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Indian Express
12 hours ago
- Politics
- Indian Express
Mains answer practice — GS 2: Questions on India's outreach in reshaping the global discourse of the Global South and NATO (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-2 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 India has sought to position itself as the 'voice' of the Global South through bilateral visits, multilateral forums, and initiatives.' Discuss the effectiveness of India's outreach in reshaping the global discourse of the Global South. In the wake of increased defence spending commitments within NATO, discuss how member nations like Germany are balancing collective security obligations with strategic autonomy. 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: India has sought to position itself as the 'voice' of the Global South through bilateral visits, multilateral forums, and initiatives.' Discuss the effectiveness of India's outreach in reshaping the global discourse of the Global South. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — The Indian Prime Minister will travel to Africa and South America before attending the BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro. — The visit to Ghana will be the first by an Indian Prime Minister in three decades. The summit will evaluate the bilateral relationship and explore how to strengthen it through economic, energy, defence, and development cooperation. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: Effectiveness of India's outreach in reshaping the global discourse of the Global South Ghana — Ghana is one of West Africa's fastest-growing economies; its relationship with India is marked by robust and expanding trade and investment. India is the largest destination for Ghanaian exports; gold accounts for more than 70% of India's imports from Ghana. Trinidad and Tobago — Trinidad and Tobago is home to 40-45% of the Caribbean's Indian diaspora, including Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and President Christine Carla Kangaloo. This will be Modi's first visit to Trinidad and Tobago as Prime Minister, and the first bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister since 1999. Argentina — The meeting will assess ongoing collaboration and discuss strategies to strengthen collaborations in defence, agriculture, mining, oil and gas, and energy, among other areas. The two presidents met before on the fringes of the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro in November 2024. — India and Argentina have made tremendous progress in their bilateral collaboration in the mineral resources sector, particularly in lithium, which is essential to India's shift to green energy. Argentina is a major exporter of sunflower and soybean oil to India. In 2024, India was Argentina's fifth-largest commercial partner and export market. Brazil — The Prime Minister will speak at BRICS about global governance reform, peace and security, multilateralism, responsible AI use, climate action, global health, and other issues. — During the State Visit, the Prime Minister will fly to Brasilia to undertake bilateral discussions with President Lula on strengthening the Strategic Partnership in areas of common interest such as trade, defence, energy, space, technology, agriculture, and healthcare. Brazil is India's most important trading partner in South America. Namibia — Bilateral trade increased from less than $3 million in 2000 to about $600 million today. Indian corporations have made investments in Namibia's mining, manufacturing, diamond processing, and services sectors. — The PM released eight cheetahs from Namibia to Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh in September 2022, marking the world's first intercontinental transfer of a large carnivore species. (Source: Explained: In PM Modi's diplomatic tour, India's outreach to the Global South) Points to Ponder Read about relations between India and African countries Read about BRICS Related Previous Year Questions Do you think that BIMSTEC is a parallel organisation like the SAARC? What are the similarities and dissimilarities between the two? How are Indian foreign policy objectives realized by forming this new organisation? (2022) 'Indian diaspora has a decisive role to play in the politics and economy of America and European Countries'. Comment with examples. (2020) QUESTION 2: In the wake of increased defence spending commitments within NATO, discuss how member nations like Germany are balancing collective security obligations with strategic autonomy. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — NATO struck a historic agreement: member states would increase their collective defence spending commitment to 5% of their individual GDP. — This ambitious new standard represents NATO's recalibrated strategic posture in the face of escalating global challenges. The contribution is divided into two essential domains: 3.5% will assist core defence aligned with NATO Capability Targets, while the remaining 1.5% will improve infrastructure resilience, cyber defence, innovation, and preparedness. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — While several nations, including Spain and Slovakia, have expressed concern about the rapid escalation, Germany has taken the lead by announcing a record increase in military spending. Germany has vowed to increase defence spending to 3.5% of GDP by 2029, up from 2.4% in 2025, marking its most substantial rearmament effort since reunification. — For years, Germany and others fell short of NATO's previous 2% commitment. It did not cross the threshold until 2024. — With rising geopolitical volatility caused by Russia's war in Ukraine, growing Chinese aggressiveness, and Middle Eastern instability, NATO leaders have called for a structural rethink, despite the fact that these issues are not mentioned in the five-paragraph declaration. — Germany's new defence framework outlines a transformational goal. Defence spending is expected to increase from €86 billion in 2025 (2.4 percent of GDP) to roughly €153 billion by 2029 (3.5 percent). These are Germany's largest military allocations in peacetime. — To finance this change, Germany has adopted a number of daring fiscal measures. It has suspended its constitutional 'debt brake,' which previously restricted deficit expenditure, and is requesting an EU exemption under the Stability and Growth Pact to categorise defence spending as extraordinary investment. This permits Germany to borrow more than the standard 1% of GDP limit. — Germany's plan also reflects NATO's broader understanding of security. It will spend heavily on military-relevant infrastructure, such as digital systems, transportation corridors, logistical centres, and dual-use facilities, in accordance with NATO's new 5% framework. Chancellor Friedrich Merz has actively advocated for dual-purpose infrastructure, citing it as critical to national and alliance stability. Conclusion: — Germany's declaration sends a strong signal to both allies and rivals. It responds to NATO's desire for increased burden-sharing and indicates a more robust German posture in Europe and beyond. However, implementation is critical. (Source: As NATO revises defence-spending goals, Germany arms up to position itself as the backbone of European security) Points to Ponder Read about NATO Read about India-Germany relations Read about India-European Union trade Related Previous Year Questions 'The expansion and strengthening of NATO and a stronger US-Europe strategic partnership works well for India.' What is your opinion about this statement? Give reasons and examples to support your answer. (2023) Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) is transforming itself into a trade bloc from a military alliance, in present times Discuss. (2020) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 3 (Week 108) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 3 (Week 109) 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
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
5 days ago
- General
- Indian Express
Mains answer practice — GS 1 : Questions on evolution of yoga and Ken-Betwa River Link Project (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-1 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 The Ken-Betwa River Link Project represents a significant milestone in India's river interlinking initiatives, aimed at addressing water scarcity in drought-prone regions. Discuss its potential benefits and associated ecological and socio-economic challenges. Discuss the evolution of the term 'yoga' in Indian literature—from the Vedas and Upanishads to Patanjali's Yoga Sutra. 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 Ken-Betwa River Link Project represents a significant milestone in India's river interlinking initiatives, aimed at addressing water scarcity in drought-prone regions. Discuss its potential benefits and associated ecological and socio-economic challenges. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — The Ken-Betwa Link Project (KBLP) envisions moving water from the Ken to the Betwa rivers, both of which are tributaries of the Yamuna. — The Ken-Betwa Link Canal will be 221 km long, including a 2-kilometer tunnel. According to the Jal Shakti Ministry, the project will provide yearly irrigation to 10.62 lakh hectares (8.11 lakh ha in MP and 2.51 lakh ha in UP), supply drinking water to about 62 lakh people, and create 103 MW of hydropower and 27 MW of solar power. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — The Ken-Betwa Link Project comprises two phases. Phase I will comprise the construction of the Daudhan Dam complex and its component units, including the Low Level Tunnel, High Level Tunnel, Ken-Betwa Link Canal, and power plants. Phase II will include three components: Lower Orr Dam, Bina Complex Project, and Kotha Barrage. — The notion of joining the Ken and the Betwa received a significant boost in August 2005, when the Centre and the two states signed a tripartite memorandum of understanding for the creation of a detailed project report (DPR). In 2008, the Centre designated the KBLP as a National Project. Later, it was added to the Prime Minister's package for the development of the drought-prone Bundelkhand region. — The project is in Bundelkhand, which includes 13 districts in Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. According to the Jal Shakti Ministry, the project will greatly assist the water-stressed region, particularly the districts of Panna, Tikamgarh, Chhatarpur, Sagar, Damoh, Datia, Vidisha, Shivpuri, and Raisen in Madhya Pradesh, and Banda, Mahoba, Jhansi, and Lalitpur in Uttar Pradesh. — 'It will pave the way for more river interlinking projects to ensure that scarcity of water does not become an inhibitor for development in the country,' according to a press release from the Ministry. Conclusion: — The river-linking project has come under considerable examination for its possible environmental and socioeconomic impact. The project will involve extensive deforestation in the heart of the Panna National Park and Tiger Reserve. — PM Modi recently laid the foundation stone for the Daudhan Dam. Daudhan Dam is 2,031 metres long, with 1,233 metres being earthen and the remaining 798 metres being concrete. The dam's height will be 77 meters. According to the Jal Shakti Ministry, the project will sink around 9,000 hectares of land, affecting ten communities. — It is the first project under the National Perspective Plan for River Interlinking, which was created in 1980. This plan includes 16 projects under its peninsular component, including the KBLP. Aside from this, 14 linkages are envisioned in the Himalayan Rivers Development Plan. (Source: PM Modi lays foundation stone: What is the Ken-Betwa river linking project, environmental concerns around it by Harikishan Sharma and Nikhil Ghanekar) Points to Ponder Other river linking projects in India What are the project's likely environmental and social impacts? Related Previous Year Questions The interlinking of rivers can provide viable solutions to the multi-dimensional inter-related problems of droughts, floods, and interrupted navigation. Critically examine. (2020) The groundwater potential of the Gangetic valley is on a serious decline. How may it affect the food security of India? (2024) QUESTION 2: Discuss the evolution of the term 'yoga' in Indian literature—from the Vedas and Upanishads to Patanjali's Yoga Sutra. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — Yoga originated in ancient India. However, it is impossible to determine exactly how ancient it is. While the term '5,000-year-old tradition' is frequently used, the existing evidence does not support such specificity. — The term 'yoga' appears in the Vedic corpus (1,500-500 BCE), the oldest (surviving) literature from the subcontinent. However, it appears in a setting that is very different from postural or even meditational exercise, as it is commonly understood today. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — Two key pieces of archaeological evidence are often cited as proof of yoga's antiquity. (i) The first is a tiny staetite seal unearthed from Mojenjodaro, an Indus Valley Civilisation (IVC) site in Pakistan. According to historian Alistair Shearer's book The Story Of Yoga: From Ancient India To The Modern West (2020), the seal from around 2,500-2,400 BCE depicts a seated figure with legs crossed in the mulabandhasana posture, which was later popular among tantric yogis. (ii) The other, more recent, archaeological find is from Balathal, Rajasthan, one of the chalcolithic Banas culture's 90 or so sites. A nearly 2,700-year-old skeleton was excavated from the site 'sitting in the samadhi position,' a stance 'that many yogis adopt for meditation and is also assumed at the time of their burial,' according to Shearer. — The Mahabharata, written spanning six centuries from 300 BCE to 300 CE, is where yoga is employed in the way that we know it today. 'Some of these citations [in the Mahabharata] refer to yoga in a philosophical sense,' whilst others employ it 'when describing arduous physical penances and austerities performed by holy men,' according to Shearer. Contemporary and subsequent writings, such as the Upanishads, use the phrase similarly. — According to one school of thought, yoga has no Vedic beginnings and instead derives from heterodox traditions of the first millennium BCE (and earlier), particularly Buddhism and Jainism. 'The unifying feature of this freelance religious movement was the practice of yoga,' Vivian Worthington asserts in A History of Yoga (1982). Yoga is mentioned in a variety of Buddhist and Jain scriptures. — The Yoga Sutra of Maharishi Patanjali is the most well-known text on the subject, having been written around 350 CE and being the oldest text dedicated completely to it. Most experts agree that this literature affected their current knowledge of yoga. Conclusion: — None of the sources listed above provide definitive, empirical answers about the origins of yoga. This is largely due to the fact that India lacks a history-writing tradition like the West, where a clear distinction is made between history, which is founded on empirical data, and myth, whose credibility stems from its meaning rather than its accuracy. — There are no contemporary sources on yoga that can provide empirical information on its origins. While examining textual evidence can provide insights about the changing meaning of the term and the growth of the practice, it cannot definitively pinpoint when yoga originated. (Source: International Yoga Day: Why is it hard to pinpoint the origin of yoga?) Points to Ponder Read more about Yoga Read about Upanishads and Yoga Sutra of Maharishi Patanjali Related Previous Year Questions Underline the changes in the field of society and economy from the Rig Vedic to the Later Vedic period. (2024) Indian philosophy and tradition played a significant role in conceiving and shaping the monuments and their art in India. Discuss. (2020) 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 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
25-06-2025
- Politics
- Indian Express
Mains answer practice — GS 2: Questions on Right to Education and India-Canada relations (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-2 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 Discuss how relying on Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS) to implement fundamental rights, such as the Right to Education (Article 21A), can jeopardise cooperative federalism in India. Examine how India's invitation to the G7 conference in Canada marks a diplomatic reset in India-Canada relations. 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 relying on Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS) to implement fundamental rights, such as the Right to Education (Article 21A), can jeopardise cooperative federalism in India. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS) play an important role in governance. They are Constitutional conditional grants that the Centre unilaterally designs and partially funds, with state governments implementing them. — The disbursement of the Centre's share under the CSS is subject to certain criteria and is governed by a set of procedures and compliance standards. For example, the Ministry of Education's Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan is a comprehensive school education program. It combines three CSS: Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA), Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan (RMSA), and Teacher Education (TE), all of which seek to provide equitable quality school education from pre-school to senior secondary level in India, as well as support for teacher training and system strengthening. The fund-sharing ratio between the Centre and the states (excluding Northeastern states) is 60:40. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — CSS, in the lack of transparency and uniform enforcement, risks becoming a tool of budgetary coercion in the hands of the Centre rather than an instrument to promote cooperative government. This goes against the essence of federalism. — This is because the CSS financial mechanism is not governed by a specific statute, but rather by executive instructions under Article 282 of the Constitution. Article 282 empowers both the Union and the states to make discretionary grants for any 'public purpose' that falls outside of their respective legislative jurisdiction. Although Article 282 was never intended to be a regular channel for fiscal transfers from the Union to the states, over time, numerous 'one-size-fits-all' discretionary schemes have given the Centre influence over subjects outside of its legislative competence. — For example, the Centre has connected the distribution of funding for Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan to the states' compliance of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the PM SHRI Schools program, which Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Kerala oppose. This has suspended admissions for the academic year 2025-26 under the Right to Education Act in Tamil Nadu, demonstrating how CSS, with their stringent criteria and lack of flexibility, can stymie state capability. — When CSS are used as a political tool rather than a policy tool, the fundamental goals of cooperative federalism deteriorate, with the poorest, particularly in this case, children, bearing the brunt of the consequences. The right to education is guaranteed by Article 21A of the Constitution, which declares free and compulsory education a fundamental right for all children aged 6 to 14. However, the fulfilment of the right to education is dependent on cooperative federalism, as education is on the Concurrent list. — When the Right to Education is implemented through various programs, access to fundamental rights becomes subject to political alignments between governments. This undermines both the notion of cooperative federalism and the fundamental right to education. Conclusion: — Because there is no clear constitutional or statutory framework governing the design and implementation of CSS, the ongoing standoff between TN and the Centre provides an important opportunity for the Supreme Court to consider whether certain rights-based entitlements (such as the fundamental right to education) should be protected from coercive tactics used by one level of government against another. — The Constitution prohibits a system in which executive discretion or ideological conformity governs the enforcement of rights that are intended to be universal and inalienable. The current case provides the Supreme Court with a rare chance to answer the above question by reconsidering its interpretation of Article 282 and establishing explicit constitutional boundaries on the use of CSS in order to restore balance in Centre-State relations and ensure that fundamental rights are not negotiable. (Source: Right to education is non-negotiable. It shouldn't depend on Centre-state relations) Points to Ponder Read about Article 21-A Read more about federalism Related Previous Year Questions The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 remains only a legal document without intense sensitisation of government functionaries and citizens regarding disability. Comment. (2022) Analyse the role of local bodies in providing good governance at the local level and bring out the pros and cons of merging rural local bodies with urban local bodies. (2024) QUESTION 2: Examine how India's invitation to the G7 conference in Canada marks a diplomatic reset in India-Canada relations. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — India and Canada have now begun to turn a new page in their bilateral relationship. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Canada for the G7 conference yielded considerable favourable results. — The meeting was a 'foundational' step towards establishing India-Canada relations. Following the conference, Carney openly acknowledged India's 'natural' and 'consistent' role at the G7 table, demonstrating Canada's awareness of India's growing global status and the Carney administration's realistic resolve to fix deteriorating bilateral ties. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — The Prime Minister of Canada underlined India's significance, citing the 'size and dynamism of the Indian economy, Indian technology, and its role in a host of venues, G20 and beyond.' — This recognition is important to India's viewpoint. Carney, a proponent of Canada being an 'energy superpower,' praised India's involvement in the energy revolution. PM Modi reciprocated during the Outreach Session by emphasising the importance of global energy security through sustainable and green pathways. — India's activities include the International Solar Alliance (ISA), the Coalition for Disaster-Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), and the Global Biofuels Alliance. Modi's persistent advocacy for the Global South's concerns at such a high-profile gathering bolstered India's position as their primary voice. — The Indian Prime Minister also restated India's stance on terrorism, urging G7 leaders to galvanise global action and advocating for tough penalties against those who advocate and support it. The discussions also centred on technology and innovation, namely the AI-energy nexus and quantum-related challenges. — Carney's realistic and encouraging description of their encounter as a 'foundation and necessary first step' reflected a common desire to rebuild. PM Modi stated firmly that national security and the fight against terrorism are non-negotiable priorities in India. Conclusion: — The most tangible result is an agreement to re-establish the role of the high commissioners. Their absence had left a visible hole, hampering diplomatic functions and hurting interpersonal and corporate relationships. Restoring these critical diplomatic posts, together with restarting senior and working-level engagements, is more than just a formality; it reflects a clear intent to restore normalcy and important services. — India has regularly supplied proof and requested action against elements on Canadian soil that promote secessionism against India. A relationship based on 'mutual respect' requires Canada to address these basic Indian concerns seriously and with concrete action. (Source: One visit, many openings: At G7, a step forward in India-Canada ties) Points to Ponder Read more about India-Canada relations Read more about G7 Related Previous Year Questions Do you think that BIMSTEC is a parallel organisation like the SAARC? What are the similarities and dissimilarities between the two? How are Indian foreign policy objectives realized by forming this new organisation? (2022) Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) is transforming itself into a trade bloc from a military alliance, in present times Discuss. (2020) 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 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
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.
