UPSC Exam  >  UPSC Notes  >  Anthropology Optional for UPSC  >  Mock Test Paper - 2 (Anthropology Optional Paper- II): Questions

Mock Test Paper - 2 (Anthropology Optional Paper- II): Questions | Anthropology Optional for UPSC PDF Download

Time Allowed: Three Hours
Maximum Marks: 250

Instructions:

  1. There are EIGHT questions divided into two Sections (A and B).

  2. Candidate has to attempt FIVE questions in all.

  3. Question Nos. 1 and 5 are compulsory. Out of the remaining, THREE are to be attempted choosing at least ONE question from each Section.

  4. The number of marks carried by a question/part is indicated against it.

  5. Answers must be written in the medium authorized in the Admission Certificate, clearly stated on the cover of the Question-cum-Answer (QCA) Booklet.

  6. Word limits in questions (10 marks: 150–170 words; 15 marks: 200–250 words; 20 marks: 300–350 words) must be adhered to.

  7. Attempts of questions shall be counted in sequential order. Unless struck off, an attempt will be counted even if partly answered. Blank pages in the QCA Booklet must be clearly struck off.


Section-A

Q1. Write notes on the following in about 150 words each: (10 × 5 = 50)
(a) Role of anthropology in understanding urban migration in India
(b) Jajmani system: continuity and change (PYQ)
(c) Cultural significance of megalithic structures in India
(d) Interface between Purushartha and Ashrama (PYQ)
(e) Anthropological perspectives on social media activism

Q2. 
(a) Critically evaluate the concept of Sanskritization as a framework for studying social change in India, with examples from 2024–2025. (20 marks)
(b) Discuss the impact of Jainism on Indian social and economic practices, with reference to its core principles. (15 marks)
(c) Examine the role of Mesolithic culture in the transition to sedentary lifestyles in India, with suitable examples. (PYQ) (15 marks)

Q3. 
(a) Discuss the challenges faced by Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in India and the issues in formulating development programs for them. (20 marks)
(b) Compare the anthropological approaches to classifying Indian populations, with reference to colonial and post-colonial perspectives. (15 marks)
(c) Elucidate the role of religious pluralism in fostering social solidarity in India, with examples from 2024–2025. (15 marks)

Q4. 
(a) Critically examine the impact of modern democratic institutions on tribal societies in India, with ethnographic examples from 2024–2025. (20 marks)
(b) Discuss the continuity and transformation of caste mobility in India, with reference to Indological and empirical contexts. (15 marks)
(c) Examine the archaeological evidence of Harappan urban planning, with reference to major sites. (15 marks)

Section B

Q5. Write notes on the following in about 150 words each: (10 × 5 = 50)
(a) Scheduled areas (PYQ)
(b) Role of anthropology in disaster management
(c) Dravidian languages and their cultural significance
(d) Anthropological insights into gender disparities in India
(e) Karma and rebirth (PYQ)

Q6. 
(a) Discuss the shifting paradigms of India’s tribal policies from colonial to post-colonial periods, with a critical assessment. (20 marks)
(b) Examine the factors contributing to ethnic conflicts in tribal areas of India, distinguishing between ethnic identity and ethnicity. (PYQ) (15 marks)
(c) Discuss the role of anthropology in nation-building, with suitable examples from 2024–2025. (15 marks)

Q7. 
(a) Critically evaluate the impact of displacement due to infrastructure projects on tribal women in India, with ethnographic examples from 2024–2025. (20 marks)
(b) Discuss the contributions of Verrier Elwin to Indian anthropology, with a critical perspective. (15 marks)
(c) Examine the socio-economic changes among Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in India, highlighting identification criteria. (15 marks)

Q8. 
(a) Discuss the distribution and institutional features of tribal societies across India’s geographical regions, with examples from 2024–2025. (20 marks)
(b) Examine the role of constitutional safeguards in addressing tribal development challenges in India. (15 marks)
(c) Discuss the impact of globalization on tribal economies in India, with examples from 2024–2025. (15 marks)

The document Mock Test Paper - 2 (Anthropology Optional Paper- II): Questions | Anthropology Optional for UPSC is a part of the UPSC Course Anthropology Optional for UPSC.
All you need of UPSC at this link: UPSC
209 videos|299 docs

FAQs on Mock Test Paper - 2 (Anthropology Optional Paper- II): Questions - Anthropology Optional for UPSC

1. What is the significance of anthropology in understanding human societies and cultures?
Ans. Anthropology plays a crucial role in understanding human societies and cultures by providing insights into cultural practices, social structures, and human behavior over time. It helps in analyzing how societies evolve, the interactions between different cultures, and the impact of globalization. Through ethnographic studies and comparative analysis, anthropology fosters a deeper appreciation of diversity and the complexities of human life.
2. What are the primary subfields of anthropology that students should focus on for the UPSC exam?
Ans. The primary subfields of anthropology that students should focus on for the UPSC exam include cultural anthropology, physical (or biological) anthropology, archaeology, and linguistic anthropology. Each subfield offers unique perspectives and methodologies for studying human behavior, evolution, and cultural practices, making it essential for a comprehensive understanding of the discipline.
3. How can candidates effectively prepare for the anthropology optional paper in the UPSC exam?
Ans. Candidates can effectively prepare for the anthropology optional paper by starting with a structured study plan that includes a thorough review of the syllabus, studying standard textbooks, and referring to previous years' question papers. Joining study groups, attending coaching classes, and engaging in discussions with peers can also enhance understanding. Regular revision and practice writing essays and answers within the exam time limit are vital for success.
4. What are some common challenges faced by students studying anthropology for the UPSC exam?
Ans. Some common challenges faced by students studying anthropology for the UPSC exam include the vastness of the syllabus, difficulty in understanding complex theoretical concepts, and the need for extensive memorization of terminologies and case studies. Additionally, students may struggle with time management during preparation and while writing answers in the exam due to the subject's analytical nature.
5. How important is current affairs knowledge in the context of anthropology for the UPSC exam?
Ans. Current affairs knowledge is crucial for the anthropology optional paper in the UPSC exam as it helps students relate theoretical concepts to contemporary issues. Understanding current social, cultural, and political dynamics enhances the ability to analyze and discuss anthropological topics critically. It also prepares candidates to tackle questions that require an application of anthropological perspectives to real-world scenarios.
Related Searches

Extra Questions

,

Viva Questions

,

Mock Test Paper - 2 (Anthropology Optional Paper- II): Questions | Anthropology Optional for UPSC

,

video lectures

,

Exam

,

pdf

,

ppt

,

Semester Notes

,

MCQs

,

Summary

,

mock tests for examination

,

practice quizzes

,

Previous Year Questions with Solutions

,

Objective type Questions

,

Sample Paper

,

Free

,

Mock Test Paper - 2 (Anthropology Optional Paper- II): Questions | Anthropology Optional for UPSC

,

past year papers

,

Mock Test Paper - 2 (Anthropology Optional Paper- II): Questions | Anthropology Optional for UPSC

,

Important questions

,

study material

,

shortcuts and tricks

;