UPSC Mains Answer Writing Practice – Insights SECURE: 26 June 2024
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General Studies – 1
Topic: Post-independence consolidation and reorganization within the country.
Topic: Post-independence consolidation and reorganization within the country.
1. The Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971 stemmed from deep-seated cultural, political, and economic disparities between East and West Pakistan. Why did India get involved the war? Examine. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Easy
Reference: Insights on India
Why the question: The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 1. Key Demand of the question: To write about the causes for Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971 and to explain reasons for India’s involvement. 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 of the conflict between east and west Pakistan. Body: In the first part, write about the reasons for the outbreak of the war. Ethnic clashes, Economic disparities, Political asymmetry, Language issue and the immediate cause etc. Next, write about the reasons for India’s involved in the war – opportunity of the century, countering Pakistan, Bengali movement for autonomy and shared heritage, refugee crisis, security threats etc. Next, write about the reasons for India’s victory over Pakistan. Conclusion: Conclude by summarising.
Why the question:
The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 1.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about the causes for Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971 and to explain reasons for India’s involvement.
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 of the conflict between east and west Pakistan.
In the first part, write about the reasons for the outbreak of the war. Ethnic clashes, Economic disparities, Political asymmetry, Language issue and the immediate cause etc.
Next, write about the reasons for India’s involved in the war – opportunity of the century, countering Pakistan, Bengali movement for autonomy and shared heritage, refugee crisis, security threats etc.
Next, write about the reasons for India’s victory over Pakistan.
Conclusion:
Conclude by summarising.
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.
2. Temporary global warming surpassing 2°C could lead to severe long-term impacts on marine ecosystems. Analyse. (150 words)
Difficulty level: Tough
Reference: Insights on India
Why the question: The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 1. Key Demand of the question: To write about the potential long-term effects of temporary global warming surpassing 2°C on marine ecosystems and species. Directive word: Analyse – When asked to analyse, you must examine methodically the structure or nature of the topic by separating it into component parts and present them in a summary. Structure of the answer: Introduction: Begin by giving context. Body: First, write about how elevated temperatures can disrupt ocean ecosystems by impacting coral reefs, marine biodiversity, and food chains. Describe the acidification of seawater and its effects on marine life, including shellfish and corals. Next, write about even temporary warming can have long-lasting consequences, and these changes may persist for centuries. Highlight the importance of understanding the cumulative effects on future generations. Next, measures that are needed to reverse the above. Conclusion: Conclude by writing a way forward.
Why the question:
The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 1.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about the potential long-term effects of temporary global warming surpassing 2°C on marine ecosystems and species.
Directive word:
Analyse – When asked to analyse, you must examine methodically the structure or nature of the topic by separating it into component parts and present them in a summary.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by giving context.
First, write about how elevated temperatures can disrupt ocean ecosystems by impacting coral reefs, marine biodiversity, and food chains. Describe the acidification of seawater and its effects on marine life, including shellfish and corals.
Next, write about even temporary warming can have long-lasting consequences, and these changes may persist for centuries. Highlight the importance of understanding the cumulative effects on future generations.
Next, measures that are needed to reverse the above.
Conclusion:
Conclude by writing a way forward.
General Studies – 2
Topic: Appointment to various Constitutional posts, powers, functions and responsibilities of various Constitutional Bodies.
Topic: Appointment to various Constitutional posts, powers, functions and responsibilities of various Constitutional Bodies.
3. The Deputy Speaker’s constitutionally mandated role is vital for maintaining parliamentary order and ensuring smooth proceedings especially in the Speaker’s absence. Comment. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Moderate
Reference: Indian Express
Why the question: With the Opposition’s increased strength in Lok Sabha, its members are hoping to get the post of Deputy Speaker. There was no Deputy Speaker for the entire duration of the 17th Lok Sabha (2019-24). Key Demand of the question: To write about the powers of the Deputy Speaker and importance of his office. Directive word: Comment– here we must express our knowledge and understanding of the issue and form an overall opinion thereupon. Structure of the answer: Introduction: Begin by mentioning Article 93 of the Indian Constitution. Body: First, in detail enumerate the various roles and responsibilities of the Deputy Speaker of the Lok Sabha in the functioning of our parliamentary democracy. Mention the process of the election of the Deputy Speaker of the Lok Sabha. Shed light on the convention followed in electing the Deputy Speaker. Next, write about that importance of the office of Deputy Speaker in the Indian parliamentary proceedings. Conclusion: Conclude by underscoring the need to fill constitutionally mandated positions.
Why the question:
With the Opposition’s increased strength in Lok Sabha, its members are hoping to get the post of Deputy Speaker. There was no Deputy Speaker for the entire duration of the 17th Lok Sabha (2019-24).
Key Demand of the question:
To write about the powers of the Deputy Speaker and importance of his office.
Directive word:
Comment– here we must express our knowledge and understanding of the issue and form an overall opinion thereupon.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by mentioning Article 93 of the Indian Constitution.
First, in detail enumerate the various roles and responsibilities of the Deputy Speaker of the Lok Sabha in the functioning of our parliamentary democracy. Mention the process of the election of the Deputy Speaker of the Lok Sabha. Shed light on the convention followed in electing the Deputy Speaker.
Next, write about that importance of the office of Deputy Speaker in the Indian parliamentary proceedings.
Conclusion:
Conclude by underscoring the need to fill constitutionally mandated positions.
Topic: Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure, devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein.
Topic: Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure, devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein.
4. Panchayats struggle to function as self-governing institutions due to financial dependence on state funds and excessive bureaucratic control, limiting their autonomy and effectiveness. Critically examine. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Moderate
Reference: Indian Express
Why the question: The 16th Finance Commission should give more voice to local governments. Key Demand of the question: To write about the shortcomings of PRI’s on fiscal and functional decentralisation and suggest measures to overcome them. Directive word: Critically examine – When asked to ‘Examine’, we have to look into 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. When ‘critically’ is suffixed or prefixed to a directive, one needs to look at the good and bad of the topic and give a fair judgment. Structure of the answer: Introduction: Begin by writing about the aims and objectives of 73rd Constitution Amendment Act. Body: First, write in detail about how political decentralisation has been a success with respect to PRI’s. Write about the various achievements of these bodies. Next, write about various shortcomings of PRIs on fiscal decentralisation – lack of funds, issues with CSS, lack of agency to generate own revenues etc. Next, write about various shortcomings of PRIs on functional decentralisation – overlapping functions with state government, absence of a proper workforce, accountability issues etc. Next, suggest measures to overcome the above. Conclusion: Conclude with a way forward.
Why the question:
The 16th Finance Commission should give more voice to local governments.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about the shortcomings of PRI’s on fiscal and functional decentralisation and suggest measures to overcome them.
Directive word:
Critically examine – When asked to ‘Examine’, we have to look into 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. When ‘critically’ is suffixed or prefixed to a directive, one needs to look at the good and bad of the topic and give a fair judgment.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by writing about the aims and objectives of 73rd Constitution Amendment Act.
First, write in detail about how political decentralisation has been a success with respect to PRI’s. Write about the various achievements of these bodies.
Next, write about various shortcomings of PRIs on fiscal decentralisation – lack of funds, issues with CSS, lack of agency to generate own revenues etc.
Next, write about various shortcomings of PRIs on functional decentralisation – overlapping functions with state government, absence of a proper workforce, accountability issues etc.
Next, suggest measures to overcome the above.
Conclusion:
Conclude with a way forward.
General Studies – 3
Topic: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development and employment.
Topic: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development and employment.
5. To ensure adequate job creation, India needs a multi-faceted approach that can collectively foster a robust job market and sustainable economic growth. Discuss. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Moderate
Reference: Live Mint , Insights on India
Why the question: For developing countries like India, the economy’s emergence hinges on raising productivity in labour-absorbing services. As with industrial policy, the equivalent deployed in this sector needs clarity of purpose. Key Demand of the question: To write about steps that are needed to overcome unemployment and ensure adequate job creation in the country. 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 the context regarding the unemployment in India. Body: Firstly, write about the important causes that led to the increasing the levels of unemployment – supporting MSMEs, investing in infrastructure, enhancing education and skills, encouraging entrepreneurship, economic slowdowns, education and skills gaps, dominance of the informal sector, disparities in labor force participation, urban-rural imbalances etc. Next, write about the steps that must be taken to reduce the employment levels in the economy – Labour-intensive measures, Accelerating Investment, diversification of agriculture, decentralised development and upskilling etc. Conclusion: Conclude with a way forward.
Why the question:
For developing countries like India, the economy’s emergence hinges on raising productivity in labour-absorbing services. As with industrial policy, the equivalent deployed in this sector needs clarity of purpose.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about steps that are needed to overcome unemployment and ensure adequate job creation in the country.
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 the context regarding the unemployment in India.
Firstly, write about the important causes that led to the increasing the levels of unemployment – supporting MSMEs, investing in infrastructure, enhancing education and skills, encouraging entrepreneurship, economic slowdowns, education and skills gaps, dominance of the informal sector, disparities in labor force participation, urban-rural imbalances etc.
Next, write about the steps that must be taken to reduce the employment levels in the economy – Labour-intensive measures, Accelerating Investment, diversification of agriculture, decentralised development and upskilling etc.
Conclusion:
Conclude with a way forward.
Topic: Challenges to internal security through communication networks, role of media and social networking sites in internal security challenges
Topic: Challenges to internal security through communication networks, role of media and social networking sites in internal security challenges
6. what are the UN Global Principles for Information Integrity? Clear legal frameworks and principles can act as a deterrent and provide accountability for individuals promoting hate speech, mitigating its potential escalation into real-world violence and conflict. Analyse. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Tough
Reference: Down to Earth , Insights on India.
Why the question: The United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres unveiled the Global Principles for Information Integrity, a comprehensive framework aimed at addressing the escalating threats posed by misinformation, disinformation, and hate speech in the digital realm. Key Demand of the question: To write about the UN Global Principles for Information Integrity and its role in tackling hate speech. 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. Introduction: Begin by giving context of UN Global Principles for Information Integrity. Body: First, in detail write about the various UN Global Principles for Information Integrity. Next, write in detail about various legal and constitutional measures that have been provided for curbing hate speech. Also, mention measures needed to curb hate speech. Conclusion: Conclude by writing a way forward.
Why the question:
The United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres unveiled the Global Principles for Information Integrity, a comprehensive framework aimed at addressing the escalating threats posed by misinformation, disinformation, and hate speech in the digital realm.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about the UN Global Principles for Information Integrity and its role in tackling hate speech.
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.
Introduction:
Begin by giving context of UN Global Principles for Information Integrity.
First, in detail write about the various UN Global Principles for Information Integrity.
Next, write in detail about various legal and constitutional measures that have been provided for curbing hate speech. Also, mention measures needed to curb hate speech.
Conclusion:
Conclude by writing a way forward.
General Studies – 4
Topic: Citizen’s Charters
Topic: Citizen’s Charters
7. List the inadequacies of citizen charters in India and propose ways to enhance their effectiveness to enhance the delivery of public services. (150 Words)
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Why the question: The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 4. Structure of the answer: Introduction: Begin by defining citizen charter. Body: First, mention the shortcoming of citizen charters – not formulated through a consultative process, lack of awareness, absence of grievance redressal etc. Next, suggest steps to overcome the above shortcomings. Conclusion: Conclude by stressing on need to make the charters effective to provide high quality public service delivery.
Why the question:
The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 4.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by defining citizen charter.
First, mention the shortcoming of citizen charters – not formulated through a consultative process, lack of awareness, absence of grievance redressal etc.
Next, suggest steps to overcome the above shortcomings.
Conclusion:
Conclude by stressing on need to make the charters effective to provide high quality public service delivery.
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