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ESSAY QUESTION PAPER : UPSC Civil Services IAS Exam MAINS 2023

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ESSAY QUESTION  PAPER – UPSC Civil Services  IAS Mains – 2023

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• 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 school.

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UPSC Mains: Syllabus, Question Papers, Mock Tests, Art of Answer Writing

• Mains GS Papers Topicwise from 2013-2023
• Mrunal’s Model Answers for UPSC GSM-2020 Paper

Mains GS Paper1: History, Social Science, Geography

Mains gs paper2: polity, governance,international relation, mains gs paper3: economy, environment, sci-tech, internal security, mains gs paper4: ethics, integrity, attitude, mains gs and essay papers topicwise from 2013-2022.

• [Download] UPSC Mains Essay Paper, Including Topicwise last 30 YEARS Essay Question Papers (1993-2023) with booklist, strategy!
• [Download] Topicwise UPSC Mains General Studies Paper-1 (GSM1): History, Geography, Social Science
• [Download] Topicwise UPSC Mains General Studies Paper-2 (GSM2): Polity, Welfare, Governance, International Relations (IR) since new Syllabus of 2013-2023
• [Download] Topicwise UPSC Mains General Studies Paper-3 (GSM3): Economy, Agriculture, Disaster Management, EIA, Science, Internal Security since new Syllabus of (2013-2023)
• [Download] UPSC Mains General Studies Paper-4 (GSM4) Topicwise Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude – All Papers (2013-2023)
• Indian culture covers the salient features of Literature, Art Forms, and Architecture from ancient to modern times.
• Modern Indian history include the significant events, personalities, issues during the middle of the eighteenth century until the present
• Various stages and important contributors and contributions from different parts of the country in ‘The Freedom Struggle’
• Post-independence consolidation and reorganization within the country
• History of the world includes events, forms and effect on the society from 18th century like world wars, industrial revolution, colonization, redrawal of national boundaries, decolonization, political philosophies like communism, capitalism, socialism etc
• Salient aspects of Diversity of India and Indian Society
• Role of women and women’s organization, population and associated issues, poverty and developmental issues, urbanization, their problems and remedies
• Social empowerment, communalism, regionalism & secularism
• Distribution of key natural resources across the world including South Asia and the Indian sub-continent; factors responsible for the location of primary, secondary, and tertiary sector industries in various parts of the world including India
• Effects of globalization on Indian society
• Salient features of world’s physical geography
• 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
• [Download] ALL UPSC GSM1 Question Papers (Topicwise) from 2013-22 with Analysis & Future Strategy
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM1: Urban poor women living conditions more deplorable than rural counterparts
• [Lecture] UPSC Mains Answer Writing with Self-Assessment-Benchmarks: Democractic Elements in Religious Reforms (250 Words)
• [Lecture] UPSC Mains Answer Writing with Self-Assessment-Benchmarks: Quit India Movement- Planned or Spontaneous? (250 Words)
• [Lecture] UPSC Mains Answer Writing with Self-Assessment-Benchmarks: Gandhi’s Secular Image vs. Khilafat Support
• [Lecture] UPSC Mains Answer Writing with Self-Assessment-Benchmarks: British Imperialism Exigencies
• [Lecture] UPSC Mains Answer Writing with Self-Assessment-Benchmarks: Hindu elements in Mughal Architecture
• [Lecture] UPSC Mains Answer Writing with Self-Assessment-Benchmarks: Chola Bronze Sculptures
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM1-2017/Q20: Geography / Urbanization- New Problems of IT-BPO Cities (250 words, 15 marks)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM1-2017/Q19: How religiosity transformed into communalism in Independent India? (250 words)
• [Full Length Mock] UPSC Mains General Studies Paper-1 with FREE Question-cum-Answerbooklet (QCA)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM1-2017/Q18: Women Issues & Debates in the 19th Century India (250 words, 15 marks)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM1-2017/Q17: Geography- Monsoon climate that feeds over 50% population of World
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM1-2017/Q16: Geography- Converting floods into irrigation & inland navigation sources?
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM1-2017/Q15: Implications of Market-based Petro Refineries on developing country?
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM1-2017/Q14: Oceanic Salinity variations & its multi-dimensional effects (250 words, 15 marks) Physical Geography
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM1-2017/Q13: New Objectives added to vision of Free India since 1920s
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM1-2017/Q12: How traditional artisanal industry’s decline crippled rural economy of colonial India
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM1-2017/Q11: Indian society’s spirit of tolerance & love in past & present times
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM1-2017/Q10: Major legal initiatives by the State since Independence on discrimination against Scheduled Tribes (STs)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM1-2017/Q9: Whether regions form cultural units or States? (10 Marks)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM1-2017/Q8: Geography: How does Cryosphere affect Global Climate?
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM1-2017/Q7: Benefits of Pulse Cultivation, Why UN declared International Year of Pulses?
• [Model Answer] GSM1-2017/Q5: Physical Geography: NASA’s Juno Mission: Knowing Earth’s Origin from Jupiter’s Data?
• [Model Answer] GSM1-2017/Q4: World History- Decolonization problems in Malay Peninsula
• [Model Answer] GSM1-2017/Q3: Freedom Struggle: Why Moderates failed to convince masses by end of 19th Century?
• [Model Answer] GSM1-2017/Q2: Spectre of fragmented polity in mid-eighteenth century India (150 words, 10 Marks)
• [Model Answer] GSM1-2017/Q1: Gupta coins & numismatic art was better than its successive dynasties. Justify (150 Words, 10 Marks)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM1-2017/Q6: Carbon Imperialism vs Economic Cost of Renewable Energy vs Social Cost of Thermal Powerplants: Model Answers in Hindi & English
• [Full Length Mock] UPSC Mains GS1, Set#1: History & Culture, Society & Geography; with sources for Model Answerkey
• [AW/GSM1] Art & Culture: Declining Male Classical Dancers & Sanskrit Literature in Modern India- with Model Answers
• [AW/GSM1] History: Thugs of Hindustan, Criminal Tribes Act 1871, Rise of Totalitarianism in Europe- with Model Answers
• [AW/GSM1] Society: Post-Truth & Rise of Intolerance in India vs (GSM2): Constitution: Liberty of Thought & Expression? With Model Answers
• [AW/GSM1] Post-Independence: LTTE vs IPKF & Globalization vs FLPR with Model Answers
• Lecture/Rao forGSM1: Narasimha Rao’s Diplomacy & Mains Answer writing Basics
• Lecture/GSM1: Right wing Vigilantism in India vs Alt-Right in Trump’s USA: Compare Contrast
• Lecture/GSM1&4: DeenDayal- Integral humanism (एकात्म मानवदर्शन), One India (एक भारत), Dharma Rajya
• Lecture/GSM1: Leather Industry- Location Factors, Opportunities, Challenges, Cow Vigilantism
• Lecture/GSM1- Urban Floods: Problem, Remedies, Chennai Floods & Disaster Mitigation
• FREE Complete Lecture Series on World History by Pratik Nayak
• Indian Constitution- historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure
• Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure, devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein
• Comparison of the Indian constitutional scheme with that of other countries
• Separation of powers between various organs dispute redressal mechanisms and institutions
• Parliament and State Legislatures – structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these
• Appointment to various Constitutional posts, powers, functions and responsibilities of various Constitutional Bodies
• Structure, organization and functioning of the Executive and the Judiciary Ministries and Departments of the Government; pressure groups and formal/informal associations and their role in the Polity
• Salient features of the Representation of People’s Act
• Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation
• Statutory, regulatory and various quasi-judicial bodies
• Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes; mechanisms, laws, institutions and Bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections
• Health, Education, Human Resources
• Development processes and the development industry the role of NGOs, SHGs, various groups and associations, donors, charities, institutional and other stakeholders
• Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to
• Important aspects of governance, transparency and accountability, e-governance- applications, models, successes, limitations, and potential; citizens charters, transparency & accountability and institutional and other measures
• Issues relating to poverty and hunger
• Role of civil services in a democracy
• Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests
• India and its neighborhood- relations
• Important International institutions, agencies and fora, their structure, mandate
• Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora
• [Download] ALL UPSC GSM2 Question Papers (Topicwise) from 2013-22 with Analysis & Future Strategy
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM2: Critically Examine the Need to abolish No-Detention Policy under Right to Education Act (150 words)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM2: Explain the signifiance of ‘Affordable Housing’ in Human & Economic Development of India (150 words)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM2: Why did Govt. propose Triple Talaq Bill / Ordinance? List Salient Features (150 words)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM2: Diplomacy- Modi’s De-hyphenation Policy vs Nehru’s NAM Policy (250 words, 15 Marks)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM2: Son Meta-Preference impact on India’s Gender Inequality Index (GII) at UNDP (250 words)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM2: Ayushman Bharat-NHPM: Features, Fiscal & Administrative challenges (250 words, 15 marks)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM2: 15th Finance Commission’s Terms of Reference (TOR)- Why are States apprehensive? (250 words)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM2: Law Commission Report#276: Legalizing Sports-Betting in India. Discuss your Stand (250 words)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM2: National Register of Citizens (NRC) & Assam Accord: Features & Interconnections (250 words)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM2: Article 239AA & Lieutenant Governor’s Absolutism Post-SC Judgement
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM2: OBC Sub-categorization: Constitutional and Legal dimensions (150 words, 10 marks)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM2: American Senate is more powerful than Indian Rajya Sabha. Analyse
• [Full Length Mock] UPSC Mains GS2: Set#2- US Senate vs Rajya Sabha, Modi’s De-hyphenated Policy vs Nehru’s NAM
• [Full Length Mock] UPSC Mains GS2: Set#1 with model Answerkey: SC guidelines on Section 498-A
• [Economy/GSM2] Trade in Services Agreement (TiSA) vs WTO: MFN-Forward, Standstill & Ratchet, India’s stand, with Model Answers in Hindi & English
• [AW/GSM2] Art of Answer writing: Uniform Civil Code (UCC)- 3 Mock Questions & Model Answers in Hindi & English
• [AW/GSM2] Art of Answer writing: Regulatory Bodies autonomy & independence: Model Answers in English & Hindi
• Lecture/GS2: Natural Fiber Textiles vs SDG; Bulk Drugs & API Industry- Govt Policies
• Lecture/GSM2: Polity- Referendum in India? Lessons from BREXIT, Columbia & Scotland
• Lecture/GSM2: Polity- Refugee & Asylum Framework in India? Lessons from EU-Refugee Crisis
• Lecture/GSM2: Polity- Parliamentary Secretary, Office of Profit: Constitutional origins?
• Lecture/GSM2: Polity- Directly Elected Mayor system in ULBs, Private Member’s Bill- merits of
• Lecture/GSM2: Polity- Regulatory Bodies: Algo-Trading vs SEBI, MCI vs NMC?
• Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment.
• Development, Bio diversity, Environment, Security and Disaster Management.
• Government Budgeting.
• Inclusive growth and issues arising from it.
• Major crops cropping patterns in various parts of the country, different types of irrigation and irrigation systems storage, transport and marketing of agricultural produce and issues and related constraints; e-technology in the aid of farmers
• Economics of animal-rearing.
• Food processing and related industries in India- scope and significance, location, upstream and downstream requirements, supply chain management.
• Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies and minimum support prices; Public Distribution System objectives, functioning, limitations, revamping; issues of buffer stocks and food security; Technology missions
• Land reforms in India.
• Effects of liberalization on the economy, changes in industrial policy and their effects on industrial growth.
• Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc.
• Investment models.
• Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life Achievements of Indians in science & technology;
• Indigenization of technology and developing new technology.
• Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment
• Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, robotics, nano-technology, bio-technology and issues relating to intellectual property rights.
• Disaster and disaster management.
• Role of external state and non-state actors in creating challenges to internal security.
• Linkages between development and spread of extremism.
• Challenges to internal security through communication networks, role of media and social networking sites in internal security challenges, basics of cyber security; money-laundering and its prevention
• Various Security forces and agencies and their mandate
• Security challenges and their management in border areas; linkages of organized crime with terrorism
• [Download] ALL UPSC GSM3 Question Papers (Topicwise) from 2013-22 with Analysis & Future Strategy
• Model Answers for UPSC Mains → GSM3-2019/Q12: Disaster Vulnerability types & characterization in हिंदी & English (10m, 150 words)
• Model Answers for UPSC Mains → GSM3-2019/Q11: Hazard Zonation Mapping for Landslide Disaster Preparedness in हिंदी & English (15m, 250 words)
• Model Answers for UPSC Mains → GSM3-2019/Q10: Govt Reforms to make PDS food grain distribution system more effective (15m, 250 words) in हिंदी & English
• Model Answers for UPSC Mains → GSM3-2019/Q9: Govt initiatives for Food Processing Sector in India (15m, 250 words) in हिंदी & English
• [Model Ans in हिंदी & English] UPSC GSM3-2019/Q8: Contributions of Sir M.Visvesvaraya and Dr. M. S. Swaminathan
• [Model Ans in हिंदी & English] UPSC GSM3-2019/Q7:National Watershed Project in increasing agricultural production? (10m, 150 words)
• [Model Ans in हिंदी & English] UPSC GSM3-2019/Q6: Integrated Farming System for sustaining agricultural production? (10m, 150 words)
• [Model Ans in हिंदी & English] UPSC GSM3-2019/Q5: Biotechnology for Farmers Income Improvement? (15m, 250 words)
• [Model Ans in हिंदी & English] UPSC GSM3-2019/Q3: Is Indian Economy in Good shape?
• [Model Ans in हिंदी & English] UPSC GSM3-2019/Q3: Inclusive Growth strategy for Sustainability
• [Model Ans in हिंदी & English] UPSC GSM3-2019/Q2: Public Expenditure Management challenges Post-LPG Reforms
• [Model Ans in हिंदी & English] UPSC GSM3-2019/Q1: Comment on Revenue implications of GST
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM3-2018/Q12: How is Protectionism & Currency Manipulation affecting Indian Economy?
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM3-2018/Q11: How principles of NITI Aayog different from Planning Commission? (15 marks) incl. HINDI ANSWER
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM3-2018/Q10: Internal Security- Govt’s approach to Left Wing Extremism (LWE)? (10m)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM3-2018/Q9: Why India distanced from China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)? (10 marks)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM3-2018/Q8: 100% Organic Farming State’s ecological and economical benefits? (10 marks)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM3-2018/Q7: Ramsar “Wise use” Concept for wetland conservation (150 words, 10 marks)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM3-2018/Q6: How to remove Toxic Solid Waste from Habitable Environment? (10 marks)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM3-2018/Q5: Discuss how Bose-Einstein Statistics revolutionized the field of Physics? (10 marks)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM3-2018/Q4: Food-Processing: How Supermarket supply chain management (SCM) eliminates intermediaries?
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM3-2018/Q3: Agriculture Issues- How MSP protects farmers from Low-Income Trap?
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM3-2018/Q2: Long-term Capital Gains Tax (LCGT) & Dividend Distribution Tax (DDT) in the Union Budget
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM3-2018/Q1: Energy Access initiatives for SDG: Ujjwala, Saubhagya, Gram-Jyoti, Urja Ganga, Uday (150 words)
• [AW/GSM3] Internal Security: Preventing Lone Wolf & Hate Speech on Social Media: Mock Questions with Model Answer Writing
• [GSM3/Disasters] Human Stampede Prevention, Role of Science Tech (GSM3) & Code for Media (GSM4) With Model Answer Writing
• [AW/GSM3] Economy: Give Fiscal stimulus for 6-Quarter GDP dip & GST troubles of MSME/Small Traders? Critically Examine. Model Answer Included
• [Economy] WTO Buenos Aires Summit #EPICFAIL: Model Answers for UPSC Mains GS2 & GS3
• [AW/GSM3] Carbon Imperialism vs Economic Cost of Renewable Energy vs Social Cost of Thermal Powerplants: Model Answers in Hindi & English
• [Summary] Economy#4A: Agriculture Credit & Inputs (Part 1/3) for Descriptive Exams gist of Survey Vol1&2, NITI 3YRs & SDG30
• [Summary] Economy#4A: Agriculture Extension & Research, GM Crops (Part 2/3) for Descriptive Exams gist of Survey Vol1&2, NITI 3YRs & SDG30
• [Summary] Economy#4A: Agriculture Output Selling (3/3): Price Deficiency Payment (PDP), MSP, APMC & Food Management gist of Survey Vol1&2, NITI 3YRs & SDG30
• [AW/GSM3] Tomato Inflation, Organic Farming, Pulses Inflation: Mock Questions & Model Answer Writing for UPSC Civil Services Mains Exam
• [AW/GSM3] Art of Answer writing: Minor Forest Produce (MFP) significance & challenges for Tribal economy: Model Answers in English & Hindi
• [Economy] GSM3: New Metro Rail Policy 2017: Investment Models, PPP vs EPC, DFBOT, VGF with Model Answers in Hindi & English
• Lecture/Rao forGSM3: Rao’s Economic Reforms, Impact of Liberalization & industrial Policy
• Lecture/GSM3- SENDAI Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction & India’s updated NDM Plan 2016
• Lecture/GSM3: Pollution- Kigali Amendment, India- a Rejectionist Power in SDG, Paris, ICAO?
• Lecture/GSM3/Agri: Pulses inflation: Arvind Subramanian report, PPP procurement, higher MSP, DBT?
• Lecture/GSM3/Agri: GM Mustard, DMH-11 Hybrid should we adopt in India? GEAC report? Cartagena Protocol?
• Lecture/GSM3/Budgeting: Why Plan-Non plan merger? Is Revenue-Capital classification sufficient?
• Lecture/GSM3/Budgeting: Why Budget advanced to 1st February? Merits, Rationale, Summary
• Lecture/GSM3/Budgeting: Why change Financial Year of India instead of 1st April-31st March?
• Lecture/GSM3/Economy: GST-Proposed Framework, Benefits, Challenges- Summary
• Lecture/GSM3/Poverty: UBI- Universal Basic Income for Indian Poor: Benefits, Challenges- Summary

This paper includes questions to check the candidate’s’ attitude and approach to issues relating to integrity, probity in public life and his/her problem solving approach to various issues and conflicts faced by him/her while dealing with society. Questions may utilise the case study approach to determine these aspects and covers area:

• Ethics and Human Interface- Essence, determinants and consequences of Ethics in human actions; dimensions of ethics; ethics in private and public relationships
• Human Values- lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders, reformers and administrators; role of family, society and educational institutions in inculcating values
• Attitude- content, structure, function; its influence and relation with thought and behaviour; moral and political attitudes; social influence and persuasion
• Aptitude and foundational values for Civil Service, integrity, impartiality and non-partisanship, objectivity, dedication to public service, empathy, tolerance and compassion towards the weaker-sections
• Emotional intelligence-concepts, and their utilities and application in administration and governance
• Contributions of moral thinkers and philosophers from India and world
• Public/Civil service values and Ethics in Public administration- Status and problems; ethical concerns and dilemmas in government and private institutions; laws, rules, regulations and conscience as sources of ethical guidance; accountability and ethical governance; strengthening of ethical and moral values in governance; ethical issues in international relations and funding; corporate governance
• Probity in Governance- Concept of public service; Philosophical basis of governance and probity; Information; sharing and transparency in government, Right to Information, Codes of Ethics, Codes of Conduct, Citizen’s Charters, Work culture, Quality of service delivery, Utilization of public funds, challenges of corruption
• Case Studies on above issues.
• [Download] ALL UPSC GSM4 Question Papers (Topicwise) from 2013-22 with Analysis & Future Strategy
• [Full Length Mock] UPSC Mains GS4: Set#1 Ethics, Integrity, Aptitude incl. Case Studies on Blue Whale Game, Gender Equality, Artistic Freedom
• [Full Length Mock] UPSC Mains GS4: Set#2- Ethics, Integrity, Aptitude with case study on recruitment, Ostracism, Friendship & More
• [AW/GSM4] Art of Answer writing: Transparency of Rules Act (TORA) vs RTI vs Citizen Charter for Transparency, Accountability & Good Governance
• Lecture/Rao forGS3&4: LPG Legacy= Growth NOT Redistributed? Crisis Mgmt using Kautilya?
• FREE Complete Lecture Series on Ethics by UPSC Topper Kavan Limbasiya (IRS)
• More Case Studies and Articles

Table of Contents

Essay (UPSC Mains) – Previous Year Questions

• 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 school.

Value based / Ethical Issues

• A smile is the chosen vehicle for all ambiguities.
• Just because you have a choice, it does not mean that any of them has to be right.

Philosophical

• The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining.
• You can not step twice in the same river.
• A ship in harbour is safe, but that is not what ship is for.

Miscellaneous / Mixed

• Forests are the best case studies for economic excellence. (Environment / Economics)
• Poets are the unacknowledged legislators of the world ( Literature / Socio-political-economic impacts)
• History is a series of victories won by the scientific man over the romantic man ( History / Values / Philosophy)
• Your perception of me is a reflection of you; my reaction to you is an awareness of me.
• Philosophy of wantlessness is Utopian, while materialism is a chimera.
• The real is rational and the rational is real.
• Hand that rocks the cradle rules the world.

History / Culture

• History repeats itself, first as a tragedy, second as a farce.

Science and Technology

• What is research, but a blind date with knowledge!
• There are better practices to “best practices”. ( Multiple Themes )
• The process of self-discovery has now been technologically outsourced. ( Philosophy / Technology)
• Life is long journey between human being and being humane.
• Mindful manifesto is the catalyst to a tranquil self.
• Ships do not sink because of water around them; ships sink because of water that gets into them.
• Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.
• Culture is what we are, civilization is what we have.

Social Issues

• There can be no social justice without economic prosperity but economic prosperity without social justice is meaningless.
• Patriarchy is the least noticed yet the most significant structure of social inequality.
• Technology as the silent factor in international relations ( Technology / International Relation ).
• Values are not what humanity is, but what humanity ought to be.
• Courage to accept and dedication to improve are two keys to success.
• Wisdom finds truth.
• South Asian societies are woven not around the state, but around their plural cultures and plural identities.
• Best for an individual is not necessarily best for the society.
• Neglect of primary health care and education in India are reasons for its backwardness.

Science & Technology

• Rise of Artificial Intelligence: the threat of jobless future or better job opportunities through reskilling and upskilling.
• Biased media is a real threat to Indian democracy.
• A good life is one inspired by love and guided by knowledge.
• A people that value its privileges above its principles lose both.
• “The past’ is a permanent dimension of human consciousness and values.
• Customary morality cannot be a guide to modern life.
• Reality does not conform to the ideal, but confirms it.
• Poverty anywhere is a threat to prosperity everywhere.

Environment

• Alternative technologies for a climate change resilient India.

IR & Security

• Management of Indian border disputes – a complex task.
• Joy is the simplest form of gratitude.
• Fulfilment of ‘new woman’ in India is a myth.
• Social media is inherently a selfish medium Domain.
• Has the Non- Alignment Movement (NAM) lost its relevance in a multi-polar world Domain.
• Farming has lost the ability to be a source of subsistence for majority of farmers in India Domain. ( Agriculture )
• Impact of the new economic measures on fiscal ties between the union and states in India Domain.
• Destiny of a nation is shaped in its classrooms.

Polity & Governance

• We may brave human laws but cannot resist natural laws Domain.
• Need brings greed, if greed increases it spoils breed.
• If development is not engendered, it is endangered.
• Cyberspace and internet: Blessing or curse to the human civilization in the long run Domain.
• Near jobless growth in India: An anomaly or an outcome of economic reforms.
• Water disputes between states in federal India Domain.
• Cooperative federalism: Myth or reality India.
• Digital economy: A leveller or a source of economic inequality. ( Technology / Economy)
• Innovation is the key determinant of economic growth and social welfare Domain. ( Technology / Economy / Social Sector)
• Character of an institution is reflected in its leader.
• Lending hands to someone is better than giving a dole.
• Quick but steady wins the race.
• Technology cannot replace manpower.
• Can capitalism bring inclusive growth?
• Education without values, as useful as it is, seems rather to make a man more clever devil. ( Education / Ethics)
• Crisis faced in India – moral or economic. ( Morality / Economics)
• With greater power comes greater responsibility.
• Words are sharper than the two-edged sword.
• Is sting operation an invasion on privacy?
• Was it the policy paralysis or the paralysis of implementation which slowed the growth of our country?
• Tourism: Can this be the next big thing for India?
• Is the growing level of competition good for the youth?
• Are the standardized tests, good measure of academic ability or progress?
• Dreams which should not let India sleep. ( Multiple themes )
• Fifty Gold’s in Olympics: Can this be a reality for India? ( Sports / Governance )
• Be the change you want to see in others – Gandhiji
• Science and technology is the panacea for the growth and security of the nation.
• GDP (Gross Domestic Product) along with GDH (Gross Domestic Happiness) would be the right indices for judging the well-being of a country.
• Is the Colonial mentality hindering India’s Success? ( History / Culture / Growth & Development / Ethics )

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UPSC Mains Question Paper 2023

By vajiram & ravi.

Model Answers GS Paper I PDF

Model Answers GS Paper II PDF

Model Answers GS Paper III PDF

Model Answers GS Paper IV PDF

The UPSC Mains Question Paper 2023 will help you understand the exam pattern being followed by UPSC in this year. The exam dates for the UPSC CSE Mains are 15th, 16th, 17th, 23rd and 24th September 2023. The examination was conducted in two shifts: the first shift is from 9.00 a.m. - 12.00 p.m., and the second shift is from 2.00 p.m. -5.00 p.m . The pattern of the UPSC Mains 2023 question paper consists of a comprehensive assessment designed to evaluate the knowledge, analytical abilities, and writing skills of aspirants for various civil services positions in India. There are 9 papers in total, and all are descriptive in nature.

Analysing the UPSC Mains 2023 paper will help you analyse the pattern of questions and fill in the gaps in your preparation for UPSC 2024 . Therefore, this article will focus on providing UPSC Mains Question Papers 2023 for all 9 papers that are taking place from 15th to 24th September 2023.

UPSC Mains 2023 Question Paper PDF

The UPSC Mains Question Paper consists of a set of nine papers, out of which two are qualifying in nature, namely the English Language Paper and an Indian Language Paper (selected by the candidate). The remaining seven papers are counted for merit, covering a wide spectrum of subjects, including General Studies, Essay, and optional subjects selected by the candidates. These papers are designed to evaluate a candidate's in-depth understanding of various subjects, critical thinking ability, analytical skills, and ability to articulate thoughts clearly.

Here, you can download the UPSC Mains Question Paper 2023 PDF of GS Paper- I, II, III and IV consisting of the General Studies subjects part of the UPSC Syllabus . Each Paper carries 250 Marks.

• General Studies I (Indian Heritage and Culture, History and Geography of the World and Society)
• General Studies II (Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, and International Relations)
• General Studies III (Technology, Economic Development, Biodiversity, Environment, Security and Disaster Management)
• General Studies IV (Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude)

You can download the UPSC Mains Question Paper 2023 of General Studies - I, II, III, and IV from the given link below:

• GS Paper I Mains Question Paper 2023
• GS Paper II Mains Question Paper 2023
• GS Paper III Mains Question Paper 2023
• GS Paper IV Mains Question Paper 2023

Model Answers of UPSC Mains 2023 General Studies Questions

Those who have taken the UPSC Mains 2023 exam from 15th to 24th September or those who are planning to appear next year can download the model answers of UPSC Mains question papers of GS I, II, III, and IV from the following links. These answers will help you identify the structure and important points that could be included in the answers.

GS Paper 1:

• Question 1: Explain the role of Geographical Factors towards the development of Ancient India .
• Question 2:  What was the difference between Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore in their approach towards education and nationalism?
• Question 3:  Bring about the Socio-Economic Effects of the Introduction of Railways in Different Countries of the World.
• Question 4:  Discuss the Consequences of Climate Change on the Food Security in Tropical Countries.
• Question 5:  Why is the world today confronted with a crisis of availability of and access to freshwater resources?
• Question 6: How are the fjords formed? Why do they constitute some of the most picturesque areas of the world?
• Question 8:  Do you think marriage as a sacrament is losing its value in modern India?
• Question 9:  Explain why suicide among young women is increasing in Indian society.

GS Paper 2:

• Question 1:  "Constitutionally guaranteed judicial independence is a prerequisite of democracy”. Comment.
• Question 2:  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.
• Question 3:  “The states in India seem reluctant to empower urban local bodies both functionally as well as financially.” Comment.
• Question 4:  Compare and Contrast the British and Indian approaches to Parliamentary Sovereignty.
• Question 5:  Discuss the role of Presiding Officers of state legislatures in maintaining order and impartiality in conducting legislative work and in facilitating best democratic practices.

GS Paper 3:

• Question 1:  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.
• Question 2:  What is the status of digitalization in the Indian economy? Examine the problems faced in this regard and suggest improvements.
• Question 3:  How does e-Technology help farmers in production and marketing of agricultural produce? Explain it.
• Question 4:  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.
• Question 5:  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?
• Question 6:  Discuss several ways in which microorganisms can help in meeting the current fuel shortage.

GS Paper 4:

• 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?

UPSC Mains Essay Paper 2023

The UPSC Mains Essay paper 2023 consists of two sections, Section A and Section B. Each section has four essay topics. Aspirants must choose one topic from each section for a total of two essays. Each essay must be between 1,000 and 1,200 words long and is worth 125 marks. The Essay paper is not just for qualifying purposes but also counts towards the final merit ranking. Candidates are expected to stay on topic, organise their thoughts logically, and write concisely.

The UPSC Mains Essay Paper 2023  can be downloaded here.

UPSC CSE Mains 2023 Essay Question Paper PDF

UPSC Mains Question Paper 2023 Language Papers

The UPSC Mains exam has nine papers, of which Paper A is the mandatory Indian Language Paper. Candidates must select an Indian language from a list given by the UPSC in the official notification.

Paper B is the required English Language Paper. It is a qualifying paper, meaning that candidates must score at least 25% marks in order to be considered for the final merit list.

The UPSC Mains question papers for Indian language and English language can be downloaded from the following links:

• Paper A: Indian Language Mains Question Paper 2023 (Hindi)
• Paper B: English Language Question Paper 2023

UPSC Mains Optional Question Papers

The UPSC Mains Exam has a list of 48 optional subjects from which aspirants must choose one. Each optional subject is divided into two papers, each of which carries 250 marks. The choice of an optional subject is an important factor in determining the candidate's rank in the final merit list, so it should be made carefully. The UPSC Mains 2023 question paper of optional subjects can be downloaded from the following links:

Pattern of UPSC Mains 2023 Paper

To know about the exam pattern and the release dates of UPSC Mains 2023 question papers, refer to the following table:

Is UPSC Mains Question Paper 2023 released?

The UPSC Mains Question Paper 2023 has not been released on the Official UPSC Website yet. However, you can download the Mains Question Paper 2023 from our given page after the paper has been successfully concluded on the given day.

How many papers are there in UPSC Mains?

There are a total of 9 papers for UPSC Mains 2023. Each paper is descriptive in nature.

To request a counselling call, please fill out this form:

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UPSC Essentials | Mains answer practice — GS 1 Questions on ocean currents and geological time scale (Week 48)

Are you preparing for upsc cse 2024 here are questions from gs paper 1 for this week with essential points as the fodder for your answers. do not miss points to ponder and answer in the comment box below. try them out.

UPSC Essentials  brings to you its initiative for the practice of  Mains answer writing . It covers essential topics of static and dynamic parts of the UPSC Civil Services syllabus covered under various GS papers. This answer-writing practice is designed to help you as a value addition to your UPSC CSE Mains. Attempt today’s answer writing on questions related to topics of  GS-1  to check your progress.

🚨 The Indian Express UPSC Essentials brings to you the  April  edition of its monthly magazine.  Click Here   to read . Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at [email protected]🚨

What are ocean currents? Discuss the ways it influences human behaviour.

What is the geological time scale (GTS)? Describe the historical evolution of the geological time scale.

General points on the structure of the answers

Introduction

— The introduction of the answer is essential and should be restricted to 3-5 lines. Remember, a one-liner is not a standard introduction.

— It may consist of basic information by giving some definitions from the trusted source and authentic facts.

You may incorporate some of the following points in the body of your answer:

— It is the central part of the answer and one should understand the demand of the question to provide rich content.

— The answer must be preferably written as a mix of points and short paragraphs rather than using long paragraphs or just points.

— Using facts from authentic government sources makes your answer more comprehensive. Analysis is important based on the demand of the question, but do not over analyse.

— Underlining keywords gives you an edge over other candidates and enhances presentation of the answer.

— Using flowcharts/tree-diagram in the answers saves much time and boosts your score. However, it should be used logically and only where it is required.

Way forward/ conclusion

— The ending of the answer should be on a positive note and it should have a forward-looking approach. However, if you feel that an important problem must be highlighted, you may add it in your conclusion. Try not to repeat any point from body or introduction.

— You may use the findings of reports or surveys conducted at national and international levels, quotes etc. in your answers.

Self Evaluation

— It is the most important part of our Mains answer writing practice.  UPSC Essentials  will provide some guiding points or ideas as a thought process that will help you to evaluate your answers.

THOUGHT PROCESS

You may enrich your answers by some of the following points.

QUESTION 1: What are ocean currents? Discuss the ways it influences human behaviour.

Introduction:

— Oceanic currents refer to the movement of water from one location to another.

— Currents are often measured in meters per second or knots (1 knot = 1.85 km/h or 1.15 miles/h).

— Wind, density changes in the water, and tides all contribute to ocean currents.

Tidal currents

— Tides cause currents in the oceans, which are strongest along the beach and in bays and estuaries along the coastline. These are known as “tidal currents.”

— Tidal currents follow a relatively consistent pattern and can be anticipated for future dates.

— Winds propel currents that flow at or near the ocean’s surface. Winds near coastlines tend to drive localised currents, resulting in phenomena such as coastal upwelling.

Thermohaline circulation

— This is a process characterised by density changes in water caused by temperature (thermo) and salinity (haline) fluctuations in different sections of the ocean. Thermohaline circulation drives currents at both deep and shallow ocean depths, and they move much slower than tidal or surface currents.

— Ocean currents have numerous direct and indirect effects on human activities. Cool waters border the west coasts of continents at tropical and subtropical latitudes.

— Their average temperatures are relatively modest, with limited diurnal and yearly fluctuations. There is fog, although the landscapes are mostly arid.

— Warm waters border the west coastlines of continents at middle and higher latitudes, resulting in a distinct marine climate.

— They have pleasant summers, generally warm winters, and a narrow yearly temperature range. Warm currents move parallel to the continents’ east coasts in tropical and subtropical latitudes.

— This leads to warm and rainy climates. These locations are located on the western borders of subtropical anticyclones.

— Mixing warm and cold currents helps to replenish oxygen and promotes the growth of plankton, the principal food source for fish populations.

— The best fishing grounds in the world are primarily found in these mixing zones.

Conclusion:

— A recent study notes that the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) is losing its stability.

— Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) is a large system of ocean currents. It is the Atlantic branch of the ocean conveyor belt or Thermohaline circulation (THC), and distributes heat and nutrients throughout the world’s ocean basins.

— AMOC carries warm surface waters from the tropics towards the Northern Hemisphere, where it cools and sinks. It then returns to the tropics and then to the South Atlantic as a bottom current.

(Source: Why the Atlantic Ocean current system is slowing down, and its implications by Aswathi Pacha , oceanservice.noaa.gov, ncert.nic.in )

Points to Ponder

What happens if AMOC collapses?

Difference between warm currents and cold currents

Location of important water currents

Related Previous Year Questions

What are the forces that influence ocean currents? Describe their role in fishing industry of the world. (2022)

Explain the factors responsible for the origin of ocean currents? How do they influence regional climates, fishing and navigation? (2015)

QUESTION 2: What is the geological time scale (GTS)? Describe the historical evolution of the geological time scale.

— The Earth’s geological time scale is a crucial tool used by geologists, paleontologists, and other scientists to investigate the planet’s history.

— It is a system that divides the history of the Earth into discrete intervals of time, based on events, such as the evolution and extinction of different living beings and processes that have occurred.

— It is divided into five broad categories, eons, epochs, eras, periods, and ages.

— The root of geological time scale origin goes back to the 1500s and 1600s when the first major breakthrough came in 1669 after Danish scientist Nicolas Steno published the first laws of stratigraphy — the science of interpreting the strata, or layers of rock, in the Earth’s outer surface.

— He laid out two basic geologic principles:

(i) Sedimentary rocks (formed on or near the planet’s surface, in contrast to metamorphic and igneous rocks, which are formed deep within the Earth) are laid down in a horizontal manner.

(ii) Younger rock units were deposited on top of older rock units.

— The second principle essentially means that layers closer to the Earth’s surface must be younger than layers below them which allowed scientists of the time to conclude that each rock layer represented a specific interval of geologic time.

— Italian geologist Giovanni Arduino classified the four main layers of the Earth’s crust as:

(i) Primary (the lowest metamorphic and volcanic layers),

(ii) Secondary (hard sedimentary rocks),

(iii) Tertiary (less hardened sedimentary rocks), and

(iv) Quaternary (the most recently laid rock layer, which is quite soft in comparison to other strata).

Issues related to Arduino’s classification and Steno’s principles

(i) The rocks were locally described by colour, texture, or even smell, comparisons between rock sequences of different areas were often not possible.

(ii) Unlike tree-ring dating, in which each ring is equivalent to one year’s growth, rock layers don’t tell the specific length of geologic time, meaning no one layer can convey how long a certain period lasted on the Earth.

— These discrepancies were ultimately resolved in the 1800s by English surveyor William Smith. He noticed that fossils may be used to describe distinct periods of time because evolution and extinction are natural phenomena. A rock with a trilobite fossil on it, for example, indicates that it is Paleozoic in age (541-252 million years ago), not older or younger because trilobites existed exclusively during the Paleozoic era.

— He came up with the principle of faunal succession, which stated that fossils are found in the same order under the Earth’s surface from place to place. Fossil A was always found below Fossil B, which in turn was always found below Fossil C, and so on.

(Source: Advent of the Anthropocene epoch: Geological time scale, and how it has evolved over time by Alind Chauhan )

Different types of rocks

Soil profile

Difference between categories of GTS

Related Previous Year Question

Describe the characteristics and types of primary rocks. (2022)

Previous Mains Answer Practice

UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 1 (Week 47)

UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 1 (Week 46)

UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 2 (Week 48)

UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 2 (Week 47)

UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 3 (Week 47)

UPSC Essentials: Mains answer practice — GS 3 (Week 48)

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• Topic Wise Essay Questions From UPSC Mains 1994 2018

Last 25 Years Topic-wise Essay Questions From UPSC Mains (1994 - 2018)

Paper I of the UPSC Civil Services mains exam is the Essay. Here, prelims-qualified IAS aspirants have to write two essays out of a few given topics. The paper is for a total of 250 marks and its marks are taken into consideration for the Final Merit List. In this article, we have listed all the essay topics asked in the UPSC mains exam from 1994 to 2018. We have also classified the last 25 years essay questions into topics to make your preparation easier.

Latest – See the UPSC Essay Topics in the IAS Mains 2020 Essay Paper. Download UPSC Mains 2020 Essay Paper from the linked article.

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UPSC Essay Topics

Administration.

• Politics, bureaucracy and business – fatal triangle. (1994)
• 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)
• How should a civil servant conduct himself? (2003)

Democracy/India since independence

• Whither Indian democracy? (1995)
• What we have not learnt during fifty years of independence. (1997)
• Why should we be proud of being Indians? (2000)
• What have we gained from our democratic set-up? (2001)
• How far has democracy in India delivered the goods? (2003)
• National identity and patriotism. (2008)
• 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)
• Is the colonial mentality hindering India’s success? (2013)
• Dreams which should not let India sleep. (2015)
• Management of Indian border disputes – a complex task. (2018)

Economic growth and development

• Resource management in the Indian context. (1999)
• GDP (Gross Domestic Product) along with GDH (Gross Domestic Happiness) would be the right indices for judging the wellbeing of a country. (2013)
• Was it the policy paralysis or the paralysis of implementation which slowed the growth of our country? (2014)
• Crisis faced in India – moral or economic. (2015)
• Near jobless growth in India: An anomaly or an outcome of economic reforms. (2016)
• Digital economy: A leveller or a source of economic inequality. (2016)
• Innovation is the key determinant of economic growth and social welfare. (2016)
• Impact of the new economic measures on fiscal ties between the union and states in India. (2017)

Federalism, Decentralisation

• The language problem in India: its past, present and prospects. (1998)
• Water resources should be under the control of the central government. (2004)
• Evaluation of panchayati raj system in India from the point of view of eradication of power to people. (2007)
• Is autonomy the best answer to combat balkanization? (2007)
• Creation of smaller states and the consequent administrative, economic and developmental implication. (2011)
• Cooperative federalism: Myth or reality. (2016)
• Water disputes between States in federal India. (2016)

Indian Culture & Society

• The Indian society at the crossroads. (1994)
• New cults and godmen: a threat to traditional religion. (1996)
• The composite culture of India. (1998)
• Youth culture today. (1999)
• Modernism and our traditional socio-ethical values. (2000)
• Indian culture today: a myth or a reality? (2000)
• As civilization advances culture declines. (2003)
• From traditional Indian philanthropy to the gates-buffet model-a natural progression or a paradigm shift? (2010)
• Judicial activism. (1997)
• Judicial activism and Indian democracy. (2004)
• Justice must reach the poor. (2005)

Social justice/Poverty

• Reservation, politics and empowerment. (1999)
• Food security for sustainable national development. (2005)
• The focus of health care is increasingly getting skewed towards the ‘haves’ of our society. (2009)
• Farming has lost the ability to be a source of subsistence for the majority of farmers in India. (2017)
• Poverty anywhere is a threat to prosperity everywhere. (2018)

Media & Society

• Misinterpretation and misuse of freedom in India. (1998)
• Mass media and cultural invasion. (1999)
• Responsibility of media in a democracy. (2002)
• How has satellite television brought about cultural change in Indian mindsets? (2007)
• Role of media in good governance. (2008)
• Does Indian cinema shape our popular culture or merely reflect it? (2011)
• Is sting operation an invasion on privacy? (2014)

Environment/Urbanisation

• Urbanization is a blessing in disguise. (1997)
• Protection of ecology and environment is essential for sustained economic development. (2006)
• Urbanisation and its hazards. (2008)
• Should a moratorium be imposed on all fresh mining in tribal areas of the country? (2010)
• We may brave human laws but cannot resist natural laws. (2017)

Economic sectors/MNCs

• Multinational corporations – saviours or saboteurs. (1994)
• Globalization would finish small-scale industries in India. (2006)
• BPO boom in India. (2007)
• Special economic zone: boon or bane? (2008)
• Are our traditional handicrafts doomed to a slow death? (2009)
• 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)
• Tourism: Can this be the next big thing for India? (2014)
• Restructuring of Indian education system. (1995)
• Literacy is growing very fast, but there is no corresponding growth in education. (1996)
• Irrelevance of the classroom. (2001)
• Privatization of higher education in India. (2002)
• Modern technological education and human values. (2002)
• What is real education? (2005)
• “Education for all” campaign in India: myth or reality. (2006)
• Independent thinking should be encouraged right from the childhood. (2007)
• Is an egalitarian society possible by educating the masses? (2008)
• Credit – based higher education system – status, opportunities and challenges. (2011)
• Is the growing level of competition good for the youth? (2014)
• Are the standardized tests good measure of academic ability or progress? (2014)
• Education without values, as useful as it is, seems rather to make a man more clever devil. (2015)
• Destiny of a nation is shaped in its classrooms. (2017)
• The new emerging women power: the ground realities. (1995)
• Greater political power alone will not improve women’s plight. (1997)
• Woman is god’s best creation. (1998)
• Women empowerment: challenges and prospects. (1999)
• Empowerment alone cannot help our women. (2001)
• Whither women’s emancipation? (2004)
• If women ruled the world. (2005)
• The hand that rocks the cradle. (2005)
• Women’s reservation bill would usher in empowerment for women in India. (2006)
• Managing work and home – is the Indian working woman getting a fair deal? (2012)
• If development is not engendered, it is endangered. (2016)
• Fulfillment of ‘new woman’ in India is a myth. (2017)

Quotes-based/Philosophy

• Youth is a blunder, manhood a struggle, old age a regret. (1994)
• Useless life is an early death. (1994)
• Disinterested intellectual curiosity is the lifeblood of civilisation. (1995)
• When money speaks, the truth is silent. (1995)
• Our deeds determine us, as much as we determine our deeds. (1995)
• Truth is lived, not taught. (1996)
• True religion cannot be misused. (1997)
• Search for truth can only be a spiritual problem. (2002)
• The paths of glory lead but to the grave. (2002)
• If youth knew, if age could. (2002)
• There is nothing either good or bad but thinking makes it so. (2003)
• Be the change you want to see in others. (2013)
• With greater power comes greater responsibility. (2014)
• Words are sharper than the two-edged sword. (2014)
• Lending hands to someone is better than giving a dole. (2015)
• “The past’ is a permanent dimension of human consciousness and values. (2018)
• Reality does not conform to the ideal, but confirms it. (2018)
• Attitude makes habit, habit makes character and character makes a man. (2007)
• Discipline means success, anarchy means ruin. (2008)
• Character of an institution is reflected in its leader. (2015)
• Need brings greed, if greed increases it spoils breed. (2016)
• Joy is the simplest form of gratitude. (2017)
• A good life is one inspired by love and guided by knowledge. (2018)
• A people that values its privileges above its principles loses both. (2018)
• Customary morality cannot be a guide to modern life. (2018)

Globalisation

• Modernisation and westernisation are not identical concepts. (1994)
• The world of the twenty-first century. (1998)
• The implications of globalization for India. (2000)
• My vision of an ideal world order. (2001)
• The masks of new imperialism. (2003)
• Globalizations and its impact on Indian culture. (2004)
• ‘Globalization’ vs. ‘nationalism’. (2009)
• Preparedness of our society for India’s global leadership role. (2010)

Science & Tech

• The modern doctor and his patients. (1997)
• Value-based science and education. (1999)
• The march of science and the erosion of human values. (2001)
• Spirituality and scientific temper. (2003)
• The lure of space. (2004)
• Science and Mysticism: Are they compatible? (2012)
• Science and technology is the panacea for the growth and security of the nation. (2013)
• Technology cannot replace manpower. (2015)
• Alternative technologies for a climate change resilient India. (2018)

Internet/IT

• The cyberworld: its charms and challenges. (2000)
• Increasing computerization would lead to the creation of a dehumanized society. (2006)
• Cyberspace and Internet: Blessing or curse to the human civilization in the long run. (2016)
• Social media is inherently a selfish medium. (2017)

International organisations/relations

• Restructuring of UNO reflect present realities. (1996)
• India’s role in promoting ASEAN cooperation. (2004)
• Importance of Indo-US nuclear agreement. (2006)
• Has the Non- Alignment Movement (NAM) lost its relevance in a multipolar world. (2017)
• Terrorism and world peace. (2005)
• Are we a ‘soft’ state? (2009)
• Good fences make good neighbours. (2009)
• In the Indian context, both human intelligence and technical intelligence are crucial in combating terrorism. (2011)

Miscellaneous

• India’s contribution to world wisdom. (1998)
• The pursuit of excellence. (2001)
• Geography may remain the same; history need not. (2010)
• Fifty Golds in Olympics: Can this be a reality for India? (2014)
• Quick but steady wins the race. (2015)

When preparing for IAS Mains, aspirants must focus on UPSC Mains Answer Writing Practise as this will improve one’s speed, efficiency and writing skills. It will automatically help in essay writing as well. 

Also, read:

Frequently Asked Questions on UPSC Essay Topics for UPSC Mains

Q 1. how can i write a good essay in upsc, q 2. does handwriting matter in upsc.

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UPSC CSE Mains 2017 Essay Question Paper

Last updated on September 22, 2023 by ClearIAS Team

Table of Contents

Instructions:  Write  two  essays, choosing  one  from each of the following Section A and B, in about 1000-1200 words. 2*125 = Total 250 Marks.

Section – A

• Farming has lost the ability to be a source of subsistence for majority of farmers in India.
• Impact of the new economic measures on fiscal ties between the union and states in India.
• Destiny of a nation is shaped in its classrooms.
• Has the Non- Alignment Movement (NAM) lost its relevance in a multipolar world?

Section – B

• Joy is the simplest form of gratitude.
• Fulfillment of ‘new woman’ in India is a myth.
• We may brave human laws but cannot resist natural laws.
• Social media is inherently a selfish medium.

Post your analysis and feedback about the question paper in the comment section below. You may compare the essay questions asked in 2017 mains with those of questions of 2016 mains as well.

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Reader Interactions

October 28, 2017 at 4:53 pm

I Find Section A Tough,Still I Would Have Gone With Question No 3.and In Section B With Question No 1.

No More Stress Only Blessings For All. Keep Learning and Keep Growing…..!!!

November 15, 2017 at 3:47 am

Do your best & leave the rest! I also choose the same!

November 15, 2017 at 7:02 am

Wish You The Same.

God Bless You With Love and Peace……!!!

October 28, 2017 at 5:46 pm

Wau. ..I have found all the questions great!!not so hard as I thought 😐😐😐

October 29, 2017 at 1:01 am

Please tell me Gitaji, where you practiced essays writing from? And good luck for next upcoming paper.

July 14, 2019 at 2:37 pm

From where u do the practice of essays please tell me this is the 1st time for me i will give exam

October 28, 2017 at 11:00 pm

wow. so superb subject given in the essays in this paper.

October 29, 2017 at 6:11 pm

you are right , I wrote on number 1 in section 1 and 3 in section 2

October 29, 2017 at 6:42 pm

Alka section A essays are easy but how to deal with section B type essays

November 15, 2017 at 3:52 am

It’s not the context, it’s content! Don’t go for odds my friends, try to do evens also! ‘PUSH THE PACE’

Go with for/against both perspective in an essay! Write the bulletin! Explain the point! START WITH THE PROGRESSING HEIGHTS (BUILDING UR EMOTIONS) & END WITH A POSITIVE CONCLUSION..

Enough 2 score 70% in any essay!

November 15, 2017 at 8:26 am

I found sec B difficult..I would have gone for Ques 4 in sec A and ques 2 in sec B..

June 17, 2018 at 2:34 pm

Sir I am a student B. Com and I want ias please gave me information study materials

July 1, 2018 at 9:59 am

sir , i am b.com second year student and want to prepare for IAS .i don’t know where to start .please tell me

July 8, 2019 at 10:14 pm

Sir I am going to prepare for UPSC but still not sure that this is the only thing I want,as there is no other option left for me after graduation I have to prepare for it but people say do what your heart says,here I want to ask a question that is it really important to have a very clear aim before preparing for it, people like me who are unsure about their aim can’t prepare for UPSC????

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