AIR 46 · CSE 2024 · GS3 · 53 pages

Rahul Shekhar: GS3 answer copy

20 answers by Rahul Shekhar, 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. Q15Discuss the role of nanotechnology on 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
  15. 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
  16. 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
  17. 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
  18. 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
  19. 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
  20. QStudent Query

The answers

Question 1 · 10 marks · 189 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 figure

Fiscal deficit in India is nearly 5.8% of GDP in FY23-24 and is much beyond the 3% target as per FRBM.

Body · points and prose

Diagram
- Factors - 1) low tax to GDP ratio - Bar chart showing Tax/GDP on y-axis, countries on x-axis: - India: 17% - China: 24% - OECD: 35% - 2) Populist measures - farm loan waivers, non-asset creating subsidies. - 3) Inefficient taxation machinery - leakages - lots of exemptions. - 4) Government thrust on capex through borrowing. - Eg: 11.1 trillion capex for FY24-25. - 5) off budget borrowings. - 6) inefficient PSEs
Diagram
Potential consequences - 1) High interest burden - largest component of expenditure in budget - 2) Burden on future generations - 3) Out-migration due to tax burden on narrow middle class - 4) High interest rates → Crowding out effect

Suggested measures -

  1. Simplify tax structure
  • less slabs, minimal exemptions.
  1. focus on disinvestment and asset monetisation targets.
  2. Widen tax base → Rich farmers.
  3. Political consensus for NO FREEBIES.
  4. Build strong financial sector to provide cheaper credit
  5. curb off budget borrowings through a law.

Fiscal stability is the key pillar of sustainable growth at high pace.

Food corporation of India procures, stores and delivers the food grains and is a vital link in India's food security system, but is marred with inefficiencies.

Role of FCI

Diagram
- Buy grains from markets (APMC mandis) (By FCI) -> Store in godowns (self as well as rented) (By FCI) - Store in godowns -> Transfer to States based on quota allocated (By FCI) - Transfer to States -> States then sell the grains to people as per NFSA, 2013 (By states)
Diagram
- Issues with FCI - 1) Transfer related inefficiencies - Leakages while transporting - No proper accounting - 2) Storage losses - Nearly 25 MMT per annum - Reduce shelf life - 3) Corruption - Selling outside - Record tampering - 4) Low technological usage - Data management issues - 5) Lack of standard warehousing practices

Desirable reforms in FCI -

  1. Use of GPS tracking systems to ensure no divergence while transit.
    • Work in progress.
  2. Focus on grading and sorting
    • Quality should be focussed
  3. Standard practises like Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) should be implemented.
  4. Blockchain integration
    • Immutable sale and purchase data.
  5. Storage efficiency enhancement
    • Cold chains
    • Proper disinfectant usage etc.

Close · a summary

Proper functioning of FCI will help us reduce our food subsidy bill substantially.