The Harappan Civilization, dating back to 2600-1900 BCE, is renowned for its advanced urban planning and architecture. According to archaeologist John Marshall, the Harappans demonstrated remarkable city planning with grid patterns, sophisticated drainage systems, and standardized fired-brick construction. The presence of structures like the Great Bath in Mohenjo-daro highlights their engineering prowess and social organization, reflecting a society that prioritized hygiene and civic amenities.
Akbar's religious syncretism was a hallmark of his reign, characterized by the establishment of the Din-i Ilahi in 1582, which sought to blend elements of various faiths. Historian Badauni noted Akbar's efforts to foster harmony among Hindus and Muslims. His policy of Sulh-i-Kul (universal peace) promoted tolerance and dialogue, as emphasized by scholars like Irfan Habib, who highlighted Akbar's inclusive approach to governance and religion.
Climate change and sea level rise pose existential threats to island nations, as highlighted by the IPCC. Rising seas, driven by melting ice caps and thermal expansion, threaten to submerge low-lying areas. For instance, the Maldives and Kiribati face potential displacement. James Hansen, a leading climate scientist, warns of accelerated ice melt, exacerbating these risks. Urgent action is needed to mitigate impacts and ensure the survival of these vulnerable communities.
Q 5. What are non-farm primary activities? How are these activities related to physiographic features in India? Discuss with suitable examples. (UPSC 2025, 10 Marks, 150 Words)
गैर-कृषि प्राथमिक गतिविधियाँ क्या हैं? ये गतिविधियाँ भारत में भौगोलिक विशेषताओं से किस प्रकार संबंधित हैं? उपयुक्त उदाहरणों के साथ चर्चा कीजिए।View Answer
Tsunamis are large sea waves caused by underwater disturbances like earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, or landslides. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), these waves can travel at speeds up to 500 mph. They primarily form in the Pacific Ocean's "Ring of Fire". Consequences include devastating coastal flooding and destruction, as seen in the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, which claimed over 230,000 lives. Charles Darwin noted the immense power of such natural events in his writings.
The ethos of civil service in India embodies a blend of professionalism and nationalistic consciousness, as envisioned by thinkers like Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, who regarded civil servants as the "steel frame" of governance. This ethos is defined by a commitment to impartiality, integrity, and dedication to public service, while fostering a deep sense of responsibility towards national development. The Second Administrative Reforms Commission emphasizes these values to ensure effective and ethical governance in a diverse and democratic society.
Q 12. Trace India's consolidation process during early phase of independence in terms of polity, economy, education and international relations. (UPSC 2025, 15 Marks, 250 Words)
राज्यतन्त्र, अर्थ व्यवस्था, शिक्षा और अन्तर्राष्ट्रीय सम्बन्धों के विषय में आजादी के प्रारम्भिक काल में भारत के सुदृढ़ीकरण की प्रक्रिया को रेखांकित कीजिए।View Answer
Q 14. Give a geographical explanation of the distribution of off-shore oil reserves of the world. How are they different from the on-shore occurrences of oil reserves? (UPSC 2025, 15 Marks, 250 Words)
विश्व के अपतटीय तेल भंडारों के वितरण का भौगोलिक स्पष्टीकरण दीजिए। वे तटवर्ती तेल भंडारों से किस प्रकार भिन्न हैं?View Answer
The distribution of off-shore oil reserves is primarily influenced by geological formations beneath continental shelves, with significant reserves in regions like the North Sea, Gulf of Mexico, and West Africa. According to BP's Statistical Review, off-shore reserves account for about 30% of global oil production. Unlike on-shore reserves, which are found on land, off-shore reserves require advanced technology for extraction due to their underwater location, as noted by geologist M. King Hubbert.
Q 15. How can Artificial Intelligence (AI) and drones be effectively used along with GIS and RS techniques in locational and areal planning? (UPSC 2025, 15 Marks, 250 Words)
स्थानीय और क्षेत्रीय योजना बनाने में जी.आई.एस. और आर.एस. तकनीकों के साथ कृत्रिम बुद्धिमत्ता (ए.आई.) और ड्रोन का प्रभावी ढंग से उपयोग कैसे किया जा सकता है?View Answer
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and drones are revolutionizing locational and areal planning by integrating with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing (RS). According to Michael Goodchild, GIS enhances spatial data analysis, while AI optimizes data interpretation. Drones provide real-time, high-resolution imagery, crucial for accurate planning. McKinsey & Company highlights AI's role in predictive analytics, improving decision-making. This synergy enables efficient resource allocation, urban planning, and environmental monitoring, transforming traditional methodologies.
Q 16. Discuss how the changes in shape and sizes of continents and ocean basins of the planet take place due to tectonic movements of the crustal masses. (UPSC 2025, 15 Marks, 250 Words)
चर्चा कीजिए कि ग्रह के महाद्वीपों और महासागरीय बेसिनों के आकार और माप (साइज) में, क्रस्टल द्रव्यमानों की टेक्टोनिक गतिविधियों के कारण, परिवर्तन कैसे होते हैं।View Answer
Q 18. How do you account for the growing fast food industries given that there are increased health concerns in modern society? Illustrate your answer with the Indian experience. (UPSC 2025, 15 Marks, 250 Words)
आधुनिक समाज में स्वास्थ्य संबंधी चिंताएं बढ़ने के बावजूद, फास्ट फूड उद्योग बढ़ रहे हैं - आप इसको कैसे देखते हैं? भारतीय अनुभव से अपने उत्तर को उदाहरण देकर स्पष्ट कीजिए।View Answer
Q 19. Achieving sustainable growth with emphasis on environmental protection could come into conflict with poor people's needs in a country like India – Comment. (UPSC 2025, 15 Marks, 250 Words)
पर्यावरण संरक्षण पर जोर देते हुए सतत विकास हासिल करना, भारत जैसे देश में गरीब लोगों की जरूरतों के साथ टकराव में आ सकता है। टिप्पणी कीजिए।View Answer
Tribal Development in India involves a delicate balance between displacement due to development projects and effective rehabilitation. According to the 2011 Census, tribals constitute 8.6% of India's population. Thinker Verrier Elwin emphasized the need for integrating tribals into the mainstream while preserving their culture. The PESA Act, 1996 aims to empower tribal communities, yet challenges persist in ensuring equitable development without compromising their rights and livelihoods. Balancing these aspects is crucial for sustainable tribal development.