9 hrs ago

UPSC Practice Examines Urbanisation, Migration and India’s Demographic Dividend

This UPSC practice set discusses two important changes happening in the world.

First, Indian cities are growing quickly, which creates more traffic, construction dust, air pollution and garbage.

Poor waste collection can cause rubbish to pile up or be burned, creating more pollution.

Cities need better public transport, dust control, waste systems and protected green spaces.

Second, many richer countries have fewer young workers and more elderly people.

India has a large young population that could work in those countries.

To benefit, Indian workers need skills, language abilities and safe legal pathways to migrate.

India must also create enough jobs at home so its young population becomes an advantage rather than a problem.

Key facts

Practice theme: UPSC Civil Services Mains GS1 answer writing
Urban issue: Rapid urbanisation is linked to air pollution, road dust and waste generation.
Pollution sources: Vehicle emissions, road dust, construction, industrial discharge and biomass burning.
Youth population: India has more than 450 million people aged 18 to 35, according to the article.
Remittances: Indian workers’ remittances totalled $110.47 billion in fiscal year 2025-26.
Migration approach: India has prioritised safe, orderly and legal migration and signed Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreements with several countries.
Proposed response: The article recommends integrated urban planning, skill development, worker safety, sustainable mobility and stronger waste management.

indianexpress.com · 9 hrs ago