Explore the Comprehensive UPSC Mains Syllabus 2024
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The UPSC Mains Syllabus for 2024 outlines essential examination details, including a total of nine papers worth 1750 marks, with two qualifying language papers and seven evaluative papers. It emphasizes a range of topics across general studies, including Indian heritage, governance, technology, ethics, and optional subjects, each comprising specific content areas designed to assess candidates' knowledge and critical thinking. Success in the Mains exam, paired with interview scores, is crucial for candidates seeking top ranks in the civil services.
Explore the Comprehensive UPSC Mains Syllabus 2024
- 1. UPSC Mains Syllabus 2024 PDF Download forumias.com/blog/upsc-mains-syllabus-2024/ Contents
- 2. Detailed syllabus of mains examination as per UPSC official syllabus The UPSC Mains Syllabus 2024 plays a pivotal role in the second stage of the Civil Services Exam. Candidates must clear the prelims to qualify for the mains. The Mains exam dives deep into assessing a candidate’s academic prowess and their ability to clearly and effectively articulate their knowledge within the given time constraints. Ultimately, a candidate's rank in the UPSC Civil Service Exam hinges on the marks they score in both the Mains exam and the Interview. Pattern and marking scheme of main examination The UPSC Mains exam has nine papers for a total of 1750 marks. Out of nine papers, two papers are qualifying, 300 marks each. Any Paper in the Indian Language Language Paper in English
- 3. A candidate must qualify in these language papers to ensure that the marks obtained by such candidates will not be considered or counted. Candidates can write Paper I to Paper VII in English or any of the languages mentioned in the 8th schedule of the Indian Constitution. Paper I to Paper VII will be taken for evaluation only if the candidate obtained 25% of the marks in Paper A and Paper B. There are 48 Optional Subjects in the UPSC exam. The candidate has to select any one subject among them. Two papers (Paper VI and Paper VII) will be conducted from that for 250 marks each. There are 9 papers in the UPSC Mains Exam: PAPERS TOPICS MARKS Paper – A Indian Language (Any of the language mentioned in 8th schedule) 300 Paper – B English 300 Paper – I Essay 250 Paper – II General Studies – I (Indian Heritage & Culture, History & Geography of the World & Society) 250 Paper – III General Studies – II (Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice & International Relations) 250 Paper – IV General Studies – III (Technology, Economic Development, Biodiversity, Security & Disaster Management) 250 Paper – V General Studies – IV (Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude) 250 Paper – VI Optional Subject – Paper I 250 Paper – VII Optional Subject – Paper II 250
- 4. Paper I: Essay In Essay Paper, candidates may be required to write essays on multiple topics. They will be expected to keep close to the subject of the essay to arrange their ideas in an orderly fashion and to write concisely. Credit will be given for effective and exact expression. Paper II: General studies Paper-I It covers topics of Indian Heritage and Culture, History and Geography of the World and Society. Art & Culture: Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of Art Forms, literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times. Modern History: Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the present- significant events, personalities, and issues. The Freedom Struggle — its various stages and important contributors/contributions from different parts of the country. Post-Independence: Post-independence consolidation and reorganization within the country. World History: The 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 effects on the society. Indian 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. Physical Geography: Salient features of the world’s physical geography. Human and Economic 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). Geophysical Phenomena: Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclones etc., geographical features and their location- changes in critical geographical features (including water-bodies and ice-caps) and flora and fauna and the effects of such changes. Paper III –General Studies Paper- II It covers topics of governance, constitution, polity, social justice and international relations. Indian Constitution—historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure.
- 5. 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. Separation of powers between various organs dispute redressal mechanisms and institutions. Comparison of the Indian constitutional scheme with that of other countries. Parliament and State legislatures—structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these. 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. Salient features of the Representation of People’s Act. Appointment to various Constitutional posts, powers, functions and responsibilities of various Constitutional Bodies. Statutory, regulatory and various quasi-judicial bodies. Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Development processes and the development industry —the role of NGOs, SHGs, various groups and associations, donors, charities, institutional and other stakeholders. 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. Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources. Issues relating to poverty and hunger. Important aspects of governance, transparency and accountability, e-governance applications, models, successes, limitations, and potential; citizens charters, transparency & accountability and institutional and other measures. Role of civil services in a democracy. India and its neighbourhood- relations. Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests. Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora. Important International institutions, agencies, and fora- their structure, mandate. Paper IV -General Studies Paper- III It covers topics from technology, economic development, bio diversity, environment,
- 6. security and disaster management
- 7. Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development and employment. Inclusive growth and issues arising from it. Government Budgeting. 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. 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. Food processing and related industries in India- scope and significance, location, upstream and downstream requirements, supply chain management. Land reforms in India. Effects of liberalization on the economy, changes in industrial policy and their effects on industrial growth. Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc. Investment models. 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. Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, robotics, nano-technology, biotechnology and issues relating to intellectual property rights. Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment. Disaster and disaster management. Linkages between development and spread of extremism. Role of external state and non-state actors in creating challenges to internal security. 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. Security challenges and their management in border areas – linkages of organized crime with terrorism. Various Security forces and agencies and their mandate. Paper V -General Studies Paper- IV This paper includes topics of ethics, aptitude and integrity It includes questions to test the candidates’ attitude and approach to issues relating to integrity, probity in public life and problem-solving approach to various issues and conflicts faced in dealing with society. Questions may utilise the case study approach to determine these aspects. The following broad areas will be covered :
- 8. 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. Attitude: content, structure, function; its influence and relation with thought and behaviour; moral and political attitudes; social influence and persuasion. Aptitude and foundational values for Civil Service, integrity, impartiality and non- partisanship, objectivity, dedication to public service, empathy, tolerance and compassion towards the weaker-sections. Emotional intelligence-concepts, and their utilities and application in administration and governance. Contributions of moral thinkers and philosophers from India and world. 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. 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. Case Studies on the above issues. Detailed analysis of the mains syllabus General Studies paper- I detailed syllabus as per UPSC official syllabus Subjects Topics Sub-topics under each topic Indian Heritage and Culture Indian Philosophy Philosophy of Buddhism and Jainism Philosophies associated with religions (Islam, Hinduism, Sikhism, etc) Other Philosophies (Nyaya, Samkhya, Vaisheshika, Yoga, Purva mimamasa, Vedanta, Carvaka, etc)
- 10. Indian Literature Religious Literature (Vedic, Buddhism, Jainism, Bhakti & Sufi movement, etc) Non-religious literature (Social, Political, Economic, Sangam literature, etc) Ancient and Medieval sources (Archaeological and Foreigners literary works) Note: Archaeological literature includes Inscriptions/Epigraphs, Numismatics/coins. Other literary works (Aaranyakas, Upanishads, Puranas etc) Literary works during the freedom struggle Architecture Cave architecture School of art (Amaravati, Gandhara and Mathura school) Temple architecture Indo-Islamic architecture Modern architecture Temple Architecture Basics of Temple architecture (Mandapa, Shikara, Gharbhgriha, gopuram, Vimana, etc) Various styles of temple architecture (Nagara, Vesara, and Dravida) Indo-Islamic Art and Architecture Imperial art and Architecture (Sultanate and Mughal, Vijayanagar and Bahmani) Provincial art and architecture (Regional architecture from Jaipur, Jaunpur, Bijapur, Malwa, Kashmir, etc) Modern Art and Architecture Indo-gothic and Neo-Roman Architecture Mural, Miniature and wall paintings Modern painters and techniques etc Performing Art Indian Dance forms Indian Music (Carnatic and Hindustani Music) Indian Theatre arts
- 11. Indian Puppetry Indian Martial arts
- 12. Religious Movements in India Jainism Buddhism Brahmanism Bhakti and Sufi Movements Sikh religious movement etc Other sub-topics in art and Architecture Languages and their development Indian Calendar Indian sculptures and pottery Contribution of Indians in various fields (Science, art, music, astronomy, Medicine, etc) Indian Fairs and Festivals Cultural institutions in India etc Subject Topics Sub topics Modern History and Post- Independent India History from the middle of the eighteenth century until the present– significant events, personalities, issues India in the Late 18th century The advent of Europeans and British Conquest in India India under East India Company The revolt of 1858 and the administrative changes after that Political Organizations (Prior to INC and after INC and INC) Revolutionary organisations Freedom struggle under Moderate, Extremist and Gandhian phase India and Neighbourhood relations Socio-Religious movements in India (19th and 20th
- 13. Century) Personalities and their contribution to India’s freedom struggle (Gandhi, Nehru, SC Bose, etc) Important contributors/contributions from different parts of the country Peasants and Tribal Movements in India Regional movements in various part of India, Princely States
- 14. Other topics Reforms in various fields under East India Company administration and British administration (Police, education, social, economic, etc.) Post-independence consolidation and reorganization within the country Immediate development in India after Independence Consolidation of India after Independence (Territorial, Reorganisation of Indian States and Various policy initiatives like Tribal policy, Policy followed in North-East etc) India under Jawaharlal Nehru, Lal Bahadur Shastri, Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi etc. Subject Topics Sub topics World History Various events from the 18th Century to till date Industri al Revolu tion Americ an Revolu tion French Revolu tion Unification of Italy and Germany Russian Revolution Japanese Revolution Colonization and De-colonization in various parts around the world and its effects Chinese revolution World wars and the
- 15. redrawal of national boundaries Cold war phase, NAM and the philosophical rivalry Disintegration of USSR and its aftermath etc Other Regional challenges like Apartheid, Israel-Palestine conflicts etc.
- 16. Political philosophies and their forms and effect on society. Capitalis m Commun ism Nazism Fascism Socialism, etc. Subject Topics Sub topics Indian Society Salient features of Indian Society Caste system in India and its dynamics Sanskritization, Westernisation and Modernisation Kinship, Marriage and Family Class development (Middle Class) Diversity of India Unity in Diversity Types of Diversity exist in India (Religious, Caste, Race, Ethnicity, etc) Globalisation and Diversity Factors contributing to Unity amidst Diversity Challenges associated with Diversity Role of women and women’s organization Origin and evolution of Women Organizations in India Various women organizations existed in India since freedom struggle Challenges faced by women/ women organizations Government initiatives to encourage women / women organizations and the reason behind the same Women in various fields (agriculture, Industry, education, labour market, science and technology, etc) Role of men in development of
- 18. Population and associated issues Population growth and distribution in India Demographic dividend and demographic curse and its challenges Population and other issues such as poverty, Employment, environment, resources, women empowerment etc Population control policies and their impact on population since independence. Other challenges associated with Population like Missing women, family planning etc. Poverty and developmental issues Poverty and various types of poverty and their measurements Causes and consequences of poverty in India Vicious cycle of poverty and Hunger Poverty in rural and urban areas, poverty and women etc and its impacts Role of non-state actors in alleviating poverty and hunger Role of government in Poverty alleviation (evolution and impacts of policies, committees, schemes, Acts, etc.) Urbanization, their problems and their remedies Urbanization and its evolution, causes and concentration in India Problems and opportunities due to Urbanization Migration and its impacts like pollution, urban crimes, congestion, waste generation, transport etc. Slum and Squatter settlements Urbanization and urban planning in India Urban out growth and its impact,
- 19. terms associated like satellite cities etc Urbanization and feminisation of agriculture Urbanization and Industrialization and Globalization etc Government initiatives to equitable urban growth (evolution and impacts of policies, committees, schemes, Acts etc) Effects of globalization on Indian society Globalization and its impacts such as economic, social, environmental etc impact of globalization on family level, cultural level, among various sections like women, children, elderly etc. Impact of globalization on general values, ideas and lifestyle of Indian society.
- 20. Social empowerment Concept, need, evolution and various models of social empowerment Difference between social empowerment and Political, economic empowerment Role of non-state actors in social empowerment Various government initiatives to different sections of society like tribal, women, social and culturally backward sections of people etc. communalism, regionalism & secularism Communalism Meaning, type, evolution of Communalism Reason for prevalence of communalism Impact of communalism Role of State and non-state actors in reducing Communalism Regionalism Meaning, type, evolution, son of soil concept of Regionalism Various regional movements in India since Independence and their impacts like Dravida Nadu movement, Khalistan movement, Telangana movement, Movements in North east etc. Regionalism and Nationalism Regionalism and Federalism Regionalism, Extremism and Separatism differences and concepts Impact of regionalism in International arena Constitutional protections against regionalism and government initiatives to strengthen cooperative federalism Secularism Concepts and sources of Indian secularism Difference between Indian and western Secularism Secularism and Communalism Factors threatening secularism and the way ahead
- 22. Geography Physical Geography Physical Geography of world Solar system and the basics of Earth Geomorphology (Earth’s interior, rock classification, External and Internal forces, Various orders of land form development) Climatology (Structure, composition, atmosphere, weather and climate, pressure belts, winds, jet streams, precipitation, world climatic regions) Oceanography (Ocean waves, tides, currents, tsunamis, temperature and salinity etc) Bio geography (Soils, classification, distribution, erosion and conversion) Continents and their evolutions Physical Geography of India Location, area and boundary of India Structure and Relief: Physiographic Divisions Weather, Climate and Seasons Bio geography of India Natural Vegetation, Plant and Animal Life Human and Economic Geography Human and Economic Geography of World Primary, secondary, tertiary, quaternary and quinary activities Human Geography of world World Population, Distribution & Density, Races & Tribes, Settlement & Migration Human and Economic Geography of India Agriculture and Agro-Climatic Regions Land
- 23. Resources Water Resources Mineral and Energy Resources Industries Transport and Communication Population, Migration, Settlements General topics Natural resources and mineral resources and distribution of key natural resources Agriculture and agro-climatic regions Industry and location factors Map based questions
- 24. Geophysical Phenomena Earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc. Geographical features (including water-bodies and ice-caps) and their location-changes and flora and fauna and the effects of such changes. General Studies Paper-II Detailed Syllabus as per UPSC official syllabus Subjects Topics Sub topics Indian Polity and Constitution Indian Constitution—Historical Underpinnings, Evolution, Features, Amendments, Significant Provisions and Basic Structure. Comparison of the Indian Constitutional Scheme with that of Other Countries. 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. Separation of Powers between various organs Dispute Redressal Mechanisms and Institutions. Parliament and State Legislatures—Stru cture, Functioning, Conduct of Business, Powers & Privileges and Issues Arising out of these. 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. Salient Features of the Representation of People’s Act.
- 26. Appointment to various Constitutional Posts, Powers, Functions and Responsibilities of various Constitutional Bodies. Statutory, Regulatory and various Quasi-judicial Bodies. Historical background Making of the Constitution Salient Features of the Constitution Preamble of the Constitution Union and its territory Citizenship Fundamental Rights Directive Principles of State Policy Fundamental Duties Amendment of the Constitution Basic Structure of the Constitution Comparison of the Indian Constitutional Scheme with that of Other Countries. 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. Parliamentary System Federal System Centre-State Relations Inter-State Relations Emergency Provisions Separation of Powers between various organs Dispute Redressal Mechanisms and Institutions. Parliament and State legislatures—structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these. Parliamentary Committees Parliamentary Forums Parliamentary Group
- 27. Structure, organization and functioning of the Executive and the Judiciary—Ministries and Departments of the Government. President Vice-President Prime Minister Central Council of Ministers Cabinet Committees Supreme Court Judicial Review Judicial Activism Governor Chief Minister State Council of Ministers High Courts Subordinate Courts Pressure Groups and Formal/Informal Associations and their Role in the Polity. Salient Features of the Representation of People’s Act. Appointment to various Constitutional Posts, Powers, Functions and Responsibilities of various Constitutional Bodies. Election Commission Union Public Service Commission State Public Service Commission Finance Commission National Commission for SCs, STs and OBCs Special Officer for Linguistic Minorities Comptroller and Auditor General of India Attorney General of India Advocate General of
- 28. State
- 29. Statutory, Regulatory and various Quasi-judicial Bodies. NITI Aayog National and State Human Rights Commission Central and State Information Commission Central Vigilance Commission Central Bureau of Investigation Lokpal and Lokayuktas Governance Government Policies and Interventions for Development in various sectors and Issues arising out of their Design and Implementation. Development Processes and the Development Industry — the Role of NGOs, SHGs, various groups and associations, donors, charities, institutional and other stakeholders. Important Aspects of Governance, Transparency and Accountability, E- governance- applications, models, successes, limitations, and potential; Citizens Charters, Transparency & Accountability and institutional and other measures. Role of Civil Services in a Democracy.
- 30. Governance Difference between Government and Governance Stakeholders of Governance Good Governance in India and its initiatives Minimum government and maximum governance Sevottam Model Social Audit Models of e- Governance Role of Civil Services in a Democracy.
- 31. Social justice 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. Issues Relating to Developmen t and Management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources. Issues relating to Poverty and Hunger. 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. C h il d r e n W o m e n Scheduled Castes, Schedule Tribes and Other Backward Castes Senior Citizen Disabled Persons Minorities LGBT Communit y Poor Persons Issues Relating to Developm ent and Management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources. Issues relating to Poverty and Hunger. About
- 32. Poverty and types Vicious cycle of poverty Causes and its impact Solutions Various government initiatives to curb poverty and hunger International Relations India and its Neighborhood- Relations. Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and Agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests. Effect of Policies and Politics of Developed and Developing Countries on India’s interests, Indian Diaspora. Important International Institutions, agencies and fora – their Structure, Mandate. India and its Neighborhood- Relations.
- 33. Borders Borders and Boundaries- key agreements India and Bangladesh India and Nepal India and Bhutan India and Sri Lanka India and Pakistan India and Afghanistan India and Maldives Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and Agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests. G77 G20 G7 G4 ASEAN SAARC BIMSTEC Land and Maritime agreements Important International Institutions, agencies and fora – their Structure, Mandate. UNGA UNSC WTO WB WEF ADB AIIB OECD BRICS Bank IBSA Forum OPEC OIC Effect of Policies and Politics of Developed and Developing Countries on India’s interests, Indian Diaspora. Evolution of India’s Foreign Policy General Studies Paper-III Detailed Syllabus as per UPSC official syllabus
- 34. Subjects Topics Sub topics Indian Economy and Economic Development Indian Economy and issues relating to Planning, Mobilization of Resources, Growth, Development and Employment. Inclusive Growth and issues arising from it. Government Budgeting. 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. 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. Food Processing and Related Industries in India- Scope’ and Significance, Location, Upstream and Downstream Requirements, Supply Chain Management. Land Reforms in India. Effects of Liberalization on the Economy, Changes in Industrial Policy and their Effects on Industrial Growth. Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc. Investment Models. Indian Economy and issues relating to Planning, Mobilization of Resources, Growth, Development and Employment. Inclusive Growth and issues arising from it. Introductio n Dimension s Need of Inclusive Growth in India Poverty Unemploymen t Inequality Challenges to Inclusive Growth Steps taken by Government for Inclusive Growth Government Budgeting. Meaning and importance Various components of Budget Stages in Budget enactment Lacunae in the Budgetary process Budgetary reforms Evolution of Budgeting Highlights of Union Budget Major Crops –
- 35. Cropping Patterns in various parts of the country Different Types of Irrigation Drip and Sprinkler Irrigation Surface and Subsurface Irrigation Irrigation Systems Wells and Tube Wells
- 36. Canal Irrigation Tank Irrigation Schemes of Government related to Irrigation Storage, Transport and Marketing of Agricultural Produce and Issues and Related Constraints Warehousing Cold Storage Agricultural Produce Marketing Committee (APMC) Farms Act, 2020 E-technology in the aid of farmers. Uses of e-technology for farmers Various Initiatives related to e- technology to aid farmers Private sectors initiatives Agriculture sector and Digital India Challenges of using e-technology in agriculture Issues related to Direct and Indirect Farm Subsidies and Minimum Support Prices Types of Agriculture Subsidies in India Issues related to Agriculture Subsidies Agriculture Subsidies and WTO Agriculture Pricing Policies Technology Missions. Economics of
- 37. Animal-Rearing Challenges faced by Animal Husbandry Sector
- 38. Pink and White Revolution Operation Flood Fisheries Government Initiatives Food Processing and Related Industries in India- Scope’ and Significance, Location, Upstream and Downstream Requirements, Supply Chain Management. Evolution of Food Processing Industry Schemes Challenges Policy Initiatives WTO and Food Processing Industry Land Reforms in India. Effects of Liberalization on the Economy, Changes in Industrial Policy and their Effects on Industrial Growth. Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc Infrastructure and economic development Constraints Government initiatives Telecommunication Infrastructure and North-Eastern Region Investment Models Models used in Planning process Infrastructure- Investment Model Models of Foreign Investments
- 39. Science and Technology 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. Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, Robotics, Nano- technology, Bio-technology and issues relating to Intellectual Property Rights Science and Technology- Developments and their Applications and Effects in Everyday Life. Food technology Business technology Agriculture Space Research and Development etc. Achievements of Indians in Science & Technology Important names associated with Science and Technology C V Raman Vikram Sarabhai APJ Abdul Kalam Indigenization of Technology and Developing New Technology. Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, Robotics, Nano- technology, Bio- technology and issues relating to Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Types of IPR IPR Regime in India Various International Agreements related to IPR
- 40. Bio-diversity and Environment Conservation, Environmental Pollution and Degradation, Environmental Impact Assessment. Biodiversity Indian Biodiversity Animal Diversity of India Plant Diversity of India Marine Organism Protected Area Network Conservation Conservation efforts Acts and Policies Institution and Measures International Environment Conventions Environmental Organizations Environmental Pollution and Degradation Air Pollution Water Pollution Noise Pollution Soil Pollution Radio Active Pollution E-Waste Solid Waste Bio-remediation Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). Need for EIA EIA cycle and its procedures Components of EIA Procedure of Public Hearing Drawbacks and Recommendations of EIA Security Linkages between Development and Spread of Extremism. Role of External State and Non-state Actors in creating challenges to Internal Security.
- 41. Linkages between Development and Spread of Extremism. Terrorism, Extremism and Radicalisation
- 42. 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. Security Challenges and their Management in Border Areas – Linkages of Organized Crime with Terrorism. Various Security Forces and Agencies and their Mandate. Naxalism, its origin and evolution Objective, strategy and causes of Naxalism Initiatives of government to curb Naxalism North-East Insurgency Jammu and Kashmir Insurgency Role of External State and Non-state Actors in creating challenges to Internal Security. Challenges posed by them Terrorism and history of terrorism in India Counter terrorism strategy of India Steps taken by government and various global actions Challenges to Internal Security through Communication Networks About Communication Network Its role in today’s world Types of threat to Communication Networks Importance of securing Communication Network. Challenges in securing Communication Networks
- 43. Role of Media and Social Networking Sites in Internal Security Challenges Basics of Cyber Security; Money- Laundering and its prevention. Security Challenges and their Management in Border Areas – Linkages of Organized Crime with Terrorism. Border Management in India Indo-China Border Indo-Pakistan Indo-Nepal Indo-Bhutan Indo-Bangladesh Indo-Myanmar Indo-SriLanka Measures and initiatives of Border Management Coastal Security Various Security Forces and Agencies and their Mandate. Indian Armed Forces Central Armed Police Forces CISF CRPF ITBP SSB etc. Central Paramilitary Forces Assam Rifles Indian Coast Guard Security Agencies in India Disaster Management Disaster and Disaster Management. Disaster
- 44. Classification of Disasters Natural Hazards Earthquake Tsunami Cyclone Floods Drought Landslides Heat Wave Cold Wave Wildfire Anthropogenic Hazards Biological Disasters Industrial Chemical Disasters Nuclear Disasters Hazards, vulnerabilities and risks Disaster management cycle Preparedness Risk reduction Planning, relief and rehabilitation Recovery and management post- disaster Disaster management in India Legal and institutional framework Vulnerability profile of India Disaster Management Act, 2005 2nd ARC 3rd Report-Crisis Management
- 45. Global framework on Disaster Management-Senda i Framework Various national and international initiatives to curb disasters International Cooperation on Disaster Management General Studies Paper-IV Detailed Syllabus as per UPSC official syllabus Subject Detailed Syllabus 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. Attitude Content, Structure, Function Its Influence and Relation with Thought and Behaviour Moral and Political Attitudes Social Influence and Persuasion Aptitude and Foundational Values Aptitude and Foundational Values for Civil Service Integrity Impartiality and Non-partisanship Objectivity D
- 46. e d i c a t i o n t o P u b l i c S e r v i c e E m p a t h y Tolerance and Compassion towards the weaker-sections.
- 47. Emotional Intelligence Moral Thinkers and Philosophers Public/Civil Services Values and Ethics in Public Administration Emotional Intelligence-Concepts, and their Utilities and Application in Administration and Governance. Contributions of Moral Thinkers and Philosophers from India and World. 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. 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. Case Studies Case Studies on above issues. Optional Paper (Paper VI and VII) The UPSC mains exam syllabus also includes 48 optional subjects covering a wide horizon of subjects including Literature, Arts, Science, Agriculture, Etc. Candidates have to select one optional subject from the IAS syllabus and there will be two papers for 500 marks (250 marks each).
- 48. 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 bachelor’s degree and lower than the master’s degree. In the case of Engineering, Medical Science and law, the level corresponds to the bachelor’s degree. The candidates must give relevant, meaningful and succinct answer. Candidates need to choose any one of the below-mentioned subjects as their optional.
- 49. Serial Number List of optional subjects Detailed Syllabus 1 Agriculture Syllabus for Agriculture 2 Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science Syllabus for Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science 3 Anthropology Syllabus for Anthropology 4 Botany Syllabus for Botany 5 Chemistry UPSC Syllabus for Chemistry 6 Civil Engineering UPSC Syllabus for Civil Engineering 7 Commerce & Accountancy UPSC Syllabus for Commerce & Accountancy 8 Economics UPSC Syllabus for Economics 9 Electrical Engineering UPSC Syllabus for Electrical Engineering 10 Geography UPSC Syllabus for Geography 11 Geology UPSC Syllabus for Geology 12 History UPSC Syllabus for History 13 Law UPSC Syllabus for Law 14 Management UPSC Syllabus for Management 15 Mathematics UPSC Syllabus for Mathematics 16 Mechanical Engineering UPSC Syllabus for Mechanical Engineering 17 Medical Science UPSC Syllabus for Medical Science 18 Philosophy UPSC Syllabus for Philosophy 19 Physics UPSC Syllabus for Physics 20 Political Science & International Relations UPSC Syllabus for Political Science & International Relations 21 Psychology UPSC Syllabus for Psychology 22 Public Administration UPSC Syllabus for Public Administration 23 Sociology UPSC Syllabus for Sociology
- 51. 24 Statistics UPSC Syllabus for Statistics 25 Zoology UPSC Syllabus for Zoology Serial Number List of Literature optional subjects Detailed Syllabus 1 Assamese UPSC Syllabus for Assamese 2 Bengali UPSC Syllabus for Bengali 3 Bodo UPSC Syllabus for Bodo 4 Dogri UPSC Syllabus for Dogri 5 Gujarati UPSC Syllabus for Gujarati 6 Hindi UPSC Syllabus for Hindi 7 Kannada UPSC Syllabus for Kannada 8 Kashmiri UPSC Syllabus for Kashmiri 9 Konkani UPSC Syllabus for Konkani 10 Maithili UPSC Syllabus for Maithili 11 Malayalam UPSC Syllabus for Malayalam 12 Manipuri UPSC Syllabus for Manipuri 13 Marathi UPSC Syllabus for Marathi 14 Nepali UPSC Syllabus for Nepali 15 Oriya UPSC Syllabus for Oriya 16 Punjabi UPSC Syllabus for Punjabi 17 Sanskrit UPSC Syllabus for Sanskrit 18 Santhali UPSC Syllabus for Santhali 19 Sindhi UPSC Syllabus for Sindhi 20 Tamil UPSC Syllabus for Tamil 21 Telugu UPSC Syllabus for Telugu 22 Urdu UPSC Urdu Syllabus 23 English UPSC English Syllabus
- 52. FAQs related to Mains syllabus What are the qualifying language papers in the Mains Examination? The qualifying language papers include an Indian language paper and an English language paper. These papers are of a qualifying nature, and candidates need to score a minimum mark to pass them. What is the syllabus for the essay paper in the Mains Examination? The essay paper requires candidates to write essays on varieties of topics. The syllabus is not specific, but candidates are expected to write coherently and express their thoughts effectively. How one can prepare for optional without any coaching? Preparing for optional topics necessitates deep study and specialization. Candidates are recommended to use specialised books and resources for their optional topics. Self-study is key for all the exam papers. How one can effectively manage time during Mains preparation? Time management is essential in Mains preparation. Create a well-structured study plan, allocate sufficient time for each paper, and practice time-bound answer writing. Regularly assess your progress and adapt your study strategy as needed. How to improve writing and analytical skills for the Mains Examination? To improve writing and analytical skills, practice writing essays and answers regularly. Reading and critical analysis of diverse subjects can also enhance your analytical abilities.