UPSC Mains 2017 — All Papers & Questions

Clarify how mid-eighteenth century India was beset with the spectre of a fragmented polity.

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?

What problems are germane to the decolonization process in the Malay Peninsula? (10 marks, 150 words)

How does the Juno Mission of NASA help to understand the origin and evolution of earth? [150 Words, 10 Marks]

“In Spite of adverse environmental impact, coal mining is still inevitable for development”. Discuss. [150 Words, 10 Marks]

“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.

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.

‘Simultaneous election to the Lok Sabha and the State Assemblies will limit the amount of time and money spent in electioneering but it will reduce the government’s accountability to the people’ Discuss.

How do pressure groups influence Indian political process? Do you agree with this view that informal pressure groups have emerged as powerful as formal pressure groups in recent years?

Discuss the role of Public Accounts Committee in establishing accountability of the government to the people.

Among several factors for India’s potential growth, the savings rate is the most effective one. Do you agree? What are the other factors available for growth potential?

Account for the failure of the manufacturing sector in achieving the goal of labor-intensive exports. Suggest measures for more labor-intensive rather than capital – intensive exports.

Examine the development of airports in India through joint ventures under Public – private Partnership (PPP) model. What are the challenges faced by the authorities in this regard?

Explain various types of revolutions, took place in agriculture after Independence in India. How have these revolutions helped in poverty alleviation and food security in India?

What are the reasons for poor acceptance of cost-effective small processing unit? How the food processing unit will be helpful to uplift the socio-economic status of poor farmers?

Conflict of interest in the public sector arises when a) official duties, (b) public interest, and (c) personal interests are taking priority one above the other. How can this conflict in administration be resolved? Describe with an example.

Examine the relevance of the following in the context of civil service: (a) Transparency (b) Accountability (c) Fairness and justice (d) Courage of conviction (e) Spirit of service

Young people with ethical conduct are not willing to come forward to join active politics. Suggest steps to motivate them to come forward.

One of the tests of integrity is complete refusal to be compromised. Explain with reference to a real-life example.

Corporate social responsibility makes companies more profitable and sustainable. Analyse.