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UPSC Bodo Literature Optional Syllabus for UPSC Mains 2024

Aditi Sinha August 21, 2023 05:00 6760 0

UPSC Bodo Literature Optional: Syllabus, toppers, books, and papers for comprehensive preparation. Reach your IAS goals efficiently.

UPSC Bodo Literature Optional Syllabus  for UPSC Mains 2024

Bodo literature Optional is included as a subject in the UPSC under the literature language optional category “Literature of any one of the following languages”. It is one of the 23 Literature languages in the UPSC list. 

If you have a genuine interest in Bodo literature  and are familiar with the language and its cultural context, choosing  this subject will make studying and preparing for the exam more enjoyable and motivating. This article will look closely at Bodo literature from all possible dimensions to help students do well and get high marks in this subject.

UPSC Bodo Literature Optional Subject

The Bodo Literature optional subject in the UPSC Civil Services Examination involves the study of literary works written in the Bodo language. Candidates opting for this subject must familiarize themselves with the history, major authors, literary forms, and themes of Bodo literature. Preparation for Bodo literature optional subjects involves the studying textbooks, anthologies, and critical essays. Developing a regular writing practice sharpens analytical and expressive skills. 

UPSC Bodo Literature Optional Paper Pattern

Like all other optional subjects of UPSC optional subject list, the subject is made up of two papers, Paper 1 and Paper 2, each paper carrying 250 marks. Each paper is divided into two sections. Each paper has a total of eight questions, divided equally into four questions. 

A candidate has to attempt any five questions. Question 1 and Question 5 are compulsory. Out of the remaining six, any three have to be attempted, with at least one from each section. Answers must be written in Bodo language only.

UPSC Bodo Literature Optional Exam Pattern
Particular Details
Total Papers Two, Paper I and Paper II
Total Marks 500 (250 Each)
Time allowed 3 Hours for each paper
Sections Section A and Section B
Questions Total 8 questions with subparts
Compulsory Question Question No. 1 and 5
Marks Distribution 10, 15, and 20 marker questions

UPSC Bodo Literature Optional Syllabus

The Bodo Literature optional syllabus for the UPSC exam consists of various topics like the Bodo homeland, language family, phonemes, and tones. It also covers plural suffixes, definitive, morphology, verbal suffixes, vocabulary, and its sources. If candidates have chosen Bodo literature as their optional subject, it is important to have a deep understanding of this syllabus. The Bodo Literature optional paper is considered easy to understand and learn, making it a scoring subject. By studying it well, candidates can achieve maximum marks in this exam. Syllabus of Bodo Literature is divided into two segments i.e Paper 1 and Paper 2.

UPSC Bodo Literature Optional Syllabus
UPSC Mains Bodo Literature Optional Syllabus Papers Topics
UPSC Bodo Literature Syllabus Paper 1 History of Bodo Language

History of Bodo Literature

UPSC Bodo Literature Syllabus Paper 2 First-hand reading of texts prescribed.

It aims to test the critical ability of the candidates.

UPSC Bodo Literature Optional Syllabus Paper 1

Paper 1 of the UPSC Bodo Literature Optional Syllabus consists of topics from the History of Bodo Language and Literature. Find the detailed Bodo Literature Syllabus for UPSC Paper 1 below. Answers must be written in Bodo. Answers must be written in Bodo.

Section A
History of Bodo Language
  1. Homeland, language family, its present status and its mutual contact with Assamese. 
  2. (a) phonemes : Vowel and Consonant Phonemes.
    (b) Tones.
  3. Morphology : Gender, Case and Case endings, Plural suffix, Definitives, Verbal suffix.
  4. Vocabulary and its sources.
  5. Syntax : Types of sentences, Word Order.
  6. History of scripts used in writing Bodo Language since inception.
Section B
History of Bodo Literature
  1. General introduction of Bodo folk Literature.
  2. Contribution of the Missionaries.
  3. Periodization of Bodo Literature.
  4. Critical analysis of different genres (Poetry, Novel, Short Story and Drama).
  5. Translation Literature.

UPSC Bodo Literature Optional Syllabus Paper 2 

The UPSC Bodo literature optional paper 2 syllabus covers different types of Bodo writing like poems, stories, and plays. It also looks at how these writings reflect Bodo culture and history. Candidates learn about famous Bodo writers and their works, and how these writings have evolved over time. They also study how Bodo literature is translated into other languages. The paper 2 will require first-hand reading of the texts prescribed and will be designed to test the critical ability of the candidates. Find the detailed syllabus below.

Section A

(a) Khonthai-Methai (Edited by Madaram Brahma & Rupnath Brahma) 

(b) Hathorkhi-Hala (Edited by Pramod Chandra Brahma) 

(c) Boroni Gudi Sibsa Arw Aroz : Madaram Brahma 

(d) Raja Nilambar : Dwarendra Nath Basumatary

(e) Bibar (prose section) (Edited by Satish Chandra Basumatary). 

Section B

(a) Bibi Bithai (Aida Nwi) : Bihuram Boro 

(b) Radab : Samar Brahma Chaudhury

(c) Okhrang Gongse Nangou : Brajendra Kumar Brahma 

(d) Baisagu Arw Harimu : Laksheswar Brahma 

(e) Gwdan Boro : Manoranjan Lahary 

(f) Jujaini Or : Chittaranjan Muchahary 

(g) Mwihoor : Dharanidhar Wary 

(h) Hor Badi Khwmsi : Kamal Kumar Brahma

(i) Jaolia Dewan : Mangal Singh Hozowary 

(j) Hagra Guduni Mwi : Nilkamal Brahma

Complete List Of Books for UPSC Bodo Literature Optional

It is advisable to candidates that they must choose books wisely from a wide range of options to score good marks in UPSC Bodo literature optional exam in IAS exam. The right books will help them cover all the topics easily and gain a better and more in-depth understanding of the exam sections. To ensure the best preparation, candidates can refer to the Bodo literature books and other subject-specific books mentioned below to excel in the exam.

Paper 1 Book List
State Textbooks of Assam These textbooks cover a wide range of topics related to Bodo language and literature and are a great starting point for your UPSC Bodo Optional preparation for Paper 1.
University Syllabus of Bodo Literature from North Assam Universities Universities like Bodoland University have well-developed curricula on Bodo literature, and referring to their syllabus can help you identify relevant resources.
Paper 2 Book List
Section A
  • Khonthai-Methai (Edited by Madaram Brahma & Rupnath Brahma)
  • Hathorkhi-Hala (Edited by Pramod Chandra Brahma)
  • Boroni Gudi Sibsa Arw Aroz: Madaram Brahma 
  • Raja Nilambar: Dwarendra Nath Basumatary 
  • Bibar (prose section) (Edited By Satish Chandra Basumatary) 
Section B
  • Bibi Bithai (Aida Nwi) by Bihuram Boro
  • Radab by Samar Brahma Chaudhury 
  • Okhrang Gongse Nangou by Brajendra Kumar Brahma
  • Baisagu Arw Harimu by Laksheswar Brahma
  • Gwdan Boro by Manoranjan Lahary
  • Jujaini Or by Chittaranjan Muchahary 
  • Mwihoor by Dharanidhar Wary
  • Hor Badi Khwmsi by Kamal Kumar Brahma
  • Jaolia Dewan by Mangal Singh Hozowary 

Advantages and Disadvantages Of UPSC Bodo Literature Optional 

UPSC Optional subjects are numerous and each subject has its own domain and that is why each subject has its own advantages and disadvantages depending on the interest and background of candidates. Still we try to find out some advantages and disadvantages of Bodo Optional subjects.

Advantages  Disadvantages
  • Less Competition: Since Bodo Literature is a less common choice compared to other optional subjects, you might face fewer competitors, potentially increasing your chances of scoring well.
  • Interest-Driven Preparation: Choosing a subject you’re genuinely interested in, like Bodo Literature, can make studying more enjoyable and less stressful.
  • Unique Answers: Bodo Literature allows for creative interpretations and analysis, leading to potentially unique and insightful answers that can impress examiners.
  • Stable Syllabus: Literature syllabuses tend to change less frequently than other subjects, so your preparation remains relevant for a longer period.
  • Improved Writing Skills: Extensive reading and analysis in Bodo Literature will significantly enhance your writing skills, beneficial for the entire UPSC exam.
  • Limited Resources: Compared to mainstream subjects, finding study materials and coaching specifically for Bodo Literature might be challenging.
  • Subjectivity: Evaluation in Literature exams can be subjective, meaning your score may depend on how well your interpretations align with the examiner’s perspective.
  • No General Studies Overlap: Unlike some optionals, Bodo Literature might not directly overlap with the General Studies papers, requiring separate dedicated study time.
  • Evaluator Bias: There’s a chance of encountering evaluators less familiar with Bodo Literature, potentially impacting your score.

How to Cover Bodo Literature Optional Syllabus For UPSC?

Getting a good score in the UPSC exam for Bodo literature needs careful planning and doing things step by step. It’s important to get help from different places to do well in the exam. If you’re getting ready for the Bodo literature part of the exam, you can do better by following these steps:

Complete the Syllabus:

  • Dividing the Syllabus:  Break down the UPSC Bodo Literature syllabus (Paper 1 & 2) into smaller, manageable topics. This will help candidates to plan their study schedule and identify areas that require more focus.
  • Identify Weightage: Candidates are advised to analyze previous years’ question papers to understand the weightage given to different sections within the syllabus. 

Build a Strong Foundation (Paper 1):

  • State Textbooks: Utilize textbooks prescribed by the Assam Board of Secondary Education for Bodo language and literature. These provide a solid foundation for Paper 1 topics.
  • University Resources: Refer to the syllabus of reputed North Assam universities like Bodoland University. Their curriculum often aligns well with the UPSC Bodo Literature syllabus.

Approach for Paper 2 (Literary Works):

  • Suggested Readings: Utilize the recommended texts mentioned earlier for Paper 2 (Section A & B).
  • Develop an Interpretation: Candidates should frame their own interpretations of the literary works, supported by textual evidence. This will help you craft unique and insightful answers in the exam.

Effective Study Techniques:

  • Note-Making: Develop a note-making system that works for candidates to summarise large topics in a concise format. Summarize key points, analyze concepts, and jot down interpretations for future reference.
  • Practice Answer Writing: Regularly practice writing answers to previous UPSC Bodo Literature question papers. Candidates should give time themselves and strive for clear, concise, and well-structured responses.

IAS Bodo Literature Optional Toppers Answer Sheet

Answer Sheets of the toppers who have given mock tests for Bodo Literature Optional can help candidates to get familiar with the writing style and flow of the answer which UPSC demands and can excel in this exam. The topper marksheet can be easily available to various blogs and telegram groups from where candidates can avail them and analyse it. 

Preparing for any optional subject is not enough without planning. If candidates are willing to choose Bodo Literature as their optional subject then they need to have a plan for both General Studies and Bodo Literature separately. This is because for literature candidates need to practice writing in the language script. Also candidates can look at previous successful candidates’ notes and watch their strategy videos to make their own plan for handling the challenges.

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