Q.Why is India taking keen interest in the Arctic region? (150 Words, 10 Marks)
How to approach: Identify every sub-question in the prompt, allocate dedicated sub-headings to each part, substantiate points with examples/data, and conclude with a forward-looking Way Forward.
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Open in 3D PYQ RealmSyllabus Point
- Salient features of World’s Physical Geography.
Approach
- Introduction (30-40 words): Introduce India's strategic and scientific interest in the Arctic.
- Body (170-180 words):
- Discuss key reasons for India's interest (climate, resources, shipping, geopolitics).
- Outline India's recent initiatives in the region.
- Conclusion (30-40 words): Reiterate India's commitment to sustainable Arctic engagement.
Introduction
India's engagement with the Arctic region is driven by a combination of scientific curiosity, environmental concerns, and strategic economic interests. As climate change accelerates ice melt, the Arctic has emerged as a critical arena for global geopolitics, resource exploration, and climate research.
Body
Reasons for India's Interest in the Arctic Region
- Climate Change Links: Arctic warming directly influences global weather patterns, including the intensity and predictability of the Indian monsoon. Research at India's Himadri Station in Svalbard, Norway, focuses on these atmospheric connections.
- Global Climate Diplomacy: Active Arctic research strengthens India's voice in international climate negotiations and global environmental governance.
- Energy and Mineral Security: The Arctic holds massive untapped resources, including an estimated 90 billion barrels of undiscovered oil (USGS) and rare earth minerals, vital for India's green energy transition.
- New Maritime Routes: The opening of the Northern Sea Route (NSR) due to ice melt can reduce shipping distances between Asia and Europe by up to 40%, offering significant trade advantages.
- Geopolitical Balancing: India seeks to maintain a strategic presence in the region to balance the growing influence of other major powers like China and Russia.
- Scientific Collaboration: The National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) leads research on Arctic biodiversity and glaciology. India has also been an observer on the Arctic Council since 2013.
- Food and Water Security: Changes in the Arctic affect ocean currents, altering marine ecosystems and fisheries, which indirectly impact India's food security.
Recent Steps by India
- India's Arctic Policy (2022): A comprehensive framework focusing on science and research, economic cooperation, and capacity building.
- Himadri Research Station: India's dedicated research base in Svalbard, Norway, active since 2008.
- Bilateral & Multilateral Ties: Strengthening partnerships with Arctic nations like Russia and Norway.
- Polar Expeditions: Regular scientific missions organized by NCPOR to study polar dynamics.
Conclusion
India's interest in the Arctic successfully balances scientific research with strategic economic goals, ensuring that resource exploration aligns with global climate action and sustainable development.
Question Specifications, Marking Rubric & Syllabus Mapping
| Examination & Year | UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination 2018 (Question 2) |
|---|---|
| Paper & Syllabus Topic | General Studies Paper I — Heritage, History, Society & Geography → Physical, Human & Indian Geography |
| Marks, Word Limit & Ideal Time | 10 Marks • 150 Words • Ideal Writing Time: 7–8 Minutes |
| Directive Word & Core Demand | Analytical / Multi-Dimensional: Address all explicit sub-parts of the question with balanced arguments, factual illustrations, and a solution-oriented conclusion. |
| Recommended Structure Split | Intro: ~20–25 Words • Body: ~100 Words (3–4 dimensions) • Conclusion: ~20–25 Words |
| AI Practice & Evaluation Tools | Upload Handwritten Answer for 3-Min Vision AI Evaluation | Generate Custom Answer & Mind Map |
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Frequently Asked Questions — UPSC Mains 2018 GS1 (Geography)
How should I structure the answer for this UPSC Mains 2018 GS Paper I question on Geography?
This 2018 GS Paper I question carries 10 marks with a 150-word limit and uses the "Analytical / Multi-Dimensional" directive. Identify every sub-question in the prompt, allocate dedicated sub-headings to each part, substantiate points with examples/data, and conclude with a forward-looking Way Forward. Follow the ideal word split (Intro: ~20–25 Words • Body: ~100 Words (3–4 dimensions) • Conclusion: ~20–25 Words) and aim to finish within 7–8 Minutes.
Which UPSC Mains syllabus topic does this 2018 question belong to?
This question is part of General Studies Paper I — Heritage, History, Society & Geography under the syllabus module "Physical, Human & Indian Geography". You can explore all repeated questions from Geography in Acme AI's 3D PYQ Realm or filter all Geography PYQs on the Mains PYQ Directory.
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