Q1 10M 150w Compulsory explain GDP methodology changes
Explain the difference between computing methodology of India's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) before the year 2015 and after the year 2015. (Answer in 150 words)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
भारत की सकल घरेलु उत्पाद (जी.डी.पी.) के वर्ष 2015 के पूर्व तथा वर्ष 2015 के पश्चात् परिकलन विधि में अंतर की व्याख्या कीजिए । (150 शब्दों में उत्तर दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: GS3 Economy: Carry live data, draw simple diagram. explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close Full marks: Precise comparison of base years, sectors, and data sources.
- Identify 2011-12 as the old base year
- Identify 2011-12 as the new base year
- Mention the change in the number of establishments
Q2 10M 150w Compulsory distinguish Capital and Revenue Budget
Distinguish between Capital Budget and Revenue Budget. Explain the components of both these Budgets. (Answer in 150 words)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
पूँजी बजट तथा राजस्व बजट के मध्य अंतर स्पष्ट कीजिए । इन दोनों बजटों के संघटकों को समझाइए । (150 शब्दों में उत्तर दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: null. compare: paired headings or table > key differences > significance > conclusion Full marks: Clear distinction with specific examples of components for both budgets.
- Define Capital Budget (assets/liabilities)
- Define Revenue Budget (income/expenditure)
- List Capital components (capital receipts/expenditure)
- List Revenue components (revenue receipts/expenditure)
Q3 10M 150w Compulsory explain Land reforms impact
How did land reforms in some parts of the country help to improve the socio-economic conditions of marginal and small farmers? (Answer in 150 words)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
देश के कुछ भागों में भूमि सुधारों ने सीमांत और लघु किसानों की सामाजिक-आर्थिक स्थिति को सुधारने के लिए किस प्रकार सहायता की है ? (150 शब्दों में उत्तर दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Situation > Analysis > Measures > Assessment. explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close Full marks: Detailed analysis of specific reforms (Zamindari, Tenancy, Ceilings) with clear link to socio-economic improvement.
- Abolition of intermediaries (Zamindari/Abolition of Intermediaries Act)
- Ceiling on land holdings and redistribution
- Tenancy reforms and security of tenure
- Consolidation of land holdings
Q4 10M 150w Compulsory explain Micro-irrigation and water crisis
How and to what extent would micro-irrigation help in solving India's water crisis? (Answer in 150 words)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
भारत के जल संकट के समाधान में, सूक्ष्म-सिंचाई कैसे और किस सीमा तक सहायक होगी ? (150 शब्दों में उत्तर दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Situation > Analysis > Measures > Assessment. explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close Full marks: Precise mechanism (drip/sprinkler) with quantified savings and clear limits (cost/land size).
- Explains 'how' via drip/sprinkler efficiency vs flood irrigation
- Quantifies 'extent' (e.g., 40-60% water saving)
- Links to 'more crop per drop' or water table recharge
- Identifies limits (e.g., high cost, small landholdings, maintenance)
Q5 10M 150w Compulsory how S-400 air defence system
How is S-400 air defence system technically superior to any other system presently available in the world? (Answer in 150 words)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
S-400 हवाई रक्षा प्रणाली, विश्व में इस समय उपलब्ध अन्य किसी प्रणाली की तुलना में किस प्रकार से तकनीकी रूप से श्रेष्ठ है ? (150 शब्दों में उत्तर दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Security: classify threat, vulnerability, response; stay calm. explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close Full marks: Precise technical comparison with specific capabilities (range, radar, missiles)
- Multi-layered engagement (short, medium, long range)
- Simultaneous tracking and engagement of multiple targets
- Active radar guidance (fire-and-forget capability)
- Counter-stealth and anti-cruise missile capability
Q6 10M 150w Compulsory explain Green Grid Initiative COP26
Explain the purpose of the Green Grid Initiative launched at World Leaders Summit of the COP26 UN Climate Change Conference in Glasgow in November, 2021. When was this idea first floated in the International Solar Alliance (ISA)? (Answer in 150 words)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
नवम्बर, 2021 में ग्लासगो में विश्व के नेताओं के शिखर सम्मेलन में सी.ओ.पी. 26 संयुक्त राष्ट्र जलवायु परिवर्तन सम्मेलन में, आरम्भ की गई हरित ग्रिड पहल का प्रयोजन स्पष्ट कीजिए । अंतर्राष्ट्रीय सौर गठबंधन (आई.एस.ए.) में यह विचार पहली बार कब दिया गया था ? (150 शब्दों में उत्तर दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: GS3 Environment: Threat, Causes, Impact, Mitigation. explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close Full marks: Precisely defines the 100% renewable grid purpose and correctly identifies the 2019 ISA Annual Conference as the origin.
- Define Green Grid Initiative as a 100% renewable energy grid
- State purpose: decarbonize power sector and accelerate clean energy transition
- Identify ISA as the platform where the idea was first floated
- Mention the specific year the idea was first discussed in ISA
Q7 10M 150w Compulsory describe WHO Air Quality Guidelines
Describe the key points of the revised Global Air Quality Guidelines (AQGs) recently released by the World Health Organisation (WHO). How are these different from its last update in 2005? What changes in India's National Clean Air Programme are required to achieve these revised standards? (Answer in 150 words)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
विश्व स्वास्थ्य संगठन (डब्ल्यू.एच.ओ.) द्वारा हाल ही में जारी किए गए संशोधित वैश्विक वायु गुणवत्ता दिशानिर्देशों (ए.क्यू.जी.) के मुख्य बिंदुओं का वर्णन कीजिए। विगत 2005 के अद्यतन से, ये किस प्रकार भिन्न हैं ? इन संशोधित मानकों को प्राप्त करने के लिए, भारत के राष्ट्रीय स्वच्छ वायु कार्यक्रम में किन परिवर्तनों की आवश्यकता है ? (150 शब्दों में उत्तर दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: GS3 Environment: threat, causes, impact, mitigation. describe: define > structure or process in order > labelled diagram > significance Full marks: Precise comparison of 2005/2021 limits and specific, implementable NCAP policy shifts.
- Mentions specific pollutants (PM2.5, NO2, O3) in revised guidelines
- Notes the significant reduction in permissible limits vs 2005
- Identifies NCAP's current 20% reduction target as insufficient
- Suggests specific NCAP changes (e.g., stricter targets, sectoral plans)
Q8 10M 150w Compulsory discuss Earthquake vulnerability India
Discuss about the vulnerability of India to earthquake related hazards. Give examples including the salient features of major disasters caused by earthquakes in different parts of India during the last three decades. (Answer in 150 words)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
भूकंप संबंधित संकटों के लिए भारत की भेद्यता की विवेचना कीजिए। पिछले तीन दशकों में, भारत के विभिन्न भागों में भूकंप द्वारा उत्पन्न बड़ी आपदाओं के उदाहरण प्रमुख विशेषताओं के साथ दीजिए। (150 शब्दों में उत्तर दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: GS3 Environment: threat, causes, impact, mitigation. discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close Full marks: Precise seismic zones and 3+ specific disasters with features and impact.
- Identify India's seismic zones (e.g., Zone V)
- Cite 2-3 specific major earthquakes (e.g., 2001 Bhuj, 2015 Nepal)
- Describe salient features of the cited disasters
- Link vulnerability to tectonic or structural factors
Q9 10M 150w Compulsory discuss Money laundering and technology
Discuss how emerging technologies and globalisation contribute to money laundering. Elaborate measures to tackle the problem of money laundering both at national and international levels. (Answer in 150 words)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
चर्चा कीजिए कि किस प्रकार उभरती प्रौद्योगिकियां और वैश्वीकरण मनी लॉन्ड्रिंग में योगदान करते हैं। राष्ट्रीय और अंतर्राष्ट्रीय दोनों स्तरों पर मनी लॉन्ड्रिंग की समस्या से निपटने के लिए किए जाने वाले उपायों को विस्तार से समझाइए। (150 शब्दों में उत्तर दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Situation > Analysis > Measures: legal, institutional, developmental > Assessment. discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close Full marks: Precise tech examples (crypto) and specific legal measures (PMLA/FATF) clearly linked.
- Link crypto, digital payments, or trade-based laundering to globalisation
- Identify specific national legal or institutional measures (e.g., PMLA, FIU)
- Identify specific international measures (e.g., FATF, mutual legal assistance)
- Maintain balanced structure covering both causes and solutions
Q10 10M 150w Compulsory analyse Cross-border cyber attacks
Keeping in view India's internal security, analyse the impact of cross-border cyber attacks. Also discuss defensive measures against these sophisticated attacks. (Answer in 150 words)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
भारत की आंतरिक सुरक्षा को ध्यान में रखते हुए, सीमा-पार से होने वाले साइबर हमलों के प्रभाव का विश्लेषण कीजिए। साथ ही, इन परिष्कृत हमलों के विरुद्ध रक्षात्मक उपायों की चर्चा कीजिए। (150 शब्दों में उत्तर दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Security: classify threat, vulnerability, response; stay calm. analyse: intro > causes > effects > stakeholders/linkages > way forward Full marks: Precise impact analysis and specific, implementable defensive measures.
- Link cyber attacks to internal security threats
- Identify specific impacts (e.g., data, infrastructure)
- Discuss defensive measures (legal, institutional)
- Mention specific Indian initiatives (e.g., CERT-In)
Q11 15M 250w Compulsory evaluate V-shaped economic recovery
Do you agree that the Indian economy has recently experienced V-shaped recovery? Give reasons in support of your answer. (Answer in 250 words)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
क्या आप सहमत हैं कि भारतीय अर्थव्यवस्था ने हाल ही में V-आकार के पुनरुत्थान का अनुभव किया है ? कारण सहित अपने उत्तर की पुष्टि कीजिए। (250 शब्दों में उत्तर दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Economic Analysis (Situation > Analysis > Assessment). justify: claim > 3-4 reasons > evidence > conclusion Full marks: Clear position with 4+ specific indicators, balanced conclusion, and one current scheme with number
- Explicitly state agreement or disagreement in the first line
- Define V-shaped recovery as sharp fall followed by rapid rebound
- Cite 3-4 specific economic indicators (GDP, IIP, exports, etc.)
- Provide a balanced conclusion acknowledging limitations or caveats
Q12 15M 250w Compulsory discuss Infrastructure investment and growth
"Investment in infrastructure is essential for more rapid and inclusive economic growth." Discuss in the light of India's experience. (Answer in 250 words)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
"तीव्रतर एवं समावेशी आर्थिक संवृद्धि के लिए आधारिक-अवसंरचना में निवेश आवश्यक है ।" भारतीय अनुभव के परिप्रेक्ष्य में विवेचना कीजिए । (250 शब्दों में उत्तर दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Situation > Analysis > Measures > Assessment. discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close Full marks: Comprehensive analysis with specific Indian data and balanced view
- Define infrastructure's role in economic growth
- Analyze India's experience (e.g., NITI Aayog, PPPs)
- Address 'inclusive' growth (rural/urban divide)
- Provide balanced assessment of current status
Q13 15M 250w Compulsory describe National Food Security Act 2013
What are the salient features of the National Food Security Act, 2013? How has the Food Security Bill helped in eliminating hunger and malnutrition in India? (Answer in 250 words)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
राष्ट्रीय खाद्य सुरक्षा अधिनियम, 2013 की मुख्य विशेषताएँ क्या हैं ? खाद्य सुरक्षा विधेयक ने भारत में भुख तथा कुपोषण को दूर करने में किस प्रकार सहायता की है ? (250 शब्दों में उत्तर दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Situation > Analysis > Measures: legal, institutional, developmental > Assessment. highlight: name the salient points > one line of substance each > close Full marks: Precise statutory details (67%, 5kg, rates) linked to specific hunger reduction outcomes.
- Coverage of 67% population (65% rural, 50% urban)
- Entitlement of 5 kg/person/month of foodgrains
- Subsidized rates (Rs 1/kg rice, Rs 2/kg wheat, Rs 3/kg coarse)
- Provision for mid-day meals and ICDS support
Q14 15M 250w Compulsory explain Crop diversification challenges
What are the present challenges before crop diversification? How do emerging technologies provide an opportunity for crop diversification? (Answer in 250 words)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
फसल विविधता के समक्ष मौजूदा चुनौतियाँ क्या हैं ? उभरती प्रौद्योगिकियाँ फसल विविधता के लिए किस प्रकार अवसर प्रदान करती हैं ? (250 शब्दों में उत्तर दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Situation > Analysis > Measures > Assessment. challenges: 3-4 challenges > solutions mapped to them > conclusion Full marks: Balanced analysis of economic/agronomic barriers with specific tech solutions mapped to each.
- Economic barriers: MSP bias, input costs, market linkages
- Agronomic barriers: soil health, water stress, pest cycles
- Institutional barriers: lack of seed availability, credit access
- Technological mapping: Precision ag, AI, biotech, drones
Q15 15M 250w Compulsory explain Applied biotechnology achievements
What are the research and developmental achievements in applied biotechnology? How will these achievements help to uplift the poorer sections of the society? (Answer in 250 words)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
अनुप्रयुक्त जैव-प्रौद्योगिकी में शोध तथा विकास-संबंधी उपलब्धियाँ क्या हैं ? ये उपलब्धियाँ समाज के निर्धन वर्गों के उत्थान में किस प्रकार सहायक होंगी ? (250 शब्दों में उत्तर दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Situation > Analysis > Measures > Assessment. explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close Full marks: Specific examples linked clearly to poverty reduction with balanced assessment
- Define applied biotechnology in agricultural/health context
- List 3-4 specific R&D achievements (e.g., Bt cotton, vaccines)
- Link achievements to poverty reduction (income, health)
- Conclude with balanced assessment of impact
Q16 15M 250w Compulsory explain Blue LED invention impact
The Nobel Prize in Physics of 2014 was jointly awarded to Akasaki, Amano and Nakamura for the invention of Blue LEDs in 1990s. How has this invention impacted the everyday life of human beings? (Answer in 250 words)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
वर्ष 2014 में भौतिक विज्ञान में नोबेल पुरस्कार संयुक्त रूप से आकासाकी, अमानो तथा नाकामुरा को 1990 के दशक में नीली एल.ई.डी. के आविष्कार के लिए प्रदान किया गया था । इस आविष्कार ने मानव-जाति के दैनंदिन जीवन को किस प्रकार प्रभावित किया है ? (250 शब्दों में उत्तर दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Technology: why it matters, use, benefit, risk, policy. explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close Full marks: Detailed, specific impacts on energy, health, and industry with clear examples.
- Energy efficiency and reduced electricity consumption
- Enabling white light for general illumination
- Impact on display technologies (TVs, screens)
- Health and safety benefits (reduced heat, no UV)
Q17 15M 250w Compulsory describe COP26 outcomes and India
Describe the major outcomes of the 26th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). What are the commitments made by India in this conference? (Answer in 250 words)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
संयुक्त राष्ट्र जलवायु परिवर्तन प्रेमवर्क सम्मेलन (यू.एन.एफ.सी.सी.सी.) के सी.ओ.पी. के 26वें सत्र के प्रमुख परिणामों का वर्णन कीजिए । इस सम्मेलन में भारत द्वारा की गई वचनबद्धताएँ क्या हैं ? (250 शब्दों में उत्तर दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Situation > Analysis > Measures > Assessment. describe: define > structure or process in order > labelled diagram > significance Full marks: Precise outcomes (Pact, 1.5C) and specific Indian targets (Net Zero 2070, 50% capacity).
- Mention Glasgow Climate Pact
- Note 1.5°C target reaffirmation
- Identify India's 2070 Net Zero commitment
- Cite 50% non-fossil energy capacity target
Q18 15M 250w Compulsory describe Landslides and risk management
Describe the various causes and the effects of landslides. Mention the important components of the National Landslide Risk Management Strategy. (Answer in 250 words)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
भू-स्खलन के विभिन्न कारणों और प्रभावों का वर्णन कीजिए । राष्ट्रीय भू-स्खलन जोखिम प्रबंधन रणनीति के महत्वपूर्ण घटकों का उल्लेख कीजिए । (250 शब्दों में उत्तर दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Environment: threat, causes, impact, mitigation. describe: define > structure or process in order > labelled diagram > significance Full marks: Comprehensive coverage of causes/effects and specific strategy components.
- Define landslide as mass movement of rock/soil.
- List natural causes (rain, seismic, slope) and anthropogenic (mining, roads).
- Describe effects (infrastructure damage, loss of life, ecological).
- Mention components of National Landslide Risk Management Strategy (e.g., mapping, early warning).
Q19 15M 250w Compulsory analyse External threats to internal security
Analyse the multidimensional challenges posed by external state and non-state actors, to the internal security of India. Also discuss measures required to be taken to combat these threats. (Answer in 250 words)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
भारत की आंतरिक सुरक्षा के लिए बाह्य राज्य और गैर-राज्य कारकों द्वारा प्रस्तुत बहुआयामी चुनौतियों का विश्लेषण कीजिए । इन संकटों का मुकाबला करने के लिए आवश्यक उपायों की भी चर्चा कीजिए । (250 शब्दों में उत्तर दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Security: classify threat, vulnerability, response. analyse: intro > causes > effects > stakeholders/linkages > way forward Full marks: Clear distinction of actors with specific, implementable countermeasures.
- Distinguish state vs non-state actor challenges
- Identify specific internal security vulnerabilities
- Link measures to specific threat types
- Include legal/institutional and developmental measures
Q20 15M 250w Compulsory analyse Terrorism complexity and measures
Analyse the complexity and intensity of terrorism, its causes, linkages and obnoxious nexus. Also suggest measures required to be taken to eradicate the menace of terrorism. (Answer in 250 words)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
आतंकवाद की जटिलता और तीव्रता, इसके कारणों, सम्बन्धों तथा अप्रिय गठजोड़ का विश्लेषण कीजिए । आतंकवाद के खतरे के उन्मूलन के लिए उठाए जाने वाले उपायों का भी सुझाव दीजिए । (250 शब्दों में उत्तर दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Security: classify threat, vulnerability, response; stay calm. analyse: intro > causes > effects > stakeholders/linkages > way forward Full marks: Analytical depth on nexus; specific, implementable measures; balanced tone.
- Define complexity/intensity (e.g., non-state actors, WMDs)
- Identify causes (ideological, economic, political)
- Explain obnoxious nexus (narcotics, arms, cyber, state support)
- Suggest implementable measures (legal, institutional, developmental)