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UPSC Mains PYQs

1053 questions

Every General Studies question since 2013, ready to attempt. Model answers arrive week by week.

2023

  1. 2023 · GS2 · 15 markse-governance as a critical tool of governance, has ushered in effectiveness, transparency and accountability in governments. What inadequacies hamper the enhancement of these features.
  2. 2023 · GS2 · 15 marksThe expansion and strengthening of NATO and a stronger US-Europe strategic partnership works well for India. What is your opinion about this statement? Give reasons and examples to support your answer.
  3. 2023 · GS2 · 15 marksIndian diaspora has scaled new heights in the west. Describe its economic and political benefits for India.
  4. 2023 · GS2 · 15 marksDiscuss the role of the Competition Commission of India in containing the abuse of dominant position by the Multi-National Corporations in India. Refer to the recent decisions.
  5. 2023 · GS2 · 10 marksDiscuss the role of presiding officers of state legislatures in maintaining order and impartiality in conducting legislative work and in facilitating best democratic practices.
  6. 2023 · GS2 · 15 marksSea is an important component of the Cosmos’. Discuss in the light of the above statement the role of the IMO (International Maritime Organisation) in protecting environment and enhancing maritime safety and security.
  7. 2023 · GS2 · 10 marksExplain the significance of the 101st constitutional amendment act. To what extent does it reflect the accommodative spirit of federalism.
  8. 2023 · GS2 · 15 marksSkill development programmes have succeeded in increasing human resources supply to various sectors. In the context of the statement analyse the linkages between, education, skill and employment.
  9. 2023 · GS2 · 10 marksThe states in India seem reluctant to empower urban local bodies both functionally as well as financially. Comment.
  10. 2023 · GS2 · 10 marksExplain the structure of the Parliamentary Committee system. How far have the financial committee helped in the institutionalisation of Indian Parliament.
  11. 2023 · GS2 · 15 marks“Virus of conflict is affecting the functioning of the SCO”. In the light of the above statement point out the role of India in mitigating the problems.
  12. 2023 · GS2 · 10 marksWho are entitled to receive free legal aid in India. Assess the role of NALSA in rendering free legal aid in India.

2022

  1. 2022 · GS2 · 15 marksHow will 12U2 (India, Israel, UAE and USA) grouping transform India’s position in global politics?
  2. 2022 · GS2 · 15 marksDo you agree with the view that increasing dependence on donor agencies for development reduces the importance of community participation in the development process? Justify your answer.
  3. 2022 · GS2 · 15 marksBesides the welfare schemes, India needs deft management of inflation and unemployment to serve the poor and the underprivileged sections of the society. Discuss.
  4. 2022 · GS2 · 15 marksClean energy is the order of the day.’ Describe briefly India’s changing policy towards climate change in various international fora in the context of geopolitics.
  5. 2022 · GS2 · 15 marksDiscuss the essential conditions for exercise of the legislative powers by the Governor. Discuss the legality of re-promulgation of ordinances by the Governor without placing them before the Legislature.
  6. 2022 · GS2 · 10 marksTo what extent, in your opinion, as the decentralisation of power in India changed the governance landscape at the grassroots?
  7. 2022 · GS2 · 10 marksThe Gati-Shakti Yojana needs meticulous coordination between the government and the private sector to achieve the goal of connectivity. Discuss.
  8. 2022 · GS2 · 10 marksIndia is an age-old friend of Sri Lanka.’ Discuss India’s role in the recent crisis in Sri Lanka in the light of the preceding statement.
  9. 2022 · GS2 · 10 marks“The most significant achievement of modern law in India is the constitutionalization of environmental problems by the Supreme Court.” Discuss this statement with the help of relevant case laws.
  10. 2022 · GS2 · 15 marksDiscuss the procedures to decide the disputes arising out of the election of a Member of the Parliament or State Legislature under The Representation of the People Act, 1951. What are the grounds on which the election of any returned candidate may be declared void? What remedy is available to the aggrieved party against the decision? Refer to the case laws.
  11. 2022 · GS2 · 15 marksCritically examine the procedures through which the Presidents of India and France are elected.
  12. 2022 · GS2 · 10 marksReforming the government delivery system through the Direct Benefit Transfer Scheme is a progressive step, but it has its limitations too. Comment.

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