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(Exam Paper) UPSC IAS Mains 2009: Geography

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(Exam Paper) UPSC IAS Mains 2009: Geography

Paper- I

SECTION A

1. Answer the following in about 200 words each
(a) Highlight the geomorphic features essentially found in topographies under the Second Cycle of Erosion. 2
(b) Give a brief account of the principal land biomes and their latitudinal distribution. 20
(c) Discuss views on slope development provided by L. C. King. 20

2. (a) Identify each feature that is indicated by the numerals (i) to (x) on the World Map provided. Identification of the feature carries 2 marks each.
(b) Mention the location of each feature in respect of ± GMT. This carries 1 mark each.
(c) Provide a write-up on the significance of the identified feature in approximately 40 words. This carries 3 marks each.

3. (a) Explain factors contributing to the Global Climate Change. 20
(b) Discuss the consequences of Climate Change of agriculture and food security, and on the Coastal Zones of the world. 20
(c) How does Climate Change affect urban areas? 20

4. (a) Examine economic significance of the resources of the Continental shelf of the Indian Ocean. 30
(b) Comment on marine heat budget and the oceanic circulation system. 30

SECTION B

5. Write short notes on any three of the following in about 200 words each :
(a) Weight Triangle
(b) ‘Limits to Growth’ model
(c) Tropical atmospheric instability.
(d) Zonal and Azonal soils.

6. (a) Provide a geographical account of global production and distribution of food. 30
(b) ‘Quantitative Revolution and model building provided an empirical basis for geographical research’- Elaborate. 30

7. Elaborate the concept of Megalopolis and discuss the characteristics and problems related to two such regions selecting one each from North America and Europe. 60

8. (a) Provide a broad classification of world cultural regions. 30
(b) Highlight the significance of environmental issues in Regional Planning. 30

Paper- II

SECTION A

1. On the outline map of India provided to you, mark the location of any fifteen of the following for which 1(one) mark is given to each correct entry. Write in your answer script the significant geographical relevance or strategic importance of these locations, whether physical/commercial/economic/ecological/ environmental/cultural in not more than 30 words for each entry. 3 (three) marks are allotted for each write-up.
(a) Akarimota
(b) Kolleru Lake
(c) Van Tivu
(d) Silent Valley
(e) Amravati River
(f) Pirotan Island
(g) Mangla
(h) Meghnagar
(i) Shipki La
(j) Bhachau
(k) The home of Sundari tree
(l) Place of origin of River Narmada
(m) Gokak
(n) Ken River
(o) Bailadila
(p) Bhavani Sagar Dam
(q) Kutralam Falls
(r) Dalma Hills
(s) Dhanjori Hills
(t) Rangit River

2. (a) Discuss the formation and their distribution of the major soil types of India. 30
(b) Give reasons as to why rainfall variability is a characteristic feature of India’s monsoons 30

3. Distinguish between the West and East coasts of India in terms of their evolution, present topography and drainage pattern. 60

4. Examine the role of raw materials in the location of the Iron and Steel Industry in India. Illustrate your answer with suitable examples. 60

SECTION B

5. Answer any three of the following in about 200 words each:
(a) What is the role of the Triple Transport System in the regional development of India?
(b) Explain the factors responsible for the distribution of Sugar industry in India.
(c) State the geographical factors which influence rural house types in India.
(d) Giving reasons, identify the chronic drought-prone areas of India.

6. What are the causes and consequences of environmental degradation in India’s industrial areas? 60

7. “There is no sharp divide where an urban settlement stops and rural area begins.” Analyse the statement with reference to the sprawl of Indian cities. 60

8. (a) How do the ‘push’ and ‘pull’ factors operate for the emergence of slums in the metropolises of India? 30
(b) Discuss the impact of globalization on India’s industry and agriculture sectors. 30