GS-II · UPSC Mains PYQInternational Relations 2021 10 Marks
“The USA is facing an existential threat in the form of a China, that is much more challenging than the erstwhile Soviet Union.” Explain.
Microtheme: Miscelleneous · Asked in UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination 2021.
Model Answer Approach
- Decode demand: Identify the directive verb (discuss / examine / critically analyse) and bound the scope to Miscelleneous.
- Intro (40–50 words): Define the core concept; anchor with a definition, data point, or constitutional/historical reference.
- Body: 2–3 thematic sub-heads with crisp points, examples and counter-arguments. Add a relevant case study or committee/report.
- 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
existentialchallengingerstwhileexplain
