Aditi Sinha
August 17, 2023 04:30
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Learn PSIR Optional tips, strategies, and FAQs in this comprehensive article.
Discover how to do well in Political Science and International Relations (PSIR) for UPSC exams. Find out key tips, recommended books, and FAQs to help you do your best in the exam
Political Science and International Relations Optional, also known as PSIR, is a crucial optional subject among the list of optional subjects mentioned in the Civil Services Examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) in India. Among the various other subjects mentioned in the optional list of PSIR, Optional holds a significant attention due to its relevance, comprehensiveness, and scoring potential. In this article, we’ll explore various dimensions of PSIR Optional to give a holistic understanding and aid your preparation journey.
The PSIR Optional syllabus covers a vast array of topics spanning political science and international relations. It covers areas such as political theory, comparative politics, Indian government and politics, international relations theories, and contemporary political dynamics. Familiarizing yourself with the syllabus is essential to chart a structured preparation strategy and focus your efforts effectively. PSIR Optional paper consists of two papers i.e Paper I and Paper II. So the syllabus of PSIR Optional is divided according to the papers.
| UPSC PSIR Optional Syllabus | |
| Political Science Papers | Topics |
| Paper 1 | Section A- Political Theory and Indian Politics
Section B- Indian Government and Politics |
| Paper 2 | Section A- Comparative Political Analysis and International Politics
Section B- India and the World |
The PSIR Syllabus Paper 1 is divided into two sections. The first section covers political theories and ideologies, while the second delves into Indian polity and nationalism. Find the detailed PSIR Syllabus UPSC for Paper 1 below.
| Political Theory and Indian Politics | |
| 1. Political Theory | Meaning and approaches. |
| 2. Theories of state | Liberal, Neo-liberal, Marxist, Pluralist, post-colonial and Feminist. |
| 3. Justice | Conceptions of justice with special reference to Rawl’s theory of justice and its communitarian critiques. |
| 4. Equality | Social, political and economic; relationship between equality and freedom; Affirmative action. |
| 5. Rights | Meaning and theories; different kinds of rights; Concept of Human Rights. |
| 6. Democracy | Classical and contemporary theories; different models of democracy—representative, participatory and deliberative. |
| 7. Concept of Power | Hegemony, Ideology and Legitimacy. |
| 8. Political Ideologies | Liberalism, Socialism, Marxism, Fascism, Gandhism and Feminism |
| 9. Indian Political Thought | Dharamshastra, Arthashastra and Buddhist Traditions; Sir Syed Ahmed Khan, Sri Aurobindo, M. K. Gandhi, B. R. Ambedkar, M. N. Roy. |
| 10. Western Political Thought | Plato, Aristotle, Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, John S. Mill, Marx, Gramsci, Hannah Arendt. |
| Indian Government and Politics | |
| 1. Indian Nationalism | Political Strategies of India’s Freedom Struggle:
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| 2. Making of the Indian Constitution |
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| 3. Salient Features of the Indian Constitution |
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| 4. Principal organs of the government |
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| 5. Grassroots Democracy |
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| 6. Statutory Institutions/Commissions |
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| 7. Federalism |
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| 8. Planning and Economic Development |
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| 9. Caste, Religion and Ethnicity in Indian Politics |
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| 10. Party System |
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| 11. Social Movement |
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In Paper 2 of the UPSC PSIR Optional Syllabus, the topics are divided into two main sections: Comparative Politics and International Relations. The Comparative Political Analysis section focuses on studying and analyzing politics across different countries, while the International Politics and India and the World section covers topics related to global politics and India’s relations with other nations.
| Comparative Political Analysis and International Politics | |
| 1. Comparative Politics |
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| 2. State in Comparative Perspective |
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| 3. Politics of Representation and Participation |
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| 4. Globalisation |
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| 5. Approaches to the Study of International Relations |
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| 6. Key Concepts in International Relations |
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| 7. Changing International Political Order |
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| 8. Evolution of the International Economic System |
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| 9. United Nations |
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| 10. Regionalisation of World Politics |
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| 11. Contemporary Global Concerns |
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| India and the World | |
| 1. Indian Foreign Policy |
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| 2. India’s Contribution |
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| 3. India and South Asia |
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| 4. India and the Global South |
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| 5. India and the Global Centres of Power |
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| 6. India and the UN System |
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| 7. India and the Nuclear Question |
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| 8. Recent developments in Indian Foreign Policy |
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The PSIR Optional Syllabus of paper is divided into two parts: Paper I and Paper II. Paper I primarily delves into political theory and Indian politics, exploring concepts such as political thinkers, ideologies, and the functioning of the Indian political system. Paper II, on the other hand, focuses on international relations, covering topics like global governance, foreign policy, and strategic issues. Both papers aim to assess candidates’ understanding, analytical skills, and ability to articulate their ideas coherently.
Political Science and International Relations (PSIR) is a popular choice for the UPSC optional subject among aspirants. Here are some compelling reasons why you should consider choosing Political Science and International Relations for the UPSC exam:
Learning from Topper Copies for UPSC Exam Preparation
Analyzing topper copies from previous years can provide invaluable insights into effective exam preparation strategies. Topper copies offer a glimpse into how successful candidates approached the examination, structured their answers, and addressed the demands of the question paper. By studying topper copies, aspirants can refine their writing skills, understand the expectations of the examiners better, and adapt successful strategies to their own preparation.
Creating comprehensive and well-organized notes is indispensable for PSIR Optional preparation. Candidates often draw from a variety of sources, including textbooks, reference materials, online resources, and coaching institute notes, to compile their study material. Systematic note-taking facilitates better retention of key concepts, aids in quick revision, and serves as a valuable resource during the exam preparation period.
Previous year questions (PYQs) serve as valuable resources for PSIR Optional preparation. Analyzing PYQs allows aspirants to familiarize themselves with the exam pattern, understand the types of questions asked, and identify important topics. Regular practice with PYQs helps candidates gauge their preparation level, refine their answering techniques, and build confidence ahead of the examination.
UPSC PSIR Optional Previous Year Question Papers |
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| Year | UPSC PSIR Optional Question Papers PDF Link |
| 2023 | UPSC PSIR Optional Paper 1 |
| 2022 | UPSC PSIR Optional Question Paper 1
UPSC PSIR Optional Question Paper 2 |
| 2021 | UPSC PSIR Optional Question Paper 1
UPSC PSIR Optional Question Paper 2 |
| 2020 | UPSC PSIR Optional Question Paper 1
UPSC PSIR Optional Question Paper 2 |
| 2019 | UPSC PSIR Optional Question Paper 1
UPSC PSIR Optional Question Paper 2 |
| 2018 | UPSC PSIR Optional Question Paper 1
UPSC PSIR Optional Question Paper 2 |
Selecting the right books is crucial for PSIR Optional preparation. Numerous textbooks, reference materials, and study guides are available in the market, catering to different aspects of the syllabus. Aspirants often consult renowned authors and publications to gain a deeper insight into key concepts and theories, supplementing their understanding and enhancing their preparation.
The PSIR Optional question paper is designed to evaluate candidates’ critical thinking abilities, analytical skills, and depth of understanding. It comprises a mix of descriptive, analytical, and interpretative questions that require candidates to demonstrate their knowledge and comprehension of various concepts. Practicing answer writing is essential to develop clarity of thought, refine writing skills, and effectively communicate ideas during the examination.
PSIR stands for Political Science and International Relations. It encompasses the study of political systems, theories, ideologies, institutions, and processes at both the national and international levels. PSIR Optional offers candidates an opportunity to delve into these areas, gain a comprehensive understanding of political dynamics, and develop a nuanced perspective on contemporary issues.
In conclusion, mastering PSIR Optional demands dedication, perseverance, and a strategic approach to preparation. By understanding the syllabus, analyzing previous year questions, studying recommended books and notes, and practicing answer writing, aspirants can enhance their chances of success in the Civil Services Examination. With meticulous preparation and unwavering determination, achieving proficiency in PSIR Optional is within reach, paving the way for a rewarding career in the civil services.
| Must Read | |
| NCERT Notes For UPSC | UPSC Daily Current Affairs |
| UPSC Blogs | UPSC Daily Editorials |
| Daily Current Affairs Quiz | Daily Main Answer Writing |
| UPSC Mains Previous Year Papers | UPSC Test Series 2024 |
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