Why Current Affairs are Important for UPSC?

Why Current Affairs are Important for UPSC?- If I were to simplify the UPSC exam, it can be said that it consists of two subjects: static and dynamic. While the UPSC website provides an extensive list of topics and syllabus, the exam is a combination of both static and dynamic subjects.

Static subjects help you understand the historical and cultural background of India, while current affairs are essential for surviving the present. Just as understanding what the Britishers did to India over 200 years is important for comprehending Indian society today, current affairs help us understand how present-day relations should evolve for the welfare of citizens. Therefore, STATIC is the driving force and DYNAMIC is the fuel that drives.

To further illustrate the significance of current affairs, the following points are discussed:

1. UPSC is MAI-BAAP: In 2016, there was a sudden shift towards current affairs in the preliminary exam, which significantly increased the cutoff marks. Therefore, it is not wise to ignore current affairs as it can determine your success or failure in the exam. Even the mains exam has become more focused on current affairs, forming a balance between static and dynamic subjects.
2. Syllabus: The syllabus for the civil services exam is extensive and covers a wide range of topics. It includes contemporary socio-political issues as well as historical issues. Since the UPSC itself has included current affairs in its syllabus, it is crucial for candidates to pay attention to this aspect.
3. Interlinkage of static and dynamic: The UPSC is known for its logical and analytical questions. Therefore, questions may reference historical or geographical topics but the focus is on their relevance in the present. This requires candidates to have a comprehensive understanding of both static and dynamic subjects.
4. Logic and rationality: Reading current affairs is logically sound as it prepares candidates for their future roles as IAS or IFS officers. These officers are responsible for dealing with current issues and working for the welfare of the people. Therefore, staying informed about government initiatives, international organizations, and the bureaucratic system is essential for performing the job efficiently.
5. Interview: The interview process, also known as the personality test, evaluates candidates based on their overall understanding of India and its people. This understanding can only be achieved through a thorough knowledge of dynamic issues. Reading newspapers and keeping up with current trends helps develop opinion and analytical skills required for the interview.

Current affairs are the UPSC trend, much like the “KIKI CHALLENGE” on social media. It is crucial to prioritize current affairs if one wants to succeed in the exam and fulfill their aspirations of becoming a civil servant.

In conclusion, current affairs hold immense importance for the UPSC exam. If UPSC is considered the father of all exams, then current affairs can be equated to the mother, as fathers don’t betray mothers!