UPSC Mains 2018 Sociology Paper II
Explore the complete UPSC Mains Sociology Paper II question paper from 2018, with every question clearly presented alongside its marks and word limit. Read online or download either PDF edition free.
The official PDF is UPSC’s own bilingual file. The UPSC Gurus edition is a clean English version formatted for easy reading and printing.
Practise Under the Exam Clock
Set aside three hours, start the clock and write your answers on paper, just as you would in the examination. Nothing needs to be uploaded.
Your Three Hours Are Complete
You have completed a full-length writing practice. Take time to reflect on your answers, or choose an evaluation for detailed feedback.
Question Paper Specific Instructions
- There are EIGHT questions divided in TWO SECTIONS.
- Candidate has to attempt FIVE questions in all.
- Question Nos. 1 and 5 are compulsory and out of the remaining, THREE are to be attempted choosing at least ONE question from each Section.
- The number of marks carried by a question/part is indicated against it.
- Word limit in questions, wherever specified, should be adhered to.
Section A
- 1
Write short answers, with a sociological perspective, of the following questions in about 150 words each:
50marks- 1(a)10marks
Write a note on G. S. Ghurye's Indological perspective of understanding Indian society.
- 1(b)10marks
Give a critical analysis of Andre Beteille's study of Tanjore village.
- 1(c)10marks
Media is the fourth pillar of democracy. Discuss.
- 1(d)10marks
Write a note on the changing roles of middle-class women in India.
- 1(e)10marks
Discuss the growth of religious sects in India.
- 1(a)
- 2
Question 2
50marks- 2(a)20marks
Analyze A. R. Desai's views on India's path of development.
- 2(b)20marks
Examine sociological dynamics of Champaran Peasant Movement in colonial India.
- 2(c)10marks
How do the recommendations of Swaminathan Commission (2004-2006) ensure food and nutrition security for the Indian masses?
- 2(a)
- 3
Question 3
50marks- 3(a)20marks
What do you understand by discrete castes and muddled hierarchies? Substantiate your answer with suitable illustrations.
- 3(b)20marks
Discuss development-induced displacement in the context of tribal uprising in India. Substantiate your answer with any one detailed illustration from India.
- 3(c)10marks
Illustrate the importance of 'Kanyadan' and 'Kulabadhu' in changing institutions of marriage and family.
- 3(a)
- 4
Question 4
50marks- 4(a)20marks
How has the New Economic Policy (1991) affected the lifestyle and life-chances of new middle class in India?
- 4(b)20marks
Write a critical narrative on the concerns of religious minorities in India.
- 4(c)10marks
Discuss the issues relating to the entitlement of transgender in Indian society.
- 4(a)
Section B
- 5
Write short answers, with a sociological perspective, of the following questions in about 150 words each:
50marks- 5(a)10marks
Elaborate the concept of constitutional morality as given by B. R. Ambedkar.
- 5(b)10marks
Construct a sociological narrative on the increasing trend of child abuse in India.
- 5(c)10marks
Explain the dynamics of neo-farmers' movement in contemporary India.
- 5(d)10marks
Assess the role of the State in promoting education of girl child.
- 5(e)10marks
Elaborate the 'Me Too' Movement and its impact in India.
- 5(a)
- 6
Question 6
50marks- 6(a)20marks
How do you relate the growth of development of metropolis and its impact on the mental and social life of people in India?
- 6(b)20marks
Has 'Green Revolution' led to the formation of new power elite in rural India? Elaborate your answer.
- 6(c)10marks
Write a note on Basic Services to Urban Poor (BSUP) and Integrated Housing and Slum Development (IHSD) programmes provided for the urban poor.
- 6(a)
- 7
Question 7
50marks- 7(a)20marks
Has caste system hindered democracy and adult franchise in India? Discuss.
- 7(b)20marks
Elaborate various forms of Dalit assertions in contemporary India. What are its implications on the Indian political system?
- 7(c)10marks
With increase in education and economic development is Indian society becoming more secular?
- 7(a)
- 8
Question 8
50marks- 8(a)20marks
What are the issues relating to male migration and its impact on birthrate? Does it necessarily result in skewed sex ratio?
- 8(b)20marks
Western patriarchy which surrenders feminine principles is the new development project in India. Do you agree with this view? Why?
- 8(c)10marks
Assess the impact of ban on 'Triple Talak' on marriage and divorce among the Muslim community in India.
- 8(a)
Get Your Answers Personally Evaluated
Finished practising? You can choose a written evaluation and personal feedback session through Sociology School: ₹1,499 per paper, including GST, with your evaluation emailed within five working days.
Get This Paper EvaluatedTyped by UPSC Gurus from the official UPSC question paper. Spotted an error? Tell us on WhatsApp at 81220 02172.

