OPSC Main Exam 2020 GS Paper I Solution

Download Question Paper of OPSC Main Exam 2020 GS Paper I

1. Do you consider that the impact of medieval mystic saints and Sufi poets were rather ephemeral on the deep-seated structure of Indian Society?

Ans: The impact of medieval mystic saints and Sufi poets on Indian society was significant but not entirely ephemeral, as they influenced cultural and social spheres, though their transformative effect on deep-seated structures was limited. Saints like Kabir, Nanak, and Tukaram, and Sufi poets like Amir Khusrau, promoted syncretism, tolerance, and devotional equality, challenging caste and religious rigidities. Their teachings fostered Bhakti and Sufi movements, emphasizing direct communion with the divine, which resonated with the masses.

However, the caste system, patriarchal norms, and feudal structures remained largely intact due to entrenched socio-economic realities and resistance from orthodox elites. Their influence was more pronounced in cultural domains, like music and literature, than in altering systemic inequalities. Thus, while their legacy persists in spiritual pluralism and social reform ideas, the structural transformation of Indian society was limited by the resilience of traditional hierarchies.

2. How and why did the ‘women question’ occupy the center stage of social reforms in India during the nineteenth century?

Ans: The ‘women question’ became central to 19th-century social reforms in India due to growing awareness of gender inequalities and colonial influences on societal introspection. Social evils like sati, child marriage, and widow oppression were rampant, prompting reformers like Raja Rammohan Roy and Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar to advocate change.

Reasons:

• Colonial Critique: British critiques of Indian traditions as ‘barbaric’ spurred reform to counter cultural inferiority narratives.
• Western Education: Exposure to liberal ideas inspired reformers to address women’s rights.
• Social Awakening: Reform movements like Brahmo Samaj emphasized gender equality as integral to societal progress.
• Legislative Push: Reforms like the Sati Regulation Act (1829) and Widow Remarriage Act (1856) addressed women’s issues.

The ‘women question’ was pivotal as it symbolized India’s quest for modernity and social justice, laying the foundation for future gender equality movements, though progress remained slow due to patriarchal resistance.

3. Discuss the present natural resources conservation policies of Odisha.

Ans: Odisha’s natural resources conservation policies focus on sustainable management of its rich forests, minerals, and biodiversity, balancing development with environmental protection. Key policies include:

• Odisha Forest Policy (2017): Promotes afforestation, community participation, and wildlife conservation, targeting 33% forest cover.
• Mining Regulations: Enforces sustainable mining through the Odisha Mineral Policy (2014), ensuring environmental restoration and royalty compliance.
• Biodiversity Conservation: Initiatives like Similipal Biosphere Reserve and Chilika Lake management protect ecosystems and endangered species.
• Renewable Energy: Odisha’s Renewable Energy Policy (2016) promotes solar and wind energy to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
• Coastal Management: The Integrated Coastal Zone Management Project safeguards marine ecosystems and prevents erosion.

These policies involve community engagement, technological interventions, and strict enforcement. Challenges include illegal mining and deforestation. Odisha’s efforts align with sustainable development goals, ensuring resource conservation for future generations while supporting economic growth.

4. Explain the regional incidence of poverty in Odisha.

Ans: Odisha exhibits stark regional disparities in poverty incidence, with significant variations between coastal and inland regions. The Tendulkar Committee (2011-12) estimated Odisha’s poverty rate at 32.6%, higher than the national average.

Regional Patterns:

• Coastal Districts: Areas like Cuttack and Puri have lower poverty rates (~15-20%) due to better infrastructure, agriculture, and tourism.
• Southern and Western Districts: Regions like Kalahandi, Koraput, and Nabarangpur (KBK region) show high poverty (~50-70%) due to tribal dominance, poor connectivity, and reliance on subsistence agriculture.
• Northern Odisha: Industrial hubs like Sundargarh have moderate poverty, benefiting from mining and industries.

Causes:

• Lack of infrastructure in tribal areas.
• Uneven agricultural productivity.
• Limited access to education and healthcare.

Government initiatives like KBK Yojana and MGNREGA aim to reduce disparities. Addressing regional imbalances through infrastructure development and skill training is crucial for equitable poverty alleviation in Odisha.

5. Critically examine the roles of pressure groups in political process of Odisha.

Ans: Pressure groups in Odisha significantly influence the political process, shaping policies and governance through advocacy and mobilization. They include farmers’ unions, tribal organizations, and industrial lobbies.

Roles:

• Policy Advocacy: Groups like Navnirman Krushak Sangathan push for farmers’ rights, influencing agricultural policies.
• Public Awareness: Tribal groups like Adivasi Adhikar Manch highlight issues of land rights and displacement.
• Checks and Balances: Environmental groups protest against unsustainable mining, ensuring accountability.
• Electoral Influence: Caste-based and labor unions sway voter preferences during elections.

Critical Analysis:

• Positive: Amplify marginalized voices, promote inclusive policies, and hold governments accountable.
• Negative: Some groups prioritize narrow interests, leading to policy distortions or delays (e.g., protests against industrial projects like POSCO).

While pressure groups strengthen Odisha’s democratic process, their influence can be divisive if not aligned with broader public interest. Effective dialogue with stakeholders is essential for balanced governance.

6. PRIs are key players in development of a country. In the light of the above sentence, examine the structure and function of Panchayat Samiti in Odisha.

Ans: Panchayat Raj Institutions (PRIs) are vital for grassroots development, and in Odisha, the Panchayat Samiti serves as an intermediary tier in the three-tier PRI system, linking village-level Gram Panchayats and district-level Zilla Parishads.

Structure:

• Composition: Includes elected members from Gram Panchayats, Sarpanchs, and ex-officio members like MLAs and BDOs.
• Leadership: Headed by a Chairperson elected by members, with a Block Development Officer (BDO) as executive head.
• Committees: Standing committees oversee sectors like agriculture, health, and education.

Functions:

• Development Planning: Prepares and implements block-level development plans.
• Scheme Execution: Manages schemes like MGNREGA and PMAY for rural infrastructure and housing.
• Resource Allocation: Distributes funds to Gram Panchayats for local projects.
• Monitoring: Oversees Gram Panchayat activities and ensures accountability.

The Panchayat Samiti fosters decentralized governance, empowering rural communities. However, challenges like inadequate funds and political interference limit its efficacy. Strengthening financial autonomy and capacity building will enhance its role in Odisha’s development.

7. Examine the status of Public Health in Tribal Areas in India. Comment on the health-seeking behaviour of tribal people in India.

Ans: Public health in India’s tribal areas remains a concern due to systemic challenges and socio-economic marginalization. Tribal populations, constituting ~8.6% of India’s population, face poor health outcomes.

Status:

• Health Indicators: High infant mortality (50 per 1000) and malnutrition rates (40% stunting) compared to national averages.
• Infrastructure: Limited access to PHCs and hospitals; tribal areas often lack trained medical staff.
• Disease Burden: Prevalence of communicable diseases (e.g., malaria, tuberculosis) and non-communicable diseases due to lifestyle changes.

Health-Seeking Behaviour:

• Traditional Practices: Tribal communities often rely on indigenous healers and herbal remedies due to cultural beliefs.
• Low Awareness: Limited knowledge of modern healthcare and preventive measures.
• Access Barriers: Distance, poverty, and language barriers deter hospital visits.
• Government Initiatives: Schemes like NHM and Ayushman Bharat aim to improve access, but implementation gaps persist.

Enhancing mobile health units, training ASHA workers in tribal languages, and integrating traditional and modern healthcare can improve health outcomes and encourage proactive health-seeking behaviour among tribals.

8. How is Communalism a threat to National Integration? Analyse.

Ans: Communalism, the prioritization of religious or ethnic identities over national unity, poses a significant threat to national integration in India’s diverse society.

Threats:

• Social Division: Communalism fosters mistrust and hostility among communities, undermining social cohesion.
• Violence and Riots: Incidents like the 2002 Gujarat riots disrupt peace and polarize society.
• Political Exploitation: Politicians exploit communal sentiments for electoral gains, weakening democratic values.
• Economic Impact: Communal tensions deter investments and disrupt economic activities.

Analysis:

• Cultural Diversity: India’s multi-religious fabric is strained by communal propaganda, challenging secularism.
• Regional Disparities: Communalism often intersects with regional grievances, fueling separatist tendencies.
• Countermeasures: Constitutional provisions like Article 25 (freedom of religion) and laws against hate speech aim to curb communalism.

Promoting interfaith dialogue, secular education, and strict enforcement of laws can mitigate communalism, fostering national integration and ensuring India’s unity in diversity.

9. Assess the personality profile of deprived classes students in Indian Society.

Ans: The deprived classes in India, including SCs, STs, and OBCs, constitute a significant portion of students facing socio-economic challenges. Their personality profile is shaped by systemic inequalities and resilience.

Key Traits:

• Resilience: Deprived students often exhibit determination to overcome poverty and discrimination.
• Low Self-Esteem: Social exclusion and stigma can lead to feelings of inferiority.
• Motivation: Government schemes like scholarships and reservations inspire academic aspirations.
• Cultural Influences: Strong community ties foster collectivism but may limit individual exploration.

Challenges:

• Limited access to quality education and resources hampers cognitive development.
• Socio-economic stressors like family responsibilities affect mental health.
• Discrimination in educational institutions impacts confidence.

Support Mechanisms:

• Policies like RTE Act and Post-Matric Scholarships promote inclusion.
• Counseling and mentorship programs can boost self-esteem.

While deprived students show resilience and aspiration, systemic barriers limit their potential. Strengthening educational access, social inclusion, and psychological support will nurture well-rounded personalities for societal contribution.

10. Discuss the importance of conservation of heritage sites in India.

Ans: Heritage sites in India, like Taj Mahal, Hampi, and Konark Sun Temple, are vital for cultural identity, tourism, and historical understanding. Their conservation is crucial for:

• Cultural Identity: Sites preserve India’s diverse history, fostering national pride and unity.
• Economic Benefits: Tourism from sites like Ajanta-Ellora generates revenue and jobs (~10% of GDP).
• Educational Value: Sites offer insights into ancient architecture, art, and societal evolution.
• Global Recognition: UNESCO World Heritage Sites enhance India’s global cultural standing.

Conservation Efforts:

• Archaeological Survey of India (ASI): Protects and restores monuments.
• Adopt a Heritage Scheme: Encourages private sector involvement.
• Community Engagement: Local participation ensures sustainable preservation.

Challenges include urbanization, pollution, and inadequate funding. Leveraging technology (e.g., 3D mapping) and public awareness can strengthen conservation, ensuring heritage sites remain a legacy for future generations.

Group B (250 Words Each)

11. ‘With the passing of the Guptas and their immediate successors in Northern India, historical interest shifts southwards to the Deccan and to the area referred as Tamilaham’ – Comment.

Ans: The decline of the Gupta Empire (6th century CE) marked a shift in India’s historical focus from the north to the Deccan and Tamilaham, driven by political, cultural, and economic developments. The Guptas’ fall led to fragmentation in the north, while southern kingdoms like the Chalukyas, Pallavas, and Cholas rose to prominence, shaping India’s historical narrative.

Key Developments:

• Political Power: The Chalukyas of Badami and Pallavas of Kanchipuram established strong kingdoms, with the Pallavas dominating Tamilaham through efficient administration and naval power.
• Cultural Flourishing: Tamilaham’s Sangam literature and Bhakti movement (e.g., Alvars and Nayanars) enriched cultural heritage, while Deccan temples like Aihole showcased architectural innovation.
• Economic Prosperity: South India’s maritime trade with Southeast Asia and Rome boosted economic growth, with ports like Mamallapuram thriving.
• Religious Syncretism: Jainism, Buddhism, and Hinduism flourished, with patronage from rulers like Mahendravarman I.

The north’s political vacuum contrasted with the south’s stability and cultural dynamism, drawing historical focus. Tamilaham’s contributions to literature, religion, and trade, alongside Deccan’s architectural and political advancements, marked a pivotal era, influencing India’s cultural and historical trajectory.

12. The Revolt of 1857 was much more than a mere product of sepoy discontent.’ Comment.

Ans: The Revolt of 1857, often termed India’s First War of Independence, transcended mere sepoy discontent and reflected widespread socio-economic, political, and cultural grievances against British rule.

Causes Beyond Sepoy Discontent:

• Economic Exploitation: British policies like high land revenue and deindustrialization impoverished peasants and artisans.
• Political Discontent: Annexations under the Doctrine of Lapse (e.g., Jhansi, Awadh) alienated princely states.
• Cultural and Religious Tensions: Reforms like the abolition of sati and fears of forced conversions fueled resentment.
• Social Disparities: Marginalization of traditional elites and zamindars created unrest.

Sepoy Discontent: The immediate trigger was the Enfield rifle cartridge issue, perceived as violating religious beliefs, but this was a spark for broader grievances.

Key Features:

• Widespread Participation: Involved sepoys, peasants, nobles (e.g., Rani Lakshmibai, Nana Saheb), and civilians across regions.
• Nationalist Undertones: Leaders aimed to restore Indian rule, with Bahadur Shah Zafar as a symbolic head.
• Regional Variations: Strong in Awadh, Delhi, and Kanpur, but limited in southern India.

Though suppressed due to disunity and British military strength, the revolt marked a turning point, leading to the end of East India Company rule and inspiring future nationalist movements, proving it was a broader struggle for independence.

13. Discuss the density distributional pattern of population in India.

Ans: India’s population density, at ~464 persons/km² (2020), varies significantly across regions due to geographical, economic, and social factors.

Distributional Pattern:

• High-Density Regions:
  • Indo-Gangetic Plains: Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and West Bengal (~800-1000 persons/km²) due to fertile land, agriculture, and urbanization.
  • Coastal Areas: States like Kerala and Tamil Nadu (~700-900 persons/km²) benefit from trade and infrastructure.
  • Urban Centers: Cities like Delhi and Mumbai have densities exceeding 10,000 persons/km².
• Moderate-Density Regions:
  • Central India (e.g., Madhya Pradesh, ~200-400 persons/km²) has balanced agricultural and industrial growth.
• Low-Density Regions:
  • Hilly and Arid Areas: Northeast states (e.g., Arunachal Pradesh, ~17 persons/km²) and deserts (Rajasthan, ~200 persons/km²) due to rugged terrain and low resources.
  • Tribal Regions: Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand have sparse populations due to forest cover.

Factors Influencing Density:

• Geography: Fertile plains attract settlements; hilly areas deter them.
• Economic Opportunities: Industrial hubs and urban centers draw migrants.
• Infrastructure: Better connectivity in coastal and northern regions supports higher density.

Challenges: High-density areas face resource strain, while low-density regions lack development. Balanced regional planning and sustainable urbanization are essential for equitable population distribution.

14. What are the major causes of regional imbalance in India?

Ans: Regional imbalance in India, marked by disparities in economic development, infrastructure, and living standards, stems from historical, geographical, and policy-related factors.

Major Causes:

• Geographical Variations:
  • Fertile regions (e.g., Punjab, Haryana) support agriculture, while arid (Rajasthan) or hilly (Northeast) areas face challenges.
  • Coastal states (e.g., Gujarat, Tamil Nadu) benefit from trade and ports.
• Historical Factors:
  • Colonial policies favored industrial hubs like Mumbai and Kolkata, neglecting regions like Bihar and Odisha.
• Economic Disparities:
  • Industrialization concentrated in western and southern states, leaving eastern states agrarian and underdeveloped.
  • Uneven investment in sectors like IT and manufacturing.
• Infrastructure Gaps:
  • Poor connectivity in Northeast and tribal areas limits economic growth.
  • Urban-rural divide exacerbates disparities.
• Policy Failures:
  • Centralized planning historically ignored backward regions.
  • Inadequate implementation of schemes like Aspirational Districts Programme.
• Social Factors:
  • Low literacy and health indices in states like Bihar and Uttar Pradesh hinder human capital development.
  • Caste and tribal marginalization limit opportunities.

Impact: Regional imbalances fuel migration, poverty, and social unrest. Addressing these requires targeted investments, infrastructure development, and inclusive policies to ensure equitable growth across India.

15. Judicial legislation is antithetical to the doctrine of separation of powers as envisaged in the Indian Constitution. How do you justify a large number of public interest petitions praying for issuing guidelines to the executives? Is it healthy for a democracy?

Ans: Judicial legislation, where courts issue guidelines to fill legislative or executive voids, can conflict with the separation of powers doctrine, which assigns distinct roles to the judiciary, legislature, and executive under the Indian Constitution. However, the rise of Public Interest Litigations (PILs) seeking executive guidelines is justified in specific contexts.

Justification:

• Executive Inaction: PILs address gaps where the executive fails to act, e.g., environmental protection (MC Mehta cases) or human rights (Vishaka guidelines).
• Protection of Rights: Courts safeguard fundamental rights (Articles 14, 19, 21) when legislative delays occur.
• Judicial Activism: PILs expand access to justice, empowering marginalized groups to seek redressal.
• Precedent-Based Guidance: Guidelines like Vishaka (sexual harassment) fill policy voids until legislation is enacted.

Health for Democracy:

• Positive: Strengthens accountability, protects citizen rights, and promotes rule of law.
• Concerns: Overreach risks undermining legislative authority and executive autonomy, potentially creating judicial supremacy.

Safeguards:

• Courts should limit guidelines to urgent, rights-based issues.
• Encourage legislative action post-guidelines (e.g., Sexual Harassment Act, 2013).

While PIL-driven guidelines enhance democratic accountability, excessive judicial intervention can disrupt separation of powers. A balanced approach ensures a healthy democracy.

16. Ordinance-making powers are misused at times. Evaluate the Constitutional and Judicial Safeguards in preventing the same.

Ans: Ordinance-making powers under Articles 123 and 213 allow the President and Governors to promulgate ordinances when the legislature is not in session, ensuring urgent governance. However, misuse occurs when ordinances bypass legislative scrutiny or extend beyond necessity.

Misuse Examples:

• Frequent ordinances to avoid parliamentary debate (e.g., repeated ordinances on land acquisition, 2015).
• Political motives to push controversial policies without consensus.

Constitutional Safeguards:

• Temporary Nature: Ordinances lapse after six weeks from the legislature’s reassembly unless passed as law.
• Legislative Oversight: Must be laid before the legislature for approval.
• Urgency Clause: Valid only when immediate action is necessary.

Judicial Safeguards:

• Judicial Review: Courts can strike down ordinances if mala fide or beyond constitutional limits (e.g., DC Wadhwa case, 1987, limiting re-promulgation).
• Fundamental Rights Protection: Ordinances violating rights (Article 21) are void.
• Reasonableness Test: Courts assess the urgency and necessity of ordinances.

Despite safeguards, misuse persists due to political expediency. Strengthening legislative accountability, limiting re-promulgation, and ensuring robust judicial oversight are essential to prevent abuse, safeguarding democratic principles and rule of law.

17. Justify the statement that ‘Human Resource Development is the foundation of Nation’s Development.’

Ans: Human Resource Development (HRD), encompassing education, health, and skill development, is the cornerstone of a nation’s development, as it empowers individuals to contribute to economic, social, and cultural progress.

Justification:

• Economic Growth:
  • Educated and skilled workforce drives productivity and innovation (e.g., India’s IT sector growth).
  • Higher literacy (~77% in 2020) correlates with GDP growth.
• Social Development:
  • Health improvements reduce mortality rates, enhancing workforce longevity.
  • Education empowers marginalized groups, reducing inequalities.
• Global Competitiveness:
  • Skilled human capital attracts investments and fosters technological advancement.
  • India’s demographic dividend (65% youth) can be leveraged through HRD.
• Sustainable Development:
  • Educated citizens promote environmental awareness and sustainable practices.
  • Healthier populations reduce healthcare burdens, freeing resources for development.

Government Initiatives:

• NEP 2020: Focuses on holistic education and skill development.
• Ayushman Bharat: Enhances healthcare access.
• Skill India: Trains youth for employment.

Challenges: Low public spending (3-4% of GDP on education), skill gaps, and regional disparities hinder HRD. Investing in quality education, healthcare, and vocational training is critical to transform India’s human capital into a driver of national development.

18. Examine the impact of Covid-19 on Education Sector in India.

Ans: The Covid-19 pandemic (2020-2022) profoundly impacted India’s education sector, disrupting learning, widening inequalities, and accelerating digital transformation.

Impacts:

• School Closures: Over 1.5 million schools shut, affecting 250 million students, leading to learning losses.
• Digital Divide:
  • Only 24% of rural households had internet access (2020), excluding many from online education.
  • Marginalized groups (SCs, STs) faced limited access to devices and connectivity.
• Learning Gaps: UNESCO estimated a 1.5-year learning loss, especially in foundational skills like literacy and numeracy.
• Mental Health: Isolation and uncertainty increased stress among students and teachers.
• Teacher Challenges: Lack of digital training hindered effective online teaching.

Positive Shifts:

• Digital Education: Platforms like DIKSHA and SWAYAM expanded e-learning access.
• Policy Reforms: NEP 2020 emphasized blended learning and digital infrastructure.
• Community Initiatives: Radio and TV-based education reached remote areas.

Challenges:

• Dropout rates rose, especially among girls (~4% increase in rural areas).
• Uneven recovery due to resource disparities.

The pandemic highlighted the need for inclusive digital infrastructure, teacher training, and hybrid learning models to ensure resilient and equitable education systems in India.

19. Analyse the contemporary Internal Security challenges to India.

Ans: India faces multifaceted internal security challenges, driven by socio-political, economic, and geopolitical factors, threatening national stability.

Key Challenges:

• Terrorism: Cross-border terrorism in Jammu & Kashmir (e.g., Pulwama attack, 2019) and Left-Wing Extremism in Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand disrupt peace.
• Insurgency: Ethnic and separatist movements in Northeast (e.g., NSCN in Nagaland) challenge sovereignty.
• Communalism: Religious and caste-based violence (e.g., Delhi riots, 2020) undermines social cohesion.
• Cyber Threats: Rising cyberattacks on critical infrastructure (e.g., power grids) pose new risks.
• Organized Crime: Drug trafficking and human smuggling fuel instability.
• Urban Naxalism: Ideological support for extremism in urban areas spreads radicalization.

Contributing Factors:

• Economic Disparities: Poverty and unemployment fuel unrest.
• Border Porosity: Infiltration from Pakistan and Bangladesh aids terrorism.
• Social Media: Misinformation amplifies communal tensions.

Government Measures:

• Security Forces: Strengthened operations by CRPF and NIA.
• Policy Initiatives: Schemes like SMART policing and UAPA amendments.
• Development Programs: Aspirational Districts Programme addresses socio-economic roots.

Addressing these challenges requires a balanced approach of security measures, economic development, and social integration to ensure India’s internal stability and national security.

20. Explain the Judicial endeavour in India for the Protection of Human Rights.

Ans: The Indian judiciary plays a pivotal role in protecting human rights, leveraging constitutional provisions and judicial activism to uphold dignity, equality, and justice.

Key Endeavors:

• Constitutional Framework:
  • Fundamental Rights (Articles 14, 19, 21) ensure equality, freedom, and life.
  • Directive Principles guide state policies for social justice.
• Public Interest Litigation (PIL):
  • Expanded access to justice for marginalized groups.
  • Landmark cases like Vishaka vs. State of Rajasthan (1997) established guidelines for workplace safety.
• Judicial Review: Courts strike down laws or actions violating rights (e.g., Navtej Johar case, 2018, decriminalizing homosexuality).
• Human Rights Institutions: Judiciary supports NHRC and SHRCs in addressing violations.
• Environmental Rights: Cases like MC Mehta vs. Union of India linked right to life with a clean environment.
• Prison Reforms: Orders for humane treatment of prisoners (e.g., DK Basu case, 1997).

Challenges:

• Judicial delays and pendency hinder timely justice.
• Enforcement gaps in remote areas.

Through PILs, landmark judgments, and oversight, the judiciary strengthens India’s human rights framework, ensuring constitutional values and social justice are upheld.

Read: OPSC Notes