Embarking on the challenging journey of the UPSC Main examination with Political Science and International Relations as your optional subject is a formidable task that demands both intellectual acumen and a profound understanding of global affairs. The optional paper in Political Science and International Relations (PSIR) not only tests candidates on their analytical and critical thinking skills but also evaluates their comprehensive grasp of political theories, governance structures, and international dynamics. Aspirants who opt for this subject delve into the intricate realms of political philosophy, comparative politics, and international relations, navigating through a diverse range of topics that include but are not limited to political ideologies, governance models, and the complex dynamics of global diplomacy. In this blog series, we will delve into the previous year papers of the UPSC Main examination for Political Science and International Relations, providing insights, analysis, and strategies to help aspirants navigate the challenges and excel in this crucial segment of the civil services examination.
As we explore the previous year papers for Political Science and International Relations, we will unravel the evolving trends in the UPSC examination, shedding light on the key themes and concepts that have been recurrent over the years. Analyzing these papers will not only serve as a valuable tool for understanding the exam pattern but will also assist aspirants in formulating a focused and effective preparation strategy. Whether you are a seasoned UPSC aspirant or someone just starting the journey, this blog series aims to be a comprehensive guide, offering a nuanced perspective on the intricacies of the Political Science and International Relations optional paper, with the ultimate goal of helping you achieve success in the UPSC Main examination.
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.
PSIR Optional Question Paper-1 (2013)
SECTION – A
1. Comment on the following in about 150 words each: 10×5=50 marks
(a) “Personal is political”
(b) “Original position”
(c) “Covenants without swords are but words, and of no strength to secure a man at all.”
(d) Sri Aurobindo’s “idea of freedom”
(e) Sri Ahmed Khan as modernized
2. (a) Discuss the communitarian critique of liberalism. 20
(b) Examine Ambedkar’s critique of Marxism. 15
(c) Explain, as per Gramsci, the distinction between hegemony and domination. 15
3. (a) Analyze the relationship between natural rights and human rights. 20
(b) Examine the significance of Dharma in Ancient Indian political thought. 15
(c) Discuss in what sense Max’s understanding of state can be considered as materialistic. 15
4. (a) Explain Berlin’s notion of value pluralism. 20
(b) Analyse,as per Kautilya,the Saptanga theory of the state. 15
(c) Comment on the Assertion of Laslett that Filmer and not Hobbes was the main antagonist of Locke. 15
SECTION – B
5. Comment on the following in approximately 150 words each, 10 marks each
(a) Marxist understanding of India’s freedom movement
(b) Significance of the Preamble
(c) Decline of Indian Parliament
(d) Gandhian perspective of development and its contemporary relevance.
(e) Compare and contrast Chipko Movement with Narmada Bachao Andolan.
6. (a) Explain the phenomenon of ethnic politics in India in recent times.
(b) Analyse the significance of Article 32 of the Indian Constitution.
(c) Examine the role of Supreme Court as the final interpreter of the Indian Constitution.
7. (a) “Cooperative federalism produces a strong central, or general government, yet it does not necessarily result in weak provincial governments that are largely administrative agencies for central policies. Indian federation has demonstrated this.”(Granville Austin) Examine the uniqueness of Indian federalism in the light of the above statement. 20m
(b) Explain to what extent the concept of “one-party dominance”(W.H.Morris-Jones)model is relevant in Indian policy today. 20m
(c) Analyze the position of the Prime Minister of India in a coalition regime. 20m
8. (a) Examine the significance of the verdicts of the Supreme Court in the Golaknath and Keshavananda Bharati cases for an understanding of the scope of Article 368 in regard to Fundamental Rights.
(b) Point out and comment on the historic importance of the document “Towards Equality(1974),for women’s movement in India.”
(c) Examine the changing structure of Panchayati Raj instituions with special reference to the 73rd Constituiton Amendment Act.
PSIR Optional Question Paper-2 (2013)
Section – A
1. Comment on the following in about 150 words each: 10×5=50 marks
(a) Identify the elements of change in India’s foreign policy.
(b) Sketch the leadership role of India in WTO negotiations.
(c) Examine the recent developments in India-Japan relationship.
(d) Bring out the objectives of India seeking permanent seat in Security Council
(e) Is India’s Nuclear doctrine a viable one?
2. (a) Compare and contrast social movements in advanced industrial and developing societies.
(b) Give reasons for Regionalism of world politics.
(c) Compare and Contrast Sin-India approaches to global Environmental concerns.
3. (a) What roles do norms, taboos and epistemic play in the context of nuclear proliferation?
(b) Substitantiate APEC as a regional economic and trade arrangement.
(c) Identify the major changes in the International Political economy in post Cold War.
4. (a) Is the rise of social movement a sign of opening up of popular space in political process or decline of representative politics?Examine.
(b) Highlight the major features of Non-alignment 2.0 document
(c) Identify the role and place of Gender in the global economy.
SECTION – B
5. Answer the following questions in about 150 words each x 10 marks each
(a) Identify the challenges to American hegemony in post Soviet world.
(b) What does the pace of nuclear proliferation in post Cold War suggest?
(c) State the place of Gender Justice in global agenda.
(d) “Global commons belong to global society and requires global attention”.Comment.
(e) Sketch the journey of global political economy from Washington consensus to the present.
6. (a) Examine major principles of State centric world views.
(b) How does Marxist approcah explain contemporary International Relations?
(c) ‘National Interests are Dynamic’. Identify the dynamic nature of National Interests in the contemporary world polities with suitable examples.
7. (a) ‘The economic content of India’s foreign trade is increasingly growing’. Substantiate the statement with economic diplomatic engagements of India in the last decade.
(b) Write a note on Intellectual precursors of Realism.
(c) ‘Building ‘peace by pieces’ is the basis of functionalism’. Elaborate.
8. (a) ‘Transnational actors have become driving forces of global politics’. Elaborate.
(b) ‘A minimal State ensures maximum of Individual Liberty’. Examine the concept of Minimal State.
(c) ‘Collective Security and Collective Defense are the institutional and State mechanism to sustain the domination of powers that be in International politics’. Elaborate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Q: Why is choosing Political Science and International Relations as an optional subject for UPSC Main examination a strategic decision?
A: Political Science and International Relations provide a holistic understanding of political systems and global affairs. Opting for this subject enhances analytical skills and equips candidates to interpret contemporary issues through the lens of political theories, making it a strategic choice for those aspiring to excel in the UPSC Main examination.
2. Q: How can analyzing previous year papers in Political Science and International Relations benefit UPSC aspirants?
A: Analyzing previous year papers offers insights into the recurring themes, question patterns, and emphasis areas of the UPSC examination. By studying these papers, aspirants can tailor their preparation to align with the evolving trends, ensuring a more targeted and effective approach to mastering the Political Science and International Relations optional subject.
3. Q: What are the key topics within Political Science and International Relations that aspirants should prioritize during their preparation?
A: While the syllabus is extensive, focusing on core areas such as political theory, governance, and international relations is crucial. Understanding the nuances of political ideologies, comparative politics, and global diplomatic dynamics is essential for success in the UPSC Main examination.
4. Q: How can aspirants balance theoretical knowledge and current affairs in Political Science and International Relations preparation?
A: Integrating current affairs with theoretical concepts is vital. Aspirants should stay updated on global events, connecting them with relevant theories and models. This approach not only enriches answers but also demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of the subject.
5. Q: Are there specific writing strategies for the Political Science and International Relations optional paper in UPSC Mains?
A: Yes, candidates should focus on clarity, conciseness, and coherence in their answers. Practice answer writing to convey complex ideas succinctly. Additionally, incorporating real-world examples and case studies enhances the depth of responses, showcasing a nuanced understanding of the subject.
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