UPSC Mains 2021 — All Papers & Questions

Evaluate the nature of the Bhakti Literature and its contribution to Indian culture.

Trace the rise and growth of socio-religious reform movements with special reference to Young Bengal and Brahmo Samaj.

Assess the main administrative issues and socio-cultural problems in the integration process of Indian Princely States.

Differentiate the causes of landslides in the Himalayan region and western Ghat. [150 Words, 10 Marks]

Despite India being one of the countries of Gondwanaland, its mining industry contributes much less to its Gross Domestic Products [GDP] in percentage. Discuss. [150 Words, 10 Marks]

‘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 judicial decisions.

Discuss the desirability of greater representation to women in the higher judiciary to ensure diversity, equity and inclusiveness.

How have the recommendations of the 14th Finance Commission of India enabled the states to improve their fiscal position?

To what extent, in your view, the Parliament is able to ensure accountability of the executive in India?

Pressure groups play a vital role in influencing public policy making in India.” Explain how the business associations contribute to public policies.

Explain the difference between computing methodology of India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) before the year 2015 and after the year 2015.

Distinguish between Capital Budget and Revenue Budget. Explain the components of both these Budgets.

How did land reforms in some parts of the country help to improve the socio-economic conditions of marginal and small farmers?

How and to what extent would micro-irrigation help in solving India’s water crisis?

How is S-400 air defence system technically superior to any other system presently available in the world?

Identify five ethical traits on which one can plot the performance of a civil servant. Justify their inclusion in the matrix.

Identify ten essential values that are needed to be an effective public servant. Describe the ways and means to prevent unethical behavior in the public servants.

Impact of digital technology as a reliable source of input for rational decision making is a debatable issue. Critically evaluate with suitable examples.

Besides domain knowledge, a public official needs innovativeness and creativity of a high order as well, while resolving ethical dilemmas. Discuss with suitable examples.

What does each of the following quotations mean to you? “Every work has to pass through hundreds of difficulties before succeeding. Those that persevere will see the light, sooner or later. -Swami Vivekananda