Day 1: GS 1, GS 2, UP 1
GS 1:
Syllabus:
- History of Indian Culture will cover the salient aspects of Art Forms, literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times.
- Modern Indian history (from A.D.1757 to A.D. 1947): Significant events, personalities and issues, etc.
- Discuss the impact of Ajanta Painting on modern Indian painting. (125 words)
Ajanta Paintings date back to 2nd century BCE were rediscovered in the 19th century inspired a new generation of Indian artists.
- Narrative Art: Ajanta Paintings, known for narrative storytelling, influenced modern artists to incorporate storytelling in their works.
- Style and Techniques: The fresco style and techniques of using light, and mixing colors, used in Ajanta are emulated by many contemporary artists, specially in watercolor paintings.
- Realism and Abstraction Blend: The unique amalgamation of realism and abstraction in Ajanta paintings has profoundly impacted the style of modern Indian painting.
- Colour Palette: The use of natural pigments and vibrant colors in Ajanta paintings inspired the use of similar organic colours in modern Indian art.
- Revival of Indian Art: During the Bengal School of Art movement, where artists like Abanindranath Tagore were strongly influenced by these paintings. Other painters like Raja Ravi Varma, Amrita Sher-Gil and Jamini Roy were inspired by these historic paintings.
2. Discuss the difference in the viewpoint of Gandhi and Ambedkar on caste system. (200 words)
Gandhi and Ambedkar, stalwarts of India’s freedom and social struggles respectively, held divergent views on the caste system, reflecting their distinct experiences and philosophies.
Mahatma Gandhi’s viewpoint: Gandhi, while critical of the caste system’s discriminatory aspects, espoused the concept of Varna Dharma.
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- Preservation of Varnas: Gandhi viewed the Varna system as an embodiment of division of labor, not based on birth but personal qualities and profession.
- Against Untouchability: He vehemently opposed untouchability, launching the Harijan movement to improve their societal status. He started ‘Harijan Sevak Sangh’ and ‘Harijan’ newspaper.
- Reform from Within: Gandhi believed in reforming the caste system from within, rather than demolishing it completely. His approach was transformative, not revolutionary.
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s viewpoint: As a Dalit himself, Ambedkar viewed the caste system as inherently oppressive, advocating for its complete annihilation.
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- Annihilation of Caste: Ambedkar strongly criticized the caste system and called for its complete annihilation. He viewed it as a source of social inequality and discrimination.
- Political Representation: He advocated for political safeguards and reservations for the lower castes in the legislatures to ensure their empowerment.
- Constitutional Abolition: As the architect of the Indian Constitution, he ensured the inclusion of provisions abolishing untouchability(Article 17) and providing equality of opportunity to all.
Both converged on the objective of achieving social equality and justice and were parties to Poona pact. They also shared a common ground in their fight against untouchability, although their methods and intensity differed.
GS 2
Syllabus:
- Indian Constitution– Historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure, Role of Supreme Court in evolution of basic provisions of Constitution
- Functions and responsibilities of the Union and States– Issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure, devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein
- ‘Under British India, we see gradual centralization and subsequent decentralization of power’. Elaborate. (200 words)
The British Raj in India marked a period of centralization and subsequent decentralization of power, shaping the administrative structure of the subcontinent.
Centralization Phase:
- Regulating Act of 1773: It was the first step towards centralization of power, integrating the administration of Bengal, Madras, and Bombay under the Governor-General of Bengal.
- Charter Act of 1833: This act further centralized power by vesting all civil, military, and revenue administration in the Governor-General, making him the Governor-General of India.
- Doctrine of Lapse: Implemented by Lord Dalhousie, it further centralized power by annexing independent Indian states.
Decentralization Phase:
- Government of India Act, 1858: Post the Revolt of 1857, the British Crown took over from the EIC. It marked a shift towards decentralization with increased roles for local administrations.
- Indian Councils Act, 1861: It restored the legislative powers of Bombay and Madras Presidencies and allowed for the establishment of legislative councils in other provinces.
- Government of India Act, 1919 : The provinces were allowed to administer the provincial subjects autonomously, under the system of diarchy.
- Government of India Act, 1935: It ended diarchy, introduced provincial autonomy and envisaged a federation, which would comprise of provinces and princely states as units.
Despite these steps, the real power still remained with the British officials, and the Indian representatives had little say in the administration. It was more of a calculated strategy to contain the rising demand for self-rule than a real shift towards decentralization.
2. ‘Cooperative and competitive federalism are necessary for the development of India’. Discuss the role of NITI Aayog in this regard. (200 words)
Cooperative and competitive federalism are crucial for India’s development, fostering synergistic relationships between states. The NITI Aayog plays a pivotal role in promoting them.
Cooperative Federalism: NITI Aayog fosters cooperation among states and the Centre, enabling shared decision-making and policy formulation.
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- Decentralization of Planning: With the 3-year action agenda, 7-year strategy, and 15-year vision, NITI Aayog decentralizes planning by giving states flexibility in strategizing their policies.
- Knowledge Sharing: By hosting seminars and workshops, NITI Aayog facilitates sharing of best practices among states, promoting mutual learning and progress. The NITI Forum for North East has been constituted and tangible sectoral proposals are being implemented by the States in partnership with the North East council.
Competitive Federalism: NITI Aayog promotes healthy competition among states:
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- Index Rankings: NITI Aayog publishes various indices such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Index, Innovation Index, and Health Index, that rank states on several parameters.
- It has also introduced a competition element in ‘Aspirational Districts Program’ by focusing on governance improvement.
- Model Laws: NITI Aayog proposes model laws in various sectors. The adoption of these laws is optional, encouraging states to reform as per their context and capabilities. Egs. Model Land leasing law.
However, challenges like regional disparities, centralization concerns, and inadequate consultation with states persist, requiring careful attention and resolution.
UP 1(GS 5)
Syllabus:
- History, Civilization, Culture and Ancient Cities of UP.
- Architecture, their significance and maintainability, museum, archive and archaeology of UP.
- Discuss the significance of Kannauj in history and culture of Uttar Pradesh. (125 words)
Kannauj holds immense historical and cultural significance due to its unique past, having a strong fort able to control the doab, and rich heritage.
Historical Significance:
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- Gupta Empire: Kannauj, called Mahodaya, rose to prominence during the Gupta period, known for its prosperity and cultural brilliance and under Harsha(7th century), Kannauj flourished as a cultural and political center.
- Tripartite Struggle: It was the focal point of the Tripartite Struggle between the Palas, Pratiharas, and Rashtrakutas, underscoring its strategic importance from 8th to 11th century.
- Gahadwal dynasty King Jayachandra had his capital at Kannauj in 12th century.
Cultural Significance: Due to connecting the silk route to Uttarapath(from Bengal to Punjab), it was an important center of trade, commerce and culture.
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- Perfume Industry: Known as “The City of Perfume”, Kannauj’s centuries old perfume distillation industry contributes to its cultural richness.
- Sanskrit poets like Banabhatta and Bhavabhuti have called Kannuaj their home.
2. Discuss the Mughal architectural heritage in UP and discuss its main features. (200 words)
Iconic structures such as the Taj Mahal, Fatehpur Sikri, and forts of Agra and Prayag are stellar examples of Mughal architecture. Fatehpur Sikri built by Akbar is an epitome of Mughal architecture, with structures like Panch Mahal, Buland Darwaza, and Jodha Bai’s Palace showing unique architectural features. The red sandstone Agra and Allahabad Forts exemplify military might, while their intricate interiors reflect Mughal aesthetic sensibilities. Some of the features are:
- Architectural Features: Key features include large domes, slender minarets, wide arches, symmetrical design, detailed inlays, and intricate carvings. Gardens in Charbagh layout, intricate Jali work, Pietra Dura, and use of red sandstone and marble are other distinct aspects.
- Cultural Synthesis: Mughal architecture reflects a synthesis of diverse traditions. Persian influences are seen in the gardens and geometric layouts. Indian elements include decorative motifs, balconies, and chajjas.
- Calligraphy and Geometry: Mughal architecture uses extensive calligraphy, mostly verses from Quran, and geometric patterns, both seen in Taj Mahal and other monuments.
- Influence on Local Architecture: The Mughal architectural style left an indelible imprint on Awadh architecture, of Lucknow.
Apart from that utilitarian architecture like Sarai(inns) and Kos Minar(to tell distance on GT Road) too are important parts of UP’s Mughal heritage. Many of these monuments are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ensuring their preservation and maintenance.
Schedule of the program:
UPPCS Daily Answer Writing Program
| Exam Date: 23rd– Sep 2023 | ||||
| Schedule for Daily Answer Writing
Start Date: 3rd– July 2023 |
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| Date | Day | Subject 1 | Subject 2 | Subject 3 |
| 3-Jul | Monday | GS-1 | GS 2 | UP 1 |
| 4-Jul | Tuesday | GS-3 | GS-4 | UP 2 |
| 5-Jul | Wednesday | Off | ||
| 6-Jul | Thursday | GS-1 | GS 2 | UP 1 |
| 7-Jul | Friday | GS-3 | GS-4 | UP 2 |
| 8-Jul | Saturday | Essay/Hindi | ||
| 9-Jul | Sunday | Off | ||
| 10-Jul | Monday | GS-1 | GS 2 | UP 1 |
| 11-Jul | Tuesday | GS-3 | GS-4 | UP 2 |
| 12-Jul | Wednesday | Off | ||
| 13-Jul | Thursday | GS-1 | GS 2 | UP 1 |
| 14-Jul | Friday | GS-3 | GS-4 | UP 2 |
| 15-Jul | Saturday | Essay/Hindi | ||
| 16-Jul | Sunday | Off | ||
| 17-Jul | Monday | GS-1 | GS 2 | UP 1 |
| 18-Jul | Tuesday | GS-3 | GS-4 | UP 2 |
| 19-Jul | Wednesday | Off | ||
| 20-Jul | Thursday | GS-1 | GS 2 | UP 1 |
| 21-Jul | Friday | GS-3 | GS-4 | UP 2 |
| 22-Jul | Saturday | Essay/Hindi | ||
| 23-Jul | Sunday | Off | ||
| 24-Jul | Monday | GS-1 | GS 2 | UP 1 |
| 25-Jul | Tuesday | GS-3 | GS-4 | UP 2 |
| 26-Jul | Wednesday | Off | ||
| 27-Jul | Thursday | GS-1 | GS 2 | UP 1 |
| 28-Jul | Friday | GS-3 | GS-4 | UP 2 |
| 29-Jul | Saturday | Essay/Hindi | ||
| 30-Jul | Sunday | Off | ||
| 31-Jul | Monday | GS-1 | GS 2 | UP 1 |
| 1-Aug | Tuesday | GS-3 | GS-4 | UP 2 |
| 2-Aug | Wednesday | Off | ||
| 3-Aug | Thursday | GS-1 | GS 2 | UP 1 |
| 4-Aug | Friday | GS-3 | GS-4 | UP 2 |
| 5-Aug | Saturday | Essay/Hindi | ||
| 6-Aug | Sunday | Off | ||
| 7-Aug | Monday | GS-1 | GS 2 | UP 1 |
| 8-Aug | Tuesday | GS-3 | GS-4 | UP 2 |
| 9-Aug | Wednesday | Off | ||
| 10-Aug | Thursday | GS-1 | GS 2 | UP 1 |
| 11-Aug | Friday | GS-3 | GS-4 | UP 2 |
| 12-Aug | Saturday | Essay/Hindi | ||
| 13-Aug | Sunday | Off | ||
| 14-Aug | Monday | GS-1 | GS 2 | UP 1 |
| 15-Aug | Tuesday | GS-3 | GS-4 | UP 2 |
| 16-Aug | Wednesday | Off | ||
| 17-Aug | Thursday | GS-1 | GS 2 | UP 1 |
| 18-Aug | Friday | GS-3 | GS-4 | UP 2 |
| 19-Aug | Saturday | Essay/Hindi | ||
| 20-Aug | Sunday | Off | ||
| 21-Aug | Monday | GS-1 | GS 2 | UP 1 |
| 22-Aug | Tuesday | GS-3 | GS-4 | UP 2 |
| 23-Aug | Wednesday | Off | ||
| 24-Aug | Thursday | GS-1 | GS 2 | UP 1 |
| 25-Aug | Friday | GS-3 | GS-4 | UP 2 |
| 26-Aug | Saturday | Essay/Hindi | ||
| 27-Aug | Sunday | Off | ||
| 28-Aug | Monday | GS-1 | GS 2 | UP 1 |
| 29-Aug | Tuesday | GS-3 | GS-4 | UP 2 |
| 30-Aug | Wednesday | Off | ||
| 31-Aug | Thursday | GS-1 | GS 2 | UP 1 |
| 1-Sep | Friday | GS-3 | GS-4 | UP 2 |
| 2-Sep | Saturday | Essay/Hindi | ||
| 3-Sep | Sunday | Off | ||
| 4-Sep | Monday | GS-1 | GS 2 | UP 1 |
| 5-Sep | Tuesday | GS-3 | GS-4 | UP 2 |
| 6-Sep | Wednesday | Off | ||
| 7-Sep | Thursday | GS-1 | GS 2 | UP 1 |
| 8-Sep | Friday | GS-3 | GS-4 | UP 2 |
| 9-Sep | Saturday | Essay/Hindi |
Mode of delivery: Online on Oracle IAS’s LMS
- User id and password will be provided to each candidate.
- Repository of all the questions and answers will be available from Day 1.
How the Daily UPPCS Answer Writing Program will be conducted?
- Topics from different subject for revision will be posted on the our Whatsapp/Telegram group.
- Next Day 2 questions per subject will be uploaded. (Total 6 Questions per day)
- Model Answer will be uploaded thereafter.
- Candidates have to self-evaluate their answers.
In total you will have 65+ days of answer writing practice with specific types of questions and answers.
Fees/Cost of the program:
Program Includes: 65+ days Daily Answer Writing + UPPCS Mains Solved Paper Book (Click Here for Sample)
Total Cost of the program: 1500 (answer writing)+ 450 (PYQ book) = Rs. 1950 /- –> Rs. 1499/-
To Order UPPCS Mains Solved Paper Book: Click Here
WhatsApp 999 7453844 for enrollment in the UPPCS Mains Daily Answer Writing Program.
Sample of the Book
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Contact: Call/WhatsApp 9997453844 for details
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