Contents
WBCS Main Optional Question Paper – 2023
PAPER – I (Time-3 Hours Full Marks-200)
Answer any five questions, taking at least two from each group.
[Suitable illustrations in answers will be appreciated.]
GROUP-A
1. Distinguish between weathering and mass wasting. Examine the factors and processes of mass wasting. State the postulates and principle of ‘dynamic equilibrium’. 5+10+25=40
2. What is an airmass? Classify it stating your basis. Explain the processes of airmass modification with associated changes in weather conditions. Give the principles of Bjerken’s theory of frontogenesis. 5+15+10+10=40
3. What are the factors influencing the origin of ocean current? Account for the ocean currents in the Atlantic Ocean. How does the T-S diagrams help to identify a water mass? 15+15+10=40
4. Write brief notes on-ecotone, homeostasis, ecological niche, and ecological pyramids. What is a biogeochemical cycle? Briefly discuss the ‘nitrogen cycle’ with a diagram. (5×4)+5+15=40
5. Define and classify ‘map projections’ stating the basis. Explain the terms-principal and real scale, loxodrome and standard parallel, constant of a cone. What are thematic maps, and what are their different types? 10+10×2)+10=40
GROUP-B
6. Account for the salient features of intensive subsistence farming in monsoon Asia. Critically discuss Von Thunen’s model of agricultural landuse with present day relevance. 20+20=40
7. Examine the factors and measures of population growth. Discuss the patterns and trends of growth of the world population with annotated diagrams. 20+20=40
8. Write brief notes on-absolute and relative space, boundaries and frontiers, nation and state. Give a critical appraisal of ‘Heartland Theory’. (8×3)+16=40
9. Distinguish between rural and urban settlements. Account for the types and patterns of rural settlements over the Upper, Middle and Lowe Ganga plains. Critically discuss the mode of urban growth after Burgess. 8+12+20=40
10. Discuss the concept and types of ‘region’. Briefly write the principles and methods of ‘regionalization’. Give the basis of the ‘Growth Pole Theory’ after Perroux. 10+20+10=40
PAPER – II (Time-3 Hours Full Marks-200)
GROUP-A
Answer question 1 and any two from the rest.
[Suitable illustrations in answers will be appreciated.]
- Divide India into tectonic divisions, and describe the structure and relief of the Peninsular Plateau. What are syntaxial bends? Briefly describe the Himalayan Drainage Reversal after Pilgrim (1918). (5+10)+5+20=40
- What are the different forms of iron ore found in India? Give an account of its distribution, and trend of production. Elaborate on the role it played in determining the location of the iron and steel industry in India. 5+15+10=30
- Give the name and characteristics of Indian agriculture. What is the green revolution? In what ways did it transform the Indian economy? 10+5+15=30
- Enumerate the locational dynamics, growth and development of the sugar industry in India since independence. Give the problems and prospects of the aluminium industry in India. 20+10
- Give the characteristics, patterns, factors, and processes of Indian urbanization. Account for the statewise distribution of crude sex ratio in India. 20+10=30
GROUP-B
(Answer Question 6 and any two from the rest.)
[Suitable illustrations in answers will be appreciated.]
6. Divide West Bengal into physiographic divisions, and give the salient features of each. Write an account of the seasonal weather conditions experienced in West Bengal. 20+20=40
7. Give the location and geographic personality of West Bengal as a state. Write about the characteristics of the soils of the Rarh and Barind regions and relevance. 15+15=30
8. Examine the ecological conditions of growth, cultivation, production, problems, and prospects of rice in West Bengal. What are the impacts of the green revolution on rice cultivation in West Bengal? (5+5+5+5+5)+5=30
9. Describe the occurrences, mining, production, problems, and prospects of coal resources in West Bengal. Give the development and trend of non-conventional energy resources in this state. (5+5+5+5+5)+5=30
10. Discuss the trend of growth and pattern of distribution of population in West Bengal. Distinguish between the crude, physiological, and habitational density of the population in the state. 20+10=30
WBCS Main Optional Question Paper – 2022
PAPER – I (Time-3 Hours Full Marks-200)
Answer any five questions, taking at least two from each group.
[Suitable illustrations in answers will be appreciated.]
GROUP-A
- Explain the formation and evolution of a Karst landscape. Provide examples of such landscapes and enumerate the factors contributing to their development. 20+5+15
2. How do the jet stream and El Nino influence the monsoon patterns around the world? How are the international efforts and agreements addressing the impacts of climate change on a global change? 20+20
3. Explain the major theories of formation of Coral-Reefs. Discuss the physical properties of ocean water. 20+20
4. Discuss with examples the principles and components of ecosystem. Give descriptions of the different ecological pyramids. 20+20
5. Enlist the key steps using a Dumpy Level instrument for setting up effectively in field-survey. Discuss the properties and applicability of Cylindrical Projection. 20+20
GROUP-B
6. Specify the differences between plantation farming in tropics and intensive-subsistence farming in monsoon lands. Discuss the relevance and applicability of Von-Thunen’s Land-use model in modern context. 20+20
7. How does India’s demographic position relate to the Demographic Transition Theory? Illustrate with specific examples the types and consequences of migration in any country. 20+20
8. Evaluate the Heartland Theory as propounded by Mackinder. What is the relationship between social ecology and social space and also provide examples related to it. 20+20
9. Distinguish between the characteristics of rural and urban settlements. Discuss the basic tenets of Harris and Ullman’s model of urban growth. 20+20
10. Enumerate the tenets and relevance of Growth Pole Theory of Perroux with examples. Mention the characteristics of different levels of planning on the basis of sustainable development. 20+20
PAPER – II (Time-3 Hours Full Marks-200)
GROUP-A
Answer question 1 and any two from the rest.
- How has India’s geologic structure and relief features played role in shaping the country’s major river networks? The natural vegetation in the Himalayas ranges from tropical to Tundra type of vegetation. Provide reasons in support of this statement. 20+20
2. Discuss the factors influencing soil formation. Also mention the causes and measures of soil erosion and salinization in India. Enumerate the major challenges associated with continued reliance on conventional sources of energy in India. 15+10+5
3. Describe the physiographic factors which have influenced the pattern of roads and railway networks in India. Support your answer with examples from different parts of India. Why are mineral-based industries mainly concentrated in Chotanagpur Plateau region? Give reasons. 20+10
4. Bring out the regional variations in the population distribution and density at the national level. Analyse the challenges and opportunities posed by the increasing urbanisation in India. How does the country address issues such as urban sprawl, inadequate housing and environmental sustainability amidst the growing demand for urban services and amenities? 15+10+5
5. How does India’s geographical location influence its trade and diplomatic relations with SAARC countries? Discuss the success and challenges of Green Revolution in India’s agricultural sector. 15+15
GROUP-B
(Answer Question 6 and any two from the rest.)
6. Analyse the relationship between the relief features and the regional climatic patterns of West Bengal. Discuss the government initiatives on afforestation and forest management in the Himalayan foothills of Darjeeling District to protect the fragile bio-diversity and ensure sustainable resource utilization in this region of West Bengal. 20+20
7. Evaluate the significance of organic farming practices in West Bengal for the reduction of soil degradation. Mention the governmental measures for water conservation in West Bengal. 15+15
8. Discuss the factors that contribute to the suitability for Tea cultivation in West Bengal. Also mention the measures taken to ensure sustainable growth and global competitiveness. 20+10
9. What are the key challenges faced by industrial regions in West Bengal? Discuss the major schemes of improved transport connectivity of urbanised centres of West Bengal. 20+10
10. Analyse the recent trends in literacy rates in West Bengal. Mention the role of educational schemes to address the population-related challenges in West Bengal. 20+10
WBCS Main Optional Question Paper – 2021
PAPER – I (Time-3 Hours Full Marks-200)
Answer any five questions, taking at least two from each group.
[Suitable illustrations in answers will be appreciated.]
GROUP-A
- Examine the various processes involved in chemical weathering. Indicate their role in bringing about topographic changes. Discuss the differences between ‘cyclic’ and ‘non-cyclic’ concepts of landform evolution. 10+10+20=40
2. Discuss the basis of classification of world climate after Koppen. Comment on the merits and demerits of this classification. What is the importance of the ozone layer? Explain the processes of its formation and depletion. 10+10+5+15=40
3. Give a detailed account of the Mid Oceanic Ridge System. What are the major solutes in sea water? Explain the characteristics of biogenous ocean sediments. 15+10+15=40
4. Explain biogeochemical cycle with the help of nitrogen cycle as an example. Analyse the impact of deforestation on the slopes of semi-arid area and on mangrove-covered delta region. 20+20=40
5. What are the principle, properties and uses of polar zenithal projections? Discuss in detail how the electromagnetic radiation (EMR) interacts with the atmosphere. How can RS and GIS be used for hazard management? 20+10+10=40
GROUP-B
6. Elucidate the major characteristics of intensive subsistence agriculture focussing on the physical and cultural elements, crop pattern and farm layout. Examine the role of physical and economic factors in the development of commercial fishing with particular reference to their areas of concentration. 20+20=40
7. Discuss the factors that determine the population density of a region. How does literacy affect the birth rate of a country? What do you mean by ‘population composition’? 20+15+5=40
8. Explain the social process of adaptation and assimilation with examples. How are the tribes vulnerable to social discrimination? Differentiate frontiers from boundaries. 15+15+10=40
9. Critically analyse the theory of urban growth as put forward by Homar Hoyte. What is meant by the term “urban hierarchy”? State the assumptions on the basis of which Christaller formulated the “Central Place Theory.” 20+5+15=40
10. Elaborate the concept of region. Distinguish between formal and functional region. Explain the characteristics of “State” as a planning region. 10+10+20=40
PAPER – II (Time-3 Hours Full Marks-200)
GROUP-A
Answer question 1 and any two from the rest.
- Give a detailed account of the Climate of India. Explain the impact of climatic change on the Indian Economy. 25+15=40
- Discuss the various measures taken up for the development of agriculture in India during the plan periods. Bring out the relationship between green revolution and food self-sufficiency in India. 20+10=30
- Divide India into Railway zones. Explain the importance of each zone with particular reference to resource use. 10+20=30
- Give an account of the growth of urban population in India since Independence highlighting on metropolitan growth. Enumerate the measures taken by Government of India for development of urban areas. 20+10=30
- Give an account of the non-conventional sources of energy used in India. Discuss their future prospects. 20+10=30
GROUP-B
(Answer Question 6 and any two from the rest.)
6. Give a reasoned account of the growth and distribution of population in West Bengal with suitable sketches. Discuss the measures taken for the development of marginalized sections of population in West Bengal. 30+10=40
7. Account for the growth and development of Jute Textile Industry in West Bengal. Discuss the major problems faced by this industry and measures taken to mitigate them.15+15=30
8. Bring out the differences in the drainage pattern between the rivers of North and South West Bengal. Discuss the major causes of floods in West Bengal. 20+10=30
9. Bring out the pattern of Urbanisation in West Bengal with suitable examples. Account for the sudden increase in census towns in West Bengal in 2011 census. What measures have been taken for the development of small towns in West Bengal? 10+10+10=30
10. Bring out the significance of the strategic position of West Bengal with its neighbouring countries Highlight on the West Bengal-Bangladesh border enclaves and their problems. 15+15=30
WBCS Main Optional Question Paper – 2020
PAPER – I (Time-3 Hours Full Marks-200)
Answer any five questions, taking at least two from each group.
[Suitable illustrations in answers will be appreciated.]
GROUP-A
- Examine critically the concept of Isostasy as put forward by Sir G.B. Airy and A. Pratt. Classify earth movements and mention the resultant landforms in brief. 25+15
- Account for the increase of greenhouse gases and discuss its impact. Make a comparison between the origin and characteristics of tropical and mid-latitude cyclones. 25+15
- Classify natural hazard and explain in detail it’s reduction and management. Correlate population and environmental quality. 30+10
- Discuss the fundamental concept of GIS (Geographical Information System) with particular reference to the use of RS (Remote Sensing) data in GIS. Distinguish between a Satellite with a Geo-stationary orbit and a Satellite with a Sun-synchronous orbit. 30+10
- Classify ocean deposits on the basis of origin, elements and location. What are the factors influencing the distribution of temperature and salinity of ocean water? 25+15
GROUP-B
6. Analyse critically the economic growth model propounded by Gunner Myrdal. What are the drawbacks of Weberian Model of industrial location in the contemporary world of globalization? 30+10
7. Discuss how Malthusian theory of population growth differs from the Marxist concept of population growth and its control. How does the age structure affect the growth of population? 30+10
8. Evaluate the concept of space in Geography. Discuss with examples how social processes affect social behaviour. 20+20
9. Explain the evolution and hierarchy of urban settlement. Classify urban settlements based on its functions. 20+20
10. How agricultural development can be related with the regional development? Explain the issue with the help of rural development programmes in India. Distinguish between formal and functional regions. 30+10
PAPER – II (Time-3 Hours Full Marks-200)
GROUP-A
Answer question 1 and any two from the rest.
- Divide India into physiographic regions and justify the bases of your regionalization. Describe in detail the structure of the Western Himalayas with particular reference to its impact on relief. Support your answer with suitable sketches. What is the significance of the Main Boundary Fault? 10+(20+5)+5=40
- What is meant by Ramsar site? Assess the ecological importance of major wetlands in India. On what consideration the Damodar Valley Corporation was selected by the Govt. Of India as the first major multipurpose project? Analyze the performance of DVC in flood control. 3+7+8+12=30
- Discuss the influence of climate on the distribution of natural vegetation in India. Make a critical analysis of the success and failures of Social Forestry as a tool for sustainable forest management in India. 20+10=30
- Account for the location of cotton textile industry in India. What are the future prospects of this industry in the country? Discuss the economic significance of Chotanagpur Plateau. 15+5+10=30
- Give a reasoned geographical account of the varying density of population in India (2011). Analyze the salient features of the National Population Policy, 2011. 20+10=30
GROUP-B
(Answer Question 6 and any two from the rest.)
6. Attempt an agro-climatic regionalization of West Bengal and discuss the salient features of each region. Analyze the causes of spatial variation of agricultural productivity in the state. Mention the role of contract farming in the region. 20+15+5=40
7. Divide deltaic West Bengal into suitable geomorphic units and discuss their essential features. Evaluate the role of Farakka Barrage in ameliorating the problem of siltation in Kolkata Port. 20+10=30
8. Critically analyze how reclamation affected the physical characteristics of the Sundarbans. What is the significance of the Man and Biosphere programme in conversation and management of biodiversity in the Sundarbans? 20+10=30
9. Elucidate the major problems of industrialization in West Bengal in the last two decades. In what way the development of SEZ and the thrust on small and medium enterprises (SME’s) can influence the emerging industrial scenario of the state? 10+20=30
10. Account for the structure and composition of population in West Bengal. Highlight on the Government Schemes implemented to solve the problem of gender bias in literacy. 20+10=30
WBCS Main Optional Question Paper – 2019
PAPER – I (Time-3 Hours Full Marks-200)
Answer any five questions, taking at least two from each group.
[Suitable illustrations in answers will be appreciated.]
GROUP-A
- Compare the characteristics of boreal and temperate forest ecosystem. State how cybernetics helps in the process of homeostasis. Mention how overgrazing causes degradation of land resources. 20+10+10=40
- Discuss the fundamental common properties of Polar Zenithal projections. Classify maps according to scale and purpose. What is vector data structure? 20+12+8=40
- Mention the different conditions that are favourable for the growth of coral reefs. Account for the surface ocean currents of the Atlantic ocean with illustrations. 26+14=40
- Discuss the theory of Isostasy as put forwarded by Sir George Airy. Illustrate the fundamental concept of ‘The same physical processes and laws that are operate today operated through out geological time, although not necessarily always with the same intensity as now’. Mention the basis of Davisian model of ‘Geographical Cycle’. 22+12+6=40
- Explain the conditions required for the formation of tropical cyclones. State how airmass modifications take place by thermodynamic processes. What is Hadley cell? 20+12+8=40
GROUP-B
6. Critically illustrate Rimland theory as put forwarded by Spykman. Distinguish between absolute and relative space. 28+12=40
7. Describe the characteristics of extensive commercial farming in temperate lands. Mention the major problems of hydel power generation in India. Distinguish between tangible and non tangible resources. 22+10+8=40
8. Illustrate ‘multiple nuclei’ model of urban growth. Discuss the characteristics of CBD. What is primate city? 22+12+6=40
9. Explain the factors that influence migration of population. Discuss the importance of sex-ratio for population analysis and development of a country. 24+16=40
10. Briefly discuss the Growth Pole Theory of Perroux. Classify planning regions on the basis of regional hierarchy. 28+12=40
PAPER – II (Time-3 Hours Full Marks-200)
GROUP-A
Answer question 1 and any two from the rest.
- Discuss the significance of location of India on her physical environment. In spite of moderately high rainfall why is the country facing water crisis in her various parts? How can the ‘demographic dividends’ of India achievable in the near future? 20+10+10=40
- Attempt a regional classification of natural vegetation of India and discuss the major characteristics features associated with them. Bring out the reasons for degeneration of the rivers of India. What are the major afforestation programmes taken up in the country? 15+10+5=30
- Give an account of the geographical distribution of the principle non-conventional energy sources of India. How are the major biotic resources of the country being utilized at present? 20+10=30
- Asses the problems associated with tea cultivation in India. Evaluate the trends of automobile industry in the country. What is the current state of air transportation within India? 15+10+5=30
- Discuss the pattern of urbanization and associated environmental issues in the post-liberalization period in India. Highlight the nature of labour mobility within the country in the present century. 20+10=30
GROUP-B
(Answer Question 6 and any two from the rest.)
6. What is the geographical distinctiveness of West Bengal? Why are six seasons normally experienced in most parts of it? Write the geographical distribution and salient features of the major agro-climatic regions of the state. 10+10+20=40
7. Review the utilization and conservation of water resources of West Bengal. Assess the problems pertaining to utilization of land resources of the state. 20+10=30
8. Discuss the trends of food crop cultivation in West Bengal in the present century. Examine its impact on the economy of the state. 20+10=30
9. Elaborate the nature of industrial development in West Bengal since 1990. Elucidate the factors behind such development. 20+10=30
10. Discuss the trends of occupational structure of population of West Bengal in the post-independence period. What are its geographical implications within the state? 20+10=30
WBCS Main Optional Question Paper – 2018
PAPER – I (Time-3 Hours Full Marks-200)
Answer any five questions, taking at least two from each group.
[Suitable illustrations in answers will be appreciated.]
GROUP-A
- Critically evaluate Penck’s view of ” Cycle of Erosion “. How does it differ from Davisian ” Cycle of Erosion? 28+12
2. Describe the various types of land forms developed on Igneous rock with suitable examples. Critically discuss the theory of Seafloor spreading. 20+20
3. Mention the theories related to the origin of Indian Monsoon emphasizing the role of Jet stream. Explain the phenomenon of Ozone depletion and its Consequences. 22+18
4. Explain the characteristics of Tropical-rainforest biome with special emphasis on the biodiversity of this region. Mention the major Consequences of deforestation. 28+12
5. Classify Map projections on the basis of their properties. Discuss the fundamental properties and principles of Mercator’s projection. State the reasons why this projection is used for navigational purpose. 8+20+12
GROUP-B
6. Define ‘Urban morphology’. Illustrate at least two models of Urban land use with suitable examples. What is meant by “occupational structure”. 10+24+6
7. Critically discuss Von-Thunen’s model of agricultural land use. State how far it is relevant in the present day society. Mention the physical and cultural factors responsible for the development of dairy farming in temperate land. 14+8+18
8. Explain the factors which facilitate the concentration of population in any region. Mention the several measures of population growth. State the significance of age-sex structure of population. 14+14+12
9. Critically explain Mackinder’s Heartland theory highlighting a debate on his prediction of Germany would be a super power of the world. Distinguish between “frontier” and “boundary”. 28+12
10. Discuss the concept of “planning region”. Explain the methods of regionalisation. Illustrate how resource base and technology help in the development of a region.6+12+22
PAPER – II (Time-3 Hours Full Marks-200)
GROUP-A
Answer Question 1 and any two from the rest.
- Divide India into climatic regions and state the basis of your classification. Elucidate the characteristics of each region with special reference to the seasonal variation of rainfall. Explain how the agricultural regions of India are related to the climatic regions. 10+20+10
2. Attempt a classification of Indian soils, mentioning their characteristics and area of occurrence. Name the regions where soil erosion is prevalent in India. Mention the different programmes adopted by the government to control soil erosion. 15+5+10
3. Analyse in detail the inter-state water dispute with reference to sharing of Kaveri river water. Describe how far India has been successful in developing solar power as a non-conventional energy source. 20+10
4. Write an account of the location and growth of oil refining industry in India. To what extent is the country capable of meeting its demand for oil? 20+10
5. Analyse the trend of urbanisation in India during the 20th century. Discuss the various problems related to urbanisation in India. 15+15
GROUP-B
(Answer Question 6 and any two from the rest.)
6. Classify the drainage system of West Bengal on the basis of their place of origin. Explain the characteristics of each type. Comment on the problem of flood in West Bengal. 5+25+10
7. Describe the characteristics of the major soil types of West Bengal. Account for the seasonal variation of rainfall in West Bengal. 15+15
8. Evaluate the prospectus of developing hydroelectric power in West Bengal. Specify the problems of management of natural resources in the Sundarban region of West Bengal. 20+10
9. Analyse the causes of degeneration of inland water transport in deltaic West Bengal. What are the problems and prospects of development of fisheries in the state? 15+15
10. Elucidate the factors responsible for the growth of population in West Bengal after independence. Highlight the effect of migration on population structure and composition in the state. 20+10