UPSC PYQs: Mains GS3

Review complete published questions grouped by paper: Mains GS3.

285 published questions

Other qualifying paper groups

Essay108 published questions
Kannada Optional Paper I310 published questions
Kannada Optional Paper II280 published questions
Mains GS1295 published questions
Mains GS2285 published questions
Mains GS3285 published questions
Mains GS4215 published questions
Prelims CSAT1201 published questions
Prelims GS11525 published questions

Questions

What do you mean by Digital Rupee? In this context, explain the working and progress of India's Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC).2026 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Digital Rupee and CBDC
Examine the view that financial inclusion is an integral part of social and economic inclusion in a country like India. Also throw light on the usefulness of the R.B.I.'s Financial Inclusion Index.2026 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Financial Inclusion and RBI FI-Index
Describe the various Technology Missions initiated in Indian agriculture and examine their role in food security.2026 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Technology Missions and Food Security
Explain the factors responsible for inefficiency of agri-produce marketing. How e-commerce helps to reduce inefficiency of agri-produce marketing? Explain.2026 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Agri-Marketing and E-Commerce
Explain by giving two examples, how biotechnology has helped the Indian farmers in processing their perishable crops.2026 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Biotechnology in Processing Perishable Crops
Distinguish between a Fast Breeder Reactor (FBR) and a thermal nuclear reactor. In the context of first indigenously developed prototype FBR at Kalpakkam, explain the term “criticality”. What are its implications for clean energy future of our country?2026 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Fast Breeder Reactor and Criticality
Discuss how the contradiction between “rapid infrastructure development” and “disaster-risk reduction” in ecologically-sensitive areas of India can be managed, with suitable examples.2026 · Mains GS3 · Disaster Management · Infrastructure and Disaster-Risk Reduction
Discuss the aim and goals of Kunming-Montreal global biodiversity framework. Mention India's commitments and initiatives to achieve the goals and targets of this framework giving suitable examples.2026 · Mains GS3 · Environment · Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework
In the Indian context, explain how fake news and disinformation pose a threat to Internal Security and Public Order. In this regard, discuss salient features of amendments in respect of Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules 2021.2026 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Fake News, Disinformation and IT Rules
Ladakh is strategically located between China and Pakistan. As a measure to win hearts and minds of locals, discuss the Border Area Development Programmes (BADP) by the Central Government and civic actions by the Army. Also discuss demand of promulgation of provision of the Sixth Schedule of constitution for Ladakh.2026 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Ladakh, BADP and Sixth Schedule
Explain the key challenges for India's energy security. What measures do you suggest for ensuring energy security along with economic growth and sustainability?2026 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Energy Security and Sustainable Growth
How are startups in India promoting entrepreneurship, innovation and employment? Discuss the global and domestic challenges in their working and suggest suitable measures to overcome these challenges.2026 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Startups, Innovation and Employment
How Indian agriculture has been transformed from food scarcity to food surplus level? Explain the various government policies implemented for diversification of Indian agriculture.2026 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · From Food Scarcity to Surplus and Diversification
Discuss the different types of subsidies and supports provided by the Government of India to agricultural sector. Examine the related issues pertaining to Agreement on Agriculture of World Trade Organisation (WTO).2026 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Agricultural Subsidies and WTO Agreement on Agriculture
Mention salient features of “Mission Drishti”. Discuss the imaging techniques used in the satellite launched on 3rd May 2026. Why it is being considered world's first satellite of its kind?2026 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Mission Drishti and OptoSAR
What is agentic Artificial Intelligence (AI)? Explain its working. Describe its applications with suitable examples. Discuss the advantages, risks and challenges associated with agentic AI systems.2026 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Agentic Artificial Intelligence
What are the challenges to solid waste management in India? Discuss the governmental policy framework on solid waste management. Discuss the success/failure cases of Delhi and Indore cities highlighting the salient feature of their solid waste management initiatives.2026 · Mains GS3 · Environment · Solid Waste Management, Delhi and Indore
“Community participation is the cornerstone of effective disaster management”. Analyse this statement with suitable examples from India. Also discuss the challenges to community participation and measures to strengthen it.2026 · Mains GS3 · Disaster Management · Community Participation in Disaster Management
Separatist movements have been one of the major factors contributing to militancy and instability in Jammu & Kashmir (J & K). Bring out actions taken by the Government to bring J & K into national mainstream. Discuss pre and post abrogation status of Articles 370 and 35A. Also bring out positive impacts of abrogation of both articles in mainstreaming the state.2026 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Jammu and Kashmir, Separatism and Articles 370/35A
Discuss counterfeit currency and money laundering as major sources of terror funding in India. State the actions being taken at International level to check these menaces. Highlight the role of Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and methods of compliance by its member states in preventing terror funding.2026 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Terror Funding, Counterfeit Currency, Money Laundering and FATF
Distinguish between the Human Development Index (HDI) and Inequality-adjusted Human Development Index (IHDI) with special reference to India. Why is the IHDI considered a better indicator of inclusive growth?2025 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Human Development Index
What are the challenges before the Indian economy when the world is moving away from free trade and multilateralism to protectionism and bilateralism? How can these challenges be met?2025 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Protectionism and Bilateralism
Explain the factors influencing the decision of the farmers on the selection of high value crops in India.2025 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · High Value Crops
Elaborate the scope and significance of supply chain management of agricultural commodities in India.2025 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Supply Chain Management
The fusion energy programme in India has steadily evolved over the past few decades. Mention India’s contributions to the international fusion energy project – International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER). What will be the implications of the success of this project for the future of global energy?2025 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Fusion Energy and ITER
How can India achieve energy independence through clean technology by 2047? How can biotechnology play a crucial role in this endeavour?2025 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Clean Technology and Biotechnology
What is Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage (CCUS)? What is the potential role of CCUS in tackling climate change?2025 · Mains GS3 · Environment · Carbon Capture Utilization and Storage
Seawater intrusion in the coastal aquifers is a major concern in India. What are the causes of seawater intrusion and the remedial measures to combat this hazard?2025 · Mains GS3 · Environment · Seawater Intrusion
Terrorism is a global scourge. How has it manifested in India? Elaborate with contemporary examples. What are the counter measures adopted by the State?2025 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Terrorism
The Government of India recently stated that Left Wing Extremism (LWE) will be eliminated by 2026. What do you understand by LWE and how are the people affected by it? What measures have been taken by the government to eliminate LWE?2025 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Left Wing Extremism
Explain how the Fiscal Health Index (FHI) can be used as a tool for assessing the fiscal performance of states in India. In what way would it encourage the states to adopt prudent and sustainable fiscal policies?2025 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Fiscal Health Index
Discuss the rationale of the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme. What are its achievements? In what way can the functioning and outcomes of the scheme be improved?2025 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Production Linked Incentive Scheme
Examine the factors responsible for depleting groundwater in India. What are the steps taken by the government to mitigate such depletion?2025 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Groundwater Depletion
Examine the scope of the food processing industries in India. Elaborate the measures taken by the government in this sector for generating employment opportunities.2025 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Food Processing Industries
How does nanotechnology offer significant advancements in agriculture? How can this technology help to uplift the socio-economic status of farmers?2025 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Nanotechnology in Agriculture
India aims to become a semiconductor manufacturing hub. What are the challenges faced by the sector in India? Mention the salient features of the India Semiconductor Mission.2025 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Semiconductor Manufacturing
Mineral resources are fundamental to the country’s economy and these are exploited by mining. Why is mining considered an environmental hazard? Explain the remedial measures required to reduce the environmental hazard due to mining.2025 · Mains GS3 · Environment · Mining and Environmental Hazards
Write a review on India’s climate commitments under the Paris Agreement (2015) and mention how these have been further strengthened in COP26 (2021). In this direction, how has the first Nationally Determined Contribution intended by India been updated in 2022?2025 · Mains GS3 · Environment · India Climate Commitments
What are the major challenges to internal security and peace process in the North-Eastern States? Map the various peace accords and agreements initiated by the government in the past decade.2025 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · North East Peace Process
Why is maritime security vital to protect India’s sea trade? Discuss maritime and coastal security challenges and the way forward.2025 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Maritime Security
Examine post-reform public expenditure on social services in India and its consonance with inclusive growth.2024 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Public Expenditure
What causes persistent high food inflation in India? Comment on RBI monetary policy for controlling such inflation.2024 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Food Inflation
What factors enabled successful implementation of land reforms in some parts of India?2024 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Land Reforms
Explain the role of millets in ensuring health and nutritional security in India.2024 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Millets and Nutrition
Discuss the world IPR scenario for life materials and why India has low commercialisation despite high patent filing.2024 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Intellectual Property Rights
What technology is used for electronic toll collection? Explain its advantages, limits, proposed seamless changes and risks.2024 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Electronic Toll Collection
Industrial river pollution is significant in India. Discuss mitigation measures and government initiatives.2024 · Mains GS3 · Environment · River Pollution
What role do environmental NGOs and activists play in influencing EIA outcomes for major projects in India?2024 · Mains GS3 · Environment · Environmental Impact Assessment
Explain how narco-terrorism has emerged as a threat in India and suggest measures to counter it.2024 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Narco-Terrorism
Describe the context and salient features of the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023.2024 · Mains GS3 · Governance · Digital Personal Data Protection
Discuss merits and demerits of the four labour codes and progress in labour-market reform.2024 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Labour Codes
Why is regional air connectivity needed? Discuss the UDAN scheme and its achievements.2024 · Mains GS3 · Economy · UDAN Scheme
What major challenges does India’s irrigation system face, and what measures have been taken for efficient irrigation management?2024 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Irrigation
Elucidate the importance of buffer stocks for stabilising agricultural prices and the challenges of storage.2024 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Buffer Stocks
Discuss three alternative technologies that can address the global shortage of clean and safe freshwater.2024 · Mains GS3 · Environment · Freshwater Technologies
What are asteroids, how real is the extinction threat, and what strategies exist to prevent such catastrophe?2024 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Asteroids
Define disaster resilience, describe its elements, and mention global Sendai Framework targets.2024 · Mains GS3 · Disaster Management · Disaster Resilience and Sendai Framework
Discuss causes of urban flooding, features of two major Indian urban floods, and policies/frameworks to tackle them.2024 · Mains GS3 · Disaster Management · Urban Flooding
Examine India’s border issues with China and Pakistan and development under BADP and BIM schemes.2024 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Border Security
Social media and encrypted messaging services pose security challenges. Discuss measures adopted and suggest remedies.2024 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Social Media and Encrypted Messaging
Faster economic growth requires a higher manufacturing share in GDP, especially MSMEs. Comment on current government policies.2023 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Manufacturing and MSMEs
Examine the status of digitalisation in the Indian economy, the problems faced and possible improvements.2023 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Digital Economy
How does e-technology help farmers in production and marketing of agricultural produce?2023 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · E-Technology in Agriculture
State the objectives and measures of land reforms in India and assess land ceiling as an effective economic reform.2023 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Land Reforms
Introduce Artificial Intelligence and explain its role in clinical diagnosis. What privacy threats can arise from AI in healthcare?2023 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · AI in Healthcare
Discuss ways in which microorganisms can help meet the current fuel shortage.2023 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Microorganisms and Fuel
Analyse causes of catastrophic dam failures and give examples of major dam failures.2023 · Mains GS3 · Disaster Management · Dam Safety
What is oil pollution? Explain its impact on marine ecosystems and why it is especially harmful for India.2023 · Mains GS3 · Environment · Oil Pollution
Winning hearts and minds is essential in terrorism-affected areas. Discuss government measures for conflict resolution in Jammu and Kashmir.2023 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Counter Terrorism
Use of UAVs by adversaries for arms, ammunition and drugs is a security threat. Comment on measures to tackle it.2023 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · UAV Security Threats
Most unemployment in India is structural. Examine the methodology used to compute unemployment and suggest improvements.2023 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Structural Unemployment
Distinguish care economy from monetised economy and explain how women’s empowerment can monetise care work.2023 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Care Economy
Explain changes in Indian cropping patterns in the context of changing consumption patterns and marketing conditions.2023 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Cropping Pattern
Discuss direct and indirect farm subsidies in India and WTO-related concerns about agricultural subsidies.2023 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Agricultural Subsidies
How do electric vehicles reduce carbon emissions, and what key benefits do they offer over combustion-engine vehicles?2023 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Electric Vehicles
Explain the main task of India’s third Moon mission, countries that achieved it, and the spacecraft system/launch-control role.2023 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Chandrayaan Mission
Comment on India’s National Wetland Conservation Programme and name important Ramsar wetlands.2023 · Mains GS3 · Environment · Wetland Conservation
Assess the impact of projected sea-level rise on India and other countries in the Indian Ocean region.2023 · Mains GS3 · Environment · Sea Level Rise
What internal security challenges does India face? Explain the role of central intelligence and investigative agencies.2023 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Internal Security Challenges
Identify major sources of terror funding in India and efforts to curb them, including the No Money for Terror conference.2023 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Terror Funding
Why is Public Private Partnership required in infrastructural projects? Examine the role of PPP model in the redevelopment of Railway Stations in India.2022 · Mains GS3 · Economy · PPP Infrastructure
Is inclusive growth possible under market economy? State the significance of financial inclusion in achieving economic growth in India.2022 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Inclusive Growth
What are the major challenges of Public Distribution System in India? How can it be made effective and transparent?2022 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Public Distribution System
Elaborate the scope and significance of the food processing industry in India.2022 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Food Processing
The increase in life expectancy in the country has led to newer health challenges in the community. What are those challenges and what steps need to be taken to meet them?2022 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Health and Ageing
Each year a large amount of plant material, cellulose, is deposited on the surface of planet Earth. What natural processes does this cellulose undergo before yielding carbon dioxide, water and other end products?2022 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Cellulose Decomposition
Discuss in detail photochemical smog, emphasising its formation, effects and mitigation. Explain the 1999 Gothenburg Protocol.2022 · Mains GS3 · Environment · Photochemical Smog and Gothenburg Protocol
Explain the mechanism and occurrence of cloudburst in the context of the Indian subcontinent. Discuss two recent examples.2022 · Mains GS3 · Disaster Management · Cloudburst
Discuss the types of organised crime. Describe the linkages between terrorists and organised crime at national and transnational levels.2022 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Organised Crime
What are the maritime security challenges in India? Discuss organisational, technical and procedural initiatives taken to improve maritime security.2022 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Maritime Security
Economic growth in the recent past has been led by increase in labour productivity. Explain this statement. Suggest the growth pattern that will lead to creation of more jobs without compromising labour productivity.2022 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Labour Productivity
Do you think India will meet 50 percent of its energy needs from renewable energy by 2030? Justify your answer. How will shifting subsidies from fossil fuels to renewables help achieve this objective?2022 · Mains GS3 · Environment · Renewable Energy
What are the main bottlenecks in upstream and downstream process of marketing agricultural products in India?2022 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Agricultural Marketing
What is Integrated Farming System? How is it helpful to small and marginal farmers in India?2022 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Integrated Farming System
Launched on 25 December 2021, James Webb Space Telescope has been much in news since then. What are its unique features that make it superior to predecessor space telescopes? What are the key goals and potential benefits of this mission?2022 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · James Webb Space Telescope
What is the basic principle behind vaccine development? How do vaccines work? What approaches were adopted by Indian vaccine manufacturers to produce COVID-19 vaccines?2022 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Vaccine Development
Discuss global warming and mention its effects on global climate. Explain control measures to bring down greenhouse gases in light of the Kyoto Protocol, 1997.2022 · Mains GS3 · Environment · Global Warming and Kyoto Protocol
Explain the causes and effects of coastal erosion in India. What coastal management techniques are available for combating the hazard?2022 · Mains GS3 · Environment · Coastal Erosion
What are the different elements of cyber security? Keeping in view the challenges in cyber security, examine the extent to which India has successfully developed a comprehensive National Cyber Security Strategy.2022 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Cyber Security
Naxalism is a social, economic and developmental issue manifesting as a violent internal security threat. Discuss the emerging issues and suggest a multilayered strategy to tackle the menace of Naxalism.2022 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Naxalism
Explain the difference between the computing methodology of India’s Gross Domestic Product before the year 2015 and after the year 2015.2021 · Mains GS3 · Economy · GDP Methodology
Distinguish between Capital Budget and Revenue Budget. Explain the components of both these Budgets.2021 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Capital and Revenue Budget
How did land reforms in some parts of the country help to improve the socio-economic conditions of marginal and small farmers?2021 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Land Reforms
How and to what extent would micro-irrigation help in solving India’s water crisis?2021 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Micro Irrigation
How is the S-400 air defence system technically superior to any other system presently available in the world?2021 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · S-400 Air Defence
Explain the purpose of the Green Grid Initiative launched at the World Leaders Summit of the COP26 UN Climate Change Conference in Glasgow in November 2021. When was this idea first floated in the International Solar Alliance?2021 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Green Grid Initiative
Describe the key points of the revised Global Air Quality Guidelines recently released by the World Health Organisation. How are these different from its last update in 2005? What changes in India’s National Clean Air Programme are required to achieve these revised standards?2021 · Mains GS3 · Environment · WHO Air Quality Guidelines 2021
Discuss the vulnerability of India to earthquake-related hazards. Give examples including the salient features of major disasters caused by earthquakes in different parts of India during the last three decades.2021 · Mains GS3 · Disaster Management · Earthquake Hazards
Discuss how emerging technologies and globalisation contribute to money laundering. Elaborate measures to tackle the problem of money laundering both at national and international levels.2021 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Money Laundering
Keeping in view India’s internal security, analyse the impact of cross-border cyber attacks. Also, discuss defensive measures against these sophisticated attacks.2021 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Cyber Security
Do you agree that the Indian economy has recently experienced V-shaped recovery? Give reasons in support of your answer.2021 · Mains GS3 · Economy · V Shaped Recovery
Investment in infrastructure is essential for more rapid and inclusive economic growth. Discuss in the light of India’s experience.2021 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Infrastructure Investment
What are the salient features of the National Food Security Act, 2013? How has the Food Security Bill helped in eliminating hunger and malnutrition in India?2021 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · National Food Security Act 2013
What are the present challenges before crop diversification? How do emerging technologies provide an opportunity for crop diversification?2021 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Crop Diversification
What are the research and developmental achievements in applied biotechnology? How will these achievements help to uplift the poorer sections of society?2021 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Applied Biotechnology
The Nobel Prize in Physics of 2014 was jointly awarded for the invention of Blue LEDs in the 1990s. How has this invention impacted the everyday life of human beings?2021 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Blue LEDs
Describe the major outcomes of the 26th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. What are the commitments made by India at this conference?2021 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · COP26
Describe the various causes and effects of landslides. Mention the important components of the National Landslide Risk Management Strategy.2021 · Mains GS3 · Disaster Management · Landslide Risk Management
Analyse the multidimensional challenges posed by external state and non-state actors to the internal security of India. Also discuss measures required to combat these threats.2021 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Internal Security Threats
Analyse the complexity and intensity of terrorism, its causes, linkages and obnoxious nexus. Also suggest measures required to eradicate the menace of terrorism.2021 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Terrorism
Explain intra-generational and inter-generational issues of equity from the perspective of inclusive growth and sustainable development.2020 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Inclusive Growth
Define potential GDP and explain its determinants. What are the factors that have been inhibiting India from realizing its potential GDP?2020 · Mains GS3 · Economy · GDP
What are the main constraints in transport and marketing of agricultural produce in India?2020 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Agricultural Marketing Constraints
What are the challenges and opportunities of food processing sector in the country? How can the income of the farmers be substantially increased by encouraging food processing?2020 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Food Processing
What do you understand by nanotechnology and how is it helping in the health sector?2020 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Nanotechnology
How is science interwoven deeply with our lives? What are the striking changes in agriculture triggered off by the science-based technologies?2020 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Science in Agriculture
How does the draft Environment Impact Assessment Notification, 2020 differ from the existing EIA Notification, 2006?2020 · Mains GS3 · Environment · Draft EIA Notification 2020
What are the salient features of the Jal Shakti Abhiyan launched by the Government of India for water conservation and water security?2020 · Mains GS3 · Environment · Jal Shakti Abhiyan
Discuss different types of cybercrimes and measures required to be taken to fight the menace.2020 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Cybercrime
For effective border area management, discuss the steps required to be taken to deny local support to militants and also suggest ways to manage favourable perception among locals.2020 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Border Area Management
Explain the meaning of investment in an economy in terms of capital formation. Discuss the factors to be considered while designing a concession agreement between a public entity and a private entity.2020 · Mains GS3 · Economy · PPP Concession Agreements
Explain the rationale behind the Goods and Services Tax (Compensation to States) Act of 2017. How has COVID-19 impacted the GST compensation fund and created new federal tensions?2020 · Mains GS3 · Economy · COVID-19
What are the major factors responsible for making rice-wheat system a success? In spite of this success, how has this system become bane in India?2020 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Rice-Wheat Cropping System
Suggest measures to improve water storage and irrigation system to make its judicious use under depleting scenario.2020 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Water Storage & Irrigation Efficiency
COVID-19 pandemic has caused unprecedented devastation worldwide. However, technological advancements are being availed readily to win over the crisis. Give an account of how technology was sought to aid management of the pandemic.2020 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · COVID-19
Describe the benefits of deriving electric energy from sunlight in contrast to the conventional energy generation. What are the initiatives offered by our Government for this purpose?2020 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Solar Energy
What are the key features of the National Clean Air Programme initiated by the Government of India?2020 · Mains GS3 · Environment · National Clean Air Programme
Discuss the recent measures initiated in disaster management by the Government of India departing from the earlier reactive approach.2020 · Mains GS3 · Disaster Management · Disaster Management — Proactive Approach
What are the determinants of left-wing extremism in Eastern part of India? What strategy should Government of India, civil administration and security forces adopt to counter the threat in the affected areas?2020 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Left Wing Extremism
Analyse internal security threats and transborder crimes along Myanmar, Bangladesh and Pakistan borders including Line of Control. Also, discuss the role played by various security forces in this regard.2020 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Transborder Security Threats
Enumerate the indirect taxes which have been subsumed in the Goods and Services Tax in India. Also, comment on the revenue implications of the GST introduced in India in July 2017.2019 · Mains GS3 · Economy · GST
Do you agree with the view that steady GDP growth and low inflation have left the Indian economy in good shape? Give reasons in support of your arguments.2019 · Mains GS3 · Economy · GDP
How far is the Integrated Farming System helpful in sustaining agricultural production?2019 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Integrated Farming
Elaborate on the impact of the National Watershed Project in increasing agricultural production from water-stressed areas.2019 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Watershed
How did India benefit from the contributions of Sir M. Visvesvaraya and Dr. M. S. Swaminathan in the fields of water engineering and agricultural science respectively?2019 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Science and Engineering
What is India's plan to have its own space station and how will it benefit our space programme?2019 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Space Programme
Coastal sand mining, whether legal or illegal, poses one of the biggest threats to our environment. Analyze the impact of sand mining along the Indian coasts, citing specific examples.2019 · Mains GS3 · Environment · Coastal Sand Mining
Vulnerability is an essential element for defining disaster impacts and its threat to people. How and in what ways can vulnerability to disasters be characterized? Discuss different types of vulnerability with reference to disasters.2019 · Mains GS3 · Disaster Management · Disaster Vulnerability
The banning of Jamaat-e-Islami in Jammu and Kashmir brought into focus the role of over-ground workers in assisting terrorist organizations. Examine the role played by over-ground workers in assisting terrorist organizations in insurgency-affected areas. Discuss measures to neutralize the influence of over-ground workers.2019 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · The Banning Of Jamaat-e-islami
What is the CyberDome Project? Explain how it can be useful in controlling internet crimes in India.2019 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Cyber Security
It is argued that the strategy of inclusive growth is intended to meet the objectives of inclusiveness and sustainability together. Comment on this statement.2019 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Inclusive Growth
Public expenditure management is a challenge to the Government of India in the context of budget-making during the post-liberalization period. Clarify it.2019 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Public Finance
What are the reformative steps taken by the government to make the food grain distribution system more effective?2019 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Food Security
Elaborate on the policy taken by the Government of India to meet the challenges of the food processing sector.2019 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Food Processing
How is the Government of India protecting traditional knowledge of medicine from patenting by pharmaceutical companies?2019 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Traditional Knowledge Digital Library
How can biotechnology improve the living standards of farmers?2019 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Agricultural Biotechnology
Define the concept of carrying capacity of an ecosystem as relevant to environment. Explain how understanding this concept is vital while planning for sustainable development of a region.2019 · Mains GS3 · Environment · Carrying Capacity
Disaster preparedness is the first step in any disaster management process. Explain how hazard zonation mapping will help in disaster mitigation in the case of landslides.2019 · Mains GS3 · Disaster Management · Disaster Preparedness Is The
The Indian government has recently strengthened the anti-terrorism laws by amending the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 and the NIA Act. Analyze the changes in the context of the prevailing security environment while discussing the scope and reasons for opposing the UAPA by human rights organizations.2019 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Anti-terror Laws
The cross-border movement of insurgents is only one of the several security challenges facing the policing of the border in North-East India. Examine the various challenges currently emanating across the India-Myanmar border. Also, discuss the steps to counter the challenges.2019 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Border Security
Access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy is a sine qua non to achieve Sustainable Development Goals. Comment on the progress made in India in this regard.2018 · Mains GS3 · General Studies · Energy and SDGs
Comment on the important changes introduced with respect to Long-term Capital Gains Tax and Dividend Distribution Tax in the Union Budget for 2018-2019.2018 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Capital Gains Tax
What do you mean by Minimum Support Price (MSP)? How will MSP rescue farmers from low-income traps?2018 · Mains GS3 · Economy · MSP
Examine the role of supermarkets in the supply chain management of fruits, vegetables and food items. How do they eliminate the number of intermediaries?2018 · Mains GS3 · General Studies · Supply Chain
Discuss the work of Bose-Einstein Statistics done by Prof. Satyendra Nath Bose and show how it revolutionized the field of physics.2018 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Bose Einstein Statistics
What are the impediments in disposing of the huge quantities of discarded solid wastes that are continuously being generated? How do we remove safely the toxic wastes accumulating in our habitable environment?2018 · Mains GS3 · Environment · Solid Waste
What is wetland? Explain the Ramsar concept of wise use in the context of wetland conservation. Cite two examples of Ramsar sites from India.2018 · Mains GS3 · Environment · Wetlands
Sikkim is the first Organic State in India. What are the ecological and economic benefits of an Organic State?2018 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Organic State
The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is viewed as a cardinal subset of China’s larger One Belt One Road initiative. Give a brief description of CPEC and enumerate reasons why India has distanced itself from the same.2018 · Mains GS3 · International Relations · CPEC
Left-wing extremism is showing a downward trend but still affects many parts of the country. Briefly explain the Government of India’s approach to counter the challenges posed by LWE.2018 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Left Wing Extremism
How are the principles followed by NITI Aayog different from those followed by the erstwhile Planning Commission in India?2018 · Mains GS3 · Economy · NITI Aayog
How would recent phenomena of protectionism and currency manipulations in world trade affect macroeconomic stability of India?2018 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Protectionism
Assess the role of National Horticulture Mission in boosting production, productivity and income of horticulture farms. How far has it succeeded in increasing farmer income?2018 · Mains GS3 · Economy · National Horticulture Mission
How has the emphasis on certain crops brought about changes in cropping patterns in the recent past? Elaborate on the emphasis on millet production and consumption.2018 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Millets
Why is there so much activity in the field of biotechnology in our country? How has this activity benefitted the field of biopharma?2018 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Biotechnology
With growing energy needs, should India keep on extending its nuclear energy programme? Discuss the facts and fears associated with nuclear energy.2018 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Nuclear Energy
How does biodiversity vary in India? How is the Biological Diversity Act, 2002 helpful in conservation of flora and fauna?2018 · Mains GS3 · Environment · Biodiversity Act
Describe various measures taken in India for Disaster Risk Reduction before and after signing the Sendai Framework for DRR. How is this framework different from the Hyogo Framework for Action?2018 · Mains GS3 · Disaster Management · Disaster Risk Reduction
Data security has assumed significant importance in the digitized world due to rising cybercrimes. What are the strengths and weaknesses of the Justice B. N. Srikrishna Committee Report relating to protection of personal data in cyberspace?2018 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Data Security
India’s proximity to two of the world’s biggest illicit opium-growing states has enhanced her internal security concerns. Explain linkages between drug trafficking and gunrunning, money laundering and human trafficking. What countermeasures should be taken?2018 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Drug Trafficking
Among several factors for India’s potential growth, the savings rate is the most effective one. Do you agree? What are the other factors available for growth potential?2017 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Savings Rate
Account for the failure of the manufacturing sector in achieving the goal of labour-intensive exports rather than capital-intensive exports. Suggest measures for more labour-intensive exports.2017 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Manufacturing Exports
Examine the development of airports in India through joint ventures under the Public-Private Partnership model. What are the challenges faced by the authorities in this regard?2017 · Mains GS3 · General Studies · Airport PPP
Explain various types of revolutions that took place in agriculture after Independence in India. How have these revolutions helped in poverty alleviation and food security in India?2017 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Agricultural Revolutions
What are the reasons for poor acceptance of cost-effective small processing units? How will food processing units be helpful to uplift the socio-economic status of poor farmers?2017 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Food Processing
Stem cell therapy is gaining popularity in India to treat a wide variety of medical conditions including leukaemia, thalassemia, damaged cornea and several burns. Describe briefly what stem cell therapy is and what advantages it has over other treatments.2017 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Stem Cell Therapy
India has achieved remarkable successes in unmanned space missions including Chandrayaan and Mars Orbiter Mission, but has not ventured into manned space mission. Explain critically in terms of technology and logistics.2017 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Manned Space Mission
Not many years ago, river linking was a concept but it is becoming reality in the country. Discuss the advantages of river linking and its possible impact on the environment.2017 · Mains GS3 · Environment · River Linking
Discuss the potential threats of cyberattack and the security framework to prevent it.2017 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Cyber Security
The north-eastern region of India has been infested with insurgency for a very long time. Analyze the major reasons for survival of armed insurgency in this region.2017 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · North East Insurgency
One of the intended objectives of Union Budget 2017-18 is to transform, energize and clean India. Analyse the measures proposed in the Budget 2017-18 to achieve this objective.2017 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Union Budget 2017 18
Industrial growth rate has lagged behind in the overall growth of GDP in the post-reform period. Give reasons. How far are the recent changes in Industrial Policy capable of increasing the industrial growth rate?2017 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Industrial Growth
What are the salient features of inclusive growth? Has India been experiencing such a growth process? Analyze and suggest measures for inclusive growth.2017 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Inclusive Growth
What are the major reasons for declining rice and wheat yield in the cropping system? How is crop diversification helpful to stabilize yield in the system?2017 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Crop Diversification
How do subsidies affect the cropping pattern, crop diversity and economy of farmers? What is the significance of crop insurance, minimum support price and food processing for small and marginal farmers?2017 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Agricultural Subsidies
Give an account of the growth and development of nuclear science and technology in India. What is the advantage of the fast breeder reactor programme in India?2017 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Nuclear Technology
Climate change is a global problem. How will India be affected by climate change? How will Himalayan and coastal states of India be affected by climate change?2017 · Mains GS3 · Environment · Climate Change
In December 2004, tsunami brought havoc in 14 countries including India. Discuss the factors responsible for the occurrence of tsunami and its effects on life and economy. In the light of NDMA guidelines, describe mechanisms for preparedness to reduce risk during such events.2017 · Mains GS3 · Disaster Management · Tsunami Disaster Management
Mob violence is emerging as a serious law and order problem in India. By giving suitable examples, analyze the causes and consequences of such violence.2017 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Mob Violence
The scourge of terrorism is a grave challenge to national security. What solutions do you suggest to curb this growing menace? What are the major sources of terrorist funding?2017 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Terrorism Funding
How has globalization led to the reduction of employment in the formal sector of the Indian economy? Is increased informalization detrimental to the development of the country?2016 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Globalisation and Informalisation
Women empowerment in India needs gender budgeting. What are the requirements and status of gender budgeting in the Indian context?2016 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Gender Budgeting
Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana is necessary for bringing the unbanked to the institutional finance fold. Do you agree with this for financial inclusion of the poor section of Indian society? Give arguments to justify your opinion.2016 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Financial Inclusion
What are Smart Cities? Examine their relevance for urban development in India. Will they increase rural-urban differences? Give arguments for Smart Villages in the light of PURA and RURBAN Mission.2016 · Mains GS3 · Urbanization · Smart Cities and Smart Villages
Justify the need for FDI for the development of the Indian economy. Why is there a gap between MOUs signed and actual FDIs? Suggest remedial steps to be taken for increasing actual FDIs in India.2016 · Mains GS3 · Economy · FDI
Comment on the challenges for inclusive growth which include careless and useless manpower in the Indian context. Suggest measures to be taken for facing these challenges.2016 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Inclusive Growth and Manpower
What is water-use efficiency? Describe the role of micro-irrigation in increasing water-use efficiency.2016 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Water-use Efficiency
What is allelopathy? Discuss its role in major cropping systems of irrigated agriculture.2016 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Allelopathy
Discuss the role of land reforms in agricultural development. Identify the factors that were responsible for the success of land reforms in India.2016 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Land Reforms
Given the vulnerability of Indian agriculture to vagaries of nature, discuss the need for crop insurance and bring out the salient features of Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana.2016 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Crop Insurance
Give an account of the current status and the targets to be achieved pertaining to renewable energy sources in the country. Discuss in brief the importance of National Programme on Light Emitting Diodes.2016 · Mains GS3 · Energy · Renewable Energy
Discuss India’s achievements in the field of Space Science and Technology. How has the application of this technology helped India in its socio-economic development?2016 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Space Technology
Why is nanotechnology one of the key technologies of the 21st century? Describe the salient features of Indian Government’s Mission on Nanoscience and Technology and the scope of its application in the development process of the country.2016 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Nanotechnology
Rehabilitation of human settlements is one of the important environmental impacts which always attracts controversy while planning major projects. Discuss the measures suggested for mitigation of this impact while proposing major developmental projects.2016 · Mains GS3 · Environment · Rehabilitation and Resettlement
The frequency of urban floods due to high intensity rainfall is increasing over the years. Discussing the reasons for urban floods, highlight the mechanisms for preparedness to reduce the risk during such events.2016 · Mains GS3 · Disaster Management · Urban Floods
With reference to National Disaster Management Authority guidelines, discuss the measures to be adopted to mitigate the impact of recent incidents of cloudbursts in many places of Uttarakhand.2016 · Mains GS3 · Disaster Management · Cloudbursts
The terms Hot Pursuit and Surgical Strikes are often used in connection with armed action against terrorist attacks. Discuss the strategic impact of such actions.2016 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Hot Pursuit and Surgical Strikes
Terrorism is emerging as a competitive industry over the last few decades. Analyse the above statement.2016 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Terrorism
Border management is a complex task due to difficult terrain and hostile relations with some countries. Elucidate the challenges and strategies for effective border management.2016 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Border Management
Use of internet and social media by non-state actors for subversive activities is a major security concern. How have these been misused in the recent past? Suggest effective guidelines to curb the above threat.2016 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Internet and Social Media Misuse
The nature of economic growth in India in recent times is often described as a jobless growth. Do you agree with this view? Give arguments in favour of your answer.2015 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Jobless Growth
Livestock rearing has a big potential for providing non-farm employment and income in rural areas. Discuss suggesting suitable measures to promote this sector in India.2015 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Livestock Rearing
In view of the declining average size of land holdings in India, which has made agriculture non-viable for a majority of farmers, should contract farming and land leasing be promoted in agriculture? Critically evaluate the pros and cons.2015 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Contract Farming and Land Leasing
How can the Digital India programme help farmers to improve farm productivity and income? What steps has the government taken in this regard?2015 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Digital India and Farmers
In what way could replacement of price subsidy with Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) change the scenario of subsidies in India? Discuss.2015 · Mains GS3 · Economy · DBT and Subsidies
What are the impediments in marketing and supply chain management in developing the food processing industry in India? Can e-commerce help in overcoming this bottleneck?2015 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Food Processing
Craze for gold in India has led to surge in import of gold in recent years and put pressure on balance of payments and external value of rupee. In view of this, examine the merits of Gold Monetization Scheme.2015 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Gold Monetization Scheme
Success of Make in India programme depends on the success of Skill India programme and radical labour reforms. Discuss with logical arguments.2015 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Make in India and Skill India
To what factors can the recent dramatic fall in equipment cost and tariff of solar energy be attributed? What implications does the trend have for thermal power producers and related industry?2015 · Mains GS3 · Energy · Solar Energy
There is a clear acknowledgement that Special Economic Zones are a tool of industrial development, manufacturing and exports. Recognising this potential, the whole instrumentality of SEZs requires augmentation. Discuss the issues plaguing the success of SEZs with respect to taxation, governing laws and administration.2015 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Special Economic Zones
What do you understand by Standard Positioning System and Precision Positioning System in the GPS era? Discuss the advantage India perceives from its ambitious IRNSS programme employing just seven satellites.2015 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · GPS and IRNSS
What are the areas of prohibitive labour that can be sustainably managed by robots? Discuss the initiatives that can propel research in premier research institutes for substantive and gainful innovation.2015 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Robotics
Discuss the advantages and security implications of cloud hosting of servers vis-a-vis in-house machine-based hosting for government business.2015 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Cloud Hosting
India’s Traditional Knowledge Digital Library, which has a database containing formatted information on more than two million medicinal formulations, is proving a powerful weapon in the country’s fight against erroneous patents. Discuss the pros and cons of making the database available publicly under open-source licensing.2015 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Traditional Knowledge Digital Library
Discuss the Namami Gange and National Mission for Clean Ganga programmes and causes of mixed results from previous schemes. What quantum leaps can help preserve the river Ganga better than incremental inputs?2015 · Mains GS3 · Environment · Namami Gange
The frequency of earthquakes appears to have increased in the Indian subcontinent. However, India’s preparedness for mitigating their impact has significant gaps. Discuss various aspects.2015 · Mains GS3 · Disaster Management · Earthquake Preparedness
Human rights activists constantly highlight that the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 is a draconian act leading to cases of human rights abuses by security forces. What sections of AFSPA are opposed by activists? Critically evaluate the requirement with reference to the view held by the Apex Court.2015 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · AFSPA
Religious indoctrination via social media has resulted in Indian youth joining ISIS. What is ISIS and its mission? How can ISIS be dangerous to the internal security of our country?2015 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · ISIS and Radicalisation
The persisting drives of the government for development of large industries in backward areas have resulted in isolating the tribal population and farmers who face multiple displacements. With Malkangiri and Naxalbari foci, discuss the corrective strategies needed to win the Left Wing Extremism doctrine affected citizens back into the mainstream of social and economic growth.2015 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Left Wing Extremism
Considering the threats cyberspace poses for the country, India needs a Digital Armed Forces to prevent crimes. Critically evaluate the National Cyber Security Policy, 2013 outlining the challenges perceived in its effective implementation.2015 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Cyber Security
Normally countries shift from agriculture to industry and then later to services, but India shifted directly from agriculture to services. What are the reasons for the huge growth of services vis-à-vis industry in the country? Can India become a developed country without a strong industrial base?2014 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Services vs Industry
While we flaunt India’s demographic dividend, we ignore the dropping rates of employability. What are we missing while doing so? Where will the jobs that India desperately needs come from? Explain.2014 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Employability
There is also a point of view that Agricultural Produce Market Committees set up under State Acts have not only impeded the development of agriculture but also have been the cause of food inflation in India. Critically examine.2014 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · APMC and Food Inflation
In the villages itself no form of credit organization will be suitable except the cooperative society. Discuss this statement in the background of agricultural finance in India. What constraints and challenges do financial institutions supplying agricultural finance face? How can technology be used to better reach and serve rural clients?2014 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Agricultural Finance
The Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013 has come into effect from 1st January 2014. What are the key issues which would get addressed with the Act in place? What implications would it have on industrialization and agriculture in India?2014 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Land Acquisition Act
Capitalism has guided the world economy to unprecedented prosperity. However, it often encourages short-sightedness and contributes to wide disparities between rich and poor. In this light, would it be correct to believe and adopt capitalism for bringing inclusive growth in India? Discuss.2014 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Capitalism and Inclusive Growth
Explain how Public Private Partnership arrangements, in long gestation infrastructure projects, can transfer unsustainable liabilities to the future. What arrangements need to be put in place to ensure that successive generations’ capacities are not compromised?2014 · Mains GS3 · Infrastructure · PPP Liabilities
National Urban Transport Policy emphasises on moving people instead of moving vehicles. Discuss critically the success of various strategies of the Government in this regard.2014 · Mains GS3 · Infrastructure · Urban Transport
Foreign Direct Investment in the defence sector is now set to be liberalized. What influence is this expected to have on Indian defence and economy in the short and long run?2014 · Mains GS3 · Economy · FDI in Defence
Scientific research in Indian universities is declining because a career in science is not as attractive as business professions, engineering or administration, and universities are becoming consumer-oriented. Critically comment.2014 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Scientific Research
Can overuse and free availability of antibiotics without doctor’s prescription be contributors to the emergence of drug-resistant diseases in India? What are the available mechanisms for monitoring and control? Critically discuss the issues involved.2014 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Drug Resistance
In a globalized world, Intellectual Property Rights assume significance and are a source of litigation. Broadly distinguish between copyrights, patents and trade secrets.2014 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · IPR
Should the pursuit of carbon credits and clean development mechanisms set up under UNFCCC be maintained even though there has been a massive slide in the value of carbon credit? Discuss with respect to India’s energy need for economic growth.2014 · Mains GS3 · Environment · Carbon Credits
Drought has been recognized as a disaster in view of its spatial expanse, temporal duration, slow onset and lasting effects on vulnerable sections. With focus on the September 2010 guidelines from NDMA, discuss the mechanisms for preparedness to deal with likely El Nino and La Nina fallouts in India.2014 · Mains GS3 · Disaster Management · Drought and NDMA
Environmental Impact Assessment studies are increasingly undertaken before a project is cleared by the Government. Discuss the environmental impact of coal-fired thermal plants located at coal pitheads.2014 · Mains GS3 · Environment · EIA and Thermal Plants
The diverse nature of India as a multi-religious and multi-ethnic society is not immune to the impact of radicalism which has been in her neighborhood. Discuss along with strategies to be adopted to counter this environment.2014 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Radicalism
International civil aviation laws provide all countries complete and exclusive sovereignty over the airspace above their territory. What do you understand by airspace? What are the implications of these laws on the space above this airspace? Discuss the challenges and suggest ways to contain the threat.2014 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Airspace
How does illegal trans-border migration pose a threat to India’s security? Discuss the strategies to curb this and bring out the factors which give impetus to such migration.2014 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Illegal Migration
In 2012, the longitudinal marking of the high-risk areas for piracy was moved from 65° East to 78° East in the Arabian Sea by the International Maritime Organisation. What impact does this have on India’s maritime security concerns?2014 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Maritime Piracy
China and Pakistan have entered into an agreement for development of an economic corridor. What threat does it pose for India’s security? Critically examine.2014 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · China-Pakistan Economic Corridor
With a consideration towards the strategy of inclusive growth, the new Companies Bill, 2013 has indirectly made CSR a mandatory obligation. Discuss the challenges expected in its implementation in right earnest. Also discuss other provisions in the Bill and their implications.2013 · Mains GS3 · Economy · CSR and Companies Bill
What were the reasons for the introduction of Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management Act, 2003? Discuss critically its salient features and their effectiveness.2013 · Mains GS3 · Economy · FRBM Act
What is the meaning of the term ‘tax expenditure’? Taking housing sector as an example, discuss how it influences the budgetary policies of the government.2013 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Tax Expenditure
The Food Security Bill is expected to eliminate hunger and malnutrition in India. Critically discuss various apprehensions in its effective implementation along with the concerns it has generated in WTO.2013 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Food Security Bill
What are the different types of agriculture subsidies given to farmers at the national and at state levels? Critically analyse the agricultural subsidy regime with reference to the distortions created by it.2013 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Agriculture Subsidies
India needs to strengthen measures to promote the pink revolution in food industry for ensuring better nutrition and health. Critically elucidate the statement.2013 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Pink Revolution
Examine the impact of liberalization on companies owned by Indians. Are they competing with the MNCs satisfactorily? Discuss.2013 · Mains GS3 · Economy · Liberalization
Establish the relationship between land reforms, agriculture productivity and elimination of poverty in the Indian economy. Discuss the difficulties in designing and implementation of agriculture-friendly land reforms in India.2013 · Mains GS3 · Agriculture · Land Reforms
Discuss the rationale for introducing Goods and Services Tax in India. Bring out critically the reasons for the delay in roll out for its regime.2013 · Mains GS3 · Economy · GST
Write a note on India’s green energy corridor to alleviate the problem of conventional energy.2013 · Mains GS3 · Energy · Green Energy Corridor
Adoption of the PPP model for infrastructure development of the country has not been free of criticism. Critically discuss pros and cons of the model.2013 · Mains GS3 · Infrastructure · PPP Model
Bring out the circumstances in 2005 which forced amendment to section 3(d) in the Indian Patent Law, 1970. Discuss how it has been utilized by Supreme Court in its judgment rejecting Novartis patent application for Glivec. Discuss briefly the pros and cons of the decision.2013 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Patent Law and Glivec
What do you understand by fixed dose drug combinations? Discuss their merits and demerits.2013 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Fixed Dose Combinations
What do you understand by Umpire Decision Review in cricket? Discuss its various components. Explain how silicon tape on the edge of a bat may fool the system.2013 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Decision Review System
What is digital signature? What does its authentication mean? Give various salient built-in features of a digital signature.2013 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · Digital Signature
How does the 3D printing technology work? List out the advantages and disadvantages of the technology.2013 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · 3D Printing
What is an FRP composite material? How are they manufactured? Discuss their applications in aviation and automobile industry.2013 · Mains GS3 · Science & Technology · FRP Composite
What are the consequences of illegal mining? Discuss the Ministry of Environment and Forest’s concept of GO and NO-GO zones for the coal mining sector.2013 · Mains GS3 · Environment · Illegal Mining
Enumerate the National Water Policy of India. Taking river Ganges as an example, discuss the strategies which may be adopted for river water pollution control and management and handling of hazardous wastes in India.2013 · Mains GS3 · Environment · National Water Policy
Article 244 of Indian Constitution relates to administration of Scheduled Areas and Tribal Areas. Analyze the impact of non-implementation of the provisions of Fifth Schedule on the growth of Left Wing Extremism.2013 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Fifth Schedule and LWE
How far are India’s internal security challenges linked with border management, particularly in view of the long porous borders with most countries of South Asia and Myanmar?2013 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Border Management
Money laundering poses a serious threat to country’s economic sovereignty. What is its significance for India and what steps are required to be taken to control this menace?2013 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Money Laundering
What is social networking site and what security implications do these sites present?2013 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Social Networking Sites
Cyber warfare is considered by some defense analysts to be a larger threat than even Al Qaeda or terrorism. What do you understand by Cyber warfare? Outline the cyber threats which India is vulnerable to and bring out the state of the country’s preparedness to deal with the same.2013 · Mains GS3 · Internal Security · Cyber Warfare
How important are vulnerability and risk assessment for pre-disaster management? As an administrator, what are key areas that you would focus on in a disaster management system?2013 · Mains GS3 · Disaster Management · Risk Assessment