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2016 UPSC Mains Examination Question Paper Analysis
0Sr.
NO
Q. No
GS Pape
r Subject Topic Question Marks
Difficulty Level
Nature of Question
Book Source Newspaper Links Comments
1 1 I
Indian Heritage and Culture
Salient aspects of Art Forms
Early Buddhist Stupa-art, while depicting folk motifs and narratives, successfully expounds Buddhist ideals. Elucidate.
12.5 Medium Basic and
Conceptual Question
Indian Art and Culture
NCERT (Class 11) and NIOS
Indian Culture and
Heritage
http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/ancient-buddhist-site-found-in-amaravati/article8612928.ece
Question repeated from 2013 History Optional Paper - Explain as to how the early Buddhist stupa art, while using motifs and narratives and common cultural symbols, succeeded in transforming these themes for expounding Buddhist ideas
2 2 I Indian History
Medieval History
Krishnadeva Raya, the king of Vijayanagar, was not only an accomplished scholar himself but was a also a great patron of learning and literature. Discuss.
12.5 Easy Basic and
Conceptual Question
History Tamil Nadu Text
Book (Class 11)
http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-karnataka/Light-sound-show-focuses-on-Vijayanagar-empire/article16088432.ece
3 3 I Indian History
Freedom Struggle
Explain how the upraising of 1857 constitutes an important watershed in the evolution of British policies towards colonial India.
12.5 Easy Basic and
Conceptual Question
History NCERT Book (Old Modern
NCERT), India's
Struggle for Independenc
e by Bipan Chandra
N/A
Every year UPSC asks one or two questions on Indian National Movement, which is very important topic in Indian History.
4 4 I Indian History
Freedom Struggle
Discuss the role of women in the freedom struggle especially during the Gandhian phase.
12.5 Easy Basic and
Conceptual Question
History NCERT Book - Class 11 and
Spectrum History
http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/emancipation-of-women-discussed-in-the-hindu-1947-indpendence-day-issue/article7540721.ece
Question repeated, UPSC asked similar question in 2013 GS Paper 1 question paper - Defying the barriers of age, gender and religion, the
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Indian women became the torch bearer during the struggle for freedom in India. Discuss.
5 5 I Indian History
Freedom Struggle
Highlight the differences in the approach of Subhash Chandra Bose and Mahatma Gandhi in the struggle for freedom.
12.5 Medium
Basic and Current Affairs
oriented
India's Struggle for
Independence by Bipan Chandra
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Netaji-Subhas-Chandra-Bose-wanted-ruthless-dictatorship-in-India-for-20-years/articleshow/46980513.cms http://www.newindianexpress.com/education/edex/2016/aug/15/Make-it-like-the-Mahatma-or-bend-it-like-bose-1509353.html
News related to S.C. Bose death files have been regularly published on news papers
6 6 I Post Independent India
Post-independence consolidation and reorganization
Has the formation of linguistic states strengthened the cause of Indian unity?
12.5 Medium
Basic and Current Affairs
oriented
Political Science - Class 12 NCERT
http://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/maharashtra-water-crisis-devendra-fadnavis-reservation-protests-bjp-shiv-sena-2781260/ http://www.livemint.com/Opinion/CTainjX8Apy0igpgPvJYjI/Restating-the-case.html
Newspaper debates on formation of linguistic states after telangana separated from Andhra Pradesh
7 7 I World History
History of the world
The anti-colonial struggles in West Africa were led by the new elite of Western -educated Africans. Examine.
12.5 Difficult Expert level
Question
World History -
Arjun Dev N/A
World History Questions are reducing year after year, 2015 question paper had two questions and in 2016 one question only. Especially this question is very difficult as it asks the anti-colonial struggles in 'West Africa', which demands a subject expertise to answer such questions
8 8 I Indian Society
Effects of globalization on Indian society
To what extent globalisation has influenced the core of cultural diversity in India? Explain.
12.5 Easy Basic and
Conceptual Question
Indian Society
NCERT - Class 12
N/A
Every year UPSC asks one Question on Indian Society topic 'Effects of Globalization on Indian Society'. In 2015, UPSC asked Question on Globalization effect on Indian women.
9 9 I Indian Society
Poverty and developmental issues
“An essential condition to eradicate poverty is to liberate the poor from the process of deprivation.” Substantiate this statement with suitable examples.
12.5(7+5.5)
Medium Basic and
Conceptual Question
Indian Society
NCERT - Class 12
http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/Still-seriously-hungry-and-poor/article16085454.ece
Poverty and Development issues is an important topic in UPSC, Candidates should always be prepared on such topics. It may also helpful in Essay writing too
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10 10 I Indian Society
Population and associated issues
Why are the tribals in India referred to as ‘the Scheduled Tribes’? Indicate the major provisions enshrined in the Constitution of India for their upliftment.
12.5(4.5+8)
Medium Basic and
Conceptual Question
Indian Society
NCERT - Class 12
http://www.thehindu.com/features/kids/meet-indias-indigenous-people/article7507271.ece
11 11 I Indian Society
Urbanization, their problems and their remedies
With a brief background of quality of urban life in India, introduce the objectives and strategy of the ‘Smart City Programme.”
12.5(4+8.5)
Medium
Conceptual and
Current Affairs Based
Indian Society
NCERT - Class 12
http://www.thehindu.com/life-and-style/homes-and-gardens/How-realistic-is-the-Smart-Cities-Mission/article16700300.ece http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/comment-article-by-sachin-kalbag-on-liveable-cities-mission-is-what-we-need/article8026138.ece http://www.thehindu.com/features/homes-and-gardens/indias-challenge-of-disordered-urbanisation/article8285145.ece
Question asked based on newspaper analysis on Smart City Programme.
12 12 I Indian Society
Diversity of India
What is the basis of regionalism? Is it that unequal distribution of benefits of development on regional basis eventually promotes regionalism? Substantiate your answer.
12.5(3.5+9)
Medium
Conceptual and
Current Affairs Based
Political Science - Class 12 NCERT
http://www.thehindu.com/data/Disparity-between-States-growing-Study/article15000661.ece
Regionalism and Development Disparity are important topics as UPSC repeatedly asks in UPSC questions. In 2013 GS Paper 1, UPSC asked, growing feeling of regionalism is an important factor in the generation of demand for a separate state. Discuss. Since, the telagana formation there is debate on regionalism and disparity in development.
13 13 I Indian Geography
Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc.
Discuss the concept of air mass and explain its role in macro-climatic changes.
12.5 Difficult
Conceptual and
Current Affairs Based
Fundamental of Physical Geography - Class XI, Certificate Physical and Human Geography - G.C. Leong
N/A
14 14 I Indian Geography
Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc.
“The Himalayas are highly prone to landslides.”Discuss the causes and suggest suitable measures of mitigation.
12.5 Medium
Conceptual and
Current Affairs Based
Fundamental of Physical Geography - Class XI, Certificate Physical and Human Geography - G.C. Leong
http://www.hindustantimes.com/india/more-than-12-of-india-s-land-mass-is-prone-to-landslides-gsi/story-UpUKih0Nw7j7paDRR1FViM.html
Question again repeated from Previous Year Question Papers. IN 2013, UPSC asked, Bring out the causes for more frequent landslides in the Himalayas than in Western Ghats.
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15 15 I Indian Geography
Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc.
The effective management of land and water resources will drastically reduce the human miseries. Explain.
12.5 Medium Current Affairs Based
N/A
http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/effective-water-management-helped-farmers-irrigate-land/article7079445.ece http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/wisenet-ensures-effective-water-management/article8265780.ece http://indianexpress.com/article/explained/how-india-sees-the-coming-crisis-of-water-and-is-preparing-for-it-3049950/ http://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/india-water-crisis-privatisation-of-water-distribution-amrut-2937415/
There was continuous debate happening in the news daily on land and water management, especially post Chennai floods and other regions.
16 16 I World Geography
Distribution of key natural resources across the world
South China Sea has assumed great geopolitical significance in the present context. Comment.
12.5 Easy Current Affairs Based
N/A
http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/All-at-the-South-China-Sea/article14544090.ece http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/South-China-Sea-and-the-nine-dash-line-what-you-need-to-know/article14485046.ece
It was an expected question for the last 2 years, but UPSC asked in 2016. Good Question, but it is two year old news
17 17 I Indian Geography
Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc
Major cities of India are becoming vulnerable to flood conditions. Discuss.
12.5 Medium Current Affairs Based
N/A http://www.firstpost.com/living/indias-cities-might-be-expanding-but-are-more-vulnerable-to-natural-disasters-2585016.html http://www.hindustantimes.com/india/vulnerable-to-freak-floods-is-your-city-the-next-chennai/story-zaJ0jeABrU4OKtoBEmr8IJ.html http://cdn.downtoearth.org.in/uploads/0.56859500_1457688308_Preview.pdf
18 18 I Indian Geography
Geographical features
Present an account of the Indus Water Treaty and examine its ecological, economic and political implications in the context of changing bilateral relations.
12.5 Easy Current Affairs Based
N/A
http://www.thehindu.com/specials/10-things-to-know-about-Indus-Water-Treaty/article15000672.ece http://indianexpress.com/article/explained/india-pakistan-relation-indus-water-treaty-kishanganga-and-ratle-hydropower-projects-4437894/
Indus Water treaty was in news based on this question were asked.
19 19 I Indian Geography
Distribution of key natural resources
Enumerate the problems and prospects of inland water transport in India.
12.5 Easy Current Affairs Based
N/A
http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/mumbai/business/Govt.-plans-major-boost-to-water-transport/article13998276.ece http://www.thehindu.com/business/Ports-to-promote-waterways-as-Centre-plans-policy-rejig/article14583679.ece http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/jal-marg-vikas-project-national-waterway-1-scope-and-limitations-of-the-ambitious-plan-2987827/
Inland waterways were in News as government proposed to increase more inland waterways and ports in India for trade improvement. Based on this topic, there was continuous newspaper debate on News daily.
20 20 I Indian Geography
Geographical features
In what way micro-watershed development projects help in water conservation in drought-prone and semi-arid regions of India?
12.5 Medium
Conceptual and
Current Affairs Based
N/A
http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/indian-agriculture-sector-farmer-subsidies-dryland-farming-drought-india-monsoon-groundwater-recharge-water-harvesting-2926532/ http://planningcommission.nic.in/reports/sereport/ser/stdy_watrshd.pdf
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21 1 I Indian Polity
Indian Constitution - Amendments
Discuss the essentials of the 69th Constitutional Amendment Act and anomalies, if any, that have led to recent reported conflicts between the elected representatives and the institution of the Lieutenant Governor in the administration of Delhi. Do you think that this will give rise to a new trend in the functioning of the Indian federal politics?
12.5 Medium
Basic and Current Affairs
oriented
Indian Polity - Laxmikanth and Introduction to Indian Constitution - DD Basu
http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/Not-a-full-fledged-State/article14553430.ece http://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-delhi-cm-v-lg-much-lies-between-the-lines-of-statute-act-and-rules/ http://www.livemint.com/Politics/Sokc6QdybYtieIxw5eg2ON/In-echoes-of-Delhi-Puducherry-CM-and-Lieutenant-Governor-sq.html
69th amendment was in news as there was turf between the Delhi CM and Lt. Governor of Delhi, over the powers distributed under article 239 AA.
22 2 II Indian Polity
Indian Constitution - Significant provisions
To what extent is Article 370 of the Indian Constitution, bearing marginal note “temporary provision with respect to the State of Jammu and Kashmir”, temporary? Discuss the future prospects of this provision in the context of Indian polity.
12.5 Medium
Basic and Current Affairs
oriented
Indian Polity - Laxmikanth and Introduction to Indian Constitution - DD Basu
http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/the-importance-of-article-370/article7762192.ece http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/Understanding-Article-370/article11640894.ece http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/article-370-is-permanent-rules-jk-high-court/article7749839.ece
Article 370 was in news, there was debate going on removing the temporary provisions provided to the state of Jammu and Kashmir.
23 3 II Indian Polity
Indian Constitution
“The Indian party system is passing through a phase of transition which looks to be full of contradictions and paradoxes.” Discuss.
12.5 Difficult
Basic and Fundamen
tal Question
Indian Polity - Laxmikanth
http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/dumbing-down-of-indian-politics/article8604008.ece http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/Democracy-direct-to-home/article16737914.ece
UPSC asks this kind of question rarely, but still it is very much part of the syllabus. Recently, Indian Political Party system facing some criticism on its functioning.
24 4 II Indian Polity
Appointment to various Constitutional posts, powers, functions and responsibilities of various Constitutional Bodies.
Exercise of CAG’s powers in relation to the accounts of the Union and the States is derived from Article 149 of the Indian Constitution. Discuss whether audit of the Government’s policy implementation could amount to overstepping its own (CAG) jurisdiction.
12.5 Medium
Basic and Current Affairs
oriented
Indian Polity - Laxmikanth and Introduction to Indian Constitution - DD Basu
http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/Empower-not-weaken-the-CAG/article10398867.ece http://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/auditor-under-scrutiny/ http://www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/government-oil-firms-inflated-pahal-subsidy-savings-cag-116081300058_1.html
CAG was in news, as it commented on the PAHAL Scheme and stated Subsidy saving is inflated.
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25 5 II Indian Polity
Indian Constitution - Significant provisions and basic structure.
Discuss each adjective attached to the word ‘Republic’ in the ‘Preamble’. Are they defendable in the present circumstances?
12.5 Difficult
Basic and Fundamen
tal Question
Indian Polity - Laxmikanth and Introduction to Indian Constitution - DD Basu
N/A
Basic question only, but defining each word in preamble and explaining the present relevance makes question bit difficult.
26 6 II Indian Polity
Issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure
What was held in the Coelho case? In this context, can you say that judicial review is of key importance amongst the basic features of the Constitution?
12.5 Difficult
Basic and Fundamen
tal Question
Indian Polity - Laxmikanth and Introduction to Indian Constitution - DD Basu
http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/Restoring-the-Supreme-Court%E2%80%99s-exclusivity/article11557294.ece http://www.financialexpress.com/opinion/editorial-ninth-schedule-again/231462/
Debate on Schedule 9 was going on news daily and the Cohelo Judgement was discussed in detail too.
27 7 II Indian Polity
Indian Constitution- Historical underpinnings
Did the Government of India Act, 1935 lay down a federal constitution? Discuss.
12.5 Medium
Basic and Fundamen
tal Question
Indian Polity - Laxmikanth and Introduction to Indian Constitution - DD Basu
N/A
Looks like history question but it is part of GS paper 2 syllabus under Historical underpinnings.
28 8 II Indian Polity
Statutory, regulatory and various quasi-judicial bodies.
What is quasi-judicial body? Explain with the help of concrete examples.
12.5 Difficult
Basic and Fundamen
tal Question
Indian Polity - Laxmikanth and Introduction to Indian Constitution - DD Basu
N/A
Question looks simple, what makes question difficult is recalling important quasi-judicial body and defining Quasi-judicial body.
29 9 II Social Justice
Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector or Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources.
Professor Amartya Sen has advocated important reforms in the realms of primary education and primary health care. What are your suggestions to improve their status and performance?
12.5 Medium
Basic and Fundamen
tal Question
Governance in India by Laxmikanth
http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/NDA-has-failed-on-reforms-says-Amartya-Sen/article13988429.ece http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-opinion/Why-healthcare-access-eludes-India/article14635228.ece
UPSC clearly mentioned in syllabus Issues relating to Health, Education etc. Candidates has to be prepared on those topics. It is not necessary what Amartya Sen told about education or health sector, candidates can write on education and health based on their preparation.
30 10 II Governance
Development processes and the development industry- the role of NGOs, SHGs, various groups and
“In the Indian governance system, the role of non-state actors has been only marginal.” Critically examine this statement.
12.5 Medium
Basic and Fundamen
tal Question
Governance in India by Laxmikanth
http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/nonstate-actors-who-bring-nations-closer/article4273803.ece
It is a static question as role of non-state actor on Indian governance was mentioned in UPSC mains syllabus.
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associations, donors, charities, institutional and other stakeholders.
31 11 II Governance
Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.
“Effectiveness of the government system at various levels and people’s participation in the governance system are inter-dependent/” Discuss their relationship in the context of India.
12.5 Medium
Basic and Fundamen
tal Question
Governance in India by Laxmikanth
http://planningcommission.gov.in/reports/genrep/bkpap2020/15_bg2020.pdf
32 12 II Governance
Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.
In the integrity index of Transparency International, India stands very low. Discuss briefly the legal, political, social and cultural factors that have caused the decline of public morality in India.
12.5 Medium
Basic and Current Affairs
oriented
Governance in India by Laxmikanth
http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/India-ranks-76-in-Corruption-Perception-Index/article14022729.ece
33 13 II Governance
Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.
Has the Indian governmental system responded adequately to the demands of Liberalization, Privatization and Globalization started in 1991? What can the government do to be responsive to this important change?
12.5 Easy Current Affairs
oriented N/A
http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/How-the-economy-found-its-feet/article14506275.ece http://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/life-style/25-years-of-reforms-india-after-liberalisation-2932683/ http://www.livemint.com/Opinion/oI2rFWRjyyj7Wl24WGRN0I/25-years-of-economic-reforms.html
2016 witnessed 25 year of Indian Economic liberation and 1991 financial crisis. There were numerous articles on newspapers on Indian economic LPG era of last 25 years.
34 14 II Governance
Role of civil services in a democracy.
“Traditional bureaucratic structure and culture have hampered the process of socio-economic development in India.” Comment.
12.5 Medium
Basic and Fundamen
tal Question
Governance in India by
Laxmikanth N/A
UPSC asks one question every year based on Syllabus topic, role of Civil Services in India.
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35 15 II Social Justice
Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector or Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources.
Examine the main provisions of the National Child Policy and throw light on the status of its implementation.
12.5 Medium Current Affairs
oriented N/A
http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=118660 http://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/child-labour-bill-unequal-childhood-family-workers-free-education-2941209/ http://indianexpress.com/article/india/programmes-for-children-have-to-take-centre-stage-in-national-policy-making-pranab-mukherjee-4420322/
Child policy is basic question and it was also in news with the recent amendment Child Labour Act
36 16 II Social Justice
Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector or Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources.
“Demographic Dividend in India will remain only theoretical unless our manpower becomes more educated, aware, skilled and creative.” What measures have been taken by the government to enhance the capacity of our population to be more productive and employable?
12.5 Medium Current Affairs Based
N/A
http://www.thehindu.com/features/education/Bridge-the-skills-gap/article14556912.ece http://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/re-skilling-skill-development/ http://www.livemint.com/Politics/CnPIltKBekTpN81EIxSWcM/Skill-development-Govt-wants-industry-to-play-a-bigger-role.html
Demographic dividend is an important topic, as India is youngest nation and government also frames various policies based on demographic like Skill India mission to utilize the younger population strength of India. Every year, Economic Survey also discusses on India's demographic dividend.
37 17 II International Relations
Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate.
“The broader aims and objectives of WTO are to manage and promote international trade in the era of globalization. But the Doha round of negotiations seem doomed due to differences between the developed and the developing countries.” Discuss in the Indian perspective.
12.5 Medium Current Affairs Based
N/A
http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/editorial-on-wto-meeting-in-nairobi-an-opportunity-missed-at-nairobi/article8022370.ece http://indianexpress.com/article/explained/deal-or-no-deal/ http://www.livemint.com/Politics/oQKzCxYOn2kw76evW6xpWP/Developing-nations-stand-firm-on-continuing-Doha-Round-talks.html
Once in two years UPSC asks Doha round of WTO talks, as this Doha round of talks was in news regularly. It is also important topic as India was leading the developing nations.
38 18 II International Relations
Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests.
Evaluate the economic and strategic dimensions of India’s Look East Policy in the context of the post Cold War international scenario.
12.5 Medium Current Affairs Based
N/A http://www.mea.gov.in/distinguished-lectures-detail.htm?209 http://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/pm-narendra-modi-look-east-policy-modi-act-east-policy-asean-summit-3019123/
Government of India changed the Policy of Look East to Act East, as East Asia is getting significance in Asian region and India wants to promote better relationship between North East India and Asian countries.
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39 19 II International Relations
India and its neighborhood- relations.
“Increasing cross-border terrorist attacks in India and growing interference in the internal affairs of member-states by Pakistan are not conducive for the future of SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation).” Explain with suitable examples.
12.5 Medium Current Affairs Based
N/A
http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/India-steps-up-pressure-to-boycott-SAARC-meet-in-Pak./article15002572.ece http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/to-isolate-pakistan-in-neighbourhood-india-pulls-out-of-islamabad-saarc-summit-3053697/
2016 India boycotted SAARC Summit in Islamabad and stated reason as growing cross-border terrorism, Pakistan not addressing the terrorism.
40 20 II International Relations
Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate.
What are the aims and objectives of the McBride Commission of the UNESCO? What is India’s position on these?
12.5 Difficult Basic
Question N/A http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php/MacBride_Commission
It is a difficult question, as McBrige commission is specific commission in UN to study of Communication Problems, and it is difficult to study all the commission and organizations in UN for UPSC exams.
41 1 III Economic Development
Effects of liberalization on the economy, changes in industrial policy and their effects on industrial growth.
How globalization has led to the reduction of employment in the formal sector of the Indian economy? Is increased informalization detrimental to the development of the country?
12.5 Medium Basic
Question
Economics NCERT - Class 11 and Indian
Economy - Ramesh
Singh
http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/A-job-for-every-Indian/article14299146.ece http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/farm-policy-the-political-economy-of-why-reforms-elude-agriculture-2981939/ http://www.livemint.com/Opinion/4kxau3CejBat9uAIEakIKK/Formalizing-Indias-informal-economy.html
Post liberalization, economic experts were criticizing India's economic policies and termed India has jobless economic growth.
42 2 III Economic Development
Government Budgeting
Women empowerment in India needs gender budgeting. What are the requirements and status of gender budgeting in the Indian context?
12.5 Medium Basic
Question
Indian Economy -
Ramesh Singh
http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/a-budget-for-women/article6929819.ece http://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/jan-dhan-aadhaar-mudra-loans-rural-women-empowerment-sbi-2926451/
43 3 III Economic Development
Inclusive growth and issues arising from it.
Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) is necessary for bringing unbanked to the institutional finance fold. Do you agree with this for financial inclusion of the poor section of the Indian society? Give arguments to justify your opinion.
12.5 Easy Current Affairs
oriented N/A
http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/pradhan-mantri-jandhan-yojana-an-ambitious-plan-for-financial-inclusion/article6329379.ece http://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/editorials/jan-dhan-yojana-zero-balance-account-problems-investigation-rupay-debit-cards-aadhaar-3029844/ http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/opinion/jan-dhan-yojana-fraud-should-be-curbed/article9169214.ece
PM Jan Dhan Yojana launched to achieve financial inclusion in country but due financial illiteracy among poor section there was increasing fraudulent activities that raised questions on PMJDY scheme.
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44 4 III Economic Development
Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways, etc.
What are ‘Smart Cities’? Examine their relevance for urban development in India. Will it increase rural-urban differences? Give arguments for ’Smart Villages’ in the light of PURA and RURBAN Mission.
12.5 Easy Current Affairs
oriented N/A
http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/need-to-focus-on-smart-villages-not-smart-cities-azam-khan/article7630786.ece http://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/city-must-be-equitable-not-smart/ http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-others/smart-villages-not-smart-cities-are-need-of-the-hour-tarun-gogoi-tells-pm-narendra-modi/ http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/opinion/why-a-smart-villages-scheme-makes-sense/article8844976.ece
Many states criticized Smart City initiatives and said India needed smart villages. There was news daily debates last year on this topic. Straight forward question from news dailies.
45 5 III Economic Development
Effects of liberalization on the economy, changes in industrial policy and their effects on industrial growth.
Justify the need for FDI for the development of the Indian economy. Why there is gap between MOUs signed and actual FDIs? Suggest remedial steps to be taken for increasing actual FDIs in India.
12.5 Difficult
Basic and Current Affairs
oriented
Indian Economy -
Ramesh Singh
http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/Is-FDI-really-a-gift-horse/article14463394.ece http://www.livemint.com/Politics/Uoqjh52G8jkIuf94k3GPjM/Why-FDI-inflows-to-India-are-slowing-down.html
46 6 III Economic Development
Inclusive growth and issues arising from it.
Comment on the challenges for inclusive growth which include careless and useless manpower in the Indian context. Suggest measures to be taken for facing these challenges.
12.5 Medium Basic
Question
Economics NCERT - Class 11 and Indian
Economy - Ramesh
Singh
http://indianexpress.com/article/explained/wef-reports-thumbs-down-for-india-on-inclusive-growth-provides-no-roadmap-for-solutions/ http://www.thehindu.com/business/inclusive-growth-a-key-factor/article8258219.ece
Direct Question from UPSC syllabus.
47 7 III Economic Development
Major crops cropping patterns in various parts of the country, different types of irrigation and irrigation systems storage, transport and marketing of agricultural produce and issues and related constraints.
What is water-use efficiency? Describe the role of micro-irrigation in increasing the water-use efficiency.
12.5 Medium Basic
Question
Economics NCERT - Class 11 and Indian
Economy - Ramesh
Singh
http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-opinion/water-will-continue-to-be-scarce/article8520927.ece http://www.livemint.com/Politics/BkgERIIfG77UzWZRC3HsAM/Microirrigation-lags-far-behind-potential-shows-study.html
India is facing water resource shortage and experts opined that Agriculture sector needs increased water use efficiency by way of micro-irrigation.
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48 8 III Economic Development
Major crops cropping patterns in various parts of the country, different types of irrigation and irrigation systems storage, transport and marketing of agricultural produce and issues and related constraints.
What is allelopathy? Discuss its role in major cropping systems of irrigated agriculture.
12.5 Difficult Expert level
Question
Economics NCERT - Class 11 and Indian
Economy - Ramesh
Singh
N/A
Difficult question asked by UPSC on agriculture irrigation. Without understanding aleopathy it is difficult to approach this question.
49 9 III Economic Development
Land reforms in India.
Discuss the role of land reforms in agricultural development. Identify the factors that were responsible for the success of land reforms in India.
12.5 Easy Basic
Question
Economics NCERT - Class 11 and Indian
Economy - Ramesh
Singh
http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/The-ground-beneath-our-feet/article15477574.ece http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/GST-land-reforms-key-to-boost-India%E2%80%99s-economic-growth-IMF/article14298950.ece
Straight forward question from the UPSC syllabus.
50 10 III Economic Development
Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies and minimum support prices.
Given the vulnerability of Indian agriculture to vagaries of nature, discuss the need for crop insurance and bring out the salient features of the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY).
12.5 Medium Current Affairs
oriented N/A
http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=134432 http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/Govt-approves-new-crop-insurance-plan-for-farmers/article13997360.ece http://indianexpress.com/about/pradhan-mantri-fasal-bima-yojana/
Government launched new crop insurance scheme called fasal bima yojana for the benefit of agricultural sector. UPSC asked question based on current events.
51 11 III Economic Development
Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways, etc.
Give an account of the current status and the targets to be achieved pertaining to renewable energy sources in the country. Discuss in brief the importance of National Programme on Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs).
12.5 Easy Current Affairs
Oriented N/A
http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=114328 http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/govts-led-drive-to-save-over-rs-45000-crore/article8285361.ece
Current Affair based question on new government scheme on LEDs.
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52 12 III Science and Technology
Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, robotics, nano-technology, bio-technology.
Discuss India’s achievements in the field of Space Science and Technology. How the application of this technology has helped India in its socio-economic development?
12.5 Easy Current Affairs
Oriented N/A
http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-in-school/A-fruitful-year-for-ISRO/article16921536.ece http://indianexpress.com/article/research/isro-rlv-td-history-of-indias-space-research-space-activities-space-journeys-isro-launches-reusable-launch-vehicle-spacecraft-2815247/
ISRO made many successful launches in the last decade or so with launch of Chandrayan, MoM, NaVic etc. and getting praises from techological experts.
53 13 III Science and Technology
Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, robotics, nano-technology, bio-technology.
Why is nanotechnology one of the key technologies of the 21st century? Describe the salient features of Indian Government’s Mission on Nanoscience and Technology and the scope of its application in the development process of the country.
12.5 Medium
Basic and Current Affairs
oriented
Computers and
Communication
Technology- Class XI NCERTs
http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/karnataka/%E2%80%98Nanotechnology-changing-lives%E2%80%99/article14556821.ece http://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/IIT-team-with-a-Midas-touch-on-a-nano-scale/article16441866.ece
It is a syllabus based question.
54 14 III Economic Development
Linkages between development and spread of extremism.
Rehabilitation of human settlements is one of the important environmental impacts which always attracts controversy while planning major projects. Discuss the measures suggested for mitigation of this impact while proposing major developmental projects.
12.5 Medium
Basic and Fundamen
tal Question
Second ARC Report
http://arc.gov.in/arc_7th_report/arc_7th_report.htm
It is a basic question based on syllabus but students need to write good quality answers.
55 15 III Disaster management
Disaster and disaster management.
The frequency of urban floods due to high intensity rainfall is increasing over the years. Discussing the reasons for urban floods, highlight the mechanisms for preparedness to reduce the risk during such events.
12.5 Easy Current Affairs
Oriented N/A
http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/columns/homeland-column-chennai-and-indias-urban-nightmares/article7958641.ece http://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/india-urban-planning-agrarian-settlement-urban-floods-monsoon-poor-drainage-system-3061984/ http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/national/coastal-cities-prone-to-storm-surges-flooding/article8010932.ece
Urban Floods like Chennai, Mumbai and other major cities witnessed floods, based on this there was series of articles on Newsdaily.
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56 16 III Disaster management
Disaster and disaster management.
With reference to National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) guidelines, discuss the measures to be adopted to mitigate the impact of recent incidents of cloudbursts in many places of Uttarakhand.
12.5 Medium Current Affairs
Oriented N/A
http://www.ndma.gov.in/images/guidelines/flood.pdf http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/NDMA-suggests-10-point-plan-to-tackle-floods/article14596142.ece http://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/india-natural-calamities-disasters-chennai-uttarakhand-mumbai-floods/ http://www.hindustantimes.com/analysis/the-new-national-disaster-management-plan-has-several-flaws/story-LrHOFHXg9gwrtOgYjXJDrK.html
Based on Uttarkand Floods NDMA proposed some new guidelines for better flood and disaster management.
57 17 III Security
Security challenges and their management in border areas.
The terms ‘Hot Pursuit’ and ‘Surgical Strikes’ are often used in connection with armed action against terrorist attacks. Discuss the strategic impact of such actions.
12.5 Easy Current Affairs
Oriented N/A
http://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/uri-attack-aftermath-india-pakistan-policy-narendra-modi-government-3053395/ http://www.livemint.com/Politics/CPzBbSRml0G2f5BTiVCn0N/What-is-a-surgical-strike.html
In 2016, India Army conducted Surgical strike against Pakistan Army camps for border infiltration.
58 18 III Security
linkages of organized crime with terrorism.
‘Terrorism is emerging as a competitive industry over the last few decades.” Analyse the above statement.
12.5 Medium Current Affairs
Oriented N/A
http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/ideology-and-the-rise-of-terror/article6805736.ece http://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/used-by-terror/
With the growing terrorism across world by ISIS, Taliban and other terrorist activities has increased in the last decades.
59 19 III Security
Challenges to internal security through communication networks, role of media and social networking sites in internal security challenges.
Border management is a complex task due to difficult terrain and hostile relations with some countries. Elucidate the challenges and strategies for effective border management.
12.5 Easy
Basic and Current Affairs
oriented
N/A
http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/Gazing-at-a-longer-horizon/article16438377.ece http://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/web-edits/for-india-internal-security-a-greater-challenge-despite-border-skirmishes/ http://pib.nic.in/feature/feyr2001/fsep2001/f170920011.html
India faces border challenges from Pakistan, China and Bangladesh. In 2016, there were more border disputes between Pakistan and China for India.
60 20 III Security
Challenges to internal security through communication networks, role of media and social networking sites in internal security challenges.
Use of internet and social media by non-state actors for subversive activities is a major security concern. How have these been misused in the recent past? Suggest effective guidelines to curb the above threat.
12.5 Medium
Basic and Current Affairs
oriented
N/A
http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/bureaucracy-military-ties-use-of-social-media-worrying-defence-minister-manohar-parrikar-3736303/ http://indianexpress.com/article/technology/tech-news-technology/indian-users-complacent-when-it-comes-to-cyber-security-norton-report/ http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/opinion/we-need-a-robust-cyber-security-policy/article9107956.ece
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61 1A
IV Ethics Ethics and Human Interface
Explain how ethics contributes to social and human well being?
10 Easy Basic and Syllabus based
Chronicles Lexicon for
Ethics N/A
Basic question based on the syllabus, conceptual understanding in needed to answer such questions
62 1B
IV Ethics
Aptitude and foundational values for Civil Service , integrity, impartiality and non-partisanship, objectivity, dedication to public service, empathy, tolerance and compassion towards the weakersections.
Why should impartiality and non-partisanship be considered as foundational values in public services, especially in the present day socio-political context? Illustrate your answers with examples.
10 Medium Basic and Syllabus based
Chronicles Lexicon for
Ethics N/A
Basic question based on the syllabus, conceptual understanding in needed to answer such questions
63 2A
IV Ethics
accountability and ethical governance; strengthening of ethical and moral values in governance
What do you understand by the terms 'governance', 'good governance' and 'ethical governance'
10 Medium Basic and Syllabus based
Chronicles Lexicon for
Ethics N/A
Basic question based on the syllabus, conceptual understanding in needed and also demands individual opinion in answer writing.
64 2B
IV Ethics
Human Values – lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders
Discuss Mahatma Gandhi's concept of seven sins.
10 Difficult Basic and Syllabus based
Chronicles Lexicon for
Ethics N/A
If candidates knows seven sins of Mahatma Gandhi, then it is easy to write or else it is difficult to answer such questions.
65 3A
IV Ethics
Human Values – lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders
Analyse John Rawl's concept of Social Justice in Indian context.
10 Difficult Basic and Syllabus based
Chronicles Lexicon for
Ethics N/A
Without understanding John Rawl's concept of Social Justice, answering this question makes difficult.
66 3B
IV Ethics
Probity in Governance: Codes of Ethics, Codes of Conduct.
Discuss Public Services code as recommended by 2nd Administrative Reforms Commission.
10 Medium Basic and Syllabus based
Chronicles Lexicon for
Ethics N/A Syllabus based question.
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67 4A
IV Ethics
Probity in Governance: challenges of corruption
"Corruption causes misuse of government treasury, administrative inefficiency and obstruction in the path of national development". Discuss Kautalya's views
10 Medium Basic and Syllabus based
Chronicles Lexicon for
Ethics N/A
Corruption issues is mentioned in Syllabus but question asked is kautalya's views.
68 4B
IV Ethics
Attitude: social influence and persuasion.
How could social influence and persuasion contribute to the success of Swatch Bharat Abhiyaan?
10 Medium
Basic and Current Affairs
oriented
Chronicles Lexicon for
Ethics N/A
UPSC is trying to link current issues with ethics.
69 5 IV Ethics
laws, rules, regulations and conscience as sources of ethical guidance
Law and ethics are considered to be the two tools for controlling human conduct so as to make it conducive to the civilised social existence. (a) Discuss how they achieve this objective (b) Giving examples, show how the two differ in their approches
10 Easy Basic and Syllabus based
Chronicles Lexicon for
Ethics N/A Syllabus based question.
70 6 IV Ethics
Attitude: content, structure, function; its influence and relation with thought and behaviou
Our attitudes towards life, work, other people and society are generally shaped unconsciously by the family and the social surroundings in which we grow up. Some of these unconsciously acquired attitudes and values are often undesirable in the citizens of a modern democratic and egalitarian society.(a) Discuss such undesirable values prevalent in today’s educated Indians.(b) How can such undesirable attitudes be changed and socio-ethical values considered necessary in
10 Medium Basic and Syllabus based
Chronicles Lexicon for
Ethics N/A Syllabus based question.
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public services be cultivated in the aspiring and serving civil servants?
71 7 IV Ethics
Emotional intelligence-concepts, and their utilities and application in administration and governance.
Anger is a harmful negative emotion. It is injurious to both personal life and work life. (a) Discuss how it leads to negative emotions and undesirable behaviours. (b) How can it managed and controlled?
10 Medium Basic and Syllabus based
Chronicles Lexicon for
Ethics N/A Syllabus based question.
72 8 IV Ethics
Public/Civil service values and Ethics in Public administration
“Max Weber said that it is not wise to apply to public administration the sort of moral and ethical norms we apply to matters of personal conscience. It is important to realise that the State bureaucracy might possess its own independent bureaucratic morality.” Critically analyse this statement.
10 Difficult Basic and Syllabus based
Chronicles Lexicon for
Ethics N/A
It is a public administration topic, it demands understanding of Max Weber's view on public administration.
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General Analysis of 2016 Mains GS Papers
Most of the questions asked in 2016 mains were syllabus based.
In GS paper 1, most of the questions were directly asked from syllabus topics.
Few History questions were repetitive from previous year mains question papers.
Geography questions were more tilted towards current affairs oriented.
Society questions were also repetive and syllabus based.
GS Paper 2 and 3 are more current affairs based questions but for answering those questions it needed conceptual understanding of the topics.
As usual, UPSC set the question paper in more dynamic way but most of the questions were on the expected lines on the last one year current affairs based.
But still there are few questions in each paper, which is quite difficult to answer, since it demands expert level of understanding.
Those candidates who have followed last one to two years’ current affairs correctly, for them this question paper would have been cake walk.
Ethics paper, still need to be exploited, only 4 years of introduction, it is emerging in nature.
Case studies need more individual abilty to analyse the issue than need of theoretical knowledge.
Overall, one who regularly practiced answer writing based on current events would have definitely got interview call.
Difficulty Analysis
GS Paper 1 GS Paper 2 GS Paper 3
Difficulty level
Percentage Number of Questions Marks
Easy 35 7 87.5
Medium 55 11 137.5
Difficult 5 1 12.5
Easy37%
Medium58%
Difficult5%
GS PAPER 1 (DIFFICULT LEVEL)
Easy Medium Difficult
Easy5%
Medium70%
Difficult25%
GS PAPER 2 (DIFFICULT LEVEL)
Easy Medium Difficult
Easy40%
Medium50%
Difficult10%
GS PAPER 3 (DIFFICULT LEVEL)
Difficulty level
Percentage Number of Questions
Marks
Easy 40 8 100
Medium 50 10 125
Difficult 10 2 25
Difficulty level
Percentage Number of Questions
Marks
Easy 5 1 12.5
Medium 70 14 175
Difficult 25 5 62.5
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Topic Analysis
GS Paper 1 GS Paper 2 GS Paper 3
Syllabus Topics Percentage No of Questions Marks
Art and Culture 5 1 12.5
Modern India 20 4 50
Post Independent India 5 1 12.5
World History 5 1 12.5
Society 25 5 62.5
Geography 40 8 100
5%
20%
5%5%
25%
40%
GS PAPER 1 (TOPIC ANALYSIS)
Art and Culture Modern India
Post Independent India World History
Society Geography
40%
25%
15%
20%
GS PAPER 2 (TOPIC ANALYSIS)
Polity Governace
Social Justice International Relations
10%
60%
20%
10%
GS PAPER 3 (TOPIC ANALYSIS)
Technology Economic Development
Security Disaster management
Syllabus Topics Percentage No of Questions Marks
Technology 10 2 25
Economic Development 60 12 150
Security 20 4 50
Disaster management 10 2 25
Syllabus Topics Percentage No of Questions Marks
Polity 40 8 100
Governace 25 5 62.5
Social Justice 15 3 37.5
International Relations 20 4 50