UPSC Mains 2021 GS Paper 1 Question Paper
The General Studies Paper 1 of the UPSC Mains is planned to be conducted in the first half of 8th January 2022. In total, Civil Services (Main) Examination consists of nine papers and the exam is conducted for a period of 5 days. UPSC Mains 2021 GS Paper 1 Question Paper Q1. Evaluate the nature of the Bhakti literature and its contribution to Indian culture. (Answer in 150 words) Q2. Trace the rise and growth of socio-religious reform movements with special reference to Young Bengal and Brahmo Samaj. (Answer in 150 words) Q3. Assess the main administrative issues and socio-cultural problems in the integration process of Indian Princely States. (Answer in 150 words) Q4. Differentiate the causes of landslides in the Himalayan region and Western Ghats. (Answer in 150 words) Q5. Despite India being one of the countries of the Gondwanaland, its mining industry contributes much less to its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in percentage. Discuss. (Answer in 150 words) Q6. What are the environmental implications of the reclamation of water bodies into urban land use ? Explain with examples. (Answer in 150 words) Q7. Mention the global occurrence of volcanic eruptions in 2021 and their impact on regional environment. (Answer in 150 words) Q8. Why is India considered as a subcontinent ? Elaborate your answer. (Answer in 150 words) Q9. Examine the uniqueness of tribal knowledge system when compared with mainstream knowledge and cultural systems. (Answer in 150 words) Q10. Examine the role of Gig Economy’ in the process of empowerment of women in India. (Answer in 150 words) Q11. To what extent did the role of the Moderates prepare a base for the wider freedom movement ? Comment. (Answer in 250 words) Q12. Bring out the constructive programmes of Mahatma Gandhi during Non-Cooperation Movement and Civil Disobedience Movement. Q13. There arose a serious challenge to the Democratic State System between the two World Wars.” Evaluate the statement. (Answer in 250 words) Q14. Briefly mention the alignment of major mountain ranges of the world and explain their impact on local weather conditions, with examples. (Answer in 250 words) Q15. How do the melting of the Arctic ice and glaciers of the Antarctic differently affect the weather patterns and human activities on the Earth ? Explain. (Answer in 250 words) Q16. Discuss the multi-dimensional implications of uneven distribution of mineral oil in the world. (Answer in 250 words) Q17. What are the main socio-economic implications arising out of the development of IT industries in major cities of India ? (Answer in 250 words) Q18. Discuss the main objectives of Population Education and point out the measures to achieve them in India in detail. (Answer in 250 words) Q19. What is Cryptocurrency ? How does it affect global society ? Has it been affecting Indian society also ? (Answer in 250 words) Q20. How does Indian society maintain continuity in traditional social values ? Enumerate the changes taking place in it. (Answer in 250 words) Download PDF 2021 Mains GS1 Question Read UPSC 2021 Mains Complete Questions Check Previous Year Question Papers Enroll today with the best civils service academy and take your first step towards your Civils journey. Feel free to reach out to us for any inquiries, collaborations, or support. We’re here to help. join now
GS Paper 3 UPSC 2021 Mains – Question Paper
General Studies Paper 3 GS 3 includes the topics – Technology, Economic Development, Bio-diversity, Environment, Security and Disaster Management GS Paper 3 UPSC 2021 Mains – Question Paper Q1. Explain the difference between computing methodology of India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) before the year 2015 and after the year 2015.(Answer in 150 words) Q2. Distinguish between Capital Budget and Revenue Budget. Explain the components of both these Budgets. (Answer in 150 words) Q3. How did land reforms in some parts of the country help to improve thesocio-economic conditions of marginal and small farmers ? (Answer in 150 words) Q4. How and to what extent would micro-irrigation help in solving India’s water crisis? (Answer in 150 words) Q5. How is S-400 air defence system technically superior to any other system presently available in the world ? (Answer in 150 words) Q6. Explain the purpose of the Green Grid Initiative launched at World Leaders Summit of the COP26 UN Climate Change Conference in Glasgow in November, 2021. When was this idea first floated in the International Solar Alliance (ISA)? (Answer in 150 words) Q7. Describe the key points of the revised Global Air Quality Guidelines (ANGs) recently released by the World Health Organisation (WHO). How are these different from its last update in 2005 ? What changes in India’s National Clean Air Programme are required to achieve these revised standards?(Answer in 150 words) Q8. Discuss about the vulnerability of India to earthquake related hazards. Give examples including the salient features of major disasters caused byearthquakes in different parts of India during the last three decades. (Answer in 150 words) Q9. Discuss how emerging technologies and globalisation contribute to money laundering. Elaborate measures to tackle the problem of money laundering both at national and international levels. (Answer in 150 words) Q10. Keeping in view India’s internal security, analyse the impact of cross-border cyber attacks. Also discuss defensive measures against these sophisticated attacks. (Answer in 150 words) Q11. Do you agree that the Indian economy has recently experienced V-shaped recovery? Give reasons in support of your answer. (Answer in 250 words) Q12. “Investment in infrastruckre il estentral for more rapid and indusive economic growth.” Discuss in the light of India’s experience.(Answer in 250 words) Q13. What are the salient features of the National Food Security Act, 2018? How has the Food Security Bill helped in eliminating hunger and malnutrition in India ? (Answer in 250 words) Q14. What are the present challenges before crop diversification ? How do emerging technologies provide a opportunity for crop diversification ?(Answer in 250 words) Q15. What are the research and developmental achievements in applied biotechnology/? How will these achievements help to uplift the poorer sections of the society? (Answer in 250 words) Q16. The Nobel Prize in Physics of 2014 was jointly awarded to Akasaki, Amano and Nakamura for the invention of Blue LEDs in 1990s. How has this invention impacted the everyday life of human beings ? (Answer in 250 words) Q17. Describe the major outcomes of the 26th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). What are the commitments made by India in this conference ? (Answer in 250 words) Q18. Describe the various causes and the effects of landslides. Mention the important components of the National Landslide Risk Management Strategy. (Answer in 250 words) Q19. Analyse the multidimensional challenges posed by external state and non-state actors, to the internal security of India. Also discuss measures required to be taken to combat these threats. (Answer in 250 words) Q20. Analyse the complexity and intensity of terrorism, its causes, linkages and obnoxious nexus. Also suggest measures required to be taken to eradicate the menace of terrorism. (Answer in 250 words) Read UPSC 2021 Mains Complete Questions Enroll today with the best civils service academy and take your first step towards yours Civils out journey. Feel free to reach to us for any inquiries, collaborations, or support. We’re here to help JOIN NOW
UPSC Mains 2021 GS Paper 2 Questions
UPSC Mains 2021 General Studies GS Paper 2 – Questions UPSC Mains General studies Paper 2 includes polity, governance International Relations and social justiceEnglish and compulsory Indian language, are qualifying in nature. Candidates have to secure at least 25% marks in these two to be eligible for merit ranking, based on the rest of the UPSC Mains papers and the interview. Q1. ‘Constitutional Morality’ is rooted in the Constitution itself and is founded on its essential facets. Explain the doctrine of ‘Constitutional Morality’ with the help of relevant judicial decisions. (Answer in 150 words) 10 Q2. Discuss the desirability of greater representation to women in the higher judiciary to ensure diversity, equity and inclusiveness. (Answer in 150 words) 10 Q3. How have the recommendations of the 14th Finance Commission of India enabled the states to improve their fiscal position?(Answer in 150 words) 10 Q4. To what extent, in your view, the Parliament is able to ensure accountability of the executive in India? (Answer in 150 words) 10 Q5. “Pressure groups play a vital role in influencing public policy making in India.” Explain how the business associations contribute to public policies. (Answer in 150 words) 10 Q6. “Besides being a moral imperative of Welfare State, primary health structure is a necessary pre-condition for sustainable development.” Analyze. (Answer in 150 words) 10 Q7. ‘Earn while you learn’ scheme needs to be strengthened to make vocational education and skill training meaningful.” Comment. (Answer in 150 words) 10 Q8. Can the vicious cycle of gender inequality, poverty and malnutrition be broken through microfinancing of women SHGs? Explain with examples. (Answer in 150 words) 10 Q9. “If the last few decades were of Asia’s growth story, the next few are expected to be of Africa’s.” In the light of this statement, examine India’s influence in Africa in recent years. (Answer in 150 words) 10 Q10. “The USA is facing an existential threat in the form of a China, that is much more challenging than the erstwhile Soviet Union.” Explain. (Answer in 150 words) 10 Q11. The jurisdiction of the Central Bureau of Investigation(CBI) regarding lodging an FIR and conducting probe within a particular state is being questioned by various States. However, the power of States to withhold consent to the CBI is not absolute. Explain with special reference to the federal character of India. (Answer in 250 words) 15 Q12. Though the Human Rights Commissions have contributed immensely to the protection of human rights in India, yet they have failed to assert themselves against the mighty and powerful. Analyzing their structural and practical limitations, suggest remedial measures. (Answer in 250 words) 15 Q13. Analyze the distinguishing features of the notion of Equality in the Constitutions of the USA and India. (Answer in 250 words) 15 Q14. Explain the constitutional provisions under which Legislative Councils are established. Review the working and current status of Legislative Councils with suitable illustrations. (Answer in 250 words) 15 Q15. Do Department -related Parliamentary Standing Committees keep the administration on its toes and inspire reverence for parliamentary control? Evaluate the working of such committees with suitable examples. (Answer in 250 words) 15 Q16. Has digital illiteracy, particularly in rural areas, couple with lack of Information and Communication Technology(ICT) accessibility hindered socio-economic development? Examine with justification. (Answer in 250 words) 15 Q17. “Though women in post-Independent India have excelled in various fields, the social attitude towards women and feminist movement has been patriarchal.” Apart from women education and women empowerment schemes, what interventions can help change this milieu? (Answer in 250 words) 15 Q18. Can Civil Society and Non-Governmental Organizations present an alternative model of public service delivery to benefit the common citizen. Discuss the challenges of this alternative model. (Answer in 250 words) 15 Q19. Critically examine the aims and objectives of SCO. what importance does it hold for India. (Answer in 250 words) 15 Q20. The newly tri-nation partnership AUKUS is aimed at countering China’s ambitions in the Indo-Pacific region. Is it going to supersede the existing partnerships in the region? Discuss the strenght and impact of AUKUS in the present scenario. (Answer in 250 words) 15 Download PDF Mains 2021 GS Paper 2 Questions Read UPSC 2021 Mains Complete Questions Enroll today with the best civils service academy and take your first step towards your Civils journey. Feel free to reach out to us for any inquiries, collaborations, or support. We’re here to help. join now
UPSC Mains 2021 Questions
Public Administration Optional Paper – UPSC Civil Services Mains – 2021 Paper 1 Section A 1 . Answer the following in about 150 words each(a). Governance is about managing self-organizing networks.” Elaborate.(b). Two-dimensional taxonomy was used by Herbert Simon to describe the degree to which decisions are programmed or non-programmed.” Explain.(c). Examine the approach of public service motivation as an inducement to bring the desired level of efficiency in public service delivery.(d). In theory, the ‘civil society organizations’ promote cooperation between people and public service organizations, but in practice, their activities restrict the promotion of government programmes. Analyze.(e). Fayol and Taylor had different management perspectives, while having similar goal of organizational efficiency. Comment. 2. (a). Behavioural approach has been questioned on the basis of its utility in the analysis of administrative problems. Discuss the weaknesses of the approach and the shifts made therein.(b). Public administration has been viewed as a socially embedded process of collective relationship, dialogue and action. Examine the statement in lightof the consensus achieved in the Third Minnowbrook Conference(c). Public-private partnership phenomenon has been transformed into a type scheme or mechanism. Discuss its capacity to overcome of governance future challenges Read Henry Fayol Administrative Theory 3 (a). Integration of different streams of administrative thought to propound universal administrative theory is hindered by the impact of culture. Critically examine.(b). Judicial review, prevention of misuse or abuse of administrative power and provision of suitable remedies are the basic principles of administrative law. Justify as how various organs of the State are able to uphold principles(c). Regulation is an old but increasingly necessary mode of social coordination and politi al intervention into societal processes. Examine it in the context of globalization. 4(a). The new public service model approaches governance on the premises of an active and involved citizenship, wherein the rolc of public officials is to facilitate opportunities for citizens’ engagement in governance. Explain.(b). Neo-Wcberian State involves changing the model of operation of administrative structures into a model focussed on mecting citizens’ needs. Discuss.(c).Nothing in public administration 1s more important, interesting mysterious than leadership. Analvze the statement in the context of strategic leadership. Mains 2021 Public Administration Download. Paper 1 Paper 2 Read All UPSC Mains 2021 Questions Section B Answer the following in about 150 words each : 5. (a). The approach to the study of administration in its environmental context is especially more useful for developing countries. Comment.(b). Gender equality and women’s rights have laid down a strong foundation of development. Elaborate.(c). Performance appraisal nods to be seen beyond the mere suitability of the official for vertical promotion. Explain.(d). It is widely agreed that the government ought to provide the goods that market fails to provide or does not provide efficiently. Argue.(e). MIS has evolved and gone far beyond its traditional advantages due to technological advancements. Comment. 6 (a). Emphasis on cost control and reducing public expenditure has diverted the focus of government budgets from the basic objectives of reallocation of resources, bringing economic stability and promoting social equity. Examine(b). In modern context, Riggsian terms have not altogether disappeared, but have emerged in different forms with newer meanings. Discuss.(c). A striking feature of economic development is an apparent symbiotic evolution of strong States and strong market economies. Analyze. 7 (a) Policy problems are increasingly tending towards being wicked. Discuss the capacity and preparedness of the State to tackle such problems(b) Zero-based budgeting was intended to get away from incrementalism, but ended up being the most incremental of any budgetary approach. Discuss.(c) ICT has immense potential to transform governance and empower citizens. Examine. 8. (a) The successful attainment of SDGs objectives largely depends upon the wisdom, experience and farsightedness of the actors involved and their willingness to cooperate in the implementation process. Analyze(b). Groups work to elevate issues on the policy agenda or seek to deny other groups the opportunity to place issues. In this backeround, discuss the role of interest groups in agenda setting in the developing countries(c). Civil servants generally tend to exhibit the values and ethical framework of the political executives under whom they function. Explain. UPSC Prelims Mock Test Paper 2 1. Answer the following in about 150 words each : 1. (a) The Preamble to the Constitution of India provides a foundational framework of ideals and values for the Indian administration. Discuss. 1. (b) Examine the extent to which the ideal of Constitutionalism as ‘government by limited powers’ has been a functional reality in India. (c) Red-tapism is a major obstacle to the implementation of ‘good governance’. Comment. (d) The role and status of the Speaker in parliamentary system have their foundation in the Speaker’s stance on neutrality. Comment. (e) The Union government develops and practices strategies to administer increasing number of existing local government services by sidelining local initiatives and discretion. Examine. 2. (a). Kautilya envisages protection, welfare and prosperity of the State and its people as the utmost concern of a ruler. In this context, discuss the significance of Kautilya’s emphasis on governing, accountability and justice in contemporary India. 2(b) District Collector is the most important functionary in district administration in India. In light of the above statement, discuss the multidimensional responsibilities of District Collector in effecting coordinated developmental administration in India. 2(c) The role of the Governor is of a sagacious counsellor, mediator and arbitrator rather than that of an active politician. In this context, examine the role of the Governor in state politics in India. 3(a) Recruitment is the cornerstone of the whole public personnel structure and it revolves around the problem of attracting the best. Discuss the essential elements of a good recruitment System 3(b) Traditionally structured administrative systems have outlived their utility. Discuss as how administrative reforms can revamp, restructure and redesign the existing governmental structure to meet the new challenges faced by the Indian administrative set-up. 3(c) The government policy of large scale privatization of the key sectors of economy may affect India’s economic health. Comment. 4 (a) As a constitutionally mandated body the Finance Commission stands at the centre of fiscal federalism. Evaluate the role of Finance Commission in ensuring just and equitable resource sharing among the states and the union. 4 (b) Recent market approaches to public services present serious challenges to traditional and state-sponsored public service values. Evaluate the statement in the context
Factors to consider before choosing an IAS coaching institute
Factors to consider before choosing an IAS coaching institute Preparing for the Civil service examination is a challenging task for the aspirants. It requires a great deal of discipline, hard work and strategies to crack one of the toughest exams in India. The Civil service aspirants seek the guidance of mentors or approach a coaching institute for civil service exam preparation. There are thousands of UPSC IAS coaching Academies in Kerala and the rest of the country. The civil service academies provide proper guidance to civil service aspirants regarding the syllabus, answer writing, time management and more importantly strategies for exam preparation. But one of the main concerns of civil service aspirants is to choose a Civil Service Academy for UPSC exam prep. It also raises the question in their mind as to what makes a good UPSC coaching institute and how to select one. Here are some of the things you need to remember while choosing a UPSC coaching academy for preparing for the UPSC prelims and mains examination. 1. Faculty Faculty is the lifeline of every civil service academy in India. They help to uphold the reputation of the academies. A well-qualified team of teaching staff can guide you better and can make a huge difference in the students’ lives. It is important to inquire about the qualification of the teaching staff, their experience, and the assistance provided by them before joining the academy. 2. Courses Offered and Timings Make sure you thoroughly go through the courses offered by the institute to understand what they are offering. Check with the institute about the duration and timings of the course, availability of the optional subjects of your choice and whether they provide online classes as well. 3. Study Material & Test Series Another thing to check before joining a civil service academy is the study material provided by the coaching institute. You have to inquire about what sort of learning materials they are providing to the students and whether they are providing updated and relevant content for preparing for the civil service examination. Test series are crucial for preparing for Civil service prelims and mains examination. Test series help students to cover the entire syllabus of the civil service exam. It helps the students to understand the exam pattern. Inquire about the test series provided by the academy and whether it comes with the course you are choosing. 4. Past Results and Student Reviews Before joining a civil service coaching institute, make sure to check the past track record of the academy. It is advisable to inquire about the institution and its teaching methods with current students or students who studied there. This will give you an idea about the functioning of the coaching institute and give you an insight into the teaching approach of the academy. 5. Budget-Friendly Fee structure plays a crucial role in choosing an academy. Get yourself familiar with the fees structure of the civil service coaching institute and compare it with the coaching services provided by them. You need to inquire whether test series and other exam related tests come under the amount you are paying or not. Civils360 is one of the best civil service academies in Trivandrum, Kerala that offers the best and affordable UPSC coaching for civil service aspirants. They have a well-qualified and experienced team of mentors who guide students to approach the exam with ease. To know more about the civil service coaching institute in Kerala Enroll today with the best civils service academy and take your first step towards yours Civils out journey. Feel free to reach to us for any inquiries, collaborations, or support. We’re here to help JOIN NOW
UPSC Prelims Mock Test 1 – Indian Polity
Free UPSC Prelims Mock Test 1 – Indian Polity 1. Which of the following statements is/are the characteristics of a constitutional government? It is a form of limited government The authority and powers of the government are restricted by the constitution and legalframeworks The head of state always havenominal powers in aconstitutional government. Select the correct answer using the codes given below (a) 1 only(b) 1 and 2(c) 1 and 3(d) 1,2 and 3 2. Consider the following grounds of ‘President Rule’ in India: Article 356 empowers the President to issue a proclamation, if he is satisfied that a situation has arisen in which the government of a state cannot be carried on in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution. Article 365 says that whenever a state fails to comply with or to give effect to any direction from the Centre, it will be lawful for the president to hold that a situation has arisen in which the government of the state cannot be carried on in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution. Which of the following statements is/are correct? (a) 1 only(b) 2 only(c) Both 1 and 2(d) Neither 1 nor 2 3. Consider the following statements: As per the January 2019 data released by RBI, the gross non- performing assets ratio of public sector banks is more than that of private banks. Under the Basel III norms, the Indian scheduled commercial banks are required to maintain a capital to risk-weighted assets ratio of 9%. Financial Stability Report is a biannual document released by the Department of Economic Affairs. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 1 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 4. ‘To protect monuments, places and objects of artistic or historic interest which are declared to be of national importance’ is included under the Constitution as a: (a) Directive Principles of State Policy(b) Fundamental Duties(c) Fundamental Rights(d) Preamble 5. Which of the following are the advantages of signing the ‘Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership’? It will provide market access for India’s goods and services exports. It can encourage greater investments and technology into India. It will deepen and strengthen India’s economic and technological cooperation with APEC member countries. Select the correct answer using the code given below. (a) 2 only (b) 1 and 2 only(c) 1 and 3 only(d) 1, 2 and 3 6. In which of the following amendment of Indian Constitution introduced a new provision to put restraint on the power of Parliament to extend a proclamation of President’s Rule beyond one year? (a) 41st Amendment Act(b) 42nd Amendment Act(c) 44th Amendment Act(d) 45th Amendment Act 7. With reference to the ‘Agri Export Zones’ (AEZ), consider the following statements: 1. Each AEZ focuses on a particular produce/product located in a contiguous area for the purpose of promoting the exports. 2. The concept of Agri Export Zone was introduced through Agriculture Export Policy, 2018. Select the incorrect answer using the code given below: (a) 1 only(b) 2 only(c) Both 1 and 2(d) Neither 1 nor 2 8. Which of the following was not a feature of the Government of India Act, 1919 ? (a) Provision for a bicameral legislature at the centre.(b) The Legislative Assembly in provinces would have an elected majority and control over ministers.(c) Communal representation was not only retained but extended.(d) Enlarged the electorates both for provinces and imperial legislature. 9.Consider the following statements: The fundamental Rights and Directive Principles together have been described as the ‘Conscience of the Constitution’ by GranvilleAustin DPSP are in the nature ofdirectives to all governments of the country including Central, State as well as local governments. Supreme Court, in the Minerva Mills case, has held that Fundamental Rights and DPSP are distinct scheme and DPSP can override Fundamental Rights. Select the correct answer using the code given below. (a) 1 and 2 only(b) 1 and 3 only(c) 2 and 3 only(d) 1,2and3 10. Right to travel abroad and right to fair trial is guaranteed under: (a) Article 21(b) Article 19(c) Article 20(d) Article 29 11. Which of the following rights given below is/are enjoyed by foreigners in India? 1. Right to freedom of profession 2. Right to information3. Right to free legal aidSelect the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1,2 and 3(b) 2 and 3 only(c) 1 and 2 only(d) 3 only 12. ‘Asia Reassurance Initiative Act ’, seen in the news in the context of affairs of which of the following? (a) China(b) NATO(c) USA(d) European Union 13. Consider the following statements about National Emergency:1. A revocation of emergency by President must be approved by the Parliament within one month.2. The President must revoke a proclamation of emergency if the LokSabha passes a resolution disapproving its continuation.Which of the statements given above is/are correct?(a) 1 only(b) 2 only(c) Both 1 and 2(d) Neither 1 nor 2 14. Consider the following statements about ‘Swastha Nagrik Abhiyan’.1. It aims to create awareness on health issues and influence the health seeking behavior of citizens to encourage healthy lifestyles.2. It is an important component of Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana.Which of the statements given above is/are correct?(a) 1 only(b) 2 only(c) Both 1 and 2(d) Neither 1 nor 2 15.Fundamental Duties were added in 1976. Which among these are Fundamental Duties?1. to protect every monument or place or object of artistic or historic interest2. to protect and improve the environment and to safeguard the forests and wildlife of the country3. to safeguard public property and to abjure violenceSelect the correct answer using the codes given below.(a) 1 and 2 only(b) 2 and 3 only(c) 3 only(d) 1, 2 and 3 16. Consider the following pairs Places in news CountryMannar – Sri LankaManbij – IraqMaidan Wardak – AfghanistanWhich of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?(a) 1 only(b) 1,2 and 3(c) 2 and 3 only(d) 1 and 3 only 17. Fundamental Rights are included under the basic structure doctrine laid down by the judiciary of India. This implies that:1. It cannot be amended by the Parliament in any case without prior permission of
India-Afghanistan Relations
India-Afghanistan Relations India and Afghanistan have a strong relationship based on historical and cultural links. India was among the first non-Communist states to recognize the government installed by the Soviet Union after its 1979 invasion of Afghanistan and also supported successive governments in Kabul until the rise of the Taliban in the 1990s. Like most countries, India never recognized the Taliban’s assumption of power in 1996 (only Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and the United Arab Emirates recognized the Taliban regime). Following the 9/11 attacks and the U.S.-led war in Afghanistan that resulted, ties between India and Afghanistan grew strong once again and thus India restored full diplomatic relations and has provided hundreds of millions of dollars in aid for Afghanistan’s reconstruction and development. Importance of Afghanistan for India Geostrategic Importance: For India, Afghanistan is geostrategically extremely critical in terms of outreach to the Central Asian Republics (CAR). Afghanistan shares a border with India’s Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK). Counterbalance to Pakistan: Afghanistan has been the battleground for an India-Pakistan proxy war since 2001 and India needs Afghanistan to get a better view of Pakistan and hence it is pertinent that it fosters positive relations. Afghanistan also denies strategic depth to Pakistan. The Pakistan-Afghanistan border remaining active denies Pakistan the opportunity of positioning additional military capabilities along its borders with India. India as a Major Power: India’s ability to mentor a nascent democracy will go a long way to demonstrate to the world that India is indeed a major power, especially a responsible one. Economic and Political Aspects: Afghanistan not only serves security and economic interests but is also closely tied to India’s vision of being a regional leader and a great power, coupled with its competition with China over resources. The gas pipeline project TAPI (Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India), which seeks to connect an energy-rich Central to South Asia is a major project concerning India. Afghanistan promises its deposits of energy raw materials and high-value mineral deposits. Indo-Afghan Bilateral Relations at a Glance In the recent past, India-Afghanistan relations have been further strengthened by the Strategic Partnership Agreement (SPA), which was signed between the two countries in 2011. India has employed a soft-power approach in Afghanistan. Commercial Relations: India has been a natural trading partner for Afghanistan and is the largest market in South Asia for its products. The total bilateral trade between India and Afghanistan for the year 2019-20 was at US Dollar 1.5 billion which has grown with the establishment of an air freight corridor in 2017. The balance of trade is heavily tilted in favor of India. Defense Ties: So far India has trained Afghan military personnel and gifted four military helicopters to the Afghan government as per the terms of the accord. On the other hand, India has not sent troops to Afghanistan during the two-decade-long stay by US-led international troops given that groups within the Pakistan-backed Taliban like the Haqqani network have in the past targeted Indian consulates as well as the Indian embassy in Kabul. Assistance for Different Projects with Vested Interests The SPA committed Indian assistance to help rebuild Afghanistan’s infrastructure and institutions, education and technical assistance for capacity-building in many areas, encourage investment in Afghanistan, and provide duty-free access to the Indian market Salma Dam: Also known as the Afghan-India Friendship Dam, the dam in Herat province was completed against many odds and inaugurated in 2016. Zaranj-Delaram Highway: The 218-km highway built by the Border Roads Organisation is of strategic importance to New Delhi, as it provides an alternative route into landlocked Afghanistan through Iran’s Chabahar port since Pakistan denies India’s overland access for trade with Afghanistan. Zaranj is located close to Afghanistan’s border with Iran. Parliament: The Afghan Parliament in Kabul was built by India at US Dollar 90 million. Stor Palace: The Aga Khan Trust for Culture completed the restoration of Stor Palace in Kabul, originally built in the late 19th century, and which was the setting for the 1919 Rawalpindi Agreement by which Afghanistan became an independent country. India has also contributed to the power, health, and education infrastructure in Afghanistan. India in Afghan Peace Talks So far the Indian involvement in Afghanistan has been centered on the needs of the people of Afghanistan and these have been in consultation with Afghanistan’s elected government. India has held the position that any peace process should be Afghan-led, Afghan-owned, and Afghan-controlled. India is also part of the Heart of Asia Conference which aims at settling the Afghan Crisis. India’s Change in Character in Peace Talks In the 1990s and 2000s, India was steadfastly opposed to any dealings with the Taliban. Later its position seems to have evolved over the years. In 2018, when Russia hosted Afghan and Taliban talks, India had sent a diplomatic delegation to Moscow. India also attended the inaugural session of Intra-Afghan Peace Talks at Doha in 2020. The evolution of India’s position is in sync with the evolution of the reality in Afghanistan with China, Russia, and the US reaching out to the Taliban for peace. Way Forward for India To seek peace in Afghanistan, there must be clarity on the kind of ‘end state’ that Afghans, as well as Afghanistan’s regional and international stakeholders, would accept. In the end, the key is to achieve peace within the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan — a system that is defined by its core values related to human rights, women’s rights, democracy, rule of law, and political inclusion. So far, to a large extent, India has been out of Afghan talks, where in contrast, Pakistan has played a pivotal role like the recent Troika Plus Meet. Thus India needs to be present in future multilateral talks and chalk out its strategy in consort with the elected government at Kabul. India needs to accept the Taliban and keeping out of the talks will erode our presence in the West Asian strategic space. Read 2021 UPSC Mains Full Questions JOIN NOW
India Sri Lanka Relations
India Sri Lanka Relations The relationship between India and Sri Lanka is more than 2,500 years old. Both countries have a legacy of intellectual, cultural, religious and linguistic interaction. In recent years, the relationship has been marked by close contacts at all levels. Trade and investment have grown and there is cooperation in the fields of infrastructure development, education, culture and defence. In recent years, significant progress in implementation of developmental assistance projects has further cemented the bonds of friendship between the two countries. The nearly three-decade long armed conflict between the Sri Lankan forces and the LTTE came to an end in May 2009. During the course of the conflict, India supported the right of the Sri Lankan Government to act against terrorist forces. India’s consistent position has been in favour of a negotiated political settlement, which is acceptable to all communities within the framework of a united Sri Lanka and is consistent with democracy, pluralism and respect for human rights. In 1987, the Indo-Sri Lankan accord also called the Rajiv Gandhi-Jayewardene accord was signed. It sought to give autonomy to the provinces of North and East where the Tamil population was in majority. This accord though could not be implemented. However, one of the provisions of this accord was implemented. It was the 13th amendment to the Sri Lankan constitution. Before this amendment, Sri Lanka had a unitary polity. This Amendment Act provided for federalism. It established Provincial Councils and introduced Tamil and Sinhalese as the national languages of Sri Lanka and provided for English as the link language. Economic Cooperation and Development Assistance Sri Lanka has long been a priority destination for direct investment from India. Sri Lanka is one of India’s largest trading partner in SAARC Trade between the two countries grew particularly rapidly after the entry into force of the India-Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement in March 2000. Bilateral trade in 2018 amounted to US $ 4.93 billion. Exports from India to Sri Lanka in 2018 were US$ 4.16billion, while exports from Sri Lanka to India are US$ 767 million. India is one of the largest investors in Sri Lanka with cumulative investments of around USD 1.239 billion. Last few years have also witnessed an increasing trend of Sri Lankan investments into India Sri Lanka is among the major recipients of development assistance from the Government of India. India’s overall commitment stands close to US$ 3 billion, out of which around US$ 560 million are purely in grants. The two nations are part of the Asian Tea Alliance which also has China, Japan and Indonesia, the other two important manufacturers of tea in the Asian continent. Debt Problem of Sri Lanka It is estimated that Sri Lanka’s total external debt is around USD 60 billion China, which regularly indulges in debt trap diplomacy, has already taken over the Hambantota Port from Sri Lanka for a 99-year lease. This was done due to non-repayment of loan. Countries like Srilanka, Surrendering national strategic assets to China is becoming a security threat to India as well. Read GS Full Notes Defence and Strategic Relations: Two navies participate in the SLINEX bilateral naval exercises. The two Armies participate in the Mitra Shakti bilateral exercises. Srilanka plays a major role in India’s ambition towards NET SECURITY PROVIDER IN THE IOR. Srilanka is considered as a strategic location to monitor the International Sea Lanes of Communication. The Hambantota port to which China had access is considered as the String of Pearls initiative developed by China to contain India’s strategic Growth. India and Srilanka participates in various international organisations such as SAARC, BIMSTEC etc. Cultural Relations The People of Indian Origin (PIOs) comprise Sindhis, Gujaratis, Memons, Parsis, Malayalis and Telugu speaking persons who have settled down in Sri Lanka and are engaged in various business ventures. The Cultural Cooperation Agreement has been signed between both the countries. Buddhism is a connecting link between India and Sri Lanka on religious lines. Education is another important area of cooperation between India and Sri Lanka. India offers scholarship slots annually to deserving Sri Lankan students. Tourism also forms an important link between India and Sri Lanka. India is the largest source of market for Sri Lankan tourism. Issues in India-Sri Lanka Ties The Death of Indian Fishermen: Many fishermen from the state of Tamil Nadu cross the maritime boundary to catch fish. It is generally believed that the catch is more prosperous on the Sri Lankan side. In January 2021, Sri Lanka reacted violently and their navy fired upon these fishermen and killed them on the spot. Indian boats have been fishing in the troubled waters of Palk Strait and the Gulf of Mannar for centuries. In 1974 and 1976 treaties were signed between the two countries to demarcate the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL). However, the treaties failed to factor in the hardship of thousands of traditional fishermen who were forced to restrict themselves to a meagre area in their fishing forays Fishermen often risk their lives and cross the IMBL rather than return empty-handed. To deal with the issue of detention of fishermen in a humane manner, India and Sri Lanka have set up a Joint Working Group (JWG) on Fisheries as the mechanism to help find a permanent solution Cancellation of the ECT Project at the Colombo Port Sri Lanka has unilaterally pulled out of a 2019 agreement with India and Japan for developing the strategic East Container Terminal (ECT) at the Colombo Port. India was disappointed with the decision as over 70 per cent of the transshipment business in the terminal is linked to India. Moreover, it is also of geostrategic interest for India, as the terminal is located in proximity to Colombo Port City, being developed by the Chinese. Both India and Japan officially expressed their disappointment with the decision. Jaffna Hybrid Energy Project The MS/Sinosolar-Etechwin joint venture (JV) was awarded the contract to install a hybrid renewable energy system on Nainativu, Delft, and Analaitivu islands off the Jaffna Peninsula. Citing security concerns, India registered a protest over the selection of the Chinese company to execute the project. A group of Sri Lankan Tamil leaders also objected to the project, noting
UPSC / IAS Optional Full Book List
UPSC / IAS Optional – Full Book/ Subject List The Civil Service examination is one of the prestigious and toughest examinations in India. Every year lakhs of aspirants attend the CSE exams to fulfill their dream of being civil servants. The Civil Service exam comprises of two stages: Civil Service Preliminary Exam Civil Service Mains Exam & Interview The candidates will attend the Mains exam after successfully clearing the Prelims exam. The Mains exam consists of 9 papers out of which 2 papers are of qualifying nature. The UPSC has a total of 26 optional subjects for the Civil Service Mains Exam. The candidates have to choose one optional subject for the Mains Exam. UPSC Full Optional Subjects Include Agriculture Animal Husbandry & Veterinary science Anthropology Botany Chemistry Civil Engineering Commerce & Accountancy Economics Electrical Engineering Geography Geology Law History Management Mathematics Mechanical Engineering Medical Science Philosophy Physics Public Administration Psychology Political Science & International Relations Sociology Statistics Zoology Literature of any of the following languages (Assamese, Bengali, Bodo, Dogri, Gujarati, Hindi, Kanada, kashmiri, Konkani, Marathi, Maithili, Malayalam, Manipuri, Nepali, Oriya, Punjabi, Sanskrit, Santhali, Sindhi, Tamil, Telugu, Urdu & English) Here is the booklist recommended by toppers and mentors for UPSC optional subjects. UPSC Optional Booklist for Geography Physical Geography – Majid Hussain Modern Physical Geography – Dr. Alan H. Strahler Certificate Physical and Human Geography – Goh Cheng Leong India – A Comprehensive Geography – D. R. Khullar Oxford Student Atlas Human Geography – Majid Hussain Geomorphology – Savindra Singh UPSC Optional Books for History History of Modern India –Bipan Chandra India’s Struggle For Independence – Bipan Chandra and Others India’s Ancient Past – R.S. Sharma Ashoka and the Decline of the Mauryas – Romila Thapar Spectrum’s A brief History of Modern India Comprehensive history of Medieval India from Twelfth to the Mid Eighteenth Century – Salma Ahmed Farooqui UPSC Optional Books for Medical Science Human Anatomy – B.D.Chaurasia Ganong’s Review of Medical Physiology Ananthanarayan and Paniker’s Textbook of Microbiology Biochemistry – S. Satyanarayana Textbook of Human Neuroanatomy – Inderbir Singh Textbook of Obstetrics – DC Dutta Howkins & Bourne Shaw’s Textbook Of Gynaecology UPSC Optional Books for Anthropology An Introduction to Social Anthropology by D.N.Majumdar & T. N. Madan Physical anthropology by P. Nath Anthropology by Ember and Ember Indian Anthropology – Nadeem Hasnain Tribal India – Nadeem Hasnain An Introduction to Anthropological thought ( Theories) – by Makhan Jha Best Books for UPSC Preparation Check Now UPSC Optional Booklist for Philosophy A History of Philosophy by Frank Thilly Indian Philosophy, A Counter Perspective by Dr Daya Krishna Existentialism: A Reconstruction by David Cooper An Introduction to Indian Philosophy- Dr. Dutta An Introduction to Political Theory by O P Gauba Philosophy of Religion by John H. Hick Contemporary Western Philosophy – Dr. B.K. Lal The voyage of Discovery – Dr. William F. Lawhead UPSC Optional Books for Mathematics Schaum’s outline on Linear Algebra Mathematical Analysis by Malik and Arora Ordinary and Partial Differential Equations by MD Raisinghania Schaum’s outline on Vector Analysis Analytic Geometry – Shanti Narayan, DK Jha, HC Sinha and Sharma UPSC Optional Books for Management Organizational Behavior – Stephen Robbins Marketing Management – Philip Kotler Fundamentals of Management – Madhushree Agarwal, Sanghamitra Bhattacharya, Stephen Robbins, David DeCenzo Cost and Management Accounting – MN Arora Strategic Management – Hill and Jones Management Informations System – Kenneth C. Laudon Financial Management – Prasanna Chandra UPSC Optional Books for Political Science A History Of Political Thought: Plato To Marx – Mukherjee and Susheela Ramaswamy Introduction to Political Theory – O P Gauba Foundations of Indian Political Thought – V R Mehta India’s Foreign policy – V P Dutt Global Politics – Andrew Heywood Politics – Andrew Heywood Does the Elephant Dance?: Contemporary Indian Foreign Policy – David M. Malone UPSC Optional Booklist for Psychology Psychology -Atkinson & Hilgard Textbook of Psychology – Robert Baron Introduction to Psychology -Morgan & King Psychology – Saundra Ciccarelli Social Psychology – Baron & Byrne Theories of Personality Hall & Lindzey Systems & Theories of Psychology – Krawiec & Chaplin Group Dynamics: The Psychology of Small Group Behavior – Marvin E. Shaw UPSC Optional Booklist for Public Administration Administrative Thinkers – Prasad and Prasad New Horizons of Public Administration – Mohit Bhattacharya Public Administration: Administrative Theories and Concepts – Fadia & Fadia Restructuring Public Administration A New Look – Mohit Bhattacharya Public Administration In India – S.R. Maheshwari How to Choose an IAS Academy Books for Sociology Sociology – Anthony Giddens Handbook of Indian Sociology – Veena Das Sociology Themes and Perspectives- Haralambos & Holborn Social change in modern India – M N Srinivas Modern Organization (Foundations of Modern Sociology) – Amitai Etzioni Books for Economics Microeconomics – Ahuja and Koutsyansis Macroeconomics – Ahuja and Mankiw Indian Economy – Ramesh Singh International Economics – Dominick Salvatore Public Finance – H.L. Bhatia Indian Economy – Mishra and Puri Indian Economy- Performance and Policies – Uma Kapila Optional Books for Commerce Accounting Corporate Accounting – Naseem Ahmed Income Tax book by- V.K. Singhania or Girish Ahuja Cost Accounting; Theory & Problems- Maheshwari & Mittal Financial Management Taxation- Income Tax, Service Tax & VAT Indian Financial System- M.Y. Khan Financial Institutions & Markets- L.M. Bhole Human Resource Management- C.B. Gupta Industrial Relations- T.N. Chabra and R.K. Suri Dynamics of Industrial Relations- C.B. Mamoria and Satish Mamoria Organisation Theory and Behaviour- B.P. Singha and T.N. Chabra Books for Agriculture Introduction To Horticulture – N. Kumar Handbook Of Agriculture By ICAR Principles of Agronomy- Yellamananda Reddy Plant Breeding By B.D. Singh Soil Science – D.K Das Genetics By B.D.Singh Physiology By Pandey & Singha Books for Botany Physiology and Biochemistry- Salisbury and Ross Cell And Molecular Biology- De Robertis E.D.P Genetics- Strickberger Economic Botany – S.L. Kochhar The Embryology of Angiosperms – S.S. Bhojwani and Bhatnagar Esau’s Plant Anatomy Books for Law VN Shukla’s Constitution of India revised by M.P. Singh The Constitution of India (Bare Act) – PM Bakshi Introduction to the Constitution of India – DD Basu Administrative Law – I.P.Massey International Law – Malcom N Shaw An
Shyama Prasad Mukherji Rurban Mission (SPMRM)
Shyama Prasad Mukherji Rurban Mission (SPMRM) Shyama Prasad Mukherji Rurban Mission (SPMRM)- The programme is designed to deliver catalytic interventions to rural areas on the threshold of growth. It is now a Centrally Sponsored Scheme. Shared between the Centre and the State in a ratio of 60:40 for Plain area States and 90:10 for Himalayan and NE States. Main objective of the scheme is bridging the rural-urban divide-viz: economic, technological and those related to facilities and services. Under the mission, the Central government in coordination with the district administration has taken measures to bring about multi-layered phased development of the rural gram panchayats and villages on the lines of urban cities with proper civic amenities keeping the soul of villages intact. A ‘Rurban cluster’, would be a cluster of geographically contiguous villages with a population of about 25000 to 50000 in plain and coastal areas and with a population of 5000 to 15000 in desert, hilly or tribal areas. These clusters typically illustrate potential for growth, have economic drivers and derive locational and competitive advantages. Read Also Operation Sadbhavana Objectives of SPMRM Bridging the rural-urban divide-viz: economic, technological and those related to facilities and services. Stimulating local economic development with emphasis on reduction of poverty and unemployment in rural areas. Spreading development in the region. Attracting investment in rural areas. Enroll today with the best civils service academy and take your first step towards your Civils journey. Feel free to reach out to us for any inquiries, collaborations, or support. We’re here to help. JOIN NOW
