Qualifying Papers (300 Marks Each)

Paper A

Indian Language (selected from the 8th Schedule of the Constitution)

Paper B

English

(Both are of qualifying nature; marks are not counted for ranking.) 

Merit Papers (Counted for Ranking – 1750 Marks)

Paper I: Essay (250 Marks)

Candidates are required to write essays on multiple topics.

Emphasis on clarity of thought, coherence, and effective expression.

Paper II: General Studies I (250 Marks)

Indian Heritage and Culture, History and Geography of the World and Society

• Indian culture – art forms, literature, architecture.
• Modern Indian history and freedom struggle.
• Post-independence consolidation & reorganization.
• World history – events, industrial revolution, wars, colonization, political philosophies.
• Indian society – diversity, women’s issues, globalization effects, social empowerment.
• Geography – physical geography, natural resources, factors affecting population, urbanization.

Paper III: General Studies II (250 Marks)

Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice & International Relations

• Indian Constitution – historical underpinnings, features, amendments.
• Parliament, State Legislatures, Executive & Judiciary.
• Functions of government, separation of powers, dispute redressal.
• Governance – transparency, accountability, e-governance, citizen charters.
• Social Justice – welfare schemes, vulnerable sections, NGOs, SHGs.
• International relations – India & neighbors, bilateral/global groupings, diaspora.

Paper IV: General Studies III (250 Marks)

Technology, Economic Development, Biodiversity, Environment, Security & Disaster Management

• Indian economy – planning, growth, employment, inclusive development.
• Agriculture, land reforms, MSP, food processing.
• Science & Tech – IT, space, robotics, nanotech, biotechnology.
• Environment – conservation, pollution, climate change, EIA.
• Disaster management – preparedness, mitigation.
• Internal security – challenges, cyber security, money laundering, terrorism, border management.

Paper V: General Studies IV (250 Marks)

Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude

• Ethics & Human Interface – determinants, consequences, dimensions of ethics.
• Human values – role of family, society, education.
• Attitude, moral & political attitudes, social influence.
• Emotional Intelligence – concepts & utilities in governance.
• Contributions of moral thinkers & philosophers.
• Public service values, ethics in public administration.
• Case Studies on ethical dilemmas in governance.

Paper VI & VII: Optional Subject (2 Papers, 250 Marks Each)

Candidate can choose one optional subject from the UPSC prescribed list