UPSC Mains · Essay · Topic

Leadership and character

14 UPSC Mains Essay questions on Leadership and character, 2013 to 2026, newest first, as UPSC set them.

  1. 2026 Topic B7Shelving hard decisions is the least ethical course.125 marks · 1200 words
  2. 2026 Topic B8A good leader is one who follows the followers.125 marks · 1200 words
  3. 2025 Topic A4Best lessons are learnt through bitter experiences.125 marks · 1200 words
  4. 2025 Topic B5Muddy water is best cleared by leaving it alone.125 marks · 1200 words
  5. 2024 Topic B6Nearly all men can stand adversity, but to test the character, give him power.125 marks · 1200 words
  6. 2024 Topic B8The cost of being wrong is less than the cost of doing nothing.125 marks · 1200 words
  7. 2023 Topic A2Visionary decision-making happens at the intersection of intuition and logic.125 marks · 1200 words
  8. 2022 Topic A4A ship in harbour is safe, but that is not what ship is for125 marks · 1200 words
  9. 2020 Topic A3Ships do not sink because of water around them, ships sink because of water that gets into them125 marks · 1200 words
  10. 2019 Topic A4Courage to accept and dedication to improve are two keys to success125 marks · 1200 words
  11. 2015 Topic A2Quick but steady wins the race.125 marks · 1200 words
  12. 2015 Topic A3Character of an institution is reflected in its leader.125 marks · 1200 words
  13. 2014 Topic A1With greater power comes greater responsibility.125 marks · 1200 words
  14. 2013 Q1*Be the change you want to see in others* — Gandhiji.250 marks · 2500 words

Other Essay topics

Art, literature and mediaEconomy, development and workEducation and youthEnvironment and sustainabilityEthics and valuesHealth and wellbeingHistory and civilisationIndia and the worldPhilosophy and the human conditionPolity, democracy and governanceScience, technology and the futureSociety and cultureWomen and gender

Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Main) Examination question papers, upsc.gov.in. Topics are by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.