03 OCTOBER 2022 – MAINS DAILY QUESTIONS & MODEL ANSWERS: Q1. What are some of the issues associated with the civil aviation sector of India? Discuss briefly.   Paper & Topic: GS III  Infrastructural Development Model Answer: Introduction: Over the past three years, India’s civil aviation sector has experienced some of the nation’s fastest growth. India has overtaken the UK to become the third-largest domestic aviation market in the world, and by 2024, it is predicted to surpass it. Body: India’s aviation industry is important: Contributes to GDP: India’s aviation industry currently makes a $72 billion GDP contribution. By 2035, the Indian aviation industry will have created 4 million new jobs. Growth in Allied Sectors: Prior to COVID-19, the Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul (MRO) sector was predicted to increase at a five-year CAGR of over 10% by 2023. Regional Connectivity: It improves connectivity to North Eastern States and smaller cities. Issues Facing the Indian Aviation Industry: Lack of land to develop airports in their current locations, particularly in big cities, is an example of an infrastructure deficiency. High Fuel Prices: Compared to the global average of 30%, India’s fuel costs account for 45% of operating expenses. Procedural complexity: The cost of transactions in the aviation industry is increased by taxes and approvals from both the federal and state governments. Inadequate Human Resource Capabilities: The availability of industry-recognized capabilities, including those of airline pilots and crew as well as maintenance and ground handling staff, are in short supply, which limits the growth of many industrial segments. Weak MRO sector: 90% of Indian MRO work is outsourced to Singapore, Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, Sri Lanka, and other nations. Conclusion: For an airline to leave India, several strict regulatory requirements must be relaxed, and the country’s policies must be liberalised. As envisioned in the civil aviation strategy of 2016, tier II and tier III cities will also experience new infrastructure development with increased private sector participation. Q2. What do you understand by the concept of ‘Juice Jacking’. Discuss.   Paper & Topic: GS III  Science and Technology Model Answer: Introduction: Juice Jacking: What is it? It is a hacking attempt made using a USB charging cord. Body: How it functions: A back-door access into the infected device is made available to hackers when a user puts a charging cable into his mobile device’s charging port and connects it to any of the rigged charging stations set up in public places like airports, train stations, hotels, cafes, etc. The main source of worry in this case is the charging port, which is also utilised for USB data transfer. Threats: These are just a few of the numerous nasty things that a hacker may do with unfettered access, including installing malware, deleting user data, demanding ransom in exchange for access to personal data on the phone, and stealing personal and financial account information. Conclusion: Actions to Reduce the Risks: Use private charging outlets sparingly. Due to the fact that they are frequently left unattended and unmonitored, these are easy targets for hackers. Always charge a smartphone with your own AC charging cable and adaptor. Also, make sure to use the AC wall socket rather than the USB one on the wall when plugging it in. Be cautious when using a stranger’s laptop or device. Never use a laptop or PC belonging to an unknowing person to charge your electronics and the reverse. Purchase and have on hand a certified power bank with sufficient capacity to meet your device’s emergency power backup requirements. Try to use a cable that can only be used for charging and not for data transfer. A USB blocker should be used by frequent travellers.

01 OCTOBER 2022 – MAINS DAILY QUESTIONS & MODEL ANSWERS: Q1. What are some of the issues associated with crypto currency? Suggest some remedial measures.   Paper & Topic: GS III  Indian Economy Model Answer: India’s current cryptocurrency situation: The recommendation of an inter-ministerial commission on cryptocurrencies is that all private cryptocurrencies, with the exception of any virtual currencies created by the government, be banned in India. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has also expressed concerns to the Center on the cryptocurrencies sold on the market. Back in March 2020, the Supreme Court overturned the RBI’s 2018 circular banning them (On the basis of “proportionality”), allowing banks and financial institutions to resume services relating to cryptocurrencies. Issues Associated: Consumer risk: Cryptocurrencies carry a sovereign guarantee. They lack a governmental guarantee and are not accepted as legal currency. Their speculative nature also makes them very volatile in the market. The price of Bitcoin, for instance, dropped from USD 20,000 in December 2017 to USD 3,800 in November 2018. Threat to security: If a user misplaces their private key, they can no longer access their cryptocurrency (unlike traditional digital banking accounts, this password cannot be reset). Threats posed by malware: These private keys may occasionally be kept by technical service providers (such as cryptocurrency exchanges or wallets), which are vulnerable to malware or hacking. Laundering money. Recommendations of the SC Garg Committee 2019: Anyone involved in cryptocurrency mining, holding, trading, or dealing should be prohibited. It suggests a prison sentence ranging from one to ten years for dealing in digital currency. It suggested a financial fine of up to three times the exchequer’s loss or the bitcoin user’s profit, whichever was greater. The group did advise the government to have an open mind on any prospective cryptocurrency issuance by the Reserve Bank of India. What do cryptocurrencies stand for? Cryptocurrencies are digital currencies that function without a central bank and employ encryption techniques to control the creation of units of money and confirm the transfer of payments. Examples include Bitcoin and Ethereum. Q2. What do you understand by virtual server. Also explain some of its advantages.    Paper & Topic: GS III  Science and Technology Model Answer: A virtual server: what is it? A virtual server is a replica of a server environment that is installed on a real server. In essence, it duplicates the features of a dedicated physical server. What advantages does a virtual server offer? More effective Organizations can use processing power and resources more effectively by running numerous operating systems and applications on a single partitioned server by converting a single physical server into multiple virtual servers. Cost savings are achieved by running many operating systems and applications on a single physical machine, which uses less hardware and space. Greater security: Because the operating system and applications are contained within a virtual machine, it offers greater protection than a real server architecture. This protects the virtual computer from security breaches and harmful activity. Useful for Testing and Debugging Applications across many operating systems and versions can be tested and debugged using virtual servers instead of having to manually install and run them on several physical devices.

30 SEPTEMBER 2022 – MAINS DAILY QUESTIONS & MODEL ANSWERS: Q1. What are the causes of urban water logging? Discuss some of the remedial measures?   Paper & Topic: GS III  Environmental Conservation Model Answer: Urban water logging are a man-made calamity caused by overworked drainage, unchecked building, disregard for the natural topography, and hydro-geomorphology. Cities like Hyderabad and Mumbai rely on a century-old drainage system that only serves a small portion of the central city. The original built-up area of Indian cities has increased significantly over the past 20 years. When the city expanded past its original boundaries, little was done to rectify the lack of suitable drainage systems. Flattening the ground and changing the natural drainage systems have caused the city long-term, irreparable harm. This damage was caused by developers, property owners, and government organisations. Reducing Seepage: Indian cities are growing more water-impervious due to increased building as well as the type of materials utilised (hard, non-porous construction material that makes the soil impervious). Lax Implementation: Despite the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA(a )’s regulatory tool) inclusion of provisions for rainwater harvesting, sustainable urban drainage systems, etc., user uptake and enforcement remain poor. Encroaching on Natural Spaces: From 644 wetlands in 1956 to 123 wetlands in 2018, wetlands have decreased in number. Only 9% of the land is covered in vegetation, when it should be at least 33%. Moving Forward:  Holistic Engagement Is Required Because Municipal Authorities Alone Cannot Control Urban Floods Of This Scale. Without coordinated and targeted investments of time, effort, and money, flooding cannot be controlled. Municipal corporations should collaborate on this task along with the Metropolitan Development Authorities, National Disaster Management Authority, State revenue and irrigation departments. Such investments can only be made in a mission-driven organisation with the active involvement of metropolitan-scale civil society organisations. Creating Sponge Cities: The goal of a sponge city is to make a city more permeable so that it can capture and utilise the water that it receives. Rainwater is absorbed by sponge cities, where it is organically filtered by the soil before entering metropolitan aquifers. This enables the use of urban or peri-urban wells to draw water from the earth. This water is simply treatable and suitable for use in city water systems. Wetland Regulations: Wetland management must be given more attention, and local communities must be included. Without a doubt, there needs to be stringent regulation of terrain modification and a moratorium on further changes to the landscape. New porous technologies and materials need to be promoted or required on a wide scale in order to increase the city’s capacity to absorb water. These technologies include green roofs and harvesting systems in buildings, bioswales and retention systems, permeable materials for roads and pavement, drainage systems that allow storm water to trickle into the earth, and permeable materials for roads and pavement. Q2. What is Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone. Discuss its key features.   Paper & Topic: GS I  Geography related concepts Model Answer: About ITCZ: It is a region where winds blowing equatorward from midlatitudes and winds blowing poleward from the tropics collide between the northern and southern hemispheres. Seasonally, it moves from north to south in accordance with the Sun’s motion. As an illustration, the southeast trade wind transforms to a southwest wind as it crosses the Equator when the ITCZ is relocated to the north of the Equator. Based on the distribution of land and water, the ITCZ only moves between 40° and 45° of latitude north or south of the equator. ITCZ (Intertropical Convergence Zone) causes: The convergence of the northeast and southeast trade winds in the region encircling the Earth around the equator is what creates the ITCZ (Intertropical Convergence Zone). Trade Winds: Easterly winds that travel in a ring around the planet close to its equator. Air masses: A measurement of the volume of air based on the temperature and water vapour content. This air mass brings unstable weather to tropical latitudes where it is hot to very hot and has a high relative humidity. Due to the convergence of the trade winds, it appears as a ring of clouds that surrounds the world close to the equator and consists of showers with sporadic thunderstorms.

29 SEPTEMBER 2022 – MAINS DAILY QUESTIONS & MODEL ANSWERS: Q1. What is the strategic importance of Indo – Pacific region to the world? Discuss.   Paper & Topic: GS II  International relations Model Answer: The Indo Pacific region is a ten year old idea that has recently gained substantial currency. It is predicated on the knowledge that the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean, despite their seeming divergence, actually form a connected strategic theatre with a single strategic heft. How did the phrase “Indo Pacific” become popular? A region’s nations inevitably get together to discuss establishing a particular structure and order to guarantee peace and security. Similar to this, numerous nations have been referring to the Indo Pacific (I.P.) region in their official announcements. S. Jaishankar, the minister of external affairs, stated that I.P. is one of the novel ideas and methods brought about by the changing nature of the world during his visit to Russia. Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed I.P. as a shared future at the Shangri La summit in 2018. While meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasised the need of preserving the freedom of navigation and the stability of the Internet. A “Track 1.5” dialogue centred on identifying security concerns and sustaining difficulties in the Indo Pacific was also held between Australia, France, and India. Track 1.5 dialogues are discussions in which experts from both the public and private sectors are present at the same table and contribute informally. The importance of the Indo Pacific region is increased by the existence of four major economies: the USA, China, Japan, and India. What variations exist in the interpretation of the Indo-Pacific? The Indo Pacific (I.P.) is viewed differently by many nations. The interpretation can be broadly divided into three types: The Indian version sees I.P. as a welcoming environment for all stakeholders based on shared duties and objectives. India’s perspective on intellectual property also acknowledges a strategic connection regarding the shared opportunities and difficulties that the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean face. The US version applies a rules-based order to a free and open Internet protocol. It differs slightly from the Indian version in that it excludes any nation that doesn’t follow a set of regulations and established norms of behaviour. Additionally, the American form of I.P. only covers the region from the Pacific coast of America to the Bay of Bengal, whereas the Indian version covers the region all the way to the eastern African coast. There aren’t many nations that use this version. In contrast to the rules-based system imposed by the US and, to some extent, India, the third version is one that ASEAN interprets as a model based on consociation. A political structure known as a consociation is created when various, antagonistic social groups cooperate on the basis of power sharing. Instead of simply treating China like any other stakeholder, they call for practical cooperation with it. Many ASEAN nations are economically “bankrolled” (funded) by Chinese help, therefore they are compelled to maintain a neutral stance. China is also ASEAN’s biggest trading partner. Therefore, the ASEAN’s 2011 agreement’s vision of cooperative thinking is eroding. Regarding the Act East policy, India emphasises the centrality and significant role of ASEAN in the securitization of intellectual property. It is a response to the geopolitical constraint India shares with China and Pakistan on its northern and western borders. India is also exploring for ways to use ASEAN as a market for manufactured goods and a supply of raw materials. A third angle suggests that ASEAN is also aware of the necessity for India to counterbalance China, especially in light of the US disengagement from multilateral alliances. The Indian version is in the middle, with the US and ASEAN counterparts to its right and left, respectively. India is continuously working to strike a balance between the three narratives, and our relationship with France, Australia, Japan, etc. helps us do this. Is the Indo-Pacific Region a Significant Shift in the Global Political Order? About 75 years had passed since the beginning of the USA-led international liberal system. When it comes to increases in commerce and investment, China is the order’s biggest winner. Up to the start of the Cold War, the Atlantic Ocean remained the centre of gravity for world politics and trade. Later, Asia Pacific took its place and was intended to exclude Indian interests, particularly against the backdrop of the Cold War. The liberal order is currently undergoing change as nations like the US view international politics differently. The shift of the international political centre of gravity toward Asia is seen as the result of the change from Asia Pacific to I.P. Additionally, it denotes a change in the Geopolitical fulcrum and the Power Balance. Reasons for the change: To secure and uphold tranquilly and the rule of law in the Indian and Pacific Oceans, across which the majority of global trade passes. India supports this cause as well, but never makes a big deal out of it. India contends that nobody’s property or communication depends on the I.P. sea routes. The US is exhibiting a “withdrawal” attitude from multilateral alliances under the presidency of Donald Trump, alarmed its longtime friends including South Korea, Japan, and the ASEAN nations. China is becoming a more assertive actor, especially in light of the ASEAN nations’ shifting stances. What are the tenets of India’s Indo-Pacific strategy? India’s approach to intellectual property can be summed up as “Open, Integrated, and Balanced.” Open: The I.P. is free of any hegemonic influence. It is a crucial element in the context of the Chinese PLA navy’s efforts to displace the overwhelming US presence in the area. Informally, China has taken control of both the Indian Ocean and the South China Sea. India wants to turn a “divided” area into one that is “integrated,” especially in the case of ASEAN. It serves as a deterrent to China’s divide-and-conquer strategy in ASEAN nations. Balanced: India bases its vision on a multipolar

28 SEPTEMBER 2022 – MAINS DAILY QUESTIONS & MODEL ANSWERS: Q1. What is Indian Refugee Policy. Discuss.    Paper & Topic: GS I  Indian Society Model Answer: Introduction: The refugee policy of India: Despite the growing number of refugees entering India, there is no explicit legislation to address the issue. The specific issues that refugees as a group experience are not addressed by the Foreigners Act of 1946. Additionally, it allows the Central government unrestricted authority to remove any foreign national. The Citizenship Amendment Act, 2019 (CAA) also egregiously excludes Muslims from its scope of application and only attempts to provide citizenship to immigrants who are Hindu, Christian, Jain, Parsi, Sikh, or Buddhist who have faced persecution in Bangladesh, Pakistan, or Afghanistan. In addition, India is not a signatory to the fundamental legal agreements governing refugee protection, the 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol. India has a fantastic track record when it comes to refugee protection, despite not being a party to the 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol. India has a moral legacy of integrating immigrants’ cultures. The Indian Constitution also upholds the dignity, freedom, and right to life of all people. While these rights are available to citizens, the Supreme Court ruled in National Human Rights Commission v. State of Arunachal Pradesh (1996) that “persons, including foreign nationals, are entitled to the right to equality and the right to life, among others.” Body: India’s justification for refusing to ratify the 1951 Refugee Convention: The 1951 convention’s concept of refugees only applies to cases in which an individual’s civil and political rights have been violated, not their economic rights. For instance, if someone is denied their political rights, they may fall under the convention’s criteria, but not if they are denied their economic rights. It is obvious that the developed world would bear a heavy burden if the violation of economic rights were to be considered a refugee. On the other hand, if this argument were made in the context of South Asia, it might also pose issues for India. Concerns About India’s Refugee Policy: Refugees vs. immigrants: In recent years, a lot of people from nearby countries have tended to illegally relocate to India, not because they are being persecuted by the government but rather because they believe there are better economic prospects there. The two groups frequently get grouped together, despite the fact that the majority of the discussion in the nation focuses on illegal immigrants rather than refugees. As a result, the policies and solutions used to address these problems lack both clarity and policy value. Ambiguity in the Framework: According to Indian law, both kinds of persons are recognised as one and the same and are covered under the Foreigners Act, 1946, which is the main cause of our policies regarding illegal immigrants and refugees being unclear. Ad hocism: Because of the lack of such a legal framework, India’s refugee policy is mostly determined by ad hocism. Ad hoc measures provide the current administration the freedom to decide “what kind” of refugees it wishes to accept for any number of political or international affairs. As a result, a discriminating action is taken, which frequently violates human rights Discriminatory The Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) was adopted by the Indian government (CAA). People who are religious minorities in India’s neighbourhood and are being oppressed by the state are envisioned by CAA as receiving citizenship. However, CAA is not the solution to the refugee issue, largely due to its blatantly discriminatory nature since it excludes a specific faith from its purview. Furthermore, the CAA has been described by many political experts as an act of refugee avoidance rather than refugee protection. Conclusion: India has been one of the world’s top hosts of refugees despite not being a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention or its 1967 Protocol. However, if India had internal refugee legislation, it might have discouraged any tyrannical governments in the area from persecuting their citizens and forcing them to migrate to India. Q2. What is Sponge City Technology?   Paper & Topic: GS III  Environmental Conservation Model Answer: Introduction: The goal of the sponge city concept is to increase the permeability of metropolitan areas, provide more open space for rainwater storage, and enable water to seep into aquifers. The Chennai Water Resources Department is considering the feasibility of constructing recharging shafts in minor water bodies spread throughout the city. 80–90 feet can be drilled down into these recharging shafts. It will aid in recharging the water table. According to the concept, smaller bodies of water and temple tanks might be utilised as buildings to store extra water after heavy rain. Depending on the city’s needs, water can be purified, extracted, and delivered. Body: Sponge city is a new approach to urban planning that aims to improve drainage and ecological infrastructure while managing flooding. Chinese experts first put out this idea in 2000. This idea was recognised as “urbanism policy” by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and State Council in 2014. This system aids in reducing urban flooding, the urban heat island effect, and the scarcity of water supplies. By absorbing and retaining rainwater and utilising it to lessen floods, it also enhances the biological environment and biodiversity. Natural landscapes are used to catch, store, and clean water in sponge cities, which are solutions based on nature. The ancient art of coping with climate issues, particularly in the monsoon world, served as inspiration for this idea. Mission Sponge Cities – India: The fundamental goal of the sponge city is to increase cities’ permeability so that rainwater can be captured and utilised. An urban mission similar to the National Heritage City Development & Augmentation Yojana (HRIDAY), Atal Mission for Rejuvenation & Urban Transformation (AMRUT), and Smart Cities Mission can successfully implement each of them. Conclusion: Sponge cities are required in India because: In Indian metropolises, urban flooding has become a recurrent occurrence. The recurrence of significant floods in urban areas has not been effectively managed or controlled by India’s land

27 SEPTEMBER 2022 – MAINS DAILY QUESTIONS & MODEL ANSWERS: Q1. Discuss about the PSLV Orbital Experimental Module (POEM)?   Paper & Topic: GS III  Science and Technology Model Answer: Introduction: Experiments using an orbiting platform during the fourth stage of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) launch vehicle. The fourth and final stage (PS4) of the four-stage PSLV rocket, which was used to propel the satellite into orbit, ends up as space debris while the first three expended stages of the rocket fall back into the ocean. Body: The spent final stage will serve as a “stabilised platform” for experiments during PSLV-C53, nevertheless. The fourth stage, or PS4, will orbit the earth for the first time as a stabilised platform. For the purpose of managing any aerospace vehicle’s orientation within allowed bounds, POEM has a specific Navigation Guidance and Control (NGC) system. The NGC will serve as the platform’s brain in order to precisely stabilise it. Conclusion: What is carried by it? Six payloads are carried by POEM, including two each from Digantara and Dhruva Space, two Indian space startups supported by IN-SPACe and NSIL. POEM will be powered by a Li-Ion battery and solar panels installed around the PS4 tank. It will use four sun sensors, a magnetometer, gyros, and NavIC to navigate. Additionally, it has specialised control thrusters that store helium gas. It has a telecommand feature enabled. Q2. What are Eco-Sensitive Zones? Discuss.   Paper & Topic: GS III  Environmental Conservation Model Answer: Introduction: What are ESZs, or eco-sensitive zones? The Environmental (Protection) Act of 1986 requires state governments to designate land within 10 kilometres of the borders of national parks and wildlife sanctuaries as eco-fragile zones or Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs), according to the National Wildlife Action Plan (2002-2016) of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC). Although the 10-km rule is applied as a general guideline, its exact scope can vary. If areas exceeding 10 km contain bigger ecologically significant “sensitive corridors,” the Union government may additionally declare those areas to be ESZs. The primary goal of these regulations is to limit the detrimental effects of certain activities on the delicate ecosystem surrounding National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries. Body: What are the ESZ Activities that are permitted? Commercial mining, sawmills, industries that pollute the environment (air, water, soil, noise, etc.), the construction of large hydroelectric projects (HEP), and the use of wood for commercial purposes are prohibited activities. Activities related to tourism such as hot air balloon flights over a national park, the release of effluents or any solid waste, or the manufacture of hazardous materials Regulated Activities: Cutting down trees, building hotels and resorts, using natural water for commercial purposes, erecting electrical lines, drastically altering the agriculture system, such as by using heavy machinery, insecticides, etc., and widening highways. Current agricultural or horticultural methods, the use of renewable energy sources, organic farming, and the application of green technology for all activities are permitted activities. What are ESZs Important for? Reduce the negative effects of development activities: The areas close to protected areas have been designated as Eco-Sensitive Zones in order to lessen the effects of urbanisation and other developmental activities. Localized conservation: ESZs support in-situ conservation, which focuses on preserving a threatened species in its own environment, such as the one-horned rhinoceros of Assam’s Kaziranga National Park. Minimize Man-Animal Conflict and Forest Depletion: Eco-sensitive zones reduce man-animal conflict and the loss of forests. The core and buffer style of management serves as the foundation for the protected areas, which also benefits and protects the surrounding communities. Reduce Negative Effects on the Vulnerable Ecosystems: Eco-sensitive zones are designated around protected areas in order to act as a “Shock Absorber” for the protected region. They serve as a crossing point between regions with high levels of protection and those with lower levels of protection. What difficulties and dangers face environmentally sensitive areas? Growth-Promoting Activities: In the ESZ, projects like building roads, dams, and other urban and rural infrastructure cause interference, have a negative effect on the ecosystem, and upset the natural system. For instance, building roads would result in the removal of trees, which would worsen soil erosion and ultimately damage the habitats of the species protected by the ESZ. Regulation and New Laws: Legislation like the Environmental Protection Act of 1986 and the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 weaken the ESZs in favour of development activities by failing to respect the rights of forest communities and reducing animal poaching. The latest draught notification for shrinking the ESZs of Bannerghatta National Park, for instance. Tourism: The government is creating new locations and entrances to the ESZ as tourism pressure increases. Land around parks and sanctuaries is being removed through deforestation, eviction of locals, etc. to meet the growing demand for eco-tourism. Tourists pollute the ecosystem by dumping trash such plastic bags, bottles, and other items. Exotic Species Introduction: Natural forests are under pressure by plantations of exotic species like Eucalyptus and Acacia auriculiformis, among others, and these species’ plantations. Changing Climate: Climate change and biodiversity are related; for instance, the increase in world temperature has caused ecological, water, and land stress in the ESZs. Consider forest fires or the Assam floods, both of which had a negative impact on the wildlife and Kaziranga National Park. Local Communities: The protected areas are under strain from slash-and-burn farming practises, the pressure of a growing population, and the expanding demand for firewood and other forest products, among other things. Conclusion: Promoting Eco Restoration: Reforestation and afforestation of damaged forests, regeneration of lost ecosystems, and education are required to lessen the effects of climate change. Awareness is needed: People should be educated about conservation methods and the negative effects of resource overuse. Collaboration at Various Levels: In order to strike a balance between development and sustainable development, stakeholders including the government, civil society, and civil society organisations must work together. The government shouldn’t limit itself to acting as a catalyst for economic activity in order to boost the State’s fortunes right away. Achieving

26 SEPTEMBER 2022 – MAINS DAILY QUESTIONS & MODEL ANSWERS: Q1. What was the vision of Mahatma Gandhi regarding Swadeshi.   Paper & Topic: GS III  Modern Indian History Model Answer: Gandhi’s life philosophy is fundamentally based on satyagraha and swadeshi.  Gandhi believed that all of man’s efforts together form one cohesive totality.  Life cannot be divided into compartments that are impenetrable, such as social, economic, political, religious, and so forth. He therefore tried to unify the numerous facets of existence through the thoughts and concepts he formed during the course of his constant experimentation with the truth. Swadeshi as a concept was not an exception.  It was more than just an economic theory. In actuality, the Swadeshi philosophy included all facets of human existence.  Despite being introduced in the context of India’s freedom fight, Gandhi’s concept of swadeshi is a worldwide one.  Swadeshi was a tool he employed to advance India’s swaraj.  Many non-violent struggles around the world were influenced by India’s struggle for independence.  A universally applicable philosophy that can be imitated by individuals in their quest for independence is swaraj through swadeshi. One of the eleven promises Gandhi outlined for a life of satygraha was this one.  As a general term, “Swadeshi” refers to all of a person’s ideas, concepts, methods, and programmes.  The current paper’s focus, however, is restricted to topics like economics, politics, society, religion, education, and health. We will first examine Gandhi’s understanding of swadeshi. Swadeshi, according to Gandhi, is the “rule of laws” implanted in every human being at their core.  Like natural law, it doesn’t require enactment. The law, like the laws of nature, follows its own course to return to the original position when someone disregards or disobeys it out of ignorance or for other reasons.  Swadeshi must be included as a vow since Gandhi himself said that the people have forgotten this legislation, or, to use his own words, that it has “sunk into oblivion.”  Q2. What was the role of Industrialists in the Indian Freedom Struggle?   Paper & Topic: GS III  Modern Indian History Model Answer: The business class, which first emerged in the late 19th century, played a significant role in the freedom struggle by aiding the swadeshi movement and actively participating in the implementation of congressional policies. Up until Gandhiji’s arrival, the business class didn’t participate much. They actively participated in the movements for civil disobedience, non-cooperation, and leaving India. Body: Background: Capitalists who were hurt by British economic policy joined Congress and lobbied for progressive economic measures. The majority of industrialists believed that colonial laws restricting business activity were oppressive and wanted them to be changed so that trade and industry could develop and help the Indian economy grow. Function of the Business Class: Purshotamdas, Thakurdas, and G.D. Birla attacked colonial control over the Indian economy and backed the Civil Disobedience Movement as criticisms of British economic policies. Financial support and assistance: FICCI rejects engaging in economic or political negotiations with the British without Congress’ involvement or approval. the funding of the Indian National Congress’s conference and protest planning. For instance, Chidambaram Pillai provided funding for the Madras state INC branch. Swadeshi enterprises: they created industries and produced swadeshi products that offered substitutes for foreign products after a boycott. for instance, Swadeshi textile mills, factories that make soap and matches, tanneries, banks, insurance firms, etc. Self-sufficiency: Indigenous businesses contributed to the Indian economy’s ability to support itself. People who left British industries after protesting to aid the liberation struggle were given job chances. They advocated for beneficial economic measures that would support indigenous businesses. They promoted import protection in general and tax breaks for Indian businesses. As an advocacy organisation that was instrumental in negotiating economic policy, FICCI was established. The Indian Industries and Commercial Congress was established in 1920 and served as a forum for industrialist needs. Economic Planning: For the growth of India’s post-independence economy, a small group of significant business leaders in Bombay developed the Bombay Plan in 1944 and 1945. These were consistent with the liberation movement in India. Gandhiji’s intended role was: Gandhiji saw the business community playing a bigger role than just in the economy. The business community must fight for long-term sustainable economic policies that will benefit India and the Indian people in place of the British government’s short-term economic benefits. Gandhiji believed that business community involvement was essential to the achievement of the swadeshi ideology of struggle. In order to promote Indian and traditional goods like Khadi and other such items, business class has a significant role to play. Trusteeship: The business sector has a social responsibility in addition to its financial obligation to support sarvodaya and antyodaya. Additionally, a long-term goal that spans more than one generation makes the company sustainable. fostering trust and enhancing reputations among all societal groups. Make a value for the community as a result. Employment: Gandhiji opposed the corporate community’s use of blind mechanisation. Jobs would be lost as a result of this. He advised the corporate community to invest in industries that require a lot of labour as a result. Development of rural areas is a responsibility of the business community, according to Gandhiji, who held that villages are where the true India is found. Conclusion: Although the majority of the business class community backed the independence struggle, many expressed scepticism against its use of illegal tactics. As a result, they promoted legal strategies and pursued discussions in their quest for freedom. However, it goes without saying that they actively supported the Indian independence movement. As envisioned by Gandhiji, industrialists like Tata, Chidambaram Pillai, and others took on the role of trustees. The corporate class, which first arose in the late 19th century, played a significant role in the liberation struggle by aiding the swadeshi movement and actively participating in the implementation of congressional programmes. Up to Gandhiji’s arrival, the business class didn’t participate much. They actively participated in the movements for civil disobedience, non-cooperation, and leaving India.

24 SEPTEMBER 2022 – MAINS DAILY QUESTIONS & MODEL ANSWERS: Q1. What is Black Swan Event?   Paper & Topic: GS III  Science and Technology Model Answer: About the “black swan” event: A black swan is an uncommon, unforeseen event that shocks people and has a major effect on society or the entire world. These events are said to have three distinctive features: they are incredibly unusual and outside the range of typical expectations; they have a significant impact after they occur; and they appear probable in retrospect when reasonable explanations emerge. When did the phrase first appear? Nassim Nicholas Taleb, a writer and investor, first proposed the black swan idea in 2001. His 2007 book, The Black Swan: The Impact of the Highly Improbable, later made the theory well-known. The word “black swan” itself has a connection to its discovery. Up until 1697, when a Dutch adventurer discovered the first black swan in Australia, Europeans thought all swans were white. The term “black swan incident” comes from this rare observation in the 17th century, which fundamentally altered how people in the West thought about swans. Conclusion: Taleb’s book was published before the global financial crisis of 2008, a “black swan” occurrence brought on by a rapid collapse of the soaring US housing market. The collapse of the Soviet Union and the September 11, 2001, terrorist strike in the US also fit under this category. Q2. What is Critical Information Infrastructure. Discuss.   Paper & Topic: GS III  Science and Technology/Infrastructure related issues Model Answer: About: According to the Information Technology Act of 2000, critical information infrastructure is any computer resource whose loss would have a negative impact on the economy, public health, or safety, as well as on national security. The IT Act of 2000 gives the government the authority to designate any data, database, IT network, or communications infrastructure as CII in order to safeguard that digital asset. A prison sentence of up to 10 years may be imposed on anyone who illegally secures access to or attempts to secure access to a protected system. What Justifies the Need for CII Classification and Protection? Global Practice: Governments from all across the world have been acting quickly to secure their vital information infrastructure. IT resources are the backbone of numerous crucial processes in a nation’s infrastructure, and due to their interdependence, any disruptions can have a ripple effect on various industries. Failure in IT ruins other industries: Power grid outages caused by information technology issues can have a devastating effect on other industries like healthcare, banking, and other financial services. Example: Denial-of-Service Attacks on a Massive Scale in Estonia: A series of denial-of-service assaults, purportedly launched from Russian IP addresses, struck important Estonian banks, the parliament, government agencies, and media outlets in 2007. It was cyberaggression on a scale never before witnessed in history. For almost three weeks after the assaults, one of the world’s most networked nations saw chaos. A Denial-of-Service (DoS) attack aims to bring down a computer system or network so that its intended users are unable to access it. DoS attacks achieve this by providing the victim an excessive amount of traffic or information that causes a crash. Case Study: India: As India faced the pandemic in October 2020, Mumbai’s electric grid supply abruptly failed, affecting the megacity’s hospitals, trains, and businesses. Later, a US company’s analysis suggested that this power loss may have been the result of a cyberattack on vital infrastructure, purportedly launched by a group with ties to China. However, the authorities swiftly refuted any Mumbai cyberattack. However, the incident highlighted both the need to fortify such assets and the prospect of hostile state and non-state actors probing internet-dependent critical infrastructure in other countries. In India, how are CIIs safeguarded? As a Nodal Agency, NCIIPC: The National Critical Information Infrastructure Protection Centre (NCIIPC), established in January 2014, is the focal point for implementing all protective measures for the country’s critical information infrastructure. Conclusion: Protection from illegal access, modification, usage, disclosure, disruption, incapacitation, or distraction is required for CIIs. In order to inform policy decisions, share knowledge, and maintain situational awareness for early warning or alerts, it will track and forecast threats to CII at the national level. The NCIIPC may request information from the critical sectors or people serving or having a critical influence on the critical information infrastructure in the case of any danger to such infrastructure. Fundamental Duty: The organisation that manages the CII system has primary responsibility for keeping it secure.

23 SEPTEMBER 2022 – MAINS DAILY QUESTIONS & MODEL ANSWERS: Q1. What is the status of India’s relationship with the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)?   Paper & Topic: GS II  International Relations Model Answer: As the country with the second-largest Muslim population in the world, India had been invited to the founding convention in Rabat in 1969, but was humiliatingly evicted at Pakistan’s request. India stayed out for a number of reasons, including its reluctance to associate with an organisation that had a religious basis. In a grouping, there was a potential that efforts to deepen bilateral ties with certain member states may be put at risk, especially when it came to issues like Kashmir. During the 45th session of the Foreign Ministers’ Summit in 2018, Pakistan protested Bangladesh’s request that India, where more than 10% of the world’s Muslims live, be awarded Observer status. Following the development of tight connections with significant members like the UAE and Saudi Arabia, India has been assured in its ability to respond to any statement made by the group. As India has frequently emphasised, J&K is a “integral part of India and is a subject wholly domestic to India,” and the OIC has no locus standi with respect to the subject. India made its debut appearance at the OIC Foreign Ministers’ conference in 2019 as a “guest of honour.” This invitation was welcomed as a diplomatic triumph for India, especially in light of the present condition of intensified hostility between India and Pakistan following the Pulwama attack. What has the OIC/India controversy been about recently? OIC Statement: The OIC has asked the UN Human Rights Council to take “necessary actions” in response to Muslim girl pupils being told not to wear the hijab in Karnataka schools. The OIC also urged India to “protect the Muslim community’s way of life while assuring their safety, security, and well-being.” India’s Response: India said that it is a democracy and that domestic disagreements are resolved in accordance with the principles, guidelines, and democratic nature of the Constitution. In an obvious dig at Pakistan, India has criticised the OIC for being “communal oriented” and “hijacked by entrenched interests.” Q2. What do you understand by wasting and stunting?   Paper & Topic: GS II  International Relations Model Answer: What Stunting Is: Stunting is the term used to describe low height for age. It is the result of ongoing or repeated undernutrition, which is commonly associated with poverty, poor maternal health and nutrition, ongoing illness, and/or inappropriate infant feeding and care. Kids who perform stunts do not reach their full physical and intellectual potential. Wasting: Wasting is a low weight-to-height ratio. Although it may endure for a very long time, it often denotes a rapid loss of weight. When a person hasn’t eaten enough food—both in quantity and quality—or when they’ve been ill regularly or for a long period, it typically occurs. Children who experience wasting run a higher risk of dying if ignored. Malnutrition: Inadequate or excessive nutritional intake, an imbalanced intake of essential nutrients, or poor nutrient utilisation are characteristics of malnutrition. The double burden of malnutrition includes noncommunicable diseases linked to diet-related noncommunicable diseases as well as undernutrition, overweight, and obesity. Stunting, wasting, being underweight, and micronutrient deficiencies are the four most common symptoms of undernutrition.

22 SEPTEMBER 2022 – MAINS DAILY QUESTIONS & MODEL ANSWERS: Q1. What are the powers and duties conferred to the Speaker of the Lok Sabha?   Paper & Topic: GS II Parliament related issues Model Answer: About: The Office of the Speaker in India is a dynamic organisation that responds to the needs and problems that Parliament actually encounters while doing its tasks. Article 93 of the Constitution specifies that both the Speaker and Deputy Speaker are elected. The Speaker serves as the House’s ceremonial and legal leader. Each House of Parliament has a distinct presiding officer. There is a Speaker and Deputy Speaker for the Lok Sabha, and a Chairman and Deputy Chairman for the Rajya Sabha. History: The Speaker and Deputy Speaker institutions debuted in India in 1921 as per the provisions of the Government of India Act of 1919. (Reforms of Montague and Chelmsford). Up to 1947, the Speaker and Deputy Speaker were known to as the President and the Deputy President, respectively. The Government of India Act of 1935 changed the titles of Speaker and Deputy Speaker from President and Deputy President, respectively. Speaker’s office in the Lok Sabha: The Speaker, who is in charge of the daily operations of the House, is chosen by the Lok Sabha, the nation’s highest legislative body. The Lok Sabha Speaker is chosen as one of the first tasks for any newly elected House. Election for Speaker of the House: According to the Indian Constitution, the Speaker must be a member of the house. Although there are no specific prerequisites established for being elected as the Speaker, knowledge of the Constitution and the laws of the country is considered to be a key advantage for the office’s incumbent. Usually, the Speaker is selected from among the members of the ruling party. The ruling party nominates its candidate in accordance with a process that has evolved over the years after informal consultations with the leaders of other parties and groupings in the House. By adhering to this custom, the Speaker will earn the respect of the entire House once they have been selected. Voting: The Speaker (together with the Deputy Speaker) is chosen from among the Lok Sabha members by a simple majority of the MPs present and voting in the House. After a decision has been reached, the Prime Minister or the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs frequently suggests the candidate’s name. Speaker’s Tenure: The Speaker’s term in office lasts from the day of his or her election to the day before the first meeting of the following Lok Sabha (for 5 years). The speaker can run for reelection after being chosen. Whenever the Lok Sabha is dissolved, the Speaker continues to serve until the newly-elected Lok Sabha meets. Speaker’s abilities and duties: He or she has the last say in the House over how the Indian Constitution’s articles, the Lok Sabha’s rules of procedure, and parliamentary precedents should be read. He or she frequently makes judgments in matters affecting the application of these laws that are regarded by members and have legal weight. He or she is responsible for directing a joint meeting of the two Houses of Parliament. Such a meeting is called by the President to break a deadlock over a bill between the two Houses. A tenth of the members of the House must be present in order to adjourn or suspend a session of the House (called the quorum). Voting: When the House is evenly divided on a matter, the Speaker has the authority to cast the deciding vote. In the first instance, the Speaker abstains from voting. A casting vote, which is used to break ties, is one of several types of votes. Money Measure: This person makes the final determination of whether or not a bill is a money bill. Disqualification of Members: The speaker decides whether to disqualify a Lok Sabha member for defecting in accordance with the provisions of the Tenth Schedule. According to the 52nd amendment to the Indian Constitution, the Speaker has these authority. The Speaker’s decision in this case is subject to judicial scrutiny, according to a 1992 Supreme Court ruling. The Indian Parliamentary Group (IPG), which acts as a bridge between the Indian Parliament and the numerous other parliaments throughout the world, has him or her as its ex-officio chairman. He also represents the nation as the conference of presiding officers of legislative bodies’ ex-officio chairman. Members of the House Committees, who operate under the Speaker’s overall direction, are appointed by the Speaker. The Chairmen of each parliamentary committee are chosen by him or her. The Rules Committee, the Business Advisory Committee, and the General Purposes Committee are under his direct chairmanship. House privileges: The Speaker is in charge of defending the rights of the House’s Committees, Members, and privileges. At the sole discretion of the Speaker, any matter of privilege may be referred to the Committee of Privileges for evaluation, investigation, and a report. With very few instances, the Speaker is in office for the full Lok Sabha session. The speaker may, however, be required to leave the office earlier under the following situations: if he decides to leave the Lok Sabha. if he submits a written resignation to the Deputy Speaker. if a majority of the Lok Sabha members vote in favour of a move to oust him. Notice: Only 14 days’ notice is required to move a resolution of this kind. When the House is debating a resolution to remove the Speaker, the Speaker may attend the meeting but is not permitted to preside. Q2. Write a short note on POSHAN Abhiyaan?   Paper & Topic: GS II à Government Policies and Interventions Model Answer: With a budget of Rs. 1.31 trillion, the Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman, also known as PM-POSHAN, was approved by the Union Cabinet in September 2021 with the goal of providing one hot cooked meal at government and government-aided schools. The Mid-day Meal Scheme, a national initiative that provided lunch in