Latest news with #UPSCCivilServicesMainsExamination2025
Economic Times
2 days ago
- General
- Economic Times
UPSC CSE mains admit card 2025 released at upsc.gov.in: Direct link and easy instructions to download
Synopsis The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the admit cards for the Civil Services Mains Examination 2025, accessible on the official website. Scheduled for August 22, 23, 24, 30, and 31, the exam includes two shifts and qualifying language papers. Agencies The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the admit card for the UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination 2025. Candidates appearing for the Civil Services Mains can now check and download their hall tickets from the official UPSC website at download the UPSC CSE Mains Admit Card 2025, candidates will need to enter their Registration Number or Roll Number. The UPSC Mains Examination 2025 is scheduled to be conducted on 22, 23, 24, 30, and 31 August 2025. The first shift will run from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon, while the second shift will be held from 2:30 pm to 5:30 examination will include two papers, Paper A and Paper B. Paper A (Indian languages) and Paper B (English) will be of Matriculation or equivalent standard and are of a qualifying nature. Marks obtained in these papers will not be counted towards the final this recruitment drive, UPSC aims to fill 979 vacancies. Direct Link Here Candidates can follow the steps below to download their hall tickets: Visit the official UPSC website at On the homepage, navigate to the 'What's New' section and click on the link to download the UPSC Mains Admit Card 2025. Enter your credentials and submit. Check the admit card displayed on the screen. Download and print a copy for future reference. For more details, candidates are advised to visit the official UPSC website.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
UPSC CSE mains admit card 2025 released at upsc.gov.in: Direct link and easy instructions to download
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the admit card for the UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination 2025 . Candidates appearing for the Civil Services Mains can now check and download their hall tickets from the official UPSC website at Independence Day 2025 Before Trump, British used tariffs to kill Indian textile Bank of Azad Hind: When Netaji gave India its own currency Swadeshi 2.0: India is no longer just a market, it's a maker To download the UPSC CSE Mains Admit Card 2025, candidates will need to enter their Registration Number or Roll Number. The UPSC Mains Examination 2025 is scheduled to be conducted on 22, 23, 24, 30, and 31 August 2025. The first shift will run from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon, while the second shift will be held from 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Beyond Text Generation: An AI Tool That Helps You Write Better Grammarly Install Now Undo The examination will include two papers, Paper A and Paper B. Paper A (Indian languages) and Paper B (English) will be of Matriculation or equivalent standard and are of a qualifying nature. Marks obtained in these papers will not be counted towards the final ranking. Through this recruitment drive, UPSC aims to fill 979 vacancies. Live Events Direct Link Here UPSC Mains Hall Tickets 2025: Steps to Download Candidates can follow the steps below to download their hall tickets: Visit the official UPSC website at On the homepage, navigate to the 'What's New' section and click on the link to download the UPSC Mains Admit Card 2025. Enter your credentials and submit. Check the admit card displayed on the screen. Download and print a copy for future reference. For more details, candidates are advised to visit the official UPSC website.
Indian Express
4 days ago
- Science
- Indian Express
UPSC Mains 2025 Revision Checklist: Top 15 Science and technology topics aspirants shouldn't miss
Are You Mains Ready? The UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination 2025 will start from August 22. No subject is predictable — each one can throw in unexpected topics when you least expect them. Science and Technology stands out in General Studies-Paper III as a rapidly growing section in which conceptual depth must coexist with knowledge of the most recent discoveries and breakthroughs. From AI and quantum technologies to space missions, biotechnology, and renewable energy solutions, this domain frequently overlaps with security, the environment, the economy, and government, making regular updates and interdisciplinary collaboration critical for success. UPSC Mains 2025 Revision: Top 15 Polity and Governance topics aspirants shouldn't miss UPSC Mains 2025 Revision Checklist: Top 15 International Relations 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 📌 Why in News? Recently, the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) has made the genome data of 10,000 individuals publicly accessible under the Genome India Project (GIP). It is essential to recognise how creating a comprehensive genetic database can revolutionise precision medicine, enhance diagnostics, and facilitate population-specific disease risk prediction—crucial for India's diverse genetic landscape. Key dimensions to cover: • What is genome sequencing? • What is the strategic importance of GIP? • What are the ethical and technical challenges? • How would this project help to advance personalised medicine and public health in the country? • How can genome mapping contribute to rare disease diagnosis in India? • What are the potential non-medical applications of genome data in India? • How does GIP help in shaping public health policies for India? PYQ Insight: 📍What is the basic principle behind vaccine development? How do vaccines work? What approaches were adopted by the Indian vaccine manufacturers to produce COVID-19 vaccines? (2022) Other important article covering the same topic: Why the Genome India Project and Gene Editing are important for the UPSC Exam Why Genome India Project matters UPSC Essentials | Mains answer practice — GS 3 📌 Why in News? Recently, the Indian Navy commissioned INS Nistar. The induction of Nistar into the Navy after the successful integration of the two DSRVs is a major milestone for India's deep-sea capabilities. In the context of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), it is important from a GS-3 security and maritime security perspective. Key dimensions to cover: • What is the IOR's role in securing India's energy security? • How does SAGAR reflect India's maritime security and foreign policy objectives? • What are the main global trade routes in IOR? • In what ways has the Indian Navy helped with humanitarian aid and disaster relief in the IOR? • What is the role of IONS, IORA, and the QUAD in maritime cooperation? • What role can the Indian Coast Guard and radar networks play in improving coastal security integration? PYQ Insight: 📍What are the maritime security challenges in India? Discuss the organisational, technical and procedural initiatives taken to improve maritime security. (2022) Other important article covering the same topic How newly commissioned INS Nistar will help save lives in deep sea UPSC Essentials | Mains answer practice — GS 3 📌 Why in News? The much-awaited launch of NISAR — an earth observation satellite jointly developed by NASA and ISRO was launched from the country's only spaceport in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. NISAR is the first of its kind mission, jointly developed by ISRO and NASA. NISAR, which stands for NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar, has been built by space agencies of the US and India under a partnership agreement signed in 2014. ISRO's recent space missions are crucial for UPSC Mains GS-3 because they demonstrate India's accomplishments in science and technology, strategic capabilities, disaster management, and space diplomacy. Key dimensions to cover: • How is the NISAR mission in strengthening India's disaster management, environmental monitoring, and climate resilience strategies? • Read about India's first human spaceflight programme. • How ISRO's SpaDeX mission marks a technological milestone for India's future lunar and space station ambitions? • How does the upgradation of the NavIC navigation system through the NVS-02 satellite contribute to India's strategic and civilian applications? • Read about Aditya-L1 (Solar Observation Mission) • What is microgravity research in space? PYQ Insight: 📍What is the main task of India's third moon mission which could not be achieved in its earlier mission? List the countries that have achieved this task. Introduce the subsystems in the spacecraft launched and explain the role of the Virtual Launch Control Centre' at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre which contributed to the successful launch from Sriharikota. (2023) 📍What do you understand by 'Standard Positioning System' and 'Precision Positioning System' in the GPS era? Discuss the advantages India perceives from its ambitious IRNSS programme employing just seven satellites. (2015) Other important article covering the same topic Knowledge Nugget | NISAR in focus: Why is this NASA-ISRO mission relevant for UPSC Exam UPSC Essentials | Mains answer practice — GS 3 📌 Why in News? The clinical trial results of India's first CAR T-cell therapy, published in The Lancet, show that it worked for nearly 73 per cent of patients. In 2017, a similar question was asked: Stem cell therapy is gaining popularity in India to treat a wide variety of medical conditions including Leukaemia, Thalassemia, damaged cornea and several burns. Describe briefly what stem cell therapy is and what advantages it has over other treatments? Therefore, it becomes essential to cover such topics. Key dimensions to cover: • What is CAR T-cell therapy? • Working principle of CAR T-cell therapy • Its applications, advantages and challenges • What are its implications for India's health security and innovation ecosystem? Other important article covering the same topic CAR-T cell therapy: What is it and how does it work CAR-T cell therapy: Challenges and possible solutions Novel cancer therapy works for 73 per cent Indian patients in clinical trials: Why the Lancet report is significant 📌 Why in News? In a milestone for ISRO, the cowpea seedlings it sent to space as part of a biological experiment on December 30 have sprouted their first leaves. The experiment, ISRO's first biological experiment in space, was part of CROPS (Compact Research Module for Orbital Plant Studies), an automated platform designed to cultivate and sustain plant life in the microgravity environment of space. Key dimensions to cover: • What is the CROPS (Compact Research Module for Orbital Plant Studies) mission? • What is the significance of developing plant cultivation systems in microgravity for future space missions? • What are the potential benefits of space-based agriculture for long-duration human space exploration and settlements? • How can advancements in plant growth research in space contribute to food security and life-support systems on Earth? • What is the scope of microgravity plant research in enhancing the nation's space capabilities? PYQ Insight: 📍Discuss India's achievements in the field of Space Science and Technology. How the application of this technology has helped India in its socio-economic development? (2016) Other important article covering the same topic How and why are plants grown in space: Takeaways from ISRO's success UPSC Essentials | Mains answer practice — GS 3 📌 Why in News? Following more than three years of arduous negotiations, member states of the World Health Organization (WHO) adopted a legally binding treaty designed to tackle future pandemics better. The pandemic treaty, which has been adopted without the United States, is the only the second legally binding accord in the WHO's 75-year history, the first being the 2003 tobacco control treaty. Key dimensions to cover: • What is the Global Pandemic Treaty? • What are the key provisions of the treaty? • How does the Global Pandemic Treaty seek to preserve national sovereignty while ensuring global cooperation? • How far can the provisions of this treaty ensure preparedness for future pandemics? PYQ Insight: 📍Critically examine the role of WHO in providing global health security during the Covid-19 pandemic. (2020) Other important article covering the same topic Member states of WHO adopt global pandemic treaty: What does it entail? UPSC Essentials | Mains answer practice — GS 3 📌 Why in News? Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated three PARAM Rudra supercomputers worth Rs 130 crore. Developed indigenously under the National Supercomputing Mission (NSM), the three new supercomputers are located in Pune, Delhi, and Kolkata, and make up a High-Performance Computing (HPC) system tailored for weather and climate research. Key dimensions to cover: • What is a supercomputer? • What is the National Supercomputing Mission? • What is the significance of the National Supercomputing Mission? • What is the role of the National Supercomputing Mission in strengthening India's research ecosystem in areas like climate modelling, drug discovery, and artificial intelligence? • How does the National Supercomputing Mission contribute to India's aspirations in emerging technologies like quantum computing, big data analytics, and machine learning? • Read about India's progress under the National Supercomputing Mission. Other important article covering the same topic Explained: the significance of India's mission to develop supercomputers Knowledge nugget of the day: PARAM Rudra UPSC Essentials | Mains answer practice — GS 3 📌 Why in News? The United Nations' Outer Space Treaty is an international agreement binding member states to only use outer space for peaceful purposes. It spells out the principles governing the activities of states in the exploration and use of outer space, including the Moon and other celestial bodies. Russia vetoed a UN Security Council resolution, proposed jointly by the United States and Japan, which called on countries to prevent an arms race in outer space. Key dimensions to cover: • What is the Outer Space Treaty? • What are its key provisions and relevance in the present era of commercial and military space activities? • What is the role of the Outer Space Treaty in addressing issues of space debris management, satellite collisions, and the sustainability of outer space activities? • What is the relevance of the Outer Space Treaty for India's space programme in the context of the Artemis Accords and emerging international space partnerships? PYQ Insight: 📍Discuss India's achievements in the field of Space Science and Technology. How the application of this technology has helped India in its socio-economic development? (2016) Other important article covering the same topic What is the Outer Space Treaty and why the US and Russia are at odds over it? Space, India's final frontier and through the government, a gateway to the stars 📌 Why in News? In response to an increase in encounters with foreign terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir, the government is establishing an electronic surveillance system along its border with Pakistan to prevent infiltration. According to sources, this surveillance system consists of an integrated network of human-detection radars, thermal imaging and high-resolution cameras, complete floodlighting along fences, technology-enabled riverine patrols, and seismic sensors to locate tunnels. Key dimensions to cover: • What are advanced surveillance technologies? • What is the role of facial recognition systems, biometric databases, and drone-based monitoring in law enforcement? • What are the implications of advanced surveillance technology for disaster management, urban planning, and public health monitoring? • How can India achieve a balance between technical advances in surveillance and the principles of transparency, accountability, and proportionality? • How are advanced surveillance technologies becoming a strategic asset in modern warfare and counter-terrorism? PYQ Insight: 📍India has a long and troubled border with China and Pakistan fraught with contentious issues. Examine the conflicting issues and security challenges along the border. Also give out the development Programme (BADP) and Border Infrastructure and Management (BM) Scheme. (2024) 📍The use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) by our adversaries across the borders to ferry arms/ammunitions, drugs, etc., is a serious threat to the internal security. Comment on the measures being taken to tackle this threat. (2023) Other important article covering the same topic UPSC Essentials | Mains answer practice — GS 3 📌 Why in News? In one of the biggest moves to expand nuclear energy sector, the government in Union Budget 2025 announced a Nuclear Energy Mission for research & development of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and set a target of operationalising at least five such reactors in the next eight years. Topics such as Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) are relevant as they cover clean energy transition, technological advancements, energy security, and policy reforms in India's nuclear sector. Key dimensions to cover: • What are SMRs? • What are the design features and advantages of SMR? • What are its potential role in India's energy transition? • What are the implications of Small Modular Reactors for nuclear waste management and non-proliferation obligations? • India's readiness in terms of R&D, manufacturing capacity, and policy framework for adopting Small Modular Reactor technology. PYQ Insight: 📍Give an account of the growth and development of nuclear science and technology in India. What is the advantage of fast breeder reactor programme in India? (2017) Other important article covering the same topic Knowledge Nugget: How is Nuclear Energy Mission and Small Modular Reactors relevant for UPSC Exam? 📌 Why in News? The widespread misuse of deepfakes made the fight against misinformation more difficult. From time to time, various deepfake videos of actors and politicians have gone viral and have flared the issue of misinformation more widely. Thus, it becomes important to understand the issue of deepfakes from a broader perspective. Key dimensions to cover: • What are deepfakes and how do we identify them? • What are the concerns associated with the deepfakes? • What are the global initiatives related to deepfakes? • What initiatives are taken by India to regulate deepfakes? • What measures should be taken to combat the misuse of deepfakes and ensure digital trust? • What is Artificial Intelligence (AI)? • Benefits and Challenges of AI. PYQ Insight: 📍Introduce the concept of Artificial Intelligence (AI). How does Al help clinical diagnosis? Do you perceive any threat to privacy of the individual in the use of AI in healthcare? (UPSC CSE 2023) Other important article covering the same topic: UPSC Issue at a Glance | Deepfakes: 5 Key Questions You Must Know for Prelims and Mains 📌 Why in News? Disagreements over sensitive sectors such as agriculture and dairy have added to the uncertainty of an interim trade deal between India and the United States. As US negotiators are turning up the heat, urging India to open its agriculture market to genetically modified (GM) crops, India has been resisting US demands for greater access in the agriculture and dairy sectors and accepting GM imports. In this context, it becomes important to know about the GM crops — understanding the underlying technology, their potential benefits, and the broader concerns associated with them. Key dimensions to cover: • What are genetically modified (GM) crops, and how are GM different from genetic editing? • What is the current status of GM crop cultivation in India, and how is it regulated? • What are the benefits of GM crops? • What are the major concerns associated with GM crops? • How is Gene Modification different from Gene Editing? PYQ Insight: 📍How can biotechnology help to improve the living standards of farmers? (UPSC CSE 2019) Other important article covering the same topic: UPSC Issue at a Glance | Genetically Modified (GM) Crops and India: 4 essential questions to understand the debate 📌 Why in News? A groundbreaking new study published in the Lancet warns that antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) pathogens could kill over 39 million people by 2050. The World Health Organization also published its first-ever guidance on antibiotic pollution from manufacturing ahead of the UN General Assembly High-Level Meeting on antimicrobial resistance. In this context, understanding the threat of antimicrobial resistance from a broader perspective becomes important. Key dimensions to cover: • What is antimicrobial resistance (AMR)? • Why is AMR a global concern? • What are the key factors contributing to the rise of AMR in India? • How do superbugs evolve? • What is the impact of AMR? • What initiatives has the Government of India undertaken to combat AMR? • What initiatives have been taken on the global level to address the challenge of increasing AMR? • What steps should be taken to address the challenge of AMR in India? PYQ Insight: 📍Can overuse and free availability of antibiotics without Doctor's prescription, be contributors to the emergence of drug-resistant diseases in India? What are the available mechanisms for monitoring and control? Critically discuss the various issues involved. (UPSC CSE 2014) Other important article covering the same topic: UPSC Issue at a Glance | Antimicrobial Resistance and India 📌 Why in News? After spending 18 days on the International Space Station and orbiting around the Earth 288 times, Indian astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla and his three colleagues on the Axiom-4 mission splashed down in the Pacific Ocean on 15th July after a 20-hour journey from the International Space Station (ISS). This mission not only strengthens India's foray into human spaceflight but also showcases its growing contribution to space research through a series of significant experiments led by Shukla aboard the ISS. Key dimensions to cover: • What is the Axiom-4 mission? • What is the significance of the Axiom-4 mission for India? • What is the significance of the International Space Station (ISS)? • What is the Gaganyaan mission? • What is India's roadmap for setting up the Bharatiya Antariksha Station? • How does the Indian space sector benefit from private-sector participation? • How is Shukla's experience going to help India in future space missions? • How is India planning to exploit the space market? Other important articles covering the same topic: Knowledge Nugget: Axiom-4 mission — What you must know for UPSC Exam Knowledge Nugget | Shubhanshu Shukla returns to Earth: 10 key points for your UPSC prep 📌 Why in News? Health and government policies related to it are crucial components of the UPSC CSE syllabus. Additionally, the UPSC frequently includes questions on health and associated policies in its examinations. For example, in 2020, the UPSC asked questions about geriatric and maternal healthcare. Similarly, in 2018, there was a question regarding community-level healthcare interventions aimed at achieving 'Health for All.' In this context, knowing about the Key dimensions to cover: • What are rare diseases? • How are rare diseases classified in India? • What is the policy framework for rare diseases in India? • What challenges are faced in diagnosing and treating rare diseases? • How can India enhance its response to rare diseases? PYQ Insight: 📍Appropriate local community-level healthcare intervention is a prerequisite to achieve 'Health for All' in India. Explain. (UPSC CSE 2018) 📍'Besides being a moral imperative of a Welfare State, primary health structure is a necessary precondition for sustainable development.' Analyse. (UPSC CSE 2021) Other important articles covering the same topic: UPSC Issue at a Glance | Rare Diseases and India: 4 Key Questions You Must Know for Prelims and Mains Treatment of rare diseases: India must incentivise indigenous innovation and production Issues in the treatment of 'rare diseases', and what the govt can do 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
05-08-2025
- Politics
- Indian Express
UPSC Mains 2025 Revision Checklist : Top 15 Polity and Governance topics aspirants shouldn't miss
Are you UPSC Mains Ready? The UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination 2025 will be conducted from August 22. Every subject has its challenges, especially with the growing bank of topics they incorporate. In General Studies Paper II, the challenges seem even greater, as the vast syllabus is highly dynamic. Connecting the dots between the syllabus and current developments becomes an essential (yet exhausting) part of preparation. To make your Mains preparation journey easier, here's a checklist of important Polity and Governance current affairs topics with PYQ insights based on the syllabus of General Studies-II, to better understand why the given topic is relevant. Are they part of your revision plan yet? 📌 Why in News? In September, 2024, the Union Cabinet approved the proposal to conduct simultaneous elections in India, as a high-level committee headed by former President Ram Nath Kovind recommended. This reignited the debate over 'One Nation One Election' (ONOE). Some believe that simultaneous elections would benefit the citizens, while others argue that it would undermine the basic structure of the Constitution of India. Key dimensions to cover: • What does 'One Nation, One Election' mean? • History of simultaneous elections in India. • Recommendations of the Kovind committee. • Benefits of implementing simultaneous elections. • Challenges and concerns associated with simultaneous elections. PYQ Insight: 📍Examine the need for electoral reforms as suggested by various committees with particular reference to 'one nation – one election' principle. (UPSC CSE 2024) 📍'Simultaneous election to the Lok Sabha and the State Assemblies will limit the amount of time and money spent in electioneering but it will reduce the government's accountability to the people' Discuss. (UPSC CSE 2017) 📌 Why in News? On 1st January 2025, Niti Aayog During the 10th NITI Aayog Governing Council meeting held on May 25, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated the goal of Viksit Bharat and urged state governments to focus on sectors like manufacturing and services, tourism, and to find ways to leverage the Free Trade Agreements India is signing with several countries. NITI Aayog drives this vision forward by actively supporting states through various initiatives and mechanisms, premised on the belief that strong States make a strong nation. But how does this premier policy think tank of the Government of India advance this vision? In what ways does it foster cooperative and competitive federalism? What are the significant initiatives it has launched since its inception? Key dimensions to cover: • How does NITI Aayog reflect the principle of 'Strong States, Strong Nation' in its functioning? • What are the four broad areas under which NITI Aayog's activities are classified? • Initiatives or programmes launched by Niti Aayog to improve delivery of centrally sponsored schemes. • In what ways does NITI Aayog promote federal cooperation while maintaining competitive development among states? 📌 Why in News? An amendment to a section in the Right to Information (RTI) Act proposed by the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 restricting access to personal information about public officials has drawn criticism from the opposition, civil society groups and from within as well. The RTI Act, which came into force in October 2005, was seen as a significant development towards freedom of information. It gave ordinary citizens the right to request information from government bodies, making authorities accountable for their actions and decisions. As a result, RTI is seen as a tool for citizens' empowerment, promoting democratic participation, and improving the transparency and accountability of public officials. As RTI completes 20 year this year, it becomes important to cover this topic for exam. Key dimensions to cover: • What is RTI? • What led to the establishment of the RTI Act in 2005, and how has it influenced freedom of information in India? • Significance of RTI • RTI Amendments • How might the amendment proposed by the data protection law further affect the RTI Act's effectiveness, particularly in terms of information disclosure? • What challenges or limitations does the RTI Act face in ensuring full transparency and accountability? PYQ Insight: 📍The Right to Information Act is not all about citizens' empowerment alone, it essentially redefines the concept of accountability.' Discuss. (UPSC CSE 2018) 📌 Why in News? The Emergency was imposed 50 years ago on June 25, 1975. The 21-month period that followed was marked by the suspension of civil liberties, curtailment of press freedom, mass arrests, cancellation of elections, and rule by decree. Thus, it becomes important to cover this topic for mains exam. Key dimensions to cover: • What is meant by 'the Emergency' in modern Indian political history and what does the Constitution say about emergencies? • How many types of emergencies are recognised by the Indian Constitution? • Historical & social context that led to the proclamation of the National Emergency in 1975? • What were the major constitutional implications during and post-1975 National Emergency? • Constitutional lessons from the 1975 national emergency? PYQ Insight: Revisiting different types of emergency provisions under the Constitution UPSC has previously asked questions on financial emergencies and President's Rule; the 50th anniversary of the 1975 Emergency makes national emergency a probable area for GS Paper-II. 📍Account for the legal and political factors responsible for the reduced frequency of using Article 356 by the Union Governments since mid-1990s. (UPSC CSE 2023) 📍Under what circumstances can the Financial Emergency be proclaimed by the President of India? What consequences follow when such a declaration remains in force? (UPSC CSE 2018) 📌 Why in News? The government has formally announced that the 16th Census of India will take place in two phases, with the reference dates set as March 1, 2027, for most of the country and October 1, 2026, for snow-bound and remote regions such as Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. This census marks a significant milestone: it will include the first nationwide caste enumeration since 1931. Notification under Section 3 of the Census Act, 1948, came out in the Gazette on June 16 with house-listing and housing enumeration running for several months before the population count begins in early 2027. This Census is connected to two significant outcomes: the delimitation of Parliamentary constituencies, which has been on hold for the last fifty years, and the implementation of women's reservation in Parliament. Key dimensions to cover: • What is the census? Why does the census matter? • How has the census evolved historically in India? • How is the census conducted in India? • How will the 16th Census be different from the 2011 Census? • Census' importance for the economy and policymaking. • What is delimitation? • How are census data and delimitation related? • History of delimitation in India • How does the process of delimitation work? • Is the Delimitation Commission's decision beyond judicial review? • Why is delimitation needed? PYQ Insight: The topics of census and delimitation are relevant for the UPSC CSE as they pertain to governance, population dynamics, and electoral processes. Additionally, UPSC has previously asked questions on delimitation multiple times in prelims; thus, it becomes essential to cover this topic for mains. 📌 Why in News? The Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs (CCPA) on April 30 approved the inclusion of caste data in the upcoming population census. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw made the announcement, underscoring the constitutional framework that makes Census a Union subject. The move revives a long-standing debate over caste-based enumeration and its use in governance, policy, and politics. In this context, it becomes essential for aspirants to understand caste and census from a broader perspective. Key dimensions to cover: • What is caste? • What is the historical basis of caste in India? • What is the history of caste census in India? • What are the potential benefits and issues associated with a caste census? 📌 Why in News? On December 10, 2024, the Opposition submitted a notice for a motion of no confidence against Rajya Sabha Chairperson Jagdeep Dhankhar. It was the first time that a no-confidence motion was present against a vice president in India's parliamentary history. Although the motion was not passed, still it becomes important to know about the office of Vice President of India. Key dimensions to cover: • What are the constitutional provisions regarding the office of the Vice-President of India? • How is the Vice-President of India elected? • What are the powers and functions of the Vice-President of India, especially as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha? • What is the procedure for the removal of the Vice-President of India? • Is there any precedent of a no-confidence resolution being moved against the Rajya Sabha Chairman? PYQ Insight: The Office of the Vice-President holds significance for the UPSC CSE as it is an important constitutional position. Previously, UPSC has asked questions related to this topic. 📍Discuss the role of the Vice-President of India as the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. (UPSC CSE 2022) 📌 Why in News? The election of Om Birla as the Speaker of the 18th Lok Sabha drawn attention to the different aspects of the office of the Speaker in our parliamentary democracy. In this context, it is important to understand the office of the Speaker in Lok Sabha from a broader perspective. Notably, the presiding officer of India's Lower House of Parliament, the Lok Sabha Speaker, is the constitutional and ceremonial head of the House. Key dimensions to cover: • What are the constitutional mandates related to the Speaker? • How is the Speaker elected? • What are the roles and powers of the Speaker? • Is a speaker always a speaker? • Why should the speaker rise above party loyalties and be 'neutral'? PYQ Insight: 📍'Once a Speaker, Always a Speaker'! Do you think this practice should be adopted to impart objectivity to the office of the Speaker of Lok Sabha? What could be its implications for the robust functioning of parliamentary business in India? (UPSC CSE 2020) The Election Commission of India (ECI) plays a crucial role in ensuring transparent, free and fair elections. But what is the ECI, how did it come into existence and evolve? What is the composition and responsibilities of the body? Most importantly, what does the Constitution say about it? As ECI is an important topic of UPSC CSE syllabus covering it for Mains becomes important. Key dimensions to cover: • Discuss the functions of the Election Commission of India? • How does the Election Commission of India manage the election process? • Evaluate the functions of the Election Commission of India in the light of the Model Code of Conduct. • What do you understand by the delimitation? Discuss the constitutional provisions which deal with it? • What are the challenges for the Election Commission of India in conducting elections and how should it deal with them? PYQ Insight: 📍Discuss the role of the Election Commission of India in the light of the evolution of the Model Code of Conduct. (2022) 📌 Why in News? There are numerous examples available in the history of Parliament and State Assemblies where Members of Parliament (MPs) or Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) have changed their party. These activities led to the frequent falling of governments. In this context, it is important to cover this topic. Key dimensions to cover: • What is the anti-defection law? What are its major features? • How effective it is. Is there a need to reform the law? • Anti-defection law and nominated members • Process of disqualification • Three-test formula of the Supreme Court • Limitations of the anti-defection law • Major recommendations of various committees on reforming the anti-defection law. PYQ Insight: 📍The role of individual MPs (Members of Parliament) has diminished over the years and as a result healthy constructive debates on policy issues are not usually witnessed. How far can this be attributed to the anti-defection law which was legislated but with a different intention? (UPSC CSE 2013) 📌 Why in News? The Supreme Court recently reprimanded the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for 'crossing all limits' and 'violating the federal structure' by conducting raids on government-run liquor retailer Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (TASMAC). Chief Justice of India (CJI) B R Gavai described the central agency's actions against the State corporation as a violation of the Constitution's federal structure. Notably, the TASMAC case is not the first time the apex court has pulled up the ED. Earlier this month, the Court criticised the body for making 'allegations without any reference to anything' in a liquor scam case in Chhattisgarh. In another case in Chhattisgarh, it had called out the agency for paying scant heed to the 'fundamental rights of the accused'. These developments warrant revisiting the formation and evolution of India's economic intelligence agency, and its role in enforcing economic laws and combating financial crimes. Key dimensions to cover: • Evolution of India's economic intelligence agency • Mandate to enforce laws • ED's power and federal structure • Concerns over operational independence • Key laws enforced by the Enforcement Directorate. • How does the Enforcement Directorate's role intersect with federal principles enshrined in the Indian Constitution? • What is the significance of the Enforcement Directorate's powers to attach and confiscate property under different laws like PMLA, FEMA, and FEOA? 📌 Why in News? As India remains committed to achieving the goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047, efforts to strengthen governance through collaborative federalism and technological integration have acquired greater momentum. In this pursuit, e-governance has emerged as an effective tool as it helps promote transparency, efficiency, and citizen-centric service delivery through digital tools. Key dimensions to cover: • What is e-governance? • Evolution of e-governance • Principles of e-governance • Describe its four pillars of e-governance evaluating how they interact to make governance more efficient. • E-governance: benefits and challenges • E-governance has the potential to bridge the gap between the state and society. Evaluate in the context of rural-urban digital divides. • How far has e-governance addressed the issue of corruption and inefficiency in Indian public administration? Explain with examples. • Evaluate the role of initiatives like Digital India, UMANG, and BharatNet in enhancing the reach and effectiveness of e-governance. • How does the emphasis on governance and best practices during recent meetings such as NDA conclaves reflect the growing importance of e-governance in India's development model? 📌 Why in News? Recognising the significant role of panchayats in local governance, the government on April 9 launched the Panchayat Advancement Index (PAI) – 'a key metric for assessing progress at the grassroots level and aiding in the formulation of localised strategies and targets for inclusive rural development'. Additionally, the 2024 index published by the Union Ministry of Panchayati Raj and the effort towards addressing the practice of 'Pradhan Pati' or 'Mukhiya Pati' speaks volumes about the significance attached to the Panchayat Raj Institutions in strengthening an inclusive grassroots governance. Key dimensions to cover: • Evolution of Panchayati Raj Institutions • Evaluating local governance. • What were the earliest references to local self-governance? How did colonial administrative reforms, such as Lord Mayo's resolution of 1870, shape the early structure of village governance? • The 73rd and 74th amendment to the Constitution. • How does the Ministry of Panchayati Raj assess the performance of these institutions across different states? What are the core dimensions of the Panchayat Devolution Index, and how has it evolved since its inception in 2004? • How does the e-Gram Swaraj application aim to improve Panchayat functioning? • Despite constitutional backing and digital interventions, why do Panchayati Raj Institutions still struggle with financial autonomy and transparency? Suggest the way forward. • Urban local bodies. Devolution of powers to urban local bodies. • Significance of empowering local bodies for effective urban governance in India. • How did the introduction of the 74th Constitutional Amendment Act (1992) change urban governance in India? • Key challenges faced by urban local bodies. What steps can be taken to further empower these local bodies to address complex urban challenges? • How can municipal governance reforms help cities respond more effectively to urban challenges? PYQ Insight: 📍To what extent, in your opinion, has the decentralisation of power in India changed the governance landscape at the grassroots? (UPSC CSE 2022) 📍Assess the importance of the Panchayat system in India as a part of local government. Apart from government grants, what sources can the Panchayats look out for financing developmental projects? (UPSC CSE 2018) 📌 Why in News? The Supreme Court in March sought the Centre's response on a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging the current practice of appointing the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) – India's apex audit body. The PIL argues that the existing executive-controlled process violates the Constitution and seeks an independent selection committee for appointing CAG. This comes amid recent CAG reports, such as on the now-scrapped Delhi excise policy and on the Functioning of Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA), which have highlighted irregularities in public fund management and led to debates about the CAG's independence and its relationship with the executive branch. Key dimensions to cover: • Which constitutional article governs the appointment of the CAG, and how does the PIL regarding the appointment of the CAG argue that the current process violates it? • Constitutional Provisions related to the duties, and audit reports of the auditor general. • CAG as a key pillar of financial administration. • Why have concerns about political or executive influence over CAG appointments been raised? What could be possible ways to address this? • What are the main criticisms of CAG? • Why is the CAG remains a crucial institution? • How to address tensions between CAG and the executive? PYQ Insight: 📍'The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) has a very vital role to play.' Explain how this is reflected in the method and terms of his appointment as well as the range of powers he can exercise. (UPSC CSE 2018) 📍Exercise of CAG's powers in relation to the accounts of the Union and the States is derived from Article 149 of the Indian Constitution. Discuss whether audit of the Government's policy implementation could amount to overstepping its own (CAG) jurisdiction.(UPSC CSE 2016) 📌 Why in News? On October 21, Sonam Wangchuk, a Ladakh-based activist, ended his indefinite fast after receiving a letter from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs regarding future discussions on the administration of the Union Territory. Wangchuk and other activists are advocating for increased autonomy in Ladakh's governance. Their demand for greater autonomy is an example of regionalism, where specific regions seek to assert their identities, governance structures, and resources. Moreover, the recent discussions on One Nation, One Election have further resurfaced debates about regionalism, highlighting the necessity of finding a balance between national unity and regional aspirations. Key dimensions to cover: • What is regionalism? What has been the basis for it in pre- and post-independent India? • Causes and types of regionalism. • Difference between regionalism and nationalism. • Regionalism in post-independent India • How do cultural, ethnic, religious, or linguistic identities influence regionalist aspirations in India? • Constitution and regionalism • How did the concept of regionalism evolve in India following independence, particularly in relation to linguistic identity? • Impacts of regionalism. PYQ Insight: 📍Do you agree that regionalism in India appears to be a consequence of rising cultural assertiveness? Argue. (UPSC CSE 2020) 📍What is the basis of regionalism? Is it that unequal distribution of benefits of development on regional basis eventually promotes regionalism? Substantiate your answer. (UPSC CSE 2020) 📍Growing feeling of regionalism is an important factor in the generation of demand for a separate state. Discuss. (UPSC CSE 2013) 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 Roshni Yadav is a Deputy Copy Editor with The Indian Express. She is an alumna of the University of Delhi and Jawaharlal Nehru University, where she pursued her graduation and post-graduation in Political Science. She has over five years of work experience in ed-tech and media. At The Indian Express, she writes for the UPSC section. Her interests lie in national and international affairs, governance, economy, and social issues. You can contact her via email: ... Read More
