UPSC_CS MAINS 2017 Paper III

On December 2004, tsunami brought havoc on 14 countries including India. Discuss the factors responsible for occurrence of Tsunami and its effects on life and economy. In the light of guidelines of NDMA (2010) describe the mechanisms for preparedness to reduce the risk during such events.

Points to Remember: Causes of Tsunamis: Understanding tectonic plate movement, underwater earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and landslides. Effects of the 2004 Tsunami: Humanitarian crisis, economic devastation, environmental damage. NDMA Guidelines (2010): Focus on early warning systems, community preparedness, evacuation plans, and post-disaster relief. Introduction: The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, triggered by a massive undersea earthquake off … Read more

âClimate Changeâ is a global problem. How India will be affected by climate change? How Himalayan and coastal states of India will be affected by climate change?

Points to Remember: Climate change impacts are multifaceted and geographically varied. Himalayan and coastal states face unique vulnerabilities. Adaptation and mitigation strategies are crucial for India. Introduction: Climate change, driven primarily by anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions, is a global phenomenon with far-reaching consequences. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) unequivocally confirms the reality and … Read more

Not many years ago,river linking was a concept but it is becoming reality in the country. Discuss the advantages of river linking and its possible impact on the environment.

Points to Remember: River linking projects aim to transfer surplus water from water-rich basins to water-deficient basins. Advantages include improved irrigation, drinking water supply, and flood control. Environmental impacts include changes in river ecosystems, biodiversity loss, and potential salinity issues. A balanced approach is crucial, considering both benefits and drawbacks. Introduction: River linking, the inter-basin … Read more

Discuss the potential threats of Cyber-attack and the security framework to prevent it.

Points to Remember: Types of cyberattacks (malware, phishing, DDoS, etc.) Vulnerabilities exploited in cyberattacks (software flaws, human error, weak passwords) Components of a robust cybersecurity framework (prevention, detection, response, recovery) Role of technology, policies, and human awareness in cybersecurity. National and international cooperation in cybersecurity. Introduction: Cyberattacks pose a significant threat to individuals, businesses, and … Read more

The scourge of terrorism is a grave challenge to national security. What solutions do you suggest to curb this growing menace? What are the major sources of terrorist funding?

Points to Remember: Terrorism’s multifaceted nature necessitates a multi-pronged approach. Counter-terrorism strategies must balance security with human rights. Addressing the root causes of terrorism is crucial for long-term solutions. International cooperation is essential to combat terrorism effectively. Transparency in funding and financial regulations are vital to curb terrorist financing. Introduction: Terrorism, defined as the unlawful … Read more

The north-eastern region of India has been infested with insurgency for a very long time. Analyze the major reasons for the survival of armed insurgency in this region.

Points to Remember: Historical grievances and unresolved political issues. Socio-economic disparities and lack of development. Cross-border support and external influences. Weak governance and security challenges. Internal divisions and lack of cohesive counter-insurgency strategies. Introduction: The northeastern region of India, comprising eight states, has grappled with armed insurgency for several decades. This persistent conflict stems from … Read more

Mob violence is emerging as a serious law and order problem in India. By giving suitable examples,analyze the causes and consequences of such violence.

Points to Remember: Definition of mob violence: Unlawful violence perpetrated by a group of individuals against a person or property. Causes: Social, economic, political, and religious factors. Consequences: Loss of life, property damage, social unrest, erosion of law and order. Examples: Specific instances of mob violence in India. Solutions: Strengthening law enforcement, addressing underlying social … Read more

India has achieved remarkable successes in unmanned space missions including the Chandrayaan and Mars Orbiter Mission, but has not ventured into manned space mission, both in terms of technology and logistics? Explain critically.

Points to Remember: India’s success in unmanned space missions. Lack of a manned space mission program. Technological and logistical challenges. Economic considerations. International collaborations. Future prospects for a manned space mission. Introduction: India’s space program, overseen by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), has garnered international acclaim for its cost-effective and technologically advanced unmanned missions. … Read more

Stem cell therapy is gaining popularity in India to treat a wide variety of medical conditions including leukaemia, Thalassemia, damaged cornea and several burns. Describe briefly what stem cell therapy is and what advantages it has over other treatments?

Points to Remember: Definition and mechanism of stem cell therapy. Advantages of stem cell therapy over conventional treatments. Specific applications in treating leukemia, thalassemia, corneal damage, and burns. Ethical considerations and limitations. Introduction: Stem cell therapy is a rapidly evolving medical field gaining significant traction globally, including in India. It involves the use of stem … Read more

Give an account of the growth and development of nuclear science and technology in India. What is the advantage of fast breeder reactor programme in India?

Points to Remember: Milestones in Indian nuclear development. Key figures and institutions involved. Advantages and disadvantages of the Fast Breeder Reactor (FBR) program. India’s nuclear doctrine and international collaborations. Future prospects and challenges. Introduction: India’s journey in nuclear science and technology is a story of scientific perseverance, strategic planning, and self-reliance. Beginning with modest research … Read more