AIR 267 · CSE 2024 · GS3 · 53 pages

Ankit Agrawal: GS3 answer copy

20 answers by Ankit Agrawal, as written in the test. Each question opens a page with how other toppers answered it.

The questions

  1. Q1Highlighting the factors contributing to high fiscal deficit in India, discuss the potential consequences of such deficit and suggest measures to ensure fiscal consolidation.10 marks
  2. Q2India's aspiration to be a developed nation by 2047 hinges on significant capital investment. In light of this, discuss the potential of capital investment in achieving this vision. What are the challenges India faces in this regard?10 marks
  3. Q3"With growing urbanization, peri-urban agriculture is emerging as a significant contributor to fresh farm produce needs". In this context, discuss the opportunities and challenges associated with promoting peri-urban agriculture in a sustainable manner.10 marks
  4. Q4What are the major challenges faced by India's agriculture sector to achieve self-sufficiency in pulses and vegetable oils? Suggest measures to address these challenges.10 marks
  5. Q5Evaluate the potential of biomanufacturing and bio-foundry in driving India's future towards a sustainable green economy.10 marks
  6. Q6What are the principles behind the working of Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV)? Explain the significance and potential benefits of use of RLVs in India's space commerce.10 marks
  7. Q7Examine the key features of the Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS) 2023. Analyze its potential for mitigating greenhouse gas emissions in India.10 marks
  8. Q8In light of the increased intensity, frequency and duration of heat waves in the last decade, do you think the time has come to include "heat waves" as a notified disaster under the Disaster Management Act, 2005?10 marks
  9. Q9Recently formulated 'joint doctrine for cyberspace operations' by Indian armed forces will lead to strengthening of the cyber-security posture for both conventional operations as well as gray zone warfare. Examine.10 marks
  10. Q10Discuss the necessity and potential issues surrounding the extension of the Border Security Force's (BSF) territorial jurisdiction in states adjacent to Pakistan and Bangladesh.10 marks
  11. Q11India's economic growth story is often overshadowed by the persistent challenges of unemployment. Analyze the concept of structural unemployment and discuss its relevance in the context of India's current economic situation. Suggest policy measures to promote inclusive job growth.15 marks
  12. Q12Discuss the role of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in fostering regional growth in India. How can MSMEs contribute to achieving industrial diversification and technological advancement?15 marks
  13. Q13"The sole point of MSP is to protect farmers from sudden price shock". Do you think legalization of MSP can insure farmers from sudden price shocks? What are the other measures which can be taken to make MSP-led procurement effective?15 marks
  14. Q14Discuss the role of the Food Corporation of India (FCI) in the Public Distribution System (PDS) to ensure food security in India. Suggest necessary reforms in the functioning of FCI to enhance its efficiency and effectiveness.15 marks
  15. Q15Discuss the role of nanotechnology in enhancing agricultural productivity and food security in India. Highlight recent developments and potential benefits and risks of use of nano-fertilizers and nano-pesticides.15 marks
  16. Q16The Nobel Prize in Physics of 2023 was jointly awarded to Ekimov, Brus and Bawendi for the discovery of synthesis of quantum dots. In this context, discuss the applications of quantum dots.15 marks
  17. Q17Evaluate the role of protected areas in biodiversity conservation in India. How effective have national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and biosphere reserves been in preserving India's biodiversity?15 marks
  18. Q18What are the causes of high levels of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) and ozone pollution in India. How effective are the various steps taken by the government to mitigate particulate matter and ozone pollution?15 marks
  19. Q19The International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) Report 2023 highlights a growing menace of drug trafficking in South Asia, with India being a major hub. Analyze the various dimensions of this challenge with respect to India. Also suggest a multi-pronged approach to address it.15 marks
  20. Q20India's response to left wing extremism needs to integrate soft approaches like socio-economic policies and dialogue along with hard security measures to address the root causes of Naxalism. Discuss.15 marks

The answers

Question 1 · 10 marks · 179 words written

Highlighting the factors contributing to high fiscal deficit in India, discuss the potential consequences of such deficit and suggest measures to ensure fiscal consolidation.

Opening · a date or context

Finance Minister in Budget 2024-25 announced fiscal deficit target of 4.9% which is much higher than 3% mandated by FRBM Act 2003.

Body · points and prose

Factors for high Fiscal deficit

  1. Capital expenditure for multiplier effect → Budget 2023-24 → 33% increase to Rs 10 lakh crore.

  2. Low Private Investment despite corporate tax cut → Stagnant at 13% since 2013.

Diagram
[Bar chart showing Fiscal Deficit %] - 2023-24: 5.4% - 2024-25: 4.9% - 2025-26: 4.5%

  1. Welfare based subsidies → food, fertiliser and petroleum subsidies contribute to Rs 3 lakh crore.

  2. legacy effect → high fiscal deficit regime during covid-19 → high revenue deficit.

⑤ Low tax to GDP ratio → lowest among BRICS nation at around 14%.

Diagram
[Mind map: Potential consequences] - Affect sovereign credit rating - Intergenerational inequality - Higher tax burden in future - Low spending on infrastructure creation - Inflationary effect in economy - Market instability (Stock market)

Measures for fiscal consolidation

① Rationalisation of subsidies → eg. Recent move on food subsidy.

② Innovative Tax solutions → GST, new direct tax regime.

③ Public-Private partnership → for infrastructure creation eg. BOT model for highways.

④ Reducing Revenue deficit → through focusing on decreasing interest payment.

⑤ Review FRBM Act → provide more dimensions to escape clause to meet with exigencies. Budget 2024-25 is on path to achieve the fiscal consolidation target by FY 26.

Close · a summary

None written.