UPSC Mains 2019 Political Science and International Relations Paper II
Explore the complete UPSC Mains PSIR Paper II question paper from 2019, 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.
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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
Answer the following in about 150 words each:
50marks- 1(a)10marks
Discuss the utility of Nuclear Deterrence Theory in the context of the recent standoff between India and Pakistan.
- 1(b)10marks
Write a brief note on the 17th NAM Summit in Venezuela.
- 1(c)10marks
In what way does the predominance of the USA in the UN funding affect its decision-making?
- 1(d)10marks
Evaluate the role of BIMSTEC in multi-sectoral technical and economic cooperation.
- 1(e)10marks
Do you think that sustainable development goals are really attainable by 2030?
- 1(a)
- 2
Question 2
50marks- 2(a)20marks
Examine the significance of the comparative method in political analysis. Discuss its limitations.
- 2(b)15marks
Explain the reasons for low voter turnout in democratic countries with suitable examples.
- 2(c)15marks
Evaluate the role of the International Court of Justice in inter-State disputes.
- 2(a)
- 3
Question 3
50marks- 3(a)20marks
Explain the relevance of the Marxist approach in the context of globalization.
- 3(b)15marks
Identify the benefits of a multi-polar world.
- 3(c)15marks
Discuss the importance of personal data protection in the context of human rights.
- 3(a)
- 4
Question 4
50marks- 4(a)20marks
How are the rising powers challenging the USA and Western dominance in the IMF and the World Bank?
- 4(b)15marks
Write an essay on 'New Social Movements' in developing countries.
- 4(c)15marks
Is democracy promotion in developing countries a feasible idea?
- 4(a)
Section B
- 5
Answer the following in about 150 words each:
50marks- 5(a)10marks
Examine the role of 'parliamentary diplomacy' in India's foreign policy.
- 5(b)10marks
Compare and contrast Non-alignment 1·0 with Non-alignment 2·0.
- 5(c)10marks
How is India pursuing her foreign policy objectives through the IBSA Dialogue Forum (India, Brazil and South Africa)?
- 5(d)10marks
How is India responding to the idea of Indo-Pacific?
- 5(e)10marks
"The growing closeness between India and Israel will strengthen the cause of Palestine." Comment.
- 5(a)
- 6
Question 6
50marks- 6(a)20marks
Describe briefly China's 'One Belt One Road (OBOR)' Initiative and analyze India's major concerns.
- 6(b)15marks
What are the current issues in Brahmaputra River water sharing between India and China?
- 6(c)15marks
Analyze the recent trends in India's role in the UN peacekeeping operations.
- 6(a)
- 7
Question 7
50marks- 7(a)20marks
Examine the increasing significance of maritime security in India's foreign policy.
- 7(b)15marks
Write a brief note on India's interests in West Asia.
- 7(c)15marks
How is the current standoff between the USA and Iran affecting India's energy security?
- 7(a)
- 8
Question 8
50marks- 8(a)20marks
Evaluate India's vision of a new world order.
- 8(b)15marks
Critically examine India's position on South China Sea Dispute.
- 8(c)15marks
Given the recent developments in the region, do you think that there is a need to change India's 'No First Use (NFU)' nuclear policy?
- 8(a)
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