“Economic sanctions are an important instrument of foreign policy, but their effectiveness depends on geopolitical circumstances and economic interdependence.” Discuss with reference to Western sanctions against Russia. 

“India's efforts to prevent evergreening of pharmaceutical patents reflect the need to balance intellectual property protection with public health priorities.”

“The recurring detention of Indian fishermen by the Sri Lankan Navy highlights the intersection of maritime boundary management, livelihood security and bilateral relations.” Examine the major challenges involved and suggest measures to address the issue.

“Sample-return missions represent an important advancement in planetary exploration and our understanding of the Solar System.” Discuss the scientific significance of Japan’s MMX mission and examine the broader importance of international planetary exploration.

“Critical minerals are becoming central to both the global clean energy transition and national economic security.” Discuss the significance of critical minerals for India. Examine the challenges in securing their supply and suggest measures to build a resilient and sustainable mineral supply chain.

“Monetary policy decisions of the US Federal Reserve have significant implications for emerging economies like India.” Explain the transmission channels through which US interest rate hikes affect the Indian economy. How can India reduce its vulnerability to external financial shocks?

“Earthquakes occurring along tectonically active coastal regions can trigger cascading disasters, including tsunamis.” Explain the factors responsible for tsunami generation and discuss the measures required to reduce earthquake-related risks.

“Phasing out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies and redirecting public investment towards renewable energy are important steps towards sustainable development.” Discuss the environmental and economic implications of fossil fuel subsidy reforms in India. 

“Non-tariff barriers can restrict export opportunities even when customs duties are low.” Explain the challenges posed by non-tariff barriers in India–China trade relations and suggest measures to improve market access for Indian exporters.

“Contemporary conflicts in West Asia and Ukraine demonstrate that regional wars can have far-reaching consequences for global economic stability and international security.” Discuss their implications for India and suggest measures to safeguard India’s national interests. 

“Drug trafficking is not merely a law-and-order problem but also a challenge to public health, social stability and internal security.” Discuss the challenges posed by drug trafficking in Punjab and suggest a comprehensive strategy to address the problem. 

“Declining fertility rates and population ageing are creating significant social and economic challenges in several developed countries.” Discuss with reference to Japan and examine the lessons India can learn from this demographic transition.

“The development of advanced conventional weapons has significant implications for regional security and nuclear diplomacy.” Discuss with reference to the reported consideration of the GBU-43/B MOAB against Iran's underground nuclear facilities.

“Dignity, emotional intelligence and accountability are essential for effective public administration.” Discuss with reference to allegations of abusive behaviour by senior civil servants towards subordinate officers.

“Delimitation is essential for representative democracy, but it may also create challenges for Indian federalism.” Discuss the constitutional provisions governing delimitation in India and examine its implications for regional representation.

How can trade disputes between major powers intensify internal political divisions within federal states? Discuss with reference to Canada–US tensions and Alberta’s concerns over equalization payments.

Examine the implications of stricter H-1B visa regulations in the United States for India's IT industry and bilateral economic relations. Suggest measures India can adopt to address the emerging challenges.

“Sustainable infrastructure development requires a balance between economic growth and environmental conservation.” Discuss in the context of highway development in India.

“The right to a clean and healthy environment is an integral part of the right to life under Article 21.” Discuss the role of the judiciary in addressing air and noise pollution, with reference to environmental jurisprudence in India.

What is the significance of SEBI's decision to reintroduce the Volume Weighted Average Price (VWAP) method for derivatives expiry-day settlements? Discuss its implications for market stability, price discovery and investor protection.