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Civil Services Mains 2015 · General Studies Paper 1

UPSC Mains 2015 GS Paper 1 Question Paper

20 questions, each with a model answer

The complete UPSC Civil Services Mains 2015 GS Paper 1 question paper — all 20 questions as they appeared, on Indian Heritage & Culture, History, Geography and Society. Each links to a structured model answer with an outline, key points and examples. Attempt the question first, then open the answer to check your structure and coverage.

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  1. Q1
    The ancient civilization in Indian sub-continent differed from those of Egypt, Mesopotamia and Greece in that its culture and traditions have been preserved without a breakdown to the present day. Comment.
    12.5 marks 200 words Medium Model answer →
  2. Q2
    Mesolithic rock cut architecture of India not only reflects the cultural life of the times but also a fine aesthetic sense comparable to modern painting. Critically evaluate this comment.
    12.5 marks 200 words Hard Model answer →
  3. Q3
    How different would have been the achievement of Indian independence without Mahatma Gandhi? Discuss.
    12.5 marks 200 words Medium Model answer →
  4. Q4
    Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, despite having divergent approaches and strategies, had a common goal of amelioration of the downtrodden. Elucidate.
    12.5 marks 200 words Medium Model answer →
  5. Q5
    It would have been difficult for the Constituent Assembly to complete its historic task of drafting the Constitution for Independent India in just three years but for the experience gained with the Government of India Act, 1935. Discuss.
    12.5 marks 200 words Medium Model answer →
  6. Q6
    Why did the industrial revolution first occur in England? Discuss the quality of life of the people there during the industrialization. How does it compare with that in India at present?
    12.5 marks 200 words Hard Model answer →
  7. Q7
    To what extent can Germany be held responsible for causing the two World Wars? Discuss critically.
    12.5 marks 200 words Hard Model answer →
  8. Q8
    Describe any four cultural elements of diversity in India and rate their relative significance in building a national identity.
    12.5 marks 200 words Medium Model answer →
  9. Q9
    Critically examine whether growing population is the cause of poverty OR poverty is the main cause of population increase in India.
    12.5 marks 200 words Hard Model answer →
  10. Q10
    How do you explain the statistics that show that the sex ratio in Tribes in India is more favourable to women than the sex ratio among Scheduled Castes?
    12.5 marks 200 words Medium Model answer →
  11. Q11
    Discuss the changes in the trends of labour migration within and outside India in the last four decades.
    12.5 marks 200 words Medium Model answer →
  12. Q12
    Discuss the positive and negative effects of globalization on women in India.
    12.5 marks 200 words Easy Model answer →
  13. Q13
    Debate the issue of whether and how contemporary movements for assertion of Dalit identity work towards annihilation of caste.
    12.5 marks 200 words Hard Model answer →
  14. Q14
    Explain the factors responsible for the origin of ocean currents. How do they influence regional climates, fishing and navigation?
    12.5 marks 200 words Easy Model answer →
  15. Q15
    Mumbai, Delhi and Kolkata are the three mega cities of the country but the air pollution is much more serious problem in Delhi as compared to the other two. Why is this so?
    12.5 marks 200 words Medium Model answer →
  16. Q16
    India is well endowed with fresh water resources. Critically examine why it still suffers from water scarcity.
    12.5 marks 200 words Hard Model answer →
  17. Q17
    The states of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand are reaching the limits of their ecological carrying capacity due to tourism. Critically evaluate.
    12.5 marks 200 words Hard Model answer →
  18. Q18
    How far do you agree that the behaviour of the Indian monsoon has been changing due to humanizing landscapes? Discuss.
    12.5 marks 200 words Medium Model answer →
  19. Q19
    Smart cities in India cannot sustain without smart villages. Discuss this statement in the backdrop of rural urban integration.
    12.5 marks 200 words Medium Model answer →
  20. Q20
    What are the economic significances of discovery of oil in Arctic Sea and its possible environmental consequences?
    12.5 marks 200 words Medium Model answer →

Other 2015 Mains papers

GS Paper 2GS Paper 3GS Paper 4Essay