UPSC Essay Paper 2022 (Main Exam)
Here, you will get the Model Answer to the Essay Questions asked in the UPSC Civil Services Main Examination 2022.
Section A
- Forests are the best case studies for economic excellence
- Poets are the unacknowledged legislators of the world
- History is a series of victories won by the scientific man over the romantic man
- A ship in the harbor is safe, but that is not what the ship is for
Section B
- The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining
- You cannot step twice in the same river
- A smile is the chosen vehicle for all ambiguities
- Just because you have a choice, it does not mean that any of them has to be right
Solution: UPSC Essay Paper 2022
Section A
- Forests are the best-case studies for economic excellence
Forests are some of the most diverse and complex ecosystems on Earth, and they are also prime examples of economic excellence. Forests provide a wide range of goods and services that are essential for human well-being, from basic needs like food and shelter to more complex products like medicine and recreation. Additionally, forests play a critical role in maintaining the ecological balance of the planet by regulating the Earth’s climate, protecting biodiversity, and preserving soil and water resources.
One of the most important services that forests provide is carbon sequestration, which is the process by which trees and other plants absorb and store carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Carbon sequestration is essential for mitigating the effects of climate change, as it helps to reduce the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere and slow the rate of global warming. Additionally, forests play a critical role in regulating the Earth’s water cycle, by absorbing and releasing water, preventing soil erosion, and protecting against flooding.
Forests are also a major source of food and medicine for people all over the world. Many traditional and indigenous communities rely on forests for their livelihoods, and for these communities, forests are an essential economic resource. Forests provide a wide range of non-timber products, including fruits, nuts, wild game, and medicinal plants, which are used for food, medicine, and other purposes.
Moreover, forests also provide a habitat for many species of wildlife, which are an important source of food for many communities, and also provide an important source of income for many people through hunting and fishing.
Forests also play an important role in the tourism industry. Many people visit forests for recreational activities such as hiking, camping, and bird-watching, and these activities can provide a significant source of income for local communities. Additionally, many forests are protected as national parks, and the revenue generated by these protected areas can be used to support conservation efforts and community development.
In addition to these benefits, forests also play a key role in education and research. Many universities and research institutions conduct research in forests, studying the complex interactions between plants and animals, and how these interactions are affected by human activities. This research can provide valuable insights into how to manage forests more sustainably, and it can also help to educate future generations about the importance of forests and the role they play in maintaining the ecological balance of the planet.
In conclusion, forests are a prime example of economic excellence. They provide a wide range of goods and services that are essential for human well-being, from basic needs like food and shelter to more complex products like medicine and recreation. Additionally, forests play a critical role in maintaining the ecological balance of the planet by regulating the Earth’s climate, protecting biodiversity, and preserving soil and water resources. Therefore, it is essential that we work to protect and manage forests sustainably so that we can continue to enjoy these benefits for generations to come.
2. Poets are the unacknowledged legislators of the world
The quote “Poets are the unacknowledged legislators of the world” is attributed to Percy Bysshe Shelley, a famous English poet, and philosopher of the 19th century. The quote highlights the idea that poets, through their works, have the power to shape the minds and hearts of people, and thus, have a significant impact on society. This impact is often not acknowledged or recognized by society, yet it is just as important as that of politicians and lawmakers.
Poetry, as an art form, has the power to evoke emotions and inspire people to think and see the world differently. Poets have the ability to take complex ideas and emotions and express them in a way that is relatable and understandable to a wide audience. Through their words, poets can challenge societal norms and beliefs, sparking change and progress. For example, the works of abolitionist poets such as Frederick Douglass and Harriet Tubman helped to raise awareness about the injustice of slavery and played a crucial role in the abolitionist movement. Similarly, the works of poets such as Maya Angelou and Langston Hughes helped to raise awareness about the Civil Rights movement and the struggles of African Americans. Indian poets like Munshi Premchandra expressed the plight of depressed classes in Indian society.
Poets also have the ability to give voice to the marginalized and the oppressed. They can provide a platform for people who are often ignored by mainstream society, and give them a chance to share their stories and experiences. Poetry can be a powerful tool for social and political change, as it has the ability to connect people across borders, cultures, and languages.
Furthermore, poetry can also serve as a reflection of society, capturing the spirit of an era and the attitudes of a culture. Poets can provide insight into the social and cultural issues of their time, and their works can serve as a historical record of the past. It is through poetry that we can gain a deeper understanding of how people lived, thought, and felt in the past, which is an essential aspect of understanding the present.
In addition to its social and political impact, poetry also has an important role in personal and individual development. Poetry can provide a way for people to express their feelings and emotions, and it can be a source of comfort and healing. Poetry can also serve as a means of self-discovery and introspection, helping people to understand themselves and their place in the world.
In conclusion, the quote “Poets are the unacknowledged legislators of the world” highlights the idea that poets, through their works, have the power to shape the minds and hearts of people and have a significant impact on society. Poetry has the ability to evoke emotions, inspire change and progress, give voice to the marginalized and oppressed, serve as a reflection of society, and aid personal and individual development. Poets, through their works, have the ability to connect people across borders, cultures, and languages, and can provide a deeper understanding of the past. Therefore, it is important to acknowledge and appreciate the role that poets play in shaping our world.
3. History is a series of victories won by the scientific man over the romantic man.
The statement “history is a series of victories won by the scientific man over the romantic man” suggests that throughout history, individuals and societies have been engaged in a continuous struggle between rationality and emotion, and that scientific thinking has ultimately triumphed over romanticism.
On one hand, the scientific man represents a rational and empirical approach to understanding the world. He relies on facts, evidence, and experimentation to understand the natural world and to solve problems. Scientific thinking has led to many significant advances throughout history, such as the development of medicine, technology, and the industrial revolution.
On the other hand, the romantic man represents a more emotional and subjective approach to understanding the world. He is driven by feelings, imagination, and intuition, and values personal experiences and emotions over reason and logic. Romanticism, which emerged in the 18th century as a cultural and intellectual movement, emphasized the importance of individualism, the beauty of nature, and the value of emotions and intuition in human experience.
Throughout history, the scientific and romantic perspectives have often been in conflict. The scientific approach has often been seen as cold, detached and lacking in meaning, while the romantic approach has been seen as overly emotional and lacking in logic. However, it can be argued that the tension between these two perspectives has led to progress, as each approach has its own strengths and weaknesses.
In some cases, the scientific approach has prevailed over the romantic. For example, in the early 20th century, many artists and intellectuals rejected the romantic idea of the artist as a genius and instead embraced the idea of art as a product of objective, scientific methods. Similarly, in the field of medicine, the scientific approach has led to many breakthroughs in understanding and treating diseases, while the romantic approach has been criticized as unscientific and ineffective.
However, it’s important to note that it’s not always a clear-cut victory for one side over the other. The scientific and romantic perspectives have often been in a dialogue and have influenced each other. For example, the romantic movement was in part a reaction to the Enlightenment’s emphasis on reason and science, and it led to a renewed interest in emotion and intuition. Similarly, the scientific method has been influenced by romanticism, which has helped to incorporate more holistic and humanistic perspectives into scientific research.
In conclusion, the statement “history is a series of victories won by the scientific man over the romantic man” suggests that throughout history, individuals and societies have been engaged in a continuous struggle between rationality and emotion, and that scientific thinking has ultimately triumphed over romanticism. However, it’s important to note that the relationship between these two perspectives is not always clear-cut, and they often influence each other, leading to progress. The tension between these two perspectives can be seen as beneficial as it helps to balance the strengths and weaknesses of each approach.
4. A ship in harbour is safe, but that is not what ship is for
The quote “A ship in harbour is safe, but that is not what ships are for” is often attributed to John A. Shedd, an American author and philosopher. The quote is often used to convey the idea that it is natural and necessary for individuals and organizations to take risks and venture out of their comfort zones in order to achieve their goals and fulfill their potential.
The metaphor of a ship in a harbour represents a state of safety and security. A ship in a harbour is protected from the storms and rough seas of the open ocean. It is a place of refuge where the ship can rest and repair. However, as the quote suggests, a ship’s purpose is not to remain in the harbour but to set sail and explore the vast and unknown waters of the ocean. The ship is built to navigate the seas, not to stay in the safety of the harbour.
Similarly, individuals and organizations have a natural inclination to seek safety and security. We often seek to protect ourselves from the unknown and uncertain. We want to avoid risks and stay within the familiar boundaries of our comfort zones. However, as the quote suggests, this is not the purpose of life. The purpose of life is not to seek safety and security but to explore, to learn, to grow, and to achieve our goals.
The quote also implies that taking risks and venturing out of our comfort zones is not only necessary but also beneficial. By taking risks, we expose ourselves to new experiences and opportunities. We learn and grow from our mistakes and successes. We become more resilient and better equipped to handle future challenges. Additionally, by taking risks, we open ourselves up to new possibilities and opportunities that we may not have otherwise discovered.
However, it’s important to note that taking risks doesn’t mean being reckless or irresponsible. It means being thoughtful and calculated in our approach. It means assessing the risks and rewards, and making a conscious decision to pursue something that we believe is worth the risk. It also means having a plan in place to mitigate any potential negative consequences.
In the context of organizations, taking risks can lead to innovation and progress. Organizations that are willing to take risks are often the ones that push the boundaries and lead the way in their industries. They are the ones that come up with new and creative solutions to problems, and they are the ones that can adapt and evolve in response to changing circumstances.
In conclusion, the quote “A ship in harbour is safe, but that is not what ships are for” is often used to convey the idea that it is natural and necessary for individuals and organizations to take risks and venture out of their comfort zones in order to achieve their goals and fulfil their potential. The metaphor of a ship in a harbour represents a state of safety and security, but a ship’s purpose is not to remain in the harbour but to set sail and explore the vast and unknown waters of the ocean. Similarly, the purpose of life and organizations is not to seek safety and security but to explore, to learn, to grow, and to achieve our goals. It’s important to note that taking risks doesn’t mean being reckless or irresponsible, it means being thoughtful and calculated in our approach.
5. The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining
“The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining” is a popular proverb that carries a valuable lesson. The saying highlights the importance of being proactive and taking advantage of favorable circumstances to address problems before they become severe. In this essay, I will explore the significance of this proverb in different aspects of life and explain why it is essential to take action when conditions are favorable.
The first and foremost significance of this proverb is in personal finances. If one waits for a rainy day to fix a leaky roof, it is likely that the damage will worsen, leading to more significant and expensive repairs. In the same way, if one waits for financial difficulties to save money, it may become challenging to get out of the hole. It is essential to create a budget and start saving money when times are good so that one can be prepared for unexpected expenses. Being proactive with one’s finances will allow an individual to avoid financial difficulties and ensure a comfortable future.
The proverb can also be applied to personal relationships. The time to repair a damaged relationship is when both parties are in a calm and positive mood, not when one party is upset or the other party is distant. When the sun is shining, it is an ideal opportunity to talk things out, understand each other’s perspectives, and come to a resolution. If one waits for a stormy day to address the issue, it may become too late to repair the relationship, and it may result in permanent damage.
In business, the proverb highlights the importance of proactive planning. The time to prepare for a crisis or downturn is when the business is thriving, not when the crisis has already hit. Businesses should take advantage of their success and plan for the future by diversifying their products, expanding their market, and building a solid financial cushion. This way, they will be better equipped to weather any storm that may come their way.
In the same way, governments should take advantage of good times to invest in infrastructure and prepare for challenges that may arise in the future. The time to repair roads, bridges, and other public facilities is when the budget is healthy, not when there is a crisis. By investing in infrastructure, governments can ensure the long-term stability and prosperity of their communities.
Finally, the proverb highlights the importance of taking advantage of opportunities. Life is full of opportunities, and the time to take advantage of them is when they present themselves. Whether it is pursuing a dream job, starting a business, or taking a trip, it is essential to seize the moment and make the most of it. If one waits for the perfect moment, it may never come, and the opportunity may be lost forever.
In conclusion, “The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining” is a proverb that carries a valuable lesson. It highlights the importance of being proactive and taking advantage of favorable circumstances to address problems before they become severe. Whether it is in personal finances, relationships, business, or life in general, it is essential to take action when conditions are favorable. By doing so, one can ensure stability, prosperity, and happiness in the future.
6.You cannot step twice in the same river
“You cannot step twice in the same river” is a quote attributed to the ancient Greek philosopher Heraclitus, who was known for his philosophy of change and impermanence. This quote has been widely interpreted to mean that everything is constantly changing and nothing stays the same, even for a moment. In this essay, I will explore the meaning of this quote and will provide examples to illustrate its significance in different aspects of life.
One of the most obvious examples of the constant change referred to by Heraclitus can be seen in nature. Rivers are constantly flowing, and the water that flows past a particular point at one moment is never the same as the water that flows past that point the next moment. This change can be seen not only in the physical composition of the water but also in its temperature, speed, and direction. This is a clear demonstration of the concept of impermanence, which is the idea that everything is in a state of flux and that nothing remains the same.
Another example of the quote can be seen in the lives of individuals. People are constantly changing, both physically and mentally. Every moment, every experience, and every encounter shapes us, and we are never the same person that we were a moment before. Our thoughts, opinions, beliefs, and emotions are all constantly evolving, and we can never step into the same river of life twice.
In the same way, societies are constantly changing. Cultures, beliefs, and values are constantly evolving, and the world that we live in today is not the same as it was a hundred years ago. Technological advancements, shifting political landscapes, and changing cultural norms are all examples of the constant change that takes place in society.
The concept of change is also evident in the world of business. Companies that do not adapt to changing market conditions and consumer preferences are likely to fail, while those that are agile and able to respond to change will thrive. The same is true for industries, which are constantly evolving and changing to meet the needs of consumers. The rise of new technologies and changing consumer preferences are examples of how industries are constantly changing.
Finally, the quote “You cannot step twice in the same river” highlights the importance of embracing change and being open to new experiences. When we resist change, we become stuck in our ways and miss out on the opportunities that life has to offer. However, when we embrace change, we open ourselves up to new possibilities and experiences that can broaden our perspectives and enrich our lives.
In conclusion, the quote “You cannot step twice in the same river” carries a profound message about the constant change and impermanence that is present in all aspects of life. Whether it is in nature, our personal lives, society, business, or the world around us, everything is in a state of constant flux, and nothing stays the same for long. By embracing change and being open to new experiences, we can live a full and rich life, free from the limitations of resistance and stagnation.
7. A smile is the chosen vehicle for all ambiguities
The statement “A smile is the chosen vehicle for all ambiguities” suggests that a smile can convey multiple meanings and interpretations. It is a universal expression that can have different connotations depending on the context and the person who is smiling. This idea highlights the power of a smile to convey different emotions and sentiments, often simultaneously, and the difficulty in accurately interpreting its intended message.
For example, a smile can convey happiness, joy, friendliness, and a sense of ease. It can also be used as a mask to hide negative emotions such as sadness, anger, or fear. A smile can also be used to signal politeness or as a form of agreement or approval. In some cases, a smile can also be interpreted as insincere or manipulative, depending on the context and the person who is smiling.
The ambiguity of a smile can also lead to miscommunication and confusion in social and professional settings. For example, in a business meeting, a smile may be misinterpreted as agreement when in reality it was simply a sign of politeness. Similarly, in a personal relationship, a smile may be misinterpreted as happiness when it was actually hiding sadness or pain.
In conclusion, the statement “A smile is the chosen vehicle for all ambiguities” highlights the power of a smile to convey multiple meanings and emotions. While a smile can be a powerful tool for building relationships and conveying positive emotions, its ambiguity can also lead to misunderstandings and miscommunication. Understanding the context and the person who is smiling is crucial in accurately interpreting the intended message.
8. Just because you have a choice, it does not mean that any of them has to be right
The statement “Just because you have a choice, it does not mean that any of them has to be right” suggests that having a choice does not guarantee that the decision made will be the correct one. This idea highlights the importance of carefully considering all options and making informed decisions, rather than relying solely on the fact that a choice is available.
One example of this concept can be seen in the world of consumer products. With the rise of technology and globalization, consumers have access to a vast array of products and services, from smartphones to online shopping. While having a choice can be beneficial, it can also be overwhelming, and it is up to the individual to determine which product is the right fit for their needs and preferences.
Similarly, in the realm of politics and policy, individuals and governments often face complex decisions with multiple options. Just because there is a choice, it does not mean that any of the options are the right solution. In these cases, it is important to consider the long-term implications and consequences of each decision, as well as the impact on different groups and stakeholders.
In our personal lives, we are faced with countless choices on a daily basis. From what to eat for breakfast to what career path to pursue, it is easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of options available. However, just because we have a choice, it does not mean that any of the options are the right ones for us. It is important to take the time to reflect on our values, goals, and priorities, and make decisions that align with these things.
The idea that just because you have a choice, it does not mean that any of them has to be right, can also be applied to ethical and moral decisions. In many cases, there may be multiple options, but none of them may be the right or ethical choice. In these situations, it is important to consider the consequences of each decision and make a choice that aligns with our personal values and principles.
In conclusion, the statement “Just because you have a choice, it does not mean that any of them has to be right” highlights the importance of making informed and thoughtful decisions, even when multiple options are available. Having a choice is only the first step; it is up to us to evaluate each option, consider the consequences, and make decisions that align with our values and goals.
How to Solve UPSC Main Essay Paper?
Before answering to the above question, let me ask you a basic question. Why the Essay paper is a part of the UPSC Main Examination? Pause for seconds and think.
Ok, alright….
Lets find the answer together. If you have to judge the personality of a candidate standing in front of you, you have multiple ways to do so. Like how he looks, dressing sense, ways of communications, choice of words, etc. But, imagine you have to judge the person without having an opportunity to meet him. The other way is by analysing his written thought and this is what UPSC is doing through the essay paper.
So, Essay paper is actually a part of personality test something similar to ethics paper. Now, here a one way to score better in Essay Paper.
Step 1: Select the question: Do not jump to start writing within 30 seconds of getting the Essay paper in your hand. Just go thorough all the questions. Choose the best two questions. Here best may differ from candidate to candidate. You should select only those topics where you can comfortably write 1000 words at least. Further, if you are selecting the topic from your optional subject, you have to write like a generalist and like an specialist because the examiner may not be an expert in the same field. You may take 15 minutes here.
Step 2: Brainstorming: Turn the back side of the answer sheet (Rough Work Sheet) and write the topics and subtopics that comes in your mind in bullet points. Feel free and write whatsoever comes in your mind (only headings and subheading). Now, arrange the topics in an structured manner. The structure should be like Introduction, Main body (covering multiple perspectives) and Conclusion. Just give the serial number to the topics written and make sure to club similar topics together. Take 15 minutes here at this stage.
Step 3: Introduction: Write a beautiful introduction on the rough space (not in the answer sheet). Check grammar and ensure that the introduction will have a good impact on the reader. Now its time to start writing the answer. Finish your introduction and inform the examiner what are you going to discuss in the essay? But how? here is the way.
Suppose I am writing an essay about the Impact of recent flood in Delhi. I will write like this:
In this essay we will first discuss the causes of Floods in Delhi, thereafter we will have a glimpse on the socio-economic impacts of the flood and finally we will find out a way to mitigate the effects. Take 10 minutes here.
Step 4: Write with an eye on your watch: Now you have finished the introduction part and you have briefly explained the structure of the essay. Just start taking the topics from the back of your page and elaborate those points and the main body will be completed. Make sure to include contrasting view in the main body. take 30 minutes here.
Step 5: Conclude Positively: Write the conclusion by providing some way forward and futuristic solution. Take 10 minutes here.
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