Science and Technology UPSC Topic Wise Mains Previous Year Questions (1979-2023)

1. POLICY INITIATIVES AND INSTITUTIONS

Comment critically on the impact that modern Science and Technology have made on the attitudes, lifestyles, social structures, and economic well-being of the people in the rural areas in India.1979
What is India’s position in the world in respect of Scientific and Technological manpower? 1979
What is the role of Scientific and Technological Research in our Economic Development Process? What steps are necessary to adapt the nature, structure, content, and result of such research to meet the growing and complex needs of our increasing agricultural and industrial production? Comment briefly on the adequacy and relevance of technology developed in Western countries for adoption by India. Is it necessary or feasible for India to achieve scientific and technological self-sufficiency? (500 words). 1980
What are the main objectives of Governments’ science policy? What steps are being taken for the optimal utilization of scientific manpower and improvement in the quality of science and technical education? 1981
Comment upon the main aims outlined by the Technology Policy Statement in 1983. 1984
In the context of the challenges to be faced in the 21st century, it is generally felt that there is an urgent need to reorient science education and scientific research in the country. Identify the important areas that need reorientation and suggest the steps you consider necessary for the purpose. 1985
The government of India has constantly laid emphasis on the development of Science and Technology as major instruments for achieving national goals of self-reliance and development.
Name the departments which were set up during the sixth plan period to deal with newly emerging areas. What significant achievements have been recorded as a result of this policy?1986
Trace the growth of Science museums in India. Examine their role in promoting science awareness and the spirit of scientific temper among the common people. (250 words). 1988
What are the aims of the New Technology Policy? What steps are being taken to improve the standards of technical education? 1988
The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research has established a number of laboratories for interacting with industry and the development of indigenous technologies. Citing specific examples, point out the significant achievements of CSIR in the last decade. (250 words) 1989
Briefly describe the Karimnagar experiment for the application of Science and Technology for regional development. 1990
What is SQUID? Which of the CSIR laboratories are working on it? 1991
What are the fundamental constants and their use in the measurement system? INSPIRE programme of the Department of Science and Technology. Comment. 2011

2. DEFENCE

What is the Territorial Army? For what reasons has it been constituted? Who is eligible to join it? What incentives are given to the members of the Territorial Army? (100 words) 1981
Name the main combat aircraft which are in active service in the Indian Air Force. Which of them is obsolete or obsolescent? What have been the recent acquisitions of combat aircraft for use in our Air Force? What options are open to the Indian Air Force to match the F-16 Aircraft, which is being acquired by Pakistan? 1981
Answer the following: (i) Where are Vijayanta Tanks produced in India? (ii) In which Defence Undertaking are the “antitank” missiles produced? (iii) Which aircraft is proposed to be inducted into the Indian Air Force to match F-16 of the Pakistan Air Force? (iv) Where will submarines be constructed in India? (v) In which defence institution do the Senior Defence and Civilian Officers receive training in the higher methods of management and coordination during peace and war? 1982
Give the names of three missiles developed by India under the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme. Briefly mention their capabilities. 1989
What is meant by a “stealth aircraft”? Mention two “stealth technological techniques” used in such an aircraft. 1989
What are binary chemical weapons? 1991
What are the salient features of India’s missile development programme. 1992
Give an account of the achievements of Indian scientists in technology development. 1993
What do the following stand for:
ANURAG (ii) HVDC (iii) GMRT . 1993
What is VIKAS engine? What is it being used for?1993
What was the controversy about ‘Prithvi? 1997
Why is Agni Project important for India? 1997
How does the development of Pinaka benefit India? 1998
What is a cryogenic engine? Discuss its significance in India’s space programme. 2001
what is Stealth Technology? (125 words). 2007
Discuss the missile technology initiatives undertaken by  (150 words) 2007
Write about India’s L.C.A. (Tejas). 2008
Write brief note on Nuclear Submarine Arihant. 2009
Write brief note in about 30 words: The P- 8A Poseidon’. 2009
Write brief note on Agni – V. 2010
What is “Predator’ drones and why have news recently? 2010
The Keyed K – 10 aero – engine. Comment. 2011
F-22 ‘Raptor’ aircraft. Comment. 2011
The terms ‘Hot Pursuit’ and Surgical Strikes’ are often used in connection with armed action against terrorist attacks. Discuss the strategic impact of such actions. 2016
How is S-400 air defence system technically superior to any other system presently available in the world? (150 words) 2021

3. SPACE

State as to what the APOLLO -17 stands for. 1979
Give a brief review of India’s accomplishments in the field of space science and technology. 1979
What will be your weight when orbiting in a space satellite? 1980
What are the significant achievements of Indian scientists in the context of Space Research? How will space technology be useful for weather prediction, telecommunications and identification of natural resources? (400 words) 1981
What are RS-I and SLV-3? 1982
There are many artificial satellites circling the earth. Describe the various uses of these artificial satellites. Name the satellites put in orbit by India. 1983
What are the advantages to the nation in sending our men into space? It is sometimes argued that the problem of tackling poverty will get sidetracked if we indulge in such luxurious experiments. What are your views in this regard? (150 words) 1984
Where is Balasinor? Why has it come into the news recently? 1984
What is a spacecraft? Name the Indian who undertook space flight. 1984
What is ‘Chandrasekhar limit? 1985
Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II of Jaipur has built five observations for astronomical observations. Two of these are situated in Delhi and Jaipur. Where are the other three located? 1987
Write brief notes on: (i) ASLV-D 2 (ii) INSAT-IC. (30 words) 1988
Trace the progress of India’s Space Research Programmes.  What are its significant achievements? 1991
Discuss briefly the importance of the cryogenic engine for India’s space programme. 1992
What is a leap second? 1992
What is the advantage of putting a satellite in a geosynchronous orbit? 1992
What is remote sensing? Describe the status of remote sensing in India.1993
What are jet streams? 1993
What is Talsur? 1994
What is ‘Shoemaker-Levy 9’? Why was it in the news recently? 1994
What is PSLV? Describe its significance for India’s space programme. 1995
What are VSATs? What are they used for? 1995
Describe how India’s space programme has helped in its socio-economic development. 1996
Why does a lunar eclipse occur only on a full moon? 1996
What is the difference between a comet and a meteor? 1997
What is remote sensing? What are its uses, especially in the Indian context? (250 words) 1998
What new type of satellite is proposed to be inducted for bolstering surveillance on India’s border? How does this type of satellite compare with existing IRS satellites? 1999
Answer the following:- (25 words):

1. What is a ‘Swatch of no ground?
2. From where was the most advanced commercial satellite of India Insat 2E launched?
3. What is Global Positioning System (G. P. S.)? 1999

What do the GMRT stand for? 1999
Where is Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre located? 1999
What is the significance of the geostationary orbit? What would happen if it becomes too crowded? 2000
Discuss the significance of GSLV in space research. 2001
Determine the utility of Direct To Home in the broadcasting system. 2001
What does the solar system consist of? Discuss the motion of the entire solar system as a whole and also the motion of most of the bodies forming the solar system. 2003
In which year and by which countries was the International Space Station (ISS) launched? How many countries are participating in this program? What are the unique studies being made in the station which could not be made so accurately on the earth? 2003
Detail the salient features of project Anthareeksha. 2005
What do you know about Indian National Satellite Systems Describe its important features. (250 words) 2008
What is the “Hubble Space Telescope”? How many Servicing Missions (SMS) have been conducted for it? 2009
Write a brief note (30 words): Extra Vehicular Activity (EVA). 2009
Write about NRMS. 2009
Write about the GAGAN Project. 2009
Write brief note on Chandrayaan – lI . 2010
Comment on CARTOSAT – 2B. 2010
The “Kessler syndrome’ with reference to space debris. Comment. 2011
Why has Tiangong-1 been in the news recently? 2011
Why have Gliese 581g been in the news recently? 2011
Significance of the SPOT – 6 rocket launch for ISRO (20 words) 2012
The safe landing of the “Curiosity” Rover under NASA’s space programme has sparked many possibilities. What are those and how could humankind benefit from them? (100 words) 2012
What do you understand by “Standard Positioning System” and “Precision positioning system” in the GPS era? Discuss the advantage India perceives from its ambitious IRNSS programme employing just seven satellites. 2015
Discuss India’s achievements in the field of Space Science and Technology. How the application of this technology has helped India in its socio-economic development? 2016
India has achieved remarkable successes in unmanned space missions including the Chandrayaan and Mars Orbiter Mission, but has not ventured into manned space missions. What are the main obstacles to launching a manned space mission, both in terms of technology and logistics? Examine critically. (150 words) 2017
Why is the Indian Regional Navigational Satellite System (RNSS) needed? How does it help in navigation? (150 words) 2018
What is India’s plan to have its own space station and how will it benefit our space programme? (Answer in 150 words) 2019
Launched on 25 December 2021, James Webb Space Telescope has been much in the news since then. What are its unique features which make it superior to its predecessor Space Telescopes? What are the key goals of this mission? What potential benefits does it hold for the human race? (Answer in 250 words). 2022
What is the main task of India’s third moon mission which could not be achieved in its earlier mission? List the countries that have achieved this task. Introduce the subsystems in the spacecraft launched and explain the role of the ‘Virtual Launch Control Centre’ at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre which contributed to the successful launch from Sriharikota. (Answer in 250 words) 2023

4. BIO-TECHNOLOGY

Define “genetic code’. 1980
What is meant by ‘Genetic Engineering”? What are the promises and dangers associated with it? Do you recommend that India should go ahead in developing this technology? 1981
What is biogas technology? What benefits are envisaged from its use? Describe the steps the Government of India is taking for its development discussing the salient features of the programme. (250 words) 1982
What is biotechnology? Discuss how the promotion and progress of this technology can bring spectacular change in the areas of health, energy, food and agriculture. (250 words) 1984
What is meant by DNA finger printing? 1984
What are test tube babies?1986
Explain the meaning and the uses of gene therapy. 1988
Advances in biotechnology have led to the creation of new micro-organisms previously unknown in nature. What are their uses?1988
Mention the breakthrough made in NCL in the field of plant-genetics and explain its significance. 1990
Give a brief account of major achievements in the realm of biotechnology in India. (250 words) 1991
What is tissue culture? 1991
What is genetic conservation? Bring out the salient features of genetic conservation activity in India. (250 words) 1993
Describe how biotechnology is finding use in medicine. Give a few current examples. 1993
What is DNA fingerprinting? Which research institution in India is working in this area? 1994
What is a gene? Where is it found? 1994
What are transgenic organisms? What are they used for? 1996
What is tissue culture? 1997
What is genetic engineering? Why is it getting increasingly important these days? 1998
Why are transgenic organisms important? 1998
What is the Human Genome Project? Discuss briefly its importance.1999
What are biosensors? Describe their uses.1999
Where is the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology located? 1999
How do identical twins differ from each other genetically? 1999
Discuss the Human Genome, briefly. 2000
How are transgenic plants different from hybrid plants and what is their relevance in modern agriculture? Elaborate. 2000
What are stem cells? Why have they been in the news recently? Discuss. 2001
“Biotechnology boom may pave a golden path for India.” Discuss. 2002
What is Human Cloning? Is it dangerous or beneficial? Discuss. 2002
Discuss the elements of “frozen semen technology. What are ’embryo transfer, ‘transgenic animals, ‘DNA recombinant technique? 2003
What is Biotechnology? Discuss the important applications of Biotechnology. 2004
What is therapeutic cloning? Describe briefly the method and its potential applications. 2005
Write a note on Bio-refinery versus Fossil fuels. 2006
What are normal osmosis and reverse osmosis? Why has reverse osmosis become popular in India today? 2006
Short note on Genome. 2007
Explain the objectives and the current achievements of the human genome project. (150 words). 2007
In what way Medical Biotechnology’ and ‘Bioengineering’ are useful for the technological development of India? (250 words). 2008
What do you understand by Biosignatures’? Discuss briefly. 2009
Write about Green Fluorescence Protein (GFP) and its applications. 2009
Define Bioinformatics. How does it work? What are its major branches and applications? 2009
Explain: DNA fingerprinting and its utility. 2009
Write a brief note in about 30 words: Biometric ATMs. 2009
Write brief but precise note on the Golden Revolution. 2010
What is the ACTN 3 gene and why have it been in the news recently? (Your answers should be in a sentence or two only) 2010
Nisarga – Runa technology of BARC. Comment. 2011
The human population is slated to grow to 9 billion by 2050. In this context, many scientists predict that plant genomics would play a critical role in keeping out hunger and preserving the environment. Explain. (250 words) 2012
Why is there so much activity in the field of biotechnology in our country? How has this activity benefitted the field of biopharma? (250 words) 2018
How can biotechnology improve the living standards of farmers? (250 words) 2019
What are the research and developmental achievements in applied biotechnology? How will these achievements help to uplift the poorer section of society? 2021
What is the basic principle behind vaccine development? How do vaccines work? What approaches were adopted by the Indian vaccine manufacturers to produce COVID-19 vaccines? (Answer in 250 words) 2022
Discuss several ways in which microorganisms can help in meeting the current fuel shortage. (Answer in 150 words) 2023

5. ENERGY INCLUDING NUCLEAR ENERGY

Briefly review India’s Energy resources. In the context of the world shortage of petroleum, how would you plan for meeting our rural energy needs? Discuss the relative merits of centralised generation, supply and distribution of energy visa-vis generation of energy at consumer points or centres. 1979
What is the global energy crisis and what is its impact on India? Having regard to our situation, environment, resources and problems, what would be the profile of an appropriate energy policy for India? Examine critically the available alternative options. (500 words) 1980
Evaluate the impact and implications of the Pokhran Test and the Launching of the Rohini with particular reference to  India.1980
Answer the following:
1. What is a Blast Furnace? Name the inputs into the Blast Furnace.
2. What are super thermal power stations? Where are they being established in India and by which Agency?
3. Distinguish Fusion from Fission. Which process is relevant to generation of power in Atomic Power Stations at present?
4. How is solar energy (i) collected, (il) concentrated and (iii) stored?
5. What is a solid-state device? Mention two manufactured items in which such devices find applications. 1980

Most of the present-day conventional sources of energy are likely to be exhausted sooner or later. Give a short resume of the non-conventional sources of energy that can be availed of in India. 1982
Where is Salal and what is the project established there? 1982
What is heavy water and name one location where it is produced? 1982
(a) Answr the following What are radioisotopes? Describe their use in industry and in medicine. 1983
(b) Where is Kalpakkam and what is the project established there? What is photosynthesis? Where does it generally occur? Name three applications of remote sensing techniques. 1983
The current technology of nuclear power generation is based upon the fission process. What are the alternate methods possible for the generation of nuclear power with reference to the Indian conditions? 1985
What is “Nuclear Winter? What could be its consequences? 1985
Name three Indian reactors which supply radio isotopes. 1986
What is frequency modulation? 1990
What do you understand by nuclear fallout? What is its harmful effects? 1990
What is a fast breeder reactor? Discuss briefly its role in India’s nuclear energy programme. 1990
What is heavy water? What is it used for? 1992
What is RDX made of? Why has it been in the news lately? 1993
Describe briefly the different phases of India’s nuclear energy programme. 1994
What is nuclear medicine? Describe briefly its different uses. 1996
Where are India’s nuclear power plants located? 1996
Where are the following located? 1996 (Give the name of the city and state)
(i) Central Drug Research Institute
(ii) Space Applications Centre
(iii) Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research.
20th century was the century of oil, 21st century would be the century of natural gas.” Comment. 1997
How has India’s Nuclear Programme contributed to the economic and defence requirements of the country? (250 words) 1997
What is a fast breeder reactor? Comment on its suitability in the Indian context. (About 250 words) 1999
What is carbon dating? Describe its applications In archaeology.1999
What do the INMAS stand for? 1999
Where is Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research located? 1999
Write about Radiation and its effects. 2003
Discuss in detail “Alternative Energy Sources”. 2004
Why is hydrogen being acclaimed as the fuel of the future? (150 words) 2005
What are the alternative fuels available for the transport sector? Discuss their characteristics, advantages and disadvantages in their utilisation. 2007
Write brief note in about 30 words: Artificial Sun. 2009
Comment on the salient features of the Integrated Energy Policy recently approved by the Government and its implications on the energy security needs of the country. 2009
What is “Deep water Horizon’ incident and why have it been in the news recently? (Your answers should be in a sentence or two only).2010
“Concentrated’ solar energy and photovoltaic’ solar energy. Comment. 2011
Why have OPERA detector at Gran Sasso been in the news recently? 2011
Given the accelerated pace of development and demand for energy, would you consider renewable energy as a viable option for India’s future? (150 words) 2012
What do you understand by Run-of-river hydroelectricity. project? How is it different from any other hydroelectricity project? (100 words) 2013
To what factors can be the recent dramatic fall in equipment cost and tariff of solar energy be attributed? What implications does the trend have for thermal power producers and related industry? 2015
Give an account of the current status and the targets to be achieved pertaining to renewable energy sources in the country. Discuss in brief the Importance of National Programme on light emitting Diodes (LEDs). 2016
Give an account of the growth and development of nuclear science and technology in India. What is the advantage of a fast breeder reactor in India? (250 words) 2017
Describe the benefits of deriving electric energy from sunlight in contrast to conventional energy generation. What are the initiatives offered by our Government for this purpose? 2020

6. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (IT)

Discuss the impact of electronies on science, industry and society. 1982
What is a microchip? Describe the impact it can have on the technological advancement in India. 1982
What are ‘optical fibres”? What are their applications? 1985
It is believed that the use of fibre optics will revolutionise the telecommunication technology. What progress has been made in India in this field? 1987
What is artificial intelligence? What is its current scenario and what are its prospects? (250 words) 1991
What do the following stand for? 1992
(i) PUFA
(ii) VHRR
(iii) HDTV
What is an E-lamp? What are its main advantages?1993
What is virtual reality? What is it used for? 1996
What do the following stand for:
(i) CGCRI
(ii) INMAS
(iii) NEERI
What is E-mail? 1997
What do the following stand for? 1997
(i) TIFR
(ii) GRDO
(ili) NEER
What are optical fibres? What are their advantages? 1998
State the importance of Antrix Corporation. 1998
Why is the Website getting popular? 1998
What do the following stand for:
(i) C-DAC
(ii) ICMR 16
(iii) TRAI. 1998
Give the functions of interferons. 1998
What Is the difference between E-mail and Fax? 1998
What are the major provisions of the New Telecom Policy approved by the Government? What has been the decision of the Delhi High Court in this respect? 1999
What do the NISSAT stand for? 1999
What is fibre optics? What advantages does it offer in telecommunications? Elaborate. 2001
Write about E-commerce (20 words) 2001
Discuss in detail “The Internet Telephony as an alternative”. 2002
What is interactive television? What special advantages are derived by using VOD services? What are the components of a typical VOD system? Which feature film was generated first entirely on computers and in which year? 2003
Discuss the utility of e-governance in the Indian context. 2004
Write a note on the Use of Information Technology in health management in India. (125 words) 2005
What is digital convergence? Examine its implications for modern society. (250 words) 2005
Write short notes on PACE. 2007
Explain: Internet Protocol Television (IPTV). (150 words) 2008
Explain: Wi-Fi. (150 words).2008
Write a brief note on TIFAC. (20 words) 2008
Define optical frequency comb’. Suggest at least three applications. 2009
Trace the significant steps in the evolution of Television in the country. 2009
Explain and differentiate between Plasma’, ‘LCD’ and ‘LED’ television technologies. 2010
What Is Cloud Computing? Bring out its essential features and list its advantages and limitations. 2010
Comment on Various generations of mobile phone technology. 2010
E-governance initiatives by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). Comment. 2011
Analog, hybrid and IP systems in CCTV technology. Comment. 2011
Discuss the globalisation of R&D and its impact on India’s development. Provide an illustration from at least one sector such as Information Technology or Health. (250 words) 2012
What is a digital signature? What does its authentication mean? Give various salient built-in features of a digital signature. 2013
“The growth of cities as I.T. hubs has opened up new avenues of employment but has also created new problems” Substantiate this statement with examples. (250 words) 2017

7. COMPUTER/ ROBOTICS

Explain briefly the impact of the Computer on Industry, Education and Public Services in India. 1979
What are mini-computers? Comment on the economic and social implications of this innovation. 1980
Comment on the state of computer technology in India today. In this context, point out the possible uses to which supercomputers could be put. 1987
What is a “Compact Dise”? 1988
What is a “Computer Virus”? What are its effects? Is there a remedy? 1989
Explain the meaning of the term quantum jump’. 1990
What is a supercomputer? Give an account of super-computer development in India. 1993
What is a CD-ROM? Describe its main advantages as a vehicle for Information dissemination. 1993
What are encilites? 1994
What do the following stand for?
(i) SROSS (ii) INSDOC 1994
What do the following stand for:
(i) IREDA (ii) APPLE (iii) INMAS 1995
Describe the development of Super-computer in India. 1998
What is a modem? What is it used for?1999
What is a computer virus? How does it infect systems? 1999
Answer the following (20 words):
1. What does the “clock speed’ of a computer signify?
2. What do the following stand for?
  (i) http (ii) CPU (iii) ROM (iv) BIOS
3. What is a modem and what is it used for?
4. What is spamming?
5. How does a computer virus destroy data?
Answer the following (20 words): 2001
1. What is “handshake” in computer language?
2. What is “ethernet” and what is it used for?
3. What is “digital signature” and what is it used for?
4. What do the following stand for?
  (i) DRAM (ii) JPEG(iii) ASCI (iv) IMAP
5. What is a WAP-enabled phone?
Answer the following (20 words):
1. What is a digital camera?
2. What is firewall in Computer Language?
3. What is multimedia?
4. What do the following stand for? 
  (i) HTML (ii) FTP (iii) MELOPS (iv) PLANIT
5. What is Piracy? 2002
Answer the following (20 words):
1. What is Sympathetic Haptics”?
2. What are special features of ‘Linux’?
3. What is an operating system? List the basic services provided by an operating system.
4. What is an “Internet Worm”? Explain DDoS.
5. What do the following stand for?
  (i)POSIX (ii) EPROM (iii) MODEM (iv) COBOL. 2003
Answer the following (20 words)
1. What do you understand by E-governance?
2. What is a URL?
3. What do the following stand for?
  (i) CD-ROM (i) USB (ili) ITES (ir) FORTRAN
4. What do you understand by MP3?
5. What are cyber crimes? How are these protected? 2004
Write about the following: Bluetooth. 2005
Answer the following (20 words):2005
1. What is an exabyte?
2. What is VIRUS?
3. What do the following stand for?
4. XML (ii) MASER (IlI) SECAM
5. What is avatar?
6. What is Wikipedia?
What do you understand by optical computing? Why is optical computing envisaged to have much better performance than that of electronic computing? (150 words) 2006
Answer all the five (20 words): What do you understand by a ‘search engine’ in computing? Expand the following:
(i)CAD (ii) CAM (ili) CIM (iv) TIPS.
Explain what is Thin Film Memory in computers. Write a short note on Artificial Intelligence, Who are called “Hackers’ in the computer world? 2006
Answer all the five
1. What is firewall?
2. What is malware?
3. What do the following
  (i) MPEG (ii) HTML
4. What is a Root kit?
5. What is computer architecture? 2007
Explain the components of Robots. 2007
Write about “bhuvan’ website. 2008
What is Wolfram Alpha and why have it been in the news recently? (Your answers should be in a sentence or two only). 2010
What is Blue Gene Project and why have it been in the news recently? (Your answers should be In a sentence or two only). 2010
The scourge of e-waste. Comment.2011
Differences between Compact Disc (CD), Digital Versatile Disc (DVD) and Blu-ray Disc. Comment. 2011
Why have K-computers been in the news recently? 2011
Why have MABEL robot been in the news recently? 2011
Why have Operation Shady Rat’ been in the news recently? 2011
Why have SAGA – 220 been in the news recently? 2011
The Sequoia supercomputer was launched this year. What are its specific features and what is its purpose? (50 words)2012
What are the areas of prohibitive labour that can be sustainably managed by robots? Discuss the initiatives that can propel the research in premier research institutes for 2015 Substantive and gainful innovation. 2015
Discuss the advantage and security implication of cloud hosting of servers vis-a-vis in house machine based hosting for government business. 2015

8. MATERIAL SCIENCE

Various applications for Kevlar. Comment. 2011

9. DIET /NUTRITION

‘Designer” poultry eggs. Comment. 2011

10. HEALTH INCLUDING MEDICINE

Why has there been a recrudescence of Malaria in India? What steps should be taken to prevent its spread and to eradicate it eventually? 1980
What are antibiotics? Name two antibiotics which are commonly used. 1980
Protein deficiency is a major nutritional problem among the Indian masses. What are the serious consequences of protein deficiency? Evaluate the limitations and advantages of the use of soybeans as a source of protein diet. 1984
What is a pacemaker? 1984
What are genetic diseases? Give some examples. What are the prospects of treatment of patients suffering from such diseases? Can these patients be cured? 1985
What are “monoclonal antibodies”? What are their uses? 1986
What is eugenics? 1986
What do you know about Operation Faith? 1986
What is “immunisation”? Mention the steps being taken to immunise the rural population against common diseases to which they are generally proven. 1987
What are “anabolic steroids”? Give one example. Why have they been in the news recently? 1989
What is ultrasound? State two of its uses In modern medical practice. 1989
The ICMR has cautioned that the dreaded disease AIDS might spread in the next few years in India too. What steps are recommended for its control? 1990
Write an account of BVO. Give reasons against its use. 1990
What is Hepatitis E? 1991
What is MRI? What is it used for?1992
What is DPT vaccine? What is it used for?1993
What are the diseases caused by iodine Deficiency? What steps are beings taken to tackle the problem in India? (250words) 1994
What is AIDS? Describe its salient features. (250 words) 1995
What is ‘amniocentesis”? What has made it a controversial technique? 1995
What is ELISA? What is it used for? 1995
What is a pacemaker? How does it work? 1995
What is bioremediation? 1995
What is HIV? What does it cause? 1996
What is ‘Madcow disease”? 1997
What is Polio? Name its few features and how it can be prevented. 1997
What are enzymes? What is their importance? 1998
Why is HIV considered so dangerous? Why has the spread of the virus proved so difficult to contain, especially in the poorer countries of the world? 2000
Identify the types of disabilities. 2003
Write about Anthrax. 2003
Write brief note on Aspartame.2008
Write brief note on Gene doping. 2008
The last National Family Health Survey (NFHS) displayed a very dismal picture of nutrition as regards several indicators for average Indians. Highlight the salient aspects of this problem.2009
Write on AYUSH-64 (20 words) 2009
Why is telemedicine important for country like India? 2009
What is phytoremediation? Discuss its applications. 2010
Discuss the applications of nanotechnology in the health care sector. 2010
Comment on MRSA infection. 2010
Comment on Ginkgo biloba. 2010
Discuss the extent, causes, and implications of the nutrition transition’ said to be underway in India. (250 words) 2011
The first-aid that you can safely administer to a person standing next to you at the bus-stop who suddenly faints. Comment. 2011
Molecular Breast Imaging (MBI) technology. Comment. 2011
Omega -3 fatty acids in our food. Comment. 2011
What do you understand by the term “Multi – Drug Resistant Tuberculosis” (MDR – TB)? What measures would you advocate for its containment and what are the implications of its spread in the community? 2012
Many food items contain “trans fats”. What do you understand by this term? Which Indian food items contain trans fats? What are the implications of trans fats on human health? (150 words) 2012
You are stationed in a small district town in the plains of Northern India. The summer has been severe. Suddenly, a colleague, who had been out since morning, returns to the office complaining of headache, restlessness and confusion. Shortly, he becomes unconscious. His body temperature is 40°C. What first aid steps would you take to revive him? (50 words) 2012
Despite strict prohibitory regulations, “doping” has become increasingly common amongst athletes. Name five commonly used performance – enhancing drugs. What are the risks associated with their use? (100 words) 2012
The Human Papilloma Virus vaccine has been making the headlines In the recent months. Who make the Ideal candidates for receiving this vaccine and what are its benefits? (50 words) 2012
Can overuse and free availability of antibiotics without Doctor’s prescription, be contributors to the emergence of drug-resistant diseases in India? What are the available mechanisms for monitoring and control? Critically discuss the various issues involved. 2012
Stem cell therapy is gaining popularity in India to treat a wide variety of medical conditions including Leukaemia, Thalassemia, damaged cornea and several burns. Describe briefly what stem cell therapy is and what advantages it has over other treatments? (150 words) 2017
Appropriate local community-level healthcare intervention is a prerequisite to achieve ‘Health for All’ in India. Explain (150 words) 2018
COVID-19 pandemic has caused unprecedented devastation worldwide. However, technological advancements are being availed readily to win over the crisis. Give an account of how technology was sought to aid management of the pandemic. (250 words) 2020

11. OCEAN DEVELOPMENT

As the resources of land are getting depleted, man is turning to the sea for the supply of his needs. What are the prospects of utilisation of Indian marine resources for obtaining our requirements of food, minerals and chemicals, oil and gas? 1981
Describe briefly the achievements of Indian scientists in the exploration of marine resources. 1984
What are ocean floor polymetallic sulphides? Where is the largest occurrence of deposits reported? 1991
Name the main offshore oil field of India and the agency which operates it. 1991
What is ‘Maitri? 1992
Measures taken by the Indian government to combat piracy in the Indian Ocean. Examine. (150 words) 2011

12. OCEAN DEVELOPMENT

As the resources of land are getting depleted, man is turning to the sea for the supply of his needs. What are the prospects of utilization of Indian marine resources for obtaining our requirements of food, minerals and chemicals, oil and gas? 1981
Describe briefly the achievements of Indian scientists in the exploration of marine resources. 1984
What are ocean-floor polymetallic sulfides? Where is the largest occurrence of deposits reported? 1991
Name the main offshore oil field of India and the agency which operates it. 1991
What is ‘Maitri? 1992
Measures taken by the Indian government to combat piracy in the Indian Ocean. Examine. (150 words) 2011

13. LASER AND SUPERCONDUCTIVITY

What is a laser beam? 1980
What are artificial fibres? Compare their properties with natural fibres. Comment upon the growth of artificial fibre industry in India. 1983
What is laser? Indicate two of its important uses. 1983
What is holography? 1984
What is a laser? How does it differ from an ordinary light? Describe the application of lasers in various fields. What are the prospects of its large-scale use in India? (250 words) 1986
What is fluorosis? What can be done to minimise its harmful effects?
How do “quartz watches” keep accurate time? 1989
What is the application of superconductors in computers? (250 words)
What is photonics? Mention some of the areas of its application.1990
What are high-temperature superconductors? Describe their important applications. 1994
What is Piezoelectricity? 1994
What is a microwave oven? How does it cook food?1994
What is centchroman? 1996
What is ultrasonography? 1996
What are fullness? Why are they important? 1996
What are Quasars?1997
What is ‘Superconductivity’? Give its uses and applications.2004
Describe the importance of Laser in war and peace. 2004
Explain  how  Nanoscience and Nanotechnology have revolutionised modern technology.2006
What is “Nanotech”? Give a brief account of its basic concepts, materials used and applications. 2009
Why is nanotechnology one of the key technologies of the 21st century? Describe the salient features of the Indian Government’s Mission on Nanoscience and Technology and the scope of its application in the development process of the country. 2016
What do you understand by nanotechnology and how is it helping in health sector? (150 words)2020

14. AGRICULTURE

What has been the contribution of Science and Technology to the development of Indian Agriculture? (150 words) 1979
Why is fertilizer capacity expressed in terms of tons of nitrogen? What is India’s fertilizer manufacturing capacity? 1980
1982 has been described as the Productivity year by the Government of India. What scientific practices have been identified for increasing production in Agriculture and Animal Husbandry? 1982
A large quantity of food grains and fruits is lost each year after harvesting and during marketing. Describe briefly the steps taken in recent years to prevent these losses. 1982
Per hectare yields of dryland areas, which are substantial in our country are generally low. Why is it so? Name the crops which are mostly grown in these areas. What are the steps taken to stabilize and elevate crop production in these areas? 1983
What is a mutant and what role does it play in Agriculture?  1983
What Is meant by biofertilizer? 1984
Microorganisms have been harnessed by man for a long time for the production of useful materials. Point out some Important developments in this area. What is the current status of microbial technology in our country? (250 words) 1985
What are Carnivorous plants? Give the names of two such plants found in India. 1985
What is Agent Orange? What were its effects?1985
What are underwater nodules?1986
“Some of the modern agricultural practices being used at present in India are leading to undesirable consequences.” Do you agree with this view? 1987
What is Integrated Pest Control Management? Comment on its current status in the Country. 1988
The Government of India has recently set up a Department of Food Processing. What are its functions? 1988
Aquaculture (inland fish farming) is considered to have an important role in increasing the food supply and generating employment. What steps are being taken by the Government to encourage aquaculture? 1990
What are bio-fertilizers? What advantages do they have over chemical fertilizers? 1992
What are synthetic seeds? 1993
What do you understand by ‘Kama! Technology”? What is it used for? 1995
Discuss the role of modern technological inputs on agricultural development in India. How would it be helpful for food security during 21″ century? (250 words) 1999
What is water harvesting? Describe its relevance in the Indian context. 2000
What is vermicomposting? Discuss its importance in the Indian context. 2001
Write short note on Genetically modified seeds. (20 words) 2005
Write brief note on Sappan. 2008
Write about Fruit Production in India 2009
Write brief note Vegetable Gold’. (30 words) 2009
Assess the contributions made by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) in agricultural development. (150 words) 2010
“In the villages itself no form of credit organisation will be suitable except the cooperative society.” -All India Rural Credit Survey. Discuss this statement in the background of agricultural finance in India. What constraints and challenges do financial institutions supplying agricultural finance face?How can technology be used to better reach and serve rural clients? 2014
What is water-use efficiency? Describe the role of micro-irrigation in increasing the water-use efficiency. 2016
Given the vulnerability of Indian agriculture to vagaries of nature, discuss the need for crop Insurance and bring out the salient features of the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana. 2016
How did India benefit from the contributions of Sir M. Visvesvaraya and Dr. M. S. Swaminathan in the fields of water engineering and agricultural science respectively? (150 words) 2019
How is science interwoven deeply with our lives? What are the striking changes in agriculture triggered off by science-based technologies? (150 words) 2020

15. INVENTIONS/DISCOVERIES/ACHIEVEMENTS

International Year of Chemistry. Comment. 2011
‘Arsenic-bug’ and the significance of its discovery. Comment. 2011
Discuss the work of *Bose-Einstein Statistics’ done by Prof. Satyendra Nath Bose and show how it revolutionized the field of Physics. (150 words) 2018
The Nobel Prize in Physics 2014 was jointly awarded to Akasaki, Amano, and Nakamura for the invention of Blue LEDs in the 1990’s. How has this invention impacted the everyday life of human beings? 2021

16. TECHNOLOGY

Difference between “spin-drying’ and ‘tumble-drying’ technology with reference to drying of washed clothes. Comment. 2011
Introduce the concept of Artificial Intelligence (AI). How does AI help clinical diagnosis? Do you perceive any threat to privacy of the individual in the use of AI in healthcare? (Answer in 150 words) 2023

17. IPR/COPYRIGHT/PATENT

What are Intellectual Property Rights? Why are Indian scientists concerned about the new patent regimes? (250 words) 1996
Write brief note on Copyright and Trademark. (20 words) 2008 Bringing out the circumstances in 2005 which forced an amendment to section 3 (d) in Indian Patent Law 1970, discuss how it has been utilized by the Supreme Court in its judgment in rejecting Novartis’ patent application for ‘Glivee’. Discuss briefly the pros and cons of the decision. (200 words) 2013
In a globalized world, Intellectual Property Rights assume significance and are a source of litigation. Broadly distinguish between the terms -Copyrights, Patents, and Trade Secrets. 2014
India’s Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL.) which has a database containing formatted information on more than 2 million medicinal formulations is proving a powerful than in the country’s fight against the database public Discuss the pros and cons of making the database publicly available under open source licensing. 2015
How is the government of India protecting traditional knowledge of medicine from patenting by pharmaceutical companies? (250 words) 2019

18. S & T – DEVELOPMENT AND THEIR APPLICATIONS

What do you understand by Fixed Dose Drug Combination (FDCs)? Discuss their merits and demerits. (200 words) 2013
How does the 3D printing technology work? List out the advantages and disadvantages of the technology. (100 words) 2013
What is an FRP composite material? How are they manufactured? Discuss their applications in the aviation and automobile industries. (100 words) 2013
Scientific research in Indian universities is declining, because a career in science is not as attractive as business professions, engineering, or administration, and the universities are becoming consumer-oriented. Critically comment. 2014

19. MISCELLANEOUS

Explain: Spintronics (150 words) 2008
What is “Graphene”? Mention at least three of its applications. 2009
Write a brief note on the ‘Aerostat’ balloon. 2010
Comment on HRP – 2M Choromet. 2010
Comment on Maglev vehicles. 2010
Comment on Super absorbent polymers (SAP). 2010
What is “Dreamliner” aircraft and why has it been in the news recently? (Your answers should be in a sentence or two only). 2010

Science and Technology UPSC Topic Wise Mains Previous Year Questions (1979-2023)