[Mission 2024] Insights SECURE SYNOPSIS: 1 August 2023

NOTE: Please remember that following ‘answers’ are NOT ‘model answers’. They are NOT synopsis too if we go by definition of the term. What we are providing is content that both meets demand of the question and at the same

Topic: Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc.

1. The Volcanic landforms can vary widely in shape, size, and composition depending on the type of volcanic eruption and the characteristics of the lava and other volcanic materials involved. Explain. (150 words)

Difficulty level: Easy

Reference: Insights on India

Why the question:

The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 1 and mentioned as part of Mission-2024 Secure timetable.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about volcanic landforms and their types.

Directive:

Explain – Give a detailed account as to how and why it occurred, or what is the particular context. You must be defining key terms where ever appropriate, and substantiate with relevant associated facts.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Begin by giving context about volcano and volcanism.

Body:

First, write in detail about the different types of volcanic landforms – Volcanic landforms are divided into extrusive and intrusive landforms etc.

Next, write about the various subtypes of the above landforms. Use a small representative diagram to represent the same.

Conclusion:

Conclude by Summarising.

Introduction

A volcano is a rupture in the crust of a planetary-mass object, such as Earth, that allows hot lava, volcanic ash, and gases to escape from a magma chamber below the surface. The process is called Volcanism and has been ongoing on Earth since the initial stages of its evolution over 4 billion years ago.

Volcanic landforms are divided into extrusive and intrusive landforms based on weather magma cools within the crust or above the crust. Rocks formed by either plutonic (cooling of magma within the crust) or volcanic (cooling of lava above the surface) are called ‘Igneous rocks’.

Body

Extrusive Volcanic Landforms: These are formed from material thrown out during volcanic activity. The materials thrown out during volcanic activity includes lava flows, pyroclastic debris, volcanic bombs, ash and dust and gases such as nitrogen compounds, sulphur compounds and minor amounts of chlorine, hydrogen and argon.

Intrusive Volcanic Landforms: Intrusive landforms are formed when magma cools within the crust. The intrusive activity of volcanoes gives rise to various forms.

Conclusion

Volcanoes have a huge impact on man and material as urbanization and globalization increases. The effects have impacts on flora, fauna and the global warming which can accelerate the climate change.

Topic: Salient features of world’s physical geography.

2. The theory of plate tectonics is considered more complete than the continental drift theory because it incorporates and explains a broader range of geological phenomena and observations related to the movement of Earth’s lithospheric plates. Examine. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Insights on India

Why the question:

The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 1 and mentioned as part of Mission-2024 Secure timetable.

Key Demand of the question:

Directive word:

Examine – When asked to ‘Examine’, we must investigate the topic (content words) in detail, inspect it, investigate it and establish the key facts and issues related to the topic in question. While doing so we should explain why these facts and issues are important and their implications.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Begin by write about plate tectonics and the movement of continents and various theories put forward to explain them.

Body:

Write in brief about the continental drift theory and explains it briefly – forces it considers for the movement, supporting evidences it considers, critique of theory regarding the movement of the continents and its acceptance among scientists etc.

In the next part, write about plate tectonic theory, the mechanism of it and how it successfully explained the movement of continents. Use small and neat diagrams for better representation.

Conclusion:

Mention about general importance of the two theories and conclude your answer.

Introduction

Continental drift describes one of the earliest ways geologists thought continents moved over time. It was a theory that explained how continents shift position on Earth’s surface due to various forces existing on the earth. The theory of plate tectonics states that the Earth’s solid outer crust, the lithosphere, is separated into plates that move over the asthenosphere, the molten upper portion of the mantle. Oceanic and continental plates come together, spread apart, and interact at boundaries all over the planet. Today, the theory of continental drift has been replaced by the science of plate tectonics.

Body:

Continental drift

Plate tectonics:

How plate tectonics is an improvement over continental drift theory:

Conclusion:

It took nearly 60 years for the idea of continental drift to be scientifically confirmed in the form of plate tectonic theory. Ultimately it added new dimension in the understanding of the global distribution of earthquakes, volcanoes and identification of disaster-prone areas.

Topic: urbanization, their problems and their remedies.

3. Cities must take lead on climate change, rather than simply reacting to untoward events. Instead of pursuing smart cities, we should invest in rainwater harvesting and better drainage. Comment. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Indian Express

Why the question:

In the past few weeks, three major cities — Delhi, Ahmedabad, Mumbai — have been flooded. Cities like Hyderabad (in 2000), Srinagar (in 2014), Chennai (in 2021) and Bengaluru (in 2022) have also seen some areas being submerged during heavy rainfall.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about perils of unplanned urbanization and the consequences of flooding in cities and ways to overcome them.

Directive word:

Comment– here we must express our knowledge and understanding of the issue and form an overall opinion thereupon.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Begin by giving context.

Body:

First, write about the Consequences of Unplanned Urbanization – adverse effects of haphazard urban growth, such as increased pollution, traffic congestion, Flooding in Cities, Environmental Concerns and strain on resources.

Next, write about the potential solutions to address the challenges posed by unplanned urbanization and flooding.

Conclusion:

Conclude with a way forward.

Introduction

As the incidence of climate variability and extreme weather events increases, urban flooding becomes more and more common. While the untimely heavy rains can be attributed to climate variability, the urban flooding is largely due to an unplanned urbanisation.

In many Indian cities, the urban floods have become a frequent phenomenon in recent years. Overburdened drainage, unregulated construction, no regard to the natural topography and hydro-geomorphology all make urban floods a man-made disaster.

In the past few weeks, three major cities — Delhi, Ahmedabad, Mumbai — have been flooded. Cities like Hyderabad (in 2000), Srinagar (in 2014), Chennai (in 2021) and Bengaluru (in 2022) have also seen some areas being submerged during heavy rainfall.

Body:

Urban floods is a man-made disaster

However, there are natural causes too which lead to urban floods

Measures needed

Protecting the greens, curbing new unauthorised concretisation, separating the stormwater drains from the sewer network, and ensuring waste segregation and treatment are keys to addressing this problem.

Way forward

Conclusion

These can all be delivered effectively through an urban mission along the lines of the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), National Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana (HRIDAY) and Smart Cities Mission. Urban Flood management will not just help control recurring floods but also respond to other fault lines, provide for water security, more green spaces, and will make the city resilient and sustainable.

Topic: Parliament and State legislatures—structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these

4. Disruptions often lead to the adjournment of Parliament sessions, preventing the passage of important bills, laws, and policies. This hinders the legislative process and delays crucial decisions that affect the country’s governance and development. Evaluate. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Easy

Reference: The Hindu , Insights on India

Why the question:

Parliament remained paralysed for the eighth consecutive sitting on July 31, with Rajya Sabha witnessing an aggressive push from the government to hold a short-duration discussion on Manipur, and the Opposition demanding a more expansive debate suspending all business. In Lok Sabha, where the Opposition is awaiting a debate on a no-confidence motion that has been admitted, disruptions continued as well.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the impact of parliamentary disruptions and measures needed to overcome the same.

Directive word:

Evaluate – When you are asked to evaluate, you have to pass a sound judgement about the truth of the given statement in the question or the topic based on evidence. You must appraise the worth of the statement in question. There is scope for forming an opinion here.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Begin by giving context.

Body:

First, write about the importance of parliamentary debates and discussion to our democracy.

Next, write about the impact of disruptions – delays in legislative work, waste valuable time and resources, erode public trust, deepen political polarization, and decrease the quality of debates.

Next, write about the measures that are needed to remedy this situation.

Conclusion:

Conclude with a way forward.

Introduction

Supreme court made observations regarding disruptions in the Parliament. A nation aspiring to be a “world leader” should debate on the welfare of its citizens rather than make Parliament a stage to exchange jeers and launch personal attacks on one another.

With the completion of 75 years of Independence and ambitions of becoming a world leader, elected members should at least know that they are expected to show statesmanship and not brinkmanship in the House. Legislature is the first place where justice is dispensed to the common man through a democratic process.

Body

Background

Reasons for frequent disruptions

Impact of frequent disruptions

Measures needed

Conclusion

Democracy is judged by the debate it encourages and sustains. More strengthening of the Parliament is the solution to prevent disruption of its proceedings. There should be a deepening of its role as the forum for deliberation on critical national issues.

Topic: Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes;

5. Discuss the significance of preserving tribal culture and the challenges faced in doing so. Suggest measures to promote the rich cultural heritage of tribal communities. (150 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: The Hindu

Why the question:

The article emphasizes the importance of safeguarding tribal culture and traditions, prompting a deeper examination of the subject matter.

Key Demand of the question:

To analyse the significance of preserving tribal culture and identify the obstacles encountered in this endeavour

Directive word:

Discuss – This is an all-encompassing directive – you must debate on paper by going through the details of the issues concerned by examining each one of them. You must give reasons for both for and against arguments.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Introduce the concept of tribal culture and its value in the context of cultural diversity.

Body:

First, write about Significance of Preserving Tribal Culture -unique cultural heritage and traditions of tribal communities, role of tribal culture in enriching the nation’s cultural tapestry and promoting social cohesion etc.

Next, write about Challenges in Preserving Tribal Culture – impact of modernization and globalization on tribal communities and their cultural practices, threat posed by urbanization, displacement, and assimilation to tribal identity etc.

Next, write about measures needed in the above regard.

Conclusion:

Conclude with a way forward.

Introduction

India is home to a significant number of tribal communities, also known as Scheduled Tribes (STs). According to the 2011 Census of India, there are over 700 scheduled tribes in the country, representing about 8.6% of the total population. These tribes have unique cultures, languages, traditions, and ways of life.

Body

Significance of preserving tribal culture

Challenges in preserving tribal culture

Measures needed

Conclusion

In conclusion, preserving tribal culture in India is vital for maintaining cultural diversity, sustainable development, and social cohesion. Addressing the challenges faced by tribal communities and implementing measures to promote their rich cultural heritage can ensure that India’s tribal legacy continues to thrive for generations to come.

Value addition

Tribes of India

Topic: Inclusive growth and issues arising from it.

6. LPG subsidies have the potential to bring about positive social, economic, and environmental changes in many communities. Critically analyse (250 words)

Difficulty level: Tough

Reference: The Hindu

Why the question:

The article raises concerns about India’s clean cooking strategy and calls for a re-evaluation of the approach to address cooking-related challenges.

Key Demand of the question: To write about LPG subsidy and how it is a critical social investment and reduces public health burden.

Directive:

Critically analyze – When asked to analyse, you must examine methodically the structure or nature of the topic by separating it into component parts and present them in a summary. When ‘critically’ is suffixed or prefixed to a directive, one needs to look at the good and bad of the topic and give a balanced judgment on the topic.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

In the introduction, present the scenario in the Indian society about usage of LPG and traditional cooking fuel. Use some data/statistics.

Body:

First, explain first in what way LPG connections can be revolutionary in freeing women for productive time and reduce the public health concerns.

Next, talk about the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, PMUY. It helped expand LPG coverage to > 85% of households, in comparison to less than a third in 2011.The government is again offering one crore new connections under Ujjwala 2.0 in FY22.

Present the associated issues and suggest solutions to address the same.

Conclusion:

Conclude with a way forward.

Introduction

Since 2014, the Government of India committed to promoting clean cooking, mostly through offering two large subsidies linked to liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). The lives of many women have changed, with their cooking becoming healthier and faster. The ambitious Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) has provided more than 9.5 crore new households with LPG connections since 2016. For the first time, LPG consumption in Indian households saw an absolute reduction in FY23 (minus 0.5% versus FY22) after years of steady growth.

Yet, as per recent NSSO report, only 48 per cent of rural households had used LPG for cooking.

Body

LPG subsidy in India

India’s two large LPG subsidies are for connection and consumption.

LPG Subsidy: Benefits to women

Challenges in the LPG subsidy dispersion

Conclusion

India’s commitment to promote LPG has been admirable and many countries could learn from efforts to better target the expansion of LPG towards poor women in rural areas via PMUY. The latter has worked well in allowing many low-income households to access LPG for the first time and has provided 80.3 million LPG connections to poor households since its launch in 2016.

There is still a journey ahead in terms of making clean cooking subsidies better targeted towards those families who really need it. But, with half of women in rural areas still using traditional fuels, it is also clear that we need government policies and support measures beyond just LPG subsidies.

Topic: laws, rules, regulations and conscience as sources of ethical guidance;

7. A moral compass helps individuals identify and define their core values and principles. By reflecting on what they stand for and believe in, people can gain clarity on their ethical priorities and establish a strong foundation for making moral decisions. Elaborate. (150 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude by Lexicon Publications.

Why the question:

The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 4.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about how moral compass leads to describe conscience, our inner sense of right and wrong offers a framework to guide our actions.

Directive:

Elaborate – Give a detailed account as to how and why it occurred, or what is the particular context. You must be defining key terms where ever appropriate, and substantiate with relevant associated facts.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Start by describing what you understand by moral compass (conscience) which governs the actions you take in day-to-day life.

Body:

Elaborate on how a moral compass helps people make ethical decisions by helping to determine which actions would help or harm others, society, or the environment. It also helps people see how their actions can have consequences for other people and cultures.

Cite examples to substantiate.

Conclusion:

Complete the answer by bring out how the moral compass prevents us acting purely from self-interest and helps us live a life of integrity.

Introduction

Moral compass is a term used to describe our inner sense of right and wrong offers a framework to guide our actions. Conscience is inner moral sense of a person which guides him/her to regulate his behaviour. Voice of conscience corresponds to an inner voice that judges your behaviour. Voice of conscience is the source of ethical decision making for many.

Body

Conscience can be defined as something within each of us that tells us what is right and what is wrong. Therefore, if one uses his/her conscience when making decisions it would be guided by what is the right thing to do and what is wrong.

The traditional test is to apply ethical decision-making methods such as Rights Theory that obligates us to respect the rights of others and live up to our obligations towards them. Another approach is to evaluate the possible benefits and harms of alternative courses of action on stakeholders who may be affected by our possible actions and choose the one that maximizes net benefits.

Conclusion

Acting purely from self-interest, at best, keeps us parallel to the original position and can turn our compass south if our actions do harm to others. We avoid going in that direction by living a life of integrity. We also need to understand and appreciate why we should consider the needs of others before acting. We could simply go back to The Golden Rule: Treat others the way you want to be treated. None of us, presumably, wants to be disrespected so we should treat others respectfully.

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