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 (2018)
SECTION – A
1. Write notes on the following in about 150 words each: 10×5=50 marks
(a) The Relevance of Anthropology 10 marks
(b) Difference between Science and Magic 10 marks
(c) Town Planning of Harappan Culture 10 marks
(d) Kinship Terminology 10 marks
(e) Ways of Acquiring Mate in Tribal Society 10 marks
Q2. (a) Explain the biological changes that made human beings capable of making culture. 20 marks
(b) How does customary law function in the tribal society? Discuss its different sources. 15 marks
(c) What do you understand by the National Character Study? Illustrate the concept. 15 marks
Q3. (a) Define ethnography and present a brief history of ethnographic studies. 20 marks
(b) Give an account of the consequences of food production of Neolithic culture. 15 marks
(c) Critically examine that the structure and content of language are influenced by culture 15 marks
Q4. (a) How is case study method helpful in understanding a social-phenomena? Explain with suitable example. 20 marks
(b) Describe the culture related to Homo erectus. 15 marks
(c) Write the characteristics of hunting and gathering economy. 15 marks
SECTION – B
5. Write notes on the following in about 150 words each: 10×5=50 marks
(a) Gordon Child’s Theory of Cultural Evolution 10 marks
(b) Advanced Molecular Anthropology Techniques 10 marks
(e) Categorize Genes that influence Human Survival. 10 marks
(d) Race is a Myth. Justify its Present Day Relevance. 10 marks
(e) Issues of Elderly and Senescence in Developing and Developed Countries 10 marks
Q6. (a) Explain the mechanisms of human variation in gene frequencies. 20 marks
(b) Do Allen’s rule and Bergmann’s rule hold for human populations? Explain with examples.15 marks
(c) Explain the impact of discovery of iron technology on contemporary Society. 15 marks
Q7. (a) Describe the mechanisms for structural anomalies of auto somes with diagrams. 20 marks
(b) Describe the principles of radiocarbon dating. Mention its limitations. 15 marks
(c) Narrate evolution of disease and major causes of ill health in human populations. 15 marks
Q8. (a) Distinguish between adaptation, adaptability and acclimatization with Examples. 20 marks
(b) Define fecundity and explain major factors affecting fecundity in Indian populations. 15 marks
(c) Give an account of the field methods used in the study of Archaeological Anthropology 15 marks
Anthropology Optional Question Paper-2 (2018)
SECTION – A
1. Write notes on the following in about 150 words each: 10×5=50 marks
1.(a) Distinctive cultural features of tribes of Andaman islands 10 marks
1.(b) Philosophy behind Purusharthas 10 marks
1.(c) Endangered Languages 10 marks
1.(d) OBCs among non-Hindu communities. 10 marks
1.(e) Ethnoarchaeology as a research strategy 10 marks
2.(a) Explain the contribution of tribal cultures to Indian civilization.20 marks
2.(b) Describe the salient features of Sivapithecus. 15 marks
2.(c) Discuss the impact of market economy on rural villages.15 marks
3.(a) Examine the regional variations of mesolithic cultures of India. 20 marks
3.(b) Based on historical and contemporary evidences discuss the future of caste system in india. 15 marks
3.(c) Examine the colonial administrators’ view that Indian villages can be considered as ‘little public’ 15 marks
4.(a) Explain the impact of Buddhism and Jainism on Indian society. 20 marks
4.(b) What are the various factors influencing population growth in India ? Discuss. 15 marks
4.(c) Discuss the view that caste is not social stratification, but a system of hierarchy. 15 marks
SECTION – B
5. Write notes on the following in about 150 words each: 10×5=50 marks
5.(a) Youth dormitory as an institution 10 marks
5.(b) Tribe and scheduled tribe 10 marks
5.(c) Agrarian social structure 10 marks
5.(d) The impact of Panchayati Raj institutions in rural areas 10 marks
5.(e) Modernization 10 marks
6.(a) Compare and contrast the economic typology of tribes given by different anthropologists. 20 marks
6.(b) Discuss the contribution of S. C. Roy in the study of tribal cultures in India. 15 marks
6.(c) Examine the advancement made in the land acquisition and rehabilitation Act of 2013 Over the land acquisition Act of 1894. 15 marks
7.(a) Critically examine the contributions of Makhan Jha and B. N. Saraswati to the study of sacred complexes in India. 20 marks
7.(b) Discuss the various factors resulting in tribal unrest in various parts of India. 15 marks
7.(c) Discuss the salient features of PESA Act of 1996 and attempt a comparison with the features of the VI Schedule. 15 marks
8.(a) Examine the strengths and weaknesses of anthropology in the context of its role in tribal and rural development 20 marks
8.(b) Explain the significance of tribe-caste continuum in the present context. 15 marks
8.(c) Discuss the significance and implementation of ‘Recognition of Forest Right’s Act 2006’ 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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