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

​Please read each of the following instructions before attempting the questions 

1. There are EIGHT questions divided into TWO SECTIONS, printed in ENGLISH.
2. The candidate must attempt FIVE questions in total.
3. Questions number 1 and 5 are compulsory, and from the remaining, any THREE should be attempted, with at least ONE question from each section.
4. The number of marks for each question/part is indicated against it.
5. Answers must be written in the medium authorized in the Admission Certificate, which should be stated clearly on the cover of the Question-cum-Answer (QCA) booklet. No marks will be given for answers written in a medium other than the authorized one.
6. Word limits, where specified, must be adhered to.
7. Answers should be illustrated with appropriate sketches, maps, and diagrams where considered necessary, using the space provided for answering the question itself.
8. Attempts at questions will be counted in sequential order. Any attempt at a question, whether partial or complete, should be marked. If a question is not to be attempted, it must be struck off clearly.

SECTION A

Q1. Answer the following in about 150 words each (10 × 5 = 50 marks):
(a) Explain the concept of ‘glacial troughs’. Where and how are they formed?
(b) Discuss the role of jet streams in influencing global weather patterns.
(c) With suitable examples, explain the factors causing sea level changes. (PYQ 2024)
(d) Assess the role of agroforestry in mitigating climate change impacts in rural India.
(e) Highlight the vulnerability of coastal ecosystems to anthropogenic activities with recent examples.

Q2.
(a) Critically analyze the plate tectonics theory in explaining mountain formation, with examples of major mountain ranges. (20 marks)
(b) Describe the spatial distribution of Thornthwaite’s climatic classification system. (15 marks)
(c) Using sketches, explain the geomorphological features of the Pacific Ocean floor. (15 marks)

Q3.
(a) Explain air masses and associated weather dynamics. How do air masses influence the weather conditions of the Northern Hemisphere? (20 marks) (PYQ 2024)
(b) Evaluate the impact of soil degradation on agricultural productivity and suggest conservation strategies. (15 marks)
(c) Discuss the role of environmental ethics in promoting sustainable biodiversity conservation. (15 marks)

Q4.
(a) Examine the significance of achieving net-zero emissions for global environmental sustainability, with reference to international initiatives in 2024–2025. (20 marks)
(b) What is a Yazoo stream? Why are Yazoo basins areas of repeated flooding? Give examples of Yazoo stream/areas from various parts of the world. (15 marks) (PYQ 2024)
(c) Analyze the role of altitudinal gradients in shaping biodiversity patterns with examples. (15 marks)

SECTION B

Q5. Answer the following in about 150 words each (10 × 5 = 50 marks):
(a) Discuss the relevance of the quantitative revolution in the evolution of human geography.
(b) Examine the global causes of groundwater depletion with local impacts in India.
(c) Analyze the shifting role of suburban areas in the economic structure of metropolitan cities.
(d) Explain the importance of inclusive urban planning for sustainable development.
(e) Critically evaluate the applicability of Harris and Ullman’s multiple nuclei model in modern cities.

Q6.
(a) Discuss the challenges of rapid urbanization in South Asia, focusing on slum proliferation and social exclusion, with recent case studies. (20 marks)
(b) Explain how remote sensing has transformed spatial analysis in geographical studies. (15 marks)
(c) Assess the relevance of Mackinder’s Heartland theory in the context of 2024–2025 geopolitical dynamics. (15 marks)

Q7.
(a) Analyze the basis of Von Thunen’s agricultural location theory and its relevance in modern farming systems. (20 marks)
(b) Discuss the concept of diaspora and the growing role of digital connectivity in transnational networks. (15 marks)
(c) Evaluate the role of participatory approaches in regional planning with examples. (15 marks)

Q8.
(a) Explain the concept of functional regions and describe their types based on Christaller’s Central Place Theory. (20 marks)
(b) Analyze the global shift in renewable energy infrastructure development with emphasis on 2024–2025 trends. (15 marks)
(c) Discuss the demographic implications of aging populations in developed countries with a focus on migration trends. (15 marks)