Please read each of the following instructions carefully before attempting questions:
Q1. Answer the following in about 150-170 words each: (10 × 5 = 50 marks)
(a) Examine the limitations of the systems approach in studying Political Science.
(b) Discuss the challenges faced by developing nations in combating climate change in the globalized world.
(c) [PYQ] Discuss the commonalities between the Marxist and Realist approaches to the study of International Politics.
(d) Evaluate the role of soft power in shaping international relations in the 21st century.
(e) Comment on the relevance of the concept of sovereignty in an interconnected world.
Q2.
(a) How has digital democracy enhanced citizen participation in governance? Illustrate with examples from 2024-2025. (20 marks)
(b) (PYQ) Discuss the conceptual dimensions of collective security. (15 marks)
(c) Analyze the impact of cyber warfare on global security frameworks. (15 marks)
Q3.
(a) Critically assess the rise of India as a global power and its implications for the Indo-Pacific region. (20 marks)
(b) Discuss the challenges in achieving global consensus on nuclear disarmament. (15 marks)
(c) Evaluate the role of the United Nations in addressing humanitarian crises, with reference to Sudan (2024-2025). (15 marks)
Q4.
(a) Examine the reasons for the stalemate in WTO negotiations on digital trade between developed and developing countries. (20 marks)
(b) Discuss the realist perspective on achieving national security in a multipolar world. (15 marks)
(c) (PYQ) Discuss the efficacy of global conventions to combat international terrorism. (15 marks)
Q5. Answer the following in about 150-170 words each: (10 × 5 = 50 marks)
(a) Comment on the role of India's neighborhood-first policy in fostering regional stability.
(b) Discuss the significance of the Quad in countering China's influence in the Indo-Pacific.
(c) Explain the importance of India's renewable energy diplomacy in global climate negotiations.
(d) (PYQ) Explain the significance of the Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement (BECA) for Indo-US strategic relations.
(e) Analyze the role of the Indian diaspora in strengthening India's global influence.
Q6.
(a) Discuss the relevance of India's advocacy for a reformed multilateral system in the 21st century. (20 marks)
(b) Examine the implications of India's Act East Policy on its trade relations with ASEAN. (15 marks)
(c) Discuss the factors behind India's push for a permanent seat in the UN Security Council. (15 marks)
Q7.
(a) Analyze how India's strategic partnership with France reflects its multi-alignment foreign policy. (20 marks)
(b) Discuss the consequences of cross-border terrorism in India's security framework, with reference to Jammu & Kashmir (2024-2025). (15 marks)
(c) Evaluate the role of BRICS in shaping a multipolar world order. (15 marks)
Q8.
(a) Examine how India-Australia bilateral ties contribute to Indo-Pacific security. (20 marks)
(b) Discuss the challenges of illegal migration in India's eastern borders, with reference to the India-Myanmar border (2024-2025). (15 marks)
(c) Analyze India's vision for a rules-based global order in the 21st century. (15 marks)
| 1. What are the key themes covered in the PSIR Optional Paper - II for UPSC? | ![]() |
| 2. How can one effectively prepare for PSIR Optional Paper - II in the UPSC exam? | ![]() |
| 3. What are some important books recommended for PSIR Optional Paper - II preparation? | ![]() |
| 4. What type of questions can be expected in PSIR Optional Paper - II? | ![]() |
| 5. How important is current affairs knowledge for the PSIR Optional Paper - II? | ![]() |