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UPSC Essay Topics: Structure and Effective Writing

UPSC Essay Topics: Structure and Effective Writing Strategies

Crack the UPSC Essay Topics with insights on Paper, structure, and effective writing strategies. Exploring the exam format, marks distribution, and practice tips for success. Get a list of previously asked UPSC essay topics and expected themes for 2024. Boost your essay writing skills with valuable information on word limits, sections, and scoring.

UPSC Essay Topics: Structure and Effective Writing Strategies

Know about UPSC Essay Topics and Exam Structure

The Union Public Service Commission conducts Civil Services Exams every year which comprises three stages i.e Prelims, Mains, and the Interview. The Mains exam consists of multiple papers, with the first paper being the Essay paper. Every year UPSC mains essay papers have UPSC Essay Topics relevant to current scenarios. So, in this article, we will explore every aspect of the Essay paper and probable UPSC Essay Topics. Before going further let’s see the structure of the UPSC exam.

UPSC Essay Topics

Marks Distribution of Mains examination: The 250-Mark Weightage of UPSC Essay Topics

  • Each UPSC Essay Topics of the main UPSC exam has an equal weight of 250 marks. 
  • So, essay papers have a weight of 250 marks, and marks scored on the essay papers were considered for evaluation.

UPSC Essay Topics

Structure of UPSC Essay Topics: Sections, Paper, and Scoring

  • Marks Distribution- The UPSC CSE Essay Paper in Mains Exam consists of two sections A and B with four UPSC Essay Topics each of 125 marks and a total of 250 (125×2) marks. 
  • Word Limit- Candidates are given a choice to select a UPSC Essay Topics from each section and write about it in 1,000 to 2,000 words within the given time of three hours.

UPSC Essay Topics: Practice Strategies and Important Topics

  • Practicing for UPSC Essay Topics: Tackling Changing Topics with Practice
    • UPSC Essay topics of the UPSC mains exam change every year, so it becomes quite challenging for candidates to decide which UPSC Essay Topics they will face in the exam. It can be about things like how the economy is doing, how women can be stronger, art and culture, or how the media affects us. To make some predictions of UPSC Essay Topics from previous years question papers can be used. 
    • It is a good idea to look at the essay questions from previous years to get an idea of what might be asked. 
    • This will help candidates to practice writing essays and do well in the exam. With enough practice, candidates can excel in writing essays for the UPSC exam.
    • So here we will see the UPSC Essay Topics from the previous year’s question papers and will give a list of probable UPSC Essay Topics which can be asked in the coming exam.
            UPSC Essay Topics Previously Asked
Category UPSC Essay Topics
Polity/Geopolitical Issues/Global diversity
  • Whither Indian democracy? (1995)
  • What we have not learnt during fifty years of independence. (1997)
  • Why should we be proud of being Indians? (2000)
  • Need for transparency in public administration. (1996)
  • What have we gained from our democratic set-up? (2001)
  • How far has democracy in India delivered the goods? (2003)
  • National identity and patriotism. (2008)
  • In the context of Gandhiji’s views on the matter, explore, on an evolutionary scale, the terms ‘Swadhinata’, ‘Swaraj’ and ‘Dharmarajya’. Critically comment on their contemporary relevance to Indian democracy. (2012)
  • Is the colonial mentality hindering India’s success? (2013)
  • Dreams which should not let India sleep. (2015)
  • Management of Indian border disputes – a complex task. (2018)
Administration
  • Politics, bureaucracy and business – fatal triangle. (1994)
  • Politics without ethics is a disaster. (1995)
  • The VIP cult is a bane of Indian democracy. (1996)
  • Need for transparency in public administration. (1996)
  • The country’s need for a better disaster management system. (2000)
  • How should a civil servant conduct himself? (2003)
Economy
  • Resource management in the Indian context. (1999)
  • GDP (Gross Domestic Product) along with GDH (Gross Domestic Happiness) would be the right indices for judging the wellbeing of a country. (2013)
  • Was it the policy paralysis or the paralysis of implementation which slowed the growth of our country? (2014)
  • Crisis faced in India – moral or economic. (2015)
  • Near jobless growth in India: An anomaly or an outcome of economic reforms. (2016)
  • Innovation is the key determinant of economic growth and social welfare. (2016)
  • Impact of the new economic measures on fiscal ties between the union and states in India. (2017)
  • Multinational corporations – saviours or saboteurs. (1994)
  • Globalization would finish small-scale industries in India. (2006)
  • BPO boom in India. (2007)
  • Special economic zone: boon or bane? (2008)
  • Are our traditional handicrafts doomed to a slow death? (2009)
  • Is the criticism that the Public-Private-Partnership (PPP) model for development is more of a bane than a boon in the Indian context, justified? (2012)
  • Tourism: Can this be the next big thing for India? (2014)
Federalism
  • The language problem in India: its past, present and prospects. (1998)
  • Water resources should be under the control of the central government. (2004)
  • Evaluation of the panchayati raj system in India from the point of view of eradication of power to people. (2007)
  • Is autonomy the best answer to combat balkanization? (2007)
  • Creation of smaller states and the consequent administrative, economic and developmental implication. (2011)
  • Water disputes between States in federal India. (2016)
Society and Social Justice
  • The Indian society at the crossroads. (1994)
  • New cults and godmen: a threat to traditional religion. (1996)
  • The composite culture of India. (1998)
  • Youth culture today. (1999)
  • Modernism and our traditional socio-ethical values. (2000)
  • As civilization advances, culture declines. (2003)
  • Best for an individual is not necessarily best for society. (2019)
  • Neglect of primary health care and education in India are reasons for its backwardness. (2019)
  • Biased media is a real threat to Indian democracy. (2019)
  • Ships don’t sink because of water around them, ships sink because of water that gets into them. (2020)
  • There can be no social justice without economic prosperity but economic prosperity without social justice is meaningless. (2020)
  • Patriarchy is the least noticed yet the most significant structure of social inequality. (2020)
  • The process of self-discovery has now been technologically outsourced. (2021)
  • A society that has more justice is a society that needs less charity. (2023)
Media, Culture, and Freedom in Indian Society
  • Misinterpretation and misuse of freedom in India. (1998)
  • Mass media and cultural invasion. (1999)
  • Responsibility of media in a democracy. (2002)
  • How has satellite television brought about cultural change in Indian mindsets? (2007)
  • Role of media in good governance. (2008)
  • Does Indian cinema shape our popular culture or merely reflect it? (2011)
  • Is sting operation an invasion on privacy? (2014)
  • South Asian societies are woven not around the state, but around their plural cultures and plural identities. (2019)
  • Culture is what we are, civilization is what we have. (2020)
Education 
  • Restructuring of the Indian education system. (1995)
  • Literacy is growing very fast, but there is no corresponding growth in education. (1996)
  • Irrelevance of the classroom. (2001)
  • Privatization of higher education in India. (2002)
  • Modern technological education and human values. (2002)
  • “Education for all” campaign in India: myth or reality. (2006)
  • Independent thinking should be encouraged right from childhood. (2007)
  • Is an egalitarian society possible by educating the masses? (2008)
  • Credit – based higher education system – status, opportunities and challenges. (2011)
  • Is the growing level of competition good for the youth? (2014)
  • Are standardized tests a good measure of academic ability or progress? (2014)
  • Education without values, as useful as it is, seems rather to make a man a more clever devil. (2015)
  • Destiny of a nation is shaped in its classrooms. (2017)
  • Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in school (2023)
Women and Gender
  • The new emerging women power: the ground realities. (1995)
  • Greater political power alone will not improve women’s plight. (1997)
  • Woman is God’s best creation. (1998)
  • Women empowerment: challenges and prospects. (1999)
  • Empowerment alone cannot help our women. (2001)
  • Whether women’s emancipation? (2004)
  • The hand that rocks the cradle. (2005)
  • If women ruled the world. (2005)
  • Women’s reservation bill would usher in empowerment for women in India. (2006)
  • Managing work and home – is the Indian working woman getting a fair deal? (2012)
  • If development is not engendered, it is endangered. (2016)
  • Fulfillment of ‘new woman’ in India is a myth. (2017)
  • Hand that rocks the cradle rules the world. (2021)
  • Girls are weighed down by restrictions, boys with demands – two equally harmful disciplines. (2023)
Quotes based UPSC UPSC Essay Topics/Philosophical Statements
  • Youth is a blunder, manhood a struggle, old age a regret. (1994)
  • Useless life is an early death. (1994)
  • Disinterested intellectual curiosity is the lifeblood of civilisation. (1995)
  • When money speaks, the truth is silent. (1995)
  • Our deeds determine us, as much as we determine our deeds. (1995)
  • Truth is lived, not taught. (1996)
  • True religion cannot be misused. (1997)
  • The paths of glory lead but to the grave. (2002)
  • If youth knew, if age could. (2002)
  • There is nothing either good or bad but thinking makes it so. (2003)
  • Be the change you want to see in others. (2013)
  • With greater power comes greater responsibility. (2014)
  • Words are sharper than the two-edged sword. (2014)
  • Lending hands to someone is better than giving a dole. (2015)
  • “The past’ is a permanent dimension of human consciousness and values. (2018)
  • Reality does not conform to the ideal, but confirms it. (2018)
  • Attitude makes habit, habit makes character and character makes a man. (2007)
  • Discipline means success, anarchy means ruin. (2008)
  • Character of an institution is reflected in its leader. (2015)
  • Need brings greed, if greed increases it spoils breed. (2016)
  • Joy is the simplest form of gratitude. (2017)
  • A good life is one inspired by love and guided by knowledge. (2018)
  • A people that values its privileges above its principles loses both. (2018)
  • A people that values its privileges above its principles loses both. (2018)
  • Courage to accept and dedication to improve are two keys to success. (2019)
  • Wisdom finds truth. (2019)
  • Courage to accept and dedication to improve are two keys to success. (2019)
  • Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. (2020)
  • Mindful manifesto is the catalyst to a tranquil self. (2020)
  • Your perception of me is a reflection of you; my reaction to you is an awareness of me. (2021)
  • Philosophy of wantlessness is Utopian, while materialism is a chimera. (2021)
  • The real is rational and the rational is real. (2021)
  •  Not all who wander are lost. (2023)
  • Poets are the unacknowledged legislators of the world (2022)
  • Thinking is like a game; it does not begin unless there is an opposite team. (2022)
  • You cannot step twice in the same river. (2022)
  • A ship in harbor is safe, but that is not what a ship is for. (2022)
Science and Technology
  • The modern doctor and his patients. (1997)
  • Value-based science and education. (1999)
  • The march of science and the erosion of human values. (2001)
  • Spirituality and scientific temper. (2003)
  • The lure of space. (2004)
  • Science and Mysticism: Are they compatible? (2012)
  • Science and technology is the panacea for the growth and security of the nation. (2013)
  • Technology cannot replace manpower. (2015)
  • Alternative technologies for a climate change resilient India. (2018)
  • Rise of Artificial Intelligence: the threat of jobless future or better job opportunities through reskilling and upskilling. (2019)
  • Technology as the silent factor in international relations. (2020)
Innovation/self awareness
  • What is research, but a blind date with knowledge!(2021)
  • History repeats itself, first as a tragedy, second as a farce. (2021)
  • There are better practices to ‘best practices. (2021)
  • Just because you have a choice, it does not mean that any of them has to be right. (2022)
  • The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining. (2022)
  • A smile is the chosen vehicle for all ambiguities. (2022)
  • Mathematics is the music of reason (2023)
  • Inspiration for creativity springs from the effort to look for the magical in the mundane. (2023)
  • Visionary decision-making happens at the intersection of intuition and logic. (2023)
  • History is a series of victories won by the scientific man over the romantic man.

 

Expected UPSC Essay Topics for Paper 2024: UPSC Essay Topics and Writing Skills

For better practice we are putting some expected questions on which candidates can write an UPSC Essay Topics to brush up their essay writing skill.

Economy
  • Sustainable Development: Balancing economic growth with environmental conservation.
  • Digital Economy: Opportunities and challenges in the era of digitization.
  • We don’t have to sacrifice a Strong Economy for a Healthy Environment.
  • Digital Economy: A leveller or a source of Economic Inequality?
  • Innovation is the key determinant of social welfare and economic growth.
  • Labour Reforms in India and its Role in Economic Growth.
  • Agrarian Crisis: Measures to revitalize the agricultural sector.
  • Financial Inclusion: Expanding access to financial services in rural areas.
  • Industry 4.0 and Job Displacement: Preparing for the future of work.
  • Green Economy: Strategies for sustainable development.
  • Economic Reforms and Inclusive Growth: Striking a balance.
Social Issues
  • Women’s Empowerment: Progress, challenges, and future prospects.
  • Education for Sustainable Development: Nurturing responsible citizens.
  • Inclusivity and Plurality are the hallmarks of a Peaceful Society.
  • A Gender-sensitive Indian Society is a prerequisite for Women and Child Empowerment.
  • Urbanization and Social Change: Balancing development and inclusivity.
  • Mental Health Awareness: Bridging gaps in healthcare.
  • Tribal Rights and Development: Addressing disparities and preserving cultures.
  • The weaker sections of Indian Society – are their Rights and Access to Justice getting Better?
Governance and Policies
  • E-Governance: Transforming public service delivery.
  • The Role of Politics in Development.
  • Should Youth in India Consider Politics as a Career?
  • Electoral Reforms for Strengthening Democracy: Enhancing transparency.
  • People should not be afraid of their Government. The Government should be afraid of its people.
  • Government Surveillance – Good or Bad?
  • Judicial Reforms: Improving efficiency and access to justice.
  • Public Health Policies: Strengthening healthcare infrastructure.
  • Decentralization and Local Governance: Empowering grassroots institutions.
  • Art, Freedom and Creativity will change society faster than politics.
  • The politics of Identity is the Politics of the Weak.
Environmental Issues
  • Climate Change Adaptation: Resilience strategies for vulnerable regions.
  • Wildlife Conservation: Balancing conservation and development.
  • Water Management in India: Sustainable use and conservation.
  • Air Pollution Control: Strategies for cleaner air in urban areas.
  • Plastic Waste Management: Reducing environmental impact.
International Relations
  • India’s Role in Global Governance: Opportunities and challenges.
  • Border Disputes and Diplomacy: Seeking peaceful resolutions.
  • Refugee Crisis and Global Responsibility: Humanitarian considerations.
  • India’s Neighborhood Policy: Strengthening regional ties.
  • United Nations Reforms: Addressing the changing global landscape.
  • Soft Power Diplomacy: Leveraging culture, education, and technology.
  • Cyber Diplomacy: Managing international relations in the digital realm.
Ethics and Values
  • Role of Integrity in Public Service: Upholding ethical standards.
  • Corporate Ethics and Social Responsibility: Balancing profit and impact.
  • Privacy in the Digital Age: Safeguarding individual rights.
  • Ethical Considerations in Artificial Intelligence: Balancing progress and responsibility.
  • Media Ethics in the Age of Misinformation: Nurturing responsible journalism.
  • Technological Ethics in Medicine: Balancing innovation with ethical considerations.
Science and Technology
  • Ethical Implications of Genetic Engineering: Balancing progress with ethical concerns.
  • Space Exploration and National Development: The role of space programs.
  • Future of Artificial Intelligence: Challenges and opportunities.
  • Cybersecurity Threats: Safeguarding national interests in the digital age.
  • Technological Solutions for Environmental Conservation: Innovations in sustainability.
Historical and Cultural Issues
  • Impact of Colonial Rule on India’s Cultural Heritage: Preserving identity.
  • Revival of Ancient Crafts: Fostering traditional art and craftsmanship.
  • Historical Perspectives on Social Justice Movements: Lessons for the present.
  • Cultural Diplomacy: Leveraging culture for international relations.
  • Cultural Appropriation vs. Cultural Appreciation: Navigating complexities.
Philosophical and Psychological Themes
  • Morality in Public Policy: Ethical considerations in policy making.
  • Existential Crisis in Modern Society: Coping with meaninglessness.
  • The Role of Empathy in Governance: Fostering compassion in leadership.
  • Philosophy of Education: Shaping holistic and ethical education systems.
Security and Defense
  • Nuclear Disarmament: India’s stance and global implications.
  • Cyber Warfare and National Security: Preparing for digital threats.
  • Role of Military Alliances in Global Security: Navigating geopolitical dynamics.
  • Counterterrorism Strategies: International cooperation and domestic measures.
  • Ethical Considerations in Warfare: Balancing security with humanitarian concerns.
Social Media and Society
  • Social Media and Political Activism: The power and limitations.
  • Online Privacy Concerns: Balancing security and individual rights.
  • Influence of Social Media on Youth: Impact on attitudes and behavior.
  • Social Media and Mental Health: Exploring the linkages.
  • Deepfakes and Misinformation: Challenges to digital trust.
  • Cybersecurity Challenges in the Age of Social Media: Protecting digital infrastructure.
  • Social Media and Political Polarization: Mitigating the impact on democratic discourse.
  • Online Hate Speech and Freedom of Expression: Striking a balance.
  • Social Media Influencers and Consumer Culture: Impact on societal values.
  • Digital Activism: Effectiveness and limitations in promoting social change.
Human Rights and Social Justice
  • Right to Internet Access: Bridging the digital divide.
  • Combating Human Trafficking: Strategies for prevention and intervention.
  • Disability Rights and Inclusion: Creating accessible societies.
  • Reproductive Rights: Ensuring women’s health and autonomy.
  • Environmental Justice: Addressing the disproportionate impact on vulnerable communities.
  • Indigenous Rights: Safeguarding the rights and cultures of indigenous communities.
  • Prison Reform: Addressing issues of overcrowding and rehabilitation.
  • The Right to Water: Ensuring access to clean and safe drinking water.
  • LGBTQ+ Rights in the Workplace: Promoting inclusivity and non-discrimination.
  • Reparations for Historical Injustices: Examining the case for reparative measures.

 

Must Read
NCERT Notes For UPSC UPSC Daily Current Affairs
UPSC Blogs UPSC Daily Editorials
Daily Current Affairs Quiz Daily Main Answer Writing
UPSC Mains Previous Year Papers UPSC Test Series 2024

 

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do UPSC Essay Topics get repeated?

That’s correct. While UPSC may repeat UPSC Essay Topics from previous years, they are likely to ask a different question with the exact same wording. Instead, they may tweak the language or focus of the question slightly to test a candidate’s understanding and analytical skills. Moreover, it is also true that certain UPSC Essay Topics, such as history, economics, and Indian polity, tend to be asked more frequently than others

How many essay questions are asked in the UPSC essay paper?

The UPSC Essay Paper consists of two sections, each containing four to five UPSC Essay Topics. Candidates need to choose one UPSC Essay Topics from each section and write an essay of 1000 to 1200 words on each UPSC Essay Topics. Moreover, each essay is worth 125 marks, and the total mark for the UPSC Essay Paper is 250.

What if the Candidate exceeds the word limit of the essay paper?

In the UPSC Mains examination, candidates are expected to adhere to the specified word limit for each essay question.

How can I write a good essay for UPSC?

Keeping notes and staying updated with current affairs is crucial in developing a deep understanding of various UPSC Essay Topics.

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Quick Revise Now !
AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD SOON
UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध
Quick Revise Now !
UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध

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