upsc

What are aurora australis and aurora borealis? How are these triggered?

Introduction:  Start with Definition Auroras are stunning natural light displays that occur in polar regions. Aurora Borealis: Also known as the Northern Lights, visible in the northern hemisphere,  primarily near the Arctic Circle. (e.g., Alaska, Norway, Canada). Aurora Australis: Also...

The groundwater potential of the Gangetic valley is on a serious decline. How may it affect the food security of India?

Introduction: The Gangetic Valley, part of the Indo-Gangetic Plains, is one of India's most fertile regions, contains vast alluvial tracts with huge shallow aquifers, densely populated and agriculturally productive regions crucial for food production.  Can Add Map Showing Gangetic Valley...

How far was the Industrial Revolution in England responsible for the decline of handicrafts and cottage industries in India?

Introduction:  You can start your answer with the Industrial revolution which began in England in the late 18th century, revolutionised manufacturing processes and economic structures.  Its impact reached far beyond England, significantly affecting colonial economies, particularly India, where traditional handicrafts...

How far is it correct to say that the First World War was fought essentially for the preservation of balance of power?

Introduction: The First World War (1914-1918) was a complex conflict, and while it had multiple causes, one of the central motivations was the desire of European powers to maintain or shift the balance of power in their favour. The balance...

“Though the great Cholas are no more yet their name is still remembered with great pride because of their highest achievements in the domain of art and architecture.” Comment

Introduction Give timeline of the period discussed and overview of their Art and Architecture The Chola Dynasty (850-1250 CE). The Dravidian style of art and architecture reached its perfection under the Cholas. Their legacy lives on in the numerous temples...

In dealing with socio-economic issues of development, what kind of collaboration between government, NGOs and private sector would be most productive?

Introduction Addressing socio-economic issues of development requires a multi-stakeholder approach involving the government, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and the private sector. Each player has unique strengths, and a collaborative model that can maximise social impact and tackle complex issues like poverty,...

Intercaste marriages between castes which have socio-economic parity have increased, to some extent, but this is less true of interreligious marriages. Discuss.

Introduction The Supreme Court held that inter-caste marriages are the way forward to reduce communal tensions. Additionally the Rajasthan government in the budget 2023-24 raised the incentive to inter-caste marriages in the state. It shows the state’s commitment towards reducing...

Distinguish between gender equality, gender equity and women’s empowerment. Why is it important to take gender concerns into account in programme design and implementation?

Introduction Gender Equality refers to the equal rights, responsibilities, and opportunities of all genders While, Gender Equity- recognizes that different genders may require different resources and support to achieve equality. Women’s Empowerment is the process of increasing the social, economic,...

Despite comprehensive policies for equity and social justice, underprivileged sections are not yet getting the full benefits of affirmative action envisaged by the constitution. Comment

Introduction Affirmative actions have been implemented to address historical and social justice through reservations in education, jobs, and political representation, aimed to uplift underprivileged groups like SCs, STs, and OBCs, as mandated by the Constitution for social justice and equality. ...

What is the concept of a ‘demographic winter’? Is the world moving towards such a situation?

Introduction Begin your answer with the concept of demographic winter-scenario where birth rates decline significantly, falling below the replacement rate of 2.1 children per woman. State that the phenomena is being observed in many developed countries, raising concerns about long-term...