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Indian Express
4 days ago
- Business
- Indian Express
Mains answer practice — GS 2: Questions on India-Paraguay relations and the role of Lok Sabha Speaker (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-2 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 possibilities for India-Paraguay relations to strengthen India's engagement with Latin America. Discuss the strategic importance of their partnership in countering terrorism and addressing transnational threats like cybercrime and drug trafficking. Examine the Lok Sabha Speaker's constitutional position, powers, and responsibilities with reference to regulating the Business of the House. 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 possibilities for India-Paraguay relations to strengthen India's engagement with Latin America. Discuss the strategic importance of their partnership in countering terrorism and addressing transnational threats like cybercrime and drug trafficking. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed Paraguay's President Santiago Peña Palacios, stating that the two countries are 'united in the fight against terrorism' and can work together to combat 'shared challenges' like cybercrime, organised crime, and drug trafficking. — President Peña's State Visit to India marks his first visit and only the second by a Paraguayan president. On June 2, 2025, President Peña paid a visit to India and met with the Prime Minister to discuss bilateral relations. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — India and Paraguay established diplomatic relations on September 13, 1961, fostering warm and friendly connections between the two countries. Both countries have since collaborated in a variety of fields, including trade, agriculture, health, medicines, and information technology. — Paraguay is a significant trade partner for India in the Latin American region. Several Indian companies in the automotive and pharmaceutical sectors have a presence in Paraguay, while certain Paraguayan companies, primarily through joint venture corporations, have a presence in India, contributing to the two countries' economic links. — The two countries have similar views on a variety of international topics, including UN reforms, climate change, renewable energy, and terrorist prevention. — India and Paraguay are unified in their fight against terrorism. There is enormous potential for collaboration in combating common threats such as cybercrime, organised crime, and drug trafficking. Conclusion: — There are new prospects for collaboration in fields such as digital technology, essential minerals, energy, agriculture, healthcare, defence, railways, space, and global economic partnership. — The Prime Minister also mentioned New Delhi's advantageous trade relationship with the South American trading bloc MERCOSUR, which includes Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. (Source: India, Paraguay vow to boost ties; united against terror: PM) Points to Ponder Read more about MERCOSUR Read more about India and South American countries relationship Related Previous Year Questions 'India is an age-old friend of Sri Lanka.' Discuss India's role in the recent crisis in Sri Lanka in the light of the preceding statement. (2022) Terrorism has become a significant threat to global peace and security.' Evaluate the effectiveness of the United Nations Security Council's Counter-Terrorism Committee (CTC) and its associated bodies in addressing and mitigating this threat at the international level. (2024) QUESTION 2: Examine the Lok Sabha Speaker's constitutional position, powers, and responsibilities with reference to regulating the Business of the House. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — The Speaker's Office plays an important role in our parliamentary democracy. — The Speaker's Office has been described as representing the complete authority of the House, whilst members of Parliament represent individual constituencies. — He/she represents the dignity and power of the House over which he/she presides. — The Speaker serves from the date of his/her election until the first sitting of the Lok Sabha following the dissolution of the one to which he/she was elected. He or she is eligible for re-election. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — The Speaker's Chair is prominently positioned in the Lok Sabha Chamber, providing him or her with a commanding view of the whole House. — He/she also benefits from the directions issued by his/her predecessors, which are collated on a regular basis. In addition, the Secretary-General of the Lok Sabha and senior Secretariat staff assist him/her with parliamentary duties, as well as practice and procedure. — In the absence of the Speaker, the Deputy Speaker performs his or her duties. When the Speaker and Deputy Speaker are not present, a member of the Panel of Chairmen preside over the House. Regulating the Business of the House — The Presiding Officer decides if a Question is admissible; he or she also decides what forms amendments to the Motion of Thanks to the President's Address can be moved in. — If a bill is pending in the House, the Speaker determines whether or not to allow modifications to specific parts of the bill. — Under Article 110(3), only the Speaker has the authority to certify that a bill is a money bill. The advantage of this procedure is obvious: the money bill cannot be enacted or rejected by the Rajya Sabha. It can simply make a suggestion that may or may not be adopted by the Lok Sabha, which alone has a final say in the matter. — He/she regulates all topics not specifically covered by the rules, as well as all concerns about how the rules work. — The Speaker also serves on the tribunal that determines cases of MP defection, which can be extremely beneficial to the parties in power. Conclusion: — The Speaker is the head of the Lok Sabha Secretariat, which is completely under his or her supervision and guidance. The Speaker has supreme responsibility over the House's Secretariat staff, precincts, and security measures. (Source: The importance of Om Birla: Why the office of the Speaker matters by P D T Achary, Points to Ponder Read more about functions of speaker of the Lok Sabha Read about history of speaker of Lok Sabha Role of deputy speaker in the Lok Sabha Related Previous Year Questions Discuss the role of Presiding Officers of state legislatures in maintaining order and impartiality in conducting legislative work and in facilitating best democratic practices. (2023) Discuss the role of the Vice-President of India as the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. (2022) 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 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
28-05-2025
- Politics
- Indian Express
Mains answer practice — GS 2: Questions on caste census in India and Arctic geopolitics (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-2 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 decision to conduct a caste census in India has reignited debates on the efficacy and scope of affirmative action policies. Critically examine how a caste census can serve as a tool to assess and reinforce affirmative action in India. Assess the effect of the United States' increasing interest in Greenland on Arctic geopolitics. How do territorial ambitions affect the Arctic region's stability and governance? 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 decision to conduct a caste census in India has reignited debates on the efficacy and scope of affirmative action policies. Critically examine how a caste census can serve as a tool to assess and reinforce affirmative action in India. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — The decision by the Centre to include caste in the forthcoming census will have a huge impact on the restructuring of India's reservation system. Reservation disrupts occupational homogeneity. — Part III (Articles 15 and 16) and Part IV (Directive Principles of State Policy) of the Constitution provide opportunities to implement affirmative action. — Caste-based hierarchies and discrimination are common in government and private sector jobs and educational institutions. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: Background — While the Constitution provided for reservations for Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST), the identification of backward classes occurred after the Constituent Assembly. Responding to requests for quota for Other Backward Classes (OBCs), the Congress administration established the First Backward Classes Commission in 1953, chaired by Kaka Kalelkar, to identify 'socially and educationally backward' communities. — The Janata Dal government established the Second Backward Classes Commission, sometimes known as the Mandal Commission, in 1979. It was chaired by B P Mandal. The commission conducted a rigorous survey using social, educational, and economic indices and designated 3,743 castes as backward, recommending reservation in educational institutions and government sector employment. — In Indra Sawhney vs Union of India (1992), the Supreme Court of India affirmed 27% reservation for OBCs but denied 10% reservation for EWS, stating that economic status cannot be the primary factor for reservation in the absence of proof of structural discrimination. — The EWS reservation was established under the 103rd Constitutional Amendment. The Supreme Court also understood the word 'Class' in article 16(4) as 'Social Class,' rather than the economic status-based 'Marxist Class.' Caste census and reservation — The All India Survey on Higher Education (2021-22) study describes how different social classes are represented in India's government and private educational institutions. For example, in public colleges, just about 10.8 percent of instructors come from the SC group, while STs account for only 3.4% and OBCs for 21%. However, the general category accounts for around 49.3% of teachers in public institutions and 60.7% in private universities. In Union and state public institutions, as well as affiliated and constituent colleges, SC instructors account for 9.6%, STs for 2.6%, and OBCs for 34%. — Caste-based concepts are so established that it is extremely difficult for marginalised communities to find work, even if they are highly qualified. Conclusion: — These examples demonstrate that we must impose reserves even in the private sector to combat such limits. A caste-based census provides an opportunity to strengthen the quota system and create a more inclusive society. However, it can also strengthen numerically dominant populations politically, thereby affecting the rights and prospects of numerically non-dominant communities. (Source: Caste census gives us an opportunity to examine and reinforce affirmative action) Points to Ponder Read more details about caste census Read about previous censuses Related Previous Year Questions Discuss the contribution of civil society groups for women's effective and meaningful participation and representation in state legislatures in India. (2023) Whether National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) can enforce the implementation of constitutional reservation for the Scheduled Castes in the religious minority institutions? Examine. (2018) QUESTION 2: Assess the effect of the United States' increasing interest in Greenland on Arctic geopolitics. How do territorial ambitions affect the Arctic region's stability and governance? Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — The Arctic Council is the premier international platform for advancing regional cooperation and governance in the Arctic area. — The forum has eight permanent members: Canada, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Russia, Sweden, the United States, and Denmark (which includes Greenland and the Faroe Islands). — The 14th meeting of the Arctic Council marked the end of Norway's period as chair. Following a challenging period in keeping the Arctic Council running, Norway has given the baton to Denmark as the Council's next head. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — The addition of Finland and Sweden to NATO since the start of the war has worsened tensions within the organisation. Currently, the Arctic Council includes seven NATO member states and Russia. Given Russian concerns about NATO, any chance of the group making any progress is increasingly unlikely. — US President Donald Trump's claim to rule the region of Greenland has muddled matters even more. Since taking office in January 2025, Trump has maintained that American control over Greenland's territory is critical to Washington's national and international security. — Given Russia's desire to find new ways to strengthen collaboration in the Arctic, China has emerged as an important partner. Chinese interests in the Arctic have also increased. In 2014, President Xi Jinping announced China's goal to become a 'Polar Power'. Since then, China has referred to itself as a 'near-Arctic state,' indicating a desire for increased involvement in Arctic matters. — China has no shoreline exposure to the Arctic, and it makes no claim to sovereignty in the region. As a result, Russia-China naval cooperation in the Arctic has added a new strategic dimension to the region's developing geopolitical landscape. — The Arctic Council is dealing with significant issues. Arctic exceptionalism is dying. With competing interests in the region and a lack of efficient governance systems, the Arctic risks quickly becoming a geopolitical flashpoint. Notably, these discoveries will have significant worldwide implications. Conclusion: — Rising sea levels are a problem due to growing climate worries in the Arctic, which is causing ice to melt. The melting of Arctic ice has also created new opportunities for extending trade routes. — The anticipated influx of new stakeholders into the Arctic necessitates a broader redesign of the Arctic governance architecture. The Arctic Council will have to skilfully balance these critical issues. (Source: The Russia-China push in the arctic – a new strategic flashpoint) Points to Ponder Read more about Arctic Council Read about Russia-China cooperation in Arctic region Related Previous Year Questions 'The West is fostering India as an alternative to reduce dependence on China's supply chain and strategically to counter China's political and economic dominance.' Explain this statement with examples. (2024) 'The USA is facing an existential threat in the form of China, that is much more challenging than the erstwhile Soviet Union.' Explain. (2021) 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 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 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
21-05-2025
- Politics
- Indian Express
Mains answer practice — GS 2: Questions on Jal Jeevan Mission and India-UK Free Trade Agreement (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-2 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 Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) aims to provide Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTC) to every rural household in India. Despite significant progress in infrastructure, disparities in actual water usage persist. Critically examine. The India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is projected to yield multiple economic benefits for India, including enhanced bilateral trade, integration into global supply chains, and increased foreign investments. Discuss. 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 Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) aims to provide Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTC) to every rural household in India. Despite significant progress in infrastructure, disparities in actual water usage persist. Critically examine. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), the central government's flagship project, is currently suffering serious structural and functional issues. The JJM was established in 2019 with the goal of providing 100 percent functional household tap connections (FHTC) by 2024. — According to the most recent NSSO data, the government has made great headway, with nearly 90% of rural families having access to a tap connection. The government plans to cover the remaining homes by 2028. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — There is a significant difference in tap water access and consumption, with only 39% of rural households using taps as their major source (NSS 79th Round, 2022-23). Furthermore, how tap water is used varies greatly by region. Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Bihar, West Bengal, and Odisha have very low tap usage rates ranging from 6% to 30%. The disparity between tap water access and use suggests that the JJM has significant functioning issues. — Reports reveal a reduction in financial assistance by the central government, bureaucratic irregularities at the state level, and scams in constructing JJM's infrastructure, which has slowed down JJM's progress. Increasing financial burdens, coupled with incomplete infrastructure and a lack of transparency in the provision of the tender, leave JJM with an uncertain future. — Structural issues necessitate consideration from both central, state, and local governments. It is critical to understand how tap water infrastructures are maintained and managed in everyday life, as well as what factors aid in closing the gap between tap access and use. — As a result of worldwide debates and constitutional reforms, some countries have attempted to establish a decentralised and community-driven drinking water system. However, we have yet to establish a decentralised method. Local institutions and players responsible for tap water supply have limited financial and technical autonomy. It is critical to address the social and spatial problems that these institutions encounter when placing taps, as well as whether they are technically capable of managing water quality and quantity and supplying it on time. — There is an urgent need to strengthen grievance resolution channels and methods. Another major problem is that administrative-level data does not accurately reflect reality on the ground. The JJM display reveals that many villages and areas have 100% tap water availability. However, it used outdated census data to determine tap water access. — The JJM also involves material considerations for water, infrastructure, and families. The concern over unpredictable climate, untimely precipitation, and surface and groundwater depletion has had an impact on water quality, quantity, and a timely and appropriate drinking water supply. — Leakage, breakage, disruption, breakdown, and suspension are all valid concerns, alongside others. An efficient tap water supply necessitates ongoing repair and maintenance efforts. Conclusion: — The position of the water tank, as well as the distance between residences and the tank, are critical to receiving enough pressure. Furthermore, involving different caste groups in local-level institutions (for example, as plumbers, pump operators, and engineers) is critical for an efficient tap water supply as well as repair and maintenance operations. — With an expanding population and insufficient secure infrastructure, rural communities are once again trapped in water source precarity, dependence, and economic hardship. The Jal Jeevan Mission's future must include these components in order to have an efficient supply chain. (Source: Many challenges of Jal Jeevan Mission: Decentralisation is the only way ahead) Points to Ponder Read more about JJM Read about other schemes under Ministry of Jal Shakti Related Previous Year Questions In a crucial domain like the public healthcare system, the Indian State should play a vital role in containing the adverse impact of the marketisation of the system. Suggest measures through which the State can enhance the reach of public healthcare at the grassroots level. (2024) 'To ensure effective implementation of policies addressing water, sanitation and hygiene needs, the identification of beneficiary segments is to be synchronized with the anticipated outcomes'. Examine the statement in the context of the WASH scheme. (2017) QUESTION 2: The India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is projected to yield multiple economic benefits for India, including enhanced bilateral trade, integration into global supply chains, and increased foreign investments. Discuss. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — In a world economy plagued by trade disputes and fears about decreasing trade growth, the conclusion of India-UK free trade agreement (FTA) talks is a significant milestone. — After 15 rounds of rigorous negotiations since January 2022, a historic free trade deal was struck in principle on May 6. However, installation will require some time. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — The FTA appears to abolish tariffs on roughly 99 percent of Indian exports to the UK, creating considerable commercial prospects. — The pact might also result in significant benefits in services, with the UK promising ambitious market access promises and easier transfer of Indian specialists to the UK. — Parallel negotiations on a bilateral investment treaty (BIT) to protect investments between the two countries may be more difficult to conclude. Disagreements regarding dispute resolution processes and investor protections may impede development on the BIT. — FTAs are well suited to India's fast growing economy, which is rising at more than 6% per year in a global economy growing at half that rate. For Britain, signing trade agreements with the United States and India at the same time signals a re-engagement with the two largest democracies and their markets following Brexit. — Geopolitical signalling is important in this transaction. The free trade agreement between the world's fourth and sixth largest economies comes at a time when the Trump administration's reciprocal tariff policies are generating economic uncertainty. This has rekindled previously dormant negotiations about concluding FTAs between like-minded countries. — An India-EU free trade agreement, in conjunction with an India-UK free trade agreement, has the potential to alter global trade rules and even resuscitate the World Trade Organisation. Potential economic benefits for India — Lowering trade and regulatory barriers through the FTA will stimulate specialisation and commerce based on comparative advantage between India and the United Kingdom. — India is a minor contributor in global supply chains, accounting for approximately 1.5 percent of goods exports in 2023. The India-UK Free Trade Agreement provides incentives for multinational corporations such as Apple to invest in export-oriented Indian manufacturing capacity, as well as the possibility of India potentially supplying the UK market. — As tariffs are reduced under the bilateral FTA, consumers will benefit from more access to high-quality products and lower pricing. — The FTA is a step towards India's inclusion in the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). The CPTPP, a high-standard, massive FTA that lowers trade barriers for its members but which India declined to join, accounts for a significant portion of global commerce. Conclusion: — The India–UK FTAs are an enabling condition for India's growth and influence in the global economy. Countries that use FTAs as a springboard to implement broad economic reforms and address supply-side issues will reap the most geopolitical and economic benefits. (Source: Four ways in which India gains from an FTA with the UK) Points to Ponder Read about India and UK trade relations Read about FTA Related Previous Year Questions What are the key areas of reform if the WTO has to survive in the present context of 'Trade War', especially keeping in mind the interest of India? (2018) Discuss the geopolitical and geostrategic importance of the Maldives for India with a focus on global trade and energy flows. Further, discuss how this relationship affects India's maritime security and regional stability amidst international competition. (2024) 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 101) 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
14-05-2025
- Politics
- Indian Express
Mains answer practice — GS 2: Questions on regulation of content on OTT platforms and ceasefire (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-2 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 The Supreme Court recently expressed worry about the regulation of content on OTT platforms, calling for legislative action to address obscene and immoral material. Discuss the issues of regulating OTT material in India, taking into account regulatory organisations' overlapping authorities and the need to balance free expression with societal sensitivities. With reference to the India-Pakistan ceasefire, discuss the meaning of a ceasefire and what international law says about a 'breach' of ceasefire. 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 Supreme Court recently expressed worry about the regulation of content on OTT platforms, calling for legislative action to address obscene and immoral material. Discuss the issues of regulating OTT material in India, taking into account regulatory organisations' overlapping authorities and the need to balance free expression with societal sensitivities. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — The Supreme Court, while expressing concern about the regulation of content on Over the Top (OTT) platforms and social media, encouraged the government to do 'something legislative' about the obscene and indecent quality of content transmitted through such platforms. — The Supreme Court's comments come in the aftermath of the recent 'India's Got Latent' incident, which generated discussion about the need to further connect OTT programming with laws and ethical requirements. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — Most definitions of OTT refer to it as a media service that is offered over existing communication infrastructure, such as the internet, at the request of individual users. Because of the hybrid nature of OTT streaming, efforts to regulate the field have led in a turf war among the holy trifecta: the Ministry of Information Technology (MeiTY), the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB), and the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). — With the development of OTT content consumption after 2020, MeiTY issued the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, to govern intermediaries, OTT platforms, and digital news media organisations. — The 2021 Rules established a Code of Ethics (Code) for such businesses, requiring them to meet particular due diligence duties, such as creating a three-tier regulatory structure. According to the Code, the first layer is self-regulation by the intermediary/publisher; the second tier is regulation by a self-regulating body of publishers; and the third tier is regulation by an interdepartmental committee to exercise oversight, hear and investigate concerns. — Despite efforts to police offensive content on OTT platforms, the Code has been viewed as a set of guidelines with no consequences for noncompliance. — The Code failed to account for the level of autonomy that OTT content providers had over their platform and content. This autonomy applies to both infrastructure and finance. — To develop a comprehensive legal framework for all broadcast content, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting wanted to include OTT platforms and digital news channels in its Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill, 2023. — Broadcasting requires control of both the end-to-end infrastructure and the content broadcast on it, whereas OTT streaming does not focus on the infrastructure (internet) over which it is distributed. — Support for structured regulation of OTT platforms and content has grown, not just through judicial backing, but also through internationally accepted methods. Because of the nature of these platforms, there is a risk of spreading harmful content to the public. Conclusion: — The concepts of 'morality' and 'obscenity' are always developing. They vary depending on location, time, and the recipient's sensibility. The voices of people from marginalised communities or vulnerable groups should be acknowledged to ensure that critical depictions of societal practices or atrocities are not muted by excessive content regulation. Content-based guidelines must include a review clause that ensures that content control is reassessed on a regular and intentional basis in order to remain relevant to social reality. — There is unquestionably a need to establish soft-touch regulatory frameworks to oversee the information delivered on OTT platforms. While extending censorship and film certification standards to OTT content may be impractical, age-based classification should be strictly enforced. (Source: The 'who' and the 'how' of OTT content regulation) Points to Ponder Read more about regulations on OTT Related Previous Year Questions Examine the scope of Fundamental Rights in the light of the latest judgement of the Supreme Court on Right to Privacy. (2017) QUESTION 2: With reference to the India-Pakistan ceasefire, discuss the meaning of a ceasefire and what international law says about a 'breach' of ceasefire. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — According to Françoise Bouchet-Saulnier's book The Practical Guide to Humanitarian Law, a ceasefire is an agreement between nations participating in a conflict that seeks to control the cessation of all military activity 'for a given length of time in a given area'. — A cease-fire does not mean an end to hostilities. It denotes a ceasefire, or 'a temporary suspension of hostilities,' in both international and non-international armed confrontations. They also 'do not reflect a juridical end to the state of war,' according to the paper. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — While there is no official definition of a ceasefire, Sydney D Bailey, an author and international affairs expert, as quoted in an Oxford encyclopaedia entry, defines it as 'suspension of acts of violence by military and paramilitary forces, usually resulting from the intervention of a third party.' Ceasefires can be formal or informal. — Before the United Nations Charter was adopted in 1945, the phrases 'truce,' 'armistice,' and 'peace treaties' were used differently. However, the UN's flexible use of the phrase 'ceasefire', along with the collapse of pre-Charter conceptions, led to the usage of these terms interchangeably, according to the article in Oxford Public International Law. — Ceasefire agreements, both in cases of international and non-international armed confrontations, include: timing of initiation, Identification and Definition of Prohibited Acts Physical separation of armed troops, including the establishment of ceasefire lines and/or buffer zones, Verification, supervision, and monitoring. Besides these significant phrases, it also contains 'repatriation of prisoners of war; return of missing — internally displaced persons and refugees; restitution and compensation of claims;' among other measures. — A ceasefire, or a break of a ceasefire, has no legal implications because the agreements are viewed as a first step towards peace. During times of conflict, humanitarian law is primarily concerned with regulating the 'use of violence and the protection of civilians.' — The remedies for a ceasefire violation are defined in the Regulations Respecting the Law and Customs of War on Land, generally known as the Hague Regulations, which were adopted in 1910. — According to the encyclopaedia entry for the Oxford Public International Law, Article 36 of the Hague Regulations states that if an armistice or ceasefire does not specify its duration, 'the belligerent parties may resume operations at any time, provided that the enemy is warned within the time agreed upon.' Conclusion: — A major infringement of a ceasefire by one of the parties concerned allows the other the authority to condemn it and, in urgent instances, to resume hostilities immediately, according to the entry, which cited Article 40 of the Regulations. — A violation of the ceasefire terms by 'private persons acting on their own initiative' allows the 'injured party to demand the punishment of the offenders or, if necessary, compensation for the losses sustained,' according to Article 41. (Source: India-Pakistan ceasefire declaration: What exactly is a 'ceasefire') Points to Ponder Read more about ceasefire Read more about Hague Regulations Related Previous Year Questions India has a long and troubled border with China and Pakistan fraught with contentious issues. Examine the conflicting issues and security challenges along the border. Also give out the development Programme (BADP) and Border Infrastructure and Management (BM) Scheme. (2024) 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 100) 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
07-05-2025
- Politics
- Indian Express
Mains answer practice — GS 2: Questions on interstate river water disputes and Finance Commission (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-2 to check your progress. The ongoing disagreements over the allocation of Ravi-Beas waters between Punjab and Haryana underscore the challenges of interstate water sharing in India. Examine the constitutional and legal structures governing interstate river water disputes in India. 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. will provide some guiding points or ideas as a thought process that will help you to evaluate your answers. N ote: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — Article 262(1) of the Constitution states that 'Parliament may by law provide for the adjudication of any dispute or complaint with respect to the use, distribution, or control of the waters of, or in, any inter-State river, or river valley'. — Parliament passed the Inter-State River Water Disputes Act of 1956. It allows for the referral of such a disagreement to Tribunals upon receipt of an application from a State if the Union Government is persuaded that the dispute 'cannot be settled by negotiations'. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — The Bhakra-Nangal project is one of the first post-independence river valley improvement projects. It consists of two different but complementary dams on the Satluj River: the Bhakra dam in Himachal Pradesh and the Nangal dam, located about 10 kilometres downstream in Punjab. — Before the state was divided into Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh, the Punjab government had direct responsibility over the Bhakra-Nangal project. The Bhakra Management Board was formed in 1966 under Section 79 of the Punjab Reorganisation Act to manage the project in the best interests of the three states. — The BBMP now plays a key role in water distribution between Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, and Delhi. At the start of each accounting year (approximately September-August, depending on the monsoon), the BBMP determines how much water each state will receive. Constitutional provisions governing interstate river water disputes in India — The Constitution contains specific provisions regarding resolution of water disputes. Under Article 262(1), 'Parliament may by law provide for the adjudication of any dispute or complaint with respect to the use, distribution or control of the waters of, or in, any inter-State river or river valley'. — Under Article 262 (2): 'Notwithstanding anything in the Constitution, Parliament may by law provide that neither the Supreme Court nor any other court shall exercise jurisdiction in respect of any such dispute or complaint as is referred to in clause (1)' . — The Constitution does not establish a mechanism for resolving water-related conflicts. It leaves it to Parliament, by legislation, to create such arrangements as it sees suitable for the resolution of such disputes and complaints. — The Constitution also permits Parliament to decide and legislate whether court jurisdiction should be barred. — The River Boards Act, 1956, was established by Parliament under Entry 56 of List I to promote the integrated and optimal development of interstate rivers and river valleys. — Punjab says that Haryana has already withdrawn 3.110 MAF, or 104% of its share for the entire year. This is despite the fact that the water levels on the Ranjit Sagar (on River Ravi) and Pong dams are 16.9 and 31.87 feet lower than the same time last year, owing mostly to the Himalayas' lack of snow this winter. The water level at Bhakra Dam is also 12 feet lower than previous year. — The latest stand-off began on April 23, when Haryana sought 8,500 cusecs of water from the Bhakra-Nangal project — 4,500 cusecs more than what it is currently receiving. Punjab CM Mann refused, putting the ball in the court of the BBMP. (Source: Water sharing dispute between Punjab and Haryana: what happened, why) Points to Ponder Read about other water dispute Read about interlinking of rivers Read about important dams across rivers in India Related Previous Year Questions What changes has the Union Government recently introduced in the domain of Centre-State relations? Suggest measures to be adopted to build the trust between the Centre and the States and for strengthening federalism. (2024) 'While the national political parties in India favour centralisation, the regional parties are in favour of State autonomy.' Comment. (2020) N ote: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — The Finance Commission is a constitutional body formed by the President of India to give suggestions on centre-state financial relations. — As per Article 280 of the Constitution of India, the President shall, within two years from the commencement of this Constitution and thereafter at the expiration of every fifth year or at such earlier time as the President considers necessary, by order constitute a Finance Commission which shall consist of a Chairman and four other members to be appointed by the President. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — It shall be the duty of the Commission to submit recommendations to the President regarding — (i) the distribution between the Union and the States of the net proceeds of taxes that are to be, or may be, divided between them under this Chapter, as well as the allocation between the States of their respective portions of such proceeds; (ii) the principles that should govern the grants-in-aid of state resources from the Consolidated Fund of India; (a) the actions needed to enhance the Consolidated Fund of a State to complement the resources of the Panchayats in the State, based on the recommendations provided by the State's Finance Commission; (b) the actions needed to augment the Consolidated Fund of a State to complement the resources of the Municipalities in the State, based on the recommendations given by the State's Finance Commission; (c) any other matter brought to the Commission by the President for the purposes of sound finance. — The Commission shall establish their procedure and shall have such powers in carrying out their tasks as Parliament may by legislation confer on them. Conclusion: — Several states have suggested to the 16th Finance Commission (FC) that their part of the divisible tax pool be increased. Some have even proposed increasing the states' contribution to 50%, up from the existing 41%. — States have the right to feel resentment. After all, even when the 14th FC increased their portion of the tax pool to 42% and the 15th FC maintained it at 41% (down 1% with J&K becoming a Union territory), the central government cut the divisible tax pool itself. It accomplished this by imposing cesses and fees, the proceeds from which are not shared with the states. According to the RBI, by 2021-22, the divisible tax pool will have decreased to 78.9 percent of the Centre's gross tax collections, down from 88.6 percent in 2011-12. Over the last six years, states have received an average of 32% of gross tax income. How have the recommendations of the 14th Finance Commission of India enabled the States to improve their fiscal position? (2021) 'The states in India seem reluctant to empower urban local bodies both functionally as well as financially.'' Comment. (2023)
