Mock Test Paper - 2 (Geography Optional Paper- II): Answers | Geography Optional for UPSC PDF Download

Answers

Section A

Q1. (a) On the outline map of India provided, mark the location of the following. Write in your QCA Booklet the significance of these locations (physical/commercial/economic/ecological/environmental/cultural) in not more than 30 words each: 
(i) Siachen Glacier
(ii) Kudankulam
(iii) Great Nicobar Island
(iv) Mundra Port
(v) Ellora Caves
(vi) Kaziranga National Park
(vii) Atal Tunnel
(viii) Kutch Salt Pans
(ix) Talcher
(x) Krishna River
Ans: 
(i) Siachen Glacier: World’s highest battlefield; strategic military significance; regulates regional climate.
(ii) Kudankulam: Nuclear power plant; boosts energy security; supports industrial growth.
(iii) Great Nicobar Island: Strategic maritime location; biodiversity hotspot; ecotourism potential.
(iv) Mundra Port: India’s largest private port; facilitates trade; economic hub.
(v) Ellora Caves: UNESCO World Heritage Site; showcases ancient rock-cut architecture; cultural tourism.
(vi) Kaziranga National Park: UNESCO site; protects one-horned rhinos; biodiversity conservation.
(vii) Atal Tunnel: Enhances connectivity in Ladakh; strategic for defense; boosts tourism.
(viii) Kutch Salt Pans: Major salt production hub; supports local economy; unique ecosystem.
(ix) Talcher: Coal mining hub; powers thermal plants; drives industrial growth.
(x) Krishna River: Vital for irrigation; supports agriculture; cultural significance in South India.

Q1. (b) Describe the geological characteristics and economic importance of the Deccan Traps in India. Suggest a diagram.
Ans: The Deccan Traps, formed by volcanic activity 66 million years ago, cover Maharashtra, Gujarat, and parts of Madhya Pradesh. Comprising basalt layers, they influence soil fertility and groundwater. Economically, they host minerals like bauxite and support agriculture through black cotton soil. Industries benefit from hydropower and construction materials. Diagram: Cross-sectional view of basalt layers. 

Q1. (c) Examine the role of ISRO’s INSAT satellites in agricultural monitoring and rural development in India.
Ans: ISRO’s INSAT satellites provide real-time data for agricultural monitoring, enabling crop health assessment, yield prediction, and drought management. They support rural development through telemedicine, weather forecasting, and disaster alerts. For example, INSAT-3D aids in monitoring monsoon patterns, benefiting farmers in 2024. These satellites enhance precision agriculture and connectivity, fostering rural economic growth. 

Q1. (d) (PYQ) Discuss the impact of the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010 on forest conservation in India.
Ans: The National Green Tribunal Act, 2010, established a specialized body to address environmental disputes, significantly impacting forest conservation. It enforces compliance with forest laws, penalizes illegal logging, and promotes afforestation. Landmark judgments, like the 2023 Western Ghats case, restricted mining, protecting biodiversity. However, implementation challenges and industrial pressures limit effectiveness. 

Q2. (a) Analyze the environmental and socio-economic challenges posed by urban sprawl in India’s Tier-1 cities and suggest mitigation measures. Include a case study of Bengaluru (2024).
Ans: 
Introduction: Urban sprawl in India’s Tier-1 cities like Bengaluru creates environmental degradation and socio-economic challenges, straining resources and infrastructure.
Body:

• Environmental Issues: Loss of green cover, air pollution, and water scarcity. Bengaluru’s Bellandur Lake pollution (2024) exemplifies untreated sewage issues.

• Socio-Economic Challenges: Slum proliferation, traffic congestion, and inadequate housing.

• Mitigation Measures: Green urban planning, waste management systems, and public transport expansion like Bengaluru’s Namma Metro.
  Conclusion: Sustainable urban policies and community engagement are vital for balanced growth. 

Q2. (b) Why are mangroves considered critical for coastal ecosystems? Discuss their conservation challenges and opportunities in India with reference to Sundarbans. Suggest a diagram.
Ans: 
Introduction: Mangroves are vital for coastal ecosystems, acting as natural barriers and biodiversity hubs.
Body:

• Ecological Role: Protect against erosion, storms; support marine life. Sundarbans hosts Royal Bengal Tigers.

• Conservation Challenges: Deforestation, shrimp farming, climate change. 2024 cyclones damaged Sundarbans.

• Opportunities: Community-based restoration, ecotourism, carbon credits.
  Conclusion: Integrated policies can ensure mangrove sustainability. Diagram: Mangrove ecosystem structure. 

Q2. (c) (PYQ) Examine the geostrategic significance of Indian islands.
Ans: 
Introduction: Indian islands like Andaman and Lakshadweep hold geostrategic importance in the Indian Ocean Region.
Body:

• Strategic Location: Control maritime routes; counter China’s String of Pearls.

• Military Significance: Naval bases strengthen defense.

• Economic Potential: Fisheries, tourism, and blue economy.
  Conclusion: Leveraging islands enhances India’s regional influence. 

Q3. (a) Evaluate the potential of India’s renewable energy sector in achieving energy security and reducing carbon emissions. Highlight the role of the PM Suryodaya Yojana (2024).
Ans: 
Introduction: India’s renewable energy sector is pivotal for energy security and climate goals.
Body:

• Solar Energy: PM Suryodaya Yojana (2024) targets 100 GW solar capacity.

• Wind and Hydro: Contribute to 40% renewable mix.

• Challenges: Land acquisition, grid integration.

• Carbon Reduction: Aligns with Paris Agreement.
  Conclusion: Scaling renewables ensures sustainable growth. 

Q3. (b) Discuss the causes and consequences of desertification in India with special reference to Rajasthan. Suggest sustainable management strategies.
Ans: 
Introduction: Desertification in Rajasthan degrades land, impacting livelihoods.
Body:

• Causes: Overgrazing, deforestation, climate change.

• Consequences: Reduced agriculture, migration. 2024 droughts worsened conditions.

• Management: Afforestation, drip irrigation, community programs.
  Conclusion: Sustainable practices can curb desertification. 

Q3. (c) Critically examine the impact of India’s Look East Policy on its trade and connectivity with ASEAN countries.
Ans: 
Introduction: India’s Look East Policy boosts ASEAN trade and connectivity.
Body:

• Trade Growth: India-ASEAN trade reached $100 billion in 2024.

• Connectivity: India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway enhances logistics.

• Challenges: Infrastructure gaps, geopolitical tensions.
  Conclusion: Strengthened ties promote regional stability. 

Q4. (a) With increasing digital penetration, how can India leverage its IT sector for economic growth and global competitiveness? Discuss with reference to India’s AI Mission (2024).
Ans: 
Introduction: India’s IT sector drives economic growth, with AI Mission (2024) enhancing global competitiveness.
Body:

• Economic Contribution: IT exports worth $200 billion in 2024.

• AI Mission: Promotes innovation, skill development.

• Challenges: Data privacy, skill gaps.
  Conclusion: Strategic investments will sustain IT leadership. 

Q4. (b) Assess the challenges of groundwater depletion in the Indo-Gangetic Plain and suggest measures for sustainable water management. Suggest a diagram.
Ans: 
Introduction: Groundwater depletion in the Indo-Gangetic Plain threatens agriculture and water security.
Body:

• Causes: Over-extraction, inefficient irrigation.

• Consequences: Falling water tables, salinity. 2024 Punjab crisis highlighted issues.

• Solutions: Rainwater harvesting, micro-irrigation.
  Conclusion: Policy reforms ensure sustainability. Diagram: Groundwater depletion cycle. 

Q4. (c) (PYQ) Highlight the salient features of India's trade policy. Discuss the status of India's balance of trade with China.
Ans: 
Introduction: India’s trade policy promotes exports and economic growth, but trade deficits with China persist.
Body:

• Policy Features: Export incentives, FTAs.

• Trade with China: $100 billion deficit in 2024.

• Challenges: Over-reliance on Chinese imports.
  Conclusion: Diversifying trade partners is crucial. 

Section B

Q5. (a) Identify the major tea-producing regions in India and discuss the reasons for the decline of the tea industry.
Ans: Major tea-producing regions include Assam, West Bengal, and Tamil Nadu. Decline due to aging plantations, high labor costs, climate change, and competition from cheaper global markets like Kenya. 

Q5. (b) Explain the impact of urbanization on the hydrological cycle in India’s metropolitan cities.
Ans: Urbanization disrupts the hydrological cycle in cities like Delhi, causing reduced groundwater recharge, increased runoff, and flooding. Impervious surfaces and poor drainage exacerbate water scarcity and pollution. 

Q5. (c) Discuss the ecological significance of the Western Ghats and the threats they face.
Ans: Western Ghats, a biodiversity hotspot, support endemic species and regulate monsoons. Threats include mining, deforestation, and tourism. 2024 landslides in Kerala highlight conservation urgency. 

Q5. (d) Examine the role of cultural festivals in shaping India’s regional identity.
Ans: Cultural festivals like Pongal, Durga Puja, and Diwali shape regional identities, fostering social cohesion and economic activity through tourism and local crafts, reflecting India’s diverse heritage. 

Q5. (e) Why is the development of critical infrastructure like ports crucial for India’s economic growth?
Ans: Ports like Mundra and Chennai drive trade, industrial growth, and job creation. They enhance supply chains and attract FDI, critical for India’s $5 trillion economy goal. 

Q6. (a) Discuss the evolution of India’s industrial corridors and their role in regional development. Highlight the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC).
Ans: 
Introduction: Industrial corridors like DMIC foster regional development through infrastructure and investment.
Body:

• Evolution: Initiated in 2008, DMIC spans six states.

• Economic Impact: Creates jobs, boosts manufacturing.

• Challenges: Land acquisition delays.
  Conclusion: Corridors drive inclusive growth. 

Q6. (b) Evaluate the potential of rooftop solar energy in addressing India’s urban energy demands. Discuss challenges and opportunities.
Ans: 
Introduction: Rooftop solar addresses urban energy needs sustainably.
Body:

• Potential: Reduces grid dependency.

• Challenges: High costs, policy gaps.

• Opportunities: Subsidies, net metering.
  Conclusion: Scaling adoption is key. 

Q6. (c) Examine the geopolitical implications of India’s maritime security strategy in the Indian Ocean Region. 
Ans: 
Introduction: India’s maritime security strategy strengthens its Indian Ocean influence.
Body:

• Naval Expansion: INS Vikrant deployment (2024).

• Challenges: China’s naval presence.

• Implications: Secures trade routes.
  Conclusion: Robust strategy ensures dominance. 

Q7. (a) Analyze India’s efforts in achieving sustainable urban development through the Smart Cities Mission. Include a case study of Ahmedabad (2024).
Ans: 
Introduction: Smart Cities Mission promotes sustainable urban development.
Body:

• Achievements: Ahmedabad’s smart infrastructure (2024).

• Challenges: Funding, inclusivity.

• Solutions: PPP models, citizen participation.
  Conclusion: Mission drives urban transformation. 

Q7. (b) Discuss the significance of agroforestry in promoting sustainable agriculture in India. Suggest measures to scale it up.
Ans: 
Introduction: Agroforestry supports sustainable agriculture by integrating trees with crops.
Body:

• Benefits: Enhances soil fertility, carbon sequestration.

• Challenges: Awareness, land tenure.

• Solutions: Training, subsidies.
  Conclusion: Agroforestry ensures long-term sustainability. 

Q7. (c) Critically examine the socio-economic impacts of the PM Ujjwala Yojana on rural India (2024).
Ans: 
Introduction: PM Ujjwala Yojana provides clean cooking fuel, transforming rural lives.
Body:

• Socio-Economic Impacts: Improved health, women empowerment.

• Challenges: Refill affordability.

• 2024 Update: Expanded coverage.
  Conclusion: Sustained support enhances impact. 

Q8. (a) Why does India face regional disparities in economic development? Suggest measures to promote inclusive growth across states.
Ans: 
Introduction: Regional disparities hinder India’s inclusive growth.
Body:

• Causes: Uneven infrastructure, resource distribution.

• Measures: Skill development, regional investments.

• Case Study: Northeast development (2024).
  Conclusion: Balanced policies ensure equity. 

Q8. (b) Assess the tourism potential of India’s Himalayan region and the environmental challenges associated with it. Suggest a diagram.
Ans: 
Introduction: Himalayan tourism offers economic benefits but faces environmental risks.
Body:

• Potential: Adventure, spiritual tourism.

• Challenges: Deforestation, waste. 2024 Uttarakhand floods highlight risks.

• Solutions: Eco-friendly tourism.
  Conclusion: Sustainable practices are vital. Diagram: Tourism impact cycle. 

Q8. (c) Discuss the regional variations in educational attainment in India and their implications for human development.
Ans: 
Introduction: Educational attainment varies across Indian states, impacting human development.
Body:

• Variations: Kerala excels; Bihar lags.

• Implications: Uneven employability, growth.

• Solutions: Infrastructure, teacher training.
  Conclusion: Equitable education drives progress.