UPSC Mains 2025 GS Paper 3 with Answers | UPSC Previous Year Question Papers and Video Analysis PDF Download

Q1: Distinguish between the Human Development Index (HDI) and the Inequality-adjusted Human Development Index (IHDI) with special reference to India. Why is the IHDI considered a better indicator of inclusive growth? (150 words)
Ans:
HDI measures average achievements in health, education, income (India's 2023 HDI: 0.644, rank 134). IHDI adjusts for inequality, discounting HDI by disparities (India's IHDI: 0.475, 30.7% loss).

Distinctions (India Reference):

1. Calculation: HDI uses national averages; IHDI penalizes for uneven distribution across population.
2. Focus: HDI overlooks gaps (e.g., India's gender/wealth divides); IHDI reveals them, showing higher losses in income (47%) than education (12%).
3.  Ranking Impact: India drops in IHDI due to Gini 0.35, highlighting rural-urban divides.

Why IHDI Better for Inclusive Growth:

1. Captures Equity: Reflects true access, essential for SDGs.
2. Policy Guidance: Identifies disparities, aiding targeted interventions like PMAY.
3. Holistic View: Promotes growth benefiting all, not just averages.

IHDI ensures development is equitable, vital for India's diverse society.

Q2: What are the challenges before the Indian economy when the world is moving away from free trade and multilateralism to protectionism and bilateralism? How can these challenges be met? (150 words)
Ans:
Global shift to protectionism (e.g., US tariffs) poses risks to India's $3.5 trillion economy, reliant on exports (20% GDP).

Challenges:

1. Export Barriers: Tariffs disrupt $500 billion exports, affecting textiles/IT.
2. Supply Chain Disruptions: Geopolitical tensions raise costs, inflation.
3. FDI Volatility: Bilateral deals favor stronger partners, reducing inflows.
4. Domestic Competitiveness: Subsidies elsewhere disadvantage MSMEs.

Meeting Challenges:

1. Diversify Trade: FTAs with EU, UK; join RCEP-like pacts.
2. Boost Self-Reliance: PLI schemes for manufacturing resilience.
3. Strengthen Bilateral Ties: India-US deals, Quad for supply chains.
4. WTO Advocacy: Push reforms for fair multilateralism.

Adaptive policies will safeguard growth towards $5 trillion.

Q3: Explain the factors influencing the decision of the farmers on the selection of high value crops in India. (150 words)
Ans:
High-value crops (HVCs) like fruits, spices, contribute 60% to horticulture output in India, driven by diversification for higher incomes.

Influencing Factors:

1. Economic: Higher profitability (e.g., spices yield 3x staples); market demand via exports ($10 billion).
2. Agro-climatic: Suitability of soil, water, climate; e.g., apples in Himalayas.
3. Infrastructure: Access to irrigation, cold storage, transport reduces risks.
4. Policy Support: Subsidies under NHM, MSP for some HVCs; credit availability.
5. Social: Education, risk appetite; globalization influences exotic crops like kiwi.
6. Environmental: Climate resilience; shifts due to water scarcity.

These factors enable farmers to enhance livelihoods, but challenges like volatility need addressing.

Q4: Elaborate the scope and significance of supply chain management of agricultural commodities in India. (150 words)
Ans:
Agricultural supply chain management (SCM) in India encompasses input procurement to consumer delivery, vital for a sector contributing 18% GDP and employing 45% workforce.

Scope:

1. Pre-harvest: Seeds, fertilizers, advisory services.
2. Post-harvest: Harvesting, storage, processing (e.g., cold chains).
3. Distribution: Logistics, markets, exports ($50 billion in 2024).
4. Tech Integration: IoT, blockchain for traceability.

Significance:

1. Reduces Wastage: Cuts 20-30% losses, enhancing food security.
2. Boosts Farmer Income: Direct markets, e-NAM double earnings.
3. Economic Growth: Supports agro-processing, jobs (1.9 crore).
4. Sustainability: Efficient chains lower emissions, promote exports.

Robust SCM is key to doubling incomes and global competitiveness by 2047.

Q5: The fusion energy programme in India has steadily evolved over the past few decades. Mention India's contributions to the international fusion energy project International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER). What will be the implications of the success of this project for the future of global energy? (150 words)
Ans:
India's fusion program, via IPR and SST-1 tokamak, has advanced since 1980s, joining ITER in 2005 with 9.1% contribution.

India's Contributions to ITER:

1. Cryostat: World's largest stainless-steel vacuum vessel, fabricated and delivered.
2. Cooling systems: Cryo-distribution lines and in-wall shielding.
3. Diagnostics: Tools for plasma measurement.
4. R&D: Superconducting magnets and tritium breeding tech.

Implications of Success:

1. Limitless Clean Energy: Fusion provides safe, zero-emission power, reducing fossil dependence.
2. Energy Security: Fuels like deuterium abundant, ending import vulnerabilities.
3. Climate Mitigation: No CO₂, aiding 1.5°C goal.
4. Economic Transformation: New industries, jobs; DEMO reactors by 2050.

ITER's success will revolutionize global energy, fostering sustainable development.

Q6: How can India achieve energy independence through clean technology by 2047? How can biotechnology can play a crucial role in this endeavour? (150 words)
Ans:
India aims for energy independence by 2047 via clean tech, targeting 500 GW non-fossil capacity and net-zero by 2070, reducing imports (85% oil).
Achieving Independence:

1. Scale renewables: Solar/wind to 1 TW, with green hydrogen hubs.
2. Electrify transport: Aim for 30% EV penetration in vehicle sales by 2030, with higher targets for two-wheelers (80%) and commercial vehicles (70%)"
3. Nuclear expansion: 100 GW capacity.
4. Efficiency measures: LED adoption, smart grids.

Role of Biotechnology:

1. Biofuels: Algae-based biodiesel, enzyme-enhanced ethanol from waste.
2. Bioenergy: GM crops for higher biomass yields.
3. Carbon sequestration: Microbial tech for soil CO₂ capture.
4. Sustainable agriculture: Reducing methane via biotech feeds.

Biotech integrates with clean tech for resilient, low-carbon energy, aligning with Amrit Kaal vision.

Q7: What is Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage (CCUS)? What is the potential role of CCUS in tackling climate change? (150 words)
Ans:
CCUS is a suite of technologies that capture CO₂ emissions from sources like power plants, utilize it (e.g., in chemicals), and store it underground to prevent atmospheric release. In India, CCUS targets hard-to-abate sectors, with potential to capture 750 MT CO₂ annually by 2050.

Potential Role in Tackling Climate Change:

1. Emission Reduction: Enables deep decarbonization in industries like steel/cement, contributing to net-zero by 2070.
2. Energy Transition: Supports blue hydrogen production, bridging fossil-to-renewable shift.
3. Economic Benefits: Creates jobs; utilizes captured CO₂ for EOR, boosting oil recovery by 15-20%.
4. Global Mitigation: Aligns with Paris goals; India's policy roadmap (2022) aims for 500 MT storage.

CCUS is indispensable for limiting warming to 1.5°C, but requires incentives and infrastructure for scalability.

Q8: Seawater intrusion in the coastal aquifers is a major concern in India. What are the causes of seawater intrusion and the remedial measures to combat this hazard? (150 words)
Ans:
Seawater intrusion contaminates coastal aquifers in India, affecting regions like Tamil Nadu and Gujarat, where over-extraction has led to salinity in 60% of aquifers, impacting 250 million people.

Causes:

1. Over-pumping of groundwater for irrigation and urbanization, lowering freshwater pressure.
2. Sea-level rise (3.7 mm/year) due to climate change, pushing saline water inland.
3. Reduced recharge from dams, canals, and deforestation.
4. Coastal infrastructure destroying mangroves, natural barriers.

Remedial Measures:

1. Artificial recharge structures like percolation ponds and check dams.
2. Regulate extraction via groundwater laws and monitoring.
3. Construct subsurface barriers or salinity dykes.
4. Promote desalination, rainwater harvesting, and salt-tolerant crops.

Integrated coastal zone management, as per CRZ rules, is vital to safeguard aquifers and ensure water security.

Q9: Terrorism is a global scourge. How has it manifested in India? Elaborate with contemporary examples. What are the counter measures adopted by the State? Explain. (150 words)
Ans:
Terrorism in India manifests as separatist insurgency, religious extremism, and cross-border attacks, claiming 71,000 lives since 1990.

• Manifestations with Examples: Kashmir militancy (e.g., 2024 Reasi attack killing 9 pilgrims); NE ethnic violence (Manipur clashes); urban bombings (e.g., 2024 Pune ISIS module bust); cyber-radicalization via ISIS/Al-Qaeda; narco-terror from Pakistan.
• Counter Measures: Legal- UAPA amendments for stringent trials; NIA for investigations. Operational: NSG, intelligence fusion via MAC.
• International: FATF compliance, bilateral pacts (India-US). 
• Preventive: De-radicalization programs, border fencing; reduced incidents via surgical strikes. Holistic approach integrates security and development.

Q10: The Government of India recently stated that Left Wing Extremism (LWE) will be eliminated by 2026. What do you understand by LWE and how are the people affected by it? What measures have been taken by the government to eliminate LWE? (150 words)
Ans:
Left Wing Extremism (LWE), or Maoist insurgency, is an armed rebellion seeking to overthrow the state through violent revolution, rooted in socio-economic grievances like land rights and inequality. It affects tribal belts in 38 districts across 10 states.

• Effects on People: Disrupts development, causing violence (1,868 deaths 2014-23), displacement, and extortion; hinders education/health access, perpetuating poverty in affected areas.
• Government Measures: Multi-pronged strategy under SAMADHAN: Security ops eliminated ~300 cadres in 2025; development via roads (12,000 km), schools; surrenders (14,000 since 2014); intelligence via modern tech; aim for zero violence by March 2026. Reduced incidents by 53%.

Q11: Explain how the Fiscal Health Index (FHI) can be used as a tool for assessing the fiscal performance of states in India. In what way would it encourage the states to adopt prudent and sustainable fiscal policies? (250 words)

Ans:
Launched by NITI Aayog in 2025, the Fiscal Health Index (FHI) evaluates 18 major states' fiscal performance using a composite score (0-1), analyzing post-COVID recovery and FRBM compliance.

Use as Assessment Tool:

1. Multi-Dimensional Evaluation: Comprises five sub-indices: expenditure quality (capital vs revenue), revenue efficiency (own taxes/GSDP), debt sustainability (debt/GSDP <25%), fiscal space (deficit <3%), and resilience (contingency funds).
2. Comparative Ranking: Scores states (e.g., Odisha tops at 0.68, Punjab lowest); highlights strengths/weaknesses for targeted reforms.
3. Data-Driven Insights: Uses FY 2021-24 data from RBI, CAG; assesses alignment with SDGs and national goals.
4. Policy Benchmarking: Identifies gaps like high subsidies in low-ranked states, aiding Finance Commission devolution.

Encouragement for Prudent Policies:

1. Incentive Mechanism: Higher rankings attract investments, better credit ratings, reducing borrowing costs.
2. Peer Pressure and Accountability: Public disclosure fosters competition; low scores prompt electoral scrutiny.
3. Reform Guidance: Recommends shifts to capex (e.g., >15% budget), own revenue augmentation, curbing populism.
4. Long-Term Sustainability: Links to central grants; encourages contingency planning against shocks like pandemics.

FHI promotes cooperative federalism, ensuring states contribute to Viksit Bharat by 2047 through fiscal discipline.

Q12: Discuss the rationale of the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme. What are its achievements? In what way can the functioning and outcomes of the scheme be improved? (250 words)
Ans:
Launched in 2020 amid COVID-19, the PLI scheme incentivizes manufacturing in 14 sectors with ₹1.97 lakh crore outlay to boost self-reliance, reduce imports, and integrate India into global value chains.

Rationale:

1. Enhance Competitiveness: Performance-based incentives (4-6% on incremental sales) encourage scale, innovation, and exports.
2. Job Creation and Investment: Attract FDI, create 1 crore jobs by fostering domestic ecosystems.
3. Reduce Import Dependence: Target strategic sectors like electronics, pharma to counter China+1 strategy.
4. Economic Resilience: Aligns with Atmanirbhar Bharat, addressing supply chain disruptions.

Achievements:

1. Investments and Production: ₹1.76 lakh crore realized by 2025; 806 approvals boosted output in mobiles (from 5.8 crore to 33 crore units).
2. Exports Growth: Electronics exports up 300% to $24 billion; overall PLI exports ₹3.4 lakh crore.
3. Employment: Generated 12 lakh jobs; reduced import bills in pharma, steel.
4. Sectoral Impact: Semiconductors, drones saw new fabs; PLI 2.0 extended benefits.

Ways to Improve Functioning and Outcomes:

1. Streamline Processes: Reduce bureaucratic delays in approvals/disbursals via digital portals.
2. Expand Scope: Include emerging sectors like green hydrogen; extend sunset clauses beyond 2025.
3. Skill and R&D Focus: Link incentives to training/R&D investments for sustainability.
4. Monitoring and Inclusivity: Independent audits; prioritize MSMEs for equitable growth.

Enhanced PLI can propel India towards $5 trillion economy.

Q13: Examine the factors responsible for depleting groundwater in India. What are the steps taken by the government to mitigate such depletion of groundwater? (250 words)
Ans:
India, the largest groundwater extractor globally (25% of world total), faces depletion with 60% districts at critical levels, projected low by 2025 in northwest. Overextraction threatens agriculture (70% reliance) and drinking water for 85% rural population.

Factors Responsible:

1. Agricultural Overuse: 89% extraction for irrigation; subsidized electricity encourages water-intensive crops like rice/paddy in Punjab-Haryana.
2. Urbanization and Industrial Demand: Rapid growth, illegal borewells, and pollution from industries contaminate aquifers.
3. Climate Change: Erratic monsoons reduce recharge; summer drying accelerates depletion in north India.
4. Poor Governance: Lack of regulation, over-privatization, and weak enforcement lead to unsustainable withdrawal.

Government Steps to Mitigate:

1. Atal Bhujal Yojana (2020): ₹6,000 crore for community-led management in 80 districts across 7 states; improved recharge in water-stressed areas.
2. Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Focuses on rainwater harvesting, check-dams; reversed trends in select blocks via public participation.
3. Regulatory Measures: Model Groundwater Bill 2020 for extraction limits; CGWA notifications ban new borewells in critical zones.
4. Agricultural Reforms: PM Krishi Sinchayee Yojana promotes micro-irrigation; crop diversification incentives reduce water use.

These efforts emphasize sustainability, but integrated basin management and enforcement are crucial for reversal.

Q14: Examine the scope of the food processing industries in India. Elaborate the measures taken by the government in the food processing industries for generating employment opportunities. (250 words)
Ans:
India's food processing industry, the 6th largest globally, is poised to reach $535 billion by 2025-26, growing at a CAGR of 11%. Contributing ~10% to manufacturing GDP and ~12% of exports, it leverages abundant agricultural produce (2nd largest globally) but processes only 10% output, indicating vast untapped potential amid rising urbanization and demand for ready-to-eat foods.

Scope:

1. Economic Growth: Attracts FDI worth $13.1 billion (April 2000-March 2025); sectors like dairy, fruits/vegetables, and marine products dominate.
2. Potential: Employs 1.93 crore people, with scope for 90 lakh more jobs by 2025 via value addition and exports.
3. Export and Innovation: Organic segment to hit $9 billion by 2025; tech integration like cold chains expands markets.
4. Regional Development: Focus on Tier-2/3 cities, reducing wastage (20-30% perishables) through processing hubs.

Government Measures for Employment:

1. PLI Scheme for Food Processing (PLISFPI): ₹10,900 crore outlay; created 2.5 lakh jobs, benefiting 9 lakh farmers via incentives for production/sales.
2. PMFME Scheme: Supports micro-units with credit-linked subsidies; generated 4.33 lakh jobs by June 2025.
3. NABARD Food Processing Fund: ₹2,000 crore for affordable credit, infrastructure like mega parks.
4. Agro-Processing Clusters: 1,600 projects funded, creating 41 lakh tonnes capacity and jobs in rural areas.

These initiatives foster inclusive growth, but skill gaps and infrastructure need addressing for sustained employment.

Q15: How does nanotechnology offer significant advancements in the field of agriculture? How can this technology help to uplift the socio-economic status of farmers? (250 words)
Ans:
Nanotechnology revolutionizes agriculture by enabling precision farming, addressing challenges like low productivity and climate variability in India, where agriculture employs 45% workforce but contributes 18% GDP. Nano-tools enhance efficiency, reducing input costs.

Advancements in Agriculture:

1. Nano-Fertilizers and Pesticides: Controlled release (e.g., nano-urea) improves nutrient uptake by 80%, minimizing leaching and pollution.
2. Precision Monitoring: Nanosensors detect soil moisture, pH, pathogens in real-time, enabling data-driven decisions via IoT.
3. Crop Protection: Nano-encapsulated herbicides target weeds, reducing chemical use by 50%; nano-coatings extend shelf life.
4. Genetic Enhancement: Nano-delivery systems for genes/seeds boost drought-resistant varieties, increasing yields.
5. Water Management: Nano-membranes purify irrigation water; hydrogels retain soil moisture in arid areas.

Uplifting Socio-Economic Status of Farmers:

1. Increased Productivity and Income: Higher yields (20-30% via nano-inputs) raise incomes; reduced losses from pests enhance market value.
2. Cost Reduction: Lower agrochemical needs cut expenses by 40%; affordable nano-kits empower smallholders.
3. Sustainable Practices: Eco-friendly methods preserve soil health, ensuring long-term viability; access to markets via quality produce.
4. Employment and Skills: Nano-agri creates jobs in rural tech; training programs build digital literacy.
5. Resilience to Climate Change: Adaptive tech mitigates risks, stabilizing earnings; government schemes like Nano Mission integrate subsidies.

By bridging yield gaps and promoting inclusivity, nanotechnology can transform farmers into agri-entrepreneurs, aligning with SDGs for poverty alleviation and food security.

Q16: India aims to become a semiconductor manufacturing hub. What are the challenges faced by the semiconductor industry in India? Mention the salient features of the India Semiconductor Mission. (250 words)
Ans:
India's semiconductor push targets a $1 trillion digital economy by 2025, but the industry, valued at $27 billion (design-focused), faces hurdles in fabrication amid global shortages. With 20% global design talent, scaling manufacturing is key.

Challenges Faced:

1. High Capital Intensity: Fab setup costs $10-12 billion; long gestation (3-5 years) deters investors.
2. Infrastructure Deficits: Requires ultra-pure water (millions liters/day), stable power; seismic zones and logistics issues in sites like Gujarat.
3. Talent and Technology Gaps: Shortage of 300,000 skilled engineers; limited IP and advanced tech transfer from global leaders.
4. Supply Chain Dependencies: 100% imports for raw materials like silicon wafers; geopolitical risks (Taiwan dominance).
5. Regulatory and Execution Hurdles: Delays in approvals; competition from China, Vietnam with established ecosystems.

Salient Features of India Semiconductor Mission (ISM):

1. Financial Incentives: 50% fiscal support for fabs, ATMP, and design; $10 billion outlay.
2. Scheme Components: Production Linked Incentive (PLI) for design; support for compound semis and packaging.
3. Ecosystem Development: Partnerships for skill training (1 million workforce by 2030); R&D hubs like Semi-Conductor Laboratory upgrade.
4. Strategic Projects: Approved 10 units (e.g., Tata's Assam fab, Micron's Gujarat ATMP) worth $18 billion.
5. Global Integration: Alliances like US-India iCET for tech transfer; focus on self-reliance via Deep Tech Alliance ($1 billion fund).

ISM's holistic approach can overcome challenges, positioning India as a global hub by fostering innovation and jobs.

Q17: Mineral resources are fundamental to the country's economy and these are exploited by mining. Why is mining considered an environmental hazard? Explain the remedial measures required to reduce the environmental hazard due to mining. (250 words)
Ans:
Mining contributes ~2.5% to India's GDP, extracting vital minerals like coal (8th largest reserves) for energy and industry, but it's a major environmental hazard causing irreversible damage. Unsustainable practices exacerbate pollution and biodiversity loss.

Why Mining is an Environmental Hazard:

1. Land Degradation: Deforestation and soil erosion; open-cast mining in Jharia coalfields has created sinkholes, displacing communities.
2. Water Pollution: Acid mine drainage contaminates rivers; heavy metals from chromite mining in Sukinda Valley pollute groundwater, affecting health.
3. Air Pollution: Dust and emissions (SO2, NOx) from blasting; coal mines contribute to respiratory diseases in miners.
4. Biodiversity Loss: Habitat destruction in biodiversity hotspots like Western Ghats; wildlife corridors disrupted.
5. Waste Generation: Overburden dumps lead to landslides; tailings from uranium mining pose radioactive risks.

Remedial Measures:

1. Regulatory Frameworks: Enforce EIA under Environment Protection Act 1986; adopt National Mineral Policy 2019 for sustainable mining.
2. Technological Interventions: Use precision mining and bio-remediation; implement zero-liquid discharge in water management.
3. Rehabilitation and Restoration: Mandatory mine closure plans with afforestation; convert mined areas into eco-parks (e.g., Neyveli Lignite).
4. Monitoring and Community Involvement: Real-time pollution monitoring; involve locals in oversight via District Mineral Foundations.
5. Green Mining Practices: Promote recycling and circular economy; incentivize low-impact tech like in-situ leaching.

Integrating these measures will minimize hazards, ensuring mining supports Viksit Bharat while preserving ecology for future generations.

Q18: Write a review on India's climate commitments under the Paris Agreement (2015) and mention how these have been further strengthened in COP26 (2021). In this direction, how has the first Nationally Determined Contribution intended by India been updated in 2022? (250 words)
Ans:
India's commitments under the Paris Agreement (2015) marked a balanced approach to climate action, aligning development with emission reductions as a developing nation emitting ~7% of global GHGs. As a vulnerable country facing extreme weather, these pledges emphasized equity and common but differentiated responsibilities.

Paris Agreement Commitments (2015):

1. Emission Intensity Reduction: 33-35% cut in GDP emission intensity by 2030 from 2005 levels.
2. Non-Fossil Energy: 40% installed power capacity from non-fossil sources by 2030.
3. Carbon Sink: Create additional sink of 2.5-3 billion tonnes CO2 equivalent through forestry.

These were ambitious yet achievable, focusing on renewable energy scaling (e.g., solar parks).

Strengthening at COP26 (2021):
India's "Panchamrit" pledges elevated ambitions:

1. Renewable Capacity: 500 GW non-fossil energy by 2030.
2. Emission Cuts: Reduce 1 billion tonnes CO2 by 2030; 45% intensity reduction.
3. Net Zero: Achieve by 2070, later than developed nations.
4. Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE): Promoted sustainable living; enhanced focus on hydrogen and biofuels.

2022 NDC Update:
India's updated NDC formalized COP26 pledges:

1. Enhanced Targets: Emission intensity to 45% reduction; 50% cumulative electric power from non-fossils by 2030.
2. Lifestyle Integration: Incorporated Mission LiFE for behavioral changes.
3. Sectoral Focus: Emphasized adaptation in agriculture, water; no absolute emission caps, prioritizing growth.

Progress includes ~33% intensity reduction by 2019 and 176 GW renewables. However, coal dependence remains a challenge. Future NDCs (2025) must accelerate just transitions for sustainable development.

Q19: What are the major challenges to internal security and peace process in the North-Eastern States? Map the various peace accords and agreements initiated by the government in the past decade. (250 words)

Ans:
The North-Eastern States (NES), sharing 98% international borders, face persistent internal security challenges despite an 80% decline in insurgency incidents since 2014. Ethnic diversity and historical grievances hinder peace, impacting development and integration.

Major Challenges:

1. ​Insurgency and Ethnic Conflicts: Active groups like NSCN factions fuel violence; Manipur's 2023-24 ethnic clashes between Meitei-Kuki displaced thousands.
2. ​Border Vulnerabilities: Porous borders with Myanmar, Bangladesh facilitate arms smuggling, drug trafficking (golden triangle nexus), and illegal migration.
3. ​Inter-State Disputes: Boundary issues (e.g., Assam-Meghalaya) lead to clashes; resource competition exacerbates tensions.
4. ​Socio-Economic Factors: Underdevelopment, unemployment, and corruption breed discontent; AFSPA's prolonged use erodes trust.
5. ​External Influences: China's support to insurgents and cross-border sanctuaries complicate peace efforts.

Peace Accords and Agreements (2015-2025):

1. ​NSCN-IM Framework Agreement (2015): Aimed at Naga political solution; ongoing talks for autonomy.
2. ​NLFT Accord (2019): Surrender of Tripura militants, rehabilitation of cadres.
3. ​Bodo Accord (2020): Granted territorial council enhanced powers in Assam, reducing violence.
4. ​Bru-Reang Agreement (2020): Resettlement of displaced tribes from Mizoram to Tripura.
5. ​Karbi Anglong Agreement (2021): Peace with Assam insurgent groups, focusing on development.
6. ​UNLF Accord (2023): Manipur's oldest insurgent group signed ceasefire.
7. ​ULFA-I Talks (2024-25): Ongoing dialogues for Assam peace; recent tripartite agreements with Dimasa groups.

These accords have surrendered over 10,000 cadres, but implementation gaps persist. A holistic approach integrating security, development (e.g., NEC projects), and dialogue is essential for lasting peace.

Q20: Why is maritime security vital to protect India's sea trade? Discuss maritime and coastal security challenges and the way forward. (250 words)
Ans:
India's maritime domain is crucial for economic growth, with over 95% of trade by volume and 70% by value transported via sea routes, contributing to a $2.7 trillion economy. Secure sea lanes ensure uninterrupted supply chains for energy imports (80% oil) and exports, bolstering national security and geopolitical influence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

Maritime and Coastal Security Challenges:

1. Geopolitical Tensions: China's assertive presence in IOR, including string-of-pearls strategy, threatens chokepoints like Strait of Malacca; disputes in South China Sea disrupt trade flows.
2. Non-Traditional Threats: Piracy, smuggling, and illegal fishing; coastal vulnerabilities to terrorism (e.g., 26/11 Mumbai attacks) and human trafficking.
3. Environmental and Climate Risks: Rising sea levels, cyclones, and pollution affect ports; illegal, unreported fishing depletes marine resources.
4. Infrastructure Gaps: Inadequate surveillance along 7,500 km coastline; cyber threats to shipping networks.

Way Forward:

1. Policy Frameworks: Strengthen SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) initiative for regional cooperation; enhance QUAD and IORA partnerships.
2. Technological Upgrades: Deploy advanced surveillance like coastal radar chains, drones, and AI for threat detection; modernize Indian Navy with indigenous vessels.
3. Capacity Building: Multi-agency coordination via National Maritime Security Coordinator; invest in blue economy for sustainable development.
4. International Collaboration: Joint exercises (e.g., Malabar) and information sharing under UNCLOS.

Robust maritime security will safeguard India's trade ambitions, fostering a resilient blue economy and strategic autonomy by 2047.