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 (2014)
SECTION – A
1. Write notes on the following in about 150 words each: 10×5=50 marks
I. Double Descent
II. Genealogical Method
III. Major sub-divisions of Anthropology
IV. Ecological Anthropology
V. Field work tradition in Anthropology
Q2. Answer following (20 + 15 + 15 marks)
I. Critically examine the role of anthropology in Contemporary India. 15
II. Is culture unique to human beings? Critically examine. 15
III. Discuss the role of anthropology in the understanding of health and disease. What specific understanding is available with respect to infectious and non-infectious diseases? 20
Q3. Answer following (20 + 15 + 15 marks)
I. Discuss the nature of Law and Justice in simple societies citing suitable examples. 20
II. Define marriage and describe the various types of marriages in human societies. 15
III. Define Status and Role. Distinguish between Ascribed and Achieved Status. 15
Q4. Answer following (20 + 15 + 15 marks)
I. What is functionalism? Discuss the functional approach to the understanding of Religion. 20
II. What is understood by ‘Rites of Passage’? Describe the various phases of the ‘Rites of Passage and their significance. 20
III. Differentiate between State and Stateless Societies. 10
SECTION – B
5. Write notes on the following in about 150 words each: 10×5=50 marks
I. Cross-sectional methods of studying human growth
II. Genetic Counselling
III. Epidemiological Anthropology
IV. Asian Homo erectus
V. Fertility and Fecundity
Q6. Answer following (20 + 15 + 15 marks)
I. What are the different stages of Growth? Describe any one of them in detail. 20
II. Describe Turner and Klinefelter Syndromes in 15
III. What are the stresses at high altitudes? How do better cardio-respiratory functions help the native highlanders in combating low environmental pressure? 15
Q7. Answer following (20 + 15 + 15 marks)
I. Discuss the factors affecting gene frequencies among human populations. 20
II. Elucidate the skeletal differences between humans and chimpanzees. 15
III. Discuss the relevance of menarche, menopause and other bio-events to fertility. 15
Q8. Answer following (20 + 15 + 15 marks)
I. Discuss Ageing and Senescence. Describe either the biological or social theories of Ageing. 20
II. Describe the absolute dating methods in Archaeology, highlighting the importance of each method. 15
III. Describe the Neolithic culture of India. 15
Anthropology Optional Question Paper-2 (2014)
SECTION – A
1. Write notes on the following in about 150 words each: 10×5=50 marks
I. Neolithic cultures of N-E India
II. Tribe-Caste continuum
III. Great tradition and Little tradition
IV. Major linguistic divisions of India
V. Contribution of H. H. Risley to the ‘Aryan’ debate
Q2. Answer following (20 + 15 + 15 marks)
I. Describe what is known of Harappan Religion. Have some of its elements continued into later Hinduism? Discuss. 20
II. Describe the concept of ‘Sacred Complex’ with an ethnographic example. 15 marks
III. Do you think caste persists in contemporary India? Critically discuss. 15 marks
Q3. Answer following (20 + 15 + 15 marks)
I. Define the concept ‘Dominant Caste’ and examine its relevance in the contemporary Indian village with suitable examples. 20 Marks
II. Discuss the contribution of Islam to the composite culture of India. 15 marks
III. Discuss the importance of the ethno-archaeological approach to the study of indigenous craft in India. 15 marks
Q4. Answer following (20 + 15 + 15 marks)
I. Discuss the contributions of S. C. Roy to understanding the tribes of India. 20 Marks
II. Describe the evolutionary significance of the fossil finds of the Narmada Basin. 15 marks
III. Outline the distribution of Dravidian languages in India and describe their cultural significance. 15 marks
SECTION – B
5. Write notes on the following in about 150 words each: 10×5=50 marks
I. Biogenetic variations of Indian tribes
II. Social and economic marginalization of tribal people
III. Forest policy and tribes
IV. The concept of PTG
V. Impact of Christianity on tribes
Q6. Answer following (20 + 15 + 15 marks)
I. Critically examine the constitutional provisions for safeguarding the interests of Scheduled Tribes in India. 20 Marks
II. Discuss the impact of land alienation on the tribes of Central India. 15 marks
III. Critically evaluate the National Tribal Policy. 15 marks
Q7. Answer following (20 + 15 + 15 marks)
I. Discuss the impact of Globalization on the livelihood of the tribal populations. 20 Marks
II. What are the significant factors responsible for tribal unrest? 15 marks
III. Discuss the rise of ethno-nationalism among Indian tribes with specific example. 15 marks
Q8. Answer following (20 + 15 + 15 marks)
I. Critically assess the role of anthropologists in rural development. 20 Marks
II. Critically examine the role of NGOs in promoting health and education in tribal areas. 15 marks
III. Describe the history administration in the colonial period. 15 marks
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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