UPSC Mains 2024 GS1 Analysis
UPSC MAINS 2024 GS-I PAPER QUESTION PAPER, ANALYSIS AND PAST YEAR TRENDS
On September 21, the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducted the General Studies (GS) Paper 1 for the Civil Service Examination (CSE) Mains 2024.
This paper consists of 20 questions divided into 2 categories based on marks; 10 questions have 10 marks ββeach, and the remaining 10 have 15 marks each.
The total marks of the GS 1 paper is 250, and the allotted time is 3 hours.
UPSC 2024 GS Paper 1: Instructions
There are TWENTY questions printed both in HINDI and in ENGLISH.
All questions are compulsory.
The number of marks carried by a question/part is indicated against it.
Answers must be written in the medium authorized in the Admission Certificate which must be stated clearly on the cover of this Question-cum-Answer (QCA) Booklet in the space provided.
No marks will be given for answers written in a medium other than the authorized one.
Answers to Questions Nos. 1 to 10 should be in 150 words, whereas answers to Questions Nos. 11 to 20 should be in 250 words.
Keep the word limit indicated in the questions in mind.
Any page or portion of the page left blank in the Question-cum-Answer Booklet must be clearly struck off.
UPSC MAINS 2024 GENERAL STUDIES PAPER 1
Q1. Underline the changes in the field of society and economy from the Rig Vedic to the later Vedic period. (Answer in 150 words) 10
Q2. Estimate the contribution of Pallavas of Kanchi for the development of art and literature of South India. (Answer in 150 words) 10
Q3. What were the events that led to the Quit India Movement? Point out its results. (Answer in 150 words) 10
Q4. What is sea surface temperature rise? How does it affect the formation of tropical cyclones? (Answer in 150 words) 10
Q5. Why do large cities tend to attract more migrants than smaller towns? Discuss in the light of conditions in developing countries. (Answer in 150 words)10
Q6. What is the phenomenon of ‘cloudbursts’? Explain. (Answer in 150 words) 10
Q7. What is the concept of a ‘demographic winter’? Is the world moving towards such a situation? Elaborate. (Answer in 150 words) 10
Q8. Distinguish between gender equality, equity and women’s empowerment. Why is it important to take gender concerns into account in programme design and implementation? (Answer in 150 words) 10
Q9. Intercaste marriages between castes which have socio-economic parity have increased, to some extent, but this is less true of interreligious marriages. Discuss. (Answer in 150 words) 10
Q10. In dealing with socio-economic Issues of development, what kind of collaboration between government, NGOs and private sector would be most productive? (Answer in 150 words) 10
Q11.“Though the great Cholas are no more yet their name is still remembered with great pride because of their highest achievements in the domain of art and architecture”. Comment. (Answer in 250 words) 15
Q12. How far is it correct to say that the First World War was fought essentially for the preservation of balance of power? (Answer in 250 words) 15
Q13. How far was the Industrial Revolution in England responsible for the decline of handicrafts and cottage industries in India? (Answer in 250 words) 15
Q14. The groundwater potential of the gangetic valley is on a serious decline. How may it affect the food security of India? (Answer in 250 words) 15
Q15. What are aurora australis and aurora borealis? How are these triggered? (Answer in 250 words) 15
Q16. What is a twister? Why are the majority of twisters observed in areas around the Gulf of Mexico? (Answer in 250 words) 15
Q17. What is regional disparity How does it differ from diversity? How serious is the issue of regional disparity in India? (Answer in 250 words) 15
Q18. Despite comprehensive policies for equity and social justice, underprivileged sections are not yet getting the full benefits of affirmative action envisaged by the Constitution. Comment. (Answer in 250 words) 15
Q19. Globalization has increased urban migration by skilled, young, unmarried women from various classes. How has this trend impacted upon their personal freedom and relationship with family? (Answer in 250 words) 15
Q20. Critically analyse the proposition that there is a high correlation between India’s cultural diversities and socio-economic marginalities. (Answer in 250 words) 15
ANALYSIS OF UPSC MAINS 2024 GENERAL STUDIES PAPER 1
Subjects |
Total Questions |
Indian Art, Architecture, Literature |
3 |
World History Indian History; Ancient, Medieval, Modern, Post-Independence |
3 |
Social Issues, Globalisation, Issues Related to Women |
7 |
World Geography and Indian Geography |
7 |
Analysis of UPSC Mains GS Paper I: Question-Wise Data
Subjects |
2018 |
2019 |
2020 |
2021 |
2022 |
2023 |
Art and Culture |
3 |
1 |
4 |
1 |
3 |
1 |
History |
3 |
4 |
2 |
5 |
2 |
5 |
Society |
10 |
7 |
6 |
6 |
6 |
6 |
Geography |
4 |
8 |
8 |
8 |
9 |
8 |
Analysis of UPSC Mains GS Paper I: Marks Wise Data
Subjects |
2018 |
2019 |
2020 |
2021 |
2022 |
2023 |
Art and Culture |
35 |
10 |
50 |
10 |
40 |
25 |
History |
25 |
65 |
25 |
65 |
35 |
50 |
Society |
120 |
90 |
90 |
80 |
60 |
90 |
Geography |
70 |
85 |
85 |
95 |
115 |
85 |
UPSC MAINS 2024 GENERAL STUDIES PAPER 1: Detail Analysis
Q1. Underline the changes in the field of society and economy from the Rig Vedic to the later Vedic period. (Answer in 150 words) 10
Analyse changes in society and economy between the Vedic and later Vedic periods. Highlight important issues such as settlement patterns, Social Structure, Agricultural and commercial practices to emphasise the shift from pastoralism to established agriculture, and the emergence of more complex social hierarchies.
Q2. Estimate the contribution of Pallavas of Kanchi for the development of art and literature of South India. (Answer in 150 words) 10
Highlights the impact of the Pallavas on South Indian art and literature, emphasising patronising temples and sculptures. Discusses Pallavas' role in the development of Dravidian architecture and contribution to literature, especially in Sanskrit and Tamil, which shows the development of cultural activities during Pallavas' reign.
Q3. What were the events that led to the Quit India Movement? Point out its results. (Answer in 150 words) 10
Identify the key events that stimulated the Quit India Movement, including the failure of the Cripps Mission and the rise of nationalist sentiment. Points out the main outcomes of the movement, and intensified British repression. Increased public participation and the campaign towards freedom in the end
Q4. What is sea surface temperature rise? How does it affect the formation of tropical cyclones? (Answer in 150 words) 10
Explain what rising sea surface temperatures mean, and how it affects the intensity and frequency of tropical cyclones. Discuss the role of warm water in cyclone formation and its potential impact on climate patterns and coastal communities.
Q5. Why do large cities tend to attract more migrants than smaller towns? Discuss in the light of conditions in developing countries. (Answer in 150 words) 10
Discuss why large cities attract more immigrants than small towns in developing countries with a focus on economic opportunities, Better service and infrastructure. Analyse how urbanisation trends influence social dynamics and migration patterns.
Q6. What is the phenomenon of ‘cloudbursts’? Explain. (Answer in 150 words) 10
Define cloudbursts and describe their characteristics. Describe the meteorological conditions that lead to these events and the impact on local weather conditions, especially in mountainous areas Including possible floods and landslides.
Q7. What is the concept of a ‘demographic winter’? Is the world moving towards such a situation? Elaborate. (Answer in 150 words) 10
Analyse the concept of "Demographic winter" and its impact on society. Assess current global demographic trends and whether these trends indicate movement towards such a scenario. By considering various factors such as the declining birth rate and age of the population.
Q8. Distinguish between gender equality, equity and women’s empowerment. Why is it important to take gender concerns into account in programme design and implementation? (Answer in 150 words) 10
Difference between gender equality, equity and women's empowerment. Discuss the importance of integrating gender concerns in the design and implementation of projects to achieve social justice and economic development.
Q9. Intercaste marriages between castes which have socio-economic parity have increased, to some extent, but this is less true of interreligious marriages. Discuss. (Answer in 150 words) 10
Examine the increase in inter-caste marriages among similar socio-economic groups, noting the challenges faced in interfaith marriage at the same time. Discuss social attitudes, cultural barriers, and the impact on social integration.
Q10. In dealing with socio-economic Issues of development, what kind of collaboration between government, NGOs and private sector would be most productive? (Answer in 150 words) 10
Analyse the most effective cooperation between governments, NGOs and the private sector in solving economic and social problems. Highlight examples of successful partnerships and non-community development outcomes.
Q11. “Though the great Cholas are no more yet their name is still remembered with great pride because of their highest achievements in the domain of art and architecture”. Comment. (Answer in 250 words) 15
Critically evaluate the dominations of the Chola dynasty in terms of art and architecture. Focus on temple construction bronze sculpture and influence on southern Indian culture. Discuss how these contributions left a lasting legacy that inspires pride and recognition.
Q12. How far is it correct to say that the First World War was fought essentially for the preservation of balance of power? (Answer in 250 words) 15
Analyse the argument that World War I was fought to preserve the balance of power. Analyze political motivations, alliances, and conflicts that lead to war and their impact on global relations.
Q13. How far was the Industrial Revolution in England responsible for the decline of handicrafts and cottage industries in India? (Answer in 250 words) 15
Analyses how the Industrial Revolution in England contributed to the decline of the handicraft and cottage industries in India. Discuss the impact of industrial development on traditional livelihoods and economic structures.
Q14. The groundwater potential of the gangetic valley is on a serious decline. How may it affect the food security of India? (Answer in 250 words) 15
Analyse the impact of declining groundwater potential in the Gangetic Valley on India's food security. Discuss the relationship between water availability for agricultural products and the security of the food supply.
Q15. What are aurora australis and aurora borealis? How are these triggered? (Answer in 250 words) 15
Define the aurora australis and aurora borealis. Explains the processes that cause these phenomena. Discuss the role of the solar wind and magnetic fields in creating these amazing natural exhibits.
Q16. What is a twister? Why are the majority of twisters observed in areas around the Gulf of Mexico? (Answer in 250 words) 15
Explain what is twister and analyse why most tornadoes occur around the Gulf of Mexico. Discuss the weather conditions that cause twister in this region.
Q17. What is regional disparity How does it differ from diversity? How serious is the issue of regional disparity in India? (Answer in 250 words) 15
Distinguish between regional differences and diversification. Analyses the significance of regional disparities in India. Discuss social and economic inequality and its impact on development and governance.
Q18. Despite comprehensive policies for equity and social justice, underprivileged sections are not yet getting the full benefits of affirmative action envisaged by the Constitution. Comment. (Answer in 250 words) 15
Critically analyse the effectiveness of affirmative action policies in India related to the benefits received by disadvantaged sections. Analyse the challenges and barriers to achieving true equality and social justice.
Q19. Globalization has increased urban migration by skilled, young, unmarried women from various classes. How has this trend impacted upon their personal freedom and relationship with family? (Answer in 250 words) 15
Examine the impact of urban migration on the personal freedoms and family relationships of skilled, young and unmarried women in developing countries. Discuss the cultural, social, and economic factors that influence their experiences.
Q20. Critically analyse the proposition that there is a high correlation between India’s cultural diversities and socio-economic marginalities. (Answer in 250 words) 15
Analyse the relationship between India's cultural diversity and socio-economic inequality. Discuss how cultural identity influences economic opportunities and social status. Uses case studies to demonstrate the challenges marginalised groups face.
Theme of the UPSC MAINS 2025 GENERAL STUDIES PAPER 1
A) Questions rooted in Indian history, such as the involvement of the Pallavas and Cholas, the transition from the Rigvedic period to the later Vedic period, and the impact of World War I, call for a clearer understanding of cultural evolution.
B) The question on the Quit India Movement should answer historical stories and analyse the movement's results. It should emphasise cause-and-effect relationships throughout history.
C) The paper asked important topics such as rising sea surface temperatures, hurricanes, the aurora borealis, and tornadoes. It shows a focus on environmental science and physical geography. These questions challenge applicants to understand natural phenomena and their broader impacts, such as how global warming contributes to tropical cyclones.
D) Gender equality and women's empowerment reflect the paper's emphasis on contemporary social issues. Candidates should explore urban migration among young women and examine the relevance of caste and religion in Indian society through questions about inter-caste and inter-religious marriage.
E) The paper includes questions about cooperation between NGOs, the private sector, and the government and challenges arising from regional differences. Applicants should analyse the role of various stakeholders in promoting economic and social progress and resolving key differences in policymaking.
F) Concerns about groundwater depletion in the Ganges Valley and its impact on food security highlight environmental sustainability challenges. This question connects resource management to broader national issues such as food security. It represents the intersection of environmental and economic considerations.
Understanding the TrendA)The GS 1 Paper contains questions that require candidates to understand current global and national trends. B)The questions encourage applicants to adopt an interdisciplinary approach, combining history with sociology, geography and Environmental Science, and economics with social equality. This paper tests candidates' ability to integrate their knowledge on different issues. C)Questions related to gender equality and Cholas's architectural role require candidates to combine theoretical principles with practical examples. In the same way, Environmental problems require a combination of scientific facts and real-world effects. |
Conclusion
UPSC Mains 2024 General Studies Paper 1 challenges candidates to analyse concepts, instead of just thinking about the facts. The exam not only tests the candidate's understanding of the topic but also emphasizes the importance of historical context, environmental problems, and economic and social development. Candidates should connect events and trends, demonstrating the ability to gather broad knowledge and present a concise answer to achieve success in the exam.
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