Analysis of GS Paper 2 of UPSC Mains 2017: A Predictable Yet Straightforward Exam

UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) Mains 2017 was marked by a unique pattern that required a blend of current affairs understanding and the ability to present well reasoned arguments within stringent word limits. This article delves into the analysis of GS Paper 2, examining its structure, predictability, and the factors that influenced its outcome.

The Pattern and Structure of GS Paper 2, 2017

The pattern of marks for GS Paper 2 in 2017 underwent a subtle yet noticeable change, maintaining continuity with the previous year’s structure. The first ten questions carried 10 marks each, with a word count requirement of 150 words. Conversely, the last ten questions were more substantial, carrying 15 marks each and requiring a word count of 250 words. This structure suggests that the examination not only aimed to assess basic understanding but also required students to present detailed and coherent arguments.

Predictable and Relevant Questions

Despite the changes, GS Paper 2 of 2017 was marred by a high degree of predictability. Many questions drew upon recent current affairs, making them accessible to candidates who kept up with relevant events. Specific topics like GST, Right to Privacy, and the general elections were directly uplifted from current discussion points.

Question Range and Answering Strategy

Out of the 20 questions in the 2017 paper, a striking 16 questions (80%) could be answered with a straightforward approach, relying on standard preparation and reference sources. Key sources included Kurukshetra magazine, Laxmikanth’s materials, IGNOU’s MPS-003, and reports from the 2nd ARC (Asset and Resource Complaints). These sources are well-regarded for their detailed and comprehensive coverage of government policies and governance issues.

Core Topics and Barriers to Success

While the content was predictable, the exam rewarded candidates who could present clear, factually robust answers within the word limit. The questions covered a wide array of topics, including:

PAC’s role in enforcing accountability Weaknesses in PRI (Panchayat Raj Institutions) Defining and understanding pressure groups Addressing poverty and hunger Evaluating the effectiveness of joint sessions of parliament

This marks a shift away from questions that required deeper understanding and analytical reasoning, favoring those candidates with strong rote memorization skills. This approaches marked a departure from the previous guidelines, which emphasized analytical depth over mere fact-retrieval.

Sectional Analysis and Mark Distribution

The mark distribution across different sections in GS Paper 2, 2017, provides insight into the breadth of the examination:

Polity - 90 marks Welfare - 60 marks Good Governance - 50 marks 1R (Resilience and Resourcefulness) - 50 marks

The relatively high marks allocated to Polity and Governance reflect the exam’s focus on understanding and evaluating the functioning of governmental institutions. The inclusion of 1R questions highlights the importance of analytical and critical thinking skills in the broader context of governance.

Challenges and Personal Perspectives

The 2017 GS Paper 2 was described as straightforward but faced criticism for its predictability and reliance on rote learning. While it was user-friendly for those well-prepared, it potentially handicapped candidates who required a deeper analytical understanding of the topics.

I, personally, am a proponent of analytical over straightforward questions. The ability to dissect an issue and present a well-structured argument is crucial in both the civil services and real-world governance. However, the exam’s straightforward nature undoubtedly benefited candidates who could recall a substantial number of relevant facts.

In my opinion, an examination should aim to challenge candidates to think critically and apply their knowledge in varied scenarios. This approach fosters a better understanding of governance and its complex dynamics. The predictability of the 2017 paper, while practical, may have led to a less stimulating and enriching educational experience for aspirants aiming for a career in governance.

Conclusion: In summary, the GS Paper 2 of UPSC Mains 2017 was a blend of predictability and straightforwardness, reflecting a shift in exam patterns. While this structure made the paper accessible to a wider range of candidates through factual recall, it potentially minimized the importance of analytical and critical thinking skills.