UPSC Mock Interview – Questions on Social Issues

The UPSC Mock Interview on Social Issues is a crucial component of the Civil Services Examination preparation, designed to assess the candidates’ depth of understanding, empathy, and analytical prowess in addressing complex societal challenges. As the UPSC places significant emphasis on the holistic development of future civil servants, the mock interview on social issues serves as a platform to evaluate candidates’ awareness of current social problems, their ability to formulate well-rounded perspectives, and their potential to contribute meaningfully to policy-making and societal development. Through this mock interview, candidates are expected to showcase their grasp of social issues both in India and globally, their ethical and empathetic considerations, and their readiness to engage with the multifaceted dimensions of society as aspiring civil servants.

Education

1. How is NIFR ranking done, and do you think there should be additional criteria?
2. Why is industry funding crucial for universities?
3. Do you support the establishment of numerous IITs by the Government of India?
4. Share insights about the new education policy. What’s different in it?
5. Mass cheating in schools is a concern; suggest solutions.
6. In the USA, there are no board exams; do we need a similar system in India?
7. Explain the difference between Central universities and State universities and name a few Central Universities.
8. Are you familiar with RUSA, and what are its features?
9. Do you think the role of UGC is diminishing with new agencies emerging in the education sector?
10. How much monitoring is required for higher education institutions, and at what level should it be done?
11. What level of autonomy should be granted to colleges?
12. Share your views on government policies in the education and social sector.
13. Differentiate between knowledge, literacy, and education.
14. Despite education, many remain unemployed; why do you think this is the case?
15. What is the status of skilling in the country?
16. Is there an audit of educational standards in higher education? Explain NAAC.
17. Define university, deemed university, college, state university, and the role of UGC in these.
18. Despite organizations like MoHRD, UGC, AICTE, and NAAC, higher education faces challenges; what do you think is the reason?
19. Why hasn’t the private sector excelled in education, and do you consider it a complete failure?
20. IITs receive substantial government funding but haven’t completely solved societal problems; do you agree?
21. What contributions do IITs make to society?
22. Why are people hesitant to enroll their children in government schools?
23. What are the problems with government schools?
24. How would you address these issues?
25. What steps is the government taking to address these challenges?
26. How can we prevent school dropouts?
27. What are your thoughts on the survey indicating that engineers are deemed unemployable?
28. Can India deliver quality education at an affordable cost?
29. Is India equipped to accommodate all the engineers it produces?
30. Can creative writing be cultivated through courses or classes?
31. What functions and roles does NAAC serve?
32. How does NAAC accredit a college, and does accreditation impact funding?
33. Should the NET be a mandatory criterion for teaching in colleges, unlike in the private sector?
34. Are you familiar with Single Teacher Schools, and what is their rationale?
35. What are your views on the no-detention policy?
36. At which educational level should we introduce teachings of oneness—primary, secondary, or higher education?
37. Assess the performance of RTE; has it brought inclusiveness and improvements at the ground level?
38. What hurdles exist in improving women’s literacy?
39. Engineers from various branches are entering the software field; is there an issue with our education system?
40. Should humanities and social science subjects be integrated into technical courses, and what subjects should be included?
41. Explain the ASER report in education. Discuss recent controversies, particularly related to methodology.
42. Differentiate between the teaching methodologies of universities and UPSC. What is the Guinness record associated with this?
43. The UK and US follow different education models; should India adopt one of these, considering free elementary education or free education up to Ph.D.?
44. Is vocational education necessary?
45. Does our education system encourage creativity?
46. Regarding the demographic dividend you mentioned, do you believe in the commercialization of education?
47. Discuss the challenges with research publications in Indian colleges. As a policymaker, what measures would you implement?
48. Define inclusive education and value education in your perspective.
49. What values were instilled in you during your school years? How do missionary schools emphasize value education?
50. Many people opt for private schooling in India; however, there are still violations like breaking red lights. Why is this, especially if value education is provided in schools?
51. How can the participation rate of women be improved?
52. What measures should be taken to ensure the safety of women?
53. Differentiate between grading and percentage marks. Which system do you prefer, and why?
54. Discuss the perception of girls being weaker in mathematics and suggest ways to improve math education. How can new methods be introduced?
55. What is the objective of Navodaya Vidyalaya, and are there similar initiatives for tribal girls? When were Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas (KGBV) established?
56. Should brilliant minds be encouraged to pursue careers in science and research?
57. How can the government enhance the private sector’s involvement in education?
58. Provide examples of private players promoting research.
59. Should the NET be considered the eligibility criterion for teaching in colleges, considering the absence of such criteria in the private sector?
60. What did PM Modi recently mention about exam stress, and do you agree with his statement?
61. Discuss how language can become a barrier in education.
62. Explain why there are more startups in the IT sector compared to manufacturing.
63. Explore the reasons why IITs rank lower in world rankings.
64. Compare IIT and IISc.
65. Why do Indians often lack innovation, resorting to copying Western startup ideas rather than generating new ones?
66. Why are people in India generally risk-averse?
67. How can institute-industry collaboration be increased?
68. Assess the performance of the Right to Education (RTE) Act. Have you observed any changes at the ground level since its enactment? Has it fostered inclusiveness, and in what areas has it shown improvement?
69. Explain the benefits of Sainik schools and discuss how you would utilize them in administration.
70. Define the purpose of education. While one perspective emphasizes intellectual development for social upliftment, Swami Vivekananda believed that education’s purpose is to bring out the inherent goodness in individuals. Share your viewpoint.
71. Differentiate between private schools and Kendriya Vidyalayas.
72. Address the problem of teacher absenteeism and propose solutions.
73. Explore why teachers may view their job as a profession rather than a service. Is this perspective applicable to all government services?
74. Identify a significant deficiency in medical education.
75. Discuss the nomenclature of universities like Banaras Hindu University and Aligarh Muslim University. Do you think such names are appropriate?
76. Examine the disparity in the quality of students despite the abundance of colleges. What measures has the government taken to address this issue? Why do people prioritize spending on KG education over higher education?
77. Assess the feasibility of providing universal higher education.
78. Examine the existence of different boards (ICSE, CBSE, regional boards). Is there a need for a uniform board system?
79. Determine the category under which education falls in the 7th schedule of the Indian Constitution.
80. Differentiate between Sarva Siksha Abhiyan and the Right to Education.
81. Identify issues related to the Right to Education.
82. Choose one provision of the Right to Education that you would prioritize for implementation.
83. Explore the current emphasis on higher education over primary education and discuss the reasons behind this focus.
84. Evaluate the success and challenges of the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan.
85. Identify the problems in secondary education.
86. Given that Indian schools struggle to provide basic education, and learning outcomes are low, propose solutions for improvement.
87. Outline strategies to make the education sector in India more innovative.
88. Explain the functioning of Atal Tinkering Labs.
89. Analyze the contradictory trends of opening more IITs and NITs while other engineering colleges are closing down. Provide insights into the need for additional engineering colleges or diploma institutes.
90. Discuss the measures you would take to rectify the education sector in India.
91. Argue whether the government should prioritize planning and spending on primary and secondary education over tertiary education.
92. Address the responsibility for the lack of learning outcomes in Indian schools.
93. Define quality education and express your perspective on what constitutes quality in education.
94. Examine the reasons for poor research output in Indian universities and compare it to Israel’s competence in research.
95. Discuss the link between the military and startups in Israel and propose how a similar model could be developed in India.
96. Offer three suggestions to enhance research in Indian universities.
97. Explain the role and functions of HEFA (Higher Education Financing Agency).
98. Assess whether India can provide quality education at affordable costs.
99. Provide an update on the status of the education policy, including its provisions for higher education. Specify the enactment year of the current education policy.
100. Share your views on value-based education and discuss its relevance, especially at higher levels of education.
101. Suggest three reforms for the education sector.
102. Define the role of IIT in reforming higher education.
103. Draw upon your experiences in various educational institutions to highlight quality issues in government institutions.
104. Distinguish between education and literacy and analyze whether India is focusing on education or literacy. Provide an overview of the current status.

Health & Nutrition

1. Why do many mothers face health problems after giving birth, and what is the main reason?
2. What are the reasons for heavy bleeding after childbirth?
3. How can we make sure that fewer mothers face health issues after childbirth?
4. What needs to be done even before people know more about these health problems?
5. Why don’t doctors want to work in villages, and how can we solve this problem?
6. I heard that by 2050, India will have more people than China. What can we do to control this?
7. Why did the life expectancy in India increase so much after we became independent?
8. What are the main reasons for fewer mothers dying during childbirth?
9. How can we help people live longer, healthier lives?
10. Should the government give medicines for free, and how can they do it?
11. Are there medicines that don’t cost much? Can you tell me about them?
12. Why are generic medicines less expensive?
13. Can you explain what health insurance is?
14. What’s the difference between a drug and a medicine?
15. Is diabetes a sickness? How does the way we live affect it? Can it be cured?
16. Do you think activities like Yoga and Ayurveda can help make us healthy again?
17. Do we buy medicines from other countries, or do we sell them?
18. What changes do you think would make government hospitals better?
19. How can technology (like computers and the internet) help in medicine?
20. What is the name of the company owned by Kiran Mazumdar Shaw?
21. Even though some doctors are also managers, health hasn’t improved much. How can we make sure older people get better healthcare?
22. What is medical tourism, and are there any legal problems with it? Which country is the biggest customer for this? Should it be considered an industry?
23. What health-related news caught your attention in today’s newspaper?
24. What is gene therapy, and can it cure diseases?
25. What is Thalassemia, and can gene therapy help treat it? What treatments does your hospital provide for Thalassemia?
26. As a dentist, can you explain prosthodontics and orthodontics?
27. What harmful oral habits are common in your state? How do urban and rural areas differ in oral habits?
28. Why has the number of cesarean operations increased?
29. What is your perspective on the child sex ratio in our country?
30. Can you share your thoughts on the NHS and the ongoing debate?
31. What are sustainable health schemes?
32. Why is the infant mortality rate high in India, and how does it impact the country?
33. What nutritional problems exist in India?
34. Why is neonatal mortality high, and what can be done about it? Are there any related government schemes?
35. Do you know about living wills?
36. What is your opinion on living wills?
37. Should doctors honor a living will if an individual provides one?
38. If an individual passes away, should their family present the living will to the doctor?
39. What challenges might a doctor face when dealing with a living will?
40. Can genetic coding predict future diseases?
41. How is genetics connected to cancer treatment?
42. What is the most common type of cancer in India?
43. What ingredients are in the concentrate used to make PEPSI?
44. What developments are being made to make Pepsi healthier?
45. Do you think health should be a private or public matter?
46. Is Ayurveda considered science or quackery? Would you use Ayurveda for treatment, and what challenges does AYUSH face?
47. Can you explain issues related to corporate hospitals, hidden costs in implants, the pharma-doctor connection, and the lack of empathy among doctors? How can government hospitals improve hygiene?
48. What is medical tourism, and what are its advantages? Is it considered an industry?
49. How does the general public benefit from medical advancements?
50. Do doctors and civil servants have mutual respect for each other?
51. Discuss regulatory capture by the medical council. Is the National Medical Commission a positive step, and what criticisms does it face?
52. Are there any government programs in the health sector? Provide information about the health insurance proposed in the budget.
53. Explain the difference between Primary Health Centers (PHC) and rural hospitals.
54. In the event of a nuclear attack, how can an individual protect themselves?
55. Describe a strategy to prevent the spread of infections like Ebola.
56. What are the issues with private hospitals and private medical education? How can excessive fees at private hospitals be prevented?
57. Discuss blood groups and their significance, as well as the risks of blood transfusion mismatches.
58. Share any health programs or schemes you would like to implement in addition to existing ones.
59. As an MD student in pharmacology, explain why branded generics are expensive in India and whether any measures are being taken to address this.
60. What is the hype around the concept of “size zero,” and as a doctor, would you recommend it?
61. Do family medicine doctors create inefficiencies, and could the number of medical negligence cases rise as a result?
62. What institutional mechanisms exist in India to address medical ethics, and did you have exposure to such concepts during your MBBS course?
63. What is malnutrition, and has the ICDS (Integrated Child Development Services) failed to address it?
64. How do cultural factors contribute to malnutrition?
65. Is malnutrition present in both urban and rural areas?
66. What suggestions do you have for improving the health sector?
67. How can awareness about generic medicines be increased?
68. Why did the pharmaceutical industry develop in Haryana and Himachal Pradesh?
69. What is the National Medical Commission, and how does it help increase the number of doctors? What is your opinion on bridge courses?
70. Explain the treatment of hepatitis in pregnant women.
71. Describe the treatment for anemia and hypertension in pregnant women. What advice would you give if she can’t afford the treatment?
72. What is the National Health Policy 2017, and what is the budget expenditure target for health?
73. What is the full form of AYUSH?
74. Explain the differences between various medicinal systems.
75. Is the regulation of stent prices right or wrong?
76. What should be done when hospitals refuse to release dead bodies due to unpaid bills?
77. Do big hospitals take advantage of common people?
78. What role does the government play in such cases?
79. Do we need a health ombudsman?
80. Have we achieved malaria eradication, and if not, why?
81. Why have Sri Lanka and Bangladesh achieved their health targets faster than India?
82. What is the tympanic reflex?
83. Discuss a case in medical jurisprudence involving domestic violence and a resultant seven-week miscarriage.
84. Provide information about recent government initiatives on HIV.
85. Since you were closely associated with the public health sector in Kerala, what do you consider the greatest challenge in Indian healthcare?
86. Is affordability and accessibility still a challenge, and what steps is the government taking to address it?
87. Offer solutions for malnutrition in rural areas.
88. Is your village Open Defecation Free (ODF), and what type of latrines are used? Explain the advantages of twin-pit latrines.
89. What is the Ayushman Bharat Program, and what is the scope of the PPP (Public-Private Partnership) model in Ayushman Bharat?
90. What is NFSA (National Food Security Act)?
91. Can you explain International Standards of Health (ISO standards) in simple terms?
92. How can we improve the performance of Primary Health Centers (PHCs)? Should they be privatized, or should insurance be allowed in them?
93. What is the best method for providing fluoride-free water?
94. How do you assess the development of women, and what is MMR (Maternal Mortality Ratio)? What is India’s MMR, and which state performs the best and worst in terms of MMR?
95. Why do you think MMR and health indicators are low for women? How does India compare to neighboring countries in these aspects?
96. What is NHPS (National Health Protection Scheme), and why is it necessary now?
97. Can you explain how “health is wealth”?
98. How is the Ayushman Bharat scheme different from the previous one? What are its important features, and what challenges does the government face in implementing it?
99. Why is malaria still a burden, and what is the most common drug currently used? Is it extracted from plants, and if so, which plant is it?
100. Did you know that India eliminated polio in 2014? What was the reason for deaths related to polio cases a few years back? Why are there still polio cases after polio vaccination?
101. Tell me about the National Family Health Survey. How frequently is it conducted, and how can we improve these indicators when the budget for the Ministry of Women and Child and ICDS schemes is reduced?

 Vulnerable Section

1. What is the recent Supreme Court judgment regarding Forest Rights, and why was the Forest Rights Act enacted?
2. How many tribes exist in India?
3. What are your thoughts on integrating tribes into mainstream society? Have you heard about the incident involving the man who went to the Andaman Islands, and should we integrate the Sentinelese?
4. Can you explain the Forest Rights Act and its current status of implementation in Chhattisgarh?
5. The government has introduced several policies for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). Can you name those policies and programs?
6. Discuss the special problems faced by the elderly and the measures taken by the government.
7. What is the Tribal Sub Plan, and can you name some autonomous regions?
8. Explain what a scheduled area is, and what is the significance of the 5th and 6th schedules?
9. Why is autonomy given to tribal areas?
10. Have you visited any tribal region? What did you observe there, and what type of minor forest produce do they usually sell? Where do tribal people sell their minor forest produce?
11. Despite awareness about agro-technology, tribal communities may not be adopting it. Why do you think this is happening, and do you believe it’s necessary to extend farm machinery to tribal areas? Why?
12. Shifting from subsistence to commercial agriculture might lead to deforestation. Do you agree, and how can we address this issue?
13. Traditionally, tribes prefer to live in forests, so why are they migrating now?
14. Agriculture in tribal areas is often a seasonal activity. How can we provide them with sustained livelihood?
15. Compare the people in tribal and mainstream areas. Why do tribal communities resist adopting mainstream culture?
16. What is the status of tribes in India, and how are they perceived in Indian society?
17. Explain the Forest Rights Act of 2006 and its challenges.
18. Are tribal communities genetically pure?
19. As we try to integrate tribes into mainstream society, how will they adjust to the new surroundings?
20. How do you define disability, and how can Persons with Disabilities contribute to society?
21. How can people with cerebral palsy contribute to society?
22. Do you believe the government is doing enough for disabled individuals?

Miscellaneous

1. Is it accurate to say that young people are wasting their time on social media, and is social media itself a waste? Share your thoughts.
2. Can you mention two positive aspects of social media along with examples?
3. Identify two negative aspects of social media with examples.
4. Explain what social engineering is.
5. What is your understanding of social justice?
6. How relevant are Mahatma Gandhi’s ideals in today’s world?
7. What are the reasons behind the lack of civic sense among Indians? (Considering the poor implementation of the Swachh Bharat mission since 2014, as per your perspective.)
8. Do you consider India’s population to be a boon or a bane?
9. Should there be regulations on the number of children per family?
10. Is it acceptable to take coercive actions to control the population?
11. Can you explain the Varna system?
12. Highlight the drawbacks of the Varna system and its positive aspects.
13. Is diversity an opportunity or a challenge?
14. Discuss the positives and negatives of social media.
15. Do you believe we should be grateful to the British for Indian unity? Share your views.
16. What can you tell me about Self-help groups, particularly those in Andhra Pradesh and their contributions?
17. Explain the Kudumbasri program.
18. What is the Smart Cantonment initiative, and how does it relate to the Smart City initiative? What issues are involved in its implementation?
19. Sociologically explain the issue of blood donation in India.
20. What are the social causes of poverty, and how is poverty measured?
21. Why do you think India hasn’t solved the problem of poverty in 70 years when other countries have?
22. Discuss the role of cinema in society.
23. Are you on any social networking platform? What are the issues associated with it?
24. What are India’s five major social issues?
25. Name three advantages and three disadvantages of social media.

FAQs on UPSC Mock Interview – Questions on Social Issues

Q1. What is the purpose of including a social issues component in the UPSC Mock Interview?

A. The inclusion of social issues in the UPSC Mock Interview aims to assess a candidate’s awareness, sensitivity, and analytical abilities regarding prevalent societal challenges. It evaluates their potential to contribute effectively to policy-making and governance in areas related to social concerns.

Q2. How are social issues relevant to the Civil Services Examination?

A. Social issues are integral to the Civil Services Examination as they reflect the candidates’ understanding of the diverse challenges faced by society. As future civil servants, candidates are expected to propose solutions, formulate policies, and contribute to positive social change.

Q3. What kind of social issues can be expected in the UPSC Mock Interview?

A. The social issues covered in the mock interview can range from poverty, education, health, gender equality, and human rights to contemporary global challenges like climate change, migration, and socio-economic disparities.

Q4. How should I prepare for the social issues segment of the UPSC Mock Interview?

A. To prepare for the social issues segment, stay informed about current affairs, understand the historical context of social problems, and be aware of government initiatives and international perspectives. Develop a balanced view on issues, considering ethical and empathetic aspects.

Q5. Is there a specific format for answering questions related to social issues during the mock interview?

A. While there is no rigid format, it is essential to structure your responses logically. Begin with a brief introduction, provide context, discuss the problem comprehensively, propose solutions, and conclude with a balanced perspective. Maintain clarity, coherence, and conciseness in your responses.

Q6. How can I demonstrate empathy and ethical considerations in my responses?

A. Display empathy by acknowledging the human aspect of social issues, and recognizing the impact on individuals and communities. When addressing ethical considerations, emphasize the principles of justice, equality, and human dignity in your proposed solutions.

Q7. Are international perspectives on social issues important in the UPSC Mock Interview?

A. Yes, considering international perspectives showcases a broader understanding of global issues and reflects an awareness of India’s position in the global context. It demonstrates an appreciation for the interconnectedness of social challenges.

Q8. How can I handle controversial social issues during the interview?

A. Approach controversial issues with sensitivity and objectivity. Clearly present your stance, supporting it with reasoned arguments. Acknowledge opposing views and demonstrate a willingness to engage in constructive dialogue.

Q9. Can questions related to social issues be intertwined with other areas in the interview?

A. Yes, questions on social issues may overlap with economic, political, or environmental aspects. Be prepared to integrate your knowledge across various subjects and provide a holistic understanding of the interconnectedness of societal challenges.

Q10. What is the significance of the social issues component in the overall evaluation process?

A. The social issues component is crucial as it reflects the candidate’s ability to grasp complex problems, think critically, and propose practical solutions. It offers insights into their ethical considerations, empathy, and readiness to tackle real-world issues as future civil servants.

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