[Mission 2024] Insights SECURE SYNOPSIS: 14 August 2023

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Jun 06, 2023

[Mission 2024] Insights SECURE SYNOPSIS: 14 August 2023

NOTE : Please remember that following ‘answers’ are NOT ‘model answers’. They are NOT synopsis too if we go by definition of the term. What we are providing is content that both meets demand of the

NOTE: Please remember that following ‘answers’ are NOT ‘model answers’. They are NOT synopsis too if we go by definition of the term. What we are providing is content that both meets demand of the question and at the same

Topic: Distribution of key natural resources across the world (including South Asia and the Indian sub-continent);

1. The diversity in Indian soils can be attributed to the interaction of various factors across the vast and varied geographical and climatic conditions in the country. This diversity has important implications for agriculture, land use planning, and environmental management. Explain. (250 words).

Difficulty level: Easy

Reference: Insights on India

Why the question:

The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 1 and mentioned as part of Mission-2024 Secure timetable.

Key Demand of the question:

To explain the factors responsible for the formation of soil and its implications.

Directive word:

Explain – Clarify the topic by giving a detailed account as to how and why it occurred, or what is the context. You must be defining key terms wherever appropriate and substantiate with relevant associated facts.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Start by mentioning about the diversity of soils in India and their profile across major regions they are found in.

Body:

Talk about reasons for diversity in the Indian soil profile and some important characteristics and crops sown in each soil briefly. A small map of major soil regions of India could be drawn for better presentation purpose.

Then in detail mention about the various factors responsible for (Pedogenesis) soil formation in India. Explain about factors such as Parent Material, Relief. Climate and Natural Vegetation. Substantiate your answer with relevant examples.

Next, write about the implications of soil diversity in India.

Conclusion:

Complete the answer by stressing on the importance of diversity in the soil profile of India.

Introduction

Soil is our prime natural and economic resource. Soils in India differ in composition and structure. In India, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has classified soils into 8 categories. Alluvial Soil, Black Cotton Soil, Red Soil, Laterite Soil, Mountainous or Forest Soils, Arid or Desert Soil, Saline and Alkaline Soil, Peaty and Marshy Soil are the categories of Indian Soil.

Body:

There are a variety of reasons for these variations in soil. Primarily soils are different from region to region due to the climatic conditions (like temperature, rainfall etc). The variety of flora and fauna of a region also has an influence on the soil profile. And there can even be a human influence.

Conclusion:

However, in south and central India, floods wash away rich, weathered soil, which are deposited in reservoirs or as sand bars along the river bed or in the sea. Any rehabilitation programme must consider this lost soil. Organic matter plays a key role in maintaining soil fertility by holding nitrogen and sulphur in organic forms and other essential nutrients such as potassium and calcium. The loss of organic matter is accelerated by frequent tillage. The need of the hour is to educate farmers in other regions as well about what they can do to improve the health of their nutrient-depleted soil by following practices such as crop rotation, and using organic manure boosters such as cow dung and dried leaves.

Topic: Distribution of key natural resources across the world (including South Asia and the Indian sub-continent);

2. India’s diverse climatic conditions have given rise to a wide range of natural vegetation types, each adapted to specific environmental conditions. Examine the major threats to vegetation in India. (250 words).

Difficulty level: Easy

Reference: Insights on India

Why the question:

The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 1 and mentioned as part of Mission-2024 Secure timetable.

Key Demand of the question:

To mention in detail about different types of vegetation in India and to identify major threats to Indian vegetation.

Directive:

Examine – When asked to ‘Examine’, we must investigate the topic (content words) in detail, inspect it, investigate it and establish the key facts and issues related to the topic in question. While doing so we should explain why these facts and issues are important and their implications.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Begin by talking about how the varied climatic conditions has given rise to wide range of natural vegetation.

Body:

Mention about the different types of vegetation present in India. Draw a simple representative map of India highlighting major vegetation in India.

Explain in detail, the types of vegetation. Account for the major climatic factors responsible for it, the major features of each vegetation and major flora – fauna found there.

In the next part, bring out the major threats to Indian vegetation such as deforestation, mining, over grazing, climate change and invasive species etc. Cite some facts from recently released Indian State of Forests Report 2019 to substantiate above.

Conclusion:

Conclude with a way forward on how to safeguard the Indian vegetation.

Introduction

The natural vegetation is the endowments of nature. They grow naturally by following the climatic variables. The types of natural vegetation differ according to precipitation, soil, climate, and topography. The cultivated crops and fruits, orchards form part of vegetation, but not natural vegetation. India is bestowed with a wide range of flora and fauna. Due to a diverse geographical and climatic condition, an extensive range of natural vegetation grows in India.

Body

Types of Natural Vegetation in India

Major threats to vegetation in India:

Conclusion

There is an urgent need to address these problems and Environment Management Act is a dire need along with Environment Service Cadre for better management of forests and wildlife in India.

Topic: Indian Constitution—historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure.

3. The conventional form of democracy might be inadequate to address the complex issues of our time and there is a need for reimagining of democracy to ensure it remains meaningful and effective. Critically analyse. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Tough

Reference: Indian Express , Insights on India

Why the question:

The article discusses the evolving nature of democracy and its challenges in the contemporary world.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about various issues in Indian democracy, need to safeguarding its crucial aspects and ways to do so.

Directive:

Critically analyze – When asked to analyse, you must examine methodically the structure or nature of the topic by separating it into component parts and present them in a summary. When ‘critically’ is suffixed or prefixed to a directive, one needs to look at the good and bad of the topic and give a balanced judgment on the topic.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Start by defining democratic form of government and its features in brief.

Body:

First, write about the current state of Indian democracy and various issues in it – erosion of democratic values, the concentration of power, and the diminishing space for dissent. Write about its impact by citing examples and statistics.

Next, write about the measures that are needed to counter the above.

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing a way forward.

Introduction

The current state of Indian democracy presents both strengths and challenges that warrant a critical assessment. While India is the world’s largest democracy and has a history of holding regular elections, there are several areas where democratic values need safeguarding and institutional protection.

Body

Various issues plaguing Indian democracy and inclusive measures needed to safeguard democracy

Measures needed

Conclusion

In summary, while India’s democracy has made significant strides, it faces challenges that require attention and action. Safeguarding democratic values, protecting institutions, and fostering an inclusive and participatory political system are essential for India’s continued democratic progress. It demands a collective effort from all stakeholders to uphold the principles of democracy, promote inclusivity, and address the existing gaps and inequalities within the Indian democratic framework.

Topic: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.

4. The deletion of ‘sedition’ is welcome, and its apparent equivalent, the new Section 150 of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita must not be misused to infringe upon free speech rights of the citizens. Analyse. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: The Hindu

Why the question:

Sedition has been done away with Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita but an equivalent exists.

Key Demand of the question:

To discuss the issues related to the implementation of the Sedition law in India and address the demands for its reform.

Directive word:

Analyse – When asked to analyse, you must examine methodically the structure or nature of the topic by separating it into component parts and present them in a summary.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Begin by giving context of deletion of section 124A of IPC.

Body:

In the first part, write about the objectives behind sedition law.

Next, in detail write about the various issues within the sedition law – potential misuse and infringement on freedom of speech, interpretation raises concerns, suppressing legitimate criticism and targeting of activists, journalists, and political opponents etc

Next, write about the need of sedition law in the present day as per Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Write recommendations by law commission.

Conclusion:

Conclude by stating a balanced opinion on the issue.

Introduction

The Central government has introduced three new Bills in the Lok Sabha that propose a complete overhaul of the country’s criminal justice system. The Bills — Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, to replace the Indian Penal Code (IPC), 1860; Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, for the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), 1973; and Bharatiya Sakshya (BS) Bill, 2023, for the Indian Evidence Act, 1872— were referred to a standing committee.

Body

Background

The issues with the new Section 150 of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita

Sedition be completely scrapped:

Arguments in favour of Sedition

Conclusion

The guidelines of the SC must be incorporated in Section 124A as well by amendment to IPC so that any ambiguity must be removed. Only those actions/words that directly result in the use of violence or incitement to violence should be termed seditious. The state police must be sufficiently guided as to where the section must be imposed and where it must not. Need to include provisions where the government can be penalized, if it misuses the section. This will ensure that section 124 A of IPC strikes a balance between security and smooth functioning of state with the fundamental right of freedom of speech and expression.

Topic: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development and employment.

5. What are the objectives monetary policy? Evaluate the major impediments RBI faces in achieving its objectives. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Live Mint , Insights on India

Why the question:

The article discusses how mixed incentives can complicate the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) monetary policy objectives.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the role of RBI especially as part of monetary policy and impediments it faces in achieving it.

Directive word:

Evaluate – When you are asked to evaluate, you have to pass a sound judgement about the truth of the given statement in the question or the topic based on evidence. You must appraise the worth of the statement in question. There is scope for forming an opinion here.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Begin by defining the monetary policy.

Body:

First, in brief, write in brief about the various objecitves of monetary policy.

Next, write about the impediments it faces by RBI in achieving monetary policy objectives – Price Stability, high inflation, particularly in food and fuel prices, delicate balance between stimulating growth and controlling inflation etc. Substantiate by citing statistics.

Conclusion:

Conclude by writing a way forward to overcome the above-mentioned limitations.

Introduction

Monetary policy refers to the policy of the central bank ie Reserve Bank of India, in matters of interest rates, money supply and availability of credit.

In short, Monetary policy refers to the use of monetary instruments under the control of the central bank to regulate magnitudes such as interest rates, money supply and availability of credit with a view to achieving the ultimate objective of economic policy.

Body

Monetary policy committee performance

Impediments faced by RBI

Conclusion

A looming economic recession in many parts of the world, geopolitical tensions, policy rate hikes across world to control unprecedented inflation, and commodity price fluctuations are bound to catch up at some stage and impact India. So far, we have navigated the external threats through smart fiscal and monetary policy moves. The price of crude oil and currency depreciation are two added variables that India has to navigate.

Topic: Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies and minimum support prices;

6. The rising international prices for fertilizers can have significant implications for India’s fertilizer subsidy bill. The government to consider these rising costs in its budget planning and possibly explore strategies to manage the impact of higher fertilizer prices on the subsidy bill. Examine. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Tough

Reference: Live Mint

Why the question:

The article explains how the recent increase in global fertilizer prices will impact India’s subsidy expenditures.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the rising fertiliser prices and its impact and ways to mitigate.

Directive word:

Examine – When asked to ‘Examine’, we must investigate the topic (content words) in detail, inspect it, investigate it and establish the key facts and issues related to the topic in question. While doing so we should explain why these facts and issues are important and their implications.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Briefly by giving context.

Body:

In the first part, provide reasons for rising fertilizer costs – global price surge, including supply chain disruptions and increased demand.

Next, write about Implications of the above for the Indian Agricultural Sector – Discuss the potential impact of urea regulation on crop productivity and soil health, Highlight the economic implications for farmers, fertilizer industry, and government subsidies, Assess the overall effect on food security and sustainability in India

Conclusion:

Conclude with a way forward overcome above issues.

Introduction

With global fertiliser prices on the rise again, the government has an emerging worry ahead of assembly elections in five crucial states (Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Telangana and Mizoram) later this year and the general elections next year. Prices of fertilisers such as urea, di-ammonium phosphate (DAP) and ammonia shot up over the past month after falling towards the end of June.

Global rise in fertiliser prices due to shortage has dealt a severe blow to farmers across India, which is the second-largest importer of fertilisers. Many states have seen cultivators erupting in protest, even as the Centre dismissed news of low availability of fertilisers.

Body

Background

Reasons for rising fertiliser costs

Economic implications

Conclusion and way forward

Value addition

Initiatives taken by government

Topic: Contributions of moral thinkers and philosophers from India and world.

7. Rawls’ ideas have had a significant influence on political philosophy and discussions about justice, equality, and the role of government in ensuring a just society. Elaborate. (150 word)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: hplato.stanford.edu

Why the question:

The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 4.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about Rawls’ theory of justice and its implications

Directive:

Elaborate – Give a detailed account as to how and why it occurred, or what is the particular context. You must be defining key terms where ever appropriate, and substantiate with relevant associated facts.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Begin by giving context of Rawls’ theory of justice.

Body:

Write about the theory – It emphasizes equal basic liberties for all individuals, ensuring personal autonomy and dignity. The difference principle advocates for inequalities that benefit the least advantaged, reducing disparities and providing a safety net for the vulnerable.

Next, write about the criticism of the theory.

Conclusion:

Conclude by summarising.

Introduction

John Rawls was an American moral and political philosopher in the liberal tradition. Rawls’s theory of justice revolves around the adaptation of two fundamental principles of justice which would, in turn, guarantee a just and morally acceptable society. The first principle guarantees the right of each person to have the most extensive basic liberty compatible with the liberty of others. The second principle states that social and economic positions are to be to everyone’s advantage and open to all.

Body:

John Rawls theory of Social Justice guarantees a just and morally acceptable society:

Conclusion:

His works have influenced famous thinkers like Amartya Sen, Thomas Nagel, Thomas Pogge etc. The concept of Social and Economic Justice is adopted in our Constitution in the form of Directive Principles of State Policy.

Value addition:

Basic principles of his theory:

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NOTEGeneral Studies – 1Topic: 1. The diversity in Indian soils can be attributed to the interaction of various factors across the vast and varied geographical and climatic conditions in the country. This diversity has important implications for agriculture, land use planning, and environmental management. Explain. (250 words).Why the question: Key Demand of the question:Directive word: Explain – .Structure of the answer:Introduction: Body:Conclusion:IntroductionIndian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)Alluvial Soil, Black Cotton Soil, Red Soil, Laterite Soil, Mountainous or Forest Soils, Arid or Desert Soil, Saline and Alkaline Soil, Peaty and Marshy SoilBody:Alluvial Soil:Khadar Soil (New) and Bhangar Soil (Old).Black or Regur Soil:Red Soil:Laterite Soil:Mountain Soil:Desert Soil:Peaty and Marshy Soils:Saline and Alkaline Soils:Conclusion:Topic: 2. India’s diverse climatic conditions have given rise to a wide range of natural vegetation types, each adapted to specific environmental conditions. Examine the major threats to vegetation in India. (250 words).Why the question:Key Demand of the question:Directive:ExamineStructure of the answer:Introduction: Body:Conclusion:IntroductionThe natural vegetationBodyTypes of Natural Vegetation in IndiaTropical Evergreen Rain forestsDeciduous or Monsoon type of forestsDry deciduous forestsMountain Forests/Montane ForestsTidal or Mangrove forestsSemi-deserts and Deserts vegetationsMajor threats to vegetation in India:Encroachments:Cattle grazing:Collection of Fire Wood:Man-Animal Conflict:Poaching:Illegal and unsustainable/unscientific collection of Non-Timber Forest Produce:Mining:Mass Tourism and Pilgrimage:Forest Fires:Illicit Felling:Invasive species:Conclusion General Studies – 2Topic: 3. The conventional form of democracy might be inadequate to address the complex issues of our time and there is a need for reimagining of democracy to ensure it remains meaningful and effective. Critically analyse. (250 words)Why the question: Key Demand of the question:Directive:Critically analyzeStructure of the answer:Introduction: Body:Conclusion:IntroductionBodyVarious issues plaguing Indian democracy and inclusive measures needed to safeguard democracyErosion of democratic values: rising intolerance, religious polarization, and social divisions bout curbs on freedom of expression, attacks on dissent, and attempts to suppress voices critical of the government.Eg: Delhi Riots, treatment of women Olympic wrestling champion during protest against sexual harassment.Weakening of institutions: such as the judiciary, media, and election commission, have been subject to scrutiny.Eg: Use of CBI/ED against political opponents of the ruling governmenRaid on BBC channel after running a program that criticised the government.Political polarization:Eg: Caste based polarisation for vote bank politics.Communal and religious tensions:Dynastic politics and concentration of power: Corruption and ethical challenges:Inequality and social exclusion: Eg: Migrant crisis during Covid-19 lockdown showed the exclusionary policies affecting millions in India.Weak implementation of policies and governance issues:Gender inequality and women’s representation:Eg: Women’s Labour force participation is 32.8% which is very low for world’s most populous nation.Measures neededElectoral reforms: Issues such as the influence of money and muscle power, lack of transparency in campaign financing, and the role of criminal elementInclusive participation and representation: Strengthening local governance: Social and economic inequalities: ConclusionTopic: 4. The deletion of ‘sedition’ is welcome, and its apparent equivalent, the new Section 150 of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita must not be misused to infringe upon free speech rights of the citizens. Analyse. (250 words)Why the question: Key Demand of the question: Directive word: Analyse – Structure of the answer:Introduction: Body:Conclusion:IntroductionBharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023Indian Penal Code (IPC), 1860Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), 1973Bharatiya Sakshya (BS) Bill, 2023Indian Evidence Act, 1872BodyBackgroundSection 124A of IPCoffences against the StateThe issues with the new Section 150 of Bharatiya Nyaya SanhitaPart VII of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita BillSection 150Sedition be completely scrapped:Against democratic norms: Inadequate capacity of State Machinery: Possibility of Misuse: The draconian nature Used to gag press: Arguments in favour of SeditionNot really a draconian law: Application is a part of reasonable restrictions: Does not really curb free speech: Threats to unity and integrity of nationMere misuse cannot be a ground of repeal, ConclusionGeneral Studies – 3Topic: 5. What are the objectives monetary policy? Evaluate the major impediments RBI faces in achieving its objectives. (250 words)Why the question: Key Demand of the question: Directive word:EvaluateStructure of the answer:Introduction: Body:Conclusion:IntroductionReserve Bank of India, in interest rates, money supply and availability of credit BodyMonetary policy committee performance MPC has raised interest rates in every meeting to tackle inflation.nd to 5.9% in September 2022.Now in December, RBI raised the repo by 35 basis points. January this year, inflation has remained above the upper thresholdInflation targeting has been successful till 2019 oMPC has mostly continued with the accommodative policy stance, Post-pandemic, the accommodative policy stance was needed Impediments faced by RBI Tighter money policy undermining growth: RBI started raising the interest rate inflation could no longer be ignored,undermine India’s economic recovery.and more rate hikes are in store — will drag down economic growth.Unemployment and poor man’s inflation: widespread unemployment. four-decade high.Dilemma: If RBI continues to tighten monetary policy, it will weaken economic recovery at a time wConclusionTopic: 6. The rising international prices for fertilizers can have significant implications for India’s fertilizer subsidy bill. The government to consider these rising costs in its budget planning and possibly explore strategies to manage the impact of higher fertilizer prices on the subsidy bill. Examine. (250 words)Why the question: Key Demand of the question: Directive word: ExamineStructure of the answer:Introduction: Body:Conclusion:Introduction Prices of fertilisers such as urea, di-ammonium phosphate (DAP) and ammonia shot up over the past month after falling towards the end of June.BodyBackground pays a subsidy to fertiliser producersfarmers to buy fertilisers at below-market rates.subsidy portion borne by the government.urea is the most produced, imported, consumed and physically regulated fertiliser pays a subsidy MRP fixed at Rs 5,628 per tonne. Reasons for rising fertiliser costs Fertiliser prices have risen nearly 30 per 2022, following last year’s 80 per cent surge. 66 per cent from $565 (Rs 44,645) per tonne in May, 2021 to $936 per tonne in May, 2022, according to the Centre’s monthly bulletin for May. surging input costs, supply disruptions due to sanctions (Belarus and Russia)export restrictionsin China. Fertiliser stocks have been declining 9 MT, for instance, compared to 2.5 MT in September 2018.There is a lack of long-term clarity on the quantum of non-urea fertiliser subsidies and, as a result,Economic implicationsfertilisers has also increased. With shortage, farmers are facing the brunt of high input costs. burdens small farmers disproportionately; incentivises production inefficiency, leads to over-use, depleting soil qualityConclusion and way forwardUrease and Nitrification: hydrolysed nitrifiedOther Methods: Single Super Phosphate SSPimport more rock phosphate to make SSP directly or it can be converted into “weak” phosphoric acidMoral Suasion: alongside popularizing high nutrient, use-efficient, water-soluble fertiliser Value additionInitiatives taken by governmentNeem Coating of Urea: mandatory for all the domestic producers to produce 100% ureaNew Urea Policy (NUP) 2015: New Investment Policy- 2012: Use of Space Technology in Fertiliser Sector: “Resource Mapping of Rock Phosphate using Reflectance Spectroscopy and Earth Observations Data”The Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) Scheme: NBS Topic: 7. Rawls’ ideas have had a significant influence on political philosophy and discussions about justice, equality, and the role of government in ensuring a just society. Elaborate. (150 word)Why the question: Key Demand of the question: Directive: Elaborate – Structure of the answer:Introduction: Body:Conclusion:IntroductionJohn Rawlsadaptation of two fundamental principles of justiceguarantee a just and morally acceptable societyguarantees the right of each person to have the most extensive basic liberty compatible with the liberty of otherssocial and economic positions are to be to everyone’s advantage and open to all.Body:John Rawls theory of Social Justice guarantees a just and morally acceptable society:justice as fairnessprinciples of justice is essential to the structure of a constitutional democracyemphasis to fairnessit must be fair to allto the most talented as well as the most disadvantaged sectionidea of a veil of ignorancesocial primary goodsFor example:equal distribution of the “social primary goods”, he envisages “an unequal distribution” of the “social primary goods” if such unequal distribution is “to the advantage of the least favoured”Example:Conclusion:Amartya Sen, Thomas Nagel, Thomas PoggeDirective Principles of State PolicyValue addition:Basic principles of his theory:Principle of Equal Liberty:Difference PrincipleFair equality of opportunity: Difference principle: Official Telegram Channel HEREOur podcast channelHEREYouTube ChannelHERETwitter AccountHEREInstagram IDHEREHERE