OPSC Main Exam 2022 GS Paper II Solution

Attempt all Questions | 3 Hours | 300 Marks

Questions (150 words each)

1. Justify India’s neutrality over the Ukraine invasion by Soviet Russia.
2. Examine the Nuclear Energy Policy of India.
3. Discuss the structure and functions of World Trade Organisation (WTO). What is the dispute settlement mechanism under WTO?
4. Justify the replacement of the erstwhile Planning Commission by the NITI Aayog by the Government of India. To what extent has the NITI Aayog been successful?
5. Examine the consequences of the Russia-Ukraine war on the worldwide economy.
6. Discuss the conventional and advisory jurisdictions of the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
7. What do you mean by Stealth Technology? How can it support our defense system?
8. With a significant description of nanofluid, mention why it is used as a heat exchanger for new technologies to enhance heat transfer.
9. In a sample study about the coffee habits in two towns, the following data are observed:
   • Town A: 55% people are males, 40% are coffee drinkers and 28% are male coffee drinkers.
   • Town B: 65% people are males, 45% are coffee drinkers and 35% are male coffee drinkers. Tabulate the above observations.
10. Based on a bar graph showing the number of males and females in different company posts (Executive, Sales Officer, Director), answer the following (1 mark × 10 = 10): (a) What is the name of this diagram? (b) In which post are females more than males? (c) Which posts have more than six males working? (d) In which post are females more than 50% of the corresponding males? (e) What is the number of female officers? (f) How many sales officers are there in all? (g) What is the number of directors in the company? (h) What is the Y-axis title of the graph? (i) In which post are males more than double that of females? (j) Exactly 10 number of employees is in which post and for which gender?

Questions (250 words each):

11. Discuss the challenges faced by India to its territorial integrity.
12. Explain the opportunities before India as leader of G-20.
13. Give a brief outline of Odisha’s macroeconomic performance in terms of growth of GSDP in the post-reform period. Comment on the distributional aspect of the growth across regions.
14. What is a Free Trade Agreement (FTA)? How many FTAs is India part of and who are the partners? Discuss the major issues relating to India’s FTAs.
15. Highlight the Indo-US relations in the changing geo-political scenario. Discuss the nuances between the relations of the two countries.
16. How does India see its place in the economic space of rising natural resource-rich Africa? Discuss.
17. How does biogas as an energy source alleviate two major environmental problems simultaneously? Write a short note describing the working of a biogas plant, mentioning the steps followed for generation of electricity.
18. With unique inheritance characteristics and the general working of a laser, enumerate its application in communication technology for the present digital era.
19. Consider the data set provided. Construct a frequency table, find how many observations are less than 50, and draw a frequency polygon.
20. Using the given mortality table, calculate the probabilities for a person aged 25 regarding survival, death before age 45 or 75, and other related measures.

OPSC Main Exam 2022 GS Paper II Solution

1. Justify India’s neutrality over the Ukraine invasion by Russia.

Ans: India’s neutral stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict reflects a strategic balance in its foreign policy, rooted in non-alignment, national interests, and geopolitical pragmatism. By abstaining from UN resolutions condemning Russia, India maintains a delicate equilibrium between its historical ties with Russia and its growing partnerships with Western nations.

Key reasons for India’s neutrality include:

• Historical Relations with Russia: Russia has been a long-standing ally, supplying over 60% of India’s defense equipment and supporting India in forums like the UN Security Council.

• Energy Security: India relies on Russian oil and gas imports, which surged post-2022 to meet energy demands at competitive prices, ensuring economic stability.

• Geopolitical Strategy: Neutrality allows India to engage with both Western and Russian blocs, preserving strategic autonomy in a polarized world.

• Diplomatic Leverage: By not aligning with either side, India positions itself as a mediator, advocating for peace through dialogue, as seen in its calls for ceasefire at global forums.

India’s stance avoids antagonizing Russia while maintaining ties with Ukraine and Western partners. This approach ensures strategic flexibility, protects economic interests, and upholds India’s role as a voice for the Global South, prioritizing peace and diplomacy over confrontation.

2. Examine the Nuclear Energy Policy of India.

Ans: India’s Nuclear Energy Policy aims to achieve energy security, reduce carbon emissions, and support sustainable development through a robust nuclear power framework. Governed by the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), the policy emphasizes indigenous technology, safety, and international cooperation.

Key features of the policy include:

• Three-Stage Nuclear Program:

  • Stage 1: Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) using natural uranium.

  • Stage 2: Fast Breeder Reactors (FBRs) utilizing plutonium from Stage 1.

  • Stage 3: Thorium-based reactors leveraging India’s vast thorium reserves.

• Capacity Expansion: India targets 22,480 MW by 2032, with 22 operational reactors currently contributing ~3% of total electricity.

• International Cooperation: Agreements with the US, France, and Russia for technology transfer and fuel supply post-NSG waiver in 2008.

• Safety Standards: Post-Fukushima, India strengthened safety protocols under the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB).

The policy faces challenges like high capital costs, public opposition due to safety concerns, and dependence on imported uranium. However, nuclear energy remains critical for India’s climate goals, reducing reliance on fossil fuels, and ensuring energy security. Continued investment in thorium technology and safety measures will enhance its sustainability and public acceptance.

3. Discuss the structure and functions of World Trade Organisation (WTO). What is the dispute settlement mechanism under WTO?

Ans: The World Trade Organization (WTO), established in 1995, is a global body regulating international trade, promoting free trade, and resolving trade disputes. Headquartered in Geneva, it has 164 member countries and operates on principles of non-discrimination, transparency, and predictability.

Structure:

• Ministerial Conference: The highest decision-making body, meeting biennially.

• General Council: Oversees daily operations, acting as Dispute Settlement Body (DSB) and Trade Policy Review Body.

• Councils and Committees: Handle specific areas like trade in goods, services, and intellectual property (TRIPS).

• Secretariat: Led by the Director-General, supports administrative functions.

Functions:

• Administers trade agreements like GATT, GATS, and TRIPS.

• Facilitates trade negotiations and policy reviews.

• Provides technical assistance to developing nations.

• Monitors trade policies to ensure compliance.

Dispute Settlement Mechanism:

The WTO’s Dispute Settlement Body (DSB) resolves trade disputes through a structured process:

• Consultation: Parties attempt to resolve disputes bilaterally within 60 days.

• Panel Establishment: If unresolved, a panel of experts examines the case and submits a report.

• Appellate Review: Parties can appeal to the Appellate Body for legal review.

• Implementation: The losing party must comply or face retaliatory measures.

Despite its effectiveness, the mechanism faces challenges due to the US blocking Appellate Body appointments, stalling dispute resolutions. The WTO remains vital for global trade stability, fostering fair and predictable trade practices.

4. Justify the replacement of the Planning Commission by NITI Aayog. To what extent has NITI Aayog been successful?

Ans: The replacement of the Planning Commission with NITI Aayog in 2015 marked a shift from centralized planning to a cooperative federalism model, aligning with India’s evolving economic and governance needs. The Planning Commission, established in 1950, was criticized for its top-down approach, rigid five-year plans, and limited state involvement.

Justification for Replacement:

• Decentralized Planning: NITI Aayog promotes state participation, fostering cooperative federalism through consultations with states on policy formulation.

• Flexibility: Unlike rigid five-year plans, NITI Aayog adopts dynamic strategies like the Three-Year Action Agenda and Vision 2030.

• Innovation and Research: It emphasizes think-tank functions, encouraging data-driven policies and innovation.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Engages private sector, academia, and civil society for inclusive policymaking.

Success of NITI Aayog:

• Achievements:

  • Launched initiatives like Atal Innovation Mission and Aspirational Districts Programme, improving local governance and innovation.

  • Promoted Digital India and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) alignment.

  • Enhanced state-level policy coordination through Governing Council meetings.

• Challenges:

  • Lacks financial allocation powers, reducing its influence compared to the Planning Commission.

  • Limited impact on structural reforms in sectors like agriculture and education.

  • Criticism for inadequate state capacity-building.

While NITI Aayog has fostered collaborative governance and innovative policies, its success is partial due to limited authority and uneven implementation. Strengthening its role in resource allocation and state-level execution will enhance its effectiveness.

5. Examine the consequences of Russian-Ukraine war on worldwide economy.

Ans: The Russia-Ukraine war, starting in 2022, has profoundly impacted the global economy, disrupting supply chains, energy markets, and food security, while exacerbating inflation and geopolitical tensions.

Key consequences include:

• Energy Crisis: Russia’s role as a major oil and gas supplier led to skyrocketing energy prices, with Brent crude reaching $130/barrel in 2022, affecting industries and households globally.

• Food Security: Ukraine and Russia, key grain exporters, faced disrupted exports, causing wheat prices to surge by ~30%, impacting food security in Africa and Asia.

• Inflation Surge: Rising energy and food costs fueled global inflation, with rates in the US and EU hitting 8-9% in 2022, eroding purchasing power.

• Supply Chain Disruptions: Sanctions on Russia disrupted supplies of metals, fertilizers, and semiconductors, affecting global manufacturing.

• Economic Slowdown: IMF reported a global GDP growth decline from 6.1% in 2021 to 3.2% in 2022, with developing nations hit hardest.

• Geopolitical Shifts: Strengthened economic blocs like BRICS and accelerated energy transitions in Europe towards renewables.

Developing nations, including India, faced higher import costs but benefited from discounted Russian oil. The war exposed vulnerabilities in global economic interdependence, necessitating diversified supply chains and sustainable energy policies to mitigate future shocks.

6. Discuss the conventional and advisory jurisdictions of the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

Ans: The International Court of Justice (ICJ), the principal judicial organ of the UN, resolves disputes between states and provides legal opinions under its conventional and advisory jurisdictions, upholding international law and global cooperation.

Conventional Jurisdiction:

• Involves legally binding judgments in disputes between states consenting to ICJ’s authority.

• Covers issues like territorial disputes, maritime boundaries, and treaty violations.

• Example: India-Pakistan dispute over Kulbhushan Jadhav (2017), where ICJ ruled on consular access.

• Requires mutual consent via treaties, special agreements, or compulsory jurisdiction clauses.

• Judgments are final, binding, and enforceable, though compliance depends on state cooperation.

Advisory Jurisdiction:

• Provides non-binding legal opinions to UN organs or agencies on questions of international law.

• Initiated by requests from bodies like the UN General Assembly or Security Council.

• Example: Advisory opinion on the legality of Israel’s separation wall (2004).

• Aims to clarify legal principles, guide policy, or resolve controversies without enforcement.

• Open to all UN member states and specialized agencies, enhancing global legal discourse.

Significance:

• Conventional jurisdiction ensures dispute resolution and upholds international law.

• Advisory jurisdiction fosters legal clarity and supports UN objectives.

Challenges include limited enforcement mechanisms and state reluctance to accept jurisdiction. The ICJ remains vital for global justice, promoting peaceful resolution and legal consistency in international relations.

7. What do you mean by Stealth Technology? How can it be a support to our defense system?

Ans: Stealth Technology refers to advanced techniques used to make military assets, such as aircraft, ships, and missiles, less detectable by radar, infrared, sonar, and other detection systems. It enhances defense capabilities by improving survivability and operational effectiveness.

Key Features:

• Radar Cross-Section Reduction: Uses special coatings, angular designs, and radar-absorbent materials to minimize radar reflections.

• Infrared Suppression: Reduces heat signatures through engine cooling systems.

• Electronic Countermeasures: Jams or deceives enemy detection systems.

• Examples: US F-35 Lightning II, India’s indigenous stealth projects like AMCA.

Support to Defense System:

• Enhanced Survivability: Stealth assets evade enemy radar, ensuring mission success in hostile environments.

• Strategic Advantage: Enables surprise attacks and reconnaissance without detection.

• Deterrence: Strengthens national defense by showcasing advanced technological capabilities.

• Force Multiplier: Integrates with modern warfare systems, enhancing air and naval operations.

In India, stealth technology is critical for countering threats from advanced adversaries like China and Pakistan. Projects like the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) and stealth frigates under Project 17A bolster India’s defense. Challenges include high costs and technological complexity. Investing in R&D and international collaborations will enhance India’s strategic defense and regional security.

8. With a significant description of Nano fluid, mention why it is used as heat exchanger for new technologies to enhance heat transfer.

Ans: Nanofluids are engineered colloidal suspensions of nanoparticles (1-100 nm) dispersed in a base fluid like water, oil, or ethylene glycol. These fluids exhibit enhanced thermal conductivity and heat transfer properties compared to conventional fluids, making them vital for advanced technologies.

Characteristics of Nanofluids:

• Composition: Contain nanoparticles (e.g., copper, aluminum oxide) in low concentrations (0.1-5% by volume).

• Thermal Properties: Higher thermal conductivity due to nanoparticle Brownian motion and large surface area.

• Stability: Requires surfactants or ultrasonic agitation to prevent nanoparticle aggregation.

• Applications: Used in electronics cooling, automotive radiators, and renewable energy systems.

Use as Heat Exchanger:

• Enhanced Heat Transfer: Nanofluids increase convective heat transfer coefficients, improving efficiency in heat exchangers.

• Compact Systems: Higher heat transfer allows smaller, lighter heat exchanger designs, critical for aerospace and electronics.

• Energy Efficiency: Reduces energy consumption in cooling systems, supporting sustainability.

• Versatility: Effective in high-temperature applications like nuclear reactors and solar thermal systems.

In new technologies, nanofluids are preferred for their ability to manage high heat fluxes in compact devices, such as microchips and electric vehicle batteries. Challenges include high production costs and stability issues. Continued research into cost-effective synthesis and stable formulations will enhance their role in energy-efficient and high-performance heat transfer systems.

9. In a sample study about the coffee habits in two towns, the following data are observed: Town A: 55% people are males, 40% are coffee drinkers, and 28% are male coffee drinkers.

Ans: To analyze the coffee habits in Town A, we use the given data: 55% are males, 40% are coffee drinkers, and 28% are male coffee drinkers. Assuming a population of 100 for simplicity, we calculate the following:

• Males: 55% = 55 people.

• Coffee Drinkers: 40% = 40 people.

• Male Coffee Drinkers: 28% = 28 people.

Calculations:

• Female Population: 100 – 55 = 45 females.

• Coffee Drinkers Breakdown:

  • Male coffee drinkers = 28.

  • Total coffee drinkers = 40.

  • Female coffee drinkers = 40 – 28 = 12.

• Percentage of Females Drinking Coffee: (12/45) × 100 ≈ 26.67%.

• Percentage of Males Drinking Coffee: (28/55) × 100 ≈ 50.91%.

• Probability a Coffee Drinker is Male: (28/40) × 100 = 70%.

Key Observations:

• 50.91% of males in Town A are coffee drinkers, compared to 26.67% of females.

• 70% of coffee drinkers in Town A are male, indicating a male-dominated coffee-drinking culture.

• Coffee consumption is significant, with 40% of the population drinking coffee.

This analysis highlights gender-based differences in coffee habits, with males showing a higher propensity for coffee consumption in Town A. Further data on Town B would enable comparative insights.

11. Discuss the challenges faced by India to its territorial integrity.

Ans: India’s territorial integrity faces multifaceted challenges due to its diverse geography, historical disputes, and geopolitical dynamics. These challenges threaten national sovereignty and require robust diplomatic and military strategies.

Key challenges include:

• Border Disputes:

  • India-China: Ongoing tensions along the LAC, particularly in Ladakh (e.g., Galwan clash, 2020).

  • India-Pakistan: Disputes over Jammu & Kashmir and Siachen Glacier, compounded by cross-border terrorism.

• Insurgency and Separatism: Internal threats in regions like Northeast India (e.g., NSCN in Nagaland) and Jammu & Kashmir challenge national unity.

• Maritime Security: Piracy, illegal fishing, and Chinese naval presence in the Indian Ocean threaten India’s maritime boundaries.

• Illegal Migration: Influx from Bangladesh into Northeast states creates demographic and security concerns.

• Geopolitical Pressures: Strategic competition with China (e.g., Belt and Road Initiative) and Pakistan’s proxy wars strain India’s territorial stability.

Mitigation Efforts:

• Strengthening border infrastructure via Border Roads Organisation.

• Diplomatic engagements through forums like SCO and QUAD.

• Counter-insurgency operations and development programs in affected regions.

• Enhancing maritime security through Indian Navy and coastal surveillance.

Despite these efforts, unresolved disputes and external influences persist. India must balance diplomacy, military modernization, and regional development to safeguard its territorial integrity and maintain national sovereignty.

12. Explain the opportunities before India as leader of G-20.

Ans: India’s presidency of the G-20 (2023) offered significant opportunities to shape global economic and geopolitical agendas, reinforcing its role as a leader of the Global South. As a platform for the world’s major economies, G-20 leadership allowed India to address pressing global challenges.

Key Opportunities:

• Global Economic Leadership: India advocated for inclusive growth, pushing reforms in global financial institutions like IMF and World Bank to amplify developing nations’ voices.

• Climate Action: Promoted sustainable development through initiatives like the International Solar Alliance and green energy commitments.

• Digital Transformation: Showcased India’s digital infrastructure (e.g., UPI, Aadhaar) to promote global digital inclusion and innovation.

• Geopolitical Influence: Strengthened India’s strategic autonomy by mediating between developed and developing nations, fostering consensus on issues like Ukraine.

• Trade and Investment: Advanced free trade agreements and attracted investments in infrastructure and technology.

• Cultural Diplomacy: Highlighted India’s cultural heritage, boosting tourism and soft power.

India leveraged the G-20 to address food security, health infrastructure, and gender equality, aligning with its Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam philosophy. Challenges included managing divergent interests among members. India’s leadership enhanced its global stature, fostering multilateral cooperation and positioning it as a key player in shaping a resilient global economy.

13. Give a brief outline of Odisha’s macroeconomic performance in terms of growth of GSDP in the post-reform period. Comment on the distributional aspect of the growth across regions.

Ans: Odisha’s macroeconomic performance in the post-reform period (1991 onwards) reflects significant GSDP growth, driven by industrialization, mining, and policy reforms. From a primarily agrarian economy, Odisha transitioned into a resource-rich industrial hub, achieving sustained economic progress.

GSDP Growth:

• Growth Rate: Odisha’s GSDP grew at an average of ~7% annually post-2000, outpacing national averages in several years.

• Sectoral Contribution: Industry (mining, steel, aluminum) contributes ~40% to GSDP, followed by services (~35%) and agriculture (~20%).

• Key Drivers: Investments in ports, infrastructure, and SEZs, alongside policies like the Industrial Policy Resolution (IPR), boosted growth.

• Per Capita Income: Rose from ₹12,000 in 2000 to ~₹1.5 lakh by 2022, reflecting improved living standards.

Distributional Aspects:

• Regional Disparities:

  • Coastal districts (e.g., Cuttack, Puri) benefit from better infrastructure, ports, and tourism, driving higher growth.

  • Inland and tribal regions (e.g., Koraput, Kalahandi) lag due to poor connectivity, limited industrialization, and reliance on subsistence agriculture.

• Inequity Challenges: Mining-led growth concentrates wealth in industrial hubs, leaving tribal areas underdeveloped.

• Government Initiatives: Programs like KBK Yojana and Aspirational Districts Programme aim to address regional imbalances through targeted development.

While Odisha’s GSDP growth is commendable, equitable distribution remains a challenge. Strengthening infrastructure, education, and skill development in backward regions will ensure inclusive growth and reduce regional disparities.

14. What is a Free Trade Agreement (FTA)? How many FTAs is India part of, and who are the partners? Discuss the major issues relating to India’s FTAs.

Ans: A Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is a pact between countries to reduce or eliminate trade barriers, such as tariffs and quotas, to facilitate trade and investment. FTAs aim to enhance economic integration, boost exports, and promote mutual economic growth.

India’s FTAs:

• India is part of 13 FTAs (as of 2022), including:

  • Bilateral: Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, UAE, Mauritius, Australia.

  • Regional: SAFTA (South Asia), ASEAN-India FTA, India-Mercosur PTA.

• Recent agreements include the India-UAE CEPA (2022) and India-Australia ECTA (2022).

Major Issues:

• Trade Deficits: FTAs with ASEAN, Japan, and South Korea have widened India’s trade deficit due to higher imports than exports.

• Non-Tariff Barriers: Standards, certifications, and regulations in partner countries restrict Indian exports, particularly in agriculture and pharmaceuticals.

• Domestic Industry Concerns: Sectors like textiles and electronics face competition from cheaper imports, impacting MSMEs.

• Limited Market Access: Indian goods face restricted access in developed markets due to stringent quality norms.

• Negotiation Challenges: Balancing domestic interests with global commitments delays agreements (e.g., India-EU FTA).

Despite these challenges, FTAs enhance India’s global trade integration and access to technology. Addressing issues through robust negotiations, protecting sensitive sectors, and improving export competitiveness will maximize FTA benefits.

15. Highlight the Indo-US relations in the changing geo-political scenario. Discuss the nuances between the relation of two countries.

Ans: Indo-US relations have evolved into a strategic partnership, driven by shared democratic values, economic interests, and geopolitical alignment, particularly in countering China’s influence in the Indo-Pacific.

Key Aspects:

• Defense Cooperation: Agreements like LEMOA and COMCASA facilitate military interoperability. Joint exercises (e.g., Malabar) strengthen ties.

• Economic Ties: Bilateral trade reached $120 billion in 2022, with the US as India’s largest trading partner.

• Technology Collaboration: Initiatives like iCET promote cooperation in AI, semiconductors, and space technology.

• Climate and Energy: US supports India’s renewable energy goals through the Partnership for Green Growth.

Nuances:

• Convergence: Shared concerns over China’s assertiveness, terrorism, and Indo-Pacific stability drive cooperation (e.g., QUAD).

• Divergence:

  • India’s neutrality in the Russia-Ukraine war contrasts with US sanctions on Russia.

  • Trade disputes over tariffs and intellectual property rights persist.

  • India’s strategic autonomy and non-alignment occasionally conflict with US expectations of alignment.

Changing Geopolitical Scenario:

• The rise of China and multipolar world order strengthen Indo-US alignment.

• India’s growing global influence enhances its role as a counterbalance to authoritarian regimes.

Despite occasional frictions, Indo-US relations are pivotal for global stability and mutual prosperity. Balancing autonomy with strategic convergence will define the partnership’s future.

16. How does India see its place in the economic space of rising natural resource-rich Africa? Discuss.

Ans: India views Africa as a strategic partner in its economic and geopolitical ambitions, leveraging historical ties, resource potential, and mutual development goals to foster a South-South cooperation model.

India’s Perspective:

• Resource Access: Africa’s vast resources (oil, minerals, uranium) support India’s energy and industrial needs. E.g., ONGC Videsh invests in Nigerian and Sudanese oilfields.

• Market Opportunities: Africa’s growing population and urbanization offer markets for Indian goods like pharmaceuticals, automobiles, and IT services.

• Development Partnership: India’s Lines of Credit ($12 billion+ extended) and capacity-building programs (e.g., ITEC) promote sustainable growth.

• Geopolitical Influence: Strengthening ties counters China’s dominance in Africa, enhancing India’s global stature.

Key Initiatives:

• India-Africa Forum Summit: Facilitates trade, investment, and cultural ties.

• Trade Growth: Bilateral trade reached $90 billion in 2022, with key partners like Nigeria, South Africa, and Kenya.

• Technology Transfer: India supports Africa’s digital and agricultural sectors through initiatives like e-VidyaBharati.

Challenges:

• Competition with China’s larger investments (e.g., Belt and Road Initiative).

• Infrastructure and logistical constraints in Africa.

• Political instability in some African nations.

India’s approach emphasizes mutual benefit, sustainability, and soft power, positioning it as a trusted partner in Africa’s economic rise, aligning with its Global South leadership goals.

17. How does biogas energy source alleviate two major environmental problems simultaneously? With a short note, describe the working of a biogas plant mentioning various steps followed for generation of electricity.

Ans: Biogas, a renewable energy source produced from organic waste, addresses two major environmental problems: waste management and greenhouse gas emissions.

Environmental Benefits:

• Waste Management: Biogas plants convert organic waste (e.g., agricultural residue, animal dung, food waste) into energy, reducing landfill burden and pollution from untreated waste.

• Greenhouse Gas Reduction: By capturing methane (a potent greenhouse gas) during decomposition, biogas plants prevent its release into the atmosphere, mitigating climate change.

Working of a Biogas Plant:

• Feedstock Collection: Organic materials like cow dung, crop residue, or food waste are collected and mixed with water to form a slurry.

• Anaerobic Digestion: The slurry is fed into a sealed digester, where microbes break down organic matter in the absence of oxygen, producing biogas (60% methane, 40% CO2).

• Biogas Collection: Biogas is stored in a gas holder for use.

• Electricity Generation: Biogas is burned in a gas engine or turbine to drive a generator, producing electricity.

• Byproduct Utilization: Digestate (residual slurry) is used as organic fertilizer, enhancing soil health.

In India, biogas plants support rural electrification and sustainable agriculture. Scaling up through schemes like GOBAR-Dhan can enhance energy security and environmental sustainability, though challenges like high initial costs and maintenance need addressing.

18. With unique inheritance characteristics and general working of a laser, enumerate its application in communication technology for the present digital era.

Ans: A laser (Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation) produces a coherent, monochromatic, and highly directional light beam, making it pivotal in modern communication technology.

Characteristics and Working:

• Coherence: Laser light waves are in phase, enabling precise data transmission.

• Monochromaticity: Single wavelength ensures minimal signal distortion.

• Directionality: Focused beam allows long-distance transmission with low loss.

• Working: Electrons in a gain medium (e.g., gas, semiconductor) are excited, releasing photons via stimulated emission, amplified in a resonant cavity to produce a laser beam.

Applications in Communication:

• Fiber Optics: Lasers transmit data through optical fibers, enabling high-speed internet and telecommunication networks (e.g., 5G backbone).

• Satellite Communication: Lasers facilitate high-bandwidth data transfer between satellites and ground stations.

• Data Centers: Laser-based optical interconnects enhance data transfer speeds within servers.

• Li-Fi Technology: Uses laser light for wireless data transmission, offering faster alternatives to Wi-Fi.

• Undersea Cables: Lasers power transoceanic communication cables, ensuring global connectivity.

Lasers’ high bandwidth and low signal loss make them indispensable in the digital era, supporting smart cities, cloud computing, and IoT. Challenges include high costs and infrastructure requirements. Continued advancements in laser technology will drive future communication innovations.

19. Consider the data provided below. Construct the frequency table for the data and find the number of observations in the dataset which is less than 50. Also, draw the frequency polygon of the frequency table (use a graph paper).

Ans: Given dataset: 76, 96, 26, 97, 88, 97, 27, 15, 29, 66, 43, 89, 56, 20, 80, 94, 86, 24, 85, 94, 20, 29, 71, 33, 84, 15, 25, 52, 46, 43, 29, 93, 66, 36, 83, 98, 27, 94, 15, 35, 23, 89, 70, 57, 75, 73, 57, 93, 96, 85, 25, 19, 27, 96, 76, 30, 89, 84, 28, 57, 93.

Frequency Table:

Class Interval	Frequency
10–19	4
20–29	12
30–39	3
40–49	2
50–59	4
60–69	3
70–79	6
80–89	12
90–99	13

Observations Less Than 50:

• Sum frequencies of classes 10–19, 20–29, 30–39, and 40–49: 4 + 12 + 3 + 2 = 21 observations.

Frequency Polygon (Description for Graph Paper):

• X-Axis: Class midpoints (14.5, 24.5, 34.5, 44.5, 54.5, 64.5, 74.5, 84.5, 94.5).

• Y-Axis: Frequency (0 to 14, increment of 2).

• Plot points: (14.5, 4), (24.5, 12), (34.5, 3), (44.5, 2), (54.5, 4), (64.5, 3), (74.5, 6), (84.5, 12), (94.5, 13).

• Connect points with straight lines to form the polygon.

• Start and end at Y=0 for adjacent midpoints (4.5 and 104.5).

This analysis shows 21 observations below 50, with the frequency polygon visually representing data distribution, peaking in the 20–29 and 90–99 ranges.

20. In calculating the premium payable for life insurance policies, the insurance company uses the following mortality table: Age in years (0: 1000, 25: 958, 45: 905, 65: 608, 75: 550).

Ans: Using the mortality table, we calculate the probabilities for the given queries:

• (a) Attain the age of 45 years:

  • Probability = (Persons surviving at 45) / (Persons at 0) = 905/1000 = 0.905.

• (b) Not attain the age of 75 years:

  • Probability = 1 – (Persons surviving at 75) / (Persons at 0) = 1 – 550/1000 = 0.45.

• (c) Die before completion of 45 years:

  • Probability = (Persons at 0 – Persons at 45) / (Persons at 0) = (1000 – 905) / 1000 = 0.095.

• (d) Live more than 65 years:

  • Probability = (Persons surviving at 75) / (Persons at 0) = 550/1000 = 0.55.

• (e) Shall die between 65 to 75 years:

  • Probability = (Persons at 65 – Persons at 75) / (Persons at 0) = (608 – 550) / 1000 = 0.058.

Summary:

• Attain age 45: 90.5%.

• Not attain age 75: 45%.

• Die before 45: 9.5%.

• Live beyond 65: 55%.

• Die between 65–75: 5.8%.

These probabilities guide insurance premium calculations, balancing risk and coverage.

Read: OPSC Notes