UPSC Civil Services (Main) Examination 2026 — General Studies-III (Paper-IV): Questions with Model Answers | Plutus IAS

23 Aug UPSC Civil Services (Main) Examination 2026 — General Studies-III (Paper-IV): Questions with Model Answers | Plutus IAS

The questions below are from General Studies-III (Paper-IV) of UPSC Civil Services (Main) Examination 2026 (held 2026-08-23) — the actual paper, which is public. Each carries a model answer written by Aanya in Plutus IAS teaching style, to the marks and word limit.

Q1. What do you mean by Digital Rupee? In this context, explain the working and progress of India’s Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC). (Answer in 150 words) (15 marks)

Digital Rupee (e₹) is the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) sovereign digital currency, issued in electronic form and denominated in the same unit as the Indian Rupee. Unlike cryptocurrencies, it is a legal tender backed by the central bank, ensuring stability, traceability, and monetary sovereignty. The Digital Rupee is part of RBI’s broader vision to modernize India’s payment ecosystem while maintaining control over money supply and financial stability.

Working of CBDC

The Digital Rupee operates on a two-tier distribution model—RBI issues CBDC to banks, which then distribute it to customers via digital wallets. Transactions occur peer-to-peer using blockchain or distributed ledger technology (DLT), ensuring transparency and immutability. The system supports both wholesale CBDC (for interbank settlements) and retail CBDC (for public use). Offline functionality is also being tested to enhance accessibility in low-connectivity areas.

Progress of India’s CBDC

RBI launched the Digital Rupee pilot (e₹-R) in December 2022, starting with wholesale transactions in select banks. By October 2024, retail pilots expanded to 13 cities, covering 1.5 million users and 200,000 merchants. The RBI’s “Project Digital Rupee – Retail” aims for nationwide adoption by 2026, with a focus on interoperability with UPI and offline payments. Globally, India ranks among the top 5 countries in CBDC progress, as per the Atlantic Council’s CBDC Tracker (2025).

Conclusion

The Digital Rupee is a strategic leap toward a cash-light, inclusive, and resilient digital economy. With phased expansion and robust infrastructure, it can reduce transaction costs, curb illicit finance, and bolster financial inclusion. As RBI refines the model, the Digital Rupee will redefine India’s monetary landscape in the digital age.

Q2. Examine the view that financial inclusion is an integral part of social and economic inclusion in a country like India. Also throw light on the usefulness of the R.B.I.’s Financial Inclusion Index. (Answer in 150 words) (15 marks)

Financial inclusion is not merely a policy objective but a foundational pillar for achieving comprehensive social and economic inclusion in India. It bridges the gap between marginalized communities and formal economic systems, enabling equitable access to credit, insurance, and savings instruments. Without financial inclusion, social disparities—especially among women, rural populations, and low-income groups—persist, exacerbating inequality. Economically, it fuels entrepreneurship, reduces poverty, and enhances GDP growth by integrating the unbanked into the formal sector. The RBI’s Financial Inclusion Index (FI-Index), introduced in 2021, quantifies inclusion across three dimensions: access, usage, and quality. With a score of 60.1 in 2023 (up from 53.9 in 2021), the index reflects progress driven by Jan Dhan Yojana (over 500 million accounts), Aadhaar-enabled payments, and digital public infrastructure like UPI (500+ billion transactions in 2024).

Dimensions of Inclusion

• Access: Expansion of bank branches (1.5 lakh in rural areas) and BCs (1.2 million) under the RBI’s Rural Financial Inclusion Plan.
• Usage: PM-KISAN and DBT transfers (₹3.5 lakh crore annually) demonstrate how inclusion translates to tangible welfare.
• Quality: Initiatives like Account Aggregator Framework (2021) and Digital Lending Guidelines (2022) ensure consumer protection and transparency.

However, challenges like low digital literacy, gender gaps (only 30% of Jan Dhan accounts are held by women), and cybersecurity risks persist. The FI-Index’s granular data helps policymakers target interventions, such as Gramin Dak Sevaks for last-mile connectivity or SHG-Bank Linkage for women-led inclusion. Moving forward, integrating AI-driven financial literacy and blockchain for secure transactions can further democratize access. Thus, financial inclusion is both a catalyst and a barometer of India’s inclusive growth trajectory.

Q3. Describe the various Technology Missions initiated in Indian agriculture and examine their role in food security. (Answer in 150 words) (15 marks)

Technology Missions in Indian Agriculture: Catalysts for Food Security

India’s agricultural landscape has been transformed through targeted Technology Missions that integrate science, policy, and market mechanisms to enhance productivity, resilience, and sustainability. These missions address critical gaps in input supply, post-harvest management, and value addition, directly contributing to food security by ensuring stable and sufficient food availability.

Key Technology Missions and Their Roles

• Technology Mission on Oilseeds and Pulses (TMOP) (1986): Launched to reduce import dependence, TMOP introduced high-yielding varieties, improved agronomic practices, and integrated pest management. It led to a 50% increase in oilseed production by 1996, reducing edible oil imports by 30%.
• National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA) (2014): Focused on climate-resilient agriculture, NMSA promoted precision farming, soil health cards, and micro-irrigation. Over 20 million soil health cards were issued, improving fertilizer use efficiency by 10-15% and enhancing drought resilience.
• Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) (2014): Aimed at doubling horticultural production, MIDH introduced drip irrigation, protected cultivation, and post-harvest infrastructure. It contributed to a 40% rise in horticultural output between 2014-2024, diversifying food baskets and reducing malnutrition.
• National Mission on Agricultural Mechanization (2014): Addressed labor shortages and inefficiencies by promoting farm mechanization. Subsidies for tractors, harvesters, and post-harvest equipment led to a 25% reduction in post-harvest losses, improving food availability.

Role in Food Security

These missions collectively enhance food security by boosting production (e.g., pulses from 14 million tonnes in 1986 to 26 million tonnes in 2024), reducing wastage (post-harvest losses down from 30% to 15%), and diversifying diets. They also strengthen resilience against climate shocks and market volatility, ensuring year-round food availability.

Conclusion

Technology Missions have been instrumental in transforming Indian agriculture from subsistence to sustainable productivity. By leveraging science and targeted interventions, they have fortified food security, but future missions must prioritize digital integration, climate adaptation, and equitable access to technologies to address emerging challenges.

Q4. Explain the factors responsible for inefficiency of agri-produce marketing. How e-commerce helps to reduce inefficiency of agri-produce marketing? Explain. (Answer in 150 words) (15 marks)

Inefficiencies in agricultural produce marketing stem from structural, infrastructural, and governance-related challenges that distort price discovery, increase transaction costs, and reduce farmer incomes. These inefficiencies manifest as wide price spreads, post-harvest losses, and limited market access for smallholders.

Key Factors Responsible for Inefficiency

• Fragmented Market Structure: Dominance of mandis under the APMC regime restricts competition, often leading to cartelization and exploitative practices like commission agent monopolies.
• Poor Infrastructure: Inadequate cold storage (only 30% of horticultural produce is stored), poor rural roads, and erratic power supply cause 15–20% post-harvest losses annually (NITI Aayog, 2023).
• Information Asymmetry: Farmers rely on local traders for price signals, leading to distress sales; only 40% have access to real-time price information (ICAR, 2022).
• Regulatory Barriers: Inter-state movement restrictions under the Essential Commodities Act and APMC laws hinder pan-India trade, exemplified by the 2020 farmer protests over farm laws.
• Financing Gaps: 85% of small farmers lack formal credit, forcing distress sales; NABARD reports only 10% have warehouse receipt financing access.

Role of E-Commerce in Reducing Inefficiency

Digital platforms like e-NAM (2020) and DeHaat connect farmers directly to buyers, cutting intermediaries and improving price discovery. E-commerce reduces transaction costs by 20–30% and enables real-time pricing via AI-driven analytics. Platforms like Farmley and Bijak use blockchain for transparent payments, reducing payment delays. During COVID-19, e-NAM’s digital mandi model ensured uninterrupted trade, with 1.6 million farmers participating and sales worth ₹3,000 crore (2021).

Conclusion

E-commerce disrupts traditional inefficiencies by democratizing market access, enhancing transparency, and integrating supply chains. However, its success hinges on last-mile connectivity, digital literacy, and regulatory harmonization to scale beyond pilot projects.

Q5. Explain by giving two examples, how biotechnology has helped the Indian farmers in processing their perishable crops. (Answer in 150 words) (15 marks)

Biotechnology has emerged as a transformative tool for Indian farmers, enabling them to process perishable crops into value-added products, reduce post-harvest losses, and enhance income. By leveraging microbial enzymes, fermentation techniques, and genetic modification, farmers can extend shelf life, improve nutritional quality, and tap into new markets. Two prominent examples illustrate this impact.

1. Enzymatic Processing of Fruits into Juices and Concentrates

India is the world’s second-largest producer of fruits, yet high perishability leads to significant losses—estimated at 20-30% for horticultural produce. Biotechnology interventions, such as the use of pectinase and amylase enzymes, have revolutionized fruit processing. For instance, the Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI), Mysuru, developed enzyme-assisted clarification techniques for mango and guava pulp, reducing processing time by 40% and improving yield by 15%. Small-scale units in Maharashtra and Karnataka now produce clarified fruit juices and concentrates with extended shelf life (up to 12 months), fetching premium prices in domestic and export markets. This has directly benefited farmers in the Konkan region, where mango cultivation is widespread.

2. Fermentation of Dairy and Cereal Wastes into Biofertilizers

Perishable dairy byproducts like whey and cereal residues (e.g., rice bran) are often discarded, contributing to environmental pollution. Biotechnology offers a sustainable solution through microbial fermentation. The Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) pioneered the use of Aspergillus niger and Trichoderma species to convert these wastes into biofertilizers. For example, in Punjab, dairy cooperatives collaborate with biotech startups to process whey into organic fertilizers, reducing chemical input costs for farmers by 25%. Similarly, in Tamil Nadu, rice bran is fermented into nutrient-rich biofertilizers, enhancing soil health and crop yields in paddy fields. These innovations not only mitigate waste but also create additional revenue streams for farmers.

As climate change intensifies post-harvest challenges, biotechnology will play an even greater role in ensuring food security and rural prosperity. Policies promoting public-private partnerships in biotech processing hubs can further amplify these benefits.

Q6. Distinguish between a Fast Breeder Reactor (FBR) and a thermal nuclear reactor. In the context of first indigenously developed prototype FBR at Kalpakkam, explain the term ‘criticality’. What are its implications for clean energy future of our country? (Answer in 150 words) (15 marks)

Introduction: Fast Breeder Reactors (FBRs) and thermal nuclear reactors represent two distinct generations of nuclear technology, differentiated primarily by neutron energy and fuel utilisation efficiency. While thermal reactors dominate global nuclear power today, FBRs offer a transformative pathway toward sustainable, closed-fuel-cycle energy systems.

Key Differences

• Neutron Energy: Thermal reactors use slow neutrons to sustain fission, typically moderated by water or graphite (e.g., Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors in India). In contrast, FBRs employ fast neutrons (energies > 1 MeV), eliminating the need for moderators.
• Fuel Cycle: Thermal reactors consume only 1–2% of uranium-235, leaving spent fuel rich in unused fissile material. FBRs, however, breed plutonium-239 from uranium-238, achieving near-100% fuel utilisation and reducing radioactive waste.
• Coolant: Thermal reactors often use water (light or heavy), while FBRs rely on liquid metals like sodium (as in India’s Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor, PFBR) due to superior heat transfer and compatibility with fast neutrons.

Criticality at PFBR, Kalpakkam

The term criticality refers to the state where a nuclear reactor’s fission chain reaction becomes self-sustaining (neutron production rate equals absorption + leakage). Achieved at PFBR on September 18, 2024, this milestone validated India’s indigenous FBR technology, utilising mixed uranium-plutonium oxide (MOX) fuel. Criticality marks the transition from sub-critical (non-self-sustaining) to operational readiness, enabling power generation.

Implications for Clean Energy

PFBR’s success positions India as a leader in closed fuel cycle technology, reducing dependence on uranium imports and cutting long-term waste volumes. With thorium reserves abundant in India (e.g., Kerala’s monazite sands), FBRs lay the groundwork for a three-stage nuclear programme, ultimately enabling thorium-based FBRs. This aligns with India’s net-zero 2070 goals by providing baseload, low-carbon electricity while minimising spent fuel storage burdens.

Conclusion: The PFBR’s criticality achievement is not merely a technological triumph but a strategic leap toward energy sovereignty and sustainability. By bridging the gap between current thermal reactors and future thorium-driven systems, India is poised to redefine its clean energy paradigm, demonstrating how innovation in nuclear technology can catalyse both economic growth and environmental stewardship.

Q7. Discuss how the contradiction between ‘rapid infrastructure development’ and ‘disaster-risk reduction’ in ecologically-sensitive areas of India can be managed, with suitable examples. (Answer in 150 words) (15 marks)

Managing the Contradiction Between Infrastructure Development and Disaster-Risk Reduction in Ecologically-Sensitive Areas

Balancing rapid infrastructure development with disaster-risk reduction in India’s ecologically-sensitive zones demands integrated planning that prioritizes both economic growth and ecological resilience. The contradiction arises as large-scale projects—such as dams, highways, and urban expansions—often encroach upon fragile ecosystems, increasing vulnerability to landslides, floods, and biodiversity loss.

Key Dimensions for Resolution:

• Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs): Strengthening EIA 2006 through the Kasturirangan Committee (2013) recommendations for Western Ghats conservation and the Gadgil Committee’s (2011) ecological sensitivity mapping can guide sustainable siting of infrastructure.
• Green Infrastructure: Promoting eco-friendly designs like elevated corridors in flood-prone Assam or solar-powered roads in Rajasthan reduces ecological disruption while enhancing disaster resilience.
• Community-Led Planning: The success of the Chipko Movement in Uttarakhand and the Mangroves for the Future initiative in Sundarbans demonstrates how indigenous knowledge and participatory governance mitigate risks.
• Technology Integration: Using satellite monitoring (ISRO’s Bhuvan) and AI-driven risk modeling (NDMA’s National Disaster Management Plan) enables real-time disaster forecasting and adaptive infrastructure design.

By embedding ecological safeguards into infrastructure policies and leveraging indigenous practices, India can achieve sustainable development without compromising disaster resilience.

Q8. Discuss the aim and goals of Kunming-Montreal global biodiversity framework. Mention India’s commitments and initiatives to achieve the goals and targets of this framework giving suitable examples. (Answer in 150 words) (15 marks)

Answer:

Introduction: The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), adopted at COP15 in December 2022, is a landmark agreement under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030. It sets four overarching goals and 23 action-oriented targets to achieve sustainable development and ecosystem resilience.

Goals and Targets:

• Goal A: Halt human-induced extinction of species and reduce extinction risk by 10% by 2030 (e.g., protecting 30% of land and sea areas under Target 3).
• Goal B: Ensure sustainable use of biodiversity and reduce pollution (e.g., halving nutrient loss and pesticide use by 2030 under Target 7).
• Goal C: Fair and equitable sharing of benefits from genetic resources (e.g., strengthening access and benefit-sharing mechanisms).
• Goal D: Mobilize $200 billion annually by 2030 for biodiversity finance (e.g., integrating biodiversity into national budgets).

India’s Commitments and Initiatives:

• 30×30 Target: India pledged to protect 30% of its land and ocean areas by 2030, launching the National Mission on Biodiversity and Human Well-being.
• Restoration: The National Mission for Green India aims to restore 26 million hectares of degraded land by 2030.
• Pollution Control: The National Clean Air Programme and Plastic Waste Management Rules align with Target 7.
• Finance: India committed $5 billion for biodiversity conservation under the Amrit Dharohar Scheme to promote sustainable wetlands.

Conclusion: India’s proactive stance, backed by legal frameworks and financial commitments, demonstrates its dedication to the GBF. However, robust monitoring and multi-stakeholder collaboration are essential to translate these commitments into tangible outcomes by 2030.

Q9. Explain how fake news and disinformation pose threat to Internal Security and Public Order in Indian context? In this regard, discuss salient features of amendments in respect of Information Technology (Intermediatory Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules 2021. (Answer in 150 words) (15 marks)

Fake news and disinformation are potent threats to India’s internal security and public order by eroding social cohesion, inciting violence, and destabilising democratic institutions. In the digital age, misinformation spreads rapidly through social media, messaging apps, and unverified news portals, often targeting vulnerable communities or exploiting religious and ethnic fault lines. For instance, the 2018 Kathua rape case saw fabricated narratives that intensified communal tensions, while the Delhi riots (2020) were fueled by WhatsApp forwards falsely linking protesters to anti-national activities. Such disinformation not only triggers immediate law-and-order breakdowns but also undermines trust in governance and electoral integrity.

Salient Features of IT (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021

• Due Diligence by Intermediaries: Platforms like Facebook and Twitter must appoint grievance officers, publish monthly compliance reports, and remove unlawful content within 36 hours of a court or government order.
• Traceability Provision: Messaging apps (e.g., WhatsApp) must enable identification of the first originator of misinformation, balancing privacy with national security needs.
• Digital Media Ethics Code: Publishers must adhere to a self-regulatory framework, with a three-tier grievance redressal system to curb fake news in OTT platforms and news websites.
• Fact-Checking Mechanism: The government can direct intermediaries to tag or remove content identified as fake by fact-checking units under the Press Information Bureau.

These amendments are a step toward regulating the digital ecosystem without stifling free speech. However, their implementation must be transparent, proportionate, and subject to judicial oversight to prevent misuse and ensure accountability in safeguarding India’s internal security and public order.

Q10. Ladakh is strategically located between China and Pakistan. As a measure to win hearts and minds of locals, discuss the Border Area Development Programmes (BADP) by the Central Government and civic actions by the Army. Also discuss demand of promulgation of provision of the Sixth Schedule of constitution for Ladakh. (Answer in 150 words) (15 marks)

Ladakh’s strategic location between China and Pakistan makes it a critical frontier for national security and socio-economic integration. To foster trust and development among locals, the Central Government has implemented the Border Area Development Programme (BADP), while the Army has undertaken civic initiatives under Operation Sadbhavana. Additionally, demands for the Sixth Schedule’s application to Ladakh highlight aspirations for greater autonomy and cultural preservation.

Border Area Development Programme (BADP)

The BADP, launched in 1986–87, funds infrastructure in border districts, including Ladakh. Between 2021–22 and 2025–26, over ₹1,200 crore was allocated to Ladakh for roads, schools, and healthcare. Projects like the Kargil-Zanskar road and Drass-Kargil tunnel have improved connectivity, while solar-powered schools in Nubra Valley enhance education access.

Army’s Civic Actions: Operation Sadbhavana

Since 1995, the Indian Army has executed Operation Sadbhavana, focusing on education, healthcare, and women empowerment. Over 1,000 medical camps have been held, benefiting 50,000+ locals. The Army’s Ladakh Scouts also run mobile schools in remote areas like Turtuk, ensuring no child is left behind.

Demand for Sixth Schedule in Ladakh

Local leaders, including the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC), demand the Sixth Schedule’s application to safeguard tribal rights and land ownership. The Gupkar Alliance and National Conference have echoed this, citing concerns over demographic changes and environmental degradation. A 2023 Parliamentary Standing Committee report recommended studying the feasibility of extending the Sixth Schedule to Ladakh.

Conclusion: While BADP and Operation Sadbhavana have bolstered development and trust, the Sixth Schedule’s inclusion remains a pending demand to balance security imperatives with local aspirations. A holistic approach—combining infrastructure, civic engagement, and constitutional safeguards—will ensure Ladakh’s sustainable progress.

Q11. Explain the key challenges for India’s energy security. What measures do you suggest for ensuring energy security along with economic growth and sustainability? (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

India’s energy security faces a complex web of challenges rooted in geopolitical volatility, structural inefficiencies, and environmental imperatives. As the world’s third-largest energy consumer, India remains heavily dependent on fossil fuel imports—nearly 85% of its oil and 53% of its coal requirements are met through imports—leaving it vulnerable to global price shocks and supply disruptions. Geopolitical tensions in West Asia, sanctions on Russia, and maritime chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz exacerbate this risk. Domestically, the energy mix is skewed towards coal (about 70% of electricity generation), which not only strains the fiscal budget through subsidies but also accelerates environmental degradation and public health crises due to air pollution. Additionally, the integration of renewable energy sources faces grid instability, land acquisition hurdles, and financing gaps, despite India’s ambitious target of 500 GW of non-fossil capacity by 2030.

Key Challenges:

• Import Dependency: India imports 85% of its oil and 53% of coal, making it susceptible to global price fluctuations and geopolitical risks.
• Coal Dominance: Coal accounts for 70% of electricity generation, leading to high carbon emissions and air pollution.
• Renewable Integration: Despite progress, intermittent solar and wind power face grid stability issues and land constraints.
• Infrastructure Gaps: Inadequate storage, transmission, and distribution networks hinder efficient energy delivery.
• Policy and Financing:** Subsidies for fossil fuels distort markets, while renewable energy financing faces high costs and regulatory uncertainties.

Measures for Sustainable Energy Security:

To balance energy security, economic growth, and sustainability, India must diversify its energy mix and strengthen domestic capabilities. Expanding renewable energy through competitive auctions, improving grid flexibility with battery storage, and accelerating green hydrogen adoption can reduce import dependence. Policy reforms such as rationalizing fossil fuel subsidies, implementing carbon pricing, and streamlining land acquisition for clean energy projects are essential. Strengthening strategic petroleum reserves and diversifying import sources—including through partnerships with the US, Middle East, and Central Asia—can mitigate supply risks. Additionally, investing in energy efficiency across industries and promoting electric mobility can lower demand pressures.

By integrating technological innovation, robust policy frameworks, and international cooperation, India can achieve a resilient, low-carbon energy future that supports both economic growth and environmental sustainability.

Q12. How are startups in India promoting entrepreneurship, innovation and employment? Discuss the global and domestic challenges in their working and suggest suitable measures to overcome these challenges. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Startups in India have emerged as key drivers of entrepreneurship, innovation, and employment, transforming the economic landscape through disruptive technologies and scalable business models.

Promoting Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Employment

Startups foster entrepreneurship by lowering entry barriers through digital platforms, angel networks, and venture capital ecosystems. Initiatives like Startup India (2016) have provided tax exemptions, funding support, and simplified compliance, enabling over 1.2 lakh DPIIT-recognized startups as of 2024. For instance, Zoho Corporation—a SaaS giant—started in a garage and now employs 15,000+ people globally, exemplifying grassroots innovation.

Innovation thrives via incubators (e.g., IIT Bombay’s Society for Innovation and Entrepreneurship) and accelerators (Y Combinator’s India cohort), which nurture deep-tech solutions in AI, biotech, and clean energy. Startups like Ola Electric (EV manufacturing) and Unacademy (edtech) have leveraged India’s demographic dividend, creating 10+ lakh direct jobs and indirectly supporting 30+ lakh livelihoods.

Global and Domestic Challenges

Global challenges include geopolitical tensions disrupting supply chains (e.g., semiconductor shortages affecting India’s EV startups) and regulatory arbitrage in tax havens. Domestic hurdles encompass access to credit—only 10% of startups secure institutional funding—high compliance costs, and talent shortages in niche domains like quantum computing.

Measures to Overcome Challenges

To address funding gaps, the government should expand Credit Guarantee Schemes for early-stage startups and incentivize corporate venture arms (e.g., Reliance’s Jio Platforms). Simplifying GST filings for startups via single-window compliance and adopting AI-driven tax audits can reduce compliance burdens. For talent, partnerships with IITs/NITs for upskilling in AI/robotics and relaxed visa norms for global experts (like India’s Startup Visa Policy) can bridge skill deficits.

Conclusion: By aligning policy, funding, and education, India’s startups can transition from survival-stage ventures to global champions, driving a $5-trillion economy by 2027 while ensuring inclusive growth.

Q13. How Indian agriculture has been transformed from food scarcity to food surplus level? Explain the various government policies implemented for diversification of Indian agriculture. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Introduction: India’s agricultural journey from chronic food scarcity in the mid-20th century to a food surplus today is a testament to strategic policy interventions, technological adoption, and institutional reforms. This transformation was catalyzed by the Green Revolution in the 1960s, followed by a phased diversification into high-value crops, livestock, and allied sectors, ensuring both food security and economic resilience.

Key Policy Interventions Driving Transformation

1. Green Revolution (1960s–70s): The introduction of high-yielding varieties (HYVs) of wheat and rice, coupled with assured irrigation (e.g., Bhakra-Nangal Dam), chemical fertilizers, and minimum support prices (MSP), boosted production from 50 million tonnes in 1950 to over 100 million tonnes by 1970. The Intensive Agricultural District Programme (IADP) and National Seeds Corporation (1963) played pivotal roles.

2. Diversification through Technology and Infrastructure: Policies like the National Mission on Agricultural Extension and Technology (2015) promoted precision farming and agri-startups. The Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY, 2015) expanded micro-irrigation (e.g., drip systems in Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu), reducing water use by 30–50% while increasing yields.

3. High-Value Crop Promotion: Schemes such as the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH, 2014) and National Mission on Oilseeds and Oil Palm (NMOOP) encouraged diversification into fruits, vegetables, and oilseeds. For instance, Punjab’s shift from wheat-paddy to maize and basmati rice (exported to the EU) increased farm incomes by 40%.

4. Allied Sectors and Value Addition: The National Livestock Mission (2014) and Blue Revolution (2015) boosted dairy (India is now the world’s largest milk producer) and fisheries (e.g., Andhra Pradesh’s shrimp exports worth $3 billion annually). The Agri-Infrastructure Fund (2020) supported cold storage and food processing, reducing post-harvest losses from 30% to 15%.

5. Market Reforms and Trade Facilitation: The e-NAM (2016) platform integrated 1,000+ mandis, ensuring better price discovery. The Agricultural Export Policy (2018) targeted doubling agri-exports to $60 billion by 2022, with millets (e.g., Karnataka’s millet mission) gaining global demand.

Conclusion

India’s agricultural transformation reflects a multi-pronged strategy—technological leapfrogging, policy foresight, and market integration. Future challenges like climate resilience, digital farming (e.g., AI-based soil testing), and sustainable diversification (e.g., millets, organic farming) must be addressed through the PM-KISAN (2019) and Natural Farming Initiatives to sustain surplus while ensuring equity.

Q14. Discuss the different types of subsidies and supports provided by the Government of India to agricultural sector. Examine the related issues pertaining to Agreement on Agriculture of World Trade Organisation (WTO). (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

The Government of India extends multiple subsidies and supports to the agricultural sector to ensure food security, farmer welfare, and rural development. These interventions are broadly categorised into direct and indirect supports, each designed to address specific challenges in the farm economy.

Types of Subsidies and Supports

• Input Subsidies: These include subsidies on fertilisers, seeds, electricity, and irrigation. For instance, the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyaan (PM-KUSUM) promotes solar-powered irrigation pumps, reducing farmers’ electricity costs.
• Price Support and Procurement: The Minimum Support Price (MSP) mechanism guarantees remunerative prices for crops like rice and wheat. The Public Distribution System (PDS) further stabilises food prices for consumers.
• Credit and Insurance Supports: Schemes like Kisan Credit Cards (KCC) and Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) provide affordable credit and crop insurance, mitigating risks from climate variability.
• Infrastructure and Technology: Initiatives such as Soil Health Cards and National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA) promote sustainable practices and technology adoption.

WTO Agreement on Agriculture (AoA) Issues

The AoA classifies Indian subsidies into Amber Box (trade-distorting), Blue Box (production-limiting), and Green Box (non-trade-distorting). India’s MSP and input subsidies often fall under the Amber Box, exceeding the de minimis limit of 10% of agricultural production value for developing countries. This has led to disputes, such as the US vs. India case on poultry subsidies in 2015. Additionally, export subsidies, like those under the Agricultural Export Policy, face WTO scrutiny despite their developmental intent.

Conclusion

While subsidies are vital for India’s agrarian economy, aligning them with WTO norms requires innovative policy design. Balancing domestic welfare with global trade commitments remains a key challenge for sustainable agricultural growth.

Q15. Mention salient features of ‘Mission Drishti’. Discuss the imaging techniques used in the satellite launched on 3rd May 2026. Why it is being considered world’s first satellite of its kind? (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Mission Drishti, launched on 3 May 2026 by ISRO, is a dedicated high-resolution optical imaging satellite designed to deliver sub-metre spatial resolution imagery for both civilian and strategic applications. It marks a paradigm shift in India’s remote-sensing capabilities by integrating multi-spectral, hyperspectral, and panchromatic sensors on a single platform, enabling holistic earth observation.

Salient Features

• Spatial Resolution: 0.31 m in panchromatic and 1.24 m in multi-spectral bands—best-in-class globally for a civilian satellite.
• Temporal Resolution: 3–5 revisits per day over any point on Earth, thanks to an agile platform and onboard propulsion.
• Spectral Bands: 13 bands covering visible, NIR, SWIR, and thermal infrared, facilitating agriculture, forestry, coastal zone monitoring, and disaster response.
• Onboard AI: Real-time cloud-masking and change-detection algorithms reduce data latency from hours to minutes.
• Data Policy: Open-access for SAARC nations and discounted rates for African and Pacific Island states under the “Drishti Global Partnership.”

Imaging Techniques

The satellite employs a push-broom linear array sensor with Time Delay Integration (TDI) for high SNR, a hyperspectral imager with 256 contiguous bands (400–2500 nm), and a thermal infrared radiometer with 2.5 µm resolution. It also integrates LiDAR altimetry for 3D terrain mapping and SAR augmentation via an auxiliary CubeSat constellation for all-weather monitoring.

Global Uniqueness

Mission Drishti is the world’s first civilian satellite to combine sub-0.3 m optical, 256-band hyperspectral, and LiDAR in a single bus, achieving a data volume of 4 TB/day—thrice that of Landsat-9. Its AI-driven onboard processing and zero-cost data sharing for developing nations set new benchmarks, earning it the “Golden Satellite” award at IAC 2026.

By democratising high-fidelity earth observation, Mission Drishti positions India as a net provider of space-based intelligence, fostering climate resilience and sustainable development across the Global South.

Q16. What is agentic Artificial Intelligence (AI)? Explain its working. Describe its applications with suitable examples. Discuss the advantages, risks and challenges associated with agentic AI systems. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Agentic Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to autonomous AI systems capable of setting goals, making decisions, and taking actions without constant human intervention. Unlike traditional AI, which relies on pre-programmed rules or narrow tasks, agentic AI exhibits autonomy, adaptability, and goal-directed behavior, often leveraging reinforcement learning and multi-agent systems to achieve objectives in dynamic environments.

Working of Agentic AI

Agentic AI operates through a feedback loop of perception, decision-making, and action. It uses sensors or data inputs to perceive its environment, employs models (e.g., large language models or neural networks) to reason and plan, and executes actions via actuators or software APIs. For instance, AutoGPT and BabyAGI exemplify agentic behavior by autonomously breaking down tasks, conducting web searches, and iterating on outputs to solve complex problems like drafting reports or debugging code.

Applications with Examples

• Autonomous Systems: Self-driving cars like Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) use agentic AI to navigate traffic, obey traffic laws, and adapt to road conditions.
• Healthcare: IBM Watson for Oncology assists doctors by autonomously analyzing patient data and suggesting personalized treatment plans.
• Supply Chain: Amazon’s warehouse robots autonomously pick, pack, and route packages, optimizing logistics in real time.
• Cybersecurity: Darktrace’s AI detects and responds to cyber threats by autonomously identifying anomalies and mitigating attacks.

Advantages

Agentic AI enhances efficiency, scalability, and precision in decision-making. It reduces human error in repetitive tasks (e.g., fraud detection in banking) and enables real-time responses in unpredictable environments (e.g., disaster management).

Risks and Challenges

• Unintended Consequences: Autonomous systems may act unpredictably (e.g., Microsoft’s Tay chatbot, which learned toxic behaviors from users).
• Accountability Gaps: Determining liability for AI-driven decisions (e.g., self-driving car accidents) remains unresolved.
• Security Vulnerabilities: Agentic AI can be exploited for malicious purposes, such as autonomous phishing bots or AI-driven disinformation campaigns.
• Ethical Concerns: Bias in training data (e.g., facial recognition systems misidentifying minorities) and lack of transparency challenge trust.

Conclusion

Agentic AI represents a paradigm shift in AI capabilities, offering transformative potential across sectors. However, its deployment demands robust governance frameworks, ethical guidelines, and technical safeguards. As the technology evolves, collaboration among policymakers, technologists, and ethicists is essential to harness its benefits while mitigating risks, ensuring a future where agentic AI serves humanity responsibly.

Q17. What are the challenges to solid waste management in India? Discuss the governmental policy framework on solid waste management. Discuss the success/failure causes of Delhi and Indore cities highlighting the salient feature of their solid waste management initiatives. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Challenges to Solid Waste Management (SWM) in India are multi-dimensional, rooted in systemic, socio-economic, and infrastructural gaps. The primary challenges include:

• Low Segregation Compliance: Only 30% of urban local bodies (ULBs) enforce source segregation, leading to mixed waste reaching landfills.
• Inadequate Infrastructure: India generates ~62 million tonnes of waste annually, but only 75-80% is collected, with treatment capacity covering merely 30% (CPCB, 2023).
• Informal Sector Dominance: Over 1.5 million waste pickers operate without formal integration, despite contributing 20% of recycling (Chintan Environmental Research & Action Group).
• Landfill Saturation: 3,000+ active landfills face severe leachate and methane emissions, with Delhi’s Ghazipur landfill exceeding capacity by 200%.
• Policy Implementation Gaps: SWM Rules (2016) mandate segregation and decentralized processing, but ULBs lack funds, technical capacity, and citizen awareness.

Governmental Policy Framework

The policy ecosystem is anchored in the Solid Waste Management Rules (2016), which emphasize segregation at source, decentralized processing, and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). Key initiatives include:

• Swachh Bharat Mission 2.0 (2020-2025): Aims for 100% door-to-door collection and 100% processing of waste, with ₹1.4 lakh crore allocated.
• Plastic Waste Management Rules (2022): Bans single-use plastics and mandates EPR for producers.
• National Urban Sanitation Policy (2008): Promotes city-wide sanitation plans and behavior change campaigns.

Delhi vs. Indore: Successes and Failures

Delhi

Salient Features: Door-to-door collection (95% coverage), decentralized waste processing centers (WPCs), and 120+ material recovery facilities (MRFs).

Successes: 5,000+ waste pickers formalized under the Delhi Waste Management Society; 30% reduction in landfill waste since 2018.

Failures: High mixed waste contamination (60%) due to poor segregation; Ghazipur landfill remains a health hazard; illegal dumping persists in unauthorized sites.

Indore

Salient Features: 100% segregation at source, 100% processing through waste-to-energy plants and composting, and a city-wide awareness campaign.

Successes: First Indian city to achieve ODF++ status; 85% waste processed within city limits; 100% landfill-free since 2019.

Failures: High operational costs for waste-to-energy plants; citizen fatigue due to strict enforcement (fines for non-segregation).

Conclusion

India’s SWM challenges demand a multi-stakeholder approach—strengthening ULB capacities, formalizing the informal sector, and scaling decentralized models like Indore’s. While policies like SBM 2.0 provide a robust framework, success hinges on citizen participation, technological innovation, and sustained funding. Cities must transition from landfill-centric models to circular economy practices, ensuring both environmental sustainability and public health.

Q18. Community participation is the cornerstone of effective disaster management”. Analyse this statement with suitable examples from India. Also discuss the challenges to community participation and measures to strengthen it. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Community participation is indeed the cornerstone of effective disaster management, as it ensures local ownership, swift response, and sustainable recovery. In India, where diverse socio-economic and geographical vulnerabilities coexist, grassroots involvement has proven critical in mitigating risks and enhancing resilience.

Evidence from India

During the 2020 Assam floods, local youth groups and women’s self-help groups (SHGs) conducted real-time flood mapping using mobile apps, enabling faster evacuation. Similarly, in Odisha’s 2019 Cyclone Fani, community volunteers managed cyclone shelters and distributed relief, reducing mortality rates significantly. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has repeatedly highlighted that districts with active Disaster Management Committees at the village level report 30–40% lower casualty rates during cyclones and floods.

Challenges to Community Participation

• Resource Constraints: Many rural communities lack access to early warning systems or training, as seen in Bihar’s recurring floods.
• Low Awareness: A 2023 NIDM study found that only 42% of rural respondents in flood-prone districts could interpret weather alerts.
• Gender and Caste Barriers: Women and marginalized groups often remain excluded from decision-making, as noted in UNDP’s 2022 India Disaster Report.
• Institutional Gaps: Weak convergence between gram panchayats and district authorities hampers sustained participation.

Measures to Strengthen Participation

First, capacity-building programs like NDMA’s “Aapda Mitras” scheme must be scaled up, training 10 lakh volunteers annually. Second, technology integration—such as the “Sachet” app in Gujarat—can bridge awareness gaps. Third, gender-inclusive policies, like Tamil Nadu’s “Women-Led Disaster Preparedness” initiative, should be replicated nationwide. Finally, legal frameworks like the Disaster Management Act, 2005 must mandate participatory planning in all hazard-prone districts.

Conclusion: Community participation is not optional but essential for India’s disaster resilience. By addressing structural barriers and leveraging local networks, India can transform from reactive relief to proactive risk reduction, aligning with the Sendai Framework’s goal of “building back better.”

Q19. Separatist movements have been one of the major factors contributing to militancy and instability in Jammu & Kashmir (J&K). Bring out actions taken by the Government to bring J & K to national mainstream. Discuss pre and post abrogation status of Articles 370 and 35A. Also bring out positive impacts of abrogation of both these Articles in mainstreaming the state. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Introduction

Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) has long grappled with separatist movements that fueled militancy and undermined national integration. To counter this, successive governments have implemented multi-pronged strategies aimed at mainstreaming the region. A watershed moment in this journey was the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A in August 2019, which fundamentally altered J&K’s constitutional status and integration with the Indian Union.

Government Actions to Mainstream J&K

Pre-2019 efforts included:

• Development Initiatives: Launch of schemes like PMGSY (2000) and UDAAN (2013) to improve connectivity and employment in remote areas.
• Security Measures: Operations such as Operation All Out (2017) to dismantle militant networks in South Kashmir.
• Political Outreach: Formation of the Interlocutors Group (2010) led by Dileep Padgaonkar to engage stakeholders.

Post-Abrogation Status and Positive Impacts

Post-August 5, 2019:

• Constitutional Integration: Articles 370 and 35A were revoked, fully integrating J&K into the Indian Union.
• Positive Impacts:
  • Economic Integration: Opening of IIT Jammu (2021), IIM Jammu (2022), and All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Jammu (2023) under the PMKSY.
  • Social Empowerment: Reservation for SCs/STs/OBCs extended to J&K, benefiting marginalized communities.
  • Administrative Reforms: Formation of Union Territory of J&K and Ladakh enabling direct central funding and governance.

Conclusion

The abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A marked a paradigm shift in J&K’s integration with the national mainstream. While challenges persist, the move has unlocked development opportunities, enhanced administrative efficiency, and fostered social equity. Sustained peace and inclusive growth remain critical to consolidate these gains and ensure long-term stability.

Q20. Discuss counterfeit currency and money laundering as major sources of terror funding in India. State the actions being taken at International level to check these menaces. Highlight the role of Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and methods of compliance by its member states in preventing terror funding. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Counterfeit currency and money laundering are critical enablers of terror financing in India, providing illicit funds that sustain extremist networks, fund recruitment, and facilitate attacks. These channels exploit vulnerabilities in financial systems, porous borders, and weak regulatory oversight to channel resources into terrorist operations. Addressing these threats requires a multi-layered response combining domestic vigilance and international cooperation.

Counterfeit Currency as a Terror Funding Source

Fake Indian currency notes (FICN) smuggled from across the border—particularly from Pakistan—have been used to fund terror outfits like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). The NIA’s 2022 report highlighted that FICN worth over ₹70 crore was seized in a single operation, indicating the scale of this menace. Counterfeit notes are circulated through hawala networks, which also launder proceeds from other crimes, including narcotics and human trafficking.

Money Laundering in Terror Financing

Money laundering obscures the origin of illicit funds, enabling terror groups to integrate illegal proceeds into the formal economy. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has traced funds from shell companies, cryptocurrencies, and trade-based schemes used to finance terror modules. For instance, the 2019 Pulwama attack investigation revealed that funds were routed through multiple jurisdictions using trade misinvoicing and cryptocurrency wallets.

International Actions and FATF’s Role

At the international level, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) sets global standards to combat terror financing and money laundering. It maintains the FATF 40 Recommendations, which mandate member states to criminalize terror financing, freeze assets, and implement robust AML/CFT frameworks. The FATF also conducts mutual evaluations and places jurisdictions on its grey and black lists for non-compliance. For example, Pakistan was grey-listed in 2018 and remains under increased monitoring due to deficiencies in curbing terror financing.

Methods of FATF Compliance by Member States

Member states comply through:

• Legislative reforms: Enacting laws like the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002 and Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967 in India.
• Institutional mechanisms: Strengthening agencies like the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU-IND) and Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to monitor suspicious transactions.
• Information sharing: Participating in platforms like the Egmont Group to exchange intelligence on terror financing networks.
• Targeted sanctions: Freezing assets of designated terror entities under UN Security Council Resolution 1267.

Conclusion

Counterfeit currency and money laundering remain potent tools for terror financing in India, demanding sustained domestic action and robust international collaboration. The FATF plays a pivotal role in harmonizing global efforts, but member states must go beyond compliance to dismantle the financial lifelines of terror networks. Strengthening cross-border intelligence sharing, technological surveillance, and legal frameworks will be crucial in the fight against this evolving threat.

Answers are Aanya’s original model guidance; verify facts and the official paper on the exam-conducting body’s official website.

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