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☑️ Join for mains Previous Year Questions Questions from 1999 - 2023 Questions will be segregated Subject/topic wise ✅Prelims PYQs @UPSC_Prelims_PYQ_MCQ ✅CSAT PYQs @UPSC_CSAT_PYQ
What steps were introduced in the 2024 Budget to improve the flexibility, resilience, and cleanliness of India’s power grid?In what ways will these initiatives promote sustainable economic growth and create employment opportunities in the clean energy sector? (250 words)
The key steps introduced in the 2024 Budget to enhance India's power grid flexibility, resilience, and cleanliness. These initiatives are crucial for sustainable economic growth and job creation in the clean energy sector.
1. Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI):
- Objective: Promote formalization and financial inclusion.
- Impact: Strengthening the financial sector and widening the tax base via GST.
- Economic Growth: DPI facilitates seamless transactions, encouraging investment and economic activity.
2. Clean Energy Initiatives:
- Viability Gap Funding for Wind Energy:
- Objective: Encourage wind energy projects.
- Impact: Boost clean energy capacity, reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
Coal Gasification and Liquefaction Capacity:
- Objective: Develop alternative fuel sources.
- Impact: Reducing reliance on conventional coal, promoting cleaner energy.
Phased Mandatory Blending:
- Objective: Blend CNG, PNG, and compressed biogas.
- Impact: Enhance clean fuel adoption, reduce emissions.
Biomass Aggregation Machinery:
- Objective: Facilitate biomass procurement.
- Impact: Boost rural employment, promote sustainable energy.
Rooftop Solarization:
- Objective: Enable households to access free solar electricity.
-Impact: Job creation, reduced energy bills for citizens.
E-Buses and E-Vehicles:
- Objective: Promote electric mobility.
- Impact: Employment in manufacturing, charging infrastructure.
Bio-Manufacturing and Bio-Foundry:
- Objective: Support eco-friendly alternatives.
-Impact: Job opportunities in biomanufacturing sector.
3. Non-Fossil Fuel Capacity Expansion:
- Objective: Increase non-fossil fuel electricity capacity.
- Impact: Reduced carbon footprint, cleaner environment.
LPG Connections and LED Distribution:
- Objective: Enhance access to clean cooking fuel and energy-efficient lighting.
- Impact: Improved health, energy savings, and employment in distribution.
In conclusion, these budgetary measures strengthen India's power infrastructure, promote clean energy adoption, and create employment opportunities, aligning with sustainable economic growth goals.
Examine the impact of regulatory frameworks and enforcement mechanisms on the safety of educational institutions in urban areas. What measures can be taken to enhance these systems and prevent future incidents?
Enhancing Safety in Urban Educational Institutions: Regulatory Frameworks and Enforcement Measures
Introduction:
Ensuring the safety of educational institutions in urban areas is crucial for fostering a conducive learning environment. Regulatory frameworks and effective enforcement mechanisms play a pivotal role in achieving this goal.
Impact of Regulatory Frameworks and Enforcement Mechanisms:
1. Legal and Regulatory Backbone:
- Access to Public Information (ATI) Laws: These laws form the backbone of open government initiatives. They facilitate both proactive and reactive disclosure of information and data.
- Compliance Requirements: Regulatory frameworks set standards for safety protocols, infrastructure, and emergency preparedness in educational institutions.
- Inspections: Regular inspections ensure adherence to safety norms and identify gaps.
2. Challenges and Impact:
- Inadequate Implementation: Despite robust regulations, enforcement gaps exist due to resource constraints, corruption, and bureaucratic inefficiencies.
- Lack of Awareness:Some institutions may not fully understand safety requirements or prioritize compliance.
- Urban Context: Urban institutions face unique challenges such as overcrowding, traffic hazards, and crime risks.
3. Measures to Enhance Safety:
Strengthening Enforcement:
- Training and Capacity Building: Equip regulatory bodies with the skills to conduct effective inspections and enforce safety norms.
- Transparency: Publicly report inspection findings and compliance status to encourage accountability.
- Collaboration: Involve local authorities, police, and community members in safety assessments.
Promoting Awareness:
- Campaigns: Educate institutions, students, and parents about safety protocols.
- Emergency Drills: Regularly practice evacuation procedures and response to threats.
Infrastructure Upgrades:
- Fire Safety:Install fire alarms, extinguishers, and conduct fire drills.
- Security Measures: Implement access control, surveillance, and secure perimeters.
- Structural Integrity: Regularly assess buildings for safety risks.
Crisis Management Plans:
- Protocols:Develop clear procedures for emergencies, including natural disasters, violence, and health crises.
- Communication: Establish communication channels with parents, emergency services, and neighboring institutions.
Conclusion:
Effective regulatory frameworks and rigorous enforcement are essential for safeguarding urban educational institutions. By addressing implementation challenges and prioritizing safety measures, we can create secure learning environments for our students and prevent future incidents.
Que. Indian Union is predominantly a unitary state with certain federal characteristics, rather than a federal state with predominant unitary features. Contextually enumerate unitary and federal features of Indian Constitution.
Answer: Article 1 of the Indian Constitution describes India as a ‘Union of States,’ rather than a ‘Federation of States,’ indicating its unique political structure. This distinction sets the stage for examining the nature of the Indian political system and the extent to which it leans towards a unitary state with federal characteristics or a federal state with predominant unitary features.
Unitary state with certain federal characteristics:
✅ Dual Polity: The Indian Union exhibits a dual polity, where both the central government and state governments possess independent authority.
✅ Written Constitution: The Constitution of India is a written document that delineates the powers and functions of the central and state governments.
✅ Division of Powers: The Seventh Schedule of the Constitution outlines the distribution of powers between
the centre and the states through the Union List, State List, and Concurrent List.
✅ Supremacy of the Constitution: The Constitution is the supreme law of the land, providing a framework for governance and protecting the rights and freedoms of citizens.
✅ Rigid Constitution: The Constitution can only be amended through specific federal provisions, ensuring a
certain level of stability and permanence.
✅ Independent Judiciary: The judiciary acts as an impartial arbiter and interprets the Constitution to resolve disputes between the centre and the states.
✅ Bicameralism: The Indian Parliament consists of two houses, the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, representing the interests of both the states and the centre.
Predominant unitary features of Indian Constitution:
✅ Strong Centre: The centre holds significant power and authority over certain subjects such as Defence, Citizenship etc.
✅ Union List and Residuary Power: The Union List contains more subjects compared to the State List, and the residuary power lies with the central government.
✅ Article 3: The Constitution provides for the alteration of state boundaries, indicating that states are not inviolable entities.
✅ Single Constitution: Both the centre and the states operate under a single constitution.
✅ Flexible Amending Procedure: The Constitution allows for a relatively easier process of amending most
provisions.
✅ Unequal Representation: States are not equally represented in the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of Parliament.
✅ Emergency Provisions: Articles 352, 356, and 360 empower the centre to take control of the states under
certain circumstances.
The Indian Union has more unitary features compared to federal features. However, this does not violate the basic federal principle of a dual polity.
✅ The centralizing tendency is considered an exception rather than a norm, as affirmed by the Supreme Court in the SR Bommai case.
✅ The Indian federalism model promotes a cooperative and competitive approach.
🔸Initiatives like GST and the inter-state council showcase this cooperative and competitive federalism. This unique federal structure allows states to freely share revenue, ideas, and power with the center.
In conclusion, the Indian Union can be characterized as a unitary state with subsidiary federal features. The Indian federalism model strikes a balance between centralism and regional autonomy, fostering cooperative and competitive federalism in a way that is distinctively Indian.#GS2
"Recent amendments to the Right to Information Act will have profound impact on the autonomy and independence of the Information Commission". Discuss.
(Answer in 150 words)
Recently, some of the sections of RTI like section 13, 16, 27 has been amended, which has the potential to impact the autonomy of the Information commission.
▪️Amendments done:
✅Term of Information Commissioners: The amendment states that the central government will notify the term of office for the CIC and the ICs.
✅Determination of salary: The amendment seeks an amendment to state that the salaries, allowances, and other terms and conditions of service of the central and state CIC and ICs will be determined by the central government.
✅Deductions in salary: The Act states that at the time of the appointment of the CIC and ICs (at the central and state level), if they are receiving pension or any other retirement benefits for previous government service, their salaries will be reduced by an amount equal to the pension.
▪️Impact of such amendment on Autonomy and Independence of the Information Commission:
✅Dismantling of Transparency architecture.
✅ It has been criticised as an RTI elimination bill.
✅It shifts loyalty to the government from the public.
✅The CIC and IC deal with huge vested interest especially in senior bureaucracy, thus the amendment will impinge the working of commission.
✅Doctrine of checks and balances will be impacted.
It is a high time to understand that RTI is enacted not only to subserve but also to ensure freedom of speech, thus implement the recommendation of 2nd ARC - Setting the selection committee comprising of PM, LoP, CJI for the appointment of CIC, rather than destroy the independence of the commission.
Que. Recent amendments to the Right to information act will have a profound impact on the autonomy and independence of the information commission". Discuss.
Answer : The Right to Information Act, 2005 was enacted to enhance transparency and accountability in the work of public authorities. The information commissions established by the act are impacted by the recent changes to the act.
Recent amendments to the RTI
✅Provisions of RTI, 2005 :
✅Post-amendment to RTI :
Q. The 1857 Uprising was the culmination of the recurrent big and small local rebellions that had occurred in the preceding hundred years of British rule. Elucidate. (10 marks)
✅The year 1857 was a watershed one in the history of India. Though the revolt of 1857 is considered as the first major resentment against British rule, it is also believed to be the culmination of the recurrent big and small local rebellions that had occurred in the preceding hundred years of British rule.
✅ Civil Revolts before the 1857 uprising: These were the first group of people who revolted against Britishers to secure their traditional and customary rights. Example: Sanyasi revolt (1763-1800), Revolt in Midnapore and Dhalbhum (1766-74) Revolt of Moamarias (1769-99)
✅Tribal Revolts before the 1857 uprising: The resentment of tribal against Britishers was mainly due to imposition of forest rights Act, forceful conversion of tribals by Christian missionaries. Examples: Chuar uprising, Khond uprising, Santhal uprising etc.
✅ Peasant Revolts before the 1857 uprising: The common provoking cause of resentment of the peasants were vague demand of land revenue, oppression of officials and frequent occurrence of drought and famine. Example: Pagal panthis of Bengal, Faraizi revolt, Mopillah uprising etc.
✅ Revolts by the Princely States: Britishers were annexing the princely states by using diplomacy of subsidiary alliance and Doctrine of Lapse. Example: Jhansi in 1852.
It can be said that these rebellions-which were localised in nature, lacking of efficient leadership and influenced by backward looking ideology were suppressed by Britishers with use of force but still they established a culture of resistance among natives and eventually prepared the way for the 1857 revolt.
Q. Highlight the Central Asian and Greco-Bactrian elements in the Gandhara art (10 marks)
✅ The Gandhara School of art shows Buddha in the symbolic form, not a human form. It was developed between the 1st century BCE and the 7th century CE during Kushan rule, of which Gandhara sculpture was an important part, depicting sculpture of Buddha.
✅The central Asian and Greco-Bactrian elements in the Gandhara art:
▪️Greek Influence:
✅ Hellenistic features like curly hairs, moustaches on face.
✅ Vajrapani protector image.
✅ Muscular body.
✅ Coins with Greek script.
✅ Draperies covering both shoulders.
✅ Stucco plastering.
▪️Roman influence:
✅ Buddha is sometimes presented in Roman motifs like Triton.
✅ Buddha of Gandhara sometimes through a wine scroll.
✅ Buddha in human form is inspired by Roman tradition.
✅ The outer rope of Buddha of Gandhara like Kaya resembles Roman gods.
▪️Central Asian Influence:
✅ Bluish Schist used in Gandhara Art.
✅ Disc shaped halo around the Buddha head.
✅ Buddha presented in human form.
✅ Kharosthi letters on Buddhist inscriptions in Gandhara.
The above influences can be well justified because of the strategic location of Gandhara school. Thus, in this regard it can be claimed that the art that flourished in the Gandhara valleys was a blend of different cultures.
🔆WEAVING AS A LIVELIHOOD
✅ According to some estimates, the handloom industry may be the largest source of employment in India next only to agriculture.
✅ Unfortunately, the lack of reliable data regarding this sector is but one of the many challenges that it faces today.
✅ The other big challenge faced by the sector is competition from products made by the powerloom which are much cheaper and available in much larger quantities.
✅ The prevalence of machine-made goods has lured many weavers away from traditional hand-weaving techniques.
✅ Another challenge for the weavers is fast- changing fashion and design preferences. Few weavers have formal training in the design and marketing of products, especially those which are in demand in urban centres.
✅ Thus, many weavers, instead of passing their skills to the next generation, choose to encourage their children to work in offices, in the hope of a better life.
Ray of Hope :
✅With the current interest in handmade and sustainable products, there is renewed hope for weavers.
✅Weaving by hand produces no emissions and uses natural raw materials.
✅Today, several Indian fashion designers are working with rural weaving clusters international fashion houses too are showing interest in Indian handicraft and handloom practices.
✅ The other positive development is the advent of e-commerce. Weavers have easy access to whole new markets, information, and connectivity, and they can choose to market their products online.
✅Some organisations and corporate houses are supporting weavers in the entire value chain from providing raw materials to marketing their products.
Conclusion
✅ Not many other countries can boast of such a rich culture of hand work particularly handlooms.
✅ It is a rare privilege to have weavers with such skill and knowledge even today and we must each do our bit to understand, support, and encourage handlooms.
#mains
#GS3
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Gs-4 Ethics
“The good for man is an activity of the soul in accordance with virtue, or if there are more kinds of virtues than one, in accordance with the best and most perfect kind.” Comment
answer :
1. A virtue is a trait or quality that is deemed to be morally good and thus is valued as a foundation of principle and good moral being. It is a behavior that shows high moral standards.
2. Ethics is devoted to discussing the various moral and intellectual virtues. These virtues are dispositions to behave in the correct way. They are not themselves activities, but they ensure that our activities will be of the right kind. To live “in accordance with virtue,” then, is to live in such a way that our activities flow naturally from a virtuous disposition.
3. The statement connects Aristotle’s conception of happiness and the good life with his conception of virtue.
The word activity translates from the Greek energeia, which signifies not only physical activity but also mental activity as seemingly inactive as contemplation or daydreaming. Good life is not an end state that we achieve but rather a way of life that we live.
4. Aristotle is arguing that once we have discovered the function of man we find that happiness is the virtuous activity of the soul. Aristotle treats happiness as an activity, not as a state. He uses the word energeia, which
is the root of word energy, to characterize happiness.
5. The point is that happiness consists of a certain way of life, not of certain dispositions. In saying that happiness is an energeia, he contrasts happiness with virtue, which he considers a hexis, or state of being
6. Possessing all the right virtues disposes a person to live well, while happiness is the activity of living well, which the virtuous person is inclined toward
#gs4
#ethics
#mains
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@upsc_society_gs
Q. Persian literary sources of mediaeval India reflect the spirit of the age. Comment?
Persian literature gained prominence during the Delhi Sultanate primarily during the mediaeval era around 12th AD. The writings of Fariq-i-Firuz Shahi, Akbarnama and many more explored the socio-political conditions of that period.
▪️The Persian literature reflects the spirit of the age in the following ways:
1. Political structure of Mediaeval India:
a. Ziauddin Barani’s Tahrik-i- Firoz Shahi about Firoz Shah Tughlaq.
b. Akbar Nama by Abu Fazl.
c. Both described the Political unit at centre, provincial and state level along with the type of administration
during Delhi and Mughal dynasties.
2. Social Aspects: Amir Khusro reflected that:
a. Brahmins were the dominant sections among the Hindus.
b. He also mentions the exploitative nature of the Jizya Tax.
c. He reflected the Ganga-Jamuni Tehzeeb.
3. Religious Aspect:
a. Religious tolerance towards others.
b. Important festivals as means of entertainment.
c. Tuzuq-i-Jahagiri, Rihala are a few of the important sources.
Overall, these Persian sources not only talk about the Indian condition but also popularized Indian culture worldwide. For example, Dara Shikoh translated Gita and Mahabharata into Persian. They also bring different ideas to the sub-continent. The development of Hindavi and Urdu is very much influenced by the work of Amir Khusro.
All the best for tomorrow’s CSP-2024 Paper
Tomorrow is the test of whatever you have given to this examination in the last one year or maybe more.
So first of all be Proud of yourself that you have dared to face this examination
Some suggestions:
1) A lot can change with confidence and active mind. It can easily decide whether one is getting 80 marks or 100 marks (difference of around 5 ques)
2) Don’t ever judge yourself while still giving your paper. Be in present and give 100%
3)Don’t rush towards the end of examination. 10 minutes is more than sufficient to solve 20-25 questions in 2nd or 3rd iteration/reading.
4) It is generally noticed that we miss the chances of our selection not because of tough questions but due to blunders that we do in easy questions (especially Polity and economy). So don’t rush in easy questions
5) Don’t match/analyse your answers during break, even if you are strong in CSAT. Take CSAT as seriously or may be more than the first paper.
6) I consider attempting around 50 questions in CSAT as best. Temptation to attempt more might lead to silly mistakes.
Also remember that if the paper is tough than it is tough for everyone. Questions are now generally asked to check your analytical skills and static knowledge.
Believe in yourself and take a good nap to remain most active during the vital hours of tomorrow.
Even if you are not able to sleep, in morning convince your mind that you have slept well and you are very active now. (Psychology can play a very important role sometimes)
All the best for the D-day !! 😇
Credit : Shubham Kumar [Rank-1, UPSC'20]
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Sevottam Model
✅Sevottam is a generic framework for achieving excellence in public service delivery. It comprises of 3 modules namely:
✅ Citizen’s Charter
✅ Grievance Redressal Mechanism
✅ Capability Building for Service Delivery
✅The first component of the model requires effective charter implementation thereby opening up a channel for receiving citizens’ inputs into the way in which organizations determine service delivery requirements.
✅ The second component of the model, ‘Public Grievance Redress’ requires a good grievance redress system operating in a manner that leaves the citizen more satisfied with how the organization responds to complaints/grievances, irrespective of the final decision.
✅ The third component ‘Excellence in Service Delivery’, postulates that an organization can have an excellent performance in service delivery only if it is managing the key ingredients for good service delivery well and building its own capacity to continuously improve delivery.
#ethics
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Analyze the impact of India’s support during Bangladesh’s liberation war on their current bilateral relations, assess the ongoing challenges affecting this relationship, and suggest a way forward. (250 words)
India-Bangladesh Relations:
The Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971 marked a pivotal moment in the relationship between India and Bangladesh.
1. Historical Context:
- Liberation War Support: India played a crucial role in providing military assistance and sheltering millions of Bangladeshi refugees during the Liberation War. This historical event laid the foundation for a close relationship between the two countries.
- Formation of Bangladesh: The brutal Pakistani military campaign against the Bangali population led to the breakup of Pakistan and the birth of independent Bangladesh, aided significantly by India's armed forces.
2. Challenges and Ongoing Issues:
- Border Disputes: Despite shared cultural ties, border disputes have strained relations. The enclaves issue, enclaves exchange, and the Teesta River water-sharing dispute remain unresolved.
- Trade and Connectivity: Enhancing trade and connectivity between the two nations is essential. Addressing infrastructural gaps and simplifying cross-border movement can foster economic cooperation.
- Security Concerns: Both countries face common security challenges, including terrorism and transnational crime. Collaborative efforts are crucial to combat these threats.
3. Way Forward:
- Economic Integration: Strengthening economic ties through trade facilitation, investment, and joint infrastructure projects can promote mutual prosperity.
- People-to-People Contacts: Encouraging cultural exchanges, educational collaborations, and tourism can deepen understanding and goodwill.
- Climate Cooperation: Given climate change's impact on both nations, joint efforts in disaster management, water resource management, and climate adaptation are vital.
- Regional Cooperation: Active participation in regional forums (like BIMSTEC and SAARC) can enhance cooperation beyond bilateral relations.
In conclusion, acknowledging the historical bond forged during the Liberation War, addressing challenges, and fostering cooperation across various domains will pave the way for a stronger India-Bangladesh relationship.
Analyze the importance of the recent Supreme Court decision on caste sub-classification in India. How does this judgment address past injustices and promote fair distribution of benefits among disadvantaged groups?
Introduction
In a landmark judgment, the Supreme Court reframed the operation of Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) quotas for the first time since their inception in the Indian Constitution. The decision allows states to create sub-classifications within the SC and ST categories, aiming to provide wider protections to the most backward communities within these groups.
Background:
- Article 341 of the Constitution empowers the President to list SC "castes, races, or tribes" that suffered historical untouchability.
- SC groups collectively receive 15% reservation in education and public employment.
- Some SC groups have been underrepresented compared to others, leading to attempts by states to extend additional protection to these marginalized communities.
Key Points:
1. Sub-Classification Permission:
- The recent ruling permits states to create sub-classifications within the SC and ST categories.
- These sub-classifications allow for fixed sub-quotas, addressing the specific needs of the most backward communities.
- This overturns the 2004 decision in E V Chinnaiah v State of Andhra Pradesh, which considered the SC/ST list as a "homogenous group" that couldn't be further divided.
2. Addressing Past Injustices:
- Historically, certain SC communities faced greater discrimination and exclusion than others.
- Sub-classification acknowledges these disparities and aims to rectify past injustices by ensuring targeted benefits for the most vulnerable groups.
3. Promoting Fair Distribution:
- By allowing sub-quotas, the judgment ensures fairer distribution of reservation benefits.
- States can tailor policies to uplift specific sub-groups, ensuring that benefits reach those who need them the most.
4. Legal Context:
- The 2004 ruling had held that sub-classifying SCs violated the right to equality under Article 14.
- However, the recent judgment recognizes the need for nuanced approaches to address varying levels of disadvantage within the SC and ST communities.
Conclusion:
The Supreme Court's decision on caste sub-classification marks a significant step toward social justice. It acknowledges historical inequities, empowers states to address them, and promotes a more targeted distribution of benefits. By allowing sub-quotas, the judgment strives to create a fairer and more inclusive society.
Hello Everyone
I hope you all are doing well.
Last some days are very traumatic and stressful for all of us because of the tragic incident in ORN.
I hope you all are now in position to revive your study schedule.
From tomorrow, we are starting mains answer writing program again.
This program is different from other years as we are focusing on answer writing practice only for beginners, veterans, etc.
For questions, I'll post by tomorrow morning. you can read related current affairs editorial and write answer within time limit. I'll post my answer in evening. And also if you have any query related to that question then you can ask me, I'll reply daily by evening.
Thank you...
Que . “Development and welfare schemes for the vulnerable, by its nature, are discriminatory
in approach.” Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer. (15 Marks, 250 Words)
Answer: To uphold the value of social justice and to address the many problems faced by vulnerable sections like women, elderly, minorities, tribals, LGBTQ+ etc. government launches various targeted welfare schemes for them.
For example, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao Yojana for girlchild, Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana for elderly etc.
Development and welfare schemes for vulnerable sections- discriminatory in nature:
✅ Targeted Approach: Since these schemes are targeted towards a particular section, they exclude other vulnerable sections who may also require special care.
🔸 For example, Adivasi Mahila Sashaktikaran Yojana provides financial assistance to tribal women which can also be made available to women from general category.
✅ Stigmatisation: By singling out certain groups for assistance, welfare programs can unintentionally stigmatize those groups, perpetuating stereotypes and biases.
🔸 For example, MoW&CD scheme to provide critical care and support to pregnant minor victims of sexual assault
✅ Limited resources: Prioritizing certain vulnerable groups can inadvertently discriminate against others who may also be in need but do not meet the specific criteria.
🔸 For example, Scheme of Girls & Boys Hostels for STs and SCs may deviate attention from other poorer sections who may also require Hostel facilities.
✅ Top-down approach: these schemes are formed at the top level without involvement of the vulnerable section. They may lack a detailed idea of the exact needs and requirements of the vulnerable sections.
✅ Exclusion Errors: Targeted schemes can sometimes result in exclusion errors, where deserving individuals or communities are left out due to inefficiencies.
Development and Welfare schemes promoting positive discrimination:
✅ Achieve equity: The development and welfare schemes recognize that different groups may have different needs and require targeted assistance to achieve equal access to resources and opportunities.
🔸 For example, Standup India scheme to make loans easily available for SCs, STs and women.
✅ Efficiency: Targeting vulnerable groups can be more efficient in terms of resource allocation as the limited resources are directed to those who need them the most.
🔸 For example, distribution of iron-fortified rice to adivasis.
✅ Human Rights and Social Justice: Providing assistance to vulnerable groups can be seen as a way to rectify historical injustices and promote social justice.
✅ Inclusive growth: Welfare schemes promote inclusive growth by providing a safety net that reduces inequality and poverty, enabling marginalized populations to participate more fully in the economy.
🔸For example, schemes like Nai Roshni and Nai Udaan for minorities.
Thus, the welfare schemes may seem discriminatory but if implemented properly, they can help address historical wrongs and promote social equality. Emphasis should be laid on better targeting, avoiding exclusion errors and participatory design of the schemes.
#GS2
#socialjustice
Q) Discuss the potential and challenges associated with air transport in India? 10MM
UNEP foresight report 2024 : navigating new horizons
-- report urges the world to address emerging challenges that could disrupt planetary health.
--- 8 critical global shifts with 18 signals of change accelerating the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution
--- no progress in UN SDG goals such as 85% targets are off track, 37% no progress or regressed, 60% environmental indicators deteriorated .
--- rapidly changing relationship between human and environment led to 90% of land affected by human (2050), temperature rise between 2.1-3.9 ° celcius by 2100
--- scarcity and competition for critical resources
---- AI , digital transformation and technology and it's implications
--- new era of conflicts
--- mass forced displacement 120 million people
---- widening inequalities: 10% hold 75% of wealth
---- misinformation, declining trust and polarization: fake news makes it harder to implement policies .
Recommendations by UNEP
-- strengthen and broadening stakeholders engagement
-- ensure young people in decision making
---- redefining progress beyond GDP
--- community empowerment
----- data driven decision making
---- sustainable prosperity
Q. Persian literary sources of mediaeval India reflect the spirit of the age. Comment?
Persian literature gained prominence during the Delhi Sultanate primarily during the mediaeval era around 12th AD. The writings of Fariq-i-Firuz Shahi, Akbarnama and many more explored the socio-political conditions of that period.
▪️The Persian literature reflects the spirit of the age in the following ways:
1. Political structure of Mediaeval India:
a. Ziauddin Barani’s Tahrik-i- Firoz Shahi about Firoz Shah Tughlaq.
b. Akbar Nama by Abu Fazl.
c. Both described the Political unit at centre, provincial and state level along with the type of administration
during Delhi and Mughal dynasties.
2. Social Aspects: Amir Khusro reflected that:
a. Brahmins were the dominant sections among the Hindus.
b. He also mentions the exploitative nature of the Jizya Tax.
c. He reflected the Ganga-Jamuni Tehzeeb.
3. Religious Aspect:
a. Religious tolerance towards others.
b. Important festivals as means of entertainment.
c. Tuzuq-i-Jahagiri, Rihala are a few of the important sources.
Overall, these Persian sources not only talk about the Indian condition but also popularized Indian culture worldwide. For example, Dara Shikoh translated Gita and Mahabharata into Persian. They also bring different ideas to the sub-continent. The development of Hindavi and Urdu is very much influenced by the work of Amir Khusro.
Q. ‘The emergence of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Digital Revolution) has initiated e-Governance as an integral part of government.’ Discuss. (10 marks)
Fourth Industrial Revolution includes development of new digital technologies that has improved the functioning of society. Components include Artificial Intelligence, Big Data, Machine Learning etc that have been a recent phenomenon.
▪️Role of fourth industrial revolution in integrating e-governance
✅ Easier access to services: Through digital revolution and technology improvement, access to government services has become easier. Latest technology such as cloud computing have improved connectivity issues that had been plaguing digital governance.
✅ Better policy measures: New technology such as Big Data, Data Mining etc has capacity to identify useful aspects from large datasets. This will allow policy makers to make clear distinction between what is useful for the future. This ensures better policy measures.
✅ Faster resolution of grievances: Artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies have helped in evolution of new grievance resolution techniques such as bots. This has led to faster reduction in public issues.
✅ Transparency: Technology growth has created new opportunities for improving transparency in governance. This includes monitoring misgovernance such as corruption or favouritism.
However, the Fourth Industrial Revolution is facing different challenges like: Poor Internet Connectivity, Digital illiteracy and Issue of security and Privacy . The World Economic Forum has launched a Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Industry 4.0) in India.
Government along with other stakeholders should cooperate effectively to use this opportunity to enhance e-governance under the umbrella of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
What are the salient features of the Jal Shakti Abhiyan launched by the Government of India for water consefvation and water security?
(Answer in 150 words)
To tackle the increasing water crisis in the country, GoI launched a time-bound, mission-mode water
conservation campaign namely Jal Shakti Abhiyan (JSA).
▪️Key features:
✅ Aims at making water conservation a Jan Andolan through asset creation and extensive communication.
✅ A collaborative campaign of various Central Ministries and the State Governments being coordinated by the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation (DDWS).
✅ Focuses on accelerated implementation of five targeted interventions
a. Water conservation and rainwater harvesting
b. Renovation of traditional water bodies
c. Reuse and recharge structures
d. Watershed development
e. Intensive afforestation
✅ Development of Block and District Water Conservation Plans.
✅ Encompasses Krishi Vigyan Kendra Melas, to promote efficient water use for irrigation (Per Drop More Crop), and better choice of crops for water conservation.
✅ Promote urban waste water reuse, for industrial and agriculture purposes.
Despite being a wonderful initiative, it has its own issues, such as lack of financial support and absence of any
parameter to measure the outcomes, which needs to be addressed to make it a successful campaign.
"Recent amendments to the Right to Information Act will have profound impact on the autonomy and independence of the Information Commission". Discuss.
(Answer in 150 words)
Recently, some of the sections of RTI like section 13, 16, 27 has been amended, which has the potential to impact the autonomy of the Information commission.
▪️Amendments done:
✅Term of Information Commissioners: The amendment states that the central government will notify the term of office for the CIC and the ICs.
✅Determination of salary: The amendment seeks an amendment to state that the salaries, allowances, and other terms and conditions of service of the central and state CIC and ICs will be determined by the central government.
✅Deductions in salary: The Act states that at the time of the appointment of the CIC and ICs (at the central and state level), if they are receiving pension or any other retirement benefits for previous government service, their salaries will be reduced by an amount equal to the pension.
▪️Impact of such amendment on Autonomy and Independence of the Information Commission:
✅Dismantling of Transparency architecture.
✅ It has been criticised as an RTI elimination bill.
✅It shifts loyalty to the government from the public.
✅The CIC and IC deal with huge vested interest especially in senior bureaucracy, thus the amendment will impinge the working of commission.
✅Doctrine of checks and balances will be impacted.
It is a high time to understand that RTI is enacted not only to subserve but also to ensure freedom of speech, thus implement the recommendation of 2nd ARC - Setting the selection committee comprising of PM, LoP, CJI for the appointment of CIC, rather than destroy the independence of the commission.
The rock-cut architecture represents one of the most important sources of our knowledge of early Indian art and history. Discuss. (Answer in 150 words)
Rock-cut architecture is a significant aspect of Indian art and history, representing one of the most important sources of our knowledge of early Indian civilization. The art of carving out temples, shrines, and other structures from rocks dates back to ancient times and is found in various parts of the country.
▪️The origins of rock-cut architecture can be traced back to the 2nd century BC, during the Mauryan Empire, when Emperor Ashoka commissioned several rock-cut edicts across India. The art form evolved over the centuries, with each region developing its unique style and techniques.
✅ Promotion of Religious Harmony and Unity: Rock-cut architecture showcased religious harmony and unity, as seen in the rock-cut temples of Ellora, which integrated Hindu,
Buddhist, and Jain religions in India.
✅ Facilitation of the Spread of Regional Art and Architecture: Rock-cut architecture spread regional art and architecture by incorporating local styles and techniques. For example, Ajanta's rock-cut caves express regional art and architecture in paintings, sculptures, and frescoes from the 2nd century BCE to 6th century CE.
✅ Promotion of Social Equality: Rock-cut architecture promoted social equality by allowing access to religious structures to people from all social classes. For instance, the rock-cut temples of Elephanta showcased the equal participation of people from different backgrounds in the construction and use of the temple.
✅Inspiration for Various Art Forms: Rock-cut architecture inspired art forms such as sculpture and painting. The Badami caves, built during 6th-8th centuries CE, influenced regional art and architecture.
✅ Influence on Philosophical and Spiritual Traditions: Rock-cut architecture influenced Buddhism and Jainism, emphasizing renunciation. Karla caves reflect Buddhist philosophy of detachment and renunciation.
Conclusion: Rock-cut architecture has not only contributed to the artistic and cultural heritage of India but also provided valuable insights into the social and economic life of ancient India. The preservation and promotion of these structures remain important in preserving India's rich cultural heritage for future generations.
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