UPSC Mains 2015 GS3 Q16 — Disaster Management
The frequency of earthquakes appears to have increased in the Indian subcontinent. However, India’s preparedness for mitigating their impact has significant gaps. Discuss various aspects. (Answer in 200 words)
Question Decoded — examiner's intent
- Directive verbs
- Discuss
- Scope keywords
- frequency of earthquakesIndian subcontinentpreparedness for mitigatingsignificant gapsimpact
- Implicit sub-parts
- Analysis of whether the increase in frequency is real (seismic activity) or perceived (better reporting/urbanization).
- Identification of specific vulnerabilities across different seismic zones (Himalayan vs. Peninsular).
- Critical evaluation of existing institutional frameworks like NDMA and building codes.
- Proposed strategic interventions to bridge the identified gaps.
- Common pitfalls
- Spending too much time listing past earthquakes (Bhuj, Latur) instead of focusing on 'preparedness' and 'gaps'.
- Ignoring the 'subcontinent' aspect by only talking about India's mainland and neglecting the Himalayan belt or neighboring influences.
- Failing to distinguish between structural gaps (building codes) and non-structural gaps (community awareness/early warning).
- Confusing disaster 'response' with 'preparedness and mitigation'.
- Dimensions required
- Geological/SeismicInstitutional/LegalInfrastructuralSocio-EconomicTechnological
- Marks allocation hint
Allocate roughly 40 words to the 'frequency' and 'vulnerability' context, 100 words to a detailed analysis of 'significant gaps' across dimensions, and 60 words to forward-looking mitigation strategies and a concise conclusion.
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