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The initiative of 'Mains Answer Writing' by IASbook will help the UPSC & State PSC aspirants to daily practice before doing a mock test series. This free answer writing programme is available in English & Hindi to boost preparation with improved writing skills. Students can ask questions and write answers. You can also download free test papers pdfs, current affairs analysis and other educational resources to secure your selection in examination by scoring in all GS & Essay Papers.

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Mains Answer Writing Latest Questions

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TeamSupreme
Asked: February 19, 2025In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing Introduction Overview of Borders: Briefly introduce the significance of India’s borders with China (3,488 km) and Pakistan (3,323 km). Context of Tensions: Highlight the historical and ongoing geopolitical tensions that characterize these borders. Conflicting Issues and Security Challenges India-Pakistan Border Territorial Disputes: Discuss ...

upsc: border management
  1. Team
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction India's extensive borders with China (3,488 km) and Pakistan (3,323 km) are fraught with geopolitical tensions and security challenges that significantly impact national security and regional stability. Conflicting Issues Along the India-Pakistan Border Territorial DisputesRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    India’s extensive borders with China (3,488 km) and Pakistan (3,323 km) are fraught with geopolitical tensions and security challenges that significantly impact national security and regional stability.

    Conflicting Issues Along the India-Pakistan Border

    1. Territorial Disputes:
      • The Kashmir issue has been a longstanding conflict, leading to multiple wars (1947, 1965, 1999) and ongoing military standoffs due to the Instrument of Accession in 1947 (Source: Government Archives).
    2. Cross-border Terrorism:
      • Pakistan’s support for terrorist groups poses a major threat. The 2008 Mumbai attacks, executed by Lashkar-e-Taiba, resulted in extensive casualties and international condemnation (Source: Ministry of Home Affairs).
    3. Ceasefire Violations:
      • Frequent violations along the Line of Control (LoC) increase tensions and threaten civilian safety.
    4. Narcotics Trafficking:
      • The border regions are hotspots for drug trafficking, complicating security dynamics.
    5. Militant Infiltration:
      • Incidents like the Pathankot attack (2016) highlight the critical challenge of militant infiltration from Pakistan (Source: National Investigation Agency).

    Conflicting Issues Along the India-China Border

    1. Undefined Line of Actual Control (LAC):
      • The ambiguity of the LAC leads to confrontations, evidenced by the Galwan Valley clashes in 2020, which resulted in casualties on both sides (Source: Ministry of Defence).
    2. Territorial Claims:
      • China’s claims over Arunachal Pradesh complicate diplomatic relations.
    3. Infrastructure Competition:
      • China’s rapid development of infrastructure in Tibet raises strategic concerns, enhancing military logistics (Source: Strategic Studies).
    4. Cybersecurity Threats:
      • China poses significant cybersecurity risks, with numerous attacks attributed to state-sponsored actors targeting Indian infrastructure (Source: Cybersecurity Reports).

    Development Initiatives

    Border Area Development Programme (BADP)

    1. Infrastructure Enhancement:
      • Focus on improving roads and bridges; projects in Arunachal Pradesh have enhanced connectivity to remote villages.
    2. Healthcare and Education:
      • Establishing healthcare centers and schools in Jammu and Kashmir improves living standards (Source: BADP Reports).
    3. Agriculture Promotion:
      • Initiatives promote sustainable agricultural practices in the Northeast, leveraging biodiversity.
    4. Skill Development Initiatives:
      • Training programs empower local populations, creating employment opportunities.

    Border Infrastructure and Management (BIM) Scheme

    1. High-Tech Surveillance:
      • Implementation of UAVs and thermal imaging for enhanced border monitoring.
    2. Road and Telecom Connectivity:
      • Infrastructure upgrades in Ladakh improve defense and civilian communication.
    3. Development of Strategic Railways:
      • Rail links to northeastern states are prioritized for rapid troop movement.
    4. Integrated Check Posts:
      • Facilities streamline customs and immigration processes along the India-Pakistan border.

    India’s borders present significant security challenges, but initiatives like BADP and BIM aim to enhance infrastructure and promote stability in these critical regions, fostering development and security.

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TeamSupreme
Asked: February 19, 2025In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing Introduction Define Urban Flooding: Briefly explain what urban flooding is, emphasizing its status as a climate-induced disaster. Importance of the Topic: Mention the increasing vulnerability of urban areas due to climate change and rapid urbanization. Causes of Urban Flooding Increased Frequency ...

upsc: disaster management
  1. Team
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Causes of Urban Flooding Urban flooding in India is primarily driven by several interrelated factors: Increased Frequency of Extreme Rainfall: Climate change has led to more intense rainfall events, overwhelming existing drainage systems. For instance, Chennai faced severe flooding in NRead more

    Model Answer

    Causes of Urban Flooding

    Urban flooding in India is primarily driven by several interrelated factors:

    1. Increased Frequency of Extreme Rainfall: Climate change has led to more intense rainfall events, overwhelming existing drainage systems. For instance, Chennai faced severe flooding in November 2021 due to heavy downpours.
    2. Inadequate Urban Planning: Many cities, like Hyderabad, suffer from poorly designed drainage systems, leading to recurrent flooding, especially during the 2020 monsoon.
    3. Encroachment on Natural Water Bodies: Urban expansion often fills wetlands and rivers, increasing flood risks. For example, in Kolkata, construction on wetlands has worsened flooding during monsoons.
    4. Impervious Surfaces: The prevalence of concrete and asphalt roads prevents natural water absorption, increasing runoff.
    5. Outdated Infrastructure: Many urban areas rely on aging drainage systems that cannot cope with modern rainfall patterns.

    Major Flood Events

    Mumbai Floods 2005

    In July 2005, Mumbai experienced 944 mm of rainfall in just 24 hours, leading to widespread flooding, loss of life, and significant infrastructure disruption. This event highlighted the city’s inadequate drainage capacity.

    Kerala Floods 2018

    August 2018 saw catastrophic flooding in Kerala, attributed to extreme rainfall classified as a large excess by the IMD. This event displaced over a million people and caused extensive damage.

    Policies and Frameworks

    India has implemented several policies to tackle urban flooding:

    1. National Water Mission: This initiative promotes integrated water resource management and aims to enhance conservation efforts.
    2. Disaster Management Act, 2005: This act provides a framework for disaster preparedness and response, enabling states to develop their disaster management plans.
    3. JnNURM: The Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission focuses on improving urban infrastructure, including flood management systems.
    4. National Disaster Management Plan, 2016: This plan outlines strategies for disaster risk reduction and preparedness.
    5. Central Water Commission Guidelines: These guidelines encourage best practices for urban flood management across states, advocating for effective drainage systems.

    By addressing the root causes through comprehensive policies and sustainable urban development, India can better mitigate the impacts of urban flooding.

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TeamSupreme
Asked: February 19, 2025In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing Introduction Definition of Disaster Resilience: Define disaster resilience as the capacity of communities, systems, and nations to prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters, minimizing impacts on lives, livelihoods, and infrastructure. How Disaster Resilience is Determined Risk Identification: Emphasize the importance ...

upsc: disaster management
  1. Team
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction Disaster resilience refers to the capacity of communities, systems, and nations to effectively prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters, thereby minimizing their impacts on lives, livelihoods, and infrastructure. It encompasses a comprehensive approach that integRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    Disaster resilience refers to the capacity of communities, systems, and nations to effectively prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters, thereby minimizing their impacts on lives, livelihoods, and infrastructure. It encompasses a comprehensive approach that integrates preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation strategies.

    How is Disaster Resilience Determined?

    Disaster resilience is determined through several key factors:

    1. Risk Identification: Comprehensive assessments to identify hazards and vulnerabilities are fundamental. For example, the Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment (HIRA) process in India evaluates potential risks across various regions.
    2. Community Involvement: Engaging communities in the assessment process ensures local knowledge is integrated into planning.
    3. Resource Allocation: Ensuring adequate resources for emergency preparedness is essential.
    4. Policy Implementation: Strong policies and resilient infrastructure mitigate disaster impacts. Japan’s stringent building codes have been instrumental in reducing vulnerabilities to earthquakes.
    5. Adaptation: The ability to adapt to emerging challenges, such as climate change, is crucial for resilience.
    6. Recovery Capabilities: Effective recovery processes are vital for restoring communities post-disaster, as seen in the recovery efforts after Hurricane Katrina.

    Elements of a Resilience Framework

    Key elements of a resilience framework include:

    • Dynamic Governance Integration: Collaborative governance structures enhance resilience planning.
    • Predictive Analytics: Advanced data analytics improve disaster forecasting and response planning.
    • Green Infrastructure: Sustainable infrastructure, like green roofs, mitigates environmental impacts.
    • Virtual Reality Training: Immersive technologies prepare individuals for disaster scenarios.
    • Adaptive Recovery Strategies: Recovery efforts must be flexible and responsive to changing conditions.
    • Collaborative Platforms: Engaging diverse stakeholders fosters a holistic approach to resilience.

    Global Targets of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015-2030)

    The Sendai Framework outlines several global targets to enhance disaster resilience:

    1. Reduction in Disaster Mortality: Aim to substantially lower the global disaster mortality rate by 2030.
    2. Decrease in Affected Individuals: Strive to reduce the total number of people affected by disasters.
    3. Minimization of Economic Losses: Target a reduction in direct economic losses relative to global GDP.
    4. Protection of Infrastructure: Strengthen the resilience of critical infrastructure and essential services.
    5. Expansion of Disaster Management Strategies: Encourage the development of disaster risk management strategies at all levels.
    6. Promotion of International Cooperation: Foster international collaboration to enhance disaster resilience.
    7. Access to Early Warning Systems: Ensure that all communities have access to multi-hazard early warning systems by 2030.

    Conclusion

    Strengthening disaster resilience is an ongoing process that requires innovation, international collaboration, and a commitment to integrating disaster risk reduction into all aspects of societal development.

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TeamSupreme
Asked: February 19, 2025In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing Introduction Definition of Asteroids: Define asteroids as rocky, airless remnants from the early solar system, dating back approximately 4.6 billion years. State their primary location in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter. About Asteroids Composition and Classification: Discuss the variety in size ...

upsc: space
  1. Team
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction Asteroids are rocky, airless remnants from the early formation of our solar system, dating back approximately 4.6 billion years. They primarily orbit the Sun in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter and vary widely in size and composition, containing rock, metals, andRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    Asteroids are rocky, airless remnants from the early formation of our solar system, dating back approximately 4.6 billion years. They primarily orbit the Sun in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter and vary widely in size and composition, containing rock, metals, and other elements. Asteroids are categorized into types such as C-type (carbonaceous), S-type (silicaceous), and M-type (metal-rich).

    Threat of Asteroids Causing Extinction of Life

    The threat posed by asteroids is significant, particularly due to historical events. For instance, a massive asteroid impact is believed to have caused the extinction of the dinosaurs around 66 million years ago, with the Chicxulub crater in Mexico marking the impact site. Such large asteroids, typically over 1 km in diameter, could lead to global catastrophes, including severe climate disruption and ecosystem collapse. Although the probability of a significant impact is low, the potential consequences warrant concern. NASA’s Planetary Defense Coordination Office emphasizes the severe global effects that could result from a large impact.

    Strategies to Prevent Catastrophe

    To mitigate the risks associated with asteroids, several strategies have been developed:

    1. Space Missions for Deflection: Missions like NASA’s DART (Double Asteroid Redirection Test) aim to alter the paths of asteroids through kinetic impact, demonstrating that such threats can be diverted.
    2. International Cooperation: Global collaboration enhances preparedness through data sharing and coordinated responses to potential threats. The United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs supports these initiatives.
    3. Early Warning Systems: Networks like the International Asteroid Warning Network play a critical role in providing early alerts and coordinating response efforts, improving the ability to detect and monitor asteroids.
    4. Technological Advancements: Enhanced radar and telescope technologies, such as the Large Synoptic Survey Telescope, improve tracking capabilities for even faint and rapidly moving asteroids.

    Conclusion

    While the likelihood of a life-extinguishing asteroid impact is low, the severe consequences of such an event necessitate ongoing vigilance and preparedness through continuous monitoring, international collaboration, and technological advancements.

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TeamSupreme
Asked: February 19, 2025In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing Introduction Global Water Crisis Overview: Briefly introduce the acute shortage of clean and safe freshwater, emphasizing its significance as a global issue. Mention the recognition of access to clean water under Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG-6). Reasons for Freshwater Scarcity Increasing Population: Highlight ...

upsc: applications & awareness in technology
  1. Team
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction The world is facing an acute shortage of clean and safe freshwater, driven by factors such as population growth, climate change, and pollution. Innovative technologies are essential to address this crisis. Here are three alternative technologies that can help solve the fresRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    The world is facing an acute shortage of clean and safe freshwater, driven by factors such as population growth, climate change, and pollution. Innovative technologies are essential to address this crisis. Here are three alternative technologies that can help solve the freshwater scarcity issue, along with their merits and demerits.

    1. Desalination Technologies

    Desalination involves converting seawater into freshwater by removing salt and impurities. This technology is particularly beneficial for coastal regions facing freshwater shortages. For instance, the Sorek desalination plant in Israel supplies approximately 20% of the country’s drinking water.

    • Merits:
      • Provides a reliable water source for coastal areas.
      • Can produce large quantities of freshwater to meet urban demands.
    • Demerits:
      • High energy consumption, which can increase carbon footprints.
      • Environmental concerns related to brine disposal, which can harm marine ecosystems.

    2. Rainwater Harvesting

    Rainwater harvesting captures and stores rainwater for reuse, especially in areas with seasonal rainfall. Traditional methods, such as Johads in Rajasthan, effectively recharge groundwater and provide irrigation water.

    • Merits:
      • Simple to implement and cost-effective.
      • Reduces reliance on groundwater and helps in groundwater recharge.
    • Demerits:
      • Effectiveness is limited in regions with low rainfall.
      • Requires adequate storage infrastructure to be effective.

    3. Wastewater Recycling and Reuse

    This technology treats and reuses wastewater for various applications, including industrial use and potable water. Singapore’s NEWater project is a notable example, meeting about 40% of the country’s water needs.

    • Merits:
      • Conserves freshwater by recycling used water.
      • Reduces the burden on freshwater sources and wastewater treatment facilities.
    • Demerits:
      • High initial setup costs can be a barrier to implementation.
      • Public resistance to using treated wastewater may hinder acceptance.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, tackling freshwater scarcity requires a combination of innovative technologies like desalination, rainwater harvesting, and wastewater recycling, along with effective policies and community involvement to ensure sustainable water access.

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TeamSupreme
Asked: February 19, 2025In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing Introduction Define Buffer Stocks: Briefly explain what buffer stocks are and their purpose in agricultural economics. Context in India: Mention the significance of buffer stocks in the Indian agricultural landscape. Importance of Buffer Stocks for Stabilizing Agricultural Prices Price Stabilization: Mechanism: Explain ...

upsc: storage transport & marketing in agriculture
  1. Team
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction Buffer stocks play a crucial role in stabilizing agricultural prices in India and ensuring food security, especially during periods of crisis such as crop failures or inflationary surges. As of April 2023, India’s central pool had 113 million tonnes (LMT) of wheat and 236 LRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    Buffer stocks play a crucial role in stabilizing agricultural prices in India and ensuring food security, especially during periods of crisis such as crop failures or inflationary surges. As of April 2023, India’s central pool had 113 million tonnes (LMT) of wheat and 236 LMT of rice, significantly exceeding the buffer norms of 75 LMT and 136 LMT, respectively . The management of these stocks is vital for protecting both consumers and farmers from market volatility.

    Importance of Buffer Stocks for Stabilizing Agricultural Prices

    1. Price Stability: Buffer stocks act as a safeguard against price volatility by releasing stocks during price surges, ensuring food prices remain affordable. For instance, the Food Corporation of India (FCI) releases grains during high price periods to stabilize markets, particularly during poor monsoon seasons .
    2. Food Security: They ensure food security during natural disasters or crises by supplying essential food grains to the Public Distribution System (PDS). For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, buffer stocks were utilized to provide free grains under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) .
    3. Support for Farmers: By procuring grains at Minimum Support Prices (MSP), buffer stocks provide assured income to farmers, shielding them from price crashes during surplus production .
    4. Market Intervention: Buffer stocks enable government intervention to correct market imbalances, preventing extreme price fluctuations that can harm consumers or farmers .
    5. Economic Stability: They contribute to macroeconomic stability by controlling food price inflation, which has direct impacts on overall inflationary pressures in the economy .

    Challenges Associated with the Storage of Buffer Stocks

    1. Storage Infrastructure: India’s storage infrastructure is inadequate, leading to poor handling and spoilage of grains. The reliance on conventional godowns results in significant post-harvest losses .
    2. High Maintenance Cost: Maintaining large buffer stocks incurs high operational costs, including storage and transportation, straining public finances .
    3. Pilferage and Theft: The system faces challenges of pilferage and theft due to poor security measures, resulting in substantial losses .
    4. Quality Degradation: Grains stored for extended periods often suffer from quality degradation, particularly in traditional storage facilities lacking proper ventilation.
    5. Logistical Challenges: Transportation and movement of buffer stocks across remote regions present logistical hurdles, leading to delays and mismanagement.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, while buffer stocks are essential for stabilizing agricultural prices and ensuring food security in India, addressing the challenges associated with their storage is crucial for enhancing their effectiveness.

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TeamSupreme
Asked: February 19, 2025In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing Introduction Briefly introduce the importance of irrigation in India and its role in agriculture. Mention the percentage of net sown area dependent on irrigation. Major Challenges Faced by the Indian Irrigation System Groundwater Exploitation: Discuss the over-extraction of groundwater and its ...

upsc: irrigation
  1. Team
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction India's irrigation system faces several significant challenges that hinder agricultural productivity and water management. Major Challenges Faced by the Indian Irrigation System Dependence on Unpredictable Monsoon Patterns: The Indian irrigation system heavily relies on monRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    India’s irrigation system faces several significant challenges that hinder agricultural productivity and water management.

    Major Challenges Faced by the Indian Irrigation System

    1. Dependence on Unpredictable Monsoon Patterns: The Indian irrigation system heavily relies on monsoon rains, which are often erratic and delayed. Regions like Marathwada and Vidarbha in Maharashtra frequently experience droughts, leading to crop failures and increased farmer distress .
    2. Deterioration of Irrigation Infrastructure: Many irrigation systems are outdated and poorly maintained, resulting in inefficiencies and significant water wastage. Silted dams and leaking canals reduce water availability at the farm level .
    3. Subsidized Electricity: The provision of cheap or free electricity for agricultural pumping encourages over-extraction of groundwater, particularly in states like Punjab and Haryana, leading to severe depletion of aquifers.
    4. High Costs of Modern Irrigation Systems: While modern irrigation techniques like drip and sprinkler systems are effective in conserving water, their high initial costs make them inaccessible for small and marginal farmers.
    5. Fragmented Policy Implementation: The lack of coordination among various levels of government leads to inefficiencies in implementing irrigation policies, such as the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY).
    6. Water Pollution: The overuse of fertilizers and pesticides has contaminated water bodies, making them unsuitable for irrigation, particularly in regions reliant on rivers.
    7. Climate Change: Increasingly frequent extreme weather events, such as floods and droughts, disrupt traditional irrigation practices and exacerbate water scarcity.

    Measures Taken by the Government for Efficient Irrigation Management

    1. Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY): Launched in 2015, this scheme aims to improve irrigation infrastructure and promote micro-irrigation to ensure efficient water use.
    2. Command Area Development and Water Management: This program enhances the utilization of irrigation potential through better management practices in command areas.
    3. National Water Policy Revision: The revised policy emphasizes sustainable water management and the adoption of water-saving technologies.
    4. Participatory Irrigation Management (PIM): This initiative encourages the involvement of Water User Associations in managing irrigation systems, leading to better local water management.
    5. Adoption of Advanced Technologies: The government promotes the use of remote sensing and GIS to monitor irrigation projects and improve water use efficiency.
    6. International Collaborations: India collaborates with countries like Israel to adopt modern irrigation techniques that optimize water usage.

    Conclusion

    Addressing the challenges faced by the Indian irrigation system through effective government measures is crucial for sustainable agricultural productivity and water security.

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On: February 22, 2025 Comments: 0

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On: February 22, 2025 Comments: 0

India’s Disaster Management

The article discusses the growing tensions between the Centre and states regarding disaster relief funding in India. It emphasizes the need for a transparent and equitable disaster management framework. Key Disaster Threats India Faces Increasing Frequency of Extreme Weather Events ...

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