Q1. India’s Neighborhood First’ approach is negatively influenced by constitutional crises in the country’s immediate neighborhood. Discuss recent occurrences. (250 words) Paper & Topic: GS II – India and its neighborhood- relations. Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora. Model Answer: Introduction: The BIMSTEC — a grouping that comprises practically all countries in South Asia and some in South-East Asia—is included in India’s Neighbourhood First Policy, which gives priority to nations in India’s periphery. It works hard to strengthen connections with India’s immediate neighbors. It focuses on collaboration based on neighboring countries’ needs and requirements. The idea of non-seeking reciprocity is also at the heart of the policy. Body: The neighboring countries’ constitutional crisis is as follows: In his inaugural address to Parliament, newly elected Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa stated his intention to abolish the landmark 19th Amendment to the Constitution and work toward a new constitution. Sri Lanka will write a new Constitution, repealing the 19th Amendment, which limited the President’s powers and increased the role of Parliament. During the last general elections, the Rajapaksas won a two-thirds majority in parliament, clearing the path for constitutional revisions. The President’s comments on the draft Constitution can be interpreted as indicating a shift away from the concept of devolution. If the idea of sharing more power with the provinces is completely abandoned, it will be backward. It would be a distortion of democratic principles if the independence of institutions like the Election Commission (EC) is now curtailed in the pretext of repealing the 19th Amendment. Furthermore, there was no mention of ethnic minorities in the President’s speech. The following are the reasons for the proposed constitutional amendments: The President’s executive powers were restricted and handed to parliament and independent commissions in the 19th Constitutional Amendment, which was enacted in 2015. Many of the Executive Presidency’s powers, which have been in place since 1978, will be weakened by the legislation. It entails: The President’s and Parliament’s terms have been reduced from six to five years. Reintroduce a presidential term limit of two terms. Only after four and a half years does the President have the ability to dissolve Parliament. The Constitutional Council should be resurrected, and independent commissions should be established. The President retains control of the Cabinet and can select Ministers on the Prime Minister’s advice. The Rajapaksa family claimed that the amendment was introduced with the intent of deliberately targeting them. Due to the term limit, Mahinda Rajapaksa was unable to run for president in November, and his younger brother Gotabaya was elected instead. India’s Effects: The issue of the Tamils, who are an ethnic minority group, would resurface as a result of the proposed constitutional changes. In the past, this has been a source of friction in bilateral relations between India and Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka could play the China card once more, emboldening China’s ‘String of Pearls’ effort and putting India’s security in the Indian Ocean region in jeopardy. Steps to take/Conclusion: A new inclusive constitution is urgently needed to set the country on the road to equality and peace. The attempt to amend the Constitution under the guise of implementing the “one country, one law” principle should not conflict with this requirement. While remaining attentive to Sri Lanka’s security concerns, India should advocate for reconciliation initiatives for the Tamils in Sri Lanka. Q2. The lauded Medical Termination of Pregnancy (Amendment) Bill of 2021 ignores women’s bodily autonomy and oozes of ableism. Examine the issue critically. (250 words) Paper & Topic: GS II – Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources Model Answer: Introduction: The Medical Termination of Pregnancy (Amendment) Bill, 2021, was recently passed by the Rajya Sabha in March, 2021. In 2020, the lower house passed the bill. This is a significant bill that aims to improve women’s reproductive rights in India. The Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act of 1971 is being amended by this bill. In India, this Act regulates abortions. It was revised twice, in 1975 and 2002. Abortion was illegal in India prior to the passage of this law, according to Section 312 of the Indian Penal Code. Body: The New Bill’s Proposed Features: The bill allows abortions to be performed up to 20 weeks after a single medical practitioner’s recommendation. Two doctors’ opinions are required to terminate pregnancies between 20 and 24 weeks. Special categories of women, such as rape/incest victims, differently-abled women, and children, are granted an extension of the gestation period up to 24 weeks. Abortions after 24 weeks will be decided on by a state-level Medical Board if there are significant foetal abnormalities. A gynaecologist, a paediatrician, a radiologist or sonographer, and any other number of members as determined by the state government will make up the Board. Abortions can only be performed by specialists who specialise in gynaecology/obstetrics. The “name and other particulars of a woman whose pregnancy has been terminated shall not be revealed,” according to the Bill, unless to a person authorised by law. When abortions are requested to end pregnancies resulting from rape and the gestation period is longer than 24 weeks, the only option is to file a writ petition. The rationale for the amendments is as follows: The expansion is significant, according to the administration, because some women realise they require an abortion after the first 20 weeks of pregnancy. The foetal anomaly scan is usually performed during the 20th and 21st weeks of pregnancy. If this scan is delayed and it finds a deadly anomaly in the foetus, the time limit is 20 weeks. The increase in the limit would make the procedure easier for distressed pregnant women, allowing the mainstream system to care for them and provide adequate medical treatment. Significance: The initiative to alter the MTP Act of 1971 is a step forward towards women’s liberation. Abortion is regarded a crucial component of women’s reproductive health, therefore it will give them
25 AUGUST 2022 – DAILY MAINS QUESTIONS & SYNOPSIS:
Q1. The economic complement to political federalism is fiscal federalism. Provide appropriate examples to illustrate your point. (250 words) Paper & Topic: GS III – Indian Economy Model Answer: Introduction: The financial interactions between units of government in a federal government system are known as fiscal federalism. It’s part of a larger public-finance framework. Richard Musgrave, a German-born American economist, coined the term in 1959. The separation of governmental activities and financial links among tiers of government is referred to as fiscal federalism. Body: India has a federal government, which means it has a federal fiscal system. The backbone of a federal government’s successful operation is financial independence and adequacy. The necessity for fiscal federalism was stressed in the Economic Survey 2017-18. Fiscal federalism and political federalism are linked: Fiscal federalism is concerned with the delegation of functions to various levels of government on the one hand, and the use of suitable fiscal tools to carry out these functions on the other. The central government is widely regarded to be required to deliver national public goods that benefit the entire people. Defense is a common example given. Sub-national governments are required to offer commodities and services that are only consumed within their borders. The identification of the exact fiscal tools that would enable the various levels of government to carry out their tasks is an equally essential subject in fiscal federalism. This is known as the ‘tax-assignment issue.’ It is generally agreed that non-benefit taxes and taxes on movable units should be avoided at the decentralised levels of government. Income tax is only levied by the central government in India, albeit it is shared with the states. Many countries have an inter-governmental transfer system in place to address the possibility of resource and responsibility imbalances. The Indian Constitution establishes the functions of the Centre and States, as well as their taxing powers. Every Finance Commission has handled issues linked to the rectification of vertical and horizontal imbalances against this backdrop, taking into consideration the current set of circumstances. Transfers from the federal government to the states, on the other hand, are not limited to the recommendations of the Finance Commissions. Other options include the Planning Commission, which existed until recently, and the Central Government’s discretionary grants. Concerns and obstacles that go along with it: Trends in Tax Revenue: A comparison of the proportion of central and state-owned taxes and expenditures reveals that the states own 38 percent and 58 percent of their own tax revenue and expenditure, respectively. This reflects the states’ higher-than-proportionate expenditure commitments, as well as their limited revenue-raising powers in comparison to the federal government. After the 80th Constitutional Amendment, the net earnings of all taxes levied by the union, except surcharges and cesses, are divided with the states under Article 270 of the Constitution. Article 279 of the Constitution defines net revenues as the center’s gross tax revenue less surcharges and cesses, as well as collection costs. The amount of net proceeds, however, is not included in the union’s budget statements. However, the proportion of surcharges and cesses in the federal government’s gross tax collection is increasing, counteracting the higher shares proposed by previous finance commissions. FRBM Acts and Asymmetric Impacts: In the early 2000s, the FRBM Acts were passed at the national and state levels. It was solely focused on meeting objectives. In exchange, if revenues could not be increased, expenditure (even if it was necessary) would be reduced. States have been required to restrict their deficits due to financial commission punishments, although the federal government is not bound by any such conditions. States have inefficient cash management because they are afraid of the implications of not adhering to deficit targets, which are not only a legislative constraint but also a conditionality enforced by finance commissions. Steps to take/Conclusion: Perhaps now is the moment to alter the Constitution to ensure that the percentage of shared taxes that should go to the states is set at the appropriate amount. Because cesses and surcharges have risen dramatically in recent years, they must be included in the sharing tax pool. It appears reasonable to set the ratio at 42 percent of shareable taxes, including cesses and surcharges. Another option is to adopt the approach of the United States and Canada, which is to enable states to impose personal income taxes with limited restrictions. States must be restricted in their freedom. It’s crucial to highlight that the levy levied by the federal government and the states should be reasonable. The transfers from the Centre will also need to be adjusted once this power is given to the States. Horizontal Distribution: In India, the ability to achieve equalisation between states is limited. Even the relatively wealthier countries face problems and feel cheated as a result of the overuse of the equity criterion. Particularly in light of the surge in unconditional payments, a proper balancing of criteria is required. Q2. It is imperative that the best of what digital currencies have to offer be integrated into the existing financial paradigm. Explain. (250 words) Paper & Topic: GS III – Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development and employment. Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life. Model Answer: Introduction: Cryptocurrencies are digital currencies that operate independently of a central bank and employ encryption techniques to govern the production of units of money and verify the transfer of funds. It is built on the blockchain platform. Anurag Thakur, the Union minister, stated that the government is willing to analyse and investigate emerging technologies, such as cryptocurrencies, in order to improve governance. Body: In India, cryptocurrencies are gaining popularity. In 2018, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) outlawed banks and companies regulated by it from providing virtual currency (VC) services. The Indian cryptocurrency sector has been decimated since the prohibition took effect in April 2018. This provision was declared illegal by the Supreme Court. The central government is expected to consider a new
24 AUGUST 2022 – DAILY MAINS QUESTIONS & SYNOPSIS:
Q1. Write a short note on Quantum Technology. (250 words) Paper & Topic: GS III – Science and Technology related topics Model Answer: Introduction: Quantum supremacy refers to a device’s ability to solve issues that traditional computers can’t. When compared to the fastest supercomputers available, it is the ability to complete complex computations in a relatively short amount of time. John Preskill, a theoretical physicist at Caltech, created this expression in 2012 to characterise the point at which quantum computers can perform things that classical computers can’t. Body: Google just stated that it has achieved quantum supremacy. Quantum computers are based on the quantum mechanics premise. Google stated that their sycamore quantum computer tackled extremely difficult issues in 200 seconds. Quantum computing’s potential applications include: Medical care: Research: The size and complexity of molecules that can be simulated and compared by traditional computers is limited (an essential process in early drug development). The number of possible interactions between these atoms is exponential if we have an input of size N, where N is the number of atoms in the investigated molecules (each atom can interact with all the others). Larger molecules will be simulated using quantum computers. Simultaneously, researchers will be able to study and simulate drug interactions with all 20,000+ proteins encoded in the human genome, resulting in higher pharmacological advances. Quantum technologies could be employed in a range of applications to give faster, more accurate diagnostics. Machine learning, which is currently being used to enhance pattern detection, will benefit from increased AI capabilities. High-resolution MRI equipment will provide more detail and will assist clinicians in illness screening. Treatment: Targeted treatments, such as radiotherapy, rely on the ability to quickly model and simulate complex scenarios in order to provide the best treatment possible. Using quantum computers, therapists would be able to conduct more simulations in less time, reducing radiation harm to healthy tissue. Funding: Algorithmic trading – the use of complex algorithms to automatically trigger share dealings depending on a wide variety of market variables – is one potential application for quantum technologies. The benefits are enormous, especially for high-volume transactions. Pattern recognition is used in fraud detection, just as it is in diagnostics in healthcare. Quantum computers have the potential to greatly increase machine learning capabilities, lowering the time it takes to train a neural network and increasing the detection rate. Promotion: Quantum computers will be able to collect and analyse massive amounts of consumer data from many sources. Big data analytics will enable businesses and governments to accurately target individual consumers and voters with messaging tailored to their interests, influencing consumer spending and election outcomes. The science of weather: Accurate weather forecasts are difficult to generate because there are so many variables to consider. The use of quantum computers for machine learning will increase pattern recognition, making it easier to predict extreme weather events and potentially save thousands of lives each year. Climate scientists will also be able to create and analyse more complex climate models, giving them a better understanding of climate change and how to reduce its harmful effects. Transportation and logistics: A wide range of sectors will be able to optimise workflows linked with transportation, logistics, and supply-chain management thanks to improved data analysis and modelling. Traffic management, fleet operations, air traffic control, freight and distribution could all benefit from the computation and recalculation of optimal routes. Disaster Preparedness: With quantum applications, tsunamis, droughts, earthquakes, and floods may become more foreseeable. Quantum technology can help to simplify the collection of data on climate change. This, in turn, will have a significant impact on agriculture, food technology chains, and farmland waste reduction. Communication that is secure: Secure quantum communication lines between terrestrial stations and satellites were recently demonstrated by China. Satellites, the military, and cyber security are all interested in this sector because it promises users impossibly rapid computers and secure, unhackable satellite communication. The Indian scenario with quantum computing: Globally, study in this field has been going on for roughly two decades, but real experimental work in India has only been going on for around five years. In 2018, the government began serious discussions on quantum technology and launched 51 research projects under the QUEST (Quantum Enabled Science and Technology) initiative. However, until the NMQTA, no meaningful progress is done in this field. The newly formed National Mission on Quantum Technologies and Applications has been allocated 8,000 crore ($ 1.2 billion) in the Union Budget 2020-21. (NMQTA). The mission aims to create quantum computing-related technologies in the midst of the second quantum revolution, with the goal of making India the world’s third largest quantum computing nation after the United States and China. Conclusion: Quantum computing has the ability to overcome the current restrictions imposed by regular computer power, resulting in advancements in agriculture, biotechnology, finance, healthcare, and cyber security, among other fields. This will aid the globe in overcoming current difficulties like as food insecurity, climate change cybercrime, a lack of new antibiotics to combat superbugs, as well as money laundering and terror financing. Although still in its early stages, quantum supremacy has huge future promise for humanity. Q2. Discuss the status of Digital Payments in India. (250 words) Paper & Topic: GS III – Science and Technology related topics Model Answer: Introduction: A digital payment is an online or digital transaction that does not include a physical exchange of money. This means that both the payer and the payee exchange money via electronic means. Since demonetisation in 2016, the Indian government has been aggressively supporting and advertising internet payments. Many economic and financial decisions prompted Indians to move to online payments were guided by the concept of ‘Digital India.’ By 2023, 66.6 billion transactions totaling $270.7 billion in India are likely to transition from cash to cards and digital payments, according to an ET article. Body: In India, the Evolution of Digital Payments: India’s payments framework – particularly the digital payments system – has been rapidly evolving over the past several years,
23 AUGUST 2022 – DAILY MAINS QUESTIONS & SYNOPSIS:
Q1. Discuss the characteristics of tribal movements in India during British control using appropriate instances. (250 words) Paper & Topic: GS I – Modern Indian History Model Answer: Introduction: Mizos (1810), Kols (1795 and 1831), Mundas (1889), Daflas (1875), Khasi and Garo (1829), Kacharis (1839), Santhals (1853), Muria Gonds (1886), Nagas (1844 and 1879), Bhuiyas (1868), and Kondhas (1817) were among the prominent tribes involved in insurrection during the colonial period. Body: Tribal groups played a vital and integral role in Indian culture. They had their own social and economic systems before to conquest and subsequent assimilation into British possessions. The tribals’ requirements were met by these systems, which were traditional in character. The tribal society suffered as a result of British policy. This obliterated their economy and communities, which had previously been largely self-sufficient. Tribal groups from several places rose up against the British. Because they were geared against the colonial administration, their movements were anti-colonial. The following points might help you understand the features of tribal movements in India during British rule: There were two sorts of tribal anti-colonial movements: 1. movements against oppressors such as landlords, moneylenders, traders, thekedars (contractors), government officials, and Christian missionaries, and 2. movements affiliated to and integrated with the Indian National movement. The first set of movements can be classified as anti-colonial because they were directed at the classes that were created as a result of British colonialism and who aided the tribals. The tribals regarded these classes as foreigners. Moneylenders and landlords took tribal lands when tribals were unable to repay their loans or the interest on them. As a result, the tribals became tenants on their own land, and in certain cases, bound labourers. They were never helped by the police or revenue officers. Not only were the judges oblivious of the tribal agrarian system and customs, but they were also unaware of the tribals’ misery. Many tribes such as the Munda, Santhals, Kol, Bhils, Warli, and others in Assam, Orissa, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, and Maharashtra revolted as a result of land alienation, usurpation, forced labour, minimum pay, and land grabbing. In their respective regions, they began movements against their oppressors. Their anti-colonial protests could be classified as anti-colonial. Outsiders (dikus) — landlords, moneylenders, thekedars and missionaries, as well as European government officials – were designated as their foes by Birsa Munda, who promised his people a golden period after removing the outsiders from their country. Overall, these movements had social and religious overtones, but they were motivated by difficulties around their own existence. For example, Jatra Bhagat founded the Jatra Bhagat and Tana Bhagat Movement in 1914. It was a movement promoting monotheism, vegetarianism, abstinence from meat and alcohol, and tribal dance. Anti-colonialism and domestic reforms were emphasised by the Jatra Bhagat and Tana Bhagat movements. Forest management has also sparked rebellion among some tribes, as forests are the primary source of income in some areas. The laws not only denied tribals access to a variety of forest resources, but they also subjected them to persecution by forest officials. This prompted tribes in Andhra Pradesh and other states to organise. For instance, the Rampa revolt led by Alluri Sitaramaraju. These ‘movements’ began under the direction of their respective leaders. Although the movements originated on social and religious problems, as well as against outsider oppression, they eventually amalgamated with the National movement and the anti-tax campaign. The tribals used traditional weaponry such as bows, arrows, lathis, and axes to fight their opponents. Their campaign frequently devolved into violence, leading in the assassination of oppressors and the torching of their homes. For instance, consider the Ramoshi insurrection in the Bombay suburbs. The government brutally suppressed the majority of the movements. The tribals were forced to follow British policies that were harmful to their interests. However, in response to these setbacks, the government implemented protective administration in tribal areas. The government passed the I Scheduled District Act (1874) and the Govt. of India Act of 1935, which classified tribal territories as excluded areas. Conclusion: During the colonial period, tribals were among the exploited social groups. Tribal movements in India were confined to a few places as a result of the conquest and later assimilation of tribal areas into British territories, but they were still part of the greater national struggle against colonial powers. Q2. Examine Bengal’s role in India’s independence struggle. (250 words) Paper & Topic: GS I – Modern Indian History Model Answer: Introduction: Bengal, or West Bengal, is well-known for its significant contribution to the Indian Independence Movement. Bengal became a hotbed of the Indian independence movement and the epicentre of the Bengali Renaissance in the early twentieth century. Following the Swadeshi Movement in the first decade of the twentieth century, revolutionary nationalism developed as a powerful political movement in Bengal. The Swadeshi Movement was born out of Bengal’s fury over the division of the province of Bengal in 1905. Body: Bengal’s contributions to India’s freedom struggle: The Sanyasi revolt in Bengal lasted from 1763 to 1800. It was essentially a peasant insurrection that began in Dhaka (now Bangladesh’s capital) and stretched all the way to Bihar, with up to 50,000 rebels. The Indigo uprising was mostly nonviolent, and it served as a forerunner to Gandhiji’s later nonviolent satyagraha. The dramatisation of the revolution in the play Nil Darpan, as well as numerous other works of prose and poetry, made the revolt extremely popular. As a result, the revolt became a focal point in Bengal’s political consciousness, influencing many subsequent movements in the Indian liberation struggle. By equating the Motherland with the Mother-Goddess, Bankim Chandra Chatterjee elevated nationalism to the level of religion. He authored the poem ‘Vande Mataram’ in Anandamath. To introduce social and educational reforms to women, the Bengal Renaissance established many journal houses and collaborated with various newspapers and journalistic publications such as Tattwabadhini Patrika, samprakash, sarbashubhankarr Patrika, and Hindu patriot. The Indian national movement gained a stronger social basis as a result
22 AUGUST 2022 – DAILY MAINS QUESTIONS & SYNOPSIS:
Q1. What is quantum supremacy, and how does it work? Why was it lately in the news? What are the potential applications of such a technological breakthrough? Examine. (250 words) Paper & Topic: GS III – Science and Technology related topics Model Answer: Introduction: Quantum supremacy refers to a device’s ability to solve issues that traditional computers can’t. When compared to the fastest supercomputers available, it is the ability to complete complex computations in a relatively short amount of time. John Preskill, a theoretical physicist at Caltech, created this expression in 2012 to characterise the point at which quantum computers can perform things that classical computers can’t. Body: Google just stated that it has achieved quantum supremacy. Quantum computers are based on the quantum mechanics premise. Google stated that their sycamore quantum computer tackled extremely difficult issues in 200 seconds. Quantum computing’s potential applications include: Medical care: Research: The size and complexity of molecules that can be simulated and compared by traditional computers is limited (an essential process in early drug development). The number of possible interactions between these atoms is exponential if we have an input of size N, where N is the number of atoms in the investigated molecules (each atom can interact with all the others). Larger molecules will be simulated using quantum computers. Simultaneously, researchers will be able to study and simulate drug interactions with all 20,000+ proteins encoded in the human genome, resulting in higher pharmacological advances. Quantum technologies could be employed in a range of applications to give faster, more accurate diagnostics. Machine learning, which is currently being used to enhance pattern detection, will benefit from increased AI capabilities. High-resolution MRI equipment will provide more detail and will assist clinicians in illness screening. Treatment: Targeted treatments, such as radiotherapy, rely on the ability to quickly model and simulate complex scenarios in order to provide the best treatment possible. Using quantum computers, therapists would be able to conduct more simulations in less time, reducing radiation harm to healthy tissue. Funding: Algorithmic trading – the use of complex algorithms to automatically trigger share dealings depending on a wide variety of market variables – is one potential application for quantum technologies. The benefits are enormous, especially for high-volume transactions. Pattern recognition is used in fraud detection, just as it is in diagnostics in healthcare. Quantum computers have the potential to greatly increase machine learning capabilities, lowering the time it takes to train a neural network and increasing the detection rate. Promotion: Quantum computers will be able to collect and analyse massive amounts of consumer data from many sources. Big data analytics will enable businesses and governments to accurately target individual consumers and voters with messaging tailored to their interests, influencing consumer spending and election outcomes. The science of weather: Accurate weather forecasts are difficult to generate because there are so many variables to consider. The use of quantum computers for machine learning will increase pattern recognition, making it easier to predict extreme weather events and potentially save thousands of lives each year. Climate scientists will also be able to create and analyse more complex climate models, giving them a better understanding of climate change and how to reduce its harmful effects. Transportation and logistics: A wide range of sectors will be able to optimise workflows linked with transportation, logistics, and supply-chain management thanks to improved data analysis and modelling. Traffic management, fleet operations, air traffic control, freight and distribution could all benefit from the computation and recalculation of optimal routes. Disaster Preparedness: With quantum applications, tsunamis, droughts, earthquakes, and floods may become more foreseeable. Quantum technology can help to simplify the collection of data on climate change. This, in turn, will have a significant impact on agriculture, food technology chains, and farmland waste reduction. Communication that is secure: Secure quantum communication lines between terrestrial stations and satellites were recently demonstrated by China. Satellites, the military, and cyber security are all interested in this sector because it promises users impossibly rapid computers and secure, unhackable satellite communication. The Indian scenario with quantum computing: Globally, study in this field has been going on for roughly two decades, but real experimental work in India has only been going on for around five years. In 2018, the government began serious discussions on quantum technology and launched 51 research projects under the QUEST (Quantum Enabled Science and Technology) initiative. However, until the NMQTA, no meaningful progress is done in this field. The newly formed National Mission on Quantum Technologies and Applications has been allocated 8,000 crore ($ 1.2 billion) in the Union Budget 2020-21. (NMQTA). The mission aims to create quantum computing-related technologies in the midst of the second quantum revolution, with the goal of making India the world’s third largest quantum computing nation after the United States and China. Conclusion: Quantum computing has the ability to overcome the current restrictions imposed by regular computer power, resulting in advancements in agriculture, biotechnology, finance, healthcare, and cyber security, among other fields. This will aid the globe in overcoming current difficulties like as food insecurity, climate change cybercrime, a lack of new antibiotics to combat superbugs, as well as money laundering and terror financing. Although still in its early stages, quantum supremacy has huge future promise for humanity. Q2. In recent years, the field of digital payments has seen enormous technological changes. Examine why a country like India needs a digital payment system as a substitute to traditional paper currency. (250 words) Paper & Topic: GS III – Science and Technology related topics Model Answer: Introduction: A digital payment is an online or digital transaction that does not include a physical exchange of money. This means that both the payer and the payee exchange money via electronic means. Since demonetisation in 2016, the Indian government has been aggressively supporting and advertising internet payments. Many economic and financial decisions prompted Indians to move to online payments were guided by the concept of ‘Digital India.’ By 2023, 66.6 billion transactions totaling $270.7 billion in India
20 AUGUST 2022 – DAILY MAINS QUESTIONS & SYNOPSIS:
Q1. Investigate the use of monoclonal antibodies in India for the treatment of Covid-19 patients. Write about its potential for treating disorders other than Covid-19. (250 words) Paper & Topic: GS III – Science and Technology related topics Model Answer: Introduction: A monoclonal antibody is a protein manufactured in a lab that mimics the function of antibodies produced by the immune system in response to infection. A monoclonal antibody enhances or restores the immune response to infections by attaching to a specific molecule on the virus or bacteria, known as an antigen. For the Ebola virus and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), as well as chronic disorders such rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, inflammatory bowel disease, and more, monoclonal antibody treatment has been utilised and evaluated. Body: In India, monoclonal antibodies are used to treat Covid-19 sufferers: The recent increase in COVID-19 cases in the country not only underlined the disease’s unpredictability, but also demonstrated how quickly the virus can develop from mild to severe infections. Success tales have also been heard in India, where a few hospitals have begun to administer the programme. Researchers discovered that a combination of casirivimab and imdevimab — two monoclonal antibody treatments with emergency use authorization from the US Food and Drug Administration — keeps high-risk patients out of the hospital when infected with mild to moderate Covid-19, according to an observational study. Monoclonal antibodies cut their chances of having a symptomatic infection by 80%. Certain monoclonal antibodies may minimise the risk of hospitalisation and death in persons with asymptomatic or mild COVID-19, according to research. During the second wave of Covid in India, the ‘pandemic tiredness’ was readily visible due to work overstretching. Monoclonal therapy would be extremely beneficial because it would minimise the pressure on hospitals and healthcare workers. The treatment is now believed to assist high-risk patients avoid hospitalisation, illness progression, and the use of steroids. Given the dismal status of healthcare in India, particularly in rural areas, this might be a game changer. Scientists are also investigating if this treatment can lessen the likelihood of someone infected with COVID-19 infecting others in their home. Merck has agreed to work with the Serum Institute of India (SII) and the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative (IAVI) to create SARS-CoV-2 neutralising monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). Actemra (tocilizumab), a monoclonal antibody that lowers inflammation caused by COVID-19, is used to treat COVID-19 in hospitalised adults and children aged 2 and up. Monoclonal antibodies’ potential for treating other diseases: The majority of monoclonal antibodies on the market are for noncommunicable disorders including rheumatoid arthritis and cancer. Cancer immunotherapies have saved the lives of millions of individuals around the world in recent decades. Monoclonal antibodies have revolutionised the treatment of a variety of diseases, notably breast cancer, where the medicine Herceptin has been a game changer. Monoclonal antibodies have the potential to revolutionise how we treat and prevent infectious diseases. And there are already indicators of progress. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, two experimental anti-Ebola antibody medicines are being used to excellent effect as part of an emergency access programme. In addition, many antibodies that can fight different strains of HIV are being developed. Conclusion: Existing and developing monoclonal antibody treatments could benefit millions of individuals around the world, including those for Covid-19, which could help bring the pandemic to a stop. Monoclonal antibodies, on the other hand, should be made more affordable by I investing in innovative technologies that can reduce production costs; Developing new business models that allow for different market approaches in low-, middle-, and high-income countries; and, Forming partnerships between public, private, and philanthropic organisations to focus on the needs of developing countries. Q2. Compare and contrast optical and radio frequency communication technologies. (250 words) Paper & Topic: GS III – Science and Technology related topics Model Answer: Introduction Optical communication is information transmission over a long-distance using light. It can be done visually or with the help of electronic instruments. Information is transmitted over space utilising radio waves in radio communication systems. Body: Bandwidth: Metal cables have a substantially lower bandwidth than fibre optic lines. The most major advantage of fibre over other transmission media is the amount of information that can be transmitted per unit time. Radio waves cannot travel above the horizon due to earth curvature, which prevents radio signals above 30 MHz from propagating above the horizon. There are expensive huge parabolic antennas and very powerful amplifiers required to have a viable radio link over 30 MHz over the horizon using troposcatter. Radio waves below 30 MHz can go over the horizon, however this propagation is not constant and varies during the day. Loss of Power: The reduced power loss of an optical fibre allows for longer transmission distances. In a network, the longest acceptable copper distance is 100m, and the longest suggested fibre distance is 2km. The strength of radio waves deteriorates with distance, necessitating the use of repeaters/boosters to increase the signals. Repeaters, ground or satellite, or wired/fiber optical extensions are required for dependable broadband radio wave links above the horizon. Interference: Electromagnetic interference is not a problem with fibre optic lines. It can even be used in electrically noisy areas because the fibre is unaffected by the noise. Radio waves have a hard time entering materials due to their size. A fibre optic cable has roughly 4.5 times the capacity of a wire cable and a cross sectional area that is 30 times smaller than copper. You may drive your automobile while listening to the FM radio thanks to radio waves. Weight: Metal wires are substantially thicker and heavier than fibre optic cables. They also take up less space than wires with the same data capacity. Fiber is easier to install when it is lighter in weight. Security: It’s difficult to tap optical fibres. Emissions cannot be intercepted since they do not emit electromagnetic radiation. Fiber is the most secure media available for conveying sensitive data because tapping the fibre requires a tremendous deal of ability to
19 AUGUST 2022 – DAILY MAINS QUESTIONS & SYNOPSIS:
Q1. Discuss the advantages of 5G technology, as well as its potential and challenges for large-scale deployment in India. (250 words) Paper & Topic: GS III – Science and Technology related topics Model Answer: Introduction: The fifth generation of mobile networks is known as 5G. It’s a unified platform with far more capacity, lower latency, faster data delivery rates, and better spectrum utilisation than earlier mobile services. The 3rd Generation Partnership Project is in charge of defining and driving 5G usage standards (3GPP). Body: The following are some of the advantages of 5G technology: A World That Is More Connected: 5G will provide users with the capacity and bandwidth they require to accommodate technologies like the Internet of Things. As a result, we will be able to better incorporate Artificial Intelligence into our daily lives. Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality services are also supported. Bringing Internet Access to Everyone: The speed of 5G will have an impact on a wide range of sectors and regions. Rural businesses, such as farming and agriculture, require high-speed internet connection to evolve. 5G networks have the potential to unlock such creativity, but how it is implemented is critical. In Densely Populated Areas, Better Coverage: High-speed internet will make small cell deployments more effective, allowing lightweight, easy-to-install network base stations to boost capacity and coverage in densely populated locations. Despite their lower range, they will be able to relieve overburdened networks in cities and other densely populated areas. Networking as a Service (Networking as a Service): Multiple virtual networks can be established on top of a common physical infrastructure using network slicing, allowing different types of applications and services to run on the same infrastructure. This allows telecoms firms to deliver networking on-demand in the same way that we presently access other services on-demand, resulting in a user experience that is virtually identical to that of a physically isolated network. RAN (radio access networks): This is resulting in the emergence of a new ecosystem of players led by smaller and more inventive enterprises, which may pave the way for unknown companies from countries like India to emerge as global mobile infrastructure technology providers. It has the following possible benefits: The manufacturing sector is undergoing a digital transformation. Manufacturers are becoming more efficient as part of Industry 4.0 by incorporating automation and data interchange into their existing production processes to enable more integrated workflows and smarter manufacturing. Industrial IoT technologies are revolutionising many production processes by streamlining and simplifying them. Applications for mixed reality (MR) include: Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) apps are included in the MR Apps. Interesting uses are expected to be explored in industrial and medical environments, in addition to the consumer market (think Pokémon Go). Low-latency 5G services can be used for remote medical procedures, engineering, public safety, and field-service applications, among other things. Entertainment and sports: VR and AR combined with ultra-high-fidelity provided by 5G could revolutionise how spectators interact at these events. Motorsports, in particular, is well suited to virtual reality: viewers may be provided information such as lap times or technical data about vehicles while they compete on the track in a sport like Formula 1. Wireless access that is fixed: Fixed wireless connection could be utilised to deliver high-bandwidth digital services to rural areas that are currently underserved. Mobile operators will be able to compete with wireline, satellite, and cable firms by providing new revenue sources and a faster return on investment. Self-driving cars: The concept that much, if not all, of the car is controlled by technology rather than the driver. To do this, 5G will be necessary since it will provide the connectivity and speed required to transfer massive volumes of data to one another as well as other objects at the same time. 5G must be able to give a completely smooth mobile experience in order for automobiles to stay connected at all times. Challenges: India will require a significant expenditure of Rs 5 lakh crore ($70 billion) to provide 5G to the country. Spectrum is expensive: Indian spectrum prices are among the highest in the world, and the assigned quantity falls far short of international best practises, with 40% of the spectrum remaining unsold. Lack of a standard legislative framework has hampered telecom service providers’ ability to roll out Optical Fiber Cables (OFC) and telecom towers due to delays caused by complex procedures across states, non-uniformity of levies, and administrative approvals. Municipal Regulatory Issues: Many local rules and regulations prevent the speedy and cost-effective deployment of small cells in city centres, where 5G is likely to be most in demand at first. Debt situation in the industry: Telecommunications service providers (TSPs) have a total debt of Rs 4.2 lakh crore, according to ICRA. India lacks a strong backhaul to migrate to 5G due to low optical fibre penetration. A network that connects cell sites to a central exchange is known as backhaul. Currently, 80 percent of cell sites are connected by microwave backhaul, with just 20% of sites connected via fibre. High Equipment Importation: Imports account for 90% of India’s telecom equipment market. However, due to a dearth of domestic manufacturing and research and development, Indian telecom operators have little choice but to purchase and deploy 5G technologies from international suppliers. Security: According to the International Telecommunication Union’s (ITU) Global Cyber Security Index, only around half of all countries have a cybersecurity plan or are in the process of developing one. India was ranked 23rd on the index, which was topped by Singapore with 0.925. Increased digital divide: Due to commercial feasibility, initial rollout of 5G networks in dense urban areas may leave rural areas behind, thus increasing the digital divide. Human exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields: Concerns have been raised concerning the effects of these frequencies on human and animal health. Next Steps: India’s spectrum allocation for public wireless services should be greatly increased. Furthermore, the cost of spectrum in terms of per capita GDP is high and should be
18 AUGUST 2022 – DAILY MAINS QUESTIONS & SYNOPSIS:
Q1. Religious freedom, celebratory neutrality, and reformatory justice are the three strands that make up Indian secularism. Explain. (250 words) Paper & Topic: GS I – Secularism Model Answer: Introduction: The term “secularism,” which refers to the proper relationship between the state, the person, and religion, is interpreted differently in different communities, resulting in a variety of paradigms. The western form of secularism, which commonly considers the separation of state and religion to be secularism, differs from the Indian approach. Rajeev Dhavan, a legal expert, divides Indian secularism into three parts: religious liberty, celebratory neutrality, and reformatory justice. Body: Background: The Preamble of the 42nd Amendment Act was amended to include the term “secularism,” making the Indian state’s commitment to secularism more apparent. The concept of secularism, on the other hand, may be found in the constitution’s many clauses. Fundamental Rights, for example. Universal Adult Franchise’s directive principles. The Supreme Court proclaimed secularism to be the “basic structure” of the constitution in the S. R. Bommai case in 1994. Indian model of Secularism: The Indian model is neither religious neutral (DHARM-NIRPEKSTA) nor does it treat all religions equally (SARVA-DHARMA-SAMBHAVA). The Indian paradigm, on the other hand, is based on the notion of ‘Principled Distance,’ which allows for flexibility in approach through differentiated treatment. The Indian state includes or excludes religion depending on the situation, resulting in simultaneous engagement/disengagement between state and religion. Religious Freedom: There are two ways in which the Indian Constitution protects religious freedom. It safeguards an individual’s right to profess, practise, and spread a religion, as well as any religious denomination’s ability to regulate its own affairs. This is covered under Articles 25 and 26 of the Constitution, respectively. Celebratory neutrality: Celebratory neutrality refers to a state that supports the celebration of all faiths, both financially and otherwise. The state contributes to the preservation and repair of well-known religious sites like as the Jama Masjid, the Somanath Temple, the Golden Temple, and prominent churches, among others. The administration actively assists Moslems in performing the Haj, Hindus in visiting Manosarovar and Amarnath, and makes elaborate arrangements for the Kumbha mela and other religious meetings and celebrations. Reformatory Justice entails regulating and reforming religious organisations and practises, as well as preserving some basic features that are not subject to legislation. For example, consider the Sabarimala Judgement and the issue of necessary religious activities. The supreme court, which is governed by sharia, banned Triple Talaq in 2017. In the Shah Bano case, the court compelled a Muslim divorced lady to pay alimony. Conclusion: Thus, the Indian constitution recognises the notion of religious liberty, which includes the right to profess, practise, and spread religion, as well as the right to establish religious institutions and minority educational institutions (Art 25-Art 30). As a result, the state has played a role in religious freedom and celebratory neutrality. When it comes to rights, however, the judiciary has stepped in to support Reformative Justice. Q2. Consider the value of technology in improving India’s dairy farming business. (250 words) Paper & Topic: GS III – Indian Agriculture Model Answer: Introduction: The White Revolution refers to a massive rise in milk supply achieved via joint efforts. India is still on the lookout for the next breakthrough in agricultural production and productivity, forty-eight years after Operation Flood, which made India the world’s greatest milk producer. White Revolution 2.0 has resurrected the outlook for product-market mix by implementing dairy enterprises’ marketing strategy for milk and milk products. India, on the other hand, has yet to enter the ranks of big milk exporting nations, as much of what we produce is consumed domestically. Body: India’s milk production: In 2019, India became the world’s largest milk producer and consumer. According to Niti Aayog, the country’s milk production will rise from 176 million metric tonnes (mt) to 330 million metric tonnes (mt) in 2033–34. India now produces 17 percent of the world’s dairy products, surpassing the United States as the world’s largest dairy producer in 1998. All of this was made possible by Operation Flood, which began in the 1970s. In 2017, the milk and dairy products business was valued at Rs7.9 lakh crore, according to market research firm IMARC. The milk market alone was worth Rs3 lakh crore in 2016 and is expected to grow to Rs7.3 lakh crore by 2021. In 2018-19, milk availability per capita was 394 grammes per day, compared to a global average of 302 grammes. The country’s yearly milk output increased at a compound annual growth rate of 6.4 percent between 2016 and 2019. India produces roughly 22 percent of the world’s milk, with an annual production of 187.75 million tonnes (as of 2018-19 data). Obstacles encountered: The output of Indian cattle and buffaloes is among the lowest in the world. According to recent research, indigenous cows produce 3.01kg of milk per cow per day, but exotic crossbred cows produce 7.95kg. This means that the average productivity output of indigenous cattle (including non-descript and high-yielding indigenous varieties) is only 1,099kg per animal per year, compared to 3,073kg per animal per year for cross-bred cattle. Similarly, there is a scarcity of well-organized dairy farms, and a significant amount of investment is required to bring the dairy business up to international standards. One of the key issues is increasing the productivity of farm animals. Crossbreeding indigenous species with foreign stocks to improve the genetic potential of diverse species has only been partially effective. The sector will likewise be subjected to severe market-wide adjustment pressures. Though globalisation will open up new opportunities for worldwide trade, strict food safety and quality standards will be essential. Access to markets is crucial for commercialization to move forward quickly. Farmers may be discouraged from adopting upgraded technology and high-quality inputs due to a lack of market access. How technology may help the diary industry: Biotechnology: In the dairy sector, biotechnology is a relatively new field. It is, nonetheless, being hailed as one of the most game-changing dairy technologies of the future.
17 AUGUST 2022 – DAILY MAINS QUESTIONS & SYNOPSIS:
Q1. The Sangam literature is a combination of ideals with realistic history and classical epics which all together serve as the sources of history of that age. Explain. (250 words) Paper & Topic: GS I – Indian Culture Model Answer: Introduction: The Sangam Age constitutes an important chapter in the history of South India. According to Tamil legends, there existed three Sangams (Academy of Tamil poets) in ancient Tamil Nadu popularly called Muchchangam. These Sangams flourished under the royal patronage of the Pandyas. Body: The first Sangam, held at Then Madurai, was attended by gods and legendary sages but no literary work of this Sangam was available. The second Sangam was held at Kapadapuram but the all the literary works had perished except Tolkappiyam. The third Sangam at Madurai was founded by Mudathirumaran. It was attended by a large number of poets who produced voluminous literature but only a few had survived. Sangam Literature: Ideals and Realistic history: The corpus of Sangam literature includes Tolkappiyam, Ettutogai, Pattuppattu, Pathinenkilkanakku, and the two epics- Silappathigaram and Manimegalai. It is a work on Tamil grammar but it provides information on the political and socio- economic conditions of the Sangam period. Both Ettutogai and Pattuppattu were divided into two main groups – Aham (love) and Puram (valour). Pathinenkilkanakku contains eighteen works mostly dealing with ethics and morals. The most important among them is Tirukkural authored by Thiruvalluvar. Silappathigaram written by Elango Adigal and Manimegalai by Sittalai Sattanar also provides valuable information on the Sangam polity and society. Sangam Literature as sources of history Political history: The Tamil country was ruled by three dynasties namely the Chera, Chola and Pandyas during the Sangam Age. The political history of these dynasties can be traced from the literary references. Position of women: There is a plenty of information in the Sangam literature to trace the position of women during the Sangam age. Women poets like Avvaiyar, Nachchellaiyar, and Kakkaipadiniyar flourished in this period and contributed to Tamil literature. The courage of women was also appreciated in many poems. Sangam Society: Tolkappiyam refers to the five-fold division of lands – Kurinji (hilly tracks), Mullai (pastoral), Marudam (agricultural), Neydal (coastal) and Palai (desert). Tolkappiyam also refers to four castes namely arasar, anthanar, vanigar and vellalar. The ruling class was called arasar. Anthanars played a significant role in the Sangam polity and religion. Vanigars carried on trade and commerce. The vellalars were agriculturists. Sangam Polity: Hereditary monarchy was the form of government during the Sangam period. Land revenue was the chief source of state’s income while custom duty was also imposed on foreign trade. Trade: Both internal and foreign trade was well organized and briskly carried on in the Sangam Age. The Sangam literature, Greek and Roman accounts and the archaeological evidences provide detailed information on this subject. Spinning and weaving of cotton and silk clothes attained a high quality. The poems mention the cotton clothes as thin as a cloud of steam or a slough of a snake. There was a great demand in the western world for the cotton clothes woven at Uraiyur. Agriculture: Agriculture was the chief occupation. Rice was the common crop. Ragi, sugarcane, cotton, pepper, ginger, turmeric, cinnamon and a variety of fruits were the other crops. However, there are dispute among the exact period of sangam age and its chronology. The most probable date of the Sangam literature has been fixed between the third century B.C. to third century A.D. on the basis of literary, archaeological and numismatic evidences. Conclusion: The Sangam age Tamil literary works remain useful sources to reconstruct the history of the period providing major insights into the social and economic life of people, especially in the Southern India. Q2. What status was the environment accorded during the Vedic period? How do Vedic symbols encapsulate the spirit of environment? Discuss. Paper & Topic: GS I – Indian Culture Model Answer: Introduction: The Vedic Age was between 1500 BC and 600 BC. This is the next major civilization that occurred in ancient India after the decline of the Indus Valley Civilization by 1400 BC. The Vedas were composed in this period and this gives this age the name. Further the Vedas have several references in them on environmental protection, ecological balance, weather cycles, rainfall phenomena, hydrologic cycle, and related subjects that directly indicate the high level of awareness of the seers and people of that time. Body: Status of Environment: Ancient treasures of vast knowledge reveal a full cognizance of the undesirable effects of environmental degradation, whether caused by natural factors or human activities. The protection of the environment was understood to be closely related to the protection of the ‘dyaus’ or heavens and ‘prithvi’ or earth. Between these two lies the atmosphere and the environment that we refer to as the ‘paryavaran’. Many of the Rig Vedic hymns therefore vividly describe the ‘Dyava’ Prithvi that is, they describe Heaven and Earth together. The Rig Veda venerates deities like Mitra, Varuna, Indra, Maruts and Aditya, that are responsible for maintaining the requisite balance in the functioning of all entities of Nature whether the mountains, lakes, heaven and earth, the forests or the waters. Seers recognised that changes caused due to indiscreet human activities could result in imbalances in seasons, rainfall patterns, crops and atmosphere and degrade the quality of water, air, and earth resources. There are many hymns seeking the blessings of the five basic gross elements or the ‘pancha mahabhoota’ of Nature: ‘akashor’ firmament, ‘vayu’ or air, ‘agni’, ‘tejas’ or fire, ‘apah’ or water, and ‘prithvi’ or earth. People were careful to refrain from activities that could cause harm to Nature’s bounties. It was understood that the well-being of Mother Earth depended on the preservation and sustenance of the environment. The Rig Veda makes a clear reference to the presence of a protective layer which we know now to be the ozone layer that filters the harmful rays of the sun and protects the earth and praises the radiation that enters the atmosphere that is responsible for the health of the environment. Therefore, the Vedic society
16 AUGUST 2022 – DAILY MAINS QUESTIONS & SYNOPSIS:
Q1. Analyse the challenges associated with the mechanism of Social Audits. (250 words) Paper & Topic: GS III – Environmental Conservation related issues. Model Answer: What Justifies a Social Audit? A corporation or government can use social audits as a way to update its stakeholders on its social performance and work to enhance future social performance. Charles Medawar first proposed the idea in 1972. A development audit is not the same as a social audit. A development audit has a wider focus that encompasses environmental and economic issues, such as the success of a project or programme, whereas a social audit is more focused on the sometimes disregarded topic of social implications. The key difference between a social audit and a development audit is this. The Basics Of Social Audit: Complete transparency in the management and decision-making processes, with a responsibility on the side of the government to proactively grant the public free access to all relevant information. Participation: The right-based right of all affected individuals to participate in the decision-making and validation processes, not just their representatives. Representative Participation: When options are decided out of necessity, the right of the affected parties to give informed consent as a group or as individuals, as appropriate, is known as representative participation. Accountability: Direct and immediate responsibility for the relevant actions or inactions of elected officials and other government personnel to all persons involved and impacted. The value of social audits: By attentively observing governmental procedures, SA exposes irregularities and misconduct in the public sector and ends leaks and corruption. It provides analysis of an organization’s activities as well as an assessment of its social and ethical impact. By ensuring that local government representatives conduct themselves responsibly and openly, SA bridges the trust chasm that exists between citizens and their local governments. They are urged by SA to participate in programme execution development initiatives and open up more to social contact. The Gram Sabha, the focal point of rural administration, has a voice and influence because of SA. SA creates the foundation for management policy establishment by putting forth requests in a way that is accountable and socially responsible. SA improves the professionalism of the public sector by requiring Panchayats to keep adequate records and accounts of expenditures made with money from the government and other sources. Problems/Challenges With Social Audits: Gram Panchayats are not obligated to give Social Audit Units (SAUs) documents pertaining to job completion and expenditures (CAG report) in a number of states, nor are Gram Sabhas given social audit reports in their own languages. Because the government has not regulated the institutionalisation of SA, auditors are subject to implementing agencies that encounter resistance and intimidation and struggle to even acquire access to original data for verification. Before using funding, some SAUs must receive approval from the organisation in charge of the project. Numerous governments do not follow the requirements’ transparent selection process for the SAU’s director. Even once a year, some SAUs lack the manpower to cover all of the panchayats. SA is a useless endeavour because there are no penalties or legal implications for violating its rules and regulations. Members of the Gram Sabha are ignorant of their legal right to social audits because of this. It is difficult for auditors to take stock, accelerate, decelerate, or execute remedial measures since government agencies rely on a vague and imprecise system of referencing government accounts and government reporting procedures. People’s concerns about their livelihoods are the cause of their lack of participation in village activities. Actions That Need to Be Taken: Citizens’ groups must fight for the advancement of social audits and hold the political leadership and implementing organisations accountable. Each district should gather a team of social audit experts to train the committee members (stakeholders). The development of training programmes for social auditing procedures such as conducting and documenting audits, as well as speaking at Gram Sabha, is crucial. The system of social audits needs extensive support and encouragement from several authorities in order to become an institutionalised structure that cannot be disputed by vested interests. Q2. Analyse the features of the Special Economic Zones. (250 words) Paper & Topic: GS III – Environmental Conservation related issues. Model Answer: What are special economic zones? A SEZ is a territory of a country with its own set of economic and commercial regulations, is frequently duty-free (Fiscal Concession), and has the goal of attracting investment and creating jobs. SEZs are also developed to improve regional governance and promote commerce. The aims of the SEZ Act are as follows: in order to boost economic activity. to increase the amount of goods and services exported. to expand my alternatives for employment. to increase both domestic and international investment. Construction of infrastructure facilities. Along with other incentives and amenities, SEZ units may be built, run, and maintained using domestic or duty-free imported items. exemption from taxes including, but not limited to, the income tax and the minimum alternate tax. The external commercial borrowing by SEZ units through reputable banking channels of up to USD $500 million per year has no maturity restrictions. For national and state level approvals, there is a one-window clearance process. SEZs in India: In 1965, Kandla, Gujarat, was designated as Asia’s first EPZ. Zone for export processing. The government started developing SEZs in 2000 as part of the Foreign Trade Policy to solve the infrastructure and administrative constraints that were viewed as being limiting EPZ performance, despite the fact that the foundation of these EPZs was identical to that of SEZs. In 2005, the Special Economic Zones Act was passed. Both the Act and the SEZ Regulations went into effect in 2006. SEZs, on the other hand, existed in India from 2000 to 2006. India’s SEZs were modelled after China’s very successful system in many ways. Of the 379 SEZs that have been notified, 265 are currently operational. About 64% of the SEZs are located in five states: Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra. The