UPSC Mains Answer PYQ 2023: Geography Paper 2 (Section- A) | UPSC Previous Year Question Papers and Video Analysis PDF Download

Section - A

Q1: 
(a) On the outline map of India provided to you, mark the location of all of the following. Write in your QCA Booklet the significance of these locations, whether physical/ commercial/ economic/ ecological / environmental / cultural, in not more than 30 words for each entry:
(i) Nathula
(ii) Hutti
(iii) Rose Island
(iv) Moreh
(v) Ramappa
(vi) Namdapha National park
(vii) Sela Tunnel
(viii) Ennore Port
(ix) Ramagundam
(x) Betwa River

(b) Describe the origin, distribution and economic significance of Gondwana system of rocks in India.
Ans: 
Introduction:
The Gondwana system of rocks in India is a critical geological formation that holds a significant place in the country's geological history. It is characterized by its unique origin, widespread distribution, and substantial economic importance.

Origin:

• Formation: The Gondwana system of rocks was formed during the Paleozoic and Mesozoic eras, approximately 300 to 150 million years ago. This formation is a result of the consolidation of sediments, including sand, shale, and coal, which accumulated in a vast inland basin.

Distribution:

• Geographical Extent: The Gondwana rocks are widely distributed across India and cover a significant portion of the Indian subcontinent. They can be found in several states, including Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Maharashtra, and parts of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.

• Rock Types: The Gondwana rocks consist of various types, including sandstone, shale, and coal deposits. Some of the most well-known formations within the Gondwana system are the Damuda, Panchet, and Kamthi series.

Economic Significance:

• Coal Reserves: One of the primary economic contributions of Gondwana rocks is their vast coal reserves. India has substantial coal deposits in states like Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and West Bengal, which are crucial for the country's energy needs and industrial development.

• Fossil Fuels: Apart from coal, these rocks also contain natural gas and oil deposits, although they are comparatively less extensive than the coal reserves.

• Biodiversity: The Gondwana system houses a rich geological history, which is of immense scientific and ecological importance. The rocks have preserved a record of ancient flora and fauna, contributing to the understanding of prehistoric life forms.

Conclusion: 
The Gondwana system of rocks in India is a valuable geological resource. It has played a pivotal role in shaping the country's energy sector and offers insight into its geological past. The economic significance of the vast coal reserves within these rocks is especially noteworthy.

(c) Examine the role of Indian Earth Observation Satellite Technology in enhancing weather forecasting and disaster management.
Ans:
Introduction:
India's Earth Observation Satellite Technology has made significant strides in improving weather forecasting and disaster management in the country. These advancements have far-reaching implications for mitigating natural disasters and enhancing preparedness.

Enhancing Weather Forecasting:

• Remote Sensing: Indian Earth Observation Satellites equipped with advanced remote sensing instruments provide real-time data on weather patterns, including cloud cover, temperature, and precipitation. This information is vital for accurate weather forecasting.

• Improved Cyclone Prediction: The precise tracking of cyclones and their intensification helps in timely evacuation and preparedness. For instance, the accurate prediction of Cyclone Phailin in 2013 saved many lives.

• Monsoon Prediction: India's monsoon-dependent agriculture benefits from satellite data, which aids in predicting monsoon onset, duration, and intensity. Farmers can plan their agricultural activities accordingly.

Disaster Management:

• Early Warning Systems: Earth Observation Satellites are instrumental in creating early warning systems for various natural disasters, including floods, landslides, and forest fires. They provide real-time information to disaster management authorities.

• Flood Monitoring: During the monsoon season, satellites monitor river levels, enabling timely flood alerts. The National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) in India provides such data, allowing for quick response and relief efforts.

• Forest Fire Detection: Satellite technology is crucial in identifying forest fires, enabling rapid responses to contain and control them. The Forest Survey of India uses this data for forest conservation and fire management.

Example: The Landsat and RESOURCESAT series of satellites have been instrumental in monitoring natural disasters and improving weather forecasting in India.

Conclusion:
Indian Earth Observation Satellite Technology has revolutionized weather forecasting and disaster management. Its contribution in early warning systems, cyclone prediction, and flood monitoring has not only saved lives but also minimized economic losses due to natural disasters.

(d) Discuss the impact of the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010 on forest conservation in India.
Ans:
Introduction:
The National Green Tribunal Act, 2010, was established to address environmental issues in India, including those related to forest conservation. It has had a significant impact on the country's efforts to protect and sustain its forests.

Impact on Forest Conservation:

• Swift Dispute Resolution: The National Green Tribunal (NGT) provides a dedicated forum for addressing environmental and forest-related disputes, ensuring faster resolution of cases. This expedites actions against illegal logging, deforestation, and other environmental violations.

• Regulation and Enforcement: The NGT plays a crucial role in enforcing environmental laws and regulations related to forest conservation. It imposes penalties on violators and ensures compliance with forest protection measures.

• Biodiversity Protection: The NGT actively supports the preservation of biodiversity in forests. It addresses issues such as the encroachment of protected forest areas, ensuring their protection and biodiversity conservation.

• Public Participation: The NGT encourages public participation in environmental matters, including forest conservation. It allows citizens to file petitions and be involved in cases related to the protection of forests and wildlife.

Example: In the case of T.N. Godavarman Thirumulkpad vs. Union of India, the NGT played a pivotal role in safeguarding the forests of the Nilgiris, setting a significant precedent for forest conservation in India.

Conclusion: 
The National Green Tribunal Act, 2010, has had a positive impact on forest conservation in India. It has expedited the resolution of environmental disputes, enhanced regulation and enforcement, and promoted biodiversity protection, ensuring the sustainable preservation of India's precious forest resources.

Q2:
(a) Examine the environmental challenges caused by the solid waste in metropolitan regions of India and discuss the efforts to overcome it.
Ans:
Introduction:
Metropolitan regions in India face significant environmental challenges due to the generation and mismanagement of solid waste. These challenges have far-reaching consequences for public health and the environment.

Environmental Challenges:

• Waste Generation: The rapid urbanization and population growth in metropolitan areas lead to a substantial increase in solid waste generation, including non-biodegradable plastics and electronic waste.

• Health Hazards: Improper disposal and uncontrolled dumping of waste pose severe health risks to the population. Open dumping sites become breeding grounds for diseases and attract scavenging animals.

• Water and Soil Pollution: Leachate from landfills can contaminate groundwater and nearby water bodies, affecting water quality. The disposal of electronic waste often leads to soil pollution due to heavy metals and hazardous materials.

Efforts to Overcome:

• Waste Segregation: Implementing waste segregation at the source encourages the separation of biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste, making recycling and composting more effective.

• Waste-to-Energy Plants: Setting up waste-to-energy plants can help convert non-recyclable waste into energy, reducing the burden on landfills and minimizing environmental pollution.

• Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR): EPR policies hold manufacturers responsible for managing the waste generated by their products. This encourages sustainable product design and recycling.

• Municipal Solid Waste Rules: The government has laid out rules and guidelines to improve solid waste management, such as the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016, which focus on waste segregation, disposal, and the promotion of 3R (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle).

Example: The Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission) launched in 2014 is a significant government initiative to promote waste management and sanitation, with a focus on metropolitan areas.

Conclusion: 
Solid waste management is a critical issue in metropolitan regions of India. Efforts to overcome these challenges include waste segregation, waste-to-energy initiatives, and the enforcement of policies and rules to ensure proper disposal and recycling.

(b) Why are millets considered as ‘nutri-cereals’ and climate-resilient? Discuss the constraints and opportunities of millet cultivation in India.
Ans: 
Introduction: 
Millets, often referred to as 'nutri-cereals,' are gaining recognition for their nutritional value and climate-resilient nature. They offer unique opportunities for sustainable agriculture in India.

Nutritional Value and Climate Resilience:

• Diverse Nutrients: Millets are packed with essential nutrients like protein, dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are particularly rich in iron, calcium, and antioxidants, making them highly nutritious.

• Low Water Requirement: Millets are drought-tolerant and require significantly less water than traditional cereals like rice and wheat, making them suitable for regions with erratic rainfall.

• Pest Resistance: Millets are naturally pest-resistant, reducing the need for chemical pesticides and lowering the environmental impact.

Constraints and Opportunities:

• Lack of Awareness: Despite their nutritional benefits, millets have faced limited promotion and awareness, leading to lower demand.

• Processing and Marketing: Challenges in processing and marketing millets need to be addressed to make them more accessible and appealing to consumers.

• Government Initiatives: The Indian government's initiatives like the National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture and the Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana aim to promote millet cultivation and provide opportunities for farmers to diversify their crops.

• Community Engagement: Encouraging farmers to grow millets and promoting traditional recipes and millet-based products can create opportunities for improved nutrition and economic livelihoods.

Example: The "Millet Village" concept in Andhra Pradesh, which promotes millet cultivation and offers training to farmers, has led to increased millet production and awareness.

Conclusion: 
Millets are 'nutri-cereals' due to their nutritional richness and are climate-resilient, making them a sustainable choice for Indian agriculture. While constraints exist, government initiatives and community engagement provide opportunities for millet cultivation and promotion.

(c) Examine the geostrategic significance of Indian islands.
Ans:
Introduction:
Indian islands hold notable geostrategic significance, both in terms of national security and economic interests. They are crucial assets in the maritime domain.

Geostrategic Significance:

• Security and Defense: India's islands, such as the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, serve as a strategic defense outpost in the Indian Ocean region. They enhance India's maritime security and surveillance capabilities.

• Maritime Trade Routes: The proximity of Indian islands to major international maritime trade routes, including the Strait of Malacca, offers opportunities for economic and trade partnerships. These islands can act as trade hubs.

• Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ): Indian islands extend India's Exclusive Economic Zones, providing access to valuable marine resources like fisheries, minerals, and oil and gas reserves. This enhances India's economic interests.

• Diplomatic Leverage: Indian islands can be used as diplomatic leverage in regional and international relations, strengthening India's position as a maritime power.

Challenges:

• Infrastructure Development: Developing the necessary infrastructure on these islands for security and economic purposes is a significant challenge, considering their remote locations and ecological sensitivity.

• Environmental Conservation: Balancing geostrategic interests with environmental conservation is essential, as the fragile ecosystems on these islands are at risk.

• Coastal Vulnerability: Many Indian islands are susceptible to sea-level rise and natural disasters, which poses a challenge to their long-term geostrategic significance.

Example: The Andaman and Nicobar Islands have witnessed increased military infrastructure development to enhance their security and surveillance capabilities, showcasing their geostrategic importance.

Conclusion: 
Indian islands play a vital role in bolstering India's maritime security, economic interests, and diplomatic standing. While challenges exist, proper management and sustainable development of these islands are essential to maintain their geostrategic significance.

Q3:
(a) Indian Pharma Industry has to move from ‘volume’ to Value’ leadership to capture global market. Discuss.
Ans: 
Introduction:
The Indian pharmaceutical industry has a substantial presence in the global market, primarily through the production of generic medicines. However, transitioning from a 'volume' to 'value' leadership is essential for sustainable growth and global competitiveness.

Challenges with Volume-Based Leadership:

• Price-Driven Competition: Relying solely on volume encourages price competition, leading to thin profit margins.

• Dependency on Generics: The industry's heavy reliance on generic drugs makes it vulnerable to patent expirations and intensifying competition.

• Quality Concerns: Mass production can sometimes compromise product quality, eroding trust in Indian pharmaceuticals.

Moving towards 'Value' Leadership:

• Research and Development (R&D): Investment in R&D to create innovative, patented medicines can add substantial value to the industry.

• Quality Assurance: Maintaining high-quality standards and compliance with international regulations is vital to ensure the safety and effectiveness of pharmaceutical products.

• Specialized Medicines: Expanding product portfolios to include specialized medicines, biopharmaceuticals, and niche therapeutic areas diversifies the industry's offerings.

Example: Indian pharmaceutical companies like Sun Pharma and Biocon have ventured into biopharmaceuticals, demonstrating a shift towards 'value' leadership by focusing on specialized and innovative drugs.
Conclusion: 
For the Indian pharmaceutical industry to capture a more significant share of the global market, it must evolve from a 'volume' to 'value' leadership model, emphasizing innovation, quality, and specialized medicines to meet the evolving needs of global consumers.

(b) Discuss the problems of floods and their management with special reference to Indo-Gangetic Plain.
Ans:
Introduction:
The Indo-Gangetic Plain is highly prone to floods, resulting in significant challenges for the region. Effective flood management is essential to mitigate these problems.

Flood Problems:

• Loss of Lives and Property: Flooding leads to loss of life, property damage, and the displacement of communities.

• Agricultural Loss: Extensive agricultural lands get submerged during floods, causing crop damage and food shortages.

• Water Pollution: Floodwaters often carry pollutants, contaminating water sources and causing health issues.

Flood Management:

• Flood Forecasting and Warning Systems: Implement advanced technology for accurate flood forecasting, enabling timely warnings to residents.

• Floodplain Zoning: Restrict construction in flood-prone areas and promote sustainable land use practices to reduce vulnerability.

• Embankments and Reservoirs: Construct embankments and reservoirs to control and manage floodwaters.

• Afforestation: Promote tree planting to reduce soil erosion and increase water retention in the soil.

Example: The Kosi River embankment in Bihar, known as the "Sorrow of Bihar," has seen significant investments to mitigate flooding impacts.

Conclusion: 
Flood management in the Indo-Gangetic Plain is essential to safeguard lives, property, and the environment. Implementing advanced technologies, land-use regulations, and water management strategies are vital for effective flood management.

(c) Critically examine the role of petroleum energy resources on International Geopolitics with special reference to India.
Ans:
Introduction: 
Petroleum energy resources play a crucial role in international geopolitics and have a significant impact on countries like India, both as energy consumers and regional players.

Geopolitical Significance:

• Energy Security: Access to stable and affordable petroleum resources is essential for energy security, fueling economic growth and development. India's growing energy demands make it a key player in global energy geopolitics.

• Supplier Relationships: Geopolitical relations with major petroleum suppliers, such as the Middle East and Central Asia, are crucial for India. Diplomatic ties and partnerships with oil-producing countries are vital for securing a consistent supply of crude oil.

• Global Energy Prices: Changes in global energy prices and supply disruptions impact India's economy and can lead to inflation and fiscal deficits.

Geopolitical Challenges and Opportunities:

• Choke Points: India must navigate strategically vital choke points like the Strait of Hormuz and the Malacca Strait to secure its energy supplies. These maritime routes are points of geopolitical tension.

• Diversification: To reduce its dependence on a few energy suppliers, India is diversifying its energy sources by investing in renewable energy and exploring oil and gas reserves domestically.

Example: India's relationship with Iran is a significant geopolitical aspect in securing oil supplies and has been influenced by international sanctions and diplomatic ties.

Conclusion: 
The geopolitics of petroleum resources is a critical concern for India's energy security and economic stability. Diversification, strategic partnerships, and domestic exploration are key strategies to navigate the complex global energy landscape.

Q4:
(a) With falling fertility rate and rising median age, how can India translate demographic dividend to economic dividend?
Ans: 
Introduction:
India's demographic dividend, characterized by a large working-age population, presents both opportunities and challenges. To harness this dividend and convert it into an economic one, India needs targeted strategies.

Challenges:

• Unemployment: High youth unemployment rates indicate that the demographic dividend isn't being fully realized.

• Skills Mismatch: Many job seekers lack the necessary skills for the modern job market.

• Inclusive Growth: The benefits of demographic dividend should reach all sections of society to ensure inclusive growth.

Strategies to Convert Demographic Dividend into Economic Dividend:

• Education and Skills Development: Invest in education and vocational training programs to equip the youth with the skills demanded by the job market.

• Entrepreneurship: Encourage entrepreneurship and start-ups to create more job opportunities.

• Labor Market Reforms: Ensure flexibility in labor markets to make hiring easier, fostering job creation.

• Inclusive Growth: Address inequality and provide equal opportunities for all segments of the population.

Example: 
The 'Skill India' initiative focuses on providing market-relevant skills to the youth to enhance employability and contribute to the nation's economic growth.

Conclusion: 
Harnessing India's demographic dividend to an economic dividend requires strategic investments in education, skills development, and entrepreneurship, along with policies that promote inclusive growth.

(b) Poor quality of urban planning in India is a huge constraint in realizing the true economic potentials of urbanization. Critically examine.
Ans: 
Introduction:
Urbanization is a significant driver of economic growth, but poor urban planning in India has hindered its full potential.

Challenges:

• Infrastructure Deficit: Inadequate and poorly maintained infrastructure, including transportation and sanitation, affects productivity.

• Slums and Congestion: Rapid urbanization has led to slum proliferation and traffic congestion, hampering economic activities.

• Environmental Degradation: Poor planning can lead to environmental degradation, negatively impacting health and economic productivity.

Critically Examine:

• Inefficient Land Use: In many cities, valuable land is underutilized due to poor zoning and land-use policies.

• Lack of Proper Master Plans: Many cities lack comprehensive master plans, leading to haphazard development.

• Inadequate Investment: Inadequate investment in urban infrastructure and services hinders economic growth.

Example: Mumbai's rapid and unplanned growth has resulted in slums and congestion, affecting the city's economic potential.

Conclusion: 
India's urbanization potential remains underutilized due to poor urban planning. Reforming planning processes, investing in infrastructure, and promoting sustainable urbanization are essential for realizing the economic potential of cities.

(c) Highlight the salient features of India’s trade policy. Discuss the status of India’s balance of trade with China.
Ans:
Introduction:
India's trade policy plays a crucial role in shaping its trade relations. The status of India's balance of trade with China has garnered significant attention.

Salient Features of India's Trade Policy:

• Liberalization: India has adopted a liberal trade policy, reducing trade barriers and promoting globalization.

• Export Promotion: Schemes like 'Make in India' aim to boost exports and reduce trade deficits.

• Bilateral and Regional Agreements: India has engaged in regional trade agreements, such as ASEAN and BIMSTEC, to expand its market access.

Status of India's Balance of Trade with China:

• Trade Deficit: India has a persistent trade deficit with China, primarily due to the import of electronics, machinery, and chemical products.

• Efforts to Reduce Deficit: India has taken measures like imposing tariffs and promoting domestic manufacturing to narrow the trade gap.

• Bilateral Trade Tensions: Geopolitical issues have contributed to trade tensions between India and China.

Example: The recent border conflict between India and China has led to calls for boycotts of Chinese goods, impacting bilateral trade relations.

Conclusion:
India's trade policy aims to enhance exports and reduce trade deficits. While it has taken steps to address the trade imbalance with China, resolving underlying issues is necessary to ensure balanced and sustainable trade relations.