What the 2018 paper asked
The 2018 GS Paper 1 had 20 questions for 250 marks: 10 of 10 marks (150 words), 10 of 15 marks (250 words). The directives UPSC used most: explain (5), discuss (4), how (2), why (2).
GS Paper 1 covers Indian heritage and culture, history, and the geography of the world and society. For how long a scoring answer runs at each mark, see how long toppers actually write.
All 20 questions
Safeguarding the Indian art heritage is the need of the moment. Discuss.
Assess the importance of the accounts of the Chinese and Arab travellers in the reconstruction of the history of India.
Throw light on the significance of the thoughts of Mahatma Gandhi in the present times.
Why is Indian Regional Navigational Satellite System (IRNSS) needed? How does it help in navigation?
Why is India taking keen interest in resources of Arctic Region?
Define mantle plume and explain its role in plate tectonics.
What are the consequences of spreading of ‘Dead Zones’ on marine ecosystem?
“Caste system is assuming new identities and associational forms. Hence, caste system cannot be eradicated in India.” Comment.
‘Despite implementation of various programmes for eradication of poverty by the government in India, poverty is still existing.’ Explain by giving reasons.
How the Indian concept of secularism is different from the western model of secularism? Discuss.
The Bhakti movement received a remarkable re-orientation with the advent of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. Discuss.
Discuss whether formation of new states in recent times is beneficial or not for the economy of India.
Why indentured labour was taken by the British from India to other colonies? Have they been able to preserve their cultural identity over there?
“The ideal solution of depleting ground water resources in India is water harvesting system.” How can it be made effective in urban areas?
Defining blue revolution, explain the problems and strategies for pisciculture development in India.
What is the significance of Industrial Corridors in India? Identifying industrial corridors, explain their main characteristics.
Mention core strategies for the transformation of aspirational districts in India and explain the nature of convergence, collaboration and competition for its success.
‘Women’s movement in India has not addressed the issues of women of lower social strata.’ Substantiate your view.
‘Globalization is generally said to promote cultural homogenization but due to this cultural specificities appear to be strengthened in the Indian Society.’ Elucidate.
‘Communalism arises either due to power struggle or relative deprivation.’ Argue by giving suitable illustrations.
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Other 2018 papers: GS2 · GS3 · GS4 Ethics · Essay.
Questions
How many questions were in UPSC Mains 2018 GS Paper 1?
20 questions, 250 marks in all: 10 of 10 marks (150 words), 10 of 15 marks (250 words). All are compulsory.
Where can I practise the 2018 GS1 questions?
In the practice bank, with a timer set to exam pace. Writing is free with no sign-in; checking an answer against topper answers uses an evaluation (1 free).
Write one, then get it checked.
Write by hand against the clock in the practice bank, then photograph the page: writeupsc puts it beside real topper answers. 1 free evaluation.