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Indian Express
2 days ago
- Business
- Indian Express
Mains answer practice — GS 3 : Questions on Women-led MSMEs and green energy (Week 109)
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 June 2025. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at How has India's energy production evolved between 2013 and 2023? Identify the primary causes of the improvement and discuss why green energy productivity growth may be decreasing. Examine the problems that women entrepreneurs confront in India's MSME sector. How might policies be tailored to provide comprehensive support rather than piecemeal assistance? 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 India's energy production evolved between 2013 and 2023? Identify the primary causes of the improvement and discuss why green energy productivity growth may be decreasing. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — As India seeks to become the world's fourth-largest economy by 2025, it is critical to maintain strong economic growth while reducing carbon emissions. — By 2030, India hopes to have non-fossil energy sources account for 50% of its installed power capacity. Wind and solar energy capability India ranks fourth and fifth internationally in wind and solar power capacity, respectively. In 2022-23, renewables will account for more than 20% of the energy mix, up from 17% in 2013-14. — India's rapid economic expansion is energy-intensive, with energy consumption rising by more than 40% over the past decade, from 379 exajoules (EJ) in 2013 to 531 EJ in 2023. Energy-related carbon dioxide emissions increased by 5.3% in 2024, three times the global rise of 0.8% in the same year (IEA Global Energy Review, 2025). India's electricity sector alone is responsible for half of all energy-related emissions. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: Decrease in green energy productivity — According to the MOSPI (Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation) National Accounts Statistics and MOSPI Energy Balance, between 2013 and 2023, India's gross output increased by 79%, final energy use increased by 40%, electricity consumption increased by 70%, and green electricity from wind, solar, biomass, and cogeneration bagasse (excluding hydro and nuclear) increased by 267%. This highlights three trends: energy usage remains linked to growth, electricity demand may soon outstrip GDP, and green electricity, while slowing, will continue to expand faster than overall energy use, helping to reduce emissions that would otherwise increase. — India's energy productivity increased by 28% between 2013 and 2023, which might be attributed to one or more of three factors: higher economic activity, changes in the structure of the economy, and improved energy efficiency. — Steel, cement, and chemicals industries improved because to plans like Perform, Achieve, and Trade (PAT), but transportation and agriculture declined. Because of this unequal development, green energy growth has yet to convert into higher overall energy productivity as green energy expands fast. Conclusion: — Sustainable economic growth necessitates cleaner energy consumption while simultaneously posing the problem of efficiently using energy to grow. India's energy sector is still developing, with efficiency gains inconsistent and lacking a clear trend. — The results have policy implications for India's energy and economic policymakers. One, growing non-fossil energy sources is not enough; they must be used efficiently. Increasing green capacity is not sufficient. Policy must prioritise increasing the productivity of green energy through better grid integration, technology updates, and targeted incentives. — Energy productivity must be adopted as a crucial indicator: rather than focussing merely on capacity expansion or total consumption, energy productivity provides a more accurate lens for aligning energy policy with economic goals. Although India has achieved great progress in energy efficiency, diminishing green energy productivity presents a new problem. (Source: Sustainable economic growth demands cleaner energy use but also poses a challenge of efficiently using energy to grow) Points to Ponder Read more about renewable energy Read about fossil energy sources Related Previous Year Questions What is the status of digitalization in the Indian economy? Examine the problems faced in this regard and suggest improvements. (2023) Do you think India will meet 50 percent of its energy needs from renewable energy by 2030? Justify your answer. How will the shift of subsidies from fossil fuels to renewables help achieve the above objective? Explain. (2022) QUESTION 2: Examine the problems that women entrepreneurs confront in India's MSME sector. How might policies be tailored to provide comprehensive support rather than piecemeal assistance? Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — Women-led MSMEs (WMSMEs) are about more than just female empowerment and mainstreaming. It is also important for families, communities, and the local economy. — According to the Economic Survey 2024-25, women own only 22% of India's MSMEs. A considerable proportion of these businesses are micro-enterprises, which are primarily single-person operations with a high concentration in low-margin, informal, and traditional industries such as tailoring, food processing, and handcrafts. Despite accounting for over half of the population, India has an alarmingly low proportion of women-led businesses. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — There is a lot of excitement in India about capitalising on the demographic dividend, which might drive economic growth and promote the country's transition to a high-income status. This primarily relates to realising the potential of India's young. However, there is another untapped Indian group that has the potential to significantly boost India's GDP: women. — According to studies, women reinvest up to 90% of their income into their families, compared to 30-40% for males. This translates into improved nutrition, education, and health outcomes for children, as well as a stronger society and more resilient economy. — Women MSMEs are more likely to recruit other women, so reducing gender imbalances in the labour market and fostering innovation in underserved industries such as bio-economy, eco-tourism, arts and crafts, food processing, and so on. Many of these WMSMEs operate in rural and neglected areas, meeting critical local needs and bridging the urban-rural gap. Thus, unleashing the potential of women-led MSMEs is more than just an inclusion issue; it is a national economic imperative. — The MSME sector is the backbone of the Indian economy, accounting for 30% of GDP and employing more than 20 crore people. It is also one of the few sectors of the economy where women's participation is relatively high. However, women-led businesses struggle to obtain official finance, market connections, or even basic recognition. Less than 10% of female entrepreneurs use formal loan facilities, while the rest continue to rely on personal savings or informal channels to keep their firms running. This is despite evidence showing that women-led enterprises have high repayment rates, low default rates, and significant job creation potential. — In rural India, where women already lead collective action through self-help groups (SHGs), the potential is much greater. However, financing models, policies, and corporate support systems have not kept pace with their ambitions. Most women do not have collateral, official business records, or credit scores, which are the basic requirements for formal lending. — While various entrepreneurship programs exist (RSETI, SVEP, PM Vishwakarma, and PMEGP), these efforts are frequently gender-blind and operate in silos, focussing solely on inputs such as training or one-time investment. — However, over the last decade, various new programmes and models have arisen that try to establish entire support ecosystems around women entrepreneurs rather than just addressing one aspect of the problem. SHGs and community enterprise models continue to drive a quiet revolution in rural India. Conclusion: — Digital innovation is also altering the rules. Platforms such as the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) enable women to contact clients beyond the usual limits of retail infrastructure. Mann Deshi and Rang De are pioneers in women-friendly banking models, providing tech platforms that not only lend but also train, coach, and connect women-led businesses to the market. — Women-led businesses have high social and economic benefits, and CSR may help de-risk early-stage investments and create a supportive entrepreneurship ecosystem for female entrepreneurs. (Source: Women-led MSMEs are the key to 'Viksit Bharat') Points to Ponder Read about MSME classification Read Economic Survey 2024-25 Related Previous Year Questions Faster economic growth requires increased share of the manufacturing sector in GDP, particularly of MSMEs. Comment on the present policies of the Government in this regard (2023) 'Industrial growth rate has lagged behind in the overall growth of Gross-Domestic-Product (GDP) in the post-reform period' Give reasons. How far the recent changes in Industrial Policy are capable of increasing the industrial growth rate? (2017) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 3 (Week 108) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 3 (Week 107) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 2 (Week 108) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 2 (Week 107) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 1 (Week 108) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 1 (Week 107) 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
24-06-2025
- General
- Indian Express
Mains answer practice — GS 3 : Questions on hydrological cycle and Green India Mission (Week 108)
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 June 2025. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at Examine how rising global temperatures are intensifying the hydrological cycle, contributing to both extreme rainfall events and drought situations. Discuss the need for a shift from large-scale monoculture afforestation to diverse ecosystem restoration under the Green India Mission. 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 how rising global temperatures are intensifying the hydrological cycle, contributing to both extreme rainfall events and drought situations. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — Climate change is 'wreaking havoc' on the Earth's water cycle, changing how water travels between the ground, oceans, and atmosphere, according to a new analysis. This has resulted in catastrophic precipitation, ferocious floods, and droughts, affecting billions of people worldwide by 2024. — The researchers conducted their analysis using data from ground stations and satellites to get water variables such as soil moisture and rainfall. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: What is the water cycle? — The water cycle is the continuous movement of water in all of its phases—solid, liquid, and gas—on the ground, within the ground, and in the atmosphere. The majority of water moves around the world as a result of solar radiation and temperature fluctuations. For example, water on the ground or in bodies of water escapes into the atmosphere as water vapour through a process known as evaporation. Plants absorb water from the soil and release it as water vapour through a process called transpiration. — Water vapour condenses into clouds and then falls as rain or snow. Precipitation enters ice caps, oceans, lakes, rivers, and glaciers, where it can be absorbed by plants or seep deeper into the ground. Following this, the water cycle restarts. — The water cycle is critical because it not only ensures the supply of water for all living organisms but also regulates weather patterns on the planet. For example, the rate and distribution of water cycling through the planets influence the frequency, intensity, and distribution of precipitation. How is climate change impacting the water cycle? — The water cycle comprises water evaporating from the land and sea before returning to the Earth as rain or snow. Climate warming has accelerated this cycle; as air temperatures rise, more water evaporates into the atmosphere. Warmer air can store more water vapour; for every 1°C increase in average temperature, the atmosphere can hold approximately 7% more moisture. This makes storms more dangerous by increasing precipitation intensity, length, and/or frequency, resulting in severe flooding around the planet. — Some areas are seeing more frequent and strong storms, while others are suffering dry air and drought. Soils dry out when temperatures rise and evaporation increases. When it rains, the majority of the water rushes off the hard ground and into rivers and streams, leaving the soil dry. As a result, more water evaporates from the land, increasing the danger of drought. Conclusion: — The new analysis outlined important parts of the water cycle in 2024, the warmest year on record, with average world temperatures rising 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. The report revealed that: (i) In 2024, water-related disasters killed over 8,700 people, displaced 40 million people, and resulted in global economic damages of over $550 billion. (ii) Drought conditions in northern South America, southern Africa, and parts of Asia may intensify by 2025. Wetter regions, such as the Sahel and Europe, may face greater flood risk. (iii) Rainfall records are being broken with increasing frequency. For example, monthly rainfall records were broken 27% more frequently in 2024 than in 2000, while daily rainfall records were broken 52% more frequently. (Source: Extreme rainfall, ferocious floods: How climate change is affecting Earth's water cycle) Points to Ponder Read about other cycles – carbon, sulphur, etc. Link between climate change and hydrological cycle Related Previous Year Questions The world is facing an acute shortage of clean and safe freshwater. What are the alternative technologies which can solve this crisis? Briefly discuss any three such technologies citing their key merits and demerits. (2024) 'Climate change' is a global problem. How India will be affected by climate change? How Himalayan and coastal states of India will be affected by climate change? (2017) QUESTION 2: Discuss the need for a shift from large-scale monoculture afforestation to diverse ecosystem restoration under the Green India Mission. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — The National Mission for a Green India, often known as the Green India Mission (GIM), is one of eight Missions established under the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC). — It was launched in February 2014 with the goal of protecting our country's biological resources and associated livelihoods from the threat of adverse climate change, as well as recognising the critical role of forestry in ecological sustainability, biodiversity conservation, and food, water, and livelihood security. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — The Western Ghats, Aravalli range, and Himalayan region face a variety of issues, including deforestation, human-wildlife conflicts, and shifting rainfall patterns. — Infrastructure development and unregulated tourism have increased their vulnerabilities. Last year's disastrous landslip in Wayanad demonstrated how the area has become disaster-prone due to a lack of green cover and irregular rainfall. — The new GIM paper also states that the Western Ghats environment has deteriorated due to tree removal and unlawful mining. Similarly, multiple studies have found that the destruction of huge portions of the Aravalli ecosystem, particularly its hills, has brought the Thar Desert closer to the National Capital Region, exacerbating the area's pollution problem. — The restoration of most ecological hotspots in the country has become entangled in the environment-development dichotomy. In 2011, environmentalist Madhav Gadgil convened a panel that emphasised the importance of regulating development activities throughout the Western Ghats' 1,60,000 square kilometres. Its recommendations were received with opposition from across the political spectrum. The recommendations of the K Kasturirangan panel have likewise remained on paper. Similarly, illegal quarrying in the Aravalli range has continued despite many Supreme Court rulings, including one dated May 29. The difficulty is that green programs have rarely included individuals. The goal for the reformed GIM will be to develop solutions to sustain and improve people's livelihoods while also boosting environmental security. Conclusion: — This project should be linked with another GIM concern that has largely gone unaddressed: developing income-generating options for those who rely on these ecosystems. — The Mission's goals include increasing carbon sinks in sustainably managed forests and other ecosystems, adapting fragile species/ecosystems to changing climates, and adapting forest-dependent communities. — GIM also seeks convergence with complementing schemes and programmes to improve cooperation in developing forests and their peripheral areas in a holistic and sustainable manner, which is essential to solve the difficulties confronting the environment, forest, and wildlife sectors. (Source: Revamped Green India Mission: A matter of vulnerable ecosystems and livelihoods, Points to Ponder Read more about Green India Mission Read about Western Ghats and Aravali ranges Related Previous Year Questions The adoption of electric vehicles is rapidly growing worldwide. How do electric vehicles contribute to reducing carbon emissions and what are the key benefits they offer compared to traditional combustion engine vehicles? (2023) How does biodiversity vary in India? How is the Biological Diversity Act, 2002 helpful in conservation of flora and fauna? (2018) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 3 (Week 106) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 3 (Week 107) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 2 (Week 106) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 2 (Week 107) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 1 (Week 106) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 1 (Week 107) 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
17-06-2025
- Politics
- Indian Express
Mains answer practice — GS 3 : Questions on Bonn Climate Change Conference and identification and deportation of illegal immigrants (Week 107)
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 technology is transforming the identification and deportation of illegal immigrants, assessing both its benefits and limitations. The Bonn Climate Change Conference serves as a crucial mid-year platform under the UNFCCC process. Discuss its role in shaping the Global Goal on Adaptation (GGA) and climate finance frameworks ahead of COP30. 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 technology is transforming the identification and deportation of illegal immigrants, assessing both its benefits and limitations. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — Since Operation Sindoor began on May 7, Indian officials have 'pushed back' about 2,500 alleged illegal Bangladeshi immigrants across the international border. — The government has not only set a 30-day deadline for verifying illegal immigration, but identified persons are currently being carried from various states to border outposts by Indian Air Force aircraft. — This has, however, aroused concerns about due process, humanitarian difficulties, and pending litigation, particularly allegations of persons being abandoned in the no-man's land between India and Bangladesh. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — Migration between what is now Bangladesh and India dates back to British times. The colonial administration encouraged settlement in the then sparsely populated Assam by bringing in labourers from Bengal and North India. — Following partition, millions of East Pakistan refugees, predominantly Hindus, migrated to India. During Pakistan's violent crackdown on Bengalis, over 10 million people, predominantly Hindus, sought asylum in India in 1971 alone. — This inflow has resulted in major socio political turmoil, particularly in Assam. While the India-Bangladesh border is largely walled now, gaps remain and illegal migration continues, with Bangladeshi labourers noticeable in metropolitan labour markets across India. — There is currently no official or commonly accepted figure for the number of undocumented Bangladeshi immigrants in India, and estimates vary greatly. The government has also pursued a more tech-driven approach to the problem: — It developed the portal to collect biographic and biometric information from Rohingya immigrants. This was eventually expanded to cover Bangladeshi migrants as well. — In 2023, the government redesigned this webpage as the Foreigners Identification webpage (FIP) to record more thorough profiles of suspected illegal immigrants. States/UTs and the Ministry of External Affairs now have access to the portal, which is used to upload and verify information about suspected illegal immigrants. If verification fails, expulsion is initiated with assistance from the Foreigners' Regional Registration Offices (FRROs). — In 2023, the government also launched a District Police Module on the Immigration Visa Foreigner Registration Tracking (IVFRT) portal to track overstaying foreigners. — Biometric capture technology, including fingerprint scanners, cameras, and computers, has been installed throughout the BSF's police stations, detention centres, and Border Outposts. Conclusion: — Currently, states including Gujarat, Delhi, Assam, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan are gathering up and transporting detected illegal immigrants to Assam, Tripura, and Meghalaya border points. They are then 'pushed back' across the border by the Border Security Force (BSF). — However, the current effort represents a more organised, digitised approach to the issue of illegal migration. With biometric data now on the FIP, the government aims to check re-entry. (Source: How latest drive to deport illegal Bangladeshi immigrants stands out) Points to Ponder Read about places in news in India and Bangladesh Read about trade between India and Bangladesh Related Previous Year Questions India has a long and troubled border with China and Pakistan fraught with contentious issues. Examine the conflicting issues and security challenges along the border. Also give out the development Programme (BADP) and Border Infrastructure and Management (BM) Scheme. (2024) What are the internal security challenges being faced by India? Give out the role of Central Intelligence and Investigative Agencies tasked to counter such threats. (2023) QUESTION 2: The Bonn Climate Change Conference serves as a crucial mid-year platform under the UNFCCC process. Discuss its role in shaping the Global Goal on Adaptation (GGA) and climate finance frameworks ahead of COP30. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — The Bonn Climate Change Conference is an annual mid-year gathering held under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), an international accord adopted in 1992 that serves as a foundation for climate negotiations. — The conference is officially called the Sessions of the UNFCCC Subsidiary Bodies (SBs). It is the UNFCCC's sole regular climate conference, in addition to the annual Conference of the Parties (COP). Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — It is attended by members of SBs, which are committees that support the UNFCCC's governing bodies in executing and assessing climate change accords. Indigenous representatives, international groups, scientists, and representatives from civil society all attend the summit. — The meeting is held to examine technical and scientific aspects of climate discussions, as well as to determine the agenda for the COP, which typically occurs in November. — The Bonn Climate Conference is also where the implementation of agreements reached at the previous COP is discussed. — One of the main topics of discussion will be the Global objective on Adaptation (GGA), which is an attempt to create a shared global objective on adaptation, similar to how maintaining temperatures below the 1.5°C threshold is a global goal on mitigation. — Although the GGA was established in the Paris Agreement in 2015, no major breakthrough occurred until COP28 in Dubai, when parties agreed on a framework for outlining global adaptation goals. Conclusion: — The meeting is led by the SBs of the UNFCCC. There are two permanent SBs of the UNFCCC, the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA). — SBI assists the UNFCCC governing bodies in the assessment and review of the implementation of their decisions, while SBSTA advises the governing bodies on scientific knowledge related to climate change. (Source: Bonn Climate Change Conference begins: Everything you need to know) Points to Ponder Read more about Bonn Climate Conference Read more about COP Related Previous Year Questions The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has predicted a global sea level rise of about one metre by AD 2100. What would be its impact in India and the other countries in the Indian Ocean region? (2023) Explain the purpose of the Green Grid Initiative launched at World Leaders Summit of the COP26 UN Climate Change Conference in Glasgow in November, 2021. When was this idea first floated in the International Solar Alliance (ISA)? (2021) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 3 (Week 106) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 3 (Week 105) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 2 (Week 106) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 2 (Week 105) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 1 (Week 106) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 1 (Week 105) 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
10-06-2025
- General
- Indian Express
Mains answer practice — GS 3 : Questions on climate change-induced glacier retreat and air pollution crisis (Week 106)
UPSC Essentials brings to you its initiative for the practice of Mains answer writing. It covers essential topics of static and dynamic parts of the UPSC Civil Services syllabus covered under various GS papers. This answer-writing practice is designed to help you as a value addition to your UPSC CSE Mains. Attempt today's answer writing on questions related to topics of GS-3 to check your progress. 🚨 Click Here to read the UPSC Essentials magazine for May 2025. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at The persistent air pollution crisis underscores the need for effective air quality monitoring and dust control measures. Critically analyse the shortcomings in the current air quality monitoring infrastructure and dust mitigation strategies. Critically analyse how climate change-induced glacier retreat in the Himalayas is exacerbating the risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs), and suggest mitigation strategies at the community and policy levels. Introduction — The introduction of the answer is essential and should be restricted to 3-5 lines. Remember, a one-liner is not a standard introduction. — It may consist of basic information by giving some definitions from the trusted source and authentic facts. Body — It is the central part of the answer and one should understand the demand of the question to provide rich content. — The answer must be preferably written as a mix of points and short paragraphs rather than using long paragraphs or just points. — Using facts from authentic government sources makes your answer more comprehensive. Analysis is important based on the demand of the question, but do not over analyse. — Underlining keywords gives you an edge over other candidates and enhances presentation of the answer. — Using flowcharts/tree-diagram in the answers saves much time and boosts your score. However, it should be used logically and only where it is required. Way forward/ conclusion — The ending of the answer should be on a positive note and it should have a forward-looking approach. However, if you feel that an important problem must be highlighted, you may add it in your conclusion. Try not to repeat any point from body or introduction. — You may use the findings of reports or surveys conducted at national and international levels, quotes etc. in your answers. Self Evaluation — It is the most important part of our Mains answer writing practice. UPSC Essentials will provide some guiding points or ideas as a thought process that will help you to evaluate your answers. QUESTION 1: The persistent air pollution crisis underscores the need for effective air quality monitoring and dust control measures. Critically analyse the shortcomings in the current air quality monitoring infrastructure and dust mitigation strategies. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — One of the government's top priorities is to reduce air pollution. It must now design an effective strategy and put words to action. — The locations of air quality monitoring stations in the capital, for example, did not meet the specifications set by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). — According to the non-profit Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air, Delhi had the highest PM 10 (particulate matter smaller than 10 micrometres) levels of any of the 130 cities covered under the Centre's National Clean Air Programme in fiscal year 2024-25. During this time, the average PM 10 concentration in the capital was four to five times that of the WHO's recommendation. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — Delhi had an average annual PM 10 concentration of 206 µg/m3, while Byrinhat and Patna had values of 200 and 180 µg/m3, respectively. — Cities participating in the clean air programme have been assigned a target of reducing inhalable PM 10 particles by up to 40% or meeting national ambient air quality criteria by 2025-26, compared to the 2017 baseline year. The NCAP assesses PM10 reductions on a fiscal year basis. — Managing PM 10 is one of the less problematic components of Delhi's pollution problem. These particles settle faster than smaller PM 2.5 particles, making filtration devices more effective at trapping them. — Road dust accounts for roughly 60% of these bigger pollutants, and basic municipal services can eliminate this threat at the source. According to a study conducted by experts at IIT Delhi, mending potholes, repairing unpaved roads, and removing waste dumps can cut city pollution by 15 to 25%. — Another study conducted by experts at IIT Kanpur found that strategies such as vertically covering construction areas and using water spray and windbreakers to prevent building materials such as sand from dispersing can improve air quality by up to 50%. Conclusion: — NCAP was launched in 2019 and encompasses 131 cities. The goal is to reduce particulate matter pollution by 40% by 2025-26 or achieve National Ambient Air Quality Standards. The 131 communities in 24 states, known as non-attainment cities, were chosen because they failed to fulfil national air quality criteria for five consecutive years between 2011 and 2015. (Source: Delhi's clean air programme should focus first on air quality monitoring, checking dust emissions, Delhi's PM 10 levels highest in FY 2024-25 among cities covered under clean air programme: New analysis) Points to Ponder Harmful effects of PM 10 and PM 2.5 on health? Preventive measures for air pollution Related Previous Year Questions Describe the key points of the revised Global Air Quality Guidelines (AQGs) recently released by the World Health Organisation (WHO). How are these different from its last update in 2005? What changes in India's National Clean Air Programme are required to achieve revised standards? (2021) What are the key features of the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) initiated by the government of India? (2020) QUESTION 2: Critically analyse how climate change-induced glacier retreat in the Himalayas is exacerbating the risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs), and suggest mitigation strategies at the community and policy levels. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — 'The Himalayas are sounding an alarm,' the Union Environment Minister warned during a climate meeting in Kathmandu. 'As a consequence of global warming due to human activity, glaciers are retreating, threatening the future of water security for populations downstream.' — Scientific studies have long demonstrated that climate change is causing Himalayan glaciers to melt at an unprecedented rate, affecting water resources, agriculture, and livelihoods. — Rising temperatures, erratic weather patterns, growing human-wildlife conflict, depleting water sources, and an alarming increase in landslides, floods, heatwaves, forest fires, and droughts are quickly becoming the new normal in the Himalayan region. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — According to a 2019 study published in the peer-reviewed journal Science Advances, 'glaciers across the Himalayas experienced significant ice loss over the past 40 years, with the average rate of ice loss twice as rapid in the 21st century compared to the end of the 20th century.' — Himalayan glaciers are constantly disappearing due to global warming, resulting in the formation of artificial lakes known as GLOFs. When they burst, they cause mayhem. In October 2023, Sikkim's South Lhonak Lake produced a severe flood in the Teesta River region. It completely destroyed the Teesta III hydropower dam and caused extensive damage. — A similar GLOF was behind the 2013 Kedarnath floods, which killed over 6,000 people. Another disaster struck Uttarakhand's Chamoli district in 2021, when an ice-rock avalanche caused flash floods that killed over 200 people and destroyed hydroelectric infrastructure. — Scientists and environmentalists predict that such floods will become more common in India's hill states as glaciers melt faster due to climate change. — According to the South Asia Water Initiative's report Monitoring of Glaciers, Climate, and Runoff in the Hindu Kush-Himalaya Mountains, remote sensing data estimates that Himalayan states such as Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh have approximately 7,500 glacier lakes. Of these, 190 are rated as 'very high' risk of producing a GLOF. Conclusion: Mitigation strategies — Experts say that top-down solutions are failing. 'Multinational consultancies are being brought in to tackle problems that require local understanding, while the knowledge and experience of local communities are being overlooked. This approach must change. — Infrastructure development also needs a major shift. There is no need for the large-scale infrastructure projects; instead, small-scale, sustainable development is the key. — Tourism should be decentralised, focusing on lesser-known destinations rather than building up major hotspots. There is a need to adopt a policy that ties conservation with livelihood generation. (Source: How climate change and rapid development are pushing the Himalayan region to the brink) Points to Ponder Impact of climate change of water bodies in India How climate change affects agriculture? Related Previous Year Questions The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has predicted a global sea level rise of about one metre by AD 2100. What would be its impact in India and the other countries in the Indian Ocean region? (2023) Discuss global warming and mention its effects on the global climate. Explain the control measures to bring down the level of greenhouse gases which cause global warming, in the light of the Kyoto Protocol, 1997. (2022) 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 105) 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
05-06-2025
- 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.
