UPSC Mains 2020 — All Papers & Questions

The rock-cut architecture represents one of the most important sources of our knowledge of early Indian art and history. Discuss.

Pala period is the most significant phase in the history of Buddhism in India. Enumerate.

Evaluate the policies of Lord Curzon and their long term implications on the national movements.

Discuss the geophysical characteristic of the Circum- Pacific zone. [150 Words, 10 Marks]

The process of desertification does not have climate boundaries. Justify with examples. [150 Words, 10 Marks]

“There is a need for simplification of procedure for disqualification of persons found guilty of corrupt practices under the Representation of Peoples Act”. Comment.

“Recent amendments to the Right to Information Act will have a profound impact on the autonomy and independence of the Information Commission”. Discuss.

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.

The judicial systems in India and the UK seem to be converging as well as diverging in recent times. Highlight the key points of convergence and divergence between the two nations in terms of their judicial practices.

‘Once a Speaker, Always a Speaker’! Do you think this practice should be adopted to impart objectivity to the office of the Speaker of Lok Sabha? What could be its implications for the robust functioning of parliamentary business in India?

Explain intra-generational and inter-generational issues of equity from the perspective of inclusive growth and sustainable growth.

Define potential GDP and its determinants. What are the factors that have been inhibiting India from realizing its potential GDP?

What are the main constraints in transports and marketing of agricultural produce in India?

What are the challenges and opportunities in food processing sector in the country? How can income of the farmers be sustainably increased by encouraging food processing?

What do you understand by nanotechnology and how is it helping in health sector?

Discuss the role of ethics and values in enhancing the following three major components of Comprehensive National Power (CNP) viz. human capital, soft power (culture and policies) and social harmony.

“Education is not an injunction; it is an effective and pervasive tool for all round development of an individual and social transformation”. Examine the New Education Policy, 2020 (NEP, 2020) in light of the above statement.

“Hatred is destructive of a person’s wisdom and conscience that can poison a nation’s spirit.’ Do you agree with this view? Justify your answer.

What are the main components of emotional intelligence (EI)? Can they be learned? Discuss.

What teachings of Buddha are most relevant today and why? Discuss.