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  • Preserving Rajasthan’s Semal Trees 

    Why in the News?

    Despite its ecological importance, rampant harvesting of Semal Trees for bonfires poses a grave threat to their existence, undermining biodiversity and cultural heritage alike.

    About Semal/ Silk Cotton Trees

    • The Semal tree, scientifically known as Bombax ceiba, is a deciduous tropical tree.
    • It is native to India, South-East Asia, and Northern Australia.
    • It can grow up to 60 meters tall. It has a distinctive straight trunk, often with spiky thorns, and a wide, spreading canopy.
    • It produces vivid red flowers that are large and attractive, making it quite conspicuous when in bloom.
    • The fruit of the Semal tree is a capsule that contains several seeds surrounded by a fibrous, cotton-like substance which is wind-dispersed.

    Commercial Uses

    • The fibers extracted from the fruit, known as kapok, are used for stuffing pillows, mattresses, and life jackets due to their buoyancy and insulating properties.
    • The wood is soft and is often used for making paper, while in rural areas, it is used as fuelwood and for making cheap furniture.

    Ecological Significance

    • Members of tribal communities consume the tree’s reddish root for food during the monsoons.
    • Larvae of the moth Bucculatrix crateracma feed on its leaves.
    • The golden-crowned sparrow weaves the lining of its nests with white cotton from its seeds.

    Felling of a Semal Tree: Which laws are violated?

    1. Rajasthan Forest Act 1953: This act prohibits various activities in reserved forests without prior permission. Specifically, it bars any unauthorized person from felling, uprooting, damaging, or otherwise harming trees. Violating these prohibitions can lead to penalties including imprisonment, fines, or both, depending on the severity of the offence. Semal tree is not recorded in the state’s list of ‘rare, threatened, and endangered’ species. (Trees on this list enjoy priority conservation efforts.) (Indian Kanoon)​
    2. Forest (Conservation) Act 1980: This act is more comprehensive at the national level and was enacted to provide for the conservation of forests and to regulate deforestation. It requires that any non-forest use of forest land must have prior approval from the Central Government. This includes clearances for felling trees, which are only granted under specific conditions that ensure the conservation and sustainable use of forest resources.​ (UNEPLawEnvAssistantPlat)​

    PYQ:

    [2015] In India, in which one of the following types of forests is teak a dominant tree species?

    (a) Tropical moist deciduous forest

    (b) Tropical rainforest

    (c) Tropical thorn scrub forest

    (d) Temperate forest with grasslands

  • India, Iran sign 10-year contract for Chabahar Port Operation

    Why in the news?

    • India and Iran signed a 10-year agreement for the operation of the Chabahar port, marking a significant milestone in their cooperation.

    Back2Basics: Chabahar Port

    • The port is located in southeastern Iran in the Sistan-Baluchistan province, on the Gulf of Oman and at the mouth of the Strait of Hormuz.
    • It is called the “Golden Gate” to Central Asian land-locked countries of Afghanistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan.
    • It serves as Iran’s only oceanic port and consists of two separate ports named Shahid Kalantari and Shahid Beheshti.
    • It is only about 170 km west of the Gwadar port if Pakistan.
      • The development of Chabahar port was initiated by India with a MoU in 2015 and executed in 2016 during PM Narendra Modi’s visit to Iran.

    About the Agreement

    The contract, signed between Indian Ports Global Ltd. (IPGL) and Port and Maritime Organisation (PMO) of Iran, involves substantial investment and development initiatives.

    • IPGL will invest approximately $120 million in equipping the Shahid-Behesti terminal, enhancing the port’s efficiency and capacity.
    • India has extended a credit window of $250 million for mutually identified projects aimed at improving Chabahar-related infrastructure, emphasizing its commitment to regional development.

    Strategic Importance of Chabahar Port to India

    • Chabahar port will boost India’s access to Iran, the key gateway to the International North-South Transport Corridor that has sea, rail and road routes between India, Russia, Iran, Europe and Central Asia.
    • Chabahar port will be beneficial to India in countering Chinese presence in the Arabian Sea which China is trying to ensure by helping Pakistan develop the Gwadar port.
    • India can bypass Pakistan in transporting goods to Afghanistan.

    Economic Significance

    • Chabahar Port is at an important point on the Arabian Sea, with easy access from India’s west coast.
    • Kandla port in Gujarat is the closest port at 550 nautical miles, while the distance between Chabahar and Mumbai is 786 nautical miles.
    • Since 2019, the port has handled more than 80,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) of container traffic and more than 8 million tonnes of bulk and general cargo.
    • The port also offers an alternative route from the Strait of Hormuz for cargo traffic between Central Asian countries and Afghanistan.

    PYQ:

    [2017] What is the importance of developing Chabahar Port by India?

    (a) India’s trade with African countries will enormously increase.

    (b) India’s relations with oil-producing Arab countries will be strengthened.

    (c) India will not depend on Pakistan to access Afghanistan and Central Asia.

    (d) Pakistan will facilitate and protect the gas pipeline installation between Iraq and India.

  • [pib] Exercise Shakti

    Why in the news?

    The 7th edition of the India-France Joint Military Exercise SHAKTI begins at Umroi, Meghalaya, signalling the start of a biennial training event aimed at enhancing bilateral military cooperation.

    About Exercise Shakti

    • Shakti Exercise is a joint military exercise between the armies of India and France.
    • It is a biennial training event conducted alternatively in India and France
    • It started in 2011, and since then, the armies of both countries have undertaken it to promote defence cooperation and interoperability.
    • Objectives:
    1. To bolster joint military capabilities for multi-domain operations in a sub-conventional scenario under Chapter VII of the United Nations Mandate.
    2. To operate in semi-urban and mountainous terrain, focusing on achieving a high degree of physical fitness and refining tactical drills.

    Major Defence Exercise between India and France:

    • Garuda: It is the joint air exercise between the Indian Air Force and the French Air and Space Force.
    • Varuna: It is the joint naval exercise between the Indian Navy and the French Navy.
    • Desert Knight-21: It was a bilateral air exercise conducted by the Indian Air Force and the French Air and Space Force at Air Force Station Jodhpur from January 20-24, 2021. It was unique as it involved the fielding of Rafale aircraft by both sides.
    • FRINJEX: It was the maiden joint military exercise between the Indian Army and the French Army conducted at Pangode Military Station, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala on March 7-8, 2023.

     

    Tap to read more about:

    Various Defence Exercises in News

  • [pib] Ramcharitmanas, Panchatantra, and Sahrdayaloka-Locana enter ‘UNESCO’s Memory of the World Asia-Pacific regional register’

    Why in the news?

    The Ramcharitmanas, Panchatantra and Sahrdayaloka-Locana have been included in ‘UNESCO’s Memory of the World Asia-Pacific regional register’.

    About UNESCO’s ‘Memory of the World (MOW) Asia-Pacific regional register’

    Details
    History and Establishment Initiated in 1992 by UNESCO.

    Asia-Pacific Regional Committee (MOWCAP) was set up in 1998.
    Parent Organization Overseen by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization).
    Objective To safeguard, preserve, facilitate access to, and increase awareness of documentary heritage. Focuses specifically on the Asia-Pacific region.
    Examples of Inscribed Items Includes items like Japan’s “Sugihara’s Visas for Life”, Australia’s “Mabo Case Manuscripts”, and Vietnam’s “Ba Chuc Massacre Archives”.
    Impact and Outreach Supports preservation, digitization, accessibility of documents; provides grants and organizes workshops, meetings, and exhibitions to promote knowledge sharing. 
    Reference

    About the Texts

    • Ramcharitmanas:

    • Written by Tulsidas in the 16th century, the Ramcharitmanas is an epic poem in Awadhi, a dialect of Hindi, and is a retelling of the Sanskrit epic Ramayana.
    • It narrates the life of Lord Rama, his virtues, the ideals of Dharma, and his reign during Ram Rajya.
    • Hanuman Chalisa is a combination of 40 verses from the same epic.

    • Panchatantra:

    • The Panchatantra is a collection of ancient Indian animal fables that dates back to at least the 3rd century BCE. 
    • Originally written in Sanskrit by Vishnu Sharma.
    • Its stories are crafted as simple yet vibrant narratives that aim to impart practical life lessons through the interactions of anthropomorphized animals.

    • Sahrdayaloka-Locana

    • The Sahrdayaloka-Locana is a Sanskrit treatise on poetics written by Jagannatha Paṇḍitaraja in the 17th century.
    • It is considered one of the most important works of Sanskrit literary criticism.
    • The text discusses the concept of “Sahrdaya“, which refers to a sensitive or discerning reader or critic.

     

    PYQ:

    [2016] With reference to the cultural history of India, the memorising of chronicles, dynastic histories and epic tales was the profession of who among the following?

    (a) Shramana

    (b) Parivraajaka

    (c) Agrahaarika

    (d) Maagadha
  • COMPLETE UPSC 2025 Preparation in FIRST ATTEMPT using Original Content, Rigourous Mentorship & Outcome-Driven Programs

    COMPLETE UPSC 2025 Preparation in FIRST ATTEMPT using Original Content, Rigourous Mentorship & Outcome-Driven Programs

    Between 2021-23, we connected with over 15,000+ IAS aspirants via our Samanvaya (1 on 1 mentoring) outreach program.

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  • UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Freedom Struggle

    UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Freedom Struggle

    We will be going through the UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Freedom Struggle. The official UPSC Syllabus reads – Freedom Struggle-various stages, important contributors/ contributions from different parts of the country.

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    UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Freedom Struggle – various stages, important contributors/ contributions from different parts of the country – Questions from 2013-2023

    QuestionSubjectYearMarksSub-theme
    To what extent did the role of the Moderates prepare a base for the wider freedom movement? Comment. (250 words)Freedom Struggle202115Moderates- role in freedom movement and their limitations
    Bring out the constructive programmes of Mahatma Gandhi during Non-Cooperation Movement and Civil Disobedience Movement. (250 words)Freedom Struggle202115Constructive programme of Gandhi- During NCM and CDM
    Since the decade of the 1920s, the national movement acquired various ideological strands and thereby expanded its social base. Discuss.Freedom Struggle202015Ideological strands and their impact on the national movement during 1920s
    Examine the linkages between 19th centuries ‘Indian Renaissance’ and the emergence of national identity.Freedom Struggle201910Emergence of National Identity- Due to Renaissance and other reasons as well
    Many voices had strengthened and enriched the nationalist movement during the Gandhian phase. Elaborate.Freedom Struggle201915Gandhian phase- Various sections and their voices which strengthened national movement
    Assess the role of British imperial power in complicating the process of transfer of power during the 1940s.Freedom Struggle201915Various British Proposals for power transfer in 1940s
    Throw light on the significance of the thoughts of Mahatma Gandhi in the present times.Freedom Struggle201810Present day significance of Gandhi’s thoughts
    Why did the ‘Moderates’ fail to carry conviction with the nation about their proclaimed ideology and political goals by the end of the nineteenth century?Freedom Struggle201710Moderates- their contributions and failures
    Examine how the decline of traditional artisanal industry in colonial India crippled the rural economy.Freedom Struggle201715Reasons for decline in traditional artisanal industry and rural economy
    The women’s questions arose in modern India as a part of the 19th century social reform movement. What were the major issues and debates concerning women in that period?Freedom Struggle201715Women’s issues and debates during social reform movement
    Discuss the role of women in the freedom struggle especially during the Gandhian phase.Freedom Struggle201612.5Women’s role in freedom struggle
    It would have been difficult for the Constituent Assembly to complete its historic task of drafting the Constitution for Independent India in just three years but for the experience gained with the Government of India Act, 1935. Discuss.Freedom Struggle201512.5GoI Act, 1935- Features and Provisions of it adopted in Indian Constitution
    In what ways did the naval mutiny prove to be the last nail in the coffin of British colonial aspirations in India?Freedom Struggle201410Naval Mutiny- Reasons and Impact on British
    In many ways, Lord Dalhousie was the founder of modern India. Elaborate.Freedom Struggle201310Work of Lord Dalhousie in various sector
    UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Freedom Struggle 2013-2023

    Read More – Complete UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs (2013-2023)

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  • UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Modern History

    UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Modern History

    We will be going through the UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Modern History. The official UPSC Syllabus reads – Modern Indian History-Mid-18th century – Present (significant events, personalities, issues)

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    UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Modern Indian History – Mid-18th century – Present (significant events, personalities, issues)

    QuestionSubjectYearMarksSub-theme
    What was the difference between Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore in their approach towards education and nationalism?Modern History202310Gandhi and Tagore- Difference in approach towards education and Nationalism
    How did the colonial rule affect the tribals in India and what was the tribal response to the colonial oppression?Modern History202315Impact of colonial rule on Tribes and tribal response
    Why did the armies of the British East India Company – mostly comprising of Indian soldiers-win consistently against the more numerous and better equipped armies of the then Indian rulers ? Give reasons.Modern History202210Reasons behind the supremacy power of British armies against the Indian rulers
    Why was there a sudden spurt in famines in colonial India since the mid-eighteenth century ? Give reasons.Modern History202210Reasons of famines in colonial India
    Trace the rise and growth of socio-religious reform movements with special reference to Young Bengal and Brahmo Samaj.Modern History202110Socio-religious reform movements- Rise and growth, Young Bengal and Brahmo Samaj
    Evaluate the policies of Lord Curzon and their long term implications on the national movement.Modern History202010Lord Curzon- his policies and long term implication on national movement
    The 1857 Uprising was the culmination the recurrent big and small local rebellions that had occurred in the preceding hundred years of British rule. Elucidate.Modern History201910Major factors and local rebellions that led to the 1857 uprising
    Clarify how mid-eighteenth century India was beset with the spectre of a fragmented polity.Modern History201710Factors that played role in fragmented polity during 1750s
    Highlight the importance of the new objectives that got added to the vision of Indian independence since twenties of the last century.Modern History201715Factors that could be considered to play a potent role in fragmented polity were
    Explain how the Uprising of 1857 constitutes an important watershed in the evolution of British policies towards colonial India.Modern History201612.5Uprising of 1857- Changes in British policies after that
    Highlight the differences in the approach of Subhash Chandra Bose and Mahatma Gandhi in the struggle for freedom.Modern History201612.5Gandhi and Bose- Difference in Approach in freedom struggle
    How different would have been the achievement of Indian independence without Mahatma Gandhi? Discuss.Modern History201512.5Independence without Gandhi
    Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, despite having divergent approaches and strategies, had a common goal of amelioration of the downtrodden. Elucidate.Modern History201512.5Gandhi and Ambedkar- Divergent and common approaches
    The third battle of Panipat was fought in 1761. Why were so many empire-shaking battles fought at Panipat?Modern History201410Third battle of Panipat; Reason for battles fought at panipat
    Examine critically the various facets of economic policies of the British in India from mid-eighteenth century till independence.Modern History201410British economic policies in India
    Defying the barriers of age, gender and religion, the Indian women became the torch bearer during the struggle for freedom in India. Discuss.Modern History201310Role of Indian women in freedom struggle
    Several foreigners made India their homeland and participated in various movements. Analyze their role in the Indian struggle for freedom.Modern History201310Foreigners role in Indian freedom struggle
    UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Modern History

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  • UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Indian Culture

    UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Indian Culture

    We will be going through the UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Indian Culture. The official UPSC Syllabus reads – Indian Culture – Salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times.

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    QuestionSubjectYearMarksSub-theme
    Explain the role of geographical factors towards the development of Ancient India.Art and Culture202310Geographical factors in Ancient India development
    What are the main features of Vedic society and religion? Do you think some of the features are still prevailing in Indian society?Art and Culture202315Vedic society and religion- Main features and elements of continuity
    What were the major technological changes introduced during the Sultanate period? How did those technological changes influence the Indian society?Art and Culture202315Sultanate period- Major technological changes and their influence on Indian society
    How will you explain that medieval Indian temple sculptures represent the social life of those days?Art and Culture202210Temple sculptures of medieval India
    Discuss the main contributions of Gupta period and Chola period to Indian heritage and culture.Art and Culture202215Gupta and chola- Contribution to Indian heritage and culture
    Discuss the significance of the lion and bull figures in Indian mythology, art and architecture.Art and Culture202215Lion and bull figures- Significance in mythology, art and architecture
    Evaluate the nature of the Bhakti literature and its contribution to Indian culture. Art and Culture202110Bhakti literature- Nature and contribution to Indian culture
    The rock-cut architecture represents one of the most important sources of our knowledge of early Indian art and history. Discuss. Art and Culture202010Rock-cut architecture- Source of Indian Art and history
    Pala period is the most significant phase in the history of Buddhism in India. Enumerate. Art and Culture202010Pala period- Contribution in promoting Buddhism
    Indian philosophy and tradition played a significant role in conceiving and shaping the monuments and their art in India. Discuss.Art and Culture202015Impact of Indian Philosophy- In Ancient, Medieval and modern India
    Persian literary sources of medieval India reflect the spirit of the age. Comment.Art and Culture202015Persian literary sources of medieval India
    Highlight the Central Asian and Greco -Bactrian elements in Gandhara art.Art and Culture201910Central Asian and Greco -Bactrian elements in Gandhara art
    Do we have cultural pockets of small India all over the nation? Elaborate with examples.(15m,250 words)Art and Culture201915cultural pockets of small India across the nation
    Safeguarding the Indian art heritage is the need of the moment. Discuss.Art and Culture201810Indian art heritage- Need to safeguard and government steps
    Assess the importance of the accounts of the Chinese and Arab travellers in the reconstruction of the history of India.Art and Culture201810Chinese and Arab travellers’ account
    The Bhakti movement received a remarkable re-orientation with the advent of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. Discuss.Art and Culture201815Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu and Bhakti movement
    How do you justify the view that the level of excellence of Gupta numismatic art is not at all noticeable in later times?Art and Culture201710Gupta numismatic art- comparison with later times
    Early Buddhist Stupa-art, while depicting folk motifs and narratives successfully expounds Buddhist ideals. Elucidate.Art and Culture201612.5Early Buddhist Stupa-art
    Krishnadeva Raya, the King of Vijayanagar, was not only an accomplished scholar himself but was also a great patron of learning and literature. Discuss.Art and Culture201612.5Krishnadeva Raya- As Eminent scholar and as great patron of learning and literature
    The ancient civilization in Indian sub-continent differed from those of Egypt, Mesopotamia and Greece in that its culture and traditions have been preserved without a breakdown to the present day. Comment.Art and Culture201512.5Reasons for continuity of elements of culture and traditions of ancient civilization, unlike in Egypt, Mesopotamia and Greece
    Mesolithic rock cut architecture of India not only reflects the cultural life of the times but also a tine aesthetic sense comparable to modern painting. Critically evaluate this comment.Art and Culture201512.5Mesolithic rock cut architecture- Reflecting cultural life of that times and comparable to modern painting
    Gandhara sculpture owed as much to the Romans as to the Greeks. Explain.Art and Culture201410Roman and Greeks element in Gandhara sculpture
    Sufis and medieval mystic saints failed to modify either the religious ideas and practices or the outward structure of Hindu/Muslim societies to any appreciable extent. Comment.Art and Culture201410Challenges faced by Sufis and medieval mystic saints
    Though not very useful from the point of view of a connected political history of South India, the Sangam literature portrays the social and economic conditions of its time with remarkable vividness. Comment.Art and Culture201310(Economic) and (Social) life of south India portrayed by (Sangam literature)
    Chola architecture represents a high watermark in the evolution of temple architecture. Discuss.Art and Culture201310Evolution of temple architecture by Cholas
    Taxila university was one of the oldest universities of the world with which were associated a number of renowned learned personalities of different disciplines. Its strategic location caused its fame to flourish, but unlike Nalanda, it is not considered as a university in the modern sense. Discuss.Art and Culture201410Taxila University- its renowned disciples and comparison with Nalanda
    To what extent has the urban planning and culture of the Indus Valley Civilization provided inputs to the present day urbanization? Discuss.Art and Culture201410Indus valley civilization- Urban planning & culture and element of continuity in present day Urbanization
    Discuss the Tandava dance as recorded in the early Indian inscriptions.Art and Culture201310Tandava dance

    Read More – Complete UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs (2013-2023)

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  • UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – GS I-IV (2013-2023)

    UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – GS I-IV (2013-2023)

    A lot of toppers this year talked about the significance of PYQs. Generally, what we go after are PYQ Booklets from the Market, which are either erroneous (wrong questions tagged under wrong syllabus headings), or outdated – only subject-wise (All questions from History, Polity, Internal Security, that too till 2021/22).

    We are providing you not only Topic-Wise, but Sub-theme wise PYQs of UPSC Mains from 2013-2023. This will help you understand the exact sub-themes are having been repeated, and make your preparation more focussed.

    A lot of toppers this year talked about the significance of PYQs. Generally, what we go after are PYQ Booklets from the Market, which are either erroneous (wrong questions tagged under wrong syllabus headings), or outdated – only subject-wise (All questions from History, Polity, Internal Security, that too till 2021/22).

    We are providing you not only Topic-Wise, but Sub-theme wise PYQs of UPSC Mains from 2013-2023. This will help you understand the exact sub-themes are having been repeated, and make your preparation more focussed.

    Before starting by yourself for Mains, understand the process. Connect 1:1 with Arvind Sir

    Talk to our Mentor

    UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – GS 1

    1. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Indian Culture-Salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times.
    2. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Modern Indian History-Mid-18th century – Present (significant events, personalities, issues).
    3. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Freedom Struggle-various stages, important contributors/ contributions from different parts of the country.
    4. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Post-Independence-consolidation and reorganisation within country.
    5. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – History of the world will include events from 18th century such as industrial revolution, world wars, redrawal of national boundaries, colonization, decolonization, political philosophies like communism, capitalism, socialism etc.— their forms and effect on the society.
    6. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Salient Features of Indian Society and Diversity of India
    7. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Role of women and women’s organization, population and associated issues, poverty and developmental issues.
    8. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Urbanisation: problems and remedies
    9. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Globalisation and its effects on Indian society
    10. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Social empowerment, communalism, regionalism & secularism
    11. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Salient Features of World Physical Geography
    12. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Distribution of key Natural Resources (world, South Asia and Indian subcontinent)
    13. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Factors responsible for the location of primary, secondary, and tertiary sector industries in various parts of the world (including India)
    14. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc.
    15. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Geographical features and their location-changes in critical geographical features (including water-bodies and ice-caps) and in flora and fauna and the effects of such changes.

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    UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – GS 2

    1. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Indian Constitution-Historical underpinnings & evolution; Features, amendments, significant provisions, basic structure of Constitution
    2. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Functions & responsibilities of the Union and the States; issues and challenges of federal structure
    3. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Separation of Powers between different organs, dispute redressal mechanisms and institutions
    4. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein
    5. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Comparison of Indian constitutional scheme with other countries
    6. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Parliament and State Legislatures (structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges; issues therein)
    7. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Structure, organization and functioning of the Executive and the Judiciary; Ministries and Departments of the Government; pressure groups and formal/informal associations and their role in the Polity
    8. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Salient features of the Representation of People’s Act.
    9. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Appointment to various Constitutional posts; Constitutional Bodies (powers, functions and responsibilities); Statutory, Regulatory and Quasi-judicial bodies
    10. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Appointment to various Constitutional posts; Constitutional Bodies (powers, functions and responsibilities); Statutory, Regulatory and Quasi-judicial bodies
    11. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Government Policies & Interventions for development of various sectors (issues in their design, implementation)
    12. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Development processes and the development industry; the role of NGOs, SHGs, various groups and associations, donors, charities, institutional and other stakeholders.
    13. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes; mechanisms, laws, institutions and Bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections.
    14. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/ Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources.
    15. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Issues relating to poverty and hunger
    16. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Transaparency and accountability (institutional and other measures); Citizens Charter, E-Governance (applications, models, successes, limitations, potential)
    17. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Role of Civil Services in a democracy.
    18. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – India and its neighborhood- relations.
    19. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.
    20. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora.
    21. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate.

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    UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – GS 3

    1. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Indian Economy (issues re: planning, mobilisation of resources, growth, development, employment);
    2. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Inclusive growth and issues arising from it.
    3. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Government Budgeting
    4. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Major Crops – Cropping patterns in various parts of the country
    5. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Different types of irrigation and irrigation systems
    6. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Storage, transport and marketing of Agricultural produce and issues and related constraints
    7. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – E- technology in the aid of farmers
    8. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies and MSP; PDS (objectives, functioning, limitations, revamping, issues of buffer stocks & food security), Technology Missions
    9. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Economics of Animal-Rearing
    10. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Food processing and related industries in India (scope & significance, location, upstream-downstream requirements, supply chain management);
    11. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Land Reforms in India
    12. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Effects of Liberalisation on the economy; Changes in Industrial policy & their effects on industrial growth
    13. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Infrastructure (energy, ports, roads, airports, railways); Investment models
    14. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life
    15. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Achievements of Indians in S&T; Indigenisation of technology & developing new technology
    16. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, robotics, nano-technology, bio-technology and issues relating to intellectual property rights
    17. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment
    18. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Disaster and Disaster Management
    19. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Linkages between Development & spread of Extremism
    20. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Role of external state and non-state actors in creating challenges to internal security.
    21. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Challenges to internal security through communication networks, role of media and social networking sites in internal security challenges, basics of cyber security; money-laundering and its prevention.
    22. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Security challenges and their management in border areas – linkages of organized crime with terrorism.
    23. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Various Security forces and agencies and their mandate.

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    UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – GS 4

    1. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Ethics and Human Interface: Essence, Determinants and Consequences of Ethics in Human Actions; Dimensions of Ethics; Ethics – in Private and Public Relationships.
    2. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Human Values: Lessons from the Lives and Teachings of Great Leaders, Reformers and Administrators; Role of family society and educational institutions in inculcating values.
    3. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Attitude: Content, Structure, Function; its Influence and Relation with Thought and Behaviour; Moral and Political Attitudes; Social Influence and Persuasion.
    4. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Emotional intelligence-concepts, and their utilities and application in administration and governance.
    5. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Contributions of Moral Thinkers and Philosophers from India and World.
    6. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Aptitude and Foundational Values for Civil Service, Integrity, Impartiality and Non-partisanship, Objectivity, Dedication to Public Service, Empathy, Tolerance and compassion towards weaker-sections.
    7. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Public/Civil Service Values and Ethics in Public Administration: Status and Problems; Ethical Concerns and Dilemmas in Government and Private Institutions; Laws, Rules, Regulations and Conscience as Sources of Ethical Guidance; Accountability and Ethical Governance; Strengthening of Ethical and Moral Values in Governance; ethical Issues in International Relations and Funding; Corporate Governance.
    8. UPSC Mains Topic-Wise PYQs – Probity in Governance: Concept of Public Service; Philosophical Basis of Governance and Probity; Information Sharing and Transparency in Government, Right to information; Codes of Ethics, Codes of Conduct, Citizen’s Charters, Work Culture, Quality of Service Delivery, utilization of Public Funds, Challenges of Corruption.

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  • Number of children has more to do with development than religion

    Why in the News? 

    Once again, the Muslim population has become a point of discussion. Last month, PM Narendra Modi referred Muslims in India, suggesting they have a higher birth rate.

    Trends of Muslim Population as per Data Point (NFHS-5 2019-21) published on April 23:

    • Population Trends: The Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister noted a Muslims in the total population increased by 43.15% between 1950 and 2015, the share of Hindus decreased by 7.82% between 1950 and 2015.
    • The fertility rate of Muslims was 2.36 in 2019-21, much closer to the replacement level. The fertility rate is the average number of children a woman is expected to have in her lifetime. A rate of 2.1 (the ‘replacement level’) means that the population is stable.

    Factors behind the High Population Growth of Muslims:

    • Socio-economic Factors: Socio-economic factors, rather than religion, significantly influence fertility rates. Educating girls, delaying marriage, promoting family planning awareness, and ensuring access to family planning measures are crucial in reducing fertility levels.
    • Regional Variations: Fertility rates among Muslim women vary regionally, influenced by the social and economic development of states.
    • Early Marriage and Literacy: There’s a positive correlation between higher fertility rates and early marriage among women aged 20-24. Conversely, a negative correlation exists between literacy rates among women and fertility rates.
    • Lack of Awareness: Lack of awareness about family planning remains a concern, with a significant portion of women reporting never hearing or seeing family planning messages.
    • Unmet Demand for Family Planning: Many women, particularly Muslims in certain states, have an unmet demand for family planning due to various factors, including lack of access to contraceptive measures.
    • Government Intervention: Increasing awareness about contraceptives, improving access to family planning measures, educating girls, and preventing child marriages are essential government functions to reduce fertility rates across religious groups.

    Need for Coercive Measures: 

    • Comprehensive Education and Awareness Programs: Implement educational campaigns that promote family planning, gender equality, and reproductive health awareness, targeting both men and women in communities across the country.
    • Access to Family Planning Services: Ensure easy access to a wide range of family planning methods and contraceptives, including in remote and underserved areas, through government health facilities and community outreach programs.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Critically examine whether growing population is the cause of poverty OR poverty is the mains cause of population increase in India. (UPSC IAS/2015)

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