Mock Test Paper - 1 (PSIR Optional Paper- I): Questions | PSIR Optional for UPSC PDF Download

Instructions 

1. There are EIGHT questions divided in two Sections and printed both in HINDI and in ENGLISH. 
2. 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. 
3. The number of marks carried by a question/part is indicated against it. Answers must be written in the medium authorized in the Admission Certificate which must be stated clearly on the cover of this Question-cum-Answer (QCA) Booklet in the space provided. 
4. No marks will be given for answers written in a medium other than the authorized one. Word limit in questions, wherever specified, should be adhered to. 
5. Attempts of questions shall be counted in sequential order. Unless struck off, attempt of a question shall be counted even if attempted partly. Any page or portion of the page left blank in the Question-cum-Answer Booklet must be clearly struck off

SECTION-A

Q1. Write approximately 150–170 words on each of the following (10 × 5 = 50):
(a) Post-Behavioural approach to Political Science
(b) Feminist critique of the State
(c) Rousseau’s views on General Will
(d) Rise of Neo-Liberalism in global politics
(e) Linkage between Authority and Responsibility

Q2. 
(a) Elucidate the meanings inherent in the term 'political' with appropriate illustrations. (20) [PYQ 2024]
(b) Critically examine the relevance of Aristotle’s classification of constitutions in contemporary governance. (15)
(c) Gandhian concept of Satyagraha as a tool for political resistance. Comment. (15)

Q3. 
(a) The debate on human rights is caught between the limitations of both universalism and cultural relativism. Comment. (20) [PYQ 2024]
(b) Discuss the significance of Hannah Arendt’s concept of ‘Banality of Evil’ in understanding modern political violence. (15)
(c) Relevance of Kautilya’s Arthashastra in modern statecraft. Comment. (15)

Q4. 
(a) Legitimacy adds positive value to political authority and obligation. Discuss. (20) [PYQ 2024]
(b) Examine the role of social contract theory in shaping modern democratic institutions. (15)
(c) Comment on the influence of Ambedkar’s ideas on social justice in shaping India’s constitutional framework. (15)

SECTION-B

Q5. Write approximately 150–170 words on each of the following (10 × 5 = 50):
(a) Role of Fundamental Duties in strengthening constitutional morality
(b) Significance of the 73rd Constitutional Amendment in rural governance
(c) Judicial activism in protecting environmental rights in India
(d) Role of National Human Rights Commission in India
(e) Impact of digital governance on Indian democracy

Q6. 
(a) Discuss the contribution of the Dalit struggle to establish egalitarianism in Indian society during freedom movement. (20) [PYQ 2024]
(b) Explain the structure and functions of the National Commission for Scheduled Castes. (15)
(c) Relevance of the Finance Commission in India’s federal structure. Comment. (15)

Q7. 
(a) Discuss the role of environmental movements in shaping environmental governance in India. (20) [PYQ 2024]
(b) Critically assess the role of civil society organizations in influencing policy-making in India. (15)
(c) Comment on the significance of the Preamble in guiding India’s constitutional ethos. (15)

Q8. 
(a) “Relative deprivation is a major source of ethnic conflict.” Elaborate the statement with relevant examples. (20) [PYQ 2024]
(b) Discuss the role of women’s movements in shaping gender policies in India. (15)
(c) Comment on the role of cooperative federalism in strengthening India’s governance framework. (15)