What is the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE)?

The UPSC CSE is India’s most prestigious exam conducted to recruit IAS, IPS, IFS, and other Group A & B officers. It has three stages: Prelims, Mains, and Interview.

Who is eligible to apply for UPSC CSE?

Any graduate between 21–32 years of age (with relaxation for reserved categories) can apply. Both final-year students and professionals are eligible.

How many attempts are allowed in UPSC?

General: 6 attempts (till 32 years); OBC(NCL): 9 attempts (till 35 years); SC/ST: Unlimited attempts (till 37 years).

What is the exam pattern of UPSC?

Prelims: Objective (GS & CSAT); Mains: 9 Descriptive Papers (Essay, 4 GS, 2 Optional, 2 Qualifying Language Papers); Interview/Personality Test: Final stage.

How should a beginner start UPSC preparation?

For self-learners: Start with NCERTs (Class 6–12), followed by standard reference books, daily newspaper reading, and consistent answer writing practice. Students associated with 'UnderStand UPSC': Follow the guidance provided by the team of mentors led by Satyam Jain Sir.

Which books are best for UPSC preparation?

Polity: Laxmikanth; History: Spectrum + NCERTs; Geography: NCERT + GC Leong; Economy: Ramesh Singh + Current Affairs; Environment: Majid Husain.

Is coaching necessary for UPSC?

Not compulsory. With the right strategy, self-discipline, and resources, many toppers have cleared UPSC without coaching. Coaching, however, can provide structured guidance.

How important is Current Affairs in UPSC?

Extremely important. Questions in Prelims, Mains, and Interviews are linked to current issues. Reading newspapers like The Hindu/Indian Express or using monthly compilations is essential.

How much time is required to prepare for UPSC?

On average, 1.5 to 2 years of focused preparation with 8–10 hours daily study is ideal. Consistency matters more than duration.

What is the role of NCERTs in UPSC preparation?

NCERTs build strong conceptual clarity in subjects like History, Geography, Polity, and Economy. They are the foundation of UPSC preparation.

How can I manage UPSC preparation with a job?

Follow a time-blocking strategy, prioritize weekends for deep study, and focus on smart notes & revision. Many working professionals have successfully cleared UPSC.

Does UPSC preparation require English medium only?

No. UPSC allows candidates to write Mains in any of the 22 scheduled languages. Many toppers have cleared UPSC in Hindi and regional languages.

What is the cut-off for UPSC Prelims (General Category)?

The cut-off changes every year but usually ranges between 75–98 marks depending on difficulty, vacancies, and number of applicants.

How should I prepare for UPSC answer writing?

Practice daily or weekly answer writing, focus on structure (Intro–Body–Conclusion), and include facts, examples, and current affairs.

Where can I get free UPSC resources?

You can download NCERTs, UPSC Previous Year Papers, Daily Current Affairs PDFs, and Notes for free from the Understand UPSC Free Resources section.

Is CSAT qualifying in UPSC Prelims?

Yes. Candidates need to score at least 33% (66 marks) in CSAT to qualify.

What is the exam pattern of UPSC Prelims?

Two papers: General Studies (200 marks) and CSAT (200 marks, qualifying). Both are objective type.

What is UnderStand UPSC and how is it different from other coaching institutes?

UnderStand UPSC is a mentorship-driven EdTech platform for UPSC aspirants focusing on personalized guidance, affordability, and credibility — unlike traditional coaching setups.

What courses do you offer for UPSC preparation?

We offer Conquer Program (Mains Mentorship), UpSurge Mains Test Series, Transform (Foundation), CSAT by Saransh Gupta Sir, Prelims MAD Execute, Prelims Test Series, Answer Writing Programs, and Optional Subject Mentorship.

How does the mentorship program work?

Each group on Telegram is assigned a mentor who reviews test copies, provides feedback, tracks progress, and conducts sessions via Zoom or Google Meet.

Do you provide online or offline classes?

Yes, both modes are available. Offline has limited seats; online ensures access across India with live mentorship and test feedback.

How can I enroll in a course?

You can register via our website (www.understandupsc.com), mobile app, or contact team. Enrolled students receive LMS access with all resources.

Do you provide free resources?

Yes. Free resources include NCERT PDFs, UPSC Academic Calendar, Syllabus, PYQs, and Daily Current Affairs — available in the Free Resources Section.

How do your test series work?

Our test series mirror UPSC standards, are evaluated by mentors, and come with personalized feedback to ensure continuous improvement.

What is the fee structure for your programs?

Fees vary by program but are designed to remain affordable while maintaining quality. Check the latest pricing on the Courses Page.

Can working professionals also join your programs?

Yes. Our mentorship is flexible and personalized, helping working aspirants balance jobs with preparation.

Do you provide guidance for the UPSC Interview/Personality Test?

Yes. We conduct mock interviews, DAF-based guidance, and personality development under the ANTIM-PAG program.

Do you provide study material and notes?

Yes. Students receive curated notes, strategic value additions, and daily/weekly study targets complementing NCERTs and standard books.

How can I contact the team for queries?

You can contact us via email at support@understandupsc.com or call our helpline at +91 8377072252.

Does UnderStand UPSC provide online classes?

Yes, we offer live online sessions, recorded lectures, and continuous mentorship support.

Are test series available separately?

Yes. We provide separate Prelims and Mains test series with detailed evaluation and feedback, aligned with our classroom programs.

Deepavali Intangible Cultural Heritage | UNESCO List Explained for UPSC

December 11, 2025

Sourse: The Hindu, Tags: 11 Dec 2025, GS-1 (Culture), Prelims: UNESCO

UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH)
• Under UNESCO 2003 Convention.
• Protects living traditions (rituals, performing arts, craftsmanship, social practices).
• Lists: Representative List, Urgent Safeguarding List, Good Safeguarding Practices.
• Aim: Safeguard, promote, ensure community participation.
• India is a signatory (2005).

Deepavali Addition
Deepavali added to UNESCO ICH Representative List due to its:
• Social significance (strengthens bonds)
• Cultural significance (civilisational ethos)
• Craft significance (traditional diya-making)
• Community-driven nature (practised by millions)

India Oman FTA Talks | PM Modi Oman Visit Explained for UPSC

December 11, 2025

Sourse: The Hindu, Tags: 11 Dec 2025, GS-2/3 (Economy), GS-2/3 (IR), Prelims: CEPA, Prelims: FTA

Context
• PM Modi and Commerce Minister Goyal expected to visit Oman to sign a Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
• India–Oman negotiations began in Nov 2023 for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
• Five rounds completed; all aspects agreed; final signing awaits formal approvals.
• India is also in final-stage FTA talks with New Zealand and the EU.

Prelims Notes:
What is a Free Trade Agreement (FTA)?
• Agreement between countries to reduce or eliminate tariffs on goods.
• Focus: Trade in goods, limited coverage of services.
• Aim: Cheaper imports/exports, increased trade flow.

What is a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA)?
• A broader, deeper trade pact.
• Covers: Goods, services, investments, IPR, digital trade, standards, regulatory cooperation.
• Aim: Long-term economic integration beyond just tariff cuts.

Marine Protected Areas India | Offshore Mining Exclusion Explained

December 11, 2025

Sourse: The Hindu, Tags: 11 Dec 2025, GS-3 (Environment), Prelims: MPAs, Prelims: Offshore Mining

Context
The government clarified in Lok Sabha that offshore mining blocks offered for auction do NOT overlap with Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). This comes after major protests in Kerala and concerns that offshore sand and mineral mining could harm marine biodiversity and fish stocks.

Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) — Prelims Notes
• Definition: MPAs are clearly defined marine zones where human activities are regulated to conserve biodiversity, ecosystems, and cultural resources.
• Legal Basis in India: Notified under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (as National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries, Conservation Reserves, etc.).
• Purpose:
• Protect marine species, coral reefs, fish breeding grounds.
• Prevent over-extraction and habitat destruction.

India’s MPAs:
• 130 Marine Protected Areas notified across coastal States and islands.
• Part of India’s broader Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) and marine biodiversity conservation efforts.

Russian Su-57 Fighter Jet | India’s Defence Response Explained

December 11, 2025

Sourse: The Hindu, Tags: 11 Dec 2025, GS-3 (Defence), Kamikaze Drones, Prelims: Su-57

Context
• Russia has again pushed India to consider buying Su-57 fifth-generation fighters, long-range drones, and submarines.
• India has shown a lukewarm response, prioritising indigenous defence production and self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat).
• Despite 19 agreements signed during President Putin’s visit, no breakthrough occurred on Su-57 or S-500 collaboration.
• India is now focusing heavily on domestic capability, defence production rising to ₹1.51 lakh crore (from ₹46,000 crore in 2014).
• Russia expected interest in platforms like the Geran kamikaze drones, but India has not shown strong intent.

What is the Su-57?
• Russia’s fifth-generation stealth multirole fighter.
• Designed by Sukhoi for air superiority + strike missions.

What are Kamikaze Drones?
• Also called loitering munitions.
• They loiter over an area, identify a target, and then self- destruct on impact, acting as both drone and missile.

ASEAN Regional Dispute | Truce Breakdown and Regional Impact

December 11, 2025

Sourse: The Hindu, Tags: 11 Dec 2025, GS-2 (Regional Groups), Prelims: ASEAN

Context
• Fighting has resumed between Thailand and Cambodia near the Preah Vihear temple area.
• Recent clashes killed soldiers, injured civilians, and displaced thousands.
• The ceasefire brokered earlier collapsed, increasing hostility and mistrust.
• The dispute threatens regional stability and adds pressure on ASEAN, which is already dealing with the Myanmar crisis.
About ASEAN
11 members (2025): Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Philippines, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar, Brunei, Timor-Leste.
• Founded: 1967 (Bangkok Declaration).
• HQ: Jakarta, Indonesia.

Core Principles:
• Non-interference
• Consensus-based decisions
• Regional peace and stability

Solutions Mentioned
• Regional powers Malaysia and Indonesia must take the lead
→ They have the influence to bring both sides back to negotiation.

• Immediate return to dialogue
→ ASEAN should push Thailand and Cambodia to talk without delay.

• Restore the ceasefire quickly
→ Ending active fighting is the first necessary step.

• Promote confidence-building measures
→ ASEAN must help reduce deep mistrust between the two countries.

• Prevent escalation that harms regional stability
→ ASEAN should ensure the crisis does not spread and damage Southeast Asia’s image of stability and cooperation.

11 Dec, 2025 | Daily Current Affairs

Deepavali Intangible Cultural Heritage | UNESCO List Explained for UPSC

India Oman FTA Talks | PM Modi Oman Visit Explained for UPSC

Marine Protected Areas India | Offshore Mining Exclusion Explained

Russian Su-57 Fighter Jet | India’s Defence Response Explained

ASEAN Regional Dispute | Truce Breakdown and Regional Impact

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11 Dec, 2025 | Daily Current Affairs

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