The UPSC Mains 2023 GS Solved Paper is a pivotal component of the Civil Services Examination, serving as a comprehensive assessment of candidates’ knowledge in diverse fields such as history, geography, Indian society, and world affairs. This examination is a significant milestone for aspirants aiming to join the prestigious Indian Civil Services and contribute to the nation’s governance and development. The GS paper is designed to evaluate candidates’ analytical abilities, conceptual understanding, and capacity to critically analyze historical events and contemporary issues. As aspirants face the challenges posed by this examination, the UPSC GS question paper serves as a litmus test, demanding a thorough grasp of both the national and global dimensions of various subjects. In the quest for excellence, candidates navigate through a spectrum of topics that encapsulate the multifaceted nature of the world we live in, making the GS question paper a key determinant in shaping the future cadre of civil servants in India.
प्रश्न-पत्र सम्बन्धी विशेष अनुदेश
- कृपया प्रश्नों के उत्तर देने से पूर्व निम्नलिखित प्रत्येक अनुदेश को ध्यानपूर्वक पढ़ें :
- कुल बीस प्रश्न दिए गए हैं जो हिन्दी और अंग्रेजी दोनों में छपे हैं।
- सभी प्रश्न अनिवार्य हैं।
- प्रत्येक प्रश्न / भाग के लिए नियत अंक उसके सामने दिए गए हैं।
- प्रश्नों के उत्तर उसी माध्यम में लिखे जाने चाहिए, जिसका उल्लेख आपके प्रवेश पत्र में किया गया है, और इस माध्यम का स्पष्ट उल्लेख प्रश्न – सह उत्तर (क्यू.सी.ए.) पुस्तिका के मुख पृष्ठ पर निर्दिष्ट स्थान पर किया जाना चाहिए । उल्लिखित माध्यम के अतिरिक्त अन्य किसी माध्यम में लिखे गए उत्तर पर कोई अंक नहीं मिलेंगे ।
- प्रश्न संख्या 1 से 10 तक का उत्तर 150 शब्दों में तथा प्रश्न संख्या 11 से 20 तक का उत्तर 250 शब्दों में दीजिए ।
- प्रश्नों में इंगित शब्द सीमा को ध्यान में रखिए ।
- प्रश्न -सह- उत्तर पुस्तिका में खाली छोड़े गए कोई पृष्ठ अथवा पृष्ठ के भाग को पूर्णतः काट दीजिए ।
QUESTION PAPER SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS
- Please read each of the following instructions carefully before attempting questions.
- There are TWENTY questions printed both in HINDI and in ENGLISH.
- All questions are compulsory.
- 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.
- Answers to Questions No. 1 to 10 should be in 150 words, whereas answers to Questions
- No. 11 to 20 should be in 250 words.
- Keep the word limit indicated in the questions in mind.
- Any page or portion of the page left blank in the Question-cum-Answer Booklet must be struck off
UPSC MAINS GS Paper 1 – 2023
1. प्राचीन भारत के विकास की दिशा में भौगोलिक कारकों की भूमिका को स्पष्ट कीजिए। (उत्तर 150 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Explain the role of geographical factors in the development of Ancient India. (Answer in 150 words ) 10
2. महात्मा गाँधी और रवीन्द्रनाथ टैगोर में शिक्षा और राष्ट्रवाद के प्रति सोच में क्या अंतर था ? (उत्तर 150 शब्दों में दीजिए)
What was the difference between Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore in their approach towards education and nationalism? (Answer in 150 words) 10
3. विश्व के विभिन्न देशों में रेलवे के आगमन से होने वाले सामाजिक-आर्थिक प्रभावों को उजागर कीजिए। (उत्तर 150 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Bring out the socio-economic effects of the introduction of railways in different countries of the world. (Answer in 150 words) 10
4. उष्णकटिबंधीय देशों में खाद्य सुरक्षा पर जलवायु परिवर्तन के परिणामों की विवेचना कीजिए। (उत्तर 150 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Discuss the consequences of climate change on the food security in tropical countries. (Answer in 150 words) 10
5. आज विश्व ताजे जल के संसाधनों की उपलब्धता और पहुँच के संकट से क्यों जूझ रहा है? (उत्तर 150 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Why is the world today confronted with a crisis of availability of and access to freshwater resources? (Answer in 150 words) 10
6, फियॉर्ड कैसे बनते हैं? वे दुनिया के कुछ सबसे सुरम्य क्षेत्रों का निर्माण क्यों करते हैं? (उत्तर 150 शब्दों में दीजिए)
How are the fjords formed? Why do they constitute some of the most picturesque areas of the world? (Answer in 150 words ) 10
7. दक्षिण-पश्चिम मानसून भोजपुर क्षेत्र में ‘पुरवैया’ (पूर्वी) क्यों कहलाता है? इस दिशापरक मौसमी पवन प्रणाली ने क्षेत्र के सांस्कृतिक लोकाचार को कैसे प्रभावित किया है? (उत्तर 150 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Why is the South-West Monsoon called ‘Purvaiya’ (easterly) in Bhojpur Region? How has this directional seasonal wind system influenced the cultural ethos of the region? (Answer in 150 words) 10
8. क्या आप सोचते हैं कि, आधुनिक भारत में विवाह एक संस्कार के रूप में अपना मूल्य खोता जा रहा है? (उत्तर 150 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Do you think marriage as a sacrament is loosing its value in Modern India? (Answer in 150 words ) 10
9. भारतीय समाज में नवयुवतियों में आत्महत्या क्यों बढ़ रही है? स्पष्ट कीजिए। (उत्तर 150 शब्दों में दीजिए) Explain why suicide among young women is increasing in Indian society. (Answer in 150 words ) 10
10. बच्चे को दुलारने की जगह अब मोबाइल फोन ने ले ली है। बच्चों के समाजीकरण पर इसके प्रभाव की चर्चा कीजिए। (उत्तर 150 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Child cuddling is now being replaced by mobile phones. Discuss its impact on the socialization of children. (Answer in 150 words) 10
11. वैदिक समाज और धर्म की मुख्य विशेषताएँ क्या हैं? क्या आप सोचते हैं कि उनमें से कुछ विशेषताएँ भारतीय समाज में अभी भी प्रचलित है? (उत्तर 250 शब्दों में दीजिए)
What are the main features of Vedic society and religion? Do you think some of the features are still prevailing in Indian society? (Answer in 250 words) 15
12. सल्तनत काल के दौरान किये गये बड़े तकनीकी बदलाव क्या थे? उन तकनीकी बदलावों ने भारतीय समाज को कैसे प्रभावित किया था? (उत्तर 250 शब्दों में दीजिए)
What were the major technological changes introduced during the Sultanate period? How did those technological changes influence the Indian society? (Answer in 250 words ) 15
13. भारत में औपनिवेशिक शासन ने आदिवासियों को कैसे प्रभावित किया और औपनिवेशिक उत्पीड़न के प्रति आदिवासी प्रतिक्रिया क्या थी? (उत्तर 250 शब्दों में दीजिए)
How did the colonial rule affect the tribals in India and what was the tribal response to the colonial oppression? (Answer in 250 words) 15
14. भारत की लंबी तटरेखीय संसाधन क्षमताओं पर टिप्पणी कीजिए और इन क्षेत्रों में प्राकृतिक खतरे की तैयारी की स्थिति पर प्रकाश डालिए । (उत्तर 250 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Comment on the resource potentials of the long coastline of India and highlight the status of natural hazard preparedness in these areas. (Answer in 250 words) 15
15. भारत में प्राकृतिक वनस्पति की विविधता के लिए उत्तरदायी कारकों को पहचानिए और उनकी विवेचना कीजिए। भारत के वर्षा वन क्षेत्रों में वन्यजीव अभयारण्यों के महत्त्व का आकलन कीजिए। (उत्तर 250 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Identify and discuss the factors responsible for diversity of natural vegetation in India. Assess the significance of wildlife sanctuaries in rain forest regions of India. (Answer in 250 words) 15
16. भारत में मानव विकास आर्थिक विकास के साथ कदमताल करने में विफल क्यों हुआ? (उत्तर 250 शब्दों में दीजिए) Why did human development fail to keep pace with economic development in India? (Answer in 250 words) 15
17. 1960 के दशक में शुद्ध खाद्य आयातक से, भारत विश्व में एक शुद्ध खाद्य निर्यातक के रूप में उभरा। कारण दीजिए । (उत्तर 250 शब्दों में दीजिए)
From being net food importer in 1960s, India has emerged as a net food exporter to the world. Provide reasons. (Answer in 250 words ) 15
18. क्या भारतीय महानगरों में शहरीकरण गरीबों को और भी अधिक पृथक्करण और/या हाशिए पर ले जाता है? (उत्तर 250 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Does urbanization lead to more segregation and/or marginalization of the poor in Indian metropolises? (Answer in 250 words) 15
19. भारत में जातीय अस्मिता गतिशील और स्थिर दोनों ही क्यों है? (उत्तर 250 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Why is caste identity in India both fluid and static? (Answer in 250 words ) 15
20. संजातीय पहचान एवं सांप्रदायिकता पर उत्तर-उदारवादी अर्थव्यवस्था के प्रभाव की विवेचना कीजिए। (उत्तर 250 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Discuss the impact of post-liberal economy on ethnic identity and communalism. (Answer in 250 words ) 15
UPSC MAINS GS Paper 2 – 2023
UPSC MAINS GS Paper 3 – 2023
6. Discuss several ways in which microorganisms can help in meeting the current fuel shortage.
UPSC MAINS GS Paper 4 – 2023
Q3: Given below are three quotations of great thinkers. What do each of the quotations convey to you in the present test?
(b): Differentiate ‘moral intuition” from ‘moral reasoning’ with suitable examples.
(b) Probity is sential for an effective system of governance and socio-economic development. Discuss
(b) Explain the term social capital. How does it enhance good governance?
Q7: You are working as an executive in a nationalized bank for several years. One day one of your close colleagues tells you that her father is suffering from heart disease and needs surgery to service. She also tells you that she has no insurance and the operation will cost about Rs 10 lakh. You are also aware of the fact that her husband and that she is from a lower middle class family. You are empathetic about her situation. However, apart from expressing your sympathy, you do not have the resources to fund her.
A few weeks later, you ask her about the well-being of her father and she informs you about his successful surgery and that he is recovering. She then confides in you that the bank manager was kind enough to facilitate the release of 10 lakhs from a dormant account of someone to pay for the operation with a promise that it should be confidential and be repaid at the earliest. She has already started paying it back and will continue to do so until it is all returned.
(a) What are the ethical issues involved?
(b) Evaluate the behavior of the bank manager from an ethical point of view.
(c) How would you react to the situation?
Q8: A landslide occurred in the middle of the night on 20th July. 2023 in a remote mountain hamlet, approximately 60 kilometers from Uttarkashi. The landslide was caused by torrential rains and has resulted in large-scale destruction of property and life. You, as District Magistrate of that area, have rushed to the spot with a team of doctors, NGOs, media and police along with numerous support staff to oversee the rescue operations.
A man came running to you with a request for urgent medical help for his pregnant wife who is in labour and in loosing blood. You directed your medal team to examine his wife. They return and convey to you that this woman needs blood transfusion immediately. Upon enquiry, you come to know that a few blood collection bags and blood group test kits are available in the ambulance accompanying your team. Few people of your team have already volunteered to donate blood.
Being a physician who has graduated from AIIMS, you know that blood for transfusion needs to be procured only through a recognized blood bank. Your team members are divided on this issue; some favour transfusing, while some others oppose it. The doctors in the team are ready to facilitate the delivery provided they are not penalised for transfusion. Now you are a dilemma. Your professional training emphasizes on prioritising service to humanity and saving lives of individuals.
(a) What are the ethical issues involved in this case?
(b) Evaluate the options available to you, being District Magistrate of the area.
Q9: At 9 pm on Saturday evening, Rashika, a Joint Secretary, was still engrossed in her work in her office. Her husband, Vikram, is an executive in an MNC and frequently out of town in connection with his work. Their two children aged 5 and 3 are looked after by their domestic helper. At 9:30 pm her superior, Mr. Suresh calls her and asks her to prepare a detailed note on an important matter to be discussed in a meeting in the Ministry. She realises that she will have to work on Sunday to finish the additional task given by her superior.
She reflects on how she had asked forward to the posting and had worked long hours for months to achieve it, he had kept the welfare of people uppermost in discharging her duties. She feels that she has not done enough Justice to her family and she has not fulfilled her duties in discharging ential social obligations. Even as recently as last month she had to leave her sick child in the nanny’s care as she had to work in the office. No, she feels that she must draw a line, beyond which her personal life should take precedence over her professional responsibilities. She thinks that there should be reasonable limits to the work ethics such as punctuality, hard work, dedication to duty and selfless service.
(a): Discuss the ethical issue involved in this case.
(b): Briefly describe at least four laws that have been enacted by the Government with respect to providing a healthy, safe and equitable working environment for women.
(c): Imagine you are in a similar situation. What suggestions would you make to mitigate such working conditions?
Q 10: Vinod is an honest and sincere IAS officer. Recently, he has taken over as Managing Director of the State Road Transport Corporation, his sixth transfer in the past three years. His peers acknowledge his vast knowledge affability and uprightness.
The Chairman of the State Road Transport Corporation is a powerful politician and is very close to the Chief Minister. Vinod comes to know about many alleged irregularities of the Corporation and the high-handedness of the Chairman in financial matters.
A Board Member of the Corporation belonging to the Opposition Party meets Vinod and hands over a few documents along with a video recording in which the Chairman appears to be demanding bribe for placing a huge order for the supply of QMR tyres. Vinod recollects the Chairman expediting the clearing of pending bills of QMR tyres.
Vinod confronts the Board Member as to why he is shying away from exposing the Chairman with the so-called solid proof he has with him. The members inform him that the Chairman refuses to yield to his threats. He adds that Vinod may earn recognition and public support if he himself exposes the Chairman. Further, he tells Vined that once his party comes to power, Vinod’s professional growth would be assured.
Vinod is aware that he may be penalised if he exposes the Chairman and may further be transferred to a distant place. He knows that Opposition Party stands a better chance of coming to power in the forthcoming elections. However, he also realises that the Board Member is trying to use him for his own political gains.
(a): As a conscientious civil servant, evaluate the options available to Vinod.
(b): In the light of the above case, comment upon the ethical issues that may arise due to the politicization of bureaucracy.
Q 11: You have just been appointed as Additional Director General of Central Public Works Department. The Chief Architect of your division, who is to retire in six months, in passionately working on a very important project, the successful completion of which would earn him a lasting reputation for the rest of his life.
A new lady architect. Seema, trained at Manchester School of Architecture, UK joined as Senior Architect in your division. During the briefing about the project, Seema made some suggestions which would not only add value to the project, but would also reduce completion time. This has made the Chief Architect insecure and he is constantly worried that all the credit will go to her. Subsequently, he adopted a passive and aggressive behaviour towards her and has become disrespectful to her. Seems felt it embarrassing as the Chief Architect left no chance of humiliating her. He would very often correct her in front of other colleagues and raise his voice while speaking to her. This continuous harassment has resulted in her losing confidence and self-esteem. She felt perpetually tensed, anxious and stressed. She appeared to be in awe of him since he has had a long tenure in the office and has vast experience in the area of her work.
You are aware of her outstanding academic credentials and careeer in her previous organizations. However, you fear that this harassment may result in compromising her much needed contribution in this important project and may adversely impact her emotional well-being. You have also come to know from her peers that she is contemplating tendering her resignation.
(a) What are the ethical issues involved in the above case?
(b) What are the option available to you in order to complete the project a wall as to retain Seema in the organization?
(c) What would be your response to Seema’s predicament? What measures would you institute to prevent each occurrence from happening in your organization?
Q 12: You hold a responsible position in a ministry in the government. One day in the morning you received a call from the school of your 11-year-old son that you are required to come and meet the Principal. You proceed to the school and find your son in the Principal’s office. The Principal informs you that your son had been found wandering aimlessly in the grounds during the time classes were in progress. The class teacher further informs you that your son has lately become a loner and did not respond to questions in the class, he had also been unable to perform well in the football trials held recently. You bring your son back from the school and in the evening, you along with your wife try to find out the reasons for your son’s changed behavior. After repeated cajoling, your son shares that some children had been making fun of him in the class as well as in the WhatsApp group of the students by calling him stunted, duh and a frog. He tells you the names of a few children who are the main culprits but pleads with you to let the matter rest.
After a few days, during a sporting event, where you and your wife have gone to watch your son play, one of your colleague’s son shows you a video in which students have caricatured your son. Further, he also points out to perpetrators who were sitting in the stands. You purposefully walk past them with your son and go home. Next day, you find on social media, a video denigrating you, your son and even your wife, stating that you engaged in physical bullying of children in the sports field. The video became viral on social media. Your friends and colleagues began calling you to find out the details. One of your juniors advised you to make a counter video giving the background and explaining that nothing had happened on the field. You, in turn posted a video which you have captured during the sporting event, identifying the likely perpetrators who were responsible for your son’s predicament. You have also narrated what has actually happened in the field and made attempts to bring out the adverse effects of the misuse of social media.
(a) Based on the above case study, discuss the ethical issues involved in the use of social media.
(b) Discuss the pros and cons of using social media by you to put across the facts to counter the fake propaganda against your family.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Discuss the impact of the Indian independence movement on the socio-economic fabric of the country.
Answer: The Indian independence movement, marked by various phases and leaders, had profound effects on the socioeconomic landscape of the nation. It led to the abolition of discriminatory practices, the establishment of democratic institutions, and economic policy changes. The movement’s emphasis on social justice and equality laid the foundation for a more inclusive society.
Q2: Evaluate the role of women in the nationalist movement and their contribution to India’s struggle for independence.
Answer: Women played a crucial role in the Indian independence movement, contributing in various capacities. From participating in protests and civil disobedience to leading social reforms, women like Sarojini Naidu and Annie Besant were instrumental. Their involvement not only challenged traditional gender roles but also paved the way for greater gender equality in post-independence India.
Q3: Analyze the impact of globalization on India’s economy and culture.
Answer: Globalization has significantly influenced India’s economy and culture. On the economic front, it has led to increased trade, foreign investments, and technological advancements. However, it has also resulted in income inequalities and cultural homogenization. The challenge lies in striking a balance that allows India to harness the benefits of globalization while preserving its cultural diversity and addressing socio-economic disparities.
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