Mains Practice Questions

Q: What are the objectives and components of the Samudrayan mission? How will it help in enhancing India’s capabilities and interests in the deep ocean exploration? (250 words)

Q. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has been facing a crisis of credibility and confidence due to various factors. Analyse the causes and consequences of this crisis and suggest measures to restore the public trust and reputation of the CBI. (250 words)

Q. What are the main features and functions of the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) in India? How effective has it been in ensuring probity and accountability in public life? (250 words)

Q. Discuss the impact of globalization on the diversity and pluralism of Indian society. Give suitable examples to support your answer. (150 words)

Q. Analyze the factors that led to the rise and decline of the Indus Valley Civilization. What are the major contributions of this civilization to human history? (250 words)

Essay Topics

1. We don't see things as they are, we see them as we are.

2. To educate a person in mind and not in morals is to educate a menace to society.

Case Study

You are an officer working for the fire department in a city. One day, a massive fire breaks out in a building belonging to a coaching institute having classrooms where more than 1000 students are stranded. Also, the building lacks proper fire safety measures and adequate exits. Panic ensues as students inside the building desperately try to escape the flames and smoke, resulting in some individuals resorting to jumping off the building to save themselves.

As you arrive at the scene, you are faced with the following dilemmas:

(a) How do you prioritize the rescue operations, given the limited resources and time available?

(b) How do you deal with the ethical and legal implications of the building owner’s negligence and violation of fire safety norms?

(c) How do you handle the emotional and psychological impact of witnessing such a tragic incident on yourself and your team members?

Q. “Be the change that you wish to see in the world.” - Mahatma Gandhi (150 words)

(a) Explain the meaning and significance of this quote in the context of public service.

(b) Give an example of a situation where you applied or witnessed this principle in your personal or professional life.

(c) How can this quote inspire you to overcome ethical dilemmas and challenges in your future role as a civil servant?

Q. Discuss the significance of probity in governance and its impact on administrative effectiveness and public trust. (150 words)

Q. Critically examine the role of dams in India's water and energy security and discuss the challenges and opportunities for sustainable dam development in the context of climate change. (250 words)

Q. What is the role of civil society and local communities in countering radicalization and violent extremism? Discuss the challenges and opportunities in engaging with them for internal security. (250 words)

Q. Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) stand at a crossroads, calling for a comprehensive revamp. Examine the key challenges that impede the smooth functioning of ULBs and propose measures to overcome them. (250 words)

Q. Inclusivity is a theme in India’s G20 presidency. Discuss the challenges and opportunities for making urban centres more disabled-friendly in India. (150 words)

Q. How did the existing architecture in India evolve with the arrival of Islamic rule in India? (250 words)

Q. Discuss the impact of regionalism on national integration and governance in India. (150 words)

Essay Topics

1. The policy of being too cautious is the greatest risk of all.

2. Evil unchecked grows, evil tolerated poisons the whole system.

Case Study

You are the secretary of the public works department in a state. You are responsible for overseeing the construction and maintenance of various infrastructure projects in the state. Recently, a bridge that was built by your department collapsed, killing several people and injuring many others. The bridge was inaugurated just a few months ago and was supposed to be a model of engineering excellence. The public is outraged by this incident and blames your department for negligence and corruption. They demand your resignation and hold protests outside your office. Some media channels also accuse you of being involved in a scam and taking bribes from the contractor who built the bridge. You are shocked and saddened by this tragedy and want to find out the truth behind the collapse. You also want to defend your reputation and integrity, which you have earned through years of hard work and honesty.

What will you do in this situation? Explain the ethical issues involved and the course of action you will take.

Q. Discuss the main principles of Chanakya’s philosophy for civil servants and how they are relevant for the contemporary Indian bureaucracy. (150 words)

Q. Aptitude and Foundational Values for Civil Service are essential qualities that a civil servant should possess in order to perform his/her duties effectively and ethically. Discuss. (150 words)

Q. The Indian Space Sector has been globally recognized for building cost-effective satellites, and now India is even taking foreign satellites to space. In this light discuss the significance of New Space Policy and challenges associated with it. Also, suggest measures to harness the full potential of space sector. (250 words)

Q. What are the primary causes contributing to train accidents in India? Highlighting the expert committee's recommendations propose effective measures that can be implemented to address these causes and enhance the safety and reliability of India's railway network. (250 words)

Q. How has the Supreme Court of India interpreted the law on sedition in various landmark judgments? Analyse the impact of these judgments on the freedom of speech and expression in India. Do you think sedition law is still relevant in a democratic country like India? Give reasons for your answer. (250 words)

Q. What are the main factors and objectives behind OPEC+ decision to decrease its oil production? Evaluate the impact of this decision on India and how shall India tackle the situation. (250 words)

Q. Examine the distinguishing features of Dravidian temple architecture and analyze the significant role played by the Chola Dynasty in shaping this architectural style. (250 words)

Q. What is urban heat island effect and what are its causes and consequences? Suggest some measures to mitigate the urban heat island effect in Indian cities. (150 words)

Essay topics:

1. The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing.

2. Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.

Case Study

Mr. Chandrakant is a principal in a college. There is a professor who happens to be the brother-in-law of an MLA of the ruling Party. The professor’s behavior towards fellow female teachers and students is derogatory. Several females have accused him of harassing them. The victims have lodged several complaints about his behavior. They are also afraid of filing a police complaint against him as he has threatened them to spoil their career if they do so.

Mr. Chandrakant is in a dilemma. He wants to act against the professor, but he also fears the political backlash from the MLA and his party. He knows that the professor is misusing his power and influence to harass the females and violate their dignity and rights. He also knows that the victims are suffering from mental trauma and insecurity due to the professor's actions.

1. What are the ethical issues involved in this case?

2. What are the options available for Mr. Chandrakant?

3. What should Mr. Chandrakant do and why?

Q. What are the main teachings of Socrates and how are they relevant for ethical decision making in public service? Illustrate with examples. (150 words)

Q. All Birds find shelter during a rain. But Eagle avoids rain by flying above the Clouds. Problems are common, but attitude makes the difference!!!” - APJ Abdul Kalam.

Analyze the meaning and implications of this quote for a civil servant. (150 words)

Q. What is the 30*30 initiative and what are its implications for biodiversity conservation and climate change mitigation? Discuss the challenges and opportunities for India in achieving this target. (250 words)