Mains Syllabus GS 1

Main Examination:  General Studies-I

Art & Culture

The UPSC Civil Services Examination's Main Examination (IAS Mains) includes a significant section on Art and Culture within the General Studies Paper I. This section evaluates candidates' understanding of various aspects of Indian art, culture, and heritage. Here's a micro-detailing of the topics usually covered in the Art and Culture segment:

Indus Valley Civilization (IVC):

• Urban planning, architecture, pottery, seals, trade, and other cultural aspects.

Vedic Period:

• Literature (Vedas, Upanishads), rituals, social structure, and philosophical ideas.

Buddhism and Jainism:

Teachings, architecture (stupas, viharas), and impact on society and culture.

Maurya, Gupta, and Post-Gupta Art and Architecture:

• Gandhara, Mathura, Amaravati schools, temple architecture, and sculpture.

Medieval Indian Architecture and Art:

• Delhi Sultanate, Mughal period, and Vijayanagara architecture and art.

Indian Classical Dances:

• Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kathakali, Odissi, Kuchipudi, Manipuri, and Mohiniyattam.

Folk Dances and Music:

• Various regional forms of folk dances and music across India.

Indian Music:

• Hindustani and Carnatic classical music, instruments, ragas, and talas.

Indian Theatre Forms:

• Sanskrit theatre, folk theatre, and modern Indian theatre.

Indian Paintings:

Various schools of painting such as Mughal, Rajput, Kangra, Madhubani, and Tanjore.

Indian Literature:

• Contribution of various languages (Sanskrit, Tamil, Pali, Prakrit, etc.) and literary works.

Architecture and Sculpture of Temples and Monuments:

• Different architectural styles like Nagara, Dravida, and Vesara; famous temples and monuments.

Modern Indian Art:

• Development of modern Indian art, important artists, and their contributions.

Cultural Institutions in India:

• Key organizations and institutions promoting art, culture, and heritage.

Cultural Festivals and Traditions:

• Major cultural festivals celebrated across different regions of India and their significance.

Impact of Globalization on Indian Art and Culture:

• Changes in art forms, cultural practices, and their implications.

Candidates are expected to have a comprehensive understanding of these topics, including historical contexts, major developments, prominent figures, and their contributions to Indian art and culture. They should also be able to analyze the interconnections between different forms of art and culture and their significance in shaping Indian society and identity.

 

Modern History

The modern history section in the IAS Main Examination (IAS Mains) is an integral part of the General Studies Paper I. It covers significant events, movements, and developments from the 18th century to the mid-20th century. Here's a micro-detailing of the topics usually covered in the Modern History segment:

Advent of European Powers:

• The establishment and expansion of European powers in India, including the Portuguese, Dutch, French, and British East India Company.

British Expansion and Consolidation:

• The Battle of Plassey, the Battle of Buxar, and the policies of British governors-general such as Warren Hastings, Cornwallis, Wellesley, and Dalhousie.

Social and Religious Reform Movements:

• The Bengal Renaissance, Brahmo Samaj, Arya Samaj, Prarthana Samaj, and contributions of Raja Ram Mohan Roy, Dayananda Saraswati, and others.

Revolt of 1857 (First War of Independence):

• Causes, nature, leaders, spread, suppression, and consequences of the revolt.

Governance under Crown Rule:

• The Government of India Acts, the Indian Councils Acts, and the evolution of British India's administrative structure.

Indian Nationalism:

• Early phase of nationalism, the formation of Indian National Congress (INC), moderates, extremists, partition of Bengal, Surat Split, Swadeshi Movement, and the Home Rule Movement.

Gandhian Era:

• Mahatma Gandhi's ideologies, techniques of mass mobilization, Non-Cooperation Movement, Civil Disobedience Movement, Dandi March, and Quit India Movement.

Struggles in Princely States:

• Movements and resistance against princely states' autocratic rule, efforts towards democratization, and integration into independent India.

Separatist Movements and Muslim League:

• The All India Muslim League, the Lucknow Pact, the Khilafat Movement, and the demand for Pakistan.

Constitutional Development and Struggles for Rights:

• Demand for constitutional reforms, the Round Table Conferences, the Simon Commission, Poona Pact, Government of India Act 1935, and the demand for Purna Swaraj.

Revolutionary Movements:

• Revolutionary activities, organizations like the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA), and leaders like Bhagat Singh, Chandrashekhar Azad, and Subhas Chandra Bose.

Partition of India and Independence:

• The Mountbatten Plan, the partition of India, communal violence, and the transfer of power.

Integration of Princely States and the Making of the Indian Constitution:

• Sardar Patel's efforts in integrating princely states, the Constituent Assembly, framing of the Indian Constitution, and its salient features.

Candidates are expected to have a detailed understanding of these topics, including their causes, consequences, and implications on Indian society, politics, and culture. They should also be able to critically analyze the various perspectives, ideologies, and strategies adopted by different leaders and movements during this period.

 

Post-Independence Modern History

The post-independence modern history section in the IAS Main Examination (IAS Mains) covers significant events, developments, and policies in India after gaining independence in 1947. Here's a micro-detailing of the topics usually covered in the Post-Independence Modern History segment:

Integration of Princely States:

• Sardar Patel's role in integrating princely states into the Indian Union through negotiation and, if necessary, military action.

Partition and its Aftermath:

• Communal violence, population exchanges, refugee crisis, and the socio-economic impact of partition.

Constitutional Development:

• Framing of the Indian Constitution, debates in the Constituent Assembly, and the adoption of the Constitution on January 26, 1950.

Political Developments:

• Dominance of the Indian National Congress, formation of political parties like the Bharatiya Jana Sangh (later BJP), Communist Party of India (CPI), and regional parties.

Nehruvian Era:

• Jawaharlal Nehru's vision of modern India, economic policies (Five-Year Plans), non-alignment in foreign policy, and his approach to nation-building.

Economic Policies and Reforms:

• The mixed economy model, industrial policies, Green Revolution, land reforms, and the nationalization of banks.

Foreign Policy:

• Non-alignment movement, India's role in the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), relations with major powers, and Indo-Pak conflicts.

Indo-China Relations:

• Border disputes, the Sino-Indian War of 1962, and efforts towards normalization of relations.

Indo-Pakistan Relations:

• Wars of 1947-48, 1965, 1971, and the Kargil Conflict, as well as efforts towards peace and reconciliation.

Emergency Period (1975-1977):

• Reasons for imposition, suspension of civil liberties, resistance, and aftermath.

Post-Emergency Period:

• Restoration of democracy, rise of opposition parties, and the Janata Party government.

Socio-Economic Developments:

• Social reforms, women's empowerment, affirmative action (reservation policies), and poverty alleviation programs.

Technological Advancements and Space Program:

• India's space program, achievements in space exploration, and technological advancements.

Liberalization, Privatization, and Globalization (LPG):

• Economic reforms of the 1990s, liberalization of the Indian economy, privatization of state-owned enterprises, and globalization.

Major Events and Movements:

• Mandal Commission protests, and other significant movements and protests.

Contemporary Issues:

• Terrorism, Naxalism, insurgency in Jammu and Kashmir, North-East, and other regions, as well as challenges to national unity and integrity.

Candidates are expected to understand the historical context, causes, consequences, and implications of these events and developments in shaping post-independence India. They should also analyze the role of leaders, institutions, and socio-political movements in addressing various challenges and opportunities during this period.

 

World History

The world history section in the IAS Main Examination (IAS Mains) covers significant events, movements, and developments from different regions of the world. Here's a micro-detailing of the topics usually covered in the World History segment:

Ancient Civilizations:

• Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece, Rome, and their political, social, economic, and cultural characteristics.

Medieval Period:

• Feudalism, the Byzantine Empire, Islamic civilization, the Crusades, and the Mongol Empire.

Renaissance and Reformation:

• Renaissance in Italy, humanism, art, literature, and the Protestant Reformation led by Martin Luther.

Age of Exploration:

• European voyages of exploration, discovery of the New World, colonialism, and impact on indigenous civilizations.

Enlightenment and Scientific Revolution:

• Intellectual movements, scientific discoveries, thinkers like Voltaire, Rousseau, and the impact on politics and society.

French Revolution and Napoleonic Era:

• Causes, events, and consequences of the French Revolution, rise of Napoleon Bonaparte, and its impact on Europe.

Industrial Revolution:

• Origins, technological innovations, social and economic changes, and the rise of capitalism.

Imperialism and Colonialism:

• European imperialism in Africa, Asia, and the Americas, scramble for colonies, and resistance movements.

World War I:

• Causes, course, consequences, Treaty of Versailles, and impact on international relations.

Interwar Period:

• Great Depression, rise of totalitarian regimes (Nazism, Fascism, Stalinism), and the League of Nations.

World War II:

• Causes, major battles, Holocaust, atomic bombings, and the emergence of the United Nations.

Cold War Era:

• Division of the world into Eastern and Western blocs, ideological confrontation, proxy wars, and nuclear arms race.

Decolonization and National Liberation Movements:

• Independence movements in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, and the end of colonial rule.

Post-Cold War Era:

• Collapse of the Soviet Union, globalization, rise of new powers, and challenges to international security.

Globalization:

• Economic, political, and cultural dimensions of globalization, and its impact on societies and economies worldwide.

Contemporary Issues:

• Terrorism, climate change, migration, human rights, and challenges to democracy.

Candidates are expected to have a comprehensive understanding of these topics, including their causes, consequences, and significance in shaping global history. They should also be able to analyze historical events and developments from multiple perspectives and draw connections between different regions and periods.

 

Indian Society

The Indian Society section in the IAS Main Examination (IAS Mains) encompasses various aspects of society, culture, diversity, and social issues prevalent in India. Here's a micro-detailing of the topics usually covered in the Indian Society segment:

Social Structure:

• Caste system: Origin, evolution, features, and contemporary relevance.
• Varna and Jati system: Distinctions, hierarchy, and mobility.
• Tribal communities: Characteristics, distribution, and issues.

Social Institutions:

• Family: Types, structure, functions, and changes in the family system.
• Marriage: Forms, rituals, customs, and changing trends.
• Kinship: Patterns, roles, and significance in Indian society.
• Religion: Diversity, rituals, festivals, and impact on social life.
• Education: Access, quality, challenges, and role in social mobility.

Gender Issues:

• Gender roles: Traditional roles, changing perceptions, and challenges.
• Women empowerment: Policies, initiatives, and gender equality.
• Patriarchy: Manifestations, consequences, and efforts towards gender justice.
• Women's movements: Historical evolution, key leaders, and achievements.

Social Movements:

• Dalit movements: Assertion, mobilization, and struggles for equality.
• Tribal movements: Identity, rights, and conflicts.
• Environmental movements: Conservation, sustainable development, and conflicts.
• Human rights movements: Advocacy, protection, and challenges.

Social Changes:

• Urbanization: Trends, challenges, and implications on society.
• Industrialization: Impact on employment, migration, and livelihoods.
• Globalization: Cultural dynamics, economic changes, and social transformations.
• Technological advancements: Digital divide, access, and social media's role.

Marginalized Communities:

• Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs): Development, welfare schemes, and challenges.
• Minorities: Religious, linguistic, and ethnic minorities; issues of identity and rights.
• Persons with disabilities (PWDs): Rights, inclusion, and accessibility.

Health and Sanitation:

• Healthcare system: Infrastructure, accessibility, and quality of healthcare services.
• Sanitation: Swachh Bharat Mission, sanitation practices, and challenges.

Poverty and Livelihoods:

• Poverty: Measurement, causes, and poverty alleviation programs.
• Livelihoods: Rural and urban livelihood patterns, informal sector, and employment schemes.

Education and Literacy:

• Literacy rates, educational disparities, challenges in education sector, and initiatives for education reform.

Social Problems:

• Child labor, child marriage, human trafficking, substance abuse, and crime against women and children.
• Communalism, caste-based discrimination, regionalism, and religious fundamentalism.

Candidates are expected to understand the dynamics of Indian society, including its diversity, challenges, and transformations. They should also analyze social issues from multiple perspectives, evaluate government policies and interventions, and propose solutions for inclusive and sustainable development.

 

World Geography

The World Geography section in the IAS Main Examination (IAS Mains) covers various geographical features, regions, and phenomena across the globe. Here's a micro-detailing of the topics usually covered in the World Geography segment:

Physical Geography:

• Geomorphology: Study of landforms, including mountains, plateaus, plains, and valleys.
• Climatology: Study of climates, weather patterns, factors influencing climate, and climate change.
• Hydrology: Study of water bodies, including oceans, rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• Biogeography: Study of ecosystems, biodiversity, and the distribution of flora and fauna.

Human Geography:

• Population Geography: Study of population distribution, density, growth, migration, and demographic transition.
• Cultural Geography: Study of cultures, languages, religions, customs, and traditions across the world.
• Economic Geography: Study of economic activities, resources, industries, agriculture, and trade patterns.
• Political Geography: Study of borders, boundaries, geopolitics, and international relations.
• Urban Geography: Study of cities, urbanization trends, urban planning, and challenges of urban growth.

Regional Geography:

• Continents and Regions: Study of continents (e.g., Asia, Africa, Europe) and sub-regions (e.g., Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Latin America).
• Physical and Human Features: Characteristics, landscapes, and socio-economic conditions of different regions.
• Regional Disparities: Disparities in development, resources, and socio-economic indicators among regions.
• Regional Integration: Study of regional blocs, such as the European Union, ASEAN, and NAFTA.

Environmental Geography:

• Natural Hazards: Study of earthquakes, tsunamis, hurricanes, floods, droughts, and their impacts.
• Conservation Geography: Study of environmental conservation, protected areas, biodiversity hotspots, and sustainable development.
• Environmental Issues: Study of pollution, deforestation, desertification, climate change, and their mitigation strategies.

Geopolitical Issues:

• Territorial Disputes: Study of territorial conflicts, boundary disputes, and their geopolitical implications.
• Resource Conflicts: Study of conflicts over natural resources, including water, minerals, and energy sources.
• Global Governance: Study of international organizations, treaties, and mechanisms for addressing global challenges.

Geographical Techniques:

• Cartography: Study of map-making, GIS (Geographic Information Systems), and remote sensing techniques.
• Geographical Information Systems (GIS): Applications of GIS in mapping, spatial analysis, and decision-making.
• Remote Sensing: Use of satellite imagery and aerial photography for studying Earth's surface and environmental changes.

Candidates are expected to have a comprehensive understanding of these topics, including their interconnections and implications for global development, environment, and geopolitics. They should also analyze geographical issues from interdisciplinary perspectives and propose solutions for sustainable development and resource management.

 

Indian Geography

The Indian Geography section in the IAS Main Examination (IAS Mains) focuses on various geographical aspects of India, including its physical features, climate, natural resources, and socio-economic characteristics. Here's a micro-detailing of the topics usually covered in the Indian Geography segment:

Physical Features:

• • Physiographic Divisions: Study of the Northern Plains, Peninsular Plateau, Himalayas, Coastal Plains, and Islands.
  • Rivers: Study of major river systems such as the Ganges, Brahmaputra, Indus, Godavari, Krishna, and their tributaries.
  • Mountains: Study of the Himalayan Range, Western Ghats, Eastern Ghats, Aravalli Range, and their significance.
  • Deserts: Study of the Thar Desert and its characteristics.

Climate:

• • Climate Regions: Classification of India's climate into tropical, subtropical, arid, and alpine regions.
  • Monsoon: Study of the Indian monsoon system, including the southwest monsoon and northeast monsoon.
  • Seasonal Variations: Study of seasons, temperature variations, rainfall patterns, and their impact on agriculture and economy.

Natural Resources:

• • Minerals: Study of mineral resources such as coal, iron ore, bauxite, manganese, and petroleum.
  • Water Resources: Study of surface water and groundwater resources, irrigation projects, and water management.
  • Forests: Study of forest cover, types of forests, biodiversity, conservation efforts, and forest-related industries.
  • Agricultural Resources: Study of soils, agricultural regions, cropping patterns, and agricultural productivity.

Environment and Ecology:

• • Biodiversity Hotspots: Study of biodiversity-rich regions such as the Western Ghats, Eastern Himalayas, and Indo-Burma region.
  • Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks: Study of protected areas, endangered species, and conservation efforts.
  • Environmental Issues: Study of environmental degradation, pollution, deforestation, land degradation, and conservation measures.

Human Geography:

• • Population Distribution: Study of population density, growth rate, demographic transition, and urbanization trends.
  • Settlement Patterns: Study of rural and urban settlements, urbanization, migration patterns, and urban development.
  • Cultural Diversity: Study of languages, religions, customs, traditions, and cultural heritage of different regions.
  • Economic Geography: Study of agriculture; factors responsible for the location of primary, secondary, and tertiary sector industries in various parts of the world (including India); industries; trade; infrastructure; and economic disparities among regions.

Disaster Management:

• • Natural Disasters: Study of earthquakes, floods, cyclones, landslides, and droughts, and disaster management strategies.
  • Mitigation Measures: Study of early warning systems, preparedness, relief operations, and rehabilitation efforts.

Geopolitical Issues:

• • Borders and Boundaries: Study of India's international borders, boundary disputes, and border security.
  • Strategic Locations: Study of strategic locations such as the Himalayas, maritime borders, and their geopolitical significance.

Candidates are expected to have a comprehensive understanding of these topics, including their interrelationships and implications for India's development, environment, and security. They should also analyze geographical issues from interdisciplinary perspectives and propose solutions for sustainable development and resource management.