ENSO ACADEMY

AN “IMPECCABLE CHOICE” FOR DOING “PREPARATION WITH AWARENESS”

NOTE
Marks have been modified in this compilation for the questions asked before
2013, as earlier UPSC (before 2013 & 2014) used to ask questions for 60 marks, 30
marks, 25 marks and short note questions for 20 marks. But since 2014 UPSC is
asking 10 marks, 15 marks and 20 marks questions only. So, we have adjusted
the marks of those questions (before 2013) to 10, 15 and 20 marks according
to the scope of the question, to make the aspirants to get adapted and to
process his/her knowledge to meet the present demand of UPSC.
This compilation contains the questions of past 45 Years (1980-2024) which
have been arranged as much as possible according to the topics given in syllabus
under each chapter.
There are few concepts which are highly interlinked, complementary and
overlapped between/among the chapters and within the chapters of the given
syllabus. We tried to segregate as much as possible according to our best knowledge.
If any one finds any discrepancies, please follow your judgement only.

Space and Word limit for questions:

For 10 Mark Question - 2 Pages Space & 150 words
For 15 Mark Question – 3 Pages Space & Approximately 200-250 words
(If not mentioned specifically in Question Paper)
For 20 Mark Question –4 Pages Space & Approximately 250-300 words
(If not mentioned specifically in Question Paper)

“LEARN the SKILL of ANSWERING the QUESTION DEMAND” rather than merely writing answers
 ENSO ACADEMY
AN “IMPECCABLE CHOICE” FOR DOING “PREPARATION WITH AWARENESS”

INTEND BEHIND GENESIS OF THIS COMPILATION

There are many misconceptions about Geography Optional both with regard to the
syllabus and the questions being asked by the UPSC. Only very few of them may be
true, but majorly they are result of wrong propaganda around Geography and
ignorance of Aspirants w.r.t Syllabus and PYQ. There were some years where, few
questions asked by UPSC are really difficult to answer from conventional books, but
that’s not the case always.
Through the detailed analysis of Syllabus and PYQ we came to understand that the
problem is not with the subject of Geography as much as it is with the aspirant’s
clarity, capability and approach towards the subject and his/her false
beliefs/illusions (with which he/she carry forward their preparation).
At present most of the aspirants are relying on short-cuts in preparation (like rather
than referring to standard books for understanding concepts, they are reading
institutions material, class notes and some model answers and having an illusionary
belief that they are preparing well without analysing their real position w.r.t Syllabus
and PYQ). Only few aspirants are assessing their preparation efficiency in reality
with the help of the guiding lights provided by UPSC i.e., Syllabus and PYQ.
In these times of digitalisation aspirants are struggling with the vast ocean of
resources flashing in front of them and being in the confusion of what to read and
how to read. As a consequence of it they suffering with lack of confidence about
their ability. And the major factor for this situation is IGNORANCE about his/her
abilities, IGNORANCE about Syllabus, PYQ & UPSC Demand and being in the trap
of MARKET oriented EASY preparation strategies (which are inefficient and
insufficient in reality).
To do preparation with AWARENESS and CONFIDENCE (Clarity and
Consolidation), the potential way is to own SYLLABUS AND PYQ as SACRED
GUIDELINES (which can guide your preparation in real manner). It’s just that you
have to be ready to utilize them.
ENSO ACADEMY through this compilation is intended to bring a little bit of such
AWARENESS into your preparation if you are ready for that.

“LEARN the SKILL of ANSWERING the QUESTION DEMAND” rather than merely writing answers
 ENSO ACADEMY
AN “IMPECCABLE CHOICE” FOR DOING “PREPARATION WITH AWARENESS”

MAIN OBJECTIVES OF THIS COMPILATION

 To give the aspirant a glimpse of understanding about the language of

questionaries asked by the UPSC.

 To provide a reference through which the aspirant can check his/her

understanding of the concepts and his/her abilities to decipher the demand of
the questions and to make a framework for answers.

 To serve as a reference for checking the suitability of material in terms of its

sufficiency both w.r.t to content and the applied & contemporary dimension to
answer the previous year questions.

 Also, to help the aspirant to understand the need of having a thorough

understanding of contemporary issues and examples and linking/updating them
with the static syllabus.

 And to also make the aspirant aware of whether his understanding of a concept
is holistic/multi-dimensional or is limited to what is given in materials/class
notes/or the so-called model answers provided by different institutions.

UPSC GEOGRAPHY OPTIONAL PAPER-I QUESTION PAPER SPECIFIC

INSTRUCTIONS

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 ENSO ACADEMY
AN “IMPECCABLE CHOICE” FOR DOING “PREPARATION WITH AWARENESS”

Chapter Wise Marks Trend (2014-2024)

(Total Marks: 8×50=400)
SECTION-A: 4× 50 = 200 Marks

Year→
2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
Chapter↓

65 60 60 55 55
45 50 45 45 45
(10+20 (10+20 (10+15 30 (10+10 (10+15
Geomorphology +15+ +15+
(10+20
+20+ (10+20) +15+
(10+20 (10+20
+15+
(10+20 (10+20
+15) +20) +15) +15) +15)
20) 15) 15) 20) 15)

60 60 60 60
45 45 45 45 45 45
(10+15 (10+15 40 (10+15 (10+15
Climatology (10+15
+20+ +15+ (20+20)
(10+15 (10+15 (10+20 (10+20
+20+ +20+
(10+15
+20) +20) +20) +15) +15) +20)
15) 20) 15) 15)

40 45 35 40 40 45 25
30 25
Oceanography (10+15 10 (10+15 (10+10
(10+20)
15 (10+15 (10+15
(10+15)
(10+15 (10+
+15) +20) +15) +15) +15) +20) 15)

40 40
40
25 25 (10+15 25 25 (10+15 25 30 25
Biogeography (10+15)
15
(10+15) + (10+15) (10+15) + (10+15) (10+20) (10+15)
(10+15
+ 15)
15) 15)

55 70 60
40 45 45
(10+10 25 25 (10+15 (10+20 30 25
Environmental (10+15
+15+ (10+15) (10+15) +15+15 +15+
15 (10+20
(10+20) (10+15)
(10+15
Geography +15) +15) +20)
20) +15) 15)

Self- Analysis:

“LEARN the SKILL of ANSWERING the QUESTION DEMAND” rather than merely writing answers
 ENSO ACADEMY
AN “IMPECCABLE CHOICE” FOR DOING “PREPARATION WITH AWARENESS”

SECTION- B: 4× 50 = 200 Marks

Year→
2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
Chapter↓
110
Perspectives 80
40 45 40 (10+20 45 45
(10+20 30 30 25 25
in Human (10+15
+15+15
(10+20 (10+10 +15+15 (10+20
(15+15) (10+20)
(10+20
(10+15) (10+15)
Geography +15) +15) +20) +15+20 +15) +15)
+20)
+15)
50
40 45 35 45 40 45
Economic 25 25 25 25 (10+10
(10+15 (10+20 (10+10 (10+15 (10+15 (10+20+
Geography (10+15) (10+15) (10+15) (10+15) +15+
+15) +15) +15) +20) +15) 15)
15)
Population 55 60 60 60
40 50 60
and 30 25 (10+10 (15+15 25 (10+15 30 (10+15
(10+10 (10+20 (10+20+
Settlement (10+20) (10+15) +15+ +15+ (10+15) +20+ (15+15) +20+
+20) +20) 15+15)
20) 15) 15) 15)
Geography
65
40 30
Regional 30 25 (10+20 25 25 25
(10+15 (15+15) 00 10 10
Planning (10+20) (10+15) +15+ (10+15) (10+15) (10+15)
+15)
20)

Models, 60 80 60
45 45 50 40 45
Theories and 30 20 (10+15 (10+20 25 (10+20
(10+20 (10+15 (10+20 (10+15 (10+15+
Laws in (20+10) (10+10) +20+ +15+15 (10+15) +15+
+15) +20) +20) +15) 20)
15) +20) 15)
Human
Geography

Self- Analysis:

“LEARN the SKILL of ANSWERING the QUESTION DEMAND” rather than merely writing answers
 ENSO ACADEMY
AN “IMPECCABLE CHOICE” FOR DOING “PREPARATION WITH AWARENESS”

Section-A

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 READ the ‘QUESTION’ with “AWARENESS” &
“ANALYSE” to UNDERSTAND the “QUESTION DEMAND”

Geomorphology
Syllabus:

Factors controlling landform development; endogenetic and exogenetic forces; Origin and evolution
of the earth’s crust; Fundamentals of geomagnetism; Physical conditions of the earth’s interior;
Geosynclines; Continental drift; Isostasy; Plate tectonics; Recent views on mountain building;
Vulcanicity; Earthquakes and Tsunamis; Concepts of geomorphic cycles and Landscape development
; Denudation chronology; Channel morphology; Erosion surfaces; Slope development; Applied
Geomorphology : Geohydrology, economic geology and environment.

Year 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
65 60 60 55 55
45 50 45 45 45
(10+20 (10+20 (10+15 30 (10+10 (10+15
Marks +15+ +15+
(10+20
+20+ (10+20) +15+
(10+20 (10+20
+15+
(10+20 (10+20
+15) +20) +15) +15) +15)
20) 15) 15) 20) 15)

Reference Books/Materials:

Chapter Awareness & Preparation Strategy: (Nature of Questions and the Approach to be
followed) (gained through PYQ Analysis)

“LEARN the SKILL of ANSWERING the QUESTION DEMAND” rather than merely writing answers
 READ the ‘QUESTION’ with “AWARENESS” &
“ANALYSE” to UNDERSTAND the “QUESTION DEMAND”

Physical conditions of the earth’s interior;

1. Write short notes on Role of seismic waves in the study of earth’s interior. 10 Marks <2005>
2. Bring out the relevance of seismic study in determining the structure of the interior of the
earth. 15 Marks <2010>

Fundamentals of geomagnetism;
1. Write short notes on Geomagnetism and Paleomagnetism. 10 Marks <2011>

Origin and evolution of the earth’s crust; Continental drift; Plate tectonics;

1. Write short notes on the Impact of Pleistocene Ice Age on the crust of Earth. 10 Marks <2013>
2. State, in detail, and appraise fully the arguments in favour of and against the theory of
Continental Drift. 20 Marks <1980>
3. Critically evaluate the continental drift hypothesis of A. Wegner. 20 Marks <2006>
4. Write short notes on Paleozoic glacial evidence for Continental Drift. 10 Marks <2012>
5. Critically analyse the concept of plate tectonics and bring out the evidences to support it.
20 Marks <1988>
6. Write short notes on Plate tectonics. 10 Marks <1990>
7. Compare and contrast different types of plate boundaries. 15 Marks <2019>
8. Discuss the limitations of the theory of Continental Drift and show how the theory of plate
tectonics is an improvement over it. 20 Marks <1995>
9. Bring out the distinctions between the ‘continental drift’ theory and the ‘plate tectonics’
theory. 20 Marks <1999>
10. Write short notes on Seafloor spreading theory. 10 Marks <2008>
11. “Offshore Acoustic study helped the development of the concept of sea floor spreading.”
Explain. 20 Marks <2013>
12. “Evidences from Palaeomagnetism and seafloor spreading have validated that continents
and ocean basins have never been stationary”. Elucidate with suitable diagrams. 20 Marks
<2023>
13. Write an essay on the evolution of continents and oceans using various theories and models.
20 Marks <2020>
14. The concept of Plate tectonics has been derived from the isostasy and continental drift
theory. Elaborate citing suitable examples. 20 Marks <2021>

Isostasy;
1. Present a critical analysis of the theory of Isostasy. 20 Marks <2001>
2. Define the concept of Isostasy and discuss the postulations of Airy and Pratt. 20 Marks
<2007>
3. Explain the concept of Isostasy as postulated by Airy and Pratt. 20 Marks <2011>

Endogenetic and exogenetic forces;

1. Discuss the character of the main types of force and earth movements, involved in the
production of land forms. 20 Marks <1985>
2. Write short notes on Classification of Earth Movements. 10 Marks <1992>
3. Write short notes on Geomorphic processes. 10 Marks <1998>
4. Attempt a classification of geomorphic processes from zonal point of view. 10 Marks <2015>
5. Discuss with examples, the influence of volcanism and diastrophism on the evolution of
landscape. 20 Marks <1993>

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 READ the ‘QUESTION’ with “AWARENESS” &
“ANALYSE” to UNDERSTAND the “QUESTION DEMAND”

6. Describe the landforms which are products of endogenetic forces. 20 Marks <2004>
7. Discuss the processes of mechanical and chemical weathering and show their relationship
with soil formation. 20 Marks <1996>
8. Write short notes on Weathering and soil formation. 10 Marks <1997>
9. “Weathering is a complex phenomenon involving a number of processes and is influenced by
various factors.” Elaborate. 15 Marks <2010>
10. Name the climatically controlled agents of erosion. Explain how they differ in terms of
properties of matter. Compare the landforms produced by each one of them. 20 Marks
<2011>
11. Explain weathering and mass wasting, and describe their geomorphic significance.
20 Marks <2014>

Geosynclines;
1. Write short notes on Geosyncline. 10 Marks <2002>

Recent views on mountain building;

1. Discuss the mountain building process in the world with a special reference to the origin of
the Himalayas. 20 Marks <1982>
2. Discuss the mountain-building processes with suitable examples. 20 Marks <1984>
3. With reference to the theory of Plate Tectonics, explain the origin and growth of young fold
mountain systems of the world. 20 Marks <2000>
4. State the concept of plate tectonics. How does it help in explaining the formation of the
Himalayas and Appalachian Mountains? 20 Marks <2014>
5. Evaluate how far Kober’s geosynclinal theory explains the mountain building process.
20 Marks <2018>
6. With the help of suitable sketches describe the mountain genesis and mountain types. Give
suitable examples from various mountain systems of the world. 15 Marks <2022>
7. Examine the recent views on mountain building process and divide the world mountains on
the basis of their genesis. 20 Marks <2024>

Vulcanicity; Earthquakes and Tsunamis;

1. Discuss the concept of vulcanicity and show how the theory of Plate Tectonics explains the
mechanism of volcanism and volcanic eruptions. 20 Marks <1998>
2. Write a note on pseudovolcanic features. 10 Marks <2017>
3. Describe the phreatic eruptions and their consequences. 10 Marks <2019>
4. Discuss the methods of measuring the intensity and magnitude of earthquakes. How are
seismic zones demarcated? 20 Marks <2019>

Concepts of geomorphic cycles and Landscape development;

1. Discuss the views of W.M. Davis and Walter Penck on the cycle of erosion. 20 Marks <1986>
2. Discuss the concept of cycle of erosion and bring out clearly the difference between the views
of Davis and Penck. 20 Marks <1994>
3. Provide a critique of the ‘geographical cycle’ model propounded by Davis. 20 Marks <2002>
4. Critically examine the concept of geomorphic cycle& discuss the views of W.M. Davis and W.
Penck. 20 Marks <2008>
5. Write short notes on differences between Normal cycle and Arid cycle of Davis. 10 Marks
<2013>

“LEARN the SKILL of ANSWERING the QUESTION DEMAND” rather than merely writing answers
 READ the ‘QUESTION’ with “AWARENESS” &
“ANALYSE” to UNDERSTAND the “QUESTION DEMAND”

6. Explain the characteristics of the standard epigene cycle of erosion. 20 Marks <2012>
7. “In explaining the concept of ‘Pediplanation’, King combined the ideas of Davis, Penck and
Wood with his own.” Elaborate. 20 Marks <2016>
8. Write short notes on Peneplain. 10 Marks <1982> <2004>
9. Define Peneplains. Describe the landscape features associated with peneplains under
different geomorphic cycles. 15 Marks <2023>
10. Discuss the contributions of the American School of Subaerial Denudation in
geomorphology. 20 Marks <2015>
11. Write short note on polycyclic landforms. 10 Marks <1983>
12. Write Short notes on Rejuvenated landforms. 10 Marks <1989>
13. Write Short note on polycyclic landforms. 10 Marks <1991>
14. Explain the factors causing rejuvenation in landscape and describe the resultant landforms.
20 Marks <1992>
15. Discuss the concept of polycyclic landforms and present an analytical study of the polycyclic
landforms of a region. 20 Marks <1997>
16. Highlight the geomorphic features essentially found in topographies under the Second Cycle
of Erosion. 15 Marks <2009>
17. Define the term ‘meander’ and describe the basic characteristics of entrenched meander and
ingrown meander. 10 Marks <2014>
18. “Present-day landforms bear more complexity than simplicity.” Elucidate. 15 Marks <2015>
19. Write short notes on Treppen concept. 10 Marks <1993>
20. What is ‘Base level’? Explain types of base level. 15 Marks <2013>
21. Write short note: The typical feature in a region of limestone rocks. 10 Marks <1981>
22. Analyse the sequential development of landforms in either karst or coastal region.
20 Marks <1991>
23. Explain the sequential development of landforms associated with coastal areas. 20 Marks
<2003>
24. Write short notes on Karst landforms. 10 Marks <1984>
25. Write short notes on Karst landforms. 10 Marks <1988>
26. Write short notes on Essential conditions for the development of karst topography.
10 Marks <2010>
27. Define ‘speleothem’. Discuss the various forms and features of speleothems. 10 Marks
<2022>
28. How are sandspits and tombolos formed? 10 Marks <2019>
29. Discuss the evolution and characteristics of the landforms of the glaciated regions.
20 Marks <1987>
30. Describe the “Basket of eggs topography”. 10 Marks <2016>
31. What are ‘truncated spurs’? Where and how are they formed? 10 Marks <2024>
32. Discuss the concept of Periglacial cycle as propounded by Peltier. 20 Marks <2017>
33. Describe the concept of ‘Altiplanation’. 10 Marks <2021>
34. Write short notes on Systems approach to landform analysis. 10 Marks <2012>

Erosion surfaces; Denudation chronology;

1. State the concept of erosion surfaces and highlight the factors responsible for their
development. 15 Marks <2014>
2. Discuss the problems of erosion surfaces and explain the different methods to identify them
with suitable diagrams. 20 Marks <2020>

“LEARN the SKILL of ANSWERING the QUESTION DEMAND” rather than merely writing answers
 READ the ‘QUESTION’ with “AWARENESS” &
“ANALYSE” to UNDERSTAND the “QUESTION DEMAND”

Slope development;
1. Analyse the differences in the models of slope evolution proposed by Davis and Penck. 20
Marks <1990>
2. Discuss views on slope development provided by L.C. King. 15 Marks <2009>
3. Explain how Bosche and Haldenhang lead to the Theory of Slope Replacement.
20 Marks <2012>
4. “The knowledge of slope analysis has limited field application in the slope management.”
Explain. 15 Marks <2017>

Channel morphology;
1. Explain with examples as to how channel dynamics has been responsible for the development
of alluvial fans and cones. 15 Marks <2015>
2. “Climate, slope gradient and rock structure influence the avulsion of channels.” Explain.
15 Marks <2017>
3. Stream basins and drainage divides are important components to delineate a watershed area.
Explain. 15 Marks <2021>
4. Explain how various aspects of channel morphology are used in transportation, settlement
and land use planning, flood control and flood management? 15 Marks <2022>
5. What is a Yazoo stream? Why are Yazoo basins the areas of repeated flooding? Give examples
of Yazoo stream/areas from various parts of the world. 15 Marks <2024>

Factors controlling landform development;

1. 'Landscape is the function of structure, process and stage.' Discuss. 20 Marks <1983>
2. “Landscape is a function of structure, process and stage.” Critique the statement. 10 Marks
<2018>
3. Structure is a dominant control factor in the evolution of landforms. Discuss with suitable
examples. 20 Marks <2005>
4. “Geological structure has a dominant control on landforms and is reflected on them.” Discuss.
15 Marks <2016>
5. Discuss the role of Slope, Altitude and Relief (SAR) in landscape development. 15 Marks
<2022>

Applied Geomorphology: Geohydrology, economic geology and environment.

1. Why is mapping important for analysing geo-hydrological investigations? 10 Marks <2020>

2. What are the environmental implications of economic geology? Discuss. 10 Marks <2023>

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 READ the ‘QUESTION’ with “AWARENESS” &
“ANALYSE” to UNDERSTAND the “QUESTION DEMAND”

Climatology
Syllabus:

Temperature and pressure belts of the world; Heat budget of the earth; Atmospheric circulation;
atmospheric stability and instability, Planetary and local winds; Monsoons and jet streams; Air
masses and frontogenesis, Temperate and tropical cyclones; Types and distribution of precipitation;
Weather and Climate; Koppen’s, Thornthwaite’s and Trewartha’s classification of world climates;
Hydrological cycle; Global climatic change and role and response of man in climatic changes, Applied
climatology and Urban climate.

Year 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
60 60 60 60
45 45 45 45 45 45
(10+15 (10+15 40 (10+15 (10+15
Marks (10+15
+20+ +15+ (20+20)
(10+15 (10+15 (10+20 (10+20
+20+ +20+
(10+15
+20) +20) +20) +15) +15) +20)
15) 20) 15) 15)

Reference Books/Materials:

Chapter Awareness & Preparation Strategy: (Nature of Questions and the Approach to be
followed) (gained through PYQ Analysis)

“LEARN the SKILL of ANSWERING the QUESTION DEMAND” rather than merely writing answers
 READ the ‘QUESTION’ with “AWARENESS” &
“ANALYSE” to UNDERSTAND the “QUESTION DEMAND”

Temperature and pressure belts of the world; Heat budget of the earth;
atmospheric stability and instability; Atmospheric circulation;

1. Discuss the complete mechanism by means of which the atmosphere is able to maintain its
heat-balance. Is the atmosphere getting progressively hotter, and if so, why? 20 Marks
<1980>
2. Discuss the nature and composition of earth’s atmosphere. 20 Marks <1998>
3. Differentiate between insolation and temperature and explain anomalous temperature.
10 Marks <2016>
4. Describe how short-term variations in temperature are related to the processes of receiving
energy from the sun to the Earth’s surface and dissipating it to the atmosphere. 15 Marks
<2022>
5. Write short notes on Tropical atmospheric instability. 10 Marks <2009>
6. Write short notes on Inversion of Temperature. 10 Marks <1995>
7. Write short notes on Inversion of temperature. 10 Marks <2010>
8. How does inversion of temperature occur? Explain its significance on local weather with
suitable examples. 15 Marks <2023>
9. Discuss the forces which govern the air movement on the Earth’s surface. 20 Marks <2017>
10. What is “Geostrophic Wind”? Explain the relationship between barometric slope and air
circulation. 10 Marks <2023>
11. Discuss the mechanism and significance of tricellular meridional circulation of atmosphere.
20 Marks <2003>
12. Explain the meridional circulation of the atmosphere and its importance in world climate.
15 Marks <2015>
13. Discuss in detail the tri-cellular model of atmospheric circulation. 20 Marks <2019>

Planetary and local winds;

1. Discuss the development of local winds and their influence on local weather, giving three
examples of the well-known local winds in the world. 20 Marks <2007>
2. With suitable examples, bring out the impact of local winds on the climate of an area.
20 Marks <2013>
3. Discuss the salient features of ‘sirocco’ and ‘mistral’. 10 Marks <2014>
4. What are the causes of origin of local winds? Discuss their significance on prevailing
weather and climate in various regions, with suitable examples. 20 Marks <2023>
5. Write a geographical note on Halloween Storm. 10 Marks <2020> (ambiguity is there
regarding this question, it can also be a geomorphology related question if geomagnetic storm
meaning is assigned to Halloween Storm)

Monsoons and jet streams;

1. With particular reference to India, explain the origin of the "monsoon". Describe and account
for the World distribution of monsoon climates, bringing out the significant differences
between each of them. 20 Marks <1981>
2. Discuss the mechanism and origin of monsoon winds and explain the role of El Nino on
Monsoon circulation. 20 Marks <2008>
3. Discuss the nature and origin of Indian monsoon and recent techniques of its prediction.
20 Marks <2014>
4. Explain the origin, progress and retreat of Indian monsoon and discuss its impact on the
Indian economy. 20 Marks <2018>

“LEARN the SKILL of ANSWERING the QUESTION DEMAND” rather than merely writing answers
 READ the ‘QUESTION’ with “AWARENESS” &
“ANALYSE” to UNDERSTAND the “QUESTION DEMAND”

5. Explain how various factors influence the origin and development of the Indian monsoon
system. 20 Marks <2020>
6. Write short note on Jet stream. 10 Marks <1983>
7. Write short notes on Rossby waves and Jet Stream. 10 Marks <2011>

Air masses and frontogenesis,

1. Write short note on Air masses. 10 Marks <1982>
2. Attempt a classification of air masses and give the characteristic features and associated
weather conditions of each class. 20 Marks <1988>
3. Discuss the origin, movements and characteristics of air masses and explain their role in
influencing world climates. 20 Marks <1992>
4. Define air masses. How do they originate? Classify them and state the characteristics of any
one type. 20 Marks <1997>
5. Discuss the concept of air masses and present their classification. 20 Marks <2001>
6. Classify airmasses and explain how ‘cP’ airmass affects global climate. 20 Marks <2012>
7. What are the important factors responsible for airmass modifications? 10 Marks <2021>
8. With suitable examples describe the impacts of movement of airmasses on weather and winds
in different parts of the continents. 15 Marks <2022>
9. Explain air masses and associated weather dynamics. How do air masses influence the
weather conditions of the Northern Hemisphere? 20 Marks <2024>
10. Discuss the concept of warm and cold fronts and the weather associated with them.
20 Marks <1984>
11. Discuss as to how frontogenesis contributes to weather instability. 10 Marks <2015>
12. Explain the characteristic features of Frontogenesis and Frontolysis. 15 Marks <2020>

Types and distribution of precipitation;

1. Give an account of the types and distribution of precipitation on the surface of the earth.
20 Marks <2000>
2. Examine the various kinds of atmospheric humidity and their associated forms. 20 Marks
<2010>
3. Give an account of global distribution of precipitation. 20 Marks <2011>
4. Discuss Dew point and the various forms of condensation. 15 Marks <2013>
5. Examine major influencing factors for varied patterns of precipitations on the continents.
20 Marks <2021>

Temperate and tropical cyclones;

1. Discuss critically the characteristics of tropical cyclones and analyse the extent to which they
differ from the temperate cyclones. 20 Marks <1987>
2. Explain the origin, characteristics and distribution of temperate cyclones. 20 Marks <1989>
3. Explain and illustrate the life-cycle of a temperate cyclone and also describe the weather
associated with it. 20 Marks <1995>
4. What is polar front and how does cyclone develop along this front? Describe the weather
conditions associated with it. 20 Marks <2010>
5. Formation of temperate cyclone depends on the condition of axis of dilation. Elucidate.
10 Marks <2024>
6. Explain the origin, characteristics and distribution of tropical cyclones. 20 Marks <1991>
7. Make a comparative study of the tropical and temperate cyclones. 20 Marks <1999>

“LEARN the SKILL of ANSWERING the QUESTION DEMAND” rather than merely writing answers
 READ the ‘QUESTION’ with “AWARENESS” &
“ANALYSE” to UNDERSTAND the “QUESTION DEMAND”

8. Compare the structure and associated weather conditions of tropical cyclone with that of
temperate cyclone. 20 Marks <2006>
9. Compare and contrast tropical cyclone and temperate cyclone. 10 Marks <2012>
10. Compare the origin and weather conditions associated with the tropical and temperate
cyclones. 15 Marks <2016>
11. Describe the origin and development of thunderstorms with examples. 15 Marks <2014>
12. Explain the characteristics and weather conditions associated with ‘Anticyclones’ giving
suitable examples. 15 Marks <2023>

Hydrological cycle;
1. Write short notes on Hydrological Cycle. 10 Marks <1985>
2. Write short notes on Hydrological cycle. 10 Marks <1991>
3. Explain the role of evaporation in the hydrological cycle. 10 Marks <2018>

Koppen’s, Thornthwaite’s and Trewartha’s classification of world climates;

1. Compare the basis of the climatic classification of Koppen with that of Thornthwaite's
classification. 20 Marks <1986>
2. Explain the basis of Koppen’s classification of climates. Also mention its merits and
limitations. 20 Marks <1994>
3. Write short notes on Cs type of climate, as per Koppen’s classification. 10 Marks <1999>
4. Discuss the main features of the climatic classification system evolved by Koppen. Also point
out its anomalies. 20 Marks <2005>
5. Discuss the basis of Koppen’s climatic classification. Bring out the salient characteristics of
‘Cs’ type of climate. 20 Marks <2015>
6. Describe latitudinal distribution of Koppen’s classification of world climate. 15 Marks
<2024>
7. Examine critically the drawbacks of Koppen’s classification of climates. Explain how
Thornthwaite attempted to overcome Koppen’s limitations. 20 Marks <1996>
8. Explain the basic criteria used in Thornthwaite’s 1948 classification of climates. 20 Marks
<1990>
9. Discuss the criteria which Thornthwaite adopted for his 1948 classification of world climates.
20 Marks <2002>
10. Write short notes on Potential evapotranspiration. 10 Marks <2004>
11. What is potential evapotranspiration? Explain how it is used in assessing the water balance
in an area. 15 Marks <2015>
12. Explain the techniques to calculate potential evapotranspiration suggested by
Thornthwaite.
10 Marks <2019>
13. Critically examine the basis and scheme of climatic classification proposed by G.T.
Trewartha. 15 Marks <2018>

Weather and Climate; Global climatic change and role and response of man in
climatic changes;

1. How would the impact of global warming differ from one part of the earth to another? Give a
reasoned account. 20 Marks <2004>
2. Give a reasoned account on how the impact of Global Warming differs from one part of the
Earth to the other. 15 Marks <2016>

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 READ the ‘QUESTION’ with “AWARENESS” &
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3. Explain the factors contributing to the global climate change. 15 Marks <2009>
4. Discuss the consequences of Climate Change on agriculture and food security, and on the
Coastal Zones of the World. 15 Marks <2009>
5. “Contemporary global climate change is an anthropogenic phenomenon.” Discuss.
20 Marks <2011>
6. Write about Impact of Cryosphere on global climate. 15 Marks <2012>
7. Discuss the significance of World Climate Research Programme and its core projects in the
understanding of climate change. 20 Marks <2016>
8. “Climate Change is a reality.” Explain with suitable examples. 20 Marks <2017>
9. Explaining the concept of carbon neutrality, describe the measures taken by carbon positive
and negative nations. 15 Marks <2021>
10. Rise of surface temperature brings severe consequences. Elaborate the potential changes
and threats associated with it in the world. 20 Marks <2022>

Applied climatology and urban climate.

1. How does Climate Change affect urban areas? 15 Marks <2009>

2. Explain the nature of urban climates and their impact on global environmental change.
15 Marks <2019>
3. What is pollution dome? Discuss its formation and impacts. 10 Marks <2022>

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 READ the ‘QUESTION’ with “AWARENESS” &
“ANALYSE” to UNDERSTAND the “QUESTION DEMAND”

Oceanography
Syllabus:

Bottom topography of the Atlantic, Indian and Pacific Oceans; Temperature and salinity of the
oceans; Heat and salt budgets, Ocean deposits; Waves, currents and tides; Marine resources: biotic,
mineral and energy resources; Coral reefs, coral bleaching; sea-level changes; law of the sea and
marine pollution.

Year 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024

40 45 35 40 40 45
30 25 25
Marks (10+15 10 (10+15 (10+10
(10+20)
15 (10+15 (10+15
(10+15)
(10+15
(10+15)
+15) +20) +15) +15) +15) +20)

Reference Books/Materials:

Chapter Awareness & Preparation Strategy: (Nature of Questions and the Approach to be
followed) (gained through PYQ Analysis)

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 READ the ‘QUESTION’ with “AWARENESS” &
“ANALYSE” to UNDERSTAND the “QUESTION DEMAND”

Bottom topography of the Atlantic, Indian and Pacific Oceans;

1. Write short notes on Ocean bottom relief. 10 Marks <1989>
2. Draw a hypsographic curve to represent the major physiographic units of the ocean and
comment on their permanency. 20 Marks <1991>
3. Write short notes on Submarine canyons. 10 Marks <1999>
4. Give a reasoned account of the content of the Atlantic Ocean and their impact on the climatic
conditions of the coastal regions. 20 Marks <1987>
5. Explain and illustrate the ocean floor topography and give a detailed account of the mid-
Atlantic ridge. 20 Marks <1996>
6. Explain and illustrate the sub marine relief of the Atlantic Ocean. 20 Marks <1998>
7. Discuss the mid-Atlantic ridge in terms of the origin, extent and relief. 20 Marks <2004>
8. Explain the scientifically sound methods of bathymetry and give an account of the bottom
topography of the Atlantic Ocean. 20 Marks <2010>
9. Present a concise account of bottom relief of the Indian Ocean. 20 Marks <2003>
10. With suitable sketches elaborate the bottom topography of the Indian Ocean. 15 Marks
<2024>
11. Describe the configuration of the Pacific Ocean Floor. 15 Marks <2017>
12. Give a detailed account of bottom topography of the Pacific Ocean. 15 Marks <2021>

Temperature and salinity of the oceans; Heat and salt budgets;

1. Give a reasoned account of the distribution of salinity in the oceans and partially enclosed
seas. 20 Marks <1993>
2. Write short notes on T-S diagram. 10 Marks <2000>
3. Write short notes on Salinity patterns in Indian Ocean. 10 Marks <2011>
4. Comment on marine heat budget and the oceanic circulation system. 15 Marks <2009>
5. Temperature, salinity and density differences in ocean water are the prime causes of ocean
water circulation. Elaborate. 20 Marks <2011>
6. Write short notes on Different layers of ocean water above abyssal plain. 10 Marks <2012>
7. Discuss the hazards associated with rise of sea-surface temperature. 10 Marks <2021>

Ocean deposits;
1. Present the classification of Oceanic deposits and account for the origin, types and
distribution of Pelagic deposits in the World Oceans. 20 Marks <1981>
2. Discuss the sources and nature of various deposit found on the floor of the oceans.
20 Marks <1985>
3. Write short notes on Pelagic deposits. 10 Marks <1986>
4. Write short notes on Pelagic deposits. 10 Marks <2004>
5. Discuss the different bases for classifying the ocean deposits and give a detailed account of
pelagic deposits of the oceans. 20 Marks <2007>
6. Write short notes on Ocean deposits. 10 Marks <2010>
7. Describe the characteristics of different types of pelagic deposits. 10 Marks <2015>

Marine resources: biotic, mineral and energy resources;

1. Discuss different types of marine resources and mention their possible utilization. 20 Marks
<1983>
2. Write short notes on marine resources. 10 Marks <1984>

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 READ the ‘QUESTION’ with “AWARENESS” &
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3. Give an account of marine resources and discuss their present-day utilization. 20 Marks
<1986>
4. Write short notes on Food from the sea. 10 Marks <1995>
5. Write short notes on Marine resources, biotic, mineral and energy resources. 10 Marks
<1997>
6. Analyse the reasons for a comparatively poorer development of fishing grounds in tropical
areas. 15 Marks <2013>
7. What is ocean ranching? How are aqua-cowboys related to such activities? 10 Marks <2023>
8. Bring out the various ecological problems associated with the exploitation and use of oceans
and their resources. 20 Marks <2016>
9. Describe the potential marine energy resources with reference to their benefits, harvestability,
environmental impacts. 20 Marks <2018>
10. Marine resources are economically very significant. Discus citing suitable examples.
10 Marks <2020>
11. Give an account of marine resources and their economic significance. How has marine
pollution affected such resources? 20 Marks <2023>
12. Examine economic significance of the resources of the Continental Shelf of the Indian
Ocean. 15 Marks <2009>

Waves, currents and tides;

1. How are ocean waves formed? Distinguish between a wave of oscillation and wave of
translation. 15 Marks <2019>
2. Differentiate Storm Surges and Seiches. 10 Marks <2013>
3. Distinguish between low energy coasts and coral coasts. 10 Marks <2017>
4. Write short note: Cold water coasts. 10 Marks <1981>
5. Describe and account for the surface currents of the Indian Ocean and explain how and why
they differ from those of the Atlantic. 20 Marks <1980>
6. "In the northern part of the Indian ocean there is a complete reversal of currents between
winter and summer as a result of the alternating monsoon winds." Discuss. 20 Marks
<1982>
7. “The relationship between the winds and the currents is best seen in the Indian Ocean.”
Justify. 15 Marks <2016>
8. Write short notes on Ocean currents of Northern Atlantic Ocean. 10 Marks <2006>
9. Explain the currents of the North Atlantic Ocean and their significant role in the climate of
Western Europe. 15 Marks <2020>
10. How are ocean currents are generated? Discuss their effects on coastal climates with special
reference to the Pacific Ocean. 15 Marks <2023>
11. Discuss the impacts of ocean currents on air mass behaviour. 10 Marks <2017>
12. What is the relationship between ocean currents and global surface wind systems? Explain
with examples how does the gyre in the Northern Hemisphere differ from the one in the
Southern Hemisphere. 15 Marks <2022>
13. Illustrate the origin and nature of Sargasso Sea and Lagoon. 10 Marks <2014>

Coral reefs, coral bleaching;

1. Write short notes on coral reefs. 10 Marks <1988>
2. Discuss the theories of formation of coral reefs proposed by Daly, Darwin and Davis.
20 Marks <1990>

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3. Examine critically the theories of the formation of coral reefs and atolls. 20 Marks <1997>
4. Write short notes on formation of coral reefs. 10 Marks <2001>
5. Describe the ideal conditions for coral reef formation and discuss the glacial control theory
of coral reef formation. 20 Marks <2008>
6. “Atolls present the most challenging explanation in the evolution of coral reefs.” Discuss.
15 Marks <2012>
7. Compare the Subsidence and Glacial control theories on the formation of coral reefs.
20 Marks <2013>
8. Give an account of recent observations on coral bleaching with reference to Clive Wilkinson’s
Report. 15 Marks <2014>
9. Discuss the concept of coral bleaching, its recovery and macroalgal regime shifts due to this
process. 15 Marks <2020>
10. When corals are affected by stress it causes them to turn completely white. Explain the
reasons of such an occurrence. 10 Marks <2022>

Sea-level changes;
1. Write short notes on Eustatic changes of Sea level. 10 Marks <2007>
2. Describe the causes and consequences of sea level changes. 10 Marks <2018>
3. With suitable examples explain the factors causing sea level changes. 10 Marks <2024>

law of the sea and marine pollution.

1. Discuss Maritime Zones. 10 Marks <2016>
2. Maritime security is being neglected. Indicate the major challenges and suggest solutions in
the context of Law of the Sea. 15 Marks <2021>
3. Give a critical account of reasons and consequences of marine pollution. 15 Marks <2014>

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Biogeography
Syllabus:

Genesis of soils; Classification and distribution of soils; Soil profile; Soil erosion, Degradation and
conservation; Factors influencing world distribution of plants and animals; Problems of
deforestation and conservation measures; Social forestry; agro-forestry; Wild life; Major gene pool
centers.

Year 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024

40 40 40
25 25 25 25 25 30 25
Marks (10+15)
15
(10+15)
(10+15
(10+15) (10+15)
(10+15
(10+15) (10+20) (10+15)
(10+15
+15) +15) +15)

Reference Books/Materials:

Chapter Awareness & Preparation Strategy: (Nature of Questions and the Approach to be
followed) (gained through PYQ Analysis)

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 READ the ‘QUESTION’ with “AWARENESS” &
“ANALYSE” to UNDERSTAND the “QUESTION DEMAND”

Genesis of soils; Soil profile;

1. Write short notes on Soil genesis. 10 Marks <1998>
2. Write short notes on Genesis of Soils. 10 Marks <2003>
3. Write short notes on Soil profile. 10 Marks <2000>
4. Well-developed soils typically exhibit distinct layers in their soil profile. Elaborate. 10 Marks
<2022>
5. Differentiate between the characteristics of organic horizons and mineral horizons in a
generalised soil profile. 15 Marks <2023>
6. How are soil acidity and soil alkalinity related to soil fertility? 15 Marks <2019>

Classification and distribution of soils;

1. Classify soils of the world and discuss the distribution and characteristics of each. 20 Marks
<1985>
2. Present a classification of the soils of the world and give their economic significance.
20 Marks <1992>
3. Write short notes on distribution of soils. 10 Marks <2006>
4. Write short notes on Zonal and Azonal soils. 10 Marks <2009>
5. Write short notes on Soil profile in Zonal and Azonal soils. 10 Marks <2011>
6. Classify soils based on their zonal distribution and describe the characteristics of pedocals.
15 Marks <2015>
7. Distinguish between the characteristics of Chernozem and Seirozem soils. 15 Marks <2017>
8. Distinguish between intrazonal and azonal soils. Describe in brief the characteristics and
importance of azonal soils. 10 Marks <2018>

Soil erosion, Degradation and conservation;

1. Write short notes on Soil erosion and conservation. 10 Marks <2005>
2. “Soil erosion is creeping death.” Explaining the statement, suggest various soil conservation
measures. 15 Marks <2024>
3. Soil erosion and soil degradation are threat to food supply. Discuss. 15 Marks <2021>
4. Explain the natural processes of soil enrichment and its impact on food production. 10 Marks
<2023>
5. Write short notes on Desertification and its preventive measures. 10 Marks <1996>
6. Write short notes on Desertification as an environmental hazard. 10 Marks <2008>

Factors influencing world distribution of plants and animals; Wild life;

1. Write short notes on the Types of endemic plants and their degree of vulnerability to
extinction. 10 Marks <2013>
2. Bring out the relationship between climate and vegetation in the mountain biome. 15 Marks
<2013>
3. Give a classification of plants based on the amount of water requirement. 15 Marks <2017>
4. Describe the characteristics of biological deserts. 10 Marks <2017>
5. Amensalism is a biotic factor that determines the geographic limits of the species. Explain.
10 Marks <2019>
6. Which factors influence the growth of wild plants in India? Discuss their economic
significance. 10 Marks <2020>
7. Divide world into major biotic regions giving the basis of your division. 20 Marks <1983>
8. Write short notes on World’s biotic regions. 10 Marks <1986>

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9. Write short notes on characteristics of monsoon forests. 10 Marks <1987>

10. Divide the world into major biotic regions and explain the basis of your division. 20 Marks
<1989>
11. Indicate the major biotic regions of the world and discuss the ecological aspects of the
Monsoon region. 20 Marks <1994>
12. Give a brief account of the principal land biomes and their latitudinal distribution.15 Marks
<2009>
13. Define the term biome. List the terrestrial biomes and describe the characteristics of
Savanna biome. 20 Marks <2011>
14. State the uniqueness of the Eurasian Steppe Biome. 10 Marks <2014>
15. Bring out the ecological significance of Tropical Rainforest Biome. 10 Marks <2016>
16. Land use/Land cover and soil types influence forage quantity and quality in semi-arid
regions of the world. Discuss with relevant examples. 15 Marks <2020>
17. Write short notes on Floristic kingdoms, based on their global distribution. 15 Marks
<2010>
18. Describe Newbigin’s scheme of Floristic regions of the world and explain the Mediterranean
Floristic Region. 15 Marks <2016>
19. Write short notes on the Uniqueness of fauna in the Notogean realm. 10 Marks <2013>
20. Write about Adaptation and distribution of animals in the Ethiopian realm. 15 Marks
<2012>
21. Define zoogeographic region. Also describe the basic faunal makeup of the Neo-Arctic
zoogeographic region. 15 Marks <2014>
22. Plants and animals that exist in a particular ecosystem are those that have been successful
in adjusting to their habitat and environmental conditions. Elucidate with examples.
20 Marks <2022>
23. “The latitudinal gradient in species richness is an important geographic trend in
biodiversity.” Examine the statement. 15 Marks <2024>

Problems of deforestation and conservation measures; Social forestry; agro-

forestry;
1. Discuss the causes of degradation of tropical rainforests and suggest remedial measures for
their prevention, conservation and development. 15 Marks <2018>
2. Explain the effects and causes of deforestation, and its impact on the pattern of agriculture
in India. 15 Marks <2020>
3. Write short notes on Agroforestry. 10 Marks <2001>
4. Write short notes on social forestry and environmental conservation. 10 Marks <2007>
5. Examine the impacts of social forestry in socio-economic transformation of rural areas.
10 Marks <2024>

Major gene pool centers.

1. Gene pool centers are ‘Good Hope’ for biodiversity conservation. Elucidate. 10 Marks <2021>

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Environmental Geography

Syllabus:

Principle of ecology; Human ecological adaptations; Influence of man on ecology and environment;
Global and regional ecological changes and imbalances; Ecosystem their management and
conservation; Environmental degradation, management and conservation; Biodiversity and
sustainable development; Environmental policy; Environmental hazards and remedial measures;
Environmental education and legislation.

Year 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
55 70 60
40 45 45
(10+10 25 25 (10+15 (10+20 30 25
Marks (10+15
+15+ (10+15) (10+15) +15+15 +15+
15 (10+20
(10+20) (10+15)
(10+15
+15) +15) +20)
20) +15) 15)

Reference Books/Materials:

Chapter Awareness & Preparation Strategy: (Nature of Questions and the Approach to be
followed) (gained through PYQ Analysis)

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 READ the ‘QUESTION’ with “AWARENESS” &
“ANALYSE” to UNDERSTAND the “QUESTION DEMAND”

Principle of ecology;
1. Write short notes on Ecosystem Concept. 10 Marks <1985>
2. Write short notes on Concept of Ecosystem. 10 Marks <1992>
3. Discuss the concept, components and functioning of an ecosystem. 20 Marks <2001>
4. Give an account of the structure of ecosystem and describe its functional aspects. 20 Marks
<2010>
5. Write in detail the concept of biosphere as an ecosystem. 20 Marks <2002>
6. Give an account of the nature of biosphere as an ecosystem. 10 Marks <2014>
7. Write short notes on Biotic succession. 10 Marks <1993>
8. Explain the characteristics of ecological succession. 10 Marks <2015>

Human ecological adaptations;

1. Discuss with suitable examples the influence of environment on productive occupation in the
world. 15 Marks <1982>
2. Explain the different stages of ecological adaptation of man and bring out the changing
balance between man and development. 20 Marks <2015>
3. With suitable examples, elaborate human ecological adaptations. Explain its impacts on
ecology and environment in various parts of the world. 20 Marks <2021>

Influence of man on ecology and environment; Global and regional ecological

changes and imbalances;
1. Discuss in detail man’s impact on ecosystem as a result of the modern technological
advancement. 20 Marks <1988>
2. Define ecosystem and describe briefly its various components. Also discuss how and to what
extent the modern man has affected the various types of ecosystems. 20 Marks <1993>
3. ‘Man must realize the importance of maximizing agricultural production without destroying
the ecological basis on which our entire food production system rests.’ Explain with
examples.
20 Marks <1995>
4. Examine the impact of advanced agricultural technology on environment. Support your
answer with examples. 20 Marks <1998>
5. “Food productivity with purity of ecosystem is the need of the hour.” Elaborate. 15 Marks
<2014>
6. Write short notes on Man, and Amazon rainforest. 10 Marks <1996>
7. Discuss how different types of mining lead to different types of environmental problems.
15 Marks <2012>
8. Write a critical note on the tendency of “use and throw” in the context of economic status
and environment. 15 Marks <2016>
9. Write short note on Ecological imbalance. 10 Marks <1983>
10. Discuss man's role in creating ecological imbalances taking examples from a geographical
region. 20 Marks <1984>
11. Examine the causes of ecological imbalances and briefly explain the measures taken to
rectify them. 20 Marks <1989>
12. Discuss the global ecological imbalances and their management. 20 Marks <2006>
13. Sequential changes in land use and land cover have brought global and regional ecological
changes and imbalances. Elucidate. 20 Marks <2022>

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14. What are the factors affecting regional ecological changes? How do these effect human
health? 15 Marks <2023>
15. Write about Programmes initiated by the International Council of Science on Earth System
studies. 20 Marks <2012>
16. Write short notes on Major components of IGBP. 10 Marks <2012>

Ecosystem their management and conservation; Environmental degradation,

management and conservation;
1. Write short notes on Buffer zone. 10 Marks <1997>
2. Write short notes on Marine Ecosystem. 10 Marks <2011>
3. What are the characteristics that make CHC a serious threat to the ecosystem? Give
examples. 15 Marks <2013>
4. How do mountaineers constitute a threat to Mount Everest? 10 Marks <2019>
5. Discuss the causes and consequences of environmental degradation and highlight the related
conservation measures. 20 Marks <2000>
6. Enumerate the major causes of increasing degradation of environment in hills and hillslopes,
and state its down-valley impact. 15 Marks <2014>
7. Mountain regions are more fragile to ecological changes. Elucidate. 10 Marks <2024>
8. Explain the ecosystem approach to environmental management and highlight its advantages
and disadvantages. 15 Marks <2018>
9. “The web of life is seamless and the consequences of disruption to one part of the ecosystem
ripple through the whole”. Elaborate. 15 Marks <2019>
10. Discuss the Perception, Attitude, Value and Emotion (PAVE) Theory of environmental
management. 15 Marks <2017>
11. Perception, Attitude, Value and Emotion (PAVE) are important components for biodiversity
and sustainable environmental conservation. Elaborate. 15 Marks <2024>
12. Describe how ecosystem services of Himalaya are essential for Highland-Lowland
sustainability in Asia. 10 Marks <2021>
13. Explain the concept of micro carbon sink and its relevance. 10 Marks <2017>
14. How is carbon neutrality essential for future environmental conservation? Describe various
efforts taken by nations in this regard. 20 Marks <2024>

Biodiversity and sustainable development;

1. Write short notes on Biodiversity. 10 Marks <1994>
2. Write short notes on Sustainable development. 10 Marks <1994>
3. Write short notes on Sustainable development. 10 Marks <2006>
4. Explain the concept of sustainable development and propose a model for agricultural
development. 20 Marks <2007>
5. Discuss the relevance of ‘watershed’ as an ecosystem for the purpose of sustainable
development. 20 Marks <1999>
6. Discuss the methods of conserving biodiversity for sustainable development. 15 Marks
<2015>
7. Why is it necessary to conserve genetic diversity of species? Do protected areas serve any
useful purpose in this context? 20 Marks <2019>

Environmental hazards and remedial measures;

1. Write short notes on Natural hazards. 10 Marks <1995>

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2. Write short notes on Environmental pollution. 10 Marks <2003>

3. Bring out major problems of environmental pollution at global scale and suggest measures
to check it. 20 Marks <2005>
4. Explain the levels of Noise pollution and the legislative measures to control it. 15 Marks
<2013>
5. Explain the hydro- meteorological hazards in the Himalayas. 10 Marks <2016>
6. Explain the natural and anthropogenic causes and mitigation measures of frequent flooding
in Mumbai. 10 Marks <2018>
7. “Geomorphological changes are largely responsible for environmental hazards in the
Himalayan region.” Comment with relevant examples. 15 Marks <2018>
8. The impact of floods on life and property can be most effectively reduced by hazard mapping.
Comment. 15 Marks <2019>
9. Discuss the human response to and management of hazards and disasters in India.
15 Marks <2020>
10. Indicating the causes of lightning, describe the threats associated with it. 15 Marks <2021>
11. What are the high-altitude environmental hazards? Explain with suitable examples.
10 Marks <2022>

Environmental policy; Environmental education and legislation.

1. “Controlling population growth is the sustainable solution to environmental problems.”
Express your views with suitable arguments. 15 Marks <2018>
2. Comment on the impact of environmental education on quality of life. 10 Marks <2015>
3. Discuss the objectives and principles of environmental education. Describe the basic
concerns of formal and non-formal environmental education in India. 15 Marks <2018>
4. How is ‘Deep Ecology’ as a concept different from ‘Shallow Ecology’? Explain. 10 Marks
<2023>

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Section-B

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Perspectives in Human Geography

Syllabus:

Areal differentiation; regional synthesis; Dichotomy and dualism; Environmentalism; Quantitative

revolution and locational analysis; radical, behavioural, human and welfare approaches; Languages,
religions and secularisation; Cultural regions of the world; Human development index.

Year 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
110
80
40 45 40 (10+20 45 45
(10+20 30 30 25 25
Marks (10+15
+15+15
(10+20 (10+10 +15+15 (10+20
(15+15) (10+20)
(10+20
(10+15) (10+15)
+15) +15) +20) +15+20 +15) +15)
+20)
+15)

Reference Books/Materials:

Chapter Awareness & Preparation Strategy: (Nature of Questions and the Approach to be
followed) (gained through PYQ Analysis)

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 READ the ‘QUESTION’ with “AWARENESS” &
“ANALYSE” to UNDERSTAND the “QUESTION DEMAND”

Contributions to the development of geographical thought (not mentioned

directly in the present syllabus);
1. What were the significant geographical ideas of the Arabs of the 10th and 12th centuries?
How did they differ from those of their Christian contemporaries? 20 Marks <1980>
2. Discuss the contributions of either Paul Vidal De La Blache or W.M. Davis in advancement
of our geographical knowledge. 15 Marks <1982>
3. Write an essay on the contribution of European geographers to the development of geographic
thought. 20 Marks <1989>
4. Explain the major contribution by Arab geographers of the early medieval period in the
development of geographic thought. 20 Marks <1991>
5. Give a comparative assessment of the works of Humboldt and Ritter leading to the foundation
of modern geographical thought. 20 Marks <1992>
6. Discuss the contributions of Al Beruni towards the development of geographical knowledge.
10 Marks <1995>

Dichotomy and dualism; Environmentalism;

1. Discuss the scope of human geography. 20 Marks <1980>
2. Critically examine the concept of dualism with special reference to physical versus human
geography. 20 Marks <1997>
3. Write short notes: Dualism in geography. 10 Marks <2007>
4. Critically examine the development of determinism and possibilism in geography. 20 Marks
<1984>
5. Write short notes on Environmental Determinism. 10 Marks <1988>
6. Examine critically the concepts of ‘determinism’ and ‘possibilism’. 10 Marks <1994>
7. Write short explanatory notes on Neo-determinism. 10 Marks <2010>
8. “Ellen Churchill Semple is an ardent supporter of Determinism”. Explain. 10 Marks <2013>
9. Discuss the relevance of ‘Stop and Go Determinism’ in the present-day context. 15 Marks
<2016>
10. Write short notes: Neo-environmentalism. 10 Marks <2002>
11. “There is a rejuvenation of environmentalism as a paradigm in geographical studies.”
Comment. 20 Marks <2015>
12. “Human ecology is the study of mutual relationship of people and their environment both
natural and social.” Discuss in detail using ecological concepts. 15 Marks <2020>

Areal differentiation; regional synthesis;

1. Write short notes on Areal differentiation. 10 Marks <2005>
2. Critically examine the changing perspectives on the concept of areal differentiation. 15 Marks
<2010>
3. “Areal differentiation forms the core theme in geography.” Explain. 10 Marks <2016>
4. Explain the sequential development of areal differentiation as a fundamental concept in
Human Geography. 10 Marks <2023>
5. “Areal differentiation has provided the theoretical justification for studying ‘regions’ and
‘regional geography’.” Comment. 20 Marks <2018>
6. “Regional synthesis is the crux of geographical studies.” Elaborate. 20 Marks <2015>

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 READ the ‘QUESTION’ with “AWARENESS” &
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Quantitative revolution and locational analysis;

1. Is the Quantitative method in Geography a means to an end or the Geographic method itself?
Discuss clearly bringing out the purpose of Geography. 10 Marks <1982>
2. Write a critical essay on the quantitative revolution in geography. 20 Marks <1983>
3. What is meant by quantitative revolution in geography? Discuss its impact on the
development of subject. 20 Marks <1986>
4. What is understood by quantification in geography? Discuss the significance of quantification
in modern geographical studies with examples. 20 Marks <1998>
5. ‘Quantitative Revolution and model building provided an empirical basis for geographical
research’- Elaborate. 15 Marks <2009>
6. Trace the origin and progress of Quantitative Revolution in Geography and bring out its
merits and demerits. 20 Marks <2016>
7. Discuss critically the manner in which quantitative revolution provided the methodological
foundation for models and modelling in geography. 15 Marks <2018>
8. Critically examine the significance of the Quantitative Revolution and its influence in the
development of Geography. 15 Marks <2022>

Radical, behavioural, human and welfare approaches;

1. Write short notes on Radical approach in human geography. 10 Marks <2001>
2. Discuss the contribution of geographers in the development of radical geography. 15 Marks
<2014>
3. Why radicalism seen as a major paradigm shift in geography? Explain its causes, approaches
and criticism. 20 Marks <2021>
4. Elaborate upon the influence of Marxist philosophy on geographical research, outline the key
themes addressed by Marxist geographers since the 1970’s. 15 Marks <2018>
5. Write short notes on quantitative and behavioural revolutions in geography. 10 Marks
<1990>
6. “The emergence of Behavioural Geography was due to disillusionment with axioms on which
models were based and the axioms were far removed from reality.” Comment. 20 Marks
<1996>
7. Write short notes on Behavioural Geography. 10 Marks <2008>
8. Elaborate the concept of mental map. 10 Marks <2014>
9. Discuss the approaches to the study of behavioural geography. 15 Marks <2015>
10. Critically examine the significance of Behavioural Approach in the development of human
geography. 10 Marks <2024>
11. Present a critical analysis of human and welfare approaches in human geography. 20 Marks
<2003>
12. Provide a brief outline of ideas related to “sense of place” as propounded by Yi- Fu Tuan and
Relph in the humanistic geography that emerged in the 1970’s. 15 Marks <2018>
13. Distinguish between radical and welfare approaches in geographic studies. 20 Marks
<2004>
14. Write short explanatory notes on Welfare Approach in Human Geography. 10 Marks
<2011>
15. “The welfare face of geography makes it an inter-disciplinary subject.” Elaborate. 10 Marks
<2015>
16. Comment upon the contributions of D.M. Smith in outlining ‘welfare’ as a key focus in the
geographies of social well-being. 15 Marks <2018>

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17. “Welfare geography emphasizes spatial inequality and territorial justice”. Comment with
reference to the main ideas and scope of the subfield. 20 Marks <2018>
18. Describe the sequence of major paradigm shifts in geographic thought during the twentieth
century. 20 Marks <1999>
19. Discuss the impact of positivism in paradigm shift in Geography. 15 Marks <2011>
20. Discuss the contemporary paradigms of Geography. 20 Marks <2017>
21. “Geography is a contested and multiparadigmic discipline with a strong eurocentricity that
has only recently challenged.” Comment. 10 Marks <2018>

Languages, religions and secularisation; Cultural regions of the world;

1. Give a critical account of the cultural evolution of man. Illustrate your answer with suitable
examples. 20 Marks <1988>
2. Write short notes on Major cultural realms of the world. 10 Marks <1989>
3. Write short notes on Cultural regions of the World. 10 Marks <2006>
4. Provide a broad classification of world cultural regions. 20 Marks <2009>
5. Write short explanatory notes on Occidental cultural realm. 10 Marks <2010>
6. “Indo-Gangetic hearth is considered to be one of the world’s richest cultural realms.”
Examine. 15 Marks <2014>
7. “Cultural regions are most suited units to study the diversity of an area.” Comment. 15 Marks
<2015>
8. “The traditional cultural identities are at loss with the growth of global connectivity.” Explain.
10 Marks <2017>
9. Globalisation can often subsume folk culture. What are its positive and negative effects?
15 Marks <2019>
10. “Culture is a dynamic concept”. Elucidate with examples. 20 Marks <2022>
11. “A language originates at a particular place and diffuses to other location through the
migration of its speakers.” Examine this statement in the context of language hot spots and
endangered language hot spots. 10 Marks <2019>
12. Analyse the effects of Globalisation on languages. 10 Marks <2022>

Human development index.

1. Critically examine the method of deriving Human Development Index. 20 Marks <2010>
2. Explain the parameters for assessment and the spatial pattern of Human Development Index
in the World. 15 Marks <2013>
3. HDI has brought about a paradigm shift in the way people think about the development
process. Critically examine the inherent limitations of HDI. 20 Marks <2019>
4. Write an essay on gender equity and equality in India in the context of balanced human
development. 15 Marks <2020>
5. What is the relation between gender equity and human development? Provide a list of
commonly used gender related indices. 15 Marks <2023>

Miscellaneous
1. Write short notes on Diffusion of innovation. 10 Marks <1986>
2. Explain the concept of Time – Geography. 10 Marks <2017>
3. The interrelationships between social and spatial structure are complex. Explain in the
context of socio-spatial dialectic. 10 Marks <2021>

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4. Explain how the physical view of geographical space has impacted the forms of spatial
analysis. 15 Marks <2024>

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Economic Geography

Syllabus:

World economic development: measurement and problems; World resources and their distribution;
Energy crisis; the limits to growth; World agriculture: typology of agricultural regions; agricultural
inputs and productivity; Food and nutrition problems; Food security; famine: causes, effects and
remedies; World industries: locational patterns and problems; patterns of world trade.

Year 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
50
40 45 35 45 40 45
25 25 25 25 (10+10
Marks (10+15
(10+15) (10+15) (10+15)
(10+20
(10+15) +15+15
(10+10 (10+15 (10+15 (10+20
+15) +15) +15) +20) +15) +15)
)

Reference Books/Materials:

Chapter Awareness & Preparation Strategy: (Nature of Questions and the Approach to be
followed) (gained through PYQ Analysis)

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 READ the ‘QUESTION’ with “AWARENESS” &
“ANALYSE” to UNDERSTAND the “QUESTION DEMAND”

World economic development: measurement and problems;

1. "The economic development of a country depends as much on the stage of development of
the people as on the able resources. Discuss this statement with examples. 20 Marks
<1980>
2. Write short notes on Definition and Scope of Economic Geography. 10 Marks <1981>
3. How far do the patterns of economic development and those of human development
correspond with each other in the world? Illustrate your answer with examples. 20 Marks
<1999>
4. To what extent do the regional patterns of economic development and human development
in the world correspond with each other? Highlight situations of departure, in particular.
20 Marks <2002>

World resources and their distribution;

1. Discuss the petroleum resources of the Middle East and its impact on international politics.
20 Marks <1984>
2. Oil has placed in the hands of Arab nations a tremendous geopolitical weapon with which to
wield power. Comment. 20 Marks <1994>
3. Write shot notes on Land capability. 10 Marks <1990>
4. Write short notes on Land capability versus Land use efficiency. 10 Marks <1992>
5. Water is a scarce resource in plenty. Comment and discuss its importance in the balanced
habitat development. Support your answers with examples from Asia. 20 Marks <1997>
6. Explain the term resource management. Discuss its relevance in the context of global
resource scarcity and the future of mankind. 20 Marks <1998>
7. Write short notes on role of Venezuela in the production and the export of oil. 10 Marks
<2013>
8. Discuss the environmental and economic problems associated with coal production.
15 Marks <2014>
9. “World is passing through a global resource dilemma.” Comment. 15 Marks <2014>
10. “Land degradation is a threat to productivity and sustainable resource management.”
Explain with suitable examples from India. 15 Marks <2020>
11. How can Sustainable Land Management (SLM) harmonise the complimentary goals of
environmental, economic and social opportunities? Discuss. 15 Marks <2023>
12. “While scarcity of water resources are felt locally, but its causes are increasingly global.”
Comment. 10 Marks <2024>

Energy crisis;
1. Write short notes on World energy crisis. 10 Marks <1983>
2. Discuss the various sources of energy and their uses. Suggest the measures to overcome the
present-day energy crisis. 20 Marks <1988>
3. Write short notes on World energy crisis. 10 Marks <1991>
4. Write short notes on the countries most affected in case of shutdown of Nuclear power.
10 Marks <2013>
5. “Energy mix is a step towards sustainability.” Discuss. 10 Marks <2015>
6. “The intensity of energy crisis varies regionally.” Explain. 15 Marks <2017>
7. Identify the causes and effects of energy crisis, and suggest suitable measures to solve the
problem. 10 Marks <2020>

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8. How is energy transition seen as an instrument for achieving zero carbon by 2050? 10 Marks
<2021>

The limits to growth;

1. Write short notes on Concept of limits to growth. 10 Marks <1991> <2000> <2003>
2. Write short notes on ‘Limits to Growth’ model. 10 Marks <2009>
3. Discuss in brief the main thesis in “Limits to Growth” (1972) and also provide a critique of
the same. 15 Marks <2018>
4. Explain population, resource use and development nexus in the Limits to Growth Model. Why
has this model been criticized intensely? 15 Marks <2023>

World agriculture: agricultural inputs and productivity; Typology of

agricultural regions;
1. Write short notes on Diffusion of innovation in agricultural technology. 10 Marks <1990>
2. Write short notes on Measures of agricultural efficiency. 10 Marks <1993>
3. Mention the types of farming commonly being practised in the tropics. Discuss their
significance and the present position in the international market. 20 Marks <1982>
4. Mention different types of world agriculture and describe the areas and salient features of
each type. 20 Marks <1985>
5. Give an account of the agricultural typology of the world as presented by Whittlesey and
critically examine the parameters used in its delineation. 20 Marks <1993>
6. Examine the bases of classification of agricultural regions as proposed by Whittlesey and
explain the causes for the essential difference between intensive subsistence tillage with rice
dominant and without rice in the crop association. 20 Marks <1996>
7. Write down main agricultural types and their associated features with special reference to
Whittlesey. 20 Marks <2006>
8. Mention the agricultural regions as classified by Whittlesey and discuss their relevance.
20 Marks <2011>
9. Elaborate the idea of ‘Compage’. 10 Marks <2016>
10. “Whittlesey’s agricultural regions are relevant even today.” Discuss. 10 Marks <2017>
11. Explain the basis of D. Whittlesey’s classification of agricultural regions of the world.
20 Marks <2024>
12. Write short notes on Dry land farming. 10 Marks <1995>
13. Write short notes on Types of farming. 10 Marks <1998>
14. Write about impact of failure of Monsoon on Gujarat Agro-climatic zone. 15 Marks <2012>
15. Protected cultivation assists in healthier and a large produce. Justify with examples.
10 Marks <2021>

Food and nutrition problems; Food security; famine: causes, effects and
remedies;
1. Assess the nature of the "food problem" of India, both qualitatively and quantitatively at the
present time. What practical suggestions can you offer towards its solutions? 20 Marks
<1980>
2. Discuss the food and nutrition problems of the world. 20 Marks <1983>
3. Discuss critically food and nutrition problems associated with the developing world.
10 Marks <2023>

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4. Give an account of spatial pattern of world food production and analyse the related problems
of malnutrition and malnutrition diseases. 20 Marks <1990>
5. Provide a geographical account of global production and distribution of food. 20 Marks
<2009>
6. Define stunting and wasting. Why are these more prevalent among children in developing
countries? 10 Marks <2019>
7. Write short notes on growth of population and food resources of the world. 10 Marks <1996>
8. Write short explanatory notes on Population and Food Security. 10 Marks <2011>
9. Give an account of food security issues in developing countries. 10 Marks <2014>
10. Analyse India’s food security in the context of population growth. 10 Marks <2020>
11. Describe the role of accessibility and affordability in food security of developing world.
15 Marks <2021>
12. “Climate change is a serious problem to global food security and poverty eradication.”
Critically examine. 20 Marks <2022>
13. “Famine, to considerable extent, is a man-made hazard.” Elaborate. 15 Marks <2010>
14. “Man-induced famines are becoming more common than nature induced ones.” Comment.
15 Marks <2015>
15. “Famine is a social phenomenon rooted in institutional and political economic
arrangements, which determine access to food by different classes and strata.” Comment.
20 Marks <2018>

World industries: locational patterns and problems;

1. Analyse the factors of localization of the Iron and Steel industry with special reference to
India. Suggest an ideal location for this industry in India and make a comparative
assessment of the advantages and disadvantages of Visakhapatnam and Salem steel plants.
20 Marks <1980>
2. Analyse the factors of localization of the cotton-textile industries, and assess how far their
location has been influenced by the availability of indigenous raw materials and proximity
to the markets. 20 Marks <1981>
3. Discuss the general distributional pattern of industrial development in the world and its
associated problems. 20 Marks <1984>
4. Examine the world patterns of industrial development and explain the problems of industrial
development at national levels. 20 Marks <1991>
5. “A large-scale global shift in manufacturing is the outcome of deindustrialization in the
developed world matched by industrialization in the developing world.” Analyse this
statement. 15 Marks <2019>
6. Write about Locational significance of Rotterdam in European economy. 15 Marks <2012>
7. Write short notes on Problems faced by industries which developed due to inertia. 10 Marks
<2012>
8. Discuss the degree of importance of transportation costs as a factor of industrial location
with respect to “footloose industries”. 10 Marks <2018>
9. Analyse the dynamics of industrial location in the metropolitan cities of India. 15 Marks
<2020>
10. Analyse the spatial changes and emerging patterns of semiconductor manufacturing in the
world. 15 Marks <2024>

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Patterns of world trade.

1. Give an account of the pattern of international trade and examine the linkages between
resource endowed regions and resource utilizing regions. 20 Marks <1987>
2. “Linkages between resources endowed regions and resource utilizing regions determine the
pattern of international trade.” Elaborate with suitable examples. 15 Marks <2016>
3. Discuss the role of World Trade Organization in determining the pattern of world trade.
15 Marks <2010>
4. Write short notes on Globalization of trade and industry. 10 Marks <1996>
5. Analyse the causes for changes in the pattern of World trade. 20 Marks <2013>
6. Discuss the changing pattern of production and export of Coffee in the world. 10 Marks
<2013>
7. “Shifting global trade patterns create new opportunities”. Examine this statement. 10 Marks
<2022>
8. “Automation is rapidly changing the economies of labour and will affect trade patterns in
significant ways”. Clarify. 15 Marks <2022>

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Population and Settlement Geography

Syllabus:

Growth and distribution of world population; demographic attributes; Causes and consequences of
migration; concepts of over, under-and optimum population; Population theories, world population
problems and policies, Social wellbeing and quality of life; Population as social capital.

Types and patterns of rural settlements; Environmental issues in rural settlements; Hierarchy of
urban settlements; urban morphology: Concepts of primate city and rank-size rule; Functional
classification of towns; Sphere of urban influence; Rural - urban fringe; Satellite towns; Problems
and remedies of urbanization; Sustainable development of cities.

Year 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
55 60 60 60 60
40 50
30 25 (10+10 (15+15 25 (10+15 30 (10+15 (10+20
Marks (10+20) (10+15) +15+ +15+ (10+15) +20+
(10+10
(15+15) +20+
(10+20
+15+
+20) +20)
20) 15) 15) 15) 15)

Reference Books/Materials:

Chapter Awareness & Preparation Strategy: (Nature of Questions and the Approach to be
followed) (gained through PYQ Analysis)

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 READ the ‘QUESTION’ with “AWARENESS” &
“ANALYSE” to UNDERSTAND the “QUESTION DEMAND”

Growth and distribution of world population; demographic attributes; world

population problems and policies;
1. What are the determinants of population growth? Discuss comparatively the trends in
population growth in the developed and the developing countries of the world, mentioning
the socio-economic implications of these trends in each case. 20 Marks <1980>
2. Give an account of existing distributional pattern of population in the world and give your
assessment regarding the importance of geographical factors for such a pattern.
20 Marks <1987>
3. Trace and account for the various trends of population growth in the world during the present
century. 2
4. 0 Marks <1991>
5. Write short notes on Similarities in the population distribution of southern continents and
reasons for the same. 10 Marks <2012>
6. Write short notes on Status of infant mortality rate in the world. 10 Marks <2012>
7. Discuss the impact of changing fertility ratio on world population distribution. 15 Marks
<2012>
8. “There are considerable demographic similarities between West European nations and
Japan.” Explain. 15 marks <2017>
9. Explain the relationship between net reproductive rate (NRR) and true replacement level of
population. 10 Marks <2019>
10. What is Geriatrics? What are the problems associated with Geriatric population? 20 Marks
<2013>
11. Describe the regional pattern of Life Expectancy in the world and bring out the challenges
faced by developing countries due to increasing life expectancy. 20 Marks <2016>
12. Assess the challenges for countries with largest shares of aged populations. 15 Marks
<2019>
13. Ageing population has adverse social and economic consequences. Explain with examples.
15 Marks <2021>
14. “Huge populations of developing countries are not a curse. These may be and also are an
asset, if situations are properly managed.” Elaborate on this assertion. 20 Marks <2010>
15. Citing examples from Asia and Europe, comment upon the contexts within which
pronatalist population policies advanced. What could be the implications of these policies
on women’s workforce participation? 15 Marks <2018>
16. “In developed countries, migration rather than fertility will be the main driver of population
dynamics over the next few decades.” Examine the statement. 15 Marks <2024>

Concepts of over, under-and optimum population; Population theories (also

covered in Models, Theories and Laws in Human Geography);
1. Critically examine the concept of optimum population. 10 Marks <1982>
2. Write short notes on Concept of optimum population. 10 Marks <2001>
3. Write short explanatory notes on Optimum population. 10 Marks <2010>
4. Examine the theories about population control and explain the relative merits of these
theories in limiting population growth. 20 Marks <1995>
5. Discuss the social and economic theories of population growth. 20 Marks <2008>

Causes and consequences of migration;

1. Examine the role of pull and push factors in the migration of population. 20 Marks <1981>

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2. Discuss the causes and consequences of major international migrations of the present time.
20 Marks <1985>
3. Examine the causes of international migration of the last 50 years or so and the socio
economic and political problems generated by them. 20 Marks <1990>
4. Discuss the major international streams of migration in the world in recent times and account
for the relationship that exists between population pressure areas and migration prospects.
20 Marks <1993>
5. Discuss the causes and consequences of population migration in the world. 20 Marks
<2000>
6. Write short notes on Impact of migration on urban demography. 10 Marks <2012>
7. Examine the causes and consequences of forced migration of population in the present
context. 15 Marks <2017>
8. What do you mean by ‘climate migrants’? Suggest appropriate policies and programmes for
their resettlement. 15 Marks <2019>
9. Distinguish between mobility and migration. What are the causes and consequences of rural
to urban migration in India? 10 Marks <2020>
10. How migration is affected by push and pull factors? Explain how these factors play a role
in understanding new settlement patterns. 20 Marks <2022>
11. Human migration is a reflection of the balance between push and full factors. Elaborate
with reference to the most recent diaspora. 10 Marks <2023>
12. What is Transnationalism? Why has the scale and scope of transnational linkages of
diaspora multiplied in recent times? 15 Marks <2024>
13. Write short notes on Gravity model. 10 Marks <1999>
14. Critically examine the theories on population migration. 15 Marks <2015>
15. Discuss the application of Gravity model in Geographical studies. 10 Marks <2016>

Social wellbeing and quality of life; Population as social capital.

1. Define the quality of life and explain its parameters with adequate examples. 15 Marks
<2017>
2. Explain the concept of social capital in relation to India. 15 Marks <2017>

Types and patterns of rural settlements;

1. Write short notes on rural settlements patterns. 10 Marks <1985>
2. Citing suitable examples from India, explain the role of site and other physical factors in
determining the types and patterns of rural settlements. 20 marks <1992>
3. Discuss the role of site in determining the types and patterns of rural settlements. 15 Marks
<2016>
4. “Rural settlements are expressions of the basic relationships between human beings and
their physical and social environment.” Discuss. 20 Marks<2023>

Environmental issues in rural settlements;

--------------

Hierarchy of urban settlements; urban morphology:

1. Discuss with examples the factors of origin and growth of towns and cities. 20 Marks <1980>
2. Examine the morphological factors that influence the origin and growth of towns. 10 Marks
<2022>

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3. What is meant by Urban Functions? How are they different from Rural Functions? 10 Marks
<1982>
4. Briefly discuss the trend of urbanisation in the world since the beginning of the present
century. 20 Marks <1983>
5. Write about Regional shifts in the world urbanization after 1950 and the varied
characteristics of urban process. 20 Marks <2012>
6. “Colonial forces resulted in the primate pattern of urban process in most Southeast Asian
countries.” Discuss. 20 Marks <2012>
7. Examine the various theories concerning the internal structure of cities and discuss how they
are applicable to Indian cities. 20 Marks <1987>
8. Enumerate the different models of the internal structure of cities. Choose one of them and
discuss it in its application to a particular city. 20 Marks <1990>
9. Explain and illustrate the models of internal structure of cities as proposed by Burgess and
Hoyt. Mention also the limitations of these models. 20 Marks <1995>
10. Bring out the sequential improvements in models of city structure by E.W. Burgess, Homer
Hoyt, and Harris and Ullman. 20 Marks <2010>
11. Write short notes on Central Business District. 10 Marks <1981>
12. Discuss the major characteristics of ‘CBD’. 10 Marks <2016>
13. Central Business Districts (CBDs) are in decline as the economic core of metropolitan cities.
Critically examine. 10 Marks <2024>
14. Bring out the contrast between the internal structure of the pre-industrial and industrial
cities. 20 Marks <1999>

Concepts of primate city and rank-size rule; Functional classification of towns;

1. Write short notes on Primate city. 10 Marks <1999>
2. Write short notes on Concept of primate city. 10 Marks <2005>
3. Write short notes on Primate Cities. 10 Marks <2008>
4. Write short notes on Rank-size rule. 10 Marks <2000>
5. In Urban Geography what are the concepts of Primate city and Rank size rule? Discuss in
detail. 20 Marks <2006>
6. Discuss the concept of ‘Rank-Size-Rule’ given by G.K. Zipf. Is this rule relevant in Indian
context? 15 Marks <2022>
7. Write short notes on Classification of cities. 10 Marks <1989>
8. Discuss Nelson’s method of functional classification of towns. 10 Marks <2015>
9. Elaborate the concept of Megapolis and discuss the characteristics and problems related to
such regions selecting one each from North America and Europe. 20 Marks <2009>
10. Explain the concepts of “megapolis” and “exopolis” with regard to the growth of cities
indicating whether the two can and do overlap. 10 Marks <2018>
11. “Urban Geography is nothing but city “in” area and city “as” area.” Elaborate. 20 Marks
<2013>
12. Small number of mega cities are playing a key role in organisation of global economics and
culture. Explain. 15 Marks <2021>
13. Write short notes on Relevance of distance decay principle in Indian cities. 10 Marks
<2012>
14. Evaluate the various models on population density distribution in urban centers. 20 Marks
<2012>

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Sphere of urban influence; Rural - urban fringe; Satellite towns;

1. Write short notes on urban sphere of influence. 10 Marks <1984>
2. Define the urban sphere of influence and discuss different methods of determining the
spheres of influence of cities. 20 Marks <1986>
3. Define umland and discuss with specific examples, the criteria for its delimitation.
20 Marks <1993>
4. Examine the concept of sphere of urban influence and discuss the qualitative and
quantitative methods used in its delimitation. 20 Marks <2003>
5. Explain the qualitative and quantitative methods of delineation of the sphere of urban
influence. 20 Marks <2014>
6. Write short notes on Rural-urban fringe. 10 Marks <1997>
7. Write short notes on Delineation of Urban Fringe. 10 Marks <2007>
8. Explain the problems and prospects of urban expansion in the context of urban fringe in
developed and developing nations. 20 Marks<2023>
9. Write short notes on the Misra’s theoretical stages of Rural- Urban process. 10 Marks
<2013>
10. Write short explanatory notes on Secondary cities in the context of urbanization in
developing world. 10 Marks <2011>

Problems and remedies of urbanization; Sustainable development of cities.

1. Write short notes on Slums and Squatter settlements. 10 Marks <1994>
2. Discuss the factors responsible for counter urbanization. 10 Marks <2014>
3. Discuss the problems associated with the living environment in million plus cities in India.
How can these be managed? 10 Marks <2020>
4. “Though 70% of Indian population is rural, urban planning is crucial to the development of
India.” Discuss. 15 Marks <2012>
5. “Urban Solid Waste Management poses the greatest challenge in Metropolitan planning”.
Elaborate. 20 Marks <2013>
6. What changes in the current planning, management and governance of the human
settlements are needed to face the changing environment including climate change and
disaster vulnerabilities in cities? 20 Marks <2019>
7. Discuss the concept of urban resilience in the context of planning for sustainable
development with reference to towns and cities of India. 20 Marks <2020>
8. “Over crowding leads to chronic problem of shortage of housing in Indian cities”. Explain
citing relevant examples. 15 Marks <2022>
9. The urbanisation process is particularly pronounced in Asia and Africa, where too many
urban residents grapple with extreme poverty, exclusion, vulnerability and marginalization.
Discuss. 20 Marks <2024>

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Regional Planning

Syllabus:

Concept of a region; Types of regions and methods of regionalisation; Growth centres and growth
poles; Regional imbalances; regional development strategies; environmental issues in regional
planning; Planning for sustainable development.

Year 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
65
40 30
30 25 (10+20 25 25 25
Marks (10+20)
(10+15 (15+15)
(10+15)
00 10 10
+15+ (10+15) (10+15) (10+15)
+15)
20)

Reference Books/Materials:

Chapter Awareness & Preparation Strategy: (Nature of Questions and the Approach to be
followed) (gained through PYQ Analysis)

“LEARN the SKILL of ANSWERING the QUESTION DEMAND” rather than merely writing answers
 READ the ‘QUESTION’ with “AWARENESS” &
“ANALYSE” to UNDERSTAND the “QUESTION DEMAND”

Concept of a region; Types of regions and methods of regionalisation;

1. Write short notes on regional concept in Geography. 10 Marks <1985>
2. Bring out the significance of regional concept. 10 Marks <1994>
3. What is a region? Discuss the types of regions and methods of regionalization. 20 Marks
<2000>
4. What is a region? Discuss the methods of regionalization. 20 Marks <2005>
5. What is the concept of a region? Discuss the types of regions. 20 Marks <2006>
6. What is a ‘region’? Describe ‘Thiessen’ polygon method of regional delimitation. 15 Marks
<2016>
7. What are natural regions? How are they different from planning regions? 10 Marks <2019>
8. Suggest criteria, indicators and techniques for delimitation of formal regions. 20 Marks
<2021>

Growth centres and growth poles;

1. Critically examine the role of growth centers and growth poles in regional development
process. 20 Marks <2001>
2. Write short notes on Growth pole. 10 Marks <2004>
3. Write short explanatory notes on Growth poles. 10 Marks <2010>
4. Discuss the different types of polarisation-induced spatial inequalities and imbalances
associated with growth poles. 10 Marks <2023>

Regional imbalances; regional development strategies;

1. Examine the spatial patterns of development disparity prevailing in the world. 20 Marks
<2001>
2. Write short notes on Regional imbalances. 10 Marks <2003>
3. “Geographical traits lead to regional imbalances.” Examine. 15 Marks <2015>
4. Explain in detail the impact of regional disparities on economic development. 15 Marks
<2022>
5. Discuss various strategies for correcting regional imbalances. 20 Marks <2004>
6. Enumerate alternative strategies of planning for backward regions. 20 Marks <2011>
7. Write about Salient features of watershed planning and its advantages and disadvantages.
20 Marks <2012>
8. Explain the relevance of bottom-up and top-down approaches in the development of agrarian
economy. 10 Marks <2014>
9. “Rural sustainability is necessary for urban sustainability”. Discuss the statement in the
backdrop of integrated development approach. 20 Marks <2014>
10. Examine the role of small towns in the regional development process. 15 Marks <2017>
11. “Where economic growth is sustained over long time periods, its incidence works towards a
progressive integration of the space economy.” Elucidate. 10 Marks <2020>
12. Explain the processes of contagion and hierarchical diffusion in addressing regional
imbalances. 10 Marks <2021>
13. Discuss the role of transportation accessibility in regional development. 10 Marks <2022>
14. What is regional survey? How does it lead to planning? Discuss with suitable examples.
20 Marks <1982>
15. “Vital statistics are necessary ingredients for development planning.” Elaborate. 15 Marks
<2015>

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 READ the ‘QUESTION’ with “AWARENESS” &
“ANALYSE” to UNDERSTAND the “QUESTION DEMAND”

16. Describe the concept of Planning region. Explain the environmental and economic factors
in the creation of such regions. 15 Marks <2023>
17. Assess the criterial required for selecting regions for developmental planning. 15 Marks
<2024>
18. There is a need for gender-sensitive regional development. Elaborate. 10 Marks <2024>

Environmental issues in regional planning; Planning for sustainable

development.
1. Highlight the significance of environmental issues in Regional Planning. 15 Marks <2009>
2. “Development planning has a component of environmental cost.” Discuss. 10 Marks <2015>
3. The environmental issues are not adequately addressed in the regional planning. Comment.
15 Marks <2021>
4. Development-induced displacement poses serious challenges. Mention its causes,
consequences and solutions. 20 Marks <2021>
5. In what ways can geographers contribute towards optimal land use planning in a region?
15 Marks <2016>
6. Write an essay on sustainable development from the perspective of geography. 20 Marks
<2002>
7. Write short explanatory notes on Ingredients of Sustainable development. 10 Marks <2011>
8. Give an account on sustainable development and its components. 10 Marks <2017>

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 READ the ‘QUESTION’ with “AWARENESS” &
“ANALYSE” to UNDERSTAND the “QUESTION DEMAND”

Models, Theories and Laws in Human Geography

Syllabus:

Systems analysis in Human geography; Malthusian, Marxian and demographic transition models;
Central Place theories of Christaller and Losch; Perroux and Boudeville; Von Thunen’s model of
agricultural location; Weber’s model of industrial location; Rostov’s model of stages of growth;
Heartland and Rimland theories; Laws of international boundaries and frontiers.

Year 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
60 80 60
45 45 50 40 45
30 20 (10+15 (10+20 25 (10+20
Marks (10+20
(20+10)
(10+15 (10+20
(10+10) +20+ +15+15
(10+15
(10+15) +15+
(10+15
+15) +20) +20) +15) +20)
15) +20) 15)

Reference Books/Materials:

Chapter Awareness & Preparation Strategy: (Nature of Questions and the Approach to be
followed) (gained through PYQ Analysis)

“LEARN the SKILL of ANSWERING the QUESTION DEMAND” rather than merely writing answers
 READ the ‘QUESTION’ with “AWARENESS” &
“ANALYSE” to UNDERSTAND the “QUESTION DEMAND”

Systems analysis in Human geography;

1. Write short notes on systems approach in geography. 10 Marks <1987>
2. Write short notes on System approach in Geography. 10 Marks <1993>
3. Discuss the concept and application of systems analysis in human geography. 20 Marks
<2001>
4. Discuss Systems Approach and its applicability in Geography. 20 Marks <2011>
5. Giving suitable examples, describe the importance of system analysis in geographical studies.
15 Marks <2014>
6. Write an explanatory note on geographical systems. 10 Marks <2017>
7. Write short notes on Models in Geography. 10 Marks <1994>
8. Critically analyse the application of models in Geography. 10 Marks <2014>

Malthusian, Marxian and demographic transition models;

1. Write short notes on Demographic Transition. 10 Marks <1981>
2. Write short notes on Demographic transition. 10 Marks <1986>
3. Write a note on the parameters used to describe the demographic transitions in the
developing countries like India. 20 Marks <2007>
4. Provide an account of world population transition in the context of fertility decline and socio-
economic development. 15 Marks <2020>
5. “The stages of Demographic Transition are a reflection of uneven economic development
across the globe.” Explain with suitable examples. 15 Marks <2023>
6. “Marx’s view on population is more humanistic.” Comment. 10 Marks <2015>
7. Compare and contrast the Malthusian and Neo-Malthusian perspectives in the context of
population growth, resource use and environmental impact. 20 Marks <2020>
8. Has Malthusian Theory been discredited in contemporary times? Justify your answer.
10 Marks <2023>

Central Place theories of Christaller and Losch;

1. Analyse Christaller’s Central Place theory and the modifications introduced in it and examine
its relevance in the present-day context. 20 Marks <1988>
2. Write short notes on Central place theory. 10 Marks <1992>
3. Explain the basis and applicability of Christaller’s Central Place Theory. Bring out the recent
modifications. 20 Marks <2000>
4. Give an account of the functional bases of central place hierarchy. 20 Marks <2007>
5. What are the basic postulates in the Central Place Model of Christaller? 20 Marks <2013>
6. Discuss the applicability of Christaller’s Central Place Theory. 20 Marks <2017>
7. Examine the relevance of Central Place Theory of Christaller in the present context. 10 Marks
<2021>
8. What is complementary region? With reference to hierarchy of settlements, describe the
different types of complementary regions as proposed by Christaller. 20 Marks <2024>
9. Give a critical account of Losch’s theory of central places. 20 Marks <2016>
10. Explain with suitable diagrams A. Losch’s model of the Theory of Location related to Central
Places. Why has this been criticized? 20 Marks <2023>
11. Bring out the main points of difference between the Central Place theories of Christaller and
Losch. 20 Marks <2002>
12. Critically examine the salient features of Central Place Theory propounded by Christaller
and Losch. 20 Marks <2011>

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 READ the ‘QUESTION’ with “AWARENESS” &
“ANALYSE” to UNDERSTAND the “QUESTION DEMAND”

Perroux and Boudeville (Also Covered under Regional Planning Chapter);

1. Write a note on “forward and backward linkages” in Perroux’s thesis of economic growth
and regional development. 10 Marks <2018>
2. “Growth is not uniform in different places”. Critically examine this statement in the context
of growth pole theory. 15 Marks <2019>

Von Thunen’s model of agricultural location;

1. Write short notes on Theories of agricultural location. 10 Marks <1987>
2. Discuss von Thunen’s model of agricultural land use and examine if the model is applicable
to India. 20 Marks <1994>
3. Write short notes on Isolated states. 10 Marks <2002>
4. Discuss the views of von Thunen on agricultural location. 20 Marks <2008>
5. Write short explanatory notes on von Thunen’s concept of economic rent. 10 Marks <2010>
6. Discuss the relevance of Von Thunen’s model on agricultural location in the contemporary
context. 20 Marks <2015>
7. Write a note on the relevance of von Thunen’s agricultural location theory in the present
context. 10 Marks <2020>
8. Explain the relevance and applicability of Von Thunen theory of Agriculture-location in
today’s world. 15 Marks <2022>

Weber’s model of industrial location;

1. Review in detail the various theories of location of industries. 20 Marks <1989>
2. Discuss the theories of industrial location propounded by any two of the following: Weber;
Hoover; Smith. 20 Marks <1992>
3. Critically examine Alfred Weber’s Theory of the Location of Industries. 20 Marks <1997>
4. Write short notes on Location Triangle. 10 Marks <1998>
5. Discuss Weber’s theory of industrial location and assess its relevance in the present-day
context. 20 Marks <2005>
6. Write short notes on Weight Triangle. 10 Marks <2009>
7. Write short explanatory notes on Isodapane in the Theory of Industrial Location.
10 Marks <2011>
8. Explain ‘Isodapane’. 10 Marks <2016>
9. Distinguish between ‘isodapanes’ and ‘isotims’. Critically examine the least cost theory of
industrial location given by Alfred Weber. 20 Marks <2019>
10. Present a critical account of Alfred Weber Theory of industrial location. 15 Marks <2021>

Rostov’s model of stages of growth;

1. Critically examine the stages of Economic Growth Model propounded by Rostov. Illustrate
your answer with suitable examples. 20 Marks <2003>
2. Explain the necessary conditions of takeoff and subsequent stages of development of a nation
as propounded by Rostov. 20 Marks <2014>
3. Outline briefly the “age of mass consumption” as described by Rostov in his ‘multi stage
theory of growth’. 10 Marks <2018>
4. Explain the theoretical framework and stages of economic growth proposed by Rostow’s
model. 10 Marks <2024>

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 READ the ‘QUESTION’ with “AWARENESS” &
“ANALYSE” to UNDERSTAND the “QUESTION DEMAND”

Heartland and Rimland theories;

1. Is it true to say that Mackinder's "Citadel of land power" stands mightier than ever, even at
the present day? 20 Marks <1980>
2. Discuss the concepts of heartland and rimland and examine their present-day validity.
20 Marks <1985>
3. Write short notes on Geopolitics. 10 Marks <1988>
4. Discuss in detail the Heartland concept of Mackinder and the criticism it has attracted in
recent years. 20 Marks <1989>
5. Examine Heartland Theory and assess its merits and demerits. 20 Marks <2005>
6. Write short notes on the Relevance of Heartland theory in Contemporary world. 10 Marks
<2013>
7. “The Heartland Theory is gaining importance once again.” Comment. 20 Marks <2017>
8. Explain the Heartland theory with reference to contemporary geopolitical scenario of the
world. 15 Marks <2024>
9. Discuss how and why Mackinder modified his concept of Pivot Area after the World Wars.
20 Marks <2020>
10. Without Mediterranean Europe could not be held, without Middle East the Mediterranean
could not be held. Discuss. 20 Marks <1996>
11. Write short notes on Rimland Theory. 10 Marks <2002>
12. To what extent are the Heartland and Rimland theories helpful in understanding the world
political situation today? Express your opinion clearly. 20 Marks <2004>
13. Examine the relevance of the ‘rimland theory’ in the contemporary world. 15 Marks <2019>

Laws of international boundaries and frontiers

1. With suitable examples selected from different part of the World, discuss, in detail, the
problems in using either language or religion as a criterion for boundary determinations.
20 Marks <1981>
2. Discuss the genetic classification of international boundaries. How does it differ from the
morphological classification? 20 Marks <1986>
3. Describe the laws of international boundaries and frontiers. 20 Marks <2008>
4. Distinguish between boundaries and frontiers. Identify different types of boundaries.
20 Marks <2011>
5. Define and differentiate between boundaries and frontiers. Describe the geometrical
boundaries with suitable examples. 15 Marks <2016>
6. “Boundaries and frontiers have different meanings in geographical literature.” Substantiate
your answer in the present context. 15 Marks <2023>
7. Discuss the genetic classification of boundaries suggested by Hartshorne. 10 Marks <2019>
8. In the modern world, most of the frontiers have been replaced by boundaries. Explain the
reasons. 15 Marks <2020>
9. Boundaries are important in geopolitics. Explain. What issues develop from the inclusionary
and exclusionary aspects of borders? 15 Marks <2021>
10. Explain the geometrical boundaries with examples. 10 Marks <2022>

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 ENSO ACADEMY
AN “IMPECCABLE CHOICE” FOR DOING “PREPARATION WITH AWARENESS”

NOTES

“LEARN the SKILL of ANSWERING the QUESTION DEMAND” rather than merely writing answers