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

Exam Year: 2024

73 questions

# Question Microtheme UPSC Syllabus Marks GS Paper Subject
Agriculture
1 What were the factors responsible for the successful implementation of land reforms in some parts of the country? Elaborate. Land Reforms GS3-11.Land Reforms in India 10.0 GS3 Agriculture
2 Explain the role of millets for ensuring health and nutritional security in India. 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: 10.0 GS3 Agriculture
3 What are the major challenges faced by Indian irrigation system in recent times? State the measures taken by the government for efficient irrigation management. Irrigation GS3-05.Different types of irrigation and irrigation systems 15.0 GS3 Agriculture
4 Elucidate the importance of buffer stocks for stabilizing agricultural prices in India. What are the challenges associated with the storage of buffer stock? Discuss. Buffer Stock & Food Security GS3-08.Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies and MSP; PDS 15.0 GS3 Agriculture
Art and Culture
5 Underline the changes in the field of society and economy from the Rig Vedic to the later Vedic period. Vedic Culture GS1-01. Indian Culture- Salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times. 10.0 GS1 Art and Culture
6 Estimate the contribution of Pallavas of Kanchi for the development of art and literature of South India. Kingdoms GS1-01. Indian Culture- Salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times. 10.0 GS1 Art and Culture
7 "Though the great Cholas are no more yet their name is still remembered with great pride because of their highest achievements in the domain of art and architecture." Comment. GS1-01. Indian Culture- Salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times. 15.0 GS1 Art and Culture
Disaster Management
8 What is disaster resilience? How is it determined? Describe various elements of a resilience framework. Also mention the global targets of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015-2030). Disaster Preparedness and Resilience GS3-19.Disaster and Disaster Management. 15.0 GS3 Disaster Management
9 Flooding in urban areas is an emerging climate-induced disaster. Discuss the causes of this disaster. Mention the features of two such major floods in the last two decades in India. Describe the policies and frameworks in India that aim at tackling such floods. Urban floods GS3-19.Disaster and Disaster Management. 15.0 GS3 Disaster Management
Economics
10 Examine the pattern and trend of public expenditure on social services in the post-reforms period in India. To what extent this has been in consonance with achieving the objective of inclusive growth? Inclusive GrowthXPublic Expenditure GS3-02.Inclusive growth and issues therein 10.0 GS3 Economics
11 What are the causes of persistent high food inflation in India? Comment on the effectiveness of the monetary policy of the RBI to control this type of inflation. RBIxFunctions GS3-01. Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment. 10.0 GS3 Economics
12 What is the need for expanding the regional air connectivity in India? In this context, discuss the government's UDAN Scheme and its achievements. GS3-13.Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc: 15.0 GS3 Economics
13 Discuss the merits and demerits of the four 'Labour Codes' in the context of labour market reforms in India. What has been the progress so far in this regard? Labour Reform GS3-12.Effects of liberalization on the economy, changes in industrial policy and their effects on industrial growth 15.0 GS3 Economics
Environment
14 Industrial pollution of river water is a significant environmental issue in India. Discuss the various mitigation measures to deal with this problem and also the government's initiatives in this regard. Water Pollution and Related Issues GS3-18.Conservation, Environmental Pollution and Degradation, Environmental Impact Assessment. 10.0 GS3 Environment
15 What role do environmental NGOs and activists play in influencing Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) outcomes for major projects in India? Cite four examples with all important details. EIA GS3-18.Conservation, Environmental Pollution and Degradation, Environmental Impact Assessment. 10.0 GS3 Environment
Ethics
16 "In Indian culture and value system, an equal opportunity has been provided irrespective of gender identity. The number of women in public service has been steadily increasing over the years." Examine the gender specific challenges faced by female public servants and suggest to increase their efficiency in discharging their duties and maintaining high standards of probity. Probity GS4-08.Probity in Governance 10.0 GS4 Ethics
17 Gobal warming and climate change are the outcomes of human greed in the name of development, indicating the direction in which extinction of organisms including human beings is heading towards loss of life on Earth. How do you put an end to this to protect life and bring equilibrium between the society and the environment ? Applied Ethics X Environment 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
18 "The concept of Just and Unjust is contextual. What was just a year back, may turn out to be unjust in today's context. Changing context should be constantly under scrutiny to prevent miscarriage of justice." Examine the above statement with suitable examples. Determinants of Ethics 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 The application of Artificial Intelligence as a dependable source of input for administrative rational decision-making is a debatable issue. Critically examine the statement from the ethical point of view. Applied EthicsXTech 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
20 influencing continuation of number of wars influencing continuation of number of wars "Ethics encompasses several key dimensions that are crucial in guiding individuals and organizations towards morally responsible behaviour." Explain the key dimensions of ethics that influence human actions Discuss how these dimensions shape ethical decision-making in the professional context. Determinants of Ethics 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
21 Mindless addiction to Form, ignoring the Substance of the matter, results in rendering of injustice. A perceptive civil servant is one who ignores such literalness and carries out true intent. Examine the above statement with suitable illustrations. AttitudeXPractical intelligence 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
22 "In law, a man is guilty when he violates the rights of others. In ethics, he is guilty if he only thinks of doing so." — Immanuel Kant GS4-05.Contributions of Moral Thinkers and Philosophers from India and World 10.0 GS4 Ethics
23 "Faith is of no avail in the absence of strength. Faith and strength, both are essential to accomplish any great work." — Sardar Patel GS4-05.Contributions of Moral Thinkers and Philosophers from India and World 10.0 GS4 Ethics
24 "Learn everything that is good from others, but bring it in, and in your own way absorb it, do not become others." — Swami Vivekananda Quote-basedXSwami Vivekananda GS4-05.Contributions of Moral Thinkers and Philosophers from India and World 10.0 GS4 Ethics
25 "It is not enough to talk about peace, one must believe in it; and it is not enough to believe in it, one must act upon it." In the present context, the major weapon industries of the developed nations are adversely influencing continuation of number of wars for their own self-interest, all around the world. What are the ethical considerations of the powerful nations in today's international arena to stop continuation of ongoing conflicts? Ethical Issues in International Relations and funding GS4-07.Public/Civil Service Values and Ethics in Public Administration 10.0 GS4 Ethics
26 "The 'Code of Conduct' and 'Code of Ethics' are the sources of guidance in public administration. There is code of conduct already in operation, whereas code of ethics is not yet put in place. Suggest a suitable model for code of ethics to maintain integrity, probity and transparency in governance. Codes of Ethics and Codes of Conduct GS4-08.Probity in Governance 10.0 GS4 Ethics
27 The soul of the new law, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) is Justice, Equality and Impartiality based on Indian culture and ethos. Discuss this in the light of major shift from a doctrine of punishment to justice in the present judicial system. Accountability and Ethical Governance GS4-07.Public/Civil Service Values and Ethics in Public Administration 10.0 GS4 Ethics
28 Mission Karmayogi is aiming for maintaining a very high standard of conduct and behaviour to ensure efficiency for serving citizens and in developing oneself. How will this scheme empower the civil servants in enhancing productive efficiency and delivering the services at the grassroots level? Accountability and Ethical Governance GS4-08.Probity in Governance 10.0 GS4 Ethics
Geography
29 What are aurora australis and aurora borealis? How are these triggered? GS1-14.Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc., 15.0 GS1 Geography
30 What is the phenomenon of 'cloudbursts'? Explain. Cloudbursts GS1-14.Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc., 10.0 GS1 Geography
31 What is sea surface temperature rise? How does it affect the formation of tropical cyclones? Cyclones GS1-14.Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc., 10.0 GS1 Geography
32 The groundwater potential of the gangetic valley is on a serious decline. How may it affect the food security of India? 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. 15.0 GS1 Geography
33 What is a twister? Why are the majority of twisters observed in areas around the Gulf of Mexico? GS1-14.Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc., 15.0 GS1 Geography
Governance
34 Public charitable trusts have the potential to make India's development more inclusive as they relate to certain vital public issues. Comment. Donor Agencies GS2-11.Development processes and the development industry —the role of NGOs, SHGs, various groups and associations, donors, charities, institutional and other stakeholders. 10.0 GS2 Governance
35 The Citizens'charter has been a land mark initiative in ensuring citizen-centric administration. But it is yet to reach its full potential. Identify the factors hindering the realisation of its promise and suggest measures to overcome them. Citizens Charter GS2-15.Transaparency and accountability (institutional and other measures); Citizens Charter, E-Governance (applications, models, successes, limitations, potential) 15.0 GS2 Governance
36 e-governance is not just about the routine application of digital technology in service delivery process. It is as much about multifarious interactions for ensuring transparency and accountability. In this context evaluate the role of the 'Interactive Service Model' of e-governance. e-Governance GS2-15.Transaparency and accountability (institutional and other measures); Citizens Charter, E-Governance (applications, models, successes, limitations, potential) 15.0 GS2 Governance
37 The Doctrine of Democratic Governance makes it necessary that the public perception of the integrity and commitment of civil servants becomes absolutely positive. Discuss. Civil Services GS2-16.Role of Civil Services in a democracy. 10.0 GS2 Governance
38 What are the aims and objects of the recently passed and enforced, The Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024? Whether University/State Education Board examinations, too, are covered under the Act? Transparency and Accountability GS2-15.Transaparency and accountability (institutional and other measures); Citizens Charter, E-Governance (applications, models, successes, limitations, potential) 15.0 GS2 Governance
Indian Society
39 What is regional disparity? How does it differ from diversity? How serious is the issue of regional disparity in India? Diversity and pluralism GS1-06. Salient features of Indian Society; Diversity of India; 15.0 GS1 Indian Society
40 Intercaste marriages between castes which have socio-economic parity have increased, to some extent, but this is less true of interreligious marriages. Discuss. Family GS1-06. Salient features of Indian Society; Diversity of India; 10.0 GS1 Indian Society
41 Distinguish between gender equality, gender equity and women's empowerment. Why is it important to take gender concerns into account in programme design and implementation? Women GS1-07. Role of women and women’s organization, population and associated issues, poverty and developmental issues. 10.0 GS1 Indian Society
42 What is the concept of a 'demographic winter'? Is the world moving towards such a situation? Elaborate. Population and associated issues GS1-07. Role of women and women’s organization, population and associated issues, poverty and developmental issues. 10.0 GS1 Indian Society
43 In dealing with socio-economic issues of development, what kind of collaboration between government, NGO's and private sector would be most productive? Development and related issues GS1-07. Role of women and women’s organization, population and associated issues, poverty and developmental issues. 10.0 GS1 Indian Society
44 Why do large cities tend to attract more migrants than smaller towns? Discuss in the light of conditions in developing countries. PovertyXUrbanXMigration GS1-08.Urbanisation:problems and remedies 10.0 GS1 Indian Society
45 Globalization has increased urban migration by skilled, young, unmarried women from various classes. How has this trend impacted upon their personal freedom and relationship with family? Globalisation GS1-09.Globalisation and its effects on Indian society 10.0 GS1 Indian Society
46 Despite comprehensive policies for equity and social justice, underprivileged sections are not yet getting the full benefits of affirmative action envisaged by the Constitution. Comment. Social empowerment GS1-10.Social empowerment, communalism, regionalism & secularism. 15.0 GS1 Indian Society
47 Critically analyse the proposition that there is a high correlation between India’s cultural diversities and socio-economic marginalities. Diversity and pluralism GS1-06. Salient features of Indian Society; Diversity of India; 15.0 GS1 Indian Society
Internal Security
48 Explain how narco-terrorism has emerged as a serious threat across the country. Suggest suitable measures to counter narco-terrorism. 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 Describe the context and salient features of the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 Data Protection GS3-22.Challenges to Internal Security through Communication Networks, Role of Media and Social Networking Sites in Internal Security Challenges, Basics of Cyber Security; Money-Laundering and its prevention. 10.0 GS3 Internal Security
50 Social media and encrypting messaging services pose a serious security challenge. What measures have been adopted at various levels to address the security implications of social media? Also suggest any other remedies to address the problem. Digital Media and Security Threats GS3-22.Challenges to Internal Security through Communication Networks, Role of Media and Social Networking Sites in Internal Security Challenges, Basics of Cyber Security; Money-Laundering and its prevention. 15.0 GS3 Internal Security
51 India has a long and troubled border with China and Pakistan fraught with contentious issues. Examine the conflicting issues and security challenges along the border. Also give out the development being undertaken in these areas under the Border Area Development Programme (BADP) and Border Infrastructure and Management (BIM) Scheme. Border Area Management GS3-23.Security Challenges and their Management in Border Areas – Linkages of Organized Crime with Terrorism. 15.0 GS3 Internal Security
International Relations
52 Critically analyse India's evolving diplomatic, economic and strategic relations with the Central Asian Republics (CARs) highlighting their increasing significance in regional and global geopolitics. GroupingsXNeighbourhood GS2-18.Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests. 10.0 GS2 International Relations
53 Discuss the geopolitical and geostrategic importance of Maldives for India with a focus on global trade and energy flows. Further also discuss how this relationship affects India's maritime security and regional stability amidst international competition? Bilateral Relations GS2-18.Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests. 10.0 GS2 International Relations
54 The West is fostering India as an alternative to reduce dependence on China's supply chain and as a strategic ally to counter China's political and economic dominance.' Explain this statement with examples. Geo-politics affecting India's Interest GS2-19.Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora. 10.0 GS2 International Relations
55 Terrorism has become a significant threat to global peace and security'. Evaluate the effectiveness of the United Nations Security Council's Counter-Terrorism Committee (CTC) and its associated bodies in addressing and mitigating this threat at the international level. United Nations,Agencies,Adjacent Bodies GS2-20.Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate. 15.0 GS2 International Relations
Modern History
56 What were the events that led to the Quit India Movement? Point out its results. Freedom Struggle Stages GS1-03. Freedom Struggle-various stages, important contributors/contributions from different parts of the country 10.0 GS1 Modern History
Polity
57 What changes has the Union Government recently introduced in the domain of Centre-State relations? Suggest measures to be adopted to build the trust between the Centre and the States and for strengthening federalism. GS2-02.Functions & responsibilities of the Union and the States; issues and challenges of federal structure; 15.0 GS2 Polity
58 Right to privacy is intrinsic to life and personal liberty and is inherently protected under Article 21 of the Constitution. Explain. In this reference discuss the law relating to D.N.A. testing of a child in the womb to establish its paternity. GS2-01. Indian Constitution-Historical underpinnings & evolution; Features, amendments, significant provisions, basic structure of Constitution 15.0 GS2 Polity
59 Analyse the role of local bodies in providing good governance at local level and bring out the pros and cons merging the rural local bodies with the urban local bodies. Local Self-Government GS2-04.Devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein 10.0 GS2 Polity
60 "The growth of cabinet system has practically resulted in the marginalisation of the parliamentary supremacy." Elucidate. Executive Vs Legislature GS2-03.Separation of Powers between different organs, dispute redressal mechanisms and institutions 10.0 GS2 Polity
61 Discuss India as a secular state and compare with the secular principles of the US constitution. Constitutional Comparison GS2-05.Comparison of Indian constitutional scheme with other countries 15.0 GS2 Polity
62 Explain the reasons for the growth of public interest litigation in India. As a result of it, has the Indian Supreme Court emerged as the world's most powerful judiciary? Judiciary 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 15.0 GS2 Polity
63 Explain and distinguish between Lok Adalats and Arbitration Tribunals. Whether they entertain civil as well as criminal cases ? 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
64 "The duty of the Comptroller and Auditor General is not merely to ensure the legality of expenditure but also its propriety." Comment. Polity › Comptroller and Auditor General CAG GS2-09.Appointment to various Constitutional posts; Constitutional Bodies(powers, functions and responsibilities); Statutory, Regulatory and Quasi-judicial bodies 10.0 GS2 Polity
65 Examine the need for electoral reforms as suggested by various committees with particular reference to "one nation-one election" principle. RPAxElectoral Reforms GS2-08.Salient features of the Representation of People’s Act. 10.0 GS2 Polity
Science and Technology
66 What is the present world scenario of intellectual property rights with respect to life materials? Although, India is second in the world to file patents, still only a few have been commercialized. Explain the reasons behind this less commercialization. IPR 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
67 What is the technology being employed for electronic toll collection on highways? What are its advantages and limitations? What are the proposed changes that will make this process seamless? Would this transition carry any potential hazards? Tech solutions for daily challenges GS3-15.Science and Technology- Developments and their Applications and Effects in Everyday Life. 10.0 GS3 Science and Technology
68 The world is facing an acute shortage of clean and safe freshwater. What are the alternative technologies which can solve this crisis? Briefly discuss any three such technologies citing their key merits and demerits. Tech in Crisis Management GS3-15.Science and Technology- Developments and their Applications and Effects in Everyday Life. 15.0 GS3 Science and Technology
69 What are asteroids? How real is the threat of them causing extinction of life? What strategies have been developed to prevent such a catastrophe? SpaceXTheory 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 In a crucial domain like the public healthcare system, the Indian State should play a vital role to contain the adverse impact of marketisation of the system. Suggest some measures through which the State can enhance the reach of public healthcare at the grassroots level. Health GS2-13.Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources. 15.0 GS2 Social Justice
71 Poverty and malnutrition create a vicious cycle, adversely affecting human capital formation. What steps can be taken to break the cycle? Poverty GS2-14.Issues relating to poverty and hunger 10.0 GS2 Social Justice
World History
72 How far was the Industrial Revolution in England responsible for the decline of handicrafts and cottage industries in India? Industrial Revolution 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. 15.0 GS1 World History
73 How far is it correct to say that the First World War was fought essentially for the preservation of balance of power? World Wars 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. 15.0 GS1 World History