• Eg: Fit India Movement and Eat Right India campaign promote behavioural change through institutional channels
Conclusion: Shifting from curative to preventive care is not an expenditure, but an investment in economic resilience. A future-ready Indian health system must rest on the pillars of prevention, decentralisation and digital integration.
Q5. Examine the limitations of the consensus-based decision-making model under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). Why has it failed to ensure timely and effective climate action? Suggest reforms to democratise global climate negotiations. (15 M)
Introduction
The UNFCCC’s consensus model, though rooted in inclusivity, often results in weak compromises and delayed actions, limiting the global response to the climate emergency, especially when major emitters lack ambition or political will.
Limitations of consensus-based decision-making under UNFCCC
• Veto by any single country: Every nation has equal veto power, allowing even low-emission countries to stall ambitious action. Eg: In COP25 (Madrid, 2019), major decisions on carbon markets were blocked due to opposition by Brazil and Australia.
• Eg: In COP25 (Madrid, 2019), major decisions on carbon markets were blocked due to opposition by Brazil and Australia.
• Diluted outcomes due to lowest common denominator: Agreements are often the least ambitious version acceptable to all. Eg: The Glasgow Climate Pact (COP26, 2021) only called for “phasing down” coal instead of “phasing out,” following pushback by India and China.
• Eg: The Glasgow Climate Pact (COP26, 2021) only called for “phasing down” coal instead of “phasing out,” following pushback by India and China.
• Undermining accountability of large emitters: Consensus obscures the role of historically responsible nations. Eg: Despite failing to meet climate finance targets, developed countries faced no punitive mechanism under the Paris Agreement (2023 stocktake).
• Eg: Despite failing to meet climate finance targets, developed countries faced no punitive mechanism under the Paris Agreement (2023 stocktake).
• Slow negotiation process: Exhaustive efforts to maintain unanimity elongate decision-making cycles. Eg: The Loss and Damage Fund took decades of negotiation and was only partially operationalised in COP28 (2023).
• Eg: The Loss and Damage Fund took decades of negotiation and was only partially operationalised in COP28 (2023).
• Overrepresentation of fossil fuel lobbies: Consensus allows powerful polluters to influence language and timelines. Eg: Over 2,400 fossil fuel lobbyists were accredited at COP27 (Sharm El-Sheikh, 2022), raising concerns about transparency.
• Eg: Over 2,400 fossil fuel lobbyists were accredited at COP27 (Sharm El-Sheikh, 2022), raising concerns about transparency.
Reasons for failure in ensuring timely and effective climate action
• Geopolitical divergences among blocs: Conflicting priorities between developed vs developing countries impede convergence. Eg: At Bonn 2025, talks stalled over climate finance targets; developing nations demanded $1.3 trillion, developed countries offered only $300 billion
• Eg: At Bonn 2025, talks stalled over climate finance targets; developing nations demanded $1.3 trillion, developed countries offered only $300 billion
• Absence of binding enforcement mechanisms: No penalty exists for non-compliance or withdrawal. Eg: The US withdrawal from the Paris Agreement (2020) had no institutional consequence and disrupted global momentum.
• Eg: The US withdrawal from the Paris Agreement (2020) had no institutional consequence and disrupted global momentum.
• Agenda fragmentation and procedural overlaps: Long lists of agenda items dilute focus and delay progress. Eg: Brazil’s 2025 letter for COP30 pointed out overlapping themes and limited time for core issues (UNFCCC, July 2025).
• Eg: Brazil’s 2025 letter for COP30 pointed out overlapping themes and limited time for core issues (UNFCCC, July 2025).
• Exclusion of vulnerable and small delegations: Many smaller nations lack resources for effective participation in prolonged negotiations. Eg: LDCs and SIDS raised concerns at COP28 about unfair representation due to small team sizes and procedural fatigue.
• Eg: LDCs and SIDS raised concerns at COP28 about unfair representation due to small team sizes and procedural fatigue.
• Ineffective climate finance delivery: Failure to mobilise funds weakens climate ambition in the Global South. Eg: Despite the $100 billion promise (Copenhagen Accord, 2009), actual delivery stood at only $89.6 billion in 2022.
• Eg: Despite the $100 billion promise (Copenhagen Accord, 2009), actual delivery stood at only $89.6 billion in 2022.
Reforms to democratise global climate negotiations
• Introduce qualified majority voting (QMV): Use majority-based decisions when consensus fails after defined timeframes. Eg: Over 200 civil society groups at Bonn 2025 recommended majority voting for stalled decisions.
• Eg: Over 200 civil society groups at Bonn 2025 recommended majority voting for stalled decisions.
• Exclude fossil fuel industry influence: Implement conflict-of-interest rules and ban corporate lobbying from key sessions. Eg: WHO FCTC model excludes tobacco lobbyists; similar firewall can be adapted for climate talks.
• Eg: WHO FCTC model excludes tobacco lobbyists; similar firewall can be adapted for climate talks.
• Ensure equitable representation and funding for small delegations: Provide logistical and technical support to least developed countries. Eg: UNDP’s Climate Promise (2023) supports LDC negotiators with legal and scientific assistance.
• Eg: UNDP’s Climate Promise (2023) supports LDC negotiators with legal and scientific assistance.
• Streamline agenda and negotiation tracks: Focus on fewer, outcome-oriented thematic priorities at each COP. Eg: Brazil proposed an agenda reform with 30 core deliverables for COP30
• Eg: Brazil proposed an agenda reform with 30 core deliverables for COP30
• Establish accountability metrics and public reporting: Track climate finance and NDC delivery transparently across nations. Eg: Global Stocktake mechanism under the Paris Agreement can be strengthened with third-party audit frameworks.
• Eg: Global Stocktake mechanism under the Paris Agreement can be strengthened with third-party audit frameworks.
Conclusion
Consensus without equity breeds paralysis. A reformed UNFCCC must balance sovereign equality with planetary urgency, enabling fair yet firm global climate governance for a just and liveable future.
General Studies – 3
Q6. The Plant Treaty’s proposed reforms risk reducing farmers to passive stakeholders in global seed governance. Explain how the dual-access model affects benefit-sharing. Examine the impact of Digital Sequence Information (DSI) on bio-sovereignty. Suggest institutional safeguards India must adopt. (15 M)
Introduction
Seed sovereignty forms the foundation of India’s agrobiodiversity and food security. The recent reform proposals under the Plant Treaty—especially the dual-access model and Digital Sequence Information (DSI) provisions—threaten to erode benefit-sharing and weaken India’s control over its genetic resources.
Dual-access model and its impact on benefit-sharing
• Unfair commercial leverage to corporations: The dual-access model lets companies switch between fixed-fee and one-time payments, avoiding fair compensation. Eg: WTO TRIPS review (2023) highlighted misuse of flexible IPR frameworks by seed multinationals to evade equitable sharing.
• Eg: WTO TRIPS review (2023) highlighted misuse of flexible IPR frameworks by seed multinationals to evade equitable sharing.
• No mandatory disclosure of commercialisation: Corporations can delay declaring commercial use of seeds, bypassing benefit-sharing. Eg: Third World Network (2025) warned that Indian seed banks were being used without timely reporting or benefit return.
• Eg: Third World Network (2025) warned that Indian seed banks were being used without timely reporting or benefit return.
• Weak traceability mechanisms: Current frameworks lack the digital infrastructure to monitor usage from access to product launch. Eg: FAO Treaty Secretariat report (2024) acknowledged that traceability gaps hinder enforcement of benefit-sharing obligations.
• Eg: FAO Treaty Secretariat report (2024) acknowledged that traceability gaps hinder enforcement of benefit-sharing obligations.
• Bypasses recognition of farmer contributions: Local farmers and breeders are excluded from economic benefits or recognition. Eg: Madhya Pradesh seed bank case (2022) saw zero returns to farmers even after a firm used traits from traditional seed varieties.
• Eg: Madhya Pradesh seed bank case (2022) saw zero returns to farmers even after a firm used traits from traditional seed varieties.
Impact of Digital Sequence Information (DSI) on bio-sovereignty
• Circumvents physical access laws: Genetic data is extracted digitally without using physical seeds, avoiding national regulations. Eg: CGIAR centres uploaded India’s genetic codes publicly, enabling companies to develop products without ABS consent (Rashtriya Kisan Mahasangh, 2025).
• Eg: CGIAR centres uploaded India’s genetic codes publicly, enabling companies to develop products without ABS consent (Rashtriya Kisan Mahasangh, 2025).
• Absence of global norms for DSI sharing: DSI is not yet governed by binding global benefit-sharing frameworks. Eg: CBD COP-15 (2022) highlighted the regulatory vacuum around digital data use and its inequitable consequences.
• Eg: CBD COP-15 (2022) highlighted the regulatory vacuum around digital data use and its inequitable consequences.
• Loss of regulatory oversight: Open access to genetic data weakens India’s enforcement capacity under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002. Eg: NBA audit (2023) found multiple DSI downloads linked to foreign patents without Indian oversight or compensation.
• Eg: NBA audit (2023) found multiple DSI downloads linked to foreign patents without Indian oversight or compensation.
• Threat to traditional knowledge systems: Indigenous bio-cultural practices are digitally exploited without acknowledgement or benefit. Eg: Basmati DNA case (2021) revealed bio-piracy of Indian varieties via digital replication in foreign patent filings.
• Eg: Basmati DNA case (2021) revealed bio-piracy of Indian varieties via digital replication in foreign patent filings.
Institutional safeguards India must adopt
• Inclusion of DSI in ABS framework: Amend the Biological Diversity Rules, 2004 to bring digital sequence use under benefit-sharing norms. Eg: MoEFCC expert group (2023) recommended explicit inclusion of DSI in India’s ABS compliance mechanism.
• Eg: MoEFCC expert group (2023) recommended explicit inclusion of DSI in India’s ABS compliance mechanism.
• Introduce digital traceability infrastructure: Use blockchain-based tools for end-to-end tracking of genetic material use. Eg: eVIN health supply chain model can be adapted for real-time seed traceability and enforcement.
• Eg: eVIN health supply chain model can be adapted for real-time seed traceability and enforcement.
• Strengthen farmers’ protection under PPVFR Act: Expand rights under Section 39 to cover digital and derivative seed use. Eg: 2024 Farmers’ Rights Authority paper suggested updating the Act to include DSI-linked benefit-sharing clauses.
• Eg: 2024 Farmers’ Rights Authority paper suggested updating the Act to include DSI-linked benefit-sharing clauses.
• Lead global negotiation for DSI governance: India must push for a binding international DSI protocol in multilateral forums. Eg: India’s co-chair role in 2025 Lima talks offers a chance to champion sovereign digital rights and equitable access.
• Eg: India’s co-chair role in 2025 Lima talks offers a chance to champion sovereign digital rights and equitable access.
Conclusion
India must not trade seed sovereignty for global compliance. Proactive digital governance, farmer-centric reforms, and international leadership are key to preserving biodiversity and ensuring justice for those who have nurtured it for generations.
Q7. The three-front threat to India is not just a territorial issue but a convergence of ideological, technological, and political warfare. Analyse each front’s unique threat nature. Evaluate how India must tailor its doctrines. Suggest institutional reforms to manage concurrent escalation. (15 M)
Introduction
India today faces not just a geographic challenge, but a three-dimensional national security threat—ideological from Pakistan, technological from China, and political-asymmetric from Bangladesh. This demands multi-domain preparedness and institutional flexibility.
Unique threat nature across each front
• Hybrid and ideological threat from Pakistan: Uses terror proxies, narco-terrorism, and disinformation under nuclear deterrence. Eg: 2025 Pahalgam terror ambush supported by Pakistan’s ISI reflects proxy-driven hybrid escalation (MoD 2025)
• Eg: 2025 Pahalgam terror ambush supported by Pakistan’s ISI reflects proxy-driven hybrid escalation (MoD 2025)
• Technological and grey-zone threat from China: Engages in LAC transgressions, cyber intrusions, and coercive border posturing. Eg: Cyberattack on Ladakh power grid in 2023 showed non-kinetic battlefield shaping (IDSA Cyber Brief, 2024)
• Eg: Cyberattack on Ladakh power grid in 2023 showed non-kinetic battlefield shaping (IDSA Cyber Brief, 2024)
• Political and asymmetric threat from Bangladesh: Post-election radical shift may revive insurgent havens and cross-border instability. Eg: Jamaat-e-Islami resurgence in 2025 risks ideological export into Northeast India (MHA Northeast Security Review, 2025)
• Eg: Jamaat-e-Islami resurgence in 2025 risks ideological export into Northeast India (MHA Northeast Security Review, 2025)
• Threat convergence and cascading effects: Even without coordination, adversarial actions may synchronise unintentionally. Eg: Simultaneous ISI proxy activity in Kashmir and PLA build-up in Arunachal caused dual-front pressure (NSCS Analysis, 2024)
• Eg: Simultaneous ISI proxy activity in Kashmir and PLA build-up in Arunachal caused dual-front pressure (NSCS Analysis, 2024)
Doctrinal adjustments required
• Multi-domain integrated readiness: Doctrines must enable land, air, cyber, and space coordination across dynamic fronts. Eg: Shift from Cold Start to Integrated Battle Groups (IBGs) with cyber and ISR support (Army Doctrine 2023)
• Eg: Shift from Cold Start to Integrated Battle Groups (IBGs) with cyber and ISR support (Army Doctrine 2023)
• Differentiated escalation logic: Avoid symmetrical responses; calibrate posture to adversary behaviour and terrain. Eg: Post-Galwan strategy of firm yet restrained patrolling with diplomatic pushback proved effective (VIF Escalation Matrix, 2024)
• Eg: Post-Galwan strategy of firm yet restrained patrolling with diplomatic pushback proved effective (VIF Escalation Matrix, 2024)
• Dual-role force rotation: Cross-trained units must switch theatres rapidly based on emerging threats. Eg: SFF and Eastern Corps personnel redeployed across LAC and Northeast zones in 2024-25
• Eg: SFF and Eastern Corps personnel redeployed across LAC and Northeast zones in 2024-25
• Cyber and information warfare inclusion: Doctrines must incorporate pre-kinetic, digital disruptions. Eg: Formation of Defence Cyber Agency and Information Ops Doctrine (2024) to counter grey-zone threats (Raksha Mantri Report)
• Eg: Formation of Defence Cyber Agency and Information Ops Doctrine (2024) to counter grey-zone threats (Raksha Mantri Report)
Institutional reforms for concurrent escalation
• Integrated theatre commands: Prioritise North, East, and Maritime theatre structures with unified command. Eg: Northern Theatre Command rollout delayed due to inter-service friction
• Eg: Northern Theatre Command rollout delayed due to inter-service friction
• Intelligence fusion with AI analytics: Build real-time multi-agency coordination architecture. Eg: Proposed MAC 2.0 with AI-based multi-front alert system
• Eg: Proposed MAC 2.0 with AI-based multi-front alert system
• Hybrid warfare task forces: Create specialised joint units to manage low-intensity, cross-border threats. Eg: Unified Command in Assam model extended to Tripura and Meghalaya sectors.
• Eg: Unified Command in Assam model extended to Tripura and Meghalaya sectors.
• Rapid mobility logistics and deployment: Pre-position resources and build agile infrastructure for multi-sector response. Eg: Use of C-130J and Chinook airlifts during Sikkim escalation (2024) for force mobility
• Eg: Use of C-130J and Chinook airlifts during Sikkim escalation (2024) for force mobility
• Tri-front wargaming and simulations: Regular inter-service simulations to anticipate concurrent pressures. Eg: EX TRISURYA 2025, India’s first tri-front war game validated crisis response efficiency
• Eg: EX TRISURYA 2025, India’s first tri-front war game validated crisis response efficiency
• Civil-military crisis coordination cells: Link political-diplomatic-military messaging during escalations. Eg: Lack of synergy during Doklam standoff (2017) led to post-facto policy correction
• Eg: Lack of synergy during Doklam standoff (2017) led to post-facto policy correction
• Indigenous asymmetric technology development: Accelerate EW, drone and AI tools for precision defence. Eg: TAPAS UAV, Quantum Comms, and D4 counter-drone systems deployed in sensitive border belts.
• Eg: TAPAS UAV, Quantum Comms, and D4 counter-drone systems deployed in sensitive border belts.
Conclusion
India’s next conflict will not follow a single narrative—it will be a test of multi-front readiness, doctrinal elasticity, and institutional jointness. Only a proactive, tech-integrated, and theatre-synchronised model can secure India’s frontiers in this age of convergence warfare.
Q8. Analyse the emerging challenges for India’s internal security in the aftermath of large-scale precision strikes across the border. How can India strengthen its preparedness against asymmetric retaliation and proxy threats? (10 M)
Introduction
Precision strikes like Operation Sindoor (2025) reaffirm India’s proactive doctrine, but also expose the homeland to covert, dispersed, and proxy retaliation, demanding multi-tiered internal security vigilance.
Emerging challenges for internal security
• Cross-border terror infiltration surges: Retaliatory attempts by terror groups may rise via porous borders and LoC gaps. Eg:– In June 2025, four terrorists infiltrated in Poonch sector days after Operation Sindoor, triggering a counter-insurgency operation (Ministry of Defence report).
• Eg:– In June 2025, four terrorists infiltrated in Poonch sector days after Operation Sindoor, triggering a counter-insurgency operation (Ministry of Defence report).
• Urban terror and sleeper cell reactivation: Major cities become targets for proxy disruption using local radicalised modules. Eg:– NIA 2024 report flagged revival of ISI-backed ‘Over Ground Workers’ (OGWs) in metro cities post-surgical operations.
• Eg:– NIA 2024 report flagged revival of ISI-backed ‘Over Ground Workers’ (OGWs) in metro cities post-surgical operations.
• Cyber sabotage and digital misinformation: Retaliation may occur through cyberattacks on critical infrastructure and coordinated misinformation. Eg:– CERT-In (2024) identified over 2,000 Pakistan-origin phishing attempts on Indian defence and power sector domains post-strike.
• Eg:– CERT-In (2024) identified over 2,000 Pakistan-origin phishing attempts on Indian defence and power sector domains post-strike.
• Communal polarisation and internal unrest: Terror-linked reprisals can trigger communal flashpoints, destabilising local law and order. Eg:– Kargil-style communal calls were intercepted by Intelligence Bureau (2025) urging retaliatory protests in select border districts.
• Eg:– Kargil-style communal calls were intercepted by Intelligence Bureau (2025) urging retaliatory protests in select border districts.
• Drone and narcotics-terror linkages: Drones used for arms/narcotics drop escalate cross-border threat complexity. Eg:– Punjab Police (May 2025) seized 11 drone-dropped AK rifles near Gurdaspur, linked to Lashkar modules.
• Eg:– Punjab Police (May 2025) seized 11 drone-dropped AK rifles near Gurdaspur, linked to Lashkar modules.
Strengthening preparedness against asymmetric and proxy threats
• Forward-deployed integrated border grid: Combine BSF, Army, and intelligence assets along vulnerable sectors. Eg:– Surgical Strike Review Committee (2020) recommended real-time surveillance integration on the Punjab and LoC frontier.
• Eg:– Surgical Strike Review Committee (2020) recommended real-time surveillance integration on the Punjab and LoC frontier.
• Urban counter-terror hubs and drills: Deploy National Security Guard (NSG) teams in major cities with war-gaming simulations. Eg:– Delhi NSG metro drill (2024) tested 3-minute tactical deployment readiness under the MHA’s MetroGuard protocol.
• Eg:– Delhi NSG metro drill (2024) tested 3-minute tactical deployment readiness under the MHA’s MetroGuard protocol.
• Counter-radicalisation through community cells: Use local clergy, CSOs, and digital awareness campaigns to contain recruitment. Eg:– Hyderabad Police’s BOLSTER initiative (2023) de-radicalised over 75 at-risk youth through faith-based mentorship.
• Eg:– Hyderabad Police’s BOLSTER initiative (2023) de-radicalised over 75 at-risk youth through faith-based mentorship.
• National cyber command coordination: Inter-agency fusion of CERT-In, NCIIPC, DRDO and IB to counter hybrid digital threats. Eg:– CERT-In–NCIIPC joint audit (2025) protected 18 defence networks from malware seeded via social engineering.
• Eg:– CERT-In–NCIIPC joint audit (2025) protected 18 defence networks from malware seeded via social engineering.
• Drone neutralisation and drone forensic units: Equip border forces with RF-jamming tech and drone traceback capabilities. Eg:– Jammu Drone Response Team (2025) traced recovered drones to Karachi-origin modules, leading to ISI asset neutralisation.
• Eg:– Jammu Drone Response Team (2025) traced recovered drones to Karachi-origin modules, leading to ISI asset neutralisation.
Conclusion
India’s evolving security doctrine must now fuse cross-border precision with deep internal resilience—only then can military success translate into lasting peace and deterrence.
General Studies – 4
Q9. In public institutions, ethical erosion often manifests through neglect rather than overt corruption. Examine the implications of passive ethical misconduct. Suggest methods to institutionalise moral responsibility. (10 M)
Introduction
While overt corruption often grabs attention, it is the chronic neglect of ethical duties—silent, routine, and unchecked—that corrodes the moral foundations of governance and erodes citizen confidence in institutions.
Implications of passive ethical misconduct
• Loss of institutional legitimacy: Failure to act ethically, even passively, undermines the credibility of the institution. Eg: Lokpal Annual Report (2023) flagged that over 40% of citizen complaints were related to non-responsiveness rather than active wrongdoing.
• Eg: Lokpal Annual Report (2023) flagged that over 40% of citizen complaints were related to non-responsiveness rather than active wrongdoing.
• Toleration of mediocrity and decay: Ethical indifference lowers performance standards, creating space for incompetence. Eg: Second ARC Report (2007) noted that “non-performance often escapes notice more than misconduct.”
• Eg: Second ARC Report (2007) noted that “non-performance often escapes notice more than misconduct.”
• Invisible harm to public welfare: Passive neglect delays welfare delivery, hurting the most vulnerable. Eg: CAG Report on PM Awas Yojana (2022) showed delays in file movement due to habitual staff inaction in 6 states.
• Eg: CAG Report on PM Awas Yojana (2022) showed delays in file movement due to habitual staff inaction in 6 states.
• Diffusion of accountability: Lack of clear ethical standards leads to buck-passing and erosion of individual responsibility. Eg: Ashok Kumar Thakur v. Union of India (2008) highlighted the “collective accountability vacuum” in public decision-making.
• Eg: Ashok Kumar Thakur v. Union of India (2008) highlighted the “collective accountability vacuum” in public decision-making.
• Cultural normalisation of apathy: When passivity is unpunished, it becomes part of institutional work culture. Eg: P.J. Thomas Committee (2013) on bureaucratic ethics stated that “non-action is rewarded more than proactive conduct.”
• Eg: P.J. Thomas Committee (2013) on bureaucratic ethics stated that “non-action is rewarded more than proactive conduct.”
Methods to institutionalise moral responsibility
• Performance-linked ethical appraisals: Include moral conduct, responsiveness, and empathy in annual confidential reports (ACRs). Eg: DoPT 2023 circular proposed integrating ethical indicators into the SPARROW platform for Group A officers.
• Eg: DoPT 2023 circular proposed integrating ethical indicators into the SPARROW platform for Group A officers.
• Ethics audit and compliance cells: Establish independent internal ethics cells for each department with oversight powers. Eg: OECD Integrity Framework (2021) recommends periodic integrity audits to diagnose ethical lapses structurally.
• Eg: OECD Integrity Framework (2021) recommends periodic integrity audits to diagnose ethical lapses structurally.
• Supervisory accountability enforcement: Make higher officials responsible for monitoring subordinates’ ethical conduct. Eg: Delhi Police 2024 initiative mandates weekly ethical compliance reports from station house officers.
• Eg: Delhi Police 2024 initiative mandates weekly ethical compliance reports from station house officers.
• Mandatory ethics re-orientation training: Annual ethics workshops for all public servants using real-world dilemmas. Eg: LBSNAA Ethics Lab module (2022) focuses on values-in-action simulations for probationers.
• Eg: LBSNAA Ethics Lab module (2022) focuses on values-in-action simulations for probationers.
• Citizen interface and feedback systems: Use public grievance tracking to monitor ethical performance indirectly. Eg: Rajasthan’s Jan Soochna Portal (2023) allows users to rate departmental responsiveness, improving ethical vigilance.
• Eg: Rajasthan’s Jan Soochna Portal (2023) allows users to rate departmental responsiveness, improving ethical vigilance.
Conclusion
Public ethics cannot be upheld by punishment alone; it must be nurtured through institutional culture, leadership role-modelling, and systemic enforcement of moral responsibility—making neglect as unacceptable as corruption.
Q10. “The major value in life is not what you get. The major value in life is what you become”. Do you agree with this statement? Justify your answer with suitable examples. (10 M)
Introduction:
Value refers to the ethical principles and standards that guide behaviour and decision-making. These principles, rooted in moral philosophy, shape our character and influence our actions, determining what we consider meaningful and worthwhile in life.
Body:
The statement aligns with virtue ethics, which emphasizes character and moral virtues over material achievements.
• Personal virtue and fulfilment: According to Aristotle’s concept of eudaimonia, true fulfilment comes from developing moral virtues and realizing one’s potential.
• g. Mahatma Gandhi’s commitment to non-violence and justice.
• Enduring ethical impact: Kantian ethics values actions based on duty highlight what we become ethically impacts society more profoundly than material gains.
• g. Nelson Mandela’s lifelong dedication to justice and equality
• Resilience and inner moral strength: The stoic principle states that personal values and inner moral strength provide resilience even in the face of extreme adversity.
• g. COVID -19 resilience among people.
• Character development: Individuals who cultivate strong moral character are better equipped to contribute positively to society.
• g. Leaders like Zelenskyy who defenced Ukraine.
While becoming ethically virtuous is crucial, the material aspects of life also hold value from a utilitarian perspective, as they contribute to overall happiness and well-being.
• Resources for ethical action: Material success can enable greater ethical contributions to society. Material resources can be used for ethical purposes and societal benefit as well.
• g. Bill Gates’ wealth, derived from his success with Microsoft, has funded numerous philanthropic initiatives.
• Security and ethical development: Basic material security is a prerequisite for higher ethical development and self-actualization. Financial stability can facilitate personal growth.
• g. Maslow’s hierarchy of needs.
• Influence and ethical leadership: Material success can provide a platform for ethical influence and advocacy in geopolitical forums and society.
• g. Actor Chiranjeevi led ethical leadership in blood donation campaigns.
• Practical impact: Material resources can provide immediate benefits, such as healthcare, education, and housing, which directly improve people’s quality of life.
• g. Provide a quality standard of life.
Conclusion:
Kantian principles and utilitarian considerations acknowledge the importance of nurturing inner moral values while recognizing the role of material success in enabling and enhancing our capacity to make meaningful and ethical impacts.
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