Saturday, 31 January 2026

 

🟦 Geography Optional – MAINS

Paper–II : Indian Geography

Page – 27 | PYQs with Model Answers (Part–I)

UPSC / UPPSC | Shaktimatha 369 Learning


PYQ 1. “Indian monsoon is the key determinant of agricultural productivity.” Examine its spatial and temporal variability. (15 Marks)

Model Answer

The Indian monsoon is a complex atmospheric phenomenon that determines the success of agriculture, water availability and food security. Its spatial and temporal variability has significant regional implications.

  • Early onset benefits western coast and northeast India
  • Erratic rainfall affects rainfed regions of Deccan plateau
  • Break monsoon causes drought-like conditions
  • Excess rainfall leads to floods in river basins

Thus, monsoon variability directly impacts cropping patterns, irrigation demand and rural livelihoods. Climate change has further increased its unpredictability.

Map to draw: India – Monsoon rainfall zones


PYQ 2. Analyse the causes of regional disparities in industrial development in India. (15 Marks)

Model Answer

Industrial development in India is spatially uneven, with concentration in western and southern regions. Several geographical and economic factors explain this pattern.

  • Availability of minerals and power
  • Transport and port infrastructure
  • Urban markets and skilled labour
  • Historical colonial investment patterns

Backward regions continue to suffer due to poor connectivity, governance issues and limited private investment. Balanced regional planning remains a challenge.

Map to draw: Major industrial regions of India


PYQ 3. Discuss the role of irrigation in transforming Indian agriculture. Highlight associated environmental concerns. (20 Marks)

Model Answer

Irrigation has transformed Indian agriculture by reducing dependence on monsoon rainfall and enabling multiple cropping.

  • Green Revolution success in north-west India
  • Expansion of high-yield varieties
  • Increase in cropping intensity

However, excessive irrigation has resulted in:

  • Groundwater depletion
  • Waterlogging and salinity
  • Regional ecological imbalance

Sustainable irrigation practices are essential for long-term agricultural security.

Map to draw: Irrigation intensity in India


Examiner’s Insight:
✔ Directly answer the question asked
✔ Integrate maps in PYQs
✔ Use regional examples
✔ Avoid generic GS-style answers

End of MAINS – Paper II | Page 27
Shaktimatha 369 Learning

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