GPSC MAINS 2016 Paper 1

Points to Remember: Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a process. EIA aims to predict and mitigate environmental damage. Various methods exist for conducting EIAs, each with strengths and weaknesses. Effective EIA requires stakeholder participation and robust regulatory frameworks. Introduction: Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a systematic process used to identify, predict, evaluate, and mitigate the … Read more

Points to Remember: India’s road network: its extent, types (national highways, state highways, district roads, village roads). Socio-economic impact: facilitation of trade, commerce, agriculture, tourism, employment generation. Cultural impact: connectivity fostering cultural exchange, preservation of heritage sites. Challenges: maintenance, congestion, safety, environmental impact. Future prospects: expansion plans, technological advancements (smart roads), sustainable development. Introduction: India’s … Read more

Points to Remember: Definition and types of green energy. Salient features: sustainability, renewability, environmental friendliness. Indian government’s initiatives for green energy development. Challenges faced in green energy development in India. Future prospects and policy recommendations. Introduction: Green energy, also known as renewable energy, refers to energy generated from natural resources that are replenished at a … Read more

Points to Remember: Mauryan administration was highly centralized and efficient. Megasthenes’ Indica provides valuable, albeit sometimes debated, insights into Mauryan municipal administration. The system involved a complex hierarchy of officials and a focus on maintaining law and order, public works, and welfare. Limitations exist in relying solely on Megasthenes’ account due to potential biases and … Read more

Points to Remember: Internal conflicts and succession disputes Economic decline and financial mismanagement Rise of rival powers (British, regional powers) Changing military tactics and technology Social and religious tensions Introduction: The Maratha Empire, a powerful Hindu empire in India, rose to prominence in the 17th century under Shivaji Maharaj, carving out a kingdom from the … Read more

Points to Remember: Significant advancements in mathematics, astronomy, medicine, and metallurgy during the Gupta period (c. 320-550 CE). Contributions of key figures like Aryabhata, Varahamihira, and Charaka. Influence of Gupta advancements on subsequent scientific and technological progress in India and beyond. Limitations and gaps in the available historical evidence. Introduction: The Gupta Empire (c. 320-550 … Read more

Points to Remember: Globalization’s multifaceted impact on India: economic growth, social change, environmental concerns. Challenges: job displacement, inequality, cultural homogenization. Opportunities: increased trade, technological advancements, foreign investment. Need for balanced approach: harnessing benefits while mitigating negative consequences. Introduction: Globalization, the increasing interconnectedness of nations through trade, technology, and cultural exchange, has profoundly impacted India since … Read more

Points to Remember: Folk songs reflect the daily lives, beliefs, and social structures of Gujarati communities. Different regions and communities have unique folk song traditions. Themes include agriculture, love, social injustice, and religious beliefs. Analysis requires examining lyrics, melodies, and performance contexts. Scholarly research and fieldwork are crucial for accurate interpretation. Introduction: Gujarat, a state … Read more

Points to Remember: Social forestry’s impact on livelihoods (income generation, employment). Social forestry’s effect on environmental sustainability (biodiversity, carbon sequestration, soil erosion). Social forestry’s social impact (community empowerment, gender equality, conflict resolution). Challenges and limitations of social forestry initiatives. Policy recommendations for effective social forestry programs. Introduction: Social forestry, encompassing various community-based forestry initiatives, aims … Read more

Points to Remember: Sardar Patel’s role as Deputy Prime Minister in integrating princely states into India. The unique challenges posed by Hyderabad State’s size, population, and Nizam’s resistance. The “Police Action” and its ethical and strategic implications. The aftermath of the integration and its long-term consequences for Hyderabad. The constitutional and legal aspects of the … Read more