Answer the question in maximum 50 words/5 to 6 lines. This question carries 05 marks. [MPPSC 2023] Write a note on granite.
Mains Answer Writing Latest Questions
Sayanti DeBegginer
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Benefits of GMOs in Increasing Ecological Diversity in Degraded Ecosystems: Soil Restoration: GMOs could be used to improve the quality of soil through nitrogen-fixation and phytoremediation that diverse plants and animals can live within it. Pollinator Resources: GMO plants with pest resistance wilRead more
- Benefits of GMOs in Increasing Ecological Diversity in Degraded Ecosystems:
- Soil Restoration: GMOs could be used to improve the quality of soil through nitrogen-fixation and phytoremediation that diverse plants and animals can live within it.
- Pollinator Resources: GMO plants with pest resistance will decrease the use of pesticides; this, in turn, opens up resources for bees and butterflies to flourish upon.
- Prevention of Erosion: GMOs are deep-rooted and drought-resistant which allows them to stabilize the soil; and on this basis, stable habitats are prevented from further degradation.
It leads to more diversity of plants with GMOs that mimic the characteristics of native species, provide shelter to specialist species, and prevent invasive species from flourishing over them in order to regain ecological balance.
It increases carbon sequestration through carbon-fortified GMOs, thereby supporting plant as well as microbial diversity.
Climate-resilient: This GMO, with climatic adaptation and disease resistance, sustains the ecosystems in conditions of extreme variations.
Nutrient-enriched GMO ensures food and shelter to sustain higher biodiversity at various scales.
High-Risk Controversies Associated with Genetically Modified Organisms:
1. Unintended Effects on Organisms and Ecosystems
Metabolic and Growth Change: Genetic manipulation of an organism can alter the metabolism and growth, and interaction with the environment.
Influence on Ecosystem: GMO can influence the ecosystem. Its changes can be passed to the wild populations, resulting in the transformation of local biodiversity.2. Human Health Issues
New Allergens: The introduction of GMOs could also introduce some new allergens, hence the major threat to consumers who may face allergic reactions especially with allergenic genes of common allergens like nuts or milk being used.
Antibiotic Resistance: Transfer of antibiotic-resistant genes from GM foods to the gut flora is still another health risk
3. Gene Transfer Hazards
Horizontal Gene Transfer: The risk of transferring genes to non-target organisms is negligible, but it might cause ecological imbalances and enhance resistance to pesticides or antibiotics.
Vertical Gene Transfer: If the GMOs cross-breed with the wild species, new transgenes may change the survival rate of the GMOs besides affecting the wild populations as well as in the experiments conducted with transgenic fish.4. Super Pests and Weeds Evolution
Development of Resistance: The selective pressure allows pests and weeds to develop resistance, making them “superbugs” and “superweeds.”
Increased Herbicide Intensity: The complexity can lead to higher dosages or different herbicides that may damage adjacent ecosystems and raise their chemical content.5. Impact on Beneficial Organisms and Ecosystems
Impacts on Non-Target Organisms: Aggression effects can be triggered to advantageous insects and other species due to GMO traits associated with pest resistance.
Soil Quality: Residues from herbicide or pest-resistant plants can impact key soil organisms, including bacteria, fungi, and nematodes.
6. Viral Resistance and Disease Spread
Novel Virus Reassembly: The emergence of transgenic viral resistance can lead to new viruses assembled from existing viruses, which may introduce new plant diseases into a region.7. Food Biotechnology Safety Issues
Allergenic and Toxic Components: Gene transfer may also lead to new allergenic proteins or toxins, such as those already identified to be linked to some GM bean varieties.Mutation Potential: Gene insertion may also cause new mutations that do not express any predictable impacts on human health.
8. Ethical and Socioeconomic Concerns
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Tampering with Nature: Ethical concerns and long-term effects of manipulating organisms in nature
Food Labeling: Should GMO food be labeled for public awareness?
Intellectual Property: Corporate players control ownership rights over GMO seeds, which can indirectly affect the rights of farmers and the marketplace at large - Benefits of GMOs in Increasing Ecological Diversity in Degraded Ecosystems:
PratishthaBegginer
Which agriculture modern equipment should be used in India which can boost the productivity?
TeamSupreme
Analyze the ocean’s energy resources and their potential on the Indian coast region. 200 words [2019 UPSC]
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Introduction India, with a vast coastline of about 7,500 kilometers, has significant potential in harnessing oceanic energy resources. These resources include wave energy, tidal energy, ocean thermal energy, and marine biomass. 2. Wave Energy Wave energy has considerable potential along India’s westRead more
Introduction
India, with a vast coastline of about 7,500 kilometers, has significant potential in harnessing oceanic energy resources. These resources include wave energy, tidal energy, ocean thermal energy, and marine biomass.2. Wave Energy
Wave energy has considerable potential along India’s western coastline, particularly near states like Gujarat and Maharashtra. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands also offer promising sites due to their exposure to powerful ocean waves. Wave energy converters can capture the kinetic energy of ocean waves and convert it into electrical power. However, the technology for efficient wave energy capture and its high installation and maintenance costs remain significant challenges.3. Tidal Energy
Tidal energy can be harnessed from the rise and fall of tides. India’s coastal regions, especially around the Gulf of Kutch and the Sundarbans, have potential for tidal energy projects. Tidal turbines and barrages could exploit tidal movements to generate power. Yet, issues such as environmental impact, high costs, and the intermittent nature of tidal flows need addressing for viable implementation.4. Ocean Thermal Energy
Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) utilizes the temperature difference between the warm surface waters and the cold deep waters of the ocean. India’s tropical coastlines, like those in Tamil Nadu and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, are well-suited for OTEC. This technology can provide a continuous power supply, but it requires substantial investment in infrastructure and technology development.5. Marine Biomass
Marine biomass, including algae and seaweeds, offers potential for biofuel production. Coastal regions with extensive marine vegetation, such as the coastal areas of Kerala and Karnataka, can be harnessed for sustainable energy. However, commercial viability is constrained by challenges related to collection, processing, and market demand.6. Conclusion
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India’s coastlines offer substantial potential for developing oceanic energy resources. While technologies like wave energy, tidal energy, ocean thermal energy, and marine biomass present promising opportunities, challenges such as high costs, technological barriers, and environmental impacts must be addressed to fully harness these resources. Effective research, investment, and policy support will be crucial in realizing the potential of oceanic energy along India’s coast.
Harsh SinghBegginer
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India has witnessed several agricultural revolutions since independence, transforming the sector and improving food security and poverty alleviation. *Types of Revolutions:* 1. *Green Revolution (1960s-1970s)*: Introduction of high-yielding wheat and rice varieties, irrigation, fertilizers, and pestRead more
India has witnessed several agricultural revolutions since independence, transforming the sector and improving food security and poverty alleviation.
*Types of Revolutions:*
1. *Green Revolution (1960s-1970s)*: Introduction of high-yielding wheat and rice varieties, irrigation, fertilizers, and pesticides.
– Increased food grain production by 200%.
– Made India self-sufficient in food production.
2. *White Revolution (1970s)*: National Dairy Development Board’s “Operation Flood” initiative.
– Increased milk production from 20 million tons (1970) to 176 million tons (2019).
– Empowered rural women through dairy cooperatives.
3. *Yellow Revolution (1990s)*: Focus on oilseeds production.
– Increased oilseeds production from 10 million tons (1990) to 30 million tons (2019).
– Reduced edible oil imports.
4. *Blue Revolution (2000s)*: Focus on fisheries and aquaculture.
– Increased fish production from 4 million tons (2000) to 12 million tons (2019).
– Generated employment and income for coastal communities.
5. *Evergreen Revolution (2010s)*: Focus on sustainable agriculture practices.
– Promotes organic farming, crop diversification, and climate-resilient agriculture.
– Aims to increase productivity while preserving natural resources.*Impact on Poverty Alleviation and Food Security:*
1. Reduced poverty: Agricultural growth generated employment and income opportunities.
2. Improved food security: Increased food production and availability.
3. Enhanced nutrition: Diversified crops and livestock improved dietary diversity.
4. Empowered rural communities: Cooperatives and self-help groups enabled collective decision-making.
5. Increased exports: Agricultural exports contributed to India’s economic growth.*Challenges and Future Directions:*
1. Sustainability: Addressing environmental concerns and climate change.
2. Inclusivity: Ensuring benefits reach small and marginal farmers.
3. Technological advancements: Leveraging technology for precision agriculture.
4. Market access: Improving market linkages for farmers.
5. Policy support: Continuing government initiatives and investments.
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TeamSupreme
Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Definition of Freshwater Resources: Explain what constitutes freshwater resources, including rivers, lakes, groundwater, and glaciers. Current Statistics: Present key statistics to highlight the crisis: Approximately 1.1 billion people lack consistent access to clean drinking water. Around 2.7 billion people ...
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Model Answer Introduction Freshwater resources, which include rivers, lakes, groundwater, and glaciers, are essential for drinking, irrigation, industry, and ecological stability. However, approximately 1.1 billion people lack consistent access to clean drinking water, and around 2.7 billion face reRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
Freshwater resources, which include rivers, lakes, groundwater, and glaciers, are essential for drinking, irrigation, industry, and ecological stability. However, approximately 1.1 billion people lack consistent access to clean drinking water, and around 2.7 billion face recurring water scarcity, highlighting a significant crisis in both availability and access to freshwater resources.
Reasons Behind the Crisis of Availability of Freshwater Resources
- Growing Demand vs. Limited Supply: The global population is projected to increase by nearly 2 billion over the next 30 years, leading to a surge in demand for freshwater while the available supply remains relatively constant.
- Climate Change and Altered Precipitation Patterns: Climate change is causing unpredictable rainfall and prolonged droughts, disrupting the natural replenishment of freshwater sources. For example, in August 2023, India experienced a rainfall shortfall of 36% below normal levels.
- Over-Extraction and Depletion of Aquifers: Many regions are over-pumping groundwater faster than it can be replenished. It is projected that approximately 60% of India’s aquifers will be in a critical state within the next two decades if current patterns persist.
- Pollution and Contamination: Industrial, agricultural, and domestic pollutants make freshwater sources unsuitable for consumption. The World Bank reports that over 80% of wastewater in developing countries is discharged untreated into rivers and lakes.
- Inefficient Water Management: Inadequate infrastructure and wasteful irrigation practices contribute to inefficient use of available freshwater resources. For instance, poorly maintained irrigation systems can waste approximately 25,000 gallons of water annually.
Reasons Behind the Crisis of Access to Freshwater Resources
- Inadequate Infrastructure: Many regions, especially rural and marginalized communities, lack the necessary infrastructure to provide freshwater. For example, the Democratic Republic of Congo, despite having 50% of Africa’s water resources, struggles with access to potable water.
- Economic Disparities: Low-income communities often cannot afford water services. In urban slums of Mumbai, families rely on limited and contaminated water sources due to high costs.
- Political and Social Conflicts: Disputes over water rights can restrict access to shared resources, as seen in the ongoing conflict between Ethiopia, Sudan, and Egypt over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam on the Nile River.
- Natural Disasters and Conflicts: Events like floods and earthquakes can disrupt water infrastructure, limiting access to freshwater.
- Lack of Education and Awareness: Limited understanding of water hygiene and conservation practices hinders efforts to improve access to freshwater in certain communities.
Conclusion
Addressing the crisis of freshwater availability and access is urgent, given its vital role in sustaining life and socio-economic development. Collaborative efforts and effective management strategies are essential to ensure that clean and accessible freshwater is available for all.
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TeamSupreme
Roadmap for Answer Writing Introduction Define petroleum refineries and their role in converting crude oil into usable products. State the observation that in many developing countries, refineries are often situated far from oil-producing regions. Briefly introduce the implications of this geographical disconnect. Body Section 1: Benefits ...
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Model Answer Introduction Petroleum is a vital natural resource that is extracted and refined into various fuels. In many developing countries, petroleum refineries are often situated far from crude oil-producing regions. This geographical disconnect presents several implications for economic stabilRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
Petroleum is a vital natural resource that is extracted and refined into various fuels. In many developing countries, petroleum refineries are often situated far from crude oil-producing regions. This geographical disconnect presents several implications for economic stability and environmental considerations.
Benefits of Refineries Near Oil Resources
Refineries positioned close to crude oil sources enjoy numerous advantages:
- Reduced Transportation Costs: Proximity to oil sources minimizes transportation expenses, which can lead to lower final product prices and increased profitability (World Bank, 2020).
- Efficient Infrastructure Access: Being near transportation networks such as pipelines and railways enhances logistical efficiency, facilitating quicker product delivery to markets.
- Skilled Labor Availability: Locations with a skilled workforce can reduce labor costs and improve operational efficiency (International Energy Agency, 2019).
- Support Services Accessibility: Refineries benefit from nearby engineering, maintenance, and repair services, further driving down operational costs.
- Economic Benefits: Local refineries stimulate job creation, boost tax revenues, and foster local business growth, contributing to regional economic development.
Drawbacks of Refineries Away from Oil Resources
Conversely, refineries located far from crude oil sources face significant challenges:
- Increased Transportation Costs: Long-distance transportation raises crude oil delivery expenses, which can subsequently inflate petroleum product prices (Energy Information Administration, 2021).
- Dependence on Imports: Countries with distant refineries may rely on imports, heightening vulnerability to supply disruptions and global price volatility.
- Environmental Risks: Transporting crude oil over long distances increases the risk of oil spills and environmental disasters, posing threats to ecosystems and human health (Environmental Protection Agency, 2020).
- Limited Local Economic Benefits: Refineries situated far from oil fields may not significantly contribute to local economies or job creation.
- Energy Security Concerns: Reliance on imported petroleum products raises energy security issues, particularly in politically unstable regions.
Conclusion
The location of petroleum refineries in developing countries, often distant from crude oil-producing areas, has profound implications. These include increased costs, reliance on imports, environmental risks, and limited local economic benefits. Policymakers must address these challenges to ensure sustainable energy supply chains and enhance energy security.
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TeamSupreme
A significant reduction in human suffering can be achieved via efficient management of land and water resources. Describe. (200 words) [UPSC 2016]
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Effective land and water resource management involves sustainable practices, efficient allocation, conservation and integrated planning to optimize agricultural productivity, mitigate climate change, reduce environmental degradation and ensure equitable access to clean water.Effective management ofRead more
Effective land and water resource management involves sustainable practices, efficient allocation, conservation and integrated planning to optimize agricultural productivity, mitigate climate change, reduce environmental degradation and ensure equitable access to clean water.Effective management of land and water resources is crucial for reducing human miseries related to –
- Mitigates droughts and floods by enhancing water storage, efficient irrigation and flood control measures, reducing humanitarian crises and economic losses.
- Minimizes soil erosion through conservation tillage, terracing and cover cropping, reducing landslides, desertification and agricultural productivity losses.
- Alleviates water scarcity through efficient irrigation, water harvesting, conservation and watershed protection, ensuring reliable access to clean water.
- Enhances food security through sustainable agriculture, efficient irrigation, crop diversification and water conservation, reducing hunger and malnutrition significantly.
- Fosters poverty alleviation through sustainable livelihoods, enhanced agricultural productivity and income generation, empowering rural communities and promoting economic growth.
- Minimizes displacement and migration by providing sustainable livelihoods, enhancing food security and adapting to climate change, promoting stable communities.
- Reduces water borne diseases through improved sanitation, wastewater treatment and safe drinking water supply, protecting public health and well being.
- Reduces malnutrition through diverse crop production, efficient irrigation, and sustainable agriculture, ensuring access to nutrient rich food and promoting healthy communities.
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Introduction Granite is a common and widely recognized igneous rock that is formed from the slow crystallization of magma beneath the Earth's surface. It is known for its durability, strength, and aesthetic appeal, making it a popular choice for construction and decorative purposes. Granite is primaRead more
Introduction
Granite is a common and widely recognized igneous rock that is formed from the slow crystallization of magma beneath the Earth’s surface. It is known for its durability, strength, and aesthetic appeal, making it a popular choice for construction and decorative purposes. Granite is primarily composed of quartz, feldspar, and mica, and its properties vary depending on its mineral composition and the conditions under which it forms.
Composition and Characteristics
Recent Examples and Applications
Conclusion
Granite is a versatile and durable igneous rock with significant applications in construction, architecture, and historical preservation. Its composition of quartz, feldspar, and mica imparts strength, durability, and aesthetic appeal, making it a preferred material for various uses. Recent examples highlight granite’s continued relevance and its evolving role in sustainable practices and modern architecture. However, challenges related to mining practices and environmental impact emphasize the need for responsible management and innovation in the industry.
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