Syllabus For UPSC
PRELIMINARY TEST
GENERAL STUDIES
● General Science: Questions on General Science will cover general appreciation and understanding of science, including matters of everyday observation and experience, as may be expected of a well educated person who has not made a special study of any scientific discipline.
● Current events of national and international importance.
● History of India and salient features of the history of Bihar.
● In History, emphasis will be on broad general understanding of the subject in its social, economic and political aspects.
● The candidates are expected to be familiar with the broad aspects of the history of Bihar.
● General Geography and geographical division of Bihar and its major river systems.
● In Geography, emphasis will be on geography of India and Bihar.
● Questions on the Geography of India and Bihar will relate to physical, social and economic Geography of the country including the main features of Indian agricultural and natural resources.
● Indian Polity and Economy and major changes in the economy of Bihar in the post independence period.
● Questions of Indian Polity and Economy will test knowledge on the country’s political system, Panchayati raj, community development and planning in India and Bihar.
● Indian National Movement and the part played by Bihar in it and also Questions on General Mental Ability.
○ Questions on the Indian National Movement will relate to the nature and character of the nineteenth-century resurgence, growth of nationalism, and attainment of Independence and candidates will be expected to answer questions on the role of Bihar in the freedom movement of India.
History
A. Ancient and Medieval History
● Pre- Historic period
● Indus Valley civilization
● Vedic age
● Buddhism and Jainism
● Gupta period
● Sangam Age
● Delhi Sultanate
● Vijaynagar Empire
● Bhakti Movement
● Sufi Movement
● Mughal Empire
● Tripattage
● Mahajanapada
● Mauryan and Post Maurayan
● Post gupta
Source:-
○ NCERT-6th to 12th
○ Ethics IAS Notes
B. Modern History
Priority Area
● Expansion and consolidation of British Power in India
● Revolt of 1857
● Socio- Religious reform movement
● Beginning of Modern Nationalism in India
● India National Congress foundation and the Moderate phase
● Indian National Congress extremist phase
● Emergence of Gandhi
● Non-Cooperation Movement and Khilafat Andolan
● Emergence of Swarajist
● Simon commission
● Civil Disobedience
● Quit India Movement
● Independence in Partition
● Development of India Press
● Peasant/ Tribal / Civil Moveme nt
● Movement of working Class
● Women Movement
● Capitalist class movement
● Constitution, Administrative and Judicial Development
● Advent of Europe
● India on the eve of British
● Rising Reasement Against company
● Personalities
● First phase of revolutionary
● Economic impact of British rule in India
Source:-
○ NCERT-6th to 12th
○ Ethics IAS Notes
C. Polity
● Making of constitutions
● Salient features of constitution
● Union & Territories
● Citizenship
● Preamble
● Fundamental Rights
● DPSP
● Fundamental Duties
● Constitution as a living document
● Centre State relations
● Inter State relations
● Emergency Provision
● Parliamentary and federal system
● UTs vs Special Areas
● Supreme Court
● High court
● Tribunal and CAT
● Subordinate Judiciary
● PIL and Judicial Review
● President
● Governor
● Vice president
● Prime Minister
● Chief Minister
● CoM and cabinet Committees
● Attorney General
● Advocate General
● Parliament
● State Government
● Panchayat
● Municipalities
● Cooperatives
● Constitutional Bodies
● Non- Constitutional Bodies
● Basic Structure
● Political Dimensions
Source:-
○ NCERT-6th to 12th
○ Ethics IAS Notes
D. Economy
● Basic of Economy
● Growth and Development
● Planning and its history in India
● Economic reform
● Niti Aayog
● Poverty
● Committees and methods measuring poverty
● Employment
● Inequality
● National Income
● Money
● Monetary Policy
● Banking System
● Inflation
● Public finance
● Fiscal policy
● Financial market
● Service sector
● External sector
● BoP
● International organization and indices
● Economic regulatory Bodies
● Bihar Economic Survey and Budget
● Indian Economic Survey and Budget
Source:-
○ NCERT-6th to 12th
○ Ethics IAS Notes
E. Geography
Source:-
● Ncert Class-11th and 12th
F. Science
Source:-
● Class 9th and 10th
G. Bihar Special
Source:-
● Ethics IAS Notes
E. Geography
Source:-
● Ncert Class-11th and 12th
F. Science
Source:-
● Class 9th and 10th
G. Bihar Special
Source:-
● Ethics IAS Notes
Mains Syllabus
GENERAL STUDIES
General studies papers I and paper II will cover the following areas of knowledge:-
GENERAL STUDIES PAPER- I
1. Modern History of India and Indian culture.
● In paper-I, Modern History of India and Indian Culture will cover the broad history of the country (with special reference to Bihar) from about the middle of the nineteenth century.
● The modern history of Bihar will include questions on the introduction and expansion of western education (including technical education).
● It will also have questions on Bihar’s role in the freedom struggle of India.
● Questions will relate to the Santhal Uprising, 1857 in Bihar, Birsa movement, Champaran Satyagrah and the Quit India Movement 1942.
● A knowledge of the chief features of Mauryan and Pal art and Patna Kalam painting will be expected from the examinees.
● It would also include questions about Gandhi, Tagore and Nehru.
● The part relating to statistical analysis, graphs and diagrams will include exercises to test the candidate’s ability to draw common sense conclusions from information presented in statistical, graphical or diagrammatic form and to point out deficiencies, limitations or inconsistencies therein.
Modern History of India
1. Pre-Colonial India
○ Political Structure: Major empires and kingdoms before British rule (e.g., Mughals, Marathas, Rajputs).
○ Socio-Economic Conditions: Trade, agriculture, and urbanization.
○ Cultural Developments: Art, literature, and religion.
2. Colonial Period
*British East India Company (1600-1874):
- Expansion and Consolidation: Key battles and treaties (e.g., Battle of Plassey, Treaty of Allahabad).
- Economic Impact: Changes in agriculture, industry, and trade.
* British Raj (1858-1947):
- Administrative Structure: Governance and administrative changes.
- Socio-Economic Impact: Impact on education, infrastructure, and economy.
- Cultural and Social Changes: Influence on Indian society, including reforms and resistance.
3. Freedom Struggle
- Early Movements: Formation of Indian National Congress, early leaders like Dadabhai Naoroji and Bal Gangadhar Tilak.
- Gandhian Era:
■ Non-Cooperation Movement: Methods and impacts.
■ Civil Disobedience Movement: Key events and outcomes.
■ Quit India Movement: Reasons, major incidents, and consequences. - Post-World War II:
■ Negotiations and Partition: Key negotiations leading to independence.
■ Independence and Partition: Impact on different communities and regions.
4. Post-Independence Era
- Early Challenges (1947-1960):
■ Integration of Princely States: Key issues and processes.
■ Economic Policies: Nehruvian socialism, first Five-Year Plans. - Political Changes (1960-1990):
■ Emergency Period: Causes and effects of the 1975 Emergency.
■ Economic Liberalization (1991): Reforms and impacts. - Recent Developments (1990-Present):
■ Economic Growth: Globalization and economic policies.
■ Political Landscape: Major political shifts and events.
Indian Culture
- Religion and Philosophy
○ Hinduism: Major deities, rituals, and practices.
○ Islam: Key beliefs, practices, and historical development in India.
○ Sikhism: Founding, teachings, and cultural impact.
○ Buddhism and Jainism: Historical significance and cultural contributions.
○ Contemporary Religious Dynamics: Inter-religious relations and modern trends. - Language and Literature
○ Classical Languages: Sanskrit, Tamil, Kannada, and their literary traditions.
○ Modern Languages: Development of Hindi, Bengali, Urdu, and others.
○ Literary Movements: Key figures and movements in modern Indian literature. - Art and Architecture
○ Classical Arts: Traditional painting, sculpture, and architecture (e.g., temples, forts).
○ Modern Art: Evolution and notable artists.
○ Architectural Styles: British colonial architecture, contemporary styles. - Music and Dance
○ Classical Music: Hindustani and Carnatic traditions.
○ Folk Music: Regional variations and styles.
○ Dance Forms: Classical (Bharatanatyam, Kathak) and folk dances. - Festivals and Rituals
○ Major Festivals: Diwali, Eid, Holi, Durga Puja, and others.
○ Regional Variations: Unique festivals and celebrations in different states. - Cuisine
○ Regional Varieties: North Indian, South Indian, Eastern, and Western cuisines.
○ Traditional Dishes: Signature dishes and their cultural significance.
○ Modern Influences: Fusion cuisine and contemporary trends. - Fashion and Textile
○ Traditional Clothing: Sarees, turbans, and regional attire.
○ Textile Industry: Traditional crafts (e.g., weaving, embroidery) and modern fashion trends. - Cinema and Media
○ Bollywood: History, evolution, and major films.
○ Regional Cinema: Notable film industries (e.g., Tollywood, Kollywood).
○ Television and Digital Media: Evolution and impact on society. - Daily Life and Social Structures
○ Family and Community: Traditional family structures and modern changes.
○ Social Norms: Customs, rituals, and changing social dynamics.
2. Current events of national and international importance.
National Current Events (India)
- Political Developments
○ Elections: Recent state and national elections, key outcomes, and implications.
○ Government Policies: New policies, reforms, and their impact on various sectors.
○ Political Parties and Leaders: Major party changes, leadership transitions, and their significance. - Economic Issues
○ Economic Growth: GDP trends, major sectors of growth, and economic forecasts.
○ Budget and Fiscal Policies: Recent budgets, fiscal strategies, and their impact.
○ Employment and Industry: Job creation, industrial growth, and challenges faced. - Social Issues
○ Healthcare: Developments in health policies, vaccination drives, and healthcare reforms.
○ Education: Changes in education policy, digital learning initiatives, and their effects.
○ Social Justice: Issues related to gender equality, caste discrimination, and social movements. - Environmental and Climate Issues
○ Climate Change Initiatives: Government actions and policies on climate change.
○ Natural Disasters: Recent disasters, response strategies, and recovery efforts.
○ Sustainability Efforts: Renewable energy projects, conservation efforts, and green policies. - Security and Defense
○ Internal Security: Challenges related to terrorism, insurgency, and crime.
○ Border Issues: Current disputes or agreements with neighboring countries.
○ Defense Developments: Military upgrades, defense policies, and strategic partnerships. - Science and Technology
○ Innovation: Major technological advancements and their applications.
○ Space Exploration: Recent missions, space research, and achievements.
○ Cybersecurity: Issues related to data security and digital infrastructure.
International Current Events
- Geopolitical Tensions
○ Conflicts and Wars: Ongoing conflicts, peace processes, and international interventions.
○ Diplomatic Relations: Major diplomatic developments and their global impact.
○ International Alliances: Key alliances, treaties, and their significance. - Economic Trends
○ Global Trade: Trade agreements, tariffs, and trade wars.
○ Financial Markets: Major market trends, economic crises, and forecasts.
○ Development Aid: International aid initiatives, their effectiveness, and controversies. - Human Rights and Social Justice
○ Global Movements: International human rights campaigns and their impact.
○ Refugee Crises: Current situations, international responses, and humanitarian efforts.
○ Equality Issues: Global progress on gender equality, racial justice, and LGBTQ+ rights. - Environmental and Climate Issues
○ Global Climate Agreements: Key international agreements (e.g., Paris Agreement) and their progress.
○ Natural Disasters: Recent global disasters, international aid, and recovery efforts.
○ Sustainability Efforts: Global initiatives on environmental protection and sustainable development. - Technology and Innovation
○ Global Tech Developments: Major technological advancements and their implications.
○ Cybersecurity: International cyber threats and responses.
○ Artificial Intelligence: Innovations, ethical considerations, and global impacts. - Health and Pandemic Issues
○ Global Health Policies: Responses to ongoing health crises and international cooperation.
○ Pandemic Management: Current status of global health pandemics, vaccination efforts, and research.
○ Healthcare Innovations: Advances in global health technologies and their implications. - Cultural and Social Trends
○ Global Culture: Major cultural events, trends, and their influence on society.
○ Media and Communication: Impact of global media on public opinion and international relations.
○ International Sports Events: Significant sports events, their global impact, and cultural significance.
GENERAL STUDIES PAPER- II
- Indian Polity
- Indian economy and Geography of India
- The role and impact of science and technology in the development of India.
● In Paper II, the part relating to Indian Polity, will include questions on the political system in India including Bihar.
● In the part pertaining to the Indian Economy and Geography of India, questions will be put on planning in India and the physical, economic and social geography of India and Bihar.
● In the third part relating to the role and impact of science and technology in the development of India, questions will be asked to test the candidate’s awareness of the role and impact of science and technology in India and Bihar Emphasis will be on applied aspects.
1. Indian Polity
- Introduction to Indian Polity
● Historical Background and Evolution: Overview of India’s political history, colonial influence, and the path to independence. Evolution of political institutions and democratic processes.
● Constitutional Development and Important Amendments: Key stages in the development of the Indian Constitution, important amendments, and their impact on the political system. - The Constitution of India
● Preamble and Fundamental Principles: Analysis of the Preamble, fundamental principles of the Constitution, and their significance in governance.
● Fundamental Rights and Duties: Detailed examination of Fundamental Rights (Part III) and Fundamental Duties (Part IVA), their scope, and implications.
● Directive Principles of State Policy: Overview of Directive Principles (Part IV), their role in guiding state policy, and their non-justiciable nature. - Federal Structure
● Union and State Relations: Distribution of powers between the Union and States, including the Union List, State List, and Concurrent List.
● Distribution of Powers and Responsibilities: Mechanisms for power distribution and delegation, and the role of the Inter-State Council.
● Emergency Provisions: Types of emergencies (National, State, and Financial), their declaration, and the impact on federal structure. - The Union Executive
● The President: Powers, functions, and responsibilities of the President of India, including the election process and emergency powers.
● The Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers: Role and powers of the Prime Minister, composition, and functions of the Council of Ministers, and collective responsibility.
● The Cabinet System: Structure and functioning of the Cabinet, including the role of various ministers and cabinet committees. - The Union Legislature
● The Parliament: Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha: Composition, powers, and functions of both houses of Parliament. The legislative process, including bill passage and law-making procedures.
● Legislative Process and Functions: Detailed steps in the legislative process, including introduction, discussion, and approval of bills.
● Role and Powers of Committees: Function and significance of various parliamentary committees (Standing, Select, Joint) in scrutiny and oversight. - The State Executive
● The Governor: Powers, functions, and appointment process of the Governor, including their role in state administration and emergency provisions.
● The Chief Minister and the State Council of Ministers: Role and powers of the Chief Minister, composition, and functions of the State Council of Ministers, and collective responsibility.
● Powers and Functions: Administrative, legislative, and financial powers of the state executive, and their impact on state governance. - The State Legislature
● State Legislative Assembly and Legislative Council: Composition, powers, and functions of the State Legislative Assembly and Legislative Council (where applicable).
● Functions and Powers: Legislative functions, budget approval, and other powers of state legislatures. - Local Government
● Panchayati Raj System: Structure, functions, and responsibilities of Panchayats at various levels (Gram Panchayat, Panchayat Samiti, Zilla Parishad), and their role in rural governance.
● Urban Local Bodies: Municipalities and Municipal Corporations: Structure and functions of municipalities and municipal corporations, including their role in urban administration.
● Elections and Functions: Electoral process for local bodies, functions, and challenges faced in local governance. - Judiciary
● The Supreme Court: Jurisdiction, powers, and functions of the Supreme Court of India, including its role in interpreting the Constitution and adjudicating disputes.
● High Courts: Structure, powers, and functions of High Courts in states, and their role in the judicial system.
● Lower Courts and Their Functions: Structure and functions of district courts, subordinate courts, and their role in the judiciary.
● Judicial Review and Independence: Concept of judicial review, independence of the judiciary, and mechanisms for maintaining impartiality. - Political Parties and Elections
● National and Regional Parties: Major national and regional political parties, their ideologies, structures, and impact on Indian politics.
● Election Commission and Electoral Process: Role and functions of the Election Commission, electoral process, and major electoral reforms.
● Recent Electoral Trends and Issues: Analysis of recent electoral trends, key issues, and their implications for Indian democracy. - Political System in Bihar
● Historical and Political Context: Historical evolution of Bihar’s political landscape and key milestones.
● State Government Structure and Functions: Structure of the state government, including executive, legislative, and judicial branches, and their functions.
● Local Governance in Bihar: Organization and functioning of local bodies in Bihar, including Panchayats and urban local bodies.
● Recent Developments and Key Issues: Analysis of recent political developments, key issues facing Bihar, and the impact of policies and governance on the state’s development.
3. Statistical analysis, graphs and diagrams.
Introduction to Statistical Analysis
- Basic Concepts and Terminology: Definitions of key statistical terms (mean, median, mode, variance, standard deviation).
- Types of Data: Qualitative vs. quantitative data, discrete vs. continuous data.
- Data Collection Methods: Surveys, experiments, observational studies, and data sources.
- Descriptive Statistics
● Measures of Central Tendency: Calculation and interpretation of mean, median, and mode.
● Measures of Dispersion: Range, variance, standard deviation, and interquartile range.
● Data Summarization: Frequency distributions, cumulative frequencies, and summary tables. - Probability and Probability Distributions
● Basic Probability Concepts: Probability rules, conditional probability, and Bayes’ theorem.
● Probability Distributions: Normal distribution, binomial distribution, and Poisson distribution.
● Descriptive Measures of Distributions: Skewness, kurtosis, and distribution shapes. - Inferential Statistics
● Hypothesis Testing: Null and alternative hypotheses, types of errors, and p-values.
● Confidence Intervals: Construction and interpretation for means and proportions.
● Statistical Tests: t-tests, chi-square tests, ANOVA (Analysis of Variance), and their applications. - Correlation and Regression Analysis
● Correlation Analysis: Pearson correlation coefficient, Spearman’s rank correlation, and interpretation of correlation coefficients.
● Simple Linear Regression: Concept of regression line, least squares method, and interpretation of coefficients.
● Multiple Regression Analysis: Extension to multiple predictors, model selection, and interpretation of results. - Graphs and Diagrams
*● Types of Graphs:
○ Bar Graphs: Construction and interpretation of vertical and horizontal bar charts.
○ Histograms: Use for continuous data, bin widths, and frequency distribution.
○ Pie Charts: Representation of proportions and percentage shares.
● Line Graphs: Displaying trends over time, plotting multiple series.
● Scatter Plots: Visualization of relationships between two variables and identifying patterns or correlations.
● Box Plots: Summary of distribution, quartiles, median, and identifying outliers. - Advanced Graphical Techniques
● Heat Maps: Visualization of data density and patterns through color gradients.
● Bubble Charts: Representation of three-dimensional data (x, y, and size).
● Error Bars: Adding error margins to graphs to represent variability and uncertainty. - Data Interpretation and Presentation
● Interpreting Graphs and Tables: Skills for analyzing and drawing conclusions from visual data representations.
● Data Presentation Techniques: Best practices for presenting statistical findings clearly and effectively.
● Common Pitfalls: Identifying misleading or poorly constructed graphs and diagrams.