List of Keywords

General Studies Paper 1

Indian Heritage and culture, History and Geography of the world and
society

Topic 1: Art & Culture - Salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature and Architecture from ancient
to modern times

Key concepts: Architecture – Forts – Palaces – Temple Architecture – Nagara – Vesara – Dravida -
Caves – Ajanta – Ellora – Elephanta – Cave Paintings – Mosques – Arches – Domes - Public Buildings
– Charles Corbusier - Sculptor – Indus Valley Civilization – Pashupati – Nataraja – Tandava -
Ashokan – Buddhist - Pillars & Stupa – Indo-Greek – Mathura – Gandhara – Amravati – Gupta Period
Sculptor – Delhi Sultanate - Evolution of Coinage – Gupta numismatic art - Gupta Sculptor in South
Indian Temples & Caves – Mahabalipuram – Chola Temples – Paintings – Pre-historic paintings –
Petroglyphs – Mesolithic Paintings – Chalcolithic Paintings – Pottery Paintings in Indus Valley
Civilization – Vedic Age – Indo Greeks Period – Mural Paintings – Ajanta Ellora – Haathi Gumpha –
Medieval Period Paintings – Miniature Paintings – Palas – Arabesque – Regional Schools of Painting –
Maithili – Manjusha – Kalamkari – Kalighat – Phad – Worli – Batik – Tanjavur – Mysore Paintings -
Mughal Paintings – Portrait – Miniature – Narrative Paintings – Rajput School – Pahari School – Indian
Renaissance - Company School of Paintings – Bengal Renaissance – Nationalist School of Paintings –
Raja Ravi Verma – Qubic Style – M F Hussain – Modern Art – Performing Arts – Dance – Classical
– Folk – Martial Arts - Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kathakali, Kuchipudi, Odissi, Sattriya, Manipuri,
Mohiniyattam – Music – Hindustani – Carnatic – Gharana Tradition – Lucknow – Gwalior – Darbhanga
– Kirana – Instruments – String Based – Wind Instruments – Drum - Dholak – Mridang – Veena –
Tabla – Santoor - Theatre – National School of Drama – Yakshgan – Nautanki – Rasleela – Bhand –
Pather – Jatra - Puppetry – Gloves – Rod – String – Shadow Puppetry - Literature – Vedic Literature
– Sangam Literature – Bhakti Literature - Early & Later – Buddhist Lit. – Jain Lit. Accounts of Travelers
– Chinese - Fa-Hein – Megasthenes – Hein Tsang - Continuity of Indian Culture – Sangam Era – Arab
Travelers – Al-Beruni – Ibn Battuta – Minhaz Siraj – Court Historians – Navratnas – Tansen – Amir
Khusro – Abul Fazl – Abdul Badayuni – European Travelers – Francis Bernier - Vasco De Gama –
Marco Polo – Nicolo Conti – Abdul Razzaq – Barbosa – Father Monserrat – Ralphfich – Captain
Hawkins – Schools of Philosophy – Astika – Nastika – Charvaka – Jain – Buddha – Samkhya – Ajivikas
– Mimamsa – Vedanta – Nayaya – Yoga – Samkhya – Vaisheshika – Advait – Shankaracharya – Bhakti
Philosophy – Medieval Times – Kabir – Guru Nanak – “Vasudhaiv Kutumbakam” – Architecture of
Modern Cities – Chandigarh – Le Corbusier – Lessons in Planning from Ancient India.

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Topic 2: Modern History: Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth
century until the present- significant events, personalities, issues. The Freedom Struggle —
its various stages and important contributors/contributions from different parts of the
country.

Modern History: Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century
until 1905: Advent of Europeans – Portuguese – Contribution – Causes of Failure- French – Carnatic
Wars – Why they failed against the British? - Battle of Panipat – British and Native States – Battle of
Plassey – Buxar – Anglo – Marathas – Anglo – Punjab – Sindh Conquest - Establishment of British rule
in India - British policies and its impact – Land Revenue System – Permanent Settlement – Mahalwari
– Ryotwari – Commercialization of Agriculture – Development of Civil Services – Police – Education
– Press – Famine Commissions - De-industrialization – Railways – Local Self Government –
Constitutional Developments – Regulating Act 1773,1784 – Charter Acts – Government of India Act
1858,1909,1919,1935 – Indian Councils Act 1861,1892 - Religious and social reform movements and
their impact – Growth of art, literature and modern press in India – Major Social reforms - Indian
Renaissance - Raja Ram Mohan Roy – Ishvar Chandra Vidyasagar - Caste movements in south India &
Maharashtra - Reforms of Cornwallis, Wellesley, Hasting, William Bentick, Dalhousie - Revolt of 1857
, causes and consequences – Rise of Indian Nationalism – Drain Theory – Early political movements
and Indian National Congress – Moderates – Extremists - Role of Lytton, Ripon and Curzon - Rise of
extremism – Swadeshi and Boycott movement in India – Split in Congress and rise of revolutionary
terrorism - Morley-Minto reforms and formation of Muslim League - Modern Indian history from
1905 until independence: Gandhi in South Africa – Role of Gandhi in eradication of Indentured
slavery system - Return of Mahatma Gandhi - Gandhian Philosophy – Satyagraha - His ideas on
Communalism, Trusteeship, Socialism, Means and Ends – Relevance of Gandhian ideas in present times
– Gandhi vs Nehru, Gandhi vs Tagore, Gandhi vs Ambedkar, Gandhi vs Subhash – Role of Women in
Gandhian movements –Why Gandhi was successful - Champaran, Ahmedabad and Kheda Movement
– Gadhar Movement – Home rule movement and its impact – Role of Foreigners in National Movement
–Influence of foreign events on Indian National movement - Non-cooperation movement and Khilafat
movement – Gandhi vs Jinnah on Khilafat Issue - Montague Chelmsford reforms 1919 – Swarajists –
Rise of Left – Congress Socialist Party – Communists – JLN, Subhash Bose influence – Peasant
movements in India - Rise of communalism and its dangerous effects - Simon Commission – Lahore
Congress, from Swaraj to complete independence – Civil disobedience movement – Round table
conferences – Poona Pact – Constitutional development, Government of India Act 1935 - 28-month
congress rule – National movement during world war – Individual Satyagraha – August Offer – Cripps
Proposal - Quit India Movement – Wavell Plan – Rajaji’s Formula – INA Trials – RIN Mutiny - National
upsurge after second world war – Tebhaga Movement - Formation of Interim government –
Constituent Assembly - Wavell Breakdown Plan – Mountbatten Plan – Menon Plan – Independence of
India Act,1947 – Partition and Communal Violence.

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Topic 3: Post-Independence: Post-independence consolidation and reorganization within the
country.

Post-Independence India: Key words: Challenges before Indian Democracy - Impact and Legacy
of Colonial Rule - Integration of Princely States - Linguistic State Formation and Issue of National and
Official Language - Integration of Tribal – North Eastern – Challenges - Regionalism and Regional
Inequality - Tribal Panchsheel - Land and Agriculture reforms - Zamindari Abolition - Tenancy Reforms
(Operation Barga) - Land Ceilings; The Bhoodan Movement & Gramdan Movement – Recent land
reforms - Green Revolution & Green Revolution - Foreign Policy, NAM and Relations with countries
- International role - Indo China war – Indira Gandhi: Inner party struggle and congress split, Bangladesh
Challenge,1971 and Indo- Pak War - Shimla Agreement,1972 – Emergency: cause and consequences -
Separatist movement: Kashmir, Punjab, North East - Women movements – Environmental movements
in Post-Independence – Dalit Politics – Development of Science – New Farmer Movement

Topic 4: World History: History of the world will include events from 18th century such as
industrial revolution, world wars, redrawal of national boundaries, colonization,
decolonization, political philosophies like communism, capitalism, socialism etc.— their
forms and effect on the society.

World History: Events from 18th century till world war I: Keywords: Renaissance – Age of
Enlightenment - Industrial Revolution – Causes & Consequences – IR in Britain, Japan, Russia, India -
Impact on India - Emergence of new ideologies like capitalism, communism, socialism - American
revolution and civil war – American Constitution - British Mercantilism - French revolution - Rise and
fall of Napoleon - Vienna Congress - Rise of Nation states – Rise of Socialism – Communism – 1st
International – 2nd International – Workers Movement - unification of Germany and Italy - Balkan Wars
- Imperialism and colonization- World war- cause and consequence, Treaty of Versailles - League of
Nations - Russian revolution, cause and consequence - Lenin’s New Economic Policy – Stalin's
Economic policies – Great Depression and the New Deal Events from world war I and onwards:
Keywords: Rise of Nazism and Hitler in Germany – Role of Hitler in WWII – Policy of appeasement
- Rise of Fascism in Italy - Japanese imperialism - Chinese revolution – Spanish Revolution - World war
II- cause and consequences - Decolonization and achievement of freedom by nations (from 18th
century onwards) - West Africa – Indonesia – Apartheid – Malay Peninsula - Cold war and bipolar
world – Cuban Missile Crisis - Afro-Asian unity and Non- alignment - Arab Nationalism - Palestine and
Israel-Arab conflict - fall of USSR – Gorbachev’s policies - Fall of Berlin Wall - Gulf wars - Iranian
revolution - Afghan Invasion – European Union – Formation and new challenges.

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Topic 5: Indian Society: Salient features of Indian Society, Diversity of India. Role of women
and women’s organization, population and associated issues, poverty and developmental
issues, urbanization, their problems and their remedies. Effects of globalization on Indian
society. Social empowerment, communalism, regionalism & secularism.

Key Concepts: Salient Features of Indian Society – Issues related to: Religion, communalism and
secularism - Family - Caste system and caste based discrimination - Marriage and divorce - Print, digital
and social media - Education - Women and gender based discrimination – Children - Senior citizen –
Disabled – Youth- Urban Population and Rural population - Tribal - Impact of globalization on all
social groups – Regionalism - Pluralism and Diversity of language, culture, food, institutions etc. -
Women empowerment: social reforms, women organizations and SHGs – Population: age structure,
literacy, sex ratio – Poverty and poverty line - Inequalities and exclusions - Social cause of poverty –
Poverty alleviation initiatives.

Topic 6: Physical Geography: Salient features of world’s physical geography.

Topic 8: Geophysical Phenomena: Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes,
Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc., geographical features and their location-changes
in critical geographical features (including water-bodies and ice-caps) and in flora and fauna
and the effects of such changes.

Geomorphology: Interior of the earth - Continental drift theory - Plate tectonic theory - Landform
development in karst regions, arid region, glacial region - Landforms development due to fluvial, Aeolian
and glacial action - Endogenic and Exogenic forces - Formation of fold mountains and island arcs -
Volcanism and related landforms - Earthquakes and tsunami. Cryosphere.
Oceanography: Temperature and salinity of the oceans - Ocean currents - Waves and tides - Coral
reefs and coral bleaching - EL NINO and ENSO - Sea level change - Ocean acidification – Mineral
Reserves – Deep Sea Mining - Challenges
Climatology: Composition and structure of atmosphere - Temperature and pressure belts of the
world - Atmospheric circulation- Planetary and local winds - Monsoon and jet streams - Air masses
and air front - Tropical cyclones - Temperate cyclones - Heat budget - Climate change - Urban climate
– Ozone Depletion
Biogeography: Soils: types and locations; Major biomes of the world: tropical rainforest, temperate
forests, Savanah grasslands, temperate grasslands, Desert biome, Monsoon and Mediterranean biome
- Wetlands- Mangrove vegetation. Contemporary issues.

Topic 7/ Human and Economic Geography: Distribution of key natural resources across the
world (including South Asia and the Indian sub-continent); factors responsible for the
location of primary, secondary, and tertiary sector industries in various parts of the world
(including India).

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Human and Economic Geography: Distribution of key natural resources across the world
(including South Asia and the Indian sub-continent): Minerals: Iron, Aluminum, Manganese, Lead, Zinc,
Copper, Uranium, Rare earth metals – Energy resources: Coal, Oil and natural Gas – non-conventional
energy resources: Coal bed methane, Shale gas etc. - Renewable Energy resources: Solar energy, wind
energy, geothermal etc.
Factors responsible for the location of primary, secondary, and tertiary sector industries in various
parts of the world (including India): Iron and steel, Automobile, Cotton, Fertilizer, Pharmaceuticals etc.
Indian Agriculture. Population and settlement geography: growth, distribution and demographic
attributes - demographic dividend- Urbanization, Migration – problems in urbans and rural areas –
Slums - Urban sprawl – Urban Infrastructure-Industrial Corridors.
Geopolitics. Space.

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Indian Art and Culture Previous Year Questions (PYQs) |
UPSC Mains Examination
forumias.com/blog/art-culture-pyq-previous-year-questions-upsc-mains-examination/

On this page, you will find all Indian art and culture PYQs (Previous year’s questions) for
UPSC mains of IAS examination.

The UPSC Mains syllabus includes a specific section on “Indian art and Culture,”
highlighting the importance of this topic in the examination. Questions related to art, culture,
and heritage are often asked in General Studies Paper I.

Q.1) Explain the role of geographical factors towards the development of Ancient India [150
words] [10 Marks] [2023]

Q.2) What are the main features of Vedic society and religion? Do you think some of the
features are still prevailing in Indian society? [250 words][15 Marks] [2023]

Q.3) What were the major technological changes introduced during the Sultanate period?
How did those technological changes influence the Indian society? [250 words][15 Marks]
[2023]

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Q.4) How will you explain the medieval Indian temple sculptures represent the social life of
those days? [150 words] [10 Marks] [2022]

Q.5) Discuss the main contributions of Gupta period and Chola period to Indian heritage and
culture.[250 words][15 Marks] [2022]

Q.6) Discuss the significance of the lion and bull figures in Indian mythology, art and
architecture. [250 words][15 Marks][2022]

Q.7) Evaluate the nature Of the Bhakti literature and its contribution to Indian culture.[150
Words] [10 Marks] [2021]

Q.8) The rock-cut architecture represents one of the most important sources of our
knowledge of early Indian art and history. Discuss.[150 Words] [10 Marks] [2020]

Q.9) Pala period is the most significant phase in the history of Buddhism in India, Enumerate.
[150 Words] [10 Marks] [2020]

Q.10) Indian Philosophy and tradition played a significant role in conceiving and shaping the
monuments and their art in India. Discuss.[250 Words] [15 Marks] [2020]

Q.11) Persian Literary sources of medieval India reflect the spirit of the age. Comment.[250
Words] [15 Marks] [2020]

Q.12) Highlight the Central Asian and Greco-Bactrian elements in the Gandhara art.[150
Words] [10 Marks] [2019]

Q.13) Safeguarding the Indian art heritage is the need of the moment. Discuss.[150 Words]
[10 Marks] [2018]

Q.14) Assess the importance of the accounts of the Chinese and Arab travellers in the
reconstruction of the history of India.[150 Words] [10 Marks] [2018]

Q.15) The Bhakti Movement received a remarkable re-orientation with the advent of Sri
Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. Discuss.[250 Words] [15 Marks] [2018]

Q.16) How do you justify the view that the level of the excellence of the Gupta numismatic art
is not at all noticeable in later times?[150 Words] [10 Marks] [2017]

Q.17) The spirit of tolerance and love is not only an interesting feature of Indian society from
very early times, but it is also playing an important part at the present. Elaborate.[250 Words]
[15 Marks] [2017]

Q.18) Early Buddhist Stupa-art, while depicting folk motifs and narratives, successfully
expounds Buddhist ideals. Elucidate.[200 Words] [12.5 Marks] [2016]

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Q.19) Krishnadeva Raya, the king of Vijayanagar, was not only an accomplished scholar
himself but was also a great patron of learning and literature. Discuss.[200 Words] [12.5
Marks] [2016]

Q.20) The ancient civilisation in Indian sub-continent differed from those of Egypt,
Mesopotamia and Greece in that its culture and traditions have been preserved without a
breakdown to present day. Comment.[200 Words] [12.5 Marks] [2015]

Q.21) Mesolithic rock cut architecture of India not only reflects the cultural life of the times
but also a fine aesthetic sense comparable to modern painting. Critically evaluate this
comment.[200 Words] [12.5 Marks] [2015]

Q.22) To what extent has the urban planning and culture of the Indus Valley Civilization
provided inputs to the present-day urbanization? Discuss.[150 Words] [10 Marks] [2014]

Q.23) Gandhara sculpture owed as much to the Romans as to the Greeks. Explain.[150
Words] [10 Marks] [2014]

Q.24) Taxila university was one of the oldest universities of the world with which were
associated a number of renowned learned personalities of different disciplines. Its strategic
location caused its fame to flourish, but unlike Nalanda, it is not considered as a university in
the modern sense. Discuss.[150 Words] [10 Marks] [2014]

Q.25) The third battle of Panipat was fought in 1761. Why were so many empire-shaking
battles fought at Panipat? [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2014]

Q.26) Sufis and medieval mystic saints failed to modify either the religious ideas and
practicesor the outward structure of Hindu / Muslim societies to any appreciable
extent.Comment. [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2014]

Q.27) Though not very useful from the point of view of a connected political history of South
India,the Sangam literature portrays the social and economic conditions of its time with
remarkable vividness. Comment. [200 Words] [10 Marks] [2013]

Q.28) Discuss the Tandava dance as recorded in the early Indian inscriptions. [100 Words] [5
Marks] [2013]

Q.29) Chola architecture represents a high watermark in the evolution of temple

architecture.Discuss. [100 Words] [5 Marks] [2013]

Trends of Indian Art and Culture PYQs For UPSC Mains

As per the recent trends, the questions asked about Indian Art and Culture have
increased. Therefore, it is crucial for candidates to thoroughly analyze and practice the
previous year’s questions (PYQs) on topics mentioned under art and culture in the UPSC

3/4
official syllabus to enhance their preparation.

The mains questions for Art and Culture in recent years have covered a wide range of topics.
In 2023, questions were regarding Vedic society and religion, role of geographical
factors towards the development of Ancient India and the Sultanate period. In 2022,
questions delved into subjects like the Gupta and Chola Period, as well as Medieval
Temple Scriptures. The 2021 examination included a question regarding the Bhakti
Movement and its impact on Indian culture. In 2020, there were four challenging
questions related to Indian History and Architecture. This diversity of topics underscores
the significance of a comprehensive understanding of Indian Art and Culture for UPSC
Mains, as candidates should be prepared to tackle a broad spectrum of questions in this
domain.

Year Total Marks weightage

2023 40

2022 40

2021 10

2020 50

2019 10

2018 35

2017 25

2016 25

2015 25

2014 50

2013 20

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 List of Keywords
General Studies Paper 1

Indian Heritage and culture, History and Geography of the world and
society

Topic 1: Art & Culture - Salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature and Architecture from ancient
to modern times

Key concepts: Architecture – Forts – Palaces – Temple Architecture – Nagara – Vesara – Dravida -
Caves – Ajanta – Ellora – Elephanta – Cave Paintings – Mosques – Arches – Domes - Public Buildings
– Charles Corbusier - Sculptor – Indus Valley Civilization – Pashupati – Nataraja – Tandava -
Ashokan – Buddhist - Pillars & Stupa – Indo-Greek – Mathura – Gandhara – Amravati – Gupta Period
Sculptor – Delhi Sultanate - Evolution of Coinage – Gupta numismatic art - Gupta Sculptor in South
Indian Temples & Caves – Mahabalipuram – Chola Temples – Paintings – Pre-historic paintings –
Petroglyphs – Mesolithic Paintings – Chalcolithic Paintings – Pottery Paintings in Indus Valley
Civilization – Vedic Age – Indo Greeks Period – Mural Paintings – Ajanta Ellora – Haathi Gumpha –
Medieval Period Paintings – Miniature Paintings – Palas – Arabesque – Regional Schools of Painting –
Maithili – Manjusha – Kalamkari – Kalighat – Phad – Worli – Batik – Tanjavur – Mysore Paintings -
Mughal Paintings – Portrait – Miniature – Narrative Paintings – Rajput School – Pahari School – Indian
Renaissance - Company School of Paintings – Bengal Renaissance – Nationalist School of Paintings –
Raja Ravi Verma – Qubic Style – M F Hussain – Modern Art – Performing Arts – Dance – Classical
– Folk – Martial Arts - Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kathakali, Kuchipudi, Odissi, Sattriya, Manipuri,
Mohiniyattam – Music – Hindustani – Carnatic – Gharana Tradition – Lucknow – Gwalior – Darbhanga
– Kirana – Instruments – String Based – Wind Instruments – Drum - Dholak – Mridang – Veena –
Tabla – Santoor - Theatre – National School of Drama – Yakshgan – Nautanki – Rasleela – Bhand –
Pather – Jatra - Puppetry – Gloves – Rod – String – Shadow Puppetry - Literature – Vedic Literature
– Sangam Literature – Bhakti Literature - Early & Later – Buddhist Lit. – Jain Lit. Accounts of Travelers
– Chinese - Fa-Hein – Megasthenes – Hein Tsang - Continuity of Indian Culture – Sangam Era – Arab
Travelers – Al-Beruni – Ibn Battuta – Minhaz Siraj – Court Historians – Navratnas – Tansen – Amir
Khusro – Abul Fazl – Abdul Badayuni – European Travelers – Francis Bernier - Vasco De Gama –
Marco Polo – Nicolo Conti – Abdul Razzaq – Barbosa – Father Monserrat – Ralphfich – Captain
Hawkins – Schools of Philosophy – Astika – Nastika – Charvaka – Jain – Buddha – Samkhya – Ajivikas
– Mimamsa – Vedanta – Nayaya – Yoga – Samkhya – Vaisheshika – Advait – Shankaracharya – Bhakti
Philosophy – Medieval Times – Kabir – Guru Nanak – “Vasudhaiv Kutumbakam” – Architecture of
Modern Cities – Chandigarh – Le Corbusier – Lessons in Planning from Ancient India.

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Modern History Previous Year Questions (PYQs) | UPSC
Mains Examination
forumias.com/blog/modern-history-previous-year-questions-upsc-mains-examination/

Modern History Previous Year Questions (PYQs)| UPSC Mains

Examination
On this page, you will find all the updates related to the previous year’s questions of the
subject Modern History for the UPSC IAS Mains examination.

General Studies Paper 1 of the UPSC mains exam encompasses a wide array of subjects,
including history, art and culture, geography, and society. History holds a significant position
within this paper, and questions are posed on various aspects such as the middle of the
eighteenth century until the present- significant events, personalities, issues, the Indian
Freedom Struggle — its various stages, and important contributors/contributions from
different parts of the country and Post-independence consolidation and reorganization within
the country.

Modern history can also be relevant in essay writing and ethics papers, where candidates
may be asked to analyze historical events, their ethical dimensions, and their impact on
contemporary society.

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Q.1) What was the difference between Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore in their
approach towards education and nationalism? [Answer in 150 words] [10 Marks] [2023]

Q.2) How did colonial rule affect the tribal in India and what was the tribal response to
colonial oppression? [250 Words] [15 Marks] [2023]

Q.3) Why did the armies of the British East India Company–mostly comprising of Indian
soldiers–win consistently against the more numerous and better equipped armies of the
Indian rulers? Give reasons. [Answer in 150 words] [10 Marks][2022]

Q.4) Why was there a sudden spurt in famines in colonial India since the mid-eighteenth
century? Give reasons.[Answer in 150 words][10 Marks][2022]

Q.5) Bring out the constructive programmes of Mahatma Gandhi during Non-Cooperation
Movement and Civil Disobedience Movement.[250 Words] [15 Marks] [2021]

Q.6) To what extent did the role of the Moderates prepare a base for the wider freedom
movement? Comment.[250 Words] [15 Marks] [2021]

Q.7) Trace the rise and growth of socio-religious reform movements with special reference to
Young Bengal and Brahmo Samaj. [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2021]

Q.8) Evaluate the policies of Lord Curzon and their long-term implication on the national
movement. [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2020]

Q.9) Since the decade of the 1920s, the national movement acquired various ideological
strands and thereby expanded its social base. Discuss. [250 Words] [15 Marks] [2020]

Q.10) The 1857 uprising was the culmination of the recurrent, big and small local rebellions
that had occurred in the preceding hundred years of British rule. Elucidate. [150 Words] [10
Marks] [2019]

Q.11) Examine the linkages between the nineteenth century’s ‘Indian Renaissance’ and the
emergence of national identity. [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2019]

Q.12) Many voices had strengthened and enriched the nationalist movement during the
Gandhian phase. Elaborate. [250 Words] [15 Marks] [2019]

Q.13) Assess the role of British imperial power in complicating the process of transfer of
power during the 1940s. [250 Words] [15 Marks] [2019]

Q.14) Throw light on the significance of the thoughts of Mahatma Gandhi in the present
times.[150 Words] [10 Marks] [2018]

Q.15) Clarify how mid-eighteenth-century India was beset with the spectre of a fragmented
polity. [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2017]

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Q.16) Why did the ‘Moderates’ failed to carry conviction with the nation about their
proclaimed ideology and political goals by the end of the nineteenth century? [150 Words]
[10 Marks] [2017]

Q.17) Examine how the decline of traditional artisan industry in colonial India crippled the
rural economy. [250 Words] [15 Marks] [2017]

Q.18) Highlight the importance of the new objectives that got added to the vision of Indian
Independence since the twenties of the last century. [250 Words] [15 Marks] [2017]

Q.19) Explain how the upraising of 1857 constitutes an important watershed in the evolution
of British policies towards colonial India. [200 Words] [12.5 Marks] [2016]

Q.20) Discuss the role of women in the freedom struggle especially during the Gandhian
phase.[200 Words] [12.5 Marks] [2016]

Q.21) Highlight the differences in the approach of Subhash Chandra Bose and Mahatma
Gandhi in the struggle for freedom. [200 Words] [12.5 Marks] [2016]

Q.22) How difficult would have been the achievement of Indian independence without
Mahatma Gandhi? Discuss. [200 Words] [12.5 Marks] [2015]

Q.23) Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. B R Ambedkar, despite having divergent approaches and
strategies, had a common goal of amelioration of the downtrodden. Elucidate. [200 Words]
[12.5 Marks] [2015]

Q.24) Examine critically the various facets of economic policies of the British in India from
mid-eighteenth century till independence. [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2014]

Q.25) In what ways did the naval mutiny prove to be the last nail in the coffin of British
colonial aspirations in India? [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2014]

Q.26) What were the major political, economic and social developments in the world which
motivated the anti-colonial struggle in India? [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2014]

Q.27) Defying the barriers of age, gender and religion, the Indian women became the
torchbearer during the struggle for freedom in India. Discuss. [200 Words] [10 Marks] [2013]

Q.28) Several foreigners made India their homeland and participated in various
movements.Analyze their role in the Indian struggle for freedom. [200 Words] [10 Marks]
[2013]

Q.29) In many ways, Lord Dalhousie was the founder of modern India. Elaborate. [200
Words] [10 Marks] [2013]

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Trends of Modern History PYQs For UPSC Mains
In recent years, the examination trend has shown that questions related to Modern India
typically carry a weightage of 25 to 40 marks, while the number of questions on modern
India in the last 4 years has remained consistent ( around 2-3 questions).
Therefore, it is crucial for candidates to thoroughly analyze and practice the previous
year’s questions (PYQs) on topics mentioned under Modern History in the UPSC official
syllabus to enhance their preparation.

The mains questions for Modern history in recent years have covered a wide range of topics.
In 2023, questions were on Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore, colonial rule
affects on tribals of India. In 2022, questions delved into subjects like the reason behind
the sudden spurt in famines in colonial India and the armies of the Britishers.
The 2021 examination included a question regarding the non-cooperation Movement and
Civil Disobedience Movement, moderates, and socio-religious reform
movements. In 2020, there were two questions, related to the Indian national movement
and policies of Lord Curzon. This diversity of topics underscores the significance of a
comprehensive understanding of modern history for UPSC Mains. The practice of PYQs can
allow candidates to get a better idea of the type of question asked and tailor their preparation
accordingly.

Year Total Marks weightage

2023 25

2022 20

2021 40

2020 25

2019 50

2018 10

2017 50

2016 37.5

2015 12.5

2014 30

2013 30

4/4
Topic 2: Modern History: Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth
century until the present- significant events, personalities, issues. The Freedom Struggle —
its various stages and important contributors/contributions from different parts of the
country.

Modern History: Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century
until 1905: Advent of Europeans – Portuguese – Contribution – Causes of Failure- French – Carnatic
Wars – Why they failed against the British? - Battle of Panipat – British and Native States – Battle of
Plassey – Buxar – Anglo – Marathas – Anglo – Punjab – Sindh Conquest - Establishment of British rule
in India - British policies and its impact – Land Revenue System – Permanent Settlement – Mahalwari
– Ryotwari – Commercialization of Agriculture – Development of Civil Services – Police – Education
– Press – Famine Commissions - De-industrialization – Railways – Local Self Government –
Constitutional Developments – Regulating Act 1773,1784 – Charter Acts – Government of India Act
1858,1909,1919,1935 – Indian Councils Act 1861,1892 - Religious and social reform movements and
their impact – Growth of art, literature and modern press in India – Major Social reforms - Indian
Renaissance - Raja Ram Mohan Roy – Ishvar Chandra Vidyasagar - Caste movements in south India &
Maharashtra - Reforms of Cornwallis, Wellesley, Hasting, William Bentick, Dalhousie - Revolt of 1857
, causes and consequences – Rise of Indian Nationalism – Drain Theory – Early political movements
and Indian National Congress – Moderates – Extremists - Role of Lytton, Ripon and Curzon - Rise of
extremism – Swadeshi and Boycott movement in India – Split in Congress and rise of revolutionary
terrorism - Morley-Minto reforms and formation of Muslim League - Modern Indian history from
1905 until independence: Gandhi in South Africa – Role of Gandhi in eradication of Indentured
slavery system - Return of Mahatma Gandhi - Gandhian Philosophy – Satyagraha - His ideas on
Communalism, Trusteeship, Socialism, Means and Ends – Relevance of Gandhian ideas in present times
– Gandhi vs Nehru, Gandhi vs Tagore, Gandhi vs Ambedkar, Gandhi vs Subhash – Role of Women in
Gandhian movements –Why Gandhi was successful - Champaran, Ahmedabad and Kheda Movement
– Gadhar Movement – Home rule movement and its impact – Role of Foreigners in National Movement
–Influence of foreign events on Indian National movement - Non-cooperation movement and Khilafat
movement – Gandhi vs Jinnah on Khilafat Issue - Montague Chelmsford reforms 1919 – Swarajists –
Rise of Left – Congress Socialist Party – Communists – JLN, Subhash Bose influence – Peasant
movements in India - Rise of communalism and its dangerous effects - Simon Commission – Lahore
Congress, from Swaraj to complete independence – Civil disobedience movement – Round table
conferences – Poona Pact – Constitutional development, Government of India Act 1935 - 28-month
congress rule – National movement during world war – Individual Satyagraha – August Offer – Cripps
Proposal - Quit India Movement – Wavell Plan – Rajaji’s Formula – INA Trials – RIN Mutiny - National
upsurge after second world war – Tebhaga Movement - Formation of Interim government –
Constituent Assembly - Wavell Breakdown Plan – Mountbatten Plan – Menon Plan – Independence of
India Act,1947 – Partition and Communal Violence.

ForumIAS Offline
2nd Floor, IAPL House, 19, Pusa Road, Karol Bagh, New Delhi – 110005 |Call: 9821711605|[email protected]|
Post – Independence India Previous Year Questions
(PYQs) | UPSC Mains Examination
forumias.com/blog/post-independence-previous-year-questions-upsc-mains-examination/

On this page you will find all the updates related to the previous year questions of subject
Post – Independence India for UPSC IAS Mains examination.

In the UPSC mains GS paper I, the syllabus covers the post-independence history of India,
focusing on the theme of “Post-independence consolidation and reorganization within
the country.” The syllabus does not provide specific subheadings or topics for candidates to
study. Given that 76 years have passed since India gained independence in 1947, numerous
significant events have influenced India’s ongoing development. Hence, candidates need to
cover the ongoing developments till date extensively with a broad understanding.

Q.1) The political and administrative reorganization of states and territories has been a
continuous ongoing process since the mid-nineteenth century. Discuss with examples.
[Answer in 250 words] [15 Marks] [2022]

Q.2) Assess the main administrative issues and socio-cultural problems in the integration
process of Indian Princely States. [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2021]

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Q.3) Discuss whether formation of new states in recent times is beneficial or not for the
economy of India. [250 Words] [15 Marks] [2018]

Q.4) What are the two major legal initiatives by the State since Independence addressing
discrimination against Scheduled Tribes (STs)? [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2017]

Q.5) Has the formation of linguistic states strengthened the cause of Indian unity? [200
Words] [12.5 Marks] [2016]

Q.6) It would have been difficult for the Constituent Assembly to complete its historic task of
drafting the Constitution for Independent India in just three years, but its experience gained
with the Government of India Act, 1935.Discuss. [200 Words] [12.5 Marks] [2015]

Q.7) Critically discuss the objectives of Bhoodan and Gramdan movements initiated by
Acharya Vinoba Bhave and their success. [200 Words] [10 Marks] [2013]

Q.8) Write a critical note on the evolution and significance of the slogan “Jai Jawana Jai
Kisan”. [200 Words] [10 Marks] [2013]

Q.9) Discuss the contribution of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad to pre-and post-independent
India. [200 Words] [10 Marks] [2013]

Q.10) Analyse the circumstances that led to Tashkent Agreement in 1966. Discuss the
highlights of the agreement. [200 Words] [10 Marks] [2013]

Q.11) Critically examine the compulsions which prompted India to play a decisive role in the
emergence of Bangladesh. [200 Words] [10 Marks] [2013]

Trends of Post-Independence India PYQs For UPSC Mains

In recent years, the examination trend has shown that questions related to Post-
Independence India typically carry a weightage of 10 to 15 marks.
Although there are not many questions asked about this topic, it is a low-hanging fruit i.e if
candidates thoroughly analyze and practice the previous year’s questions (PYQs) on this
topic in the UPSC official syllabus, one can easily score 10 -15 marks in mains paper.

The mains questions for Post- Independence India in recent years have covered a wide
range of topics. In 2023, there were no questions from this topic. In 2022, questions delved
into topics like the political and administrative reorganization of states and territories.
The 2021 examination included a question regarding the administrative issues and socio-
cultural problems in the integration process of Indian Princely States. In 2020, there
were no questions from this topic.

Year Total Marks weightage

2/3
2023 –

2022 15

2021 10

2020 –

2019 –

2018 15

2017 10

2016 12.5

2015 12.5

2014 –

2013 50

3/3
Topic 3: Post-Independence: Post-independence consolidation and reorganization within the
country.

Post-Independence India: Key words: Challenges before Indian Democracy - Impact and Legacy
of Colonial Rule - Integration of Princely States - Linguistic State Formation and Issue of National and
Official Language - Integration of Tribal – North Eastern – Challenges - Regionalism and Regional
Inequality - Tribal Panchsheel - Land and Agriculture reforms - Zamindari Abolition - Tenancy Reforms
(Operation Barga) - Land Ceilings; The Bhoodan Movement & Gramdan Movement – Recent land
reforms - Green Revolution & Green Revolution - Foreign Policy, NAM and Relations with countries
- International role - Indo China war – Indira Gandhi: Inner party struggle and congress split, Bangladesh
Challenge,1971 and Indo- Pak War - Shimla Agreement,1972 – Emergency: cause and consequences -
Separatist movement: Kashmir, Punjab, North East - Women movements – Environmental movements
in Post-Independence – Dalit Politics – Development of Science – New Farmer Movement

Topic 4: World History: History of the world will include events from 18th century such as
industrial revolution, world wars, redrawal of national boundaries, colonization,
decolonization, political philosophies like communism, capitalism, socialism etc.— their
forms and effect on the society.

World History: Events from 18th century till world war I: Keywords: Renaissance – Age of
Enlightenment - Industrial Revolution – Causes & Consequences – IR in Britain, Japan, Russia, India -
Impact on India - Emergence of new ideologies like capitalism, communism, socialism - American
revolution and civil war – American Constitution - British Mercantilism - French revolution - Rise and
fall of Napoleon - Vienna Congress - Rise of Nation states – Rise of Socialism – Communism – 1st
International – 2nd International – Workers Movement - unification of Germany and Italy - Balkan Wars
- Imperialism and colonization- World war- cause and consequence, Treaty of Versailles - League of
Nations - Russian revolution, cause and consequence - Lenin’s New Economic Policy – Stalin's
Economic policies – Great Depression and the New Deal Events from world war I and onwards:
Keywords: Rise of Nazism and Hitler in Germany – Role of Hitler in WWII – Policy of appeasement
- Rise of Fascism in Italy - Japanese imperialism - Chinese revolution – Spanish Revolution - World war
II- cause and consequences - Decolonization and achievement of freedom by nations (from 18th
century onwards) - West Africa – Indonesia – Apartheid – Malay Peninsula - Cold war and bipolar
world – Cuban Missile Crisis - Afro-Asian unity and Non- alignment - Arab Nationalism - Palestine and
Israel-Arab conflict - fall of USSR – Gorbachev’s policies - Fall of Berlin Wall - Gulf wars - Iranian
revolution - Afghan Invasion – European Union – Formation and new challenges.

ForumIAS Offline
2nd Floor, IAPL House, 19, Pusa Road, Karol Bagh, New Delhi – 110005 |Call: 9821711605|[email protected]|
World History Previous Year Questions (PYQs)| UPSC
Mains Examination
forumias.com/blog/world-history-previous-year-questions-upsc-mains-examination/

World History Previous Year Questions (PYQs) | UPSC Mains

Examination
On this page you will find all the updates related to the previous year questions on the
subject of World History for UPSC IAS Mains examination.

World History is part of the GS I syllabus. Analyzing World History PYQs is a valuable part
of exam preparation. It helps you understand the exam pattern, identify important topics, and
improve your historical knowledge and answer writing skills. This knowledge is essential not
only for the exam but also for a broader understanding of global historical events and
their relevance in today’s world.

Q.1) Bring out the socio-economic effects of the introduction of railways in different countries
of the world. [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2023]

Q.2)”There arose a serious challenge to the Democratic State System between the two
World Wars.” Evaluate the statement. [250 Words] [15 Marks] [2021]

1/3
Q.3) Explain how the foundations of the modern world were laid by the American and French
Revolutions.[250 Words] [15 Marks] [2019]

Q.4) Why indentured labour was taken by the British from India to their colonies? have they
been able to preserve their cultural identity over there? [250 Words] [15 Marks] [2018]

Q.5) What problems are germane to the decolonization process in the Malay Peninsula?
[150 Words] [10 Marks] [2017]

Q.6) The anti-colonial struggles in West Africa were led by the new elite of Western-educated
Africans. Examine. [200 Words] [12.5 Marks] [2016]

Q.7) Why did the industrial revolution first occur in England? Discuss the quality of life of the
people there during the industrialization. How does it compare with that in India at present
times? [200 Words] [12.5 Marks] [2015]

Q.8) To what extend can Germany be held responsible for causing the two World Wars?
Discuss critically. [200 Words] [12.5 Marks] [2015]

Q.9) What were the events that led to the Suez Crisis in 1956? How did it deal a final blow to
Britain’s self-image as a world power? [150 Words][10 Marks] [2014]

Q.10) The New Economic Policy–1921 of Lenin had influenced the policies adopted by India
soon after independence. Evaluate. [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2014]

Q.11) “Latecomer” Industrial revolution in Japan involved certain factors that were markedly
different from what west had experience. [200 Words] [10 Marks] [2013]

Q.12) Africa was chopped into states artificially created by accident of European competition.
[200 Words] [10 Marks] [2013]

Q.13) American Revolution was an economic revolt against mercantilism. Substantiate. [200
Words] [10 Marks] [2013]

Q.14) What policy instruments were deployed to contain the great economic depression?
[200 Words] [10 Marks] [2013]

Trends of World History PYQs for UPSC Mains

In recent years, the examination trend has shown that questions related to World history
typically carry a weightage of 10 to 15 marks.

In the UPSC Mains examination, you may encounter occasional questions related to World
History. It’s important to note that these questions tend to concentrate on particular
subtopics within the broader field of World History.

2/3
The mains questions for World history in recent years have covered a wide range of topics.
In 2023, questions were on the socio-economic effects of the introduction of railways in
different countries of the world. The 2021 examination included a question regarding the
challenges to the democratic state system that emerged in the inter-war years. In 2020,
there was a question related to the American and French Revolutions.

Year Total Marks weightage

2023 10

2022 –

2021 15

2020 –

2019 15

2018 15

2017 10

2016 12.5

2015 25

2014 20

2013 40

3/3
Topic 3: Post-Independence: Post-independence consolidation and reorganization within the
country.

Post-Independence India: Key words: Challenges before Indian Democracy - Impact and Legacy
of Colonial Rule - Integration of Princely States - Linguistic State Formation and Issue of National and
Official Language - Integration of Tribal – North Eastern – Challenges - Regionalism and Regional
Inequality - Tribal Panchsheel - Land and Agriculture reforms - Zamindari Abolition - Tenancy Reforms
(Operation Barga) - Land Ceilings; The Bhoodan Movement & Gramdan Movement – Recent land
reforms - Green Revolution & Green Revolution - Foreign Policy, NAM and Relations with countries
- International role - Indo China war – Indira Gandhi: Inner party struggle and congress split, Bangladesh
Challenge,1971 and Indo- Pak War - Shimla Agreement,1972 – Emergency: cause and consequences -
Separatist movement: Kashmir, Punjab, North East - Women movements – Environmental movements
in Post-Independence – Dalit Politics – Development of Science – New Farmer Movement

Topic 4: World History: History of the world will include events from 18th century such as
industrial revolution, world wars, redrawal of national boundaries, colonization,
decolonization, political philosophies like communism, capitalism, socialism etc.— their
forms and effect on the society.

World History: Events from 18th century till world war I: Keywords: Renaissance – Age of
Enlightenment - Industrial Revolution – Causes & Consequences – IR in Britain, Japan, Russia, India -
Impact on India - Emergence of new ideologies like capitalism, communism, socialism - American
revolution and civil war – American Constitution - British Mercantilism - French revolution - Rise and
fall of Napoleon - Vienna Congress - Rise of Nation states – Rise of Socialism – Communism – 1st
International – 2nd International – Workers Movement - unification of Germany and Italy - Balkan Wars
- Imperialism and colonization- World war- cause and consequence, Treaty of Versailles - League of
Nations - Russian revolution, cause and consequence - Lenin’s New Economic Policy – Stalin's
Economic policies – Great Depression and the New Deal Events from world war I and onwards:
Keywords: Rise of Nazism and Hitler in Germany – Role of Hitler in WWII – Policy of appeasement
- Rise of Fascism in Italy - Japanese imperialism - Chinese revolution – Spanish Revolution - World war
II- cause and consequences - Decolonization and achievement of freedom by nations (from 18th
century onwards) - West Africa – Indonesia – Apartheid – Malay Peninsula - Cold war and bipolar
world – Cuban Missile Crisis - Afro-Asian unity and Non- alignment - Arab Nationalism - Palestine and
Israel-Arab conflict - fall of USSR – Gorbachev’s policies - Fall of Berlin Wall - Gulf wars - Iranian
revolution - Afghan Invasion – European Union – Formation and new challenges.

ForumIAS Offline
2nd Floor, IAPL House, 19, Pusa Road, Karol Bagh, New Delhi – 110005 |Call: 9821711605|[email protected]|
Indian Society Previous Year Questions (PYQs) | UPSC
Mains Examination
forumias.com/blog/indian-society-previous-year-questions-upsc-mains-examination/

On this page you will find all the updates related to the previous year questions of subject
Indian Society for UPSC IAS Mains examination.

Indian Society holds a significant place in the UPSC Mains General Studies Paper 1.
Numerous questions in the IAS Exam’s Mains GS-I paper directly pertain to various aspects
of Indian society, including status of women in Indian society, globalization, caste identity,
communalism, secularism, regionalism, and other related themes.

Q.1) Do you think marriage as a sacrament is loosing its value in modern India? [150 Words]
[10 Marks][2023]

Q.2) Why suicide among young women is increasing in Indian society? [150 Words] [10
Marks][2023]

Q.3) Child cuddling is now being replaced by mobile phones. Discuss its impact on the
socialization of children [150 Words] [10 Marks][2023]

1/6
Q.4) Does urbanisation lead to more segregation and/or marginalisation of the poor in Indian
metropolises. [250 Words] [15 Marks][2023]

Q.5) Why is caste identity in India both static and fluid? [250 Words] [15 Marks] [2023]

Q.6) Discuss the impact of post-liberal economy on ethnic identity of communalism. [250
Words] [15 Marks][2023]

Q.7) Explore and evaluate the impact of ‘Work From Home’ on family relationships. [150
Words] [10 Marks][2022]

Q.8) How is the growth of Tier 2 cities related to the rise of a new middle class with an
emphasis on the culture of consumption? [150 Words] [10 Marks][2022]

Q.9) Given the diversities among the tribal communities in India, in which specific contexts
should they be considered as a single category?[150 Words] [10 Marks][2022]

Q.10) Analyze the salience of ‘sect’ in Indian society vis-a-vis caste, region and religion. [250
Words] [15 Marks][2022]

Q.11) Are tolerance, assimilation and pluralism the key elements in the making of an Indian
form of secularism? Justify your answer.[250 Words] [15 Marks][2022]

Q.12) Elucidate the relationship between globalization and new technology in a world of
scarce resources, with special reference to India. [250 Words] [15 Marks][2022]

Q.13) How does Indian society maintain continuity in traditional social values? Enumerate
the changes taking place in it.[250 Words] [15 Marks] [2021]

Q.14) What is Cryptocurrency? How does it affect global society? Has it been affecting
Indian society also.[250 Words] [15 Marks] [2021]

Q.15) Discuss the main objectives of Population Education and point out the measures to
achieve them in India in detail.[250 Words] [15 Marks] [2021]

Q.16) What are the main socio-economic implications arising out of the development of IT
industries in major cities of India?[250 Words] [15 Marks] [2021]

Q.17) Examine the role of ‘Gig Economy’ in the process of empowerment of women in India.
[150 Words] [10 Marks] [2021]

Q.18) Examine the uniqueness of tribal knowledge system when compared with mainstream
knowledge and cultural systems.[150 Words] [10 Marks] [2021]

Q.19) Why is India considered as a subcontinent? Elaborate your answer.[150 Words] [10
Marks] [2021]

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Q.20) Has caste lost its relevance in understanding the multi-cultural Indian Society?
Elaborate your answers with illustrations.[150 Words] [10 Marks] [2020]

Q.21)COVID-19 pandemic accelerated class inequalities and poverty in India. Comment.[150

Words] [10 Marks] [2020]

Q.22) Is diversity and pluralism in India under threat due to globalization? Justify your
answer.[250 Words] [15 Marks] [2020]

Q.23) Do you agree that regionalism in India appears to be a consequence of rising cultural
assertiveness? Argue[150 Words] [10 Marks] [2020]

Q.24) Customs and traditions suppress reason leading to obscurantism. Do you agree? [250
Words] [15 Marks] [2020]

Q.25) How have digital initiatives in India contributed to the functioning of the education
system in the country? Elaborate your answer [250 Words] [15 Marks] [2020]

Q.26) What makes the Indian society unique in sustaining its culture? Discuss. [150 Words]
[10 Marks] [2019]

Q.27) “Empowering women is the key to control population growth.” Discuss. [150 Words]
[10 Marks] [2019]

Q.28) What are the challenges to our cultural practices in the name of secularism? [150
Words] [10 Marks] [2019]

Q.29) Do we have cultural pockets of small India all over the nation? Elaborate with
examples. [250 Words] [15 Marks] [2019]

Q.30) What are the continued challenges for women in India against time and space?[250
Words] [15 Marks] [2019]

Q.31) Are we losing our local identity for the global identity? Discuss.[250 Words] [15 Marks]
[2019]

Q.32) “Caste system is assuming new identities and associational forms. Hence, caste
system cannot be eradicated in India.” Comment.[150 Words] [10 Marks] [2018]

Q.33)‘Despite implementation of various programmes for eradication of poverty by the

government in India, poverty is still existing’. Explain by giving reasons. [150 Words] [10
Marks] [2018]

Q.34) How the Indian concept of secularism different from the western model of secularism?
Discuss. [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2018]

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Q.35) ‘Women’s movement in India has not addressed the issues of women of lower social
strata.’ Substantiate your view.[250 Words] [15 Marks] [2018]

Q.36) ‘Globalisation is generally said to promote cultural homogenisation but due to this
cultural specificities appear to be strengthened in the Indian society.’ Elucidate [250 Words]
[15 Marks] [2018]

Q.37) ‘Communalism arises either due to power struggle or relative deprivation.’ Argue by
giving suitable illustrations. [250 Words] [15 Marks] [2018]

Q.38) In the context of the diversity of India, can it be said that the regions form cultural unit
srather than the States? Give reasons with examples for your view point. [150 Words] [10
Marks][2017]

Q.39) The women’s questions arose in modern India as a part of the 19th century social
reform movement. What are the major issues and debates concerning women in that period?
[250 Words] [15 Marks] [2017]

Q.40) Distinguish between religiousness/religiosity and communalism giving one example of

how the former has got transformed into the latter in independent India. [250 Words] [15
Marks] [2017]

Q.42) “The growth of cities as I.T. hubs has opened up new avenues of employment, but has
also created new problems”. Substantiate this statement with examples. [250 Words] [15
Marks] [2017]

Q.43) To what extent globalisation has influenced the core of cultural diversity in India?
Explain. [200 Words] [12.5 Marks] [2016]

Q.44) “An essential condition to eradicate poverty is to liberate the poor from the process of
deprivation.” Substantiate this statement with suitable examples. [200 Words] [12.5 Marks]
[2016]

Q.45) Why are the tribals in India referred to as ‘the Scheduled Tribes’? Indicate the major
provisions enshrined in the Constitution of India for their upliftment. [200 Words] [12.5 Marks]
[2016]

Q.46) With a brief background of quality of urban life in India, introduce the objectives and
strategy of the ‘Smart City Programme.” [200 Words] [12.5 Marks] [2016]

Q.47) What is the basis of regionalism? Is it that unequal distribution of benefits of

development on regional basis eventually promotes regionalism? Substantiate your answer.
[200 Words] [12.5 Marks] [2016]

4/6
Q.48) Describe any four cultural elements of diversity in India and rate their relative
significance in building a national identity. [200 Words] [12.5 Marks] [2015]

Q.49) Critically examine whether growing population is the cause of poverty OR poverty is
the mains cause of population increase in India. [200 Words] [12.5 Marks] [2015]

Q.50) How do you explain the statistics that show that the sex ratio in Tribes in India is more
favourable to women than the sex ratio among Scheduled Castes? [200 Words] [12.5 Marks]
[2015]

Q.51) Discuss the changes in the trends of labour migration within and outside India in the
last four decades. [200 Words] [12.5 Marks] [2015]

Q.52) Discuss the positive and negative effects of globalization on women in India? [200
Words] [12.5 Marks] [2015]

Q.53) Debate the issue whether and how contemporary movements for assertion of Dalit
identity work towards annihilation of caste. [200 Words] [12.5 Marks] [2015]

Q.54) How does patriarchy impact the position of a middle-class working woman in India?
[150 Words] [10 Marks] [2014]

Q.55) Why do some of the most prosperous regions of India have an adverse sex ratio for
women? Give your arguments.[150 Words] [10 Marks] [2014]

Q.56)The life cycle of a joint family depends on economic factors rather than social values.
Discuss. [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2014]

Q.56) Discuss the various economic and socio-cultural forces that are driving increasing
feminization of agriculture in India. [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2014]

Q.57) How do the Indian debates on secularism differ from the debates in the West? [150
Words] [10 Marks] [2014]

Q.58) Discussion the various social problems which originated out of the speedy process of
urbanization in India. [200 Words] [10 Marks] [2013]

Q.59) Male membership needs to be encouraged in order to make women’s organization

free from gender bias. Comment. [200 Words] [10 Marks] [2013]

Q.60) Critically examine the effects of globalization on the aged population in India. [200
Words] [10 Marks] [2013]

Q.61) Growing feeling of regionalism is an important factor in the generation of demand for a
separate state. Discuss. [200 Words] [10 Marks] [2013]

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Trends of Indian Society PYQs For UPSC Mains
In recent years, the examination trend has shown that questions related to Indian society
carry a considerable high weightage as 6-7 questions of 10 -15 marks each has been
asked since last 4-5 years. The questions on this subject demands a comprehensive
observation and deep understanding on what is happening in Indian society.

The mains questions for Indian society in recent years have covered a wide range of topics.
In 2023, there was 6 questions from this topic which includes topics like status of marriage
in Indian society, status of women, increasing use of phone and related family issues,
marginalisation of poor on metropolises, caste identity, ethnic identity of
communalism. In 2022, questions delved into topics like the family relationship, rise of
new middle class, tribal communities in India, caste, region and religion, Indian form
of secularism,relationship between globalization and new technology. The 2021
examination included a question regarding the continuity in traditional values,
cryptocurrency and its affect on global society and Indian society, main objectives of
Population Education, main socio-economic implications arising out of the
development of IT industries in major cities of India, role of ‘Gig Economy’ in
empowerment of women in India, uniqueness of tribal knowledge system, and India as
a subcontinent. In 2020, there were question from topics like caste and multi-cultural
Indian Society, COVID-19 pandemic impact on class inequalities and poverty in India,
diversity and pluralism in India under threat due to globalization, regionalism in India,
customs and traditions, digital initiatives in India.

Year Total Marks weightage

2023 75

2022 75

2021 90

2020 –

2019 –

2018 15

2017 10

2016 12.5

2015 12.5

2014 –

2013 50

6/6
Topic 5: Indian Society: Salient features of Indian Society, Diversity of India. Role of women
and women’s organization, population and associated issues, poverty and developmental
issues, urbanization, their problems and their remedies. Effects of globalization on Indian
society. Social empowerment, communalism, regionalism & secularism.

Key Concepts: Salient Features of Indian Society – Issues related to: Religion, communalism and
secularism - Family - Caste system and caste based discrimination - Marriage and divorce - Print, digital
and social media - Education - Women and gender based discrimination – Children - Senior citizen –
Disabled – Youth- Urban Population and Rural population - Tribal - Impact of globalization on all
social groups – Regionalism - Pluralism and Diversity of language, culture, food, institutions etc. -
Women empowerment: social reforms, women organizations and SHGs – Population: age structure,
literacy, sex ratio – Poverty and poverty line - Inequalities and exclusions - Social cause of poverty –
Poverty alleviation initiatives.

Topic 6: Physical Geography: Salient features of world’s physical geography.

Topic 8: Geophysical Phenomena: Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes,
Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc., geographical features and their location-changes
in critical geographical features (including water-bodies and ice-caps) and in flora and fauna
and the effects of such changes.

Geomorphology: Interior of the earth - Continental drift theory - Plate tectonic theory - Landform
development in karst regions, arid region, glacial region - Landforms development due to fluvial, Aeolian
and glacial action - Endogenic and Exogenic forces - Formation of fold mountains and island arcs -
Volcanism and related landforms - Earthquakes and tsunami. Cryosphere.
Oceanography: Temperature and salinity of the oceans - Ocean currents - Waves and tides - Coral
reefs and coral bleaching - EL NINO and ENSO - Sea level change - Ocean acidification – Mineral
Reserves – Deep Sea Mining - Challenges
Climatology: Composition and structure of atmosphere - Temperature and pressure belts of the
world - Atmospheric circulation- Planetary and local winds - Monsoon and jet streams - Air masses
and air front - Tropical cyclones - Temperate cyclones - Heat budget - Climate change - Urban climate
– Ozone Depletion
Biogeography: Soils: types and locations; Major biomes of the world: tropical rainforest, temperate
forests, Savanah grasslands, temperate grasslands, Desert biome, Monsoon and Mediterranean biome
- Wetlands- Mangrove vegetation. Contemporary issues.

Topic 7/ Human and Economic Geography: Distribution of key natural resources across the
world (including South Asia and the Indian sub-continent); factors responsible for the
location of primary, secondary, and tertiary sector industries in various parts of the world
(including India).

ForumIAS Offline
2nd Floor, IAPL House, 19, Pusa Road, Karol Bagh, New Delhi – 110005 |Call: 9821711605|[email protected]|
Geography Previous Year Questions (PYQs) | UPSC
Mains Examination
forumias.com/blog/geography-previous-year-questions-upsc-mains-examination/

On this page, you will find all the updates related to the previous year questions (PYQs) of
subject Geography for UPSC IAS Mains examination.

Geography is part of UPSC Mains paper I. To effectively prepare for Geography questions
in the UPSC Mains, it’s essential to grasp fundamental principles in both physical and
human geography of India and the World, delve into geographical challenges, and
relate them to contemporary developments. Geography questions encompass a wide
array of subjects, including the natural and societal aspects of geography, environmental
concerns, and beyond. Through dedicated learning, practical exercises, and a deep
comprehension of key ideas, one can make these questions more manageable.

Q.1) Discuss the consequences of Climate Change on food security in tropical Countries.
[150 words] [10 Marks][2023]

Q.2) Why is the world today confronted with a crisis of availability of and access to
freshwater resources? [150 words] [10 Marks][2023]

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Q.3) How are the fjords formed? Why do they constitute some of the most picturesque areas
of the world? [150 words] [10 Marks][2023]

Q.4) Why is the South-West Monsoon called ‘Purvaiya” (easterly) in Bhojpur region? How
has this directional seasonal wind system influenced the cultural ethos of the region? [150
words] [10 Marks][2023]

Q.5) Comment on the resource potentials of the long coastline of India and Highlight the
status of natural hazard preparedness in these areas. [250 words][15 Marks][2023]

Q.6) Identify and discuss the factors responsible for diversity of Natural Vegetation in India.
Assess the significance of wildlife sanctuaries in rainforest regions of India. [250 words][15
Marks][2023]

Q.7) Why did Human development fail to keep pace with economic development in India?
[250 words][15 Marks][2023]

Q.8) From being a net food importer in the 1960s, India has emerged as a net food exporter
to the world. Provide reasons. [250 words][15 Marks][2023]

Q.9) Describe the characteristics and types of primary rocks. [150 Words] [10 Marks][2022]

Q.10) What are the forces that influence ocean currents? Describe their role in fishing
industry of the world. [250 Words] [15 Marks][2022]

Q.11) Troposphere is a very significant atmospheric layer that determines weather

processes.How? [250 Words] [15 Marks][2022]

Q.12) Discuss the natural resource potentials of ‘Deccan trap’. [150 Words] [10 Marks][2022]

Q.13) Examine the potential of wind energy in India and explain the reasons for their limited
spatial spread. [150 Words] [10 Marks][2022]

Q.14) Describing the distribution of rubber producing countries, indicate the major
environmental issues faced by them. [250 Words] [15 Marks][2022]

Q.15) Mention the significance of straits and isthmus in international trade. [250 Words] [15
Marks][2022]

Q.16) Discuss the meaning of colour-coded weather warnings for cyclone prone areas given
by India Meteorological department. [150 Words] [10 Marks][2022]

Q.17) Discuss the multi-dimensional implications of uneven distribution of mineral oil in the
world. [250 Words] [15 Marks] [2021]

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Q. 18) Despite India being one of the countries of the Gondwanaland, its mining industry
contributes much less to its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in percentage. Discuss. [150
Words] [10 Marks] [2021]

Q.19) Briefly mention the alignment of major mountain ranges of the world and explain their
impact on local weather conditions, with examples. [250 Words] [15 Marks] [2021]

Q.20) Differentiate the causes of landslides in the Himalayan region and Western Ghats.
[150 Words] [10 Marks] [2021]

Q.21) How do the melting of the Arctic ice and glaciers of the Antarctic differently affect the
weather patterns and human activities on the Earth? Explain.[250 Words] [15 Marks] [2021]

Q.22) Mention the global occurrence of volcanic eruptions in 2021 and their impact on
regional environment. [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2021]

Q.23) What are the environmental implications of the reclamation of Water bodies into urban
land use? Explain with examples. [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2021]

Q.24) How will the melting of Himalayan glaciers have a far-reaching impact on the water
resources of India?[150 Words] [10 Marks] [2021]

Q.24) Account for the present location of iron and steel industries away from the source of
raw material, by giving examples. [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2020]

Q.25) India has immense potential of solar energy through there are regional variations in its
development. Elaborate. [250 Words] [15 Marks] [2020]

Q.26) Discuss the geophysical characteristics of the Circum-Pacific zone. [150 Words] [10
Marks] [2020]

Q.27) The interlinking of rivers can provide viable solutions to the multi-dimensional inter-
related problem of droughts, floods and interrupted navigation. Critically examine. [250
Words] [15 Marks] [2020]

Q.28) The process of desertification does not have climate boundaries. Justify with
examples.[150 Words] [10 Marks] [2020]

Q.29) Account for the huge flooding of the million cities in India including the smart ones like
Hyderabad and Pune. Suggest lasting remedial measures. [250 Words] [15 Marks] [2020]

Q.30) Examine the status of forest resources of India and its resultant impact on climate
change. [250 Words] [15 Marks] [2020]

Q.31) How do ocean currents and water masses differ in their impacts on marine life and
coastal environment? Give suitable examples. [250 Words] [15 Marks] [2019]

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Q.32) Can the strategy of regional resource-based manufacturing help in promoting
employment in India? [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2019]

Q.33) Discuss the factors for localisation of agro-based food processing industries of North-
West India. [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2019]

Q.34) How is efficient and affordable urban mass transport key to the rapid economic
development in India?[250 Words] [15 Marks] [2019]

Q.35) Assess the impact of global warming on the coral life system with examples. [150
Words] [10 Marks] [2019]

Q.36) Discuss the causes of depletion of mangroves and explain their importance in
maintaining coastal ecology. [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2019]

Q.37) What is water stress? How and why does it differ regionally in India? [250 Words] [15
Marks] [2019]

Q.38) How can the mountain ecosystem be restored from the negative impact of
development initiatives and tourism? [250 Words] [15 Marks] [2019]

Q.39) Define mantle plume and explain its role in plate tectonics. [150 Words] [10 Marks]
[2018]

Q.40) Why is Indian Regional Navigational Satellite System (IRNSS) needed? How does it
help in navigation?[150 Words] [10 Marks] [2018]

Q.41) Why is India taking keen interest in the Arctic region? [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2018]

Q.42) “The ideal solution of depleting ground water resources in India is water harvesting
system.” How can it be made effective in urban areas? [250 Words] [15 Marks] [2018]

Q.43) Defining blue revolution, explain the problems and strategies for pisciculture
development in India. [250 Words] [15 Marks] [2018]

Q.44) What is the significance of Industrial Corridors in India? Identifying industrial

corridors,explain their main characteristics. [250 Words] [15 Marks] [2018]

Q.45) Mention core strategies for the transformation of aspirational districts in India and
explain the nature of convergence, collaboration and competition for its success. [250
Words] [15 Marks] [2018]

Q.46) What are the consequences of spreading of ‘Dead Zones’ on marine ecosystem? [150
Words] [10 Marks] [2018]

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Q.47) How does the Juno Mission of NASA help to understand the origin and evolution of the
Earth? [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2017]

Q.48) How does the cryosphere affect global climate? [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2017]

Q.49) Account for variations in oceanic salinity and discuss its multi-dimensional effects. [250
Words] [15 Marks] [2017]

Q.50) What characteristics can be assigned to monsoon climate that succeeds in feeding
more than 50 percent of the world population residing in Monsoon Asia? [250 Words] [15
Marks] [2017]

Q.51) “Inspite of adverse environmental impact, coal mining is still inevitable for
development”. Discuss. [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2017]

Q.52) Mention the advantages of the cultivation of pulses because of which the year 2016
was declared as the International Year of Pulses by United Nations. [150 Words] [10 Marks]
[2017]

Q.53) Petroleum refineries are not necessarily located nearer to crude oil producing
areas,particularly in many of the developing countries. Explain its implications. [250 Words]
[15 Marks] [2017]

Q.54) In what way can floods be converted into a sustainable source of irrigation and all-
weather inland navigation in India? [250 Words] [15 Marks] [2017]

Q.55) Discuss the concept of air mass and explain its role in macro-climatic changes.[200
Words] [12.5 Marks] [2016]

Q.56)“The Himalayas are highly prone to landslides. “Discuss the causes and suggest
suitable measures of mitigation. [200 Words] [12.5 Marks] [2016]

Q.57) The effective management of land and water resources will drastically reduce the
human miseries. Explain. [200 Words] [12.5 Marks] [2016]

Q.58) South China Sea has assumed great geopolitical significance in the present context.
Comment. [200 Words] [12.5 Marks] [2016]

Q.59) Major cities of India are becoming vulnerable to flood conditions. Discuss. [200 Words]
[12.5 Marks] [2016]

Q.60) Present an account of the Indus Water Treaty and examine its ecological, economic
and political implications in the context of changing bilateral relations. [200 Words] [12.5
Marks] [2016]

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Q.61) Enumerate the problems and prospects of inland water transport in India. [200 Words]
[12.5 Marks] [2016]

Q.62) In what way micro-watershed development projects help in water conservation in

drought-prone and semi-arid regions of India? [200 Words] [12.5 Marks] [2016]

Q.63) Explain the factors responsible for the origin of ocean currents. How do they influence
regional climates, fishing and navigation? [200 Words] [12.5 Marks] [2015]

Q.64) Smart cities in India cannot sustain without smart villages. Discuss this statement in
the backdrop of rural urban integration.[200 Words] [12.5 Marks] [2015]

Q.65) What are the economic significances of discovery of oil in Arctic Sea and its possible
environmental consequences?[200 Words] [12.5 Marks] [2015]

Q.66) Mumbai, Delhi and Kolkata are the three Mega cities of the country but the air pollution
is much more serious problem in Delhi as compared to the other two. Why is this so? [200
Words] [12.5 Marks] [2015]

Q.67) India is well endowed with fresh water resources. Critically examine why it still suffers
from water scarcity.[200 Words] [12.5 Marks] [2015]

Q.68) The states of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand are reaching
the limits of ecological carrying capacity due to tourism. Critically evaluate. [200 Words] [12.5
Marks] [2015]

Q.69) How far do you agree that the behaviour of the Indian monsoon has been changing
due to humanizing landscape? Discuss. [200 Words] [12.5 Marks] [2015]

Q.70) Why did the Green Revolution in India virtually by-pass the eastern region despite
fertile soil and good availability of water? [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2014]

Q.71) Account for the change in the spatial pattern of the Iron and Steel industry in the world.
[150 Words] [10 Marks] [2014]

Q.72) Critically evaluate the various resources of the oceans which can be harnessed to
meet the resource crisis in the world. [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2014]

Q.73) How does India see its place in the economic space of rising natural resource rich
Africa? [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2014]

Q.74) Most of the unusual climatic happenings are explained as an outcome of the El-Nino
effect. Do you agree? [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2014]

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Q.75) Why are the world’s fold mountain systems located along the margins of continents?
Bringout the association between the global distribution of fold mountains and the
earthquakes and volcanoes. [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2014]

Q.76) Explain the formation of thousands of islands in Indonesian and Philippines

archipelagos.[150 Words] [10 Marks] [2014]

Q.77) Tropical cyclones are largely confined to South China Sea, Bay of Bengal and Gulf of
Mexico. Why? [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2014]

Q.78) Whereas the British planters had developed tea gardens all along the Shivaliks and
Lesser Himalayas from Assam to Himachal Pradesh, in effect they did not succeed beyond
the Darjeeling area. Explain. [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2014]

Q.79) Bring out the relationship between the shrinking Himalayan glaciers and the symptoms
of climate change in the Indian sub-continent. [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2014]

Q.80) What do you understand by the theory of continental drift? Discuss the prominent
evidences in its support.[100 Words] [5 Marks] [2013]

Q.81) The recent cyclone on the east coast of India was called “Phailin”. How are the tropical
cyclones named across the world? Elaborate. [100 Words] [5 Marks] [2013]

Q.82) What do you understand by the phenomenon of temperature inversion in

meteorology?How does it affect the weather and the habitats of the place? [100 Words] [5
Marks] [2013]

Q.83) Major hot deserts in northern hemisphere are located between 20-30 degree north and
on the western side of the continents. Why? [100 Words] [5 Marks] [2013]

Q.84) Bringout the causes for more frequent landslides in the Himalayas than in Western
Ghats. [100 Words] [5 Marks] [2013]

Q.85) There is no formation of deltas by rivers of the Western Ghat. Why? [100 Words] [5
Marks] [2013]

Q.86) Do you agree that there is a growing trend of opening new sugar mills in the Southern
states of India?Discuss with justification. [100 Words] [5 Marks] [2013]

Q.87) Analyse the factors for highly decentralized cotton textile industry in India. [100 Words]
[5 Marks] [2013]

Q.88) With growing scarcity of fossil fuels, the atomic energy is gaining more and more
significance in India. Discuss the availability of raw material required for the generation of
atomic energy in India and in the world. [200 Words] [10 Marks] [2013]

7/9
Q.89) It is said the India has substantial reserves of shale oil and gas, which can feed the
needs of country for quarter century. However, tapping of the resources doesn’t appear to be
high on the agenda. Discuss critically the availability and issues involved. [200 Words] [10
Marks] [2013]

Q.90) Bring out the causes for the formation of heat islands in the urban habitat of the world.
[100 Words] [5 Marks] [2013]

Trends of Geography PYQs For UPSC Mains

In recent years, the examination trend has shown that questions related to Geography carry
a weightage of 10 -15 marks each. The questions on this subject demand a
comprehensive observation and deep understanding of geographical events.

The mains questions for geography in recent years have covered a wide range of topics. In
2023, there were 8 questions from this topic which included topics like consequences of
Climate Change on food security in tropical Countries, crisis of availability of and
access to freshwater resources, fjords, directional seasonal wind system, resource
potentials of the long coastline of India and the status of natural hazard preparedness
in these areas, factors responsible for diversity of Natural Vegetation in India,
significance of wildlife sanctuaries in rainforest regions of India, human development,
India food production. In 2022, questions delved into topics like the characteristics and
types of primary rocks, ocean currents, fishing industry of the world, atmospheric
layer. The 2021 examination included a question regarding the alignment of major
mountain ranges of the world and their impact on local weather conditions, the
difference between the causes of landslides in the Himalayan region and Western
Ghats. In 2020, there were questions from topics like geophysical characteristics of the
Circum-Pacific zone, and the interlinking of rivers.

Year Total Marks weightage

2023 100

2022 40

2021 25

2020 25

2019 15

2018 10

2017 50

2016 25

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Topic 5: Indian Society: Salient features of Indian Society, Diversity of India. Role of women
and women’s organization, population and associated issues, poverty and developmental
issues, urbanization, their problems and their remedies. Effects of globalization on Indian
society. Social empowerment, communalism, regionalism & secularism.

Key Concepts: Salient Features of Indian Society – Issues related to: Religion, communalism and
secularism - Family - Caste system and caste based discrimination - Marriage and divorce - Print, digital
and social media - Education - Women and gender based discrimination – Children - Senior citizen –
Disabled – Youth- Urban Population and Rural population - Tribal - Impact of globalization on all
social groups – Regionalism - Pluralism and Diversity of language, culture, food, institutions etc. -
Women empowerment: social reforms, women organizations and SHGs – Population: age structure,
literacy, sex ratio – Poverty and poverty line - Inequalities and exclusions - Social cause of poverty –
Poverty alleviation initiatives.

Topic 6: Physical Geography: Salient features of world’s physical geography.

Topic 8: Geophysical Phenomena: Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes,
Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc., geographical features and their location-changes
in critical geographical features (including water-bodies and ice-caps) and in flora and fauna
and the effects of such changes.

Geomorphology: Interior of the earth - Continental drift theory - Plate tectonic theory - Landform
development in karst regions, arid region, glacial region - Landforms development due to fluvial, Aeolian
and glacial action - Endogenic and Exogenic forces - Formation of fold mountains and island arcs -
Volcanism and related landforms - Earthquakes and tsunami. Cryosphere.
Oceanography: Temperature and salinity of the oceans - Ocean currents - Waves and tides - Coral
reefs and coral bleaching - EL NINO and ENSO - Sea level change - Ocean acidification – Mineral
Reserves – Deep Sea Mining - Challenges
Climatology: Composition and structure of atmosphere - Temperature and pressure belts of the
world - Atmospheric circulation- Planetary and local winds - Monsoon and jet streams - Air masses
and air front - Tropical cyclones - Temperate cyclones - Heat budget - Climate change - Urban climate
– Ozone Depletion
Biogeography: Soils: types and locations; Major biomes of the world: tropical rainforest, temperate
forests, Savanah grasslands, temperate grasslands, Desert biome, Monsoon and Mediterranean biome
- Wetlands- Mangrove vegetation. Contemporary issues.

Topic 7/ Human and Economic Geography: Distribution of key natural resources across the
world (including South Asia and the Indian sub-continent); factors responsible for the
location of primary, secondary, and tertiary sector industries in various parts of the world
(including India).

ForumIAS Offline
2nd Floor, IAPL House, 19, Pusa Road, Karol Bagh, New Delhi – 110005 |Call: 9821711605|[email protected]|
Human and Economic Geography: Distribution of key natural resources across the world
(including South Asia and the Indian sub-continent): Minerals: Iron, Aluminum, Manganese, Lead, Zinc,
Copper, Uranium, Rare earth metals – Energy resources: Coal, Oil and natural Gas – non-conventional
energy resources: Coal bed methane, Shale gas etc. - Renewable Energy resources: Solar energy, wind
energy, geothermal etc.
Factors responsible for the location of primary, secondary, and tertiary sector industries in various
parts of the world (including India): Iron and steel, Automobile, Cotton, Fertilizer, Pharmaceuticals etc.
Indian Agriculture. Population and settlement geography: growth, distribution and demographic
attributes - demographic dividend- Urbanization, Migration – problems in urbans and rural areas –
Slums - Urban sprawl – Urban Infrastructure-Industrial Corridors.
Geopolitics. Space.

ForumIAS Offline
2nd Floor, IAPL House, 19, Pusa Road, Karol Bagh, New Delhi – 110005 |Call: 9821711605|[email protected]|