[Insights Secure – 2018] Daily UPSC Mains Answer Writing Practice: 09 March 2018
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LIST of TOPICS (Static)
General Studies – 1
Topic: Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times.
Why this question?
It’s in our topic list. It’s always an important topic from both prelims and mains point of view.
Key demand of the question:
Write about religious, architectural and philosophical significance of Buddhist Stupas. Give equal weightage to all 3 aspects.
Directive Word:
Discuss– Question itself has given three dimensions. Now, within these dimensions, cover important aspects of each dimension.
Structure of Answer:
In the introduction, write a line or two about how Stupas are embodiment of Buddha’s ideology and himself. Also write how architectural style of Stupa has various forms across Asia symbolising various aspects of Buddhism.
In the body, as per question’s demand there are THREE parts(religious, architectural and philosophical significance). Discuss each with suitable examples. Notice that question is about ‘various forms’ of Buddhist Stupas.
In the conclusion, write the need for preserving these structures. Or write any relevant conclusion.
Tip: Maintain balance between facts and analysis. If you analyse without facts, you will end up scoring less.
General Studies – 2
Topic: Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure, devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein
Why this question?
It’s in news and is an important issue. Important for Mains.
Key demand of the question:
Direct question – discuss why Andhra is demanding special status and also discuss legality and economic implications. Give equal weightage to all parts. Do refer to Related Questions(below) links for more content.
Directive Word:
Discuss: Discuss various dimensions as demanded by the question. You can comment wherever necessary.
Structure of Answer:
In the introduction write why certain states need special status and if Andhra fits in here. Also write a line about 14th Finance Commission’s recommendation.
In a small paragraph(2-3 lines), briefly write background about special status issue.
In the body, divide answer into THREE main parts: First for explaining why Andhra is seeking special status. Second for writing about constitutional status (Finance Commission etc. No explicit provision in the Constitution though). Third for economic implications.
In the conclusion, write in 1-2 lines about challenges involved in granting special status.
Topic: Mechanisms, laws, institutions and Bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections
Why this question?
Violence/crimes against children and women are favourite topics for UPSC.
Key demand of the question:
It’s a statement based question and gives a context as well. Don’t write too much on Haryana and Rajasthan laws. Write more about reforming justice system. Write about demerits of death penalties.
Directive Word:
Analyse: In parts/categories, examine and comment on the statement. To analyse, you should first identify broad categories.
Structure of Answer:
In the introduction write 1-2 lines on abysmal record of India in protecting its children (quote a report). Also write a line on need for structural reforms in justice system rather than resorting to deterrences.
In the body, in 4-5 categories, argue why and how India’s justice system needs strengthening in order to protect children from sexual violences. Give examples. Also argue why death penalty may not be the right solution.
In the conclusion, write the importance of creating awareness about laws and implications of crimes.
Tip: With more practice you will learn to break-down answer into parts. Categorising points will fetch you more marks.
General Studies – 3
Topic: Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life; Security challenges and their management in border areas;
Why this question?
This questions inter-links two topics in GS-3 syllabus(Space Tech and Counter-terrorism). Important for Mains.
Key demand of the question:
Discuss how space technology in India can be optimally and effectively used for counter-terrorism applications.
Directive Word:
Discuss: Discuss all dimensions – potential, challenges, technology needed, present status etc.
Structure of Answer:
In the introduction write the need for India to use its space prowess to address terror challenge in remote and rough terrains without incurring human losses.
In the body, in 4-5 parts, discuss various dimensions of using space tech to counter terror.(existing capabilities, challenges, potential, border management etc)
In the conclusion, write about the need for going for such strategy with cost effectiveness and also without starting a space war in the region.
Topic: Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life; Security challenges and their management in border areas;
Why this question?
Similar to cyber security law, time has come for space security policy. Important for Mains.
Key demand of the question:
Write why India needs a space security policy and what should be its components. Give equal weightage to both parts.
Directive Word:
Analyse: In the second part, compulsorily divide answer into components and examine them.
Structure of Answer:
In the introduction write in 1-2 lines why the time has come to have a space security policy.
In the body, there should be TWO main parts. First for giving reasons for India to have space security policy. Second for analysing components that should be there (refer article)
In the conclusion, write why it’s important to implement these policies rather than just formulating and forgetting them.
General Studies – 4
Topic: Public/Civil service values and Ethics in Public administration:
Why this question?
This question is similar to a question that was asked by UPSC in 2014 (Q 4a & 4b)
Key demand of the question:
You should write how you are preparing yourself for the big responsibility. It’s about present – ways in which you are improving your ethical competence – that you should write. Don’t write about what you are going to do in future!
Directive Word:
No directive: It’s examining the ways and measures that you are adopting today to make yourself ethically competent to handle huge responsibilities tomorrow.
Structure of Answer:
Write an introduction about the need for candidates to develop ethical competence before entering into civil services where they have to take important decisions on day to day basis which involve huge public funds and key responsibilities.
In the body, in about 5-6 different points (written in small paragraphs) write how you are improving your ethical abilities. For example, in one paragraph you can write that you are learning to live frugally so as to know the value of money and resources. Similarly, focus on key ethical values that are necessary to be cultivated. Based on your personal experiences(like returning a lost wallet to its rightful owner etc), you can highlight key values which you have inculcated over the years.
In the conclusion write in 1-2 lines why these values are relevant today.
Tip: Do focus on values such as innovation, frugality in your answers. Don’t just stick to integrity, honesty etc.
Other IMPORTANT issues that are NOT covered Today in Secure:
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- North East for Act East
- Can India build World Class Companies
- Hurdles in Women’s Employment
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