The UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) Main Examination is a highly competitive and rigorous assessment that aspirants undertake to pursue a career in the Indian Civil Services. Among the various optional subjects offered, Anthropology stands out as a unique and multidisciplinary field that delves into the study of human societies, cultures, and biological evolution. The Anthropology optional paper in the UPSC Main Examination not only demands a profound understanding of human diversity but also requires candidates to critically analyze and apply anthropological concepts to contemporary issues. By exploring previous year’s papers on the Anthropology optional, aspirants gain valuable insights into the examination pattern, question types, and the depth of knowledge expected. This introduction sets the stage for a comprehensive exploration of the challenges and opportunities presented by the UPSC Main Examination’s Anthropology optional through the lens of previous year’s papers.
Question Paper Specific Instructions
- Please read each of the following instructions carefully before attempting questions :
- There are EIGHT questions divided in two SECTIONS and printed both in HINDI and in ENGLISH.
- The candidate has to attempt FIVE questions in all.
- Questions no. 1 and 5 are compulsory and out of the remaining, THREE are to be attempted choosing at least ONE from each section.
- The number of marks carried by a question/part is indicated 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 a medium other than the authorized one.
- Word limit in questions, wherever specified, should be adhered to.
- Illustrate your answers with suitable sketches, maps, and diagrams. These shall be drawn in the space provided for answering the question itself.
- Attempts of questions shall be counted in chronological order. Unless struck off, the attempt of a question shall be counted even if attempted partly. Any page or portion of the page left blank in the answer book must be clearly struck off.
Anthropology Optional Question Paper-1 (2013)
SECTION – A
1. Write notes on the following in about 150 words each: 10×5=50 marks
- How do you situate Anthropology in Social Sciences?
- Various types of descent
- Totemism
- Linguistic Anthropology
- Carbon-14 method of dating
Q.2: 20-15-15 (250 words each)
(a) Why has the concept of Culture Relativism been so dear to Anthropologies?
(b) Bring out the distinguishing features of culture and civilization.
(c) Where do you situate ‘live-in relationship’ within the institution of marriage?
Q.3:
(a) Discuss the impact of globalization on tribal economy. 20m|350 words
(b) In what ways is Functionalism different from Structural Functionalism? 20m|350 words
(c) Differentiate between Economics and Economic Anthropology.10m|150 words
Q.4: 20-15-15 (250 words each)
(a) Discuss the impact of urbanization and feminist movement on family.
(b) Bring out the contribution of Turner and Geertz in symbolic and interpretive theories in Anthropology.
(c) How does taboo serve as a means of social control?
SECTION – B
5. Write notes on the following in about 150 words each: 10×5=50 marks
(a) Role of primatology in Anthropological studies.
(b) Differentiation between Child Growth and Development.
(c) Ageing and Senescene
(d) Twin method in human genetics
(e) Demographic transition
Q.6: 20-15-15 marks (250 words each)
(a) Give a broad outline of Patheolithic culture emphasizing upon its tool technology.
(b) What do you understand by ‘Genetic Load’ in a population? How is it measured and what are the important factors that can influence it?
(c) Justify “Though human growth is under tight genetic control but it is influenced by various environmental factors.”
Q.7: 20-15-15 marks (250 words each)
(a) Discuss the relevance of Case Study method of data collection.
(b) Elaborate upon major human adaptations to heat and cold.
(c) What are genetic markers and what is their usefulness? Why are blood groups considered as good genetic markers?Illustrate with examples.
Q.8: 20-15-15 marks (250 words each)
(a) Discuss how Neo-Darwinism integrated the fields of Genetics and Evolution.
(b) What is meant by epidemiological transition? Elaborate upon its causes and consequences highlighting major health problems of our adult population today.
(c) Differentiate between Race and Racism.What are three major races of the world ?Give important biological criteria used frequently for such a classification.
Anthropology Optional Question Paper-2 (2013)
SECTION – A
1. Write notes on the following in about 150 words each: 10×5=50 marks
(a) Sufi tradition of Islam
(b) Threat to tribal languages in India.
(c) Examine the debates related to Ramapithecus.
(d) Discuss how Louis Dumont explained caste system.
(e) Discuss salient features of mesolithic culture in India with special reference to western India.
Q2: 15-15-20 marks
(a) Examine Nature-man spirit complex as an ecological concept.
(b) Indian Paleolithic culture can neither be conceived chronologically homogeneous nor as a unfiorm cultural phase. Discuss.
(c) Discuss the significance of study of religious centres to the understanding of Indian civilization.
Q3: 25+25marks
(a) Examine the anthropological contributions dealing with tribes and Indian civilization.
(b) What is Jajmani system? Examine the views on Jajmani system as an egalitarian as well as exploitative system.Give reasons for its decline.
Q4: 15-15-20 (250 words)
(a) Indian farmers are not slow to react to economic opportunities.-Discuss this statement.
(b) Examine the criticisms on the concept of dominant caste.
(c) Discuss the contributions of H.D.Sankalia to prehistoric anthropology in India.
SECTION – B
5. Write notes on the following in about 150 words each: 10×5=50 marks
(a) Government Action towards Left Wing Extremism.
(b) Role of Gramasabha under PESA.
(c) Impacts of sanctuaries and national parks on tribal populations.
(d) Linguistic classification of Indian tribes.
(e) Ethnic movements in India.
Q6: 20-15-15 marks
(a) The Fifth Schedule and Sixth Schedule of the constitution are built on the foundations laid by the colonial Government. discuss.
(b) Discuss the significance of cultural and administrative factors in tribal development.
(c) Examine the impacts of green revolution on rural poor.
Q7: 20-15-15 marks
(a) Discuss the criticism levelled against anthropology in the context of ‘Isolation,and assimilation debate’on tribal populations.
(b) Assess the contributions of early 20th century ethnographic tradition to Indian anthropology.
(c) Discuss how British policies dispossessed tribals of their communal properties and agricultural lands.
Q8: 20-15-15 marks
(a) Discuss the alternatives for shifting cultivators in the context of ecological costs and humanistic concerns.
(b) Examine the impact of non-tribal contact on socio-cultural institutions of tribal people with suitable examples.
(c) Discuss the Social disabilities suffered by scheduled castes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How can I effectively prepare for UPSC Mains Anthropology Optional using previous year papers?
A1: Utilizing UPSC Mains Anthropology Optional previous year papers is a strategic approach. Begin by thoroughly analyzing the question patterns and understanding the weightage of different topics. Identify recurring themes and focus on strengthening your knowledge in those areas. Practice writing answers within the stipulated time to enhance your time management skills and improve the quality of your responses.
Q2: Are there any specific trends in the UPSC Mains Anthropology Optional papers over the years?
A2: Yes, there are discernible trends in the UPSC Mains Anthropology Optional papers. The questions often emphasize a holistic understanding of anthropological concepts, linking theoretical knowledge with practical application. Additionally, recent papers tend to include more interdisciplinary questions, requiring candidates to integrate anthropological perspectives with contemporary issues.
Q3: How can I enhance my answer writing skills for Anthropology Optional based on previous year papers?
A3: Answer writing skills are crucial for Anthropology Optional in UPSC Mains. Practice is key. Start by writing answers to previous year questions under exam conditions. Focus on clarity, structure, and logical flow. Pay attention to the presentation, use diagrams and case studies where relevant. Regularly evaluate and seek feedback to continually improve your writing style.
Q4: Are there any specific topics within Anthropology Optional that are frequently asked in UPSC Mains papers?
A4: While the range of topics is vast, certain areas are consistently featured in UPSC Mains Anthropology Optional papers. These include socio-cultural aspects, human evolution, tribal studies, and applied anthropology. Prioritize these areas during your preparation, ensuring a thorough understanding of the underlying concepts and their practical implications.
Q5: How should I incorporate the study of previous year papers into my overall Anthropology Optional preparation strategy?
A5: Integrating the study of previous year papers is crucial for effective preparation. Begin by categorizing questions based on topics and sub-topics. Devote more time to areas with higher question frequency. Understand the evolution of questions over the years to anticipate potential areas of focus. Regularly revise and update your knowledge in alignment with the changing trends observed in previous papers.
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