General Studies 2022 GS Paper I 15 marks 250 words Compulsory Elucidate

Q20

Elucidate the relationship between globalization and new technology in a world of scarce resources, with special reference to India. (Answer in 250 words) 15

हिंदी में प्रश्न पढ़ें

अपर्याप्त संसाधनों की दुनिया में भूमंडलीकरण एवं नए तकनीक के रिश्ते को भारत के विशेष संदर्भ में स्पष्ट करें। (250 शब्दों में उत्तर दें)

Directive word: Elucidate

This question asks you to elucidate. The directive word signals the depth of analysis expected, the structure of your answer, and the weight of evidence you must bring.

See our UPSC directive words guide for a full breakdown of how to respond to each command word.

How this answer will be evaluated

Approach

The directive 'elucidate' demands clear, illuminating explanation that makes the relationship comprehensible. Structure as: brief conceptual introduction defining globalization-technology nexus and resource scarcity; body analyzing bidirectional relationship with India-specific dimensions; conclusion synthesizing opportunities and challenges for inclusive, sustainable development.

Key points expected

  • Explain how new technology (digital, biotech, green tech) accelerates globalization through reduced transaction costs and seamless cross-border flows
  • Analyze reverse causation: how globalization creates competitive pressure for technological adoption and innovation in resource-constrained settings
  • Examine resource scarcity as both constraint (digital divide, energy access) and driver (frugal innovation, circular economy solutions)
  • India-specific analysis: IT revolution's global integration, JAM trinity for financial inclusion, renewable energy transitions, and challenges of rare earth mineral dependence
  • Critical assessment of asymmetries: technology transfer vs. intellectual property barriers, and India's positioning in global value chains
  • Balanced conclusion on whether technology-enabled globalization aggravates or alleviates resource scarcity for developing economies

Evaluation rubric

DimensionWeightMax marksExcellentAveragePoor
Demand-directive understanding20%3Demonstrates precise grasp of 'elucidate' by illuminating the complex, bidirectional relationship with clarity; explicitly addresses 'scarce resources' as integral analytical lens rather than peripheral mentionBasic understanding of directive with some explanation of relationship; treats resource scarcity superficially or as afterthoughtMisinterprets directive as mere description or list; ignores resource scarcity constraint entirely or conflates with poverty/inequality generally
Content depth & accuracy20%3Covers technological dimensions (ICT, AI, biotech, green tech), globalization mechanisms (trade, FDI, knowledge flows), and resource constraints (energy, water, rare earths) with conceptual precision and accurate terminologyAdequate coverage of obvious technologies (IT, internet) and trade flows; limited engagement with resource scarcity dimensions or newer technologiesVague generalizations about 'modern technology' and 'globalization'; factual errors in describing India's technological landscape or resource position
Structure & flow20%3Logical progression from conceptual framework to empirical analysis; seamless integration of India-specific evidence; clear signposting of argument direction within tight word limitRecognizable introduction-body-conclusion structure; some abrupt transitions between global analysis and India focus; minor redundancyDisorganized or fragmented presentation; no clear separation between conceptual and empirical dimensions; conclusion merely restates points
Examples / case-law / data20%3Specific, contemporary Indian examples: UPI/digital payments ecosystem, semiconductor/PLI schemes, solar energy expansion (ISA, National Solar Mission), rare earth import dependence, or frugal innovation (Mars Orbiter Mission cost comparison)Generic references to IT sector, Bangalore as Silicon Valley, or general renewable energy trends without specificity; dated examples pre-2015No India-specific examples; or irrelevant examples (foreign MNCs without Indian context); hypothetical illustrations
Conclusion & analytical edge20%3Synthesizes tension between technology-enabled globalization and resource constraints; offers nuanced judgment on India's strategic positioning; suggests policy direction (self-reliance vs. integration, circular economy, strategic autonomy in critical technologies)Balanced summary of pros and cons without clear analytical position; generic recommendation on 'sustainable development'Descriptive ending without synthesis; uncritical celebration or rejection of globalization-technology nexus; no forward-looking element

Practice this exact question

Write your answer, then get a detailed evaluation from our AI trained on UPSC's answer-writing standards. Free first evaluation — no signup needed to start.

Evaluate my answer →

More from General Studies 2022 GS Paper I