UPSC Mains 2026 Geography Paper II

Section A

1. 1

   Question 1

   50marks
   1. 1(a)

      On the outline map of India provided to you, mark the location of all of the following. Write in your QCA Booklet the significance of these locations, whether physical / commercial / economic / ecological / environmental / cultural, in no more than 30 words for each entry: (i) Bitra Island (ii) Lohit River (iii) Dras (iv) Kuno National Park (v) Yadadri (vi) Mahi Basin (vii) Tamralipta (viii) Toranmal (ix) Raya Heritage City (x) Varkala [Outline map of India provided for question no. 1(a)]

      Answer in about 30 words
      20marks
   2. 1(b)

      Briefly describe the origin, distribution and economic significance of Cuddapah and Dharwar rock systems of India.

      10marks
   3. 1(c)

      Explain the vertical zonation of vegetation of the Himalayas.

      10marks
   4. 1(d)

      Describe the geographical conditions necessary for the growth of mangrove forests in India. Explain their ecological and economic significance.

      10marks
2. 2

   Question 2

   50marks
   1. 2(a)

      The relationship between El Nino and the Indian monsoon is becoming complex under the conditions of global warming. Critically examine.

      20marks
   2. 2(b)

      Discuss the role of the private sector in the technological advancements of the defence industry in India.

      15marks
   3. 2(c)

      Explain the global supply chain for the fertilizer industry in India. How do international prices of key inputs affect domestic production?

      15marks
3. 3

   Question 3

   50marks
   1. 3(a)

      Examine the causes and consequences of crop diversification in India. How can crop diversification contribute to sustainable agriculture?

      20marks
   2. 3(b)

      India's vulnerability to maritime choke-points has increased sharply over time due to geopolitical tensions. Discuss.

      15marks
   3. 3(c)

      Efficient use of energy resources can resolve the energy crisis in India. Comment.

      15marks
4. 4

   Question 4

   50marks
   1. 4(a)

      Analyse the spatial distribution of India's automobile industry. How have the clusters like Chennai, Pune and Gurugram emerged as key auto-hubs?

      20marks
   2. 4(b)

      Describe the role of energy pipelines in the industrial development and in reducing the regional imbalances in India.

      15marks
   3. 4(c)

      Divide India into agro-ecological regions and highlight the salient features of any one of them.

      15marks

Section B

1. 5

   Question 5

   50marks
   1. 5(a)

      Analyse the consequences of circular migration in India. How does it influence both rural development and the urban economy?

      10marks
   2. 5(b)

      Explain the government initiatives for the redevelopment of slum areas in the mega cities of India.

      10marks
   3. 5(c)

      Discuss how Panchayati Raj institutions play a crucial role in the empowerment of women in India.

      10marks
   4. 5(d)

      "India's approach to the Indian Ocean is cooperative rather than coercive." Critically examine the statement.

      10marks
   5. 5(e)

      Disaster risk reduction and community resilience are the two pillars that need to be prioritized in the flood prone areas of India. Critically analyse.

      10marks
2. 6

   Question 6

   50marks
   1. 6(a)

      Examine the trends in fertility rates across Indian states over time. How are they projected to evolve by 2050?

      20marks
   2. 6(b)

      Soil and water conservation are the major challenges in the development of hill areas of India. Explain.

      15marks
   3. 6(c)

      With reference to the international boundary between India and Bangladesh, discuss the related issues and challenges.

      15marks
3. 7

   Question 7

   50marks
   1. 7(a)

      Why is it difficult to improve the quality of air during the winter season in the Gangetic plain? Critically evaluate with suitable examples.

      20marks
   2. 7(b)

      Deforestation in the upper reaches of a river augments the magnitude of soil erosion. Elaborate your answer citing the example of any North Indian river.

      15marks
   3. 7(c)

      Assess the role of geographical isolation in preserving tribal culture, as well as hindering their socio-economic development in India.

      15marks
4. 8

   Question 8

   50marks
   1. 8(a)

      Critically examine the strategic, economic and ecological impacts of the proposed 'Great Nicobar Project'.

      20marks
   2. 8(b)

      Poor road infrastructure and inadequate public transport system remain the key issues in Indian metropolitan areas. Discuss with suitable examples.

      15marks
   3. 8(c)

      Critically examine the environmental and economic consequences of India's rise as a global data centre hub.

      15marks

Typed by UPSC Gurus from the official UPSC question paper. Spotted an error? Tell us on WhatsApp at 81220 02172.