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UPSC Mains 2023 GS 1 Question Paper (General Studies I)

All 20 questions from the UPSC Civil Services Mains 2023 General Studies I paper, transcribed from the official question paper and tagged by syllabus topic. Format: 150 words (Q1–10, 10 marks) · 250 words (Q11–20, 15 marks). Download the original question paper PDF.

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Q1 Geography (Physical, Resources & Phenomena) · 10 marks

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

Q2 Modern Indian History · 10 marks

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

Q3 World History · 10 marks

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

Q4 Geography (Physical, Resources & Phenomena) · 10 marks

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

Q5 Geography (Physical, Resources & Phenomena) · 10 marks

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

Q6 Geography (Physical, Resources & Phenomena) · 10 marks

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

Q7 Geography (Physical, Resources & Phenomena) · 10 marks

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

Q8 Indian Society · 10 marks

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

Q9 Indian Society · 10 marks

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

Q10 Indian Society · 10 marks

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

Q11 Indian Culture & Heritage · 15 marks

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

Q12 Modern Indian History · 15 marks

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

Q13 Modern Indian History · 15 marks

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

Q14 Geography (Physical, Resources & Phenomena) · 15 marks

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

Q15 Geography (Physical, Resources & Phenomena) · 15 marks

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

Q16 Indian Society · 15 marks

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

Q17 Geography (Physical, Resources & Phenomena) · 15 marks

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

Q18 Indian Society · 15 marks

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

Q19 Indian Society · 15 marks

Why is caste identity in India both fluid and static?

Q20 Communalism, Secularism & Regionalism · 15 marks

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

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