UPSC CSE 2026-27 Syllabus

UPSC CSE 2026-27 Syllabus – Detailed Syllabus for Prelims & Mains Exam

The UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) is widely regarded as one of India’s most prestigious and challenging competitive exams. Conducted annually by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), this examination recruits candidates for high-profile government positions such as Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), Indian Forest Service (IFS), Indian Revenue Service (IRS), and other Group A and B central services.

A clear understanding of the UPSC syllabus is essential for aspirants to develop an effective preparation strategy. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the Prelims and Mains syllabus for UPSC CSE 2026-27, including subject-wise breakdowns, optional subjects, essay components, and interview/personality test details. Aspirants can also download the latest UPSC Syllabus PDF 2026-27 for structured and focused preparation.

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UPSC CSE 2026-27 Exam Pattern Overview

Preliminary Examination (Prelims)

The UPSC Preliminary Examination acts as a screening test and consists of two objective papers, GS Paper I and CSAT (GS Paper II). Both papers carry 200 marks each, with negative marking for incorrect answers.

Note: Prelims Paper II (CSAT) is qualifying in nature. Candidates must score a minimum of 33% in Paper II to be eligible for the Mains examination.

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Main Examination (Mains)

The UPSC Mains Examination is a descriptive exam comprising nine papers, including qualifying papers, General Studies papers, Essay, and Optional subjects. Each paper carries 3 hours duration.

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Personality Test (Interview)

After the Mains, candidates who qualify are called for a Personality Test / Interview, which carries 275 marks. This stage assesses:

• Mental alertness and analytical abilities
• Decision-making and problem-solving skills
• Leadership and interpersonal skills
• Ethical integrity and suitability for public service

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UPSC CSE 2026-27 Prelims Syllabus – Detailed Breakdown

The Preliminary Examination consists of GS Paper I (General Studies) and GS Paper II (CSAT). Both papers carry 200 marks each, but only Paper I counts for merit ranking; Paper II is qualifying.

GS Paper I Syllabus

• Current events of national and international importance
• History of India and the Indian National Movement
• Indian and World Geography: Physical, Social, and Economic Geography
• Indian Polity and Governance: Constitution, Political System, Panchayati Raj, Public Policy, Rights Issues
• Economic and Social Development: Sustainable Development, Poverty, Inclusion, Demographics, Social Sector Initiatives
• General issues on Environmental Ecology, Biodiversity, and Climate Change
• General Science

GS Paper II (CSAT) Syllabus

• Comprehension and communication skills
• Interpersonal skills including communication abilities
• Logical reasoning and analytical aptitude
• Decision making and problem solving
• General mental ability
• Basic numeracy (Class X level) and data interpretation (charts, graphs, tables, data sufficiency)

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UPSC CSE 2026-27 Mains Syllabus – Detailed Breakdown

The UPSC Civil Services Main Examination includes a comprehensive written stage followed by an Interview/Personality Test. The written component features 9 conventional papers, with 2 papers designated as qualifying in nature.

UPSC Civil Services Main Exam GS Paper – I Syllabus

Indian Heritage, Culture, History, Society & Geography

General Studies Paper-I in the UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination evaluates a candidate’s understanding of India’s cultural roots, historical evolution, social dynamics, and geographical foundations. This paper requires both factual knowledge and analytical ability, as aspirants must connect past developments with present-day realities and global trends.

The syllabus broadly covers Art & Culture, Ancient to Modern History, Post-Independence India, World History, Indian Society, and Physical & Human Geography.

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Indian Art & Culture – Heritage, Traditions & Cultural Continuity

This section focuses on India’s civilizational identity, creative expressions, and the evolution of cultural traditions across centuries.

Indian Culture – Core Themes

• Salient features of Indian art forms, literature, architecture, and traditions from ancient to modern times
• Cultural diversity and regional artistic expressions
• Continuity and transformation in Indian heritage
• Influence of religion, patronage, trade, and politics on cultural development

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Indian Art Forms

Indian Paintings

• Mural Paintings – Ajanta, Ellora, Lepakshi; religious and court themes
• Miniature Paintings – Mughal, Rajput, Pahari schools; symbolism, storytelling, and royal patronage
• Evolution of painting styles across historical periods

Dance Forms in India

• Classical Dance Forms – Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Odissi, Kathakali, Kuchipudi, Manipuri
• Folk Dance Forms – Bhangra, Garba, Ghoomar, Chhau, Lavani, regional traditions
• Modern Dance – Contemporary Indian and fusion dance styles
• Role of dance in ritual, storytelling, and social expression

Music Traditions

• Classical Music – Hindustani and Carnatic traditions
• Gharana system, raga-tala structure, and musical evolution
• Folk Music – Regional oral traditions and cultural storytelling

Puppetry

• String Puppets, Shadow Puppets, Rod Puppets, Glove Puppets
• Tribal puppetry traditions
• Modern puppetry as a medium for social awareness and cultural preservation

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Pottery & Material Culture

• Ochre Coloured Pottery (OCP)
• Black and Red Ware (BRW)
• Painted Grey Ware (PGW)
• Northern Black Polished Ware (NBPW)
• Archaeological significance in understanding early societies

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Drama & Theatre

• Classical Sanskrit Theatre – Kalidasa, Bhasa traditions
• Regional Theatre – Folk drama and cultural narratives
• Modern Indian Theatre – Social reform, nationalism, and contemporary themes

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Martial Arts in India

• Kalaripayattu, Gatka, Thang Ta, Silambam, Mallakhamb
• Cultural, physical, and historical significance
• Martial traditions as symbols of regional identity

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Sculpture & Visual Arts

• Harappan sculptures
• Mauryan art (Pillars, Yaksha sculptures)
• Buddhist and Jain sculpture
• Gupta school of sculpture
• Medieval and modern Indian sculptural traditions

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Bhakti & Sufi Movements

• Spread and evolution of Bhakti and Sufi traditions
• Role in promoting religious tolerance and social reform
• Contributions of women Bhakti saints
• Impact on literature, music, and society

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Indian Literature

• Vedic Literature, Upanishads, Puranas
• Classical Sanskrit authors such as Kalidasa and Vishakhadatta
• Buddhist and Jain literary traditions
• Sangam (Early Dravidian) literature
• Medieval literary movements
• Modern Indian literary trends and nationalist writings

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Indian Architecture

• Harappan urban architecture
• Mauryan and Gupta architecture
• Temple architecture – Nagara, Dravida, Vesara styles
• Cave architecture – Buddhist, Jain, Gupta caves
• Indo-Islamic architecture – Delhi Sultanate, Mughal, Provincial styles
• Rajput and Sikh architectural traditions
• Colonial and Post-Independence architecture
• Contributions of Buddhism and Jainism
• Rock-cut architecture – South, Western, and Eastern India

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Ancient Indian History – Foundations of Civilization

This section examines the origins, political systems, socio-economic structures, religious movements, and cultural achievements of ancient India.

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Prehistoric & Proto-Historic Period

• Paleolithic, Mesolithic, Neolithic cultures
• Chalcolithic settlements
• Iron Age technological developments

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Indus Valley Civilization (IVC)

• Urban planning, drainage systems, and town layout
• Harappan society, economy, trade, and religion
• Major centers such as Harappa, Mohenjo-Daro, Dholavira
• Harappan art and architecture
• Theories regarding the decline of the civilization

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Vedic Society

• Original home of the Aryans
• Early and Later Vedic socio-economic structures
• Varna system and social organization
• Vedic literature – Samhitas, Brahmanas, Upanishads
• Religious beliefs and philosophical thought

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Pre-Mauryan Period

• Mahajanapadas and rise of territorial states
• Haryanka, Shishunaga, and Nanda dynasties
• Political, economic, and administrative developments

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Jainism & Buddhism

• Life and teachings of Mahavira and Gautam Buddha
• Spread and patronage of religious movements
• Social and ethical impact on Indian society

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Mauryan Empire

• Chandragupta Maurya and Bindusara
• Arthashastra by Kautilya
• Megasthenes’ accounts
• Emperor Ashoka – Dhamma policy and inscriptions
• Mauryan administration, economy, society, and art
• Decline of the Mauryan Empire

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Post-Mauryan India

• Indo-Greeks, Shakas, Parthians, and Kushanas
• Satavahanas and other indigenous dynasties
• Schools of art – Gandhara, Mathura, Amravati

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Gupta Empire

• Political history and administration
• Cultural achievements – “Golden Age of India”
• Economic and urban development
• Science, art, and literature

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Harshavardhana

• Administration and governance
• Hiuen Tsang’s accounts
• Religious and social life during Harsha’s period

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Southern Dynasties

• Satavahanas
• Pallavas
• Chalukyas
• Pandyas
• Cholas
• Rashtrakutas
• Contributions to administration, culture, trade, and architecture

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Medieval Indian History – Political Power, Culture & Socio-Economic Transformation

Medieval Indian History focuses on political administration, socio-economic structures, cultural growth, religious movements, and regional powers from the 8th to the 18th century.

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Delhi Sultanate

• Slave (Mamluk) Dynasty – Qutbuddin Aibak, Iltutmish, Razia Sultana
• Khalji Dynasty – Alauddin Khalji’s reforms, price control, military administration
• Tughluq Dynasty – Muhammad bin Tughlaq’s experiments, Firoz Shah Tughlaq’s policies
• Sayyid Dynasty
• Lodi Dynasty – Ibrahim Lodi and decline of Sultanate
• Administrative, economic, military, and cultural developments

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Struggle for Power in North India

• Conflict among Rajputs, Afghans, and emerging Mughal power
• Transition from Sultanate to Mughal rule

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Mughal Empire

• Babur – foundation of Mughal rule
• Humayun – exile and return
• Akbar – administration, Mansabdari system, religious policy
• Jahangir – governance and cultural patronage
• Shah Jahan – architecture and imperial expansion
• Aurangzeb – religious policies and empire extension
• Later Mughals – weakening of central authority
• Causes of the decline of the Mughal Empire

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Sur Dynasty

• Sher Shah Suri – land revenue reforms, road networks, governance innovations

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Maratha Empire

• Shivaji and the Maratha administration
• Expansion under Peshwas
• Anglo-Maratha conflicts
• Decline of Maratha power

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Deccan Sultanates

• Ahmednagar, Bijapur, Golconda, Berar, Bidar Sultanates
• Political rivalries and cultural contributions

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Modern Indian History – British Rule, Nationalism & Freedom Struggle

This section examines colonial expansion, economic exploitation, social reform, nationalist movements, and India’s struggle for independence.

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Early Modern Developments (Before 1857)

• Later Mughals and regional powers
• Carnatic Wars
• Battles of Plassey and Buxar
• Anglo-Mysore Wars
• Anglo-Punjab Wars
• British expansion strategies

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British Rule & Its Impact

• Economic exploitation
• Administrative restructuring
• Socio-cultural transformations
• Commercialization of agriculture
• Drain of wealth theory

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Socio-Religious Reform Movements

• Raja Ram Mohan Roy
• Brahmo Samaj
• Arya Samaj
• Aligarh Movement
• Role in modern education and social awakening

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Revolt of 1857

• Causes, leaders, spread, and nature
• Suppression and consequences
• Government of India Act, 1858

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Rise of Nationalism (1858–1905)

• Role of Western education
• Press and political consciousness
• Formation of Indian National Congress
• Moderate phase

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Extremism & Revolutionary Phase (1905–1918)

• Swadeshi Movement
• Surat Split
• Morley-Minto Reforms
• Rise of militant nationalism
• Growth of communal politics

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Gandhian Era (1919–1947)

• Non-Cooperation Movement
• Civil Disobedience Movement
• Quit India Movement
• Round Table Conferences
• Government of India Act, 1935
• Role of Subhash Chandra Bose and INA
• Cabinet Mission
• Partition and Independence

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Post-Independence India – Nation-Building & Political Evolution

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Political Integration & Reorganization

• Integration of princely states
• Linguistic reorganization of states
• Regional aspirations
• Federal structure and center-state relations

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Foreign Policy & Global Engagement

• Non-Aligned Movement
• Panchsheel
• Wars with Pakistan and China
• Nuclear policy
• Strategic autonomy

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Economic Development

• Planned economy
• Green Revolution
• Industrial reforms
• LPG Reforms (1991)
• Cooperative movement

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Political Developments

• One-party dominance
• Emergency (1975–77)
• Rise of coalition politics
• Regional political parties

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Social Movements & Challenges

• Women’s movement
• Naxalism
• Tribal issues
• Communal tensions
• Popular protests

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Science & Technology Policy

• India’s technological growth
• Space, nuclear, IT sectors
• Impact of economic reforms on innovation

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World History – Revolutions, Wars & Global Political Transformations

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Early Modern World

• Renaissance
• Reformation
• Discovery of sea routes

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Major Revolutions

• American Revolution
• French Revolution
• Russian Revolution
• Impact on democracy and political thought

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Industrial Revolution

• Economic transformation
• Rise of capitalism
• Social consequences

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Imperialism & Colonialism

• Expansion of European empires
• Imperialism in Asia & Africa
• Resistance movements

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World Wars

• World War I – causes, treaties, consequences
• World War II – global conflict, Holocaust, aftermath

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Cold War Era

• US-USSR rivalry
• Korean War
• Vietnam War
• Cuban Missile Crisis
• Collapse of the Soviet Union

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Political Ideologies

• Communism
• Capitalism
• Socialism
• Impact on global governance

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Indian Society – Diversity, Inequality & Social Transformation

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Salient Features of Indian Society

• Unity in diversity
• Pluralism
• Cultural heterogeneity

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Women & Gender Issues

• Role of women’s organizations
• Women’s empowerment
• SHGs and microfinance
• Feminist movements

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Population & Demographic Challenges

• Demographic dividend
• Aging population
• Population policies

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Poverty & Development

• Causes of poverty
• Urban poverty
• Inclusive growth
• Welfare policies

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Urbanization

• Migration
• Slum issues
• Urban governance
• Smart Cities Mission

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Globalization & Its Impact

• Cultural influence
• Economic changes
• Social inequalities

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Social Challenges

• Communalism
• Regionalism
• Secularism
• Social empowerment

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World & Indian Geography – Physical, Human & Economic Dimensions

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Physical Geography

• Earth’s structure
• Plate tectonics
• Volcanoes & earthquakes
• Climate systems
• Oceanography

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Natural Resources

• Land, water, forests, minerals
• Energy resources
• Conservation strategies

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Human Geography

• Population
• Urbanization
• Migration
• Economic activities

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Indian Geography

• Physiography
• Drainage system
• Monsoon climate
• Soils
• Natural vegetation
• Agriculture
• Industry
• Transport networks

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UPSC Civil Services Main Exam GS Paper – II Syllabus

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POLITY

Indian Constitution

Historical Underpinnings & Evolution

• Regulating Act (1773) → Government of India Act (1935) → Independence Act (1947)
• Constituent Assembly formation & composition
• Objective Resolution (Jawaharlal Nehru)
• Drafting process & enforcement (1950)

Key Features of the Constitution

• Written Constitution
• Blend of rigidity and flexibility
• Federal system with unitary bias
• Parliamentary form of government
• Independent judiciary
• Fundamental Rights, DPSPs & Fundamental Duties
• Secularism, Universal Adult Franchise, Single Citizenship
• Emergency provisions
• Three-tier government

Amendments

• Amendment procedure (Article 368)
• Important Amendments:
  • 42nd, 44th, 52nd, 61st, 73rd, 74th, 86th, 101st (GST), etc.
• Political & social impact of amendments

Basic Structure Doctrine

• Origin — Kesavananda Bharati Case
• Core elements: Rule of law, Judicial review, Secularism, Federalism
• Key Judgments:
  • Golaknath Case
  • Minerva Mills Case
  • Indira Gandhi vs Raj Narain

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Union–State Relations & Federalism

Functions of Union & States

• Legislative powers (7th Schedule)
• Financial & administrative relations

Centre–State Issues

• Legislative conflicts
• Fiscal federalism
• Role of Finance Commission
• GST Council
• Governor’s role & controversies

Inter-State Relations

• Water disputes tribunals
• Inter-State Council
• Zonal Councils
• Trade & commerce across states

Emergency Provisions

• National Emergency
• President’s Rule
• Financial Emergency

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Local Governance & Decentralization

Panchayati Raj & Urban Local Bodies

• 73rd & 74th Amendments
• 11th & 12th Schedule
• Role of State Finance Commission

Challenges

• Poor fund devolution
• Political interference
• Capacity constraints

Reforms

• Panchayat Devolution Index (NITI Aayog)
• Digital governance in local bodies

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Separation of Powers & Checks and Balances

Doctrine

• Separation between Legislature, Executive & Judiciary

Checks & Balances

• Judicial Review
• Impeachment
• Parliamentary accountability

Key Cases

• Ram Jawaya Case
• Kesavananda Bharati Case
• Golaknath Case

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Parliament & State Legislatures

Structure

• Lok Sabha & Rajya Sabha
• Legislative councils (Vidhan Parishad)

Functions

• Law-making
• Budget approval
• Executive oversight

Issues

• Disruptions in Parliament
• Anti-defection law concerns
• Decline in parliamentary debates

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Executive & Judiciary

Executive

• President, Prime Minister, Council of Ministers
• Governor, Chief Minister

Judiciary

• Supreme Court, High Courts, Subordinate Courts
• Judicial independence
• Judicial activism vs overreach

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Constitutional & Statutory Bodies

Constitutional Bodies

• Election Commission

• UPSC & State PSCs
• Finance Commission
• CAG
• NHRC, NCW, NCSC, NCST

Regulatory & Quasi-Judicial Bodies

• RBI, SEBI, IRDAI, TRAI
• Lokpal & Lokayuktas
• NITI Aayog
• National Green Tribunal
• CBI, CIC, CVC

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GOVERNANCE

Government Policies & Development Interventions

Major Schemes

• Digital India
• Make in India
• Smart Cities Mission
• MGNREGA
• PMJDY
• Skill India
• Swachh Bharat Mission

Issues

• Poor implementation
• Leakages & corruption
• Monitoring challenges

Reforms Needed

• Outcome-based evaluation
• Transparency & citizen participation

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NGOs, SHGs & Development Sector

Role of NGOs

• Education, health, environment, empowerment
• Accountability & funding issues

Self-Help Groups (SHGs)

• Financial inclusion
• Women empowerment
• Challenges: Credit access, sustainability

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Governance, Transparency & Accountability

Good Governance Principles

• Accountability
• Participation
• Rule of law
• Transparency

RTI & Social Audit

• Impact & misuse concerns

Citizen Charter & Sevottam Model

• Service delivery improvement

E-Governance

• Digital public services
• Challenges: Digital divide, cybersecurity risks

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Role of Civil Services

Functions

• Policy formulation
• Service delivery
• Crisis management
• Institutional stability

Challenges

• Political interference
• Corruption
• Lack of professionalism

Reforms

• Lateral entry
• Performance-based promotion
• Ethical training

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SOCIAL JUSTICE

Welfare Schemes for Vulnerable Sections

SC/ST

• SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act
• Forest Rights Act
• Tribal Sub Plan

Women & Children

• POCSO Act
• Domestic Violence Act
• Beti Bachao Beti Padhao
• Maternity Benefit Act

Elderly & Disabled

• Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act
• Senior Citizen Welfare Act

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Health Sector Issues

Challenges

• Low public spending
• Infrastructure gaps
• Urban-rural disparity

Key Programs

• Ayushman Bharat
• National Health Mission
• National Health Policy

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Education Sector Issues

Problems

• Dropouts
• Learning outcomes (ASER Report)
• Digital divide

Reforms

• NEP 2020
• Skill-based education
• Teacher training

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Poverty, Hunger & Nutrition

Causes

• Unemployment
• Inequality
• Food insecurity

Programs

• NFSA
• Mid-Day Meal
• POSHAN Abhiyaan

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INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

India & Neighbourhood Relations

• China — Border & trade issues
• Pakistan — Terrorism & diplomacy
• Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh — strategic relations
• Maldives, Myanmar, Bhutan — regional security

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Bilateral Relations

• USA — Defense & technology
• Russia — Energy & defense
• Japan — Infrastructure & trade
• EU, Africa, ASEAN — strategic partnerships

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Global & Regional Groupings

• BRICS, SCO, BIMSTEC, ASEAN
• QUAD, G-20, NAM
• IBSA, SAARC, IORA

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Foreign Policy Doctrines

• NAM
• Act East Policy
• Gujral Doctrine
• Nuclear Doctrine

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Indian Diaspora

• OCI, Pravasi Bharatiya Divas
• Role in diplomacy & economy
• Challenges: Dual citizenship, migration policies

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International Institutions

• United Nations
• IMF & World Bank
• WTO
• WHO
• UNESCO

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UPSC CSE 2026-27 Mains Syllabus – General Studies Paper III

Technology, Economic Development, Agriculture, Environment, Security & Disaster Management

Marks: 250
Duration: 3 Hours

General Studies Paper III evaluates a candidate’s understanding of India’s economic structure, development challenges, technological advancement, environmental sustainability, agricultural reforms, disaster preparedness, and internal security framework. This paper focuses on policy analysis, problem-solving, data interpretation, and real-world governance challenges.

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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Indian Economy & Issues Relating to Planning, Resources, Growth, Development & Employment

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1. Planning in Indian Economic Development

Planning refers to the systematic allocation of resources and long-term economic strategy to achieve national development goals.

Meaning & Need for Planning

Planning ensures:

• Balanced regional development
• Poverty reduction
• Infrastructure expansion
• Industrial and agricultural modernization
• Employment generation

Types of Planning

• Imperative Planning – State-controlled planning
• Indicative Planning – Market-guided planning
• Structural Planning – Focus on sectoral transformation

Objectives of Indian Planning

• Economic self-reliance
• Inclusive growth
• Reduction of income inequality
• Industrial diversification
• Human capital development

Indian Planning History

• Five-Year Plans (1951–2017)
• Transition from Planning Commission to NITI Aayog
• Shift from centralized planning to cooperative federalism

Achievements & Failures of Planning

Achievements

• Industrial base creation
• Agricultural self-sufficiency
• Poverty reduction

Failures

• Regional imbalance
• Bureaucratic inefficiency
• Slow employment growth

NITI Aayog vs Planning Commission

• NITI Aayog emphasizes policy think-tank role, federal cooperation, real-time governance, and decentralized planning

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2. Mobilisation of Resources for Development

Mobilization of resources refers to raising financial, human, and natural capital for national development.

Types of Resources

• Financial
• Human
• Natural
• Institutional

Government Resource Generation

• Tax revenue
• Non-tax revenue
• Fiscal & Monetary policy instruments

Role of Financial Institutions

• Banking Sector
• NBFCs
• Capital Markets
• Public Borrowing

External Resources

• Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)
• Official Development Assistance (ODA)
• Multilateral loans

Challenges in Resource Mobilization

• Tax evasion
• Low savings rate
• Rising public debt
• Global financial volatility

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3. Growth & Development

Meaning of Growth vs Development

• Growth = Increase in GDP
• Development = Improvement in quality of life, income equality, and social welfare

Key Concepts

• Jobless growth
• Pro-poor growth
• Balanced vs unbalanced growth
• Human Development Index (HDI)

Measurement Indicators

• Per capita income
• Poverty index
• Multidimensional poverty index
• Gender Development Index

Challenges to Sustainable Growth

• Income inequality
• Unemployment
• Resource depletion
• Climate risks

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4. Employment & Labour Market Challenges

Employment Structure in India

• Rural vs Urban employment
• Formal vs Informal employment
• Gig economy

Employment Issues

• Youth unemployment
• Underemployment
• Skill mismatch
• Workforce restructuring

Government Initiatives

• Skill India
• Startup India
• Make in India
• MGNREGA
• Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme

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5. Inclusive Growth

Inclusive growth ensures economic benefits reach marginalized and disadvantaged communities.

Core Elements

• Financial inclusion
• Education & healthcare access
• Gender equality
• Regional balance

Challenges

• Poverty
• Digital divide
• Urban-rural gap
• Social exclusion

Role of Government

• Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)
• Jan Dhan Yojana
• Social security schemes

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6. Government Budgeting & Fiscal Policy

Purpose of the Government Budget

• Resource allocation
• Economic stabilization
• Poverty reduction

Budget Components

• Revenue receipts & expenditure
• Capital receipts & expenditure

Measures of Deficit

• Fiscal Deficit
• Revenue Deficit
• Primary Deficit

Fiscal Responsibility

• FRBM Act
• Deficit reduction strategies
• Outcome-based budgeting
• Zero-based budgeting

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7. Land Reforms in India

Objectives

• Equity in land ownership
• Agricultural productivity
• Social justice

Components

• Abolition of intermediaries
• Ceiling on land holdings
• Tenancy reforms

Challenges

• Political resistance
• Poor implementation
• Land record inefficiencies

Recent Reforms

• Land leasing policy
• Digital land records
• Rehabilitation laws

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8. Liberalization & Industrial Policy

Impact of Liberalization (Post-1991)

• Increased FDI
• Industrial modernization
• Global trade integration

Industrial Policy Evolution

• Pre-1991 licensing system
• Post-1991 deregulation

Manufacturing Initiatives

• Make in India
• National Manufacturing Policy
• Special Economic Zones (SEZs)

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9. Infrastructure & Investment Models

Key Infrastructure Sectors

• Energy
• Roads
• Railways
• Airports
• Ports

Investment Models

• Public Investment
• Private Investment
• PPP Model
• Foreign Investment

Sector-Specific & Cluster Models

• MSME clusters
• Startup ecosystems
• Smart Cities investments

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AGRICULTURE

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10. Cropping Patterns & Major Crops

Importance of Cropping Patterns

• Soil fertility
• Water efficiency
• Food security

Types

• Mixed cropping
• Crop rotation
• Multiple cropping

Emerging Trends

• Shift to cash crops
• Organic farming
• Climate-resilient crops

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11. Irrigation Systems & Water Management

Irrigation Types

• Canal irrigation
• Drip irrigation
• Sprinkler irrigation

Challenges

• Water wastage
• Groundwater depletion
• Salinity

Need for National Water Policy & reforms

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12. Agricultural Marketing & Storage

Institutions

• FCI
• APMCs
• Warehousing Corporations

Reforms

• e-NAM
• Farmer-Producer Organizations (FPOs)
• Contract farming

Challenges

• Price volatility
• Market inefficiencies

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13. MSP, Subsidies & Food Security

Agricultural Pricing Policy

• MSP mechanism
• Input subsidies

PDS & Buffer Stock

• Food Corporation procurement
• NFSA implementation

Issues

• Fiscal burden
• WTO compliance
• Leakages in PDS

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14. Food Processing Industry

Importance

• Value addition
• Employment
• Export potential

Government Initiatives

• SAMPADA
• Cold chain development
• Supply chain modernization

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15. Animal Husbandry Economics

• Dairy & livestock economy
• Fisheries
• Rural livelihood impact

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SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

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16. Everyday Applications of Science

• Artificial sweeteners
• Food preservatives
• Antibiotics
• Water purification
• Household chemical applications

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17. Achievements of Indian Scientists

Includes contributions by:

• C.V. Raman
• Jagadish Chandra Bose
• S.N. Bose
• Homi Bhabha
• Vikram Sarabhai
• A.P.J. Abdul Kalam
• Tessy Thomas
• C.N.R. Rao

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18. Emerging Technologies

• IT & Artificial Intelligence
• Space technology
• Biotechnology
• Robotics
• Nanotechnology
• Defence & Nuclear technology

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19. Intellectual Property Rights (IPR)

Types

• Patents
• Trademarks
• Copyright
• GI Tags

Indian IPR Framework

• International agreements
• Compulsory licensing
• Innovation protection

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BIODIVERSITY & ENVIRONMENT

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20. Biodiversity Conservation

Types

• Genetic
• Species
• Ecosystem

Conservation Methods

• In-situ
• Ex-situ

International Agreements

• CBD
• Ramsar Convention
• CITES

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21. Environmental Pollution & Climate Change

Pollution Types

• Air
• Water
• Soil
• Noise

Environmental Threats

• Global warming
• Ozone depletion
• Desertification
• Acid rain

Environmental Laws & Institutions

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22. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)

Purpose

• Sustainable development
• Risk mitigation

Challenges

• Implementation gaps
• Policy reforms needed

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DISASTER MANAGEMENT

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23. Types of Disasters

• Natural
• Man-made
• Biological
• Technological

Disaster Risk Reduction

• Preparedness
• Mitigation
• Response
• Rehabilitation

Government Framework

• NDMA
• SDMA
• Community-based disaster management

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INTERNAL SECURITY

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24. Extremism & Development Link

• Poverty
• Inequality
• Underdevelopment

Left Wing Extremism

Naxalism

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25. Role of External & Non-State Actors

• Terrorist organizations
• Insurgency
• Cross-border terrorism

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26. Cyber Security & Communication Threats

• Cyber warfare
• Data theft
• Social media misinformation
• Digital espionage

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27. Money Laundering & Organized Crime

• Financial crimes
• Terror funding
• Prevention laws

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28. Border Security Challenges

• Coastal security
• Land border disputes
• Organized crime linkages

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29. Security Forces & Intelligence Agencies

• CAPF
• Intelligence Bureau
• RAW
• NIA
• NATGRID

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UPSC Civil Services Main Exam GS Paper – II Syllabus

(For Mains + Case Studies + Real-Life Application)

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1. Ethics & Human Interface

What is Ethics?

Ethics refers to moral principles that guide human conduct, helping distinguish right vs wrong, fair vs unfair, just vs unjust.

Essence of Ethics in Human Actions

• Guides moral decision-making
• Ensures social harmony
• Builds trust in personal & public life
• Prevents misuse of power
• Encourages accountability

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Determinants of Ethical Behavior

• Family upbringing
• Education & institutions
• Culture & traditions
• Religion & philosophy
• Law & social norms
• Role models & leadership
• Personal conscience

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Consequences of Ethics

Positive Outcomes

• Social stability
• Trust in governance
• Sustainable development
• Strong institutions

Negative Outcomes of Ethical Failure

• Corruption
• Crime
• Social injustice
• Loss of credibility
• Institutional breakdown

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Dimensions of Ethics

• Personal Ethics — honesty, discipline
• Professional Ethics — duty, responsibility
• Public Ethics — integrity, impartiality
• Social Ethics — equality, compassion
• Environmental Ethics — sustainability
• Digital Ethics — data privacy, misinformation

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Ethics in Private vs Public Relationships

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Human Values & Role of Institutions

Key Human Values

• Truth
• Compassion
• Respect
• Responsibility
• Courage
• Justice

Institutions in Value Formation

• Family — moral foundation
• School — discipline & civic values
• Society — social responsibility
• Media — value influence
• State — constitutional values

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Lessons from Great Leaders

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2. Attitude

Meaning of Attitude

A psychological tendency to respond positively or negatively toward people, ideas, or situations.

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Structure of Attitude (ABC Model)

• Affective — Feelings
• Behavioral — Actions
• Cognitive — Beliefs

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Functions of Attitude

• Identity formation
• Social adjustment
• Value expression
• Decision guidance

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Influence on Thought & Behavior

• Shapes perception
• Drives moral judgment
• Impacts leadership decisions
• Influences public interaction

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Moral & Political Attitudes

• Attitude toward corruption
• Attitude toward equality
• Democratic values
• Respect for diversity

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Social Influence & Persuasion

• Peer pressure
• Authority influence
• Media & propaganda
• Social norms
• Ethical resistance strategies

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3. Aptitude & Foundational Values for Civil Services

Meaning of Aptitude

Innate or developed ability to respond effectively to real-life challenges.

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Core Civil Service Values

• Integrity — honesty & moral courage
• Impartiality — fairness without bias
• Non-partisanship — political neutrality
• Objectivity — evidence-based decisions
• Dedication to Public Service — citizen-centric governance
• Empathy — understanding others’ emotions
• Tolerance — respect for diversity
• Compassion — concern for vulnerable groups

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Ethical Traits of an Ideal Civil Servant

• Moral courage
• Accountability
• Emotional intelligence
• Transparency
• Humility
• Leadership
• Commitment to Constitution

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4. Emotional Intelligence (EI)

Concept

Ability to recognize, understand, manage one’s own emotions and others’ emotions.

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Components of EI

• Self-awareness
• Self-regulation
• Motivation
• Empathy
• Social skills

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Applications in Governance

• Conflict resolution
• Public grievance handling
• Crisis leadership
• Team management
• Ethical decision-making

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EI vs IQ in Administration

EI improves:

• Decision quality
• Public trust
• Leadership effectiveness
• Institutional harmony

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5. Moral Thinkers & Philosophers

Indian Thinkers

• Gandhi — Moral politics
• Buddha — Middle Path
• Vivekananda — Character ethics
• Kautilya — Statecraft ethics
• Ambedkar — Social justice

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Western Thinkers

• Aristotle — Virtue ethics
• Kant — Duty ethics
• Bentham — Utilitarianism
• John Rawls — Justice theory
• Plato — Moral idealism

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Key Ethical Theories

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6. Public Service Ethics & Governance

Ethics in Public Administration

• Moral responsibility
• Fair decision-making
• Citizen trust
• Efficient resource use

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Ethical Dilemmas in Governance

• Law vs Compassion
• Transparency vs Confidentiality
• Loyalty vs Public interest
• Political pressure vs Integrity

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Sources of Ethical Guidance

• Constitution
• Laws & Rules
• Conscience
• Codes of Conduct
• Institutional norms

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Accountability & Ethical Governance

• Social audits
• CAG oversight
• RTI
• Parliamentary control
• Vigilance mechanisms

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Corporate Governance Ethics

• CSR
• Transparency
• Stakeholder responsibility
• Prevention of fraud
• Ethical leadership

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7. Probity in Governance

Meaning of Probity

Probity = highest standards of integrity, honesty & transparency in public life

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Core Elements

• Ethical leadership
• Financial accountability
• Transparency
• Anti-corruption mechanisms
• Conflict-of-interest prevention

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Tools to Ensure Probity

• RTI Act
• Citizen Charter
• Lokpal
• Vigilance institutions
• Codes of Ethics
• Whistleblower protection

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Corruption Challenges

• Political corruption
• Bureaucratic corruption
• Corporate lobbying
• Nepotism
• Rent-seeking

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8. Ethical Issues in International Relations

Key Ethical Concerns

• Human rights violations
• Arms trade
• Refugee crisis
• Climate justice
• Global inequality
• Debt diplomacy

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Ethics in Foreign Aid & Funding

• Sovereignty concerns
• Conditionalities
• Transparency
• Fair global cooperation

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9. Case Studies — Ethics in Action

Types of Ethical Conflicts

• Personal vs Professional values
• Law vs Humanity
• Political pressure vs Integrity
• Efficiency vs Fairness

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Case Study Answer Framework (UPSC Style)

Step-1: Identify Stakeholders

Step-2: Define Ethical Issues

Step-3: List Values in Conflict

Step-4: Explore Options

Step-5: Evaluate Consequences

Step-6: Choose Best Ethical Action

Step-7: Justify with Ethical Principles

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10. Scoring Strategy for GS-4 (UPSC Toppers’ Method)

What UPSC Wants:

• Ethical reasoning
• Real-life practicality
• Balanced moral judgment
• Administrative realism
• Human sensitivity

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How to Write High-Scoring Ethics Answers:

• Define the concept clearly
• Use real examples
• Link values to Constitution
• Avoid philosophical over-theory
• Be practical, not idealistic

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UPSC Civil Services Prelims & Main Exams Previous 10 Years Papers