Free for every aspirant · Part of the UPSC Gurus Open Library

UPSC Mains 2023 General Studies Paper I

Explore the complete UPSC Mains GS Paper I question paper from 2023, 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.

Civil Services (Main) Examination, 2023Time Allowed: Three HoursMaximum Marks: 250

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.

Question Paper Specific Instructions

  • There are TWENTY questions printed both in HINDI and in ENGLISH.
  • All questions are compulsory.
  • The number of marks carried by a question/part is indicated against it.
  • Answers to Question Nos. 1 to 10 should be in 150 words each, whereas answers to Question Nos. 11 to 20 should be in 250 words each.
  • Keep the word limit indicated in the questions in mind.
  • 1

    Explain the role of geographical factors towards the development of Ancient India.

    Answer in about 150 words
    10marks
  • 2

    What was the difference between Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore in their approach towards education and nationalism?

    Answer in about 150 words
    10marks
  • 3

    Bring out the socio-economic effects of the introduction of railways in different countries of the world.

    Answer in about 150 words
    10marks
  • 4

    Discuss the consequences of climate change on the food security in tropical countries.

    Answer in about 150 words
    10marks
  • 5

    Why is the world today confronted with a crisis of availability of and access to freshwater resources?

    Answer in about 150 words
    10marks
  • 6

    How are the fjords formed? Why do they constitute some of the most picturesque areas of the world?

    Answer in about 150 words
    10marks
  • 7

    Why is the South-West Monsoon called 'Purvaiya' (easterly) in Bhojpur Region? How has this directional seasonal wind system influenced the cultural ethos of the region?

    Answer in about 150 words
    10marks
  • 8

    Do you think marriage as a sacrament is loosing its value in Modern India?

    Answer in about 150 words
    10marks
  • 9

    Explain why suicide among young women is increasing in Indian society.

    Answer in about 150 words
    10marks
  • 10

    Child cuddling is now being replaced by mobile phones. Discuss its impact on the socialization of children.

    Answer in about 150 words
    10marks
  • 11

    What are the main features of Vedic society and religion? Do you think some of the features are still prevailing in Indian society?

    Answer in about 250 words
    15marks
  • 12

    What were the major technological changes introduced during the Sultanate period? How did those technological changes influence the Indian society?

    Answer in about 250 words
    15marks
  • 13

    How did the colonial rule affect the tribals in India and what was the tribal response to the colonial oppression?

    Answer in about 250 words
    15marks
  • 14

    Comment on the resource potentials of the long coastline of India and highlight the status of natural hazard preparedness in these areas.

    Answer in about 250 words
    15marks
  • 15

    Identify and discuss the factors responsible for diversity of natural vegetation in India. Assess the significance of wildlife sanctuaries in rain forest regions of India.

    Answer in about 250 words
    15marks
  • 16

    Why did human development fail to keep pace with economic development in India?

    Answer in about 250 words
    15marks
  • 17

    From being net food importer in 1960s, India has emerged as a net food exporter to the world. Provide reasons.

    Answer in about 250 words
    15marks
  • 18

    Does urbanization lead to more segregation and/or marginalization of the poor in Indian metropolises?

    Answer in about 250 words
    15marks
  • 19

    Why is caste identity in India both fluid and static?

    Answer in about 250 words
    15marks
  • 20

    Discuss the impact of post-liberal economy on ethnic identity and communalism.

    Answer in about 250 words
    15marks
  • Get Your Answers Personally Evaluated

    Finished practising? You can choose a written evaluation and personal feedback session through Mains Mastery: ₹1,499 per paper, including GST, with your evaluation emailed within five working days.

    Get This Paper Evaluated

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