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GS Paper 4 UPSC 2021 (Mains): Question Paper and Analysis

Last updated on January 9, 2022 by Alex Andrews George

UPSC conducted the  General Studies Paper 4 , as part of the  Civil Services Main Exam 2021  on 09-01-20221.

There were 12 questions split into two sections – A and B.

Case studies were included in Section B. Many questions had sub-sections.

Table of Contents

GS Paper 4 UPSC 2021: Instructions

• Total Marks: 250 marks, Time duration: 3 hours.
• There are 12 questions divided into two sections and printed both in ENGLISH and HINDI.
• All questions are compulsory.
• The number of marks carried by a question/part is printed against it.
• Answers must be written in the medium authorized in the admission certificate which must be stated clearly on the cover of this question-cum-answer (QCA) booklet in the space provided.
• No marks will be given for answers written in the medium other than the authorized one.
• Keep the word limit indicated in the questions in mind.
• Any page or portion of the page left blank, must be struck off clearly.
• The content of the answer is more important than its length.

General Studies Paper 4 Question Paper – UPSC Civil Services Main Exam (Written) 2021

Qn1 . a) Identify five ethical traits on which one can plot the performance of a civil servant. Justify their inclusion in the matrix. (Answer in 150 words)

b) Identify ten essential values that are needed to be an effective public servant. Describe the ways and means to prevent non-ethical behaviour in public servants. (Answer in 150 words)

Qn2. a) Impact of digital technology as a reliable source of input for rational decision making is a debatable issue. Critically evaluate with a suitable example. (Answer in 150 words)

b) Besides domain knowledge, a public official needs innovativeness and creativity of a high order as well, while resolving ethical dilemmas. Discuss with a suitable example. (Answer in 150 words)

Qn3. What does each of the following quotations mean to you?

a) “Every work has got to pass through hundreds of difficulties before succeeding. Those that persevere will see the light, sooner or later” – Swami Vivekananda (Answer in 150 words) b) “We can never obtain peace in the outer world until and unless we obtain peace within ourselves” – Dalai Lama (Answer in 150 words) c) “Life doesn’t make any sense without interdependence. We need each other, and the sooner we learn that it is better for us all” – Erik Erikson (Answer in 150 words)

Qn4. a) Attitude is an important component that goes as input in the development of human beings. How to build a suitable attitude needed for a public servant? (Answer in 150 words)

b) In case of a crisis of conscience does emotional intelligence help to overcome the same without compromising the ethical and moral stand that you are likely to follow? Critically examine. (Answer in 150 words)

Qn5. a) “ Refugees should not be turned back to the country where they would face prosecution or human rights violation.” Examine the statement with reference to the ethical dimension being violated by the nation claiming to be democratic with an open society. (Answer in 150 words)

b) Should impartial and being non-partisan be considered indispensable qualities to make a successful civil servant? Discuss with illustrations. (Answer in 150 words)

Qn6. a) An independent and empowered social audit mechanism is an absolute must in every sphere of public service, including the judiciary, to ensure performance, accountability and ethical conduct. Elaborate. (Answer in 150 words)

b) “Integrity is a value that empowers the human being’’. Justify with suitable illustration. (Answer in 150 words)

Qn7. Sunil is a young civil servant and has a reputation for his competence, integrity, dedication and relentlessness in pursuit of difficult and onerous jobs. Considering his profile, he was picked up by his bosses to handle a very challenging and sensitive assignment. He was posted in a tribal-dominated district notorious for illegal sand mining. Excavating sand from river belts and transporting it through trucks and selling them in the black market was rampant. This illegal sand mining mafia was operating with the support of local functionaries and tribal musclemen who in turn were bribing selected poor tribals and had kept the tribals under fear and intimidation.

Sunil being a sharp and energetic officer immediately grasped the ground realities and the modus operandi followed by the mafia through their devious and dubious mechanism. On making inquiries, he gathered that some of their own office employees are in hand and glove with them and have developed close unholy nexus. Sunil initiated stringent action against them and started conducting raids on their illegal operations of the movement of trucks filled with sand. The mafia got rattled as not many officers in the past had taken such strong steps against the mafia. Some of the office employees who were allegedly close to the mafia informed them that the officer is determined to clean up the mafia’s illegal sand mining operations in that district and may cause them irreparable damage.

The mafia turned hostile and launched a counter-offensive. The tribal musclemen and mafia started threatening him with dire consequences. His family (wife and old mother) were stalked and were under virtual surveillance and thus causing mental torture, agony and stress to all of them. The matter assumed serious proportions when a muscleman came to his office and threatened him to stop raids etc., otherwise, his fate will not be different than some of his predecessors (ten years back one officer was killed by the mafia)

a) Identify the different options available to Sunil in attending this situation

b) Critically evaluate each of the options listed by you.

c) Which of the above, do you think, would be most appropriate for Sunil to adopt and why?

(Answer in 250 words)

Qn8. You are Vice Principal of a degree college in one of the middle-class towns. The principal has recently retired and management is looking for his replacement. There are also feelers that the management may promote you as Principal. In the meantime, during the annual examination, the flying squad which came from the university caught two students red-handed involving in unfair means. A senior lecturer of the college was personally helping these students in this act. This senior lecturer also happens to be close to the management. One of the students was the son of a local politician who was responsible for getting college affiliated to the present reputed university. The second student was the son of a local businessman who has donated maximum funds for running the college. You immediately informed the management regarding this unfortunate incident. The management told you to resolve the issue with the flying squad at any cost. They further said that such an incident will not only tarnish the image of the college but also the politician and the businessman are very important personalities for the functioning of the college. You were also given hint that your further promotion to Principal depends on your capability in resolving this issue with the flying squad. In the meantime, you were intimidated by your administrative officer that certain members of the student union are protesting outside the college gate against the senior lecturer and the students involved in this incident are demanding strict action against defaulters.

a) Discuss the ethical issue involved in the case.

b) Critically examine the options available with you as Vice Principal. What option will you adopt and why?

Qn9. An elevated corridor is being constructed to reduce traffic congestion in the capital of a particular state. You have been selected as project manager of this prestigious project on your professional competence and experience. The deadline is to complete the project in the next two years by 30 June 2021, since the project is to be inaugurated by the Chief Minister before the elections are announced in the second week of July 2021. While carrying out the surprise inspection by the inspecting team, a minor crack was noticed in one of the piers of the elevated corridor possibly due to poor material used. You immediately informed the chief engineer and stopped further work. It was assessed by you that a minimum of three piers of the elevated corridor have to be demolished and reconstructed. But this process will delay the project minimum by four to six months. But the chief engineer overruled the observation of the inspecting team on the ground that it was a minor crack that will not in any way impact the strength and durability of the bridge. He ordered you to overlook the observation of the inspecting team and continue working with the same speed and tempo. He informed you that the minister does not want any delay as he wants the Chief Minister to inaugurate the elevated corridor before the elections are declared. Also informed you that the contractor is a far relative of the minister and he wants him to finish the project. He also gave you a hint that your further promotion as an additional chief engineer is under consideration by the ministry. However, you strongly felt that the minor crack in the pier in the elevated corridor will adversely affect the health and life of the bridge and therefore it will be very dangerous not to repair the elevated corridor.

a) Under the given conditions, what are the options available to you as a project manager?

b) What are the ethical dilemmas being faced by the project manager and his response to overcome such challenges?

c) What are the professional challenges likely to be faced by the project manager and his response to overcome such challenges?

d) What can be the consequences of overlooking the observation raised by the inspecting team?

Qn10. The coronavirus disease ( COVID-19) pandemic has quickly spread to various countries.

As of May 8th, 2020, in India 56342 positive cases of corona had been reported. India with a population of more than 1.35 billion had difficulty in controlling the transmission of coronavirus among its population. Multiple strategies became necessary to handle this outbreak. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare of India raised awareness about this outbreak and to take all necessary actions to control the spread of COVID -19. Indian Government implemented a 55-day lockdown throughout the country to reduce the transmission of the virus. Schools and colleges had shifted to alternative modes of teaching-learning-evaluation and certification. Online mode became popular during these days.

India was not prepared for a sudden onslaught of such a crisis due to limited infrastructure in terms of human resources, money and other facilities needed for taking care of this situation. This disease did not spare anybody irrespective of caste, creed, religion on one hand and ‘have and have not’ on the other. Deficiencies in hospital beds, oxygen cylinders, ambulances, hospital staff and crematorium were the most crucial aspects.

You are a hospital administrator in a public hospital at the time when coronavirus had attacked a large number of people and patients were pouring into the hospital day in and day out.

a) What are your criteria and justification for putting your clinical and non-clinical staff to attend to the patients knowing fully well that it is a highly infectious disease and resources and infrastructure are limited?

b) If yours is a private hospital, whether your jurisdiction and decision would remain the same as that of a public hospital?

Qn11. A reputed food product company based in India developed a food product for the international market and started exporting the same after getting necessary approvals. The company announced this achievement and also indicated that soon the product will be made available for domestic consumers with almost the same quality and health benefits. Accordingly, the company got its product approved by the domestic competent authority and launched the product in the Indian market. The company could increase its market share over a period of time and earned substantial profit both domestically and internationally. However, the random sample test conducted by the inspecting team found the product being sold domestically in variance with the approval obtained from the competent authority. On further investigation, it was also discovered that the food company was not only selling products that were not meeting the health standard of the country but also selling the rejected export products in the domestic market. This episode adversely affected the reputation and profitability of the food company.

a) What action do you visualize should be taken by the competent authority against the food company for violating the laid down domestic food standard and selling rejected export products in the domestic market?

b) What course of action is available with the food company to resolve the crisis and bring back its lost reputation?

c) Examine the ethical dilemma involved in the case.

Qn12. Pawan is working as an officer in the State Government for the last ten years. As a part of the routine transfer, he was posted to another department. He joined a new office along with five other colleagues. The head of the office was a senior officer conversant with the functioning of the office. As a part of general inquiry, Pawan gathered that his senior officer carries the reputation of being a difficult and insensitive person having his own disturbed family life. Initially, all seem to go well. However, after some time Pawan felt that the senior officer was belittling him and at times unreasonable. Whatever suggestions given or views expressed by Pawan in the meetings were summarily rejected and the senior officer would express displeasure in the presence of others. It became a pattern of the boss’s style of functioning to show him in bad light highlighting his shortcomings and humiliating him publicly. It became apparent that though there are no serious work-related problems/shortcomings, the senior officer was always on one pretext or the other and would scold and shout at him. The continuous harassment and public criticism of Pawan resulted in the loss of confidence, self-esteem and equanimity. Pawan realized that his relations with his senior officer are becoming more toxic and due to this, he perpetually tensed, anxious and stressed. His mind was occupied with negativity and caused him mental torture, anguish and agony. Eventually, it badly affected his personal and family life. He was no longer joyous, happy and contented even at home. Rather without any reason, he would lose his temper with his wife and other family members. The family environment was no longer pleasant and congenial. His wife who was always supportive of him also became a victim of his negativity and hostile behaviour. Due to harassment and humiliation suffering by him in the office, comfort and happiness virtually vanished from his life. Thus, it damaged his physical and mental health.

a) What are the options available with Pawan to cope up with the situation?

b) What approach Pawan should adopt for bringing, peace, tranquillity and a congenial environment in the office and home?

c) As an outsider, what are your suggestions for both boss and subordinate to overcome this situation and for improving the work performance, mental and emotional hygiene?

d) In the above scenario, what type of training would you suggest for officers at various levels in the government offices?

GS4 Question Paper Analysis

GS Paper 4 deals with Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude . This is a dynamic paper – with multiple dimensions.

The paper really checked the quick-decision making skills and overall aptitude of the candidate for the job of a future civil servant.

Regarding case studies, most were connected to an ethical angle. However, it was not easy to satisfactorily answer case studies within the time constraints.

Important Take-Aways from the GS Paper 4 UPSC 2021 (Mains) – Question Paper

This paper stressed the importance of conceptual understanding in certain crucial areas like Ethics, Values, Aptitude etc.

Many questions focused on seeking examples from candidates – rather than theory. Examples will be the game-changer.

We recommend all aspirants go through the ClearIAS online notes on Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude .

Read the UPSC syllabus and previous year question papers multiple times. Prepare self-notes on every keyword (Eg: Crisis of conscience – which got repeated again).

There are no major surprises this year for those candidates who had carefully analysed the  previous year UPSC question papers . This year paper followed more or less the previous year trends.

The Ethics paper should be taken seriously to score high. It needs a different kind of preparation. Along with conceptual knowledge, the right practice and time managment are also crucial for success.

What do you think of this year’s General Studies Paper 4 questions? What are your comments about this paper?

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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.

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UPSC Essentials | Case Study (Week 6) — IAS officer who has a solution to water crisis

About 3,000 kilometers away from water stressed bengaluru, ias surendra kumar meena and alipurduar district administration have an effective solution to water scarcity. don't miss the post read question..

About 3,000 kilometers away from Bengaluru, a small district exemplified an effective solution to water scarcity through good governance. Let us learn about this good governance strategy that made big headlines.

The following case study is framed from a success story recognised at The Indian Express Excellence in Governance Awards. UPSC Essentials of The Indian Express takes you through some inspiring case studies every week from the area of Governance and Civil Services which not only highlight the problem but also focus on award-winning solutions.

For Essays, Governance and Ethics section of Mains examination as case studies and example-fodder for answers. Candidates will find it useful for framing replies in interviews and personality tests. This particular case study is relevant to questions related to water scarcity and disaster management. Moreover, such real-life stories should be read, noted, and applied to remain motivated, inspired and also to create role models.

Water scarcity was a common problem in Alipurduar district. Located in the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas, North Bengal’s Alipurduar district houses several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks. However, a decline in the groundwater level over the years led to a crisis in many parts of the district. The challenges faced by district administration and DM Surendra Kumar Meena included resource limitations and getting support from local people. Can good governance rejuvenate water bodies, provide solutions to water crises and breathe new life into this Bengal district?

The Problem

The Indian population is water-distressed. Newspaper headlines on the water crisis in Bengaluru should be a warning for both cities and villages in the country. Such warnings have also been indicated by studies, including the Niti Aayog’s Composite Water Management Index (CWMI). “If mitigation measures are not implemented, India faces a 6 per cent loss in its gross domestic product (GDP) by 2050,” the CWMI said.

Like Bengaluru, most Indian urban centres continue to neglect water management.

The Indian Express’ Editorial writes, “The governance deficit at the municipal level in India means that solutions such as rainwater harvesting, reviving water bodies and cleaning and reusing wastewater remain on paper. The crisis in Karnataka’s capital should be a wake-up call.” Addressing the water crisis requires innovative solutions at administrative level. Do we have any examples? Alipurduar has an answer – Jaladharini Dooars.

The Solution/ Idea

— In 2021, the district administration of Alipurduar launched a project to overcome the water crisis in the area by rejuvenating 235 derelict water bodies and digging new ponds.

— Named ‘ Jaladharini Dooars ’, the initiative has helped meet water demand for agriculture and allied activities during the dry season in the area.

— Jaladharini literally means ‘holding back of water’. It was given shape after detailed discussions with officers from departments including agriculture, horticulture, fisheries, animal resources and also with the district Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) cell.

— Discussions were also held with representatives from farmer groups, fisher-folk cooperative societies, local panchayat members and experts for identification of potential locations where water conservation could be taken up. Survey reports from the land department were also referred to and were later physically verified.

— According to District Magistrate Surendra Kumar Meena, twelve water bodies were rejuvenated in the first phase, said Meena. In the second phase, 221 water bodies, including 50 rejuvenated water bodies, were excavated. To meet the burgeoning  demands, the administration excavated 151 new ponds in the third phase.

— Excavation of ponds generated a lot of income for the locals. It has generated employment for over 6 lakh man-days through the MGNREGA scheme.

— One of the challenges the administration faced was identifying lands needed for the project. According to Suman Bagdas, the district planning officer, “Land department officers helped us overcome this challenge. Getting support from the locals was also a challenge but not a huge one since they were the worst affected due to the water crisis. Once the project started, they understood the importance of the initiative.”

— An example worth mentioning is Biswakarma Jhora. Located in Madarihat-Birpara block, Biswakarma Jhora is one of the biggest rejuvenated water bodies. Spread over 13 bighas, it is now a biodiversity park that comprises a fish sanctuary, a medicinal plant garden, a butterfly garden, an ornamental fish pond, a beekeeping farm and boating facilities. “A lot of tourists started coming to Biswakarma Jhora once it was completed. There is no entry fee for school students, while a nominal Rs 10 is charged for adults,” said Budesh Lama, the joint Block Development Officer (BDO) of Madarihat-Birpara block.

Prasenjit Saiba, the local fisher-folk committee secretary, said fish such as rohu, catla, miguel and calbasu are bred in these ponds. “We release small fish here. Once they grow, we sell them to local villagers at low prices,” said Saiba.

What we learn…

— Good governance implies that in the face of a crisis, our response should be more likely to be meaningful, effective and sustainable. We need to maintain a clear and steady view of the facts of the problem, and then act accordingly. Civil servants trying to address the water crisis would be more effective if they keep these pieces of wisdom in mind.

— There are many takeaways from the efforts of IAS Surendra Kumar Meena and the district administration of Alipurduar. Excavated over the last couple of years as part of a water conservation initiative, these ponds have revitalised agriculture, horticulture and pisciculture, besides functioning as a playground for pachyderms.

— According to DM Surendra Kumar Meena, the initiative helped increase the potential for preserving water in derelict water bodies throughout the year. This water was then utilised as a sustainable groundwater source to meet the demand during lean seasons, especially the dry season.

— It is worth noting that these water bodies were created to meet the agricultural needs of the locals but they ended up benefiting the wildlife too. “Now elephants from the nearby Jaldapara forest come to the newly excavated ponds at twilight to drink water and bathe,” said Yusuf Ali, the executive assistant of Khairbari gram panchayat.

— It must be appreciated that a  project, which included the creation of both community and individual ponds, has improved the economic status of the people. That is how a good governance strategy when applied on ground doesn’t only overcome a challenge but also open new doors of opportunties.

— For a sustainable water conservation project and an idea which may act as a role model for other water stressed areas,  IAS   Surendra Kumar Meena was awarded The Indian Express Excellence in Governance Award in the Water category.

Post Read Question: 

The Indian population is water-distressed. Addressing the water crisis requires innovative solutions at administrative level. Discuss.

About  The Indian Express  Excellence in Governance Awards

The Indian Express Excellence in Governance Awards attempts to identify and recognise the excellence in innovations at the district level by rewarding the spirit of the district. The Indian Express started the Excellence in Governance Awards (EIGA) in 2019. The Indian Express launched its second edition in 2022. These awards celebrate best practices across a range of 18 categories: Healthcare to Gender & Inclusion; Skill Development to innovative education, energy to agriculture, Start ups and innovation to E-Governance.

PREVIOUS CASE STUDIES:  

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Naman Goyal UPSC Marksheet, Rank, Optional Notes

Table of Contents

• 1 Naman Goyal Biography
• 2 Naman Goyal UPSC Booklist
• 3 Naman Goyal UPSC Marksheet
• 4 Last 3-4 days strategy for UPSC CIVIL SERVICES Prelims Exam by Naman Goyal UPSC Topper
• 5 Last 1 day strategy for UPSC CIVIL SERVICES Prelims Exam by Naman Goyal UPSC Topper
• 6 Naman Goyal UPSC Topper Booklist
• 7 Geography Optional booklist and strategy by Naman Goyal UPSC Topper
• 8 Geography Optional [ Paper 1 ] booklist and strategy by Naman Goyal UPSC Topper
• 9 Strategy for Human Geography by Naman Goyal UPSC Topper
• 10 Geography Optional [ Paper 2 ] booklist and strategy by Naman Goyal UPSC Topper
• 11 Answer writing strategy for Geography Optional by Naman Goyal UPSC Topper
• 12 Naman Goyal UPSC Topper Notes
• 13 Frequently asked questions by students to Naman Goyal UPSC Topper
• 14 Naman Goyal UPSC Topper Geography Optional Notes
• 15 Motivational Post by Naman Goyal UPSC Topper
• 16 Secret Preparation Strategy by Naman Goyal UPSC Topper
• 17 Strategy for UPSC GS Mains by Naman Goyal UPSC Topper
• 18 How to prepare for Geography Optional Paper 2 map pointing by Naman Goyal UPSC Topper?
• 19 Answers written by Naman Goyal UPSC Topper
• 20 Timetable for UPSC Preparation by Naman Goyal UPSC Topper
• 21 Last 1 week strategy for Naman Goyal UPSC Topper
• 22 Wishes to students by Naman Goyal UPSC Topper

Naman Goyal Biography

Hello everyone!! This is Naman Goyal. I have secured an AIR 30 in UPSC CSE 2021. My optional is Geography. I have done my B.Tech in Chemical Engineering from IIT Bombay and graduated in 2020. This was my 2nd attempt at CSE. The objective of this channel would be to ensure honest and reliable information regarding the complete preparation process. I would also be sharing my strategy, some notes, answer scripts, and other such relevant information. Most importantly, take this channel as a source of guide and based on your wisdom, realign your strategy.

Naman Goyal UPSC Booklist

Naman goyal upsc marksheet.

Below are my marksheets for the 2 attempts for your own perusal. My marks in the 2020 attempt has taught me invaluable lessons on how to reorient my approach. Major improvements were required in Essay, GS1 and optional.

Last 3-4 days strategy for UPSC CIVIL SERVICES Prelims Exam by Naman Goyal UPSC Topper

Prelims is round the corner, hence I would not take much time of the aspirants. But few general tips that can be followed for the coming 3-4 days and during exam:

• Only revise at the moment, don’t read anything new.
• Focus on revision of static part because, it is the static portion which is rewarding and predictable.
• I used to have atleast one reading of all the notes and current affairs in the last 3-4 days and quick revision of solutions of mock papers and PYQs
• Forgo the burden of marks you have got in the mocks, actual paper would be very different and give it with a sense of zeal and confidence
• Setup your body clock according to the exam timing and have light food for all the coming days. Take special care of the summer heat and drink plenty of water
• During exam – stick to your strategy of attempting the paper, don’t change it during the exam. I used to do 3 rounds of 60-35-25mins. In the 1st round, usual attempt would be 45-55 confident questions, 2nd round – 25Q with 2 options eliminated, 3rd round with only 1 option eliminated. This led to me attempting ~90Q both the years.
• Usually avoid factual questions which you are completely clueless about.
• Most importantly – read every word carefully, many questions can be solved just by reading each word and using elimination techniques.
• Manage time very well, as the papers have been becoming increasingly lengthy.
• For CSAT – those who are comfortable with the paper should atleast attempt last year question paper to understand the requirement. For others who might find certain sections difficult, start with your strength and find easy questions from the weak areas. Try to attempt over 50Q with considerable accuracy. Usually questions from reasoning and maths are easier.
• Above all, maintain calm in the exam. This one thing has helped me tremendously in scoring 120+ in 2020 prelims. Think as if you are giving another mock test and don’t get worried if any particular section is difficult. This will boost your confidence, reduce anxiety, decrease silly mistakes.
• Make the most of the days ahead and believe me that prelims is more of the game of managing the emotions well than knowledge testing. With right mindset, one can easily qualify.

You all would do great, all the best!!

Last 1 day strategy for UPSC CIVIL SERVICES Prelims Exam by Naman Goyal UPSC Topper

Tomorrow is an important day for many of you, and those 4 hours would judge your years and months of preparation. My advice would be to take tomorrow as any other day in your life. BE CALM, BE COMPOSED and BE CONFIDENT. Believe in yourself and have faith that no force on earth would be able to stop you tomorrow from giving your best.

Also, it is natural to be worried, even I was last year, but those who conquer the anxiety sail through. Enjoy the exam and the process, cherish each and every question and use it as an attempt to display your months and years of hardwork.

Believe in yourself that you are going to feature in the holy PDF and giving prelims is just a step towards that direction.

Prepare the essential documents, be on time, eat light, take care of summer heat, don’t begin to discuss between the two papers and stick to your own strategy.

All the best to each one of you, tomorrow is your day. Hum honge kamyab!! 👍😄

Naman Goyal UPSC Topper Booklist

1.Art and culture – NCERT class 11 – An introduction to Indian Art, Nitin Singhania notes selective reading, CCRT website

2.Ancient History – RS Sharma Old NCERT, Themes in Indian History NCERT

3.Medieval History – Satish Chandra OLD NCERT, Themes in Indian History NCERT

4.Modern History – Spectrum. I found PPT notes of Pratik Nayak useful for me and made them my only notes

5.World History – Shreyans Kumat Sir notes, Vision IAS notes

6.Post Independence history – Nitin Sangwan book

7.Society – Smriti Shah Ma’am notes of Vision IAS, Class 12th book on Sociology, Current Affairs value addition

8.Geography – My optional, hence didn’t focus much for GS. Commonly followed sources are 6-12th NCERT, GC Leong, PMFIAS

9.Polity – Laxmikanth, value added material from Vision IAS, Current affairs

10.Governance – VisionIAS static material, ARC II notes of Anudeep Durishetty Sir

11.Social Issue – Vision IAS notes, Current affairs addition

12.International Relations – Current affairs, static notes from the internet

13.Economy – Ramesh Singh book, Class XI and XII NCERT, syllabuswise topics from Value added material of Vision IAS and Mrunal, Economic Survey, Budget, Govt Schemes

14.Environment – Shankar book, Current Affairs, Class XII Biology NCERT

15.Science And Tech – Current Affairs

16.Internal Security – Vision IAS notes, Current Affairs

17.Disaster Management – Covered in Optional, NDMA guidelines

18.Ethics – prepared my notes from lexicon and a terms table through google search

In terms of booklist, stick to your selected reading material. Don’t run after many sources and focus on repeated reading of selected books. Make notes out of every material you read and consolidate it into a single syllabuswise notes for easy retention and revision. For example, everything(static and current) related to Health should be together at one place.

I will share my Geography optional booklist and detailed strategy next.

Geography Optional booklist and strategy by Naman Goyal UPSC Topper

• My basic source of optional material has remained the foundation class notes of Himanshu Sir(Guidance IAS). I didn’t attend any foundation course but used his class notes available in the market for building the foundation of the optional.
• Combining content from the Himanshu Sir’s notes and various standard books, I have made my own notes of most topics in the syllabus.
• To further enrich my notes, I had attended the Guidance IAS 500+ classes and Edukemy’s MSP program. Both these programmes had helped me immensely in improving my writing style and practicing question-answers for geography optional. Notes of 500+ are also sometimes sufficient for certain topics which are otherwise not covered well in the foundation classes.
• I practiced many tests from Guidance IAS test series programme and the previous year questions which helped me develop a way to write the geography answers.
• I scored poor marks in my 2020 attempt, hence gave a lot of focus on geography optional. Hardwork in this optional in the right direction would pay you with good marks.

Geography Optional [ Paper 1 ] booklist and strategy by Naman Goyal UPSC Topper

Paper 1: Physical Geography:

• Geomorphology: Himanshu Sir class notes, Physical Geography by Savindra Singh, 500+ notes

It is a daunting task to cover and remember this huge chapter. One should strategise better for getting maximum fruit from this chapter. The whole Geomorphology can be divided into 2 broad sections – Tectonic Geomorphology and Landform Development.

Tectonic Geomorphology consists of topics like geomagnetism, earth’s interior, Geosynclines, Continental drift, Isostasy, Plate tectonics; mountain building etc. These are relatively easy topics to cover and UPSC is also asking simpler questions from these topics. Cover them from any good coaching material and Savindra Singh book. Make flowcharts and diagrams in your notes from books. Have a holistic mental map of these topics rather than trying to learn word by word. For example, in continental drift know the geographer, assumptions, postulates, application of theory, criticism, improvements etc. Covering this section would have a high cost to benefit ratio and reward you well.

Landform development is the most trickiest topic in the whole of Physical Geography and consists of geomorphic cycles and Landscape development ; Denudation chronology; Channel morphology; Erosion surfaces; Slope development ; Applied Geomorphology etc. Himanshu sir notes are a good source for these topics. Supplement this with Savindra Singh. Understand the theories of different geographers well and again prepare diagrams and flowcharts in your notes. Try to have a thorough understanding of trio of Davis, and theories of Penck, King etc. This section takes a lot of time to cover and the cost benefit ratio is also poor. Hence, I would recommend you to NOT spend disproportionately high time in covering these topics, and focus on other scoring section.

• Climatology: Climatology by Savindra Singh, Class notes and 500+ of Himanshu Sir

Cover each and every topic in detail. Conceptual clarity is required for good understanding of topics like planetary winds, atmospheric instability, jet streams, monsoon, air masses, frontogenesis etc. Watch some Youtube videos for better understanding. Some of the topics like Monsoon, cyclones, world climate classification, applied climatology are very frequently asked by UPSC, hence cover them in great detail.

Diagrams and maps are very important for this topic , make a separate notebook of only diagrams and practice them many a times. Topics like climate change, urban climate and applied climatology are being commonly asked by UPSC. Include anthropocentric and possibilistic viewpoints from perspectives in your answer here.

• Oceanography: Physical Geography by Savindra Singh, Class notes and 500+ of Himanshu Sir

Straightforward and easier chapter of Physical Geography. Cover each and every topic including bottom topography in great detail. Have maps and diagrams prepared for temperature, salinity profile, ocean deposits. Prepare theories of coral formation in great detail.

Some of the topics like marine resources, coral bleaching, law of the sea, pollution are frequently ignored by students, but these are frequently appearing in the exams. Have some good case studies prepared for these topics as well. For example, recent news on Great Barrier Reef as a case study, Deep Ocean Mission, Offshore energy plants etc. Use concepts of Political Geography in the law of the sea.

Oceanography and Climatology are high scoring and predictable topics from physical geography, hence prepare them well including the PYQs.

• Biogeography and Environmental Geography: Class notes and 500+ of Himanshu Sir, Internet

No single good source or a book exists for this topic, but Himanshu sir’s notes are good. Prepare soil extensively as questions are frequently asked. Factors affecting distribution of plants and animals is a major topic and prepare distribution given by a few geographers.

Prepare Ecology topics by preparing on each and every word of the syllabus. Some of the content can also be picked from the Environment of GS3. Climate change and impact of man on environment are commonly asked questions.

I will continue to address your doubts and queries in the coming posts. This series of strategy for geography optional including answer writing would continue as well.

Strategy for Human Geography by Naman Goyal UPSC Topper

• Perspectives in Human Geography: Class notes and 500+ of Himanshu Sir, RD Dikshit

We often find this chapter slightly difficult to comprehend and write. But this chapter plays crucial role in your preparation of Geography Optional. It gives real ‘perspectives’ of what geography entails and how has it evolved in time and space. Concepts of perspectives can also be directly used in various questions in paper 1 and paper 2, hence understanding it becomes crucial for a good score.

Start by reading notes of Himanshu Sir or attending any foundation course where the chapter is taught well. Once you have general idea of the topic, start reading relevant chapters from RD Dikshit and Sudipta Adhikari’s book. Directly reading the book would make the understanding of the topics difficult. For every topic in Perspectives, make notes of different geographers contribution, their thoughts, different currents in geography, leading institutions and countries, books and papers written by geographers, examples mentioned by geographers, their quotes, criticisms etc.

Most important is to understand the meaning and essence of terms like determinism, possibilism, radicalism, behaviouralism, quantitative revolution, humanism, areal differentiation, regional synthesis etc. Also prepare smaller topics like Environmentalism, HDI, culture, Religion well by linking them to basics of perspectives. Eg, culture to diffusion theory, possibilism, humanism etc

Cover all the topics of Human Geography really well, they take lesser time than Physical geography and are less technical and easy to understand.

• Economic Geography: Class notes and 500+ of Himanshu Sir, data from NCERTs

Prepare all the topics and link them with theories such as Whittlesey, Von Thunen, Haggerstand Diffusion theory, Limits to Growth, Malthusian, Marxist principles, Watts triangle for famine, Weber’s Industrial Location Theory, Ackermann etc. Most of the topics, hence, can be linked with one or more of such theories and mentioning them in the answer would add value.

Also, collect examples and case studies to be quoted in the questions. For example, I had the case study of Irish potato famine for the topic of famine, comparison of development indicators of different countries etc. Also make maps in all the questions and quote facts in topics like development, hunger, world trade etc.

• Population and Settlement Geography: Class notes and 500+ of Himanshu Sir, Models in Geography by Majid Husain Both these topics are high scoring and predictable. In population geography, understand the theories like Malthusian, Marxian, Neo-Malthusian, Demographic Transition Theory very well and use them in many questions. Diagrams related to age profile, dependency, DTT are very important. Collect maps with plots of global population distribution, density, life expectancy, fertility, literacy and all the demographic attributes and use them in question wherever feasible.

Case studies of countries can also be used in many questions. Use Indian case study from Census 2011, Japan/Russia for declining population, China for fertility, Africa for mortality reversals, Population policy of India etc. Use many examples in questions of migration and plot them on map. Also prepare social capital, well being from the internet.

For Settlement Geography, learn all the important theories like Primate city, rank size rule, concentric morphology, nuclear and sectoral morphology of cities, functional classification and use them repetitively. Definitions of conurbation, global city, urban agglomeration, rural urban fringe etc should be clear. Include from perspectives, contribution of different urban geographers in your answers.

Examples and case studies are very relevant here. Google for morphology of different world cities, problems faced by cities like Los Angeles, Jakarta, Delhi, solution and innovative methods employed by cities like Hong Kong, Amsterdam, Bengaluru. These can be sourced from UN Habitat documents. Give high focus on problems and remedies to urbanisation.

• Regional Planning: Class notes and 500+ of Himanshu Sir

Theories like Rostov model, Boudeville growth center, Cumulative causation, core periphery model etc should be prepared in detail and used wherever possible. Questions asked are not very difficult and can be answered by covering all the syllabus points. Examples/Case studies of regional planning like Damodar Valley, Aswan Dam, Delhi NCR planning, Panchayati Raj decentralisation, Resource curse etc can add value to the answers

• Models and theories: Models in Geography by Majid Husain

Questions are directly asked on various theories but more importantly using these in paper 1 and Paper 2 can significantly boost your marks. Prepare from the perspective of geographer, year of theory, books, assumptions, postulates, diagrams, examples, criticisms, comparison with other theories. Each of these theories should be at the fingertips and to be used wherever possible in different papers.

In the next few posts, I will detail out the strategy for Paper 2, answer writing strategy for Geography optional and the points to be kept in mind while preparing for this optional. Simultaneously, I’ll begin sharing my notes and tests.

Geography Optional [ Paper 2 ] booklist and strategy by Naman Goyal UPSC Topper

Sources: A Comprehensive Geography by D R Khullar, Current affairs compilation from Mains 365, Maps from Oxford Atlas, Case studies from Internet, Yojana, Geography and You, Class notes and 500+ of Himanshu Sir etc

For paper 2, content can be prepared from different coaching materials and books like D R Khullar, NCERTs etc. Supplement the content with current affairs as lately many questions have been asked from current affairs. For mapping practise, ‘India Through Maps’ book by Prem Patel is good to cover the static map entries, while map entries in current affairs are covered by different coaching institutions.

More important than content is the way of answer writing in the Paper 2. We generally tend to write GS kind of answers and end up scoring low marks. Hence, it is very essential to understand the demand of paper 2 and how to write a geographical answer to score maximum. I did the same mistake and after correcting it, I improved my P2 score from 88 to 132. I will discuss in detail on how to write a good geographical answer for P2 question through my mock test copies.

Answer writing strategy for Geography Optional by Naman Goyal UPSC Topper

Paper 1: There is a slight difference of points to be kept in mind while writing answers in paper 1 and 2. In paper 1, the understanding of different concepts and theories is very important. For physical geography answers, draw relevant diagram wherever possible and write in technical terms. For example, in a question on channel morphology, the examiner would look for terms like long profile, cross profile, hydraulic geometry, sediment load, bed and bank material, graded profile, bed topography like riffles, pools, meanders, knick points, sand bars, braided river, anabranches, vertical erosion, downward cutting, features like delta etc. If these are missing in your answers, you would lose marks.

Also, conceptual clarity is required for explanation of theories. Names of Geographers are equally important. Maps should be made in relevant areas. One can write in points or paragraph, based on the convenience.

In Human geography, explain the topic asked in question really well. Mention geographer’s name, use different theory to explain the concept, make diagrams, use many examples and case studies and add perspectives at a few places. For example, in a question on relevance of Malthus population theory – briefly mention the salient features of theory, make maps in support of the theory of overpopulated regions, use case studies of a few countries, use current affairs example such as COVID as a positive check, criticise the relevance of theory and mention about Marxist viewpoint and DTT.

Paper 2: Making a GS type of question into a geography answer is tricky and requires a lot of practise. I used to follow an acronym for every answer, PEFMCDT (Perspectives, Examples, Facts, Map, Case Studies, Diagram, theories) and try to include atleast a few of them in every answer. Eg, In a question of future of fossil fuels in India, draw a map of fossil fuels found in India, use facts of coal and crude consumption, use theories like Limits to Growth/Malthus carrying capacity/Growth Pole etc, case study on future of coal production, UNFCCC Data, renewable energy generation and capacity map, different govt schemes for renewable energy in your answer.

Some answers can be made geographical, simply by following the chapters of the syllabus. My acronym for this was – PRAITCSRP ( Physical Setting, Resources, Agriculture, Industries, Trade and transport, Cultural setting, Settlement, RDP, Political Geog). Make one point for each of these chapters and your answer would look geographical. For example, backwardness of North East India can be written through – harsh topography, forested area, lack of resources like flat land, shifting cultivation, lack of industrial development, poor railways, roadways connectivity, multiple ethnicities and tribes, geopolitical conflicts, insurgencies etc.

In conclusion, use of all these concepts would come with practise. Hence, write many PYQs and mock tests. You would improve with time and your answer would begin to reflect regional approach required. I will explain this further using my own answers later. Till then, carefully observe how I have utilised these in my answers from the test copies.

Naman Goyal UPSC Topper Notes

I will begin to share my notes from now. I would strongly advise you all to not treat these notes as your primary source to study the optional. Rather, use these notes to supplement your own notes by adding new points, facts, diagrams, maps, case studies etc from these.

I have made these notes from standard books, coaching notes, internet sources etc. Also, I try to keep my notes crisp and short for easy revision and quick completion. However, make your own notes based on your own comfort level. Also, I won’t be sharing my 500+ notes of GuidanceIAS as these are copyrighted material of the coaching.

Frequently asked questions by students to Naman Goyal UPSC Topper

I am addressing some of the doubts raised by the students on this group.

• How to plan for next 80-90 days till mains?

The focus should be on studying for mains rather than speculating prelims marks. Usually advisable practise is to cover complete optional at the beginning in the initial 25-30 days. This would cover a major portion of the preparation and help in multiple revision of optional later.

Once, a major portion of the optional is over, cover static and current affairs of GS and start with answer writing practise. It is advisable to start giving mocks by the next month. Depending on your practise and comfort with answer writing, one can target 10-15 mock papers to be given for GS before mains. Similarly, attempt Optional mocks as well.

Very important is to make a schedule(daily, weekly and monthly) of covering GS, Optional, their revision, tests etc to ensure timely completion of syllabus and multiple revisions.

• How to read and consolidate current affairs for GS and optional?

I have always followed The Hindu newspaper and read it daily. I also made notes of the newspaper in the online mode (Evernote) segregated chapter and subject wise. The second source I followed was the monthly current affairs magazine and Mains 365 of VisionIAS. I also added the current affairs from these to my static notes of different chapters.

For Geography optional, the above source along with Kosmos of Edukemy and newsletter of GuidanceIAS are a good source for current affairs. Always, think from the perspective of geographical theories while reading any current affairs.

Best Test Series for UPSC CSE Geography Optional by Naman Goyal

• Which test series are good for optional?

I had mostly written tests in GuidanceIAS. The questions framed are good, however there were some delay with respect to solution discussion. The evaluation is also good and the rank lists are uploaded. Other well known test series are Edukemy’s and Masterstroke that I was not a part of. Here, I am not endorsing any coaching, it’s based on my own experience.

• Which pen did I use? And should we draw with colour pens?

I used Hauser Sonic Gel pen. I felt comfortable with this pen. You can try different types of ball and gel pens to find your comfort.

I only used a single blue pen throughout my paper to write and draw diagrams. I couldn’t use different pens to save time, neither did I feel very comfortable with using coloured pens. However, using 2-3 different colors pens does highlight the diagram and map better.

• How to depict our answer in a flowchart?

Start with making flowchart in your notes. Whenever there are many points to be written, those can be written in different types of flowcharts(search google). It will become easy to use flowcharts with practise.

• What to observe from the topper’s copies?

Look at the following: 1.Structure of answer writing, use of IBC, subheadings 2.Number of points written in each subheading 3.Use of diagrams, flowchart, map 4.How crisp or detailed each point is 5.Use of technical terms, examples, case studies etc relevant to that subject 6.Content of the answer 7.Extra value addition through schemes, committees, way forward etc

Naman Goyal UPSC Topper Geography Optional Notes

I have shared my majority of notes of Geography Optional, a few left would be shared in due course of time. I won’t be sharing my Geomorphology, Climatology and Oceanography notes as they are scattered and difficult to understand for others. I will also share my diagram copy snippets.

I would recommend you to read my notes as synopsis of detailed notes and extract value addition from them. For detailed notes, you can read notes uploaded by Om Kant Thakur Sir. I also followed his notes and found them to be good. Below is the link to his channel.

Motivational Post by Naman Goyal UPSC Topper

The prelims results has been declared yesterday. For some of you who feel relieved to have clear this crucial stage of the exam, should put in their 100% for mains. Consider this as an opportunity to show your best and how you deserve to be a civil servant. Put in your highest dedication for the next 90 days and leave no stone unturned in your mains preparation.

Some of you could not clear the prelims stage despite putting in the maximum efforts. I could understand how difficult this phase would be for you, but take some rest for a few days. Do whatever you can that can lighten your mood. I used to talk to my parents at length and that gave me relief during distress. I always used to follow the quote during my preparation – ‘Sometimes you win, other times you learn’. I learnt a lot from my Mains 2020 failure and restrategised my approach that helped me tremendously. I wish that with this renewed vigour, you all would emerge stronger and this failure would become your first step towards success.

Secret Preparation Strategy by Naman Goyal UPSC Topper

Timeline for preparation:

One should dedicatedly prepare for 9 months to 1 year before the prelims. In the first 2 months, focus should be on understanding syllabus and reading NCERTs. Make notes of the NCERTs so that you need not read them again. Also, one can start with watching current affairs Youtube videos of reputed coachings and read newspapers simultaneously to understand relevant material.

Next, one should start with reading the standard books. You can make notes of these books. By now, read newspapers like The Hindu or Indian Express properly and understand important news. One should try to complete the optional syllabus in this time as well. This exercise could take 5-6 months. Answer writing practice can be started in due course of time, once you have basic understanding of topics.

For the next 2-3 months, focus should shift to prelims. Multiple Revision of standard material is crucial to remember facts. Give many mocks and learn the art of elimination, attempting the paper, time management and enrich the content. Solve PYQs and strengthen the commonly asked topics. CSAT should not be ignored and practiced regularly for those finding some difficulty.

After prelims, start with covering the optional in the initial 20-25 days. With priority, complete any left out notes for topics not asked in prelims like governance, ethics, society, internal security etc. Along with revision of all GS papers, start giving mock tests. Write as much as you can with focus on improving on your mistakes. See topper’s copies and understand their methodology of answering. Also, consolidate your notes by including facts, diagrams, maps, committees, schemes in them. At the end, make short notes and write simulation tests. This timeline would vary for those doing coaching as well.

Strategy for UPSC GS Mains by Naman Goyal UPSC Topper

• I followed the books that I have already mentioned in an earlier post.
• I made notes for most topic or used topper notes for better understanding, quick and multiple revisions, addition of value added content, etc
• I began answer writing only after I covered the standard books. Initially, I wrote daily answers from InsightIAS and later shifted to PYQs.
• Current Affairs- Initially I saw Byju’s daily The Hindu analysis on Youtube for a month. Then later shifted to reading The Hindu newspaper by myself and making notes of them. I devoted 1.5hrs daily to newspaper. I also read VisionIAS monthly magazines, PT365 and Mains 365.
• Answer format- many points, less words was my philosophy. I would write 10-12 points in 10marks and 15-16 points in 15marks. My points would 1-2 line only and many points would include examples.
• Flowchart- They can add value to the answer and break the monotonous nature. I would make flowcharts in 30-40% of the answers. They can be table, star, circles, sequence etc.
• Introduction would be a definition, fact, recent happenings etc. While body would be divided into subsections addressing each part of the question. Conclusion should be made futuristic which can include way forward, recommendations, schemes etc.
• Try to multidimensionalize the answer by including political, social, economic, environmental, technological points etc.

How to prepare for Geography Optional Paper 2 map pointing by Naman Goyal UPSC Topper ?

As already mentioned, Prem Patel’s book for static map entries can be followed. Prepare some of the frequently occurring areas like tourist places, rivers, lakes, peaks, passes etc in detail. For current affairs map entries, any good coaching material of map entries can be followed. Atlas should also be read regularly.

How to consolidate notes of different sources into one?

For note making, make notes topicwise mentioned in the syllabus. If you read more than one source for any topic then add extra content in the originally prepared notes rather than preparing separate notes from each source. Similarly, add current affairs in the static part itself.

How to evaluate your own answers?

One should evaluate the answers after seeing the model solutions. The parameters of evaluation are structure, content, use of relevant maps, diagrams, flowchart, case studies etc. The answer should follow a regional approach. One should also closely follow topper’s copies to understand their way of answer writing and compare them with yours.

Should You rely completely on my notes?

No, you should only take my notes as reference to collect some additional points, maps, diagrams etc. One can also look for some topics which are missed in your own notes.

Answers written by Naman Goyal UPSC Topper

Above attached answer

Q.  Assess fossil fuel reserves of India in terms of current and future demands of energy.

Ans. Introduction – mentioned facts regarding use of fossil fuels for power generation in India

• Started by drawing a detailed map showing regional reserves of coal, gas and crude
• Also tried to make the map informative by mentioning facts regarding each of the major regions. This makes the answer geographical with regional approach.
• Writing about future demands of energy, I linked concepts of Malthus to availability. Also, use of geopolitical challenges to fossil fuels use.
• Then, mentioned a case study on Limits to Growth principle for coal availability(geographical)
• Use of technocentric environmentalism perspective to show how future demand of energy would shift to newer fossil sources and renewable energy.

Q. Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) has the potential to transform rural India. Comment.

Ans. Introduction – mentioned words from the syllabus like Command Area Development, Integrated watershed development program

Main Body –

• Made a map showing need of irrigation in India and a graph
• Use of concepts of dryland farming(syllabus), malthus, monsoon to show need of irrigation augmentation
• Discussed concepts of PMKSY using a case study on Ralegan Siddhi
• Also, mentioned Per drop more crop, Har khet ko paani. Used case study of Punjab
• Concept of Multi Level planning (Syllabus)

Conclusion can be suggestive or a way forward

Timetable for UPSC Preparation by Naman Goyal UPSC Topper

Regarding planning and time management while studies, I used to follow the below strategy.

I would not plan my day for every hour, but I would have broad targets for a day and for 3 days. For instance, I would decide that I would complete revision of Internal security today and in the next 3 days I will cover disaster management, environment and give a sectional test on the 3rd day. By giving myself targets in the form of tests, I would try to cover the syllabus of the test in the assigned period. Similarly, you can identify your strengths and give yourself targets and plan accordingly. Don’t hope for 100% success in implementation of these plans, but have a pragmatic understanding and try to achieve maximum out of them. Planning and implementing these religiously is a very important aspect of UPSC preparation, therefore plan your work and work your plan.

Below is a sample of my way of planning for the last month before Mains.

Last 1 week strategy for Naman Goyal UPSC Topper

With few weeks left for Mains exam, revision should be in full swing. One must align revisions with the mock tests. For instance, make a plan to cover all the portion of GS1 and GS 2 in the next 5 days and give full length tests on day 6. One can also begin with simulations of the real exam. For this, give yourself 7-10 days to complete revision of all GS papers and attempt all the 4 papers in the same time schedule as the actual mains in 2 days. This will improve your endurance and make it easier to complete the actual exam. Similarly, do revisions of optionals.

Also, in the last few days, making short notes becomes very important for quick revisions just before exam. You can make 4-5 pages of short notes of major subjects and only include things that you don’t remember well like facts, diagrams, terminologies, definitions etc. Make them very concise. I have included a sample short notes of optional for reference.

Wishes to students by Naman Goyal UPSC Topper

Best wishes to all the aspirants giving Mains tomorrow. For the next 10 days, give your best. You might not feel fully prepared but this is very normal at this time. Go with full confidence and a smile on your face. At the same time, take sufficient time to travel to the exam centre. Eat healthy and easy to digest food. Take adequate sleep.

Stick to the strategy you have developed to attempt the paper. Be mindful of time and space management during exam. Revise the short notes and only very important materials like facts, schemes, committees, articles which you tend to forget. The foremost thing is to control the anxiety and give the papers like any other mock paper. You will do wonders with a calm mind.

Again, all the best for the exams. May you all shine like the brightest stars.

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JPSC Prelims Question Paper 2024, Download Set Wise PDF

In this article, we are providing the JPSC Prelims Question Paper PDF Link. Candidates can now access and download the JPSC Prelims Question Paper in this article.

Table of Contents

The Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) conducts the JPSC Civil Services Examination, which is one of the most prestigious exams in the state. This examination consists of multiple stages, with the first stage being the preliminary examination, held this year on March 17. Similar to other state exams, the JPSC exam also had two shifts. The first shift took place from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and the second shift from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. To facilitate the students who appeared in the JPSC Prelims examination, this article provides the JPSC Question Paper 2024. By using this question paper, students can analyze the exam pattern and the level of questions asked in the examination.

JPSC Prelims Question Paper 2024

The Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) is organizing the State Civil Services Examination to fill positions in Group A and Group B. The notification for this recruitment drive was released in January, announcing a total of 342 vacancies across the state. Notably, the State PCS Examination in Jharkhand is being held after several years.

The JPSC Prelims examination consists of four sets, each available in both Hindi and English. In this article, we have provided the JPSC Prelims Question Paper 2024 for candidates. This question paper gives insights into how marks are distributed among various topics and the types of questions included in the exam.

Check JPSC Exam Analysis 2024

JPSC Prelims Question Paper 2024 PDF

The JPSC Prelims Exam for Paper 1, which emphasizes General Studies, has been completed successfully. We have provided below the JPSC Prelims Question Paper 2024, obtained from participants in the examination. Whether you have already taken the 11th JPSC Prelims exam or intend to participate in future JPSC Exams, it’s essential to thoroughly review all sets of the 11th JPSC Prelims Question Paper for comprehensive preparation. You can find the question paper attached for your reference.

Check the JPSC 2024 Answer key 

JPSC Question Paper 2024

Candidates are strongly encouraged to carefully examine the JPSC Question Paper, as it provides valuable insights into potential question formats. Exploring the JPSC Question Paper PDF can be an excellent beginning for candidates to kickstart their preparation and create effective strategies. Accessing the Jharkhand Public Service Commission JPSC Prelims Papers, including a downloadable PDF.

JPSC Prelims Question Paper 2021

The Civil Services Examination was conducted in Jharkhand on September 19, 2021. This examination was also conducted offline. You can download the JPSC 2021 prelims question paper by clicking on the link provided below:

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Hey there! I'm Nikesh, a content writer at Adda247. I specialize in creating informative content focused on UPSC and State PSC exams. Join me as we unravel the complexities of these exams and turn aspirations into achievements together!

When was the JPSC Prelims examination conducted in 2024?

The JPSC Prelims examination for 2024 was conducted on March 17, 2024, in the state of Jharkhand.

In how many shifts was the Jharkhand Civil Services Examination conducted?

The Jharkhand Civil Services Examination was conducted in two shifts. The first shift took place from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, while the second shift was scheduled from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

Where can I find the JPSC Prelims Question Paper 2024 for download?

You can find the JPSC Prelims Question Paper 2024 available for download in this article. The question paper sets are provided here in both Hindi and English languages.

How many sets are there in the JPSC Prelims Question Paper 2024?

The JPSC Prelims Question Paper 2024 consists of four sets, each available in both Hindi and English languages.

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Geography Optional Syllabus for UPSC and Exam Pattern

By Aspire IAS

Posted on : 01 September, 2021 18:35

The UPSC IAS Geography Mains Optional carry a total weightage of 500 marks. The Geography Optional Syllabus  for UPSC Examination 2023 and 2024 is divided into two papers - Papers I & II carrying 250 marks each.

For the UPSC Main exam, the candidates are required to choose one optional subject from the list of subjects offered.

Geography as an optional has a great success rate and it has been a record of Aspire IAS that those who write Mains with Geography Optional has high chances of clearing UPSC Examination 2023 – 2024 due to great mentorship of Ankit Sir and targeted preparation through Geography optional strategy which helps them score 290+ marks in UPSC Optional Papers like Reeshma Mam. The Geography Optional Syllabus  for UPSC is quite vast and lengthy which requires consistent effort and strategy.

Division of Geography Optional Syllabus

• Physical Geography
• Human Geography
• Geography of India

Hence we have divided the Geography Optional Syllabus into an easily understandable format for targeted studies as we do in Aspire IAS under the guidance of Ankit Sir who has 15+ years of Geography.

PAPER I: Principles of Geography

Paper-I of Geography Optional Syllabus  is divided into Physical Geography and Human Geography.

Part 1: Physical Geography:

Part I of Paper I of UPSC IAS Geography Optional Syllabus consists of Physical Geography which includes Geomorphology, Climatology, Oceanography, Biogeography, and Environment Geography.

1. Geomorphology for Geography Optional Syllabus:

Geomorphology is the study of landforms, their processes, form, and sediments at the surface of the Earth (and sometimes on other planets). The study includes looking at landscapes to work out how the earth's surface processes, such as air, water, and ice, can mold the landscape. The Geomorphology syllabus of Physical Geography includes the following subtopics

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

2. Climatology for Geography Optional Syllabus:

Climatology or climate science is the scientific study of climate, scientifically defined as weather conditions averaged over a period of time. Following are the subtopics:

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

3. Oceanography for Geography Syllabus:

Oceanography is a science that deals with the oceans and includes the delimitation of their extent and depth, the physics and chemistry of their waters, marine biology, and the exploitation of their resources. It includes

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

4. Biogeography for Geography Optional Syllabus:

Biogeography is the study of the distribution of species and ecosystems in geographic space and through geological time. It includes

• The genesis of soils;
• Classification and distribution of soils;
• Soil profile;
• Soil erosion,
• Degradation and conservation;
• Factors influencing world distribution of plants and animals;
• Problems of deforestation and conservation measures;
• Social forestry, agroforestry;
• Major gene pool centers.

5. Environmental Geography for Geography Syllabus:

Environmental geography is the branch of geography that describes the spatial aspects of interactions between humans and the natural world. It includes:

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

Part II: Human Geography

1. perspectives in human geography for geography optional syllabus:             .

• Areal differentiation;
• Regional synthesis;
• Dichotomy and dualism;
• Environmentalism;
• Quantitative revolution and locational analysis;
• Radical, behavioral, human, and welfare approaches;
• Languages, religions, and secularisation;
• Cultural regions of the world;
• Human development index.

2. Economic Geography for Geography Optional Syllabus:

• World economic development: measurement and problems;
• World resources and their distribution;
• Energy crisis;
• The limits to growth;
• World agriculture: a typology of agricultural regions;
• Agricultural inputs and productivity;
• Food and nutrition problems;
• Food security;
• Famine: causes, effects, and remedies;
• World industries: location patterns and problems;
• Patterns of world trade.

3. Population and Settlement Geography for Geography Syllabus:

• Growth and distribution of world population;
• Demographic attributes;
• Causes and consequences of migration;
• Concepts of the over-under-and optimum population;
• Population theories, world population problems, and policies, Social well-being, and quality of life;
• The population as social capital.
• Types and patterns of rural settlements;
• Environmental issues in rural settlements;
• Hierarchy of urban settlements;
• Urban morphology;
• Concept of primate city and rank-size rule;
• Functional classification of towns;
• Sphere of urban influence;
• Rural-urban fringe;
• Satellite towns;
• Problems and remedies of urbanization;
• Sustainable development of cities.

4. Regional Planning for Geography Syllabus:

• Concept of a region;
• Types of regions and methods of regionalization;
• Growth centers and growth poles;
• Regional imbalances;
• Regional development strategies;
• Environmental issues in regional planning;
• Planning for sustainable development.

5. Models, Theories, and Laws in Human Geography for Geography Syllabus:

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

PAPER-II: GEOGRAPHY OF INDIA

1. physical setting for geography optional syllabus:.

• Space relationship of India with neighboring countries;
• Structure and relief;
• Drainage system and watersheds;
• Physiographic regions;
• Mechanism of Indian monsoons and rainfall patterns;
• Tropical cyclones and western disturbances;
• Floods and droughts;
• Climatic regions;
• Natural vegetation,
• Soil types and their distributions.

2. Resources for Geography Syllabus:

• Land, surface and groundwater, energy, minerals, biotic and marine resources, Forest and wildlife resources and their conservation;
• Energy crisis.

3. Agriculture for Geography Syllabus:

• Infrastructure: irrigation, seeds, fertilizers, power;
• Institutional factors; landholdings, land tenure, and land reforms;
• Cropping pattern, agricultural productivity, agricultural intensity, crop combination, land capability;
• Agro and social-forestry;
• Green revolution and its socio-economic and ecological implications;
• Significance of dry farming;
• Livestock resources and white revolution;
• Aqua-culture;
• Sericulture, Agriculture, and poultry;
• Agricultural regionalization;
• Agro-climatic zones;
• Agro-ecological regions.

4. Industry for Geography Optional Syllabus:

• Evolution of industries;
• Locational factors of cotton, jute, textile, iron and steel, aluminum, fertilizer, paper, chemical and pharmaceutical, automobile, cottage, and ago-based industries;
• Industrial houses and complexes including public sector underkings;
• Industrial regionalization;
• New industrial policy;
• Multinationals and liberalization;
• Special Economic Zones;
• Tourism including ecotourism.

5. Transport, Communication, and Trade for Geography Syllabus:

• Road, railway, waterway, airway, and pipeline networks and their complementary roles in regional development;
• The growing importance of ports on national and foreign trade;
• Trade balance;
• Trade Policy;
• Export processing zones;
• Developments in communication and information technology and their impacts on economy and society;
• Indian space programme.

6. Cultural Setting for Geography Syllabus:

• Historical Perspective of Indian Society;
• Racial linguistic and ethnic diversities;
• Religious minorities;
• Major tribes, tribal areas, and their problems;
• Cultural regions;
• Growth, distribution, and density of population;
• Demographic attributes : sex-ratio, age structure, literacy rate, workforce, dependency ratio, longevity;
• Migration (inter-regional, intraregional, and international) and associated problems;
• Population problems and policies;
• Health indicators.

7. Settlements for Geography Syllabus:

• Types, patterns, and morphology of rural settlements;
• Urban developments;
• Morphology of Indian cities;
• Functional classification of Indian cities;
• Conurbations and metropolitan regions;
• Urban sprawl;
• Slums and associated problems;
• Town planning;
• Problems of urbanization and remedies.

8. Regional Development and Planning for Geography Syllabus:

• Experience in regional planning in India;
• Five Year Plans;
• Integrated rural development programs;
• Panchayati Raj and decentralized planning;
• Command area development;
• Watershed management;
• Planning for the backward area, desert, drought-prone, hill tribal area development;
• Multi-level planning;
• Regional planning and development of island territories.

9. Political Aspects for Geography:

• Geographical basis of Indian federalism;
• State reorganization;
• The emergence of new states;
• Regional consciousness and inter-state issues;
• The international boundary of India and related issues;
• Cross-border terrorism;
• India’s role in world affairs;
• Geopolitics of South Asia and the Indian Ocean realm.

10. Contemporary Issues for Geography Syllabus:

• Ecological issues : Environmental hazards: landslides, earthquakes, Tsunamis, floods and droughts, epidemics;
• Issues related to environmental pollution;
• Changes in patterns of land use;
• Principles of environmental impact assessment and environmental management;
• Population explosion and food security;
• Environmental degradation;
• Deforestation, desertification and soil erosion;
• Problems of agrarian and industrial unrest;
• Regional disparities in economic development;
• Concept of sustainable growth and development;
• Environmental awareness;
• Linkage of rivers;
• Globalization and the Indian economy.

NOTE : Candidates will be required to answer one compulsory map question pertinent to subjects covered by this paper.

To download the complete UPSC Geography Optional Syllabus and Explanation for UPSC Mains 2021-22: Click here

UPSC Geography Exam Pattern 2023

UPSC Recruitment is based on three stages i.e., Prelim Exam, Mains Exam, and an Interview. The candidates get to choose their optional subject for Paper VI & VII.

Here are the details about the UPSC Geography exam pattern for IAS Mains for UPSC 2023-24:

• There will be two papers for the Geography Optional Subject.
• Each paper would comprise 250 marks, which makes it 500 marks in total.
• There is no negative marking.
• There are 9 papers total in the UPSC Mains Exam.
• Each paper would have objective answer type questions

Downlaod Geography Optional Syllabus PDF  

Click here: to get all the UPSC Previous Year Question Papers of Geography Optional from 2013 to 2020 .

Click here: to get all the information on Which books to refer to for Geography Optional in UPSC IAS Examination 2021-22.

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[ GENERAL STUDIES PAPER – 3 ] : UPSC MAINS CIVIL SERVICES IAS EXAM 2021 QUESTION PAPER

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UPSC MAINS GENERAL STUDIES PAPER – 3 MAINS 2021

GENERAL STUDIES

Q1. Explain the difference between computing methodology of India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) before the year 2015 and after the year 2015. (Answer in 150 words)

Q2. Distinguish between Capital Budget and Revenue Budget. Explain the components of both these Budgets. (Answer in 150 words)

Q3. How did land reforms in some parts of the country help to improve the socio-economic conditions of marginal and small farmers ? (Answer in 150 words)

Q4. How and to what extent would micro-irrigation help in solving India’s water crisis ? (Answer in 150 words)

Q5. How is S-400 air defence system technically superior to any other system presently available in the world? (Answer in 150 words)

Q6. Explain the purpose of the Green Grid Initiative launched at World Leaders Summit of the COP26 UN Climate Change Conference in Glasgow in November, 2021. When was this idea first floated in the International Solar Alliance (ISA) ? (Answer in 150 words)

Q7. Describe the key points of the revised Global Air Quality Guidelines (AQGs) recently released by the World Health Organisation (WHO). How are these different from its last update in 2005? What changes in India’s National Clean Air Programme are required to achieve these revised standards ? (Answer in 150 words)

Q8. Discuss about the vulnerability of India to earthquake related hazards. Give examples including the salient features of major disasters caused by earthquakes in different parts of India during the last three decades. (Answer in 150 words)

Q9. Discuss how emerging technologies and globalisation contribute to money laundering. Elaborate measures to tackle the problem of money laundering both at national and international levels. (Answer in 150 words)

Q10 . Keeping in view India’s internal security, analyse the impact of cross-border cyber attacks. Also discuss defensive measures against these sophisticated attacks. (Answer in 150 words)

Q11. Do you agree that the Indian economy has recently experienced V- shapes recovery? Give reasons in support of your answer. (Answer in 250 words)

Q12. “Investment in infrastructure is essential for more rapid and inclusive economic growth. ”Discuss in the light of India’s experience. (Answer in 250 words)

Q13. What are the salient features of the National Food Security Act, 2013 ? How has the Food Security Bill helped in eliminating hunger and malnutrition in India?(Answer in 250 words)

Q14. What are the present challenges before crop diversification? How do emerging technologies provide an opportunity for crop diversification? (Answer in 250 words)

Q15. What are the research and developmental achievements in applied biotechnology/? How will these achievements help to uplift the poorer sections of the society? (Answer in 250 words)

Q16. The Nobel Prize in Physics of 2014 was jointly awarded to Akasaki, Amano and Nakamura for the invention of Blue LEDs in 1990s. How has this invention impacted the everyday life of human beings ? (Answer in 250 words)

Q17. Describe the major outcomes of the 26 th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). What are the commitments made by India in this conference? (Answer in 250 words)

Q18. Describe the various causes and the effects of landslides. Mention the important components of the National Landslide Risk Management Strategy. (Answer in 250 words)

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23 Mar 2024: PIB Summary for UPSC

23 Mar 2024 PIB Download PDF Here

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Mobile-enabled Disaster Resilience through Cell Broadcast Emergency Alerting

Syllabus: GS-3, Science and Technology

Prelims: Mobile-enabled Disaster Resilience through Cell Broadcast Emergency Alerting

• C-DOT’s project “Mobile-enabled Disaster Resilience through Cell Broadcast Emergency Alerting” qualifies for the next round of UN’s World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) prizes 2024.
• Project shortlisted under the “Benefits in all aspects of life – E-environment” category.
• WSIS focuses on leveraging ICTs for societal development and bridging the digital divide.

Background of WSIS

• Series of UN conferences co-hosted by ITU and Swiss Confederation.
• Aims to promote ICTs for social and economic development.
• Seeks to bridge digital divide through inclusive approaches.

C-DOT’s Project Overview

• Developed by Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT), a premier Telecom R&D center.
• “Mobile-enabled Disaster Resilience through Cell Broadcast Emergency Alerting” system.
• Utilizes cellular networks to deliver critical emergency information to mobile phones.
• Provides real-time alerts in disaster situations and other use cases like government directives, law and order, defense, etc.

Significance

• Recognition by WSIS underscores the impact of ICT-based solutions on societal resilience.
• C-DOT’s project contributes to disaster management and public safety.
• Indigenous development reflects India’s capabilities in technology innovation.
• Alignment with sustainable development goals, particularly in enhancing disaster preparedness and response

2. OP SANKALP

Syllabus: GS-2, International relations

Prelims: OP SANKALP

• Indian Navy’s ongoing maritime security operations, known as ‘Op Sankalp,’ have been active from 14th December 2023 to 23rd March 2024.
• The Indian Navy intensified its operations in response to the Israel-Hamas conflict, enhancing its scope and re-orienting its efforts.

Scope of Operations

Response to incidents

• Proactive actions taken during the hijacking of the Malta Flagged Bulk Carrier MV Ruen on 14th December 2023.
• Responded to a total of 18 incidents during the 100-day period.

Areas of Operation

• Maritime security operations conducted in the Gulf of Aden, Arabian Sea, and off the East Coast of Somalia.
• Deployment of naval ships, aircraft, and Special Forces to address threats in these areas.

Achievements

• Deployment of over 5000 personnel at sea and over 450 ship days with more than 21 ships deployed.
• Conducted 900 hours of flying by maritime surveillance aircraft.
• Saved over 110 lives, escorted 15 lakh tons of critical commodities, and seized over 3000 kgs of narcotics.
• The Indian Navy played a pivotal role as the ‘First Responder’ and ‘Preferred Security Partner’ in the Indian Ocean Region.
• Demonstrated capability in addressing non-traditional threats and ensuring maritime security.
• Contributions underscored by the successful actions against the hijacking of MV Ruen.
• Information Fusion Centre – Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) played a crucial role in enabling information exchange

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