Geography (Mains PYQs Analysis)
Explore topic-wise Previous Year Questions (PYQs) analysis on Geography for UPSC Mains GS Paper 1 from 2013–2024. Click the links in the table below to jump to the relevant questions and detailed analysis to enhance your preparation.
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2024 Mains PYQs
1. What is sea surface temperature rise? How does it affect the formation of tropical cyclones? [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): SST rise and cyclone formation.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) defines SST rise. Body (90 words) covers mechanism (evaporation) and impacts (intensity). Conclusion (40 words) suggests mitigation.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for SST rise, 3 for cyclone impact, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study IPCC reports (0.9°C rise). Memorize data (26.5°C threshold). Practice process-based answers. Avoid vague impacts.
Common Mistakes: Missing mechanism or data. Ensure specific cyclones (Amphan) within 150 words.
2. What is the phenomenon of ‘cloudbursts’? Explain. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Cloudburst phenomenon and impacts.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) defines cloudbursts. Body (90 words) covers mechanism (orographic uplift) and impacts (floods). Conclusion (40 words) suggests mitigation.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for mechanism, 3 for impacts, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study IMD reports (100 mm/hour). Memorize data (Kedarnath 2013). Practice descriptive answers. Avoid vague triggers.
Common Mistakes: Missing impacts or examples. Ensure specific events (Uttarakhand) within 150 words.
3. What are aurora australis and aurora borealis? How are these triggered? [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Auroras and their triggers.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) defines auroras. Body (170 words) covers mechanism (solar winds) and impacts (tourism). Conclusion (50 words) suggests monitoring.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for mechanism, 4 for impacts, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study NASA reports (solar winds). Memorize data (2024 G5 storm). Practice process-based answers. Avoid vague triggers.
Common Mistakes: Missing impacts or data. Ensure specific events (2024 storm) within 250 words.
4. What is a twister? Why are the majority of twisters observed in areas around the Gulf of Mexico? [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Twister definition and Gulf prevalence.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) defines twisters. Body (170 words) covers mechanism (wind shear) and reasons (Gulf air). Conclusion (50 words) suggests mitigation.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for reasons, 4 for mechanism, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study NOAA reports (1,200 twisters). Memorize data (28°C SST). Practice causal answers. Avoid vague conditions.
Common Mistakes: Missing reasons or data. Ensure specific regions (Tornado Alley) within 250 words.
2023 Mains PYQs
5. How are the fjords formed? Why do they constitute some of the most picturesque areas of the world? [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Fjord formation and scenic appeal.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) defines fjords. Body (90 words) covers formation (glaciers) and beauty (cliffs). Conclusion (40 words) emphasizes conservation.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for formation, 3 for appeal, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study glacial landforms (Sognefjord). Memorize tourism data (1 million). Practice descriptive answers. Avoid vague processes.
Common Mistakes: Missing appeal or examples. Ensure specific landforms within 150 words.
2022 Mains PYQs
6. What are the forces that influence ocean currents? Describe their role in the fishing industry of the world. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Ocean current forces and fishing industry role.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) defines currents. Body (170 words) covers forces (winds) and role (upwelling). Conclusion (50 words) emphasizes sustainability.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for forces, 4 for fishing role, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study currents (Gulf Stream). Memorize data (Peru’s 20% fish). Practice causal answers. Avoid vague forces.
Common Mistakes: Missing fishing role or examples. Ensure specific currents (Canaries) within 250 words.
7. Describing the distribution of rubber-producing countries, indicate the major environmental issues faced by them. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Rubber production distribution and environmental issues.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames rubber production. Body (170 words) covers distribution (Thailand) and issues (deforestation). Conclusion (50 words) suggests solutions.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for distribution, 4 for issues, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study rubber belt (Southeast Asia). Memorize data (70% global supply). Practice descriptive answers. Avoid vague issues.
Common Mistakes: Missing issues or examples. Ensure specific countries (Malaysia) within 250 words.
8. Discuss the consequences of spreading ‘Dead Zones’ on marine ecosystems. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Dead zones and marine ecosystem impacts.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) defines dead zones. Body (90 words) covers causes (eutrophication) and impacts (fish loss). Conclusion (40 words) suggests mitigation.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for causes, 3 for impacts, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study Gulf of Mexico dead zone. Memorize data (400 zones). Practice impact-based answers. Avoid vague impacts.
Common Mistakes: Missing causes or examples. Ensure specific zones (Baltic) within 150 words.
2021 Mains PYQs
9. Differentiate the causes of landslides in the Himalayan region and Western Ghats. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Landslide causes in Himalayas vs. Western Ghats.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) defines landslides. Body (90 words) compares causes (tectonics vs. rainfall). Conclusion (40 words) summarizes differences.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for Himalayan causes, 3 for Western Ghats, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study NDMA reports. Memorize data (Uttarakhand 2021). Practice comparative answers. Avoid vague causes.
Common Mistakes: Missing comparisons or examples. Ensure specific regions (Kerala) within 150 words.
10. Briefly mention the alignment of major mountain ranges of the world and explain their impact on local weather conditions. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Mountain range alignment and weather impact.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames ranges. Body (170 words) covers alignment (Himalayas) and impact (orographic rain). Conclusion (50 words) summarizes effects.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for alignment, 4 for weather impact, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study ranges (Andes). Memorize data (Himalayan rain 2,000 mm). Practice descriptive answers. Avoid vague impacts.
Common Mistakes: Missing impacts or examples. Ensure specific ranges (Rockies) within 250 words.
11. Why is the world today confronted with a crisis of availability of and access to freshwater resources? [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Freshwater crisis causes and impacts.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames crisis. Body (170 words) covers causes (overuse) and impacts (scarcity). Conclusion (50 words) suggests solutions.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for causes, 4 for impacts, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study UN Water reports. Memorize data (2.2 billion lack access). Practice causal answers. Avoid vague causes.
Common Mistakes: Missing impacts or examples. Ensure specific regions (Sub-Saharan Africa) within 250 words.
12. How are the fjords formed? Why do they constitute some of the most picturesque areas of the world? [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Fjord formation and scenic appeal.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) defines fjords. Body (90 words) covers formation (glaciers) and beauty (cliffs). Conclusion (40 words) emphasizes conservation.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for formation, 3 for appeal, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study glacial landforms (Sognefjord). Memorize tourism data (1 million). Practice descriptive answers. Avoid vague processes.
Common Mistakes: Missing appeal or examples. Ensure specific landforms within 150 words.
2020 Mains PYQs
13. Discuss the geophysical characteristics of the Circum-Pacific Zone. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Circum-Pacific Zone characteristics.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) defines zone. Body (170 words) covers features (volcanoes) and hazards (earthquakes). Conclusion (50 words) summarizes significance.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for features, 4 for hazards, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study Ring of Fire. Memorize data (80% volcanoes). Practice descriptive answers. Avoid vague features.
Common Mistakes: Missing hazards or examples. Ensure specific regions (Japan) within 250 words.
14. The process of desertification does not have climate boundaries. Justify with examples. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Desertification and climate independence.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) defines desertification. Body (90 words) covers causes (deforestation) and examples (Sahel). Conclusion (40 words) summarizes spread.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for causes, 3 for examples, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study UNCCD reports. Memorize data (25% land affected). Practice example-based answers. Avoid vague causes.
Common Mistakes: Missing examples or causes. Ensure specific regions (Thar) within 150 words.
2019 Mains PYQs
15. How do ocean currents influence climate in the coastal areas? [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Ocean currents and coastal climate.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) defines currents. Body (90 words) covers influence (warming) and examples (Gulf Stream). Conclusion (40 words) summarizes effects.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for influence, 3 for examples, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study currents (Kuroshio). Memorize data (10°C warming). Practice causal answers. Avoid vague influences.
Common Mistakes: Missing examples or influences. Ensure specific currents (Canaries) within 150 words.
2018 Mains PYQs
16. Define mantle plume and explain its role in plate tectonics. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Mantle plume and plate tectonics role.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) defines plume. Body (90 words) covers role (hotspots) and examples (Hawaii). Conclusion (40 words) summarizes significance.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for definition, 3 for role, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study hotspots (Yellowstone). Memorize data (50 plumes). Practice process-based answers. Avoid vague roles.
Common Mistakes: Missing examples or roles. Ensure specific plumes (Reunion) within 150 words.
2017 Mains PYQs
17. Account for the change in the spatial pattern of the Iron and Steel industry in the world. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Iron and steel industry spatial changes.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames industry. Body (170 words) covers changes (China’s rise) and causes (raw materials). Conclusion (50 words) summarizes trends.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for changes, 4 for causes, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study China’s steel (50% global). Memorize data (1.9 billion tonnes). Practice descriptive answers. Avoid vague causes.
Common Mistakes: Missing causes or examples. Ensure specific countries (Japan) within 250 words.
2016 Mains PYQs
18. Discuss the concept of air mass and explain its role in macro-climatic changes. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Air mass and climatic role.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) defines air mass. Body (90 words) covers role (fronts) and examples (monsoons). Conclusion (40 words) summarizes effects.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for definition, 3 for role, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study air masses (polar). Memorize data (monsoon rainfall). Practice process-based answers. Avoid vague roles.
Common Mistakes: Missing examples or roles. Ensure specific masses (tropical) within 150 words.
2015 Mains PYQs
19. Explain the factors responsible for the origin of ocean currents. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Ocean current origins.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) defines currents. Body (90 words) covers factors (winds) and examples (Gulf Stream). Conclusion (40 words) summarizes significance.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for factors, 3 for examples, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study currents (Kuroshio). Memorize data (Coriolis effect). Practice causal answers. Avoid vague factors.
Common Mistakes: Missing examples or factors. Ensure specific currents (Labrador) within 150 words.
2014 Mains PYQs
20. What do you understand by the phenomenon of ‘El-Nino’? Explain its impact on the Indian Monsoon. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): El-Nino and monsoon impact.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) defines El-Nino. Body (90 words) covers mechanism (SST) and impact (drought). Conclusion (40 words) summarizes effects.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for definition, 3 for impact, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study ENSO cycles. Memorize data (30% rainfall drop). Practice causal answers. Avoid vague impacts.
Common Mistakes: Missing impacts or examples. Ensure specific events (2015 drought) within 150 words.
21. Most of the unusual climatic happenings are explained as an outcome of the El-Nino effect. Do you agree? [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): El-Nino and climatic events.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames El-Nino. Body (90 words) evaluates role (droughts) and limitations (other factors). Conclusion (40 words) balances agreement.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for role, 3 for limitations, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study ENSO impacts. Memorize data (2015 drought). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid one-sided arguments.
Common Mistakes: Missing limitations or examples. Ensure balanced arguments within 150 words.
22. Why are the world’s fold mountain systems located along the margins of continents? Bring out the association between the global distribution of fold mountains and the earthquakes and volcanoes. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Fold mountain location and seismic association.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) defines fold mountains. Body (170 words) covers location (plate boundaries) and association (earthquakes). Conclusion (50 words) summarizes links.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for location, 4 for association, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study Himalayas. Memorize data (80% earthquakes). Practice causal answers. Avoid vague associations.
Common Mistakes: Missing associations or examples. Ensure specific ranges (Andes) within 250 words.
2024 Mains PYQs
23. The groundwater potential of the Gangetic valley is on a serious decline. How may it affect the food security of India? [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Groundwater decline and food security.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames decline. Body (170 words) covers impacts (yield drop) and solutions (PMKSY). Conclusion (50 words) suggests reforms.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for impacts, 4 for solutions, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study CGWB reports (20 cm/year). Memorize data (150 million tonnes). Practice impact-based answers. Avoid vague impacts.
Common Mistakes: Missing solutions or data. Ensure specific regions (Punjab) within 250 words.
2023 Mains PYQs
24. Explain the impact of climate change on the pattern of natural vegetation in India. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Climate change and vegetation patterns.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames climate change. Body (90 words) covers impacts (forest shift) and examples (Western Ghats). Conclusion (40 words) suggests conservation.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for impacts, 3 for examples, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study MoEFCC reports. Memorize data (10% forest loss). Practice impact-based answers. Avoid vague impacts.
Common Mistakes: Missing examples or impacts. Ensure specific regions (Himalayas) within 150 words.
25. Assess the impact of global warming on the coral life system with examples. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Global warming’s impact on corals.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames impact. Body (90 words) covers impacts (bleaching) and efforts (restoration). Conclusion (40 words) suggests solutions.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for impacts, 3 for efforts, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study coral bleaching (Great Barrier Reef). Memorize data (1.1°C rise). Practice impact-based answers. Avoid vague effects.
Common Mistakes: Missing efforts or examples. Ensure specific reefs (Lakshadweep) within 150 words.
2021 Mains PYQs
26. Discuss the environmental implications of reclamation of water bodies into urban land use. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Water body reclamation and environmental impacts.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames reclamation. Body (90 words) covers impacts (flooding) and examples (Bengaluru). Conclusion (40 words) suggests solutions.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for impacts, 3 for examples, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study urban flooding. Memorize data (70% lakes lost). Practice impact-based answers. Avoid vague impacts.
Common Mistakes: Missing examples or impacts. Ensure specific cities (Chennai) within 150 words.
2020 Mains PYQs
27. Account for the present location of iron and steel industries away from the source of raw material, by giving examples. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Iron and steel industry location shift.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames shift. Body (90 words) covers reasons (transport) and examples (China). Conclusion (40 words) summarizes trends.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for reasons, 3 for examples, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study steel hubs (Shanghai). Memorize data (50% coastal). Practice causal answers. Avoid vague reasons.
Common Mistakes: Missing examples or reasons. Ensure specific regions (Jamshedpur) within 150 words.
2019 Mains PYQs
28. How can the mountain ecosystem be restored from the negative impact of development initiatives and tourism? [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Mountain ecosystem restoration.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames impacts. Body (170 words) covers restoration (afforestation) and examples (Himalayas). Conclusion (50 words) emphasizes sustainability.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for restoration, 4 for examples, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study eco-restoration (Uttarakhand). Memorize data (30% degradation). Practice solution-based answers. Avoid vague solutions.
Common Mistakes: Missing examples or solutions. Ensure specific regions (Alps) within 250 words.
29. How is efficient and affordable urban mass transport key to the rapid economic development of India? [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Urban transport and economic development.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames transport. Body (170 words) covers role (connectivity) and examples (Delhi Metro). Conclusion (50 words) emphasizes policies.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for role, 4 for examples, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study metro systems. Memorize data (10 million passengers). Practice causal answers. Avoid vague roles.
Common Mistakes: Missing examples or roles. Ensure specific systems (Mumbai) within 250 words.
30. How do ocean currents influence climate in the coastal areas? [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Ocean currents and coastal climate.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) defines currents. Body (90 words) covers influence (warming) and examples (Gulf Stream). Conclusion (40 words) summarizes effects.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for influence, 3 for examples, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study currents (Kuroshio). Memorize data (10°C warming). Practice causal answers. Avoid vague influences.
Common Mistakes: Missing examples or influences. Ensure specific currents (Canaries) within 150 words.
2018 Mains PYQs
31. Why is India taking up the concept of ‘Blue Revolution’ to ensure economic development? [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Blue Revolution and economic development.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames Blue Revolution. Body (90 words) covers role (fisheries) and examples (aquaculture). Conclusion (40 words) emphasizes growth.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for role, 3 for examples, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study PMMSY. Memorize data (8% GDP contribution). Practice causal answers. Avoid vague roles.
Common Mistakes: Missing examples or roles. Ensure specific schemes (Sagarmala) within 150 words.
32. What is the significance of Industrial Corridors in India? Identifying industrial corridors, explain their main characteristics. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Industrial corridors significance and characteristics.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames corridors. Body (170 words) covers significance (jobs) and characteristics (connectivity). Conclusion (50 words) suggests solutions.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for significance, 4 for characteristics, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study DMIC. Memorize data (1 million jobs). Practice descriptive answers. Avoid vague characteristics.
Common Mistakes: Missing challenges or examples. Ensure specific corridors (CBIC) within 250 words.
2023 Mains PYQs
33. From being a net food importer in the 1960s, India has emerged as a net food exporter to the world. Provide reasons. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Food export transformation reasons.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames transition. Body (170 words) covers reasons (Green Revolution) and challenges (soil degradation). Conclusion (50 words) emphasizes sustainability.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for reasons, 4 for challenges, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study Green Revolution. Memorize data (20 million tonnes rice). Practice reason-based answers. Avoid vague policies.
Common Mistakes: Missing challenges or data. Ensure specific reforms (MSP) within 250 words.
2022 Mains PYQs
34. Why is India considered as a sub-continent? Elaborate your answer. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): India as a sub-continent.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) defines sub-continent. Body (90 words) covers features (Himalayas) and diversity (climate). Conclusion (40 words) summarizes uniqueness.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for features, 3 for diversity, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study Indian geography. Memorize data (7,517 km coastline). Practice descriptive answers. Avoid vague features.
Common Mistakes: Missing diversity or examples. Ensure specific features (Deccan) within 150 words.
2021 Mains PYQs
35. Discuss the multi-dimensional implications of uneven distribution of mineral oil in the world. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Mineral oil distribution implications.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames distribution. Body (170 words) covers implications (geopolitical) and examples (Middle East). Conclusion (50 words) suggests diversification.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for implications, 4 for examples, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study OPEC. Memorize data (40% oil reserves). Practice impact-based answers. Avoid vague implications.
Common Mistakes: Missing examples or implications. Ensure specific regions (Saudi Arabia) within 250 words.
2024 Mains PYQs
36. What is the concept of a ‘demographic winter’? Is the world moving towards such a situation? Elaborate. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Demographic winter and global trends.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) defines winter. Body (90 words) covers causes (urbanization) and trends (Japan). Conclusion (40 words) assesses global status.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for concept, 3 for trends, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study UN reports (2.4 TFR). Memorize data (Japan 1.2). Practice analytical answers. Avoid vague causes.
Common Mistakes: Missing trends or data. Ensure specific countries (South Korea) within 150 words.
2023 Mains PYQs
37. Discuss the role of human development in economic growth with special reference to India’s position in the global context. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Human development and economic growth.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames human development. Body (170 words) covers role (education) and India’s status (HDI). Conclusion (50 words) suggests reforms.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for role, 4 for India’s status, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study UNDP HDI. Memorize data (India’s 0.645). Practice analytical answers. Avoid vague roles.
Common Mistakes: Missing India’s status or data. Ensure specific schemes (NEP) within 250 words.
2021 Mains PYQs
38. Examine the potential of wind energy in India and explain the reasons for their limited spatial spread. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Wind energy potential and limited spread.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames wind energy. Body (170 words) covers potential (Tamil Nadu) and limitations (grid). Conclusion (50 words) suggests solutions.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for potential, 4 for limitations, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study MNRE reports. Memorize data (50 GW installed). Practice causal answers. Avoid vague limitations.
Common Mistakes: Missing limitations or data. Ensure specific regions (Gujarat) within 250 words.
2023 Mains PYQs
39. Comment on the resource potentials of the long coastline of India and highlight the status of natural hazard preparedness in these areas. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Coastal resource potential and hazard preparedness.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames potential. Body (170 words) covers resources (fisheries) and preparedness (IMD). Conclusion (50 words) emphasizes sustainability.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for resources, 4 for preparedness, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study Sagarmala. Memorize data (7,517 km). Practice comment-based answers. Avoid vague hazards.
Common Mistakes: Missing preparedness or data. Ensure specific measures (mangroves) within 250 words.
40. Why are floods a recurrent feature in India? Suggest suitable measures to mitigate their impact. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Flood recurrence and mitigation.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames floods. Body (90 words) covers causes (monsoons) and measures (dams). Conclusion (40 words) emphasizes planning.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for causes, 3 for measures, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study NDMA guidelines. Memorize data (40 million hectares). Practice solution-based answers. Avoid vague causes.
Common Mistakes: Missing measures or examples. Ensure specific regions (Assam) within 150 words.
2021 Mains PYQs
41. Discuss the geophysical characteristics of the Circum-Pacific Zone. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Circum-Pacific Zone characteristics.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) defines zone. Body (90 words) covers features (volcanoes) and hazards (earthquakes). Conclusion (40 words) summarizes significance.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for features, 3 for hazards, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study Ring of Fire. Memorize data (80% volcanoes). Practice descriptive answers. Avoid vague features.
Common Mistakes: Missing hazards or examples. Ensure specific regions (Japan) within 150 words.
2020 Mains PYQs
42. Discuss the significance of coastal regions in the economic development of India. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Coastal regions and economic development.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames coasts. Body (170 words) covers role (ports) and challenges (hazards). Conclusion (50 words) emphasizes sustainability.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for role, 4 for challenges, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study Sagarmala. Memorize data (95% trade volume). Practice causal answers. Avoid vague roles.
Common Mistakes: Missing challenges or data. Ensure specific ports (Mumbai) within 250 words.
2022 Mains PYQs
43. Mention the significance of straits and isthmus in international trade. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Straits/isthmuses in trade.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames significance. Body (90 words) covers role (Malacca) and challenges (piracy). Conclusion (40 words) suggests solutions.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for role, 3 for challenges, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study chokepoints (Suez). Memorize data (40% trade). Practice trade-focused answers. Avoid vague roles.
Common Mistakes: Missing challenges or examples. Ensure specific routes (Hormuz) within 150 words.
2018 Mains PYQs
44. Assess the potential of India’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) in the global commercial launch market. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): PSLV’s commercial potential.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames PSLV. Body (90 words) covers potential (cost) and challenges (competition). Conclusion (40 words) suggests strategies.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for potential, 3 for challenges, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study ISRO reports. Memorize data (100 launches). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague potential.
Common Mistakes: Missing challenges or data. Ensure specific missions (Cartosat) within 150 words.
45. Why is India taking up the concept of ‘Blue Revolution’ to ensure economic development? [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Blue Revolution and economic development.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames Blue Revolution. Body (90 words) covers role (fisheries) and examples (aquaculture). Conclusion (40 words) emphasizes growth.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for role, 3 for examples, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study PMMSY. Memorize data (8% GDP contribution). Practice causal answers. Avoid vague roles.
Common Mistakes: Missing examples or roles. Ensure specific schemes (Sagarmala) within 150 words.
2016 Mains PYQs
46. South China Sea has assumed great geopolitical significance in the present context. Comment. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): South China Sea geopolitical significance.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames significance. Body (90 words) covers role (trade) and conflicts (China). Conclusion (40 words) suggests diplomacy.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for role, 3 for conflicts, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study ASEAN disputes. Memorize data (50% trade). Practice comment-based answers. Avoid vague roles.
Common Mistakes: Missing conflicts or data. Ensure specific issues (Spratly) within 150 words.
2014 Mains PYQs
47. How does India see its place in the economic space of rising natural resource-rich Africa? [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): India-Africa economic engagement.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames partnership. Body (170 words) covers trade (oil) and challenges (China). Conclusion (50 words) suggests diplomacy.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for engagement, 4 for challenges, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study India-Africa summits. Memorize data ($90 billion trade). Practice strategic answers. Avoid vague partnerships.
Common Mistakes: Missing challenges or data. Ensure specific resources (cobalt) within 250 words.
The following analysis examines trends in Geography PYQs for UPSC Mains GS Paper 1 from 2013 to 2024, covering 79 questions to identify patterns in themes, question types, and preparation strategies for aspirants. (600 words)
Key Trends:
Geography PYQs from 2013–2024 span physical, environmental, economic, human, Indian, and geopolitical geography, testing conceptual and applied knowledge. Physical Geography (22 questions, e.g., SST rise 2024, fjords 2023) and Indian Geography (20 questions, e.g., coastline 2023) dominate, reflecting UPSC’s focus on processes and regional issues. Environmental Geography (16 questions, e.g., groundwater 2024) emphasizes sustainability, while Economic (10 questions), Human (8 questions, e.g., demographic winter 2024), and Geopolitical (3 questions) address development and strategy.
Thematic Patterns: Physical geography questions cover phenomena (cloudbursts 2024) and hazards (twisters 2024), requiring examples (Tornado Alley) and data (0.9°C SST rise). Environmental questions focus on climate impacts (corals 2019) and resources (water crisis 2023), citing stats (20 cm/year groundwater decline). Economic geography explores agriculture (food exports 2023) and industries (corridors 2018), referencing policies (MSP). Human geography addresses demographic trends (TFR 2.4, 2024) and urbanization (IT hubs 2021). Indian geography highlights resources (solar 2020) and hazards (cyclones 2023), using stats (7,517 km coastline). Geopolitical questions analyze trade (straits 2022) and resources (Africa 2014).
Question Types: Descriptive questions (e.g., “explain,” “discuss”) dominate, as in auroras (2024), requiring detailed analysis. Comparative questions (e.g., landslides 2021) test differentiation. Solution-oriented questions (e.g., water harvesting 2018) demand practical measures. Short-answer questions (150 words, 10 marks) are common post-2018, while 250-word questions (15 marks) allow broader scope (e.g., food exports 2023). Diagram-based answers (e.g., continental drift 2013) and data usage (e.g., 150 million tonnes rice 2024) enhance scores.
Marks Allocation: Marks range from 10 (150 words) to 15 (250 words), with 12.5 marks (2015–2017) and 5 marks (2013) as transitions. Higher marks correlate with broader scope (e.g., industrial corridors 2018), while 10-mark questions focus on specifics (e.g., cloudbursts 2024). High-scoring answers integrate examples (Kedarnath 2013) and data (1,200 twisters 2024).
Preparation Strategies: Prioritize NCERTs (Class 11–12) and Goh Cheng Leong’s *Physical Geography*. Study schemes (PMKSY, Sagarmala) and data (0.9°C SST rise, 7,517 km coastline). Practice diagram-based answers (cyclones, fjords) and word-limited writing (Introduction: 20–30 words, Body: 90–170 words, Conclusion: 40–50 words). Use Economic Survey, IMD, and *Yojana* for updates. Standard texts like Majid Husain’s *Indian Geography* are essential. Solve past papers for structure and time management.
Challenges and Tips: Common mistakes include vague processes (e.g., “warm water causes cyclones”) and missing data (e.g., 90% irrigation groundwater). Avoid one-sided answers; balance impacts (e.g., coral bleaching) with solutions (restoration). Regional examples (e.g., Gangetic Valley) add depth. Linking to global frameworks (e.g., SDGs) enhances relevance. Mock tests and peer reviews improve clarity.
Future Trends: UPSC may emphasize extreme weather (cloudbursts) or demographic shifts (winter). Technology integration (e
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