UPSC_CS MAINS 2016 Paper III

With reference to National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) guidelines, discuss the measures to be adopted to mitigate the impact of the recent incidents of cloudbursts in many places of Uttarakhand.

Points to Remember: NDMA guidelines on disaster management. Mitigation measures for cloudbursts in Uttarakhand. Pre-disaster preparedness, disaster response, and post-disaster recovery. Importance of community participation and technological advancements. Introduction: Cloudbursts, characterized by intense rainfall concentrated over a small area in a short period, have caused significant devastation in Uttarakhand, India, in recent years. These events … Read more

The frequency of urban floods due to high intensity rainfall is increasing over the years. Discussing the reasons for urban floods, highlight the mechanisms for preparedness to reduce the risk during such events.

Points to Remember: Increasing frequency of urban floods due to high-intensity rainfall. Reasons for urban floods (lack of drainage, urbanization, climate change). Mechanisms for preparedness and risk reduction (improved drainage, early warning systems, public awareness). Introduction: Urban flooding, characterized by the inundation of urban areas due to excessive rainfall, is a growing global concern. The … Read more

Rehabilitation of human settlements is one of the important environmental impacts which always attracts controversy while planning major projects. Discuss the measures suggested from mitigation of this impact while proposing major developmental projects.

Points to Remember: Keywords: Rehabilitation of human settlements, environmental impact, mitigation measures, major developmental projects, controversy. Approach: Primarily analytical, with elements of factual reporting and policy recommendation. Introduction: Rehabilitation of human settlements displaced by major developmental projects is a critical environmental and social issue. Large-scale projects like dams, mines, highways, and industrial complexes often necessitate … Read more

âTerrorism is emerging as a competitive industry over the last few decades.â Analyze the above statement.

Points to Remember: The increasing sophistication and organization of terrorist groups. The role of ideology, grievances, and political opportunity in fueling terrorism. The impact of globalization and technology on terrorist activities. The counter-terrorism strategies employed by governments and international organizations. The ethical and legal dilemmas associated with combating terrorism. Introduction: The statement “Terrorism is emerging … Read more

Border management is a complex task due to difficult terrain and hostile relations with some countries. Elucidate the challenges and strategies for effective border management.

Points to Remember: Challenges: Difficult terrain, hostile relations, porous borders, illegal immigration, smuggling, cross-border crime, lack of technology, inadequate infrastructure, corruption. Strategies: Enhanced technology, improved infrastructure, international cooperation, stricter laws, capacity building, community engagement, intelligence sharing, diplomatic efforts. Introduction: Border management is the process of controlling and regulating the movement of people, goods, and vehicles … Read more

The terms âHot Pursuitâ and âSurgical Strikesâ are often used in connection with armed action against terrorist attacks. Discuss the strategic impact of such actions.

Points to Remember: Definition and legal basis of “Hot Pursuit” and “Surgical Strikes.” Strategic objectives pursued through these actions. Short-term and long-term consequences. Ethical and legal implications. Comparative analysis of effectiveness. Potential for escalation and unintended consequences. Introduction: The terms “Hot Pursuit” and “Surgical Strikes,” frequently employed in discussions surrounding counter-terrorism operations, represent distinct yet … Read more

Use of internet and social media by non-state actors for subversive activities is a major security concern. How have these been misused in the recent past? Suggest Effective guidelines to curb the above threat.

Points to Remember: Misuse of internet and social media by non-state actors. Examples of subversive activities. Effective guidelines to curb misuse. Balancing security with freedom of expression. Introduction: The internet and social media have revolutionized communication, connecting billions globally. However, this connectivity has also been exploited by non-state actors (NSAs) â groups or individuals outside … Read more

Why is nanotechnology one of the key technologies of the 21st century? Describe the salient features of India Governmentâs Mission on Nan science and Technology and the scope of its application in the development process of the country.

Points to Remember: Nanotechnology’s unique properties and applications across diverse sectors. India’s Nanomaterials Science and Technology Initiative (NSTI) and its objectives. Scope of nanotechnology in India’s development â economic growth, societal impact, and challenges. Introduction: Nanotechnology, the manipulation of matter at the atomic and molecular scale (1-100 nanometers), is revolutionizing numerous fields. Its ability to … Read more

Discuss Indiaâs achievements in the field of Space Science and Technology. How the application of this technology has helped India inits socio-economic development?

Points to Remember: India’s space program milestones (e.g., satellite launches, lunar missions, Mars mission). Socio-economic applications of space technology (e.g., communication, agriculture, disaster management). Challenges and future prospects of India’s space program. Introduction: India’s space program, spearheaded by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), has witnessed remarkable achievements since its inception. From humble beginnings, it … Read more

Give an account of the current status and the targets to be achieved pertaining to renewable energy sources in the country. Discuss in brief the importance of National Programme on Light Emitting diodes (LEDs).

Points to Remember: Current status of renewable energy sources in India. Targets for renewable energy in India (national targets and state-specific targets where relevant). Importance of the National Programme on Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs). Challenges and opportunities in achieving renewable energy targets. Policy recommendations and best practices. Introduction: India, a rapidly developing nation, faces the … Read more