The IAS exam syllabus is vast and comprehensive, covering a wide range of subjects across Prelims and Mains.
Here's a detailed breakdown of the syllabus for both stages:
1. Preliminary Examination (Prelims) Syllabus
The Prelims exam consists of two papers: General Studies Paper I and CSAT Paper II.
General Studies Paper I (200 marks)
The syllabus covers a wide range of topics:
- Current Events of National and International Importance
- History of India and Indian National Movement
Ancient, Medieval, Modern History of India
Freedom Struggle, and important events, personalities, and issues related to it.
Geography of India and the World
- Physical geography (landforms, climate, resources, etc.)
- Social, economic, and cultural geography
- Geography of India: Rivers, Mountains, Resources, etc.
Indian Polity and Governance
- Constitution of India, Political System, Panchayati Raj, Local Government
- Parliament, Judiciary, and Governance
- Rights issues, amendments, and fundamental duties
Economic and Social Development
- Poverty, inclusion, social sector initiatives
- Sustainable development, economic policies
- Demographics, social programs
Environmental Ecology, Biodiversity, and Climate Change
- Environmental ecology and biodiversity
- Climate change and sustainable development
- Government initiatives for conservation and environmental protection
General Science
- Basics of physics, chemistry, biology, and technology
- Developments in science and technology in India and worldwide
CSAT Paper II (200 marks)
This paper is qualifying (you need to score at least 33%) and assesses the following:
- Comprehension
- Interpersonal Skills and Communication Skills
- Logical Reasoning and Analytical Ability
- Decision-making and Problem-solving
- Basic Numeracy (Mathematics up to class 10)
- English Language Comprehension Skills
2. Mains Examination Syllabus
The Mains exam consists of 9 papers, out of which some are qualifying, and others contribute to your final score. Here’s the detailed syllabus:
Paper 1: Essay (250 marks)
- Writing an essay on a specific topic. The topic will test your ability to present a coherent argument, with facts and logic.
- The essay could cover a variety of themes such as social issues, philosophical discussions, economic problems, political scenarios, or environmental concerns.
Paper 2: General Studies Paper I - Indian Heritage and Culture, History, and Geography of the World and Society (250 marks)
Indian Culture
- Art, Architecture, Literature, and Dance forms
- Indian Heritage and its Preservation
- Cultural diversity in India
Modern History of India
- Freedom struggle and national movements
- Major events, leaders, and movements in modern Indian history
Geography of India
- Physical features, climate, vegetation, and soil
- Resources, industries, and agriculture
- Environmental challenges and their impact on Indian geography
World Geography
- Physical geography of the world (oceans, continents, climate)
- Major geographical features, resources, and issues globally
Paper 3: General Studies Paper II - Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, and International Relations (250 marks)
Indian Constitution
- Historical context and development
- Fundamental Rights and Duties
- Directive Principles of State Policy
Governance and Polity
- Structure, functioning, and issues in Indian governance (Executive, Legislature, Judiciary)
- Role of various Constitutional bodies (Election Commission, UPSC, etc.)
Social Justice
- Welfare schemes, poverty alleviation, employment issues, and social empowerment
- Government initiatives for marginalized groups
International Relations
- India’s relations with neighboring countries
- Global organizations (UN, WTO, World Bank, etc.)
- Foreign policy and its challenges
Paper 4: General Studies Paper III - Technology, Economic Development, Bio-Diversity, Environment, Security, and Disaster Management (250 marks)
Technology
- Developments in science, technology, and innovation
- IT, Space Technology, Robotics, Nanotechnology, etc.
Economic Development
- Growth and development in India, inclusive growth, and challenges
- Budget, planning, agriculture, and industry-related issues
Bio-Diversity and Environment
- Biodiversity, conservation, and sustainable use of resources
- Environmental policies, climate change, and international agreements
Security and Disaster Management
- Internal and external security challenges
- National security policy, cyber security, disaster management
Paper 5: General Studies Paper IV - Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude (250 marks)
Ethics and Integrity
- Ethics in public administration, moral and ethical values in decision-making
- Ethical dilemmas in the real world
Aptitude
- Attitude, emotional intelligence, leadership, and public service
- Code of ethics, governance in practice
Case Studies
- Practical situations that test ethical reasoning and decision-making
Paper 6 & 7: Optional Subject Papers (500 marks total)
- You have to choose one optional subject from a list of 48 subjects. Each optional subject has two papers.
- Subjects are divided into groups, including humanities, science, engineering, and social sciences.
Examples of Optional Subjects: Anthropology, Geography, Sociology, History, Political Science, Public Administration, Economics, Medical Science, Law, etc.
- The papers test your depth of knowledge in the chosen subject, and it is important to prepare thoroughly.
Paper 8: Indian Language Paper (Qualifying)
- Language: You need to choose one of the Indian languages mentioned in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution.
- This paper tests your proficiency in reading and writing in the selected language.
- It is qualifying (must score 25% to pass), but the marks do not count towards the final ranking.
Paper 9: English Language Paper (Qualifying)
- The English language paper assesses your proficiency in the English language.
- It is qualifying (must score 25% to pass), and the marks do not count toward the final ranking.
3. Interview/Personality Test (275 marks)
- Purpose: To assess your personality, decision-making abilities, and suitability for administrative roles.
- It tests your general awareness, presence of mind, leadership qualities, and communication skills.
- The interview is conducted by a panel of experts and typically lasts 30-45 minutes.
Summary of the IAS Mains Exam Syllabus:
Paper No. Title Marks
Paper 1 Essay 250
Paper 2 General Studies Paper I (Indian Culture, History, Geography) 250
Paper 3 General Studies Paper II (Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, International Relations) 250
Paper 4 General Studies Paper III (Technology, Economic Development, Environment, Security, Disaster Management) 250
Paper 5 General Studies Paper IV (Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude) 250
Paper 6 & 7 Optional Subject Papers I & II 500
Paper 8 Indian Language Paper (Qualifying) 0
Paper 9 English Language Paper (Qualifying) 0
Interview Personality Test 275
Final Notes:
- Prelims serves as a screening test, while the Mains tests a candidate's depth of knowledge and analytical skills.
- The Interview assesses the candidate’s personality and suitability for administrative roles.
- To succeed, candidates need to stay updated on current affairs, have strong general knowledge, and develop a good understanding of their optional subject.
Given the vastness of the syllabus, focused preparation and time management are essential to clear the IAS exam.