UPSC Mains GS 1 Question Paper 2024 – Download PDF

Today is the 2nd day of UPSC Mains 2024. In the first session GS 1 exam has been conducted from 9 AM to 12 PM and in the 2nd session GS 2 exam will be conducted from 2 PM to 5 PM. UPSC Mains GS 1 Question paper 2024 is now out of the exam hall. You can download the PDF or read the questions, written below:

UPSC Mains GS 1 Question Paper 2024 – Download PDF

1) Underline the changes in the field of economy and society from Rig Vedic to later Vedic period (Answer in 150 words) 10
2) Estimate the contribution of Pallavas of Kanchi for the development of Art and literature  of South Indla. Answer in 150 words) 10

3) What were the events that led to the Quit India Movement? Point out its results. (Answer in 150 words) 10

4) What is sea surface temperature rise? How does it affect the formation of tropical cyclones? (Answer in 150 words) 10

5) Why do large cities tend to attract more migrants than smaller towns? Discuss in the light of conditions in developing countries. (Answer in 150 words) 10

6) What is the phenomenon of ‘cloudbursts’? Explain. (Answer in 150 words) 10

7) What is the concept of a ‘demographic winter’? Is the world moving towards such a situation? Elaborate. (Answer in 150 words) 10

8) Distinguish between gender equality, gender equity and women’s empowerment. Why is it important to take gender concerns into account in programme design and implementation? (Answer in 150 words) 10

9) Intercaste marriages between castes which have socio-economic parity have increased, to some extent, but this is less true of interreligious marriages. Discuss. (Answer in 150 words) 10

10) In dealing with socio-economic issues of development, what kind of collaboration between government, NGOs and private sector would be most productive? (Answer in 150 words) 10

11) “Though the great Cholas are no more, yet their name is still remembered with great pride because of their highest achievements in the domain of art and architecture.” Comment. (Answer in 250 words) 15

12) How far is it correct to say that the First World War was fought essentially for the preservation of balance of power? (Answer in 250 words) 15

13) How far was the Industrial Revolution in England responsible for the decline of handicrafts and cottage industries in India? (Answer in 250 words) 15

14) The groundwater potential of the gangetic valley is on a serious decline. How may it affect the food security of India? (Answer in 250 words) 15

15) What are aurora australia and aurora borealis? How are these triggered? (Answer in 250 words) 15

16) What is a twister? Why are the majority of twisters observed in areas around the Gulf of Mexico? (Answer in 250 words) 15

17) What is regional disparity? How does it differ from diversity? How serious is the issue of regional disparity in India?

18) Despite comprehensive policies for equity and social justice, underprivileged sections are not yet getting the full benefits of affirmative action envisaged by the Constitution. Comment. (Answer in 250 words) 15

19) Globalization has increased urban migration by skilled, young, unmarried women from various classes. How has this trend impacted upon their personal freedom and relationship with family? (Answer in 250 words) 15

20) Critically analyse the proposition that there is a high correlation between India’s cultural diversities and socio-economic marginalities. (Answer in 250 words) 15

UPSC Mains GS 1 Syllabus

The GS 1 paper in UPSC Mains covers History, Indian Society, and Geography. It is a comprehensive subject that tests candidates on both factual knowledge and conceptual clarity across various topics. Here’s the breakdown:

1. Indian Heritage and Culture:
   • Salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature, and Architecture from ancient to modern times.
2. History:
   • Modern Indian History from about the mid-18th century until the present, significant events, issues, and personalities.
   • The Freedom Struggle and its various stages.
   • Post-independence consolidation and reorganization within India.
   • World History, including events such as the Industrial Revolution, World Wars, redrawing of national boundaries, colonization, decolonization, and political philosophies like Communism, Capitalism, and Socialism.
3. Indian Society:
   • Structure, features, and challenges of Indian society.
   • Role of women, population issues, urbanization, communalism, regionalism, and secularism.
4. Geography of the World and India:
   • Physical geography, key geographical phenomena (e.g., earthquakes, cyclones), and critical geographical features.
   • Distribution of natural resources and factors responsible for the location of industries.