Mains PYQs - GS-III (2025) (Q. 7 - 9)

7. What is Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS)? What is the potential role of CCUS in tackling climate change? (150 words, 10 marks)

Introduction:

Define Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS).

Main Body

Components of CCUS

• Carbon Capture
• Carbon Utilization
• Carbon Storage

Role of CCUS in tackling climate change

• Reduces CO2 emissions.
• Helps decarbonization of industries – cement, steel, etc.
• Boosts transition to cleaner energy
• Supporting India’s net zero target
• Utilises captured CO2 for useful products – chemicals, synthetic fuels, etc.
• Enables gradual decarbonisation of fossil-fuel-dependent economies.

Conclusion:

Conclude with some way forwards and link with net zero target, etc.

Shankar IAS Parliament: Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS)

8. Seawater intrusion in the coastal aquifers is a major concern in India. What are the causes of seawater intrusion and the remedial measures to combat this hazard? (150 words, 10 marks)

Introduction:

Describe briefly about saltwater intrusion in coastal aquifers.

Main Body

Causes

• Climate change – sea level rise
• Sand mining
• Excess groundwater extraction
• Rapid urbanization
• Strom surge
• Unplanned construction

Remedial Measures

• Planting mangroves, wetland conservation.
• Regulate groundwater extraction
• Rainwater harvesting
• Manage aquifer recharge
• Restore coastal ecosystem

Conclusion:

Give a positive conclusion – Like managing or conserving coastal aquifers helps the livelihood of the people and enables sustainable development in the coastal region.

9. Terrorism is a global scourge. How has it manifested in India? Elaborate with contemporary examples. What are the countermeasures adopted by the State? Explain.  (150 words, 10 marks)

Introduction:

Define terrorism.

Main Body

Manifestation in India with examples

• Cross-border terrorism - 2019 Pulwama suicide attack.
• Religious extremism – Networks such as ISIS and Al-Qaeda.
• Cyber terrorism – Digital radicalisation.
• Left-wing extremism - Attacks in Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, and Odisha.
• Narco-terrorism - transnational organised crime, smuggling, etc.

Counter measures

• Legal frameworks – UAPA Act, NIA Act.
• Institutional mechanisms – NIA, National Intelligence Grid (NATGRID), etc.
• Operational Measures – Intelligence-based counter operations.
• Digital measures – Installing border fencing, smart surveillance, anti-drone technologies.
• Financial Measures – Terror funding counter through Enforcement Directorate (ED).
• International cooperation – Via INTERPOL, FATF, etc.

Conclusion:

Give a neutral and balanced conclusion.