UPSC_CS MAINS 2021 Paper I

Points to Remember: Differential impacts of Arctic and Antarctic ice melt on global weather patterns. Varying effects on human activities due to geographical location and vulnerability. Feedback loops and cascading effects of ice melt. Mitigation and adaptation strategies. Introduction: The melting of Arctic sea ice and Antarctic glaciers, driven primarily by anthropogenic climate change, presents … Read more

Points to Remember: Global distribution of volcanic eruptions in 2021. Types of volcanic eruptions and their intensity. Environmental impacts: air quality, climate, water resources, biodiversity. Regional variations in impact based on proximity and vulnerability. Introduction: Volcanic eruptions are powerful geological events that release vast amounts of gases, ash, and lava. While their frequency varies, 2021 … Read more

Points to Remember: Loss of biodiversity Increased pollution Disrupted water cycles Increased flood risk Loss of recreational areas Social and economic consequences Introduction: The reclamation of water bodies for urban land use, a process involving the conversion of aquatic ecosystems into terrestrial areas, has significant and often detrimental environmental implications. This practice, driven by increasing … Read more

Keywords: Himalayan glaciers, melting, water resources, India, impact. Required Approach: Primarily factual and analytical, with some elements of prediction based on existing data and scientific understanding. Points to Remember: Dependence of Indian rivers on Himalayan glaciers. Impact on seasonal water availability. Increased frequency and intensity of floods and droughts. Threats to hydropower generation. Consequences for … Read more

Points to Remember: Geographical Differences: The Himalayan and Western Ghat regions have distinct geological formations, climates, and land use patterns, leading to different landslide triggers. Geological Factors: Rock type, structure, and slope angle are crucial in both regions but manifest differently. Climatic Factors: Monsoon intensity and rainfall patterns significantly influence landslide susceptibility in both regions. … Read more

Points to Remember: Uneven distribution of mineral oil impacts geopolitics, economics, environment, and social structures. Resource-rich nations face challenges like the “resource curse.” Resource-poor nations face energy insecurity and dependence. Sustainable practices and equitable distribution are crucial. Introduction: Mineral oil, encompassing crude oil and natural gas, is a cornerstone of the global economy, powering transportation, … Read more

Points to Remember: India’s geological history as part of Gondwanaland. India’s mining sector’s contribution to GDP. Factors hindering the growth of India’s mining sector. Potential for growth and policy recommendations. Introduction: India, a fragment of the ancient supercontinent Gondwanaland, possesses a rich and diverse geological heritage. This geological legacy should, theoretically, translate into a robust … Read more

Points to Remember: Major mountain ranges are not randomly distributed; they show alignment along tectonic plate boundaries. This alignment significantly influences local weather patterns through orographic effects. The impact varies depending on the mountain range’s height, orientation, and location. Introduction: The Earth’s major mountain ranges are not haphazardly scattered across the globe. Their distribution is … Read more

Points to Remember: Tribal knowledge systems are holistic, experiential, and deeply intertwined with nature. Mainstream knowledge systems are often reductionist, specialized, and detached from the environment. Both systems have strengths and weaknesses; neither is inherently superior. Recognizing and respecting the value of tribal knowledge is crucial for sustainable development. Introduction: The question asks for an … Read more

Points to Remember: Geographical size and diversity Distinct geological features Unique climatic conditions Independent tectonic plate Cultural and linguistic diversity Introduction: India is often referred to as a subcontinent, a term that signifies a large landmass that is geographically distinct yet connected to a larger continent. While the precise definition is debated, the term acknowledges … Read more