civil services mains essay question paper

UPSC Mains: Syllabus, Question Papers, Mock Tests, Art of Answer Writing

• Mains GS Papers Topicwise from 2013-2023
• Mrunal’s Model Answers for UPSC GSM-2020 Paper

Mains GS Paper1: History, Social Science, Geography

Mains gs paper2: polity, governance,international relation, mains gs paper3: economy, environment, sci-tech, internal security, mains gs paper4: ethics, integrity, attitude, mains gs and essay papers topicwise from 2013-2022.

• [Download] UPSC Mains Essay Paper, Including Topicwise last 30 YEARS Essay Question Papers (1993-2023) with booklist, strategy!
• [Download] Topicwise UPSC Mains General Studies Paper-1 (GSM1): History, Geography, Social Science
• [Download] Topicwise UPSC Mains General Studies Paper-2 (GSM2): Polity, Welfare, Governance, International Relations (IR) since new Syllabus of 2013-2023
• [Download] Topicwise UPSC Mains General Studies Paper-3 (GSM3): Economy, Agriculture, Disaster Management, EIA, Science, Internal Security since new Syllabus of (2013-2023)
• [Download] UPSC Mains General Studies Paper-4 (GSM4) Topicwise Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude – All Papers (2013-2023)
• Indian culture covers the salient features of Literature, Art Forms, and Architecture from ancient to modern times.
• Modern Indian history include the significant events, personalities, issues during the middle of the eighteenth century until the present
• Various stages and important contributors and contributions from different parts of the country in ‘The Freedom Struggle’
• Post-independence consolidation and reorganization within the country
• History of the world includes events, forms and effect on the society from 18th century like world wars, industrial revolution, colonization, redrawal of national boundaries, decolonization, political philosophies like communism, capitalism, socialism etc
• Salient aspects of Diversity of India and Indian Society
• Role of women and women’s organization, population and associated issues, poverty and developmental issues, urbanization, their problems and remedies
• Social empowerment, communalism, regionalism & secularism
• Distribution of key natural resources across the world including South Asia and the Indian sub-continent; factors responsible for the location of primary, secondary, and tertiary sector industries in various parts of the world including India
• Effects of globalization on Indian society
• Salient features of world’s physical geography
• Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc., geographical features and their location- changes in critical geographical features (including water-bodies and ice-caps) and in flora and fauna and the effects of such changes
• [Download] ALL UPSC GSM1 Question Papers (Topicwise) from 2013-22 with Analysis & Future Strategy
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM1: Urban poor women living conditions more deplorable than rural counterparts
• [Lecture] UPSC Mains Answer Writing with Self-Assessment-Benchmarks: Democractic Elements in Religious Reforms (250 Words)
• [Lecture] UPSC Mains Answer Writing with Self-Assessment-Benchmarks: Quit India Movement- Planned or Spontaneous? (250 Words)
• [Lecture] UPSC Mains Answer Writing with Self-Assessment-Benchmarks: Gandhi’s Secular Image vs. Khilafat Support
• [Lecture] UPSC Mains Answer Writing with Self-Assessment-Benchmarks: British Imperialism Exigencies
• [Lecture] UPSC Mains Answer Writing with Self-Assessment-Benchmarks: Hindu elements in Mughal Architecture
• [Lecture] UPSC Mains Answer Writing with Self-Assessment-Benchmarks: Chola Bronze Sculptures
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM1-2017/Q20: Geography / Urbanization- New Problems of IT-BPO Cities (250 words, 15 marks)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM1-2017/Q19: How religiosity transformed into communalism in Independent India? (250 words)
• [Full Length Mock] UPSC Mains General Studies Paper-1 with FREE Question-cum-Answerbooklet (QCA)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM1-2017/Q18: Women Issues & Debates in the 19th Century India (250 words, 15 marks)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM1-2017/Q17: Geography- Monsoon climate that feeds over 50% population of World
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM1-2017/Q16: Geography- Converting floods into irrigation & inland navigation sources?
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM1-2017/Q15: Implications of Market-based Petro Refineries on developing country?
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM1-2017/Q14: Oceanic Salinity variations & its multi-dimensional effects (250 words, 15 marks) Physical Geography
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM1-2017/Q13: New Objectives added to vision of Free India since 1920s
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM1-2017/Q12: How traditional artisanal industry’s decline crippled rural economy of colonial India
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM1-2017/Q11: Indian society’s spirit of tolerance & love in past & present times
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM1-2017/Q10: Major legal initiatives by the State since Independence on discrimination against Scheduled Tribes (STs)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM1-2017/Q9: Whether regions form cultural units or States? (10 Marks)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM1-2017/Q8: Geography: How does Cryosphere affect Global Climate?
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM1-2017/Q7: Benefits of Pulse Cultivation, Why UN declared International Year of Pulses?
• [Model Answer] GSM1-2017/Q5: Physical Geography: NASA’s Juno Mission: Knowing Earth’s Origin from Jupiter’s Data?
• [Model Answer] GSM1-2017/Q4: World History- Decolonization problems in Malay Peninsula
• [Model Answer] GSM1-2017/Q3: Freedom Struggle: Why Moderates failed to convince masses by end of 19th Century?
• [Model Answer] GSM1-2017/Q2: Spectre of fragmented polity in mid-eighteenth century India (150 words, 10 Marks)
• [Model Answer] GSM1-2017/Q1: Gupta coins & numismatic art was better than its successive dynasties. Justify (150 Words, 10 Marks)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM1-2017/Q6: Carbon Imperialism vs Economic Cost of Renewable Energy vs Social Cost of Thermal Powerplants: Model Answers in Hindi & English
• [Full Length Mock] UPSC Mains GS1, Set#1: History & Culture, Society & Geography; with sources for Model Answerkey
• [AW/GSM1] Art & Culture: Declining Male Classical Dancers & Sanskrit Literature in Modern India- with Model Answers
• [AW/GSM1] History: Thugs of Hindustan, Criminal Tribes Act 1871, Rise of Totalitarianism in Europe- with Model Answers
• [AW/GSM1] Society: Post-Truth & Rise of Intolerance in India vs (GSM2): Constitution: Liberty of Thought & Expression? With Model Answers
• [AW/GSM1] Post-Independence: LTTE vs IPKF & Globalization vs FLPR with Model Answers
• Lecture/Rao forGSM1: Narasimha Rao’s Diplomacy & Mains Answer writing Basics
• Lecture/GSM1: Right wing Vigilantism in India vs Alt-Right in Trump’s USA: Compare Contrast
• Lecture/GSM1&4: DeenDayal- Integral humanism (एकात्म मानवदर्शन), One India (एक भारत), Dharma Rajya
• Lecture/GSM1: Leather Industry- Location Factors, Opportunities, Challenges, Cow Vigilantism
• Lecture/GSM1- Urban Floods: Problem, Remedies, Chennai Floods & Disaster Mitigation
• FREE Complete Lecture Series on World History by Pratik Nayak
• Indian Constitution- historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure
• Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure, devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein
• Comparison of the Indian constitutional scheme with that of other countries
• Separation of powers between various organs dispute redressal mechanisms and institutions
• Parliament and State Legislatures – structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these
• Appointment to various Constitutional posts, powers, functions and responsibilities of various Constitutional Bodies
• Structure, organization and functioning of the Executive and the Judiciary Ministries and Departments of the Government; pressure groups and formal/informal associations and their role in the Polity
• Salient features of the Representation of People’s Act
• Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation
• Statutory, regulatory and various quasi-judicial bodies
• Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes; mechanisms, laws, institutions and Bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections
• Health, Education, Human Resources
• Development processes and the development industry the role of NGOs, SHGs, various groups and associations, donors, charities, institutional and other stakeholders
• Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to
• Important aspects of governance, transparency and accountability, e-governance- applications, models, successes, limitations, and potential; citizens charters, transparency & accountability and institutional and other measures
• Issues relating to poverty and hunger
• Role of civil services in a democracy
• Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests
• India and its neighborhood- relations
• Important International institutions, agencies and fora, their structure, mandate
• Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora
• [Download] ALL UPSC GSM2 Question Papers (Topicwise) from 2013-22 with Analysis & Future Strategy
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM2: Critically Examine the Need to abolish No-Detention Policy under Right to Education Act (150 words)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM2: Explain the signifiance of ‘Affordable Housing’ in Human & Economic Development of India (150 words)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM2: Why did Govt. propose Triple Talaq Bill / Ordinance? List Salient Features (150 words)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM2: Diplomacy- Modi’s De-hyphenation Policy vs Nehru’s NAM Policy (250 words, 15 Marks)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM2: Son Meta-Preference impact on India’s Gender Inequality Index (GII) at UNDP (250 words)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM2: Ayushman Bharat-NHPM: Features, Fiscal & Administrative challenges (250 words, 15 marks)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM2: 15th Finance Commission’s Terms of Reference (TOR)- Why are States apprehensive? (250 words)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM2: Law Commission Report#276: Legalizing Sports-Betting in India. Discuss your Stand (250 words)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM2: National Register of Citizens (NRC) & Assam Accord: Features & Interconnections (250 words)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM2: Article 239AA & Lieutenant Governor’s Absolutism Post-SC Judgement
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM2: OBC Sub-categorization: Constitutional and Legal dimensions (150 words, 10 marks)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM2: American Senate is more powerful than Indian Rajya Sabha. Analyse
• [Full Length Mock] UPSC Mains GS2: Set#2- US Senate vs Rajya Sabha, Modi’s De-hyphenated Policy vs Nehru’s NAM
• [Full Length Mock] UPSC Mains GS2: Set#1 with model Answerkey: SC guidelines on Section 498-A
• [Economy/GSM2] Trade in Services Agreement (TiSA) vs WTO: MFN-Forward, Standstill & Ratchet, India’s stand, with Model Answers in Hindi & English
• [AW/GSM2] Art of Answer writing: Uniform Civil Code (UCC)- 3 Mock Questions & Model Answers in Hindi & English
• [AW/GSM2] Art of Answer writing: Regulatory Bodies autonomy & independence: Model Answers in English & Hindi
• Lecture/GS2: Natural Fiber Textiles vs SDG; Bulk Drugs & API Industry- Govt Policies
• Lecture/GSM2: Polity- Referendum in India? Lessons from BREXIT, Columbia & Scotland
• Lecture/GSM2: Polity- Refugee & Asylum Framework in India? Lessons from EU-Refugee Crisis
• Lecture/GSM2: Polity- Parliamentary Secretary, Office of Profit: Constitutional origins?
• Lecture/GSM2: Polity- Directly Elected Mayor system in ULBs, Private Member’s Bill- merits of
• Lecture/GSM2: Polity- Regulatory Bodies: Algo-Trading vs SEBI, MCI vs NMC?
• Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment.
• Development, Bio diversity, Environment, Security and Disaster Management.
• Government Budgeting.
• Inclusive growth and issues arising from it.
• 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; e-technology in the aid of farmers
• Economics of animal-rearing.
• Food processing and related industries in India- scope and significance, location, upstream and downstream requirements, supply chain management.
• Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies and minimum support prices; Public Distribution System objectives, functioning, limitations, revamping; issues of buffer stocks and food security; Technology missions
• Land reforms in India.
• Effects of liberalization on the economy, changes in industrial policy and their effects on industrial growth.
• Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc.
• Investment models.
• Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life Achievements of Indians in science & technology;
• Indigenization of technology and developing new technology.
• Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment
• Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, robotics, nano-technology, bio-technology and issues relating to intellectual property rights.
• Disaster and disaster management.
• Role of external state and non-state actors in creating challenges to internal security.
• Linkages between development and spread of extremism.
• Challenges to internal security through communication networks, role of media and social networking sites in internal security challenges, basics of cyber security; money-laundering and its prevention
• Various Security forces and agencies and their mandate
• Security challenges and their management in border areas; linkages of organized crime with terrorism
• [Download] ALL UPSC GSM3 Question Papers (Topicwise) from 2013-22 with Analysis & Future Strategy
• Model Answers for UPSC Mains → GSM3-2019/Q12: Disaster Vulnerability types & characterization in हिंदी & English (10m, 150 words)
• Model Answers for UPSC Mains → GSM3-2019/Q11: Hazard Zonation Mapping for Landslide Disaster Preparedness in हिंदी & English (15m, 250 words)
• Model Answers for UPSC Mains → GSM3-2019/Q10: Govt Reforms to make PDS food grain distribution system more effective (15m, 250 words) in हिंदी & English
• Model Answers for UPSC Mains → GSM3-2019/Q9: Govt initiatives for Food Processing Sector in India (15m, 250 words) in हिंदी & English
• [Model Ans in हिंदी & English] UPSC GSM3-2019/Q8: Contributions of Sir M.Visvesvaraya and Dr. M. S. Swaminathan
• [Model Ans in हिंदी & English] UPSC GSM3-2019/Q7:National Watershed Project in increasing agricultural production? (10m, 150 words)
• [Model Ans in हिंदी & English] UPSC GSM3-2019/Q6: Integrated Farming System for sustaining agricultural production? (10m, 150 words)
• [Model Ans in हिंदी & English] UPSC GSM3-2019/Q5: Biotechnology for Farmers Income Improvement? (15m, 250 words)
• [Model Ans in हिंदी & English] UPSC GSM3-2019/Q3: Is Indian Economy in Good shape?
• [Model Ans in हिंदी & English] UPSC GSM3-2019/Q3: Inclusive Growth strategy for Sustainability
• [Model Ans in हिंदी & English] UPSC GSM3-2019/Q2: Public Expenditure Management challenges Post-LPG Reforms
• [Model Ans in हिंदी & English] UPSC GSM3-2019/Q1: Comment on Revenue implications of GST
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM3-2018/Q12: How is Protectionism & Currency Manipulation affecting Indian Economy?
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM3-2018/Q11: How principles of NITI Aayog different from Planning Commission? (15 marks) incl. HINDI ANSWER
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM3-2018/Q10: Internal Security- Govt’s approach to Left Wing Extremism (LWE)? (10m)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM3-2018/Q9: Why India distanced from China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)? (10 marks)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM3-2018/Q8: 100% Organic Farming State’s ecological and economical benefits? (10 marks)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM3-2018/Q7: Ramsar “Wise use” Concept for wetland conservation (150 words, 10 marks)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM3-2018/Q6: How to remove Toxic Solid Waste from Habitable Environment? (10 marks)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM3-2018/Q5: Discuss how Bose-Einstein Statistics revolutionized the field of Physics? (10 marks)
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM3-2018/Q4: Food-Processing: How Supermarket supply chain management (SCM) eliminates intermediaries?
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM3-2018/Q3: Agriculture Issues- How MSP protects farmers from Low-Income Trap?
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM3-2018/Q2: Long-term Capital Gains Tax (LCGT) & Dividend Distribution Tax (DDT) in the Union Budget
• [Model Answer] UPSC GSM3-2018/Q1: Energy Access initiatives for SDG: Ujjwala, Saubhagya, Gram-Jyoti, Urja Ganga, Uday (150 words)
• [AW/GSM3] Internal Security: Preventing Lone Wolf & Hate Speech on Social Media: Mock Questions with Model Answer Writing
• [GSM3/Disasters] Human Stampede Prevention, Role of Science Tech (GSM3) & Code for Media (GSM4) With Model Answer Writing
• [AW/GSM3] Economy: Give Fiscal stimulus for 6-Quarter GDP dip & GST troubles of MSME/Small Traders? Critically Examine. Model Answer Included
• [Economy] WTO Buenos Aires Summit #EPICFAIL: Model Answers for UPSC Mains GS2 & GS3
• [AW/GSM3] Carbon Imperialism vs Economic Cost of Renewable Energy vs Social Cost of Thermal Powerplants: Model Answers in Hindi & English
• [Summary] Economy#4A: Agriculture Credit & Inputs (Part 1/3) for Descriptive Exams gist of Survey Vol1&2, NITI 3YRs & SDG30
• [Summary] Economy#4A: Agriculture Extension & Research, GM Crops (Part 2/3) for Descriptive Exams gist of Survey Vol1&2, NITI 3YRs & SDG30
• [Summary] Economy#4A: Agriculture Output Selling (3/3): Price Deficiency Payment (PDP), MSP, APMC & Food Management gist of Survey Vol1&2, NITI 3YRs & SDG30
• [AW/GSM3] Tomato Inflation, Organic Farming, Pulses Inflation: Mock Questions & Model Answer Writing for UPSC Civil Services Mains Exam
• [AW/GSM3] Art of Answer writing: Minor Forest Produce (MFP) significance & challenges for Tribal economy: Model Answers in English & Hindi
• [Economy] GSM3: New Metro Rail Policy 2017: Investment Models, PPP vs EPC, DFBOT, VGF with Model Answers in Hindi & English
• Lecture/Rao forGSM3: Rao’s Economic Reforms, Impact of Liberalization & industrial Policy
• Lecture/GSM3- SENDAI Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction & India’s updated NDM Plan 2016
• Lecture/GSM3: Pollution- Kigali Amendment, India- a Rejectionist Power in SDG, Paris, ICAO?
• Lecture/GSM3/Agri: Pulses inflation: Arvind Subramanian report, PPP procurement, higher MSP, DBT?
• Lecture/GSM3/Agri: GM Mustard, DMH-11 Hybrid should we adopt in India? GEAC report? Cartagena Protocol?
• Lecture/GSM3/Budgeting: Why Plan-Non plan merger? Is Revenue-Capital classification sufficient?
• Lecture/GSM3/Budgeting: Why Budget advanced to 1st February? Merits, Rationale, Summary
• Lecture/GSM3/Budgeting: Why change Financial Year of India instead of 1st April-31st March?
• Lecture/GSM3/Economy: GST-Proposed Framework, Benefits, Challenges- Summary
• Lecture/GSM3/Poverty: UBI- Universal Basic Income for Indian Poor: Benefits, Challenges- Summary

This paper includes questions to check the candidate’s’ attitude and approach to issues relating to integrity, probity in public life and his/her problem solving approach to various issues and conflicts faced by him/her while dealing with society. Questions may utilise the case study approach to determine these aspects and covers area:

• Ethics and Human Interface- Essence, determinants and consequences of Ethics in human actions; dimensions of ethics; ethics in private and public relationships
• Human Values- lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders, reformers and administrators; role of family, society and educational institutions in inculcating values
• Attitude- content, structure, function; its influence and relation with thought and behaviour; moral and political attitudes; social influence and persuasion
• Aptitude and foundational values for Civil Service, integrity, impartiality and non-partisanship, objectivity, dedication to public service, empathy, tolerance and compassion towards the weaker-sections
• Emotional intelligence-concepts, and their utilities and application in administration and governance
• Contributions of moral thinkers and philosophers from India and world
• Public/Civil service values and Ethics in Public administration- Status and problems; ethical concerns and dilemmas in government and private institutions; laws, rules, regulations and conscience as sources of ethical guidance; accountability and ethical governance; strengthening of ethical and moral values in governance; ethical issues in international relations and funding; corporate governance
• Probity in Governance- Concept of public service; Philosophical basis of governance and probity; Information; sharing and transparency in government, Right to Information, Codes of Ethics, Codes of Conduct, Citizen’s Charters, Work culture, Quality of service delivery, Utilization of public funds, challenges of corruption
• Case Studies on above issues.
• [Download] ALL UPSC GSM4 Question Papers (Topicwise) from 2013-22 with Analysis & Future Strategy
• [Full Length Mock] UPSC Mains GS4: Set#1 Ethics, Integrity, Aptitude incl. Case Studies on Blue Whale Game, Gender Equality, Artistic Freedom
• [Full Length Mock] UPSC Mains GS4: Set#2- Ethics, Integrity, Aptitude with case study on recruitment, Ostracism, Friendship & More
• [AW/GSM4] Art of Answer writing: Transparency of Rules Act (TORA) vs RTI vs Citizen Charter for Transparency, Accountability & Good Governance
• Lecture/Rao forGS3&4: LPG Legacy= Growth NOT Redistributed? Crisis Mgmt using Kautilya?
• FREE Complete Lecture Series on Ethics by UPSC Topper Kavan Limbasiya (IRS)
• More Case Studies and Articles

• IAS Preparation
• UPSC Preparation Strategy
• UPSC Mains 2021 Question Paper

UPSC Mains 2021 Question Papers

The UPSC Mains Examination has been scheduled to be conducted from 7th January 2022 to 16th January 2022. The candidates who have cleared the Preliminary exam 2021 which was held on October 10, 2021, would appear in the next level of the recruitment process, that is, Civil Services (Main) Examination. 

It is to be noted that the marks obtained in the IAS Exam Prelims by the candidates will not be counted for determining their final order of merit. 

The Civil Services (Main) Written Examination will consist of 9 papers of conventional essay type in the subjects out of which two papers will be of qualifying in nature. The marks obtained for all the compulsory papers (Paper-I to Paper-VII) and Marks obtained in the Interview/Personality Test will be counted for ranking.

The aspirants can download the UPSC IAS 2021 Mains question papers PDF from this page. 

Note – The exams are yet to take place. The PDFs will be available shortly.

Meanwhile, to download the 2020, 2019 UPSC Mains Previous Year Question Papers , visit the linked article.  

Download UPSC CSE 2021 Mains GS Question Papers PDF

The candidates can download the IAS Mains 2021 GS papers from the following links. The link will be activated once the question papers are officially released by the commission on the official website. 

Download UPSC Mains 2021 Essay Paper PDF

The candidates would be required to write essays on multiple topics. The candidates are expected to keep closely to the subject of the essay to arrange their ideas in an orderly fashion and to write concisely. The essay paper is not just qualifying in nature but will be counted for the merit ranking. 

Therefore, the aspirants can download the Essay Paper and Compulsory English Language Paper from below:

• UPSC Mains 2021 Essay Paper PDF

Download UPSC Mains 2021 Language Papers

• UPSC Mains 2021 Compulsory English Paper

The aspirants can download the compulsory Indian language papers from the links below:

For more information, check out UPSC Mains 2021 Indian Language Papers from the linked article. 

Download UPSC 2021 Mains Optional Papers PDF

The candidates have to choose any one of the optional subjects from amongst the list of subjects prescribed by the commission. 

The candidates can also choose Literature of any one of the following languages as their optional subject. 

Also, check out UPSC Mains 2021 Optional Paper from the linked article.

Other related links:

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[Download] UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination 2020 | Essay Question Paper 2020

Dear Friends,

On the very first day of the UPSC/Civil Services Mains 2020 exam, Essay paper has been conducted, as per the schedule.

To download the UPSC Essay Paper 2020, Click on the link given below:

ESSAY PAPER: UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination – 2020

SECTION – A

• Life is long journey between human being and being humane.
• Mindful manifesto is the catalyst to a tranquil self
• Ships do not sink because of water around them, ships sink because of water that gets into them
• Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.

SECTION – B

• Culture is what we are, civilization is what we have.
• There can be no social justice without economic prosperity but economic prosperity without social justice is meaningless.
• Patriarchy is the least noticed yet the most significant structure of social inequality.
• Technology as the silent factor in international relations.

UPSC Mains 2020 Essay Question Paper

Upcoming Exam Schedule:

Following are the exams that will be conducted on the upcoming days, under UPSC Mains Examination for the year 2020:

Previous Year UPSC Mains Papers

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• Art and Culture
• Indian Economy
• Science and Technology
• Environment  & Ecology
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• Important Bills and Acts
• International Organizations
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Study Material

UPSC Mains Question Paper 2023

By vajiram & ravi.

Model Answers GS Paper I PDF

Model Answers GS Paper II PDF

Model Answers GS Paper III PDF

Model Answers GS Paper IV PDF

The UPSC Mains Question Paper 2023 will help you understand the exam pattern being followed by UPSC in this year. The exam dates for the UPSC CSE Mains are 15th, 16th, 17th, 23rd and 24th September 2023. The examination was conducted in two shifts: the first shift is from 9.00 a.m. - 12.00 p.m., and the second shift is from 2.00 p.m. -5.00 p.m . The pattern of the UPSC Mains 2023 question paper consists of a comprehensive assessment designed to evaluate the knowledge, analytical abilities, and writing skills of aspirants for various civil services positions in India. There are 9 papers in total, and all are descriptive in nature.

Analysing the UPSC Mains 2023 paper will help you analyse the pattern of questions and fill in the gaps in your preparation for UPSC 2024 . Therefore, this article will focus on providing UPSC Mains Question Papers 2023 for all 9 papers that are taking place from 15th to 24th September 2023.

UPSC Mains 2023 Question Paper PDF

The UPSC Mains Question Paper consists of a set of nine papers, out of which two are qualifying in nature, namely the English Language Paper and an Indian Language Paper (selected by the candidate). The remaining seven papers are counted for merit, covering a wide spectrum of subjects, including General Studies, Essay, and optional subjects selected by the candidates. These papers are designed to evaluate a candidate's in-depth understanding of various subjects, critical thinking ability, analytical skills, and ability to articulate thoughts clearly.

Here, you can download the UPSC Mains Question Paper 2023 PDF of GS Paper- I, II, III and IV consisting of the General Studies subjects part of the UPSC Syllabus . Each Paper carries 250 Marks.

• General Studies I (Indian Heritage and Culture, History and Geography of the World and Society)
• General Studies II (Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, and International Relations)
• General Studies III (Technology, Economic Development, Biodiversity, Environment, Security and Disaster Management)
• General Studies IV (Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude)

You can download the UPSC Mains Question Paper 2023 of General Studies - I, II, III, and IV from the given link below:

• GS Paper I Mains Question Paper 2023
• GS Paper II Mains Question Paper 2023
• GS Paper III Mains Question Paper 2023
• GS Paper IV Mains Question Paper 2023

Model Answers of UPSC Mains 2023 General Studies Questions

Those who have taken the UPSC Mains 2023 exam from 15th to 24th September or those who are planning to appear next year can download the model answers of UPSC Mains question papers of GS I, II, III, and IV from the following links. These answers will help you identify the structure and important points that could be included in the answers.

GS Paper 1:

• Question 1: Explain the role of Geographical Factors towards the development of Ancient India .
• Question 2:  What was the difference between Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore in their approach towards education and nationalism?
• Question 3:  Bring about the Socio-Economic Effects of the Introduction of Railways in Different Countries of the World.
• Question 4:  Discuss the Consequences of Climate Change on the Food Security in Tropical Countries.
• Question 5:  Why is the world today confronted with a crisis of availability of and access to freshwater resources?
• Question 6: How are the fjords formed? Why do they constitute some of the most picturesque areas of the world?
• Question 8:  Do you think marriage as a sacrament is losing its value in modern India?
• Question 9:  Explain why suicide among young women is increasing in Indian society.

GS Paper 2:

• Question 1:  "Constitutionally guaranteed judicial independence is a prerequisite of democracy”. Comment.
• Question 2:  Who are entitled to receive free legal aid? Assess the role of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) in rendering free legal aid in India.
• Question 3:  “The states in India seem reluctant to empower urban local bodies both functionally as well as financially.” Comment.
• Question 4:  Compare and Contrast the British and Indian approaches to Parliamentary Sovereignty.
• Question 5:  Discuss the role of Presiding Officers of state legislatures in maintaining order and impartiality in conducting legislative work and in facilitating best democratic practices.

GS Paper 3:

• Question 1:  Faster economic growth requires increased share of the manufacturing sector in GDP, particularly of MSMEs. Comment on the present policies of the Government in this regard.
• Question 2:  What is the status of digitalization in the Indian economy? Examine the problems faced in this regard and suggest improvements.
• Question 3:  How does e-Technology help farmers in production and marketing of agricultural produce? Explain it.
• Question 4:  State the objectives and measures of land reforms in India. Discuss how land ceiling policy on landholding can be considered as an effective reform under economic criteria.
• Question 5:  Introduce the concept of Artificial Intelligence (AI). How does AI help clinical diagnosis? Do you perceive any threat to privacy of the individual in the use of AI in the healthcare?
• Question 6:  Discuss several ways in which microorganisms can help in meeting the current fuel shortage.

GS Paper 4:

• Differentiate ‘moral intuition’ from ‘moral reasoning with suitable examples.
• What were the major teachings of Guru Nanak? Explain their relevance in the contemporary world.
• Explain the term social capital. How does it enhance good governance?

UPSC Mains Essay Paper 2023

The UPSC Mains Essay paper 2023 consists of two sections, Section A and Section B. Each section has four essay topics. Aspirants must choose one topic from each section for a total of two essays. Each essay must be between 1,000 and 1,200 words long and is worth 125 marks. The Essay paper is not just for qualifying purposes but also counts towards the final merit ranking. Candidates are expected to stay on topic, organise their thoughts logically, and write concisely.

The UPSC Mains Essay Paper 2023  can be downloaded here.

UPSC CSE Mains 2023 Essay Question Paper PDF

UPSC Mains Question Paper 2023 Language Papers

The UPSC Mains exam has nine papers, of which Paper A is the mandatory Indian Language Paper. Candidates must select an Indian language from a list given by the UPSC in the official notification.

Paper B is the required English Language Paper. It is a qualifying paper, meaning that candidates must score at least 25% marks in order to be considered for the final merit list.

The UPSC Mains question papers for Indian language and English language can be downloaded from the following links:

• Paper A: Indian Language Mains Question Paper 2023 (Hindi)
• Paper B: English Language Question Paper 2023

UPSC Mains Optional Question Papers

The UPSC Mains Exam has a list of 48 optional subjects from which aspirants must choose one. Each optional subject is divided into two papers, each of which carries 250 marks. The choice of an optional subject is an important factor in determining the candidate's rank in the final merit list, so it should be made carefully. The UPSC Mains 2023 question paper of optional subjects can be downloaded from the following links:

Pattern of UPSC Mains 2023 Paper

To know about the exam pattern and the release dates of UPSC Mains 2023 question papers, refer to the following table:

Is UPSC Mains Question Paper 2023 released?

The UPSC Mains Question Paper 2023 has not been released on the Official UPSC Website yet. However, you can download the Mains Question Paper 2023 from our given page after the paper has been successfully concluded on the given day.

How many papers are there in UPSC Mains?

There are a total of 9 papers for UPSC Mains 2023. Each paper is descriptive in nature.

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Essay Question Paper (Analysis & Solutions) – UPSC Civil Services Mains 2023

This topic of “Essay Question Paper (Analysis & Solutions) – UPSC Civil Services Mains 2023” is important from the perspective of the UPSC IAS Examination , which falls under General Studies Portion.

Write two essays, choosing one topic from each of the following Sections A and B, in about 1000 – 1200 words each: (125×2=250 marks)

(Click the links to read the solutions)

• Thinking is like a game, it does not begin unless there is an opposite team.
• Visionary deci sion-making happens at the intersection of intuition and logic.
• Not all who wander are lost.
• Inspiration for creativity springs from the effort to look for the magical in the mundane .
• Girls are weighed down by restrictions, boys with demands – two equally harmful disciplines.
• Mathematics is the music of reason.
• A society that has more justice is a society that needs less charity.
• Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in school.

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Analysis & Approach

Each question in the essay paper reflects a different dimension of thinking, and the aspirant is expected to demonstrate their analytical skills, coherence in arguments, and proficiency in language while addressing these questions.

• Analysis: This topic seems to delve into the dialectical nature of thought. It could be interpreted that for any idea or thought to be truly explored or expanded upon, there must be an opposing or challenging force. This could relate to the Hegelian dialectic (thesis-antithesis-synthesis) or even the fundamental nature of debates.
• Approach: A candidate can start by illustrating the importance of opposition in any form of critical thinking or decision-making. Real-world examples like scientific debates, democratic procedures, and the role of a loyal opposition in a parliament can be cited.
• Analysis: Visionary decisions are those that shape the future, and they strike a balance between intuition (which is often based on subconscious processing) and logic (structured reasoning).
• Approach: Candidates can discuss examples of visionary leaders and their decisions. For instance, Steve Jobs’ intuition in product design combined with logical market analysis, or Mahatma Gandhi ’s intuition about non-violence and its logical implications in the Indian freedom struggle.
• Analysis: This statement, borrowed from J.R.R. Tolkien’s work, implies that not all who seem directionless are without purpose; sometimes, wandering can be a form of discovery.
• Approach: This can be addressed by discussing the importance of exploration, serendipity in scientific discoveries, or even the self-exploratory journey that many individuals undertake in life.
• Analysis: This implies that true creativity often arises from observing and interpreting everyday life in unique ways.
• Approach: Real-life examples of artists, writers, and scientists who drew inspiration from everyday occurrences can be highlighted. Picasso’s simplistic drawings or Archimedes’ Eureka moment in his bathtub, for instance.
• Analysis: This topic brings out the gender disparities and societal norms and expectations imposed upon individuals based on their gender.
• Approach: It’s crucial to address both sides of the coin, discussing how gender norms restrict the potential and well-being of both girls and boys. Comparisons of societal expectations, real-life anecdotes, and data-driven evidence on gender disparities can be effective.
• Analysis: The quote explores the harmony, structure, and beauty in mathematics similar to the rhythm and patterns in music.
• Approach: Discussing the inherent order and logic in mathematics, and drawing parallels with musical structures can be a starting point. Mentioning mathematicians who were also musicians or vice versa might add value.
• Analysis: This touches upon the idea that if a society is just, equitable, and provides opportunities for all, then the need for charity diminishes as fewer people would be in a position of deprivation.
• Approach: Highlighting the correlation between justice and social welfare, discussing models of developed nations, and contrasting them with societies where charity becomes a band-aid solution for deeper systemic issues can be effective.
• Analysis: This topic delves into the difference between rote learning and true education – the values, critical thinking skills, and character that endure beyond mere facts.
• Approach: Drawing a distinction between learning for exams and learning for life, discussing the role of education in character building, and bringing in philosophical views on education would be insightful.

For all the essays, it’s essential to remember to structure the arguments coherently, provide relevant examples, and ensure a holistic view is presented. Best of luck to all the aspirants!

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UPSC Prelims 2024: Key Points To Know

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March 22, 2024

Upsc civil service prelims 2024 rescheduled to june 16 due to general election schedule clash.

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The UPSC CSE exam is conducted in three stages - prelims, mains and the personality test

Preliminary exam comprises two papers, each of 200 marks, with questions in hindi and english, lasting two hours each.

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A minimum of 33% marks will be required to clear General Studies Paper-II

Main exam qualification depends on meeting upsc's minimum marks criteria in prelims' general studies papers, upsc civil services mains are scheduled to be held for five days starting september 20, candidate must be aged between 21 to 32 years as of august 1, 2024, as per exam eligibility criteria, birth date should fall between august 2, 1992, and august 1, 2003, as specified in the cse notification, upsc announced 1,056 vacancies for cse and 150 for indian forest service this year, check more stories.

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Trump Spurned by 30 Companies as He Seeks Bond in $454 Million Judgment

Donald J. Trump’s lawyers said in a court filing that he faces “insurmountable difficulties” as he tries to raise cash for the civil fraud penalty he faces in New York.

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By Ben Protess ,  Maggie Haberman and Kate Christobek

Donald J. Trump’s lawyers disclosed on Monday that he had failed to secure a roughly half-billion dollar bond in his civil fraud case in New York, raising the prospect that the state could seek to freeze some of his bank accounts and seize some of his marquee properties.

The court filing, coming one week before the bond is due, suggested that the former president might soon face a financial crisis unless an appeals court comes to his rescue.

Mr. Trump has asked the appeals court to pause the $454 million judgment that a New York judge imposed on Mr. Trump in the fraud case last month, or accept a bond of only $100 million. Otherwise, the New York attorney general’s office, which brought the case, might soon move to collect from Mr. Trump.

Still, even if the higher court rejects his appeal, Mr. Trump is not entirely out of options . He might appeal to the state’s highest court, quickly sell an asset or seek help from a wealthy supporter.

Mr. Trump’s team has also left the door open to exploring a bankruptcy for corporate entities implicated in the case, according to people with knowledge of the discussions. That option, however, is politically fraught during a presidential race in which he is the presumptive Republican nominee, and for now it appears unlikely.

The judge in the civil fraud case, Arthur F. Engoron , levied the $454 million penalty and other punishments after concluding that Mr. Trump had fraudulently inflated his net worth to obtain favorable loans and other benefits. The case, brought by the New York attorney general, Letitia James, has posed a grave financial threat to Mr. Trump.

The former president has been unable to secure the full bond, his lawyers said in the court filing on Monday, calling it a “practical impossibility” despite “diligent efforts.” Those efforts included approaching about 30 companies that provide appeal bonds, and yet, the lawyers said, he has encountered “insurmountable difficulties.”

The company providing the bond would essentially promise to cover Mr. Trump’s judgment if he lost an appeal and failed to pay. In exchange, he would pledge cash and other liquid assets as collateral, and he would pay the company a fee as high as $20 million.

But Mr. Trump does not have enough liquidity to obtain the bond. The company would require Mr. Trump to pledge more than $550 million in cash and securities as collateral — a sum he simply does not have.

Although the former president boasts of his billions, his net worth is derived largely from the value of his real estate, which bond companies rarely accept as collateral. Mr. Trump has more than $350 million in cash , a recent New York Times analysis found, far short of what he needs.

He might have to post an appeal bond worth more than $454 million — possibly above $500 million, to reflect the interest he will owe — in order to prevent Ms. James from seizing his assets on March 25.

Under the law, Ms. James could have moved to collect from Mr. Trump as soon as Justice Engoron ruled, but she offered a 30-day grace period, until March 25. It is unclear whether she will provide Mr. Trump extra time or if she will move swiftly to collect. Nor is it clear whether the appellate court will rule on his plea for help before the deadline.

Mr. Trump could also seek to appeal to New York’s highest court, and it is unclear whether Ms. James will hold off on the seizure while he pursues that route.

A spokeswoman for Ms. James did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Mr. Trump has denied all wrongdoing and claimed that Ms. James and Justice Engoron, both Democrats, are out to get him.

“This is a motion to stay the unjust, unconstitutional, un-American judgment from New York Judge Arthur Engoron in a political witch hunt brought by a corrupt attorney general,” Steven Cheung, a spokesman for Mr. Trump’s campaign, said in a statement. “A bond of this size would be an abuse of the law, contradict bedrock principles of our republic, and fundamentally undermine the rule of law in New York.”

The looming deadline could not come at a worse time for Mr. Trump. He also faces four criminal indictments, including one in Manhattan that is tentatively set for trial in mid-April.

And just last week he finalized a $91.6 million bond in a defamation case he recently lost to the writer E. Jean Carroll, a costly deal that drained him of precious cash.

Mr. Trump, who obtained that bond from the insurance giant Chubb, pledged an investment account at Charles Schwab as collateral, records show. He most likely pledged more than $100 million in cash and stocks and bonds that he could sell in a hurry — investments that are now no longer available for him to use in the civil fraud case.

A nearly $500 million bond, Mr. Trump’s lawyers wrote on Monday, “is unprecedented for a private company.”

Yet Mr. Trump’s legal team “devoted a substantial amount of time, money, and effort” to finding one, according to a court filing by Alan Garten, the top lawyer at Mr. Trump’s family business.

Using four separate brokers, the lawyers approached more than two dozen companies that provide appellate bonds, including Chubb and Berkshire Hathaway, the conglomerate run for decades by Warren E. Buffett, Mr. Garten said. He added that most of the companies were either unable or unwilling to handle a bond of this size, and that none were willing to accept property as collateral.

Their best bet appeared to be Chubb, but within the past week, Chubb notified Mr. Trump’s lawyers that it, too, could not accept property as collateral.

“This presents a major obstacle,” Mr. Garten wrote.

Mr. Trump’s company has not ruled out the possibility of having the corporate entities declare bankruptcy, the people with knowledge of the discussions said. That move would automatically halt the judgment against those entities and prevent Ms. James from seizing some of the former president’s properties.

But Mr. Trump, scarred from an experience in the 1990s when some of his companies filed for bankruptcy, is likely to balk at a filing.

And even if he supported it, bankruptcy — which Mr. Trump used to describe derisively as “the b-word” — might not be a cure-all, legal experts said. Seeking court protection could trigger defaults in loans he holds, and would most likely set off litigation over whether Mr. Trump is still responsible to pay his company’s debts.

Mr. Trump’s lawyers on Monday also submitted a filing from one of his insurance brokers, Gary Giulietti, who said his team had for several weeks been “scouring the market” for a bond.

“Simply put, a bond of this size is rarely, if ever, seen,” he wrote.

Mr. Giulietti, who testified as an expert witness at the trial, also occasionally golfs and dines with Mr. Trump.

In his decision, Justice Engoron criticized his testimony, saying that in more than 20 years on the bench, he had never encountered an expert witness who “not only was a close personal friend of a party, but also had a personal financial interest in the outcome of the case.”

Ben Protess is an investigative reporter at The Times, writing about public corruption. He has been covering the various criminal investigations into former President Trump and his allies. More about Ben Protess

Maggie Haberman is a senior political correspondent reporting on the 2024 presidential campaign, down ballot races across the country and the investigations into former President Donald J. Trump. More about Maggie Haberman

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Essay Question Paper of UPSC Civil Services Mains 2013

Last updated on August 17, 2023 by Alex Andrews George

Write an essay on any one of the following topics, in NOT MORE than 2500 words. (250 marks)

• Be the change you want to see in others – Gandhiji.
• Is the Colonial mentality hindering India’s Success?
• GDP (Gross Domestic Product) along with GDH (Gross Domestic Happiness) would be the right indices for judging the well-being of a country.
• Science and technology is the panacea for the growth and security of the nation.

Remark: It seems most the the students, particularly from science and engineering stream selected the 4th essay on Science and Technology. The next priority seems the Colonial mentality and GDH essays.

Interested aspirants may share your thoughts in the comment space below.

Aim IAS, IPS, or IFS?

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About Alex Andrews George

Alex Andrews George is a mentor, author, and social entrepreneur. Alex is the founder of ClearIAS and one of the expert Civil Service Exam Trainers in India.

He is the author of many best-seller books like 'Important Judgments that transformed India' and 'Important Acts that transformed India'.

A trusted mentor and pioneer in online training , Alex's guidance, strategies, study-materials, and mock-exams have helped many aspirants to become IAS, IPS, and IFS officers.

Reader Interactions

December 3, 2013 at 8:10 pm

Questions were Good and tricky not as simple to be thought. It have very broadest think.

August 22, 2015 at 5:56 pm

Good but can be more

September 7, 2016 at 2:49 pm

September 7, 2016 at 2:53 pm

Sir ma ba third ka stud hu m hindi se Ias babn chah h sir app mujh batay English ka parp hot h aur mujhe engl k kun book le ka adhyn kar ch please

September 7, 2016 at 2:55 pm

Aur sir mr gml per mains ka paper bhej diji na plz

January 19, 2017 at 10:01 pm

sir plz send on my mail both pre nd mians paper i shll be thnkfulll of u

August 4, 2017 at 10:59 am

Sir, Mera Nam Arshad h. Mai B.A second year me hu. Sir Mera Aim h IAS bnna. Sir Mai Apni Preparation kaise kru. Nd Sir mera English week h. Plzz Sir Mujhe iske About btaye.

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[ GENERAL STUDIES PAPER – 3 ] : UPSC MAINS CIVIL SERVICES IAS EXAM 2021 QUESTION PAPER

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UPSC MAINS GENERAL STUDIES PAPER – 3 MAINS 2021

GENERAL STUDIES

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 the socio-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 (AQGs) 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 by earthquakes 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- shapes recovery? Give reasons in support of your answer. (Answer in 250 words)

Q12. “Investment in infrastructure is essential for more rapid and inclusive 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, 2013 ? 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 an 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 26 th 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 multidimensıonal 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)

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