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Indian Express
3 days ago
- Politics
- Indian Express
Mains answer practice — GS 3 : Questions on setting up tiger safaris and Left Wing Extremism (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-3 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 Discuss how the 'National Policy and Action Plan to Address Left Wing Extremism' (2015) has reduced LWE-related violence in India. How has it contributed to the reduction in incidents? Critically examine the potential benefits and challenges of setting up tiger safaris in buffer zones of tiger reserves. Suggest measures to ensure that setting up tiger safaris balances wildlife conservation objectives with sustainable tourism and community welfare. 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: Discuss how the 'National Policy and Action Plan to Address Left Wing Extremism' (2015) has reduced LWE-related violence in India. How has it contributed to the reduction in incidents? Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — The Centre said incidents of violence by Left Wing Extremism (LWE) have reduced to 374 in 2024 from its highest level of 1936 in 2010. While the incidents of violence by LWE saw a reduction of 81 per cent, 'the total number of deaths, including civilians and security forces, has also reduced by 85 per cent — from 1005 deaths in 2010 to 150 in 2024.' — Along with zero tolerance towards violence, the country also focused on a massive push toward infrastructure and social empowerment to bring a positive change in the lives of the poor people in these regions. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — To address the LWE problem holistically, a 'National Policy and Action Plan to address LWE' was approved in 2015. It envisages a multi-pronged strategy involving security related measures, development interventions, ensuring rights and entitlements of local communities etc. — While on security front, the GoI assists the LWE affected State Government by providing Central Armed Police Forces battalions, training, funds for modernization of State police forces, equipment & arms, sharing of intelligence, construction of Fortified Police Stations etc; on development side, apart from flagship schemes, Government of India (GoI) has taken several specific initiatives in LWE affected States, with special thrust on expansion of road network, improving telecommunication connectivity, skilling and financial inclusion. — Since 2015, the Union Home Ministry has been working on a 'National Policy and Action Plan' to address the threat of left-wing extremism. The policy promotes zero tolerance for violence. — The Central Government aids states in modernising and training their police personnel. This includes cash for unique infrastructure, planning, and security-related costs. Similarly, the Centre has begun numerous development projects, including the approval of 17,600-kilometer roads in areas prone to Left-Wing extremism. — In addition, the states are furnished with helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for regular monitoring. CAPF battalions are also deployed at the request of states to strengthen their security networks and capacities. Conclusion: — In recent years, India's multimodal counter-LWE approach, which combines security enforcement, inclusive development, and community participation, has been a huge success. — The Indian government is committed to completely eliminating Naxalism by March 31, 2026, because Naxalism is viewed as the most significant impediment to the development of remote areas and tribal villages, preventing education, healthcare, connectivity, banking, and postal services from reaching these communities. (Source: Incidents of LWE-led violence down from 1,936 to 374 in 15 years: Centre, Points to Ponder Read more about Naxalism – its history, background Read about the regions which are engulfed in Naxalism Related Previous Year Questions Explain how narco-terrorism has emerged as a serious threat across the country. Suggest suitable measures to counter narco-terrorism. (2024) Naxalism is a social, economic and developmental issue manifesting as a violent internal security threat. In this context, discuss the emerging issues and suggest a multilayered strategy to tackle the menace of Naxalism. (2022) QUESTION 2: Critically examine the potential benefits and challenges of setting up tiger safaris in buffer zones of tiger reserves. Suggest measures to ensure that setting up tiger safaris balances wildlife conservation objectives with sustainable tourism and community welfare. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — Tiger safari is not defined in the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972, which states that 'no construction of commercial tourist lodges, hotels, zoos, and safari parks shall be undertaken inside a sanctuary except with the prior approval of the National Board' [for Wildlife] established under the Act. — The concept was first envisioned in the National Tiger Conservation Authority's (NTCA) Guidelines for Tourism, which provided for such establishments in buffer areas of tiger reserves 'which experience immense tourist influx in the core/critical tiger habitat for viewing tigers' in 2012. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — The concept was to create an enclosure within tiger reserves where animal sightings are not left to chance, as opposed to traditional wild safaris, such as those conducted in Jim Corbett National Park. This would be accomplished by putting the animals in vast naturalistic enclosures within a tiger reserve. — In 2016, the NTCA released instructions for constructing tiger safaris in the buffer and periphery areas of tiger reserves for rescued, conflict-prone, or orphaned tigers, with the explicit condition that no zoo-bred animals be brought. — Three years later, the NTCA adopted an amendment allowing tigers from zoos to be housed in safari parks. The Central Zoo ability (CZA) was given the ability to identify and authorise such zoo species, as well as oversee animal welfare, enclosure design, and zoo standard compliance in safari projects. — In March 2024, the Supreme Court ordered that tiger safaris be constructed beyond the core and buffer areas of tiger reserves. It stated that such activities should not disrupt natural habitats or jeopardise conservation efforts. Potential benefits — The Jharkhand government intends to establish the safari in the outskirts of the Barwadih Western Forest Range. The facility will not showcase any wild creatures; instead, it will contain conflict, injured, or orphaned animals rescued from India's tiger reserves and zoos. — The safari will not only boost tourism but also provide direct jobs for at least 200 locals in the tourism industry. People would be needed for the positions of guides, support workers, and maintenance crew. Challenges — It tends to ignore the presence and contributions of forest-dwelling populations, characterising them as threats rather than guardians of biodiversity. As a result, such projects frequently cause the displacement of local native communities. — Relocation or Displacement — Tiger safaris also threaten to undermine local businesses. (Source: Jharkhand to set up its first tiger safari: The plan and concerns around it) Points to Ponder Read about latest notified tiger safaris and their location Read about Project Tiger Related Previous Year Question What role do environmental NGOs and activists play in influencing Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) outcomes for major projects in India? Cite four examples with all important details. (2024) 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 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
27-05-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
Mains answer practice — GS 3 : Questions on economic effect of hosting Olympics and global pandemic treaty (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-3 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 World Health Organisation's approval of the global pandemic treaty is an important step towards worldwide health cooperation. Discuss the essential provisions of this treaty and critically evaluate the obstacles connected with its implementation. India's bid to host the 2036 Olympic Games is frequently defended in terms of economic development, tourism, and public health initiatives. Drawing on worldwide experience, critically assess the long-term socioeconomic and health consequences of hosting major athletic events. 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 World Health Organisation's approval of the global pandemic treaty is an important step towards worldwide health cooperation. Discuss the essential provisions of this treaty and critically evaluate the obstacles connected with its implementation. Introduction: — Following more than three years of rigorous talks, member nations of the World Health Organisation (WHO) agreed a legally binding convention to better address future pandemics. — The pandemic treaty, which was adopted without the United States, is only the second legally binding agreement in the WHO's 75-year existence, following the 2003 tobacco control treaty. Body: — Negotiations for a global pandemic treaty began in December 2021, just as the Omicron strain of SARS-CoV-2 was spreading over the world, causing a significant new surge in COVID-19. — According to a Nature report, one of the agreement's key components is a 'pathogen access and benefit sharing' system, which allows pharmaceutical companies access to scientific data such as pathogen samples and genomic sequences in exchange for more equitable sharing of drugs, vaccines, and diagnostics during a pandemic. — According to the treaty, member firms must give 10% of their vaccine, therapeutic, and diagnostic production to the WHO. Another 10% will be provided at 'affordable prices'. — The agreement also specifies that member states should 'promote and otherwise facilitate or incentivise' the exchange of technology and know-how to assist developing-country manufacturers in producing their own pharmaceuticals and vaccines. — Countries must also adopt national laws to impose constraints on medicine and vaccine research that they fund, either through universities or private enterprises, in order to ensure 'timely and equitable access' to the ensuing drugs or diagnostics during pandemics. Conclusion: — Although the deal has been lauded as innovative and historic, numerous analysts have argued that its scope is limited. For example, the agreement does not grant the WHO authority over specific governments. — The pact also states that the WHO does not have the authority to dictate or enforce any obligations, such as 'ban or accept travellers, impose vaccination mandates, therapeutic or diagnostic measures, or implement lockdown.' — In an effort to avoid the loss of human life and disruption to households and communities as a whole – as occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic – during future pandemics, WHO member states banded together and began to work out an agreement. It took over three and a half years and thirteen rounds of negotiations to obtain an agreement. (Source: Member states of WHO adopt global pandemic treaty: What does it entail?) Points to Ponder Read more about Pandemic treaty Read about WHO Related Previous Year Questions Introduce the concept of Artificial Intelligence (AI). How does AI help clinical diagnosis? Do you perceive any threat to privacy of the individual in the use of AI in healthcare? (2023) What is the basic principle behind vaccine development? How do vaccines work? What approaches were adopted by the Indian vaccine manufacturers to produce COVID-19 vaccines? (2022) QUESTION 2: India's bid to host the 2036 Olympic Games is frequently defended in terms of economic development, tourism, and public health initiatives. Drawing on worldwide experience, critically assess the long-term socioeconomic and health consequences of hosting major athletic events. Introduction: — India is one of many countries interested in hosting the 2036 Olympics, having sent a Letter of Intent to the International Olympic Committee. — As the country builds a solid case for hosting the Olympics, officials participating in the process have highlighted the possible economic gains, tourism boost, and health awareness as some of the advantages of hosting the Games. Body: — A recent study published in Social Science & Medicine utilised data from over 19,000 London and Paris citizens to assess the Olympics' concrete and intangible impact, with an emphasis on health behaviour, wellbeing, and economic return. — The Paris Olympics were one enormous fortnight-long celebration on the Seine. The London Games were also a cultural highlight, with a joyful spirit sweeping the city. In post-Games surveys, 65 percent of Londoners characterised the summer of 2012 as 'a summer like no other,' with 69 percent believing the Games would inspire more adults to participate in sports. Among children, this figure increased to an astounding 81%. Economic effect of hosting Olympics — The most contentious part of hosting the Olympics is the financial load it lays on taxpayers. Estimates for recent Games range from $8 billion (Sydney 2000) to $52 billion (Beijing 2008). The most recent Paris Olympics cost around $9.5 billion. — There's the case of Athens 2004, which ended up costing more than twice its intended budget, forcing Greece farther into debt. Many Olympic venues became idle 'white elephants,' and while the Games provided brief pride, they also left behind deteriorating infrastructure and a financial burden that contributed to Greece's subsequent economic disaster. — The report also stated that 'the London Games simply did not generate enough healthcare savings to justify the billions spent'. The health argument is that the Games can motivate people to live better lives, while increased infrastructure and connectivity have an indirect impact on a city's healthcare facilities. Conclusion: — The analysis indicated that, while the London Olympics saved approximately £4.2 million in healthcare expenses, this was swamped by the £40 million spent on promoting grassroots physical activity. The outcome was a net loss of more than £35 million. In short, the Games did not provide good value for money in terms of public health outcomes. (Source: As India bids for Olympics, what research has found about health, economic impacts on hosts) Points to Ponder Read about Olympics What are the criteria to host the Olympics? Related Previous Year Questions What are the direct and indirect subsidies provided to farm sector in India? Discuss the issues raised by the World Trade Organization (WTO) in relation to agricultural subsidies. (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
20-05-2025
- Politics
- Indian Express
Mains answer practice — GS 3 : Questions on Periodic Labour Force Survey and impacts of climate change on India's military preparedness (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-3 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 Climate change is increasingly recognised as a national security imperative. Discuss the multifaceted impacts of climate change on India's military preparedness and strategic stability. The recent methodological and frequency updates to the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) aim to provide more timely and representative labour market data. Discuss the significance of these changes for economic policy-making 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. UPSC Essentials will provide some guiding points or ideas as a thought process that will help you to evaluate your answers. QUESTION 1: Climate change is increasingly recognised as a national security imperative. Discuss the multifaceted impacts of climate change on India's military preparedness and strategic stability. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — In February 2025, Goa and Maharashtra saw India's first-ever winter heatwave, making it the hottest February in 125 years. — Geopolitical upheavals in climate policy, characterised by the United States' turn to isolationism and transactionalism, manifested in tariffs and withdrawals from international institutions, as well as diminished clean-energy support from the United Kingdom and the European Union, have generated deep uncertainty and disruption. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — The EU's latest Omnibus plan, meant at streamlining sustainability standards, risks creating regulatory complexity and postponing critical investments, undermining Europe's competitiveness as China and Japan adopt stronger sustainability frameworks. — India risks increased susceptibility as global temperatures rise to 2.4 to 3 degrees Celsius, well above the Paris Agreement's aspirational target of 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. Impacts of climate change on India's military preparedness and strategic stability — Military might is based not just on technology and manpower, but also on consistent environmental conditions. As climate stability deteriorates, India's military readiness is jeopardised on several fronts. — Rising temperatures, for example, could lower the payload capacity of the Indian Air Force's C-17 Globemaster III aircraft by roughly 30%, posing a significant challenge during operational missions. — Addressing these diverse dangers requires a comprehensive and aggressive response. Climate resilience must be included into India's overall security strategy. (i) Climate adaptation planning should become integrated into military operations, similar to the US Department of Defense's Climate Adaptation Plan (2024-2027). Critical infrastructure must undergo rigorous climate-risk assessments, be evaluated on a regular basis, and even be systematically renovated to increase resilience. (ii) Increasing institutional capability is crucial. Establishing specialised units, such as a weather squadron inside military engineering services, might offer the armed forces with actionable climate knowledge. It is equally important to incorporate climate issues into military drills and war games. Conclusion: — India can strengthen international engagement by forcefully pressing for more climate money, technological transfers, and regional disaster preparedness measures. — Climate change is more than just an environmental or economic concern; it is a national security priority. India's military readiness, economic stability, and regional peace all rest on how well it adjusts to a more unpredictable future. Climate resilience must not be India's wasted strategic opportunity of the twenty-first century. (Source: India's military must prepare for climate change) Points to Ponder Impact of climate change Suggest proactive measures to enhance the military's resilience will ensure preparedness in the face of evolving climate challenges. Related Previous Year Questions Discuss global warming and mention its effects on the global climate. Explain the control measures to bring down the level of greenhouse gases which cause global warming, in the light of the Kyoto Protocol, 1997. (2022) 'Climate change' is a global problem. How will India be affected by climate change? How Himalayan and coastal states of India are affected by climate change? (2017) QUESTION 2: The recent methodological and frequency updates to the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) aim to provide more timely and representative labour market data. Discuss the significance of these changes for economic policy-making in India. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — India's Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation has released a new and updated edition of the Periodic employment Force Survey (PLFS), launching timely data on the state of the employment market. — The PLFS was started in 2017 as an annual survey to replace the five-year Employment-Unemployment Surveys. PLFS has previously provided a quarterly report on India's unemployment, but only for urban regions. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — Shifting to a monthly reporting cycle promises to improve policy evaluation. Historically, timely official data was lacking when determining the impact on unemployment, for example, a pandemic-induced lockdown or a disruption such as demonetisation. — The PLFS has undergone changes that go beyond simply increasing its frequency. For one, the sample design has been enhanced and the sample size increased. The sample size for each cycle of surveys will now be 2,72,304 households, a 2.65-fold increase over the number of sample houses covered by the PLFS up to December 2024. — These adjustments to the PLFS technique and frequency are desirable. As India's economy expands and seeks global investors, reliable and accurate data will be essential. — The district has been designated as the key geographical unit in order to assure sample observations from the majority of districts in the PLFS sample, hence improving the estimates' representativeness. Notably, the yearly reporting period has been shifted to the calendar year, beginning in January 2025 rather than July-June. This change would allow for the timely update of India's labour market statistics in the databases maintained by international authorities. Conclusion: — The current data on the Indian labour market leaves much to be desired. For example, according to April data, while the general jobless rate in India is 5.1%, it climbs to 6.5% in urban regions and 8.7% in female urban areas. — The most concerning news is that youth (15-29 years old) unemployment is 13.8% across India, 17.2% in urban regions, and 23.7% among young urban women. (Source: Labour Force Survey has an update. It's a welcome one) Points to Ponder Read more about PLFS Related Previous Year Questions Discuss the merits and demerits of the four 'Labour Codes' in the context of labour market reforms in India. What has been the progress so far in this regard? (2024) Most of the unemployment in India is structural in nature. Examine the methodology adopted to compute unemployment in the country and suggest improvements (2023) 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 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
13-05-2025
- Science
- Indian Express
Mains answer practice — GS 3 : Questions on unsustainable exploitation of Earth's resources and ecosystem for deep tech innovation (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-3 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 'There is no Planet B' is more than a slogan; it is a dire warning about the unsustainable exploitation of Earth's resources. Discuss the implications of this statement in the context of India's environmental challenges and policy responses. India's ambition to become a global technology leader hinges on its ability to develop a robust ecosystem for deep tech innovation. Discuss the challenges and opportunities in building such an ecosystem. 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: 'There is no Planet B' is more than a slogan; it is a dire warning about the unsustainable exploitation of Earth's resources. Discuss the implications of this statement in the context of India's environmental challenges and policy responses. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — Clean air, safe water, nutritious food, and access to natural resources all contribute to a dignified and meaningful life. — Earth Day is observed on April 22 to remind humanity of its obligation to maintain the Earth's resources for future generations. It is a day to consider the planet's health, educate communities on important environmental issues, and advocate for sustainable activities. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — Since its beginning in 1970, Earth Day has shaped global environmental frameworks, facilitated international cooperation, and inspired historic agreements. However, it is frequently reduced to symbolic gestures—a social media post, a tree-planting event, a school skit. It is a powerful reminder to reflect, act, and transition from exploitation to stewardship. — India, one of the world's fastest growing economies, is taking a critical step towards sustainability. At the 2021 COP26 Summit in Glasgow, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the Panchamrit, a five-point agenda that includes achieving net-zero emissions by 2070, meeting 50% of energy requirements from renewable sources by 2030, and lowering the economy's carbon intensity by 45%. These are ambitious targets that represent a clear change from rhetoric to duty. — Solar energy has emerged as one of India's most effective climate solutions. The International Solar Alliance, co-led by France, is transforming global energy diplomacy. Domestically, efforts such as the National Solar Mission and PM-KUSUM are empowering farmers to adopt solar-powered irrigation, while big solar parks in Gujarat and Rajasthan are transforming how India lights its homes and industries. Solar power now accounts for more than 15% of India's renewable energy mix, and it is expanding. — With programs such as FAME, the government is making electric vehicles more inexpensive and accessible. Indian Railways has pledged to reaching net-zero by 2030. Meanwhile, cities are extending their public transit networks and investing in cleaner fuels. — India's biodiversity and animal protection efforts have achieved substantial results. Project Tiger and Project Elephant have resulted in population rises. India now accounts for more than 75% of the world's tiger population. Wetlands are protected by Ramsar designations. The Green India Mission is striving to improve forest cover, both in quantity and ecological quality. — Urban air pollution remains a persistent threat, but initiatives such as the National Clean Air Program (NCAP) are gaining support. Cities will receive cash to monitor air quality, switch to cleaner fuels, and enhance waste management. While the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan began with a focus on sanitation, it has since expanded to include plastic waste separation and composting. Water conservation is also evolving, with major projects such as the Jal Shakti Abhiyan, Atal Bhujal Yojana, and Namami Gange. Conclusion: — India's agricultural industry is likewise adjusting. Organic farming is encouraged through programs like the Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana. Micro-irrigation and climate-resilient farming techniques are gaining popularity. — The implementation is inconsistent between states. Climate finance is not on the scale necessary. Development and conservation are still perceived as competing agendas, particularly in urban planning. Even if there are rules and norms in place, illegal encroachment, deforestation, and pollution continue. — Sustainability is no longer a specialist topic. It is making inroads into mainstream governance, infrastructure development, business strategy, and public consciousness. (Source: This Earth Day, a reminder: There is no Planet B) Points to Ponder How can the resources of Earth be used sustainably? Read more about solar, wind and other renewable energy sources Related Previous Year Questions The adoption of electric vehicles is rapidly growing worldwide. How do electric vehicles contribute to reducing carbon emissions and what are the key benefits they offer compared to traditional combustion engine vehicles? (2023) Each year a large amount of plant material, cellulose, is deposited on the surface of Planet Earth. What are the natural processes this cellulose undergoes before yielding carbon dioxide, water and other end products? (2022) QUESTION 2: India's ambition to become a global technology leader hinges on its ability to develop a robust ecosystem for deep tech innovation. Discuss the challenges and opportunities in building such an ecosystem. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — India is struggling to nurture innovative innovation at home, while Indian talent thrives in high-tech fields abroad. — To become a global leader in a rapidly evolving technological landscape, India must overcome structural hurdles and shift its focus away from incremental, consumption-driven solutions. As the government's focus on Viksit Bharat in 2047 takes momentum, innovation will play a significant role. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — According to the 2024 Global Innovation Index, China ranks 11th, while India is 39th. This highlights the huge gap in innovation ecosystems. — India's startup boom, while spectacular in scope (over 100 unicorns and the world's third-largest startup cluster), has been powered primarily by consumer-facing enterprises rather than deep-tech innovations. Challenges in building such an ecosystem — The ecosystem lacks the robust support needed for high-risk, long-gestation deep-tech ventures. — The funding gap stifles entrepreneurs that seek to solve complex challenges. — India's educational and scientific facilities, as well as its ecosystem, fall behind. The country generates lakhs of engineers each year, but its colleges are rarely ranked among the world's best in original research. — Deep technology necessitates a highly motivated and skilled personnel, as well as cutting-edge laboratories. India cannot compete with the United States or China in this regard. As a result, Indian talent frequently moves to Silicon Valley. — Despite governmental initiatives such as Make in India, most corporations continue to spend little on research and development. — India's venture capital (VC) ecosystem values quick returns above patient capital. In the United States, venture capitalists fund both decades-old companies like SpaceX and quantum startups; in India, the emphasis remains on low-risk, high-reward consumer apps. Opportunities — India has experienced areas of successful startup ventures. Digantara, a space startup, has begun on a very profound adventure. Similarly, Skyroot Aerospace and Agnikul Cosmos are making progress in space. — Paytm and PhonePe, payment solution providers, have helped to usher in the country's digital payment revolution. Cybersecurity firms have also thrived, but the majority of them have been purchased too quickly to establish their own inspiring story – another hurdle. — India's 4,000 deep-tech firms raised $1.6 billion in 2024, a 78% rise year on year. Conclusion: — So far, India's global leadership aspirations in technology have been based on low-end fruit. However, today, technology and innovation are the most visible symbols of global power supremacy. — It will need a tectonic shift, including enormous government investment, education reform, a cultural embracing of risk, and prolonged hand-holding. (Source: India needs an ecosystem that better enables deep-tech innovation) Points to Ponder Read about Make in India Read about private sector enterprises related to space technology Related Previous Year Questions What is the need for expanding the regional air connectivity in India? In this context, discuss the government's UDAN Scheme and its achievements. (2024) Faster economic growth requires increased share of the manufacturing sector in GDP, particularly of MSMEs. Comment on the present policies of the Government in this regard (2023) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 3 (Week 100) 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
06-05-2025
- Automotive
- Indian Express
Mains answer practice — GS 3 : Questions on electric highways and importance of Free Trade Agreements (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-3 to check your progress. Discuss the significance of India's plan to develop electric highways under the National Highways for Electric Vehicles (NHEV) initiative. 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. N ote: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — National Highways for Electric Vehicles (NHEV) is a pilot program undertaken by the Government of India, initially supported by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, to convert highways into E-Highways. — NHEV is created and funded using a Hybrid PPP model known as Annuity Hybrid E-Mobility (AHEM), and it is currently in the process of expanding to 5500 km of e-highways on the Bharatmala and Sagarmala routes from Delhi to Kanyakumari via the Mumbai and Kolkata corridors. — In her February Budget speech, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman advised states to develop a three-year pipeline of PPP infrastructure projects and seek support from the India Infrastructure Project Development Fund (IIPDF). — The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) would provide funding for the projects, as well as land for charging stations. — According to technical experiments undertaken by NHEV, a pilot program under the government's Ease of Doing Business strategy, e-highways will include public charging stations every 50 kilometres. These will aim to achieve at least 30% charging point usage and a three-year breakeven period. What is India's approach to EV infrastructure? — India's approach to developing EV infrastructure has been misguided from the start, with a greater emphasis on installing charging stations in cities—where vehicle movement is less predictable—rather than on highways, where fleet-operated electric buses, cars, and trucks travel in more consistent patterns. — EVs would have been running on roads, instilling confidence in cities. — It has also created charging station designs and predicted future earnings based on specified characteristics, with the goal of bringing EV charging stations up to the same level of investment clarity as petrol pumps. Conclusion: — To fund India's e-highways, NHEV has created a model called Annuity Hybrid E-Mobility (AHEM), which is based on the Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM) used for PPP road projects and guarantees a three-year breakeven period. — Under this arrangement, NHEV constructs charging stations with government assistance, and enterprises that supply chargers and EVs, such as fleet operators, are paid a predetermined sum in the first year to cover capital expenditures. After that, they receive variable fees according to how large their fleets grow and how frequently the chargers are utilised. Points to Ponder Read more about EV infrastructure. How can this project contribute to India's goals of reducing logistics costs, oil imports, and carbon emissions? Related Previous Year Questions Why is Public Private Partnership (PPP) required in infrastructural projects? Examine the role of PPP model in the redevelopment of Railway Stations in India. (2022) 'Investment in infrastructure is essential for more rapid and inclusive economic growth.' Discuss in the light of India's experience. (2020) N ote: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — Free trade agreements (FTAs) with the United States and the European Union, as well as the formation of a favourable environment for foreign joint ventures (JVs), would help integrate India's developing auto component industry into global value chains. — According to a new NITI Aayog report, a combination of fiscal and non-fiscal incentives was proposed. The NITI Aayog anticipates India's auto component exports to quadruple to $60 billion by 2030, with the country's share in global value chains increasing from 3 to 8%. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — The majority of M&As (mergers and acquisitions), whether in automotive or other industries, take place in the United States, the European Union, and a few other nations. That is why free trade agreements with the United States and Europe are so crucial. — India is currently pursuing a bilateral trade agreement with Washington and an FTA with Brussels. The paper stated that 'strategically negotiated' FTAs can promote foreign investment, knowledge transfer, and innovation. — NITI Aayog Member Arvind Virmani emphasised the importance of FTAs in enhancing export competitiveness, saying such agreements might help raise investment flows into India and promote the formation of international joint ventures. — To help international joint ventures prosper in India, it advocated for a business-friendly environment bolstered by tax exemptions, subsidies, and investment promotion programs. — By collaborating with international firms like Germany, Japan, and the United States, Indian manufacturers can obtain access to cutting-edge technology, experience, and resources, bridging the gap in specialised manufacturing capabilities. — The research advocated a new approach for transforming brownfield auto clusters into global manufacturing hubs. There is also a requirement to conduct a complete audit of current auto clusters to assess utilisation, implementation issues, and facility conditions. Conclusion: — According to the report, India's auto component business has a 10% cost disadvantage over China, with an extra 20% gap in manufacturing equipment. — China has a well-integrated supply chain that extends from raw minerals to high-value-added products, but India lacks such depth in its supplier ecosystem. — Despite being the world's fourth-largest vehicle producer behind China, the United States, and Japan, India accounts for only 3% (or approximately $20 billion) of worldwide auto component commerce. Points to Ponder Read more about FTA Read about India-US trade and India-EU trade Describe the benefits of deriving electric energy from sunlight in contrast to the conventional energy generation. What are the initiatives offered by our government for this purpose? (2020)
