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GS1-Model Answers-CSE 2023
GS1-Model Answers-CSE 2023
Foreword
We, Shubham Kumar (AIR 1, CSE 2020) and Kartik Jivani (AIR 8, CSE 2020), both alumni
of IIT Bombay and batchmates (IAS 2021), have come together to bring this resource to
you. Leveraging our knowledge of Coding, Artificial Intelligence and UPSC CSE, we aim
to benefit all aspirants.
We present the Model Answers for UPSC CSE 2023 Mains GS Papers. Our goal is to
deliver curated answers using Artificial Intelligence Model, trained on the UPSC syllabus,
with minimal human intervention. We've employed Deep Learning to enhance its accuracy.
It’s not just the chatGPT; it is more than that! We hope you find this resource immensely
helpful in your journey to success.
Best Wishes,
Team Shubham and Kartik
1. Explain the role of geographical factors towards the development of Ancient
India.
Vishnu Purana describes Bharat as the ‘Country that lies North of the Ocean and South of
the Snowy Mountains’. This showcases the importance of geographical features. India’s
diverse and varied landscape, including its climate, topography and natural resources, had a
profound impact on the civilisation, culture and history of the Ancient India.
2. What was the difference between Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore in
their approach towards education and nationalism?
Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore were two prominent figures in India's struggle
for independence from British colonial rule and they had distinct approaches towards
education and nationalism.
The introduction of railways has had a significant impact on the economies and societies of
various countries around the world. These effects have been influenced by factors like when
the railways were built, how extensive they were, and the unique economic and social
conditions of each country.
2. Urbanization:
• Railways spurred urban growth by granting better access to economic opportunities.
• Example: Railway networks in the United States contributed to the expansion of
cities like Chicago and Los Angeles.
3. Improved Accessibility:
• Railways enhanced access to remote areas, fostering economic development and
national integration.
• Example: Canada's transcontinental railway, the Canadian Pacific Railway,
connected coasts, aiding economic development and unity.
4. Agricultural Transformation:
• Railways facilitated agricultural product transport, reducing spoilage and increasing
profits.
• Example: India's extensive railway network benefited farmers and consumers alike.
5. Social Mobility:
• Railways created job opportunities, attracting rural residents to railway-related
industries.
• Example: Post-World War II Japan saw railways as a source of employment and
social mobility.
6. Cultural Exchange:
• Railways promoted cultural exchange and interconnected societies.
• Example: Europe's high-speed rail network facilitated cross-border travel and
cultural exchange.
7. Rural-Urban Migration:
• Railways facilitated rural-urban migration due to improved economic prospects in
cities.
• Example: China's high-speed rail network led to significant rural-to-urban
migration.
8. Environmental Impacts:
• Railway construction and operation could harm ecosystems with habitat disruption
and pollution.
• Example: Australia faced environmental challenges in ecologically sensitive areas
due to railways.
9. Infrastructure Development:
• Railways spurred infrastructure growth, including bridges and stations.
• Example: Spain's high-speed rail network (AVE) necessitated significant
infrastructure investment, boosting construction-related industries.
Way Forward:
By addressing these issues comprehensively, the world can work towards mitigating the
crisis of freshwater availability and access, ensuring a sustainable and equitable water future
for all, thereby securing SDG6 ( Access to Clean Water and Sanitation ).
6. How are the fjords formed? Why do they constitute some of the most picturesque
areas of the world?
Formation of Fjords:
1. Glacial Erosion:
• Fjords are shaped by the erosive
force of glaciers during the last Ice
Age.
• Glaciers carved deep valleys into
bedrock through glacial erosion.
2. U-shaped Valleys:
• Glaciers transformed V-shaped river valleys into U-shaped valleys, the hallmark of
fjords.
• The grinding action of ice removed rock and sediment, creating fjord basins.
3. Glacial Retreat:
• As the climate warmed, glaciers retreated.
• Retreating glaciers left behind U-shaped valleys that filled with seawater, forming
fjords.
• The depth of fjords often reflects extensive glacial erosion.
4. Steep Sides:
• Fjords are characterized by steep cliffs or mountainsides on both sides.
• This steep topography results from glacier erosion and the resistance of surrounding
rock to erosion, adding to fjords' dramatic beauty.
Why Fjords Constitute Some of the Most Picturesque Areas of the World?
1. Scenic Beauty:
• Fjords are known for their stunning landscapes with rugged terrain, towering cliffs,
lush forests, and cascading waterfalls.
• The contrast between deep blue seawater and towering rock formations creates
visually captivating scenery.
2. Biodiversity:
• Fjords boast rich biodiversity due to the mixing of cold, nutrient-rich glacial
meltwater with warmer seawater.
• This unique marine environment supports diverse marine life, including fish,
seabirds, and marine mammals.
3. Recreational Opportunities:
• Fjords offer various recreational activities, including hiking, kayaking, wildlife
observation, and boat tours.
• These activities allow visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and
diverse ecosystems of fjord regions.
Fjords’ striking landscapes, steep cliffs, and unique combination of geological and natural
features make them some of the most picturesque areas in the world, attracting travelers and
nature enthusiasts seeking to experience their beauty and biodiversity firsthand.
The arrival of the South-West monsoon in eastern India is a highly anticipated annual event
around June-July that marks a significant turning point in the region's climate and culture.
4. Geographical Complexity:
• The rationale for this regional perspective lies in the complex geography of India.
The monsoon winds encounter various physical features such as mountains, valleys,
and plateaus as they traverse the country.
Some ways in which it has influenced the culture and way of life are:
1. Agriculture:
• South-West monsoon is crucial for agriculture, providing vital rainfall for crops and
livelihoods.
• Timing and intensity of the monsoon are critical for crop planning and harvesting,
shaping agricultural practices and calendars.
3. Cuisine:
• Monsoon influences regional cuisine with the inclusion of rainy season crops like
lentils and vegetables.
• Food preservation methods like pickling are used to make the most of seasonal
produce.
4. Traditional Knowledge:
• Generations have developed deep monsoon understanding, passed down as
traditional knowledge.
• This knowledge covers crop planting, water resource management, and essential
skills for harmonious living with the monsoon.
Marriage as a sacrament signifies the belief that marriage is a sacred and divine union
blessed by a higher power, emphasizing spiritual commitment beyond its legal dimensions.
• Changing Social Norms: Modern India has seen a shift in social norms towards
individualism and personal autonomy, leading to a decreased emphasis on the
sacramental aspect of marriage, with more focus on personal fulfillment.
• Rising Divorce Rates: The increasing incidence of divorce suggests that some
couples may not view marriage as an unbreakable sacrament, but rather as a contract
that can be dissolved when necessary.
• Economic Independence: As individuals, especially women, become financially
independent, the traditional need for marriage as an economic security arrangement
diminishes, potentially reducing its perceived sacramental value.
• Secularism: In an increasingly secular society, religious influence on marriage may
diminish, with some preferring to view it as a social commitment rather than a
sacred sacrament.
Counterarguments:
According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), in the past year, out of the 1.6
lakh individuals who tragically lost their lives to suicide, 45,026 were females, an increase
from the 44,498 recorded in 2020. This equates to approximately one female suicide every 9
minutes.
Reasons for the Increasing Suicide Rates Among Young Women in India:
1. Gender Discrimination:
• Societal pressures related to marriage, family, and career.
• Expectations and inequalities contribute to stress.
2. Economic Stress:
• Unemployment, financial instability, and limited job opportunities.
• Amplify stress, especially during events like the COVID-19 pandemic.
3. Education Pressure:
• High academic expectations and intense competition.
• Pressure to excel in exams and secure promising careers.
4. Social Isolation:
• Changing family structures and urbanization.
• Limited social support networks, loneliness, and depression.
6. Relationship Issues:
• Problems within relationships, including family and partners.
• Contributing to emotional distress and suicidal thoughts.
Way Forward:
Addressing the rising suicide rates among young women in India necessitates a multifaceted
approach aimed at prevention and support, including:
• Mental Health Awareness: Comprehensive awareness campaigns should be
launched to educate the public about mental health, reduce stigma, and encourage
open conversations about emotional well-being.
• Gender Equality Promotion: Initiatives and policies promoting gender equality in
all aspects of life, including education, employment, and family dynamics, should
be encouraged to reduce the societal pressures faced by young women.
• Online Safety Measures: Stricter measures against online harassment and
cyberbullying should be implemented, with an emphasis on creating safe online
spaces for young women.
• Crisis Helplines: Establishing toll-free mental health helplines can provide
immediate support to individuals in crisis and connect them with professional help.
Addressing the issue of rising suicide rates among young women in India requires
collaboration between government agencies, non-governmental organizations, communities
and individuals to create a supportive environment where mental health is prioritized and
accessible to all, which will ultimately help achieve SDG 5 ( Achieve Gender Equality ).
10. Child cuddling is now being replaced by mobile phones. Discuss its impact on
socialisation of children.
Technology, including mobile phones, is now an integral part of modern life, and its impact
on children's socialization is a complex issue that depends on various factors, including how
parents and caregivers manage technology use.
5. Decreased Empathy:
• Constant screen exposure may desensitize children to others' emotions.
• Reduced ability to pick up on non-verbal cues and facial expressions, impacting
empathy development.
1. Access to Information:
• Mobile phones provide access to a wealth of information and educational content.
• Enhances knowledge and supports cognitive development.
2. Virtual Socialization:
• Facilitates socialization, especially when physically separated from friends and
family.
• Helps maintain relationships over long distances.
3. Learning Opportunities:
• Educational apps and games available on mobile devices promote learning,
problem-solving, and creativity in children.
4. Digital Literacy:
• Early exposure to technology fosters digital literacy, a crucial skill in the modern
world.
Promoting a well-rounded approach that includes a balance between screen time and real-
world interactions and fostering responsible and safe online conduct are essential strategies
to both minimize the adverse effects and maximize the beneficial aspects of mobile phone
use in a child's upbringing.
11. What are the main features of Vedic society and religion? Do you think some of
the features are still prevailing in Indian society?
Vedic society and religion refer to the ancient civilization and spiritual beliefs that
originated in the Indian subcontinent around 1500 BCE and continued for several centuries.
The Vedic period is characterized by a set of sacred texts called the Vedas, which laid the
foundation for the development of Hinduism.
1. Oral Tradition:
• Vedic knowledge and sacred texts were primarily transmitted orally.
4. Polytheism:
• Vedic religion was polytheistic, with a pantheon of deities representing natural
forces and cosmic principles.
5. Veneration of Nature:
• Nature, represented by deities like Agni (fire) and Indra (rain god), was highly
revered.
6. Sanskrit Language:
• Sanskrit was the language of the Vedas and held great religious and scholarly
importance.
7. Patriarchy:
• Vedic society was largely patriarchal, with men dominating social and religious
spheres.
• Women had specific roles within families, primarily supporting husbands and
households.
1. Caste System:
• Despite legal and social reforms, the caste system persists in many parts of India.
Caste identity remains strong, and social and economic disparities based on caste
continue to be a challenge.
2. Rituals and Religious Practices:
• Hindu festivals, daily worship (puja), and temple visits are common and maintain a
significant presence in people's lives.
3. Veneration of Nature:
• The reverence for nature and its elements, a legacy from Vedic religion, is still
visible in cultural practices and rituals.
While many features of Vedic society and religion continue to influence Indian society,
there are several aspects that are not prevalent in contemporary India due to cultural, social,
and historical changes. For example,
1. Oral Tradition:
• Oral transmission of knowledge has been replaced by written documentation and
modern education systems.
2. Religious Diversity:
• India is now home to various monotheistic religions like Islam, Christianity, and
Sikhism, diversifying the religious landscape.
3. Language Shift:
• Sanskrit is studied in traditional settings but not widely spoken in daily life.
Vedic society and religion have left a lasting impact on Indian culture, with some features
persisting to this day. However, India's cultural and religious diversity has led to the
coexistence of various belief systems. It is essential to recognize and respect this complexity
while acknowledging the evolution and adaptation of Vedic traditions in contemporary
India.
12. What were the major technological changes introduced during the Sultanate
period? How did those technological changes influence the Indian society?
The Sultanate period in India, which lasted from the 13th to the 16th century, witnessed
several major technological changes and innovations. These changes had a significant
impact on Indian society, economy, and culture.
1. Indo-Islamic Architecture:
• Fusion of Indian and Islamic
architectural elements.
• Resulted in structures with
domes, arches, minarets, like the
Qutub Minar and Alai Darwaza.
2. Irrigation Systems:
• Baoli (Stepwell) construction for
water storage and management.
• Vital for water management in
arid regions.
4. Textile Industry:
• Advancements in weaving and dyeing techniques.
• Production of fine textiles with intricate designs like brocades and silks.
6. Agricultural Innovations:
• Improved cultivation techniques, including Persian wheel irrigation (saqiya).
• Expansion of cash crops like sugarcane and cotton.
The technological changes introduced during the Sultanate period in India not only
transformed the physical landscape but also had a profound impact on the socio-cultural and
economic aspects of Indian society, marking an important chapter in the country's history.
13. How did the colonial rule affect the tribals in India and what was the tribal
response to the colonial oppression?
The colonial rule in India, spanning nearly two centuries, brought about profound changes
in the lives of indigenous tribal communities. These tribes had long practiced a harmonious
existence with nature, relying on subsistence agriculture, hunting, and gathering. However,
colonial intrusion disrupted their traditional way of life, resulting in substantial socio-
economic and cultural transformations.
1. Land Alienation:
• Colonial powers introduced private property concepts and revenue systems.
• Led to extensive land dispossession among tribal communities, causing loss of
livelihoods and cultural dislocation.
2. Economic Exploitation:
• Tribals subjected to economic exploitation, forced into labor-intensive activities.
• Worked in mining and plantations under harsh conditions and low wages,
perpetuating poverty.
3. Social Disruption:
• Introduction of Western education and legal systems disrupted tribal societies.
• Traditional governance structures undermined, leading to social disintegration,
discrimination, and marginalization.
4. Cultural Erosion:
• Colonialism imposed Western values and religious beliefs, eroding tribal cultures.
• Active promotion of Christian conversion by missionaries contributed to the decline
of indigenous faiths.
5. Health Impacts:
• Arrival of colonial settlers brought diseases that devastated tribal populations.
• Disruption of traditional healthcare systems increased mortality rates among tribals.
2. Revival Movements:
• Some tribal leaders initiated revival movements to preserve cultural heritage.
• Aimed to revitalize traditional practices, languages, and rituals in the face of cultural
assimilation.
3. Political Mobilization:
• Tribal communities recognized the need for political representation.
• Leaders like Birsa Munda and Alluri Sitarama Raju advocated for tribal rights
through negotiations and protests.
4. Forest Movements:
• Forests were vital for tribal livelihoods, but British forest policies were harmful.
• Tribes engaged in forest protection movements, e.g., Chipko Movement, to
safeguard their interests.
5. Cultural Preservation:
• Tribes actively preserved their cultural identity.
• Efforts included language preservation, folklore documentation, and promotion of
indigenous art and crafts.
Colonial rule in India had profound and far-reaching effects on tribal communities. Despite
these hardships, tribal communities didn't passively endure oppression. They initiated
diverse responses, setting the stage for ongoing efforts to secure land rights, preserve their
culture, and achieve socio-economic empowerment in the post-colonial era. Historical
injustice was corrected to a great extent post independence through various policies and
schemes like ‘Tribal Panchsheel’ , Tribal sub-plan etc.
14. Comment on the resource potentials of the long coastline of India and highlight
the status of natural hazard preparedness in these areas.
India's extensive coastline, stretching over 7,500 kilometers, presents a plethora of resource
potentials and opportunities. Nevertheless, this vast coastal expanse is also susceptible to
natural hazards, necessitating a robust preparedness and mitigation strategy.
Resource Potentials:
2. Marine Biodiversity:
• Coastal waters are rich in marine life, supporting aquaculture and mariculture.
• Cultivation of shrimp, prawns, and seaweed is a growing industry with export
potential.
3. Mineral Resources:
• Coastal regions often contain valuable mineral resources, including titanium, rare
earth elements, and industrial minerals in beach sands.
• These resources are crucial for industries like aerospace and electronics.
5. Renewable Energy:
• Coastal areas offer ideal conditions for harnessing offshore wind and tidal energy.
• These resources play a pivotal role in achieving India's renewable energy goals.
Natural vegetation refers to the plant life that grows in a particular region without human
intervention. India is blessed with a remarkable diversity of natural vegetation, owing to its
vast geographical expanse and varying environmental conditions.
India's natural vegetation can be classified into several distinct types, each with its unique
characteristics:
• Tropical Rainforests: Found primarily in the Western Ghats, these lush forests are
characterized by high rainfall, dense canopies, and exceptional biodiversity.
• Tropical Deciduous Forests: These forests, prevalent in central and southern India,
experience distinct wet and dry seasons. They are home to a variety of hardwood
trees, including teak and sal.
• Tropical Thorn Forests and Scrubs: These arid and semi-arid regions in
northwestern India have adapted to harsh conditions, with drought-resistant
vegetation like acacia and cacti.
• Mangrove Forests: Located along the coastal regions, mangrove forests have salt-
tolerant trees and support unique ecosystems that serve as nurseries for marine life.
• Alpine and Tundra Vegetation: In the Himalayan region, alpine meadows and
tundra vegetation thrive at higher altitudes, featuring a different set of cold-adapted
plants.
• Climatic Variations: India's diverse climate zones, from tropical in the south to
alpine in the north, are a primary driver of vegetation diversity. Varied rainfall
patterns and temperature regimes create distinct ecological niches.
• Geographical Features: The country's diverse topography, including mountains,
plateaus, plains, and coastlines, influences microclimates and elevational gradients,
leading to different vegetation types.
• Edaphic Factors: Soil characteristics such as texture, nutrient content, and pH
levels impact plant growth and determine the types of vegetation that can thrive in
specific areas.
• Historical and Evolutionary Factors: India's geological history, including its
separation from Gondwana, has shaped its unique flora and fauna. Evolutionary
processes have contributed to endemism and species diversity.
• Altitude Variation: India's varied altitude levels, from high mountain peaks to low-
lying plains, result in distinct vegetation zones. Alpine vegetation in the Himalayas
contrasts with the tropical and subtropical vegetation in the lowlands.
To conserve India's diverse natural vegetation and wildlife sanctuaries, it is imperative to:
• Strengthen and enforce conservation laws and regulations.
• Promote sustainable land-use practices.
• Encourage community-based conservation initiatives.
India's natural vegetation is a testament to the country's environmental richness. To secure
these ecosystems for future generations, concerted efforts in conservation and sustainable
management are essential.
16. Why did human development fail to keep pace with economic development in
India?
Way Forward:
2. Education Reforms:
• Enhance education quality, accessibility, and relevance.
• Invest in teacher training and curriculum modernization.
• Expand digital and distance learning in remote areas.
3. Healthcare Expansion:
• Increase access to quality healthcare, especially in rural areas.
• Build more healthcare infrastructure and train healthcare workers.
• Raise public health awareness.
4. Gender Empowerment:
• Promote gender equality through legal reforms.
• Launch awareness campaigns and economic empowerment programs.
• Encourage women's participation in the workforce and decision-making.
17. From being net food importer in 1960s, India has emerged as a net food exporter
to the world. Provide reasons.
India's journey from being a net food importer in the 1960s to becoming a net food exporter
to the world is a testament to its remarkable agricultural transformation. This transformation
is rooted in a combination of factors, ranging from agricultural practices and policies to
technological advancements and globalization.
2. Irrigation Infrastructure:
• Investment in dams, canals, and tube wells expanded water resources access.
• Reduced reliance on unpredictable rainfall, enabling multiple cropping seasons and
increased productivity.
3. Policy Reforms:
• Introduction of Minimum Support Prices (MSPs) for key crops.
• Provided price guarantees to farmers, encouraging higher production.
• Subsidies on fertilizers, credit facilities, and agricultural research supported
agriculture.
4. Technological Advancements:
• Agricultural research and development led to pest-resistant, drought-tolerant crop
varieties.
• Shorter growth cycles and mechanization reduced labor requirements and increased
efficiency.
5. Land Reforms:
• Aimed at providing land to landless and marginalized farmers.
• Reduced landownership inequality, promoting investment in agriculture and
boosting productivity.
Way Forward:
1. Market Diversification:
• Explore new international markets through research and promotion.
• Secure favorable access with trade agreements and partnerships.
3. Export Promotion:
• Establish export promotion agencies and provide incentives.
• Facilitate interaction through trade fairs and exhibitions.
4. Product Diversification:
• Encourage high-value and niche crop diversification.
• Invest in R&D for unique agri-products.
By pursuing these strategies, India can further strengthen its position as a global agricultural
exporter, increase revenue from agri-exports, create employment opportunities in rural
areas, and contribute to the overall growth of the agriculture sector and the economy.
18. Does urbanisation lead to more segregation and/or marginalisation of the poor in
Indian metropolis?
Segregation and marginalization of the poor in the context of urbanization in Indian
metropolises refer to the systematic separation and social exclusion of economically
disadvantaged populations within these cities. Segregation manifests as the physical
clustering of impoverished communities in marginal areas with limited access to basic
amenities, while marginalization encompasses their exclusion from economic, social and
political opportunities.
1. Economic Disparities:
• Segregation: Urbanization often leads to the concentration of wealth in specific
areas, resulting in economic segregation. The wealthy tend to reside in upscale
neighborhoods with better infrastructure and services, while the poor are pushed to
peripheral slums or informal settlements with inadequate facilities.
• Marginalization: Economic disparities can lead to the exclusion of the poor from
economic opportunities, quality education and healthcare, perpetuating their
marginalized status.
2. Gentrification:
• Segregation: The process of gentrification can displace low-income residents as
property values rise. This can lead to the separation of communities and their
displacement to even more marginalized areas.
• Marginalization: Gentrification can marginalize the poor by eroding their access to
affordable housing and services, forcing them into impoverished conditions.
• Example - Forceful eviction of slum dwellers in Worlie area of Mumbai to build
high rise buildings
Counterarguments:
1. Economic Opportunities:
• Urbanization can provide economic opportunities that benefit the poor. The growth
of urban job markets can lead to increased employment and income generation for
impoverished communities.
2. Inclusive Policies:
• Some Indian cities have implemented inclusive policies such as affordable housing
programs and slum redevelopment projects, which aim to uplift the poor and reduce
segregation and marginalization.
3. Social Mobility:
• Access to better educational institutions and skill development centers in cities can
empower the poor with the skills needed for improved job prospects and social
mobility.
4. Community Resilience:
• Urban communities often develop strong social networks and support systems,
which can help the poor overcome challenges and social marginalization.
The static aspect refers to the enduring influence of traditional caste hierarchies and
identities, often rooted in centuries of history. In contrast, the fluid aspect reflects the
changing dynamics of caste identity, where individuals and communities are increasingly
able to transcend traditional constraints.
• Historical Roots: The caste system in India has deep historical roots, dating back
thousands of years. These entrenched hierarchies, based on occupation and birth,
have left a lasting impact on society. The static nature of caste identity is a reflection
of this historical continuity.
• Endogamy: The practice of endogamy, where individuals are expected to marry
within their own caste, reinforces the boundaries of caste identity. This practice has
been pervasive for centuries and has contributed to the preservation of caste
distinctions.
• Social Stigma: Discrimination and social stigma associated with certain castes
continue to persist in many parts of India. This discrimination can be so severe that
it becomes a significant barrier to upward social mobility, reinforcing the static
nature of caste identity.
• Inherited Privileges and Disadvantages: Privileges and disadvantages associated
with caste identity are often inherited from one generation to the next. Those born
into higher castes may continue to enjoy social and economic advantages, while
those from lower castes may face ongoing disadvantages.
While certain aspects remain static due to historical legacies and social structures, others are
increasingly fluid as individuals and communities adapt to a rapidly evolving society.
Recognizing both the static and fluid dimensions of caste identity is crucial for addressing
the challenges posed by caste-based discrimination while promoting inclusivity and social
progress in the country.
20. Discuss the impact of post liberal economy on ethnic identity and communalism.