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Indian Express
12 hours ago
- Climate
- Indian Express
Mains answer practice — GS 1 : Questions on inclusive education and influence of La Niña on global weather systems (Week 105)
UPSC Essentials brings to you its initiative for the practice of Mains answer writing. It covers essential topics of static and dynamic parts of the UPSC Civil Services syllabus covered under various GS papers. This answer-writing practice is designed to help you as a value addition to your UPSC CSE Mains. Attempt today's answer writing on questions related to topics of GS-1 to check your progress. 🚨 Click Here to read the UPSC Essentials magazine for May 2025. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at Examine the influence of La Niña on global weather systems and its implications for climate forecasting. Why do global climate models sometimes struggle to accurately predict La Niña events? India's evolving digital infrastructure has played a key role in promoting inclusive education. Critically discuss the opportunities and challenges this transformation presents. Introduction — The introduction of the answer is essential and should be restricted to 3-5 lines. Remember, a one-liner is not a standard introduction. — It may consist of basic information by giving some definitions from the trusted source and authentic facts. Body — It is the central part of the answer and one should understand the demand of the question to provide rich content. — The answer must be preferably written as a mix of points and short paragraphs rather than using long paragraphs or just points. — Using facts from authentic government sources makes your answer more comprehensive. Analysis is important based on the demand of the question, but do not over analyse. — Underlining keywords gives you an edge over other candidates and enhances presentation of the answer. — Using flowcharts/tree-diagram in the answers saves much time and boosts your score. However, it should be used logically and only where it is required. Way forward/ conclusion — The ending of the answer should be on a positive note and it should have a forward-looking approach. However, if you feel that an important problem must be highlighted, you may add it in your conclusion. Try not to repeat any point from body or introduction. — You may use the findings of reports or surveys conducted at national and international levels, quotes etc. in your answers. Self Evaluation — It is the most important part of our Mains answer writing practice. UPSC Essentials will provide some guiding points or ideas as a thought process that will help you to evaluate your answers. QUESTION 1: Examine the influence of La Niña on global weather systems and its implications for climate forecasting. Why do global climate models sometimes struggle to accurately predict La Niña events? Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — La Niña means 'Little Girl' in Spanish. La Niña is sometimes known as El Viejo, anti-El Niño, or 'a cold event.' La Niña has the opposite effect of El Niño. During La Niña, trade winds are stronger than usual, bringing warmer water to Asia. Upwelling occurs off the West Coast of the Americas, bringing cold, nutrient-rich water to the surface. – The chilly waters of the Pacific force the jet stream north. This often causes drought in the southern United States and heavy rains and flooding in the Pacific Northwest and Canada. During a La Niña, winter temperatures are lower in the north and warmer in the south. La Niña might lead to a more severe hurricane season. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reported that equatorial sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean were close to or below average last year. During the 'watch' phase of La Niña in November and early December, ENSO conditions were neutral. — The Oceanic Nino Index (ONI) in the Nino 3.4 zone, one of four key regions in the equatorial Pacific Ocean used to identify the ENSO phase, was -0.3°C. — Temperature variations from the equatorial Pacific's three-monthly average sea surface temperature are used to calculate the ONI. A La Niña begins when the ONI in this region is -0.5 degrees or lower. — If ONI readings exceed the threshold, temperatures will swiftly return to normal, resulting in a short and mild La Niña episode. Experts estimate that the weak La Niña will become ENSO-neutral from March to May 2025. This indicates that La Niña will have minimal impact on the Indian winter this year. Conclusion: — Weather models perform better when sea surface temperatures shift significantly, such as during a major El Niño or La Niña event. — This is unlikely to be the case this time, which has likely resulted in weather models failing to accurately predict conditions because they are unable to account for minute temperature differences in their inputs. (Source: Where is La Niña? And why did global models err in their predictions? by Anjali Marar, Points to Ponder What is the Indian Ocean Dipole? How it can limit El Nino effects Read about El Nino and La Nina Related Previous Year Questions Most of the unusual climatic happenings are explained as an outcome of the El-Nino effect. Do you agree? (2014) What is a twister? Why are the majority of twisters observed in areas around the Gulf of Mexico? (2024) QUESTION 2: India's evolving digital infrastructure has played a key role in promoting inclusive education. Critically discuss the opportunities and challenges this transformation presents. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — Pioneering digital public infrastructure (DPI) trials have enabled India's digital landscape to undergo such a spectacular transition. — These DPIs are digital channels that allow for the smooth delivery of important services, which benefits society. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — The Indian DPI ecosystem, known as the 'India Stack,' has played a critical role in harnessing the power of identities, payments, and data interchange to drive economic growth and build a more equitable digital economy. — The Right to Education statute applies until the age of 14 or Std VIII, which is the conclusion of the elementary school stage. — The number of AI-based tutoring systems is expanding. — Indian DPIs have the potential to close wealth gaps and build a resilient and effective digital economy that benefits individuals and organisations, beginning with empowering small businesses to improve access to healthcare and promoting financial and digital inclusion for citizens from less affluent socioeconomic backgrounds. — The recently released Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) 2023, which surveyed 14-18-year-olds across the country, discovered that nearly 89 per cent of those polled had a smartphone at home. An even higher percentage, 92 per cent, said they could use a smartphone. Conclusion: — Although the National Achievement Survey (NAS) and ASER use different metrics and methods for assessing learning, both point to the fact that basic learning levels of elementary school children need significant improvement. — India has achieved universal elementary education enrollment, and we are on track to attain universal secondary and higher secondary enrollment. (Source: ASER 2023: Male youth in rural India dominate smartphone ownership, girls lag in digital skills, How smartphones can make education inclusive by Madhav Chavan, ASER 2023 report: On education, let's listen to the teenagers by Rukmini Banerji) Points to Ponder National Achievement Survey (NAS) National Education Policy, 2020 Related Previous Year Questions Examine the uniqueness of tribal knowledge systems when compared with mainstream knowledge and cultural systems. (2021) Discuss the main objectives of Population Education and point out the measures to achieve them in India in detail. (2021) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 3 (Week 104) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 3 (Week 105) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 2 (Week 104) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 2 (Week 105) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 1 (Week 104) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 1 (Week 103) Subscribe to our UPSC newsletter and stay updated with the news cues from the past week. Stay updated with the latest UPSC articles by joining our Telegram channel – IndianExpress UPSC Hub, and follow us on Instagram and X.
Indian Express
30-05-2025
- General
- Indian Express
Mains answer practice — GS 1 : Questions on impact of climate change on rain patterns in India and role of Indian National Army (Week 104)
UPSC Essentials brings to you its initiative for the practice of Mains answer writing. It covers essential topics of static and dynamic parts of the UPSC Civil Services syllabus covered under various GS papers. This answer-writing practice is designed to help you as a value addition to your UPSC CSE Mains. Attempt today's answer writing on questions related to topics of GS-1 to check your progress. 🚨 Click Here to read the UPSC Essentials magazine for May 2025. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at How has climate change influenced the monsoon rain pattern in India? How did the Indian National Army (INA) contribute to India's independence without fighting on the battlefield? Introduction — The introduction of the answer is essential and should be restricted to 3-5 lines. Remember, a one-liner is not a standard introduction. — It may consist of basic information by giving some definitions from the trusted source and authentic facts. Body — It is the central part of the answer and one should understand the demand of the question to provide rich content. — The answer must be preferably written as a mix of points and short paragraphs rather than using long paragraphs or just points. — Using facts from authentic government sources makes your answer more comprehensive. Analysis is important based on the demand of the question, but do not over analyse. — Underlining keywords gives you an edge over other candidates and enhances presentation of the answer. — Using flowcharts/tree-diagram in the answers saves much time and boosts your score. However, it should be used logically and only where it is required. Way forward/ conclusion — The ending of the answer should be on a positive note and it should have a forward-looking approach. However, if you feel that an important problem must be highlighted, you may add it in your conclusion. Try not to repeat any point from body or introduction. — You may use the findings of reports or surveys conducted at national and international levels, quotes etc. in your answers. Self Evaluation — It is the most important part of our Mains answer writing practice. UPSC Essentials will provide some guiding points or ideas as a thought process that will help you to evaluate your answers. QUESTION 1: How has climate change influenced the monsoon rain pattern in India? Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — A monsoon is a shift in winds that frequently results in a highly rainy or very dry season. Monsoons are typically connected with portions of Asia. — There are two notable types of monsoon in India: (i) Southwest monsoon: It occurs from June to September. It hits Kerala on the southwestern coast and then proceeds across the country. This monsoon is the primary monsoon affecting India — it not only brings respite from the heat but also contributes to the country's ecosystem and economy, especially the growing of kharif crops. (ii) Northeast monsoon: It is also known as the retreating monsoon, which occurs from October to December and affects peninsular India. It isn't as intense as the southwest monsoon but is crucial for the growth of rabi crops. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: Effects of climate change on rain patterns in India — According to the study, monsoon patterns in India have been fast-shifting. It is mainly driven by the accelerating rate of climate change. — The southwest monsoon rainfall rose in 55% of India's tehsils. The increase, however, has resulted from short-duration, severe rainfall, which frequently causes flash floods. — During the southwest monsoon in India, wet extremes account for an increasing share of total seasonal rainfall. — Changes in monsoon patterns can affect agriculture output and ecosystems. — Rainfall is not distributed evenly throughout the seasons and months. (Source: How India's monsoon rain pattern has been changing amid climate) Points to Ponder Cropping season Retreating monsoon Related Previous Year Questions Discuss the consequence of Climate change on the food security in tropical countries. (2023) What characteristics can be assigned to monsoon climate that succeeds in feeding more than 50 percent of the world population residing in Monsoon Asia? (2017) QUESTION 2: How did the Indian National Army (INA) contribute to India's independence without fighting on the battlefield? Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — The Indian National Army was formed on February 17, 1942, two days after the British surrendered to Japanese forces in Singapore. — It primarily consisted of Indian prisoners of war (PoWs) seized by the Japanese during their Southeast Asia campaign. The Japanese believed that a native Indian force would be an effective weapon in their intended takeover of India. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — Over the next six months, he would pull off a public relations coup, gaining support — both material and human — from the Indian diaspora in Japanese-occupied Southeast Asia. — The INA soon expanded to more than 40,000 members, and many Indians contributed their life savings to the cause. — Bose had hoped for a large-scale insurrection within the country to supplement the INA's offensive on the border. 'When the British government is thus attacked from both sides — from inside India and from outside — it will collapse, and the Indian people will then regain their liberty,' he declared in a speech delivered on July 9, 1943. — After being unable to take Imphal and Kohima, the supply starved INA, along with its Japanese allies, was forced to retreat, all while suffering heavy losses due to the enemy's air superiority and gunpowder, as well as starvation and disease. — By 1945, the British had launched their own campaign to retake Burma, and the INA once again found itself in retreat. — After the United States dropped two atomic bombs on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Japan surrendered on August 15. (Source: How Bose's INA helped India win independence — but not on the battlefield) Points to Ponder Red Fort trials Regiments of INA Related Previous Year Questions It would have been difficult for the Constituent Assembly to complete its historic task of drafting the Constitution for Independent India in just three years but for the experience gained with the Government of India Act, 1935. Discuss. (2015) Highlight the difference in the approach of Subhash Chandra Bose and Mahatma Gandhi in the struggle for freedom. (2016) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 3 (Week 104) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 3 (Week 103) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 2 (Week 104) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 2 (Week 103) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 1 (Week 102) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 1 (Week 103) Subscribe to our UPSC newsletter and stay updated with the news cues from the past week. Stay updated with the latest UPSC articles by joining our Telegram channel – IndianExpress UPSC Hub, and follow us on Instagram and X.
Indian Express
23-05-2025
- General
- Indian Express
Mains answer practice — GS 1 : Questions on impact of heatwaves in Indian cities and historical evolution of the term ‘caste' (Week 103)
UPSC Essentials brings to you its initiative for the practice of Mains answer writing. It covers essential topics of static and dynamic parts of the UPSC Civil Services syllabus covered under various GS papers. This answer-writing practice is designed to help you as a value addition to your UPSC CSE Mains. Attempt today's answer writing on questions related to topics of GS-1 to check your progress. 🚨 Click Here to read the UPSC Essentials magazine for May 2025. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at The urban heat island effect exacerbates the impact of heatwaves in Indian cities. Analyse the effectiveness of interventions like reflective roofing, green spaces, and cooling centers in mitigating this effect. The term 'caste' is widely used to describe India's social stratification system. However, the word itself has European origins, and it was introduced by Portuguese traders in the 15th century. Discuss the historical evolution of the term 'caste'. Introduction — The introduction of the answer is essential and should be restricted to 3-5 lines. Remember, a one-liner is not a standard introduction. — It may consist of basic information by giving some definitions from the trusted source and authentic facts. Body — It is the central part of the answer and one should understand the demand of the question to provide rich content. — The answer must be preferably written as a mix of points and short paragraphs rather than using long paragraphs or just points. — Using facts from authentic government sources makes your answer more comprehensive. Analysis is important based on the demand of the question, but do not over analyse. — Underlining keywords gives you an edge over other candidates and enhances presentation of the answer. — Using flowcharts/tree-diagram in the answers saves much time and boosts your score. However, it should be used logically and only where it is required. Way forward/ conclusion — The ending of the answer should be on a positive note and it should have a forward-looking approach. However, if you feel that an important problem must be highlighted, you may add it in your conclusion. Try not to repeat any point from body or introduction. — You may use the findings of reports or surveys conducted at national and international levels, quotes etc. in your answers. Self Evaluation — It is the most important part of our Mains answer writing practice. UPSC Essentials will provide some guiding points or ideas as a thought process that will help you to evaluate your answers. QUESTION 1: The urban heat island effect exacerbates the impact of heatwaves in Indian cities. Analyse the effectiveness of interventions like reflective roofing, green spaces, and cooling centers in mitigating this effect. Introduction: — Heatwaves have become a public health and economic emergency, with temperatures in several sections of the country exceeding 45 degrees Celsius (113°F). The lack of heatwave-specific infrastructure puts millions of people at danger of mortality, heatstroke, and dehydration. — As climate change increases the frequency and intensity of excessive heat, India must move quickly to build a strong, national heatwave mitigation strategy. Body: — Geographically, the country is prone to heatwaves. Between March and June, more than 80% of the country experiences high heat, with northern and central areas such as Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh frequently reaching more than 40 degrees Celsius. Urban areas like Delhi, Ahmedabad, and Chennai become heat sinks, and the heat builds up on the concrete-heavy skyline due to the urban heat island (UHI) effect. — A 2023 Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) study predicts that heatwaves would become 30% more frequent and intense by 2050. Impact of heatwaves in Indian cities — Heatwaves endanger the livelihoods of India's vast outdoor workforce. Heat-induced productivity losses in India are predicted to cost $100 billion by 2022. According to the International Labour Organisation (ILO), small companies in the informal economy bear a disproportionate burden. — In 2024, Delhi recorded more than 200 heatwave-related deaths in a single week, with hospitals and mortuaries at capacity. These are not isolated events, but rather indicators of systemic underpreparedness. — Without infrastructure to combat these situations, the impact on human health may be and is severe. Heatstroke, organ failure, and cardiovascular strain disproportionately affect the elderly, children, and low-income groups, who do not have access to cooling or medical care. Mitigation of Heat Waves — Public-private collaborations can hasten progress. Private companies might provide cooling technology, while non-governmental organisations (NGOs) could coordinate community engagement. Given India's high vulnerability to climate change, international support, such as climate adaptation funds, could help to offset costs. — Every town, city, and rural area should have cooling centres that are easily accessible to everyone. Shelters equipped with water, shade, fans, and basic medical care provided by a local ambulance service might be useful during extreme heat. — Urban planning that prioritises heat-resilient design is required. Reflective roofs, improved ventilation, and green spaces can all help to reduce outdoor temperatures significantly. — Early warning systems, which are already operational in states such as Gujarat and Odisha, must be implemented on a national basis. — Cheap cooling systems are critical for low-income families. Subsidised fans, evaporative coolers, and community cooling stations could help bridge the gap for the nearly 88% of Indian families without access to air conditioning. — The healthcare industry must be prepared for a heatwave, with trained personnel, ample supplies, and well-planned processes for dealing with the conditions and patients suffering from heat-related disorders. Conclusion: — Building a national heatwave infrastructure is more than a policy choice; it is a moral and economic necessity. — Planting heat-tolerant plants and establishing urban forests should be a national priority in combating heat island impacts. — Mobile apps and SMS notifications can function in remote locations, but they necessitate investment in digital infrastructure. (Source: Five things India needs to do to combat heatwave) Points to Ponder Read more about heatwaves How heatwave is declared – is there any difference between heatwave in plains and heatwave in hilly terrain? Related Previous Year Questions What is the phenomenon of 'Cloudbursts'? Explain. (2024) Bring out the causes for the formation of heat islands in the urban habitat of the world. What do you understand by the phenomenon of 'temperature inversion' in meteorology? How does it affect weather and the habitants of the place? (2013) QUESTION 2: The term 'caste' is widely used to describe India's social stratification system. However, the word itself has European origins, and it was introduced by Portuguese traders in the 15th century. Discuss the historical evolution of the term 'caste'. Introduction: — In India, caste is seen as an ancient Hindu social system founded on the notions of varna (class), karma (activity), and dharma (obligation), as outlined in the legal classic Manusmriti. — The varna system classified society into four major groups: Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras, with the 'untouchables' falling outside and below this hierarchy. Body: — Despite having ancient roots in Indian history, the present concept and usage of the term 'caste' arose from European involvement. According to sociologist Surinder S Jodhka in Caste: Oxford India Short Introductions (2012), the term 'caste' is the English translation of the Spanish word casta, which means 'race'. — Portuguese traders landed on India's west coast in the 15th century and were the first to use the phrase in reference to Indian society. — The Portuguese served key roles as interpreters, seamen, and clerks. According to historian Sumit Guha's Beyond Caste: Identity and Power in South Asia, Past and Present (2013), their language 'became a major lingua franca in the Asian seas.' Westerners began to understand and characterise Indian society using Portuguese as a lingua franca, with the British leading the way. — Spain and Portugal spearheaded early European colonial expansion and established the Atlantic slave trade in the 15th and 16th centuries. Guha explains that casta originally referred to a pure lineage or species. When applied to individuals, it described a social order based on biological parenting, with a group's purity and nobleness determined by the chastity of its women. Iberian explorers utilised this concept to categorise the groups they found during imperial expansion in the Americas and Asia, viewing them as biologically distinct and ranking. — In a similar vein to the Indic idea of jati, Guha observes that some vocations, such as executioners and tanners, were seen to 'stain' the character of people who performed them and their descendants due to their relationship with mortality. These worries were important to the Indian caste system, 'though in it fear of contamination of body substance by impure food or touch was much more prominent.' — According to Guha, Spanish American regulations in the 18th century prohibited marrying between high and low-status groups, a practice known as varṇa-saṁkara in Sanskrit. The Portuguese, the first Europeans to interact with Indian civilisation, 'were evolving a system of ethnic and social stratification by biological ancestry,' and thus, according to Guha, they concluded Indian jatis were also created to protect 'purity of blood.' (Source: Caste: how a Spanish word, carried by the Portuguese, came to describe social order in India) Points to Ponder Read more about Portugese Read about varna system Related Previous Year Questions Intercaste marriages between castes which have socio-economic parity have increased, to some extent, but this is less true of interreligious marriages. Discuss. (2024) Why is caste identity in India both fluid and static? (2023) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 3 (Week 102) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 3 (Week 103) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 2 (Week 102) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 2 (Week 103) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 1 (Week 102) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 1 (Week 101) Subscribe to our UPSC newsletter and stay updated with the news cues from the past week. Stay updated with the latest UPSC articles by joining our Telegram channel – IndianExpress UPSC Hub, and follow us on Instagram and X.
Indian Express
16-05-2025
- General
- Indian Express
Mains answer practice — GS 1 : Questions on air pollution control and weather balloons (Week 102)
UPSC Essentials brings to you its initiative for the practice of Mains answer writing. It covers essential topics of static and dynamic parts of the UPSC Civil Services syllabus covered under various GS papers. This answer-writing practice is designed to help you as a value addition to your UPSC CSE Mains. Attempt today's answer writing on questions related to topics of GS-1 to check your progress. 🚨 Click Here to read the UPSC Essentials magazine for May 2025. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at India has achieved gains in a variety of sectors through initiatives such as 'Make in India' and 'Atmanirbhar Bharat'. However, in terms of air pollution control, the country continues to rely largely on foreign data, technologies, and cooperation. Critically analyse. Weather balloons have proved useful in gathering upper-atmosphere data required for precise weather forecasting. With technological developments and recent funding constraints resulting in fewer launches, critically analyse the function of weather balloons in modern meteorology. Introduction — The introduction of the answer is essential and should be restricted to 3-5 lines. Remember, a one-liner is not a standard introduction. — It may consist of basic information by giving some definitions from the trusted source and authentic facts. Body — It is the central part of the answer and one should understand the demand of the question to provide rich content. — The answer must be preferably written as a mix of points and short paragraphs rather than using long paragraphs or just points. — Using facts from authentic government sources makes your answer more comprehensive. Analysis is important based on the demand of the question, but do not over analyse. — Underlining keywords gives you an edge over other candidates and enhances presentation of the answer. — Using flowcharts/tree-diagram in the answers saves much time and boosts your score. However, it should be used logically and only where it is required. Way forward/ conclusion — The ending of the answer should be on a positive note and it should have a forward-looking approach. However, if you feel that an important problem must be highlighted, you may add it in your conclusion. Try not to repeat any point from body or introduction. — You may use the findings of reports or surveys conducted at national and international levels, quotes etc. in your answers. Self Evaluation — It is the most important part of our Mains answer writing practice. UPSC Essentials will provide some guiding points or ideas as a thought process that will help you to evaluate your answers. QUESTION 1: India has achieved gains in a variety of sectors through initiatives such as 'Make in India' and 'Atmanirbhar Bharat'. However, in terms of air pollution control, the country continues to rely largely on foreign data, technologies, and cooperation. Critically analyse. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — The Make in India drive has bolstered the spirit of the country's youth. From space technology and the Moon Mission to Covid-19 vaccines to Vande Bharat trains, the country has demonstrated its capabilities. However, when it comes to improving air quality and minimising the health effects of pollution, we fall behind. — Air pollution is one of India's most critical issues, yet we have not completely comprehended its intricacies. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — India has a long history of air quality improvements. In 1984, the country pioneered the National Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Programme. Another watershed moment in Indian history was the capital's fast switch to a CNG-powered public transport fleet. An important scientific milestone occurred in 2010, when India established its first domestic air quality forecasting system, SAFAR (System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research), despite opposition from foreign institutions. — Some Indian states are taking admirable efforts, such as accelerating the switch to electric vehicles. India also boasts world-class agencies, such as the Earth System Science Organisation (ESSO) and the India Meteorological Department. A closer partnership between ESSO-IMD and the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) could establish a global standard for air quality management and forecasting. — Despite programs such as Make in India, unspent cash, an abundance of talent, a young workforce, and openness to corporate sponsorship, why is India still struggling to attain true 'atmanirbharta'? — The main difficulty is the lack of an integrated air quality resource framework. A single platform is required to support a science-based information system and knowledge centre. This would enable decision-makers and the private sector to make informed choices. — The National Institute of Advanced Studies has conducted research into a novel approach to airshed management, which incorporates finely gridded source emissions. This effort intends to speed pollution management techniques, which could help achieve the net-zero target. This led to the development of the concept of NARFI, a resource framework intended to serve as a catalyst for inter-organisational collaboration, multidisciplinary research, and evidence-based decision making. Conclusion: — It is important to reconsider air quality measures by objectively including broader airshed concerns rather than taking city-centric approaches. India must prioritise health-related measures and food security. (Source: India's air pollution strategy needs atmanirbharta) Points to Ponder Read more about air pollution and green house gases Read about recent initiatives of India to combat air pollution Related Previous Year Questions Mumbai, Delhi and Kolkata are the three mega cities of the country but the air pollution is much more serious problem in Delhi as compared to the other two. Why is this so? (2015) QUESTION 2: Weather balloons have proved useful in gathering upper-atmosphere data required for precise weather forecasting. With technological developments and recent funding constraints resulting in fewer launches, critically analyse the function of weather balloons in modern meteorology. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — The practice of making upper-air observations dates back to the 18th century. It all started in 1749, when two students from Glasgow, Scotland, used kites to record temperature at great altitudes. Meteorologists began to launch kites into the upper atmosphere carrying aloft sensors known as meteorographs, which measured pressure, temperature, and relative humidity. — The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration NOAA has reduced its weather balloon launches around the United States after the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) decreased the agency's funding by 25%. This resulted in hundreds of layoffs or voluntary resignations, and fewer balloon launches by NOAA. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — Weather balloons are used by weather agencies all around the world to collect upper air measurements, which are critical for forecasting. Upper air refers to the Earth's atmosphere above 5,000 feet, from which the globe receives rain and drought, wind and stillness, heat and cold at its surface. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) also uses weather balloons to assess meteorological variables. — French meteorologist Leon Teisserenc de Bort was one of the first to employ weather balloons. He is reported to have launched hundreds of these balloons as early as 1896, revealing the tropopause and stratosphere. — This enabled meteorologists to make observations from hitherto inaccessible heights. When the weather balloon holding the meteorograph reached a specific altitude, it would burst, allowing the device to gently drop to Earth and preserve the data until it could be collected. — However, there were some obstacles. For example, meteorological data would not be readily available for weather forecasting. There was also the possibility of losing the data if the meteorograph was not found. — These concerns were addressed with the advent of radiosondes, or radio-meteorographs, in the early 1930s. The equipment, which was smaller than a coffee cup, was capable of measuring meteorological variables in the atmosphere as well as transmitting the data back to a ground station. Significance of weather balloons — Weather balloons continue to be important in an age of satellites for a variety of reasons. For example, while satellites are good at providing a broad image and ground measurements, weather balloons help provide information on the critical middle piece of the forecasting puzzle – the atmosphere, which is where most weather occurrences occur. — These balloons receive 'the detailed lower atmospheric level of temperature and humidity.' Conclusion: — Currently, over 900 weather stations worldwide launch weather balloons twice a day as part of a coordinated international program to measure upper-atmosphere conditions. The balloons are launched simultaneously so that meteorologists may obtain a complete picture of atmospheric conditions, which is required for reliable weather forecasting. (Source: NOAA slashes its weather balloon launches: Why is this significant?) Points to Ponder Read more about weather balloons Read science behind the hot air balloons Read the principle of thermodynamics Why is Helium used in balloons? Related Previous Year Questions Discuss the meaning of colour-coded weather warnings for cyclone prone areas given by India Meteorological Department. (2022) Troposphere is a very significant atmosphere layer that determines weather processes. How? (2022) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 3 (Week 102) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 3 (Week 101) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 2 (Week 102) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 2 (Week 101) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 1 (Week 100) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 1 (Week 101) Subscribe to our UPSC newsletter and stay updated with the news cues from the past week. Stay updated with the latest UPSC articles by joining our Telegram channel – IndianExpress UPSC Hub, and follow us on Instagram and X.
Indian Express
09-05-2025
- Science
- Indian Express
Mains answer practice — GS 1 : Questions on major divisions of the ocean floor and below-normal, normal, and above-normal rainfall (Week 101)
UPSC Essentials brings to you its initiative for the practice of Mains answer writing. It covers essential topics of static and dynamic parts of the UPSC Civil Services syllabus covered under various GS papers. This answer-writing practice is designed to help you as a value addition to your UPSC CSE Mains. Attempt today's answer writing on questions related to topics of GS-1 to check your progress. 🚨 Click Here to read the UPSC Essentials magazine for April 2025. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at What is meant by below-normal, normal, and above-normal rainfall? Explain the factors responsible for the distorted distribution of rainfall. Describe the main divisions of the ocean floor and discuss the characteristics and formation processes of each. Introduction — The introduction of the answer is essential and should be restricted to 3-5 lines. Remember, a one-liner is not a standard introduction. — It may consist of basic information by giving some definitions from the trusted source and authentic facts. Body — It is the central part of the answer and one should understand the demand of the question to provide rich content. — The answer must be preferably written as a mix of points and short paragraphs rather than using long paragraphs or just points. — Using facts from authentic government sources makes your answer more comprehensive. Analysis is important based on the demand of the question, but do not over analyse. — Underlining keywords gives you an edge over other candidates and enhances presentation of the answer. — Using flowcharts/tree-diagram in the answers saves much time and boosts your score. However, it should be used logically and only where it is required. Way forward/ conclusion — The ending of the answer should be on a positive note and it should have a forward-looking approach. However, if you feel that an important problem must be highlighted, you may add it in your conclusion. Try not to repeat any point from body or introduction. — You may use the findings of reports or surveys conducted at national and international levels, quotes etc. in your answers. Self Evaluation — It is the most important part of our Mains answer writing practice. UPSC Essentials will provide some guiding points or ideas as a thought process that will help you to evaluate your answers. QUESTION 1: What is meant by below-normal, normal, and above-normal rainfall? Explain the factors responsible for the distorted distribution of rainfall. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — The total monthly rainfall in India for a given month. Similarly, all-India seasonal rainfall refers to the total amount of rainfall received across India during a certain season. — The monsoon season begins in June and extends across the southern peninsula, delivering rain to central India. However, rainfall in June was 11% below normal across the country. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: Calculation of below-average, normal, and above-normal rainfall — If 'm' is the mean and 'd' is the standard deviation of any climate variable like rainfall. Assuming the time series is normally distributed, 68 per cent of the observations fall within +/- standard deviation (d) from the mean. — If the realised value of the variable falls between: (i) m-d to m+d (Normal rainfall) (ii) less than m-d (Below normal rainfall) (iii) more than m+d (Above normal rainfall) Reasons for distorted rainfall distribution — The central and southern peninsular regions have received an excess of rainfall, owing primarily to the position of the monsoon trough — a semi-permanent, low-pressure area that extends between Pakistan and the Bay of Bengal during the monsoon season and typically oscillates between north and south throughout the season. — When it advances south, as it has done in this case, additional rain can fall in central, eastern, and peninsular India. When it changes to the north, the Himalayan foothills are likely to receive more rainfall, while the rest of India would have less rainfall. — Other rain-bearing weather systems, such as an off-shore trough (a shallow trough of low pressure that forms along India's coast during the monsoon season), have also contributed to excess rainfall in the central and southern peninsular regions. — Since the monsoon trough has yet to move northward, rainfall has been insufficient in the northwest, extreme north, east, and northeast regions this season. Furthermore, there have been fewer rain-bearing weather systems, and those that formed did not reach or bring rain to these areas. (Source: How is the rainfall performance during the ongoing monsoon season? by Anjali Marar, Points to Ponder Read more about El Nino and La Nina Read about types of clouds and types of rainfall Related Previous Year Questions Why is the South-West Monsoon called 'Purvaiya' (easterly) in Bhojpur Region? How has this directional seasonal wind system influenced the cultured ethos of the region? (2023) What characteristics can be assigned to monsoon climate that succeeds in feeding more than 50 per cent of the world population residing in Monsoon Asia? (2017) QUESTION 2: Describe the main divisions of the ocean floor and discuss the characteristics and formation processes of each. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — The oceans are limited to the vast depressions in the earth's outer layer. The waters naturally blend, making it difficult to distinguish between them. Geographers have classified the oceanic portion of the world into five oceans: the Pacific, the Atlantic, the Indian, the Southern, and the Arctic. — These huge oceans include several seas, bays, gulfs, and inlets. A significant percentage of the ocean floor is located between 3-6 kilometres below sea level. The ocean floors are rough, featuring the world's greatest mountain ranges, deepest trenches, and vast plains. — As with continents, these features are generated by tectonic, volcanic, and depositional processes. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: Major divisions of the oceanic relief The ocean floors can be divided into four major divisions: (i) the Continental Shelf — It is the extended margin of each continent occupied by relatively shallow seas and gulfs. — It is the shallowest part of the ocean showing an average gradient of 1° or even less. — The average breadth of continental shelves is around 80 kilometres. Some margins, such as the Chilean coasts and Sumatra's west coast, have essentially no shelves or are extremely thin. On the contrary, the Siberian shelf in the Arctic Ocean, the world's widest, is 1,500 kilometres wide. — The continental shelves are covered with variable thicknesses of sediments brought down by rivers, glaciers, wind, from the land and distributed by waves and currents. (ii) the Continental Slope — The continental slope connects the continental shelf with the ocean basins. It starts at the bottom of the continental shelf and abruptly drops off onto a steep slope. — The grade of the slope region varies from 2 to 5 degrees. — The depth of the slope region ranges from 200 to 3,000 metres. The slope border marks the end of the continents. This region contains canyons and pits. (iii) the Deep Sea Plain — Deep sea plains are gently sloping sections inside ocean basins. These are the flattest and smoothest parts of the planet. — The plains are covered in fine-grained sediments such as clay and silt. (iv) the Oceanic Deeps — These are the deepest parts of the ocean. The trenches are steep-sided, narrow basins. They are about 3-5 km deeper than the surrounding ocean floor. — They occur near the base of continental slopes and along island arcs, and are linked to active volcanoes and powerful earthquakes. Conclusion: — The ocean floor holds vast quantities of metals and rare earths. Many countries and corporations are interested in the commercial potential of deep-sea mining. — The UN's sea convention stipulates that any activities in the high seas must be equitably shared among states, and that would include profits from deep-sea mining. (Source: Are deep-sea metals a vital resource or an environmental disaster in the making?, Points to Ponder Read about deep sea mining Read about places in news in Ocean Related Previous Year Questions What are the forces that influence ocean currents? Describe their role in the fishing industry of the world. (2022) Explain the factors responsible for the origin of ocean currents? 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