Discuss the advantages of the Agnipath scheme? What can be done to address the concerns raised by critics?

The Agnipath initiative is the Government of India’s new recruiting scheme for enrolling new troops in the three wings of the defense forces. Recruits for the programme will be referred to as “Agniveers.” Up to 50,000 troops will be enlisted ..

Topics: GS-III: Various Security Forces and Agencies and Their Mandate

What are the historical and emerging challenges in the fight against terrorism? In view of India’s upcoming UNSC Presidency, examine the possible areas of action to boost international anti-terror efforts?

The UN Security Council’s Counter-Terrorism Committee recently held a special meeting in India (CTC).  It addressed the overriding issue of “countering the exploitation of new and developing technology for terrorist goals.”  Additionally, the panel covered the use of drones in ..

Topics: GS-III: Role of External State and Non State Actors in Creating Challenges to Internal Security • GS-III: Role of Media and Social Networking Sites in Internal Security Challenges

What are the shortcomings of higher education in India? Suggest some solutions.

Only 15 higher education institutions from India are in the top 1,000, despite the country having the biggest number of universities in the world—more than 900 in total.Current status of higher education in India:With 580 million individuals between the ages ..

Topics: GS-II: Social Sector Services Education Human Resources

Why is the first 1,000 days of life significant for a child’s development? How can the frontline workers, like the ASHAs, help deliver necessary interventions during this crucial time period?

The most effective set of measures for decreasing child mortality, avoiding malnutrition, and determining cognitive development is optimal maternal nutrition and child feeding.Status of Child health in India:The National Family Health Survey-5 (NFHS-5) report raises concerns about child nutrition. 36% of ..

Topics: GS-II: Social Sector Services Health

What are the advantages and challenges associated with the introduction of Sovereign Green Bonds?

Recently, the Union Minister for Finance & Corporate Affairs has approved the final Sovereign Green Bonds Framework of India. Sovereign Green Bonds will be issued for mobilizing resources for green projects.Advantages:The Framework follows in the footsteps of India’s pledges under ..

Topics: GS-III: Conservation Environmental Pollution Degradation • GS-III: Economic Growth Development

Given the looming climate emergency threatening the developing world, discuss the ways in which RBI can help regulate climate risk.

The possibility of irreversible negative effects from climate change, some of which the world is already experiencing, looms large. The RBI’s Discussion Paper on Climate Risk and Sustainable Finance examines the impact of climate change on the financial sector.Link between ..

Topics: GS-III: Conservation Environmental Pollution Degradation • GS-III: Economic Growth Development • GS-III: Environmental Impact Assessment