UPSC Mains General Studies (Paper 3) - Mock Test 2 [Solutions] | UPSC Mains Mock Test Series 2025 PDF Download

Q1. Comment on the statement: “The National Logistics Policy 2022 is a catalyst for India’s economic competitiveness.” (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer:

Introduction
The National Logistics Policy (NLP) 2022 aims to make India’s logistics sector efficient, reducing costs and boosting economic competitiveness. It supports India’s vision of becoming a $5 trillion economy by 2027 through streamlined transport and trade systems.

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Contributions to Economic Competitiveness:

• The NLP reduces logistics costs. It aims to lower costs from 14% to 8% of GDP, improving trade efficiency by 2025.
• It enhances infrastructure. Multi-modal transport, like freight corridors, speeds up goods movement, as seen in Gujarat in 2024.
• The policy promotes digital systems. The Unified Logistics Interface Platform (ULIP) cuts delays by sharing real-time data.
  Challenges:
• Implementation faces delays. Slow coordination among states hinders progress in rural areas.
• Infrastructure gaps remain. Poor last-mile connectivity limits the policy’s impact.

Conclusion
The NLP 2022 drives India’s economic competitiveness by cutting costs and improving infrastructure. Faster implementation and better rural connectivity are essential for its full success.

Q2. How does the PM-KISAN scheme support small and marginal farmers? Evaluate its impact on rural income. (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer:

Introduction
The PM-KISAN scheme, launched in 2019, provides ₹6,000 yearly to small and marginal farmers to meet their financial needs. It aims to boost rural income and support agricultural growth.

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Support for Farmers:

• The scheme gives direct income support. It transfers ₹6,000 in three instalments to 12 crore farmers, easing costs for seeds and fertilizers.
• It ensures financial inclusion. Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) promotes transparency, as seen in 2024 disbursals.
• The scheme aids farm investments. Farmers use funds to buy better inputs, improving crop yields.
  Impact on Rural Income:
• PM-KISAN increases household income. It raised rural incomes by 10% in 2024, per government surveys.
• It reduces debt dependence. Farmers rely less on moneylenders for loans.
• Coverage is incomplete. Tenant farmers and landless laborers often miss out.

Conclusion
PM-KISAN supports farmers with income and investments, boosting rural livelihoods. Expanding coverage and ensuring timely payments will maximize its impact.

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

Answer:

Introduction
e-Technology, including mobile apps and digital platforms, transforms Indian agriculture by helping farmers improve production and market their produce. It supports the goal of doubling farmers’ income by 2025.

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Role in Production:

• e-Technology provides real-time information. Apps like Kisan Suvidha offer weather and soil data, aiding crop planning in 2024.
• It supports precision farming. IoT tools track soil moisture, optimizing water use for higher yields.
• Farmers get expert advice. Digital platforms connect farmers to scientists for pest control guidance.
  Role in Marketing:
• e-Technology improves market access. e-NAM enabled 1.8 crore farmers to sell produce transparently in 2025.
• It cuts out middlemen. Apps like AgriBazaar allow direct sales, increasing profits.
  Challenges:
• Digital skills are limited. Many farmers struggle to use technology.
• Rural connectivity is weak. Poor internet access limits adoption.

Conclusion
e-Technology enhances farming and marketing for farmers. Improving digital skills and rural internet will ensure wider benefits for all.

Q4. What is the role of blockchain technology in enhancing supply chain transparency in India’s food processing industry? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer:

Introduction
Blockchain technology, a secure digital ledger, improves transparency in India’s food processing industry by tracking products from farm to consumer. It builds trust and ensures quality in supply chains.

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Role of Blockchain in Transparency:

• Blockchain ensures traceable supply chains. It records every step, like sourcing wheat for biscuits, as seen in pilot projects in 2024.
• It prevents fraud. Immutable records stop fake labeling, ensuring authentic products reach consumers.
• Blockchain boosts consumer trust. QR codes on packaged foods allow buyers to verify origins, adopted by firms in 2025.
• It improves efficiency. Real-time data sharing reduces delays in supply chains.
  Challenges:
• High costs limit adoption. Small food processors struggle to afford blockchain systems.
• Technical skills are scarce. Lack of expertise hinders implementation in rural areas.

Suggested Diagram: Flowchart of blockchain in supply chain (farm → processing → retail → consumer).

Conclusion
Blockchain enhances transparency and trust in food processing. Lowering costs and improving skills will ensure its widespread use in India.

Q5. Critically examine the statement: “Quantum Computing will redefine India’s technological innovation by 2030.” (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer: 

Introduction
Quantum Computing, using quantum mechanics for faster processing, is expected to transform India’s technological innovation by 2030. Its potential is vast, but challenges question its immediate impact.

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Potential to Redefine Innovation:

• Quantum Computing solves complex problems. It can optimize logistics and drug discovery, as seen in 2024 research by IISc.
• It strengthens cybersecurity. Quantum encryption protects digital infrastructure, vital for India’s 2025 digital economy.
• It boosts AI development. Faster computations enhance AI applications in healthcare and agriculture.
  Challenges to Impact:
• Technology is immature. Quantum systems are still experimental, delaying practical use.
• Costs are high. Developing quantum infrastructure is expensive for India’s budget.
• Skilled experts are few. A shortage of quantum specialists limits progress, despite 2025 training initiatives.

Conclusion
Quantum Computing holds transformative potential for India’s innovation in AI and cybersecurity. However, overcoming technical, cost, and skill barriers is crucial to redefine technology by 2030.

Q6. Discuss the challenges of water scarcity in Indian agriculture. Suggest technological interventions to address it. (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer:

Introduction
Water scarcity severely impacts Indian agriculture, where 80% of water is used for irrigation. With declining groundwater and erratic monsoons, it threatens food security and farmers’ livelihoods in 2025.

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Challenges of Water Scarcity:

• Overexploitation depletes groundwater. Excessive irrigation has lowered water tables, affecting 60% of farms in Punjab in 2024.
• Erratic monsoons disrupt farming. Unpredictable rainfall reduces crop yields in rain-fed areas.
• Inefficient irrigation wastes water. Traditional flood irrigation methods lose 50% of water.

Technological Interventions:

• Drip irrigation saves water. It delivers water directly to roots, increasing efficiency, as seen in Gujarat in 2025.
• Smart sensors optimize usage. Soil moisture sensors guide precise irrigation, reducing waste.
• Rainwater harvesting boosts supply. Farm ponds store monsoon water for dry seasons.

Conclusion
Water scarcity challenges Indian agriculture through depletion and inefficiency. Adopting drip irrigation, sensors, and harvesting will ensure sustainable water use and food security.

Q7. What are the causes of frequent landslides in the Western Ghats? Suggest measures for their mitigation. (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer:

Introduction
Frequent landslides in the Western Ghats, a biodiversity hotspot, cause loss of life and damage, as seen in Kerala in 2024. They result from natural and human-induced factors.

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Causes of Landslides:

• Heavy rainfall triggers landslides. Monsoons weaken slopes, causing slips in 2024.
• Deforestation destabilizes slopes. Illegal logging and agriculture reduce soil stability.
• Unplanned construction increases risks. Roads and buildings on steep slopes aggravate instability.

Mitigation Measures:

• Afforestation strengthens slopes. Planting native trees stabilizes soil, as piloted in Maharashtra in 2025.
• Early warning systems save lives. Sensors and weather alerts predict landslides, reducing casualties.
• Regulate construction. Enforce eco-sensitive zoning to limit risky developments.

Suggested Diagram: Flowchart of landslide causes (rainfall → deforestation → construction) and mitigation steps.

Conclusion
Landslides in the Western Ghats stem from rainfall, deforestation, and construction. Mitigation through afforestation, warnings, and regulations will reduce risks and protect lives.

Q8. What were the factors responsible for the successful implementation of land reforms in some parts of the country? Elaborate. (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer:

Introduction
Land reforms, aimed at equitable land distribution, succeeded in states like West Bengal and Kerala, boosting agricultural productivity and social justice, evident in outcomes by 2025.

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Factors for Success:

• Strong political will drove reforms. Committed leadership in Kerala ensured effective implementation in the 1970s.
• Community participation increased success. Farmers’ cooperatives in West Bengal supported land redistribution.
• Clear legal frameworks aided enforcement. The Kerala Land Reforms Act, 1963, set clear tenancy rights.
• Awareness campaigns empowered farmers. Education drives informed tenants of their rights, boosting compliance.
  Challenges in Other Regions:
• Resistance from landlords stalled reforms. Large landowners opposed changes in Bihar.
• Weak records hindered progress. Poor land documentation delayed implementation.

Conclusion
Successful land reforms in Kerala and West Bengal resulted from political will, community support, and clear laws. Strengthening records and awareness can replicate success across India.

Q9. Comment on the statement: “AI-driven governance is essential for India’s economic growth.” (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer:

Introduction
AI-driven governance uses artificial intelligence to improve decision-making and service delivery, seen as vital for India’s economic growth by 2027. Its role needs careful evaluation.

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Benefits for Economic Growth:

• AI enhances efficiency. It streamlines e-governance, like Aadhaar-based services, saving time and costs in 2025.
• It improves policy-making. AI analytics predict economic trends, aiding planning, as seen in 2024 budget forecasts.
• AI boosts public services. Chatbots and smart systems improve access to schemes like PM-KISAN.
  Challenges:
• High costs limit adoption. AI infrastructure is expensive for smaller states.
• Data privacy is a concern. Cyberattacks in 2024 exposed sensitive citizen data.
• Skill shortages slow progress. Limited AI expertise delays implementation.

Conclusion
AI-driven governance is essential for India’s economic growth, improving efficiency and services. Addressing costs, privacy, and skill gaps will ensure its full potential is realized.

Q10. What are the environmental impacts of single-use plastics? Discuss the effectiveness of the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016. (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer:

Introduction
AI-driven governance uses artificial intelligence to improve decision-making and service delivery, seen as vital for India’s economic growth by 2027. Its role needs careful evaluation.

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Benefits for Economic Growth:

• AI enhances efficiency. It streamlines e-governance, like Aadhaar-based services, saving time and costs in 2025.
• It improves policy-making. AI analytics predict economic trends, aiding planning, as seen in 2024 budget forecasts.
• AI boosts public services. Chatbots and smart systems improve access to schemes like PM-KISAN.
  Challenges:
• High costs limit adoption. AI infrastructure is expensive for smaller states.
• Data privacy is a concern. Cyberattacks in 2024 exposed sensitive citizen data.
• Skill shortages slow progress. Limited AI expertise delays implementation.

Conclusion
AI-driven governance is essential for India’s economic growth, improving efficiency and services. Addressing costs, privacy, and skill gaps will ensure its full potential is realized.

Q11. Evaluate the statement: “The National Infrastructure Pipeline is critical for India’s post-COVID economic recovery.” (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Answer:

Introduction
The National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP), launched in 2019 with an outlay of ₹111 lakh crore for 2019–25, aims to bolster India’s infrastructure across sectors like energy, transport, and urban development. In the post-COVID economic recovery phase, the NIP is pivotal in addressing economic disruptions, unemployment, and supply chain challenges caused by the pandemic, fostering growth and resilience.

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Key contributions of NIP to post-COVID recovery:

• Economic Stimulus: NIP projects, such as Bharatmala and Sagarmala, stimulate demand through large-scale investments, creating jobs and boosting sectors like construction and manufacturing. For instance, highway projects in 2024 generated over 2 crore man-days of employment.
• Supply Chain Resilience: Investments in logistics infrastructure, like dedicated freight corridors, reduce bottlenecks, ensuring smoother supply chains disrupted during COVID.
• Private Sector Participation: NIP encourages public-private partnerships (PPPs), attracting ₹20 lakh crore in private investments by 2025, reducing fiscal burden and fostering innovation.
• Regional Development: Projects like the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor promote balanced regional growth, addressing rural-urban disparities exacerbated by the pandemic.

Challenges in implementation:

• Funding Constraints: Delays in securing funds and land acquisition issues hinder timely execution.
• Regulatory Hurdles: Complex clearance processes slow down project rollouts.

Conclusion
The NIP is critical for India’s post-COVID recovery by driving economic growth, job creation, and supply chain efficiency. However, addressing funding and regulatory challenges is essential to realize its full potential, ensuring sustainable and inclusive growth by 2025.

Q12. Discuss the potential of agritech startups in transforming Indian agriculture. What are the challenges in scaling their operations? (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Answer:

Introduction
Agritech startups in India, leveraging technologies like AI, IoT, and blockchain, are revolutionizing agriculture, which employs over 40% of the workforce. With investments reaching $1.2 billion in 2024, these startups hold immense potential to enhance productivity, sustainability, and farmer incomes.

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Potential of agritech startups:

• Precision Agriculture: Startups like CropIn use AI-based tools to provide real-time crop monitoring, improving yields by 20–30% through data-driven decisions.
• Market Access: Platforms like Ninjacart connect farmers directly to markets, reducing middlemen and increasing farmer incomes by up to 25%.
• Sustainable Practices: Companies like AgroStar promote eco-friendly inputs, reducing chemical use and aligning with India’s 2030 sustainability goals.
• Financial Inclusion: Fintech agritech startups like Samunnati offer microloans, enabling small farmers to access modern inputs.

Challenges in scaling operations:

• Digital Divide: Limited internet penetration in rural areas (only 35% coverage) restricts technology adoption.
• High Costs: Expensive technologies like drones or IoT sensors are unaffordable for small farmers.
• Fragmented Landholdings: Small farm sizes (average 1.1 hectares) limit economies of scale.
• Skill Gaps: Farmers’ lack of technical know-how hinders effective use of agritech solutions.

Conclusion
Agritech startups can transform Indian agriculture by boosting productivity and sustainability. However, overcoming challenges like digital access, affordability, and skill development through government support, subsidies, and training programs is crucial for scaling their impact and ensuring inclusive agricultural growth by 2030.

Q13. Critically examine the statement: “The National Hydrogen Mission will make India a global leader in Green Hydrogen production.” (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Answer:

Introduction
The National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM), approved in 2023 with ₹19,744 crore, aims to produce 5 MMT of green hydrogen annually by 2030, positioning India as a global leader. Green hydrogen, produced via renewable-powered electrolysis, is critical for decarbonizing industries and achieving net-zero by 2070.

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Factors supporting India’s leadership:

• Renewable Energy Potential: India’s 500 GW renewable energy target by 2030, with abundant solar and wind resources, supports low-cost green hydrogen production.
• Policy Support: NGHM’s incentives, like the SIGHT program, promote electrolyser manufacturing and reduce production costs to $1/kg by 2030.
• Global Demand: Rising demand for green hydrogen derivatives like ammonia offers export opportunities, with India’s market projected at $8 billion by 2030.
• Pilot Projects: Initiatives like GAIL’s 4.3 TPD plant in Madhya Pradesh (2024) demonstrate technical feasibility.

Challenges to leadership:

• High Costs: Green hydrogen production costs ($3.5–5.5/kg) are higher than grey hydrogen ($1.7–2.3/kg), limiting competitiveness.
• Infrastructure Gaps: Lack of pipelines, storage, and refueling stations hinders scalability.
• Global Competition: Countries like Australia and Germany are advancing rapidly, challenging India’s leadership.

Conclusion
The NGHM has strong potential to make India a green hydrogen leader, leveraging renewable energy and policy support. However, addressing cost, infrastructure, and global competition is critical to achieving this goal by 2030, ensuring sustainable energy leadership.

Q14. Do you think India will meet 50 percent of its energy needs from renewable energy by 2030? Justify your answer. How will the shift of subsidies from fossil fuels to renewables help achieve the above objective? Explain. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Answer:

Introduction
India aims to source 50% of its energy from renewables by 2030, aligning with its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement. With 150 GW of installed renewable capacity in 2025, the target of 500 GW is ambitious but feasible.

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Factors supporting the 50% target:

• Rapid Capacity Addition: India added 18 GW of renewable capacity in 2024, driven by solar and wind projects under schemes like PM Suryaghar Yojana.
• Policy Push: Initiatives like the Green Hydrogen Mission and waiver of transmission charges for renewables boost adoption.
• Global Support: Partnerships like the International Solar Alliance enhance technology transfer and funding.

Challenges to the target:

• Grid Infrastructure: Inadequate smart grids and storage systems limit renewable integration.
• Land and Funding: Large-scale projects face land acquisition delays and funding constraints.

Role of subsidy shift:

• Cost Reduction: Redirecting fossil fuel subsidies (₹1.5 lakh crore in 2024) to renewables lowers solar and wind tariffs, making them competitive.
• Incentivizing Adoption: Subsidies for battery storage and green hydrogen reduce dependency on coal.
• Disincentivizing Fossil Fuels: Higher costs for fossil fuels encourage industries to transition to renewables, aligning with net-zero goals.

Conclusion
India is on track to meet its 50% renewable energy target by 2030, driven by capacity growth and policies. Shifting subsidies from fossil fuels to renewables will accelerate this transition by reducing costs and promoting sustainable practices, ensuring energy security and climate resilience.

Q15. Analyze the impact of India’s semiconductor mission on its electronics manufacturing sector. How does it contribute to self-reliance? (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Answer:

Introduction
India’s Semiconductor Mission (ISM), launched in 2021 with ₹76,000 crore, aims to build a robust semiconductor ecosystem, reducing dependence on imports and boosting electronics manufacturing. With global demand for chips soaring, ISM is pivotal for self-reliance under Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

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Impact on electronics manufacturing:

• Production Capacity: ISM’s support for fab plants, like the Tata-Gujarat fab (2024), boosts domestic chip production, reducing import costs ($15 billion in 2024).
• Job Creation: The mission is projected to create 1.5 lakh skilled jobs by 2027, strengthening the electronics workforce.
• Supply Chain Resilience: Local chip production mitigates global supply chain disruptions, as seen during the 2021 chip shortage.
• Innovation Hub: R&D incentives foster indigenous chip designs, enhancing competitiveness in 5G and IoT devices.

Contribution to self-reliance:

• Reduced Import Dependency: India imports 95% of its semiconductors. ISM’s fab and ATMP units aim to cut this to 50% by 2030.
• Strategic Security: Domestic chips reduce reliance on geopolitically sensitive imports, ensuring supply for defense and critical infrastructure.
• Export Potential: ISM positions India as a chip exporter, with Micron’s Gujarat plant targeting global markets by 2025.

Challenges:

• High Capital Costs: Fab plants require $3–7 billion, straining finances.
• Skill Gaps: Shortage of semiconductor experts delays scaling.

Conclusion
The Semiconductor Mission strengthens India’s electronics manufacturing by enhancing production, jobs, and innovation. By reducing import reliance and boosting exports, it significantly contributes to self-reliance, though addressing capital and skill challenges is crucial for sustained impact.

Q16. What are the causes and consequences of desertification in India? Discuss the role of the National Action Plan to Combat Desertification. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Answer:

Introduction
Desertification, the degradation of land in arid and semi-arid regions, affects 32% of India’s land area, particularly in Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Punjab. Driven by natural and anthropogenic factors, it threatens agriculture, water security, and livelihoods, necessitating robust interventions like the National Action Plan to Combat Desertification (NAPCD).

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Causes of desertification:

• Overgrazing and Deforestation: Excessive livestock grazing and tree felling reduce vegetation cover, accelerating soil erosion.
• Unsustainable Agriculture: Overuse of chemical fertilizers and monocropping depletes soil fertility, as seen in Punjab’s farmlands.
• Climate Change: Erratic rainfall and rising temperatures exacerbate aridity, with 2024 recording severe droughts in western India.

Consequences of desertification:

• Agricultural Decline: Reduced soil fertility lowers crop yields, impacting 60% of rain-fed agriculture.
• Water Scarcity: Diminished groundwater recharge affects rural communities, with 25% of India’s villages facing water shortages in 2025.
• Livelihood Loss: Migration from degraded areas, like Rajasthan’s Thar Desert, strains urban centers.

Role of NAPCD:

• Afforestation: NAPCD promotes initiatives like the Green India Mission, planting 10 million trees in 2024 to restore degraded lands.
• Sustainable Practices: It encourages watershed management and organic farming to enhance soil health.
• Community Engagement: Local communities are trained in water conservation, as seen in Gujarat’s check dam projects.

Conclusion
Desertification, driven by human activities and climate change, undermines India’s socio-economic fabric. The NAPCD plays a critical role in mitigating these impacts through afforestation and sustainable practices, fostering resilience and sustainable land management.

Q17. Evaluate the statement: “India’s defense exports are a testament to its growing strategic influence.” (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Answer:

Introduction
India’s defense exports surged to ₹21,083 crore in 2023-24, reflecting its rising strategic influence globally. By exporting to over 85 countries, India showcases its indigenous defense capabilities, strengthening its geopolitical stature and self-reliance under Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

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Factors supporting the statement:

• Indigenous Production: Programs like Make in India have boosted production of systems like BrahMos missiles and Tejas aircraft, exported to nations like the Philippines and Vietnam in 2024.
• Global Partnerships: Defense agreements with countries like the US and France enhance India’s credibility as a reliable supplier.
• Economic Impact: Exports reduce import dependency, saving ₹1.5 lakh crore annually, and create jobs in defense PSUs like HAL.
• Strategic Diplomacy: Supplying defense equipment to neighbors like Maldives strengthens India’s regional influence against competitors like China.

Limitations:

• Limited Product Range: Exports focus on niche products, lacking diversity compared to global leaders like the US.
• Technology Gaps: Dependence on foreign components for systems like drones hinders competitiveness.
• Geopolitical Constraints: Tensions with neighbors like Pakistan limit export markets in the region.

Conclusion
India’s defense exports reflect its growing strategic influence through indigenous manufacturing and global partnerships. However, to sustain this trajectory, India must diversify its offerings, bridge technology gaps, and navigate geopolitical challenges, reinforcing its position as a key player in global defense markets by 2030.

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Q18. Discuss the significance of India’s National Biodiversity Action Plan in conserving biodiversity. How does it address habitat loss? (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Answer: 

Introduction
India, a megadiverse nation, hosts 8% of global biodiversity, yet faces threats from habitat loss and climate change. The National Biodiversity Action Plan (NBAP), aligned with the Convention on Biological Diversity, aims to conserve biodiversity through sustainable practices and habitat restoration, critical for ecological balance and human well-being.

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Significance of NBAP:

• Conservation Framework: NBAP’s 12 national targets promote in-situ and ex-situ conservation, protecting 92,000 species, including tigers and mangroves.
• Community Involvement: It engages local communities through Joint Forest Management, with 22,000 committees managing biodiversity in 2024.
• Policy Integration: NBAP aligns with schemes like the Green India Mission, promoting ecosystem restoration.

Addressing habitat loss:

• Protected Areas: NBAP expands protected areas, covering 5.3% of India’s land in 2025, safeguarding habitats like the Western Ghats.
• Restoration Initiatives: Programs like the National Mission for Sustaining Himalayan Ecosystem restore degraded habitats, with 1.2 million hectares reforested in 2024.
• Sustainable Land Use: It promotes agroforestry and organic farming to reduce habitat destruction from agriculture.

Challenges:

• Urbanization Pressure: Rapid urban expansion, like in Bengaluru, encroaches on biodiversity hotspots.
• Funding Shortages: Limited budgets hinder large-scale restoration efforts.

Conclusion
The NBAP is pivotal in conserving India’s biodiversity by strengthening protected areas and promoting sustainable practices. Addressing habitat loss through restoration and community engagement is key, but overcoming urbanization and funding challenges is essential for long-term ecological sustainability.

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Q19. What are the socio-economic impacts of rapid urbanization in India? Suggest measures for sustainable urban development. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Answer:

Introduction
Rapid urbanization in India, with 36% of the population urban in 2025, drives economic growth but strains resources and social equity. Cities like Mumbai and Delhi exemplify these challenges, necessitating sustainable urban development to balance growth and livability.

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Socio-economic impacts:

• Economic Growth: Urban areas contribute 60% of India’s GDP, with IT hubs like Bengaluru creating millions of jobs in 2024.
• Social Inequality: Slums, housing 20% of urban dwellers, reflect disparities, with limited access to sanitation and healthcare.
• Environmental Strain: Urban sprawl increases air pollution, with Delhi’s AQI exceeding 300 in 2025, impacting public health.
• Resource Pressure: Water scarcity affects 50% of urban households, exacerbated by unplanned urban expansion.

Measures for sustainable urban development:

• Smart Cities Mission: Expand smart infrastructure, like Surat’s waste management system, to enhance efficiency and reduce environmental impact.
• Affordable Housing: Implement PMAY-U 2.0 to provide 1 crore urban homes by 2030, reducing slum proliferation.
• Green Urban Planning: Promote green belts and urban forests, as seen in Hyderabad’s urban lung spaces, to combat pollution.
• Public Transport: Strengthen metro and bus networks, like Delhi Metro’s Phase IV, to reduce vehicular emissions.

Conclusion
Rapid urbanization fuels India’s economic growth but exacerbates inequality and environmental challenges. Sustainable urban development through smart infrastructure, affordable housing, and green planning can ensure inclusive, resilient cities, aligning with India’s 2030 sustainable development goals.

Q20. Critically examine the statement: “India’s counter-terrorism strategy effectively addresses cross-border threats.” (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Answer:

Introduction
India’s counter-terrorism strategy, shaped by cross-border threats from Pakistan and other neighbors, integrates military, diplomatic, and intelligence measures. With incidents like the 2024 Jammu attacks, the strategy’s effectiveness in addressing these threats requires critical evaluation.

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Strengths of India’s strategy:

• Military Response: Surgical strikes, like Uri (2016), and air strikes, like Balakot (2019), deter cross-border terrorism by targeting terror camps.
• Intelligence Coordination: Agencies like RAW and IB, under the Multi-Agency Centre, enhance real-time threat assessment, thwarting attacks in 2024.
• Diplomatic Pressure: India’s FATF advocacy led to Pakistan’s grey-listing, curbing terror financing.
• Border Security: Fencing along the LoC and deployment of 60,000 BSF personnel in 2025 strengthen border defenses.

Limitations:

• Persistent Infiltration: Despite measures, 30–40 infiltrations occurred in Jammu in 2024, exposing gaps in border surveillance.
• Proxy Warfare: Pakistan’s use of non-state actors continues to challenge India’s response mechanisms.
• Internal Coordination: Delays in intelligence-sharing among agencies weaken preemptive actions.

Way forward:

• Technology Integration: Drones and AI-based surveillance can enhance border monitoring.
• Regional Cooperation: Strengthening SAARC-level counter-terrorism frameworks can isolate state sponsors.

Conclusion
India’s counter-terrorism strategy has effectively curtailed cross-border threats through military and diplomatic measures. However, persistent infiltrations and proxy warfare highlight gaps. Integrating advanced technology and regional cooperation can bolster India’s response, ensuring robust security against evolving threats by 2030.