From now onward, we will try to cover some basics too. Looking at the GS paper of this year’s

Mains it appears that there is lot of focus on Basics. Good to know that few questions from Secure-

2014 figured in the question paper!

02, December 2013

1. What was the impact of Bhopal Gas Tragedy on the environment and health on the people living

in the surrounding areas? (200 Words)

2. “India and Japan share the goal of total elimination of nuclear weapons.” Looking at the nuclear

policies of both the governments, in your opinion, do you think both countries have come closer

to this goal? Comment. (200 Words)

3. How does various WTO rules affect Indian agriculture? Explain. (200 Words)

4. Throw light on the need for framing rules for regulating the sale of acid. (100 Words)

5. Why does India need a civil nuclear liability law? Elucidate. (200 Words)

6. Comment on the Section 8(1) (i) of the Right to Information Act (1000 Words)

7. “The Shunglu Committee had suggested structural changes in CAG by making it a multi-

member body.” What is the rationale behind such a recommendation? Analyze.(200 Words)

8. What are the major inter-state river water disputes between riparian states in the peninsular

India? Explain the role of Tribunals in resolving these disputes. (250 Words)

9. Why Dombivili Industrial Belt was in news recently? (50 Words)

10. Tax-free secured redeemable non-convertible bonds (100 Words)

Reference 1

Reference 2

Reference 3

11. Social, Economic and Environmental Development (SEED) for the The Central Karakoram

National Park (CKNP) (50 Words)

12. Octocopters (50 Words)

13. What is Zero Sum Game? (50 Words)

14. Orange Revolution (100 Words)

15. Long March-3B rocket (50 Words)

16. Why the Bedouin were recently in news? (50 Words)

17. Greater Adjutant Stork (50 Words)

18. Tyagaraja and Pancharatna kritis (50 Words)

19. How can India eliminate the practice of open defecation in India? Suggest measures and give

examples of any existing successful models. (200 Words)

20. Community policing as a tool for better policing. (150 Words)

Indian Express.

03, December 2013

1. “Most importantly for regional stability, the completion of India’s maritime deterrent skews the

India-Pakistan nuclear competition in favor of India.” Comment in the light of Indian navy’s recent

acquisition of various capabilities. (200 Words)

2. Analyze the trend of voter turnout during the major Indian elections since 1951. (200 Words)

3. “Domestic exploration and acquisition of assets abroad are two sides of India’s quest for

stepping up energy supplies.” Examine how far has India succeeded on these two fronts two step

up its energy supplies? Explain the hurdles it has faced in the process. (250 Words)

4. Should India play a major role in resolving international conflicts involving other countries?

What is India’s response so far? Explain why. (200 Words)

5. Analyse key issues related to the Biotechnology Regulatory Authority of India (BRAI) Bill,

2013. Why some states are opposing the Bill? Examine. (200 Words) (Expect this question

tomorrow)

Reference 1

Reference 2

6. Why is there an opposition to the proposed Bilateral Security Agreement (BSA) between Kabul

and Washington? Examine highlighting the implications of such an agreement to the regional

security. (200 Words)

7. What is ECB? What are the broad guidelines regarding it? (150 Words)

Reference 1

Reference 2

8. Bodleian Library (50 Words)

9. “Reforms in the power sector must run in a businesslike manner, with the completion of their

social objectives.” Analyze the reforms so far implemented in the power sector and how they have

impacted the consumers. Explain what needs to be done to make electricity affordable to

consumers. (250 Words)

10. Secular stagnation (50 Words)

11. “India should first look at its North-East, not the East.” Comment. (200 Words)

12. International Cancer Genome Consortium (100 Words)

13. Tumor Suppressor Gene (50 Words)

4, December 2013

1. Write a critical note on the nature and frequency of farmers’ movements in India post 1991

economic reforms. (200 Words)

Reference 1

2. “What should have primarily served as an instrument for improving PSU management,

disinvestment has over the years become a mere financial exercise to raise revenue to reduce the

fiscal deficit.” Comment. (200 Words)

Reference

3. Write a note on the significance of Hornbill Festival (100 Words)

4. Do you think Indian media needs regulation? Comment why? (200 Words)

5. The Nonhuman Rights Project (50 Words)

6. Oxytocin and Autism (100 Words)

7. “To allow electoral calculations to decide the contours of the new state is to undermine the

legitimacy of the aspirations that fuelled the original demand for statehood.” Comment on the

statement in the light of ongoing events in Andhra Pradesh. (200 Words)

8. “The healthy state of India-Japan relations is best seen in its own terms rather than as a result of

a shared wariness of China.” Do you agree with the statement? Justify. (200 Words)

9. “The relationship between India and Iran has become transactional, rather than strategic.”

Comment. (200 Words)

10. “Social capital resides in social harmony, cooperation and trust.” Elaborate. (200 Words)

11. “Any nation must aim at a harmonious development of its four capital stocks: not just man-

made capital that GDP highlights, but natural capital, human capital and social capital as well.”

Elucidate in the context of India. (250 Words)

5, December 2013

1. Evaluate the role played by NABARD in rural development in India. (200 Words)

2. Write a note on the economic cooperation between India and Egypt. Do you think political

instability in Egypt has affected ties between two countries? Substantiate. (200 Words)

3. Sphere of Influence (SOI) of the Earth (50 Words)

4. Do you agree with the demand that Siachen should be demilitarized and declared as a protected

area? Substantiate. (200 Words)

5. What circumstances led to the creation of Article 370? Do you think provisions of this article

are still relevant? Critically analyze. (200 Words)

6. Highlight the strategic importance of Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) Agni-V to India.

(150 Words)

7. Analyze what systemic factors are responsible for the poor quality of higher education in India.

(200 Words)

8. Critically discuss why a stable Bangladesh with a strong democratic government and institutions

is important for India. (200 Words)

9. What are microplastics? Examine how the affect marine organisms. (200 Words)

10. Do you think India’s early childhood programs have succeeded in their mission? Critically

examine their functioning and need for reforms. If possible cite any example from other countries

that can be implemented in India. (250 Words)

(Hint: talk about ICDS, anganwadi system, malnutrition, IMR, creche system under NREGA etc)

11. What is ‘Dirty Bomb’? (100 Words)

12. Misuses of Cobalt-60 (100 Words)

13. Are there any productive non-military use of Drones? Do you think it would be safe to operate

them for private uses? Comment. (200 Words)

14. How does the proposed Prevention of Communal Violence (Access to Justice and Reparations)

Bill proposes to deal with communal violence in the country? Why is there controversy regarding

the bill? Do you think objections raised against the bill are justified? Comment. (200 Words)

15. Bird Flu Strains and their threat (200 Words)

06, December 2013

1. The Tropical Butterfly Park, Srirangam (50 Words)

2. Write a note on India’s nano Mission (100 Words)

Business Standard

3. Write a critical note on the causes and consequences of the Suez Crisis of 1956. (200 Words)

Reference

4. Comment on the nature of trade relations between India and Pakistan since Kargil War. (200

Words)

5. Explain how Election Commission can play a role in increasing voter participation in elections,

especially women voters. (200 Words)

6. The Pakistan Army’s Green Book (100 Words)

7. Is Article 370 a source of gender bias in disqualifying women from the State of property

rights? (150 Words)

8. Write a critical note on India’s efforts at conservation of its wild tigers. Has India succeeded in

its mission? Examine. (200 Words)

7, December 2013

1. Highlight the events that led to the arrest and later release of Nelson Mandela in South Africa.

Explain how Mandela sought to build a new democracy after his release from 27 years of

imprisonment in South Africa. (250 Words)

2. “The draft Ministerial Decision at the Bali Package at the Ninth Ministerial of the World Trade

Organization proposes an interim mechanism to safeguard minimum support prices to farmers

against WTO caps till a permanent solution is adopted.” What are the important provisions of the

draft? Examine how, if the draft adopted, helps farmers in the developing countries. (200 Words)

3. What are the socio-economic implications of displacement due to development on the

vulnerable sections of the society? Analyze. (200 Words)

4. Explain the events that led to the division of Korean peninsula and highlight the contrast in the

growth and development of two Koreas since the division. (200 Words)

5. “It always seems impossible until it’s done.” – Mandela

Write an essay on the above topic in not more than 1000 Words by giving examples of some of

the greatest events that were made possible by an individual or collective struggles in the modern

world history.

6. In your opinion, what is the best solution for resolving the Israel – Palestine conflict? Explain.

(200 Words)

7. What are the highlights of the Judicial Appointments Commission Bill, 2013 (JAC Bill)? Do

you think the provisions of the bill affect judicial independence? Substantiate. (200 Words)

8. “Financial incentives alone cannot end or drastically reduce the percentage of people continuing

with the practice of open defecation.” As an administrator, if given in charge to devise ways

eradicate this practice, what would have been your suggestions and methods? (200 Words)

8th December 2013

1. Do you think the recent WTO deal at Bali is a revival for the multilateral organization? How

will it boost exports? (200 words)

2. Write about UNESCO’s “Intangible Heritage” List. Describe the importance of “Manipuri

Sankirtana”. (100 words)

3. Comment on the boundary conditions between India and Nepal. What are the implications of

the measures taken by both countries recently? (200 words)

4. Bangalore-Mysore Infrastructure Corridor project. (50 words)

5. Pulichantala Project. (50 words)

6. What are the factors affecting cotton crop? What is pattern of cotton procurement it’s use in

India? (150 words)

7. Give a short account of tensions between North Korea and South Korea. (100 words)

8. What are implications of crisis in Thailand over its trade with India? (100 words)

9. What are facilities provided by the government for the welfare of Senior Citizens? (200 words)

10. Comment on the economic relations between India and Australia. (150 words)

09, December 2013

1. “The recommended higher percentage of devolution of Central taxes to states, coupled with the

higher grant to states recommended by the Finance Commission, would result in less resources for

expenditure.” Comment on the statement in the light of states’ demand for tax share from the

Union government. (200 Words)

2. What global factors were conducive for India to intervene in 1971 Bangladesh war? Explain.

(200 Words)

3. Highlight the contribution of Indian diaspora to the politics and economy of Singapore during

last few decades. (200 Words)

4. Mt Gox (50 Words)

Indian Express

10, December 2013

1. What is ‘caretaker government’ in the context of Bangladesh politics? Does India have such a

system? If it has, explain the differences with examples. (200 Words)

2. In the context of December 2013 Assembly elections, do you think NOTA, which was first

introduced in these elections, should be continued? Analyze its importance and relevance. (200

Words)

3. Write a note on the composition and duties of Joint Parliamentary Committee. Critically

examine its present style of functioning with examples. (200 Words)

4. ““School feeding can only help if the other major elements that are prerequisites for learning

are also in place.” Assess the performance of India’s mid-day meal scheme in improving the

overall quality of primary education in India. What are the ‘prerequisites’ mentioned in the

statement that are required in the Indian context? Elaborate. (250 Words)

5. What is ‘suspended animation’ in the Indian political parlance? How is it resolved most of the

times? Explain. (200 Words)

6. Kaam Maango Abhiyan (100 Words)

7. Explain the factors that led to the rapid industrialization of Japan post Second World War. (200

Words)

8. What factors, especially natural, political and economic, led to the rise of Singapore as an

economic powerhouse in the region? Analyze. (200 Words)

9. Reform Government Surveillance group (100 Words)

10. What implications does China’s Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ) have on India?

Comment. (200 Words)

11. Enumerate any ten important rights declared in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights

document. Do you think India has succeeded in granting all of its citizens these rights fully?

Examine. (250 Words)

12. “Unless we take into account what poverty means to the poor, measuring or reducing it will

continue to remain a game of deliberate obfuscation.” Comment. (200 Words)

13. ‘Limitation of Benefits (LoB)’ clause between Indian and Mauritius (50 Words)

14. What is Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA)? How is it beneficial to India?

Explain. (200 Words)

11, December 2013

1. What are the highlights of strategic partnership agreement between India and Afghanistan? Do

you think it is prudent for India to have a deep military ties with Afghanistan? Comment. (200

Words)

2. Do you think the Women’s Reservation Bill which is pending in the Parliament would benefit

poor and rural women from nonpolitical backgrounds? Why is there an opposition to the passing

of the bill from certain political parties? Comment. (200 Words)

3. Write a short note on the recent crisis in the Central African Republic. How was the international

reaction to this crisis? (200 Words)

4. Recently there was lot of concern regarding treatment meted out to South Asian Laborers by the

Qatari contractors and the inaction by the Qatar government in safeguarding immigrants rights.

What measures has India taken in this regard? Examine by highlighting the plight of immigrants

in Qatar. (200 Words)

5. What are the concerns of the Gulf Cooperation Council on the issue of recent Geneva agreement

between Iran and P5+1 countries? (150 Words)

Indian Express

5. Do you agree with the view that rapid urbanization in India would dilute casteism and caste a

major factor in elections? Justify. (200 Words)

Indian Express

6. “The domestic origins of India’s economic problems lie in the clash between democracy and

capitalism.” Comment. (200 Words)

Indian Express

12, December 2013

1. Do you think the recent judgement by the Supreme Court upholding the constitutionality of

Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code is a blow to the liberal values and human rights? Substantiate.

(200 Words)

2. What do you understand by the phrase ‘fiscal consolidation’? How is it done in India? Explain.

(200 Words)

3. Recently Uruguay legalized growing, selling and consuming Marijuana. What is the rationale

behind such a move? Do you think this measure is good for the health of the society? Critically

comment. (200 Words)

4. Write a note on the significance of Tejas, India’s Light Combat Aircraft. (150 Words)

5. What are the problems being faced by the Sugar industry in India? Explain in the light of recent

crisis involving farmers and sugar mill owners in the country. Do you think bail out packages are

remedy in such crises? Comment. (200 Words)

6. What are the important features of Forest Rights Act 2006? Bring out the criticisms against the

bill. (200 Words)

7. Explain the structure and mandate of UNICEF (United Nations Children’s Fund) (150 Words)

8. What is bionics? What are its benefits? Explain. (200 Words)

9. “India is expected to overtake the U.S. to become the country with the largest number of people

with dementia, posing a major challenge to the economy.” Explain how dementia affects the health

of economy and society. (200 Words)

Trivia

10. “2013 has been a year when America re-embraced diplomacy after a frustrating decade of war,

displaying a relentlessly pragmatic approach.” Critically analyze. (200 Words)

11. Write a critical note on the Election Commission’s implementation of its Model Code of

Conduct. What are the criticisms against it? Explain. (200 Words)

12. Perfluorotributylamine (50 Words)

13, December 2013

1. What are the main objectives of Direct Benefit Transfer program launched by the government

of India? What are the drawbacks of the program? Comment. (200 Words)

2. Do you think a strong Lokpal would curb corruption in India? Examine the features of draft

Lokpal bill that is pending in Rajya Sabha and comment on its effectiveness. (200 Words)

3. What do you understand by Diplomatic Immunity? Is it absolute? Comment.

Reference

4. What is most favored Nation (MFN) status? Examine the trade relations between India and

Pakistan in the light of MFN controversy? (200 Words)

Reference

Reference 1

Reference 2

5. What is civil society? Critically analyze their role in India. (200 Words)

6. Write a critical note on the scramble for Arctic resources and the associated conflicts in the

international arena. (200 Words)

Reference

7. What is Consumer Price Index (CPI) or Retail inflation? How is it measured in India? Explain.

(200 Words)

8. The Constitution (120th Amendment) Bill, 2013, and the Judicial Appointments Commission

Bill, 2013, seek to reform the appointment of High Court and Supreme Court judges by

establishing a Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC). What are the criticisms against the bill?

Comment. (200 Words)

Reference 1

Reference 2

9. “The trade agreement reached in Bali may have infused life into the WTO but its biggest battles

lie ahead.” Comment. (200 Words)

14, December 2013

1. Explain the importance of close defense cooperation between Maldives and India to both the

countries. (200 Words)

2. What were the circumstances that led to the Radcliffe Award and comment on its nature, mode

and effects of its implementation? (200 Words)

3. In your opinion what should be India’s primary concern in Afghanistan once US forces leave

the country? Examine how India should deal with these concerns. (200 Words)

4. What are the highlights of the recently approved the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Bill?

(150 Words)

5. What are the reasons behind skewed trade relations between India and China? Explain.

6. Define inflation. How does inflation affect an economy? Explain. (200 Words)

Indian Express

15, December 2013

1. Briefly explain the ideology of Maoists and their way of functioning. What are their

grievances? What are the steps taken by Government towards it? (250 words)

2. Enumerate the findings of the recently leaked draft of IPCC regarding the environment.

(100 words)

3. Elaborate the Judicial Appointments Commission Bill, 2013. What are the road-blocks and

oppositions being made, in its successful enactment? (200 words)

4. What is NATGRID? Explain how its provisions will strengthen India’s security structure? (250

words)

5. What is the bone of contention between the Sugar mills and Sugarcane farmers? What is the

solution to the current standoff between both in many Indian states? (200 words)

6. What is AFSPA? What are the implications of its imposition? (200 words)

7. Comment on the voting behavior of people in India. Do you think new parties can topple the

traditional strongholds of older parties? (250 words)

8. What are the major financial reforms and targets initiated by the government in the last

decade? (250 words)

9. Explain the functioning of SHGs. What are the channels through which they receive their

finance? (200 words)

10. “Water: a liter saved, is a liter earned!” Comment on the rising concerns and possible solutions

in regards to Water resources. (250 words)

16, December 2013

1. “The idea of developing shale oil and gas, mainly by the U.S. and Canada, has galvanized the

geopolitics of the energy market.” Comment. (200 Words)

Reference

2. What are the advantages of Bitocoin? Explain in the Indian context. (200 Words)

3. Differentiate between copyright and copyleft. (100 Words)

4. What are the key feature of electricity act 2003? In your opinion, what are the main problems

being faced by the power sector in India? Examine. (200 Words)

5. What is Bridge Loan? (50 Words)

(See the last word in the article)

Reference

6. Do you think that the recent protests against the government in Ukraine are the result of

geopolitical games played in the region rather than a genuine expression of discontent against the

functioning of the government? Critically comment.

7. What were the reasons behind Kosovo war and its political consequences? Explain briefly. (200

Words)

8. How is tsunami produced? Explain. (200 Words)

9. What is Carbon Sink? Give examples and explain their role. (200 Words)

10. “If we disregard [environmental] sustainability, whatever progress we have made in poverty

reduction or improvement of human development will just be erased due to climate change.”

Elaborate with examples. (200 Words)

11. “Jade Rabbit” rover (50 Words)

12. The Union Government has enacted the Unorganized Workers’ Social Security Act, 2008 for

the social security and welfare of unorganized workers which includes domestic workers. What

are the main features of the act? Do you think it adequately addresses the minimum wage issue for

domestic workers? Comment.

Reference

13. What do you understand by insider trading? Why this should be regulated? Explain in the light

of the recommendations of the Committee under the chairmanship of Justice N.K. Sodhi. (200

Words)

14. Critically comment on the issue of ‘rights’ associated with the recent judgement by the

Supreme Court in the case of Suresh Kumar Koushal and another v. NAZ Foundation and others.

(200 Words)

17, December 2013

1. The Prevention of Communal and Targeted Violence (Access to Justice and Reparations) Bill,

2011 was opposed by several states on several grounds. Why did many states oppose the bill? Do

you think legislation is a right approach to prevent communal clashes? Comment.(200 Words)

Reference 1

Reference 2

2. On what grounds Members of Parliament can be disqualified from the membership of the

Parliament? Explain. (200 Words)

3. What are the contentious issues involved in the Right of Citizens for Time Bound Delivery of

Goods and Services and Redressal of their Grievances Bill, 2011? Analyze. (200 Words)

Reference

4. Comment on the need for the speedy legislation of Whistleblower Protection Bill in India? What

measures has government taken in this regard? (200 Words)

5. In your opinion, why is classical music not so popular in India? Comment. (200 Words)

6. What are the important regional issues of concern between India and Iran? How both countries

does seeks to address these issues? Analyze. (200 Words)

Reference

8. Throw light on the contours of energy relations between India and Iran. (200 Words)

9. Write a critical note on the empowerment of female leaders in Latin American politics in last

10 years. Evaluate the performance of these female leaders in the region. (200 Words)

Note: Thanks for actively participating in this initiative. We see every day some people writing

exceptionally good answers, and some who initially wrote bad answers getting lot better. But all

those answers get lost under lots of comments and it becomes difficult to later search for good

answers.

So, we request few volunteers among you to every day copy and paste best answers in a Word

Document and send us to our email (insightsonindia@gmail.com) so that we post them next day

for the benefit of you and other readers, who can access them easily during exams and revise them

fast. We assure you that many questions would come in both Prelims and Mains from this initiative

(because every syllabus related issue is covered through these questions).

It can be done by 3 people. One aspirant can send it for two days, second aspirant on other two

days, likewise in a cyclic manner you can do this. We hope some of you would come forward and

help others. Thank you.

18, December 2013

1. How can gene therapy be used to treat Thalassemia and Sickle Cell anemia? Explain in layman’s

words. (200 Words)

Reference 1

Reference 2

2. How was North Korea born? Analyze the relation between North and South Koreas. (200

Words)

3. Why some Sections of the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act were recently in news?

Examine. (200 Words)

Reference

4. Has MGNREGA succeeded in its mission? Critically evaluate. (200 Words)

5. What are Autonomous District Councils in India? Critically analyze their role and performance

over the year. (200 Words)

Reference 1

Reference 2

6. Write a note on the organization, role and importance of Sahastra Seema Bal . (200 Words)

7. Compare and contrast India’s Rajya Sabha and UK’s House of Lords in their composition,

functions and importance to their respective countries. (200 Words)

8. Do we need ‘right to healthcare’ act or an overhaul of present healthcare system? Critically

analyze. (200 Words)

9.”In Afghanistan India is at risk of wasting opportunities to build on what has been one of its

greatest diplomatic successes in the past decade.” Critically examine. (200 Words)

10. What are the highlights of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012

(POCSO)? Write a critical note on its implementation. (200 Words)

11. Nirbhaya Fund (50 Words)

1. What are non-performing assets (NPAs)? What is the role of RBI in minimising them? (200

Words)

19, December 2013

1. What are the objectives of the proposed Land Boundary Agreement (LBA) Bill between

Bangladesh and India? Explain its significance and also throw light on controversy surrounding

the bill. (200 Words)

Reference 1

Reference 2

2. What is Vote on Account in India? When is it used? (150 Words)

Reference 1

3. Differentiate between adjournament, dissolution and prorogration of the Lok Sabha. (150

Words)

Reference

4. It is said that low earning from employment, rather than unemployment, is the main source of

poverty in India. Do you concur with this view? Comment. (200 Words)

5. Should political parties be brought under the ambit of RTI act? Explain why. (200 Words)

6. What is current account deficit (CAD)? How does it affect the economy? (200 Words)

7. Assess the impact of domestic factors on the foreign policy of India with respect to Sri Lanka.

(200 Words)

8. What is repo rate, Reverse repo rate and cash reserve ratio (CRR)? Why does RBI keeps

changing them? (200 Words)

(Yesterday ran into trouble by giving link to Business Standard website – they sent a mail asking

us to remove the link (vote-on-account one). It’s removed now. I will provide Reference links only

to government and international sources. Don’t understand why providing a free link is a violation!

When it sends loads of traffic to their site. Any lawyers?)

20, December 2013

1. What are the eligibility conditions put forth by the Election Commission for a political party to

get a State and National Party status? (150 Words)

2. How are the Chairpersons of NHRC and State Human Rights Commission are appointed?

Explain the procedure to impeach them. (200 Words)

3. Highlight the important features of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Bill, 2013. (200

Words)

4. What is a Cabinet Committee? What is the composition and functions of Cabinet Committee

on Economic Affairs (CCEA)? (200 Words)

Arthapedia

5. Comment on the role of civil society in influencing the decisions of the State. Is it good for

democracy? Analyze. (200 Words)

6. What do you understand by Free Trade Agreement? Do you think bilateral and regional trade

agreements are diminishing the role of multilateral fora? Discuss. (200 Words)

7. Write a critical note on the threat of drug trafficking from India’s neighboring countries in its

borders. What measures has government taken to deal with this threat? (200 Words)

8. “Unilateralism has remained the leitmotif of U.S. foreign policy, regardless of whether a

Democrat or a Republican is in the White House.” Comment. (200 Words)

9. Explain the significance of United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) in

recent times citing few important examples. (200 Words)

10. Analyze the relation of India with its neighbors in the security issues. What are the major

challenges it is facing vis-à-vis its neighbors. (200 Words)

Note: From tomorrow questions will be posted in the morning (before 11 am)

21, December 2013

1. Mahamaham festival (100 Words)

Reference

2. What are quasi-judicial bodies and how different are they from judicial bodies such as High

courts? Do you think that the increased number of these bodies have diminished the function,

structure and importance of courts? Discuss. (200 Words)

Reference 1

Reference 2

3. Analyze the possible impact of the BCIM corridor project on the regional economic growth.

(200 Words)

4. Critically evaluate the role and relevance of UN peacekeeping missions in Africa.

5. What are the criticisms against the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention,

Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013? Explain (200 Words)

6. Apart from legislations, in your opinion how can corruption be curbed in India? Suggest

concrete measures. (200 Words)

7. Examine the challenges being faced by India in conserving its tigers in the wild. What measures

has it taken to conserve and perpetuate tiger population in the country? (200 Words)

8. What are inflation indexed savings bonds? Why have they been introduced in India? Explain

their benefits. (200 Words)

Reference

For more: firstpost.com/investing/can-you-afford-to-ignore-rbis-retail-inflation-indexed-bonds-

1298801.html

22, December 2013

1. Write a brief history of Naxalism highlighting the causes for its birth and spread. (200 Word)

2. BPT-5204 or Samba Masuri (50 Words)

3. What is cryogenic engine? Why is it important for India’s space mission? (200 Words)

4. Why Kishenganga hydro-electric project was in dispute recently? Do you think that there is a

need to revise Indus Water Treaty? Comment. (200 Words)

5. Prirazlomnoye platform (50 Words)

6. What are direct and indirect taxes? Give examples. (150 Words)

7. Was democracy a victim in the Arab Spring revolutions? Critically comment. (200 Words)

23, December 2013

1. What are biomaterials? Explain their uses. (200 Words)

2. What mechanisms have been put in place by India and Nepal to curb illegal trade and improve

security in their borders? Have they been successful? Examine. (200 Words)

3. Write a critical note on the contribution of Muhammad Ali Jinnah to India’s freedom struggle.

(200 Words)

4. What is Fed Tapering? How does it impact markets if it is carried out? (200 Words)

5. Critically analyze the importance of dialogue and constant engagement between India and

Pakistan to resolve bilateral issues. (200 Words)

6. Analyze the factors that have made India a hub for car manufacturing in the region. (200 Words)

7. “In India the new understanding seems to be that to spur economic growth, private investment

has to be supported.” Comment on the statement in the light of recent fiscal and monetary policy

measures announced in India. (200 Words)

24, December 2013

1. Write a note on Mahadayi River Water Dispute. (200 Words)

2. AV Magnivisualizer, (50 Words)

3. Write a note on the strategic importance of Agni missiles. (200 Words)

4. Post-Kyoto protocol, in your opinion, on what issues should new climate change agreement

focus on? Discuss. (200 Words)

Wikipedia

Wikipedia

5.”The Indian Supreme Court has transformed into a populist, legislative court of governance. ”

Do you agree with the statement? Comment. (200 Words)

6. “If the free movement of people has become synonymous with insecurity and anxiety, it should

focus not on borders policy, but on the basics of our economy.” Analyze the statement in the light

of recent immigration related issues within European Union community. (200 Words)

7. Write a critical note on the importance and on the problems facing teacher education in India.

(200 Words)

8. Why is India having low child-sex ratios decade after decades? Examine the reasons and offer

solutions to stop this trend. (200 Words)

25, December 2013

1. What is cross-border terrorism? Explain the measures taken by India to reduce it along its

borders with Pakistan. Do you think these measures have reduced cross-border terrorism?

Examine. (200 Words)

2. Write a critical note on the schemes introduced by the government of India to make toilets and

clean drinking accessible to rural masses in the country. (200 Words)

3. What is a slum? According to you which are the factors that contribute for the growth of slums

in India? Examine. (200 Words)

4. In your opinion why does Indian universities do not figure in the top in global rankings of

universities? Comment. (200 Words)

5. Analyze recent political developments in Nepal and their impact on India-Nepal relations.

(200 Words)

6. How is typhoon caused? (150 Words)

7. The Javan rhino (50 Words)

8. Write a critical note on pension reforms in India highlighting its prospects and problems. (200

Words)

9. How does the Bengaluru-Mumbai Economic Corridor benefit both cities and the regions

between them? Analyze. (200 Words)

10. What is the difference between wholesale price index (WPI) and Consumer price index

(CPI)? Explain (200 Words)

11. What measures has RBI introduced to encourage savings rate in the country? (200 Words)

26, December 2013

1. What is cyber terrorism? What mechanisms are in place in India to deal with the threat of

cyber terrorism? (200 Words)

2. What are the main reasons behind feminization of migration? Comment on the problems being

faced by migrating women and the response of the government in dealing with such problems.

(200 Words)

3. Write a note on the contribution of Indian diaspora to the economies of African countries.

4. Analyze the roles that India can play on the global stage as an aspiring superpower. Do you

think India should be more assertive in its foreign policy? Why? (200 Words)

5. What is clinical trial? Why clinical trials in India have been controversial? In the light of

recent Supreme Court judgment regarding clinical trials, comment on the need for suitable policy

measures to address the issue. (200 Words)

6. “Education can be an instrument of change. But nation-building would require reform in

education; unlearning of undemocratic values is as important as the learning of democratic ones.

” Comment. (200 Words)

7. “The new law in Uruguay legalizing cannabis use is, above all, pragmatic rather than

ideological.” DO you agree with this view? Comment. (200 Words)

27, December 2013

1. Define honesty and integrity. Explain the importance of these qualities for a public servant.

(200 Words)

2. What is the composition and functions of proposed Judicial Appointments Commission

(JAC)? Explain why it is being introduced. (200 Words)

3. Microsoft ‘Guardian’ (50 Words)

4. What are the objectives of NRLM? (200 Words)

5. What is census? What is the rationale behind conducting the socio-economic caste census?

(200 Words)

6. Critically analyze how policies of Great Leap Forward and Cultural Revolution in China

affected its society and polity. (200 Words)

7. Paullins maps (50 Words)

28, December 2013

1. Differentiate between economic growth and development. Why do you think India lags behind

in development despite good economic growth? Comment (200 Words)

2. Explain the importance of ports to the Indian economy and throw light on the problems being

faced by them.

3. In your opinion why is it important to save Western Ghats? What measures would you

propose to bring a balance between ecology and livelihood in these ecologically sensitive

regions? (200 Words)

4. What is the difference between Geo-synchronous and geostationary orbit? What are the

applications of Geo-synchronous satellites? (200 Words)

5. Write a note on the contribution of Parsi community to the industrial sector in India. (200

Words)

6. With suitable examples provide a broad outline of the impact of ethnic conflicts on the African

polity. (200 Words)

7. Beidou satellite network (50 Words)

8. Examine how India can use its space technology to forge strategic relationships with its

neighboring countries. (200 Words)

9. “Focus on expanding the higher education sector to provide access has led to a situation where

research and scholarship have been neglected.” Comment. (200 Words)

10. What is mutual fund? (100 Words)

11. What are the limitations of National Pension Scheme? How these limitations can be

addressed? (200 Words)

29, December 2013

1. What steps or policy measures has government of India taken to help disabled persons in

leading a normal life? Critically examine. (200 Words)

2. Write a note on the contribution of Kashmir to Buddhist art and Hindu literature. (200 Words)

3. What is Gross Enrollment Ratio? What factors determine increase or decrease of this ratio in

India? Analyze. (200 Words)

4. What measures would you suggest to Railway authorities in India to improve safety measures

in trains? Comment. (200 Words)

5. What is Forex reserve in India? What is its composition? Explain the factors that determine its

quantity. (200 Words)

6. What do you understand by the term spectrum in ‘spectrum auction’? Why does government

control it? (200 Words)

30, December 2013

1. What is an Ecologically Sensitive Zone? Name such zones in India and the threats they are

facing. (200 Words)

2. What is the difference between gas-based and coal based thermal power plants? Highlight the

advantages of each plants. (200 Words)

3. Makarvilakku festival (50 Words)

4. How did Communism spread to China? Explain how it affected China during and after the

World War-II? (200 Words)

5. What are the important provisions of the ILO’s Domestic Workers Convention 2011 (189)? In

your opinion, does India truly adheres to these provisions? Comment. (200 Words)

6. Critically analyze the recent trends of employment and growth in the field of Information

Technology in India. (200 Words)

7. What is quantitative easing (QE)? When and why QE does is done? (200 Words)

8. What is Globalization? Critically comment on its influence of the youth of India. (200 Words)

31, December 2013

1. What do you understand by resource mobilization? How important is it for the economy? (200

Words)

2. What is judicial activism? Do you think it is good for democracy? Justify. (200 Words)

3. Write a note on climatological seasons of India. (200 Words)

4. What is biosafety? How has Indian government addressed this issue? (200 Words)

5. Critically examine the problems that are being faced in the implementation of the Right to

Education (RTE) Act. (200 Words)

6. What is insurgency? Critically analyze the effectiveness of insurgencies as strategy to achieve

political goals in India. How has India traditionally dealt with such insurgencies? (200 Words)

7. “The terrorist insurgency in Russia has its roots in wars fought between separatist Chechen

rebels and Russian forces.” Comment. (200 Words)

Reference - BBC

8. Critically assess the democratic transition process that is taking place in Myanmar. (200

Words)

9. “To ensure peace, South Sudan is desperately in need of a politically mediated settlement,

chances of which will begin to diminish once the conflict is reduced to ethnic one-upmanship.”

Elaborate. (200 Words)

10. “A stable new government would be positive for the economy.” Explain how? (200 Words)

11. What are the objections raised by Pakistan to India’s hydroelectric projects in Kashmir? How

has India addressed these objections? (200 Words)