UPSC Prelims PYQ

UPSC Prelims Environmental governance Questions

5 Environmental governance questions from previous UPSC Prelims papers, from the latest year backwards, each with its answer and explanation.

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Questions
5
Years covered
2016–2026
Exam years
4
With answers
5

Environmental governance questions by year

2026 🔒2 2022 🔒1 2018 🔒1 2016 🔒1

UPSC Prelims Environmental governance Questions

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  1. Q1 2026 Prelims GS

    In a multi-ethnic district where both economic competition and historical grievances frequently led to community tensions, a flashpoint has arisen with a Government decision to allocate land for a waste management facility near a tribal hamlet, sparking protests by the tribal community, which claimed that the land was sacred and critical to their cultural identity. At the same time, urban residents and local industries supported the project, citing severe solid waste challenges and health concerns due to lack of a proper disposal site. The conflict has escalated with road blockades, social media campaigns, and allegations of police excesses.

    As a responsible Government official, you are tasked with resolving the situation through mediation, ensuring a sustainable outcome that balances environmental needs, tribal rights, and urban public health.

    Consider the following statements with reference to the above:

    1. A successful conflict resolution process must begin with acknowledging the cultural concerns of the protesting tribal community before discussing technical alternatives.
    2. The Government should move ahead with the project without delay to address urban health concerns, which outweigh the sentiments of a small group.
    3. Creating a multi-stakeholder dialogue platform — including tribal leaders, environmental experts, and municipal representatives — to build mutual understanding and help de-escalate tensions.
    4. Conducting an independent Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) and sharing findings transparently with both sides to facilitate evidence-based decision-making.

    Which of the statements given above would contribute to the resolution process?

    Conflict resolutionEnvironmental governanceGovernance
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  2. Q2 2026 Prelims GS

    Which of the following statements in relation to NIRANTAR (National Institute for Research and Application of Natural Resources to Transform, Adapt and Build Resilience), a platform of institutions under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, is/are correct?

    1. Ecosystem Survey and Analysis is a vertical under this platform, the lead institute of which is Botanical Survey of India, Kolkata.
    2. Research and Management of Ecosystem Service is a vertical under this platform, the lead institute of which is Central Zoo Authority, New Delhi.
    3. Capacity Development Support is a vertical under this platform, the lead institute of which is Indian Institute of Forest Management, Bhopal.

    EnvironmentEnvironmental governanceMoefcc
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