All 8 questions from UPSC Civil Services Mains Geography 2021 Paper I (400 marks total). Every stem reproduced in full, with directive-word analysis, marks, word limits, and answer-approach pointers.
8Questions
400Total marks
2021Year
Paper IPaper
Topics covered
Geomorphology, climatology, oceanography, biogeography and ecology (1)Plate tectonics, oceanography and soil degradation (1)Precipitation patterns, maritime security and carbon neutrality (1)Human ecology, watershed management and lightning hazards (1)Social geography, energy transition, agriculture, regional development and settlement geography (1)Development displacement, food security and regional planning (1)Regional delimitation, geopolitics and world cities (1)Radical geography, population aging and industrial location theory (1)
A
Q1
50M150wCompulsorydescribeGeomorphology, climatology, oceanography, biogeography and ecology
Answer the following in about 150 words each:
(a) Describe the concept of 'Altiplanation'. (10 marks)
(b) What are the important factors responsible for airmass modifications? (10 marks)
(c) Discuss the hazards associated with rise of sea-surface temperature. (10 marks)
(d) Gene pool centres are 'Good Hope' for biodiversity conservation. Elucidate. (10 marks)
(e) Describe how ecosystem services of Himalaya are essential for Highland-Lowland sustainability in Asia. (10 marks)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
निम्नलिखित में से प्रत्येक का उत्तर लगभग 150 शब्दों में दीजिए :
(a) उच्चस्थ समतलन (अल्टीप्लेनेशन) अवधारणा का वर्णन कीजिए । (10 अंक)
(b) वायु संहति रूपान्तरण हेतु उत्तरदायी महत्वपूर्ण कारक क्या हैं ? (10 अंक)
(c) सागर-सतह के तापमान में वृद्धि से सम्बन्धित संकटों की विवेचना कीजिए । (10 अंक)
(d) जीन कोश केन्द्र जैवविविधता संरक्षण के लिए 'अच्छी आशा' हैं । स्पष्ट कीजिए । (10 अंक)
(e) एशिया में उच्चभूमि-निम्नभूमि की स्थिरता के लिये हिमालय की पारिस्थितिकीय सेवाएं कैसे जरूरी हैं, वर्णन कीजिए । (10 अंक)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Concept or mechanism > Diagram > Regional example > Application. (a) describe: define > structure or process in order > labelled diagram > significance | (b) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close | (c) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close | (d) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close | (e) describe: define > structure or process in order > labelled diagram > significance Full marks: Precise definitions, clear mechanisms, specific examples, and logical flow.
Define altiplanation (cryoplanation) as frost-driven terrace formation in cold climates
Mechanism: frost shattering, nivation and solifluction retreat the scarp and widen the tread
Examples such as Alaska–Yukon, NE Siberia (goletz) or the Rockies
Underlying surface and air–surface temperature contrast (heat and moisture exchange)
Path length, speed and residence time
Topography, mixing and subsidence, with an example such as cP over warm water turning unstable
Stronger tropical cyclones and rapid intensification above about 26.5°C
Coral bleaching and loss of marine ecosystems
Sea-level rise from thermal expansion, fishery losses and altered ENSO or monsoon
Vavilov's centres of origin and diversity of crops
Crop wild relatives and landraces carry stress and disease-resistance genes
India's in-situ gene sanctuaries and ex-situ banks such as NBPGR
Water tower: glaciers and snow feed the Indus, Ganga and Brahmaputra
Monsoon barrier, climate regulation, and silt and soil renewal
50MelaboratePlate tectonics, oceanography and soil degradation
(a) The concept of Plate tectonics has been derived from the isostasy and continental drift theory. Elaborate citing suitable examples. (20 marks)
(b) Give a detailed account of bottom topography of the Pacific Ocean. (15 marks)
(c) Soil erosion and soil degradation are threat to food supply. Discuss. (15 marks)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
(a) प्लेट विवर्तनिकी की संकल्पना, समस्थिति और महाद्वीपीय अपवाह सिद्धान्त (ड्रिफ्ट थ्योरी) से लिया गया है । उपयुक्त उदाहरण देते हुये विस्तार से बताइये । (20 अंक)
(b) प्रशान्त महासागर की तली स्थलाकृति का विस्तार से वर्णन कीजिये । (15 अंक)
(c) मृदा अपरदन तथा मृदा निम्नीकरण खाद्य आपूर्ति में खतरा हैं । विवेचना कीजिए । (15 अंक)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Concept or mechanism > Diagram > Regional example > Application. (a) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close | (b) describe: define > structure or process in order > labelled diagram > significance | (c) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close Full marks: Clear causal chains, precise examples, labelled diagrams, balanced conclusions
Continental drift evidence (Wegener) and the missing mechanism
Isostasy (Airy, Pratt) and lithosphere floating on the asthenosphere; sea-floor spreading and convection join them
Examples: Mid-Atlantic Ridge, East African Rift, Himalaya, Andes or San Andreas
Trenches and island arcs (Mariana, Peru–Chile, Tonga) and the Ring of Fire
East Pacific Rise as a fast-spreading ridge without a deep central rift
Abyssal plains, seamounts and guyots, Hawaiian–Emperor chain, fracture zones
Distinguish erosion (removal of topsoil) from degradation (wider quality loss)
Link to nutrient loss, lower water-holding capacity and falling yields
Indian examples and remedies (ravines, salinity; watershed management)
50MexaminePrecipitation patterns, maritime security and carbon neutrality
(a) Examine major influencing factors for varied patterns of precipitations on the continents. (20 marks)
(b) Maritime security is being neglected. Indicate the major challenges and suggest solutions in the context of Law of the Sea. (15 marks)
(c) Explaining the concept of carbon neutrality, describe the measures taken by carbon positive and negative nations. (15 marks)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
(a) महाद्वीपों पर वर्षण के विविध प्रतिरूपों को प्रभावित करने वाले प्रमुख कारकों का परीक्षण कीजिए । (20 अंक)
(b) सामुद्रिक सुरक्षा की उपेक्षा हो रही है । प्रमुख चुनौतियों को इंगित कीजिए और समुद्र नियम के सन्दर्भ में उपाय सुझाइये । (15 अंक)
(c) कार्बन तटस्थता अवधारणा की व्याख्या करते हुये, कार्बन धनात्मक और ऋणात्मक राष्ट्रों द्वारा किये गये उपायों का वर्णन कीजिये । (15 अंक)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Concept > Mechanism > Diagram > Regional Example > Application. (a) examine: intro > how/why with reasoning > evidence > conclusion | (b) challenges: 3-4 challenges > solutions mapped to them > conclusion | (c) describe: define > structure or process in order > labelled diagram > significance Full marks: Clear causal chains, labelled diagrams, specific regional/statutory examples, balanced conclusions.
Latitude and pressure belts (ITCZ, subtropical highs, westerlies) and distance from the sea
Winds, ocean currents (warm and cold) and relief (orographic rain, rain shadow)
Monsoon, cyclones and fronts, with examples from different continents
Challenges: piracy, terrorism, trafficking, IUU fishing, EEZ and island disputes
50MelaborateHuman ecology, watershed management and lightning hazards
(a) With suitable examples, elaborate human ecological adaptations. Explain its impacts on ecology and environment in various parts of the world. (20 marks)
(b) Stream basins and drainage divides are important components to delineate a watershed area. Explain. (15 marks)
(c) Indicating the causes of lightning, describe the threats associated with it. (15 marks)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
(a) मानव के पारिस्थितिकीय अनुकूलनों का उपयुक्त उदाहरणों सहित विस्तृत विवरण दीजिए। विश्व के विभिन्न भागों में पारिस्थितिकी एवं पर्यावरण पर इसके प्रभावों की व्याख्या कीजिए। (20 अंक)
(b) जलसंभर क्षेत्र के निरूपण में सरिता बेसिन और अपवाह विभाजक महत्वपूर्ण अवयव हैं। व्याख्या कीजिए। (15 अंक)
(c) तड़ित (लाइटनिंग) के कारणों को इंगित करते हुए, इससे सम्बन्धित खतरों का वर्णन कीजिए। (15 अंक)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Concept > Diagram > Regional Example > Application. (a) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close | (b) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close | (c) describe: define > structure or process in order > labelled diagram > significance Full marks: Precise mechanism, labelled diagrams, specific regional examples, and clear causal links.
50M150wCompulsoryexplainSocial geography, energy transition, agriculture, regional development and settlement geography
Answer the following in about 150 words each:
(a) The interrelationships between social and spatial structure are complex. Explain in the context of socio-spatial dialectic. (10 marks)
(b) How is energy transition seen as an instrument for achieving zero carbon by 2050? (10 marks)
(c) Protected cultivation assists in healthier and a larger produce. Justify with examples. (10 marks)
(d) Explain the processes of contagion and hierarchical diffusion in addressing regional imbalances. (10 marks)
(e) Examine the relevance of Central Place Theory of Christaller in the present context. (10 marks)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
निम्नलिखित में से प्रत्येक का उत्तर लगभग 150 शब्दों में दीजिए :
(a) सामाजिक एवं स्थानिक संरचना के मध्य अन्तःसम्बन्ध जटिल हैं। सामाजिक-स्थानिक द्वन्द्व के संदर्भ में व्याख्या कीजिए। (10 अंक)
(b) सन् 2050 तक शून्य कार्बन को प्राप्त करने हेतु ऊर्जा संक्रमण को एक साधन के रूप में कैसे देखा जाता है ? (10 अंक)
(c) संरक्षित कृषि स्वस्थ और बृहद् उत्पाद में सहायता करती है। उदाहरण के साथ सही सिद्ध कीजिए। (10 अंक)
(d) प्रादेशिक विषमता संबोधन हेतु संसर्ग एवं पदानुक्रमीय विसरण प्रक्रियाओं की व्याख्या कीजिए। (10 अंक)
(e) वर्तमान काल के संदर्भ में क्रीस्टालर के केन्द्रस्थल सिद्धान्त की प्रासंगिकता का परीक्षण कीजिए। (10 अंक)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Socio-spatial dialectic, Energy transition, Protected cultivation, Diffusion processes, Central Place Theory. (a) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close | (b) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close | (c) justify: claim > 3-4 reasons > evidence > conclusion | (d) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close | (e) examine: intro > how/why with reasoning > evidence > conclusion Full marks: Clear, concise, and directly addresses the command word with specific examples and mechanisms.
Soja's dialectic: society shapes space and space shapes society
50MmentionDevelopment displacement, food security and regional planning
(a) Development-induced displacement poses serious challenges. Mention its causes, consequences and solutions. (20 marks)
(b) Describe the role of accessibility and affordability in food security of developing world. (15 marks)
(c) The environmental issues are not adequately addressed in the regional planning. Comment. (15 marks)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
(a) विकास-जनित विस्थापन गम्भीर चुनौतियों को प्रस्तुत करता है। इसके कारणों, परिणामों एवं समाधानों का उल्लेख कीजिए। (20 अंक)
(b) विकासशील विश्व की खाद्य सुरक्षा में अभिगम्यता और सामर्थ्य की भूमिका का वर्णन कीजिए । (15 अंक)
(c) प्रादेशिक नियोजन में पर्यावरणीय मुद्दों को पर्याप्त रूप से सम्बोधित नहीं किया जाता है । टिप्पणी कीजिए । (15 अंक)
Answer approach & key points
(a) analyse: intro > causes > effects > stakeholders/linkages > way forward | (b) describe: define > structure or process in order > labelled diagram > significance | (c) comment: context > arguments both sides > judgment > close Full marks: Comprehensive causal chain, specific examples, balanced judgment, and clear linkage of concepts.
50MsuggestRegional delimitation, geopolitics and world cities
(a) Suggest criteria, indicators and techniques for delimitation of formal regions. (20 marks)
(b) Boundaries are important in geopolitics. Explain. What issues develop from the inclusionary and exclusionary aspects of borders? (15 marks)
(c) Small number of mega cities are playing key role in organisation of global economics and culture. Explain. (15 marks)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
(a) औपचारिक प्रदेशों के सीमांकन के मानकों, सूचकों तथा तकनीकों को सुझाइए । (20 अंक)
(b) भूराजनीति में सीमाएं महत्त्वपूर्ण हैं, व्याख्या कीजिए । सीमाओं के समावेशी एवं अपवर्जी पहलू से क्या मुद्दे विकसित होते हैं ? (15 अंक)
(c) वैश्विक आर्थिक तंत्र एवं संस्कृति के संगठन में कुछ विशाल (मेगा) शहर प्रमुख भूमिका निभा रहे हैं । व्याख्या कीजिए । (15 अंक)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Concept or mechanism > Diagram > Regional example > Application. (a) suggest: the problem in one line > implementable measures > who acts > conclusion | (b) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close | (c) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close Full marks: Precise definitions, clear distinction between concepts, specific examples, and logical flow.
Define formal region and choose criteria (physical, economic, socio-cultural)
Indicators for each type (rainfall, crop combination, literacy etc.)
50MexplainRadical geography, population aging and industrial location theory
(a) Why is radicalism seen as a major paradigm shift in geography? Explain its causes, approaches and criticism. (20 marks)
(b) Aging population has adverse social and economic consequences. Explain with examples. (15 marks)
(c) Present a critical account of Alfred Weber Theory of industrial location. (15 marks)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
(a) भूगोल में प्रमुख प्रतिमान बदलाव के रूप में अतिवाद को क्यों देखा जाता है ? इसके कारणों, उपागमों तथा आलोचनाओं की व्याख्या कीजिए । (20 अंक)
(b) वृद्ध होती आबादी के प्रतिकूल सामाजिक एवं आर्थिक परिणाम होते हैं । उदाहरणों के साथ व्याख्या कीजिए । (15 अंक)
(c) ऐल्फ्रेड वेबर के औद्योगिक अवस्थिति के सिद्धांत का समालोचनात्मक विवरण प्रस्तुत कीजिए । (15 अंक)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: UPSC Geography Paper 1 Rubric. (a) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close | (b) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close | (c) critique: the claim > its strengths > its weaknesses > your judgment Full marks: Comprehensive, well-structured, with diagrams and specific examples; critical analysis is sharp.
Causes: failure of the quantitative revolution to address inequality, social unrest, moral concern
Approaches: Marxist (Harvey), anarchist, welfare and feminist; Antipode
Criticism: ideological bias, structural determinism, little empirical or policy work
Define ageing and give examples (Japan, Italy, China, India and Kerala)
Economic consequences: dependency ratio, labour shortage, pension and health costs
Social consequences: loneliness, elder abuse, feminisation, caregiver strain; policy responses
Least-cost principle with transport, labour and agglomeration factors
Location triangle, material index, isodapane and critical isodapane
Criticisms: static, ignores demand, policy and technology, unrealistic assumptions