UPSC Mains GS2 Previous Year Questions with Model Answers

India-Africa digital partnership is achieving mutual respect, co-development and long-term institutional partnerships. Elaborate.

“In contemporary development models, decision-making and problem-solving responsibilities are not located close to the source of information and execution, defeating the objectives of development.” Critically evaluate.

"The reform process in the United Nations remains unresolved, because of the delicate imbalance of East and West and entanglement of the USA vs. Russo-Chinese alliance.' Examine and critically evaluate the East-West policy confrontations in this regard.

The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights has to address the chal-lenges faced by children in the digital era. Examine the existing policies and suggest measures the Commission can initiate to tackle the issue.

Compare and contrast the President's power to pardon in India and in the USA. Are there any limits to it in both the countries? What are 'preemptive pardons'?

Discuss the nature of Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly after the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization Act, 2019. Briefly describe the powers and functions of the Assembly of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

"Energy security constitutes the dominant kingpin of India's foreign policy, and is linked with India's overarching influence in Middle Eastern countries." How would you integrate energy security with India's foreign policy trajectories in the coming years?

What are environmental pressure groups? Discuss their role in raising awareness, influencing policies and advocating for environmental protection in India.