CSS Past Paper 2016 Current Affairs Descriptive (Part 2)
CSS | Past Paper | Compulsory | 2016 | Part 2 | Descriptive
Below is the solution to PART-II (COMPULSORY) of the CSS Past Paper 2016 Current Affairs Descriptive (Part 2).
Question 2
Discuss in detail the efficacy of counter terrorism measures adopted by the government, especially with reference to the National Action Plan.
Introduction
Terrorism has been a big problem for Pakistan for many years. Thousands of people lost their lives in bomb blasts, attacks on schools, mosques, and even on security forces. The government took different steps to control this problem, and one of the most important steps was the National Action Plan (NAP). It was announced after the terrible Army Public School Peshawar attack in December 2014, where more than 140 children and teachers were martyred. This plan was made to fight terrorism in all its forms.
Main Features of the National Action Plan (NAP)
- Execution of convicted terrorists
After lifting the moratorium on death penalty, terrorists who were given death sentences were executed to give a strong message. - Establishment of military courts
Special military courts were formed to give fast and fair trials to hardcore terrorists. - Action against hate speech and extremist material
The government banned books, pamphlets, and speeches that were promoting hate and sectarianism. - Registration and regulation of madrassas
Many religious seminaries were operating without proper checks. The government started registering them and monitoring their activities. - Ban on glorification of terrorists
Media and public events were restricted from praising terrorists or giving them any kind of support. - Reforms in FATA
FATA (now merged with KP) was often used as a hideout by militants. The government worked on development and reforms there. - Rehabilitation of displaced persons
People affected by military operations were helped to return to their homes with better security. - Curbing funding of terrorists
Illegal money transfers like hundi/hawala were controlled and suspicious bank accounts were frozen.
Achievements of NAP
- Major drop in terrorism incidents: Attacks in cities and on security forces reduced after NAP was implemented. Military operations like Zarb-e-Azb and Radd-ul-Fasaad helped clean many areas from terrorist groups.
- Improved coordination: Civil and military leadership worked together. Intelligence sharing between agencies became better.
- International image improved: Pakistan started getting recognition from other countries for taking strong steps against terrorism.
Weaknesses and Limitations
- Slow implementation: Some points of NAP were not fully implemented, like proper madrassa reforms and stopping terror financing.
- Lack of political will: In some areas, political parties did not cooperate properly due to vote bank or fear of backlash.
- No permanent strategy: NAP was a short-term plan. There is still no long-term national policy to fight extremism from the roots.
- Civil-military imbalance: Most actions were taken by the military. Civil institutions remained weak and unprepared.
Suggestions for Improvement
- Strong follow-up on NAP points, especially madrassa reform and anti-terror financing laws.
- Strengthen civilian institutions like police, judiciary, and intelligence departments.
- Education and awareness to fight extremist ideology in society.
- Support from religious scholars to promote peace and tolerance.
- Political unity to fight terrorism together without using it for blame games.
Conclusion
The National Action Plan was a serious and much-needed effort by the government to counter terrorism. It showed some good results, especially in the short term. But for long-term peace, the government must make sure all points are implemented properly, civilian departments are made stronger, and the roots of extremism are removed through education and social reforms. Only then Pakistan can become a truly peaceful and safe country.
Question 3
What measures would you suggest to improve the economy of Pakistan particularly in the areas of debt reduction and enhancing export capacity?
Introduction
Pakistan’s economy has been facing many challenges like rising debt, low exports, trade deficit, and inflation. One of the biggest problems is the heavy external and internal debt, which puts pressure on the economy. Also, exports are very limited and mostly depend on a few items like textile. If Pakistan wants to become economically stable and self-reliant, then serious steps are needed to reduce debt and increase exports.
Current Economic Situation
- Pakistan’s debt is more than 70% of its GDP, which is a dangerous level.
- External loans from IMF, World Bank, China, and other countries are increasing.
- Exports are less than $30 billion, while imports are much higher.
- Trade deficit creates pressure on foreign exchange reserves.
- Industries are not growing fast due to energy crisis, poor infrastructure, and lack of innovation.
Measures to Reduce Debt
- Increase tax collection
Pakistan’s tax-to-GDP ratio is very low. Government should increase tax base by including traders, landlords, and other rich people who avoid taxes. - Control non-development spending
Expenses on government luxuries, subsidies for rich, and unproductive departments must be reduced. - Privatization of loss-making institutions
Companies like PIA, Pakistan Steel Mills, etc., are making losses. These should be reformed or privatized to stop wasting money. - Use domestic resources for development
Instead of foreign loans, government should encourage investment from local businesses and overseas Pakistanis. - Promote public-private partnerships (PPP)
For big projects, involve private sector to share cost and reduce the need for borrowing.
Measures to Enhance Export Capacity
- Diversify exports
Right now, Pakistan mainly exports textiles. We should also focus on IT, agriculture, sports goods, surgical instruments, and minerals. - Improve product quality
Local products must meet international standards to compete in global markets. - Explore new markets
Pakistan should not depend only on US and EU. Trade with Africa, Central Asia, ASEAN, and Middle East should be increased. - Give incentives to exporters
Provide tax benefits, low interest loans, and rebates to industries that export. - Invest in infrastructure and energy
Good roads, ports, and regular power supply will help industries grow and produce more for exports. - Develop skilled labor force
Technical education should be promoted to produce skilled workers for industrial and service sectors.
Role of CPEC and Regional Trade
- CPEC can help Pakistan improve connectivity and attract investment.
- Special Economic Zones (SEZs) under CPEC can boost exports if properly managed.
- Pakistan should also try to improve relations with neighbors for better regional trade, especially with India, Iran, and Afghanistan.
Conclusion
To fix Pakistan’s economy, we must stop relying on foreign loans and start producing and exporting more. Strong tax reforms, export policies, and investment in industries are the need of the hour. If government takes bold steps and shows political will, Pakistan can reduce its debt and become an exporting economy. That’s the only way to achieve real economic independence.
Question 4
Discuss the possibilities of progress under the recently agreed rubric of comprehensive dialogue between Pakistan and India. In your opinion what are the major constraints at present?
Introduction
Pakistan and India are two neighboring countries with a long history of conflict, especially over Kashmir. Since independence in 1947, both nations have fought wars and had many clashes. Many times, they tried to improve relations, but progress was either slow or failed due to trust issues. In 2015, both countries agreed to restart talks under a new format called Comprehensive Dialogue. This was a fresh chance to solve issues through peace and discussions instead of war.
What is Comprehensive Dialogue?
The Comprehensive Bilateral Dialogue is a framework where both countries agreed to talk on all major issues, including:
- Kashmir dispute
- Terrorism
- Trade
- Water issues
- People-to-people contact
- Cultural exchange
- Siachen and Sir Creek issues
The idea was to cover everything important at once instead of focusing only on one issue.
Possibilities of Progress
- Peace for development
If peace returns, both countries can focus more on development, trade, and education instead of spending billions on defense. - Regional trade boost
South Asia has one of the lowest trade volumes among neighbors. Peace can help increase trade, especially through SAARC and BIMSTEC. - Fight against poverty and climate change
Both countries face similar problems like poverty, water crisis, and pollution. Joint efforts can bring better results. - Cultural and people-to-people contact
Movies, music, sports, and tourism can create better understanding between citizens of both nations. - International support
World powers like USA, China, and EU always support peace talks between the two. A good dialogue can improve Pakistan and India’s image globally.
Major Constraints at Present
- Kashmir Conflict
The biggest hurdle is Kashmir. After India’s revocation of Article 370 in August 2019, the situation became worse. Pakistan considers it illegal and wants to solve it as per UN resolutions, while India calls it an internal matter. - Terrorism accusations
India blames Pakistan for supporting terror attacks like Pathankot (2016) and Uri (2016). These accusations always stop the peace process. - Lack of trust
There is deep mistrust between both governments. Even when talks are agreed, any small incident can break them. - Strong media pressure
Media in both countries often plays a negative role. They hype up small incidents and create hate. - Political interests
Some political parties gain votes by showing anti-India or anti-Pakistan sentiments. This makes it hard to take peaceful steps. - Weak backchannel diplomacy
Secret or unofficial talks (track-II diplomacy) are weak now. Without them, it’s hard to build trust for official talks.
Suggestions for Moving Forward
- Resume dialogue with sincerity from both sides.
- Solve smaller issues like visa policies, prisoners, and trade to build trust.
- Involve neutral countries or international organizations as mediators.
- Promote cultural exchanges and youth programs.
- Reduce hate content in textbooks and media.
Conclusion
The comprehensive dialogue is a good opportunity for Pakistan and India to move towards peace and solve long-standing issues. But the road is full of obstacles like Kashmir and terrorism. Without political will, patience, and trust-building steps, no real progress can be made. Dialogue is the only sensible way forward for the stability of South Asia.
Question 5
Discuss the prospects and challenges to the construction of “China-Pakistan Economic Corridor”. How will CPEC become a game changer for the region?
Introduction
The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is one of the biggest development projects in the history of Pakistan. It is a key part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The main goal of CPEC is to connect Gwadar Port in Pakistan to Kashgar in China through roads, railways, and pipelines. The total worth of this project is over $60 billion. If properly completed, CPEC can change Pakistan’s economy and also benefit the whole region.
Prospects of CPEC
- Economic growth and investment
CPEC bring massive Chinese investment in Pakistan’s infrastructure, energy, and industrial zones. - Job creation
Thousands of jobs will be created for local people in construction, industry, and transport sectors. - Energy production
Many power projects under CPEC have already started working, helping reduce Pakistan’s load shedding. - Gwadar Port development
Gwadar is becoming an important deep-sea port, which will help increase trade and bring revenue. - Regional connectivity
CPEC connects South Asia, Central Asia, Middle East, and China, improving regional trade and transport. - Tourism and local business boost
Improved roads and better security in Balochistan and Gilgit-Baltistan can grow tourism and local economy.
Challenges to CPEC
- Security threats
Attacks on Chinese workers and CPEC routes, especially in Balochistan, are a major concern. Ensuring security is very important. - Political instability
Political changes and protests in Pakistan delay work and make foreign investors worried. - Provincial disagreements
Some provinces like Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan feel they are not getting fair share in CPEC projects. - Debt concerns
Critics say Pakistan is taking too many loans from China, which can create debt trap problems in future. - Lack of transparency
Many CPEC agreements are not made public, which creates doubts among people and opposition parties. - Slow progress
Some projects are delayed due to bureaucratic hurdles, land issues, and lack of coordination between departments.
CPEC as a Game Changer for the Region
- Stronger China-Pakistan friendship
CPEC has brought both countries even closer. China sees Pakistan as a strong ally in the region. - Regional peace through trade
If India, Afghanistan, and Iran also join or cooperate in future, the whole region can benefit from economic growth and better relations. - Economic zone for Central Asia
Central Asian countries are landlocked. CPEC can give them access to the Arabian Sea through Gwadar Port. - Shift in global trade routes
CPEC reduces China’s distance to the Middle East and Africa by thousands of kilometers, making Gwadar a trade hub.
Suggestions for Improvement
- Provide full security to Chinese workers and CPEC projects.
- Make the project more inclusive and transparent, involving all provinces fairly.
- Promote local industries and not just Chinese companies.
- Avoid over-dependence on Chinese loans and involve other international partners.
Conclusion
CPEC has the potential to change Pakistan’s future. It can create jobs, boost economy, and make Pakistan a regional trade center. But without solving issues like security, political unity, and fair distribution, the full benefits of CPEC cannot be achieved. With good planning and strong leadership, CPEC can truly become a game changer for Pakistan and the whole region.
Question 6
How do you see recent developments in the Middle East, particularly with reference to deteriorating relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran? What role, if any, Pakistan could play in reducing the tensions between the two Muslim countries?
Introduction
The Middle East has always been a politically unstable region, with many conflicts based on religion, politics, oil, and foreign influence. One of the major reasons for tension is the rivalry between Saudi Arabia and Iran. These two powerful Muslim countries represent different Islamic sects — Sunni (Saudi Arabia) and Shia (Iran) — and often support opposite sides in regional conflicts. Their rivalry has deeply affected the Middle East’s peace and security. Recently, these tensions became worse due to events like wars in Syria and Yemen, and the attack on the Saudi embassy in Iran in 2016.
Recent Developments in the Middle East
- Syria Crisis
Iran supports Bashar al-Assad’s regime, while Saudi Arabia supports the opposition groups. This proxy war increased tensions between both countries. - Yemen War
Saudi Arabia launched a military operation against Houthi rebels, who are backed by Iran. This war created a humanitarian crisis and worsened relations. - Iraq’s political scene
Iran has strong influence in Iraq’s government, which Saudi Arabia sees as a threat to Sunni interests. - Diplomatic Breakdown (2016)
After the execution of a Shia cleric (Sheikh Nimr al-Nimr) by Saudi Arabia, Iranian protestors attacked the Saudi embassy in Tehran. In response, Saudi Arabia cut diplomatic ties. - Foreign interference
US and Israel also play roles in increasing division. They support Saudi Arabia while seeing Iran as a threat in the region. - Sectarian violence
The rivalry has increased Sunni-Shia tensions not just in the Middle East, but also in countries like Pakistan, Lebanon, and Bahrain.
Pakistan’s Relations with Saudi Arabia and Iran
- Pakistan has strong historical ties with Saudi Arabia. Many Pakistanis work there and Saudi Arabia has supported Pakistan in times of need.
- Pakistan also shares a long border with Iran and has cultural, religious, and trade ties with it.
- Pakistan cannot afford to take sides, because both relations are important for its security and economy.
Pakistan’s Possible Role in Reducing Tensions
- Neutral mediator
Pakistan can act as a bridge between Iran and Saudi Arabia, promoting dialogue and peaceful resolution of conflicts. - Use of diplomacy
Pakistan’s leaders, like former PM Imran Khan, visited both countries to reduce misunderstandings. This kind of diplomacy should continue. - Promote unity among Muslim nations
As a nuclear Muslim country, Pakistan has the responsibility to unite the Muslim Ummah and avoid further division. - Support OIC efforts
Pakistan can use the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to bring both nations to the table for peace talks. - Security cooperation
Pakistan can offer joint security discussions where both countries work together to fight extremism and terrorism instead of fighting each other.
Challenges for Pakistan in This Role
- Pressure from allies like the US and China who have their own interests in the region.
- Internal sectarian balance, as Pakistan has both Sunni and Shia population, and taking any side can create domestic problems.
- Limited influence, as both Iran and Saudi Arabia have strong independent foreign policies.
Conclusion
The Saudi-Iran rivalry is a major threat to the peace of the Middle East. It is also harmful for the unity of the Muslim world. Pakistan, being a respected Muslim country with good ties with both sides, can play a positive and neutral role to reduce tensions. By using smart diplomacy, Pakistan can not only help bring peace to the region but also improve its own image as a peace-loving and responsible nation.
Question 7
Examine the emerging strategic competition between China and the US and its impact on global order.
Introduction
In the 21st century, the world is seeing a new power rivalry — this time between the United States (US) and China. The US is the current global superpower, while China is rapidly rising as an economic and military giant. Their competition is not only about trade, but also about technology, influence, military, and leadership in international institutions. This growing strategic rivalry is already changing the global order, from Asia-Pacific to Africa and even in cyberspace.
Main Areas of Strategic Competition
- Economic Competition
- China’s economy is now the second largest in the world.
- The US accuses China of unfair trade practices and currency manipulation.
- The US-China trade war (2018–2020) saw both sides imposing heavy tariffs.
- Technological Race
- China’s companies like Huawei and TikTok have become global players.
- The US fears China will dominate 5G, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and semiconductors.
- The US has banned or restricted Chinese tech firms over security concerns.
- Military and Security
- China is building strong naval power in the South China Sea and around Taiwan.
- The US is increasing its presence in the Indo-Pacific through QUAD alliance (US, India, Japan, Australia).
- Both countries are testing advanced weapons and space technologies.
- Political and Ideological Clash
- The US promotes liberal democracy and freedom of speech.
- China promotes authoritarian model with state control over society and media.
- Both want to spread their own systems and values.
- Influence in Global Institutions
- China is building new platforms like BRICS Bank and Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB).
- The US dominates IMF, World Bank, and many UN agencies.
- China is expanding its influence in developing countries, especially through Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
Impact on Global Order
- Shift towards Multipolar World
- The US no longer has full control; China and other powers like Russia are rising.
- The world is becoming multipolar with more than one center of power.
- New Alliances and Blocs
- US supports alliances like NATO and QUAD.
- China is strengthening ties with Russia, Iran, Pakistan, and African countries.
- Cold War–style blocs may reappear.
- Trade and Tech Wars
- Global supply chains are getting disturbed.
- Countries are forced to choose sides in technology and trade (like banning Huawei or using US systems).
- Tensions in Asia-Pacific
- Taiwan issue is getting serious.
- South China Sea disputes are turning into flashpoints for conflict.
- Global Institutions under Pressure
- The UN, WTO, and other bodies are struggling as big powers fight over control and influence.
What Should the World Do?
- Promote dialogue between China and the US to avoid a full Cold War.
- Strengthen multilateralism to solve global issues together.
- Small countries like Pakistan should maintain neutral and balanced foreign policies.
Conclusion
The US-China strategic rivalry is shaping a new world order. Their competition in economy, military, technology, and global influence is already creating divisions. The risk is that if this rivalry becomes more hostile, it could lead to conflicts or economic shocks. But with wise leadership and cooperation, the world can avoid war and find a balanced future. Global peace depends on how these two powers behave in the coming years.
Question 8
Discuss the adverse impact of climate change on the world and the measures recently adopted by the Paris Conference to address this issue.
Introduction
Climate change is one of the biggest threats facing the world today. It is caused by human activities like burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial pollution. These actions increase greenhouse gases like CO₂ in the atmosphere, trapping heat and warming the planet. The world is already facing the bad effects of global warming, such as rising sea levels, floods, heatwaves, and melting glaciers. To fight this, world leaders gathered in Paris in December 2015 and signed a global agreement called the Paris Climate Accord.
Adverse Impacts of Climate Change on the World
- Rising Global Temperatures
- The average global temperature has increased by more than 1°C in the last century.
- This causes heatwaves, droughts, and less rainfall in many regions.
- Melting Glaciers and Rising Sea Levels
- Ice is melting in Arctic and Antarctic regions.
- Sea levels are rising, putting coastal cities like Karachi, New York, and Dhaka at risk.
- Natural Disasters
- Increase in floods, hurricanes, cyclones, and wildfires.
- Poor countries suffer more because they have fewer resources to recover.
- Agriculture and Food Security
- Changing weather patterns affect crop production, especially in developing countries.
- Droughts reduce food supply, leading to hunger and poverty.
- Water Shortages
- Rivers and lakes are drying up.
- Many countries are already facing water scarcity, including Pakistan.
- Health Issues
- Climate change causes the spread of diseases like malaria, dengue, and respiratory problems.
- Loss of Biodiversity
- Many animal and plant species are dying or becoming extinct due to habitat loss.
Paris Climate Conference 2015 (COP-21)
- Held in Paris, France, in December 2015, with 195 countries participating.
- Goal: To limit global warming to well below 2°C, preferably 1.5°C, compared to pre-industrial levels.
Main Measures Adopted in Paris Agreement
- Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs)
- Every country must submit its own climate action plan to reduce carbon emissions.
- No Legal Punishment, but Global Pressure
- The agreement is not legally binding, but there is international pressure to follow through.
- Financial Support for Developing Countries
- Rich countries agreed to give $100 billion per year by 2020 to help poor countries adapt to climate change.
- Review Every Five Years
- Countries will review and increase their targets every five years to improve efforts.
- Focus on Renewable Energy
- Encourages the use of solar, wind, and hydro energy to replace coal and oil.
- Carbon Neutrality by Mid-Century
- Long-term goal is to reach net-zero emissions by 2050–2100.
Challenges in Implementation
- Some countries like the US (under Trump) withdrew from the agreement, but later rejoined.
- Many poor countries lack technology and funds to meet their climate goals.
- Still heavy use of coal and oil, especially in fast-growing economies like India and China.
Pakistan’s Role and Situation
- Pakistan is one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change.
- Faces floods, droughts, and water shortages regularly.
- Pakistan submitted its NDC and is working on Billion Tree Tsunami, clean energy, and climate-smart agriculture.
Conclusion
Climate change is not a future problem; it is a present-day reality. Its effects are already destroying lives, economies, and ecosystems. The Paris Agreement is a good step in the right direction, but more serious action is needed. All countries must cooperate, reduce pollution, and shift to green energy. If we don’t act now, the damage to the planet may become irreversible.
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