The UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) Mains examination in India consists of nine papers. The nine papers in UPSC Mains are:
- Paper-A: Indian Language (Qualifying Only) – This paper requires candidates to choose one of the Indian languages included in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution.
- Paper-B: English (Qualifying Only) – This paper tests the English language skills of the candidates.
- Essay Paper – Candidates are required to write two essays, choosing one from each of the sections. Each essay carries 125 marks.
- General Studies Paper-I – This paper covers topics such as Indian Heritage and Culture, History and Geography of the World and Society.
- General Studies Paper-II – This paper includes topics like Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, and International Relations.
- General Studies Paper-III – It covers subjects like Technology, Economic Development, Bio-diversity, Environment, Security, and Disaster Management.
- General Studies Paper-IV – This paper focuses on Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude.
- Optional Subject Paper-I – Candidates choose one optional subject from a list, and this paper covers the first part of that subject’s syllabus.
- Optional Subject Paper-II – This paper covers the second part of the syllabus of the optional subject chosen by the candidate.
Please verify this information with the latest UPSC exam notification or contact the official UPSC website for the most up-to-date information, as exam patterns and syllabus can change.