TOPIC WISE

PREVIOUS YEAR’S
QUESTIONS

ANTHROPOLOGY
OPTIONAL
PAPER - 1 & 2
ANTHROPOLOGY
optional
PAPER - 1 & 2
 ANTHROPOLOGY OPTIONAL IAS 2023 3

SYLLABUS

PAPER - 1
1.1 Meaning, Scope and development of to erect posture and its implications.
Anthropology. 1.6 Phylogenetic status, characteristics and
1.2 Relationships with other disciplines: Social geographical distribution of the following :
Sciences, behavioural Sciences, Life Sciences, (a) Plio-preleistocene hominids in South and
Medical Sciences, Earth Sciences and East Africa—Australopithecines.
Humanities.
(b) Homo erectus: Africa (Paranthropus),
1.3 Main branches of Anthropology, their scope and
Europe (Homo erectus (heidelbergensis),
relevance:
Asia (Homo erectus javanicus, Homo erectus
(a) Social-cultural Anthropology. pekinensis.
(b) Biological Anthropology. (c) Neanderthal man—La-Chapelle-aux-saints
(c) Archaeological Anthropology. (Classical type), Mt. Carmel (Progressive
type).
(d) Linguistic Anthropology.
(d) Rhodesian man.
1.4 Human Evolution and emergence of Man:
(e) Homo saoiens—Cromagnon, Grimaldi and
(a) Biological and Cultural factors in human
Chancelede.
evolution.
1.7 The biological basis of Life: The Cell, DNA
(b) Theories of Organic Evolution (Pre-
structure and replication, Protein Synthesis, Gene,
Darwinian, Darwinian and Post-Darwinian).
Mutation, Chromosomes, and Cell Division.
(c) Synthetic theory of evolution; Brief outline
1.8 (a) Principles of Prehistoric Archaeology.
of terms and concepts of evolutionary
Chronology: Relative and Absolute Dating
biology (Doll’s rule, Cope’s rule, Gause’s
methods.
rule, parallelism, convergence, adaptive
radiation, and mosaic evolution). (b) Cultural Evolution—Broad Outlines of
1.5 Characteristics of Primates; Evolutionary Trend Prehistoric cultures:
and Primate Taxonomy; Primate Adaptations; (i) Paleolithic
(Arboreal and Terrestrial) Primate Taxonomy; (ii) Mesolithic
Primate Behaviour; Tertiary and Quaternary fossil
primates; Living Major Primates; Comparative (iii) Neolithic
Anatomy of Man and Apes; Skeletal changes due (iv) Chalcolithic

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4 IAS 2023 ANTHROPOLOGY OPTIONAL

(v) Copper-Bronze Age religion, magic and science distinguished;

(vi) Iron Age magico-religious functionaries (priest, shaman,
medicine man, sorcerer and witch).
2.1 The Nature of Culture: The concept and
characteristics of culture and civilization; 6.  Anthropological theories:
Ethnocentrism vis-a-vis cultural Relativism. (a) Classical evolutionism (Tylor, Morgan and
2.2 The Nature of Society: Concept of Society; Frazer)
Society and Culture; Social Institution; Social (b) Historical particularism (Boas) Diffusionism
groups; and Social stratification. (British, German and American)
2.3 Marriage: Definition and universality; Laws of (c) Functionalism (Malinowski); Structural—
marriage (endogamy, exogamy, hypergamy, Functionalism (Radcliffe-Brown)
hypogamy, incest taboo); Type of marriage (d) Structuralism (L’evi-Strauss and E. Leach)
(monogamy, polygamy, polyandry, group
marriage). Functions of marriage; Marriage (e) Culture and personality (Benedict, Mead,
Linton, Kardiner and Cora-du Bois)
regulations (preferential, prescriptive and
proscriptive); Marriage payments (bride wealth (f) Neo—evolutionism (Childe, White, Steward,
and dowry). Sahlins and Service)
2.4 Family: Definition and universality; Family, (g) Cultural materialism (Harris)
household and domestic groups; functions of (h) Symbolic and interpretive theories (Turner,
family; Types of family (from the perspectives Schneider and Geertz)
of structure, blood relation, marriage, residence
(i) Cognitive theories (Tyler, Conklin)
and succession); Impact of urbanization,
industrialization and feminist movements on (j) Post-modernism in anthropology.
family. 7.  Culture, Language and Communi-
2.5 Kinship: Consanguinity and Affinity; Principles cation: Nature, origin and characteristics of
and types of descent (Unilineal, Double, Bilateral language; verbal and non-verbal communication;
Ambilineal); Forms of descent groups (lineage, social context of language use.
clan, phratry, moiety and kindred); Kinship 8.  Research methods in Anthropology
terminology (descriptive and classificatory);
(a) Fieldwork tradition in anthropology
Descent, Filiation and Complimentary Filiation;
Decent and Alliance. (b) Distinction between technique, method and
methodology
3. Economic Organization: Meaning, scope
and relevance of economic anthropology; (c) Tools of data collection: observation,
Formalist and Substantivist debate; Principles interview, schedules, questionnaire,
governing production, distribution and case study, genealogy, life-history, oral
exchange (reciprocity, redistribution and history, secondary sources of information,
market), in communities, subsisting on hunting participatory methods.
and gathering, fishing, swiddening, pastoralism, (d) Analysis, interpretation and presentation of
horticulture, and agriculture; globalization and data.
indigenous economic systems.
9.1 Human Genetics: Methods and Application:
4.  Political Organization and Social Control: Band, Methods for study of genetic principles in man-
tribe, chiefdom, kingdom and state; concepts of family study (pedigree analysis, twin study,
power, authority and legitimacy; social control, foster child, co-twin method, cytogenetic
law and justice in simple Societies. method, chromosomal and karyo-type
5.  Religion: Anthropological approaches to the analysis), biochemical methods, immunological
study of religion (evolutionary, psychological methods, D.N.A. technology and recombinant
and functional); monotheism and polytheism; technologies.
sacred and profane; myths and rituals; forms of 9.2 Mendelian genetics in man-family study,
religion in tribal and peasant Societies (animism, single factor, multifactor, lethal, sub-lethal and
animatism, fetishism, naturism and totemism); polygenic inheritance in man.

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 ANTHROPOLOGY OPTIONAL IAS 2023 5

9.3 Concept of genetic polymorphism and selection, Genetic and Non-genetic factors. Man’s
Mendelian population, Hardy-Weinberg law; physiological responses to environmental
causes and changes which bring down frequency- stresses: hot desert, cold, high altitude climate.
mutation, isolation, migration, selection,
9.8 Epidemiological Anthropology: Health and
inbreeding and genetic drift. Consanguineous
disease. Infectious and non-infectious diseases,
and non-consanguineous mating, genetic load,
Nutritional deficiency related diseases.
genetic effect of consanguineous and cousin
marriages. 10. Concept of human growth and Development:
9.4 Chromosomes and chromosomal aberrations in Stages of growth—pre-natal, natal, infant,
man, methodology. childhood, adolescence, maturity, senescence.

(a) Numerical and structural aberrations  Factors affecting growth and development
(disorders). genetic, environmental, biochemical,
nutritional, cultural and socio-economic.
(b) Sex chromosomal aberration- Klinefelter
(XXY), Turner (XO), Super female (XXX),  Ageing and senescence. Theories and
intersex and other syndromic disorders. observations
(c) Autosomal aberrations- Down syndrome,  Biological and chronological longevity.
Patau, Edward and Cri-du-chat syndromes. Human physique and somatotypes.
(d) Genetic imprints in human disease, genetic Methodologies for growth studies.
screening, genetic counseling, human 11.1 Relevance of menarche, menopause and other
DNA profiling, gene mapping and genome bioevents to fertility. Fertility patterns and
study. differentials.
9.5 Race and racism, biological basis of 11.2 Demographic theories-biological, social and
morphological variation of non-metric and
cultural.
characters. Racial criteria, racial traits in relation
to heredity and environment; biological basis of 11.3 Biological and socio-ecological factors influencing
racial classification, racial differentiation and race fecundity, fertility, natality and mortality.
crossing in man. 12. Applications of Anthropology: Anthropology of
9.6  Age, sex and population variation as genetic sports, Nutritional anthropology, Anthropology
marker: ABO, Rh blood groups, HLA Hp, in designing of defence and other equipments,
transferring, Gm, blood enzymes. Physiological Forensic Anthropology, Methods and principles
characteristics-Hb level, body fat, pulse rate, of personal identification and reconstruction,
respiratory functions and sensory perceptions in Applied human genetics—Paternity diagnosis,
different cultural and socio-economic groups. genetic counselling and eugenics, DNA
9.7 Concepts and methods of Ecological technology in diseases and medicine, serogenetics
Anthropology: Bio-cultural Adaptations— and cytogenetics in reproductive biology.

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6 IAS 2023 ANTHROPOLOGY OPTIONAL

PAPER - 2
1.1 Evolution of the Indian Culture and social change; Media and Social change.
Civilization: Prehistoric (Palaeolithic, Mesolithic,
6.1  Tribal situation in India—Bio-genetic variability,
Neolithic and Neolithic-Chalcolithic), Protohistoric
(Indus Civilization). Pre-Harappan, Harappan and linguistic and socio-economic characteristics of
post- Harappan cultures. Contributions of the the tribal populations and their distribution.
tribal cultures to Indian civilization. 6.2 Problems of the tribal Communities—Land
1.2  Palaeo: Anthropological evidences from India alienation, poverty, indebtedness, low literacy,
with special reference to Siwaliks and Narmada poor educational facilities, unemployment,
basin (Ramapithecus, Sivapithecus and Narmada under-employment, health and nutrition.
Man).
6.3 Developmental projects and their impact on tribal
1.3.  Ethno-archaeology in India: The concept
of ethno-archaeology; Survivals and Parallels displacement and problems of rehabilitation.
among the hunting, foraging, fishing, pastoral Development of forest policy and tribals. Impact
and peasant communities including arts and of urbanisation and industrialization on tribal
crafts producing communities. populations.
2.  Demographic profile of India: Ethnic and 7.1 Problems of exploitation and deprivation of
linguistic elements in the Indian population and Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Other
their distribution. Indian population—factors
Backward Classes. Constitutional safeguards for
influencing its structure and growth.
Scheduled Tribes and Scheduled Castes.
3.1 The structure and nature of traditional Indian
social system—Varnashram, Purushartha, Karma, 7.2 Social change and contemporary tribal societies:
Rina and Rebirth. Impact of modern democratic institutions,
3.2  Caste system in India: Structure and development programmes and welfare measures
characteristics Varna and caste, Theories of origin on tribals and weaker sections.
of caste system, Dominant caste, Caste mobility,
7.3 The concept of ethnicity; Ethnic conflicts and
Future of caste system, Jajmani system. Tribe-
political developments; Unrest among tribal
case continuum.
communities; Regionalism and demand for
3.3 Sacred Complex and Nature-Man-Spirit
autonomy; Pseudo-tribalism. Social change
Complex.
among the tribes during colonial and post-
3.4. Impact of Buddhism, Jainism, Islam and
Independent India.
Christianity of Indian society.
4. Emergence, growth and development in India— 8.1 Impact of Hinduism, Buddhism, Christianity,
Contributions of the 18th, 19th and early 20th Islam and other religions on tribal societies.
Century scholar-administrators. Contributions 8.2 Tribe and nation state—a comparative study of
of Indian anthropologists to tribal and caste tribal communities in India and other countries.
studies.
9.1 History of administration of tribal areas, tribal
5.1  Indian Village—Significane of village study
in India; Indian village as a social system; policies, plans, programmes of tribal development
Traditional and changing patterns of settlement and their implementation. The concept of PTGs
and inter-caste relations; Agrarian relations in (Primitive Tribal Groups), their distribution,
Indian villages; Impact of globalization on Indian special programmes for their development. Role
villages. of N.G.O.s in tribal development.
5.2 Linguistic and religious minorities and their
9.2 Role of anthropology in tribal and rural
social, political and economic status.
development.
5.3 Indigenous and exogenous processes of socio-
cultural change in Indian society: Sanskritization, 9.3 Contributions of anthropology to the
Westernization, Modernization; Inter-play of understanding of regionalism, communalism
little and great traditions; Panchayati Raj and and ethnic and political movements.

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 ANTHROPOLOGY OPTIONAL IAS 2023 7

ANTHROPOLOGY PYQs
PAPER -1

(i) Differences between Social Anthropology

1.1 Meaning, scope and development of and Sociology. 10 M (2016)
Anthropology.
1.2 Relationships with other disciplines: Social (ii) Archaeological Anthropology (10Marks
Sciences, Behavioural Sciences, Life 2015,1992)
Sciences, Medical Sciences, Earth Sciences
and Humanities. (iii) Linguistic Anthropology (10Marks 2013
,1990)
1.3 Main branches of Anthropology, their scope
and relevance:
(a) Social- cultural Anthropology. 1.4 Human Evolution and emergence of Man:
(b) Biological Anthropology. (a) Biological and Cultural factors in
(c) Archaeological Anthropology. human evolution.
(d) Linguistic Anthropology. (b) Theories of Organic Evolution (Pre
Darwinian, Darwinian and Post-
Darwinian).
1. Elaborate the scope of anthropology and (c) Synthetic theory of evolution; Brief
elucidate its uniqueness in the field of other outline of terms and concepts of
social sciences. (2021) evolutionary biology (Doll’s rule,
Cope’s rule, Gause’s rule, parallelism,
2. “The bio cultural approach is the hallmark of convergence, adaptive radiation, and
Biological Anthropology.” Explain. (2021) mosaic evolution).
3. How can synergising the core branches of
anthropology reinvigorate the holistic spirit of
the discipline. 20 M (2020) 1. Elucidate how Darwin and post-Darwin theories
of evolution resulted in the development of
4. Give an account of the field methods used in the Synthetic theory of evolution. 15 M (2020)
study of Archaeological Anthropology. 15 marks
(2018) 2. Explain the biological changes that made human
beings capable of making cultures. 20 marks
5. Define Anthropology. Describe the major (2018)
branches of Anthropology elaborating on any
one branch. (2017) 3. Critically examine the Darwin’s theory of evolution
in understanding Evolution. (15Marks 2015)
6. Critically examine the role of anthropology in
Contemporary India. (15Marks 2014) 4. Biological Evolution of early man
7. The Relevance of Anthropology (2018) 5. How Darwinism differs from the synthetic theory
8. Major subdivisions of Anthropology (10Marks of organic evolution?
2014)
6. What is Synthetic Theory of Evolution? Discuss
9. How do you situate Anthropology in Social how this theory helps us in understanding the
Sciences? (10Marks 2013) evolutionary mechanism.

10. Write notes on the following in about 150 words 7. What is organic evolution? Give evidences for
each. 10 Marks human evolution.

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8 IAS 2023 ANTHROPOLOGY OPTIONAL

1. What are the physical and cultural characteristics

1.5 Characteristics of Primates; Evolutionary of Homo erectus? Discuss its phylogenetic status.
Trend and Primate Taxonomy; Primate (2021)
Adaptations; (Arboreal and Terrestrial)
Primate Taxonomy; Primate Behaviour; 2. Critically evaluate the contesting theories of
Tertiary and Quaternary fossil primates; the emergence and dispersal of modern Homo
Living Major Primates; Comparative sapiens. 20 M (2020)
Anatomy of Man and Apes; Skeletal
changes due to erect posture and its 3. Europeans are closer to Neanderthals’. Critically
implications. discuss in view of the African origin of human
kind. (2019)

4. Describe the culture related to homo erectus.

1. The losses and gains of erect posture (2021) 15marks (2018)
2. Jane Goodall’s contributions in studying primate 5. Write short notes of 150 words on Rhodesian
behaviour. 10 M (2020) Man (2016)
3. Illustrate with examples the various types of 6. Describe the Salient characteristics &
locomotion pattern among non-human primates. Geographical distribution of Homo erectus.
15 M (2020) (2015)

4. Adaptive primate radiation (2019) 10 marks 7. Asian Homo erectus (10Marks 2014)

5. Discuss the evolutionary significance of 8. Comment briefly on the phylogenetic position of

bipedalism and erect posture. 20 marks (2019) Australopithecines (10Marks 2012)

6. Bring out the comparative anatomical features 9. Neanderthal Man (15 Marks – 2011)
of man and apes. Discuss their evolutionary
10. Describe major skeletal similarities & differences
significance. (2017)
between Home Erectus & Homo Sapiens (30
7. Explain the skeletal changes due to erect posture Marks – 2011)
and their implications. (2016) 11. Culture of Homo erectus (15 Marks – 2010)
8. Elucidate the skeletal differences between
humans and chimpanzees. (15Marks 2014)
1.7 The biological basis of life: The Cell,
9. Role of Primatology in Anthropological studies. DNA structure and replication, Protein
Synthesis, Gene, Mutation, Chromosomes,
(10Marks 2013)
and Cell Division.

1.6 Phylogenetic status, characteristics 1. Write a short note on protein synthesis (2008)
and geographical distribution of the
following:
(a) Plio-pleistocene hominids in South 1.8 (a) Principles of Prehistoric Archaeology.
and East Africa - Australopithecines. Chronology: Relative and Absolute
Dating methods.
(b) Homo erectus: Africa (Paranthropus),
Europe (Homo erectus (b) Cultural Evolution- Broad Outlines of
heidelbergensis), Asia (Homo erectus Prehistoric cultures: (i) Paleolithic
javanicus, Homo erectus pekinensis). (ii) Mesolithic (iii) Neolithic (iv)
Chalcolithic (v) Copper-Bronze Age
(c) Neanderthal Man- La-
(vi) Iron Age
Chapelleauxsaints (Classical type),
Mt. Carmel (Progressive type).
(d) Rhodesian man. 1. Describe the features of early farming cultures
(e) Homo sapiens — Cromagnon, and Neolithic of the Near East. (2021)
Grimaldi and Chancelede.
2. Discuss the salient features of different traditions

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 ANTHROPOLOGY OPTIONAL IAS 2023 9

of European Mesolithic. (2021) 1. Critically evaluate different types of social

stratifications with suitable examples. (2021)
3. Thermoluminescence (TL) dating (2021)
2. Human rights and cultural relativism. 10 M
4. Natufian culture. 10 M (2020) (2020)
5. Differentiate between lower palaeolithic 3. Discuss Erving Goffman’s concept of total
and middle palaeolithic culture with suitable institutions and it’s relevance in contemporary
examples. 15 M (2020) society. 15 M (2020)

6. Discuss with examples the megalithic culture of 4. Discuss Social stratification according to any
India in the archaeological context. (2019) three major approaches. 20 marks (2019)

7. Olduvai gorge. 10 marks (2019) 5. Short notes on Cultural Relativism (2016,1995,

1987, 2019)
8. Elucidate Mesolithic culture and associated rock
art with examples from India. 15 marks (2019) 6. Is culture unique to human beings? Critically
examine. (15Marks 2014)
9. Relative dating methods . (2019) 10 marks
7. Why the concept of Culture Relativism been so
10. Discuss briefly the major traditions in the Upper dear to Anthropologists? (20Marks 2013)
Paleolithic cultures of Europe. 15 marks (2019)
8. Bring out the distinguishing features of culture
11. Town planning of Harappan culture. 10 marks and civilization. (15Marks 2013)
(2018)
9. Cultural relativism and subsequent violation of
12. Give an account of the consequences of food Human rights? (15 Marks — 2010)
production of Neolithic culture. 15 (2018)
10. Components of culture vast and varied”. Explain
13. What are dating methods? Discuss one absolute this statement. (2002)
method and one relative methods in detail.
(2017) 11. Define ethnography and present a brief history
of ethnographic studies. 20 marks (2018)
14. Salient features of Mesolithic culture (2017)
12. Society and culture (10 Marks 2015)
15. Short notes on Neolithic Cultures of India (2016)
13. Define Status & Role. Distinguish between
16. Delineate the salient features of Chalcoloithic Ascribed and Achieved Status. (15Marks 2014)
cultures. (2016)
14. What is the basis of social stratification? Discuss
17. Paleolithic Culture (10Marks 2015) with examples (20Marks 2012)

18. Describe the Neolithic culture of India. (15Marks 15. Explain the concept of status and role in
2014) anthropology (20Marks 2012)

19. Describe the absolute dating methods in

Archaeology, Highlighting the importance of 2.3 Marriage: Definition and universality;
each method. (15Marks 2014) Laws of marriage (endogamy, exogamy,
hypergamy, hypogamy, incest taboo);
20. Carbon-14 method of dating (10Marks 2013) Types of marriage (monogamy,
polygamy, polyandry, group marriage).
Functions of marriage; Marriage
2.1 The Nature of Culture: The concept and regulations (preferential, prescriptive and
characteristics of culture and civilization; proscriptive); Marriage payments (bride
Ethnocentrism vis-àvis cultural Relativism. wealth and dowry).
2.2 The Nature of Society: Concept of Society;
Society and Culture; Social Institutions;
Social groups; and Social stratification. 1. Marriage Regulations and Alliance Theory
(2021)

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10 IAS 2023 ANTHROPOLOGY OPTIONAL

2. Ways of acquiring mate in Tribal society. 10 M

2.5 Kinship: Consanguinity and Affinity;
(2018)
Principles and types of descent (Unilineal,
Double, Bilateral, Ambilineal); Forms of
3. Discuss the Different forms of preferential
descent groups (lineage, clan, phratry,
marriage with suitable examples from tribal moiety and kindred); Kinship terminology
societies in India. 15 M (2017) (descriptive and classificatory); Descent,
Filiation and Complimentary Filiation;
4. Define marriage & describe the various types of Descent and Alliance.
marriages in human societies. (15Marks 2014)

5. Where do you situate ‘live-in relationship’ within 1. Descent Groups (2021)

the institution of marriage? (15Marks 2013) 2. Explain the structural analysis of kinship as
proposed by Levi-Strauss. (2021)
6. Ways of acquiring a spouse in simpler societies
(12Marks 2012) 3. How did Radcliffe-Brown and Lewis-Strauss
study kinship in terms of social structure. (2019)
7. How does taboo serve as a means of social 15marks
control? (15Marks 2013)
4. Kinship Terminology 10 M (2018)
8. Incest Taboo (2006) 5. Elucidate the determinants of kinship terminology.
15 M (2017)
9. What are incest regulations? Bring out their socio-
cultural functions in the context of stability in the 6. Bilineal and bilateral descents. 10 M (2017)
institutions of marriage, family and kinship.
7. Short notes on Lineage and Clan. 10M (2016)

8. Describes the cardinal points of descent and

2.4 Family: Definition and universality; Family, alliance theories. 20 M (2016)
household and domestic groups; functions
of family; Types of family (from the 9. Double Descent (10Marks 2014)
perspectives of structure, blood relation,
marriage, residence and succession); 10. Various types of descent (10Marks 2013) (2008)
Impact of urbanization, industrialization
11. Describe types of kinship groups formed on the
and feminist movements on family.
basis of different principles. (20Marks 2012)

12. What factors are responsible for bringing about

1. Critically evaluate Lewis Morgan’s classification variation in residence of different societies?
of family. (2021) Explain how kinship influences man’s social life.
(30 Marks — 2010)
2. Explain the impact of feminist movement on
13. Segmentary lineage and territoriality (15 Marks
universality of marriage and family structure. 15 – 2010)
M (2020)

3. Discuss the impact of urbanization and feminist 3. Economic organization: Meaning, scope
movements on family in India. (2016) and relevance of economic anthropology;
Formalist and Substantivist debate;
4. Define family and critically examine Universality Principles governing production,
of Family. (15Marks 2015) distribution and exchange (reciprocity,
redistribution and market), in communities,
subsisting on hunting and gathering,
5. Discuss the impact of urbanization and feminist
fishing, swiddening, pastoralism,
movement on family. (20Marks 2013) horticulture, and agriculture; globalization
and indigenous economic systems.
6. Is family a social institution? (12Marks 2012)

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 ANTHROPOLOGY OPTIONAL IAS 2023 11

1. Modes of Subsistence (2021) 4. Mention the characteristics features of band with

suitable examples. 15 M (2017)
2. Pastoralism in India 10 marks (2019)
5. Discuss different social control mechanisms in
3. Write the characteristics of hunting and gathering
simple societies. 15 M (2016)
economy. 15 marks (2018)
6. Differentiate between State and Stateless
4. With the help of appropriate example, explain
the various forms of exchange system. 15 M Societies. (10Marks 2014)
(2017)
7. Discuss the nature of Law and Justice in simple
5. Discuss the principles governing production, societies citing suitable examples. (20Marks
distribution and exchange in simple societies.20 2014)
M (2016)
8. Band and tribal societies (12Marks 2012)
6. Horticulture (10Marks 2015)

7. Critically examine the Formalists & Substantivists 5. Religion: Anthropological approaches

views on the applicability of Economic laws in the to the study of religion (evolutionary,
study of Primitive societies. (20Marks 2015) psychological and functional); monotheism
and polytheism; sacred and profane; myths
8. Discuss the impact of globalization on tribal and rituals; forms of religion in tribal and
economy (20Marks 2013) peasant societies (animism, animatism,
fetishism, naturism and totemism);
9. Differentiate between Economics and Economic
religion, magic and science distinguished;
Anthropology (10Marks 2013)
magicoreligious functionaries (priest,
10. Discuss different modes of Exchanges in simple shaman, medicine man, sorcerer and
societies with examples (30Marks 2011) witch).

11. Critically examine the debate between Formalists

& Substantivists (30Marks 2011) 1. Animism and Deep Ecology (2021)

12. What stage is known as incipient stage of food 2. Critically explain the anthropological approaches
production? Point out major features of this to religion 15 marks (2019)
cultural stage. Illustrate your answer with suitable
examples from a specific area in the old world. 3. Discuss the different traditional forms of religion
(30 Marks 2010) in tribal societies. 20 M (2017)

4. Difference between science and magic. 10 M

4. Political organization and Social Control: (2018)
Band, tribe, chiefdom, kingdom and
state; concepts of power, authority and 5. Short notes on Totemism 10 M (2016)
legitimacy; social control, law and justice
in simple societies. 6. Critically examine different Anthropological
approaches to Religion. 15 M (2016)

1. How do political organizations of simple societies 7. How do you relate the concepts of ‘Sacred’ and
establish power, authority and legitimacy? ‘Profane’ in Durkheim’s theory of Religion with a
(2021) focus on the role of Totem? (15Marks 2015)

2. How is the construction of power linked to the 8. Totemism (10Marks 2013)

notion of conspicuous consumption and it’s
impact on distributive justice. 15 M (2020) 9. Distinguish between religion, magic and science
(20Marks 2013)
3. How does customary law function in the tribal
society? Discuss its different sources. 15 marks 10. Explain various Anthropological approaches to
(2018) study Religion (30Marks 2011)

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12 IAS 2023 ANTHROPOLOGY OPTIONAL

14. What are the major criticisms of the theory of

6. Anthropological theories: “Structuralism” as propounded by Claude Levi-
Strauss? (30 Marks-2009)
Classical evolutionism (Tylor, Morgan 15. Culture and personality (Benedict, Mead, Linton,
and Frazer) Kardiner and Cora –du Bois).

1. How did Morgan explain the Evolution of 16. Discuss various anthropological approaches
Marriage, Family and Socio-Political organization to the study of personality and culture. 20 M
& how did other Evolutionists disagree with his (2020)
explanation? (20Marks 2015)
17. What do you understand by the National
2. How do Diffusionism & Evolutionism differ as character Study? Illustrate. 15 M (2018)
explanations of Culture change? (15Marks 2015)
18. Explain Ruth Benedict’s patterns of culture. 20 M
3. Point out the differences in the concepts of (2017)
Classical Evolutionism and neo-evolutionism
in socio-cultural anthropology. Which stage of
Neo - evolutionism (Childe, White,
Prehistoric culture is known as cultural evolution
and why? (30 Marks — 2010) Steward, Sahlins and Service)

1. Explain the theory of ‘Neo-Evolutionism’ (2009)

Universal Culture Evolution (2002)
2. What do you understand by Neo-evolutionism?
1. Historical particularism (Boas); Diffusionism Evaluate how Leslie A White’s approach is helpful
(British, German and American) in understanding cultural revolution. (2000)

2. Historical Particularism (10Marks 2015, 2021) 3. What do you mean by cultural ecology’? Evaluate
how Julian Steward’s particularistic Approach is
3. How do Diffusionism & Evolutionism differ as helpful in understanding multilineal evolution.
explanations of Culture change? (15Marks 2015)

4. Culture area & Age area (Diffusionism) (2000) Cultural materialism (Harris)
5. Define ‘culture area’. How did it help American
diffusionists to understand diffusion of culture? 1. Cultural Materialism (15 Marks 2011),
2003,2019)
6. Critically examine the Historical Particularistic
approach of Franz Boas to the study of culture.
Symbolic and interpretive theories
7. Functionalism (Malinowski); Structural- (Turner, Schneider and Geertz)
functionlism (Radcliffe-Brown)
1. Elucidate the concept of “thick description” of
8. Basic tenets of structural-functionalism. (2017)
Clifford Geertz with a suitable example. (2021)
9. Short notes on Functionalism (2016)
2. Victor Turner and liminality. 10 M (2020)
10. What is functionalism? Discuss the functional
3. Critically examine the contribution of Victor
approach to the understanding of Religion.
Turner and Clifford Geertz in anthropology. 20
(20Marks 2014)
marks (2019)
11. In what ways is Functionalism different from
Structural Functionalism? (20Marks 2013) 4. According to Geertz, how does the cock-fight
reveal aspects of Balinese culture? 15 M (2016)
12. Structuralism (L’evi - Strauss and [Link])
5. What made Geertz’s Interpretative Anthropology
13. How do the concepts of binary opposites and distinct from Turner’s Symbolic Anthropology?
exchange figure in Levi-Strauss’ structural What does each of them mean by the terms
analysis of kinship? 15 M (2016) Symbol & Symbolic? (20Marks 2015)

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 ANTHROPOLOGY OPTIONAL IAS 2023 13

6. Bring out the contribution of Turner and

Geertz in symbolic and interpretive theories in 8. Research methods in anthropology:
Anthropology (15Marks 2013) (a) Fieldwork tradition in anthropology
7. Critically examine the contribution of (b) Distinction between technique,
anthropologists in the interpretation of Symbols method and methodology
(30Marks 2011) (c) Tools of data collection: observation,
interview, schedules, questionnaire,
Case study, genealogy, lifehistory,
Cognitive theories (Tyler, Conklin)
oral history, secondary sources of
information, participatory methods.
1. Cognitive Anthropology (2002)
(d) Analysis, interpretation and
2. What is cognitive approach? Critically examine presentation of data.
its implications in Socio-cultural Anthropology.

Post- modernism in anthropology 1. Discuss various tools of data collection in

conducting anthropological research. (2021)
1. Explain the basic features of ‘Postmodernism’ in
Anthropology. (20Marks 2015) 2. Experimental ethnography. 10 M (2020)

2. Post-modernism in anthropology (12Marks 3. How have interpretation and presentation of

2012) data changed from classical to contemporary
writing in anthropological texts? 15 M (2020)
7. Culture, language and communication: 4. Discuss phenomenology as a research method in
Nature, origin and characteristics
anthropological studies. 15 marks (2019)
of language; verbal and nonverbal
communication; social context of language
5. Evaluate participant observation in producing
use.
anthropological knowledge. 15 marks (2019)

6. Define ethnography and present a brief history

1. Mention the major branches of linguistic
anthropology and discuss language use in social of ethnography studies. 20 marks (2018)
and cultural settings. (2021)
7. How is case study method helpful in
2. Sapir-Whorf hypothesis. 10 M (2020) understanding a social-phenomena? Explain
3. Explain how variations in language usage related with suitable example. 20 marks (2018)
to social inequality. 20 M (2020)
8. Elucidate the basic characteristics of
4. Explain the difference between ‘Emic’ & ‘Etic’ and anthropological fieldwork methods. 15 M (2017)
how does the difference derive from the study of
language? (10Marks 2015 9. Describe the evolution of Fieldwork tradition in
Anthropology. 15 M (2016)
5. The relationship between Linguistics and Social-
cultural Anthropology. 10 M (2019)
10. Field work tradition in Anthropology (10Marks
6. Critically examine that the structure and content 2014)
of language are influenced by culture. 15 marks
(2018) 11. Field work tradition in Anthropology (15Marks
2011)
7. Short notes on Non-verbal communication. 10
M (2017) 12. Genealogical Method (10Marks 2014),
8. State the theories regarding the origin of
13. Discuss the advantages and limitations of
spoken languages in human societies both from
Biological and cultural points of view. (30 Marks participant – observations as a technique of data
—2010) collection (20Marks 2012)

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14 IAS 2023 ANTHROPOLOGY OPTIONAL

3. Differentiate between transient and balanced

9.1 Human Genetics: Methods and Application: genetic polymorphisms. Illustrate your answer
Methods for study of genetic principles with suitable examples from human populations.
in man-family study (pedigree analysis, 15 marks (2019)
twin study, foster child, co-twin method,
cytogenetic method, chromosomal 4. Implications of mutation in evolution 10 M
and karyo-type analysis), biochemical (2019)
methods, immunological methods,
D.N.A. technology and recombinant 5. Hardy-Weinberg Law. 10 M (2017)
technologies.
6. Critically discuss the Mendelian principles and
their application to human populations. 15 M
1. How are the cases of disputed paternity solved? (2016)
Discuss the recent techniques. (2021)
7. Define Genetic polymorphism. Give details of its
2. Explain the genetic mechanisms of micro and types with suitable examples. (15Marks 2015)
macro evolution. (2021)
8. Discuss the factors affecting gene frequencies
3. Briefly describe the various methods used in the among human populations. (20Marks 2014)
genetic study of man. 20 M (2017)
9. What do you understand by ‘Genetic Load’ in a
4. Twin method in human genetics (10Marks 2013) population? How is it measured and what are the
important factors that can influence it? (15Marks
5. What do you understand by Immunogenetics?
2013)
Explain with suitable examples. (15Marks 2015)
10. What are the genetic effects of Consanguinity?
6. Anthropological relevance of population genetics
Give examples? (20Marks 2012)
(20 Marks — 2009) ]
11. Genetic Polymorphism (15Marks 2011) (2006)

9.2 Mendelian genetics in man-family study, 12. Conditions necessary for the operation of hardy
single factor, multifactor, lethal, sublethal – Weinberg law (15Marks 2011)
and polygenic inheritance in man.
13. What is Balanced Genetic Polymorphism? How is
it maintained in a population? (2010)
1. Categorize Genes that influence Human Survival.
10 M (2018)
9.4 Chromosomes and chromosomal
2. What are the legal and sub-lethal genes? Explain
aberrations in man, methodology.
(20Marks 2012)
(a) Numerical and structural aberrations
3. Discuss monogenetic & polygenetic inheritance (disorders).
in man with suitable examples (30Marks 2011)
(b) Sex chromosomal aberrations –
Klinefelter (XXY), Turner (XO), Super
female (XXX), intersex and other
9.3 Concept of genetic polymorphism and
syndromic disorders.
selection, Mendelian population, Hardy
Weinberg law; causes and changes (c) Autosomal aberrations – Down
which bring down frequency – mutation, syndrome, Patau, Edward and Cri-du-
isolation, migration, selection, inbreeding chat syndromes.
and genetic drift. Consanguineous and (d) Genetic imprints in human disease,
nonconsanguineous mating, genetic load, genetic screening, genetic counseling,
genetic effect of consanguineous and human DNA profiling, gene mapping
cousin marriages. and genome study.

1. Genetic drift. 10 M (2020)

1. “Chromosomal aberrations can play havoc with
2. How do marriage rules impact the gene pool of the human body and mind.” Explain with suitable
populations? 15 M (2020) examples. (2021)

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 ANTHROPOLOGY OPTIONAL IAS 2023 15

2. How many numerical aberrations in sex 7. Differentiate between Race and Racism. What are
chromosomes lead to genetic disorders? 15 M three major races of the world? Give important
(2020) biological criteria used frequently for such a
classification.(15Marks 2013)
3. Describe the mechanism for structural anomalies
of autosomes with diagrams. 20 marks (2018) 8. Discuss race Crossing in humans with suitable
examples (20Marks 2012)
4. Explain the significance of screening and
counselling for genetic disorders.(2016) 9. Is Race a valid concept? Critically assess the
relevance of racial classification in the Indian
5. Down’s syndrome (10Marks 2015) Context. (30 Marks — 2010)

6. Discuss chromosomal aberrations in man

illustrating with examples. (15Marks 2015) 9.6 Age, sex and population variation as
genetic marker- ABO, Rh blood groups,
7. Describe Turner and Kline filter Syndromes HLA Hp, transferring, Gm, blood enzymes.
(15Marks 2014) Physiological characteristics-Hb level,
body fat, pulse rate, respiratory functions
8. Genetic Counselling (10Marks 2014)
and sensory perceptions in different
9. Discuss the chromosomal aberrations and cultural and socioeconomic groups.
manifestations of Klinefelter and Turner
syndromes (20 Marks 2013) 1. RH-blood group (2016)

10. Chromosomal deletions and numerical 2. What are genetic markers and what is their
fluctuations may lead to gross abnormalities in usefulness?
man. Discuss with the help of suitable example.
(30 Marks — 2010) 3. Why are blood groups considered as good
genetic markers? Illustrate with examples.
(15Marks 2013)
9.5 Race and racism, biological basis of
morphological variation of non-metric 4. Discuss the role of ABO blood group system in
and metric characters. Racial criteria, resolving cases of disputed paternity (20Marks
racial traits in relation to heredity and 2012)
environment; biological basis of racial
5. Give a competitive account of the variations in
classification, racial differentiation and
race crossing in man. haemoglobin levels and respiratory functions
among the populations Living under different
environmental stresses (30Marks 2012)
1. Is race a valid and biologically meaningful 6. Genetics of HLA and organ transplantation
concept? (2021)
7. Respiratory Functions (15Marks 2011)
2. Racism and Eugenics. 10 M (2020)

3. with reference to the somatoscopic and

9.7 Concepts and methods of Ecological
morphometric characteristics commonly used Anthropology. Bio-cultural Adaptations –
for racial classification, make critical comments Genetic and Non- genetic factors. Man’s
as to whether’ Race’ is a valid concept. 20 marks physiological responses to environmental
(2019) stresses: hot desert, cold, high altitude
climate.
4. Race is a Myth. Justify its Present Day Relevance.
10 M (2018)
1. What is acclimatization? Discuss adaptive
5. Concept of race. 10 M (2017) responses to [Link] and cold climate. (2021)

6. Explain the role of heredity and environment in 2. Describe the biocultural responses to extreme
the formation of races. 15 M (2016) climatic events. 15 M (2020)

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16 IAS 2023 ANTHROPOLOGY OPTIONAL

3. ‘Human adaptations are always bio-cultural 4. Describe the scope of Epidemiological

in nature’. Discuss with reference to human Anthropology in the study of infectious and non-
adaptation to high-altitude climate. 20 marks infectious diseases. (2016)
2019
5. Epidemiological Anthropology (10Marks 2014)
4. Distinguish between adaptation, adaptability
and acclimatization with examples. 20 marks 20 6. Discuss the role of anthropology in the
understanding of health and disease. What
M (2018)
specific understanding is available with respect
5. Discuss the responses and acclimatization to to infectious and non-infectious diseases?
high altitude stresses. 15 M (2017) (20Marks 2014)

6. Discuss the genetic and non-genetic factors in 7. What is meant by epidemiological transition?
Elaborate upon its causes and consequences
the bio-cultural adaptations of human beings to
highlighting major health problems of our adult
different environments. 20 M (2016)
population today. (15Marks 2013)
7. Critically examine the physiological responses
8. Epidemiological anthropology (12Marks 2012)
and Acclimatization to cold climate in man.
(15Marks 2015) 9. Briefly discuss the important causes for the
variations in occurrence and Intensity of parasitic
8. What are the stresses at high altitudes? How do disease among different populations (20Marks
better cardiorespiratory functions help the native 2012)
highlanders in combating low environmental
pressure? (15Marks 2014)
10. Concept of human growth and development:
9. Ecological Anthropology (10Marks 2014)
stages of growth - pre-natal, natal,
10. Elaborate upon major human adaptations to infant, childhood, adolescence, maturity,
heat and cold. (15Marks 2013) senescence. - Factors affecting growth
and development genetic, environmental,
11. Give a competitive account of the variations in biochemical, nutritional, cultural and
haemoglobin levels and respiratory functions socioeconomic. - Ageing and senescence.
among the populations Living under different Theories and observations - biological and
environmental stresses (30Marks 2012) chronological longevity. Human physique
and somatotypes. Methodologies for
12. How does improved aerobic fitness increase growth studies.
exercise tolerance in warm humid climates? Give
suitable examples in support of your answer.
(20Marks 2012) 1. Human adolescent growth spurt (2021)
13. Native Highlanders are well adapted to the High- 2. Discuss the physiological and evolutionary
altitude environment. Discuss (30Marks 2011) theories of aging. (2021)

3. Secular trend in human growth can be positive

9.8 Epidemiological Anthropology: Health and negative or neutral. Illustrate with examples. 20
disease. Infectious and non-infectious M (2020)
diseases. Nutritional deficiency related
4. Senescence. 10 M (2020)
diseases.
5. Genetico-environmental factors affecting human
growth (2019)
1. Describe the impact of infectious diseases on
indigenous populations. 15 M (2020) 6. Discuss the methods of studying human growth
with their merits and demerits. 15 marks (2019)
2. Critically examine the demographic and
epidemiological consequences with rise in food 7. Issues of Elderly and Senescence in Developing
production and sedentism. 15 M (2020) and Developed Countries (2018)

3. Narrate evolution of disease and major causes of 8. Discuss Sheldon’s method of somatotyping.
ill health in human populations. 15 marks (2018) (2017)

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 ANTHROPOLOGY OPTIONAL IAS 2023 17

9. Describe the various methods of studying growth 1. Discuss the bio social determinants of fertility
highlighting their merits and demerits. (2017) and fecundity. (2021)

10. Discuss different factors affecting growth and 2. Discuss the biological factors influencing fertility
development in human beings. (2016) in light of the relationship between fecundity
and fertility. 15 marks (2019)
11. What is an Anthropometric Somatotype? Describe
Heath & Carter’s method of Somatotyping. 3. Describe the biological and socio-ecological
(20Marks 2015) factors affecting fertility and mortality. 15 M
(2017)
12. What are the different stages of Growth? Describe
any one of them in detail. (20Marks 2014) 4. Age at menarche. 10 M (2017)

13. Longitudinal method of studying growth 5. Define fecundity and explain major factors
(10Marks 2015) affecting fecundity in Indian populations. (15
marks,2018)
14. Justify “Though human growth is under tight
genetic control but it is influenced by various 6. Menopause and its impact (10Marks 2015)
environmental factors.” (15Marks 2013) 7. Discuss the relevance of menarche, menopause
15. Differentiation between Child Growth and & other bio events to fertility. (15Marks 2014)
Development. (10Marks 2013) 8. Demographic transition (10Marks 2013)
16. Differentiate between ‘growth’ and ‘development’. 9. Fertility and Fecundity (10Marks 2014)
List the factors affecting human growth and
development. (2009) 10. Distinguish between the terms fecundity’
and fertility’. Are the factors influencing them
17. Discuss Ageing and Senescence. Describe either distinguishable? Discuss. (30 Marks — 2010)
the biological or social theories of Ageing.
(20Marks 2014)
12. Applications of Anthropology:
18. Cross-sectional methods of studying human Anthropology of sports, Nutritional
growth (10Marks 2014) anthropology, Anthropology in designing
of defence and other equipments,
19. Ageing and Senescence (10Marks 2013)
Forensic Anthropology, Methods and
20. Explain any to biological theories of ageing principles of personal identification and
based on purposeful events. (2012) reconstruction, Applied human genetics –
Paternity diagnosis, genetic counseling and
21. Describe different methods of studying human eugenics, DNA technology in diseases and
growth (2011) medicine, serogenetics and cytogenetics
in reproductive biology.
22. Define Somatotype. Describe the salient features
of Somatotype (2011)
1. What is Anthropometry? Discuss its role in
23. Senescence and socio-economics in assessing the nutritional status and sports
contemporary times (15 Marks — 2010) capability of a person. (2021)

2. What are the applications of human genomic

11.1 Relevance of menarche, menopause research in human welfare? 15 M (2020)
and other bioevents to fertility. Fertility
patterns and differentials. 3. Ethics and Genetic Engineering. 10 M (2020)
11.2 Demographic theories- biological, social 4. Anthropological inputs in facial reconstruction
and cultural. (2019)
11.3 Biological and socio-ecological factors
influencing fecundity, fertility, natality 5. ‘Applied human genetics has come to touch every
and mortality. sphere of human life’. Discuss in light of recent
advances in molecular anthropology. (2019)

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18 IAS 2023 ANTHROPOLOGY OPTIONAL

6. Describe the role of Anthropology in designing 12. Application of anthropometry in designing (12
defence and other equipment. (2016) Marks 2012)

7. What are the methods of personal identifications? 13. Briefly discuss the applications of the knowledge
Critically examine how personal identification of Human Osteology in forensic investigations.
helps in criminal investigations. (2017) (20Marks 2012)

14. Personal Identification (15Marks 2011)

8. Write short notes on Forensic Anthropology
(2016 ,2007 ,2003,1997) 15. Discuss the application of anthropological
knowledge in designing equipment. (30Marks
9. DNA Technology in Medicine (10Marks 2015)
2011)
10. Elucidate the role of Anthropology in selecting 16. Explain the Anthropological knowledge in genetic
and monitoring of Sports persons. (15Marks counseling, forensic science, sports, nutrition.
2015) (30Marks 2011)

11. Forensic Science can help in Criminal 17. Role of forensic anthropology in the field of
Investigations. Discuss. (20Marks 2015) personal identification. (15 Marks —2010)

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 ANTHROPOLOGY OPTIONAL IAS 2023 19

ANTHROPOLOGY PYQs
PAPER -2

13. Explain the contribution of tribal cultures to

1.1 Evolution of the Indian Culture and
Indian civilization. 20 marks(2018)
Civilization — Prehistoric (Palaeolithic,
Mesolithic, Neolithic and Neolithic 14. Neolithic cultures of south India. 10m (2017)
Chalcolithic). Protohistoric (Indus
Civilization): PreHarappan, Harappan and 15. Describe the salient features of chalcolithic
post-Harappan cultures. Contributions of cultures of the deccan. 15m (2017)
tribal cultures to Indian civilization.
16. Describe various aspects of trade and religion of
1. Harappan seals (2021) Harappan civilization.15m (2017)

2. Critically discuss the origin of Indus valley 17. Give the detail appraisal of skeletal remains
Civilization. Mention the evidences of its from chalcolithic culture of undivided Punjab.
endogenous origin from the pre-Harappan sites. (2016)20M
(2021)
18. Short notes on Mesolithic findings from Belan
3. Give the distribution and characteristics features valley. 10 M (2016)
of Upper paleolithic culture in India. (2021)
19. South Indian paleoliths (10Marks 2015)
4. Discuss the characteristic features of Neolithic-
culture in India. 20 M (2020) 20. Prehistoric Rock art of central India. (10Marks
2015)
5. Discuss the Contributions of [Link] to
archaeological anthropology in India. 15 M 21. Discuss the significance of Harappan civilization
(2020)
sites from India. (15Marks 2015)
6. Contributions of Robert Bruce Foote to Indian
archaeology. 10 M (2020) 22. Neolithic cultures of NE India (10Marks 2014)

7. Debates on Aryan invasion. 10 M (2020) 23. Describe what is known of Harappan Religion.
Have some of its elements continued into later
8. Distribution of neolithic sites in India. 10 marks Hinduism? Discuss. (20Marks 2014)
(2019)
24. Discuss salient features of Mesolithic culture in
9. Describe the palaeolithic culture with special India with special reference to western India.
reference to Soanian tradition. Indicate the
(10Marks - 2013)
problems of describe the Indian palaeolithic
15+5=20 M (2019) 25. Indian Paleolithic culture can neither be conceived
10. What has been the contributions of tribal people chronologically homogenous nor as a uniform
to the Indian independence movement. 15 marks cultural phase. Discuss. (15Marks - 2013)
2019
26. Discuss the significance of study of religious
11. What kind of society may be reconstructed centres to the understanding of Indian civilization.
from the archaeological evidences of Harappan (20Marks - 2013)
culture. 20 Marks 2019
27. Soan culture. (12Marks - 2012) (30Marks - 2011)
12. Examine the regional variations of Mesolithic
cultures of India. 20 marks (2018) 28. Paleolithic Art. (12Marks - 2012)

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20 IAS 2023 ANTHROPOLOGY OPTIONAL

29. Compare the salient features and distribution 10. Narmada Man. (12Marks - 2012)
of the Middle Paleolithic and Upper Paleolithic
cultures in India. Add a note on the tool traditions 11. Sivapithecus (15 Marks - 2010)
of the Upper Paleolithic period. (2012)

30. Iron age in Gangetic region (15Marks - 2011) 1.3 Ethno-archaeology in India: The concept of
ethno-archaeology; Survivals and Parallels
31. Describe the characteristic feature of Mesolithic among the hunting, foraging, fishing,
cultures in India? (- 2011) pastoral & peasant communities Including
arts and crafts producing communities.
32. Neolithic Culture in India (15 Marks - 2010) (S.N
- 2007)

33. Urban Planning in Harappan Culture (15 Marks 1. Discuss the importance of ethnoarchaeology in
- 2010) reconstructing the past citing Indian examples.
15 M (2020)
34. Comment in detail on the socio-cultural life of
the people of the Indus Valley Civilization (30 2. Ethnoarhaeological analysis of hunting activities
Marks- 2010) of contemporary tribal communities. 10M
(2019)
35. Examine Gorden Childe’s statement ‘Neolithic
Culture is a Revolution (15 Marks 2010) 3. Ethno-archaeology as a research strategy. 10 M
(2018)

1.2 Palaeo – Anthropological evidences from 4. Write short notes on Ethno-archaeology. 10m
India with special reference to Siwaliks (2017)
and Narmada basin (Ramapithecus,
5. Discuss the relevance of art and craft traditions
Sivapithecus & Narmada Man).
in the understanding of Indian archaeology. 15m
(2017)
1. Discuss the morphological features and 6. Ethno archaeological evidencesfor the survival of
phylogenetic position of Ramapithecus. (2021) hunting-gathering traditions. (2016)
2. Narmada man. 10 M (2020) 7. Discuss the importance of the ethno-
archaeological approach to the study of
3. Phylogenetic position and morphological
indigenous craft in India. (15Marks 2014)
features of Ramapithecus. 10M 2019
8. Colonial Ethnography. (12Marks - 2012)
4. Describe the salient features of Sivapithecus. 15
marks(2018)

5. Discuss the salient features of Ramapithecus.15m 2. Demographic profile of India: Ethnic and
(2017) linguistic elements in the Indian population
and their distribution. Indian population
6. Delineate the salient characteristics of ‘ Narmada – factors influencing its structure &
man’ and examine its phylogentic significance. growth.
(2016)

7. Describe the Paleoanthropological fossil finds 1. Dravidian languages. 10 M (2020)

from Siwalik Hills. Examine the contribution
of Siwalik fossils to paleoanthropological 2. Distribution of Tibeto-Burman group of
knowledge. (15Marks 2015) languages in India. 10 M 2019

8. Describe the evolutionary significance of the 3. What are the various factors influencing
fossil finds of the Narmada Basin. (15Marks population growth in India? Discuss. 15 marks
2014) (2018)

9. Examine the debates related to Ramapithecus. 4. Write a shrort notes on Endangered Languages.
(10Marks - 2013) 10 M (2018)

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 ANTHROPOLOGY OPTIONAL IAS 2023 21

5. Write short notes on Austro-Asiatic linguistic

3.2 Caste system in India- structure and
groups in India. 10m (2017)
characteristics, Varna and caste, Theories
6. Give your assessment of the reason for the of origin of caste system, Dominant caste,
Caste mobility, Future of caste system,
imbalance in the sex-ratio in India. 20m (2017)
Jajmani system, Tribe- caste continuum.
7. Short notes on linguistic elements in Indian
population. 10 M (2016) 1. Relevance of tribe caste continuum (2021)

8. Briefly describe the classical model of ethnic and 2. Caste and social capital (2021)
linguistic classifications of Indian population.
Discuss its relevance today. (15Marks 2015) 3. Concept of dominant caste. 10 M (2020)

9. Outline the distribution of Dravidian languages 4. Explain the reasons of caste violence in India with
suitable examples. 20 M (2020)
in India and describe their cultural significance.
(15Marks 2014) (S.N - 1990) 5. Discuss the characteristics of caste system in
india. 20 M (2020)
10. Major linguistic divisions of India (10Marks
2014) 6. The jajmani system and contemporary market
economy. 10M 2019.
11. Contribution of H. H. Risley to the ‘Aryan’ debate
(10Marks 2014) 7. Explain the significance of tribe-caste continuum
in the present context. 15 marks(2018)
12. Negrito Elements in India (S.N - 2000)
8. Discuss the view that caste is not social
13. Controversy over the existence of Negrito racial stratification, but a system of hierarchy. 15
strain in Indian population. (S.N - 1992) marks(2018)

14. Describe the linguistic elements in Indian 9. Based on historical and contemporary evidences
population? (15Marks - 2011) discuss the future of caste system in India. 15
marks(2018)
15. Critically examine the factors responsible for the
high population growth in India and suggest 10. Discuss the impact of market economy on the
suitable measures for population Control. (30 + Jajmani system. 20m (2017)
15 Marks —2010)
11. Examine the structural and cultural cultural
theories of caste system in India. (2016)20M
3.1 The structure and nature of traditional 12. Relevance of caste in contemporary Indian
Indian Social System: Varnashram, politics. 10 m (2016)
Purushartha, Karma, Rina & Rebirth.
13. What do you understand by the dynamics of Caste
mobility? How did the concept of Sanskritization
1. Purushartha and righteous living today (2021) contribute to its functionality? (20Marks 2015)

2. Use of karma and rebirth in justifying the varna 14. Critically examine the concept of Tribe – Caste
system. 10 M 2019. continuum and its relevance in contemporary
India. (15Marks 2015)
3. Philosophy behind Purusharthas. 10 M (2018)
15. Define the concept ‘Dominant Caste’ and examine
4. Write short notes on varnashram and concept of its relevance in the contemporary Indian village
rina.10m (2018) with suitable examples. (20Marks 2014) (15Marks
- 2011) (S.N - 1999)
5. Youth Dormitory. (12Marks - 2012)
16. Do you think caste persists in contemporary
6. Philosophy behind Purushartha (15Marks - India? Critically discuss. (15Marks 2014) Tribe
2011) Caste continuum (10Marks 2014)

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22 IAS 2023 ANTHROPOLOGY OPTIONAL

17. Discuss how Louis Dumont explained caste

3.4 Impact of - Buddhism, Jainism, Islam and
system. (10Marks - 2013)
Christianity on Indian society.
18. What is Jajmani system? Examine the views
on Jajmani system as an egalitarian as well as 1. Critically assess the impact of Christianity on
exploitative system. Give reasons for its decline. tribal culture and identity. (2021)
(25Marks - 2013) 2. Discuss the impact of Islam on Indian society. 20
M (2020)
19. Examine the criticisms on the concept of
dominant caste. (15Marks - 2013) 3. Explain the impact of Buddhism and Jainism on
Indian society. 20 marks(2018)
20. Critically examine the prevalence of caste
ideology among religious minorities in the Indian 4. Discuss the social, political and economic status
of muslims in india.15m (2017)
context. (30Marks - 2012)
5. Explain how Buddhism influenced the economic
21. Gender and Customary Law. (10Marks - 2012) and cultural transformations of Indian society.
20m (2017)
22. Gender and Caste. (10Marks - 2012)
6. Impact of Jainism on Indian society. 10 M (2016)
23. Critically examine the theories of Origin of Castes.
(15Marks - 2011) 7. Islam and Matriliny. (10Marks 2015)

24. Examine the role of the caste system in the 8. Discuss the contribution of Islam to the composite
culture of India. (15Marks 2014)
present political context. (15 Marks — 2010)
9. Describe what is known of Harappan Religion.
25. Is the present political System strengthening the Have some of its elements continued into later
caste system? Discuss. (15 Marks — 2010) Hinduism? Discuss. (20Marks 2014)

10. Sufi tradition of Islam. (10Marks - 2013)

3.3 Sacred Complex & Nature- Man- Spirit
Complex:
4. Emergence and growth of anthropology in
India: Contributions of the 18th, 19th and
1. Explain the impact of the concept of nature- early 20th Century scholar-administrators.
Contributions of Indian anthropologists to
man-spirit complex on sustainable use of natural
tribal and caste studies.
resources with suitable examples. (2021)

2. Critically examine the contributions of Makhan

1. Examine the contributions of S C Roy in
Jha and B. N. Saraswati to the study of sacred highlighting the role of customary laws in tribal
complexes in India. (2018) life. (2021)

3. Write short notes on Nature- Man- Spirit 2. Discuss the contribution of N K Bose in
Complex.10m (2017) understanding tribal communities and their
place in Indian civilization. (2021)
4. Sacred complex as a dimension of Indian
3. Contributions of [Link] to Indian anthropology.
civilization (10Marks 2015)
10 M (2020)
5. Describe the concept of ‘Sacred Complex’ with 4. Write about the role of colonial administration in
an ethnographic example. (15Marks 2014) the development of anthropology in India. 15M
2019.
6. Examine Nature-man-spirit complex as an
ecological concept. (15Marks - 2013) 5. Give an account of the contributions of Iravati
Karve and [Link] to the analysis of caste and
7. Sacred Geography. (12Marks - 2012) race in India. 10+10=20. 2019

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 ANTHROPOLOGY OPTIONAL IAS 2023 23

6. Discuss the contribution of S. C Roy in the study

5.1 Indian Village: Significance of village
of tribal cultures in India. 15 marks (2018)
study in India; Indian village as a social
7. Compare and contrast the economic typology system; Traditional and changing patterns
of settlement and inter-caste relations;
of tribes given by different anthropologists. 20
Agrarian relations in Indian villages;
marks (2018) Impact of globalization on Indian villages.
8. Discuss the contribution of Nirmal Kumar bose to
the understanding of Indian society. 20m (2017)
1. Examine how structural transformation
9. Discuss the contribution of L.P Vidyarthi and in economy is affecting traditional social
relationships in agrarian society. (2021)
[Link] to the study of Indian tribes.
2. Describe the different settlement patterns in
10. Discuss the contribution of MN Srinivas to the
rural India. 20 M (2020)
study of Indian society. Examine the influence
of British social anthropologists on his ideas. 3. Discuss the impact of globalization on Indian
(15Marks 2015) villages. 15 M (2020)

11. Discuss the contributions of S. C. Roy to 4. Identify the theoretical concepts that have
understanding the tribes of India. (20Marks emerged out of village studies in India. 20 M
2014) 2019.

12. Examine the anthropological contributions 5. Panchayati raj as a facilitator of social change in
dealing with tribes and Indian civilization. (20 rural society. 15 M 2019.
Marks - 2013) 6. Discuss the impact of media on the social life of
Indian villages. 15M 2019
13. Discuss the contributions of H. D. Sankalia to
prehistoric anthropology in India. (20Marks - 7. Describe the impact of industrialization on the
2013) economic and social aspects of India’s villages.
15M 2019
14. Assess the contributions of early 20th century
ethnographic tradition to Indian anthropology. 8. Discuss the impact of market economy on rural
(15Marks - 2013) villages. 15 marks (2018)

15. Trace the trajectory of encyclopedic works on 9. Give a critical evaluation of any one anthropological
tribes and castes of South India with special village study in india.15m (2017)
Reference to Ananthakrishna Iyer’s contribution. 10. Examine nature of interplay of little and great
(20Marks - 2012) traditions in the context of globalization.
(2016)15m
16. Compare the contributions of S.C. Roy and Verrier
Elwin to tribal ethnographies in India. (20Marks 11. Explain Indian village as a social system with
- 2012) example. (2016)20m

17. Evaluate the contribution of American 12. Describe the traditional patterns of settlement of
anthropologists to Indian anthropology. Indian villages. (2016)20M
(30Marks - 2011)
13. Examine the contribution of village studies
18. Assess the contribution of Varrier Elwin to Indian towards the understanding of Indian social
system. (20Marks 2015)
anthropology. (15Marks - 2011)
14. Discuss the impact of Globalization on Village
19. Assess the contributions of M.N. Srinivas towards
economy in India. (15Marks 2015)
Indian Anthropology in general. Add a note on
his understanding in the context of studying 15. Examine the impacts of green revolution on rural
social mobility in India, (20+10 Marks — 2010) poor. (15Marks - 2013)

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24 IAS 2023 ANTHROPOLOGY OPTIONAL

16. How has globalization impacted agrarian 6. Describe the media as an instrument for social
relations in the last two decades? (20Marks - change.15m (2017)
2012)
7. Discuss the impact of panchayati raj institution
17. Indigenous knowledge. (12Marks - 2012) on the empowerment of rural women in india.
15m (2017)
18. Discuss contributions of S.C. Dube towards
understanding of the Indian village. (15 Marks — 8. How is process of tribe caste continuum different
2010) from sanskritization.(2016)15M

19. Participatory Rural Appraisal. (12Marks - 2012) 9. What do you understand by the dynamics of Caste
mobility? How did the concept of Sanskritization
contribute to its functionality? (20Marks 2015)
5.2 Linguistic and Religious minorities and
10. Panchayatiraj institutions and social change
their Social, Political & Economic status:
(10Marks 2015)

11. Examine the Social implications of media &

1. Delineate the constitutional safeguard for communication technology (20Marks 2015)
religious minorities in India. (2021)
12. Great tradition and little tradition (10Marks 2014)
2. What are the social and political problems of (S.N - 1996) (S.N - 1987)
religious minorities in India. 20 M (2020)
13. Indian farmers are not slow to react to economic
3. Linguistic minorities in India. 10 M (2020) opportunities. Discuss this statement. (15Marks
- 2013)
4. Discuss the problems faced by religious minorities
in India. (15Marks 2015) 14. Critique of the concept of Great and Little
Tradition. (15Marks – 2011)
5. Critically examine the ‘book view’ and the ‘field
view’ of social reality. (20Marks - 2012) 15. Modernity has entered Indian character and
society, but it has done so through assimilation,
6. What are the issues and socio-economic not replacement.” Discuss. (30Marks - 2011)
problems arising out of being a religious
minority? Discuss. 16. Universalization and Parochialization (15 Marks
— 2010) (S.N - 1997) (S.N - 1985)

5.3 Indigenous and exogenous processes

of socio-cultural change in Indian 6.1 Tribal situation in India: Bio-genetic
society: Sanskritization, Westernization, variability, Linguistic & Socio-economic
Modernization; Inter-play of little and characteristics of tribal populations &
great traditions; Panchayati raj and social their distribution.
change; Media and social change.

1. Concept of tribe and Indian census (2021)

1. Ethnic media and social awareness (2021) 2. Elucidate the linguistic classification of Indian
tribes. 15 M (2020)
2. Discuss the role of Panchayati Raj Institutions in
transforming traditional power hierarchy in rural 3. What are the salient issues faced by pastoral
India. (2021) communities in India? Discuss with suitable
examples. 15M 2019
3. Concept of Sanskritization. 10 M (2020)
4. Bio-genetic variability of Indian tribes(2016)10m
4. Khap panchayat. 10 M (2020)
5. Elwin – Ghurye debate on Tribes. (10Marks
5. Discuss how the elements of little and great 2015)
traditions combine in the emergence of social/
political/religious movements giving any one 6. Socioeconomic characteristics of Shifting
example to illustrate the issue. 20M 2019 cultivators. (10Marks 2015)

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 ANTHROPOLOGY OPTIONAL IAS 2023 25

7. Biogenetic variations of Indian tribes (10Marks 7. Discuss how constitutional provisions in India
2014) have built in mechanisms for dealing with
the problem of land alienation in tribal areas.
8. Social and economic marginalization of tribal (20Marks 2015)
people (10Marks 2014)
8. Discuss the Sociocultural, Economic and
9. Threat to tribal languages in India.(10Marks - Psychological constraints responsible for low
2013) literacy in Tribal areas. (15Marks 2015)

10. Linguistic classification of Indian tribes.(10Marks 9. Discuss the impact of land alienation on the
- 2013) tribes of Central India. (15Marks 2014)

11. Discuss the concept of ‘indigenous people’ as 10. Left-wing extremism and Tribals in India.
per the relevant UN convention. Are tribals of (15Marks - 2011)
India indigenous people? Comment. (20Marks -
2012) 11. Discuss alternatives for shifting cultivators in
the context of ecological costs and humanistic
12. Discuss the linkages between language, concerns. (20Marks - 2013)
territoriality and kinship among the tribes of
NorthEast India. (30Marks - 2012) 12. Education and health among tribal Women. (15
Marks — 2010)
13. Discuss the distinctive features of tribes in North
east India. (30Marks - 2011) 13. The problem of bonded Labour among Indian
tribes. (15 Marks — 2010)
14. “Tribes in India are not homogeneous group.”
14. Land and forest are the twin problems of the
Discuss. (30Marks - 2011)
tribes. Explain. (40 Marks — 2010)
15. Future of Hunting and Gathering Tribes (15Marks
15. Critically examine the various structural
- 2011)
constraints in the education development of
16. Discuss the relevance of traditional wisdom and Scheduled Tribes. (30 Marks-2010)
knowledge of the tribes with reference to health
in the present day context. (20 Marks — 2010)
6.3 Developmental projects and their impact
on tribal Displacement and problems
6.2 Problems of the tribal Communities: of Rehabilitation: Development of
Land alienation, Poverty, Indebtedness, forest policy and Tribals. Impact of
Low literacy, Poor educational facilities, Urbanization and Industrialization on
Unemployment, Underemployment, tribal populations.
Health and nutrition.

1. Urbanization and tribal institutions (2021)

1. Examine the factors responsible for malnutrition 2. Discuss the impact of Forest Rights Act 2006
in tribal India and suggest interventions required on the livelihood and culture of tribal people in
to overcome the problem. (2021) India. (2021)
2. Delineate the factors influencing fertility in Indian 3. Explain the impact successive Land Acquisition
population. (2021) Acts on tribal social organization. (2021)
3. Elucidate the problems of land alienation among 4. Discuss the problems involved in rehabilitation
tribals of India. 15 M (2020) and resettlement of tribals displaced due to
development projects in India.
4. Issues related to tribal education. 10 M 2019
5. Explain the impact of development induced
5. Write a short notes on indebtedness among displacement among tribal people in India with
tribal communities.10m(2017) examples. 20 M (2020)
6. Describe the impact of displacement on the health 6. What has been the impact of development
and nutritional status of the tribal communities. projects on the environment and livelihood of
20m (2017) forest dwelling tribes? 15M 2019

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26 IAS 2023 ANTHROPOLOGY OPTIONAL

7. Discuss the significance and implementation 6. OBCs among non-Hindu communities (2018)
of ‘Recognition of Forest Right’s Act 2006’. 15
marks(2018) 7. Discuss the constitutional safeguards for the
schedule caste.15m (2017)
8. Examine the advancement made in the land
acquisition and rehabilitation Act of 2013 over 8. Write short notes on other backward class.10 m
the land acquisition Act of 1894. 15 marks(2018) (2017)

9. Impact of industrialization on schedule tribe 9. Give a critical appraisal of any one tribal
population of Jharkhand.(2016)10m 6) Discuss development programme during XII th five year
the impact of Globalization on the livelihood of plan. Give suggestion for any improvement in
the tribal populations. (20Marks 2014) the programme.15m(2017)

10. Forest policy and tribes (10Marks 2014) 10. Write in detail various provisions provided by
the constitution of india for the schedule tribes
11. Impacts of sanctuaries and national parks on under V and VI schedules. (2016)20m
tribal populations.(10Marks - 2013)
11. Examine the factors responsible for exploitation
12. Commodification of Tribal Art. (12Marks - 2012) of schedule caste in india.(2016)20m

13. Critically examine the National Policy on 12. Explain the difficulties experienced by schedule
Rehabilitation and Resettlement substantiating tribes with regard to implementation of
it with experiences from different parts of India. ’recognition of forcat rights act 2006’.(2016)15m
(30Marks - 2012)
13. Critically compare ‘Affirmative Action’ of USA
14. Forest Rights Act—2006. (15Marks - 2011) and ‘Protective discrimination’ for scheduled
tribes in India. (15Marks 2015)
15. Discuss the problem of displaced tribal
communities with the help of recent examples. 14. Critically examine the constitutional provisions
(30Marks - 2011) for safeguarding the interests of Scheduled
Tribes in India. (20Marks 2014)
16. The impact of Urbanization and Industrialization
on tribal women. (15Marks - 2011) 15. Role of Governor in Fifth Schedule areas.
(10Marks 2015)
17. Tribal displacement. (15 Marks — 2010)
16. Discuss the Social disabilities suffered by
scheduled castes.(15Marks – 2013)
7.1 Problems of Exploitation and Deprivation
of S.C’s, S.T’s and O.B.C’s: Constitutional 17. Using suitable examples bring out the historical
safeguards for S.C’s and S.T’s. processes of the social exclusion of denotified
tribes. (20Marks - 2012)

18. Panchayati Raj and the tribes (15 Marks —

1. Elucidate the problems and challenges in 2010)
educational attainment of the Scheduled Tribes.
(2021)
7.2 Social Change and Contemporary Tribal
2. Critically evaluate the state of implementation
societies; Impact of modern democratic
of constitutional safeguards for the scheduled
institutions; Development programmes
castes. 15 M (2020)
and welfare measures on Tribals and
3. Describe the provisions under VI th schedule of weaker sections.
Indian constitution. 15 M (2020)

4. What are the Constitutional safeguards to protect 1. Describe the functions of tribal research institutes
the interests of Indian tribes. 15 M in India. 15 M (2020)

5. What has been the impact of non-hindu 2. Discuss the effect of job reservations in alleviating
religionson the emancipation of scheduled unemployment among tribal people of India. 15
castes in India. 15M M (2020)

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 ANTHROPOLOGY OPTIONAL IAS 2023 27

3. Critically assess the existing plans and 12. Examine the impact of non-tribal contact on
programmes meant for tribal welfare. 15M socio-cultural institutions of tribal people with
suitable examples. (15Marks - 2013)
4. Identify some special programmes for PVTGs. 15
M 13. Compare the approach adopted towards
tribal communities during Colonial and
5. Discuss the nature of Social change in Tribal India postindependence periods. (30Marks - 2011)
under the impact of Developmental programmes.
(15Marks 2015) 14. Discuss and compare the approaches towards
the tribes during colonial and post independent
6. Tribes as Indigenous Culture India. (30 Marks — 2010)

7. How have modern democratic institutions 15. Do you find any significant change in the
influenced the Indian tribal societies? Assess. approaches towards the tribes during colonial
and post independent India? Assess. (15 Marks
8. Illustrate with suitable examples) the impact — 2010)
of Developmental Programmes on tribes and
16. Tribal unrest in Central India (20 Marks)
weaker sections.

8.1 Impact of Hinduism, Buddhism,

7.3 The Concept of Ethnicity: Ethnic conflicts Christianity, Islam and other religions on
and political developments; Unrest among tribal societies:
tribal communities; Regionalism and
demand for autonomy; Pseudo-tribalism;
Social change among the tribes during 1. Explain the impact of Hinduism on tribal people
colonial and post-Independent India. of India. 15 M (2020)

2. Describe the impact of Buddhism on tribal

population of India. 15 M
1. Cultural diversity and multiculturalism (2021)
3. Impact of Christianity on Indian tribes.10 m
2. Concept of ethnicity. 10 M (2020) (2017)
3. Discuss the various factors resulting in tribal 4. Discuss the impact of islam on schedule tribes of
unrest in various parts of India. 15 marks(2018) india.(2016)15m
4. Examine the colonial administrators’ view 5. Islam and Matriliny. (10Marks 2015
that Indian villages can be considered as ‘little
republics’. 15 marks(2018) 6. Discuss the impact of Hinduism on the status of
Tribal women in Central India (15Marks 2015)
5. Write short notes on ethnicity and regionalism.10m
(2017) 7. Impact of Christianity on tribes (10Marks 2014)

8. Using ethnographic examples highlight the

6. Tribe as a colonial construct(2016)10m
processes of religious conversions in Tribal India.
7. Short notes on The role of regionalism plays (20Marks - 2012)
in demand for autonomy among Indian tribes. 9. Discus the impact of Hindu Society on tribal
(2016)10m population in India. (30Marks - 2011)
8. Rights over resources and Tribal unrest (10Marks
2015)
8.2 Tribe & Nation state-comparative study
9. Discuss the rise of ethno nationalism among of tribal communities in India & other
Indian tribes with specific example. (15Marks countries.
2014)

10. What are the significant factors responsible for 1. Discuss with appropriate examples how tribal
tribal unrest? (15Marks 2014) unrest may be understood as emerging out of
an incompatibility between tribes and nation-
11. Ethnic movements in India. (10Marks - 2013) state. 20M

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28 IAS 2023 ANTHROPOLOGY OPTIONAL

2. Distinctive cultural features of tribes of Andaman

Islands (2018) 10. Critically examine the role of NGOs in promoting
health & Education in tribal areas.(15Marks
3. Critically evaluate the term tribe, as compared to 2014)
term indigenous in some other countries. 20m
11. Describe the history administration in the colonial
(2017)
period. (15Marks 2014)
4. Critically examine the relationship between tribal
12. Critically evaluate the National Tribal Policy.
communities and the Nation-State on issues of
(15Marks 2014)
governance. (20Marks - 2012)
13. The concept of PTG (10Marks 2014)
5. Discuss the Anthropological understanding
of rising ethnicity among Indian Tribes in the 14. Government Action towards Left Wing Extremism.
context of Nation Building. (10Marks - 2013)

15. Role of Gramasabha under PESA. (10Marks -

9.1 History of administration of tribal areas: 2013)
Tribal policies, plans, Programmes of tribal
development and their implementation. 16. Fifth Schedule and Sixth Schedule of the
The concept of Primitive Tribal Groups, constitution are built on the foundations laid
their distribution, special programmes by the colonial Government. Discuss. (20Marks
for their development. Role of N.G.O.s in - 2013)
tribal development.
17. Discuss the Significance of cultural and
administrative factors in tribal development.
(15Marks - 2013)
1. Discuss the interventions made by the Non-
Governmental Organizations for empowering 18. Discuss the criticism leveled against anthropology
tribal women. (2021) in the context of ‘Isolation, and assimilation
debate’ on tribal populations. (20Marks - 2013)
2. Critically discuss the role of N.G.O.s in tribal
development. 15 M 2019 19. Discuss how British policies dispossessed tribal’s
of their communal properties and agricultural
3. Discuss the salient features of PESA Act of 1996 lands. (15Marks - 2013)
and attempt a comparison with the features of
the VI Schedule15 marks (2018) 20. Examine the relevance of Tribal Panchsheel
by Jawaharlal Nehru in the light of emerging
4. Write short notes on particularly vulnerable tribal Development practices. (20Marks - 2012)
groups (PTG) 10M (2017)
21. Tribal Panchsheel. (15Marks - 2011)
5. Discuss the emergence, salient features and
limitations of tribal sub-plan 15m (2017)
9.2 Role of Anthropology in Tribal and Rural
6. Critically examine the role of NGOs and Development.
missionaries in transformation of schedule tribes
in central india.(2016)15m
1. Examine the strengths and weaknesses of
7. Discuss the various tribal development programs anthropology in the context of its role in tribal
an plans have impacted the process of social and rural development. 20 marks (2018)
transformation among tribes.(2016)15m
2. Discuss the role of anthropology in understanding
8. Relevance of tribal Panchsheel today.(10Marks the loss of livelihood of tribal communities due
2015) to economic and ecological factors.15m (2017)

9. Recently NGO’s have been critiqued for interfering 3. Describe how anthropological knowledge
with developmental process inn Tribal heartland. and methods are useful in rural development.
Critically comment. (20Marks 2015) (2016)15m

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 ANTHROPOLOGY OPTIONAL IAS 2023 29

4. Examine in detail the role of Anthropology perspective with respect to Kashmir/Nagaland/

in planning for Tribal development. (15Marks Bodoland/Gorkhaland agitation. 20 M (2020)
2015)
5. Anthropological understanding of
5. Critically assess the role of anthropologists in
rural development. (20Marks 2014) (S.N - 1997) communalism.

6. Using examples, comment on how anthropology 6. Ethnicity and regionalism

can be utilized in policy making. (20Marks -
2012) ] 7. Anthropological interpretation of ethnic and
political movements. (2016)10m

9.3 Contributions of Anthropology to 8. Critically examine the concept of communalism

the Understanding of Regionalism, and its relevance for multi-religious and
Communalism, & Ethnic and Political
multiethnic polity of India. (20Marks 2015)
Movements.
9. Factors contributing to communalism. (15Marks
1. Identify the causes of tribal unrest with special - 2011)
reference to North East India. (2021)
10. Analyze the factors influencing tribal regionalism,
2. Factionalism and politics in rural India (2021) citing Indian examples. (30 Marks — 2010)

3. Politics of recognition and deprivation (2021) 11. In what ways has anthropology contributed
4. Discuss the regionalism and demand for to the understanding of ethnic and political
autonomy in India from anthropological movements in India?

**********

[Link]