All 8 questions from UPSC Civil Services Mains Anthropology 2021 Paper II (400 marks total). Every stem reproduced in full, with directive-word analysis, marks, word limits, and answer-approach pointers.
8Questions
400Total marks
2021Year
Paper IIPaper
Topics covered
Indian anthropology concepts and institutions (1)Archaeology and physical anthropology (1)Tribal anthropology and religion (1)Indian anthropology and tribal development (1)Contemporary tribal issues and concepts (1)Tribal rights and development issues (1)Tribal displacement and empowerment (1)Social change and tribal issues in India (1)
A
Q1
50M150wCompulsorywrite short notesIndian anthropology concepts and institutions
Write short notes on the following in about 150 words each:
(a) Purushartha and righteous living today (10 marks)
(b) Relevance of tribe-caste continuum (10 marks)
(c) Harappan seals (10 marks)
(d) Caste and social capital (10 marks)
(e) Factionalism and politics in rural India (10 marks)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
निम्नलिखित प्रत्येक पर लगभग 150 शब्दों में लघु टिप्पणी लिखिए :
(a) आज के परिवेश में पुरुषार्थ और न्यायसंगत जीवन (10 अंक)
(b) जनजाति-जाति सातत्य की प्रासंगिकता (10 अंक)
(c) हड़प्पन मोहरे (10 अंक)
(d) जाति और सामाजिक पूँजी (10 अंक)
(e) गुटबंदी और ग्रामीण भारत में राजनीति (10 अंक)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Anthropology Paper II: Define > Theory/School > Ethnographic Evidence > Indian Application. (a) write short notes: define > 3-4 key features > one example > one-line significance | (b) write short notes: define > 3-4 key features > one example > one-line significance | (c) write short notes: define > 3-4 key features > one example > one-line significance | (d) write short notes: define > 3-4 key features > one example > one-line significance | (e) write short notes: define > 3-4 key features > one example > one-line significance Full marks: Precise definitions, named scholars/sites, clear Indian application, within word limit.
50Mcritically discussArchaeology and physical anthropology
(a) Critically discuss the origin of Indus Valley Civilization. Mention the evidences of its endogenous origin from the pre-Harappan sites. (20 marks)
(b) Give the distribution and characteristic features of Upper Paleolithic culture in India. (15 marks)
(c) Discuss the morphological features and phylogenetic position of Ramapithecus. (15 marks)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
(a) सिन्धु घाटी सभ्यता की उत्पत्ति का समीक्षात्मक वर्णन कीजिए। पूर्व-हड़प्पन स्थलों से इसकी देशज उत्पत्ति के प्रमाणों का उल्लेख कीजिए। (20 अंक)
(b) भारत में उच्च पुरापाषाण संस्कृति के विस्तार और विशेषताओं का वर्णन कीजिए। (15 अंक)
(c) रामापिथेकस की आकृति-संबंधी विशेषताओं और जातिवृत्तीय स्थान का वर्णन कीजिए। (15 अंक)
Answer approach & key points
(a) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close | (b) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close | (c) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close Full marks: Comprehensive, critical, and specific; names sites, scholars, and features; uses diagrams where appropriate.
Critique of diffusionist (Mesopotamian) and indigenous origin theories
Evidence from Mehrgarh, Amri, Kot Diji and Kalibangan (endogenous continuity)
Continuity from pre-Harappan to Harappan phases
Mention of specific pre-Harappan sites (e.g., Hakra, Sothi)
Distribution across Andhra Pradesh, the Son-Belan valleys, Rajasthan and Gujarat
Features: blade-and-burin industry, bone tools, scrapers
Mention of specific sites (e.g., Renigunta, Kurnool caves)
Transition from Middle to Upper Palaeolithic
Morphology: short face, thick enamel, small canines, parabolic dental arch
Phylogenetic position: debate (ancestor vs. side branch)
(a) Explain the impact of the concept of nature-man-spirit complex on sustainable use of natural resources with suitable examples. (20 marks)
(b) Examine the contributions of S. C. Roy in highlighting the role of customary laws in tribal life. (15 marks)
(c) Critically assess the impact of Christianity on tribal culture and identity. (15 marks)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
(a) प्राकृतिक संसाधनों के सतत उपयोग पर प्रकृति-मानव-आत्मा संकुल अवधारणा के प्रभाव का उपयुक्त उदाहरण के साथ वर्णन कीजिए। (20 अंक)
(b) जनजातीय जीवन में प्रथानुगत विधि की भूमिका को प्रमुखता देने पर एस० सी० राय के योगदानों का परीक्षण कीजिए। (15 अंक)
(c) जनजातीय संस्कृति एवं अस्मिता पर ईसाईयत के प्रभाव का समीक्षात्मक मूल्यांकन कीजिए। (15 अंक)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: UPSC Anthropology Paper II (Sociology and Social Anthropology). (a) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close | (b) examine: intro > how/why with reasoning > evidence > conclusion | (c) critically evaluate: positives > negatives/limits > conditions/safeguards > conclusion Full marks: Comprehensive, well-structured, with specific examples and critical analysis.
Define the nature-man-spirit complex (animism/spiritual ecology)
Link spiritual beliefs to specific sustainable practices (e.g., sacred groves)
Provide at least two distinct Indian tribal examples
Explain the mechanism of social control via spiritual belief
Identify S.C. Roy's key works (The Mundas and Their Country, The Oraons of Chota Nagpur, The Birhors, Customs and Customary Law in British India)
Explain his documentation of Munda and Oraon customary law (khuntkatti tenure, parha and village panchayat justice)
Discuss his case for courts and administration to recognise customary law
Highlight his view that customary law is bound up with religion, kinship and land
Discuss the positive impacts (e.g., education, health, social reform)
Discuss the negative impacts (e.g., cultural erosion, identity crisis)
Analyze the impact on tribal identity (e.g., syncretism, conversion)
50MdiscussIndian anthropology and tribal development
(a) Discuss the contributions of N. K. Bose in understanding tribal communities and their place in Indian civilization. (20 marks)
(b) Discuss the role of Panchayati Raj Institutions in transforming traditional power hierarchy in rural India. (15 marks)
(c) Elucidate the problems and challenges in educational attainment of the Scheduled Tribes. (15 marks)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
(a) जनजातीय समुदायों और भारतीय सभ्यता में उनके स्थान को समझने में एन० के० बोस के योगदानों का वर्णन कीजिए। (20 अंक)
(b) ग्रामीण भारत में परंपरागत शक्ति सोपान को परिवर्तित करने में पंचायती राज संस्थानों की भूमिका का वर्णन कीजिए। (15 अंक)
(c) अनुसूचित जनजातियों को शैक्षणिक दक्षता प्राप्त करने में आने वाली समस्याओं और चुनौतियों को स्पष्ट कीजिए। (15 अंक)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Anthropology Paper II: Tribal India & Social Change. (a) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close | (b) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close | (c) challenges: 3-4 challenges > solutions mapped to them > conclusion Full marks: Precise theoretical application, named examples, and clear link to Indian context.
Define the 'Hindu method of tribal absorption' (1941)
Explain how tribes were gradually absorbed into the caste order
Link tribes to the wider Indian (Hindu) civilizational order
Mention his works (Cultural Anthropology; Culture and Society in India; Tribal Life in India)
Identify traditional hierarchies (Zamindar, Moneylender)
50M150wCompulsorywrite short notesContemporary tribal issues and concepts
Write short notes on the following in about 150 words each:
(a) Urbanization and tribal institutions (10 marks)
(b) Ethnic media and social awareness (10 marks)
(c) Cultural diversity and multiculturalism (10 marks)
(d) Concept of tribe and Indian census (10 marks)
(e) Politics of recognition and deprivation (10 marks)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
निम्नलिखित प्रत्येक पर लगभग 150 शब्दों में लघु टिप्पणी लिखिए :
(a) शहरीकरण और जनजातीय संस्थाएं (10 अंक)
(b) पारंपरिक संचार-माध्यम और सामाजिक जागरूकता (10 अंक)
(c) सांस्कृतिक बहुरूपता एवं बहुसंस्कृतिवाद (10 अंक)
(d) जनजाति की अवधारणा एवं भारतीय जनगणना (10 अंक)
(e) पहचान और वंचितकरण की राजनीति (10 अंक)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: UPSC Anthropology Paper II (Sociology of Indian Society). (a) write short notes: define > 3-4 key features > one example > one-line significance | (b) write short notes: define > 3-4 key features > one example > one-line significance | (c) write short notes: define > 3-4 key features > one example > one-line significance | (d) write short notes: define > 3-4 key features > one example > one-line significance | (e) write short notes: define > 3-4 key features > one example > one-line significance Full marks: Precise definitions, clear distinction between concepts, specific tribal examples, and strong analytical linkages.
(a) Discuss the impact of the Forest Rights Act (2006) on the livelihood and culture of tribal people in India. (20 marks)
(b) Examine the factors responsible for malnutrition in tribal India and suggest interventions required to overcome the problem. (15 marks)
(c) Delineate the factors influencing fertility in Indian population. (15 marks)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
(a) भारत के जनजातीय लोगों की आजीविका और संस्कृति पर वन अधिकार अधिनियम (2006) के प्रभाव का वर्णन कीजिए। (20 अंक)
(b) जनजातीय भारत में कुपोषण के उत्तरदायी कारकों का परीक्षण कीजिए और समस्या के समाधान हेतु हस्तक्षेपों को बताइए। (15 अंक)
(c) भारतीय जनसंख्या में जनन-क्षमता को प्रभावित करने वाले कारकों का उल्लेख कीजिए। (15 अंक)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: UPSC Anthropology Paper II (Socio-Cultural Anthropology). (a) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close | (b) examine: intro > how/why with reasoning > evidence > conclusion | (c) describe: define > structure or process in order > labelled diagram > significance Full marks: Comprehensive, well-structured, specific to tribal/Indian context, balanced, and well-supported with examples.
Define FRA 2006 and its core objective (rights over forest land)
Impact on livelihood: forest produce, land rights, economic security
Impact on culture: identity, traditional practices, social organization
Balanced view: benefits vs. implementation challenges
Factors: poverty, food insecurity, lack of healthcare, geography
Cultural factors: dietary habits, traditional food systems
Interventions: government schemes (Poshan 2.0/ICDS, PDS, MGNREGA)
Specific tribal context: remote areas, lack of infrastructure
(a) Explain the impact of successive Land Acquisition Acts on tribal social organization. (20 marks)
(b) Discuss the problems involved in rehabilitation and resettlement of tribals displaced due to development projects in India. (15 marks)
(c) Discuss the interventions made by the Non-Governmental Organizations for empowering tribal women. (15 marks)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
(a) जनजातीय सामाजिक संगठन पर आनुक्रमिक भूमि अधिग्रहण अधिनियमों के प्रभाव की व्याख्या कीजिए। (20 अंक)
(b) भारत में विकास परियोजनाओं के कारण विस्थापित जनजातियों को पुनर्वासित एवं पुनःस्थापित करने में आई समस्याओं का वर्णन कीजिए। (15 अंक)
(c) जनजातीय महिलाओं के सशक्तिकरण में गैर-सरकारी संगठनों के हस्तक्षेपों का वर्णन कीजिए। (15 अंक)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: UPSC Anthropology Paper II (Sociology of Tribes). (a) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close | (b) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close | (c) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close Full marks: Comprehensive, well-structured, with specific examples and critical analysis.
Trace evolution from 1894 Act to 2013 LARR Act
Link land alienation to loss of collective identity
Explain shift from community to individual ownership
Mention specific tribal displacement or alienation cases
Identify specific development projects (dams, mines, SEZs)
Analyze the 'compensation' vs 'rehabilitation' gap
Discuss loss of livelihood and cultural dislocation
Mention the role of the Rehabilitation and Resettlement (R&R) policy
Identify specific NGOs (e.g., PRADAN, SEWA, Seva Mandir, Foundation for Ecological Security)
Describe specific interventions (SHGs, skill training, legal aid)
Analyze the impact on economic and social status
Discuss the challenges faced by these interventions
50MexamineSocial change and tribal issues in India
(a) Examine how structural transformation in economy is affecting traditional social relationships in agrarian society. (20 marks)
(b) Delineate the constitutional safeguard for religious minorities in India. (15 marks)
(c) Identify the causes of tribal unrest with special reference to North-East India. (15 marks)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
(a) परीक्षण कीजिए कि कृषिक समाज की अर्थव्यवस्था में संरचनात्मक परिवर्तन, पारंपरिक सामाजिक संबंधों को कैसे प्रभावित कर रहा है। (20 अंक)
(b) भारत में धार्मिक अल्पसंख्यकों के लिए संवैधानिक सुरक्षा का उल्लेख कीजिए। (15 अंक)
(c) उत्तर-पूर्व भारत के विशेष संदर्भ में जनजातीय अशांति के कारणों को चिह्नित कीजिए। (15 अंक)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: UPSC Anthropology Paper II (Sociology & Social Anthropology). (a) examine: intro > how/why with reasoning > evidence > conclusion | (b) describe: define > structure or process in order > labelled diagram > significance | (c) analyse: intro > causes > effects > stakeholders/linkages > way forward Full marks: Comprehensive analysis with specific examples, named theories/articles, and clear connections between economic, social, and political dimensions
Define structural transformation in agrarian economy
Link economic change to social relationship shifts