Breakdown of the UPSC CSE 2016 Essay Paper

Let's start with Section A

1. The necessity of gender equality for true development
2. The relationship between need, greed, and its impact on society
3. The issue of water disputes in the federal structure of India
4. The role of innovation in economic growth and societal welfare

Now, let's move onto Section B

1. Cooperative federalism: A myth or a reality?
2. The impact of Cyberspace and the Internet on human civilization in the long run
3. The problem of near jobless growth in India: An anomaly or an outcome of economic reforms?
4. The Digital Economy: A leveler or a source of economic inequality?

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Looking at the questions, it is evident that the majority of them can be connected to current affairs. The topics of gender equality, water disputes, and economic reforms were frequently discussed in the media. Similarly, the questions in section B about jobless growth and digital economy are closely linked to recent events like the demonetization and the push for digital India.

It is clear from the paper that the UPSC is focusing on the current challenges that India is facing. The questions are designed to test the candidate's understanding of these challenges and their ability to provide insightful analysis. The paper also encourages creative writing, giving candidates the opportunity to showcase their unique perspectives and ideas.

The essay paper does not require any special preparation. The knowledge gained from preparing for the preliminary and GS main papers should suffice. The key focus should be on improving one's writing style, as that can make a significant difference in the final score.

The emphasis on current affairs and multidimensional analysis shows that the UPSC expects candidates to be well-informed about the world around them. It is not enough to simply memorize facts from books. Candidates are expected to have a deep understanding of the issues and be able to analyze them from different perspectives.

1. Quotations for Essay Paper
2. UPSC Mains 2016 GS 1 Analysis
3. List of Essay Topics from UPSC Mains

As a candidate, it is important to develop your own viewpoints on these topics. Engaging in discussions, reading various articles, and listening to debates can help in this process. The essay paper is a reflection of your understanding and analytical skills. So, prepare accordingly.