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Model Answers for UPSC Mains 2023

By vajiram & ravi.

Analysing UPSC Mains model answers is an essential and highly beneficial aspect of the preparation process. They are carefully written examples of the best possible answers to Mains exam questions, and they demonstrate the level of knowledge, analytical thinking, and writing skills that candidates are expected to have. Here are some key reasons why reading the model answers for UPSC Mains 2023 is important:

  • Understanding Expectations: Model answers provide a clear understanding of the level of depth, breadth, and quality of response expected by the UPSC examiners. Aspirants can gauge the standard to which their answers should aspire.
  • Content Enrichment : By reviewing model answers, candidates can identify gaps in their content. They can learn new information, facts, and insights that they might have missed during their preparation.
  • Answer Structure: Model answers demonstrate how to structure responses effectively. Candidates can learn how to introduce a topic, build arguments logically, and conclude succinctly.
  • Art of Conciseness: The UPSC values concise and focused responses. Analysing solved answers help candidates understand how to convey their points effectively within the word limit.
  • Analytical Thinking: Model answers often showcase higher-order thinking and analytical skills. Candidates can learn how to approach complex questions with depth and clarity.
  • Presentation Skills: Presentation matters in the UPSC Mains. Model answers can guide candidates on how to use headings, subheadings, bullet points, and diagrams effectively.
  • Language and Expression: Aspirants can learn how to articulate ideas clearly and coherently. Model answers offer insights into using formal language and avoiding jargon or verbosity.
  • Scoring Areas: By analysing solved answers, candidates can identify scoring areas within a question. This helps them allocate their time and effort wisely during the exam.

UPSC Mains Model Answers PDF

The UPSC Mains Model Answers PDF for the Civil Services Examination 2023 are an essential resource for any aspirant who wants to excel in this challenging exam. These model answers are not just solutions; they are comprehensive learning guides that can help you improve your writing skills and knowledge.

By studying the model answers, candidates can learn how to:

  • Decode the demands of each question and tailor their responses accordingly.
  • Articulate their ideas clearly and coherently in a formal style.
  • Use language and expression effectively to communicate complex ideas in a simple yet eloquent way.
  • Identify gaps in their content and use the model answers to enrich their knowledge. 

Access the UPSC Model Answers PDF for the General Studies Paper- I, II, III and IV for Main Examination 2023 from the given links below:

  • GS Paper 1 Model Answers PDF
  • GS Paper 2 Model Answers PDF
  • GS Paper 3 Model Answers PDF
  • GS Paper 4 Model Answers PDF

UPSC Mains GS I to IV Detailed Analysis

Watch the following videos to look at the detailed analysis of GS papers 1 to 4 of the Mains 2023 examination. It will help candidates to understand what can be included in the answers of UPSC Mains and the approach to write detailed answers.

GS Paper 1 Detailed Analysis:

GS Paper 2 Analysis:

GS Paper 3 Analysis:

GS Paper 4 Analysis:

Solved Answers for UPSC Mains GS Paper 1

There are 20 questions asked in the GS papers in the Mains exam. Solved answers to two questions are shared below.

  • Explain the role of Geographical Factors towards the development of Ancient India .
  • What was the difference between Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore in their approach towards education and nationalism?
  • Bring about the Socio-Economic Effects of the Introduction of Railways in Different Countries of the World.
  • Discuss the Consequences of Climate Change on the Food Security in Tropical Countries.
  • Why is the world today confronted with a crisis of availability of and access to freshwater resources?
  • How are the fjords formed? Why do they constitute some of the most picturesque areas of the world?
  • Do you think marriage as a sacrament is losing its value in modern India?
  • Explain why suicide among young women is increasing in Indian society.
  • Child cuddling is now being replaced by mobile phones. Discuss its impact on the socialisation of children.
  • What are the main features of Vedic society and religion? Do you think some of the features are still prevailing in Indian society?
  • What were the major technological changes introduced during the Sultanate period? How did those technological changes influence the Indian society?
  • How did colonial rule affect the tribals in India and what was the tribal response to colonial oppression?
  • Comment on the resource potentials of the long coastline of India and highlight the status of natural hazard preparedness in these areas.
  • Identify and discuss the factors responsible for diversity of Natural Vegetation in India. Assess the significance of wildlife sanctuaries in rainforest regions of India.
  • Why did human development fail to keep pace with economic development in India?
  • From being net food importer in the 1960s, India has emerged as a net food exporter to the world. Provide reasons.
  • Does urbanisation lead to more segregation and/or marginalisation of the poor in Indian metropolises?
  • Why is caste identity in India both fluid and static?
  • Discuss the impact of post-liberal economy on ethnic identity and communalism.

 UPSC Mains Model Answers GS Paper 2

The sample answers of UPSC Mains GS Paper 2 are shared here:

  • "Constitutionally guaranteed judicial independence is a prerequisite of democracy”. Comment.
  • Who are entitled to receive free legal aid? Assess the role of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) in rendering free legal aid in India.
  • “The states in India seem reluctant to empower urban local bodies both functionally as well as financially.” Comment.
  • Compare and Contrast the British and Indian approaches to Parliamentary Sovereignty.
  • Discuss the role of Presiding Officers of state legislatures in maintaining order and impartiality in conducting legislative work and in facilitating best democratic practices.
  • The crucial aspect of development process has been the inadequate attention paid to Human Resource Development in India. Suggest measures that can address this adequacy.
  • Discuss the role of the Competition Commission of India in containing the abuse of dominant position by the Multinational Corporations in India. Refer to the recent decisions.
  • e-governance, as a critical tool of governance, has ushered in effectiveness, transparency and accountability in governments. What inadequacies hamper the enhancement of these features?
  • 'Virus of Conflict is affecting the functioning of the SCO.' In the light of the above statement, point out the role of India in mitigating the problems.
  • Indian diaspora has scaled new heights in the West. Describe its economic and political benefits for India.
  • “The Constitution of India is a living instrument with capabilities of enormous dynamism. It is a constitution made for a progressive society.” Illustrate.
  • Explain the constitutional perspectives of Gender Justice with the help of relevant Constitutional Provisions and case laws.
  • Account for the legal and political factors responsible for the reduced frequency of using Article 356 by the Union Governments since mid 1990s.
  • Discuss the contribution of civil society groups for women’s effective and meaningful participation and representation in state legislatures in India.
  • Explain the significance of the 101st Constitutional Amendment Act. To what extent does it reflect the accommodative spirit of federalism?
  • Explain the structure of the Parliamentary Committee system. How far have the financial committees helped in the institutionalisation of the Indian Parliament?
  • “Development and welfare schemes for the vulnerable, by its nature, are discriminatory in approach.” Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer.
  • Skill development programs have succeeded in increasing human resources supply to various sectors. In the context of the statement, analyze the linkages between education, skill and employment.
  • The expansion and strengthening of NATO and a stronger US-Europe strategic partnership works well in India.’ What is your opinion about this statement? Give reasons and examples to support your answer.
  • Sea is an important Component of the Cosmos’. Discuss in the light of the above statement the role of the IMO (International Maritime Organisation) in protecting the environment and enhancing maritime safety and security.

Model Answers for UPSC Mains GS Paper 3

  • Faster economic growth requires increased share of the manufacturing sector in GDP, particularly of MSMEs. Comment on the present policies of the Government in this regard.
  • What is the status of digitalization in the Indian economy? Examine the problems faced in this regard and suggest improvements.
  • How does e-Technology help farmers in production and marketing of agricultural produce? Explain it.
  • State the objectives and measures of land reforms in India. Discuss how land ceiling policy on landholding can be considered as an effective reform under economic criteria.
  • Introduce the concept of Artificial Intelligence (AI). How does AI help clinical diagnosis? Do you perceive any threat to privacy of the individual in the use of AI in the healthcare?
  • Discuss several ways in which microorganisms can help in meeting the current fuel shortage.
  • Dam failures are always catastrophic, especially on the downstream side, resulting in a colossal loss of life and property. Analyze the various causes of dam failures.
  • What is oil pollution? What are its impacts on the marine ecosystem? In what way is oil pollution particularly harmful for a country like India?
  • Winning of ‘Hearts and Minds’ in terrorism affected areas is an essential step in restoring the trust of the population. Discuss the measures adopted by the Government in this respect as part of the conflict resolution in Jammu and Kashmir.
  • The use of unmanned aerial vehicles(UAVs) by our adversaries across the borders to ferry arms/ammunitions, drugs, etc., is a serious threat to the internal security. Comment on the measures being taken to tackle this threat.
  • Most of the unemployment in India is structural in nature. Examine the methodology adopted to compute unemployment in the country and suggest improvements.
  • Distinguish between ‘care economy’ and ‘monetized economy’. How can care economy be brought into monetized economy through women empowerment?
  • Explain the changes in cropping pattern in India in the context of changes in consumption pattern and marketing conditions.
  • What are the direct and indirect subsidies provided to the farm sector in India? Discuss the issues raised by the World Trade Organization(WTO) in relation to agricultural subsidies.
  • The adoption of electric vehicles is rapidly growing worldwide. How do electric vehicles contribute to reducing carbon emissions and what are the key benefits they offer compared to traditional combustion engine vehicles?
  • What is the main task of India’s third moon mission which could not be achieved in its earlier mission? List the countries that have achieved this task. Introduce the subsystems in the spacecraft launched and explain the role of the ‘Virtual Launch Control Centre’ at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre which contributed to the successful launch from Sriharikota.
  • Comment on the National Wetland Conservation Programme initiated by the Government of India and name a few India’s wetlands of international importance included in the Ramsar Sites.
  • The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change(IPCC) has predicted a global sea level rise of about one metre by AD 2100. What would be its impact in India and the other countries in the Indian Ocean region?
  • What are the internal security challenges being faced by India? Give out the role of Central Intelligence and Investigative Agencies tasked to counter such threats.
  • Give out the major sources of terror funding in India and efforts being made to curtail these sources. In the light of this, also discuss the aim and objective of the ‘ No Money for Terror [NMFT]’ Conference recently held at New Delhi in November 2022.

Model Answers for UPSC Mains GS Paper 4

  • What do you understand by ‘moral integrity’ and ‘professional efficiency’ in the context of corporate governance in India? Illustrate with suitable examples.
  • International aid' is an accepted form of helping resource-challenged' nations, Comment on ethics in contemporary international aid. Support your answer with suitable examples.
  • “Corruption is the manifestation of the failure of core values in the society.” In your opinion what measures can be adopted to uplift the core values in the society?
  • Differentiate ‘moral intuition’ from ‘moral reasoning with suitable examples.
  • What were the major teachings of Guru Nanak? Explain their relevance in the contemporary world.
  • Explain the term social capital. How does it enhance good governance?

© 2024 Vajiram & Ravi. All rights reserved

essay model answer upsc

UPSC Essay Topic wise Question Papers of last 31 years (1993-2023) for Civil Services IAS/IPS Exam Free Download

In the UPSC mains examination, essay paper is worth 250 marks and three hours. Here is the topic wise questions from the earlier years for the benefit of civil service IAS IPS aspirants.

1.1 India Since Independence

1.2 federalism, decentralization, 1.3 administration, 1.4 judiciary, 1.5 poverty, social justice, 1.6 indian society, culture and values, 1.7 media, tv & cinema, literature, 2.1 growth vs development, 2.2 environment vs development, 2.4 sectors of economy, 3.1 values in education, 3.2 scheme implementation, 3.3 higher education, 4.1 character, honesty, ethics, 4.2 knowledge, 4.3 compassion, 4.4 truth and reality, 4.5 youth, discipline, 4.6 towards excellence, 5.1 @national politics, 5.2 @world / quote type, 5.3 empowerment overall, 5.4 compared to men, 6.1 globalization, 6.2 international org./ bilateral, 6.3 security, 6.4 history, 7.1 science and religion, 7.2 science and education, 7.3 computer and internet, 7.4 sci-tech: others, appendix: linear paper of upsc essay 2023, appendix: linear paper of upsc essay 2022, appendix: model answer pe free lecture & powerpoint, appendix: syllabus of essay paper in upsc, 1 india: democracy, administration, society, culture.

  • Is the Colonial mentality hindering India’s Success? -2013
  • In the context of Gandhiji’s views on the matter, explore, on an evolutionary scale, the terms ‘Swadhinata’, ‘Swaraj’ and ‘Dharmarajya’. Critically comment on their contemporary relevance to Indian democracy -2012
  • Dreams which should not let India sleep. -2015
  • Why should we be proud of being Indians? -2000
  • Whither Indian democracy? -1995
  • How far has democracy in India delivered the goods? -2003
  • What we have not learnt during fifty years of independence. -1997
  • What have we gained from our democratic set-up? -2001
  • My vision of India in 2001 a.d. -1993
  • Impact of the new economic measures on fiscal ties between the union and states in India. -2017
  • Water disputes between States in federal India. -2016
  • Cooperative federalism : Myth or reality. -2016
  • Creation of smaller states and the consequent administrative, economic and developmental implication -2011
  • Evaluation of panchayati raj system in India from the point of view of eradication of power to people. -2007
  • Water resources should be under the control of the central government. -2004
  • The language problem in India: its past, present and prospects. -1998
  • There are better practices to “best practices”. -2021
  • How should a civil servant conduct himself? -2003
  • Politics without ethics is a disaster. -1995
  • The VIP cult is a bane of Indian democracy -1996
  • Need for transparency in public administration -1996
  • The country’s need for a better disaster management system. -2000
  • Politics, bureaucracy and business – fatal triangle. -1994
  • We may brave human laws but cannot resist natural laws. -2017
  • Justice must reach the poor -2005
  • Judicial activism and Indian democracy. -2004
  • Judicial activism. -1997
  • A society that has more justice is a society that needs less charity. (- जिस समाज में अधिक न्याय होता है उस समाज को दान की कम आवश्यकता होती है।) – 2023
  • There can be no social justice without economic prosperity but economic prosperity without social justice is meaningless (बिना आर्थिक समृद्धि के सामाजिक न्याय नहीं हो सकता, किन्तु बिना सामाजिक न्याय के आर्थिक समृद्धि निरर्थक है ) -2020
  • Neglect of primary health care and education in India are reasons for its backwardness. -2019
  • The focus of health care is increasingly getting skewed towards the ‘haves’ of our society. -2009
  • Food security for sustainable national development -2005
  • Reservation, politics and empowerment. -1999
  • Culture is what we are, civilization is what we have (जो हम है, वह संस्कार; जो हमारे पास है, वह सभ्यता ) -2020
  • Indian culture today: a myth or a reality? -2000
  • Modernism and our traditional socio-ethical values. -2000
  • The composite culture of India. -1998
  • The Indian society at the crossroads. -1994
  • From traditional Indian philanthropy to the gates-buffet model-a natural progression or a paradigm shift? -2010
  • New cults and godmen: a threat to traditional religion -1996
  • Biased media is a real threat to Indian democracy. -2019
  • Responsibility of media in a democracy. -2002
  • Role of media in good governance -2008
  • Does Indian cinema shape our popular culture or merely reflect it? -2011
  • How has satellite television brought about cultural change in Indian mindsets? -2007
  • Is sting operation an invasion on privacy? -2014
  • Mass media and cultural invasion. -1999
  • The misinterpretation and misuse of freedom in India. -1998
  • Poets are the unacknowledged legislators of the world (कवि संसार के अनधिकृत रूप से विधायक होते हैं) – 2022

2 Economy, Development

  • Poverty anywhere is a threat to prosperity everywhere. -2018
  • Digital economy: A leveller or a source of economic inequality. -2016
  • Innovation is the key determinant of economic growth and social welfare. -2016
  • Near jobless growth in India: An anomaly or an outcome of economic reforms. -2016
  • Crisis faced in India – moral or economic. -2015
  • Was it the policy paralysis or the paralysis of implementation which slowed the growth of our country? -2014
  • GDP (Gross Domestic Product) along with GDH (Gross Domestic Happiness) would be the right indices for judging the wellbeing of a country-2013
  • Can capitalism bring inclusive growth? -2015
  • Resource management in the Indian context. -1999
  • Economic growth without distributive justice is bound to breed violence. -1993
  • Forests are the best case studies for economic excellence (आर्थिक समृद्धि हासिल करने के मामले में वन सर्वोत्तम प्रतिमान होते हैं।) – 2022
  • Alternative technologies for a climate change resilient India. -2018
  • Should a moratorium be imposed on all fresh mining in tribal areas of the country? -2010
  • Urbanisation and its hazards -2008
  • Protection of ecology and environment is essential for sustained economic development. -2006
  • Urbanization is a blessing in disguise. -1997
  • Ecological considerations need not hamper development. -1993
  • Globalization would finish small-scale industries in India. -2006
  • Multinational corporations – saviours or saboteurs -1994
  • Special economic zone: boon or bane -2008
  • Is the criticism that the ‘Public-Private-Partnership’ (PPP) model for development is more of a bane than a boon in the Indian context, justified ?-2012
  • Farming has lost the ability to be a source of subsistence for majority of farmers in India. -2017
  • BPO boom in India. -2007
  • Tourism: Can this be the next big thing for India? -2014
  • Are our traditional handicrafts doomed to a slow death? -2009

3 Education

  • Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in – school. (- शिक्षा वह है जो विद्यालय में विधालय में सीखी गई बातों को भूल जाने के बाद भी शेष रह जाती है।)
  • Destiny of a nation is shaped in its classrooms. -2017
  • Education without values, as useful as it is, seems rather to make a man more clever devil-2015
  • Independent thinking should be encouraged right form the childhood. -2007
  • Are the standardized tests good measure of academic ability or progress? -2014
  • Irrelevance of the classroom. -2001
  • Is the growing level of competition good for the youth? -2014
  • Literacy is growing very fast, but there is no corresponding growth in education. -1996
  • Is an egalitarian society possible by educating the masses ? -2008
  • What is real education? -2005
  • “Education for all” campaign in India: myth or reality. -2006
  • Restructuring of Indian education system. -1995
  • Privatization of higher education in India. -2002
  • Credit – based higher education system – status, opportunities and challenges -2011

4 Quote based, Philosophy, Ethics

  • A smile is the chosen vehicle for all ambiguities (हर असमंजस के लिए मुस्कराहट ही चुनिन्दा साधन है) – 2022
  • Philosophy of wantlessness is a Utopian, while materialism is a chimera. -2021
  • Your perception of me is a reflection of you; my reaction to you is an awareness of me. -2021
  • Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication (सरलता चरम परिष्करण है ) -2020
  • Ships don’t sink because of water around them ships sink because of water that gets into them (जहाज अपने चारों तरफ के पानी के वजह से नहीं डूबा करते, जहाज पानी के अंदर समां जाने की वजह से डूबता हैं ) -2020
  • Life is a long journey between being human and being humane.  (मनुष्य होने और मानव बनने के बीच का लम्बा सफर ही जीवन है)-2020
  • Values are not what humanity is, but what humanity ought to be -2019
  • Best for an individual is not necessarily best for the society -2019
  • Courage to accept and dedication to improve are two keys to success -2019
  • Wisdom finds truth -2019
  • A people that values its privileges above its principles loses both. -2018
  • Customary morality cannot be a guide to modem file. -2018
  • Need brings greed, if greed increases it spoils breed. -2016
  • Character of an institution is reflected in its leader. -2015
  • With greater power comes greater responsibility. -2014
  • Words are sharper than the two-edged sword. -2014
  • Attitude makes, habit makes character and character makes a man. -2007
  • He would reigns within himself and folds his passions and desires and fears is more than a king. -1993
  • Thinking is like a game, it does not begin unless there is an opposite team. (- सोच एक खेल की तरह है, यह तब तक शुरू नहीं होता है जब तक कि एक विपरीत टीम/पक्ष न हो।) – 2023
  • Mathematics is the music of reason. (- गणित ज्ञान का संगीत है।) – 2023
  • The real is rational and the rational is real. -2021
  • Mindful manifesto is the catalyst to a tranquil self (विचारपरक संकल्प स्वयं के शांतचित्त रहने का उत्प्रेरक है )-2020
  • ‘The past’ is a permanent dimension of human consciousness and values. -2018
  • A good life is one inspired by love and guided by knowledge. -2018
  • There is nothing either good or bad but thinking makes it so. -2003
  • Disinterested intellectual curiosity is the lifeblood of civilisation. -1995
  • Joy is the simplest form of gratitude. -2017
  • Compassion is the basic of all morality of the world -1993
  • Lending hands to someone is better than giving a dole. -2015
  • Be the change you want to see in others (Gandhi)-2013
  • Just because you have a choice, it does not mean that any of them has to be right (केवल इसलिए कि आपके पास विकल्प हैं, इसका यह अर्थ कदापि नहीं है कि उनमें से किसी को भी ठीक होना ही होगा) – 2022
  • Reality does not conform to the ideal, but confirms it. -2018
  • Truth is lived, not taught -1996
  • When money speaks, the truth is silent. -1995
  • Search for truth can only be a spiritual problem. -2002
  • The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining (छप्पर मरम्मत करने का समय तभी होता है, जब धूप खिली हुई हो) – 2022
  • You cannot step twice in the same river (आप उसी नदी में दोबारा नहीं उतर सकते) – 2022
  • Discipline means success, anarchy means ruin -2008
  • Youth is a blunder, manhood a struggle, old age a regret -1994
  • If youth knew, if age could. -2002
  • Youth culture today. -1999
  • Fifty Golds in Olympics: Can this be a reality for India? -2014
  • Visionary decision-making happens at the intersection of intuition and logic. (- दूरदर्शी निर्णय तभी लिए जाते है अंतर्ज्ञान और तर्क का परस्पर मेल होता है।) – 2023
  • Not all who wander are lost. (- भटकने वाले सभी गुम नहीं हो जाते।) – 2023
  • Inspiration for creativity springs from the effort to look for the magical in the mundane (- रचनात्मकता की प्रेरणा अलौकिक ता में चमत्कार ढूंढने के प्रयास से उपजति है) – 2023
  • A ship in harbour is safe, but that is not what ship is for (जहाज बन्दरगाह के भीतर सुरक्षित होता है, परन्तु इसके लिए तो वह होता नहीं है) – 2022
  • Quick but steady wins the race. -2015
  • Useless life is an early death. -1994
  • Our deeds determine us, as much as we determine our deeds. -1995
  • The paths of glory lead but to the grave. -2002
  • The pursuit of excellence. -2001

5 Women empowerment

  • Greater political power alone will not improve women’s plight. -1997
  • Women’s reservation bill would usher in empowerment for women in India. -2006
  • The new emerging women power: the ground realities. -1995
  • Hand that rocks the cradle rules the world. -2021
  • If women ruled the world -2005
  • The hand that rocks the cradle -2005
  • Patriarchy is the least noticed yet the most significant structure of social inequality (पितृ-सत्ता की व्यवस्था नजर मैं बहुत काम आने के बावजूद सामाजिक विषमता की सबसे प्रभावी संरचना है) -2020
  • Fulfilment of ‘new woman’ in India is a myth. -2017
  • If development is not engendered, it is endangered. -2016
  • Whither women’s emancipation? -2004
  • Empowerment alone cannot help our women. -2001
  • Women empowerment: challenges and prospects. -1999
  • Woman is god’s best creation. -1998
  • Men have failed: let women take over. -1993
  • Managing work and home – is the Indian working woman getting a fair deal ?-2012

6 International issues, Internal Security, History

  • South Asian societies are woven not around the state, but around their plural cultures and plural identities. -2019
  • Modernisation and westernisation are not identical concepts. -1994
  • ‘globalization’ vs. ‘nationalism’ -2009
  • National identity and patriotism -2008
  • Globalizations and its impact on Indian culture. -2004
  • The masks of new imperialism. -2003
  • As civilization advances culture declines. -2003
  • The implications of globalization for India. -2000
  • My vision of an ideal world order. -2001
  • India’s contribution to world wisdom. -1998
  • The world of the twenty-first century. -1998
  • Preparedness of our society for India’s global leadership role. -2010
  • Technology as the silent factor in international relations (अंतर्राष्ट्रीय संबंधों मैं मौन करक के रूप मैं प्रौद्योगिकी) -2020
  • Has the Non-Alignment Movement (NAM) lost its relevance in a multipolar world ? -2017
  • Restructuring of UNO reflect present realities -1996
  • The global order: political and economic -1993
  • India’s role in promoting ASEAN co-operation. -2004
  • Importance of Indo-US nuclear agreement -2006
  • Management of Indian border dispute is a complex task. -2018
  • In the Indian context , both human intelligence and technical intelligence are crucial in combating terrorism -2011
  • Are we a ‘soft’ state ? -2009
  • Good fences make good neighbours -2009
  • Is autonomy the best answer to combat balkanization? -2007
  • Terrorism and world peace -2005
  • True religion cannot be misused. -1997
  • History repeats itself, first as tragedy, second as farce. -2021
  • Geography may remain the same ; history need not. -2010

7 Science-Technology

  • Spirituality and scientific temper. -2003
  • Science and Mysticism : Are they compatible ?-2012
  • What is research, but a blind date with knowledge! -2021
  • Modern technological education and human values. -2002
  • Value-based science and education. -1999
  • The march of science and the erosion of human values. -2001
  • The process of self-discovery has now been technologically outsourced. -2021
  • Rise of Artificial Intelligence: the threat of jobless future or better job opportunities through reskilling and upskilling. -2019
  • ‘Social media’ is inherently a selfish medium. -2017
  • Cyberspace and Internet : Blessing or curse to the human civilization in the long run -2016
  • Increasing computerization would lead to the creation of a dehumanized society. -2006
  • The cyberworld: its charms and challenges. -2000
  • Computer: the harbinger of silent revolution. -1993
  • Technology cannot replace manpower. -2015
  • Science and technology is the panacea for the growth and security of the nation-2013
  • The modern doctor and his patients. -1997
  • The lure of space. -2004

Section-A (write any one)

  • Thinking is like a game, it does not begin unless there is an opposite team. (- सोच एक खेल की तरह है, यह तब तक शुरू नहीं होता है जब तक कि एक विपरीत टीम/पक्ष न हो।)
  • Visionary decision-making happens at the intersection of intuition and logic. (- दूरदर्शी निर्णय तभी लिए जाते है अंतर्ज्ञान और तर्क का परस्पर मेल होता है।)
  • Not all who wander are lost. (- भटकने वाले सभी गुम नहीं हो जाते।)
  • Inspiration for creativity springs from the effort to look for the magical in the mundane (- रचनात्मकता की प्रेरणा अलौकिक ता में चमत्कार ढूंढने के प्रयास से उपजति है)

Section-B (write any one)

  • Girls are weighed down by restrictions, boys with demands – two equally harmful disciplines. (-लड़कियां बंदिशों के तथा लड़के अपेक्षा के बोझ तले दबे हुए होते हैं दोनों ही समान रूप से हानिकारक व्यवस्थाएं हैं।)
  • Mathematics is the music of reason. (- गणित ज्ञान का संगीत है।)
  • A society that has more justice is a society that needs less charity. (- जिस समाज में अधिक न्याय होता है उस समाज को दान की कम आवश्यकता होती है।)

Answer one-one essay from each section in 1000-1200 words

  • History is a series of victories won by the scientific man over the romantic man (इतिहास वैज्ञानिक मनुष्य के रूमानी मनुष्य पर विजय हासिल करने का एक सिलसिला है।) – 2022
  • A ship in harbour is safe, but that is not what ship is for (जहाज बन्दरगाह के भीतर सुरक्षित होता है, परन्तु इसके लिए तो वह होता नहीं है) & 2022
  • Just because you have a choice, it does not mean that any of them has to be right (केवल इसलिए कि आपके पास विकल्प हैं, इसका यह अर्थ कदापि नहीं है कि उनमें से किसी को भी ठीक होना ही होगा) – 2022

Essay: Candidates may be required to write essays on multiple topics. They will be expected to keep closely to the subject of the essay to arrange their ideas in orderly fashion, and to write concisely. Credit will be given for effective and exact expression.

UPSC CSE 2023 Mains Essay Paper Model Answers

The UPSC Civil Services Main Examination 2023 began with an Essay paper. There were eight essay topics separated into two groups, and aspirants were supposed to write on two of them in three hours, one from each. Candidates were asked to write 1000-1200 words for each essay.

Initial Thoughts

  • This year's essay paper followed the predicted pattern, with five of the eight themes being philosophical in nature. Furthermore, the general tone of the paper was thoughtful and philosophical.
  • Although the topics were simple to understand, it was challenging to select the right topic and then come up with enough content to complete 1000–1200 words.
  • The paper was manageable for aspirants who adhered to the fundamentals of UPSC preparation, such as having a firm understanding of the static syllabus, broad knowledge of current events, and adequate writing practice.

Now, let us discuss each topic separately.

Thinking is like a game, it does not begin unless there is an opposite team

  • This topic appears to be centered on the notion that critical thinking frequently occurs in the interaction to competing ideas or challenges.
  • Candidates may have been asked to investigate how clashes of ideas result in innovation and advancement.

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Visionary decision-making happens at the intersection of intuition and logic

  • Paul O'Brien is the author of this well-known proverb.
  • This comment most likely encouraged candidates to explore the importance of balancing intuition and logic when making crucial decisions.
  • It promotes thinking on the roles of both aspects in good leadership and problem-solving.

essay model answer upsc

Not all who wander are lost

  • This saying belongs to J.R.R. Tolkien, The Fellowship of the Ring.
  • The topic expected from candidates to think about how exploring and being spontaneous in life’s journey can be excellent. It’s a deep topic that can be understood in many different ways.

essay model answer upsc

Inspiration for creativity springs from the effort to look for the magical in the mundane

  • This essay topic appears to promote the notion that creativity is not restricted to rare moments of inspiration, but can also be found in ordinary events. It most likely prompted individuals to consider where creativity comes from and how we may exhibit it in our daily lives.

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Girls are weighed down by restrictions, boys with demands- two equally harmful disciplines

  • This is the saying of Simone de Beauvoir. Simone de Beauvoir was a prominent French existentialist philosopher and feminist thinker. She made significant contributions to feminist philosophy through her work, including “The Second Sex,” where she discussed the concept of “The Other” and examined the role of societal expectations in shaping women’s lives.
  • The quote by Simone de Beauvoir presented the idea that both girls and boys or individuals of different genders, often face distinct but equally harmful forms of societal pressures and constraints.

essay model answer upsc

Mathematics is the music of reasons

  • Mathematics is the music of reason, according to James Joseph Sylvester. Isn't music the mathematics of the senses, and mathematics the music of the reason? The musician feels mathematics, while the mathematician thinks music: music is a dream, and mathematics is a job.”
  • This remark implies a poetic link between mathematics and music. Candidates would almost certainly be required to address the beauty and rationality inherent in mathematics, as well as its role in molding our understanding of the world.

essay model answer upsc

A society that has more justice is a society that needs less charity

  • This topic appears to touch on the concepts of social justice and charity, which have been studied by philosophers such as John Rawls, as well as the “veil of ignorance.”
  • Candidates may have been asked to investigate the relationship in society amongst justice, equality, and generosity.

essay model answer upsc

Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in school

  • Albert Einstein once said, “Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in school.”
  • This essay topic will most likely require candidates to consider the value of education beyond rote memorization. It could have been expected to have a discussion about the practical application of knowledge and lifelong learning.

essay model answer upsc

Conclusion:

  • It makes no difference whether aspirants know where the quotes came from. The only thing that matters is how the given quote is elaborated and supplemented by examples and case studies. All of this is dependent on the critical topic selection. All of this depends on the proper selection of the topic.

Takeaways for 2024

  • As previously stated, the paper was manageable for those who strictly followed the fundamentals of UPSC preparation.
  • The main takeaway from this year's paper is that sufficient writing practise is necessary now.

More about the Art of Essay Writing can be found in Samajho's Corner:

  • Samajho UPSC Essay Series | Part 1 | How to Write an Effective Essay?
  • Samajho UPSC Essay Series | Part 2 | Quotes For Writing an Effective Essay
  • Samajho UPSC Essay Series | Part 3 | Anecdotes For Writing an Effective Essay
  • Samajho UPSC Essay Series | Part 4 | Theme-wise Previous Years Essay Papers
  • Samajho UPSC Essay Series | Part 5 | How to Tackle Philosophical Essays?

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Civil Services 2021

UPSC Essay Model Answer Pointers

By ravi kapoor (irs).

A-1) The process of self-discovery has now been technologically outsourced.

Thing 1: Self-Discovery

Thing 2: Technology

Heart of the Essay topic and Central themes:

The process of Self-discovery encompasses a life-long evolution for humans as they discover both, their environment and themselves through the journey of life.

Partly biological but mostly social, this process involves the formation of basic self-identity from childhood where caregivers and the inner social group shapes the personality of the child, and onwards through adolescence when the peer group becomes the dominant agency for self-discovery. The coming of age of children is a monumental transition into adult life- one which is invariably a deeply social process. While biologically, It might take 2 people to make a human being, It takes a tribe or a family to raise them. No one can come of age in isolation.

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Technology has fundamentally altered this ancient and most sacred of processes. With smart phones and zoom calls, children no longer discover themselves through play but through video-games. We live in a world where social media posts remind us about the birthdays of our own loved ones- all in the midst of a veritable storm of click-bait. Children now discover how much their peers think they are worth by the number of likes, instead of fist-bumps and high-fives. Big Data, AI and the technological wizardry in our pockets and wrists now bombard us with more data about our own selves than we know what to do with….

How is self-discovery changing because of technology? Is it leading to desired outcomes? If not, then what can be done to achieve a synthesis? etc are some themes an aspirant would do well to address in this Essay topic.

A-2) Your perception of me is a reflection of you; my reaction to you is an awareness of me.

Thing 1: Perception of self

Thing 2: Perception of others

Heart of the Essay topic:

Art is in the eye of the beholder might be an understatement for the eyes of the beholder. It seems like our very selves exist only in the eyes of the beholder in as much our perceptions are subjective and personal. When we see ourselves, we see what we want to see. When we see others, we see mostly ourselves projected on to their personas. Thus we never really see the other person objectively.

Our perceptions of ourselves and of others are colored by our expectations. This distortion is the root of stereotyping, xenophobia and all social malice. Much evil has been perpetrated because of our blindness to this subtle force pulling the strings from behind our eyes- genocide, ethnic cleansing and riots are all different faces of projecting hate onto the ‘others’.

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But the process is not all evil. Humans have a need to form social bonds and as a result, in-groups. This is the source of our sense of security and belongingness. It is also the root of empathy and of love.

The caveat is that during the course of doing so, it is easy to forget that the distinctions we impose on people are a matter of our own convenience and are not a truth ordained by nature. A contagious virus, for instance does not distinguish between communities or casts. Covid-19 is a brutal reminder of the artificiality of our socially constructed world.

Self-awareness about this subtle psychic process is called meta-cognition. The ability to observe impartially and to watch ones stream of thoughts passing by  without  acting on them is the seat of all power, all equanimity. But to catch the mind while it is up to it’s trickery is tricky business and reserved for only the most keenly aware among us.

This is the ultimate education for the more self-aware we are ,the more of ourselves we control and the better we can choose to be.

Other themes which might find mention in this topic of UPSC Mains 2021 are- mindfulness, psychology, development etc

A-3) Philosophy of wantlessness is Utopian, while materialism is a chimera.

Thing 1: Wantlessness

Thing 2: Materialism

Heart of the topic:

What is the best way to live life? To desire or not to desire-that is the question. This debate highlights our unending struggle between the desire which compels us forward and the inevitable misery it brings when we follow its lead. The Buddha said that desire is the root of all suffering and he was presumably correct. As a matter of experience- there is no lasting peace to be found in modern life which is rife with desire and consumable pleasures. The solution? To quell desire and to root it out. To be happy, become wantless.

But is this antidote a cure? Does not the meditating monk  want  enlightenment? How else would years of practice and training be justified? We are a species driven to explore the cosmos and to look beyond the big bang- the very moment of creation. We are driven to become millionaires, powerful bureaucrats and to have it all in our fleeting and short lives. More importantly, is it even possible given the evolutionary heritage of humans as the most curious and insatiable of creatures.

wantlessness is utopian materialism is chimera upsc 2021 mains essay

This is not to suggest that desire should be allowed to hold our reigns unfettered. For it will surely drive us into hedonism and self-destruction. Research shows that happiness is not derived from material possessions as much as it is from healthy social relationships. Cars and clothes do not translate to happiness- an appreciative compliment from a friend, does. And therefore materialism turns out to be as empty and vacuous as it’s twin- wantlessness.

Does does equal suffering. It brings with it the aches and pains of growth. In as much as we are purpose-driven, we are driven by desire. In as much as we stop pushing towards a purpose, we cease to exist. To give up desire is to give up purpose and that might not be cost worth paying.

The debate is the fine line between desire and progress and how to balance the two. Some other themes which can be inserted are socialism vs capitalism, consumerism, minimalism etc.

A-4) The real is rational and the rational is real.

Thing 1: Reality

Thing 2: Rationality

Reality is the most slippery of concepts because it defies definition. Even if the mind can comprehend it, language can never adequately capture it. The Jains were keenly aware of this and correctly called their idea of reality-  Anekantavad – meaning literally, the multi faceted. To a physicist, reality is composed of particles which combine according to laws of nature to give rise to the world we live in and indeed, us. While to an idealist, reality is non-material and composed of ideas/concepts. For a dualist, reality lies in the realm of both matter and mind.

If reality is what is experienced by the human mind/brain, then is the reality of a giraffe different from ours? If it is, are there multiple realities- perhaps as many as there are minds? Is reality subject to perception by a conscious mind or is it independent of minds altogether? The mystery of what reality is runs rampant.

upsc essay 2021 the real is rational

What is clear in as much as there are minds, is that intelligence is based on rationality. Rationality is a subset of logic which minds use to navigate the world. We speak of ‘rational decision-making’ to imply decisions taken based on data, objectivity and calculations.

But is reality rational? What can be said about the rationality of nature is that it certainly uses logic in it’s designs. Logical and rational laws determine the movement of planets, the structure of DNA and most things on our scale of the universe. But things take a different flavor at the scale of the sub-atomic where rationality seems to dissipate as particles pop into existence out of the quantum foam of zero space and disappear into what, we know not.

The relationship of rationality and reality is hidden behind a veil looking beyond which seems forbidden.

If nature at it’s most fundamental level can be lax about rationality, then surely humans can expect themselves to be less than rational as well. This is in conformity with research from Behavioral Economics which is essentially the study of human irrationality. One need not refer to research to note the abject irrationality of humans as they exploit the Earth towards a point of no-return as climate change crosses a critical threshold. For a species which lives to reproduce, how paradoxical it is to witness us destroying the world for our own children.

And yet we are on the cusp of creating a truly rational intelligent synthetic life-form as Artificial Intelligence gets smarter by the day. If truly rational intelligence minds can be created by irrational creatures like us, is it so hard to allow for the possibility that an irrational universe could have created us in much the same way?

Perhaps reality is not yet rational but  wants  to be. Would love- the most irrational of forces exist in such a universe?

Other themes which may be discussed- Artificial Intelligence, human emotions, empathy and altruism as irrational but fundamental forces.

B-1) Hand that rocks the cradle rules the world.

Thing1: Hand that rocks the cradle (Nurturance)

Thing 2: The world

None of us would exist without our mothers. Nor would we be us had our cradles not been rocked by gentle, loving hands. The maternal and feminine is the first force we come in contact with upon birth. It is the bedrock upon which children explore their worlds and become fully functioning adults.

But to what extent is the force dominant in today’s world where women, on average are paid less than men for the same jobs. Men hold disproportionate wealth, opportunity and power today in most societies of the world. It was unthinkable for women to have the right to vote or to educate themselves until a few centuries ago. The world appears to rule over the hand that rocks the cradle instead of the other way round.

upsc mains 2021 essay topic hand that rocks the cradle

The maternal and feminine is however, not a human phenomenon but a universal one. We depend on the nurturance of mother nature as much as as child depends on the mother for its survival. Without her, we would cease to exist. The feminine force of nature is a force of love, compassion, care and creation. While we traverse the landscape, we often forget and take for granted the role of our parents in our lives just as we have forgotten how beholden we are to mother nature’s benevolence.

We might have forgotten about the hand of mother nature like mislead children but would do well to realize the debt we owe to the feminine force which truly rules the world.

Themes: Feminism, Compassion, Nurturance, Nature, Environment, Gender-equality etc.

B-2) What is research but a blind date with knowledge

Thing 1: Research

Thing 2: Knowledge

Knowledge may be acquired through intuition and bursts of insight or through careful deliberation. Research is one among many methods to acquire knowledge. Research involves the scientific method- the core values of which are objectivity, reason and verification. It is the process of accumulating information and testing out ideas/hypothesis to see if they survive scrutiny and drawing conclusions based only on rational evidence.

A fundamental tenet of research is to go where the evidence leads. And in as much it is a method to reach knowledge, it can sometimes take surprising twists and turns. Once an hypothesis is opened to research, it can lead the researcher anywhere. The history of science is replete with lucky detours leading to astounding discoveries- the discovery of Penicillin, DNA and Jupiter, to name a few.

upsc mains 2021 essay research is blind date with knowledge

Research is not the only thing on a blind date. Our fleeting human lives are on a blind date with destiny where infinite stories unfold in every moment. This is because of the inherent unpredictability of the universe. Research just mirrors this fundamental uncertainty.

Most research opens more questions than it answers. This makes science hard and unpredictable. It also makes it uncomfortable because research can lead to some discomforting revelations. Ever since Galileo discovered that the Earth was not the center of the universe, there has been wave after wave of humbling news for humanity. Not only we are not at the center of the universe but exist on a pale blue dot near a humdrum star, orbiting with millions of other worlds in a galaxy like billions of other galaxies. But why go to the farthest reaches of the cosmos when discomforting truths are found close to home- a recent case in point is the UNFCC report on Climate change which warns of impending disaster if global warming is not curtailed and predicts dire consequences for humanity’s inaction.

Who would have thought a few centuries ago that humans will walk the moon? or split the atom? or defeat an invisible disease by manipulating the virus’ molecular structure? The world which science has revealed to us is far more beautiful, mysterious amazing and mind-blowing than we could ever have imagined.

Research is on a blind date with truth because truth truly  is  stranger than fiction.

B-3) History repeats itself, first as a tragedy, then as a farce

Natural disasters and calamities are the result of forces much larger than human beings and we hold little power to prevent them from occurring.

The difference between a devastating tsunami and a devastating war is that we, alone are responsible for the latter. An Earthquake or a tsunami can come without warning and may repeatedly occur but our human response and preparedness to these natural events is not set in stone.

But if we know this to be the case then why is history littered with wars and tragedies? Is history then a chronology of events or a repository of human mistakes?

upsc mains 2021 history repeats itself

The latter offers a more interesting prospect because with a list of mistakes passed on from generation to generation, humans can learn from them. And to some extent we have.

History repeating itself from World War I in World War II was a tragedy-an unfortunate and regrettable turn of events. Thankfully the farce has not yet occurred in the several decades after the tragic war as the United Nations has kept World War III at bay. This is not say that it will never occur. If it does, it might be the final farce humanity will witness.

And yet we find ourselves poised to create the greatest farce the world has ever seen as we fail to arrest global warming within sustainable levels pushing not only ourselves, but thousands of other species, to their doom.

B-4) There are better practices, to best practices

Assignment:

  • Deconstruct the above Essay topic from UPSC Mains 2021 into   Thing 1 and Thing 2
  • Try to drill down to the heart of the essay topic and identify key debates
  • Write a micro-essay in less than 300 words

Free Useful Resources : Click anywhere on the cards given below to access the respective resource.

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UPSC Mains Model Answers

essay model answer upsc

Answer writing is a continuous exercise that is an inalienable part of the preparation process for the Civil Services Examination. A well-written answer not only reflects the knowledge of an aspirant but also his/her ability to tailor the content in a manner suited to meet the expectations of the question.

Somehow, this is easier said than done. Many questions abound in the minds of students, for example: How does one pick and choose which points to include in an answer and which to leave out? What does a good answer look like? , etc.

Answer Writing for IAS Mains

We at the BYJU’S IAS team have realised that despite going through the content for various subjects, students still face a challenge in terms of putting pen to paper and writing down the points in a manner most fitting the expectations of a UPSC answer.

Keeping this in mind, we have realised the need to publish some of the best answers written by students across the country in response to the subjective type questions we share with them. It is strongly believed that aspirants and readers alike would get a hands-on feel of what some of the best answers would actually look like on paper. Further, this initiative dovetails well our larger idea of empowering our students towards writing better answers for the Mains examination. We sincerely hope that this initiative will go a long way towards helping our students achieve success in this examination.

How this initiative will help you?

  • Get to know what other aspirants across the country are writing in terms of answers that meet the expectations of the questions.
  • Get to know your own level of preparedness with respect to the Civil Services Examination.
  • Get further inspired towards writing better answers and improving your own answer writing skill
  • Understand the different nuances between the various operative words for example: “Critically Analyze”, “Discuss”, “Elucidate”, etc.
  • Realizing a critical point that a “well-filled” answer isn’t the same as a “well-formed” answer.
  • Understanding the different narratives that a GS answer and Essay papers often need so as to invite high marks from the examiner

UPSC Mains Answer Writing Practice

You can send in your answers to questions posted on the UPSC Mains Answer Writing Practice Page where you can also view your fellow aspirants’ answers. Click on the link for more.

Get more information and tips regarding the UPSC Exams by clicking on the link given below:

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UPSC Mains 2023 Question Paper & Solution PDFs [Download]

Mains 2023 Question Paper download

Welcome to our dedicated resource page for UPSC aspirants seeking the UPSC Mains 2023 Question Paper in PDF format. As part of our commitment to supporting your journey to becoming a civil servant, we understand the pivotal role that accessing the right materials plays in your preparation.

These UPSC Mains 2023 question papers are an invaluable resource for understanding the exam’s complexity, question trends, and the depth of knowledge required.

Download UPSC Mains Question Paper PDF 2023

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To access the UPSC Mains 2023 Question Paper PDFs, simply click the provided links on this page.

Download UPSC Main 2023 Solutions

Model Answers:

Importance of Civil Services Main Exam papers

Importance of UPSC Mains Question Paper 2023

Assessment of Preparedness: Previous year question papers provide a tangible benchmark for aspirants to evaluate their level of preparedness. By attempting these papers, candidates can gauge their strengths and weaknesses in different subjects.

Understanding Exam Pattern and Trends: Analyzing past question papers helps aspirants discern recurring patterns in the types of questions asked, the weightage of different topics, and the overall format of the examination. This understanding aids in tailoring a more focused and effective preparation strategy.

Improving Answer Writing Skills: The Mains exam requires candidates to express their knowledge effectively through written responses. Practicing with previous year question papers hones candidates’ answer writing skills, helping them articulate their thoughts concisely and coherently.

Solved Mains Papers:

  • Download – 10 years Mains Paper PDFs

UPSC Mains 2023 Paper Video Discussion : https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL7Nkpcu_k2VInFmzObT26qvDyhBl5HlVl

Read Solution by Rau’s IAS for UPSC Mains Papers:

Learn from the experts. Rau’s IAS solutions are written by experienced faculty members who have a deep understanding of the UPSC Mains syllabus. By reading the solutions, you can learn from their expertise and insights.

The UPSC Mains 2023 Question Papers are an indispensable resource for every serious UPSC aspirant. They serve as compasses, guiding candidates through the intricate terrain of the examination.

Update: UPSC 2023 Final Result

Where can I find and download UPSC Mains Question Paper PDFs?

You can find and download UPSC Mains Question Paper PDFs on the Compass website. This website is a comprehensive resource hub catering to the needs of UPSC aspirants. It offers free access to the past 10 years’ question papers, providing valuable material for your preparation.

When will the UPSC Mains 2023 Question Paper PDFs be available for download?

Mains 2023 Question Paper PDFs will be available for download starting from September 15, 2023.

Is there a limit to how many times I can download UPSC Mains Question Paper PDFs?

No, there is no limit! Feel free to access and download the resources as many times as you find necessary for your preparation.

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UPSC Essay Paper 2023 Analysis, Check PDF Download Link_1.1

UPSC Essay Paper 2023 Analysis, Check PDF Download Link

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has administered the CSE Mains 2023 Essay Paper on September 15. Download PDF and Check the UPSC Essay Paper 2023 Analysis of question here.

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UPSC Essay Paper 2023 Analysis

The UPSC Essay Paper is an important component that evaluates candidates’ knowledge as well as their ability to clearly and simply express concepts. This analysis explores the subtleties of this exam section, revealing trends, approaches, and ideas for future civil employees. The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducted the IAS Mains 2023 Essay Paper on September 15, 2023. Check here UPSC Essay Paper 2023 detailed analysis below with proper model answers.

UPSC Essay Paper 2023 PDF

The Essay Paper of UPSC Mains 2023 is available in PDF format. The exam was successfully administered by UPSC at Forenoon on September 15, 2023. 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, session. The UPSC Essay Paper is of  250 Marks. Candidates can check the UPSC Essay Paper 2023 PDF Link below

UPSC Essay Paper 2023 Questions

The questions asked in the UPSC Essay paper 2023 have been mentioned below:

  • Thinking is like a game, it does not begin unless there is an opposite team.
  • Visionary decision-making happens at the intersection of intuition and logic.
  • Not all who wander are lost
  • Inspiration for creativity springs from the effort to look for the magical in the mundane
  • Girls are weighed down by restrictions, boys with demands – two equally harmful disciplines
  • Mathematics is the music of reason
  • A society that has more justice is a society that needs less charity
  • Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in the school

UPSC Essay Paper 2023 Section A

Check here 4 questions of a UPSC Essay Paper 2023 Section A.

Essay section A

UPSC Essay Paper 2023 Section B

Check here 4 questions of a UPSC Essay Paper 2023 Section B.

Essay Section B

UPSC Essay Paper 2023 Detailed Discussion Question-wise

Check the Question-Wise detailed discussion on UPSC Essay Paper 2023 below:

1. Thinking is like a game, it does not begin unless there is an opposite team.

Approach : 

  • Thinking as a human nature.
  • Features of thinking as a GAME – connecting thinking to a game.
  • Game is based on competition. 
  • Various dimensions to connect

Thesis – Thinking (like a game)  begins with a competition (it can be opposite views, adversary conditions/Challenges.

Philosophical basis : Hegels idea of dialectics.

Meaning/Context:  

  • Thinking  in simple terms is  a  problem-solving activity.
  •  pondering or reflecting on something. 
  • Analysing and evaluating options
  • Goal-directed behaviour. 
  • From choosing a dress to wear to solving a mathematical problem, all activities involve thinking.

Historical Examples:

  • Ancient : To protect from animal attacks and other dangers , humans started to live in bands–thats the basis of community/society.
  • Modern: Masses of Indian -sub-continent as a united against the oppressive policies of the British in the National Movement.

Examples from Different Dimensions

  • Individual : In day to day life of individual, its the competition that drives our thinking from simple decisions like chosing a dress to major decisions like deciding on the careers.
  • Societal : Ex: Social reforms in Hindu society were initiated through Arya Samaj due to the fear of westernisation and threat of conversions.
  • Political : Fear of opposition from rival political parties  in the Parliament checks the misuse of  power by the incumbent government. (or) Presence of multiple political parties and their debates during the election campaigns ignites the thinking of the common man towards the major issues.
  • Ex: Presence of multiple competitors in the telecom sector resulted in faster adoption of 4g technology in India.
  • Governance : Competitive fedaralism by NITI Aayog giving best outputs,
  • Environmental : Modern Environmentalism started due to the opposition to industrial revolution.
  • International Relations :   Countries’ goal to  become superpower makes them to adher to the principles of peace.
  • Other examples – Covid, globalization 

Anti-Thesis : Thinking does not always require Competition to begin.

  • Thinking can also happen by chance without any goal –For ex: it can happen through curiosity–Example: Newtons’ discovery of gravity, Human discovery of fire etc.
  • Destructive thinking: Hitler

2. Visionary decision making happen at the intersection of intuition and logic

  • Decision making in everyday life – basis of human survival. E.g. Evolution of Humans from apes and role of decision making
  • Role of Intuition in decision making ( Navigating Ambiguity, Intuition is a source of creativity, as are innovation,​​ Making social and interpersonal decisions, Risk assessment: Personal Values and Ethics )
  • Logic as assistance in decision making ( Identifying Relevant Information, Analyzing Options, Consistency, Problem Solving)
  • Requirement of both intuition and logic for visionary decision.
  • How to develop intuition and logic and balance them for visionary decision making. 

Thesis: Visionary decision possible at intersection. 

Examples and Arguments: 

  • Innovation and creativity – Steve Jobs’ visionary choice to create the iPhone –  result of his creative vision and intuition about what consumers needed.
  • Financial innovations in the form of UPI – logic made it difficult as financial transactions were already happening, but intuitive ness about its adoption was the major factor for its success.
  • Risk-taking: Elon Musk’s visionary choice to use SpaceX – intuition about the significance of extraterrestrial colonisation drove him to take the risk despite logic’s assertions to the contrary.
  • Long-Term Perspective: Mahatma Gandhi had a brilliant idea to use nonviolent resistance – while logic might have suggested a more combative strategy, his gut feeling about the long-term advantages of nonviolence and unity resulted in a historic change.
  • Human and societal factors: requires knowledge of societal dynamics, human behaviour, and values. E.g. A doctor may have logical medical data but also needs to consider the patient’s emotional state and unique circumstances .
  • Transcending Conventions: Visionary choices go against accepted beliefs and norms. Nelson Mandela’s visionary choice to seek out forgiveness and reconciliation in South Africa after the end of apartheid.

More examples –

  • Watson and Crick’s Discovery of DNA’s Structure.
  • Alexander Fleming’s discovery of penicillin.
  • Alfred Wegener’s intuition about continents drifting led to the plate tectonics theory and logic through dscoveries of fossils.
  • Charles Darwin’s intuition about natural selection and the evolution of species led to his groundbreaking work, “On the Origin of Species.”
  • Franklin D. Roosevelt – The New Deal: FDR’s intuition led him to understand the desperation and suffering caused by the Great Depression. The New Deal was a well-thought-out set of policies aimed at reviving the economy through public works projects, banking reforms, and social programs.

Anti Thesis: Why intuition and logic alone are not sufficient to achieve it.

Challenges and Pitfalls: Potential challenges of relying too heavily on intuition or logic in visionary decision making.

  • Over Reliance on logic: Nokia’s Missed Smartphone Revolution – Over Reliance on logic can lead to a reluctance to embrace disruptive innovations. Fall of Kodak cameras.
  • Over Reliance on intuition: Elizabeth Holmes, the founder of Theranos, had a vision to revolutionize blood testing. Holmes ignored red flags and critical feedback, ultimately undermining the company’s credibility . Also – 2008 economic crisis, NASA’s Space Shuttle Challenger disaster in 1986 was partially attributed to a decision made based on intuition  
  • Importance of self-awareness in decision-makers: Balancing intuition and logic is crucial in visionary decision-making. Self-awareness is the key to achieving this balance.

How to develop intuition and logic and balancing them for visionary decision making:

  • Cultivate Intuition: Self-Reflection, Trust Your Gut, Embrace Creativity, Mindfulness and Meditation etc.
  • Develop Logical Thinking: Analytical Exercises, Data Analysis, Scenario Planning
  • Balancing Intuition and Logic: Collaborate, Feedback Loops, Continuous Learning

Conclusion: Visionary decision-making resulted from the harmonious interplay of intuition and logic. Intuition provided the overarching purpose and direction, while logic offered the means to translate those visionary goals into practical, achievable outcomes. – “Intuition alone can be a powerful guiding force, but logic is the tool that transforms vision into reality.”

3. Not all who wander are lost

  • Introduction with anecdote
  • Arguments on essence of wandering – Integrating examples
  • Counter viewpoints
  • Pre-conclusion – Administrative dimension – Need of balancing wandering with clarity of purpose

Introduction – Story of Siddhartha Gautama/ Columbus’ quest of exploring the unknown

The topic reflects the idea that those who may appear lost or aimless may, in fact, be on a heroic quest . This perspective challenges preconceived notions and encourages us to look beyond appearances.

Essence of Wandering 

  • Leads to exploration – Societal level, Individual introspection (Linking this with introductory story of Gautam Buddha)
  • Personal growth and self-discovery (Introspection leads to critical thinking, we understand why one behaves in a certain way). Example – Philosophy of Tao 
  • Quest for knowledge (Such deep wandering into the psyche of oneself and others may lead to gaining significant knowledge). Ex – Ferdinand Magellan discovery of the nature of Earth surface. 
  • Creativity and innovation (Insights and knowledge acquired through wandering may lead to creativity and innovation) Thomas Alva Edison
  • Breaking free from conformity (Innovation/Creativity will challenge deep seated stereotypes and prejudices and in turn lead to breaking the conformity bias) 
  • Struggling for change/reform –  Cuba cost effective health care and education despite being wandering with revolutions and system of government 

Embracing uncertainty/Resisting the fear of unknown

It suggests that not having a fixed destination can be liberating, allowing us to adapt to the unexpected and be open to new experiences. This is particularly relevant in a rapidly changing world where flexibility and adaptability are highly valued.

Movements for social justice – LGBTQIA+, Environment, Women Empowerment, Caste equality movements.

Counter viewpoint  

Survivorship bias

  • Bias for those who do not get lost after wandering – but what about those who have / will lose after wandering?

Potential for Wasted Time :

  • Wandering without a purpose or goal can lead to a significant amount of time and resources being spent without tangible results. 
  • In certain contexts, such as education or career planning, meandering aimlessly may result in missed opportunities or delayed achievements.

Risk of Disconnection

Individuals who prioritise aimless exploration over obligations to family, work, or community may find themselves isolated or struggling to meet their obligations.

Pre conclusion remarks – Linkage with Indian administration – 

How wandering in the realm of bureaucratic rigidities led to the loss of purpose (welfare state). However, the decision to explore the path of “Digital world” has made governance citizen-centric. Balancing the wandering/exploration with clarity of purpose is paramount to achieve the dreams of AMRIT KAAL.

“Not all who wander are lost” invites us to navigate the complexities of life with an open heart and a curious mind, to embrace uncertainty and spontaneity, and to recognize that even those who appear to be wandering aimlessly may be on profound journeys of self-discovery and growth. It is an intellectual call to balance the pursuit of goals and the pursuit of wisdom, acknowledging that both are valuable and, at times, intertwined in the tapestry of human existence.

4. Inspiration for creativity springs from the effort to look for the magical in the mundane

  • Idea of creativity and basis for inspiration
  • Creativity thrives when we uncover the extraordinary within the ordinary—finding magic in the mundane.
  • This drives innovation across art, science, and technology, spurring personal growth, solving everyday problems, and shaping history.
  • It serves as a catalyst for progress and enriches the human experience.

Anecdote for Introduction

Walking on the sand – taking a stroll on a beach, same sand – Silicon – semiconductors , Uranium – nuclear weapons/energy.

Thesis: Creativity is the spark that ignites our imagination, enabling us to see the extraordinary in the ordinary.  What fuels this inexhaustible well of creativity?

It is the ability to see the extraordinary within the ordinary, to find the magical in the mundane. 

It reminds us that the world is full of wonder waiting to be discovered, even in the most ordinary of circumstances.

Dimensions:

  • Art and Aesthetics

Vincent van Gogh’s “Starry Night.” 

Artists take commonplace objects, scenes, and emotions and elevate them to the realm of the extraordinary. 

  • Startups and small businesses
  • Companies like Uber and Airbnb turned everyday tasks like transportation and lodging into magical, on-demand experiences, revolutionizing their respective sectors.
  • The “Dabbawalas” of Mumbai , who efficiently deliver home-cooked lunches to workers across the city.
  • Science and Innovation
  • Think of Isaac Newton’s observation of an apple falling from a tree, which led to his groundbreaking insights into gravity.
  • Consider Iphones ( Steve Jobs) , initially designed for communication but now integral to our lives, connecting us to an expansive digital world.
  • Economy/Finance
  • UPI Payments – brining financial revolution – from McDonalds to Street vendors
  • Energy Security
  • Renewable energy – like Solar – tapping the potential of Sun 
  • Biofuels – driving vehicles with cleaner, simple fuels 
  • Administrative Innovation : Bureaucrats using simple /mundane solutions for fixing societal issues.
  • Armstrong Palme – People’s Road
  • Operation Sulaimani – Prashant Nair – ‘’Compassionate Kozhikode’ – hunger and food security
  • Problem Solving/ Challenges

Consider a chef in a bustling restaurant kitchen. They take ordinary ingredients—flour, water, and yeast—and transform them into the magical delight of freshly baked bread.

  • On a personal level, seeking the magical in the mundane is a pathway to self-discovery and personal growth. The daily routines and tasks of life may seem routine, but they can be opportunities for mindfulness and reflection. 

Antithesis /Alternate Perspective

  • AI usage – killing creativity – only some will use AI for creativity but for the majority, creativity will get killed.
  • Specific class of intellectuals – Gramsci’s Manufacturing Consent 
  • Circumstances for thinking – societal norms controlling mind – reducing innovation

Conclusion:

  • Embracing the idea that inspiration can be found in everyday experiences is crucial for fostering innovation and ensuring a brighter, more imaginative future. 
  • As we navigate the complexities of our ever-changing world, let us remember that even the most ordinary of things can hold the spark of creativity and the potential for magic.
  • The magic is not just out there; it’s within us, waiting to be uncovered in the world around us.

5. Girls are weighed down by restrictions, boys with demands – two equally harmful disciplines

Introduction

  • Breaking down the first part- Girls are weighed down by restrictions
  • Breaking down the second part – Boys are weighed down with demands
  • Why such a scenario
  • Multidimensional Impact of these harmful disciplines – Family level, society, nation, Political, economical, etc.
  • Are these two disciplines equally harmful?

Countering these harmful disciplines

  • India, a nation heralded for its rich cultural heritage and a history spanning millennia , is also a place where gender disparities have endured for generations. 
  • The intricate web of expectations placed upon girls, often characterised by social, familial, and cultural restrictions, can inhibit their aspirations, education, and personal freedoms. 
  • Simultaneously, boys face the weight of societal demands that prescribe specific notions of masculinity, often emphasising stoicism, competitiveness, and emotional restraint

Girls are weighed down by restrictions

  • Traditional gender roles and expectations may dictate that girls should prioritise domestic responsibilities over personal aspirations, conform to rigid standards of beauty and behaviour , and shy away from traditionally male-dominated fields. 
  • Emotional: Cannot express anger /aggressiveness–only love, empathy, care etc. are acceptable. 
  • Family and Marriage:   Patriarchy; Restrictions on choosing life partner; child birth  etc.
  • Career: Restrictions on  taking up professions like Mechanical Engineering , Combat role in Army etc. ( Gender ceiling ; Pink collared jobs etc.)
  • Economy: Restrictions/ non-inclusion /no independence  in major  financial decisions.
  • Consequences : These restrictions can stifle their ambitions, self-expression, and personal growth.

Boys with demands

  • Boys often grapple with societal demands that pressure them to conform to notions of masculinity that may not align with their authentic selves. 
  • Emotional : Boys are not supposed to cry even in bitter conditions.
  • Clothes : Colours and style as set up the society Ex: Pink is almost not acceptable
  • Physical : Physical Strength
  • Relationship :  Not to show equality towards spouse
  • Marriage: Taking Dowry 
  • Career :  Towards  Engineering, Army, Police etc.
  • Economy: To bear the financial burden of the entire family
  • Culture: To carry out the legacy of family
  • Consequences : These demands may include suppressing emotions, pursuing aggressive behaviours, and demonstrating dominance. The pressure to meet these demands can lead to emotional repression, mental health issues, and a perpetuation of harmful stereotypes about masculinity.

Why? – Social norms, Perpetuation of stereotypes through social interactions, misinterpretation of religious texts, popular culture, cinema, etc.

Impact of these two harmful disciplines: 

  • Limiting Personal Growth
  • Impeding social progress – Not conducive for national development
  • Non inclusive society

Are the two disciplines equally harmful or not? 

  • Arguments in favour
  • Reinforces Gender stereotypes – limits individual freedom and self expression 
  • Adversely impacts emotional well being .
  • Perpetuates gender inequality and disturbs social peace–Men Vs. Women debate will continue.
  • Limits life choices thereby repressing personal autonomy and Individual freedom 
  • Arguments against
  • Biological limitations:  Physical strength is a natural fact. Therefore, such limitations may not be harmful for certain segments.
  • Cultural limitations:  To preserve the culture to bind together the families through division of work and responsibilities.
  • Societal Limitations: Society is not yet matured enough to accept breaking the gender roles and stereotypes.
  • Infrastructural Limitations: Ex:  Lack of Toilets and other necessary infrastructure for women is an issue to recruit women in combat roles in the army.
  • More harmful to girls than boys as boys through demands at least get opportunities. However such opportunities are denied to girls due to restrictions.

Breaking barriers and building the nation – Countering the two harmful disciplines.

Conclusion: 

  • There are examples of women breaking their restrictions. Ex- Kiran Bedi
  • Matrelinial societies build on breaking restrictions.
  • Husbands also contributing in breaking limitations. Ex – division of house work.

6. Mathematics is the ‘music of reason’

  • Similarity between Maths and Music 
  • Linkage between Maths and Reason 
  • Why Maths is considered as the ‘Music of Reason’
  • Way Ahead – Steps which can be taken to build Passion for Maths among young people

Similarity between Maths and Music

Similar to Music, to do mathematics is to engage in an act of

  • Discovery of Pythagorous 
  • Ex Srinivisa Ramanujan contribution to pure mathematics, without any formal knowledge, which led to many discoveries. 
  • His last notebooks just before his death caused excitement among Mathmaticians 
  • Aryabhatta discovery of zero
  • to be in a state of confusion— Do not know what your creation can lead to
  • Newton contributions in calculus, technology of telescope etc and how it helped in Modern Physics
  • Recent research, in which Math models were used to gain new insight on how breast cancer metastasizes.
  • to be frustrated as an artist; 
  • to be awed and overwhelmed by an almost painful beauty; to be alive, damn it.”

Linkage b/w Maths and Reason

  • Mathematics is often described as a discipline rooted in pure reason. While it is influenced by empirical observations and practical applications, it is ultimately built on a foundation of abstract reasoning and logical deduction.

Reason why Mathematics is considered the ‘Music of Reason’

Requires Passion 

Continuous pursuit of Knowledge

Can lead to collaborations for greater good 

Inculcates logical Thinking and Reason 

Results in creation which stand the test of time

  • Provides Harmony in patterns – music of reason because it emphasized beauty of patterns, symmetry and harmony. 
  • Mathematical concepts underpin various technological advancement.  
  • Mathematical equation and concepts reveal the inherent order in the Universe. 
  • Transcends cultural and linguistic barriers → Universal language Understood by scientist, engineering and Finance
  • International collaboration in the above field takes place. 
  • Cultivates Problem solving skills and logical thinking → Helps tackle real world problems. 
  • Cultivates Reason → Valuable in decision making 
  • Forms the basis of artificial intelligence, cryptography and data science etc.
  • Ancient times – Jantar Mantar, 
  • Add examples – 
  • Economic Significance → Role played by Maths in economics finance, resource allocation etc. 
  • for example calculus is used to determine the rate of speed required for the spaceship to successfully reach space from the Earth. 
  • India’s achievements in space exploration, especially Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan), Chandrayaan 3 mission which was celebrated for its cost-effectiveness and precision in trajectory calculations, demonstrating the role of mathematics in space endeavours.
  • Educational and Skill development  → Provides Individuals with analytical skills and problem solving → example of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) will help develop future professionals. 
  • Interdisciplinary Connections: Intersects with various other disciplines such as Computer Science, economics and Social Science. Thus, helps with Interdisciplinary research to provide Innovative solutions to the problems 

Way Ahead – Change in culture to make Maths be seen as an artistic pursuit

  • Talk about why Maths should be taken as an intellectually engaged, artistic pursuits. 
  • Take Maths as a a tool for collaboration (Similar to Music where artists collaborate example of collaboration in field of Space), persistence (similar to music work towards persistently finding new algorithms etc.), growth mindset (offer praise, nurturing the passion for Maths among student), Make students love Maths (stop the culture of hating Maths etc.) 

7. A society that has more justice is a society that needs less charity

  • Meaning/Context  : A just society is one that strives to eliminate the root causes of inequality and suffering , thereby reducing the need for charitable assistance.
  • Idea of Justice
  • Historical dimension
  • Interplay of Justice and Charity through multiple layers of society
  • Significance of charity in today’s society

Historical Dimension 

  • Concept of charity started when social justice took a backseat with caste and gender divisions–charity in fact shows the inequalities in society (where rich are able to donate to poor).

Different Dimensions of Society

  • Ex: Stephen Hawking’s disability did not let him to depend on charity.
  • Community :  Historically Disadvantaged sections of Indian society like SC/STs- were ensured with  social justice through affirmative action in the constitution.
  • Subnational level : Hilly and tribal regions are provided with special provisions  in the constitution. (Fifth and Six Schedule )
  • Social Justice has no room for freebies in elections , farm loan waivers etc. 
  • World :   Inclusion of African Union to G20–African nations need no charity but chances for opportunities for growth.

Significance of  Charity in Current Times 

  • Historical injustices have perpetuated inequalities in the society in the form of caste class, gender , religion etc.— constitution ensures social justice to these sections– but it will take a long time to correct these (even though progress has been significant) -hence charity (from individuals. Corporates and institutions) provide support to the desired sections of population to a certain extent.
  • Global North vs Global South
  • Impact of Climate Change – Common but Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR) 
  • Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) – balancing profits with the social needs.

Conclusion : The ultimate goal of society is to reduce  the need for charity.

8. Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in the school

  • Meaning of Education and significance for humans.
  • Role of learning: Learning is a process which results in a more or less permanent modification of behaviour as a result of practice or experience.
  • Distinguish between education and schooling/learning → Only positive or desirable learning contributes to the process of education while negative or undesirable learning is not considered a part of education.
  • The Importance of Lifelong Learning and how education inculcates this.

Meaning/Context 

  • Education has different contextual meaning – the economist would see education as a commodity in which it is profitable for the community to invest. Sociologists would tell people that education is a socializing force, Education as a Spiritual Pursuit: According to the Upanishads, “Education is that whose end product is salvation”
  • Nevertheless, education is there in all of the above and each one is linked to the process of education, yet it lies above all these.
  • It is believed that education should prepare individuals for active participation in a democratic society.

Historical Dimension

  • Education is derived from  – “Educare”, which refers to “to bring up’ or “to nourish”.
  • In India, the concept of education is traced back to the “Gurukula Parampara” which developed in ancient times.

Distinguish between education and schooling/learning

  • Value system/ wisdom comes from experience while learning teaches academic knowledge and information. Example –  only after seeing pain, death and suffering  Siddhartha became Buddha.  
  • True education extends beyond memorization and tests, leaving a lasting imprint on an individual’s character, values, and ability to navigate the complexities of life. E.g. NEP fosters foundational learning away from rote learning.
  • Education exposes individuals to diverse cultures, histories, and perspectives, nurturing cultural and social awareness. This understanding promotes tolerance, inclusivity, and the ability to thrive in a globalized world. 

The success of renowned entrepreneurs like Steve Jobs and Bill Gates, who dropped out of college, highlights how the problem-solving skills and innovative thinking acquired in their educational journey laid the foundation for their groundbreaking careers.

The Importance of Lifelong Learning and how education inculcates this?

  • Adaptation to Change : In a rapidly changing world.
  • Personal Growth : Lifelong learning fosters personal growth and self-improvement.
  • Career Advancement : Lifelong learners are often more competitive in the job market. 
  • Problem Solving : Lifelong learning enhances critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
  • Cognitive Health : Continuous learning helps maintain cognitive health and may delay cognitive decline associated with aging. 
  • Increased Confidence : Acquiring new knowledge and skills boosts self-confidence and self-esteem. 
  • Enhanced Communication : Lifelong learning can improve communication skills, including written and verbal communication.
  • Social Engagement : Lifelong learners often engage in social activities related to their interests, fostering connections and a sense of belonging within communities of learners.
  • Innovation and Creativity : Exposure to diverse ideas and experiences through lifelong learning can inspire innovation and creativity.

Way Forward: John Dewey’s 7 principles: Experiential Learning, Child-Centered Education , Learning by Doing, Integration of Subjects, Democratic Education, Continuous Learning, Problem-Centered Curriculum, Social Interaction.

Conclusion: Aristotle advocated for a balanced education that included the cultivation of moral virtues, intellectual virtues, and practical skills.  In essence, education endures as a beacon that guides individuals throughout their lives, illuminating the path toward personal growth, societal progress, and the betterment of humanity as a whole.

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UPSC Essay Paper 2023 Analysis FAQs

What are the rules for writing essay in upsc.

Candidates have to select a topic from each section and write about it in 1,000 to 2,000 words within the given time of three hours.

How to score good marks in essay UPSC?

Here are a few tips to help you achieve this score: - Understand the essay topic: Read the topic carefully and analyze its various dimensions. Develop a clear understanding of what the essay demands. - Plan your essay: Spend some time brainstorming and organizing your thoughts before you start writing.

Do essay questions repeat in UPSC?

Yes, UPSC does repeat its previous year's questions in the Prelims exam.

Can essay be written in bullet points?

Yes. There is no hard and fast rule; that being said, if this is for a course assignment, I would be careful about it. Some instructors might consider bullet points too informal for an essay.

What is a decent score in essay UPSC?

As the essay paper is out of 250, marks which are above 50% can be considered good, ie. 125. Marks between 110-125 is considered as average.

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UPSC 2023 topper Aditya Srivastava's mock essay copy goes viral, netizens react

T he UPSC 2023 results were recently announced, with Lucknow's Aditya Srivastava emerging as the IAS topper. As aspirants gear up for UPSC prelims 2024, many are eager to learn from the strategies of Aditya and other toppers. Aditya's essay mock test copy has gone viral, sparking various reactions from netizens. Some are questioning the relevance of the essay in UPSC CSE.

The essay, which begins with a reference to Oppenheimer's idea of the Manhattan Project, discusses the balance between logic and emotion--"A mind all logic is like a knife all blade, it makes the hand bleed that uses it."

However, it has not been confirmed if this essay was written by Aditya Srivastava. It was shared by a UPSC preparation handle on X.

Netizens are giving the viral essay a mixed response. Some like the reference, while some are unhappy with the curation: 

"Not at all impressed," a user commented.

"Salute to perfection," another user posted on X.

"Kids, the only thing matters is a good handwriting," another comment reads.

"It's a bizarre topic and equally bizarre response. Most unexpected.," another user posted on X.

UPSC 2023 topper Aditya Srivastava's mock essay copy goes viral, netizens react

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'Verbose, pointless': UPSC topper Aditya Srivastava's mock essay goes viral, but netizens are not impressed

Aditya srivastava, an alumnus of iit-kanpur, secured the first rank in the upsc civil services examination..

  • Updated Apr 18, 2024, 1:45 PM IST

essay model answer upsc

The essay starts by mentioning Oppenheimer's concept of the Manhattan Project and explores the interplay between logic and emotion.

IAS Topper Aditya Srivastava CSE AIR-1 Essay Mock Test Copy 👇 A Thread 🧵 pic.twitter.com/Y2SjL2Igff — UPSC NOTES (@UPSC_Notes) April 17, 2024

Despite the high expectations surrounding any content associated with the top-ranking civil servant aspirants, the reaction from netizens has been surprisingly mixed and unenthusiastic. Srivastava's essay failed to impress many of them.

The essay thread garnered substantial attention, accumulating 1.5 million views and sparking considerable engagement with over 7,000 likes and 2,000 shares. Yet, the consensus among viewers does not seem overwhelmingly positive.

Commenting on the thread one of the users wrote, "This is so worthless. Dumping Oppenheimer story in basic English - verbose & pointless."

This is so worthless. Dumping Oppenheimer story in basic english - verbose & pointless. Our priorities seem skewed when we test outdated skills in exams instead of nurturing critical thinkers and innovators. We urgently need to reassess this exam and the candidates. — Ishwar Singh (@IshwarBagga) April 18, 2024

Another user replied, "Fell asleep after reading 2 sentences, can imagine the quality of people who grade these troopers sorry toppers."

Fell Asleep after reading 2 sentences, can imagine the quality of people who grade these troopers sorry toppers — Munda Chan Varga (@munda53870363) April 18, 2024

Have a look at the other reactions here-

If he is AIR 1, then Lord Rama save this country. — Saurabh Srivastava 🇵🇸 (@sasri108) April 18, 2024
The answer seems exactly like ChatGPT answer when it hallucinates. — Sadhu baba (@dosnt_shar_food) April 17, 2024

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UPSC CSE Mains Model Questions: Essay [50-Day HVAW Compilation]

Last updated on September 14, 2023 by Alex Andrews George

UPSC CSE Mains Model Questions Essay paper

Table of Contents

IAS Mains Model Questions: Essay Paper

Aspirants who write mains are advised to go through these questions, answers written by other candidates, and the respective feedback from ClearIAS Team.

Model Questions for UPSC CSE Main Exam

  • Challenges in reaping India’s demographic dividend and solutions.
  • Is crony capitalism the root cause of increasing Non Performing Assets in India?
  • Increasing Juvenile Crimes.
  • If everybody is thinking alike, then somebody is not thinking.
  • Is Gandhian Philosophy relevant today?
  • Role of women in driving India’s growth forward.
  • Indian bureaucracy and globalization.
  • Indian youth and scientific thinking.
  • Evolution of Indian societal structure from historical times.
  • Lessons in good citizenship inculcated at young age will go a long way in creating a better society.
  • Contemporary India: Judicial Activism, Civil Society Movements and Media Activism.
  • Is cricket the hindering the growth of other Indian sports and games?
  • Role of engineers in driving India’s growth forward.
  • Without deviation from the norm, progress is not possible.
  • Corporatization of media and media responsibility.
  • Socialism and contemporary India.
  • Indian Society and Sex Education.
  • Is reservation counter-productive?
  • Future of human race.
  • Commodification of women.
  • Digital divide.
  • Should India invest in sports and games?
  • India should claim its rightful place in tourism.
  • Role models for youth in India.
  • Global warming : Who loses and who wins?
  • Are we giving too much importance to cricket and Bollywood?
  • Are women safe in India?
  • Sexism in workplace.
  • Environment vs development debate.
  • Water conservation.
  • India as a soft power.
  • Scientific progress in Ancient and Medieval India.
  • The meaning of life.
  • Quality of higher education in India.
  • Should politicians’ private lives be public?
  • Alcoholism in India.
  • Entertainment Industry in India.
  • 100 years of Indian Cinema.
  • Animal rights.
  • Democracy passes into despotism.
  • Social media and privacy.
  • The great aim of education is not knowledge but action.
  • Is India truly democratic?
  • The mobile revolution is just beginning
  • Dualism in Indian economy and society.
  • Is it time to abolish Rajyasabha to improve governance?.
  • India needs urgent legal system reforms.
  • Education is important for everyone, but it is especially significant for girls and women.
  • Did social media made us more open?
  • India – A nation in making.

Practice Full Length UPSC Mains Mock Tests – Essay

Please go through  Clear IAS Mains Full Length Free Mock Test Series – Essay Paper  and see how ClearIAS mock questions helped our online students in the actual UPSC main exam .

How to download the compilation of mock questions?

Every note published in ClearIAS.com has a print-pdf button attached at the post-bottom and at the left-margin. Alternatively, you can use the website ‘printfriendly.com’ to enter the URL of any posts in ClearIAS.com to download a clean, reader-friendly PDF.

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About Alex Andrews George

Alex Andrews George is a mentor, author, and social entrepreneur. Alex is the founder of ClearIAS and one of the expert Civil Service Exam Trainers in India.

He is the author of many best-seller books like 'Important Judgments that transformed India' and 'Important Acts that transformed India'.

A trusted mentor and pioneer in online training , Alex's guidance, strategies, study-materials, and mock-exams have helped many aspirants to become IAS, IPS, and IFS officers.

Reader Interactions

essay model answer upsc

November 23, 2016 at 1:25 pm

This may be helpful.

essay model answer upsc

November 23, 2016 at 1:54 pm

NO Download option pls provide the solutions

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November 23, 2016 at 2:30 pm

@ Every note published in ClearIAS.com has a print-pdf button attached at the post-bottom and at the left-margin. Alternatively, you can use the website ‘printfriendly.com’ to enter the URL of any posts in ClearIAS.com to download a clean, reader-friendly PDF.

Answers to the questions are available in the links corresponding to the respective day’s questions.

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April 15, 2018 at 9:03 pm

Good information.

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  • UPSC 2023 Topper's Mock Essay Goes Viral, Sparking Debate on Exam Relevance

UPSC 2023 Topper's Mock Essay Goes Viral, Sparking Debate on Exam Relevance

UPSC 2023 Topper's Mock Essay Goes Viral, Sparking Debate on Exam Relevance

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[MISSION 2024] Insights SECURE : Daily UPSC Mains Answer Writing Practice: 24 April 2024

Click on EACH question to post/upload you answers.

How to Follow Secure Initiative?

How to self-evaluate your answer , mission – 2023: yearlong timetable, join ipm 4.0 to get an assured review of 2 secure answers everyday, general studies – 1.

Topic: Salient features of world’s physical geography.

1. The expansion of glacial lakes in the Indian Himalayan river basins has significant implications for both local communities and broader climate change adaptation strategies. Examine. (150 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: The Hindu

Why the question: The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 1. Key Demand of the question: To write about the impact of expansion of glacial lakes. Directive word:   Examine – When asked to ‘Examine’, we must investigate the topic (content words) in detail, inspect it, investigate it and establish the key facts and issues related to the topic in question. While doing so we should explain why these facts and issues are important and their implications. Introduction:  Begin by giving context and statistic related to the above. Body: First, write about the impact of the above – Increased risk of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), Water resource management and Ecological impacts etc. Next, write about the measures that are needed in the mitigate the above – proactive monitoring, water management, and international cooperation to mitigate risks and enhance resilience etc. Conclusion: Conclude by writing a way forward.

General Studies – 2

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

2. As global temperatures rise, permafrost is thawing at an accelerated rate, leading to a variety of environmental, social, and economic consequences. Examine. (250 words)

Reference: Down to Earth

Why the question: Increasing temperatures thawing permafrost, exposing substantial quantities of organic carbon and atmospheric release of greenhouse gases. Key Demand of the question: To write about permafrost, its global distribution and impact of its thawing. Directive word:   Examine – When asked to ‘Examine’, we must investigate the topic (content words) in detail, inspect it, investigate it and establish the key facts and issues related to the topic in question. While doing so we should explain why these facts and issues are important and their implications. Structure of the answer: Introduction:  Begin by defining permafrost. Body: First, with a map, show the major areas of the world that are covered with permafrost. Next, write about the thawing of permafrost under the impact of global warming. Next, write about the impact of thawing of permafrost – Thawing permafrost can raise water levels in Earth’s oceans and increase erosion, resurrecting trapped pathogens, giving rise to potential public health threats etc. Conclusion: Conclude by writing a way forward to handle the above challenges.
Topic: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.

3. Expanding eligibility for health insurance is crucial for ensuring broader access to healthcare services. However, affordability is equally important to ensure that individuals can actually utilize their insurance coverage. Discuss. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Tough

Why the question: The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI), the apex regulator of insurance products, has asked companies to enable a wide demographic of citizens to benefit from health insurance. Key Demand of the question: To write about the importance of making insurance more eligible and affordable. Directive word:   Discuss – This is an all-encompassing directive – you must debate on paper by going through the details of the issues concerned by examining each one of them. You must give reasons for both for and against arguments. Structure of the answer: Introduction:  Begin by mentioning statistic related to insurance penetration in the country. Body: First, write about the various bottlenecks in insurance penetration in the country. Suggest reforms to ensure the that insurance is accessible and affordable by all. Conclusion: Conclude with a way forward.

General Studies – 3

Topic: Security challenges and their management in border areas – linkages of organized crime with terrorism.

4. Against the backdrop of a rising cross-border terrorism over the past two decades, discuss the ways in which India can improve its security to prevent terror attacks from its neighbouring countries. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Easy

Reference: Insights on India

Why the question: The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 3 and mentioned as part of Mission-2024 Secure timetable. Key Demand of the question: To write about the characteristics of grassland ecosystems and the impact of various threats to it. Directive word:  Discuss – This is an all-encompassing directive – you must debate on paper by going through the details of the issues concerned by examining each one of them. You must give reasons for both for and against arguments. Structure of the answer: Introduction:  Begin by giving context. Body: First, write about how cross-border terrorism often originates from or is supported by neighboring countries, the historical and geopolitical factors that may hinder security cooperation with certain neighbours. Discuss issues related to trust deficit, conflicting interests, and sovereignty concerns that pose challenges to regional security collaboration. Next, write about the steps that are needed to prevent the same. Conclusion: Conclude by writing a way forward.
Topic: Role of external state and non-state actors in creating challenges to internal security.

5. The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act of 1958 (AFSPA) is a controversial law that has been a subject of criticism and debate, with arguments both in favor of its retention and for its repeal. Analyse. (250 words)

Why the question: The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 3 and mentioned as part of Mission-2024 Secure timetable. Key Demand of the question: To comment as to whether or not AFSPA be repealed. Directive word:  Analyse – When asked to analyse, you must examine methodically the structure or nature of the topic by separating it into component parts and present them in a summary. Structure of the answer: Introduction:  Begin by writing about aims of AFSPA. Body: First, mention the broad features of AFSPA. Next, giving context of killing of innocent civilians and other instances of its misuse. Mentions pros and cons of AFSPA. Conclusion: Conclude by commenting on the action that India must take with regards to AFSPA.

General Studies – 4

Topic: challenges of corruption.

6. Successfully tackling corruption is a catalyst for positive transformation across various sectors. It creates a virtuous cycle where increased public trust, economic development, and social justice reinforce each other, leading to a more equitable, stable, and prosperous society. Elaborate. (250 words)

Why the question: The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 4. Key Demand of the question:  To write about the importance of fighting corruption. Directive word: Elaborate – Give a detailed account as to how and why it occurred, or what is the context. You must be defining key terms wherever appropriate and substantiate with relevant associated facts. Structure of the answer: Introduction:  Begin by giving importance of having a corruptionless public service delivery. Body: Write about the importance of fighting corruption – creates jobs, achieves gender equality, and secures wider access to essential services such as healthcare and education etc. Substantiate with examples. Conclusion: Conclude by mentioning various
Topic: Work culture.

7. Leadership should exemplify ethical behaviour and demonstrate a commitment to integrity. Discuss. (150 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate.

Why the question: The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 4 and part of Mission-2024 Secure. Key Demand of the question: To write about components of ethical workplace and ways to build it. Structure of the answer: Introduction: Start by describing the ethical work culture. Body: Write about the major components of ethical work culture – priority to employee rights, fair procedures, and equity in pay and promotion, and that promotes tolerance, compassion, loyalty and honesty in the treatment of customers and employees. Next, write about ways to build ethical workplace culture and environment. Conclusion: Conclude by summarising.

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  22. UPSC 2023 topper Aditya Srivastava's mock essay copy goes viral ...

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  23. 'Verbose, pointless': UPSC topper Aditya Srivastava's mock essay goes

    A post shared by a popular social media account, 'UPSC NOTES,' unveiled a mock test essay by Srivastava that has since gone viral. However, it has not been confirmed whether Srivastava wrote this ...

  24. UPSC CSE Mains Model Questions: Essay [50-Day HVAW Compilation]

    Last updated on September 14, 2023 by Alex Andrews George. This is a compilation of the model essays questions we provided as part of our 50-day Mains High Value Answer Writing (HVAW) Test Series in 2014. We will also be releasing the compilation of the essay model questions in the ClearIAS 30-day Mains Answer Writing Program (AWP) 2016 soon.

  25. UPSC 2023 Topper's Mock Essay Goes Viral, Sparking Debate on Exam

    CBSE Date Sheet 2024 Live Updates: Class 10th and 12th Schedule Soon @ cbse.gov.in; CAT Answer Key 2023: IIM CAT Response Sheet Out at iimcat.ac.in, Download Link Here

  26. Insights Ias

    Topic: Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc., geographical features and their location-changes in critical geographical features (including water-bodies and ice-caps) and in flora and fauna and the effects of such changes. 2. As global temperatures rise, permafrost is thawing at an accelerated rate, leading to a variety of environmental ...