Weekly Current Affairs – Page 7
UPSC GS-III | Science & Technology
Innovation • Self-Reliance • Ethical Governance
🔹 HOW UPSC EXPECTS SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY ANSWERS
UPSC does not expect technical depth like engineering exams. It evaluates whether a candidate understands applications, implications, governance challenges, ethical concerns, and national priorities related to science and technology.
Good GS-III answers must:
- Link technology with development
- Highlight self-reliance and innovation
- Address ethical and regulatory dimensions
- Show awareness of risks and limitations
🚀 1️⃣ TECHNOLOGY & SELF-RELIANCE (ATMANIRBHAR BHARAT)
Context (Current Affairs):
India continues to emphasise indigenous technology development in sectors such as defence, space, electronics, semiconductors, and renewable energy.
Why this matters:
- Reduces strategic dependence on foreign suppliers
- Strengthens national security
- Boosts domestic manufacturing and innovation
GS-III Link:
- Indigenisation of technology
- Make in India and innovation ecosystem
Mains Angle:
“Technological self-reliance is as much a strategic necessity as an economic choice.” Discuss.
🧬 2️⃣ EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES & GOVERNANCE CHALLENGES
Rapid advances in areas such as Artificial Intelligence, biotechnology, and digital platforms raise new governance questions.
Key Challenges:
- Data privacy and surveillance
- Algorithmic bias and accountability
- Regulatory capacity of the state
Why UPSC focuses here:
Emerging technologies can amplify inequality if not governed with foresight and ethical safeguards.
🛰️ 3️⃣ SPACE TECHNOLOGY & NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT
India’s space programme increasingly focuses on commercial applications, private sector participation, and strategic capabilities.
Applications:
- Communication and navigation
- Disaster management
- Agriculture and weather forecasting
GS-III Relevance:
- Science and technology development
- National security
Mains Question:
Discuss the role of space technology in India’s socio-economic development. (15 marks)
🧪 4️⃣ RESEARCH, INNOVATION & HUMAN CAPITAL
India’s long-term technological progress depends on strong research institutions and skilled human resources.
Key Issues:
- Low R&D expenditure as percentage of GDP
- Brain drain vs brain circulation
- Industry-academia collaboration
Ethical Dimension:
Scientific progress must align with social responsibility and public welfare.
🔐 5️⃣ CYBER SECURITY & DIGITAL INFRASTRUCTURE
As governance and economy become digital, cyber security has emerged as a critical national challenge.
Concerns:
- Data breaches and cyber crimes
- Protection of critical infrastructure
- Capacity building in cyber forensics
GS-III Link:
- Internal security
- Technology and governance
🧠 HOW TO USE THIS PAGE IN MAINS
- ✔ Explain technology in simple language
- ✔ Emphasise applications over theory
- ✔ Include ethical and governance concerns
- ✔ Avoid excessive jargon
✍️ PRACTICE QUESTIONS
1. Examine the challenges involved in governing emerging technologies in India. (10 marks)
2. Discuss how technological self-reliance can strengthen India’s strategic autonomy. (15 marks)
“Technology empowers society only when guided by wisdom.”
— Shaktimatha 369 Learning
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