GS3
Internal Security
15 marks
"Recent protests in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Gilgit-Baltistan highlight the challenges of governance, political representation, and resource distribution in Pakistan-administered regions of the former princely state of Jammu & Kashmir." Discuss. Also examine the strategic significance of these developments for India.
Recent protests in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Gilgit-Baltistan have brought attention to long-standing grievances related to economic deprivation, political marginalization, and uneven development. These developments reveal structural governance challenges in Pakistan-administered territories of the erstwhile Jammu and Kashmir.
Governance and Resource Distribution Challenges Residents of PoK have protested against rising electricity tariffs and shortages of subsidized wheat despite hosting the Mangla Dam, a major hydropower project. Locals allege inadequate compensation and displacement resulting from infrastructure projects without meaningful public consultation. Gilgit-Baltistan continues to face underdevelopment despite its strategic importance and location along major connectivity corridors. These issues reflect a disconnect between resource generation and local welfare benefits. Political Representation Concerns The controversy surrounding reserved seats in the PoK Assembly has intensified demands for greater democratic accountability. Critics argue that externally elected reserved members enhance federal influence over local politics. In Gilgit-Baltistan, demands for greater constitutional rights and political representation remain unresolved. Pakistan’s reluctance to grant full provincial status to Gilgit-Baltistan, owing to the Kashmir dispute, has further fueled dissatisfaction. Strategic Significance for India India maintains that PoK and Gilgit-Baltistan are integral parts of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The passage of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) through Gilgit-Baltistan raises concerns regarding sovereignty and territorial integrity. Protests highlight governance deficits and strengthen India's position regarding the rights and welfare of people living in these regions. Continued instability in these areas has implications for regional security and cross-border geopolitics. Conclusion
The protests in PoK and Gilgit-Baltistan reflect deeper issues of democratic representation, equitable development, and resource justice. Addressing these concerns is essential for long-term stability, while the developments continue to carry significant strategic and diplomatic implications for India.
GS2
Governance
27 Jul, 2026
India's examination system is due for structural reforms to meet the demands of a knowledge-driven economy. Examine the key challenges in the existing examination system and discuss how technology-driven reforms can improve its credibility, inclusiveness and effectiveness.
GS3
Economy
Yesterday
The global race for Artificial Intelligence is reshaping the semiconductor industry and increasing the cost of electronics worldwide. Examine the economic implications of rising chip prices for India. Suggest measures to strengthen India's semiconductor ecosystem.
GS3
Disaster Management
25 Jul, 2026
Recurring floods in India are increasingly becoming a consequence of developmental and governance failures rather than natural phenomena alone. Examine this statement in the light of the recent Assam floods. Suggest measures for building long-term flood resilience.
Join thousands of aspirants mastering answer writing with daily challenges, instant AI evaluation, and topper copies