UPSC CSE Mains 2026 · GS3 · 10 marks · 150 words

Discuss how the contradiction between ‘rapid infrastructure development’ and ‘disaster-risk reduction’ in ecologically-sensitive areas of India can be managed, with suitable examples.

Theme

T43 Fragile Himalayan ecosystems: tourism & infrastructure

What UPSC asks in this theme

UPSC asks whether Himalayan states have crossed their carrying capacity due to tourism, and how to balance infrastructure with disaster risk in ecologically sensitive areas.

What to cover

Carrying capacity concept; tourism pressure (J&K, Himachal, Uttarakhand)
Joshimath, Char Dham road, hydropower debates
Eco-sensitive zones, EIA, risk-informed planning

Writing the answer

Give balanced arguments and concrete safeguards

These notes are for the whole theme, built from all 2 of its PYQs. UPSC does not publish model answers.

This question also needs

T160 Disaster management frameworks: DM Act, Sendai, resilience, community, dam safety T135 Infrastructure & investment models: PPP, Gati Shakti, concession agreements

On the map

Map module 5: Hazard zones

More PYQs from this theme

GS12015
The states of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand are reaching the limits of their ecological carrying capacity due to tourism. Critically evaluate.

All 20 GS3 2026 questions · Technology, Economy, Environment, Security & Disaster Management · Report a typo