AIR 55 · CSE 2024 · GS3 · 58 pages

Ritika Chitlangia: GS3 answer copy

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

The questions

  1. Q1Highlighting the factors contributing to a 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. Q3Comment on the important changes with respect to the Long-Term Capital Gains (LTCG) and Securities Transaction Tax (STT) in the Union Budget 2024-25. Evaluate the impact of such changes on India's savings and investment regime.10 marks
  4. Q4India's welfare scheme has undergone a shift from an input-based approach to outcome-based empowerment with the maxim of “no person left behind”. In light of the above statement, discuss how this change in the approach of the government has fostered inclusive growth.10 marks
  5. Q5"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
  6. Q6What 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
  7. Q7The rainfed nature of India's agriculture makes it more susceptible to climate change. Highlight the importance of quality irrigation in the climate-adaptability of agriculture. What measures can be undertaken to improve the overall efficiency of the available irrigation practices in India?10 marks
  8. Q8Considering the importance of livestock in Indian agriculture, analyze how investment in animal husbandry can help in incentivizing Indian agriculture.10 marks
  9. Q9Examine the key features of the Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS) 2023. Analyze its potential for mitigating greenhouse gas emissions in India.10 marks
  10. Q10The Public Accounts Committee has recently flagged concerns about the rising menace of plastic pollution. In this context, highlight the recent initiatives taken by the Government to curb plastic pollution.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. Q13While startups in India have achieved notable success in fostering entrepreneurship and innovation in the economy, there are certain structural issues challenging the sustainability of startups in India. Elucidate upon these challenges faced by startups and recommend practical solutions to the problems.15 marks
  14. Q14Critically evaluate the effectiveness of public-private partnerships in the modernization of railway infrastructure in India. Considering safety as one of the major challenges for railways, what measures can be taken to improve the overall safety parameters of Indian Railways?15 marks
  15. Q15Discuss 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
  16. Q16Discuss the role of nanotechnology in enhancing agricultural productivity and food security in India. Highlight recent developments and potential benefits and risks of the use of nanofertilizers and nano-pesticides.15 marks
  17. Q17"Farming becomes remunerative if the produce reaches our plates in time". In this context, highlight the upstream and downstream issues faced by the agriculture marketing and transport sector in India. What initiatives can be undertaken to improve the overall efficiency of the sector?15 marks
  18. Q18India's agriculture export-import policies are tilted more towards the consumers rather than the farmers. In light of the given statement, critically analyze the impact of import and export policies on farmers. What measures can be undertaken to shield farmers from import-export price shocks?15 marks
  19. Q19Evaluate 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
  20. Q20What 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

The answers

Question 1 · 10 marks · 168 words written

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

Opening · a figure

According to the Union Budget 2024-25, India's fiscal deficit has reached 5.6%, reducing from an all time high of 9.2% in 2020-21.

Body · points

Factors contributing to high fiscal deficit

  1. High revenue expenditure ⇒ constituting nearly 18% of the total expenditure.

  2. Low direct tax realisations ⇒ only 11% of the population forms a part of the tax base, as compared to 33% in OECD countries.

  3. High levels of populist spending ⇒ 1.4% of GDP on loan waivers.

  4. Geopolitical supply shocks ⇒ high trade deficit.

Consequences

  • crowding out of private investment
  • high indirect tax burden
  • Poor credibility ratings by global firms
  • Increase in off-budget borrowings
  • low capital expenditure

Measures

  • Re-legislating the Fiscal responsibility & Budget management Act.
  • Establishing the Fiscal stability & Deficit council
  • Exploring the prospects of taxing agriculture income.
  • Rationalising subsidies and tax concessions.

Close · a source

Thus, as per the NK singh committee, fiscal deficit needs to touch 3% by 2028, and the government needs to make reforms.