IAS Essays: Approach and Analysis | UPSC Mains Essay Preparation PDF Download

Introduction

To write a good essay, it's important to understand the basic principles behind the topics and the key ideas they involve. This understanding helps in recognizing the themes present in the essays. Looking at previous essay topics can provide insight into the complexities of these essays. For instance, consider the following topics:

• Moratorium on Mining in Tribal Areas: Should there be a pause on all new mining activities in the tribal regions of the country?
• India's Global Leadership: Is our society ready for India's role as a global leader?
• Shift in Philanthropy: Is the change from traditional Indian philanthropy to the Gates-Buffett model a natural progression or a fundamental shift?

The First Essay Topic

• Moratorium on Mining in Tribal Areas : The debate on imposing a moratorium on fresh mining in tribal areas revolves around balancing developmental needs with the preservation of tribal culture. On one hand, industrialization is essential for improving living standards and addressing poverty. On the other hand, protecting the heritage and rights of tribal communities is a moral and national responsibility. This essay explores the complexities of this issue and proposes a balanced approach to address it.
• Developmental Responsibilities : Industrialization plays a critical role in boosting production and eradicating poverty and hunger. The exploration of mineral-rich areas, typically located in plateaus and hilly regions, is essential for meeting developmental objectives. Rapid industrialization can uplift the living standards of a significant portion of the population, ensuring economic growth and progress.
• Preservation of Tribal Culture : Tribal communities embody a unique and ancient heritage, characterized by distinct values, practices, and lifestyles. This heritage is endangered and faces the risk of extinction due to the encroachment of industrial activities. Preserving their way of life is a national, moral, and humane obligation, particularly as the benefits of development often bypass these communities.
• Need for a Balanced Approach :Addressing both development and the preservation of tribal culture requires a mature and innovative approach. Permission for mining should be granted only in areas where the displacement of tribal populations is minimal and viable alternative habitats can be provided. This approach would minimize the adverse impact on tribal communities while allowing for necessary industrial activities.
• Learning from Past Displacements :The experiences of past displacements have revealed significant challenges and unmet expectations, highlighting the need for better strategies. Tribal habitats can be classified into three categories:
   a) Special Cases: Unique habitats with no viable alternatives, requiring strict protection.
  b) Areas with Alternatives: Regions where displacement options are available and can be implemented responsibly.
  c) Adaptable Regions: Areas where tribes are willing and able to integrate into a mainstream lifestyle with adequate support.

Hence, A blanket ban on fresh mining in tribal areas would undermine developmental goals, while unrestricted mining would erode the rich heritage of tribal communities. A balanced approach that respects both development needs and tribal interests is crucial. By adopting innovative and inclusive policies, it is possible to achieve sustainable progress while safeguarding the invaluable cultural legacy of tribal communities.

The Second Essay Topic

• Preparedness of Indian Society for Global Leadership

  The topic of India's global leadership role is likely to resonate with students from various fields such as history, sociology, public administration, literature, and philosophy. It offers ample scope for students to express their ideas and present a fresh perspective. A survey indicates that over 80% of students prefer this essay as it helps them connect their studies with the understanding of India.

• Ancient India: India was known as the 'World Guru' or 'World Leader' due to its prosperity, spirituality, well-being, and welfare-based governance. Indian society, with a recorded history of over 5000 years, can be divided into ancient, medieval, modern, and contemporary periods. Throughout these periods, India witnessed development in three dimensions: spiritual, psychic (attitudinal), and physical. 

• Spiritual Development:. spiritually advanced society is characterized by openness, liberal thinking, and a universalistic approach, reflecting high human rationality and scientific temper. Ancient India practiced values like 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' (the world is one family) and 'Sarvam Khalvidam Brahma' (everything is Brahman), indicating a strong spiritual foundation. 

• Psychic Development: This dimension includes mental and attitudinal aspects, such as the coherence and viewpoint of the younger generation. While there have been advancements, contemporary society faces challenges like mental disorders, frustrations, and anxieties. 

• Physical Development:. developed society meets the basic amenities of its people, ensures a decent standard of life, and empowers them with prosperity. The advancements in technology and infrastructure reflect physical growth. However, this dimension also carries risks, such as accidents and societal issues arising from rapid development. 

• Historical Context:Ancient and Medieval Periods: Spirituality was a core aspect of Indian society, with strong values, ethics, and a confident social consciousness. The living standards were good, and people were physically and psychically well-off. 

• Modern Period: The European invasion and British colonization severely impacted Indian society. The British implemented the 'Drain of Wealth' policy, exploiting Indian resources and damaging the economy and mindset of the people. Despite this exploitation, spirituality remained intact. 

• Post-Independence: Visionary leaders laid a strong foundation for governance based on democracy, socialism, and secularism. The Constitution of India, one of the largest written constitutions, reflects these principles and has contributed to self-reliance in food production and basic needs. 

• Current Scenario: India is recognized as one of the fastest-growing economies and is playing a leadership role in various international organizations. The shift from seeking help in the 1960s to being a sought-after partner reflects this growth. India’s involvement in organizations like ASEAN, SAARC, G-20, and its observer status in G-8, SCO, and EU highlights its significant role and respect in international forums. 

• Spirituality and Development: The harmonious coexistence principles of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and India’s role in the UN reflect its commitment to humanism and universalism. The post-independence period has seen rapid physical recovery, improving psychological status, and social awareness among Indians. 

• Future Prospects: Despite challenges like poverty, unemployment, and illiteracy, India’s democratic functioning, education, and governance indicate the potential for eliminating these social evils. The balance in spiritual, psychic, and physical dimensions positions India for regaining its status as a global leader. 

The essay presents a comprehensive view of India's journey and preparedness for global leadership, emphasizing the unique social setup that harmonizes all three fundamental pillars of development.

The Third Essay Topic

 From Traditional Indian Philanthropy to the Gates-Buffett Model: Natural Progress or Paradigm Shift? 

• Understanding 'Paropkara' and Philanthropy: In India, the concept of philanthropy has deep roots, known as 'Paropkara,' which translates to 'service to others.' This idea is based on the belief that helping others is a duty, regardless of one's wealth. Historically, figures like Raja Harishchandra, Raja Bhoja, and Ashoka exemplified this form of philanthropy, where the act of giving was seen as an obligation, not a favor. 
•  In contrast, contemporary Western philanthropy, as popularized by figures like Bill Gates and Warren Buffett, often emphasizes the choice and privilege of giving, along with the fame and recognition that comes with it. This shift in mindset has influenced many newly wealthy Indians, leading them to adopt a more Westernized approach to philanthropy. 
• Natural Progress or Paradigm Shift? The question of whether this change represents a natural evolution or a paradigm shift is crucial. Modernization in India should not be equated with Westernization. Instead, it should be rooted in principles of democracy, socialism, equality, secularism, freedom, and universalism. The current practice of philanthropy by newly wealthy Indians reflects this shift in mindset. 

In conclusion, the evolution of philanthropy in India from 'Paropkara' to a model influenced by Western figures like Gates and Buffett signifies a paradigm shift rather than a natural progression. This change is not just about adopting new practices but reflects a deeper transformation in values and beliefs about giving and service to others.