GS Paper - III Model Answers (2023) - 1 | UPSC Mains Answer Writing: Practice PDF Download

Q1: Faster economic growth requires increased share of the manufacturing sector in GDP, particularly of MSMEs. Comment on the present policies of the Government in this regard.   (150 words, 10 marks) 
Ans:

Introduction
The contribution of the manufacturing sector to India's GDP (around 16-17%) and employment (approximately 12%) has remained unchanged since the 1991 economic reforms. Small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) alone account for 45% of the manufacturing output. Therefore, enhancing the manufacturing sector's share leads to the development of interrelated industries, stimulates job creation, and aligns with the goal of achieving a $5 trillion economy.

Government Policies:

• Incentives to MSMEs in form of cheaper credit, Public Procurement policy, exemption from labour laws etc. to nourish small sized firms into Giants has led to "Problem of Missing Middle".
  
• Recent Change in Definition of MSMEs to include composite criteria of investment and turnover to prevent Dwarf Firms. However, recommendations of U.K Sinha Committee such as National Council for MSME Facilitation etc. needs implementation.
• Incentives through PLI Scheme boosts manufacturing as evident in India becoming second largest manufacturer of mobiles. However, structural problems such as land acquisition, skill sets, labour reforms etc. needs to be addressed, 
• SEZs have been able to create around 2.5 million jobs and account for 26% exports from India. However, unlike their counterparts in China, SEZs in India have failed (Baba Kalyani Committee)
• Consolidation of multiple laws into 4 separate codes
• Increase in customs duty on the finished products promotes domestic manufacturing. However, it may lead to inward-oriented and protectionist policies.
•  Other initiatives include Signing of FTAs, Make in India and Assemble in India, "Vocal for Local" etc.

Conclusion
Furthermore, it's essential to acknowledge that no nation can achieve developed status without undergoing industrialization. Thus, it is imperative to consider the recommendations put forth by committees like the Baba Kalyani Committee on Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and the UK Sinha Committee on Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), while also enhancing India's involvement in Global Value Chains.

Q2: What is the status of digitalization in the Indian economy? Examine the problems faced in this regard and suggest improvements.   (150 words, 10 marks)
Ans:

Introduction
The government has directed its efforts towards advancing the digitalization of the Indian economy to promote rapid socio-economic growth. This commitment is exemplified through the initiation of the Digital India program, aimed at expediting the digital transformation of India.

Status of digitalisation:

• Access to cheap high speed internet services (4G) through mobile telephony. (Over 84 crores)
• Aadhar forms the basis unique identity for citizens (over 99% people have)
• Shareable private space on a public cloud (Citizens can digitally store their documents, certificates etc.)
• Emergence of Digital Public Infrastructure which enabled access to government services digitally o UPI platform for digitally and safe payments among different platforms.
  • OCEN Platform and Account Aggregators platform for easier credit disbursement to citizens and businesses.
  • GST platform for digital assessment and filing of tax returns.
  • UMANG Platform enables citizens to access e-government services of both Central and State governments.
  • ONDC platform has been initiated for democratisation of e-commerce sector. o OpenForge platform for open collaborative software development.

Concerns with India's digitalisation

• Digital divide to the detriment of rural areas, vulnerable language and less educated. 
• Lack of implementation of digital data protection law in India. 
• Concerns with cyber security and cyber frauds 
• Lack of access to broadband
• Lack of domestic semiconductor industry in India and dependence on imports.

Suggestions for boosting India’s digitalisation 

• Invest in expanding digital infrastructure across the country. 
• Implement nationwide digital literacy programs. 
• Strengthen cybersecurity measures and awareness campaigns to protect users from online threats. 
• Encourage the growth of start-ups. 
• Promote digital payment solutions tailored to diverse user groups. 
• Collaborate with private sector companies to drive digitalization initiatives

Q3: How does e-Technology help farmers in production and marketing of agricultural produce? Explain it. (150 words, 10 marks)
Ans:

Introduction
As per the findings of the Dalwai Panel, leveraging E-Technologies like ICT, satellites, AI, IoT, and more holds the potential to mitigate current challenges, including limited access to agricultural resources, reduced productivity, and lower income for farmers, ultimately leading to the goal of doubling their earnings.

Role of E-Technology in production:

• Location Specific Information on what crop to grow, what variety of seed to buy, when to sow, and what best practices to adopt. Ex: Kisan Suvidha App
• Facilitate physical delivery of inputs such as seeds, fertilizers etc. through online platforms. Ex: BharatRoshan
• Increased Mechanization through Custom hiring centres and Uber-like apps such as Goldfarm
• Facilitate easier access to Loans through Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme.  Ex: Karnataka's Bhoomi Project
• Optimally utilize resources such as water and fertilizers through AI, IoT etc. Ex: FASAL
• Enhanced coverage and effectiveness of Government's schemes Ex: DBT for PM KISAN, Karnataka's FRUITS Platform

Role of E-Technology in marketing:

• Efficient Price Discovery through E-NAM.
• Elimination of middlemen through initiatives such as Ninjacart and ITC's e-choupal.
• Facilitate Inverse fork-to-farm strategy to enable farmers to grow crops according to their demand Ex: AGMARKNET.

Conclusion
Looking ahead, it is essential to tackle existing issues such as internet accessibility and affordability through the proposed Agri stack, thereby facilitating the industrialization of agriculture.

Q4: State the objectives and measures of land reforms in India. Discuss how land ceiling policy on landholding can be considered as an effective reform under economic criteria. (150 words, 10 marks)
Ans:
Introduction

Land reform pertains to an institutional action aimed at reshaping the current arrangements regarding land ownership, tenancy, leasing, and land management. These reforms were introduced after India gained independence with the objective of eliminating the exploitative, feudalistic aspects of the agrarian system.

Measures of Land Reforms:

• Abolition of Intermediaries and bringing the cultivators in direct contact with the Government.
• Tenancy reforms: (a) Security of tenure for the tenants (b) Regulation of Rent (c) grant of ownership rights to certain types of tenants.
• Reorganisation of Agriculture; (a) Imposition of ceiling on land holdings (b) Acquisition of surplus land and its distribution among the small farmers and landless workers (c) Consolidation of land holdings through promotion of cooperative farming. Ex: Kudumbashree in Kerala
• Land Records modernisation to facilitate access to credit Ex: Karnataka's Bhoomi Project

Land ceiling policy as an effective reform under economic criteria:

• Prevent concentration of wealth and ensure distributive justice in line with Article 39(b) and 39 (c) 
• Higher Efficiency of Small Farms as they adopt efficient land use practices.
• Promote Agricultural diversification as small farmers tend to engage in livestock sector to diversify the risk.
• Promotion of jobs as small farms provide more employment opportunities.
• Higher access to credit as land ownership encourages Banks to give loans to poor people.
• Enhance overall demand and promote higher GDP by transferring the incomes of few to many.

Conclusion
Nevertheless, the enforcement of land ceiling laws has proven to be effective in only a handful of states, such as West Bengal (Operation Barga) and Kerala. As highlighted by the Committee on Unfinished Task on Land Reforms, it is imperative for states to reconsider these ceiling laws and rectify any existing shortcomings.

Q5: Introduce the concept of Artificial Intelligence (AI). How does Al help clinical diagnosis? Do you perceive any threat to privacy of the individual in the use of Al in healthcare? (150 words, 10 marks)
Ans:

Introduction
AI involves the replication of human intelligence in machines and encompasses machine learning, natural language processing, and computer vision. It empowers machines to acquire knowledge, engage in logical reasoning, tackle complex issues, and arrive at decisions. The term "AI" was coined by John McCarthy.

AI in Clinical Diagnosis:

• Enhanced Accuracy: AI, like IBM's Watson, improves disease detection accuracy, Ex. diagnosing cancer from medical images.
• Efficiency: AI-driven chatbots optimise appointment scheduling, enhancing healthcare operations.
• Early detection: NITI Aayog is helping to roll out AI-based handheld device for early detection of Diabetic Retinopathy.
• Predictive Analytics: ML predicts outbreaks (E.g., COVID-19) for resource-allocation and containment strategies.

Privacy Concerns with AI in Healthcare:

• Identity theft: Misuse or unauthorised access to sensitive patient data can lead to identity theft or discrimination.
• Data-security: Patients' data is vulnerable to cybersecurity threats.
• Commercialisation: Personal Medical data can be commercialised without obtaining prior consent of patients.
• Potential misuse by Insurance companies to deny coverage or charge higher-premium if AI tools detect disease vulnerability.

Conclusion
In the context of AI in healthcare and the associated privacy concerns, comprehensive solutions require strengthened regulations, transparent AI practices, educational initiatives for both professionals and the public, ethical development of AI, and collaborative endeavors involving healthcare entities, AI developers, and regulatory bodies to strike a balance between safeguarding privacy and advancing AI technology.

Q6: Discuss several ways in which microorganisms can help in meeting the current fuel shortage. (150 words, 10 marks) 
Ans:

Introduction
Microorganisms, comprising bacteria, viruses, fungi, and algae, present novel approaches to address the ongoing fuel scarcity issue.

Applications of micro-organisms in fulfilling energy needs:

• Biofuels: Engineered microorganisms produce renewable biofuels, Ex., biodiesel. India's CSIR and IIT developed micro-algae strains for biodiesel.
• Biogas: Anaerobic bacteria create methane-rich biogas, used for electricity and clean cooking. India's NBMMP (National Biogas and Manure Management Program) promotes this from organic waste.
• Hydrogen: Specific microorganisms produce hydrogen as clean energy source.
• Enhanced Oil Recovery: Microbes stimulate oil-extraction from depleted wells.
• Waste-to-Energy: Microbes convert organic waste into biofuels, exemplified by Pune Municipal Corporation's biogas plant.
• Carbon Capture: Microbes capture and convert CO2 into biofuels, aiding carbon-sequestration.
• Biodegradable Plastics: Microbes create eco-friendly biodegradable plastics.

Challenges involved:

• Environmental Impact: To ensure that it does not create unintended Ecological impact.
• Technological Immaturity: Many processes are still in R&D phases.
• Contamination Risk: Microbial contamination can disrupt production.
• Feedstock Availability: Competition for suitable substrates, like crops, can limit resources.
• Low Yield: Microbes often produce fuels in small quantities, necessitating yield improvements.
• Efficiency: Microbial conversion can be inefficient, demanding substantial resources.

Conclusion
Furthermore, in an effort to boost the role of biofuels, the government has revised the National Biofuel Policy of 2018 to expand the scope of feedstock for biofuel production and has expedited the target for achieving a 20% ethanol blend in petrol, moving it from 2030 to 2025.

Q7: Dam failures are always catastrophic, especially on the downstream side, resulting in a colossal loss of life and property. Analyze the various causes of dam failures. Give two examples of large dam failures. (150 words, 10 marks)
Ans:

Introduction
The retention of water in reservoirs disrupts the consistent flow of water in downstream areas, causing changes in sediment accumulation and impacting the local ecology. The abrupt release of water can also result in flooding and landslides in these regions.

Causes of Dam Failures

1. Natural causes:
   • Upstream floods: Intense rainfall, glacial floods, snow melting in upstream areas increase pressure on the reservoirs. Ex. Rishi Ganga project failure.
   • Seismic activities: induce ground shaking and weaken the dam's foundation. Ex. Tehri dam is located above a seismic fault.
   • Seepage and land slumping: can further reduce the shearing resistance of the underlying rocks.
   • Erosion of embankment and abutments compromise on structural stability.
2. Anthropogenic causes:
   • Inadequate design: Miscalculations regarding possible seepage, safety factor etc while designing reduce structural resistance.
   • Weak material: Substandard material will not hold the high pressures of reservoir.
   • Poor management: of reservoir operations, lack of inspection etc further increase dam's vulnerability. Ex. Overfilling of Pong dam.
   • Mining and quarrying: in nearby areas weaken the rock bases.
   • Age deterioration reduces functional capability. Ex, Mullaperiyar dam has outlived its life.
   • War: Countries can bomb dams during wars or terrorism leading to loss of life and property. Ex. Kakhova Dam in Ukraine

Examples of Dam Failures

1. Rishi Ganga Dam destroyed by Glacial Avalanche in Uttarakhand, India.
2. Machchuu dam failure in 1979 in Morbi, Gujarat leading to death of about 5,000 people.

Conclusion
In light of this situation, the Dam Safety Act of 2021, which addresses the monitoring, inspection, operation, and upkeep of dams, represents a positive step in the right direction.

Q8: What is oil pollution? What are its impacts on the marine ecosystem? In what way is oil pollution particularly harmful for a country like India? (150 words, 10 marks)
Ans:

Introduction
Oil pollution occurs when liquid petroleum hydrocarbons are discharged into the natural environment. Oil spills can result from leaks originating from tankers, offshore platforms, drilling rigs, wells, or accidental releases of refined petroleum products, as exemplified by incidents off the coasts of Chennai, Sri Lanka, Mauritius, and other places.

Impacts oil pollution on Marine ecosystem:

1. On Ocean characteristics:
   • Reduces the amount of dissolved oxygen in water.
   • Reduces sunlight penetration reducing bio-productivity.
2. On Marine life:
   • Chokes the respiratory system of marine animals
   • Reduces their insulating ability making them more vulnerable to temperature fluctuations.
   • Impair a bird's ability to fly, irritating the digestive tract, altering liver function, and causing kidney damage.
3. Habitat destruction:
   • Destroys important coastal habitats such as mangroves, estuaries and salt marshes and coral reefs. Ex. Sundarbans threatened by multiple oil spills over years.
4. Harmful impacts on India:
   • Vast coastline of India and huge dependence on the imported crude oil make it particularly vulnerable.
   • Diverse ecosystems like Sundarbans, Bhitarkanika, Lakshadweep Corals, Kerala backwaters face huge threats in terms of biodiversity loss.
   • Coastal communities dependent on marine fisheries may lose their livelihood.
   • High vulnerability to cyclones, coastal flooding etc further make the cleaning process difficult.

Conclusion
To address this issue effectively, India must establish strong preventive measures, develop comprehensive emergency response plans, and implement stringent regulations to minimize the associated risks. Additionally, various technological approaches, including magnetic soap, autonomous robots, highly absorbent sponges, and the use of human hair waste, can be employed for post-oil spill mitigation.

Q9: Winning of Hearts and Minds' in terrorism-affected areas is an essential step in restoring the trust of the population. Discuss the measures adopted by the Government in this respect as part of the conflict resolution in Jammu and Kashmir. (150 words,10 marks)
Ans:

Introduction
Indian strategic thinkers emphasize that, in addition to addressing the cross-border provocation of terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir by Pakistan, resolving the issues related to terrorism and fostering a sense of emotional inclusion within India's mainstream can be achieved by establishing a deep emotional connection with the people of Kashmir. This approach is rooted in the principles of promoting humanity (Insaniyat), democracy (Jamhuriat), and the unique culture of Kashmir (Kashmiriyat). These principles underpin the current government's efforts to enhance the integration of Jammu and Kashmir into the broader Indian framework, particularly following the abrogation of Article 370.

Steps taken to win the hearts and minds of people of Kashmir are:

• Abrogation of Article 370 which formed the basis of a separatist Kashmiri identity and alienation and complete integration into India's constitutional mainstream.
• Application of all laws of India such as Right to Information Act, Reservation for minorities and other groups to empower citizens of Kashmir.
• Introduction of Three-tier Panchayat system to enable public participation in self-governance at local levels.
• Economic empowerment:
  • PM's Development Package of 2015 as a mega development and reconstruction package of over Rs 80,000; New central sector scheme of around Rs 28,000 crores for industrial development of Kashmir. Infrastructure boost with construction of tunnels, highways and railways in Kashmir to boost economic development.
  • Vibrant Village scheme to boost the development of border villages along with Pakistan.
  • Application of all central sector schemes such as One Nation One Ration card, PM Kisan Yojana etc. to help people of Kashmir.
  • Institutes and scholarships to Kashmiri students for civil services. o Promotion of tourism in Kashmir valley to enable local livelihood. 

Emotional connect:

• Opening of cinema halls in Kashmir valley to let people lead a normal life.
• Carrying out Bharat Darshan/Watan Ko Jano tours for Kashmiri youth and activities by CAPF such as sports, cultural activities, medical camps, etc.
• Promotion and engagement with educated youth, civil society groups and political parties in Kashmir. 
• Promotion of Sufi version of Kashmir.
• Frequent visits by union ministers and important functionaries. 
• Hosting of G20 events in Kashmir.

Conclusion
To further promote peace in Jammu and Kashmir, the government should adopt a dual-track strategy. This strategy involves strengthening security measures with a focus on preventing border incursions and addressing terrorist activities in the short term. However, in the long term, a solution lies in addressing the sense of alienation among the population of Kashmir by ensuring that they feel secure and embraced within a secular India. Furthermore, advancing the democratic process in Kashmir through the conduct of elections plays a pivotal role in achieving these objectives.

Q10: The use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) by our adversaries across the borders. to ferry arms / ammunitions, drugs, etc., is a serious threat to the internal security. Comment on the measures being taken to tackle this threat. (150 words, 10 marks)
Ans:

Introduction
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) have evolved into a valuable asset for both military forces and non-state entities, thanks to their ability to offer immediate intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance. These drones have been employed by unauthorized individuals for purposes such as transporting illegal substances and weapons, monitoring essential infrastructure, and even launching attacks on vital defense installations.

To address the imminent threat from UAVs, various measures have been implemented:

• Drone rules, 2021 have been framed by Ministry of Civil Aviation demarcating who can operate drones and no-fly zones for drones.
• Advanced Surveillance and Detection Technology by deploying state-of-the-art surveillance technology, including radar systems, thermal imaging, and acoustic sensors, along borders to detect UAV intrusions. E.g., BSF has utilized ground-based radar systems for drone detection.
• Collaboration among various law enforcement agencies, such as the BSF, Indian Army, and local police, enhances the sharing of intelligence and resources for countering UAV threats.
• India has collaborated with neighbouring countries to address cross-border drone threats collectively. E.g., India bought SMASH 2000 anti-drone system from Israel.
• With the launch of Digital Sky Platform drone operators are required to obtain necessary permissions and approvals, which helps in ensuring that only authorized drones are allowed to operate, reducing the risk of illicit drone activities.
• Drone Detect, Deter and Destroy system (D4S) is the first indigenously developed anti-drone system by DRDO which has the capability to detect rogue drones and instantly jam micro drones.

Conclusion
India's comprehensive strategy for protecting its internal security is based on a blend of technology, legal structures, interagency coordination, public involvement, and international collaboration.