UPSC CARE Mains Practice 1st January 2026
Mains Practice Questions for the Day
- Evaluate the role of the Ministry of Home Affairs in strengthening internal security and governance in India in recent years. (GS Paper III – Governance, Internal Security)
- Examine the major achievements of the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) in 2025. How do these achievements strengthen the role of MSMEs in India’s economic growth, and what challenges must be addressed to enhance their long-term competitiveness? (GS Paper III (Indian Economy))
Evaluate the role of the Ministry of Home Affairs in strengthening internal security and governance in India in recent years. (GS Paper III – Governance, Internal Security)
Introduction:
Internal security is a foundational element of governance and national stability. In recent years, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has undertaken comprehensive reforms and operational measures to strengthen India’s internal security architecture while improving governance delivery through institutional, legal, and technological interventions.
Body
Containing Left-Wing Extremism (LWE)
One of the most significant achievements of the MHA has been the near-elimination of Left-Wing Extremism under the Naxalmukt Bharat Abhiyan. A calibrated mix of intelligence-led operations, inter-state coordination, infrastructure development, and surrender–rehabilitation policies sharply reduced LWE violence and territorial influence. Major operations in areas such as Karreguttalu Hills and Narayanpur dismantled Maoist leadership and logistics, restoring state authority in long-affected tribal regions.
Strengthening Counter-Terrorism Framework
The MHA adopted a zero-tolerance approach to terrorism, reinforced through institutional and legal reforms. Platforms such as the Multi-Agency Centre (MAC), CCTNS, and NATGRID, along with amendments to UAPA, NIA Act, and PMLA, enhanced intelligence sharing and financial tracking. Targeted operations like Operation Sindoor and Operation Mahadev demonstrated a proactive posture against cross-border terrorism, while improved conviction rates reflected stronger investigation and prosecution capacity.
Cyber Security and Criminal Justice Reforms
Recognising emerging threats, the MHA strengthened cyber security through the Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C) and innovations like e-Zero FIR, enabling faster response to digital crimes. Simultaneously, the introduction of new criminal laws marked a shift towards victim-centric, time-bound, and transparent justice, improving public confidence in the criminal justice system.
Holistic Governance and Regional Integration
Beyond security, the MHA contributed to governance through initiatives in border management, disaster resilience, narcotics control, North-East integration, and cooperative federalism via Zonal Councils. These measures linked security with development and social cohesion.
Conclusion:
Overall, the Ministry of Home Affairs has played a decisive role in strengthening internal security while advancing governance reforms. However, sustaining these gains will require continued institutional accountability, respect for civil liberties, and inclusive development to ensure long-term stability and democratic resilience.
Examine the major achievements of the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) in 2025. How do these achievements strengthen the role of MSMEs in India’s economic growth, and what challenges must be addressed to enhance their long-term competitiveness? (GS Paper III (Indian Economy))
Introduction:
Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are the backbone of the Indian economy, contributing about 30% to GDP, 36% to manufacturing output, and employing over 12 crore people. In 2025, the Ministry of MSME focused on formalisation, credit expansion, infrastructure creation, technology upgradation, and market access to strengthen inclusive and sustainable growth.
Body
Major Achievements of the Ministry of MSME in 2025
1. Formalisation
Over 7.3 crore enterprises were registered on the Udyam platforms, enabling access to credit, subsidies, and public procurement.
2. Credit & Financial Support
PMEGP generated large-scale employment, CGTMSE provided collateral-free guarantees worth ₹3.77 lakh crore, and the SRI Fund addressed the “missing middle” through equity support.
3. Infrastructure & Artisan Support
The PM Vishwakarma Scheme achieved 30 lakh registrations, while RAMP and cluster development schemes improved industrial infrastructure and regional balance.
4. Market Access & Inclusion
Public procurement from MSMEs exceeded the mandated 25%, and the National SC/ST Hub expanded opportunities for disadvantaged entrepreneurs.
5. Technology & Skills
The MSME Champion Scheme, ZED certification, and new Technology Centres enhanced productivity, quality, and innovation.
6. Governance & Global Outreach
ODR and CHAMPIONS portals improved dispute resolution, while rising Khadi sales and international MoUs strengthened global integration.
Significance for Economic Growth
MSMEs drive employment, exports (≈45%), regional development, and innovation, reinforcing India’s digital and entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Persisting Challenges
Despite progress, MSMEs face credit gaps, delayed payments, regulatory burden, infrastructure bottlenecks, skill mismatches, limited technology adoption, and ESG compliance pressures, which constrain scale, productivity, and global competitiveness.
Way Forward
- Strengthen formal credit delivery through fintech, TReDS, and strict enforcement of payment timelines.
- Accelerate digital and technological adoption via MSME tech hubs and innovation clinics.
- Promote export consortia, FTA utilisation, and e-commerce integration.
- Encourage sustainable and inclusive entrepreneurship through green finance, ESG-linked credit, and women-focused support.
Conclusion:
The year 2025 consolidated MSMEs as a resilient growth engine. Addressing structural constraints is essential to transform the sector into a globally competitive and sustainable pillar of India’s long-term economic development.
