In the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) Mains, the General Studies (GS) papers are crucial components of the exam. The GS papers are designed to assess the candidates' knowledge, analytical abilities, and understanding of various subjects relevant to the Indian society, governance, and the world. The GS papers consist of four papers (GS I, GS II, GS III, and GS IV) and cover a wide range of topics. Here's an overview of the type of questions asked in each GS paper:

GS Paper I: Indian Heritage and Culture, History, and Geography of the World and Society

• History: Questions on ancient, medieval, and modern Indian history. For example, questions on major historical events, prominent personalities, social and cultural movements, etc.
• Art and Culture: Questions related to Indian art, architecture, literature, music, dance, and other cultural aspects.
• World Geography: Questions on physical, economic, and social geography of the world, including significant geographical features, regions, etc.
• Indian Society: Questions on issues related to diversity, social empowerment, communalism, regionalism, etc.

GS Paper II: Governance, Polity, Social Justice, and International Relations

• Indian Polity: Questions on the Indian Constitution, political system, governance, and various constitutional bodies.
• Governance: Questions related to public policy, implementation, and challenges in governance.
• Social Justice: Questions on various social issues, welfare schemes, and the role of the government in addressing them.
• International Relations: Questions on India's foreign policy, bilateral and multilateral relations, international organizations, etc.

GS Paper III: Technology, Economic Development, Biodiversity, Environment, Security, and Disaster Management

• Indian Economy: Questions on various economic concepts, sectors, economic planning, and development policies.
• Science and Technology: Questions on recent developments in science and technology, and their applications in various sectors.
• Environment and Ecology: Questions on environmental conservation, biodiversity, climate change, etc.
• Internal Security: Questions on challenges to internal security and ways to address them.
• Disaster Management: Questions on the management of natural and man-made disasters.

GS Paper IV: Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude

• Ethics and Human Interface: Questions on ethics, moral values, and ethical dilemmas.
• Attitude: Questions on the role of attitude in the decision-making process.
• Aptitude: Questions on aptitude, reasoning, and problem-solving abilities.
• Emotional Intelligence: Questions on emotional intelligence and its application in governance and administration.

The questions in the GS papers are designed to test the candidate's comprehensive understanding of various subjects and their ability to analyze and articulate their thoughts clearly. It is essential to have a thorough knowledge of the subjects, along with a well-rounded perspective on current affairs and societal issues, to perform well in the GS papers of the UPSC CSE Mains.

Kinds of questions do the UPSC ask in the Mains :

Analyze: these types of questions require detailed analysis, pros, and cons and are supported by facts. Here, candidates’ need not present their views.

Critically Examine: these types of questions require suggestions and reforms and reasons for the recommended reforms along with the analysis, merits, and demerits supported with facts.

Discuss: In these types of questions, the answer should have both the pros and cons or should be a kind of discussion writing for and against the keyword, in general, a debate or argument kind backed up with facts and finally with a conclusion.

Elucidate: Here, they are required to make the question clear or explain or elaborate in detail. Candidates’ views on the matter are not required in these types of questions.

Comment/ Express your views: These type of questions requires candidates’ unique perspective. Right or wrong does not matter; what matters in answering this type of question is candidates' clear views supported with relevant facts.

Tips to Follow in UPSC Mains

Here are some quick tips to follow while answering questions in the UPSC Mains Exam.

Look for the keyword in the question, a question will have at least 2-3 keywords. Centering that keyword, construct your answer according to the need of the question.

Write five points about the keyword

Explain each point in three dimensions i.e. Socio-economic-political-geographical point of view for, against, and conclusion, What/why/how

Finally, to back up their answers with facts and add diagrams wherever required.

You will have to crack the Civil Services Examination conducted by the UPSC . It is conducted in 3 stages

1. Prelims
2. Mains
3. Interview

Syllabus:

IAS EXAMINATION

A. Preliminary Examination

The Examination shall comprise of two compulsory papers of 200 marks each.

Note :

(i) Both the question papers will be of the objective type (multiple choice questions).

(ii) The General Studies Paper-II of the Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination will be a qualifying paper with minimum qualifying marks fixed at 33%

(iii) Each paper will be of two hours duration.

Syllabi for the Examination

Part-A Preliminary Examination

Paper I - (200 marks) Duration : Two hours

Ø Current events of national and international importance.

Ø History of India and Indian National Movement.

Ø Indian and World Geography - Physical, Social, Economic Geography of India and the World.

Ø Indian Polity and Governance Constitution, Political System, Panchayati Raj, Public Policy, Rights Issues, etc.

Ø Economic and Social Development - Sustainable Development, Poverty, Inclusion, Demographics, Social Sector initiatives, etc.

Ø General issues on Environmental Ecology, Bio-diversity and Climate Change - that do not require subject specialisation

Ø General Science.

Paper II- (200 marks) Duration: Two hours

Ø Comprehension

Ø Interpersonal skills including communication skills;

Ø Logical reasoning and analytical ability

Ø Decision-making and problem-solving

Ø General mental ability

Ø Basic numeracy (numbers and their relations, orders of magnitude, etc.) (Class X level), Data interpretation (charts, graphs, tables, data sufficiency etc. Class X level)

Note 1 : Paper-II of the Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination will be a qualifying paper with minimum qualifying marks fixed at 33%

Note 2 : The questions will be of multiple choice, objective type.

Note 3: It is mandatory for the candidate to appear in both the Papers of Civil Services (Prelim) Examination for the purpose of evaluation. Therefore a candidate will be disqualified in case he/she does not appear in both the papers of Civil Services (Prelim) Examination.

Main Examination

The Main Examination is intended to assess the overall intellectual traits and depth of understanding of candidates rather than merely the range of their information and memory. The nature and standard of questions in the General Studies papers (Paper II to Paper V) will be such that a well-educated person will be able to answer them without any specialized study. The questions will be such as to test a candidate’s general awareness of a variety of subjects, which will have relevance for a career in Civil Services. The questions are likely to test the candidate’s basic understanding of all relevant issues, and ability to analyze, and take a view on conflicting socio- economic goals, objectives and demands. The candidates must give relevant, meaningful and succinct answers.

The scope of the syllabus for optional subject papers (Paper VI and Paper VII) for the examination is broadly of the honours degree level i.e. a level higher than the bachelors’ degree and lower than the masters’ degree. In the case of Engineering, Medical Science and law, the level corresponds to the bachelors’ degree.

QUALIFYING PAPERS ON INDIAN LANGUAGES AND ENGLISH

The aim of the paper is to test the candidates ability to read and understand serious discursive prose, and express his ideas clearly and correctly, in English and Indian Language concerned. The pattern of questions would be broadly as follows :

(i) Comprehension of given passages

(ii) Précis Writing

(iii) Usage and Vocabulary

(iv) Short Essays

Indian Languages :

(i) Comprehension of given passages

(ii) Precis Writing

(iii) Usage and Vocabulary

(iv) Short Essays

(v) Translation from English to the Indian language and vice-versa.

Note 1 : The Papers on Indian Languages and English will be of Matriculation or equivalent standard and will be of qualifying nature only. The marks obtained in these papers will not be counted for ranking.

Note2 : The candidates will have to answer the English and Indian Languages papers in English and the respective Indian language (except where translation is involved).

Papers

Essay ,250 marks ,Two essays of 125 marks each

GS-1 250 marks- Indian Heritage and Culture, History and Geography of the World and Society

GS-2 250 marks -Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice and International relations

GS-3 250 marks- Technology, Economic Development, Bio-diversity, Environment, Security and Disaster Management

GS-4 250 marks- Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude

OPTIONAL SUBJECT

PAPER-1 250 marks

OPTIONAL SUBJECT PAPER-2 250 marks

Total 1750 marks

PERSONALITY TEST 275 Marks

GRAND TOTAL 2025 Marks

DETAILED SYLLABUS

Essay: Candidates may be required to write essays on multiple topics. They will be expected to keep closely to the subject of the essay to arrange their ideas in orderly fashion and to write concisely. Credit will be given for effective and exact expression.

General Studies- I: Indian Heritage and Culture, History and Geography of the World and Society.

Ø Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times.

Ø Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the present- significant events, personalities, issues

Ø The Freedom Struggle - its various stages and important contributors /contributions from different parts of the country.

Ø Post-independence consolidation and reorganization within the country.

Ø History of the world will include events from 18th century such as industrial revolution, world wars, redrawal of national boundaries, colonization, decolonization, political philosophies like communism, capitalism, socialism etc.- their forms and effect on the society.

Ø Salient features of Indian Society, Diversity of India.

Ø Role of women and women’s organization, population and associated issues, poverty and developmental issues, urbanization, their problems and their remedies.

Ø Effects of globalization on Indian society

Ø Social empowerment, communalism, regionalism & secularism.

Ø Salient features of world’s physical geography.

Ø Distribution of key natural resources across the world (including South Asia and the Indian subcontinent);

Ø Factors responsible for the location of primary, secondary, and tertiary sector industries in various parts of the world (including India)

Ø Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc., geographical features and their location- changes in critical geographical features (including water bodies and ice-caps) and in flora and fauna and the effects of such changes.

General Studies- II: Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice and International relations.

Ø Indian Constitution- historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure.

Ø Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure, devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein.

Ø Separation of powers between various organs, dispute redressal mechanisms and institutions.

Ø Comparison of the Indian constitutional scheme with that of other countries

Ø Parliament and State Legislatures - structure, functioning, conduct of business, Powers & privileges and issues arising out of these.

Ø Structure, organization and functioning of the Executive and the Judiciary Ministries and Departments of the Government; Pressure groups and formal/informal associations and their role in the Polity.

Ø Salient features of the Representation of People’s Act.

Ø Appointment to various Constitutional posts, powers, functions and responsibilities of various Constitutional Bodies.

Ø Statutory, regulatory and various quasi-judicial bodies

Ø Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.

Ø Development processes and the development industry- the role of NGOs, SHGs, various groups and associations, donors, charities, institutional and other stakeholders

Ø Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes; mechanisms, laws, institutions and Bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections.

Ø Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources.

Ø Issues relating to poverty and hunger.

Ø Important aspects of governance, transparency and accountability, e-governance- applications, models, successes, limitations, and potential; citizens charters, transparency & accountability and institutional and other measures.

Ø Role of civil services in a democracy.

Ø India and its neighborhood- relations.

Ø Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests

Ø Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora.

Ø Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate.

General Studies-III: Technology, Economic Development, Bio diversity, Environment, Security and Disaster Management.

Ø Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment.

Ø Inclusive growth and issues arising from it.

Ø Government Budgeting.

Ø Major crops cropping patterns in various parts of the country, different types of irrigation and irrigation systems storage, transport and marketing of agricultural produce and issues and related constraints; e-technology in the aid of farmers

Ø Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies and minimum support prices; Public Distribution System- objectives, functioning, limitations, revamping; issues of buffer stocks and food security; Technology missions; economics of animal-rearing.

Ø Food processing and related industries in India- scope and significance, location, upstream and downstream requirements, supply chain management. Land reforms in India.

Ø Effects of liberalization on the economy, changes in industrial policy and their effects on industrial growth.

Ø Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc. Investment models.

Ø Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life , Achievements of Indians in science & technology; indigenization of technology and developing new technology.

Ø Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, robotics, nano-technology, bio-technology and issues relating to intellectual property rights.

Ø Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment

Ø Disaster and disaster management.

Ø Linkages between development and spread of extremism.

Ø Role of external state and non-state actors in creating challenges to internal security.

Ø Challenges to internal security through communication networks, role of media and social networking sites in internal security challenges, basics of cyber security; money-laundering and its prevention

Ø Security challenges and their management in border areas; linkages of organized crime with terrorism

Ø Various Security forces and agencies and their mandate

General Studies- IV: Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude

This paper will include questions to test the candidates’ attitude and approach to issues relating to integrity, probity in public life and his problem solving approach to various issues and conflicts faced by him in dealing with society. Questions may utilise the case study approach to determine these aspects. The following broad areas will be covered.

Ø Ethics and Human Interface: Essence, determinants and consequences of Ethics in human actions; dimensions of ethics; ethics in private and public relationships. Human Values – lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders, reformers and administrators; role of family, society and educational institutions in inculcating values.

Ø Attitude: content, structure, function; its influence and relation with thought and behaviour; moral and political attitudes; social influence and persuasion. Objectivity, dedication to public service, empathy, tolerance and compassion towards the weaker sections.

Ø Emotional intelligence-concepts, and their utilities and application in administration and governance.

Ø Contributions of moral thinkers and philosophers from India and world.

Ø Public/Civil service values and Ethics in Public administration: Status and problems; ethical concerns and dilemmas in government and private institutions; laws, rules, regulations and conscience as sources of ethical guidance; accountability and ethical governance; strengthening of ethical and moral values in governance; ethical issues in international relations and funding; corporate governance.

Ø Probity in Governance: Concept of public service; Philosophical basis of governance and probity; Information sharing and transparency in government, Right to Information, Codes of Ethics, Codes of Conduct, Citizen’s Charters, Work culture, Quality of service delivery, Utilization of public funds, challenges of corruption.

Ø Case Studies on above issues.

If you crack the Mains exam, you will qualify for the Interview. The interview is a personality test and will be conducted for 275 marks.

After this ,by calculating the combined scores of both Mains and Interview a merit list will be announced. You will have to be in the Top 100 (if u r a GM candidate) to make it to IAS.

ALL THE BEST

General Studies Paper 3 is seen as a challenge by many students. But no need to be worried because this paper can be done very easily done through wise interpretation of the syllabus.

UPSC in its syllabus says that

“The questions are likely to test the candidate’s basic understanding of all relevant issues, and ability to analyze, and take a view on conflicting socio‐ economic goals, objectives and demands. The candidates must give relevant, meaningful and succinct answers.”

this is the basic requirement of UPSC which is pointing that we need to have basic understanding and not phd on the subject. Basic understanding comes from reading and re-reading. Ability to analyze what you have understood from reading comes from WRITING PRACTICE.

Let’s start understanding GS2 now.

GS comprises of - Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice and International relations.

For this subject you must read these NCERTs

1. NCERT Class XI – India Constitution At Work
2. NCERT Class XII – Political Science II
3. NCERT Class X – Democratic Politics

Now these are very elementary books for basic understanding. You can finish them in 2–3 days time.

once you finish them you can move to other sources.

TOPIC-1

Indian Constitution– historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure.

For his topic you can refer to your trusty book M. Laxmikanth. You can also refer to ch 1 to 5 of DD BASU.

Source - M. Laxmikanth and D D BASU.

TOPIC-2

Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure, devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein.

This topic can also be read from M. Laxmikanth. Along with it you need to supplement your reading with other sources such as

Report of the 2nd Administrative Reforms Commission, named –Organizational Structure Of Government of India (13th Report)

For devolution of finances to local bodies You can read this report

for basic concepts you can read M. Laxmikanth.

But Mains demands not only basic understanding of these topics, but your critical and analytic abilities to answer questions on these topics. So, try to relate these concepts to current event topics and write small articles. ARC reports will help you in this regard.

Though devolution of funds, functionaries and functions is taking place in the local governments, development is still a mirage in many parts of India”. Critically analyze. (you can frame many questions like this)

TOPIC-3

Separation of powers between various organs, dispute redressal mechanisms and institutions.

This topic is quiet dynamic you need to link this topic with current affairs. Along with at you must also read features of constitution and related theories such as theory of separation of powers. You can read this from M. Laxmikanth and D.D. Basu.

ARC reports come to the rescue again. 7th report of 2nd ARC named Capacity Building for Conflict Resolution.

It talks elaborately on various issues such as Left Wing Extremism, Regional Disparities, Land and Water related issues, SC and ST issues, Religious conflicts and North East conflicts – which involve numerous institutions in the conflict management and resolution.

TOPIC-4

Comparison of the Indian constitutional scheme with that of other countries

This topic can be studied from S. Chand - Select Constitution of the World. You can also read these topic from web.

You can also read these topics from current affairs in which constitutions of other countries are mentioned such as Nepal, USA etc.

TOPIC-5

Parliament and State Legislatures – structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these.

This topic again can be read from M.Laxmikanth or The Parliament by Subhash Kashyap. Along with it you can also read current affairs regularly. You must also make notes whenever necessary. You can also practice answer writing for achieving proficiency.

TOPIC-6

Structure, organization and functioning of the Executive and the Judiciary; Ministries and Departments of the Government; Pressure Groups and formal/informal associations and their role in the Polity.

BASICS:

You can use the above material to read about - Union executive, Parliament, supreme Court of India, state legislature, executives in the state, etc.

TOPIC-7

Salient features of the Representation of People’s Act.

This topic has generated more heat in the past and present – eg, office of profit bill, anti-defection bill, electoral reforms bill etc.

you must read this topic very carefully using current affairs.

TOPIC-8 and 9

Appointment to various Constitutional posts, powers, functions and responsibilities of various Constitutional Bodies.

. Statutory, regulatory and various quasi-judicial bodies

Read Laxmikant for this part. Part VII,VIII and IX of this book completely covers these topics.

This part of the syllabus has given rise to some contentious issues such as political interference in the appointment to various constitutional posts and statutory bodies. Eg EC, CBI, CVC, CAG, SC, Governors, Lokayukta, Lokpal (if it comes into existence) etc. So, read this topic keeping in mind these above issues.

As I said before, you need to read all the above topics with an analytical perspective.

TOPIC-10

Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.

you can refer to Economic Survey for this topic and also read government schemes and other related current Affairs.

TOPIC-11

Development processes and the development industry- the role of NGOs, SHGs, various groups and associations, donors, charities, institutional and other stakeholders

for this topic you can refer to current affairs and web extensively.

TOPIC-12

Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes; mechanisms, laws, institutions and Bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections.

Note the word “STATE” – schemes by the states are also important.

• Focus on the schemes being implemented by the Ministry of Women and Child welfare, Ministry of Social Justice, Ministry of Rural Development and Ministry of Tribal affairs.

List of All state and central scheme – Govt. of India Website (here you can filter queries by the ministry- it is not easy though, govt site you know..)

TOPICS 12 and 13

Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources.

. Issues relating to poverty and hunger.

We read lot about this these days: Food security bill, PDS reform, Poverty reduction schemes, Poverty-line controversy, Malnutrition figures, report on malnutrition(remember HungMa report?) etc.

TOPIC-13

Important aspects of governance, transparency and accountability, e-governance- applications, models, successes, limitations, and potential; citizens charters, transparency & accountability and institutional and other measures

This introductory article on 2nd ARC site and 2nd ARC report on “Promoting e-Governance: The SMART Way Forward” will be very useful to cover this topic.

TOPIC-14

Role of civil services in a democracy

Again, 2nd ARC report (10th report) – Refurbishing of Personnel Administration has whole chapter (ch-4) on this topic.

International Relations

TOPIC-15

India and its neighborhood- relations.

Two sources for this topic:
India and its neighbours –

1. MEA Website

2. For critical analysis – This Book by Rajiv Sikri – Challenge and Strategy – Rethinking India’s Foreign Policy is must for reading this part of the syllabus.

TOPIC – 16

Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests

For India’s relations with the other countries,(read only important counries – USA, UK, EU, SA, Brazil, Japan, Russia, Australia etc)

TOPIC-18

Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora

This is a dynamic part – effects of globalization, WTO policies, domestic policies of developed countries and their effect on other countries (lot of examples from USA, UK can be given – visa row, war on terrorism, immigration policies, economic policies etc)

Indian diaspora – their contribution to India, India’s contribution to them, Their contribution to the world etc. Their problems in the residing countries, their rights in India – constitutional/statutory provisions if any, their participation in track two diplomacy, their role in Indian economy etc etc.

TOPIC- 19

Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate.

UNO and its various bodies, agencies must be studied with respect to their structure, role, relevance and reforms. UN reforms is the hot topic.

International Organizations (no UN bodies) such as APEC, ADB, ASEAN, OECD, NATO should be studied.

Five Indispensable Books For paper-III

1. D. D. Basu
2. Introduction to the Constitution of India
3. Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth
4. Select Constitutions- S Chand
5. Challenges and Strategy by Rajiv Sikri
6. Public Institutions in India - Pratap Bhanu Mehta

Until now we saw what books to read. Now the question is how to remember most of the things we read and how to translate them into better answers.

• A common mistake most of the aspirants commit is reading so many books for a single topic.This mistake costs both your time and ability to remember things clearly and concisely.
• Stick to a single source and read it again and again. Remember The Same Source. Avoid the temptation of doing ‘Research’ on a topic.
• Always Remember – UPSC tests Basic Understanding. Not mastery over a topic.
• Make short notes on each topic. It is while making notes that readers tend to do RESEARCH and scout various sources. Stick to one book even if you are not 100% satisfied with it.
• Remember that old saying? – Jack of all trades, master of NONE. If you try to do Research, most probably your name won’t appear in the Final List. I guarantee it.
• For Paper-II (i.e GS-1) being thorough with Current Events plays a crucial role in enabling you to acquire analytical skills.

Very Important Part In The Preparation

• Writing. Writing. Writing.
• But what? – One must practice answer writing to Previous year questions, or take a Mock Test. Whatever, before you enter examination hall, you must have spent lot of time on answer writing.

Most Important Part In The Preparation

• Revision. Revision. Re-Revision.
• You do this and you appear for the Personality Test.
• If you don’t Revise what you read all these months – you slightly miss the Personality Test, or You narrowly miss appearing in the Final List.

Well, to sum up. To get the interview call all you need to do is: Read, Re-read the same source, Write and Revise.

Preparation for this paper can be finished in 20 days provided you are focused and determined.

Of course. Eat well, Sleep well and Keep a good health. If you get a running nose on the day of the exam, 2 hours out of 3 hours goes in draining it and drying it

if you like my article do give an upvote so that I continue writing and enlightening you.

Rank : 58
Attempt No : 1st

Board: Professor H.C. Gupta
Date: 9 June 2015
Time: 4:30 pm

Academic Background: B.Tech, Electrical IIT Delhi (2013)
Job Experience: RBI & Samsung (both intern), Estee Advisors (current)
Hobbies: Learning language, chess, teaching.

-------------- (Chairperson) ---------

CP: So are you working ?

Me: Yes sir.

CP : Where and what are you doing?

Me: Sir, I am working as a technical analyst at Estee Advisors Private Limited, Gurgaon

CP: What's your role.

Me: Sir, I write softwares for High Frequency Trading platform.

CP: In which stock exchanges does your company trade?

Me: NSE, BSE, MCX, CME, SGCX, DGCX

CP: Recently the govt has launched a scheme related to gold. Do you know about it?

Me: Yes sir. It is called Gold Monetisation Scheme .... details followed.

CP: I think it's a completely useless scheme. People are emotionally attached to their jewellery and therefore they would never put their jewellery in bank.

Me: Sir we can offer higher interest rate and moreover all our gold is not in the form of jewellery.

CP: (not convinced by my answer). It's the bureaucrat like you that give such nonsense suggestions. Tell me some measures to improve the scheme.

Me: (.. gave some measures).

CP: (again not convinced). The steps suggested by you have been tried earlier in many different forms. If they did not work in past then how will it work in future?

Me: Sir, it's better to have hope than be pessimistic.

CP: Do you think having hope will run the country ?

CP suggested to other members to ask questions.

------------------------------------------ (Member - 1) ------------------

M1: So Bhavesh, tell me what's a blue water navy?

Me: I told him the definition etc.

M1: What is India doing in this regard ?

Me: Told him about our PMs visit, navy rescue efforts, joint exercise, upgradation etc.

M1: He asked me about some warfare ships imported from Russia.

Me: Sorry sir, I don't recall the name

M1: Your hobby is language learning. What languages do you know?

Me: Sir, I like learning scripts and I can read and write in all major Indian languages.

M1: Can you write your name in Tamil .

Me: I wrote my name in Tamil.

M1: So your name is Bhavesh and not Bhaavesh.

Me: Yes sir !

Lady Member (from Bengal): Write your name in Bengali

Me: I wrote my name in Bengali

Lady Member: Great, this guy can be posted to any corner of the country.

M1: Why are you learning these languages.

Me: Told him about my project to digitise all Indian texts from ancient to medieval era in a searchable format.

---------------------------------- (M2 : Lady Member) --------------------
M2: So you have worked in RBI?

Me: Yes ma'am.

M2: Do you think RBI role is as important today as it was 20 years.

Me: Gave some standard text book answers.

M2: Why 21st century is called Asian Century.

Me: A standard reply follows ...

M2: Give some reasons why Bollywood will supercede Hollywood in 21st century.

Me: Large diaspora, diversity, music, huge population etc ...

M2: Which was the last book you studied?

Me: Surely You're Joking Feynman - Richard Feynman

M2: What's it about?

Me: Told her about the life of great physicist etc....

---------------------------------- (Member - 3) ------------------------------

M3: Why our agricultural policy is flawed?

Me: Gave a very long reply - compromising on long term gains vs short term benefits etc. ....

M3: Did India liberalise too early?

Me: Again a long answer followed. I gave ample data both in favour and in against ...
----------------------------------------------- (Member - 4) ----------

M4: Tell me something about John Nash. Which disease was he suffering from?

Me: Narrated his life history in detail .............

M4: Who gave the concept of Game Theory first?

Me: Sorry sir, I don't recall the name.

M4: How many Nobel prizes have been awarded in the field of game theory.

Me: I told him 6 but 11 was the answer.

M4: Why IITians don't join DRDO?

Me: Gave a long reply .............

M4: I will have to talk to DRDO !!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chairperson: Thank you Bhavesh, your interview is over.

My Assessment:
I really had a fun time in the interview. Contrary to what others tell, the board members are extremely cordial and friendly. Prof H.C. Gupta is a genius. He did his PhD at the age of 20 / 22 years !!
Although he seems intimidating at first but he actually tries to put you through stress test.

Overall I was quite satisfied with my effort. Now waiting for marks; although UPSC is known for giving very less marks even if you think that your interview went fine.

EDIT: I got 209 / 275 marks !

In UPSC Civil service Mains exam, by and large you’ll face these nine types of descriptive questions:

Question is instructing you to

What should you do?

Discuss

Give both the positive and negative points(prelution and conclusion are must)

Describe

focuss should be only on that particular subject matter(for ex: e-governance only)(prelution is must but conclusion is your optional)

Explain

the answer should be based on answering in detail Why, How, for what, of that subject of the Your Domain Has Been Successfully Registered!., we have to give all the important points.(prelution and conclusion are must)

Distinguish

answer should be based on How the suject of question differs from otherthings.(only prelution is must)

Differentiate

there should be detailed comparision and distinguishing(as said above) the subject of question with others.(only prelution is must)

Examine

the answer should consist of the how good, what disadvantages, what impact of the subject of question.

Enumerate

first list out the all the relevant points, then explain one by one.(prelution and conclusion are must)

Reason

Find out what is the correct reason for the subject and explain one by one without side heading but highlighting the point with dots or numbers.(only prelution)

Analyse

try to give your view with future impact and goods and bads.(both prelution and conclusion are must)

Discuss

Give both the positive and negative points(prelution and conclusion are must)

Describe

focuss should be only on that particular subject matter(for ex: e-governance only)(prelution is must but conclusion is your optional)

Explain

the answer should be based on answering in detail Why, How, for what, of that subject of the, we have to give all the important points.

Distinguish

answer should be based on How the subject of question differs from otherthings.

Differentiate

there should be detailed comparision and distinguishing(as said above) the subject of question with others.

Examine

the answer should consist of the how good, what disadvantages, what impact of the subject of question.

Enumerate

first list out the all the relevant points, then explain one by one.

Reason

Find out what is the correct reason for the subject and explain one by one without side heading but highlighting the point with dots or numbers. Analyse

try to give your view with future impact and goods and bad.

Break the Question in 3 parts

First step is break the question into its configuration parts.
For example, consider this question asked in General Studies (Mains) exam of 2004
“Discuss the e-governance in Indian context”
Let’s start the process of breaking this question.

1. Focus on topic on e-governance
2. How to do in the context of India
3. What to do discussing the positive and negative points of view

7 steps answer writing

1. Find out the conclusive theme, when you read the question at first.
2. Write shortly what is meant by e-governance(should be ideal/neutral)
3. Directly go to the discussion neutrally.
4. Try to begin with the positive points
5. Give a negative point only after a positive point. This shows you to the evaluator that you are on the correct way of the answering the question and understood the question perfectly.
6. Carefully keep the word limit
7. At the end, give a finishing touch with the positive points. Why because, the evaluator provide marks only at the end of the answer, if you do so, it will make a good impression in the minds of the evaluator. Then we will get more and plus marks.
8. Draw a conclusion in accordance with your answer. Do not give your suggestion but give the existing fact with currant context of India. Worth noting when handling a question

EDIT: Rank 76th..makes the whole experience all the more special !

Board: Prof. H.C. Gupta
Stream: MBBS
Optional: Medical Science
Service preference: IAS>IFS>IRS
Place of birth- Varanasi
Hobbies- Reading, writing articles and quizzing

To the best of my memory, it went like this-

Chairman sir-
So u finished your MBBS last year March..what have you been doing since? (4 months before prelims..what could i have been doing Sir!! Duh-uh)

So you belong to the Prime Minister's constituency..Any changes that have been brought since he became the MP?
Don't you think we should ban throwing of religious waste in the Ganges?

M1-
As a DM of Varanasi what steps will you take to handle-
A) the lack of sanitation
B) the touts/thugs faced by tourists
C) the street vendors encroaching narrow roads to temples and ghats

What does women empowerment mean to you?
What steps would you take as a lady officer in this regard?

What is the difference between AIDS and HIV?

What is the government doing to control AIDS? Is it working?

How does a patient of AIDS die?

M2-
Name 2 authors of indian origin who have won the Booker prize.
Can you name one more?

Why IAS after MBBS?

What qualities do you have that you think will make you a good civil servant?

M3-
Largest economy in the world?

How many times is china's GDP of India's GDP?

Suppose there is a medical college in your district and the nurses and Group D staff has gone on strike, what steps will you take as a DM?
Will you intervene in the first stage?
Suppose the negotiations fail? Then?
What is your last resort?
Anything milder than that? (I answered ESMA)
Whom shall you ask for help?

M4-
What is the place of medical ethics in todays world of commercial medicine, medical insurance, etc etc etc(a lot of big words)?

How can we bring more ethicality into our doctors?

Where did you do your rural stint? How was the experience?

<Smiling broadly> tell me which was the tallest mountain in the world before they discovered Mt.Everest?

Chairman- Thank you. You may go now.

Personal thoughts
Short and sweet. Around 30 mins. Not many fact based questions. Mostly opinion based situational questions.Board was cordial and attentive. A lot of nodding and smiles hence easy to articulate to. Last question ws a googly which i totally missed(in my defence the atmosphere was so sombre..i did not expect a question like that) but i quickly realised my fault and laughed along with the board..

All in all the entire paranoia created around the interviews was busted. Whether I make it or not, it was a pleasure to sit in front of such an esteemed group and being heard.

If you are serious about anything than it's always achievable.

Every year around 850-900 students clearing upsc it means you can also study and clear it.

First of all the attitude matters.

You must be ready for long journey mentally.Bcoz if you succeed in first attempt thn also you need to study for almost 18 month.

Positive mindset is the key.

Strategy for the uspc is

CLEAR YOUR MIND,WHAT YOU WANT.

MAKE A PROPER AND PRACTICAL PLAN ACCORDING TO YOUR STRENGTH AND WEAKNESS.

AND EXECUTE IT RELIGIOUSLY.

REVIEW THE STRATEGY EVERY FORTHNIGHT.

TO CHECK YOUR SELF,WEATHER YOU ARE ON THE RIGHT TRACK OR NOT.

NOW I will tell you Successfull approach followed by most toppers and I'm also following it as a upsc aspirant.

✓Download syllabus and mug it up.

✓Read 6 to 12 NCERT thoroughly.

✓Buy all the standard books.

Alehasan Pathan's answer to What are the standard reference books for civil services exam for prelims?

✓Choose your Optional according to your interest and strength.

✓Daily read news paper and C.A

✓Complete full syllabus before 2 3 months of exams.

✓Always Prepare for mains bcoz 99% upsc is about mains prelims is only 1% .

✓Revise every thing 2 3 times

✓Write alot

✓Do writing practice from the day one.

✓Make notes.

✓Solve previous years question papers

Alehasan Pathan's answer to How does previous year questions help to crack UPSC CSE Prelims and Mains? in IAS IN FIRST ATTEMPT

✓Be confident and study with positive mindset.

✓Enjoy the journey.

✓Don't take long break like 1 week 2 week

I personally take weekend off every Month only.

That's the mantra

Biggest Task in this World is “ Being Discipline”

Otherwise everyone is going to be upsc topper.

Always remember one thing:books are same,news papers are same , coaching institute's are same , tips,strategies and plans are also similar still why not everyone getting selected in upsc. Just think.

It's all about attitude of being discipline.

Just take it as another exam.

Best of luck!!✌️✌️

The subjective question in mains are asked for purpose, One should read them properly and answer only the things which are asked.

There are several keyword which are need to be identified ...

Source: http://iasbaba.com

1) Comment

This is the most used directive in all the papers. The question usually gives an unbiased/biased statement and asks the student to “comment” on it. We are supposed to be neutral and write various facts and viewpoints regarding that particular statement.

Imagine yourself to be a commentator like Navjot Singh Siddhu or Ravi Shashtri

Can you connect?

For example, in 2013, this question was asked in GS 2 –

“Electronic cash transfer system for the welfare schemes is an ambitious project to minimize corruption, eliminate wastage and facilitate reforms. Comment”

In this question, one has to write various points regarding the DBT, various other facts regarding it, dimensions, governmental missions and some recent examples of such cash transfers. More points can be added regarding how it minimizes corruption and eliminates wastage. By the time one covers these points, he would have successfully “commented” for over 200 words, which is what the examiner wants.

2) Critically comment

Imagine in the same question, instead of just comment, the additional keyword “critically” is added. In such cases, we need to give both pros and cons, both positives and negatives. We need to answer by giving the story of both sides of the coin. In this question, one needs to highlight how difficult it is to implement cash transfers, how financial literacy has not reached the rural stage etc. In such a question, one needs to give a balanced answer covering all the points and dimensions.

Here you are ARNAB GOSWAMI of Times Now

3) Examine

Here we need to look into the topic asked in detail, try to understand it, inspect it, investigate it and establish the key facts and issues related to the topic in question. While doing so we should explain why these facts and issues are important and their implications. True examination comes when one analyzes all the various angles of the question.

Here you are Boymkesh Bakshi, The Detective

In 2014, this question was asked in GS-3

“How does illegal transborder migration pose a threat to India’s security? Examine the strategies to curb this, bringing out the factors which give impetus to such migration.”

In this question, one needs to divide the answer in various parts to addres each issue that is asked. The first part would contain the definition of illegal transborder migrtaion, along with examples and must examine how it affects the country’s security.

In the next part, we need to list down the various strategies and then examine the various factors that affect it. So, here examining any issue would go deep into the technical and conceptual details. Thus, “examine” is deeper than “comment”, but less deeper than “analyze”.

4) Critically examine

Same as above, but must give both positives and negatives. After examining both sides of the issue, one can give an apt balanced conclusion satisfying the examiner. That is, we need to weigh the arguments for and against something, assess the strength of the evidence on both sides. Using a certain criteria to guide your examination of which opinions, theories, models or items are preferable.

5) Evaluate

To identify and to write about the main issues, giving your reactions based upon what you have read or heard in various newspapers, lectures and reports. Avoid purely personal opinion.

There was a question in 2013’s GS-1 which deals with this directive

“The New Economic Policy – 1921 of Lenin had influenced the policies adopted by India soon after independence. Evaluate.”

6) Analyze

To examine in very close detail and to identify the various important points and chief features.

7) Discuss

This is another common directive which is an all-encompassing one – you have to debate on paper by going through the details of the issues concerned by examining each one of them. You have to give reasons for both for and against arguments. And once all the discussion is done, a suitable apt conclusion may be given at the end of the answer.

8) Narrate

To concentrate on saying what happened, telling it as a story in a good flow. It is better to use paragraph style answer writing in such questions instead of points style.

9) Enumerate

This directive would want the student to list out a sequence of points, like the 8 MDGs or the various constitutional articles dealing with Fundamental Rights. So, enumeration here means listing down a list of points.

10) Justify

This is a fairly simple directive to understand. Usually an opinionated statement is given, and we are asked to give various explanations, alongwith facts and theories to truly “justify” the statement – We have to prove alongwith credible evidence that the given statement is true indeed.

11) Differentiate

To distinguish between two or three various items and bring out the differences between them.

12) Explain

Here the student should clearly express why something happens, or why something is the way it is. He needs to look at a subject in depth taking note of the detail and if appropriate, consider the implications, and should explain them in good simple language.

2014’s GS 3 paper had this question

“While we flaunt India’s demographic dividend, we ignore the dropping rates of employability.” What are we missing while doing so? Where will the jobs that India desperately needs come from? Explain.

These are the most common directives that are usually oft-repeated in the Mains. There might be some rare ones which do pop out from time to time, like “Give your arguments”, “Do you agree”, “Bring out the relationship between..” and many more. They will be very direct and obvious, so there is no need to break our heads on them.

While some are very straight-forward, like, “Why?”, “How?”, etc which can be solved by everyone without much thinking on the directive.

Let us try to answer a simple question now, using the various directives here, so that we understand the exact minute difference between each.

“After the World War 2, the strategy of the West towards Soviet block crystallised as a ‘Policy of Containment”. Comment.

Note here that the keyword here is “Comment”, so we can write various points related to the policy of containment directly without any confusion. Do give a short introduction in the starting so that the structure looks good. So, the model answer for this directive would be –

Ans) Post World War 2, the western countries’ policies toward third world was guided by policy of containment of soviet bloc rather than appeasing them. The containment events are:

a) Truman Doctrine: This doctrine assured to provide political, military and economic assistance to all democratic nations under threat from external or internal authoritarian forces – implicitly against soviet influence.

b) Cuban Missile Crisis: This trail of suspicion made US to delink its relation with cuba for the last 5 decades, which was done to contain the soviet influence.

c) Arming Militants in Afghanistan: To bail-out the soviet intrusion in Afghanistan, the west deliberately armed the local militants to stop soviet expansion.

d) NATO – the military block formed not due to cooperation, rather due to suspicion and containing the soviet influence.

e) Vietnam and Korean Wars: The fear of socialism influence by Russia, made the western countries to deliberately interfere in these wars though their own interests were not at stake.

In all these cases, the main proponent is containing communism rather than appeasing the third world for friendship. The 21st century demands appeasement rather than containment.

So, in this we can see that not much analysis or discussion has happened. The answer has just a list of various incidents and a line commenting on each one of them.

Now, what if the directive had changed?

Let the new question be –

“After the World War 2, the strategy of the West towards Soviet block crystallised as a ‘Policy of Containment”. Analyze.

Ans) The “policy of containment” was an US policy to control the expansion of communism. It was triggered by “Berlin crisis” of 1948 when Soviet Russia blocked the entry of Western allied powers into Berlin.

After Berlin crisis, US and the other western powers followed an active policy to control soviet expansion. For this they adopted various diplomatic, economic and military measures. Starting from Berlin crisis, the growing tension was visible in Korean War and reached a deadlock during Cuban missile crisis. US became so much occupied with policy of containment that it started direct intervention, both diplomatic and military in many countries like Chile and Vietnam. The underlying philosophy was that if communism is unchecked it will lead to a domino effect and will capture the whole world in its clutch.

US and allied powers were as much responsible as was Soviet Russia for this cold war. Both lacked trust and mutual pragmatism. The leaders were egoistic which became quite apparent during Cuban crisis when US President Kennedy made an under-the-table deal with Soviets to make US look good. The doctrine of peaceful coexistence as proposed by NAM movement came as a respite but the two blocks kept pursuing their own policy of establishing regional dominance.

Cold war came to an end in early 1990s. That too was a time and need precipitated event and there was hardly any mutual agreement b/w the two powers for that. The clash of ego and hegemonic rivalry b/w two super-powers can only be blamed for continuance of “policy of containment” for such an extended time.

Do you see the difference in the two answers? One is comment and the other is analyze?

There are nine subjective types of papers in the UPSC Mains examination. The types of questions asked in the civil services main examination are discussed in this article. aspirants should know these question types in UPSC Mains and how to attempt such questions.

The UPSC Mains Exam 2020 took place from 8th January 2021 onwards. The commission is yet to release the schedule of the Mains exam of UPSC 2021. The commission releases (IAS) Mains Timetable on the official website. Given below is the UPSC 2020 Civil Services Mains Timetable.

Question Types in UPSC IAS Mains

Here, we bring the types of questions asked in the UPSC Mains Exam to the aspirants preparing for the mains, which they should be aware and ready to answer accordingly in the actual exam.
Below listed are the types of questions and a few tips on how to attempt each type of question in the UPSC Mains Exam.

Question Types’

How to attempt the questions?

Analyse

E.g. Evaluate the economic and strategic dimensions of India’s Look East Policy in the context of the post-Cold War International Scenario.

This type of question requires a detailed analysis, pros and cons and supported by facts.

Here, candidates’ need not present their views.

Critically Examine

E.g. “In the Indian governance system, the role of non-state actors has been only marginal.” Critically examine this statement.

This type of question requires suggestions and reforms and reasons for the recommended reforms along the analyzing, merits and demerits supported with facts. (similar to discussion type)

Discuss

E.g. Major cities of India are becoming more vulnerable to flood conditions. Discuss. (UPSC 2016-17 GS Paper I)

In this type of question, the answer should have both the pros and cons or should be a kind of discussion writing for and against the keyword, in general, a debate or argument kind backed up with facts and finally with a conclusion.

Elucidate

E.g. Early Buddhist Stupa-art, while depicting folk motifs and narratives successfully expounds Buddhist ideals. Elucidate.

Here, they are required to make the question clear or explain or elaborate in detail. Candidates’ views on the matter are not required in this type of questions.

Comment/Express your views

E.g. South China Sea has assumed great geopolitical significance in the presence context. Comment.

This type of questions requires candidates’ unique perspective. Right or wrong does not matter; what matters in answering this type of question is candidates clear views supported with relevant facts.

Tips to Follow in UPSC Mains

Here are some quick tips to follow while answering questions in the UPSC Mains Exam.

• Look for the keyword in the question, a question will have at least 2-3 keywords. Centring that keyword, construct your answer according to the need of the question.
• Write five points about the keyword
• Explain each point in three dimensions i.e.Socio-economic-political-geographical point of viewFor, against, and conclusionWhat/why/how
• Finally, to back up their answers with facts and add diagrams wherever required.

These are the major question types asked in the UPSC Mains Exam and a few crucial answer writing tactics one need to know and follow respectively to see their name in the final merit list.

Essay type questions one have to answer jn the mains .Here there are some questions given below asked in previous years:

• If development is not engendered, it is endangered
• Need brings greed,if greed increases it spoils breed
• Water disputes between states in federal india
• Cooperative federalism:myth or reality
• Cyberspace and internet: blessing or curse to the human civilisation in a long run
• Digital economy: a leveller or a source of economic inequality
• With greater power comes greater responsibility
• Is the growing level of competition good for youth?
• Words are sharper than the two-edged sword
• Was it the policy paralysis or the paralysis of implementation which slowed the growth of our country ?
• Is sting operation an invasion on privacy?
• Character of an institution is reflected in its leader
• Technology cannot replace manpower

There are many other questions which can be asked and sorry I can't cover all that.

Thank you

The UPSE CSE is one of the most difficult exams that one could take up in India. But clearing that with flying colors could really get a highly praised and most prestigious job position. No job could really be compared with the one where we could serve the nation and help the public of the country.

Now let’s talk about the Pattern for the examination.

There are typically 3 stages in the UPSC examination.

STAGE 1

UPSC CSE PRELIMS EXAMINATIONS

Paper 1 : General studies 1 (100 questions - 200 marks - 2 hours)

Paper 2 : General studies 2 (80 questions - 200 marks - 2 hours)

The above examinations might have their respective negative marking and they are all of Objective type.

STAGE 2

UPSC CSE MAINS EXAMINATIONS

This examination consists of 9 papers. The candidates who have scored enough cut-off in the prelims examination can take part in these series of exams.

Paper A : Compulsory Indian Language (3 hours - 300 marks)

Paper B : English (3 hours - 300 marks)

Paper 1 : Essay writing (3 hours - 250 marks)

Paper 2 : General studies 1 (3 hours - 250 marks)

Paper 3 : General studies 2 (3 hours - 250 marks)

Paper 4 : General studies 3 (3 hours - 250 marks)

Paper 5 : General studies 4 (3 hours - 250 marks)

Paper 6 : Optional paper 1 (3 hours - 250 marks)

Paper 7 : Optional paper 2 (3 hours - 250 marks)

The general studies might include the subjects like Indian Heritage and Culture, Governance, Technology, Ethics, History and Geography of the World, Constitution, Economic Development, Integrity, Society, Polity, Bio-diversity, Aptitude, Social Justice, Environment, International relations, Security and Disaster Management and more.

There are many optional subjects that one can choose like geography, history, law, accountancy, anthropology, sociology, mathematics and more. There are far more optional subjects that one can choose. Please refer to any of the official notices for the list of optional subjects.

STAGE 3

UPSC INTERVIEW

This is the final stage of the examination and called officially as the Personality test. This stage alone comprises of 275 marks. This is one of the important stage of the examination as this is where the candidates are tested whether they are mentally prepared for such a high standard of position and their mindset about the services are also examined here. After this the candidates are chosen based on the merit list and provided a ranking in the Administration of the Indian Nation.

Thus the total marks for this examination stands at 2025.

I am not an UPSC Aspirant but I have jotted down all the information I know about this examination for your purpose. If you find any wrong information or misconceptions about all the above details please let me know. And here I show my sincere respect towards all the aspirants out there struggling to get a position in the administrative departments to serve the nation. And ALL THE BEST to everyone reading this.

For more information about the pattern visit these pages.

I am not a promoter of any of these below pages but pasted them here for your future reference.

UPSC Exam Pattern For IAS 2020-2021 | Prelims, Mains And Interview

UPSC IAS Exam Pattern, Latest Civil Services Exam Paper 2020-21 Patterns - Careerindia

IAS Exam Pattern 2020 - Check Civil Services Prelims & Mains Pattern Here

There is no better service than serving the nation!

Jai Hind!

Please do consider upvoting for more answers…

Thank you so much!!!

The UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) is conducted in three stages: Prelims, Mains, and Interview. Here's a breakdown of the exam pattern for Prelims and Mains:

FREE Preparation: Open Google, search for " UPSC MCQTUBE " and visit mcqtube website for all the practice mock test for free.

UPSC Prelims Exam Pattern:

* Objective Type (MCQ): The Prelims consists of two objective-type papers.

* Two Papers:

* General Studies Paper-I (GS Paper-I):

* 100 questions

* 200 marks

* 2 hours duration

* Covers subjects like History, Geography, Polity, Economics, Current Affairs, and General Science.

* General Studies Paper-II (CSAT - Civil Services Aptitude Test):

* 80 questions

* 200 marks

* 2 hours duration

* Covers subjects like Comprehension, Logical Reasoning, Analytical Ability, Decision Making, and Basic Numeracy.

* Qualifying paper: Candidates need to score a minimum of 33% to qualify.

* Negative Marking: There is negative marking for incorrect answers. One-third of the marks assigned to a question are deducted for each wrong answer.

UPSC Mains Exam Pattern:

* Written Examination: The Mains is a written, descriptive examination.

* Nine Papers:

* Qualifying Papers (300 marks each, qualifying in nature):

* Paper A: Compulsory Indian Language (candidates choose one from the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution)

* Paper B: English

* Papers Counted for Merit (250 marks each):

* Paper I: Essay

* Paper II: General Studies-I (Indian Heritage and Culture, History and Geography of the World and Society)

* Paper III: General Studies-II (Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice and International relations)

* Paper IV: General Studies-III (Technology, Economic Development, Bio-diversity, Environment, Security and Disaster Management)

* Paper V: General Studies-IV (Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude)

* Paper VI: Optional Subject-Paper I (candidates choose one optional subject)

* Paper VII: Optional Subject-Paper II (same optional subject as Paper VI)

* Descriptive Answers: Candidates are required to write descriptive answers to the questions.

* Language: Candidates can write the Mains examination in any of the languages listed in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution or in English, except for the language papers themselves.

Important Notes:

* The Prelims is a screening test, and the marks obtained in it are not counted for the final ranking.

* The Marks obtained in the Mains and the Interview are added together to create the final ranking.

* The optional subject plays a significant role in the Mains examination.

* It is crucial to refer to the official UPSC notification for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the exam pattern and syllabus.

GS Paper 2 of UPSC Mains can be easily prepared if you have a proper understanding of its syllabus. Polity & Constitution, Governance, International Relations, and Social Justice constitute the major part of the GS Paper 2 syllabus.

For the Polity & Constitution part of the syllabus, you should start your preparation with the NCERTs to gain a basic understanding and then proceed with advanced books such as M.Laxmikanth for further preparation. Try to mention all the supreme court judgments, recommendations of various committees, relevant articles of the constitution, law commission reports, etc in your answers to make them more effective.

For the Governance Part, make notes for topics such as SHGs, Social audit, e-governance. Do analyze various government schemes and also refer to ARC recommendation during the Governance section preparation.

International Relations is a dynamic part of the GS paper 2. Hence, you should read newspapers (The Hindu/The Indian Express) especially the columns related to International relations. You can also visit the official website of the Ministry of External Affairs for the IR preparation.

Social Justice preparation should include newspaper reading and making notes according to its syllabus. You should also take assistance of the PrepLadder app for your Mains preparation. It will help you in preparing effectively.

Hope my answer helps you.

All the best.

CSE Interview, 2014
Board: H C Gupta + four members ( all gents)
Date: 19 May 2015, 4.30 PM
Duration: 30 minutes
Optional: Sociology
Chairman: Read out my educational and employment details from DAF
1. Which NGO did you work?
2. What sectors does it work? ( drinking water and sanitation)
3. Which projects on sanitation did you work. Please explain
4. Who is the founder of Sulabh International?
5. What is Sulabh model of toilets
6. Is there any other alternative sanitation models?
7. Tell me about the recent Karnataka High Court verdict? ( Jayalalitha case) What is her full name?
8. Why did Tamil Nadu HC transfer the case to Karnataka?

M1:
1. Why is Lokpal needed?
2. What is Lokayukta? Who is current Lokayukta in Karnataka?
3. How do you curb corruption in India?
4. Among all the rights based approach which scheme you think is best? (MNREGA)
5. Is MNREGA successful? Tell it loopholes?
6. How do you create better community assets?

M2:
1. What is intellectual property?
2. What is Geographical Indications?
3. Why is Indian GIs less successful than EU GI like wine etc
4. Tell me about USA GI. How are they performing?
5. Why negative balance of trade is bad for India? We can very well import goods?
6. Why our exports not competitive? ( Long question , he gave example of automobile industry being competitive)
7. Case: Your are District Collector, there is a calamity( floods) all crops are destroyed and there are no official records about cropping patter in our office? You have to start from scratch. What are the steps you will take? (long question)
8. How will you finance the crop losses? Tell about National Calamity fund? National contingency fund? Differences? Who gives funds?

M3:
1. Why Urban local bodies not able to self finance urban projects?
2. What are the sources of funds for ULBs?
3. What is percentage of property tax collection in ULBs?
4. How can you overcome the shortfalls in tax collection?
5. What is Solid waste tax and water cess?

M4:
1. Why are old age homes growing in India(My hobby is “visiting old age homes”)
2. What will you do if children abandon their parents and send to old age homes? What is the age of your parents?
3. What are the laws related to it?
4. Which war movies have you seen? Did you watch any 16th- 17th war movies( This is NOT my hobby)
Chairman: Your interview is over.

First you must go through the UPSC syllabus thoroughly. This will help you in understanding the pattern of UPSC Exam.

Strategy which you can follow is- Limited sources, Stick to the basic books (everyone knows the standard booklist), Concept clarity, & multiple revisions. This will help you prepare with less efforts.

Then, choose optional subject in which either u had done your graduation or as per your interest. Your job is half done if you choose the right optional according to your aptitude and liking.

Also, try to solve previous years’ papers. It will not only help you with answer writing practice, but will also give you a fair idea of the exam pattern and help analyse the trend of question papers. Then, you must also join test series of any reputed institutes like KSG India etc. to assess your preparation level.

Hope this helps :)

UPSC Mains exam is 2nd stage of UPSC civil services exam . The pattern of Mains exam is as follows:-

1. It's written exam which consists total 9 papers, out of which 7 are considered for merit.
2. Each paper being of 3 hours duration , 2 paper per day over period of 5— 7 days, in recent time increased, here is timetable for UPSC mains exam of 2021

1. Paper A- one Indian language papers (Qualifying - matriculation level, atleast 25% marks needed to qualify):- 300 marks
2. Paper B - English language paper( qualifying , English of metruculation level, atleast 25% marks) :300 marks
3. Essay paper:- 250 marks
4. General studies I:- 250 marks
5. General studies II:- 250 marks
6. General studies III:- 250 marks
7. General studies IV:- 250 marks
8. Optional paper I:- 250 marks
9. Optional paper II:- 250 marks

Both optional papers are from single subject ( which has been choosen by you).

Overall the UPSC civil services mains exam test candidate's knowledge, writing skills, problem solving ability.

Visit IAS Network website for more information.

Regards:-
B.A. Rao, IAS ( RETD ) & IAS NETWORK Team

Hey,

Here is the exam pattern of UPSC Prelims and Mains paper -

PRELIMINARY EXAMINATION ( this has two parts)

The preliminary examination is of objective types and here marks will not be counted for the final merit list.

Phase I ( 200 marks )

Phase II / CSAT ( 200 marks )

Main examination syllabus

Questions in main examinations are of descriptive types and here in every paper, you have to face twenty questions.

• Essay paper ( 250 marks ) Here, you are required to write an essay on a specific topic within word limits.
• General studies paper 1 ( 250 marks ) Indian heritage/ culture, World history and geography
• General studies paper 2 ( 250 marks ) Governance, constitution, polity, social justice and international relationships
• General studies paper 3 ( 250 marks ) Technology, Economic Development, Bio-diversity, Environment, security and disaster management
• General studies paper 4 ( 250 marks ) Ethics, integrity and aptitude

Hope, it helped!

Preparing for the Civil Services Mains General Studies (GS) and interview requires a well-rounded selection of books and resources. Here are some useful ones:

General Studies (GS) Mains:

1. "India's Struggle for Independence" by Bipan Chandra

2. "Indian Polity" by M. Laxmikanth

3. "Indian Economy" by Ramesh Singh

4. "Geography of India" by Majid Husain

5. "Certificate Physical and Human Geography" by Goh Cheng Leong

6. "History of Modern India" by Rajiv Ahir

7. "Science and Technology in India" by TMH

8. "Environmental Studies: From Crisis to Cure" by R. Rajagopalan

9. "A Brief History of Modern India" by Spectrum

10. "Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude" by Lexicon

For Interview:

1. "The UPSC Civil Services Interview: How to Excel" by Madhukar Bhagat

2. "Mock Interviews for Civil Services" by Abhishek Kumar

3. "Current Affairs for Interviews" by TMH

4. "The Personal Interview for Civil Services: How to Excel" by Samiksha Shastri

5. Regularly read newspapers and magazines for current affairs.

Remember, while books are essential, also focus on practicing mock interviews, essay writing, and answer writing to improve your skills and gain confidence. Additionally, stay updated with current affairs through newspapers and online sources.

Good luck with your preparation!

Baswan commettie has submitted his report to DOPT(The department of personnel and training ).Now Government is reviewing the report. No one has any idea about what government is gonig to do .But there are three type of possibilities -

First, government may be apply all the suggestions of the Baswan report not now but later because of loksabha election in 2019.The reason behind this whenever a change come to in a system it always leave its impact over people this impact may be good or bad so government would not like to take risk before assembly election.

Second ,government may be accept few suggestions which are not going to affect too much and apply these suggestions in this year exam .

Third possibilitie is that government may be clearly discard this report because it has been done by the earlier governments when they had clearly reject the report .

The DOPT comes under the PMO and all the decisions are made by the prime minister and after looking the working style of PM Modi we can expect changes in the system because he is a feearless leader who doesn't care about the side result of his decisions he only focus on main result .GST ,Demonetisation are the examples of his strong decision making power.

Yet we hope what changes government will be bring will be in our favour .

First of all I am an example of a person who has failed in his pursuit of becoming an IAS officer. So the reason one to prepare for UPSC Civil services i.e To become a servant of the highest order for your country’s administration is not the deciding factor on whether or not you should prepare for UPSC Civil services.

Simple thing, If you are willing, able and ready then only you will be able to get the opportunity.

Bottomline is “You don’t prepare for UPSC, UPSC cancels those who are under prepared.”

While it comes with the collateral damage of sheer frustration and failure and a feeling of wasting the most beautiful time in preparing for the toughest exam, It has it’s own benefits also.

It will make you realise, that nothing happens by chance. As far as life as a whole is considered.

It will get the true self that was unexplored and may be dormant inside you.

It will give you the necessary maturity when ultimately you get along with your responsible life.

It will teach you not to take life very seriously, rather take the time seriously so that the opportunities, if and when comes in your way are taken to it’s full.

Last but not least, like Training in Army camp gives your physical side the taste of reality. UPSC Civil services preparation gives you the taste of reality.

“Be in love with the most uncomfortable zone of your mind” is what I have gained during my journey to failure. As far UPSC is concerned.

Thank you.

Good Luck.

In preliminary exam you will found that there is no fix pattern….. but if you will analyze the back year papers you can make some pattern of study for preliminary exam….like…🤔..focus on current affairs and try to make a relationship between current and static portion🤝🤝🤝

ex. if you found any news related to constitutional bench of supreme court,,,,go through the complete judiciary section of your syllabus…

in this way you can make a pattern for preliminary exam..

Mains is analysis based paper,✍️✍️✍️,,and many of the aspirant can predict about it,,,for example many aspirant was sure that gst,water crisis,over ground workers,gdp growth etc will come in exam..and they found the question over these topics….

First of all you must be clear in your mind that what you think about any particular topic,👁️,,second thing is writing skill and last speed of writing…✍️

all these points will help you to make a pattern for UPSC…

Thank you 🙂

UPSC GS Paper 1 is titled “Indian Heritage and Culture, History, and Geography of the World and Society”. It is one of the nine papers in the UPSC Civil Services (Main) Examination. Consisting of 250 marks, the UPSC General Studies Paper 1 is among the seven papers that are ranking in nature. It means that the score obtained in this paper gets added to the total marks which determine the final rank of the candidate.

History, Art & Culture, and Geography are the three major subjects that are covered in this paper. Subjective questions are asked from the micro topics under these three subjects in the examination. In this article, we will look at how to prepare for UPSC GS Paper 1.

Let’s start with the syllabus of UPSC GS Paper 1:

Syllabus of UPSC GS Paper 1 for Civil Services Main Examination

General Studies I: Indian Heritage and Culture, History, and Geography of the World and Society

• Indian Culture - Salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature, and Architecture from ancient to modern times.
• Modern Indian History from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the present- significant events, personalities, issues.
• The Freedom Struggle — its various stages and important contributors/contributions from different parts of the country.
• Post-independence Consolidation and Reorganization within the country.
• History of the World will include events from the 18th century such as the Industrial Revolution, world wars, Redrawal of National Boundaries, Colonization, Decolonization, political philosophies like Communism, Capitalism, Socialism, etc.— their forms and effect on the society.
• Salient features of Indian Society, Diversity of India.
• Role of Women and Women’s Organization, Population and Associated Issues, Poverty and Developmental issues, Urbanization, their problems, and their remedies.
• Effects of Globalization on Indian society.
• Social Empowerment, Communalism, Regionalism & Secularism.
• Salient features of the World’s Physical Geography.
• Distribution of Key Natural Resources across the world (including South Asia and the Indian sub-continent); factors responsible for the location of primary, secondary, and tertiary sector industries in various parts of the world (including India).
• Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone, etc., geographical features and their location-changes in critical geographical features (including water-bodies and ice-caps) and in flora and fauna and the effects of such changes.

How to prepare for UPSC GS Paper 1:- Strategy & Tips

It is clear from the syllabus of the UPSC GS Paper 1 that broadly history, art & culture, and geography are to be covered to ace this paper. Following are some of the strategies that you can adopt to prepare this paper:

• History: Since the syllabus mentions only modern history, you can cover it from the books Spectrum (A brief history of Modern India) & Bipin Chandra (History of Modern India)
• Art & Culture:Do not ignore the ancient and medieval history areas as questions from Art & Culture are asked from this portion. Glance through Class XI NCERT of Art & Culture to prepare this portion. Additionally, you can also refer to Indian art & culture by Nitin Singhania
• Indian Society: The contemporary topics such as Indian Society, Role of women’s organization, globalization, etc can be effectively covered by reading newspapers, monthly magazines, and PIB & PRS websites.
• Geography:The Geography part of the syllabus can be effectively covered from the NCERTs of Class XI and XII followed by a reading of books by Majid Hussain and GC Leong.
• Previous Year Questions & Mock Tests: Cover at least ten years of PYQs of UPSC GS Paper 1 to assess the type of questions that are being asked and also browse through the answer copies of toppers. You can easily get these answer copies online. Evaluate them to understand the important elements of a good answer and incorporate it into your answer-writing. Practice it regularly and get your copies evaluated by your mentors.

Micro-topics Covered Under UPSC GS Paper 1

• History and Art n Culture :-

Indian Art Forms

Indian Paintings

Classical Dance Forms

Folk Dance Forms

Classical Music

Puppetry

Pottery

Drama/Theatre

Martial Arts

Literature

Ancient Indian Literature

Classical Sanskrit Literature

Literature in Pali and Prakrit

Early Dravidian Literature

Medieval Literature

Women Poets of Bhakti

Trends in Medieval Literature

Modern Indian Literature

Architecture

Harappan Architecture

Temple Architecture

Cave Architecture

Indo-Islamic Architecture

Medieval Architecture

Modern Architecture

Contribution of Buddhism & Jainism to the Development of Indian Architecture

Rock Cut Architecture

Colonial Architecture & the Modern Period

Middle of the Eighteenth Century Until The Present

Socio-economic Condition of People

European Penetration of India

British Conquest of India

British Policies & Their Impact – Economic, Administrative & Socio-cultural

Socio-cultural Reform Movements

Uprisings Against British Pre-1857

Revolt of 1857

Growth of Nationalism in India (1858-1905)

Political, Economic & Administrative Unification of the Country

Role of Western Education

Role of Press

Rediscovery of India’s Past

Early Political Movements

Formation of INC

Era of Moderates

Growth of Militant Nationalism & Revolutionary Activities (1905-1918)

Swadeshi & Boycott Movement

Surat Split

International Influence

Morley – Minto Reforms

Growth of Communalism

Beginning of Mass Nationalism (1919-1939)

Mahatma Gandhi – His Ideas & Leadership

Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms

Rowlatt Act, Satyagrah and Jallianwala Bagh Massacre

Non-cooperation & Khilafat Movement

Swarajists & No-Changers

Emergence of New Forces – Socialistic Ideas, Youth & Trade Unionism

Revolutionary Activity

Simon Commission & Nehru Report

Civil Disobedience Movement

Round Table Conferences

Communal Award & Poona Pact

Participation in Elections to Central Legislature (1934) & Provincial Assemblies (1937)

Government of India Act, 1935

Towards Freedom & Partition (1939-1947)

National Movement During World War II

August Offer

Individual Satyagraha

Growth of Communalism

Peasant Movements

State People’s Struggle

Cripps Mission

Quit India Movement

Wavell Plan

INA & Subhash Chandra Bose

Cabinet Mission

Nationalist Upsurge Post-World War II

Independence with Partition

Nation Building

Partition and Its Aftermath

Integration of Princely States

Reorganisation of States

Issue of Official Language

Tribal Consolidation

Regional Aspirations

Foreign Policy

Non-Aligned Movement

Panchsheel

Wars with Pakistan & China

Nuclear Policy

Economy

Planned Development

Green Revolution, Operation Flood & Cooperatives

Agrarian & Land Reforms

Industrial Reforms

LPG Reforms

Polity

Era of One-Party Dominance

Emergence of Opposition Parties

Emergency: Crisis of Democratic Order

Rise of Regional Parties

Coalition Era

Social

Popular Movements

Communalism

Indian Women Since Independence

Naxalism

Industrial Revolution

Renaissance

Discovery of Sea Routes

Reformation

Counter Reformation

European Nations Settle North America

Rise of Slave Trade

American War of Independence

French Revolution

Nationalism in Europe

Rise of Capitalism, Colonialism & Imperialism

World War I

Causes of the War

Scope & Course of the War

Russian Revolution

End of the War & Peace Treaties

Consequences of the War

League of Nations

World Between the Two Wars

Europe After the War – Fascism & Nazism

The Great Depression

Emergence of Soviet Union

Nationalist Movements in Asia & Africa

US as a Strong Power

World War II

Fascist Aggression & Response of Western Democracies

Outbreak of the War

Theatres of the War

US Entry into the War

Global Nature of the War

The Holocaust

Resistance Movements

After-effects of the War

Decolonialisation & Redrawal of National Boundaries

Europe after World War II

Cold War

Rise of Asia & Africa

Developments in West Asia & North Africa

Spread of Communism

Korean War

Vietnam War

Cuban Crisis

Collapse of Soviet Union

Concept, Types & Social Impact of Political Philosophies

Communism

Capitalism

Socialism.

• Indian Society :-

Diversity (Types – caste, linguistic, social and religious, race, tribe and ethnicity, culture)

Challenges posed by Diversity

Unity

Pluralism

Unity in Diversity

Inequality and Exclusion

Family System

Examples of above.

Women's Organisations – Empowerment through Action

19th Century Social Reform Movements and Early Women's Organisations – (1) Agrarian Struggles and Revolt, (2) Participation in Freedom Struggle

Women's Organisations Post – 1947

Resurgence of Women's Movement in the 70s: (1) Emergence of New Organisations, (2) Approaches and Issues

Contemporary Women's Issues & Organisation Response

Women's Organisations and SHGs

Challenges faced by Women's Organisations

Basic Demography of India

Population Trends in India and their Implications

Causes and Effects of Over Population

Challenges of Population Explosion

Changing Age Structure of Indian Population

Demogarphic Dividend: Boon or Bane for India

Population Aging in India

India's Population Policy & Initiatives

Concept of Development and Poverty

Types of Poverty

Measurement of Poverty – Poverty Line

Causes of Poverty

Poverty as a Social Problem

Socio-economic Spread of Poverty

Consequences of Poverty –

Inequality

Continuation of Vicious Cycle

Who are worst affected by poverty?

Problem of Rising Urban Poverty

Poverty Alleviation Initiatives

Policy shift from “Trickle Down” Economics to Inclusive or Pro-poor Development to Reduce Poverty

Relation between Poverty Reduction and Development: Poverty-Inequality-Development Nexus

Urbanisation Trends in India and Their Implications - Demographic and Social Dimensions

Factors Driving Urbanisation