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General Studies Answer Writing Challenge PDF
General Studies Answer Writing Challenge PDF
Credits:
Insightsonindia Team
All those who wrote answers and contributed
Note:
Prepared by AK Musham
Q) Examine the effect communism had on China after Mao Zedong’s death. (200
Words)
1) Communism in China had never been in the classic Marxist-Leninist mould. Maoism
was considered to be Communism modified according to Chinese conditions. This
was also at the root of the Soviet Sino split. However Maoist ideas like forced
collectivisation and industrialisation had a deadly effect on Chinese society and
economy.
2) After Mao's death, his widow and the so-called Gang of Four were sidelined and
Deng Xiaoping took over. Deng stressed on "socialism" (as distinct from
communism) with Chinese characteristics. It is to Deng's credit that instead of
adopting doctrinaire policies like Pol Pot's forced agriculture or the North Korean
Juche, he prodded China on to building its core competencies.
3) Modernisation in agriculture, industry, science and military was encouraged. Deng
also promoted the Export Manufacturing Zones (or SEZs) to produce globally
competitive goods.
4) This changed the face of hitherto poor Southern provinces like Guangdong. Entrepot
trade was encouraged at the Shanghai Port which grew to become one of the largest
in the world. Small scale manufacturing of consumer goods proved to be the
backbone of China's sustained economic growth under Deng.
5) The increasing prosperity and the winds of change in the broader Communist world
led to a student led movement at Tiananmen Square in 1989. This was brutally
crushed by the Chinese state. The Government cracked down on political dissent
while promising economic gains and employment in return for support. This has
served the Communist Party well over the last quarter century.
Q) What is New Regionalism? Explain the differences between old and new
regionalism in international relations. (200 Words)
Ans: AK Musham
2) A few examples:
a) Cultural – SAARC; South Asian Countries; Socio-cultural development of the
region
b) Security – SCO; Eurasian; Security, Military, Economic and Cultural Cooperation
c) Economic – NAFTA; North America; Economic Cooperation
1) Offshore drilling for oil has a long history especially considering the rich deposits
found on Continental Shelves. However its environmental record has been more
chequered.
a) Petroleum ooze that leaks out during drilling kills birds and mammals. It destroys
the oceanic flora and has a debilitating effect on the fish population. It stains
beaches on the coast and also ends up having an effect on the local tourist
economy.
b) The lubricating hydraulic oil used in drills is extremely poisonous. When it
leaks in sensitive areas, it can finish off large populations of endangered species.
c) Even the trapped sea-bed water that is generally released as harmless has an oil
content that is enough to adversely affect local biology.
2) While offshore drilling has become a lot safer with technological advancements,
companies still seek to cut costs by compromising on safety standards. Rusty pipes,
lack of proper sealants, careless disposal of carbon waste are the major issues that
need to be addressed by offshore riggers.
Ans: by SSB
Tourism linked with environment is complex. It has both positive & negative aspects.
1) Merits: It has the potential to contribute towards protection & awareness about
environment as in:
a) Revenue earned in the form of park entrance fees can be attributed towards
conservation & management of environment.
i) E.g. Safari World in Thailand utilizes the charges to maintain the forest.
b) It plays key role in spreading environmental information & raising awareness
about consequence of their actions.
i) E.g, Schools, Colleges take their wards out to wildlife sanctuaries or forests to
learn about them.
c) In order to maintain attractiveness, natural areas are kept alive by preserving
them.
i) E.g, in Hawaii, new laws & regulations were enacted to preserve native
species.
2) Demerits: Negative impacts occur when we try to utilise the environment beyond the
limit.
b) Natural calamity –
i) Excessive Infrastructure building over utilises materials, hampers smooth flow
of water causing desalination & soil erosion threatening environment.
ii) E.g, Uttarakhand disaster.
c) Waste accumulations & gradual development of dead zone in wetlands & forest
causes health hazards.
3) Therefore, we must savvy that beauty of tourism can exist only if we sustain our
environment
Ans: by akmusham
1) Besides the beneficial aspects such as replenishing the soil, floods for Assam
represent virtually an annual scourge, with their after-effects persisting even longer
than elsewhere. 40 percent of Assam is classified as flood-prone.
2) Having a special geomorphic environment and Tropical Monsoon Rainforest Climate,
Assam experiences heavy rainfall. During floods, the Brahmaputra and the Barak,
along with their major tributaries and innumerable sub-tributaries, have periodically
caused huge losses to infrastructure, wildlife, livestock, crops etc.
3) Being one of the richest biodiversity zones in the world and home to two UNESCO
World Heritage sites – the Kaziranga National Park and the Manas Wildlife
Sanctuary, Assam has conserved the one-horned Indian rhinoceros from near
extinction, along with the Pygmy hog, tiger and numerous species of birds. It
provides one of the last wild habitats for the Asian elephant and has the largest
population of the Wild Water Buffalo in the world.
4) Hundreds of animals die every year due to floods. Deaths in floods are part of the
natural process. But poaching poses a major threat now. When flood waters enter,
animals flee from the core of the Park to the higher uplands where they become an
easy prey for poachers. They get starved due to lack of food. Water contamination
due to decaying dead animals aggravates their plight. Poachers take advantage of the
situation and target animals, particularly the one-horned rhinos which stray out of the
park during the high floods.
Q) Write a note on the impact of climate change on the flora and fauna of
Himalayas. (200 Words)
Ans: by Rushnaf
1) The Himalayan region is most sensitive to climate change. Studies have reported that
rate of temperature increase across them is 3 times the global average, while the
present annual change is +0.06 degrees Celsius. Global warming has caused an
adverse impact on the biotic and abiotic components due to glacial retreat, disease
infestations and change in agricultural patterns.
a) Upward migration:
i) Gradual warming has forced upward migration causing reduced range sizes
and distribution limits of species.
ii) It causes endemism and extinction in higher elevation species.
b) Population decline:
i) The breeding season and reproductive strategies have changed due to warmer
temperatures and altered habitats, leading to reduced reproductive rates and a
population decline.
ii) Irregular rainfall pattern poses serious threats, especially to amphibians.
c) Skewed sex-ratio:
i) As higher temperature favours female individuals, the sex ratio has become
biased.
ii) It can disrupt the population dynamics of various species.
d) Invasive species:
i) With upward migration, the influx of exotics has threatened the local
diversity.
ii) The prey-predator relationship and food chain is also affected by non-native
species.
e) Wildlife encroachment:
i) Climate change has affected habitats and food availability for wild animals.
ii) It has thus caused encroachment around human habitations in search for food.
f) Shifting tree lines:
i) Elevational distribution of life zones would shift significantly.
ii) Evergreen forests would decrease and tropical lowland forest, increase.
3) Thus, urgent steps are required to combat the effects of climate change, preserve the
natural habitats and address the issues of the flora and fauna of sensitive species-rich
ecosystems.
a) Air pollution:
i) Release of benzene, toluene, xylene, CO, nitrogen oxides and other metals due
to the drilling operations leaves a huge impact paving way for numerous
poisonous chemicals getting released to the atmosphere leading to several
disorders among the humans.
b) Water pollution:
i) Chemical additives being used in drilling produces millions of gallons of toxic
fluid which pollutes the water bodies.
c) Soil and oil spill contamination:
i) Chemically stained soil from drilling waste has increased to a high level over
the past decade leading to soil contamination.
d) There are other impacts like contamination of groundwater, methane pollution,
earthquakes, blowouts due to gas explosion, exposure to toxic chemicals etc.
3) Adoption of a sound National Energy Policy will help prevent many of these impacts
on environment.
Ans 1: by MJ
1) The Sunderbans, being the largest mangrove islands in the world, is home to a large
number of flora and fauna- both terrestrial and aquatic. Since mangroves are known
for being able to protect human population from the bad effects of natural disasters
because of a variety of vegetation, they themselves are prone to being destroyed.
Some effects of cyclones are mentioned below:
a) Uprooting of trees can lead to damage of infrastructure- cell towers, buildings,
water vessels etc., death of animals and erosion further increasing salinity.
2) Measures to reduce the impact plus increase disaster preparedness need to be taken to
ensure that Sunderbans can be saved. As the region around Sunderbans is highly
prone to natural calamities a number of cyclones have hit the region in the past. These
include Bhola, Khulna, Sidr and others. Super cyclone Sidr is the most recent one to
hit the region in the year 2007.
3) The kind of devastation it manifested over the region can be summarized as follows
a) It killed around 5000 people in the region and rendered thousands homeless.
b) ¼th of the forest area was destroyed. 8-10% of the forest had been damaged
completely and 15% partly damaged.
c) Forest area infrastructure including administrative buildings such as Range,
Station, Patrol Posts and forest camps were severely damaged. Important
documents were lost and many communication towers destroyed.
d) A large amount of wildlife was washed away by the cyclone. Ponds were infested
with salt water which made the water non potable for animals. Broken trees
restricted the movement of animals which in turn created food scarcity.
e) Infrastructure facilities developed by tour operators were destroyed leading to a
fall in tourism which in turn lowered the revenue earnings out of tourism.
Ans 2: by Gurukumar
1) Sundarban forests are a large contiguous block of mangrove forests which lie in
regions facing south west part of Bay of Bengal. The region is home to wild animals
including tigers. Sundarban apart from providing livelihood for the population in
vicinity, to large extent is helpful in protecting the environment for instance; it
maintains the coastal water quality by filtering pollutants and by slowing the water
flow which facilitates deposition of sediments.
Q) Write a critical note on the impact of climate change on Arctic ecosystem. (200
Words)
Ans: by Navya
1) Climate change is faster and more severe in the Arctic than in most of the rest of the
world with the warming rate twice that of the global average. Slight increase in
temperature(even 2 degree Celsius) because of increase in alarming rate of global
warming results in melting of glaciers, forest fires, damage to the coastal
communities in the Arctic contributing to increase in sea level.
2) Climate change can alter several of the environmental factors to which arctic plant
species have become adapted.
a) E.g: Some species can carry metabolic and reproductive processes just above or
below 0 degree Celsius.
3) As the arctic climate increases it will suppress the vegetation already growing there
which will affect the animal species dependent on the vegetation.
4) Climate change would affect the symbiotic relationship between insects and plants as
warmer climate could result in early flowering of the plant which would affect the
insects.
5) The formation of ice crusts on the grazing grounds at the different time period could
result in lack of food and starvation.
6) It will affect the migratory birds as it will lead to increase in cloud formation and
greater precipitation.
7) Life in seas gets affected as increase in temperature would disturb the spawning and
distribution of young fish, along with change in algal bloom and also increase in Co2
adds to ocean acidification affecting coral reefs and crustaceans.
8) Immediate cut in green house gas emissions can only prevent the catastrophic change,
if not done warmer climate will affect the entire Arctic ecosystem leading to a huge
disaster.
Q) Examine the major threats faced by Amazon rainforests. Write a note on the
consequences of reduced forest cover in Amazon rainforest region. (200 Words)
3) The consequences of reduced forest cover in the Amazon basin are catastrophic.
a) Decline in precipitation-The whole biome of the broader North Latin American
system depends on the freshwater discharged by Amazon. This can alter
completely.
b) Loss of biodiversity- More species are found in the Amazonian basin than in all of
the remaining Americas. Once lost these will never be recovered.
c) Brazil will face a freshwater crisis of enormous proportions for its growing
population.
4) The forests are the world's largest carbon sink. Their loss will lead to an immediate
rise in Global Warming.
Q) Until 1960, many rated the Aral Sea as the 4th largest inland sea, alongside the
Caspian Sea, and Lakes Victoria and Superior. Today this sea is completely dried
up and has turned up into a poisonous desert. Critically examine the reasons behind
this and suggest solutions to revive this sea. (200 Words)
Ans: by Navya
1) Until 1960, Aral Sea was rated as the 4th largest inland sea, other three being the
Caspian Sea, Lakes Victoria and Superior.
2) Today this sea is completely dried up and has turned up into a poisonous desert.
4) Some steps suggested by experts to bring back Aral to it’s previous level:
a) Cultivating crops other than cotton that will consume less water.
b) Installing dams to fill the Aral Sea which will help it to get back to the previous
level.
c) Redirecting water from the Volga, Ob and Irtysh Rivers to restore the Aral Sea
which was in its full level 20-30 years back.
d) Using fewer chemicals and pesticides while growing cotton so that it doesn’t turn
into a poisonous desert.
Q) Examine the impact of global warming on the wetlands and explain the
importance of wetlands in the mitigation of climate change. (200 Words)
Ans: by SSB
1) Wetland is a distinct feature of ecosystem which is rich with species & other complex
environments. However, they are threatened by global warming like rising
temperature, CO2, melting glaciers & ice cover. The effect of same can be seen as
below:-
a) Reduced water & rise in temperature will lead to fall in oxygen which implies risk
of reduction or distribution of amphibians & aquatic species as they try to find out
their climatic optima. It can also disturb wetland plants. It can be converted into
dead zone & thus contribute harmful algal species.
b) Sea level rise threatens many coastal wetlands with little room to move inland due
to coastal development. Floods, droughts, hurricanes will alter water flow & thus
disturb composition of nutrients in wetlands.
i) E.g. Hurricane Katrina destroyed Louisiana's coastal wetlands.
2) Extensive restoration of wetlands has great potential to minimize the impact of global
warming as below:
a) It minimizes storm flows & keep stream temperature down thus hurricane
strength in coastal areas can be dissolve to some extent. It also helps to control
flood.
b) Mangroves & marshes have ability to sink carbon thus improve water quality. It
also serves as sediment & provides crucial repositories.
3) Moreover, effective monitoring will minimize the loss of our extensive biodiversity.
Q) Tropical cyclones are classified and named differently in different parts of the
world. Examine how low pressure systems are classified by the Indian
Meteorological Department and explain the criteria used to name tropical cyclones
as accepted by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). (200 Words)
Ans: by Lloyd
1) Low pressure systems over Indian Ocean are classified by the IMO on the basis of
a) maximum sustained wind speeds associated with the system and
b) the pressure deficit/number of closed isobars associated with the system
2) The pressure criteria are used, when the system is over land and wind criteria is used,
when the system is over the sea.
a) Low - The system is called as low if there is one closed isobar in the interval of 2
hPa.
b) Depression - It is called depression, if there are two closed isobars, a deep
depression, if there are three closed isobars and cyclonic storm if there are four or
more closed isobars.
3) The international panel on tropical cyclones led by the WMO has formed a committee
of scientists hailing from Middle East and South Asia decides name for cyclones.
5) Each country gets its turn for naming a cyclone and a name is suggested by the
general public of that particular country or its government.
a) E.g. This year, cyclone Hudhud was suggested by Oman.
b) Hudhud stands for the Hoophoe bird which lives in the Middle East.
c) The cyclone Phailin which had hit the Indian coast in 2013 was named by
Thailand.
1) Volcanic activity causes the magma or the molten rock inside the earth's surface to be
ejected out in to the atmosphere. The material ejected out of volcanoes constitute
gases, ashes, smoke, magma, water vapour, pyroclastic material, etc.
2) Volcanic activity is an important source of information regarding the composition of
the interior of the earth. It has helped scientist in predicting and analysing the
structure of the earth.
3) Volcanism also contributes to the formation of new rocks. The surface rocks when
comes in contact with hot molten lava undergoes restructuring of its inner
composition due to thermal effect.
4) Volcanic activity played an important role in the primordial times in degassification
of the earth by pouring out water vapour and CO2 into the atmosphere. This
subsequently caused the large rainfall leading to filling up the depression of the earth
by forming oceans.
5) However, volcanoes also have detrimental effect on the environment. The smoke and
dust ejected from them pollutes the air and remains suspended over the atmosphere
for very long time. This reduces the amount of sunlight reaching the surface. The
gases like sulphur and nitrogen causes acid rain which again affects the vegetation
and soil profile of the region.
Q) Compare and contrast the nature of regionalism in Asia and Europe. (200
Words)
Ans: by madforias
1) There is a deep contrast between the nature of regionalism in Asia and Europe.
a) Europe has seen a blood thirsty fight for ideology where governments were
collaborating against their own countrymen, followed by two devastating world
wars that shook the base of Europe and made them rethink over sovereignty wars.
i) This led to the greater cooperation at the political as well as economic level
within Europe.
b) However, Regionalism in Asia is mostly driven by Economic Cooperation due to
two prime reasons.
2) Despite differences in Political regionalism, the ASEAN and Europe have shown a
similarity on economic regionalism by using a cooperation method to facilitate each
other’s trade.
1) Globalization is not new for the world, it happened several times in the past and had a
profound influence on the lives of the people and became a cause for different
conflicts.
2) Globalization is not just interconnecting economies of different states but is
revolution itself. In 18th and 19th century Europe when it got industrialized and sought
market and raw materials, it led to colonialism and first ever globalization.
a) So what in Europe started as protestant movements against Church authority, have
later spread to different parts of the world through globalization.
b) It threatened the very structure and composition of society which was mostly
dictated by religion and there by came in conflict with religion.
3) Those who accepted this change were called modernists and others orthodox. These
modernists themselves called secularists, whose meaning is debated till now.
4) Globalization, which seeks efficiency and profit making, led to secularist societies
because of which religion revivalism occurred in different parts of the world.
Ans: by Lloyd
1) Make in India policy of the new government includes 25 sectors including defence
manufacturing.
2) It seeks to attract foreign investment in defence in order to make India a hub in
defence manufacturing. It also aims to cut down fiscal deficit by reducing defence
related imports. The opening of the strategic defence sector for private sector
participation will help foreign original equipment manufacturers to enter into strategic
partnerships with Indian companies and leverage the domestic markets and also aim
at global business. Besides helping build domestic capabilities, this will bolster
exports in the long term.
Q) In the light of recent border skirmishes between China and India, discuss about
the existing mechanism to resolve border disputes without escalating them into
military confrontations. (200 Words)
1) The recent border skirmishes between India and China result due to lack of clear
demarcation of Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the Aksai Chin region.
2) However, both countries have agreed not to use force and exercise maximum self-
restraint in a face-off situation.
a) 1993 Agreement between India and China on the Maintenance of Peace and
Tranquility along the LAC.
b) 1996 Agreement between the two countries on Confidence Building Measures
(CBM) in the Military Field along the LAC, including the protocol and modalities
for implementation of CBMs signed in 2005.
c) 2012 Agreement on the Establishment of a Working Mechanism for Consultation
and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs.
d) 2013 Border Defence Cooperation Agreement (BDCA).
4) Realising that 21st century is an Asian century; the two giants of Asia acknowledge
the need to maintain peace, stability and tranquility along the LAC and to continue
implementing CBMs.
a) At the military level, regular flag meetings between border personnel of both
sides are held to prevent such face-off situations.
b) At the diplomatic level, rounds of talks between Special Representatives of both
countries are held to give effect to the existing mechanisms and expedite the
border dispute resolution
Ans: by Lloyd
1) The act of 2014, replaces the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act,
2000. It seeks to address the objectives of United Nations Convention of the Rights of
Children ratified by India in 1992.
2) It specifies procedures to be followed in cases of children in conflict with law and
those in need of care and protection and seeks to address challenges in the existing
Act.
4) In India due to abject poverty and illiteracy many parents are not even able to provide
even basic facilities such as food and education to children. Many children more
importantly girls drop out of schools at primary level itself due to social taboo. Such
children become vulnerable to drug addiction, crime and sexual abuse. Many children
are sexually abused, most of the time by their own near and dear ones.
5) Many are left orphaned and loitering on the streets while many others are lured into
begging by begging syndicates. Many children are molested by pedophiles. RTE,
2009 hasn’t impacted the lives of many children.
6) Therefore, a comprehensive law is required for empowerment of vulnerable children
so that the most precious years of their lives aren’t ruined due to apathy of the state
and society.
Ans: by Rushnaf
2) In the present scenario, initiatives have been undertaken to ensure consumer rights
such as:
a) Consumer Protection Act, 1986
b) BCSBI’s Codes of Banks’ Commitments
c) Consumer Courts
d) Regulatory agencies – SEBI, IRDA, RBI, MCA
3) However, it has been observed that quality of delivered service needs improvements.
An indicator has been the enormous amount of complaints registered.
4) The draft Charter of Consumer Rights, circulated by the RBI, is aimed to
safeguard the customers from discrimination and spells out the responsibilities of the
Financial Services Provider (FSP), which includes all entities regulated the Reserve
Bank. Ex: Banks, NBFCs etc.
5) The Charter has been framed based on best global practices, due to need for consumer
protection, which is an integral part of financial inclusion. The need for consumer
protection is felt due to
a) High financial Illiteracy
b) Limited set of FSPs
c) Consumer vulnerability
7) Their significance:
a) Pricing will be transparent and non-discriminatory.
b) Speedy, secure delivery of services.
c) Financial products and services shall be appropriate to customer’s risk profile.
d) More financial inclusion as trust and confidence in the financial system increases.
e) Consumer –centric system which ensures their voice is heard.
Q) Write a note on India’s border disputes with Nepal and Bangladesh. Examine
how India is trying to resolve the issue. (200 Words)
1) With Nepal
2) With Bangladesh
a) The issue revolves around the complex enclaves in the Cooch Behar region.
b) An early attempt in the 50s for land exchange was struck down by the Supreme
Court in India vs. Berubari case as unconstitutional.
c) Recent attempts through the 119th Constitution Amendment Bill in India have
faced significant resistance from political quarters in Assam and West Bengal
who see an ulterior motive in exchanging enclaves.
d) India has however allowed Bangladesh access to its largest exclave through the
Teen Bigha Corridor.
e) It is hoped that the Indian Parliament shall take up the onus of ratifying the
enclave exchange immediately as Bangladesh has already consented to the same.
Q) Critically comment on the situation of Kurds in the Middle East. (200 Words)
1) The Kurds are an Iranian people spread over Turkey, Iraq, Iran and the Caucasus.
a) They are mostly Sunni Muslims with a strong minority population of Yazidis and
other indigenous religions.
b) Their culture is syncretic and markedly different from their Turkish and Arab
neighbours.
2) The post World War 1 Sykes-Picot arrangement did not grant a homeland to the
Kurds for political reasons.
a) Resentment at being divided into many fragments led to the rise of the left wing
PKK in Turkey that was accused by the Turkish Government of being a terrorist
outfit.
b) Abdullah Ocalan of the PKK has been jailed for many years now on these
grounds.
3) In Iraq, the Kurds used the first Gulf War to establish an almost independent zone in
North Iraq around the city of Kirkuk.
a) Their autonomy was enforced through no-fly zones declared by the US.
4) The recent rise of the ISIS has led to targeting of Kurds as infidels.
a) The stretched Peshmerga managed to hold back the ISIS militants but has suffered
reverses in certain areas.
b) At the same time, the decline of the Iraqi State has led the Kurds to occupy further
territory and virtually declare independence-a move viewed with alarm in Turkey
and Iran.
5) The lack of a recognised Government and Turkish unwillingness to help the Iraqi
Kurds has resulted in a situation where the only fighters against ISIS on the ground
are virtually all alone. Hundreds of Muslim Kurds and Yazidis have been killed by
the ISIS militants.
Q) “Traditional theatre forms incorporate not only the common man’s interests but
there is also a classical element in them.” In the context of India, illustrate with
examples. (200 Words)
Ans: by thistakesagestotype
Ans: by fabulous
1) In ancient India, Pali and Prakrit were two chief languages which were spoken by
masses. These languages played significant role at that time in the following ways -
a) Sanskrit was difficult to understand and learn. Moreover, lower strata of society
were not permitted to learn Sanskrit. So, Pali and Prakrit became languages of
masses. This made the masses of lower strata a united and integrated force, which
gave rise to several social reform movements.
b) Lord Buddha spread his ideas through these masses' languages only. That’s how
one of the major religions of world came out through these languages. Several
Buddhist literatures are written in these languages only.
c) Jainism also born and spread by getting popularised among lower strata of people.
Thus several of Jain literature is written in these languages.
d) Ashoka used these languages to spread his message of 'Dhamma' to masses to
masses through inscription on stone pillars. These messages were read out louder
by officer called 'Mahamatta'.
e) Later on, in Gupta period, when people were not indulging in agriculture,
Brahmanas also used these languages to convince the masses of necessity of
labour.
2) Thus, Pali and Prakrit language were the languages of masses and played significant
role various reforms in socio-religious arena which spread over centuries.
Ans: by bikashree
1) India’s relation with Bhutan has been largely cordial and India has always avoided
playing a ‘big brother’ role. But excessive economic independence on India and some
coercive commercial diplomacy has made Bhutan think of realigning its relationship
with India vis-à-vis China.
2) India’s limitless flow of subsidy, loan, grant, line of credit etc, has given Bhutan both
development and dependence. Now Bhutan’s three-fourth trade is with India. Subsidy
support by India has made Bhutan import even essential items, stunting growth of its
domestic industry. Pegging the currency with Indian rupee has made it susceptible to
rupee volatility and inflation. Slight delay in providing grant or assistance creates a
crisis like situation in Bhutan. Huge loans given for hydro-electric projects have
mainly Indian stakeholders leading to ‘jobless growth.’
Q) “Whatever the outcome of the nuclear negotiations between Iran and the western
interlocutors, India need to keep its long-term energy security interests in mind and
engage with Iran before it becomes too late.” Critically comment. (200 Words)
Ans: by rashmi
1) The negotiations between P5+1 and Iran, if does not attains its said objective, may
become a problem for India's energy security. Though India has maintained its energy
ties with Iran even after the sanction imposed by the US, but any further sanctions
will complicate the matter.
1) Thitambu Nritham
2) Perini Shivatandavam
3) Nangiarkoothu
4) Tanjore Paintings
Q) The writings of the philosophers had a tremendous influence on the minds of the
people and created a revolutionary awakening in their minds and formed the
intellectual creed of the French Revolution. Examine. (200 Words)
1) The French Revolution was an outcome of the oppression of the Third Estate, who
though bearing the entire burden of the state had no share in the political power.
However without the French Philosophers whose ideas formed the bedrock of the
revolution it would have been nothing more than a riot and would have been easily
suppressed.
2) Contributions:
a) Montesquieu - his idea that the state existed for the welfare of the people and if it
did not serve that purpose it should be removed.
b) Voltaire - advocated freedom of expression and criticised the corrupt monarchy
and clergy.
3) It was only because of the ideas of these philosophers that the French Revolution
could sustain itself against the combined might of the European rulers of Austria,
Prussia and others who wanted to restore the old order in France.
Q) Analyse the factors for the collapse of Soviet Communism and Soviet Union
during 1985-1991. (200 Words)
Ans: by
** No answer yet **
Q) Critically analysis the cause and the results of the Chinese revolution of 1949 and
analyse its significance. (200 Words)
Ans: by Radhika
Ans: by Ameya
1) The Russian Revolution of 1917 was mainly aimed at achieving economic rights for
the people, along with political ones.
2) The condition of workers and peasants was very bad. Though Serfdom was abolished,
majority of farmers owned too little land. They had little capital to develop it. The
workers also suffered due to low wages and bad working conditions.
3) Two out of four demands made by the revolutionaries to the regime were related to
economic justice
a) land to the tiller and
b) control of industry by workers
4) Another demand was that of peace, as Russia was then fighting the First World War.
This caused huge loss of revenue and scarcity in the country.
5) The Russian autocratic government still believed in the divine rights of King. They
fired at a group of peaceful protesters going to give a petition, killing thousands. This
event called the “Bloody Sunday” fanned the revolution.
6) The government promised an elected body called “Duma” to frame the laws. But, it
went back on its promise had it not done so, it might have avoided it complete
overthrow.
7) Russia might have become a Constitutional Monarchy like English.
Q) France was more fertile than Britain in producing new Socialist theories and
movements, though they bore less concrete results in France than in Britain.
Examine (200 Words)
Ans: by Ameya
1) The French Revolution was based on ideas of several philosophers at its different
stages.
2) Starting with Montesque's ideas of a Constitutional Monarchy on lines of Britain with
three centers of power being the Monarch, the Church and the Aristocratic Court.
3) While these ideas were very popular it did not include the natural rights that were
demanded by the people. So, new ideas were adopted, namely that of Rousseau.
4) The idea of a Republic where people owned themselves. This idea was also very
popular but it was unfortunately twisted and misused during a reign of terror that was
there in France at that time. It ended with Napoleon's coup d'e tat in the year 1799.
Ans: by Abdaal
1) Neo-Imperialism refers to the wave of conquests in Asia and Africa from the early
19th to the mid 20th century. It was differentiated from Colonialism or Old
Imperialism in its emphasis on nationalism rather than economic goals.
2) The colonial setup had no motives of conquering land for the home country. The
early European colonies in North America, for instance, were nominally subservient
to the English Sovereign, but enjoyed almost absolute autonomy otherwise. In fact the
American War of Independence was a direct result of increased interference by the
country in the colony's affairs. Neo-Imperialism, on the other hand, was marked by
direct annexation in the name of the Crown, for the Crown. E.g - Ethiopia by Italy,
Sudan by the UK etc.
3) Old Imperialism was marked by the flag following trade. Private, commercial
enterprises like the Dutch VOC and the British East India Company acquired
enormous land that was later transferred to the Crown. Neo-Imperialism had no such
intermediaries or pretensions. Land was won through outright conquest and annexed
forthwith to the Crown.
4) Neo-Imperialism was tied inextricably to the European Balance of Power where each
country tried to carve out its sphere of influence on Africa and Asia. The motive for
world domination was clearly linked to national pride rather than any economic
reasons. We see this in Japan's conquest of Korea, the American colony in the
Philippines and the Italian invasion of Libya and Ethiopia.
Ans: by Abdaal
Ans 2: by Nitash
Benito Mussolini (1883-1945) over the course of his lifetime went from Socialism to the
leadership of a new political movement called "fascism" (after "fasces", the symbol of
bound sticks used a totem of power in ancient Rome).
1) Militant nationalism, proclaiming the racial and cultural superiority of the dominant
ethnic group and asserting that group's inherent right to a special dominant position
over other peoples in both the domestic and the international order
2) The adulation of a single charismatic national leader said to possess near superhuman
abilities and to be the truest representation of the ideals of the national culture, whose
will, should therefore literally be law.
3) Emphasis on the absolute necessity of complete national unity.
4) Militant anti-Communism coupled with the belief in an extreme and imminent threat
to national security from powerful and determined Communist forces both inside and
outside the country.
5) Contempt for democratic socialism, democratic capitalism, liberalism, and all forms
of individualism as weak, degenerate, divisive and ineffective ideologies leading only
to mediocrity or national suicide.
6) Glorification of physical strength, fanatical personal loyalty to the leader, and general
combat-readiness as the ultimate personal virtues.
7) A sophisticated apparatus for systematically propagandizing the population into
accepting these values and ideas through skilled manipulation of the mass media,
which are totally monopolized by the regime once the movement comes to power.
8) A propensity toward pursuing a militaristic and aggressive foreign policy.
9) Strict regulation and control of the economy by the regime through some form of
corporatist economic planning.
10) To conclude, Fascism and Nationalism are inexorably linked. Fascism shows what
exaggerated nationalism can become. Fascism is a twentieth century phenomena
Q) In the long run, the Locarno Treaty (December 1925) was descriptive both of the
Treaty of Versailles and of the Covenant. Examine. (200 Words)
1) The Locarno Treaty forms an event of utmost significance in the world history. This
treaty was concluded in 1925 when there was a general improvement in the
international atmosphere because of changes in political leadership and easing out of
plan of German reparation.
2) After Treaty of Versailles both Britain and USA declined to guarantee French
security. France then embarked upon efforts to guard her frontiers. The outcome was
seven agreements involving Germany, France, Britain, Italy, Belgium, Poland and
Czechoslovakia respecting their joint frontiers.
3) The agreements were greeted with enthusiasm all over Europe, and the reconciliation
between France and Germany was referred to as the Locarno honeymoon. However,
one glaring omission was that, no guarantees were given by Germany or Britain about
Germany’s eastern frontiers with Poland and Czechoslovakia, the very areas where
trouble was most likely to arise. By ignoring this problem, Britain gave the
impression that she might not act if Germany attacked Poland or Czechoslovakia.
4) The Locarno spirit later led to a series of path-breaking measures and ultimately the
World Disarmament Conference (1933). Though guaranteeing short peace following
the holocaust of WWI, the treaty destroyed the spirit of both Treaty of Versailles and
covenant.
Ans: by
** No Answer yet **
Ans: by Abdaal
1) It had its origins in the collapse of Colonial Imperialism as seen in Latin America and
the USA. Imperialism now was devoid of its mask of commerce and trade and was
purely exploitative and political in nature.
2) The Industrial Revolution made the UK a manufacturing hub. It also created a need
for markets where these goods could be dumped. Therefore the colonies of the
Empire brought in laws to throttle local production in the interests of the
manufacturing of Dundee, Manchester and Liverpool.
3) Social Darwinism was used as a convenient excuse to justify Imperialism. It was the
'White Man's Burden' to bring to civilizing influence of science and technology into
the lives of ignorant natives who lived like savages.
4) The financial impetus for Imperialism came from the increased demand for raw
materials as the second stage of the Industrial Revolution took hold. These raw
materials were not available in Europe. Therefore Africa became almost a private
fiefdom of kleptomaniac capitalists who sought to denude it of all its resources.
5) The European Balance of Power depended on the territories held abroad. This led to a
race for acquiring colonies between the UK, France, and Germany etc.
6) Newly industrialised countries like Japan and the USA sought to create their own
spheres of influence. This led to the annexation of Puerto Rico, Manchuria,
Philippines and so on.
Q) The capitalism which gave the European empires their apparent solidarity and
permanence also hastened their downfall. Comment (200 Words)
Ans: by Vineela
Q) What do you understand by imperialism? State briefly its unique features in the
case of Africa. (200 Words)
Ans: by Abdaal
2) Imperialism in Africa differed from the general colonial trend in many ways. The
distinctive features of African imperialism were:
a) Lack of private colonialism: Unlike the rest of the world, for most of Africa,
Imperialism did not follow colonialism but was in fact concurrent with the latter.
Right from the British Gold Coast to the conquest of Ethiopia in 1910, the
European countries conquered Africa directly in their own name rather than
through private enterprises as in Asia.
b) "Civilising" mission: Imperialism in Africa was presented as something for the
good of the natives-intended to civilise them and make them humans. This
scientific racism was at the root of the utilitarian defence of Imperialism.
c) Competition: Africa was the ground on which Britain and France played their
game of world domination. The Cape to Cairo scheme of Cecil Rhodes and the
Mauritania to Djibouti scheme of Napoleon III are examples of the same.
d) Settler colonies: Just like America, South Africa was treated as terra nullius and
settled by Dutch, Huguenot and English migrants who appropriated all land. The
blacks were progressively pushed deeper into the land and confined to
reservations.
e) Public-Private Partnership: The imperialist conquest of Africa was funded by
private companies who benefited from the exploitation of African resources. De
Beers of Cecil Rhodes in Rhodesia, rubber companies in the Congo, plantations in
Kenya are examples.
Q) Why did Vietnam go through thirty years of war after the Second World War?
Discuss. (200 Words)
Ans: by Neha
1) The war which was started against colonialism became the prey of the Cold war
battleground. The post second world war was witnessed with emergence of conflicts
among the ideologies.
Ans: by Lloyd
1) In its heyday, Turkey, ruled by the Ottoman kingdom controlled the Middle East,
North Africa and parts of Europe upto Bosnia-Herzegovina.
2) As a consequence of the First World War, Turkey’s Ottoman kingdom disintegrated
and its territories were shared by Britain, France, Italy and Greece.
3) However, in the First World War a staggering 53 to 70 million people were killed.
European supremacy over the world ended and US took over it both economically
and militarily. Many colonies ruled by European countries stood up in revolt as the
former had used their resources such as labourers and soldiers to fight the war.
4) The epidemic of influenza which hit the world in 1918 killed millions across Europe
too.
5) Post war redrawing of boundaries of nations led to mass migrations and social
distress. The Peace Treaties signed after the war failed to contain the dissatisfaction
of the defeated countries. Imperialism too could not be ended.
6) The Great Global Depression of 1929-30 engulfed entire Europe very badly.
Countries such as Germany, France and Britain suffered badly from poverty,
Q) “By 1914, the sick man of Europe was no longer just Turkey: it was Europe
itself.” Explain. (200 Words)
Ans: by Lloyd
1) The Fascist powers started to gain power in the 1930s. They emerged mainly in 3
countries viz. Germany, Italy and Japan. Italy perpetuated atrocities in Ethiopia, while
Japan conquered Korea, parts of China and fought wars with Russia.
2) Nazism rose in Germany under Adolf Hitler. This phenomenon increased mainly as a
force to quell the rise of communism in countries such as Soviet Union, Bulgaria and
so on. As the fascists were against the communist democratic capitalist countries like
England, France and the US did not oppose them and on the other hand encouraged
their views and actions.
3) After the First World War, the League of Nations was established. It put severe
restrictions on militarization and there was a limit of 1,00,000 men imposed on each
country. On the contrary Germany went ahead to build a military strength of 8 lakh
men. Nothing was done to stop this.
4) Also as per the Treaty of Versailles, the French area of Rhineland, bordering
Germany had to be demilitarized. In spite of this, in the year 1936 Hitler’s troop
entered the region, thus violating the treaty. Although this step alarmed France,
nothing was done to stop Germany.
5) Even during the Spanish Civil War, Germany had tested the effectiveness of many
new weapons without any opposition from the Allied powers. During the same time
Hitler occupied Austria which was again a violation of the peace treaties signed after
the First World War.
6) The Munich Pact was signed between England, France and Germany. According to
this pact the region of Sudetenland, which was highly industrialized and belonged to
Czechoslovakia was given to Germany even without the consent of the former.
7) Thus, as a result of concessions given to the demands of fascist Germany it grew in
power in the country which culminated in the First World War.
Q) “The impact of the French Revolution (1789) was initially confined the Europe,
but, that of the Russia Revolution (1917) was global.” – Critically review. (200
Words)
Ans: by jyoti
1) The French Revolution gave rise to the revolutionary ideas of Liberty, Equality and
Justice in the form of inalienable rights of all citizens. These were accompanied by
the institutionalization of Republic of France.
Ans: by Apps
1) America was a late entrant in the race for colonies which had engulfed the European
powers in the 18th century. The US, having been a colony itself, resurfaced as a
formidable power only around 1898.
2) The US acquisition of colonies in Philippines is considered to be a form of “New
Imperialism”. It was a new variant of imperialism which differed considerably from
the practices of European Imperialism.
3) Though it was in no way an anti-colonialism policy, the main focus of the Americans
was not the subjugation of the peoples of the colonies for prestige, power or wealth.
4) The Americans needed the colonies to keep trade routes open to foreign markets.
5) The Americans did not look at the colonies as sources of raw materials or as markets
for American industries, as the Europeans did. They only wanted the colonies to serve
as bases from where America could protect her international trade.
6) On the other hand, the Europeans used Indonesia and Indo-China as their estates and
set up plantations in these regions and used them as a market for their goods.
7) Philippines was more important as a naval base from which the US could protect its
business interests in Japan and China, rather than being the focus of trade itself.
8) It can thus be said that American Imperialism differed from European Imperialism.
Ans: by Apps
1) In the early 18th century, Germany was divided into several states. Som eof these
states were as small as single cities. Prussia, Bavaria and Saxony were some of the
larger states.
2) During the early 19th century, the Austrian Empire was a powerful force in the
region. The German state of Prussia was the only power that was comparable to the
empire in terms of its resources, size and population.
3) Otto van Bismarck was a Prussian aristocrat who wanted to preserve the
predominance of aristocrats in a united Germany. He came up with the policy of
“blood and iron”, by which he implied a policy of war.
4) His first aim was to eliminate Austria from the German Confederation. He entered
into an alliance with Italy to defeat Austria and dissolved the Germanic
Confederation.
5) The defeat was due to the weakening of Austria due to loss of allies and surrender of
some territories to France and Italy. On the other hand, Prussia had become the most
industrialised state in Germany. It was producing a lot of resources such as coal and
iron and had managed to set up an economic alliance with other German States. As a
result, Prussia was in a commanding position over the Austrian Empire.
6) Therefore, it can be said that “coal and iron” was more important than “blood and
iron” in the unification of Germany.
Q) Any single explanation for the outbreak of the First World War likely to be too
simple. An amalgam of factors intellectual, social, economic as well as political and
diplomatic contributed to this horrifying conflict of monumental propositions.
Examine (200 Words)
Ans: by Apps
The cause for the First World War cannot be attributed to any single event or incident.
The War was the result of a wide range of reasons which can be categorised under the
following heads:
Q) “A start was made in this period (1970s) toward the formation of women’s
organizations along lines completely different from pre-independence ones.”
Critically examine the nature, purpose and impact of these organisations.
Reference (Page 24, 25 and 26)
Ans: by
** No Answer Yet **
Q) Critically analyse the basis of demand for and against creation of new states
through constitution of Second States Reorganisation committee. (200 Words)
Ans: by Rajendra
1) The first ARC has recommended realigning the federal map of the country on a
linguistic basis. The reorganisation of states has to be viewed as a continuous process
and not an event in time. The demand for separate statehood around the country has
generated an opinion for constituting a 2 ARC for further reorganisation based on
contemporary issues.
a) The larger states have been witness to a lopsided growth pattern which has led to
chronic underdevelopment in certain sub regions like Vidarbha in Maharashtra,
Bundelkhand in UP and MP, Telangana in AP etc.
b) The demand that creation of new states can solve the problem of
underdevelopment by bringing the state govt closer to ground realities, due to
geographical compactness, relatively homogeneous identities etc.
c) But there are many hurdles. Reports suggest that size of a state does no
necessarily determine its performance.
d) A small state could not be economically viable hence making it dependent on
central funding and central sector schemes. And there are problems of
infrastructure deficit, administration deficit and asset and liability problem that a
new state has to face.
e) New states cause unnecessary wastage of finances for replicating an entire
administrative machinery etc. It also leads to Inter State Water disputes in a
populous country like India.
f) Geographically large states could be better administered by technological
interventions
Q) Critically comment on the role played by then superpowers in India’s 1971 War
with Pakistan. (200 Words)
Ans: by Sudhakar
1) 1971 is inked as one of the watershed years of Indian positioning on regional &
global stages. It forged new relations: some sour, some sweet. 1971 is the year of
India's 3rd with Pakistan & the most open one.
2) Pakistani forces were taking repressive actions against demonstrators in East
Pakistan. It led to huge influx of migrants to India. India was forced to intervene
despite adverse position of America & China.
3) Both were supporting Pakistan and had warned India of severe repercussions if it took
to arms against Pakistan. India, meanwhile, signed "Treaty of Peace & Cooperation"
with Russia. Indo-Russia partnership proved to be fruitful for several decades to
come. It gave India a global safeguard against Chinese or American adversity.
4) China & USA wanted to benefit from India’s vulnerability. They under-estimated
India’s military prowess. In the end, it was Russia and India who benefitted from it.
Russia got a reliable ally in Indian Ocean while India found an all weather friend.
Ans: by adwivedi814
1) Population growth has always been an issue of debate. The world population is
projected to increase to 11 billion by the century end with the highest growth in the
sub Saharan region. The increase in the medical facilities has facilitated the increase
along with the cultural factors.
2) World is already facing the brunt due to the increased exploitation of the natural
resources to meet the current demand. The food security and energy security has
already come under pressure. The climate change and the increase in pollution are
results of increased burden on the limited resources.
3) The increase in population would only exacerbate the condition. Moreover, in the
face of the enough employment problems, it would give rise to increased crimes and
extremist tendencies. It may result into bigger conflicts over the acquiring the
resources to meet the needs. The situation would only be worse in the developing and
Ans: by adwivedi814
1) Population growth leads to increased burden on the existing limited resources. The
situation becomes worse in the countries which have higher prevalence of gender
inequality.
2) In the countries with higher gender inequality, the women section is denied the basic
human necessities giving them a secondary status. The increase in population only
pushes the inequality further. The lack of access to education for the girls, reduces
their status in the society, depriving them of growth opportunity. This results into
higher fertility ratios, thereby resulting into further increase in population.
3) The decrease in fertility ratio is necessary for the increase in the higher per capita
income, a parameter considered essential for the economic growth and development.
However, the population growth cycle combined with the gender inequality in the
societies only exacerbate the condition.
4) The population growth could be reaped by providing adequate capabilities to the
citizens through the entitlements and opportunities. However, gender equality in the
society hampers the reaping of the potential of the population growth.
5) Therefore, it becomes an imperative for the nations to reduce the gender inequality to
progress and achieve higher economic growth.
Ans: by Sanjana
1) In contrast to 1950, where 30% of global population is urban, but today it is 54% and
in 2050 the expected rise is to be 66%.The trend in this rise is due to that rural
population mainly depends on farming, low wages manual works etc. This does not
fulfill the economic prospects of rural labourers where the productivity in farming is
Q) “What India needs is not a whole lot of very costly, brand new cities but a
revamping of urban institutional structures and policies to improve the obvious
squalor and inefficiencies of the country’s existing 8,000 cities and towns.” Examine.
Ans: by adwivedi841
Ans: by Gurukumar
1) The evil of discrimination on the basis of Caste is not a new phenomenon to India and
might be the only country in the world where such discrimination existed merely on
basis of caste. The lowest in the cast hierarchy were termed as untouchables and were
stripped off of their basic rights like right to own property, right to education, right to
health etc.
2) From time to time after enactment of the constitution many laws were framed to
improve the conditions of SC’s, however no enactment achieved the desired result, as
per the recent survey the literacy rate among SC’s is just 54% as compared to over all
literacy of 64%, School dropout is high, Child mortality ratio among SC’s are also
high as compared to over all population.
3) Government’s SC Sub Plan a central government scheme is no doubt a pious step to
bring SC communities on par with other communities wherein the funding is made by
the Central Government on basis of population of SC’s, however it suffers from
lacunae.
4) Firstly not all states have passed legislation to this effect to have proper
implementation of SC Sub Plan.
5) Secondly many states use the fund for irrigation development, communication
development etc which is not the purpose of SC Sub plan.
6) SC Sub Plan which is for over all development of SC’s shall remain a distinct dream
in absence of proper implementation of the scheme.
Q) Critically analyse the provisions of The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Bill,
2014 (200 Words)
Ans: by Apps
1) The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Bill, 2014 aims to replace the Persons with
Disabilities (Equal Opportunities Protection of Rights and Full Participation) Act of
1995.
3) Despite being an improvement on the 1995 Act, the 2014 Bill still has some major
drawbacks. Some of these are:
a) The Bill does not meet the standards prescribed under the United Nations
Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disability, to which India is a
signatory.
b) The Bill provides that its provisions shall be in addition to, and not in derogation
of, the provisions of any other law in force, which effectively meant that all laws
which actively discriminated against persons with disabilities remained
untouched.
c) The Right of Equality is curtailed as Section 3 states that the right against
discrimination exists ‘unless it can be shown that the impugned act or omission is
a proportionate means of achieving a legitimate aim', but neither proportionate
means nor legitimate aim has been defined in the Bill.
4) Thus, the new Bill on the Rights of Persons with Disability suffers from a lot of
loopholes, which need to be addressed before the legislation is passed.
Ans: by Apps
Ans: by DVA
Ans: by
a) Positive effects:
i) Economic Independence
(1) Generation of employment opportunities
(2) Generation of self employment opportunities
(3) Equal pay for equal work
ii) Social Independence
(1) Prejudice against women got subsumed
(2) Status of women both in the family and in the society got enhanced
(3) it has changed the perception of men on women
(4) it made the women to prove that they are not just means but are end in
themselves
(5) It promoted women education
(6) It promoted the health status of women
iii) Political Independence
(1) women started occupying higher positions in the private corporate, ex:-
Chanda Kochchar, Arundhati Bhattacharya, Kiran M Shaw etc
(2) it empowered women and inculcated leadership capabilities in them
(3) it enhanced their decision making
(4) it has increased their participation in electoral process
b) Negative effects:
i) Sexual harassment is continuing unhindered
ii) the effect of globalization can be seen only in urban educated women
iii) it eroded the traditional family system
iv) it has eroded the traditional value system
v) it has alienated the children from the love of their mother
vi) most of the women got involved in low profile jobs
Q) People with disabilities are one of the most disenfranchised groups in India.
Critically examine how economic globalisation has affected them. (200 Words)
1) Being a weakly constituted group serving no political brownie points, the disabled
groups are the worst affected in terms of social security cuts of the Government in
line with the privatization policies.
2) Moreover the urban cities are not at all amenable to the movement of the disabled
thus grossly affecting their independence and growth prospects. Similarly with the
growing files of clearances and permissions in face of globalization has led to burying
of disabled files in government offices which needs to be cleared for availing the
government benefits.
3) Privatization of healthcare undoubtedly has opened new vistas for improved
healthcare but their high costs; concentration only to urban areas has failed to accrue
the benefits to all (80% of disabled reside in rural areas).
4) Economic globalization and inherent new technology brought into the country has
eased the life of the disabled and empowered them to take up jobs, engage in
vocational activities but technology has also substituted old jobs like telephone
operators, translators by IVRS.
5) The early opportunities of education and health are grossly neglected for the disabled
child thus rendering them incapable of competing for the high skilled jobs
globalization has brought in. This leads to a vicious cycle of poverty where low skills
lead to low payment and unequal opportunities for subsequent generations.
Q) What do you understand by mid-latitude cyclones? How are they formed? What
are their features? Explain. (250 Words)
Ans: by Karthik
1) Mid-latitude cyclones are a type of cyclone formed when warm currents from the
tropical region meet the cold water currents from the higher latitudes. This leads to
rising of the water into the atmosphere, with a marked low pressure area.
2) Features:
Ans: by Karthik
Q) The States Reorganisation Act, 1956 was a major reform of the boundaries of
India’s states and territories, organising them along linguistic lines. Critically
examine the highlight of this act and how the reorganisation was carried out. (250
Words)
Ans: by Madforias
1) After Independence the states have been categorised under A, B, C and D category
based on administrative ease. The State Reorganisation Act abolished that
categorisation and recognised 14 states and 6 administrative territories
a) Reorganisation is based on the welfare of the people and benefits to the nation
3) After Independence dividing states on the basis of language was very low in priority
due to prevalent bad economic condition, war like situation with Pakistan etc. Hence
First S.K. Dar commission and then JVP committee argued against the language
based state division.
4) But, the state of Andhra Pradesh case was too strong to deny, after the death of Potti
Sriramulu, Nehru was left with no choice but to recognise Andhra Pradesh. JVP
committee report met with agitation across the nation.
5) It led to SRC commission finally, but the outcome of the SRC cannot be said
completely rational. It led to numerous protest and clashes in Bombay Presidency
which led to division in Maharashtra and Gujarat. Similarly, the case of PEPSU went
till communal violence and then split into three states.
Q) What were the objectives of the First Five Year plan? Critically evaluate its
contribution to nation building. (200 Words)
Ans: by Avinash
1) India adopted the planning through central planning commission in 1951 and
launched its first five year plan for a 5 year term till 1956 on the basis of Harrod -
Domar model.
2) This agricultural country was since facing large food grain imports in 1951 so the
prime importance was given to the Agriculture and its allied activities in the plan.
Irrigation and power projects came into lime light.
4) With the Nehru at the helm, the plan hinted at nation building approach through
socialism in place of capitalism. About 45% of the total outlay went into the pockets
of PSU's. His government took steps to rehabilitate landless farmers.
5) The target growth rate was 2.1 % and achieved 3.6%. Good agricultural production
was the biggest contributor towards achievement of the goals. Bhakra dam, Hirakud
Q) Critically evaluate the main objectives, nature and outcome of the Bhoodan and
Gramdan movements. (200 Words)
Ans: by awivedi814
1) Bhoodan Gramdan movement was one of the novel attempts made at the solving the
land problems during the post independence period. Vinoba Bhave started the
movement aiming at the redistribution of the land in the favour of the welfare of the
deprived sections.
2) The voluntary proposal of land donation by RamChandra Reddy, local landlord of the
Pochampalli village to meet the needs of the land for the Harijans made Vinoba
Bhave realize the potential of such a move in solving the land problem in India and
thereby ensuring a more equitable society.
3) The movement turned into a mass movement akin to the Gandhian movements during
the national movement. It gradually transformed into the Gramdan movement leading
to donation of the villages for the general welfare of the village and redistribution
among the land deprived sections.
4) It also led to the re-emergence of the Gandhian ideals of the socio economic
reconstruction and provided a non violent method to ensure a solution to the land
distribution in India.
5) Though the movement achieved great fame due to its novel approach, yet there were
certain areas where the movement did not achieve success. The movement was not
successful in the non tribal areas.
6) The Bhoodan-Gramdan movement did not only provided a harmonious solution to the
redistribution of the land but was also instrumental in the reviving the Gandhian
values.
Ans: by Shanky
Ans: by adwivedi814
1) Nuclear terrorism refers to the use of the fissile material by the terrorists to inflict
catastrophic damages to further their cause. This has gained prominence with the
increased possibilities of the access to the fissile material by these elements due to
proliferation of the nuclear capabilities.
2) The proliferation of the nuclear capacities and varied level of the security to restrict
access to these materials has increased the threat of nuclear terrorism. Moreover,
adapting to this method would increase the bargaining capacity of these groups
enormously. The higher potential of the fissile material to cause damage may be one
of the reasons for adapting to nuclear terrorism. The greater number of ways to get
access to and lower security would further facilitate its growth.
3) India has been considered to be under the target of the groups due to multiple reasons.
The proximity with US has further exacerbated with these forces aiming to target US
and its partners. The unstable conditions in India’s neighbourhood would provide
conducive conditions for pursuing such motives to these groups. The slackness of
security at prime locations in India would further increase the threat.
Ans: by Rashmi
1) After the discovery of shale gas, it is estimated that by 2020 the US will become
energy self sufficient and can become an exporter also. It will have following
ramifications:
a) Its interest in the security and stability of West Asia will reduce. As it is seen via a
withdrawal of the NATO forces from Afghanistan, the process has begun.
b) The current support which it provides to Israel and Saudi Arab will also be not of
same level. It is also evident from its desire to solve the nuclear issue with Iran,
much to the chagrin to both Israel and Arab.
c) The US may make Europe the primary market for its exports, thus curbing the
market of Russian energy. This in turn will remove the dependency of Europe on
Russia. And thus may pave a path for more open conflicts.
2) Implications on India:
a) The prices of energy and gas may reduce. Since India exports nearly 80% of its
energy requirement, it may prove beneficial for it.
b) Russia will search new market, as evident by recent deal of pipeline with China,
and India will be a natural choice.
c) The unwillingness of the US to play a role of global policemen, and no other
country taking her place will pose both risk and opportunity to India. On one hand
the rise in terrorism in West Asia will pave a direct security threat to it, while it
may also result in a strong alliance among the countries like China, Russia and
India to fight the terrorism.
3) Thus, as the discovery of oil in the West Asia played an important role in carving
history in the 19th and 20th century. The energy revolution in the US may change the
future course of history.
Ans 2: adwivedi814
1) Shale gas explorations in US would not only provide energy security to the country,
but would have greater implications over the world dynamics.
Ans: by noboundriz
1) Maoist insurgency which started in WB spread to 9 districts and became one of main
security threats that India faces. It aims at replacing the democratic government by
the use of violence and force.
2) The GOI approach to this threat is multi pronged. It involves use of force and
development of the Maoist affected regions and ideological counter attack. In
development approach building roads, providing education, employment and health
facilities are the main components. The preference will be given to tribal districts.
There are programmes like Roshni and IAP which are solely directed to address the
developmental deficit in the tribal areas. All these will motivate the tribals not to join
the cadres of Maoists and this approach is the most effective of the all. But the
government deficit makes the implementation of the schemes difficult.
3) Use of force is not the successful one because of the unfamiliarity with the terrain, the
superior capabilities of Maoists and procedural lapses on the part of security forces
etc. But this step is necessary when the things are out of control and semblance of
order is needed to implement other strategies may it be development or ideological
battle.
4) In Ideological battle, the military forces involve in creating good image by involving
in provision of public goods like health, education and employment. They pose
Q) Do you agree with the view that underdevelopment is the primary reason behind
the growth and spread of extremism in India? Critically comment.
Ans: by noboundriz
Q) “The European Union is the new sick man of Europe.” Critically evaluate.
Ans: by MSI
1) The foundation of European Union was laid way back in 1957 in the form of
European Economic Council. It evolved and expanded to form the present EU. The
objective behind EU formation was to establish a homogenous market with similar
Ans: by Optimus
These excerpts from Mandela’s ‘Our long march to freedom speech’ envisage the future
path to be adopted by ANC for reconstruction of South Africa. It was in 1948 with
declaration of racial segregation by PM Malan that apartheid was made an official policy
of South Africa in order to preserve the white supremacy.
1) Political Power:
a) The blacks lost their representation in the Parliament and were disenfranchised.
b) Their residence was restricted to segregated areas known as “Bantustans” which
could be diminished and moved at the will of the white members.
c) As per the Pass laws every member had to carry official pass in order to move in
white territory to work and couldn’t leave without his master’s permission.
2) Economic Power:
a) The resource rich South Africa and her industries was controlled by the minority
white population with the blacks not even given sufficient land to grow crops for
self sufficiency.
b) Worst forms of slavery, forced labour, and denial of quality education and health
services to the Blacks was practiced.
Ans: by keysersoze
1) The collapse of Soviet Union in 1991 was due to its incapability to maintain itself.
3) Thus, the economic, political and social resources needed to maintain a superpower
got eroded and it collapsed eventually.
Q) “By the 1980s, the Communist system of the Soviet Union was incapable of
maintaining the country’s role as a Superpower.” Elucidate.
Ans: by Abhi007
1) New Imperialism refers to colonial expansion of European powers, and later of USA
and Japan during later half of 19th and early 20th century (1850-1914). This period is
distinguished by an unprecedented pursuit of “empire for empire’s sake”, rise in spirit
of nationalism, aggressive competition for new colonies and spheres of influence, and
doctrine of racial superiority.
3) Thus the rise of new imperialism, although partly influenced by spirit of nationalism,
was majorly driven by economic aspirations of governments, elite and business
classes.
Q) “In spite of the careful framing of the Charter, the role of UNO as peacekeeper
and international mediator has been somewhat lacklustre and muted and that
continues to be so even after the end of Cold War.” Elucidate.
Ans: by
Ans 2: by 123
1) The United Nations was formed on the backdrop of the Second World War to
promote world peace and co operation. But it is still unable to work up to its
expectations.
2) The UN, when it was formed had the most powerful nations of that time as its
permanent members. But things have changed now and new powers have emerged.
The permanent membership is still seen as an exclusive club and the p5 nations are
reluctant to expand the permanent membership. Adding to that, the P5 are divided
among themselves with China & Russia on one side and the rest three on the others
side. Each P5 member with a veto power can vote out the bills that others propose.
3) The United Nations is still dominated by the western powers. Hence, the UN takes
selective notice of few issues and omits the rest. The voices and concerns of the third
world countries are not taking into consideration. The UN has to improve its
credibility by taking impartial action against the erring nations.
4) The United Nations has to raise the strength and capabilities of its peace keeping
forces. And their deployment is regions of conflict have to be done in an unbiased
manner.
5) The UN is still not a lost cause and course correction is what is need ate the present
scenario to fulfill its obligations as mentioned in the UN charter.
Ans: by Madforias
5) Between this and world war there were series of reforms introduced into the system
but real change happened with the introduction of "1918 Representation of People
Act", which gave universal franchise to all men above 21 years and all women above
30 years. Subsequently the introduction of "1928 Representation of People Act"
extended same voting rights to women as men.
Q) “If the 1917 Bolshevik Revolution in Russia (that resulted in the creation of the
Union of Soviet Socialist Republics or Soviet Union) inaugurated an international
competition for the hearts and minds of people all over the globe, the Chinese
Revolution raised the stakes of that struggle.”
Ans: by Madforias
1) The 1917 Bolshevik Revolution in Russia gave presence to the Socialist and
Communist ideas in the world, even though these ideas were presented by many
philosophers and sociologist decades ago but could never get such a center stage. It
was a strong blow to the capitalists and the imperialist forces. The properties and
investments in Soviet Union had been nationalized, so does the entire economy and
political system. It gave impetus of this idea to many countries including India which
saw emergence of many communist parties.
2) Its Comintern was given the task of spreading communism across the world. Many
European countries followed the pursuit.
3) But the Chinese struggle actually gave it a bigger dimension; world most populist
country became communist. USA sent military aid to Kai Chang Shek to stop
communist forces but they failed. It was a great defeat to USA and other capitalist
forces and a win for the worker and peasant classes.
4) China subsequently supported many countries fighting against imperialist forces even
till Africa. This revolution strengthen the idea that socialism and communism going
to be the next political order of this world.
Q) “Decolonization has finished. It definitely belongs to the past. Yet somehow it has
refused to become history.”
Ans: by Lazarus
1) Decolonization in Asian and African countries was a direct outcome of two factors.
External events like weakening of Western powers due to constant wars and
5) Although most of the countries in Asia and Latin America are trying to make regional
alliances to counter this western dependency, but it can be rightly said that though
decolonisation has ended, it still persists.
Q) “Six hundred thousand men had died. The Union was preserved, the slaves
freed. A nation ‘conceived in liberty and dedicated to the proposition that all men
are created equal’ had survived its most terrible ordeal.”
Ans: by Balu .B
1) These words refer to the American Civil War. Occurring over a span of 4 years (1861
-1865), the war posed a major threat to the unity and integrity of the Union.
2) The economies of Northern and Southern regions of America had fundamental
differences. The North had a diversified economy with both farms and industries. .
On the other hand a few cash crops like cotton formed the backbone of the South's
economy. It relied largely on the cheaply available slave labour.
3) With the westward expansion of America, the economic differences between the two
regions escalated to a conflict over slavery. Northerners who considered slavery
morally wrong, wanted to abolish it altogether, while the southerners wanted to
institutionalize slavery. This disagreement also brought into question the rights of
individual states in a federation.
4) This conflict reached its zenith, with the election of Abraham Lincoln as President in
1860. Southern States began to secede from the Union and formed the Confederate
States of America. The simmering tensions erupted into a fully fledged war when
Q) “Colonialism not only deprives a society of its freedom and its wealth, but of its
very character, leaving its people intellectually and morally disoriented.”
Ans: by Apps
1) Colonialism refers to the practice of acquiring colonies by conquest and making them
dependent on the country so acquiring them.
2) The economic effects of colonialism are quite well known. However, it is not just in
the economic aspect that the country is exploited. The people's minds too are affected
by subjugation. The conquerors behaved in a manner showing a sense of superiority
of their own civilisation while degrading those of the colonies, even in case of ancient
civilizations like India. This created a sense of inferiority complex in the minds of the
people, leading them to consider themselves intellectually less qualified than the
colonisers.
3) The policy of racial discrimination followed by the Colonisers also broke the spirit of
the people. Further, their disdain for traditional arts and crafts and the age-old
customs and traditions further aggravated the situation, causing the people to doubt
their own faith and belief.
4) Thus, colonialism had an impact not just on the economy of the country but also on
the intellect of the people of the colony.
Q) Write a critical note on the revised defence FDI policy and its significance. (200
Words)
1) The FDI policy for defence sector has been revised and it has great significance on
the defence sector of the country.
2) FDI caps have been increased from 26% to 49%. All kinds of foreign investment
have been allowed like QFI, FII, NRI deposits etc. Hot money (or) all foreign flows
except FDI has been capped at 24%.
4) The significance of the revised policy lies in the fact that Indigenization has been the
prime motive. The foreign nations are forced to make JV's as that is the only way to
do the majority trade. The entry caps relaxation will bring more foreign flows and it
has made entry easier. As the cap is only 49%, it affects foreign partners as they will
be shy in sharing propriety technology without the majority share of 51%.
5) Economically, it will reduce the import dependence and also brings lot of foreign
currency, the trade balance and corresponding CAD will be improved. There is a
scope for export of arms & ammunitions also. Due to indigenization, we can
secure our weapon and don't have to worry about back-doors of foreign nations that
may make the weapons obsolete/malfunction in times of crisis. A strong nation with
modern arms will prove an effective deterrent thus making many neighbouring
countries not to engage in war, proxy or other-wise. It also provides employment and
the technology so developed can be used in other spheres of economy also.
7) The law & order situation and the ideal of peaceful democracy can be attained and
supported by having modern arms and ammunition as an effective check against anti-
social elements that harm the national security and interest and the revised FDI policy
is on the right path for achieving the same.
Q) “The issue of illegal migration from Bangladesh to India has been the most
vexing issue in the bilateral relations of the two countries.” Critically analyse the
issue and its effect on both the countries. (200 Words)
Ans: by aa
Ans: by aa
1) Throughout its tumultuous history of coups and suicide bombings, Pakistan has
suffered both economic as well as human resources loss. In the absence of a strong
govt., insurgents and so-called jihadists have played havoc with the lives of our
neighbors. It is perhaps, in order to effectively counter these vested state (or non-
state) actors, that Pakistan has launched its anti-insurgency operation, nicknamed
Operation Zarb-e-Azb.
2) While in terms of scale, it is definitely a huge anti-insurgency operation, what is
important for this operation is that it is the first conscious effort of Pakistan to not
only challenge the enemies that threaten its internal peace but also is a strong
statement to the global order regarding its seriousness to tackle terrorism and misuse
of its soil. The full support of civic and the military administration is a welcome
departure from the otherwise military dominated maneuvers of Pakistan.
3) However, just like in any other sphere of life, results are of the utmost importance
here. We must see how effective this operation actually turns out and Pakistan, on its
end, must ensure that this operation does not merely end up becoming a lip-service.
Effectively, when Imran Khan and Nawaz Sharif quarrel, it is the insurgents, the
target of Zarb-e-Azb, that gain the most.
1) The proposed Maritime Silk Route (MSR) by China is one more symbol of growing
political, economic and strategic might of China in Indo-Pacific region. The project
raises both aspirations and concerns of the neighbouring region.
2) India Ocean, especially Strait of Malacca, constitutes the vital sea link between
Middle East and American countries. This sea line of communication is vital to
energy security of Americas and South-East Asian countries as 2/3rd of the world oil
passes through this region, besides commercial trade worth billions of dollar. Yet, the
region lacks vital infrastructure necessary to handle such traffic.
3) With the future demands in consideration development of MSR becomes essentially
important. But, China's recent history and its aspirations in South China Sea, its
Strings of pearls policy and its expansionist mindset cast serious apprehension about
its benign intentions being limited to just commercial purpose. China's military
budget amounting to 10% of its GDP, development of aircrafts carriers etc further
aggravates these doubts.
4) India, which is next to China in the emerging global order has serious ramification
with the development of MSR.
a) China already has a containment policy termed 'strings of pearls' directed against
India. In case of transformation of commercial ports of MSR to military purposes,
Indian security will be highly jeopardised. China's ambiguity and partial
disclosure of project report is sufficient to raise concerns.
b) Secondly, Indian deep sea exploration technology is still in nascent stage. With
china already gaining contract to explore sea-beds of Mauritius, Indian control
over sea resource may further dilute.
c) Thirdly, with MSR in place China footprints in otherwise alien territory of IOR
will increase, thus reducing Indian capability to drive IOR.
d) Fourthly, Indian current fiscal position leaves less space for joining such a mega
project.
5) But, India can also not fall out of line in the emerging order. It thus needs a calibrated
approach to delay the project till it is financially, technically and militarily capable of
taking care of MSR.
Q) Recently there were violent clashes between Naga tribes and few groups from
Assam in the border region between these two states. Examine the genesis of this
border dispute and clashes between different communities there? Suggest solutions
to the problem. (200 Words)
Ans: by Gyaan
1) Assam-Nagaland border witnessed violent clashes when local groups of the area in
Assam were holding an economic blockade on Asian Highway 1 (NH 49) leading
4) There is lack of border law enforcement and in order to curb such incidents in the
future following steps need to be taken:
a) Resolving the border dispute quickly
b) Land records should be created and local administrative systems need to be
strengthened in order to deal with land disputes.
c) Involvement of local social and tribal councils as facilitators
d) Disarmament of groups on both the sides
Ans: by DR
Ans: by MSI
2) Benefits to Bangladesh
a) The PCA awarded 4/5th of the disputed area between India and Bangladesh to
Bangladesh and clearly demarcated its EEZ and maritime boundary.
b) The clear demarcation of maritime boundaries will help Bangladesh to attract
foreign investment for oil and natural gas exploration.
c) The submarine bounties, both surfacial and subsurfacial can be explored without
legal hassles and infuriating India. Fishermen too get right to catch without fear of
languishing in foreign jail.
d) The judgment will also clear AL of the blame of acquiescing with India, thus
checking rightwing element from creating internal troubles in Bangladesh.
3) Benefits to India
4) Thus, the award is a win-win situation for both countries where Bangladesh made
more short term overt gains and India made long term covert gain. It also presents
both countries an opportunity to cooperate on diverse fields like biodiversity of
sunderban to global climate change.
Ans: by MSI
2) TDF objective: It aims to provide necessary resources to public and private sector
companies, including SMEs, as well as academic and scientific institutions to support
research and development of Defence systems that enhance cutting-edge technology
capability in the country.
4) SDIF got initial disapproval from Finance ministry due to its not lapsable nature. It
also created burden on already stressed revenue budget of defence sector. But the
Ans: by Ramya
1) India's national security decision making apparatus suffers from different limitations
like lack of proper hierarchy and integration among the various bodies which are
responsible for the maintenance of weapons, deployment of forces and strategic
decision making in case of armed intrusions.
2) This has been exposed at different point of times viz. Pokhran tests, IPKF deployment
in Sri Lanka, India's declaration to OPCW about possession of chemical weapons etc.
The long term security decisions in India are taken by National Security Council
while the short term decisions are approved by Cabinet Committee on Security.
3) India is the only country with nuclear weapons which doesn't have a Chief of Defence
Staff for interfacing between Prime Minister, National Command Authority and the
military who own the weapons.
4) There is no hierarchical gradation between the military, DRDO and the DAE which
makes the deployment of nuclear arsenal a haphazard process in case of a nuclear war
contingency. Often in the current system, the national security decisions are
politically guided without appropriate inputs from the armed forces.
5) This is a major lacuna in the current apparatus without long term defence planning.
There is critical need to improve the budget allocations to modernise the defence
equipment in order to avoid the mishaps as in the case of INS Sindhurakshak.
6) Such incidents throw light on the neglect of the defence ministry in dealing with
timely phasing out and modernisation of the equipment. Defence reforms suggested
by Naresh Chandra Committee, Kargil review committee etc cannot be disregarded if
we are to be prepared for various security challenges arising from our disquieted
neighbourhood.
7) Ad hoc decisions and knee jerk reactions are detrimental to India's long term security
interests.
Ans 2: by MSI