The UPSC Indian Forest Service (IFS) exam includes Geology as one of the optional subjects. Here’s the detailed syllabus for Geology:
Paper I
1. General Geology:
- Solar System: Meteorites, origin and interior of the Earth.
- Radioactivity and age of the Earth.
- Interior of the Earth, earthquakes, and volcanoes.
- Geological time scale and geological history of India.
2. Geomorphology and Remote Sensing:
- Basic concepts of geomorphology.
- Weathering and erosion.
- Landforms, slopes, and drainage.
- Applications of geomorphology in various fields.
- Principles of remote sensing and its applications in geological studies.
3. Structural Geology:
- Principles of geological mapping and map reading.
- Structural features and their representation.
- Stress and strain in rocks.
- Folds, faults, joints, and unconformities.
4. Paleontology:
- Fossilization and the types of fossils.
- Morphology and geological distribution of major invertebrate, vertebrate, and plant fossils.
- Evolutionary history of life on Earth.
5. Stratigraphy:
- Principles of stratigraphy.
- Indian stratigraphy: Precambrian, Paleozoic, Mesozoic, and Cenozoic formations.
- Correlation of geological formations.
Paper II
1. Mineralogy:
- Physical and chemical properties of minerals.
- Silicate structures and mineralogy of common rock-forming minerals.
- Optical properties of minerals.
- X-ray mineralogy.
2. Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology:
- Classification and genesis of igneous rocks.
- Textures and structures of igneous rocks.
- Metamorphic facies, zones, and grades.
- Mineral assemblages in different metamorphic conditions.
3. Sedimentology:
- Sedimentary processes and environments.
- Classification of sedimentary rocks.
- Diagenesis and sedimentary structures.
- Sedimentary basins and their tectonic significance.
4. Economic Geology:
- Ore genesis and classification of ore deposits.
- Mineral exploration techniques.
- Indian mineral deposits: metallic and non-metallic.
- Fossil fuels: coal and petroleum geology.
5. Hydrogeology and Engineering Geology:
- Hydrological cycle and groundwater flow.
- Aquifers and groundwater exploration.
- Engineering properties of rocks and soils.
- Geological considerations in civil engineering projects.
This syllabus requires thorough study of each topic to prepare effectively for the exam. Utilizing good reference books, previous years’ question papers, and comprehensive study guides can be very beneficial.
