UPSC Optional PSIR for Mains 2025: Smart Strategy for Paper 1 (Section B)

The UPSC Civil Services Mains examination stands as a fundamental and high-stakes component of the UPSC Civil Services Exam, collectively contributing a substantial 1750 marks. Within this, the optional subject for UPSC holds particular significance, accounting for a notable 500 marks. 

This crucial 500-mark segment is further divided across two distinct papers: Paper I and Paper II, with each carrying 250 marks. Given this significant weightage, performance in the optional papers can critically influence an aspirant’s overall score and final ranking.

To truly excel and maximize your scoring potential in the UPSC PSIR Optional papers, it is not merely about broad coverage but imperative to adopt a refined, data-driven approach. This necessitates a precisely targeted and strategic study plan, coupled with a finely tuned methodology designed to optimize your efforts for the highest possible returns. 

This article aims to serve as your comprehensive, one-stop guide, offering clear and actionable guidance on how to smartly prepare for Political Science & International Relations (PSIR) Optional. This approach will ensure you gain a decisive competitive advantage in this challenging examination.

UPSC PSIR Optional: An Overview

Political Science and International Relations (PSIR) is an all-encompassing optional subject that explores both domestic political structures and socio-economic dynamics, alongside global phenomena under International Relations. It investigates core concepts such as the evolution of the state and contemporary ideas of democracy, rights, liberty, equality, and justice. 

• PSIR further examines the complex nature of global politics, focusing on the dual aspects of inter-state relations, which can be either cooperative or conflictual. 
• The optional includes the study of comparative politics across different nations, key theories of international relations, and critical global issues such as terrorism, human rights abuses, and environmental challenges. 
• PSIR also covers the dynamics of multilateralism, its wide-ranging impact, and detailed aspects. 
• Additionally, PSIR investigates India’s diplomatic principles, the evolution of its foreign policy, and its bilateral relationships with other countries. 

With its broad scope, bridging various disciplines, PSIR stands out as a captivating yet challenging area of study. 

PYQ Mapping of PSIR PAPER 1 with Syllabus Topics

The UPSC Syllabus of PSIR is very exhaustive. In this blog we will understand the mapping of PYQ asked in Part B of Paper 1 for PSIR with the relevant syllabus topic. 

Section B—Indian Government and Politics
Topic/Unit	Micro Topic	Previous Year Questions
Indian Nationalism	Political Strategies of India’s Freedom struggle: constitutionalism to mass Satyagraha, Non-cooperation, Civil Disobedience; militant and revolutionary movements, Peasant and workers’ movements. Perspectives on Indian National Movement: Liberal, Socialist and Marxist; Radical humanist and Dalit.	1. Comment in 150 words: Satyagraha as a Strategy in the Indian National Movement. (2015) 2. The success of Mahatma Gandhi lay in transforming both political and non-political movements into a unified nationalist movement. Comment. (2017) 3. Differentiate Moderate Nationalism from Extremist/Militant Nationalism in terms of their objectives and means. (2017) 4. Comment in 150 words: Revolt of 1857 is a ‘Sepoy Mutiny’ or ‘First War of Independence’. (2018) 5. National movement in India was anti-imperialist and increasingly radical ·in its socio-economic and political programmes. Discuss. (2019) 6. Trace the role of militant and revolutionary movements in Indian national movement. (2020) 7. Analyse the workers’ movement in India in the pre-Independence period. (2022) 8. Comment on Satyagraha and Indian Nationalism. (2023) 9. Discuss the contribution of the Dalit struggle to establish egalitarianism in Indian society during freedom movement. (2024) 10. Critically examine the Radical Humanist perspective on Indian National Movement. (2016) 11. Dalit perspective on Indian national movement. Discuss. (2019) 12. Answer in 150 words: Role of Socialists in Indian National Movement. (2020) 13. Analyze the Marxist perspective of the nature of Indian National Movement. (150 words) (2021)
Making of Indian Constitution	Legacies of the British rule; different social and political perspectives	1. Unity and integrity of India was perhaps the single uppermost factor in the minds of the Constitution makers. Comment. (2019) 2. Answer in 150 words: Indian Constitution makers’ concerns on social inequality. (2020) 3. “The Constitution of India is a product of a historical process, rich with constitutional antecedents.” Comment. (150 words) (2021) 4. “The Constitution makers faced the great task of forging a common national identity in the face of unparalleled social and cultural diversity in India.” Comment. (150 words) (2021) 5. The making of the Indian Constitution is described as an attempt towards ‘social revolution’. Comment. (2022) 6. The Constitution of India is the ‘cornerstone of a nation’ (Granville Austin). Analyze. (2023) 7. Comment on imprint of the British Constitution on the Indian Constitution. (2023) 8. Write approximately 150 words on Objective Resolution of the Constituent Assembly. (2024)
Salient Features of the Indian Constitution	The Preamble, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Directive Principles; Parliamentary System and Amendment Procedures; Judicial Review and Basic Structure doctrine.	1. Comment in 150 words: Secularism in the Indian Constitution. (2015) 2. In the light of neo-economic policies adopted since 1991, examine the relevance of the term ‘socialist’ in the Preamble of the Indian Constitution. (2015) 3. Discuss the ‘Right to Education’ and the concerns raised by it. (2015) 4. Critically examine the provisions made in the Constitution for the protection of Environment. (2016) 5. Right to privacy is an intrinsic part of the right to life. Comment. (2017) 6. Comment in 150 words: Indian Constitution is a ‘Lawyers’ Paradise’. – Ivor Jennings. (2018) 7. Comment on the relevance of the Directive Principles of State Policy in an era of liberalization and globalization. (2019) 8. Answer in 150 words: Right to Constitutional remedies in India. (2020) 9. Mention the founding principles that define India’s Constitution. (150 words) (2021) 10. “Constitutionally reconciling the Fundamental Rights with the Directive Principles of State Policy has led to frequent amendments of the· Constitution and judicial interventions.” Comment. (2021) 11. The Preamble of the Indian Constitution reflects itself as a ‘social contract’. Elucidate. (2022) 12. The main goal of the fundamental duties in the Indian Constitution is to generate civic responsibility among the citizen. Explain. (2023) 13. Write approximately 150 words on Constitutional morality in the Indian Constitution. (2024) 14. Write approximately 150 words on Legal remedies in Part III of the Constitution of India. (2024) 15. How far do you agree that the Directive Principles of State Policy are more fundamental than the Fundamental Rights in meeting socio-economic justice as mentioned in the Preamble of the Constitution? (2024) 16. Differentiate parliamentary supremacy from parliamentary sovereignty. Would you consider the Indian Parliament as a Sovereign Parliament, Examine. (2017) 17. Discuss the efficacy of judicial review in India. (2015) 18. Comment: ‘Article 368 does not enable Parliament to alter the basic structure or framework of the Constitution’. (2016) 19. Comment: The purpose of the 42nd Constitutional Amendment was to make the economic and social democracy explicitly visible. (2016) 20. “The basic structure doctrine is implicit in the Indian Constitution; the Supreme Court has only given it an explicit for.” Comment. (2019) 21. Underline the significance of the first constitutional amendment. (150 words) (2021) 22. The Doctrine of Basic Structure of the Constitution has enhanced the power of judicial review of the Supreme Court. Examine. (2022)
Principal Organs of the Government	Principal Organs of the Union Government: Envisaged role and actual working of the Executive Legislature Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, Parliamentary Committees Principal Organs of the State Government Supreme Courts, High Courts; Judicial Activism; PIL	1. How is the President of India: elected? Outline the salient· characteristics of the electoral college of the Indian President. (2017) 2. Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) has emerged as the most powerful institution in India. Discuss. (2019) 3. Has the thrust of government tilted towards executive in contemporary Indian Politics? Give your arguments. (2020) 4. The role of the President of India becomes more significant during a minority government and a coalition government. Explain. (2021) 5. Analyse the arguments in favour and against the lateral entry into higher civil services in India. (2018) 6. Legislative Council is a house without any effective powers. Comment. (2022) 7. The Speaker represents the freedom and dignity of the House. Examine. (2022) 8. Write approximately 150 words on Relevance of the Legislative Council. (2024) 9. Critically analyze the discretionary powers granted to the Governor by the Indian Constitution. (2015) 10. Critically examine the role of Governor in recent times. (2016) 11. Do the lieutenant Governors have more powers than the Governors of the States? Explain. (2018) 12. Judiciary has acquired the role of both, a legislature and an executive in recent years. Examine with suitable examples. (2017) 13. Whether judicical activism has undermined or strengthened Parliamentary Democracy in India? Discuss. (2018) 14. Answer in 150 words: Judicial overreach in India. (2020) 15. Examine the evolution of the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court of India as a constitutional court. (2021) 16. Do you agree that over the years the Supreme Court has become a forum for policy evolution? Justify your answer. (2023)
Grassroot Democracy	Panchayati Raj and Municipal Government; Significance of 73rd and 74th Amendments; Grassroot movements.	1. Examine the role of Panchayati Raj Institutions and Urban Local Bodies in deepening of democracy in India. (2015) 2. The goal of Good governance will be achieved only by strengthening the grass root level democracy. (2016) 3. Has the 73rd Constitutional Amendment empowered women in panchayats in India? Discuss. (2017) 4. Comment in 150 words: New Panchayat Raj is an effective instrument for women empowerment. (2018) 5. Examine the provisions of Panchayat Extension Services Act (PESA), 1996. (2018) 6. Political decentralization has not been matched by administrative decentralization at the grass roots level. Explain. (2019) 7. To what extent has 73rd and 74th amendments of the Indian Constitution enhanced women’s empowerment? (2020) 8. Do you think that despite having significant limitations the Panchayati Raj Institutions have strengthened the process of democratic decentralization? Give your views. (2021) 9. Examine the unique features of the 73rd Constitutional Amendment. Do you think this Amendment would contribute in achieving the goal of empowerment of marginalized sections of the society? (2022) 10. Discuss the major provisions of the 74th Constitutional Amendment Act. Do you think that the Act remains an ‘unfulfilled dream’? Argue your case. (2023) 11. Comment on functions of District Planning Committee. (2023) 12. Gram Sabha in the Panchayati Raj system is a forum which gives expression to the collective wisdom, aspirations and the will of the people. Comment. (2024)
Stuatory Institutions/Commissions	Election Commission, Comptroller and Auditor General, Finance Commission, Union Public Service Commission, National Commission for Scheduled Castes, National Commission for scheduled Tribes, National Commission for Women; National Human Rights Commission, National Commission for Minorities, National Backward Classes Commission.	1. Examine the objective and role of the National Human Rights Commission. (2016) 2. Examine the role of the National Commission for Minorities in preserving, promoting and protecting the rights of minorities in India. (2017) 3. The Comptroller and Auditor-General of India enhances the accountability of the Government and serves as the watchdog of the finances of the Government. Explain. (2019) 4. Discuss, in brief, the role of the National Commission for Women. Do you think it is a toothless organization? (2019) 5. Examine the role and functioning of the Election Commission of India and the Comptroller and Auditor General in the last two decades. (2020) 6. “The success of electoral democracy can partly be attributed to the status and role of the Election Commission of India.” Explain. (2021) 7. How far is the National Commission for Backward Classes an empowered body? Assess its role in the context of rising demand for backwardness among dominant communities. (2022) 8. Comment on National Commission for Minorities. (2023) 9. Explain the structure and functions of the National Commission for Women. (2024)
Federalism	Federalism: Constitutional provisions; changing nature of centre-state relations; integrationist tendencies and regional aspirations; inter-state disputes.	1. Identify the contested areas in Centre-State relations in India. (2015) 2. Comment: The philosophy and Comment: Economic liberalisation in India administration of the distribution of powers between Centre and state is required to be re-assessed. (2016) 3. Indian federation has moved from cooperative federation to competitive federation. Comment. (2017) 4. Comment in 150 words: Implementation of GST and NEET is a major challenge to Indian federalism. (2018) 5. Discuss asymmetrical federalism in India. (2019) 6. Despite constitutional mandate, the Inter-State Council has not come of age. Discuss. (2020) 7. Answer in 150 words: Mechanism for settling inter-state disputes. (2020) 8. Does the functioning of the federalism in India tend to make it appear as a unitary state in practice? (2021) 9. Do you think that there has been a gradual shift in the basis on which the demands for the creation of new States have been raised in different regions of India? Explain. (2021) 10. Discuss the composition and functions of the Inter-State Council. To what extent has this body been successful in achieving its objectives? (2022) 11. Does the actual working of Indian federalism conform to the centralizing tendencies in Indian polity? Give reasons for your answer. (2023)
Planning and Economic Development	Nehruvian and Gandhian perspectives; the role of planning and public sector; Green Revolution, land reforms and agrarian relations; liberalization and economic reforms.	1. Comment in 150 words: Structure and Function of NITI Aayog. (2015) 2. Compare the Nehruvian and Gandhian models of development. (2015) 3. Critically examine the politics of Economic growth in India. (2016) 4. Land reforms have failed in the eradication of rural poverty. Comment. (2016) 5. In the post-liberalization era, Indian politics is moving from ascriptive politics to developmental politics. Comment. (2017) 6. What do you understand by Green Revolution? Do you think that a Second Green Revolution is needed to adequately address the agrarian challenge in contemporary India? Examine. (2017) 7. Exmine the various causes of agrarian crisis in India. (2018) 8. What has been the political fallout of the Green Revolution in India? Explain. (2019) 9. ‘Liberalisation of Indian Economy has not been accompanied with adequate reforms’. Comment. (2020) 10. What explains India’s modest improvements in social development outcomes even as the rate of growth has accelerated since the initiation of economic reforms? (2021) 11. Discuss the policy initiatives of the Fourteenth Finance Commission aimed towards promising and strengthening agricultural development in India. (2022) 12. How does NITI Aayog as a ‘policy think tank with a shared vision’ visualize the reorganization of planning in India? Justify your answer. (2023) 13. The legacy of the Planning Commission still has a bearing on India’s development policies. Discuss. (2024) 14. The blueprint of Gram Swaraj is the key to understand the Gandhian perspective on planning. Discuss. (2024)
Caste , Religion and Ethnicity in Indian Politics	Caste, Religion and Ethnicity in Indian Politics	1. Comment: Cultural and Regional differences are the enduring bases on which politics is played out in India. (2016) 2. Comment on the emergence of Backward classes in the Indian politics. (2016) 3. Religion is still an important factor in Indian politics. Discuss. (2017) 4. Critically examine the ethnic conflicts in North-East India. (2018) 5. Development has overshadowed the influence of caste in electoral behaviour in recent elections. Discuss. (2019) 6. Examine the role of religion in Indian Electoral Politics in the contemporary times. (2020) 7. Explain how caste as a social category is also becoming a political category in the democratic politics of India. (2021) 8. Ethnicity is the underlying cause which poses a great challenge in the resolution of the problems in the North-East region of India. Comment. (2022) 9. The rise of caste politics is to be attributed to both regional aspirations and electoral manifestations. Comment. (2023) 10. “Relative deprivation is a major source of ethnic conflict.” Elaborate the statement with relevant examples. (2024)
Party System	National and regional political parties, ideological and social bases of parties; patterns of coalition politics; Pressure groups, trends in electoral behaviour; changing socio-economic profile of Legislators.	1. “Identity politics has trumped development politics in India.” Comment. (2015) 2. Account for the rise of regional political parties and assess their role in contemporary India. (2015) 3. Discuss the pattern of Political Parties from one dominant party system to coalition politics in national politics. (2016) 4. State subvention/funding may be an effective instrument in strengthening electoral democracy in India. Comment. (2017) 5. India has moved from ‘one-party dominant system’ to ‘one-party led coalition’. Discuss. (2017) 6. Comment in150 words: Political personalities are more significant than political parties in India. (2018) 7. Explain the increasing role of regional political parties in the national politics. (2018) 8. The changing socio-economic profile of of legislators does not augur well for the health of Indian democracy. Comment. (2019) 9. To what extent has the inadequate intraparty democracy affected the functioning of Indian Democracy? (2020) 10. “The Indian party system is shaped by a complex interaction of the country’s federal structure, electoral system and social cleavages.” Explain. (2021) 11. How far is it correct that the regional parties have strengthened Indian democracy and federal system? Substantiate your answer with suitable examples. (2022) 12. Electoral behaviour of voters is governed more by the social and economic factors than the political factors. Explain. (2022) 13. The decade 1989-1999 has created an epochal shift in the Indian party system at the national level. Identify the major national trends in the party system during this era. (2023) 14. Critically assess the role of pressure groups in the decision-making process of the government. (2024)
Social Movements	Civil liberties and human rights movements; women’s movements; environmentalist movements	1. Discuss the Right to information and underline challenges being posed before it. (2016) 2. Critically analyse the environmentalist movement in Tuticorin, Tamilnadu. (2018) 3. Write short note on significance of the Chipko Movement. (2019) 4. Examine the nature of, the civil liberty movement in India. (2020) 5. High concentration of economic activities and consumption patterns in post-liberalisation period has led to the failure of environmental movements in India. Elucidate. (2022) 6. Dr. Ambedkar’s clarion call, “Educate, Agitate and Organize”, strategizes the Dalit movement towards achieving civil liberty. Discuss. (2023) 7. Comment on environmentalism of the poor. (2023) 8. Write approximately 150 words on Women’s role in anti-arrack movement. (2024) 9. Discuss the role of environmental movements in shaping the environmental governance in India. (2024)

Smart Strategy to Prepare for PSIR Paper 1: Section B—Indian Government and Politics 

A smart study strategy for PSIR Paper 1 Section B begins with a thorough analysis of Previous Year Questions (PYQs). This analysis helps identify recurring themes, important topics, and question patterns. Based on these insights, we recommend a targeted approach to focus on key areas, improving both efficiency and effectiveness in preparation.

Important Sources and Topics

This section delves into key concepts of Indian Government and Politics. Core readings and topics in this section include

Reference Books:

• An Introduction to Constitution- D.D. Basu
• An Introduction to Political Theory- O.P Gauba
• Fifty Major Political Thinkers- Ian Adams and R W Dyson
• A History of Political Thought: Plato to Marx – Subrata Mukherjee and Sushila Ramaswamy
• An Oxford Companion to Politics in India – Niraja Gopal Jayal and Pratap Bhanu Mehta
• Foundations Of Indian Political Thought- V.R Mehta
• A New Look at Modern Indian History- B.L Grover and Alka Mehta
• India’s Struggle for Independence – Bipan Chandra
• Indian Government and Politics – B L Fadia

Section B of PSIR Paper 1 can be broadly divided into three key areas: Indian Nationalism and Constitution, Indian Politics, and Social Movements. This section is dynamic, with a significant focus on current issues that require regular updates for comprehensive preparation. Below are some guidelines to approach the preparation effectively:

Key Topics and Approach 

1. Indian Nationalism

• This area is mostly static and requires a deep understanding of various scholars’ perspectives. Key scholars such as Bipin Chandra, Shekhar Bandopadhyay, and Anil Seal (Cambridge School) should be studied thoroughly.
• Focus on understanding their views on the evolution of Indian nationalism, key movements, and the role of prominent figures.

2. Polity and Constitution

• While this topic overlaps with GS Paper 2, the approach here is distinct. It requires an in-depth analysis of scholarly perspectives along with relevant case laws.
• For example, when studying the decline of Parliament, identify views from scholars such as Lord Bryce and Christophe Jaffrelot.
• Regular newspaper reading is crucial as this section is highly dynamic, and understanding contemporary developments in polity is essential.

3. Society and Social Movements

• Key topics such as civil liberties, human rights movements, and women’s movements demand a comprehensive understanding of various NGOs, civil society organizations, and important movements (e.g., MeToo Movement, LGBTQ+ Movement).
• It is important to refer to relevant case laws and understand how these movements have influenced social and political change in India.

4. Connecting Topics with Broader Principles

• For a holistic understanding, always try to connect specific topics with broader constitutional principles. For instance, while discussing issues related to the institution of Governor, link the topic to broader themes like Federalism.

5. Relevance of Reports and Commissions

• Recommendations of Commissions and Committees play a critical role in understanding reforms. For example, the 2nd ARC Report‘s suggestion to repeal the Official Secrets Act to improve the RTI Act (2005) is a vital point to note.

6. Use of Data and Statistics

• Incorporate relevant statistics and data when studying topics like electoral behavior, the socio-economic profile of legislators, and the performance of Parliament. Data enhances the understanding of the evolving political landscape.

By following these strategies, you can approach Section B with clarity, ensuring both static and dynamic aspects of the syllabus are comprehensively covered.

Effective Revision using Self-Notes:

One of the most effective strategies for preparing Section B is note-making. While studying various resources or reference books, students should make separate notes that include:

• Important quotes from political thinkers that highlight their core ideas.
• Key views or perspectives of scholars and their interpretations of political theories. 
• Relevance of specific quotes or ideas to modern political contexts. 

Effective Answer Writing Strategy

When preparing for PSIR Paper 1 Section B, a well-structured study strategy is crucial to achieving success. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help streamline your preparation and improve your exam performance:

1. Analysis of Previous Year Questions (PYQs)

• Identify Patterns: After reviewing core concepts from your notes, start solving a few PYQs. This practice helps you assess your understanding of the material and gauge how well you can apply theoretical knowledge to exam questions.
• Develop Answer Writing Techniques: Regular practice with PYQs helps refine your answer-writing skills. It familiarizes you with the language, format, and structure expected in the exam, ensuring you approach the questions effectively on exam day.

2. Mock Test Phase

• Sectional Tests: Begin with sectional tests that cover smaller portions of the syllabus. Gradually increase the complexity by progressing to full-length mock tests. This incremental approach helps you build confidence and adapt to the exam’s increasing difficulty.
• Simulation of Exam Conditions: Mock tests replicate the actual UPSC exam environment, allowing you to practice under timed conditions. This phase is essential for testing your overall readiness and identifying areas that require further attention.

3. Understanding Weaknesses and Refining Skills

• Evaluation of Mock Test Answers: After attempting mock tests, get your answers evaluated by subject experts. This will help you pinpoint areas of strength and highlight weaknesses in your approach to answering questions.
• Feedback and Improvement: Expert feedback is crucial for refining your answers and improving your exam strategy. If weaknesses are identified in content, focus on value addition by incorporating additional information or examples into your notes.
• Content Refinement: As you receive feedback, revisit your notes to fill any gaps in understanding or refine your knowledge of complex topics. This iterative process ensures that you are thoroughly prepared for the exam.

4. Time Management Mastery

• Enhancing Time Management: Mock tests help you manage time effectively during the exam. Practicing under time constraints teaches you how to pace yourself and allocate time efficiently to each section.
• Avoiding Last-Minute Rush: By simulating real exam conditions, mock tests reduce the risk of a last-minute rush. This preparation ensures that you are comfortable with the time limits, minimizing stress on the final day of the exam.

5. Building Confidence

• Boosting Confidence: Consistent practice with mock tests builds confidence and reduces exam anxiety. The more you practice, the more prepared you’ll feel, reinforcing your readiness for the PSIR Paper 1 Section B exam.

By following this strategy, you can develop a strong foundation, hone your answer-writing skills, and build confidence to tackle the exam with ease.

Final Strategy for PSIR Preparation

To conclude, the strategy for PSIR preparation in the UPSC exam is a key determinant of success. By following a well-structured approach—combining the analysis of PYQs, consistent mock test practice, and thorough revision—you can ensure a comprehensive and focused preparation. This strategy will help you score well, demonstrate your expertise, and stay motivated throughout your preparation journey.

With a balanced and methodical strategy, you will significantly improve your chances of securing a top rank and achieving your goal of becoming a civil servant. At Vision IAS, we hope this comprehensive strategy guide proves helpful to all UPSC aspirants with PSIR as their optional subject, assisting you in fine-tuning your preparation and optimizing your performance on exam day

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