Part of the General Studies-III question bank for OPSC (OAS) Mains.
A comprehensive, topic-wise practice set of 28 questions on Biodiversity & Conservation for OPSC (OAS) Mains General Studies-III. 12 of them have been set in an actual paper — the years and exams are printed against each (2026, 2024, 2023, 2022, 2018, 2017, 2006). The rest are practice questions on the same syllabus points.
Previous year questions
| No. | Question | Asked in |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Discuss the aim and goals of Kunming‑Montreal global biodiversity framework. Mention India's commitments and initiatives to achieve the goals and targets of this framework giving suitable examples. | UPSC Mains GS-III 2026 10m,150w |
| 2 | Discuss the evolution of India's biodiversity legal framework and critically examine the key changes and impact of the NBA Regulations, 2025. | OPSC OAS Mains 2024 15m,250w |
| 3 | Examine the diverse conservation strategies adopted for the protection of endangered species in India. Assess the efficacy of protected areas, captive breeding programs and community‑led conservation initiatives in ensuring long‑term biodiversity preservation. | OPSC OAS Mains 2023 15m,250w |
| 4 | Analyze the multifaceted role of Non‑Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in biodiversity conservation and environmental protection. How do these entities complement governmental frameworks and what structural, financial and operational challenges hinder their effectiveness? | OPSC OAS Mains 2023 15m,250w |
| 5 | Comment on the National Wetland Conservation Programme initiated by the Government of India and name a few India's wetlands of international importance included in the Ramsar Sites. | UPSC Mains GS-III 2023 250w/15m |
| 6 | Explain biodiversity with respect to its types at all biological levels. Discuss different patterns of biodiversity. | OPSC OAS Mains 2022 15m,250w – Group B |
| 7 | What is wetland? Explain the Ramsar concept of 'wise use' in the context of wetland conservation. Cite two examples of Ramsar sites from India. | UPSC Mains GS-III 2018 — |
| 8 | How does biodiversity vary in India? How is the Biological Diversity Act, 2002 helpful in conservation of flora and fauna? | UPSC Mains GS-III 2018 — |
| 9 | What measures would you like to suggest for the conservation of Natural Resources? | OPSC OAS Mains 2017 GS Paper-I Q.13(a) · 10 marks |
| 10 | 'Climate Change' is a global problem. How India will be affected by climate change? How Himalayan and coastal states of India will be affected by climate change? | UPSC Mains GS-III 2017 — |
| 11 | Discuss the importance of, and India's achievement in, Biosphere Reserves. | OPSC OAS Mains 2006 GS Paper-I Q.13(a) · 10 marks |
| 12 | Write a brief note on: India's National Bird. | OPSC OAS Mains 2006 GS Paper-I Q.14(e) · 4 marks |
Practice questions
| No. | Question | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 13 | Elaborate on the concept and reasons of ecological deficits along with their impact on sustainable development in global context. | — |
| 14 | Ecotone is a transitional zone between two ecosystems. In this light mention the characteristics and importance of ecotone. | — |
| 15 | Ecosystems are critical to our survival because they provide a range of functions that support life on Earth. Discuss. | — |
| 16 | What do you understand about secondary productivity? How does it differ from primary productivity? Also, discuss mutualism through suitable examples. | — |
| 17 | Discuss the importance of the Sulphur Cycle. Also discuss the effect of human activities on the sulphur cycle. | — |
| 18 | Discuss the ecological significance of tropical rainforests. How can tropical rainforests help achieve a sustainable global environment? | — |
| 19 | The marine ecosystem plays a crucial role in sustaining biodiversity and has far-reaching implications for both the environment and human society. Discuss the significance of the marine ecosystem and the various threats it faces. | — |
| 20 | What do you understand about eutrophication? Discuss the effects of eutrophication along with the mitigation measures. | — |
| 21 | Coral reefs are often referred to as the "rainforests of the sea." Explain. Comment on the common conservation challenges of Coral reef ecosystem and Rainforests and the measures needed to address them. | — |
| 22 | A healthy Marine ecosystem has the potential to make a healthy human life. Discuss how Marine Ecosystems can impact human life. | — |
| 23 | Briefly describe the key factors contributing to biodiversity loss in India's ecological hotspots along with required measures to mitigate further degradation. | — |
| 24 | Elaborate on the multidimensional importance of biodiversity conservation in the high seas, considering the recent UN meeting regarding a treaty for governing their use. Discuss the challenges and strategies for effective global governance of the High Seas. | — |
| 25 | Explain the significance of traditional ecological knowledge in biodiversity conservation. Discuss the integration of indigenous perspectives and practices into mainstream conservation efforts for sustainable management of natural resources. | — |
| 26 | Discuss the critical role of protected areas in biodiversity conservation efforts in India. | — |
| 27 | Define Green Accounting? Elucidate how its various types align with its objectives and significance of green accounting in advancing sustainable development. Additionally, identify potential implementation challenges associated with Green Accounting. | — |
| 28 | Reflecting upon the significance of historical water management systems of India, analyze whether these systems be modernized to address current water-related challenges. | — |
| 29 | Assess the potential areas and obstacles in implementing debt-for-nature swaps for strengthening environmental conservation efforts. | — |
| 30 | Enumerate the environmental and social benefits of carbon trading in India. How can carbon trading contribute to sustainable development and poverty alleviation in the country? | — |
| 31 | Evaluate the significance and objectives of major international agreements related to biodiversity conservation, such as the Convention on Biological Diversity, CITES, and the Convention on Conservation of Migratory Species. | — |
| 32 | 'Sixth mass extinction is one of the most serious environmental threats to the existence of civilization'. In light of the above statement, examine the international and national action framework and agreements to avert this crisis. | — |