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.

Govt Withdraws Order on Sanchar Saathi App | Sanchar Saathi App UPSC Current Affairs

December 4, 2025

Sourse: The Hindu, Tags: 4 Dec 2025, GS-2, Vulnerable Groups

Sanchar Saathi App

What is it?
A telecom security & citizen-service platform by DoT.

Key Features
• Block/trace lost or stolen phones
• Check SIMs issued in your name
• Identify fraudulent or cloned connections

Why in News?

DoT issued an order to mandatorily pre-install the Sanchar Saathi app on all new smartphones from next year.
This led to backlash due to privacy concerns, lack of consent, and fear of surveillance.

Government’s Latest Directive

Order withdrawn.
The app will remain voluntary, not pre-installed.

Why Withdrawn?

• Spike in voluntary downloads (6 lakh in one day; 10× increase)
• Strong public backlash (users, civil society, Opposition)
• DoT said the aim was awareness, now already achieved.

EU to Ban Russian Gas Imports by 2027 | EU Russian Gas Ban UPSC IR Update

December 4, 2025

Sourse: The Hindu, Tags: 4 Dec 2025, Energy Security, IR

Quick Note

• EU agreed to ban all imports of Russian gas by autumn 2027.
• Goal: Cut off revenue funding Russia’s war in Ukraine.
• Includes pipeline + LNG imports.
• Part of EU strategy to diversify energy sources and reduce dependence on geopolitical adversaries.

Rupee Depreciation Amid Unclear Trade Deal | Rupee Depreciation UPSC Economy Update

December 4, 2025

Sourse: The Hindu, Tags: 4 Dec 2025, Economy, Forex

Key Reasons for Rupee Depreciation

Delay in U.S.–India Trade Deal
• Trade deal pending for 6–7 months.
• Markets not able to “price in” the deal → uncertainty weakens rupee.
Lack of Clear Communication from Indian Authorities
• Limited clarity from RBI and government on rupee management.
• Creates speculation and nervousness among investors.
Foreign Investors Selling Indian Assets
• FIIs moved money to U.S., Europe, Korea, Japan.
• Causes capital outflow → rupee weakens.
Strength of U.S. Dollar Globally
• Higher dollar demand due to U.S. economic conditions.

RBI’s Lower Intervention
• Current governor less interventionist; RBI selling fewer dollars → weaker defence of rupee.

SC Highlights Gaps in Support for Acid Attack Survivors | Acid Attack Survivors UPSC News

December 4, 2025

Sourse: The Hindu, Tags: 4 Dec 2025, GS-2, Vulnerable Sections

Context

The Supreme Court noted that acid attack survivors are still not receiving the mandatory ₹3 lakh compensation or free critical care at private hospitals, despite repeated SC orders (2006, 2013, 2015).
SC asked why delays persist and directed State Chief Secretaries and NALSA to ensure compliance.

UPSC Mains Notes

1. Key Issues Identified by SC
• Delayed/incomplete ₹3 lakh compensation
• Private hospitals refusing free treatment until victims pay first
• Weak enforcement by district legal services authorities
• Slow processing of claims

2. SC Directions (Recent + Past)
• Minimum ₹3 lakh compensation; ₹1 lakh within 15 days, remainder in 2 months
• Free treatment at private hospitals; refusal = criminal liability
• District authorities to act as Criminal Injuries Compensation Boards
• Survivors can approach State/DLSA for delays
• NALSA to collect data and ensure compliance; orders to be sent to Chief Secretaries3. Why This Matters
• Acid attack survivors = vulnerable group needing medical + legal protection
• Shows implementation gap despite strong judicial framework
• Highlights need for accountability, compensation, and victim-centric justice

States Must Follow Samagra Shiksha Guidelines for Funding | Samagra Shiksha UPSC Update

December 4, 2025

Sourse: The Hindu, Tags: 4 Dec 2025, Education, GS-2

Context

• Centre clarified that funds under Samagra Shiksha will be released only when States meet scheme conditions (utilisation certificates, audits, progress reports).
• MPs asked whether States were being forced to accept NEP 2020 or PM-SHRI to receive funds.
• Government said no — fund release is scheme-based, not political.

Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan — Prelims Essentials

A Centrally Sponsored Scheme (launched 2018) integrating:

SSA – Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan
RMSA – Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan
Teacher Education

Key Features
• Holistic school education Pre-primary → Class 12
• School infrastructure, teacher training, quality improvement
• Strong focus on FLN (Foundational Literacy & Numeracy)

Funding pattern
• 60:40 → General States
• 90:10 → NE & Himalayan States
• 100% → UTs

PM-SHRI (PM Schools for Rising India) — Prelims Points

• Launched: 2022
• 14,500 schools to be upgraded as model NEP schools
• Emphasis on green schools & sustainability, smart classrooms, experiential learning
• Voluntary — States join via MoU, not compulsory.

Why Volcanic Ash is a Threat to Aircraft Safety | Volcanic Ash UPSC Prelims Topic

December 4, 2025

Sourse: The Hindu, Tags: 4 Dec 2025, Geog, Prelims

Context

• Hayli Gubbi volcano, northern Ethiopia erupted on 23 November after ~12,000 years.
• Sent ash plumes up to ~14 km into the sky.
• Ash cloud travelled across the Red Sea and Arabian Peninsula and even reached India’s western border.
• DGCA issued an advisory to airlines to steer clear of affected altitudes/areas.

How Volcanic Ash Impacts Aircraft — Step by Step

Ash enters jet engine
• Engine sucks in air + ash instead of clean air.
Melting inside engine
• Inside temperature: ~1,400–1,600°C.
• Ash (fine rock/glass) melts and becomes a glassy liquid.
Deposits on hot parts
• Melted ash sticks to turbine blades and other hot components.
Blocks cooling & airflow
• Forms a glassy coating, blocking tiny cooling holes.
• Chokes airflow inside the engine.
Engine damage/shutdown
• Causes overheating, loss of power, compressor stall.
• Engine can lose thrust or completely shut down.

Other effects on aircraft
• Ash abrades windscreens → poor visibility.
• Can clog sensors and contaminate cabin/air filters.

India’s Humanitarian Relief for Pregnant Woman in Bangladesh | Humanitarian Relief UPSC News

December 4, 2025

Sourse: The Hindu, Tags: 4 Dec 2025, GS-2, Humanitarian Relief

What is the Issue?

• A pregnant Indian woman (Sunali Khatun) and her eight-year-old son were deported to Bangladesh by authorities despite her family claiming Indian citizenship.
• Her father approached the courts arguing that the deportation was wrongful and that mother and child should not be separated.
• The Supreme Court intervened, directing the Union government and West Bengal government to arrange medical care, safe return, and humanitarian assistance.
• The Centre agreed to bring them back purely on humanitarian grounds, without affecting the merits of the deportation case.

Mains Enrichment

1. Judicial Humanitarian Intervention
SC ensured return and care of the woman and child purely on humanitarian grounds.

2. Protection Against Administrative Overreach
SC checked arbitrary deportation actions and upheld due process.

TDF

“Despite scientific evidence proving leprosy is curable and non-infectious, discriminatory laws persist in India. Discuss the role of the Supreme Court in correcting such legal inertia.” (150 words)

Discriminatory Leprosy Laws in India Explained | Leprosy Laws UPSC Current Affairs

December 4, 2025

Sourse: The Hindu, Tags: 4 Dec 2025, GS-2, Vulnerable Groups

Mains Enrichment — Leprosy

• India reports ~57% of global leprosy cases.
• Caused by Mycobacterium leprae.
• One of the earliest known human infections — evidence from 2000 BCE.
• Genetic predisposition + unsanitary living conditions raise susceptibility.

Discriminatory Laws Data

• 97 Central & State laws still discriminate against leprosy-affected persons.

Restrictions include:
• Access to public transport
• Employment restrictions
• Discriminatory terminology in statutes

NHRC 2021 Report Recommendations

• Early identification & timely treatment
• Rehabilitation
• Remove discriminatory laws
• Replace derogatory terms
• Use iris scans for Aadhaar (since leprosy affects fingerprints)

What the Supreme Court has Done?

1. SC took suo motu-like corrective action
• Heard petitions claiming Indian laws still discriminate against persons with leprosy.

2. Sought NHRC report
• NHRC submitted that 97 laws still contain discriminatory provisions.

3. Directed Centre, States & UTs
• To submit status reports on steps taken to remove these laws.
• To take urgent remedial measures.

Why This is Good??

• Promotes dignity, equality, and non-discrimination for a vulnerable group.
• Aligns with constitutional rights — Article 14, 15, 21.
• Corrects historical injustice and stigma rooted in fear and misinformation.
• Encourages scientific, evidence-based policymaking.
• Supports rehabilitation and mainstreaming of leprosy-affected individuals.

4 Dec, 2025

Sanchar Saathi App

Why in News?

Government’s Latest Directive

Why Withdrawn?

Quick Note

Key Reasons for Rupee Depreciation

Context

UPSC Mains Notes

Context

Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan — Prelims Essentials

PM-SHRI (PM Schools for Rising India) — Prelims Points

Context

How Volcanic Ash Impacts Aircraft — Step by Step

What is the Issue?

Mains Enrichment

TDF

Mains Enrichment — Leprosy

Discriminatory Laws Data

NHRC 2021 Report Recommendations

What the Supreme Court has Done?

Why This is Good??

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