JPSC MAINS 2024 Paper-6

Points to Remember: Ecological pyramids represent the trophic structure of an ecosystem. Three main types exist: pyramids of numbers, pyramids of biomass, and pyramids of energy. Each type has its limitations and exceptions. Understanding ecological pyramids helps in analyzing ecosystem stability and productivity. Introduction: Ecological pyramids are graphical representations of the quantitative relationships between different … Read more What do you mean by ecological pyramids? Explain their types.

Points to Remember: Definition and basic functionality of satellites. Categorization of satellites based on orbit and purpose. Diverse applications across various sectors (communication, navigation, Earth observation, etc.). Advantages and limitations of different satellite types. Future trends and advancements in satellite technology. Introduction: Satellites are artificial objects placed into orbit around the Earth or other celestial … Read more What are satellites? Describe the applications of different types of satellites used for different purposes.

Points to Remember: Definition and types of agroforestry systems. Environmental benefits (carbon sequestration, biodiversity, soil health). Economic benefits (increased income, diversification). Social benefits (improved livelihoods, food security). Management practices (species selection, site preparation, maintenance). Challenges and limitations of agroforestry. Introduction: Agroforestry is a land use management system that integrates trees and shrubs with crops and/or … Read more What do you mean by Agroforestry? Describe the importance of Agroforestry and its management.

Points to Remember: Definition and causes of the global energy crisis. Types of alternative energy sources (renewable and non-renewable). Advantages and disadvantages of each alternative source. Policy recommendations for transitioning to alternative energy. Importance of sustainable energy solutions. Introduction: The global energy crisis refers to a period of significant energy price volatility and shortages, impacting … Read more What is the global energy crisis? Give a detailed account of alternative sources of energy.

India?s food security system has made significant progress, but challenges remain in distribution efficiency, nutrition quality, and agricultural sustainability. Strengthening PDS reforms, improving storage infrastructure, promoting nutritional security, and addressing agricultural distress are key to ensuring food security for all.

Minimum Support Price (MSP) Policy ? Ensures farmers get a fair price for their produce, encouraging food production.

Agricultural Reforms ? Initiatives like the National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA) and the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) aim to improve food production and sustainability.

Conclusion

Public Distribution System (PDS) ? Ration shops distribute wheat, rice, and other essentials at subsidized rates. The Targeted PDS (TPDS) aims to better identify poor households.

Mid-Day Meal Scheme ? Provides nutritious meals to school children to improve nutrition and school attendance.

Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) ? Focuses on nutrition, immunization, and preschool education for children under six and pregnant/lactating mothers.

Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) ? Launched during COVID-19 to provide free food grains to the poor.

National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013 ? Provides subsidized food grains to about two-thirds of the population.

Price volatility ? Rising food prices can make essential items unaffordable for the poor.

Agricultural distress ? Farmers face low productivity, high input costs, and poor pricing mechanisms, affecting food production.

Policy Measures for Food Security in India

Several policy interventions have been undertaken to ensure food security:

Nutritional concerns ? Food security is often equated with calorie intake, ignoring protein and micronutrient deficiencies.

Inadequate coverage ? The National Food Security Act (NFSA) covers around 67% of the population, but many vulnerable groups still face food insecurity.

Storage and wastage ? Poor infrastructure leads to food grain spoilage in warehouses.

Leakages and corruption in PDS ? Diversion of food grains, fake ration cards, and middlemen exploitation.

Exclusion errors ? Many deserving poor people are left out due to errors in the identification of beneficiaries.

Flaws in the Indian Food Security Programme

Despite various initiatives, the Indian food security system faces several challenges:

Access to food ? Enabling people to obtain food through affordability and distribution mechanisms.

Utilization of food ? Ensuring proper nutrition and absorption of food in the body.

In India, food security is mainly implemented through mechanisms like the Public Distribution System (PDS), Mid-Day Meal Scheme, and Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS).