UPSC Mains 2026 Geography Optional Paper II questions

28 questions from the Civil Services (Main) Examination 2026. Official UPSC paper (PDF) · All Geography Optional PYQs

1. On the outline map of India provided to you, mark the location of all of the following. Write in your QCA Booklet the significance of these locations, whether physical / commercial / economic / ecological / environmental / cultural, in no more than 30 words for each entry

   20 marks

2. Wea a. 1(a) & faa For question no.

3. Briefly describe the origin, distribution and economic significance of Cuddapah and Dharwar rock systems of India.

   10 marks

4. Explain the vertical zonation of vegetation of the Himalayas.

   10 marks

5. Describe the geographical conditions necessary for the growth of mangrove forests in India. Explain their ecological and economic significance.

   10 marks

6. The relationship between El Nifio and the Indian monsoon is becoming complex under the conditions of global warming. Critically examine.

   20 marks

7. Discuss the role of the private sector in the technological advancements of the defence industry in India.

   15 marks

8. Explain the global supply chain for the fertilizer industry in India. How do international prices of key inputs affect domestic production?

   15 marks

9. Examine the causes and consequences of crop diversification in India. How can crop diversification contribute to sustainable agriculture?

   20 marks

10. India's vulnerability to maritime choke-points has increased sharply over time due to geopolitical tensions. Discuss.

    15 marks

11. Efficient use of energy resources can resolve the energy crisis in India. Comment.

    15 marks

12. Analyse the spatial distribution of India's automobile industry. How have the clusters like Chennai, Pune and Gurugram emerged as key auto-hubs?

    20 marks

13. Describe the role of energy pipelines in the industrial development and in reducing the regional imbalances in India.

    15 marks

14. Divide India into agro-ecological regions and highlight the salient features of any one of them.

    15 marks

15. Analyse the consequences of circular migration in India. How does it influence both rural development and the urban economy?

    10 marks

16. Explain the government initiatives for the redevelopment of slum areas in the mega cities of India.

    10 marks

17. Discuss how Panchayati Raj institutions play a crucial role in the empowerment of women in India.

    10 marks

18. "India's approach to the Indian Ocean is cooperative rather than coercive." Critically examine the statement.

    10 marks

19. Disaster risk reduction and community resilience are the two pillars that need to be prioritized in the flood prone areas of India. Critically analyse.

20. Examine the trends in fertility rates across Indian states over time. How are they projected to evolve by 2050?

    20 marks

21. Soil and water conservation are the major challenges in the development of hill areas of India. Explain.

    15 marks

22. With reference to the international boundary between India and Bangladesh, discuss the related issues and challenges.

    15 marks

23. Why is it difficult to improve the quality of air during the winter season in the Gangetic plain? Critically evaluate with suitable examples.

    20 marks

24. Deforestation in the upper reaches of a river augments the magnitude of soil erosion. Elaborate your answer citing the example of any North Indian river.

    15 marks

25. Assess the role of geographical isolation in preserving tribal culture, as well as hindering their socio-economic development in India.

    15 marks

26. Critically examine the strategic, economic and ecological impacts of the proposed 'Great Nicobar Project'.

    20 marks

27. FAST St BUS SHAH Sere Ate fear aaT SATSTT Poor road infrastructure and inadequate public transport system remain the key issues in Indian metropolitan areas. Discuss with suitable examples.

    15 marks

28. Critically examine the environmental and economic consequences of India's rise as a global data centre hub.

    15 marks