GS1 2025 Q15 15 marks 250 words Modern Technology

UPSC Mains 2025 GS1 Q15 — Modern Technology

How can Artificial Intelligence (AI) and drones be effectively used along with GIS and RS techniques in locational and areal planning? (Answer in 250 words)

Question Decoded — examiner's intent

Directive verbs
How can
Scope keywords
Artificial Intelligence (AI)dronesGIS and RS techniqueslocational and areal planning
Implicit sub-parts
  • What is the synergy between the four technologies (AI, Drones, GIS, RS) in a data-processing cycle?
  • How do these technologies optimize 'Locational Planning' (site selection, facility placement)?
  • How do these technologies optimize 'Areal Planning' (regional development, urban sprawl management, resource mapping)?
  • What are the challenges or limitations in integrating these technologies for planning in India?
Common pitfalls
  • Treating the technologies as isolated tools rather than explaining their integration (e.g., AI analyzing data collected by Drones/RS).
  • Failing to distinguish between 'Locational' (point-based/micro) and 'Areal' (polygon-based/macro) planning.
  • Neglecting real-world Indian applications like PM Gati Shakti, SVAMITVA, or AMRUT 2.0.
  • Focusing too much on technical definitions of RS/GIS instead of their application in planning.
Dimensions required
Technological IntegrationEconomic/InfrastructuralEnvironmental/Resource ManagementGovernance and Policy ImplementationDisaster Resilience
Marks allocation hint

Devote 50 words to defining the synergy between AI, Drones, GIS, and RS. Spend 75 words on Locational Planning (specific sites/logistics) and 75 words on Areal Planning (regional/land-use). Use the remaining 50 words for implementation challenges and a forward-looking conclusion citing government initiatives.

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