November 20 – Mini Mock Test: 2025 | UPSC Daily Answer Writing Practice PDF Download

General Instructions

• Time Management: Allocate 7 minutes for 150-word questions (200-word answers), 10 minutes for 250-word questions (300-word answers), and 12-15 minutes for the Ethics case study.
• Word Limit: Stick to 150-word limit and 250-word limit to avoid penalties.
• Structure: Use Introduction (1-2 sentences), Body (3-4 points), and Conclusion (1-2 sentences). Address case study sub-questions clearly.
• Relevance: Answer the question directly, using specific data for current affairs.

Q1. (History)
“The rock-cut architecture of the Rashtrakutas exemplifies a fusion of indigenous and external influences, reflecting the socio-religious dynamics of the era.” Discuss. (150 words)

Q2. (Economy)
Assess the implications of the ongoing US-China trade tensions on India's economic diplomacy, particularly in the context of supply chain diversification post-2025 global disruptions. Suggest measures for India to leverage these opportunities while safeguarding its strategic autonomy. (250 words)

Q3. (Environment)
“India's biodiversity hotspots are under severe threat from climate change and anthropogenic activities.” Examine this statement with reference to the Western Ghats and the Sundarbans, highlighting conservation strategies adopted in 2025. (150 words)

Q4. (Ethics Case Study)
Priya is a senior IPS officer serving as Superintendent of Police in a metropolitan city. The city has seen a rise in cybercrimes, including deepfake scams targeting women and online frauds affecting vulnerable groups. As part of a national initiative, her department receives funding for advanced digital forensics labs and awareness campaigns. During an internal audit, Priya uncovers that a significant portion of these funds has been siphoned off by a nexus of junior officers and private contractors to procure overpriced, substandard equipment. The contractors have ties to influential politicians, and the officers justify the diversion by claiming it ensures "smooth operations" through political favors, which could lead to more funding in the future. Priya faces pressure from her superiors to overlook the issue, warning that exposing it could lead to departmental unrest, her transfer, or even threats to her safety. Meanwhile, local NGOs report increasing cases of cyber victimization among low-income families, exacerbated by the lack of proper tools and training in the police force. If she ignores the corruption, public trust in law enforcement erodes further; if she acts, it might disrupt ongoing investigations and invite retaliation. 
Questions:
(a) Identify the key ethical dilemmas confronting Priya in this scenario. 
(b) As a mentor to aspiring police officers, what ethical values and decision-making frameworks would you recommend for navigating corruption in high-stakes environments? 
(c) Outline a balanced course of action for Priya, integrating legal obligations with practical considerations for long-term systemic reform.

Q5. (Ethics)
“The ethical foundation of democracy lies in the impartiality of its institutions.” Elucidate this in the context of electoral reforms in India.