Paper-I
(a) History of Modern India and Indian Culture-
1) The History of Modern India will cover the following : * History of India since 1857 * Important personalities who shaped the Freedom Movements in Odisha and India * Social Reform Movements
2) Indian culture will cover the following; * Indian culture from ancient times to modern times * Temple architecture of Odisha. * Socio-cultural developments in Odisha
(b) Geography of India will cover the following- * Physical, economic and social geography of India. * Odisha’s Physiography and Drainage system * Odisha’s Natural Resources – Water, forest and minerals.
(c) Indian Polity will include the following- * Constitution of India * Political system of India * Government and politics in Odisha * Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) in Odisha.
(d) Current National issues and topics of social relevanceThis part is intended to test the candidate’s awareness of current national issues and topics of social relevance in the present day India such as; 1. Demography & Human Resource Development 2. Behavioural & Social issues and Social Welfare problems : Child labour, gender inequality, adult literacy, rehabilitation of the handicapped and other deprived segments of society, drug abuse, public health, education and unemployment.
(e) Legal and environmental issues – 1. Human Rights 2. Corruption in public life 3. Communal harmony 4. Protection of minorities 5. Internal security and related issues 6. Environment and ecological issues; ecological preservation, conservation of natural resources and national heritage. 7. Role of national institutions, their relevance and need for change
Paper-II
(a) India and the World : This part is intended to test candidate’s awareness of India’s relationship with the world in various spheres, such as the following; 1. Foreign Affairs 2. External security and related matters 3. Nuclear policy 4. Indians abroad
(b) Indian Economy : 1. This part will include the following; I Planning, economic development, economic reforms and development of the Corporate Sector in India II Economic and Trade issues III Foreign trade IV Role and functions of IMF, World Bank and WTO V Reserve Bank of India – its role and functions 2. I. Odishan Economy : Development during the post Reform Period. II. Regional disparity
(c) International Affairs & Institutions : This part will include the following; 1 . Important events in world affairs 2. International institutions like UN, ILO, EU, SAARC, WHO, ICJ
(d) Developments in the field of science & technology, communications and space : In this part questions will test the candidate’s awareness of the developments in the field of science and techonology, communications and space and also on basic ideas of computer;
(e) Statistical Analysis, Graphs & Diagrams : This part will include exercises to test the candidates ability to draw common sense conclusions from information presented in graphical, statistical or diagrammatical form and to point out deficiencies, limitations or inconsistencies therein. The candidates should also be aware of techniques of counting and elementary probability.
FAQs on General Studies of Odisha
What topics are covered in the General Studies (GS) papers of the OCS exam?
The OPSC OCS Exam has four General Studies papers in the Mains exam:
- GS Paper I: History of Modern India and Indian Culture, Geography of India, Indian Polity and Governance, Current National issues and topics of social relevance.
- GS Paper II: Indian Economy and Social Development, General Science & Technology, Environment and Ecology, Statistical Analysis, Graphs and Diagrams.
- GS Paper III: Disaster Management, Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude in Governance, Odisha’s Economy and Planning, Problems of Development.
- GS Paper IV: Odisha’s History, Geography, Environment, and contemporary developments in the State.
How should I approach the preparation for General Studies?
- Understanding the Syllabus: Thoroughly understand the syllabus and subtopics of each GS paper.
- Reference Books: Refer to standard textbooks and reference books for each subject. NCERT books are a good starting point for building a foundation.
- Current Affairs: Stay updated with current events related to Odisha, India, and the world. Read newspapers, magazines, and online sources.
- Previous Year Papers: Analyze previous year question papers to understand the pattern and types of questions asked.
- Mock Tests: Take regular mock tests to assess your preparation level and identify areas for improvement.
- Note-making: Make concise notes of important topics for quick revision.
What are some recommended books for General Studies preparation?
Some recommended books for GS preparation include:
- History:
- A Brief History of Modern India by Spectrum
- India’s Struggle for Independence by Bipan Chandra
- History of Odisha by various authors (e.g., Kartik Chandra Rout, N.K. Sahu)
- Geography:
- Certificate Physical and Human Geography by Goh Cheng Leong
- Geography of India by Majid Husain
- Geography of Odisha by various authors
- Polity:
- Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth
- Economy:
- Indian Economy by Ramesh Singh
- Economic Survey of Odisha
- Environment:
- Environment by Shankar IAS Academy
- Environmental Studies: From Crisis to Cure by R. Rajagopalan
How important are current affairs for General Studies?
Current affairs are extremely important for GS preparation, especially for Paper I and Paper II. They help you understand the contemporary issues and their impact on society, economy, and polity. Make sure to regularly read newspapers, magazines, and online sources to stay updated.
How can I improve my answer writing skills for General Studies?
- Practice writing answers regularly: Try to answer previous year’s questions and mock test questions within the time limit.
- Structure your answers: Follow a logical structure – introduction, body, and conclusion.
- Include relevant examples and data: Use examples and data to support your arguments.
- Write in clear and concise language: Avoid jargon and unnecessary details.
- Review your answers: Get feedback from mentors or peers to identify areas for improvement.
Are there any online resources available for General Studies preparation?
Yes, several online platforms offer resources for GS preparation, including:
- [invalid URL removed]: Provides comprehensive study materials, mock tests, and current affairs updates.
- Unacademy: Offers various courses and lessons on different GS topics.
- Byju’s: Provides video lectures, study materials, and mock tests.