Best IAS Coaching Institute in Hoshiyarpur

A Brief Overview of the UPSC/IAS Exam

The Union Public Service Commission follows a three-tier examination process. As per the exam pattern, candidates must pass the Preliminary and Main exams for the ultimate selection. Those who clear the Preliminary exam proceed to the Main exam. Upon qualifying the Mains, candidates undergo an Interview and, if selected, proceed to training. Know about the Best IAS Coaching Institute in Hoshiyarpur:

UPSC IAS Prelims Exam Pattern

The UPSC IAS Preliminary Exam serves as a screening stage for candidates aspiring to qualify for the Mains. It comprises two objective-type papers, each focusing on different subject areas. Both papers are crucial for candidates to advance to the next stage of the selection process. Notably, there’s a 1/3th negative marking for incorrect answers in the Prelims, and the exam is bilingual, catering to both English and Hindi speakers. 

UPSC Preliminary Examination Scheme

UPSC IAS Mains Exam Pattern

1. The UPSC IAS Mains Exam is a critical phase of the selection process. The UPSC Mains Exam Pattern consists of a total of 9 papers:
   • 1 Compulsory Indian Language Paper 
   • 1 English Language Paper
   • 1 Essay Paper
   • 4 General Studies Papers (GS1, GS2, GS3 & GS4)
   • 2 Optional Papers
2. As per the UPSC Mains exam pattern, all the papers in the mains stage will be of descriptive type.
3. The time duration for each paper is 3 hours. Extra 30 minutes will be given to the blind candidates.
4. The total marks scored in the mains exam will be counted in the final merit list.
5. The language papers (Mains Paper A & Paper B) are qualifying in nature.
6. Paper A is not compulsory for candidates from the States of Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland and Sikkim as well as candidates with hearing impairment. However, they have to provide confirmation about the exemption of such 2nd or 3rd language courses from their concerned university or board.
7. Candidates can choose any one optional subject from the list of 48 optional subjects provided by UPSC.

Syllabus for UPSC Mains exam

General Studies-I

Indian Heritage and Culture, History and Geography of the World and Society.

• Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of art forms, literature, and architecture from ancient times to modern times.
• Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the present- significant events, personalities, issues.
• The Freedom Struggle — its various stages and important contributors/contributions from different parts of the country.
• Post-independence consolidation and reorganization within the country
• History of the world will include events from 18th century such as industrial revolution, world wars, redrawal of national boundaries, colonization, decolonization, political philosophies like communism, capitalism, socialism etc.— their forms and effect on the society.
• Salient features of Indian Society, Diversity of India.  Role of women and women’s organization, population and associated issues, poverty and developmental issues, urbanization, their problems and their remedies.
• Effects of globalization on Indian society.
• Social empowerment, communalism, regionalism & secularism.
• Salient features of world’s physical geography.
• Distribution of key natural resources across the world (including South Asia and the Indian subcontinent); factors responsible for the location of primary, secondary, and tertiary sector industries in various parts of the world (including India).
• Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc., geographical features and their location-changes in critical geographical features (including water-bodies and ice-caps) and in flora and fauna and the effects of such changes.

General Studies- II

Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, and International Relations.

• Indian Constitution—historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions, and basic structure.
• Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure, devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein.
• Separation of powers between various organs disputes redressal mechanisms and institutions.
• Comparison of the Indian constitutional scheme with that of other countries.
• Parliament and State legislatures—structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges, and issues arising out of these.
• Structure, organization, and functioning of the Executive and the Judiciary—Ministries and Departments of the Government; pressure groups and formal/informal associations and their role in the Polity.
• Salient features of the Representation of People’s Act.
• Appointment to various Constitutional posts, powers, functions, and responsibilities of various Constitutional Bodies.
• Statutory, regulatory, and various quasi-judicial bodies.
• Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.
• Development processes and the development industry —the role of NGOs, SHGs, various groups and associations, donors, charities, institutional and other stakeholders.
• Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes; mechanisms, laws, institutions, and Bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections.
• Issues relating to the development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, and Human Resources.
• Issues relating to poverty and hunger.
• Important aspects of governance, transparency and accountability, e-governance- applications, models, successes, limitations, and potential; citizens charters, transparency & accountability and institutional and other measures.
• Role of civil services in a democracy.
• India and its neighborhood- relations.
• Bilateral, regional, and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.
• Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora.
• Important international institutions, agencies, and fora- their structure and mandate.

General Studies-III

 Technology, Economic Development, Bio diversity, Environment, Security and Disaster Management

• Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development, and employment.
• Inclusive growth and issues arising from it.
• Government Budgeting.
• Major crops-cropping patterns in various parts of the country, – different types of irrigation and irrigation systems storage, transport and marketing of agricultural produce and issues and related constraints; e-technology in the aid of farmers.
• Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies and minimum support prices; Public Distribution System- objectives, functioning, limitations, revamping; issues of buffer stocks and food security; Technology missions; economics of animal-rearing.
• Food processing and related industries in India- scope’ and significance, location, upstream and downstream requirements, supply chain management.
• Land reforms in India.
• Effects of liberalization on the economy, changes in industrial policy and their effects on industrial growth.
• Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc.
• Investment models.
• Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life.

General Studies- IV

 Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude

This paper will include questions to test the candidates’ attitudes and approaches to issues relating to integrity, probity in public life, and problem-solving approaches to various issues and conflicts faced in dealing with society. Questions may utilize the case study approach to determine these aspects.

The following broad areas will be covered :

• Ethics and Human Interface: Essence, determinants and consequences of Ethics in human actions; dimensions of ethics; ethics – in private and public relationships. Human Values – lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders, reformers, and administrators; the role of family society and educational institutions in inculcating values.
• Attitude: content, structure, function; its influence and relation with thought and behavior; moral and political attitudes; social influence and persuasion.
• Aptitude and foundational values for Civil Service, integrity, impartiality and non-partisanship, objectivity, dedication to public service, empathy, tolerance, and compassion towards the weaker sections.
• Emotional intelligence concepts and their utilities and application in administration and governance.
• Contributions of moral thinkers and philosophers from India and the world.
• Public/Civil Service values and Ethics in Public administration: Status and problems; ethical concerns and dilemmas in government and private institutions; laws, rules, regulations, and conscience as sources of ethical guidance; accountability and ethical governance; strengthening of ethical and moral values in governance; ethical issues in international relations and funding; corporate governance.
• Probity in Governance: Concept of public service; Philosophical basis of governance and probity; Information sharing and transparency in government, Right to Information, Codes of Ethics, Codes of Conduct, Citizen’s Charters, Work culture, Quality of service delivery, Utilization of public funds, challenges of corruption.
• Case Studies on the above issues.

IAS Exam Pattern for UPSC Interview Round

The Interview is the third and final stage of the UPSC exams. If you clear the Mains examination, you will be called for this round.  

The Interview takes place within 3 – 4 months after the UPSC Mains exam.  

The Personality test or the Interview is for 275 marks, which makes up a total of 2025 marks in the final merit (1750 marks in Mains + 275 marks in the Interview).   

For this round, a panel of impartial and competent individuals will take your interview in order to test your personality.  

Keeping this in mind, the questions that can be asked in the interview could range from   

• Personal details such as your interests, hobbies, work and education  
• Current affairs issues of national and international importance 
• Socio-economic issues are currently taking place in the country or in your home.  
• Situational–based questions are asked to assess your decision–making abilities 
• Opinion–based questions are asked to test your analytical skills and to judge your moral integrity.  

The candidates are judged as to how close their mental and social traits are to that of an ideal IAS officer. 

Is It Necessary to Join Coaching for UPSC/IAS Preparation?

• The majority of the successful candidates (maybe 90% of toppers) seem to have taken coaching to crack the UPSC Civil Services Examination.
• The coaching may be online or offline.
• In most instances, it is seen that coaching helps in improving the performance of candidates. It usually saves valuable time and effort for candidates.
• While coaching institutes can provide valuable support, joining them is not mandatory for UPSC preparation. There are a minority of aspirants who have cracked UPSC through self-study.
• However, coaching institutes offer structured guidance, expert mentoring, and a competitive environment that can benefit the aspirants.

Importance of joining Coaching for UPSC Preparation

The Union Public Service Commission examination is one of the most prestigious and challenging exams in India. It attracts thousands of aspirants annually, all vying for a limited number of coveted positions. In such a competitive environment, the importance of coaching in UPSC exam preparation cannot be overstated. While some candidates may succeed without formal coaching, many find that the structured guidance and support offered by coaching institutes greatly enhance their chances of success. In this blog, we’ll explore the significant role coaching plays in UPSC preparation and why it remains a popular choice for aspirants.

1. Structured Guidance and Curriculum

UPSC coaching institutes provide aspirants with a structured and comprehensive curriculum that covers all the subjects and topics required for the exam. This structured approach helps students stay focused and organized throughout their preparation. The syllabus for the UPSC exam is vast and varied, covering subjects such as history, geography, polity, economics, and current affairs. Coaching institutes break down this vast syllabus into manageable modules, making it easier for aspirants to cover all the essential areas.

2. Expert Faculty and Mentorship

One of the primary advantages of UPSC coaching is the opportunity to learn from experienced and knowledgeable faculty members. These educators are often subject matter experts who can provide insights, clarification, and guidance on complex topics. They understand the intricacies of the UPSC exam and can help students navigate it successfully. In addition to faculty, many coaching institutes also offer mentorship programs where students can interact with current and former civil servants. These mentors provide invaluable insights into the examination process and the job demands.

3. Regular Assessments and Mock Tests

Coaching institutes conduct regular assessments and mock tests, which are essential for UPSC exam preparation. These assessments not only help students gauge their progress but also acclimate them to the pattern and timing of the actual exam. They also receive valuable feedback that allows them to identify their weaknesses and work on them. Practicing with mock tests under exam-like conditions is crucial for managing time and reducing the pressure on the day of the actual examination.

4. Time Management and Strategy

UPSC coaching institutes offer strategic guidance on time management and exam strategy. They help aspirants formulate a study plan and timetable that aligns with the UPSC exam schedule. Additionally, they provide tips and tricks for effectively managing time during the exam and deciding which questions to attempt first. These strategies can significantly enhance a candidate’s performance in the UPSC examination.

5. Motivation and Peer Learning

Joining a coaching institute also provides aspirants with a motivating environment. Being surrounded by peers who share a common goal can be a source of inspiration and competition. This camaraderie can boost morale and help students stay motivated throughout their preparation. Group discussions and interactions with peers often lead to a deeper understanding of complex topics and the exchange of valuable insights.

6. Updated Study Material and Resources

UPSC coaching institutes keep their study materials and resources up to date. They incorporate the latest developments and current affairs into their curriculum, ensuring that candidates are well-prepared for the dynamic nature of the UPSC examination. This is particularly crucial for the General Studies paper, which includes questions related to current events and contemporary issues.

In the pursuit of a career in the Union Public Service Commission, the importance of coaching in UPSC exam preparation cannot be overstated. Coaching institutes provide structure, expertise, motivation, and resources that significantly enhance an aspirant’s chances of success. However, it’s important to note that while coaching can be immensely helpful, individual dedication and hard work are equally essential. Aspirants should choose coaching institutes wisely, as the right guidance can make the journey to becoming an IAS officer smoother and more effective.

Why Should You Choose Launchpad IAS for UPSC Preparation at Hoshiyarpur?

• Experienced Faculty: Launchpad IAS provides teachers with more than 15 years of experience mentoring civil services examination aspirants. Every teacher at Launchpad IAS Institute has faced the UPSC civil service examination themselves. They are familiar with the pertinent problems aspirants face and are masters in providing solutions for such issues.
• Well-organized and structured material: Aspirants are provided with comprehensive study materials, including well-structured and up-to-date notes and resources that align with the UPSC syllabus. The institute follows the policy of providing a complete book set for UPSC preparation, making it easier for students and saving them the effort of finding important resources themselves
• Regular Test Series: Regular tests are conducted every week as frequent mock tests help students assess their progress. The tests that are conducted are in sync with the latest UPSC pattern. Along with that, regular main answer-writing sessions are conducted to help UPSC aspirants develop brilliant answer-writing skills.
• Personalized Attention: At Launchpad, the class sizes are intentionally kept small to ensure that students can actively engage with their teachers. Students are also given extra time to ask questions and seek clarification during classes. The emphasis is on addressing each student’s specific needs and monitoring their progress, which the teachers do regularly and share with the parents.
• Interactive Learning: Emphasis is placed on interactive and engaging teaching methods. All classes are equipped with digital panels, and Launchpad IAS teachers use PowerPoint presentations for a better understanding of the content.
• Regular newspaper class: Newspaper reading is an important part of UPSC preparation. However, many aspirants struggle to read the daily newspaper, especially in the initial phase of their preparation. Launchpad IAS, the best UPSC coaching institute, provides daily newspaper classes where current affairs are discussed in great detail. These classes help aspirants better absorb current affairs and also become aware of what they need to focus on.
• Personality development sessions: In the journey of preparing for the UPSC IAS exam, it is crucial to recognize the significance of personality development. A candidate’s performance in the UPSC IAS interview holds the potential to significantly impact their ranking in the UPSC civil service examination. At Launchpad IAS, dedicated and structured personality development sessions are conducted to assist candidates in building and improving their communication skills and overall personality.
• Affordable fee structure: At Launchpad, we understand the importance of making quality education accessible to everyone. That’s why we have designed our PCS courses to be incredibly affordable, putting the focus on learning rather than profits. To further ensure accessibility, we offer easy EMI options for students and also provide online courses at even more competitive prices.

Student testimony and Success stories

Every year, our students crack the UPSC Exam with flying colours. There are some topper interactions with our students. There are also complete detailed strategy videos of toppers on our YouTube channel:

• Sachin Pathak In Conversation With LaunchPad IAS
• UPSC CSE 2021 Topper’s Strategy by Mr. Umesh Goyal, IPS (AIR 388)

Additional support and resources

• Extra English classes: If you enroll in any of the  UPSC IAS courses, you will receive extra English classes to improve your English communication skills.  For the IAS exam, one needs basic English up till the 12^th level.
• Access to online study material: We provide you with additional study material for your preparation along with recorded sessions so that you don’t miss any class. And watch your classes at the time of your convenience.
• Reading Room facility: Launchpad provides you with a free-of-cost reading room facility where you can prepare in peace.

In case you have any queries about our courses or want to know about our fee structure, you can contact us at 8999395000 / 8999396000, or you can directly place an order: UPSC CSE 2025 Online Course

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