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.

SC asks govt. to regulate user content on Internet

November 28, 2025

Sourse: The Hindu, Tags: 28 Nov 2025, free speech vs. abuse, guidelines for user-generated content (GS2), Internet regulation, online safety

Context
The Supreme Court has raised concern over the unchecked spread of harmful, obscene, anti-national, and personally damaging user-generated content online. It noted that millions of innocent people become victims of online abuse, yet there is no clear regulatory mechanism to vet such content. Hence, the Court asked the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting to frame guidelines for user-generated content.

Important Articles

1. Article 19(1)(a)
Right to Freedom of Speech and Expression
• Protects citizens’ right to express opinions, including online speech.

2. Article 19(2)
Reasonable Restrictions on Free Speech
• Allows the State to impose reasonable restrictions in the interests of:
• Sovereignty & integrity of India
• Security of the State
• Public order
• Decency or morality
• Contempt of court
• Defamation
• Incitement to an offence
• This is the core constitutional basis for regulating harmful user-generated content.

The Kamalesan case and its simple lesson

November 28, 2025

Sourse: The Hindu, Tags: 28 Nov 2025, constitutional morality, Military discipline vs. conscience

1. Context
• Army soldier Samuel Kamalesan dismissed for refusing to remove shoes and enter a regimental temple during a mandatory parade.
• Delhi HC upheld dismissal; SC refused to interfere.
• Issue: Military discipline vs. individual conscience.

2. Central Argument
• Discipline is essential in the Army, but the institution should also show reasonable accommodation for sincere matters of conscience.
• The case sends an unfortunate signal that the Army may not value religious diversity and personal beliefs.

3. Key Points
• Soldier attended parade, obeyed commands, but objected only to temple entry due to conscience.
• Military is historically pluralistic (Sikh, Muslim, Hindu, Christian soldiers fight together).
• A small adjustment (allowing him not to enter temple sanctum) would not break discipline but preserve dignity.

4. Supreme Court Value Add (cases)
• Bijoe Emmanuel (1986): Conscientious objection must be respected if not harming others.
• Chinnappa Reddy J.: “Tolerance is our constitutional tradition.”
• Lesson: Institutions must balance discipline + tolerance.

5. Why It Matters
Rigid interpretation may erode:
• Unit cohesion in diverse forces
• Trust between soldiers and command
• The real test is finding a way for duty and conscience to coexist.

Case Study
Ravi Kumar, a soldier in a multi-faith Army regiment, was directed to participate in a regimental ceremony that involved entering a temple as part of unit tradition. Ravi followed all parade instructions but respectfully declined to enter the temple sanctum due to his personal religious beliefs. He was dismissed from service for disobedience.
The High Court upheld his dismissal, and the Supreme Court declined to intervene.

Answer the following:
(a) Identify the ethical issues involved in this case. (150 words)
(b) Evaluate whether the punishment given to Ravi was proportionate.
(c) Suggest ethically sound alternatives that balance military discipline with respect for individual conscience.

India and Indonesia make progress on BrahMos deal at Defence Ministers’ Dialogue

November 30, 2025

Sourse: The Hindu, Tags: 28 Nov 2025, BrahMos missile export, India–Indonesia defence cooperation, Indo-Pacific security (GS2 + GS3)

BrahMos?
• Supersonic cruise missile jointly developed by India (DRDO) and Russia (NPOM).
• Name = Brahmaputra + Moskva rivers.
• Speed: ~Mach 2.8–3.0 (3 times the speed of sound).
• Range: Initially 290 km → now extended to 450–500 km (and being tested up to 800 km).
• Launch platforms: Land, Air, Sea, and Submarine-launched versions.

IMF gives ‘C’ grade for India’s national accounts statistics

November 30, 2025

Sourse: The Hindu, Tags: 28 Nov 2025, economic surveillance (GS3), GDP/GVA data quality, IMF Article IV review, statistical weaknesses

Context
• The IMF’s annual Article IV review has rated India’s national accounts statistics (GDP & GVA data quality) at a ‘C’ grade, which is the second-lowest rating.
• This grade means India’s GDP data has methodological weaknesses and discrepancies that “hamper surveillance” i.e., they make it harder for IMF and policymakers to correctly assess India’s real economic health.
• The article comes at a time when India is preparing to release its Q2 national accounts data, making this assessment even more sensitive.

India’s food colouring woes and steps being taken to combat recurring issue

November 30, 2025

Sourse: The Hindu, Tags: 28 Nov 2025, Auramine-O dye, Food adulteration, FSSAI role, public health regulation (GS3)

What is Auramine O?
• Auramine O is a synthetic yellow industrial dye, widely used in:
• textile & leather processing
• printing inks
• paper manufacturing
• microbiological staining
• It has a bright yellow colour and is cheap, which is why it is misused in food.

Why is it dangerous?
• Not approved for use in food in India.
Linked with:
• liver & kidney damage
• enlargement of spleen
• mutagenic effects (genetic damage)
• potential carcinogenic outcomes
• Classified by IARC as possibly carcinogenic to humans.

What is FSSAI?
• FSSAI = Food Safety and Standards Authority of India
• It is a statutory body created under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.FSSAI: Under Which Ministry?
• FSSAI works under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), Government of India.

28 Nov, 2025

SC asks govt. to regulate user content on Internet

The Kamalesan case and its simple lesson

India and Indonesia make progress on BrahMos deal at Defence Ministers’ Dialogue

IMF gives ‘C’ grade for India’s national accounts statistics

India’s food colouring woes and steps being taken to combat recurring issue

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28 Nov, 2025

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