UPSC CSE Prelims 2025 Special: Have last minute exam day strategy doubts — we have got answers
To help aspirants navigate this crucial phase, here is a comprehensive Prelims Day Strategy Guide, part of our Expert Talk series under UPSC Essentials by The Indian Express. In this edition, Rohit Pande, our expert, speaks to Manas Srivastava of The Indian Express, addressing the most common questions and mental roadblocks that aspirants face just before entering the exam hall.
About our Expert: Rohit Pande brings over a decade of experience in strategy and consulting to the world of CSE examinations. His team has helped many students clear the exam using scientific framework-driven mentorship. He keeps a keen eye on the evolving patterns of the UPSC IAS exam and the changing study habits of GenZ UPSC aspirants, enabling them with deep, actionable, and unrivaled insights.
Answer: Aim to attempt every question where you can confidently eliminate at least one option.
Ideally, attempt at least 85–90 questions. Often, even in the 10–15 you initially skip, you'll find you can eliminate at least one option on review. This pushes your attempt count higher.
If you're strong in reasoning and have sharp intuition, going beyond 95 attempts can work — provided your guesses are reasoned, not random.
Answer: If the paper throws a few surprises your way, take a deep breath — it's the same for everyone. Don't panic. Every question has a pattern and logic; your job is to crack it.
In recent years, some unexpected areas have shown up, such as sports questions (Olympics, Chess Olympiad, Laureus Awards, even the Cricket Test Championship), a whole bunch of 'only'-type statements (47 in 2023), and 18 assertion-reason questions. In 2024, they even included defence-related topics — military ranks, operations, and exercises.
So, expect a few curveballs. But remember, it's not about knowing everything — it's about staying calm, thinking smart, and playing the game well.
Answer: The golden rule for attempting questions in the Prelims is simple: attempt every question where you have confidently eliminated at least one option. Once you eliminate even a single choice, your odds improve significantly — with three options left, you now have a 1 in 3 chance, which statistically leads to a net-positive outcome.
If your logical reasoning and elimination skills are sharp, you can take calculated risks and attempt more questions. But if you are not confident in your techniques, it is smarter to play it safe. In that case, keeping your total attempts between 88 and 92 is often a sweet spot.
Answer: Do not go into the exam hall trying to judge the difficulty of the paper — that is not your job. Your focus should be on attempting every question where you can eliminate at least one option. That is your green light — stick to it no matter what.
Take a deep breath. The paper might feel tough — but it will feel that way for everyone. And remember, when the paper is tough, the cutoff usually drops. So stay calm, stay sharp, and don't let the pressure get to you.
Answer: We don't expect the CSAT paper to be as difficult as it was in 2023 — that year saw significant backlash, with even cases filed in the Supreme Court over the level of difficulty. As a result, the 2024 paper was more balanced. So, there is a good chance this year will follow that pattern. But just in case it doesn't, be mentally prepared. Stay well-rested — calmness and composure can make all the difference.
CSAT requires a solid strategy. That is why we emphasize mastering both Comprehension and Maths & Logical Reasoning. If one section turns out to be tough — like Maths in 2023 — shift gears and focus more on Comprehension and Logical Reasoning. If Comprehension feels hard, rely on the other areas. Flexibility is your best weapon.
Answer: Ever wondered why UPSC gives only 2 hours for this exam while most 100-question exams offer 3 hours? It is intentional — this exam tests decision-making, clarity under pressure, and your ability to act decisively.
If you have spent around a minute on a question, you have likely exhausted your reasoning and recall. Lingering longer rarely helps. Be decisive and move on.
There's no 'one-size-fits-all' time per question. Instead, manage your paper in time blocks. For example:
Time management is non-negotiable. If you are falling behind, speed up and make decisions faster. The goal isn't perfection — it is smart decision-making under pressure.
Answer: It is absolutely essential to approach the GS Paper with a multi-round strategy. The most effective method is the three-round approach:
Have a well-rehearsed strategy and stick to it on exam day. Avoid panic-based decisions or switching strategies mid-way.
Answer: Don't discuss the paper or search for answers online. It's tempting, but it does more harm than good — leading to panic, self-doubt, and lower performance in CSAT.
Instead, mentally draw a line under the GS paper — it's done. Now shift focus completely to CSAT.
During the break:
Answer:
Remember, D-day is all that counts. It's not just about your knowledge — it's about how well you execute under pressure. Stick to your strategy, stay calm, and trust your preparation.
Answer: Slow down just enough to read with intention. Start by carefully reading the question and all options. Don't rush, even if it seems familiar.
Underline or circle keywords — especially critical ones like: 'not,' 'only,' 'all,' 'some,' 'incorrect,' 'correct,' etc.
These completely change the question's meaning. If something feels off, reread it. A second reading often reveals hidden traps.
Answer: If you panic or blank out, don't change your strategy. Pause. Take a deep breath and tell yourself, 'I got this' (or any personal mantra you use). This helps calm your nerves and re-engages your brain.
Then return to the paper with a steady mind. Trust your preparation and stick to your process.
Subscribe to our UPSC newsletter and stay updated with the news cues from the past week.
The UPSC articles of Indian Express is now on Telegram. Join our Telegram channel- Indian Express UPSC Hub and stay updated with the latest Updates.
Manas Srivastava is currently working as Senior Copy Editor with The Indian Express (digital) and leads a unique initiative of IE - UPSC Essentials. He majorly writes on UPSC, other competitive exams and education-related projects. In the past, Manas has represented India at the G-20 Youth Summit in Mexico. He is a former member of the Youth Council, GOI. A two-time topper/gold medallist in History (both in graduation and post-graduation) from Delhi University, he has mentored and taught UPSC aspirants for more than four years. His diverse role in The Indian Express consists of writing, editing, anchoring/ hosting, interviewing experts, and curating and simplifying news for the benefit of students. He hosts the YouTube talk show called 'Art and Culture with Devdutt Pattanaik' and a LIVE series on Instagram and YouTube called 'You Ask We Answer'.His talks on 'How to read a newspaper' focus on newspaper reading as an essential habit for students. His articles and videos aim at finding solutions to the general queries of students and hence he believes in being students' editor, preparing them not just for any exam but helping them to become informed citizens. This is where he makes his teaching profession meet journalism. He is also the editor of UPSC Essentials' monthly magazine for the aspirants. He is a recipient of the Dip Chand Memorial Award, the Lala Ram Mohan Prize and Prof. Papiya Ghosh Memorial Prize for academic excellence. He was also awarded the University's Post-Graduate Scholarship for pursuing M.A. in History where he chose to specialise in Ancient India due to his keen interest in Archaeology. He has also successfully completed a Certificate course on Women's Studies by the Women's Studies Development Centre, DU. As a part of N.S.S in the past, Manas has worked with national and international organisations and has shown keen interest and active participation in Social Service. He has led and been a part of projects involving areas such as gender sensitisation, persons with disability, helping slum dwellers, environment, adopting our heritage programme. He has also presented a case study on 'Psychological stress among students' at ICSQCC- Sri Lanka. As a compere for seminars and other events he likes to keep his orating hobby alive. His interests also lie in International Relations, Governance, Social issues, Essays and poetry. ... Read More
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Indian Express
44 minutes ago
- Indian Express
UPSC Mains 2025 Ethics Paper Revision Checklist: Top 15 ethical issues aspirants shouldn't miss for theory and case studies
Are You Mains Ready? With the UPSC CSE Mains 2025 beginning on August 22, Ethics paper is one which requires your special attention testing not just your ethical content but also writing skills. That's not all. UPSC has also been focusing on contemporary issues and raising ethical questions for candidates alongside conceptual themes. On closer observation, it appears that some recurring themes are indirectly related to the ethical dimensions of current affairs, even if UPSC does not mention them explicitly in the questions. Therefore, the least that is expected from a candidate is to be aware of the burning issues in the social, political, cultural, and economic spheres, and to be able to view them through an ethical lens. In a significant development, a three-judge bench of the Supreme Court reserved its interim order on managing the stray dog population in the National Capital Region (NCR). The court's move follows close on the heels of another bench's suo motu proceedings, which directed the relocation of stray dogs from public streets to designated shelters. The directive has sparked protests, particularly from dog lovers and animal welfare groups. Where is this heading? Only time will tell. But beyond the legal and logistical debates, a deeper question remains: What does true compassion look like? Be prepared to have your ethics tested — especially when comparing two simultaneous events through the lens of compassion. Recently, many lives were lost in the Uttarakhand landslide. But did cities like Delhi come together in empathy? Do we protest when one human hurts another? Do we cry out when stray dogs attack a child on the street? Why is compassion not a social behavior? So, isn't it time we reclaim compassion—not as a rare virtue, but as a defining trait of our humanity? Loving animals is human. But loving people, especially the elderly, the poor, and the vulnerable, is human too. Because compassion should never be selective. These are questions worth asking and you are not expected to take any side but reflect. Points to ponder: 1. When it comes to public policy, how can balance between compassion for animals and human safety and welfare be ensured? 2. How should a civil servant ensure that compassion plays an important role in decision-making during crises? Refer: Can compassion bridge the gap between humans and animals? A few months ago, when Infosys founder, Narayan Murthy talked about working seventy hours a week to fulfill the dream of a developed India, a debate erupted across the country about working hours. The chairman of Larsen & Toubro, SN Subrahmanyan, even said that if it were up to him, he would like to see his employees in the office even on Sundays—and not just for seventy hours, but for ninety hours a week. This debate has impacted the work-life balance of every employee who leaves for the office at 8 a.m. and returns home around 8 or 9 p.m.—a twelve-hour workday. And even at home, WhatsApp and phone calls keep him connected to the office. Work as a duty has ethical foundations. Work is worship, and it has been taught to all of us. But what about the modern day work-life? Why are work-life balance and leadership's role in fostering a healthy, productive, and humane work culture essential for work ethics? The debate also involves 'productivity vs. pressure', 'quantity vs. quality', role of leadership, stress, health, and the imbalance we ignore etc. when seeing work-life balance from the prism of work culture and work ethics. Points to ponder: 1. What is the link between work-life balance and work ethics? 2. The ethical case for work-life balance goes beyond just time management. How? Refer: Why is work-life balance vital for a healthy work culture? Why is it so easy to copy and so difficult to give credit to the people or cultures behind an idea? A traditional Indian craft that left both an aesthetic and commercial footprint in Milan is hitting the headlines. These are the Kolhapuri chappals we all are familiar with. But what has disappointed many is that a well known brand, Prada failed to initially acknowledge the geographical origin and original artisans behind the Kolhapuri design. Instead of giving the due credit to the deserving, Prada added a vague note: 'Inspired by traditional Indian footwear.' On any ethics meter it is disrespectful and questions the integrity of an international brand. The creative world has long battled issues of credit and originality. Today, we even have software to detect plagiarism and agencies to investigate such misconduct. So why is it so hard for people to think ethically before engaging in acts of malfeasance? Think on the lines of trust, credit, cultural integrity, and what it means when ethics are forgotten. Points to ponder: 1. If someone is engaging in sophistry or behaving insidiously, how should we view their actions? 2. To what extent does the Prada–Kolhapuri chappals controversy highlight issues of cultural appropriation and ethical oversight in global branding? Refer: The Prada–Kolhapuri chappals controversy: A case study in ethical branding 'Be you ever so high, the law is above you'. An incident in the news that has shocked both the legal world and society needs an ethical lens. The Supreme Court formally recommended the transfer of a Judge to his parent High Court following a fire at his residence on March 14. What turned the blaze into a national spectacle? Allegations that bundles of burnt currency were found in his home. Episodes like these challenge the collective integrity of institutions and society; they test not just individuals, but the entire framework of trust. And that is the underlying truth we must grasp when analyzing such news in the media. Moreover, as a student of ethics who is expected to lead an ethical public life, you are expected to closely observe such incidents through a moral lens. In such cases, you must ask—or UPSC might, indirectly, without mentioning the incident—its most popular ethics-style question: in the grand theatre of law and justice, what role does ethics really play? Even the Supreme Court recently reminded all of us about public trust and constitutional oath through a recent case related to the power of Governors to deal with Bills presented to them. The Court said, 'Hence, any action contrary to the express choice of the people, in other words, the state legislature, would be a renege of the constitutional oath…We find it apposite to observe that constitutional authorities occupying high office must be guided by the values of the constitution.' Point to ponder: What is the cornerstone of judicial integrity? Refer: What is the cornerstone of judicial integrity? The Ranveer Allahbadia controversy made headlines, news and noise. Apart from other things, the debate also revolved around a basic ethical question which is more relevant in today's time: Does being an influencer mean 'Free Thinking' minus the 'Values'? The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (Article 19) states, 'Everyone has the right to freedom and opinion.' In simple ways, it affirms the right to freedom of expression but where to draw the moral boundaries? Morality in communication is similar to morality elsewhere, the ones which we have been reading and writing in the Ethics simplified series since the beginning. Family values in moral communication are an integral part too. Immoral communication can often be subjective and culturally relative, but universal values still exist. One of these values is human dignity, as well as the relationship between parents and children, which forms the foundation of family values. The YouTuber's comments challenged these values and sparked concern about the impact of online content on children. This incident also reminds us of the growing influence of social media and how it impacts our daily lives. If the expressions of influencers are the new 'normal' of the online world, are we ready for this shift? Point to ponder: Are the influencers' expressions merely reflections of society, or are they shaping it? Refer: Core of the Ranveer Allahbadia row: Who is an Influencer—and who isn't? The recent talks between the US and Ukrainian presidents have drawn global attention, sparking questions about whether this is the right approach for leaders to address a situation that continues to impact lives. Should leaders revisit the ethics of International Relations? How should global leadership address war or talk to opposing parties in conflicts? Many would argue that it should be with a combination of national interest, strategic foresight, and sharp diplomacy. After all, it is an opportunity to show that you are a 'world leader.' Is it? There are many aspects of ethics in international relations. We shall address the most urgent one today. When we discuss the ethics of war—jus ad bellum (when it's just to go to war) and jus in bello (how war should be conducted)—both emerge as perennial issues. In practice, we often focus on international diplomacy in these discussions, but perhaps we should begin by asking global leaders a more fundamental question: what is the moral ground for war? It's time for the heads of the states to revisit the basics of ethics in international relations. How can we shift the conversation of world leaders toward emphasizing peace over conflict in the context of ethics in international relations by reevaluating the fundamental principles that guide diplomatic interactions? Point to ponder: How can world leaders employ ethical principles to resolve global conflicts and prevent wars? Refer: What should world leaders know about ethics in International Relations? Whether it is Russia-Ukraine or the Middle East – wars have been in constant news. But it is not enough to read about the ongoing wars from the newspapers and update your current affairs notes. Go beyond the headlines and add an ethical dimension to your we justify war? Does Ethics have any role to play in any war? We saw our country too facing a conflict, yet again—one defined by terrorism and uncertainty. In response to terrorism, our armed forces carried out an unparalleled mission—Operation Sindoor—which successfully destroyed numerous terrorist hideouts. India stood united, demonstrating a powerful surge of patriotic fervour in one voice. Undoubtedly, the Indian Armed Forces once again proved to the world that a soldier embodies patriotism, and patriotism lives through the soldier. In India, patriotism wears a uniform. The daily press conferences served as a testament to this truth. A soldier is trained to fight and defend the nation—and, without hesitation, is prepared to lay down his or her life for the protection of the motherland. But what about the civilians? It is also important to address another pressing issue — unity and brotherhood in times of adversity, especially in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attacks. Point to ponder: What is patriotism? Is there a difference between the patriotism of a soldier and that of a civilian? Discuss. Discuss: 'Never think that war, no matter how necessary, nor how justified, is not a crime.' — Ernest Hemingway, 1946 Environment and ethics is one of the most important areas that we must be prepared to answer. One of the worrisome issues every year is air pollution. Let's try to see this dark world of man-created pollution. For a farmer, their fields, gardens, and nests are that piece of land under the open sky. Now the question is whether it is fair to put all the blame on them for that stubble burning. Many industries are using garbage for generating energy and thus helping the people and environment. Why can we not create a system through a public-private partnership to buy all Stubble from farmers in advance? Is it so difficult? We have witnessed the goodness in decision-making for human beings at the time of COVID when vaccination became a possibility for the whole nation. Recently the Supreme Court asked whether children of tenth and twelfth have different kinds of lungs. The Supreme Court asked all state governments in Delhi & NCR to close the schools. Why do we wait for the Supreme Court to take all calls for goodness and humanity too? Is compassion and care not a part of ethical decision-making at various levels in institutions? If yes, why then wait for the judiciary to intervene? Compassionate governance for a developing country like India is a must and decision-making must be done with a steadfast approach to human relationships. Law can be coded in letter and spirit by courts but general compassion and care have to be part of governance and normal life. Point to ponder: What ethical responsibilities do we owe future generations when it comes air quality? Refer: Why applying ethics to air pollution is the need of the hour? What fosters India's unity in diversity, bringing us all closer and making us happier? One answer to this question is — the culture of sports. The sports culture undoubtedly unifies us all, across lines of age, gender, class, religion, caste, socio-economic status, educational qualifications, and against all biases in our society. So the obvious questions that you must have answers when talking about sports ethics: Can sports entertain and enlighten? Can sports be a mirror of moral values? Also, what does sportsmanship mean for all those who are watching a sport? What must also be kept in mind that There was an unfortunate tragedy just after the IPL this year. The Bengaluru stampede, where joy turned tragic at the he cost of celebration. And yes, cricket won, but it would have been a great celebration if those lives had been saved. And more so if the celebration had paused and that sensitivity and urgency had emerged. Points to ponder: 1. Is sports more than a game — A reflection of ethics and the human spirit? Discuss. 2. Sports also teach us righteousness and responsible ways to handle defeat. Do the spectators across the globe and even in our country have shown that kind of maturity on the edge of defeat? What lessons of self-conduct do we take in times of failure or especially when we are victorious? Refer: What does IPL offer beyond entertainment, glamour and money? How should spectators behave according to sports ethics? Our society should be deeply rooted in the constitutional values that ensure the protection of the common citizen while paving a clear path for policies designed to uplift the nation. Constitution Day is not merely a commemoration; it is a profound reminder of our shared duty to uphold the ideals of freedom, equality, fraternity, and justice. It is a call to remember that the Constitution exists for the people, guaranteeing them safety, dignity, and a fair chance in a thriving, inclusive democracy like India. As we celebrate 75 years of the Indian Constitution, we witness an evolution in the very essence of justice. The image of the Goddess of Justice no longer requires a sword to enforce authority or a blindfold to signify impartiality. As former Chief Justice of India remarked, the law must not remain blind. Instead, it must gaze openly and equally upon all citizens, ensuring justice is administered with clarity, empathy, and fairness. This should lead us to think : Why must we embody these values, not just in actions but in ethical spirit? True justice does not reside in the vestiges of colonial legacies but in the relentless pursuit of civil rights and the moral compass outlined by our Constitution. For civil servants, this is not just an aspiration—it is a mandate. Their role is to work with integrity, selflessness, and unwavering commitment to the welfare of ordinary citizens. Constitutional values are the foundation of a just society, ensuring dignity, fairness, and equality for all, irrespective of identity. These values are not abstract ideals; they are the lifeblood of society. Integrity shapes public trust, and ethical decisions grounded in constitutional values manifest the democratic ideals we strive to uphold. These constitutional values indispensable. Also take a moment to remember the journey of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and how it offers profound lessons in justice and equality. Point to ponder: What ethical standards should civil servants hold themselves to in order to maintain the integrity of the Constitution, especially in a diverse democracy like India? Discuss in the light of Ambedkar's remark that a Constitution is only as good as the people who implement it. Refer: What should Civil Services aspirants know about constitutional values in contemporary times? No matter how difficult an issue is to be viewed through the lens of ethics, knowing the basics is most important. In reference to Ethics, Aptitude, and Integrity (GS Paper 4), understanding values is crucial not only for your exams but also for life in general. When it comes to aspiring for civil services, the foundational values of civil services should not be overlooked by an aspirant. News on corruption in bureaucracy is very common that you come across. At the same time there is no lack of success and positive stories of ethical civil servants. We must look for them too. The Indian Civil Service stands as a cornerstone of our democracy, deeply rooted in ethical values that ensure not only efficiency at work but also pave a clear path for service aimed at uplifting the nation, its institutions, and individuals. While searching for cardinal values in human life and governance, one often wonders whether they are different from each other — or if human life is somehow separate from the life of a civil servant. But before diving into this deeper question on ethics, one must start with the basics. The role of values in objective and ethical decision-making is huge in a life of a civil servant. Empathy, integrity, and commitment in public service is pre-requisite to remain true to one's job. Becoming a civil servant with integrity and purpose is what every candidate should eye for. These are some of the values in governance and life of a civil servant that aspirants are expected to know. Point to ponder: How are universal human values foundational to civil services as well? Discuss two such values with examples from the life of a civil servant. Refer: What are the foundational values of civil services? What makes a civil servant ethical? Ethical considerations and robust governance frameworks are essential as technology advances rapidly. Cybersecurity is the biggest challenge that the world faces today. Rising crime (financial fraud, identity theft, ransomware etc.) and weak regulatory framework doesn't just pose problems on governance level but is an ethical issue to be addressed. Ethical considerations extend to various facets of technology, including data privacy, surveillance, cybersecurity, intellectual property rights, and the digital divide. Dr BVR Mohan Reddy, founder chairman of Cyient, a multinational tech firm said (as reported in The Indian Express) that robust frameworks are 'essential for building trust, promoting equitable access, and safeguarding the well-being of individuals and society as a whole'. Noting that Artificial intelligence (AI) is a plausible 'ethical minefield', Dr Reddy added, 'AI algorithms possess tremendous power, capable of making critical decisions that impact our lives… The ethical dilemma lies in ensuring that these AI systems are fair, unbiased, and accountable. We must prevent the perpetuation of discrimination, preserve human dignity, and ensure transparency in AI decision-making by holding AI systems accountable for their actions…' Aspirants are expected to address concerns such as bias, privacy, security, and accountability. No one denies the power of technology to transform lives but recognising the ethical dilemmas is equally important. Point to ponder: In an increasingly digital world, how should ethical principles guide the handling of cybersecurity challenges? Can politics and ethics go hand in hand? This topic will always be relevant. As you know well, we are living in an age of politics. For Chanakya, Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, and other philosophers, politics has been a central subject of discussion and even today it easily occupies the cognitive space of mortals. There is something unique even in a country like ours. People love to absorb themselves in political analysis and rarely refrain from passing any political opinion. However, for a bureaucrat, it is not the same. They keep a distance while in service to comment or pass an opinion, and focus more on becoming a bridge between politics and public or policies and benefits. Ideally we must firmly believe that politics and ethics can go together, particularly in a democracy like India or other democratic countries. However, there have been several incidents after independence in India and even globally which asserts this conviction a bit faintly. Point to ponder: Doing politics is different from being in politics. Do you agree? Do ethics and politics belong to different worlds? Refer: Politics and ethics: The concept This isn't a standalone topic. It is the most recurring theme in the paper. Ethical issues related to gender in India span across social, economic, political, legal, and cultural dimensions. A closer analysis reveals that they are deeply rooted in inequalities and moral questions about fairness, autonomy, justice, and dignity. Gender-based violence, female foeticide, pay gap and job inequality, political underrepresentation, personal law disparities, transgender marginalization, workplace harassment, menstrual stigma, and caste-gender intersection are a few examples. These gender issues raise many core ethical concerns: dignity, justice, bodily autonomy, health rights, safety, respect, right to life, fairness, economic justice, equality, participatory justice, inclusion, etc. Expect a question that may directly test your ethical response to a situation-based topic in the news (possibly through a case study) or a general question assessing your ethical foundations on gender issues. Point to ponder: Discuss the ethical challenges related to gender equality in India. How can public servants promote fairness and dignity across gender issues? There are several evolving ethical issues in parent–children relationships in today's time. These are mostly shaped by rapid social, cultural, and technological changes. These issues often revolve around autonomy, control, privacy, generational conflict, and value systems. Academic pressure and the mental health of children, neglect or abandonment of elderly parents, overparenting or helicopter parenting, enforcing choices, digital disconnect and value gaps, gender bias in parenting, and raising children in a materialistic world are some of the key concerns. Every day, the newspaper carries at least one headline mentioning a tragic episode related to one of the above issues. Deeply rooted in the society we live in, these issues require an ethical perspective. Point to ponder: What are the ethical responsibilities of parents in nurturing values and autonomy in their children in today's rapidly changing society? UPSC Mains 2025 Revision: Top 15 Polity and Governance topics UPSC Mains 2025 Revision Checklist: Top 15 International Relations topics UPSC Mains 2025 Revision Checklist: Top 15 Science and technology topics UPSC Mains 2025 Revision Checklist: Top 15 Economy topics aspirants shouldn't miss What are 'directive words' in a UPSC Mains question paper and how do they help in scoring well? How to write effective answers for UPSC Mains Exam : 3 steps and 5 FAQs Subscribe to our UPSC newsletter. Stay updated with the latest UPSC articles by joining our Telegram channel – Indian Express UPSC Hub, and follow us on Instagram and X. Click Here to read the UPSC Essentials magazine for July 2025.
Indian Express
8 hours ago
- Indian Express
Sustainable Aviation Fuel : How is it relevant for UPSC Exam
Take a look at the essential events, concepts, terms, quotes, or phenomena every day and brush up your knowledge. Here's your UPSC Current Affairs knowledge nugget for today on sustainable aviation fuel. The country's largest refiner and fuel retailer Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) expects to start producing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) on commercial scale at its Panipat refinery by December, following the recent international certification received by the unit for manufacturing the biofuel from used cooking oil. In this context, it becomes essential to know about the SAF in detail. 1. Aircraft emit water vapour, soot, sulfur aerosols, nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), which contribute to the formation of contrails – clouds that form when water vapour condenses and freezes around small particles (aerosols) in aircraft exhaust. All of these factors have additional warming effects on the atmosphere. In this context, SAF has emerged as a credible alternative with the potential to reduce aviation-related emissions. 2. According to aviation industry and energy experts, SAF alone is likely to account for over 60 per cent of the global aviation industry's decarbonisation efforts. 3. SAF, also known as aviation biofuel, is a biofuel that is produced from sustainable feedstocks and has chemistry similar to conventional aviation turbine fuel (ATF) or jet fuel, which is derived from crude oil. 4. It is a 'drop in' fuel, meaning it can be blended with ATF without requiring any change in the existing machinery of aircraft. 5. SAF can be derived from a range of materials, including: — Oils and fats such as Used Cooking Oil (UCO), oil-rich seeds from plants, algae oils, animal fats, — Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) — Agricultural and forestry residues such as wood waste, sugarcane bagasse, corn stover, husks and straw, sugars and starches. 6. There are various methods to produce SAF, with each using different combinations of raw materials. However, for SAF to be truly sustainable, it is important that the feedstock used in its production does not compete with food production, cause deforestation, or harm biodiversity. 1. SAF offers multiple benefits. The primary advantage is its ability to significantly reduce emissions and its compatibility with the current global aircraft fleet. It means SAF can be used without modifications to existing planes, engines, or fueling infrastructure. 2. It is estimated that SAF has the potential to reduce GHG emissions in air travel by up to 80 per cent compared to conventional jet fuel. 3. Diversification of fuel sources in the aviation sector can help reduce import dependence and protect the sector from global oil price volatility. This, in turn, could lead to a more stable aviation sector, possibly making air travel accessible to larger sections of society 4. Moreover, SAF adoption will also generate employment opportunities in the sustainability sector. 1. The cost of producing these biofuels, which is more than double that of conventional fuels, makes its large-scale adoption difficult for airlines without passing the burden onto consumers. 2. The production, storage, blending, and transportation of SAF require the development of new infrastructure, which would add significantly to the initial cost of adoption. 3. Another key issue is the availability and sustainability of feedstock required for SAF production. The characteristics and variety of necessary feedstock mean that there is no guarantee of year-round supply. 2. ISCC CORSIA is a prerequisite for commercial SAF production. Notably, the year 2027 will be an important one for adoption of SAF globally with the mandatory phase of CORSIA kicking in. 3. CORSIA, which applies to international flights, would require airlines globally to offset any growth in carbon dioxide emissions beyond the 2020 levels. Using jet fuel blended with SAF is one of the ways through which carriers can keep their emissions under permissible levels. 4. India, too, will have to comply with the mandatory phase starting 2027. In line with the CORSIA framework, India's National Biofuel Coordination Committee (NBCC) has set the initial indicative targets for blending of SAF with jet fuel 2027 onwards, starting with international flights. 5. The indicative targets are: 1 per cent blending in 2027 and 2 per cent in 2028. The government is expected to announce SAF blending mandates for domestic flights in India as well, but only after blending for international flights begins 2027 onwards. Consider the following statements with reference to sustainable aviation fuel: 1. SAF is a biofuel that is produced from sustainable feedstocks 2. ISCC CORSIA is a prerequisite for commercial SAF production. 3. India's National Biofuel Coordination Committee (NBCC) has set the initial indicative targets for blending of SAF with jet fuel 2027 onwards. How many of the statements given above are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None (Sources: Used cooking oil to fuel for planes: India's first sustainable aviation fuel plant to start production by year-end, How India's biofuel potential complements its leadership in sustainable aviation fuel) Subscribe to our UPSC newsletter. Stay updated with the latest UPSC articles by joining our Telegram channel – Indian Express UPSC Hub, and follow us on Instagram and X. 🚨 Click Here to read the UPSC Essentials magazine for July 2025. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at
Indian Express
a day ago
- Indian Express
Daily subject-wise static quiz: History and Culture MCQs on popular literary works on India's freedom struggle (Week 122)
Are you preparing for UPSC CSE Prelims? UPSC Essentials brings to you its initiative of daily subject-wise quizzes. These quizzes are designed to help you revise some of the most important topics from the static part of the syllabus. Attempt today's subject quiz on History and Culture to check your progress. Note: Today's history and culture quiz is based on popular literary works related to India's freedom struggle. The questions have been curated from two articles by Mohammad Asim Siddiqui, written for the UPSC Specials column in UPSC Essentials by The Indian Express. 🚨 Click Here to read the UPSC Essentials magazine for July 2025. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at Consider the following statements: 1. Vande Mataram, India's national song that was very popular during the freedom struggle, is from Bankim Chandra Chatterjee's Bengali novel Anandmath 2. The famous song 'Vijayi Vishwa tiranga pyara/jhanda uncha rahe hamara', often sung during important events, was written by Hasrat Mohani. Which of the above given statements is/are true? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Vande Mataram, India's national song that was very popular during the freedom struggle, is from Bankim Chandra Chatterjee's Bengali novel Anandmath (1882). The famous song 'Vijayi Vishwa tiranga pyara/jhanda uncha rahe hamara', often sung during important events, was written by Hindi poet Shyamlal Gupta in 1924 and was later adopted by the Indian National Congress. Therefore, a is the correct answer. (For more, refer – Ye Jung hai Jung-e Azadi: lyrical echoes of India's freedom struggle by Mohammad Asim Siddiqui, UPSC Specials, The Indian Express.) Which of the following literary works is a collection of poems inspired by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's Bardoli Satyagraha in Gujarat – the agitation against the excessive taxation imposed on farmers by the colonial government? (a) Poos ki Raat (b) Khooni Vaisakhi (c) Vijay Sandesh (d) Bharat Bharti Ramdhari Singh Dinkar (1908-1974), another important poet known for taking up the themes of nationalism and patriotism in his poetry, wrote Vijay Sandesh (1928), a collection of poems inspired by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's Bardoli Satyagraha in Gujarat – the agitation against the excessive taxation imposed on farmers by the colonial government. Therefore, c is the correct answer. (For more, refer – Ye Jung hai Jung-e Azadi: lyrical echoes of India's freedom struggle by Mohammad Asim Siddiqui, UPSC Specials, The Indian Express.) Consider the following pairs: Literary Works : Author/Poet 1. Khooni Vaisakhi : Nanak Singh 2. In Gokhale's Garden : Sarojini Naidu 3. To India- My Native Land : Henry Louis Vivian Derozio 4. Bharat Bharti : Maithilisharan Gupt Which of the above mentioned pairs are not correctly matched? (a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 1, 2 and 4 only (c) 2, 3 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 In Bharat Bharti (1912), a book of social awakening, Maithilisharan Gupt contrasts India's greatness in education, art and civilisation in the past with the decline he perceived in his time. Henry Louis Vivian Derozio (1809-1831) clearly expressed his patriotism and love of freedom in his poetry. His famous poem 'To India: My Native Land' mourns the loss of India's ancient glory and laments its 'chained' state and misery under British rule. Sarojini Naidu described Gopal Krishna Gokhale as 'steadfast, serene, dauntless, supremely wise' in her poem In Gokhale's Garden. Nanak Singh (1897-1971), who participated in the protest against the Rowlett Act and miraculously survived the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, wrote a moving account of the tragedy in his long poem Khooni Vaisakhi: A Poem from the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre 1919. Therefore, d is the correct answer. (For more, refer – Ye Jung hai Jung-e Azadi: lyrical echoes of India's freedom struggle by Mohammad Asim Siddiqui, UPSC Specials, The Indian Express.) Consider the following statements: 1. Ram Prasad Bismil , a freedom fighter and poet, wrote the ghazal 'Sarfaroshi ki tamanna' in 1921 after the Jallianwala Bagh tragedy. 2. 'Inquilab Zindabad', the patriotic war cry of revolutionaries during the freedom movement, was coined by freedom fighter and Urdu poet Hasrat Mohani in 1921. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Bismil Azimabadi, a freedom fighter and poet, wrote the ghazal 'Sarfaroshi ki tamanna' in 1921 after the Jallianwala Bagh tragedy. This ghazal became very popular after Ram Prasad Bismil (1897-1927), a freedom fighter and one of the founders of Hindustan Socialist Republican Association, recited it while facing his execution in 1927 for the Kakori train robbery. Hence, statement 1 is not correct. Therefore, b is the correct answer. (For more, refer – Ye Jung hai Jung-e Azadi: lyrical echoes of India's freedom struggle by Mohammad Asim Siddiqui, UPSC Specials, The Indian Express.) Naya Qanoon, 1919 ki ek Baat and Tamasha, exploring events of the freedom movement, were written by: (a) Saadat Hasan Manto (b) Premchand (c) Mulk Raj Anand (d) Khwaja Ahmad Abbas Among the stories exploring events of the freedom movement, Saadat Hasan Manto's 'Naya Qanoon', '1919 ki ek Baat' and 'Tamasha' stand out as iconic stories. 'Naya Qanoon' indirectly refers to the Government of India Act 1935. 'Tamasha' and '1919 ki ek Baat' were written against the backdrop of the Jallianwala Bagh tragedy. Therefore, a is the correct answer. (For more, refer: Stories of India's freedom struggle through Tagore, Premchand and Manto by Mohammad Asim Siddiqui, UPSC Specials, The Indian Express.) Many of Premchand's writings demonstrate his patriotism and anti-colonial stance. Which of the following literary works was not penned by him? (a) Soz-e Watan (b) Karmabhumi (c) Karbala (d) Kanthapura Raja Rao's famous novel Kanthapura (1938) is as much known for his use of de-anglicised English as for his treatment of many Gandhian ideas in the novel. Therefore, d is the correct answer. (For more, refer: Stories of India's freedom struggle through Tagore, Premchand and Manto by Mohammad Asim Siddiqui, UPSC Specials, The Indian Express.) Ghare Baire ( translated into English as Home and the World ), set against the backdrop of the Swadeshi movement in Bengal, is written by: (a) Chittaranjan Das (b) Sarat Chandra Chatterjee (c) Rabindranath Tagore (d) Bankim Chandra Chatterjee Rabindranath Tagore's novel Ghare Baire (1916), translated into English as Home and the World, engages creatively with Bankim Chandra Chatterjee's Anandmath (1882). Tagore's novel is critical of the western idea of nationalism, advanced by a character called Sandip. Set against the backdrop of the Swadeshi movement in Bengal, the novel presents a nuanced view of the movement through Nikhilesh's and Sandip's different perspectives. Therefore, c is the correct answer. (For more, refer: Stories of India's freedom struggle through Tagore, Premchand and Manto by Mohammad Asim Siddiqui, UPSC Specials, The Indian Express.) Which of the following literary works, written in the context of Gandhiji's Satyagraha and Dandi March, shows the impact of the movement on a village and the enthusiasm of ordinary villagers in welcoming the Satyagrahis and supporting their cause? (a) Nil Darpan (b) Dasher Katha (c) Bharat Bharti (d) Samar Yatra Premchand's story 'Samar Yatra', written in the context of Gandhiji's Satyagraha and Dandi March, shows the impact of the movement on a village and the enthusiasm of ordinary villagers to welcome the Satyagrahis and their cause. The story also presents an old and ailing woman, Nohari, who welcomes the freedom fighters, overcoming her physical limitations. Therefore, d is the correct answer. (For more, refer: Stories of India's freedom struggle through Tagore, Premchand and Manto by Mohammad Asim Siddiqui, UPSC Specials, The Indian Express.) Subscribe to our UPSC newsletter and stay updated with the news cues from the past week. Stay updated with the latest UPSC articles by joining our Telegram channel – IndianExpress UPSC Hub, and follow us on Instagram and X.
