Geography Optional: Is It Still a Safe Bet in UPSC 2025?
Geography Optional: Is It Still a Safe Bet in UPSC 2025? Choosing the right optional subject for the UPSC Civil Services Exam is one of the most important decisions for every aspirant. Among all the options, Geography optional for UPSC has remained a popular and safe choice for many years. But in 2025, with changing trends in UPSC exams, many students are asking — Is Geography still a good optional subject? Is it still scoring? Will it help in clearing UPSC Mains? In this blog, Civils360, the best IAS coaching in Trivandrum, Kerala, helps you understand whether Geography optional is still the right choice in 2025. We will look at its advantages, challenges, scoring trends, and tips to prepare well. If you are confused about choosing an optional subject, this guide will help you make an informed decision. Why is Geography Optional Popular Among IAS Aspirants? Overlapping Syllabus with GS Papers Geography topics overlap with GS Paper 1 (Physical and Human Geography), GS Paper 3 (Disaster Management, Environment), and even Prelims. This makes it a time-efficient subject. Scientific and Conceptual Nature Geography is both scientific and analytical. If you enjoy understanding processes, maps, data interpretation, and cause-effect relationships, this optional suits you. Availability of Resources There’s no dearth of coaching material, books (like GC Leong, Savindra Singh), toppers’ notes, and answer keys for Geography optional. Objective Style Questions Many questions in Geography are straightforward and fact-based, reducing subjectivity in marking. Is Geography Still Scoring in UPSC 2025? Recent trends from UPSC Mains 2022, 2023, and 2024 show moderate to high marks in Geography optional for well-prepared candidates. Some key observations: Candidates scoring 280+ out of 500 in optional have consistently made it to the final list. Paper II, dealing with Indian Geography, continues to offer high-scoring potential if maps and current affairs are integrated properly. With proper answer writing practice, diagrams, and data presentation, Geography remains a safe and stable optional. However, the margin for error has reduced. Generic answers or template-based content may not help in 2025. Who Should Choose Geography Optional for UPSC? The Geography optional is ideal for: ✅ Candidates with a science, engineering, or geography background✅ Those with good map-reading and visual presentation skills✅ Aspirants preparing with top coaching support like Civils360 in Trivandrum✅ Candidates who prefer concept clarity over rote learning Challenges with Geography Optional in 2025 Paper II needs frequent updates with current affairs (rivers, infrastructure, agriculture, etc.) Syllabus is vast – aspirants must balance factual, conceptual, and analytical dimensions Writing practice is essential – just studying content won’t help without improving presentation Syllabus Overview for Geography Optional Paper I – Principles of Geography Physical Geography: Geomorphology, Climatology, Oceanography Human Geography: Perspectives, Models, Population, Settlements Paper II – Geography of India Physical Settings, Resources, Agriculture, Industry Transport, Trade, Cultural Settings, Planning Contemporary Issues: River linking, Urbanization, Migration, etc. Best Books for Geography Optional for UPSC 2025 Paper I: Physical Geography – Savindra Singh Human Geography – Majid Husain Models and Theories – Majid Husain GC Leong (for basics) Paper II: India: A Comprehensive Geography – D.R. Khullar NCERTs (Class 11 & 12) Economic Survey and Yojana for current updates Civils360 Strategy for Geography Optional in 2025 At Civils360 – the best IAS coaching in Trivandrum, Kerala, we offer a structured Geography Optional program that includes: Detailed classes with updated content Personalized mentorship and weekly tests Answer writing sessions with diagram practice PYQ (Previous Year Questions) analysis and model answers Integration with current affairs, map-marking, and value addition notes Final Verdict: Is Geography Optional Safe in 2025? Yes, Geography optional for UPSC is still a reliable and scoring subject if approached with the right strategy. With coaching support from institutes like Civils360, the right resources, and consistent writing practice, you can definitely make Geography a strong pillar of your UPSC success.
March 2025 Current Affairs Recap for IAS Aspirants | Civils360
March 2025 Current Affairs Recap for IAS Aspirants | Civils360 At Civils360, widely regarded as the best IAS coaching in Trivandrum, Kerala, we understand the importance of staying updated with current events. However, we also know that keeping up with the daily news can be difficult during intensive UPSC preparation. That’s why we bring you this comprehensive March 2025 current affairs recap, covering all the key events relevant to the UPSC Civil Services Exam—categorized to match the GS syllabus. Whether you missed your newspaper or need a quick monthly revision, this blog has you covered. National News Legislative Developments The Parliament’s Budget Session saw heated debates over key issues, especially regarding the proposed Muslim reservation, reflecting ongoing discourse on social justice and minority rights. The Union Government approved a ₹23,000 crore plan for the electronics sector, expected to create around 92,000 jobs, showing India’s continued push for domestic manufacturing. A five-year ban was imposed on Awami Action Committee (led by Mirwaiz) and J&K Ittihadul Muslimeen, signaling security concerns and evolving political dynamics in Jammu and Kashmir. Judiciary The Supreme Court stayed an Allahabad High Court order related to the attempted rape of a minor, reaffirming the apex court’s role in crucial judicial interventions. Allegations surfaced about cash discovered at the residence of a Delhi High Court judge, prompting the Chief Justice of India to question the security protocols—raising issues of judicial transparency and accountability. Social Issues A disturbing case in Gujarat involved around 40 primary school students injuring themselves, reportedly after being influenced by a video game. This raised serious concerns about online safety and child psychology. The Waqf Board remained in the spotlight with allegations of property misuse, prompting calls for a nationwide survey to ensure proper documentation and benefits to underprivileged Muslims Economy and Trade Maruti Suzuki recorded its highest-ever sales in FY24–25, driven by strong demand for utility vehicles. India and the US announced plans to increase bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030, reinforcing strategic and economic ties. Education A Jaipur school issued a controversial ‘No Holi’ notice, which received backlash from the Rajasthan Education Minister—highlighting debates around cultural expression in educational institutions Environment and Disaster A massive earthquake (7.7 magnitude) struck Mandalay, Myanmar, on March 28, leading to a tragic loss of lives and affecting several neighboring regions. This event underscores the need for disaster preparedness and regional cooperation International Relations India–China An Indian official met China’s Assistant Foreign Minister after the WMCC (Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination) talks—signaling ongoing dialogue over border tensions. South Africa South Africa returned valuable artifacts belonging to Mahatma Gandhi, strengthening cultural ties with India. Global Events Gaza witnessed renewed violence, with medics and UN staff killed, drawing sharp criticism from international communities and humanitarian organizations. The Paris Climate Agreement marked its 10th anniversary, bringing fresh calls for urgent climate action. Student protests broke out in Serbia, while the US stock market experienced sharp swings amid tariff-related concerns—both of which reflect the volatile global political and economic climate. Important Days in March 2025 IAS aspirants should take note of the following observances for possible essay or prelims questions: March 1 – Zero Discrimination Day, Self-Injury Awareness Day March 3 – World Wildlife Day March 4 – National Safety Day, Ramakrishna Jayanti March 8 – International Women’s Day March 12 – No Smoking Day (Second Wednesday of March) March 14 – Pi Day, Holi, International Day of Action for Rivers March 15 – World Consumer Rights Day March 16 – National Vaccination Day March 20 – International Day of Happiness, Hindi New Year March 21 – World Poetry Day, World Forestry Day March 22 – World Water Day, Bihar Diwas March 23 – Martyr’s Day, World Meteorological Day March 24 – World Tuberculosis Day, Holika Dahan March 25 – International Day of the Unborn Child, Holi March 27 – World Theatre Day March 29 – Good Friday March 31 – Eid-ul-Fitr Keeping up with current affairs is crucial for cracking both Prelims and Mains in the UPSC exam. This monthly news recap by Civils360, the best IAS coaching institute in Trivandrum, Kerala, is designed to save you time while ensuring you’re not missing any important developments.
How to Start UPSC Preparation from Zero Level or Scratch?
How to Start UPSC Preparation from Zero Level or Scratch? Preparing for the UPSC Civils Services Examination (CSE) from scratch can feel overwhelming, but with the right strategy, guidance, and perseverance, success is within reach. UPSC is one of the toughest competitive exams in India, requiring a well-structured plan and commitment. Whether you are a beginner or transitioning from another field, this guide will help you start your UPSC journey effectively. If you are looking for the best IAS coaching in Trivandrum, Civils360 offers a comprehensive program designed to support aspirants at every stage of preparation. Understanding the UPSC Exam Structure Before starting your UPSC preparation, it’s crucial to understand the exam pattern and stages involved: The exam is conducted in three stages: Preliminary Examination (Prelims): This stage consists of two objective-type papers – General Studies Paper I and CSAT (Civils Services Aptitude Test). The marks in Paper I determine qualification for the Mains, while Paper II (CSAT) is a qualifying paper (33% passing marks required). Mains Examination (Mains): The second stage consists of nine descriptive papers, including an Essay paper, General Studies papers, an Optional subject, and two qualifying language papers. Personality Test (Interview): The final round assesses your personality, analytical ability, and decision-making skills. Understanding this structure helps aspirants tailor their preparation accordingly. Civils360, a reputed civils service coaching center in Trivandrum, provides expert guidance for each stage to ensure comprehensive preparation. Tips to Prepare for UPSC from Zero Level 1. Understand the Exam Pattern and Syllabus One of the first steps is to get familiar with the UPSC CSE syllabus. Knowing what to study and how to approach each subject will help you plan effectively. Civils360 offers a Foundation Course for UPSC, which covers the entire syllabus comprehensively. Explore our UPSC Foundation Course. 2. Build a Study Plan A. Allocate Time for Each Subject A well-balanced plan should cover all major subjects of the UPSC syllabus. Ideally, divide your study hours into the following categories: General Studies (GS) – The backbone of the UPSC syllabus, GS should be studied daily, covering subjects like History, Geography, Polity, Economy, Environment, and Science & Technology. Current Affairs – Dedicate at least an hour daily to reading newspapers like The Hindu or Indian Express, along with monthly compilations from credible sources. CSAT (Civils Services Aptitude Test) – While CSAT is qualifying in nature, regular practice of comprehension, logical reasoning, and basic numeracy is essential. Optional Subject – Your optional subject plays a significant role in your Mains score. Allocate focused hours to study and practice answer writing. Essay & Ethics Preparation – These subjects require regular writing practice to enhance articulation and analytical skills. Mock Tests & Answer Writing Practice – Incorporate daily answer writing and weekly mock tests into your schedule to refine your exam-taking strategy. B. Create a Daily, Weekly, and Monthly Plan Breaking down your preparation into different timeframes ensures you stay on track: Daily Goals: Cover one major subject + current affairs + CSAT practice (if needed) + answer writing. Weekly Goals: Revise the topics studied throughout the week, attempt sectional tests, and analyze mistakes. Monthly Goals: Complete a set number of syllabus topics, revise previous months’ subjects, and attempt full-length mock tests. C. Time Management Techniques Use the Pomodoro Technique (25 minutes of study, 5 minutes break) to stay focused. Allocate morning hours for difficult subjects and evening hours for revision. Use a planner or digital app to track your progress. D. Be Flexible & Adapt Your Strategy Your study plan should be dynamic. If you struggle with a subject, dedicate more time to it. If you grasp something quickly, use the extra time for revision. Monitor your progress weekly and adjust accordingly. E. Balance Between Self-Study & Coaching If you are enrolled in a coaching institute like Civils360, synchronize your personal study plan with their classes and test series. Coaching provides expert guidance, structured study material, and regular assessments, making your preparation more effective. With a well-structured plan and consistent efforts, clearing UPSC becomes a more achievable goal. Stick to your plan, stay disciplined, and keep revising regularly! 3. Start with NCERTs – The Foundation of UPSC Preparation For beginners, NCERT books from Class 6 to 12 serve as the building blocks of UPSC preparation. These books provide clear, concise, and reliable information, helping aspirants develop a strong conceptual base before moving on to advanced reference materials. Which NCERT Books to Read for UPSC? History: Class 6-8 Social Science (Our Past – I, II, III) – Basics of Ancient to Modern History Class 11 Themes in World History – Important for understanding global historical developments Class 12 Themes in Indian History Part I, II, III – Covers Ancient, Medieval, and Modern Indian History in depth Geography: Class 6-10 Social Science (Geography) – Basics of Physical, Human, and Economic Geography Class 11 Fundamentals of Physical Geography & India – Physical Environment – Covers landforms, climate, and natural resources Class 12 India – People and Economy & Fundamentals of Human Geography – Covers economic and human geography Polity: Class 9-10 Democratic Politics I & II – Basics of Indian Constitution and Democracy Class 11 Indian Constitution at Work – Detailed explanation of fundamental rights, duties, and governance Class 12 Politics in India Since Independence – Important for understanding political developments Economy: Class 9-10 Economics – Introduction to economic concepts like GDP, inflation, and banking Class 11 Indian Economic Development – Covers post-independence economic policies Class 12 Macroeconomics & Microeconomics – Helps in understanding economic theories Science & Environment: Class 6-10 Science NCERTs – Covers the basics of Physics, Chemistry, and Biology Class 11-12 Biology (Selective Chapters) – Important for Environment & Ecology topics Class 12 Chemistry (Environmental Chemistry) – Covers pollution and environmental concerns How to Read NCERTs Effectively for UPSC? Follow a Subject-Wise Approach: Instead of reading the NCERTs class-wise, focus on one subject at a time for better continuity. Make Short Notes: Highlight key points and create handwritten notes to help with revision. Link
UPSC 2021 Mains Essay Question Paper
UPSC 2021 Mains Essay Question Essay writing is a crucial topic, from an exam point of view. While you can read and learn about the various disciplines and topics, it is hard to develop a good style of writing merely by reading books. Thus, writing practice has its own importance, that flows through each and every paper, that needs descriptive answers. UPSC 2021 Mains Essay Question Write TWO Essays, choosing ONE from each of the Sections A and B, in about 1000-1200 words each. (125×2-250) Section A The process of self-discovery has now been technologically outsourced. Your perception of me is a reflection of you; my reaction to you is an awareness of me. Philosophy of wantlessness is Utopian, while materialism is a chimera. The real is rational and the rational is real. Section B Hand that rocks the cradle rules the world. What is research, but a blind date with knowledge! History repeats itself, first as a tragedy, second as a farce. There are better practices to “best practices”. Download PDF UPSC CSE 2021 Mains Essay Question Paper
Process and Techniques of Decision Making
Process and Techniques of Decision Making Decision-Making is the heart of modern administration. According to Simon, administration is decision making. Decision making is a process of selection from a set of alternative courses of action which is thought to fulfill the objectives of the decision problem more satisfactorily than others In the words of Peter F. Drucker, “Whatever a manager does, he does through decision making.” Decision making is important for organizational effectiveness because of its central role in the overall process of directing and controlling the behavior of organizational members. Features of Decision Making It is a goal-oriented process. It implies a set of alternatives. It is a dynamic process. It is always related to the environment. It is a continuous or ongoing process. It is an intellectual or rational process. Types Of Decision Making Organizational and Personal Decisions: Organizational decisions are made to advance the interests of the organization. When an executive acts formally in his expected role in an organization, he makes organizational decisions which become the organization’s official decisions.Personal decisions are made by an executive as an individual and not as a part of an organization. An executive who changes jobs or organizations is making a personal decision. Individual and Group Decisions:When a decision is taken by an individual in the organization, it is known as an individual decision. These are concerned mainly with routine problems for which broad policies are available. Group decisions are those taken by a group of persons constituted for this purpose. Decisions taken by the board of directors or a committee are examples of group decisions. Routine and Strategic Decisions:Routine decisions are made repetitively following certain established rules, procedures and policies. They do not require collection of new data and can be taken without much deliberation. Strategic or basic decisions, on the other hand, are more important and are generally taken by the top management of organizations. They relate to policy matters and so require a thorough fact finding and analysis of the possible alternatives. Programmed and Non Programmed Decisions:Programmed decisions are concerned with relatively routine and repetitive problems. Information on these problems is already available and can be processed in a pre-planned manner. Such decisions have short-term impact and are relatively simple. Nonprogrammed decisions deal with unique or unusual problems. Such novel or non-repetitive problems cannot be tackled in a predetermined manner. There are no cut-and-dried solutions or readymade answers for such problems. Therefore, a high degree of executive judgment and deliberation is required to solve them. Policy and Operative Decisions:Policy decisions are of vital importance and are taken by the top management. They affect the entire organization. But operating decisions are taken by the lower management in order to put into action the policy decisions. For instance, the bonus issue is a policy matter which is to be decided by the top management and calculation of bonus is an operating decision which is taken at the lower levels. Read Also Henry Fayol – Administrative Theory Decision Making Process A decision is generally not taken in isolation as it is affected by previous behavior as well as by consequences anticipated in the future. It is therefore necessary to understand Decision-Making as a process as the question of final selection of choice from alternatives should not result in false emphasis ignoring the lengthy complex process which precedes that final choice. The Decision-Making process can be divided as shown Defining the problem: The process begins with the recognition of a problem that requires a decision. Clear definition is critical as the right answer can be found with the right questions. Analyzing the problem and Gathering Information: The analysis of a problem even classifies the problem. Classification is necessary inorder to know who should set the decision and who should be consulted in making it.The problem should be classified in view the following guidelines : The nature of the decision problem, i.e Whether it is strategic or it is routine; The impact of the decision; The periodicity of decision; The futurity of the decision; The limiting or strategic factor relevant to decision. Developing Alternative Solutions:Developing alternative solutions to the problem is a very important step in the decision making process. The finding of alternative solutions helps to Choose best decision, after a careful evaluation of the most desirable course of action in the situation. Of course, even after ascertaining alternative solutions, an executive can make a mistake in making the decision or in his final choice. Whilst considering alternative solutions, a good principle to observe is to ask, “What could be the consequences if no action at all is taken?”. Selecting the Best Solution :In order to choose the best alternative, one will have to evaluate the available alternatives. There are various ways to evaluate alternatives. The most common method is through intuition i.e., choosing a solution that seems to be a good idea at that time. There is an inherent danger in this process because an executive’s action may be wrong on certain occasions. A second way to choose the best alternative Aweigh the consequences of one against those of the other. Peter Drucker has laid down four criteria in order to evaluate the consequences of various alternatives. Risk: Executie Weighs the risks of each course of action. Economy of effort: Benefit of the course of action Timing: Checks whether the situation demands the course of action Limitation of resources Converting the decision into Effective Action : After a solution has been sealed applying the above criteria, steps must be taken to translate it into effective action. A decision should be presented to the people who are to take part in its execution, in language they can understand. The working group should be given the opportunity to participate in the decision making process, preferably at the stage of developing alternatives. This can help improve the quality of the final decision by revealing points which may have been overlooked by the executive and uncovering obstacles in the way of its execution. Such participation
UPSC IAS Prelims 2020 CSAT Paper 2 Question Paper with Answer Key
UPSC Prelims 2020 CSAT Paper 2 Download
UPSC Prelims Mock Test 8 – GS Paper 1
UPSC Prelims Mock Test Series 8 – GS Paper 1 Check All Prelims Mock Questions 1. The Union executive consists of which of the following offices?1.President2.Prime minister3.Governor4.Council of MinistersSelect the correct answer using the code given below(a) 1, 2 , 3 and 4(b) 1, 2 and 3 only(c) 2 and 3 only(d) 1, 2 and 4 only 2. Consider the following statements regarding the functions of Governor1.As the nominee of the Central Government, the Governor acts according to the aid and advice of the Central government.2.The Governor works as a channel of communication between the Centre and State governments.Select the correct answer using the following codes:(a) 1 only(b) 2 only(c) Both 1 and 2(d) Neither 1 nor 2 3.The term “Graded Surveillance Measure” is related to: (a) Surveillance on the securities that has abnormal price rise in the capital market(b) Strategy developed to bring down the air pollution levels in major cities of India(c) Comprehensive system for effective policing through e- Governance.(d)An online tool to measure the progress in learning outcomes for students in secondary education. 4.Identify the parliamentary privileges that is/are guaranteed under the constitution:1.Freedom of speech in parliament2.Right of publication of parliamentary proceedings3.Right to punish for contempt of courtSelect the correct answer using the code given below:(a)1 and 3 only(b)1 and 2 only(c)2 and 3 only(d)1, 2 and 3 5. Consider the following statements:1.Central Government can declare a whole state as a disturbed area under the powers conferred by the Armed Forces Special Powers Act.2.The Act empowers security forces to arrest anyone without prior notice.Which of the following statements is/are correct?(a)1 only(b)2 only(c)Both 1 and 2(d)Neither 1 nor 2 6.Consider the following statements regarding censure motion:1.It can be moved against an individual minister only.2.It should state the reasons for its adoption in Lok sabha.3.If it is passed in the Lok Sabha, the council of ministers need not resign from the office. Which of the following statements given above is/are not correct?(a)1 only(b)2 only(c)1 and 3 only(d)1, 2 and 3 7.Consider the following statements:1.Non tax revenues account for almost 60% of the total revenue receipts in India.2.Government can further increase the non tax revenue by the sale of lands under Public Sector Units, disinvestment.Which of the following statements is/are correct?(a)1 only(b)2 only(c)Both 1 and 2(d)Neither 1 nor 2 8.Consider the following statements1.The Governor of a state is appointed by the President by warrant under his hand and seal.2.To be appointed as Governor, a person should be at least 30 years old.3.When a Governor discharges the responsibilities of more than one state, he/she should act on the advice of the council of ministers of the respective states.Select the correct statements using the code given below:(a) 1 and 3 only(b) 2 and 3 only(c)1 and 2 only(d)1,2 and 3 9.Consider the following statements with reference to statutory grants given under article 275: 1.Statutory grants are given to the states on the recommendation of the finance commission.2.They are given by the Parliament to the states which are in need of financial assistance and not to every state.Which of the following statements given above is /are correct?(a) 1 only(b) 2 only(c) Both 1 and 2(d) Neither 1 nor 2 10. Consider the statements regarding private member bill.1.It is a bill introduced by any member of parliament who is not a minister2.Its introduction in the house requires one month notice3.It is drafted by the concerned department based on the request forwarded by the private member.Which of the following statements given above is /are correct?(a) 1 only(b) 1 and 2 only(c) 2 and 3 only(d) 1, 2 and 3 11. Which of the following statements is not true regarding the condition of Governor’s office? (a) The Governor cannot hold any other office of profit during the term of his offices.(b) The Governor is entitled to such emoluments, allowances and privileges as may be determined by the Parliament.(c) Where the same person is appointed Governor of two or more States, his emoluments are allocated amongst the States in such proportion as the Parliament may determine.(d) The Governor shall not be an MP or MLA at the time of appointment 12. Which of the following crops has/have the benefits under Minimum Support Price?1.Bajra2.Urad3.Tur Dal4.RubberSelect the correct answer using the code given below:(a)1,2 and 3 only(b)2,3 and 4 only(c)1,3 and 4 only(d) 1,2,3 and 4 13. The work and conduct of the Speaker cannot be discussed and criticized in the Lok sabha except on which of the following motion?(a)Substantive motion(b)Substitute motion(c)Subsidiary motion(d)Privilege motion 14. Consider the statements regarding National Manufacturing Competitiveness Programme (NMCP):1. The main objective of the NMCP is to enhance the global competitiveness of Large Scale Industries of India.2. Lean Manufacturing Competitiveness Scheme is one of the major components of the NMCP.Which of the above statements is/are true?(a) 1 only(b) 2 only(c) Both 1 and 2(d) Neither 1 nor 2 15. Which of the following statements is/are true regarding the immunities enjoyed by the Governor1.Governor shall not be answerable to any Court for the exercise and performance of the powers and duties of his office2.No criminal proceedings can be instituted or continued in any court against a Governor during his term of officeChoose the correct answer from the options given below(a) 1 only(b) 2 only(c) Both 1 and 2(d) Neither 1 nor 2 16. With reference to the Goods and Services Tax, consider the following statements:1. The monthly GST collection has steadily increased over the last year.2. Once taxes are fixed, tax rate rationalisation is not possible for the goods under GST.Which of the above statements is/are correct?(a) 1 only(b) 2 only(c) Both 1 and 2(d) Neither 1 nor 2 17. Consider the following statements regarding the Prime Minister of India.1.He can bring about the collapse of the council of ministers by resigning from office.2.He advises the president with regard to summoning and proroguing of the sessions of the parliament.3.He assists the president in the allocation and shuffling of various portfolios among the ministers.Which of the following statements given above is /are correct?(a) 1 only(b) 2 and 3 only(c) 1 and
How to Prepare for the Civil Service Exam While Working a 9 a.m.–7 p.m. Job?
How to Prepare for the Civil Service Exam While Working a 9 a.m.–7 p.m. Job? Preparing for the UPSC Civil Services Examination while managing a demanding full-time job is undoubtedly a challenging task. However, with the right strategy, time management, and dedication, many working professionals have successfully cleared this prestigious exam. If you are someone juggling a 9 a.m.–7 p.m. job but still aspire to crack the UPSC exam, here’s how you can make it happen. 1. Create a Realistic Study Plan Your study plan should be practical and achievable. Since your working hours are fixed, utilize early mornings, late evenings, and weekends effectively. Break down the syllabus into manageable sections and set daily, weekly, and monthly goals. Suggested Study Timings: Morning: 6:00 a.m. – 8:00 a.m. (Concept building, newspaper reading) Evening: 8:00 p.m. – 10:30 p.m. (Revision, answer writing practice) Weekends: 6-8 hours of dedicated study (Mock tests, in-depth study, optional subject focus) 2. Leverage Smart Study Techniques Use Digital Resources: Make use of UPSC preparation apps, YouTube lectures, and online courses to learn on the go. Listen to Podcasts: Utilize commute time to listen to news analysis, debates, and relevant discussions. Follow a newspaper wisely: Stick to one reliable newspaper (The Hindu or Indian Express) and focus on editorials, government policies, and current affairs. Make Notes Smartly: Note down key points from news articles and reference books in concise formats for quick revision. 3. Focus on Quality over Quantity Since time is limited, avoid trying to cover everything. Instead, focus on NCERTs, standard books, and previous years’ question papers. Concentrate on understanding concepts rather than rote memorization. 4. Develop Answer Writing Skills UPSC mains is all about structured writing within a time limit. Start practicing answer writing for 10-15 minutes daily. Use online platforms or join a test series to get feedback on your answers. 5. Optimize Weekend Study Sessions Your weekends are your golden opportunity to cover major portions of the syllabus. Plan in advance and allocate time for mock tests, optional subjects, and revision. Take at least one full-length test every two weeks to simulate exam conditions. 6. Stay Motivated and Avoid Burnout Balancing work and studies can be exhausting, so ensure you maintain a healthy lifestyle. Get adequate sleep, exercise regularly, and take short breaks to rejuvenate. Surround yourself with like-minded aspirants or mentors for motivation and guidance. 7. Utilize Leaves Wisely Plan your leaves strategically before the exam to dedicate full-time study for at least 1-2 months. Utilize holidays and long weekends for intensive preparation. 8. Stay Consistent and Keep Revising Consistency is key in UPSC preparation. Revise regularly to retain information. Stick to your plan, stay focused, and don’t get discouraged by setbacks. Conclusion Cracking the UPSC exam for working professionals are tough but entirely possible with determination and the right approach. Stay disciplined, believe in yourself, and keep pushing forward. With a well-structured plan and smart preparation techniques, you can achieve your IAS dream without quitting your job. Civils360 The Top IAS Academy in Trivandrum is here to support your UPSC journey with expert guidance, study materials, and mentorship programs. Join us to stay ahead in your preparation! Enroll today with the best civils service academy and take your first step towards your Civils journey. Feel free to reach out to us for any inquiries, collaborations, or support. We’re here to help. Join Now
World Trade Organization – WTO
World Trade Organization – WTO World Trade Organization (WTO) is the only global international organization dealing with the rules of trade between nations. WTO has 164 members (including European Union) and 23 observer governments (like Iran, Iraq, Bhutan, Libya etc). Since its formation in 1995, WTO has helped reduce barriers to trade in both goods and services and created a dispute resolution system that has reduced the threat of trade wars. Evolution of WTO WTO is the successor to the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), which was created in 1947. GATT was the only multilateral instrument governing international trade from 1948 until the WTO was established in 1995. The Uruguay Round (1986-94) of GATT led to WTO’s creation and it began operations on 1st January 1995. The Agreement Establishing the WTO, commonly known as the “Marrakesh Agreement”, was signed in Marrakesh, Morocco in 1994. Main difference between GATT and WTO was that GATT mostly dealt with trade in goods, the WTO and its agreements could not only cover goods but also trade in services and other intellectual properties like trade creations, designs, and inventions. Features of WTO Organizational Structure of WTO: Ministerial Conference – is the topmost decision-making body which meets every 2 years. General Council – meets regularly to carry out the functions of WTO also functions under different rules as Trade Policy Review Body and the Dispute Settlement Body. WTO was expected to play larger role for improved living standards, employment generation, trade expansion with increasing share for developing countries and overall sustainable development. Trade Liberalization was seen as means for achieving these objectives Basic principles of Trade Liberalization that were to be followed were: Non-discrimination – Countries will not discriminate one from another. It had to be achieved through Most Favoured Nations status i.e., neutral trading relations and National treatment to non-domestic producers. Reciprocity – The concessions conferred by countries had to be mutual These principles are implemented through Ministerial Conferences, taking consensus-based decisions based on ‘One country, One vote’ which demonstrates democratic structure and processes of WTO. Throughout history, trade has played an important role in supporting economic development and promoting peaceful relations among nations. WTO has played a crucial role in the international trade, global economics and the political and legal issues arising in the international business because of globalization. WTO’s Contribution to the World Ease of Business – has emerged as the world’s most powerful institution for reducing trade related barriers between the countries and opening new markets. Economic integration – by building binding rules for global trade in goods and services, WTO has facilitated dramatic growth in cross-border business activity. Since its formation, value of world trade has nearly quadrupled, while the real volume of world trade has expanded by 2.7 times. Global Peace – maintains world peace and bilateral relations between its member countries by resolving trade related disputes through negotiations, consultations, and mediation. Gave the weak a stronger voice – small countries would be weaker without the WTO. Differences in bargaining power are narrowed by agreed rules, consensus decision-making and coalition building. National Incomes – domestic reforms and market-opening commitments have resulted in the lasting boost to national income of the member nations. Upliftment of Poor Countries – The least-developed countries receive extra attention in the WTO. All the WTO agreements recognize that they must benefit from the greatest possible flexibility, and better-off members must make extra efforts to lower import barriers on least-developed countries’ exports. Poverty Reduction – Free trade resulted in halving of average tariffs, cut cost of living and reduced extreme poverty rate in developing countries. Increased Global Value Chains – predictable market conditions fostered by the WTO, have combined with improved communications to enable the rise of global value chains. trade within these value chains today accounts for almost 70% of total merchandise trade. Health care – amendment to IP Agreement eased poor economies’ access to affordable medicines. The decisions in the WTO are typically taken by consensus among all members and they are ratified by members’ parliaments. This leads to a more prosperous, peaceful, and accountable economic world. India’s participation in an increasingly rule based system in the governance of international trade is to ensure more stability and predictability, which ultimately would lead to more trade and prosperity. Read Full GS Notes India at WTO India is a founder member of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) 1947 and its successor, the WTO. India has interest in the liberalization of services trade and wants commercially meaningful access to be provided by the developed countries. India is persistently demanding for a permanent solution on public stock holding subsidies at WTO, to ensure food and livelihood security. India strongly favours extension of higher levels of protection to geographical indications for products like Basmati rice, Darjeeling tea, and Alphonso mangoes at par with that provided to wines and spirits under the TRIPS agreement. India is against the pressure by developed countries on inclusion of non-trade issues such as labour standards, environmental protection, human rights, rules on investment, competition policy in the WTO agreements. as they are directed in the long run at enforcing protectionist measures against developing countries. based on non-trade issues, the developed countries like USA and European Union are trying to ban the imports of some goods like textile, processed food etc. However, disagreements over agricultural subsidies and intellectual property rights, separate bilateral and regional free trade agreements along with rising Protectionism and US-China trade war have reduced its effectiveness due to which there have been calls for reforming WTO. Reasons for crumbling of WTO Growing Protectionism – Over the past two years, various governments have introduced trade restrictions covering a substantial amount of international trade – affecting $747 billion in global imports in the past year alone. WTO has been less effective in addressing them, including US China trade war. This raised questions over WTO’s credibility. Changing World order – In the earlier phase of WTO, the rule-based trade had favoured the Western nations. But with the rise of developing countries and their increasing share in world trade, rule-based nature is perceived by US and EU as unfavourable and have attacked them by resorting
Public Administration Daily Answer Writing Challenge Day 8
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