UPSC Mains 2022 — All Papers & Questions

How will you explain that medieval Indian temple sculptures represent the social life of those days?

Discuss the main contributions of Gupta period and Chola period to Indian heritage and culture.

Discuss the significance of the lion and bull figures in Indian mythology, art, and architecture.

Why was there a sudden spurt in famines in colonial India since the mid-eighteenth century? Give reasons.

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.

“Right of movement and residence throughout the territory of India are freely available to the Indian citizens, but these rights are not absolute.” Comment.

To what extent, in your opinion, has the decentralisation of power in India changed the governance landscape at the grassroots?

While the national political parties in India favour centralisation, the regional parties are in favour of State autonomy.” Comment.

Critically examine the procedures through which the Presidents of India and France are elected.

Discuss the role of the Vice–President of India as the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.

"Economic growth in the recent past has been led by increase in labour productivity." Explain this statement. Suggest the growth pattern that will lead to creation of more jobs without compromising labour productivity.

Is inclusive growth possible under market economy? State the significance of financial inclusion in achieving economic growth in India.

What is Integrated Farming System? How is it helpful to small and marginal farmers in India?

What are the major challenges of Public Distribution System (PDS) in India? How can it be made effective and transparent?

Elaborate the scope and significance of the food processing industry in India.

It is believed that adherence to ethics in human actions would ensure in smooth functioning of an organization/system. If so, what does ethics seek to promote in human life? How do ethical values assist in the resolution of conflicts faced by him in his day-to-day functioning?

Online methodology is being used for day-to-day meetings, institutional approvals in the administration and for teaching and learning in education sector to the extent telemedicine in the health sector is getting popular with the approvals of the competent authority. No doubt, it has advantages and disadvantages for both the beneficiaries and the system at large. Describe and discuss the ethical issues involved in the use of online method particularly to the vulnerable section of the society.

Apart from intellectual competency and moral qualities, empathy and compassion are some of the other vital attributes that facilitate the civil servants to be more competent in tackling the crucial issues or taking critical decisions. Explain with suitable illustrations.

The Rules and Regulations provided to all the civil servants are same, yet there is difference in the performance. Positive minded officers are able to interpret the Rules and Regulations in favour of the case and achieve success, whereas negative minded officers are unable to achieve goals by interpreting the same Rules and Regulations against the case. Discuss with illustrations.

"Ethics is knowing the difference between what you have the right to do and what is right to do." - Potter Stewart.

History is a series of victories won by the scientific man over the romantic man

Forests are the best case studies for economic excellence

Just because you have a choice, it does not mean that any of them has to be right.

A smile is the chosen vehicle for all ambiguities.

You cannot step twice in the same river.