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The time has come to proactively further cooperation between India, Japan, the US and Australia to ensure prosperity and stability in the Indo-pacific region. Discuss. (200 W/ 12½ M)

Mentor’s Comment: The growing assertiveness of China in Indo-pacific region has led many countries to worry about. Introduction should explain about the Quad or Quadrilateral Arrangement which is a diplomatic initiative for regional coalition between great big democracies in the Indo-Pacific. Further, the main body will discuss the need for such arrangement. To counter China’s… Continue reading The time has come to proactively further cooperation between India, Japan, the US and Australia to ensure prosperity and stability in the Indo-pacific region. Discuss. (200 W/ 12½ M)

Beginning with small means, then suddenly astonishing the world by its dazzling promise, the venture of the French in India was destined to end early in humiliation and failure. Discuss (150 W/ 10 M)

Mentors Comment: This is a famous quote regarding the downfall of French East India Company in India. Their rise and downfall in Indian subcontinent were both astonishing and quick. So you have to base your answer on these lines. Introduce the French East India Company in the intro and its establishment of centers in various parts of the Indian… Continue reading Beginning with small means, then suddenly astonishing the world by its dazzling promise, the venture of the French in India was destined to end early in humiliation and failure. Discuss (150 W/ 10 M)

It is not the nature of work but the manner in which it is performed that is important. Elucidate. (150 W/ 10 M)

Model Answer: Introduction: The above statement holds a lot of importance especially for a rank and status oriented society like India. It implies that the nature of the work is secondary. What holds primacy is how it is performed. It also talks of professionalism and how it is the need of the hour if we… Continue reading It is not the nature of work but the manner in which it is performed that is important. Elucidate. (150 W/ 10 M)

The pervasiveness of climate aberrations and the associated socio-economic vulnerability are now widely recognized and experienced across the globe. Assess India’s vulnerability being diverse agro-climatic settings with various measures taken and suggest way forward. (250 W/15 M)

https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/op-ed-snap-farming-in-a-warming-world/ Model Answer: The effects of climate change are being felt by almost every individual on earth. The sixth assessment report by IPCC has established that the world has already become 1 degree warmer because of human activities causing a greater frequency of extremes and obstruction to the normal functioning of ecosystems. The world leaders… Continue reading The pervasiveness of climate aberrations and the associated socio-economic vulnerability are now widely recognized and experienced across the globe. Assess India’s vulnerability being diverse agro-climatic settings with various measures taken and suggest way forward. (250 W/15 M)

Citizenship Amendment Bill Goes Against the Basic Tenets of the Constitution? Comment. (150 W/ 10 M)

Source: https://www.epw.in/engage/article/why-the-citizenship-amendment-goes-against-the-basic-tenets-of-the-constitution   Model Answer: Citizenship is at the heart of modern nation-state. Citizenship entails rightful claims on the state/govt. and that is why it is often fiercely contested.  Citizenship  in  India  is  currently  covered  under  two  legislations:  Part  II  of  the  Constitution  of India – 1950 and the Citizenship Act – 1955. However, neither… Continue reading Citizenship Amendment Bill Goes Against the Basic Tenets of the Constitution? Comment. (150 W/ 10 M)

What are landslides and how do they occur? What are the causes of more frequent occurrence of landslides in Himalayas than in the Western Ghats? (250 W/ 15 M)

Mentors Comment: Quite a straightforward question and the demands are clearly stated. Diagram will fetch you more marks in geography related questions. So don’t hesitate to use them here. Start with the intro which will be based on the first part of the question: What are landslides and how do they occur. Now its up… Continue reading What are landslides and how do they occur? What are the causes of more frequent occurrence of landslides in Himalayas than in the Western Ghats? (250 W/ 15 M)

Ethics Case Study: You are hearing a case in court. The case is that of rash driving where a 16 year old boy has hit 3 people on road. Out of them, 1 person who was the only earning member in the family died on the spot. The boy is the son of a reputed IAS officer in the city. At the time of accident, he had come from a party and was drunk. The officer is one of your good friends. He asks you not to punish the child as this would spoil his career and it was by mistake. He requests you that this judgement will have a big impact on the career of his son. What are the ethical conflicts in the case? What are the various options before you? Discuss them with their merits and demerits. Are moral and ethical values of parents and the upbringing of children by them to be held responsible in such cases? (200 W/ 12½ M)

Mentor’s Comment: The case study taken from Delhi BMW hit and run incident where man gets two year jail term. Read details from the below link. http://indianexpress.com/article/india/delhi-bmw-hit-and-run-man-gets-two-year-jail-term-4752538/   Model Answer: The case involves dilemma for the judge to give judgement where the minor if punished may not get an opportunity to rectify his mistake and… Continue reading Ethics Case Study: You are hearing a case in court. The case is that of rash driving where a 16 year old boy has hit 3 people on road. Out of them, 1 person who was the only earning member in the family died on the spot. The boy is the son of a reputed IAS officer in the city. At the time of accident, he had come from a party and was drunk. The officer is one of your good friends. He asks you not to punish the child as this would spoil his career and it was by mistake. He requests you that this judgement will have a big impact on the career of his son. What are the ethical conflicts in the case? What are the various options before you? Discuss them with their merits and demerits. Are moral and ethical values of parents and the upbringing of children by them to be held responsible in such cases? (200 W/ 12½ M)

Changing regulations every three hours makes life miserable for MSMEs and breeds informality (a sense of humour about the rule of law). Critically comment in the light of recent policy measures. (150 W/ 10 M)

Source: https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/op-ed-snap-changing-the-indian-state-from-bully-to-ally/ Model Answer: The MSME sector in India continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience in the face of trialing global and domestic economic circumstances. The sector has sustained an annual growth rate of over 10% for the past few years. With its agility and dynamism, the sector has shown admirable innovativeness and adaptability to survive… Continue reading Changing regulations every three hours makes life miserable for MSMEs and breeds informality (a sense of humour about the rule of law). Critically comment in the light of recent policy measures. (150 W/ 10 M)

A self-confident policy anchored in a clear understanding of national interest goes far in comparison to knee-jerk reactions occasioned by ego issues. In the light of the above statement critically analyse India’s Maldives policy in recent times? (250 W/15 M)

Mentor’s Comment: India being Maldives immediate neighbour has ensured security, infrastructure and finance for growth. Introduction should explain the general relation between both the countries. Further, mention about the issues which India witnesses in bilateral relation as a threat. Islamist radicalization, Role of China etc. Next, mention way forward, what needs to be done in… Continue reading A self-confident policy anchored in a clear understanding of national interest goes far in comparison to knee-jerk reactions occasioned by ego issues. In the light of the above statement critically analyse India’s Maldives policy in recent times? (250 W/15 M)

Till age old stigma exists within the majority sections of the Indian society, where women are treated with the patriarchal mindset, crime against women will continue in India? Comment. (200 W/ 12½ M)

Mentor’s Comment: Since ancient women are treated as object and continues to be the victim of violence in this male dominated society. The introduction should explain in general about the status of women in society and their potential to contribute in contrary. Further, explain about the role of patriarchy in crimes against women. Violent crimes… Continue reading Till age old stigma exists within the majority sections of the Indian society, where women are treated with the patriarchal mindset, crime against women will continue in India? Comment. (200 W/ 12½ M)

Ethics Case Study: India looses too many lives due to heavy floods and other natural disasters every year. The nature and cause of floods across different parts of the states are different. In some areas flood situation is worsened due to high level of siltation and rising river bed. Poor maintenance and resultant failure of embankments and erosional activities are other contributing factors leading to recurrence of floods causing high magnitude of losses and damages. Floods in urban areas such as Guwahati are a result of yet another set of contributing factors such as inadequate urban drainage, poor maintenance of drains and improper land use planning. A single flood event cannot be attributed to climate change but shifting rainfall pattern is also influencing the characteristics of the floods. In such a context, disaster risk reduction efforts to reduce flood losses require due attention to not only the direct causes but also the social milieu, economic diaspora, natural environment, ethical and cultural practices etc. These processes are complex in nature owing to historical background and the present processes of development and urbanization. Culture influences to a large extent affect the implementation of strategies and policies. You have been appointed as a District Administrator tasked with disaster risk reduction. You are new to this place unknown to cultural and traditional practices. Everything from rescue to rehabilitation is dependent on you. 1. What are the courses do you think will be suitable for such areas and how you are going to deal with the situation? Justify your actions. 2. What are the ethical impediments you are likely to face in dealing with the people affected by floods?

Mentor’s Comment: The case study is taken from the floods situation in Assam and West Bengal which the trend shows is like an annual phenomena. This involves the ethical principles like Human values, moral and political attitude, integrity, public service, empathy, sympathy and fair treatment etc. The case requires you to assess the course of… Continue reading Ethics Case Study: India looses too many lives due to heavy floods and other natural disasters every year. The nature and cause of floods across different parts of the states are different. In some areas flood situation is worsened due to high level of siltation and rising river bed. Poor maintenance and resultant failure of embankments and erosional activities are other contributing factors leading to recurrence of floods causing high magnitude of losses and damages. Floods in urban areas such as Guwahati are a result of yet another set of contributing factors such as inadequate urban drainage, poor maintenance of drains and improper land use planning. A single flood event cannot be attributed to climate change but shifting rainfall pattern is also influencing the characteristics of the floods. In such a context, disaster risk reduction efforts to reduce flood losses require due attention to not only the direct causes but also the social milieu, economic diaspora, natural environment, ethical and cultural practices etc. These processes are complex in nature owing to historical background and the present processes of development and urbanization. Culture influences to a large extent affect the implementation of strategies and policies. You have been appointed as a District Administrator tasked with disaster risk reduction. You are new to this place unknown to cultural and traditional practices. Everything from rescue to rehabilitation is dependent on you. 1. What are the courses do you think will be suitable for such areas and how you are going to deal with the situation? Justify your actions. 2. What are the ethical impediments you are likely to face in dealing with the people affected by floods?

After 53 years, the Border Security Force is facing myriad challenges, ranging from the reassessment of operational philosophy and a personnel management dilemma to an acute disconnect of the leadership with ground realities. Examine. (200 W// 12½ M)

Source: https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/op-ed-snap-to-keep-india-safe-bsf-must-get-leaders-from-its-own-ranks-not-the-ips/ Model Answer: The Border Security Force, the world’s largest border guarding force, recently celebrated its 54th Raising Day. The Border Security Force is facing myriad challenges, ranging from the reassessment of operational philosophy and a personnel management dilemma to an acute disconnect of the leadership with ground realities. Border Security Force: BSF is… Continue reading After 53 years, the Border Security Force is facing myriad challenges, ranging from the reassessment of operational philosophy and a personnel management dilemma to an acute disconnect of the leadership with ground realities. Examine. (200 W// 12½ M)

In the wake of perceived failure of public institutions in India, many analysts have described the situation as ‘an emergency of Indian constitutionalism’. Do you agree with such an assessment? (250 W/ 15 M)

Mentor’s Comment: This question is very analytical in nature. It wants you to assess whether the public institutions are on a decline.  Introduce the answer in such a manner to indicate that you have understood the broader theme. In the body talk about some arguments raised on the legitimacy of major pillars of democracy and… Continue reading In the wake of perceived failure of public institutions in India, many analysts have described the situation as ‘an emergency of Indian constitutionalism’. Do you agree with such an assessment? (250 W/ 15 M)

Greek and Roman literary account proved extremely useful in writing the history of Ancient India? Discuss. (200 W 12 ½ M)

Mentor’s Comment: Start the answer by mentioning 2-3 lines about importance of literary accounts in writing history of Ancient India.After that discuss the important Greek and Roman works which deals with Ancient Indian history and how they help in writing the history of Ancient India. You also have to mention how in some ways their… Continue reading Greek and Roman literary account proved extremely useful in writing the history of Ancient India? Discuss. (200 W 12 ½ M)

He who has not forgiven an enemy has not yet tasted one of the most sublime enjoyments of life. – ‘Johann K. Lavatu’ (10 marks 150 words)

Model Answer: Forgiveness is a gift that is not expected from people having narrower view. It is a larger gift expected from great people. It is the quality that enables an individual to live with peace, contentment and happiness. A person who forgives his enemy is a great man to give chance to his enemy.… Continue reading He who has not forgiven an enemy has not yet tasted one of the most sublime enjoyments of life. – ‘Johann K. Lavatu’ (10 marks 150 words)

What is Bioplastic? Examine whether use of bioplastic is safe in comparison to petroleum based plastic or are likely to contribute more in global greenhouse gas emission if its use increases? (150 W /10 M)

Source: Urban planning can change the future of cities to happy cities Model Answer: Bioplastics are developed as an alternative to the petroleum-based plastics. Increased use of petroleum-based plastics is associated with producing more greenhouse gases. Recent reports have suggested that use of Bioplastics might not be safe. Bioplastics: Bioplastics are plastics derived from renewable… Continue reading What is Bioplastic? Examine whether use of bioplastic is safe in comparison to petroleum based plastic or are likely to contribute more in global greenhouse gas emission if its use increases? (150 W /10 M)

Critically analyse key features of proposal for enactment of Dam Safety Bill – 2018. (150 W/ 10 M)

Source: http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=179939 Model Answer: There are more than 5200 big dams in India and about 450 dams are being constructed. In addition, there are medium and tens of thousands of dams. Due to lack of legal and institutional arrangements for dam protection in India, the dam safety issue is a matter of concern. Unprotected dams… Continue reading Critically analyse key features of proposal for enactment of Dam Safety Bill – 2018. (150 W/ 10 M)

India’s geology encompasses the entire geological history of the earth. Elaborate. What is the link between India’s mineral resource distribution and her geological structure? (10 Marks)

Mentor’s Comment: Introduction should explain about geological period. A geological period is one of several subdivisions of geologic time enabling cross-referencing of rocks and geologic events from place to place. These periods form elements of a hierarchy of divisions into which geologists have split the Earth’s history. Relate them to India as India is a land of diversity in its physiographic condition and various landforms… Continue reading India’s geology encompasses the entire geological history of the earth. Elaborate. What is the link between India’s mineral resource distribution and her geological structure? (10 Marks)

Be the Servant of all, and do not try in the least to govern other. Nobody will come to help you if you will put yourself forward as a leader. Kill self first, if you want to lead. – ‘Swami Vivekananda’ (150 W/ 10 M)

Mentor’s Comment: The statement is straight forward which says what a good leader should follow while leading. Introduction should explain about the leaders and general quality which they should posses. Further talk in the context of statement that in order to lead the leader should not move far ahead rather should move together with the… Continue reading Be the Servant of all, and do not try in the least to govern other. Nobody will come to help you if you will put yourself forward as a leader. Kill self first, if you want to lead. – ‘Swami Vivekananda’ (150 W/ 10 M)

As climate is changing, creating resilient food systems has become the need of the hour. How can Zero budget natural farming help in this regard? (200 W 12½ M)

Mentor’s Comment: Introduction should explain about resilient food system and its features. Like it can adapt and transform themselves in such as way that no matter what the future looks like, they continue producing enough healthy food without damaging the environment and contributing to the livelihood generation. Further, it should mention the effects of climate… Continue reading As climate is changing, creating resilient food systems has become the need of the hour. How can Zero budget natural farming help in this regard? (200 W 12½ M)

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