Current Affairs January (Part 2)

As discussed earlier this is the second lot of questions for the month of January. 

1. Critically comment on the nature of relationship between the public and private sectors post-liberalization period in India. (200 Words) I.E
2. “The systems and strategies put in place to reach every child in every part of the country with lifesaving polio vaccines can be used to save millions of children from other preventable diseases.” Elaborate. (200 Words)  I.E
3. Is it in India’s interest to forge deeper relationship with Japan and Korea to counter China? Critically comment. (200 Words) I.E
4.“A comprehensive change in regulatory philosophy is required to bring about meaningful financial inclusion in India. This would entail a shift from the present bank-centric, mandate-driven approach to an emphasis on competition, innovation and consumer protection as the pillars of regulatory philosophy.” Elaborate. (200 Words)I.E
5. Write a critical note on the barriers to trade. How does WTO address to remove such barriers? (200 Words) Hindu
6. Critically examine the factors that led to Operation Bluestar in 1984. What were its consequences? (200 Words) Hindu 1 Hindu 2
7. What are the possible ecological, social and economic costs of unmitigated climate change for India? Critically examine. (200 Words) Hindu
8. Do you think the latest agreement reached on mitigating climate change are in tune with the recommendations of the IPCC? Critically evaluate. (200 Words) hindu
9. What is the role of society in providing proper environment and support to the disabled people? Do you think social model is more important than medical model in supporting disabled people? Comment. (200 Words) Hindu
10. Housing Start Up Index (HSUI) (150 Words) Hindu
11. Write a note on the depiction of Buddha in ancient Indian art. (200 Words) The Hindu

12. Evaluate India – Myanmar relations of last two decades. (200 Words) The Hindu

13. Africa is seen as a potential destination for future investments and business by both the developed and emerging economies. Give a reasoned account for this shift in opinion. (200 Words)The Hindu

14. What is the strategic importance of raising energy boom in USA? Comment. (200 Words)The Hindu

15. What are Optionally fully convertible debentures (OFCD) and why they were in news? (200 Words)Hindu

16. Comment on the present visa policy between India and Pakistan. (200 Words) The Hindu

17. Write a note on the model and success story of fertilizer cooperatives in India. (200 Words)The Hindu

18. Examine the implications of deeper strategic ties between India and Korea in the Asia-Pacific region. (200 Words) The Hindu

19. What possible role can China, India and Russia together play in Afghanistan once US withdraws most of its troops? Comment. (200 Words) The Hindu

20. Telhara university (100 Words)Hindu

21. What is fly-ash? What are it benefits? (200 Words)The Hindu

22. What are the possible national interests at play in Russia’s pursuance of proactive diplomacy in the middle East region? Comment. (200 Words) The Hindu

23. What is gene therapy? What are the latest breakthroughs in the field? (200 Words)The Hindu

24. “The Nachiket Mor report is a truly visionary document that should help the Reserve Bank and the government to initiate specific moves towards complete financial inclusion.” Comment. (200 Words)The Hindu

25. Explain the role of technology in boosting agricultural income for the farmers. Write a note on TN-IAMWARM (Irrigated Agricultural Management and Water Resources Management) project. (200 Words) The Hindu

26. What measures has government of India taken to meet the increasing demand for LPG in the country? Analyze. (200 Words) The Hindu

27. “To achieve modernisation, China needs to secure a peaceful international environment to develop itself, and safeguard and promote world peace with its development.” Comment. (200 Words)
 The Indian Express

28. “The quality and volume of public goods and services supplied by the government as well as the effectiveness and efficiency of welfare transfers determine the voter behaviour in India.” Analyze. (200 Words) The Indian Express

29. Critically analyze the role of the Istanbul process in bringing about stability and development to the Heart of Asia region.  (200 Words) The Hindu

30. Write a critical note on  the Transplantation of Human Organs (Amendment) Act, 2011 . (200 Words)

The Hindu

31. Write a not on the important recommednations of the Mihir Shah Task Force Committee on Comprehensive National Social Assistance Programme (Pension). (200 Words) The Hindu

32. Critically comment on the Japan’s ‘the Arc of Freedom and Prosperity’ strategy and its implications on India-Japan relations. (200 Words) The Indian Express

33. “With a proactive role based on the power of judicial review, the higher judiciary in India has attained an unprecedented significance. However, in the areas of judicial management and appointments, there is little scope for euphoria.” Comment. (200 Words) The Hindu

34. Do you think self-serving political system is to blame for the separatist movements in India? Comment. (200 Words) The Hindu

35. “Our simple masses did not understand how the British manipulated the Indian upper class to retain British culture as the supreme culture. ” Do you agree with this view? Substantiate. (200 Words) The Indian Express

36. Junbeel Mela (100 Words) The Hindu

37. Write a note on the Prevention of Parent-to-Child Transmission scheme. (200 Words) The Hindu

38. Critically evaluate India’s strategy and efforts to combat AIDS. (200 Words) The Hindu

39. What is the ecological significance of Sundarban forests? Explain the threats it is facing in the region.

The Hindu

40. Recent studies have found that despite increased outlays in education, especially after the RTE was passed, learning levels have remained stagnant in Indian schools. What are the reasons behind it? What needs to be done? Analyze. (200 Words) The Indian Express

41.“The new disabilities bill could help enshrine a more modern understanding of the issue.” Elaborate. (200 Words) The Indian Express

42.Why in your opinion does India lag behind China in manufacturing sector? Critically examine. (200 Words) The Indian Express Link – 2

43. “Economic progress in India has been hampered by weak institutions that are either complacent or rent-seeking or both.” Comment. (200 Words) The Indian Express

44.“Agriculture R&D, especially in the field of transgenics, is crucial to the economic prosperity of India.” Do you agree with this assessment? Comment. (200 Words) The Indian Express

45.Write a note on structure and mandate of  the National Disaster Response Force (200 Words) The Hindu

46. “Recent scientific breakthroughs that targeted rare genetic forms of brain disorders have identified pivotal developmental processes that are necessary for normal brain development. ” Elaborate. (200 Words) The Hindu

47.Write a critical note on the significance and objectives of setting up of Bharatiya Mahila Bank. How different is it from other banks? Explain. (200 Words) The Hindu

48. Comment on the key recommendations of the report of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)-appointed Committee on Comprehensive Financial Services for Small Business and Low Income Households. (200 Words) The Hindu 

49.  Write a note on the need for APMC reforms. (200 Words) The Indian Express

50.  “The current crisis in Thailand is an extension of the same partisan deadlock that has characterised the country’s politics for years.” Elaborate. (200 Words) The Indian Express

51. Critically analyze the latest developments that have taken place since Arab Spring revolutions. (200 Words) The Indian Express

52. What are the objectives of the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM)? Do we need two separate schemes for rural and urban population? Comment. (200 Words) The Hindu 

53. Discuss the salient features of city architecture of the Vijayanagar empire that was built in Hampi, in Karnataka.  (200 Words) The Hindu

54. Write a note on the contribution of Jainism to literature in ancient and medieval India. (200 Words) The Hindu

55. “From caste discrimination through forced marriages to sex-selective abortions, entrenched practices among sections of the British South Asian diaspora pose continuing challenges. ” Comment. (200 Words) The Hindu

56. Explain the salient features of  Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and highlight the need for ensuring food safety in India. (200 Words) The Hindu

57. Examine how India and Japan, as leading “maritime democracies”, can play a decisive role in promoting peace and prosperity in the ‘Indo- Pacific’ Region?. (200 Words) The Indian Exoress

58.  “Right to seek mercy under Article 72/161 is a constitutional right and it is not at the discretion or whims of the executive.” Elaborate. (200 Words) The Hindu

59. What is the composition and function of delimitation commission? Why is delimitation done? (200 Words) The Hindu

60.  “Targeted therapy, precision medicine and cancer genomics —  is the new vocabulary of cancer research and treatment.” Explain. (200 Words) The Hindu

61. “By desired outcomes of environment laws, we mean not a grant or rejection of clearance but substantive results like reducing environmental conflict, achieving social justice through decisions and ensuring the highest order of environmental compliance.” Elaborate. (200 Words) The Hindu

62. “India’s nuclear capability is disaggregated and with weak institutional features.” Critically comment. (200 Words) The Hindu

63. What is black money? Explain the measures taken by the RBI and government to curb it. (200 Words) The Hindu

64. Analyze the important provisions of the draft  Right of Citizens for Time Bound Delivery of Goods and Services and Redressal of their Grievances Bill, 2011. (200 Words) The Hindu

65. What are deemed universities and why were they conferred that status? Comment on the state of higher education in India in the light of controversy surrounding these deemed universities. (200 Words)

The Hindu

66. Do you support FDI in farm land? Substantiate. (200 Words) The Hindu

67. How does the interim nuclear deal agreed between Iran and P5+1 countries affect India? Examine. (200 Words) The Indian Express

68. “The Naga society is seething with multiple tensions intermittently erupting into morbid fratricidal violence.” Comment. (200 Words) The Hindu
69. Write a note on the recommendations of Urjit Patel committee that was set up by the RBI to revise and strengthen the monetary policy framework. (200 Words) The Hindu
70.  “Instead of trying to keep out companies from one country or the other, the government would do well to create a reporting and monitoring system that will enable security agencies to keep an eye on the activities of these companies, especially when it comes to blocks located close to defence installations.” Comment in the light of not granting licences to Chinese companies to invest in certain ‘sensitive’ sectors in India. (200 Words) The Hindu
71. Critically comment on the contribution of Subhas Chandra Bose to India’s freedom struggle. (200 Words) The Hindu
72.  What do you understand by money supply? What are the measures adopted in India to measure money supply? Explain. (200 Words) The Hindu
73.  What are the implications of  the Reserve Bank of India’s decision to phase out currency notes issued before 2005? Comment. (200 Words) The Hindu Editorial
74. Write a short note on Angariya courier system. Is it legal in India? (200 Words) The Hindu
75. What is spectrum management? Why radio frequency spectrum is a valuable resource? Explain in the context of India. (200 Words)  The Hindu Reference
76. “That auction should be a preferred route to allocate scarce resources such as spectrum is conditional upon getting the auction design right.” Analyze in the context of India. (200 Words)Hindu
77.  Ethoxyquin  (100 Words) The Hindu
78. What is Corporate Social Responsibility? Should it be enforced through legislation? Comment. (200 Words) The Hindu
79.  “…governance cannot simply mean growth any more but means the way it contributes through a discourse of accountability, institutional procedures and transparency to widening economic opportunities and a more inclusive democratic order.” Elaborate. (200 Words) The Hindu
80. How does inflation affect development? Examine the role of RBI in containing inflation. (200 Words)

The Hindu

81. What measures should India take to fight the spreading extremely drug-resistant tuberculosis (XDR-TB) strain? Explain. (200 Words)The Hindu

82. Critically comment on the role of family in the Indian society in producing socially responsible individuals. (200 Words) The Hindu 

83. Discuss the various threats faced by wildlife in India.  Do you think conservation efforts are defeated by the vested interests in and around the wildlife habitats? Comment. (200 Words) The Hindu
84. Write a note on the contribution of ICRISAT to the Indian agriculture. (200 Words) The Hindu
85.  “The India-Japan partnership is yet to move beyond the economic to the strategic.” Analyze. (200 Words) The Indian Express The Hindu
86. India’s manufacturing’s share in the GDP has remained stationary at 15-16 per cent for more than three decades now, far lower than the 25-35 per cent that characterises the East Asian economies. In the light of India’s 2011 ambitious National Manufacturing Policy (NMP), critically analyze the constraints it is facing in the manufacturing sector and how they can be overcome. (200 Words) The Indian Express
87. “Social attitudes need to change, reflecting liberal and humane values, if the country is to ensure gender equality and protection for all its women.” Comment. (200 Words) The Hindu
88. What is bond yield? Do they reflect the health of an economy? Explain. (200 Words) The Hindu
89.  “Recent recommendations by the RBI’s Urgit Patel committee  set up to revise and strengthen the monetary policy framework in India might not go well with the Finance ministry.” Comment. (200 Words) The Hindu
90. Should Chinese economic presence and strategic influence in Nepal worry India? Comment. (200 Words) The Hindu
91.  Explain with an example how poor countries can use traditional knowledge and native resources to bring development. (200 Words) The Hindu
92.  Comment on the shortcomings of criminal justice system t in India. (200 Words) The Indian Express
93.  “Populist anarchy cannot be a substitute for governance. “Comment in the light of recent political developments in the country. (200 Words) Business Standard (www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/president-cautions-against-unstable-govt-114012500877_1.html)
94. “The developing world cannot rely on a single instrument – the interest rate – to deal with both the domestic business cycle and the global financial cycle.” Elaborate. (200 Words) 
Business Standard (http://www.business-standard.com/article/opinion/alok-sheel-how-emerging-markets-deal-with-global-spillovers-114012500728_1.html)
95.  In our rural and urban areas  both water and sanitation are closely linked and hence the two should go hand in hand. Comment on the statement in the light of continuing practice of open defecation by large number of Indians and government’s efforts to bring sanitation from past 65 years. (200 Words)

Business Standard (http://www.business-standard.com/article/opinion/m-ramachandran-toilets-for-all-114012500727_1.html)

96. How and from where do government mobilize resources to narrow the fiscal deficit? Explain. (200 Words) The Hindu

97.  Suggest any out of the box solution to deal with Naxalism in India. Where do you think government is failing in dealing with naxal threat? Comment. (200 Words) The Hindu

98. As two Communist states, what has been the relationship between China and Russia since the break-up of USSR. Examine. (200 Words) The Hindu

99. What are the reasons behind protests against the government in Ukraine? Comment on the external factors in causing the protests. (200 Words) The Hindu

100. “The problem with the Palk Bay fishing conflict is precisely its interstate character.” Comment. (200 Words) The Hindu

101. “To India’s   national security interests, Japan is irreplaceably valuable.” Comment. (200 Words) The Hindu

102. How is Genetically Modified crop is produced? Explain with an example. (200 Words) The Hindu

103. ““The policy of free power is a very bad idea and against the spirit of reforms.” Comment. (200 Words) Business Standard (www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/free-power-is-bad-policy-says-plancom-member-114012600347_1.html) The Indian Express The Hindu

104. Write a critical note on the role of bureaucracy in improving the education outcomes in Indian schools. (200 Words) The Indian Express

105. Write a critical note on recent controversies in the pharma sector in India. Does these development augur well for India’s health sector? Comment. (200 Words) Business Standard

(http://www.business-standard.com/article/opinion/indian-pharma-s-twin-woes-114012701141_1.html)

106. What is the mandate of UNHRC? Critically comment on its functioning citing any two recent examples. (200 Words) The Hindu

107. Write a critical note on the role of judiciary in ensuring social justice in India. (200 Words) The Hindu

108. What is current account deficit?  What measures does government usually take to contain it? Comment on the effects of such measures on the economy. (200 Words) The Hindu

109. What is genome or DNA sequencing? How does it help in diagnosis of diseases? (200 Words) The Hindu

110. “The escalating political crisis in Ukraine has cast a deep shadow over Russia’s relations with Europe.” Comment. (200 Words) The Hindu

111. Do you think escalating conflicts between fishermen between maritime neighbors across the world is an indication of deteriorating food security situation? Comment. (200 Words) The Hindu

112.”The lack of involvement of beneficiaries, who are systematically disempowered and discouraged from questioning service delivery and holding implementing agencies accountable, is one of the key reasons for implementation failure of various government schemes.” Elaborate highlighting the importance of social audits. (200 Words) The Indian Express

113. “The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) has served as the major catalyst in the global movement from viewing persons with disabilities as objects of charity, medical treatment and social protection towards viewing them as full and equal members of society, with human rights.” Critically analyze in the context of India’s efforts at passing a legislation for disabled persons on the line of above mentioned convention. (200 Words) The Indian Express

114. “Syria is coming close to shifting from an India-friendly regime to a possibly hostile, Islamist regime.” Comment and highlight what should be India’s approach. (200 Words) The Hindu

115. Critically comment on the deep sea trawling and its effect on marine biodiversity in the Indian context. (200 Words) The Hindu

116. Critically evaluate the NRLM and its objectives. (200 Words) The Hindu

117. Critically examine the issues involved around mining in sensitive areas like Western Ghats. In your opinion, what should be the government’s approach? Comment. (200 Words) The Hindu

118. What are the effects of diesel price regulation on the economy and who are the beneficiaries? Do you support its price deregulation? Explain why. (200 Words) The Hindu

119. Do you support plebiscite in Kashmir to find a peaceful solution for its future? Critically comment. (200 Words) The Hindu

120. Write a note on the adverse effects of plastic on the environment. (200 Words) The Hindu

121. Write a note on the need and highlights of draft   Regulatory Reforms Bill, 2013. (200 Words) The Hindu

122. “Between India and Japan, the strategic component of the relationship has increased dramatically over the last four years.” Examine. (200 Words) The Hindu

123. What are the technologies available for recycling or using the urban waste for productive purposes? Explain. (200 Words) The Hindu

124. Write a critical note on Ravindranath Tagore’s views on education. (200 Words) The Hindu

125. “India’s curriculum outpaces what pupils can realistically learn and achieve in the time given”. Comment on the statement in the light of recent findings by various reports about the poor quality of education in India. The Hindu

126. “The lasting solution for the sugar sector’s woes, indeed, lies in striking a balance between the demand – both domestic and export - and output of sugar and sugarcane.” Elaborate. (200 Words) Business Standard

(www.business-standard.com/article/opinion/failing-on-sugar-114012901294_1.html)

127. “Despite the current decade being called India’s “decade of innovation”, the country has been ranked at the bottom of the list of 25 countries in terms of its intellectual property (IP) environment.” Explain why. (200 Words) Business Standard (www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/protecting-patents-india-worst-in-world-114012900371_1.html)

128. Does India need an independent autonomous regulator for the environment sector? Comment. (200 Words) Business Standard

(www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/green-panel-to-come-under-regulator-114012900930_1.html)

129. “It is high time that India embarked on creating the next generation of IT companies, which can move up the value chain. ” Comment in the light of India’s stand on global internet governance. (200 Words) The Indian Express

130. “In India, social and economic conditions in India are not ripe for the total abolition of state killings in the form of the death sentence.” Critically comment. (200 Words) The Indian Express

131. What is round-tripping? Analyze the trade relations between India and Mauritius. (200 Words) The Hindu

132. What are the major problems being faced by Indian cities in providing adequate, safe and rapid urban transport system? Explain the steps taken by the union government in this regard. (200 Words) The Hindu

133. At present how a Supreme Court judge is appointed? Do you think it’s a fair system? Comment. (200 Words) The Hindu

134. “ Handloom sector is being deliberately suffocated and killed and it is not a subsidy guzzling sunset industry as is being projected.” Comment. (200 Words) The Hindu

135. With special reference to India, examine the issues related to immigration reforms in USA. (200 Words) The Hindu

136.. “The NATO has repeatedly tried to invent new roles for itself since the collapse of Soviet Union and the Warsaw Treaty Organisation in 1991.” Comment. (200 Words) The Hindu

Current Affairs

Dear All,

Though we have a lot to do and we need to cover a lot for the test series that we have enrolled, but still we cannot ignore the importance of Hindu and daily answer writing practice. I will be updating impotant questions from Hindu on fortnightly basis. and we can keep on posting answers here. As we all know the importance of writing articles but it will be best if we could write in our own words and remember things in a simplified way. 

 1. Write a critical note on the advantages and disadvantages of GM foods.  (200 Words) Hindu

  2.Write a short note on following dance forms (50 Words each)

    Sangrai Mog

   Margam Kali

   Chakri

  Panthi Nritya

  Dollu Kunitha

  Silambattam   Hindu

3.What do you understand by economic reforms?  Compare and contrast India’s and China’s approach towards economic reforms in the past twenty years. (200 Words) Hindu
4. “The empowerment of women empowers the society.” Critically comment in the Indian context. (200 Words) Hindu
5. “It is imperative that the government reviews the methods of gathering data on poverty estimates without further delay and significantly retool its development schemes.” Comment. (200 Words) Hindu
6. What is subsidy? Explain the rationale behind providing subsidy to petrol, diesel and kerosene in India? Why is there an opposition to continuation of subsidies? (200 Words) Hindu
7. Write a critical note on the functioning of the speaker in Loksabha and state assemblies. (200 Words) Hindu
8. Critically analyze the roles and responsibilities of CAG in India. (200 Words) Hindu 1 Hindu 2
9. Recent study has shown that a good majority of the wild tiger deaths in the country was the result of poaching. Discuss the threat of  poaching to wildlife and the measures taken by the government in wildlife conservation. (200 Words) Hindu
10. What is the difference between PSLV and GSLV? Why GSLV is important? (200 Words) Hindu
11. Write a note on PURA model. (200 Words) Hindu
12. Explain what is fiscal deficit and current account deficit? (200 Words) Hindu
13. Write a note on the National Nutrition Mission (200 Words) Hindu
14. What is GPS? Explain the technology involved in it. What are its uses? (200 Words) Hindu
15. What is the difference between CNG, PNG and LPG? Explain (200 Words) Hindu Reference
16. Write a not on Cryosphere (150 Words) Hindu
17. Assess the impact of climate change on societies. (200 Words) Hindu

18. Throw light on use of e-technology in the aid of farmers. Give examples. (200 Words) Hindu

19. What is civil society? Do you think it should actively involve in power politics to achieve the development agenda? Critically comment. (200 Words) Hindu 
20. Write a note on Power System Development Fund (PSDF)  (200 Words) Hindu
21. What were the recommendations of  the Naresh Chandra Committee on defence reforms? (200 Words) Hindu
22. Write a note on India’s  Mega Power Projects Policy  (200 Words) Hindu
23. What measures has government of India taken to ensure safety of nuclear reactors in India post-Fukushima nuclear disaster? Do you think nuclear energy is a safe option? Substantiate. (200 Words) Hindu 
24. It appears that strong laws do not act as deterrent to crimes. In you opinion, what government and society can do to stop crimes like rape and harassment of women? (200 Words) Hindu
25. What is endosulfan? What were the effects of use of endosulfan on the human population? (200 Words) Hindu 
26. What factors cause winter in northern and southern hemispheres?! Also it is said that Australians celebrate Christmas in summer. Why?(200 Words)(basics) Hindu
27. What are the environmental and health problems involved in gold mining? Explain with examples. (200 Words) Hindu
28. Critically comment on the influence of consumerism and high economic growth on the health of the society. (200 Words) Hindu
29. What is time zone and how is it determined? Does India need another time zone? Explain why. (200 Words) Hindu
30. “Neoliberalism has failed the vast majority of India’s people. But the spirit that gave the nation independence is stirring.” Comment. (200 Words) Hindu 
31. What do you understand by electoral reforms? What were the recommendations of the Election Commission on electoral reforms? Analyze. (200 Words) Hindu
32. Some argue that Indian youth, especially vast majority of engineering graduates lack necessary skills to work in innovation industries. Do you agree with the view? Substantiate. (200 Words) Hindu
33. Explain the locational factors that made Bangalore software hub of India. (200 Words) Hindu
34. What were the consequences of Korean war? Explain. (200 Words) Hindu
35. Write a note on the Indian Regional Navigational Satellites System (IRNSS) How well is ISRO placed in terms of commercialization of its space missions? Analyze. (200 Words) The Hindu Hindu Hindu 
36. Write a note on  The Nalanda University (Amendment) Bill 2013 (200 Words) Hindu
37. What causes cold waves in Northern part of India during winters? Explain (200 Words) Hindu 
38. What efforts have been made by UN and its agencies to protect children and women in war affected countries like Afghanistan? Examine (200 Words) Hindu
39. Write a note on the structure and causes of volcano. (200 Words) Hindu
40. What is social audit? How effective is social audit in effective implementation of many government schemes? Explain with examples. (200 Words) Hindu 
41. What measures has government of India taken to protect wildlife from illegal trade and poaching. Give examples. (200 Words) Hindu 
42. What is Environment Impact Assessment? Do you think India’s EIA process is free from weaknesses? Comment. (200 Words) Hindu
43. Examine how India managed to eradicate polio in the country. (200 Words) Hindu
44. Critically comment on the influence of economic liberalization on the nature of social movements in India in the last two decades. Hindu
45. Why is the success of GSLV mission so important for India? Explain. (200 Words) Hindu
46. Write a note on the defence cooperation between India and japan. Do you think it is in India’s interest to forge stronger strategic ties with Japan? Comment. (200 Words) Hindu
47. What were the important findings and recommendations of Sachar committee report? (200 Words) Hindu 
48. What is financial inclusion? What measures have been taken by the government and the RBI to bring financial inclusion? Do you think they have succeeded? Examine. (200 Words) Hindu
49. Do you think protests against setting up of nuclear projects in India are justified? Substantiate. (200 Words) Hindu 
50. What are the economic, cultural and sociological reasons behind lack of proper toilets in the majority households in India? Do you think ‘Nirmal Bharat Abhiyaan (NBA) Scheme’ would eradicate the open defecation practice? Comment. (200 Words) Hindu
51. Write a note on the measures taken to reform taxation in India. (200 Words) Hindu
52. Uttarayan festival (50 Words) Hindu
53. What is Sethusamudram project? Why is is being opposed? (200 Words) hindu 
54. Write a not on the importance of stratosphere for the Earth and its inhabitants. (200 Words) Hindu
55. What is geothermal energy? How is it produced? Explain the world distribution of this energy resource. (200 Words) Hindu
56. Write a not on the distribution of coal in India. Explain the significance of coal to India’s economy. (200 Words) Hindu
57. Do you think common school system should be introduced in India to improve the quality of education? Comment. (200 Words) hindu
58. What are the important provisions of Right to Education act? Do you think it would improve the ‘quality’ of the education in India? Discuss. (200 Words) Hindu
59. “The purpose of enacting the Biological Diversity Act is to ensure that communities and local people who have worked hard for generations, reap the benefits of conservation.” Critically examine. (200 Words) Hindu
60. Do you think the New Exploration Licensing Policy (NELP) has helped India in increasing hydrocarbon production? What are the issues involved in implementation of this policy? Examine. (200 Words) Hindu
61. Improving Access to Affordable & Quality TB Tests (IPAQT)  (200 Words)Hindu
62. Efficient and transparent allocation of resources is must to boost growth and investment in the country. In the light of recent scams on the allocation of major resources, comment on the issues involved and their effect on governance and growth. (200 Words) Hindu
63. Write a note on  Integrated Programme for Older Persons (IPOP) scheme. (200 Words) Hindu
64. Cartridge-based nucleic acid amplification testing (CBNAAT) equipment (150 Words) Hindu
65. In your opinion how does a peaceful Kashmir help the Indian economy? Comment. (200 Words) Hindu
66. “Overcrowding in hospitals, malnutrition, unhygienic tropical environs heighten problem of fungal infection in India.” Highlight the magnitude of the problem, its causes and measures that need to be taken to improve the situation. (200 Words) Hindu
67. Write a note on the contribution of Sufi tradition to the culture of India. (200 Words) Hindu
68. In your opinion, what are the advantages and disadvantages of direct cash transfer to beneficiaries of various schemes? Should PDS continue in its present form? Explain why. (200 Words) Hindu
69. Analyze why India needs a comprehensive new disability rights legislation. (200 Words) Hindu
70. Write a note on the important hydrocarbon reserve regions of India. Highlight their significance. (200 Words) Hindu
71. Write a note on the Nuclear Materials Security Index (200 Words) Hindu
72. What are the possible applications of 3-D printing in the health and defence sector? Explain (200 Words) Hindu
73. What are the causes of high infant mortality rate (IMR) in India? Examine the measures taken by the government in reducing IMR. (200 Words) Hindu
74. Does DRDO need a separate commission like Atomic Energy Commission and Space Commission to make its laboratories more efficient and autonomous? Examine. (200 Words) Hindu
75. Is development becoming the victim in the fight for environment protection in India? In the light of recent controversies against mining in forest and tribal areas, critically analyze the question. (200 Words) Hindu
76. What are neutrinos? Why is there a keen interest on them? Explain. (200 Words) Hindu
78. Write a note on Technology Mission On Oilseeds, Pulses and Maize. Explain why India needs to increase the production of pulses. (200 Words) Hindu
79. Examine the causes of recent civil war in South Sudan. What has been the international response to the crisis? Explain with special reference to India’s response. (200 Words)  Hindu
80. What is the bone of contention between China and surrounding countries in the South China Sea? Explain the response of concerned regional multilateral organizations on the dispute. (200 Words) Hindu
81. “When the state responds to political violence in an indiscriminately heavy-handed manner, members of extremist groups will only harden their positions and hesitate to join the democratic mainstream.” Comment on the statement in the light of spreading left wing extremism. (200 Words) Hindu 
82. What is Western Disturbance? Discuss its significance to northern India. (200 Words) Hindu
83. Comment on the nature of economic relations between India and Nepal. (200 Words) Hindu
84. What are the reasons behind conflict between man and animal in the wildlife  regions? Explain with any recent examples. (200 Words) Hindu
85. “A democracy like India with a healthy tradition of debate on nuclear issues needs to balance transparency with the need to protect its citizens against terrorism.” Comment on the statement in the light of recent report placing India  at 23rd position out of 25 countries in terms of securing its nuclear stockpile from non-state actors. (200 Words) Hindu
86. Examine why Kerala has a more successful Panchayati Raj system compared to other states. (200 Words) Hindu
87. Write a note on the role of SEBI with special reference to its role in ensuring corporate governance. (200 Words) Hindu
88. What is  Index of Industrial Production (IIP)? Explain its significance. (200 Words) Hindu
89. Compare and contrast India’s relationship with South Korea and North Korea. (200 Words) Hindu
90. Comment on the role of health sector in addressing violence, particularly against women and girls. (200 Words) Hindu
91. Write a note on the composition and mandate of CRPF. (200 Words) Hinddu
92. What is cross-subsidisation? Do you think it is feasible in India to adopt cross-subsidisation and help the poor? Critically comment. (200 Words) Hindu
93. “It is said that  what is good for the U.S. will be good for other economies as well.” Elaborate. (200 Words) Hindu Hindu
94. What are the advantages and disadvantages of allowing FDI in retail sector in India? Do you think arguments made against it are justified? Comment. (200 Words) Hindu
95. Discuss the causes of river pollution in India and highlight with examples the threats posed by polluted rivers to environment and people . (200 Words) Hindu
96. What were the circumstances that led to the 1962 Indo-China war? Write a critical note on India’s preparedness in its borders to avoid 1962 like situation. (200 Words) Hindu
97. Write a note on the objectives and components of National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM) (200 Words) Hindu
98. “ Pluralism is the keystone of India’s civilisation and culture.” Comment. Hindu
99. “It is misleading to cast environmental safeguards and development as conflicting imperatives when they are vitally interlinked.” Do you agree with the statement? Elaborate. (200 Words) Hindu
100. Write a note on the beginning of India’s peaceful nuclear program? What are the challenges India is facing in setting up more reactors to meet the increasing demand for electricity? Discuss. (200 Words) Hindu
101. What is judicial activism? Do you think it is good for democracy? Justify.  Hindu 1 Hindu 2
102.  Write a note on climatological seasons of India. (200 Words) Hindu
103. What is biosafety? How has Indian government addressed this issue? (200 Words) Hindu
104.  Critically examine the problems that are being faced in the implementation of  the Right To Education (RTE) Act. (200 Words) Hindu
105. What is insurgency? Critically analyze the effectiveness of insurgencies as strategy to achieve political goals in India. How has India traditionally dealt with such insurgencies? (200 Words) Hindu
106. “The terrorist insurgency in Russia has its roots in wars fought between separatist Chechen rebels and Russian forces.” Comment. (200 Words) Hindu Reference BBC
107. Critically assess the democratic transition process that is taking place in Myanmar. (200 Words) Hindu
108. What are the objections raised by Pakistan to India’s hydroelectric projects in Kashmir? How has India addressed these objections? (200 Words) Hindu Hindu
109. “ A stable new government would be positive for the economy.” Explain how? (200 Words) Hindu
110. What is an Ecologically Sensitive Zone? Name such zones in India and the threats they are facing. (200 Words) Hindu
111. What is the difference between gas-based  and coal based thermal power plants? Highlight the advantages of each plants. (200 Words) Hindu
112. How did Communism spread to China? Explain how it affected China during and after the World War-II? (200 Words) Hindu
113.  What are the important provisions of the ILO’s Domestic Workers Convention 2011 (189)? In your opinion, does India truly adheres to these provisions? Comment. (200 Words) Hindu
114. What is quantitative easing (QE)? When and why does QE is done? (200 Words) Hindu
115. What is Globalization? Critically comment on its influence of the youth of India. (200 Words) Hindu
116. What measures would you suggest to Railway authorities in India to improve safety measures in trains? Comment. (200 Words) Hindu
117.  Explain the importance of ports to the Indian economy and throw light on the problems being faced by them. Hindu
118.  In your opinion why is it important to save Western Ghats? What measures would you propose to bring a balance between ecology and livelihood in these ecologically sensitive regions? (200 Words) Hindu
119. What is the difference between Geo-synchronous and geostationary orbit? What are the applications of Geo-synchronous satellites? (200 Words) Hindu
120. What are the limitations of National Pension Scheme? How these limitations can be addressed? (200 Words) Hindu
121. Define honesty and integrity. Explain the importance of these qualities for a public servant. (200 Words) Hindu
122. What is the composition and functions of proposed Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC) ? Explain why is it being introduced. (200 Words) Hindu
123. What  are the objectives of NRLM?  (200 Words) Hindu
124. What is census? What is the rationale behind conducting the socio-economic caste census? (200 Words) Hindu
125. Paullins maps  (50 Words) Hindu