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Essay Paper UPSC 2021 (Mains): Question Paper and Analysis

Last updated on January 8, 2022 by Alex Andrews George

UPSC conducted the  Essay Paper , as part of the Civil Services Main Exam 2021 on 07-01-2022.

There were 8 Essay topics, out of which candidates were asked to write on two topics in 3 hours.

Candidates were supposed to answer about 1000 words for each essay (about 10-12 pages).

Table of Contents

Essay Paper UPSC 2021 Instructions

• Total Marks: 250 marks, Time duration: 3 hours.
• The essay must be written in the medium authorized in the admission certificate which must be stated clearly on the cover of this question-cum-answer (QCA) booklet in the space provided.
• No marks will be given for answers written in the medium other than the authorized one.
• Word limit, as specified, should be adhered to.
• Any page or portion of the page left blank, must be struck off clearly.

Essay Question Paper – UPSC Civil Services Main Exam (Written) 2021

Write  two  essays, choosing  one  topic from each of the following Sections A and B, in about 1000-1200 words each:

1. The process of self-discovery has now been technologically outsourced.

2. Your perception of me is a reflection of you; my reaction to you is an awareness of me.

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3. Philosophy of wantlessness is Utopian, while materialism is a chimera.

4. The real is rational and the rational is real.

5. Hand that rocks the cradle rules the world.

6. What is research, but a blind date with knowledge!

7. History repeats itself, first as a tragedy, second as a farce.

8. There are better practices to “best practices”.

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Most of the essays topics this year were philosophical and open to the interpretation of the candidates. However, considering the philosophical base of the questions, most candidates found the questions tricky. It was not easy to write 1000 words on each topic within the time constraints.

UPSC has ensured that the essay topics were much different from the GS questions.

A philosophical theme is clearly evident in most of the essay topics in Section A as well as Section B. This was the case in 2020 as well. However, this year it became much more prominent. It is a clue about what UPSC expects from the essay paper.

Rather than asking candidates to write on topics most aspirants are familiar or trained with, UPSC is now evaluating the essay writing skills of aspirants by providing them with abstract or philosophical topics.

The reason for such a shift in the pattern should be the change in the focus of the Commission.

All the 8 topics presented this year will test spontaneous thinking, comprehension, writing skills, and time-management of aspirants.

Repeated questions from previous years

The importance of the previous year UPSC questions cannot be stressed more.

Just like prelims, in mains too many questions came directly repeated from previous year question papers. Also, there were themes you often see in many essay books.

One such question was Hand that rocks the cradle rules the world.

Thinkers, Philosophers, and their Quotes

Let’s analyse the source of some of the question topics.

Your perception of me is a reflection of you; my reaction to you is an awareness of me.

This essay topic was a quote going rounds on the internet. The quote is attributed to “Coach Bobbi” [Bobbi Chegwyn] on Facebook.

Philosophy of wantlessness is Utopian, while materialism is a chimera.

This essay topic was connected with J.K. Mehta’s Theory of Wantlessness!

This has also connections with Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy.

The real is rational and the rational is real.

This is a quote by Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel .

As per Hegel, something can be real, yet it may not exist. Also, something may not be real, it may still exist. For Hegel, reality does not mean existence.

Among philosophers, Hegel is one whose thought is extremely difficult to understand. Often to understand Hegel’s thoughts, we need to grasp his ideas, not in isolation but together with his dialogue with other philosophers, in particular, Aristotle and Kant.

The hand that rocks the cradle rules the world.

“The Hand That Rocks the Cradle Is the Hand That Rules the World” is a poem by William Ross Wallace that praises motherhood as the preeminent force for change in the world. The poem was first published in 1865 under the title “ What Rules the World “.

What is research, but a blind date with knowledge!

This is a quote by Will Harvey . Will Harvey (born 1967) is an American software developer and Silicon Valley entrepreneur.

History repeats itself, first as a tragedy, second as a farce.

It was Karl Marx who said that history repeats itself, first as tragedy, then as farce.

First, it’s a tragedy because it shouldn’t have happened. Then it’s a farce (joke) because we didn’t learn from our mistakes the first time around. This is Marx’s version of dark humour.

What should aspirants preparing for next year do for an essay paper?

First of all, you should take the essay paper seriously.

Unless properly trained, it is not easy to write 10-12 pages on an abstract or philosophical topic.

You need to polish your comprehension and analytical skills.

Read different kinds of essays – particularly philosophical essays.

Give stress to the thoughts of philosophers like Immanuel Kant, Thomas Aquinas, John Locke, Friedrich Niche, Karl Marx etc. Start writing essays on famous quotes.

Also, be prepared to write essays touching other areas like society, polity, economy, or technology. UPSC is known for surprises.

Remember that there is nothing like a constant trend with respect to UPSC questions.

What you get by analysing the previous year question papers are clues. And only those are what you need from UPSC questions!

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Reader Interactions

January 8, 2022 at 11:36 am

Upsc has chosen right path to evaluate person.one person read, listen ,rember and write in exam.He qualify exam.He is just like computer.worthy less people selected by upsc every year.They are not thinker.so our country is intellectually insolvent.civil services requires thinker to. progess country and welfare of common man.These types of question evaluate intellectual for the welfare of human being.

January 9, 2022 at 1:44 pm

You are putting the quality of a leader and a literate society in such a person who just has to follow his supremes.He/She must be a good analyst. That’s it!!!

June 13, 2022 at 12:41 pm

in the bureaucracy – there is no space for logical thinking.

once you clear the exams and get appointed – you have to follow the “protocol’ or “procedures” – its difficult to be analytical and innovative – bcos the system demands obedience and adherence to the protocol. If you follow the protocol – and even if lot of people are severely affected – you wont be taken to task. But if you are innovative – and even if ONE person gets affected – you will be punished.

January 8, 2022 at 4:02 pm

Yeah!I’ve passed upsc .

January 25, 2022 at 2:21 pm

I have written Essay on three topics..how may I share?

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[UPSC Mains 2021] ESSAY PAPER- UPSC CIVIL SERVICES MAINS EXAM (CSE) 2021

• January 7, 2022

Important Updates , UPSC MAINS 2021 QUESTION PAPERS

1) The process of self-discovery has now been technologically outsourced.

2)  Your perception of me is a reflection of you; my reaction to you is an awareness of me.

3) Philosophy of wantlessness is Utopian, while materialism is a chimera.

4)  The real is rational and the rational is real

1) Hand that rocks the cradle rules the world

2)  What is research, but a blind date with knowledge!

3) History repeats itself, first as a tragedy, second as a farce.

4)  There are better practices to ‘best practices’.

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• Essay Paper 2021 , UPSC Mains Essay paper 2021 , UPSC Mains-2021: ESSAY PAPER- UPSC CIVIL SERVICES MAINS EXAM 2021

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[Download pdf] UPSC IAS Mains 2021 – Essay Question Paper

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UPSC Mains 2021 has been commenced today and the essay paper has been completed. You can view the UPSC IAS Mains 2021 Essay Question Paper in the text format and in the picture given below that.

UPSC Mains 2021 Essay Question Paper – Download pdf

The process of self-discovery has now been technologically outsourced.

Your perception of me is a reflection of you; my reaction to you is an awareness of me.

Philosophy of wantlessness is Utopian, while materialism is a chimera.

The real is rational and the rational is real.

Hand that rocks the cradle rules the world.

What is research, but a blind date with knowledge!

History repeats itself, first as a tragedy, second as a farce.

There are better practices to “best practices”.

UPSC IAS Mains 2021 Essay Question Paper 

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Understanding exam pattern : By going through the previous year's papers, aspirants can understand the exam pattern, question format, and the distribution of marks for different topics. This knowledge helps them tailor their preparation strategy accordingly.

Identifying important topics : Analyzing previous year papers helps candidates identify the recurring themes and important topics that have been frequently asked in the exam. It allows them to prioritize their study areas and focus on high-yield topics.

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Learning from mistakes : Attempting previous year papers allows candidates to learn from their mistakes and avoid repeating them in the actual exam. It is an essential part of the learning process and helps in continuous improvement.

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UPSC CSE MAINS 2021 ESSAY QUESTION PAPER | LEGACY IAS

Home » UPSC CSE MAINS 2021 ESSAY QUESTION PAPER | LEGACY IAS

• January 7, 2022
• UPSC CSE MAINS 2021

UPSC CSE MAINS 2021 ESSAY QUESTION PAPER | UPSC Civil Services  IAS Mains 2021

UPSC CSE MAINS 2021 ESSAY QUESTION PAPER – SECTION A

1) The process of self-discovery has now been technologically outsourced.

2)  Your perception of me is a reflection of you; my reaction to you is an awareness of me.

3) Philosophy of wantlessness is Utopian, while materialism is a chimera.

4)  The real is rational and the rational is real

UPSC CSE MAINS 2021 ESSAY QUESTION PAPER – SECTION B

1) Hand that rocks the cradle rules the world

2)  What is research, but a blind date with knowledge!

3) History repeats itself, first as a tragedy, second as a farce.

4)  There are better practices to ‘best practices’.

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UPSC Mains 2021 Question Papers

The UPSC Mains Examination has been scheduled to be conducted from 7th January 2022 to 16th January 2022. The candidates who have cleared the Preliminary exam 2021 which was held on October 10, 2021, would appear in the next level of the recruitment process, that is, Civil Services (Main) Examination. 

It is to be noted that the marks obtained in the IAS Exam Prelims by the candidates will not be counted for determining their final order of merit. 

The Civil Services (Main) Written Examination will consist of 9 papers of conventional essay type in the subjects out of which two papers will be of qualifying in nature. The marks obtained for all the compulsory papers (Paper-I to Paper-VII) and Marks obtained in the Interview/Personality Test will be counted for ranking.

The aspirants can download the UPSC IAS 2021 Mains question papers PDF from this page. 

Note – The exams are yet to take place. The PDFs will be available shortly.

Meanwhile, to download the 2020, 2019 UPSC Mains Previous Year Question Papers , visit the linked article.  

Download UPSC CSE 2021 Mains GS Question Papers PDF

The candidates can download the IAS Mains 2021 GS papers from the following links. The link will be activated once the question papers are officially released by the commission on the official website. 

Download UPSC Mains 2021 Essay Paper PDF

The candidates would be required to write essays on multiple topics. The candidates are expected to keep closely to the subject of the essay to arrange their ideas in an orderly fashion and to write concisely. The essay paper is not just qualifying in nature but will be counted for the merit ranking. 

Therefore, the aspirants can download the Essay Paper and Compulsory English Language Paper from below:

• UPSC Mains 2021 Essay Paper PDF

Download UPSC Mains 2021 Language Papers

• UPSC Mains 2021 Compulsory English Paper

The aspirants can download the compulsory Indian language papers from the links below:

For more information, check out UPSC Mains 2021 Indian Language Papers from the linked article. 

Download UPSC 2021 Mains Optional Papers PDF

The candidates have to choose any one of the optional subjects from amongst the list of subjects prescribed by the commission. 

The candidates can also choose Literature of any one of the following languages as their optional subject. 

Also, check out UPSC Mains 2021 Optional Paper from the linked article.

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UPSC CSE MAINS 2021: ESSAY PAPER FOR UPSC- IN-DEPTH ANALYSIS

The Essay Writing Paper for UPSC CSE 2021  is indicative of the fact that the exam is not merely about factual knowledge, but much beyond it. This year’s paper seems to analyze the box and critical thinking  of the aspirants.

Essay writing papers for Upsc Cse mains 2021 took especially those  aspirants by surprise  who went in with a preconceived notion of the traditional paper. This was where aspirants could use their usual ammunition where they were taught how to feed data points in different ways.

As a lot of our students aptly summed up  the analysis of the essay paper  in the comment sections of the  discussion video (link here)  there is only one word needed to describe the nature of this paper ‘philosophical’. However, the key thing required for writing on these topics was generic/real-life treatment and not core philosophical interpretations.

Table of Contents

Essay Writing Paper, UPSC CSE 2021

Write two essays, choosing one topic from each of the following Sections A and B, in about 1000-1200 words each:

• The process of self-discovery has now been technologically outsourced.
• Your perception of me is a reflection of you; my reaction to you is an awareness of me.
• The philosophy of witlessness is utopian, while materialism is a chimera.
• The real is rational and the rational is real.
• The hand that rocks the cradle rules the world.
• What is research, but a blind date with knowledge?
• History repeats itself, first as a tragedy, second as a farce.
• There are better practices to best practices.

Essay Writing Paper UPSC 2021 Detailed Analysis

Here is a list of our humble observations in an attempt to understand the nature of the paper.

• All the 8 questions were abstract topics.
• It was a logical culmination of the process that UPSC has lately followed for deep interpretation and introspection.
• Now the essay paper is no longer an extension of GS. It must be prepared differently.
• Essays are now a reflection of one’s personality as the topics demand one to think critically.
• It is quality over quantity that matters now. In simple words, 800-900 words are more than enough if the dimensions are well thought out and are substantiated with good case studies.

Scale of Difficulty

Moving forward, below is a deconstruction of the Essay Paper section wise and topic-wise:

Essay Paper UPSC 2021: Section Wise Analysis:

Clear thematic categorization of sections A and B

The two sections of the paper were categorized to cover two aspects of philosophical discourses –

• Section A  listed a set of topics with  the theme of self-reflective tone , where the subject ponders upon the impact of technology on one’s consciousness, the process of constructed realities of the mind, a critique of both asceticism and hedonism and the relationship of ideas with the reality of the world.
• Section B turned the subject of philosophical thinking from the human to the society, as if the society is reflecting upon itself – the topics covered the themes of the role of the mother in determining human destiny, the playfulness and creativity of research and knowledge, the famous quotation by Hegel and Marx about history repeating itself and a gentle mention of better practices and best practices.

Essay Paper UPSC 2021: Topic Wise Analysis:

Topics were borrowed from standard academic references.  They were drafted by people with a sincere command over the subject of philosophy, as they were not merely quotations, but sentences with layers of complexity which even students of philosophy optional may have found hard to unpack without effort.

Meaning and Approach to ESSAY Paper TOPICS 2021:

Topic 1: the process of self-discovery has now been technologically outsourced..

• Difficult topic because a particular/specific interpretation was required.
• Not a general moral critique of technology. Seems a general critique of our process of self-discovery.
• Examples/case studies are important for this kind of essay where the use of technology solves our problems but takes us away from self-realization.
• To put it in simple terms, sometimes the problems that we face as humans are not supposed to be immediately solved as we usually do by employing technology.
• The role of AI and Artificial Intelligence, Tech-based consultants, Thought processes, and Biotech  could be discussed as part of current affairs and GS reading for this topic.

Topic 2: Your perception of me is a reflection of you; my reaction to you is awareness of me

• This is perhaps the trickiest topic in the whole paper as two different dimensions of epistemology (subjective and objective) were fused into one essay.
• Most topics in section A talk about self-knowledge but this one is not about achieving self-knowledge but elaborating upon an already achieved self-knowledge.
• The fundamental value that can be discussed in this essay is humility, the need to introspect about one’s self, and the merits of exercising restraint .

Topic 3: The philosophy of witlessness is utopian, while materialism is a chimera

• In this topic, there are two propositions-  asceticism and hedonism  and both open themselves for a critical analysis.
• This is one topic that has an underlying critical tone.
• The topic is more about sustainable development, a balance between growth and development  which requires proper GS and current affairs base to add illustrations.

Topic 4: The real is rational and rational is real

• This is a quotation by Hegel, who was a philosopher in the tradition of German idealism. German idealism insisted on the proposition that the material world is the reflection of the world of ideas. It implies that if you can think of something as true it probably must exist in reality.
• The main thrust of this essay is to emphasize  intuition, theoretical powers of the mind, the power of big ideas, and the ability to think big, even if “big ideas” might look “unreasonable and unrealistic”
• Word of caution:  The term rational should not lead a student to interpret it as an essay in which scientific thinking has to be promoted and religious/spiritual thinking has to be criticized.
• The point that Hegel was trying to make was that even the idea of God/spirituality also comes from rational thinking.

Topic 5: The hand that rocks the cradle rules the world .

• This one is the easiest of all the topics this year.
• It hints at the power of the role of a mother/caregiver to shape society.
• This is one of the least abstract and more sociological topics of the exam and therefore the data on women’s rights, and women’s empowerment can be made relevant in this essay.

Topic 6: What is research, but a blind date with knowledge?

• The clear interpretation of the essay is that there is always  an element of risk, adventure, imagination, and open-mindedness in research.
• In simple words, research must be taken for the pleasure of discovering truth and any form of knowledge that follows from research must be appreciated.
• This topic also encourages an open and rational mindset in any research and study with the ability not to be influenced by biases and prejudice.
• Data points like nations with the best research institutes and Universities eventually are also more prosperous and just.

Topic 7: History repeats itself, first as a tragedy, second as a farce.

• It is a famous Marxist quotation brought into current relevance by some contemporary events like  the impact of the pandemic, conflicts, and environmental problems on the economy and society.
• The key interpretation of the topic is that if something unjust, wrong, or indemnifying happens to us once, then we can interpret it as a tragedy, where no one can be blamed for a tragedy. However, if it happens repeatedly then an evil motivation must be involved.
• Repeated mismanagement during successive COVID waves is a classic example of this.
• Care should be taken by those candidates who identified it correctly as a quote by Marx as that does not mean that the essay is about Marx or Communism vs. Capitalism or a history-based topic alone.
• Climate change, Afghan crises, the Middle East, Mismanagement during the pandemic, and Religious conflicts and riots  can be directly mentioned as illustrations based on current affairs and GS readings.

Topic 8: There are better practices to best practices.

• The clear-cut interpretation of this topic is that we cannot be convinced of having achieved the best practices ever and we always can improve ourselves endlessly .
• This also implies that we must follow an action-oriented philosophy and not wait for perfection to arrive at our ideas.
• Examples from cultural practices, social practices, political practices, and economic practices can be cited from a wide range, which is one essay where examples can be thought of easily if the interpretation is correct.
• The  core value  of this essay can be summed up as  the pursuit of excellence and not of perfection.

Implications- Essay For UPSC:

Many aspirants appearing in mains do not practice Essay writing as much as they should.  One must avoid such a blunder.  Being a paper largely dominated by abstract topics, it is indicative of the fact that it is one of the critical ways of checking the interpersonal skills  of the candidates and how they can present case studies and interpret them in the examination.

Therefore, the following  parameters should be kept in mind  while preparing for Essays:

• Comprehension of the topics: There should be a clear understanding of the essay topics asked in previous years. Next comes the segregation of topics into abstract and topical essays.
• Creative writing skills
• Coherent and cohesive ideas
• Time management
• Current affairs should be read diligently as these help in generating good illustrations.
• Certain themes around women, education, morality, technology, etc., should be well prepared
• The regular practice of writing 10-12 pages should be the norm.
• The target should be to score above 140 marks.

The Road Ahead- Essay Writing For UPSC:

• This year the UPSC has gone all out to emphasize that the routine delivery of facts learned from studying General Studies cannot be mindlessly reproduced in the essay paper.
• The students must develop an ability to appreciate the abstraction of thought and use the data points carefully to suit the given context.
• The UPSC has indicated with this paper that an inability to comprehend or express complex thoughts in simple terms cannot be an excuse for not being comfortable with the Essay paper, where ALL the topics are of such a nature there is no alternative to learning to cultivate some reading and writing skills.
• The interesting part is that developing these basic skills is not difficult at all and we are sometimes just late in overcoming such fears due to a lack of proper guidance .
• Further, there has to be a different approach while attempting such a paper as these topics are beyond general studies and require  an awakened mind to deconstruct such topics.
• One must understand that UPSC always surprises everyone with the kind of questions they ask.

How Edukemy’s Essay Writing Program Can Help?

• Edukemy’s Essay Program  includes sessions where we pay special attention to  the techniques of interpreting the topics  of the essay correctly and expressing our thoughts clearly and simply with appropriate vocabulary.
• Abstract essays form an essential part of Edukemy’s module course  on Essay writing which focuses on cultivating the habit of thinking in abstraction and multi-layered approaches of using facts and data points to suit the philosophical themes.
• Edukemy stands out in curating a list of reading material (Famous Book Summaries/Excerpts and Philosophies of Famous Personalities) which we publish and regularly update along with our essay programs. There is additional material where quotes, examples, and case studies are provided for important essay themes.
• Edukemy’s Essay Test Series can help you develop a regular practice routine and improve your writing style through detailed and personalized feedback.

1. What is the format of the UPSC CSE Mains 2021 Essay Paper?

A: The UPSC CSE Mains 2021 Essay Paper consists of two sections, each containing four essay topics. Candidates are required to write two essays, one from each section. The word limit for each essay is 1,000-1,200 words. The topics cover a wide range of issues, and candidates are expected to critically analyze and present their thoughts on the given subjects.

2. How should I approach essay writing in UPSC CSE Mains 2021?

A: Approaching the essay paper requires a strategic mindset. Begin by understanding the demands of the topic, brainstorming ideas, and structuring your essay coherently. Emphasize a balanced and analytical approach, supported by facts, examples, and relevant quotations. Make sure to showcase a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. Time management is crucial, so allocate time wisely between the two essays.

3. What is the role of current affairs in the Essay Paper for UPSC CSE Mains 2021?

A: While the essay topics may not explicitly mention current events, candidates are expected to integrate contemporary issues into their essays. This showcases an awareness of the world around them and the ability to connect theoretical knowledge with practical situations. Including relevant examples and case studies from recent events can significantly enhance the quality of the essay.

4. How are essays evaluated in UPSC CSE Mains 2021?

A: Essays are evaluated based on several criteria, including clarity of expression, coherence, relevance of content, originality of thought, and the ability to present a well-structured argument. Examiners look for a candidate’s ability to critically analyze issues, provide a balanced perspective, and communicate ideas effectively. Clear and concise writing with proper grammar and language usage is also crucial.

5. Can I use bullet points or diagrams in my essays for UPSC CSE Mains 2021?

A: The UPSC recommends a traditional essay format, and the use of bullet points or diagrams is generally discouraged. However, if it aids in clarity and better presentation of your ideas, candidates can use them sparingly. It’s essential to prioritize a coherent narrative and ensure that the essay meets the specified word limit. Excessive use of bullet points or diagrams may lead to a loss of depth in the analysis.

In case you still have your doubts, contact us on 9811333901.  

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UPSC Essay Topic wise Question Papers of last 31 years (1993-2023) for Civil Services IAS/IPS Exam Free Download

In the UPSC mains examination, essay paper is worth 250 marks and three hours. Here is the topic wise questions from the earlier years for the benefit of civil service IAS IPS aspirants.

1.1 India Since Independence

1.2 federalism, decentralization, 1.3 administration, 1.4 judiciary, 1.5 poverty, social justice, 1.6 indian society, culture and values, 1.7 media, tv & cinema, literature, 2.1 growth vs development, 2.2 environment vs development, 2.4 sectors of economy, 3.1 values in education, 3.2 scheme implementation, 3.3 higher education, 4.1 character, honesty, ethics, 4.2 knowledge, 4.3 compassion, 4.4 truth and reality, 4.5 youth, discipline, 4.6 towards excellence, 5.1 @national politics, 5.2 @world / quote type, 5.3 empowerment overall, 5.4 compared to men, 6.1 globalization, 6.2 international org./ bilateral, 6.3 security, 6.4 history, 7.1 science and religion, 7.2 science and education, 7.3 computer and internet, 7.4 sci-tech: others, appendix: linear paper of upsc essay 2023, appendix: linear paper of upsc essay 2022, appendix: model answer pe free lecture & powerpoint, appendix: syllabus of essay paper in upsc, 1 india: democracy, administration, society, culture.

• Is the Colonial mentality hindering India’s Success? -2013
• In the context of Gandhiji’s views on the matter, explore, on an evolutionary scale, the terms ‘Swadhinata’, ‘Swaraj’ and ‘Dharmarajya’. Critically comment on their contemporary relevance to Indian democracy -2012
• Dreams which should not let India sleep. -2015
• Why should we be proud of being Indians? -2000
• Whither Indian democracy? -1995
• How far has democracy in India delivered the goods? -2003
• What we have not learnt during fifty years of independence. -1997
• What have we gained from our democratic set-up? -2001
• My vision of India in 2001 a.d. -1993
• Impact of the new economic measures on fiscal ties between the union and states in India. -2017
• Water disputes between States in federal India. -2016
• Cooperative federalism : Myth or reality. -2016
• Creation of smaller states and the consequent administrative, economic and developmental implication -2011
• Evaluation of panchayati raj system in India from the point of view of eradication of power to people. -2007
• Water resources should be under the control of the central government. -2004
• The language problem in India: its past, present and prospects. -1998
• There are better practices to “best practices”. -2021
• How should a civil servant conduct himself? -2003
• Politics without ethics is a disaster. -1995
• The VIP cult is a bane of Indian democracy -1996
• Need for transparency in public administration -1996
• The country’s need for a better disaster management system. -2000
• Politics, bureaucracy and business – fatal triangle. -1994
• We may brave human laws but cannot resist natural laws. -2017
• Justice must reach the poor -2005
• Judicial activism and Indian democracy. -2004
• Judicial activism. -1997
• A society that has more justice is a society that needs less charity. (- जिस समाज में अधिक न्याय होता है उस समाज को दान की कम आवश्यकता होती है।) – 2023
• There can be no social justice without economic prosperity but economic prosperity without social justice is meaningless (बिना आर्थिक समृद्धि के सामाजिक न्याय नहीं हो सकता, किन्तु बिना सामाजिक न्याय के आर्थिक समृद्धि निरर्थक है ) -2020
• Neglect of primary health care and education in India are reasons for its backwardness. -2019
• The focus of health care is increasingly getting skewed towards the ‘haves’ of our society. -2009
• Food security for sustainable national development -2005
• Reservation, politics and empowerment. -1999
• Culture is what we are, civilization is what we have (जो हम है, वह संस्कार; जो हमारे पास है, वह सभ्यता ) -2020
• Indian culture today: a myth or a reality? -2000
• Modernism and our traditional socio-ethical values. -2000
• The composite culture of India. -1998
• The Indian society at the crossroads. -1994
• From traditional Indian philanthropy to the gates-buffet model-a natural progression or a paradigm shift? -2010
• New cults and godmen: a threat to traditional religion -1996
• Biased media is a real threat to Indian democracy. -2019
• Responsibility of media in a democracy. -2002
• Role of media in good governance -2008
• Does Indian cinema shape our popular culture or merely reflect it? -2011
• How has satellite television brought about cultural change in Indian mindsets? -2007
• Is sting operation an invasion on privacy? -2014
• Mass media and cultural invasion. -1999
• The misinterpretation and misuse of freedom in India. -1998
• Poets are the unacknowledged legislators of the world (कवि संसार के अनधिकृत रूप से विधायक होते हैं) – 2022

2 Economy, Development

• Poverty anywhere is a threat to prosperity everywhere. -2018
• Digital economy: A leveller or a source of economic inequality. -2016
• Innovation is the key determinant of economic growth and social welfare. -2016
• Near jobless growth in India: An anomaly or an outcome of economic reforms. -2016
• Crisis faced in India – moral or economic. -2015
• Was it the policy paralysis or the paralysis of implementation which slowed the growth of our country? -2014
• GDP (Gross Domestic Product) along with GDH (Gross Domestic Happiness) would be the right indices for judging the wellbeing of a country-2013
• Can capitalism bring inclusive growth? -2015
• Resource management in the Indian context. -1999
• Economic growth without distributive justice is bound to breed violence. -1993
• Forests are the best case studies for economic excellence (आर्थिक समृद्धि हासिल करने के मामले में वन सर्वोत्तम प्रतिमान होते हैं।) – 2022
• Alternative technologies for a climate change resilient India. -2018
• Should a moratorium be imposed on all fresh mining in tribal areas of the country? -2010
• Urbanisation and its hazards -2008
• Protection of ecology and environment is essential for sustained economic development. -2006
• Urbanization is a blessing in disguise. -1997
• Ecological considerations need not hamper development. -1993
• Globalization would finish small-scale industries in India. -2006
• Multinational corporations – saviours or saboteurs -1994
• Special economic zone: boon or bane -2008
• Is the criticism that the ‘Public-Private-Partnership’ (PPP) model for development is more of a bane than a boon in the Indian context, justified ?-2012
• Farming has lost the ability to be a source of subsistence for majority of farmers in India. -2017
• BPO boom in India. -2007
• Tourism: Can this be the next big thing for India? -2014
• Are our traditional handicrafts doomed to a slow death? -2009

3 Education

• Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in – school. (- शिक्षा वह है जो विद्यालय में विधालय में सीखी गई बातों को भूल जाने के बाद भी शेष रह जाती है।)
• Destiny of a nation is shaped in its classrooms. -2017
• Education without values, as useful as it is, seems rather to make a man more clever devil-2015
• Independent thinking should be encouraged right form the childhood. -2007
• Are the standardized tests good measure of academic ability or progress? -2014
• Irrelevance of the classroom. -2001
• Is the growing level of competition good for the youth? -2014
• Literacy is growing very fast, but there is no corresponding growth in education. -1996
• Is an egalitarian society possible by educating the masses ? -2008
• What is real education? -2005
• “Education for all” campaign in India: myth or reality. -2006
• Restructuring of Indian education system. -1995
• Privatization of higher education in India. -2002
• Credit – based higher education system – status, opportunities and challenges -2011

4 Quote based, Philosophy, Ethics

• A smile is the chosen vehicle for all ambiguities (हर असमंजस के लिए मुस्कराहट ही चुनिन्दा साधन है) – 2022
• Philosophy of wantlessness is a Utopian, while materialism is a chimera. -2021
• Your perception of me is a reflection of you; my reaction to you is an awareness of me. -2021
• Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication (सरलता चरम परिष्करण है ) -2020
• Ships don’t sink because of water around them ships sink because of water that gets into them (जहाज अपने चारों तरफ के पानी के वजह से नहीं डूबा करते, जहाज पानी के अंदर समां जाने की वजह से डूबता हैं ) -2020
• Life is a long journey between being human and being humane.  (मनुष्य होने और मानव बनने के बीच का लम्बा सफर ही जीवन है)-2020
• Values are not what humanity is, but what humanity ought to be -2019
• Best for an individual is not necessarily best for the society -2019
• Courage to accept and dedication to improve are two keys to success -2019
• Wisdom finds truth -2019
• A people that values its privileges above its principles loses both. -2018
• Customary morality cannot be a guide to modem file. -2018
• Need brings greed, if greed increases it spoils breed. -2016
• Character of an institution is reflected in its leader. -2015
• With greater power comes greater responsibility. -2014
• Words are sharper than the two-edged sword. -2014
• Attitude makes, habit makes character and character makes a man. -2007
• He would reigns within himself and folds his passions and desires and fears is more than a king. -1993
• Thinking is like a game, it does not begin unless there is an opposite team. (- सोच एक खेल की तरह है, यह तब तक शुरू नहीं होता है जब तक कि एक विपरीत टीम/पक्ष न हो।) – 2023
• Mathematics is the music of reason. (- गणित ज्ञान का संगीत है।) – 2023
• The real is rational and the rational is real. -2021
• Mindful manifesto is the catalyst to a tranquil self (विचारपरक संकल्प स्वयं के शांतचित्त रहने का उत्प्रेरक है )-2020
• ‘The past’ is a permanent dimension of human consciousness and values. -2018
• A good life is one inspired by love and guided by knowledge. -2018
• There is nothing either good or bad but thinking makes it so. -2003
• Disinterested intellectual curiosity is the lifeblood of civilisation. -1995
• Joy is the simplest form of gratitude. -2017
• Compassion is the basic of all morality of the world -1993
• Lending hands to someone is better than giving a dole. -2015
• Be the change you want to see in others (Gandhi)-2013
• Just because you have a choice, it does not mean that any of them has to be right (केवल इसलिए कि आपके पास विकल्प हैं, इसका यह अर्थ कदापि नहीं है कि उनमें से किसी को भी ठीक होना ही होगा) – 2022
• Reality does not conform to the ideal, but confirms it. -2018
• Truth is lived, not taught -1996
• When money speaks, the truth is silent. -1995
• Search for truth can only be a spiritual problem. -2002
• The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining (छप्पर मरम्मत करने का समय तभी होता है, जब धूप खिली हुई हो) – 2022
• You cannot step twice in the same river (आप उसी नदी में दोबारा नहीं उतर सकते) – 2022
• Discipline means success, anarchy means ruin -2008
• Youth is a blunder, manhood a struggle, old age a regret -1994
• If youth knew, if age could. -2002
• Youth culture today. -1999
• Fifty Golds in Olympics: Can this be a reality for India? -2014
• Visionary decision-making happens at the intersection of intuition and logic. (- दूरदर्शी निर्णय तभी लिए जाते है अंतर्ज्ञान और तर्क का परस्पर मेल होता है।) – 2023
• Not all who wander are lost. (- भटकने वाले सभी गुम नहीं हो जाते।) – 2023
• Inspiration for creativity springs from the effort to look for the magical in the mundane (- रचनात्मकता की प्रेरणा अलौकिक ता में चमत्कार ढूंढने के प्रयास से उपजति है) – 2023
• A ship in harbour is safe, but that is not what ship is for (जहाज बन्दरगाह के भीतर सुरक्षित होता है, परन्तु इसके लिए तो वह होता नहीं है) – 2022
• Quick but steady wins the race. -2015
• Useless life is an early death. -1994
• Our deeds determine us, as much as we determine our deeds. -1995
• The paths of glory lead but to the grave. -2002
• The pursuit of excellence. -2001

5 Women empowerment

• Greater political power alone will not improve women’s plight. -1997
• Women’s reservation bill would usher in empowerment for women in India. -2006
• The new emerging women power: the ground realities. -1995
• Hand that rocks the cradle rules the world. -2021
• If women ruled the world -2005
• The hand that rocks the cradle -2005
• Patriarchy is the least noticed yet the most significant structure of social inequality (पितृ-सत्ता की व्यवस्था नजर मैं बहुत काम आने के बावजूद सामाजिक विषमता की सबसे प्रभावी संरचना है) -2020
• Fulfilment of ‘new woman’ in India is a myth. -2017
• If development is not engendered, it is endangered. -2016
• Whither women’s emancipation? -2004
• Empowerment alone cannot help our women. -2001
• Women empowerment: challenges and prospects. -1999
• Woman is god’s best creation. -1998
• Men have failed: let women take over. -1993
• Managing work and home – is the Indian working woman getting a fair deal ?-2012

6 International issues, Internal Security, History

• South Asian societies are woven not around the state, but around their plural cultures and plural identities. -2019
• Modernisation and westernisation are not identical concepts. -1994
• ‘globalization’ vs. ‘nationalism’ -2009
• National identity and patriotism -2008
• Globalizations and its impact on Indian culture. -2004
• The masks of new imperialism. -2003
• As civilization advances culture declines. -2003
• The implications of globalization for India. -2000
• My vision of an ideal world order. -2001
• India’s contribution to world wisdom. -1998
• The world of the twenty-first century. -1998
• Preparedness of our society for India’s global leadership role. -2010
• Technology as the silent factor in international relations (अंतर्राष्ट्रीय संबंधों मैं मौन करक के रूप मैं प्रौद्योगिकी) -2020
• Has the Non-Alignment Movement (NAM) lost its relevance in a multipolar world ? -2017
• Restructuring of UNO reflect present realities -1996
• The global order: political and economic -1993
• India’s role in promoting ASEAN co-operation. -2004
• Importance of Indo-US nuclear agreement -2006
• Management of Indian border dispute is a complex task. -2018
• In the Indian context , both human intelligence and technical intelligence are crucial in combating terrorism -2011
• Are we a ‘soft’ state ? -2009
• Good fences make good neighbours -2009
• Is autonomy the best answer to combat balkanization? -2007
• Terrorism and world peace -2005
• True religion cannot be misused. -1997
• History repeats itself, first as tragedy, second as farce. -2021
• Geography may remain the same ; history need not. -2010

7 Science-Technology

• Spirituality and scientific temper. -2003
• Science and Mysticism : Are they compatible ?-2012
• What is research, but a blind date with knowledge! -2021
• Modern technological education and human values. -2002
• Value-based science and education. -1999
• The march of science and the erosion of human values. -2001
• The process of self-discovery has now been technologically outsourced. -2021
• Rise of Artificial Intelligence: the threat of jobless future or better job opportunities through reskilling and upskilling. -2019
• ‘Social media’ is inherently a selfish medium. -2017
• Cyberspace and Internet : Blessing or curse to the human civilization in the long run -2016
• Increasing computerization would lead to the creation of a dehumanized society. -2006
• The cyberworld: its charms and challenges. -2000
• Computer: the harbinger of silent revolution. -1993
• Technology cannot replace manpower. -2015
• Science and technology is the panacea for the growth and security of the nation-2013
• The modern doctor and his patients. -1997
• The lure of space. -2004

Section-A (write any one)

• Thinking is like a game, it does not begin unless there is an opposite team. (- सोच एक खेल की तरह है, यह तब तक शुरू नहीं होता है जब तक कि एक विपरीत टीम/पक्ष न हो।)
• Visionary decision-making happens at the intersection of intuition and logic. (- दूरदर्शी निर्णय तभी लिए जाते है अंतर्ज्ञान और तर्क का परस्पर मेल होता है।)
• Not all who wander are lost. (- भटकने वाले सभी गुम नहीं हो जाते।)
• Inspiration for creativity springs from the effort to look for the magical in the mundane (- रचनात्मकता की प्रेरणा अलौकिक ता में चमत्कार ढूंढने के प्रयास से उपजति है)

Section-B (write any one)

• Girls are weighed down by restrictions, boys with demands – two equally harmful disciplines. (-लड़कियां बंदिशों के तथा लड़के अपेक्षा के बोझ तले दबे हुए होते हैं दोनों ही समान रूप से हानिकारक व्यवस्थाएं हैं।)
• Mathematics is the music of reason. (- गणित ज्ञान का संगीत है।)
• A society that has more justice is a society that needs less charity. (- जिस समाज में अधिक न्याय होता है उस समाज को दान की कम आवश्यकता होती है।)

Answer one-one essay from each section in 1000-1200 words

• History is a series of victories won by the scientific man over the romantic man (इतिहास वैज्ञानिक मनुष्य के रूमानी मनुष्य पर विजय हासिल करने का एक सिलसिला है।) – 2022
• A ship in harbour is safe, but that is not what ship is for (जहाज बन्दरगाह के भीतर सुरक्षित होता है, परन्तु इसके लिए तो वह होता नहीं है) & 2022
• Just because you have a choice, it does not mean that any of them has to be right (केवल इसलिए कि आपके पास विकल्प हैं, इसका यह अर्थ कदापि नहीं है कि उनमें से किसी को भी ठीक होना ही होगा) – 2022

Essay: Candidates may be required to write essays on multiple topics. They will be expected to keep closely to the subject of the essay to arrange their ideas in orderly fashion, and to write concisely. Credit will be given for effective and exact expression.

IAS Shruti Sharma Marksheet VIRAL, UPSC Topper 2021 Scores More Than Civil Services Topper 2023 Aditya Srivastava

New Delhi: At both educational and professional levels, entrance examinations are conducted in India for different fields and most of these entrance tests are said to be the toughest in India and one such examination which is also considered to be one of the most difficult entrance tests in the world, is the one conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) . In the Civil Services Examination, lakhs of candidates appear and only a few hundreds are able to clear all three rounds - UPSC Prelims, UPSC Mains and UPSC Interview. Recently, UPSC CSE 2021 Topper Shruti Sharma Marksheet has been going viral on social media and it being compared to UPSC CSE 2023 Topper Aditya Srivastava Marksheet - IAS Shruti Sharma scored more than IAS Aditya Srivastava ...

UPSC CSE Topper 2021 Shruti Sharma Marksheet Viral

As said before, the marksheet of IAS Shruti Sharma has been going viral on social media. The marksheet includes topic-wise marks of the UPSC CSE 2021 Topper, along with the marks of the written examinations, the interview and the total marks obtained. In the UPSC CSE 2023, Aditya Srivastava's roll number was 0803237. The marksheet highlights all the subjects for which Shruti appeared Essay (Paper I), General Studies-1 (Paper-II), General Studies-II (Paper III), General Studies-III (Paper IV), General Studies-IV (Paper V), Optional-I (History Paper VI) and Optional-II (History Paper VII).

IAS Shruti Sharma Marksheet

Let us now know the marks IAS Shruti Sharma received, in every paper. In the Essay (Paper-1), Shruti has scored 132 marks, in General Studies-1 (Paper-II) she scored 135, Shruti has scored 121 in the General Studies-II (Paper III), in General Studies-III (Paper IV) the UPSC topper scored 139 marks, she scored 112 marks in the General Studies-IV (Paper V), in the Optional-I (History Paper VI) her marks were 155 and Shruti Sharma scored 138 in the Optional-II (History Paper VII).

UPSC Topper Aditya Srivastava Marksheet

In the Essay (Paper-1), Aditya has scored 117 marks, in General Studies-1 (Paper-II) he has scored 104, Aditya has scored 132 in the General Studies-II (Paper III), in General Studies-III (Paper IV) the UPSC topper has scored 95 marks, he has scored 143 marks in the General Studies-IV (Paper V), in the Optional-I (Electrical Engineering Paper VI) his marks are 148 and Aditya Srivastava has scored 160 in the Optional-II (Electrical Engineering Paper VII).

IAS Shruti Sharma Scored More Than Civil Services Topper Aditya Srivastava

IAS Aditya Srivastava's written total was 899, he scored 200 in his personality test and his final total was 1099 marks. Comparing his marks to the 2021 Topper of Civil Services IAS Shruti Sharma, she scored 932 in her written total which was more than Aditya's but her personality test score was 173, which is less than this year's topper. However, her total was 1105 marks which is six marks more than what Aditya Srivastava has scored.

Current Affairs 16th May 2024 for UPSC Prelims Exam

StudyIQ offers Daily Current Affairs and Important News for UPSC Exam 2024. Check here Current Affairs of 16th May 2024 for UPSC Exam and State PSC Exam.

Table of Contents

Grounds of Arrest

Context: The Supreme Court of India invalidated the arrest of NewsClick founder Prabir Purkayastha, ordering his release, due to the improper procedures followed during his arrest under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).

More In News

• The court held that the ratio laid down in the judgement in the case Pankaj Bansal v Union of India mandating that grounds of arrest must be supplied to the accused in writing will also apply in the cases registered under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act 1967.
• The court dismissed the argument that Purkayastha was “orally” informed about the grounds of his arrest.
• Additionally, the Supreme Court has ruled that article 22(1) of the Constitution mandates that an arrested person must be informed of the grounds of arrest and allowed to consult a lawyer, which was violated in this case.

Section 43 (A) and 43(B) of the UAPA

Section 43a: power to arrest, search, etc..

Any officer of the Designated Authority, empowered by a general or special order of the Central or State Government, can:

• Arrest a person if they know of a plan to commit an offence under the UAPA or have reason to believe, based on personal knowledge or written information, that the person has committed an offence punishable under this Act.
• Search any building, conveyance, or place, by day or night, if they believe it contains evidence of the commission of an offence, illegally acquired property, or any document or article related to such property.
• Authorise a subordinate officer to carry out the arrest or search.

Section 43B: Procedure of Arrest, Seizure, etc.

• Informing Grounds of Arrest: Any officer arresting a person under Section 43A must inform the person of the grounds for the arrest “as soon as possible”.
• Forwarding Arrested Person and Seized Articles : Every person arrested and an article seized under Section 43A must be forwarded without unnecessary delay to the officer-in-charge of the nearest police station.
• Subsequent Measures: The authority or officer to whom any person or article is forwarded must promptly take necessary measures in accordance with the provisions of the Code.

Igla – S Air Defence System

Context: The Indian Army is expected to receive a new batch of Russian Igla-S very short range air defence systems (VSHORAD) by the end of May or early June.

About Igla- S (or SA-24 Grinch)

• It is a man-portable air defence system (MANPADS).
• Developed by : Russia.
• Operation: It is a hand-held defence system that can be operated by an individual or a crew.
• Target Neutralisation : Designed to bring down low-flying aircraft and can also identify and neutralise air targets such as cruise missiles and drones.
• Components: Comprises the 9M342 missile, the 9P522 launching mechanism, the 9V866-2 mobile test station, and the 9F719-2 test set, working together for a comprehensive air defence solution.
• Role : Serves as the soldier’s last line of defence against enemy combat aircraft, helicopters, and UAVs within a multilayered air defence network.
• Range: Effective range is from 500 metres to 6 kilometres.
• Altitude : Can attack targets up to an altitude of 3.5 kilometres.
• Speed: Missile speed is 400 metres per second.
• Deployment Time: Deployment time is 13 seconds.
• Significance : The acquisition of the Igla-S MANPADS enhances India’s air defence capabilities, particularly in mountainous regions.

Ethylene Oxide

Context: India has mandated the testing and sampling of Ethylene Oxide (EtO) residue for all spice shipments to Singapore and Hong Kong.

What is Ethylene Oxide?

• Ethylene oxide is a pesticide and industrial chemical used as a fumigant by the spice industry to reduce microbial contamination like E. coli and Salmonella.
• It is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer, indicating strong evidence from human studies that it can cause cancer.
• The chemical is colourless, highly flammable, and very reactive, effectively killing bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
• Usage of ETO: Ethylene oxide is used industrially and in agriculture, primarily for sterilising medical devices and food products such as spices, to extend shelf life and reduce microbial contamination.
• Ethylene oxide can damage DNA and increase the risk of various cancers, including leukaemia, stomach cancer, and breast cancer.
• Chronic exposure through regular consumption of contaminated spices is a concern.
• Additionally, Ethylene oxide exposure may also cause respiratory irritation, lung injury, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea.
• Ethylene glycol was an ingredient in cough syrups linked to over 300 child fatalities across various countries.

Global Regulations on Ethylene Oxide Use in Food

• The European Union (EU) banned ethylene oxide for food fumigation in 2011.
• Its use is currently only permitted for medical device disinfection and sterilisation.

Examples, Case Studies And Data

• In 2021, per capita public health spending in India was significantly lower compared to other countries: Bhutan spent 2.5 times more, Sri Lanka spent three times more, and many BRICS nations spent 14-15 times more than India.

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I, Sakshi Gupta, am a content writer to empower students aiming for UPSC, PSC, and other competitive exams. My objective is to provide clear, concise, and informative content that caters to your exam preparation needs. I strive to make my content not only informative but also engaging, keeping you motivated throughout your journey!

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