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.

Indian Navy MH-60R helicopter squadron Squadron in Goa | GS3

December 15, 2025

Source: The Hindu, Tags: 15 Dec 2025, GS3 – Defence

Context
The second Indian Navy squadron to operate the MH-60R Seahawk helicopter is the Indian Naval Air Squadron (INAS) 335, also known as the “Ospreys”.

The squadron is set to be officially commissioned on December 17, 2025, at INS Hansa in Goa.

Key Details
• Name: INAS 335 “Ospreys”.
• Location: INS Hansa, Goa.
• Aircraft: MH-60R Seahawk multi-role helicopters designed for anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, search and rescue, and medical evacuation.
• Procurement: Part of a contract for 24 aircraft signed with the United States government in February 2020.
• First Squadron: INAS 334 “Seahawks”, commissioned in March 2024 at INS Garuda, Kochi.

Nauradehi Tiger Reserve to Become New Cheetah Habitat | GS3

December 15, 2025

Source: The Hindu, Tags: 15 Dec 2025, GS3 – Environment

Context
The Madhya Pradesh government has approved the development of Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve (Nauradehi, Sagar district) as the third cheetah habitat in the State, expanding India’s cheetah reintroduction programme after Kuno National Park and Gandhi Sagar Tiger Reserve.

Are Methane Emissions in India Being Underestimated? | GS3

December 15, 2025

Source: The Hindu, Tags: 15 Dec 2025, GS3 – Environment

Context
Recent satellite-based observations indicate that methane emissions from Indian landfills and waste sites are significantly underreported in official estimates.

Prelims Focus (Facts & Static + Current Link)
Methane (CH₄): Greenhouse gas.
Global Warming Potential (GWP): 84× CO₂.
India’s methane profile: ~15% from waste sector.
Major methane sources: Open landfills, dumpsites, sewage outlets.

Mains Focus

Issue
• Dependence on model-based, State-level aggregated data.
• Ground monitoring is costly and difficult to scale.
• Leads to invisible high-emission hotspots.

Significance
• Methane is short-lived but highly potent, enabling rapid climate gains.
• Waste sector offers low-hanging mitigation opportunities.

Role of Technology
• Satellites pinpoint exact emission locations.
• Enable city-level and site-specific intervention.

Higher Education Regulatory Framework Bill Likely Soon | GS2

December 15, 2025

Source: The Hindu, Tags: 15 Dec 2025, GS2 – Education, GS2 – Governance

Context
The Union government plans to introduce the Viksit Bharat Shiksha Adhishthan Bill, 2025 to restructure and centralise the regulation of higher education by replacing existing statutory bodies with a new umbrella framework.

One-line takeaway
The Bill replaces multiple regulators with a single, ministry-linked higher education governance model.

Summary
• Creates Viksit Bharat Shiksha Adhishthan (VBSA) as the apex body.
• Brings regulation, accreditation and standards under one system.
• Subsume UGC, AICTE and NCTE into the new framework.
• Grant disbursal to be handled through Ministry of Education–devised mechanisms.

New structure
• Viksit Bharat Viniyaman Parishad → Regulation.
• Viksit Bharat Gunvatta Parishad → Accreditation.
• Viksit Bharat Manak Parishad → Standards.

Existing bodies (being subsumed)
• UGC → Funding and coordination.
• AICTE → Technical education regulation.
• NCTE → Teacher education regulation.

Sydney Jewish Event Gun Attack Leaves 11 Dead | GS3

December 15, 2025

Source: The Hindu, Tags: 15 Dec 2025, GS3 – Internal Security

Context
Gunmen attacked a Jewish festival Hannukah in Sydney, killing 11 people. Australian authorities called it a targeted terrorist attack on Hanukkah, triggering international condemnation and renewed concern over anti-Semitism and hate-based violence.

How this example can be used
• GS 3 – Internal Security → Hate-driven / identity-based terrorism; lone-wolf threat.
• GS 2 – International Relations → Need for global cooperation against terrorism and extremism.
• GS 4 – Ethics → Religious intolerance, hate crimes, erosion of pluralism.

PM 3-Nation Foreign Tour to Jordan, Ethiopia and Oman | GS2

December 15, 2025

Source: The Hindu, Tags: 15 Dec 2025, GS2 – International Relations

Context
PM Narendra Modi’s visit to Jordan, Ethiopia and Oman is a focused Global South outreach, linking West Asia and Africa to strengthen India’s political, economic and strategic partnerships.

Why these three countries?

Jordan
• Visit at the invitation of King Abdullah II.
• First full bilateral visit in 37 years; coincides with 75 years of diplomatic relations.
• Review of India–Jordan relations and discussion on regional issues.
• Engagement with Indian community and business leaders.

Ethiopia
• PM’s first-ever visit to Ethiopia.
• Talks with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed on bilateral cooperation.
• Reaffirms India as a trusted, long-term development partner for Africa, aligned with Agenda 2063.

Oman
• Visit at the invitation of Sultan Haitham bin Tarik.
• Marks 70 years of India–Oman diplomatic ties.
• Focus on India–Oman Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement and expanding trade relations.

15 Dec, 2025 | Daily Current Affairs

Indian Navy MH-60R helicopter squadron Squadron in Goa | GS3

Nauradehi Tiger Reserve to Become New Cheetah Habitat | GS3

Are Methane Emissions in India Being Underestimated? | GS3

Higher Education Regulatory Framework Bill Likely Soon | GS2

Sydney Jewish Event Gun Attack Leaves 11 Dead | GS3

PM 3-Nation Foreign Tour to Jordan, Ethiopia and Oman | GS2

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15 Dec, 2025 | Daily Current Affairs

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