Model Answer: 

India’s vulnerability to earthquake-related hazards stems from its position at the junction of three tectonic plates: the Indian, Eurasian, and Arabian plates. This geological setting, combined with rapid urbanization and inadequate construction practices, amplifies the risk across the country.

Key factors contributing to India’s earthquake vulnerability include:

• Seismic zonation: Nearly 59% of India’s land area falls under moderate to severe seismic zones (III-V).
• Major fault lines: The Himalayan Frontal Thrust, Indo-Burmese Arc, and Chaman Fault pose significant risks.
• Urban concentration: Many major cities (e.g., Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata) lie in high-risk zones.
• Poor construction: Lack of adherence to building codes increases potential damage.
• Secondary hazards: Earthquakes can trigger landslides, tsunamis, and fires, compounding the impact.

Notable earthquakes in India over the past three decades include:

1. Bhuj Earthquake (2001, Gujarat):
• Magnitude: 7.7
• Casualties: Over 20,000 deaths
• Salient features: Widespread liquefaction, extensive damage to traditional structures

2. Latur Earthquake (1993, Maharashtra):
• Magnitude: 6.2
• Casualties: Nearly 10,000 deaths
• Salient features: Occurred in a previously considered stable zone, highlighting the need for reassessment

3. Sikkim Earthquake (2011):
• Magnitude: 6.9
• Casualties: Over 100 deaths
• Salient features: Triggered numerous landslides, affected multiple states and neighboring countries

These disasters underscore the critical need for improved building practices (e.g., base isolation techniques), early warning systems, and community preparedness to mitigate the impact of future earthquakes in India.

Conclusion: Enhancing earthquake resilience requires a multi-pronged approach involving stricter building codes, public awareness, and advanced monitoring systems.

Model Answer:

WHO Global Air Quality Guidelines and India’s Clean Air Programme

The World Health Organization (WHO) recently released revised Global Air Quality Guidelines (AQGs), updating its previous standards from 2005. These new guidelines aim to protect public health by providing evidence-based air quality levels for key pollutants.

Key points of the revised WHO AQGs:

• Stricter limits for six major air pollutants: PM2.5, PM10, ozone, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and carbon monoxide
• Introduction of interim targets to guide reduction efforts
• Emphasis on the health impacts of short-term and long-term exposure

Differences from 2005 guidelines:

• Significantly lower recommended levels: PM2.5 annual mean reduced from 10 μg/m³ to 5 μg/m³
• New guidelines for peak season ozone concentrations
• Shorter averaging periods for NO2 and CO to address short-term exposure risks

Changes required in India’s National Clean Air Programme (NCAP):

• Revise current NCAP targets to align with WHO guidelines
• Expand monitoring network to cover more cities and rural areas
• Strengthen emission control measures for industries and vehicles
• Implement sector-specific strategies (e.g., clean cooking fuels, dust management)
• Enhance inter-state coordination for regional air quality management
• Increase public awareness and participation in air quality improvement efforts

Challenges in implementation include:

• High pollution levels in many Indian cities (e.g., Delhi, Kolkata)
• Limited resources and technical capacity
• Balancing economic growth with environmental protection
• Addressing diverse pollution sources (e.g., crop burning, construction)

To achieve the revised standards, India must:

• Set more ambitious, time-bound goals
• Allocate increased funding for air quality initiatives
• Promote cleaner technologies and sustainable practices
• Strengthen enforcement of existing regulations
• Foster collaboration between government, industries, and civil society

Conclusion: Aligning with WHO guidelines requires comprehensive policy reforms and sustained efforts to significantly improve India’s air quality and public health.

Model Answer: 

Green Grid Initiative: Purpose and Origins in International Solar Alliance

The Green Grid Initiative (GGI), launched at the COP26 World Leaders Summit in Glasgow in November 2021, aims to create a global interconnected electricity grid. Its primary purposes are:

• Accelerate the transition to clean energy by facilitating the integration of renewable sources across borders.
• Connect regional grids to form a global network, enabling efficient energy distribution (e.g., solar from deserts, wind from coasts).
• Enhance energy security and stability by allowing countries to tap into a diverse pool of renewable resources.
• Reduce reliance on fossil fuels by making green energy more accessible and affordable globally.

The initiative’s core idea was first proposed within the International Solar Alliance (ISA) in October 2018. Initially called “One Sun One World One Grid” (OSOWOG), it envisioned:

• Harnessing solar energy across time zones to ensure continuous power supply.
• Creating a global ecosystem of interconnected renewable energy resources.
• Fostering international cooperation in clean energy development and distribution.

The ISA, launched by India and France in 2015, played a crucial role in developing this concept. It provided a platform for:

• Collaborative research and policy formulation.
• Mobilizing investments for large-scale solar projects.
• Building partnerships among solar-resource-rich countries.

The evolution from OSOWOG to GGI demonstrates the global recognition of the need for integrated renewable energy systems to combat climate change.

Conclusion: GGI represents a significant step towards global clean energy cooperation, potentially revolutionizing renewable energy distribution and climate action efforts worldwide.

Model Answer: 

S-400 Air Defence System: Technical Superiority

The S-400 Triumf, a Russian-made air defense system, stands out as one of the most advanced in the world due to its superior technical capabilities:

Range and Detection:
• Unparalleled range of up to 400 km, significantly surpassing most competitors.
• Advanced radar systems capable of detecting even stealth aircraft (e.g., F-35, B-2) at great distances.

Multi-Target Engagement:
• Can simultaneously track up to 80 targets and engage up to 16.
• Outperforms many systems limited to single-digit simultaneous engagements.

Missile Diversity:
• Utilizes four different missile types for various ranges and altitudes.
• Capable of intercepting a wide array of threats:
– Aircraft and UAVs
– Ballistic missiles (range up to 3,500 km)
– Cruise missiles
– Hypersonic targets

Speed of Interception:
• Intercepts targets moving at speeds up to Mach 14.
• Effectively counters hypersonic and ballistic threats, a capability many systems lack.

Advanced Electronic Warfare Resistance:
• Robust against jamming and electronic countermeasures.
• Employs frequency-hopping and other advanced techniques to maintain effectiveness in contested electromagnetic environments.

Mobility and Deployment:
• Highly mobile, with rapid deployment time of about 5 minutes.
• Enhances survivability and operational flexibility compared to static systems.

The S-400’s technical superiority lies in its combination of long-range detection, diverse engagement capabilities, and advanced electronic protection, making it a formidable air defense system in modern warfare scenarios.

Model Answer: 

Micro-Irrigation: A Solution to India’s Water Crisis

Micro-irrigation, a water-efficient technology, offers significant potential in addressing India’s water crisis. This method can help alleviate water scarcity issues in the following ways:

1. Improved Water Use Efficiency:
• Precision application: Delivers water directly to plant roots
• Reduced evaporation: Minimizes water loss to the atmosphere
• Controlled distribution: Allows for precise water allocation
• Examples: Drip irrigation, micro-sprinklers

2. Enhanced Crop Productivity:
• Optimal moisture levels: Maintains ideal soil conditions
• Nutrient management: Facilitates efficient fertilizer application
• Increased yields: Improves crop quality and quantity
• Examples: Higher cotton yields, better fruit quality

3. Economic Benefits:
• Reduced input costs: Lowers water and fertilizer expenses
• Increased farmer income: Higher yields lead to better returns
• Energy savings: Requires less pumping compared to flood irrigation

4. Water Conservation Impact:
• Agricultural water savings: Up to 30-50% reduction in water use
• Groundwater preservation: Reduces over-extraction of aquifers
• Expansion of irrigated area: Allows cultivation of more land with same water

Despite these advantages, micro-irrigation’s extent in solving India’s water crisis is limited by:

• High initial costs: Installation expenses may deter small farmers
• Maintenance requirements: Regular upkeep needed for optimal performance
• Adoption challenges: Requires farmer education and mindset change
• Regional suitability: May not be ideal for all crop types or soil conditions

To maximize impact, micro-irrigation should be complemented with:

• Rainwater harvesting
• Crop diversification
• Efficient water pricing policies
• Groundwater regulation

Conclusion: Micro-irrigation is a powerful tool in addressing India’s water crisis, offering significant water savings and productivity gains when implemented effectively.

Model Answer: 

Land Reforms: Improving Socio-Economic Conditions of Marginal and Small Farmers

Land reforms in India have significantly improved the socio-economic conditions of marginal and small farmers in various parts of the country. These reforms, implemented differently across states, aimed to restructure land ownership and usage patterns.

Key reforms and their impacts:

1. Abolition of intermediaries (Zamindari system):
• Removed exploitative middlemen (e.g., zamindars in UP)
• Enabled direct land ownership for small farmers
• Improved economic security and social status

2. Tenancy reforms:
• Provided security of tenure and regulated rent
• Protected small farmers from arbitrary eviction
• Reduced exploitation and improved bargaining power
• Example: “Operation Barga” in West Bengal

3. Land ceiling and redistribution:
• Surplus land redistributed to landless and marginal farmers
• Increased land ownership among smaller farmers
• Enhanced access to credit and agricultural inputs
• Example: Kerala’s land reforms

4. Consolidation of landholdings:
• Fragmented lands consolidated for efficiency
• Improved agricultural productivity for small farmers
• Facilitated better resource management
• Example: Punjab’s consolidation efforts

Socio-economic impacts:

• Increased income and economic stability
• Improved social status and reduced dependency
• Enhanced food security and living standards
• Better access to education and healthcare
• Reduced rural poverty and inequality

Regional variations exist in the success of these reforms. States like Kerala and West Bengal saw more effective implementation, while others lagged behind. Despite challenges, land reforms have generally positively impacted marginal and small farmers’ socio-economic conditions, empowering them and reducing exploitation.

Conclusion: Land reforms have empowered small farmers, reducing poverty and inequality, though regional disparities in implementation persist.

Model Answer: 

Capital Budget vs Revenue Budget: Components and Distinctions

Capital Budget and Revenue Budget are two fundamental components of the government’s annual financial statement, each serving distinct purposes in fiscal management.

Capital Budget:

• Definition: Focuses on long-term financial planning and asset creation
• Components:
1. Capital Receipts:
– Borrowings (e.g., government bonds)
– Recovery of loans
– Disinvestments (e.g., PSU stake sales)
2. Capital Expenditure:
– Acquisition of long-term assets (e.g., land, buildings)
– Infrastructure development (e.g., highways, ports)
– Investments in projects (e.g., power plants)

Revenue Budget:

• Definition: Deals with day-to-day operations and short-term financial needs
• Components:
1. Revenue Receipts:
– Tax revenue (e.g., income tax, GST)
– Non-tax revenue (e.g., dividends, fees)
– Grants from external sources
2. Revenue Expenditure:
– Salaries and pensions
– Subsidies (e.g., food, fertilizer)
– Interest payments on borrowings
– Maintenance of existing assets

Key Distinctions:
1. Time Horizon: Capital Budget is long-term, while Revenue Budget is annual
2. Nature of Transactions: Capital Budget involves asset creation or liability reduction; Revenue Budget covers recurring income and expenses
3. Economic Impact: Capital Budget influences long-term growth; Revenue Budget affects current consumption and services

Conclusion:
Both budgets are crucial for balanced fiscal management, ensuring immediate needs and future development are addressed effectively.

Model Answer: 

India’s GDP Calculation Methodology: Pre-2015 vs Post-2015

In 2015, India significantly revised its methodology for calculating Gross Domestic Product (GDP), marking a shift from the earlier system. This change aimed to align India’s national accounts with global standards and provide a more accurate picture of the economy.

Pre-2015 Methodology:
• Base year: 2004-05
• GDP calculated at factor cost
• Relied heavily on Annual Survey of Industries (ASI) data
• Limited coverage of informal sector and newer economic activities

Post-2015 Methodology:
• Base year updated to 2011-12
• GDP calculated at market prices, including indirect taxes and excluding subsidies
• Incorporation of MCA21 database, providing comprehensive corporate sector data
• Expanded coverage of financial sector, including stock brokers and mutual funds
• Improved estimation of informal sector activities

Key Differences:

1. Shift from factor cost to market prices: This change better reflects the actual market value of goods and services produced.

2. Updated base year: The new base year (2011-12) provides a more recent reference point for economic comparisons.

3. Improved data sources: The use of MCA21 database offers more accurate corporate sector information (e.g., IT services, e-commerce).

4. Wider coverage: Enhanced inclusion of informal sector activities (e.g., small businesses, street vendors) and financial services.

5. New methodologies: Adoption of advanced statistical techniques for data compilation and analysis.

Implications:

• The revised methodology generally resulted in higher GDP growth estimates.
• It provides a more comprehensive view of the economy, especially newer sectors.
• Improved international comparability of India’s economic data.

Conclusion: The 2015 GDP revision modernized India’s national accounting, offering a more accurate and globally comparable measure of economic activity.

Model Answer: 

India’s internal security faces complex challenges from both external state and non-state actors, necessitating a comprehensive approach to address these multidimensional threats effectively.

Multidimensional Challenges to India’s Internal Security:

1. External State Actors:
a) Cross-border terrorism: State-sponsored terrorism from neighboring countries, particularly Pakistan.
b) Territorial disputes: Border conflicts with China and Pakistan leading to military tensions.
c) Cyber warfare: State-backed cyber attacks on critical infrastructure and government systems.
d) Economic subversion: Attempts to destabilize India’s economy through various means.

2. Non-State Actors:
a) Terrorist organizations: Groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed, and Islamic State.
b) Insurgent groups: Northeast insurgencies and left-wing extremism (Naxalism).
c) Organized crime syndicates: Drug trafficking, arms smuggling, and human trafficking networks.
d) Cyber criminals: Hackers and cybercrime groups targeting individuals and organizations.

Analysis of Challenges:

1. Complexity and Interconnectedness:
• These threats often overlap and reinforce each other, creating a complex security environment.
• For example, terrorist groups may receive support from external state actors and collaborate with organized crime networks.

2. Technological Advancements:
• Rapid technological progress has enabled actors to employ sophisticated methods for attacks and propaganda.
• Cyber threats have become increasingly prevalent and difficult to counter.

3. Ideological and Social Factors:
• Radicalization and extremist ideologies continue to pose significant challenges.
• Social media and online platforms are being used for recruitment and spreading disinformation.

4. Geographical Vulnerabilities:
• India’s vast coastline and porous borders make it susceptible to infiltration and smuggling.
• Difficult terrain in certain regions hampers effective security operations.

Measures to Combat These Threats:

1. Intelligence and Surveillance:
• Strengthen intelligence gathering and analysis capabilities.
• Enhance coordination between various intelligence agencies and law enforcement.
• Utilize advanced technologies like satellite imaging and drones for border surveillance.

2. Border Management:
• Implement integrated border management systems.
• Increase deployment of security forces and technological solutions along borders.
• Enhance cooperation with neighboring countries on border security issues.

3. Counter-terrorism and Counter-insurgency:
• Develop a comprehensive national counter-terrorism strategy.
• Strengthen anti-terror laws and their implementation.
• Focus on de-radicalization programs and addressing root causes of extremism.

4. Cybersecurity:
• Establish a robust national cybersecurity framework.
• Invest in cybersecurity infrastructure and skilled personnel.
• Promote public-private partnerships for cyber defense.

5. Diplomatic and International Cooperation:
• Engage in multilateral forums to address transnational security challenges.
• Strengthen strategic partnerships with like-minded countries.
• Isolate state sponsors of terrorism through diplomatic efforts.

6. Economic and Social Development:
• Address socio-economic disparities and promote inclusive growth.
• Focus on education and skill development in vulnerable regions.
• Implement targeted development programs in conflict-affected areas.

7. Capacity Building and Modernization:
• Modernize security forces with advanced equipment and training.
• Enhance the capabilities of specialized agencies like the National Investigation Agency.
• Promote research and development in defense and security technologies.

Conclusion:
Addressing these multifaceted challenges requires a holistic approach combining security measures, diplomacy, development, and technological advancements to ensure India’s internal security.

Model Answer: 

Terrorism is a complex and multifaceted problem that has plagued the world for decades. It is a global phenomenon that affects people of all races, religions, and nationalities. Terrorism is not only a threat to peace and security but also a violation of human rights. In this answer, we will analyze the complexity and intensity of terrorism, its causes, linkages, and obnoxious nexus, and suggest measures required to eradicate this menace.

Complexity and Intensity of Terrorism:

Terrorism is a complex and ever-changing phenomenon that has evolved over time. It is not a static concept, and the definition of terrorism varies from country to country. The complexity and intensity of terrorism can be seen in the following ways:

• Terrorist groups have access to advanced weaponry and technology that makes their attacks more lethal and devastating.
• Terrorist attacks are becoming more frequent and widespread, targeting not just governments and military installations but also civilians and soft targets.
• The rise of terrorist organizations that have a global reach, such as ISIS, Al-Qaeda, and the Taliban, has made terrorism a transnational threat.
• The use of social media and the internet by terrorist organizations to spread their propaganda and recruit new members has made it easier for them to expand their reach and influence.

Causes of Terrorism:

There are several underlying causes of terrorism, including:

• Political and social grievances such as discrimination, marginalization, and injustice
• Economic deprivation and poverty
• Ideological and religious extremism
• Foreign interventions and occupation
• Failure of governments to address the root causes of terrorism and provide adequate governance and security.

Linkages and Obnoxious Nexus:

Terrorist organizations often have linkages and networks with other groups, criminal organizations, and state actors. The linkages and obnoxious nexus can be seen in the following ways:

• The use of terrorism by state actors to further their geopolitical goals, such as Pakistan’s support for terrorist organizations operating in India.
• The collaboration between terrorist organizations and criminal networks for financial gain, such as drug trafficking and money laundering.
• The support provided by some countries to terrorist organizations for strategic purposes, such as Iran’s support for Hezbollah and Hamas.
• The use of terrorism by extremist groups to promote their ideological agenda, such as the ISIS’s use of terrorism to establish a caliphate in the Middle East.

Measures to Eradicate Terrorism:

To eradicate terrorism, a multi-pronged approach is required that addresses the underlying causes and disrupts the linkages and obnoxious nexus of terrorist organizations. The measures required to eradicate terrorism include:

• Addressing the root causes of terrorism by addressing political, social, and economic grievances and providing adequate governance and security.
• Developing effective intelligence-gathering and sharing mechanisms to identify and neutralize terrorist threats before they manifest.
• Combating terrorist financing through stringent financial regulations and international cooperation.
• Building partnerships and alliances with like-minded countries to counter external threats and promote regional stability.
• Developing indigenous capabilities in areas such as cybersecurity, military technology, and defense manufacturing to reduce dependence on foreign entities.
• Creating public awareness and education campaigns to promote tolerance, human rights, and peaceful coexistence.

Conclusion:

Terrorism is a complex and multifaceted problem that requires a comprehensive approach to eradicate. It is not just a security issue but also a political, social, and economic issue that needs to be addressed. To eradicate terrorism, it is essential to address the underlying causes and disrupt the linkages and obnoxious nexus of terrorist organizations. This requires cooperation and collaboration between governments, civil society, and the private sector to create a secure and stable environment that promotes peace, prosperity, and human rights.