GS-1 Jan 2015 To March 2015 PDF

2015
General Studies Paper-1:Insights Secure Compilation

January to March 2015
http://www.insightsonindia.com
General Studies Paper-1:Insights Secure Compilation January to March 2015
Table of Contents
Topic: Social empowerment................................................................................................................11
Q) It is a concern that the lowest child sex ratios are found in the most prosperous regions of
India. Discuss the causes for the low child sex ratio and its effects on the Indian society. (150
Words) ..............................................................................................................................................11
Topic: Salient features of the Indian Society; ................................................................................... 12
Q) With the rising literacy rates and urbanisation is it true to say that the caste system is
dying? Discuss in the context of political, social and economic spheres? (200 Words)............ 12
Topic: Salient features of the Indian Society; ................................................................................... 13
Q) ―The early school of anthropologists tended to emphasise the cultural aspects of tribal
absorption into the mainstream, while the later writers have concentrated on the exploitative
and political nature of the incorporation.‖ Which of the views did the government of India and
its visionary leaders adopt for tribal development in post independence era and why? (200
Words) ............................................................................................................................................. 13
Topic: Salient features of the Indian Society; ................................................................................. 14
Q) Critically analyse the impact of globalisation on Indian villages and agrarian structures.
(200 Words) .................................................................................................................................... 14
Topic: Salient features of Indian Society, Diversity of India; .......................................................... 14
Topic: Salient features of Indian Society, Diversity of India; .......................................................... 15
Topic: Salient features of Indian Society, Diversity of India; ....................................................... 16
Q) ―In the name of ‗national development‘ and ‗economic growth‘, government policies have
resulted in internal colonialism, subjugating tribes and alienating their land and forest
resources upon which they depend.‖Elucidate. (200 Words) ..................................................... 16
Topic: Communalism, Regionalism & Secularism; Q) ―Communalism is more about politics
and less about religion.‖ Discuss with a special reference to the South Asian nations. (200
Words) ................................................................................................................................................. 18
Topic: Communalism, Regionalism & Secularism; ........................................................................ 19
Q) Indian secularism is considered as pseudo-secularism by certain sections of the society.Do
you agree with this view? Critically analyse. (200 Words) .......................................................... 19
Topic: Communalism, Regionalism & Secularism; ....................................................................... 20
Q) Do you agree with the view that in the emergence of modern nation state system, the
realities had come first before principles and ideals? (200 Words) .......................................... 20
Topic: Population and associated issues; ........................................................................................ 21
Q) India is moving towards third stage of demographic transition i.e. replacement-level
fertility. Discuss. What measures can be adopted by government to stabilize the population at
a faster pace? What are the reasons behind difference in fertility rates across the states? (200
Words) ............................................................................................................................................. 21
Topic: Poverty and associated issues; .............................................................................................22
http://www.insightsonindia.com Page 1
Q) ―Poverty is clearly not a reason for falling sex ratio.‖ Elucidate. (200 Words) ....................22
Topic: Population and associated issues; ........................................................................................23
Q) While the overall sex ratio has improved to 940 as compared to 933 in 2001, the child (0-6
years) sex ratio has shown an unabated decline since 1961. How do you explain this
contradiction? (200 Words) ..........................................................................................................23
Topic: Social empowerment; ............................................................................................................24
Q) When we take land away from tribals, we take their life spirit. Discuss this statement in the
light of forceful land acquisition in tribal areas since independence. Highlight the special
provisions made for STs in the recent land acquisition act to protect their interests. (200
Words) .............................................................................................................................................24
Topic: World wars, Redrawl of national boundaries; ................................................................... 25
Q) ‗Extreme nationalism of fascist variety has various faces in various countries,but it has
everywhere in common characteristics.‘ Critically analyse. (200 Words).................................. 25
Topic: Post-independence consolidation and reorganization within the country; .....................26
Q) ―The popular rise of the slogan for azaadi in Kashmir in the late 1990s was on the account
of religious fundamentalism which was left unchallenged and an Indian state which viewed a
community merely as pawns in their geostrategic game.‖ Critically comment. (200 Words)..26
Topic: Distribution of key natural resources across the world (including South Asia and the
Indian subcontinent); ........................................................................................................................28
Q) Bring out the present day position of exploitation and processing of nuclear minerals in
India. (200 Words) .........................................................................................................................28
Topic: factors responsible for the location of primary, secondary, and tertiary sector
industries in various parts of the world (including India); ...........................................................28
Q) Explain the factors promoting the rapid growth and development of auto-mobile industry
in India, giving suitable examples. (200 Words) .........................................................................28
industries in various parts of the world (including India); ...........................................................29
Q) Critically examine the locational pattern and trend of production of forest based industries
in India. (200 Words).....................................................................................................................29
Topic: poverty and developmental issues........................................................................................ 31
Q) What do you understand by regional planning? Critically evaluate the success of five year
plans in addressing regional inequality in India. (200 Words)................................................... 31
Topic: poverty and developmental issues........................................................................................32
Q) How did the concept of sustainable development evolve? How is it different from economic
development? If you are posted as District Collector, what measures will you take to ensure
sustainable development in your district? Suggest out of the box measures. (200 Words) .....32
Topic: Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature and Architecture
from ancient to modern times...........................................................................................................33
Q) ―…India as a repository of countless performing arts, local health practices, indigenous

knowledge systems and rich language traditions spanning generations could ill-afford to
destroy or lose it.‖ Discuss with suitable examples. (200 Words) ..............................................33
Topic: History of the world ...............................................................................................................34
Q) Discuss why the name – Anne Frank – is pivotal in the history of the modern world. (150
Words) .............................................................................................................................................34
Topic: changes in critical geographical features (including waterbodies and ice-caps) and in flora
and fauna and the effects of such changes. ....................................................................................... 35
Q) Write a critical note on the effect of climate change on world‘s oceans. (150 Words) ......... 35
Topic: Urbanisation – their problems and their remedies. .............................................................36
Q) Why slums are considered as ‗problems‘ in urban regions? Examine why slums have
developed in many Indian cities and also critically comment if they should be treated as
important stakeholders in urban economy or should be eliminated to beautify cities. (200
Words) .............................................................................................................................................36
Topic: changes in critical geographical features ............................................................................ 37
Q) What do you understand by land degradation? Suggest measures for reduction of land
degradation. (150 Words) .............................................................................................................. 37
Topic: Salient features of Indian Society; poverty and developmental issues; Effects of
globalization on Indian society.........................................................................................................38
Q) According to recent Global Slavery Index, vulnerability of the average Indian citizen to
modern slavery is rated at 56.7 per cent. Why do you think such high rate of vulnerability
exists in India? Also examine the role of NHRC in addressing the issue of modern slavery.
(200 Words) ....................................................................................................................................38
Topic: Salient features of Indian Society; urbanization, their problems and their remedies. ..39
Q) In the light of recent political trends, critically examine the impact of urban politics on
urbanization and urban development in India‘s major cities. (200 Words) ..............................39
Topic: political philosophies like communism, capitalism, socialism etc.- their forms and effect
on the society ..................................................................................................................................... 40
Q) ―Capitalism expands material well-being by replacing existing technologies, products and
business methods with superior substitutes. Though this initially disrupts established
industries and communities, it is the main engine of economic progress.‖ In the light of this
statement, discuss the costs of capitalism, and examine if these costs are worth bearing in
pursuit of economic progress through capitalism. (200 Words) ............................................... 40
Topic: urbanization, their problems and their remedies................................................................ 41
Q) Plastic, the major municipal solid waste, is posing big threat to world‘s water bodies.
Examine the magnitude of pollution caused by plastic and remedies to address adverse effects
caused by its dumping. (200 Words) ............................................................................................ 41
industries in various parts of the world (including India) ............................................................42
Q) India‘s information technology (IT) services industry has traditionally been dominated by
exports – but, in the last couple of years, it is the domestic scene which has begun to matter.
Examine the factors that have enabled this shift and also examine prospects of such shift.
(200 Words) ....................................................................................................................................42
Topic: Social empowerment, communalism, regionalism & secularism ........................................43
Q) ‖ Secularism is not a policy option for a government, but one of the original principles that
inform the Constitution.‖ In the light of growing religious intolerance in India and the
governments‘ response to this, critically comment. (200 Words) ..............................................43
Topic: population and associated issues, poverty and developmental issues, urbanization, their
problems and their remedies. ...........................................................................................................44
Q) Recently it was proposed to create Special Entertainment Zones (SEZ) in Mumbai
where designated night zones (open 24 x 7) will be created and allow people to entertain
themselves securely. Do you find this proposal socially, culturally and economically good for
cities such as Mumbai, Kolkatta, Delhi and other metros? Can this idea be extended to tier-2
cities? Critically comment. (200 Words) ......................................................................................44
Topic: changes in critical geographical features (including waterbodies and ice-caps) and in
flora and fauna and the effects of such changes. ............................................................................ 45
Q) In 2014 and 2015, Brazil is experiencing one of the worst droughts in its history. Examine
its causes and its effect on Brazil‘s economy and environment. (200 Words) ........................... 45
Indian subcontinent)..........................................................................................................................46
Q) In the light of recent developments in coal sector and its importance to the Indian
economy, examine why coal is called as black gold in India. (200 Words)................................46
Topic: The Freedom Struggle – its various stages and important contributors /contributions
from different parts of the country................................................................................................... 47
Q) Critically analyse the nature of relationship Gandhiji had with Britain and the British
during the national movement. (200 Words)............................................................................... 47
Topic: Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the
present- significant events, personalities, issues ............................................................................48
Q) Some columnists have argued that Sant Gadge Baba (1876-1956), a saint from
Maharashtra, should be made icon for clean India mission. Examine why. (200 Words) .......48
Q) Write a note on the various factors that determine the location of tertiary and quaternary
industries. (200 Words) .................................................................................................................49
Topic: geographical features and their location- changes in critical geographical features
(including waterbodies and ice-caps)................................................................................................50
Q) Recently efforts have been made to bring the mythical Saraswati river to the surface by the
Haryana government and the Union government. What are the possible reasons for the
disappearance of this river if it existed in ancient times and what is your opinion on efforts
made to revive the river. (200 Words) ..........................................................................................50
Q) A recent survey has shown that urbanisation is not a panacea for concerns about public
safety. Rather, cities must invest in the ―right kind‖ of urbanisation, with the sort of
infrastructure seen in the largest cities. What in your opinion is ‗right kind‘ of urbanisation
that ensures public safety, especially safety for women? Discuss. (200 Words) ....................... 51
Q) Critically examine the main causes and consequences of urban air pollution in India. What
efforts have been made and what needs to be done to address this problem? Comment. (200
Words) ............................................................................................................................................. 52
Topic: Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of Architecture in ancient times. ............... 54
Q) ―Lomas Rishi cave in the Barabar Hills of Bihar and gateways of some of Buddhist stupas
are an excellent example showing true imitations in stone of early wooden constructions.‖
Examine. (150 Words) .................................................................................................................... 54
Topic: Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of Architecture in medieval times. ............ 55
Q) Compare and contrast the Indo-Islamic architecture with that of temple architecture in
India. (200 Words) ......................................................................................................................... 55
Topic: Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of Architecture in modern times. .............. 56
Q) Do we have anything today as representative of Modern Architecture which could be
compared with our old buildings? Critically examine. (200 Words) .......................................... 56
Topic: Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of Literature in modern times. .................. 57
Q) ―Unlike in Europe where, by the 17th century, French and English had broken with the
dominance of Latin to create not just literature, but also philosophy, historiography,
sociology, science etc in their tongues, in India the achievement of regional languages beyond
the crucial (and yet also limited) domain of literature is a major impediment.‖ In the light of
ongoing movements to make regional languages medium of instruction in schools and politics
associated with them, critically examine why regional languages have failed to excel in fields
other than literature. (200 Words)................................................................................................ 57
Topic: Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the present-
significant events, personalities, issues.............................................................................................58
Topic: Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the present-
significant events, personalities, issues............................................................................................. 59
Q) Critically examine how did British colonialism affect tribal way of life and their
relationship with the forests in the nineteenth century. How did tribals react to this and with
what consequences? Examine. (200 Words) ................................................................................ 59
Topic: Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the
present- significant events, personalities, issues ............................................................................ 59
Q) The most militant and widespread of the peasant movements was the Indigo Revolt of
1859-60. Did it succeed in its objectives? If so, how? Examine. (200 Words)........................... 59
from ancient to modern times.......................................................................................................... 60
Q) Write a note on the significance of the statue of dancing girl of Mohenjodaro to India‘s art
and culture. (150 Words)............................................................................................................... 60
from ancient to modern times........................................................................................................... 61
Q) Examine the influence of Buddhism and its concepts on the art of Mauryan empire with
suitable examples. (150 Words)..................................................................................................... 61
Q) ―Gupta sculpture is the logical outcome of the early classical sculpture of Amravati and
Mathura.‖ Discuss with examples. (150 Words)...........................................................................62
Topic: changes in critical geographical features (including waterbodies and ice-caps) and in
flora and fauna and the effects of such changes; Paper-3; Conservation ....................................63
Q) Critically discuss the effects of deforestation on Indian economy. (200 Words) .................63
Topic: Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of Art Forms from ancient to modern times.
..............................................................................................................................................................64
Q) Describe the nature and form of wall paintings of Ajanta caves. (200 Words) ....................64
..............................................................................................................................................................64
Q) Write short notes on the following in about 100 words: ........................................................64
a) The Mughal School of Painting .................................................................................................64
b) Basohli School of Painting ........................................................................................................64
c) Kangra School of Painting..........................................................................................................64
..............................................................................................................................................................66
Q) With suitable examples, explain what features describe the ‗modern school‘ of Indian
painting. (200 Words) ....................................................................................................................66
from different parts of the country...................................................................................................66
Q) Which names stand out among the large number of Indians who initiated and carried out
the economic analysis of British rule during the years 1870-1905? Analyse how they
interpreted colonialism and what impact their analyses had on India‘s national movement.
(200 Words) ....................................................................................................................................66
from different parts of the country................................................................................................... 67
Q) Critically examine how did the Press started by prominent Indians both in English and
vernacular languages influence the freedom struggle. Also examine how the British reacted to
this medium of national awakening. (200 Words) ...................................................................... 67
from different parts of the country.................................................................................................. 68
Q) ―Legislative Councils in India had no real official power till 1920. Yet, work done in them
by the nationalists helped the growth of the national movement.‖ Examine. (200 Words) .... 68
from different parts of the country...................................................................................................69
Q) An important aspect of the Swadeshi Movement was the great emphasis given to self-
reliance or ‗Atmasakti‘ as a necessary part of the struggle against the Government. What was
the nature of ‗Atmasakti‘ and how successful was it in its objective during the movement?
Examine. (200 Words) ...................................................................................................................69
Topic: Effects of globalization on Indian society..............................................................................70
Q) ―The State of the elderly in India: 2014 report serves to highlight the dichotomy between
an apparently happy picture of increased longevity and the reality of long years of
hopelessness without family, society or state support, which the elderly in India face today.‖
Critically analyse. (200 Words) .....................................................................................................70
Topic: Women issues.......................................................................................................................... 71
Q) The union government has decided to set up ‗One-Stop Centres‘ that will provide
assistance, legal advice and psychological counselling to women who have ‗faced‘ violence or
abuse. Critically comment on measures such as this one which try to ‗address‘ violence against
women. (200 Words)...................................................................................................................... 71
Topic: Salient features of Indian Society .......................................................................................... 72
Q) ―A society that believes that every woman, irrespective of her moral or sexual choices, has
the right to her own body, must also believe that a person, irrespective of the crime he is
accused of, has the right to the due process of law.‖ In the light of recent incidences where
mobs took law in their hands, critically comment on the statement. (200 Words) .................. 72
.............................................................................................................................................................. 73
Q) Write a note on different aspects of India‘s traditional dance system. (200 Words) ........... 73
.............................................................................................................................................................. 74
Q) Compare and contrast expression and art forms between Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi.
(200 Words) .................................................................................................................................... 74
.............................................................................................................................................................. 75
Q) Write a note on the influence of religion and religious practices on some of India‘s
traditional dance forms. (200 Words) .......................................................................................... 75
Topic: Women issues; Women Empowerment ................................................................................ 75

Q) ―Despite the gains women have made in education, health and even political power in the
course of a generation, violence against women and girls worldwide ‗persists at alarmingly
high levels,‘ according to a United Nations analysis.‖ Critically analyse the magnitude of this
problem and suggest what needs to be done at global level to address this issue. (200 Words)
.......................................................................................................................................................... 75
Topic: population and associated issues .......................................................................................... 77
Q) An interesting way of studying the population composition of a country is by looking at the
population pyramid, also called an age-sex pyramid. With examples, examine how this
pyramid helps in studying population composition of a country. (200 Words) ........................ 77
Topic: Geographical features and their location- changes in critical geographical features......... 77
Q) Landslides have become frequent hazards in the Himalayan regions. Examine the causes of
these landslides and measures needed to mitigate them. (200 Words) ..................................... 77
Topic: geographical features and their location- changes in critical geographical features .........78
Q) Write a critical note on the effect of soil erosion on the environment and methods used in
soil conservation. (200 Words) .....................................................................................................78
Topic: Resources................................................................................................................................. 79
Q) What are the different non-conventional sources of energy? Do you think they have been
adequately utilized in India? Critically examine. (200 Words)................................................... 79
industries in various parts of the world (including India) ........................................................... 80
Q) What are the important factors that determine the location of an industry? With suitable
examples, examine the factors responsible for the location and growth of cotton industry
around the world. (200 Words) .................................................................................................... 80
Q) Examine the roots of classical Indian music and its evolution into major forms. (200
Words) .............................................................................................................................................82
Q) Analyse the major differences between Carnatic and Hindustani classical music forms.
(200 Words) ....................................................................................................................................83
Topic: Salient features of world’s physical geography (including India) ....................................83
Q) How did Northern Plains of India originate? Describe their prominent features and their
importance to India‘s economy. (200 Words)..............................................................................83
Topic: Salient features of world’s physical geography (including India) ....................................84
Q) What are the major differences between Peninsular rivers and the Himalayan rivers of
India? Do you think linking of peninsular rivers with the Himalayan rivers is a feasible idea?
Examine. (200 Words) ...................................................................................................................84
Topic: changes in critical geographical features (including waterbodies and ice-caps)............... 86
Q) Write a critical note on river pollution in India and the measures taken by the Union
government to clean polluted rivers. (200 Words) ..................................................................... 86
Q) Write a note on cultural significance of puppet forms and throw light on some forms of
Southern India. (200 Words) ........................................................................................................87
industries in various parts of the world (including India) ........................................................... 88
Q) The potential of tourism industry in India remains untapped despite efforts made by
successive governments since independence. Suggest what proactive measures are needed to
revive this sector. (200 Words) .................................................................................................... 88
Q) It is analysed that by 1907, the Moderate nationalists had exhausted their historical role in
India‘s struggle against colonialism. Examine why did moderates fail and with what
consequences. (200 Words).......................................................................................................... 89
Topic:The Freedom Struggle – its various stages and important contributors /contributions
Q) Do you think the Ghadarite movement was a failure considering they could not fulfill the
objectives of their movement? Critically comment. (200 Words) ............................................. 90
Q) The Home Rule League Movement, led by Lokamanya Tilak and Annie Besant, was less
charged but more effective compared to other movements of the time. Examine how and why.
(200 Words) ................................................................................................................................... 90
Topic: Salient features of Indian Society ......................................................................................... 91
Q) With suitable examples, critically comment on the role of popular cinema and media in
influencing opinion and perception of common man about women in India. (200 Words) .... 91
Indian subcontinent) (this topic can be linked to several topics between Papers 1,2 and 3) ......92
Q) Discuss why the Indian Ocean is considered as critical to the future of the world and India.
(200 Words) ....................................................................................................................................92
Topic: ; factors responsible for the location of primary, secondary, and tertiary sector
Q) As per recent news reports, the sugar industry of Uttar Pradesh is in deep crises. Critically
examine the roots of these crises and comment on them. (200 Words) ....................................93
Topic:Geography of India ..................................................................................................................94
Q) Write a note on the factors that control climate of India. Also explain the origin of
monsoon rains in layman terms. (200 Words) ............................................................................94
Topic: Population and associated issues, ......................................................................................... 95
Q) What are the significant features of the National Population Policy 2000? Evaluate how
effective this policy has been in meeting its objectives. (200 Words) ........................................ 95
General Studies – 1
Topic: Social empowerment

Q) It is a concern that the lowest child sex ratios are found in the most
prosperous regions of India. Discuss the causes for the low child sex
ratio and its effects on the Indian society. (150 Words)
http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-opinion/the-love-for-sons-and-
appropriate-attire/article6822320.ece
http://www.epw.in/system/files/SA_L_1_030115_Sanchita_Bakshi_Arunish_Chawl
a_Mihir_Shah.pdf
Ans:
The child sex ratio of a society indicates the gender parity and the overall gender based
discrimination. The falling sex ratios in India indicate the deep-rooted biased against
women and clearly indicates that economic growth is not translating into gender parity
for women.
The causes for this include-

1. Patriarchal mindset of the Indian society
2. misuse of technology for foetal sex determination
3. The preference for male child due to various social and religious misconceptions
4. Improper implementation of the PCPNDT and MTP act
5. Bureaucratic failure to implement the various girl-child based schemes at grassroot
level
6. Due to less education among the females, they fail to stand for themselves
7. In the Indian male-dominated families, females have almost no say in decisions of sex
based abortions
Moreover this is a vicious cycle: low female literacy, social restrictions on females ---->
females dependent on family/husband economically------> no say in family planning,
improper implementation of laws---->sex selective abortions/neglect of girl child----
>low female literacy, continuance of social restrictions
The most basic impact is that half of India‘s population, cutting across castes, religions
and social statuses are discriminated and taught to ―live like girl‖ with many social,
educational and other restrictions.
Also, we are failing to harness the potential of half of our population leading to
increased poverty among the women & strengthening of patriarchal mindset in the
country
For a holistic growth of the country and following the natural laws of justice, it is the
duty of every Indian citizen to make the girl child equal to the male child and implement
in spirit ―Beti bachao, beti padhao‖.
Topic: Salient features of the Indian Society;

Q) With the rising literacy rates and urbanisation is it true to say that
the caste system is dying? Discuss in the context of political, social
and economic spheres? (200 Words)
http://www.ncert.nic.in/NCERTS/textbook/textbook.htm?lesy1=3-7
Ans: Caste is a kind of "social stratification" in India that is claiming its origin from
roots of "religion". Rising literacy levels and rapid urbanization have tremendous impact
on it.
Impact of literacy-
The "modern values" like "equality" and certain other "protective measures" which are
promised by our constitution are well known to literates over illiterates. Literacy, by
promoting rationality, is sensitizing people to not to follow medieval beast instincts.
caste is one among such instincts. we can find a few links between literacy and "socio
cultural movements" in India during 19 and 20th centuries.
Literacy made our vulnerable sections to be aware political opportunities that are
provided by positive discrimination. Social equality is being demanded. In economic
sphere, literacy is opening up many opportunities to oppressed castes. Thus "social
mobility" is being encouraged towards positive end.
Impact of urbanization-
"anonymity", "privacy" and "frequent mobility" in urban areas have significantly
reduced the influence of caste system in their surroundings. High literacy levels here are
also another factor. Politically caste's influence over vote bank is limited here.
Social discrimination on the lines of caste is considered to be a crime and redressal

mechanism works efficiently over that in rural areas. Economic opportunities are also
"distributed among all" as" industry and private sector" is well expanded in urban areas.
Nevertheless, it would be still be premature to assume that the caste system is dying. We
see "caste related gatherings" even in urban literates. "Marriage classifieds are still
mentioning about caste in urban areas". So we can say only that the caste's influence is
being eroded among Urban- literates

Q) “The early school of anthropologists tended to emphasise the
cultural aspects of tribal absorption into the mainstream, while the
later writers have concentrated on the exploitative and political
nature of the incorporation.” Which of the views did the government
of India and its visionary leaders adopt for tribal development in post
independence era and why? (200 Words)
Ans: Our national leaders saw three options for incorporating tribals-
1. The policy of isolation, which was followed by the British policy of marking reserved
areas for tribals thus pretending not to impinge on their culture, when in fact they did
for their profit.
2. The policy of assimilation- which they were afraid the civilization arrogance of
assimilation, which the Christian missionaries tried to do, albeit in a religious sense.
So, they decided to follow a policy of integration, where tribal culture and customs will
be respected, and they should grow according to their own geniuses and traditions, not
make a second rate copy of us.
This was laid out in Nehru's Tribal Panchsheel policy:

1. Non imposition- where tribals should be allowed to grow at their own pace and
understanding of the situation.
2. Respect of tribal customs, esp. land ownership, forest resources etc.
3. Development of tribal youth to grow leaders among them for development and social
change
4. Simplicity in administration, with voluntary agencies and local bodies playing a
prominent role rather than bureaucracy.
5. Emphasis on human growth.
The aim was to protect the tribals from the onslaught of development, to protect their
forest rights, and areas which are the most richly endowed.
But unfortunately, as the present situation shows, much leaves to be desired.

Q) Critically analyse the impact of globalisation on Indian villages and
agrarian structures. (200 Words)
Ans: Globalization opened gates for" greater mobility and faster connectivity". This new
trend brought significant changes in rural and agrarian sectors.
Impact on rural areas-

1. Works and employment are being generated.
2. Connectivity brought awareness regarding various issues. Modern values are being
advocated now.
3. Fuelling rural to urban migration. This in turn is increasing inward remittances.
4. Bringing up the culture of nuclear families in rural areas.
5. caste conscious in rural areas has been declining over past few years due to new
economic opportunities. Thus social stratification is being impacted.
Impact on agrarian structures-

1. Aiding mechanization of agriculture due to improved productivity
2. Reduction of disguised unemployment in agriculture sector by creating new
opportunities in other sectors.
3. Agricultural extension works are now spreading at faster paces due to new means in
connectivity.
4) Cropping patterns changed due to advent of Globalisation. Farmers shifted to more
commercial crops thus leaving them under vagaries of market for getting food
5) Globalisation created markets abroad. Thus increasing farmer's choices
6) More banks, so more formal credit facilities. Saving them from money lenders
7) Village as a Self sustaining unit is destroyed. (because of economic forces too)
Topic: Salient features of Indian Society, Diversity of India;

Q) Social stigma remains an obstacle to helping Indians cope with
mental health illness. In this backdrop how does the new mental
health policy seek to reach out to people with mental disabilities?
(200 Words)
http://www.prsindia.org/billtrack/the-right-of-persons-with-disabilities-bill-2014-
3122/
Ans: The disabled are rendered disabled not because they are biologically disabled but
because society rendered them so. Even the recognition of disability is absent from the
wider educational discourse. In this context, the announcement of a new policy on
Mental Health comes as a progressive step in recognizing a comprehensive and co-
ordinated response from the community as a whole.
The new policy seeks to promote mental health, enable recovery from the illness,
promote de-stigmatization and ensure their participation in socio-economic matters by
providing
accessible, affordable and quality health care within a right based framework. Some of
the objectives include:
- Increase access to mental health care especially the vulnerable section
- Reduce risk and incidence of suicide and attempt to suicide
- Ensure their rights are respected such as the right not to be institutionalized
- Enhancing financial allocation.
- ‗Mental Health Action Plan 365‘ which spells out specific roles for the Center, States,
local bodies and civil society organisations
- Establishing more central institutes to cater to the needs
- Admission of more students into branches of mental health education
However, despite the existence of a National Mental Health Program since 1982 there
has been very little effort to provide mental health services, particularly in rural areas.
Some
of the present concerns are:
- Prediction by WHO of about 20 percent mentally ill population in India by 2020
- Lack of psychiatrist
- Linkage between poverty and mental health
Q) “The women‟s question arose in modern India as part of the
nineteenth century middle class social reform movements.” Critically
analyse. (200 Words)
Ans: ―Giving freedom to women was thought of as the precursor to doom‖, this begin to
change in 19th century.
British were attracted to some social problems in India. They framed rules for
infanticide, child marriage, the prohibition of widow remarriage and overall deplorable
status of Indian women.
Laws like Bengal Regulation Act XXI termed female infanticide as a murder,
Consummation of marriage age was increased to ten, then twelve and then to fourteen.
Hindu Widow‘s Remarriage Act was passed in 1856. Abolition of Sati Act 1829 was
passed.
Raja Ram, Vidyasagar, and Ranade played vital Role in enactment of above laws and
educating masses about their rights and responsibilities towards women.
There were also women‘s movement organized by white-collar middle class women and
social workers from upper class. Feminist publications such as Manushi, Mahila
Andolan Patrika, Feminist Network were run by women to enlighten masses about
women‘s rights.
Social movements like Brahmo Samaj and Arya Samaj, with Theosophical society
brought some change in conditions of women in 19th century.
But, these changes and movements are yet to succeed. Women‘s literacy plays a major
role in emancipation of rules into reality. From 19th century to 21st century laws and
enlightenment have only help literate women to some extent in India.

Q) “In the name of „national development‟ and „economic growth‟,
government policies have resulted in internal colonialism,
subjugating tribes and alienating their land and forest resources upon
which they depend.”Elucidate. (200 Words)
Ans: The economic development of India is often criticized by the scholars, for it's loop-
sided development, they argued that the development of the nation is just like the
internal colonialism. The held that just like in the British era the development of the
nation and the benefit of the resources not reached to the common Indian's and they
only get exploited. Similarly contemporary development and growth alienated the
tribals and marginalized section to reap the economic benefits. Government is only
exploiting their forest resources but they are not getting any adequate return for that.
The statement can be proved by the simple statics that the 8-9% of the tribal population
is the 40% of the migrants due to the development projects. In which some of them
witnessed the multiple displacement 5 times in a single generation. Thus the urges of
growth eliminated one of the strata of the Indian society. Here it should to be noted that
such marginalized growth creates lots of predicaments for the nation.
On one side it hinders the political, social and economical justice obligations of the
Preamble, on other side it also creates a vulnerability for nation to tackle its internal
security. Rise of Left Wing Extremism is empirical evidence in this regard.
More on studies also shows that the role of these tribals in the other sphere is also
negligible. There is very minor percentage of the tribals engage in the public service
delivery or in the apex level administration which promotes the notion of insecurity and
antagonism in the nation.
Here it should to be worth to mention that GOI itself realize the fact and the 11th five
year plan comprehensively deals with the inclusive growth which is aimed at growth of
every strata of the Indian society.
Furthermore GOI also passed several legislations in recent years maintain the
sovereignty of the tribals on their land, role of SC is also laudable in this regard.
So while considering all these it is very clear that although government is working on it,
but still an intensified effort is needed to get the full fledged results
Topic: Communalism, Regionalism & Secularism;

Q) ―Communalism is more about politics and less about religion.‖ Discuss with a
special reference to the South Asian nations. (200 Words)
Ans: No religion encourages enmity. Every religion gives a big stress on values that are
common with humanity. Thus, Christianity gives stress on Love, Islam and Sikhism
stress on fraternity, Hinduism on tolerance, Jainism on non violence and Buddhism on
containing desire/greed.
All religions together give big stress on humanity. Hence when we see the
comprehensive meaning of religions we cannot impart the blame of communal-ism on
to them. It is a few people with vested interests, by propagandizing parochial
understanding of religion, are cultivating communal extremism.
This problem is more common in countries like south Asia as this region is full of
religious diversity and possesses immature law and order situation. To go with
examples, our nation has been facing communal riots since 1992, each time just before
elections. in 1992- babri was demolished. in 2002 gujarath riots, in 2014 mujaffarnagar
riots. like wise Burma- rohingya muslims and buddhists were facing similar kind of
problems. Majority of nations here are facing similar problems just before elections just
to bet on their success.
Lack of right understanding among people, high levels of illiteracy and high stress on
employment opportunities are fueling factors behind such communal based politics.
What ever be the reason this is not at all good for any of us. We should note the fact that
partition of undivided India resulted due to such communal based politics only, after a
massive bloodshed. Hence we should discourage such elements both by individual and
collective actions
Q) Indian secularism is considered as pseudo-secularism by certain

sections of the society.Do you agree with this view? Critically analyse.
(200 Words)
http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/let-nation-debate-the-preamble-ravi-
shankar/article6831215.ece?homepage=true
http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/debates-show-why-preambles-original-text-
left-out-the-two-words/article6831694.ece?homepage=true&ref=relatedNews
http://www.newindianexpress.com/columns/Pseudo-secularism-
Exposed/2014/05/31/article2254474.ece
Ans: Indian Constitution included word Socialist and Secularism after 42nd
Constitutional Amendment 1976, because it was felt that India as a nation of various
religions and shown positive religious tolerance. It was also to make it clear in future
that no particular religion can claim more share in policy implementation or declare
herself as holier, representative than other.
In last 4 decades, India has set example in front of world by it‘s positive secularism
where state has no religion and it promotes every religion existence and prosperity
equally as envisioned by our forefathers.
But certain section of society thinks otherwise and considers Indian secularism as
pseudo-secularism because:
(a.) Secularism real meaning is zero favour to anyone, while in India all religions are
promoted equally by government.
(b.) Minority religions are given extra advantages like Haj subsidy, subsidy for
missionary buying lands and setting up schools, minority can set special guidelines for
their schools and university and can deny anyone‘s admission there based on religion.
This is against the spirit of Secularism.
(c.) With continuous polarisation of religion as political agendas also degraded the value
and essence of secularism.
Hence, while constitution claims India as secular nation but as a society we have to cross
the barrier of communalised feeling both at heart and action.
Q) Do you agree with the view that in the emergence of modern nation
state system, the realities had come first before principles and ideals?
(200 Words)
Ans: ―When a nation abolishes aristocracy, centralization follows as a matter of course‖
– Tocqueville
Rise of India as an Independent nation was a laudable dream of masses from 1850s, but
it became reality only in 1947. Several political realities change with the rise of freedom
movements.
Example. Establishment of INC, Muslim League, Communist Parties, Farmer and
Labour Union in India.
British introduce some controversial reforms like Communal and Minority

representation in Legislative council of Viceroy articulating that India was never a one
nation as it is now.
British empire wished to provide federal structure to Independent India because they
believe aspiration of all communities will be secured in decentralization of power. But
Two-nation theory, Day of Direct Action, and Jinnah‘s Communal stand brought
constituent assembly to bring powerful union instead of powerful Federal nation.
So, when principally, independence was discuss before formation of constituent

assembly of India, decentrailization was given more importance then other matters. But
reality during last decade of freedom movement changed aspirations of makers of
constitution.
When, British left India, it was believed aristocracy also left with them, but continuous
rise of ethnic and communal issues since independence justified modern India as
"Union of States" instead of Federation.
Thus, Indian nation state evolved on principles, but in reality it is yet to apply all the
principles into socio-economic realism to bring ideals which glorified ―Free India‘s
vision‖
Topic: Population and associated issues;

Q) India is moving towards third stage of demographic transition i.e.
replacement-level fertility. Discuss. What measures can be adopted by
government to stabilize the population at a faster pace? What are the
reasons behind difference in fertility rates across the states? (200
Words)
Ans: Replacement level of Fertility is total fertility rate at which women would be
replacing herself and her partner in long term and thereby who nation‘s women would
be replacing nation‘s population. Thereby leading to theoretically zero population
growth. No. of children attaining 15 years of age only considered as fertility of women.
Hence in most developed nation 2.1 is the Replacement level of fertility for adjusting
child mortality rate.
Measures that can be adopted by government to stabilise population at faster pace:
(1.) Lower child mortality rate as fast as possible because in rural areas still people opt
for larger family size as they belive some children will die before reaching teenage.
(2.) Better health care for mothers to decrease maternal mortality. Setting up better
obstetric facilities.
(3.) Mechanising agriculture, increasing productivity of agriculture and shifting more

people out of agriculture. Because in rural areas, poor family opt for larger family so as
to get helping hand in agriculture. It also leads to disguised unemployment.
(4.) Spreading awareness about small family through Aagan badi, ASHA, ASHOK,
panchayat. Encouraging people to go for tubectomy and vasectomy at right age. Making
such surgery clean and efficient (in backdrop of CG mishap during sterlisation
operation.)
Reasons for difference in Fertility rate across states:
(1.) Difference in culture, religion and economic engagement across state. Kerala has
lesser farmers so smaller family.
(2.) Education difference. Education expansion leads to choice for smaller family.
(3.) Better medical facility leads to smaller family and lesser maternal/infant mortality.
(4.) Government intention to address population.
Population is vicious cycle which depends on awareness and medical facility. Better
medical care leads to lesser mortality means family reaches desired size in lesser time
which means better education for children and better money management for family
and again it comes to smaller family. Absence of anyone leads to population growth at
faster pace.
Topic: Poverty and associated issues;

Q) “Poverty is clearly not a reason for falling sex ratio.” Elucidate.
(200 Words)
Ans: Had poverty been the reason for the falling sex ratio, then it wouldn't have been
the lowest in the richest states. Punjab and Haryana can boast of one of the higest per
capita income in the country and yet the sex ratio is continually dropping there.
Instead, what seems to be the major factor in the determining sex ratio is the education
level of the population. More importantly, the level of education that is being given to
girl is an indicative of the acceptacne of the girl child by the society. Since it is mostly a
social construct, the gender sensitisation is linked more to the cultural aspects rather
than economic.
Insipite of education and economic well being, the capital Chandigarh too has a horrific
record in killing of girl child. Money and education have thus become a tool to attain
their parochial aims. It seems that untill the mentality of the people is changed,
education would continue to perpetuate the same stereotypes as the ones popular with
the poorer citizens of the nation.
The root of the problem perhaps lies in the economic and political inequity
systematically perpetuated by our society. Women have to have the right ot work as
equal of their male co workers and paid equally too. Rural settings doesn't discriminate
between the labroures but the modern industry prefers the male worker, seen as more
responsible towards the company than the family. Strict laws need to be in place to
ensure that maternity leaves, childcare etc. doesn‘t come in way of a woman's career.
Topic: Population and associated issues;

Q) While the overall sex ratio has improved to 940 as compared to
933 in 2001, the child (0-6 years) sex ratio has shown an unabated
decline since 1961. How do you explain this contradiction? (200
Words)
Ans: As per the provisional data of Census 2011, while the overall sex ratio had gone up
by seven points to touch 940, against 933 in Census 2001, the child sex ratio plummeted
to 914 from 927.
The increasing trend has been seen in Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Gujarat,
Tamil Nadu, Mizoram and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, while in all the remaining
27 States and Union Territories, the ratio has shown a decline.
This anomaly can be broadly attributed to biological and social reasons.
The decline in child sex ratio is due to the preference for male child in our patriarchial
society. Pre natal diagnostic techniques lead to female foeticide, due to which the child
sex ratio can be said to be declining. Also, at such an age, children are mostly dependent
on
their parents for nutrition, where males are again the preference, as they are more likely
to be employed with the family as a child labourer. As the industrialisation of India
picked up in the early 1960s, the demand for labour increased, supplementing the
already high preference for male children.
This coupled with the dawn of development in medical facilities in India since early
1960s, the child sex ratio has declined continually.
But as age increases, females are at an advantage to males in most of the ailments, due
to following reasons:
1. Women produce more antibodies and at a quicker rate than men, and have more
white
blood cells.
2. Women have a lower blood pressure than men, and, at least prior to the menopause,
are
less likely to suffer from potentially deadly cardiovascular diseases.
3. Females usually have a higher life expectancy then men, due to better psychological/
cognitive efficiency which stimulates more brain cells.
So, if the effect of all social evils, leading to deaths of females at an early age, is
eliminated at the later stage of life, females survive more then men, which explains the
better sex ratio at the post dependency periods of children.
Topic: Social empowerment;

Q) When we take land away from tribals, we take their life spirit.
Discuss this statement in the light of forceful land acquisition in tribal
areas since independence. Highlight the special provisions made for
STs in the recent land acquisition act to protect their interests. (200
Words)
Ans: Land acquisition in tribal areas in the name of development is alleged to have
taken away the very life spirit of tribals.
Traditionally tribals were isolated from mainstream society ,residing mostly
forests.Their main source of livelihood has been forest products.Post independence
need for development of heavy industries required exploitation of mines and minerals
,forest and forest products ,setting up large hydroelectric projects which mostly fall in
tribal area.In the name of national development their land and rights over forest were
taken in British times continued in Post Independence India also.They were driven off
their traditional land.Private rights over forest land has been recognized which
destroyed thier community based social system .They have been denied their share in
minerals and forest products and profits have been mostly taken big corporations.
Also ,many projects have been granted without much of EIA and SIA which has put
tribals at margin.
In the process of interaction with mainstream society they have been marginalized and
living under utter poverty and malnutrition.Corruption and government apathy have
further aggravated the situation.
Also tribal areas have seen continued in-migration of outsiders ,due to which the whole
demography of some areas like Tripura has changed within a decade.
Due their marginalization many tribals have resorted to violence and joined Naxalite
groups.Last decade has seen formation of tribal specific states of Chattisgarh and
Jharkhand.
Having realized their problems government has taken following steps to protect their
interests:
1. Forest Rights Act, 2006:

It recognises customary rights of tribals over forest land permits them to use forest
products.It also extends community based decision making system in the form of Gram
Sabha which will collectively take decision regarding Land Acquisition.
2. PESA, 1995:
It extends Panchayati Raj system in tribal areas and grants them rights to manage their
own affairs without much government intervention.
3. Land Acquisition Act 2013 provides enough safeguards.
4. Proper Social Impact Assessment, Environmental Impact Assessment is necessary
before any developmental activity in tribal areas. Before any major infrastructure
project in tribal land proper compensation and rehabilitation is to be provided to the
affected ones.
5. Tribal welfare programs have been included in CSR activities.
6. Dedicated Tribal Welfare ministries have been made at Center and in various states to
deal with their problems.
7. MNREGA has been effectively implemented in tribal areas with increased number
working days.
8. Programs like marketing of tribal tradition products have been taken in association e-
retail companies like Flipkart.
Topic: World wars, Redrawl of national boundaries;

Q) „Extreme nationalism of fascist variety has various faces in various
countries,but it has everywhere in common characteristics.‟ Critically
analyse. (200 Words)
http://www.frontline.in/cover-story/soldiers-of-the-swastika/article6756605.ece
Ans: The origin of Fascism in Rome has a changed the political discourse of the world in
20th century. With its extreme nationalism, Mussolini tried to create an army of people
where everything is viewed from the prism of nationalism and every act done is related
to it. Over a period of time this spread to other countries and is still relevant in today's
world after completion of 3 quarters of a century from its onset.
Hitler's acts of nurturing Nazis, killing jews, attacking communism etc show the
extremeness of nationalism which other nations of the day could not match. Though
Italy's version is in other aspects like community to do agriculture, bringing rapid
national development, Germany's version is of asserting its supremacy in racial and
military aspects.
After the World War 2, the Bolsheviks have shown another form of nationalism with
different ideological aspects which has workers as its national identity. From defeating
Germany to building satellite states around them, the extreme form of nationalism is
evident fuelled by the assertion of supremacy of the west, resulted in Cold War.
The Great Leap of Mao in China also a form of nationalism where the communes wanted
to elevate the country's status and put it along with other powers and showed the
aggressiveness in their work. This was an attempt using labour and in the process led to
coercion and disastrous consequences.
The growth of RSS in post independent India is also an evidence of nationalism through
religious aspirations.
Everywhere nationalism existed in extreme forms but its moderation to release the
energies in a channelled way like a nuclear reactor will do greater benefit than sudden
explosive activities like a nuclear bomb for the good of nations and the world at large.
Topic: Post-independence consolidation and

reorganization within the country;
Q) “The popular rise of the slogan for azaadi in Kashmir in the late
1990s was on the account of religious fundamentalism which was
left unchallenged and an Indian state which viewed a community
merely as pawns in their geostrategic game.” Critically comment.
(200 Words)
http://www.epw.in/editorials/quarter-century-exile.html
Ans:
Fact of the matter:
Kashmir which remained highly disputed region of south Asia was always volatile since
early 1930s. Earlier muslim majority was fighting for Hindu minority rule (Maharaja
Hari Singh). Later a muslim elite emerged in the form of Shiekh Mohammed Abdullah,
who in early 1950s along with Nehru eluded Kashmiri muslims of almost Kashmir
independence within Indian framework. After defeating Pakistan in 1947 and UN
mediated a ceasefire in 1948 Nehru retreated from his earlier promise of plebiscite in
Kashmir so the deal b/w Shiekh and Nehru failed and Nehru even has to jail his close
frnd sheikh.
Since then fundamentalism against Indian state aroused in valley which caught fire in
late 1980s with the help of Pakistan.
The reasons of 1990s Uprising
1) Pak support and massive infiltration.
2) Fundamentalism was already growing since 1960s in Kashmiri muslims; parties like
Hurriyat, JKLF, Peoples liberation front.
3) Arm and fighters from Afghanistan
4) US and PAK. supported uprising, even then US ambassador openly supported

Kashmir independence.
5) Indian state: Indian state was also responsible, which has failed to meet aspirations of
people. When we say aspirations it shd not be confused with developmental aspiration (
as Kashmir in 1980s was far more developed than NE or even central states like MP,UP
as far as education, life style, income etc are concerned) rather Kashmiri people wanted
more autonomy (more effective implementation of art. 370). Even what i think most of
the Urban educated people of Kashmir (precisely 10 districts of valley) wanted
independence.
6) Influence and motivation from USSR disintegration.
Solution to Kashmir problem: Being a nationalist, i stick to unilateral solution

(means Pak shouldn't be involved) of Kashmir. As Kashmir being integral part of India,
there is no point in talking about its independence.
Suggestion:
1) First deal more effectively with anti national elements. Severe Reprisal policy should
be followed.
2) Along with this go for more development.
3) Also push for POK, a part of Kashmir we have forget (even we tried to give it to
Pakistan in Shimla(1972)-LOC).
Topic: Distribution of key natural resources across the world

(including South Asia and the Indian subcontinent);
Q) Bring out the present day position of exploitation and processing
of nuclear minerals in India. (200 Words)
http://www.ncert.nic.in/NCERTS/textbook/textbook.htm?legy2=7-12
Ans- Major nuclear minerals required for India for its civil energy as well as for defence
purposes are Uranium and Thorium. India is having less uranium reserves i.e.1-2% of
global uranium reserves and more thorium reserves i.e.total 25% of global reserves.
Presently in India only the public sector companies are allowed to mine the nuclear
material reserves - they are Uranium Corporation of India Limited (UCIL) for Uranium
and India Rare earths Limited (IREL) for Thorium.
in case of uranium as of now India has got around 2.00lac tonnes of identified uranium
reserves mainly concentrated in Thummapalle ,AP (Around 95.00lac tonne) ,Jharkand
,Meghalaya and Rajasthan and at other places in small quantities. In respect of Thorium
, mainly available in the monozite sands of East west coast of India.Presently Nuclear
Fuel complex (NFC), Hyderabad is developing and processing the uranium and thorium
ore to make the usable uranium oxides. The factors that are effecting the the
exploitation of nuclear material in India are
1.Land acquisition and rehabiliatation problems in new uranium and thorium found
places for establishing the mines
2. Proximity to the drinking water resources
3. In case of coastal belts the issue of reserve forest and environmental issues
4.Public consensus on safety of mining
5.Availability of viable technology economically and technically.
Recently NFC has discovered a cost effective technology for making weapon grade
uranium oxides from uranium reserves of AP. Hence In view of the Indian government
thrust on nuclear energy we can expect for increase in the productivity of uranium
through ample investment by the government financially and in other required areas
Topic: factors responsible for the location of primary,

secondary, and tertiary sector industries in various parts of the
world (including India);
Q) Explain the factors promoting the rapid growth and development
of auto-mobile industry in India, giving suitable examples. (200
Words)
Ans- India has witnessed a rapid growth in the auto mobile sector. The reason behind
the growth is as follows:
1. Fuel economy : high rates of fuel have forced competition among the companies to
focus on delivering performance-oriented products.
2. Demography : India is a huge market for automobile industries. It has a great demand
for 2 wheeler and cheap 2 wheeler vehicles. Increased affordability has attracted many
towards buying vehicles.
3. FDI : govt has allowed 100% FDI in automobile industries. kawasaki, honda, hundai,
etc have set up their centers in India.
4. Banking infrastructure : financial inclusion, availability of car loans has helped.
5. Improved infrastructure : development of roads, highways (golden quadrilateral)

promoted heavy vehicle industry.
6. Increase in demand from defense and agriculture industry of trucks, tractors etc.
7. Cheap skilled workers have reduced the production cost and also attracted FDI.
8. The Government technology modernization fund is concentrating on establishing

India as an auto-manufacturing hub.
There is also increasing domestic demand:

1) Concerns for privacy and safety
2) Pathetic public transport. Poor last mile connectivity
3) Culture of materialism due to rise in Purchasing power
India has to keep up the progress as there will be competition from the rest of the world
soon by the expansion of technology. self governing vehicles, more diesel powered cars,
high performance hybrid cars will hit market soon

world (including India);
Q) Critically examine the locational pattern and trend of production
of forest based industries in India. (200 Words)
Ans- Forest based industries deals with products that are obtained from forest like
timber industries, paper industries, gum, tendu/tobacco/bidi making, match, sports
good, plywood etc.
Location pattern and Trend of productions for Forest goods are:
Paper:
Nearness to Consumption centre, Good transport, Availability of raw material which is

pulp obtained from soft wood like bamboo, sabai grass, bagasse, straw, waste paper and
salal wood. Power supply.
Still Indian paper industries uses traditional way of production because lack of large
scale plants. Paper plants are scattered in numbers and are medium scaled hence, lack
of innovation and technology.
Gum:
Gum industries collect raw material directly from forest while their processing plants
situated near to forest. Mostly tyre companies are also situated near to forest. Sulphur
mining for vulcanisation process is also considered.
Tendu leaves/Tobacco/Bidi Industries;
Mostly these is done by tribals which consists of collecting leaves and passing it to
tobaco industries. Hence proximity to forest is important.
Match Industries:
soft wood, paper requirement are met by closeness to forest as well as market. But
pollutions due to phosphorus and sulfur use is prevalent and in recent news.
Sports Goods Industries:
Such industries are mostly situated in Northern India and dependent on Himachal
Pradesh, Shimla region for their specific wood requirement from forest. Also cheap
labour requirement is met at mountainous region.
Plywood industries:
Located near to timber industries, because their raw material is low quality woods or
discarded wood from bigger timber industries. Also cheap labor is required.
Topic: poverty and developmental issues

Q) What do you understand by regional planning? Critically evaluate
the success of five year plans in addressing regional inequality in
India. (200 Words)
Ans- With vast diversity and the varied needs of people who are distinguished by
language, place, kind of living, there is a need to meet the requirements particular to any
specific area. Planning to meet the needs of a specific region is called Regional planning
often state specific planning in India.
Nehruvian era of socialism introduced 5 year planning after India became Republic.
Many areas were focused as part of five year plans like Industry in early years to
Inclusive growth in 11th and 12th plans. Inequality is a key aspect that also got
considerable significance. Back ward regions like Bihar, Orissa have got special
packages/plans (12th FYP) and funds to address the developmental requirements.
Problem of Naxalism was also addressed by sanctioning specific packages to the more
vulnerable regions of some of the states of Red Corridor. Tribals and lower strata were
made to benefit by mainstream development by schemes like Housing like JRY and IAY,
education like SSA, Health, employment through MGNREGA etc. Industry is
encouraged in areas like Bangalore-Hyderabad connecting region, Ludhiana-Jalandhar
region which were underdeveloped.
Growth of SEZs have created employment and rise of middle class especially in IT sector
and are today part of the India growth story reducing the gap between areas of Below
Poverty and Above Poverty lines.
Though five year plans have contributed for maintaining balance of regional growth,
certain aspects negligible change is seen. Inclusion of North Eastern states and
continuation of insurgency operations by people like Bodos, Nagas etc continuing.
Naxalism is still present and regional inequality is the primary reason and notion of
government being biased and not working for them still remain in their minds. MDGs
like Maternal Mortality, Sanitation etc still a distant dream. Five year plans despite
working for moderate growth, still lot needs to be done for projecting India to the top
row in the world
Topic: poverty and developmental issues

Q) How did the concept of sustainable development evolve? How is it
different from economic development? If you are posted as District
Collector, what measures will you take to ensure sustainable
development in your district? Suggest out of the box measures. (200
Words)
Ans- Growing challenges of pollution, water scarcity, global warming, population
explosion, ozone depletion, icebergs melting, islands submerging, reduction in food
production, increase in diseases etc have resulted in a new concept called Sustainable
development. Most of them are man-made and the need for survival of human race is
the strong force that is driving the world to embrace sustainable development which
according to United Nations "Meeting needs of present without undermining the needs
of the future generations".
Economic development is improving the economy for benefit of humans by various

means like increasing food production, infrastructure, industrial output, usage of
natural resources etc. But what are the means to raise the economy plays major role.
Economic growth can be achieved by using fossil fuels and also by using Non-
conventional resources for energy needs. But using the latter is more beneficial for
sustenance of humans without causing much damage to environment and is termed as
sustainable development.
If I am posted as District Collector, I will take following measures for sustainable

development.
1. Will Encourage Organic Farming, agro-forestry, and production of Bio-fuels in

villages like Gobar gas, ethanol from molasses and will work on ways and means of their
usage for vehicles apart from house cooking etc.
2. Will work on collaborating with R&D institutions technologies like laying roads with
degradable plastic instead of Coal tar etc.
3. Will work on aspects like recycling used water in Villages through an well integrated
drainage system and are fed to agricultural farms or local ponds.
4. Will work with NGOs and Society in eradicating the practices like burning the debris
of post harvest of crops for reducing pollution and particulate matter.
5. Will encourage use of Bycycles even in towns and cities among citizens for improving
health and reducing pollution, congestion etc problems.
It is with active civil society cooperation sustainable development is possible and can be
a great way for sustaining human race.
Topic: Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of Art

Forms, Literature and Architecture from ancient to modern
times.
Q) “…India as a repository of countless performing arts, local health
practices, indigenous knowledge systems and rich language traditions
spanning generations could ill-afford to destroy or lose it.” Discuss
with suitable examples. (200 Words)
The Hindu
Ans- India is known for its diversity. The 64 Arts, practices of AYUSH, knowledge of
tribals, coastal inhabitants and rich languages with 22 scheduled and around more than
1600 in general, all exemplifies the kind of diversity. All of these are a result of
thousands of years, intermingling of cultures, traditions, customs and each generation
handing over their beliefs and traditions to the next. The continuity in civilisation is a
rich heritage and India cannot afford to lose its very own identity.
1. Many languages are getting extinct with death of speaking communities. Majority of
scheduled languages specified in 8th scheduled are spoken by people today but the other
languages are on verge of extinction.
2. Medical practices of Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Yoga and Naturopathy

are also not being practices in India to the extent Allopathy is. There is a notion of
inferiority among people in using such practices in some sections relative to western
medical practices.
3. It is world countries who are more interested and practicing aspects like Yoga than
the Indians.
4. Indigenous knowledge systems like tribal knowledge on medicines, coastal

inhabitants on weather patterns etc is not being utilized.
When every country is proud of its heritage, Many of theIndians are little lethargic in
promoting their very own practices which are part of its composite culture. Steps like
including AYUSH in a ministry for its promotion, International Yoga Day are a welcome
step. Further institutions for language research and printing of books for education in
regional languages will do greater benefit for promoting languages. Bringing rationality
to the practices in promoting within country. Indigenous knowledge can be documented
and promoted. It is commitment on part of government and responsibility on part of

citizens that will be the driving factor for Indian rich heritage and in becoming the
vanguard for cultural diversity of the world.
Topic: History of the world

Q) Discuss why the name – Anne Frank – is pivotal in the history of
the modern world. (150 Words)
The Hindu
Ans- With the rise of radical nationalism like nazism and facism,the genocide
committed by the nazis against the jews are broadly termed as Holocaust. This defines a
period in history which extreme nationalism lead to the killing of millions of jews and
raises a question mark of the human rights and racial discrimination of extreme variety.
Anne frank, a young girl was a victim of this holocaust, and her diary spanns the period
of the time she was in hiding and the atrocities faced by her and her family. Her story
educates us about the historical event and also reminds us to accept our differences and
embrace diversity.
The diary is not just an historical document but a testimony of a young girl who refused
to give up,resisted. Throught out those 2 years anne held on to her culture,her ideals,her
hopes and her dreams in the face of adversity.
The story of anne frank‘s life reminds us on the need to reflect on the dangers of
discrimination,racism and antisemitism and the importance of freedom, equal rights
and democrcy.
The essence of Anne Frank‘s message has become a universal symbol of tolerance,
strength, and hope in the face of adversity — a symbol transcending all cultures and ages
and conveying the idea that discrimination and intolerance are wrong and dangerous.
It holds importance even today as fascist tendencies have not ceased to exit and the
world needs to take a note of this so that historical blunders like those of holocaust are
never repeated
Topic: changes in critical geographical features (including

waterbodies and ice-caps) and in flora and fauna and the effects
of such changes.
Q) Write a critical note on the effect of climate change on world‟s
oceans. (150 Words)
The Hindu
Ans- Critically there are four effects of climate change on world oceans:
1. Melting of Glaciers and Ice Sheets: The cycle: (a) Melting of Sea ice to (b) Lowered
Albedo to (c) Increase in absorption of sunlight to (d) Melting of ICE. This affects food
chain of marine animals and production of phytoplankton (primary food of fish)
-RESULT: loss of species, habitat, and life in oceans
2. Sea Level Rise: sea level rose about 15-20 centimeters (roughly 1.5 to 2.0 mm/year).
contributor to sea level rise is the melting of glaciers and ice caps.
-RESULT:
1. Very large numbers of wetland and swamp species are likely at serious risk.
2. the threat of extinction for polar bears, seals, and some breeds of penguins
3. Over 600 million people live in coastal areas that are less than 10 meters above sea
level, they are at-risk areas.
3. Ocean Acidification: An exponential increase in the net amount of CO2 being

dissolved in the ocean.
-RESULT: 60% drop in available calcium carbonate, a substance used by many marine
organisms (including coral, shellfish, crustaceans, and mollusks) to build their, so
productivity and even the survival of thousands of marine species at risk.
4. Thermohaline Circulation: Driven by density gradients in ocean waters, the

thermohaline (or deep ocean overturning) circulation is made up of the global flow of
ocean currents.
-RESULT:
1.Ocean temperatures and circulation patterns may get change.
2. Circulation plays a key role in ocean temperature patterns around the globe, weather
patterns are also likely to be disrupted.
Topic: Urbanisation – their problems and their remedies.

Q) Why slums are considered as „problems‟ in urban regions?
Examine why slums have developed in many Indian cities and also
critically comment if they should be treated as important
stakeholders in urban economy or should be eliminated to beautify
cities. (200 Words)
NCERT
Ans- Slums are considered as problem in urban regions for multiple reasons:
1) Poverty: This section is extremely poor and doesn't have even basic amenities
like toilet facilities, as a result they use public places for their daily
living.
2) Crime and Diseases: They are generally breeding ground for crime, delinquency and
diseases
3) Low human development index and illegal migrants: These areas have abysmally low
human development levels as well as occupied by many illegal immigrants, which
is often threat to safety and security of urban population.
The slums have developed in many Indian cities due to following reasons:
1) Unplanned Industrial development: The Urban areas are not planned in India,
most of the industry have flourished in limited areas only. As a result, to
many people have started living around limited habitable place.
2) Migration: Due to very few urban places, there is a heavy migration happening
in limited industrial places.
3) Bad transport and Infrastructure: Due to slow and bad transport facilities, the
clustered population can't be spread in wider and open spaces
4) Government policy and politics: Most of the Governments have turned a blind eye
towards slum due to political gains, vote bank and unwillingness to put any
effort rehabilitate the slum population.
The slum population is very important for urban economy for the following reasons
1) Economic center: they are the hub of many small and micro urban industrial
activities, eg. Dharavi leather market
2) Labour force: These areas provide labour force for many manufacturing and other
urban industries
However, there is a need to uplift this marginalized and vulnerable section of the
society through proper education, rehabilitation, providing amenities, health
facilities and spreading awareness like birth control. NGOs like Teach for
India, Pratham and institute like TISS can be the back bone for such changes.
Topic: changes in critical geographical features

Q) What do you understand by land degradation? Suggest measures
for reduction of land degradation. (150 Words)
NCERT
Ans- Land degradation is a process of change in characters of land where in the
productivity, richness and composition of land is destroyed especially beyond human
use. primary reasons for land degradation are excessive use of fertilizers and pesticides
by farmers, dumping of solid and chemical waste in urban areas and Soil erosion.
Measures for reduction of Land degradation:
1. Reduction in use of fertilizers and pesticides and encourage organic farming.
2. Proper disposal of solid waste like domestic waste in cities and towns. Methods like
disposal through incinerators can be used and ensuring no release of toxic gases.
3. Soil erosion must be checked through measures like Watershed management,

afforestation, agro-forestry, contour-bunding etc practices.
4. Preventing and taking mitigating measures for disasters like Bhopal gas tragedy.
Large amounts of chemical releases effect land adversely .
5. Regulation of industries and their waste disposal. Strict avoidance of disposal into
nearby lands which will have harmful effects on local population, flora and fauna.
6. Conversion of agricultural lands to activities like growing shrimps, prawns etc must
be reduced and regulated as it causes irreversible damage due to salinization of the land
in the process.
Land must be maintained for easy rejuvenation and should be in harmony with nature
otherwise the effects of it on humans are irreversible.
Topic: Salient features of Indian Society; poverty and

developmental issues; Effects of globalization on Indian society
Q) According to recent Global Slavery Index, vulnerability of the
average Indian citizen to modern slavery is rated at 56.7 per cent.
Why do you think such high rate of vulnerability exists in India? Also
examine the role of NHRC in addressing the issue of modern slavery.
(200 Words)
Frontline
Ans- Slavery or Modern day bonded labour(begar) is a service rendered to master who
pay very less or no money for service. Also, it is highly difficult for labour to leave master
at his will. This leads to servitude and forced labour from generation after generation. It
is against Fundamental Right (Article 21, Right to dignified life.). Though it is abolished
under ―Bonded Labour Abolition Act 1976‖, India has highest number of slaves in
number(1.42 Crore), following are reasons for high rate slavery in India:
(1.) Economic and Education inequality along the caste line. Tribals/Harijan/Dalit and
Lower caste people are more vulnerable to fall for it under the guise of unpaid debt or
unaware legal rights.
(2.) Extreme poverty in some areas like Kalahandi in Orissa where many parents sell
their children to brick kiln owner, bangles factory owners and even to human traffickers.
(3.) Many low paid jobs are not mechanised in India which is minor but one reason for
making slavery lucrative in India.
(4.) Debt bondage is most prevalent in India because of unavailability of alternate

source of borrrowing money.
Many institutions like National Institute of Rural Development(NIRD), National

Human Rights Commission(NHRD) and Centre for Education and Research(CEC) have
bonded labour elimination in their agendas. NHRC role is prominent. Programmes by
NHRC:
(1.) Grain bank in rural pockets where SC/STs are more prone to fall for bonded labour
during lean production season like summer and rainy when harvest is not there or
drought year. In grain bank a family can loan grains and repay it in coming 4 years.
(2.) Citizen‘s call centre, where anyone can register complain of an incident of slavery
anywhere in India. NHRC officials will reach for the labours who are bonded.
(3.) NHRC also carry surprise inspection in bangles factory, artisan, fire crackers
factories, brick kiln and other prone areas.
Topic: Salient features of Indian Society; urbanization, their

problems and their remedies.
Q) In the light of recent political trends, critically examine the impact
of urban politics on urbanization and urban development in India‟s
major cities. (200 Words)
Business Standard
Ans- Urbanisation is at a rapid pace in today's India. Many reasons like economic
opportunities, better social standards, better knowledge etc are pushing the rural India
towards the Metros and other major cities. Urban politics too have significant
contribution in urbanisation process and the recent resurgence of AAP as the largest
party in Delhi is a true evidence of this.
Delhi can be a case study for impact of urban politics on urbanization. It is a

cosmopolitan society with varied classes, religious people living. Decline in Caste based
politics, awareness among the urban residents, increase in literacy rates, change in
demographics with more youth arriving at metros etc are in a way responsible for the
change in thinking of average urban resident and his decisions to wards elections and
leaders. This impacted the politics of urban areas and inturn establishing accountability
of politician towards common man. It further increased urbanisation and is slowly
turning out as a vicious cycle.
The usage of RTI, discussions in media and public forums, accessibility to information,
anti-corruption movements by common people etc have raised expectations of people
from politicians and the real need for development of cities is felt by all including
politicians. Despite central sponsored development like Metro trains, roads, airports etc,
there is a growing pressure from citizens on governments in major cities like Kolkata,
Hyderabad etc for better delivery of services, reduction in corruption, improvement in
day to day administration. With the rise of middle class and youth in India coupled with
Urbanisation, Indian cities are becoming the real engines for galvanising the growth
trend.
Topic: political philosophies like communism, capitalism,

socialism etc.- their forms and effect on the society
Q) “Capitalism expands material well-being by replacing existing
technologies, products and business methods with superior
substitutes. Though this initially disrupts established industries and
communities, it is the main engine of economic progress.” In the light
of this statement, discuss the costs of capitalism, and examine if these
costs are worth bearing in pursuit of economic progress through
capitalism. (200 Words)
The Hindu
Ans- Capitalism is characterized by an economic system where means of productions
are owned by private firms where goods and services are distributed according to price
mechanics rather than govt price controls and there is no intervention on the market by
the government.
Capitalist society believes that capitalism expands material well being and technologies.
The reason behind the "economic development" behind Capitalist economy are:
1. Efficiency : Because of incentives, market pressure, the firms always keep on
increasing their efficacy by cutting costs and avoid waste.
2. The market pressure makes firms work hard and be innovative. This increases GDP
and improves living standards.
But sometimes that comes with a cost
1. monopoly/monopsony : If monopoly is achieved by a firm in a capitalist economy it

will take advantage of its power to fix high prices, low wages to labors, etc.
2. ignorance of social benefits : profit maximizing capitalist firms ignore negative

externalities like pollution from production etc.
3. Booms and bust cycles : Capitalist economies are vulnerable to recessions and that
causes mass unemployment.
4. Inherited wealth : Wealth can be passed to future generations. This inherited wealth
causes wealth inequality and it is a curse to "equality of opportunities"
5.These inequalities cause social divisions.
6. increases the gap between rich and poor.
Capitalist economy helps economic development a lot. in fact, presently there is no

suitable alternative to that. But there should be proper government intervention and
people friendly economic policies in important fields like health care, transport,
education, defense, etc.
Topic: urbanization, their problems and their remedies

Q) Plastic, the major municipal solid waste, is posing big threat to
world‟s water bodies. Examine the magnitude of pollution caused by
plastic and remedies to address adverse effects caused by
its dumping. (200 Words)
The Hindu
Ans-Immense uses of plastic in day to day life and its other qualities of durability etc
though may appear appealing but plastic has become the most notorious problem for
waste management leading to multiple environmental and health hazards
a) MARINE POLLUTION
1. Photodegradation of plastics : makes plastics small enough to be ingested by aquatic
organisms thereby entering the food chain.
2. floating debris can absorb organic pollutants from seawater, including PCBs, DDT,
3. facilitate the spread of invasive species that attach to floating plastic in one region and
drift long distances to colonize other ecosystems.
4. On the macroscopic level, the physical size of the plastic kills fish, birds and turtles as
the animals' digestion can not break down the plastic
5. toxic chemicals such as bisphenol A and polystyrene can leach into waters from some
plastics.
B) LAND DEBRIS/LAND FILLING:

1. Harmful for terrestrial animals as ingestion leads to chocking and death
2. Landfills pollutes the water sources and may clog drains leading to flooding by rain
water
3. Acts as an adsorbent for various chemicals which further increase its toxicity
C) AIR POLLUTION :
Burning of plastics produces harmful toxins which pollute the air
Plastic once generated,in itself becomes a polluter since the avenues of proper disposal
of plastic are very few. Even though recycling appears to be an option,still it is not a
remedy for this frankinstein monster. Various methods include:
1. Using alternatives to plastics in packaging like tetra-paks,etc

2. Generating minimun plastic waste
3. Researching and clean up measures for Indian ocean and pacific ocean garbage
pathes like the 2012 5 gyres asia pacific expedition
4. A global responsibilty and initiative towards controlling the use and disposal of plastic
wastes
5. Small steps in daily life to replace plastic items like carry bags etc with other
alternatives
The final solution for the problem lies in saying ―NO‖ to plastic and keeping its
generation to the minimum. No amount of legislations and initiatives will be sufficient
unless each individual takes a leap forward.

world (including India)
Q) India‟s information technology (IT) services industry has
traditionally been dominated by exports – but, in the last couple of
years, it is the domestic scene which has begun to matter. Examine
the factors that have enabled this shift and also examine prospects of
such shift. (200 Words)
Business Standard
Ans- Factors that have enabled the shift towards domestic growth of IT industry are:
Demand driven factors:
1. Automation and digitisation of internal as well as external processes of Public Sector

Industries. Government's impetus towards e-governance.
2. Computerization in banking industry. Almost the entire process of banking are now
on the digital platform like CBS, mobile banking, net banking etc.
3. Digitisation and automation of business.
4. Rise in e-commerce, dissemination of information through internet/ websites.
Supply Driven:
1. Higher number of students are going for technical education like B. Tech in
IT/Electronics, MCA and related courses owing to growth in number of colleges/
institutes offering the same.
2. The Indian labour pool is quite skilled in this industry. Many start- ups have emerged
in recent times.
Policy Driven
Govt's IT industry friendly policy towards capacity building of software export like
establishment of STPs has helped in growth of expertise and skill in this sector.
Prospects of such shift:
1. Better delivery of govt and private services.

2. Increased transparency and efficiency.
3. Newer opportunities for business.
4. Emergence of Indian IT firms at global leve
Topic: Social empowerment, communalism, regionalism &

secularism
Q) ” Secularism is not a policy option for a government, but one of the
original principles that inform the Constitution.” In the light of
growing religious intolerance in India and the governments‟ response
to this, critically comment. (200 Words)
The Hindu
Ans- There is a difference between policy and Principle. Though Policy may change
depending upon ht interest of government However Principles do not change. In fact
broadly speaking Policies are made in line to the Principle. For instance Government
promoting Education to all, Housing to all or food act for that matter is based on
principles of equality in access.
Similarly it also does not matter whether Principle are written or not . Secularism even
when it was not stated in the Our Constitution was a part of our principles. The reason
to it is that Constitution envisages Social justice, Liberty, fraternity ideas of French
revolution.
~Recent attack on the Church is not a attack to religion but a attack to the Constitution
Principles . Government must take effective measures for Communal harmony , Provide
platform for engagement of Different religious leaders . It should also taker Stern action
post investigation of Perpetrators of religious Violence .
~Unfortunately Law and order machinery were not registering the complaint of
Vandalism in many of the cases . It is duty of a leader to come forward and assure
people for partial probe and shall warn such group spreading Communalism or religion
chauvinism.
Pseudo Secularism, Hate Speech and other Political interest, caste based Politics are the
things to be detached and should usher era of Mature politics based on development.
Topic: population and associated issues, poverty and

developmental issues, urbanization, their problems and their
remedies.
Q) Recently it was proposed to create Special Entertainment Zones
(SEZ) in Mumbai where designated night zones (open 24 x 7) will be
created and allow people to entertain themselves securely. Do you
find this proposal socially, culturally and economically good for cities
such as Mumbai, Kolkatta, Delhi and other metros? Can this idea be
extended to tier-2 cities? Critically comment. (200 Words)
The Hindu
Ans- Today‘s demographic is younger generation dominated. With time, ideologies of
society as a whole changes and this is visible by changing activism by Young generation
toward rights, security, freedom of speech, filtering adult content in internet, LGBT
biasness etc. These all are led by young generation. Today they are demanding for
Special Entertainment Zones(SEZ) in Mumbai, which needs to be analysed on various
perspective:
(1.) Socially viable: It is very good step, because often a section of society think that bar,
pubs, discos pollutes social environment. SEZ being localised geographically will solve
this. It will also solve problems of noise pollution, traffics, crime, catching drugs racket,
stopping rapes etc. because it will be easy to provide security to small area than
dispersed over whole cities. It is to be allowed for all people not only for young people.
(2.) Culturally: India has always welcomed mixing of new culture and changed with
time. But it also to be taken care that SEZ should not invite anti-national, pro-religion or
violent videos/games activities in guise of fun.
(3.) Economically: It is much beneficial for providing new business oppurtunity, it will
also bring creativity, world class theatres and facilities for which Indian‘s go abroad.
This idea can‘t be extended to tier-2 cities because of economic unviability, orthodox
society, lesser security, small in size and lack of target audience with deep pockets. But,
with time, they can be extended to smaller cities.

waterbodies and ice-caps) and in flora and fauna and the
effects of such changes.
Q) In 2014 and 2015, Brazil is experiencing one of the worst droughts
in its history. Examine its causes and its effect on Brazil‟s economy
and environment. (200 Words)
BBC
Down to Earth
Other
Ans- The issue of the worst drought in brazil is a complex one tied to local problems
and the government's own drive to develop the Amazon region, home to nearly 25
million people.
Causes include:
1. Amazon deforestation : ―sky rivers‖ are generated by the forest acting as a massive
pump, according to research that has shown the jungle's uniform humidity consistently
lowers atmospheric pressure in the Amazon basin---> allows it to draw moist air
currents from the Atlantic Ocean much farther inland than areas that don't have forests-
-->currents travel west across the continent until they hit the Andes mountains, where
they pivot and carry rains.
Weakening of ths mechanism has been the main cause of the drought
2. Govt failure : failure to upgrade and maintain the necessary infrastructure to stop
water being stolen or wasted in transit, with as much as 37% system leakages
3. Coastal population : There is also the exacerbation by population concentration
around the coasts
4. Water intensive agriculture: like sugarcane monoculture without much diversification
5. Water intensive industries and water hoarding by such industries
6. Polluted rivers and open sewers
7. Self re-enforcing cycle : drought--->reduced hydroelectricity---->increased use of
fossil fuel--->micro & macro climatic changes
These are having a multiplicity of repurcussions :

1. Agriculture has been hit especially the coffee plantation pushing up prices in
internatiobnal markets
2. Industries have been dually hit due to low water supply and electricity cuts. Many
have been shut down
3. Most affected are the poor receiving water only 2 days a week
4. Overall economy is going into a slowdown
As suggested by norbe report Brazil needs a five-point plan to prevent further

destruction to the Amazon;
• spreading rainforest education
• ending deforestation
• ending fire-clearing techniques
• encouraging rainforest regeneration
• world leaders to act to prevent potential crisis.
The trick is finding the balance, to be able to use the jungle to benefit the population
without destroying it in the process.

(including South Asia and the Indian subcontinent)
Q) In the light of recent developments in coal sector and its
importance to the Indian economy, examine why coal is called as
black gold in India. (200 Words)
Business Standard
Ans- Coal is more than a fossil fuel, it generates electricity in easiest and traditional
way. Thermal power plant constitute 59% of India‘s power production, Also many PSUs,
state‘s economy, employments in mines, easy setup of Thermal Power Plant makes Coal
a viable and important fuel.
Recently Supreme court has revoked license of many mining companies which secured
mining rights in last decades, stating it as illegal and unfair process of auctioning. It led
to great lossess to Indian economy, especially to rural population which were made to
loose their habitat for no rehabilitation and made them labourer in their mine land. But,
in recent time, with dream of Indian economy to grow fast, cheap and easy power is
utmost important. Government took radical measure to exploit it‘s domestic coal
reserves and not rely on imports. It will boost economy in both way by reducing imports
and generating economy, employment domestically.
Coal is correctly called Black Gold because:
(1.) Coal gives us power, employment, livelihood in mineral rich states which are
underdeveloped, revenue to Indian economy, CNG for cleaner fuel.
(2.) If Coal mining is done in efficient way, India can earn by exporting them, as India
has high quality coal like Anthracite while also rich in Lignite which is younger coal used
in power plant because of it‘s abundant presence.
(3.) Coal is used as raw material for Iron & Steel indusries, Coke making, naptha plant
and other metallurgical plants. Easy to transport with need of only rail and roadways
make it important for production boom of a nation.
Hence Coal is considered as Black gold. With recent developments like revoking of old
licenses to check corruption, e-auctioning of coal blocks will lead to cheaper electricty
which will again boost industrial production.
Critical points wrt coal sector
1) India has 295 billion tonnes coal reserves (3rd largest in world), with 60 billion tonne
proven reserves. Still we are mining just about 0.6 billion tonnes and has to import abt
200 million tonnes (2017).
Compare the situation with china; 3.6 billion tonnes annual coal production , 12 lakh
mega watt installed capacity.
How to improve the situation ::

a) Allow private mining -- what govt. is doing right now
b) Adopt Foreign technology- surface miners (opencast mines), Continuous miners,
man riding system, robotics (underground mines) etc.
c) strengthen Coal India:: We should ask the following question:

1) why coal India was nationalised in 1973-- reasons are poor safety records of pvt coal
mining, very low productivity of private players(compare 70 million tonnes in 1972 vs
500+ million tonnes today) . So certainly things have improved. Further coal India is
biggest PSU (even more valuable than ONGC), so they are paying heavy dividends to
govt. exchequer.
Topic: The Freedom Struggle – its various stages and important

contributors /contributions from different parts of the country.
Q) Critically analyse the nature of relationship Gandhiji had with
Britain and the British during the national movement. (200 Words)
The Hindu
Ans- Gandhiji‘s influence in contemporary world is not limited to India but is spread
across world. Especially in South Africa and Britain. Gandhi with his famous ideologies
of Satyagrah, Ahinsa and Love not only made British Govt to leave without war and
bloodshed but also helped to make future relation pleasant and cordial. It also made a
series of freedom of nation among colonies in Asia and African nations.
Gandhi‘s relationship with Britain and British were of strong criticism, evaluative on
Human Rights and economic ground but yet cooperative at times. Like during World
Wars and Boer wars Gandhiji supported Britishers because he doesn‘t want to get
independence on the misery of British Govt. This made Gandhi‘s image more refined
among British parliamentarians and helped the Conservative and Labour party realise
the gravity of freedom struggle in India. Also, Gandhi‘s decision of suggesting to make
Govt of India Act 1935 in sync of British Constitution led the Britishers in dilemma that,
Gandhi is not against them but against the their ill-treating of Indians and subjugating
Indians as second class nations.
During freedom struggle, Gandhi always demanded rights on humanitarian ground and
compared it with, what British citizen was granted. Hence, Britishers intellectual of that
time also knew the rightful demand of Gandhi and this feeling was spread among the
Labour Party members which granted India freedom during their tenure of power under
Clement Atlee.
In recent time also, from time to time, Gandhi‘s ideologies are remembered in UN
General Assembly and David Cameron‘s decision to install Gandhi‘s statue in
Parliament campus shows the gratitude toward enlightened soul and his messages.
Topic: Modern Indian history from about the middle of the

eighteenth century until the present- significant events,
personalities, issues
Q) Some columnists have argued that Sant Gadge Baba (1876-1956),
a saint from Maharashtra, should be made icon for clean India
mission. Examine why. (200 Words)
The Indian Express
Ans- Sant Gadge Baba was a social reformer from Maharashtra. As a wanderer he used
to visit villages and start cleaning with a broom, after which he would sang bhajans and
make people realise the importance of cleanliness.
The ambitious project 'Swach Bharat Abhiyaan' is aimed at improving the cleanliness at
country level. A lot of Gadge Baba's prinicples can be followed while implementing this
project who was a great admirer of Mahatma Gandhi. The Maharashtra government has
also started cleanliness programme named after him as the 'Sant Gadge Baba Gram
Swatchata Abhiyaan' which is aimed at cleanliness of villages. Inspite of being a fakir he
realised the importance of cleanliness very early and worked in this direction whole
heartedly. Baba used to tell people the importance of cleanliness through his simple
bhajans and at the same time speak on social problems. He also worked for the patients
of leprosy.
Hence it is necessary to include the Sant Gadge Baba as the icon for 'Swach Bharat
Abhiyaan' who dedicated his whole life to educate masses regarding the importance of
cleanliness. His work should be taken ahead along with Swach Bharat Abhiyaan.

Q) Write a note on the various factors that determine the location of
tertiary and quaternary industries. (200 Words)
Reference
BBC
Ans- Tertiary and Quaternary sectors play a major role in contribution to the economic
growth. These sectors include knowledge based activities like banking, law, information
technology education, finance, insurance, real estate etc. Their location depends on
below factors.
1. Availability of infrastructure like roads, railways and connectivity to the neighbouring

regions
2. Skilled and educated population in the region with better demographics.
3. Presence of large areas of land for construction of offices, colleges, recreational areas,
entertainment zones etc.
4. Subsidies or incentives from government of the region along with better facilities like
common parking, restaurants, food courts in case of Silicon Valley of California or
Electronic City of Bangalore etc
5. Areas which need lesser investments in terms of infrastructure, establishing or

promotion of the businesses like Tier 2 or Tier 1 cities.
6. Areas with better future prospects in terms of demographics (like Indian metros ),
expansion of services, better climate, growth.
Any industry depends majorly on many major and minor factors which decide the
success and productivity of it in short and long terms and locational factors play a major
role in it.
Topic: geographical features and their location- changes in

critical geographical features (including waterbodies and ice-
caps)
Q) Recently efforts have been made to bring the mythical Saraswati
river to the surface by the Haryana government and the Union
government. What are the possible reasons for the disappearance of
this river if it existed in ancient times and what is your opinion on
efforts made to revive the river. (200 Words)
The Hindu
Reference
Ans- North to the Himalayas, on tracing the aravali range, Indologists found the rise in
the ground level on the line of aravalis. This rise in ground level may have caused the
river Yamuna, a major tributary of river Saraswati, to move eastwards from Paontasahib
to join the river Ganga at Allahabad. River Sutlej, another major tributary of river
saraswati, joined saraswati near jakhal and then in hanumangarh and anupgarh in
Haryana. Later, it changed its course westwards near ropar to join the river Beas, (Vedic
Vipasa), thus delinking from its earlier channel into the sea.
Loss of two of its perennial tributaries along with the depletion of third major tributary
‗drishadvati‘ caused the river Sarasvati to dry up around 3000 BC which probably led to
the desertification of Rajasthan.
the reasons for the disappearance of Saraswati are attributed to-:
1-> Climate change from wet to dry spell, as evidenced by geomorphological and
stratigraphic records during the Quaternary period.
2->disruptions caused by the desiccation of Saraswati due to plate tectonics
3->Neo-tectonic changes in the Himalayan and Aravalli regions.
4->Uplift of Himalayas and Siwaliks

5->Uplift of Aravalli range resulting in northward shift of river Saraswati.
6->River piracy of Saraswati and subordinate rivers by Yamuna, Satluj, and Ganga.
7->Climatic changes from humid to desertic condition.
8->Changes in glaciation in Himalayas.
9->Choking of rivers by enormous sand debris.
10->Rise of Delhi-Haridwar ridge along the NE-SW lineaments.
Benefit To Rejuvenate Saraswati River-:
1->The sacred Saraswati flowing again will symbolise the heritage and historic
continuity of the people of India.
2->The rejuvenation of Saraswati will benefit millions of people in Himachal Pradesh,
Uttaranchal, Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan and Gujarat.
3-> The entire area of Saraswati basin should be developed as a national heritage site
promoting pilgrimage and serious tourism.
4-> The effort may benefit the people of the region to meet their religious needs and
perform rituals along the banks of flowing River Saraswati.
5-> At the same time, water can also be used for irrigation along the Saraswati River.
Suggestions for Reviving Saraswati River-:
Safeguarding Saraswati river at Adi Badri-:
There is a need to safeguard and revive the Saraswati river, which is historically and
archaeologically important drainage in Haryana. This could be done by diverting water
(through canals) from existing Rivers (Markanda, Somb or Yamuna) which are close to
the Saraswati river.
Topic: urbanization, their problems and their remedies.

Q) A recent survey has shown that urbanisation is not a panacea for
concerns about public safety. Rather, cities must invest in the “right
kind” of urbanisation, with the sort of infrastructure seen in the
largest cities. What in your opinion is „right kind‟ of urbanisation that
ensures public safety, especially safety for women? Discuss. (200
Words)
The Hindu
Ans- 'Urbanisation' in India is today unplanned and random. This leads to crowding
and development of slums. When it comes to 'public safety' especially 'safety of women',
present infrastructure in urban spaces is extremely inadequate to deal with it.
'Right kind' of urbanisation with respect to 'public safety' should include -

(a) Enough lighting on the roads.
(b) Continuous patrol by security forces i.e. police
(c) CCTV cameras spread throughout the cities.
(d) Proper registration and regulation on city transport operators especially taxi and bus
drivers, so that cases such as Delhi rape do not occur again.
(e) Regularisation of slum areas and improvement in their condition.
(f) Sensitization of youth towards women in general and towards good values in
particular and special care for their education.
(g) Community policing
(h) Use of technology to connect public with security forces, such as distress signal app
in smartphones.
(i) Strict laws and severe punishment against crime perpetrators, so as to serve as
effective deterrent against such crimes.
(j) Economic uplifting of weaker sections of society, and reducing the gap between rich
and poor i.e. inclusive development.
So, 'women safety' in specific and 'public safety' in urban plans can be ensured this way.
According to Indian Government, upto 2035 AD, more than 50% of Indian population
will live in urban areas. So, looking at 'safety' aspect is compulsory for 'safe', 'peaceful'
and 'secure' future in our country.
Topic: urbanization, their problems and their remedies.

Q) Critically examine the main causes and consequences of urban air
pollution in India. What efforts have been made and what needs to be
done to address this problem? Comment. (200 Words)
Frontline
EPW
Ans- Air pollution in India remains one of the key challenges. Air pollution is defined in
terms of gases and suspended and respirable particulate matter like carbon dioxide,
methane, sulphur and nitrogen oxides, PM 2.5 and PM 10. Thirteen of twenty most air-
polluted cities are in India. Delhi is most notorious amongst Indian cities.
Major reasons are:

1. Fuelwood and biomass burning. Most Indian homes in rural areas use wood or
biomass cakes in their chullhas. Besides, in winter and autumn seasons farmer burn
their residue stocks rather than mechanical tilling. This also causes the Big Brown Cloud
which delays the monsoon.
The solution here is to extend electricity to rural areas and provide them with cleaner
fuels like biogas ( whose slurry also makes excellent fertilizer).
2. Fuel adulteration. While traffic congestion is one of the major causes, it is aggravated
due to mixing of cheap ingredients to fuel whenever prices rise. This situation arises also
due to differential taxing regimes over hydrocarbons which is not in tune with air
pollution concerns. For example gasoline is taxed more than kerosene. Earlier many
vehicles did not use unleaded petrol, catalyctic converters and even today the vehicles
non-compliant to Bharat Stage 4 are plying roads.
The solution here is to make vehicular pollution standards strictly applicable, tax petrol
more to fetch money to build public means of transport and make all public vehicles run
on cleanrr fuels like CNG.
3. Greenhouse gases. India is third largest emitter of carbon dioxide and mostly it comes
from power sector and heating. Methane results from landfills and waste disposal.
Decreasing green cover is a huge concern.
The solution here is to replace coal-fired or gas-fired plants with better technologies.
Treatment of exhaust must be done before releasing from chimneys.
4. Other factors are Chloflourocarbons from cooling machines and miscellaneous factors
like Diwali festivals.
Consequences of air pollution are drastic effects in health and productivity. Respiratory
diseases like asthma, bronchitis and lung cancer, asbestosis, etc are common. Over
young people the effects are autism and stunted growth. Agricultural productivity
decrease as well.
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) monitors the air quality standards
periodically. But unfortunately it is below standards accepted.
The Air ( Prevention and Control of pollu5ion) Act was passed in 1981 but a lot needs to
be done specially in creating awareness and in ensuring green cover.
Topic: Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of

Architecture in ancient times.
Q) “Lomas Rishi cave in the Barabar Hills of Bihar and gateways of
some of Buddhist stupas are an excellent example showing true
imitations in stone of early wooden constructions.” Examine. (150
Words)
Reference – 1
Reference – 2
Ans- The Maryan period was initially dominated by timber as is corroborated by

accounts of Kautilya and Megasthenes. Ashoka was the first Mauryan to think in stone.
The stone masonry and carvings were imported to India during Ashoka from Persia
according to the similar signs are seen in Persepolis. So the gradual transition from
wood to stone happened.
Lomas rishi cave was excavated during Ashoka for Ajivak sect. The entrance of the cave
imitates hut entrance on stone. The back of the roof is made of bent timber and the
carved freize of elephants is an imitation of previous woodwork. Besides there is a stone
imitation of trellis work made of small piece of bamboo.
Besides, various Buddhist architecture also exist that support the argument in the
question. Stupas were built over ashes of Budhha. The stupas of Sanchi, Bharhut, Gaya,
Amravati and Naharjunkonda are famous for their entrances, torans, with upright
pillars and crossbars based on wooden style, on which relief was carved in various
Buddha symbols. The stupa of Sanchi was enlarged to enclose the original one and
railing was made of stone replacing wood. In chaityas also, like at Karle, rafters and
cross beams were carved in the rock though they serves no purpose. Chaityas also had
wooden roof or pillars supporting a vaultes roof, a ribbing inspired by wooden
architecture.
Topic: Indian culture will cover the salient aspects

of Architecture in medieval times.
Q) Compare and contrast the Indo-Islamic architecture with that of
temple architecture in India. (200 Words)
Reference
Ans- Indo-Islamic Architecture:
(1.) Started with 12th Century after Turks settled in India subcontinents.
(2.)Turks and Afghans Muslims having inherited a wealth of varied designs from
Sassanian and Byzantine empires and being naturally endowed with good taste for
buildings
(3.) Ornamental decoration, open space for prayer toward mecca(quibla), light and
open, lesser decoration in prayer hall, purdah hall system for females coming for prayer,
tower/minaret to call prayer(azaan),
(4.) Re-brought the fashion of true arch, trabeate(horizontal layers of bricks in arch,
lintel). Often contained qabr at centre if it is masouleum, arches, domes, minars and
minarets, the pendentive, squinch arch, half domed double portals, kiosks (chhatris)
and the use of concrete as a factor of construction
(5.) Ornamental decoration contain non-human figures, mainly floral decoration,

symmetry, rhythmic pattern, arabic writing in beautiful way.
(6.) The Muslims, like the Romans, were also responsible for making extensive use of
concrete and lime mortar as an important factor of construction and incidentally used
lime as plaster and a base for decoration which was incised into it and held enamel work
on tiles.
(7.) Elaborate gardens like charbagh, fountains were given importance.
Indian Temple Architecture:
(1.) Small prayer hall, many pillars, shikharas, small garbha-griha, mandapas.
(2.) Initially Arch were used but during Maurya and Magadha time, Arch usage
disappeared and after later part of 14th century remerged in southern India.
(3.) Ornamental decoration were largely containing animal, humans motifs and
postures.
(4.) Use of sandstone was important to carve delicate motifs

of Architecture in modern times.
Q) Do we have anything today as representative of Modern
Architecture which could be compared with our old buildings?
Critically examine. (200 Words)
Reference
Ans- The architecture practices of modern times were quite different from Indian old
buildings but till share some common features.
The modern form of architecture was developed by the distinct and far more developed
advanced british regime while the old buildings range from ancient India to the
medieval Indian architecture.
The common features which they share are-
1. use of stone. the immense use of stone was common in both cases. The modern
rashtrapati bhavan and the medieval red fort of delhi and agra are example of it.
2. glorification of the architecture. the architecture of modern and old times were
equally glorified. They represent the pride of the ruling regime. the viceroy palace of
shimla and the chola temples and taj mahal are the examples of the same.
3. Vastness of architecture. They cover a huge area and height. The Rashtrapati Bhavan
region covers north and south blocks too and similarly, the shahjahanabad and fatehpur
sikri represent the vastness and height at the same time.
Besides these similarities, both type of architectures have many differences.

1. the british style of architecture was dominant in recent times. eg- connaught place.
2. more efforts were made for the living place architecture and not just for the glory of
the regime. eg- lutyen's delhi.
3. the modern architecture was limited to Britishers only and Indians remain aloof but it
wasn't the case in old times. Indian people had main role in making of taj mahal.
4. industrialisation changed the style of construction from hammer and chisel to latest
technlogy.
5. the thin designs and art of architects is missing in recent times. eg- dilwara jain
temple.
Thus, though the representatives of modern architectures can be compared with old
buildings in some way, but there distinct traits make them class apart and best in their
own fields.

of Literature in modern times.
Q) “Unlike in Europe where, by the 17th century, French and English
had broken with the dominance of Latin to create not just literature,
but also philosophy, historiography, sociology, science etc in their
tongues, in India the achievement of regional languages beyond the
crucial (and yet also limited) domain of literature is a major
impediment.” In the light of ongoing movements to make regional
languages medium of instruction in schools and politics associated
with them, critically examine why regional languages have failed to
excel in fields other than literature. (200 Words)
The Hindu
Ans- After independence, the leaders of new Indian nation recognized the opportunity
to unite all the regions of India with a common, universal language. Thus, the following
requirements were pointed out by Mahatma Gandhi for any language to be accepted as
the national language:
-It must be easy to learn for government officials and for the whole country.
-Capable of serving as a medium of religious, economic and political intercourse
throughout India.
-It must be spoken by the majority.
As a result, Hindi was chosen as a national language and on Nehru's assurance it was
never imposed on people in non-Hindi areas where English started playing a prominent
role as an official language in addition to the regional language.
-The educational consequence was that many children have to learn 2 languages
(English and Hindi) next to their mother tongue in school and other children speaking a
non-official minority language are taught 3 languages.
-In general, schools using regional language as the medium of instruction have come to
be associated with poor quality, mainly because most of them are government run and
hence not held accountable.
-While the government encourages the idea of teaching and learning in the regional
languages (Three Language Formula, etc), the truth is that most students have to know
English to do well in higher education. Students learning in regional languages do not
have the kind of resources they need, as English books are not translated into their
regional languages. Even though some higher education courses are available in regional
languages, the demand for these is less.
-Given the multitude of problems and the diversity of languages, the medium of
instruction remains a topic of impassioned debate. Language is seen as a factor fuelling
nationalistic pride.
Despite govt trying to kindle linguistic pride, many parents still see English could help
their wards find employment and thus regional languages failed to make an impact in
the education and other fields of India.

Q) The Revolt of the sepoys was accompanied by a rebellion of the civil population,
particularly in the North Western Provinces and Oudh, the two areas from which the
sepoys of the Bengal army were recruited. Comment on the reasons which prompted
civil population to rebel during the 1857 Revolt. (200 Words)
India‘s Struggle for Independence, Chapter 1
Ans- The revolt of 1857 which was initiated by sepoys, later also was accompanied by
civil popoluation. Though the sepoys has their own reasons like differentiation among
indian and british soldiers, chewing of gun parts before firing etc, the civil population
has their own reasons-
1. Peasants and farmers- Most of the sepoys were from rural area. Thus the oppressive
on them had a direct impact on their relatives in villages. In fact, it is said that sepoys in
british India were "peasants in uniform"
2. Land taxation- the land revenues was increased manifold by zamindars which was
tough to pay by peasants. This high taxation, many a times even resulted in loss of land
to farmers. Thus the farmers revolted to reduce the high taxation.
3. Loyalty towards Oudh king- The Oudh king was removed by Britishers, which
angered the local population. They revolted to restore the kingship of Oudh.
4. Indigo planters- Britishers forced the local peasants to plant indigo. They revolted
against this practise.
The revolt of 1857, was not fought on a united reasons. Different parts of the country
have their own reasons to revolt. But the involvement of civil population along with
sepoys added fire to the revolt.

Q) Critically examine how did British colonialism affect tribal way of
life and their relationship with the forests in the nineteenth century.
How did tribals react to this and with what consequences? Examine.
(200 Words)
Ans- At the time British advent in India was having a thick forest cover and mostly
inhabited by the tribals who in their own way had an association of harmonious
sustenance with nature. But with the increase of the British commercial interests given
the vast diversity of crops and minerals in India , they have started cutting down forests
and thus came in conflict with tribals.
They were made to pay land revenue and often debarred from their lands, they were not
allowed to practice Juhm cultivation , forced to do begar and the missionary influence
who tried to convert them to and persuade them to leave their centuries old traditions.
This has evoked popular discontent in the tribal and several tribal uprisings such as
Santhal, Munda, Gonds, Lushai,Bhil, Kols etc. have erupted which waged all out
struggles against the Britishers to safeguard their lands and people. Although they
fought valiantly with great leaders such as Birsa Munda, Sido and Kanhu but given the
military and modern artillery of the Britishers , they were not able to face them for long
and eventually faced catastrophic repressions amounting to pogroms.
Last but not the least they have shown the way to the much educated and modern
Indians to fight and assert for their rights.

Q) The most militant and widespread of the peasant movements was
the Indigo Revolt of 1859-60. Did it succeed in its objectives? If so,
how? Examine. (200 Words)
Ans- British in which planters were forced to grow Indigo which made their land
infertile was a major cause of the uprising. The ryot was even cheated and enforcement
of fraudulent contracts crushed him completely. It succeeded because of
- mass and collective non cooperation from the rebellious ryots, like refusal to pay
enhanced revenue and mass social boycott.
- The united resistance was very powerful and the planters were forced to shut down
factories.
- The revolt had immense cooperation, organized and a disciplined effort.
- Complete Hindu Muslim unity was one of the major factors.
- The leadership was strong which were accompanied by well off ryots, moneylenders
and ex employees of planters
- The Bengal intelligentsia played an important role by organizing a powerful campaign

in support by using Press as the tool. It had a deep impact on the emerging nationalist
intellectuals.
_ Missionaries extended active support to the revolt.
Overall it was a success and ultimately government notified that ryots could not be
compelled to grow Indigo and planters closed all the factories. It was a brave and
intelligent example for the future generations.

times.
Q) Write a note on the significance of the statue of dancing girl of
Mohenjodaro to India‟s art and culture. (150 Words)
CCRT
Ans- One of the rarest artefacts world-over, a tiny bronze-cast, the statue of a young
lady called 'Indus dancing girl', represents a stylistically poised female figure performing
a dance. The bronze statue is hardly four inches high yet speaks ample of the superb
craftsmanship and of the caster's skills.
Significance-
1) Social outlook - The forward thrust of the left leg and backwards tilted right, the
gesture of the hands, demeanour of the face and uplifted head, all speak of absorption in
dance, perhaps one of those early styles that combined drama with dance, and dialogue
with body-gestures. It was a well developed society, Indus people had innovated dance
and other performing arts as modes of entertainment. Her elaborately coiled hair, her
bangles and necklaces speaks of social life of India at that time.
2)Scientific & technical outlook- But its most interesting aspect is that in casting it the
Harappan metallurgists used an advanced technique known as the lost-wax (cire
perdue) process. The Indus artists knew metal blending and casting and perhaps other
technical aspects of metallurgy
3) Skill of art & handicraft - The figure has been cast as wearing on her
breasts a necklace with four 'phalis' like shaped pendants.
4) Dress, hair styles & ornaments - Women loved jewellery and wore heavy bangles in
profusion, large necklaces, and earrings.
5) Women‘s Status- with hand on hip, and the expression of self-assurance on her face,
it represents a respected & confident woman of Harappan society
6) Open Society - This small figure confirms that the Harappan people were neither shy
of nakedness nor of explicit sensuality

times.
Q) Examine the influence of Buddhism and its concepts on the art of
Mauryan empire with suitable examples. (150 Words)
CCRT
Ans- Ashoka made a dramatic conversion to Buddhism after witnessing the carnage
that resulted from his conquest of Kalinga. He adopted the teachings of the Buddha
known as the Four Noble Truths, referred to as the dharma. We can see following
influence of Buddhism and its concepts on the art of Mauryan Empire.
Influence of Buddhism and its concepts on the art of Mauryan Empire -:
1. The physical appearance of the pillars underscores the Buddhist doctrine. Most of the
pillars were topped by sculptures of animals.
2. Each pillar is also topped by an inverted lotus flower, which is the most pervasive
symbol of Buddhism (a lotus flower rises from the muddy water to bloom unblemished
on the surface—thus the lotus became an analogy for the Buddhist practitioner as he or
she, living with the challenges of everyday life and the endless cycle of birth and rebirth,
was able to achieve Enlightenment).
3. This flower, and the animal that surmount it, form the capital, the topmost part of a
column. Most pillars are topped with a single lion or a bull in either seated or standing
positions. The Buddha was born into the Shakya or lion clan. The lion, in many cultures,
also indicates royalty or leadership. The animals are always in the round and carved
from a single piece of stone.
4. They were also erected at pilgrimage sites such as at Bodh Gaya, the place of Buddha‘s
Enlightenment, and Sarnath, the site of his First Sermon and Sanchi, where the
Mahastupa, the Great Stupa of Sanchi, is located. Stupa is a burial mound for an
esteemed person. When the Buddha died, he was cremated and his ashes were divided
and buried in several stupas. These stupas became pilgrimage sites for Buddhist
practitioners.
5. several symbols became popular as stand-ins for the human likeness of the Buddha.
The lotus, as noted above, is one. The lion, which is typically seen on the Ashokan
pillars, is another.
6. The wheel (chakra) is a symbol of both samsara, the endless circle of birth and
rebirth, and the dharma, the Four Noble Truths.

times.
Q) “Gupta sculpture is the logical outcome of the early classical
sculpture of Amravati and Mathura.” Discuss with examples. (150
Words)
CCRT
Ans- The Gupta period can be described as ―classic‖ in the sense of the degree of
perfection never achieved before or since, and in the perfect balance and harmony of all
elements in style and iconography.
Mathura art flourished during Kushana period. Numbers of sculptures of Buddha and
Brahmanical deities were carved which included Kartikeya, Vishnu, Kubera in Mathura
art.
Amravati art flourished during Satavahanas and Ikshavaku rules. The main
characteristic of the Amravati school is the ―narrative art‖. The medallions were carved
in such a manner that they depict an incident in a natural way ex: taming of an elephant
by Buddha.
Gupta art shows an emphasis on Hindu art carried from Kushana period and the climax
of Buddha art and all combined tendencies of Amravati School seen at Udayagiri caves
where narrative Vishnu figures can be seen. Gupta art also showed exemplary tolerance
for both Buddhism and Jainism.
So, it can be concluded that Gupta sculpture is the logical outcome of early art forms of
Kushana and Satavahanas period.

waterbodies and ice-caps) and in flora and fauna and the
effects of such changes; Paper-3; Conservation
Q) Critically discuss the effects of deforestation on Indian economy.
(200 Words)
The Hindu
Ans- Recent study which observed that Deforestration in Northern mid attitudes has
caused a decreased of 1/5th of Monsoon in India ,though raised moderately rainn in
Southern Hemisphere and Australia and South Africa
It is evident that Deforestation has the impact on the Indian economy , which still
largely depend on the Agriculture and Monsoon . Some of effects of Deforestration are
~ Greater Pollution or carbon emission with no carbon capture increased the Health
burden of the country
~Greater amount of funds will be diverted for the climate change , resilient crops which
otherwise could have helped in raising the incomes
~Monsoon plays key role in Monetary policy of Rbi thus tight and dear economy may
harm the market sentiments Like after ELNINO ,ENSO
~Deforestation caused increased land pressure as more tribal becomes share croppers
thus increasing of lower strata in the economy
~Deforestation and Encroachment to natural resources like Wetlands etc also causes
disasters like Deluge in Uttarakhand etc
~Forest, tress preserve and withhold the nutrients in the soil. Absence causes greater
use of fertiliser, which is generally subsidised in India ~ 70k cr subsidy
~Tourism and Aviation are also affected as, Eco tourism is affected , also Leads to job
loss unemployment etc As cited in recent AAI report
~It also causes Change in rainfall, crop failure , pushing farmer s to migrate already
stressed over burdened cities , thereby causing slums , poor hygiene crime, prostitution
,social inequalities etc
In totality, depleting the Nature's wealth also decreases the health of its Human and
Economy.
Topic: Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of Art Forms
from ancient to modern times.
Q) Describe the nature and form of wall paintings of Ajanta caves.
(200 Words)
CCRT
Ans- The wall paintings of Ajanta caves belong to period from 2nd century BCE to 7th
century CE.
NATURE: they are mainly religious in their content depicting buddhist scriptures
(especially jatakas) except few places where Hindu religious gods are represented.
FORM: As they are drawn over many centuries and by artisans belonging to various
guilds they show great stylistic variation along with maintaining certain common
features.
The common features are...
>Centrality
>perspective drawing
>common physical features such as half closed eyes
>black outline with various body colours
Early paintings are naturalistic without overstylisation whereas later ones are more
sophisticated and fluid. Their evolution was parallel and similar to the evolution of
buddhist sculpture...ex:sanchi and vengi sculpture
The greatness of these paintings lies in thier success in bringing out the philosophy of
Buddhism in paintings ex:Padmapani painting showing bitterness of renunciation of life
and hope for future happiness.
They were the inspiration for paintings in southern region. They also attained the status
of World heritage site status and continue to inspire present generations.
Q) Write short notes on the following in about 100 words:
a) The Mughal School of Painting
b) Basohli School of Painting
c) Kangra School of Painting
CCRT
Ans- a) The Mughal School of Painting (Words: 114)
Mughal painting developed under Akbar and his successors. They can be classified into
two categories: 1. Persian factor is prominent, 2. Portraits.
The former consists of illustration in manuscripts and the latter portraits mounted as
album pages. The representation of historical events, typical darbar scenes show the
true character of the Mughal style of painting.
Most significant are Hamza Nama, Razm-Nama or ―The Book of War‖, Akbar Nama.
Mughal artists were influenced by European subject matter, motifs, and techniques. So,
they gradually abandoned the Persian mode of colouring and took to the technique of
representing consistent lighting through chiaroscuro. During Jahangir‘s time Animal
paintings reached new height. Shah Jahan –Nama was also vital work.
b) Basohli School of Painting (Words-110)
Basholi painting existed in Basholi a tiny state between the rivers of Ravi and Chenab.
Emotional scenes from a text called ―Rasamanjari‖ formed the theme for these
paintings, besides the Krishna legend. Paintings are splendidly coloured each colour
describing a particular emotion. A Plain background was preferred as that the figures
would be prominent. The origin of this school of painting is a subject of debate some
attributing it to Rajasthan having much in common with the Rajasthani painting and
some saying it has impact of Mughal miniature techniques.
The state of Gular drew inspiration from Basholi painting but developed a style of its
own.
c) Kangra School of Painting (Words: ~110)
The Kangra school refers to the painting which existed in the Kangra valley and in the
adjacent Punjab plains. In Kangra paintings the main theme is the story of Lord
Krishna. There are some naturalistic drawings of flowers and fruits but no "Ragamalas".
The colour is tender and charming. The eyes of figures are long strokes of the brush as in
the Ajanta paintings. The paintings are realisitic and prove that the artists have studied
nature.
The Kangra style can be seen in the paintings during the period of Shah Jahan in whose
time Molaram, a painter was a descendant of Rajput painters, worked at the Mughal
court.
Q) With suitable examples, explain what features describe the
„modern school‟ of Indian painting. (200 Words)
CCRT
Ans- For the sake of chronology, the Modern period in Indian art is said to have begun
in 1857. It was called 'modern' due to Western influence evident in the work of Raja Ravi
Verma who is considered the foremost exponent of the style. Lady in moonlight and
Ravana kidnapping Sita are two of his famous paintings. These paintings are in the
western naturalistic style using oil paint and easel painting and not for glorification.
The Bengal school developed as a reactionary style. It was characterised by simple

colours and was distinctly nostalgic and romantic. The Bengal school developed under
Abhinidranath Tagore and came to dominate for the next three decades until it declined
in the 1940s. Rabindranath Tagore's paintings also belong to the same school. Its main
features are use of simple colours, domianat black lines, sense of rhythm and small size
paintings. Eg. Abhindranath Tagore's Arabian Night series.
Eventually, the modern school came to be characterised by an international aesthetic of

abstract form, emphasis on the individual''s sensory perception of colour, form,
structure and medium. These were explored by artist like Amrita Shergill and later by
Tyeb Mehta, Jamini Roy, MF Hussain etc.

Q) Which names stand out among the large number of Indians who
initiated and carried out the economic analysis of British rule during
the years 1870-1905? Analyse how they interpreted colonialism and
what impact their analyses had on India‟s national movement. (200
Words)
Bipan Chandra – Struggle for India‘s Independence, Chapter – 7
Ans- Initially, Indians intellectuals looked upon British Raj with a positive attitude,
with the hope that the highly developed nation of that time, will also help in the
advancement of India.
---But gradually, such hopes began to fade away with the discriminatory export-import
policies of the Britishers, which deprived many Indian workers from their ancestral
livelihood, and the economy of the nation began to crumble.
---Dadabhai Naoroji was the first person to look through the plans of the Raj. He wrote
the book ―Poverty and Unbritish Rule in India‖. In this, he exposed the economic
policies of the govt, which were detrimental to the countrymen, in the form of the Drain
theory.
---Another person, R C Dutt, published the book ―Economic History of India‖, in which
he wrote about the entire economic system of the nation under Britishers, since the
Battle of Plassey (1757).
---Others like, G Subramaniyam Iyer and Gopal Krishna Gokhale, along with many
others, worked together to analyse every aspect of the nation‘s economy under the
colonial rule.
---The result of all the analysis was that, all the thinkers began to interpret colonialism
as the drain of nation‘s wealth, to fill the coffers of the foreign rulers. They understood
that the imperialism was being sustained by subordinating India‘s economy to Britain‘s
economy.
---Due to these revelations, this period served as the seed time of the national struggle,
where the people began to see the real face of the colonial masters. This prepared the
base for the more vigorous movements that were to come in the future.

Q) Critically examine how did the Press started by prominent Indians
both in English and vernacular languages influence the freedom
struggle. Also examine how the British reacted to this medium of
national awakening. (200 Words)
Ans- From the beginning of the 19th century, politically conscious Indians had been
attracted to modem civil rights, especially the freedom of the Press, Considering it as the
chief instrument for carrying out education and formation of nationalist ideology.
This is how press helped the freedom struggle :
--Awakening the masses- Nearly all the major political controversies of the day were
conducted through the Press. Newspapers would reach the remote villages and would
then be read by a reader to tens of others.
--Opposition to the government - Almost every act and every policy of the Government
was subjected to sharp criticism.
--Library culture - Libraries were opened and frequently used by the people.
--Highlighting the freedom fighters - Press highlighted the ideologies and works of
freedom fighters which helped them to reach to all section of people.
--Helping INC - INC's resolutions and proceedings had to be propagated through

newspapers.
Britishers soon realised the potential of press to ignite the agitation among Indians.
Section 124 A was already there against the journalists because of which they cannot
criticize government personnel‘s directly.
Britishers arrested many Indian journalists and writers who opposed the government.
Vernacular press act provided for the confiscation of the printing press if the
Government believed that it was publishing seditious materials. The Government
amended a new Section 153A to the penal code, making it a criminal
offence for anyone to attempt ‗to bring into contempt‘ the Government of India or to
create hatred among different classes.
Press was responsible for arousing, training, mobilizing people and consolidating
nationalist public opinion. The actions of Britishers against the freedom of press led to a
nationwide protest and helped the freedom struggle.

Q) “Legislative Councils in India had no real official power till 1920.
Yet, work done in them by the nationalists helped the growth of the
national movement.” Examine. (200 Words)
Ans- The Imperial legislative council formed was an impotent body with few
representation for Indians and that too rich and wealthy and having no power to make a
significant effect. It was formed to vent out the political steam by British but nationalist
were able to use these platform significantly in following ways:
They use these council for exposing the true nature of British Government and their
indifferent attitude towards Indians. Nationalist flayed government foreign policy which
resulted in annexation of Burma and attack on Afghanistan and time-consuming judicial
system.
They made these councils a platform for political discussions and severely criticised the
government policies. G.K Gokhale raised important questions regarding the budget in
the council and severely reprimanded British government for their anti –Indian
economic policies.
The councils were used to raise demands regarding discrimination of Indians in civil
services exam, to increase the social spending, to treat Indian bureaucrats on par with
European etc.
Nationalists were able to create a wide national awakening and a feeling of unity from
these platforms
They used these councils to disseminate modern ideas and to mobilize the masses.
But restricted social base and their failure to achieve anything substantive through these
councils made the nationalist to raise the demand for swaraj. It was only through their
incessant efforts inside the councils that several economic and political demands for the
betterment of Indians could be raised.

Q) An important aspect of the Swadeshi Movement was the great
emphasis given to self-reliance or „Atmasakti‟ as a necessary part of
the struggle against the Government. What was the nature of
„Atmasakti‟ and how successful was it in its objective during the
movement? Examine. (200 Words)
Ans- Greater emphasis on self-reliance or Atmashakti is one of the few important

methods of struggle against the government during Swadeshi Movement. Self-reliance
in various fields implied
the re-assertion of national dignity and self-respect.
Nature of Self-Reliance work:
Social and economic regeneration of the villages :
-As part of social regeneration, campaign against evils such as caste oppression, dowry
system early marriage and consumption of alcohol etc.
-Effort to setup swadeshi or indigenous enterprise.
Ex: Acharya P.C. Ray‘s Bengal chemical factory.
Swadeshi Education:
-One of the major works is promoting Swadeshi education.
National council of Education was setup to intensify these efforts. Primary education in
vernacular language was encouraged
and for technical education Bengal technical institute was established
How far it is successful?
Atmasakti could instil confidence among the Indians by undermining their perception of
inferiority about their own culture and superiority of white man. Atmasakti helped in
expanding the base of Swadeshi movement by bringing many sections who were
hitherto untouched under its fold.
But the split of congress, exile of extremist leaders and lack of effective organization
caused a severe blow to the movement. The movement slowly declined by time.
However, the new ideas, methods of mass mobilization and the spirit of movement
served as an inspiration for the upcoming successful national movement.
Topic: Effects of globalization on Indian society

Q) “The State of the elderly in India: 2014 report serves to highlight
the dichotomy between an apparently happy picture of increased
longevity and the reality of long years of hopelessness without family,
society or state support, which the elderly in India face today.”
Critically analyse. (200 Words)
Frontline
Ans- With marvels in preventive medicines, better food, sanitaion and health care,
Longetivity has increased considerably(Life Expectanacy) from 36 years in 1947 to 68
years in 2014. Lifestyles, priorities and technological advancements are changing fast in
societies, which pushed the aged people on corner and made them live a secluded life.
There are many reasons for misery of old people these days which raise doubts on
whether longetivity of some extra years filled with idleness and hopelessness are really
great achievement ?. Some problems elderly people faces are:
(1.) Loneliness as all children are prefering nuclear family.
(2.) Lesser social space due to busy life of everyone.
(3.) Mostly they are under life supporting drugs which prevent them from taking radical
steps like excercise, travelling alone, living unattended by nurse etc.
(4.) Dependent monetary wise on someone else.
(5.) Loss of self-esteem because, once they were useful part of society but due to
technological development and all, there experience and wisdom doesn‘t hold any value
now.
(6.) Many elderly are single as other partner has died, so they are left with no one to
depend on.
Some steps needed to minify such issues:
(1.) Spreading awareness for insurance, provident funds, retirement plans.
(2.) Regular training in all fields so that, they are updated with newer ways and
technologies in those fields.
(3.) Increased stress on formation of Old age home in each districts where one can settle
after retirement. NGOs can also come forward for it.
(4.) Elders who were in good services like teaching, nursing etc. Their service should be
increased if they wish with no raise in salary.
Govt should focus on providing safety net for old aged by various health cover plans;
this will boost health sector as well as insurance sector. Old age care home is also
required for their support and care.
Topic: Women issues

Q) The union government has decided to set up „One-Stop Centres‟
that will provide assistance, legal advice and psychological
counselling to women who have „faced‟ violence or abuse. Critically
comment on measures such as this one which try to „address‟ violence
against women. (200 Words)
The Hindu
Ans- Crimes against women are increasing day and day. To tackle the atrocities against
women and make women an equal and integral part of the society, government has
decided to set up one stop crisis centres for women in distress.
These centres will provide assistance, legal advice and psychological counselling to
women who faced violence or abuse and will be connected by a universal women‘s
helpline. 36 such crises centres will be set up, one in each state.
To make the system gender sensitive, Women and Child Ministry has also proposed 33%
reservation for women in police, appointment of women as Special Police Officers who
will provide an interface between the police force and the women affected by violence.
Although the measures taken by the government are impressive, but they not worth
when not implemented properly.
1. Delay in implementation:
This scheme , One Stop Crisis Centres (OSCCs), was formulated way back in 2013 but
the implementation was delayed.
2. Funds not utilized:

The Nirbhaya fund , though allocated , has still not been utilised to the full capacity.
3. Delayed Justice:
The cases related to crime against women like sexual assault, molestation and rape etc.
should have speedier trials but only half the fast-track courts set up across the country
are still functional. Rest of them have closed down due to lack of funds.
A speedier implementation of the measures taken is the need of the hour to improve
status of women in India in terms of education, mortality, life expectancy, participation
in local government, budget allocations among others.
Topic: Salient features of Indian Society

Q) “A society that believes that every woman, irrespective of her
moral or sexual choices, has the right to her own body, must also
believe that a person, irrespective of the crime he is accused of, has
the right to the due process of law.” In the light of recent incidences
where mobs took law in their hands, critically comment on the
statement. (200 Words)
The Hindu
Ans- The constitution of India provides us the right to equality. It means like every
man, a women has equal right and it she who has the right to her own body irrespective
of her morality or sexual choice.
In the recent incidents in Nagaland where we saw that a angry mob broke out into
central jail and lynched and naked the accused in road where he died of injuries. In
democratic set up and a society like ours the onus is primarily on the law to provide
justice. No one has the right to take law in their own hands.
When the Nirbhaya incident took place almost every TV channels were talking about
why the culprits not hanged? why the culprits not given death penalty? So it is eminent
from the fact that people in large in our society are not legally literate. They do not
understand criminology. When we talk about hang this man that means we are talking
about revenge. But the Law doesn‘t believe in taking revenge. The whole law is so built
that we should either
create prevention or we create a deterrent.
There for by lynching somebody we are not helping the victim or cause. The aim should
not be finishing criminal but it should be crime.

Forms from ancient to modern times.
Q) Write a note on different aspects of India‟s traditional dance
system. (200 Words)
CCRT
Ans- Dance has always been considered ad a complete art and has had close association
with god and worship. The earliest examples of dance in India can be traced back to the
dancing pictures in Bhimbetka caves and bronze statue of dancing girl of Mohenjodaro.
Bharatmuni's Natyashashtra is a famous treatise on Natya which includes dance as well.
Other works are like Nandikeshwar's AbhinayaDarpan.
1. Sangeet Natak Academy confers "classical" status on 8 dances: Bharatnatyam of Tamil
Nadu, Kuchipudi of Andhra Pradesh, Kathakali amd Mohiniattam of Kerala, Kathak of
Uttar Pradesh, Sattriya of Assam, Odissi of Odisha and Manipuri of Manipur. This is on
the basis of their history.
2. Dance forms in India were kept alive by devadasis amd later revived by various
artists.
3. Dance has two aspects: Tandava and Lasya. Tandava emphasizes on body movements
and masculinity while Lasya focusses on grace and abhinaya, so more feminine.
4. Earlier dances were segregated exclusively for females or males but now group, solos
and mixed are common.
5. Dances were scripted around 9 rasas or emotions like heroism, love, anger, etc.
Themes were derived from mythology like Radha-Krishna, Shiva-Parvati, etc. Many
Muslim kings also added their elements and learnt traditional dance like Nawab Wajid
Ali of Oudh.
6. Performance of these dances usually begins with invocation of god, mostly Ganesha,
then the tempo is slowly raised to more rhythmic movements, and musical instruments
played.
7. Besides, many folk dances are also prevalent amongst tribes. Kalbelia of Rajasthan
and Chhau of Bihar, Bengal are on the UNESCO list of Intangible Cultural Hertitage.
Besides, Bihu of Assam, Garba and Dandiya of Gujarat, Ghoomat of Rajasthan, etc. are
famous.

Forms from ancient to modern times.
Q) Compare and contrast expression and art forms between
Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi. (200 Words)
CCRT
CCRT
Ans- Both forms Classical dances of India with following similarities and differences:
Comparatives
1. Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam have many mudras in common. Apart from the
similarity, there are three unique steps of Kuchipudi. Natya, Nritta and Nritya and three
famous mudras related to Bharatanatyam.
2. Cross pleat costume is used in Bharatanatyam. Cross pleat costume is associated with
Kuchipudi dance. In this the male artists plays the role of either Muruga or Krishna.
3. Bharatanatyam music is of Carnatic style and the accompanying instruments are
thala, flute, violin, and veena. Sanskrit, Tamil and Kannada are the languages of
Bharatanatyam.
Kuchipudi is colloquial form of the Sanskrit term Kuseelavapuri. It is also Carnatic form
of music.
Constrasts
1. Bharatnatyam is precisely known for its elegance, grace, softness, clarity and
sculptured poses. On the other hand most of the poses in Kuchipudi are brisk, flat-
footed, dazzling and overall curved having more rounded poses.
2. Bharatnatyam is termed the fire dance replicating the inner fire within the human
body. On the other hand, Kuchipudi replicates man‘s undying desire to unite with God.
3. Bharatanatyam is a solo, lasya type of a dance, which is tender and erotic. Kuchipudi
combines lasya and tandav elements, folk and classical shades.
4. Prescribed costumes and ornaments are strictly followed in kuchipudi.
5.Bharatanatyam has "Alairppu" a pure dance without any meaning or expression just
accompanied by the syllables of the performer and set to the thala(beat), while
kuchipudi is devotional dance which leads to salvation to the performer, it is based on
Bhagavat Purana.
Q) Write a note on the influence of religion and religious practices on
some of India‟s traditional dance forms. (200 Words)
CCRT
Ans- Dance has always been considered a complete art. It was seen as a means of
praising the Almighty and trying to connect with God. Religion had influences on all
dance forms of India:
1. Traditional dance forms are derived from Bharatmuni's Natyashashtra. He considered
the source of art to Brahma who created the fifth Veda, NatyaVed.
2. Natraj, the dancing Shiva, represents destruction, and release from bondage.
3. Traditional dance forms were kept alive by devdasis who performed at temples.
4. Bharatnatyam ia calles fire dance and its moves resembles a dancing flame. The
performer's right hand is in shape of OM.
The dancer invokes God at the start and seeks blessings at the end.
5. Kuchipudi represents an intense desire to unite with God. Most of the themes are
inspired by Vaishnavism like Radha-Krishna, etc.
6. Kathak, in North India, originated from gesticulations of story tellers who preached
stories from mythology.
7. Kathakali represents eternal fight between good and bad. Mohiniattam is inspired by
Mohini ( a Lord Vishnu avatar).
8. Manipuri has legendary references to Shiva-Parvati. Sattriya dnce ws kept alive by
Sattras, the Vaishnav Math.
9. Garba and Dandiya of Gujarat are performed in Navratri.
Thus, religion and mythology have played a significant role in originating, inspiring,
protecting and propagating dance forms.
Topic: Women issues; Women Empowerment

Q) “Despite the gains women have made in education, health and even
political power in the course of a generation, violence against women
and girls worldwide „persists at alarmingly high levels,‟ according to a
United Nations analysis.” Critically analyse the magnitude of this
problem and suggest what needs to be done at global level to address
this issue. (200 Words)
The New York Times
The Hindu
Ans- According to recent UN report the magnitude of violence against women is still
very serious after 20 years of Beijing Declaration on women rights. Under current
scenario:
[1]Around the world, ~ 35% women have experienced sexual or physical violence from
intimate/non intimate partners.
[2]One in 10 girls under 18 was forced to have sex.
[3]Reportage of cases of violence is miniscule
[4]Sex selective abortions in developing countries [India, Armenia etc] are on rise. Many
women have been kept as sex slaves in African and Middle East countries (+ISIS)
[5]Cases of domestic violence are on rise and are mostly under reported
Last century has seen significant progress in empowerment of women like:
[1]Access to primary and higher education
[2]Participation in work forces ,driven by globalization
[3]Falling pay gap between men and women
[5]Falling female mortality rate and Gender Inequality Gap, rising political
empowerment and still progress in reducing violence against women have been slow
due to :
[1]Under the basis of cultural issues many countries have not legislated punitive laws for
violence against women [Arab countries] or adjudication process being very slow
[India].
[2]Domestic violence and marital rape ,which consists of significant chunk, not being
criminal offences in many countries [like India, Nigeria]
[3]Still gaps of income, literacy, political participation exist
[4]Many countries in Middle East, South Asia are facing hostile situations [Communal
violence, internal migrations, forced conversions],in which women are soft targets.
Under this scenario serious global effort is required to mitigate violence against women
and accelerate the process of empowerment like:
[1]Mitigation of violence against women should be made one of targets in a serious note,
in Sustainable Development Goals which is to be adopted and shown real progress by
member countries in time bound manner
[2]Start of campaigns for women empowerment, IEC activities help to women in
distress and end to violence against on the model of Polio Elimination/Climate
Agreements
[3]Make funding commitments from member countries [+World Bank] to support such
programs and incentives for countries doing real progress in this direction
[4] Make 'end to violence against women' as one of primary criteria for international
funding
[5]Need for speedy adjudication of cases, comprehensive criminal laws covering all sorts
of violence against women and international pressure and sanctions against countries
who do not recognise equal rights of women under pretexts of their local culture
Topic: population and associated issues

Q) An interesting way of studying the population composition of a
country is by looking at the population pyramid, also called an age-sex
pyramid. With examples, examine how this pyramid helps in studying
population composition of a country. (200 Words)
NCERT
Ans- Age sex pyramid is a specially designed and most effective diagram to study the
age and sex composition of the population. This diagram resembles the shape of the
pyramid and thus is termed as pyramid diagram. The bars are arranged in the form of a
pyramid having longer bar at the base representing youngest age group and shorter bar
at the apex representing oldest age group. The bar shows different age group, males on
the left and females on the right. Horizontal bars show the percentage of males and
females in each age group. The shape of pyramid throws light on the history and the
characteristic of the population.
The overall shape of the pyramid indicates the potential for future growth. The four
representations of population age-sex structure provide an overall example of what a
pyramid for different levels of population growth would look like- rapid growth, slow
growth, zero growth, and negative growth. The country pyramids shown in "Three
Patterns of Population Change" also represent different stages of population growth
going on today.
Diagram-
http://a.disquscdn.com/uploads/mediaembed/images/1819/6073/original.jpg
Topic: Geographical features and their location- changes in

critical geographical features
Q) Landslides have become frequent hazards in the Himalayan
regions. Examine the causes of these landslides and measures needed
to mitigate them. (200 Words)
NCERT
Ans- The sudden movement of rock, debris or earth along the slope is called landslide.
The various causes of landslides are-
a) Natural causes-
1. Landslides are generally associated with natural calamities like earthquake, volcanic
eruptions, floods, cloudburst, etc
2. Long spell of rainfall
3. Loose soil cover and sloping terrain
b) Anthropogenic causes-
1. Rapid urbanization and changes in land use patterns
2. Rampant deforestation and mining activities like blasting and quarrying, etc
3. Increased industialisation leading to climate change and weather disturbances
4. Change in river flow due to construction of dams, barriers, etc
Various measures needed to mitigate them are-

1. Hazard mapping by demarcating areas prone to landslides and avoiding stress on
those areas for settlement
2. Construction of retention walls to avoid land from slipping
3. Increasing afforestation and vegetation cover
4. Practise measures to check soil erosion like terrace farming, contour ploughing, etc
5. Implementing surface drainage control works to control the movement of landslide
along with rain water and spring flows.
6. Proper planning of developmental processes following sustainable methods.
Topic: geographical features and their location- changes in

critical geographical features
Q) Write a critical note on the effect of soil erosion on the
environment and methods used in soil conservation. (200 Words)
NCERT
Ans- Soil is the earth‘s fragile skin that anchors all life on earth. It is comprised of
countless species that create a dynamic and complex ecosystem and is among the most
precious resources to humans. Soil erosion results in the loss of soil fertility and makes
the land barren. Soil erosion impacts the agriculture as well as the natural environment.
Effects:
- Loses its most nutrient-rich layer, and therefore soil quality is reduced.
- Poor soil quality means smaller crop yields therefore more use of fertilizer and
chemical which contaminate water.
- Weaken the soil's ability to hold water, leaving the field susceptible to weather
conditions such as droughts.
- Contaminates drinking water and disrupts ecosystems of lakes and wetlands which
negatively impact the fish and wildlife.
- Sediments that accumulate down slope of the erosion can obstruct the flow of water in
streams and drainage canals, leading to flooding.
Methods for soil conservation:
- Increased vegetational cover, planting tall trees which act as a wind breaker.
- Contour farming
- Interculturing operation will kill the weed and soil mulches help the plant to be rooted
firmly on the ground called mulching.
- Crop rotation
- Dry farming method
- Construction of ponds
- Building small dams in gullies to

slowdown water runoff
- Over grazing should be avoided
- Adequate drainage system
Topic: Resources
Q) What are the different non-conventional sources of energy? Do
you think they have been adequately utilized in India? Critically
examine. (200 Words)
NCERT
Ans- Non-conventional sources of energy are those which have not been use that
frequently in the past unlike conventional sources like coal,oil etc.Different types of
non-conventional sources of energy includes solar power,wind energy,biogas,tidal
energy,shale gas,coal bed methane,geothermal energy etc.All these sources are

renewable or inexhaustible and do not cause environmental pollution
Despite Indian physiography being favorable towards non-conventional with a vast

resources of these the share of non-conventional sources to the total energy hovers
around 10% which shows their under-utilization.India have not been able to reap the
benefits of non-conventional energy owing to following reasons:-
1)lack of advanced technology which is required to avail the energy as sources like
solar,wind,geothermal requires advanced technology.
2)Shortage of capital along with lack of interest shown by foreign investors owing to
differences over some laws.Further lack of political will complicates the matter.
3)High Cost-benefit ratio of the energy produced from these sources compared to
conventional sources and easy availability of conventional sources like coal etc go
against the non-conventional sources
4)Delay in land acquisition process have also created hurdles as some of the non-
conventional sources like solar, wind power requires huge land area.
Of late the government is moving towards non-conventional sources owing to present

energy starved status of the country along with increasing demand for energy and
environment concerns. Recent deals with countries like USA, Germany etc in the field is
a step forward in the direction of tapping these non-conventional sources. Further the
Make in India campaign will also help along with initiatives like floating solar cells on
canals, rivers which were also praised by the UN General Secretary Ban-Ki-Moon.
It is high time that the country should move forward to non-conventional sources in a
larger way by collaborating with technologically advances countries along with making
the business environment conducive for foreign investment in the country in order to fill
the demand-supply gap without having an imprint on the environment.

Q) What are the important factors that determine the location of an
industry? With suitable examples, examine the factors responsible for
the location and growth of cotton industry around the world. (200
Words)
NCERT
Ans- Factors that affect the location of an industry can be broadly divided into two
categories 1).Geographical factors
2). Non-geographical factors.
GEOGRAPHICAL FACTORS:
 Land : cheap and easy land acquisition procedures is very important;
 Raw materials: industries tends to be located where there is easy availability of
raw materials
 Power
 Labour
 Transport
 Market
 Water
 climate
NON-GEOGRAPHICAL FACTORS:
 Capital;
 Government policies: investment friendly government attracts industries;
 Insurance , banking facilities and financial institutions;
 Stable economic and political situation.
Factors responsible for the location and growth of cotton industry around the world are:
1.climatic conditions apply much influence on the location of cotton industry. A
considerable humid condition is must otherwise the cotton yarns would break up during
the spinning process. Dry conditions are detrimental to cotton production
2.Raw cotton availability is undoubtedly essential. But with improvement in
transportation and cross border linkages, there has not been much difference in the
prices of raw cotton near the farms and far away. So, it has in certain sense lost much
importance in determining industry location.
3. Cotton industry requires significant power .Therefore it is generally located near
power plants.
4. The textile industry is preferably set up where market is close and easily accessible.
Restrictions and regulation on imports and exports along with duties affect the choice of
location of cotton industry.
All these are the reasons why we see cotton industries concentrated in coastal areas in
India like Mumbai,Tamil Nadu and Gujarat. They provide humid conditions, good
markets and have excellent port facilities. But, no single set of factors are responsible for
cotton industry location globally. Factors in India and Britain with regard to cotton
industry location are significantly different. But factors like power, climate and labour
are key and true for everywhere.

times.
Q) Examine the roots of classical Indian music and its evolution into
major forms. (200 Words)
CCRT
Ans- There are divergent views about the exact roots and origin of classical Indian
music but all of them agree on one single issue that music during it's initial years in
India was closely associated with prevalent tradition, religious customs and celebrations
and it has continued till now also.
However, the origin of classical Indian Music can be traced mainly to:
1. Origin of classical music can be traced to Vedas and popular scriptures. The Sam veda
contained shlokas chanted in form of hymns with certain pitch and tones.
2. Some ancient works like Natyashashtra ,compiled by as a sage called Bharat between
2nd BC to 2nd AC contains six chapters on music. In Matang's Brihaddesi (compiled
between 9th and 10th century AD) Ragas were first named and discussed in details. An
another text , Sangeet Ratnakara compiled by Sarangdev contains 264 ragas.
3. Many ancient rulers were patrons of music . The Gupta monarch Samudra Gupta was
himself an accomplished musician. Jaydev of Orissa, twelveth century ,produced the
Gita Govinda, a brilliant composition of songs set in Ragas on the theme of the love of
Radha and Krishna .In medieval period, sufi and bhakti movement encouraged music.
4. Hindustani classical music can be traced back to the period of the Delhi Sultanate and
to Amir Khusrau(AD 1253-1325) who is believed to have invented the sitar and the tabla
and is said to have introduced new ragas.
Various forms into which Classical Indian Music evolved:

1. Hindustani music(North India music) : founded in north India .Has two main forms,
Khyal and Dhrupad .Sarangi ,harmonium ,tanpura,veena ,sehnai,santoor and tabla etc
are chief musical instruments used.
2.Carnatic music: founded in south India More rhythmical and structured than
Hindustani music.Cheif instruments are veena, mridangam,kanjira,harmonium and
ghatam etc.
Similarity between both: both have 12 notes in a scale .Both accepts the relation between
'Raga' .

times.
Q) Analyse the major differences between Carnatic and Hindustani
classical music forms. (200 Words)
CCRT
Ans- The major differences between Hindustani classical and Carnatic music forms are:
1. Region: Hindustani classical developed in north India and Carnatic in south Indian
2. Influence: Hindustani music has Arab, Persian and Afghan influences while Carnatic
is completely indigenous.
3. Freedom: Artists given freedom to improvise hence variations while Carnatic music
has no such freedom.
4. Substyles: There are substyles hence 'gharanas' present while Carnatic has only one
prescribed style of singing.
5. Instruments: Instruments have an equally important role in Hindustani style while

there is more emphasis on vocal music in Carnatic music. Tabla, sarangi, sitar and
santoor are essential to Hindustani classical while veena, mridangam and mandolin to
Carnatic and flute and violin are common to both.
6. Type: Hindustani has emotional music while Carnatic is intellectual and spiritual.
7. Ragas: Six principle ragas in Hindustani while Cranatic has 72 raga- melakarta
8. Time: Hindustani has specific ragas for specific time while Carnatic does not adhere
to such specifications
Topic: Salient features of world’s physical geography

(including India)
Q) How did Northern Plains of India originate? Describe their
prominent features and their importance to India‟s economy. (200
Words)
NCERT
Ans- Origin:
The great Northern Plains of India are an aggradational surface of great extent formed
after the Himalayas. They are comparatively of recent origin and are believed to have
formed by the filling up of a depression resulting from the uplifting of the Himalayas, by
deposition of sediments brought by swift-flowing Himalayan rivers, originated in
Himalayas.
Features:
The most characteristic feature of the great plains of Northern India is their extreme
horizontality. From the geomorphological aspect there is no difference between the
Indus basin and the Ganga-Brahmaputra basin.
They are classified into four distinct divisions:

1. Bhabar belt: made up of pebbles and boulders, the streams flow underground,
adjacent to foothills
2. Terai belt: composed of new alluvium, region is damped and thickly forested and
receives heavy rainfall throughout the year and has a variety of wildlife.
3. Bangar Belt: composed of old alluvium, forms Gangetic delta, covered by laterite
deposits
4. Khadar Belt: made up of new alluvium of the flood zones.
Economic Importance of Northern Plains:
Northern Plains produces 60% of food in India. It is home to around 65 crore people.
Himalayan forests have several wildlife species, and these forests are also having
species for medicinal use. Agriculture, livestock, power plants, industries and tourism
provide employment to more than half of population in India.
Topic: Salient features of world’s physical geography

(including India)
Q) What are the major differences between Peninsular rivers and the
Himalayan rivers of India? Do you think linking of peninsular rivers
with the Himalayan rivers is a feasible idea? Examine. (200 Words)
NCERT
Ans- Difference:
The Himalayan Rivers rise at high elevations and are fed by the eternal snow of the
Himalayan glaciers. The Deccan Rivers rise at much lower heights in the Western Ghats
and other mountain ranges and are rainfed.
The Himalayan rivers flow through young topography, and as they emanate from great
heights, their erosive power is more. They frequently change course and are
continuously shaping the valleys through which they flow. The peninsular rivers flow
through comparatively more stable land and channels through which they flow have
already reached base levels.
Linking Rivers:
India has 18% of world population, and only 4% of water resources. The river is an
integral part of human settlements, their lives, landscape, society, culture, history and
religion.
Merits of Linking:
1. Large water resources are unevenly distributed so waters can be managed.
2. Flood Control by creating dams, reservoirs, etc possible
3. Power generation is possible, by mini – hydro plants and Solar plants floating of
surface waters.
4. Employment generation, growth in Inland waterways.
Demerits:
1. By spending 50 % of GDP it can take 10 – 15 years in completion, so it will make water
more costly.
2. Loss of Flora and Fauna
3. Thousands of acres land acquisition is practically impossible, it can create human re-
settlement issues, and loss of cultural habitats.
So, though Supreme Court has ordered to inter-link rivers, and government is showing
interest in it, I shall suggest taking enhanced water conservation measures instead of
going forward with river – linking project.

waterbodies and ice-caps)
Q) Write a critical note on river pollution in India and the measures
taken by the Union government to clean polluted rivers. (200 Words)
NCERT
Ans- Rivers, often termed as the arteries of the countries are important source of
Livelihood , habitat to different people organism. However pollution levels has caused
the havoc on life of rivers
Ways of River pollution

~run off from the farms/agri fields, Such contains the Fertilisers causes the
Eutrophication
~Increased level of Chemical also enters the living organism and multiplies causing bio -
magnification
~Various fertilisers which enter the rivers get disturbed by the Deep river fishing ,
causing the articles to move up and causes decreased level of transparency , thus death
of many organism at the bottom
~increased pollution also affect the Health of marine lives
Measures
~ Namami Ganga , Ganga action plan , Maile Yamuna Plan
~Swachh bharat kosh to be exempted from 80G IT 1961
~Removing/penalising the tanneries ,distilleries , who do not follow the water water
disposal procedures
~ New EMLA,NEMA,SEMA which will replace Air ,water act which had various hard
provisions/punishment for polluters seldom used/awarded
~ DBT will ensure fund directly to farmer rather fertiliser subsidy , which will be
efficiently reduced lowering the surface run off
~ Various Codes in plantation like PPC by tea board to ensure safe chemical to be used
in activities of cultivation
~ Use of Solar Powered Insecticides which kill the pests rather fumigating them on
plants ultimately gets mixed to the soil,water->> river.
Arteries shall not be blocked with dumped water as it may cause heart attack to the
centre

times.
Q) Write a note on cultural significance of puppet forms and throw
light on some forms of Southern India. (200 Words)
CCRT
Ans- Puppet derived from word pupa means 'doll' but puppet is no where treated like a
puppet but like a god and stage of puppetry like a universe and its origin has been found
in form of literature " Silappadikaaram " puppetry is not only part of entertainment but
also used to motivate emotionally and physically handicaped students , brought many
awareness programmes about natural and cultural environment, communication
through them help in development of personality of child , spread of ramayana ,
mahabharata and some puranic literatures with help of puppetry which marked its
significance in wide range . Presentation of puppetry on basis of its usage divided it into
four forms namely string, shadow, rod and glove puppets.
Some forms of south india :
Gombeyatta : A string puppet form of karnataka , designed like characters in
yakshagana and puppets are highly stylized and have joints at the legs, shoulders,
elbows, hips and knees which makes them to use in complicated movements.
Bommalattam : Poupular in tamil nadu and it is combination of both rod and string
puppets. They are made of wood and the strings for manipulation are tied to an iron ring
which the puppeteer wears like a crown on his head. Puppet may be as big as 4.5 feet in
height weighing about ten kilograms which makes heaviest of all puppetry forms.
Tholu Bommalata : Shadow puppetry from andhra pradesh , unique feature of this form
is they are coloured on both sides and it makes puppets throw coloured shadows on the
screen.
Pavakoothu: A glove puppetry of kerala , came into existence due to influence of
kathakali and the face of the puppets are decorated with paints, small and thin pieces of
gilded tin, the feathers of the peacock makes unique to this form , themes are mostly
based on Ramayana or Mahabharata.
Puppetry not only spotted in southern states but as connected to whole country which
makes our culture more colourful in different forms with its unique blends

Q) The potential of tourism industry in India remains untapped
despite efforts made by successive governments since
independence. Suggest what proactive measures are needed to revive
this sector. (200 Words)
Business Standard
Ans- India has a vast tourism potential ranging from Himalayas, beaches of Goa and
Kerala , Spiritual places , Buddhist places and many more.
But this vast potential has been untapped for many reasons:
1) Cleanliness: Cleanliness is a main concern for the foreign tourists coming from west
and many of the tourist places are not clean. With Swachh Bharat Abhiyan we need to
focus on cleanliness which will attract the tourists.
2)Safety and Security: Safety and security of tourists has been a problem in India.
Many times there are incidents happened with foreign travellers which put India in bad
light and it has impacted the tourism badly. We need to provide security and safety to
tourists. We need rapid action teams in tourist places, 24*7 helplines.
3)Hospitality: In Hospitality India has good reputation but many times it has been
seen the tourists are looted and not behaved with properly.
Hospitality industry always face problem with taxes and we need to make
comprehensive tourism policy.
4)Language Problem: Many tourist face the problem of interacting at tourists sites
due to english which should be the common language has not penetrated well.We need
to sort out this language problem by providing skills to people by trainings etc and
behaviour classes.
5)India's Image : There are many incidents that keep happening in India which
deteoriate the India's image related to communalism, rapes etc.
We need to work on bettering India's reputation which has gone down and this can be
bettered with the help of all communities.
6)E-Services-E-Visas, e-ticketing , portals , single window systems will definitely help
India and they need to be enhanced.
7)Social Awareness campaigns: There are many campaigns run by ministries to
make people aware of the impact of bad and good behavior with tourists , television can
be used for that.
8) NorthEastern Region- Connectivity on NE region needs to be enhanced and needs
to be bettered. This region has enormous potential which is yet not tapped for tourism
If all the above steps are taken in a comprehensive manner, we will be able to help
tourism industry and it will also help India earning lot of revenue and increasing the
income of many households.

Q) It is analysed that by 1907, the Moderate nationalists had
exhausted their historical role in India‟s struggle against colonialism.
Examine why did moderates fail and with what consequences. (200
Words)
Bipan Chandra, Struggle for India‘s Independence, Chapter – 11
Ans- By 1907 there emerged a clear ridge between moderates and extremists that
ultimately led to split in congress in its Surat session.
Reasons for failure of moderates-

1. pray, petition and protest type of politics could not turn to be effective.
2. political awareness (including about drain theory) had been on rise in people
3. bengal was divided against the will and wish of people.
4. vandemataram movement, irrespective of its intensity turned to be deaf ears.
5. people like savarkar brothers and chapekar brothers started advocating extremism.
6. moderates remained distant from masses hence their mass appeal remained
ineffective.
7. emergence of leaders like Tilak in congress led to new kind of environment that is
more favorable to the extremists.
8. youth element in vandemataram movement paves way for extremism.
consequences-
1. turmoil with in congress was witnessed since 1906 on wards.
2. swaraj demand was passed in line of demands of extremists.
3. congress was split in 1907's surat session.
4. moderates moved distant away from active politics due to various reasons.
5. exploiting the situation the British government arrested extremist elements like tilak.
6. congress turned to be ineffective and remained as it was till 1916's lucknow session.
7. this political vaccume led to emergence of nationalist terrorism.
Even if the moderates moved away from mainstream politics the flames that they had
ignited by then, led to a new kind of environment that facilitated continuance of
national movement.
Topic:The Freedom Struggle – its various stages and important

Q) Do you think the Ghadarite movement was a failure considering
they could not fulfill the objectives of their movement? Critically
comment. (200 Words)
Ans- Success or failure of a movement will not always measured by its achievement or
by its objectives .But by the deepening of nationalist consciousness , testing new
strategies, secularism , egalitarianism and time bound executions of activities had
contributed their share to freedom struggle which motivated further struggles which
took place.
Some of the happenings in the movement:
1) Ghadar , word itself is very clear without any doubts in heads of people that meant "
Revolt" and published as a weekly paper for free circulation which consists of Chittha (
14 points) describing the harmful effects of british rule and even ended with the
solutions to ignite the struggle.
2) Movement shows its secular nature in every aspect by issuing its first copy in urdu ,
adopted bande mataram as rallying slogan in movement( though sikh community higher
in movement) , Acceptance of Rash behari bose as leader.
3) Independent india , objective of ghadar has been seen in each and every movement by
them and exposing struggle to different parts of world by Har dayal is happend first time
in history by giving references to german , mexican , etc.
4) Ghadarites further they themselves transformed into communists and peasant
leaders helped india in forwarding their struggle towards independence.
Because of underestimation of british's strength , lack of organizational structure ,
Inconsistency of sustained leadership , Failure can be seen in hanging of ghadarities
who were sentenced and many were life termed , but the success can be seen in every
leader who struggled for independence and made it happend.

Q) The Home Rule League Movement, led by Lokamanya Tilak and
Annie Besant, was less charged but more effective compared to other
movements of the time. Examine how and why. (200 Words)
Ans- The Home Rule League had more impact on Indian national movement than
contemporary movements like Gadhar. It brought a major transition in the objective of
the movement. Earlier, the objectives were greater role for Indians in the institutions of
state in moderate phase. The Home Rule movement, put Swaraj only the objective to be
pursued by the movement and not less than that.
The Congress under moderate phase was not willing to expand the organisational reach
and strength. The moderates opposed braches of Congress in village level and mohalla
level. The Home Rule movement, independently expanded , even to the remote places.
These organisational capacity is the major achievement of Home Rule league. Due to its
reach, many new sections of the people came into contact with politics through library
movements and magazines. These people got aware of ill effects of the colonialism. It
helps in strengthening the notion of "we are Indians". These strengths were later
exploited by Gandhian Phase.
The Home Rule movement has less charge i.e., direct confrontation with the colonial
government, than other movements like Gadhar. It happened only when Besant was put
under house arrest. On the other hand, Gadhar movement was localised to few
provinces like Bengal, Punjab and involved few sections with lot of revolutionary zeal,
but couldn't be done openly.
Thus, the Home rule league made great transitions in terms of objectives and
organisational strength of the national movement and national building.
Topic: Salient features of Indian Society

Q) With suitable examples, critically comment on the role of popular
cinema and media in influencing opinion and perception of common
man about women in India. (200 Words)
The Hindu
The Hindu
The Hindu
Ans- Cinema-
positive impact- Certain movies with women as lead, are improving confidence among
women. recent movie "Mary Kom" is an example for that. But the number of such
movies is limited.
negative- women are shown as glamour dolls. Sexy comments and so called item songs
are again a bit problematic as they derogate the dignity of women. Scenes like rape are
also not uncommon in our movies.
media-
positive impact- media creates awareness with regards to women rights. It reports about
violations of such things. It also surfaces lay downs in this regard and creates a platform
for women oriented debates as well.
negative impact- on the way to make its profits media sensationalize issues like rape
and other things. some entertainment channels broadcast unnecessary rumors about
intimate relations. Recent issue like "deepika padukone dress furore" is an example for
that.
Thus both media and cinema are having a mixed impact and influence on the minds of
people. Both media and cinema should be more responsible while they are dealing with
women issues. After all, women are still vulnerable in our society.

(including South Asia and the Indian subcontinent) (this topic
can be linked to several topics between Papers 1,2 and 3)
Q) Discuss why the Indian Ocean is considered as critical to the future
of the world and India. (200 Words)
The Indian Express
Ans- The only ocean of the world name after a Country is ―Indian Ocean‖.
Importance of Indian Ocean to World:
1. 70 percent of world trade from West to East and East to West.

2. Oil trade from Middle east to China, Japan, India, SE Asian countries
3. Polly metallic nodules at Ocean floor provide vital metals extraction sources from
ocean.
4. Western powers involvement in security management against radical and
fundamentalist Islamic groups in and around Iraq.
5. All the sea lanes leading to the Indian Ocean, particularly the Suez Canal and the
Straits of Malacca be kept open at all the times.
Importance of Indian Ocean to India:
1.7,500km coastline linking to Indian Ocean

2. 80% of India‘s trade is through Sea route passes through Indian Ocean.
3. 85% of oil and gas imported through Indian Ocean into the country.
4. Fishing and tourism depends on it due to huge marine re-courses it spreads
prosperity in coastal plains of India.
5. Security of Country after 26/11 and recent 1st January‘2015 (mid-sea blast of
fishing boat incident). No industrial development, commercial growth, and stable
political structure is possible unless our nation‘s shores are protected.
6. Vital for managing better relation with neighbours like Vietnam, ,
Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Sri-Lanka, Maldives, Seychelles, Mauritius,
Iran, etc.
To, maintain safer trade routes, and induce Energy Security for every party, India
has recently pitched to declare Indian Ocean Region as "Region of Peace" at Galle
dialogue (2014-Sri-Lanka), which provides enough reason that Indian Ocean is critical
to India and the world.
Topic: ; factors responsible for the location of primary,

Q) As per recent news reports, the sugar industry of Uttar Pradesh is
in deep crises. Critically examine the roots of these crises and
comment on them. (200 Words)
Business Standard
Ans- Along with Cuba india is among the largest sugar producing country in the world.
Uttarpradesh & Maharashtra are the largest sugar producing states.Nowadays Sugar
producing industries in Uttarpradesh are
suffering from industrial sickness . Following are the reasons for it.
1]Most of the sugar industries are under the political clutuhes.So absense of any
administrative and techmical expertise
2]Most of the sugar industry in UP are 50 year old. So using outdated machinery which
causes low production and Low profit
3] 1/3 of cane production is used for making Gur and Khandsari .This lead to shortage of
rawmaterial for producing sugar
4] Large amount of small sugar factories with very much less capacity .This leads to less
amount of production.Profit earning capacity reduced
5]High amount of taxes imposed by Central and state government
6]Less budgetary allocation
7] Bagasse and molasses are the byproduct of sugar industries.Problem faced by sugar
industry to dispose this waste especially underpollutuin control norm
8]Frequent strikes by farmers and political organisation restrains future prospective

entrepreneurs which also effect infusion of capital
9] Crushingperiod are between 5 to 7 months . Rest of the period mill and workers sits
idle .This again create finanacial problem.
10]Absense of infrastructure.Today also most of the Cane is transported through

bullockcart which lead to loss of sucrose content.
11]peninsular india has tropical climate which gives more production of sugarcane as
compared to northindia
12]Rangrajan Panel suggestion are not implemented in uttarpradesh
Topic:Geography of India
Q) Write a note on the factors that control climate of India. Also
explain the origin of monsoon rains in layman terms. (200 Words)
NCERT
Ans- India is not only unique to its diversity, culture and history but also to its
geographic and climatic features which makes more special.
Factors that control climate of India:
- Countries location and its Latitude: Where Tropic of cancer divides India into half
which has high impact on climate.
- Countries Physiography & Mountain systems: Prevention of cold in north& blocking of
rain to southern states in south.
- Continentality effects : coastal areas experience less contrast in temp conditions
compared to landlocked ones
- Monsoon winds ,air circulations and western disturbances : Gives gifted rainy season
and westerly & easterly jet streams
- Ocean currents
- Southern oscillations ( El nino and la nina )
Origin of monsoons :
India being the middle of Arabian sea and Bay of Bengal there was higher chances of
rain in form of onset and retreating monsoons.
Onset of monsoon: By heating the land in summer season because of ITCZ shift, low
pressure created above northern plains which attracts trade winds in southern
hemisphere from southwest direction from Arabian sea and even from Bay of Bengal
they both merge together on northern plains and turn back by hitting lofty mountains
Retreating monsoon: By oct-nov low which begins in north western states where low
pressure region replaces by high pressure and results in withdrawal of monsoon .
Topic: Population and associated issues,

Q) What are the significant features of the National Population Policy
2000? Evaluate how effective this policy has been in meeting its
objectives. (200 Words)
NCERT
Ans- India accounts for its second place in highest population in world and this made
India to launch National family planning programme in 1952 , though the birth rate
started decreasing , death rate also decreased sharply which led to overall increase in
population. Here by where parliament brought National population policy in 2000.
Features of NPP
Address the unmet needs for contraception; health care infrastructure and personnel
and to provide integrated service delivery for basic reproductive and child health care;
Reduce IMR,MMR, TFR by certain levels ; Prevent and control communicable diseases;
free and compulsory school education up to 14 years of age ; promoting delayed
marriage for girls ; promote small family norm .
Effectiveness of policy seen in measures adopted by govt

Right to Education under Article 21A: With the help of 84 th constitutional amendment
seizing in state wide allocations of seats in loksabha and rajyasabha till 2026 where it
would serve as motivational measure to put blockade to population explosion ;National
Population Stabilization Fund was setup to meet the demands ; Programmes like ICDS ,
Midday meal , National rural health mission , janani suraksha yojana ; Free
contraceptives & sterilization methods , Recent success in polio immunization .
There were still failures in Reducing IMR and Fertility rates, death of women in
chattisgarh due to faulty sterilization and some other objectives failing to achieve in
rural areas . Accomplishing the objectives merely in quantitative terms shows success
only in numericals but if met in qualitative terms and with strict implementation it will
satisfy the demands to its fullest to the human needs

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2015

General Studies Paper-1:Insights Secure Compilation

Q) ―…India as a repository of countless performing arts, local health practices, indigenous

Topic: Women issues; Women Empowerment ................................................................................ 75

Topic: Social empowerment

The causes for this include-

Topic: Salient features of the Indian Society;

Social discrimination on the lines of caste is considered to be a crime and redressal

Topic: Salient features of the Indian Society;

This was laid out in Nehru's Tribal Panchsheel policy:

Topic: Salient features of the Indian Society;

Impact on rural areas-

Impact on agrarian structures-

Topic: Salient features of Indian Society, Diversity of India;

Topic: Salient features of Indian Society, Diversity of India;

Topic: Communalism, Regionalism & Secularism;

Topic: Communalism, Regionalism & Secularism;

Q) Indian secularism is considered as pseudo-secularism by certain

Topic: Communalism, Regionalism & Secularism;

British introduce some controversial reforms like Communal and Minority

So, when principally, independence was discuss before formation of constituent

Topic: Population and associated issues;

Measures that can be adopted by government to stabilise population at faster pace:

(3.) Mechanising agriculture, increasing productivity of agriculture and shifting more

Reasons for difference in Fertility rate across states:

(4.) Government intention to address population.

Topic: Poverty and associated issues;

Topic: Population and associated issues;

Topic: Social empowerment;

1. Forest Rights Act, 2006:

Topic: World wars, Redrawl of national boundaries;

Topic: Post-independence consolidation and

Fact of the matter:

The reasons of 1990s Uprising

1) Pak support and massive infiltration.

3) Arm and fighters from Afghanistan

4) US and PAK. supported uprising, even then US ambassador openly supported

6) Influence and motivation from USSR disintegration.

Solution to Kashmir problem: Being a nationalist, i stick to unilateral solution

2) Along with this go for more development.

Topic: Distribution of key natural resources across the world

Topic: factors responsible for the location of primary,

4. Banking infrastructure : financial inclusion, availability of car loans has helped.

5. Improved infrastructure : development of roads, highways (golden quadrilateral)

8. The Government technology modernization fund is concentrating on establishing

There is also increasing domestic demand:

Topic: factors responsible for the location of primary,

Location pattern and Trend of productions for Forest goods are:

Nearness to Consumption centre, Good transport, Availability of raw material which is

Tendu leaves/Tobacco/Bidi Industries;

Sports Goods Industries:

Topic: poverty and developmental issues

Topic: poverty and developmental issues

Economic development is improving the economy for benefit of humans by various

If I am posted as District Collector, I will take following measures for sustainable

1. Will Encourage Organic Farming, agro-forestry, and production of Bio-fuels in

Topic: Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of Art

2. Medical practices of Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Yoga and Naturopathy

4. Indigenous knowledge systems like tribal knowledge on medicines, coastal

and promoted. It is commitment on part of government and responsibility on part of

Topic: History of the world

Topic: changes in critical geographical features (including

3. Ocean Acidification: An exponential increase in the net amount of CO2 being