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Essay Paper UPSC 2023 (Mains) Question Paper and Analysis

Last updated on September 27, 2023 by ClearIAS Team

UPSC conducted the Civil Service Mains exam for essay paper on 15 September 2023.

The CSE mains essay paper comprises two sections. Each section contains 4 essay topics. Out of which 2 topics of choice from each section need to be picked.

Candidates were supposed to answer about 1000-1200 words for each essay.

Table of Contents

UPSC CSE Essay Paper 2023 Instructions

General instructions mentioned on the essay paper, that need to be followed by every aspirant are provided here.

• Total Marks: 250 marks, Time duration: 3 hours.
• The essay must be written in the medium authorized in the admission certificate which must be stated clearly on the cover of this question-cum-answer (QCA) booklet in the space provided.
• No marks will be given for answers written in a medium other than the authorized one.
• Word limit, as specified, should be adhered to.
• Any page or portion of the page left blank, must be struck off clearly.

Essay Question Paper: UPSC Civil Services Main Exam (Written) 2023

The question paper of the UPSC CSE mains essay paper is provided here.

Write  two  essays, choosing  one  topic from each of the following Sections A and B, in about 1000-1200 words each:

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1: Thinking is like a game, it does not begin unless there is an opposite team.

2: Visionary decision-making happens at the intersection of intuition and logic.

3: Not all who wander are lost.

4: Inspiration for creativity springs from the effort to look for the magical in the mundane.

5: Girls are weighed down by restrictions, boys with demands- two equally harmful disciplines.

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6: Mathematics is the music of reasons.

7: A society that has more justice is a society that needs less charity.

8: Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in school.

UPSC Mains Essay Paper 2023: Exam Analysis

The essay topics for the UPSC Civil Services Main Exam in 2023 were intellectually demanding and philosophical in nature.

They required candidates to engage in deep critical thinking and present their thoughts logically.

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All the questions in this year’s paper aimed at assessing the candidates’ ability to handle abstract concepts and express their ideas effectively in a structured manner.

This year’s essay topics look like that UPSC has taken inspiration from a wide range of sources, including philosophical and literary works.

Thinking is like a game, it does not begin unless there is an opposite team

This topic seems to revolve around the idea that critical thinking often emerges in response to opposing viewpoints or challenges.

Candidates may have been asked to explore how the clash of ideas leads to innovation and progress.

Visionary decision-making happens at the intersection of intuition and logic.

This famous saying belongs to Paul O’Brien.

This statement likely prompted candidates to discuss the balance between intuition and rationality in making important decisions.

It encourages a reflection on the role of both factors in effective leadership and problem-solving

Not all who wander are lost

This saying belongs to J.R.R. Tolkien,  The Fellowship of the Ring.

The topic expected from candidates to think about how exploring and being spontaneous in life’s journey can be really good.

It’s a deep topic that can be understood in many different ways.

Inspiration for creativity springs from the effort to look for the magical in the mundane

This essay topic appears to emphasize the idea that creativity is not limited to rare moments of inspiration but can be found in everyday experiences.

It probably asked people to think about where creativity comes from and how we can express it in our daily lives.

Girls are weighed down by restrictions, boys with demands- two equally harmful disciplines

This is the saying of Simone de Beauvoir

Simone de Beauvoir was a prominent French existentialist philosopher and feminist thinker. She made significant contributions to feminist philosophy through her work, including “The Second Sex,” where she discussed the concept of “The Other” and examined the role of societal expectations in shaping women’s lives.

The quote by Simone de Beauvoir presented the idea that both girls and boys or individuals of different genders, often face distinct but equally harmful forms of societal pressures and constraints.

It suggests that expectations placed on girls (referred to as “restrictions”) and boys (referred to as “demands”) can be damaging and limit their potential.

Mathematics is the music of reasons

The complete saying of James Joseph Sylvester is that mathematics is the music of reason. May not music be described as the mathematics of the sense, mathematics as music of the reason? The musician feels mathematics, the mathematician thinks music: music the dream, mathematics the working life.”

This statement suggests a poetic connection between mathematics and music. Candidates likely had to discuss the beauty and logic inherent in mathematics and its role in shaping our understanding of the world.

A society that has more justice is a society that needs less charity

This topic seems to touch upon the ideas of social justice and charity, which have been discussed by philosophers like John Rawls and the concept of the “veil of ignorance.”

Candidates may have been asked to explore the relationship between justice, equality, and philanthropy in society.

Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in school

Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in school –  Albert Einstein .

This essay topic likely demands from candidates to reflect on the value of education beyond rote memorization.

It may have expect discussion on the practical application of knowledge and lifelong learning.

What Should Aspirants Preparing for UPSC CSE for Next Year do for an essay paper?

Taking the essay paper in the UPSC exam seriously is important. This paper requires you to write 10-12 pages about abstract or philosophical topics, which can be challenging if you’re not well-prepared.

To succeed in this exam and perform well in the essay paper, you should work on improving your comprehension and analytical skills. To get additional guidance you can join the ClearIAS essay writing program as well.

One helpful way to prepare is by reading various types of essays, especially philosophical ones. Pay special attention to the ideas of famous philosophers like Immanuel Kant, Thomas Aquinas, John Locke, Friedrich Nietzsche, Karl Marx, and others.

Practice writing essays based on famous quotes, as this is a common format in UPSC exams.

Additionally, be ready to write essays on a wide range of topics, including society, politics, the economy, and technology. UPSC asks such types of questions too.

Keep in mind that there isn’t a fixed pattern for UPSC questions. Analyze previous year’s question papers to get valuable insight. So, focus on understanding the way UPSC frames questions rather than expecting a consistent trend.

Related Posts

• Essay Course for UPSC CSE – The Art of Essay Writing
• ClearIAS launches Essay Writing Course for UPSC
• 10 Common Essay Writing Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

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UPSC CSE MAINS 2021: ESSAY PAPER FOR UPSC- IN-DEPTH ANALYSIS

The Essay Writing Paper for UPSC CSE 2021  is indicative of the fact that the exam is not merely about factual knowledge, but much beyond it. This year’s paper seems to analyze the box and critical thinking  of the aspirants.

Essay writing papers for Upsc Cse mains 2021 took especially those  aspirants by surprise  who went in with a preconceived notion of the traditional paper. This was where aspirants could use their usual ammunition where they were taught how to feed data points in different ways.

As a lot of our students aptly summed up  the analysis of the essay paper  in the comment sections of the  discussion video (link here)  there is only one word needed to describe the nature of this paper ‘philosophical’. However, the key thing required for writing on these topics was generic/real-life treatment and not core philosophical interpretations.

Table of Contents

Essay Writing Paper, UPSC CSE 2021

Write two essays, choosing one topic from each of the following Sections A and B, in about 1000-1200 words each:

• The process of self-discovery has now been technologically outsourced.
• Your perception of me is a reflection of you; my reaction to you is an awareness of me.
• The philosophy of witlessness is utopian, while materialism is a chimera.
• The real is rational and the rational is real.
• The hand that rocks the cradle rules the world.
• What is research, but a blind date with knowledge?
• History repeats itself, first as a tragedy, second as a farce.
• There are better practices to best practices.

Essay Writing Paper UPSC 2021 Detailed Analysis

Here is a list of our humble observations in an attempt to understand the nature of the paper.

• All the 8 questions were abstract topics.
• It was a logical culmination of the process that UPSC has lately followed for deep interpretation and introspection.
• Now the essay paper is no longer an extension of GS. It must be prepared differently.
• Essays are now a reflection of one’s personality as the topics demand one to think critically.
• It is quality over quantity that matters now. In simple words, 800-900 words are more than enough if the dimensions are well thought out and are substantiated with good case studies.

Scale of Difficulty

Moving forward, below is a deconstruction of the Essay Paper section wise and topic-wise:

Essay Paper UPSC 2021: Section Wise Analysis:

Clear thematic categorization of sections A and B

The two sections of the paper were categorized to cover two aspects of philosophical discourses –

• Section A  listed a set of topics with  the theme of self-reflective tone , where the subject ponders upon the impact of technology on one’s consciousness, the process of constructed realities of the mind, a critique of both asceticism and hedonism and the relationship of ideas with the reality of the world.
• Section B turned the subject of philosophical thinking from the human to the society, as if the society is reflecting upon itself – the topics covered the themes of the role of the mother in determining human destiny, the playfulness and creativity of research and knowledge, the famous quotation by Hegel and Marx about history repeating itself and a gentle mention of better practices and best practices.

Essay Paper UPSC 2021: Topic Wise Analysis:

Topics were borrowed from standard academic references.  They were drafted by people with a sincere command over the subject of philosophy, as they were not merely quotations, but sentences with layers of complexity which even students of philosophy optional may have found hard to unpack without effort.

Meaning and Approach to ESSAY Paper TOPICS 2021:

Topic 1: the process of self-discovery has now been technologically outsourced..

• Difficult topic because a particular/specific interpretation was required.
• Not a general moral critique of technology. Seems a general critique of our process of self-discovery.
• Examples/case studies are important for this kind of essay where the use of technology solves our problems but takes us away from self-realization.
• To put it in simple terms, sometimes the problems that we face as humans are not supposed to be immediately solved as we usually do by employing technology.
• The role of AI and Artificial Intelligence, Tech-based consultants, Thought processes, and Biotech  could be discussed as part of current affairs and GS reading for this topic.

Topic 2: Your perception of me is a reflection of you; my reaction to you is awareness of me

• This is perhaps the trickiest topic in the whole paper as two different dimensions of epistemology (subjective and objective) were fused into one essay.
• Most topics in section A talk about self-knowledge but this one is not about achieving self-knowledge but elaborating upon an already achieved self-knowledge.
• The fundamental value that can be discussed in this essay is humility, the need to introspect about one’s self, and the merits of exercising restraint .

Topic 3: The philosophy of witlessness is utopian, while materialism is a chimera

• In this topic, there are two propositions-  asceticism and hedonism  and both open themselves for a critical analysis.
• This is one topic that has an underlying critical tone.
• The topic is more about sustainable development, a balance between growth and development  which requires proper GS and current affairs base to add illustrations.

Topic 4: The real is rational and rational is real

• This is a quotation by Hegel, who was a philosopher in the tradition of German idealism. German idealism insisted on the proposition that the material world is the reflection of the world of ideas. It implies that if you can think of something as true it probably must exist in reality.
• The main thrust of this essay is to emphasize  intuition, theoretical powers of the mind, the power of big ideas, and the ability to think big, even if “big ideas” might look “unreasonable and unrealistic”
• Word of caution:  The term rational should not lead a student to interpret it as an essay in which scientific thinking has to be promoted and religious/spiritual thinking has to be criticized.
• The point that Hegel was trying to make was that even the idea of God/spirituality also comes from rational thinking.

Topic 5: The hand that rocks the cradle rules the world .

• This one is the easiest of all the topics this year.
• It hints at the power of the role of a mother/caregiver to shape society.
• This is one of the least abstract and more sociological topics of the exam and therefore the data on women’s rights, and women’s empowerment can be made relevant in this essay.

Topic 6: What is research, but a blind date with knowledge?

• The clear interpretation of the essay is that there is always  an element of risk, adventure, imagination, and open-mindedness in research.
• In simple words, research must be taken for the pleasure of discovering truth and any form of knowledge that follows from research must be appreciated.
• This topic also encourages an open and rational mindset in any research and study with the ability not to be influenced by biases and prejudice.
• Data points like nations with the best research institutes and Universities eventually are also more prosperous and just.

Topic 7: History repeats itself, first as a tragedy, second as a farce.

• It is a famous Marxist quotation brought into current relevance by some contemporary events like  the impact of the pandemic, conflicts, and environmental problems on the economy and society.
• The key interpretation of the topic is that if something unjust, wrong, or indemnifying happens to us once, then we can interpret it as a tragedy, where no one can be blamed for a tragedy. However, if it happens repeatedly then an evil motivation must be involved.
• Repeated mismanagement during successive COVID waves is a classic example of this.
• Care should be taken by those candidates who identified it correctly as a quote by Marx as that does not mean that the essay is about Marx or Communism vs. Capitalism or a history-based topic alone.
• Climate change, Afghan crises, the Middle East, Mismanagement during the pandemic, and Religious conflicts and riots  can be directly mentioned as illustrations based on current affairs and GS readings.

Topic 8: There are better practices to best practices.

• The clear-cut interpretation of this topic is that we cannot be convinced of having achieved the best practices ever and we always can improve ourselves endlessly .
• This also implies that we must follow an action-oriented philosophy and not wait for perfection to arrive at our ideas.
• Examples from cultural practices, social practices, political practices, and economic practices can be cited from a wide range, which is one essay where examples can be thought of easily if the interpretation is correct.
• The  core value  of this essay can be summed up as  the pursuit of excellence and not of perfection.

Implications- Essay For UPSC:

Many aspirants appearing in mains do not practice Essay writing as much as they should.  One must avoid such a blunder.  Being a paper largely dominated by abstract topics, it is indicative of the fact that it is one of the critical ways of checking the interpersonal skills  of the candidates and how they can present case studies and interpret them in the examination.

Therefore, the following  parameters should be kept in mind  while preparing for Essays:

• Comprehension of the topics: There should be a clear understanding of the essay topics asked in previous years. Next comes the segregation of topics into abstract and topical essays.
• Creative writing skills
• Coherent and cohesive ideas
• Time management
• Current affairs should be read diligently as these help in generating good illustrations.
• Certain themes around women, education, morality, technology, etc., should be well prepared
• The regular practice of writing 10-12 pages should be the norm.
• The target should be to score above 140 marks.

The Road Ahead- Essay Writing For UPSC:

• This year the UPSC has gone all out to emphasize that the routine delivery of facts learned from studying General Studies cannot be mindlessly reproduced in the essay paper.
• The students must develop an ability to appreciate the abstraction of thought and use the data points carefully to suit the given context.
• The UPSC has indicated with this paper that an inability to comprehend or express complex thoughts in simple terms cannot be an excuse for not being comfortable with the Essay paper, where ALL the topics are of such a nature there is no alternative to learning to cultivate some reading and writing skills.
• The interesting part is that developing these basic skills is not difficult at all and we are sometimes just late in overcoming such fears due to a lack of proper guidance .
• Further, there has to be a different approach while attempting such a paper as these topics are beyond general studies and require  an awakened mind to deconstruct such topics.
• One must understand that UPSC always surprises everyone with the kind of questions they ask.

How Edukemy’s Essay Writing Program Can Help?

• Edukemy’s Essay Program  includes sessions where we pay special attention to  the techniques of interpreting the topics  of the essay correctly and expressing our thoughts clearly and simply with appropriate vocabulary.
• Abstract essays form an essential part of Edukemy’s module course  on Essay writing which focuses on cultivating the habit of thinking in abstraction and multi-layered approaches of using facts and data points to suit the philosophical themes.
• Edukemy stands out in curating a list of reading material (Famous Book Summaries/Excerpts and Philosophies of Famous Personalities) which we publish and regularly update along with our essay programs. There is additional material where quotes, examples, and case studies are provided for important essay themes.
• Edukemy’s Essay Test Series can help you develop a regular practice routine and improve your writing style through detailed and personalized feedback.

1. What is the format of the UPSC CSE Mains 2021 Essay Paper?

A: The UPSC CSE Mains 2021 Essay Paper consists of two sections, each containing four essay topics. Candidates are required to write two essays, one from each section. The word limit for each essay is 1,000-1,200 words. The topics cover a wide range of issues, and candidates are expected to critically analyze and present their thoughts on the given subjects.

2. How should I approach essay writing in UPSC CSE Mains 2021?

A: Approaching the essay paper requires a strategic mindset. Begin by understanding the demands of the topic, brainstorming ideas, and structuring your essay coherently. Emphasize a balanced and analytical approach, supported by facts, examples, and relevant quotations. Make sure to showcase a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. Time management is crucial, so allocate time wisely between the two essays.

3. What is the role of current affairs in the Essay Paper for UPSC CSE Mains 2021?

A: While the essay topics may not explicitly mention current events, candidates are expected to integrate contemporary issues into their essays. This showcases an awareness of the world around them and the ability to connect theoretical knowledge with practical situations. Including relevant examples and case studies from recent events can significantly enhance the quality of the essay.

4. How are essays evaluated in UPSC CSE Mains 2021?

A: Essays are evaluated based on several criteria, including clarity of expression, coherence, relevance of content, originality of thought, and the ability to present a well-structured argument. Examiners look for a candidate’s ability to critically analyze issues, provide a balanced perspective, and communicate ideas effectively. Clear and concise writing with proper grammar and language usage is also crucial.

5. Can I use bullet points or diagrams in my essays for UPSC CSE Mains 2021?

A: The UPSC recommends a traditional essay format, and the use of bullet points or diagrams is generally discouraged. However, if it aids in clarity and better presentation of your ideas, candidates can use them sparingly. It’s essential to prioritize a coherent narrative and ensure that the essay meets the specified word limit. Excessive use of bullet points or diagrams may lead to a loss of depth in the analysis.

In case you still have your doubts, contact us on 9811333901.  

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UPSC Essay Topic wise Question Papers of last 31 years (1993-2023) for Civil Services IAS/IPS Exam Free Download

In the UPSC mains examination, essay paper is worth 250 marks and three hours. Here is the topic wise questions from the earlier years for the benefit of civil service IAS IPS aspirants.

1.1 India Since Independence

1.2 federalism, decentralization, 1.3 administration, 1.4 judiciary, 1.5 poverty, social justice, 1.6 indian society, culture and values, 1.7 media, tv & cinema, literature, 2.1 growth vs development, 2.2 environment vs development, 2.4 sectors of economy, 3.1 values in education, 3.2 scheme implementation, 3.3 higher education, 4.1 character, honesty, ethics, 4.2 knowledge, 4.3 compassion, 4.4 truth and reality, 4.5 youth, discipline, 4.6 towards excellence, 5.1 @national politics, 5.2 @world / quote type, 5.3 empowerment overall, 5.4 compared to men, 6.1 globalization, 6.2 international org./ bilateral, 6.3 security, 6.4 history, 7.1 science and religion, 7.2 science and education, 7.3 computer and internet, 7.4 sci-tech: others, appendix: linear paper of upsc essay 2023, appendix: linear paper of upsc essay 2022, appendix: model answer pe free lecture & powerpoint, appendix: syllabus of essay paper in upsc, 1 india: democracy, administration, society, culture.

• Is the Colonial mentality hindering India’s Success? -2013
• In the context of Gandhiji’s views on the matter, explore, on an evolutionary scale, the terms ‘Swadhinata’, ‘Swaraj’ and ‘Dharmarajya’. Critically comment on their contemporary relevance to Indian democracy -2012
• Dreams which should not let India sleep. -2015
• Why should we be proud of being Indians? -2000
• Whither Indian democracy? -1995
• How far has democracy in India delivered the goods? -2003
• What we have not learnt during fifty years of independence. -1997
• What have we gained from our democratic set-up? -2001
• My vision of India in 2001 a.d. -1993
• Impact of the new economic measures on fiscal ties between the union and states in India. -2017
• Water disputes between States in federal India. -2016
• Cooperative federalism : Myth or reality. -2016
• Creation of smaller states and the consequent administrative, economic and developmental implication -2011
• Evaluation of panchayati raj system in India from the point of view of eradication of power to people. -2007
• Water resources should be under the control of the central government. -2004
• The language problem in India: its past, present and prospects. -1998
• There are better practices to “best practices”. -2021
• How should a civil servant conduct himself? -2003
• Politics without ethics is a disaster. -1995
• The VIP cult is a bane of Indian democracy -1996
• Need for transparency in public administration -1996
• The country’s need for a better disaster management system. -2000
• Politics, bureaucracy and business – fatal triangle. -1994
• We may brave human laws but cannot resist natural laws. -2017
• Justice must reach the poor -2005
• Judicial activism and Indian democracy. -2004
• Judicial activism. -1997
• A society that has more justice is a society that needs less charity. (- जिस समाज में अधिक न्याय होता है उस समाज को दान की कम आवश्यकता होती है।) – 2023
• There can be no social justice without economic prosperity but economic prosperity without social justice is meaningless (बिना आर्थिक समृद्धि के सामाजिक न्याय नहीं हो सकता, किन्तु बिना सामाजिक न्याय के आर्थिक समृद्धि निरर्थक है ) -2020
• Neglect of primary health care and education in India are reasons for its backwardness. -2019
• The focus of health care is increasingly getting skewed towards the ‘haves’ of our society. -2009
• Food security for sustainable national development -2005
• Reservation, politics and empowerment. -1999
• Culture is what we are, civilization is what we have (जो हम है, वह संस्कार; जो हमारे पास है, वह सभ्यता ) -2020
• Indian culture today: a myth or a reality? -2000
• Modernism and our traditional socio-ethical values. -2000
• The composite culture of India. -1998
• The Indian society at the crossroads. -1994
• From traditional Indian philanthropy to the gates-buffet model-a natural progression or a paradigm shift? -2010
• New cults and godmen: a threat to traditional religion -1996
• Biased media is a real threat to Indian democracy. -2019
• Responsibility of media in a democracy. -2002
• Role of media in good governance -2008
• Does Indian cinema shape our popular culture or merely reflect it? -2011
• How has satellite television brought about cultural change in Indian mindsets? -2007
• Is sting operation an invasion on privacy? -2014
• Mass media and cultural invasion. -1999
• The misinterpretation and misuse of freedom in India. -1998
• Poets are the unacknowledged legislators of the world (कवि संसार के अनधिकृत रूप से विधायक होते हैं) – 2022

2 Economy, Development

• Poverty anywhere is a threat to prosperity everywhere. -2018
• Digital economy: A leveller or a source of economic inequality. -2016
• Innovation is the key determinant of economic growth and social welfare. -2016
• Near jobless growth in India: An anomaly or an outcome of economic reforms. -2016
• Crisis faced in India – moral or economic. -2015
• Was it the policy paralysis or the paralysis of implementation which slowed the growth of our country? -2014
• GDP (Gross Domestic Product) along with GDH (Gross Domestic Happiness) would be the right indices for judging the wellbeing of a country-2013
• Can capitalism bring inclusive growth? -2015
• Resource management in the Indian context. -1999
• Economic growth without distributive justice is bound to breed violence. -1993
• Forests are the best case studies for economic excellence (आर्थिक समृद्धि हासिल करने के मामले में वन सर्वोत्तम प्रतिमान होते हैं।) – 2022
• Alternative technologies for a climate change resilient India. -2018
• Should a moratorium be imposed on all fresh mining in tribal areas of the country? -2010
• Urbanisation and its hazards -2008
• Protection of ecology and environment is essential for sustained economic development. -2006
• Urbanization is a blessing in disguise. -1997
• Ecological considerations need not hamper development. -1993
• Globalization would finish small-scale industries in India. -2006
• Multinational corporations – saviours or saboteurs -1994
• Special economic zone: boon or bane -2008
• Is the criticism that the ‘Public-Private-Partnership’ (PPP) model for development is more of a bane than a boon in the Indian context, justified ?-2012
• Farming has lost the ability to be a source of subsistence for majority of farmers in India. -2017
• BPO boom in India. -2007
• Tourism: Can this be the next big thing for India? -2014
• Are our traditional handicrafts doomed to a slow death? -2009

3 Education

• Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in – school. (- शिक्षा वह है जो विद्यालय में विधालय में सीखी गई बातों को भूल जाने के बाद भी शेष रह जाती है।)
• Destiny of a nation is shaped in its classrooms. -2017
• Education without values, as useful as it is, seems rather to make a man more clever devil-2015
• Independent thinking should be encouraged right form the childhood. -2007
• Are the standardized tests good measure of academic ability or progress? -2014
• Irrelevance of the classroom. -2001
• Is the growing level of competition good for the youth? -2014
• Literacy is growing very fast, but there is no corresponding growth in education. -1996
• Is an egalitarian society possible by educating the masses ? -2008
• What is real education? -2005
• “Education for all” campaign in India: myth or reality. -2006
• Restructuring of Indian education system. -1995
• Privatization of higher education in India. -2002
• Credit – based higher education system – status, opportunities and challenges -2011

4 Quote based, Philosophy, Ethics

• A smile is the chosen vehicle for all ambiguities (हर असमंजस के लिए मुस्कराहट ही चुनिन्दा साधन है) – 2022
• Philosophy of wantlessness is a Utopian, while materialism is a chimera. -2021
• Your perception of me is a reflection of you; my reaction to you is an awareness of me. -2021
• Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication (सरलता चरम परिष्करण है ) -2020
• Ships don’t sink because of water around them ships sink because of water that gets into them (जहाज अपने चारों तरफ के पानी के वजह से नहीं डूबा करते, जहाज पानी के अंदर समां जाने की वजह से डूबता हैं ) -2020
• Life is a long journey between being human and being humane.  (मनुष्य होने और मानव बनने के बीच का लम्बा सफर ही जीवन है)-2020
• Values are not what humanity is, but what humanity ought to be -2019
• Best for an individual is not necessarily best for the society -2019
• Courage to accept and dedication to improve are two keys to success -2019
• Wisdom finds truth -2019
• A people that values its privileges above its principles loses both. -2018
• Customary morality cannot be a guide to modem file. -2018
• Need brings greed, if greed increases it spoils breed. -2016
• Character of an institution is reflected in its leader. -2015
• With greater power comes greater responsibility. -2014
• Words are sharper than the two-edged sword. -2014
• Attitude makes, habit makes character and character makes a man. -2007
• He would reigns within himself and folds his passions and desires and fears is more than a king. -1993
• Thinking is like a game, it does not begin unless there is an opposite team. (- सोच एक खेल की तरह है, यह तब तक शुरू नहीं होता है जब तक कि एक विपरीत टीम/पक्ष न हो।) – 2023
• Mathematics is the music of reason. (- गणित ज्ञान का संगीत है।) – 2023
• The real is rational and the rational is real. -2021
• Mindful manifesto is the catalyst to a tranquil self (विचारपरक संकल्प स्वयं के शांतचित्त रहने का उत्प्रेरक है )-2020
• ‘The past’ is a permanent dimension of human consciousness and values. -2018
• A good life is one inspired by love and guided by knowledge. -2018
• There is nothing either good or bad but thinking makes it so. -2003
• Disinterested intellectual curiosity is the lifeblood of civilisation. -1995
• Joy is the simplest form of gratitude. -2017
• Compassion is the basic of all morality of the world -1993
• Lending hands to someone is better than giving a dole. -2015
• Be the change you want to see in others (Gandhi)-2013
• Just because you have a choice, it does not mean that any of them has to be right (केवल इसलिए कि आपके पास विकल्प हैं, इसका यह अर्थ कदापि नहीं है कि उनमें से किसी को भी ठीक होना ही होगा) – 2022
• Reality does not conform to the ideal, but confirms it. -2018
• Truth is lived, not taught -1996
• When money speaks, the truth is silent. -1995
• Search for truth can only be a spiritual problem. -2002
• The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining (छप्पर मरम्मत करने का समय तभी होता है, जब धूप खिली हुई हो) – 2022
• You cannot step twice in the same river (आप उसी नदी में दोबारा नहीं उतर सकते) – 2022
• Discipline means success, anarchy means ruin -2008
• Youth is a blunder, manhood a struggle, old age a regret -1994
• If youth knew, if age could. -2002
• Youth culture today. -1999
• Fifty Golds in Olympics: Can this be a reality for India? -2014
• Visionary decision-making happens at the intersection of intuition and logic. (- दूरदर्शी निर्णय तभी लिए जाते है अंतर्ज्ञान और तर्क का परस्पर मेल होता है।) – 2023
• Not all who wander are lost. (- भटकने वाले सभी गुम नहीं हो जाते।) – 2023
• Inspiration for creativity springs from the effort to look for the magical in the mundane (- रचनात्मकता की प्रेरणा अलौकिक ता में चमत्कार ढूंढने के प्रयास से उपजति है) – 2023
• A ship in harbour is safe, but that is not what ship is for (जहाज बन्दरगाह के भीतर सुरक्षित होता है, परन्तु इसके लिए तो वह होता नहीं है) – 2022
• Quick but steady wins the race. -2015
• Useless life is an early death. -1994
• Our deeds determine us, as much as we determine our deeds. -1995
• The paths of glory lead but to the grave. -2002
• The pursuit of excellence. -2001

5 Women empowerment

• Greater political power alone will not improve women’s plight. -1997
• Women’s reservation bill would usher in empowerment for women in India. -2006
• The new emerging women power: the ground realities. -1995
• Hand that rocks the cradle rules the world. -2021
• If women ruled the world -2005
• The hand that rocks the cradle -2005
• Patriarchy is the least noticed yet the most significant structure of social inequality (पितृ-सत्ता की व्यवस्था नजर मैं बहुत काम आने के बावजूद सामाजिक विषमता की सबसे प्रभावी संरचना है) -2020
• Fulfilment of ‘new woman’ in India is a myth. -2017
• If development is not engendered, it is endangered. -2016
• Whither women’s emancipation? -2004
• Empowerment alone cannot help our women. -2001
• Women empowerment: challenges and prospects. -1999
• Woman is god’s best creation. -1998
• Men have failed: let women take over. -1993
• Managing work and home – is the Indian working woman getting a fair deal ?-2012

6 International issues, Internal Security, History

• South Asian societies are woven not around the state, but around their plural cultures and plural identities. -2019
• Modernisation and westernisation are not identical concepts. -1994
• ‘globalization’ vs. ‘nationalism’ -2009
• National identity and patriotism -2008
• Globalizations and its impact on Indian culture. -2004
• The masks of new imperialism. -2003
• As civilization advances culture declines. -2003
• The implications of globalization for India. -2000
• My vision of an ideal world order. -2001
• India’s contribution to world wisdom. -1998
• The world of the twenty-first century. -1998
• Preparedness of our society for India’s global leadership role. -2010
• Technology as the silent factor in international relations (अंतर्राष्ट्रीय संबंधों मैं मौन करक के रूप मैं प्रौद्योगिकी) -2020
• Has the Non-Alignment Movement (NAM) lost its relevance in a multipolar world ? -2017
• Restructuring of UNO reflect present realities -1996
• The global order: political and economic -1993
• India’s role in promoting ASEAN co-operation. -2004
• Importance of Indo-US nuclear agreement -2006
• Management of Indian border dispute is a complex task. -2018
• In the Indian context , both human intelligence and technical intelligence are crucial in combating terrorism -2011
• Are we a ‘soft’ state ? -2009
• Good fences make good neighbours -2009
• Is autonomy the best answer to combat balkanization? -2007
• Terrorism and world peace -2005
• True religion cannot be misused. -1997
• History repeats itself, first as tragedy, second as farce. -2021
• Geography may remain the same ; history need not. -2010

7 Science-Technology

• Spirituality and scientific temper. -2003
• Science and Mysticism : Are they compatible ?-2012
• What is research, but a blind date with knowledge! -2021
• Modern technological education and human values. -2002
• Value-based science and education. -1999
• The march of science and the erosion of human values. -2001
• The process of self-discovery has now been technologically outsourced. -2021
• Rise of Artificial Intelligence: the threat of jobless future or better job opportunities through reskilling and upskilling. -2019
• ‘Social media’ is inherently a selfish medium. -2017
• Cyberspace and Internet : Blessing or curse to the human civilization in the long run -2016
• Increasing computerization would lead to the creation of a dehumanized society. -2006
• The cyberworld: its charms and challenges. -2000
• Computer: the harbinger of silent revolution. -1993
• Technology cannot replace manpower. -2015
• Science and technology is the panacea for the growth and security of the nation-2013
• The modern doctor and his patients. -1997
• The lure of space. -2004

Section-A (write any one)

• Thinking is like a game, it does not begin unless there is an opposite team. (- सोच एक खेल की तरह है, यह तब तक शुरू नहीं होता है जब तक कि एक विपरीत टीम/पक्ष न हो।)
• Visionary decision-making happens at the intersection of intuition and logic. (- दूरदर्शी निर्णय तभी लिए जाते है अंतर्ज्ञान और तर्क का परस्पर मेल होता है।)
• Not all who wander are lost. (- भटकने वाले सभी गुम नहीं हो जाते।)
• Inspiration for creativity springs from the effort to look for the magical in the mundane (- रचनात्मकता की प्रेरणा अलौकिक ता में चमत्कार ढूंढने के प्रयास से उपजति है)

Section-B (write any one)

• Girls are weighed down by restrictions, boys with demands – two equally harmful disciplines. (-लड़कियां बंदिशों के तथा लड़के अपेक्षा के बोझ तले दबे हुए होते हैं दोनों ही समान रूप से हानिकारक व्यवस्थाएं हैं।)
• Mathematics is the music of reason. (- गणित ज्ञान का संगीत है।)
• A society that has more justice is a society that needs less charity. (- जिस समाज में अधिक न्याय होता है उस समाज को दान की कम आवश्यकता होती है।)

Answer one-one essay from each section in 1000-1200 words

• History is a series of victories won by the scientific man over the romantic man (इतिहास वैज्ञानिक मनुष्य के रूमानी मनुष्य पर विजय हासिल करने का एक सिलसिला है।) – 2022
• A ship in harbour is safe, but that is not what ship is for (जहाज बन्दरगाह के भीतर सुरक्षित होता है, परन्तु इसके लिए तो वह होता नहीं है) & 2022
• Just because you have a choice, it does not mean that any of them has to be right (केवल इसलिए कि आपके पास विकल्प हैं, इसका यह अर्थ कदापि नहीं है कि उनमें से किसी को भी ठीक होना ही होगा) – 2022

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.

IAS Essays: Approach and Analysis | UPSC Mains Essay Preparation PDF Download

Introduction.

It is crucial to possess a comprehensive comprehension of the fundamental principles underlying these essays and strive to grasp the inherent concepts carried by the essay topics. This is essential for gaining a broad understanding of the thematic subjects of these essays. Examining a few past essay topics can be helpful in discerning the intricacies embedded in these essays. For instance:

• Should there be a moratorium on all new mining activities in tribal areas of the country?
• Is our society adequately prepared for India's global leadership role?
• Analyzing the transition from traditional Indian philanthropy to the Gates-Buffett model — is it a natural progression or a paradigm shift?

The first Essay Topic

• The first essay, ‘should a moratorium be imposed on all fresh mining in tribal areas of the country’, throws open a difference of opinion and expects the candidates to solve the riddle of development on one hand and preservation of tribal culture, on the other. On one hand, we are bound by developmental responsibilities to find out newer prospects for industrialisation based on cheap and amply available raw materials to boost our production for the elimination of poverty and hunger that in turn improve the living standard. The challenge of improving the living standard of two-thirds of the population can only be overcome by exploring the possibilities of rapid industrialisation. The second five year plan was the envision of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru—a great visionary, statesman and one of the founding fathers of our nation. Hence, it becomes all the more necessary to mine the mineral-rich places that are often near plateaus and hilly areas. However, it is to be kept in mind that these places are inhabited by our primitive tribes. They represent the rare heritage of our ancient culture, values and practices that have gradually diminished to become endangered today and are on the verge of extinction. Preserving them and their interests is our national, moral and humane responsibility.
• Moreover, they have nothing to do with our ambitious developmental projects as the fruits of development hardly reach them. Hence, confronted with this sophisticated situation, a mature, balanced, intelligent and innovative approach is needed to tackle both these critical and important issues in equal measure. At the same time, significant attention has to be paid while expressing opinion in support of or against any of these two needs, as these are very delicate and sensitive issues. Hence, the need of the hour is to take what Buddha preached a middle path or Aristotle’s golden mean of the two, that is, granting the permission of mining to only those areas where the mobilisation and displacement of these naturally habituated tribes is low and where they could be provided similar alternate habitat to feel at home even after their displacement. 
• Though, our previous experiences of displacement failed to meet our expectations and the interests of these tribes, but we can learn and identify the possible areas of their vulnerability out of those experiences. Three categories can be identified:  (1) Special case, where tribals have a unique habitat with no alternate option, (2) Where the displacement options are available and (3) Where they agree to adapt to the mainstream development-borne life style, for example, few areas of northeastern states. Regions falling under the first category would not be suitable for mining considerations while the other two cases may allow mining but with utmost care and precaution. Therefore, it can be concluded that a clear cut order banning all fresh mining activities in tribal areas of the country shall be in contravention to our development strategy which forms the basis of our planning and policies. Thus, careful consideration should be given to argue and conclude a middle path that is best suited. A candidate having sound knowledge in the above domain can easily fetch marks ranging from 100–140.

The 2nd Essay Topic

• ‘Preparedness of our society for India’s global leadership role’, is something that can be anticipated as a topic preferred by all types of students, including the students of history, sociology, public administration, literature and philosophy. All the students have enough space to accommodate their ideas and reveal a newer dimension to it. Thus, this essay provides immense scope. A survey found that this essay is preferred by over 80% of the students as it helps them in identifying and connecting their studies and understanding of India. Moreover, the selection of this essay requires one to have a deep understanding of Indian society and its progress along with the vision of India as a global leader. Since the very ancient times, the prosperity, spirituality, well-being and welfare-based governance of India made it renowned worldwide as the ‘World guru’ or the ‘World leader’. The societal structure of India, with more than 5000-year old recorded history, can be divided into ancient, medieval, modern and contemporary periods. During all these periods, the Indian society witnessed development in three dimensions, namely, (1) spiritual, (2)  psychic or attitudinal and (3)  physical. Physically, a developed society is known to be that which fulfils the basic amenities of its people, provides them a decent standard of life and empowers them with prosperity. The fast moving cars, aeroplanes, space shuttle, computers, machines, mobile and internet-based satellite communication, etc. facilitating the humankind nowadays reflects our physical growth in a good light. Nowadays, plenty of Nobel Prizes are won every year. Mentally, the viewpoint of young generation seems far better and coherent than that of older generations. Thus, in terms of mental aspects a significant leap is taken by the human society. The features of a spiritually advanced society are its openness, liberal thinking and universalistic aptitude that reflect highest degree of human rationality and scientific temper instead of superstition, bigotry and old conventions. In such a society, people have feelings of Brahmanhood within themselves, considering themselves part of a united family, and associate themselves with one universal God. The age-old values of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ and ‘sarvam khalvidam brahma’ etc. reflects the prevalence of such spiritual practices in ancient India.
• A society achieving a balanced state across all three dimensions can genuinely be considered a comprehensively developed society. Each developmental effort directed towards the physical and psychic dimensions carries a significant risk of also fostering negative consequences. For instance, while the development of high-speed vehicles at the physical level introduces the risk of severe accidents, advancements at the psychic level, exemplified by numerous Nobel Prizes, are accompanied by an increase in various mental disorders. In contemporary times, detrimental tendencies like frustrations, anxieties, and suicide attempts have surged significantly. It is evident that both physical and psychic development entail potential negative outcomes. In contrast, spiritual development stands apart, devoid of any associated negativity. Consequently, these three dimensions are intricately interconnected, requiring harmonious integration to truly embody the essence of a developed society.
• Since the ancient times, Indian society is said to practice spirituality that was followed with a strong foundation even in the medieval time. Refined with higher standards of values, ethics and morality, the social consciousness was characterised with confidence. People believed in themselves and psychically the society was strong. The people were able to meet their needs and requirements and physically too the society had abundant wealth to take care of its people. The living standard of people was remarkably good and they were satisfied with it. 
• The medieval period in Indian society during the period of Delhi Sultanate and the Mughals witnessed a little deterioration in the physical well-being of its people, but overall the society was able to manage the intricate balance amongst the three levels. 
• However, significant harm was inflicted upon the interests of the people in India and its societal structure during the modern period, particularly with the European invasion leading to British rule and colonization. This harm occurred on two levels—physically and psychically. Physically, the British implemented the  'Drain of Wealth'  policy, directing their efforts to exploit, extract, and export Indian wealth to England. In pursuit of their self-interests, they ruthlessly exploited the fundamental structures of the Indian economy, trade, commerce, and the occupations of its people, disregarding the severe long-term consequences that ensued from their reckless actions. Psychically, the British also managed to damage the mindset of the society significantly. Their actions eroded the faith and belief of Indians in their own capabilities. This inflicted a notable loss on Indian society, and the recovery and revitalization of the society require considerable time.
• Hence, the contemporary Indian society is comprised of people who underwent physical and psychic exploitation for over two and half centuries. However, even the alien intrusions could not destabilise them from spirituality. Hence, during all these periods of crisis the base of Indian society in the form of spirituality remained intact. 
• Post-independence, a strong foundation laid by the visionary leadership of Pandit Nehru, Mahatma Gandhi, Ballabh Patel, Dr. Ambedkar, etc. led to the present form of governance based on modern principles of democracy, socialism and secularism. Our constitution very well incorporates all these principles and enjoys the privilege of being one of the largest written constitutions in the world. 
• The solid foundations laid by our constitution have resulted in providing a strong base to the Indian society to become self-reliant in food grain production and most of its basic needs. In the present scenario, the country is widely recognised as one of the fastest growing economy in the world and emerging as a leader on many fronts. Even the U. S. President Obama acknowledged that ‘When India speaks, the World listens’. 
• In the 1960s, followed by a series of famines, when our late Prime Minister Smt. Indira Gandhi went to USA to seek help for food grains and other economic needs, she was made to wait half an hour in the presidential corridor to meet the U. S. President. In the present scenario, the situation has changed to such a level that the U. S. President Mr. Obama came to India and sought employments for its people. Today, India is playing a leadership role in international organisations including ASEAN, SAARC, G-20, BASIC, IBSA, etc. Moreover, India has been given an observer status in other organisations like G-8, SCO, EU, etc. which portrays the significant role India plays, its participation and the respect gained by it in the International Forums. India adopted the harmonious and peaceful coexistence principles of Non- Aligned Movement (NAM) based on India’s ancient value system of ‘Sarva Jan Hitaya Cha’ and ‘Vashudhaiv Kutumbakam’. It evolved as a result of Indian societal structure and has provided an alternative to the polarised world that followed immature and sentimental principles of polarisation during the second World War. India played a significant role in the formation of the UN even before it achieved independence. Many of the UN institutions are based on Indian’s age-old principles of humanism and universalism of which India is also the founding member. 
• Thus, physically India is able to revive itself within a very short span of time after independence. Presently, India has registered itself as the second fastest growing economy of the world. This has led to a boost in the psychological status of Indian people reflecting growing social awareness and confidence in the society. Nowadays, Indians have regained the sense of belief and pride in being an Indian. This reflects a great sign of improvement the Indian society is going through.
• The economic development, prosperity of the people and international position held by its people show the readiness of Indian society for betterment in all spheres of life. The living standard of Indian society has improved in all these fronts. Few social evils such as poverty, unemployment, mass scale hunger, malnourishment, ignorance, illiteracy, and other forms of iniquities that still exist in the present society can be eliminated in future with good development figures, successful functioning democracy, education and good governance. All these developments indicate that India would be able to regain its status of global leader in the time to come. As it is the only country with a social set-up having a harmonious balance in all the three aforementioned fundamental pillars that forms the basis of an ideal society. 
• A relatively good essay could be turned out by elaborating few of these aspects combined with logical arguments. This essay becomes an obvious choice as a student well versed in these basic aspects of society could get marks in the range of 100 to 145.

The Third Essay Topic

• ‘From traditional Indian Philanthropy to the Gates-Buffett model —a natural progress or a paradigm shift?’ is more of a philosophical tone. To attempt this essay one should have adequate knowledge of the differences that lie in the Indian practice of ‘paropkara’ and the contemporary western practice of ‘philanthropy’. Thereafter, one is assumed to provide comments on whether philanthropy in practice today is a natural progress or a Paradigm shift? 
• Before taking a position, the essayist should elaborate upon these two practices then should logically conclude the topic. The concept of philanthropy in India was called as ‘Paropkara’, that is, ‘Par’ + ‘Upkara’ which means ‘service to others’. Therefore, the philanthropy was considered as service or duty to perform whether one had enough wealth or little wealth. The people distributing their money or wealth would consider themselves indebted to person receiving their money and never viewed themselves obliging to the needy or the beneficiary. Raja Harishchandra, Bharathari, Raja Bhoja, Ashoka, etc. are some examples of the kings who testify this system of philanthropy that was prevalent in India since the time immemorial. 
• In present times, philanthropy in practice is a western adaptation . Influenced by this system, most of the Indian wealthy people, who have become billionaire very recently, are following the western philanthropists, like Bill, Warren Buffett and Milinda Gates, etc. The widespread fame and recognition that comes with this practice motivates these multi billionaires. Thus, most of the Indian philanthropists in their eagerness to transform themselves as a modern western man get drawn into the gaudy power of westernisation and get distracted between the two. 
• Modernisation does not mean westernisation and is instead a mindset based on the principles of democracy, socialism, equality, secularism and freedom and universalism. Hence, the practice of philanthropy nowadays by Indians who recently turned rich cannot be called as a natural development but a paradigm shift. 
• Now, enough light has been thrown on core of the issues and one can always make use of his/her vision and understanding to further elaborate on the topic. One can put relevant facts and figures in a meaningful way to make it more substantive. Hence, this essay requires more of a philosophical knowledge than factual knowledge or something learnt from books. A well-written essay on this topic can fetch marks in the range of 100–140. 
• Thus, we can see that main examination nowadays has become very competitive similar to the situations that we undergo in our daily walk of life in the present scenario . A comprehensive understanding of Indian society, its culture, people, practices and philosophies is a must for an individual who wants to compete in the exam. Writing on some of these topics or on similar issues and getting oneself evaluated is the best way to prepare for essay writing. The importance of essays should not be taken lightly as these could be decisive in changing the rank and portfolio of a candidate and making it to the final list of successful candidates.

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UPSC Mains Exam Analysis: The UPSC Mains Exam poses a distinctive challenge for candidates, requiring them to cultivate both analytical skills To check previous year's UPSC Mains Exam question papers Analysis check out this article.

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UPSC Mains Analysis: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) administered the UPSC IAS Prelims examination on the 28th of May 2023. This examination presented a challenge as the General Studies Paper 1 and Paper 2 ranged from moderate to difficult in terms of difficulty level. The Prelims General Studies Paper 1 took place between 9:30 AM and 11:30 AM, while the CSAT occurred from 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM. UPSC mains examination 2023 is going to take place from 15th September 2023. To provide a comprehensive insight into the examination, we offer an analysis of the UPSC IAS mains exam. This analysis is especially beneficial for UPSC Civil Services aspirants, as it provides valuable information on the exam’s difficulty level and the expected number of good attempts. Furthermore, candidates can benefit from reviewing previous years’ UPSC mains Exam Analyses to discern patterns and trends.

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The UPSC Mains examination comprises a series of papers, each with its unique significance and structure. Let’s delve into the key takeaways and insights from the UPSC Mains 2023 exam analysis.

UPSC Mains Exam Pattern 2023

The UPSC Mains Exam Pattern encompasses nine papers, with two qualifying papers – Language Paper (Paper A) and English Paper (Paper B). These qualifying papers are worth 300 marks each but do not influence the final ranking. The remaining seven papers, including Essay and General Studies papers, are evaluated for merit and contribute significantly to the candidate’s position in the merit list.

UPSC Mains Qualifying Papers 2023

Candidates must secure a minimum of 25% (75 marks) in Paper A (an Indian language) and Paper B (English) to qualify. These papers are designed to test the candidate’s language proficiency and are essential for progressing to the merit-based papers.

UPSC Mains Merit-Based Papers 2023

The seven merit-based papers in the UPSC Mains exam are meant to enhance a candidate’s score and determine their ranking in the merit list. Candidates can choose to answer these papers in either English or one of the eight scheduled languages, providing flexibility.

UPSC Mains Optional Subject 2023

Candidates must select one subject from a given list for Paper VI and Paper VII as their optional subject. These papers significantly contribute to their final scores and rankings.

To succeed, candidates must not only secure the minimum qualifying marks in Paper A and Paper B but also perform exceptionally well in the remaining seven papers to enhance their overall scores.

Subject-Wise Weightage in UPSC Mains Exam Analysis 2023

In UPSC Mains 2023, candidates must appear for nine papers, including qualifying and merit-based papers. The following is an overview of the subject-wise analysis:

• Paper A: Indian Language (Qualifying): This paper assesses the candidate’s proficiency in their selected Indian language. It is a qualifying paper, and the marks obtained here do not contribute to the final merit list.
• Paper B: English (Qualifying): This paper evaluates the candidate’s command of the English language. It is a qualifying paper, and the marks obtained here are not factored into the final merit list.
• Paper I: Essay This paper gauges the candidate’s ability to articulate their ideas clearly and concisely. It carries a weightage of 250 marks.
• Paper II: General Studies I This paper assesses the candidate’s knowledge of Indian Heritage and Culture, World History, and Society. It holds a weightage of 250 marks.
• Paper III: General Studies II This paper evaluates the candidate’s understanding of the Indian Constitution, Governance, Social Justice, and International Relations. It is allotted 250 marks.
• Paper IV: General Studies III This paper tests the candidate’s knowledge in Technology, Economic Development, Biodiversity, Environment, Security, and Disaster Management. It carries a weightage of 250 marks.
• Paper V: General Studies IV This paper examines the candidate’s grasp of Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude. It is worth 250 marks.
• Paper VI: Optional Subject Paper I This paper assesses the candidate’s proficiency in their chosen optional subject. It contributes 250 marks to the overall score.
• Paper VII: Optional Subject Paper II This paper evaluates the candidate’s understanding of their selected optional subject. It carries a weightage of 250 marks.

Analysis of UPSC Mains Question Papers

The UPSC Mains Exam Analysis is derived from the study of previous question papers and feedback from candidates who have faced the UPSC Mains examination. While the specific question patterns may vary, this analysis provides a solid understanding of the general trends, types of questions, and difficulty levels that candidates can expect. It guides aspirants in planning their preparation strategies accordingly.

Topic-Wise UPSC Mains Exam Analysis

For a comprehensive understanding of the exam, we provide access to topic-wise analysis PDFs for various papers, aiding candidates in their preparation:

• Topic-Wise Paper 1 Questions of UPSC Mains
• Topic-Wise Paper 2 Questions of UPSC Mains
• Topic-Wise GS 1 Questions of UPSC Mains
• Topic-Wise GS 2 Questions of UPSC Mains
• Topic-Wise GS 3 Questions of UPSC Mains
• Topic-Wise GS 4 Questions of UPSC Mains
• Topic-Wise Optional Paper 1 Questions of UPSC Mains
• Topic-Wise Optional Paper 2 Questions of UPSC Mains

UPSC Mains Exam Analysis 2022

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducted the IAS Mains Exam in 2022, setting the stage for the evaluation of aspiring civil servants. The Mains Exam is a critical phase in the Civil Services Examination, comprising multiple papers that assess a candidate’s knowledge and analytical abilities. In this analysis, we delve into the details of Paper 1 and Paper 2 of the UPSC CSE IAS Mains Exam 2022, offering insights into the questions and difficulty levels.

UPSC CSE IAS Mains Exam 2022 Analysis

The UPSC Mains Exam commenced on September 16, 2022, and was conducted in two shifts, forenoon and afternoon, across various test centers in the country. This examination comprises nine papers held on different dates: September 16, 17, 18, 24, and 25, 2022. Candidates who cleared the preliminary exam were eligible to appear for the Mains Exam. Below is the schedule of the UPSC Mains Examination 2022:

• Paper-I: Essay
• Paper-II: General Studies-I
• Paper-III: General Studies-II
• Paper-IV: General Studies-III
• Paper-V: General Studies-IV
• Paper-A: Indian Language
• Paper-B: English
• Paper-VI: Optional Subject-Paper-1
• Paper-VII: Optional Subject-Paper-2

As of now, Paper 1 (Essay) and Paper 2 (General Studies-I) have been conducted. Let’s proceed with an analysis of these papers, including the difficulty level and questions asked.

General Studies Paper-I (GS Paper 1) – Morning Shift, September 17, 2022

The morning shift of GS Paper 1 was successfully conducted, and candidates found the difficulty level to be moderate. The paper consisted of 20 questions, carrying a total of 250 marks. These questions were further divided into two categories: 10 questions worth 10 marks each (to be answered in 150 words) and 10 questions worth 15 marks each (to be answered in 250 words).

Notably, a substantial portion of the paper was dedicated to questions related to Indian Society, accounting for over 25% of the total questions. Other categories covered in the paper included Art and Culture, Modern History, World History, Physical Geography, Indian Geography, Current Affairs, and World Geography.

The weightage of different categories in GS Paper 1 is as follows:

• Art & Culture: 40 marks for 3 questions
• Indian Society: 60 marks for 5 questions
• Modern History: 20 marks for 2 questions
• World History: 15 marks for 1 question
• Physical Geography: 55 marks for 4 questions
• Indian Geography: 30 marks for 3 questions
• Current Affairs and World Geography: 30 marks for 2 questions

General Studies Paper-II (GS Paper 2) – Morning Shift, September 17, 2022

GS Paper 2 was conducted in the morning shift on the same day. According to candidates’ feedback, the level of difficulty for this paper ranged from moderate to difficult. This paper featured a dominant focus on Geography-related questions. Other sections covered included History, Art and Culture, Modern History, and Indian Society.

Specifically, the paper included around 3 to 4 questions from the History section, 3 questions each from Art and Culture and Modern History, and questions related to Secularism within the Indian Society category. Those with a strong grasp of Geography found it easier to tackle a significant portion of the paper.

UPSC Mains Exam Analysis 2021

UPSC Mains 2021 was a testament to the rigorous standards set by the UPSC in selecting the best candidates for civil service positions. Aspirants faced a multitude of challenges but were also presented with opportunities to showcase their adaptability, knowledge, and writing skills. This analysis serves as a valuable reference for future UPSC Mains aspirants, offering insights into the dynamic nature of the examination and emphasizing the importance of holistic preparation. Ultimately, UPSC Mains 2021 reaffirms that success in this esteemed examination requires not only hard work but also the ability to navigate the evolving landscape of India’s civil services.

Key Highlights of UPSC Mains Exam 2021 Analysis

• Challenging General Studies Papers : The General Studies papers in UPSC Mains 2021 were notably demanding, testing candidates’ knowledge across a wide range of subjects. The diversity of topics and the depth of analysis required were remarkable.
• Changing Trends in Essay Paper : The Essay paper continued to evolve, emphasizing contemporary and thought-provoking topics. Candidates needed to exhibit not only strong writing skills but also the ability to construct well-structured arguments.
• Optional Subjects : The optional subject choices of candidates varied widely, but regardless of the choice, the expectation of in-depth subject knowledge remained constant. A comprehensive understanding of the chosen subject was crucial.
• Current Affairs Integration : Current affairs played a vital role across various papers, emphasizing the importance of staying updated with contemporary events and their implications.

UPSC Mains Exam Analysis 2021 Challenges Faced by Aspirants

• Time Management : Managing time effectively in a lengthy and exhaustive examination like UPSC Mains was a common challenge. Candidates had to allocate time judiciously to answer all questions adequately.
• Interdisciplinary Approach : Many questions required an interdisciplinary approach, demanding candidates to connect concepts and knowledge from different subjects, which was a demanding task.
• Subject Diversity : With a wide array of subjects to study, candidates had to balance their preparation to ensure competence across all areas, including the optional subject.

UPSC Mains Exam Analysis 2021 Opportunities

• Adaptability : UPSC Mains 2021 highlighted the importance of adaptability in the face of evolving examination patterns. Successful candidates displayed the ability to adjust their strategies to suit the changing trends.
• Comprehensive Preparation : A holistic and comprehensive approach to studying was essential. Candidates who integrated current affairs, interdisciplinary knowledge, and a deep understanding of optional subjects had an advantage.
• Writing Skills : Effective communication through writing was a key takeaway. Those who could articulate their thoughts clearly and concisely had a distinct edge.

UPSC Mains Exam Analysis FAQs

What is upsc civil services exam 2023 (mains), what is upsc mains exam analysis, how many candidates are allowed to appear for upsc mains 2022.

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UPSC Essay Topics - Important Essay Topics for UPSC Mains 2023

By vajiram & ravi.

Essay Course for UPSC

UPSC CSE Mains 2023 Essay Question Paper

UPSC Mains Optional Test Series

Mentorship Program for UPSC 2024

Understanding UPSC Essay Topics holds significant importance as it evaluates the candidate's ability to analyse, present arguments, and communicate effectively. In this article, we will explore the diverse range of UPSC essay topics, their significance, and essential tips to excel in this section. Get ready to enhance your writing and analytical skills and make a strong impression on the evaluators with well-crafted essays.

UPSC Essay Paper

The Essay paper in the UPSC Mains examination requires candidates to write multiple essays , each on a different topic, chosen from a given list of options. The essay topics for UPSC cover a wide range of issues, including social, economic, political, cultural, and philosophical aspects, both national and international.

The essay paper holds significant weightage in the UPSC Mains examination, contributing 250 marks out of the total 1750 marks . Scoring well in this section can have a considerable impact on the overall ranking and selection for the coveted civil services.

Weekly UPSC Essay Topics By Vajiram & Ravi

The UPSC Essay Paper is an opportunity for candidates to demonstrate their proficiency in expressing ideas and analysing complex issues. Vajiram & Ravi Pensive-Weekly Essay Writing Programme provides you with two Essay Topics every Saturday based on the previous year's question papers and the changing trends analysis. You can submit your Essay for peer evaluation on vajiramandravi.com. This will help you nourish your writing skills, give you clarity of thought, and build the capacity to express opinions in a logical and coherent manner.

Important Essay Topics for UPSC 2023

The purpose of the essay paper is to assess the candidate's ability to critically analyse a topic, present well-structured arguments, and communicate their ideas effectively. It also evaluates their knowledge of various issues, their clarity of thought, and their capacity to express opinions in a logical and coherent manner.

Some of the Important Essay Topics to prepare for the UPSC Mains Examination 2023 are:

• Gender Equality
• Environment/Urbanization
• Economic Growth
• Federalism/Decentralization
• Agriculture
• Economics 

UPSC Essay Topics on Philosophy

Every year, UPSC typically provides you with two or more essay topics centred around philosophical thoughts, Indian philosophical schools, or quotes from notable personalities. To effectively address these philosophical topics, you should refer to Philosophy Books to gain a foundational understanding. Here is a list of UPSC Essay Topics on Philosophy :

• Everything comes to him, who hustles while he waits.
• We are always blind as we want to be.
• You cannot step twice in the same river.
• A disciplined mind brings happiness.
• The price of Greatness is Responsibility.
• People would rather Believe than Know.
• Mind - A beautiful Servant? Or a dangerous Master?

UPSC Essay Topics on Art and Culture

The UPSC Essay Topics related to Indian society, art, and culture cover a wide range of subjects, offering great diversity. To gain knowledge about the static content on these topics, you should rely on fundamental books on society, as recommended for the exam. Here is a list of UPSC Essay Topics on Indian Art and Culture :

• Culture changes with economic development.
• Culture is what we are, Civilization is what we have.
• Social reform is a myth if places of worship are open only to all castes and not to all genders.
• Impact of Globalization on Indian Art and Culture.
• Caste System - India’s Enduring Curse.
• Godmen - A Threat to Indian Art and Culture?

UPSC Essay Topics on Science and Technology

UPSC essay topics on Science and Technology can largely be addressed through current affairs. You may also benefit from consulting a Science and Technology Book for UPSC to compose a comprehensive and well-rounded essay. Here are some UPSC Essay Topics on Science and Technology:

• Deglobalisation is good for the world.
• Science is organised Knowledge. Wisdom is Organised life.
• Technology is a Weapon against Poverty.
• Prioritising Education Technology for Global Growth.
• Technology is the silent factor in International Relations.
• Scientific and Technological Progress cannot be equated with Human Progress.

UPSC Essay Topics on Education

Education stands as one of the preferred UPSC Essay Topics, with an essay related to this subject often appearing in the paper each year. To tackle this topic effectively, you should stay abreast of Current Affairs , incorporating significant changes and advancements in the field. Let's explore some of the Essay topics for UPSC centred around education:

• Self Education is a lifelong curiosity.
• Education Breeds Peace.
• Education is a progressive discovery of our own ignorance.
• Education must also train one for quick, resolute and effective thinking.
• Schooling is not Education.

UPSC Essay Topics on Polity and Governance

To comprehensively address Polity and Governance topics, you should acquire fundamental knowledge from Polity Books for UPSC and Current Affairs. These resources offer static information about relevant issues and their historical context, which proves valuable while writing UPSC Essay Topics on Polity. Here are some Essay Topics on Polity and Governance:

• The Role of Politics in Development.
• Should Youth in India Consider Politics as a Career?
• Art, Freedom and Creativity will change society faster than politics.
• The politics of Identity is the Politics of the Weak.
• People should not be afraid of their Government. The Government should be afraid of its people.
• Government Surveillance - Good or Bad?

UPSC Essay Topics on Economy

Essays concerning economic growth are frequently included in the Essay Paper. To tackle these topics effectively, you should refer to Economy Notes for UPSC to gain a comprehensive understanding. Once the fundamentals are grasped, you can enhance their essays by incorporating examples, data, and statistics to create a multidimensional perspective. Here is a list of UPSC Essay Topics on Economy:

• We don't have to sacrifice a Strong Economy for a Healthy Environment.
• India, a $5 trillion Economy - Dream or Reality?
• Digital Economy: A leveller or a source of Economic Inequality?
• Innovation is the key determinant of social welfare and economic growth.
• Labour Reforms in India and its Role in Economic Growth.

UPSC Essay Topics on Social Issues

Social issues are a significant aspect of the UPSC essay paper, reflecting the candidates' understanding of societal challenges and their ability to propose viable solutions. These essays provide a platform for candidates to analyse, critique, and suggest measures for pressing social concerns. Topics related to social issues in the UPSC Essay paper may include:

• Inclusivity and Plurality are the hallmarks of a Peaceful Society.
• A Gender-sensitive Indian Society is a prerequisite for Women and Child Empowerment.
• The weaker sections of Indian Society - are their Rights and Access to Justice getting Better?

Previous Year UPSC Essay Topics

Practising previous year's essay topics will help you become familiar with the UPSC exam pattern , word limit, and the types of essay questions frequently asked in the Mains Examination. Analysing past essay topics will also allow you to identify recurring themes and trends, enabling you to prioritise their preparation accordingly. Regular practice with past essay topics will instil confidence in you, helping you feel more comfortable and prepared for the actual exam.

• Forests are the best case studies for economic excellence.
• Poets are the unacknowledged legislators of the world.
• History is a series of victories won by the scientific man over the romantic man.
• A ship in the harbour is safe, but that is not what a ship is for.
• The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining.
• A smile is the chosen vehicle for all ambiguities.
• Just because you have a choice, it does not mean that any of them has to be right.

Tips to Excel in UPSC Essay Paper

• Understand the Topics: Thoroughly comprehend the essay topics, including the keywords and instructions. Choose a topic that aligns with your strengths and interests.
• Plan and Structure: Devote some time to plan your essay. Create an outline and organise your thoughts in a structured manner, with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion.
• Be Objective: Present balanced arguments and avoid a biased or one-sided approach. Consider multiple perspectives and present a holistic view.
• Provide Examples and Evidence: Support your arguments with relevant examples, data, quotes and evidence to strengthen your essay.
• Maintain Clarity: Write in a clear and concise manner. Use simple language and avoid jargon or overly complex vocabulary.
• Practice Regularly: Regular practice is essential to improve Essay writing skills. Write essays on diverse topics to enhance your versatility.
• Time Management: Allocate appropriate time for planning, writing, and revising each essay to manage time effectively during the examination.
• Revise and Edit: Review your essays for coherence, grammar, and structure. Make necessary edits to refine your work.

FAQs on UPSC Essay Topics

What are the important UPSC Essay Topics?

Here is a list of UPSC Essay Topics asked in Mains Examination previously:

• Culture is what we are, civilization is what we have.
• Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.
• What is research but a blind date with knowledge?
• Best for an individual is not necessarily best for society.
• Wisdom finds truth.
• Ships don’t sink because of water around them, ships sink because of water that gets into them.
• Patriarchy is the least noticed yet the most significant structure of social inequality.
• Technology as the silent factor in international relations.

How do I Prepare for the UPSC Essay?

To prepare for the UPSC essay, focus on understanding the essay syllabus and past topics to identify recurring themes. Regularly practise writing essays on various topics to improve your writing skills and time management. Structure your essays with a clear introduction, main body, and conclusion.

Which is the best source to practise UPSC Essay Topics?

The best sources to prepare Essay for UPSC include official UPSC materials, newspapers, and magazines like The Hindu, Yojana , and Kurukshetra for current affairs, standard books on diverse subjects, government reports and publications, online platforms like PIB and PRS India, UPSC previous year papers for understanding the exam pattern, and regular practice of essay writing on various topics.

© 2024 Vajiram & Ravi. All rights reserved

UPSC Analysis 2023, Prelims GS Paper 1 and CSAT

Candidates can review the in-depth UPCS Prelims Exam 2023 Analysis, which analyses the difficulty level of the exam by subject, the questions that were asked below for analysing the exam pattern

Table of Contents

UPSC Prelims Analysis 2023

UPSC Analysis 2023 : On the 28th of May 2023, the UPSC Prelims examination has conducted by UPSC. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive UPSC Prelims 2023 Analysis, offering insights into its pattern, difficulty level, subject-wise breakdown, expected cut-off, successful attempts, and more. According to various sources, the UPSC IAS Prelims 2023 exam is a bit tougher than it was last year. Overall, the prelims exam’s difficulty level ranged from Moderate to Difficult.

Candidates who took the exam can review the UPSC Prelims Analysis 2023 to gain insight into this year’s UPSC Exam. General Studies Paper 1 was moderate to difficult and GS Paper 2 CSAT was very lengthy. This year UPSC has not only given a good amount of Geography/Environment related questions in GS Paper 1 but also the passages in the CSAT paper.

With the help of the detailed UPSC Prelims Exam 2023 Analysis, Candidates may identify more about the paper’s difficulty level, the number of questions in each section, successful attempts, the nature of the questions, etc. All of these factors will eventually determine the UPSC Prelims Expected Cut Off 2023  and also determine the chances of selection of candidates in the UPSC Prelims 2023 Exam.

Download UPSC Prelims Question Paper 2023

UPSC Prelims Exam 2023 Analysis

The UPSC CSE Prelims exam is a critical milestone for aspiring civil servants, testing their knowledge, aptitude, and analytical skills. Candidates must also be aware of the portion from which the majority of the questions will be drawn. The topic-wise question weightage for each subject is listed below.

UPSC Prelims Exam 2023 GS Paper I

Candidates can check the table mentioned below that provides the topic-wise weightage of the question asked in the All Posts UPSC Prelims Exam 2023 Paper I.

Check UPSC Prelims Answer Key 2023

UPSC Prelims 2023 GS 1 Analysis Subject-wise

Here candidates can check the difficulty level of the UPSC Prelims Exam 2023 GS Paper I:

UPSC Prelims 2023 CSAT Analysis Topic-wise

Candidates can check the table mentioned below that provides the topic-wise weightage of the question asked in the UPSC Prelims Exam 2023 GS Paper II (CSAT).

UPSC Prelims Analysis 2023 GS Paper 1 Question-wise

Here candidates can check UPSC Prelims Analysis 2023 GS Paper 1 Question-wise:

UPSC Prelims Exam 2022 Paper Analysis

For a comparative and detailed analysis, candidates can also check the past two previous year’s trends and levels of the UPSC Exam 2022.

UPSC Prelims Exam 2022 GS Paper I

A total of 100 general studies questions are included in Paper I. Below is a description of the Paper I analysis in depth.

UPSC Prelims Exam 2022 GS Paper II

A total of 80 general studies questions are included in Paper II. Below is a description of the Paper II analysis in depth.

UPSC Prelims Exam 2021 Paper Analysis

Here candidates can analyse the level of the UPSC Prelims Exam in the year 2021.

UPSC Prelims Exam 2021 GS Paper I

Upsc prelims exam 2021 gs paper ii.

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UPSC CSE Prelims Exam 2023 Analysis FAQs

What is the qualifying marks for upsc prelims 2023.

For general category OBC its between 95 to 105 marks, ST and SC candidates have to secure 75 marks and PH category candidates have to score 60 marks. It varies

What is the pass mark for IAS?

Union Public Service Commission arrives at the cutoff for each category after the exam. The candidate needs to score more marks than their category cutoff to get selected.

Is IAS exam difficult to pass?

Yes, IAS exam is one of the toughest exam conducted by UPSC. It is the enormity of its syllabus which makes it difficult.

How to download question papers of IAS 2023?

Candidates will download IAS question papers 2023 from the official website after the conclusion of exam.

What is the selection process of IAS 2023?

UPSC IAS selection process 2023 comprises prelim exam, mains exam and personal interview.

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EDITORIAL ANALYSIS : The climate crisis is not gender neutral

Source: The Hindu

• Prelims: Current events of international importance, G20, UNDP, NFHS, Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW), PM 2.5, SHGs, UNFPA, SDG, ILO etc.
• Mains GS Paper II & III: Bilateral, regional and global grouping and agreements involving India or affecting India’s interests.

ARTICLE HIGHLIGHTS

• According to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), women and children are 14 times more likely than men to die in a disaster.
• The Supreme Court ruled that people have a right to be free from the adverse effects of climate change under Articles 14 (right to equality) and 21 (right to life).

INSIGHTS ON THE ISSUE

Impact of climate change on women:

• Climate-driven crop yield reductions increase food insecurity, adversely impacting poor households that already suffer higher nutritional deficiencies.
• Within small and marginal landholding households, men face social stigma due to unpaid loans (leading to migration, emotional distress, and sometimes even suicide),
• Women experience higher domestic work burdens, worse health, and greater intimate partner violence.
• more underweight
• experienced more intimate partner violence
• higher prevalence of girl marriages.
• It impacts their mental health and emotional well-being.

Gender-based violence

●      a report from the council on energy, environment and water (ceew) in 2021 f ound that 75% of indian districts are vulnerable to hydromet disasters (floods, droughts and cyclones)., ○      nfhs 5 data showed that over half of women and children living in these districts were at risk., ●      studies are increasingly showing a direct correlation between these natural disasters and gender-based violence against women., ●      extreme weather events and subsequent changes in water cycle patterns severely impact access to safe drinking water, ○      which increases the drudgery and reduces time for productive work and health care of women and girls., ●      prolonged heat is particularly dangerous for pregnant women (increasing the risk of preterm birth and eclampsia), young children, and the elderly., ●      exposure to pollutants in the air (household and outdoor) a ffects women’s health, causing respiratory and cardiovascular disease, unborn child, ○      impairing its physical and cognitive growth., ●      emerging data from cohort studies in india s how that for every 10 micrograms per cubic meter increase in pm2.5, ○      the risk of lung cancer increases by 9%, ○      the risk of cardiovascular deaths on the same day by 3%, ○      stroke by 8%., ○      for dementia, t he risk increased by 4% for 2 micrograms inc rease in annual pm2.5..

Why does climate action need women?

• Climate action requires 100% of the population to achieve the Paris Agreement goal of limiting global temperature rise to 5° C.
• Empowering women: provided with the same access to resources as men, women increased their agricultural yields by 20% to 30%.
• Giving women and women collectives (Self-help Groups and Farmer Producer Organisations) the knowledge, tools and access to resources would encourage local solutions to emerge.
• Adaptation measures will necessarily be different in rural and urban areas as exposure to heat, air pollution and access to water and food will vary by context.

Best Practices for the effective involvement of women in climate change plans:

• In addition to enhancing community health outcomes, this lowers greenhouse gas emissions.
• These grids also lower greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution.
• In laboratories and research departments all over Africa, female scientists are bridging gender gaps by contributing first-hand knowledge of local conditions and agriculture.
• Gender and Climate Change Development Programme(Programme in South Asia): which aims to increase women’s influence in policy making by providing them with a stronger voice.
• In India, the Self-Employed Women’s Association (SEWA) teaches women farmers how to respond to shifting climate patterns to support themselves better financially.

Way Forward

• Reduce the impact of prolonged heat on priority groups (outdoor workers, pregnant women, infants and young children and the elderly).
• Urban local bodies, municipal corporations and district authorities in all vulnerable districts need to have a plan and provide training and resources to key implementers.
• Heat wave warnings (based on local temperature plus humidity), change of timings for outdoor work and schools, cooling rooms in health facilities, public drinking water facilities, and immediate treatment of those with heat stroke will minimize deaths.
• The Mahila Housing Trust in Udaipur showed that painting the roofs of low-income houses with reflective white paint reduced indoor temperatures by 3° C to 4° C and improved quality of life.
• Work by the M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation in a few districts of Tamil Nadu s howed that using geographic information systems
• panchayat could map key water sources, i dentify vulnerabilities and climate hazards and develop a local plan to improve water access by directing government schemes and resources.
• Convergence of sectors and services and prioritization of actions can happen most effectively at the village or panchayat levels.
• Devolution of powers and finances and investing i n building the capacity of panchayat and SHG members can be India’s way of demonstrating how to build resilience in a community-led and participatory way.
• A gender lens needs to be applied to all State-action plan s on climate change.
• A review of 28 SAPCCs showed a lack of transformative approaches, with only a few recognising women as agents of change.
• To ensure a comprehensive and equitable approach to climate adaptation.

QUESTION FOR PRACTICE

What is an Integrated Farming System ? How is it helpful to small and marginal farmers in India?(UPSC 2022) (200 WORDS, 10 MARKS)

Editorial Analysis – 10 April 2024

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UPSC CMS 2024 notification released; 8000+ posts on offer

Eligible and interested candidates can apply for the exam at upsconline.nic.in till april 30 upto 6.00 pm..

Union Public Service Commission ( UPSC ) has today, April 10, released the official notification for the Combined Medical Services Examination or CMS 2024 on the official website upsc.gov.in . Eligible and interested candidates can apply for the exam at upsconline.nic.in till April 30 upto 6.00 PM. The application correction/edit window will be open from May 1 to 7.

The exam will be conducted to recruit 827 medical officers in different government departments.

Vacancy details

Medical Officers Grade in General Duty Medical Officers Sub-cadre of Central Health Service- 163

Category-II

(i) Assistant Divisional Medical Officer in the Railways - 450

(ii) General Duty Medical Officer in New Delhi Municipal Council - 14

(iii) General Duty Medical Officer Gr-II in Municipal Corporation of Delhi - 200

Here’s UPSC CMS notification 2024.

Eligibility Criteria

Age Limit: A candidate for this examination must not have attained the age of 32 years as on August 1, 2024. However, for Medical Officers Grade in General Duty Medical Officers Sub-cadre of Central Health Services, the upper age limit must not exceed 35 (thirty-five years) on the aforesaid cut-off date. Upper age relaxed for candidates from reserved category.

Educational Qualification: For admission to the examination a candidate should have passed the written and practical parts of the final M.B.B.S. Examination.

Selection scheme

The UPSC CMS 2024 exam will consist of two phases: i) Written exam (500 marks) in two Papers, each Paper carrying a maximum of 250 marks. Each Paper will be two hours in duration. ii) Personality Test (100 Marks) of the candidates who qualify on the results of the written examination.

Application Fee

The applicants are required to pay the fee of Rs 200, except female/SC/ST/PwBD candidates who are exempted from payment of fee.

Steps to apply for UPSC CMS 2024

Visit the official website upsconline.nic.in

Go to ‘OTR for examinations of UPSC and online application’ and click on apply link

Fill Part 1 registration form, pay fee, upload documents

Select exam centre and submit form

Download form and take a printout for future reference

For more details, candidates are advised to visit the official website here .

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10 Apr 2024: The Hindu Analysis

UPSC Current Affairs Preparation: The Hindu Analysis

Watch expert analysis of ‘The Hindu’ dated 10 Apr 2024. Important news and views to boost your IAS exam preparation. Watch previous The Hindu Video Analysis .   

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