essay paper upsc 2020

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

UPSC Coaching, Study Materials, and Mock Exams

Enroll in ClearIAS UPSC Coaching Join Now Log In

Call us: +91-9605741000

Essay Paper UPSC 2020 (Mains): Question Paper and Analysis

Last updated on January 9, 2021 by ClearIAS Team

UPSC conducted the  Essay Paper , as part of the Civil Services Main Exam 2020 on 08-01-2021.

There were 8 Essay topics, out of which candidates were asked to write on two topics in 3 hours.

Table of Contents

Essay Paper UPSC 2020 Instructions

• Total Marks: 250 marks, Time duration: 3 hours.
• The essay must be written in the medium authorized in the admission certificate which must be stated clearly on the cover of this question-cum-answer (QCA) booklet in the space provided.
• No marks will be given for answers written in the medium other than the authorized one.
• Word limit, as specified, should be adhered to.
• Any page or portion of the page left blank, must be struck off clearly.

Essay Question Paper – UPSC Civil Services Main Exam (Written) 2020

Write two essays, choosing one topic from each of the following Sections A and B, in about 1000-1200 words each:

• Life is long journey between human being and being humane
• Mindful manifesto is the catalyst to a tranquil self
• Ships do not sink because of water around them,  ships sink because of water that gets into them
• Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication
• Culture is what we are, civilization is what we have
• There can be no social justice without economic prosperity but economic prosperity without social justice is meaningless
• Patriarchy is the least noticed yet the most significant structure of social inequality
• Technology as the silent factor in international relations

Though aspirants were asked to write only two essays out of eight, most aspirants faced difficulty to select the right combination of two essays.

A philosophical theme was present in most of the essay topics in Section A as well as Section B.

As per most aspirants, the essay topic ‘Mindful manifesto is the catalyst to a tranquil self’ seemed the most tricky one. Only a few attempted that topic.

UPSC has ensured that the essay topics were much different from the GS questions.

As we have mentioned many times, Essay needs a different approach than GS. Only those candidates with good essay writing skills will score high in this year’s essay paper.

Take a Test: Analyse Your Progress

Aim IAS, IPS, or IFS?

About ClearIAS Team

ClearIAS is one of the most trusted learning platforms in India for UPSC preparation. Around 1 million aspirants learn from the ClearIAS every month.

Our courses and training methods are different from traditional coaching. We give special emphasis on smart work and personal mentorship. Many UPSC toppers thank ClearIAS for our role in their success.

Download the ClearIAS mobile apps now to supplement your self-study efforts with ClearIAS smart-study training.

Reader Interactions

September 22, 2023 at 12:35 pm

Hello i am interested to take coaching UPSC Examinations how could you help me

September 25, 2023 at 5:46 pm

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Don’t lose out without playing the right game!

Follow the ClearIAS Prelims cum Mains (PCM) Integrated Approach.

Join ClearIAS PCM Course Now

UPSC Online Preparation

• Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
• Indian Administrative Service (IAS)
• Indian Police Service (IPS)
• IAS Exam Eligibility
• UPSC Free Study Materials
• UPSC Exam Guidance
• UPSC Prelims Test Series
• UPSC Syllabus
• UPSC Online
• UPSC Prelims
• UPSC Interview
• UPSC Toppers
• UPSC Previous Year Qns
• UPSC Age Calculator
• UPSC Calendar 2024
• About ClearIAS
• ClearIAS Programs
• ClearIAS Fee Structure
• IAS Coaching
• UPSC Coaching
• UPSC Online Coaching
• ClearIAS Blog
• Important Updates
• Announcements
• Book Review
• ClearIAS App
• Work with us
• Advertise with us
• Privacy Policy
• Terms and Conditions
• Talk to Your Mentor

Featured on

and many more...

[Download] UPSC Mains-2020 Essay Paper, Including Topicwise last 28 YEARS Essay Question Papers (1993-2020) with booklist, strategy!

Upsc mains-2020’s essay paper compared to the past papers..

• UPSC Essay Preparation/Strategy/Booklist?

UPSC-CSM20-Essay: Section-A

Upsc-csm20-essay: section-b.

1 India: Democracy, administration, Society, culture

1.1 India Since Independence

1.2 Federalism, Decentralization

1.3 Administration

1.4 Judiciary

1.5 Poverty, Social Justice

1.6 Indian Society, Culture and Values

1.7 Media, TV & Cinema

2 Economy, Development

2.1 Growth vs Development

2.2 Environment vs Development

2.4 Sectors of Economy

3 Education

3.1 Values in Education

3.2 Scheme implementation

3.3 Higher education

4 Quote based, Philosophy, Ethics

4.1 Character, Honesty, Ethics

4.2 Knowledge

4.3 Compassion

4.4 Truth and reality

4.5 Youth, Discipline

4.6 Towards excellence

5 Women empowerment

5.1 @National Politics

5.2 @World / Quote type

5.3 Empowerment overall

5.4 Compared to men

6 International issues, Internal Security

6.1 Globalization

6.2 International Org./ Bilateral

6.3 Security

7 Science-Technology

7.1 Science and Religion

7.2 Science and Education

7.3 Computer and internet

7.4 Sci-Tech: others

• On Jan-08-2021, UPSC Conducted Civil Services Mains Exam (CSM-2020)’s Essay Paper (Because of the Corona lockdown, the exam cycle is running late).

• New aspirants need to take care not to get brainwashed by one sided analysis of coaching-classes that “ just because so many philosophical topics are asked so you should blindly take philosophy as an optional subject And automatically you will get a ticket to IAS selection! ” – As per the latest annual report of UPSC uploaded on their website, the number of UPSC selection from Philosophy was 53 candidates among 1056 candidates selected in 2017 i.e. 7% (btw, It seems UPSC uploads the annual reports with a lot of delay so as to avoid controversies about selections)

What to do for Essay Preparation/Strategy/Booklist?

• In the market there are lot of readymade books available for the essay. However, as far as the Civil Service exam is concerned they’re not very useful.
• you have to manually gather the content and cultivate the skill for essay writing. Common resources include:
• Last 3 years Yojana and Kurukshetra magazines: They are available in English, Hindi and other Vernacular languages. They can be downloaded for free from their official website: http://yojana.gov.in/Recent_archive_2018.asp (Tip: Replace the year in URL, when you want to access previous years). There is no need to read each and every article, at least go through the preface / Editor’s Note in the beginning of each PDF.
• Last 3-5 years economic surveys available for free at https://indiabudget.gov.in/bspeecha.asp No need to read entire PDFs, just the introductions and conclusions of each chapter.
• IGNOU MPS-003 module. Available for free at https://egyankosh.ac.in
• NCERT textbooks, especially those related to Sociology, Political Science and World History.
• Newspaper Columns: English (TheHindu or IndianExpress), Hindi (JanSatta). In the vernacular language newspapers (e.g. Divya-Bhaskar Gujarati etc)= the quality of the column is not worthy of civil service exam essays.
• Ethics (GS Paper 4) related preparation would also come handy here.

2020’s Essay Paper in linear/sequential format

(write any one essay in 1000-1200 words, 125 marks)

• 1) Life is a long journey between human being and being humane. (मनुष्य होने और मानव बनने के बीच का लम्बा सफर ही जीवन है)
• 2) Mindful manifesto is the catalyst to a tranquil self (विचारपरक संकल्प स्वयं के शांतचित्त रहने का उत्प्रेरक है )
• 3) Ships don’t sink because of water around them ships sink because of water that gets into them (जहाज अपने चारों तरफ के पानी के वजह से नहीं डूबा करते, जहाज पानी के अंदर समां जाने की वजह से डूबता हैं )
• 4) Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication (सरलता चरम परिष्करण है )
• 5) Culture is what we are, civilization is what we have (जो हम है, वह संस्कार; जो हमारे पास है, वह सभ्यता )
• 6) There can be no social justice without economic prosperity but economic prosperity without social justice is meaningless (बिना आर्थिक समृद्धि के सामाजिक न्याय नहीं हो सकता, किन्तु बिना सामाजिक न्याय के आर्थिक समृद्धि निरर्थक है )
• 7) Patriarchy is the least noticed yet the most significant structure of social inequality (पितृ-सत्ता की व्यवस्था नजर मैं बहुत काम आने के बावजूद सामाजिक विषमता की सबसे प्रभावी संरचना है)
• 8) Technology as the silent factor in international relations (अंतर्राष्ट्रीय संबंधों मैं मौन करक के रूप मैं प्रौद्योगिकी)

Topic wise Essays of last 28 years (1993-2020)

• Is the Colonial mentality hindering India’s Success? -2013
• 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
• Dreams which should not let India sleep. -2015
• Why should we be proud of being Indians? -2000
• Whither Indian democracy? -1995
• How far has democracy in India delivered the goods? -2003
• What we have not learnt during fifty years of independence. -1997
• What have we gained from our democratic set-up? -2001
• My vision of India in 2001 a.d. -1993
• Impact of the new economic measures on fiscal ties between the union and states in India. -2017
• Water disputes between States in federal India. -2016
• Cooperative federalism : Myth or reality. -2016
• Creation of smaller states and the consequent administrative, economic and developmental implication -2011
• Evaluation of panchayati raj system in India from the point of view of eradication of power to people. -2007
• Water resources should be under the control of the central government. -2004
• The language problem in India: its past, present and prospects. -1998
• How should a civil servant conduct himself? -2003
• 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
• Politics, bureaucracy and business – fatal triangle. -1994
• We may brave human laws but cannot resist natural laws. -2017
• Justice must reach the poor -2005
• Judicial activism and Indian democracy. -2004
• Judicial activism. -1997
• There can be no social justice without economic prosperity but economic prosperity without social justice is meaningless (बिना आर्थिक समृद्धि के सामाजिक न्याय नहीं हो सकता, किन्तु बिना सामाजिक न्याय के आर्थिक समृद्धि निरर्थक है ) -2020
• Neglect of primary health care and education in India are reasons for its backwardness. -2019
• The focus of health care is increasingly getting skewed towards the ‘haves’ of our society. -2009
• Food security for sustainable national development -2005
• Reservation, politics and empowerment. -1999
• Culture is what we are, civilization is what we have (जो हम है, वह संस्कार; जो हमारे पास है, वह सभ्यता ) -2020
• Indian culture today: a myth or a reality? -2000
• Modernism and our traditional socio-ethical values. -2000
• The composite culture of India. -1998
• The Indian society at the crossroads. -1994
• From traditional Indian philanthropy to the gates-buffet model-a natural progression or a paradigm shift? -2010
• New cults and godmen: a threat to traditional religion -1996
• Biased media is a real threat to Indian democracy. -2019
• Responsibility of media in a democracy. -2002
• Role of media in good governance -2008
• Does Indian cinema shape our popular culture or merely reflect it? -2011
• How has satellite television brought about cultural change in Indian mindsets? -2007
• Is sting operation an invasion on privacy? -2014
• Mass media and cultural invasion. -1999
• The misinterpretation and misuse of freedom in India. -1998
• Poverty anywhere is a threat to prosperity everywhere. -2018
• Digital economy: A leveller or a source of economic inequality. -2016
• Innovation is the key determinant of economic growth and social welfare. -2016
• Near jobless growth in India: An anomaly or an outcome of economic reforms. -2016
• Crisis faced in India – moral or economic. -2015
• Was it the policy paralysis or the paralysis of implementation which slowed the growth of our country? -2014
• GDP (Gross Domestic Product) along with GDH (Gross Domestic Happiness) would be the right indices for judging the wellbeing of a country-2013
• Can capitalism bring inclusive growth? -2015
• Resource management in the Indian context. -1999
• Economic growth without distributive justice is bound to breed violence. -1993
• Alternative technologies for a climate change resilient India. -2018
• Should a moratorium be imposed on all fresh mining in tribal areas of the country? -2010
• Urbanisation and its hazards -2008
• Protection of ecology and environment is essential for sustained economic development. -2006
• Urbanization is a blessing in disguise. -1997
• Ecological considerations need not hamper development. -1993
• Globalization would finish small-scale industries in India. -2006
• Multinational corporations – saviours or saboteurs -1994
• Special economic zone: boon or bane -2008
• 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
• Farming has lost the ability to be a source of subsistence for majority of farmers in India. -2017
• BPO boom in India. -2007
• Tourism: Can this be the next big thing for India? -2014
• Are our traditional handicrafts doomed to a slow death? -2009
• Destiny of a nation is shaped in its classrooms. -2017
• Education without values, as useful as it is, seems rather to make a man more clever devil-2015
• Independent thinking should be encouraged right form the childhood. -2007
• Are the standardized tests good measure of academic ability or progress? -2014
• Irrelevance of the classroom. -2001
• Is the growing level of competition good for the youth? -2014
• Literacy is growing very fast, but there is no corresponding growth in education. -1996
• Is an egalitarian society possible by educating the masses ? -2008
• What is real education? -2005
• “Education for all” campaign in India: myth or reality. -2006
• Restructuring of Indian education system. -1995
• Privatization of higher education in India. -2002
• Credit – based higher education system – status, opportunities and challenges -2011
• Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication (सरलता चरम परिष्करण है ) -2020
• Ships don’t sink because of water around them ships sink because of water that gets into them (जहाज अपने चारों तरफ के पानी के वजह से नहीं डूबा करते, जहाज पानी के अंदर समां जाने की वजह से डूबता हैं ) -2020
• Life is a long journey between human being and being humane. (मनुष्य होने और मानव बनने के बीच का लम्बा सफर ही जीवन है)-2020
• Values are not what humanity is, but what humanity ought to be -2019
• Best for an individual is not necessarily best for the society -2019
• Courage to accept and dedication to improve are two keys to success -2019
• Wisdom finds truth -2019
• A people that values its privileges above its principles loses both. -2018
• Customary morality cannot be a guide to modem file. -2018
• Need brings greed, if greed increases it spoils breed. -2016
• Character of an institution is reflected in its leader. -2015
• With greater power comes greater responsibility. -2014
• Words are sharper than the two-edged sword. -2014
• Attitude makes, habit makes character and character makes a man. -2007
• He would reigns within himself and folds his passions and desires and fears is more than a king. -1993
• Mindful manifesto is the catalyst to a tranquil self (विचारपरक संकल्प स्वयं के शांतचित्त रहने का उत्प्रेरक है )-2020
• ‘The past’ is a permanent dimension of human consciousness and values. -2018
• A good life is one inspired by love and guided by knowledge. -2018
• There is nothing either good or bad but thinking makes it so. -2003
• Disinterested intellectual curiosity is the lifeblood of civilisation. -1995
• Joy is the simplest form of gratitude. -2017
• Compassion is the basic of all morality of the world -1993
• Lending hands to someone is better than giving a dole. -2015
• Be the change you want to see in others (Gandhi)-2013
• Reality does not conform to the ideal, but confirms it. -2018
• Truth is lived, not taught -1996
• When money speaks, the truth is silent. -1995
• Search for truth can only be a spiritual problem. -2002
• Discipline means success, anarchy means ruin -2008
• Youth is a blunder, manhood a struggle, old age a regret -1994
• If youth knew, if age could. -2002
• Youth culture today. -1999
• Fifty Golds in Olympics: Can this be a reality for India? -2014
• Quick but steady wins the race. -2015
• Useless life is an early death. -1994
• Our deeds determine us, as much as we determine our deeds. -1995
• The paths of glory lead but to the grave. -2002
• The pursuit of excellence. -2001
• Greater political power alone will not improve women’s plight. -1997
• Women’s reservation bill would usher in empowerment for women in India. -2006
• The new emerging women power: the ground realities. -1995
• If women ruled the world -2005
• The hand that rocks the cradle -2005
• Patriarchy is the least noticed yet the most significant structure of social inequality (पितृ-सत्ता की व्यवस्था नजर मैं बहुत काम आने के बावजूद सामाजिक विषमता की सबसे प्रभावी संरचना है) -2020
• Fulfilment of ‘new woman’ in India is a myth. -2017
• If development is not engendered, it is endangered. -2016
• Whither women’s emancipation? -2004
• Empowerment alone cannot help our women. -2001
• Women empowerment: challenges and prospects. -1999
• Woman is god’s best creation. -1998
• Men have failed: let women take over. -1993
• Managing work and home – is the Indian working woman getting a fair deal ?-2012
• South Asian societies are woven not around the state, but around their plural cultures and plural identities. -2019
• Geography may remain the same ; history need not. -2010
• Modernisation and westernisation are not identical concepts. -1994
• ‘globalization’ vs. ‘nationalism’ -2009
• National identity and patriotism -2008
• Globalizations and its impact on Indian culture. -2004
• The masks of new imperialism. -2003
• As civilization advances culture declines. -2003
• The implications of globalization for India. -2000
• My vision of an ideal world order. -2001
• India’s contribution to world wisdom. -1998
• The world of the twenty-first century. -1998
• Preparedness of our society for India’s global leadership role. -2010
• Technology as the silent factor in international relations (अंतर्राष्ट्रीय संबंधों मैं मौन करक के रूप मैं प्रौद्योगिकी) -2020
• Has the Non-Alignment Movement (NAM) lost its relevance in a multipolar world ? -2017
• Restructuring of UNO reflect present realities -1996
• The global order: political and economic -1993
• India’s role in promoting ASEAN co-operation. -2004
• Importance of Indo-US nuclear agreement -2006
• Management of Indian border dispute is a complex task. -2018
• In the Indian context , both human intelligence and technical intelligence are crucial in combating terrorism -2011
• Are we a ‘soft’ state ? -2009
• Good fences make good neighbours -2009
• Is autonomy the best answer to combat balkanization? -2007
• Terrorism and world peace -2005
• True religion cannot be misused. -1997
• Spirituality and scientific temper. -2003
• Science and Mysticism : Are they compatible ?-2012
• Modern technological education and human values. -2002
• Value-based science and education. -1999
• The march of science and the erosion of human values. -2001
• Rise of Artificial Intelligence: the threat of jobless future or better job opportunities through reskilling and upskilling. -2019
• ‘Social media’ is inherently a selfish medium. -2017
• Cyberspace and Internet : Blessing or curse to the human civilization in the long run -2016
• Increasing computerization would lead to the creation of a dehumanized society. -2006
• The cyberworld: its charms and challenges. -2000
• Computer: the harbinger of silent revolution. -1993
• Technology cannot replace manpower. -2015
• Science and technology is the panacea for the growth and security of the nation-2013
• The modern doctor and his patients. -1997
• The lure of space. -2004

visit Mrunal.org/download for more papers

Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!

Related posts, [economy] government scheme financing: “input based” to “result based” financing of government scheme – how does it help.

[Lecture] Mrunal’s UPSC GSM3-2020 Model Ans: Science Technology, Internal Security & Border Management Questions from last Mains Exam Solved!

[Lecture] Mrunal’s UPSC GSM3-2020 Model Ans: Agro, Food Proc, Environment, Disaster Management

[free lecture] mrunal’s mains ans writing [flm/r2] gsm3: economy-socialism & subsidies, psus, gst compensation, 73 comments.

Thank you sir, Please also upload for other subject (GS 1, 2,3,4) It will be a great help

Thank you sir

UPSC solved essay papers

Essay paper download

Thank you sir please provide essay question paper PDF

Thank you so much sir

How to downloded

is essay upsc allowed written in nepali medium ?

Thank You Sir!!

Hii download kese karana he

Need to download

it is arranged nicely, Thank you sir

Where is the link plz help me

Sir,from where we can get model answers (for general idea )of this previous year asked essays. Thanks for sharing above information.

Pl. Send more info.

Great efforts

Sir plz share pvq questions

really amazing guide

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Discover more from mrunal.

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading

• TRP for UPSC Personality Test
• Interview Mentorship Programme – 2023
• Daily News & Analysis
• Daily Current Affairs Quiz
• Baba’s Explainer
• Dedicated TLP Portal
• 60 Day – Rapid Revision (RaRe) Series – 2024
• English Magazines
• Hindi Magazines
• Yojana & Kurukshetra Gist
• PT20 – Prelims Test Series
• Gurukul Foundation
• Gurukul Advanced – Launching Soon
• Prelims Exclusive Programme (PEP)
• Prelims Test Series (AIPTS)
• S-ILP – English
• S-ILP – हिंदी
• Connect to Conquer(C2C) 2024
• TLP Plus – 2024
• TLP Connect – 2024
• Public Administration FC – 2024
• Anthropology Foundation Course
• Anthropology Optional Test Series
• Sociology Foundation Course – 2024
• Sociology Test Series – 2023
• Geography Optional Foundation Course
• Geography Optional Test Series – Coming Soon!
• PSIR Foundation Course
• PSIR Test Series – Coming Soon
• ‘Mission ಸಂಕಲ್ಪ’ – Prelims Crash Course
• CTI (COMMERCIAL TAX INSPECTOR) Test Series & Video Classes
• Monthly Magazine

[UPSC Mains 2020] ESSAY PAPER- UPSC CIVIL SERVICES MAINS EXAM (CSE) 2020

• January 8, 2021

Important Updates , UPSC MAINS 2020 QUESTION PAPERS

1. Life is a long journey between human being and being humane.

2. Mindful manifesto is the catalyst to a tranquil self.

3. Ships do not sink because of water around them, ships sink because of water that gets into them.

4. Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.

1.Culture is what we are, civilisation is what we have.

2. There can be no social justice without economic prosperity but economic prosperity without social justice is meaningless.

3. Patriarchy is the least noticed yet the most significant structure of social inequality.

4. Technology as the silent factor in international relations.

In this VIDEO, SUNIL OBEROI Sir IAS (Retd.) gives an Analysis & Approach of each Essay topic (UPSC Mains 2020), Trend of Essay Paper in UPSC in the last few years and what should be the approach

For a dedicated peer group, Motivation & Quick updates, Join our official telegram channel – https://t.me/IASbabaOfficialAccount

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel HERE to watch Explainer Videos, Strategy Sessions, Toppers Talks & many more…

• Essay Paper 2020 , UPSC Mains Essay paper 2020 , UPSC Mains-2020: ESSAY PAPER- UPSC CIVIL SERVICES MAINS EXAM 2020

Related Posts :

Upsc csat quiz – 2021: iasbaba’s daily csat practice test – 8th january 2021, upsc static quiz – 2021: iasbaba’s daily static quiz (pyqs) – polity [day 5].

• UPSC Quiz – 2024 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 13th April 2024
• [DAY 35] 60 DAY RAPID REVISION (RaRe) SERIES for UPSC Prelims 2024 – ENVIRONMENT, CURRENT AFFAIRS & CSAT TEST SERIES!
• [Admission Open] Baba’s GURUKUL FOUNDATION Classroom Programme for Freshers’ – UPSC/IAS 2025 – Above & Beyond Regular Coaching – OFFLINE and ONLINE. Starts 6th May.
• DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 12th April 2024
• [DAY 34] 60 DAY RAPID REVISION (RaRe) SERIES for UPSC Prelims 2024 – SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, CURRENT AFFAIRS & CSAT TEST SERIES!
• UPSC Quiz – 2024 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 12th April 2024
• DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 11th April 2024
• UPSC Quiz – 2024 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 11th April 2024
• [DAY 33] 60 DAY RAPID REVISION (RaRe) SERIES for UPSC Prelims 2024 – ECONOMY, CURRENT AFFAIRS & CSAT TEST SERIES!
• UPSC Quiz – 2024 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 10th April 2024

Don’t lose out on any important Post and Update. Learn everyday with Experts!!

Email Address

Search now.....

Sign up to receive regular updates.

Sign Up Now !

ESSAY 2020 QUESTION PAPER- UPSC IAS MAINS 2020 QUESTION PAPER

IAS MAINS 2020-ESSAY QUESTION PAPER

Download essay 2020 question paper.

UPSC Mains 2020 – Download Essay Question Paper  – UPSC conducted the Essay Paper, as part of Civil Services Main Exam 2020 on 08-01-2021. Aspirants can now download essay question paper (scroll down and use the print-PDF option).

ESSAY PAPER: UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination – 2020

Instructions.

• Total Marks: 250 marks, Time duration: 3 hours.
• The essay must be written in the medium authorized in the admission certificate which must be stated clearly on the cover of this question-cum-answer (QCA) booklet in the space provided.
• No marks will be given for answers written in the medium other than authorized one.
• Word limit, as specified, should be adhered to.
• Any page or portion of the page left blank, must be struck off clearly.
• Life is long journey between human being and being humane.
• Mindful manifesto is the catalyst to a tranquil self.
• Ships do not sink because of water around them ,  ships sink because of water that gets into them.
• Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.
• Culture is what we are, civilization is what we have.
• There can be no social justice without economic prosperity but economic prosperity without social justice is meaningless.
• Patriarchy is the least noticed yet the most significant structure of social inequality.
• Technology as the silent factor in international relations.

IASTODY DEDICATED COURSES IN A GLANCE

• Prelims TEST SERIES -PRO 2024 - More than just a prelims test series for 2024 aspirants. 2024 PRELIMS in an integrated manner with mains and interview together with daily writing and review. -  { CLICK HERE for details }
• WRITING SKILL DEVELOPMENT(Daily review) (2 months- 6 months) Next is writing skill development- Available for 2 months and 6 months fixed. This can be used for 2024 or even 2025. Your answer will be reviewed as beginner in first day. Next day feedback will be based on first day performance and so on. You will develop a writing skill development better than aspirants outside IASTODAY by the end of this course- CLICK HERE TO KNOW MORE 
• DAILY REVIEW (Beginner) 2024 - Till mains 2024 We have Daily review (beginner) course available till Mains 2024. This course have 3 phases ie, Novice and then beginner phase till prelims examination and aggressive mode post prelims exam- You will write 1 answer a day as novice, then 2 till prelims and there after 4 daily.- CLICK HERE TO KNOW MORE
• ESSAY TEST SERIES 2023 & 24- Dedicated Essay test series for scoring high is now available for  2024. Real time exam environment, 24 hours accessibility and more @ a nominal fees - { CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS }
• Affordable Integrated Marathon (AIM 2024)- Dedicated All in one low cost series covering prelims test series, mains test series, daily answer review, interview, essay, optional and more in single version at lowest ever possible affordable version. Real time exam environment, 24 hours accessibility and more @ a nominal fees in comparison to features - { CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS }
• MASTER PLUS 2024 -Dedicated mains 2024 @ Rs.50/day effective. Flagship MAINS 2024 program with all features   including 29 mains tests, Daily answer review in 3-4 hours & value added notes and much more - { CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS }.
• PREMIUM 2024  - Full coverage @ Rs.55/day effective. Our Flagship prelims to interview with all premium features including daily answer review in 60 minutes, Prelims ,interview and much more -{ CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS }.

DEDICATED COURSES IN A GLANCE

WRITING SKILL DEVELOPMENT (SPECIAL 1 month ) DAILY REVIEW by IASTODAY

Registration open to all

IASTODAY AIM 2025 [ Affordable Integrated Marathon from prelims to interview ]

PRELIMS 90 DAYS 2024 by IASTODAY

IAS DAILY ANSWER REVIEW (Beginner) 2025 by IASTODAY

IASTODAY MASTER PLUS 2025 -Flagship course for mains 2025

BEST ESSAY TEST SERIES 2024- UPSC IAS [Batch 3]

IASTODAY PREMIUM 2025-Course with Prelims to interview features

Normal seats are now filled . Serious aspirants may use option below to request special entry to this course

IASTODAY OPTIONAL SUBJECT DAILY WRITING & TEST SERIES 2024 [All subjects]

Don't be selfish..share with friends..sharing is caring..

[Download] UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination 2020 | Essay Question Paper 2020

PYQ Discussion 2024 Batch-1, An opportunity to revise 2011-2023 PYQ’s, Batch Starts 24th April 2024 Click Here   for more information

Dear Friends,

On the very first day of the UPSC/Civil Services Mains 2020 exam, Essay paper has been conducted, as per the schedule.

To download the UPSC Essay Paper 2020, Click on the link given below:

ESSAY PAPER: UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination – 2020

SECTION – A

• Life is long journey between human being and being humane.
• Mindful manifesto is the catalyst to a tranquil self
• Ships do not sink because of water around them, ships sink because of water that gets into them
• Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.

SECTION – B

• Culture is what we are, civilization is what we have.
• There can be no social justice without economic prosperity but economic prosperity without social justice is meaningless.
• Patriarchy is the least noticed yet the most significant structure of social inequality.
• Technology as the silent factor in international relations.

UPSC Mains 2020 Essay Question Paper

Upcoming Exam Schedule:

Following are the exams that will be conducted on the upcoming days, under UPSC Mains Examination for the year 2020:

Previous Year UPSC Mains Papers

Type your email…

Search Articles

Latest articles.

• [Download] New and Improved 9 PM UPSC Weekly Compilation – April 2024 – 1st week
• 10 PM Daily UPSC Current Affairs 14th April – 2024 | Revision Test
• UPSC Prelims Marathon 14th April – Revision – 2024
• Download EPIC! March 2024 – The Monthly Current Affairs Magazine by ForumIAS
• 10 PM UPSC Current Affairs Quiz 13 April, 2024
• 9 PM UPSC Current Affairs Articles 13 April, 2024
• Potential impacts of AI: The future of work in the Al era
• Concerns related to India’s interest rates: Last-mile transmission a big hurdle to policy rate cut
• Current state of global coal power – problem with coal
• Solutions for job creation: India’s missing jobs

Prelims 2024 Current Affairs

• Art and Culture
• Indian Economy
• Science and Technology
• Environment  & Ecology
• International Relations
• Polity &  Nation
• Important Bills and Acts
• International Organizations
• Index, Reports and Summits
• Government Schemes and Programs
• Miscellaneous
• Species in news

• Skip to main content

Search form

संघ लोक सेवा आयोग union public service commission.

• Active Examinations
• Forthcoming Examinations
• Previous Question Papers
• Cut-off Marks
• Answer Keys
• Marks Information
• Public Disclosure of marks & other details of non-recommended willing candidates
• Specimen Question Cum Answer Booklet (QCAB)
• Common mistakes committed by the candidates in Conventional Papers
• Revised Syllabus and Scheme
• Representation on Question Papers

Previous Year Question Papers

View Archives >>

• Visitor No:663582411

(Since: 15 Sep 2016)

[email protected]

• Our Centers Delhi Bhubaneswar Lucknow

FREE RESOURCES

• UPSC Previous Year Papers

UPSC Previous Year Papers: 2020

UPSC Mains 2019 Paper Discussions:

Significance of UPSC Previous Year Paper

Understanding exam pattern : By going through the previous year's papers, aspirants can understand the exam pattern, question format, and the distribution of marks for different topics. This knowledge helps them tailor their preparation strategy accordingly.

Identifying important topics : Analyzing previous year papers helps candidates identify the recurring themes and important topics that have been frequently asked in the exam. It allows them to prioritize their study areas and focus on high-yield topics.

Practicing time management : Solving previous year papers under timed conditions simulates the actual exam environment and helps aspirants practice time management. This is crucial as the UPSC CSE is known for its lengthy papers and requires candidates to answer a large number of questions in a limited time.

Assessing readiness and performance : Attempting previous year papers allows candidates to assess their preparation level and performance. It helps them identify their strengths and weaknesses, enabling them to work on areas that need improvement.

Enhancing problem-solving skills : The UPSC questions often require critical thinking and analytical skills to answer. Regular practice with previous year papers hones the problem-solving abilities of aspirants and prepares them for the challenging questions in the actual exam.

Gaining familiarity with question types : Going through past papers exposes candidates to a variety of question types, including objective, subjective, and case-study based questions. This familiarity can boost their confidence and reduce anxiety during the actual exam.

Learning from mistakes : Attempting previous year papers allows candidates to learn from their mistakes and avoid repeating them in the actual exam. It is an essential part of the learning process and helps in continuous improvement.

Staying updated with current trends : By analyzing recent UPSC papers, candidates can stay updated with the current trends in the examination, such as the focus on specific topics, changing question patterns, and evolving demands of the syllabus.

Revision and reinforcement : Revisiting previous year papers aids in reinforcing the concepts and information studied during preparation. It helps candidates consolidate their learning and retain the knowledge better.

Boosting confidence : Scoring well in previous year papers gives candidates a sense of confidence and motivation to perform well in the actual exam. It instills belief in their preparation and increases their chances of success.

GS SCORE brings you all GS UPSC previous year questions essential for the examination all in one place for free to help you save time and focus on the preparation rather than going on a paper-finding mission. The UPSC previous year questions have also been segregated year-wise to make it easy for IAS aspirants.

• UPSC IAS Prelims 2020 Question Paper (GS -1) Download
• UPSC IAS Prelims 2020 Question Paper GS 2 (CSAT) Download
• UPSC IAS Mains 2020 General Studies (Paper – 1) Download
• UPSC IAS Mains 2020 General Studies (Paper – 2) Download
• UPSC IAS Mains 2020 General Studies (Paper – 3) Download
• UPSC IAS Mains 2020 General Studies (Paper – 4) Download
• UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination – 2020: ESSAY Paper Download

UPSC Previous Year Papers:

For more info, follow the table given below

Verifying, please be patient.

Our Centers

DELHI (Karol Bagh)

GS SCORE, 1B, Second Floor, Pusa Road, Karol Bagh, New Delhi - 110005 (Beside Karol Bagh Metro Station Gate No. 8)

Get directions on Google Maps

BHUBANESWAR (Jaydev Vihar)

GS SCORE, Plot No.2298, Jaydev Vihar Square, Near HCG Day Care, BBSR - 751013

LUCKNOW (Aliganj)

GS SCORE, 2nd Floor, B-33, Sangam Chauraha, Sector H, Aliganj, Lucknow, UP - 226024

© 2024 IAS SCORE. All Rights Reserved

Welcome to our secure login portal. Access your account with ease.

• Using Password

Not registered yet? register here!

Welcome to our secure register portal. For a brighter future, register now and unlock endless learning opportunities.

User Register

Already have an account? Login

Oops, forgot your password? Don't worry, we've got you covered. Reset it here

Lost your login details? No problem! forgot your password in just a few clicks

Forgot Password

Verify your mobile number, you have successfully logged in.

Join Us on WhatsApp

• IAS Preparation
• UPSC Preparation Strategy
• UPSC Mains 2021 Essay Question Paper

UPSC Mains 2021 Essay Question Paper - Download PDF

The UPSC Mains 2021 was conducted on 7th, 8th, 9th, 15th and 16th January 2022. The Essay paper has been conducted on 7th January 2022 in the forenoon session (9 AM to 12 PM). 

The Mains (Written) Examination consists of nine papers in total. The first stage, that is, Prelims, was conducted on October 10, 2021. 

UPSC Mains 2021 Essay Question Paper:- Download PDF Here

Download compulsory language papers from the links below:

• UPSC Mains 2021 Indian Language Paper PDF
• UPSC Mains 2021 English Language Paper PDF

To download all question papers of UPSC Mains 2021 from the linked article. 

UPSC 2021 Mains Essay Question Paper PDF

In the UPSC Essay paper, there are two sections, namely Section A and Section B. Each section consists of four questions. The aspirants have to choose one topic from each section and in total have to answer 2 essay questions. Each essay question has to be answered with a word limit ranging from 1000-1200 words. One essay question has been awarded 125 marks and the total marks allotted to the essay paper is 250 marks. This paper is counted for merit ranking. 

The Essay Topics asked in the UPSC Mains 2021 are given below:

• The process of self-discovery has now been technologically outsourced.
• Your perception of me is a reflection of you; my reaction to you is an awareness of me.
• Philosophy of wantlessness is Utopian, while materialism is a chimera.
• The real is rational and the rational is real.
• Hand that rocks the cradle rules the world.
• What is research, but a blind date with knowledge!
• History repeats itself, first as a tragedy, second as a farce.
• There are better practices to ‘best practices’.

Some of the useful links for the candidates to prepare for an essay paper are as follows:

The candidates may be required to write essays on multiple topics. While answering the essay questions, the aspirants are expected to keep closely to the subject of the essay to arrange their ideas in an orderly manner and to write concisely. It is important to remember that credit will be given for effective and exact expression.

To download the question paper PDFs of General Studies papers, the aspirants can check the links below:

The candidates can also download the question paper PDFs of UPSC Mains 2021 Optional Paper from the linked article. 

UPSC Mains 2021 Essay Paper:- Download PDF Here

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Your Mobile number and Email id will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Request OTP on Voice Call

Post My Comment

IAS 2024 - Your dream can come true!

Download the ultimate guide to upsc cse preparation.

• Share Share

Register with BYJU'S & Download Free PDFs

Register with byju's & watch live videos.

Call us @ 08069405205

Search Here

• An Introduction to the CSE Exam
• Personality Test
• Annual Calendar by UPSC-2024
• Common Myths about the Exam
• About Insights IAS
• Our Mission, Vision & Values
• Director's Desk
• Meet Our Team
• Our Branches
• Careers at Insights IAS
• Daily Current Affairs+PIB Summary
• Insights into Editorials
• Insta Revision Modules for Prelims
• Current Affairs Quiz
• Static Quiz
• Current Affairs RTM
• Insta-DART(CSAT)
• Insta 75 Days Revision Tests for Prelims 2024
• Secure (Mains Answer writing)
• Secure Synopsis
• Ethics Case Studies
• Insta Ethics
• Weekly Essay Challenge
• Insta Revision Modules-Mains
• Insta 75 Days Revision Tests for Mains
• Secure (Archive)
• Anthropology
• Law Optional
• Kannada Literature
• Public Administration
• English Literature
• Medical Science
• Mathematics
• Commerce & Accountancy
• Monthly Magazine: CURRENT AFFAIRS 30
• Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)
• InstaMaps: Important Places in News
• Weekly CA Magazine
• The PRIME Magazine
• Insta Revision Modules-Prelims
• Insta-DART(CSAT) Quiz
• Insta 75 days Revision Tests for Prelims 2022
• Insights SECURE(Mains Answer Writing)
• Interview Transcripts
• Previous Years' Question Papers-Prelims
• Answer Keys for Prelims PYQs
• Solve Prelims PYQs
• Previous Years' Question Papers-Mains
• UPSC CSE Syllabus
• Toppers from Insights IAS
• Testimonials
• Felicitation
• UPSC Results
• Indian Heritage & Culture
• Ancient Indian History
• Medieval Indian History
• Modern Indian History
• World History
• World Geography
• Indian Geography
• Indian Society
• Social Justice
• International Relations
• Agriculture
• Environment & Ecology
• Disaster Management
• Science & Technology
• Security Issues
• Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude

• Indian Heritage & Culture
• Enivornment & Ecology

Define nanotechnology. Discuss its wide-ranging applications across sectors.

Topic: Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, robotics, Nano-technology, biotechnology and issues relating to intellectual property rights.

4. Define nanotechnology. Discuss its wide-ranging applications across sectors. (150 words)

Difficulty level: Easy

Reference: Insights on India

Why the question: Why the question: The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 3 and mentioned as part of Mission-2024 Secure timetable. Key Demand of the question: To write about applications of nano technology for the betterment of the society. Directive word:  Discuss – This is an all-encompassing directive – you must debate on paper by going through the details of the issues concerned by examining each one of them. You must give reasons for both for and against arguments. Structure of the answer: Introduction:  Begin by defining nanotechnology. Body: First, write about the applications of nanotechnology – The applications of nanotechnology, commonly incorporate industrial, medicinal, and energy uses. These include more durable construction materials, therapeutic drug delivery, and higher density hydrogen fuel cells that are environmentally friendly. Next, write about how these will help in our developmental objectives and our society, Conclusion: Conclude by summarising.

• Our Mission, Vision & Values
• Director’s Desk
• Commerce & Accountancy
• Previous Years’ Question Papers-Prelims
• Previous Years’ Question Papers-Mains
• Environment & Ecology
• Science & Technology