In September 2023, we had published 170 posts.
GS-I: Indian Culture
1. What is the ideology of the Sufi and Bhakti traditions? How can they be used as instruments to fight communalism?
2. Analyse the contribution of Rabindranath Tagore to both Indian literature and arts. To what extent, his works bridged the gap between traditional and modern forms? Discuss.
3. While elucidating their evolution in the Indian moral thinking, critically discuss the concepts of Rta and Dharma.
4. What changes were brought in by the Sungas in the Maurya sculpture? Discuss.
5. Critically examine the importance of the Dhamekh Stupa at Sarnath as a representative of the Buddhist Stupas?
6. "No one can deny the role played by ICHR in the historical research however, in recent times, it has been making news for wrong as well as right reasons."Throw Light.
7. Describe critically the architecture and sculpture of the Dasavatara temple at Deogarh.
8. Critically discuss the developments in art and architecture in India in the past which show that India's culture is a composite one.
9. Which were the four events in the life of the Buddha which have been depicted in different forms of Buddhist art? What did these events symbolise?
10. Discuss the importance of the Gupta temple in the development of Indian architecture.
11. How did the colonial period influence Indian literature and arts? Discuss the changes in themes, styles, and mediums during this era with suitable examples.
12. Do you think that the Company School of Painting had a Pan-India Presence? Substantiate your answer.
13. Examine the contemporary relevance of ancient Indian literary works in modern Indian arts. How are artists today drawing inspiration from classical texts? Discuss.
14. Critically discuss why Buddha image from Sarnath is considered the highest triumph of Indian art.
15. Critically discuss the importance of terracotta as the material for artistic expression of the humble people.
16. Compare the image of the Buddha in the Gandhara art with that in the Mathura art.
17. What is the importance of the Bhagavata movement in the history of Indian art?
18. Justify by giving illustrations from the paintings in the caves at Ajanta that the master painters who produced these paintings were in love with nature.
19. What was the significance of a fort in medieval India? What were the strategic devices adopted in the construction of forts to confuse or defeat the enemy?
20. Write a Critical note on Vijayanagara paintings.
GS-I: Modern World History
1. “The creation of the United Nations marked a significant evolution in international diplomacy.” Assess the role of the UN in conflict resolution and peacekeeping post-World War II.
2. “The rise of nationalism in the 20th century led to both liberation and oppression.” Evaluate this statement with examples from different regions of the world.
3. “The Treaty of Versailles laid the groundwork for World War II.” Critically discuss the provisions of the Treaty and their implications for international peace and security.
4. What was India’s role in the two World Wars? Why was India involved?
5. “The Cold War was a clash of economic systems as much as it was a clash of superpowers.” Evaluate how economic considerations shaped the strategies of the USA and USSR.
6. How far can it can be said that the USA followed a policy of strict isolation in foreign affairs during the 1920s and early 1930s, and what effects did this policy have on international relations?
7. Explain the meaning of Ancien Regime and seigneurial system in context with pre-revolution France? What happened to them when revolution broke out in France?
8. “Nuclear arms race during the Cold War period had a paradoxical role in both escalating and preventing direct conflict.” Critically analyse this statement in the light of historical facts.
9. Napoleon was the child of the revolution, but in many ways he reversed the aims and principles of the movement from which he sprang. Comment.
10. Despite the fact that the Israel-Palestine conflict is rooted in history, it has been shaped in its modern form in the 20th century. Explain.
11. “Neo-colonialism is a continuation of colonialism under the guise of economic assistance.” Critically analyse how developed nations continue to exert influence over developing countries through economic policies.
12. “Decolonization was not an instantaneous process but a complex series of events.” Examine the varying paths to independence taken by colonial countries post-World War II.
13. The American economic recovery act, also known as Marshall Plan, helped in the recovery of European states aftermath of WW2, but it is also blamed for dividing Europe into east and west block. Discuss.
14. The Napoleonic Empire was doomed because of its inherent and self-defeating contradictions. Elucidate.
15. What is the ‘Century of Humiliation’, often referred to in discussions about China? How has it shaped the foreign policy of China and its outlook towards the world?
16. Elucidate the meaning and importance of “Bastille” and “Great Fear” in context with French Revolution.
GS-II: Constitution of India & Polity
1. Explain the provisions of Article 105 of the Indian Constitution. Does it provide any special immunity to the Members of Parliament outside the parliament also? Discuss while highlighting its significance.
2. Explain the power of President of India with respect to his powers to withhold assent in case of Ordinary Bills, Money Bills and Constitution Amendment Bills.
3. In India, the courts are criticized on the ground that they often invoke the provisions of contempt of court to punish expressions of dissent. What do you understand by the contempt of court? While highlighting the existing law on the same, critically examine if it is time to amend the law on contempt of court.|
4. Highlight the challenges associated with the implementation of the Panchayats (Extension to the Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 and suggest measures to ensure its implementation in both letter and spirit.
5. The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has imposed a fine on tech giant Google. In this context, discuss the role of CCI. Also, compare CCI’s actions with the US and EU regulators to curb monopolistic behaviors.
6. Except in the case of collective responsibility of the Council of Ministers and certain financial matters, Both Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha enjoy equal powers. Explain.
7. In light of the recent Supreme Court order upholding the 2014 amendments to the EPFO pension scheme, give an overview of this social security scheme. How is the apex court’s order expected to affect the pensions segment?
8. Restrictions on fundamental right to privacy must be just, reasonable and fair and should be for the larger good of the society and empowerment of people. Discuss critically.
9. While the pressure groups play a constructive and positive role in deepening democracy and enhancing liberties, they are often criticized on various grounds. Discuss.
10. Comment on the recent criticism of the Enforcement Directorate in India. What can be done to remove its shortcomings?
11. Despite federalism being the part of the basic structure of constitution, Indian model of federalism leans in favour of a strong centre. Discuss.
12. Tribunals have not only failed in achieving their envisaged objectives but also creating multiple challenges in the administration of justice in India. Critically analyze.
13. Law and Order should be moved from state list to union list in the seventh schedule of the constitution. Critically discuss in the light of political interference faced by police personnel impeding the functioning of police.
14. It has been often argued that the Governor usually acts more as ‘an agent of the centre’ than as constitutional head of state. Critically analyse.
15. Discuss the composition and functions of Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA). What is the relevance of creation of additional bodies comprising several ministers such as current government's Alternative Mechanism (AM) and previous government's GoM (Group of Ministers)?
16. While keeping Rajasthan's Panchphal Yojana in focus, critically discuss how innovative solutions can augment resources and multi-dimensional benefits for panchayats?
17. Many of India's biggest industrial houses have taken advantage of a new law to set up electoral trusts but the transparency in corporate donations to political parties still remains a major issue."" Discuss critically."
18. As per Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR)'s report, 77% of total income of two major parties in India is from unknown sources. In this context what is section 29 C of Representation of People's act? How is this legal provision misused to fund political parties anonymously? Suggest measures to ensure transparency in funding ? Also, discuss the possibilities of state funding of elections.|
19. Over the last 3 years, more than half the centrally sponsored schemes have been discontinued/ rationalized. Examine the impact of these measures.
20. The powers and privileges given to the legislature are essential for discharging their duties, however, there is a need to maintain balance between legislative privileges and fundamental rights.
GS-II: International Relations
1. Refugee Crisis & India
2. "Many challenges of South Asia can be addressed through "SAARC-minus-one". Discuss.|
3. Indo-US changing Strategic Scenario
4. Despite of several UNSC sanctions, North Korea is able to sustain its nuclear and missile endeavors. Critically analyze the efficacy of economic sanctions towards nuclear disarmament.
5. Examine the possible implications of US withdrawal from the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP). Do you agree with the view that despite of US exit, TPP can be a game-changer for Indo-pacific region? Comment.
6. In light of a group of 16 countries, led by Vanuatu, approaching the International Court of Justice to seek a clarification of state obligations with regards to climate action, comment on the significance of the initiatives being taken by this small Pacific island nation. What is the way ahead?
7. Comment on the collapse of the World Trade Organization’s dispute settlement mechanism and how it affects the countries.
8. Has India played her hand with international politics by making some controversial domestic decisions in the past year? Discuss.
9. In view of Pakistan’s recent removal from the grey list, evaluate the performance of FATF in fighting terror financing.
10. What are the implications of the rising tensions between China and Taiwan for the chip making sector? Discuss its significance.
11. Evaluate the Global North’s efforts to fulfill the annual $100 billion climate finance promise to the Global South. How far can private climate finance help here?
12. Who are the USCIRF and what concerns have been raised by it over the Citizenship Amendment Bill, 2019 introduced in the Parliament ?
13. Joint drill by Russia, Iran & China
14. Imports from China has led to curbed capacity creation and utilisation, India needs to address this malaise for economic revival. Comment.
15. Role of Indo-Pacific
16. While bringing out its major contours , examine the performance of the so called "Strategy for BRICS Economic Partnership" in two years of its existence.
17. What are the issues and concerns related to the historic Land Boundary Agreement between India and Bangladesh ?
18. Point-Based Visa: The New World Order
19. What do you understand by the policy of "strategic restraint"? Do you agree with the view that adoption of such policy has made India a rather soft state? Give arguments.
20. The UN Budget 2020 Displays A Shift In Dynamics
GS-II: Social Justice
1. E-commerce market growth & hindrances
2. India Skills Report 2018-20: How has Youth Fared?
3. India Is Slowly Rising Up The HDI Ladder
4. Global Hunger Index-2019: Analyzing Government Response
5. Has Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana Failed To Tackle The Problem?
6. Industrial Relations Code Bill, 2019
7. Substance Abuse Turns Out To Be A Major Problem In India
8. Stunting is a manifestation of malnutrition. Can it be addressed with the rapid economic growth?
9. What is the status of conjugal rights for prisoners in India? Why these rights are important?
10. Without emphasizing on behavioral change the idea of Clean India seems elusive. Critically examine while highlighting innovative measures by various states to focus on attitudinal change.
11. Empathy in healthcare
12. Critically discuss the 3F (Finance, Function and Functionaries) issues with local bodies as a hindrance to achieve the Swachh Bharat Mission goals.
13. India Makes Public Health A Priority With “Eat Right India”
14. India Bans E-cigarettes
15. Annual Status of Education Report: Key Findings
16. India’s Progress Measured in SDG Index 2.0 By NITI Aayog
17. Concerns on the use of facial recognition technology
18. Elaborate the 3As challenges towards equitable health system worldwide and their implications.
19. Swachh Survekshan: A Hit Or A Miss?
20. Comment on India’s dependence on imports for the electric vehicle market from China. What should be India’s strategy to beat the Chinese influence over the EV market?
GS-III: Economy & Economic Development
1. Nothing grows fast in finance without storing trouble for the future and so is also true for India�s exotic funds. Comment.
2. Suggest amendments to Model Tenancy Act to address housing sector woes.
3. How Farmer Field Schools are strengthening the Farming Community in Maharashtra?
4. Farmers of India are moving to buffaloes in place of cows. The farmer decision-making is largely influenced by the economic factors. Examine this in light of livestock policies of the country.
5. Kaleshwaram Multipurpose Lift Irrigation Project is the world�s largest irrigation and drinking water system. This has been possible because Telangana is located around 300-650 m above MSL. Comment.
6. A fast-growing economy is able to generate surpluses which are needed for job creation and sustenance of social safety nets. Comment.
7. What are the recommendations of the RBI Internal Group set up to review the current liquidity management framework?
8. What are the roles and functions of the Farmers Producers Organisations?
9. How a multi-prolonged strategy can aid in addressing farm distress?
10. According to you, what kind of governmental support is essential for the RBI Payments Vision 2019-21 to be successful?
11. Why the Model Tenancy Act is criticized for not addressing the crisis of housing sector?
12. The SEBI has come up with more strict regulations for the management of mutual fund Do you think the regulator can actually protect the investors beyond a certain point?
13. How is Indian government going to fix the issues which are stippling its Indian Airline industry?
14. What are the hurdles faced by the Finance Ministers of India in keeping the fiscal deficit below 3-4 percent of the GDP? Suggest steps to lower the fiscal deficit.
15. What steps can the government make to make the PDS distribution more effective?
16. The Jet Airways case has takeaways for the bankruptcy code as well as for other airlines. Comment.
17. What measures have been taken by the government to tackle spike in onion prices?
18. Do you think as per the international standards, GST which has taken two years to stabilise has really done well in terms of revenue yield? Comment.
19. How does SEZ concept help investors in India? Enumerate the features of the Special Economic Zones (Amendment) Bill, 2019.
20. Why there has been an increase in number of job seekers in India?
21. Do you think that RBI needs to set up a special liquidity window for NBFCs as the sector is in dire need of a shakeup? Comment.
22. What are the recommendations made by the task force on direct tax code on dividend distribution tax?
23. Liberalisation of the Indian economy since 1991 has led to excessive consumerism and over-production of ‘white goods’. Elucidate.
24. Why the often adopted go to measure like loan waiver, increasing MSPs and DBT have failed to provide a holistic measure to address farm distress.
25. Discuss the options explored by the government to recoup loss from the proposed corporate tax cuts
26. What is a commercial paper? Enumerate the implications of using commercial paper as a source to raise funds.
27. Examine the impact of the corporate tax cut on the consumer prices
28. What are the findings of the RBI report States Finances: A Study of Budgets of 2019-20?
29. What are the recommendations of the RBI internal working group (IWG) to review agriculture credit?
30. Do you think that changes are needed in the higher echelons of RBI as no economic policy is forever. Examine this in light of lessons India should learn from Global Macroeconomics.
31. Examine the India wide trends in Agricultural Credit Outstandings.
32. Indian economy presents a paradox of high savings rate with low-income and high savings rate with low growth rate. Analyse.
33. India has joined new phase as it joined top outbound FDI club. Examine.
34. �What are your views on the �on tap� license released for the small finance banks?
35. What is the macroeconomic dilemma faced by the new Indian Government?
36. "Without modernization of technology, the target of doubling the farmers' income by year 2022 appears to be a pipe dream." Critically examine keeping in reference various technology interventions by the government.
37. The government will be able to completely cash in on the demographic dividend of the country by generating more employment opportunities for the youth. Comment.
38. What do you understand by the two-part tariff in Economics?
39. What in your opinion has been the role of KVIC in India in terms of job creation in the last 5 years?
40. What is Purchase Managers Index? What are its implications for the economy?
GS-III: Environment & Disaster Management
1. What do you know about White Throated Rails and Crested ibises? Explain in detail with their present status.
2. Indian fertilizer industry is growing day by day. Enumerate the environmental concerns related with the growth of this sector in India.
3. Identify the need for a climate resilient agriculture in India, discuss how it can be achieved.
4. India expects to achieve a net zero target by 2070 and an efficient carbon market is an important catalyst towards this goal. In this context, explain the mechanism of carbon markets.
5. How will the Golden Langur species benefit from the MGNREGA scheme?
6. Punjab is faced with a sharp decline in the groundwater. What in your opinion can prevent the state from further depletion of the precious resource which has already become a source of concern for the country?
7. Why is the problem of water-logging is still bringing havoc to the cities in Punjab?
8. Discuss the importance of decarbonizing the Indian iron and steel sector. How can Indian steel be made future ready?
9. There is an urgent need to protect forest rights in India right now. Enumerate some of the steps that should be taken to protect Forest rights.
10. What is the LiFE mission? How could it help India and other like-minded nations in its climate action?
11. In the light of November 3rd 2022 being observed as the first International Day for Biosphere Reserves, discuss the importance of biosphere reserves in conservation efforts. How can the world’s biosphere footprint be expanded?
12. What are the key highlights of the State of India�s Environment 2019? Discuss the concerns raised and measures required to be done.
13. While carbon pricing is considered an effective policy tool to curb carbon emissions and transition to cleaner sources of energy, there are several economic and social challenges associated with its implementation in the Indian context. Do the perceived challenges outweigh the environmental benefits of carbon pricing in India? Examine.
14. Glaciers in the Alps are melting faster than ever and Himalayan glaciers are melting at the fastest rate in the world. In this context, examine its consequences on the world and the importance of preserving glaciers.
15. In context of increased instances of flash floods in India, suggest measures for better resilience. Also, highlight the significance of flash flood guidance system (FFGS) operated by the Indian meteorological Department (IMD).
16. In the light of Vanuatu’s call for globally phasing out of fossil fuels, discuss the impacts of the climate crisis on small island nations. How COP27 address this problem?
17. Explain how are green crackers better than the conventional crackers.
18. The government of India had made an election promise that it will ensure speed and effectiveness for issuing environmental clearances. Why do you think that project nods for such green belts need more scrutiny?
19. What is the cause of the increase in the frequency of wildfires at the Bandipur Reserve?
20. While enumerating main characteristics of CFC-11, explain the current issues and controversies around it.
GS-III: Internal & External Security
1. To what extent media narratives shape public perception of internal security issues in India? Discuss critically what implications does this have for policymaking.
2. Enumerate the key highlights of the “Delhi declaration on countering the use of new and emerging technologies for service purposes”.
3. Discuss the advantages of the Agnipath scheme? What can be done to address the concerns raised by critics?
4. What are the historical and emerging challenges in the fight against terrorism? In view of India’s upcoming UNSC Presidency, examine the possible areas of action to boost international anti-terror efforts?
GS-III: Science & Technology
1. What are some of the key features of the Vande Bharat 2.0 train? How would it improve India’s railways?
2. What is the R21/Matrix-M vaccine? How does it compare to the RTS,S/AS01 vaccine that was approved by WHO in 2021?
3. What are the advantages and limitations of Li-FI over Wi-Fi? While throwing light on its functioning, discuss the main challenges in conversion of existing devices into Li-Fi enabled ones.
4. What is tokenization? What are the challenges and way ahead for this unique RBI initiative?
5. What do you understand by Optogenetics? Discuss its applications in healthcare.
6. What is DMH-11 that was recently approved by the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee? What are the advantages and challenges in its adoption?
7. What is Aditya-L1 mission? Discuss its objectives and importance.
8. What are the advantages of offshore wind energy projects over onshore projects? What are the associated challenges?
9. What are the benefits of a lithium ion battery? What are the challenges to its wide-spread usage? What can be done to overcome these challenges?
10. What are lead-acid batteries? How could these batteries help India in achieving the SDGs?
