Mains Answer Writing - 11 Jan, 2026
GS3
Science & Technology
15 marks
“Despite the availability of cost-effective preventive interventions, India continues to report a high burden of neural tube defects such as Spina Bifida.”
In this context, examine the role of pre-conceptional folic acid supplementation and food fortification in preventing Spina Bifida in India. Discuss the challenges in implementation and suggest policy measures to address them.
Tips for your answer
- Begin with data-backed context
- Start with India’s high prevalence of Spina Bifida (around 4 per 1,000 births) versus global best practices (<1 per 1,000) to immediately establish the problem and its policy relevance.
- Link prevention tools to public health policy
- Clearly explain why pre-conceptional folic acid supplementation and food fortification (salt/tea staples) are more cost-effective than treatment, and connect this to preventive healthcare and SDG-3.
- Focus on implementation gaps and solutions
- Highlight gaps such as low awareness, absence of mandatory fortification, and weak inter-ministerial coordination, then suggest actionable measures like national campaigns, mandatory fortification, and integration with RMNCH+A programs.
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GS3
Environment & Ecology
Yesterday
“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. - View Challenge
GS3
Economy
9 Jan, 2026
“The introduction of Public–Private Partnership (PPP) model medical colleges in tribal districts marks a shift in India’s approach to healthcare capacity building.”
In this context, examine the rationale behind adopting the PPP model for medical education in tribal regions. Discuss its potential benefits and challenges in ensuring equity, quality of healthcare delivery, and public accountability. - View Challenge
GS1
Physical Geography
8 Jan, 2026
“Bomb cyclones represent a class of rapidly intensifying mid-latitude storms with multi-hazard impacts.”
In this context, explain the phenomenon of bomb cyclones and examine their implications for disaster preparedness and infrastructure resilience in a changing climate.
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