1. Define, according to your lights, the etymology of the words ‘Asam’ and Ásamiya’. (Answer in 150 words) 10
2. “Assam is a living ethnological museum with its diversity of ethnic communities and their cultural patterns.” Illustrate the statement. (Answer in 150 words) 10
3. “Assamese farmers are organic by default.” Elaborate the statement. (Answer in 150 words) 10
4. Discuss the importance and scope of agro-based industries in Assam. (Answer in 150 words) 10
5. Give an outline of the ‘Jibondinga Scheme’ of the Government of Assam. (Answer in 150 words) 10
6. Evaluate the long-term effects of the reforms of Kalicharan Brahma on the Bodo society. (Answer in 150 words) 10
7. Draw a pen-picture of Dr. Bhupen Hazarika as a cultural icon of the twentieth century Assam. (Answer in 150 words) 10
8. Write a brief account of the literary achievement of any one of the following authors: (Answer in 150 words) 10
(a) Birendra Kumar Bhattacharya
(b) Indira Goswami (Mamoni Raisom Goswami)
(c) Nilmani Phookan
9. Discuss the steps taken by the Government of Assam in the realm of gender equality in recent years. (Answer in 150 words) 10
10. Give a brief account of the traditions of folk and classical dances of Assam (Answer in 150 words) 10
11. Give a thumbnail sketch of the early history of Kamarupa with special reference to the Varman dynasty. (Answer in 250 words) 15
12. Write a brief essay on the Asamiya Bhuranjiliterature of Assam (Answer in 250 words) 15
13. Discuss the landmarks of the freedom struggle in Assam from 1921 to 1947. (Answer in 250 words) 15
14. Illustrate how physiography of a region affects economic activities with reference to the physiographic units of Assam. (Answer in 250 words) 15
15. “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 Assam in this regard (Answer in 250 words) 15
16. Discuss the salient features of the renewed Swami Vivekananda Assam Youth Empowerment Scheme’. (Answer in 250 words) 15
17. Critically discuss the constitution and functioning of the Assam State Human Rights Commission. (Answer in 250 words) 15
18. Suggest measures to make tourism a key driver of economic growth in Assam. (Answer in 250 words) 15
19. Discuss the genesis and working practices of the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution of India. (Answer in 250 words) 15
20. Discuss the importance of tea industry in the economy of Assam. (Answer in 250 words) 15
1. Law and Ethics are two tools for controlling human conduct. Explain with examples how the two differ in their approaches. (Answer in 150 words) 10
2. “Family as an institution in inculcating values seems to set deteriorated in the recent past. Do you agree? Justify your stand. (Answer in 150 words) 10
3. Discuss the importance of the values of empathy, tolerance and compassion for a bureaucrat in his/her attitude towards weaker sections of society. Do such values contradict the attitude of impartiality and non-partisanship expected from a civil servant? (Answer in 150 words) 10
4. Civil services today work in an environment beset with numerous problems and challenges. What is the role of emotional intelligence in guiding administrators to handle these situations? (Answer in 150 words) 10
5. “You must be the change you want to see in the world”, Mahatma Gandhi once said. Discuss the role of administrators as initiators of positive change in society within the regulatory framework of administration, with one’s conscience as a source of ethical guidance. (Answer in 150 words) 10
6. What do you understand by ‘probity’ in governance? Examine the ways in which probity and integrity in governance can check misuse of power and enhance legitimacy of authority. (Answer in 150 words) 10
7. Examine the extent to which corruption possesses a challenge to the development of a proper work culture and acts as a hindrance to delivery of public services. (Answer in 150 words) 10
8. Is ‘ethics’ and ‘effective leadership” cause and effect relationship? Enlist some requirements of leaders which will help them to capitalize on their ability to influence ethical conduct. (Answer in 150 words) 10
9. How are self-accountability and external accountability related to achievement of ethical standards in public administration? (Answer in 150 words) 10
10. What do you understand by the term voice of conscience? How is it different from ‘crisis of conscience? Narrate one incidence to show ‘crisis of conscience’. (Answer in 150 words) 10
11. Differentiate between personal ethics and professional ethics. Is there a scope for conflict between them in the conduct of professional duties? (Answer in 150 words) 10
12. How can an impartial and non-partisan public service help in proper administration of a democratic government? Give your own reasons to substantiate your answer. (Answer in 150 words) 10
13. Distinguish between code of ethics’ and ‘code of conduct’ with suitable examples. (Answer in 150 words) (Answer in 150 words) 10
Section-B
14. Suppose there is a flute and three children are claiming it: (Answer in 250 words) 20
Child 1: 1 have worked hard to make the flute, so I should get it.
Child 2: I can play flute very well, so I should get it. Only I can make a complete use of it.
Child 3: Both the children are rich and I am poor, so I should get the flute. Other two have other means of enjoying life.
(a) Who according to you should get the flute?
(b) What are the ethical issues in this matter?
(c) What role does justice play in this situation?
15. You are head of irrigation department in a district and entrusted with the responsibilities to construct and maintain canals in the district. District is drought prone and irrigation activities are very scanty. The reputation of the department is also dented by a scam. Few employees were caught red-handed while taking bribe. (Answer in 250 words) 20
(a) What steps would you take for the welfare of the district?
(b) Give some suggestions by which reputation and prestige of the department can be restored.
16. A young dalit man has recently migrated to a city from his village in search of better employment opportunities. The man is very poor and he does not have any identity proof because of which he is not getting any place on rent and employers are also not giving him any job. He went to a nearby municipal committee office and shared his problem. Out of four officials whom he met, the first official was apathetic, the second official was sympathetic, the third official was empathetic and the fourth official was compassionate. (Answer in 250 words) 20
(a) How will you judge the attitude of these four officials?
(b) Why are empathy and compassion important aptitudes for civil servants in India?
17. Increased national wealth need not mean increase in the per capita income of all the citizens. Equitable distribution of wealth is still a distant dream in India. There are pockets of minority wealthy families to whom concentration of wealth occur. Majority of people are still without basic necessities of life.
Critically analyse the above statement in the context of contemporary Indian economy and society. (Answer in 250 words) 20
18. As a civil servant, you are incharge of a government housing construction project which aims at providing houses to weaker sections of the society. However, such construction will result in clearing forest area which is domicile of endangered species. There is no alternate space nearby. How do you respond to such a situation in the context of global warming and sustainable development? (Answer in 250 words) 20
19. “If people are good only because they fear punishment and hope for reward, then we are a sorry lot indeed.” (Albert Einstein)
Examine the essence, determinants and consequences of ethics in human actions in the light of the above statement. (Answer in 250 words) 20
1. What is fiscal deficit? What is the target of fiscal deficit as per the FRBM Act? Why are there demands for having flexibility in FRBM fiscal deficit target in
the recent post-COVID situation? (Answer in 150 words) 4+2+4=10
2. Explain the pros and cons of development of railway stations through joint ventures under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. What may be the
possible reactions of the general public? (Answer in 150 words) 5+5=10
3. What are the possible effects of large-scale hydroelectric projects in environment? Write a critical note on the possibilities of having medium and
small-scale projects in place of large-scale ones. (Answer in 150 words) 5+5=10
4. Use of various social media has become extremely popular in the present era. Explain how its misuse may be a threat to the national security of India and
also how new legislations can help in tackling these issues. (Answer in 150 words) 5+5=10
5. In COP26 held at Glasgow, UK, India has committed to achieve the target of Net Zero Emission’ by 2070. What are the implications of the commitment?
Discuss. (Answer in 150 words) 10
6. Discuss analytically the hydrometeorological, geological biological and technological hazards in the context of Assam. (Answer in 150 words) 10
7. Give the reasons for increase of educated unemployment in India. What may be the short-term and long-term measures to reduce the problem?
(Answer in 150 words) 5+5=10
8. How is the budgetary allocation of the Government of India in the education sector changing? Explain how this change may affect especially the primary
education. (Answer in 150 words) 5+5=10
9. What is the aim of the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan’ and what are the main pillars of this vision plan? (Answer in 150 words) 5+5=10
10. What is nano-science and technology? Give an account as to how it can be used in medical and pharmaceutical sectors. (Answer in 150 words) 5+5=10
11. What is the Minimum Support Price (MSP) in the context of agriculture? Explain its role in the Green Revolution Critically examine the existing system of MSP. (Answer in 250 words) 5+5+5=15
12. Distinguish between FDI and FII. Discuss their relative merits and demerits as sources of external investment for a country’s economic growth. (Answer in 250 words) 5+10=15
13. In the context of Assam, provide clear examples of physical, social, economic and ecological factors of disaster vulnerability. Do you notice any emerging trend in disaster impact, hazards and vulnerability patterns? (Answer in 250 words) 10+5=15
14. What are the biodiversity hot spots and what is their importance? Mention some biodiversity hotspots in India and explain the measures to be taken to preserve them. Answer in 250 words) 5+10=15
15. Though paddy is major crop in India it seems its production is affected either by drought or by flood. What are the possible steps to tackle these problems especially in North-East India? (Answer in 250 words) 15
16. What are the reasons for failure of several public sector enterprises in India? Explain the advantages and disadvantages of privatizing such enterprises (Answer in 250 words) 5+10=15
17. What are the points to be looked into in the preparation of management of a large earthquake? Describe the long term measures to be taken in managing floods in North-East India. (Answer in 250 words) 8+7=15
18. What is Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)? Why is it imperative to carry out an EIA of any large industrial infrastructure project? (Answer in 250 words) 5+10=15
19. Name the organizations that constitute the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPE). What are the roles played by the CAPF in ensuring security of the country (Answer in 250 words) 5+10=15
20. What are the key elements of ‘inclusive growth’? Why is inclusive growth important in the context of sustainable development? (Answer in 250 words) 5+10=15
1. Write a note on preparedness in India with special reference to Assam to realise the UNDP Sustainable Development Goal 2. (Answer in 150 words) 10
2. “In the Indian parliamentary system, the office of the President is like a ‘pivot’ that joins the two wheels, namely the legislature and the executive.” Discuss. (Answer in 150 words) 10
3. Discuss why Article 32 of the Constitution of India is regarded as the “Heart and Soul of the Constitution”. (Answer in 150 words) 10
4. Do you think ‘cooperative federalism’ exists in India? Substantiate your answer. (Answer in 150 words) 10
5. “The future of India lies in the villages.” Explain the statement in the light of the role of Panchayati Raj Institutions in empowering rural communities. (Answer in 150 words) 10
6. Discuss the role of civil society as the guardian of human rights and obligations. (Answer in 150 words) 10
7. “A nuclear war cannot be won and must never be fought.” Explain. (Answer in 150 words) 10
8. Explain the procedure to amend the Constitution of India highlighting the significance of the basic structure doctrine. (Answer in 150 words) 10
9. Discuss the powers of the Speaker under the Rules for the Conduct of Business in the Parliament. (Answer in 150 words) 10
10. The Vine Declaration is a landmark in the history of human rights. Elucidate. (Answer in 150 words) 10
11. “Correlation of good governance with democracy has meant the dispersion of power amongst the governed instead of centralization in the elites.” Comment. (Answer in 250 words) 15
12. “E-governance transforms not only the ways in which public services are delivered but also the fundamental relationship between the government and the citizen.” Explain. (Answer in 250 words) 15
13. “The National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) launched by the Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India has been successful in creating efficient and effective institutional platforms of the rural poor.” Comment. (Answer in 250 words) 15
14. Discuss the administrative relations between the Union and the States. (Answer in 250 words) 15
15. “India and the USA are natural allies.” Discuss the strategic reasons of India’s closeness to the United States of America. (Answer in 250 words) 15
16. Discuss the role of civil service in realizing the true objectives of a democracy. Substantiate your arguments in the light of the functioning of the Indian
Civil Service. (Answer in 250 words) 15
17. What are the core provisions of the Representation of the People Act? Discuss the amendments of the Act as on date. (Answer in 250 words) 15
18. “The Indian Parliament system, though patterned on the British model, consists of its own unique features, drawn mainly from the non-British sources.” Elucidate in the context of difference between the parliamentary system of India with that of the British. (Answer in 250 words) 15
19. Critically analyse the problems and prospects of microfinance programme as a tool for empowerment and eradication of poverty with special reference to Assam. (Answer in 250 words) 15
20. Discuss, in detail, how judicial decisions shape Indian politics with special reference to the latest judgements of the Supreme court of India. (Answer in 250 words) 15
1. Highlight the major themes of the prehistoric paintings of India. (Answer in 150 words) 10 marks
2. Write a note on the origins, evolution and salient features of the Sattriya Dance. (Answer in 150 words) 10 marks
3. Explain briefly the social, economic and cultural background of the emergence of Indian nationalism in the 19th century. (Answer in 150 words) 10 marks
4. Highlight the underlying geographical factors that influence the distribution of India’s population. (Answer in 150 words) 10 marks
5. Assess the role of the Government of India in biodiversity protection. (Answer in 150 words) 10 marks
6. Explain the significance of the Charter Act of 1833 in the history of colonial India (Answer in 150 words) 10 marks
7. Highlight the ideas of nationalism of Gandhi and Tagore in the context of Indian freedom struggle. (Answer in 150 words) 10 marks
8. Write a note on the feminization of labour in India. (Answer in 150 words) 10 marks
9. Examine the impact of globalization on Indian tribal societies. (Answer in 150 words) 10 marks
10. Discuss the significance of India’s demographic dividend in her economic development. (Answer in 150 words) 10 marks
11. Illustrate with suitable examples how syncretism became a part of Indian architecture during the medieval period. (Answer in 250 words) 15 marks
12 Give a critical account of the economic impact of partition of India on Assam. (Answer in 250 words) 15 marks
13. Natural resource rich belts in India are not always the one with the highest levels of economic development. Explain. (Answer in 250 words) 15 marks
14. What are extreme precipitation events and what are their effects? Why are such events occurring more frequently in recent times? (Answer in 250 words) 15 marks
15. Do you agree with the view that the interlinking of rivers can address the water issues in India? Give reasons for your answer. (Answer in 250 words) 15 marks
16. Examine the challenges faced by the bell-metal industry in Assam. What measures do you suggest to make it a vibrant economic sector? (Answer in 250 words) 15 marks
17. Discuss the challenges in the process of integration of the Princely States with India after independence and evaluate the roll of Sardar Patel in it. (Answer in 250 words) 15 marks
18. Highlight the factors that led to the rise of regionalism in Indian polity. Critically examine its role in strengthening Indian federalism. (Answer in 250 words) 15 marks
19. Smart cities in India cannot sustain without smart villages. Discuss. (Answer in 250 words) 15 marks
20. “The Neo-Vaishnavite Movement played the most significant role in laying the foundation of a broader society in the Brahmaputra Valley of Assam.” Elucidate this statement. (Answer in 250 words) 15 marks
APSC Mains Paper 1 ( Essay ) – Syllabus, Important Topics & Tips
As per the new APSC Mains Exam rule, the essay paper of 250 marks to be completed in 3 hours, plays a very important role. To be written in the medium or language of the candidate’s choice. Candidate is required to write an essay on a specific topic. The choice of subjects will be given.
Essay: 1 Essay of 250 marks
Time: 3 Hours
Going by the word length of essays to be written in (i) English paper of the older format of APSC Mains exam, and (ii) UPSC Mains Exam’s Essay paper, this essay should be written at about 2000 to 2500 words.
APSC Mains General Studies V (GS5) Paper Previous Questions from History, Geography, Polity, Economy, Environment of Assam sections
APSC Mains 2018 Questions
Q1 (c) Discuss the composition and important features of Panchyati Raj system in Assam under the 73rd Amendment Act of the Constitution. What is the position of women under this Act? 10+6=16
Question from our APSC Mains General Studies (GS) Test Series Test 1: Q1(ii) & Q3(ii) (16 Marks)
Q4 (xxvii) What does the Clause 6 of the Assam Accord deal with? 2
Q2 (h) Where are the bell-metal industries in Assam located? What are the problems faced by the industry in the State? 4+4=8
Q3 (g) What are the problems and prospects of tourism industry of Assam? 5
Q1 (k) Discuss how water harvesting system can be made effective to address the problem of depleting groundwater resources in urban areas. 16Q2 (d) What is an agro-climatic zone? Describe the agro-climatic zones of Assam. 2+6=8
Q1 (h) In the context of poor quality of human life in India, discuss the objectives and strategy of the Smart City Programme. 16Q1 (o) Discuss the features of Citizenship Amendment Bill, 2016. Write about the concerns of the people of Assam over the said Bill. 8+8=16
Q4 (xxiii) Write the name of the editors of daily newspapers, The Assam Tribune and the Dainik Asam. 2
Q3 (c) Give a brief description of the social life of Rabha Tribe of Assam. 5
Q4 (xxi) In which year was the first Assamese newspaper Arunodoi published? Who was the editor of the first edition? 2
APSC Mains 2016 Questions
Write the influence of climate on the economy of the population of Assam 5
Mention two threats faced by the small tea growers of Assam 2
Mention two commercial crops of Assam other than tea 2
Assam is not only rich in natural resources but also in cultural life and socioeconic setup which are prevalent among the different ethnic groups. Examine it with reference to the various ethnic groups of the State 16
Name the countries having international boundary with the state of North-East India 2 Give two reasons why Assam is lagging behind in blue revolution in spite of having innumerable wetlands 2 How has climate change affected the production of tea in Assam 2 Name the tropical rain forest of Assam and state its characteristics 2 What is the decadal growth of population in Assam during the decade 2001-2011 2 What to the letters CTC stand for when used in relation to tea 2 Name the bird sanctuary of Assam and in which district it is located 2
Mention varous skill development projects undertaken by the Govt of Assam. Do you think that Skill Development Mission 2022 will cover all the targeted individuals ( especially abled persons) to be trained? Comment. 16
Discuss the recent population policy framed by Assam Govt. Is it helpful for the development of the State? Give reasons. 8
Short note on ‘Gamosa’ and it’s significance in Assamese society. 8
Write about the significance of ‘Japi’ in Assamese society. 5
Write briefly about the position of women in medieval Assamese society. 5
APSC Mains 2015 Questions
Objectives of 12th Five Year Plan of Assam? Discuss progress of the plan over first three years 16
Discuss the Structure and functioning of rural banking in Assam. How can SHG fill the need of microfinance at grassroot level in rural areas 16
Brief about decentralised planning in Assam and it’s advantages? 8
Main features of Rooftop Solar Program ? highlight chances of it’s success/failure in context of Assam? 8
name tow head under revenue receipts of Assam Govt 2
two projects implemented under NEC in Assam 2
Two main cash crops of Assam? 2
IMR and MMR in Assam 2
Distinguish b/w wasteland and wetland? Measures by Central and state govt to preserve wetlands in Assam 16
Discuss circumstances leading to estd of Bodoland Territorial Council. Implication of setting up such council for other ethnic communities of Assam? 8
Literacy rate & density of Assam, as per Census 2011 2
Main recommendation of Cabinet Mission Plan? Describe Assam’s fight against grouping system 16
Discuss status and role of ‘Namghar’ in social and cultural life of Assam 8
When province of Eastern Bengal and Assam created? Capital? 2
APSC Mains 2014 Questions
Functions of North East Council NEC 5
problems of dev of tourism industry in North East India? 8
circumstances leading to Treaty of Yandabo? Why it’s a major landmark in Assam history? 16
brief account of ‘Namghar’ and ‘Manikut’ of Assamese society 8
Effect of british rule in Assam 5
APSC Mains 2002 Questions
NABARD and it’s activities in Assam 3
Population growth of Assam 1991-2001 2
Essay on main ethnic groups in Assam 10
Status of satryia dance 2
Karbi-Langpi Hydel project 2
Namari Wildlife Sanctuary 2
APSC Mains 1999 Questions
Facts 8th Plan & 9th Plan, Approved outley for Assam’s annual plan for 1999-2000 5
Inspite of fertile soil and monsoon climate, Assam Agri not developed- Elicidate, Examine the agri situation of Assam & suggest measures 7
Immigration in Assam – effects – Examine 8
Famous Assam literary person – contribution 5
Salient features of Assam Accord? What extent are these implemented 7
APSC Mains Paper IV – General Studies III (GS-III) Old Questions from Technology, Biodiversity & Environment sections
Previous years Questions asked in APSC Mains GS Paper from Technology, Biodiversity & Environment sections, which are now part of the APSC Mains Paper IV – General Studies (GS) III paper are discussed below.
Questions from APSC Mains 2018 GS Paper
Q1 (m) Write about the success that India achieved in the field of Space Science and Technology. In what way has this technology helped India in its socio-economic development? 16
Question from our APSC Mains Answer Writing Practice Questions – Set 21: Q2 (16 Marks)
Q1 (n) What do you understand by global warming? Discuss the main causes of global warming and suggest measures for diminishing its effects on the earth. 4+6+6=16
Question from our APSC Mains Answer Writing Practice Questions – Set 27: Q1 (16 Marks)
Q4 (x) How does a solar eclipse occur? 2
Q4 (xxx) Who is popularly known as ‘Missile Man of India’? 2
Q4 (xxxi) What does the solar system consist of? 2
Q4 (xxxii) Define Ozone depletion. 2
Q1 (h) In the context of poor quality of human life in India, discuss the objectives and strategy of the Smart City Programme. 16
Q3 (f) Write the objectives of the Ganga Action Plan. Do you think that the objectives of the plan have been fulfilled? 2+3=5
Q4 (vi) What is a Soil Health Card? 2
Questions from APSC Mains 2016 GS Paper
Give an overview of Space Programme in India. Write briefly about the major space centers of India 16 Write about acid rain and it’s impact on environment 5 What are renewable and non-renewable source of energy? Give examples 5 What is Ozone-layer depletion 2 What are carbon nanotubes 2
What are Sustainable Development Goals initiated by UN General Assembly? What are its goals? Explain briefly? 16
What are the main factors for the degradation of forest in India? Write briefly about the ‘Ecomark’ scheme and it’s objectives. 16
Questions from APSC Mains 2015 GS Paper
Effects of Zika virus? India’s situation? Measures needed
16
Distinguish b/w wasteland and wetland? Measures by Central and state govt to preserve wetlands in Assam
16
What is Paris Agreement on Climate change ? Critically examine main highlights of the Agreement? It’s chances of success?
8
DNA Fingerprinting? Eg of it’s application
5
First Indian remote sensing Satellite & date of launch
2
how heat energy comes from sun to earth
2
Cryogenic engine?
2
LED bulb?
2
What is ‘Standard Positioning System’ and ‘Precision Posisitonng system’ in GPS?
2
LASER ?
2
Carbon trading
2
Questions from APSC Mains 2014 GS Paper
Decentralised planning? It’s advantages?
16
Role played by Internet in India in digital banking and Computer Aided Learning
16
examine problem of river pollution in India with focus on Ganga? Suggest measures to control it?
16
Biomass? Significance of biomass as non-conventional source of energy in India?
8
Geostationary satellite? first Geostationary satellite by ISRO and it’s achievement? National science day is related with discovery of ?
8
Role of Remote Sensing in development of natural resources in India
5
Insulin? Why important for health?
5
Two renewable energy sources of India
2
Organic farming?
2
Biodiesel?
2
Difference b/n CNG and PLG
2
Largest indigenously-built warship of India and where constructed?
2
Nobel prize 2014 physics?
2
India declared from which Virus in March 2014
2
H1N1?
2
Global Warming?
2
Questions from APSC Mains 2002 GS Paper
Telephone Internet? 2
ISO 9000? 2
e-commerce 2
What are Ozone depleting substances 2
function of state pollution control board 2
AIDS? How to prevent?
Fill-in-blank 5
Rain-water harvesting? 2
Measures needed for bio-diversity conservation?
How can trend of global warming be reversed?
Questions from APSC Mains 1999 GS Paper
Internet service? How it revolutionised communication, Features of INSAT series 3
Meaning – Ballistics, Neuralgia, Antibody, Manometer, Hovercraft, Zeta 9
APSC Mains Paper III – General Studies II (GS-II) Old Questions from Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice & IR sections
Previous years Questions asked in APSC Mains GS Paper from Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice & IR sections, which are now part of the APSC Mains Paper III – General Studies (GS) II paper are discussed below.
Questions from APSC Mains 2018 GS Paper
Q1 (b) Discuss the process of formation of the Union Council of Ministers. Discuss the powers and functions of the Union Council of Ministers. 6+10=16
Q1 (c) Discuss the composition and important features of Panchyati Raj system in Assam under the 73rd Amendment Act of the Constitution. What is the position of women under this Act? 10+6=16
Question from our APSC Mains General Studies (GS) Test Series Test 1: Q1(ii) & Q3(ii) (16 Marks)
Q1 (d) How is the Finance Commission of India constituted? Discuss the terms of reference of the 15th Finance Commission of India. 6+10=16
Question from our APSC Mains General Studies (GS) Test Series Test 8: Q1(i) (6 Marks)
Q1 (e) What is social justice? What are its different dimensions? What is its importance in Indian context? 4+6+6=16
Q1 (g) What are the main features of the Directive Principles of State Policy? Discuss the relevance of the Policy for the socio-economic development of a State. 8+8=16
Q4 (xvii) When the President of India can declare constitutional emergency in a State? 2
Question from our APSC Mains General Studies (GS) Test 1: Q3 (ix) (2 Marks)
Q4 (xix) What does the Article 40 of the Indian Constitution deal with? 2
Q4 (xxv) Mention the Amendment with year by which the Indian Constitution has lowered the voting age from 21 to 18. 2
Q4 (xxvii) What does the Clause 6 of the Assam Accord deal with? 2
Question from our APSC Mains General Studies (GS) Test 1: Q4 (x) (2 Marks)
Q4 (xxxv) How long the Rajya Sabha can delay in the enactment of a Money Bill? 2
Questions from APSC Mains 2016 GS Paper
Discuss the basic features of Indian Constitution. Is Indian Constitution flexible in nature? 16 Discuss the nature of Fundamental Rights in India. When Fundamental Rights be suspended in India? 16 Composition of Election Commission of India. Describe its main functions. 16 What is Money Bill? Discuss the passage of the Money Bill. 8 Pocket veto power 2 Zero hour 2 IMDT Act 2 Article 1 of Constitution of India 2 Three-Tier Panchayat System 2 Article 360 2
Questions from APSC Mains 2015 GS Paper
Main characteristics of 73rd Constitutional amendment? Critical assessment on it’s working
16
discuss Federal features of Indian Constitution? What is the Quasi-federal character of the Indian Union
16
‘Right to Property’ was guaranteed by which Article? Present position of this Right?
5
Strength needed of largest Opp party to claim position of Leader of Opp
2
Chairman of Constituent Assembly? Chairman of Drafting Committee?
2
‘Original Jurisdiction’ of Supreme Court of India
2
‘Pocket Veto’ of President
2
System for removal of President of India
2
Questions from APSC Mains 2014 GS Paper
Questions
Marks
Main features of Provincial autonomy? Its limitations?
16
‘Judicial Activism’? examples ?
16
necessity of Lok Pal Bill? How it benefit the masses
16
Discuss 52nd Amendment? It’s Limitations
8
Functions of North East Council NEC
5
Zero hour?
2
Questions from APSC Mains 2002 GS Paper
Classify DPSP as enshrined in the constitution and discuss each category 12
How President elected, qualification for President, Powers, process of termination 12
Financial emergency in which circumstances 4
Federalism as defined by Garner, is it true in India? of Not, How? Discuss reasonably 10
Education is made Fundamental Right – implication 5
Points of reference for the Constitution Review Committee 5
extending sixth schedule to Bodo dominated areas – what it means for bods and non-bodo 7
State party – conditions 3
ways to acquire Indian citizenship 3
How Zila Parishad formed- functions 3
procedure for creation of new state 2
how president can be removed 2
functinon of CAG 2
how Chief Justice and other Judges of SC and HC appointer 2
Lok Adalat 2
Questions from APSC Mains 1999 GS Paper
Write briefly – Functioning of India’s Parliamentary democracy since establishment of Republic 10
Democratic decentralisation as panchayatiraj, discuss with reference to 73rd and 74th amendment 10
Do you agree that Anti-defection law failed to check defections among legislatures. Find Defects and suggest remedies 5
Why necessary to incorporate Fund Duties in Part IVA? Explain their significance 5
Number and Nature of budgetary committee – functions 5
Explain – nature and scope of right to life and personal liberty under Art 21. State direction in which right has been expanded by Supreme court 5
Cause of political defection from one party to another? Significance of Tenth schedule 10
Any case for review of Indian constitution, in which areas – Discuss 10
Caretaker govt – a constitutional fiction or an inherent hazard of Parliamentary system? Explain with reference to Indian experience 7
Composition and functions of National Human rights Commission. Constraints in functioning 7
Does Planning in India derive it’s objectives and social promise from DPSP? Examples 14
Art 243-ZD – District Planning Committee – Functions ? – areas covered? To whom they forward dev plans? 10
APSC Mains Paper II – General Studies I (GSI) Previous Years Questions from Geography of India and World section
Previous years Questions asked in APSC Mains GS Paper from Geography of India and World section, which are now part of the APSC Mains Paper II – General Studies (GS) I paper are discussed below.
Questions from APSC Mains 2018 GS Paper
Q1 (k) Discuss how water harvesting system can be made effective to address the problem of depleting groundwater resources in urban areas. 16
Q2 (d) What is an agro-climatic zone? Describe the agro-climatic zones of Assam. 2+6=8
Q2 (e) What steps were taken in the Indus Waters Treaty to resolve the water conflict between India and Pakistan? 8
Q2 (f) What do you understand by the ‘Chipko Movement’? Discuss its role in the protection of trees. 2+6=8
Q3 (a) What is the phenomenon called ‘cloudburst’? 5
Q3 (i) State five key characteristics of organic farming. 5
Q4 (ix) Name the India States that shares their borders with Bhutan. 2
Q4 (xi) Tungabhadra Multipurpose Project is a joint venture of which States of India? 2
Q4 (xii) What does El Nino mean? 2
Question from our APSC Mains General Studies (GS) Test 7: Q1 (ii) (2 Marks)
Q4 (xiii) Which place is called Greenwich of India and why? 2
Q4 (xiv) Which is the highest dam in India? Where is it located? 2
Q4 (xv) What are cash crops? Give one example. 2
Question from our APSC Mains General Studies (GS) Test 4: Q4 (vi) (1 Marks) Indirect
Q4 (xx) Which continent is called Dark Continent and why? 2
Q4 (xxviii) Name any two of the Ramsar Sites of Northeast India. 2
Question from our APSC Mains General Studies (GS) Test 6: Q1 (ix) (2 Marks) Indirect
Questions from APSC Mains 2016 GS Paper
Describe the salient features of Indian agriculture. Delineate the major rice producing belt of India 16 Assam is not only rich in natural resources but also in cultural life and socioeconic setup which are prevalent among the different ethnic groups. Examine it with reference to the various ethnic groups of the State 16 What is the main cause of urbanization? Critically examine the major issues and challenges that India faces as her urbanization proceeds. 8 What are the main causes for conflicts over water? Discuss one international and one inter-state water conflict. 8 What are greenhouse gases and what is greenhouse effect? Discuss the potential and contribution of these gases to global warming. 8 What is biodiversity hot spot? What the biodiversity significance of North-East India 5 What is disaster management? How could it be helpful in preventing the loss of lives and property in the event of occurrence of any disaster? 5 What are the fossil fuel resources in India? 2 What are the largest mineral-based industry in India? Why is it a key or basic industry 2 Mention two geographical requirements for the growth of wheat in India 2 Identify two issues in which NE India is lagging behind its neighbouring states of India 2 Name the countries having international boundary with the state of North-East India 2 Give two reasons why Assam is lagging behind in blue revolution in spite of having innumerable wetlands 2 How has climate change affected the production of tea in Assam 2 Name the tropical rain forest of Assam and state its characteristics 2 What is the decadal growth of population in Assam during the decade 2001-2011 2 What to the letters CTC stand for when used in relation to tea 2 Name the bird sanctuary of Assam and in which district it is located 2 What is McMahon line? Why is it the bone of connection between India and China? 2 Mention in two points how the productivity of human resources of India is adversely affected by high birthrate of population 2
Questions from APSC Mains 2015 GS Paper
Explain Importance of water resources and means of water conservation. Explain drought situation prevalent in India recently
16
Main causes responsible for Ganga river pollution and suggest measures. Recent move of govt Clean Ganga Mission
16
Distinguish b/w wasteland and wetland? Measures by Central and state govt to preserve wetlands in Assam
16
give an estimate of magnitude of water crisis in India? Is river-linking project a solution to the problem? Reasons?
8
What is Paris Agreement on Climate change ? Critically examine main highlights of the Agreement? It’s chances of success?
8
Bioshpere Reserve? Explain with reference to particular Biosphere Reserve in India
8
Integrated watershed management plan?
5
Name of Brahmaputra in it’s upper course and lower course
2
Questions from APSC Mains 2014 GS Paper
Examine problem of river pollution in India with focus on Ganga? Suggest measures to control it?
16
How Indian monsoon originate? Impacts of monsoons on Indian culture and economy with example?
16
countries connected by stilwell road
2
mean by black soil zone of India?
2
Coromandal coast?
2
horse latitude?
2
rainforest?
2
East-West corridor?
2
significance of Bhutan as buffer state?
2
Seismograph & application
2
largest fresh water lake in India? Location?
2
Questions from APSC Mains 2002 GS Paper
state with common boundary with Chhattisgarh 2
Indian state produce natural saffron 2
Jog Fall supply power to which steel plant 2
state produce highest quantity of Sugarcane 2
Name the Iron and steel plants in India, give brief account of their resource bases 8
Karbi-Langpi Hydel project 2
Namari Wildlife Sanctuary 2
APOL 2
Population growth of Assam 1991-2001 2
Essay on main ethnic groups in Assam 10
Dept of Space and Space Commissin – established when? Where? Achievement so far?
Mesozoic period means 4
Questions from APSC Mains 1999 GS Paper
How Great Lakes economically important to USA & Canada, part of Europe most densely populated& why? Important minerals found in Mediterranean coastal countreis of Africa, important agri crops of Australia and which part it grows 6
Note – distribution of cement industry in India 6
Adjoining countries around Persian gulf ‘Liquid Gold’ available. Geographical structure associated with Liquid gold 9
Elucidate & examine how Japan improved Food crop production – measures taken 8
Rivers & bridges 5
Inspite of fertile soil and monsoon climate, Assam Agri not developed- Elicidate, Examine the agri situation of Assam & suggest measures 7
