The UPSC CSE Mains 2021 featured a crucial component in Paper 1 – the Essay Paper. This section is designed to assess the candidate’s ability to articulate thoughts coherently, critically analyze diverse topics, and present a balanced perspective. The essay paper comprised two sections, each offering a choice of four essay topics. Candidates were required to choose one topic from each section and write two essays within the given time frame. The topics spanned a wide array of subjects, encompassing social, political, economic, and philosophical themes. As is customary, candidates were expected to exhibit a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter, offering insightful perspectives while maintaining clarity and conciseness in their expression. The UPSC CSE Mains 2021 Essay Paper thus demanded a synthesis of knowledge, analytical prowess, and effective communication skills, challenging aspirants to showcase their intellectual depth and ability to engage with multifaceted issues.
UPSC CSE Mains 2021 was conducted on 7th January. Below is the question paper.
Instructions:
Write TWO Essays, choosing ONE from each of the Sections A and B, in about 1000-1200 Words each. (125×2 = 250)
Section A – UPSC Essay 2021
1. The process of self-discovery has now been technologically outsourced.
2. Your perception of me is a reflection of you; my reaction to you is an awareness of me.
3. Philosophy of wantlessness is Utopian, while materialism is a chimera.
4. The real is rational and the rational is real.
Section B – UPSC Essay 2021
5. Hand that rocks the cradle rule the world.
6. What is research, but a blind date with knowledge!
7. History repeats itself first as a tragedy, second as a farce.
8. There are better practices to “best practices”.
FAQs on UPSC Essay 2021
Q: What is the format of the UPSC Essay 2021 examination?
A: The UPSC CSE Mains 2021 examination consists of nine papers, out of which seven are descriptive essay-type papers and two are qualifying in nature. The subjects include Essay, General Studies (I to IV), Optional Paper I, and Optional Paper II. The qualifying papers are English Language and Indian Language.
Q: What is the duration of the UPSC Essay 2021 examination?
A: The duration of each essay-type paper in UPSC CSE Mains 2021 is 3 hours. However, the qualifying papers (English and Indian Language) are of 2 hours each. The examination is conducted over a period of five to seven days, depending on the specific schedule released by the UPSC.
Q: How are the marks allocated in UPSC Essay 2021?
A: The total marks for the UPSC CSE Mains 2021 examination are 1750, including 250 marks for the qualifying papers (English and Indian Language) and 1750 marks for the essay-type papers. The Optional Papers (I and II) carry 250 marks each, and the General Studies papers carry varying marks, with General Studies Paper IV being of a qualifying nature.
Q: Is there a negative marking in UPSC Essay 2021?
A: No, there is no negative marking in the UPSC CSE Mains 2021 examination. Unlike the Preliminary examination, where there is a penalty for incorrect answers, the main examination is evaluated only based on what the candidate has written in the answer booklets.
Q: What are the eligibility criteria for appearing in UPSC CSE Mains 2021?
A: To appear in the UPSC CSE Mains 2021, a candidate must have qualified in the Preliminary examination, which consists of two papers – General Studies Paper I and General Studies Paper II (CSAT). Additionally, candidates need to fill out the Detailed Application Form (DAF) for the Mains examination and meet the prescribed age and educational qualifications as specified by the UPSC.
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