Mains Answer Writing - 10 Jan, 2026
GS3
Environment & Ecology
15 marks
“The debate over conservation of the Western Ghats reflects the tension between ecological sustainability and developmental priorities.”
In this context, critically examine the recommendations of the Western Ghats Expert Ecology Panel (WGEEP) and the Kasturirangan Committee, highlighting their implications for environmental governance in India.
Tips for your answer
- Structure the answer as a comparison, not a description
- Briefly outline the philosophical difference between the two panels—WGEEP’s precautionary, bottom-up, ecocentric approach versus Kasturirangan Committee’s pragmatic, development-accommodative, technocratic approach—and use this contrast throughout the answer.
- Link recommendations to governance outcomes
- Go beyond listing restrictions. Explicitly discuss how WGEEP strengthens decentralized environmental governance (ESA zoning, local participation, proposed WGEA), while the Kasturirangan model reflects centralized, dilution-prone regulation, highlighting implications for federalism, compliance, and implementation.
- Conclude with a balanced way forward
- Avoid taking sides. Conclude by suggesting a hybrid governance model—scientific zoning + local consent + livelihood safeguards—showing how ecological sustainability and development can be reconciled in India’s environmental policymaking.
More Challenges
View All- View Challenge
GS3
Environment & Ecology
21 Apr, 2026
“The crisis of the Colorado River reflects a shift from hydrological scarcity to ecological water loss.”
Discuss the geographical features of the Colorado River system and critically examine the role of climate change and ecological processes in altering river flows. - View Challenge
GS2
Indian Polity
Yesterday
“India’s migration governance remains reactive and fragmented rather than continuous and worker-centric.”
Discuss the key challenges in India’s migration governance architecture. Suggest measures to build a comprehensive and resilient migration management system. - View Challenge
GS2
Indian Polity
19 Apr, 2026
Custodial deaths reflect deeper structural issues in India’s policing system.
Discuss the causes of custodial violence and suggest measures to ensure accountability and protection of human rights.
Master Answer Writingfor UPSC Mains
Join thousands of aspirants mastering answer writing with daily challenges, instant AI evaluation, and topper copies
