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Indian Express
a day ago
- General
- Indian Express
Mains answer practice — GS 1 : Questions on significance of the triratna and temple architecture (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-1 to check your progress. 🚨 Click Here to read the UPSC Essentials magazine for June 2025. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at Discuss the major structural and decorative differences between the Nāgara and Drāviḍa temple traditions. Explain the significance of the triratna ('Three Jewels') in the quest of nibbāna. Explain how Buddha, Dhamma, and Sangha interact as interconnected underpinnings of the Buddhist path. 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 major structural and decorative differences between the Nāgara and Drāviḍa temple traditions. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — Indian temple architecture follows two main traditions: Nāgara (northern) and Draviḍa (southern). — In addition to these two, Indian art treatises discuss a third sort of construction tradition known as the 'Vesara' or hybrid. The etymological meaning of the term has led researchers in the past to interpret this category as a synthesis of northern and southern artistic traditions and to identify it with the geographically appropriate Deccan region. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: Nagara or North Indian Temple Style — Nagara is a temple building style that rose to prominence in northern India. In North India, it is typical to construct an entire temple on a stone platform with steps going up to it. — The earliest temples had only one tower, or shikhara, whereas later temples had multiple. The garbhagriha is always situated right beneath the tallest structure. — Nagara temples are divided into various categories based on the shape of the shikhara. The various components of the temple are known by different names in different parts of India; nevertheless, the plain shikhara is the most prevalent. — The phamsana is the nagara order's second primary architectural form. Phamsana buildings are often larger and shorter than Latina buildings. Their roofs are made up of many slabs that slowly rise to a single point above the core of the building, as opposed to Latina roofs, which appear to be sharply rising towering towers. — The third major kind of nagara buildings is known as the valabhi type. These are rectangular structures with roofs that rise into vaulted chambers. The vaulted chamber's edge is rounded, similar to the bamboo or wooden waggons hauled by bullocks in ancient times. They are commonly known as 'wagonvaulted buildings'. Dravida or South Indian Temple Style — The Dravidian temple is encircled by a compound wall. The front wall has an entrance gateway in the centre, known as a gopuram. In Tamil Nadu, the main temple tower, known as vimana, is shaped like a stepped pyramid that rises geometrically, as opposed to North India's bending shikhara. — In South Indian temples, the term'shikhara' refers only to the crowning part at the top of the temple, which is typically formed like a tiny stupika or an octagonal cupola—this is analogous to the amlak and kalasha of North Indian temples. To read more: How Indian temple architecture is rooted in art, religion, and politics Conclusion: — The evolution of Indian temple building is based on a complex interplay of art, religion, politics, and culture. While it began modestly, it grew into a sophisticated tradition that differed by region while maintaining a consistent cultural character. — Temples were frequently visited by powerful monarchs to worship their preferred deity while also asserting, consolidating, and legitimising their rule over an existing or new area. Rajaraja Cola, for example, constructed the Thanjavur Brihadesvara temple to demonstrate his authority over the region. — Kanchipuram, Thanjavur or Tanjore, Madurai, and Kumbakonam are the most well-known temple cities in Tamil Nadu, where temples served more than only religious purposes from the seventh to the twelfth centuries. Temples grew into prosperous administrative centres, governing enormous tracts of territory. (Source: How Indian temple architecture is rooted in art, religion, and politics, Points to Ponder Read more about Indian Temples Read about important temples in news in India Related Previous Year Questions How will you explain that Medieval Indian temple sculptures represent the social life of those days? (2022) Chola architecture represents a high watermark in the evolution of temple architecture. Discuss. (2013) QUESTION 2: Explain the significance of the triratna ('Three Jewels') in the quest of nibbāna. Explain how Buddha, Dhamma, and Sangha interact as interconnected underpinnings of the Buddhist path. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — Buddhism, founded on Siddhartha Gautama's or Buddha's teachings, lays forth the road to nibbana (freedom). The Buddha, Dhamma, and Sangha are the three jewels of Buddhism, and they are important to this path. — These three, also known as the tisarana (threefold refuge), are places of sanctuary for Buddhists, both laity (upasakas/upasikas) and monastics. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — The Buddha is the first and most fundamental of the three refuges. He is renowned as an awakened teacher who discovered and spread the road to liberation. — In Buddhism, Dhamma refers to the Buddha's teachings, which are based on the ariya sacchani or four noble truths and the atthanga magga or eightfold way. It describes ethical behaviour, discipline, and wisdom as the pillars of an individual's development. Impermanence (anichcha) is a key concept in the Buddha's teaching in this regard. — In the framework of a person's life and existence, no force in the cosmos can avert the unavoidable. As Siddhartha discovered on his first visit outside the palace, the beginning of old age, disease, and death is unavoidable. As a result, the conceptions of 'I','me', and'self' are ever-changing and comprised of a variety of experiences. — This idea is intimately related to Buddhism's rejection of anything permanent, including the soul or atman. Buddhism offers the doctrine of anattā (non-self), which holds that there is no permanent self or essence within beings or occurrences. This principle is expressed through a discourse between King Milinda and monk Nāgasena from Milindapañhā. — In Buddhist teachings, the Dhamma is sometimes compared to a raft, a powerful metaphor utilised in the Majjhima Nikaya. The book depicts a man who comes across a big river in flood. The shore he stands on is perilous and filled with terror, yet the far shore appears safe. However, there is no bridge or boat to help him cross the river. — After the Buddha and the Dhamma, the Sangha is the third jewel of the triratna. The Sangha is Buddhism's monastic organisation, created during the Buddha's lifetime. It was the central institution for disseminating the Buddha's teachings. — The Sangha's regulations specify aspects of monastic life, such as what its members should eat, how they should speak and walk, what they should dress, and how they should behave. These regulations also establish standards for settling conflicts and establishing the relationship between the Sangha and the laity. The Vinaya Pitaka also details the monks' first travelling lifestyle and ultimate transition to fixed dwelling. (Source: Three jewels that shape Buddhist philosophy and way of life) Points to Ponder Read about Vinaya Pitaka, Milindapañhā Read more about Buddhism Related Previous Year Questions Early Buddhist Stupa-art, while depicting folk motifs and narratives successfully expounds Buddhist ideals. Elucidate. (2016) Pala period is the most significant phase in the history of Buddhism in India. Enumerate. (2020) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 3 (Week 106) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 3 (Week 107) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 2 (Week 106) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 2 (Week 107) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 1 (Week 106) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 1 (Week 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
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
4 days ago
- Politics
- Indian Express
Mains answer practice — GS 3 : Questions on Bonn Climate Change Conference and identification and deportation of illegal immigrants (Week 107)
UPSC Essentials brings to you its initiative for the practice of Mains answer writing. It covers essential topics of static and dynamic parts of the UPSC Civil Services syllabus covered under various GS papers. This answer-writing practice is designed to help you as a value addition to your UPSC CSE Mains. Attempt today's answer writing on questions related to topics of GS-3 to check your progress. 🚨 Click Here to read the UPSC Essentials magazine for May 2025. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at Discuss how technology is transforming the identification and deportation of illegal immigrants, assessing both its benefits and limitations. The Bonn Climate Change Conference serves as a crucial mid-year platform under the UNFCCC process. Discuss its role in shaping the Global Goal on Adaptation (GGA) and climate finance frameworks ahead of COP30. Introduction — The introduction of the answer is essential and should be restricted to 3-5 lines. Remember, a one-liner is not a standard introduction. — It may consist of basic information by giving some definitions from the trusted source and authentic facts. Body — It is the central part of the answer and one should understand the demand of the question to provide rich content. — The answer must be preferably written as a mix of points and short paragraphs rather than using long paragraphs or just points. — Using facts from authentic government sources makes your answer more comprehensive. Analysis is important based on the demand of the question, but do not over analyse. — Underlining keywords gives you an edge over other candidates and enhances presentation of the answer. — Using flowcharts/tree-diagram in the answers saves much time and boosts your score. However, it should be used logically and only where it is required. Way forward/ conclusion — The ending of the answer should be on a positive note and it should have a forward-looking approach. However, if you feel that an important problem must be highlighted, you may add it in your conclusion. Try not to repeat any point from body or introduction. — You may use the findings of reports or surveys conducted at national and international levels, quotes etc. in your answers. Self Evaluation — It is the most important part of our Mains answer writing practice. UPSC Essentials will provide some guiding points or ideas as a thought process that will help you to evaluate your answers. QUESTION 1: Discuss how technology is transforming the identification and deportation of illegal immigrants, assessing both its benefits and limitations. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — Since Operation Sindoor began on May 7, Indian officials have 'pushed back' about 2,500 alleged illegal Bangladeshi immigrants across the international border. — The government has not only set a 30-day deadline for verifying illegal immigration, but identified persons are currently being carried from various states to border outposts by Indian Air Force aircraft. — This has, however, aroused concerns about due process, humanitarian difficulties, and pending litigation, particularly allegations of persons being abandoned in the no-man's land between India and Bangladesh. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — Migration between what is now Bangladesh and India dates back to British times. The colonial administration encouraged settlement in the then sparsely populated Assam by bringing in labourers from Bengal and North India. — Following partition, millions of East Pakistan refugees, predominantly Hindus, migrated to India. During Pakistan's violent crackdown on Bengalis, over 10 million people, predominantly Hindus, sought asylum in India in 1971 alone. — This inflow has resulted in major socio political turmoil, particularly in Assam. While the India-Bangladesh border is largely walled now, gaps remain and illegal migration continues, with Bangladeshi labourers noticeable in metropolitan labour markets across India. — There is currently no official or commonly accepted figure for the number of undocumented Bangladeshi immigrants in India, and estimates vary greatly. The government has also pursued a more tech-driven approach to the problem: — It developed the portal to collect biographic and biometric information from Rohingya immigrants. This was eventually expanded to cover Bangladeshi migrants as well. — In 2023, the government redesigned this webpage as the Foreigners Identification webpage (FIP) to record more thorough profiles of suspected illegal immigrants. States/UTs and the Ministry of External Affairs now have access to the portal, which is used to upload and verify information about suspected illegal immigrants. If verification fails, expulsion is initiated with assistance from the Foreigners' Regional Registration Offices (FRROs). — In 2023, the government also launched a District Police Module on the Immigration Visa Foreigner Registration Tracking (IVFRT) portal to track overstaying foreigners. — Biometric capture technology, including fingerprint scanners, cameras, and computers, has been installed throughout the BSF's police stations, detention centres, and Border Outposts. Conclusion: — Currently, states including Gujarat, Delhi, Assam, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan are gathering up and transporting detected illegal immigrants to Assam, Tripura, and Meghalaya border points. They are then 'pushed back' across the border by the Border Security Force (BSF). — However, the current effort represents a more organised, digitised approach to the issue of illegal migration. With biometric data now on the FIP, the government aims to check re-entry. (Source: How latest drive to deport illegal Bangladeshi immigrants stands out) Points to Ponder Read about places in news in India and Bangladesh Read about trade between India and Bangladesh Related Previous Year Questions India has a long and troubled border with China and Pakistan fraught with contentious issues. Examine the conflicting issues and security challenges along the border. Also give out the development Programme (BADP) and Border Infrastructure and Management (BM) Scheme. (2024) What are the internal security challenges being faced by India? Give out the role of Central Intelligence and Investigative Agencies tasked to counter such threats. (2023) QUESTION 2: The Bonn Climate Change Conference serves as a crucial mid-year platform under the UNFCCC process. Discuss its role in shaping the Global Goal on Adaptation (GGA) and climate finance frameworks ahead of COP30. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — The Bonn Climate Change Conference is an annual mid-year gathering held under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), an international accord adopted in 1992 that serves as a foundation for climate negotiations. — The conference is officially called the Sessions of the UNFCCC Subsidiary Bodies (SBs). It is the UNFCCC's sole regular climate conference, in addition to the annual Conference of the Parties (COP). Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — It is attended by members of SBs, which are committees that support the UNFCCC's governing bodies in executing and assessing climate change accords. Indigenous representatives, international groups, scientists, and representatives from civil society all attend the summit. — The meeting is held to examine technical and scientific aspects of climate discussions, as well as to determine the agenda for the COP, which typically occurs in November. — The Bonn Climate Conference is also where the implementation of agreements reached at the previous COP is discussed. — One of the main topics of discussion will be the Global objective on Adaptation (GGA), which is an attempt to create a shared global objective on adaptation, similar to how maintaining temperatures below the 1.5°C threshold is a global goal on mitigation. — Although the GGA was established in the Paris Agreement in 2015, no major breakthrough occurred until COP28 in Dubai, when parties agreed on a framework for outlining global adaptation goals. Conclusion: — The meeting is led by the SBs of the UNFCCC. There are two permanent SBs of the UNFCCC, the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA). — SBI assists the UNFCCC governing bodies in the assessment and review of the implementation of their decisions, while SBSTA advises the governing bodies on scientific knowledge related to climate change. (Source: Bonn Climate Change Conference begins: Everything you need to know) Points to Ponder Read more about Bonn Climate Conference Read more about COP Related Previous Year Questions The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has predicted a global sea level rise of about one metre by AD 2100. What would be its impact in India and the other countries in the Indian Ocean region? (2023) Explain the purpose of the Green Grid Initiative launched at World Leaders Summit of the COP26 UN Climate Change Conference in Glasgow in November, 2021. When was this idea first floated in the International Solar Alliance (ISA)? (2021) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 3 (Week 106) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 3 (Week 105) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 2 (Week 106) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 2 (Week 105) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 1 (Week 106) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 1 (Week 105) Subscribe to our UPSC newsletter and stay updated with the news cues from the past week. Stay updated with the latest UPSC articles by joining our Telegram channel – IndianExpress UPSC Hub, and follow us on Instagram and X.
India.com
13-06-2025
- General
- India.com
Meet woman, whose mother worked as a labourer, cracked UPSC exam, became India's youngest IPS officer, later left it due to…, she is...
The journey to qualify all three phases of the Civil Services Examination is possibly one of the most difficult academic challenges in India, but there are some extraordinary candidates who not only clear the exam but clear it twice with impressive ranks. One such inspirational story is of a young woman, the daughter of a labourer, who overcame all odds to qualify the UPSC CSE exam not once, but twice, and demonstrated that with sheer resolve and determination, things can change against all odds. Hailing from a small village of Nimbi in Mahendragarh, Haryana, Divya Tanwar lost her father in 2011. Her journey was tough and full of hardships, yet she never lost hope. Speaking about her financial conditions, Divya's mother, Babita Tanwar, used to work as a labourer in the fields to care for Divya and her three siblings. Divya studied at government institutions and later at Navodaya Vidyalaya. She earned a degree in science. Soon, she started preparing for the UPSC examination. Divya took a different approach to succeed and relied on online resources and test series, rather than traditional coaching, to clear the UPSC exam. Divya cleared the UPSC Civil Services Examination, in 2021 at the age of 21 and secured All India Rank (AIR) of 438. Thus, at 21, she was one of the youngest IPS officers in the country. Divya's secured an overall marks 930. In her written exam, she got 751 marks and 179 marks in the personality test in the UPSC Civil Services (MAIN) Examination, 2021. She belonged to the EWS category. Nonetheless, she wasn't happy and therefore, with the refreshed motivation, Divya again cracked the exam in the year 2022. This time she achieved an All India Rank (AIR) of 105. Divya got a total of 994 marks, consisting of 834 mark in the written exam and 160 marks in the personality test in the UPSC Civil Services (MAIN) Examination, 2022. Divya achieved her dream of being an IAS officer.
Indian Express
13-06-2025
- General
- Indian Express
Mains answer practice — GS 1 : Questions on significance of stromatolite formations and Kutch as a multi‑phased archaeological region (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-1 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 importance of Kutch as a multi‑phased archaeological region spanning hunter‑gatherer, pre‑Harappan, and mature Harappan phases. Discuss the significance of stromatolite formations for understanding the tectonic evolution of the Himalayas and the Tethys Sea. 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 importance of Kutch as a multi‑phased archaeological region spanning hunter‑gatherer, pre‑Harappan, and mature Harappan phases. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — Researchers have discovered human remains in the Great Rann of Kutch dating back at least 5,000 years before the Harappans. The finding is based on dating and analysing shell remains discovered in the late nineteenth century. — In 1872, Anglo-Irish geologist Arthur Beavor Wynne described 'a patch of large broken univalve shells' discovered 'all over the northern side of Kutch' in his memoirs for the Geological Survey of India (GSI). Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — A study reveals linkages between the Kutch midden site – archaeological sites where huge numbers of marine shells, bones, tools, and ceramics are generally found – and those in Oman and Pakistan along the coast of the northern Arabian Sea, where these pre-Harappan civilisations most likely resided. — A fresh group of archaeological remains was discovered about a km from the Harappan site of Dholavira near Bambhanka, the southernmost village on Khadir Beyt (island), on the road that connects the island to the Kutch mainland. — Khadir was one of six islands in this region where sea levels were higher until around 5,000-6,000 years ago, according to V N Prabhakar, an associate professor at the Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar's Department of Earth Sciences, Humanities, and Social Sciences. — 'The surface had broken potsherds, shell remains, and flakes of carnelian and agate, while on the surface were remnants of walls built with random rubble masonry,' Dr. Rai tells The Indian Express. A trench built for a pipeline on the hillock's western edge revealed a 30-40-cm-thick accumulation of shell remains. — The majority of the shell remains have been broken in the centre, most likely to extract meat. Similar findings from Pakistan's Las Bela region date back to the seventh and fifth millennia BCE, implying that hunter-gatherer tribes relied on shell remains for food and engaged in long-distance commerce within inland locales. Conclusion: — The study reveals the presence of coastal hunter-gatherer societies in the Great Rann of Kutch region that have adapted to the mangrove habitat, which is home to the shell species documented thus far, such as Terebralia palustris or the gigantic mangrove whelk. — Most sites are on river banks, about 2-2.5 km from the ocean, although some are farther inside, implying that the occupants hauled the sea shells inside. We were unable to reach the northern coast, which is a forested area, but there may be additional deposits. — The few remaining mangroves are discovered in the Little Rann of Kutch, southeast of Dholavira, near Lakhpat on the west coast, and at an inland area known as Shravan Kavadiya, northeast of Bhuj, which may have been the ancient shoreline. (Source: Stories in Kutch shells: Hunter-gatherers who lived in Gujarat 5,000 years before the Harappans and their cities) Points to Ponder Read about Dholavira Other Indus Valley civilisations sites in Gujarat Related Previous Year Questions The ancient civilization in Indian sub-continent differed from those of Egypt, Mesopotamia and Greece in that its culture and traditions have been preserved without a breakdown to the present day. Comment. (2015) To what extent has the urban planning and culture of the Indus Valley Civilization provided inputs to the present day urbanization? Discuss. (2014) QUESTION 2: Discuss the significance of stromatolite formations for understanding the tectonic evolution of the Himalayas and the Tethys Sea. Note: This is not a model answer. It only provides you with thought process which you may incorporate into the answers. Introduction: — Stromatolites are the earliest known fossil records of life on Earth. These structures are formed by complicated interactions between microbial mat populations and their geochemical surroundings. — Stromatolites, which are reef-like structures formed by ancient cyanobacteria in shallow oceans, provide evidence of this evolution. These mineralised mounds, which may be found all over India, from the Vindhyas and Cuddapah Basin to the limestone ridges of the Himalayas, record a time when oxygen did not exist and continents had not collided. Body: You may incorporate some of the following points in your answer: — These ancient structures provide a glimpse into a time when the Earth's atmosphere was dominated by greenhouse gases and oxygen was nonexistent. Their location in the Himalayas, far from any contemporary coastline, tells a story about tectonic upheavals, lost oceans, and the microbiological origins of life. — Ancient microbial mats, primarily made up of blue-green algae or cyanobacteria, caught and bonded silt over time, resulting in layered, reef-like mounds. — Stromatolites are bio sedimentary structures formed in shallow maritime environments by blue-green algae. — As oxygen began to accumulate in the atmosphere, due to these early cyanobacteria, the Earth changed from anaerobic to aerobic conditions, clearing the way for multicellular life. Around 3.5 billion years ago, the only species to survive were single-celled bacteria that produced oxygen. When stromatolites, generated by cyanobacteria or blue-green algae, began creating oxygen, the Earth's atmosphere changed, allowing multicellular life to emerge. This extraordinary voyage, documented in our geoheritage, resulted in the emergence of trilobites, dinosaurs, and, finally, modern humans. — The Great Oxidation Event or Oxygen Catastrophe refers to the increase in oxygen levels in the atmosphere and oceans that occurred roughly 2.4 billion years ago. — Chambaghat's stromatolites are part of the Krol Group of sedimentary rocks, which include limestone, shale, and sandstone and were created in a shallow marine environment similar to the Tethys Sea. 'These stromatolite-bearing formations were laid down in a shallow marine sea called the Tethys Sea, before India collided with Tibet and the sea was squeezed out,' according to Dr. Ahluwalia. — This area was formerly part of Gondwana, a southern supercontinent that comprised India, South America, Africa, and others. The Indian plate's northward migration and collision with Eurasia raised marine deposits, including stromatolites, thousands of meters into the sky. These are shallow marine deposits found between 5,000 and 6,000 feet above sea level. Conclusion: — A massive outcrop of these stromatolites, dating back 600 million years, was recently discovered in the pine-clad mountains of Chambaghat in Solan district, prompting renewed calls for preservation and public engagement with India's geological legacy. — The oldest stromatolites, dating back 3.6 billion years, are found in Australia. — Other stromatolitic locations in India include Karnataka's Bhima Basin, the Aravalli Supergroup, and Madhya Pradesh's Kadapa Mountains. The older stromatolites can be found in the Shali-deoban area of the Himalaya. Younger stromatolites have a smooth arc and are laminated and hemispheric, whereas older ones are branching and columnar. (Source: 600-million-year-old stromatolites in the Himalayas tell the story of an ocean lost and Earth's first breath) Points to Ponder Read more about stromatolites Related Previous Year Questions How are the fjords formed? Why do they constitute some of the most picturesque areas of the world? (2023) Describe the characteristics and types of primary rocks. (2022) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 3 (Week 106) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 3 (Week 105) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 2 (Week 106) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 2 (Week 105) UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 1 (Week 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.
