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Indian Express
4 days ago
- Politics
- Indian Express
Mains answer practice โ GS 3 : Questions on Bonn Climate Change Conference and identification and deportation of illegal immigrants (Week 107)
UPSC Essentials brings to you its initiative for the practice of Mains answer writing. It covers essential topics of static and dynamic parts of the UPSC Civil Services syllabus covered under various GS papers. This answer-writing practice is designed to help you as a value addition to your UPSC CSE Mains. Attempt today's answer writing on questions related to topics of GS-3 to check your progress. ๐จ Click Here to read the UPSC Essentials magazine for May 2025. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at Discuss how technology is transforming the identification and deportation of illegal immigrants, assessing both its benefits and limitations. The Bonn Climate Change Conference serves as a crucial mid-year platform under the UNFCCC process. Discuss its role in shaping the Global Goal on Adaptation (GGA) and climate finance frameworks ahead of COP30. Introduction โ The introduction of the answer is essential and should be restricted to 3-5 lines. Remember, a one-liner is not a standard introduction. โ It may consist of basic information by giving some definitions from the trusted source and authentic facts. Body โ It is the central part of the answer and one should understand the demand of the question to provide rich content. โ The answer must be preferably written as a mix of points and short paragraphs rather than using long paragraphs or just points. โ 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. โ Underlining keywords gives you an edge over other candidates and enhances presentation of the answer. โ 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 โ 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. โ You may use the findings of reports or surveys conducted at national and international levels, quotes etc. in your answers. Self Evaluation โ It is the most important part of our Mains answer writing practice. UPSC Essentials will provide some guiding points or ideas as a thought process that will help you to evaluate your answers. QUESTION 1: Discuss how technology is transforming the identification and deportation of illegal immigrants, assessing both its benefits and limitations. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: โ Since Operation Sindoor began on May 7, Indian officials have 'pushed back' about 2,500 alleged illegal Bangladeshi immigrants across the international border. โ The government has not only set a 30-day deadline for verifying illegal immigration, but identified persons are currently being carried from various states to border outposts by Indian Air Force aircraft. โ This has, however, aroused concerns about due process, humanitarian difficulties, and pending litigation, particularly allegations of persons being abandoned in the no-man's land between India and Bangladesh. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: โ Migration between what is now Bangladesh and India dates back to British times. The colonial administration encouraged settlement in the then sparsely populated Assam by bringing in labourers from Bengal and North India. โ Following partition, millions of East Pakistan refugees, predominantly Hindus, migrated to India. During Pakistan's violent crackdown on Bengalis, over 10 million people, predominantly Hindus, sought asylum in India in 1971 alone. โ This inflow has resulted in major socio political turmoil, particularly in Assam. While the India-Bangladesh border is largely walled now, gaps remain and illegal migration continues, with Bangladeshi labourers noticeable in metropolitan labour markets across India. โ There is currently no official or commonly accepted figure for the number of undocumented Bangladeshi immigrants in India, and estimates vary greatly. The government has also pursued a more tech-driven approach to the problem: โ It developed the portal to collect biographic and biometric information from Rohingya immigrants. This was eventually expanded to cover Bangladeshi migrants as well. โ In 2023, the government redesigned this webpage as the Foreigners Identification webpage (FIP) to record more thorough profiles of suspected illegal immigrants. States/UTs and the Ministry of External Affairs now have access to the portal, which is used to upload and verify information about suspected illegal immigrants. If verification fails, expulsion is initiated with assistance from the Foreigners' Regional Registration Offices (FRROs). โ In 2023, the government also launched a District Police Module on the Immigration Visa Foreigner Registration Tracking (IVFRT) portal to track overstaying foreigners. โ Biometric capture technology, including fingerprint scanners, cameras, and computers, has been installed throughout the BSF's police stations, detention centres, and Border Outposts. Conclusion: โ Currently, states including Gujarat, Delhi, Assam, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan are gathering up and transporting detected illegal immigrants to Assam, Tripura, and Meghalaya border points. They are then 'pushed back' across the border by the Border Security Force (BSF). โ However, the current effort represents a more organised, digitised approach to the issue of illegal migration. With biometric data now on the FIP, the government aims to check re-entry. (Source: How latest drive to deport illegal Bangladeshi immigrants stands out) Points to Ponder Read about places in news in India and Bangladesh Read about trade between India and Bangladesh Related Previous Year Questions India has a long and troubled border with China and Pakistan fraught with contentious issues. Examine the conflicting issues and security challenges along the border. Also give out the development Programme (BADP) and Border Infrastructure and Management (BM) Scheme. (2024) What are the internal security challenges being faced by India? Give out the role of Central Intelligence and Investigative Agencies tasked to counter such threats. (2023) QUESTION 2: The Bonn Climate Change Conference serves as a crucial mid-year platform under the UNFCCC process. Discuss its role in shaping the Global Goal on Adaptation (GGA) and climate finance frameworks ahead of COP30. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: โ The Bonn Climate Change Conference is an annual mid-year gathering held under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), an international accord adopted in 1992 that serves as a foundation for climate negotiations. โ The conference is officially called the Sessions of the UNFCCC Subsidiary Bodies (SBs). It is the UNFCCC's sole regular climate conference, in addition to the annual Conference of the Parties (COP). Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: โ It is attended by members of SBs, which are committees that support the UNFCCC's governing bodies in executing and assessing climate change accords. Indigenous representatives, international groups, scientists, and representatives from civil society all attend the summit. โ The meeting is held to examine technical and scientific aspects of climate discussions, as well as to determine the agenda for the COP, which typically occurs in November. โ The Bonn Climate Conference is also where the implementation of agreements reached at the previous COP is discussed. โ One of the main topics of discussion will be the Global objective on Adaptation (GGA), which is an attempt to create a shared global objective on adaptation, similar to how maintaining temperatures below the 1.5ยฐC threshold is a global goal on mitigation. โ Although the GGA was established in the Paris Agreement in 2015, no major breakthrough occurred until COP28 in Dubai, when parties agreed on a framework for outlining global adaptation goals. Conclusion: โ The meeting is led by the SBs of the UNFCCC. There are two permanent SBs of the UNFCCC, the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA). โ SBI assists the UNFCCC governing bodies in the assessment and review of the implementation of their decisions, while SBSTA advises the governing bodies on scientific knowledge related to climate change. (Source: Bonn Climate Change Conference begins: Everything you need to know) Points to Ponder Read more about Bonn Climate Conference Read more about COP Related Previous Year Questions The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has predicted a global sea level rise of about one metre by AD 2100. What would be its impact in India and the other countries in the Indian Ocean region? (2023) Explain the purpose of the Green Grid Initiative launched at World Leaders Summit of the COP26 UN Climate Change Conference in Glasgow in November, 2021. When was this idea first floated in the International Solar Alliance (ISA)? (2021) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice โ GS 3 (Week 106) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice โ GS 3 (Week 105) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice โ GS 2 (Week 106) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice โ GS 2 (Week 105) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice โ GS 1 (Week 106) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice โ 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 โ IndianExpress UPSC Hub, and follow us on Instagram and X.
Indian Express
10-06-2025
- General
- Indian Express
Mains answer practice โ GS 3 : Questions on climate change-induced glacier retreat and air pollution crisis (Week 106)
UPSC Essentials brings to you its initiative for the practice of Mains answer writing. It covers essential topics of static and dynamic parts of the UPSC Civil Services syllabus covered under various GS papers. This answer-writing practice is designed to help you as a value addition to your UPSC CSE Mains. Attempt today's answer writing on questions related to topics of GS-3 to check your progress. ๐จ Click Here to read the UPSC Essentials magazine for May 2025. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at The persistent air pollution crisis underscores the need for effective air quality monitoring and dust control measures. Critically analyse the shortcomings in the current air quality monitoring infrastructure and dust mitigation strategies. Critically analyse how climate change-induced glacier retreat in the Himalayas is exacerbating the risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs), and suggest mitigation strategies at the community and policy levels. Introduction โ The introduction of the answer is essential and should be restricted to 3-5 lines. Remember, a one-liner is not a standard introduction. โ It may consist of basic information by giving some definitions from the trusted source and authentic facts. Body โ It is the central part of the answer and one should understand the demand of the question to provide rich content. โ The answer must be preferably written as a mix of points and short paragraphs rather than using long paragraphs or just points. โ 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. โ Underlining keywords gives you an edge over other candidates and enhances presentation of the answer. โ 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 โ 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. โ You may use the findings of reports or surveys conducted at national and international levels, quotes etc. in your answers. Self Evaluation โ It is the most important part of our Mains answer writing practice. UPSC Essentials will provide some guiding points or ideas as a thought process that will help you to evaluate your answers. QUESTION 1: The persistent air pollution crisis underscores the need for effective air quality monitoring and dust control measures. Critically analyse the shortcomings in the current air quality monitoring infrastructure and dust mitigation strategies. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: โ One of the government's top priorities is to reduce air pollution. It must now design an effective strategy and put words to action. โ The locations of air quality monitoring stations in the capital, for example, did not meet the specifications set by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). โ According to the non-profit Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air, Delhi had the highest PM 10 (particulate matter smaller than 10 micrometres) levels of any of the 130 cities covered under the Centre's National Clean Air Programme in fiscal year 2024-25. During this time, the average PM 10 concentration in the capital was four to five times that of the WHO's recommendation. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: โ Delhi had an average annual PM 10 concentration of 206 ยตg/m3, while Byrinhat and Patna had values of 200 and 180 ยตg/m3, respectively. โ Cities participating in the clean air programme have been assigned a target of reducing inhalable PM 10 particles by up to 40% or meeting national ambient air quality criteria by 2025-26, compared to the 2017 baseline year. The NCAP assesses PM10 reductions on a fiscal year basis. โ Managing PM 10 is one of the less problematic components of Delhi's pollution problem. These particles settle faster than smaller PM 2.5 particles, making filtration devices more effective at trapping them. โ Road dust accounts for roughly 60% of these bigger pollutants, and basic municipal services can eliminate this threat at the source. According to a study conducted by experts at IIT Delhi, mending potholes, repairing unpaved roads, and removing waste dumps can cut city pollution by 15 to 25%. โ Another study conducted by experts at IIT Kanpur found that strategies such as vertically covering construction areas and using water spray and windbreakers to prevent building materials such as sand from dispersing can improve air quality by up to 50%. Conclusion: โ NCAP was launched in 2019 and encompasses 131 cities. The goal is to reduce particulate matter pollution by 40% by 2025-26 or achieve National Ambient Air Quality Standards. The 131 communities in 24 states, known as non-attainment cities, were chosen because they failed to fulfil national air quality criteria for five consecutive years between 2011 and 2015. (Source: Delhi's clean air programme should focus first on air quality monitoring, checking dust emissions, Delhi's PM 10 levels highest in FY 2024-25 among cities covered under clean air programme: New analysis) Points to Ponder Harmful effects of PM 10 and PM 2.5 on health? Preventive measures for air pollution Related Previous Year Questions Describe the key points of the revised Global Air Quality Guidelines (AQGs) recently released by the World Health Organisation (WHO). How are these different from its last update in 2005? What changes in India's National Clean Air Programme are required to achieve revised standards? (2021) What are the key features of the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) initiated by the government of India? (2020) QUESTION 2: Critically analyse how climate change-induced glacier retreat in the Himalayas is exacerbating the risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs), and suggest mitigation strategies at the community and policy levels. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: โ 'The Himalayas are sounding an alarm,' the Union Environment Minister warned during a climate meeting in Kathmandu. 'As a consequence of global warming due to human activity, glaciers are retreating, threatening the future of water security for populations downstream.' โ Scientific studies have long demonstrated that climate change is causing Himalayan glaciers to melt at an unprecedented rate, affecting water resources, agriculture, and livelihoods. โ Rising temperatures, erratic weather patterns, growing human-wildlife conflict, depleting water sources, and an alarming increase in landslides, floods, heatwaves, forest fires, and droughts are quickly becoming the new normal in the Himalayan region. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: โ According to a 2019 study published in the peer-reviewed journal Science Advances, 'glaciers across the Himalayas experienced significant ice loss over the past 40 years, with the average rate of ice loss twice as rapid in the 21st century compared to the end of the 20th century.' โ Himalayan glaciers are constantly disappearing due to global warming, resulting in the formation of artificial lakes known as GLOFs. When they burst, they cause mayhem. In October 2023, Sikkim's South Lhonak Lake produced a severe flood in the Teesta River region. It completely destroyed the Teesta III hydropower dam and caused extensive damage. โ A similar GLOF was behind the 2013 Kedarnath floods, which killed over 6,000 people. Another disaster struck Uttarakhand's Chamoli district in 2021, when an ice-rock avalanche caused flash floods that killed over 200 people and destroyed hydroelectric infrastructure. โ Scientists and environmentalists predict that such floods will become more common in India's hill states as glaciers melt faster due to climate change. โ According to the South Asia Water Initiative's report Monitoring of Glaciers, Climate, and Runoff in the Hindu Kush-Himalaya Mountains, remote sensing data estimates that Himalayan states such as Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh have approximately 7,500 glacier lakes. Of these, 190 are rated as 'very high' risk of producing a GLOF. Conclusion: Mitigation strategies โ Experts say that top-down solutions are failing. 'Multinational consultancies are being brought in to tackle problems that require local understanding, while the knowledge and experience of local communities are being overlooked. This approach must change. โ Infrastructure development also needs a major shift. There is no need for the large-scale infrastructure projects; instead, small-scale, sustainable development is the key. โ Tourism should be decentralised, focusing on lesser-known destinations rather than building up major hotspots. There is a need to adopt a policy that ties conservation with livelihood generation. (Source: How climate change and rapid development are pushing the Himalayan region to the brink) Points to Ponder Impact of climate change of water bodies in India How climate change affects agriculture? Related Previous Year Questions The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has predicted a global sea level rise of about one metre by AD 2100. What would be its impact in India and the other countries in the Indian Ocean region? (2023) Discuss global warming and mention its effects on the global climate. Explain the control measures to bring down the level of greenhouse gases which cause global warming, in the light of the Kyoto Protocol, 1997. (2022) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice โ GS 3 (Week 104) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice โ GS 3 (Week 105) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice โ GS 2 (Week 104) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice โ GS 2 (Week 105) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice โ GS 1 (Week 104) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice โ 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 โ IndianExpress UPSC Hub, and follow us on Instagram and X.
Indian Express
05-06-2025
- Politics
- Indian Express
Mains answer practice โ GS 3 : Questions on setting up tiger safaris and Left Wing Extremism (Week 105)
UPSC Essentials brings to you its initiative for the practice of Mains answer writing. It covers essential topics of static and dynamic parts of the UPSC Civil Services syllabus covered under various GS papers. This answer-writing practice is designed to help you as a value addition to your UPSC CSE Mains. Attempt today's answer writing on questions related to topics of GS-3 to check your progress. ๐จ Click Here to read the UPSC Essentials magazine for May 2025. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at Discuss how the 'National Policy and Action Plan to Address Left Wing Extremism' (2015) has reduced LWE-related violence in India. How has it contributed to the reduction in incidents? Critically examine the potential benefits and challenges of setting up tiger safaris in buffer zones of tiger reserves. Suggest measures to ensure that setting up tiger safaris balances wildlife conservation objectives with sustainable tourism and community welfare. Introduction โ The introduction of the answer is essential and should be restricted to 3-5 lines. Remember, a one-liner is not a standard introduction. โ It may consist of basic information by giving some definitions from the trusted source and authentic facts. Body โ It is the central part of the answer and one should understand the demand of the question to provide rich content. โ The answer must be preferably written as a mix of points and short paragraphs rather than using long paragraphs or just points. โ 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. โ Underlining keywords gives you an edge over other candidates and enhances presentation of the answer. โ 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 โ 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. โ You may use the findings of reports or surveys conducted at national and international levels, quotes etc. in your answers. Self Evaluation โ It is the most important part of our Mains answer writing practice. UPSC Essentials will provide some guiding points or ideas as a thought process that will help you to evaluate your answers. QUESTION 1: Discuss how the 'National Policy and Action Plan to Address Left Wing Extremism' (2015) has reduced LWE-related violence in India. How has it contributed to the reduction in incidents? Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: โ The Centre said incidents of violence by Left Wing Extremism (LWE) have reduced to 374 in 2024 from its highest level of 1936 in 2010. While the incidents of violence by LWE saw a reduction of 81 per cent, 'the total number of deaths, including civilians and security forces, has also reduced by 85 per cent โ from 1005 deaths in 2010 to 150 in 2024.' โ Along with zero tolerance towards violence, the country also focused on a massive push toward infrastructure and social empowerment to bring a positive change in the lives of the poor people in these regions. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: โ To address the LWE problem holistically, a 'National Policy and Action Plan to address LWE' was approved in 2015. It envisages a multi-pronged strategy involving security related measures, development interventions, ensuring rights and entitlements of local communities etc. โ While on security front, the GoI assists the LWE affected State Government by providing Central Armed Police Forces battalions, training, funds for modernization of State police forces, equipment & arms, sharing of intelligence, construction of Fortified Police Stations etc; on development side, apart from flagship schemes, Government of India (GoI) has taken several specific initiatives in LWE affected States, with special thrust on expansion of road network, improving telecommunication connectivity, skilling and financial inclusion. โ Since 2015, the Union Home Ministry has been working on a 'National Policy and Action Plan' to address the threat of left-wing extremism. The policy promotes zero tolerance for violence. โ The Central Government aids states in modernising and training their police personnel. This includes cash for unique infrastructure, planning, and security-related costs. Similarly, the Centre has begun numerous development projects, including the approval of 17,600-kilometer roads in areas prone to Left-Wing extremism. โ In addition, the states are furnished with helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for regular monitoring. CAPF battalions are also deployed at the request of states to strengthen their security networks and capacities. Conclusion: โ In recent years, India's multimodal counter-LWE approach, which combines security enforcement, inclusive development, and community participation, has been a huge success. โ The Indian government is committed to completely eliminating Naxalism by March 31, 2026, because Naxalism is viewed as the most significant impediment to the development of remote areas and tribal villages, preventing education, healthcare, connectivity, banking, and postal services from reaching these communities. (Source: Incidents of LWE-led violence down from 1,936 to 374 in 15 years: Centre, Points to Ponder Read more about Naxalism โ its history, background Read about the regions which are engulfed in Naxalism Related Previous Year Questions Explain how narco-terrorism has emerged as a serious threat across the country. Suggest suitable measures to counter narco-terrorism. (2024) Naxalism is a social, economic and developmental issue manifesting as a violent internal security threat. In this context, discuss the emerging issues and suggest a multilayered strategy to tackle the menace of Naxalism. (2022) QUESTION 2: Critically examine the potential benefits and challenges of setting up tiger safaris in buffer zones of tiger reserves. Suggest measures to ensure that setting up tiger safaris balances wildlife conservation objectives with sustainable tourism and community welfare. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: โ Tiger safari is not defined in the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972, which states that 'no construction of commercial tourist lodges, hotels, zoos, and safari parks shall be undertaken inside a sanctuary except with the prior approval of the National Board' [for Wildlife] established under the Act. โ The concept was first envisioned in the National Tiger Conservation Authority's (NTCA) Guidelines for Tourism, which provided for such establishments in buffer areas of tiger reserves 'which experience immense tourist influx in the core/critical tiger habitat for viewing tigers' in 2012. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: โ The concept was to create an enclosure within tiger reserves where animal sightings are not left to chance, as opposed to traditional wild safaris, such as those conducted in Jim Corbett National Park. This would be accomplished by putting the animals in vast naturalistic enclosures within a tiger reserve. โ In 2016, the NTCA released instructions for constructing tiger safaris in the buffer and periphery areas of tiger reserves for rescued, conflict-prone, or orphaned tigers, with the explicit condition that no zoo-bred animals be brought. โ Three years later, the NTCA adopted an amendment allowing tigers from zoos to be housed in safari parks. The Central Zoo ability (CZA) was given the ability to identify and authorise such zoo species, as well as oversee animal welfare, enclosure design, and zoo standard compliance in safari projects. โ In March 2024, the Supreme Court ordered that tiger safaris be constructed beyond the core and buffer areas of tiger reserves. It stated that such activities should not disrupt natural habitats or jeopardise conservation efforts. Potential benefits โ The Jharkhand government intends to establish the safari in the outskirts of the Barwadih Western Forest Range. The facility will not showcase any wild creatures; instead, it will contain conflict, injured, or orphaned animals rescued from India's tiger reserves and zoos. โ The safari will not only boost tourism but also provide direct jobs for at least 200 locals in the tourism industry. People would be needed for the positions of guides, support workers, and maintenance crew. Challenges โ It tends to ignore the presence and contributions of forest-dwelling populations, characterising them as threats rather than guardians of biodiversity. As a result, such projects frequently cause the displacement of local native communities. โ Relocation or Displacement โ Tiger safaris also threaten to undermine local businesses. (Source: Jharkhand to set up its first tiger safari: The plan and concerns around it) Points to Ponder Read about latest notified tiger safaris and their location Read about Project Tiger Related Previous Year Question What role do environmental NGOs and activists play in influencing Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) outcomes for major projects in India? Cite four examples with all important details. (2024) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice โ GS 3 (Week 104) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice โ GS 3 (Week 103) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice โ GS 2 (Week 104) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice โ GS 2 (Week 105) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice โ GS 1 (Week 104) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice โ 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 โ IndianExpress UPSC Hub, and follow us on Instagram and X.
Indian Express
27-05-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
Mains answer practice โ GS 3 : Questions on economic effect of hosting Olympics and global pandemic treaty (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-3 to check your progress. ๐จ Click Here to read the UPSC Essentials magazine for May 2025. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at The World Health Organisation's approval of the global pandemic treaty is an important step towards worldwide health cooperation. Discuss the essential provisions of this treaty and critically evaluate the obstacles connected with its implementation. India's bid to host the 2036 Olympic Games is frequently defended in terms of economic development, tourism, and public health initiatives. Drawing on worldwide experience, critically assess the long-term socioeconomic and health consequences of hosting major athletic events. Introduction โ The introduction of the answer is essential and should be restricted to 3-5 lines. Remember, a one-liner is not a standard introduction. โ It may consist of basic information by giving some definitions from the trusted source and authentic facts. Body โ It is the central part of the answer and one should understand the demand of the question to provide rich content. โ The answer must be preferably written as a mix of points and short paragraphs rather than using long paragraphs or just points. โ 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. โ Underlining keywords gives you an edge over other candidates and enhances presentation of the answer. โ 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 โ 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. โ You may use the findings of reports or surveys conducted at national and international levels, quotes etc. in your answers. Self Evaluation โ 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 World Health Organisation's approval of the global pandemic treaty is an important step towards worldwide health cooperation. Discuss the essential provisions of this treaty and critically evaluate the obstacles connected with its implementation. Introduction: โ Following more than three years of rigorous talks, member nations of the World Health Organisation (WHO) agreed a legally binding convention to better address future pandemics. โ The pandemic treaty, which was adopted without the United States, is only the second legally binding agreement in the WHO's 75-year existence, following the 2003 tobacco control treaty. Body: โ Negotiations for a global pandemic treaty began in December 2021, just as the Omicron strain of SARS-CoV-2 was spreading over the world, causing a significant new surge in COVID-19. โ According to a Nature report, one of the agreement's key components is a 'pathogen access and benefit sharing' system, which allows pharmaceutical companies access to scientific data such as pathogen samples and genomic sequences in exchange for more equitable sharing of drugs, vaccines, and diagnostics during a pandemic. โ According to the treaty, member firms must give 10% of their vaccine, therapeutic, and diagnostic production to the WHO. Another 10% will be provided at 'affordable prices'. โ The agreement also specifies that member states should 'promote and otherwise facilitate or incentivise' the exchange of technology and know-how to assist developing-country manufacturers in producing their own pharmaceuticals and vaccines. โ Countries must also adopt national laws to impose constraints on medicine and vaccine research that they fund, either through universities or private enterprises, in order to ensure 'timely and equitable access' to the ensuing drugs or diagnostics during pandemics. Conclusion: โ Although the deal has been lauded as innovative and historic, numerous analysts have argued that its scope is limited. For example, the agreement does not grant the WHO authority over specific governments. โ The pact also states that the WHO does not have the authority to dictate or enforce any obligations, such as 'ban or accept travellers, impose vaccination mandates, therapeutic or diagnostic measures, or implement lockdown.' โ In an effort to avoid the loss of human life and disruption to households and communities as a whole โ as occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic โ during future pandemics, WHO member states banded together and began to work out an agreement. It took over three and a half years and thirteen rounds of negotiations to obtain an agreement. (Source: Member states of WHO adopt global pandemic treaty: What does it entail?) Points to Ponder Read more about Pandemic treaty Read about WHO Related Previous Year Questions Introduce the concept of Artificial Intelligence (AI). How does AI help clinical diagnosis? Do you perceive any threat to privacy of the individual in the use of AI in healthcare? (2023) What is the basic principle behind vaccine development? How do vaccines work? What approaches were adopted by the Indian vaccine manufacturers to produce COVID-19 vaccines? (2022) QUESTION 2: India's bid to host the 2036 Olympic Games is frequently defended in terms of economic development, tourism, and public health initiatives. Drawing on worldwide experience, critically assess the long-term socioeconomic and health consequences of hosting major athletic events. Introduction: โ India is one of many countries interested in hosting the 2036 Olympics, having sent a Letter of Intent to the International Olympic Committee. โ As the country builds a solid case for hosting the Olympics, officials participating in the process have highlighted the possible economic gains, tourism boost, and health awareness as some of the advantages of hosting the Games. Body: โ A recent study published in Social Science & Medicine utilised data from over 19,000 London and Paris citizens to assess the Olympics' concrete and intangible impact, with an emphasis on health behaviour, wellbeing, and economic return. โ The Paris Olympics were one enormous fortnight-long celebration on the Seine. The London Games were also a cultural highlight, with a joyful spirit sweeping the city. In post-Games surveys, 65 percent of Londoners characterised the summer of 2012 as 'a summer like no other,' with 69 percent believing the Games would inspire more adults to participate in sports. Among children, this figure increased to an astounding 81%. Economic effect of hosting Olympics โ The most contentious part of hosting the Olympics is the financial load it lays on taxpayers. Estimates for recent Games range from $8 billion (Sydney 2000) to $52 billion (Beijing 2008). The most recent Paris Olympics cost around $9.5 billion. โ There's the case of Athens 2004, which ended up costing more than twice its intended budget, forcing Greece farther into debt. Many Olympic venues became idle 'white elephants,' and while the Games provided brief pride, they also left behind deteriorating infrastructure and a financial burden that contributed to Greece's subsequent economic disaster. โ The report also stated that 'the London Games simply did not generate enough healthcare savings to justify the billions spent'. The health argument is that the Games can motivate people to live better lives, while increased infrastructure and connectivity have an indirect impact on a city's healthcare facilities. Conclusion: โ The analysis indicated that, while the London Olympics saved approximately ยฃ4.2 million in healthcare expenses, this was swamped by the ยฃ40 million spent on promoting grassroots physical activity. The outcome was a net loss of more than ยฃ35 million. In short, the Games did not provide good value for money in terms of public health outcomes. (Source: As India bids for Olympics, what research has found about health, economic impacts on hosts) Points to Ponder Read about Olympics What are the criteria to host the Olympics? Related Previous Year Questions What are the direct and indirect subsidies provided to farm sector in India? Discuss the issues raised by the World Trade Organization (WTO) in relation to agricultural subsidies. (2023) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice โ GS 3 (Week 102) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice โ GS 3 (Week 103) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice โ GS 2 (Week 102) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice โ GS 2 (Week 103) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice โ GS 1 (Week 102) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice โ 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 โ IndianExpress UPSC Hub, and follow us on Instagram and X.
Indian Express
20-05-2025
- Politics
- Indian Express
Mains answer practice โ GS 3 : Questions on Periodic Labour Force Survey and impacts of climate change on India's military preparedness (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-3 to check your progress. ๐จ Click Here to read the UPSC Essentials magazine for May 2025. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at Climate change is increasingly recognised as a national security imperative. Discuss the multifaceted impacts of climate change on India's military preparedness and strategic stability. The recent methodological and frequency updates to the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) aim to provide more timely and representative labour market data. Discuss the significance of these changes for economic policy-making in India. Introduction โ The introduction of the answer is essential and should be restricted to 3-5 lines. Remember, a one-liner is not a standard introduction. โ It may consist of basic information by giving some definitions from the trusted source and authentic facts. Body โ It is the central part of the answer and one should understand the demand of the question to provide rich content. โ The answer must be preferably written as a mix of points and short paragraphs rather than using long paragraphs or just points. โ 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. โ Underlining keywords gives you an edge over other candidates and enhances presentation of the answer. โ 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 โ 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. โ You may use the findings of reports or surveys conducted at national and international levels, quotes etc. in your answers. Self Evaluation โ 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: Climate change is increasingly recognised as a national security imperative. Discuss the multifaceted impacts of climate change on India's military preparedness and strategic stability. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: โ In February 2025, Goa and Maharashtra saw India's first-ever winter heatwave, making it the hottest February in 125 years. โ Geopolitical upheavals in climate policy, characterised by the United States' turn to isolationism and transactionalism, manifested in tariffs and withdrawals from international institutions, as well as diminished clean-energy support from the United Kingdom and the European Union, have generated deep uncertainty and disruption. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: โ The EU's latest Omnibus plan, meant at streamlining sustainability standards, risks creating regulatory complexity and postponing critical investments, undermining Europe's competitiveness as China and Japan adopt stronger sustainability frameworks. โ India risks increased susceptibility as global temperatures rise to 2.4 to 3 degrees Celsius, well above the Paris Agreement's aspirational target of 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. Impacts of climate change on India's military preparedness and strategic stability โ Military might is based not just on technology and manpower, but also on consistent environmental conditions. As climate stability deteriorates, India's military readiness is jeopardised on several fronts. โ Rising temperatures, for example, could lower the payload capacity of the Indian Air Force's C-17 Globemaster III aircraft by roughly 30%, posing a significant challenge during operational missions. โ Addressing these diverse dangers requires a comprehensive and aggressive response. Climate resilience must be included into India's overall security strategy. (i) Climate adaptation planning should become integrated into military operations, similar to the US Department of Defense's Climate Adaptation Plan (2024-2027). Critical infrastructure must undergo rigorous climate-risk assessments, be evaluated on a regular basis, and even be systematically renovated to increase resilience. (ii) Increasing institutional capability is crucial. Establishing specialised units, such as a weather squadron inside military engineering services, might offer the armed forces with actionable climate knowledge. It is equally important to incorporate climate issues into military drills and war games. Conclusion: โ India can strengthen international engagement by forcefully pressing for more climate money, technological transfers, and regional disaster preparedness measures. โ Climate change is more than just an environmental or economic concern; it is a national security priority. India's military readiness, economic stability, and regional peace all rest on how well it adjusts to a more unpredictable future. Climate resilience must not be India's wasted strategic opportunity of the twenty-first century. (Source: India's military must prepare for climate change) Points to Ponder Impact of climate change Suggest proactive measures to enhance the military's resilience will ensure preparedness in the face of evolving climate challenges. Related Previous Year Questions Discuss global warming and mention its effects on the global climate. Explain the control measures to bring down the level of greenhouse gases which cause global warming, in the light of the Kyoto Protocol, 1997. (2022) 'Climate change' is a global problem. How will India be affected by climate change? How Himalayan and coastal states of India are affected by climate change? (2017) QUESTION 2: The recent methodological and frequency updates to the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) aim to provide more timely and representative labour market data. Discuss the significance of these changes for economic policy-making in India. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: โ India's Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation has released a new and updated edition of the Periodic employment Force Survey (PLFS), launching timely data on the state of the employment market. โ The PLFS was started in 2017 as an annual survey to replace the five-year Employment-Unemployment Surveys. PLFS has previously provided a quarterly report on India's unemployment, but only for urban regions. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: โ Shifting to a monthly reporting cycle promises to improve policy evaluation. Historically, timely official data was lacking when determining the impact on unemployment, for example, a pandemic-induced lockdown or a disruption such as demonetisation. โ The PLFS has undergone changes that go beyond simply increasing its frequency. For one, the sample design has been enhanced and the sample size increased. The sample size for each cycle of surveys will now be 2,72,304 households, a 2.65-fold increase over the number of sample houses covered by the PLFS up to December 2024. โ These adjustments to the PLFS technique and frequency are desirable. As India's economy expands and seeks global investors, reliable and accurate data will be essential. โ The district has been designated as the key geographical unit in order to assure sample observations from the majority of districts in the PLFS sample, hence improving the estimates' representativeness. Notably, the yearly reporting period has been shifted to the calendar year, beginning in January 2025 rather than July-June. This change would allow for the timely update of India's labour market statistics in the databases maintained by international authorities. Conclusion: โ The current data on the Indian labour market leaves much to be desired. For example, according to April data, while the general jobless rate in India is 5.1%, it climbs to 6.5% in urban regions and 8.7% in female urban areas. โ The most concerning news is that youth (15-29 years old) unemployment is 13.8% across India, 17.2% in urban regions, and 23.7% among young urban women. (Source: Labour Force Survey has an update. It's a welcome one) Points to Ponder Read more about PLFS Related Previous Year Questions Discuss the merits and demerits of the four 'Labour Codes' in the context of labour market reforms in India. What has been the progress so far in this regard? (2024) Most of the unemployment in India is structural in nature. Examine the methodology adopted to compute unemployment in the country and suggest improvements (2023) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice โ GS 3 (Week 102) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice โ GS 3 (Week 101) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice โ GS 2 (Week 102) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice โ GS 2 (Week 101) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice โ GS 1 (Week 102) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice โ 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 โ IndianExpress UPSC Hub, and follow us on Instagram and X.
