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.

Samagra Shiksha 3.0 Roadmap for School Education | UPSC GS-2

January 10, 2026

Source: The Hindu, Tags: 10 Jan 2026, Education, GS2

Samagra Shiksha 3.0
• The Centre is consulting States on Samagra Shiksha 3.0, focusing on school governance, teacher training, infrastructure and technology, aiming for 100% enrolment up to Class XII under Viksit Bharat @2047.

Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA)
• Integrated Scheme for School Education
• Launched: 2018
• Coverage: Pre-school to Class XII

Merged Schemes
• SSA: Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan
• RMSA: Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan
• TE: Teacher Education

Samagra Shiksha 2.0
• Launched: 2021
• Period: 2021–26
• Aligned with: NEP 2020
• Objective: Improve access, equity and quality in school education

Gold ETF Inflows Rise Amid Global Uncertainty | UPSC Economy GS-3

January 10, 2026

Source: The Hindu, Tags: 10 Jan 2026, Economy, GS3

Context
In December 2025, Gold ETFs received record inflows, outperforming equity funds amid global macro-economic uncertainty and risk-off sentiment. Investors shifted towards gold as a safe-haven asset, while equity inflows declined.

ETF (Exchange Traded Fund)
• Market-traded investment fund
• Traded on stock exchanges like shares
• Tracks an index, commodity, bond or asset
• Combines features of mutual funds and stocks
• Low cost, transparent, and liquid

Gold ETF
• ETF that tracks the price of physical gold
• Each unit represents gold of high purity
• No physical delivery; held in demat form
• Eliminates storage and purity risks
• Used for hedging, diversification and safe-haven investment

Budget Session of Parliament: President’s Address and Union Budget | UPSC GS-2

January 10, 2026

Source: The Hindu, Tags: 10 Jan 2026, GS2, Polity

Budget Session & President’s Address
• Budget Session: Begins Jan 28, ends Apr 2, held in two phases
• Starts with: President’s Address
• Union Budget: Likely presented on Feb 1
• Recess: Used by Department-related Standing Committees to examine demands for grants

President’s Address
• Address to both Houses at start of first session each year & after General Election (Art. 87)
• Lays down policies and programmes of the Government
• Drafted by Council of Ministers (Art. 75(3))
• President’s right to address/send messages: Art. 86
• Summoning of Parliament: Art. 85
• Followed by Motion of Thanks

Union Budget
• Constitutional provision: Article 112
• Annual statement of receipts and expenditure
• Prepared by: Ministry of Finance (Department of Economic Affairs)
• Presented by: Finance Minister in Lok Sabha
• Types: Revenue Expenditure and Capital Expenditure

International Solar Alliance and India’s Commitment to Multilateralism | UPSC GS-2

January 10, 2026

Source: The Indian Express, Tags: 10 Jan 2026, GS2, IR

Context
After the US withdrew from 66 international organisations, including the International Solar Alliance (ISA), India reaffirmed its commitment to multilateralism.
India flagged possible funding and leadership gaps in such institutions but stated it will continue to support and strengthen ISA.

International Solar Alliance (ISA)
• Type: Treaty-based intergovernmental organisation
• Launched: 2015 (COP-21, Paris)
• Founders: India and France
• Headquarters: Gurugram, Haryana
• Members: 120+ countries (open to all UN member states)
• Objective: Promote global solar energy deployment
• Target: Mobilise ~USD 1 trillion for solar energy by 2030 (aspirational)

Next Generation Launch Vehicle and ISRO’s Future Missions | UPSC GS-3

January 10, 2026

Source: The Hindu, Tags: 10 Jan 2026, GS3, Space Tech

ISRO & Launch Vehicles
• ISRO has achieved repeated mission successes, but the key challenge now is shifting from one-time achievements to routine, large-scale execution.
• Future success depends on institutional capacity, legal and regulatory clarity, manufacturing depth, and private sector participation, not only technology.
• Focus areas ahead include human spaceflight, Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV), and handling multiple complex missions simultaneously.

Launch Vehicles

PSLV (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle)
• Stages: 4
• Fuel: Solid → Liquid → Solid → Liquid
• Orbit: LEO / Polar / Sun-synchronous
• Payload: Light–medium
• Role: Earth-observation, commercial launches
• Key trait: Highly reliable, no cryogenic stage

GSLV
• Stages: 3
• Fuel: Solid core → Liquid → Cryogenic
• Orbit: Geosynchronous (GTO)
• Payload: Heavy
• Role: Communication satellites
• Key trait: Cryogenic engine enables heavy-lift capability

NGLV (Next Generation Launch Vehicle)
• Stages (proposed): 3
• Fuel: Liquid → Liquid → Cryogenic
• Purpose: Heavy-lift, reusable, cost-efficient launches
• Role: Human spaceflight, space station modules, deep-space missions
• Significance: Future backbone of India’s space programme

10 Jan 2026 | Daily Current Affairs

Samagra Shiksha 3.0 Roadmap for School Education | UPSC GS-2

Gold ETF Inflows Rise Amid Global Uncertainty | UPSC Economy GS-3

Budget Session of Parliament: President’s Address and Union Budget | UPSC GS-2

International Solar Alliance and India’s Commitment to Multilateralism | UPSC GS-2

Next Generation Launch Vehicle and ISRO’s Future Missions | UPSC GS-3

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10 Jan 2026 | Daily Current Affairs

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