Divided into two sections (A & B), each with four topics. Candidates select one topic from each section. Total of two essays in three hours. Each essay: 125 marks. Credit for orderly arrangement of ideas, conciseness, and exact expression.
Indian History, Heritage, Culture, Society and Geography of India & World.
- Indian culture — Art Forms, Literature, Architecture (ancient to modern).
- Modern Indian history from mid-18th century — events, personalities, issues.
- The Freedom Struggle and contributions from across the country.
- Post-independence consolidation and reorganization.
- Salient features of Indian Society and Diversity of India.
- Role of women, population issues, poverty, urbanization, globalization effects.
- Social empowerment, communalism, regionalism, secularism.
- Physical geography, natural resources, geophysical phenomena.
Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice and International Relations.
- Indian Constitution — historical underpinnings, evolution, basic structure.
- Centre–State relations, federalism, devolution of powers.
- Separation of powers, dispute redressal mechanisms.
- Parliament & State Legislatures — structure, functioning, powers.
- Executive and Judiciary — organization, role of pressure groups.
- Representation of People's Act and Constitutional/Statutory Bodies.
- Government policies, welfare schemes, NGOs and development industry.
- Health, Education, Human Resources — poverty and hunger with Assam emphasis.
Technology, Economic Development, Bio-diversity, Environment, Security and Disaster Management.
- Indian Economy — planning, resource mobilization, inclusive growth, budgeting.
- Cropping patterns, PDS, food security, technology missions, land reforms.
- Effects of liberalization and infrastructure (energy, ports, roads, airports, railways).
- Science & Tech, indigenization, IT, Space, Computers, Nano-tech, IPR.
- Environmental conservation, EIA, disaster management with emphasis on Assam.
- Internal security — media & social networks, cyber security, money-laundering, border areas.
Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude.
- Ethics and Human Interface — essence, determinants, consequences.
- Human Values — lessons from leaders, reformers, administrators.
- Attitude, social influence and persuasion.
- Aptitude and foundational values for Civil Service.
- Emotional Intelligence — concepts and application in governance.
- Contributions of moral thinkers from India and the world.
- Probity in Governance — RTI, codes of ethics, citizen's charter.
- Case studies on the above issues.
History, Heritage, Culture, Geography, Governance, Polity, Social Justice, IR, Economic Development, Bio-diversity, Environment, Security and Disaster Management of Assam.
- History, Art, Culture, Literature, Tradition & Heritage of Assam — major dynasties, freedom movement, leading personalities.
- Geography of Assam — physical features, natural resources, climate, wildlife, mines, industries.
- Political and Administrative System — Governor, CM, State Assembly, High Court, APSC, district administration.
- Economy of Assam — agriculture, industry, services, welfare schemes, development projects.
- Bio-diversity, environment, security and disaster management with emphasis on Assam.