Ultimate Assessment Program 2027/28/29 || 1:1 Mentorship Batch Admissions Open

Exam Year: 2023

73 questions

# Question Microtheme UPSC Syllabus Marks GS Paper Subject
Agriculture
1 How does e-Technology help farmers in production and marketing of agricultural produce? TechXAgri Production and Marketing GS3-07.E-Technology in the aid of farmers 10.0 GS3 Agriculture
2 Explain the changes in cropping pattern in India in the context of changes in consumption pattern and marketing conditions. Crop Diversification GS3-04.Major crops-cropping patterns in various parts of the country, different types of irrigation and irrigation systems storage, transport and marketing of agricultural produce and issues and related constraints; e-technology in the aid of farmers: 15.0 GS3 Agriculture
3 What are the direct and indirect subsidies provided to farm sector in India? Discuss the issues raised by the World Trade Organization(WTO) in relation to agricultural subsidies. SubsidiesXAgriculture GS3-08.Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies and MSP; PDS 15.0 GS3 Agriculture
Art and Culture
4 What were the major technological changes introduced during the Sultanate period? How did those technological changes influence the Indian society? GS1-01. Indian Culture- Salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times. 15.0 GS1 Art and Culture
5 What are the main features of Vedic society and religion? Do you think some of the features are still prevailing in Indian society? Vedic Culture GS1-01. Indian Culture- Salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times. 15.0 GS1 Art and Culture
6 Explain the role of geographical factors towards the development of Ancient India. (प्राचीन भारत के विकास की दिशा में भौगोलिक कारकों की भूमिका स्पष्ट कीजिए।) Art and Culture › Miscellaneous GS1-01. Indian Culture- Salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times. 10.0 GS1 Art and Culture
Disaster Management
7 Dam failures are always catastrophic, especially on the downstream side, resulting in a colossal loss of life and property. Analyze the various causes of dam failures. Give two examples of large dam failures. Dam Failures GS3-19.Disaster and Disaster Management. 10.0 GS3 Disaster Management
Economics
8 From being net food importer in 1960s, India has emerged as a net food exporter to the world. Provide reasons. GS1-13.Factors responsible for the location of primary, secondary, and tertiary sector industries in various parts of the world (including India). 15.0 GS1 Economics
9 State the objectives and measures of land reforms in India. Discuss how land ceiling policy on landholding can be considered as an effective reform under economic criteria GS3-11.Land Reforms in India 10.0 GS3 Economics
10 What is the status of digitalization in the Indian economy? Examine the problems faced in this regard and suggest improvements. Digital Payments,Digital Infrastructure GS3-01. Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment. 10.0 GS3 Economics
11 Faster economic growth requires increased share of the manufacturing sector in GDP, particularly of MSMEs. Comment on the present policies of the Government in this regard. Manufacturing Sector GS3-01. Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment. 10.0 GS3 Economics
12 Distinguish between ‘care economy’ and ‘monetized economy’. How can care economy be brought into monetized economy through women empowerment? CareXMonetized Economy GS3-01. Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment. 15.0 GS3 Economics
13 Most of the unemployment in India is structural in nature. Examine the methodology adopted to compute unemployment in the country and suggest improvements. Unemployment GS3-01. Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment. 15.0 GS3 Economics
Environment
14 What is oil pollution? What are its impacts on the marine ecosystem? In what way is oil pollution particularly harmful for a country like India? Water Pollution and Related Issues GS3-18.Conservation, Environmental Pollution and Degradation, Environmental Impact Assessment. 10.0 GS3 Environment
15 The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has predicted a global sea level rise of about one metre by AD 2100. What would be its impact in India and the other countries in the Indian Ocean region? Rio Family/UNFCCC/IPCC GS3-18.Conservation, Environmental Pollution and Degradation, Environmental Impact Assessment. 15.0 GS3 Environment
16 Comment on the National Wetland Conservation Programme initiated by the Government of India and name a few India’s wetlands of international importance included in the Ramsar Sites. Wetlands GS3-18.Conservation, Environmental Pollution and Degradation, Environmental Impact Assessment. 15.0 GS3 Environment
17 The adoption of electric vehicles is rapidly growing worldwide. How do electric vehicles contribute to reducing carbon emissions and what are the key benefits they offer compared to traditional combustion engine vehicles? GS3-18.Conservation, Environmental Pollution and Degradation, Environmental Impact Assessment. 15.0 GS3 Environment
Ethics
18 Differentiate ‘moral intuition' from ‘moral reasoning’ with suitable examples. Term Based GS4-01.Ethics and Human Interface: Essence, Determinants and Consequences of Ethics in – Human Actions; Dimensions of Ethics; Ethics – in Private and Public Relationships. 10.0 GS4 Ethics
19 “Corruption is the manifestation of the failure of core values in the society.” In your opinion, what measures can be adopted to uplift the core values in the society? Crisis of Ethical Values GS4-02.Human Values: Lessons from the Lives and Teachings of Great Leaders, Reformers and Administrators; Role of family society and educational institutions in inculcating values. 10.0 GS4 Ethics
20 What were the major teachings of Guru Nanak? Explain their relevance in the contemporary world. Teachings of Great Leaders GS4-02.Human Values: Lessons from the Lives and Teachings of Great Leaders, Reformers and Administrators; Role of family society and educational institutions in inculcating values. 10.0 GS4 Ethics
21 What really matters for success, character, happiness and lifelong achievements is a definite set of emotional skills – your EQ- not just purely cognitive abilities that are measured by conventional IQ tests.” Do you agree with this view ? Give reasons in support of your answer. EQ vs IQ GS4-04.Emotional intelligence-concepts, and their utilities and application in administration and governance. 10.0 GS4 Ethics
22 (a) “The simplest acts of kindness are by far more powerful than a thousand heads bowing in prayer.” – Mahatma Gandhi Quote-BasedXMahatma Gandhi GS4-05.Contributions of Moral Thinkers and Philosophers from India and World 10.0 GS4 Ethics
23 (b) “To awaken the people, it is the women who must be awakened. Ones she is on the move, the family moves, the village moves, the nation moves.” – Jawaharlal Nehru Quote-basedXJawaharlal Nehru GS4-05.Contributions of Moral Thinkers and Philosophers from India and World 10.0 GS4 Ethics
24 (c) Do not hate anybody, because that hatred that comes out from you must, in the long run, come back to you. If you love, that love will come back to you, completing the circle.” – Swami Vivekanand. Quote-basedXSwami Vivekananda GS4-05.Contributions of Moral Thinkers and Philosophers from India and World 10.0 GS4 Ethics
25 Is conscience a more reliable guide when compared to laws, rules and regulations in the context of ethical decision making ? Discuss. Laws,Rules,Regulations,Conscience GS4-07.Public/Civil Service Values and Ethics in Public Administration 10.0 GS4 Ethics
26 What do you understand by ‘moral integrity’ and ‘professional efficiency' in the context of corporate governance in India ? Illustrate with suitable examples. Corporate Governance GS4-07.Public/Civil Service Values and Ethics in Public Administration 10.0 GS4 Ethics
27 ‘International aid’ is an accepted form of helping ‘resource-challenged’ nations. Comment on ‘ethics in contemporary international aid’. Support your answer with suitable examples. Ethical Issues in International Relations and funding GS4-07.Public/Civil Service Values and Ethics in Public Administration 10.0 GS4 Ethics
28 Explain the term social capital. How does it enhance good governance? Accountability and Ethical Governance GS4-07.Public/Civil Service Values and Ethics in Public Administration 10.0 GS4 Ethics
29 ‘Probity is essential for an effective system of governance and socio-economic development.’ Discuss. Probity GS4-08.Probity in Governance 10.0 GS4 Ethics
30 In the context of work environment, differentiate between ‘coercion’ and ‘undue influence’ with suitable examples. Organisational Attitude GS4-03.Attitude: Content, Structure, Function; its Influence and Relation with Thought and Behaviour; Moral and Political Attitudes; Social Influence and Persuasion. 10.0 GS4 Ethics
Geography
31 Why is the world today confronted with a crisis of availability of and access to freshwater resources? Water Management GS1-15.Geographical features and their location- Changes in critical geographical features (including water-bodies and ice-caps) and in flora and fauna and the effects of such changes. 10.0 GS1 Geography
32 Discuss the consequences of climate change on the food security in tropical countries. GS1-15.Geographical features and their location- Changes in critical geographical features (including water-bodies and ice-caps) and in flora and fauna and the effects of such changes. 10.0 GS1 Geography
33 How are the fjords formed? Why do they constitute some of the most picturesque areas of the world? Geomorphology GS1-11.Salient Features of World Physical Geography 10.0 GS1 Geography
34 Comment on the resource potentials of the long coastline of India and highlight the status of natural hazard preparedness in these areas. Oil,Natural Resources GS1-12.Distribution of key Natural Resources (world, South Asia and Indian subcontinent) 15.0 GS1 Geography
35 Identify and discuss the factors responsible for diversity of natural vegetation in India. Assess the significance of wildlife sanctuaries in rain forests regions of India. Flora and Fauna GS1-15.Geographical features and their location- Changes in critical geographical features (including water-bodies and ice-caps) and in flora and fauna and the effects of such changes. 15.0 GS1 Geography
36 Why is the South-West monsoon called ‘Purvaiya’ (easterly) in Bhojpur Region? How has this directional seasonal wind system influenced the cultural ethos of the region? ClimatologyXMonsoon,ENSO,IOD GS1-11.Salient Features of World Physical Geography 10.0 GS1 Geography
Governance
37 Discuss the role of the Competition Commission of India in containing the abuse of dominant position by the Multi-National Corporations in India. Refer to the recent decisions. GS2-09.Appointment to various Constitutional posts; Constitutional Bodies(powers, functions and responsibilities); Statutory, Regulatory and Quasi-judicial bodies 10.0 GS2 Governance
38 e-governance, as a critical tool of governance, has ushered in effectiveness, transparency and accountability in governments. What inadequacies hamper the enhancement of these features? e-Governance GS2-15.Transaparency and accountability (institutional and other measures); Citizens Charter, E-Governance (applications, models, successes, limitations, potential) 10.0 GS2 Governance
39 Discuss the contribution of civil society groups for women’s effective and meaningful participation and representation in state legislatures in India. Civil Society GS2-11.Development processes and the development industry —the role of NGOs, SHGs, various groups and associations, donors, charities, institutional and other stakeholders. 15.0 GS2 Governance
Indian Society
40 Do you think marriage as a sacrament in losing its value in Modern India? Family GS1-06. Salient features of Indian Society; Diversity of India; 10.0 GS1 Indian Society
41 Does urbanization lead to more segregation and/or marginalization of the poor in Indian metropolises? PovertyXUrbanXMigration GS1-08.Urbanisation:problems and remedies 15.0 GS1 Indian Society
42 Explain why suicide among young women is increasing in Indian Society. Women GS1-07. Role of women and women’s organization, population and associated issues, poverty and developmental issues. 10.0 GS1 Indian Society
43 Why is caste identity in India both fluid and static? Caste System GS1-10.Social empowerment, communalism, regionalism & secularism. 15.0 GS1 Indian Society
44 Why did human development fail to keep pace with economic development in India? Population and associated issues GS1-07. Role of women and women’s organization, population and associated issues, poverty and developmental issues. 15.0 GS1 Indian Society
45 Discuss the impact of post-liberal economy on ethnic identity and communalism. Communalism GS1-10.Social empowerment, communalism, regionalism & secularism. 15.0 GS1 Indian Society
46 Child cuddling is now being replaced by mobile phones. Discuss its impact on the socialization of children. Family GS1-06. Salient features of Indian Society; Diversity of India; 10.0 GS1 Indian Society
Internal Security
47 Give out the major sources of terror funding in India and the efforts being made to curtail these sources. In the light of this, also discuss the aim and objective of the ‘No Money for Terror (NMFT)’ Conference recently held at New Delhi in November 2022. Organized Crime and Terrorism GS3-23.Security Challenges and their Management in Border Areas – Linkages of Organized Crime with Terrorism. 15.0 GS3 Internal Security
48 Winning of ‘Hearts and Minds’ in terrorism-affected areas is an essential step in restoring the trust of the population. Discuss the measures adopted by the Government in this respect as part of the conflict resolution in Jammu and Kashmir. Organized Crime and Terrorism GS3-23.Security Challenges and their Management in Border Areas – Linkages of Organized Crime with Terrorism. 10.0 GS3 Internal Security
49 What are the internal security challenges being faced by India? Give out the role of Central Intelligence and Investigative Agencies tasked to counter such threats. Security Forces mandate GS3-24. Various Security Forces and Agencies and their Mandate. 15.0 GS3 Internal Security
50 The use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) by our adversaries across the borders to ferry arms / ammunitions, drugs, etc., is a serious threat to internal security. Comment on the measures being taken to tackle this threat. Border Area Management GS3-23.Security Challenges and their Management in Border Areas – Linkages of Organized Crime with Terrorism. 10.0 GS3 Internal Security
International Relations
51 ‘Virus of Conflict is affecting the functioning of the SCO’. In the light of the above statement point out the role of India in mitigating problems. GroupingsXNeighbourhood GS2-18.Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests. 10.0 GS2 International Relations
52 Indian diaspora has scaled new heights in the West. Describe its economic and political benefits for India. Indian Diaspora GS2-19.Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora. 10.0 GS2 International Relations
53 ‘The expansion and strengthening of NATO and a stronger US-Europe strategic partnership works well in India.’ What is your opinion about this statement? Give reasons and examples to support your answer. GroupingsXRegional GS2-19.Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora. 15.0 GS2 International Relations
54 ‘Sea is an important Component of the Cosmos’. Discuss in the light of the above statement the role of the IMO(International Maritime Organisation) in protecting environment and enhancing maritime safety and security. United Nations,Agencies,Adjacent Bodies GS2-20.Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate. 15.0 GS2 International Relations
Modern History
55 What was the difference between Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore in their approach towards education and nationalism? Gandhi X Indian Leaders of Freedom Struggle GS1-02.Modern Indian History- Mid-18th century – Present (significant events, personalities, issues); 10.0 GS1 Modern History
56 How did the colonial rule affect the tribals in India and what was the tribal response to the colonial oppression? GS1-02.Modern Indian History- Mid-18th century – Present (significant events, personalities, issues); 15.0 GS1 Modern History
Polity
57 “Constitutionally guaranteed judicial independence is a prerequisite of democracy”. Comment. Separation of Powers GS2-03.Separation of Powers between different organs, dispute redressal mechanisms and institutions 10.0 GS2 Polity
58 Who are entitled to receive free legal aid? Assess the role of the National Legal Services Authority(NALSA) in rendering free legal aid in India. Alternate Dispute Resolution GS2-07.Structure, organization and functioning of the Executive and the Judiciary-Ministries and Departments of the Government; pressure groups and formal/informal associations and their role in the Polity 10.0 GS2 Polity
59 “The states in India seem reluctant to empower urban local bodies both functionally as well as financially.” Comment. Local Self-Government GS2-04.Devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein 10.0 GS2 Polity
60 Compare and contrast the British and Indian approaches to Parliamentary sovereignty. Constitutional Comparison GS2-05.Comparison of Indian constitutional scheme with other countries 10.0 GS2 Polity
61 Discuss the role of Presiding Officers of state legislatures in maintaining order and impartiality in conducting legislative work and in facilitating best democratic practices. ParliamentxPresiding Officers GS2-06.Parliament and State Legislatures (structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges; issues therein) 10.0 GS2 Polity
62 ”The Constitution of India is a living instrument with capabilities of enormous dynamism. It is a constitution made for a progressive society”. Illustrate with special reference to the expanding horizons of the right to life and personal liberty. GS2-01. Indian Constitution-Historical underpinnings & evolution; Features, amendments, significant provisions, basic structure of Constitution 15.0 GS2 Polity
63 Explain the constitutional perspectives of Gender Justice with the help of relevant Constitutional Provisions and case laws. Case Laws GS2-01. Indian Constitution-Historical underpinnings & evolution; Features, amendments, significant provisions, basic structure of Constitution 15.0 GS2 Polity
64 Account for the legal and political factors responsible for the reduced frequency of using Article 356 by the Union Governments since mid 1990s. Emergency GS2-02.Functions & responsibilities of the Union and the States; issues and challenges of federal structure; 15.0 GS2 Polity
65 Explain the significance of the 101st Constitutional Amendment Act. To what extent does it reflect the accommodative spirit of federalism? GS2-02.Functions & responsibilities of the Union and the States; issues and challenges of federal structure; 15.0 GS2 Polity
66 Explain the structure of the Parliamentary Committee system. How far have the financial committees helped in the institutionalization of Indian Parliament? ParliamentXCommittees GS2-06.Parliament and State Legislatures (structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges; issues therein) 15.0 GS2 Polity
Science and Technology
67 Discuss several ways in which microorganisms can help in meeting the current fuel shortage. Genetics,Biotechnology GS3-17.Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, Robotics, Nano-technology, Bio-technology and issues relating to Intellectual Property Rights. 10.0 GS3 Science and Technology
68 Introduce the concept of Artificial Intelligence (AI). How does AI help clinical diagnosis? Do you perceive any threat to privacy of the individual in the use of AI in healthcare? AI GS3-17.Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, Robotics, Nano-technology, Bio-technology and issues relating to Intellectual Property Rights. 10.0 GS3 Science and Technology
69 What is the main task of India’s third moon mission which could not be achieved in its earlier mission? List the countries that have achieved this task. Introduce the subsystems in the spacecraft launched and explain the role of the Virtual Launch Control Centre at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre which contributed to the successful launch from Srihari Kota. Space ProgramsXIND GS3-17.Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, Robotics, Nano-technology, Bio-technology and issues relating to Intellectual Property Rights. 15.0 GS3 Science and Technology
Social Justice
70 “Development and welfare schemes for the vulnerable, by its nature, are discriminatory in approach.” Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer. Efficacy of Welfare and Development Schemes GS2-12.Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes; mechanisms, laws, institutions and Bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections. 15.0 GS2 Social Justice
71 Skill development programs have succeed in increasing human resources supply to various sectors. In the context of the statement analyze the linkages between education, skill and employment. Human Resources GS2-13.Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources. 15.0 GS2 Social Justice
72 The crucial aspect of development process has been the inadequate attention paid to Human Resource Development in India. Suggest measures that can address this adequacy. Human Resources GS2-13.Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources. 10.0 GS2 Social Justice
World History
73 Bring out the socio-economic effects of the introduction of railways in different countries of the world. World History › Miscellaneous GS1-05.History of the world will include events from 18th century such as industrial revolution, world wars, redrawal of national boundaries, colonization, decolonization, political philosophies like communism, capitalism, socialism etc. 10.0 GS1 World History