UPSC Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science 2024 — Paper I
All 8 questions from UPSC Civil Services Mains Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science 2024 Paper I (400 marks total). Every stem reproduced in full, with directive-word analysis, marks, word limits, and answer-approach pointers.
8Questions
400Total marks
2024Year
Paper IPaper
Topics covered
Animal physiology, nutrition and ICT in animal husbandry (1)Energy measurement, growth curve and poultry nutrition (1)Mineral inter-relationships, circulatory system and animal feeding (1)Blood biochemistry, antinutritional factors and kidney anatomy (1)Animal breeding, reproduction and livestock management (1)Breeding male management, oestrus detection and disaster management (1)Fodder management, genetic traits and artificial insemination (1)Population genetics, NDDB and animal physiology (1)
A
Q1
50M150wCompulsorydiscussAnimal physiology, nutrition and ICT in animal husbandry
Answer the following questions in about 150 words each:
(a) Write about how secretion of hormones from anterior pituitary gland is regulated in animals? (10 marks)
(b) Discuss in brief about the physiological adjustment of camel in hot desert. (10 marks)
(c) Mention about the advantages and disadvantages of information and communication technology (I.C.T.) into animal husbandry. (10 marks)
(d) Discuss about the protein efficiency ratio. (10 marks)
(e) Describe Weende method of feed analysis. (10 marks)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
निम्नलिखित प्रत्येक प्रश्न का उत्तर लगभग 150 शब्दों में दीजिए :
(a) जानवरों में अग्र पीयूष (एण्टीरियर पिट्यूटरी) ग्रंथि से हार्मोन का स्राव कैसे नियंत्रित होता है, इसके बारे में लिखिए । (10 अंक)
(b) रेगिस्तान के गर्म वातावरण में, ऊँट के शारीरिक समायोजन के बारे में संक्षेप में चर्चा कीजिए । (10 अंक)
(c) पशुपालन में सूचना और संचार प्रौद्योगिकी (आई.सी.टी.) के फायदे और नुकसान के बारे में उल्लेख कीजिए । (10 अंक)
(d) प्रोटीन दक्षता अनुपात के बारे में चर्चा कीजिए । (10 अंक)
(e) पशु आहार विश्लेषण की वींडे विधि का वर्णन कीजिए । (10 अंक)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: UPSC Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science Paper 1. (a) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close | (b) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close | (c) comment: context > arguments both sides > judgment > close | (d) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close | (e) describe: define > structure or process in order > labelled diagram > significance Full marks: Precise terminology, complete mechanisms, balanced discussion, specific examples
50MdescribeEnergy measurement, growth curve and poultry nutrition
(a) Describe the measurement of energy retention by carbon-nitrogen balance technique. (15 marks)
(b) What is "growth curve"? Describe the different stages of growth curve in animals. (5+15=20 marks)
(c) Write about the nutrient requirement of chicken. (15 marks)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
(a) कार्बन-नाइट्रोजन संतुलन तकनीक द्वारा ऊर्जा प्रतिधारण की माप का वर्णन कीजिए । (15 अंक)
(b) "वृद्धि वक्र" क्या है ? जानवरों में वृद्धि वक्र के विभिन्न चरणों का वर्णन कीजिए । (5+15=20 अंक)
(c) मुर्गियों की पोषक तत्वों की आवश्यकता के बारे में लिखिए । (15 अंक)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science (Nutrition & Physiology). (a) describe: define > structure or process in order > labelled diagram > significance | (b) describe: define > structure or process in order > labelled diagram > significance | (c) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close Full marks: Precise definitions, correct physiological mechanisms, and specific poultry nutrition data.
Principle: energy is retained only as protein and fat (glycogen negligible)
N balance (intake − faecal − urinary N) × 6.25 gives protein retained
C balance (intake − faecal, urinary, CO₂ and CH₄ carbon) measured in a respiration chamber; carbon in retained protein subtracted to give fat retained
Energy retained from protein and fat energy values (ER kcal = 12.38 C − 4.63 N)
Define growth curve (cumulative live weight vs age; sigmoid)
Prenatal / lag phase
Self-accelerating phase up to the inflection point (maximum daily gain, near puberty)
Self-inhibiting (decelerating) phase and plateau at mature weight
50MdescribeMineral inter-relationships, circulatory system and animal feeding
(a) Describe about the copper-molybdenum-sulphur inter-relationship in ruminants. (15 marks)
(b) Write in detail about the components of circulatory system in animals. (15 marks)
(c) Explain about the feeding of breeding bulls. (10 marks)
(d) Discuss about the use and abuse of antibiotics as feed additives in swine feeding. (10 marks)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
(a) जुगाली करने वाले जानवरों में ताँबा-मोलिब्डेनम-सल्फर के अंतःसंबंध के बारे में वर्णन कीजिए । (15 अंक)
(b) जानवरों में परिसंचरण तंत्र के घटकों के बारे में विस्तार से लिखिए । (15 अंक)
(c) प्रजनन करने वाले साँड़ों के आहार के बारे में व्याख्या कीजिए । (10 अंक)
(d) सुअर के आहार में खाद्य योजक के रूप में एंटीबायोटिक दवाओं के उपयोग और दुरुपयोग के बारे में चर्चा कीजिए । (10 अंक)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science (Paper 1). (a) describe: define > structure or process in order > labelled diagram > significance | (b) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close | (c) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close | (d) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close Full marks: Comprehensive, accurate, and well-structured answers with specific examples and diagrams.
Define the antagonistic relationship between Cu and Mo
Explain the role of sulphur in forming thiomolybdates
Describe the formation of copper-molybdenum-sulphur complexes
Link the mechanism to copper deficiency symptoms
Identify the heart as the central pump
Describe the types of blood vessels (arteries, veins, capillaries)
Explain the function of blood as the transport medium
Describe the lymphatic system as a component
Define the objective: maintaining body condition and libido
Specify the energy and protein requirements for maintenance
Explain the role of forage in the diet
Mention the importance of minerals and vitamins (e.g., Vitamin E, Se)
Define the use of antibiotics as growth promoters
Explain the mechanism of action (e.g., gut flora modification)
Discuss the issue of antibiotic resistance
Mention the regulatory status (e.g., bans or restrictions)
50MdescribeBlood biochemistry, antinutritional factors and kidney anatomy
(a) Describe the various blood biochemical tests and discuss their importance in health status of animals. (20 marks)
(b) Classify antinutritional factors with suitable examples. (15 marks)
(c) Give the diagrammatic representation of kidney. (15 marks)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
(a) विभिन्न रक्त जैवरासायनिक परीक्षणों का वर्णन कीजिये और पशुओं की स्वास्थ्य स्थिति में उनके महत्व पर चर्चा कीजिये । (20 अंक)
(b) उपयुक्त उदाहरणों के साथ पोषण रोधी कारकों को वर्गीकृत कीजिये । (15 अंक)
(c) वृक्क का आरेखीय निरूपण कीजिये । (15 अंक)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Animal Husbandry Veterinary Science, Paper 1. (a) describe: define > structure or process in order > labelled diagram > significance | (b) enumerate: list the items in order > one line each > no commentary | (c) map: locate accurately > label > one line on why it matters Full marks: Comprehensive, accurate, well-structured with specific examples and clear diagrams
Define blood biochemical tests
List major tests (e.g., glucose, urea, creatinine, enzymes)
Explain importance in health status of animals
Link tests to specific physiological functions
Define antinutritional factors
Classify into categories (protein utilisation, mineral utilisation, antivitamins, miscellaneous toxic factors)
50M150wCompulsorydiscussAnimal breeding, reproduction and livestock management
Answer the following questions in about 150 words each:
(a) Mention the steps involved in cryopreservation of bull semen. (10 marks)
(b) Discuss the points to be considered during care and management of neonatal calf. (10 marks)
(c) Write the characteristics of Gir and Sahiwal cattle. (10 marks)
(d) Discuss the feeding strategies of goat for chevon production. (10 marks)
(e) Explain the breeding system used for pig production in India. (10 marks)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
निम्नलिखित प्रत्येक प्रश्न का उत्तर लगभग 150 शब्दों में दीजिए :
(a) सांड के बीज के क्रायोप्रिजर्वेशन में शामिल चरणों को उल्लेखित कीजिये । (10 अंक)
(b) नवजात बछड़े की देखभाल और प्रबंधन के दौरान ध्यान देने योग्य बिन्दुओं की चर्चा कीजिये । (10 अंक)
(c) गीर एवं साहीवाल गोधन की विशेषताएं लिखिए । (10 अंक)
(d) चिवोन उत्पादन के लिए बकरी की आहार रणनीतियों पर चर्चा कीजिये । (10 अंक)
(e) भारत में सुअर उत्पादन के लिए प्रयुक्त प्रजनन प्रणाली की व्याख्या कीजिये । (10 अंक)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science (Paper 1). (a) enumerate: list the items in order > one line each > no commentary | (b) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close | (c) write short notes: define > 3-4 key features > one example > one-line significance | (d) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close | (e) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close Full marks: Precise technical terms, correct sequence, specific examples, and clear distinction between breeds/systems.
Semen collection and evaluation
Dilution with cryoprotectant (e.g. glycerol)
Equilibration and packaging (straws)
Controlled-rate freezing and storage
Colostrum feeding (timing and volume)
Identification (ear tagging) and records
Navel care (cutting and iodine dip)
Housing and hygiene
Gir: Saurashtra origin, convex forehead, long pendulous ears, curled horns, red or spotted coat
Sahiwal: Montgomery (Punjab) origin, reddish-dun colour, loose skin, heavy dewlap, large udder
50MjustifyBreeding male management, oestrus detection and disaster management
(a) Justify the statement that "Maintenance of sires in good condition is essentially required for the success of breeding programmes". Discuss the important points for the management of breeding males in good condition. (10+10=20 marks)
(b) Describe the methods of oestrus detection in sheep. (10 marks)
(c) Enumerate different types of natural calamities which may be encountered by the livestock rearer. Draw strategies for feeding and management of livestock during natural calamities to minimize the production losses. (5+15=20 marks)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
(a) इस कथन की पुष्टि कीजिये, कि "प्रजनन कार्यक्रमों की सफलता के लिए अच्छी स्थिति में नर पशुओं का रखरखाव अनिवार्य रूप से आवश्यक है" । अच्छी स्थिति में नर प्रजनन के प्रबंधन के लिए महत्वपूर्ण बिन्दुओं पर चर्चा कीजिये । (10+10=20 अंक)
(b) भेड़ों में मद का पता लगाने की विधियों का वर्णन कीजिये । (10 अंक)
(c) विभिन्न प्रकार की प्राकृतिक आपदाओं की गणना कीजिये जिनका सामना पशुपालक को करना पड़ सकता है । उत्पादन हानि को कम करने के लिए प्राकृतिक आपदाओं के दौरान पशुधन के भोजन और प्रबंधन के लिए रणनीतियाँ बनाइये । (5+15=20 अंक)
Answer approach & key points
(a(i)) justify: claim > 3-4 reasons > evidence > conclusion | (a(ii)) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close | (b) describe: define > structure or process in order > labelled diagram > significance | (c(i)) enumerate: list the items in order > one line each > no commentary | (c(ii)) suggest: the problem in one line > implementable measures > who acts > conclusion Full marks: Comprehensive, specific, and well-structured answers with clear links to production economics and specific examples.
Link sire condition to semen quality
Connect to genetic gain/progress
Mention reproductive efficiency
Reference breeding programme success
Nutritional management (ration)
Housing and hygiene
Health management (vaccination)
Sexual conditioning/management
Behavioural signs of oestrus in ewes (seeking the ram, standing, tail wagging)
50MsuggestFodder management, genetic traits and artificial insemination
(a) Suggest the strategies which should be implemented by the dairy farmers to ensure round the year supply of green fodder. (15 marks)
(b) Differentiate between the following: (5×4=20 marks)
(i) Quantitative and qualitative traits
(ii) Sex limited and sex influenced characters
(iii) Production and reproductive traits
(iv) Anoestrus and repeat breeding
(c) Describe in detail the advantages and disadvantages of artificial insemination in animals. (15 marks)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
(a) उन रणनीतियों का सुझाव दीजिये, जिन्हें डेयरी किसानों द्वारा साल भर हरे चारे की आपूर्ति सुनिश्चित करने के लिए लागू किया जाना चाहिए। (15 अंक)
(b) निम्नलिखित के बीच विभेदन कीजिये : (5×4=20 अंक)
(i) मात्रात्मक एवं गुणात्मक लक्षण
(ii) लिंग सीमित एवं लिंग प्रभावित लक्षण
(iii) उत्पादन एवं प्रजनन लक्षण
(iv) एनइस्ट्रस एवं रिपीट (बारम्बार) प्रजनन
(c) पशुओं में कृत्रिम गर्भाधान के फायदे एवं नुकसान का विस्तार से वर्णन कीजिये। (15 अंक)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Define > Physiology or aetiology > Signs > Diagnosis and management. (a) suggest: the problem in one line > implementable measures > who acts > conclusion | (b(i)) compare: paired headings or point-wise contrast > key differences > significance > conclusion | (b(ii)) compare: paired headings or point-wise contrast > key differences > significance > conclusion | (b(iii)) compare: paired headings or point-wise contrast > key differences > significance > conclusion | (b(iv)) compare: paired headings or point-wise contrast > key differences > significance > conclusion | (c) describe: define > structure or process in order > labelled diagram > significance Full marks: Comprehensive, specific, and well-structured answers with named examples and clear differentiation
Sowing of short-duration fodder crops
Conservation techniques (silage, hay, green fodder blocks)
Use of high-yielding fodder varieties
Crop rotation and intercropping strategies
Definition of quantitative traits (polygenic, continuous)
Definition of qualitative traits (oligogenic, discrete)
Examples of each (e.g., milk yield vs coat color)
Mention of environmental influence on quantitative traits
Definition of sex-limited characters (expressed in one sex only)
Definition of sex-influenced characters (expressed in both sexes, dominance differs by sex)
Example of sex-limited (e.g., milk yield, cryptorchidism, hen feathering)
Example of sex-influenced (e.g., horns in sheep, scurs in cattle)
Definition of production traits (e.g., milk, meat, wool)
Definition of reproductive traits (e.g., fertility, calving interval)
Examples of each
Mention of economic importance of both
Definition of anoestrus (absence of oestrus cycles)
Definition of repeat breeding (failure to conceive after service)
Causes of anoestrus (e.g., post-partum, seasonal)
Causes of repeat breeding (e.g., infertility, poor management)
50MdescribePopulation genetics, NDDB and animal physiology
(a) Define gene frequency. Describe the method of estimation of gene frequency from genotypic frequency with the help of a suitable example. (20 marks)
(b) Write the role of NDDB in rural development. (10 marks)
(c) Write short notes on the following: (5×4=20 marks)
(i) Methane inhibitors
(ii) Role of rumen in feed fermentation
(iii) Chemical regulation of respiration
(iv) Blood-brain barrier
हिंदी में पढ़ें
(a) जीन आवृत्ति को परिभाषित कीजिये। उपयुक्त उदाहरण की सहायता से जीनोटाइपिक आवृत्ति से जीन आवृत्ति के आकलन की विधि का वर्णन कीजिये। (20 अंक)
(b) ग्रामीण विकास में एन.डी.डी.बी. की भूमिका के बारे में लिखिए। (10 अंक)
(c) निम्नलिखित पर संक्षिप्त टिप्पणी लिखे : (5×4=20 अंक)
(i) मीथेन अवरोधक
(ii) फीड किण्वन में रूमेन की भूमिका
(iii) श्वसन का रासायनिक नियमन
(iv) रक्त-मस्तिष्क अवरोधक
Answer approach & key points
(a) define: precise definition > the distinguishing feature > one example | (b) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close | (c(i)) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close | (c(ii)) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close | (c(iii)) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close | (c(iv)) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close Full marks: Precise definitions, stepwise calculations, specific examples, and clear links to production economics or national programmes.
Precise definition of gene frequency (allele frequency)
Method of estimation from genotypic frequency
Suitable example with calculation
Link to Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium
Definition of NDDB (National Dairy Development Board)