UPSC Prelims Syllabus 2025 for GS 1 & GS 2, Prelims Syllabus PDF
by Vajiram & Ravi
02-12-2024
10:36 AM
The UPSC Prelims Syllabus serves as a foundational guide for candidates preparing for the first stage of the Civil Services Examination, conducted by the Union Public Service Commission. It encompasses a broad range of subjects, including current events, history, geography, polity, economics, environmental studies, and general science. This syllabus aims to assess a candidate's knowledge, analytical skills, and aptitude for a career in public service, providing a comprehensive overview of the topics essential for clearing the preliminary examination.
The UPSC Prelims Test consists of two objective-type papers: General Studies Paper I, which covers a wide range of General Studies subjects, and General Studies Paper II (CSAT), which tests comprehension, logical reasoning, and analytical ability. Success in the Prelims is essential for advancing to the Mains examination.
UPSC Prelims Syllabus 2025 Overview
UPSC Prelims Test is conducted in two phases-
General Studies Paper 1
General Studies Paper 2 (CSAT)
Here is an overview of UPSC Prelims GS Paper 1 and Prelims GS Paper 2 Syllabus-
UPSC Prelims Syllabus 2025
Maximum Marks
Duration Of Exam
General Studies Paper – I
Current events of national and international importance.
History of India and Indian National Movement.
Indian and World Geography-Physical, Social, Economic Geography of India and the World.
Indian Polity and Governance – Constitution, Political System, Panchayati Raj, Public Policy, Rights Issues, etc.
Economic and Social Development – Sustainable Development, Poverty, Inclusion, Demographics, Social Sector initiatives, etc.
General issues on Environmental Ecology, Biodiversity and Climate Change – that do not require subject specialization
General Science
200 Marks
2 Hours
CSAT/ General Studies Paper-II
Comprehension
Interpersonal skills including communication skills
Logical reasoning and analytical ability
Decision-making and problem solving
General mental ability
Basic numeracy (numbers and their relations, orders of magnitude, etc.) – Class X level)
Data interpretation (charts, graphs, tables, data sufficiency etc. – Class X level)
200 Marks
2 Hours
UPSC Prelims Syllabus for CSAT
The UPSC Prelims CSAT, officially known as General Studies Paper II, is a qualifying paper in the Civil Services Preliminary Examination. Candidates need to secure at least 33% (66 marks out of 200) to qualify. The CSAT syllabus encompasses a variety of subjects aimed at evaluating a candidate's mental ability, comprehension skills, and decision-making aptitude. The syllabus includes:
Comprehension:
Testing the ability to understand and interpret written texts.
Answering questions based on given passages.
Interpersonal Skills and Communication:
Assessing basic communication and interpersonal skills.
Situational judgment tests.
Logical Reasoning and Analytical Ability:
Questions on logical reasoning.
Analytical problems to test the candidate's reasoning skills.
Decision Making and Problem Solving:
Scenarios requiring decision-making and problem-solving skills.
Assessing the candidate's judgment and problem-solving capabilities.
General Mental Ability:
Numerical and mental ability tests.
Questions on basic arithmetic operations and their applications.
Basic Numeracy and Data Interpretation:
Numbers and their relations.
Orders of magnitude, data sufficiency, charts, and graphs.
The CSAT is designed not only to test the knowledge of the candidates but also to evaluate their cognitive and analytical abilities. This ensures that aspiring civil servants have the necessary skills to tackle complex problems and make informed decisions in their professional roles.
UPSC Prelims Syllabus for GS Paper 1
General Studies Paper 1 (GS Paper 1) of the UPSC Prelims is designed to evaluate a candidate's knowledge across a broad spectrum of subjects critical for understanding contemporary issues and historical contexts. This paper tests candidates' grasp of key areas including:
Current Affairs: Awareness of national and international news, significant political and economic developments, and important social issues.
History of India: Understanding of ancient, medieval, and modern Indian history, including major events, figures, and socio-political changes.
Indian and World Geography: Knowledge of physical and human geography, environmental issues, and spatial understanding of both India and the world.
Indian Polity and Governance: Familiarity with the Indian Constitution, political institutions, and governance structures.
This paper demands not only factual knowledge but also the ability to connect historical events and geographical factors with current issues. A well-rounded preparation involves integrating information from various sources and understanding its application in contemporary contexts.
UPSC Prelims Syllabus 2024 for Current Affairs
The Current Affairs section of the UPSC Prelims General Studies Paper 1 is crucial for assessing candidates' awareness of recent events and developments at both national and international levels. This part of the syllabus demands up-to-date knowledge about contemporary issues that influence global and domestic affairs.
Key areas of focus include significant political, economic, social, and environmental events, as well as advancements in science and technology. Candidates are expected to stay informed about major government policies, international relations, and current trends affecting various sectors.
Indian Express and The Hindu Newspapers
Down to Earth Magazine
Yojana Magazine and Kurukshetra Magazine
Economic and Political Weekly
Press Information Bureau (PIB) releases
UPSC Prelims Syllabus – History of India and Indian National Movement
The History of India and Indian National Movement Syllabus of the UPSC Prelims General Studies Paper 1 is designed to test candidates' understanding of India's historical evolution and the various movements that shaped its path to independence. This segment covers a broad spectrum of historical periods, from ancient and medieval times to the modern era.
Key areas include the rise and fall of major dynasties and empires, significant cultural and socio-religious developments, and the intricate details of India's struggle for independence. The syllabus emphasizes important historical figures, pivotal events, and the socio-political transformations that occurred over time.
A thorough grasp of these topics not only requires memorization of facts and dates but also an understanding of their broader implications on India's history and development. This approach ensures that candidates can contextualize historical events and their impact on contemporary India, which is essential for both the Prelims and subsequent stages of the UPSC examination.
UPSC Prelims Syllabus- Ancient History of India
Prehistoric cultures in India
Indus Valley Civilization. Origins- the different phases- society, economy, and culture- Contacts with other cultures- factors lead to the decline.
Geographical distribution and characteristics of pastoral and farming society.
Vedic society-Vedic texts- change from Rig Vedic to later Vedic phases.
Vedic society Religion- Upanishad thought-Political and social organisation, the evolution of the Varna system and monarchy.
Formation of the State and urbanisation, from the Mahajanapadas to the Nandas.
Buddhism and Jainism- Factors for the spread of Buddhism.
The Mauryan Empire- Chandragupta and Megasthenes.
Ashoka and his inscriptions, his dhamma, culture, administration, and art
Society of Post-Mauryan India, BC 200- AD 300- Evolution of Jatis.
The Satavahanas and formation of the state in the Peninsula.
Sangam texts and society.
Indo-Greeks, Sakas, Parthians, Kushans, Kanishka-Contacts with the outer world.
Different Religion- Bhagavatism, Shaivism, Mahayana Buddhism and Hinayana, Jainism and Culture and art.
The Guptas and their descendants.
Literature Science, Arts, Economy, and society -Modification in the political organization of empire.
UPSC Prelims Syllabus- Medieval Indian History
Early Medieval India. Major dynasties; Political and Agrarian organisation. Status of women, Extent of social mobility. The Arabs in Sind and the Ghaznavids.
Cultural trends, 750-1200, Religious circumstances: the significance of temples and monastic institutions; Sankaracharya; Islam; Sufism. Art and architecture. Literature and Science.
13th and 14th Centuries: Ghorian invasions reasons and consequences. Delhi Sultanate under the Slave Rulers. Aladdin Khalji: invasion; administrative, agrarian and economic measures. Muhammad Tughlug’s innovations. Firuz Tughluq and the decline of the Delhi Sultanate. Development of urbanisation and commerce. Spiritual movements in Hinduism and Islam. Literature. Architecture, Technological changes.
The 15th and early 16th Century: Key Provincial dynasties; Vijayanagara Empire. The Lodhis, First stage of the Mughal Empire: The Sur Empire and administration. Monotheistic movements: Kabir; Guru Nanak and Sikhism; Bhakti. The spread of regional literature. Art and Culture.
The Mughal Empire, Akbar: invasion, administrative measures, Policy of Sulh-I-Kul. Jagir and Mansab systems; Jahangir, Shahjahan, and Aurangzeb: extension of Mughal empire in the Deccan; religious policies. Shivaji. Persian and regional literature. Religious idea: Abul Fazl; Maharashtra dharma. Architecture. Painting. Economy: state of affairs of peasants and artisans, escalation in trade; trade with Europe. Social stratification and position of women.
The decline of the Mughal Empire, Reason behind the decline. Maratha power under the Peshwas. The Afghans. Regional states. Most important components of composite culture. Sawai Jai Singh, astronomer. The rise of the Urdu language.
Modern India -Indian National Movement
British extension: The Carnatic Wars, invasion of Bengal. Mysore and its confrontation to British expansion: The three Anglo-Maratha Wars. Regulating and Pitt’s India Acts. Early composition of the British raj.
Economic Impact of the British Raj: land revenue settlements like Zamindari, Ryotwari, Mahalwari; Deindustrialisation; Railways and commercialisation of agriculture; increase of landless labour.
Cultural encounter and social changes: the inception of western education and modern thoughts. Indian Renaissance, religious and social reform movements; Social reforms events before 1857. Development of Indian middle class; the vernacular press and its effects: the rise of modern literature in Indian languages.
Confrontation to British rule: Early uprisings; The 1857 Revolt-reasons, character, course and result.
Indian Freedom struggle the first stage: Growth of national consciousness; creation of Associations; Establishment of the Indian National Congress and its Moderate stage; Swadeshi Movement; Economic Nationalism; The development of Extremism and the split in Congress; The policy of Divide and Rule; Congress-League Pact of 1916.
Gandhian thoughts and techniques of mass mobilisation- Civil Disobedience, the Khilafat movement, Non-Cooperation Movement, and Quit India Movement; another strand in the National Movement-Revolutionaries, Subhash Chandra Bose, and the Indian National Army.
Separatist movements in Indian politics- the Hindu Mahasabha and the Muslim League; Partition and Independence; The post -1945 developments.
India became independent in 1964. A parliamentary, democratic, secular. Jawaharlal Nehru’s vision, Foreign policy of Non-alignment, Planning and state-controlled industrialisation. Agrarian modification.
UPSC Prelims Syllabus – Indian and World Geography
The Indian and World Geography Syllabus of the UPSC Prelims General Studies Paper 1 is designed to assess candidates' understanding of both the physical and human geography of India and the world. This segment of the syllabus is crucial, as it provides insights into the spatial aspects of human life, the natural environment, and the intricate interactions between them.
The syllabus covers a wide array of topics, including physical geography, which focuses on the natural features of the Earth such as landforms, climate, flora, and fauna. It also delves into human geography, examining the distribution of populations, cultural landscapes, urbanization, and economic activities. Additionally, candidates need to understand the geographic factors influencing environmental changes, resource distribution, and geopolitical dynamics.
A thorough preparation for this section involves not only memorizing facts but also developing a conceptual understanding of geographical phenomena and their real-world implications. This approach ensures that candidates can analyze and interpret geographic information accurately, a skill essential for effective decision-making in civil services.
UPSC Prelims Syllabus- Indian Geography
The basic idea about India
Location, latitude, longitude, time zone,
Neighbouring countries
States and its position and the states on International boundaries
Important straits
Physical features of India
The Himalayas
Geological Formation
Physiographic divisions
Climate, Vegetation, Soil and Biodiversity
Major passes
Significance
Recent issues
The Great North Indian plains
Geological Formation
Physiographic divisions
Climate, Vegetation, Soil and Biodiversity
Significance
Peninsular Plateau
Geological formation
Deccan plateau
Central Highlands
Western and Eastern Ghats
Socio-economic issues related
Indian Desert
Coastal plains and Islands
River systems – Characteristics, comparison and significance
Himalayan rivers
Peninsular rivers
River basins
Hydro-Power projects, Power plants and Major Dams
Regional development and planning
West flowing and east-flowing rivers
Interlinking of rivers
Climate in India
Monsoon
Driving mechanism
Effects of La-Nino and El-Nino
Recent theories
Season of India
Cyclones
Mineral and industries
Distribution of minerals
Industrial policies
Location factors
Issues and challenges of the industries
Industrial clusters
Agriculture and Allied-characteristics and Problems
Land utilisation
Types of agriculture practices
Soils and Crops
Trends agriculture (Green revolution )
Irrigation
Major irrigation projects
Land reforms
Government policies and schemes
Animal husbandry (livestock resources)
Natural vegetation and fauna- Characteristics, importance, comparison and significance
Classification of natural vegetation
Rainfall distribution
Wildlife sanctuaries
National Forest Policy
Biosphere reserve
National parks
Environmental issues
Red-listed species (in recent news)
Economic infrastructure
Transportation,
Road(National Highways)- Rail- Air- Water(Major inland waterways) and its Significance
Power and energy sector
Sources of conventional and non-conventional energy
Energy conservation and crisis
Recent developments
Human Geography
Demographics
Recent census- 2011
UPSC Prelims Syllabus- World Geography & Physical Geography
Universe
Theories related to Solar System
Theories related to the formation of the universe
Recent updates on the same
The basic idea about Earth
The motion of the Earth – Rotation and Revolution
Latitudes and Longitudes
The inclination of the Earth’s Axis – effect on seasons
Solar Eclipse, Lunar Eclipse and Tides and their significance
Geomorphology
Earth’s movement (exo-genetic and endo-genetic)
Earthquakes, volcanic activity
The basic idea about Continental Drift Theory, Plate Tectonics Theory, Sea Floor Spreading
Interior of the earth
lithosphere
Interaction of lithosphere with other spheres
Boundaries and composition
Mass Movements of landforms, erosion and deposits
Basic information about geographical landforms and their significance
Rock system and Classification of Rocks
Climatology
Structure and composition of the atmosphere
Factors controlling the temperature distribution
Insolation and terrestrial radiation
Heat budget
Global warming and ozone layer
Humidity and condensation
Clouds
Classification of clouds
Precipitation
Precipitation mechanism
Different types and forms of precipitation
Pressure belts
Atmospheric circulation
Winds
Planetary Winds
Seasonal and Local Winds
Cyclones Tropical and Temperate cyclone
Formation of cyclone, characteristics and impact
Jet streams
Various atmospheric phenomenon
The hydrosphere
Bottom relief of ocean
Salinity and temp variation
Ocean Currents
Ocean deposit
Ocean resources
Recent issues and development with ref to oceanography- Eg: UNCLOS
Biosphere
Major Biomes
Flora and fauna
International organisation for biodiversity
Conservation of Biodiversity
Recent issues
Economic geography
Map work
Places in News
UPSC Prelims Syllabus – Indian Polity and Governance
The Indian Polity and Governance section of the UPSC Prelims General Studies Paper 1 is a fundamental component that evaluates a candidate's knowledge of the political and administrative framework of India. This section aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the constitutional, legal, and institutional structures that govern the country, as well as the political dynamics at play.
Key topics include the Constitution of India, covering its salient features, amendments, and significant provisions; the functioning of the Parliament and State Legislatures; the roles and responsibilities of the President, Prime Minister, and other key officials; and the structure and functions of the judiciary. Additionally, it encompasses governance issues such as public policy, rights issues, and the role of various governmental and non-governmental organizations.
To excel in this section, candidates must not only familiarize themselves with theoretical concepts but also stay updated with current events and contemporary issues in Indian polity and governance. This dual approach ensures a well-rounded preparation, enabling candidates to understand both the foundational principles and the evolving nature of governance in India.
UPSC Prelims Syllabus- Indian Polity and Governance
Preamble
Features of preamble
42nd Amendment
Swaran Singh committee
Schedules
The basic idea about 12 schedules
Constitution of India
The basic idea about All articles
Historical Background
Drafting committee and the making of the Constitution
Influence of other constitutions
Its salient features
Union and its Territory
The basic idea about Article 1-4
State reorganization and different Commissions
Federal nature
Recent issues
Citizenship
The basic idea about Article 5-11
PIO, NRI, OCI and Pravasi Bharatiya Divas
Privileges available for Indian citizens and foreigners
Citizenship Amendment Act of 2016
New policies, schemes and recent changes in voting.
Fundamental Rights (FR)
The basic idea about Article 12-35
A thorough understanding of Articles 14- 30 and Art. 32
Rights and privileges available to citizens of India only and both to citizens and foreigners
44th amendment act
Different types of Writs
Enforcement and Exceptional cases with regard to FR’s
RTE and recent issues related to FR
Fundamental Duties(FD)
Article 51A
Difference between FR and FD
Significance and Criticism
Enforcement of FD’s
Recent issues about FD
Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP)
The basic idea about Article and Article 36-51 and Article 368
Sources and key features of DPSP
Classification of DPSP
Comparison/ conflicts between Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles
Parliamentary proceedings like Question Hour, Zero Hour, and Adjournment Motion, etc.
Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha,
Special powers of Rajya Sabha
Anti-defection law and 10th schedule
Parliamentary Privileges
Bill and lawmaking procedure
Budget, funds and it’s summary
Parliamentary Committees
Judiciary
The basic idea about article related to the judiciary.
Powers of Supreme court and high court
Qualification and appointment
Removal procedure
Recent controversy, verdicts, and constitutional provisions.
State Government- State Executive
Governor- appointment, removal and special powers.
Executive, Legislative, Financial, Judicial powers and discretionary of the governor
7th constitutional amendment
Chief minister and council of ministers
Power of chief minister
State Legislature
State legislature compared to the Parliament with regard to composition, powers, and functions.
Bicameral legislatures
Creation and abolition of the Legislative councils
Administration of Union Territories (UT)
Special provision for Delhi
Administration and jurisdiction in UT’s
Administration of Special Areas
Basic idea about 5thSchedule 6th Schedule
Recent issues related to Administration of Special Areas
Special provision for Jammu and Kashmir-Article 370
Difference between constitutional provisions related to Jammu and Kashmir
Emergency Provisions
National emergency- Article 352
President’s rule or State emergency- Article 356
Financial emergency- Article 360
44th amendment act
Effects and implications of emergency
Role of President in emergency time
The State of FR, Lok Sabha, and Rajya Sabha
Revoking emergency
State- centre and interstate relations
The basic idea about Articles 262 and 263
Composition and functions of Interstate council and Zonal council
Inter-State trade and Commerce
Recent disputes between states, controversies etc
New policies or schemes which impact interstate relations
Panchayati Raj and municipalities
Elections, auditing, powers and authority of panchayats
3 tier structure
73rd Amendment Act and the 74th Amendment Act
Relation with FR and DPSP
Schemes introduced
Metropolitan planning committee and urban development
Reservation
Constitution Bodies
Election Commission
UPSC
SPSC
JPSC
Finance Commission
National Commission for SCs and ST’s,
Composition, Powers and functions, Removal of the Constitutional bodies
Non-Constitutional Bodies
The basic idea about Composition, Functions, Working of the Non-Constitutional bodies such as National Human Rights Commission, Central Information Commission, Central Vigilance Commission, Central Bureau of Investigation, State Human Rights Commission, State Information Commission, etc.
Tribunals
The basic idea about Article 323A and tribunals under Article 323B
Recent controversial issues related to tribunals
Different tribunals and importance
Special Provisions for SCs, STs, Backward Classes, Minorities and Anglo-Indians
Privileges and right issued to SC’s, ST’s, Backward Classes, Minorities and Anglo-Indians
Issues related to vulnerable sections like women, child, SC’s, ST’s, Backward Classes, Minorities and Anglo-Indians
Current affairs
Recent issues related to above-mentioned categories
Important schemes, programs, missions, laws, and policies launched by the government.
Recent Government Bills and Governance- Actions
UPSC Prelims Syllabus – Indian Economy
The Indian Economy syllabus of the UPSC Prelims General Studies Paper 1 is a critical area that tests candidates' understanding of the economic principles, policies, and issues relevant to India. This section is designed to assess the depth of knowledge regarding the country's economic framework and its application to real-world scenarios.
Key topics within this section include the fundamentals of economic growth and development, poverty, and unemployment, as well as key economic sectors such as agriculture, industry, and services. Candidates must also be well-versed in government policies related to taxation, budgeting, and public expenditure, as well as financial institutions and markets. Furthermore, issues like inflation, fiscal and monetary policy, international trade, and the impact of globalization are integral components of the syllabus.
To effectively prepare for this section, candidates should integrate a thorough understanding of theoretical concepts with an awareness of current economic developments and government initiatives. Staying updated with economic surveys, budget analyses, and relevant news from reliable sources is essential. This approach ensures candidates are well-equipped to analyze economic issues and their implications, a skill vital for a career in civil services.
UPSC Prelims Syllabus- Economic and Social Development
Economic growth and development – basic concept and definition of Economy and economics, uses and transfer of resources, distributive effects, macro and microeconomic policy, micro-macro balance, distributive impact of economic policies, development versus growth, determinant of growth and development, concepts such as HPI/MPI, HDI, PQLI, GEM, GDI/GII, TAI, Green index, sustainable development, India’s ranking in the various indices.
Poverty – definitions, causes, distribution-deprivation, income versus calories, measurement of poverty, the status of poverty, eradication programmes, poverty and resource policy, tribal rights and issues, livelihood mission.
Demographics – census data, populations by gender, by state, by age group, socio-economic status, caste, religion, literacy levels, etc. Trends in human development – interstate comparison, etc.
Fiscal policy – definition, component, receipts, revenue and capital account, tax revenue, expenditure, budget.
UPSC Prelims Syllabus – Science and Technology
The Science and Technology syllabus of the UPSC Prelims General Studies Paper 1 is designed to evaluate a candidate's knowledge of scientific principles, technological advancements, and their applications in contemporary society. This section is crucial as it covers the dynamic field of science and its ever-evolving nature, reflecting the importance of staying updated with the latest developments.
Key topics include the basics of physics, chemistry, and biology, as well as their real-world applications. It encompasses recent advancements in technology, such as information technology, biotechnology, nanotechnology, and space technology. Candidates must also be aware of the initiatives and policies related to science and technology undertaken by the Indian government, including research and development efforts and their societal impacts.
To prepare effectively for this section, candidates should focus on both theoretical knowledge and practical applications. Keeping abreast of current scientific discoveries, technological innovations, and reading scientific publications and reputable sources of news will aid in understanding and contextualizing the information. This comprehensive approach ensures candidates are well-prepared to tackle questions related to Science and Technology in the UPSC Prelims.
Universe – Big Bang, Redshift, Blueshift
Star Formation – Stellar Evolution, Life Cycle of A Star
Solar System Formation – Nebular Theory of Laplace
Solar System – Planets, Inner Planets, Outer Planets