UPSC Mains 2023 GS Paper 1 questions

20 questions from the Civil Services (Main) Examination 2023. Official UPSC paper (PDF) · Model answers · All GS Paper 1 PYQs

1. 1

   Explain the role of geographical factors towards the development of Ancient India.

   Art & Culture · 150 words · 10 marks

2. 2

   What was the difference between Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore in their approach towards education and nationalism?

   Modern History · 150 words · 10 marks

3. 3

   Bring out the socio-economic effects of the introduction of railways in different countries of the world.

   World History · 150 words · 10 marks

4. 4

   Discuss the consequences of climate change on the food security in tropical countries.

   Geography · 150 words · 10 marks

5. 5

   Why is the world today confronted with a crisis of availability of and access to freshwater resources?

   Geography · 150 words · 10 marks

6. 6

   How are the fjords formed? Why do they constitute some of the most picturesque areas of the world?

   Geography · 150 words · 10 marks

7. 7

   Why is the South-West Monsoon called 'Purvaiya' (easterly) in Bhojpur Region? How has this directional seasonal wind system influenced the cultural ethos of the region?

   Geography · 150 words · 10 marks

8. 8

   Do you think marriage as a sacrament is loosing its value in Modern India?

   Indian Society · 150 words · 10 marks · Model answer & what aspirants miss

9. 9

   Explain why suicide among young women is increasing in Indian society.

   Indian Society · 150 words · 10 marks · Model answer & what aspirants miss

10. 10

    Child cuddling is now being replaced by mobile phones. Discuss its impact on the socialization of children.

    Indian Society · 150 words · 10 marks

11. 11

    What are the main features of Vedic society and religion? Do you think some of the features are still prevailing in Indian society?

    Art & Culture · 250 words · 15 marks · Model answer & what aspirants miss

12. 12

    What were the major technological changes introduced during the Sultanate period? How did those technological changes influence the Indian society?

    Art & Culture · 250 words · 15 marks

13. 13

    How did the colonial rule affect the tribals in India and what was the tribal response to the colonial oppression?

    Modern History · 250 words · 15 marks

14. 14

    Comment on the resource potentials of the long coastline of India and highlight the status of natural hazard preparedness in these areas.

    Geography · 250 words · 15 marks

15. 15

    Identify and discuss the factors responsible for diversity of natural vegetation in India. Assess the significance of wildlife sanctuaries in rain forest regions of India.

    Geography · 250 words · 15 marks

16. 16

    Why did human development fail to keep pace with economic development in India?

    Indian Society · 250 words · 15 marks

17. 17

    From being net food importer in 1960s, India has emerged as a net food exporter to the world. Provide reasons.

    Geography · 250 words · 15 marks

18. 18

    Does urbanization lead to more segregation and/or marginalization of the poor in Indian metropolises?

    Indian Society · 250 words · 15 marks

19. 19

    Why is caste identity in India both fluid and static?

    Indian Society · 250 words · 15 marks

20. 20

    Discuss the impact of post-liberal economy on ethnic identity and communalism.

    Indian Society · 250 words · 15 marks