Subject-wise Disaster Management Questions in UPSC Mains (2023 – 2013)

Subject-wise disaster management questions have become a prominent fixture in the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Mains examinations over the past decade, spanning from 2013 to 2023. With the increasing frequency and severity of natural and man-made disasters globally, the UPSC has recognized the importance of assessing candidates’ understanding of disaster management across various subjects. From geography and environmental studies to governance and public administration, these questions not only gauge candidates’ theoretical knowledge but also their ability to apply it to real-world scenarios. Aspirants are tasked with demonstrating a comprehensive grasp of disaster risk reduction strategies, emergency response protocols, and the socio-economic impacts of disasters. In navigating these inquiries, candidates showcase their analytical skills and capacity for critical thinking, vital attributes for future civil servants tasked with mitigating the impact of disasters and safeguarding communities.

2023

1. Dam failures are always catastrophic, especially on the downstream side, resulting in a colossal loss of life and property. Analyse the various causes of dam failures. Give two examples of large dam failures.

2022

1. Explain the mechanism and occurrence of cloudburst in the context of the Indian subcontinent. Discuss two recent examples.

2021

1. 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.
2. Describe the various causes and the effects of landslides. Mention the important components of the National Landslide Risk Management Strategy.

2020

1. Discuss the recent measures initiated in disaster management by the Government of India departing from the earlier reactive approach.

2019

1. Vulnerability is an essential element for defining disaster impacts and its threat to people. How and in what ways can vulnerability to disasters be characterized? Discuss different types of vulnerability with reference to disasters.

2018

1. Describe various measures taken in India for Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) before and after signing ‘Sendai Framework for DRR (2015-2030)’. How is this framework different from ‘Hyogo Framework for Action, 2005’?

2017

1. In December 2004, tsunami brought havoc on 14 countries including India. Discuss the factors responsible for the occurrence of Tsunami and its effects on life and economy. In the light of guidelines of NDMA (2010) describe the mechanisms for preparedness to reduce the risk during such events.

2016

1. The frequency of urban floods due to high intensity rainfall is increasing over the years. Discussing the reasons for urban floods, highlight the mechanisms for preparedness to reduce the risk during such events.
2. The frequency of earthquakes appears to have increased in the Indian subcontinent. However, India’s preparedness for mitigating their impact has significant gaps. Discuss various aspects.

2014

1. Drought has been recognized as a disaster in view of its spatial expanse, temporal duration, slow onset, and lasting effects on vulnerable sections. With a focus on the September 2010 guidelines from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), discuss the mechanisms for preparedness to deal with likely El Nino and La Nina fallouts in India.

2013

1. How important are vulnerability and risk assessment for pre-disaster management. As an administrator, what are key areas that you would focus on in disaster management.

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