Syllabus (2023) Predictions 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 Average Percentage

Art & Architecture 25 10 40 35 10 25 12.5 20 30 20.75 8.30%

Indian art forms (Painting, dances, music, Indian Philosophy and tradition played a significant Safeguarding the Indian art heritage is the need How do you justify the view that the level of Early Buddhist Stupa-art, while depicting folk Gandhara sculpture owed as much to the Discuss the Tandava dance as recorded in the
puppetry, pottery, drama, martial and role in conceiving and shaping the monuments and of the moment. Comment (150) excellence of the Gupta numismatic art is not at motifs and narratives, successfully expounds Romans as to the Greeks. Explain. early Indian inscriptions. 6.75 2.70%
visual arts) their art in India. Discuss. (250) all noticeable in later times? (150) Buddhist ideals. Elucidate.

Architecture (Harrapan, maurya, Post 1) How will you explain the medieval Indian temple The rock-cut architecture represents one of the Mesolithic rock cut architecture of India not only Chola architecture represents a high watermark
sculptures represent the social life of those days? (150) most important sources of our knowledge of early reflects the cultural life of the times but also a in the evolution of temple architecture. Discuss.
maurya, temple, cave, indo-islamic, 5.75 2.30%
2) Discuss the significance of the lion and bull figures in Indian art and history. Discuss. (150) fine aesthetic sense comparable to modern
colonial, bushist & jainist, rock cut) Indian mythology, art and architecture. (250) painting. Critically evaluate this comment.
Persian literary sources of medieval India reflect the Assess the importance of the accounts of the Krishnadeva Raya, the king of Vijayanagar, was Though not very useful from the point of view of
Literature (Sanskrit, budhist, jainist, spirit of the age. Comment. (250) Chinese and Arab travellers in the not only an accomplished scholar himself but a connected political history of South India , the
reconstruction of the history of India. (150) was a also a great patron of learning and Sangam literature portrays the social and 4.75 1.90%
dravidian, medieval) literature. Discuss. economic conditions of its time with remarkable
vividness. Comment.
Evaluate the nature of the Bhakti Literature and its The Bhakti movement received a remarkable Sufis and medieval mystic saints failed to
contribution to Indian culture. (150) re-orientation with the advent of Sri Chaitanya modify either the religious ideas and practices
Bhakti and Sufi movements 3.5 1.40%
Mahaprabhu. Discuss. (250) or the outward structure of Hindu / Muslim
societies to any appreciable extent. Comment.
Ancient 15 10 12.5 20 5.75 2.30%
Pre-historic (Stone, chalcolithic and stone
0 0.00%
age)
The ancient civilization in Indian sub continent To what extent has the urban planning and
differed from those of Egypt, Mesopotamia and culture of the Indus Valley Civilization provided
IVC Greece in that its culture and traditions have inputs to the present day urbanization? Discuss. 2.25 0.90%
been preserved without breakdown to the
present day. Comment.
Vedic society 0 0.00%
Pre-Maurya period 0 0.00%
Pala period is the most significant phase in the
Jainism and Budhism history of Buddhism in India. Enumerate. (150)
1 0.40%
Maurya empire 0 0.00%
Discuss the main contributions of Gupta period and Chola Taxila university was one of the oldest
period to Indian heritage and culture . (250) universities of the world with which were
associated a number of renowned learned
Post Maurya (Guptas, Harsha) personalities of different disciplines. Its strategic 2.5 1.00%
location caused its fame to flourish, but unlike
Nalanda, it is not considered as a university in
the modern sense. Discuss.
Southern dynasties 0 0.00%
Medieval 0 0%
Delhi Sultanate
Mughals
Sur
Marathas
Deccan
Modern 35 40 25 50 25 50 37.5 37.5 30 30 36 14.40%
Tribal and peasant mov 0 0
Trace the rise and growth of socio-religious reform Examine the linkages between the nineteenth The women’s questions arose in modern India
movements with special reference to Young Bengal century’s ‘Indian Renaissance’ and the emergence as a part of the 19th century social reform
Reform mov and Brahmo Samaj. (150) of national identity. (150) movement. What are the major issues and 3.5 1.40%
debates concerning women in that period?
(250)
1) Why did the armies of the British East India Company – Why indentured labour was taken by the British 1) Clarify how mid-eighteenth century India was 1) The third battle of Panipat was fought in In many ways, Lord Dalhousie was the founder
mostly comprising of Indian soldiers – win consistently from India to their colonies? have they been beset with the spectre of a fragmented polity. 1761. Why were so many empire-shaking of modern India. Elaborate.
against the more numerous and better equipped armies of able to preserve their cultural identity over (150) battles fought at Panipat?
the Indian rulers? Give reasons. (150) there? (250) 2) Examine how the decline of traditional 2) Examine critically the various facets of
2) Why was there a sudden spurt in famines in colonial artisanal industry in colonial India crippled the economic policies of the British in India from
Pre 1857 India since the mid-eighteenth century? Give reasons. rural economy. (250) mid-eighteenth century till independence. 10.5 4.20%
(150)
3) The political and administrative reorganization of states
and territories has been a continuous ongoing process
since the mid-nineteenth century. Discuss with examples.
(250)
The 1857 uprising was the culmination of the Explain how the upraising of 1857 constitutes
recurrent, big and small local rebellions that had an important watershed in the evolution of
Revolt of 1857 2.25 0.90%
occurred in the preceding hundred years of British British policies towards colonial India.
rule. Elucidate. (150)
To what extent did the role of the moderates prepare Evaluate the policies of Lord Curzon and their long Why did the ‘Moderates’ failed to carry Defying the barriers of age, gender and religion,
a base for the wider freedom movement? Comment. term implications on the national movements. (150) conviction with the nation about their proclaimed the Indian women became the torch bearer
Growth of nationalism (1858-1905) 4.5 1.80%
(250) ideology and political goals by the end of the during the struggle for freedom in India.
nineteenth century? (150) Discuss.
Several foreigners made India their homeland
Militant and revolutionary (1905-1918) and participated in various movements. Analyze 1 0.40%
their role in the Indian struggle for freedom.
Bring out the constructive programmes of Mahatma Since the decade of the 1920s, the national Many voices had strengthened and enriched the Throw light on the significance of the thoughts 1) Discuss the role of women in the freedom 1) How difficult would have been the
Gandhi during Non-Cooperation Movement and Civil movement acquired various ideological strands and nationalist movement during the Gandhian phase. of Mahatma Gandhi in the present times. (150) struggle especially during the Gandhian phase. achievement of Indian independence without
Disobedience Movement. (250) thereby expanded its social base. Discuss. (250) Elaborate. (250) 2) Highlight the differences in the approach of Mahatma Gandhi? Discuss.
Subhash Chandra Bose and Mahatma Gandhi 2) Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. B R Ambedkar,
in the struggle for freedom. despite having divergent approaches and
strategies, had a common goal of amelioration
Beginning of mass nationalism (1919-
of the downtrodden. Elucidate. 11.75 4.70%
1939) 3) It would have been difficult for the
Constituent Assembly to complete its historic
task of drafting the Constitution for Independent
India in just three years, but its experience
gained with the Government of India Act, 1935 .
Discuss.
Assess the role of British imperial power in In what ways did the naval mutiny prove to be
Towards freedom and partition (1939-
complicating the process of transfer of power the last nail in the coffin of British colonial 2.5 1.00%
1947) during the 1940s. (250) aspirations in India?
Post-Independence 10 15 25 12.5 12.5 50 12.5 5%
Assess the main administrative issues and socio- Discuss whether formation of new states in 1) What are the two major legal initiatives by the Has the formation of linguistic states The New Economic Policy – 1921 of Lenin had 1) Critically discuss the objectives of Bhoodan
cultural problems in the integration process of Indian recent times is beneficial or not for the economy State since Independence addressing strengthened the cause of Indian unity? influenced the policies adopted by India soon and Gramdan movements initiated by Acharya
Princely States. (150) of India. (250) discrimination against Scheduled Tribes(STs)? after independence. Evaluate. Vinoba Bhave and their success.
(150) 2) Write a critical note on the evolution and
2) Highlight the importance of the new significance of the slogan “Jai Jawana Jai
objectives that got added to the vision of Indian Kisan”. 3) Discuss
Independence since the twenties of the last the contribution of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad to
Consolidation and organisation
century. (250) pre-and post independent India.
4) Analyse the circumstances t hat led to
Tashkent Agreement in 1966. Discuss the
highlights of the agreement. 5)
Critically examine the compulsions which
prompted India to play a decisive roles in the
emergence of Bangladesh.
World History 15 15 10 12.5 25 20 40 13.75 5.50%
There arose a serious challenge to the Democratic Explain how the foundations of the modern world To what extend can Germany be held 1) What were the major political, economic and American Revolution was an economic revolt
State System between the two World Wars.” were laid by the American and French Revolutions. responsible for causing the two World Wars? social developments in the world which against mercantilism. Substantiate.
Evaluate the statement. (250) (250) Discuss critically. motivated the anti-colonial struggle in India?
World wars & revolutions 2) What were the events that led to the Suez
7.25 2.90%
Crisis in 1956? How did it deal a final blow to
Britain’s self-image as a world power?
Why did the industrial revolution first occur in “Latecomer” Industrial revolution in Japan
England? Discuss the quality of life of the involved certain factors that were markedly
Industrial revolution people there during the industrialization. How different from what west had experience. 2.25 0.90%
does it compare with that in India at present
times?
What problems are germane to the The anti-colonial struggles in West Africa were Africa was chopped into states artificially
Colonisation & decolonisation decolonization process in the Malay Peninsula? led by the new elite of Western -educated created by accident of European competition. 3.25 1.30%
(150) Africans. Examine. Analyse
Redrawal of national boundaries 0 0.00%
What policy instruments were deployed to
Communism, capitalism, socialism, etc contain the great economic depression?
1 0.40%

Indian society 75 80 90 75 100 40 75 100 50 40 72.5 29%

1) Explore and evaluate the impact of ‘Work From Home’ 1) Examine the uniqueness of tribal knowledge
on family relationships. (150)
2) How is the growth of Tier 2 cities related to the rise of a and cultural systems. (150)
Features, diversity & its challenges, unity, new middle class with an emphasis on the culture of
consumption? (150)
pluralism, inequality & exclusion, family
3) Given the diversities among the tribal communities in
system India, in which specific contexts should they be
considered as a single category? (150)
4) Analyze the salience of ‘sect’ in Indian society vis-a-vis
caste, region and religion. (250)
Role of women & women org
Population and associated issues
Poverty and developmental issues
Urbanisation, problems and remedies
Social empowerment
Communalism
Regionalism
Are tolerance, assimilation and pluralism the key
Secularism elements in the making of an Indian form of secularism?
Justify your answer. (250)
Elucidate the relationship between globalization and new
technology in a world of scarce resources, with special
Effects of globalisation on Indian society
reference to India. (250)
Geography 100
Mention the significance of straits and isthmus in
international trade. (250)
Geomorphology
What are the forces that influence ocean currents?
Oceanography Describe their role in fishing industry of the world. (250)
Troposphere is a very significant atmospheric layer that
determines weather processes. How? (250)
Climatology
Soil geography
1) Discuss the natural resource potentials of ‘Deccan
trap’. (150)
2) Describing the distribution of rubber producing
countries, indicate the major environmental issues faced
Distribution of key natural resources by them. (250)
3) Examine the potential of wind energy in India and
explain the reasons for their limited spatial spread. (150)
Factors responsible for location of
industries
Discuss the meaning of colour-coded weather warnings
for cyclone prone areas given by India Meteorological
department. (150)
Earthquakes, volcano, tsunami, cyclone
Changes in critical geographical features
(Ice, deserts, flora, fauna, etc) and their
effects
Describe the characteristics and types of primary rocks.
(150)
Geographical and geophysical features
and their location
system when compared with mainstream knowledge
2) How does Indian society maintain continuity in
traditional social values? Enumerate the changes
taking place in it. (250)
Discuss the main objectives of Population Education
and point out the measures to achieve them in India
in detail. (250)
Examine the role of ‘Gig Economy’ in the process of
empowerment of women in India. (150)
What are the main socio-economic implications
arising out of the development of IT industries in
major cities of India? (250)
What is Cryptocurrency? How does it affect global
society? Has it been affecting Indian society also?
(250)
95
Why is India considered as a sub-continent?
Elaborate your answer. (150)
1) Discuss the multi-dimensional implications of
uneven distribution of mineral oil in the world. (250)
1) Despite India being one of the countries of the
Gondwanaland, its mining industry contributes much
less to its Gross Domestic Product(GDP) in
percentage. Discuss. (150)
Mention the global occurrence of volcanic eruptions
in 2021 and their impact on regional environment.
(150)
1) Differentiate the causes of landslides in the
Himalayan region and Western Ghats. (150)
2) what are the environmental implications of the
reclamation of the water bodies into urban land use? a far- reaching impact on the water resources of
Explain with examples. (150)
3) How do the melting of the Arctic ice and glaciers
of the Antarctic differently affect the weather patterns
and human activities on the Earth? Explain. (250)
Briefly mention the alignment of major mountain
ranges of the world and explain their impact on local
weather conditions, with examples. (250)
1) Has caste lost its relevance in understanding the
multi- cultural Indian Society? Elaborate your
answer with illustrations. (150)
2) Customs and traditions suppress reason leading
to obscurantism. Do you agree? (250)
COVID-19 pandemic accelerated class inequalities
and poverty in India. Comment. (150)
Account for the huge flooding of million cities in
India including the smart ones like Hyderabad and
Pune. Suggest lasting remedial measures. (250)
How have digital initiatives in India contributed to
the functioning of the education system in the
country? Elaborate your answer. (250)
Do you agree that regionalism in India appears to
be a consequence of rising cultural assertiveness?
Argue. (150)
Is diversity and pluralism in India under threat due
to globalisation? Justify your answer. (250)
85
1) The interlinking of rivers can provide viable
solutions to the multi-dimensional inter-related
problems of droughts, floods and interrupted
navigation. Critically examine. (250)
2) India has immense potential of solar energy
though there are regional variations in its
developments. Elaborate. (250)
3) Examine the status of forest resources of India
and its resultant impact on climate change. (250)
Account for the present location of iron and steel
industries away from the source of raw material, by
giving examples. (150)
1) The process of desertification does not have
climate boundaries. Justify with examples (150)
2) How will the melting of Himalayan glaciers have
India? (150)
Discuss the geophysical characteristics of Circum-
Pacific Zone. (150)
1) What makes the Indian society unique in
sustaining its culture? Discuss. (150)
2) Do we have cultural pockets of small India all
over the nation? Elaborate with examples. (250)
What are the continued challenges for women in
India against time and space? (250)
Empowering women is the key to control
population growth.” Discuss. (150)
What are the challenges to our cultural practices in How the Indian concept of secularism different
the name of secularism? (150)
Are we losing our local identity for the global
identity? Discuss. (250)
100
How do ocean currents and water masses differ in
their impacts on marine life and coastal
environment? Give suitable examples. (250)
How can the mountain ecosystem be restored from 1) Why is India taking keen interest in the Arctic “Inspite of adverse environmental impact, coal
the negative impact of development initiatives and region? (150)
tourism? (250)
1) Can the strategy of regional resource-based
manufacturing help in promoting employment in
India? (150)
2) Discuss the factors for localisation of agro-based (250)
food processing industries of North-West India.
(150)
1) Assess the impact of global warming on the
coral life system with examples. (150)
2) Discuss the causes of depletion of mangroves
and explain their importance in maintaining coastal
ecology. (150)
1) What is water stress? How and why does it differ 1) Defining blue revolution, explain the
regionally in India? (250)
2) How is efficient and affordable urban mass
transport key to the rapid economic development in
India? (250)
“Caste system is assuming new identities and
associational forms. Hence, caste system
cannot be eradicated in India.” Comment. (150) rather than the States? Give reasons with
‘Women’s movement in India has not
addressed the issues of women of lower social
strata.’ Substantiate your view. (250)
1) ‘Despite implementation of various
programmes for eradication of poverty by the
government in India, poverty is still existing’.
Explain by giving reasons. (150)
2) Mention core strategies for the
transformation of aspirational districts in India
and explain the nature of convergence,
collaboration and competition for its success.
(250)
‘Communalism arises either due to power
struggle or relative deprivation.’ Argue by giving and communalism giving one example of how
suitable illustrations. (250)
Why is Indian Regional Navigational Satellite
System (IRNSS) needed? How does it help in
navigation? (150)
from the western model of secularism? Discuss.
(150)
‘Globalisation is generally said to promote
cultural homogenisation but due to this cultural
specificities appear to be strengthened in the
Indian society.’ Elucidate. (250)
75
Define mantle plume and explain its role in plate How does the Juno Mission of NASA help to
tectonics. (150)
mining is still inevitable for development”.
2) “The ideal solution of depleting ground water Discuss (150)
resources in India is water harvesting system.”
How can it be made effective in urban areas?
(250)
1) What is the significance of Industrial
Corridors in India? Identifying industrial
corridors, explain their main characteristics.
What are the consequences of spreading of
‘Dead Zones’ on marine ecosystem? (150)
problems and strategies for pisciculture
development in India. (250)
1) In the context of the diversity of India, can it Why are the tribals in India referred to as ‘the 1) Describe any four cultural elements of
be said that the regions form cultural units
examples for your view point. (150)
2) The spirit of tolerance and love is not only an
interesting feature of Indian society from very
early times, but it is also playing an important
part at the present. Elaborate. (250)
Distinguish between religiousness/religiosity
the former has got transformed into the latter in
independent India. (250)
115
understand the origin and evolution of the
Earth? (150)
Account for variations in oceanic salinity and
discuss its multi-dimensional effects. (250)
1) How does the cryosphere affect global
climate? (150)
2) What characteristics can be assigned to
monsoon climate that succeeds in feeding more
than 50 percent of the world population residing
in Monsoon Asia? (250)
Petroleum refineries are not necessarily located
nearer to crude oil producing areas, particularly
in many of the developing countries. Explain its
implications. (250)
1) In what way can floods be converted into a
sustainable source of irrigation and all-weather
inland navigation in India? (250)
1) Mention the advantages of the cultivation of 1) South China Sea has assumed great
pulses because of which the year 2016 was
declared as the International Year of Pulses by Comment.
United Nations. (150)
2) “The growth of cities as I.T. hubs has opened inland water transport in India.
up new avenues of employment, but has also
created new problems”. Substantiate this
statement with examples (250)
Scheduled Tribes’? Indicate the major diversity in India and rate their relative
provisions enshrined in the Constitution of India significance in building a national identity.
for their upliftment. 2) Debate the issue whether and how
contemporary movements for assertion of Dalit
identity work towards annihilation of caste.
“An essential condition to eradicate poverty is to
liberate the poor from the process of
deprivation.” Substantiate this statement with
suitable examples.
1) With a brief background of quality of urban
life in India, introduce the objectives and
strategy of the ‘Smart City Programme.”
2) Major cities of India are becoming vulnerable compared to the other two. Why is this so?
to flood conditions. Discuss.
What is the basis of regionalism? Is it that
unequal distribution of benefits of development
on regional basis eventually promotes
regionalism? Substantiate your answer.
To what extent globalisation has influenced the
core of cultural diversity in India? Explain.
87.5
Discuss the concept of air mass and explain its
role in macro-climatic changes.
The effective management of land and water
resources will drastically reduce the human
miseries. Explain.
1) In what way micro-watershed development
projects help in water conservation in drought-
prone and semi-arid regions of India?
1) “The Himalayas are highly prone to
landslides.”Discuss the causes and suggest
suitable measures of mitigation.
2) Present an account of the Indus Water
Treaty and examine its ecological, economic
and political implications in the context of
changing bilateral relations.
geopolitical significance in the present context.
2) Enumerate the problems and prospects of
How do you explain the statistics that show that 1) How does patriarchy impact the position of a
the sex ratio in Tribes in India is more
favourable to women than the sex ratio among 2) Why do some of the most prosperous
Scheduled Castes?
1) Critically examine whether growing
population is the cause of poverty OR poverty is
the mains cause of population increase in India.
2) Discuss the changes in the trends of labour
migration within and outside India in the last
four decades.
1) Mumbai, Delhi and Kolkata are the three
Mega cities of the country but the air pollution is
much more serious problem in Delhi as
2) Smart cities in India cannot sustain without
smart villages. Discuss this statement in the
backdrop of rural urban integration.
Discuss the positive and negative effects of
globalization on women in India?
62.5
Explain the factors responsible for the origin of
ocean currents. How do they influence regional
climates, fishing and navigation?
How far do you agree that the behaviour of the
Indian monsoon has been changing due to
humanizing landscape? Discuss.
1) India is well endowed with fresh water
resources. Critically examine why it still suffers
from water scarcity.
2) What are the economic significance of
discovery of oil in Arctic Sea and its possible
environmental consequences?
The states of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal
Pradesh and Uttarakhand are reaching the
limits of ecological carrying capacity due to
tourism. Critically evaluate.
The life cycle of a joint family depends on
economic factors rather than social values.
Discuss.
20.25 8.10%
Male membership needs to be encouraged in
middle class working woman in India? order to make women’s organization free from
gender bias. Comment.
regions of India have an adverse sex ratio for
8.25 3.30%
women? Give your arguments.
3) Discuss the various economic and socio-
cultural forces that are driving increasing
feminization of agriculture in India.
4 1.60%
4.75 1.90%
Discussion the various social problems which
originated out of the speedy process of
urbanization in India.
7.5 3.00%
3.5 1.40%
3 1.20%
Growing feeling of regionalism is an important
factor in the generation of demand for a
5.75 2.30%
separate state. Discuss.
How do the Indian debates on secularism differ
from the debates in the West? 4.5 1.80%
Critically examine the effects of globalization on
the aged population in India.
11 4.40%
100 110 92.9 37%
Explain the formation of thousands of islands in 1) What do you understand by the theory of
Indonesian and Philippines archipelagos. continental drift? Discuss the prominent
evidences in its support. 7.5 3.00%
2) Bring out the causes for the formation of heat
islands in the urban habitat of the world.
5.75 2.30%
Most of the unusual climatic happenings are What do you understand by the phenomenon of
explained as an outcome of the El-Nino effect. temperature inversion in meteorology? How
Do you agree? does it affect the weather and the habitants of
the place?
8.5 3.40%
0 0.00%
1) Critically evaluate the various resources of It is said the India has substantial reserves of
the oceans which can be harnessed to meet the shale oil and gas, which can feed the needs of
resource crisis in the world. country for quarter century. However, tapping of
2) How does India see its place in the economic the resources doesn’t appear to be high on the
space of rising natural resource rich Africa? agenda. Discuss critically the availability and 22.5 9.00%
3) Why did the Green Revolution in India issues involved.
virtually by-pass the eastern region despite
fertile soil and good availability of water?
Account for the change in the spatial pattern of 1) Do you agree that there is a growing trend of
the Iron and Steel industry in the world. opening new sugar mills in the Southern states
of India ? Discuss with justification.
2) Analyse the factors for highly decentralized
cotton textile industry in India
9.75 3.90%
3) With growing scarcity of fossil fuels, the
atomic energy is gaining more and more
significance in India. Discuss the availability of
raw material required for the generation of
atomic energy in India and in the world.
1) Why are the world’s fold mountain systems The recent cyclone on the east coast of India
located along the margins of continents? Bring was called “Phailin”. How are the tropical
out the association between the global cyclones named across the world? Elaborate.
distribution of fold mountains and the
5 2.00%
earthquakes and volcanoes.
2) Tropical cyclones are largely confined to
South China Sea, Bay of Bengal and Gulf of
Mexico. Why?
Bring out the relationship between the shrinking Bringout the causes for more frequent
Himalayan glaciers and the symptoms of landslides in the Himalayas than in Western
climate change in the Indian sub-continent. Ghats.
13 5.20%
1) Whereas the British planters had developed 1) Major hot deserts in northern hemisphere are
tea gardens all along the Shivaliks and Lesser located between 20-30 degree north and on the
Himalayas from Assam to Himachal Pradesh, in western side of the continents. Why?
effect they did not succeed beyond the 2) There is no formation of deltas by rivers of
21.5 8.60%
Darjeeling area. Explain. the Western Ghat. Why?
 Syllabus
Indian Constitution
Historical Underpinning & Evolution
Features
Amendments
Significant Provisions
Basic Structure
Functions & Responsibilities of the Union
and the States
Issues & Challenges Pertaining to the
Federal Structure
Devolution of Powers & Finances to Local
Levels & Challenges Therein
Separation of Powers Between Various
Organs
Dispute Redressal Mechanisms and
Institutions
Comparison of the Indian Constitutional
Scheme With That of Other Countries
Parliament & State Legislatures
Structure, Organization & Functioning of
the Executive and the Judiciary
Ministries and Departments of the
Government
Pressure Groups & Formal/informal
Associations & Their Role in Polity
Salient Features of Representation of
People's Act
Appointment to Various Constitutional
Posts
Statutory, Regulatory & Quasi-Judicial
Bodies
Governance
Government Policies & Interventions for
Development
Development Processes & the
Development Industry (NGO, SHG, Trust,
Co-op, etc)
Important Aspects of Governance,
Transparency & Accountability (e-
governance, citizen charter, RTI, Social
audit, whistleblower, lokpal, etc)
Role of civil services in democracy
Social Justice
Welfare Schemes for Vulnerable Sections
Issues Relating to Development &
Management of Social Sector/Services
(Health, education and Human resources)
(2023) Predictions 2022
125
1) Right of movement and residence throughout
the territory of India are freely available to Indian
citizens, but these rights are not absolute.
Comment (150)
“While the national political parties in India
favour centralisation, the regional parties are in
favour of state autonomy.” Comment. (250)
To what extent in your opinion has the
decentralisation of power in India changed the
governance landscape at the grassroots? (150)
1) Critically examine the procedures through
which the presidents of India and France are
elected. (250)
1) The most significant achievement of modern
law in India is the constitutionalization of
environmental problems by the Supreme Court.
Discuss this statement with the help of relevant
case laws. (150)
2) Discuss the role of the Vice President of India
as the chairman of Rajya Sabha. (150)
3) Discuss the essential conditions for the
exercise of the legislative powers by the
Governor. Discuss the legality of re-
promulgation of ordinances by the Governor
without placing them before the Legislature.
(250)
Discuss the procedures to decide the disputes
arising out of the election of a Member of the
Parliament or a State Legislature under the
Representation of People Act 1951. What are
the grounds on which the election of any
returned candidate may be declared void? What
remedy is available to the aggrieved party
against the decision? Refer to the case laws
(250)
1) Discuss the role of the National Commission
for Backward Classes in the wake of its
transformation from a statutory body to a
constitutional body. (150)
2) Discuss the role of the Election Commission
of India in light of the evolution of the Model
Code of Conduct. (250)
35
The Gati-Shakti Yojana needs meticulous
coordination between the government and the
private sector to achieve the goal of
connectivity. Discuss. (150)
Do you agree with the view that increasing 1) Can the vicious cycle of gender inequality,
dependence on donor agencies for development poverty and malnutrition be broken through
reduces the importance of community microfinancing of women SHGs? Explain with
participation in the development process? examples. (150)
Justify your answer. (250) 2) Can Civil Society and Non-Governmental
Organizations present an alternative model of
public service delivery to benefit the common
citizen. Discuss the challenges of this
alternative model. (250)
1) Reforming the government delivery system
through the Direct Benefit Transfer Scheme is a
progressive step, but it has limitations too.
Comment. (150)
40
Besides the welfare schemes, India needs deft
management of inflation and unemployment to
serve the poor and the underprivileged sections
of society. Discuss. (250)
1) The rights of persons with disabilities Act,
2016 remains only a legal document without
intense sensitisation of Government
functionaries and citizens regarding disability.
Comment. (150)
2) The Right of Children to Free and
Compulsory Education Act, 2009 remains
inadequate in promoting an incentive-based
system for children’s education without
generating awareness about the importance of
schooling. Analyse. (250)
2021
125
Constitutional Morality’ is rooted in the
Constitution itself and is founded on its essential
facets. Explain the doctrine of ‘Constitutional
Morality’ with the help of relevant judicial
decisions. (150)
The jurisdiction of the Central Bureau of
Investigation(CBI) regarding lodging an FIR and competition and confrontation have shaped the
conducting probe within a particular state is
being questioned by various States. However,
the power of States to withhold consent to the
CBI is not absolute. Explain with special
reference to the federal character of India. (250) nation. Elucidate in the perspective of the
Analyze the distinguishing features of the notion The judicial systems in India and UK seem to
of Equality in the Constitutions of the USA and
India. (250)
1) Discuss the desirability of greater
representation to women in the higher judiciary think the practice should be adopted to impart
to ensure diversity, equity and inclusiveness.
(150)
2) To what extent, in your view, the Parliament
is able to ensure accountability of the executive India. (150)
in India? (150) 3) Explain
the constitutional provisions under which
Legislative Councils are established. Review
the working and current status of Legislative
Councils with suitable illustrations. (250)
Do Department -related Parliamentary Standing
Committees keep the administration on its toes
and inspire reverence for parliamentary control?
Evaluate the working of such committees with
suitable examples. (250)
“Pressure groups play a vital role in influencing
public policy making in India.” Explain how the
business associations contribute to public
policies. (150)
How have the recommendations of the 14th
Finance Commission of India enabled the states
to improve their fiscal position? (150)
Though the Human Rights Commissions have
contributed immensely to the protection of
human rights in India, yet they have failed to
assert themselves against the mighty and
powerful. Analyzing their structural and practical 2) Which steps are required for
limitations, suggest remedial measures. (250)
50
Besides being a moral imperative of Welfare
State, primary health structure is a necessary
pre-condition for sustainable development.”
Analyze. (150)
Has digital illiteracy, particularly in rural areas,
couple with lack of Information and
Communication Technology(ICT) accessibility
hindered socio-economic development?
Examine with justification. (250)
25
1) ‘Earn while you learn’ scheme needs to be
strengthened to make vocational education and
skill training meaningful.” Comment. (150)
2) Though women in post-Independent India
have excelled in various fields, the social
attitude towards women and feminist movement
has been patriarchal.” Apart from women
education and women empowerment schemes,
what interventions can help change this milieu?
(250)
2020
125
1) How far do you think cooperation,
nature of federation in India? Cite some recent
examples to validate your answer (150)
2) Indian constitution exhibits centralising
tendencies to maintain unity and integrity of the
Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897; The Disaster
Management Act, 2005 and recently passed
Farm Acts. (250)
The strength sustenance of local institutions in “The reservation of seats for women in the
India has shifted from their formative phase of
‘Functions, Functionaries and Funs’ to the
contemporary stage of ‘Functionality’. Highlight Indian Political Process.” Comment. (250)
the critical challenges faced by local institutions
in terms of their functionality in recent times.
(250)
Rajya Sabha has been transformed from a
‘useless stepney tyre’ to the most useful
supporting organ in past few decades. Highlight powers rather it is based on the principle of
the factors as well as the areas in which this ‘checks and balance’? Explain. (150)
transformation could be visible. (250)
Judicial Legislation is antithetical to the doctrine “The Central Administration Tribunal which was
of separation of powers as envisaged in the
Indian Constitution. In this context justify the
filing of large number of public interest petitions employees, nowadays is exercising its powers
praying for issuing guidelines to executive
authorities. (250)
What can France learn from the Indian
be converging as well as diverging in the recent Constitution’s approach to secularism? (150)
times. Highlight the key points of convergence
and divergence between the two nations in
terms of their judicial practices (150)
“Once a speaker, Always a speaker’! Do you
objectivity to the office of the Speaker of Lok
Sabha? What could be its implications for the
robust functioning of parliamentary business in
“There is a need for simplification of procedure
for disqualification of persons found guilty of
corrupt practices under the Representation of
peoples Act” Comment (150)
1) “Recent amendments to the Right to
information Act will have profound impact on the
autonomy and independence of the Information
Commission”. Discuss (150)
constitutionalization of a commission? Do you
think imparting constitutionality to the National
Commission for Women would ensure greater
gender justice and empowerment in India? Give
reasons. (250)
60
1) In order to enhance the prospects of social
development, sound and adequate health care
policies are needed particularly in the fields of
geriatric and maternal health care. Discuss.
(150)
2) National Education Policy 2020 is in
conformity with the Sustainable Development
Goal-4 (2030). It intends to restructure and
reorient education system in India. Critically
examine the statement. (250)
“Micro-Finance as an anti-poverty vaccine, is
aimed at asset creation and income security of organizations to influence the policy- makers in
the rural poor in India”. Evaluate the role of Self- India and how effective are these methods?
Help Groups in achieving the twin objectives
along with empowering women in rural India.
(250)
“The emergence of Fourth Industrial Revolution Implementation of information and
(Digital Revolution) has initiated e-Governance Communication Technology (ICT) based
as an integral part of government”. Discuss
(150)
“Institutional quality is a crucial driver of
economic performance”. In this context suggest
reforms in Civil Service for strengthening
democracy. (150)
15
2019
115
“Parliament’s power to amend the Constitution
is a limited power and it cannot be enlarged into
absolute power.” In the light of this statement
explain whether Parliament under Article 368 of
the Constitution can destroy the Basic Structure
of the Constitution by expanding its amending
power? (250)
Assess the importance of the Panchayat system “The local self government system in India has
institutions of local self- government has had a in India as a part of local government. Apart
limited impact on the patriarchal character of the from government grants, what sources the
Panchayats can look out for financing
developmental projects? (250)
1) Do you think that constitution of India does
not accept principle of strict separation of
2) From the resolution of contentious issues
regarding distribution of legislative powers by
the courts, ‘Principle of Federal Supremacy’ and
‘Harmonious Construction’ have emerged.
Explain. (150)
established for redressal of grievances and
complaints by or against central government
as an independent judicial authority.” Explain.
(150)
Individual Parliamentarian’s role as the national
lawmaker is on a decline, which in turn, has
adversely impacted the quality of debates and
their outcome. Discuss. (250)
On what grounds a people’s representative can
be disqualified under the Representation of
People Act, 1951? Also mention the remedies
available to such person against his
disqualification. (250)
“The Attorney-General is the chief legal adviser
and lawyer of the Government of India.”
Discuss. (250)
50
‘In the context of neo-liberal paradigm of
development planning, multi-level planning is
expected to make operations cost effective and
remove many implementation blockages.’-
Discuss. (250)
1) What are the methods used by the Farmers
(150)
2) The need for cooperation among various
service sector has been an inherent component
of development discourse. Partnership bridges
bring the gap among the sectors. It also sets in
motion a culture of ‘Collaboration’ and ‘team
spirit’. In the light of statements above examine
India’s Development process. (250)
Projects / Programmes usually suffers in terms
of certain vital factors. Identify these factors,
and suggest measures for their effective
implementation. (150)
35
Performance of welfare schemes that are
implemented for vulnerable sections is not so
effective due to absence of their awareness and
active involvement at all stages of policy
process – Discuss. (250)
Despite Consistent experience of High growth,
India still goes with the lowest indicators of
human development. Examine the issues that
make balanced and inclusive development
elusive. (150)
2018
140
not proved to be effective instrument of
governance”. Critically examine the statement
and give your views to improve the situation. (!
50)
How far do you agree with the view that
tribunals curtail the jurisdiction of ordinary
courts? In view of the above, discuss the
constitutional validity and competency of the
tribunals in India. (250)
Indian and USA are two large democracies.
Examine the basic tenets on which the two
political systems are based. (250)
1) Under what circumstances can the Financial
Emergency be proclaimed by the President of
India? What consequences follow when such a
declaration remains in force? (150)
3) Whether the Supreme Court Judgement (July
2018) can settle the political tussle between the
Lt. Governor and elected government of Delhi?
Examine. (250)
Why do you think the committees are
considered to be useful for parliamentary work? Discuss the role of Public Accounts Committee
Discuss, in this context, the role of the in establishing accountability of the government
Estimates Committee. (150) to the people. (150)
1) In the light of recent controversy regarding
the use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVM),
what are the challenges before the Election
Commission of India to ensure the
trustworthiness of elections in India? (150)
2) Whether National Commission for Scheduled (250)
Castes (NCSC) can enforce the implementation
of constitutional reservation for the Scheduled
Castes in the religious minority institutions?
Examine. (150)
3) “The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG)
has a very vital role to play.” Explain how this is
reflected in the method and terms of his
appointment as well as the range of powers he
can exercise. (150)
4) How is the Finance Commission of India
constituted? What do you know about the terms
of reference of the recently constituted Finance
Commission? Discuss. (250)
Multiplicity of various commissions for the
vulnerable sections of the society leads to
problems of overlapping jurisdiction and
duplication of functions. Is it better to merge all
commissions into an umbrella Human Rights
Commission? Argue your case. (250)
35
“Policy contradictions among various competing ‘To ensure effective implementation of policies
sectors and stakeholders have resulted in addressing water, sanitation and hygiene
inadequate ‘protection and prevention of needs, the identification of beneficiary segments governance system are inter-dependent/”
degradation to environment.” Comment with is to be synchronized with the anticipated
relevant illustrations. (150) outcomes’ Examine the statement in the context (250)
of the WASH scheme. (150)
1) E-governance in not only about utilization of
the power of new technology, but also much
about critical importance of the ‘use value’ of
information. Explain. (150)
2) The Citizen’s Charter is an ideal instrument of
organisational transparency and accountability,
but it has its own limitations. Identify the
limitations and suggest measures for greater
effectiveness of the Citizen’s Charters. (250)
25
Appropriate local community level healthcare
intervention is a prerequisite to achieve ‘Health
for All’ in India. Explain. (150)
2017 2016
115 80
Did the Government of India Act, 1935 lay down
a federal constitution? Discuss. (150)
What was held in the Coelho case? In this
context, can you say that judicial review is of
key importance amongst the basic features of
the Constitution? (150)
Explain the salient features of the constitution Discuss the essentials of the 69th Constitutional
(One Hundred and First Amendment) Act, 2016. Amendment Act and anomalies, if any, that
Do you think it is efficacious enough ‘to remove have led to recent reported conflicts between
cascading effect of taxes and provide for the elected representatives and the institution of
common national market for goods and the Lieutenant Governor in the administration of
services’? (250) Delhi. Do you think that this will give rise to a
new trend in the functioning of the Indian federal
politics? (150)
Examine the scope of Fundamental Rights in 1) To what extent is Article 370 of the Indian
the light of the latest judgement of the Supreme Constitution, bearing marginal note “temporary
Court on Right to Privacy. (250) provision with respect to the State of Jammu
and Kashmir”, temporary? Discuss the future
prospects of this provision in the context of
Indian polity. (150)
2) Discuss each adjective attached to the word
‘Republic’ in the ‘Preamble’. Are they
defendable in the present circumstances? (150)
1) Critically examine the Supreme Court’s “The Indian party system is passing through a
judgement on ‘National Judicial Appointments phase of transition which looks to be full of
Commission Act, 2014’ with reference to contradictions and paradoxes.” Discuss. (150)
appointment of judges of higher judiciary in
India. (150)
2) ‘Simultaneous election to the Lok Sabha and
the State Assemblies will limit the amount of
time and money spent in electioneering but it
will reduce the government’s accountability to
the people’ Discuss. (150)
3) The Indian Constitution has provisions for
holding joint session of the two houses of the
Parliament. Enumerate the occasions when this
would normally happen and also the occasions
when it cannot, with reasons thereof. (250)
To enhance the quality of democracy in India Exercise of CAG’s powers in relation to the
the Election Commission of India has proposed accounts of the Union and the States is derived
electoral reforms in 2016. What are the from Article 149 of the Indian Constitution.
suggested reforms and how far are they Discuss whether audit of the Government’s
significant to make democracy successful? policy implementation could amount to
overstepping its own (CAG) jurisdiction. (150)
Is the National Commission for Women able to What is quasi judicial body? Explain with the
strategize and tackle the problems that women help of concrete examples. (150)
face at both public and private spheres? Give
reasons in support of your answer. (250)
50 70
1) “Effectiveness of the government system at
various levels and people’s participation in the
Discuss their relationship in the context of India.
2) Has the Indian governmental system
responded adequately to the demands of
Liberalization, Privatization and Globalization
started in 1991? What can the government do to
be responsive to this important change? (250)
3) “Traditional bureaucratic structure and culture
have hampered the process of socio-economic
development in India.” Comment. (250)
1) How do pressure groups influence Indian “In the Indian governance system, the role of
political process? Do you agree with this view non-state actors has been only marginal.”
that informal pressure groups have emerged as Critically examine this statement. (150)
powerful than formal pressure groups in recent
years? (150)
2) ‘The emergence of Self Help Groups(SHGs)
in contemporary times points to the slow but
steady withdrawal of the state from
developmental activities’. Examine the role of
the SHGs in developmental activities and the
measures taken by the Government of India to
promote the SHGs. (250)
In the integrity index of Transparency
International, India stands very low. Discuss
briefly the legal, political, social and cultural
factors that have caused the decline of public
morality in India. (250)
Initially Civil Services in India were designed to
achieve the goals of neutrality and
effectiveness, which seems to be lacking in the
present context. Do you agree with the view that
drastic reforms are required in Civil Services.
Comment (250)
35 40
Examine the main provisions of the National
Child Policy and throw light on the status of its
implementation. (250)
Does the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 1) Professor Amartya Sen has advocated
2016 ensure effective mechanism for important reforms in the realms of primary
empowerment and inclusion of the intended education and primary health care. What are
beneficiaries in the society? Discuss (150) your suggestions to improve their status and
performance? (150)
2) “Demographic Dividend in India will remain
only theoretical unless our manpower becomes
more educated, aware, skilled and creative.”
What measures have been taken by the
government to enhance the capacity of our
population to be more productive and
employable? (250)
2015
100
1) Discuss the possible factors that inhibit India
from enacting for its citizen a uniform civil code
as provided for in the Directive Principles of
State Policy.
2) Does the right to clean environment entail
legal regulation on burning crackers during
Diwali? Discus in the light of Article 21 of Indian
Constitution and judgements of the apex in this
regard.
The concept of cooperative federalism has been Though the federal principle is dominant in our
increasingly emphasised in recent years.
Highlight the drawbacks in the existing structure basic features, but it is equally true that
and extent to which cooperative federalism
would answer the shortcomings.
In the absence of well – educated and organised
local level government system, Panchayats and
Samitis have remained mainly political
institutions and not effective instrument of
governance. Critically Discuss.
Resorting to ordinances has always raised
concern on violation of the spirit of separation of
power doctrine. While noting the rationales
justifying the power to promulgate, analyse
whether the decision of the Supreme Court on
the issue have further facilitated to resorting to
this power. Should the power to promulgate the
ordinances be repealed?
1) What are the major changes brought in the
Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1966 through
the recent ordinance promulgated by the
President? How far will it improve India’s dispute large number of un-codified and un-enumerated policy issues are not usually witnessed. How far
resolution mechanism? Discuss.
1) Khap panchayats have been in the news for
functioning as extra – constitutional authorities,
often delivering pronouncements amounting to
human right violations. Discuss critically the
actions taken by the legislative, executive and
judiciary to set the things right in this regard.
2) For achieving the desired objectives,it is
necessary to ensure that the regulatory
institutions remain independent and
autonomous. Discuss in the light of experiences
in recent past.
62.5
1) Examine critically the recent changes in the
rule governing foreign funding of NGOs under
the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act
(FCRA), 1976.
2) The Self Help Group (SHG) Bank Linkage
Program (SBLP), which is India’s own
innovation , has proved to be one of the most
effective poverty alleviation and women
empowerment programme. Elucidate.
3) How can be the role of NGOs be
strengthened in India for development works
relating to protection of the Environment?
Discuss throwing light on the major constraints.
1) In the light of Satyam Scandal (2009), discuss
the changes brought in the corporate
governance to ensure transparency and
accountability.
2) If amendment bill to the Whistleblowers
Protection Act 2011 tabled in the Parliament is
passed, there maybe no on left to protect.
Critically Evaluate.
37.5
1) The quality of higher education in India
requires major improvement to make it
internationally competitive. Do you think that the
entry of foreign educational institutions would
help improve the quality of technical and higher
education in the country. Discuss.
2) Public health system has limitation in
providing universal health coverage. Do you
think that private sector can help in bridging the
gap? What other viable alternatives do you
suggest?
2014 2013 Average Percentage
87.5 90 110.25 44.10%
1 0.40%
Starting from inventing the ‘basic structure’
doctrine, the judiciary has played a highly
proactive role in ensuring that India develops
3.25 1.30%
into a thriving democracy. In light of the
statement, evaluate the role played by judicial
activism in achieving the ideals of democracy.
2.5 1.00%
What do understand by the concept “freedom of 1) Discuss Section 66A of IT Act, with reference
speech and expression”? Does it cover hate to its alleged violation of Article 19 of the
speech also? Why do the films in India stand on Constitution.
a slightly different plane from other forms of 2) Recent directives from Ministry of Petroleum
expression? Discuss. and Natural Gas are perceived by the ‘Nagas’ 9.25 3.70%
as a threat to override the exceptional status
enjoyed by the State. Discuss in light of Article
371A of the Indian Constitution.
1.5 0.60%
Many State Governments further bifurcate
geographical administrative areas like Districts
and Talukas for better governance. In light of
1 0.40%
the above, can it also be justified that more
number of smaller States would bring in
effective governance at State level? Discuss.
Constitutional mechanisms to resolve the inter-
Constitution and that priniciple is one of its state water disputes have failed to address and
solve the problems. Is the failure due to
federalism under the Indian Constitution leans structural or process inadequacy or both?
in favour of a strong Centre, a feature that Discuss.
8 3.20%
militates against the concept of strong
federalism.
7.75 3.10%
The Supreme Court of India keeps a check on
arbitrary power of the Parliament in amending
the Constitution. Discuss critically.
5.75 2.30%
‘A national Lokpal, however strong it may be,
cannot resolve the problems of immorality in
public affairs’. Discuss.
5 2.00%
7.5 3.00%
1) The ‘Powers, Privileges and Immunities of The role of individual MPs (Members of
Parliament and its Members’ as envisaged in Parliament) has diminished over the years and
Article 105 of the Constitution leave room for a as a result healthy constructive debates on
privileges to continue. Assess the reasons for can this be attributed to the anti-defection law,
the absence of legal codification of the which was legislated but with a different
‘parliamentary privileges’. How can this problem intention?
be addressed?
2) Instances of President’s delay in commuting
24.5 9.80%
death sentences has come under public debate
as denial of justice. Should there be a time
specified for the President to accept/rejectsuch
petitions? Analyse
3) The size of the cabinet should be as big as
governmental work justifies and as big as the
Prime Minister can manage as a team. How far
is the efficacy of a government then inversely
related to the size of the cabinet? Discuss.
1.5 0.60%
1 0.40%
4 1.60%
Discuss the recommendations of the 13th
Finance Commission which have been a
departure from the previous commissions for
strengthening the local government finances.
13 5.20%
National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in The product diversification of financial
India can be most effective when its tasks are institutions and insurance companies, resulting
adequately supported by other mechanisms in overlapping of products and services
that ensure the accountability of a government. strengthens the case for the merger of the two
In light of above observation assess the role of regulatory agencies, namely SEBI and IRDA.
NHRC as an effective complement to the Justify. 12.75 5.10%
judiciary and other institutions in promoting and
protecting human rights standards.
50 50 51.25 20.50%
1) Though 100 percent FDI is already allowed The basis of providing urban amenities in rural
in non-news media like a trade publication and areas (PURA) is rooted in establishing
general entertainment channel, the government connectivity. Comment.
is mulling over the proposal for increased FDI in
news media for quite some time. What
difference would an increase in FDI make?
Critically evaluate the pros and cons.
2) The setting up of a Rail Tariff Authority to
16 6.40%
regulate fares will subject the cash strapped
Indian Railways to demand subsidy for
obligation to operate non-profitable routes and
services. Taking into account the experience in
the power sector, discuss if the proposed
reform is expected to benefit the consumers,
the Indian Railways or the private container
operators.
The penetration of Self Help Groups (SHGs) in 1) Pressure group politics is sometimes seen as
rural areas in promoting participation in the informal face of politics. With regards to the
development programmes is facing socio- above, assess the structure and functioning of
cultural hurdles. Examine. pressure groups in India.
2) The legitimacy and accountability of Self
Help Groups (SHGs) and their patrons, the
micro-finance outfits, need systematic 18.5 7.40%
assessment and scrutiny for the sustained
success of the concept. Discuss.
1) Electronic cash transfer system for the
welfare schemes is an ambitious project to
minimize corruption, eliminate wastage and
facilitate reforms. Comment.
2) Though Citizen’s charters have been 13 5.20%
formulated by many public service delivery
organizations, there is no corresponding
improvement in the level of citizens’ satisfaction
and quality of services being provided. Analyse.
Has the Cadre based Civil Services
Organization been the cause of slow in India?
Critically examine.
3.75 1.50%
50 30 33.25 13.30%
Do government’s schemes for up-lifting The concept of Mid-Day Meal (MDM) scheme is
vulnerable and backward communities by almost a century old in India with early
protecting required social resources for them, beginnings in Madras Presidency in pre-
lead to their exclusion in establishing independent India. The scheme has again been
businesses in urban economies? given impetus in most states in the last two
10.25 4.10%
decades. Critically examine its twin objectives,
latest mandates and success.
1) An athlete participates in Olympics for 1) The Central Government frequently
personal triumph and nation’s glory; victors are complains on the poor performance of the State
showered with cash incentives by various Governments in eradicating suffering of the
agencies, on their return. Discuss the merit of vulnerable sections of the society. Restructuring
state sponsored talent hunt and its cultivation of Centrally sponsored schemes across the
as against the rationale of a reward mechanism sectors for ameliorating the cause of vulnerable
as encouragement. sections of population aims at providing
2) Should the premier institutes like IITs/IIMs be flexibility to the States in better implementation.
allowed to retain premier status, allowed more Critically evaluate.
academic independence in designing courses 2) Identify the Millennium Development Goals
and also decide mode/criteria of selection of (MDGs) that are related to health.Discuss the
15.25 6.10%
students. Discuss in light of the growing success of the actions taken by the
challenges. Government for achieving the same.
3) Two parallel run schemes of the
Government, viz the Adhar card and NPR, one
of voluntary and the other as compulsory, have
led to debates at national levels and also
litigations. On merits , discuss whether or not
both schemes need run concurrently. Analyse
the potential of the schemes to achieve
development benefits and equitable growth.

Issues relating to Poverty and Hunger
International Relations
India and its Neighborhood – Relations
Bilateral, Regional & Global Groupings &
Agreements Involving India and/or
Affecting India's Interests
Effect of Policies & Politics of Developed
& Developing Countries on India's
Interests
Indian Diaspora
50
India is an age-old friend of Sri Lanka’. Discuss
India’s role in the recent crisis in Sri Lanka in
light of the preceding statement. (150)
1) Do you think that BIMSTEC is a parallel
organisation like the SAARC? What are the
similarities and dissimilarities between the two? s.” In the light of this statement, examine India’s military alliance, in present times – Discuss.
How are Indian Foreign Policy objectives
realised by forming this new organisation? (150) 2) “The USA is facing an existential threat in
2) How will I2U2 (India, Israel, UAE and USA)
grouping transform India’s position in global
politics? (250)
‘Clean energy is the order of the day’. Describe
briefly India’s changing policy towards climate
change in various international fora in the
context of geopolitics. (250)
50
1) If the last few decades were of Asia’s growth 1) ‘Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD)’ is
story, the next few are expected to be of Africa’ the transforming itself into a trade bloc from a
influence in Africa in recent years. (150)
the form of a China, that is much more
challenging than the erstwhile Soviet Union.”
Explain. (150)
3) Critically examine the aims and objectives of
SCO. what importance does it hold for India.
(250)
The newly tri-nation partnership AUKUS is
aimed at countering China’s ambitions in the
Indo-Pacific region. Is it going to supersede the
existing partnerships in the region? Discuss the
strenght and impact of AUKUS in the present
scenario. (250)
“The incidence and intensity of poverty are
more important in determining poverty based on relationship between poverty and hunger in
income alone”. In this context analyze the latest India. The shrinking of social expenditure by the cause of hunger takes the attention away from
United Nations Multidimensional Poverty Index government is forcing the poor to spend more
Report. (250)
50
(250)
2) What is the significance of Indo-US defence
deals over Indo-Russian defence deals?
Discuss with reference to stability in the Indo-
Pacific region. (250)
‘Indian diaspora has a decisive role to play in
the politics and economy of America and
European Countries’. Comment with examples.
(150)
Critically examine the role of WHO in providing
global health security during the COVID-19
pandemic. (150)
There is a growing divergence in the
on Non- Food essential items squeezing their
food – budget.- Elucidate. (150)
50
1) ‘The time has come for India and Japan to
build a strong contemporary relationship, one
involving global and strategic partnership that
will have a great significance for Asia and the
world as a whole.’ Comment. (150)
2) “The long-sustained image of India as a
leader of the oppressed and marginalised
Nations has disappeared on account of its new
found role in the emerging global order”
Elaborate (250)
3) “What introduces friction into the ties
between India and the United States is that
Washington is still unable to find for India a
position in its global strategy, which would
satisfy India’s National self- esteem and
ambitions” Explain with suitable examples.
(250)
‘Too little cash, too much politics, leav
How far do you agree with the view that the
focus on lack of availability of food as the main
ineffective human development policies in
India? (250)
50
“India’s relations with Israel have, of late,
acquired a depth and diversity, which cannot be
rolled back.” Discuss. (150)
1) A number of outside powers have entrenched ‘China is using its economic relations and
themselves in Central Asia, which is a zone of
interest to India. Discuss the implications, in this potential military power status in Asia’, In the
context, of India’s joining the Ashgabat
Agreement, 2018. (150)
2) In what ways would the ongoing US-Iran
Nuclear Pact Controversy affect the national
interest of India? How should India respond to
its situation? (250)
1) Hunger and Poverty are the biggest
challenges for good governance in India still
today. Evaluate how far successive
governments have progressed in dealing with
these humongous problems. Suggest measures
for improvement. (150)
2) ‘Poverty Alleviation Programmes in India
remain mere show pieces until and unless they
are backed by political will’. Discuss with
reference to the performance of the major
poverty alleviation programmes in India. (250)
50
The question of India’s Energy Security
constitutes the most important part of India’s
economic progress. Analyze India’s energy
policy cooperation with West Asian Countries.
(250)
positive trade surplus as tools to develop
light of this statement, discuss its impact on
India as her neighbor. (150)
Indian Diaspora has an important role to play in
South-East Asian countries’ economy and
society. Appraise the role of Indian Diaspora in
South- East Asia in this context (250)
60
1) Evaluate the economic and strategic
dimensions of India’s Look East Policy in the
context of the post Cold War international
scenario. (250)
2) “Increasing cross-border terrorist attacks in
India and growing interference in the internal
affairs of member-states by Pakistan are not
conducive for the future of SAARC (South Asian
Association for Regional Cooperation).” Explain
with suitable examples. (250)
Though there have been several different
estimates of poverty in India, all indicate
reduction in poverty over time. Do you agree.
Critically examine with reference to urban and
rural poverty indicators.
50
1) Project ‘Mausam’ is considered a unique
foreign policy initiative of Indian government to
improve relationship wit its neighbours. Does the
project have a strategic dimension? Discuss
2) Terrorist activities and mutual distrust have
clouded India – Pakistan relations. To what
extent the use of soft power like sports and
cultural exchange could help generate goodwill
between the two countries. Discuss with suitable
examples.
1) Increasing interest of India in Africa has its
pro and cons. Critically Examine.
2) Discuss the impediments India is facing in its
pursuit of a permanent seat in UNSC.
62.5
1) With respect to the South China sea,
maritime territorial disputes and rising tension
affaire the need for safeguarding maritime
security to ensure freedom of navigation and
ever flight throughout the region. In this context,
discuss the bilateral issues between India and
China.
2) India has recently signed to become
founding member of New Development Bank
(NDB) and also the Asian Infrastructure
Investment Bank (AIIB). How will the role of the
two Banks be different? Discuss the strategic
significance of these two Banks for India.
1) The aim of Information Technology
Agreements (ITAs) is to lower all taxes and
tariffs on Information technology products by
signatories to zero. What impact would such
agreements have on India’s interests?
2) Some of the International funding agencies
have special terms for economic participation
stipulating a substantial component of the aid
used for sourcing equipment from the leading
countries. Discuss on merits of such terms and
it, there exists astrong case not to accept such
conditions in the Indian context.
7.75 3.10%
80 55.25 22.10%
1) In respect of India — Sri Lanka relations,
discuss how domestic factors influence foreign
policy.
2) What is meant by Gujral doctrine? Does it
have any relevance today? Discuss.
5.5 2.20%
1) The proposed withdrawal of International
Security Assistance Force (ISAF) from
Afghanistan in 2014 is fraught with major
security implications for the countries of the
region. Examine in light of the fact that India is
faced with a plethora of challenges and needs
to safeguard its own strategic interests.
2) Economic ties between India and Japan
while growing in the recent years are still far 25.5 10.20%
below their potential. Elucidate the policy
constraints which are inhibiting this growth.
1) What do you understand by ‘The String of
Pearls’? How does it impact India? Briefly
outline the steps taken by India to counter this.
2) The protests in Shahbag Square in Dhaka in
Bangladesh reveal a fundamental split in
society between the nationalists and Islamic 12 4.80%
forces. What is its significance for India?
3) Discuss the political developments in
Maldives in the last two years. Should they be
of any cause of concern to India?
2.5 1.00%

Important International Institutions

 Syllabus
Economy
Planning
Mobilization of resources
Growth & development
Employment
Inclusive growth & issues arising from it
Government budgeting
Land reforms in India
Effects of liberalisation on the economy
Changes in industrial policy & their
effects on indutrial growth
Infrastructure
Investment models
Agriculture
Major Crops, Cropping Patterns in
Various Parts of the Country
Different Types of Irrigation & Irrigation
Systems Storage
Transport & Marketing of Agricultural
Produce & Issues & Related Constraints
E-Technology in the Aid of Farmers,
Technology Missions
Issues Related to Direct & Indirect Farm
Subsidies & Minimum Support Prices
Public Distribution System Objectives,
Functioning, Limitations, Revamping
Issues of Buffer Stocks & Food Security
Economics of Animal-Rearing
Food Processing & Related Industries in
India
Science & Technology
Developments & their Applications &
Effects in Everyday Life
Achievements of Indians in Science &
Technology
Indigenization of Technology &
Developing New Technology
Awareness in Different Fields
Issues Relating to Intellectual Property
Rights
Biodiversity & Environment
Different terms in biodiversity &
Conservation
Environmental Pollution & Degradation
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
Disaster Management
Important International Institutions
Security
Linkages Between Development & Spread
of Extremism
Role of External State & Non-State Actors
in Creating Challenges to Internal
Security
Challenges to Internal Security Through
Communication Networks
Basics of Cyber Security
Money-Laundering & its Prevention
Security Challenges & their Management
in Border Areas
Linkages of Organized Crime with
Terrorism
Various Security Forces & Agencies &
Their Mandate
(2023) Predictions 2022
60
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 ?
(150)
Economic growth in the recent past has been
led by increase in labour activity.” Explain this
statement. Suggest the growth pattern that will
lead to creation of more jobs without
compromising labour productivity. (250)
Is inclusive growth possible under market
economy ? State the significance of financial
inclusion in achieving economic growth in India. (GDP) before the year 2015 and after the year
(150)
Do you think India will meet 50 percent of its Investment in infrastructure is essential for more
energy needs from renewable energy by 2030 ? rapid and inclusive economic growth. ”Discuss
Justify your answer. How will the shift of in the light of India’s experience. (250)
subsidies from fossil fuels to renewables help
achieve the above objective ? Explain. (250)
Why is Public Private Partnership (PPP)
required in infrastructural projects ? Examine
the role of PPP model in the redevelopment of
Railway Stations in India. (150)
50
What is Integrated Farming System ? How is it
helpful to small and marginal farmers in India ?
(250)
What are the main bottlenecks in upstream and
downstream process of marketing of agricultural
products in India ? (250)
What are the major challenges of Public
Distribution System (PDS) in India ? How can it
be made effective and transparent ? (150)
Elaborate the scope and significance of the
food processing industry in India. (150)
30
1) 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? (250)
2) 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 ?
(250)
60
1) 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 ? (150)
2) Explain the causes and effects of coastal
erosion in India. What are the available coastal
management techniques for combating the
hazard ? (250)
1) Discuss in detail the photochemical smog
emphasizing its formation, effects and
mitigation. Explain the 1999 Gothenburg
Protocol. (150)
2) Discuss global warming and mention its
effects on the global climate. Explain the control Programme are required to achieve these
measures to bring down the level of
greenhouse gases which cause global warming,
in the light of the Kyoto Protocol, 1997. (250)
Explain the mechanism and occurrence of
cloudburst in the context of the Indian
subcontinent. Discuss two recent examples.
(150)
50
Naxalism is a social, economic and
developmental issue manifesting as a violent
internal security threat. In this context, discuss
the emerging issues gest a multilayered
strategy to tackle the menace of Naxalism.
(250)
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. (250)
What are the maritime security challenges in
India ? Discuss the organisational, technical
and procedural initiatives taken to improve the
maritime security. (150)
Discuss the types of organised crimes.
Describe the linkages between terrorists and
organised crime that exist at the national and
transnational levels. (150)
2021
60
Do you agree that the Indian economy has
recently experienced V- shapes recovery? Give
reasons in support of your answer. (250)
1) Explain the difference between computing
methodology of India’s Gross Domestic Product
2015. (150) 2)
Distinguish between Capital Budget and
Revenue Budget. Explain the components of
both these Budgets. (150)
How did land reforms in some parts of the
country help to improve the socio-economic
conditions of marginal and small farmers ?
(150)
40
What are the present challenges before crop
diversification? How do emerging technologies
provide an opportunity for crop diversification?
(250)
How and to what extent would micro-irrigation
help in solving India’s water crisis ? (150)
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? (250)
40
What are the research and developmental
achievements in applied biotechnology/? How
will these achievements help to uplift the poorer energy generation. What are the initiatives
sections of the society? (250)
1) How is S-400 air defence system technically
superior to any other system presently available
in the world? (150)
2) 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 ? (250)
60
1) Explain the purpose of the Green Grid What are the salient features of the Jal Shakti
Initiative launched at World Leaders Summit of Abhiyan launched by the Government of India
the COP26 UN Climate Change Conference in for water conservation and water security?
Glasgow in November, 2021. When was this (150)
idea first floated in the International Solar
Alliance (ISA) ? (150)
2) Describe the major outcomes of the 26th
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?
(250)
Describe the key points of the revised Global Air What are the key features of the National Clean Coastal sand mining, whether legal or illegal, What are the impediments in disposing the
Quality Guidelines (AQGs) recently released by Air Programme (NCAP) initiated by the
the World Health Organisation (WHO). How are Government of India? (250)
these different from its last update in 2005?
What changes in India’s National Clean Air
revised standards ? (150)
1) Discuss about the vulnerability of India to
earthquake related hazards. Give examples
including the salient features of major disasters India departing from the earlier reactive
caused by earthquakes in different parts of India approach. (250)
during the last three decades. (150)
2) Describe the various causes and the effects
of landslides. Mention the important
components of the National Landslide Risk
Management Strategy. (250)
50
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.
(250)
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.
(250)
Keeping in view India’s internal security,
analyse the impact of cross-border cyber
attacks. Also discuss defensive measures
against these sophisticated attacks. (150)
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. (150)
2020
50
Define potential GDP and explain its
determinants. What are the factors that have
been inhibiting India from realizing its potential
GDP? (150)
1) Explain intra-generational and inter-
generational issues of equity from the
perspective of inclusive growth and sustainable economy in good shape? Give reasons in
development. (150)
2) 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? (250)
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. (250)
50
What are the major factors responsible for
making rice-wheat system a success? In spite
of this success how has this system become
bane in India? (250)
Suggest measures to improve water storage
and irrigation system to make its judicious use
under depleting scenario. (250)
What are the main constraints in transport and
marketing of agricultural produce in India? (150)
What are the challenges and opportunities of Elaborate the policy taken by the Government
food processing sector in the country? How can of India to meet the challenges of the food
income of the farmers be substantially processing sector. (250)
increased by encouraging food processing?
(150)
50
Describe the benefits of deriving electric energy What is India’s plan to have its own space
from sunlight in contrast to the conventional
offered by our Government for this purpose?
(250)
1) What do you understand by nanotechnology
and how is it helping in health sector? (150)
2) How is science interwoven deeply with our
lives? What are the striking changes in
agriculture triggered off by the science-based
technologies? (150)
3) 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. (250)
50
poses one of the biggest threats to our
environment. Analyze the impact of sand mining are continuously being generated? How do we Himalayan and coastal states of India will be
along the Indians coasts, citing specific
examples. (150)
How does the draft Environment Impact
Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2020 differ from
the existing EIA Notification, 2006? (150)
Discuss the recent measures initiated in
disaster management by the Government of
50
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? (250)
Discuss different types of cybercrimes and
measures required to be taken to fight the
menace. (150)
1) For effective border area management,
discuss the steps required to be taken to deny one of the several security challenges facing
local support to militants and also suggest ways the policing of the border in North-East India.
to manage favourable perception among locals. Examine the various challenges currently
(150)
2) 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.
(250)
2019
50
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. (150)
Do you agree with the view that steady GDP
growth and low inflation have left the Indian
support of your arguments. (150)
It is argued that the strategy of inclusive growth
is intended to meet the objectives of
inclusiveness and sustainability together.
Comment on this statement. (250)
The public expenditure management is a
challenge to the Government of India in context
of budget making during the post liberalization
period. Clarify it. (250)
50
How far is Integrated Farming System (IFS)
helpful in sustaining agricultural production
(150)
Elaborate the impact of National Watershed
Project in increasing agricultural production
from water-stressed areas. (150)
What are the reformative steps taken by the
Government to make food grain distribution
system more effective? (250)
50
How can biotechnology help to improve the
living standards of farmers? (250)
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? (150)
station and how will it benefit our space
programme? (150)
How is the Government of India protecting
traditional knowledge of medicine from
patenting by pharmaceutical companies? (250)
50
Define the concept of carrying capacity of an
ecosystem as relevant to an environment.
Explain how understanding this concept is vital conservation of flora and fauna? (250)
while planning for sustainable development of a 2) What is wetland? Explain the Ramsar
region. (250)
huge quantities of discarded solid wastes which will be affected by climate change? How
remove safely the toxic wastes that have been affected by climate change? (250)
accumulating in our habitable environment?
(150)
1) Vulnerability is an essential element for
defining disaster impacts and its threat to
people. How and in what ways can vulnerability signing ‘Sendai Framework for DRR (2015-
to disasters be characterized? Discuss different 2030)’. How is this framework different from
types of vulnerability with reference to disasters. ‘Hyogo Framework for Action, 2005’? (250)
(150)
2) Disaster preparedness is the first step in any
disaster management process. Explain how
hazard zonation mapping will help disaster
mitigation in the case of landslides. (250)
50
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 prevailing security environment
while discussing the scope and reasons for
opposing the UAPA by human rights
organizations. (250)
The banning of ‘Jammat-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 influence of OGWs. (150)
What is CyberDome Project? Explain how it can Data security has assumed significant
be useful in controlling internet crimes in India. importance in the digitized world due to rising
(150)
Cross-Border movement of insurgents is only
emanating across the India-Myanmar border.
Also, discuss the steps to counter the
challenges. (250)
2018
50
How are the principles followed by NITI Aayog
different from those followed by the erstwhile
planning commission in India? (250)
Comment on the important changes introduced
in respect of the Long term Capital Gains Tax
(LCGT) and Dividend Distribution Tax (DDT) in
the Union Budget for 2018-2019. (150)
How would the recent phenomena of
protectionism and currency manipulations in
world trade affect macroeconomic stability of
India? (250)
“Access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and
modern energy is the sine qua non to achieve
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)”.
Comment on the progress made in India in this
regard. (150)
50
1) Assess the role of 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? (250)
2) How has the emphasis on certain crops
brought about changes in cropping patterns in
recent past? Elaborate the emphasis on millets
production and consumption. (250)
Examine the role of supermarkets in supply
chain management of fruits, vegetables and
food items. How do they eliminate number of
intermediaries? (150)
What do you mean by Minimum Support Price
(MSP)? How will MSP rescue the farmers from
the low income trap? (150)
40
With growing energy needs should India keep
on expanding its nuclear energy programme?
Discuss the facts and fears associated with
nuclear energy. (250)
1) Discuss the work of ‘Bose-Einstein Statistics’
done by Prof. Satyendra Nath Bose and show
how it revolutionized the field of Physics. (150)
2) Why is there so much activity in the field of
biotechnology in our country? How has this
activity benefitted the field of biopharma? (250)
60
1) How does biodiversity vary in India? How is
the Biological Diversity Act,2002 helpful in
concept of ‘wise use’ in the context of wetland
conservation. Cite two examples of Ramsar
sites from India. (150)
3) Sikkim is the first ‘Organic State’ in India.
What are the ecological and economical
benefits of Organic State? (150)
‘Climate Change’ is a global problem. How India
Describe various measures taken in India for On December 2004, tsumani brought havoc on
Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) before and after 14 countries including India. Discuss the factors
responsible for 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. (250)
50
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. (150)
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. (150)
cyber-crimes. 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 protection of personal data in cyber
space? (250)
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? (250)
2017
75
Among several factors for India’s potential
growth, savings rate is the most effective one.
Do you agree? What are the other factors
available for growth potential? (150)
Account for the failure of manufacturing sector
in achieving the goal of labour-intensive exports employment in the formal sector of the Indian
rather than capital-intensive exports. Suggest
measures for more labour-intensive rather than detrimental to the development of the country?
capital-intensive exports. (150)
What are the salient features of ‘inclusive
growth’? Has India been experiencing such a
growth process? Analyze and suggest
measures for inclusive growth. (250)
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. (250)
“Industrial growth rate has lagged behind in the
overall growth of Gross-Domestic-Product
(GDP) in the post-reform period” Give reasons.
How far the recent changes is Industrial Policy
are capable of increasing the industrial growth
rate? (250)
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. (150)
50
What are the major reasons for declining rice
and wheat yield in the cropping system? How
crop diversification is helpful to stabilize the
yield of the crop in the system? (250)
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? (250)
Explain various types of revolutions, took place
in Agriculture after Independence in India. How
these revolutions have helped in poverty
alleviation and food security in India? (150)
What are the reasons for poor acceptance of
cost effective small processing unit? How the
food processing unit will be helpful to uplift the
socio-economic status of poor farmers? (150)
50
1) Stem cell therapy is gaining popularity in
India to treat a wide variety of medical
conditions including leukaemia, Thallessemia,
damaged sornea and several burns. Describe
briefly what stem cell therapy is and what
advantages it has over other treatments? (150)
2) India has achieved remarkable successes in
unmanned space missions including the
Chandrayaan and Mars Orbitter Mission, but
has not ventured into manned space mission,
both in terms of technology and logistics?
Explain critically (150)
3) 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? (250)
40
Not many years ago, river linking was a concept Rehabilitation of human settlements is one of
but it is becoming reality in the country. Discuss the important environmental impacts which
the advantages of river linking and its possible
impact on the environment. (150)
50
1) 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. (150)
2) 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. (250)
3) 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? (250)
Discuss the potential threats of Cyber attack
and the security framework to prevent it. (150)
2016
85
Justify the need for FDI for the development of Craze for gold in Indian has led to surge in
the Indian economy. Why there is gap between import of gold in recent years and put pressure
MOUs signed and actual FDIs? Suggest
remedial steps to be taken for increasing actual rupee. In view of this, examine the merits of
FDIs in India. (150)
How globalization has led to the reduction of
economy? Is increased informalization
(150)
1) 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. (150)
2) Comment on the challenges for inclusive
growth which include careless and useless
manpower in the Indian context. Suggest
measures to be taken for facing hese
challenges. (150)
Women empowerment in India needs gender
budgeting. What are the requirements and
status of gender budgeting in the Indian
context? (150)
Discuss the role of land reforms in agricultural
development. Identify the factors that were
responsible for the success of land reforms in
India. (150)
1) What are ‘Smart Cities’? Examine their
relevance for urban development in India. Will it in equipment cost and tariff of solar energy be
increase rural-urban differences? Give
arguments for ’Smart Villages’ in the light of
PURA and RURBAN Mission. (150)
2) 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). (250)
30
What is allelopathy? Discuss its role in major
cropping systems of irrigated agriculture. (150)
What is water-use efficiency? Describe the role
of micro-irrigation in increasing the water-use
efficiency. (150)
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). (150)
30
1) Discuss India’s achievements in the field of What do you understand by “Standard
Space Science and Technology. How the
application of this technology has helped India system” in the GPS era? Discuss the advantage
in its socio-economic development? (250)
2) 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. (250)
45
always attracts controversy while planning
major projects. Discuss the measures
suggested for mitigation of this impact while
proposing major developmental projects. (250)
1) The frequency of urban floods due to high
intensity rainfall is increasing over the years. increased in the Indian subcontinent. However,
Discussing the reasons for urban floods,
highlight the mechanisms for preparedness to
reduce the risk during such events. (250)
2) 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. (250)
60
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. (250)
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.
(250)
‘Terrorism is emerging as a competitive industry
over the last few decades.” Analyse the above
statement. (250)
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. (250)
2015
62.5
on balance of payments and external value of
Gold Monetization scheme.
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.
1) There is a clear acknowledgement that
Special Economic Zones (SEZs) are a tool of
industrial development, manufacturing and
exports. Recognising this potential, the whole come into effect from Ist January, 2014. What
instrumentality of SEZs require augmentation. are the key issues which would get addressed
Discuss the issue plaguing the success of SEZs with the Act in place? What implications would it
with respect to taxation, governing laws and
administration.
2) “Success of make in India program depends
on the success of Skill India programme and
radical labour reforms.” Discuss with logical
arguments.
To what factors can be the recent dramatic fall
attributed? What implications does the trend
have for thermal power producers and related
industry?
62.5
In the 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.
How can the Digital India program help farmers
to improve farm productivity and income? What
step has the government taken in this regard?
In what way could replacement of price subsidy
with direct benefit Transfer (DBT) change the
scenario of subsidies in India? Discuss.
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.
What are the impediments in marketing and
supply chain management in developing the
food processing industry in India? Can e-
commerce help in overcoming this bottleneck?
50
Discuss the advantage and security implication
of cloud hosting of servers vis-a-vis in house
machine based hosting for government
business.
Positioning System” and “Precision positioning
India perceives from its ambitious IRNSS
programme employing just seven satellites.
What are the areas of prohibitive labour that
can be sustainably managed by robots?
Discuss the initiatives that can propel the
research in premier research institutes for
substantive and gainful innovation.
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 country’s fight against erroneous
patents. Discuss the pro and cons of making
the database available publicly available under
open source licensing.
25
Discuss the Namami Gange and National Should the pursuit of carbon credits and clean
Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) programmes development mechanisms set up under
and causes of mixed results from the previous UNFCCC be maintained even though there has
schemes. What quantum leaps can help been a massive slide in the value of a carbon
preserve the river Ganga better than credit? Discuss with respect to India’s energy
incremental inputs? needs for economic growth.
The frequency of earthquakes appears to have
India’s preparedness for mitigating their impact
has significant gaps. Discuss various aspects.
50
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) doctrine
affected citizens back into mainstream of social
and economic growth.
Religious indoctrination via social media has
resulted in Indian youth joining the ISIS. What is countries complete and exclusive sovereignty
ISIS and its mission? How can ISIS be
dangerous to the internal security of our
country.
Considering the threats cyberspace poses for
the country, India needs a “Digital Armed
Forces” to prevent crimes. Critically evaluate
the National Cyber Security Policy, 2013
outlining the challenges perceived in its
effective implementation.
Human right activists constantly highlight the
fact that the Armed forces (Special Powers) Act, areas for piracy was moved from 65 degrees
1958 (AFSPA) is a draconian act leading to
cases of human right abuses by security forces. the International Maritime Organisation. What
What sections of AFSPA are opposed by the
activists. Critically evaluate the requirement with security concerns?
reference to the view held by Apex Court.
2014
87.5
1) Capitalism has guided the world economy to
unprecedented prosperity. However, it often
encourages short-sightedness and contributes
to wide disparities between the rich and the
poor. In this light, would it be correct to believe
and adopt capitalism for bringing inclusive
growth in India? Discuss.
2) Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the
defence sector is now set to be liberalized:
What influence this is expected to have on
Indian defence and economy in the short and
long run?
“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.
The Right to Fair Compensation and
Transparency in Land Acquisition,
Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013 has
have on industrialization and agriculture in
India?
1) Normally countries shift from agriculture to Write a note on India’s green energy corridor to
industry and then later to services, but India
shifted directly from agriculture to services.
What are the reasons for the huge growth-
services vis-a-vis industry in the country? Can
India become a developed country without a
strong industrial base?
2) National Urban Transport Policy emphasises
on ‘moving people’ instead of ‘moving vehicles’.
Discuss critically the success of the various
strategies of the Government in this regard.
Explain how Private Public Partnership
arrangements, in long gestation infrastructure
projects, can transfer unsustainable liabilities to from criticism. Critically discuss the pros and
the future. What arrangements need to be put in cons of the model.
place to ensure that successive generations’
capacities are not compromised?
25
1) There is also a point of view that Agricultural
Produce Market Committees [APMCs) set up
under the State Acts have not only impeded the
development of agriculture but also have been
the cause of food inflation in India. Critically
examine.
2) “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 finance in India. What constraints
and challenges do financial institutions
supplying agricultural finance face? How can
technology be used to better reach and serve
rural clients?
37.5
1) Scientific research in Indian universities is
declining, because a career in science is not as
attractive as are business professions,
engineering or administration, and the
universities are becoming consumer-oriented.
Critically comment.
2) 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.
In a globalized world, Intellectual Property Bring out the circumstances in 2005 which
Rights assume significance and are a source of forced amendment to section 3(d) in the India n
litigation. Broadly distinguish between the Patent Law, 1970. Discuss how it has been
terms—Copyrights, Patents and Trade Secrets. utilized by Supreme court in its judgment
rejecting Novartis patent application for “Glivec“.
Discuss briefly the pros and cons of the
decision.
37.5
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.
Drought has been recognized as a disaster in
view of its spatial expanse, temporal duration, assessment for pre-disaster management. As
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 Nino and La Nina fallouts in India.
62.5
“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.
1) International civil aviation laws provide all
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.
2) 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.
How does illegal transborder migration pose a
threat to India’s security? Discuss the strategies linked with border management, particularly in
to curb this, bringing out the factors which give view of the long porous borders with most
impetus to such migration.
In 2012, the longitudinal marking for high-risk
east to 78 degrees east in the Arabian Sea by
impact does this have on India’s maritime
2013 Average Percentage
90 67 26.80%
1.5 0.60%
1) Discuss the impact of FDI entry into multi-
trade retail sector on supply chain management
in commodity trade pattern of the economy.
Though India allowed foreign direct investment
(FDI) in what is called multi brand retail through
joint venture route in September 2012, the FDI 9.75 3.90%
even after a year, has not picket up. Discuss
the reasons.
2) Discussion the rationale for introducing Good
and services tax in India. Bring out critically the
reasons for delay in roll out for its regime.
Though India allowed foreign direct investment
(FDI) in what is called multi brand retail through
joint venture route in September 2012, the FDI
even after a year, has not picket up. Discuss
the reasons. 10.75 4.30%
4.75 1.90%
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. 9 3.60%
1) What are the reasons for introduction of
Fiscal responsibility and Budget Management
(FRBM) act, 2003? Discuss critically its salient
features and their effectiveness.
6 2.40%
2) What is meaning of the term tax-
expenditure? Taking housing sector as an
example, discuss how it influences budgetary
policies of the government.
Establish the relationship between land reform,
agriculture productivity and elimination of
poverty in Indian Economy. Discussion the 3 1.20%
difficulty in designing and implementation of the
agriculture friendly land reforms in India.
Examine the impact of liberalization on
companies owned by Indian. Are the competing 1 0.40%
with the MNCs satisfactorily?
5.25 2.10%
alleviate the problems of conventional energy.
11.25 4.50%
Adaptation of PPP model for infrastructure
development of the country has not been free
5.75 2.30%
30 43.75 17.50%
12.25 5.00%
5.5 2.20%
6 2.40%
2.25 0.90%
What are the different types of agriculture
subsidies given to farmers at the national and
state levels? Critically analyze the agriculture 4.75 1.90%
subsidy regime with the reference to the
distortions created by it.
2.5 1.00%
Food security bill is expected to eliminate
hunger and malnutrition in India. Critically
discuss various apprehensions in its effective 2.5 1.00%
implementation along with the concerns it has
generated in WTO
India needs to strengthen measures to promote
the pink revolution in food industry for better
2.25 0.90%
nutrition and health. Critically elucidate the
statement.
5.75 2.30%
50 42.7 17.08%
5.25 2.10%
1 0.40%
13.25 5.30%
1) What do you understand by fixed dose drug
combinations (FDCs)? Discuss their merits and
demerits.
2) What do you understand by Umpire decision
review in cricket? Discuss its various
components. Explain how silicon tape on the
edge of a bat may fool the system?
3) What is digital signature? What does its
authentication mean? Giver various salient
built-in features of a digital signature. How does 16.75 6.70%
the 3D printing technology work? List out the
advantages and disadvantages of the
technology.
4) What is an FRP composite material? How
are they manufactured? Discuss their
applications in aviation and automobile industry.
What do you understand by run of the river
hydroelectricity project? How is it different from
any other hydroelectricity project?
5 2.00%
30 45.75 18.30%
16 6.20%
1) What are the consequences of illegal
mining? Discuss the ministry of environment
and forests’ concept of “GO AND NO GO”
zones for coal mining.
2) Enumerate the National Water Policy of
India. Taking river Ganges as an example, 10.5 4.20%
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?
2.25 0.90%
How important are vulnerability and risk
an administrator, what are key areas that you
would focus in a disaster management
17 6.80%
50 52.25 20.90%
Article 244 of Indian Constitution relates to
Administration of Scheduled areas and tribal
areas. Analyze the impact of non-
implementation of the provisions of fifth
schedule on the growth of Left Wing Extremism.
14.5 5.80%
7.75 3.10%
What are social networking site and what
security implications do these sites present?
2 0.80%
Cyber warfare is considered by some defense
analysts to be a larger threat than even Al
Qaeda or terrorism. What do you understand by
Cyber warfare? Outline the cyber threats which
9.25 3.70%
India is vulnerable to and bring out the state of
the country’s preparedness to deal with the
same.
Money laundering poses a serious threat to
country’s economic sovereignty. What is its
significance for India and what steps are
required to be taken to control this menace?
3.5 1.30%
How far are India’s internal security challenges
countries of South Asia and Myanmar?
8.75 3.40%
2.5 1.00%
4 1.60%
 Syllabus 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013

Ethics and Human Interface

1) It is believed that adherence to ethics in
human actions would ensure in smooth
functioning of an organization/system. If
so, what does ethics seek to promote in
Essence, Determinants and
human life? How do ethical values assist in
Consequences of Ethics in - Human
the resolution of conflicts faced by him in
Actions
his day-to-day functioning? (150)
2) Ethics is knowing the difference
between what you have the right to do and
what is right to do.’-Potter Stewart . (150)
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
The Rules and Regulations provided to all
the civil servants are same, yet there is
difference in the performance. Positive
minded officers are able to interpret the
its Influence and Relation with Thought Rules and Regulations in favour of the
and Behaviour case and achieve success, whereas
negative minded officers are unable to
achieve goals by interpreting the same
Rules and Regulations against the case.
Discuss with illustrations. (150)
Moral and Political Attitudes
Social Influence and Persuasion
Aptitude
Foundational Values for Civil Service
Integrity, Impartiality, Non-partisanship
Objectivity
Wisdom lies in knowing what to reckon
with and what to overlook. An officer being
engrossed with the periphery, ignoring the
core issues before him, is no rare in the
Dedication to Public Service bureaucracy. Do you agree that such
preoccupation of an administrator leads to
travesty of justice to the cause of effective
service delivery and good governance?
Critically evaluate. (150)
Apart from intellectual competency and
moral qualities, empathy and compassion
are some of the other vital attributes that
Empathy, Tolerance and Compassion
facilitate the civil servants to be more
towards the weaker-sections
competent in tackling the crucial issues or
taking critical decisions. Explain with
suitable illustrations. (150)
Emotional Intelligence
Concepts
their Utilities and Application in
Administration and Governance
Thinkers
“Judge your success by what you had to
Contributions of Moral Thinkers and
give up in order to get it.” Dalai Lama.
Philosophers from India and World
(150)
Public/Civil Service Values
Ethics in Public Administration
Status and Problems
Online methodology is being used for day-
to-day meetings, institutional approvals in
the administration and for teaching and
learning in education sector to the extent
telemedicine in the health sector is getting
popular with the approvals of the
Ethical Concerns and Dilemmas in
competent authority. No doubt it has
Government and Private Institutions
advantages and disadvantages for both
the beneficiaries and system at large.
Describe and discuss the ethical issues
involved in the use of online method
particularly to vulnerable section of society.
(150)
Laws, Rules, Regulations and Conscience
as Sources of Ethical Guidance
What do you understand by term ‘good
governance’? How far recent initiatives in
Accountability and Ethical Governance terms of e-Governance steps taken by the
State have helped the beneficiaries?
Discuss with suitable examples. (150)
Strengthening of Ethical and Moral Values
in Governance
Russia and Ukraine war has been going on
for the last seven months. Different
countries have taken independent stands
and actions keeping in view their own
national interests. We are all aware that
Ethical Issues in International Relations war has its own impact on the different
and Funding aspects of society, including human
tragedy. What are those ethical issues that
are crucial to be considered while
launching the war and its continuation so
far? Illustrate with justification the ethical
issues involved in the given state of affair.
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
“If a country is to be corruption free and
become a nation of beautiful minds, I
strongly feel there are three key societal
Challenges of Corruption
members who can make a difference.
They are the father, the mother and the
teacher.” – Abdul Kalam. (150)
Case Studies on above issues
"The greatest wealth is to live content with little." - Plato
"The only limit to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today." - Franklin D. Roosevelt
"An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." - Benjamin Franklin
"A stitch in time saves nine."
"Better three hours too soon than a minute too late." - William Shakespeare
"A problem well stated is a problem half-solved." - Charles Kettering
"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take." - Wayne Gretzky
"Poetry is the language in which man explores his own amazement." - Christopher Fry
"Artists are the gatekeepers of truth." - Jiddu Krishnamurti
"Poets are the unacknowledged legislators of the world." - Percy Bysshe Shelley
"Technological progress has merely provided us with more efficient means for going backwards." - Aldous Huxley
"The Internet is becoming the town square for the global village of tomorrow." - Bill Gates
“The death of dogma is the birth of morality.” ― Immanuel Kant
"The only thing that is truly good is the good will." - Immanuel Kant
 Syllabus
Non Chordata
Classification and relationship of various
phyla up to subclasses
Acoelomate and Coelomate, Protostomes
and Deuterostomes, Bilateria and Radiata,
symmetry
Status of Protista, Parazoa
Onychophora and Hemichordata
Protozoa
Locomotion, nutrition, reproduction, sex
General features and life history of
Paramaecium, Monocystis
Plasmodium and Leishmania.
Porifera
Skeleton, canal system and reproduction
Cnidaria
Polymorphism, defensive structures and
their mechanism
coral reefs and their formation
metagenesis
general features and life history of Obelia
and Aurelia
Platyhelminthes
Parasitic adaptation
general features and life history of
Fasciola and Taenia and their-Pathogenic
symptoms and their relation to humans
Nemathelminthes
General features, life history
parasitic adaptation of Ascaris and
Wuchereria and their relation to human
Annelida
Coelom and metamerism;
modes of life in polychaetes
general features and life history of Nereis,
earthworm and leach
Arthropoda
Larval forms and parasitism in Crustacea,
connecting link
vision and respiration in arthropods
(Prawn, cockroach and scorpion);
modification of mouth parts in insects
(cockroach, mosquito, housefly, honey
bee and butterfly
metapmorphosis in insect and its
hormonal regulation,
social behaviour of Apis and termites
Molluscs
Feeding, respiration, locomotion, shell
diversity, general features and life history
of Lamellidens, Pila and Sepia
Torsion and detorsion in gastropods
Echinodermata
Feeding, respiration, locomotion, larval
forms, general features and life history of
Asterias
Chordata
Protochordata
Origin of chordates
general features and life history of
Branchiostoma and Herdmania
Pisces
Scales, Respiration, locomotion and
migration
Amphibia
Origin of tetrapods
parental care
paedomorphosis
Reptilia
Origin of reptiles
skull types
status of Sphenodon and crocodiles
Aves
Origin of birds, flight adaptation,
migration
Mammalia
Origin of mammals
dentition
general features of egg laying mammals,
pouchedmammals, aquatic mammals and
primates
endocrine glands (pituitary, thyroid,
parathyroid, adrenal, pancreas, gonads)
and their interrelationships.
Comparative anatomy
(integument and its derivatives,
endoskeleton, locomotory organs,
digestive system,. respiratory system,
circulatory system, including heart and
aortic arches, urinogenital system, brain
and sense organs (eye and ear).
Ecology
Biosphere
Concept of biosphere; biomes
Biogeochemical cycles
Human induced changes in atmosphere
including green house effect, ozone layer
and its impact
ecological succession, biomes and
ecotones, community ecology
Ecosystem
Concept of biosphere; biomes
structure and function of ecosystem,
types of ecosystem
ecological, succession, ecological
adaptation
Population; characteristics, population
dynamics, population stabilization.
Biodiversity
Definition and conservation of natural
resources, mineral mining, fisheries,
aquaculture, forestry; grassland; wildlife
(Project Tiger); sustainable production in
agriculture, integrated pest management.
Wildlife of India
Remote sensing for sustainable
development
Pollution
Environmental biodegradation; pollution
and its impact on biosphere and its
prevention.
Ethology
Behaviour: Sensory filtering,
responsiveness, sign stimuli, learning,
and memory, instinct, habituation,
conditioning, imprinting
Role of hormones in drive; role of
pheromones in alarm spreading; crypsis,
predator detection, predator tactics,
social hierarchies in primates, social
organization in insects; courtship
(Drosophila, 3-spine stickleback and
birds).
Orientation, navigation, homing;
biological rhythms: biological clock, tidal,
seasonal and circadian rhythm
Methods of studying animal behaviour
including sexual conflict, selfishness,
kinship and altruism
Economic Zoology
Apiculture, sericulture, lac culture, carp
culture, pearl culture, prawn culture,
vermiculture
Major infectious and communicable
diseases (small pox, plague, malaria,
filaria, tuberculosis, cholera and AIDS)
their vectors, pathogens and prevention
Cattle and livestock diseases, their
pathogen (helminths) and vectors (ticks,
mites, Tabanus, Stomoxys)
Pests of sugar cane (Pyrilla perpusiella),
oil seed (Achaeajanata) and rice
(Sitophilus oryzae)
Transgenic animals
Medical biotechnology, Human genetic
disease and genetic councelling, gene
therapy
Forensic biotechnology
Biostatistics
Designing of experiments; null
hypothesis; measures of central tendency
correlation, regression
chi square, student-test, F-test (one-way
& two-way F-test).
Instrumentation methods
Spectrophotometer
Flame photometry
Geiger-Muller counter,
scintillation counting
radioactive tracer
ultra centrifuge
gel . electrophoresis
PCR
ELISA
FISH and chromosome painting
Phase contrast micrscopy
Electron microscopy (TEM, SEM)
2023 (Predictions) 2022
85
What is meant by symmetry? Write about
different types of symmetry in animals. (10)
20
Explain asexual and sexual modes of
reproduction in Paramecium. (20)
15
Describe different types of canal system
found in porifera. Also mention their
functions. (15)
10
“Cnidoblasts as defensive organs in
coelenterates”. Justify. (10)
0 0
20
Explain habitat, habits, general features
and life cycle of Wuchereria. (20)
0 15
10
Structure of visual organs of cockroach
(10)
0 15
0 0
115
15
Describe habitat, habits and general
features of Herdmania. Write a note on its
development. (15)
15
Describe different types of scales in fishes
with suitable diagrams. (15)
0 10
30
Give an account of the origin as well as
adaptive radiation of reptiles. (20)
Evolutionary status of Sphenodon. (10)
0 0
40
Describe general structure of a mammalian
tooth. Also, classify mammalian teeth
based on their shape, attachment and
succession. (15)
Write general features of egg laying
mammals, pouched mammals and aquatic
mammals. (15)
Structure and functions of endocrine
pancreas. (10)
15
Draw a suitable diagram and explain the
structure of human eye. (15)
60
Explain biological, non-biological and
industrial fixation of nitrogen. (15)
What are ecotones? Explain by giving
examples. Also write a note on ‘edge
effect’. (10)
(a) What is meant by biodiversity? Explain
various means of in situ conservation of
biodiversity. (20)
(i) Differentiate between primary and
secondary pollutants. (5) Explain primary
and secondary treatment of waste water.
(10)
45
1) ‘Conditioned learning’ in animals. (10)
2) Describe two basic laws of learning.
Explain habituation, trial and error learning (15)
and latent learning in animals. (15)
Describe various types of social groupings What are pheromones? Discuss their role
in primates. Write a note on importance of in insects. (15)
social grouping. (20)
35
Mention the causative agent and means of
spread of tuberculosis. Also describe
symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and
preventive measures of tuberculosis. (20)
What is gene therapy? Citing suitable
examples explain germline and types of
somatic cell gene therapy. (15)
25
Comment on ‘measures of central
tendency of data’. (10)
What is Chi-square analysis? Explain its
applications in biology. (15)
25
Describe principle, working mechanism
and applications of gel electrophoresis.
(10)
Write principle, working mechanism and
uses of PCR. (15)
Klinefelter’s syndrome and Turner’s
syndrome in humans. (10)
https://upsc.gov.in/sites/default/files/QP-
CSM-22-ZOOLOGY%20PAPER%20-%
20I-280922.pdf
2021
110
0 10
Give an illustrated account of life cycle of
Leishmania (15)
10
Canal system in sponges (10)
25
1) Nematocysts of Aurelia (10)
2) What is alteration of generations?
Illustrate the phenomenon with life history
of Obelia. (15)
0 0
1) Define nephridium. Describe the various With the help of labelled diagrams,
types of nephridia found in Pheretima. (15) describe the different stages of life cycle of What is Heteronereis and how does it differ
2) Trochophore larva and its evolutionary
significance (10)
30
What is metamorphosis? Describe the
hormonal regulation of metamorphosis in
insects. (20)
Describe the respiratory organs and
mechanism of respiration in Pila. (15)
90
15
Describe habitat, habits and life history of
Branchiostima (15)
0 20
Origin of tetrapods (10)
0 20
20
What is hypothalamo-pituitary axis? Draw
a well labelled diagram of pituitary gland
and describe the functions of it's
hormones. (20)
45
1) Draw a well labelled diagram of avian
brain (10)
2) Describe the structure and functions of
internal ear in mammals(15)
3) Define double circulation. Give a
comparative account of heart in reptiles,
birds and mammals. (20)
55
1) Write a wrote on ecological pyramid
with suitable examples. (15)
2) Define ecosystem. Describe the
structure and functions of ecosystem. (20)
Ecological succession (10)
Biodiversity hotspots (10)
40
Explain the process of learning and
memory in animals with suitable examples
Biological clock (10)
45
1) Vermiculture (10)
2) What is apiculture? Describe the various silkworm and their causal agents (scientific of life history of mulberry silkworm. Explain methodology employed in lac culture. Also
methods of bee keeping and also add a
note on the uses of honey. (15)
What is transgenesis? Describe the
methods and applications of transgenesis
in animals (20)
20
Define correlation. Explain its types and
methods of computing coefficient of
correlation. (20)
40
Describe the principle and applications of
PCR (15)
FISH (10)
Differentiate between SEM and TEM (15)
https://upsc.gov.
in/sites/default/files/Zoology%20Paper-I.
pdf
2020
110
Gamontogomy in monocystis(10)
10
Skeleton in sponges (10)
10
Different types of coral reefs based on their
formation (10)
15
With the help of labelled diagrams only,
explain the different larval stages in the life
cycle of Fasciola hepatica (no description
required) (15)
15
nereis. (15)
20
With the help of labelled diagramms,
describe the mouth parts of housefly,
butterfly and honey bee. (20)
15
Describe the respiratory organs and
mechanism of respiration in Unio. (15)
15
With the help of labelled diagrams, give an Water vascular system in asterias (10)
account of the larvae found in Asteroidea,
Ophiuroidea and Holothuroidea. (15)
90
10
Desribe various accessory respiratory
organs of fishes with examples (20)
15
Explain origin of amphibia and classify
amphibia upto subclass with characters
and examples. (15)
Describe the distribution, habits and habitat
of Rhyncocephalia. Write a note on
crocodilian and lacertilian characters of
Sphenodon. (20)
10
Flight adaptation in birds (10)
0 20
Write a note on general characters of
prototheria (10)
15
Give an account of aortic arches in reptiles, Describe the urinogenital system in both the
birds and mammals. (15)
35
Division of biosphere (10)
Phosphorus biogeochemical cycle (10)
Describe the use of remote sensing in
sustainable development (15)
25
Describe the characteristics of social
insects with examples (15)
Give an account of biological rhythm (10)
65
Desribe the names of any four diseases of Through a labeled diagram show the stages What is Lac culture? Explain the
names), source of infections, symptoms various methods of rearing techniques in
and management (20) sericulture and add a note on different
diseases of silkworm. (20)
Write scientific names of any 3 pests of
stored grains and describe the nature of
damage and management of Sitophilus
oryzae (15)
Transgenic animals (10)
What are the uses of biotechnology in
forensic science (20)
20
Describe the difference between f test and
t test. (20)
55
Explain the principle of spetrophotometer
and describe its following component
a) Radiation sources b) Phototube c) Prism
(15)
Describe the principles and applications of
gel electrophoresis (15)
Describe chromosome painting and its
versatility in modern diagnostics (15)
TEM (10)
https://upsc.gov.
in/sites/default/files/ZOOLOGY_I_0.pdf
2019
110
20
Give an account of nutrition in protozoa (20)
10
General characters and classification of
Porifera. (10)
10
Metagenesis- Does it differ from alteration
of generations. (10)
10
Parasitic adaptation in Platyhelminthes.
(10)
0 15
15
Describe the external features of Nereis.
from Nereis? Comment upon metamerism
in Annelida. (15)
20
Write an account on the social behaviour of
apis and termites. (20)
15
What do you understand by torsion and
detorsion in molluscs? ellucidate. (15)
10
90
0 15
15
Define migration and types of migration in
fishes with suitable examples. Comment
upon its significance. (15)
30
Define parental care. Give an illustrated
account of parental care in amphibia. (15)
25
Connecting link between reptiles and aves
(10)
Give an account of type of skulls in reptilia
with diagrams. (15)
0 15
Describe the dentition in mammals along
with relevant diagrams. (20)
0 0
sexes of amniotes with the help of diagrams
only. (15)
75
Biome (10)
What is biogeochemical cycle? Discuss in
detail the nitrogen cycle. (20)
Green house gas and its impact on
atmosphere (10)
What is community ecology? Explain
different stratification in biotic community.
Add a note on species abundance and
species diversity. (15)
Give an account on causes, consequences Give an account of sources, impacts and
and control of water pollution. Comment on prevention of air pollution. Comment on
Ganga action plan. (20) montreal and kyoto protocol also. (20)
40
1) Pheromones in alarm spreading (10)
2) Describe different types of social
hierarchies in primates. (15)
Explain orientation and navigation with
examples in different animals. Add a note
on homing behavior. (15)
45
describe the uses of Lac. (15)
Elephantiasis (10)
Write the systemic position of sugarcane
pest. Give an account of its life cycle and
the damage caused by the pest. Write a
note on its control measures. (15)
15
What is ANOVA? Differentiate between one What is Chi-square test? Give a detailed
way and two-way ANOVA. Comment on its account of the computation of Chi-square
application in biostatistics. (15) for tests of independence, homogeneity
and goodness of fit using biological data.
(20)
25
Ultracentrifuge (10)
Explain the principles and procedure of
ELISA. Give a note on its application. (15)
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CSM19-Zoology-I.pdf
2018
105
Protostomes and deuterostomes (10)
15
Give an illustrated account of Life cycle of
Plasmodium Vivax. (15)
0 0
15
With the help of diagram only, explain the
structure and lifecycle of different stages of
Obelia. Explain Polymorphism and status
of metagenesis (In obelia with suitable
diagram). (15)
0 0
Give an account on the structure and life
cycle of Wucheraria Bancrofti. Add a note
on pathogenecity and control of disease
caused by this parasite. (15)
0 0
30
Peripatus (10)
Give an illustrated account of different type
of mouth parts in insects and write a note
on their functional significance. Draw a
labelled diagram. (20)
20
Different larval forms of echinoderms and
their evolutionary significance. (20)
95
What is retrogressive metamorphosis?
Give an illustrated account this
phenomenon in Herdmania and Ascidians.
Also write a note on its affinities. (15)
0 10
10
Paedomorphosis (10)
10
Status of sphenodon (10)
Give an account of migration in birds. Add
a note on problems faced by them during
migration. (15)
45
Describe the integumentary derivates in
mammals along with labelled diagrams.
(20)
General characters of cetaceans and
primates (10)
Explain HPA axis. Draw a transverse
section of adrenal glands and describe the
functions of its hormones. (15)
70
Ozone layer depletion (10)
Endemism with reference to India (10)
What is ecological succession? Explain the
causes and theories of ecological
succession. (20)
Population dynamics (10)
45
Habituation and conditioning (10)
What is eu-socialism? Describe this 1) Explain the role of chemical signals in
phenomenon with reference to honey bees. alarm spreading. (10)
(15) 2) Mention the advantages of social living.
Describe different types of social
hierarchies in primates. (20)
What is biological rhythm? Give an account
of its type and characteristics. What is the
role of different factors in their
entrainment? (20)
45
Describe the structure of pathogens
responsible for AIDS. How is it transmitted?
Also mention the pathogenesis and
prevention of AIDS. (15)
What is the systemic position of the rice
pest? Give an account of its life cycle and
the damage caused by the pest. Write a
note on the measure for its prevention and
control. (15)
20
25
PCR (10)
What is resolution of a microscope?
Comment on the principles of SEM and
TEM. Describe the structure, working and
applications of any one of electron
microscopy in biology. (15)
https://upsc.gov.
in/sites/default/files/ZOOLOGY-PAPER-I.
pdf
2017
85
Differentiate between major and minor
phyla. Describe the salient features of any
one major phylum. (10)
What are bilateria? Explain the theories of
origin of bilateria. (15)
0 30
15
Give the structure of cnidoblast, the
defensive organ in cnidaria. Also describe
its mechanism of action. (15)
0 0
30
Give an account of larval forms in
Crustacea with examples and diagrams.
Also write a note on significance of larvae.
(20)
Explain the types of metamorphosis in
insects and their hormonal regulation. (10)
15
Discuss respiration in mollusca indicating
suitable examples. (15)
0 30
115
15
Explain primitive, degenerate and
advanced characters of Branchiostoma.
Comment on its systematic position. (15)
Some fishes can breath air, elaborate (10)
10
Discuss the origin of tetrapods. (10)
0 0
20
Give an elaborate account of flight
adaptation in birds. (20)
25
Explain various types of dentition in
mammals (15)
Give general features and examples of egg Give an account of calcium homeostasis in
laying mammals and pouched mammals. mammals (10)
(10)
35
1) Describe the roles of three eye layers in Describe with the help of suitable diagram,
humans. (15)
2) Give an account of aortic arches in
reptiles, birds and mammals. (20)
70
What are ecotones? Are Wetlands
ecotones? Justify. (10)
Elaborate the term ecosystem and explain
its structural components with examples.
Comment on trophic dynamics concept.
(15)
What is meant by biodiversity? Explain
protected area networking w.r.t to their
establishment, management and
monitoring. (15)
1) Discuss thermal pollution and its
preventive measures. (10)
2) Discuss environmental degradation with
regards to inland water resources. Suggest
measures to restore the water quality of
our rivers, reservoirs and lakes. (20)
45
Explain adaptations of animals inhabiting
fast flowing rivers. (15)
25
How is composite carp culture
advantageous over traditional carp culture. various species suitable for vermiculture.
(10)
Discuss the concept and importance
genetic counseling and gene therapy. (15)
20
What is meant by biostatistics? Explain the What is correlation? Explain its various
role correlation, regression and ANOVA in types and method of calculating correlation
data analysis in zoology. (20)
40
Explain the principles, types and
applications of ultracentrifuge. (15)
Define FISH: Principle, procedure and
applications. (10)
Write about phase contrast and
fluorescence microscopy with notes on
their application and principles in zoology.
(15)
https://upsc.gov.
in/sites/default/files/ZOOLOGY1_0.pdf
2016
135
Define ceolom. Write the general features
and examples of aceolomate, a
pseudoceolomate and a ceolomate animal.
(15)
Give an account of conjugation in
paramecium and its significance. (10)
Give an account of asexual and sexual life
phases of plasmodium vivax in their hosts.
(20)
20
Explain various types of canal system in
porifera. Also give their importance. (20)
0 15
15
Give general characters of phylum
platyhelminthes. Classify it giving the main
features and examples of each class. (15)
0 10
15
Give an account of social behaviour in
termites. (15)
10
Explain torsion and detorsion in gastropods
and also write their significance. (10)
1) Give an account of mutable connective
tissue. (10)
2) Draw labelled diagrams of basic larval
forms of echinoderms and describe their
evolutionary significance. (20)
65
10
Define migration and its causes. Discuss
the migration of anadromous and
catadromous fish. (10)
15
Explain parental care in amphibians and its
significance. (15)
0 10
25
Describe various hormones secreted by
pituitary gland and their role in humans.
Also explain feedback mechanism of
hormonal regulation. (15)
15
the major structures in mammalian ear
involved in hearing and balance. (15)
65
List different human induced changes in the
atmosphere. Describe greenhouse effect
and its impact. (10)
Enlist the various biomes of the biosphere
and discuss the problems and adaptations
of the animals of marine and desert biomes.
(20)
Define ecological succession. Differentiate
between primary and secondary
succession. Explain the various steps
involved in the mechanism of ecological
succession. (20)
Define remote sensing. Explain how it can
be used as an effective tool for sustainable
development. (15)
45
With the help of suitable examples explain
conditioning and imprinting in animals. (20)
Give an account of biological rhythm and
discuss the mechanism of their regulation.
(15)
Define kinship and altruistic behaviour in
animals. (10)
40
What is meant by Vermiculture? Enlist
Also explain techniques and importance of
vermicomposting. (15)
Define a pest. Describe the life cycle of
Pyrilla perpusiella. Add notes on damage
caused by it and its control measures. (10)
What is medical biotechnology? Discuss its What is Euphenics ? Explain its use for
role in human welfare. (15) improvement of human welfare. (15)
25
Describe the measures of central tendency
and measures of dispersion. What is their
use in biology. (15)
analysis. (10)
25
Write the principles, working and uses of
spectrophotometer. (10)
What is ELISA? Write its principles and
procedures. Add a note on its applications.
(15)
https://upsc.gov.
in/sites/default/files/ZOOLOGY1.pdf
2015 2014 2013 Average Percentage
90 90 95 101.5 25.375
What are minor phyla ? Enlist minor phyla
with suitable examples. (10) 3 0.75
5 1.25
0 0
0 0
15 10 0 13 3.25
Give an account of locomotion in Protozoa
indicating locomotor organelle with suitable
examples. (15)
Describe the ogans and mode of
locomotion in paramecium. (10)
0 0 25 9 2.25
Give an elaborate account of canal system
in porifera and discuss the taxonomic
importance of spicules. (25)
10 25 13.5 3.375
Give an account of structure of cnidoblast
and various types of nematocysts of hydra.
(10)
What are corals and coral reefs ? Describe Give an account of coral reefs, their
different types of coral reefs and their constituent compartments and significance.
formation indicating different theories. (15) (25)
0 0 25 6.5 1.625
Describe the life cycle of Taenia solium
through a labelled diagram only and
discuss its parasitic adaptations. (25)
0 25 0 6 1.5
1) Draw a transverse sectional diagram of
female ascaris and label it. (10)
2) What is parasitism? Give an account of
the lifecycle of Wuchereria bancrofti and
add a note on the pathogenecity and
control of the disease caused by the
parasite. (15)
0 10 6.5 1.625
Polychaetes exhibit different modes of life
adapted to habitats. Elaborate the
statement. (10)
Describe locomotion in hirudinaria (10)
25 10 10 20 5
Discuss parasitism in ‘Copepoda’.
Comment on structural peculiarities of
parasitic (15)
Differentiate the structural variation of Draw a labelled diagram of alimentay canal
mouth parts in insecta diagrammeticaly and salivary peripatus and salivary
and label them. (10) apparatus in periplaneta americana. (10)
Apis is known for social behaviour.
Discuss. (10)
15 12.14285714 3.035714286
Describe torsion and detorsion in
gastropoda. Add a note on the significance
of this phenomenon. (15)
15 20 12.22222222 3.055555556
Give an illustrated account of the Make a labelled diagrammatic
reproductive system, life history and representation of the basic forms and
development of Asterias. (15) diversities in echinoderm larvae and
describe their evolutionary significance.
(20)
110 110 105 98.5 24.625
10 35 0 12.77777778 3.194444444
Balanoglossus is the forerunner of
chordates" - Justify the statement. (15)
Herdmania is a primitive and degenerate What do you mean by retrogressive
descendent of ancestral chordates’. metamorphosis? Give an illustrated
Explain. (10) account of the gonads, developmental
sequences and metamorphosis in
herdmania. (20)
20 15 0 10.5 2.625
1) Give an account of locomotion in Pisces Differentiate the basic characters of
indicating the role of muscles and fins. cartilaginous and bony fishes with relevant
How do some fish fly ? Comment. (20) diagrams. (15)
0 0 25 11.5 2.875
Write an account of parental care in
amphibia. (25)
15 10 0 11 2.75
Describe the different types of skulls in
reptilia with labelled diagrams. (10)
‘Sphenodon is the most primitive and
crocodilians are most advanced of all living
Reptiles’. Discuss the statement. (15)
15 7.777777778 1.944444444
What is Jatinga bird mystry ? Is it related Give an elaborate account of the migration
with bird migration ? Explain. (10) of birds. Add a note on the problems faced
by them during migration. (15)
15 0 35 22.5 5.625
Give an account of fresh water, egg laying Describe hyoid apparatus in frog or
and pouched mammals with suitable necturus. (10)
examples. (15)
Describe the functional anatomy of neuro
endocrine inter relationship in mammalian
hypophysis. Name hypothalamic and
hypophyseal hormones in the tabular form
showing their functional relationship. With
the help of diagram only, explain feedback
mechanism in the HPG axis. (25)
40 35 35 23.5 5.875
1) Enumerate functions and main 1) With the help of labelled diagrams 1) Comment on the evolutionary change in
components of endoskeleton of describe the embryonic disposition and the proportion of limbic system versus
vertebrates. Give an account of types of modification of aortic arches in different cerebral system in hemisphere. (10)
jaw suspensoria in vertebrates with vertebrates. (20) 2) Through a comparative chart, give an
suitable diagrams. (20) 2) Describe the integumentary derivatives account of accessory sex glands in the
2) Give an account of gills and accessory in mammals along with labelled diagrams. male vertebrate animal types such as
respiratory organs in vertebrates with (15) dogfish, frog, lizard, pigeon and rabbit. (25)
suitable examples. (20)
80 65 75 65 16.25
State briefly what are biomes, ecotones
and ecological succession. Give an
account of the causes, trends and general 4.5 1.125
process of ecological succession in nature.
(25)
What are biogeochemical cycles? Discuss Describe the carbon cycle and discuss its
nitrogen cycle indicating the role of pecularities. How do human activities
9 2.25
atmospheric N-fixation, the role of bacteria interfere with the carbon cycle? (25)
and the impact of human activity. (20)
What is ozone layer?Describe the
emchanism of degradation of ozone layer 4.5 1.125
and its impact. (15)
Distinguish between edge, border and
ecotone. Why do edges and ecotones
3.5 0.875
often support a greater diversity of species
than the adjoining communities. (10)
0
Distinguish between a dominant and
keystone species. Add a note on the
crucial role played by the keystone species 6 1.5
on the community structure and structure
of a food web. (20)
Define ecosystem. Discuss the dynamics of
the ecosystem and factors influencing it.
(25) 7.5 1.875
5 1.25
What is meant by distribution ? Explain
patterns of distribution in natural 2.5 0.625
populations. (15)
Define biodiversity hot-spot and mention
the criteria of its selection. Write about
biodiversity hot-spots of the Indian sub- 6.5 1.625
region giving their salient features. (20)
0 0
Define sustainable development. What are
the merits of remote sensing in sustainable 5 1.25
development. Give examples. (20)
0 0
1) What is ‘Ganga action planr ? Explain.
(10)
2) Give an account of causes and
consequences of pollution of aquatic 12 3
resources and the problem of cultural
eutrophication. Suggest measures for
abatement of water degradation. (15)
25 45 30 38.5 9.625
What do you understand about 1) Define insight. Explain this behaviour
conditioning? Explain with relevant using the example of chimpanzees. (10)
11.5 2.875
examples. (10)
1) Explain the role of pheromones in alarm Describe predator prey relationship with
spreading. (10) suitable examples. (15)
2) Discuss social hierarchies in Primates
(15)
16 4
Give an account of orientation, navigation What is circadian and cirannual rhythm?
and homing behaviour in animals with Discuss briefly the influence of exogenous
10 2.5
suitable examples. (20) cycles on these rhythms. (10)
1) Describe the method of studying animal
behaviour using T maze. (10) 1 0.25
60 40 45 44.5 11.125
Discuss the status and scope of prawn 1) How are pearls cultured? Describe the Through a labelled diagram, show the
culture in India. Mention commercially economic importance of pearl culture. (10) stages of life history of bombyx mori. (10)
viable and cultivable species of fresh water 2) Describe the principle steps in apiculture 15.5 3.875
and brackish water prawns. (15) and add a note on various aspects of its
rearing techniques. (15)
Give an elaborate account on AIDS. (15) What is filariasis? Discuss the structure
and life history of filarial worm. Highlight its
8.5 2.125
pathogenic aspects and preventive
measures. (25)
0 0
5.5 1.375
What are transgenic animals ? How are
they produced ? Explain their contributions
5 1.25
to human welfare. Comment on ethical
concerns in relation to transgenesis. (20)
4.5 1.125
"Biotechnology is a vital tool in modem What is forensic biotechnology? Discuss its
5.5 1.375
forensic science’. Comment (10) significance. (10)
10 25 0 18 4.5
2.5 0.625
Give an account on correlation analysis, its
application and significance. (15) 6.5 1.625
Differentiate between one-way and two- Give an account of analysis of variance
way analysis of variance (ANOVA). and mention its significance. (10)
Comment on its applications in 9 2.25
biostatistics. (10)
25 25 50 33.5 8.375
What is principle of spectrophotometry?
Discuss the details of instrumentation and
application of spectrophotometer.
5 1.25
Comment upon the common feature of
spectrophotometric assay and ELISA, if
any. (25)
0 0
0 0
Describe the principle structure and
function of liquid scintillation counter and 1.5 0.375
mention its applications. (15)
0 0
2.5 0.625
Electrophoresis is a valuable tool in
resolving cryptic-species complexes. 3.5 0.875
Discuss (10)
4 1
4.5 1.125
What is chromosome painting ? Comment
5 1.25
on its principles and scope. (15)
Differentiate between phase contrast and While using a compound microscope, how
fluroscent microscopy. (10) will you know how much you are
magnifying an object.? Through a diagram 4 1
show the relative working distance under
low and high poers. (25)
4 1
Name 4 human genetic diseases. Give an
account of human genome research and its
application. (25)
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in/sites/default/files/ZOOLOGY_I.pdf in/sites/default/files/ZOOLOGY-I.pdf main-zoology-paper-1-2013-83.pdf
 Syllabus
Cell Biology
Structure and function of cell and its
organelles (nucleus, plasma membrane,
mitochondria, Golgi bodies, endoplasmic
reticulum, ribosomes and lysosomes)
Cell division (mitosis and meiosis)
Mitotic spindle and mitotic apparatus,
Chromosome movement
chromosome type ploytene and lambrush
Organization of chromatin,
heterochromatin
Cell cycle regulation
Watson crick model of DNA
Nucleic acid topology, DNA motif,
DNA replication
transcription and transcription factors
RNA processing, translation
protein foldings and transport
Genetics
Modern concept of gene, split gene,
genetic regulation, genetic code, gene
structure and functions
Sex chromosomes and their evolution,
sex determination in Drosophila, human
and nematodes
Mendel’s laws of inheritance,
recombination, linkage, linkage maps,
multiple alleles, citron concepts, genetics
of blood groups, pedigree analysis,
hereditary diseases in human
Mutations and mutagenesis: radiation and
chemical
Recombinant DNA technology, cloning
technology, plasmid, cosmid, artificial
chromosomes as vectors, transposons,
transgenics, DNA cloning and whole
animal cloning (principles and methods
Gene regulation and expression in
prokaryotes and eukaryotes
Signal molecules, cell death, defects in
signaling pathway and consequences,
Signal transduction; pedigreeanalysis;
congenital diseases in human.
RFLP, RAPD and AFLF and application of
RFLP in DNA finger-printing, ribozyme
technologies, Human genome mapping
Evolution
Theories of origin of life
Theories of evolution; Natural selection,
role of mutation in evolution, evolutionary
patterns
Molecular drive, mimicry, variation,
isolation and speciation
Evolution of horse, elephant and human
using fossil data, fossils and fossilization
Hardy-Weinberg Law & causes of change
in gene frequency
Continental drift and distribution of
animals
Systematics
Zoological nomenclature, international
code, Cladistics,
molecular taxonomy and biodiversity
Biochemistry
Structure and role of carbohydrates, fats,
fatty acids, cholesterol,
proteins and amino-acids, nucleic acids.
Bioenergetics
Glycolysis and Krebs cycle, oxidation and
reduction, oxidative phosphorylation;
energy conservation and release, ATP,
cyclic AMP-its structure and role.
Hormone classification (steroid and
peptide hormones), biosynthesis and
functions
Enzymes: types and mechanisms of
action
Vitamins and co-enzymes
Immunoglobulin and immunity
Physiology (with special reference
to mammals)
Composition and constituents of blood;
blood groups and Rh factor in human
factors and mechanism of coagulation
iron metabolism, acid-base balance,
thermo regulation, anticoagulants
Haemoglobin: Composition, types and
role in transport of oxygen and carbon
dioxide
Digestion and absorption: Role of salivary
glands, liver, pancreas and intestinal
glands
Excretion: nephron and regulation of
urine formation; osmo-regulation and
excretory product
Muscles: Types, mechanism of
contraction of skeletal muscles, effects of
exercise on muscles
Neuron: nerve impulse—its conduction
and synaptic transmission;
neurotransmitters
Vision, hearing and olfaction in human
Physiology of reproduction, puberty and
menopause in human, role of hormones
and phermones
Mechanism of hormone action
Developmental Biology
Gametogenesis; spermatogenesis,
composition of semen, in vitro and in vivo
capacitation of mammalian sperm,
Oogenesis, totipotency, fertilization,
Dedifferentiation
metaplasia, induction, morphogenesis
and morphogen
Differentiation from gamete to neurula
stage
blastogeneis, establishment of body axes
formation, fate map, gestulation in frog
and chick
genes in development in chick homeotic
genes
development of eye and heart
placenta in mammals
Invasiveness of placenta
Cell lineage, cell to cell interaction
Genetic and induced teratogenesis
role of thyroxine in control of
metamorphosisin amphibia
causation of metamorphosis in frog and
insects
Role of cytoplasm in and genetic control
of development
paedogenesis and neoteny
growth, degrowth and cell death, aging
Developmental genes in human, in vitro
fertilization
embryo transfer
cloning
Stem cells: Sources, types and their use
in human welfare
Biogenetic law
Evo-devo concept
Neoplasia
Regeneration
2023 (Predictions) 2022
80
What is RER? Describe in detail the
various modifications of secretory proteins Draw a diagram representing the dynamic membrane. Discuss the roles of lipids in
occuring in the lumen of RER. (20)
Draw the structure of microtubule and
explain its role in chromosomal movement
during cell division. (10)
Define endomitosis. Describe in detail the
structure of a polytene chromosome
highlighting the importance of puffs. (15)
Sketch out a basic transcription unit and
illustrate the RNA polymerase II
associated assembly of a transcription
initiation complex during expression of a
eukaryotic gene. (20)
What is facilitated diffusion? Describe the
mechanism of active transport across the
plasma membrane with suitable example.
(15)
45
What is mutation? Write a brief note on
various types of point mutation. (10)
1) Give schematic organisation of Cosmid.
Why is it prefered over plasmid for gene
cloning? (10)
2) Illustrate the steps of constructing a
recombinant c-DNA from an m-RNA. (10)
Stepwise intrinsic mechanism of apoptotic
induction. (10)
Principle of DNA fingerprinting. (5)
55
Write a note on the theory of natural
selection. (10)
Define variation. Describe different types
of variations and their role in evolution.
(15)
What is fossil? Describe the origin and
evolution of horse based on the fossil
records. (20)
Explain Hardy-weinberg law of equilibrium
and mention the factors that upset the
equilibrium. (10)
15
What is biodiversity? Describe the major
types of biodiversities found in nature. (15) in animal taxonomy. (10)
60
Illustrate. A=T and G=C base pairing as
part of DNA double strand (7.5)
Draw the molecular structure of ATP
synthase and diagrammaticaly explain the
chemiosmotic concept of ATP synthesis.
(20)
Explain the cellular mechanism of action
on steroid hormones.(15)
Illustrate. Michaelis-menten kinetic pattern
of an enzymatic reaction. (7.5)
Define immunity. Explain cell mediated
immune response in vertebrates with
suitable examples. (10)
75
Explain the functions of neutrophils,
basophils and lymphocytes. (10)
Define thermoregulation. How do
homeotherms regulate body temperature
in hot and cold climates. (20)
What are intestinal glands? Describe the
roles of intestinal juices in digestion and
absorption of food. (20)
Illustrate the counter current mechanism
by vasa recta and mention its physiological
importance. (10)
Draw the structure of retina and explain
the mechanism of vision in mammalian
eye. (15)
70
Explain the mechanism of What is sperm capacitation? Describe the
spermatogenesis in mammals with suitable method of mammalian sperm capacitation
diagram. (15) in vitro. (10)
Describe the structure and functions of
mammalian placenta. (10)
Describe the hormonal regulation of
metamorphosis in amphibians. (15)
What is stem cell? Discuss the types of
stem cells and their applications in
therapeutic uses in human. (20)
Define biogenetic law. Write the
characteristics of Haeckel's theory of
recapitulation. (10)
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CSM-22-ZOOLOGY%20PAPER%20-%
20II-280922.pdf
2021
60
1) Lysosomes are polymorphic, justify. Draw an ultra structure of plasma
aspects of lysosome system. Write down the regulation of membrane fluidity. (15)
the functions of lysosomes. (15)
2) Glycoproteins are asymmetrically
distributed in plasma membranes, explain.
Give an overview of membrane functions.
(15)
What is cell cycle? Draw an overview of
molecular events during cell cycle. Discuss Describe the roles of cyclins in the
the role of protein kinases in meiotic cell regulation of cell cycle. (20)
cyle. (20)
Describe the requirement of proteins for
the initiation of transcription in an
eukaryote (10)
60
What is modern concept of gene?
Describe the test of allelism with suitable
examples. (10)
1) What is chromosome theory of linkage?
Describe the methods for determination of
linkage using suitable examples. (15)
2) What is mendel's dihybrid cross?
Discuss the mechanism of independent
assortment using suitable examples. (15)
What is chromosome mutation? Describe
various types of polyploidy with suitable
examples. Add a note on phenotic effects
of polyploidy. (20)
60
Enlist theories of origin of life. Explain the
theory of biochemical evolution proposed
by Oparin and Haldane. (15)
1) Define mimicry. Discuss the types of
mimicry with suitable examples. (10)
2) What is isolation? Describe the measure examples (10)
isolating mechanism which lead to
speciation. (20)
What is fossil data? Discuss the
chronological order of human evolution
with suitable examples. (15)
20
What is cladistics? Discuss the
international code of biological
nomenclature. (10)
Describe the use of molecular techniques
70
Fatty acids regulate the nature of lipids,
justify. (10)
What is bioenergetics? Discuss the role of
second law of thermodynamics in energy
transduction. (15)
Cyclic AMP is a second messenger, justify.
Discuss the importance of cyclic AMP in
intracellular signal transduction with
suitable examples. (15)
What are peptide hormones? With the help
of schematic diagram, discuss the
epinephrine cascade for the glucose
release from hepatocyte. (20)
Define coenzyme. Explain the role of
coenzymes in the regulations of metabolic biological roles of fat soluble vitamins. (15)
reactions by giving suitable examples. (10)
70
Explain the respiratory regulation of acid
base balance. (10)
Explain the transport of oxygen in blood.
Discuss the factors that shift oxygen
haemoglobin disscoiation curve. (15)
Explain the basic stimuli causing
pancreatic secretion. Discuss the role of
pancreas in major food digestion. (20)
Describe the rapidly acting synpatic
transmitters with suitable examples. (10)
Describe the functional anatomy of
cochlea with suitable diagram. Write down
the functions of organ of corti. (15)
60
What is premordial germ cell? With the
help of suitable diagram, discuss the
process of oogenesis. (15)
What are morphogens? Describe the
cellular differentiation during
morphogenesis. (20)
What are gap junction proteins? Discuss
the roles of connexin in cellular interaction.
(15)
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in/sites/default/files/Zoology%20Paper-II.
pdf
2020
60
What is nucleosome? Explain the
functional elements of eukaryotic
chromosomes (15)
Draw an overview of eukaryotic cell cycle.
Describe the sequence specific DNA
binding protein (10)
70
What is woble hypothesis? How does it
explain degeneracy in genetic code? (10)
Describe the mechanism of sex
determination in drosophila (10)
Define mutation. Describe the types,
causes and applications of mutations. (20)
What is transgenesis? Describe the
methods for gene transfer in animals and
its application. (15)
What is RAPD? Give an account of the
general methods for mapping human
genome. (15)
45
Differentiate between sympatric and
parapatric speciation with suitable
Define paleontology. Discuss the
chronological order of elephant evolution.
(15)
What is hardy-wienberg equilibrium?
Describe the principles, mechanism and its
application in population genetics. (20)
25
Desribe the origin of code for zoological
nomenclature (10)
Explain biodiversity. Discuss different
grades and factors affecting the distribution the study of contemporary systematics.
of animal biodiversity. (15)
65
1) Define oxidative phosphorylation.
Describe the theories of mechanism of
ATP synthesis. (20)
2) Glycolysis is considered as metabolic
hub, justify (20)
What are vitamins? Describe the types and
Describe the basic structure and functions
of immunoglobulins (10)
70
What is the general mechanism of blood
coagulation? Describe the intrinsic
pathway for the initiation of blood clotting.
(15)
Enlist the composition of saliva. Describe
the mechanism of secretion of saliva (10)
Describe the proces of glomerular filtration.
Discuss the determinants of glomerular
filtration rate in humans. (15)
Enlist the sources of energy for muscle
contraction. Describe the mechanism of
contraction of skeletal muscle. (20)
Draw a typical neuron action potential.
Discuss ionic basis for the propagation of
nerve impulse. (10)
60
1) Give a schematic representation of
differentiation of sexual phenotypes during
early embryonic development in mammals.
(10)
2) Calcium is an initiator of cortical
granules reaction. Explain. (10)
What is metamorphosis? Explain the role
of thyroxine in the regulation of amphibian
metamorphosis. (15)
Define programmed cell death. Explain the
molecular mechanism and significance of
apoptosis during early embryonic
development. (20)
What are embryonic stem cells? Discuss
the isolation, differentiation and therapeutic
applications of embryonic stem cells. (15)
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in/sites/default/files/ZOOLOGY_II.pdf
2019
70
1) Explain the isolation and methodology of 1) Explain the origin and functions of
study of the cell membrane. (15)
2) Explain the biochemical composition of enzymes. (10)
cell membrane (15)
Delineate the structural and functional
characteristics of polytene chromosome.
(15)
Explain that the cell cycle is fully based on
molecular events. (15)
What is transcription? Explain the process
of transcription in a eukaryote. (10)
75
Differentiate between genomics and
proteomics. (20)
Justify the statement, “linkage and
recombination play significant role in the
process of inheritance”. (20)
What is an artificial chromosome vector?
Give its application. (10)
Sequentially explain the process of
apoptosis (15)
Explain the use of ribozyme technology for
the treatment of diseases. (10)
40
Explain the stanley miller's experiment
related to origin of life. (10)
Write a chronological account of human
evolution as evidenced by palaentological
records (10)
Explain the process of continental drift and
its impact on animal diversity. (20)
15
Discuss the role of molecular techniques in Describe the traditional methods of
classification of animals (10)
(15)
80
1) Watson and crick model of DNA(10)
2) Secondary structure of proteins (10)
Make a diagramatic presentation of Kreb's
cycle (15)
Give a brief account of tropic hormones
which affect the endocrine glands. (20)
Define and explain the “Michaelis-Menten
equation”, and write its significance in
enzyme kinetics. (20)
Explain the structure and functions of IgG
immunoglubulin. (15)
65
Explain the structure and functions of
haemoglobin (15)
Tabulate and describe the digestive
enzymes, their occurrence, substrates and
end products. (15)
Enlist and describe the type and
mechanical properties of muscle fibres.
(15)
Physiology of action potential (10)
Structural account of mammalian internal
ear (10)
45
Illustrate the process of development
during gastrulation in a chick embryo (15)
Give a brief account of in-vitro fertilization
techniques used for mammals (20)
Ontogeny recapitulates phylogeny (10)
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CSM19-Zoology-II.pdf
2018
60
lysosomes with emphasis on different
2) Describe the structure of plasma
membrane according to the fluid mosaic
model with emphasis on the role of lipid
molecules in maintaining the fluidity of the
membrane. (20)
What are euchromatin and
heterochromatin? Explain the events of
heterochromatin formation. (10)
Describe the role of protein kinases in the
regulation of cell cycle. Add a note on the
importance of checkpoints. (20)
55
Explain the phenomenon of X-linked
inheritance in drosophila. (15)
Comment on the following genetic
disorder: Down syndrome, Klinefelter’s
syndrome, Sickle cell anemia (15)
Explain the distinctive features of plasmid
and cosmid vectors used in recombinant
DNA technology. (15)
Explain the use of VNTR’s in DNA
fingerprinting in paternity test. (10)
65
1) With suitable examples, describe how
adaptive radiation helps in the evolution of
terrestrial and aquatic animal groups. (15)
2) What are micro, macro and mega
evolution? Explain the terms with suitable
examples. (20)
Define isolation. Describe in detail the
premating and post-mating isolating
mechanism. (20)
What are fossils? Describe the process of
fossil formation and give two method of
determining age of fossils. (10)
20
Who proposed binomial nomenclature?
Describe the rules of zoological
nomenclature. (10)
20
Describe in detail about the respiratory
chain or electron transport during oxidative transport particles on the inner
phosphorylation in mitochondria. (20)
100
Explain the role of pancreatic enzymes in
digestion. (10)
Structure and function of nephron and
explain fluid balance regulation through
renin-angiotensin-aldosterone systems.
(15)
Describe muscle twitch and explain the
features of tetanus and summation. (10)
Describe the role of acetylcholine in
neuromascular transmission. (10)
Describe the role of visual pigments in
daylight and night vision. (15)
Describe the role of pituitary and gonadal
hormones on puberty and regulation of
menstrual cycles. (20)
Describe the role of calcitonin,
parathormone and vitamin-D3 in calcium
metabolism. (20)
85
Explain in details about the events involved
in the transformation of spermatid into
sperms. Comment on why you consider
these changes as essential. (15)
Describe the role of fertilizin and anti-
fertilizin interactions during fertilization.
(10)
1) With reference to gradient theory,
describe how polarity is established during organizer in axis formation of amphibians. labelled diagram. Write the contribution of
embyonic development. comment on its
significance (15)
2) What are fate maps? Describe the
methods of fate map constructions with
reference to frog or chicks. (15)
Describe the morphological and
histological types of Placenta in mammals.
Add a note on physiological function of
mammalian placenta. (15)
Give an account of Impact of drugs on
tetratogenesis (15)
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in/sites/default/files/ZOOLOGY-PAPER-II.
pdf
2017
65
Explain in detail the structural
organization and functions of Golgi
complex. (20)
What is meant by lamp brush
chromosome? Explain its structural and
functional significance. (10)
Explain in detail how a DNA molecule gets
organized into a chromosome. (15)
What is protein targeting? Illustrate the
same with reference to transport of
proteins to plasma membrane. (20)
50
What are multiple alleles? Explain the
phenomenon of multiple allelism by giving genetic basis and significance in blood
suitable examples. (10)
Explain whole animal cloning by giving
suitable examples. Enumerate the steps
involved in the whole animal cloning. (10)
Bring out the differences between
prokaryotic and eukaryotic gene
organization. (15)
What is meant by RFLP? Explain the
applications of RFLP. (15)
60
Give a brief account of the various
theories of origin of life on earth. (20)
1) Explain in brief the role of isolation in Discuss the role of mutation in speciation.
evolution by giving suitable examples. (10) Comment on the effect of the process of
2) What is meant by molecular drive?
Explain its significance in evolution giving
suitable examples. (15)
Outline the course of evolution of modern
day horse. (15)
25
What is CLADE? Explain the importance of
cladistics in evolution. (15)
Differentiate between molecular taxonomy
and classical taxonomy. (10)
60
Illustrate the organization of electron
mitochondrial membrane and explain
their role in ATP synthesis. (20)
Give the structure of cyclic AMP and
discuss its role as a second messenger by
giving suitable examples. (15)
What are Co-enzymes? Explain their
importance in metabolism. (10)
Discuss antibodies as key player of
humoural immunity. (15)
70
What is meant by Rh factor? Explain Rh
incompatibility in human beings. (10)
Give a comprehensive account of gaseous
transport in blood. (20)
Describe the process of digestion and
absorption in small intestine. (10)
Give a comprehensive account of
sacromere and explain the process of
muscle contraction. (15)
What is menopause? Discuss its
occurrence, consequences and
significance in human females. (15)
70
Explain the process of oogenesis. Discuss
the importance of meiotic arrest during
oogenesis. (15)
What is a morphogen? Describe its role in
embryonic development. (10)
What is an organizer? Explain the role of Explain the fate map of a frog with neat
fate map in understanding cell lineage and
(20)
development process. (20)
What are homeotic genes? Explain with
the help of suitable examples. (10)
What are stem cells? Discuss their source, Enumerate the clinical applications of stem Differentiate between totipotent and
type and application in human welfare.
(15)
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in/sites/default/files/ZOOLOGY2_0.pdf
2016
65
1) Enumerate a comparative account of
different functions of smooth and rough
endoplasmic reticulum. (10)
2) Explain the mechanism of transport of
large and small molecules across the
plasma membrane. (20)
3) Explain the structure and functions of
lysosomes. (15)
Describe the role of microtubules in
chromosome movement during cell
division. (20)
65
1) Explain ABO blood groups with its
transfusion. (10)
2) Explain pedigree analysis to illustrate
hereditary disease with suitable examples.
(15)
Describe the impact of gene mutation on
human health. (10)
Discuss the applications of recombinant
DNA technology in human health. (15)
Give an account of human genome project. Narrate, with suitable examples the use of
(15) ribozymes in health care and agriculture.
(10)
55
Explain the salient feature in the theory of
natural selection. Add a special comment
on synthetic theory of evolution. (15)
variation on evolution. (20)
Discuss hardy weinberg lae and its
application in evolution. (10)
Explain the key features of oriental region
with its sub-region. Add a note on the
faunistic distribution of the region. (10)
15
What is biodiversity? Write on impact of
climate change on biodiversity. Add a note
on hot spots in India. (15)
70
Give the structural formula of an amino acid
and show how a peptide bond formation
occurs. Also explain how amino acids differ
from each other. (10)
Discuss that TCA cycle is the central
pathway in the energy metabolism of a cell.
(15)
Explain in brief about the synthesis and
functions of steroid and peptide hormones.
(15)
Explain the function of coenzymes with
suitable examples. (15)
Give the classification of immunoglobulin
and state their functions. Draw a labeled
diagram of IgM. (15)
55
1) Discuss the mechanism involved in the
survival of estuarine animals in varying
salinities. (10)
2) Elucidate the importance of
thermoregulation with reference to its
relationship with homeostasis in
endothermic animals. (20)
Describe the sequence of stages during
synaptic transmission with acetylcholine as
the neurotransmitter. (15)
Describe the structure of rods and cones in Name different parts of ear and their
retina, and discuss their role in vision. (10) functions. (10)
70
What is composition of semen? Explain
briefly about in-vitro and in-vivo
capacitation of mammalian sperm. (15)
Explain the term and structural details of
placenta in a eutherian mammal. Add a
note on its significant role in pregnancy.
(15)
What is neoteny? How does it occur?
Discuss the phenomenon in amhibia giving
suitable example. (10)
cells. (10) multipotent cells with suitable examples.
Explain the use of stem cells in human
https://upsc.gov.
in/sites/default/files/ZOOLOGY2.pdf
2015 2014 2013 Average Percentage
50 50 45 60.5 15.125
List and illustrate the components of 1) Compare the function of mitochondrial
biological membranes in terms of . their and lysosomal enzymes in cellular
arrangement, role in the maintenance of metabolism. (10)
feudicity, permeability and signal reception 2) Describe the structural organisation of a
and translation. (10) prokaryotic cell. What are the traits and
26.5 6.625
functions in which it differs from a
eukaryotic cell? (20)
3) Give an account of structure and
functions of the organelles considered
unusual in cell cytoplasm. (15)
Compare the events during mitotic and
meiotic cell cycles. Add a note on role of
2 0.5
stage specific macromolecules and
enzymes in such cycles. (20)
3 0.75
What are giant chromosomes ? Name
them. State their locations and illustrate
5.5 1.375
their structures. How do they function ?
(15)
4 1
What are Rb and proteins ? How do they
regulate the cell cycle ? How do they
9 2.25
protect the cell from carcinogenesis ? (15)
0 0
What are nucleic acids? Describe the
structure and functions of various types of 1 0.25
RNAs. (10)
Arrange the sequential enzymatic
participations in DNA replication. Describe 1 0.25
their specific role in each step. (10)
5 1.25
0 0
Give an illustrated account of protein
synthesis in eukaryotic cell. Compare this
with similar events in a prokaryotic. Add a
1.5 0.375
note on the mechanisms that lead to
migration if such proteins in the lumen of
endoplasmic reticulum. (20)
80 65 120 68.5 17.125
Characterize with suitable examples, the What is interrupted gene? What is its
following features of genetic code. 1) relation with exons and introns?Explain the
6 1.5
Degeneracy 2) Universality of genetic code functioning of interrupted gene in lower
and add a note on wobble hypothesis. (10) eukaryotes. (10)
What is Hox gene? Give the properties of
Hox gene and its cluster. What role do they 3.5 0.875
play in humans? (10)
The Genotype of the parent is as under : Describe the molecular basis of following 1) Dilineate the production of new
2n + XhY x 2n + XQxh . Indicate the type inherited diseases and their manifestations combinations of alleles, encoding a novel
of Gametes that will be formed and in humans. a) Cystic fibrosis b) Sickle cell set of genetic informations. What is its role
character represented by their Offsprings. anemia c) Hunting chorea (15) in genetic engineering? (20)
Also indicate whether the parents are 2) Describe the long term and short term
carriers or free from disorder. effects of stress on human body. (10)
Find out: 3) What are sex linked and sex limited
17.5 4.375
(i) Percentage of carriers. characters? Explain by suitable examples
(ii) Percentage of haemophilic sons and their mode of transmission. (10)
daughters.
(iii) Percentage of normal offsprings.
Why does haemophilia occur ? Give the
symptoms of haemophilia. How
is haemophilia genetically inherited ? (20)
What is mutagenesis ? Explain with
diagrams how mutagens cause genetic
7 1.75
changes. (10)
1) Define the characters of DNA vectors. What are various vectors used in genetic What is recombinant DNA technolgoy?
Explain with diagrams how these vectors engineering. Write and compare the How it is done? Discuss its applications.
function in a variety of situations. (15) protocol for each. (15) (15)
14.5 3.625
2) Which stage of the development is used
to produce*, the transgenic "animals ? How
is it done ? (15)
Define operon. Give the similarities and Give an illustrated account of lac operon in How does protein synthetic machinery
differences between tryptophan and E.coli (10) operate in a prokaryote? Mention the
5 1.25
arabinose operon, with a focus on various functions of protein in eukaryotes
attenuation. (10) and prokaryotes. (15)
2.5 0.625
Describe the process of DNA finger 1) Which eukaryotes do not contain
printing and indicate which of the following repetitive DNA? Give a brief account of
is used in DNA finger printing. A) biological macromolecules found in all
Palindromic sequences of DNA B) V.N.T.R living organisms. (15) 12.5 3.125
C) Shine dalgrano sequence D) TATA 2) What are RNA genes? State the role of
boxes (15) ribozymes and microRNA in protein
synthesis. (15)
70 45 60 55.5 13.875
Illustrate the different 'theories regarding
the origin of life with special reference to 6.5 1.625
protein evolution. (20)
How are evolutionary patterns and
processes affected by the dual operation of
mutation and natural selection? Give
7.5 1.875
examples. (15)
1) “Isolation is the key factor in evolution.” Describe the phenomenon of mimesis and
Justify the statement giving suitable crypsis in animal with suitable examples.
examples from geographical and (10)
reproductive isolation. (15) 16 4
2) Define mimicry. How does it occur ?
How has mimicry evolved in the animal
kingdom ? Give examples. (15)
Give the characteristic features of 1) Identify the five important evolutionary Using the fossil history of humans,
ancestors of elephants and give changes led to evolution of modern homo- reconstruct the stages of evolution of
progressive evolutions that have occurred sapiens from ancestral stock during present day homo sapiens, mentioning the
during various geological times resulting in various geological era and epoch. (15) geological periods as well. (20) 15.5 3.875
the emergence of the modem day 2) Give an illustrated account of evolution
elephant. (20) of horse, mentioning the relevant
geological time periods. (15)
What is hardy wienberg law? Give
examples to establish its validity and 5.5 1.375
limitations. (15)
Define continental drift. Explain the
processes by which this has impacted
4.5 1.125
upon the geographical distribution of fauna
restricting it to certain regions only. (15)
15 15 10 17.5 4.375
What is ICZN ? Explain the principle, What is cladistics? Discuss its applications
scope and limitations in the present day in understanding the evolution of life forms 7.5 1.875
scenario of nomenclature. (15) and phylogeny. (15)
What is taxonomic hierarchy? Explain
biodiversity on the basis of molecular 10 2.5
taxonomy using suitable examples. (10)
70 40 40 57.5 14.375
Differentiate between saturated and
unsaturated fatty acids and their functions. 2 0.5
(10)
5.25 1.3125
Illustrate and narate the structure of F1-F0
particles of mitochondria. How do they
facilitate movement of protons across the 11 2.75
mitochondrial membrane leading to ATP
generation.?(10)
Describe with suitable diagrams the role of What is cyclic AMP? How it is derived?
G-protein in the synthesis of C-AMP. Mention the role of cyclic AMP in eukaryotic
8 2
Demonstrate how C-AMP activate protein cells. (10)
kinase. (10)
Define hormones. Distinguish between Describe the mechanism of synthesis of
Steroid and Peptide hormones. Give the protein and steroid hormones. How do they
name of the hormones and its mechanism affect cellular activity? (15) 10 2.5
of action that uses Ca+2 and/or Calcitonin
as second messenger. (15)
What is an active site ? How does enzyme
catalysis take place in an active site ? 4.25 1.0625
Explain with suitable examples. (15)
What are vitamins and co-enzymes ? What are vitamins? Name and give the What is anti-vitamin? Classify and describe
Describe fat soluble vitamins with functions of water soluble vitamins. the functions of vitamins in human nutrition.
examples. (10) Tabulate the diseases that occur in (15) 8.5 2.125
humans due to hypo and hyper
vitaminosis. (10)
Differentiate between Innate and Adaptive What are immunoglobulins? Descibe the
immunity. Justify your answer with suitable struture of IgG and add a note on its 9.5 2.375
examples. (10) diversity. (20)
65 60 75 70.5 17.625
What is hematopoisis? Indicate the site What are erythroid cells? Explain the RBC
and the stages by which erythrocytes, lineage in balancing haemoglobin
various type of leucocytes and platelets are manufacture. (15) 4 1
formed. Which chemical factor control and
coordinate their events? (20)
What do u mean by anticoagulants?
Describe the structure and function of
4.5 1.125
natural and synthetic anticoagulant. (15)
Mention the different steps in metabolism of
iron. What are the functions that require
iron? Add a note on the regulatory
mechanisms that ensure stable titers of iron 7 1.75
in the body. (10)
5 1.25
Explain the role of salivary glands, liver, Name the enzymes and hormones Mention the hypothalamic-
pancreas and intestinal glands in fat released by liver and pancreas. Discuss adenohypophysical secretions that
and'carbohydrate digestion. (15) their function in digestion of food and stimulate, sustain and regulate adrenal 12.5 3.125
maintenance of blood glucose blance. (10) cortex functions. Add a note on feedback
systems. (15)
Label the parts of nephron and answer the
following questions : (i) Which region of
the kidney contains malpighian body, loop
of Henle and collecting ducts ?— (ii) What
is Glomerular filtration rate ? (iii) Write the
steps, of urine formation. (iv) What is the 6 1.5
effect of vasopressin, oxytocin and
aldosterone in renal- ^function? / (v) What
is the holding capacity, of urinary bladder
in man and the term used for the discharge
of urine ? (20)
Explain with diagrams the molecular
mechanism of contraction of skeletal
muscles. Discuss the role of ions and
8 2
bioenergetics in muscle contraction.
Attribute the cause(s) for muscle cramps.
(20)
What do you mean by Neurotransmitters?
Describe andrenergic, cholinergic and
peptidergic neurotransmitters and write 7 1.75
their illustrated account of their functions in
synaptic transmission. (15)
Draw a lebelled diagram of human eye and
discuss the funtion of each layer. Mention
the role of eye pigments in visual 9 2.25
perception under light and dark condtions.
(15)
Differentiate between puberty and
menopause and discuss their neuro-
5.5 1.375
endocrine basis. Mention the aberrant
symptoms and disorders of both. (20)
2 0.5
50 85 50 64.5 16.125
Describe the role of neuro-endocrine
factors and sertoli cells secretions on
spermatogenic functions of human
9.5 2.375
semineferous tubules. (20)
4 1
0
3 0.75
0
Describe the process of formation of three
germinal layers. Draw sequential diagrams
and narratives to show formation of eye in
frog or chick. (15) 10 2.5
1 0.25
0
Usin villi as the basis of classification,
describe the various types of placenta in
eutherian mammals. Add a note on 6 1.5
placental hormones and their role in
pregnancy and birth. (20)
0
1.5 0.375
1.5 0.375
What is metamorphosis ? Differentiate With suitable illustrations delineate the role
between retrogressive and progressive of triiodothyronine and tetraiodothyronine in
5.5 1.375
metamorphosis, with figures and amphibian metamorphosis. (10)
examples. How are they regulated ? (15)
0
0
What is paedomorphosis? How is it
different from Neoteny? Add a note on its
2.5 0.625
significance in evolution of homosapiens.
(15)
What are caspase enzymes ? Narrate their 1) Give evidence in favour of mitochondrial
crucial role in cell death. (15) theory of aging. What are its limitations?
(10)
6.5 1.625
2) What is apoptosis? What are its stages?
Write about the molecular mechanism of
apoptosis. (20)
What is IVF? Make a flow chart of steps in
3 0.75
IVF. Add a note on its application. (10)
0 0
0 0
8 2
diseases. (20)
Haeckel propounded the concept (law),
ontogeny recapitulates phylogeny. Give
3.5 0.875
evidence and examples that negates it or
favors it. (15)
0
0
0
https://www.upsc.gov. https://upsc.gov. https://www.careerindia.com/upsc/upsc-
in/sites/default/files/ZOOLOGY-II_1.pdf in/sites/default/files/ZOOLOGY-II.pdf main-zoology-paper-2-2013-84.pdf
 General Finance 2022 2021 Payment infrastructure development fund
Financial System Legal entity identifier
Small industries limit: Investment wise and
RBI and financial institutions turnover wise
What is targeted long term repo
RBI - functions and conduct of monetary policy operations? (10) FPI limit on corporate bond
Banking system in India: Structure and concerns CSR: In depth - 8 marks
Financial Institutions – SIDBI, EXIM Bank, Write short notes on 1) Nabard 2) Exim bank 3) NBFC 207 notification: Internal audit can not be
NABARD, NHB, etc., RRBs 4) SIDBI 5) NHB outsourced, data processing can be outsourced
Changing landscape of banking sector Will blockchain disrupt banking? (15) IEC code applicable to
Impact of the Global Financial Crisis of 2007-08 and Describe India's response in 2008 global
the Indian response financial crisis. (10)
Financial Market
Primary and Secondary Markets (Forex, Money,
Bond, Equity, etc.), functions, instruments,
recent National E toll collection & Fastag
developments Who introduced NETC? NPCI
Financial Market SEBI and RBI static question
Risk Management in Banking Sector ASBA process: SEBI circular
Para on infra and PPP
HAM, 40:60, Which sector this model is used:
Basics of Derivatives Infrastructure
Global financial markets and International Banking – What are basel norms? Basel 3 norms in detail with
broad trends and latest developments. its pillar. SEBI and Depositories and NPCI
Financial Inclusion Regulatory sandbox
Alternate source of finance, private and social cost- Revenue expenditure example: Subsidies and
benefit, Public-Private Partnership revenue payment
Corporate Governance in Banking Sector, role of e-
governance in addressing issues of corruption and
inefficiency in the government sector Maximum FDI in banks
The Union Budget – Concepts, approach and broad Discuss any 5 major budget announcements of
trends 2021-22. MCQ on market price
Inflation: Definition, trends, estimates,
consequences, and remedies (control): WPI, CPI
- components and trends; striking a balance
between inflation and growth through monetary
and fiscal policies
FinTech
 Economics and social issues 2022 2021 NFSA 2013 (One nation one ration card) Role of female enterpreneurs in India
Growth and Development WB: Human capital index report Advantages and disadvantages of renewable energy. How OSOWOG initiative help in eliminating these strategies.
Measurement of growth: National Income and per
capita income FTA (Ind-Aus) India has become medical destination for the world.
Consider 1) Per capita income 2) Consumption and
What are challenges associated with rural inflation 3) Net safety programmes as poverty
Poverty Alleviation and Employment Generation in entrepreneurship? How young enterprices can solve measurements and discuss their pros and cons.
India this problem? (10) (15) Sovereign gold bond scheme Peace cannot be kept by force, it can only be achieved by understanding.
Discuss India's commitmment to climate change in
Sustainable Development and Environmental light of socio economic, health and developmental
issues projects. (10) SMILE Scheme (MoSJE)
Indian Economy UDAN Scheme/Civilcervices day
Economic History of India Raisina dialogue (In depth)
Changes in Industrial and Labour Policy, Monetary What is meant by economic reforms? Economic
and Fiscal Policy since reforms of 1991 reforms from 1990s till now? (15) PM KMDY (MoAFW)
What are the three measures related to the
disinvestment of strategic sectors and non-strategic
Priorities and recommendations of Economic sectors in union budget 2021-22. Discuss their
Survey and Union Budget – rationale and effect. (10) Rashtriya gokul mission/Standup India scheme/One stop center
Indian Money and Financial Markets: Linkages with Short note on current monetary policy framework in
the economy India. (10) Bhoomi raashi portal (MoRTH)
Financial stability is essential to any financial
intitutions/business. Discuss in light of financial
Role of Indian banks and Reserve Bank in the stability report of RBI and economic reforms in view
development process of COVID break in India. (15) Matasya sampada yojana (MoAFW)
Explain horizontal and vertical devolution given by
What is NBFC? How is it different from bans? What finance commission and recommendation and
Public Finance are five types of NBFC registered with RBI? (10) ways to achieve it. (15) Yuva sahakar schem (MoAFW)
Political Economy PM Adarsh gram yojana (MoSJE)
Industrial Developments in India
Indian Agriculture
Services sector in India
Globalization
Opening up of the Indian Economy
Balance of Payments, Export-Import Policy
International Economic Institutions
IMF and World Bank
WTO
Regional Economic Co-operation
Discuss different dimensions of globalisation evolve
International Economic Issues since last fnancial crisis of 2008. (15)
Social Structure in India
Multiculturalism
What is the influence of demographic transition on
Demographic Trends economic growth with reference to India? (10)
Despite spread of urbanisation in villages,
challenges such as race, caste, gender,
discrimination still persists. In this context what are
challenges faced by protective discriminatory
Urbanisation and Migration policy? (15)
Gender Issues
Social Justice: Positive Discrimination in favour of
the under privileged
Social Movements
Indian Political System
Human Development
Social Sectors in India, Health and Education
 Management 2022 2021 Scalar chain
Fundamentals of Management &
Organizational Behaviour Lewin change model: Unfreezing
Introduction to management Conscienceousness personality trait
Blaming ones ethical behaviour on others: Displacement of
Evolution of management thought responsibility
Scientific, Administrative, Human Relations and
Systems approach to management Crosswire communication/diagonal
Describe manager's role in encouraging Herzberg theory: Which of the following needs not met?
Management functions and Managerial roles ethical behaviour in an organisation? (10) (Paragraph) - 6 marks
Nudge theory Commication process: Feedback: Comminication coding - 6 marks
How many levels are there in organizational behaviour: 3, where in
Meaning & concept of organizational behaviour this behaviour motivation takes place: Individual level
Personality: meaning, factors affecting personality,
Big five model of personality
Para on Organisational behaviour
Type of justice that relates to employees input to appropriate
award output?: Distributive justice
Study of psychological aspects? Personality and motivation
What is behavioural reinforcement? Explain Subject that deals with formation and mangement of team?
concept of reinforcement positive reinforcement and negative reinforcement. Sociology
Para on organisational change
Perception: concept, perceptual errors Second stage of Lewin model
Motivation: Concept, importance, Content theories
(Maslow’s need theory, Alderfers’ ERG theory,
McCllelands’ theory of needs, Herzberg’s two factor
theory) & Process theories (Adams equity theory, Commication barrier and budget: On language translation
Vrooms expectancy theory). National language translation mission
Leadership: Concept, Theories (Trait, Behavioural,
Contingency, Charismatic, Transactional and Difference between transactional and Motivation theory: Perception (Perpetual error sees individual as a
Transformational Leadership transformational leadership. part of the group)
Emotional Intelligence: Concept, Importance,
Dimensions. Analysis of Interpersonal Relationship Johari window (Interpersonal behaviour_
Transactional Analysis, Johari Window; Conflict:
Concept, Sources, Types, Management of Conflict Semantic barrier
People and organisations are resistant to
Organizational Change: Concept, Kurt Lewin change. Describe the measures to
Theory of Change eradicate it? (15) Max weber - bureaucracy theory
Organizational Development (OD): Organisational
Change, Strategies for Change, Theories of
Planned Change (Lewin’s change model, Action
research model, Positive model)
Ethics at the Workplace and Corporate
Governance:
Meaning of ethics, why ethical problems occur in
business
Theories of ethics
Utilitarianism: weighing social cost and benefits,
Rights and duties, Justice and fairness, ethics of
care, integrating utility, rights, justice and caring, An
alternative to moral principles
virtue ethics, teleological theories, egoism theory,
relativism theory
Moral issues in business: Ethics in Compliance,
Finance, Human Resources, Marketing, etc
Ethical Principles in Business: introduction,
Organization Structure and Ethics, Role of Board of
Directors, Best Practices in Ethics Programme,
Code of Ethics, Code of Conduct, etc
Corporate Governance: Factors affecting Corporate What is corporate governance? Need of CG? What
Governance; are the key principles of CG?
Mechanisms of Corporate Governance
Communication: Steps in the Communication
Process
Communication Channels; Oral versus Written
Communication; Verbal versus non-verbal
Communication; upward, downward and lateral
communication
Identify barriers to interpersonal
Barriers to Communication, Role of Information communication and how a manager can
Technology reduce it? (15)