[Insights Secure – 2018] Daily UPSC Mains Answer Writing Practice: 28 February 2018
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LIST of TOPICS (Static)
General Studies – 1
Topic: Social empowerment; Secularism; Salient features of Indian Society
Why this question?
Any issue on weaker sections is important for Mains. Issues on dalit and tribal empowerment should be studied holistically and this questions adds another dimension to this issue. Moreover, question is directly related to syllabus.
Key demand of the question:
In the first part, with valid arguments and facts justify if making dalit and tribals priests is a revolutionary and reformative step. In the second part, examine how sections of society – dalits themselves, upper caste people, civil society view this step. Both dimensions should be given equal importance.
Directive Word:
Justify– With suitable examples and justifications, you should take a stand and defend it.
Examine: In the second part, from article, extract related facts and present them in answer
Structure of Answer:
In the introduction, write in 1-2 lines how empowerment of dalits and tribals is en evolving phenomenon which faces several hurdles. Then write a line about your stance – if priesthood is ticket to liberation for dalits.
In the body, in TWO Mains parts address question’s demand. In first part, your justification. Here, divide this part into 3-4 sub-parts (each sub-part for one justification). In the second part, present opinions of different sections of society on this issue. If you are an anthropology or sociology student, don’t use too many optional jargon in GS answer. It backfires.
In the conclusion, suggest 1-2 additional measures that can more revolutionary that priesthood.
Topic: The Freedom Struggle – its various stages and important contributors /contributions from different parts of the country.
Why this question?
It is his 87th death anniversary. As it is specifically mentioned in news about ‘personalities’ and ‘contributors’ to India’s independence, it’s better to prepare comprehensively on these freedom fighters who are in news. Of course, we should never forget these heroes.
Key demand of the question:
Entire focus should be on his ideology and contributions. However, you should comment on these aspects.
Directive Word:
Comment– You should write your opinion on Azad’s ideology and contribution. Mere presentation of facts should be avoided.
Structure of Answer:
In the introduction, write 2-3 lines on how heroes like Azad has left indelible mark and why their ideology and sacrifice is relevant even today.
In the body, there should be TWO main parts to fulfil question’s demand. In the First part, comment on Azad’s ideology – its merits, demerits, its influence etc. In the Second part, comment on his contributions – their futility or enduring relevance etc. You have freedom to comment on how significant or insignificant his contribution has been.
In the conclusion, write which traits of these revolutionaries can emulate. Or come up with a conclusion that honours sacrifices of Azad and other revolutionaries. Try to link with present issues.
General Studies – 2
Topic: Indian Constitution- historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure.
Why this question?
Directly related to the syllabus. Question on constitution is important as there is a controversy regarding changing it. Important question.
Key demand of the question:
You need to take a stand. Reference article helps you in this regard. Throughly defend your stance through various dimensions (discuss). You should take balanced position n questions like this where you can argue in favour of both positions.
Directive Word:
Discuss: Divide answer into various dimensions so as to address it holistically.
Structure of Answer:
In the introduction write why the Constitution marks an important milestone for India. Then take a stand in the introduction itself.
In the body, divide into 3-4 dimensions and defend why you want to take particular stand (here, balanced opinion).
In the conclusion, write how the constitution is evolving and also highlight the threats it faces today from diverse (or divisive) forces.
Topic: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests
Why this question?
Quad is in news all the time thanks to China’s rise and rise. However, analysing if it’s just another futile attempt to counter China or not is important. As it’s an evolving issue, you should know its contours now itself. Important question for Mains.
Key demand of the question:
Address if the Quad is a formidable counter-arrangement to counter China. Make both pro and against arguments.
Directive Word:
Critically examine: You should write pro and against facts and opinions (not your own).
Structure of Answer:
In the introduction, write in 2-3 lines, especially in the light of recent event of rise of Xi as supreme leader for eternity(as long as he lives though), why Quad is needed and what’s it present status is.
In the body, don’t mechanically divide answer into “positives” and “Negatives”. Properly balance answer by using connective and transition words (Such as However, Moreover etc). In each part, in the light of various current affairs, examine if Quad is a viable and strong arrangement to counter China.
In the conclusion, give a message that the Quad should be careful yet grow more robust.
Topic: Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health,
Why this question?
It is in news due to Delhi High Court order. Moreover, health insurance is an important issue due to government’s new scheme (National Health Protection Scheme). Important question for Mains.
Key demand of the question:
Please note that the main focus of answer should be on analysing problems plaguing health insurance and what measures are needed to fix them. But you should analyse in the light of Right to Health context (Which means, most of your points should be related to rights aspects)
Directive Word:
Critically analyse: In various parts, you should objectively examine and write opinion regarding demand of the question. Here, wherever it’s needed, write 1-2 positives also.
Structure of Answer:
In the introduction, by linking to current issues, write in 2-3 lines importance of universal health coverage that is rights based.
In the body, divide answer into TWO mains parts – to address Problems and Measures to address these problems. Within each part, in various categories, examine problems that are related to insurance companies, government policy, health policies, court observations etc – all by keeping in mind Right to health aspect.
In the conclusion, suggest why it’s urgent for India to fix these problems and move towards becoming more inclusive healthy society.
General Studies – 3
Topic: Indigenization of technology and developing new technology
Why this question?
This question is important because Make in India is a flagship initiative of the union government and its critical evaluation will be tested in exam.
Key demand of the question:
More focus on indigenisation of defence needed while examining why Make in India has not succeeded. Note that this question forces you to write only negative aspects. However, in the end do write 1-2 positive points (if there are any).
Directive Word:
Examine: From article extract relevant points, structure them properly and present them. No need to write your own opinion.
Structure of Answer:
In the introduction write in 2-3 lines objectives of Make in India and how it has failed to fulfil its promises. Mention indigenisation of defence products here, especially in the current issue of Rafael deal and arms shortage being faced by armed forces.
In the body, in 4-5 parts, address demand of the question. In each part focus on particular reason such as procedural delays etc. You will not find entire answer in the reference article. You should do some research.
In the conclusion, write a insightful line (such as how industrialists are fleeing India, or not coming to India), or link with demonetisation or GST. (be original though)
General Studies – 4
Topic: Ethical concerns and dilemmas in government and private institutions;
Why this question?
There will be six case studies. The given case study is a slightly modified case study of that appeared in CSM-2017.
Key demand of the question:
You should write various options available to you (maximum 4, minimum 3) and discuss their merits and demerits.
Directive Word:
Discuss: You should consider all dimensions(stakeholders and consequences) and evaluate merits and demerits.
Structure of Answer:
There should be general introduction before starting main answer. In the introduction, in one or two paragraph, write about mains issues you are facing in the case, important facts and all the stakeholders affected by these ethical issues. Also mention values that are affected (positively or negatively). All in paragraph format.
In the body, divide answer into 3-4 parts based on number of options that you choose.
Start from least suitable to most appropriate option. In each option in 2-3 separate paragraphs, discuss merits and demerits. Start with merits. In first 2 options there should be more demerits. Consider all stakeholders while writing merits and demerits. Mention which value is affected.
The last option, even though not asked, should be the one that you pursue. here, you need to provide justifications why you will choose this option.
It’s ok to shoot word limit. Quality of arguments is more important than word limit in Ethics paper.
Conclusion is naturally drawn from justification part. Highlight in 1-2 sentence how your actions will help most of the stakeholders. (go by utilitarianism approach)
Other Important issues that are NOT covered today in Secure:
- Agrarian Distress
- The “Performance On Health Outcomes” index
- Benefits of Climate Change – for India
- Financial Action Task Force (FATF)
