GS1 · Topic
Natural Resources
Distribution and use of minerals, energy, forests, soil and marine resources.
103 UPSC Mains GS1 questions on Natural Resources that toppers answered in test series, CSE 2016–2025, most answered first. Open one to see how toppers opened, built and closed it.
Forest fire pose a threat not only to the forest wealth but also to the entire regime of flora and fauna. What are the causes of forest fire? Discuss the ecological, economic and social impacts of forest fires.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2016
Natural Resources
Despite being rich in forest resources, why do tropical regions have limited growth of the lumbering industry in comparison to temperate regions?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
IndustryNatural Resources
Do you think the National River linking project is a panacea to the water crisis in India? Bring out the challenges in making it a success and suggest measures to overcome these challenges.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2022
WaterNatural Resources
Soil management in Northeast India is critical for a viable agriculture economy. In this context, discuss the problems of soils in Northeast India. Suggest some steps that can be taken to counter this problem.
12.5 marks · 200 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2016
Natural ResourcesTribals
Provide a brief account of steps taken by India for harnessing solar energy. What are the ecological and human costs associated with India's quest for solar energy expansion?
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2022
Natural ResourcesClimate Change
Sand is not only critical for economic development but also provides crucial ecosystem services. Elaborate. In this context, discuss the importance of sustainable sand mining in India.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2023
Natural Resources
Though electric vehicle is gaining popularity, availability of Lithium remains a bottle-neck. Discuss the availability of Lithium in India and in the world. Also, examine other challenges in promotion of electric mobility in India.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2023
Natural ResourcesIndustry
India has immense potential for solar energy despite regional variations. Analyse the factors responsible for this spatial variation and suggest measures to optimise solar-energy utilisation.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
Natural Resources
The groundwater potential of the Gangetic Valley is on a serious decline. Analyse how this decline may affect India's food security
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
WaterNatural Resources
What do you understand by the Arctic Paradox? Highlight the spatial distribution of mineral and energy resources in the Arctic region.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2023
Natural ResourcesHuman Geography
How do the Deccan and Chotanagpur plateaus differ in their physical characteristics and resource potential?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2023
Natural ResourcesGeomorphology
Recently United Nations declared 2023 as International year of millets to raise awareness and bring shift towards diversifying food plates.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2023
Natural ResourcesPoverty
Traditionally dominated by Rice and Wheat, the cropping pattern in India has seen marked diversification in recent times. Explain the factors responsible for such change and its significance for Indian agriculture.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Human GeographyNatural Resources
Explain the factors influencing the formation of soil and discuss the distribution of major soil types in India.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
Natural Resources
Examine the change in land use pattern in India since independence and its resultant impact on climate change.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2023
Climate ChangeHuman Geography
Inspite being one of the largest producer of fish, there is still considerable scope of improvement in the fishery sector. In light of the above statement, discuss the problems and prospects of Fishery industry in India with respect to both inland and marine fisheries.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2016
IndustryNatural Resources
Discuss the physical and ecological significance of the Eastern Ghats.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2023
HimalayasNatural Resources
What are Rare Earth Elements (REEs)? Discuss their global distribution.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
Natural Resources
Giving an account of the major lithium-producing countries, discuss the geo-political aspects of lithium production and its environmental implications.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
Natural ResourcesIndustry
Despite being destructive in nature, volcanoes are critical for the existence of human life on earth. Elucidate.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
Geophysical PhenomenaNatural Resources
Rare Earths Elements (REE) are considered as 'Vitamins of Modern Industry'. In this context, bring out the multi-dimensional implications of uneven distribution of REE in the world.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Natural ResourcesIndustry
What is soil amendment? Evaluate the benefits and concerns associated with it.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2023
Natural ResourcesGeomorphology
Describing the distribution of palm oil producing countries, indicate the major environmental issues faced by them.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
Natural ResourcesHuman Geography
Various geographical and anthropogenic factors have rendered Brahmaputra Valley susceptible to recurrent floods. Discuss the causes and suggest suitable measures of mitigation.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2017
FloodsWater
Recently the year 2023 was celebrated as the International Year of Millets, highlighting the importance of the nutriceals.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Natural ResourcesHuman Geography
Tropical regions are not only the most resource rich but also one of the most underdeveloped regions of the world. What are the factors responsible for this? How have some of the tropical countries turned their natural limitations to their advantage? Illustrate.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2016
Natural ResourcesHuman Geography
Identifying the characteristics of the grassland biome, mention the threats posed to Banni grasslands in India.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Human GeographyNatural Resources
The harsh environment of deserts conceals a wealth of resources that can be exploited for various human uses. Provide an overview of the mineral resources present in the Thar Desert and their potential impacts on regional development. (15M)
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Natural ResourcesHuman Geography
Discuss the economic and social costs associated with the transition from coal to green energy in India.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Natural ResourcesClimate Change
Soil and water use efficiency is the first step in bringing long term positive transformation in Indian agriculture. Elaborate.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2022
Natural ResourcesWater