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Indian Express
4 days ago
- Politics
- Indian Express
Mains answer practice — GS 2: Questions on G7 and conducting Census 2027 digitally (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-2 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 the benefits and drawbacks of conducting Census 2027 utilising a fully digital enumeration method. What is the G7? What are its key developments? Discuss the strategic significance of inviting India to the 2025 Canada summit. 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 the benefits and drawbacks of conducting Census 2027 utilising a fully digital enumeration method. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — The government has declared that the 16th Census of India will be held in two stages, with reference dates set for March 1, 2027 for most of the country and October 1, 2026 for snow-bound and inaccessible regions such as Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. — This census marks a significant milestone because it will feature the first nationwide caste enumeration since 1931. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: The Census serves multiple critical functions: — It serves as the foundation for the creation of electoral constituencies and the allocation of seats to Scheduled Castes and Tribes. — Central grants to states and districts are frequently population-based, as are subsidies and ration allocations. — Census data is used by ministries ranging from Education to Rural Development to locate schools, basic health care facilities, and infrastructure projects. — It aids the judiciary, planners, and scholars in understanding migration, urbanisation, employment, and fertility patterns. — The Census is also necessary for the execution of constitutional obligations. According to Article 82 of the Constitution, constituencies must be delimited using the most recent Census. Articles 330 and 332 reserve legislative seats for SCs and STs depending on population proportions. How is the 2027 Census proposed to be conducted? — The 2027 Census will be India's first digital census, featuring mobile apps, online self-enumeration, and near-real-time monitoring. It's also the first time since 1931 that caste data would be collected for all communities. — In a notable departure from 2011, the 2027 Census will include self-enumeration for the first time, allowing households to go into a government portal or use an app to fill out their own information. Once self-enumeration is completed, the system generates a unique ID. Individuals who self-enumerated will only need to provide this ID when the Census enumerator comes to their home. — Enumerators would also use mobile devices or smartphones preinstalled with the Census application. While a dual system with paper enumeration is planned, sources say it is predicted that all enumerators will utilise the digital media because cellphones are now ubiquitous and the pay for a digital census is higher. This digitisation is supposed to eliminate errors, speed up processing, and allow for better quality control. Conclusion: — Digital literacy among enumerators is a serious issue. To address this, comprehensive training modules, simulations, and region-specific language interfaces have been developed. The software features intuitive prompts, drop-down options, and offline sync. — Quality control consists of managers evaluating flagged forms and Census officers conducting periodic checks. Errors such as unrealistic age ranges or duplicate entries may be detected and corrected before submission. (Source: Explained: How India conducts its Census — and what is new in 2027) Points to Ponder Read more about Census How digital challenges will be addressed in Census 2027? Related Previous Year Questions What changes has the Union Government recently introduced in the domain of Centre-State relations? Suggest measures to be adopted to build the trust between the Centre and the States and for strengthening federalism. (2024) QUESTION 2: What is the G7? What are its key developments? Discuss the strategic significance of inviting India to the 2025 Canada summit. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — The Group was established as a platform for economic and financial cooperation in response to the 1973 energy crisis. The first Summit of Heads of State and Government was held in 1975 in Rambouillet, France. — The G7 meeting provides a forum for member countries to address their common values and concerns. While the G7's initial focus was on international economic policy, in the 1980s it expanded its mandate to encompass foreign policy and security matters. — Canada is chairing this year's G7 Summit, which will be attended by the leaders of France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Carney has also invited the presidents of non-member countries India, Australia, Brazil, Mexico, South Africa, South Korea, and Ukraine, as well as the head of NATO. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: Key developments — In 1997, the G7 countries agreed to contribute $300 million to efforts to mitigate the effects of the Chernobyl reactor catastrophe. — At the 2002 summit, participants agreed to undertake a coordinated response to combat the threat of AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria. Their efforts resulted in the creation of the Global Fund, an innovative finance vehicle that has disbursed over $45 billion in relief. — The Global Apollo Program was inaugurated during the 2015 G7 conference. The Apollo Program, designed to combat climate change through renewable energy research and development, was established by the United Kingdom but did not gain traction until the other G7 countries decided to finance it. Significance of inviting India to the 2025 Canada summit — India's invitation represents a growing global consensus in a divided international order and goes beyond a mere symbolic gesture. — India's foreign policy approach, which is multi-alignment in principle and strategic autonomy in practice, has become more significant. — India's economy is growing and it has surpassed the UK to become the fifth largest economy, with a GDP of almost $3.7 trillion in 2024. — Canada's invitation to India recognises that without support from nations that reflect the goals of the Global South. Conclusion: — Due to its exclusion of China and India, two of the biggest economies in the world, the G7 has come under fire for being out of date and ineffectual in recent decades. Though others argue against it, citing India's significantly lower GDP per capita in comparison to other states, several think tanks have urged for India to join the organisation. (Source: 5 things to look out for in this year's G7 Summit in Canada, What is the G7?) Points to Ponder Read more about G7 What are the key agendas for 2025 Summit Related Previous Year Questions 'Virus of Conflict is affecting the functioning of the SCO' In the light of the above statement, point out the role of India in mitigating the problems. (2023) '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) 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 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
11-06-2025
- Politics
- Indian Express
Mains answer practice — GS 2: Questions on technological reforms by the ECI and ULLAS scheme (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-2 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 'Technological reforms by the ECI, such as bi‑hourly polling data and automated statistical indexes, will significantly strengthen democratic accountability.' Comment. 'Full literacy now includes digital, financial and entrepreneurial skills' . Critically analyse this in light of national skill development policies. 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: 'Technological reforms by the ECI, such as bi‑hourly polling data and automated statistical indexes, will significantly strengthen democratic accountability.' Comment. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — The Election Commission of India (ECI) is improving its internal systems to guarantee that voter turnout data are disseminated more quickly on election day. — The ECI indicated that it would implement automatic reporting in its new mobile application ECINET in time for the Bihar Assembly elections in November. — Following the Lok Sabha elections last year, the Opposition voiced concerns about the delay in releasing voter turnout data, calling into question the ECI's openness and integrity. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — The ECI now has up to 40 different apps and websites for various internal and public services, including as electoral roll administration, candidate affidavits, voter turnout, and results. The Commission announced the creation of a new app, ECINET, which will incorporate all existing apps. — Currently, the presiding officer of each polling station communicates voter turnout data to a sector officer in charge of a few polling stations, as well as the constituency's Returning Officer, via phone or message. These data are then manually collected, and the constituency's turnout is entered into the Voter Turnout app every two hours. — The new approach will allow each presiding officer to enter turnout data into the ECINET app every two hours. The software will automatically determine the constituency's turnout and display it to the public. — Voter turnout is an ENCORE module that runs on poll day and involves entering data for a two-hourly projected poll % into ENCORE. Citizens and media outlets can monitor voter turnout data with the Voter Turnout app, which is accessible on both Android and iOS platforms. These percentages are pooled in the system to get the district and state poll percentage. — This technology makes it easier to enter data on two-hourly voter turnout and helps to disseminate information in real time. To guarantee that each Constituency receives timely entries, we have created a mechanism at the CEO level to monitor and identify assemblies that have missed data entry deadlines. Conclusion: — Each candidate, however, has the booth-wise turnout figures through Form 17C, which is given to their polling agents at the close of the poll. The Form 17C is a statutory requirement under the Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961. (Source: Why Election Commission is working on releasing voter turnout figures faster, Points to Ponder Read about the Election Commission of India Read about Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961 Related Previous Year Questions Examine the need for electoral reforms as suggested by various committees, with particular reference to the ''One Nation–One Election'' principle. (2024) In the light of recent controversy regarding the use of Electronic Voting Machine (EVM), what are the challenges before the Election Commission of India to ensure the trustworthiness of elections in India? (2018) QUESTION 2: 'Full literacy now includes digital, financial and entrepreneurial skills' . Critically analyse this in light of national skill development policies. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — Mizoram and Goa declared themselves 'fully literate' states last month as part of the ULLAS (Understanding Lifelong Learning for All in Society) literacy initiative for those over the age of 15 who have not attended school. — Mizoram had a literacy rate of 98.2%, whereas Goa's was 99.72%. These states followed Ladakh, the first in the country to declare itself 'fully literate' under the plan in June last year, having 'achieved more than 97% literacy'. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — The Centre launched the ULLAS project (also known as the New India Literacy Programme), which would be implemented from 2022 to 2027. It intends to provide 5 crore 'non-literate individuals' over the age of 15 in the country with foundational literacy and numeracy abilities, such as basic reading, writing, and rudimentary arithmetic taught in primary school. The training materials are also intended to educate 'important life skills' such as financial and digital literacy. — Working with schools and officials, states and union territories conducted door-to-door surveys to identify persons in need of such education. They are then taught by registered volunteers, including schoolchildren, students from higher education and teacher education institutions, and community members. The NCERT created the learning materials, which were then translated into the various states' native languages. Teaching and learning can be done offline or through a mobile app. — The Indian government has been implementing adult literacy programs since the 1950s, and ULLAS is the most recent addition. This includes programs aimed at farmers and women in the 1960s and 1970s, as well as a nationwide program known as the National Adult Education Programme for people aged 15 to 35. For this bracket, the National Literacy Mission was implemented from 1988 to 2009. (To read more: What Mizoram, Goa's 'fully literate' tag under the ULLAS program means) Conclusion: — The Functional Literacy Numeracy Assessment Test (FLNAT) is a 150-mark reading, writing, and numeracy test given to students in a variety of languages. After completing the test, the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) certifies the student as having learnt foundational literacy and numeracy skills. — In August of last year, the Ministry of Education wrote to the states, defining 'literacy' and '100% literacy' for the ULLAS. Literacy has been defined as 'the ability to read, write, and compute with comprehension i.e to identify, understand, interpret and create, along with critical life skills such as digital literacy, financial literacy etc.' (Source: What Mizoram, Goa's 'fully literate' tag under the ULLAS program means) Points to Ponder Read about NCERT Read about literacy rate and census Related Previous Year Questions Can the vicious cycle of gender inequality, poverty and malnutrition be broken through microfinancing of women SHGs? Explain with examples. (2021) Skill development programmes have succeeded in increasing human resources supply to various sectors. In the context of the statement analyse the linkages between education, skill and employment. (2023) 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 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
04-06-2025
- Business
- Indian Express
Mains answer practice — GS 2: Questions on India-Paraguay relations and the role of Lok Sabha Speaker (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-2 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 Examine the possibilities for India-Paraguay relations to strengthen India's engagement with Latin America. Discuss the strategic importance of their partnership in countering terrorism and addressing transnational threats like cybercrime and drug trafficking. Examine the Lok Sabha Speaker's constitutional position, powers, and responsibilities with reference to regulating the Business of the House. 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 the possibilities for India-Paraguay relations to strengthen India's engagement with Latin America. Discuss the strategic importance of their partnership in countering terrorism and addressing transnational threats like cybercrime and drug trafficking. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed Paraguay's President Santiago Peña Palacios, stating that the two countries are 'united in the fight against terrorism' and can work together to combat 'shared challenges' like cybercrime, organised crime, and drug trafficking. — President Peña's State Visit to India marks his first visit and only the second by a Paraguayan president. On June 2, 2025, President Peña paid a visit to India and met with the Prime Minister to discuss bilateral relations. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — India and Paraguay established diplomatic relations on September 13, 1961, fostering warm and friendly connections between the two countries. Both countries have since collaborated in a variety of fields, including trade, agriculture, health, medicines, and information technology. — Paraguay is a significant trade partner for India in the Latin American region. Several Indian companies in the automotive and pharmaceutical sectors have a presence in Paraguay, while certain Paraguayan companies, primarily through joint venture corporations, have a presence in India, contributing to the two countries' economic links. — The two countries have similar views on a variety of international topics, including UN reforms, climate change, renewable energy, and terrorist prevention. — India and Paraguay are unified in their fight against terrorism. There is enormous potential for collaboration in combating common threats such as cybercrime, organised crime, and drug trafficking. Conclusion: — There are new prospects for collaboration in fields such as digital technology, essential minerals, energy, agriculture, healthcare, defence, railways, space, and global economic partnership. — The Prime Minister also mentioned New Delhi's advantageous trade relationship with the South American trading bloc MERCOSUR, which includes Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. (Source: India, Paraguay vow to boost ties; united against terror: PM) Points to Ponder Read more about MERCOSUR Read more about India and South American countries relationship Related Previous Year Questions 'India is an age-old friend of Sri Lanka.' Discuss India's role in the recent crisis in Sri Lanka in the light of the preceding statement. (2022) Terrorism has become a significant threat to global peace and security.' Evaluate the effectiveness of the United Nations Security Council's Counter-Terrorism Committee (CTC) and its associated bodies in addressing and mitigating this threat at the international level. (2024) QUESTION 2: Examine the Lok Sabha Speaker's constitutional position, powers, and responsibilities with reference to regulating the Business of the House. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — The Speaker's Office plays an important role in our parliamentary democracy. — The Speaker's Office has been described as representing the complete authority of the House, whilst members of Parliament represent individual constituencies. — He/she represents the dignity and power of the House over which he/she presides. — The Speaker serves from the date of his/her election until the first sitting of the Lok Sabha following the dissolution of the one to which he/she was elected. He or she is eligible for re-election. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — The Speaker's Chair is prominently positioned in the Lok Sabha Chamber, providing him or her with a commanding view of the whole House. — He/she also benefits from the directions issued by his/her predecessors, which are collated on a regular basis. In addition, the Secretary-General of the Lok Sabha and senior Secretariat staff assist him/her with parliamentary duties, as well as practice and procedure. — In the absence of the Speaker, the Deputy Speaker performs his or her duties. When the Speaker and Deputy Speaker are not present, a member of the Panel of Chairmen preside over the House. Regulating the Business of the House — The Presiding Officer decides if a Question is admissible; he or she also decides what forms amendments to the Motion of Thanks to the President's Address can be moved in. — If a bill is pending in the House, the Speaker determines whether or not to allow modifications to specific parts of the bill. — Under Article 110(3), only the Speaker has the authority to certify that a bill is a money bill. The advantage of this procedure is obvious: the money bill cannot be enacted or rejected by the Rajya Sabha. It can simply make a suggestion that may or may not be adopted by the Lok Sabha, which alone has a final say in the matter. — He/she regulates all topics not specifically covered by the rules, as well as all concerns about how the rules work. — The Speaker also serves on the tribunal that determines cases of MP defection, which can be extremely beneficial to the parties in power. Conclusion: — The Speaker is the head of the Lok Sabha Secretariat, which is completely under his or her supervision and guidance. The Speaker has supreme responsibility over the House's Secretariat staff, precincts, and security measures. (Source: The importance of Om Birla: Why the office of the Speaker matters by P D T Achary, Points to Ponder Read more about functions of speaker of the Lok Sabha Read about history of speaker of Lok Sabha Role of deputy speaker in the Lok Sabha Related Previous Year Questions Discuss the role of Presiding Officers of state legislatures in maintaining order and impartiality in conducting legislative work and in facilitating best democratic practices. (2023) Discuss the role of the Vice-President of India as the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. (2022) 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 103) 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.
Indian Express
28-05-2025
- Politics
- Indian Express
Mains answer practice — GS 2: Questions on caste census in India and Arctic geopolitics (Week 104)
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 May 2025. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at The decision to conduct a caste census in India has reignited debates on the efficacy and scope of affirmative action policies. Critically examine how a caste census can serve as a tool to assess and reinforce affirmative action in India. Assess the effect of the United States' increasing interest in Greenland on Arctic geopolitics. How do territorial ambitions affect the Arctic region's stability and governance? 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 decision to conduct a caste census in India has reignited debates on the efficacy and scope of affirmative action policies. Critically examine how a caste census can serve as a tool to assess and reinforce affirmative action in India. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — The decision by the Centre to include caste in the forthcoming census will have a huge impact on the restructuring of India's reservation system. Reservation disrupts occupational homogeneity. — Part III (Articles 15 and 16) and Part IV (Directive Principles of State Policy) of the Constitution provide opportunities to implement affirmative action. — Caste-based hierarchies and discrimination are common in government and private sector jobs and educational institutions. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: Background — While the Constitution provided for reservations for Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST), the identification of backward classes occurred after the Constituent Assembly. Responding to requests for quota for Other Backward Classes (OBCs), the Congress administration established the First Backward Classes Commission in 1953, chaired by Kaka Kalelkar, to identify 'socially and educationally backward' communities. — The Janata Dal government established the Second Backward Classes Commission, sometimes known as the Mandal Commission, in 1979. It was chaired by B P Mandal. The commission conducted a rigorous survey using social, educational, and economic indices and designated 3,743 castes as backward, recommending reservation in educational institutions and government sector employment. — In Indra Sawhney vs Union of India (1992), the Supreme Court of India affirmed 27% reservation for OBCs but denied 10% reservation for EWS, stating that economic status cannot be the primary factor for reservation in the absence of proof of structural discrimination. — The EWS reservation was established under the 103rd Constitutional Amendment. The Supreme Court also understood the word 'Class' in article 16(4) as 'Social Class,' rather than the economic status-based 'Marxist Class.' Caste census and reservation — The All India Survey on Higher Education (2021-22) study describes how different social classes are represented in India's government and private educational institutions. For example, in public colleges, just about 10.8 percent of instructors come from the SC group, while STs account for only 3.4% and OBCs for 21%. However, the general category accounts for around 49.3% of teachers in public institutions and 60.7% in private universities. In Union and state public institutions, as well as affiliated and constituent colleges, SC instructors account for 9.6%, STs for 2.6%, and OBCs for 34%. — Caste-based concepts are so established that it is extremely difficult for marginalised communities to find work, even if they are highly qualified. Conclusion: — These examples demonstrate that we must impose reserves even in the private sector to combat such limits. A caste-based census provides an opportunity to strengthen the quota system and create a more inclusive society. However, it can also strengthen numerically dominant populations politically, thereby affecting the rights and prospects of numerically non-dominant communities. (Source: Caste census gives us an opportunity to examine and reinforce affirmative action) Points to Ponder Read more details about caste census Read about previous censuses Related Previous Year Questions Discuss the contribution of civil society groups for women's effective and meaningful participation and representation in state legislatures in India. (2023) Whether National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) can enforce the implementation of constitutional reservation for the Scheduled Castes in the religious minority institutions? Examine. (2018) QUESTION 2: Assess the effect of the United States' increasing interest in Greenland on Arctic geopolitics. How do territorial ambitions affect the Arctic region's stability and governance? Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — The Arctic Council is the premier international platform for advancing regional cooperation and governance in the Arctic area. — The forum has eight permanent members: Canada, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Russia, Sweden, the United States, and Denmark (which includes Greenland and the Faroe Islands). — The 14th meeting of the Arctic Council marked the end of Norway's period as chair. Following a challenging period in keeping the Arctic Council running, Norway has given the baton to Denmark as the Council's next head. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — The addition of Finland and Sweden to NATO since the start of the war has worsened tensions within the organisation. Currently, the Arctic Council includes seven NATO member states and Russia. Given Russian concerns about NATO, any chance of the group making any progress is increasingly unlikely. — US President Donald Trump's claim to rule the region of Greenland has muddled matters even more. Since taking office in January 2025, Trump has maintained that American control over Greenland's territory is critical to Washington's national and international security. — Given Russia's desire to find new ways to strengthen collaboration in the Arctic, China has emerged as an important partner. Chinese interests in the Arctic have also increased. In 2014, President Xi Jinping announced China's goal to become a 'Polar Power'. Since then, China has referred to itself as a 'near-Arctic state,' indicating a desire for increased involvement in Arctic matters. — China has no shoreline exposure to the Arctic, and it makes no claim to sovereignty in the region. As a result, Russia-China naval cooperation in the Arctic has added a new strategic dimension to the region's developing geopolitical landscape. — The Arctic Council is dealing with significant issues. Arctic exceptionalism is dying. With competing interests in the region and a lack of efficient governance systems, the Arctic risks quickly becoming a geopolitical flashpoint. Notably, these discoveries will have significant worldwide implications. Conclusion: — Rising sea levels are a problem due to growing climate worries in the Arctic, which is causing ice to melt. The melting of Arctic ice has also created new opportunities for extending trade routes. — The anticipated influx of new stakeholders into the Arctic necessitates a broader redesign of the Arctic governance architecture. The Arctic Council will have to skilfully balance these critical issues. (Source: The Russia-China push in the arctic – a new strategic flashpoint) Points to Ponder Read more about Arctic Council Read about Russia-China cooperation in Arctic region Related Previous Year Questions 'The West is fostering India as an alternative to reduce dependence on China's supply chain and strategically to counter China's political and economic dominance.' Explain this statement with examples. (2024) 'The USA is facing an existential threat in the form of China, that is much more challenging than the erstwhile Soviet Union.' Explain. (2021) 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 102) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 2 (Week 103) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 1 (Week 102) 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.
Indian Express
21-05-2025
- Politics
- Indian Express
Mains answer practice — GS 2: Questions on Jal Jeevan Mission and India-UK Free Trade Agreement (Week 103)
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 May 2025. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at The Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) aims to provide Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTC) to every rural household in India. Despite significant progress in infrastructure, disparities in actual water usage persist. Critically examine. The India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is projected to yield multiple economic benefits for India, including enhanced bilateral trade, integration into global supply chains, and increased foreign investments. Discuss. 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 Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) aims to provide Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTC) to every rural household in India. Despite significant progress in infrastructure, disparities in actual water usage persist. Critically examine. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), the central government's flagship project, is currently suffering serious structural and functional issues. The JJM was established in 2019 with the goal of providing 100 percent functional household tap connections (FHTC) by 2024. — According to the most recent NSSO data, the government has made great headway, with nearly 90% of rural families having access to a tap connection. The government plans to cover the remaining homes by 2028. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — There is a significant difference in tap water access and consumption, with only 39% of rural households using taps as their major source (NSS 79th Round, 2022-23). Furthermore, how tap water is used varies greatly by region. Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Bihar, West Bengal, and Odisha have very low tap usage rates ranging from 6% to 30%. The disparity between tap water access and use suggests that the JJM has significant functioning issues. — Reports reveal a reduction in financial assistance by the central government, bureaucratic irregularities at the state level, and scams in constructing JJM's infrastructure, which has slowed down JJM's progress. Increasing financial burdens, coupled with incomplete infrastructure and a lack of transparency in the provision of the tender, leave JJM with an uncertain future. — Structural issues necessitate consideration from both central, state, and local governments. It is critical to understand how tap water infrastructures are maintained and managed in everyday life, as well as what factors aid in closing the gap between tap access and use. — As a result of worldwide debates and constitutional reforms, some countries have attempted to establish a decentralised and community-driven drinking water system. However, we have yet to establish a decentralised method. Local institutions and players responsible for tap water supply have limited financial and technical autonomy. It is critical to address the social and spatial problems that these institutions encounter when placing taps, as well as whether they are technically capable of managing water quality and quantity and supplying it on time. — There is an urgent need to strengthen grievance resolution channels and methods. Another major problem is that administrative-level data does not accurately reflect reality on the ground. The JJM display reveals that many villages and areas have 100% tap water availability. However, it used outdated census data to determine tap water access. — The JJM also involves material considerations for water, infrastructure, and families. The concern over unpredictable climate, untimely precipitation, and surface and groundwater depletion has had an impact on water quality, quantity, and a timely and appropriate drinking water supply. — Leakage, breakage, disruption, breakdown, and suspension are all valid concerns, alongside others. An efficient tap water supply necessitates ongoing repair and maintenance efforts. Conclusion: — The position of the water tank, as well as the distance between residences and the tank, are critical to receiving enough pressure. Furthermore, involving different caste groups in local-level institutions (for example, as plumbers, pump operators, and engineers) is critical for an efficient tap water supply as well as repair and maintenance operations. — With an expanding population and insufficient secure infrastructure, rural communities are once again trapped in water source precarity, dependence, and economic hardship. The Jal Jeevan Mission's future must include these components in order to have an efficient supply chain. (Source: Many challenges of Jal Jeevan Mission: Decentralisation is the only way ahead) Points to Ponder Read more about JJM Read about other schemes under Ministry of Jal Shakti Related Previous Year Questions In a crucial domain like the public healthcare system, the Indian State should play a vital role in containing the adverse impact of the marketisation of the system. Suggest measures through which the State can enhance the reach of public healthcare at the grassroots level. (2024) 'To ensure effective implementation of policies addressing water, sanitation and hygiene needs, the identification of beneficiary segments is to be synchronized with the anticipated outcomes'. Examine the statement in the context of the WASH scheme. (2017) QUESTION 2: The India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is projected to yield multiple economic benefits for India, including enhanced bilateral trade, integration into global supply chains, and increased foreign investments. Discuss. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — In a world economy plagued by trade disputes and fears about decreasing trade growth, the conclusion of India-UK free trade agreement (FTA) talks is a significant milestone. — After 15 rounds of rigorous negotiations since January 2022, a historic free trade deal was struck in principle on May 6. However, installation will require some time. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — The FTA appears to abolish tariffs on roughly 99 percent of Indian exports to the UK, creating considerable commercial prospects. — The pact might also result in significant benefits in services, with the UK promising ambitious market access promises and easier transfer of Indian specialists to the UK. — Parallel negotiations on a bilateral investment treaty (BIT) to protect investments between the two countries may be more difficult to conclude. Disagreements regarding dispute resolution processes and investor protections may impede development on the BIT. — FTAs are well suited to India's fast growing economy, which is rising at more than 6% per year in a global economy growing at half that rate. For Britain, signing trade agreements with the United States and India at the same time signals a re-engagement with the two largest democracies and their markets following Brexit. — Geopolitical signalling is important in this transaction. The free trade agreement between the world's fourth and sixth largest economies comes at a time when the Trump administration's reciprocal tariff policies are generating economic uncertainty. This has rekindled previously dormant negotiations about concluding FTAs between like-minded countries. — An India-EU free trade agreement, in conjunction with an India-UK free trade agreement, has the potential to alter global trade rules and even resuscitate the World Trade Organisation. Potential economic benefits for India — Lowering trade and regulatory barriers through the FTA will stimulate specialisation and commerce based on comparative advantage between India and the United Kingdom. — India is a minor contributor in global supply chains, accounting for approximately 1.5 percent of goods exports in 2023. The India-UK Free Trade Agreement provides incentives for multinational corporations such as Apple to invest in export-oriented Indian manufacturing capacity, as well as the possibility of India potentially supplying the UK market. — As tariffs are reduced under the bilateral FTA, consumers will benefit from more access to high-quality products and lower pricing. — The FTA is a step towards India's inclusion in the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). The CPTPP, a high-standard, massive FTA that lowers trade barriers for its members but which India declined to join, accounts for a significant portion of global commerce. Conclusion: — The India–UK FTAs are an enabling condition for India's growth and influence in the global economy. Countries that use FTAs as a springboard to implement broad economic reforms and address supply-side issues will reap the most geopolitical and economic benefits. (Source: Four ways in which India gains from an FTA with the UK) Points to Ponder Read about India and UK trade relations Read about FTA Related Previous Year Questions What are the key areas of reform if the WTO has to survive in the present context of 'Trade War', especially keeping in mind the interest of India? (2018) Discuss the geopolitical and geostrategic importance of the Maldives for India with a focus on global trade and energy flows. Further, discuss how this relationship affects India's maritime security and regional stability amidst international competition. (2024) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 3 (Week 102) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 3 (Week 103) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 2 (Week 102) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 2 (Week 101) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 1 (Week 102) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 1 (Week 101) 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.
