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Discuss the significant challenges faced by the PM-KISAN Scheme despite its benefits to a large number of farmers.
Model Answer The PM-KISAN Scheme, launched in 2019, aims to provide income support of ₹6,000 annually to all landholding farmer families. While over 11 crore farmer families have benefitted from its direct benefit transfer (DBT) mechanism, the scheme faces several significant challenges. Key BenefitRead more
Model Answer
The PM-KISAN Scheme, launched in 2019, aims to provide income support of ₹6,000 annually to all landholding farmer families. While over 11 crore farmer families have benefitted from its direct benefit transfer (DBT) mechanism, the scheme faces several significant challenges.
Key Benefits of the Scheme
Challenges with the Scheme
Conclusion
Despite its transformative potential, the PM-KISAN Scheme struggles with low coverage, compliance hurdles, and fund misallocation. Addressing these challenges by improving beneficiary identification, simplifying processes, and strengthening monitoring mechanisms is essential to maximize its impact. The government’s plan to evaluate the scheme is a positive step toward ensuring its long-term success.
See lessDiscuss the provisions of the WTO's Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies aimed at prohibiting harmful subsidies and analyze its implications for India's fisheries sector. (200 words)
Model Answer The WTO’s Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, adopted during its 12th Ministerial Conference, seeks to address harmful fishing subsidies that contribute to overfishing, illegal practices, and ecosystem degradation. The agreement requires two-thirds of WTO members to ratify it for implemenRead more
Model Answer
The WTO’s Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, adopted during its 12th Ministerial Conference, seeks to address harmful fishing subsidies that contribute to overfishing, illegal practices, and ecosystem degradation. The agreement requires two-thirds of WTO members to ratify it for implementation.
Provisions of the Agreement
Implications for India’s Fisheries Sector
Conclusion
While the agreement aims to promote sustainable fishing practices, it presents significant challenges for India’s small-scale fishers and subsidy-dependent communities. Balancing environmental goals with the socio-economic realities of developing countries remains a key concern for India.
See lessWhat are the environmental impacts of monoculture farming practices?
When a farmer plants only one crop species in each field this style of farming creates serious problems for our environment. Soil Degradation: -Nutrient Depletion: When farmers keep planting the same crop year after year they drain essential nutrients from their soil which harms its planting abilityRead more
When a farmer plants only one crop species in each field this style of farming creates serious problems for our environment.
Soil Degradation:
-Nutrient Depletion: When farmers keep planting the same crop year after year they drain essential nutrients from their soil which harms its planting ability.
-Erosion: When farmers cultivate monoculture they break up soil on fields which then leads to more erosion on hillsides especially.
-Organic Matter Reduced: When farmers grow only one type of plant in their field their crops produce fewer diverse roots which then leads to reduced organic matter entering the soil and poorer soil conditions.
Biodiversity Loss:
Habitat Destruction: Large-scale single-crop operations destroy natural vegetation which eliminates shelter for nearly all plants insects and animals.
-Pest and Disease Outbreaks: When farmers plant only one type of crop over many acres disease and insect threats become bigger problems that push up pesticide use.
Water Pollution:
-Chemical Runoff: When fertilizer and pesticide use gets out of hand they taint their way through groundwater and surface water systems.
-Increased Water Use: Corn and cotton fields consume large amounts of water which stresses our water supplies.
Climate Change:
See less-Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Monoculture farming depends heavily on fossil fuel tools and synthetic farming compounds which both create CO2 emissions.
-Reduced Carbon Sequestration: Our monoculture farmlands store less carbon because they host lower amounts of plant diversity than diverse natural habitats.
What are the major challenges of Public Distribution System (PDS) in India? How can it be made effective and transparent? (150 words)[UPSC 2022]
PDS, in India is a crucial linkage of the country's food security network. Though PDS has run into a spate of troubles. -Leakages and Diversions: The majority of foodgrains reach no beneficiary destination. It all gets leaked out, and diverted at multiple corruptive delivery and distribution stages.Read more
PDS, in India is a crucial linkage of the country’s food security network. Though PDS has run into a spate of troubles.
-Leakages and Diversions: The majority of foodgrains reach no beneficiary destination. It all gets leaked out, and diverted at multiple corruptive delivery and distribution stages.
-Targeting Errors: This again brings many households ineligible on inclusion error where really needy households remain out of PDS list.
-Bottlenecks in the Supply Chain: Transportation delays, lack of proper storage facilities, and lack of proper stock management result in losses and delay service delivery.
-Lack of Transparancy and Accountability: Limited access to information and grievance redressal mechanisms are weak to monitor the performance properly.
Less Choices: PDS largely relies on staple grains, ignoring the nutritional requirements of the client groups.
For more transparency and efficiency
-Digitization: All records are digitized, including ration cards, beneficiary data and the movement of stock, to improve monitoring and reduce leakages.
-Biometric Authentication: Biometric systems, such as Aadhaar, should be used for the authentication of beneficiaries to prevent fraudulent withdrawals.
Real-time Tracking: Implement GPS-based tracking of foodgrain transportation to monitor movement for efficient delivery.
Strengthen Grievance Redressal: There needs to be proper grievance redressal mechanisms to attend to beneficiary complaints but with accountability.
– Regular Audits: Carry out regular, independent audits that point out irregularities in the system.
Diversify Food Offerings: Enhance the offerings under PDS by incorporating pulses, millets, and fortified foods for nutrition.
See lessWhat is Integrated Farming System? How is it helpful to small and marginal farmers in India? (250 words) [UPSC 2022]
It is an integrated farm system that deals with a unit of a farm, integrating diverse farming practices within it. Usually, crop production is combined with livestock production on the same unit such as poultry, dairy, piggery, aquaculture, and agroforestry (tree cultivation). Benefits for small andRead more
It is an integrated farm system that deals with a unit of a farm, integrating diverse farming practices within it. Usually, crop production is combined with livestock production on the same unit such as poultry, dairy, piggery, aquaculture, and agroforestry (tree cultivation).
Benefits for small and marginal farmers in India
Income diversification : IFS allows multiple sources of income and diversifies income; hence, not dependent on single crops, thereby raising overall profitability.
-Resource Efficiency: Animal waste is applied as manure to crops thereby reducing the dependence on external inputs. Water usage is optimized throughout the different parts.
-Improved Soil Health: Legumes and cover crops contribute to soil fertility; hence, lesser chemical fertilizers are required.
-Risk Mitigation: The crop failure because of weather or pests is minimized with diversification.
-Enhanced Food Security: It provides the farmer’s family with a well-balanced diet, and it could also be offered to the local community.
Environmental Sustainability: It supports organic farming, which is also sustainable and decreases the environmental footprint of agriculture.
See lessIndia's defence exports play a crucial role in strengthening its global standing. Discuss the significance of defence exports for India. What steps has the government taken to promote and enhance defence exports?( 200 Words)
Model Answer Significance of Defence Exports for India India's defence exports have reached a record Rs. 21,083 crores in the Financial Year (FY) 2023-24, marking a 32.5% growth over the previous year. This growth has a multi-faceted impact on India's global standing: Diplomatic Leverage and StrategRead more
Model Answer
Significance of Defence Exports for India
India’s defence exports have reached a record Rs. 21,083 crores in the Financial Year (FY) 2023-24, marking a 32.5% growth over the previous year. This growth has a multi-faceted impact on India’s global standing:
Steps Taken by the Government to Promote Defence Exports
The Indian government has taken several significant measures to boost defence exports:
Through these steps, India is strengthening its position as a global defence exporter, enhancing both its strategic influence and economic stability.
See lessIndia is on the brink of a major transformation in its energy sector, with plans to significantly increase the nation's energy capacity. What factors contribute to making this transformation both sustainable and inclusive? ( 200 Words)
Model Answer Introduction India's energy sector is undergoing a significant transformation aimed at increasing its energy capacity, with a strong focus on sustainability and inclusivity. Several key factors contribute to this transformation: Sustainability of India’s Energy Transformation RenewableRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
India’s energy sector is undergoing a significant transformation aimed at increasing its energy capacity, with a strong focus on sustainability and inclusivity. Several key factors contribute to this transformation:
Sustainability of India’s Energy Transformation
India’s commitment to renewable energy is at the core of its sustainable energy transformation. From 2014 to 2023, India’s cumulative renewable energy capacity surged from 35 GW to 174.53 GW, with a target of 500 GW by 2030. This growth highlights India’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and meeting global climate goals.
Energy efficiency is crucial for sustainability. The National Mission for Enhanced Energy Efficiency (NMEEE) promotes energy-efficient practices across sectors, reducing energy consumption while meeting growing demands.
India is investing heavily in innovative energy solutions. For example, the Green Hydrogen Mission aims to develop green hydrogen as a clean energy storage solution, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and enhancing energy security.
Inclusivity of India’s Energy Transformation
India’s energy transformation is also gender-inclusive, with policies addressing women’s unique needs. The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, which provides LPG connections to women, reduces health risks associated with traditional biomass fuels, empowering women and improving their quality of life.
Ensuring equitable access to energy is vital for poverty alleviation. The Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana (Saubhagya) aims to achieve universal household electrification, ensuring that no household is left behind in the energy transition.
Local communities are engaged through initiatives like the PM-Kusum scheme, which provides subsidies for solar irrigation pumps, and the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, which supports residential rooftop solar panel installation, creating grassroots participation in the energy transformation.
Conclusion
While India’s energy transformation is both sustainable and inclusive, challenges like high transmission losses and financing remain. However, continued policy commitment and investment are crucial for achieving long-term success.
See lessHow can the expansion of existing airports and the development of new airports in India offer benefits that go beyond enhancing travel connectivity? Discuss. ( 200 Words)
Model Answer Introduction The expansion of existing airports and development of new ones in India can provide numerous advantages beyond just enhancing travel connectivity. Here are the key benefits: 1. Employment Opportunities Expanding airport infrastructure leads to a significant increase in emplRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
The expansion of existing airports and development of new ones in India can provide numerous advantages beyond just enhancing travel connectivity. Here are the key benefits:
1. Employment Opportunities
Expanding airport infrastructure leads to a significant increase in employment across various sectors. This includes direct jobs in aviation, ground staff, engineering, and managerial positions. The air transport sector supports 6.2 million jobs in India, with 2.5 lakh jobs in aviation and aeronautical manufacturing alone.
2. Economic Growth
The aviation sector plays a pivotal role in driving economic growth. By facilitating trade, tourism, and attracting investments, airports contribute significantly to GDP. According to the International Air Transport Association, the air transport industry supports an estimated US $13 billion in India’s GDP.
3. Technological Advancements
Airport expansions often involve the integration of advanced technologies that improve efficiency, safety, and the passenger experience. A notable example is the introduction of DIGIYATRA in 13 Indian airports, which has streamlined the boarding process for passengers.
4. Support for Remote Communities
Airports in remote areas provide vital services, including healthcare access and postal services. The UDAN 5.1 scheme, for instance, plans to enhance connectivity to remote regions, including through helicopter services, improving the quality of life for residents.
5. Attraction of Foreign Tourists and Investment
Airports make regions more attractive for multinational companies and foreign tourists, thus fostering foreign direct investment (FDI). In 2022, international visitors spent USD 22.9 billion in India, showcasing the positive impact of improved connectivity on tourism and investment.
6. Social Integration
Improved air connectivity promotes social integration by making travel more accessible, facilitating cultural exchange, and enhancing mutual understanding among different regions of the country.
7. Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief
Airports play a crucial role in rapid disaster response by enabling the swift deployment of humanitarian aid and emergency personnel during natural disasters.
In conclusion, airport expansion in India not only enhances connectivity but also supports employment, economic growth, technological innovation, social integration, and disaster relief efforts. However, it is essential to focus on affordability, as air travel remains out of reach for many citizens.
See lessHow do Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) contribute to the storage and marketing of agricultural produce in India? Discuss the importance of the newly introduced 'World's Largest Grain Storage Plan in the Cooperative Sector.' ( 200 Words)
Model Answer Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) are grassroots-level cooperative institutions in India that play a vital role in the rural credit system. With over 100,000 PACS serving more than 130 million farmers, they significantly contribute to the storage and marketing of agriculturalRead more
Model Answer
Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) are grassroots-level cooperative institutions in India that play a vital role in the rural credit system. With over 100,000 PACS serving more than 130 million farmers, they significantly contribute to the storage and marketing of agricultural produce.
Importance of the ‘World’s Largest Grain Storage Plan in the Cooperative Sector’
The “World’s Largest Grain Storage Plan in Cooperative Sector” is an initiative aimed at transforming the storage and marketing infrastructure for agricultural produce in India.
This plan represents a significant step in decentralizing grain storage in India and promoting a ‘whole-of-Government’ approach to food security and agricultural development.
See lessWhat are the reasons behind the uneven shift towards water-intensive cropping patterns in India? Discuss the measures that can be adopted to promote a sustainable water-efficient cropping pattern.( 200 Words)
Model Answer Price Support Mechanisms: The government’s price support mechanisms, such as Minimum Support Price (MSP), predominantly favor water-intensive crops like rice, wheat, and sugarcane. Despite MSP being announced for 23 crops, effective support is primarily provided for these three, drivingRead more
Model Answer
Price Support Mechanisms: The government’s price support mechanisms, such as Minimum Support Price (MSP), predominantly favor water-intensive crops like rice, wheat, and sugarcane. Despite MSP being announced for 23 crops, effective support is primarily provided for these three, driving their extensive cultivation. This policy has led to an overemphasis on water-intensive crops.
Increasing Demand: The demand for crops like sugar has increased due to their link with ethanol production, co-generated electricity, and by-products like bio-CNG and molasses. In regions like Karnataka and Maharashtra, the area under sugarcane cultivation has nearly doubled in the last 6-7 years, further contributing to water-intensive cropping.
Input Subsidies and Irrigation Infrastructure: Subsidies on water, electricity, and fertilizers, combined with enhanced irrigation infrastructure, incentivize farmers to grow water-intensive crops. States like Punjab rely heavily on irrigation for crops like paddy, whereas states with sufficient rainfall like Assam and Bihar lack similar incentives.
Impact of the Green Revolution: The Green Revolution introduced high-yielding varieties (HYVs) of rice and wheat, which, although more productive, require large amounts of water. This has cemented the dominance of these crops in India.
Measures for Promoting Sustainable Water-Efficient Cropping Patterns
Promotion of Diversified Agriculture: The government can incentivize the cultivation of less water-intensive, drought-resistant crops like millets and pulses by offering enhanced MSP and support schemes. This would help reduce the over-reliance on water-guzzling crops.
Innovation and Technology: Implementing advanced water management technologies, such as drip irrigation, can optimize water usage. Maharashtra’s mandate for drip irrigation in sugarcane cultivation is a notable example of saving water while maintaining productivity.
Educational Programs and Community Engagement: Workshops and extension services should be organized to educate farmers on the benefits of crop diversification and sustainable water practices.
Infrastructure Development: Investing in infrastructure for storage, processing, and marketing of less water-intensive crops like fruits and vegetables is essential. Establishing cold storage and processing units can provide economic incentives for farmers to shift to these crops.
Enhanced Research and Development: Focused research on developing water-efficient crop varieties suited to local climates can help reduce dependency on traditional, water-intensive crops.
By implementing these measures, India can achieve a more sustainable water-use cropping pattern, crucial for long-term agricultural and environmental sustainability.
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