2016 UPSC Mains Examination Question Paper Analysis · 2016 UPSC Mains Examination Question Paper Analysis 0Sr. NO Q. N o GS Pape r Subject Topic Question Marks Difficulty Level Nature

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2016 UPSC Mains Examination Question Paper Analysis

0Sr.

NO

Q. No

GS Pape

r Subject Topic Question Marks

Difficulty Level

Nature of Question

Book Source Newspaper Links Comments

1 1 I

Indian Heritage and Culture

Salient aspects of Art Forms

Early Buddhist Stupa-art, while depicting folk motifs and narratives, successfully expounds Buddhist ideals. Elucidate.

12.5 Medium Basic and

Conceptual Question

Indian Art and Culture

NCERT (Class 11) and NIOS

Indian Culture and

Heritage

http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/ancient-buddhist-site-found-in-amaravati/article8612928.ece

Question repeated from 2013 History Optional Paper - Explain as to how the early Buddhist stupa art, while using motifs and narratives and common cultural symbols, succeeded in transforming these themes for expounding Buddhist ideas

2 2 I Indian History

Medieval History

Krishnadeva Raya, the king of Vijayanagar, was not only an accomplished scholar himself but was a also a great patron of learning and literature. Discuss.

12.5 Easy Basic and

Conceptual Question

History Tamil Nadu Text

Book (Class 11)

http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-karnataka/Light-sound-show-focuses-on-Vijayanagar-empire/article16088432.ece


Freedom Struggle

Explain how the upraising of 1857 constitutes an important watershed in the evolution of British policies towards colonial India.

12.5 Easy Basic and

Conceptual Question

History NCERT Book (Old Modern

NCERT), India's

Struggle for Independenc

e by Bipan Chandra

N/A

Every year UPSC asks one or two questions on Indian National Movement, which is very important topic in Indian History.


Freedom Struggle

Discuss the role of women in the freedom struggle especially during the Gandhian phase.

12.5 Easy Basic and

Conceptual Question

History NCERT Book - Class 11 and

Spectrum History

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/emancipation-of-women-discussed-in-the-hindu-1947-indpendence-day-issue/article7540721.ece

Question repeated, UPSC asked similar question in 2013 GS Paper 1 question paper - Defying the barriers of age, gender and religion, the

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Indian women became the torch bearer during the struggle for freedom in India. Discuss.


Freedom Struggle

Highlight the differences in the approach of Subhash Chandra Bose and Mahatma Gandhi in the struggle for freedom.

12.5 Medium

Basic and Current Affairs

oriented

India's Struggle for

Independence by Bipan Chandra

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Netaji-Subhas-Chandra-Bose-wanted-ruthless-dictatorship-in-India-for-20-years/articleshow/46980513.cms http://www.newindianexpress.com/education/edex/2016/aug/15/Make-it-like-the-Mahatma-or-bend-it-like-bose-1509353.html

News related to S.C. Bose death files have been regularly published on news papers

6 6 I Post Independent India

Post-independence consolidation and reorganization

Has the formation of linguistic states strengthened the cause of Indian unity?

12.5 Medium


oriented

Political Science - Class 12 NCERT

http://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/maharashtra-water-crisis-devendra-fadnavis-reservation-protests-bjp-shiv-sena-2781260/ http://www.livemint.com/Opinion/CTainjX8Apy0igpgPvJYjI/Restating-the-case.html

Newspaper debates on formation of linguistic states after telangana separated from Andhra Pradesh

7 7 I World History

History of the world

The anti-colonial struggles in West Africa were led by the new elite of Western -educated Africans. Examine.

12.5 Difficult Expert level

Question

World History -

Arjun Dev N/A

World History Questions are reducing year after year, 2015 question paper had two questions and in 2016 one question only. Especially this question is very difficult as it asks the anti-colonial struggles in 'West Africa', which demands a subject expertise to answer such questions

8 8 I Indian Society

Effects of globalization on Indian society

To what extent globalisation has influenced the core of cultural diversity in India? Explain.

12.5 Easy Basic and

Conceptual Question

Indian Society

NCERT - Class 12

N/A

Every year UPSC asks one Question on Indian Society topic 'Effects of Globalization on Indian Society'. In 2015, UPSC asked Question on Globalization effect on Indian women.


Poverty and developmental issues

“An essential condition to eradicate poverty is to liberate the poor from the process of deprivation.” Substantiate this statement with suitable examples.

12.5(7+5.5)

Medium Basic and

Conceptual Question

Indian Society

NCERT - Class 12

http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/Still-seriously-hungry-and-poor/article16085454.ece

Poverty and Development issues is an important topic in UPSC, Candidates should always be prepared on such topics. It may also helpful in Essay writing too



http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Netaji-Subhas-Chandra-Bose-wanted-ruthless-dictatorship-in-India-for-20-years/articleshow/46980513.cms





http://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/maharashtra-water-crisis-devendra-fadnavis-reservation-protests-bjp-shiv-sena-2781260/






3



Population and associated issues

Why are the tribals in India referred to as ‘the Scheduled Tribes’? Indicate the major provisions enshrined in the Constitution of India for their upliftment.

12.5(4.5+8)

Medium Basic and

Conceptual Question

Indian Society

NCERT - Class 12

http://www.thehindu.com/features/kids/meet-indias-indigenous-people/article7507271.ece


Urbanization, their problems and their remedies

With a brief background of quality of urban life in India, introduce the objectives and strategy of the ‘Smart City Programme.”

12.5(4+8.5)

Medium

Conceptual and

Current Affairs Based

Indian Society

NCERT - Class 12

http://www.thehindu.com/life-and-style/homes-and-gardens/How-realistic-is-the-Smart-Cities-Mission/article16700300.ece http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/comment-article-by-sachin-kalbag-on-liveable-cities-mission-is-what-we-need/article8026138.ece http://www.thehindu.com/features/homes-and-gardens/indias-challenge-of-disordered-urbanisation/article8285145.ece

Question asked based on newspaper analysis on Smart City Programme.


Diversity of India

What is the basis of regionalism? Is it that unequal distribution of benefits of development on regional basis eventually promotes regionalism? Substantiate your answer.

12.5(3.5+9)

Medium

Conceptual and


Political Science - Class 12 NCERT

http://www.thehindu.com/data/Disparity-between-States-growing-Study/article15000661.ece

Regionalism and Development Disparity are important topics as UPSC repeatedly asks in UPSC questions. In 2013 GS Paper 1, UPSC asked, growing feeling of regionalism is an important factor in the generation of demand for a separate state. Discuss. Since, the telagana formation there is debate on regionalism and disparity in development.

13 13 I Indian Geography

Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc.

Discuss the concept of air mass and explain its role in macro-climatic changes.

12.5 Difficult

Conceptual and


Fundamental of Physical Geography - Class XI, Certificate Physical and Human Geography - G.C. Leong

N/A



“The Himalayas are highly prone to landslides.”Discuss the causes and suggest suitable measures of mitigation.

12.5 Medium

Conceptual and


Fundamental of Physical Geography - Class XI, Certificate Physical and Human Geography - G.C. Leong

http://www.hindustantimes.com/india/more-than-12-of-india-s-land-mass-is-prone-to-landslides-gsi/story-UpUKih0Nw7j7paDRR1FViM.html

Question again repeated from Previous Year Question Papers. IN 2013, UPSC asked, Bring out the causes for more frequent landslides in the Himalayas than in Western Ghats.





4




The effective management of land and water resources will drastically reduce the human miseries. Explain.

12.5 Medium Current Affairs Based

N/A

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/effective-water-management-helped-farmers-irrigate-land/article7079445.ece http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/wisenet-ensures-effective-water-management/article8265780.ece http://indianexpress.com/article/explained/how-india-sees-the-coming-crisis-of-water-and-is-preparing-for-it-3049950/ http://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/india-water-crisis-privatisation-of-water-distribution-amrut-2937415/

There was continuous debate happening in the news daily on land and water management, especially post Chennai floods and other regions.

16 16 I World Geography

Distribution of key natural resources across the world

South China Sea has assumed great geopolitical significance in the present context. Comment.

12.5 Easy Current Affairs Based

N/A

http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/All-at-the-South-China-Sea/article14544090.ece http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/South-China-Sea-and-the-nine-dash-line-what-you-need-to-know/article14485046.ece

It was an expected question for the last 2 years, but UPSC asked in 2016. Good Question, but it is two year old news


Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc

Major cities of India are becoming vulnerable to flood conditions. Discuss.


N/A http://www.firstpost.com/living/indias-cities-might-be-expanding-but-are-more-vulnerable-to-natural-disasters-2585016.html http://www.hindustantimes.com/india/vulnerable-to-freak-floods-is-your-city-the-next-chennai/story-zaJ0jeABrU4OKtoBEmr8IJ.html http://cdn.downtoearth.org.in/uploads/0.56859500_1457688308_Preview.pdf


Geographical features

Present an account of the Indus Water Treaty and examine its ecological, economic and political implications in the context of changing bilateral relations.


N/A

http://www.thehindu.com/specials/10-things-to-know-about-Indus-Water-Treaty/article15000672.ece http://indianexpress.com/article/explained/india-pakistan-relation-indus-water-treaty-kishanganga-and-ratle-hydropower-projects-4437894/

Indus Water treaty was in news based on this question were asked.


Distribution of key natural resources

Enumerate the problems and prospects of inland water transport in India.


N/A

http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/mumbai/business/Govt.-plans-major-boost-to-water-transport/article13998276.ece http://www.thehindu.com/business/Ports-to-promote-waterways-as-Centre-plans-policy-rejig/article14583679.ece http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/jal-marg-vikas-project-national-waterway-1-scope-and-limitations-of-the-ambitious-plan-2987827/

Inland waterways were in News as government proposed to increase more inland waterways and ports in India for trade improvement. Based on this topic, there was continuous newspaper debate on News daily.


Geographical features

In what way micro-watershed development projects help in water conservation in drought-prone and semi-arid regions of India?

12.5 Medium

Conceptual and


N/A

http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/indian-agriculture-sector-farmer-subsidies-dryland-farming-drought-india-monsoon-groundwater-recharge-water-harvesting-2926532/ http://planningcommission.nic.in/reports/sereport/ser/stdy_watrshd.pdf



http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/South-China-Sea-and-the-nine-dash-line-what-you-need-to-know/article14485046.ece

http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/South-China-Sea-and-the-nine-dash-line-what-you-need-to-know/article14485046.ece

http://cdn.downtoearth.org.in/uploads/0.56859500_1457688308_Preview.pdf

http://cdn.downtoearth.org.in/uploads/0.56859500_1457688308_Preview.pdf

http://planningcommission.nic.in/reports/sereport/ser/stdy_watrshd.pdf

http://planningcommission.nic.in/reports/sereport/ser/stdy_watrshd.pdf

5


21 1 I Indian Polity

Indian Constitution - Amendments

Discuss the essentials of the 69th Constitutional Amendment Act and anomalies, if any, that have led to recent reported conflicts between the elected representatives and the institution of the Lieutenant Governor in the administration of Delhi. Do you think that this will give rise to a new trend in the functioning of the Indian federal politics?

12.5 Medium


oriented

Indian Polity - Laxmikanth and Introduction to Indian Constitution - DD Basu

http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/Not-a-full-fledged-State/article14553430.ece http://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-delhi-cm-v-lg-much-lies-between-the-lines-of-statute-act-and-rules/ http://www.livemint.com/Politics/Sokc6QdybYtieIxw5eg2ON/In-echoes-of-Delhi-Puducherry-CM-and-Lieutenant-Governor-sq.html

69th amendment was in news as there was turf between the Delhi CM and Lt. Governor of Delhi, over the powers distributed under article 239 AA.

22 2 II Indian Polity

Indian Constitution - Significant provisions

To what extent is Article 370 of the Indian Constitution, bearing marginal note “temporary provision with respect to the State of Jammu and Kashmir”, temporary? Discuss the future prospects of this provision in the context of Indian polity.

12.5 Medium


oriented


http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/the-importance-of-article-370/article7762192.ece http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/Understanding-Article-370/article11640894.ece http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/article-370-is-permanent-rules-jk-high-court/article7749839.ece

Article 370 was in news, there was debate going on removing the temporary provisions provided to the state of Jammu and Kashmir.


Indian Constitution

“The Indian party system is passing through a phase of transition which looks to be full of contradictions and paradoxes.” Discuss.

12.5 Difficult

Basic and Fundamen

tal Question

Indian Polity - Laxmikanth

http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/dumbing-down-of-indian-politics/article8604008.ece http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/Democracy-direct-to-home/article16737914.ece

UPSC asks this kind of question rarely, but still it is very much part of the syllabus. Recently, Indian Political Party system facing some criticism on its functioning.


Appointment to various Constitutional posts, powers, functions and responsibilities of various Constitutional Bodies.

Exercise of CAG’s powers in relation to the accounts of the Union and the States is derived from Article 149 of the Indian Constitution. Discuss whether audit of the Government’s policy implementation could amount to overstepping its own (CAG) jurisdiction.

12.5 Medium


oriented


http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/Empower-not-weaken-the-CAG/article10398867.ece http://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/auditor-under-scrutiny/ http://www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/government-oil-firms-inflated-pahal-subsidy-savings-cag-116081300058_1.html

CAG was in news, as it commented on the PAHAL Scheme and stated Subsidy saving is inflated.



http://www.livemint.com/Politics/Sokc6QdybYtieIxw5eg2ON/In-echoes-of-Delhi-Puducherry-CM-and-Lieutenant-Governor-sq.html

http://www.livemint.com/Politics/Sokc6QdybYtieIxw5eg2ON/In-echoes-of-Delhi-Puducherry-CM-and-Lieutenant-Governor-sq.html

http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/the-importance-of-article-370/article7762192.ece






http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/dumbing-down-of-indian-politics/article8604008.ece

http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/dumbing-down-of-indian-politics/article8604008.ece

http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/Democracy-direct-to-home/article16737914.ece

http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/Democracy-direct-to-home/article16737914.ece

http://www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/government-oil-firms-inflated-pahal-subsidy-savings-cag-116081300058_1.html



6



Indian Constitution - Significant provisions and basic structure.

Discuss each adjective attached to the word ‘Republic’ in the ‘Preamble’. Are they defendable in the present circumstances?

12.5 Difficult

Basic and Fundamen

tal Question


N/A

Basic question only, but defining each word in preamble and explaining the present relevance makes question bit difficult.


Issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure

What was held in the Coelho case? In this context, can you say that judicial review is of key importance amongst the basic features of the Constitution?

12.5 Difficult

Basic and Fundamen

tal Question


http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/Restoring-the-Supreme-Court%E2%80%99s-exclusivity/article11557294.ece http://www.financialexpress.com/opinion/editorial-ninth-schedule-again/231462/

Debate on Schedule 9 was going on news daily and the Cohelo Judgement was discussed in detail too.


Indian Constitution- Historical underpinnings

Did the Government of India Act, 1935 lay down a federal constitution? Discuss.

12.5 Medium

Basic and Fundamen

tal Question


N/A

Looks like history question but it is part of GS paper 2 syllabus under Historical underpinnings.


Statutory, regulatory and various quasi-judicial bodies.

What is quasi-judicial body? Explain with the help of concrete examples.

12.5 Difficult

Basic and Fundamen

tal Question


N/A

Question looks simple, what makes question difficult is recalling important quasi-judicial body and defining Quasi-judicial body.

29 9 II Social Justice

Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector or Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources.

Professor Amartya Sen has advocated important reforms in the realms of primary education and primary health care. What are your suggestions to improve their status and performance?

12.5 Medium

Basic and Fundamen

tal Question

Governance in India by Laxmikanth

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/NDA-has-failed-on-reforms-says-Amartya-Sen/article13988429.ece http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-opinion/Why-healthcare-access-eludes-India/article14635228.ece

UPSC clearly mentioned in syllabus Issues relating to Health, Education etc. Candidates has to be prepared on those topics. It is not necessary what Amartya Sen told about education or health sector, candidates can write on education and health based on their preparation.

30 10 II Governance

Development processes and the development industry- the role of NGOs, SHGs, various groups and

“In the Indian governance system, the role of non-state actors has been only marginal.” Critically examine this statement.

12.5 Medium

Basic and Fundamen

tal Question


http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/nonstate-actors-who-bring-nations-closer/article4273803.ece

It is a static question as role of non-state actor on Indian governance was mentioned in UPSC mains syllabus.



http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/NDA-has-failed-on-reforms-says-Amartya-Sen/article13988429.ece

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/NDA-has-failed-on-reforms-says-Amartya-Sen/article13988429.ece

http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-opinion/Why-healthcare-access-eludes-India/article14635228.ece

http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-opinion/Why-healthcare-access-eludes-India/article14635228.ece



7


associations, donors, charities, institutional and other stakeholders.

31 11 II Governance

Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.

“Effectiveness of the government system at various levels and people’s participation in the governance system are inter-dependent/” Discuss their relationship in the context of India.

12.5 Medium

Basic and Fundamen

tal Question


http://planningcommission.gov.in/reports/genrep/bkpap2020/15_bg2020.pdf

32 12 II Governance


In the integrity index of Transparency International, India stands very low. Discuss briefly the legal, political, social and cultural factors that have caused the decline of public morality in India.

12.5 Medium


oriented


http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/India-ranks-76-in-Corruption-Perception-Index/article14022729.ece

33 13 II Governance


Has the Indian governmental system responded adequately to the demands of Liberalization, Privatization and Globalization started in 1991? What can the government do to be responsive to this important change?

12.5 Easy Current Affairs

oriented N/A

http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/How-the-economy-found-its-feet/article14506275.ece http://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/life-style/25-years-of-reforms-india-after-liberalisation-2932683/ http://www.livemint.com/Opinion/oI2rFWRjyyj7Wl24WGRN0I/25-years-of-economic-reforms.html

2016 witnessed 25 year of Indian Economic liberation and 1991 financial crisis. There were numerous articles on newspapers on Indian economic LPG era of last 25 years.

34 14 II Governance

Role of civil services in a democracy.

“Traditional bureaucratic structure and culture have hampered the process of socio-economic development in India.” Comment.

12.5 Medium

Basic and Fundamen

tal Question

Governance in India by

Laxmikanth N/A

UPSC asks one question every year based on Syllabus topic, role of Civil Services in India.







http://www.livemint.com/Opinion/oI2rFWRjyyj7Wl24WGRN0I/25-years-of-economic-reforms.html

http://www.livemint.com/Opinion/oI2rFWRjyyj7Wl24WGRN0I/25-years-of-economic-reforms.html

8




Examine the main provisions of the National Child Policy and throw light on the status of its implementation.

12.5 Medium Current Affairs

oriented N/A

http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=118660 http://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/child-labour-bill-unequal-childhood-family-workers-free-education-2941209/ http://indianexpress.com/article/india/programmes-for-children-have-to-take-centre-stage-in-national-policy-making-pranab-mukherjee-4420322/

Child policy is basic question and it was also in news with the recent amendment Child Labour Act



“Demographic Dividend in India will remain only theoretical unless our manpower becomes more educated, aware, skilled and creative.” What measures have been taken by the government to enhance the capacity of our population to be more productive and employable?


N/A

http://www.thehindu.com/features/education/Bridge-the-skills-gap/article14556912.ece http://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/re-skilling-skill-development/ http://www.livemint.com/Politics/CnPIltKBekTpN81EIxSWcM/Skill-development-Govt-wants-industry-to-play-a-bigger-role.html

Demographic dividend is an important topic, as India is youngest nation and government also frames various policies based on demographic like Skill India mission to utilize the younger population strength of India. Every year, Economic Survey also discusses on India's demographic dividend.

37 17 II International Relations

Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate.

“The broader aims and objectives of WTO are to manage and promote international trade in the era of globalization. But the Doha round of negotiations seem doomed due to differences between the developed and the developing countries.” Discuss in the Indian perspective.


N/A

http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/editorial-on-wto-meeting-in-nairobi-an-opportunity-missed-at-nairobi/article8022370.ece http://indianexpress.com/article/explained/deal-or-no-deal/ http://www.livemint.com/Politics/oQKzCxYOn2kw76evW6xpWP/Developing-nations-stand-firm-on-continuing-Doha-Round-talks.html

Once in two years UPSC asks Doha round of WTO talks, as this Doha round of talks was in news regularly. It is also important topic as India was leading the developing nations.


Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests.

Evaluate the economic and strategic dimensions of India’s Look East Policy in the context of the post Cold War international scenario.


N/A http://www.mea.gov.in/distinguished-lectures-detail.htm?209 http://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/pm-narendra-modi-look-east-policy-modi-act-east-policy-asean-summit-3019123/

Government of India changed the Policy of Look East to Act East, as East Asia is getting significance in Asian region and India wants to promote better relationship between North East India and Asian countries.



9



India and its neighborhood- relations.

“Increasing cross-border terrorist attacks in India and growing interference in the internal affairs of member-states by Pakistan are not conducive for the future of SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation).” Explain with suitable examples.


N/A

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/India-steps-up-pressure-to-boycott-SAARC-meet-in-Pak./article15002572.ece http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/to-isolate-pakistan-in-neighbourhood-india-pulls-out-of-islamabad-saarc-summit-3053697/

2016 India boycotted SAARC Summit in Islamabad and stated reason as growing cross-border terrorism, Pakistan not addressing the terrorism.


Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate.

What are the aims and objectives of the McBride Commission of the UNESCO? What is India’s position on these?

12.5 Difficult Basic

Question N/A http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php/MacBride_Commission

It is a difficult question, as McBrige commission is specific commission in UN to study of Communication Problems, and it is difficult to study all the commission and organizations in UN for UPSC exams.

41 1 III Economic Development

Effects of liberalization on the economy, changes in industrial policy and their effects on industrial growth.

How globalization has led to the reduction of employment in the formal sector of the Indian economy? Is increased informalization detrimental to the development of the country?

12.5 Medium Basic

Question

Economics NCERT - Class 11 and Indian

Economy - Ramesh

Singh

http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/A-job-for-every-Indian/article14299146.ece http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/farm-policy-the-political-economy-of-why-reforms-elude-agriculture-2981939/ http://www.livemint.com/Opinion/4kxau3CejBat9uAIEakIKK/Formalizing-Indias-informal-economy.html

Post liberalization, economic experts were criticizing India's economic policies and termed India has jobless economic growth.


Government Budgeting

Women empowerment in India needs gender budgeting. What are the requirements and status of gender budgeting in the Indian context?

12.5 Medium Basic

Question

Indian Economy -

Ramesh Singh

http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/a-budget-for-women/article6929819.ece http://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/jan-dhan-aadhaar-mudra-loans-rural-women-empowerment-sbi-2926451/


Inclusive growth and issues arising from it.

Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) is necessary for bringing unbanked to the institutional finance fold. Do you agree with this for financial inclusion of the poor section of the Indian society? Give arguments to justify your opinion.


oriented N/A

http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/pradhan-mantri-jandhan-yojana-an-ambitious-plan-for-financial-inclusion/article6329379.ece http://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/editorials/jan-dhan-yojana-zero-balance-account-problems-investigation-rupay-debit-cards-aadhaar-3029844/ http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/opinion/jan-dhan-yojana-fraud-should-be-curbed/article9169214.ece

PM Jan Dhan Yojana launched to achieve financial inclusion in country but due financial illiteracy among poor section there was increasing fraudulent activities that raised questions on PMJDY scheme.



http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php/MacBride_Commission

http://www.livemint.com/Opinion/4kxau3CejBat9uAIEakIKK/Formalizing-Indias-informal-economy.html

http://www.livemint.com/Opinion/4kxau3CejBat9uAIEakIKK/Formalizing-Indias-informal-economy.html

10



Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways, etc.

What are ‘Smart Cities’? Examine their relevance for urban development in India. Will it increase rural-urban differences? Give arguments for ’Smart Villages’ in the light of PURA and RURBAN Mission.


oriented N/A

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/need-to-focus-on-smart-villages-not-smart-cities-azam-khan/article7630786.ece http://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/city-must-be-equitable-not-smart/ http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-others/smart-villages-not-smart-cities-are-need-of-the-hour-tarun-gogoi-tells-pm-narendra-modi/ http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/opinion/why-a-smart-villages-scheme-makes-sense/article8844976.ece

Many states criticized Smart City initiatives and said India needed smart villages. There was news daily debates last year on this topic. Straight forward question from news dailies.


Effects of liberalization on the economy, changes in industrial policy and their effects on industrial growth.

Justify the need for FDI for the development of the Indian economy. Why there is gap between MOUs signed and actual FDIs? Suggest remedial steps to be taken for increasing actual FDIs in India.

12.5 Difficult


oriented

Indian Economy -

Ramesh Singh

http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/Is-FDI-really-a-gift-horse/article14463394.ece http://www.livemint.com/Politics/Uoqjh52G8jkIuf94k3GPjM/Why-FDI-inflows-to-India-are-slowing-down.html


Inclusive growth and issues arising from it.

Comment on the challenges for inclusive growth which include careless and useless manpower in the Indian context. Suggest measures to be taken for facing these challenges.

12.5 Medium Basic

Question


Economy - Ramesh

Singh

http://indianexpress.com/article/explained/wef-reports-thumbs-down-for-india-on-inclusive-growth-provides-no-roadmap-for-solutions/ http://www.thehindu.com/business/inclusive-growth-a-key-factor/article8258219.ece

Direct Question from UPSC syllabus.


Major crops cropping patterns in various parts of the country, different types of irrigation and irrigation systems storage, transport and marketing of agricultural produce and issues and related constraints.

What is water-use efficiency? Describe the role of micro-irrigation in increasing the water-use efficiency.

12.5 Medium Basic

Question


Economy - Ramesh

Singh

http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-opinion/water-will-continue-to-be-scarce/article8520927.ece http://www.livemint.com/Politics/BkgERIIfG77UzWZRC3HsAM/Microirrigation-lags-far-behind-potential-shows-study.html

India is facing water resource shortage and experts opined that Agriculture sector needs increased water use efficiency by way of micro-irrigation.



http://indianexpress.com/article/explained/wef-reports-thumbs-down-for-india-on-inclusive-growth-provides-no-roadmap-for-solutions/




11



Major crops cropping patterns in various parts of the country, different types of irrigation and irrigation systems storage, transport and marketing of agricultural produce and issues and related constraints.

What is allelopathy? Discuss its role in major cropping systems of irrigated agriculture.

12.5 Difficult Expert level

Question


Economy - Ramesh

Singh

N/A

Difficult question asked by UPSC on agriculture irrigation. Without understanding aleopathy it is difficult to approach this question.


Land reforms in India.

Discuss the role of land reforms in agricultural development. Identify the factors that were responsible for the success of land reforms in India.

12.5 Easy Basic

Question


Economy - Ramesh

Singh

http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/The-ground-beneath-our-feet/article15477574.ece http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/GST-land-reforms-key-to-boost-India%E2%80%99s-economic-growth-IMF/article14298950.ece

Straight forward question from the UPSC syllabus.


Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies and minimum support prices.

Given the vulnerability of Indian agriculture to vagaries of nature, discuss the need for crop insurance and bring out the salient features of the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY).


oriented N/A

http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=134432 http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/Govt-approves-new-crop-insurance-plan-for-farmers/article13997360.ece http://indianexpress.com/about/pradhan-mantri-fasal-bima-yojana/

Government launched new crop insurance scheme called fasal bima yojana for the benefit of agricultural sector. UPSC asked question based on current events.


Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways, etc.

Give an account of the current status and the targets to be achieved pertaining to renewable energy sources in the country. Discuss in brief the importance of National Programme on Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs).


Oriented N/A

http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=114328 http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/govts-led-drive-to-save-over-rs-45000-crore/article8285361.ece

Current Affair based question on new government scheme on LEDs.



http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/The-ground-beneath-our-feet/article15477574.ece

http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/The-ground-beneath-our-feet/article15477574.ece

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/GST-land-reforms-key-to-boost-India%E2%80%99s-economic-growth-IMF/article14298950.ece

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/GST-land-reforms-key-to-boost-India%E2%80%99s-economic-growth-IMF/article14298950.ece

12


52 12 III Science and Technology

Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, robotics, nano-technology, bio-technology.

Discuss India’s achievements in the field of Space Science and Technology. How the application of this technology has helped India in its socio-economic development?


Oriented N/A

http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-in-school/A-fruitful-year-for-ISRO/article16921536.ece http://indianexpress.com/article/research/isro-rlv-td-history-of-indias-space-research-space-activities-space-journeys-isro-launches-reusable-launch-vehicle-spacecraft-2815247/

ISRO made many successful launches in the last decade or so with launch of Chandrayan, MoM, NaVic etc. and getting praises from techological experts.

53 13 III Science and Technology

Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, robotics, nano-technology, bio-technology.

Why is nanotechnology one of the key technologies of the 21st century? Describe the salient features of Indian Government’s Mission on Nanoscience and Technology and the scope of its application in the development process of the country.

12.5 Medium


oriented

Computers and

Communication

Technology- Class XI NCERTs

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/karnataka/%E2%80%98Nanotechnology-changing-lives%E2%80%99/article14556821.ece http://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/IIT-team-with-a-Midas-touch-on-a-nano-scale/article16441866.ece

It is a syllabus based question.


Linkages between development and spread of extremism.

Rehabilitation of human settlements is one of the important environmental impacts which always attracts controversy while planning major projects. Discuss the measures suggested for mitigation of this impact while proposing major developmental projects.

12.5 Medium

Basic and Fundamen

tal Question

Second ARC Report

http://arc.gov.in/arc_7th_report/arc_7th_report.htm

It is a basic question based on syllabus but students need to write good quality answers.

55 15 III Disaster management

Disaster and disaster management.

The frequency of urban floods due to high intensity rainfall is increasing over the years. Discussing the reasons for urban floods, highlight the mechanisms for preparedness to reduce the risk during such events.


Oriented N/A

http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/columns/homeland-column-chennai-and-indias-urban-nightmares/article7958641.ece http://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/india-urban-planning-agrarian-settlement-urban-floods-monsoon-poor-drainage-system-3061984/ http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/national/coastal-cities-prone-to-storm-surges-flooding/article8010932.ece

Urban Floods like Chennai, Mumbai and other major cities witnessed floods, based on this there was series of articles on Newsdaily.



http://arc.gov.in/arc_7th_report/arc_7th_report.htm

13


56 16 III Disaster management

Disaster and disaster management.

With reference to National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) guidelines, discuss the measures to be adopted to mitigate the impact of recent incidents of cloudbursts in many places of Uttarakhand.


Oriented N/A

http://www.ndma.gov.in/images/guidelines/flood.pdf http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/NDMA-suggests-10-point-plan-to-tackle-floods/article14596142.ece http://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/india-natural-calamities-disasters-chennai-uttarakhand-mumbai-floods/ http://www.hindustantimes.com/analysis/the-new-national-disaster-management-plan-has-several-flaws/story-LrHOFHXg9gwrtOgYjXJDrK.html

Based on Uttarkand Floods NDMA proposed some new guidelines for better flood and disaster management.

57 17 III Security

Security challenges and their management in border areas.

The terms ‘Hot Pursuit’ and ‘Surgical Strikes’ are often used in connection with armed action against terrorist attacks. Discuss the strategic impact of such actions.


Oriented N/A

http://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/uri-attack-aftermath-india-pakistan-policy-narendra-modi-government-3053395/ http://www.livemint.com/Politics/CPzBbSRml0G2f5BTiVCn0N/What-is-a-surgical-strike.html

In 2016, India Army conducted Surgical strike against Pakistan Army camps for border infiltration.

58 18 III Security

linkages of organized crime with terrorism.

‘Terrorism is emerging as a competitive industry over the last few decades.” Analyse the above statement.


Oriented N/A

http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/ideology-and-the-rise-of-terror/article6805736.ece http://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/used-by-terror/

With the growing terrorism across world by ISIS, Taliban and other terrorist activities has increased in the last decades.

59 19 III Security

Challenges to internal security through communication networks, role of media and social networking sites in internal security challenges.

Border management is a complex task due to difficult terrain and hostile relations with some countries. Elucidate the challenges and strategies for effective border management.

12.5 Easy


oriented

N/A

http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/Gazing-at-a-longer-horizon/article16438377.ece http://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/web-edits/for-india-internal-security-a-greater-challenge-despite-border-skirmishes/ http://pib.nic.in/feature/feyr2001/fsep2001/f170920011.html

India faces border challenges from Pakistan, China and Bangladesh. In 2016, there were more border disputes between Pakistan and China for India.

60 20 III Security

Challenges to internal security through communication networks, role of media and social networking sites in internal security challenges.

Use of internet and social media by non-state actors for subversive activities is a major security concern. How have these been misused in the recent past? Suggest effective guidelines to curb the above threat.

12.5 Medium


oriented

N/A

http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/bureaucracy-military-ties-use-of-social-media-worrying-defence-minister-manohar-parrikar-3736303/ http://indianexpress.com/article/technology/tech-news-technology/indian-users-complacent-when-it-comes-to-cyber-security-norton-report/ http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/opinion/we-need-a-robust-cyber-security-policy/article9107956.ece



http://www.ndma.gov.in/images/guidelines/flood.pdf








http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/opinion/we-need-a-robust-cyber-security-policy/article9107956.ece







14


61 1A

IV Ethics Ethics and Human Interface

Explain how ethics contributes to social and human well being?

10 Easy Basic and Syllabus based

Chronicles Lexicon for

Ethics N/A

Basic question based on the syllabus, conceptual understanding in needed to answer such questions

62 1B

IV Ethics

Aptitude and foundational values for Civil Service , integrity, impartiality and non-partisanship, objectivity, dedication to public service, empathy, tolerance and compassion towards the weakersections.

Why should impartiality and non-partisanship be considered as foundational values in public services, especially in the present day socio-political context? Illustrate your answers with examples.

10 Medium Basic and Syllabus based


Ethics N/A

Basic question based on the syllabus, conceptual understanding in needed to answer such questions

63 2A

IV Ethics

accountability and ethical governance; strengthening of ethical and moral values in governance

What do you understand by the terms 'governance', 'good governance' and 'ethical governance'



Ethics N/A

Basic question based on the syllabus, conceptual understanding in needed and also demands individual opinion in answer writing.

64 2B

IV Ethics

Human Values – lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders

Discuss Mahatma Gandhi's concept of seven sins.

10 Difficult Basic and Syllabus based


Ethics N/A

If candidates knows seven sins of Mahatma Gandhi, then it is easy to write or else it is difficult to answer such questions.

65 3A

IV Ethics

Human Values – lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders

Analyse John Rawl's concept of Social Justice in Indian context.



Ethics N/A

Without understanding John Rawl's concept of Social Justice, answering this question makes difficult.

66 3B

IV Ethics

Probity in Governance: Codes of Ethics, Codes of Conduct.

Discuss Public Services code as recommended by 2nd Administrative Reforms Commission.



Ethics N/A Syllabus based question.



15


67 4A

IV Ethics

Probity in Governance: challenges of corruption

"Corruption causes misuse of government treasury, administrative inefficiency and obstruction in the path of national development". Discuss Kautalya's views



Ethics N/A

Corruption issues is mentioned in Syllabus but question asked is kautalya's views.

68 4B

IV Ethics

Attitude: social influence and persuasion.

How could social influence and persuasion contribute to the success of Swatch Bharat Abhiyaan?

10 Medium


oriented


Ethics N/A

UPSC is trying to link current issues with ethics.

69 5 IV Ethics

laws, rules, regulations and conscience as sources of ethical guidance

Law and ethics are considered to be the two tools for controlling human conduct so as to make it conducive to the civilised social existence. (a) Discuss how they achieve this objective (b) Giving examples, show how the two differ in their approches

10 Easy Basic and Syllabus based



70 6 IV Ethics

Attitude: content, structure, function; its influence and relation with thought and behaviou

Our attitudes towards life, work, other people and society are generally shaped unconsciously by the family and the social surroundings in which we grow up. Some of these unconsciously acquired attitudes and values are often undesirable in the citizens of a modern democratic and egalitarian society.(a) Discuss such undesirable values prevalent in today’s educated Indians.(b) How can such undesirable attitudes be changed and socio-ethical values considered necessary in






16


public services be cultivated in the aspiring and serving civil servants?

71 7 IV Ethics

Emotional intelligence-concepts, and their utilities and application in administration and governance.

Anger is a harmful negative emotion. It is injurious to both personal life and work life. (a) Discuss how it leads to negative emotions and undesirable behaviours. (b) How can it managed and controlled?




72 8 IV Ethics

Public/Civil service values and Ethics in Public administration

“Max Weber said that it is not wise to apply to public administration the sort of moral and ethical norms we apply to matters of personal conscience. It is important to realise that the State bureaucracy might possess its own independent bureaucratic morality.” Critically analyse this statement.



Ethics N/A

It is a public administration topic, it demands understanding of Max Weber's view on public administration.



17


General Analysis of 2016 Mains GS Papers

Most of the questions asked in 2016 mains were syllabus based.

In GS paper 1, most of the questions were directly asked from syllabus topics.

Few History questions were repetitive from previous year mains question papers.

Geography questions were more tilted towards current affairs oriented.

Society questions were also repetive and syllabus based.

GS Paper 2 and 3 are more current affairs based questions but for answering those questions it needed conceptual understanding of the topics.

As usual, UPSC set the question paper in more dynamic way but most of the questions were on the expected lines on the last one year current affairs based.

But still there are few questions in each paper, which is quite difficult to answer, since it demands expert level of understanding.

Those candidates who have followed last one to two years’ current affairs correctly, for them this question paper would have been cake walk.

Ethics paper, still need to be exploited, only 4 years of introduction, it is emerging in nature.

Case studies need more individual abilty to analyse the issue than need of theoretical knowledge.

Overall, one who regularly practiced answer writing based on current events would have definitely got interview call.

Difficulty Analysis

GS Paper 1 GS Paper 2 GS Paper 3

Difficulty level

Percentage Number of Questions Marks

Easy 35 7 87.5

Medium 55 11 137.5

Difficult 5 1 12.5

Easy37%

Medium58%

Difficult5%

GS PAPER 1 (DIFFICULT LEVEL)

Easy Medium Difficult

Easy5%

Medium70%

Difficult25%


Easy Medium Difficult

Easy40%

Medium50%

Difficult10%


Difficulty level

Percentage Number of Questions

Marks

Easy 40 8 100

Medium 50 10 125

Difficult 10 2 25

Difficulty level

Percentage Number of Questions

Marks

Easy 5 1 12.5

Medium 70 14 175

Difficult 25 5 62.5



18


Topic Analysis

GS Paper 1 GS Paper 2 GS Paper 3

Syllabus Topics Percentage No of Questions Marks

Art and Culture 5 1 12.5

Modern India 20 4 50

Post Independent India 5 1 12.5

World History 5 1 12.5

Society 25 5 62.5

Geography 40 8 100

5%

20%

5%5%

25%

40%

GS PAPER 1 (TOPIC ANALYSIS)

Art and Culture Modern India

Post Independent India World History

Society Geography

40%

25%

15%

20%


Polity Governace

Social Justice International Relations

10%

60%

20%

10%


Technology Economic Development

Security Disaster management


Technology 10 2 25

Economic Development 60 12 150

Security 20 4 50

Disaster management 10 2 25


Polity 40 8 100

Governace 25 5 62.5

Social Justice 15 3 37.5

International Relations 20 4 50



Documents

2016 UPSC Mains Examination Question Paper Analysis · 2016 UPSC Mains Examination Question Paper Analysis 0Sr. NO Q. N o GS Pape r Subject Topic Question Marks Difficulty Level Nature