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UPSC Mains Previous Year Questions Model Answer and Trend Analysis.Practice make perfect. Official channel - https://t.me/RENAISSANCEIAS
Introduction
Caste refers to a broad hierarchical institutional arrangement along which basic social factors like birth, marriage, food-sharing etc are arranged in a hierarchy of rank and status. These sub-divisions are traditionally linked to occupations and decide the social relations with respect to other upper and lower castes.
The traditional hierarchical ordering of castes was based on the distinction between ‘purity’ and ‘pollution’. While the manifestation of the order has changed to a large extent in the recent times, the system itself has not changed much.
For example- even though untouchability and caste-based discrimination is barred under the Constitution of India, occupations like manual scavenging have the majority of workers from lower castes.
New identities and associational forms
Political: In contrast to the older structure, various caste communities have asserted themselves by forming political parties based on caste identities. For example-
Bahujan Samaj Party. Political mobilization based on caste has been rising.
Lingayats’ demand to be considered as a minority community.
Economic: Development policies targeting the backward castes and scheduled have benefitted only a section of the population. These sections have emerged as the elite and this has created a division within the backward castes. Also, the welfare policies have led to social stigma among the castes which are not included. These policies have strengthened the caste-based mobilization. For example:
Dominant castes like Marathas, kapus and patidars have been demanding reservation.
Socially empowered and landholding communities like Jats have also mobilized themselves and have demanded reservation.
Social: Under the impact of globalization and technological advancement, the strict codes of marriage and inheritance have diluted with more inter-caste marriages taking place. Caste groups like Khap Panchayats have been brought under the scrutiny of the judiciary. The expression of social exclusion and maintaining the caste-based division by the communities has however not vanished but has changed to become more subtle. For example-
The matrimonial advertisements are frequent in the newspapers that especially demand brides and grooms from particular communities.
Even religions that do not follow caste systems like Muslims and Christianity have observed caste-like discrimination. Dalits who have converted to Christianity have separate graveyards in States like Kerala.
Conclusion
Considering that these divisions offer solidarity and psychological strength to various marginalized groups, even if the caste-based discrimination is diffused through the legislative enforcement the divisions of identity will be difficult to erase.
Things that are not expressly forbidden by law or by clear implication are allowed in public administration. If the action promotes good and is not proscribed by any law or is not covered potentially by possible implication of conflict of interest, then it is permitted.
For public servants discharging their duties, the above statement provides a code of conduct for carrying out their responsibilities. ‘Everything which is not forbidden is allowed’ is also a constitutional principle of English law defining the essential freedom of citizens.
The conduct of a civil servant should be free of bias and prejudice. The overriding motive should be ‘public interest’ and conflict of interest should be avoided. As such, doing a good thing is allowed if there is no law against it and if there is no potential or perceived conflict of interest
For example, a public servant such as a District Magistrate endowed with the spirit of service may arrange for refreshment of senior citizens visiting the office for various services. Such a good gesture is not forbidden by law and does not appear to be influenced by any prejudice. Similarly, treating flood-affected victims with more kindness, empathy and understanding and going out of one’s way to help them as long as it does not violate any law is another case of an act within the ambit of the spirit of the statement.
CAG acts as the guardian of public purse and controls the entire gamut of financial administration. Article 148 envisages the post of CAG with a tenure of six years. He is appointed by President and can be removed on the grounds of proved misbehavior or incapacity - on the basis of a resolution passed by a special majority by both the houses of parliament.
Moreover, CAG’s salary and allowances are charged upon Consolidated Fund of India, ensuring immunity from Vote of Parliament. Thus, there are strong inbuilt safeguards available to ensure autonomy for the CAG to effectively discharge its role.
Role of CAG
Conducts legal, regulatory and propriety audit.
Audits expenditure from Contingency Fund, Public Account, Consolidated Fund of India and the states.
Submits audit reports to President and Governor for legislative scrutiny.
Audits the receipts and expenditure of Government companies and entities substantially financed from the Central or State revenues.
Acts as a guide to Public Accounts Committee of Parliament ensuring transparency in financial administration.
Its role as the highest auditing authority is intrinsically linked to the efficacy of government policies by keeping a watch on financial aspect of Good Governance, thereby preserving the democratic ethos.
Answer:
Introduction:
Reservations in India have a rich historical context, evolving over time to address social and economic disparities. The reservation system aims to uplift marginalized communities by providing them with opportunities in education, employment, and political representation.
Historical Development:
- British India and Princely Kingdoms: In the late nineteenth century, India was divided into British India and numerous princely kingdoms. Some progressive states prioritized education, industry, and national unity. However, attention shifted to minorities and impoverished sections in South and Western India.
- Constitutional Goals: India's Constitution sought to ensure equality, brotherhood, and individual dignity. Recognizing that existing provisions weren't sufficient, Article 334 initially reserved seats for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) in legislatures. Subsequent amendments extended this reservation until 2010.
- Scheduled Castes and Tribes (SC/ST) Quotas: The reservation policy extended to SCs and STs in government jobs and educational institutions. This aimed to address their underrepresentation.
-Other Backward Classes (OBCs): However, OBCs needed similar support. The Mandal Commission was established to address their concerns comprehensively.
The Mandal Commission:
- Formation and Objectives: The Socially and Educationally Backward Classes Commission (Mandal Commission) was set up in 1979. Its primary duty was to address OBC issues.
-Criteria for Backward Classes: The Commission systematically identified backward classes based on criteria such as social perception, manual labor dependence, and below-average family assets.
Recommendations:
-27% Reservation: The Mandal Commission recommended 27% reservation for OBCs in public sector and government jobs.
-Promotions: OBCs should also receive 27% reservation at all levels of promotions.
-Carry Forward: Unfilled quota vacancies should be carried forward for up to three years.
-Impact:The Mandal Commission played a vital role in recognizing backward classes and framing affirmative action policies. It aimed to bridge socio-economic gaps and promote inclusivity.
Conclusion:
The reservation system, shaped by historical developments and the Mandal Commission's recommendations, remains a critical tool for social justice in India. While controversies persist, its impact on marginalized communities cannot be overlooked.
Landslides in India: Causes, Types, and Mitigation
Introduction:
Recently Many human lives,flora-fauna losses in Wayanad's landslides. This gives a painful attentive experience for heavy loss. Landslides, gravitational movements of rock masses on slopes, pose significant risks across India. Understanding their causes is crucial for preventive measures.
1.Natural Causes:
- Heavy Rainfall and Earthquakes: Over 40% of the Kumaon Himalayan region is landslide-prone due to earthquakes. Heavy rainfall also triggers landslides, as seen in Maharashtra's Talai village in 2021.
- Snow Melting and Undercutting: Snowmelt and flooding weaken slopes, leading to landslides.
- Geological Factors: Soil types and rock formations play a role, but these remain relatively constant.
2. Human-Induced Factors:
- Deforestation: Indiscriminate tree cutting reduces soil stability. The Himalayan region, with increased deforestation, faces heightened landslide risk.
- Shifting Cultivation: Burning forests for cultivation damages topsoil, making hilly regions vulnerable.
- Mining and Quarrying: Removal of vegetation cover and soil gravel lowers groundwater retention capacity, increasing landslide risk.
- Urbanization: Intensive construction and road projects reduce vegetation cover, contributing to landslides. Dharamshala exemplifies this trend.
3. Regional Variations:
- Western Ghats: Deforestation and heavy rainfall contribute to landslides in states like Maharashtra and Konkan.
- Himalayas: Earthquakes and snowmelt impact this region.
- Southern India: Urbanization and deforestation affect areas like Dharamshala.
Mitigation Measures:
- Afforestation: Increase forest cover to stabilize slopes.
- Catchment Area Management: Store excess water to reduce flash floods and recharge groundwater.
- Urban Planning: Regulate construction to preserve vegetation.
- Early Warning Systems: Monitor ground conditions for timely alerts.
Conclusion:
Balancing development with environmental conservation is essential to mitigate landslide risks. Collaborative efforts can safeguard lives and property in landslide-prone regions.
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. Why do you think the committees are considered to be useful for parliamentary work? Discuss, in this context, the role of the Estimates Committee.
#GS2 #Polity #CSM18
The National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC), a constitutional body set up under Article 338, recently directed the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) to provide reservations for SC/ST and OBC category students. Till now, AMU did not provide reservations since it is considered a religious minority institution under article 30.
This is because minority educational institutions, which have a 50 per cent reservation for students belonging to a minority community, do not have to provide reservations for SC/ST and OBC category students. The Supreme Court, in July 2018, upheld this. It drew light to Article 15(5), introduced by the 93rd Constitutional Amendment Act.
According to Article 15(5), the state is empowered to make special provisions for the advancement of scheduled castes regarding their admission to educational institutions, except in the minority educational institutions.
Therefore, the according to the Constitution of India, minority institutions under Article 30 shall be exempt from constitutional reservations for the Scheduled Castes. As a result, it would be unconstitutional for NCSC to enforce implementation of constitutional reservation in the religious minority institutions.
Values are essential components of organisational culture and are instrumental in determining, guiding and informing behaviour. For bureaucracies, adherence to high-level public service values can generate substantial public trust and confidence. Some basic, universal values include:
▪️Integrity and Honesty: Integrity is putting the obligations of public service above your own personal interests. Civil servants should be guided solely by public interest in their official decision making and not by any financial or other consideration either in respect of themselves, their families or their friends.
▪️Objectivity, Impartiality and Political Neutrality: Civil servants in carrying out their official work, including functions like procurement, recruitment, delivery of services etc. should take decisions based on merit and free from any partisan/political consideration.
▪️Commitment to Public Service: Civil servants should deliver services in a fair, effective, impartial and courteous manner to serve the larger public interest. The dedication to the public welfare cause is crucial.
Integrity, dedication to public service, impartiality, political neutrality, anonymity, accountability, devotion to duty, exemplary behaviour etc. are said to be the hallmarks of an efficient civil service
Detailed Answer Writing Strategy
1. Understanding the Question
• Identify Keywords: Words like "analyze," "discuss," "critically evaluate," etc., define the approach.
• Discuss: Provide a balanced overview of the topic.
• Analyze: Break down the topic into components and examine each part.
• Critically Analyze: Examine both positive and negative aspects and provide a balanced judgment.
• Elucidate: Explain clearly and in detail.
• Evaluate: Assess the value or impact, often involving both positive and negative points.
• Address All Parts: Ensure that every part of the question is answered comprehensively.
2. Structuring the Answer
• Introduction:
• Define the Terms: If the question involves specific terms or concepts, start with their definitions.
• Provide Context: Set the context of the question, which may include historical background, current relevance, etc.
• Thesis Statement: Briefly state what your answer will cover.
• Body:
• Use Subheadings: Organize content under clear subheadings
• Use of Examples: Support arguments with relevant examples, case studies, and data.
• Diagrams and Maps: Where appropriate, include diagrams, flowcharts, and maps to enhance understanding and presentation.
• Balanced Approach: Cover multiple perspectives – economic, social, political, environmental, etc.
• Conclusion:
• Summarize Main Points: Briefly recap the key points discussed.
• Forward-Looking Statements: Offer suggestions, future implications, or concluding thoughts.
3. Content Quality
• Depth of Knowledge: Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the subject.
• Relevance: Stay focused on what is asked, avoiding unnecessary details.
• Current Affairs: Integrate recent developments, government schemes, and data.
• Multidimensional Analysis: Address issues from various dimensions – historical, geographical, social, economic, political, environmental, and ethical.
4. Presentation
• Clarity and Precision: Use simple, clear, and concise language.
• Handwriting: Ensure that your handwriting is legible.
• Formatting: Use bullet points, underlining, and highlighting (if permitted) to emphasize key points.
5. Answer Writing Practice
• Regular Practice: Write answers daily to build speed and clarity.
• Peer Review: Exchange answers with peers for feedback.
• Mock Tests: Participate in mock tests to simulate exam conditions and get professional evaluations.
• Previous Year Papers: Practice writing answers to previous year’s questions to understand the pattern and difficulty level.
Credit Gagan Singh Meena IAS
Q.Discuss the impact of post-liberal economy on ethnic identity and communalism.
#GS1 #IndianSociety #CSM23
Education, skill and employment are three very closely linked activities that are crucial for an individual and imperative for nation building.
Linkages between education, skill and employment
▪️Education acts as a beginning step for the basis of a civil life. It is crucial for adequate development of an individual and gives a citizen the basis to gain rightful employment.
▪️Basic and higher education plays respective roles in equipping individual with a knowledge base, upon which they can gain specialised knowledge for a profession.
▪️
Skill development is the activity of garnering necessary vocational or technical skills that have direct applicability in an industry thereby leading to successful employment. For example, certification of C++ can offer better chances of employability.
▪️Soft skills are a subset of skills that have garnered interest in the past decades and are essential today for modern job market.
▪️Skill development can also lead one not only to employment but also entrepreneurship that enables one to create jobs eventually.
▪️Employment is the eventual goal of education and skill development. Employment is necessary for the growth of a nation. Employment is a necessary indicator of the health of an economy. Better employment shows higher prospects of growth for the nation.
Both education and skill development train an individual adequately to help them get employed.
▪️Companies today follow a pattern of upskilling a hired person to make them better at their job.
Various skill development programmes such as Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana and National Skill Development Mission have helped the industry receive skilled workers; in other words, they have succeeded in increasing human resources supply to various sectors.
Urbanization in India has become an inescapable ordeal.The model of building a developed city comprises unplanned development, which only bolsters the dichotomy prevailing in urban cities between the rich and the poor. Although segregation and marginalization differ from region to region.
How Urbanisation lead to segregation of poor:
▪️Income Disparities: Urbanization often results in income inequalities, with limited affordable housing options for the poor, leading to spatial segregation.
▪️Inadequate Housing Policies: Poorly planned urbanization and inadequate housing policies can lead to the concentration of slums
Employment
▪️ Opportunities: The concentration of employment opportunities in specific urban areas can force the poor to settle in marginalized neighborhoods due to job proximity.
▪️Social Stigma: Social biases and stigma can play a role in segregating the poor as they are often pushed to the peripheries of urban centers.
How urbanization leads to marginalization:.
▪️Lack of Social Services: Inadequate provision of essential services like healthcare, education, and sanitation in urban slums further marginalizes the urban poor.
▪️Land Displacement: Urban development projects often displace poor communities without proper compensation or alternative housing options.
▪️Health Disparities: Overcrowded and unsanitary living conditions in slums contribute to health issues, with limited access to quality healthcare exacerbating the problem.
▪️Social Discrimination: The urban poor may face discrimination and social exclusion based on their economic status and background.
Government Initiatives to tackle segregation and marginalization of poor -
Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana
Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation
Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana
Though steps are being taken at various levels, success of these will depend on better policy implementation ,community participation and continuous advocacy for the rights of the urban poor.
Ramsar Convention is an international treaty for the conservation and sustainable utilization of wetlands. A wetland listed under the Convention is called wetlands international importance. Important Ramsar sites in India include the following:
▪️Karikili bird sanctuary (Tamil Nadu): It is home to cormorants, grey heron and open-billed stork.
Pichavaram mangrove (Tamil Nadu): It is an island of vast mangrove forest.
▪️Chandra Taal: It is one of the two high altitude Ramsar wetlands.
The National Wetland Conservation Programme (NWCP) was initiated to protect wetlands considering the benefits provided by them such as freshwater supply, resource pool, biodiversity, flood control, groundwater recharge, and climate change mitigation. The NWCP seeks to conserve wetlands and prevent degradation while providing local communities access to the benefits provided by them.
Importance of NWCP
▪️The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MOEFCC) has identified 115 wetlands that require urgent conservation and management.
▪️It defines wetlands in the same way as prescribed under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands.
▪️While wetlands are administered by state governments, the central government is responsible for funds, technical assistance and overall coordination.
Objectives of NWCP
▪️Laying down policy guidelines for conservation and management of wetlands.
▪️Preparing and maintaining inventory of wetlands.
▪️Allocation of financial assistance to states.
▪️Monitoring the implementation of the program.
▪️Sponsoring multidisciplinary research by institutions.
▪️The National Wetlands Conservation Programme (NWCP) and National Lake Conservation Plan (NLCP) were merged under National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic Eco-systems (NPCA) to synergise efforts and avoid overlap of administration. India had achieved a great deal in safeguarding its wetlands.
Since the inception of the 1st five-year plan, the government has worked on a plethora of welfare schemes for the vulnerable sections of the society. While these schemes are beneficial to a particular section, protest against them are not unheard of.
The concept of positive discrimination
▪️It is the act of providing benefits to a particular section of society, based on a history of discrimination against them.
▪️For example, providing reservations to Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribes compensating for the inhuman treatment they have went through in the past.
▪️This approach focuses on ‘Equity’ rather than ‘Equality’, thereby recognizing the difference in the requirements of groups to reach a certain standard of living.
Why it is needed
▪️Past disadvantages of certain communities made them so deprived that without affirmative action it is difficult to enhance their social, educational, political and economic levels.
▪️Geographical differences in India make it necessary to provide additional benefits to certain locations.
▪️For example, the Northeast Special Infrastructure Development Scheme (NESIDS).
▪️Gender inequalities have existed in our nation for very long, with problems such as female infanticide and child marriage being embedded in the very fabric of our society.
▪️Therefore, schemes such as Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao and Kishori Shakti Yojna are important.
▪️Economic differences throughout the society that seemingly have their roots in the caste system make it very difficult for the disadvantaged groups to come out of the deep economic pit. Dedicated economic upliftment plans are needed to support these groups.
▪️For example, Jan Dhan Yojna and merit-based scholarships to SC/ST students.
Therefore, while it is true that welfare schemes for the vulnerable are indeed discriminatory in nature, it must be kept in mind that this ‘positive discrimination’ is done to compensate for the decades of injustice that had been done against them.
Q.Caste system is assuming new identities and associational forms. Hence, caste system cannot be eradicated in India”.
#GS1 #IndianSociety #CSM18
Q.“In doing a good thing, everything is permitted which is not prohibited expressly or by clear implication.” Examine the statement with suitable examples in the context of a public servant discharging his/her duties.
#GS4 #Ethics #CSM18
Q. The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) has a very vital role to play.” Explain how this is reflected in the method and terms of his appointment as well as the range of powers he can exercise
#GS2 #Polity #CSM18
Q. Examine the historical development and legal structure of the reservation system in India. Emphasize the suggestions made by the Mandal Commission and their effects on reservation policies. (250 words).
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Q .Analyze the reasons behind landslides in India, considering both natural and human-induced elements. How do these factors differ across various parts of the country?(250 words)
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The functions of Parliament are varied, complex and voluminous. It has neither time nor expertise to control to make a detailed scrutiny of all legislative measures and other matters. Therefore, it is assisted by a number of committees in discharge of its duties. These committees fulfil several objectives:
These help Parliament in managing its business in a better way. It is easier to examine a topic in depth by a committee of 30 than by an assembly of 700.
These enable inputs from experts and also directly from people. For example, the Departmental Standing Committees often invite comments from the public and call people to testify.
A related advantage in the Indian context is that the anti-defection law does not apply to committees — therefore, decisions are not usually made on party lines.
These committees allow members to focus on some specific areas and build their expertise, which helps them scrutinise issues more thoroughly.
These keep an unremitting vigil over Government expenditure and performance. For e.g. Public Accounts Committee.
Role of the Estimates Committee
Estimates Committee compromises of 30 members solely from Lok Sabha. Its main agenda is to examine the estimates included in the budget and suggest economies in public expenditure. It suggests alternative policies in order to bring about the efficiency and economy in administration. It brings to the notice of the Parliament, the ineffectiveness of the policy and need for changes in policy.
However, the effectiveness of the role of the committee is limited by the followings-
It cannot question the policy laid down by the Parliament.
It examines the budget estimates only alter they have been voted by the Parliament, and not before that.
Its recommendations are advisory and not binding on the ministries.
Cases related to self-incrimination:
✅ Selvi vs. State of Karnataka (2010): SC has put restrictions on Narco analysis and brain mapping.
However, DNA testing and other samples can be taken.
✅ Ritesh Sinha versus State of Uttar Pradesh (2019): SC broadened the parameters of handwriting samples to include voice samples, adding that this would not violate the right against self-incrimination.
✅In 2022, Supreme Court Upholds Amendments to Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA): The Supreme Court upheld the key amendments granting extensive powers of summons, arrest, and raids to the government and the Enforcement Directorate (ED).
#mains
Q.Whether National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) can enforce the implementation of constitutional reservation for the Scheduled Castes in the religious minority institutions? Examine.
#GS2 #Polity #CSM18
Q. (a) State the three basic values, universal in nature, in the context of civil services and bring out their importance.
#GS4 #Ethics #CSM18
The concept of a post-liberal economy in India, characterized by economic reforms and liberalization that commenced in the early 1990s, has given rise to a complex and multifaceted phenomenon, particularly in relation to its influence on ethnic identity and communalism, in the backdrop of globalization.
Impact on Ethnic Identity:
Positive:
▪️Economic Empowerment: Increased access to economic opportunities has allowed individuals from various ethnic backgrounds to improve their socio-economic status.
Cultural Exchange: Post-liberal economy has facilitated greater cultural exchange due to increased trade, tourism, and connectivity, leading to greater intercultural understanding.
▪️Entrepreneurship and Regional Identity: Economic liberalization has encouraged entrepreneurship, allowing regions with distinct ethnic identities to promote their unique products and traditions.
▪️Negative:
Economic Disparities: Economic growth has not been uniform across ethnic groups, leading to income disparities and potential marginalization of certain communities.
▪️Cultural Homogenization: The spread of global consumer culture through liberalization can erode traditional ethnic customs and identities.
▪️Regional Disparities: Economic liberalization may concentrate wealth and development in certain regions, leaving others economically disadvantaged.
▪️Impact on Communalism:
Positives:
Urbanization and Migration: Promote social integration and reduce the influence of communalism.
▪️Education and Awareness: Access to better education and information can foster a more informed and tolerant society, diminishing communal tensions.
▪️Negative:
Media and Technology: Can be used to propagate divisive ideologies and amplify communal tensions.
▪️Rural-Urban Divide: Economic liberalization can lead to a rural-urban divide, with rural areas feeling left behind, potentially fueling communal sentiments.
Consumerism: Materialistic values associated with consumerism may overshadow cultural and social values, contributing to a breakdown in community cohesion.
Therefore if on one hand post liberal economy has ushered the country into the era of development and prosperity but at the same time its effect on ethnic identity and communalism has created new faultlines. It needs to be tackled following the value of brotherhood as mentioned in the preamble
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.
#art_and_culture [ 2020 PYQ ]
#CSM1
Q.Skill development programmes have succeeded in increasing human resources supply to various sectors. In the context of the statement, analyse the linkages between education, skill and employment.
#GS2 #SocialDevelopment #CSM23
Q.Does urbanization lead to more segregation and/or marginalization of the poor in Indian metropolises?
#GS1 #IndianSociety #CSM23
Q. Comment on the National Wetland Conservation Programme initiated by the Government of India and name a few of India’s wetlands of international importance included in the Ramsar Sites.
#GS3 #Environment #CSM23
Q. Development and welfare schemes for the vulnerable, by its nature, are discriminatory in approach.” Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer.
#GS2 #SocialJustice #CSM23