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Indian Express
11 hours ago
- Climate
- Indian Express
Mains answer practice — GS 1 : Questions on inclusive education and influence of La Niña on global weather systems (Week 105)
UPSC Essentials brings to you its initiative for the practice of Mains answer writing. It covers essential topics of static and dynamic parts of the UPSC Civil Services syllabus covered under various GS papers. This answer-writing practice is designed to help you as a value addition to your UPSC CSE Mains. Attempt today's answer writing on questions related to topics of GS-1 to check your progress. 🚨 Click Here to read the UPSC Essentials magazine for May 2025. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at Examine the influence of La Niña on global weather systems and its implications for climate forecasting. Why do global climate models sometimes struggle to accurately predict La Niña events? India's evolving digital infrastructure has played a key role in promoting inclusive education. Critically discuss the opportunities and challenges this transformation presents. Introduction — The introduction of the answer is essential and should be restricted to 3-5 lines. Remember, a one-liner is not a standard introduction. — It may consist of basic information by giving some definitions from the trusted source and authentic facts. Body — It is the central part of the answer and one should understand the demand of the question to provide rich content. — The answer must be preferably written as a mix of points and short paragraphs rather than using long paragraphs or just points. — Using facts from authentic government sources makes your answer more comprehensive. Analysis is important based on the demand of the question, but do not over analyse. — Underlining keywords gives you an edge over other candidates and enhances presentation of the answer. — Using flowcharts/tree-diagram in the answers saves much time and boosts your score. However, it should be used logically and only where it is required. Way forward/ conclusion — The ending of the answer should be on a positive note and it should have a forward-looking approach. However, if you feel that an important problem must be highlighted, you may add it in your conclusion. Try not to repeat any point from body or introduction. — You may use the findings of reports or surveys conducted at national and international levels, quotes etc. in your answers. Self Evaluation — It is the most important part of our Mains answer writing practice. UPSC Essentials will provide some guiding points or ideas as a thought process that will help you to evaluate your answers. QUESTION 1: Examine the influence of La Niña on global weather systems and its implications for climate forecasting. Why do global climate models sometimes struggle to accurately predict La Niña events? Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — La Niña means 'Little Girl' in Spanish. La Niña is sometimes known as El Viejo, anti-El Niño, or 'a cold event.' La Niña has the opposite effect of El Niño. During La Niña, trade winds are stronger than usual, bringing warmer water to Asia. Upwelling occurs off the West Coast of the Americas, bringing cold, nutrient-rich water to the surface. – The chilly waters of the Pacific force the jet stream north. This often causes drought in the southern United States and heavy rains and flooding in the Pacific Northwest and Canada. During a La Niña, winter temperatures are lower in the north and warmer in the south. La Niña might lead to a more severe hurricane season. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reported that equatorial sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean were close to or below average last year. During the 'watch' phase of La Niña in November and early December, ENSO conditions were neutral. — The Oceanic Nino Index (ONI) in the Nino 3.4 zone, one of four key regions in the equatorial Pacific Ocean used to identify the ENSO phase, was -0.3°C. — Temperature variations from the equatorial Pacific's three-monthly average sea surface temperature are used to calculate the ONI. A La Niña begins when the ONI in this region is -0.5 degrees or lower. — If ONI readings exceed the threshold, temperatures will swiftly return to normal, resulting in a short and mild La Niña episode. Experts estimate that the weak La Niña will become ENSO-neutral from March to May 2025. This indicates that La Niña will have minimal impact on the Indian winter this year. Conclusion: — Weather models perform better when sea surface temperatures shift significantly, such as during a major El Niño or La Niña event. — This is unlikely to be the case this time, which has likely resulted in weather models failing to accurately predict conditions because they are unable to account for minute temperature differences in their inputs. (Source: Where is La Niña? And why did global models err in their predictions? by Anjali Marar, Points to Ponder What is the Indian Ocean Dipole? How it can limit El Nino effects Read about El Nino and La Nina Related Previous Year Questions Most of the unusual climatic happenings are explained as an outcome of the El-Nino effect. Do you agree? (2014) What is a twister? Why are the majority of twisters observed in areas around the Gulf of Mexico? (2024) QUESTION 2: India's evolving digital infrastructure has played a key role in promoting inclusive education. Critically discuss the opportunities and challenges this transformation presents. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — Pioneering digital public infrastructure (DPI) trials have enabled India's digital landscape to undergo such a spectacular transition. — These DPIs are digital channels that allow for the smooth delivery of important services, which benefits society. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — The Indian DPI ecosystem, known as the 'India Stack,' has played a critical role in harnessing the power of identities, payments, and data interchange to drive economic growth and build a more equitable digital economy. — The Right to Education statute applies until the age of 14 or Std VIII, which is the conclusion of the elementary school stage. — The number of AI-based tutoring systems is expanding. — Indian DPIs have the potential to close wealth gaps and build a resilient and effective digital economy that benefits individuals and organisations, beginning with empowering small businesses to improve access to healthcare and promoting financial and digital inclusion for citizens from less affluent socioeconomic backgrounds. — The recently released Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) 2023, which surveyed 14-18-year-olds across the country, discovered that nearly 89 per cent of those polled had a smartphone at home. An even higher percentage, 92 per cent, said they could use a smartphone. Conclusion: — Although the National Achievement Survey (NAS) and ASER use different metrics and methods for assessing learning, both point to the fact that basic learning levels of elementary school children need significant improvement. — India has achieved universal elementary education enrollment, and we are on track to attain universal secondary and higher secondary enrollment. (Source: ASER 2023: Male youth in rural India dominate smartphone ownership, girls lag in digital skills, How smartphones can make education inclusive by Madhav Chavan, ASER 2023 report: On education, let's listen to the teenagers by Rukmini Banerji) Points to Ponder National Achievement Survey (NAS) National Education Policy, 2020 Related Previous Year Questions Examine the uniqueness of tribal knowledge systems when compared with mainstream knowledge and cultural systems. (2021) Discuss the main objectives of Population Education and point out the measures to achieve them in India in detail. (2021) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 3 (Week 104) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 3 (Week 105) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 2 (Week 104) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 2 (Week 105) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 1 (Week 104) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 1 (Week 103) Subscribe to our UPSC newsletter and stay updated with the news cues from the past week. Stay updated with the latest UPSC articles by joining our Telegram channel – IndianExpress UPSC Hub, and follow us on Instagram and X.
Indian Express
2 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
2 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.
India.com
5 days ago
- Sport
- India.com
Meet Indian cricketer who cracked UPSC exam, played with Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, Rahul Dravid, now works as...,his name is...
The UPSC Civil Services examination is considered to be one of the toughest examinations in India. Every year, lakhs of aspirants sit for the entrance exam with the aim of becoming officers, but only a select few succeed. We all have heard actors and businessman quitting their work to pursue their dreams of becoming a civil servant. But have you wondered that one former Indian cricketer also cracked the UPSC exam before he made his debut for India? Amay Khusariya, the only international cricketer who cracked the UPSC examination, made his first-class cricket debut at the age of 17. Hailing from Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, Amay Khurasiya made his debut for India in International Cricket in 1999 in the Pepsi Cup against Sri Lanka. Interestingly, he had cracked the UPSC exam even before that. At 17, Amay began his domestic cricket career. Despite clearing one of the toughest competitive exams in India, his passion for cricket led him to choose a career as a professional cricketer over a civil services role. Born in 1972, Amay Khurasiya was a left-handed batsman. He made his debut for India in 1999 in a match against Sri Lanka in Pune. In that game, Amay played an impressive knock of 57 runs off 45 balls, which included several boundaries and 2 sixes, as per media reports. India won the match by 51 runs. Amay Khurasiya shared the dressing room with some of the biggest legends in Indian cricket, including Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, Rahul Dravid, Virender Sehwag, and Ajay Jadeja. Though he played only 12 One Day Internationals (ODIs) for India, scoring 149 runs, his international career was brief. His final appearance for India came in 2001 against Sri Lanka. However, in domestic first-class cricket, Khurasiya made a significant mark. He was a consistent performer and accumulated over 7,000 runs in 1999 matches, showcasing his talent and reliability as a top-order batsman. Before making his debut in international cricket, Amay Khurasiya had successfully cleared the UPSC exam—one of the most prestigious and challenging examinations in India. Despite this remarkable achievement, his deep passion for cricket ultimately influenced his decision. His interest in cricket led him to choose a career as a professional cricketer instead of pursuing a role in civil service. As per media reports, Amay Khurasiya is currently serving as an Inspector in the Indian Customs & Central Excise Department. Alongside his government role, he remains actively involved in cricket by mentoring young talent, particularly for the Indian Premier League (IPL) and potentially for the international stage. He has played a significant role in shaping the careers of emerging players like Rajat Patidar and fast bowler Avesh Khan, both of whom have gone on to make their mark in Indian cricket.
Indian Express
30-05-2025
- General
- Indian Express
Mains answer practice — GS 1 : Questions on impact of climate change on rain patterns in India and role of Indian National Army (Week 104)
UPSC Essentials brings to you its initiative for the practice of Mains answer writing. It covers essential topics of static and dynamic parts of the UPSC Civil Services syllabus covered under various GS papers. This answer-writing practice is designed to help you as a value addition to your UPSC CSE Mains. Attempt today's answer writing on questions related to topics of GS-1 to check your progress. 🚨 Click Here to read the UPSC Essentials magazine for May 2025. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at How has climate change influenced the monsoon rain pattern in India? How did the Indian National Army (INA) contribute to India's independence without fighting on the battlefield? Introduction — The introduction of the answer is essential and should be restricted to 3-5 lines. Remember, a one-liner is not a standard introduction. — It may consist of basic information by giving some definitions from the trusted source and authentic facts. Body — It is the central part of the answer and one should understand the demand of the question to provide rich content. — The answer must be preferably written as a mix of points and short paragraphs rather than using long paragraphs or just points. — Using facts from authentic government sources makes your answer more comprehensive. Analysis is important based on the demand of the question, but do not over analyse. — Underlining keywords gives you an edge over other candidates and enhances presentation of the answer. — Using flowcharts/tree-diagram in the answers saves much time and boosts your score. However, it should be used logically and only where it is required. Way forward/ conclusion — The ending of the answer should be on a positive note and it should have a forward-looking approach. However, if you feel that an important problem must be highlighted, you may add it in your conclusion. Try not to repeat any point from body or introduction. — You may use the findings of reports or surveys conducted at national and international levels, quotes etc. in your answers. Self Evaluation — It is the most important part of our Mains answer writing practice. UPSC Essentials will provide some guiding points or ideas as a thought process that will help you to evaluate your answers. QUESTION 1: How has climate change influenced the monsoon rain pattern in India? Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — A monsoon is a shift in winds that frequently results in a highly rainy or very dry season. Monsoons are typically connected with portions of Asia. — There are two notable types of monsoon in India: (i) Southwest monsoon: It occurs from June to September. It hits Kerala on the southwestern coast and then proceeds across the country. This monsoon is the primary monsoon affecting India — it not only brings respite from the heat but also contributes to the country's ecosystem and economy, especially the growing of kharif crops. (ii) Northeast monsoon: It is also known as the retreating monsoon, which occurs from October to December and affects peninsular India. It isn't as intense as the southwest monsoon but is crucial for the growth of rabi crops. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: Effects of climate change on rain patterns in India — According to the study, monsoon patterns in India have been fast-shifting. It is mainly driven by the accelerating rate of climate change. — The southwest monsoon rainfall rose in 55% of India's tehsils. The increase, however, has resulted from short-duration, severe rainfall, which frequently causes flash floods. — During the southwest monsoon in India, wet extremes account for an increasing share of total seasonal rainfall. — Changes in monsoon patterns can affect agriculture output and ecosystems. — Rainfall is not distributed evenly throughout the seasons and months. (Source: How India's monsoon rain pattern has been changing amid climate) Points to Ponder Cropping season Retreating monsoon Related Previous Year Questions Discuss the consequence of Climate change on the food security in tropical countries. (2023) What characteristics can be assigned to monsoon climate that succeeds in feeding more than 50 percent of the world population residing in Monsoon Asia? (2017) QUESTION 2: How did the Indian National Army (INA) contribute to India's independence without fighting on the battlefield? Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — The Indian National Army was formed on February 17, 1942, two days after the British surrendered to Japanese forces in Singapore. — It primarily consisted of Indian prisoners of war (PoWs) seized by the Japanese during their Southeast Asia campaign. The Japanese believed that a native Indian force would be an effective weapon in their intended takeover of India. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — Over the next six months, he would pull off a public relations coup, gaining support — both material and human — from the Indian diaspora in Japanese-occupied Southeast Asia. — The INA soon expanded to more than 40,000 members, and many Indians contributed their life savings to the cause. — Bose had hoped for a large-scale insurrection within the country to supplement the INA's offensive on the border. 'When the British government is thus attacked from both sides — from inside India and from outside — it will collapse, and the Indian people will then regain their liberty,' he declared in a speech delivered on July 9, 1943. — After being unable to take Imphal and Kohima, the supply starved INA, along with its Japanese allies, was forced to retreat, all while suffering heavy losses due to the enemy's air superiority and gunpowder, as well as starvation and disease. — By 1945, the British had launched their own campaign to retake Burma, and the INA once again found itself in retreat. — After the United States dropped two atomic bombs on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Japan surrendered on August 15. (Source: How Bose's INA helped India win independence — but not on the battlefield) Points to Ponder Red Fort trials Regiments of INA Related Previous Year Questions It would have been difficult for the Constituent Assembly to complete its historic task of drafting the Constitution for Independent India in just three years but for the experience gained with the Government of India Act, 1935. Discuss. (2015) Highlight the difference in the approach of Subhash Chandra Bose and Mahatma Gandhi in the struggle for freedom. (2016) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 3 (Week 104) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 3 (Week 103) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 2 (Week 104) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 2 (Week 103) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 1 (Week 102) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 1 (Week 103) Subscribe to our UPSC newsletter and stay updated with the news cues from the past week. Stay updated with the latest UPSC articles by joining our Telegram channel – IndianExpress UPSC Hub, and follow us on Instagram and X.
