UPSC Civil Services Mains GS3 — Previous Year Questions 2013–2024

Paper: General Studies Paper 3 (Technology, Economic Development, Bio-diversity, Environment, Security and Disaster Management)
Verified from: insightsonindia.com, clearias.com, iasbaba.com, nextias.com (official UPSC question papers reproduced on coaching portals)
Compiled: 2026-05-03

Marks Structure by Year

2024

• year: 2024 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Examine the pattern and trend of public expenditure on social services in the post-reforms period in India. To what extent this has been in consonance with achieving the objective of inclusive growth?" topic: Economy

• year: 2024 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "What are the causes of persistent high food inflation in India? Comment on the effectiveness of the monetary policy of the RBI to control this type of inflation." topic: Economy

• year: 2024 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "What were the factors responsible for the successful implementation of land reforms in some parts of the country? Elaborate." topic: Agriculture

• year: 2024 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Explain the role of millets for ensuring health and nutritional security in India." topic: Agriculture

• year: 2024 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "What is the present world scenario of intellectual property rights with respect to life materials? Although India is second in the world to file patents, still only a few have been commercialized. Explain the reasons behind this less commercialization." topic: Science & Technology

• year: 2024 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "What is the technology being employed for electronic toll collection on highways? What are its advantages and limitations? What are the proposed changes that will make this process seamless? Would this transition carry any potential hazards?" topic: Science & Technology

• year: 2024 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Explain how narco-terrorism has emerged as a serious threat across the country. Suggest suitable measures to counter narco-terrorism." topic: Security

• year: 2024 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Describe the context and salient features of the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023." topic: Science & Technology

• year: 2024 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "Discuss the merits and demerits of the four 'Labour Codes' in the context of labour market reforms in India. What has been the progress so far in this regard?" topic: Economy

• year: 2024 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "What is the need for expanding the regional air connectivity in India? In this context, discuss the government's UDAN Scheme and its achievements." topic: Economy / Infrastructure

• year: 2024 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "What are the major challenges faced by the Indian irrigation system in recent times? State the measures taken by the government for efficient irrigation management." topic: Agriculture

• year: 2024 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "Elucidate the importance of buffer stocks for stabilizing agricultural prices in India. What are the challenges associated with the storage of buffer stock? Discuss." topic: Agriculture

• year: 2024 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "The world is facing an acute shortage of clean and safe freshwater. What are the alternative technologies which can solve this crisis? Briefly discuss any three such technologies citing their key merits and demerits." topic: Environment / Science & Technology

• year: 2024 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "What are asteroids? How real is the threat of them causing extinction of life? What strategies have been developed to prevent such a catastrophe?" topic: Science & Technology

• year: 2024 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "What is disaster resilience? How is it determined? Describe various elements of a resilience framework. Also mention the global targets of Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015-2030)." topic: Disaster Management

• year: 2024 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "Flooding in urban areas is an emerging climate-induced disaster. Discuss the causes of this disaster. Mention the features of two such major floods in the last two decades in India. Describe the policies and frameworks in India that aim at tackling such floods." topic: Disaster Management / Environment

• year: 2024 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "Industrial pollution of river water is a significant environmental issue in India. Discuss the various mitigation measures to deal with this problem and also the government's initiatives in this regard." topic: Environment

• year: 2024 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "What role do Environmental NGOs and activists play in influencing Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) outcomes for major projects in India? Cite four examples with all important details." topic: Environment

• year: 2024 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "India has a long and troubled border with China and Pakistan fraught with contentious issues. Examine the conflicting issues and security challenges along the border. Also give out the development being undertaken in these areas under the Border Area Development Programme (BADP) and Border Infrastructure and Management (BIM) Scheme." topic: Security

• year: 2024 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "Social media and encrypting messaging services pose a serious security challenge. What measures have been adopted at various levels to address the security implications of social media? Also suggest any other remedies to address the problem." topic: Security / Science & Technology

2023

• year: 2023 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "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." topic: Economy

• year: 2023 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "What is the status of digitalization in the Indian economy? Examine the problems faced in this regard and suggest improvements." topic: Economy / Science & Technology

• year: 2023 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "How does e-Technology help farmers in production and marketing of agricultural produce? Explain it." topic: Agriculture / Science & Technology

• year: 2023 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "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." topic: Agriculture

• year: 2023 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "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 healthcare?" topic: Science & Technology

• year: 2023 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Discuss several ways in which microorganisms can help in meeting the current fuel shortage." topic: Science & Technology / Environment

• year: 2023 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Dam failures are always catastrophic, especially on the downstream side, resulting in a colossal loss of life and property. Analyse the various causes of dam failures. Give two examples of large dam failures." topic: Disaster Management

• year: 2023 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "What is oil pollution? What are its impacts on the marine ecosystem? In what way is oil pollution particularly harmful for a country like India?" topic: Environment

• year: 2023 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "'Winning of Hearts and Minds' in terrorism affected areas is an essential step in restoring the trust of the population. Discuss the measures adopted by the Government in this respect as part of the conflict resolution in Jammu and Kashmir." topic: Security

• year: 2023 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "The use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) by our adversaries across the borders to ferry arms/ammunitions, drugs, etc, is a serious threat to the internal security. Comment on the measures being taken to tackle this threat." topic: Security / Science & Technology

• year: 2023 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "Most of the unemployment in India is structural in nature. Examine the methodology adopted to compute unemployment in the country and suggest improvements." topic: Economy

• year: 2023 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "Distinguish between 'care economy' and 'monetised economy'. How can care economy be brought into monetised economy through women empowerment?" topic: Economy / Social

• year: 2023 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "Explain the changes in cropping patterns in India in the context of changes in consumption patterns and marketing conditions." topic: Agriculture

• year: 2023 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "What are the direct and indirect subsidies provided to the farm sector in India? Discuss the issues raised by the World Trade Organization (WTO) in relation to agricultural subsidies." topic: Agriculture / Economy

• year: 2023 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "The adoption of electric vehicles is rapidly growing worldwide. How do electric vehicles contribute to reducing carbon emissions and what are the key benefits they offer compared to traditional combustion engine vehicles?" topic: Science & Technology / Environment

• year: 2023 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "What is the main task of India's third moon mission which could not be achieved in its earlier mission? List the countries that have achieved this task. Introduce the subsystems in the spacecraft launched and explain the role of the 'Virtual Launch Control Centre' at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre which contributed to the successful launch from Sriharikota." topic: Science & Technology

• year: 2023 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "Comment on the National Wetland Conservation Programme initiated by the Government of India and name a few India's wetlands of international importance included in the Ramsar Sites." topic: Environment / Biodiversity

• year: 2023 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has predicted a global sea level rise of about one metre by AD 2100. What would be its impact in India and the other countries in the Indian Ocean region?" topic: Environment / Disaster Management

• year: 2023 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "What are the internal security challenges being faced by India? Give out the role of Central Intelligence and Investigative Agencies tasked to counter such threats." topic: Security

• year: 2023 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "Give out the major sources of terror funding in India and the efforts being made to curtail these sources. In the light of this, also discuss the aim and objective of the 'No Money for Terror' (NMFT) Conference recently held at New Delhi in November 2022." topic: Security

2022

• year: 2022 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Why is Public Private Partnership (PPP) required in infrastructural projects? Examine the role of PPP model in the redevelopment of Railway Stations in India." topic: Economy / Infrastructure

• year: 2022 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Is inclusive growth possible under market economy? State the significance of financial inclusion in achieving economic growth in India." topic: Economy

• year: 2022 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "What are the major challenges of Public Distribution System (PDS) in India? How can it be made effective and transparent?" topic: Agriculture / Economy

• year: 2022 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Elaborate the scope and significance of the food processing industry in India." topic: Agriculture / Economy

• year: 2022 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "The increase in life expectancy in the country has led to newer health challenges in the community. What are those challenges and what steps need to be taken to meet them?" topic: Science & Technology / Social

• year: 2022 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Each year a large amount of plant material, cellulose, is deposited on the surface of Planet Earth. What are the natural processes this cellulose undergoes before yielding carbon dioxide, water and other end products?" topic: Science & Technology / Environment

• year: 2022 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Discuss in detail the photochemical smog emphasising its formation, effects and mitigation. Explain the 1999 Gothenburg Protocol." topic: Environment

• year: 2022 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Explain the mechanism and occurrence of cloudburst in the context of Indian subcontinent. Discuss two recent examples." topic: Disaster Management

• year: 2022 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Discuss the types of organised crime. Describe the linkages between terrorists and organised crime that exist at the national and transnational levels." topic: Security

• year: 2022 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "What are the maritime security challenges in India? Discuss the organisational, technical and procedural initiatives taken to improve the maritime security." topic: Security

• year: 2022 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "Economic growth in the recent past has been led by increase in labour productivity. Explain this statement. Suggest the growth pattern that will lead to creation of more jobs without compromising labour productivity." topic: Economy

• year: 2022 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "Do you think India will meet 50 percent of its energy needs from renewable energy by 2030? Justify your answer. How will the shift of subsidies from fossil fuels to renewables help achieve the above objective? Explain." topic: Environment / Economy

• year: 2022 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "What are the main bottlenecks in upstream and downstream process of marketing of agricultural products in India?" topic: Agriculture

• year: 2022 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "What is Integrated Farming System? How is it helpful to small and marginal farmers in India?" topic: Agriculture

• year: 2022 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "Launched on 25th December, 2021, James Webb Space Telescope has been much in the news since then. What are its unique features which make it superior to its predecessor Space Telescopes? What are the key goals of this mission? What potential benefits does it hold for the human race?" topic: Science & Technology

• year: 2022 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "What is the basic principle behind vaccine development? How do vaccines work? What approaches were adopted by the Indian vaccine manufacturers to produce COVID-19 vaccines?" topic: Science & Technology

• year: 2022 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "Discuss global warming and mention its effects on global climate. Explain the control measures to bring down the level of greenhouse gases which cause global warming, in the light of Kyoto Protocol, 1997." topic: Environment

• year: 2022 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "Explain the causes and effects of coastal erosion in India. What are the available coastal management techniques for combating the hazard?" topic: Environment / Disaster Management

• year: 2022 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "What are the different elements of cyber security? Keeping in view the challenges in cyber security, examine the extent to which India has successfully developed a comprehensive National Cyber Security Strategy." topic: Security / Science & Technology

• year: 2022 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "Naxalism is a social, economic and developmental issue manifesting as a violent internal security threat. In this context, discuss the emerging issues and suggest a multilayered strategy to tackle the menace of Naxalism." topic: Security

2021

• year: 2021 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Explain the difference between the computing methodology of India's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) before the year 2015 and after the year 2015." topic: Economy

• year: 2021 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Distinguish between Capital Budget and Revenue Budget. Explain the components of both these Budgets." topic: Economy

• year: 2021 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "How did land reforms in some parts of the country help to improve the socio-economic conditions of marginal and small farmers?" topic: Agriculture

• year: 2021 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "How and to what extent would micro-irrigation help in solving India's water crisis?" topic: Agriculture

• year: 2021 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Why is the S-400 air defence system technically superior to other currently available air defence systems?" topic: Security / Science & Technology

• year: 2021 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Explain the purpose of the Green Grid Initiative launched at COP26. When was this idea first floated in the International Solar Alliance?" topic: Environment / Science & Technology

• year: 2021 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "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 the previous guidelines from 2005? What changes do these new guidelines necessitate in the National Clean Air Programme of India?" topic: Environment

• year: 2021 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Discuss 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." topic: Disaster Management

• year: 2021 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "How do emerging technologies and globalisation help in the spread of money laundering activities? Mention the steps taken by the Indian Government to deal with the problem." topic: Security / Economy

• year: 2021 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "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 the threats." topic: Security

• year: 2021 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "Has the experience of the recent COVID-19 pandemic caused any rethink in the approach of the Indian Government to the issue of the 'V-shaped recovery' of the economy? Give a detailed account." topic: Economy

• year: 2021 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "Discuss how investments in infrastructure are essential for rapid and inclusive economic growth in India." topic: Economy / Infrastructure

• year: 2021 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "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?" topic: Agriculture / Social

• year: 2021 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "What are the challenges before crop diversification? How do emerging technologies provide opportunities for crop diversification?" topic: Agriculture / Science & Technology

• year: 2021 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "What are the research and developmental achievements in applied biotechnology? How will these achievements help to uplift the poorer sections of the society?" topic: Science & Technology

• year: 2021 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "How is the 'Blue LED' Nobel Prize (2014) product proving to be immensely useful to human beings everywhere? Elaborate." topic: Science & Technology

• year: 2021 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "Describe the major outcomes of the 26th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP26) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). What are India's commitments at this conference?" topic: Environment

• year: 2021 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "Describe the various causes and the effects of landslides. Mention the important components of the National Landslide Risk Management Strategy." topic: Disaster Management

• year: 2021 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "Analyse the complexity and intensity of terrorism, its causes, linkages and obnoxious nexus. Suggest measures required to be taken to eradicate the menace of terrorism." topic: Security

• year: 2021 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "Examine the scope of Forensic Science in the detection of crime in India. How will the deployment of these technologies help the subsistence of the rule of law in the country?" topic: Science & Technology / Security

2020

• year: 2020 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Explain intra-generational and inter-generational issues of equity from the perspective of inclusive growth and sustainable development." topic: Economy

• year: 2020 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Define potential GDP and explain its determinants. What are the factors that have been inhibiting India from realizing its potential GDP?" topic: Economy

• year: 2020 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "What are the main constraints in transport and marketing of agricultural produce in India?" topic: Agriculture

• year: 2020 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "What are the challenges and opportunities of food processing sector in the country? How can the income of the farmers be substantially increased by encouraging food processing?" topic: Agriculture / Economy

• year: 2020 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "What do you understand by nanotechnology and how is it helping in the health sector?" topic: Science & Technology

• year: 2020 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "How is science interwoven deeply with our lives? What are the striking changes in agriculture triggered off by the science-based technologies?" topic: Science & Technology / Agriculture

• year: 2020 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "How does the draft Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2020 differ from the existing EIA Notification, 2006?" topic: Environment

• year: 2020 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "What are the salient features of the Jal Shakti Abhiyan launched by the Government of India for water conservation and water security?" topic: Environment / Agriculture

• year: 2020 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Discuss different types of cybercrimes and measures required to be taken to fight the menace." topic: Security / Science & Technology

• year: 2020 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "For effective border area management, discuss the steps required to be taken to deny local support to militants and also suggest ways to manage favourable perception among locals." topic: Security

• year: 2020 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "Explain the meaning of investment in an economy in terms of capital formation. Discuss the factors to be considered while designing a concession agreement between a public entity and a private entity." topic: Economy

• year: 2020 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "Explain the rationale behind the Goods and Services Tax (Compensation to States) Act of 2017. How has COVID-19 impacted the GST compensation fund and created new federal tensions?" topic: Economy

• year: 2020 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "What are the major factors responsible for making rice-wheat system a success? In spite of this success how has this system become a bane in India?" topic: Agriculture

• year: 2020 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "Suggest measures to improve water storage and irrigation system to make its judicious use under depleting scenario." topic: Agriculture / Environment

• year: 2020 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "COVID-19 pandemic has caused unprecedented devastation worldwide. However, technological advancements are being availed readily to win over the crisis. Give an account of how technology was sought to aid management of the pandemic." topic: Science & Technology

• year: 2020 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "Describe the benefits of deriving electric energy from sunlight in contrast to the conventional energy generation. What are the initiatives offered by the Government for this purpose?" topic: Environment / Science & Technology

• year: 2020 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "What are the key features of the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) initiated by the Government of India?" topic: Environment

• year: 2020 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "Discuss the recent measures initiated in disaster management by the Government of India departing from the earlier reactive approach." topic: Disaster Management

• year: 2020 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "What are the determinants of left-wing extremism in Eastern part of India? What strategy should Government of India, civil administration and security forces adopt to counter the threat in the affected areas?" topic: Security

• year: 2020 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "Analyse internal security threats and transborder crimes along Myanmar, Bangladesh and Pakistan borders including Line of Control (LoC). Also discuss the role played by various security forces in this regard." topic: Security

2019

• year: 2019 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Enumerate the indirect taxes which have been subsumed in the Goods and Services Tax (GST) in India. Also, comment on the revenue implications of the GST introduced in India since July 2017." topic: Economy

• year: 2019 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Do you agree with the view that steady GDP growth and low inflation have left the Indian economy in good shape? Give reasons in support of your arguments." topic: Economy

• year: 2019 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "How far is Integrated Farming System (IFS) helpful in sustaining agricultural production?" topic: Agriculture

• year: 2019 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Elaborate the impact of National Watershed Project in increasing agricultural production from water-stressed areas." topic: Agriculture / Environment

• year: 2019 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "How was India benefitted from the contributions of Sir M. Visvesvaraya and Dr. M. S. Swaminathan in the fields of water engineering and agricultural science respectively?" topic: Agriculture / Science & Technology

• year: 2019 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "What is India's plan to have its own space station and how will it benefit our space programme?" topic: Science & Technology

• year: 2019 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Coastal sand mining, whether legal or illegal, poses one of the biggest threats to our environment. Analyse the impact of sand mining along the Indian coasts, citing specific examples." topic: Environment

• year: 2019 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Vulnerability is an essential element for defining disaster impacts and its threat to people. How and in what ways can vulnerability to disasters be characterized? Discuss different types of vulnerability with reference to disasters." topic: Disaster Management

• year: 2019 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "The banning of 'Jamaat-e-Islami' in Jammu and Kashmir brought into focus the role of over-ground workers (OGWs) in assisting terrorist organizations. Examine the role played by OGWs in assisting terrorist organizations in insurgency affected areas. Discuss measures to neutralize the influence of OGWs." topic: Security

• year: 2019 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "What is CyberDome Project? Explain how it can be useful in controlling internet crimes in India." topic: Security / Science & Technology

• year: 2019 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "It is argued that the strategy of inclusive growth is intended to meet the objectives of inclusiveness and sustainability together. Comment on this statement. How successful has India been in achieving these objectives?" topic: Economy

• year: 2019 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "The public expenditure management is a challenge to the government of India in the context of budget making during the post-liberalization period. Clarify it." topic: Economy

• year: 2019 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "What are the reformative steps taken by the government to make food grain distribution system more effective?" topic: Agriculture / Economy

• year: 2019 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "Elaborate the policy taken by the government of India to meet the challenges of the food processing sector." topic: Agriculture / Economy

• year: 2019 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "How is the Government of India protecting traditional knowledge of medicine from patenting by pharmaceutical companies?" topic: Science & Technology

• year: 2019 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "How can biotechnology improve the living standards of farmers?" topic: Science & Technology / Agriculture

• year: 2019 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "Define the concept of carrying capacity of an ecosystem as relevant to an environment. Explain how understanding this concept is vital while planning for sustainable development of a region." topic: Environment / Biodiversity

• year: 2019 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "Disaster preparedness is the first step in any disaster management process. Explain how hazard zonation mapping will help in disaster mitigation in the case of landslides." topic: Disaster Management

• year: 2019 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "Indian government has recently strengthened the anti-terrorism laws by amending the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967 and the NIA Act. Analyze the changes in the context of the prevailing security environment while discussing scope and reasons for opposing the UAPA amendment." topic: Security

• year: 2019 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "Cross-border movement of insurgents is only one of the several security challenges facing the policing of the border in North-East India. Examine the various challenges currently emanating across the India-Myanmar border." topic: Security

2018

• year: 2018 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy is a sine qua non to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Comment on the progress made in India in this regard." topic: Economy / Environment

• year: 2018 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Comment on the important changes introduced with respect to the Long-term Capital Gain Tax (LCGT) and Dividend Distribution Tax (DDT) in the Union Budget for 2018-2019." topic: Economy

• year: 2018 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "What do you mean by Minimum Support Price (MSP)? How will MSP rescue the farmers from the low-income traps?" topic: Agriculture

• year: 2018 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Examine the role of supermarkets in the supply chain management of fruits, vegetables, and food items. How do they eliminate the number of intermediaries?" topic: Agriculture / Economy

• year: 2018 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Discuss the work of 'Bose-Einstein Statistics' done by Prof. Satyendra Nath Bose and show how it revolutionized the field of physics." topic: Science & Technology

• year: 2018 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "What are the impediments in disposing of the huge quantities of discarded solid wastes that are continuously being generated? How do we remove safely the toxic wastes that have been accumulating in our habitable environment?" topic: Environment

• year: 2018 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "What is wetland? Explain the Ramsar concept of 'wise use' in the context of wetland conservation. Cite two examples of Ramsar sites from India." topic: Environment / Biodiversity

• year: 2018 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Sikkim is the first 'Organic State' in India. What are the ecological and economic benefits of an Organic State?" topic: Agriculture / Environment

• year: 2018 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is viewed as a cardinal subset of China's larger 'One Belt One Road' initiative. Give a brief description of CPEC and enumerate the reasons why India has distanced itself from the same." topic: Security

• year: 2018 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Left-wing extremism (LWE) is showing a downward trend, but still affects many parts of the country. Briefly explain the Government of India's approach to counter the challenges posed by LWE." topic: Security

• year: 2018 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "How are the principles followed by the NITI Aayog different from those followed by the erstwhile Planning Commission in India?" topic: Economy

• year: 2018 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "How would the recent phenomena of protectionism and currency manipulation in world trade affect the macroeconomic stability of India?" topic: Economy

• year: 2018 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "Assess the role of the National Horticulture Mission (NHM) in boosting the production, productivity, and income of horticulture farms. How far has it succeeded in increasing the income of farmers?" topic: Agriculture

• year: 2018 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "How has the emphasis on certain crops brought about changes in cropping patterns in the recent past? Elaborate on the emphasis on millet production and consumption." topic: Agriculture

• year: 2018 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "Why is there so much activity in the field of biotechnology in our country? How has this activity benefitted the field of biopharma?" topic: Science & Technology

• year: 2018 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "With growing energy needs should India keep on extending its nuclear energy programme? Discuss the facts and fears associated with nuclear energy." topic: Science & Technology / Environment

• year: 2018 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "How does biodiversity vary in India? How is the Biological Diversity Act, 2002 helpful in the conservation of flora and fauna?" topic: Environment / Biodiversity

• year: 2018 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "Describe various measures taken in India for Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) before and after signing 'Sendai Framework for DRR (2015-2030)'. How is this framework different from the 'Hyogo Framework for Action, 2005'?" topic: Disaster Management

• year: 2018 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "Data security has assumed significant importance in the digitized world due to rising cybercrimes. The Justice B.N. Srikrishna Committee Report addresses issues related to data security. What, in your view, are the strengths and weaknesses of the Report relating to the protection of personal data in cyberspace?" topic: Security / Science & Technology

• year: 2018 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "India's proximity to two of the world's biggest illicit opium-growing states has enhanced her internal security concerns. Explain the linkages between drug trafficking and other illicit activities such as gunrunning, money laundering, and human trafficking. What countermeasures should be taken to prevent the same?" topic: Security

2017

• year: 2017 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Among several factors for India's potential growth, the savings rate is the most effective one. Do you agree? What are the other factors available for growth potential?" topic: Economy

• year: 2017 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Account for the failure of the manufacturing sector in achieving the goal of labour-intensive exports rather than capital-intensive exports. Suggest measures for more labour-intensive rather than capital-intensive exports." topic: Economy

• year: 2017 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Examine the developments of Airports in India through Joint Ventures under Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. What are the challenges faced by the authorities in this regard?" topic: Economy / Infrastructure

• year: 2017 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Explain various types of revolutions that took place in Agriculture after Independence in India. How have these revolutions helped in poverty alleviation and food security in India?" topic: Agriculture

• year: 2017 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "What are the reasons for poor acceptance of cost-effective small processing unit? How will the food processing unit be helpful to uplift the socio-economic status of poor farmers?" topic: Agriculture / Economy

• year: 2017 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Stem cell therapy is gaining popularity in India to treat a wide variety of medical conditions including leukaemia, thalassemia, damaged cornea and several burns. Describe briefly what stem cell therapy is and what advantages it has over other treatments?" topic: Science & Technology

• year: 2017 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "India has achieved remarkable successes in unmanned space missions including the Chandrayaan and Mars Orbiter Mission, but has not ventured into manned space mission, both in terms of technology and logistics. Explain critically." topic: Science & Technology

• year: 2017 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Not many years ago, river linking was a concept but it is becoming reality in the country. Discuss the advantages of river linking and its possible impact on the environment." topic: Environment / Agriculture

• year: 2017 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Discuss the potential threats of Cyberattack and the security framework to prevent it." topic: Security / Science & Technology

• year: 2017 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "The north-eastern region of India has been infested with insurgency for a very long time. Analyze the major reasons for the survival of armed insurgency in this region." topic: Security

• year: 2017 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "One of the intended objectives of Union Budget 2017-18 is to 'transform, energize and clean India'. Analyse the measures proposed in the Budget 2017-18 to achieve the objective." topic: Economy

• year: 2017 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "Industrial growth rate has lagged behind in the overall growth of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the post-reform period. Give reasons. How far are the recent changes in Industrial Policy capable of increasing the industrial growth rate?" topic: Economy

• year: 2017 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "What are the salient features of 'inclusive growth'? Has India been experiencing such a growth process? Analyse and suggest measures for inclusive growth." topic: Economy

• year: 2017 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "What are the major reasons for declining rice and wheat yield in the cropping system? How is crop diversification helpful to stabilize the yield of the crop in the system?" topic: Agriculture

• year: 2017 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "How do subsidies affect the cropping pattern, crop diversity and economy of farmers? What is the significance of crop insurance, minimum support price and food processing for small and marginal farmers?" topic: Agriculture / Economy

• year: 2017 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "Give an account of the growth and development of nuclear science and technology in India. What is the advantage of fast breeder reactor programme in India?" topic: Science & Technology

• year: 2017 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "'Climate Change' is a global problem. How will India be affected by climate change? How will the Himalayan and coastal states of India be affected by climate change?" topic: Environment

• year: 2017 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "On December 2004, tsunami brought havoc in 14 countries including India. Discuss the factors responsible for the occurrence of Tsunami and its effects on life and economy. In the light of guidelines of NDMA (2010) describe the mechanisms for preparedness to reduce the risk during such events." topic: Disaster Management

• year: 2017 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "Mob violence is emerging as a serious law and order problem in India. By giving suitable examples, analyze the causes and consequences of such violence." topic: Security

• year: 2017 paper: GS3 marks: 15 question: "The scourge of terrorism is a grave challenge to national security. What solutions do you suggest to curb this growing menace? What are the major sources of terrorist funding?" topic: Security

2016

(All 20 questions carry 12.5 marks each; 200-word answers)

• year: 2016 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "How globalization has led to the reduction of employment in the formal sector of the Indian economy? Is increased informalization detrimental to the development of the country?" topic: Economy

• year: 2016 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "Women empowerment in India needs gender budgeting. What are the requirements and status of gender budgeting in the Indian context?" topic: Economy / Social

• year: 2016 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) is necessary for bringing unbanked to the institutional finance fold. Do you agree with this for financial inclusion of the poor section of the Indian society? Give arguments to justify your opinion." topic: Economy

• year: 2016 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "What are 'Smart Cities'? Examine their relevance for urban development in India. Will it increase rural-urban differences? Give arguments for 'Smart Villages' in the light of PURA and RURBAN Mission." topic: Economy / Infrastructure

• year: 2016 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "Justify the need for FDI for the development of the Indian economy. Why is there a gap between MOUs signed and actual FDIs? Suggest remedial steps to be taken for increasing actual FDIs in India." topic: Economy

• year: 2016 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "Comment on the challenges for inclusive growth which include careless and useless manpower in the Indian context. Suggest measures to be taken for facing these challenges." topic: Economy

• year: 2016 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "What is water-use efficiency? Describe the role of micro-irrigation in increasing the water-use efficiency." topic: Agriculture / Environment

• year: 2016 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "What is allelopathy? Discuss its role in major cropping systems of irrigated agriculture." topic: Agriculture / Science & Technology

• year: 2016 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "Discuss the role of land reforms in agricultural development. Identify the factors that were responsible for the success of land reforms in India." topic: Agriculture

• year: 2016 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "Given the vulnerability of Indian agriculture to vagaries of nature, discuss the need for crop insurance and bring out the salient features of the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY)." topic: Agriculture

• year: 2016 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "Give an account of the current status and the targets to be achieved pertaining to renewable energy sources in the country. Discuss in brief the importance of National Programme on Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs)." topic: Environment / Science & Technology

• year: 2016 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "Discuss India's achievements in the field of Space Science and Technology. How has the application of this technology helped India in its socio-economic development?" topic: Science & Technology

• year: 2016 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "Why is nanotechnology one of the key technologies of the 21st century? Describe the salient features of Indian Government's Mission on Nanoscience and Technology and the scope of its application in the development process of the country." topic: Science & Technology

• year: 2016 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "Rehabilitation of human settlements is one of the important environmental impacts which always attracts controversy while planning major projects. Discuss the measures suggested for mitigation of this impact while proposing major developmental projects." topic: Environment / Disaster Management

• year: 2016 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "The frequency of urban floods due to high intensity rainfall is increasing over the years. Discussing the reasons for urban floods, highlight the mechanisms for preparedness to reduce the risk during such events." topic: Disaster Management / Environment

• year: 2016 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "With reference to National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) guidelines, discuss the measures to be adopted to mitigate the impact of recent incidents of cloudbursts in many places of Uttarakhand." topic: Disaster Management

• year: 2016 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "The terms 'Hot Pursuit' and 'Surgical Strikes' are often used in connection with armed action against terrorist attacks. Discuss the strategic impact of such actions." topic: Security

• year: 2016 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "'Terrorism is emerging as a competitive industry over the last few decades.' Analyse the above statement." topic: Security

• year: 2016 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "Border management is a complex task due to difficult terrain and hostile relations with some countries. Elucidate the challenges and strategies for effective border management." topic: Security

• year: 2016 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "Use of internet and social media by non-state actors for subversive activities is a major security concern. How have these been misused in the recent past? Suggest effective guidelines to curb the above threat." topic: Security / Science & Technology

2015

(All 20 questions carry 12.5 marks each; 200-word answers)

• year: 2015 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "The nature of economic growth in India in recent times is often described as a jobless growth. Do you agree with this view? Give arguments in favour of your answer." topic: Economy

• year: 2015 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "Livestock rearing has a big potential for providing non-farm employment and income in rural areas. Discuss suggesting suitable measures to promote this sector in India." topic: Agriculture / Economy

• year: 2015 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "In view of the declining average size of land holdings in India which has made agriculture non-viable for a majority of farmers, should contract farming and land leasing be promoted in agriculture? Critically evaluate the pros and cons." topic: Agriculture

• year: 2015 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "How can the 'Digital India' programme help farmers to improve farm productivity and income? What steps has the Government taken in this regard?" topic: Agriculture / Science & Technology

• year: 2015 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "In what way could replacement of price subsidy with Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) change the scenario of subsidies in India? Discuss." topic: Economy

• year: 2015 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "What are the impediments in marketing and supply chain management in industry in India? Can e-commerce help in overcoming these bottlenecks?" topic: Economy

• year: 2015 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "Craze for gold in Indians has led to a surge in import of gold in recent years and put pressure on balance of payments and external value of rupee. In view of this, examine the merits of Gold Monetization Scheme." topic: Economy

• year: 2015 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "Success of 'Make in India' programme depends on the success of 'Skill India' programme and radical labour reforms. Discuss with logical arguments." topic: Economy

• year: 2015 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "To what factors can the recent dramatic fall in equipment costs and tariff of solar energy be attributed? What implications does the trend have for the thermal power producers and the related industry?" topic: Environment / Science & Technology

• year: 2015 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "There is a clear acknowledgement that Special Economic Zones (SEZs) are a tool of industrial development, manufacturing and exports. Recognising this potential, the whole instrumentality of SEZs requires augmentation. Discuss the issues plaguing the success of SEZs with respect to taxation, governing laws and administration." topic: Economy

• year: 2015 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "What do you understand by 'Standard Positioning Systems' and 'Precision Positioning Systems' in the GPS era? Discuss the advantages India perceives from its ambitious IRNSS programme employing just seven satellites." topic: Science & Technology

• year: 2015 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "What are the areas of prohibitive labour that can be sustainably managed by robots? Discuss the initiatives that can propel research in premier research institutes for substantive and gainful innovation." topic: Science & Technology

• year: 2015 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "Discuss the advantages and security implications of cloud hosting of servers vis-a-vis in-house machine-based hosting for government businesses." topic: Science & Technology / Security

• year: 2015 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "India's Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL) which has a database containing formatted information on more than 2 million medicinal formulations is proving a powerful weapon in the country's fight against erroneous patents. Discuss the pros and cons of making this database publicly available under open-source licensing." topic: Science & Technology

• year: 2015 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "The Namami Gange and National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) programmes and causes of mixed results from the previous schemes. What quantum leaps can help preserve the river Ganga better than incremental inputs?" topic: Environment

• year: 2015 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "The frequency of earthquakes appears to have increased in the Indian subcontinent. However, India's preparedness for mitigating their impact has significant gaps. Discuss various aspects." topic: Disaster Management

• year: 2015 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "Human rights activists constantly highlight the view that the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 (AFSPA) is a draconian act leading to cases of human rights abuses by the security forces. What sections of AFSPA are opposed by the activists? Critically evaluate the requirement with reference to the view held by the Apex Court." topic: Security

• year: 2015 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "Religious indoctrination via digital media has resulted in Indian youth joining the ISIS. What is ISIS and its mission? How can ISIS be dangerous for the internal security of our country?" topic: Security

• year: 2015 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "The persisting drives of the government for development of large industries in backward areas have resulted in isolating the tribal population and the farmers who face multiple displacements. With Malkangiri and Naxalbari foci, discuss the corrective strategies needed to win the Left Wing Extremism (LWE) affected citizens back into the mainstream of social and economic growth." topic: Security

• year: 2015 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "Considering the threats cyberspace poses for the country, India needs a 'Digital Armed Force' to prevent crimes. Critically evaluate the National Cyber Security Policy, 2013 outlining the challenges perceived in its effective implementation." topic: Security / Science & Technology

2014

(All 20 questions carry 12.5 marks each; 200-word answers)

• year: 2014 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "Normally countries shift from agriculture to industry and then later to services, but India shifted directly from agriculture to services. What are the reasons for the huge growth of services vis-à-vis industry in the country? Can India become a developed country without a strong industrial base?" topic: Economy

• year: 2014 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "While we flaunt India's demographic dividend, we ignore the dropping rates of employability. What are we missing while doing so? Where will the jobs that India desperately needs come from? Explain." topic: Economy

• year: 2014 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "Agricultural Produce Market Committees (APMCs) established under State Acts have impeded agricultural development and caused food inflation. Critically examine this perspective." topic: Agriculture / Economy

• year: 2014 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "'In the villages itself no form of credit organization will be suitable except the cooperative society.' – All India Rural Credit Survey. Discuss this statement in the background of agricultural financing in India. What constraints does such a prognosis face today? How can a cooperative be reformed to make this possible?" topic: Agriculture / Economy

• year: 2014 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "The Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013 has come into effect from 1st January 2014. What key issues does it address? What implications does it have for industrialisation and agriculture in India?" topic: Agriculture / Economy

• year: 2014 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "Capitalism has guided the world economy to unprecedented prosperity. However, it often encourages short-sightedness and is fundamentally incompatible with social justice. In the light of these inherent contradictions, is it possible to evolve a sustainable economic model of development? Discuss." topic: Economy

• year: 2014 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "How can Public Private Partnership (PPP) arrangements in infrastructure projects be made more beneficial for the community? Discuss with suitable examples what safeguards can be taken to ensure that the future generations are not burdened with unsustainable liabilities." topic: Economy / Infrastructure

• year: 2014 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "National Urban Transport Policy emphasizes on 'moving people' rather than 'moving vehicles'. Discuss critically the success of the various strategies of the Government in this regard." topic: Economy / Infrastructure

• year: 2014 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the defence sector is now being allowed through the government route. What influence is this expected to have on Indian defence and economy in the short and long run?" topic: Economy / Security

• year: 2014 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "Scientific research in Indian universities is declining because a career in scientific research has lost its attractiveness due to the quality of life of a scientist. This has adversely affected our competitiveness in knowledge industries. Critically comment." topic: Science & Technology

• year: 2014 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "Can overuse and free availability of antibiotics without Doctor's prescription, be contributors to the emergence of drug-resistant diseases in India? What are the available mechanisms for monitoring and control? Critically discuss the various issues involved." topic: Science & Technology

• year: 2014 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "In a globalized world, Intellectual Property Rights assume significance and are a source of litigation. Broadly distinguish between the terms — Copyrights, Patents and Trade Secrets." topic: Science & Technology

• year: 2014 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "Should the pursuit of carbon credits and clean development mechanisms set up under UNFCCC be maintained even though there has been a massive slide in the value of a carbon credit? Discuss with respect to India's energy needs for economic growth." topic: Environment

• year: 2014 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "Drought has been recognized as a disaster in view of its spatial expanse, temporal duration, slow onset and lasting effects on vulnerable sections. With a focus on the September 2010 guidelines from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), discuss the mechanisms for preparedness to deal with likely El Niño and La Niña fallouts in India." topic: Disaster Management

• year: 2014 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "Environmental Impact Assessment studies are increasingly undertaken before a project is cleared by the Government. Discuss the environmental impacts of coal-fired thermal plants located at coal pitheads." topic: Environment

• year: 2014 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "The diverse nature of India as a multi-religious and multi-ethnic society is not immune to the impact of radicalism which is seen in her neighbourhood. Discuss along with strategies to be adopted to counter this environment." topic: Security

• year: 2014 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "International civil aviation laws provide all countries complete and exclusive sovereignty over the airspace above their territory. What do you understand by 'airspace'? What are the implications of these laws on the space above this airspace? Discuss the challenges which this poses and suggest ways to contain the threat." topic: Security / Science & Technology

• year: 2014 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "How does illegal trans-border migration pose a threat to India's security? Discuss the strategies to curb this, bringing out the factors which give impetus to such migration." topic: Security

• year: 2014 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "In 2012, the longitudinal marking for high-risk areas for piracy was moved from 65 degrees east to 78 degrees east in the Arabian Sea by the International Maritime Organisation. What impact does this have on India's maritime security concerns?" topic: Security

• year: 2014 paper: GS3 marks: 12.5 question: "China and Pakistan have entered into an agreement for development of an economic corridor. What threat does this pose for India's security? Critically examine." topic: Security

2013

Note: 2013 GS3 had 25 questions. Most carried 10 marks (200-word limit); questions 9, 16, and 17 had two sub-parts of 5 marks each (100-word limit).

• year: 2013 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "With a consideration towards the strategy of inclusive growth, the new Companies Bill, 2013 has indirectly made CSR a mandatory obligation. Discuss the challenges expected in its implementation in right earnest. Also discuss other provisions in the Bill and their implications." topic: Economy

• year: 2013 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "What are the reasons for the introduction of Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management (FRBM) Act, 2003? Discuss critically its salient features and their effectiveness." topic: Economy

• year: 2013 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "What is the meaning of the term 'tax expenditure'? Taking housing sector as an example, discuss how it influences the budgetary policies of the government." topic: Economy

• year: 2013 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Food Security Bill is expected to eliminate hunger and malnutrition in India. Critically discuss various apprehensions in its effective implementation along with the concerns it has generated in WTO." topic: Agriculture / Economy

• year: 2013 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "What are the different types of agriculture subsidies given to farmers at the national and state levels? Critically analyse the effectiveness of subsidies in terms of resultant output, cost, and sustainability of agricultural production." topic: Agriculture

• year: 2013 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "India needs to strengthen measures to promote the Pink Revolution in food industry for better nutrition and health. Critically elucidate the statement." topic: Agriculture

• year: 2013 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Examine the impact of liberalization on companies owned by Indian in comparison to the impact on companies owned by foreign companies in India." topic: Economy

• year: 2013 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Establish the relationship between land reform, agricultural productivity and elimination of rural poverty. Elucidate the circumstance in which the relationship would be effective." topic: Agriculture / Economy

• year: 2013 paper: GS3 marks: 5 question: "(9A) Discuss the impact of FDI entry into multi-trade retail sector on supply chain management in commodity trade patterns of the economy." topic: Economy

• year: 2013 paper: GS3 marks: 5 question: "(9B) Though India allowed foreign direct investment (FDI) in what is called multi-brand retail through the joint venture route in September 2012, the FDI, even after a year, has not picked up. Discuss the reasons." topic: Economy

• year: 2013 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Discuss the rationale for introducing the Goods and Services Tax (GST) in India. Bring out critically the reasons for the delay in its roll out." topic: Economy

• year: 2013 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Write a note on India's green energy corridor to alleviate the problem of conventional energy." topic: Environment / Science & Technology

• year: 2013 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Adoption of PPP model for infrastructure development of the country has not been free of criticism. Critically discuss the pros and cons of the model." topic: Economy / Infrastructure

• year: 2013 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Bringing out the circumstances in 2005 which forced amendment to the section 3(d) in Indian Patent Law, 1970, discuss how it has been utilized by the Supreme Court in its judgement in rejecting Novartis' patent application for 'Glivec'. Discuss briefly the pros and cons of the decision." topic: Science & Technology

• year: 2013 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "What do you understand by Fixed Dose Drug Combinations (FDCs)? Discuss their merits and demerits." topic: Science & Technology

• year: 2013 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "What do you understand by Umpire Decision Review System in cricket? Discuss its various components. Explain how silicon tape helps in on-field decision-making for the Leg Before Wicket decisions." topic: Science & Technology

• year: 2013 paper: GS3 marks: 5 question: "(16A) What is a digital signature? What does its authentication mean? Discuss the legal validity of a digital signature." topic: Science & Technology

• year: 2013 paper: GS3 marks: 5 question: "(16B) How does the 3D printing technology work? List out the advantages and disadvantages of the technology." topic: Science & Technology

• year: 2013 paper: GS3 marks: 5 question: "(17A) What is an FRP composite material? How are they manufactured? Discuss their application in aviation and automobile sectors." topic: Science & Technology

• year: 2013 paper: GS3 marks: 5 question: "(17B) What do you understand by run of the river hydroelectricity project? How is it different from any other hydroelectricity project?" topic: Science & Technology / Environment

• year: 2013 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "How important are vulnerability and risk assessment for pre-disaster management? As an administrator, what are key areas that you would focus on in a Disaster Management Plan?" topic: Disaster Management

• year: 2013 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "What are the consequences of illegal mining? Discuss the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) concept of GO/NO GO zones for coal mining sector." topic: Environment

• year: 2013 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Enumerate the National Water Policy of India. Taking river Ganges as an example, discuss the strategies which may be adopted for river water pollution control and management. What are the legal provisions for management and handling of hazardous wastes in India?" topic: Environment

• year: 2013 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Money laundering poses a serious threat to a country's economic sovereignty. What is its significance for India and what steps are required to be taken to control this menace?" topic: Security / Economy

• year: 2013 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "What are social networking sites and what security implications do these sites present? What steps have the Indian Government taken or need to take in this regard?" topic: Security / Science & Technology

• year: 2013 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Cyber warfare is considered by some defence analysts to be a larger threat than even Al Qaeda or terrorism. What do you understand by Cyber warfare? Outline the cyber threats which India faces and the state of the country's preparedness to deal with them." topic: Security / Science & Technology

• year: 2013 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "Article 244 of Indian Constitution relates to Administration of Scheduled areas and Tribal areas. What steps have been taken by the Union Government to improve the administration of these areas especially in the context of the growth of Left Wing Extremism?" topic: Security

• year: 2013 paper: GS3 marks: 10 question: "How far are India's internal security challenges linked with border management and specific states? Discuss with specific examples." topic: Security

Verification Status

Total questions collected: 245 (220 for 2014-2024 + 25 for 2013)