GS Paper I PYQs
295 mains questions (2013–2026) across 96 micro-themes, ranked by how often UPSC asks them — the themes at the top carry the most weight. Each question shows its year and marks. Filter by year to see how the paper's focus has shifted.
How this paper changed, 2013-2026
Each bar is one year's paper, split by the 5 most-asked themes. Themes that widen over time are where the paper-setter's attention is moving.
Marks mix per year
Share of 10-markers against longer questions, year by year. A widening marigold band means the paper is leaning into 15-markers.
- 201330
- 201425
- 201520
- 201620
- 201720
- 201820
- 201920
- 202020
- 202120
- 202220
- 202320
- 202420
- 202520
- 202620
Browse GS Paper I questions
295 questions
Geomorphology
12 questions- 202610 marks
Discuss the role of aeolian processes in desertification and land degradation.
- 202515 marks
Discuss how the changes in shape and sizes of continents and ocean basins of the planet take place due to tectonic movements of the crustal masses.
- 202310 marks
How are the fjords formed? Why do they constitute some of the most picturesque areas of the world?
- 202210 marks
Describe the characteristics and types of primary rocks.
- 202115 marks
Briefly mention the alignment of major mountain ranges of the world and explain their impact on local weather conditions, with examples.
- 202110 marks
Why is India considered as a subcontinent? Elaborate your answer. ?
- 202010 marks
Discuss the geophysical characteristics of Circum-Pacific Zone.
- 201810 marks
Define mantle plume and explain its role in plate tectonics.
- 201410 marks
Explain the formation of thousands of islands in Indonesian and Philippines archipelagos.
- 201410 marks
Why are the world's fold mountain systems located along the margins of continents? Bring out the association between the global distribution of Fold Moun- tains and the earthquakes and volcanoes.
- 20135 marks
What do you understand by the theory of continental drift? Discuss the prominent evidences in its support.
- 20135 marks
There is no formation of deltas by rivers of the Western Ghat. Why?
Oil, Natural Resources
12 questions- 202610 marks
"Water resources are both an asset and a source of conflict in South Asia." Examine this statement giving examples.
- 202515 marks
Discuss the distribution and density of population in the Ganga River Basin with special reference to land, soil and water resources.
- 202510 marks
Explain briefly the ecological and economic benefits of solar energy generation in India with suitable examples.
- 202515 marks
Give a geographical explanation of the distribution of off-shore oil reserves of the world. How are they different from the on-shore occurrences of oil reserves?
- 202315 marks
Comment on the resource potentials of the long coastline of India and highlight the status of natural hazard preparedness in these areas.
- 202210 marks
Discuss the natural resource potentials of 'Deccan Trap'.
- 202210 marks
Examine the potential of wind energy in India and explain the reasons for their limited spatial spread.
- 202015 marks
India has immense potential of solar energy though there are regional variations in its development. Elaborate.
- 201810 marks
Why is India taking keen interest in resources of Arctic Region?
- 201410 marks
How does India see its place in the economic space of rising natural resource rich Africa?
- 201310 marks
It is said the India has substantial reserves of shale oil and gas, which can feed the needs of country for quarter century. However, tapping of the resources doesn't appear to be high on the agenda. Discuss critically the availability and issues involved.
- 201310 marks
With growing scarcity of fossil fuels, the atomic energy is gaining more and more significance in India. Discuss the availability of raw material required for the generation of atomic energy in India and in the world.
Women
10 questions- 202410 marks
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?
- 202310 marks
Explain why suicide among young women is increasing in Indian Society.
- 202110 marks
Examine the role of ‘Gig Economy’ in the process of empowerment of women in India.
- 201915 marks
What are the continued challenges for women in India against time and space?
- 201910 marks
“Empowering women is the key to control population growth”. Discuss
- 201815 marks
Women's movement in India has not addressed the issues of women of lower social strata. Substantiate your view.
- 201410 marks
Discuss the various economic and socio-cultural forces that are driving increasing feminization of agriculture in India.
- 201410 marks
How does patriarchy impact the position of a middle class working woman in India?
- 201410 marks
Why do some of the most prosperous regions of India have an adverse sex ratio for women? Give your arguments.
- 201310 marks
Male membership needs to be encouraged in order to make women's organization free from gender bias. Comment.
Globalisation
10 questions- 202515 marks
How do you account for the growing fast food industries given that there are increased health concerns in modern society? Illustrate your answer with the Indian experience.
- 202510 marks
Do you think that globalization results in only an aggressive consumer culture?
- 202410 marks
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?
- 202215 marks
Elucidate the relationship between globalization and new technology in a world of scarce resources, with special reference to India.
- 202015 marks
Is diversity and pluralism in India under threat due to globalisation? Justify your answer.
- 201915 marks
Are we losing our local identity for the global identity? Discuss.
- 201815 marks
Globalization is generally said to promote cultural homogenization but due to this cultural specificities appear to be strengthened in the Indian Society. Elucidate.
- 201612.5 marks
To what extent globalization has influenced the core of cultural diversity in India? Explain.
- 201512.5 marks
Discuss the positive and negative effects of globalization on women in India.
- 201310 marks
Critically examine the effects of globalization on the aged population in India.
Water Management
10 questions- 202415 marks
The groundwater potential of the gangetic valley is on a serious decline. How may it affect the food security of India?
- 202310 marks
Why is the world today confronted with a crisis of availability of and access to freshwater resources?
- 202015 marks
The interlinking of rivers can provide viable solutions to the multi-dimensional inter-related problems of droughts, floods and interrupted navigation. Critically examine.
- 201915 marks
What is water stress? How and why does it differ regionally in India? ? : ?)
- 201815 marks
The ideal solution of depleting ground water resources in India is water harvesting system. How can it be made effective in urban areas?
- 201715 marks
In what way can flood be converted into a sustainable source of irrigation and all-weather inland navigation in India?
- 201612.5 marks
In what way micro-watershed Development projects help in water conservation in drought prone and semi-arid regions of India.
- 201612.5 marks
Present an account of the Indus Water Treaty and examine its ecological, economic and political implications in the context of changing bilateral relations.
- 201612.5 marks
The effective management of land and water resources will drastically reduce the human miseries. Explain
- 201512.5 marks
India is well endowed with fresh water resources. Critically examine why it still suffers from water scarcity.
Freedom Struggle Stages
8 questions- 202610 marks
Analyze the importance of Ashokan inscriptions for reconstructing Mauryan history.
- 202410 marks
What were the events that led to the Quit India Movement? Point out its results.
- 202115 marks
Bring out the constructive programmes of Mahatma Gandhi during Non-Cooperation Movement and Civil Disobedience Movement.
- 202015 marks
Since the decade of the 1920s, the national movement acquired various ideological strands and thereby expanded its social base. Discuss.
- 201915 marks
Assess the role of British imperial power in complicating the process of transfer of power during the 1940s.
- 201915 marks
Many voices had strengthened and enriched the nationalist movement during the Gandhian phase. Elaborate.
- 201910 marks
Examine the linkages between 19th centuries ‘Indian Renaissance’ and the emergence of national identity.
- 201715 marks
Highlight the importance of the new objectives that got added to the vision of Indian independence since twenties of the last century.
Diversity and pluralism
7 questions- 202610 marks
Unity in diversity remains the defining feature of Indian society despite the challenges from communalism and regionalism. Comment.
- 202415 marks
What is regional disparity? How does it differ from diversity? How serious is the issue of regional disparity in India?
- 202415 marks
Critically analyse the proposition that there is a high correlation between India’s cultural diversities and socio-economic marginalities.
- 202215 marks
Analyse the salience of 'sect' in Indian society vis-a-vis caste, region and religion.
- 201915 marks
Do we have cultural pockets of small India all over the nation? Elaborate with examples.
- 201710 marks
In the context of diversity of India, can it be said that the regions form cultural units rather than the States? Give reasons with examples for your viewpoint.
- 201512.5 marks
Describe any four cultural elements of diversity in India and rate their relative significance in building a national identity.
Secondary Sector
7 questions- 202015 marks
Account for the present location of iron and steel industries away from the source of raw material, by giving examples.
- 201910 marks
Can the strategy of regional-resource based manufacturing help in promoting employment in India?
- 201815 marks
What is the significance of Industrial Corridors in India? Identify industrial corridors, explain their main characteristics.
- 201715 marks
Petroleum refineries are not necessarily located nearer to crude oil producing areas, particularly in many of the developing countries. Explain its implications.
- 201410 marks
Account for the change in the spatial pattern of the Iron and Steel industry in the world.
- 20135 marks
Do you agree that there is a growing trend of opening new sugar mills in the Southern states of India? Discuss with justification
- 20135 marks
Analyze the factors for highly decentralized cotton textile industry in India
Gandhi x Indian Leaders of Freedom Struggle
6 questions- 202615 marks
Evaluate the impact of globalization on Indian youths with reference to social, political, economic and cultural spheres.
- 202310 marks
What was the difference between Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore in their approach towards education and nationalism?
- 201810 marks
Throw light on the significance of the thoughts of Mahatma Gandhi in the present times.
- 201612.5 marks
Highlight the differences in the approach of Subhash Chandra Bose and Mahatma Gandhi in the struggle for freedom.
- 201512.5 marks
Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, despite having divergent approaches and strategies, had a common goal of amelioration of the downtrodden. Elucidate.
- 201512.5 marks
How different would have been the achievement of Indian independence without Mahatma Gandhi? Discuss.
Population and associated issues
6 questions- 202615 marks
Critically examine the challenges of demographic transition in contemporary India.
- 202410 marks
What is the concept of a 'demographic winter'? Is the world moving towards such a situation? Elaborate.
- 202315 marks
Why did human development fail to keep pace with economic development in India?
- 202115 marks
Discuss the main objectives of Population Education and point out the measures to achieve them in India in detail.
- 201512.5 marks
Critically examine whether growing population is the cause of poverty OR poverty is the main cause of population increase in India.
- 201512.5 marks
Discuss the changes in the trends of labour migration within and outside India in the last four decades.
Oceanography
6 questions- 202215 marks
What are the forces that influence ocean currents? Describe their role in fishing industry of the world.
- 201915 marks
How do ocean currents and water masses differ in their impacts on marine life and the coastal environment? Give suitable examples?
- 201810 marks
What are the consequences of spreading of 'Dead Zones' on marine ecosystem?
- 201715 marks
Account for variations in oceanic salinity and discuss its multi-dimensional effects.
- 201512.5 marks
Explain the factors responsible for the origin of ocean currents. How do they influence regional climates, fishing and navigation?
- 201410 marks
Critically evaluate the various resources of the oceans which can be harnessed to meet the resource crisis in the world.
Primary sector
6 questions- 202510 marks
What are non-farm primary activities? How are these activities related to physiographic features in India? Discuss with suitable examples.
- 202215 marks
Describing the distribution of rubber producing countries, indicate the major environmental issues faced by them.
- 202110 marks
Despite India being one of the countries of the Gondwanaland, its mining industry contributes much less to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in percentage. Discuss.
- 201815 marks
Define blue revolution, explain the problems and strategies for pisciculture development in India.
- 201710 marks
In spite of adverse environmental impact, coal mining is still inevitable for development." Discuss.
- 201410 marks
Whereas the British planters had developed tea gardens all along the Shivaliks and Lesser Himalayas from Assam to Himachal Pradesh, in effect they did not succeed beyond the Darjeeling area. Explain.
1857 Revolt, other wars
5 questions- 201910 marks
The 1857 Uprising was the culmination the recurrent big and small local rebellions that had occurred in the preceding hundred years of British rule. Elucidate.
- 201710 marks
Clarify how mid-eighteenth century India was beset with the spectre of a fragmented polity.
- 201612.5 marks
Explain how the Uprising of 1857 constitutes an important watershed in the evolution of British policies towards colonial India.
- 201410 marks
In what ways did the naval mutiny prove to be the last nail in the coffin of British colonial aspirations in India?
- 201410 marks
The third battle of Panipat was fought in 1761. Why were so many empire-shaking battles fought at Panipat?
Family
5 questions- 202410 marks
Intercaste marriages between castes which have socio-economic parity have increased, to some extent, but this is less true of interreligious marriages. Discuss.
- 202310 marks
Do you think marriage as a sacrament in losing its value in Modern India?
- 202310 marks
Child cuddling is now being replaced by mobile phones. Discuss its impact on the socialization of children.
- 202210 marks
Explore and evaluate the impact of 'Work From Home' on family relationships.
- 201410 marks
The life cycle of a joint family depends on economic factors rather than social values. Discuss.
Caste System
5 questions- 202615 marks
Is caste disappearing in urban India? Illustrate your answer with examples.
- 202315 marks
Why is caste identity in India both fluid and static?
- 202010 marks
Has caste lost its relevance in understanding the multi-cultural Indian Society? Elaborate your answer with illustrations.
- 201810 marks
Caste system is assuming new identities and associational forms. Hence, caste system cannot be eradicated in India. Comment.
- 201512.5 marks
Debate the issue of whether and how contemporary movements for assertion of Dalit identity work towards annihilation of caste.
Cyclones
5 questions- 202610 marks
What is the Fujiwhara effect? Explain its impact on the movement and intensity of tropical cyclones.
- 202410 marks
What is sea surface temperature rise? How does it affect the formation of tropical cyclones?
- 202210 marks
Discuss the meaning of colour-coded weather warnings for cyclone prone areas given by India Meteorological Department.
- 201410 marks
Tropical cyclones are largely confined to South China Sea, Bay of Bengal and Gulf of Mexico. Why?
- 20135 marks
The recent cyclone on the east coast of India was called "Phailin". How are the tropical cyclones named across the world?
Cryosphere, Glacier Melting
5 questions- 202610 marks
"Tundra regions are ecologically fragile but economically important." Examine this statement critically.
- 202115 marks
How does the melting of the Arctic ice and glaciers of the Antarctic differently affect the weather patterns and human activities on the Earth? Explain. ?
- 202010 marks
How will the melting of Himalayan glaciers have a far-reaching impact on the water resources of India?
- 201710 marks
How does the cryosphere affect global climate?
- 201410 marks
Bring out the relationship between the shrinking Himalayan glaciers and the symptoms of climate change in the Indian sub-continent.
Bhakti and Sufi Movements
4 questions- 202610 marks
The significance of the Gandhian movements lay in the masses they mobilized. Elucidate.
- 202110 marks
Evaluate the nature of the Bhakti literature and its contribution to Indian culture.
- 201815 marks
The Bhakti movement received a remarkable re-orientation with the advent of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. Discuss.
- 201410 marks
Sufis and medieval mystic saints failed to modify either the religious ideas and practices or the outward structure of Hindu/Muslim societies to any appreciable extent. Comment.
Kingdoms
4 questions- 202510 marks
'The sculptors filled the Chandella artform with resilient vigor and breadth of life.' Elucidate.
- 202410 marks
Estimate the contribution of Pallavas of Kanchi for the development of art and literature of South India.
- 202010 marks
Pala period is the most significant phase in the history of Buddhism in India. Enumerate.
- 201710 marks
How do you justify the view that the level of excellence of Gupta numismatic art is not at all noticeable in later times?
Miscellaneous
4 questions- 202510 marks
The ethos of civil service in India stand for the combination of professionalism with nationalistic consciousness – Elucidate.
- 202310 marks
Explain the role of geographical factors towards the development of Ancient India.
- 202310 marks
Bring out the socio-economic effects of the introduction of railways in different countries of the world.
- 202015 marks
Customs and traditions suppress reason leading to obscurantism. Do you agree?
States Reorganization
4 questions- 202615 marks
Linguistic reorganization of Indian States was driven by popular pressure from below. Comment.
- 202215 marks
The political and administrative reorganization of states and territories has been a continuous ongoing process since the mid-nineteenth century. Discuss with examples.
- 201815 marks
Discuss whether the formation of new states in recent times is beneficial or not for the economy of India.
- 201612.5 marks
Has the formation of linguistic States strengthened the cause of Indian Unity?
Decolonisation
4 questions- 201710 marks
What problems were germane to the decolonization process of Malay Peninsula.
- 201612.5 marks
The anti-colonial struggles in West Africa were led by the new elite of Western-educated Africans. Examine.
- 201410 marks
What were the major political, economic and social developments in the world which motivated the anti-colonial struggle in India?
- 201310 marks
Africa was chopped into states artificially created by accident of European competition. Analyse.
Tribal Issues
4 questions- 202515 marks
Does tribal development in India centre around two axes, those of displacement and of rehabilitation? Give your opinion.
- 202210 marks
Given the diversities among tribal communities in India, in which specific contexts should they be considered as a single category ?
- 202110 marks
Examine the uniqueness of tribal knowledge system when compared with mainstream knowledge and cultural systems.
- 201512.5 marks
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?
Development and related issues
4 questions- 202515 marks
‘Achieving sustainable growth with emphasis on environmental protection could come into conflict with poor people’s needs in a country like India – Comment.
- 202410 marks
In dealing with socio-economic issues of development, what kind of collaboration between government, NGO's and private sector would be most productive?
- 202115 marks
What is Cryptocurrency? How does it affect global society? Has it been affecting Indian society also?
- 202015 marks
How have digital initiatives in India contributed to the functioning of the educational system in the country? Elaborate your answer.
Emerging Urbanisation Trends
4 questions- 202210 marks
How is the growth of Tier 2 cities related to the rise of a new middle class with an emphasis on the culture of consumption?
- 202115 marks
What are the main socio-economic implications arising out of the development of IT industries in major cities of India?.
- 201715 marks
The growth of cities as I.T. hubs has opened up new avenues employment but has also created new problems. Substantiate this statement with examples.
- 201310 marks
Discussion the various social problems which originated out of the speedy process of urbanization in India.
Urban Planning
4 questions- 201915 marks
How is efficient and affordable urban mass transport key to the rapid economic development of India? ?)
- 201815 marks
Mention core strategies for the transformation of aspirational districts in India and explain the nature of convergence, collaboration and competition for its success.
- 201612.5 marks
With a brief background of quality of urban life in India, introduce the objectives and strategy of the 'Smart City Programme'.
- 201512.5 marks
Smart cities in India cannot sustain without smart villages. Discuss this statement in the backdrop of rural urban integration.
Secularism
4 questions- 202215 marks
Are tolerance, assimilation and pluralism the key elements in the making of an Indian form of secularism? Justify your answer.
- 201910 marks
What are the challenges to our cultural practices in the name of secularism.
- 201810 marks
How the Indian concept of secularism is different from the western model of secularism? Discuss.
- 201410 marks
How do the Indian debates on secularism differ from the debates in the West?
Social empowerment
4 questions- 202610 marks
Do you think digital technology promotes social empowerment? Explain with examples.
- 202415 marks
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.
- 201710 marks
What are the two major legal initiatives by the State since Independence, addressing discrimination against Scheduled Tribes (STs)?
- 201612.5 marks
Why are the tribals in India referred to as the Scheduled Tribes? Indicate the major provisions enshrined in the Constitution of India for their upliftment.
Climatology x Monsoon, ENSO, IOD
4 questions- 202310 marks
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?
- 201715 marks
What characteristics can be assigned to monsoon climate that succeeds in feeding more than 50 percent of the world population residing in Monsoon Asia?
- 201512.5 marks
How far do you agree that the behavior of the Indian monsoon has been changing due to humanizing landscapes? Discuss.
- 201410 marks
Most of the unusual climatic happenings are explained as an outcome of the El-Nino effect. Do you agree?
Tertiary sector
4 questions- 202215 marks
Mention the significance of straits and isthmus in international trade.
- 201915 marks
How can the mountain ecosystem be restored from the negative impact of development initiatives and tourism?
- 201612.5 marks
Enumerate the problems and prospects of inland water transport in India.
- 201512.5 marks
The states of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand reaching the limits of their ecological carrying capacity due to tourism. Critically evaluate.
Flora and Fauna
4 questions- 202315 marks
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.
- 202015 marks
Examine the status of forest resources of India and its resultant impact on climate change.
- 201915 marks
Assess the impact of global warming on coral life system with examples.
- 201910 marks
Discuss the causes of depletion of mangroves and explain their importance in maintaining coastal ecology.
Architecture x Caves, Rock-cut
3 questions- 202615 marks
Vijayanagara architecture exemplifies the amalgamation of past traditions with contemporary practices. Elucidate with examples.
- 202010 marks
The rock-cut architecture represents one of the most important sources of our knowledge of early Indian art and history. Discuss.
- 201512.5 marks
Mesolithic rock cut architecture of India not only reflects the cultural life of the times but also a tine aesthetic sense comparable to modern painting. Critically evaluate this comment.
Buddhism and Jainism
3 questions- 201910 marks
Highlight the Central Asian and Greco -Bactrian elements in Gandhara art.
- 201612.5 marks
Early Buddhist Stupa-art, while depicting folk motifs and narratives successfully expounds Buddhist ideals. Elucidate.
- 201410 marks
Gandhara sculpture owed as much to the Romans as to the Greeks. Explain.
Indus Valley Civilization
3 questions- 202510 marks
Discuss the salient features of the Harappan architecture.
- 201512.5 marks
The ancient civilization in Indian sub-continent differed from those of Egypt, Mesopotamia and Greece in that its culture and traditions have been preserved without a breakdown to the present day. Comment.
- 201410 marks
To what extent has the urban planning and culture of the Indus Valley Civilization provided inputs to the present day urbanization? Discuss.
Movement x Social Reform
3 questions- 202515 marks
Mahatma Jotirao Phule's writings and efforts of social reforms touched issues of almost all subaltern classes. Discuss.
- 202110 marks
Trace the rise and growth of socio-religious reform movements with special reference to Young Bengal and Brahmo Samaj.
- 201715 marks
The women's questions arose in modern India as a part of the 19th century social reform movement. What were the major issues and debates concerning women in that period?
Consolidation after Independence
3 questions- 202615 marks
The model of planned economy was adopted in India to address the regional imbalances left behind by colonial rule. Comment.
- 202515 marks
Trace India’s consolidation process during early phase of independence in terms of polity, economy, education and international relations.
- 202110 marks
Assess the main administrative issues and socio-cultural problems in the integration process of Indian Princely States.
American and French Revolution
3 questions- 202515 marks
The French Revolution has enduring relevance to the contemporary world. Explain.
- 201915 marks
Explain how the foundations of the modern world were laid by the American and French revolution.
- 201310 marks
American Revolution was an economic revolt against mercantilism. Substantiate.
Industrial Revolution
3 questions- 202415 marks
How far was the Industrial Revolution in England responsible for the decline of handicrafts and cottage industries in India?
- 201512.5 marks
Why did the industrial revolution first occur in England? Discuss the quality of life of the people there during the industrialization. How does it compare with that in India at present?
- 201310 marks
Latecomer Industrial revolution in Japan involved certain factors that were markedly different from what west had experience.
World Wars
3 questions- 202415 marks
How far is it correct to say that the First World War was fought essentially for the preservation of balance of power?
- 202115 marks
“There arose a serious challenge to the Democratic State System between the two World Wars.” Evaluate the statement.
- 201512.5 marks
To what extent can Germany be held responsible for causing the two World Wars? Discuss critically
Uniqueness of Indian society
3 questions- 202115 marks
How does Indian society maintain continuity in traditional social values? Enumerate the changes taking place in it.
- 201910 marks
What makes Indian society unique in sustaining its culture? Discuss.
- 201715 marks
The spirit tolerance and love is not only an interesting feature of Indian society from very early times, but it is also playing an important part at the present. Elaborate.
Poverty
3 questions- 202010 marks
COVID-19 pandemic accelerated class inequalities and poverty in India. Comment.
- 201810 marks
Despite implementation of various programmes for eradication of poverty by the government in India, poverty is still existing.' Explain by giving reasons.
- 201612.5 marks
An essential condition to eradicate poverty is to liberate the poor from deprivation. Substantiate this statement with suitable examples
Poverty x Urban x Migration
3 questions- 202510 marks
How does smart city in India, address the issues of urban poverty and distributive justice?
- 202410 marks
Why do large cities tend to attract more migrants than smaller towns? Discuss in the light of conditions in developing countries.
- 202315 marks
Does urbanization lead to more segregation and/or marginalization of the poor in Indian metropolises?
Urban Water Management
3 questions- 202110 marks
What are the environmental implications of the reclamation of water bodies into urban land use? Explain with examples. ?
- 202015 marks
Account for the huge flooding of million cities in India including the smart ones like Hyderabad and Pune. Suggest lasting remedial measures.
- 201612.5 marks
Major cities of India are becoming more vulnerable to flood conditions. Discuss.
Communalism
3 questions- 202315 marks
Discuss the impact of post-liberal economy on ethnic identity and communalism.
- 201815 marks
Communalism arises either due to power struggle or relative deprivation. Argue by giving suitable illustrations.
- 201715 marks
Distinguish between religiousness/religiosity and communalism giving one example of how the former has got transformed into the latter in independent India.
Regionalism
3 questions- 202010 marks
Do you agree that regionalism in India appears to be a consequence of rising cultural assertiveness? Argue.
- 201612.5 marks
What is the basis of regionalism? Is it that unequal distribution of benefits of development on regional basis eventually promotes regionalism? Substantiate your answer.
- 201310 marks
Growing feeling of regionalism is an important factor in the generation of demand for a separate state. Discuss.
Landslides
3 questions- 202110 marks
Differentiate the causes of landslides in the Himalayan region and Western Ghats.
- 201612.5 marks
The Himalayas are highly prone to landslides. Discuss the causes and suggest suitable measures of mitigation.
- 20135 marks
Bring out the causes for more frequent landslides in the Himalayas than in Western Ghats
Climate Change
3 questions- 202510 marks
How are climate change and the sea level rise affecting the very existence of many island nations? Discuss with examples.
- 202310 marks
Discuss the consequences of climate change on the food security in tropical countries.
- 202010 marks
The process of desertification does not have climatic boundaries. Justify with examples.
Kingdoms x Chola
2 questions- 202415 marks
"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.
- 201310 marks
Chola architecture represents a high watermark in the evolution of temple architecture. Discuss.
Kingdoms x Kings
2 questions- 202510 marks
Examine the main aspects of Akbar’s religious syncretism.
- 201612.5 marks
Krishnadeva Raya, the King of Vijayanagar, was not only an accomplished scholar himself but was also a great patron of learning and literature. Discuss.
Sculptures
2 questions- 202210 marks
How will you explain that medieval Indian temple sculptures represent the social life of those days?
- 202215 marks
Discuss the significance of the lion and bull figures in Indian mythology, art and architecture.
Vedic Culture
2 questions- 202410 marks
Underline the changes in the field of society and economy from the Rig Vedic to the later Vedic period.
- 202315 marks
What are the main features of Vedic society and religion? Do you think some of the features are still prevailing in Indian society?
British Policies x Economic
2 questions- 201715 marks
Examine how the decline of traditional artisanal industry in colonial India crippled the rural economy.
- 201410 marks
Examine critically the various facets of economic policies of the British in India from mid-eighteenth century till independence.
Governor Generals
2 questions- 202010 marks
Evaluate the policies of Lord Curzon and their long term implications on the national movement.
- 201310 marks
In many ways, Lord Dalhousie was the founder of modern India. Elaborate.
Contribution x Moderates
2 questions- 202115 marks
To what extent did the role of the Moderates prepare a base for the wider freedom movement? Comment. ?
- 201710 marks
Why did the 'Moderates' fail to carry conviction with the nation about their proclaimed ideology and political goals by the end of the nineteenth century?
Contribution x Women
2 questions- 201612.5 marks
Discuss the role of women in the freedom struggle especially during the Gandhian phase.
- 201310 marks
Defying the barriers of age, gender and religion, the Indian women became the torch bearer during the struggle for freedom in India. Discuss.
Wars after Independence
2 questions- 201310 marks
Analyze the circumstances that led to Tashkent Agreement in 1966. Discuss the highlights of the agreement.
- 201310 marks
Critically examine the compulsions which prompted India to play a decisive roles in the emergence of Bangladesh.
World History Events
2 questions- 201410 marks
What were the events that led to the Suez Crisis in 1956? How did it deal a final blow to Britain's self-image as a world power?
- 201310 marks
What policy instruments were deployed to contain the great economic depression?
Climatolgy x Atmosphere
2 questions- 202215 marks
Troposphere is a very significant atmospheric layer that determines weather processes. How?
- 201612.5 marks
Discuss the concept of air mass and explain its role in macro-climatic changes.
Climatology x Wind and Pressure Systems
2 questions- 202615 marks
Compare the Loo, Chinook and Foehn winds with respect to their regions of prevalence, their nature and climatic impacts.
- 201310 marks
Major hot deserts in northern hemisphere are located between 20-30 degree north and on the western side of the continents. Why?
World Geography: Minerals, Oil and other Natural Resources
2 questions- 202115 marks
Discuss the multi-dimensional implications of uneven distribution of mineral oil in the world.
- 201512.5 marks
What are the economic significances of discovery of oil in Arctic Sea and its possible environmental consequences?
Buffer Stock & Food Security
2 questions- 202615 marks
Analyze the role of satellite-based technologies in achieving climate-smart agriculture and food security in India.
- 202315 marks
From being net food importer in 1960s, India has emerged as a net food exporter to the world. Provide reasons.
Land Use, Planning
2 questions- 202615 marks
Analyze the major drivers of human-induced land-use changes in India and their geographical consequences.
- 202515 marks
How can Artificial Intelligence (AI) and drones be effectively used along with GIS and RS techniques in locational and areal planning?
Political Geography
2 questions- 202615 marks
"The centre of global trade is gradually shifting from the Atlantic region to the Indo-Pacific region." Examine this statement.
- 201612.5 marks
South China Sea has assumed great geopolitical significance in the present context. Comment.
Urban Geography
2 questions- 201512.5 marks
Mumbai, Delhi and Kolkata are the three mega cities of the country but the air pollution is much more serious problem in Delhi as compared to the other two. Why is this so?
- 20135 marks
Bring out the causes for the formation of heat islands in the urban habitat of the world.
Ancient History x Education, Science, Medicine
1 question- 201410 marks
Taxila university was one of the oldest universities of the world with which were associated a number of renowned learned personalities of different disciplines. Its strategic location caused its fame to flourish, but unlike Nalanda, it is not considered as a university in the modern sense. Discuss.
Art forms x Dance
1 question- 201310 marks
Discuss the Tandava dance as recorded in the early Indian inscriptions.
Conservation of Indian Art & Heritage
1 question- 201810 marks
Safeguarding the Indian art heritage is the need of the moment. Discuss.
Foreign Travellers
1 question- 201810 marks
Assess the importance of the accounts of the Chinese and Arab travellers in the reconstruction of the history of India.
Historical Sources
1 question- 201310 marks
Though not very useful from the point of view of a connected political history of South India, the Sangam literature portrays the social and economic conditions of its time with remarkable vividness. Comment.
Kingdom x Chola x Gupta
1 question- 202215 marks
Discuss the main contributions of Gupta period and Chola period to Indian heritage and culture.
Kingdom x Sultanate
1 question- 202315 marks
What were the major technological changes introduced during the Sultanate period? How did those technological changes influence the Indian society?
Philosophical Schools
1 question- 202015 marks
Indian philosophy and tradition played a significant role in conceiving and shaping the monuments and their art in India. Discuss.
Sources x Literature
1 question- 202015 marks
Persian literary sources of medieval India reflect the spirit of the age. Comment.
British Policies x Armies
1 question- 202210 marks
Why did the armies of the British East India Company - mostly comprising of Indian soldiers-win consistently against the more numerous and better equipped armies of the then Indian rulers ? Give reasons.
British Policies x Famine
1 question- 202210 marks
Why was there a sudden spurt in famines in colonial India since the mid-eighteenth century ? Give reasons.
British Policies x Tribal
1 question- 202315 marks
How did the colonial rule affect the tribals in India and what was the tribal response to the colonial oppression?
Contribution x Foreigners
1 question- 201310 marks
Several foreigners made India their homeland and participated in various movements. Analyze their role in the Indian struggle for freedom.
Council Acts, Commissions
1 question- 201512.5 marks
It would have been difficult for the Constituent Assembly to complete its historic task of drafting the Constitution for Independent India in just three years but for the experience gained with the Government of India Act, 1935. Discuss.
Foreign influence on Independent India's Policies
1 question- 201410 marks
The New Economic Policy - 1921 of Lenin had influenced the policies adopted by India soon after independence. Evaluate.
Freedom Movement Personalities
1 question- 201310 marks
Discuss the contribution of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad to pre-and post-independent India.
Land Reforms
1 question- 201310 marks
Critically discuss the objectives of Bhoodan and Gramdan movements initiated by Acharya Vinoba Bhave and their success.
Slogan Based
1 question- 201310 marks
Write a critical note on the evolution and significance of the slogan "Jai Jawana Jai Kisan".
Indian Diaspora
1 question- 201815 marks
Why indentured labour was taken by the British from India to other colonies? Have they been able to preserve their cultural identity over there?
Climatology x Temperature Inversion
1 question- 20135 marks
What do you understand by the phenomenon of temperature inversion in meteorology? How does it affect the weather and the habitants of the place?
Food Processing Sector
1 question- 201910 marks
Discuss the factors for localization of agro-based food processing industries of North-West India.
Millets, Pulses
1 question- 201710 marks
Mention the advantages of the cultivation of pulse because of which the year 2016 was declared as the International Year of Pulses by the United Nations.
Revolutions and Missions
1 question- 201410 marks
Why did the Green Revolution in India virtually by-pass the eastern region despite fertile soil and good availability of water?
Space Programs x IND
1 question- 201810 marks
Why is Indian Regional Navigational Satellite System (IRNSS) needed? How does it help in navigation?
Aurora
1 question- 202415 marks
What are aurora australis and aurora borealis? How are these triggered?
Cloudbursts
1 question- 202410 marks
What is the phenomenon of 'cloudbursts'? Explain.
Tsunami
1 question- 202510 marks
What are Tsunamis? How and where are they formed? What are their consequences? Explain with examples.
Twisters
1 question- 202415 marks
What is a twister? Why are the majority of twisters observed in areas around the Gulf of Mexico?
Volcanic Activity
1 question- 202110 marks
Mention the global occurrence of volcanic eruptions in 2021 and their impact on regional environment. 2021
Space Programs x Intl
1 question- 201710 marks
How does the Juno Mission of NASA help to understand the origin and evolution of the Earth?
General
1 question- 202610 marks
Discuss the impact of Macaulay's Minute on colonial administration and education in India.
Disabled
1 question- 202610 marks
How do you understand disability? Substantiate the need for inclusive policy framework in India in this regard.
