UPSC Mains General Studies (Paper 3) - Mock Test 4 [Solutions] | UPSC Mains Mock Test Series 2025 PDF Download

Q1. Comment on the statement: “India’s digital economy is poised to drive its global competitiveness by 2030.” (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer:
Introduction
India’s digital economy is rapidly transforming, driven by technological advancements, widespread internet access, and supportive government policies. Projected to reach $1 trillion by 2030, it is a key driver of economic growth and global competitiveness.

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Factors positioning India’s digital economy for global competitiveness:

• Digital Infrastructure Growth: Initiatives like Digital India and BharatNet have expanded internet connectivity, with 52% of Indians online in 2022, enabling digital service access.
• Startup Ecosystem: India’s vibrant startup ecosystem, with over 100 unicorns, fosters innovation in fintech, edtech, and healthtech, enhancing global market presence.
• Policy Support: The Digital Agriculture Mission and Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme promote digitization and manufacturing, strengthening economic resilience.
• Skilled Workforce: A large pool of tech-savvy youth drives digital innovation, positioning India as a hub for IT and software services.

Challenges include digital literacy gaps and rural infrastructure deficits, which need addressing to sustain growth.

Conclusion
India’s digital economy, fueled by infrastructure, innovation, and policy, is set to enhance global competitiveness by 2030, provided inclusivity and skill development are prioritized.

Q2. What is the role of the Agricultural Infrastructure Fund in enhancing farm productivity? Discuss its challenges. (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer:
Introduction
The Agricultural Infrastructure Fund (AIF), launched in 2020, is a Rs. 1 lakh crore scheme to boost farm productivity through modern infrastructure. It aims to strengthen post-harvest management and market linkages for farmers.

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Role of AIF in enhancing farm productivity:

• Post-Harvest Infrastructure: AIF finances cold storage, warehouses, and processing units, reducing post-harvest losses by 15-20%, ensuring better produce quality.
• Market Connectivity: Supports e-NAM integration and logistics, enabling farmers to access broader markets, improving price realization.
• Technology Adoption: Funds smart irrigation and mechanized farming tools, enhancing yield efficiency, as seen in drip irrigation projects in Maharashtra.

Challenges:

• Access for Small Farmers: Small and marginal farmers (86% of total) face difficulties accessing funds due to complex application processes.
• Regional Disparities: Uneven fund distribution favors developed states, limiting impact in backward regions.
• Awareness and Capacity: Low awareness and technical know-how hinder effective utilization.

Conclusion
AIF significantly boosts farm productivity, but addressing accessibility, regional equity, and awareness is critical for inclusive growth.

Q3. Critically examine the statement: “Biofortification is the key to addressing malnutrition in India.” (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer:
Introduction
Biofortification, enhancing crop nutrient content through breeding or biotechnology, is often hailed as a solution to India’s malnutrition crisis, affecting 57% of women and 67% of children (NFHS-5).

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Arguments supporting biofortification as key to addressing malnutrition:

• Nutritional Security: Biofortified crops like Golden Rice (Vitamin A) and zinc-rich wheat address micronutrient deficiencies cost-effectively.
• Wide Reach: Sustainable and accessible, biofortified seeds reach rural areas, benefiting small farmers, as seen in ICAR’s NARI programme.
• Disease Resilience: Biofortified crops resist pests and drought, ensuring stable yields despite climate challenges.

Critical challenges:

• Limited Awareness: Farmers and consumers lack knowledge about biofortified crops, slowing adoption.
• High Initial Costs: Developing and distributing biofortified seeds requires significant investment.
• Complementary Measures Needed: Biofortification alone cannot address systemic issues like poverty and poor healthcare.

Conclusion
While biofortification significantly combats malnutrition, its success depends on awareness, affordability, and integration with broader nutritional strategies.

Q4. Explain the concept of Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS). How can it contribute to India’s net-zero goals? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer:
Introduction
Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) involves capturing carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions from industrial sources, transporting, and storing it underground to mitigate climate change. It is critical for India’s net-zero target by 2070.

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Concept of CCS:

• Capture: CO₂ is separated from industrial emissions using chemical solvents or membranes.
• Transport: Captured CO₂ is compressed and transported via pipelines to storage sites.
• Storage: CO₂ is injected into deep geological formations, like depleted oil fields, for long-term sequestration.

Contribution to India’s net-zero goals:

• Emission Reduction: CCS can reduce emissions from coal-based power plants, vital for India’s energy sector.
• Industrial Applications: Supports decarbonization in cement and steel industries, responsible for 5% of global emissions.
• Bio-CCS Potential: Combining CCS with bioenergy can achieve negative emissions, enhancing sustainability.

Challenges include high costs and limited storage sites.

Conclusion
CCS is pivotal for India’s net-zero goals, but scaling requires investment, research, and policy support.

Q5. What are the key features of India’s National Biotechnology Development Strategy? How does it support healthcare innovation? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer:
Introduction
India’s National Biotechnology Development Strategy (NBDS), updated in 2015-20, aims to build a robust biotech ecosystem. It fosters innovation, infrastructure, and public-private partnerships to position India as a global biotech leader.

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Key features of NBDS:

• Research and Innovation: Promotes cutting-edge research in genomics, synthetic biology, and bioinformatics.
• Infrastructure Development: Establishes biotech parks and incubators, like Genome Valley, Hyderabad, to support startups.
• Skill Development: Enhances training through biotech institutes to create a-skilled workforce.
• Regulatory Framework: Strengthens intellectual property rights and biosafety norms for innovation.

Support for healthcare innovation:

• Vaccine Development: NBDS facilitated indigenous vaccines like ZyCoV-D and GEMCOVAC-OM, boosting pandemic response.
• Gene Therapy: Supports trials, like India’s first Hemophilia A gene therapy, advancing precision medicine.
• Affordable Diagnostics: Promotes low-cost diagnostic tools, improving healthcare access.

Challenges include funding gaps and slow patent processing.

Conclusion
NBDS drives healthcare innovation through research and infrastructure, but sustained investment is crucial for global competitiveness.

Q6. What are the causes of soil erosion in India? Suggest measures to promote sustainable land management. (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer:
Introduction
Soil erosion, the removal of topsoil by natural and human-induced factors, is a pressing issue in India, affecting agricultural productivity and environmental sustainability. It threatens food security and livelihoods, particularly in rural areas.

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Causes of Soil Erosion

• Deforestation: Clearing forests for agriculture or urbanization reduces soil cohesion, increasing erosion. For example, Himalayan deforestation exacerbates landslides.
• Overgrazing: Excessive grazing by livestock removes vegetation cover, exposing soil to wind and water erosion.
• Unsustainable Farming Practices: Intensive tilling and monoculture deplete soil nutrients, making it prone to erosion.
• Heavy Rainfall and Flooding: Monsoons cause water erosion, especially in areas with poor vegetation cover.
• Urbanization: Construction activities disturb soil structure, accelerating erosion in peri-urban areas.

Measures for Sustainable Land Management

• Afforestation and Reforestation: Planting trees stabilizes soil and reduces runoff. Initiatives like the Green India Mission promote this.
• Contour Ploughing and Terracing: These techniques reduce water runoff on slopes, preserving topsoil.
• Crop Rotation and Cover Crops: Diverse cropping systems enhance soil fertility and prevent erosion.
• Watershed Management: Integrated watershed programs, like the Neeranchal Project, promote soil conservation.
• Regulation of Grazing: Controlled grazing practices maintain vegetation cover, reducing erosion risks.

Conclusion

Soil erosion in India, driven by natural and anthropogenic factors, demands urgent action. Implementing sustainable land management practices can mitigate erosion, enhance agricultural productivity, and ensure environmental sustainability for future generations.

Q7. Comment on the statement: “India’s 5G rollout is transforming its industrial sector.” (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

​Answer:
Introduction
India’s 5G rollout, initiated in 2022, is poised to revolutionize the industrial sector by enabling high-speed connectivity, low latency, and advanced automation. This transformation aligns with India’s Industry 4.0 vision.

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Transformation Through 5G

• Enhanced Automation: 5G enables real-time data transfer, supporting automation in manufacturing. For instance, smart factories use IoT devices for precision production.
• Improved Supply Chain Management: 5G facilitates real-time tracking, optimizing logistics and reducing costs.
• Remote Operations: Ultra-low latency allows remote monitoring of industrial processes, enhancing efficiency and safety.
• Smart Manufacturing: Integration of AI and 5G in industries like automotive boosts productivity and innovation.
• Energy Efficiency: 5G-enabled sensors optimize energy use, supporting sustainable industrial practices.

Challenges

• High Infrastructure Costs: Establishing 5G networks requires significant investment.
• Digital Divide: Uneven access in rural areas limits inclusive industrial growth.

Conclusion

India’s 5G rollout is transforming industries by fostering automation, efficiency, and innovation. However, addressing infrastructure costs and the digital divide is crucial to ensure equitable benefits across the sector.

Q8. Why is public expenditure on health considered crucial for inclusive growth? Highlight the major issues in India’s healthcare financing. (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer:
Introduction
Public expenditure on health is vital for inclusive growth, ensuring equitable access to healthcare, reducing poverty, and enhancing human capital. In India, it underpins socio-economic development and reduces inequality.

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Importance for Inclusive Growth

• Equitable Access: Public health spending ensures affordable healthcare for marginalized communities, reducing disparities.
• Poverty Reduction: Free or subsidized healthcare prevents catastrophic health expenditures, protecting vulnerable households.
• Human Capital Development: A healthy workforce boosts productivity, contributing to economic growth.
• Social Cohesion: Universal healthcare fosters social equity and stability.

Issues in Healthcare Financing

• Low Public Spending: India’s health expenditure is only 1.5% of GDP, far below global averages.
• High Out-of-Pocket Expenditure: Over 60% of health costs are borne by individuals, pushing millions into poverty.
• Inadequate Infrastructure: Rural areas lack sufficient healthcare facilities and trained personnel.
• Inefficient Fund Allocation: Misallocation and underutilization of funds hinder effective healthcare delivery.

Conclusion
Robust public health expenditure is essential for inclusive growth, but India’s low spending and high out-of-pocket costs pose challenges. Increasing budgetary allocations and improving fund efficiency can ensure equitable healthcare access.

Q9. What is the significance of the National Critical Information Infrastructure Protection Centre in safeguarding India’s digital assets? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer:
Introduction
The National Critical Information Infrastructure Protection Centre (NCIIPC), established under the IT Act, 2000, is pivotal in securing India’s critical digital infrastructure, including power, telecom, and banking systems, against cyber threats.

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Significance of NCIIPC

• Cyber Threat Mitigation: NCIIPC identifies and mitigates cyber threats to critical sectors, ensuring operational continuity.
• Policy Framework Development: It formulates guidelines for securing digital assets, enhancing resilience. For example, it mandates cybersecurity audits for critical infrastructure.
• Coordination with Stakeholders: NCIIPC collaborates with government and private sectors to strengthen cybersecurity frameworks.
• Incident Response: It provides rapid response mechanisms to counter cyberattacks, minimizing damage.
• Awareness and Capacity Building: NCIIPC conducts training programs to enhance cybersecurity expertise across sectors.

Challenges

• Evolving Cyber Threats: Rapidly changing cyberattack techniques require constant vigilance.
• Resource Constraints: Limited funding and skilled personnel hinder NCIIPC’s effectiveness.

Conclusion

NCIIPC plays a crucial role in safeguarding India’s digital assets by mitigating cyber threats and fostering resilience. Strengthening its resources and capabilities is essential for robust cybersecurity.

Q10. What is oil pollution? What are its impacts on the marine ecosystem? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

​Answer:
Introduction
Oil pollution, the release of crude oil or refined petroleum products into marine environments, primarily from spills, industrial discharges, or runoff, severely impacts marine ecosystems, disrupting biodiversity and ecological balance.

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Causes of Oil Pollution

• Oil Spills: Major spills, like the 2010 Ennore oil spill in India, release large oil quantities into seas.
• Industrial Discharges: Untreated effluents from refineries and ships contribute to pollution.
• Urban Runoff: Oil from vehicles and industries reaches oceans via rivers.

Impacts on Marine Ecosystem

• Marine Life Mortality: Oil coats marine animals, impairing movement and respiration, leading to deaths of fish, birds, and mammals.
• Habitat Destruction: Oil degrades coral reefs and mangroves, disrupting breeding grounds.
• Food Chain Contamination: Oil toxins accumulate in marine organisms, affecting higher trophic levels.
• Economic Loss: Fisheries and tourism suffer due to polluted waters.

Conclusi​on

Oil pollution devastates marine ecosystems, threatening biodiversity and livelihoods. Strict regulations, spill response mechanisms, and sustainable practices are essential to mitigate its impacts.

Q11. Evaluate the statement: “The Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan has significantly boosted India’s manufacturing capabilities.” (250 words)

Answer:
Introduction
The Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan, launched in 2020, aims to make India self-reliant by enhancing manufacturing capabilities, promoting domestic production, and reducing import dependency. It includes initiatives like Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes, ease of doing business reforms, and infrastructure development. This answer evaluates the statement by analyzing the initiative’s impact on India’s manufacturing sector.

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Key impacts of Atmanirbhar Bharat on manufacturing:

• PLI Schemes: PLI schemes for sectors like electronics, pharmaceuticals, and solar modules have attracted investments. For example, mobile phone manufacturing saw a surge, with companies like Apple expanding operations in India.
• Infrastructure Development: Investments in industrial corridors and logistics under the PM GatiShakti plan have improved manufacturing efficiency.
• Ease of Doing Business: Reforms like single-window clearances and reduced compliance burdens have encouraged domestic and foreign investments.
• Export Growth: Sectors like defense and electronics have seen export growth due to incentives and policy support.
  Challenges limiting impact:
• Skill Gaps: Lack of skilled labor hinders advanced manufacturing.
• Global Competition: High production costs and regulatory hurdles limit competitiveness.
• Supply Chain Issues: Dependency on imported raw materials, like semiconductors, persists.

Conclusion
The Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan has bolstered India’s manufacturing through targeted policies and investments, evident in sectors like electronics and pharmaceuticals. However, challenges like skill shortages and global competition require sustained reforms. Strengthening skill development, supply chains, and innovation will ensure the initiative’s long-term success in making India a global manufacturing hub.

Q12. Discuss the potential of contract farming in improving agricultural incomes in India. What are the challenges in its implementation? (250 words)

Answer:
Introduction
Contract farming, where farmers grow crops under agreements with agribusiness firms, offers significant potential to enhance agricultural incomes in India by ensuring market access and price stability. With 86% of Indian farmers being small and marginal, this model can transform rural economies. This answer discusses its potential and implementation challenges.

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Potential of contract farming:

• Assured Market Access: Contracts guarantee buyers, reducing market risks for farmers. For instance, poultry contract farming has stabilized incomes in states like Maharashtra.
• Price Stability: Fixed prices shield farmers from market volatility, ensuring steady incomes.
• Access to Inputs: Firms provide quality seeds, fertilizers, and technology, boosting productivity.
• Skill Development: Exposure to modern farming techniques enhances farmers’ capabilities.

Challenges in implementation:

• Unequal Bargaining Power: Large corporations often dictate terms, leaving farmers vulnerable to exploitation.
• Legal Gaps: Weak enforcement of contracts leads to disputes, as seen in some Punjab cases.
• Limited Awareness: Small farmers lack knowledge about contract farming benefits and legal rights.
• Infrastructure Deficits: Poor storage and transport facilities hinder supply chain efficiency.

Conclusion
Contract farming holds immense potential to improve agricultural incomes by providing market security and access to modern inputs. However, its success depends on addressing challenges like unequal power dynamics and legal enforcement. Strengthening farmer cooperatives, improving awareness, and enacting robust legal frameworks will ensure equitable benefits, fostering sustainable agricultural growth.

Q13. What are the environmental and social impacts of mining in India’s tribal areas? Suggest measures to ensure sustainable mining practices. (250 words)

Answer:
Introduction
Mining in India’s tribal areas, rich in minerals like coal, bauxite, and iron ore, drives economic growth but poses significant environmental and social challenges. These regions, home to vulnerable tribal communities, face ecological degradation and livelihood threats. This answer examines these impacts and suggests sustainable measures.

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Environmental and social impacts:

• Deforestation and Habitat Loss: Mining activities clear forests, disrupting ecosystems. For example, coal mining in Jharkhand has reduced forest cover significantly.
• Water and Soil Pollution: Mine runoff contaminates rivers and soils, affecting agriculture and health.
• Displacement of Tribes: Mining projects displace tribal communities, eroding their cultural identity and livelihoods, as seen in Odisha’s Niyamgiri hills.
• Health Hazards: Dust and chemical exposure cause respiratory and other health issues among locals.

Measures for sustainable mining:

• Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA): Strict EIAs should precede mining approvals to minimize ecological damage.
• Community Consent: Free, prior, and informed consent from tribal communities must be mandatory.
• Rehabilitation and Reforestation: Robust rehabilitation plans and afforestation drives can restore ecosystems and livelihoods.
• Green Technologies: Adopting low-impact mining technologies reduces pollution and resource depletion.

Conclusion
Mining in tribal areas has caused environmental degradation and social displacement, threatening ecosystems and livelihoods. Sustainable practices, including rigorous EIAs, community involvement, and green technologies, are essential to balance economic gains with environmental and social justice. Empowering tribal communities and enforcing regulations will ensure equitable and sustainable mining.

Q14. Why do you think the manufacturing sector is considered the backbone of economic development? Why could India not capitalize on it after independence, unlike some other Asian countries? (250 words)

Answer:
Introduction
The manufacturing sector is pivotal for economic development due to its ability to generate employment, drive innovation, and boost exports. Unlike Asian peers like South Korea and China, India struggled to capitalize on manufacturing post-independence. This answer explores the sector’s importance and India’s challenges.

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Importance of manufacturing:

• Employment Generation: Manufacturing creates jobs for both skilled and unskilled workers, reducing poverty. For example, China’s manufacturing boom lifted millions out of poverty.
• Economic Multiplier Effect: It stimulates demand for raw materials, logistics, and services, spurring growth.
• Export Potential: Manufactured goods enhance trade balances, as seen in South Korea’s electronics exports.
• Innovation Hub: Manufacturing fosters technological advancements, driving economic resilience.

Reasons India lagged:

• Policy Focus on Heavy Industries: Post-independence License Raj prioritized capital-intensive industries, neglecting labor-intensive sectors.
• Infrastructure Deficits: Poor transport and power infrastructure hindered industrial growth, unlike China’s robust investments.
• Regulatory Constraints: Complex labor laws and bureaucratic delays deterred investments, while countries like Singapore streamlined regulations.
• Skill Shortages: Limited focus on vocational training left India with an unskilled workforce, unlike South Korea’s education reforms.

Conclusion
Manufacturing is the backbone of economic development due to its role in job creation, exports, and innovation. India’s post-independence focus on heavy industries, coupled with infrastructure and regulatory challenges, hindered its manufacturing growth compared to Asian peers. Reforms like Atmanirbhar Bharat and skill development initiatives are crucial to unlocking India’s manufacturing potential.

Q15. Analyze the role of India’s National Space Policy in fostering private sector innovation. How does it support missions like Aditya-L1? (250 words)

Answer:
Introduction
India’s National Space Policy 2023 aims to foster private sector participation in space activities, enhancing innovation and global competitiveness. By liberalizing the space sector, it supports ambitious missions like Aditya-L1, India’s first solar observatory. This answer analyzes the policy’s role and its impact on such missions.

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Role in fostering private sector innovation:

• Liberalized Framework: The policy allows private companies to undertake end-to-end space activities, including satellite manufacturing and launch services.
• IN-SPACe Support: The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) facilitates private sector access to ISRO’s infrastructure, fostering startups like Skyroot Aerospace.
• FDI and Technology Transfer: Relaxed FDI norms and technology-sharing provisions encourage innovation and investment.
• Commercial Opportunities: Private firms can develop applications like remote sensing, boosting economic contributions.

Support for missions like Aditya-L1:

• Collaborative Ecosystem: The policy enables private firms to contribute components and services for ISRO missions, enhancing efficiency.
• Cost Reduction: Private sector involvement in manufacturing and launches reduces costs, supporting complex missions like Aditya-L1.
• Innovation Boost: Startups provide cutting-edge technologies, improving mission precision and data analysis.
• Capacity Building: The policy promotes skill development, ensuring a talent pool for advanced missions.

Conclusion
The National Space Policy 2023 has catalyzed private sector innovation by creating a collaborative, liberalized ecosystem. It supports missions like Aditya-L1 by leveraging private expertise, reducing costs, and fostering technological advancements. Sustained public-private partnerships will ensure India’s leadership in space exploration and innovation.

Q16. What are the causes of increasing forest fires in India? Discuss the effectiveness of the National Action Plan on Forest Fires. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Answer:
Introduction
Forest fires in India have surged in recent decades, threatening biodiversity, ecosystems, and livelihoods. Over 36% of India’s forest cover is fire-prone, with states like Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Odisha being the most affected. The increasing frequency and intensity of forest fires are driven by a combination of natural and anthropogenic factors, necessitating robust mitigation strategies like the National Action Plan on Forest Fires (NAPFF), launched in 2018.

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Causes of Increasing Forest Fires:

• Climate Change: Rising temperatures and prolonged dry spells, exacerbated by climate change, create favorable conditions for fires. For instance, Central India’s fire season may extend by 61 days by century’s end due to warming.
• Human Activities: Over 90% of fires are human-induced, including slash-and-burn agriculture, unattended campfires, and arson for land grabbing.
• Vegetation and Fuel Load: Accumulation of dry biomass, like pine needles in Uttarakhand, increases flammability.
• Natural Causes: Lightning and friction from bamboo or rolling stones contribute marginally but ignite flammable litter.

Effectiveness of NAPFF:

• Community Empowerment: NAPFF promotes community participation through Joint Forest Management Committees, enhancing local response capacity.
• Technology Integration: Satellite-based monitoring and fire-alert systems, like the Van-Agni portal, enable early detection. However, the system struggles to differentiate forest fires from other fires, delaying response.
• Capacity Building: Training for forest staff and fire watchers has reduced burnt areas, as seen in Chandrapur (from 15% in 1985 to 1.86% in 1989).
• Challenges: Inconsistent funding under the Forest Fire Prevention and Management Scheme and poor coordination between agencies limit effectiveness.

Conclusion
The rising incidence of forest fires in India, driven by climate change and human activities, poses a significant challenge. While NAPFF has made strides in community engagement and technology adoption, its effectiveness is hampered by funding instability and coordination gaps. Strengthening financial support, improving alert systems, and scaling community-based models like Nepal’s Fire-Free Village Program can enhance forest fire management.

Q17. Critically examine India’s approach to maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region. How can it be strengthened? (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Answer:
Introduction
The Indian Ocean Region (IOR) is critical for global trade and India’s strategic interests, given its 7,500-km coastline and proximity to key shipping routes. India’s maritime security approach focuses on safeguarding economic interests, countering threats, and fostering regional cooperation. However, evolving geopolitical challenges necessitate a critical evaluation and strengthening of this approach.

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India’s Approach to Maritime Security:

• Naval Modernization: India has expanded its naval capabilities with advanced warships, submarines, and maritime patrol aircraft to secure its Exclusive Economic Zone and counter piracy.
• Regional Cooperation: Initiatives like the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium and SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) promote collaboration with littoral states.
• Anti-Piracy Operations: The Indian Navy’s anti-piracy patrols off Somalia have reduced incidents, enhancing maritime safety.
• Challenges: Limited budgetary allocation, delays in naval acquisitions, and China’s growing presence in the IOR (e.g., Belt and Road Initiative ports) strain India’s capabilities.

Measures to Strengthen Maritime Security:

• Enhance Naval Capacity: Accelerate indigenous shipbuilding and modernize naval infrastructure to counter delays in procurement.
• Strengthen Regional Alliances: Deepen partnerships through QUAD and trilateral exercises with France and Australia to counterbalance China’s influence.
• Leverage Technology: Deploy drones, satellite surveillance, and AI-based threat detection for real-time maritime domain awareness.
• Capacity Building: Train coastal communities and state agencies for better coordination in maritime security operations.

Conclusion
India’s maritime security approach in the IOR is robust but faces challenges from resource constraints and geopolitical competition. Strengthening naval capabilities, fostering regional alliances, and integrating advanced technology will enhance India’s strategic presence, ensuring stability and security in the IOR.

Q18. Discuss the significance of the National Mission on Natural Farming in promoting sustainable agriculture. What are its key challenges? (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Answer:
Introduction
The National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF), launched as part of the National Action Plan on Climate Change, promotes sustainable agriculture by encouraging chemical-free farming practices. With a focus on indigenous crop varieties and ecological balance, NMNF aims to enhance soil health, reduce input costs, and ensure food security, aligning with India’s climate and sustainability goals.

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Significance of NMNF:

• Environmental Sustainability: NMNF promotes organic practices like crop rotation and bio-fertilizers, reducing soil degradation and carbon emissions.
• Economic Benefits: By minimizing reliance on chemical inputs, it lowers costs for farmers, as seen in Andhra Pradesh’s Zero Budget Natural Farming model.
• Biodiversity Conservation: Encouraging indigenous crops preserves genetic diversity, enhancing resilience against climate variability.
• Health and Food Security: Chemical-free produce ensures safer food, addressing malnutrition and supporting rural livelihoods.

Key Challenges:

• Awareness and Adoption: Limited farmer awareness and resistance to transitioning from conventional farming hinder scalability.
• Infrastructure Gaps: Inadequate training facilities and supply chains for organic inputs limit implementation.
• Yield Concerns: Initial yield reductions during the transition phase discourage farmers, especially smallholders.
• Policy Support: Inconsistent funding and lack of market linkages for natural farming products pose barriers.

Conclusion
The NMNF is pivotal for sustainable agriculture, fostering environmental and economic resilience. However, overcoming challenges like awareness, infrastructure, and policy gaps is crucial. Scaling up successful models like Andhra Pradesh’s, coupled with robust training and market support, can ensure NMNF’s success in transforming Indian agriculture.

Q19. What are the socio-economic impacts of climate-induced migration in India? Suggest measures to address this issue. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Answer:
Introduction
Climate-induced migration in India, driven by rising temperatures, erratic monsoons, and extreme weather events, is reshaping socio-economic landscapes. With millions displaced annually, particularly from vulnerable regions like Sundarbans and coastal areas, this phenomenon poses significant challenges to livelihoods, urban systems, and social equity.

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Socio-Economic Impacts:

• Livelihood Loss: Climate events like floods and droughts force rural communities, especially farmers, to abandon agriculture, leading to income loss. For example, Sundarbans’ residents face salinity-driven crop failures.
• Urban Overcrowding: Migration to cities strains urban infrastructure, increasing slum populations and pressure on resources like water and housing.
• Social Inequities: Marginalized groups, including women and lower castes, face greater vulnerability, often lacking access to relocation support.
• Economic Strain: Migrants often take up low-paying, informal jobs, perpetuating poverty cycles and reducing remittances to rural areas.

Measures to Address the Issue:

• Climate-Resilient Agriculture: Promote drought-resistant crops and irrigation systems to sustain rural livelihoods.
• Urban Planning: Develop affordable housing and job opportunities in cities to integrate migrants effectively.
• Skill Development: Provide vocational training to migrants for better employment prospects in urban areas.
• Policy Integration: Incorporate climate migration into national disaster management and adaptation plans, ensuring targeted support for vulnerable groups.

Conclusion
Climate-induced migration in India exacerbates socio-economic challenges, straining resources and deepening inequities. Proactive measures like resilient agriculture, urban planning, and skill development can mitigate impacts. Integrating migration into climate policies will ensure sustainable livelihoods and social equity for affected communities.

Q20. Comment on the role of the Public Distribution System in ensuring food security in India. What are the challenges in its modernization? (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Answer:
Introduction
The Public Distribution System (PDS) in India is a cornerstone of food security, providing subsidized food grains to millions, particularly the poor. Established under the National Food Security Act, 2013, it ensures access to essential commodities, mitigating hunger and malnutrition across rural and urban areas.

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Role of PDS in Food Security:

• Affordable Access: PDS delivers subsidized rice, wheat, and coarse grains to over 80 crore beneficiaries, ensuring affordability for low-income households.
• Nutritional Support: It addresses malnutrition by providing essential calories, especially in rural areas where 65% of beneficiaries reside.
• Economic Stability: By stabilizing food prices, PDS cushions vulnerable populations against market fluctuations.
• Crisis Response: During crises like droughts or pandemics, PDS ensures food availability, as seen during COVID-19 relief distributions.

Challenges in Modernization:

• Leakages and Corruption: Diversion of grains to the open market and inclusion errors reduce PDS efficiency.
• Technological Gaps: Incomplete digitization and Aadhaar integration hinder real-time monitoring and transparency.
• Supply Chain Issues: Inefficient procurement, storage, and distribution lead to wastage and delays in delivery.
• Inclusion-Exclusion Errors: Inaccurate beneficiary identification excludes deserving households while including ineligible ones.

Conclusion
The PDS plays a vital role in ensuring food security by providing affordable and accessible food to millions. However, its modernization faces challenges like leakages, technological gaps, and supply chain inefficiencies. Strengthening digitization, improving targeting, and enhancing supply chain management will make PDS more effective, ensuring robust food security for India’s vulnerable populations.