UPSC Mains 2021 Management Optional Paper I questions

28 questions from the Civil Services (Main) Examination 2021. Official UPSC paper (PDF) · All Management Optional PYQs

Globalization' seems to be at 'cross-roads' as increasingly large number of countries embrace 'neo-nationalism' based on the doctrine of 'self-reliance'. Briefly explaining the concept of globalization, critically evaluate the impact of growing 'neo-nationalism' on Indian firms and suggest strategic measures for effective management.
10 marks
What is personality? How do the big five personality traits predict work behaviour?
10 marks
What is strategic human resource management? Explain how HR practices get aligned with corporate strategies.
Why do organizations differ in their structure and design? What is the difference between a mechanistic structure and an organic structure?
10 marks
What are the variable pay-for-performance plans? What are the criteria for the success of these plans?
10 marks
Compare the process and effectiveness of: (i) Interacting (ii) Brainstorming (iii) Nominal (iv) Electronic meeting, as group decision making techniques.
20 marks
Enumerate the nine most identified power tactics. Discuss their relative effectiveness.
5 marks
Describe the major considerations in forecasting manpower requirements. What are the supply sources of the forecasted manpower?
5 marks
Briefly explain the concept of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) with industry illustrations. Critically evaluate major initiatives developed by multilateral agencies to measure CSR activities.
20 marks
"If money does not make you happy, you are not spending it right." Give your views on the statement in context of money being a tool for motivation.
5 marks
Briefly explain the distinguishing features between domestic and International Human Resource Management (IHRM). Critically evaluate pros and cons of employing Host Country Nationals (HCNs), Parent Country Nationals (PCNs) and Third Country Nationals (TCNs).
5 marks
List the various types of conceptual blocks that come in the way of thinking creatively. What is the process of innovation that firms should follow?
5 marks
Explain the concept of culture. Evaluate Hofstede's cross-cultural classifications and its implications in managing under culturally diverse situations.
20 marks
Explain Dunlop's system approach model of industrial relations. How did Bomers extend this model for international industrial relations?
Elucidate the basic process of marketing communication. What makes international marketing communication process much more complex compared to domestic one? Justify your answer with suitable examples.
Critically evaluate the pros and cons of the various methods adopted to determine the cost of inventories.
What is a swap? What are the common types of swaps? How are these investments induced?
"If sales forecast is subject to error, then there is no purpose of budgeting." Do you agree? How can a flexible budget be used to control costs?
Explain the concept of market segmentation. Prepare a comprehensive market research plan to identify and target markets for newly developed herbal preparations to alleviate post-COVID 9 adverse effects in international markets.
What is Variance Analysis? What are the possible reasons for different Cost Variances?
5 marks
Explain in brief the (i) Conventional; (ii) The First Chicago; and (iii) The Revenue Multiplier Valuation approaches for financial analysis of Venture Capital Investments.
"Cost determines price is a myth". Do you agree with the statement? Justify your answer with suitable examples. 0 (ii) Explaining the various types of pricing strategies, suggest a suitable pricing strategy for a newly developed luxury cosmetic targeted at premium customer segment.
10 marks
During the current financial year, XYZ Ltd. generated a profit of on a sale of %,05,00,000/-. The variable expenses were *55,00,000/-. Compute the following:, (i) Fixed expenses of the company. (ii) Break-even sales for the current financial year. (iii) Break-even sales if variable costs increase by 20%. (iv) Break-even sales required to maintain the profit as at present, if the selling price has to be reduced by 0%.
20 marks
How would you analyse the financial position of a company from the point of view of (i) An Investor; (ii) A Creditor; (iii) An Employee of the firm; and (iv) A Supplier of the firm?
20 marks
Critically evaluate the impact of online marketing on traditional marketing channel. In view of the fierce competition by online retailers in emerging post-pandemic situation, evolve a strategy for traditional retailers for survival and growth.
How is the income summary of the last accounting period connected with the balance sheet of the future accounting periods? Explain, preferably using the balance sheet and income summary equations.
5 marks
Highlight the major factors that need to be considered for a proper assessment of the quantum of working capital required by a firm.
15 marks
Marketers often adopt means and ways, both fair and unfair, to establish their supremacy in the marketplace. Identify key unethical practices adopted by the marketers and evaluate the existing policy frameworks for its efficacy. Also suggest suitable policy measures to curb such practices effectively.
20 marks

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