AIR 32 · CSE 2023 · GS3 · 52 pages

Arjun Gupta: GS3 answer copy

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

The questions

  1. Q1The consequences flowing from genetically modified organisms are debatable, but the advantages justify the risk. Do you agree? Discuss.10 marks
  2. Q2How are fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) different from battery electric vehicle (BEV)? Highlighting advantages of electric vehicles, suggest measures for accelerating e-mobility adoption in the country.10 marks
  3. Q3Space based technologies are helpful in not only monitoring development, but also enhancing it. Discuss.10 marks
  4. Q4Ensuring sustainable consumption and production patterns for an environmentally conscious world is not possible without fundamental changes in lifestyle. Discuss this statement in light of Lifestyle for the Environment (LiFE) Movement.10 marks
  5. Q5Managing risks, rather than impacts, lies at the core of effective disaster management strategy. In light of this statement, describe the flood risk profile of India and evaluate preparedness for effective flood management.10 marks
  6. Q6Solar power sector is not only leading the mitigation efforts against climate change, but the innovations in solar power can also accelerate adaptation of agriculture to a new reality of changed climate. Discuss.10 marks
  7. Q7Necessitated by contingent law & order situation in the North-Eastern states in 1958, Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) continues to be applicable even after six decades of its enactment despite widespread criticism. Critically evaluate the utility of AFSPA in light of prevailing security environment in the country.10 marks
  8. Q8Why has fake news on the internet emerged as an internal security challenge? How can we identify a fake news? Also, throw light on legal and institutional arrangements to tackle fake news.10 marks
  9. Q9Discuss the salient features of Agnipath scheme. Underlining the benefits of the scheme, mention ways to overcome associated challenges.10 marks
  10. Q10Examine how advancements in technology has allowed organize crime syndicates to not only expand but also diversify their activities. Also recommend suitable measures to tackle the menace of organized crime.10 marks
  11. Q11Nanotechnology is an inter-disciplinary and inter-connected science that has revolutionary applications across sectors. In this perspective, discuss the relevance of nanotechnology for socio-economic development in the country.15 marks
  12. Q12The increasing demand for stronger Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) protections is motivated by a desire to invigorate a groundswell of innovation, but it is more likely to lead towards IP monopolies. Examine.15 marks
  13. Q13New age digital technologies are creating disruptions that open fascinating opportunities and pose frightening threats. Give an account of how digital disruptive technologies are changing our lives.15 marks
  14. Q14Single use plastic (SUP) is a health, economic and environmental scourge, that requires governments to regulate, businesses to innovate and individuals to act. Examine in context of recently introduced ban on SUPs.15 marks
  15. Q15Green hydrogen can be the engine of a sustainable economy, but it would require crossing financial and technological barriers. Discuss the reasons for increasing interest in green hydrogen and challenges in its adoption as the fuel of the future.15 marks
  16. Q16Making the invisible groundwater visible is critical for building climate resilience and achieving sustainable development goals. Examine.15 marks
  17. Q17Despite the presence of a strong institutional framework and clearly stated policy, huge losses in terms of human, financial, environmental and livelihood show that India still struggles in effective management of disasters. Discuss the reasons for the gap between policy and practices related to disaster management in the country.15 marks
  18. Q18Present a brief account of various security forces deployed to protect India's terrestrial and maritime borders. Also, bring out various challenges faced by border security forces and suggest measures to effectively address them.15 marks
  19. Q19In what ways management of maritime borders differ from that of territorial borders? Also, analyze various vulnerabilities that arise from a large maritime boundary of the country.15 marks
  20. Q20Cyberthreats can wage a dual war on the state and citizens, disrupting the national security as well as social stability. Explain.15 marks

The answers

Question 1 · 10 marks · 152 words written

The consequences flowing from genetically modified organisms are debatable, but the advantages justify the risk. Do you agree? Discuss.

Opening · a definition

Genetically Modified organisms are the organisms which have been altered through biotechniques through gene manipulation resulting in properties favorable for human use. Some prominent examples - Bt Cotton, Transgenic cows, etc.

Body · points

  • Advantages of GM Organisms
  1. Higher productivity: GM crops like IR8, Bt-Cotton yield high productivity => boosting income of farmers.
  2. Control against pests and diseases - for eg Bt-Cotton immune to Pink Bollworm, transgenic cows resistant to FMD diseases.

③ Climate resilience through water hardy and temperature resistant species. Eg. Bt-Rubber recently introduced

④ New Geographies to plant crops which will boost food security

  • Risks of GM crops

① Carcinogenic impact leading to cancer & other diseases

② Invasive species by building anti-microbial resistance among existing pesticides

③ Proliferation of pest fertilisers => Leading to eutrophication

Close · a way forward

Thus, the GM crops offer a solution to food security issues but a robust mechanism through GEAC approval should continue to operate