UPSC Mains Answer Writing Practice – Insights SECURE: 25 July 2024

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General Studies – 1

Topic: Art and Culture

Topic: Art and Culture

Q1. Buddhism originated as a non-ritualistic faith that rejected the elaborate animal sacrifices of Vedic religion, offering a more accessible spiritual path for the general public. Discuss. 15M

Difficulty level: Tough

Reference: The Indian Express

Why the question: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced during her Union Budget speech on Tuesday (July 23) that corridor projects will be built for the Vishnupad Temple at Gaya and the Mahabodhi Temple at Bodh Gaya in Bihar. Key Demand of the question: To discuss how Buddhism emerged as a non-ritualistic faith compared to the Vedic religion, focusing on its rejection of animal sacrifices and its appeal to the general public. Structure of the Answer: Introduction: Briefly introduce Buddhism and Vedic religion, noting their historical and cultural context in ancient India. Body: Firstly, mention Vedic religion and ritualistic practices: focus on rituals, hymns, and sacrifices to appease deities and maintain cosmic order, practice of animal sacrifices in Vedic rituals, which were believed to ensure prosperity, divine favour, and social order, Ritual Complexity, exclusivity nature of rituals. In second part, mention the emergence of Buddhism as a non-Ritualistic faith: mention founding principle of Buddhism, rejection of animal sacrifices, inclusivity and accessibility of Buddhism, etc. At last, discuss the impact of Buddhism on society and religion at large. Conclusion: Emphasize the significance of Buddhism’s non-ritualistic approach in providing a spiritual path that was accessible to the broader public, contributing to its widespread appeal and influence.

Why the question:

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced during her Union Budget speech on Tuesday (July 23) that corridor projects will be built for the Vishnupad Temple at Gaya and the Mahabodhi Temple at Bodh Gaya in Bihar.

Key Demand of the question:

To discuss how Buddhism emerged as a non-ritualistic faith compared to the Vedic religion, focusing on its rejection of animal sacrifices and its appeal to the general public.

Structure of the Answer:

Introduction:

Briefly introduce Buddhism and Vedic religion, noting their historical and cultural context in ancient India.

• Firstly, mention Vedic religion and ritualistic practices: focus on rituals, hymns, and sacrifices to appease deities and maintain cosmic order, practice of animal sacrifices in Vedic rituals, which were believed to ensure prosperity, divine favour, and social order, Ritual Complexity, exclusivity nature of rituals.

• In second part, mention the emergence of Buddhism as a non-Ritualistic faith: mention founding principle of Buddhism, rejection of animal sacrifices, inclusivity and accessibility of Buddhism, etc.

• At last, discuss the impact of Buddhism on society and religion at large.

Conclusion:

Emphasize the significance of Buddhism’s non-ritualistic approach in providing a spiritual path that was accessible to the broader public, contributing to its widespread appeal and influence.

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

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

Q2. While landslides are primarily triggered by natural factors, the rising influence of human activities in exacerbating landslide risks is becoming increasingly concerning. Analyze. 15M

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: The New Indian Express

Why the question: Shirur landslide: Karnataka govt confirms location of truck in Gangavali River; search to resume soon. Key Demand of the question: To analyse the anthropogenic causes of landslides and to account for their increase in the recent past. Structure of the Answer: Introduction: Briefly introduce landslide by defining them. Give examples of some major landslides in the recent past. Body: Mention the natural factors behind the causes of landslides in India with a few examples. Mention the areas which are most prone to landslides. Draw a small illustrative map showing the same. Next bring in the instances of human activity induced landslides. Bring forth the anthropogenic factors responsible for causing Landslides. Substantiate with facts and figures regarding the incidence of landslides. Reason as to why the increase in anthropogenic induced landslides is alarming and cause of concern. Give solutions to overcome the same. Conclusion: Conclude with a way forward.

Why the question:

Shirur landslide: Karnataka govt confirms location of truck in Gangavali River; search to resume soon.

Key Demand of the question:

To analyse the anthropogenic causes of landslides and to account for their increase in the recent past.

Structure of the Answer:

Introduction:

Briefly introduce landslide by defining them. Give examples of some major landslides in the recent past.

• Mention the natural factors behind the causes of landslides in India with a few examples. Mention the areas which are most prone to landslides. Draw a small illustrative map showing the same.

• Next bring in the instances of human activity induced landslides. Bring forth the anthropogenic factors responsible for causing Landslides. Substantiate with facts and figures regarding the incidence of landslides.

• Reason as to why the increase in anthropogenic induced landslides is alarming and cause of concern. Give solutions to overcome the same.

Conclusion:

Conclude with a way forward.

General Studies – 2

Topic: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and Agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.

Topic: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and Agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.

Q3. Examine the current state of India-UK relations, highlighting key areas of cooperation and recent challenges. (10M)

•*Difficulty level: Moderate

•Reference: NDTV, Insights on India *

Why the question: The India-UK relationship has enormous possibilities and realising them meaningfully is the task at hand, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said. Key Demand of the question: Examine the state of India-UK relations, focusing on areas of cooperation and recent challenges. Directive: Examine – Investigate thoroughly and present a detailed analysis of the current state, cooperation, and challenges in India-UK relations. Structure of the answer: Introduction: Briefly introduce the historical context of India-UK relations. Mention the strategic importance of the bilateral relationship. Body: First part: Key Areas of Cooperation: Trade and investment. Defense and security collaboration. Education and research partnerships. Climate change and sustainable development. Cultural and people-to-people ties. Second part: Recent Challenges: Trade negotiations and market access issues. Immigration and visa policies. Differences on geopolitical and strategic matters. Historical and cultural sensitivities. Impact of Brexit on bilateral relations. Conclusion: Emphasise the potential for strengthening the partnership through diplomatic engagement and mutual respect.

Why the question:

The India-UK relationship has enormous possibilities and realising them meaningfully is the task at hand, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said.

Key Demand of the question:

Examine the state of India-UK relations, focusing on areas of cooperation and recent challenges.

Directive:

Examine – Investigate thoroughly and present a detailed analysis of the current state, cooperation, and challenges in India-UK relations.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Briefly introduce the historical context of India-UK relations. Mention the strategic importance of the bilateral relationship.

Body:

First part: Key Areas of Cooperation:

Trade and investment.

Defense and security collaboration.

Education and research partnerships.

Climate change and sustainable development.

Cultural and people-to-people ties.

Second part: Recent Challenges:

Trade negotiations and market access issues.

Immigration and visa policies.

Differences on geopolitical and strategic matters.

Historical and cultural sensitivities.

Impact of Brexit on bilateral relations.

Conclusion:

Emphasise the potential for strengthening the partnership through diplomatic engagement and mutual respect.

Topic: Important International Institutions, agencies and fora – their Structure, Mandate.

Topic: Important International Institutions, agencies and fora – their Structure, Mandate.

Q4. Assess the need for reforms in the United Nations, focusing on the structure and functioning of the Security Council. What opportunities do these reforms present for India and global governance? (15M)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: The Hindu, Insights on India

Why the question: Despite consistent efforts by India and other countries, the move for United Nations Security Council (UNSC) reform and expansion has made “no progress” so far, two former Indian Ambassadors to the United Nations has said. Key Demand of the question: Evaluate the necessity for United Nations reforms, specifically the Security Council, and identify opportunities these reforms offer for India and global governance. Directive: Assess – Provide a detailed analysis and evaluation of the need for reforms, including the potential benefits and challenges. Structure of the answer: Introduction: Introduce the United Nations and its role in global governance. Briefly mention the current structure of the Security Council. Body: First part: Need for Reforms: Lack of representation and inclusivity. Veto power and its misuse. Inefficiency in addressing contemporary global challenges. Calls for democratisation and transparency. Second part: Opportunities for India: Potential permanent seat in the Security Council. Enhanced influence in global decision-making. Ability to better advocate for developing countries. Strengthening India’s role in peacekeeping and global security. Third part: Opportunities for Global Governance: More balanced and representative Security Council. Improved legitimacy and effectiveness of the UN. Better conflict resolution and crisis management. Enhanced cooperation on global issues like climate change and terrorism. Conclusion: Emphasise the importance of collective international effort to realize these reforms.

Why the question:

Despite consistent efforts by India and other countries, the move for United Nations Security Council (UNSC) reform and expansion has made “no progress” so far, two former Indian Ambassadors to the United Nations has said.

Key Demand of the question:

Evaluate the necessity for United Nations reforms, specifically the Security Council, and identify opportunities these reforms offer for India and global governance.

Directive:

Assess – Provide a detailed analysis and evaluation of the need for reforms, including the potential benefits and challenges.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Introduce the United Nations and its role in global governance. Briefly mention the current structure of the Security Council.

First part: Need for Reforms:

Lack of representation and inclusivity.

Veto power and its misuse.

Inefficiency in addressing contemporary global challenges.

Calls for democratisation and transparency.

Second part: Opportunities for India:

Potential permanent seat in the Security Council.

Enhanced influence in global decision-making.

Ability to better advocate for developing countries.

Strengthening India’s role in peacekeeping and global security.

Third part: Opportunities for Global Governance:

More balanced and representative Security Council.

Improved legitimacy and effectiveness of the UN.

Better conflict resolution and crisis management.

Enhanced cooperation on global issues like climate change and terrorism.

Conclusion:

Emphasise the importance of collective international effort to realize these reforms.

General Studies – 3

Topic: Economy: Infrastructure

Topic: Economy: Infrastructure

Q5. Discuss the role of Industrial Parks sanctioned under the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP) in promoting economic growth and attracting investment. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: PIB, Insights on India

Why the question: TWELVE INVESTMENT-READY “PLUG AND PLAY” INDUSTRIAL PARKS TO BE CREATED UNDER NATIONAL INDUSTRIAL CORRIDOR DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME: UNION BUDGET 2024-25 Key Demand of the question: To explain the significance of industrial parks and the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP) in fostering economic growth, creating employment opportunities, and attracting foreign direct investment. Directive word: Discuss – This directive requires an examination of the role and impact of industrial parks under NICDP, considering various aspects and implications. Structure of the answer: Introduction: Begin by defining industrial parks and briefly introducing the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP). Body: About Industrial Parks: Define industrial parks as economic zones developed for industrial activities. Provide examples like Andhra Pradesh’s Sri City Special Economic Zone. Significance of Industrial Parks: Creation of employment opportunities. Shared infrastructure to enhance productivity and competitiveness. Attraction of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and expansion of manufacturing activities. Next, write few challenges in the implementation of Industrial park. Mentions way forward to overcome these challenges. Conclusion: Summarize the benefits of industrial parks and NICDP, emphasizing their potential to transform India’s industrial landscape and drive economic growth.

Why the question:

TWELVE INVESTMENT-READY “PLUG AND PLAY” INDUSTRIAL PARKS TO BE CREATED UNDER NATIONAL INDUSTRIAL CORRIDOR DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME: UNION BUDGET 2024-25

Key Demand of the question: To explain the significance of industrial parks and the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP) in fostering economic growth, creating employment opportunities, and attracting foreign direct investment.

Directive word: Discuss – This directive requires an examination of the role and impact of industrial parks under NICDP, considering various aspects and implications.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Begin by defining industrial parks and briefly introducing the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP).

• About Industrial Parks: Define industrial parks as economic zones developed for industrial activities. Provide examples like Andhra Pradesh’s Sri City Special Economic Zone.

• Define industrial parks as economic zones developed for industrial activities.

• Provide examples like Andhra Pradesh’s Sri City Special Economic Zone.

• Significance of Industrial Parks: Creation of employment opportunities. Shared infrastructure to enhance productivity and competitiveness. Attraction of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and expansion of manufacturing activities.

• Creation of employment opportunities.

• Shared infrastructure to enhance productivity and competitiveness.

• Attraction of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and expansion of manufacturing activities.

Next, write few challenges in the implementation of Industrial park.

Mentions way forward to overcome these challenges.

Conclusion:

Summarize the benefits of industrial parks and NICDP, emphasizing their potential to transform India’s industrial landscape and drive economic growth.

Topic: Agriculture: Technology missions; Science and Technology

Topic: Agriculture: Technology missions; Science and Technology

Q6. To responsibly harness the benefits of GM technology for India’s agricultural sector, it is crucial to balance rigorous scientific evaluations, transparent regulatory processes, and address environmental and food safety concerns. Analyse. (250 Words)

Difficulty level: Tough

Reference: The Hindu , Insights on India

Why the question: The Supreme Court on July 23 pronounced a split verdict on the validity of the Centre’s 2022 decision granting conditional approval for environmental release of genetically modified (GM) mustard crops. Key Demand of the question: To write about the impact of clearance granted for the cultivation of GM-Mustard and need for a more balanced and transparent approach. Directive word: Analyze – When asked to analyse, you must examine methodically the structure or nature of the topic by separating it into component parts and present them in a summary. Structure of the answer: Introduction: Begin by giving context. Body: First, in brief, write about the need for GM crops in the country to meet the challenges of food security and make farming commercially viable and tackle challenges posed by climate change. Mention the issues associated with GM crops. Next, write about the steps taken for rigorous scientific evaluations, transparent regulatory processes, and addressing environmental and food safety concerns for GM crops. Next, write what more needs to be done to balance the use and address the concerns. Conclusion: Conclude by writing a way forward.

Why the question:

The Supreme Court on July 23 pronounced a split verdict on the validity of the Centre’s 2022 decision granting conditional approval for environmental release of genetically modified (GM) mustard crops.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the impact of clearance granted for the cultivation of GM-Mustard and need for a more balanced and transparent approach.

Directive word:

Analyze – When asked to analyse, you must examine methodically the structure or nature of the topic by separating it into component parts and present them in a summary.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Begin by giving context.

First, in brief, write about the need for GM crops in the country to meet the challenges of food security and make farming commercially viable and tackle challenges posed by climate change.

Mention the issues associated with GM crops.

Next, write about the steps taken for rigorous scientific evaluations, transparent regulatory processes, and addressing environmental and food safety concerns for GM crops.

Next, write what more needs to be done to balance the use and address the concerns.

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing a way forward.

General Studies – 4

Topic: Challenges of Corruption

Topic: Challenges of Corruption

Q7. What ethical concerns arise from paper leaks and exam scams? Do you believe that anti-cheating bills are adequate to address these issues? Justify your answer. [10M]

Difficulty level: Medium

Reference: Economic Times

Why the question: Against the backdrop of the NEET Scam 2024, The Bihar assembly has passed a bill aimed at curbing the scourge of question paper leaks and other malpractices in recruitment tests conducted by the state. Structure of the answer: Introduction: Begin by linking the context of the question with a recent example. Body: First, explain the ethical concern arising due to paper leaks and exam scams. Then, briefly explain the features anti-cheating bill. Lastly, argue that along with legislative reform more can be done to reduce such incidents. NOTE: Your arguments should be more on ethical grounds. Conclusion: Summarize the above discussion in brief.

Why the question:

Against the backdrop of the NEET Scam 2024, The Bihar assembly has passed a bill aimed at curbing the scourge of question paper leaks and other malpractices in recruitment tests conducted by the state.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction: Begin by linking the context of the question with a recent example.

Body:

• First, explain the ethical concern arising due to paper leaks and exam scams.

• Then, briefly explain the features anti-cheating bill.

• Lastly, argue that along with legislative reform more can be done to reduce such incidents.