Mains GS1 Sample Questions

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1/8/20252 min read

  • Seismic Activity in the Himalayas
    Question: Compare the seismic activity in the Himalayan region with other major earthquake-prone zones globally. How does the collision of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates contribute to the frequency of seismic events, and what implications does this have for India’s preparedness for future natural disasters?

  • Economic and Environmental Implications of Earthquakes
    Question: Analyze the economic impact of the 2025 earthquake in Tibet, considering the damage to infrastructure and the long-term consequences for the region’s hydroelectric projects. How does this align with India’s ongoing concerns about water resources, particularly in the Brahmaputra river basin?

  • Geological Significance and Hydroelectric Projects
    Question: Examine the role of the Lhasa terrane in understanding seismic risks and its relevance to India's water security, especially considering the hydroelectric projects on the Yarlung Tsangpo River. How does this connect with India's concerns regarding upstream water control?

  • Himalayan Seismic Zones and their Historical Context
    Question: The 2025 earthquake in Tibet serves as a reminder of the seismic risks in the Himalayas. Compare this event with historical earthquakes in the region, such as the 1897 Assam earthquake, in terms of their magnitude, impact on infrastructure, and their implications for modern Indian policymaking on disaster management.

  • Tectonic Plate Movements and National Security
    Question: Discuss the strategic significance of the ongoing collision between the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates, especially in light of the recent earthquake in Tibet. How does this influence India’s national security and infrastructural resilience, particularly in the context of border areas like Arunachal Pradesh?

  • Environmental Hazards and the Third Pole
    Question: The Himalayan region is often referred to as the "third pole" due to its freshwater reserves. Analyze the environmental hazards posed by seismic activity in this region, focusing on the potential impacts on India’s water resources, agriculture, and overall climate security.

  • Comparison with Other Modern Seismic Events
    Question: Compare the recent earthquake in Tibet with other major seismic events, such as the 2011 Tohoku earthquake in Japan or the 2001 Gujarat earthquake in India, in terms of their immediate and long-term consequences on regional infrastructure, economy, and societal impact.

  • Indian Disaster Preparedness: Lessons from the Himalayan Region
    Question: Given the increasing frequency of seismic events in the Himalayan region, assess India’s disaster preparedness, including its policies on early warning systems and infrastructure resilience. How can India learn from past earthquakes, such as the 2001 Gujarat earthquake, to mitigate future risks?

  • Cultural and Spiritual Implications of Seismic Disasters
    Question: Analyze the cultural and spiritual significance of areas like Tingry County in Tibet, which is affected by seismic activity. Compare this with how natural disasters have impacted other culturally significant regions in India, such as the 2004 tsunami in Tamil Nadu.

  • Indian Policy on International Environmental and Disaster Cooperation
    Question: Examine India’s role in addressing cross-border environmental and disaster risks, such as the impact of earthquakes in Tibet. How can India collaborate with neighboring countries like China and Nepal to mitigate the effects of natural disasters and manage shared water resources?

worm's-eye view photography of concrete building
worm's-eye view photography of concrete building

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