Mains Answer Writing - 3 Mar, 2026

GS2

International Relations

15 marks

“The shift from deterrence to decapitation strategies increases the risk of prolonged instability.” Comment in the context of the Iran conflict.

1️⃣ Define and Contextualise: Briefly explain deterrence (preventive signalling) vs decapitation (leadership removal), and mention that the Iran strikes marked a shift toward targeting top leadership.
2️⃣ Explain Escalation Logic: Argue that decapitation can fragment command structures, provoke retaliation, and reduce chances of controlled escalation — increasing unpredictability.
3️⃣ Highlight Prolonged Instability: Show how leadership removal may trigger power struggles, proxy escalation, and wider regional involvement — making diplomatic resolution harder and instability longer-lasting.

9/15

Topper’s Answer Sheet

With detailed evaluation

More Challenges

GS2
Indian Polity
13 Aug, 2026
The FCRA Amendment Bill, 2026 seeks to strengthen state oversight over foreign-funded organisations while raising concerns about civil society autonomy. Critically examine.
View Challenge
GS3
Economy
Yesterday
The next phase of India's MSME growth lies not merely in creating more enterprises, but in clustering them. Examine how a cluster-based approach can enhance the productivity and global competitiveness of Indian MSMEs.
View Challenge
GS2
Social Justice
11 Aug, 2026
The demand for Scheduled Caste status for Dalit Christians raises complex questions of caste discrimination, religious freedom and affirmative action. Critically examine the constitutional and socio-legal dimensions of this debate.
View Challenge