UPSC Mock Interview - Questions on States

The UPSC Mock Interview for States is a crucial preparatory stage designed to assess and enhance the candidates’ readiness for the final phase of the civil services examination. Conducted with the aim of simulating the actual interview experience, this mock interview serves as a valuable tool for aspirants seeking positions in various state civil services. It provides candidates with a platform to showcase their personality, communication skills, and depth of knowledge on a range of subjects relevant to the administrative and governance roles they aspire to undertake. The UPSC Mock Interview for States is an opportunity for candidates to receive constructive feedback, refine their presentation, and build confidence as they navigate the challenging terrain of civil service interviews.

Table of Contents

Andhra Pradesh

What do you think about the idea of having three capitals for Andhra Pradesh?
How do you feel about having the executive and legislature in one place and the judiciary in another?
Have you heard about any reports regarding the purchase of land using insider information?
Why was Andhra Pradesh divided into two separate states?
Can you explain the constitutional provisions for the division and creation of states?
What are the five steps involved in the process of state division?
Why was India invaded from the northwest?
Why are there many tall temples in South India but not as many in North India?
Why do we learn more about Magadha and North Indian history during ancient times?
Can you tell me about the greatness of Ashoka?
How can Andhra Pradesh utilize its coastal area to generate revenue?
What is the significance of the Fifteenth Finance Commission?
Women’s movements in Andhra Pradesh, such as Self-Help Groups (SHGs), are considered successful. What makes women in Andhra Pradesh unique, and why aren’t women’s movements as successful in other states?
Why do southern states tend to have more law-abiding citizens compared to northern states?

Assam

What challenges does Assam face?
What is the issue with the internet in Assam?
What are the reasons behind the current violence in Assam?
Why are there frequent incidents of gunfire, and what are the implications? How can we prevent such cases?
Can you give an overview of the relationship between India and China from independence until now?
People say history repeats itself. How is that true, and why does it happen?
What is a golden butterfly?
In recent years, the number of rhinos has been increasing in Kaziranga. Should we consider shooting some of them to avoid conflicts between humans and animals?
What are the causes of rhino poaching?
What is the main market and route for smuggled rhino products?
Name two major problems in Assam.
If you become an IAS officer, what is the one thing you would do for Assam and India?
Briefly describe the problem of illegal immigrants.
What should be done with the National Register of Citizens (NRC)?
Share some information about Bihu. What are the types of Bihu, and how is it celebrated?

Bihar

Can you share information about your village?
What are your priorities in Jehanabad?
How do you plan to ensure the attendance of doctors?
How are you addressing law and order issues?
What’s your take on the habit of hero worship in Bihar?
Explain the difference between murder and homicide.
What distinguishes dacoity from robbery, and is dacoity still common?
Bihar faces challenges on many fronts. According to you, what is not working for Bihar, and what are the three reasons?
Why is it challenging to prevent floods in North Bihar, especially considering your district’s proximity to the Nepal border? What specific problems are faced?
What types of history books do you enjoy reading as a hobby? Have you read about the Great Mughals?
Can you name a well-known historian from Bihar?
Are you familiar with Ramdhari Singh Dinkar?
Have you read any of his poems? Can you recite a few lines from his poem on why the USA legalized marijuana?
What is the famous food of Bihar (Litti Chokha)? Can you explain how it’s made?
There are fewer hospitals in North Bihar compared to South Bihar. What could be the specific reason for this?
Name some strengths and weaknesses of Uttar Pradesh (UP).

Delhi

Can you explain the reasons behind air pollution in Delhi?
What measures has the Delhi government taken to reduce pollution?
Do you think the odd-even scheme in Delhi has been successful or not?
Can you define the terms “airshed” and “watershed”?
Delhi has been grappling with severe air pollution, and stubble burning is one of the causes. Do you believe the government has done enough to address this issue, or do you think more should be done?
In other countries, stubble is utilized for various purposes. Can you name any such use?
Since you are from Delhi, and recent elections took place, I watched a TED talk by Ms. Atishi. Can you explain who all are involved as stakeholders in school infrastructure?
Do you think a person with limited financial resources, sending their child to school, considers the school’s infrastructure?
What is the mentoring facility provided by the Delhi government in schools?
How are teachers involved in this mentoring process?
If given charge, name three issues you would address in Delhi.
Do you support statehood for Delhi? Why or why not?
Delhi is often seen as unsafe for women. Do you agree, and what do you think is the reason behind it?

Gujarat

Can you tell me about the main ports in Gujarat?
Who was responsible for developing the Kandla port, and why was it established?
As an SDM, how would you reduce air pollution in Ahmedabad?
What is the Gujarat model of development?
How relevant is Mahatma Gandhi in today’s world?
What qualities distinguish Mahatma Gandhi from other leaders?
If Gandhi were alive today, who do you think would follow him?
How was Mahatma Gandhi as a leader, and what is his strategy in business management?
Name two other leaders, in your opinion, who can be considered next to Gandhi.
What was special about Swami Vivekananda, and how did he contribute to spreading Indian culture?
Who established the INC, and when?
What was his profession before forming the INC?
Who founded Jansangh?
Who initiated the Communist ideology, and where was he born?
Where did he write his book?
What are the other excavations of the Harappa Civilization in Gujarat, and what led to their destruction?
During what time period did they exist?
Why are Gujaratis generally ahead in business and trading?
Why are Marwaris ahead in industries and large-scale productions?
What is different about the business-oriented culture of Gujaratis and Marwaris?
Explain the trusteeship philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi.
Tell me about the Bhuj Earthquake and how we can manage disasters in general.
Gujaratis are mainly trade-oriented; why are they not as interested in or averse to startups?
Gujarat and Africa have a special relationship; can you explain why?
Why have Gujaratis settled in African countries in such large numbers?
Do you know about the mass exodus of Gujaratis in Uganda? What was the reason?
Do you think the diaspora is becoming a problem for India in current international happenings?
Do we always intervene in other countries if Indians have problems there?
Should we intervene if people of Indian origin (PIO) face issues in their country?
Should we intervene if people of Indian origin (PIO) face problems in their country?

Haryana

What difficulties do the Gram Sabhas in Haryana face?
Do Khaap Panchayats challenge the authority of Gram Sabhas?
Have Khaaps changed their approach in the past, and what positive actions are they undertaking?
Why do water-intensive crops still grow in water-scarce areas of Haryana?
What is the sex ratio in Haryana?
Which districts in Haryana have the lowest sex ratio and female literacy?
What is the budget for BBBP (Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao)?
Why is the impact of the Green Revolution still visible in Haryana but not in Punjab?
Why did the youth in Punjab migrate to Canada?
Explain what drip irrigation is and mention its benefits. Why do our farmers use it in low numbers?
In a situation where animals like bulls and calves are on the street, what is the solution, and how would you handle it if you became the DM of a district?

Himachal Pradesh

Has it ever been governed by a foreign state?
Is Nepal’s request for parts in Himachal justified?
The relationship between Nepal and domestic politics and its impact on India.

Jharkhand

Share information about the economy of Jharkhand.
What measures can the government take to promote the development of Jharkhand?
Describe the status of Panchayats in Jharkhand.
How can we eliminate the culture of Mukhiya-pati?
Discuss the impact of development on tribal displacement.
Why was Jharkhand established?
Do small states contribute to development?
Why has Jharkhand faced challenges in development?
How can people be empowered to participate in the development process?
Is the social infrastructure in Jharkhand well-developed?
To what extent has it been developed?
Should the government spend on advertising?

Karnataka

Explain the Devadasi system and the steps taken to eliminate this social issue.
Are you talking about Sudha Murthy and her initiatives?
What other contributions has the Infosys Foundation made to society?
What is Bhadravati famous for in Karnataka?
Why was the steel factory established there?
Discuss the Cauvery water issue.
Will declaring the rivers of the country as national resources solve water problems?
What other actions are needed to address water-related challenges?
Why is there so much traffic in Bangalore, and what remedies are available?
Why does North Karnataka experience limited rainfall?
What has been the philosophy of the Karnataka Government since independence?
Compare the development models of Punjab and Kerala. Which one do you recommend?
What are the reasons behind the development of the IT sector in Bangalore? Was it due to government support or the complete freedom given to the private sector?

Kerala

What should be done with the treasure inside Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram?
Why is tourism important for Kerala’s economy?
Why aren’t other sectors as significant?
Why is Kozhikode called Calicut? What differences have you noticed between Calicut and Mumbai?
What is your opinion on the Sabarimala verdict?
Is the Supreme Court’s right to interfere in religious matters justified?
Despite being a matrilineal society, why do women in Kerala face oppression?
Tell me about Vaikom Satyagraha and Gandhi’s role in it.
Who are some contemporary famous personalities from Thiruvananthapuram?
Which tribe lives there?
Which Kerala monk traveled all over India, and what is his philosophy? Despite this philosophy, why are there issues like atrocities against women in Kerala?
Despite progress in Kerala, why are alcoholism and suicides prevalent? What is the solution?
How can Kerala’s high Human Development Index (HDI) be replicated in other states?
If posted in Jharkhand, how would you implement the Kerala model there?
Why is Kerala known as “God’s Own Country”?
Do you think there are issues in orphanages in Kerala?
Explain the origin of Kerala in relation to the myth of Parasuram.
Ayurveda is a main attraction in Kerala; name some herbs used in Ayurveda.
Why are there many political murders in North Kerala, especially in Kannur? Is there any historical background for this?
Left-wing extremism seems to find its way to Kerala; do you agree with this? Do you support police encounters against Maoists?
What places have cultural importance in Palakkad?
What can you tell me about Kalady and Shankaracharya?
Tell me something about St. Thomas and his relation to Chennai.
Where in Kerala is the most ancient Muslim mosque in the Indian subcontinent located?
What issues exist between the fishermen of Kerala and foreign-flagged ships off the Kerala coast, and what is the reason for this?
What is EEZ (Exclusive Economic Zone)?
What is the difference between a mile and a nautical mile?
Name two problems faced by your neighboring states, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
What is the population of the Indian diaspora in GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) countries?
What is the total population of Saudi Arabia, and what percentage of it is Indian?
What is the difference between the Gulf and the Middle East?
Other than Kerala, in which state would you like to settle?
What are the similarities between Kerala and the northeastern states?
How many states are there in the Northeast? Name them.
Describe Kerala’s historical relationships with foreign countries.
What are the major spices cultivated in Kerala?
Why did Europeans prefer spices?
What are the plantation crops in Kerala?
Why did decentralization work in Kerala and not in other states?
Why are there fewer manufacturing industries in Kerala?
Why are other states more successful in the manufacturing sector, like eastern states, southern (TN), and western states?
Why does East India have more industries?
How is the Kerala government addressing the problems faced by the manufacturing sector?
Can you provide information on the recent issue related to Hagia Sophia, and how should the international community resolve this?
Why do southern states tend to have law-abiding citizens compared to the North?

Madhya Pradesh

Tell me about Ujjain and what makes it famous.
Who is one of the most intelligent personalities from Ujjain?
What is the government doing to preserve our heritage and culture?
Why should we preserve such heritage? We can protect monuments and architectural sites, but how do we protect the value system you are talking about?
How are heritage sites linked to our folk culture?
Have you visited the last Kumbh Mela? Explain how you would organize the next Kumbh and what your priorities would be.
Tell me about textiles and handicrafts of Madhya Pradesh.
Share some information about Indore.
Why is Indore considered the cleanest city in India?
List five things the Madhya Pradesh government is doing to increase women’s participation in the economy.
Do you understand the meaning of the saying, “Jhansi gale ki faansi, Datia gale ka haar, Lalitpur na choddiyo jab tak mile na udhaar”?
What are the problems faced by Bundelkhand?
Share some information about places to visit in Bundelkhand.
Which important king of Bundelkhand established Orchha?
Have you been to the Orchha temple? If yes, which god’s temple is it?
Where is the idol sourced from?
Name the famous temples in Khajuraho.
What crops are grown in Bundelkhand?
Where is ginger grown in Bundelkhand?
What is grown in Mahoba?
Explain the reasons for the bandit culture in Morena and Chambal.

Maharshtra

What is the Mihan project all about?
Why do farmers face suicide issues?
What problems exist in Vidarbha and Marathwada? Is a separate Vidarbha the solution?
Can you share the contributions of Mahatma Phule and Shahu Maharaj?
Tell me something about the Maharashtra-Karnataka dispute.
Have you heard of Beed district? What is it famous for?
What do you believe are the reasons for female foeticide, and how can it be addressed?
Why is sugarcane, a crop that requires a lot of water, still promoted? Why hasn’t the government shifted away from sugarcane?
Can you share a brief description of Karad, your hometown, in 3-4 lines?
What is the significance of Raigad, particularly concerning administrative issues?
How do you go about implementing policies among tribal communities?
Can you tell me about Anna Hazare and his role?
Do you think the bureaucracy in Maharashtra has failed? Should there be more individuals like Anna Hazare, or is bureaucratic reform necessary?
Explain sugarcane cultivation and its challenges in Maharashtra.
Could you elaborate on PMFBY and the associated issues?
What is your understanding of the Bhima-Koregaon issue?
Can you identify three major problems in Maharashtra, and if you were the chief secretary, how would you address them? What targets would you set, and do you think they could be achieved?
What made Maharashtra special on Shiv Jayanti?
Share two notable points about Nasik.
Can you name all 12 Jyotirlingas?
Explain the importance of the Western Ghats to India.
How are biodiversity hotspots selected?
Have you heard of Lonar Lake? Where is it located, and what is its geological significance?
Being from Marathwada, are you familiar with the Razakars? Who were they, what did they do, and how did Marathwada attain freedom?
Was Marathwada under Nizam’s rule? If so, when did it gain freedom, and can you provide the exact date?
What transpired in Marathwada between 1948 and 1960?
When was Maharashtra formed, and do you consider it developed?
What similarities exist between Nagpur and Delhi?
How do the people in Delhi differ from those in Nagpur?
As a Pune resident, could you highlight some historical places in the city?
Are there any notable military establishments or airforce commands in Pune?
How would you enhance public transport usage in Pune?
Why is Vidarbha-Marathwada considered a rain shadow zone?
Which regions in Maharashtra are known for grape production?
How can we make the grape industry more profitable for farmers?
Can you outline a process for producing ethanol from grapes on an industrial scale?
You’re from Akola. Could you share information about Dr. Punjabrao Deshmukh and his contributions?
Do you think there should be a separate Vidarbha? What steps can be taken to address political neglect?
Have you ever visited Shaniwar Wada?
What aspects of Pune did you like the most?
How was the monsoon in Maharashtra this year?
To address farmer suicides in Maharashtra, can you suggest innovative solutions?
Which Bajirao died on the battlefield in 1761: Bajirao 1 or Bajirao 2?
Tell me about the history of Bhima Koregaon and Elgaar Parishad. Why do Dalits visit there, and is it considered anti-national to visit a place where they defeated the Peshwa?
Explain the significance of Raigad (birthplace) in Maratha history.
Trace the growth of the Maratha Empire against the Bahmanshahis, Mughals, and English.
What is Attock to Cuttack? Where is Attock, and why did the Marathas go there?
How is Mahatma Gandhi related to Pune?
Have you visited the Aga Khan Palace?
On which river bank is Nashik located, and what is it famous for?
Where are all the Kumbh Melas held?
Can you share the story behind the Kumbh Mela?
What is watershed development, and how is it progressing in Vidarbha and Marathwada? What are the benefits of watershed development?
Being from Maharashtra, can you tell me about the origin of Vada Pav?
When you think of Maharashtra, which single leader comes to your mind?
What were the contributions of Savitribai Phule?
Could you mention some books written by Jyotirao Phule?
As someone from Jalgaon, what are the strengths and weaknesses of the region?
What is Maharashtra famous for?
Why is the cooperative sector facing a crisis?
How can we revive the cooperative sector? What are some solutions?
Who is Baba Amate, and could you share information about his projects?
What is Solapur famous for?
Can you explain what GI tags are?
Define Naxalism and explain its ideology. How did Telangana successfully address this issue, and why are Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra still struggling? What could be done differently, especially if you were the DGP of Maharashtra?
Do you think the Central Home Ministry is doing enough to combat Naxalism?
Define Nationalism and Patriotism. What is the difference between them? In your opinion, which one is better and why? Can you provide a live example?
Mumbai is named after whom, and where is the temple of Mumbadevi located?

Punjab

Can you highlight three problems currently faced by Punjab, and suggest possible solutions?
How do you manage political and administrative pressure when dealing with issues related to drug control?
What is the groundwater crisis in Punjab, and should there be a ban on certain crops to address it?
Can you explain the differences between culture and civilization?
Share key features of the Indus Valley civilization, including notable sites.
What makes Lothal special in historical context?
Why is Punjab lagging behind in sports?
What is the dispute over the capital city of Chandigarh between Punjab and Haryana, and how can it be resolved?
Despite government restrictions, why do farmers in Punjab continue to burn paddy straw?
Should the government compensate farmers for not burning stubble, even if it contradicts the “polluter pays principle”?
Why is it necessary to remove stubble before planting a new crop?

Rajasthan

Can you suggest measures to increase tourism in Rajasthan?
Chittorgarh is your hometown; can you share what it is known for and the historical reasons behind Jauhar?
How many times has Jauhar occurred in Chittorgarh?
What is the tourism potential of Alwar?
Can you tell me about the backward or aspirational districts in Rajasthan?
Name the backward regions of Rajasthan.
Compare the development of South Rajasthan and Southeast Rajasthan.
What are some examples of good administration practices in Rajasthan?
Share information about the coaching industry in Kota.
Rajasthan is famous for many things; can you name a few?
Why is Hawa Mahal so popular in Rajasthan?
Is manual scavenging still practiced in the state?
Is there still an issue with drinking water availability in Rajasthan?
When did you last visit Bhakra Nangal Dam, and what makes it famous?
Which is the largest dam in the world, and what is its power generation capacity?
Can India construct such a dam, and what challenges might be faced?
Explain the concept of Green Revolution as both pain and gain.
What is the Evergreen Revolution?
What challenges do the bordering districts of Rajasthan face due to the Indira Gandhi Canal?
Share the strengths and weaknesses of Rajasthan.
Discuss the impact of climate change on Rajasthan and suggest steps to mitigate its effects. Describe the geographical regions of the state.
There is an agricultural research institute in Jodhpur; can you provide information about it?
What is the most important mineral for Rajasthan?
Tell me about the Maanganiyaar singers of Rajasthan. Why is their population decreasing?
Briefly describe the Bishnoi community, their commitment to environmental protection, and whether they are still actively involved.

Tamil Nadu

What is the governance index, and why is Tamil Nadu ranked the best?
How well is your state performing in health and education? Can you provide details on cancer, TB, and MDR TB status in Tamil Nadu?
What is the controversy between Periyar and Rajini?
Why are cinema stars getting involved in politics?
What is the reason behind the hero-worship culture in India?
Why did India face invasions from the Northwest?
Why does South India have numerous grand temples while North India does not?
Why is Magadha and North Indian history more prominent in ancient history readings?
Share insights into the greatness of Ashoka.
Is there something you admire in North India that you would like to implement in South India?
Can you name some tourist places in Tamil Nadu?
What is Tamil Nadu’s current position in tourism, and how can it be improved?
Explain the relationship between cinema and Tamil Nadu politics.
Where were the three Sangam meetings held?
Aside from tourism, architecture, and stone temples, what are the distinctive features of Mahabalipuram?
Tell me about government initiatives to connect Northeastern India with the mainland.

Telangana

What is the current situation of Naxalism in Telangana?
Why has it decreased in Telangana but not in other states like Chhattisgarh and Odisha?
What measures have been taken at both the central and state levels to address this issue?
Could you recommend five interesting places to visit in Hyderabad?
How many tribal communities are there in Telangana?
Can you explain the constitutional provisions related to state bifurcation and creation?
What are the five key steps involved in the process of state bifurcation?
Why was India invaded from the Northwest? Why does South India have many tall temples while North India does not?
Why is there more emphasis on Magadha and North Indian history in ancient times?
Can you highlight the greatness of Ashoka?
What is the purpose of Mission Kakatiya?
Could you provide an overview of the origin of the Telangana movement?
In what ways is the culture of Telangana different from Andhra? Is it comparable to the UK and USA being two separate countries with the same language?
Why was Telangana created when there was a policy of one language, one state?
Should we create a new state for every 100 km just because culture changes every 100 km?
What factors contribute to the tendency of southern states to have law-abiding citizens compared to the North?

Uttar Pradesh

How is the law and order situation in Uttar Pradesh?
Why are there vacancies for the DGP and Chief Secretary positions?
Can you explain the Police Commissioner system in UP and how effective it is?
If you were the Chief Secretary of UP, what would be your top two priorities?
Tell me something interesting about Agra, aside from the Taj Mahal.
Are there other things named after “Taj Mahal”?
If you were the DM of Agra, how would you prevent the harmful use of chemicals in vegetables?
Since you graduated from Varanasi, where the Swachh Bharat Mission started, what impact has it had on Varanasi?
What are the major crops grown in UP?
Discuss the challenges faced by the sugarcane industry in UP.
How much progress has been made in cleaning the Ganga River, or is it still in a poor condition?
What is Allahabad known for, and what is the significance of the Kumbh Mela?
When does the Mahakumbh take place?
Given its large size and administrative challenges, do you think Uttar Pradesh should be divided?
Can everyone access e-governance services? Despite this, Uttar Pradesh still lags behind in various indicators.
You’re from Varanasi. How would you describe the city to someone and convince them to visit?
Why was the Police Commissionerate system implemented in UP?

West Bengal

Can you explain what the term “City of Joy” signifies?
Share information about Nobel Prize winners from Calcutta.
Could you describe the Indigo Rebellion and its historical significance?
What is meant by the Permanent Settlement in history?

FAQs on UPSC Mock Interview – Questions on States

Q1. What is the UPSC Mock Interview for States?

A. The UPSC Mock Interview for States is a simulated interview process designed to prepare candidates for the final phase of state civil services examinations. It aims to replicate the actual interview experience conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) for state-level services.

Q2. Who conducts the UPSC Mock Interview for States?

A. Various coaching institutes, educational organizations, or experienced professionals may conduct the UPSC Mock Interview for States. These sessions are designed to help candidates understand the interview process and receive valuable feedback.

Q3. What is the purpose of the UPSC Mock Interview for States?

A. The primary purpose of the mock interview is to assess and enhance candidates’ preparedness for the actual interview conducted by state public service commissions. It serves as a practice session to refine their communication skills, knowledge presentation, and overall interview performance.

Q4. How can I register for the UPSC Mock Interview for States?

A. Registration procedures may vary depending on the organizing institution. Generally, candidates can check with coaching institutes, online platforms, or relevant authorities for information on registration processes, dates, and fees.

Q5. What should I expect during the UPSC Mock Interview for States?

A. The mock interview typically involves a panel of experts who pose questions on a range of subjects, including current affairs, general knowledge, and topics related to the specific state and its governance. It aims to evaluate the candidate’s personality, analytical abilities, and suitability for administrative roles.

Q6 Is the UPSC Mock Interview for States mandatory for candidates?

A. Participation in the mock interview is usually voluntary. While it is not a mandatory part of the state civil services examination, it is highly recommended as it provides candidates with a realistic preview of the actual interview process.

Q7. How long does a typical UPSC Mock Interview for States last?

A. The duration of the mock interview can vary, but it usually lasts around 20 to 30 minutes. This timeframe allows candidates to experience the intensity and pressure of a real interview setting.

Q8. What kind of feedback will I receive after the UPSC Mock Interview for States?

A. Candidates can expect detailed feedback on various aspects of their performance, including content knowledge, communication skills, body language, and overall presentation. This constructive feedback helps them identify strengths and areas for improvement.

Q9. Can I attend multiple UPSC Mock Interviews for States?

A. Yes, candidates are often encouraged to participate in multiple mock interviews to gain exposure to different interview settings, questions, and panel dynamics. This can contribute to their overall preparedness.

Q10. How can I utilize the feedback from the UPSC Mock Interview for States to improve my performance?

A. Candidates should carefully review the feedback provided by the panel and work on addressing the identified areas of improvement. This may involve refining their knowledge base, enhancing communication skills, and building confidence for the actual interview.

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UPSC Mock Interview – Questions on States