Explain UPSC Mains 2023 in 500 words
The UPSC Mains 2023 is one of the most prestigious and competitive examinations conducted in India. It is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) to recruit candidates for various civil services positions in the government of India. The examination is divided into three stages: Preliminary, Mains, and Interview.
The Mains stage of the UPSC examination is the second stage after the Preliminary examination. It is a written examination that tests the candidates' knowledge and understanding of various subjects. The Mains examination consists of nine papers, out of which two are qualifying in nature and the remaining seven are counted for the final merit list.
The nine papers in the UPSC Mains 2023 include:
Essay Paper: This paper tests the candidate's ability to express their thoughts and ideas in a coherent and organized manner. Candidates are required to write two essays, each carrying 125 marks.
General Studies Paper I: This paper tests the candidate's knowledge of Indian heritage, culture, history, and society. It covers topics like Indian art and architecture, modern Indian history, and social issues. The paper carries 250 marks.
General Studies Paper II: This paper focuses on governance, constitution, polity, social justice, and international relations. It covers topics like Indian constitution, governance, and international organizations. The paper carries 250 marks.
General Studies Paper III: This paper tests the candidate's knowledge of technology, economic development, biodiversity, environment, and security. It covers topics like Indian economy, science and technology, and disaster management. The paper carries 250 marks.
General Studies Paper IV: This paper tests the candidate's ethics, integrity, and aptitude. It covers topics like ethics and human interface, attitude, and moral and political philosophies. The paper carries 250 marks.
Optional Subject Paper I: Candidates can choose one optional subject from a list of subjects provided by the UPSC. The paper carries 250 marks.
Optional Subject Paper II: This is the second paper of the optional subject chosen by the candidate. The paper carries 250 marks.
Indian Language Paper: This paper is qualifying in nature and candidates are required to choose one of the Indian languages listed in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. The paper carries 300 marks.
English Paper: Similar to the Indian Language Paper, this paper is also qualifying in nature. Candidates are required to write an essay, comprehension passages, and precise writing. The paper carries 300 marks.
The UPSC Mains 2023 examination is conducted over a period of five to seven days. Each paper is of three hours duration, except for the Indian Language and English papers which are of two hours duration. The examination is conducted in offline mode, and candidates are required to write their answers in either English or any of the listed Indian languages.
The Mains examination is followed by the Interview stage, where candidates who qualify the Mains examination are called for a personal interview conducted by a panel of experts. The interview carries 275 marks and is aimed at assessing the candidate's personality, knowledge, and suitability for the civil services.
In conclusion, the UPSC Mains 2023 is a rigorous examination that tests the candidate's knowledge, understanding, and aptitude in various subjects. It is an important step towards a career in the civil services and requires thorough preparation and dedication.