Pratidin

UPSC previous-year questions, mapped to current affairs

322 real UPSC Civil Services questions from 2013 onwards, each linked to the news stories that help you answer it, with notes on where each story fits in your answer.

Mains GS1 48

  1. 2026 "The centre of global trade is gradually shifting from the Atlantic region to the Indo-Pacific region." Examine this statement.
  2. 2026 Linguistic reorganization of Indian States was driven by popular pressure from below. Comment.
  3. 2026 Critically examine the challenges of demographic transition in contemporary India.
  4. 2025 Achieving sustainable growth with emphasis on environmental protection could come into conflict with poor people's needs in a country like India. Comment.
  5. 2025 Does tribal development in India centre around two axes, those of displacement and of rehabilitation? Give your opinion.
  6. 2025 How are climate change and the sea level rise affecting the very existence of many island nations? Discuss with examples.
  7. 2024 The groundwater potential of the Gangetic valley is on a serious decline. How may it affect the food security of India?
  8. 2024 Despite comprehensive policies for equity and social justice, underprivileged sections are not yet getting the full benefits of affirmative action envisaged by the Constitution…
  9. 2024 How far was the Industrial Revolution in England responsible for the decline of handicrafts and cottage industries in India?
  10. 2024 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?
  11. 2024 What is the concept of 'demographic winter'? Is the world moving towards such a situation? Elaborate.
  12. 2024 Underline the changes in the field of society and economy from the rig vedic to the later vedic period.
  13. 2023 Child cuddling is now being replaced by mobile phones. Discuss its impact on the socialization of children.
  14. 2023 Why is the world today confronted with a crisis of availability of and access to freshwater resources?
  15. 2023 Why did human development fail to keep pace with economic development in India?
  16. 2023 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?
  17. 2023 Why is caste identity in India both fluid and static?
  18. 2022 Are tolerance, assimilation, and pluralism the key elements in the making of an Indian form of secularism? Justify your answer.
  19. 2021 Differentiate the causes of landslides in the Himalayan region and Western Ghats.
  20. 2021 Despite India being one of the countries of the Gondwanaland, its mining industry contributes much less to its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in percentage. Discuss.
  21. 2021 Discuss the main objectives of Population Education and point out the measures to achieve them in India in detail.
  22. 2020 Has caste lost its relevance in understanding the multi-cultural Indian Society? Elaborate your answer with illustrations.
  23. 2019 What are the challenges to our cultural practices in the name of secularism?
  24. 2019 What is water stress? How and why does it differ regionally in India?
  25. 2019 What are the continued challenges for women in India against time and space?
  26. 2019 'Empowering women is the key to control population growth.' Discuss.
  27. 2018 "The ideal solution of depleting ground water resources in India is water harvesting system." How can it be made effective in urban areas?
  28. 2018 How the Indian concept of secularism different from the western model of secularism? Discuss.
  29. 2018 'Despite implementation of various programmes for eradication of poverty by the government in India, poverty is still existing'. Explain by giving reasons.
  30. 2018 "Caste system is assuming new identities and associational forms. Hence, caste system cannot be eradicated in India." Comment.
  31. 2018 Safeguarding the Indian art heritage is the need of the moment. Comment.
  32. 2017 Distinguish between religiousness/religiosity and communalism giving one example of how the former has got transformed into the latter in independent India.
  33. 2017 What characteristics can be assigned to monsoon climate that succeeds in feeding more than 50 percent of the world population residing in Monsoon Asia?
  34. 2017 'In spite of adverse environmental impact, coal mining is still inevitable for development.' Discuss.
  35. 2017 Examine how the decline of traditional artisanal industry in colonial India crippled the rural economy.
  36. 2017 What are the two major legal initiatives by the State since Independence addressing discrimination against Scheduled Tribes (STs)?
  37. 2017 How do you justify the view that the level of excellence of the Gupta numismatic art is not at all noticeable in later times?
  38. 2016 Has the formation of linguistic states strengthened the cause of Indian unity?
  39. 2016 'An essential condition to eradicate poverty is to liberate the poor from the process of deprivation.' Substantiate this statement with suitable examples.
  40. 2015 India is well endowed with fresh water resources. Critically examine why it still suffers from water scarcity.
  41. 2015 How do you explain the statistics that show that the sex ratio in Tribes in India is more favourable to women than the sex ratio among Scheduled Castes?
  42. 2015 How far do you agree that the behaviour of the Indian monsoon has been changing due to humanising landscape? Discuss.
  43. 2014 Most of the unusual climatic happenings are explained as an outcome of the El-Nino effect. Do you agree?
  44. 2014 Discuss the various economic and socio-cultural forces that are driving the increasing feminization of agriculture in India.
  45. 2014 Critically evaluate the various resources of the oceans which can be harnessed to meet the resource crisis in the world.
  46. 2014 Why do some of the most prosperous regions of India have an adverse sex ratio for women? Give your arguments.
  47. 2013 Bring out the causes for more frequent landslides in the Himalayas than in Western Ghats.
  48. 2013 Discuss the various social problems that originated out of the speedy process of urbanization in India.

Mains GS2 123

  1. 2026 Is the right to vote a fundamental right? Discuss the position of the Election Commission of India while undertaking the revision of electoral rolls. Can it also examine the…
  2. 2026 "BRICS acts as a powerful counterweight in global governance, actively amplifying the voice and influence of the Global South." Explain the role of BRICS in projecting itself as…
  3. 2026 How far has the Indian federal framework been successful in accommodating regional and cultural diversities? Highlight the role of asymmetric federalism and suggest measures to…
  4. 2026 To what extent do pressure groups, social movements and corporate lobbies deepen pluralistic democracy in India by representing excluded interests? Analyse whether the growing…
  5. 2026 Can the constitutional mandate of rights-based welfare be effectively realised in the context of non-integrated governance and minimal public investment? Examine.
  6. 2026 Discuss the position of the Governor in the federal polity of India. What is the nature of his power while giving assent to a bill passed by the State Legislature? Is he bound by…
  7. 2026 Right to privacy relating to self-identity is very dear to every human being and well protected under Article 21 of the Constitution. In this context, examine the effect of the…
  8. 2026 Should education be treated primarily as a welfare obligation of the state or as a strategic investment for building a globally competitive, knowledge-driven nation? Critically…
  9. 2026 "Women as a class neither belong to a minority group nor are they regarded as forming a backward class." In the light of this statement, discuss the evolution of women's…
  10. 2026 Analyse the advantages and limitations of the generalist structure of the Indian Civil Services in contemporary governance.
  11. 2026 "IPMDA (Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness) bridges the gap between India's SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision and the Quad's collective…
  12. 2025 "The reform process in the United Nations remains unresolved, because of the delicate imbalance of East and West and entanglement of the USA vs. Russo-Chinese alliance." Examine…
  13. 2025 Discuss the evolution of collegium system in India. Critically examine the advantages and disadvantages of the system of appointment of the Judges of the Supreme Court of India…
  14. 2025 "Constitutional morality is the fulcrum which acts as an essential check upon the high functionaries and citizens alike..." In view of the above observation of the Supreme Court…
  15. 2025 "Energy security constitutes the dominant kingpin of India's foreign policy, and is linked with India's overarching influence in Middle Eastern countries." How would you…
  16. 2025 Civil Society Organizations are often perceived as being anti-State actors than non-State actors. Do you agree? Justify.
  17. 2025 The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights has to address the challenges faced by children in the digital era. Examine the existing policies and suggest measures the…
  18. 2025 Indian Constitution has conferred the amending power on the ordinary legislative institutions with a few procedural hurdles. In view of this statement, examine the procedural and…
  19. 2025 Examine the evolving pattern of Centre-State financial relations in the context of planned development in India. How far have the recent reforms impacted the fiscal federalism in…
  20. 2025 Inequality in the ownership pattern of resources is one of the major causes of poverty. Discuss in the context of 'paradox of poverty'.
  21. 2025 Women's social capital complements in advancing empowerment and gender equity. Explain.
  22. 2024 Discuss India as a secular state and compare with the secular principles of the US constitution.
  23. 2024 '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…
  24. 2024 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…
  25. 2024 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.
  26. 2024 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…
  27. 2024 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…
  28. 2024 The Citizens' charter has been a landmark initiative in ensuring citizen-centric administration. But it is yet to reach its full potential. Identify the factors hindering the…
  29. 2024 Poverty and malnutrition create a vicious cycle, adversely affecting human capital formation. What steps can be taken to break the cycle?
  30. 2024 Explain and distinguish between Lok Adalats and Arbitration Tribunals. Whether they entertain civil as well as criminal cases?
  31. 2023 "Constitutionally guaranteed judicial independence is a prerequisite of democracy". Comment.
  32. 2023 "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…
  33. 2023 Skill development programs have succeeded in increasing human resources supply to various sectors. In the context of the statement analyze the linkages between education, skill…
  34. 2023 Account for the legal and political factors responsible for the reduced frequency of using Article 356 by the Union Governments since mid-1990s.
  35. 2023 Explain the constitutional perspectives of Gender Justice with the help of relevant Constitutional Provisions and case laws.
  36. 2023 "The states in India seem reluctant to empower urban local bodies both functionally as well as financially." Comment.
  37. 2023 Explain the significance of the 101st Constitutional Amendment Act. To what extent does it reflect the accommodative spirit of federalism?
  38. 2023 Discuss the contribution of civil society groups for women's effective and meaningful participation and representation in state legislatures in India.
  39. 2023 The crucial aspect of development process has been the inadequate attention paid to Human Resource Development in India. Suggest measures that can address this inadequacy.
  40. 2023 '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 the problems.
  41. 2022 Discuss the role of the Election Commission of India in the light of the evolution of the Model Code of Conduct.
  42. 2022 How will I2U2 (India, Israel, UAE and USA) grouping transform India's position in global politics?
  43. 2022 "Right of movement and residence throughout the territory of India are freely available to the Indian citizens, but these rights are not absolute." Comment.
  44. 2022 Discuss the role of the National Commission for Backward Classes in the wake of its transformation from a statutory body to a constitutional body.
  45. 2022 To what extent, in your opinion, has the decentralisation of power in India changed the governance landscape at the grassroots?
  46. 2022 The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009 remains inadequate in promoting incentive-based system for children's education without generating awareness…
  47. 2022 Reforming the government delivery system through the Direct Benefit Transfer Scheme is a progressive step, but it has its limitations too. Comment.
  48. 2022 "While the national political parties in India favour centralisation, the regional parties are in favour of State autonomy." Comment.
  49. 2022 Discuss the essential conditions for exercise of the legislative powers by the Governor. Discuss the legality of re-promulgation of ordinances by the Governor without placing…
  50. 2022 Besides the welfare schemes, India needs deft management of inflation and unemployment to serve the poor and the underprivileged sections of the society. Discuss.
  51. 2022 'Clean energy is the order of the day.' Describe briefly India's changing policy towards climate change in various international fora in the context of geopolitics.
  52. 2022 Do you think that BIMSTEC is a parallel organisation like the SAARC? What are the similarities and dissimilarities between the two? How are Indian foreign policy objectives…
  53. 2021 Though the Human Rights Commissions have contributed immensely to the protection of human rights in India, yet they have failed to assert themselves against the mighty and…
  54. 2021 Can Civil Society and Non-Governmental Organisations present an alternative model of public service delivery to benefit the common citizen? Discuss the challenges of this…
  55. 2021 Analyze the distinguishing features of the notion of Equality in the Constitutions of the USA and India.
  56. 2021 'Constitutional Morality' is rooted in the constitution itself and is founded on its essential facets. Explain the doctrine of 'Constitutional Morality' with the help of relevant…
  57. 2021 "Besides being a moral imperative of Welfare State, primary health structure is a necessary pre-condition for sustainable development." Analyze.
  58. 2021 The jurisdiction of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) regarding lodging an FIR and conducting probe within a particular state is being questioned by various States…
  59. 2021 Can the vicious cycle of gender inequality, poverty and malnutrition be broken through microfinancing of women SHGs? Explain with examples.
  60. 2021 Critically examine the aims and objectives of SCO. What importance does it hold for India?
  61. 2021 The newly tri-nation partnership AUKUS is aimed at countering China's ambitions in the Indo-Pacific region. Is it going to supersede the existing partnerships in the region?…
  62. 2021 How have the recommendations of the 14th Finance Commission of India enabled the States to improve their fiscal position?
  63. 2020 What is the significance of Indo-US defence deals over Indo-Russian defence deals? Discuss with reference to stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
  64. 2020 National Education Policy 2020 is in conformity with the Sustainable Development Goal-4 (2030). It intends to restructure and reorient education system in India. Critically…
  65. 2020 How far do you think cooperation, competition and confrontation have shaped the nature of federation in India? Cite some recent examples to validate your answer.
  66. 2020 The strength and sustenance of local institutions in India has shifted from their formative phase of 'Functions, Functionaries and Funds' to the contemporary stage of…
  67. 2020 "The incidence and intensity of poverty are more important in determining poverty based on income alone". In this context analyse the latest United Nations Multidimensional…
  68. 2020 'Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad)' is transforming itself into a trade bloc from a military alliance, in present times. Discuss.
  69. 2020 Recent amendments to the Right to Information Act will have a profound impact on the autonomy and independence of the Information Commission. Discuss.
  70. 2019 "Parliament's power to amend the Constitution is a limited power and it cannot be enlarged into absolute power." In the light of this statement explain whether Parliament under…
  71. 2019 What can France learn from the Indian Constitution's approach to secularism?
  72. 2019 "The reservation of seats for women in the institutions of local self-government has had a limited impact on the patriarchal character of the Indian Political Process." Comment.
  73. 2019 Performance of welfare schemes that are implemented for vulnerable sections is not so effective due to the absence of their awareness and active involvement at all stages of the…
  74. 2019 Despite Consistent experience of High growth, India still goes with the lowest indicators of human development. Examine the issues that make balanced and inclusive development…
  75. 2019 There is a growing divergence in the relationship between poverty and hunger in India. The shrinking of social expenditure by the government is forcing the poor to spend more on…
  76. 2019 On what grounds a people's representative can be disqualified under the Representation of People Act, 1951? Also, mention the remedies available to such a person against his…
  77. 2018 In the light of recent controversy regarding the use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVM), what are the challenges before the Election Commission of India to ensure the…
  78. 2018 What are the key areas of reform if the WTO has to survive in the present context of 'Trade War', especially keeping in mind the interest of India?
  79. 2018 Assess the importance of the Panchayat system in India as a part of local government. Apart from government grants, what sources the Panchayats can look out for financing…
  80. 2018 Appropriate local community level healthcare intervention is a prerequisite to achieve 'Health for All' in India. Explain.
  81. 2018 The Citizen's Charter is an ideal instrument of organisational transparency and accountability, but it has its own limitations. Identify the limitations and suggest measures for…
  82. 2018 How far do you agree with the view that the focus on lack of availability of food as the main cause of hunger takes the attention away from ineffective human development policies…
  83. 2018 How is the Finance Commission of India constituted? What do you know about the terms of reference of the recently constituted Finance Commission? Discuss.
  84. 2018 How far do you agree with the view that tribunals curtail the jurisdiction of ordinary courts? In view of the above, discuss the constitutional validity and competency of the…
  85. 2018 E-governance is not only about utilisation of the power of new technology, but also much about the critical importance of the 'use value' of information. Explain.
  86. 2017 To enhance the quality of democracy in India the Election Commission of India has proposed electoral reforms in 2016. What are the suggested reforms and how far are they…
  87. 2017 Critically examine the Supreme Court's judgement on 'National Judicial Appointments Commission Act, 2014' with reference to appointment of judges of higher judiciary in India.
  88. 2017 The question of India's Energy Security constitutes the most important part of India's economic progress. Analyze India's energy policy cooperation with West Asian Countries.
  89. 2017 Examine the scope of Fundamental Rights in the light of the latest judgement of the Supreme Court on Right to Privacy.
  90. 2017 "The local self-government system in India has not proved to be effective instrument of governance." Critically examine the statement and give your views to improve the situation.
  91. 2017 Explain the salient features of the constitution (One Hundred and First Amendment) Act, 2016. Do you think it is efficacious enough 'to remove cascading effect of taxes and…
  92. 2017 'Poverty Alleviation Programmes in India remain mere show pieces until and unless they are backed by political will'. Discuss with reference to the performance of the major…
  93. 2017 'To ensure effective implementation of policies addressing water, sanitation and hygiene needs, the identification of beneficiary segments is to be synchronized with the…
  94. 2017 Initially Civil Services in India were designed to achieve the goals of neutrality and effectiveness, which seems to be lacking in the present context. Do you agree with the view…
  95. 2017 Hunger and Poverty are the biggest challenges for good governance in India still today. Evaluate how far successive governments have progressed in dealing with these humongous…
  96. 2016 "In the Indian governance system, the role of non-state actors has been only marginal." Critically examine this statement.
  97. 2016 What was held in the Coelho case? In this context, can you say that judicial review is of key importance amongst the basic features of the Constitution?
  98. 2016 Discuss each adjective attached to the word 'Republic' in the 'Preamble'. Are they defendable in the present circumstances?
  99. 2016 The broader aims and objectives of WTO are to manage and promote international trade in the era of globalization. But the Doha round of negotiations seems doomed due to…
  100. 2016 Professor Amartya Sen has advocated important reforms in the realms of primary education and primary health care. What are your suggestions to improve their status and performance?
  101. 2015 Discuss the impediments India is facing in its pursuit of a permanent seat in UNSC.
  102. 2015 Examine critically the recent changes in the rules governing foreign funding of NGOs under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA), 1976.
  103. 2015 In the absence of well-educated and organised local level government system, Panchayats and Samitis have remained mainly political institutions and not effective instrument of…
  104. 2015 Public health system has limitation in providing universal health coverage. Do you think that private sector can help in bridging the gap? What other viable alternatives do you…
  105. 2015 The concept of cooperative federalism has been increasingly emphasised in recent years. Highlight the drawbacks in the existing structure and extent to which cooperative…
  106. 2015 In the light of the Satyam Scandal (2009), discuss the changes brought in corporate governance to ensure transparency and accountability.
  107. 2015 To achieve the desired objectives, it is necessary to ensure that the regulatory institutions remain independent and autonomous. Discuss in the light of experiences in the recent…
  108. 2014 What do you understand by the concept "freedom of speech and expression"? Does it cover hate speech also? Why do the films in India stand on a slightly different plane from other…
  109. 2014 Starting from inventing the 'basic structure' doctrine, the judiciary has played a highly pro active role in ensuring that India develops into a thriving democracy. In light of…
  110. 2014 Though the federal principle is dominant in our Constitution and that principle is one of its basic features, but it is equally true that federalism under the Indian Constitution…
  111. 2014 Though 100 percent FDI is already allowed in non-news media like a trade publication and general entertainment channel, the government is mulling over the proposal for increased…
  112. 2014 India has recently signed to become a founding member of New Development Bank (NDB) and also the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). How will the role of the two Banks…
  113. 2014 WTO is an important international institution where decisions taken affect countries in profound manner. What is the mandate of WTO and how binding are their decisions?…
  114. 2014 Two parallel run schemes of the Government, viz the Adhar card and NPR, one of voluntary and the other as compulsory, have led to debates at national levels and also litigations…
  115. 2013 Discuss Section 66A of IT Act, with reference to its alleged violation of Article 19 of the Constitution.
  116. 2013 Recent directives from Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas are perceived by the 'Nagas' as a threat to override the exceptional status enjoyed by the State. Discuss in light of…
  117. 2013 The Supreme Court of India keeps a check on arbitrary power of the Parliament in amending the Constitution. Discuss critically.
  118. 2013 Electronic cash transfer system for the welfare schemes is an ambitious project to minimize corruption, eliminate wastage and facilitate reforms. Comment.
  119. 2013 Though Citizens' charters have been formulated by many public service delivery organizations, there is no corresponding improvement in the level of citizens' satisfaction and…
  120. 2013 Discuss the recommendations of the 13th Finance Commission which have been a departure from the previous commissions for strengthening the local government finances.
  121. 2013 The product diversification of financial institutions and insurance companies, resulting in overlapping of products and services strengthens the case for the merger of the two…
  122. 2013 In respect of India-Sri Lanka relations, discuss how domestic factors influence foreign policy.
  123. 2013 The protests in Shahbag Square in Dhaka in Bangladesh reveal a fundamental split in society between the nationalists and Islamic forces. What is its significance for India?

Mains GS3 76

  1. 2026 What do you mean by Digital Rupee? In this context, explain the working and progress of India's Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC).
  2. 2026 Discuss how the contradiction between 'rapid infrastructure development' and 'disaster-risk reduction' in ecologically-sensitive areas of India can be managed, with suitable…
  3. 2026 Ladakh is strategically located between China and Pakistan. As a measure to win hearts and minds of locals, discuss the Border Area Development Programmes (BADP) by the Central…
  4. 2026 Explain the key challenges for India's energy security. What measures do you suggest for ensuring energy security along with economic growth and sustainability?
  5. 2026 Explain how fake news and disinformation pose threat to Internal Security and Public Order in Indian context? In this regard, discuss salient features of amendments in respect of…
  6. 2026 Examine the view that financial inclusion is an integral part of social and economic inclusion in a country like India. Also throw light on the usefulness of the R.B.I.'s…
  7. 2026 Discuss the different types of subsidies and supports provided by the Government of India to agricultural sector. Examine the related issues pertaining to Agreement on…
  8. 2026 How are startups in India promoting entrepreneurship, innovation and employment? Discuss the global and domestic challenges in their working and suggest suitable measures to…
  9. 2025 Discuss the rationale of the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme. What are its achievements? In what way can the functioning and outcomes of the scheme be improved?
  10. 2025 What are the challenges before the Indian economy when the world is moving away from free trade and multilateralism to protectionism and bilateralism? How can these challenges be…
  11. 2025 How can India achieve energy independence through clean technology by 2047? How can biotechnology play a crucial role in this endeavour?
  12. 2025 Examine the factors responsible for depleting groundwater in India. What are the steps taken by the government to mitigate such depletion of groundwater?
  13. 2025 Mineral resources are fundamental to the country's economy and these are exploited by mining. Why is mining considered an environmental hazard? Explain the remedial measures…
  14. 2025 India aims to become a semiconductor manufacturing hub. What are the challenges faced by the semiconductor industry in India? Mention the salient features of the India…
  15. 2025 Distinguish between the Human Development Index (HDI) and the Inequality-adjusted Human Development Index (IHDI) with special reference to India. Why is the IHDI considered a…
  16. 2025 What are the major challenges to internal security and peace process in the North-Eastern States? Map the various peace accords and agreements initiated by the government in the…
  17. 2024 Explain how narco-terrorism has emerged as a serious threat across the country. Suggest suitable measures to counter narco-terrorism.
  18. 2024 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…
  19. 2024 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…
  20. 2024 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.
  21. 2024 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?
  22. 2024 Describe the context and salient features of the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023.
  23. 2024 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…
  24. 2024 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…
  25. 2023 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.
  26. 2023 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.
  27. 2023 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 the…
  28. 2023 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…
  29. 2023 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…
  30. 2022 Discuss the types of organised crimes. Describe the linkages between terrorists and organised crime that exist at the national and transnational levels.
  31. 2022 Is inclusive growth possible under market economy? State the significance of financial inclusion in achieving economic growth in India.
  32. 2022 Do you think India will meet 50 percent of its energy needs from renewable energy by 2030? Justify your answer. How will the shift of subsidies from fossil fuels to renewables…
  33. 2022 Explain the causes and effects of coastal erosion in India. What are the available coastal management techniques for combating the hazard?
  34. 2021 How did land reforms in some parts of the country help to improve the socio-economic conditions of marginal and small farmers?
  35. 2021 Discuss how emerging technologies and globalisation contribute to money laundering. Elaborate measures to tackle the problem of money laundering both at national and…
  36. 2021 How and to what extent would micro-irrigation help in solving India's water crisis?
  37. 2021 Describe the key points of the revised Global Air Quality Guidelines (AQGs) recently released by the World Health Organisation (WHO). How are these different from its last update…
  38. 2021 Explain the purpose of the Green Grid Initiative launched at World Leaders Summit of the COP26 UN Climate Change Conference in Glasgow in November, 2021. When was this idea first…
  39. 2020 How does the draft Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2020 differ from the existing EIA Notification, 2006?
  40. 2020 Suggest measures to improve water storage and irrigation system to make its judicious use under depleting scenario.
  41. 2020 What are the major factors responsible for making rice-wheat system a success? In spite of this success how has this system become bane in India?
  42. 2020 What are the key features of the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) initiated by the Government of India?
  43. 2020 Explain the rationale behind the Goods and Services Tax (Compensation to States) Act of 2017. How has COVID-19 impacted the GST compensation fund and created new federal tensions?
  44. 2020 What are the salient features of the Jal Shakti Abhiyan launched by the Government of India for water conservation and water security?
  45. 2019 What is India's plan to have its own space station and how will it benefit our space programme?
  46. 2019 Do you agree with the view that steady GDP growth and low inflation have left the Indian economy in good shape? Give reasons in support of your arguments.
  47. 2019 Enumerate the indirect taxes which have been subsumed in the Goods and Services Tax (GST) in India. Also, comment on the revenue implications of the GST introduced in India since…
  48. 2019 Cross-border movement of insurgents is only one of the several security challenges facing the policing of the border in North-East India. Examine the various challenges currently…
  49. 2019 Elaborate the policy taken by the Government of India to meet the challenges of the food processing sector.
  50. 2018 How would the recent phenomena of protectionism and currency manipulations in world trade affect macroeconomic stability of India?
  51. 2018 India's proximity to two of the world's biggest illicit opium-growing states has enhanced her internal security concerns. Explain the linkages between drug trafficking and other…
  52. 2018 Sikkim is the first 'Organic State' in India. What are the ecological and economical benefits of Organic State?
  53. 2018 "Access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy is the sine qua non to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)". Comment on the progress made in India in this…
  54. 2018 Data security has assumed significant importance in the digitized world due to rising cyber-crimes. The Justice B. N. Srikrishna Committee Report addresses issues related to data…
  55. 2018 Examine the role of supermarkets in supply chain management of fruits, vegetables and food items. How do they eliminate number of intermediaries?
  56. 2017 Account for the failure of manufacturing sector in achieving the goal of labour-intensive exports rather than capital-intensive exports. Suggest measures for more…
  57. 2017 "Industrial growth rate has lagged behind in the overall growth of Gross-Domestic-Product (GDP) in the post-reform period" Give reasons. How far the recent changes in Industrial…
  58. 2017 India has achieved remarkable successes in unmanned space missions including the Chandrayaan and Mars Orbiter Mission, but has not ventured into manned space mission, both in…
  59. 2017 "Industrial growth rate has lagged behind in the overall growth of Gross-Domestic-Product(GDP) in the post-reform period" Give reasons. How far the recent changes is Industrial…
  60. 2017 The North-Eastern region of India has been infested with insurgency for a very long time. Analyze the major reasons for the survival of armed insurgency in this region.
  61. 2017 'Climate Change' is a global problem. How India will be affected by climate change? How Himalayan and coastal states of India will be affected by climate change?
  62. 2016 Discuss India's achievements in the field of Space Science and Technology. How the application of this technology has helped India in its socio-economic development?
  63. 2016 How globalization has led to the reduction of employment in the formal sector of the Indian economy? Is increased informalization detrimental to the development of the country?
  64. 2016 Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) is necessary for bringing unbanked to the institutional finance fold. Do you agree with this for financial inclusion of the poor section of…
  65. 2015 "Success of Make in India program depends on the success of Skill India programme and radical labour reforms." Discuss with logical arguments.
  66. 2015 'Success of 'Make in India' programme depends on the success of 'Skill India' programme and radical labour reforms.' Discuss with logical arguments.
  67. 2015 In what way could the replacement of price subsidy with direct benefit Transfer (DBT) change the scenario of subsidies in India? Discuss.
  68. 2015 To what factors can the recent dramatic fall in equipment cost and tariff of solar energy be attributed? What implications does the trend have for thermal power producers and…
  69. 2015 Livestock rearing has a big potential for providing non-farm employment and income in rural areas. Discuss suggesting suitable measures to promote this sector in India.
  70. 2014 Normally countries shift from agriculture to industry and then later to services, but India shifted directly from agriculture to services. What are the reasons for the huge…
  71. 2014 Drought has been recognised as a disaster in view of its spatial expanse, temporal duration, slow onset and lasting effect on various vulnerable sections. With a focus on the…
  72. 2014 Environmental Impact Assessment studies are increasingly undertaken before a project is cleared by the Government. Discuss the environmental impacts of coal-fired thermal plants…
  73. 2014 Should the pursuit of carbon credits and clean development mechanisms set up under UNFCCC be maintained even though there has been a massive slide in the value of a carbon…
  74. 2014 Scientific research in Indian universities is declining, because a career in science is not as attractive as business professions, engineering or administration, and the…
  75. 2014 In 2012, the longitudinal marking for high-risk areas for piracy was moved from 65 degrees east to 78 degrees east in the Arabian Sea by the International Maritime Organisation…
  76. 2013 What are the consequences of illegal mining? Discuss the Ministry of Environment and Forests' concept of GO AND NO GO zones for coal mining sector.

Mains GS4 2

  1. 2025 Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Program, MGNREGA was earlier known as National Rural Employment Scheme, NREGA. It is an Indian Social Welfare Program that…
  2. 2018 The Right to Information Act is not all about citizens' empowerment alone, it essentially redefines the concept of accountability. Discuss.

Mains Essay 4

  1. 2019 Neglect of primary health care and education in India are reasons for its backwardness
  2. 2017 Social media is inherently a selfish medium
  3. 2017 Farming has lost the ability to be a source of subsistence for majority of farmers in India.
  4. 2016 Cooperative federalism: Myth or reality

Prelims 69

  1. 2026 Consider the following statements about Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI): 1. MPI is calculated using Alkire-Foster methodology. 2. MPI calculated by NITI Aayog has a total of…
  2. 2026 Match List I with List II and select the answer using the code given below the Lists: List I (BIMSTEC Centre/Establishment): A. BIMSTEC Cultural Industries Observatory, B…
  3. 2025 Consider the following statements: I. India has joined the Minerals Security Partnership as a member. II. India is a resource-rich country in all the 30 critical minerals that it…
  4. 2025 Consider the following statements: I. Panchayats at the intermediate level exist in all States. II. To be eligible to be a Member of a Panchayat at the intermediate level, a…
  5. 2025 With reference to India, consider the following: I. The Inter-State Council II. The National Security Council III. Zonal Councils. How many of the above were established as per…
  6. 2025 Consider the following statements: I. The Constitution of India explicitly mentions that in certain spheres the Governor of a State acts in his/her own discretion. II. The…
  7. 2025 Consider the following statements with regard to BRICS: I. 16th BRICS Summit was held under the Chairship of Russia in Kazan. II. Indonesia has become a full member of BRICS…
  8. 2025 Consider the following statements in respect of BIMSTEC: I. It is a regional organization consisting of seven member States till January 2025. II. It came into existence with the…
  9. 2025 Which of the following statements with regard to recommendations of the 15th Finance Commission of India are correct? I. It has recommended grants of Rs 4,800 crores from the…
  10. 2024 Under which of the following Articles of the Constitution of India, has the Supreme Court of India placed the Right to Privacy? (a) Article 15 (b) Article 16 (c) Article 19 (d)…
  11. 2024 The total fertility rate in an economy is defined as: (a) the number of children born per 1000 people in the population in a year (b) the number of children born to a couple in…
  12. 2023 Consider the following activities: 1. Spreading finely ground basalt rock on farmlands extensively 2. Increasing the alkalinity of oceans by adding lime 3. Capturing carbon…
  13. 2023 Consider the following statements: Statement-I: The Supreme Court of India has held in some judgements that the reservation policies made under Article 16(4) of the Constitution…
  14. 2023 Consider the following statements: Statement-I: India's public sector health care system largely focuses on curative care with limited preventive, promotive and rehabilitative…
  15. 2023 Consider the following statements: Statement-I: India accounts for 3.2% of global export of goods. Statement-II: Many local companies and some foreign companies operating in…
  16. 2023 Consider the following statements: 1. According to the Constitution of India, the Central Government has a duty to protect States from internal disturbances. 2. The Constitution…
  17. 2023 Consider the following statements about G-20: 1. The G-20 group was originally established as a platform for the Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors to discuss the…
  18. 2022 With reference to India, consider the following statements: 1. Monazite is a source of rare earths. 2. Monazite contains thorium. 3. Monazite occurs naturally in the entire…
  19. 2022 With reference to the Indian economy, consider the following statements: 1. If the inflation is too high, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is likely to buy government securities. 2…
  20. 2022 With reference to Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, consider the following statements: 1. Private and public hospitals must adopt it. 2. As it aims to achieve universal health…
  21. 2022 Consider the following: 1. Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank 2. Missile Technology Control Regime 3. Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. India is a member of which of the above?
  22. 2022 With reference to the "G20 Common Framework", consider the following statements: 1. It is an initiative endorsed by the G20 together with the Paris Club. 2. It is an initiative…
  23. 2022 In India, which one of the following is responsible for maintaining price stability by controlling inflation? (a) Department of Consumer Affairs (b) Expenditure Management…
  24. 2022 Which one of the following is the context in which the term 'qubit' is mentioned? (a) Cloud Services (b) Quantum Computing (c) Visible Light Communication Technologies (d)…
  25. 2021 A legislation which confers on the executive or administrative authority an unguided and uncontrolled discretionary power in the matter of application of law violates which one…
  26. 2021 'Right to Privacy' is protected under which Article of the Constitution of India? (a) Article 15 (b) Article 19 (c) Article 21 (d) Article 29
  27. 2021 What is the position of the Right to Property in India? (a) Legal right available to citizens only (b) Legal right available to any person (c) Fundamental Right available to…
  28. 2021 With reference to the Indus river system, of the following four rivers, three of them pour into one of them which joins the Indus direct. Among the following, which one is such…
  29. 2021 With reference to 'palm oil', consider the following statements: 1. The palm oil tree is native to Southeast Asia. 2. The palm oil is a raw material for some industries producing…
  30. 2020 Consider the following statements: 1. The Constitution of India defines its 'basic structure' in terms of federalism, secularism, fundamental rights and democracy. 2. The…
  31. 2020 In which one of the following groups are all the four countries members of G20? (a) Argentina, Mexico, South Africa and Turkey (b) Australia, Canada, Malaysia and New Zealand (c)…
  32. 2020 In India, Legal Services Authorities provide free legal services to which of the following type of citizens? 1. Person with an annual income of less than Rs 1,00,000 2…
  33. 2020 Consider the following statements: 1. The weightage of food in Consumer Price Index (CPI) is higher than that in Wholesale Price Index (WPI). 2. The WPI does not capture changes…
  34. 2020 With reference to India's Desert National Park, which of the following statements are correct? 1. It is spread over two districts. 2. There is no human habitation inside the…
  35. 2020 Among the following Tiger Reserves, which one has the largest area under "Critical Tiger Habitat"? (a) Corbett (b) Ranthambore (c) Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam (d) Sunderbans
  36. 2019 Which Article of the Constitution of India safeguards one's right to marry the person of one's choice? (a) Article 19 (b) Article 21 (c) Article 25 (d) Article 29
  37. 2019 Consider the following pairs: Glacier : River 1. Bandarpunch : Yamuna 2. Bara Shigri : Chenab 3. Milam : Mandakini 4. Siachen : Nubra 5. Zemu : Manas Which of the pairs given…
  38. 2019 With reference to the Constitution of India, prohibitions or limitations or provisions contained in ordinary laws cannot act as prohibitions or limitations on the constitutional…
  39. 2019 Which one of the following is not the most likely measure the Government/RBI takes to stop the slide of Indian rupee? (a) Curbing imports of non-essential goods and promoting…
  40. 2018 Right to Privacy is protected as an intrinsic part of Right to Life and Personal Liberty. Which of the following in the Constitution of India correctly and appropriately imply…
  41. 2018 Consider the following statements: 1. The Parliament of India can place a particular law in the Ninth Schedule of the Constitution of India. 2. The validity of a law placed in…
  42. 2018 Consider the following statements: 1. As per the Right to Education (RTE) Act, to be eligible for appointment as a teacher in a State, a person would be required to possess the…
  43. 2018 If the President of India exercises his power as provided under Article 356 of the Constitution in respect of a particular State, then (a) the Assembly of the State is…
  44. 2018 Consider the following statements: 1. No criminal proceedings shall be instituted against the Governor of a State in any court during his term of office. 2. The emoluments and…
  45. 2017 Consider the following statements: 1. The Election Commission of India is a five-member body. 2. Union Ministry of Home Affairs decides the election schedule for the conduct of…
  46. 2017 Right to vote and to be elected in India is a (a) Fundamental Right (b) Natural Right (c) Constitutional Right (d) Legal Right
  47. 2017 'Broad-based Trade and Investment Agreement (BTIA)' is sometimes seen in the news in the context of negotiations held between India and (a) European Union (b) Gulf Cooperation…
  48. 2017 With reference to 'Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD)' sometimes mentioned in the news while forecasting Indian monsoon, which of the following statements is/are correct? 1. IOD…
  49. 2017 Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC)? 1. It decides the RBI's benchmark interest rates. 2. It is a 12-member body…
  50. 2017 Which of the following gives 'Global Gender Gap Index' ranking to the countries of the world? (a) World Economic Forum (b) UN Human Rights Council (c) UN Women (d) World Health…
  51. 2017 Consider the following statements: 1. India has ratified the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) of WTO. 2. TFA is a part of WTO's Bali Ministerial Package of 2013. 3. TFA came…
  52. 2016 'Gadgil Committee Report' and 'Kasturirangan Committee Report', sometimes seen in the news, are related to (a) constitutional reforms (b) Ganga Action Plan (c) linking of rivers…
  53. 2016 The term 'Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership' often appears in the news in the context of the affairs of a group of countries known as (a) G20 (b) ASEAN (c) SCO (d) SAARC
  54. 2016 The establishment of 'Payment Banks' is being allowed in India to promote Financial Inclusion. Which of the following statements is/are correct in this context? 1. Mobile…
  55. 2016 Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana is aimed at (a) bringing the small entrepreneurs into formal financial system (b) providing loans to poor farmers for cultivating particular crops (c)…
  56. 2016 Which of the following is/are the indicator/indicators used by IFPRI to compute the Global Hunger Index Report? 1. Undernourishment 2. Child stunting 3. Child mortality
  57. 2016 Consider the following statements: 1. New Development Bank has been set up by APEC. 2. The headquarters of New Development Bank is in Shanghai. Which of the statements given…
  58. 2016 Consider the following statements: 1. The International Solar Alliance was launched at the United Nations Climate Change Conference in 2015. 2. The Alliance includes all the…
  59. 2016 In the cities of our country, which among the following atmospheric gases are normally considered in calculating the value of Air Quality Index? 1. Carbon dioxide 2. Carbon…
  60. 2015 Convertibility of rupee implies: (a) Being able to convert rupee notes into gold (b) Allowing the value of rupee to be fixed by market forces (c) Freely permitting the conversion…
  61. 2015 The provisions in Fifth Schedule and Sixth Schedule in the Constitution of India are made in order to (a) protect the interests of Scheduled Tribes (b) determine the boundaries…
  62. 2015 'Pradhan Mantri Jan-Dhan Yojana' has been launched for (a) providing housing loan to poor people at cheaper interest rates (b) promoting women's Self-Help Groups in backward…
  63. 2015 The fundamental object of Panchayati Raj system is to ensure which among the following? 1. People's participation in development 2. Political accountability 3. Democratic…
  64. 2015 The terms 'Agreement on Agriculture', 'Agreement on the Application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures' and 'Peace Clause' appear in the news frequently in the context of the…
  65. 2015 With reference to the Fourteenth Finance Commission, which of the following statements is/are correct? 1. It has increased the share of States in the central divisible pool from…
  66. 2014 Consider the following languages: 1. Gujarati 2. Kannada 3. Telugu Which of the above has/have been declared as 'Classical Language / Languages' by the Government? (a) 1 and 2…
  67. 2014 What is/are the facility/facilities the beneficiaries can get from the services of Business Correspondent (Bank Saathi) in branchless areas? 1. It enables the beneficiaries to…
  68. 2014 With reference to a grouping of countries known as BRICS, consider the following statements: 1. The First Summit of BRICS was held in Rio de Janeiro in 2009. 2. South Africa was…
  69. 2014 With reference to Balance of Payments, which of the following constitutes/constitute the Current Account? 1. Balance of trade 2. Foreign assets 3. Balance of invisibles 4…