AIR 34 · CSE 2025 · GS1 · 60 pages

Nancy Singh: GS1 answer copy

20 answers by Nancy Singh, as written in the test. Each question opens a page with how other toppers answered it.

The questions

  1. Q1Pillars are not merely architectural marvels, but also serve as crucial sources of ancient Indian history. Discuss.10 marks
  2. Q2To what extent did early economic nationalists like Dadabhai Naoroji shape the intellectual foundations of the Indian freedom movement?10 marks
  3. Q3How did the Indian national movement influence freedom movements across the world?10 marks
  4. Q4How does the movement of continental plates help explain the spatial distribution of earthquakes in specific regions of the world? Illustrate with examples.10 marks
  5. Q5River interlinking is seen as a means to reduce regional water stress. Discuss its advantages and examine the possible environmental and social implications.10 marks
  6. Q6Discuss the localisation factors for the textile industry in India and examine its economic significance.10 marks
  7. Q7What are loess deposits, and why do they constitute some of the most agriculturally productive regions of the world?10 marks
  8. Q8Screen-based education has improved accessibility but also created new behavioural and social challenges for children. Discuss.10 marks
  9. Q9Why are protectionist and xenophobic trends against Indians rising in the West, despite the global embrace of Indian culture and soft power?10 marks
  10. Q10The caste system in India has adapted to the forces of modernisation, urbanisation, and economic liberalisation. Illustrate with examples.10 marks
  11. Q11Throw light on the socio-economic and religious life of the Harappan people with reference to archaeological evidence.15 marks
  12. Q12Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Jawaharlal Nehru differed in their approach to nation-building, yet their shared vision was instrumental in shaping modern India. Discuss.15 marks
  13. Q13The Swadeshi Movement marked a significant shift in India's freedom struggle from passive resistance to active mass mobilisation. In this context, discuss the strategies, social impact, and limitations of the movement.15 marks
  14. Q14The Western Ghats and the Northeastern Hills receive some of the highest rainfall during the southwest monsoon in India. Discuss the mechanisms responsible for heavy rainfall in these regions and analyse the monsoon's influence on human life in these regions.15 marks
  15. Q15Differentiate between forest cover, tree cover, and green cover. How do forest ecosystems in India contribute to climate resilience and carbon sequestration?15 marks
  16. Q16Account for the salinity variations in the world's oceans. How does this variation impact ocean circulation and marine ecosystems?15 marks
  17. Q17How does the polar cryosphere play a pivotal role in regulating the Earth's climate system? Also, enumerate the key factors responsible for rapid warming in the Arctic.15 marks
  18. Q18"Religious pluralism and secularism are integral to India's social fabric, but their coexistence requires constant negotiation." Examine.15 marks
  19. Q19Discuss the intersection of class, gender, and geography in determining women's access to opportunities in the Indian service sector.15 marks
  20. Q20"Despite a strong continuity in traditional family values, Indian society is witnessing rising trends of delayed marriage, increasing divorce rates, and family disruption." Discuss the socio-economic and cultural factors contributing to this shift.15 marks

The answers

Question 1 · 10 marks · 154 words written

Pillars are not merely architectural marvels, but also serve as crucial sources of ancient Indian history. Discuss.

Opening

Pillars are one of the sources of information about our ancient culture, the social life which provides insights of the society prevalent. Sources of ancient Indian history - Pillars

Body · points and prose

rvels

  • (1) Excellent craftsmanship
    • Eg: Polished nature of Sarnath pillar
  • (2) Technological clout
    • Eg: Iron pillar of Mehrauli is not yet rusted

Sources of ancient Indian history - Pillars

(1) Give information about the kings and their dynasty.

(2) Pillar inscription describes about the works being done by the king. Eg: Ashokan pillar describes about Ashoka's promotion of peace, women empowerment.

(3) Cultural exchange & cultural beliefs

(4) Pillars provides insights about the religion being followed. Eg: Heliodorous pillar at Besnagar is dedicated to Vishnu.

(4) Ethics & values: Sarnath pillar which has wheel → reflective of wheel of law is changing.

(5) Praise about kings / their victories

Close · a framework

Pillars describe about the kings & their battles. Eg: Prayag Prashasti → Allahabad pillar talks about Samudragupta considered as Napoleon of India.

Hence, pillars are truly architectural marvels which needs to be preserved to have good idea about India's rich culture & heritage (Article 49).