GS-I · UPSC Mains PYQGeography 2025 15 Marks

Give a geographical explanation of the distribution of off-shore oil reserves of the world. How are they different from the on-shore occurrences of oil reserves?

Microtheme: Energy · Asked in UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination 2025.

Microtheme deep dive

Energy in India: Sources, Security, Transition

India's energy mix, coal, hydrocarbons, nuclear, renewables and just transition — UPSC GS-1 & GS-3 anchor.

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Model Answer Approach

  1. Decode demand: Identify the directive verb (discuss / examine / critically analyse) and bound the scope to Energy.
  2. Intro (40–50 words): Define the core concept; anchor with a definition, data point, or constitutional/historical reference.
  3. Body: 2–3 thematic sub-heads with crisp points, examples and counter-arguments. Add a relevant case study or committee/report.
  4. Conclusion (30–40 words): Forward-looking — recommendations, way forward, or a constitutional/ethical anchor.

Structure Checklist

  • Definition / context in intro
  • Minimum 1 data point or report
  • Multi-dimensional arguments
  • Counter-view / limitations
  • Diagram, flowchart or map (if applicable)
  • Way forward in conclusion

Keywords to Use

geographicalexplanationdistributionreservesdifferentoccurrences
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