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MAINS TEST
SERIES 2020
Themes from Geography & History
TEST NO.: QIP-MTS-20/MT(Essay)-1
SAMPLE ANSWERS
SAMPLE ANSWERS | QIP-MTS-20/MT(ESSAY)-1
THEMES FROM GEOGRAPHY & HISTORY
Question The Sample Answers have been constructed to train students about how to
No. write relevant and succinct answers in exam condition.
1. Lessons learnt from history make our present and future safe. (1195 125
Words)
History gives lessons. Lessons of history are valuable; provide insight,

inputs and foresight for action to carve out present and future safe.
Lessons from history are to be learnt to become wiser, smarter and make
present and future safe. Otherwise, history will repeat itself. If lessons of
history are ignored and not learnt, preventive and corrective actions are
not taken, same happenings, good or bad may repeat. History repeats if
the same mistakes, commissions, omissions are repeated and the same
circumstances are allowed to thrive. Whether it is at individual level,
family, society, or at political or economic sphere, history will repeat itself
unless one learns the lessons of history and transform and build one’s
present and future safe. History provides lessons for individuals,
institutions, civilizations, communities, countries and the world for taking
right action to make our present and future safe.
Those organizations or individuals who learn lessons from history will
understand the root causes of certain unfortunate incidents. They can
build their present and future safely by internalizing the principles
contained in the lessons to create present and future safe. If one analyses
the nuances of history, understands the undercurrents and one can try
avoiding those circumstances that can lead to the same history and make
one’s present and future safe.
Learning lessons from history is advantageous in many ways: It would
save time, energy, resources, efforts, and help to become wise to manage
the course of happenings by taking right actions on time. Eminent
leaders, scientists, military generals, inventors, discoverers, successful
personalities know not only the value of lessons of history but also apply
the lessons of history to mould the course of events for safer present and
future. For example, great military generals like Alexander the Great,
Napoleon Bonaparte; leaders like Abraham Lincoln, Roosevelt, Mahatma
Gandhi, scientists like Galileo, Copernicus, Marie Curie, Marconi, Graham
Bell, Wright Brothers; discoverers like David Livingston and Columbus had
internalized the lessons from earlier failures in warfare, events in political
arena, experiments and failed attempts to transform failures into success
in the present and future.
QIP-MTS-20/MT(Essay)-1/RAU’S IAS TEST SERIES 1 P.T.O.

In international politics, the world witnessed two world wars. After the
First World War form 1914-19, the committee of nations formed the
League of Nations to prevent future world wars. However, the same
mistakes of rivalry in building army, armaments and power blocs in
history repeated. Consequently, the institutional mechanism created to
prevent future world wars failed to prevent another world war. The
Second World War in 1939-45 could not be prevented by learning the
lessons from history. After the Second World War, the United Nations
Organization was formed. The inadequacies of the UN System and the
composition of Security Council are still serious concerns before the world
nations especially in the light of cold war era intensifying the arms’ race
between the USA and then USSR and even now when many countries in
the world are subjected to constant warfare, bombings and catastrophic
war crimes and consequent sufferings of humanity. Gulf wars, Afghan
crisis, Syrian civil war, Palestine-Israel conflicts, India-Pakistan disputes,
troubles in Yemen and ongoing migration and crisis in many parts of the
world bring many significant lessons for the humanity to learn to build
present and future safe. History validates that unless the lessons of
history are learnt by humanity and benefited from them in carving out a
safe present and future, history will repeat itself bringing in those
unfortunate incidents.
At national level, in India’s freedom struggle, Mahatma Gandhi entered
with firm faith in nonviolence, truth and non-cooperation as moral
weapons against the colonial powers. He disagreed with those leaders
who believed in extremism and fought violently. They failed to learn the
lessons of history. Warring against the world’s most powerful army was
not an easy, winning task. They continued violence against the world’s
mightiest empire of the times. Gandhiji studied history and lessons of
history meticulously. He learnt valuable lessons from his own life
experiences in South Africa and India and learnt to improvise and
innovate his strategy learning lessons from every incident in the past for
improving and adapting his present and future strategy to fight for India’s
freedom struggle till he succeeded.
The axiom is useful in every sphere of human interface. In case of
economic growth of a country, what the nations need to examine is the

impact of government policies towards improving different sectors of

Indian economy – agriculture, manufacturing and manning, construction,
infrastructure, industrial development, service sector, finance, banking,
capital market, and import export and learn lessons from failure to
change the outcome of the policies. Non-Performing-Asset crisis
happened in India’s banking sector because of not learning the financial
prudence lessons from banking sector. India’s backwardness in health
care, education system and management of sustainable development
goals validates the need to learn the lessons from the past experience to
make the present and future safe.
The Millennium Development Goals could not be achieved on the
scheduled date. They had to be replaced by 17 Sustainable Development
Goals in critical areas: eradication of extreme poverty, hunger, lack of
education, health and well-being. Gender equality is essential for
wellbeing of the society. Management of water and sanitation facilities to
households, providing energy, and boosting economic growth are critical.
Creation of jobs, inclusive growth, infrastructure, industry and innovation
can help in reducing inequalities and building sustainable cities. Creation
of equitable societies is linked to environmental protection and industrial
development. Lessons of history highlight need for a renewed global
partnership between governments, businesses, civil society and
individuals. Unless problems of implementation of 169 targets are
identified and addressed it will not be possible to achieve the envisage
sustainable development goals by 2030 with the objective, ‘leave no one
behind’.
The Government of India is committed to achievement of SDGs by 2030.
India’s objective, “sab ka saath, sab ka vikas” or “development with all, and
for all,” for inclusive development converges with SDGs. NITI Aayog, the
Government of India’s think tank mapped SDG schemes and highlighted
need to adopt a government-wide approach to sustainable development
showing linkages across economic, social and environmental concerns.
State governments have significant role to achieve SDG Agenda ‘putting
people first’ and ensuring that ‘no one is left behind’. Many of India’s
flagship programmes such as Swachh Bharat, Make in India, Skill India,
and Digital India can be effectively implemented only when the lessons

from their implementation issues are identified and properly addressed

on time. The role of rural and urban local governments is equally
important to achieve 15 of the 17 SDGs. The UN Country Team in India
supports NITI Aayog’s efforts to address the SDG goals. Lessons of history
must be learnt if the country has to succeed in achieving SDGs as
planned.
In any field and any discipline, at individual, societal, national and global
levels, lessons of history provide valuable lessons to be learnt. Individual,
who fails to learn from life’s failures and success, cannot ensure secure
and safe present and future. Failures of life must be analyzed to learn the
lessons to succeed in the ensuing attempts. Success in life also throws
lights on how success could be achieved providing inputs for
transforming success in different gamut of human activities.

2. Relevance of Mahatma Gandhi in current times. (1198 Words) 125
Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the nation - India, lived and died,
practicing and demonstrating what he believed, advocated, thought and
preached in his life. Gandhiji remains an embodiment of ideology built
over principles of integrity, ethical and moral values. Gandhian values
matter. They are universally valid all over the world and in all ages to
come. Gandhian principles of compassion, love, truth, nonviolence and
non-cooperation with the unjust and the violent are universally valid
principles and values. They have enormous significance for national,
regional, continental and world levels for creating a just, fair, equitable
and inclusive world. Gandhiji’s principles are valid for social unity,
inclusive economic growth, social, economic and political justice for the
people of India and national integration. Today there are social and
communal disruptions caused by sectarian and vested interests of
different groups of people. Social, economic and political amity has
become more critical now than ever before.
Gandhiji experimented with truth, nonviolence, compassion, love, non-
cooperation with the exploiters. His ideas, ideals, principles, philosophy
and thoughts are unique backed by exceptional ethical courage and
conviction. Nobody would have believed in Gandhian philosophy had he
not proved them by applying on different occasions in different contexts
and situations during his personal life, professional and political life
including many critical circumstances during India’s freedom movement.
As Albert Einstein said, nobody would have believed such a man had ever
lived.
Gandhiji believed that means and ends must be ethical and non-violent.
For him however noble the end be, means should also be equally noble
and principled. End does not justify means. He was considered as one of
the greatest world leaders ever lived in the world.
Gandhiji believed that the nature has enough to meet the needs of
humanity but not the greed of the people. He believed in self-reliance of
villages of India. He believed in living by nature. Gandhi believed in simple
living and high thinking. He emphasized that communal unity must be
based on equal respect for all religions. Gandhi said, everyone must

regard for other faiths as he had for his own. Gandhi's basic belief in
goodwill, openness and understanding between men and women and
between communities.
Gandhiji believed in basic human values, fundamental human rights,
dignity of individual and self-respect. He considered education as the light
of life. The universality of religion can best be realized through the
universalization of education. Gandhi advocated patience, persuasion,
perseverance, peace, love, harmony among people. Gandhi taught us the
dignity of labor for creating a new India.
Gandhi wanted to bridge the gulf between the well off and the rest for
national integration. People must work for economic equality and social
justice. Since Gandhi was assassinated, Gandhi left for humanity his
teachings. There is a globally a non-violent awakening after Gandhi.
Relevance of Gandhi is more in the present world when there is
nonviolence spreading everywhere in the world. War crimes are
increasing all over the world. The world is becoming more materialistic,
agnostic and consumerist way. Gandhi stood for his principles and ethical
values in his life. Gandhi began his fight against injustice, civil liberties,
human rights and fundamental human values in South Africa. Gandhian
principles were adopted by Dr. Nelson Mandela. In the USA Martin Luther
King fought for civil liberties on the Gandhian lines. He built over his
methodology based on Gandhian ethics and tactics. Martin Luther King
(Jr.) believed that humanity could progress towards a world of peace and
harmony. Gandhiji contributed to freedom movement in different parts of
the world and adoption of non-violence strategies. Mahatma Gandhi
transcended beyond race, religion and nation-states, and emerged as the
prophetic voice of the 21st century. Gandhiji is remembered for his
ideology and passionate adherence to the practice of love, compassion,
non-violence and humanism.
Gandhi studied Gita, Bible, Koran, Hinduism, Christianity, Buddhism,
Jainism, Islam, philosophy, ethics, science, literature and politics. Gandhi
demonstrated adherence to truth and non-violence in personal life,
professional life and in a world torn by civil commotion, terrorism,
violence, wars, crimes, violence and destruction. Mahatma Gandhi
cautioned the world about seven "deadly sins" that would destroy

humanity: wealth without Work, pleasure without conscience;

knowledge without character, commerce (business) without morality and
ethics, science without humanity, science without humanity; religion
without sacrifice and Politics without Principles.
Looking at the current ground realities of India, Gandhism has enormous
significance and relevance in contemporary times. Today’s world has
forgotten Gandhi and the ideology and principles he stood for. Indians
mostly do not follow Gandhi's teachings. The country witnessed many
communal riots. Gandhi's message of 'Swabalambi' or self-sufficiency and
'Sarvodaya' or 'universal upliftment' or 'progress of all'. India today is
distinct with many richest men in the world amidst more than 30 per cent
of the population living in poverty and devoid of basic human
entitlements to health, sanitation, housing, education and employment.
Gandhi was a shrewd pragmatist politician advocated peace, harmony,
sustainable livelihood to the poor in India and the world. He believed in
ethical, nonviolent and democratic rights to entire humanity including
minorities and marginalized underprivileged poor millions.
Mahatma Gandhi transcends race, religion and nation-states, and
emerged as an epitome of humanism, human values and sublime human
rights. Gandhi implemented ahimsa in modern politics. He was an unusual
political and spiritual leader inspired by his conscience and deep conviction in
moral values and fundamental human rights and entitlements. Gandhi
believed in Thoreau's idea 'that men should not obey evil or unjust laws'.
Gandhi thought, acted and inspired by humanity to build a world of peace
and harmony. Gandhi embodies ideology that can inspire ordinary people to
perform extraordinary deeds. Gandhi’s doctrine of peace, fearlessness,
power of moral courage and conviction can transform a just, peaceful and
more equitable and humane modern world. Gandhi inspired, motivate and
will continue to encourage many political, economic, social and religious
leaders and events in the world. His ideals are universal and valid in the
past, present and future in the world. Albert Einstein said: "Generations to
come, it may well be, will scarce believe that such a man as this ever in flesh
and blood walked upon this earth".
Gandhi was against the caste system. He called Harijans to pay respect to
the lower caste people. Gandhism stands for building a casteless,

classless, inclusive society where everyone is treated equally. Gandhi

believed in socialism. Gandhian socialism is not radical but believes in
creation of a classless society with no poverty, no hunger, no
unemployment and education and health for all. Relevance of Gandhi is
reflected in poverty alleviation, universal education or Sarva Shiksha
Abhiyan and universal health care or Ayushman Bharat. It inspires
flagship programmes like Skill India, MGNREGA, National food security act
in India to Obamacare policy of the United States of America. Gandhiji
was a champion of cleanliness or Swacchta and inspires India’s Swacchta
Bharat Abhiyaan. Gandhiji emphasized integrity in all walks of life. The
United Nation recognized Gandhian idea of sustainable development.
Gandhi Solar Park at the headquarters United Nation is a testimony to
Gandhian energy policy. Gandhi inspires environmental conservation,
sustainable development, trusteeship. Gandhi continues to be relevant to
the world today and empowers humanity to lead more humane,
sustainable and ethical life.

3. Global Warming: Is it a race against time for humanity? (1111 words) 125
Global warming is one of the greatest challenges before humanity. It is

like a race against time. Time is running out for humanity to take effective
action to mitigate the adverse impact of global warming. Anthropogenic
activities cause increasing emissions of Green House Gases.
Consequences are real, felt all over the word. Polar glaciers melt leading
to rising sea levels. Due to global warming, coral reefs die. Natural
disasters like floods, cyclones, tsunami, droughts, desertification, extreme
weather conditions increase threatening people’s health, life and food
security. National economies get disrupted. Unless appropriate solutions
are adopted, humanity will be unable to breathe clean air, drink potable
water, live sustainably.
Climate change is evidenced by record-breaking heat waves, droughts,
hurricanes and catastrophic flooding. The cost of these extreme weather
patterns is expensive and painful for every part of the affected world.
Evidence substantiates that global warming is real and closely interlinked
to volatile, erratic, and unprecedented weather patterns. The rise in
carbon dioxide and other GHG emissions contribute to increase in global
temperatures, affect precipitation patterns unevenly. The humanity is
paying the price for its actions.
The World Meteorological Organization shows that there is 50% growth in
carbon dioxide from 2016 level and its concentration is the highest in
800,000 years. The world is in a race against time. The worst rains in Japan
killed more than 220 people in this summer. Japan, Germany, France and
other nations in the world are determined to enhance the use of
renewable energy.
If determined, humanity can reduce GHG emissions to bring down the
global average temperature to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. The Paris
Agreement is a blue print of action to reverse the impact of global
warming. The UN Secretary-General António Guterres requested the
world leaders to take action to meet their nationally determined
contributions by 2020 with reduction in GHG emissions by 45 per cent
over the next decade, and to net zero emissions by 2050.
The governments must work with private sector, civil society, local
authorities and international organizations in six areas: renewable

energy; resilient infrastructures and cities; sustainable agriculture, forests

and oceans; adaptation to climate impacts; and alignment of public and
private finance with a net zero economy. To transform economies in line
with sustainable development goals should include women as key
decision-makers.
Climate solutions will strengthen the economies, create jobs, bring
cleaner air, preserve natural habitats, biodiversity, and environment.
Innovative technological solutions can help in adoption of renewable
energy cost effectively than fossil-fuels. Solar, wind energy and other
renewable energy sources are becoming cheaper. Electric vehicles and
climate-smart practices are being adopted now. Carbon pricing reflects
the cost of GHG emissions. Health hazards of pollution highlight the need
to replace fossil fuel-based power plants by new renewable energy-based
ones.
The UN Secretary-General emphasized action to curb GHG emissions. For
that, public and private partnership is required. Resources mobilization
for decarbonisation is a must. Action should focus on transforming
industries such as Oil and Gas, Steel, Cement, Chemicals and Information
Technology by reducing emissions. Biodiversity needs to be conserved.
Mitigation measures are required at urban and rural areas, low-emission
buildings are to be preferred, mass transport and urban infrastructure
must be resorted to manage climate change.
Additionally, it is important to achieve Nationally Determined
Contributions (NDCs) as per the Paris Agreement. Proper mitigation
action on climate change must be accelerated. Youth including women
can contribute substantially. Collective efforts are needed for reducing air,
water, noise pollution, waste management, conservation of biodiversity,
environmental management, preservation of sustainable ecosystem and
generating jobs, strengthening climate adaptation strategies, inclusive
growth protecting the vulnerable groups. UNDP and UNFCCC have been
supporting countries to meet Nationally Determined Contributions.
The UN Climate Action Summit held in New York in 2019 rein force
collective action. About 200 countries pledged to reduce emissions
through 2025 and beyond.

Renewable energy is not even one-third of the overall energy mix now.
Japan possesses some of the most advanced renewable energy
technologies. Private sector investment is critical for successful energy
transitions. Policies must incentivize investment and innovation. Capital
markets play a significant role to promote investment in clean energy and
fossil fuel divestment. In Japan, out of some $70 billion worth of green
bonds issued by the private sector globally in 2017, only $2 billion came
from Japanese companies. China issued more than $25 billion of green
bonds to mitigate global warming.
Thus, anthropogenic reasons cause global warming and consequent
climate change. Humanity is suffering; many are dying and the entire
ecosystems are collapsing. Unless mitigation measures are taken as per
the Paris Agreement, rising sea levels and increasingly incidence of
catastrophic disasters may continue. Mass migration of climate refugees
will destabilize the world. Least Developed Countries (LDCs) need more
funds for taking climate resilience adaptation programs. The Climate
Action Summit was a precursor to next year’s U.N. Climate Change
Conference, COP26 to be held in Glasgow. Humanity must wake up and
must not lose the race against global warming. The Intergovernmental
Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) called for expeditious actions to keep
global warming below 1.5°C.
As the problems are multifaceted, the solutions must be
multidimensional to win the race against time and save our Common
Earth. The transitions in land, energy, industry, buildings, transport, and
cities are required to address climate-related risks to health, livelihoods,
food security, water supply, human security, and economic growth.
Biodiversity and ecosystems need to be preserved. A new toolkit was
introduced by the Commonwealth to help member countries to
implement their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). Several
flagship Commonwealth programmes are scheduled under COP24 like
the Commonwealth Blue Charter on ocean governance and the
Commonwealth Disaster Risk Portal.
As cautioned Costa Rican President Carlos Quesada, “Time is running out’.
Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany released climate plan for her
nation and stated that her government would double funding for global

climate protection to 4 billion euros. Large investment and insurance

firms agreed to put efforts to make carbon-neutral by 2050. UK PM Boris
Johnson said that UK had earmarked 11.6 billion pounds aid for
developing countries to combat climate change between 2021 and 2025.
China, the world’s largest emitter of greenhouse gases did not make any
new commitments. The United States had withdrawn in 2017 from the
Paris Agreement.
Addressing the session at the UN Climate Action Summit in New York,
Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted India's robust action to
address climate change in line with global goals. PM said "need and not
greed" is the guiding principle of India to tackle climate change. He
mentioned India’s determination to scrap single-use plastics. Renewable
sources of energy and Clean India Campaign will help in India's drive
towards sustainable climate action.

4. Geography may remain the same, history need not. (1119 words) 125
Geography may become a permanent feature of a nation, bounded by

defined borders and neighbouring countries; but the history of a country
need not be the same. This remark was made by former Prime Minister of
India, Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 1998. India is bordered by 11 neighbouring
countries. India shares Line of Control (LOC) with Pakistan borders, and
Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China. India and Pakistan were carved
out of same geographical terrain but Pakistan move out of the
neighbourhood of Indian geographical terrain. It remains a geographical
extension. Historically also the two nations share common history during
the ancient, medieval and modern period; but the course of history since
creation of Pakistan in 1947 by dividing erstwhile Indian territory has
been filled with unprecedented events and uncertainties deviating from
the past. Shared boundary remains, but the course of future history was
not the same.
History changed over the period. There were Indo-Pakistan Wars in 1947–
1948, 1965, 1971 and 1999. Many armed conflicts, insurgency, skirmishes,
standoffs in Jammu and Kashmir, Siachen, Baluchistan, during 2001-2002,
2016–2018 and 2019. Sustained engagement between the two countries
can find ways to bridge the “trust deficit”. The inability of the two sides to
engage diplomatically and settle the border disputes reflects the mistrust
between the two nations. 2008 Mumbai attacks made increased distrust
between the neighbours. Pakistan has been belligerent towards India
because of its domestic political compulsions. Mature political leadership
on both sides can only make constructive engagement forward. The
foreign policies of both nations are designed taking into account the two
countries’ strategic geopolitical situation.
India has land border of 15,200 km; coastline of the mainland combined
with the Lakshadweep and Andaman &Nicobar Islands. India shares its
land borders with seven countries Pakistan, Afghanistan, Nepal, Bhutan,
China, Bangladesh, and Myanmar and maritime borders with Bangladesh,
Indonesia, Myanmar, Pakistan, Thailand, Sri Lanka and Maldives. India’s
‘extended neighbourhood’ in the Central Asian Region consists of five
nations namely; Kazakhstan, Kirghizstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and
Uzbekistan, who became independent after the disintegration of

erstwhile USSR in 1991. These geographical realities must be kept in view

while formulating India’s foreign policy. Keeping in mind the geo-political
security environment, India needs to adopt best possible political and
diplomatic engagements with its immediate and extended
neighbourhood to safeguard its national interests.
Economic development and welfare of the people is the most significant
objective of a nation. There must be security, stability, peace,
understanding and cooperation among the countries in the
neighbourhood. India’s immediate neighbourhood must therefore be the
lynchpin of India’s foreign policy initiatives. India has been attempting to
build the best possible relations with its neighbourhood. Foreign policy of
India aims to protect the territorial integrity and sovereignty by effectively
managing the borders and safeguarding India’s economic, trade,
connectivity, maritime and transit interests in the land and Indian Ocean
Region (IOR).
Former PM Vajpayee’s dictum pinpoints the need to develop the best
possible foreign policy option with neighbours. PM Modi follows
‘neighbourhood first’ policy is for strengthening India’s relations with its
immediate neighbours as a priority area. India engages with its
neighbours through bilateral, multilateral, and regional mutually
beneficial agreements for peace, security and enhanced trade,
investment, aid and partnership in development through diplomatic
engagements.
The “Neighbourhood first” policy is critical for India to become a credible
regional and global power too. After assuming power for the second
term, PM Modi visited Maldives and Sri Lanka in June, 2019. It heralded a
new impetus to India’s “Neighbourhood first” foreign policy initiative,
redefining its neighbourhood policy advocated in 2014. Considering
India’s regional hegemonic position among its neighbours and China’s aid
and investment policy in the region through its ambitious Belt Road
Initiative (BRI), PM’s visit to Maldives and Sri Lanka marked India’s
strategic security concerns in the Indian Ocean Region. India’s regional
preponderance and growing global aspirations require security, peace,
stability and maritime trade and connectivity with a clearly defined
neighbourhood first policy.

Being the largest country in South Asia in geographical area and

population and as the fastest growing world economy, India assumes its
responsibility for the region as a “big brother”. As the political regimes in
Maldives and Sri Lanka have, in recent years, showed closer affiliation to
China, India cannot neglect these countries. The Chinese BRI finally
pushed them into debt trap. President Sirisena in Sri Lanka and President
Mohamed Solih of Maldives are now relatively well-disposed towards
India. India must consolidate the diplomatic gains to check further
Chinese inroads into the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
India’s utmost priority lies in its immediate neighbourhood are
demonstrated by creating strategic partnership with these countries. Sri
Lanka and Maldives are critical part of for safeguarding India’s maritime
interests Indo-Pacific region. The Solih government in Maldives
propounded an “India first” policy, “re-igniting the India-Maldives
friendship” and “exploring new avenues while strengthening existing
links”.
Indian foreign policy aims at making Indian Ocean countries to be
strategic partners of an India-led maritime security initiative to maintain
peace and stability in the region. Maldives is an important partner for the
Coastal Surveillance Radar System (CSRS) built by India. Maldives joins
other Indian Ocean littorals like Seychelles, Mauritius, and Sri Lanka as
part of India’s strategic network of CSRS. The Indian Navy and Maldives
National Defense Force signed a Technical Agreement on Sharing White
Shipping Information to strengthen India’s maritime interest in the Indian
Ocean region (IOR). India and Maldives also pledged for “coordinated
patrolling and aerial surveillance, exchange of information, and capacity
building” in the IOR. India’s inclusive vision of SAGAR (Security and Growth
for All in the Region) in the Indo-Pacific is in contrast to China’s
development model creating debt burden in these countries. PM said that
India’s development partnerships are directed to empower people, and
not to weaken them. India offered Maldives a USD $800 million line of
credit agreement for social and economic development, a grant
assistance of USD $5.5 million, and a cash grant of USD $6.9 million
significantly demonstrates that New Delhi is focusing on people-centric
and need-based projects in the region.

A recent deal between Sri Lanka, Japan, and India to jointly develop
the East Container Terminal at the Colombo Port, close to the China-
backed Colombo International Financial City, indicates that India’s intent
to join with other like-minded powers like Japan, the US or the EU to
provide an alternative to Chinese projects. The unique geographical
position of India’s neighbours and busy maritime trade lanes surrounding
the nation in the Indian Ocean may determine India’s foreign policy.
History of future events need not remain the same, but geographical
determinism in carving out the future destiny of nations may remain.

ADDITIONAL
CONTENT
FOR
CONCEPTUAL
CLARITY
ADDITIONAL CONTENT | QIP-MTS-20/MT(ESSAY)-1
ADDITIONAL CONTENT FOR CONCEPTUAL CLARITY AND RELATED INFORMATION
1. Lessons learnt from history make our present and future safe.
Relevant Quotes
“Those who cannot learn from history are doomed to repeat it” - George Santayana
“History is philosophy teaching by examples” - Thucydides
“History is a vast early warning system” - Norman cousins
“If you think you have it tough, read history books” - Bill Maher
“Men have need of history because, without it, the past threatens to overwhelm them.” - Guy Fregault
INTRODUCTION
Points to Ponder
Winston Churchill said "Those that fail to learn from history, are doomed to repeat it." Anthropologist Richard Irvine
has argued, we must “be open to deep time.” The critical scrutiny, observation and introspection of our deep time
make the life of the humanity and planet safe, peaceful and prosperous. The lessons from our past time are a guide
and light to shape the architecture and landscape of our present and future.
The most important lessons from history are the takeaways that are so broad they can apply to other fields, other
eras, and other people. That’s where lessons have leverage and are most likely to apply to your own life.
Temporal Elaboration or Connect
Points to Ponder
 Genesis of history started when our pre historic ancestors felt the need to the rock paintings to record their past
mistakes or experiences of hunting, so that the future generations could learn from it and ensure their very
survival.
 Ayurveda is one of the oldest medical systems, which comprises thousands of medical concepts and hypothesis.
Interestingly, Ayurveda has ability to treat many chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, arthritis, and asthma,
which are untreatable in modern medicine. In fact modern medicines have taken several things from
charaksamhita and Ayurveda.
 People suffering from sudden, unexpected hardship are likely to adopt views they previously thought
unthinkable. One of the most fascinating parts of the Great Economic Depressions of 1929 isn’t just that the
economy collapsed, but how quickly and dramatically people’s views changed when it did.
 Americans voted Herbert Hoover into office in 1928 with one of the biggest landslides in history (444 Electoral
College votes). They voted him out in 1932 with a landslide in the other direction (59 Electoral College votes).
Lessons from history in Different Spheres
 Studying history is important because it allows us to understand our past, which in turn allows us to understand
our present. If we want to know how and why our world is the way it is today, we have to look to history for
answers. People often say that “history repeats itself,” but if we study the successes and failures of the past, we
may, ideally, be able to learn from our mistakes and avoid repeating them in the future.
 History is replete with lessons for humanity’s progress and development because past is always a permanent
dimension of human consciousness and values. History has both negative & positive examples and experiences
which keep on beckoning regularly. For example, with respect to post independent India, the first set of people
who learnt from the history was the people in the constituent assembly who were drafting the Constitution of
India.

 In political sphere: The Hitler and Mussolini authoritarian, fascist and inhuman approach divided the world and
resulted in the world war and the humanitarian crisis of the past. The leadership in the present world is also
facing many challenges in terms of protectionism, authoritarianism, extreme ideological inclination, intolerance
depicted in the way of dealings with one another. It is painted in Arab-Iran relation or China-USA relation or crisis
in Middle East or Africa and Hong Kong protests. Therefore the leadership should be in consonance with
established multilateral principles based upon rule of law, tolerance, respect to sovereignty, dignity and
democratic fabric and cooperative spirit.
 In Indian perspective: After analysing such distorted distribution in history, the constitution makers included
“Justice- Social, Economic and Political”, Equality of status and opportunity along with Liberty for all the citizens of
India in the Preamble. In F.R., they emphasised on Right to Equality and to promote it by reducing the gaps
between haves and have nots, introduced positive discrimination in Article 15 and Article 16. Further, to bring
better parity between the most downtrodden and the most powerful introduced Abolition of Untouchability (Art.
17) and Abolition of Titles (Art. 18).
 Hence, it can easily be seen that learnings from history were utilised to improve our present and lay the
foundation for better future. Such conscious was carried forward by the policy and lawmakers for e.g. 33%
reservation for women in local self-government, reservation of constituencies for SCs and STs, reservation in
administration for distributing political power; abolition of Zamindari, Land Redistribution Act, Land Ceiling Act for
distributing land ownership; RTE for promoting access to education to all; by promoting Entrepreneurship and Start-up
culture even democratizing the business space.
 In social sphere: The divisive racial and ethnic differences led to the exclusion of the Blacks, apartheid regime
and genocide in Rwanda and deep fissures along ethnic lines in African nations and refugee crisis in Africa and
Myanmar. The present is not unaffected by that with discrimination along racial lines and inequality raising
concerns of equitable and just world order. The future needs to be based upon the principles of “Vasudhaiv
Kutumbakam” meaning “Whole world is one family” to ensure respect for dignity, social harmony, mutual respect
and fraternity and social stability.
We can also look back on the Indian Freedom movement and see why India puts so much effort into creating a
system where everyone is equal before the law and has equal access to public amenities. History also allows us to
see how India gradually created the Constitution a without a background in history, one does not appreciate why
the Constitution was revolutionary for its time. More broadly, history enables us to understand different cultures.
 In economic sphere: Industrial revolution led to the change in the economy of the world. It led to the mass
production and distribution of the goods and services. At the same time it cost the humanity environmental challenges as
climate changes depicted by the concerns raised in Paris climate deal. Therefore the future economic policy needs to
be a calibrated one converging into Sustainable Development. One can look at past economic trends and be able
to offer reasonable predictions of what will happen next in today's world. One can also understand why some
rules exist in the modern world. For example, one can understand the importance of the social welfare programs
if one looks at the Great Depression and New Deal.
 In technological sphere: The nuclear power has although contributed to facilitate energy security, but rendered
large amount of radioactive waste at the helm of future generations. Moreover the nuclear war looms over the
world with the capacity acquired by many countries to carry out nuclear strike. Therefore peaceful and safe use of
nuclear technology can only result in the global peace and safe environment.
 In cultural sphere: Learning from history can provide us with insight into our cultures of origin as well as cultures
with which we might be less familiar, thereby increasing cross-cultural awareness and understanding.
 At individual Sphere: One can analyse history because it allows one to exercise their critical thinking skills. These
critical thinking skills are important for all areas in life, academic and otherwise.

Hence an aspirant has to put her thoughts on the basis of the following:
Area of learning Examples from History Actions undertaken or can be undertaken

Political
Economic
Social
Environmental
Science
International
Conclusion
On the basis of above, it is amply clear that History is always relevant in understanding and shaping the current and
future requirements. This can be promoted by ushering in analytical assessment and rational understanding of the
past and its relevance today. The beginning can be done by influencing young and nurturing minds in schools and
colleges by giving due weightage to teaching of History more logically so that students are able to deduce both the
positives & negatives, and hence sensitised.
In a nutshell, the day History is taken seriously, taught proactively and delivered in the manner of connecting the past
with the present and future in the educational institutions, then it can usher in thinking revolution and hence can
promote democratic, egalitarian and all-inclusive developmental mind-sets and thus making our future safe.
Hence the past is the mirror to our present and reflection to a better future. The challenges faced by us in the present
times such as terrorism, radicalization, intolerance, violence, global economic slowdown, trade wars, political
instabilities, environmental degradation, inequality, corruption and many others need to look into the past for a
coherent approach and strategy to counter these.
These can be countered through cooperation, coordination of all the stakeholders in the world aimed at rebuilding the
future architecture and reshaping the social institutions to reconstruct a “New Future for all”.
Thus we need is cooperative and competitive Globalization taking the stalk of the last mile or remote or poorest of
poor and also the privileged ones ensuring the justice, equality, freedom, liberty of the individual, community and
peace, prosperity and progress of societies and countries.
2. Relevance of Mahatma Gandhi in Current Times
Relevant Quotes
"Generations to come, it may well be, will scarce believe that such a man as this one ever in flesh and blood
walked upon this Earth.”― Albert Einstein
“Be the change that you wish to see in the world.” ― Mahatma Gandhi
“Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.― Mahatma Gandhi
“An eye for an eye will only make the whole world blind.”― Mahatma Gandhi
“Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.”― Mahatma Gandhi
“The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong.”― Mahatma Gandhi,
“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”― Mahatma Gandhi

INTRODUCTION
Points to Ponder
 The name of Mahatma Gandhi transcends the bounds of race, religion and nation-states, and has emerged as the
prophetic voice of the twenty-first century. Gandhi was a multi-faceted personality. He was a nationalist and an
internationalist, a traditionalist and reformist, a political leader and a spiritual mentor, a writer and a thinker and a
pacifist and an activist for social reform and change. The world remembers the Mahatma not just for his
passionate adherence to the practice of non-violence and supreme humanism, but as the benchmark against
which we test men and women in public life, political ideas and government policies, and the hopes and wishes of
our shared planet.
 Lately UN Secretary General Guterres said that Mahatma Gandhi gave us a talisman to judge any policy and
indeed any action – to assess if the proposed action would enhance the life, dignity and destiny of the poorest
person we had met. Sanitation, maternal health, primary education, gender balance, women empowerment,
reduction of hunger, and ensuring partnerships for development formed the basis for Gandhi's life and practice
long before the MDGs or SDGs were designed. In fact, the Sustainable Development Goals are Gandhian
philosophy in action.
BODY
Gandhian Philosophy : As a point culmination of Ancient Indian Philosophies
 Mahatma Gandhi was influenced by Ancient Indian Philosophy and teaching of Holy Bhagvat Gita. He gave
importance to Aparigraha i.e Non possession and Sambhawa.
 His concept of Non Violence was inspired by Buddhism and Jainism.
 Ashoka embraced peace after “Kalinga War”.
Gandhian Philosophy : Remained hugely relevant in the recent past
 The phenomenal success Gandhi registered in far-away South Africa fighting for human rights and civil liberties
has great significance when we find that later his teachings were adopted not only by Nelson Mandela, the South
African freedom fighter, but it was also subsequently revealed that the former South African president De Klerk
was greatly influenced by Gandhi's principles. In fact, from Dalai Lama to Desmond Tutu and from Martin
Luther King to Nelson Mandela, many world leaders were inspired by Mahatma Gandhi, all in their own
different ways.
Gandhian Philosophy : Relevance in 21st century
At Individual/Societal Level
 Trusteeship principle - All assets of the firm must be held by a “trust” and must be used for the welfare of the
society. The firm must keep only a small part of its profits for the honourable livelihood of its owners. The
remaining part of the profit must be distributed equitably to all sections of society. It might help in reduction of
Inequality.(In OXFAM inequality index India fared poorly, ranking 147 out of 157 countries, in terms of its
commitment to reducing inequality).In today’s Era companies are following Social Corporate Responsibility. For
e.g. Tata Group spends Rs 8000 crore on CSR in 10 years.
 His idea of Swadeshi which talks of “production for neighbours” if applied to the world at large with his theory of
“antyodaya” or “the last man” which speaks of providing every individual with the basic necessities can negate the
effects of globalization by ensuring everyone fruits of developmental process.
 His philosophy of “Satyagrah” which according to him meant “the force which is born of truth or non-
violence” is required more in the contemporary world scenario where accumulation of nuclear weapon has
become the means to attain supremacy. Despite the efforts of various peace-keeping forces the threat of nuclear
war persists in the sub consciousness of world and the only method which has the potential to remove this “ever
lingering fear” is satyagrah.

 Nai Talim – is conceived as a “craft-based” education in which practical skill serves as the center and foundation
of an individual’s spiritual, cultural, and social development and in which skills such as literacy and mathematics
are learned in context with and in service to their craft. In this approach to schooling, academic subjects are
taught in an interdisciplinary way and never separated from their practical application in the world. The craft-
centred approach instils the dignity of labour, the value of self-sufficiency (swadeshi), and strengthens local
culture.
 Value education -The importance of providing value education is felt necessary today because the present
system of education cannot contribute much to the individual and social development. Value-oriented education
does not mean preaching of mere moral sciences or propagating particular religious tenets, but it is imparting
knowledge of values considered functional for both individual as well as society.
 Emphasis on Humanism not Caste – Which means worth and dignity of each person. Improving conditions of
Dalits.(Relevant due to cases such as Una Violence).Focus should be on raising the moral consciousness of upper
caste to reform the caste system.
 Gender equality-Women are equal – Woman is gifted with equal mental capacities as man. They have natural
orientation for Patience and sacrifice. Role of Women is crucial in Sanitation.(Swatch Bharat Abhiyan).
 Religion-According to Gandhiji, Religion is a source of moral governance in the world. As soon as we lose moral
basis we cease to be religious. Relevant in the context of intolerance debate. The intensity of riots is increasing in
India and on an average the country witnessed 161 rioting cases with 247 victims every day.
 Talisman – In his Talisman he said “your step! “ Its important for Administrators and politicians in governance. I
give you one mantra, whenever you are in doubt or whenever your ego gets over your personality, undergo this
test; remember the face of the poorest or the weakest person that you have seen, recall his looks and ask your
inner self how useful your intended step would be for that person. Will this, in anyway, benefit him! Will he be able
to get some control over his life and destiny through?
At National Level
 “Satya” and “Ahimsa” emanate basic human principles of love, compassion and tolerance. Looking at the
current/recent cases of Lynching, Domestic Violence and war on Syria. These principles even become more
relevant in today’s era. Between 2016 and 2019, National Human Rights Commission registered 2,008 cases where
minorities/Dalits were harassed, including cases of lynchings.
 Gandhi’s concept of decentralization of means and resources and his model of economic development
which talked of developing villages as an independent production and administrative unit has become more
relevant in order to save us from various economic, social, ethical and emotional hazards which are the
consequence of this large scale industrialization and have become silent killers of the human race.
 “Gram swaraj”, or village self-rule, was a pivotal concept in Gandhi's thinking .The fundamental concept of
Gram swaraj is that every village should be its own republic, "independent of its neighbours for its own vital
wants and yet interdependent for many others in which dependence is necessary,".
According to Gandhi each village should be basically self-reliant, making provision for all necessities of life - food,
clothing, clean water, sanitation, housing, education and so on, including government and self-defence, and all
socially useful amenities required by a community. In contemporary times this will help in reducing Rural-Urban
migration, promotion of Cottage Industries.
 Constitutional Provisions: By Following Gandhian principles we are further strengthening Local governments
since 73rd and 74th constitutional Amendments. There are DPSP’s which are directly inculcating the Gandhian
principles
 Article 40: Organization of village Panchayats
 Article 43: Promotion of cottage industries

 Article 46: Promotion and protection of interests of educational and economic interests of SCs, STs, and other
weaker sections of the society and to protect them from social injustice and exploitation
 Article 47: Prohibition of consumption of intoxicating drinks and drugs which are injurious to health
 Article 48: Prohibition of slaughter of cows, calves and other milch and draught cattle and to improve their
breeds.
 Emphasised on Sarvodaya (Upliftment of all) and Antodaya (Upliftment of those at the very end) as we all are
linked by the Golden chain – upliftment of all lies in upliftment of everyone.
At International Level
 Environment and Sustainable Development – He said “there is enough for everyone’s need, but not for
everybody’s greed”. Useful in the context of Materialism, depletion of resources and environmental degradation.
Several environmental movements were based on Gandhian philosophy of Non-violence such as Chipko, Silent
Valley, Narmada bachao etc. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations predict that by 2025,
1.8 billion people will have no water to drink. Coal – This is the most used fossil fuel and a non-renewable energy
source. Peak coal extraction is predicted between 2025 and 2048.
 Barack Obama, the former US President, sees Mahatma Gandhi as an inspiration and has a portrait of the
apostle of peace in his office. He commented, "In my life, I have always looked to Mahatma Gandhi as an inspiration,
because he embodies the kind of transformational change that can be made when ordinary people come together to do
extraordinary things."
 Aung San Suu Kyi, the Burmese leader who was under house arrest for many years, derived great deal of
inspiration from Gandhi.
 Global Issues such as Xenophobia – Fear of the other - can be tackled by Gandhi philosophy of religious tolerance
called ‘Sarvadharma sambhava’
Gandhian Philosophy: Loosing Relevance
 Gandhi ji was against capitalism – He called for promoting bread labour and enhancing dignity of labour. But in
today’s time of high end technology such as IOT and Robotics – individual labour is only limited to bottom rungs of
the society.
 Gandhi ji was against Industrialisation – He called for promotion of small household based cottage based
industry.
 Gandhi held Politics without religion as a sin – but today this thought process has become perverted and
religion with politics has gone against the essence of secularism. Here it needs to be noted that Gandhi ji view of
religion was that of spirituality that should underline political thought process.
 Further rise of tendencies of Instant gratification and conspicuous consumption in today’s generation is anti-
thesis of Gandhian thought process.
 Falling Value System – Means have become more important than ends.
Thus loosing relevance of Gandhian philosophy is limited only in the sense that practical fast paced life of today
doesn’t provide space to resort to high end philosophical thoughts of Gandhiji.
Further relevance is losing in the context that Society today is not been able to grasp the depth of his thought.
Adherence to which requires lot of moral strength and commitment.
Acknowledging which Governments over the years has been utilising Gandhian thoughts process in policy
making - Policies such as Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY), Apprenticeship Training Scheme (ATS),
Skill Development Initiative Scheme (SDIS), Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY),
National Urban Livelihoods Mission (NULM), Integrated Skill Development Scheme (ISDS) etc are working in
congruence with Gandhian vision of society and nation making

Conclusion
 Thus to discard the relevance of Gandhian thought is akin to disregarding the philosophy that formed the heart
and spirit of national freedom struggle that eventually lead our country to freedom and independence from the
foreign yoke.
 Hence, Gandhi and his thought process continue to remain relevant.
 Individuals as well as societies as a whole need to come together and re-ignite the ideals of Gandhiji – the father
of our nation.
 For that not only holds a key to national progress but also a key to world peace.
 As has been famously quoted by late former president Sri A P J Abdul Kalam -
“If there is righteousness in the heart, there will be beauty in the character.
If there is beauty in the character, there will be harmony in the home.
If there is harmony in the home, there will be order in the nations.
When there is order in the nations, there will peace in the world.”
3. Global Warming: Is it a race against time for humanity?
RELEVANT QUOTES
“Climate change is no longer some far-off problem; it is happening here, it is happening now”-Barak Obama
“Global warming threatens our health, our economy, our natural resources, and our children's future. It
is clear we must act.”-Eliot Spitzer
We are running out of time, we must have a planetary solution to a planetary crisis.-Al Gore
“If you really think that the environment is less important than the economy, try holding your breath while you
count your money.” — Guy McPherson
“The world will not be destroyed by those who do evil, but by those who watch them without doing anything.”
— Albert Einstein
“Climate change does not respect border; it does not respect who you are – rich and poor, small and big.
Therefore, this is what we call ‘global challenges,’ which require global solidarity.” – Ban Ki-moon
INTRODUCTION
Points to Ponder
 Coastal cities have inundated, farming regions are parched, ocean currents are disrupted, tropical diseases
spreading, glaciers are melting —an artificial greenhouse effect could generate countless tribulations. These are
not only expressions but a strong signal to the looming danger of Global warming which will endanger the
existence of Humans on the face of earth if not checked on time.
 Undoubtedly, Global warming is the greatest challenge our planet is facing. It has far-reaching impact on
biodiversity and climatic conditions of the planet. Putting in simple words, Global Warming is the increase of
Earth's average surface temperature due to effect of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide emissions from

burning fossil fuels or from deforestation, which trap heat that would otherwise escape from Earth. This is a type
of greenhouse effect.
 Global warming is the phenomenon of increasing average air temperatures near the surface of Earth over the
past one to two centuries. Since the mid-20th century, climate scientists have gathered detailed observations of
various weather phenomena (such as temperatures, precipitation, and storms) and of related influences on
climate (such as ocean currents and the atmosphere’s chemical composition). These data indicate that Earth’s
climate has changed over almost every conceivable timescale since the beginning of geologic time and that the
influence of human activities since at least the beginning of the Industrial Revolution has been deeply woven into
the very fabric of climate change.
How do we know climate change is real: Evidences
Points to Ponder
 Global Temperature Rise – The planet's average surface temperature has risen about 1.62 degrees Fahrenheit
(0.9 degrees Celsius) since the late 19th century, a change driven largely by increased carbon dioxide and other
human-made emissions into the atmosphere. Most of the warming occurred in the past 35 years, with the five
warmest years on record taking place since 2010.
 Warming Oceans – The oceans have absorbed much of this increased heat, with the top 700 meters (about 2,300
feet) of ocean showing warming of more than 0.4 degrees Fahrenheit since 1969.
 Shrinking Ice Sheets – The Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets have decreased in mass. Data from NASA's Gravity
Recovery and Climate Experiment show Greenland lost an average of 286 billion tons of ice per year between
1993 and 2016, while Antarctica lost about 127 billion tons of ice per year during the same time period. The rate of
Antarctica ice mass loss has tripled in the last decade.
 Glacial Retreat – Glaciers are retreating almost everywhere around the world — including in the Alps, Himalayas,
Andes, Rockies, Alaska and Africa.
 Decreased Snow Cover – Satellite observations reveal that the amount of spring snow cover in the Northern
Hemisphere has decreased over the past five decades and that the snow is melting earlier.
 Sea Level Rise – Global sea level rose about 8 inches in the last century. The rate in the last two decades, however,
is nearly double that of the last century and is accelerating slightly every year.
 Declining Arctic Sea Ice – Both the extent and thickness of Arctic sea ice has declined rapidly over the last several
decades.
 Extreme Events – The number of record high temperature events in the United States has been increasing, while
the number of record low temperature events has been decreasing, since 1950. The U.S. has also witnessed
increasing numbers of intense rainfall events.
 Ocean Acidification – Since the beginning of the Industrial Revolution, the acidity of surface ocean waters has
increased by about 30 percent. This increase is the result of humans emitting more carbon dioxide into the
atmosphere and hence more being absorbed into the oceans. The amount of carbon dioxide absorbed by the
upper layer of the oceans is increasing by about 2 billion tons per year.

Causes of Global Warming
Major Causes of Global

Warming
Natural Causes of Global Anthropogenic Causes of Global

Warming Warming
 Water Vapour  Deforestation

 Forest Blazes  Chlorofluorocarbon
 Volcanoes  Use of Vehicles
 Melting Permafrost  Industrial
Development
 Overpopulation/Pop
ulation Growth
 Agriculture
Natural Causes of Global Warming

 Water Vapour – Water vapour is a kind of greenhouse gas. Due to the increase in earth’s temperature more water
gets evaporated from the water bodies and stays in the atmosphere adding to global warming.
 Forest Blazes – Forest blazes or forest fires emit a large amount of carbon-containing smoke. These gases are
released into the atmosphere and increase the earth’s temperature resulting in global warming.
 Volcanoes – Volcanoes are one of the largest natural contributors to global warming. The ash and smoke emitted
during volcanic eruptions goes out into the atmosphere and affects the climate.
 Melting Permafrost – Permafrost is there where glaciers are present. It is a frozen soil that has environmental
gases trapped in it for several years. As the permafrost melts, it releases the gases back into the atmosphere
increasing the earth’s temperature.
Man-made Causes of Global Warming
 Deforestation – Plants are the main source of oxygen. They take in carbon dioxide and release oxygen thereby
maintaining environmental balance. The forests are being depleted for many domestic and commercial purposes.
This has led to an environmental imbalance thereby giving rise to global warming.
 Use of Vehicles – The use of vehicles even for very short distances results into various gaseous emissions.
Vehicles burn fossil fuels which emit a large amount of carbon dioxide and other toxins into the atmosphere
resulting in a temperature increase.
 Chlorofluorocarbon – With the excessive use of air conditioners and refrigerators, humans have been adding
CFCs into the environment which affects the atmospheric ozone layer. The ozone layer protects the earth surface
from the harmful ultraviolet rays emitted by the sun. The CFCs has led to ozone layer depletion making way for
the ultraviolet rays, thereby increasing the temperature of the earth.
 Industrial Development – With the advent of industrialization, the temperature of the earth has been increasing
rapidly. The harmful emissions from the factories add to the increasing temperature of the earth.
 In 2013, the Intergovernmental Panel for Climate Change reported that the increase in the global temperature
between 1880 and 2012 has been 0.9 degrees Celsius. The increase is 1.1 degrees Celsius when compared to the
preindustrial mean temperature.
 Overpopulation – Increase in population means more people breathing. This leads to an increase in the level of
carbon dioxide, the primary gas causing global warming, in the atmosphere.

 Agriculture – Various farming activities produce carbon dioxide and methane gas. These add to the greenhouse
gases in the atmosphere and increase the temperature of the earth.
 As an individual – Excessive materialism
 Society – having low awareness, Lack of community based initiatives, competition for exploitation of natural
resources, Lack of social Sanction. e.g. Delhi-NCR region (Narrow gains prevail over greater responsibility
 Global Level – Back out from Kyoto Commitments, Lack of Binding commitments under Paris climate deal, No
plan of action for assisting developing countries and LDC’s.
 Renewable energy – Share of coal based energy in the energy-mix is going to increase as per NITI Aayog and
CEC’s Report. It raises questions if we are really serious to act! Do we have luxury of time?
Effects of Global Warming
 On biodiversity – The increase of temperatures and the climate upheavals disturb the ecosystems; modify the
conditions and cycles of plant reproduction. The scarcity of resources and climate change are changing life habits
and migratory cycles of animals. We are already witnessing the disappearance of many species - including
endemic species - or, conversely, the intrusion of invasive species that threaten crops and other animals.
 Global warming therefore impacts biodiversity – It is the balance of biodiversity that is modified and
threatened. According to the IPCC, a 1.5°C (2.7°F) average rise might put 20-30% of species at risk of extinction. If
the planet warms by more than 2°C, most ecosystems will struggle.
 On oceans – Because of global warming, permafrost and ice are melting massively at the poles, increasing the sea
level at a rate never known before. In a century, the increase reaches 18 cm (including 6 cm in the last 20 years).
The worst case scenario is a rise of up to 1m by 2100.
 The acidification of the oceans is also of great concern. In fact, the large amount of CO2 captured by the
oceans makes them more acidic, arousing serious questions about the adaptability of seashells or coral reefs.
 On humans – Human beings are not spared by these upheavals. Climate change is affecting the global economy.
It is already shaking up social, health and geopolitical balances in many parts of the world. The scarcity of
resources like food and energy gives rise to new conflicts. New tropical Diseases such as Ebola, Swine flu etc.
Micro-organisms are mutation as fast as technology to eliminate them.
 Rising sea levels and floods are causing population migration. Small island states are in the front line. The
estimated number of climate refugees by 2050 is 250 million people.
 On the weather – For decades now, meteorologists and climatologists around the world have been watching the
effects of global warming on the weather phenomena. And the impact is huge: more droughts and heatwaves,
more precipitations, more natural disasters like floods, hurricanes, storms and wildfires, frost-free season, etc.
 On Economy – Food preservation cost increased, Fluctuation in Industrial Production due to Crop production
Uncertainties.
In Indian context, the impact of global warming is a matter of grave concern. As is well known, India is mainly an
agricultural country and agriculture here is gamble of the monsoon, e.g. largely depending on rainfall. Though it is to
affect the whole country, the worst likely impact would be on central and northern India which is high-yielding parts of
the country. These are the regions which produce the largest agricultural yield. The rise in atmospheric temperature
and fall in rain would naturally result in decline in crop production thus posing a serious threat to the food security
position in India. If the process of global warming continues to increase, resulting climatic disasters would cause a
decrease in India's GDP to decline by about 9%, with a decrease by 40% of the production of the major crops. A

temperature increase of 2° C in India is projected to displace seven million people, with a submersion of the major
cities of India like Mumbai and Chennai. Moreover, it would have great effect on biodiversity as well.
What can be done to Stop Global Warming?
There is no single solution to global warming, which is primarily a problem of too much heat-trapping carbon dioxide,
methane and nitrous oxide in the atmosphere. The technologies and approaches outlined below are all needed to
bring down the emissions of these gases by at least 80 percent by mid-century.
 Renewable energies – The first way to prevent climate change is to move away from fossil fuels. What are the
alternatives? Renewable energies like solar, wind, biomass and geothermal.
 Energy & water efficiency – Producing clean energy is essential, but reducing our consumption of energy and
water by using more efficient devices (e.g. LED light bulbs, innovative shower system) is less costly and equally
important.
 Sustainable transportation – Promoting public transportation, carpooling, but also electric and hydrogen
mobility, can definitely help reduce CO2 emissions and thus fight global warming.
 Sustainable infrastructure – In order to reduce the CO2 emissions from buildings - caused by heating, air
conditioning, hot water or lighting - it is necessary both to build new low energy buildings, and to renovate the
existing constructions.
 Sustainable agriculture & forest management – Encouraging better use of natural resources, stopping massive
deforestation as well as making agriculture greener and more efficient should also be a priority.
 Responsible consumption & recycling – Adopting responsible consumption habits is crucial, be it regarding food
(particularly meat), clothing, cosmetics or cleaning products. Last but not least, recycling is an absolute necessity
for dealing with waste.
Conclusion
 To conclude we can say, Global warming is mainly due to the ignorance of the people and the 'don't care attitude'
of few. Even at a younger stage, it is wiser to educate the children to be efficient consumers and be responsible
users of energy and resources remembering that the global warming is slowly destroying the earth and its natural
habitat. People should be reminded that they share the earth and its resources with the other species that keep
the ecosystem balanced, if the balance is gone then the life if every single species is threatened and even humans
will not be spared from this.
 Media can play a role in educating the people of the phenomenon of global warming that has already taking a
huge toll. This won't disappear overnight. As we thoughtfully practice ways of preventing the causes that causes
global warming one day the earth will be restored.
 The broad agreement among climate scientists that global temperatures will continue to increase has led nations,
states, corporations and individuals to implement actions to try to curtail global warming or adjust to it. Many
environmental groups encourage action against global warming, often by the consumer, but also by community
and regional organizations.
 There has also been business action on climate change, including efforts at increased energy efficiency and (still
limited) moves to alternative fuels. One important innovation has been the development of greenhouse gas
emissions trading through which companies, in conjunction with government, agree to cap their emissions or to
purchase credits from those below their allowances.
Still more efforts are needed at every level i.e. individual, business houses, society and nations. We are losing the race
against climate change as of now, but we should win the race for sake of future of Humanity.

4. Geography may remain the same, history need not.
Relevant Quotes
“A small body of determined spirits fired by an unquenchable faith in their mission can alter the course of
history-Mahatma Gandhi
“I am neither Athenian nor Greek, but a citizen of the world”-Socrates
“Revolutions are the locomotives of History”-Karl Marx
INTRODUCTION
Points to Ponder
 Geography is the study of places and the relationships between people and their environments. Geological
factors give shape to geography and it takes millions of years, hence geography of the place and its location
remains same for generations of humans. For e.g. emergence of today’s continent from Pangaea which existed
300 million years ago. Islands still move, mountains still rise but overall topography and location remains same.
Natural climate change also takes thousands of years. Forest stand for thousands of years, replaced by new.
 On the other side, History is dynamic as it has regularly changed with human interventions for e.g. invasions,
explorations, rise and fall of empires, discovery of new land masses and human incursions, colonisation, slavery,
freedom, emergence of new countries, human migration, changes in administration, economy, culture,
environment etc. And this dynamism in Human History has happened on the landmasses which have remained
same for many million years.
 Geography has no borders but history creates them, erases them and draws them again with the ink of time.
Geography defines a place with physical characteristics that remain the same for millions of years while history
defines the politics of the place which changes with generations and civilizations. Geography provides a country
with neighbours; history is what makes them partners, allies or enemies.
 India and Pakistan, as Atal Bihari Vajpayee remarked famously in 1998, can alter their history, but not their
geography. That sentiment has been voiced by other Indian and Pakistani leaders since. It is born of the wisdom
that enmity between two countries with a shared boundary can only take both along a mutually undermining path
and there must be a commitment to finding peace and cooperation. Only sustained engagement over the long
term can bring these. Such engagement is possible only when both sides stop treating every episode as a make-
or-break event.
Body of Essay
Points to Ponder
Human is the only creature on earth for whom, history matters and it keeps changing with respect to time as well as
with respect to person to person. Indian sub-continent has gone through very contrasting change. During ancient time
Indian sub-continent was marred with rivalry, anarchy, war and violence and class system. By 20th century same sub-
continent had been victim of colonialism. While by 21st century, India becomes a symbol of democracy, equality and
rule of law.
What are causes of dynamism of history?
“We are not makers of history; we are made by history."
 The above quote by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr points towards the dynamicity of history alongside the reality of
geography. That comes to the fore when the world events of last few decades are recalled. Indian subcontinent
here provides an apt example, where a single identity has been referred to as India by Greeks, Hindustan by

Persians and Bharat by its natives. Stretched from Sulaiman to Chittagong. It has over ages gotten divided into
three different historical units. History of this region has changed for worse, from culture of brotherhood to
bloodshed, from love to hatred, the dreaded partition and following wars. Isn't that embodiment of fact that
though geography remains the same, but history need not.
 Further, history is shaped by different factors like Environment, Economy, Politics, Social, International relations
etc.
History shaped by Social view/Norms
 Women- during the British rule, a number of changes were made in the economic and social structures of our
society. Though the quality of life of women during this period remained more or less the same, some substantial
progress was achieved in eliminating inequalities between men and women in education, employment, social
right and so on. Some social evils such as child marriage, sati system, devadasi system, purdah system, prohibition
of widow remarriage etc., which were a great hurdle in the path of women’s progress were either controlled or
removed by suitable legislations.
Social reformers with patriotic spirit on the one hand and the British Government on the other together took
several measures to improve the status of women and to remove some of their disabilities. With the help of these
changes, exploitation of women, to a great extent was reduced. More freedom and better orientation were
provided to the women’s organisation to pursue their interest.
 Transgender Rights - Transgender have been given several rights in modern times.
For e.g. Government of Tamil Nadu have given them reservation in jobs.
 ST/SC atrocities - Untouchables were oppressed in ancient times but now they have several laws for their
protection.
History shaped by Politics
 India Pakistan relation- It has changed from time to time based on the government on the both side.
 Two World Wars – During world war the world was divided into two major blocks. But later it was realized by all
the major world powers that world is a global village and it’s better to co-operate with each other for peaceful
existence.
 Brexit – Expected to bring drastic changes in the dynamics of Europe.
History shaped by economy
 Urbanization of Harappan civilization - The rise of towns in the Indus zone was based on agricultural surplus,
the making of bronze tools, various other crafts, and widespread trade and commerce. This is known as the
first urbanization in India. Today we have improved upon it. We are much more advanced currently.
 Colonialism - Almost half of the world was colonialised by European powers for economic exploitation. But today
all embraces Democracy, Trade rules and Rule of Law.
The change is good
“The Only Thing That Is Constant Is Change -” Heraclitus
 Change helps us grow. Changes often force us to adapt in ways we have never experienced, which can be a
major driver of our growth and development. If we are rigid about everything in our life, things will stay the same
and ultimately will stagnate and die.
 Change teaches us to be flexible. Change is necessary in life. We should not let the tradition paralyze our mind.
We should be receptive to new ideas. We should be progressive in everything we do.
 People usually don’t realize this but it takes much more energy and effort to resist change than it does to accept
it. It’s much easier to embrace change than to fight it.
 Change is opportunity. Opportunities are plentiful. When we look back on your life, all of the really amazing
things are because of a new experience we had. Status quo gets us nowhere.

 Most of the people are afraid of change because it forces them outside their comfort zone.
They want to bring great changes but they are too afraid to adapt their new things and hence they oppose the
change and crawl back. People that get things done in this world don't wait for the spirit to move them, they move
the spirit.
Thus change is neither alone good nor alone bad. It’s a mixed bag.
It becomes bad at a time when a single drop of blood get shed not in the process of occurrence of change but in the
outcome. Historical changes in the confinement of geography were good when they improved the condition of
women or the so called invincible like blacks of America or untouchables of India. They were good when there aim
was to make society think on reason or to make nation look to democracy and equality to solve the plethora of
problems facing it. But they were bad when they were aspired for creating space for their own on the basis needs of
others.
Conclusion
Though geographical factors were remaining same or not and the history was always in the flux of change, yet it’s the
mankind that has to bear the brunt or heap the accolades for all these changes.
It teaches us the significance of very fact that human kind is like a thread joining all the pearls of this great interplay of
factors affecting it. This was even recognized from age long as an ancient saying is “history is the best teacher”.
At last as John F. Kennedy puts it up -
“Geography has made us neighbours. History has made us friends.
Economics has made us partners, and necessity has made us allies.
Those whom God has so joined together, let no man put asunder.”
TESTS SCHEDULE
LEVEL1
RELEASE DATE
TEST SYLLABUS
(For test & test discussion videos)
MT(GS)-1 Physical Geography of India & the World 13/10/19
MT(GS)-2 Economic Geography of Indian & the World 20/10/19
Environment, Ecology, Biodiversity, Climate Change&
MT(GS)-3 03/11/19
Disaster Management
MT(GS)-4 Indian Culture 10/11/19
MT(GS)-5 Modern History 17/11/19
MT(GS)-6 Post – Independence History + World History 24/11/19
MT(Essay)-1 Essay (Themes from Geography & History) 25/11/19
MT(GS)-7 Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude -1 01/12/19
MT(GS)-8 Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude -2 08/12/19
MT(GS)-9 Ethics in Governance – Case Studies 15/12/19
MT(GS)-10 Indian Polity & Governance -1 22/12/19
MT(GS)-11 Indian Polity & Governance – 2 29/12/19
MT(Essay)-2 Essay (Themes from Polity and Ethics) 05/01/20
MT(GS)-12 Indian Society and Social Justice 12/01/20
MT(GS)-13 S&T 19/01/20
MT(GS)-14 International Relations& Internal Security 27/01/20
MT(Essay)-3 Essay (Themes from Indian Society and IR) 02/02/20
MT(GS)-15 Economic Development– 1 09/02/20

MT(GS)-16 Economic Development– 2 16/02/20

MT(Essay)-4 Essay (Themes from Economy and S&T) 23/02/20
LEVEL2
RELEASE DATE
TEST SYLLABUS
(For test & test discussion videos)
Geography + Environment, Ecology, Biodiversity + Disaster
ST(GS)-1 28/06/20
Management (GS Paper-1+3)
History - Culture, Modern, Post-Independence & World
ST(GS)-2 05/07/20
History(GS Paper-1)
ST(GS)-3 Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude - Theory & Case Studies(GS Paper - 4) 12/07/20
ST(GS)-4 Indian Polity & Governance(GS Paper-2) 19/07/20
ST(GS)-5 Indian Society & Social Justice+ S&T(GS Paper-1+2) 26/07/20
International Relations& Internal Security
ST(GS)-6 02/08/20
(GS Paper-2+3)
ST(GS)-7 Economic Development(GS Paper-3) 09/08/20
LEVEL 3
TEST DATE
TEST SYLLABUS (For test & test discussion TEST TIME
videos)
FLT (Essay)- 1 Essay 16/08/20 9 am – 12 pm
FLT(GS) – 1 GS – 1 (Full Syllabus) 23/08/20 9 am – 12 pm
FLT(GS) – 2 GS – 2 (Full Syllabus) 23/08/20 2 pm – 5 pm
FLT(GS) – 3 GS – 3 (Full Syllabus) 29/08/20 9 am – 12 pm
FLT(GS) – 4 GS – 4 (Full Syllabus) 29/08/20 2 pm – 5 pm
FLT(GS) – 5 GS – 1(Full Syllabus) 30/08/20 9 am – 12 pm
FLT(GS) – 6 GS – 2(Full Syllabus) 30/08/20 2 pm – 5 pm
FLT(GS) – 7 GS – 3(Full Syllabus) 05/09/20 9 am – 12 pm
FLT(GS) – 8 GS – 4(Full Syllabus) 05/09/20 2 pm – 5 pm
FLT (Essay)- 2 Essay 06/09/20 9 am – 12 pm

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MAINS TEST

Themes from Geography & History

TEST NO.: QIP-MTS-20/MT(Essay)-1

History gives lessons. Lessons of history are valuable; provide insight,

QIP-MTS-20/MT(Essay)-1/RAU’S IAS TEST SERIES 1 P.T.O.

QIP-MTS-20/MT(Essay)-1/RAU’S IAS TEST SERIES 2 P.T.O.

impact of government policies towards improving different sectors of

QIP-MTS-20/MT(Essay)-1/RAU’S IAS TEST SERIES 3 P.T.O.

from their implementation issues are identified and properly addressed

QIP-MTS-20/MT(Essay)-1/RAU’S IAS TEST SERIES 4 P.T.O.

2. Relevance of Mahatma Gandhi in current times. (1198 Words) 125

QIP-MTS-20/MT(Essay)-1/RAU’S IAS TEST SERIES 5 P.T.O.

QIP-MTS-20/MT(Essay)-1/RAU’S IAS TEST SERIES 6 P.T.O.

humanity: wealth without Work, pleasure without conscience;

QIP-MTS-20/MT(Essay)-1/RAU’S IAS TEST SERIES 7 P.T.O.

classless, inclusive society where everyone is treated equally. Gandhi

QIP-MTS-20/MT(Essay)-1/RAU’S IAS TEST SERIES 8 P.T.O.

Global warming is one of the greatest challenges before humanity. It is

QIP-MTS-20/MT(Essay)-1/RAU’S IAS TEST SERIES 9 P.T.O.

energy; resilient infrastructures and cities; sustainable agriculture, forests

QIP-MTS-20/MT(Essay)-1/RAU’S IAS TEST SERIES 10 P.T.O.

QIP-MTS-20/MT(Essay)-1/RAU’S IAS TEST SERIES 11 P.T.O.

climate protection to 4 billion euros. Large investment and insurance

QIP-MTS-20/MT(Essay)-1/RAU’S IAS TEST SERIES 12 P.T.O.

Geography may become a permanent feature of a nation, bounded by

QIP-MTS-20/MT(Essay)-1/RAU’S IAS TEST SERIES 13 P.T.O.

erstwhile USSR in 1991. These geographical realities must be kept in view

QIP-MTS-20/MT(Essay)-1/RAU’S IAS TEST SERIES 14 P.T.O.

Being the largest country in South Asia in geographical area and

QIP-MTS-20/MT(Essay)-1/RAU’S IAS TEST SERIES 15 P.T.O.

QIP-MTS-20/MT(Essay)-1/RAU’S IAS TEST SERIES 16 P.T.O.

ADDITIONAL CONTENT FOR CONCEPTUAL CLARITY AND RELATED INFORMATION

QIP-MTS-20/MT(Essay)-1/RAU’S IAS TEST SERIES 18 P.T.O.

ADDITIONAL CONTENT FOR CONCEPTUAL CLARITY AND RELATED INFORMATION

QIP-MTS-20/MT(Essay)-1/RAU’S IAS TEST SERIES 19 P.T.O.

ADDITIONAL CONTENT FOR CONCEPTUAL CLARITY AND RELATED INFORMATION

Area of learning Examples from History Actions undertaken or can be undertaken

2. Relevance of Mahatma Gandhi in Current Times

QIP-MTS-20/MT(Essay)-1/RAU’S IAS TEST SERIES 20 P.T.O.

ADDITIONAL CONTENT FOR CONCEPTUAL CLARITY AND RELATED INFORMATION

QIP-MTS-20/MT(Essay)-1/RAU’S IAS TEST SERIES 21 P.T.O.

ADDITIONAL CONTENT FOR CONCEPTUAL CLARITY AND RELATED INFORMATION

QIP-MTS-20/MT(Essay)-1/RAU’S IAS TEST SERIES 22 P.T.O.

ADDITIONAL CONTENT FOR CONCEPTUAL CLARITY AND RELATED INFORMATION

QIP-MTS-20/MT(Essay)-1/RAU’S IAS TEST SERIES 23 P.T.O.

ADDITIONAL CONTENT FOR CONCEPTUAL CLARITY AND RELATED INFORMATION

3. Global Warming: Is it a race against time for humanity?

QIP-MTS-20/MT(Essay)-1/RAU’S IAS TEST SERIES 24 P.T.O.

ADDITIONAL CONTENT FOR CONCEPTUAL CLARITY AND RELATED INFORMATION

QIP-MTS-20/MT(Essay)-1/RAU’S IAS TEST SERIES 25 P.T.O.

ADDITIONAL CONTENT FOR CONCEPTUAL CLARITY AND RELATED INFORMATION

Causes of Global Warming

Major Causes of Global

Natural Causes of Global Anthropogenic Causes of Global

 Water Vapour  Deforestation

Natural Causes of Global Warming

QIP-MTS-20/MT(Essay)-1/RAU’S IAS TEST SERIES 26 P.T.O.

ADDITIONAL CONTENT FOR CONCEPTUAL CLARITY AND RELATED INFORMATION

QIP-MTS-20/MT(Essay)-1/RAU’S IAS TEST SERIES 27 P.T.O.

ADDITIONAL CONTENT FOR CONCEPTUAL CLARITY AND RELATED INFORMATION

QIP-MTS-20/MT(Essay)-1/RAU’S IAS TEST SERIES 28 P.T.O.

ADDITIONAL CONTENT FOR CONCEPTUAL CLARITY AND RELATED INFORMATION

4. Geography may remain the same, history need not.