[Insights Secure – 2018] Daily UPSC Mains Answer Writing Practice: 17 March 2018
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LIST of TOPICS (Static)
REVISION TIMETABLE FOR PRELIMS – 2018
General Studies – 1
Topic: Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the present- significant events, personalities, issues
Bipan Chandra, India’s Struggle for Independence, Chapter 27
Why this question?
This topic is from out topic list. Related to syllabus.
Key demand of the question:
Explain that peasant struggles during 1930s and 1940s were part of freedom struggle.
Directive Word:
Examine– Extract relevant facts from the reference and use them to explain how peasant struggles during 1930s and 1940s were part of freedom struggle.
Structure of Answer:
In the introduction, write significance of peasant movements in the anti-colonial struggle (how it complimented efforts of national leaders and made anti-colonial struggle truly mass movement)
In the body, through 4-5 arguments(categories/themes) explain how peasant movements were intertwined with national movement. Through categories of Civil Disobedience movement, Congress rule etc and within them by giving examples of important peasant movements, explain the linkages.
In the conclusion write that even after Independence peasant movements continued due to new challenges and unmet demands. Or write any other relevant, yet thoughtful conclusion.
General Studies – 2
Topic: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests
2) It is in India’s best interests to have a strong World Trade Organisation. Analyse. (250 Words)
Why this question?
India is hosting mini ministerial meeting of WTO and there is so much negativity around WTO. Important for Mains – 2018 (many times WTO related questions have been asked)
Key demand of the question:
Analyse why WTO is beneficial to India and why WTO should be strengthened (this part should be explained along with the first part)
Directive Word:
Analyse: Identify several broad categories and divide them into sub-parts to write an effective answer (analysis means breaking into parts and then examining each part closely)
Structure of Answer:
In the introduction write in 2-3 lines why WTO is relevant, more so for India and why it must be strengthened, especially through India’s leadership.
In the body, divide answer into 4-5 broad themes like Food Security, Trade etc. Within them again create sub-parts. In each part, provide an argument + supporting fact (example).
In the conclusion, write 1-2 lines about need for reforming the governance structure of public sector banks and making RBI accountable.
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.
3) Examine the impact of the recommendations of the Fourteenth Finance Commission. (250 Words)
Why this question?
As 15th Finance Commission is given terms of reference and is set to prepare its recommendations, impact of 14th FC can be asked in exam. Important question for Mains – 2018.
Key demand of the question:
Direct question – just examine impact of 14th FC.
Directive Word:
Examine: Refer the given link, extract relevant information and present it (categorise them). No need to provide your opinion.
Structure of Answer:
In the introduction write in 2-3 lines how Finance Commissions have impacted fiscal federalism and why 14th FC impact is important.
Briefly define mandate of FC and constitutional background.
In the body, divide answer into TWO main categories( central transfers, Social sector expenditure) and within them write about impacts – both positives and negatives.
In the conclusion, write in 1-2 lines on 15th FC and suggest that it would address shortcomings of previous FC recommendations.
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. Related to topic in syllabus. Also introduces you to an important concept – fiscal federalism (if you don’t know it)
Key demand of the question:
Analyse how recent changes such as GST, NITI Aayog will impact 15th FC functioning and recommendations.
Directive Word:
Analyse: Divide into parts and sub-parts, and examine as per demand of the question.
Structure of Answer:
In the introduction write in 3-4 lines about recent changes in fiscal federalism and challenges they pose to FC.
Define fiscal federalism. Briefly explain mandate and constitutional provisions of FC.
In the body, divide into recent changes related to fiscal federalism (NITI Aayog, GST). Under them examine how they will impact 15th FC. Refer here for more points.
In the conclusion, write that it’s an uphill task for 15th FC and it should overcome challenges to accommodate interests of states.
Related articles/questions on Insights: Here
General Studies – 3
Topic: Conservation, Environmental pollution
Why this question?
Relate dto syllabus and has been in news since 2016. Important question for Mains- 2018.
Key demand of the question:
Discuss (significance, consequences, shortcomings etc) features of draft national forest policy.
Directive Word:
Discuss: Explore important dimensions such as significance, consequences, shortcomings (discuss is like written debate – covering important dimensions of an issue)
Structure of Answer:
In the introduction write 2-3 lines why there was a need for new forest policy and how the new policy might address some important issues today.
In the body, divide answer into 5-6 categories – Role of private players, urban green, economic value, forest management etc. Within them write significance, consequences, shortcomings).
In the conclusion, press the need for implementation of these policies in letter and spirit by increasing funds, forest governance, human resources etc.
General Studies – 4
Topic: Human Values
Why this question?
Importance of moral, ethics and values is decreasing (or perceived to be decreasing) due to more importance given to money and material prosperity. This question seeks to test your understanding of linkage between money and values.
Key demand of the question:
Comment if importance of values have diminished in society due to importance given to money. Also comment on the impact of money on morals.
Directive Word:
Comment: Through valid examples, write your opinion on two parts of the question.
Structure of Answer:
In the introduction write 1-2 lines about importance of values and morals today and take a stand if their importance has diminished or not.
In the body, divide answer into TWO main parts: First to comment to whether money has eaten up values or not. Second to comment on impact of money on morals (refer to article). In each part give two examples to substantiate your opinion.
In the conclusion write something like values change with times but there are eternal values such as love, faith, trust etc which will not change.
Other IMPORTANT issues that are NOT covered Today in Secure/Covered Previously:
