[ad_1]
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 time gives you extra points in the form of background information.
General Studies – 2
Topic: Effects of globalization on Indian society.
Difficulty level: Moderate
Reference: The Hindu
Why the question:
‘Global Village’ is not just an academic term but a lived reality for the nearly eight billion people on the planet. This ‘Global Village’ was built on the foundation of advanced transportation networks, cemented with the U.S. dollar as the reserve currency and fenced by integrated payment systems.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about global village concept and its impact on the Indian society.
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:
Begin by defining global village.
Body:
First, write about the various attributes and features of global village.
Next, write about the positive impact of global village on the Indian society and culture. Substantiate with facts and examples.
Next, write about the negative impact of global village on the Indian society and culture. Substantiate with facts and examples.
Conclusion:
Conclude by mentioning as to how to increase the positive impact and reduce negative impact.
Introduction
Globalisation is the widening, intensifying speeding up & growing impact of world-wide interconnectedness. The inter-connectedness that globalisation has spawned is multidimensional & operates through distinctive economic, cultural & political processes.
Globalisation has made the distance between nations as borderless villages. Hence the whole world has been one big global village. Global village is such an environment where the world considered as a single community in which telecommunications link the inhabitants together. In other words, Global village is an idea where all the people of the world will live as a single society and provide communication and services to each other through the use of information and communication technology.
Body
Various attributes of Global Village
- Technology: Has reduced the speed of communication manifolds. The phenomenon of social media in the recent world has made distance insignificant.
- LPG Reforms: The 1991 reforms in India have led to greater economic liberalisation which has in turn increased India’s interaction with the rest of the world.
- Faster Transportation: Improved transport, making global travel easier. For example, there has been a rapid growth in air-travel, enabling greater movement of people and goods across the globe.
- Rise of WTO and multilateral organisations: The formation of WTO in 1994 led to reduction in tariffs and non-tariff barriers across the world. It also led to the increase in the free trade agreements among various countries.
- Improved mobility of capital: there has been a general reduction in capital barriers, making it easier for capital to flow between different economies. This has increased the ability for firms to receive finance. It has also increased the global interconnectedness of global financial markets.
- Rise of MNCs: Multinational corporations operating in different geographies have led to a diffusion of best practices. MNCs source resources from around the globe and sell their products in global markets leading to greater local interaction.
- Above factors have helped in economic liberalization and globalization and have facilitated the world in becoming a “global village”.
Positive impact of Global Village on Indian society
Globalization helps to boost the long-run average growth rate of the economy of the country through the following:
- Improvement in the allocative efficiency of resources;
- FDI and technology transfer: Globalization attracts an entry of foreign capital along with foreign updated technology which improves the quality of production.
- Globalization enhances the efficiency of the banking insurance and financial sectors with the opening up to those areas to foreign capital, foreign banks, and insurance companies.
- Improved Standard of Living and Better Purchasing Power
- Access to education: On one hand globalisation has aided in the explosion of information on the web that has helped in greater awareness among people. It has also led to greater need for specialisation and promotion of higher education in the country.
- Pervasive Media: There is greater access to news, music, movies, videos from around the world. Foreign media houses have increased their presence in India. India is part of the global launch of Hollywood movies which is very well received here. It has a psychological, social and cultural influence on our society.
- Growth of cities: It has been estimated that by 2050 more than 50% of India’s population will live in cities. The boom of services sector and city centric job creation has led to increasing rural to urban migration.
- Indian cuisine: is one of the most popular cuisines across the globe. Historically, Indian spices and herbs were one of the most sought-after trade commodities. Pizzas, burgers, Chinese foods and other Western foods have become quite popular.
Negative aspects of Global Village
- The agriculture sector is the backbone of the Indian economy. The above 50 percent of people are working in the agriculture sector. This sector has been neglected by the government in the post-reform period and the share of agriculture has decelerated continuously.
- Post reform period has witnessed a drastic increase in child labor because due to LPG policy the role of public sector was reduced. Therefore, the corporate is working for profit motive only.
- Process of Capital intensive from labour-intensive adopted global technologies and automatic machinery. But this has resulted in the high rate of unemployment in India which is becoming the biggest challenge for Indian Economy and the Government today.
- We may call globalization as a double-edged weapon that helped Indian consumers to enjoy all high-Quality global brands. On another hand, it helped the Government of India to tide over its serious foreign exchange problem, even though temporarily by getting a loan from World Bank. But it has been at the cost of decontrol of the Indian Government over its economy and at the cost of the local Industry.
Conclusion
Globalisation is an age-old phenomenon which has been taking place for centuries now. We can experience it so profoundly these days because of its increased pace. The penetration of technology and new economic structures are leading to an increased interaction between people. As with other things there have been both positive and negative impacts on India due to it.
Topic: communalism, regionalism & secularism.
Difficulty level: Moderate
Reference: The Hindu , Indian Express
Why the question:
Hubballi city in north Karnataka saw a communal flare-up on the night of April 16, the immediate trigger for which was an inflammatory social media post.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about the causes of communalism and ways to counter it.
Directive word:
Elaborate – Give a detailed account as to how and why it occurred, or what is the context. You must be defining key terms wherever appropriate and substantiate with relevant associated facts.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by defining communalism.
Body:
First, write about the various causes behind the communalisation of the society – Divisive Politics, Economic Causes, History of Communal Riots, Politics of Appeasement etc.
Next, write in detail about various measures to counter communal tension in the society.
Finally, write about what can be done in future by government, civil society etc so as to reduce communalism.
Conclusion:
Conclude by writing a way forward.
Introduction
Communalism is characterised by a strong allegiance to one’s own ethnic group rather than to society as a whole. the basis of allegiance may be varied such as language, ethnicity, region, religion etc. In India, communalism as a social phenomenon is characterized by the religion of two communities, often leading to acrimony, tension and even rioting between them. Communalism essentially leads to violence as it is based on mutual religious hatred.
Body
Background
- Hubballi city in north Karnataka saw a communal flare-up recently, the immediate trigger for which was an inflammatory social media post.
- Communal clashes broke out in northwest Delhi’s Jahangirpuri recently during a Hanuman Jayanti procession.
- Nine people, including eight police personnel, were injured in clashes in Jahangirpuri
Factors responsible for growth of Communalism in India:
- A Legacy of Past:
- On the basis of the “Two Nation” theory of Jinnah, India was partitioned. Communal politics had played its nasty game during the immediate past of independent India. The “Divide and Rule” policy of the British Government served their colonial interest. The partition of India was the ultimate outcome of their politics.
- Presence of Communal Parties:
- Religion in India has become an important agency of political socialization and it is also reflected in the ideology of a number of political parties. A number of communal and sectarian political parties and organisations are present in India. Muslim League, Jamaat—Islami, Hindu Mahasabha, Akali Dal, Vishwa Hindu Parishad are directly or indirectly responsible for the emergence of communalism.
- Isolation of Muslims:
- Indian Muslims have developed a tendency of isolationism even long after the creation of Pakistan. They remain aloof from the mainstream of national politics. Most of them are not interested to take part in the secular-nationalistic politics of the country. They insist on to be treated as a separate entity.
- Poverty:
- Mass poverty and unemployment create a sense of frustration among the people. It generates backwardness, illiteracy, ignorance, etc. The unemployed youth of both the communities can be easily trapped by religious fundamentalists and fanatics. They are used by them to cause communal riots. The weak economic status often breeds communalism.
- Hindu Chauvinism:
- The growths of Hindu chauvinistic attitudes have further strengthened the communal tensions in India. The Hindu religious groups like Shiv Sena, Hindu Mahasabha, Viswa Hindu Parisad often pressurize the government to take steps suitable to the interest of Hindus. They consider each Muslim as pro-Pakistani and anti-national. To face the possible challenge of other communal forces, they encourage the growth of Hindu communalism.
- Social Cause:
- The two major communities of India have been suspicious towards each other. The Muslims complain of the threat of Hindu cultural invasion upon their lives and have become more assertive of their rights. Either due to ignorance or insecurity, they do not fully accept the need of family planning and help in increasing population.
- Communalization of Politics:
- Electoral politics in India has become more expensive and competitive. Different political parties are not hesitating to use any means, fair or foul, for electoral victory. They even create communal tensions and try to take political advantage out of it. Concessions are granted to various minority groups for appeasing them.
- Cross-Border factors:
- Communal tensions in India sometimes are highly intensified due to the rule of two neighbouring theocratic countries. These countries try to create communal problems in the border states. The communal problems of Punjab and Jammu Kashmir are caused due to provocation of Pakistan. So long as this cross-border factor is not removed, communal problems are likely to stay in India.
- Failure of Government:
- Both the Union and the State Governments often fail to prevent communalism in the country. Due to lack of prior information, they fail to take any preventive measures. So the communal violence can easily take innocent lives and destroys property. The post-Godhra riot in Gujarat shows the inefficiency of the government to control the communal riot. Failure of immediate and effective steps has been a cause of the continuance of communalism.
Steps to check the growth of Communalism:
- Economic:
- Poverty is one of the major factors for communal violence. Poverty alleviation measures are thus important for promoting communal harmony.
- Eradicating the problem of unemployment among the youths, illiteracy and poverty and that too with honesty and without any discrimination.
- Reducing educational and economic backwardness of minorities like Muslims.
- This can uplift their socio economic status and reduce their deprivation compared to Hindus
- Social:
- The religious leaders and preachers should promote rational and practical things through religion promoting peace and security.
- Children in schools must be taught through textbooks and pamphlets to maintain brotherhood and respect for all religions
- Creating awareness in the society about the ill effects of communism through mass media
- Political:
- Political communism should be avoided recent Supreme court’s directives
- Identification and mapping of riot prone areas. For Example, Delhi police used drones to monitor to maintain vigil during communal festivals
- Media, movies and other cultural platforms can be influential in promoting peace and harmony.
- Social Media should be monitored for violent and repulsive content and taken off immediately.
- Recommendations of Committee on National Integration
- Joint celebration of community festivals
- Observing restraint by Hindus while taking processions before the mosques
- Formation of peace and brotherhood communities at local level to prevent anti-social elements from engaging in communal riots
- Respect for religious customs, rituals and practices
Conclusion
Communalism cannot be accepted as the necessary evil in the society. It is detrimental to the development, social change, democracy and the federal feature of the State. Jawaharlal Nehru had pointed out the issue and termed it as the greatest danger. And so he said that anyone who loves India would hate communalism and anyone who hates India would love communalism.
Topic: Indian Constitution—historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure.
Difficulty level: Moderate.
Reference: New Indian Express
Why the question:
With the BJP coming to power in several states, many leaders of this party at the state level have begun campaigning for a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in the country.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about analyse the debate regarding introduction of the Uniform civil code.
Directive word:
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:
Begin by defining Uniform Civil Code (UCC) as per article 44.
Body:
First, explaining the aims and objectives behind UCC in India.
Next, discuss in detail the arguments for UCC in India – Mentioned in DPSP, uniformity of laws, achieving equality, simplification of law, progressive measure etc.
Next, discuss in detail the arguments against the UCC in India – Lack of consensus, against cultural diversity, right of minorities, tribal customs etc.
Conclusion:
Conclude by giving a balanced opinion regarding UCC.
Introduction
A Uniform Civil Code is one that would provide for one law for the entire country, applicable to all religious communities in their personal matters such as marriage, divorce, inheritance, adoption etc. It proposes to replace the personal laws based on the scriptures and customs of each major religious community in the country with a common set of laws governing every citizen.
Article 44 of the Constitution lays down that the state shall endeavor to secure a Uniform Civil Code for the citizens throughout the territory of India.
Body
Background
- While delivering a judgment legitimising the Portuguese Civil Code of 1867, the Supreme Court reportedly described Goa as a “shining example” with a Uniform Civil Code
- The previous Chief Justice of India (CJI) S A Bobde recently lauded Goa’s Uniform Civil Code, and encouraged “intellectuals” indulging in “academic talk” to visit the state to learn more about it.
- The Delhi High Court, in a very revolutionary decision, backed the need for a Uniform Civil Code observing that there is a need for a Code – ‘common to all’ in the country and asked the central government to take the necessary steps in this matter.
Article 44 benefits:
- Promotion of secularism: One set of laws to govern the personal matters of all citizens irrespective of religion is the cornerstone of true secularism. A secular republic needs a common law for all citizens rather than differentiated rules based on religious practices. It would help end gender discrimination on religious grounds and strengthens the secular fabric of the nation.
- Protection of Vulnerable & Women’s Rights: It will protect the vulnerable sections of society. Women have been denied via personal laws in the name of socio cultural-religious traditions. Therefore UCC could bring all communities together to ensure Women the Right to a dignified life and control over their life as well as body.
- Gender justice:The rights of women are usually limited under religious law, be it Hindu or Muslim. Many practices governed by religious tradition are at odds with the fundamental rights guaranteed in the Indian Constitution. Courts have also often said in their judgements that the government should move towards a uniform civil code including the judgement in the Shah Bano case.
- Prevents religion-based discrimination: Personal laws differentiate between people on grounds of religion. A unified law having the same provisions regarding marital affairs would provide justice to those who feel discriminated against.
- Ending unjust customs and traditions: A rational common and unified personal law will help eradicate many evil, unjust and irrational customs and traditions prevalent across the communities. For example, Law against Manual scavenging. It might have been a custom in the past but in a mature democracy like India, this custom cannot be justified.
- Indian laws do follow a uniform code in most civil matters –Indian Contract Act, Civil Procedure Code, Sale of Goods Act, Transfer of Property Act, Partnership Act, Evidence Act etc. States, however, have made hundreds of amendments and therefore in certain matters, there is diversity even under these secular civil laws.
- Justice Prathiba M Singh of Delhi HC stated that the modern Indian society was gradually becoming homogenous, the traditional barriers of religion, community and caste are slowly dissipating and thus UCC ought not to remain a mere hope.
- Eases Administration: UCC would make it easy to administer the huge population base of India.
Challenges facing the passage of UCC:
- Violation of fundamental rights:Religious bodies oppose uniform civil code on the ground that it would be interference into religious affairs which would violate fundamental rights guaranteed under article 25 of the constitution.
- Reduces diversity:It would reduce the diversity of the nation by painting everyone in one colour. Tribals have their unique customs and traditions as per their culture. Replacing their customs and traditions with a unified law may lead to the identity crisis of the tribals. This may further lead to social tension.
- Communal politics:It would be a tyranny to the minority and when implemented could bring a lot of unrest in the country.
- Threat to Multiculturalism: Indian society has a unique identity in the form of its being multiculturalism, and unified law might do away with these unique characteristics of this nation.
- Affects Majority as well: For example, even Hindus themselves have separate Hindu laws for themselves. Thus, it is not merely a question for minorities but it also affects the majority.
- Lacking Political Will: Bigger issues have been resolved by the BJP Government like Ayodhya Dispute, repeal of Article 370, so with adequate will from the political community, UCC could also be implemented
- Sensitive and tough task – Such a code, in its true spirit, must be brought about by borrowing freely from different personal laws, making gradual changes in each, issuing judicial pronouncements assuring gender equality, and adopting expansive interpretations on marriage, maintenance, adoption, and succession by acknowledging the benefits that one community secures from the others. This task will be very demanding time and human resource wise. The government should be sensitive and unbiased at each step while dealing with the majority and minority communities. Otherwise, it might turn out to be more disastrous in a form of communal violence.
- Time is not yet suitable for this reform – Considering a major opposition from Muslim community in India over this issue overlapping with controversies over beef, saffronization of school and college curriculum, love jihad, and the silence emanating from the top leadership on these controversies, there needs to be given sufficient time for instilling confidence in the community. Otherwise, these efforts towards common will be counterproductive leaving minority class particularly Muslims more insecure and vulnerable to get attracted towards fundamentalist and extremist ideologies.
Way forward
- Major sensitization efforts are needed to reform current personal law reforms which should first be initiated by the communities themselves.
- Current institutions need to be modernized, democratized and strengthened for this change. Sincere efforts towards women empowerment have to be taken for all women of all religions.
- UCC can only emerge through an evolutionary process, which preserves India’s rich legal heritage, of which all the personal laws are equal constituents.
- The social transformation from diverse civil code to uniformity shall be gradual and cannot happen in a day. Therefore, the government must adopt a piecemeal approach and no knee-jerk decisions.
- There is need for deliberations and discussions among members of various communities to reach a common ground.
Conclusion
The guiding principles of the Constitution itself visualize diversity and have tried to promote uniformity among peoples of different denominations. A uniform law, although highly desirable but may be counterproductive to the unity and integrity of the nation. Hence, only those elements of customs and traditions should be brought into a unified law that causes injustice to individuals. In a democracy and rule of law, a gradual progressive change and order must be brought about.
General Studies – 2
Topic: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.
Difficulty level: Moderate
Reference: Insights on India
Why the question:
The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 2 and mentioned as part of Mission-2022 Secure timetable.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about India’s priority with respect to Africa in its foreign policy and the need for revamping India-Africa policy to deepen its ties for mutual benefits.
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:
Start with brief background of India’s foreign policy in Africa.
Body:
Briefly discuss the ties between India-Africa from past to present.
Explain that the Covid-19 pandemic has been one of the worst humanitarian and economic crisis faced by the world, but its effects stand to be much more devastating, particularly for Africa, where economic and public health conditions are extremely vulnerable
In the 21st century, Africa has transformed from a lost continent to a continent of hope. Subsequently, in recent years, Africa occupies a central place in the Indian government’s foreign and economic policy.
In the context of the current crisis, India has demonstrated its willingness and capacity to shoulder more responsibility in cooperating with Africa to recover from the current crisis and lend support in its overall growth.
Conclusion:
Conclude with a way forward.
Introduction
Africa is considered a foreign policy priority by India. The Indian government has designed a forward-looking strategy to deepen India-Africa relations further. Even during the COVID-19 times, India took new initiatives to assist Africa through prompt dispatch of medicines and later vaccines.
Body
Background: India Africa bilateral relations and its status
- Economic: Trade between India and Africa has increased more than eight-fold from US$7.2 billion in 2001 to US$63 billion in 2017-18.
- It further has the potential to grow threefold to $150 billion in next five years.
- India is the fifth largest country investing in the continent, with investments over the past 26 years amounting to $54 billion.
- People to people contact: There has been a welcome surge in people-to-people contacts as large numbers of African entrepreneurs, medical tourists, trainees and students have started coming to India and Indian experts and entrepreneurs have headed there.
- Business-to-business: Indian businesses are active across geographic spaces and sectors in Africa like agri-business, engineering, construction, film distribution, cement, plastics, and ceramics manufacturing, etc.
- Convergence of interest: Two partners are aligned on the outstanding issues at the World Trade Organization (WTO) and are in favor of multilateral trading systems.
- At the Bali Ministerial in 2013 too, Africa and India had united in seeking an interim mechanism for safeguarding minimum support prices to farmers against WTO caps till a permanent solution is found and adopted.
- Cooperation to tackle terrorism: India strongly advocated stepped-up cooperation through intelligence exchange and training with 54 African countries.
- There’s a convergence of interest for reforming the Security Council.
- It is imperative for both sides to speak in “one voice” for Security Council reforms.
- Peace keeping operation: India is the largest contributor to UN-mandated peacekeeping and other operations in Africa, with more than 30,000 personnel involved in 17 of 22 total missions in the region since 1960
India’s developmental aid to Africa
- Health: As the COVID-19 pandemic has continued to affect the globe, the relatively developed India has used its economic capacity, medical equipment, and medicine, to assist African countrie The availability of Indian-manufactured drugs has also been essential in the fight against the HIV and AIDS pandemic in Africa.
- Capacity Building: Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) that aims at capacity building, skill development, transfer of technology and sharing of experiences with the partner countries.
- Around 5000 scholarships have been offered to officials from African countries under this.
- Development Assistance: In India Africa Forum Summit (2015), India announced a US$ 10 billion line of credit to help financing the projects in African countries, capacity building, IT education, and higher education.
Conclusion and way forward
- Development partnership guided by Africa’s priorities with focus on building local capacity and create local opportunities.
- Harnessing India’s experience with the digital revolution to support Africa’s development; improve delivery of public services; extend education and health etc.
- Partnership on improving agriculture, addressing climate change, strengthening cooperation and mutual capabilities in combating terrorism and extremism; keeping cyberspace safe and secure etc.
- Work together to ensure that Africa does not once again turn into a theatre of rival ambitions, but becomes a nursery for the aspirations of Africa’s youth.
General Studies – 3
Topic: Achievements of Indians in science & technology; indigenization of technology and developing new technology.
Difficulty level: Moderate
Reference: Indian Express
Why the question:
Government think-tank Niti Aayog has prepared a draft battery swapping policy, under which it has proposed offering incentives to electric vehicles (EVs) with swappable batteries, subsidies to companies manufacturing swappable batteries, a new battery-as-a-service business model, and standards for interoperable batteries, among other measures.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about the impact of shifting to electric vehicles on the environment, economy and foreign policy and also to examine India’s preparedness and measures taken so far to achieve the transition to electric vehicles.
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:
Start by describing the electric vehicles (EV) technology vis-à-vis fossil fuel based vehicles.
Body:
Mention the impact the EV can have on India economically in terms of reducing dependence on crude oil and reduced import bill and improved domestic energy independence.
Write about the environmental benefits of shift to EV – Give facts and figures relation to vehicular emission in India, the impact of it and how shifting to EV can be environmentally advantageous as well as sustainable in the long run.
Mention as to how there can be a potential shift in the foreign policy with more progression in EV, as we look beyond West Asia and towards Latin America.
Examine the various measures taken in this regard so far such as FAME-I, FAME-II, Developing domestic battery manufacturing capacity, mining for Lithium and Cobalt etc, Niti Aayog’s recent draft policy.
Conclusion:
Conclude with a way forward to ensure maximisation of potential benefits.
Introduction
An electric vehicle, uses one or more electric motors or traction motors for propulsion. An electric vehicle may be powered through self-contained battery, solar panels or an electric generator to convert fuel to electricity. India is among a handful of countries that supports the global EV30@30 campaign, which aims for at least 30 per cent new vehicle sales to be electric by 2030.
Body:
Potential of EVs in India
- Help tackle Climate change and air pollution:
- India has committed to cutting its GHG emissions intensity by 33% to 35% percent below 2005 levels by 2030.
- As per NITI Aayog’s report EVs will help in cutting down as much as 1 Gigatonne (GT) of carbon emissions by 2030.
- Electric vehicles don’t produce emissions that contribute to climate change and smog than conventional vehicles.
- All-electric vehicles produce zero direct emissions, which specifically helps improve air quality in urban areas.
- According to a recent study by WHO, India is home to 14 out of 20 most polluted cities in the world. EVs will help in tackling this problem by reducing local concentrations of pollutants in cities.
- Cost reduction from better electricity generating technologies. This has introduced the possibility of clean, low-carbon and inexpensive grids.
- Energy security:
- India imports oil to cover over 80 percent of its transport fuel.
- Electric mobility will contribute to balancing energy demand, energy storage and environmental sustainability.
- Electric vehicles could help diversify the energy needed to move people and goods thanks to their reliance on the wide mix of primary energy sources used in power generation, greatly improving energy security.
- Cutting edge Battery Technology:
- Advances in battery technology have led to higher energy densities, faster charging and reduced battery degradation from charging.
- Innovation:
- EVs manufacturing capacity will promote global scale and competitiveness.
- Employment:
- Promotion of EVs will facilitate employment growth in a sun-rise sector.
growth of electric vehicles in India
- As fuel prices skyrocket, there are rising concerns about the steep increase in the cost of running petrol and diesel vehicles. Electric vehicles seem to be coming into their own at last.
- The Indian electric vehicle market was valued at USD 1,434.04 billion in 2021, and it is expected to reach USD 15,397.19 billion by 2027, registering a CAGR of 47.09% during the forecast period (2022-2027).
- The National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP) and Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid & Electric Vehicles in India (FAME I and II) helped create the initial interest and exposure for electric mobility.
- To promote the domestic electric vehicle industry, the Indian government has provided tax exemptions and subsidies to EV manufacturers and consumers.
- In FY 2020, EV sales for two-wheelers in India increased by 21 percent. For EV buses, the sales for the same period increased by 50 percent. In contrast, the market for electric cars remained grim, registering a five percent decline.
- In terms of penetration, EV sales accounts for barely 1.3 per cent of total vehicle sales in India during 20-21. However, the market is growing rapidly and is expected to be worth more.
- India’s shift to shared, electric and connected mobility could help the country save nearly one giga-tonne of carbon dioxide emissions by 2030.
Various measures taken by the government to promote electric vehicles
- Most recently, Government think-tank Niti Aayog has prepared a draft battery swapping policy, under which it has proposed offering incentives to electric vehicles (EVs) with swappable batteries, subsidies to companies manufacturing swappable batteries, a new battery-as-a-service business model, and standards for interoperable batteries, among other measures.
- Government has set a target of electric vehicles making up 30 % of new sales of cars and two-wheelers by 2030.
- To build a sustainable EV ecosystem initiative like –National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP) and Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid &) Electric vehicles in India (FAME India) have been launched by India.
- NEMMP was launched with an aim to achieve national fuel security by promoting hybrid and electric vehicles in the country.
- FAME India Scheme was launched with the objective to support hybrid/electric vehicles market development and manufacturing ecosystem.
- The Union power ministry categorized charging of batteries as a service, which will help charging stations operate without licenses.
- Implementation of smart cities would also boost the growth of electric vehicle
Way Forward:
- For EVs to contribute effectively, we need commensurate efforts in developing an entire ecosystem.
- Need to shift the focus from subsidizing vehicles to subsidizing batteries because batteries make up 50% of EV costs.
- Increasing focus on incentivizing electric two-wheelers because two-wheelers account for 76% of the vehicles in the country and consume most of the fuel.
- A wide network of charging stations is imminent for attracting investment.
- Work places in tech parks, Public bus depots, and Multiplexes are the potential places where charging points could be installed. In Bangalore, some malls have charging points in parking lots.
- Corporates could invest in charging stations as Corporate Social Responsibility compliances.
- Addressing technical concerns like AC versus DC charging stations, handling of peak demand, grid stability etc.
- Private investment in battery manufacturing plants and developing low cost production technology is needed.
- India is highly dependent on thermal sources, which account for about 65% of current capacity. As EV adoption increases, so should the contribution of renewables.
- Need for a policy roadmap on electric vehicles so that investments can be planned.
- Acquiring lithium fields in Bolivia, Australia, and Chile could become as important as buying oil fields as India needs raw material to make batteries for electric vehicles.
- Providing waiver of road tax and registration fees, GST refunds and free parking spaces for EVs.
Topic: Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, robotics, Nano-technology, biotechnology and issues relating to intellectual property rights.
Difficulty level: Easy
Reference: Insights on India
Why the question:
Why the question: The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 3 and mentioned as part of Mission-2022 Secure timetable.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about applications of nano technology for the betterment of the society.
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:
Begin by defining nanotechnology.
Body:
First, write about the applications of nanotechnology – The applications of nanotechnology, commonly incorporate industrial, medicinal, and energy uses. These include more durable construction materials, therapeutic drug delivery, and higher density hydrogen fuel cells that are environmentally friendly.
Next, write about how these will help in our developmental objectives and our society,
Conclusion:
Conclude by summarising.
Introduction
Nanotechnology is the science of materials at the molecular or subatomic level. It involves manipulation of particles smaller than 100 nanometres (one nanometre is one-billionth of a metre) and the technology involves developing materials or devices within that size — invisible to the human eye and often many hundred times thinner than the width of human hair. The physics and chemistry of materials are radically different when reduced to the nanoscale; they have different strengths, conductivity and reactivity, and exploiting this could revolutionise medicine.
Body
Nanotechnology and nanomaterials can be applied in all kinds of industrial sectors. They are usually found in these areas:
- Electronics
- Carbon nanotubes are close to replacing silicon as a material for making smaller, faster and more efficient microchips and devices, as well as lighter, more conductive and stronger quantum nanowires. Graphene’s properties make it an ideal candidate for the development of flexible touchscreens.
- Energy
- A new semiconductor developed by Kyoto University makes it possible to manufacture solar panels that double the amount of sunlight converted into electricity. Nanotechnology also lowers costs, produces stronger and lighter wind turbines, improves fuel efficiency and, thanks to the thermal insulation of some nanocomponents, can save energy.
- Medicine & Healthcare
- Nanotechnology is already broadening itself in the areas of medical tools, knowledge, and therapies currently available to clinicians.
- The properties of some nanomaterials make them ideal for improving early diagnosis and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases or cancer. They are able to attack cancer cells selectively without harming other healthy cells. Some nanoparticles have also been used to enhance pharmaceutical products such as sunscreen.
- Nanomedicine, the application of nanotechnology in medicine, draws on the natural scale of biological phenomena to produce precise solutions for disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
- For example, better imaging and diagnostic tools enabled by nanotechnology are paving the way for earlier diagnosis, more individualized treatment options, and better therapeutic success rates.
- Environment
- Air purification with ions, wastewater purification with nanobubbles or nanofiltration systems for heavy metals are some of its environmentally-friendly applications. Nanocatalysts are also available to make chemical reactions more efficient and less polluting.
- Food
- In this field, nanobiosensors could be used to detect the presence of pathogens in food or nanocomposites to improve food production by increasing mechanical and thermal resistance and decreasing oxygen transfer in packaged products
- Textile
- Nanotechnology makes it possible to develop smart fabrics that don’t stain or wrinkle, as well as stronger, lighter and more durable materials to make motorcycle helmets or sports equipment.
- Future Transportation Benefits
- Nanotechnology offers the promise of developing multifunctional materials that will contribute to building and maintaining lighter, safer, smarter, and more efficient vehicles, aircraft, spacecraft, and ships.
- In addition, nanotechnology offers various means to improve the transportation infrastructure
- Everyday Materials and Processes
- Nanoscale additives to or surface treatments of fabrics can provide lightweight ballistic energy deflection in personal body armor, or can help them resist wrinkling, staining, and bacterial growth.
- Clear nanoscale films on eyeglasses, computer and camera displays, windows, and other surfaces can make them water- and residue-repellent, anti-reflective, self-cleaning, resistant to ultraviolet or infrared light, anti-fog, antimicrobial, scratch-resistant, or electrically conductive.
Conclusion
Nanotechnology offers the ability to build large numbers of products that are incredibly powerful. The development processes are heavily intertwined with biotechnology and information technology, making its scope very wide. Nanotechnology based products are capable of overcoming the limitations of traditional methods. But, the major challenges are yet to prevail over its toxicity, environmental hazards, production cost and accessibility to the un-reachable at far-off areas.
General Studies – 4
Topic: Case Study.
(a) Discuss some feasible strategies to overcome the conflict and to create right ambiance.
Difficulty level: Moderate
Why the question:
The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 4 and part of ‘Case Study Fridays’ in Mission-2022 Secure.
Introduction
The given case deals with the ethical issue of social (caste) discrimination on one side and issue of children dropping out of the school on the other. The ethical dilemma for the Sarpanch is keeping the Dalit cook employed and also encouraging parents to send their kids to school.
Body
Stakeholders of the case
- The Sarpanch
- Headmaster of the school and the cook in the school.
- The kids and their parents belonging to higher castes.
- Dalits in the society.
- Civil societies, NGOs working in social development.
- District administration, State and central governments.
Ethical issues involved in the case
- Caste-based Discrimination: The students are not attending the school after their parents are against the cook from Dalit community. It is the issue of still prevalent caste based social discrimination in the society.
- It is against humanity which focuses on the equality of all men.
- Constitutional Morality: Our constitution confers equal rights to all men and discriminating on the grounds of caste is against the constitutional morality.
- According to the constitution untouchability is a crime and cannot be promoted in any form.
Some possible strategies to overcome the conflict
- Persuading the Parents: I will hold a series of meetings with the school administration and the parents of the kids from higher caste communities.
- The parents can be persuaded to send their kids to school for the sake of their kids’ studies and career.
- Cook can be rested for some days: I will also hold meetings with all the communities of the village and try to build a society based on harmony, empathy and compassion.
- Meanwhile cook from the dalit community can be relieved from the job for a few days in order to calm down the immediate situation distrust and students would return to the school.
- Setting an Example: I will ask my family members and like-minded relatives to send their kids to government school and eat the mid-day meal cooked by the dalit cook.
- This can set an example for other upper caste families to follow the suit.
Responsibilities of different social segments and agencies to create positive social ambience
- School and Education system: Our education system must focus more on propagating social elements such as equality in society.
- If these values are inculcated in students of today, they can become better citizens of tomorrow.
- Gram Sabha: Gram sabha has a responsibility to bring a social change in the village. Being a Sarpanch, I will have this duty to inform all the members of the Gram Sabhas about the evils of casteism and untouchability and have launched a campaign for the boycott of these evils.
- Reducing conflicts: Efforts are to be made to remove the conflicts between different social groups that can give rise to fights. If this can be eliminated then it would be a big achievement in bringing social equality.
- Local Administration and Civil Society: Local administration, police and civil societies have a responsibility to spread the awareness about the rights of lower caste communities. They should continuously work towards the integration of the society.
Conclusion
The measures taken for correcting the evil of social discrimination may not show immediate impacts but the efforts should continue. Tactics of social influence and persuasion will surely help in reducing caste barriers and achieving an equal society
Join our Official Telegram Channel HERE for Motivation and Fast Updates
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel HERE to watch Motivational and New analysis videos
[ad_2]