CIVIL SERVICES EXAM
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The Civil Services Examination is a challenge and thousands of candidates appear in it every year. As many students appear in the examination, we answer some commonly asked questions. To achieve success in the exam, it is important to study in a focused manner, both for the Preliminary as well as for the Main Exam. For an IAS aspirant, it is important to know the plan of the examination as well as what one might expect.
The examination consists of two parts: the Preliminary Examination (objective type), which is a qualifying examination, and a Main Examination consisting of written examination and interview. The marks obtained in the Preliminary Exam are not counted in the Main Exam and it is only a screening exam. The Preliminary Exam is an objective type test. One can appear in the Main Examination only after passing the Preliminary Exam. The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) holds the Preliminary Examination in May/June and the Main Examination is held in October/November. The notification for the Preliminary Examination is published in December every year. The exam is held in many cities in India and one can opt for a centre near one's place so that unnecessary travel is avoided. The number of vacancies are 600-700 every year. Reservation is made for candidates belonging to the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Classes.
Age: The candidate must be between 21 and 30 years of age as on August 1 every year for the exam. Relaxations to the age limit are available for 5 years for candidates belonging to the scheduled castes or those who were domiciled in J & K from January 1, 1980 to December 31, 1989. A relaxation of 3 years in the case of Defence Services Personnel disabled in operations; upto 8 years for Scheduled Caste candidate who is also a defence personnel, disabled in operations; upto 5 years in case of ex-servicemen including Commissioned Officers who have rendered at least five years Military Service as on August 1 of that year; upto 10 years in the case of ex-servicemen including Commissioned Officers who belong to the Scheduled Castes and who have rendered at least five years Military Service. The date of birth acceptable is the one entered in the Matriculation or School Leaving Certificate. No other documents with respect to age are acceptable.
Educational Qualifications: The candidate must hold a degree of any of the Universities incorporated by an act of legislature in India or educational institutions established by an Act of Parliament. A degree from deemed universities under Section 3 of the University Grants Commission Act, 1956 is also eligible. Candidates having professionals and technical qualifications recognised by the government are also eligible. Candidates having an MBBS degree but have not completed their internship will be provisionally admitted to the Main Examination provided that they submit a certificate of their Institute that they have passed the final professional medical examination. Those who have appeared in the final year but do not have the result can also apply but they would have to produce proof of passing the exam with their application for the Main Exam.
Attempts: A candidate is permitted 4 attempts at the examination. There is no restriction on the number of attempts for scheduled caste candidates but Other Backward Classes have seven attempts. If a person appears in the Preliminary Exam or even appears in one paper, it is counted as an attempt. One should make up one's mind before applying and taking an attempt and only a serious attempt should be made.
Fee: The fee for the exam is Rs 50, to be paid through Central Recruitment Fee stamps available at post offices. The post office must cancel the stamps so that the impression of the cancellation stamp partially overflows on the application form. Instruments such as postal orders, drafts and such are not accepted and candidates should only send the fee through the Recruitment Fee stamps. Candidates belonging to the scheduled castes and physically handicapped persons are not required to pay any fee.
How to Apply:
(a) Candidates may apply Online by using the website http://www.upsconline.nic.in Detailed instructions for filling up online applications are available on the above mentioned website.
(b) Candidates may also apply Offline in the Common Application Form devised by the Commission for its examinations, which can be purchased from the designated Head Post Offices/Post Offices (specified in Appendix III of the Notice) throughout the country against cash payment of Rs. 30/- (Rupees Thirty only). Each such Form can be used only once and only for one examination.
In case of any difficulty in obtaining Application Forms from the designated HPOs/POs, the candidates should immediately contact the concerned post Master or UPSC’s “FORMS SUPPLY MONITORING CELL” over Telephone No. 011-23389366/FAX No. 011-23387310.
Plan of the Preliminary Examination:
The Examination shall comprise two compulsory papers of 200 marks each.
Paper I - (200 marks) Duration : Two hours
• Current events of national and international importance.
• History of India and Indian National Movement.
• Indian and World Geography - Physical, Social, Economic Geography of India and the World.
• Indian Polity and Governance - Constitution, Political System, Panchayati Raj, Public Policy, Rights Issues, etc.
• Economic and Social Development - Sustainable Development, Poverty, Inclusion, Demographics, Social Sector initiatives, etc.
• General issues on Environmental Ecology, Bio-diversity and Climate Change - that do not require subject specialisation
• General Science.
Paper II- (200 marks) Duration: Two hours
• Comprehension
• Interpersonal skills including communication skills;
• Logical reasoning and analytical ability
• Decision-making and problem solving
• General mental ability
• Basic numeracy (numbers and their relations, orders of magnitude, etc.) (Class X level), Data interpretation (charts, graphs, tables, data sufficiency etc. - Class X level)
• English Language Comprehension skills (Class X level).
Subjects for Paper II (one subject to be selected): Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Botany, Chemistry, Civil Engineering, Commerce, Economics, Electrical Engineering, Geography, Geology, Indian History, Law, Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering, Medical Science, Philosophy, Physics, Political Science, Psychology, Public Administration, Sociology, Statistics, Zoology.
The question papers are in Hindi and English and each paper is of two hours duration. The course content of the syllabi is of degree level. Each paper is of two hours duration. Blind candidates are allowed an extra time of 20 minutes for each paper.
Plan of the Main Examination:
The Main Exam consists of a written exam and an interview test. The written exam has 9 papers of conventional essay type. Marks obtained in the Main Exam will determine whether a candidate is called for the interview. The interview carries 300 marks and the number of candidates called is about twice the number of vacancies. Interview calls are sent on the basis of minimum marks fixed by the UPSC at its discretion. Marks obtained in the Main Exam plus interview determines the final ranking. Candidates are allotted various services keeping in view their ranks in the examination and preferences expressed by them. The written examination consists of the following papers:
Paper I One of the languages to be selected from the Eighth 300 marks
Schedule of the Constitution
Paper II English 300 marks
Paper III Essay 200 marks
Paper IV & V General Studies 300 marks each
Paper VI-IX Any two subjects from list of optional subjects. 300 marks
Each subject has two papers.
Interview 300 marks
Optional subjects: Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Botany, Chemistry, Civil Engineering, Commerce and Accountancy, Economics, Electrical Engineering, Geography, Geology, History, Law, Management, Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering,20Medical Science, Philosophy, Physics, Political Science and International Relations, Psychology, Public Administration, Sociology, Statistics, Zoology. Each paper is of 3 hours duration.
The following combinations not allowed are:
Political Science & International Relations and Public Administration
Commerce and Management
Anthropology and Sociology
Maths and Statistics
Agriculture and Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science
Management and Public Administration
Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science and Medical Science
Any two branches of engineering.
Literature of any of the following languages: Arabic, Assamese, Bengali, Chinese, English, French, German, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, Kashmiri, Konkani, Marathi, Malayalam, Manipuri, Nepali, Oriya, Pali, Persian, Punjabi, Russian, Sanskrit, Sindhi, Tamil, Telegu, Urdu.
Interview:
The object of the interview is to assess the suitability of the candidate for a career in public service. It is an assessment of not only the intellectual qualities but also social traits and interest in current affairs. Some of the qualities judged are: mental alertness, critical powers of assimilation, logical exposition, balance of judgement, variety and depth of interest, social cohesion, leadership and above all, intellectual and moral integrity. To succeed in the interview, candidates should take an intelligent interest not only in areas of their subjects, but also in what is happening around them, both within and outside their country. They should be aware of modern currents of thought and in new discoveries which should arouse the curiosity of well educated youth. That is why it is most important to read magazines and newspapers, watch television programmes on current affairs and also discuss the issues with friends or parents on a regular basis.
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Wednesday 29 February 2012
PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY
PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY
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The Earth—Its Motions and their Effects
The earth has two motions, viz., (1) Rotation around its axis or the daily motion. The axis of the earth is an imaginary line inclined at 66.5° to the plane of the orbit of the earth. The earth rotates round its axis from west to east once in 24 hours. Effects: Days and nights are caused. The sun, moon and other heavenly bodies appear to revolve round the earth from east to west. Direction of winds and currents is changed.
(2) Revolution round the sun on its orbit, or the annual motion: The earth revolves round the sun once in about 365.25 days. Effects: It causes seasons; days and nights are of unequal length at the same place.
Important elements in the earth’s crust
The five most abundant elements in the earth’s crust are: Oxygen, Silicon, Aluminium, Iron and Calcium. (The other three are Sodium, Potassium and Magnesium.)
Oceans—Their Importance
Oceans are the source of all water on earth as the evaporated water from over their surface is brought to earth by the winds passing over them. They are the highways of the world and most of the world trade is carried through the sea. Innumerable fish and other animals living in the oceans are a great source of food to mankind. Minerals like salt, iodine etc. are derived from the ocean waters and sea-weeds.
Ocean Currents: are rivers of warm or cold water flowing in an ocean. Their banks and beds also consist of water.
Natural Regions
A natural region is a large area in which the topography, climate and vegetation are largely similar, and therefore there is a certain uniformity in human activities.
Natural Regions of the World
(1) Equatorial Region (2) Hot-Grassland Region (3) Monsoon Region (4) Hot Deserts Region (5) Mediterranean Region (6) Steppe Region (7) Tundra Region (8) Warm Temperate Region (9) Cool Temperate Region.
Natural Regions of India
(1) The Himalayas and the adjacent mountains; (2) The Sutlej-Ganga plains; (3) The coastal plains of Western and Eastern ghats; (4) The Deccan plateau.
Factors Determining Climate of a Place
(1) Distance from the Equator (2) Height above sea-level (3) Distance from the sea (4) Winds (5) Direction of Mountains (6) Ocean currents (7) Slope of land (8) Nature of the soil (9) Forests.
Factors Determining Temperature
(i) sun rays, (ii) height above sea-level (iii) movements of atmospheric winds, (iv) ocean currents.
Rainfall
Two important conditions must be satisfied in order to have rain: (1) There should be moisture-laden air, (2) There should be some means whereby air is cooled and condensation takes place. The air obtains water vapours by evaporation from the surface of large bodies of water, usually from the sea.
Monsoons in India
Monsoons are periodic winds which blow from sea to land for six months in summer and from land to sea for six months in winter. Monsoon winds prevail over India at different seasons.
South-West Monsoons: These are rain-bearing winds which prevail from about the end of May to the end of September. During summer, the sun’s rays fall vertically on the Tropic of Cancer making the Indian plains intensely hot. But the rays of the sun fall obliquely over the Indian Ocean during this period. The land is hotter than the sea, there is, therefore, low pressure over the land and high pressure over the sea. The winds blow from high to low pressure i.e., from the sea to the land, and are therefore wet winds. Because of the rotation of the earth, the monsoon winds blowing over India deflect to the right after crossing the Equator and become south-west winds. These are, therefore, called south-west monsoons.
India depends largely on these rain-bearing south-west winds. These winds give to India about 90% of the total rainfall. During their prevalence, the chief crops cultivated are rice, cotton, tobacco, tea, jawar and bajra.
North-East Monsoons (or Winter Monsoons): During the months of November to January i.e., in winter, the sun’s rays fall vertically on the Tropic of Capricorn. The air over the Indian Ocean during this period thus becomes hot and light and there is low pressure. The sun’s rays fall obliquely on the plains of India during these months with the result that the air over these plains is cold and heavy and there is high pressure. The winds, therefore, blow from plains to the Indian Ocean. While crossing the Equator, they deflect to the left and are known as north-east monsoons.
The North-East Monsoons bring only about 10% of the total rain to India as they are chilly and dry land winds. But the moisture that they pick from the Bay of Bengal, little as it is, is very useful. Wheat, barley, oats, oilseeds and sugarcane are cultivated during this season.
Thus these monsoon winds have much importance for India.
Weather and Climate
Weather means the atmospheric conditions e.g., temperature, rainfall, humidity, winds, sunshine and cloudiness of a particular place on a particular day. Climate, on the other hand, is the average condition of weather obtaining in a country or a place for a considerable period.
India has a great diversity of climatic conditions. Lying largely within the tropics and in the great Asiatic Continent and the vast expanse of the Indian Ocean to the South, the climate of India is essentially the tropical monsoon type. The average annual rainfall in India is 42 inches.
Types of Soil in India
The main categories of soils in India are: (i) Alluvial soils (ii) Black soils (iii) Red soils (iv) Laterite soils (v) Mountain and hill soils (vi) Terai soils (vii) Desert (or Arid) soil and (viii) Peat soils.
Alluvial soil and Black soil
Alluvial soil is that soil which is formed by deposition of silts brought down by the rivers. It is rich in hydrated oxides of iron and is very fertile. Black soil or the black cotton soil has a good water-holding capacity and is best suited for deep-rooted crops like cotton. The black soil in wet condition is compact and sticky.
The most extensive soil cover of India comprises alluvial soils.
Soil Erosion: The soils are usually six to twelve inches in depth. In course of time, the fertility level of the soil is depleted with the result that the soil no longer remains suitable for agriculture. Soil conservation is, therefore, necessary for continued agricultural prosperity.
The agencies of erosion are winds, water and waves of which the water erosion is most common. Rain water removes soil from the surface of sloping lands. Winds remove top soil of lands.
Laterite soils are formed by the weathering of laterite rocks. These can be distinguished from other soils by their acidity. Laterite soils are generally poor on the higher levels and cannot retain moisture. In the plains, however, they consist of heavy loams and clay and can retain moisture.
Laterite soils occur in Madhya Pradesh, Assam and along the Eastern and Western Ghats. Tea plantation requires acidity which is there in the laterite soil. It is, therefore, common in these areas.
Star and Planet
Star is the name given to a fixed celestial body which has its own light whereas Planet is the name given to a celestial body which revolves round the sun in elliptical (regular oval shape) orbit. A planet has no light of its own but reflects the light of the sun.
Rocks
Three main groups of rocks: Igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic.
Classification of rocks
Igneous rocks: granite.
Sedimentary rocks: sandstone; limestone; shale; coal.
Metamorphic rocks: marble.
Phyllite: This rock is formed by deposits of animal shells and skeletons.
Land Breeze and Sea Breeze
Land Breeze: At night, land masses cool quicker than the sea. Therefore, in calm, cloudless weather, an air-stream passes from the land to the sea. This breeze carries no moisture, and is a little warm.
Sea Breeze: In day-time, the land is hotter than the sea. The air over it rises, and is replaced by a cool breeze from the sea carrying some moisture.
Tides
Alternate rise and fall of waters of the ocean twice in the course of nearly twenty four hours is termed as “tides”. The tides are caused by the gravitational force exerted by the moon and to a lesser degree by the sun, on the earth. The tides do not always rise to the same height. At the time of the new and full moon, when the sun and moon are in a straight line with the earth, the tides rise higher and are known as Spring Tides. Midway between new and full moon when the sun and the moon are at right angles as to their direction from the earth, tides are at the lowest height and are called Neap Tides.
Spring Tides and Neap Tides
When a high tide is caused twice a month at new moon and again when the moon is full, spring tide is caused as a result of combined attraction of the sun and the moon.
When the high tide is not so high, nor the low tide so low, neap tides are caused as a result of the difference of attraction of the sun and the moon.
Seasons
The change of seasons is due to (i) revolution of the earth round the sun (ii) inclination of earth’s axis at 66.5° to the plane of its orbit and always pointing to the same direction. On the 21st June, the North Pole is inclined towards the sun and the South Pole is inclined away from it. The rays of the sun fall perpendicularly at the Tropic of Cancer (23.5° North) and fall comparatively slanting in the southern hemisphere. Hence the days are longer than nights in the northern hemisphere and it is summer there. Just opposite is the case in the southern hemisphere where the nights are longer at that time and it is winter there.
Latitudes and Longitudes
India lies entirely to the north of the Equator, between latitudes 8°-4´ and 37°-6´ north and longitude 68°-7´ and 97°-25´ east.
The latitude of the South Pole is 90°. South Pole has no longitude.
Longitude of a place is its distance east or west of a fixed meridian. The distance of any place north or south of the Equator is called the Latitude of that place.
Parallels of latitude: are lines drawn on a map (or globe) showing the latitude of a place.
Meridians (or lines) of longitude: These are lines drawn on a map (or globe) showing the longitude of a place. These lines join the north and south pole cutting the Equator at right angles.
(Latitudes and Longitudes should be clearly distinguished from Parallels of Latitude and Meridians of Longitude respectively.)
By knowing these lines, we can find out exact location of a place. By knowing the latitude of a place we can find out its average temperature, as also its distance from the Equator. By knowing the longitude of a place, we can calculate its local time.
Longitude is the angular distance of a place east or west of the prime meridian. The earth rotates upon its axis once in 24 hours and covers 360° in 24 hours. Thus it takes 60 x 24/360 or 4 minutes to cover a degree of longitude or we may say that in four minutes, the earth moves through 1°. There is thus a difference of 4 minutes for each degree of longitude. This fact is used for determining the longitude of a place. All longitudes are measured from the meridian of Greenwich.
We can determine the latitude of a place in the northern hemisphere by measuring the altitude of the Pole Star. The altitude of the Pole Star is the latitude of that place. For example, if the altitude of Pole Star at Delhi is 28.5° North, its latitude will also be 28.5°N. The altitude of Pole Star is measured by an instrument called Sextant.
Solar Eclipse and Lunar Eclipse
Solar Eclipse: is the partial or complete obscuration of the sun because of the passage of the moon in front of it i.e., when the moon comes in between the sun and the earth.
The moon then appears as a dark object obscuring the sun. Over a small portion of the earth’s surface, the moon is seen to blot out the sun completely and a total eclipse is seen by the people in that particular area. But over most of the earth’s surface, the eclipse seen is partial because only a portion of the sun’s face remains covered by the moon.
Lunar Eclipse: is the partial or complete obscuration of the moon’s surface when the earth comes in between the sun and the moon. The moon, when it moves through the shadow of the earth, loses its bright direct illumination by the sun, although its disc still remains faintly visible.
An eclipse of the moon is visible and presents the same features at all places on the earth where the moon is above the horizon. The lunar eclipse can be seen with the naked eye, field glass or a small telescope.
The lunar eclipse occurs at full moon only when the earth comes in between the sun and the moon which phenomenon does not occur at every full moon.
Indian Standard Time
The Indian Standard Time is a uniform time adopted by all palces in India without regard to their local time. It is usual for each country to have its standard time for use over the whole country as it would be very difficult if every town or village had its own local time and whenever we moved from one place to another, we should have to alter our watches.
Indian Standard Time is the local time of a place near Allahabad situated at 82.5° East longitude.
Winds
Air moving from one direction to another horizontally is called wind. It is the air in motion.
Cause of Wind: The chief cause of winds is difference in pressure. Air always moves from region of high pressure to a region of low pressure to equalize the pressure. For example, the low pressure belt round the Equator is a region of calm known as the doldrums. Although there are no regular winds there, violent squalls and thunderstorms are frequent which come from high pressure areas north and south of the Equator.
Direction of Winds: As the earth is rotating daily on its axis from west to east, all winds are deflected. According to Ferrel’s Law, winds are deflected to the right in Northern Hemisphere and to the left in the Southern Hemisphere.
Characteristics of the important Wind Systems of the World:
1. Trade Winds: The rays of the sun fall almost vertically at the Equator and the air there becomes hot and the pressure is low. The air rises towards the Poles and descends near 30°N and 30°S. The pressure is high near 30°N and 30°S. Because winds blow from high-pressure to low-pressure areas, winds from over these altitudes blow towards the Equator and Trade Winds are caused.
2. Westerlies (or Anti-Trade Winds): are winds which blow from about 40 degrees N to the Arctic Circle and from about 35 degrees S to the Antarctic Circle throughout the year. They derive their name from the direction in which they blow. In the northern hemisphere they blow in the south-westerly direction and bring winter rain to the Mediterranean regions etc. In the southern hemisphere, they blow in a north-westerly direction.
3. Polar Winds: The winds which blow from the high pressure area around the poles towards the temperate regions are known as polar winds. They are extremely cold. They rise from the North West in the Northern Hemisphere and from the South East in the Southern Hemisphere.
4. Periodical Winds: These are (i) Land and Sea Breezes and (ii) Monsoons which blow in one direction at a particular time or during a particular season. In the hot season in India, the sun shines vertically over the Tropic of Cancer, i.e., roughly over the great plains of the Ganges and Brahmaputra so that the air over the plains becomes very hot by about the month of May. At this time, South West Monsoon commences to blow. They bring heavy rains. Monsoon winds prevail over India at different seasons. India depends on the rain-bearing south-west winds which prevail from about the end of May to the end of September. These winds bring to India about 90% of all the rain that falls there.
5. Variable Winds: are the irregular winds as Cyclones and Anti-Cyclones.
Rainfall
There is heavy rainfall on the West coast because the Western Ghat ranges receive the full force of the monsoons from the Arabian sea and there is heavy rainfall (about 100 inches). On the other hand, the Deccan Plateau gets very scanty rainfall because it falls within the rain-shadow area.
Chennai gets winter rainfall as the north-east monsoons which blow in winter pick up moisture from the Bay of Bengal and bring rain to that city.
The Bay of Bengal monsoons first bring rain to the eastern parts and then turn westwards. As Kolkata is in the east, it receives more rainfall. As the monsoons blow westwards they become drier and cause less rainfall. So Delhi does not get as much rainfall as Kolkata.
In the northern region, the Bay of Bengal monsoons first bring rain to eastern parts and then turn westwards. As the monsoons blow westwards, they go on losing moisture and cause decreasing rainfall.
In the southern region, the Arabian Sea monsoons first strike the western ghats and the moisture is drained on the western side whereas rainfall goes on decreasing towards eastern region.
Two important conditions must be satisfied in order to have rain: (1) There should be moisture-laden air, (2) There should be some means whereby air is cooled and condensation takes place. The air obtains water vapours by evaporation from the surface of large bodies of water, usually from the sea.
The moisture-laden air is cooled in two ways: (i) by rising upward into colder upper regions of the atmosphere, (ii) by blowing as wind to colder regions.
Thus we see: (a) Moist air is lighter than dry air and so it readily rises, expands in a short time, cools and falls. (b) When warm winds blow towards cooler regions, it is condensed by cooling effect and rain falls. (c) The land masses or mountains also tend to condense water vapours. When moisture-laden wind is obstructed by mountains, it is forced to rise. As it rises, it becomes cool and rainfall results.
Rivers
The work of a river is three-fold:
(i) The Mountain Stage: The mountain or upper course of a river is swift as the slope at this stage of a river is steep. The main work of a river at this stage is denudation (wearing away). In this swift upper course, the rivers carry big stones, pebbles etc. which go on eroding the sides and beds of the valleys. As time goes on, the river cuts away the spurs on both sides and the valleys become wider and deeper. The mountain stage of the Ganges in India extends from its source up to Hardwar.
(ii) The Plain Stage: In this stage the river moves slowly as the slope is gradual and its main work is transportation (navigation) and irrigation. The plain stage of the Ganges extends from Hardwar to Bhagalpur.
(iii) The Delta Stage: This is the last stage and the rivers are very slow at this stage. In this slow lower or deltaic course, the main work of the river is deposition. The level of the bed at this stage rises due to mud and silt brought by it and deposited into several channels before falling into the sea. The Ganges forms her delta from Bhagalpur up to the sea.
The deltas are not formed at the mouths of rivers where tides carry away all the mud and silt deposited (at the mouth) e.g., the Narbada and the Tapti do not form any delta. Also rivers which deposit all their mud into the lakes through which they pass do not form delta e.g., the St Lawrence in Canada.
Estuary is formed at the mouth of a river where tidal effects are evident and where fresh water and sea water mix. In most cases it is due to subsidence of coastal low-land.
Delta is the triangular piece of land formed by the deposition of mud and silt near the mouth of a river. In the case of delta formation, more solid material is deposited which cannot be removed by tidal or other currents.
The rivers of Northern India are more important than those of Southern India because they have a flow of water throughout the year. Even in summer these rivers receive water from the melting of Himalayan snow. Flowing through broad basins, they form large tracts or rich alluvial soil on either side. It is no wonder, therefore, that their fertile basin are the natural grannaries of the country. Further, the Ganga and the Brahmaputra are navigable and provide excellent waterways for commerce. The Peninsular rivers, on the other hand, have water during the monsoons but shrivel into muddy pools in the dry season. These rivers are of little use for navigation on account of their torrential nature in the upper course, and the rapids that occur where they descend into deep gorges from the table land to the coastal plains.
Climate and Vegetation
The Equatorial type climate, in which the temperature remains high all the year round but does not vary much, produces hot, wet forests.
The Tropical type climate produces grasslands which are found on either side of the equatorial belt where the rainfall usually occurs soon after the sun has been shining vertically while the dry season occurs in the colder part of the year.
The lowlands along the Tropic of Cancer lie mainly in the high-pressure belt just outside the Tropics. The Trade Winds blow away from these lowlands towards the Equator and the Westerly winds blow away from them towards the Poles. There are, therefore, no winds to bring rain to this region. Some of these lowlands are dry because these are very very far from the sea, like centre of Asia. There are few clouds and very little rain with the result that the sun’s rays strike straight on the ground and make the days very hot.
The temperature of the ocean varies much less than that of land because (i) water has a higher specific heat than land with the result that it both absorbs and loses heat slowly as compared to land; and (ii) due to large surface of water at sea more evaporation occurs than on land. Evaporation causes cooling and this results in the sea having a lower temperature than that on land.
We may divide India into two parts for the purpose of climatological studies: (1) peninsular India and (2) Northern India. Peninsular India has the characteristic of tropical climate where “the temperature is uniformly high and seasonal variation relatively low”.
The climatic conditions in Northern India have no general similarity. This region lies beyond the Tropic of Cancer. The Western part of it includes East Punjab and Rajasthan where air is devoid of moisture and it is hot in summer and very cold in winter. The eastern part of this region includes U.P., Bihar, Assam and West Bengal. Here winter is mild and summer is very hot with plenty of moisture in the air.
These climatic conditions are however, disturbed by two Monsoon Currents—the South West Monsoon and the North-East Monsoon. The South-West Monsoon causes heavy rainfall in Assam, West Bengal and U.P. It begins to retreat from Northern India in early October and this retreat is completed by mid-December. During this retreat period the weather in Northern India becomes dry.
The North-East monsoons begin in January and last till March. These winds cause light rain in Northern India, particularly in the Punjab plains. This scanty rainfall is very important for Rabi crops.
Vegetation: Agriculture is the most important occupation of the people of India. In Northern India, typical monsoon land crops are grown such as rice in Bengal with its warm and humid climate; wheat and maize in Northern plains, Punjab and U.P.; jute in Bengal and Assam and tea in Assam.
In Peninsular India where regur or black cotton soil is found and sufficient moisture available, cotton is grown. It is the chief crop of the Deccan Peninsula—Mumbai and Berar being the chief producers. Coffee is grown on the Nilgiris in the South.
Climatic Effect: India has on the whole monsoon-tropical climate: ‘Monsoon—lands are dominated by the winds from sea to land in summer—the wet season and by winds from land to sea in winter—the dry season.’ This type of climate is not very conducive to health and vigour. Man’s well-being in such a climate depends largely on rainfall. The agricultural products do not grow if the monsoon fails and famine conditions break out. This dependence on rain, however, is not absolute owing to development of irrigation by means of projects, canals, wells etc.
The desert type climate is hot and dry. The rainfall is scanty, not more than 10 inches a year. The day and night temperatures vary to much extent. The evenings and afternoons are marked by hot dust storms.
The regions lie mainly in the high-pressure belts just outside the Tropics. The Trade Winds blow away from them towards the Equator and the Westerly Winds blow away from them towards the Poles. There are no winds which bring rain to this region and the climate remains hot and dry.
Mediterranean Climate
It is the type of climate experienced by the lands bordering the Mediterranean Sea, and also by other regions, in both hemispheres, situated in a similar geographical position. The characteristic features are warmth of the summer, mildness of the winter, and ample sunshine.
The entire west coast of the United States has Mediterranean type of climate because this region gets winter rainfall from “Westerlies” winds.
Irrigation
Methods of Irrigation: The various systems of irrigation used in India are: (1) Canals; (2) Wells; (3) Tube-wells; and (4) Tanks.
Canals: Canals are the most important of the systems of irrigation in India because:
(i) the rivers are snow-fed and never run dry; (ii) the plain has a soft and alluvial soil, so canals can be easily dug; (iii) the rainfall is insufficient for irrigation and wells alone cannot satisfy the needs of agriculturists.
Of the total irrigated land in India, 40 per cent is irrigated by canals.
Wells: Wells are found all over India but these are largely used in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana and Bihar. They are also used in Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra and Rajasthan. The reason for irrigation by wells is that the soil is porous and after a rainfall, water is stored up below the soil, and wells can be easily sunk.
Tube-wells: Irrigation by tube-wells has become very popular these days. Tube-wells are worked by electric power. These are much deeper than the ordinary wells. Due to shortage of power, the agriculturists do face the difficulty in running the tube-wells as and when they require but the prosperous ones are making use of the diesel engines for the purpose.
Tanks: Tanks are used in the Deccan plateau—especially in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and in some parts of Madhya Pradesh. They are made by filling natural hollows with water or by building dams across the river valleys. As the soil is rocky in these areas, it is not easy to sink wells. The soil is not porous and the rain water flows off; Canals cannot be constructed as the rivers are not snow-fed. So the tanks are the chief means of irrigation in the Deccan plateau.
Volcanoes and Earthquakes
Volcanoes: By the pressure of the earth’s crust the hot matter or lava in the interior of the earth is pressed down. It gushes out through a crack or a hole when it finds a weak spot in the crust and begins to accumulate round it. By and by it cools down and solidifies and in the course of several years these accumulated layers of lava build up a conical mountain. Such lava mountains are called volcanoes.
Volcanoes are also formed when rain or sea water percolates in the soil and sinks deep down into the earth where it is converted into steam by the internal heat and forces its way out of the crust bringing with it large quantity of lava etc.
Earthquakes: (i) When an active volcano bursts with great force or when a dormant volcano erupts into activity, the surrounding areas feel tremors and earthquake is caused. (ii) When the interior part of the earth cools down and contracts, the outer crust cracks or a part of it actually drops down causing earthquake. (iii) Sometimes water percolates deep down into the earth and is converted into steam on account of internal heat. This steam forces its way out by expanding and thus causes earthquake shocks.
Fold and Block Mountains
Fold Mountains: These are formed as a result of series of earthquakes by which in course of a long time, rocks are folded up above the general level and the agents of denudation start to wear them away. The Himalayas, the Andes, the Alps are example of Fold Mountains.
Block Mountains: the formation of mountains when a mass of land is pushed up between several cracks, is known as Block Mountains as shown in the figure below. The narrow piece of the crust led down between two parallel cracks forms what is called “Rift Valley”.
Mountain Ranges
Himalayas: The Himalayan ranges stretch for about 2400 km from the eastern extremity of Assam to the western limit of Kashmir. Their width varies from 150 km to 450 km. These are fold mountains and consist of long lines of folded ranges.
Arvalies: It stretches from Gujarat in the west to Delhi in the north.
Indian Plateau: It is the table-land region of the Deccan lying south of the Indo-Gangetic Plain. It is bounded on the north by the ranges of Vindhyas and the Satpuras running east to west.
Vindhyas and Satpura: The Vindhyas lie north of the Narbada Valley, whereas the Satpuras Range lies south. Satpura ranges are an example of Volcanic mountains.
Western Ghats: In the west, the plateau is margined by the Western Ghats which rise abruptly from the Malabar and the Konkan coasts and run parallel to the sea coast with an average height of 1200 metres.
Eastern Ghats: Towards the east are broken Eastern Ghats which descend to the low-lands of the Coromandal coast and are broken by a number of rivers, the most important of which are the Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna, Penner and Cauvery. These rivers flow south-east across the plateau to the Bay of Bengal.
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The Earth—Its Motions and their Effects
The earth has two motions, viz., (1) Rotation around its axis or the daily motion. The axis of the earth is an imaginary line inclined at 66.5° to the plane of the orbit of the earth. The earth rotates round its axis from west to east once in 24 hours. Effects: Days and nights are caused. The sun, moon and other heavenly bodies appear to revolve round the earth from east to west. Direction of winds and currents is changed.
(2) Revolution round the sun on its orbit, or the annual motion: The earth revolves round the sun once in about 365.25 days. Effects: It causes seasons; days and nights are of unequal length at the same place.
Important elements in the earth’s crust
The five most abundant elements in the earth’s crust are: Oxygen, Silicon, Aluminium, Iron and Calcium. (The other three are Sodium, Potassium and Magnesium.)
Oceans—Their Importance
Oceans are the source of all water on earth as the evaporated water from over their surface is brought to earth by the winds passing over them. They are the highways of the world and most of the world trade is carried through the sea. Innumerable fish and other animals living in the oceans are a great source of food to mankind. Minerals like salt, iodine etc. are derived from the ocean waters and sea-weeds.
Ocean Currents: are rivers of warm or cold water flowing in an ocean. Their banks and beds also consist of water.
Natural Regions
A natural region is a large area in which the topography, climate and vegetation are largely similar, and therefore there is a certain uniformity in human activities.
Natural Regions of the World
(1) Equatorial Region (2) Hot-Grassland Region (3) Monsoon Region (4) Hot Deserts Region (5) Mediterranean Region (6) Steppe Region (7) Tundra Region (8) Warm Temperate Region (9) Cool Temperate Region.
Natural Regions of India
(1) The Himalayas and the adjacent mountains; (2) The Sutlej-Ganga plains; (3) The coastal plains of Western and Eastern ghats; (4) The Deccan plateau.
Factors Determining Climate of a Place
(1) Distance from the Equator (2) Height above sea-level (3) Distance from the sea (4) Winds (5) Direction of Mountains (6) Ocean currents (7) Slope of land (8) Nature of the soil (9) Forests.
Factors Determining Temperature
(i) sun rays, (ii) height above sea-level (iii) movements of atmospheric winds, (iv) ocean currents.
Rainfall
Two important conditions must be satisfied in order to have rain: (1) There should be moisture-laden air, (2) There should be some means whereby air is cooled and condensation takes place. The air obtains water vapours by evaporation from the surface of large bodies of water, usually from the sea.
Monsoons in India
Monsoons are periodic winds which blow from sea to land for six months in summer and from land to sea for six months in winter. Monsoon winds prevail over India at different seasons.
South-West Monsoons: These are rain-bearing winds which prevail from about the end of May to the end of September. During summer, the sun’s rays fall vertically on the Tropic of Cancer making the Indian plains intensely hot. But the rays of the sun fall obliquely over the Indian Ocean during this period. The land is hotter than the sea, there is, therefore, low pressure over the land and high pressure over the sea. The winds blow from high to low pressure i.e., from the sea to the land, and are therefore wet winds. Because of the rotation of the earth, the monsoon winds blowing over India deflect to the right after crossing the Equator and become south-west winds. These are, therefore, called south-west monsoons.
India depends largely on these rain-bearing south-west winds. These winds give to India about 90% of the total rainfall. During their prevalence, the chief crops cultivated are rice, cotton, tobacco, tea, jawar and bajra.
North-East Monsoons (or Winter Monsoons): During the months of November to January i.e., in winter, the sun’s rays fall vertically on the Tropic of Capricorn. The air over the Indian Ocean during this period thus becomes hot and light and there is low pressure. The sun’s rays fall obliquely on the plains of India during these months with the result that the air over these plains is cold and heavy and there is high pressure. The winds, therefore, blow from plains to the Indian Ocean. While crossing the Equator, they deflect to the left and are known as north-east monsoons.
The North-East Monsoons bring only about 10% of the total rain to India as they are chilly and dry land winds. But the moisture that they pick from the Bay of Bengal, little as it is, is very useful. Wheat, barley, oats, oilseeds and sugarcane are cultivated during this season.
Thus these monsoon winds have much importance for India.
Weather and Climate
Weather means the atmospheric conditions e.g., temperature, rainfall, humidity, winds, sunshine and cloudiness of a particular place on a particular day. Climate, on the other hand, is the average condition of weather obtaining in a country or a place for a considerable period.
India has a great diversity of climatic conditions. Lying largely within the tropics and in the great Asiatic Continent and the vast expanse of the Indian Ocean to the South, the climate of India is essentially the tropical monsoon type. The average annual rainfall in India is 42 inches.
Types of Soil in India
The main categories of soils in India are: (i) Alluvial soils (ii) Black soils (iii) Red soils (iv) Laterite soils (v) Mountain and hill soils (vi) Terai soils (vii) Desert (or Arid) soil and (viii) Peat soils.
Alluvial soil and Black soil
Alluvial soil is that soil which is formed by deposition of silts brought down by the rivers. It is rich in hydrated oxides of iron and is very fertile. Black soil or the black cotton soil has a good water-holding capacity and is best suited for deep-rooted crops like cotton. The black soil in wet condition is compact and sticky.
The most extensive soil cover of India comprises alluvial soils.
Soil Erosion: The soils are usually six to twelve inches in depth. In course of time, the fertility level of the soil is depleted with the result that the soil no longer remains suitable for agriculture. Soil conservation is, therefore, necessary for continued agricultural prosperity.
The agencies of erosion are winds, water and waves of which the water erosion is most common. Rain water removes soil from the surface of sloping lands. Winds remove top soil of lands.
Laterite soils are formed by the weathering of laterite rocks. These can be distinguished from other soils by their acidity. Laterite soils are generally poor on the higher levels and cannot retain moisture. In the plains, however, they consist of heavy loams and clay and can retain moisture.
Laterite soils occur in Madhya Pradesh, Assam and along the Eastern and Western Ghats. Tea plantation requires acidity which is there in the laterite soil. It is, therefore, common in these areas.
Star and Planet
Star is the name given to a fixed celestial body which has its own light whereas Planet is the name given to a celestial body which revolves round the sun in elliptical (regular oval shape) orbit. A planet has no light of its own but reflects the light of the sun.
Rocks
Three main groups of rocks: Igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic.
Classification of rocks
Igneous rocks: granite.
Sedimentary rocks: sandstone; limestone; shale; coal.
Metamorphic rocks: marble.
Phyllite: This rock is formed by deposits of animal shells and skeletons.
Land Breeze and Sea Breeze
Land Breeze: At night, land masses cool quicker than the sea. Therefore, in calm, cloudless weather, an air-stream passes from the land to the sea. This breeze carries no moisture, and is a little warm.
Sea Breeze: In day-time, the land is hotter than the sea. The air over it rises, and is replaced by a cool breeze from the sea carrying some moisture.
Tides
Alternate rise and fall of waters of the ocean twice in the course of nearly twenty four hours is termed as “tides”. The tides are caused by the gravitational force exerted by the moon and to a lesser degree by the sun, on the earth. The tides do not always rise to the same height. At the time of the new and full moon, when the sun and moon are in a straight line with the earth, the tides rise higher and are known as Spring Tides. Midway between new and full moon when the sun and the moon are at right angles as to their direction from the earth, tides are at the lowest height and are called Neap Tides.
Spring Tides and Neap Tides
When a high tide is caused twice a month at new moon and again when the moon is full, spring tide is caused as a result of combined attraction of the sun and the moon.
When the high tide is not so high, nor the low tide so low, neap tides are caused as a result of the difference of attraction of the sun and the moon.
Seasons
The change of seasons is due to (i) revolution of the earth round the sun (ii) inclination of earth’s axis at 66.5° to the plane of its orbit and always pointing to the same direction. On the 21st June, the North Pole is inclined towards the sun and the South Pole is inclined away from it. The rays of the sun fall perpendicularly at the Tropic of Cancer (23.5° North) and fall comparatively slanting in the southern hemisphere. Hence the days are longer than nights in the northern hemisphere and it is summer there. Just opposite is the case in the southern hemisphere where the nights are longer at that time and it is winter there.
Latitudes and Longitudes
India lies entirely to the north of the Equator, between latitudes 8°-4´ and 37°-6´ north and longitude 68°-7´ and 97°-25´ east.
The latitude of the South Pole is 90°. South Pole has no longitude.
Longitude of a place is its distance east or west of a fixed meridian. The distance of any place north or south of the Equator is called the Latitude of that place.
Parallels of latitude: are lines drawn on a map (or globe) showing the latitude of a place.
Meridians (or lines) of longitude: These are lines drawn on a map (or globe) showing the longitude of a place. These lines join the north and south pole cutting the Equator at right angles.
(Latitudes and Longitudes should be clearly distinguished from Parallels of Latitude and Meridians of Longitude respectively.)
By knowing these lines, we can find out exact location of a place. By knowing the latitude of a place we can find out its average temperature, as also its distance from the Equator. By knowing the longitude of a place, we can calculate its local time.
Longitude is the angular distance of a place east or west of the prime meridian. The earth rotates upon its axis once in 24 hours and covers 360° in 24 hours. Thus it takes 60 x 24/360 or 4 minutes to cover a degree of longitude or we may say that in four minutes, the earth moves through 1°. There is thus a difference of 4 minutes for each degree of longitude. This fact is used for determining the longitude of a place. All longitudes are measured from the meridian of Greenwich.
We can determine the latitude of a place in the northern hemisphere by measuring the altitude of the Pole Star. The altitude of the Pole Star is the latitude of that place. For example, if the altitude of Pole Star at Delhi is 28.5° North, its latitude will also be 28.5°N. The altitude of Pole Star is measured by an instrument called Sextant.
Solar Eclipse and Lunar Eclipse
Solar Eclipse: is the partial or complete obscuration of the sun because of the passage of the moon in front of it i.e., when the moon comes in between the sun and the earth.
The moon then appears as a dark object obscuring the sun. Over a small portion of the earth’s surface, the moon is seen to blot out the sun completely and a total eclipse is seen by the people in that particular area. But over most of the earth’s surface, the eclipse seen is partial because only a portion of the sun’s face remains covered by the moon.
Lunar Eclipse: is the partial or complete obscuration of the moon’s surface when the earth comes in between the sun and the moon. The moon, when it moves through the shadow of the earth, loses its bright direct illumination by the sun, although its disc still remains faintly visible.
An eclipse of the moon is visible and presents the same features at all places on the earth where the moon is above the horizon. The lunar eclipse can be seen with the naked eye, field glass or a small telescope.
The lunar eclipse occurs at full moon only when the earth comes in between the sun and the moon which phenomenon does not occur at every full moon.
Indian Standard Time
The Indian Standard Time is a uniform time adopted by all palces in India without regard to their local time. It is usual for each country to have its standard time for use over the whole country as it would be very difficult if every town or village had its own local time and whenever we moved from one place to another, we should have to alter our watches.
Indian Standard Time is the local time of a place near Allahabad situated at 82.5° East longitude.
Winds
Air moving from one direction to another horizontally is called wind. It is the air in motion.
Cause of Wind: The chief cause of winds is difference in pressure. Air always moves from region of high pressure to a region of low pressure to equalize the pressure. For example, the low pressure belt round the Equator is a region of calm known as the doldrums. Although there are no regular winds there, violent squalls and thunderstorms are frequent which come from high pressure areas north and south of the Equator.
Direction of Winds: As the earth is rotating daily on its axis from west to east, all winds are deflected. According to Ferrel’s Law, winds are deflected to the right in Northern Hemisphere and to the left in the Southern Hemisphere.
Characteristics of the important Wind Systems of the World:
1. Trade Winds: The rays of the sun fall almost vertically at the Equator and the air there becomes hot and the pressure is low. The air rises towards the Poles and descends near 30°N and 30°S. The pressure is high near 30°N and 30°S. Because winds blow from high-pressure to low-pressure areas, winds from over these altitudes blow towards the Equator and Trade Winds are caused.
2. Westerlies (or Anti-Trade Winds): are winds which blow from about 40 degrees N to the Arctic Circle and from about 35 degrees S to the Antarctic Circle throughout the year. They derive their name from the direction in which they blow. In the northern hemisphere they blow in the south-westerly direction and bring winter rain to the Mediterranean regions etc. In the southern hemisphere, they blow in a north-westerly direction.
3. Polar Winds: The winds which blow from the high pressure area around the poles towards the temperate regions are known as polar winds. They are extremely cold. They rise from the North West in the Northern Hemisphere and from the South East in the Southern Hemisphere.
4. Periodical Winds: These are (i) Land and Sea Breezes and (ii) Monsoons which blow in one direction at a particular time or during a particular season. In the hot season in India, the sun shines vertically over the Tropic of Cancer, i.e., roughly over the great plains of the Ganges and Brahmaputra so that the air over the plains becomes very hot by about the month of May. At this time, South West Monsoon commences to blow. They bring heavy rains. Monsoon winds prevail over India at different seasons. India depends on the rain-bearing south-west winds which prevail from about the end of May to the end of September. These winds bring to India about 90% of all the rain that falls there.
5. Variable Winds: are the irregular winds as Cyclones and Anti-Cyclones.
Rainfall
There is heavy rainfall on the West coast because the Western Ghat ranges receive the full force of the monsoons from the Arabian sea and there is heavy rainfall (about 100 inches). On the other hand, the Deccan Plateau gets very scanty rainfall because it falls within the rain-shadow area.
Chennai gets winter rainfall as the north-east monsoons which blow in winter pick up moisture from the Bay of Bengal and bring rain to that city.
The Bay of Bengal monsoons first bring rain to the eastern parts and then turn westwards. As Kolkata is in the east, it receives more rainfall. As the monsoons blow westwards they become drier and cause less rainfall. So Delhi does not get as much rainfall as Kolkata.
In the northern region, the Bay of Bengal monsoons first bring rain to eastern parts and then turn westwards. As the monsoons blow westwards, they go on losing moisture and cause decreasing rainfall.
In the southern region, the Arabian Sea monsoons first strike the western ghats and the moisture is drained on the western side whereas rainfall goes on decreasing towards eastern region.
Two important conditions must be satisfied in order to have rain: (1) There should be moisture-laden air, (2) There should be some means whereby air is cooled and condensation takes place. The air obtains water vapours by evaporation from the surface of large bodies of water, usually from the sea.
The moisture-laden air is cooled in two ways: (i) by rising upward into colder upper regions of the atmosphere, (ii) by blowing as wind to colder regions.
Thus we see: (a) Moist air is lighter than dry air and so it readily rises, expands in a short time, cools and falls. (b) When warm winds blow towards cooler regions, it is condensed by cooling effect and rain falls. (c) The land masses or mountains also tend to condense water vapours. When moisture-laden wind is obstructed by mountains, it is forced to rise. As it rises, it becomes cool and rainfall results.
Rivers
The work of a river is three-fold:
(i) The Mountain Stage: The mountain or upper course of a river is swift as the slope at this stage of a river is steep. The main work of a river at this stage is denudation (wearing away). In this swift upper course, the rivers carry big stones, pebbles etc. which go on eroding the sides and beds of the valleys. As time goes on, the river cuts away the spurs on both sides and the valleys become wider and deeper. The mountain stage of the Ganges in India extends from its source up to Hardwar.
(ii) The Plain Stage: In this stage the river moves slowly as the slope is gradual and its main work is transportation (navigation) and irrigation. The plain stage of the Ganges extends from Hardwar to Bhagalpur.
(iii) The Delta Stage: This is the last stage and the rivers are very slow at this stage. In this slow lower or deltaic course, the main work of the river is deposition. The level of the bed at this stage rises due to mud and silt brought by it and deposited into several channels before falling into the sea. The Ganges forms her delta from Bhagalpur up to the sea.
The deltas are not formed at the mouths of rivers where tides carry away all the mud and silt deposited (at the mouth) e.g., the Narbada and the Tapti do not form any delta. Also rivers which deposit all their mud into the lakes through which they pass do not form delta e.g., the St Lawrence in Canada.
Estuary is formed at the mouth of a river where tidal effects are evident and where fresh water and sea water mix. In most cases it is due to subsidence of coastal low-land.
Delta is the triangular piece of land formed by the deposition of mud and silt near the mouth of a river. In the case of delta formation, more solid material is deposited which cannot be removed by tidal or other currents.
The rivers of Northern India are more important than those of Southern India because they have a flow of water throughout the year. Even in summer these rivers receive water from the melting of Himalayan snow. Flowing through broad basins, they form large tracts or rich alluvial soil on either side. It is no wonder, therefore, that their fertile basin are the natural grannaries of the country. Further, the Ganga and the Brahmaputra are navigable and provide excellent waterways for commerce. The Peninsular rivers, on the other hand, have water during the monsoons but shrivel into muddy pools in the dry season. These rivers are of little use for navigation on account of their torrential nature in the upper course, and the rapids that occur where they descend into deep gorges from the table land to the coastal plains.
Climate and Vegetation
The Equatorial type climate, in which the temperature remains high all the year round but does not vary much, produces hot, wet forests.
The Tropical type climate produces grasslands which are found on either side of the equatorial belt where the rainfall usually occurs soon after the sun has been shining vertically while the dry season occurs in the colder part of the year.
The lowlands along the Tropic of Cancer lie mainly in the high-pressure belt just outside the Tropics. The Trade Winds blow away from these lowlands towards the Equator and the Westerly winds blow away from them towards the Poles. There are, therefore, no winds to bring rain to this region. Some of these lowlands are dry because these are very very far from the sea, like centre of Asia. There are few clouds and very little rain with the result that the sun’s rays strike straight on the ground and make the days very hot.
The temperature of the ocean varies much less than that of land because (i) water has a higher specific heat than land with the result that it both absorbs and loses heat slowly as compared to land; and (ii) due to large surface of water at sea more evaporation occurs than on land. Evaporation causes cooling and this results in the sea having a lower temperature than that on land.
We may divide India into two parts for the purpose of climatological studies: (1) peninsular India and (2) Northern India. Peninsular India has the characteristic of tropical climate where “the temperature is uniformly high and seasonal variation relatively low”.
The climatic conditions in Northern India have no general similarity. This region lies beyond the Tropic of Cancer. The Western part of it includes East Punjab and Rajasthan where air is devoid of moisture and it is hot in summer and very cold in winter. The eastern part of this region includes U.P., Bihar, Assam and West Bengal. Here winter is mild and summer is very hot with plenty of moisture in the air.
These climatic conditions are however, disturbed by two Monsoon Currents—the South West Monsoon and the North-East Monsoon. The South-West Monsoon causes heavy rainfall in Assam, West Bengal and U.P. It begins to retreat from Northern India in early October and this retreat is completed by mid-December. During this retreat period the weather in Northern India becomes dry.
The North-East monsoons begin in January and last till March. These winds cause light rain in Northern India, particularly in the Punjab plains. This scanty rainfall is very important for Rabi crops.
Vegetation: Agriculture is the most important occupation of the people of India. In Northern India, typical monsoon land crops are grown such as rice in Bengal with its warm and humid climate; wheat and maize in Northern plains, Punjab and U.P.; jute in Bengal and Assam and tea in Assam.
In Peninsular India where regur or black cotton soil is found and sufficient moisture available, cotton is grown. It is the chief crop of the Deccan Peninsula—Mumbai and Berar being the chief producers. Coffee is grown on the Nilgiris in the South.
Climatic Effect: India has on the whole monsoon-tropical climate: ‘Monsoon—lands are dominated by the winds from sea to land in summer—the wet season and by winds from land to sea in winter—the dry season.’ This type of climate is not very conducive to health and vigour. Man’s well-being in such a climate depends largely on rainfall. The agricultural products do not grow if the monsoon fails and famine conditions break out. This dependence on rain, however, is not absolute owing to development of irrigation by means of projects, canals, wells etc.
The desert type climate is hot and dry. The rainfall is scanty, not more than 10 inches a year. The day and night temperatures vary to much extent. The evenings and afternoons are marked by hot dust storms.
The regions lie mainly in the high-pressure belts just outside the Tropics. The Trade Winds blow away from them towards the Equator and the Westerly Winds blow away from them towards the Poles. There are no winds which bring rain to this region and the climate remains hot and dry.
Mediterranean Climate
It is the type of climate experienced by the lands bordering the Mediterranean Sea, and also by other regions, in both hemispheres, situated in a similar geographical position. The characteristic features are warmth of the summer, mildness of the winter, and ample sunshine.
The entire west coast of the United States has Mediterranean type of climate because this region gets winter rainfall from “Westerlies” winds.
Irrigation
Methods of Irrigation: The various systems of irrigation used in India are: (1) Canals; (2) Wells; (3) Tube-wells; and (4) Tanks.
Canals: Canals are the most important of the systems of irrigation in India because:
(i) the rivers are snow-fed and never run dry; (ii) the plain has a soft and alluvial soil, so canals can be easily dug; (iii) the rainfall is insufficient for irrigation and wells alone cannot satisfy the needs of agriculturists.
Of the total irrigated land in India, 40 per cent is irrigated by canals.
Wells: Wells are found all over India but these are largely used in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana and Bihar. They are also used in Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra and Rajasthan. The reason for irrigation by wells is that the soil is porous and after a rainfall, water is stored up below the soil, and wells can be easily sunk.
Tube-wells: Irrigation by tube-wells has become very popular these days. Tube-wells are worked by electric power. These are much deeper than the ordinary wells. Due to shortage of power, the agriculturists do face the difficulty in running the tube-wells as and when they require but the prosperous ones are making use of the diesel engines for the purpose.
Tanks: Tanks are used in the Deccan plateau—especially in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and in some parts of Madhya Pradesh. They are made by filling natural hollows with water or by building dams across the river valleys. As the soil is rocky in these areas, it is not easy to sink wells. The soil is not porous and the rain water flows off; Canals cannot be constructed as the rivers are not snow-fed. So the tanks are the chief means of irrigation in the Deccan plateau.
Volcanoes and Earthquakes
Volcanoes: By the pressure of the earth’s crust the hot matter or lava in the interior of the earth is pressed down. It gushes out through a crack or a hole when it finds a weak spot in the crust and begins to accumulate round it. By and by it cools down and solidifies and in the course of several years these accumulated layers of lava build up a conical mountain. Such lava mountains are called volcanoes.
Volcanoes are also formed when rain or sea water percolates in the soil and sinks deep down into the earth where it is converted into steam by the internal heat and forces its way out of the crust bringing with it large quantity of lava etc.
Earthquakes: (i) When an active volcano bursts with great force or when a dormant volcano erupts into activity, the surrounding areas feel tremors and earthquake is caused. (ii) When the interior part of the earth cools down and contracts, the outer crust cracks or a part of it actually drops down causing earthquake. (iii) Sometimes water percolates deep down into the earth and is converted into steam on account of internal heat. This steam forces its way out by expanding and thus causes earthquake shocks.
Fold and Block Mountains
Fold Mountains: These are formed as a result of series of earthquakes by which in course of a long time, rocks are folded up above the general level and the agents of denudation start to wear them away. The Himalayas, the Andes, the Alps are example of Fold Mountains.
Block Mountains: the formation of mountains when a mass of land is pushed up between several cracks, is known as Block Mountains as shown in the figure below. The narrow piece of the crust led down between two parallel cracks forms what is called “Rift Valley”.
Mountain Ranges
Himalayas: The Himalayan ranges stretch for about 2400 km from the eastern extremity of Assam to the western limit of Kashmir. Their width varies from 150 km to 450 km. These are fold mountains and consist of long lines of folded ranges.
Arvalies: It stretches from Gujarat in the west to Delhi in the north.
Indian Plateau: It is the table-land region of the Deccan lying south of the Indo-Gangetic Plain. It is bounded on the north by the ranges of Vindhyas and the Satpuras running east to west.
Vindhyas and Satpura: The Vindhyas lie north of the Narbada Valley, whereas the Satpuras Range lies south. Satpura ranges are an example of Volcanic mountains.
Western Ghats: In the west, the plateau is margined by the Western Ghats which rise abruptly from the Malabar and the Konkan coasts and run parallel to the sea coast with an average height of 1200 metres.
Eastern Ghats: Towards the east are broken Eastern Ghats which descend to the low-lands of the Coromandal coast and are broken by a number of rivers, the most important of which are the Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna, Penner and Cauvery. These rivers flow south-east across the plateau to the Bay of Bengal.
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DEVELOPMENT AND SOCIAL GAPS
DEVELOPMENT AND SOCIAL GAPS
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Some right thinking people feel that breakneck development in the name of liberalisation deepens social gaps. Express your views on the subject of development versus social disparities.
Globalisation/liberalisation has given an unprecedented push to development, as a result of which the tempo of life has acquired both success and stress, incentives and impatience, achievements and angst. Besides these candid contradictions, research and development the world over has opened new vistas of opportunities in service sectors, travel and tourism, infrastructure and industry. The spread of a culture of emergency and the accelerated pace of development has increased the volatility of economics which, in turn, has led to deepening social gaps, thereby increasing social tensions and instability. Nearer home, the rise of naxalism in different parts of the country is a strong pointer to the disparities that fast-paced development has brought in its trail.
For a developing country like India, it is not only the urban-rural divide and deepening social gaps that confront us, but we also have to cope with the sway of individualism over the binding force of a collectivist society. There is, and will be a decline in social values.
It is feared that the ever-widening gulf between the haves and have-nots, knowledge and ignorance is bound to increase if development without social equity is preferred and promoted. Inequality and the feeling of being left behind and outside can be a seed to social conflicts and confrontation between the privileged and the deprived. No doubt, without development the multi-faceted problems of poverty, ignorance, disease, deprivation etc. cannot be tackled. But it is equally true that the fruits of development should reach those who need them the most.
http://careerprakashan.com/
Some right thinking people feel that breakneck development in the name of liberalisation deepens social gaps. Express your views on the subject of development versus social disparities.
Globalisation/liberalisation has given an unprecedented push to development, as a result of which the tempo of life has acquired both success and stress, incentives and impatience, achievements and angst. Besides these candid contradictions, research and development the world over has opened new vistas of opportunities in service sectors, travel and tourism, infrastructure and industry. The spread of a culture of emergency and the accelerated pace of development has increased the volatility of economics which, in turn, has led to deepening social gaps, thereby increasing social tensions and instability. Nearer home, the rise of naxalism in different parts of the country is a strong pointer to the disparities that fast-paced development has brought in its trail.
For a developing country like India, it is not only the urban-rural divide and deepening social gaps that confront us, but we also have to cope with the sway of individualism over the binding force of a collectivist society. There is, and will be a decline in social values.
It is feared that the ever-widening gulf between the haves and have-nots, knowledge and ignorance is bound to increase if development without social equity is preferred and promoted. Inequality and the feeling of being left behind and outside can be a seed to social conflicts and confrontation between the privileged and the deprived. No doubt, without development the multi-faceted problems of poverty, ignorance, disease, deprivation etc. cannot be tackled. But it is equally true that the fruits of development should reach those who need them the most.
Politics of Development
Politics of Development
http://careerprakashan.com/
The best way to inspire and involve the Indian youth in making India an upcoming economic power is for all political parties to engage themselves in politics of development. In your well-considered opinion what measures should be adopted to achieve the goal.
Needless to reiterate and reaffirm that India needs politics of development rather than the politics of polemics and populism. More than ever before, both people and political parties should see to it that they work for harmony and not for acrimony among people professing different faiths and practising varied ways of conduct and character in their day to day lives. No other concern and consideration should weigh on the perceptions and priorities of politicians, programmers and planners, except those that enhance developmental activities in all walks of life and ultimately help improve quality of life of those subsisting at the lowest levels of our socio-economic ladder. It is time now that political parties of every hue and hype focused their manifestos, programmes and policies on developmental vision and pragmatic approach and action to achieve the goals of social
justice. There is no denying that the most effective measure in this direction is the involvement of youth in developmental activities and a harmonious harnessing of their youthful energies and enthusiasm. For this to happen on the ground, we, as an upcoming nation, need to orient ourselves towards development, whether on farms or in factories, on technologies or service sectors, et al.
In order to make the best use of resources, both human and natural, all political parties must converge on developmental politics, because without development we cannot hope to engage our youth in constructive and creative activities, nor can we envisage a situation in future when poverty would be a thing of the past. It is true that barring a few examples, we do not have many icons among our political parties. The youth needs role models that only politicians can provide, because they wield power and affect people and their proclivities in large measure. Political parties should visualise a situation in future where our burgeoning youth should see an imprint of great leaders in every action.
It goes without saying that people’s ethos, values and character are crucial factors that determine whether the country will move forward on a progressive path or stagnate. The education system, along with many other channels and sources of knowledge, must concentrate on cultivating in every citizen a sense of eternal values, as well as instilling discipline among them. The media, too, as partner in national development, should celebrate the success of the people and become an invigorating instrument of inspiring the youth by highlighting the best and the most unique among those who shine like stars in the firmament of our political spectrum.
http://careerprakashan.com/
The best way to inspire and involve the Indian youth in making India an upcoming economic power is for all political parties to engage themselves in politics of development. In your well-considered opinion what measures should be adopted to achieve the goal.
Needless to reiterate and reaffirm that India needs politics of development rather than the politics of polemics and populism. More than ever before, both people and political parties should see to it that they work for harmony and not for acrimony among people professing different faiths and practising varied ways of conduct and character in their day to day lives. No other concern and consideration should weigh on the perceptions and priorities of politicians, programmers and planners, except those that enhance developmental activities in all walks of life and ultimately help improve quality of life of those subsisting at the lowest levels of our socio-economic ladder. It is time now that political parties of every hue and hype focused their manifestos, programmes and policies on developmental vision and pragmatic approach and action to achieve the goals of social
justice. There is no denying that the most effective measure in this direction is the involvement of youth in developmental activities and a harmonious harnessing of their youthful energies and enthusiasm. For this to happen on the ground, we, as an upcoming nation, need to orient ourselves towards development, whether on farms or in factories, on technologies or service sectors, et al.
In order to make the best use of resources, both human and natural, all political parties must converge on developmental politics, because without development we cannot hope to engage our youth in constructive and creative activities, nor can we envisage a situation in future when poverty would be a thing of the past. It is true that barring a few examples, we do not have many icons among our political parties. The youth needs role models that only politicians can provide, because they wield power and affect people and their proclivities in large measure. Political parties should visualise a situation in future where our burgeoning youth should see an imprint of great leaders in every action.
It goes without saying that people’s ethos, values and character are crucial factors that determine whether the country will move forward on a progressive path or stagnate. The education system, along with many other channels and sources of knowledge, must concentrate on cultivating in every citizen a sense of eternal values, as well as instilling discipline among them. The media, too, as partner in national development, should celebrate the success of the people and become an invigorating instrument of inspiring the youth by highlighting the best and the most unique among those who shine like stars in the firmament of our political spectrum.
Tuesday 28 February 2012
Careers in Banking
Careers in Banking
http://careerprakashan.com/Banking has emerged as one of the most challenging sectors in the country. Openings are available at various levels, from Bank Clerical to Probationary Officers (PO). There is great job security and the salary is very good, besides the perquisites of loans for employees. It is a lucrative career: till recently careers existed only in nationalised banks, but with liberalisation, a host of private banks have been set up. As a result, demand for trained professionals has increased substantially. The private banks offer better salaries but then the job security is also less.
The advertisements for recruitment appear from time to time in newspapers as well as the Employment News. Recruitment is done on the basis of a written test, which consists of:
a) Test of Reasoning
b) Quantitative Aptitude
c) General Awareness
d) English Language
e) Descriptive Test
Except for the descriptive portion, all other sections contain objective-type questions. In Reasoning, there is verbal and non-verbal sections. In English, the test is aimed at judging the overall comprehension and understanding of the language. The Descriptive Paper can be answered in English or Hindi. It judges the written expression of the candidates. All sections must be qualified.
How to Prepare
Bank exams -- both clerical and PO -- are taken by lakhs of candidates. There is intense competition as the number of vacancies is small. A high degree of preparation is required in order to get through.
To be successful, regular practice in all the sections is essential. All the sections are adequately covered by The Competition Master.
It is advisable to do the basics first. After this, start doing section tests, from Reasoning, Maths, English, etc. Try to get a good score in each section. After that, do some full-length tests which contain all the sections, within the stipulated time. Candidates are also advised to prepare for the interview simultaneously and take care to develop their personality and confidence. After the written examination, the short-listed candidates are called for an interview. General questions are asked to check the candidate's General Awareness and relevant issues related to Economics.
For the Descriptive Paper, refer to sample questions published in The Competition Master. The candidate must have a good expression and the sentences must be grammatically correct. An important aspect is hand-writing. Many candidates write almost illegibly, which examiners cannot read. They are thus unable to get a good score. Efforts must be made to improve your handwriting as well, as this could be a major shortcoming in the written paper. Apart from this, it may be said that the candidate must be aware of current issues to be able to write something on them.
There are a number of books and correspondence courses available for bank preparatory examinations. There is, however, no substitute for self-study and self-preparation. Regular studies, systematic preparations, self-confidence and regular practice, is all that is required to pass this exam.
Different routes
While recruitment in nationalised banks is done through competitive exams, recruitment in private banks is mostly direct. The private sector banks recruit MBAs and Chartered Accountants directly. Lower down the line, fresh graduates can hope to find jobs as direct marketing executives, personal banking executives and home banking executives. For such jobs, all that is needed is a pleasing personality.
One can also do a specialised course in banking from a number of universities offering such courses.
Among these are:
University of Madras, Centenary Buildings, Chepauk, Chennai-600005, which offers a Certificate course in Banking.
The Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh-202 002, offers a 1-year course.
One can also do a Diploma in Bank Administration from Ravishankar University, Raipur-492 010.
Guru Ghasidas University, PO Koni, Bilaspur-495 009.
Maharishi Dayanand University, Rohtak-124 001.
Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Vadodara-390 002.
Other universities offering diplomas or certificate courses in different aspects of banking (law, management and administration, masters degree) are:
Gujarat University, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad-380 003.
Utkal University, PO Vani Vihar, Bhubaneshwar-751 004.
Annamalai University, PO Annamalai Nagar-608 002; Sri Venkateshwara University, Tirupati-517 502.
SNDT Women's University, 1, Nathibai Thackeray Road, Mumbai-400 020.
University of Rajasthan, Jaipur-302 004.
Shivaji University, Vidyanagar, Kolhapur-416 004.
Marathwada University, Aurangabad-431 604.
Bhartidasan University, Palkalai Perum, Tiruchirapalli-620 024.
Manipur University, Canchipur, Imphal-795 003.
The eligibility criteria is different for different courses and candidates are advised to check these out directly from the universities concerned.
http://careerprakashan.com/
Job Prospects
As banking is a growing industry, the job prospects are good. In nationalised banks, one can expect regular promotions while in private banks it is performance that is rewarded. Promotions may be swift for deserving candidates. But it is not necessary to be a banking professional only to get into banks. As financial services are getting automated, the industry requires a large number of computer experts, both in computer maintenance and software. Private computer service contractors are also in great demand. It would be important to have a BE or MCA degree for such jobs.
Bank jobs come with responsibility. As the banker handles other people's money, it is a job that requires trust. The person must also be service-oriented and like to look after customers. This is where private banks score over nationalised banks, but as profitability begins to play a major role in nationalised banks, there is bound to be pressure there as well to keep customers happy.
One reason to be excited about banking as a career is the rapid change taking place. Not only is there fresh competition, but technology promises to change the face of banking forever. The jobs are becoming comfortable, in the sense that the physical environment is pleasing and computerisation has taken the load off tedious jobs such as balancing accounts. As competition increases, a good banker will certainly be in great demand.
On the other hand, a career in banking entails frequent transfers. Also, it must be remembered that a banking job involves working long hours. When accounts are to be finalised, a bank employee has to put in long hours indeed.
Assess your aptitude before you join a career in banking.
All jobs require hard work. The personality required is a mix: for marketing and meeting customers an outgoing personality is required, while for keeping accounts a diligent and persevering attitude is required.
http://careerprakashan.com/Banking has emerged as one of the most challenging sectors in the country. Openings are available at various levels, from Bank Clerical to Probationary Officers (PO). There is great job security and the salary is very good, besides the perquisites of loans for employees. It is a lucrative career: till recently careers existed only in nationalised banks, but with liberalisation, a host of private banks have been set up. As a result, demand for trained professionals has increased substantially. The private banks offer better salaries but then the job security is also less.
The advertisements for recruitment appear from time to time in newspapers as well as the Employment News. Recruitment is done on the basis of a written test, which consists of:
a) Test of Reasoning
b) Quantitative Aptitude
c) General Awareness
d) English Language
e) Descriptive Test
Except for the descriptive portion, all other sections contain objective-type questions. In Reasoning, there is verbal and non-verbal sections. In English, the test is aimed at judging the overall comprehension and understanding of the language. The Descriptive Paper can be answered in English or Hindi. It judges the written expression of the candidates. All sections must be qualified.
How to Prepare
Bank exams -- both clerical and PO -- are taken by lakhs of candidates. There is intense competition as the number of vacancies is small. A high degree of preparation is required in order to get through.
To be successful, regular practice in all the sections is essential. All the sections are adequately covered by The Competition Master.
It is advisable to do the basics first. After this, start doing section tests, from Reasoning, Maths, English, etc. Try to get a good score in each section. After that, do some full-length tests which contain all the sections, within the stipulated time. Candidates are also advised to prepare for the interview simultaneously and take care to develop their personality and confidence. After the written examination, the short-listed candidates are called for an interview. General questions are asked to check the candidate's General Awareness and relevant issues related to Economics.
For the Descriptive Paper, refer to sample questions published in The Competition Master. The candidate must have a good expression and the sentences must be grammatically correct. An important aspect is hand-writing. Many candidates write almost illegibly, which examiners cannot read. They are thus unable to get a good score. Efforts must be made to improve your handwriting as well, as this could be a major shortcoming in the written paper. Apart from this, it may be said that the candidate must be aware of current issues to be able to write something on them.
There are a number of books and correspondence courses available for bank preparatory examinations. There is, however, no substitute for self-study and self-preparation. Regular studies, systematic preparations, self-confidence and regular practice, is all that is required to pass this exam.
Different routes
While recruitment in nationalised banks is done through competitive exams, recruitment in private banks is mostly direct. The private sector banks recruit MBAs and Chartered Accountants directly. Lower down the line, fresh graduates can hope to find jobs as direct marketing executives, personal banking executives and home banking executives. For such jobs, all that is needed is a pleasing personality.
One can also do a specialised course in banking from a number of universities offering such courses.
Among these are:
University of Madras, Centenary Buildings, Chepauk, Chennai-600005, which offers a Certificate course in Banking.
The Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh-202 002, offers a 1-year course.
One can also do a Diploma in Bank Administration from Ravishankar University, Raipur-492 010.
Guru Ghasidas University, PO Koni, Bilaspur-495 009.
Maharishi Dayanand University, Rohtak-124 001.
Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Vadodara-390 002.
Other universities offering diplomas or certificate courses in different aspects of banking (law, management and administration, masters degree) are:
Gujarat University, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad-380 003.
Utkal University, PO Vani Vihar, Bhubaneshwar-751 004.
Annamalai University, PO Annamalai Nagar-608 002; Sri Venkateshwara University, Tirupati-517 502.
SNDT Women's University, 1, Nathibai Thackeray Road, Mumbai-400 020.
University of Rajasthan, Jaipur-302 004.
Shivaji University, Vidyanagar, Kolhapur-416 004.
Marathwada University, Aurangabad-431 604.
Bhartidasan University, Palkalai Perum, Tiruchirapalli-620 024.
Manipur University, Canchipur, Imphal-795 003.
The eligibility criteria is different for different courses and candidates are advised to check these out directly from the universities concerned.
http://careerprakashan.com/
Job Prospects
As banking is a growing industry, the job prospects are good. In nationalised banks, one can expect regular promotions while in private banks it is performance that is rewarded. Promotions may be swift for deserving candidates. But it is not necessary to be a banking professional only to get into banks. As financial services are getting automated, the industry requires a large number of computer experts, both in computer maintenance and software. Private computer service contractors are also in great demand. It would be important to have a BE or MCA degree for such jobs.
Bank jobs come with responsibility. As the banker handles other people's money, it is a job that requires trust. The person must also be service-oriented and like to look after customers. This is where private banks score over nationalised banks, but as profitability begins to play a major role in nationalised banks, there is bound to be pressure there as well to keep customers happy.
One reason to be excited about banking as a career is the rapid change taking place. Not only is there fresh competition, but technology promises to change the face of banking forever. The jobs are becoming comfortable, in the sense that the physical environment is pleasing and computerisation has taken the load off tedious jobs such as balancing accounts. As competition increases, a good banker will certainly be in great demand.
On the other hand, a career in banking entails frequent transfers. Also, it must be remembered that a banking job involves working long hours. When accounts are to be finalised, a bank employee has to put in long hours indeed.
Assess your aptitude before you join a career in banking.
All jobs require hard work. The personality required is a mix: for marketing and meeting customers an outgoing personality is required, while for keeping accounts a diligent and persevering attitude is required.
Careers in Banking
Careers in Banking
http://careerprakashan.com/
Banking has emerged as one of the most challenging sectors in the country. Openings are available at various levels, from Bank Clerical to Probationary Officers (PO). There is great job security and the salary is very good, besides the perquisites of loans for employees. It is a lucrative career: till recently careers existed only in nationalised banks, but with liberalisation, a host of private banks have been set up. As a result, demand for trained professionals has increased substantially. The private banks offer better salaries but then the job security is also less.
The advertisements for recruitment appear from time to time in newspapers as well as the Employment News. Recruitment is done on the basis of a written test, which consists of:
a) Test of Reasoning
b) Quantitative Aptitude
c) General Awareness
d) English Language
e) Descriptive Test
Except for the descriptive portion, all other sections contain objective-type questions. In Reasoning, there is verbal and non-verbal sections. In English, the test is aimed at judging the overall comprehension and understanding of the language. The Descriptive Paper can be answered in English or Hindi. It judges the written expression of the candidates. All sections must be qualified.
How to Prepare
Bank exams -- both clerical and PO -- are taken by lakhs of candidates. There is intense competition as the number of vacancies is small. A high degree of preparation is required in order to get through.
To be successful, regular practice in all the sections is essential. All the sections are adequately covered by The Competition Master.
It is advisable to do the basics first. After this, start doing section tests, from Reasoning, Maths, English, etc. Try to get a good score in each section. After that, do some full-length tests which contain all the sections, within the stipulated time. Candidates are also advised to prepare for the interview simultaneously and take care to develop their personality and confidence. After the written examination, the short-listed candidates are called for an interview. General questions are asked to check the candidate's General Awareness and relevant issues related to Economics.
For the Descriptive Paper, refer to sample questions published in The Competition Master. The candidate must have a good expression and the sentences must be grammatically correct. An important aspect is hand-writing. Many candidates write almost illegibly, which examiners cannot read. They are thus unable to get a good score. Efforts must be made to improve your handwriting as well, as this could be a major shortcoming in the written paper. Apart from this, it may be said that the candidate must be aware of current issues to be able to write something on them.
There are a number of books and correspondence courses available for bank preparatory examinations. There is, however, no substitute for self-study and self-preparation. Regular studies, systematic preparations, self-confidence and regular practice, is all that is required to pass this exam.
Different routes
While recruitment in nationalised banks is done through competitive exams, recruitment in private banks is mostly direct. The private sector banks recruit MBAs and Chartered Accountants directly. Lower down the line, fresh graduates can hope to find jobs as direct marketing executives, personal banking executives and home banking executives. For such jobs, all that is needed is a pleasing personality.
One can also do a specialised course in banking from a number of universities offering such courses.
Among these are:
University of Madras, Centenary Buildings, Chepauk, Chennai-600005, which offers a Certificate course in Banking.
The Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh-202 002, offers a 1-year course.
One can also do a Diploma in Bank Administration from Ravishankar University, Raipur-492 010.
Guru Ghasidas University, PO Koni, Bilaspur-495 009.
Maharishi Dayanand University, Rohtak-124 001.
Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Vadodara-390 002.
Other universities offering diplomas or certificate courses in different aspects of banking (law, management and administration, masters degree) are:
Gujarat University, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad-380 003.
Utkal University, PO Vani Vihar, Bhubaneshwar-751 004.
Annamalai University, PO Annamalai Nagar-608 002; Sri Venkateshwara University, Tirupati-517 502.
SNDT Women's University, 1, Nathibai Thackeray Road, Mumbai-400 020.
University of Rajasthan, Jaipur-302 004.
Shivaji University, Vidyanagar, Kolhapur-416 004.
Marathwada University, Aurangabad-431 604.
Bhartidasan University, Palkalai Perum, Tiruchirapalli-620 024.
Manipur University, Canchipur, Imphal-795 003.
The eligibility criteria is different for different courses and candidates are advised to check these out directly from the universities concerned.
http://careerprakashan.com/
Job Prospects
As banking is a growing industry, the job prospects are good. In nationalised banks, one can expect regular promotions while in private banks it is performance that is rewarded. Promotions may be swift for deserving candidates. But it is not necessary to be a banking professional only to get into banks. As financial services are getting automated, the industry requires a large number of computer experts, both in computer maintenance and software. Private computer service contractors are also in great demand. It would be important to have a BE or MCA degree for such jobs.
Bank jobs come with responsibility. As the banker handles other people's money, it is a job that requires trust. The person must also be service-oriented and like to look after customers. This is where private banks score over nationalised banks, but as profitability begins to play a major role in nationalised banks, there is bound to be pressure there as well to keep customers happy.
One reason to be excited about banking as a career is the rapid change taking place. Not only is there fresh competition, but technology promises to change the face of banking forever. The jobs are becoming comfortable, in the sense that the physical environment is pleasing and computerisation has taken the load off tedious jobs such as balancing accounts. As competition increases, a good banker will certainly be in great demand.
On the other hand, a career in banking entails frequent transfers. Also, it must be remembered that a banking job involves working long hours. When accounts are to be finalised, a bank employee has to put in long hours indeed.
Assess your aptitude before you join a career in banking.
All jobs require hard work. The personality required is a mix: for marketing and meeting customers an outgoing personality is required, while for keeping accounts a diligent and persevering attitude is required.
http://careerprakashan.com/
Banking has emerged as one of the most challenging sectors in the country. Openings are available at various levels, from Bank Clerical to Probationary Officers (PO). There is great job security and the salary is very good, besides the perquisites of loans for employees. It is a lucrative career: till recently careers existed only in nationalised banks, but with liberalisation, a host of private banks have been set up. As a result, demand for trained professionals has increased substantially. The private banks offer better salaries but then the job security is also less.
The advertisements for recruitment appear from time to time in newspapers as well as the Employment News. Recruitment is done on the basis of a written test, which consists of:
a) Test of Reasoning
b) Quantitative Aptitude
c) General Awareness
d) English Language
e) Descriptive Test
Except for the descriptive portion, all other sections contain objective-type questions. In Reasoning, there is verbal and non-verbal sections. In English, the test is aimed at judging the overall comprehension and understanding of the language. The Descriptive Paper can be answered in English or Hindi. It judges the written expression of the candidates. All sections must be qualified.
How to Prepare
Bank exams -- both clerical and PO -- are taken by lakhs of candidates. There is intense competition as the number of vacancies is small. A high degree of preparation is required in order to get through.
To be successful, regular practice in all the sections is essential. All the sections are adequately covered by The Competition Master.
It is advisable to do the basics first. After this, start doing section tests, from Reasoning, Maths, English, etc. Try to get a good score in each section. After that, do some full-length tests which contain all the sections, within the stipulated time. Candidates are also advised to prepare for the interview simultaneously and take care to develop their personality and confidence. After the written examination, the short-listed candidates are called for an interview. General questions are asked to check the candidate's General Awareness and relevant issues related to Economics.
For the Descriptive Paper, refer to sample questions published in The Competition Master. The candidate must have a good expression and the sentences must be grammatically correct. An important aspect is hand-writing. Many candidates write almost illegibly, which examiners cannot read. They are thus unable to get a good score. Efforts must be made to improve your handwriting as well, as this could be a major shortcoming in the written paper. Apart from this, it may be said that the candidate must be aware of current issues to be able to write something on them.
There are a number of books and correspondence courses available for bank preparatory examinations. There is, however, no substitute for self-study and self-preparation. Regular studies, systematic preparations, self-confidence and regular practice, is all that is required to pass this exam.
Different routes
While recruitment in nationalised banks is done through competitive exams, recruitment in private banks is mostly direct. The private sector banks recruit MBAs and Chartered Accountants directly. Lower down the line, fresh graduates can hope to find jobs as direct marketing executives, personal banking executives and home banking executives. For such jobs, all that is needed is a pleasing personality.
One can also do a specialised course in banking from a number of universities offering such courses.
Among these are:
University of Madras, Centenary Buildings, Chepauk, Chennai-600005, which offers a Certificate course in Banking.
The Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh-202 002, offers a 1-year course.
One can also do a Diploma in Bank Administration from Ravishankar University, Raipur-492 010.
Guru Ghasidas University, PO Koni, Bilaspur-495 009.
Maharishi Dayanand University, Rohtak-124 001.
Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Vadodara-390 002.
Other universities offering diplomas or certificate courses in different aspects of banking (law, management and administration, masters degree) are:
Gujarat University, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad-380 003.
Utkal University, PO Vani Vihar, Bhubaneshwar-751 004.
Annamalai University, PO Annamalai Nagar-608 002; Sri Venkateshwara University, Tirupati-517 502.
SNDT Women's University, 1, Nathibai Thackeray Road, Mumbai-400 020.
University of Rajasthan, Jaipur-302 004.
Shivaji University, Vidyanagar, Kolhapur-416 004.
Marathwada University, Aurangabad-431 604.
Bhartidasan University, Palkalai Perum, Tiruchirapalli-620 024.
Manipur University, Canchipur, Imphal-795 003.
The eligibility criteria is different for different courses and candidates are advised to check these out directly from the universities concerned.
http://careerprakashan.com/
Job Prospects
As banking is a growing industry, the job prospects are good. In nationalised banks, one can expect regular promotions while in private banks it is performance that is rewarded. Promotions may be swift for deserving candidates. But it is not necessary to be a banking professional only to get into banks. As financial services are getting automated, the industry requires a large number of computer experts, both in computer maintenance and software. Private computer service contractors are also in great demand. It would be important to have a BE or MCA degree for such jobs.
Bank jobs come with responsibility. As the banker handles other people's money, it is a job that requires trust. The person must also be service-oriented and like to look after customers. This is where private banks score over nationalised banks, but as profitability begins to play a major role in nationalised banks, there is bound to be pressure there as well to keep customers happy.
One reason to be excited about banking as a career is the rapid change taking place. Not only is there fresh competition, but technology promises to change the face of banking forever. The jobs are becoming comfortable, in the sense that the physical environment is pleasing and computerisation has taken the load off tedious jobs such as balancing accounts. As competition increases, a good banker will certainly be in great demand.
On the other hand, a career in banking entails frequent transfers. Also, it must be remembered that a banking job involves working long hours. When accounts are to be finalised, a bank employee has to put in long hours indeed.
Assess your aptitude before you join a career in banking.
All jobs require hard work. The personality required is a mix: for marketing and meeting customers an outgoing personality is required, while for keeping accounts a diligent and persevering attitude is required.
Updated strategy for General Studies for new Syllabus
Updated strategy for General Studies for new Syllabus
http://careerprakashan.com/
In the latest notification by the UPSC for the ICS 2008, Changes have made in the syllabi of Mains GS
Three main alterations which have been made are:
(a) GS has become more current events oriented.
(b) GS has also been related with comparable international events.
(c) All the topics have become more analytical.
(d) The optional subjects have also become more current-oriented, and analitical.
(e) At many places, the language of the content of the syllabus has been changed. The final outcome of this is that all those topics on which questions were aasked earlier also, and which were assumed to be part of syallabus as implied topics, have been clearily mentioned.
Some tips
(a) In section 1 of Paper II, earlier the topic was: Nuclear Policy, issues, and conflicts. This clearly makes the topics current events oriented, as questions might be asked on the latest or the rationale and ways to deal with any nuclear conflicts in future.
(b) The heading of section 2 of Paper II has clearly changed to : 'India's Economic Interaction with the World'. Here, Clearly the latest economic changes in policy and the changed economic relations, Positions, Scenario and the perspective have been highlighted.
(c) The section 2 of Paper II mentions - the role and functions if I,M,F., World Bank, W.T.O., WIPO etc. Which influence India's economic interaction with other countries and international institutions. It requires an analytical mindset and matter personally prepared which will not be found in the conventional books easily.
(d) A major portion of Section 3 and 4 of Paper I has been changed in language. Though mostly the meaning remains the same, the topics have been clearly mentioned in the new syllabus. Questions have been asked earlier on thesse newly addes topics. Thus, the changes by the UPSC in the syllabus, more or less, point toward a change in strategy, change in the nature of questions asked, and the change in tools of preparation.
Strategy for Prelims
Looking at the pattern in which questions have been framed in General Studies (GS) from 1985 onwards, one is tempted to say that possibly the principle design of the examiners is to eliminate candidates rather than test their mental calibre. Moreover, examiners have not correctly followed in all the years the pattern of allotting specific number of marks for specified for each syllabus expect for the area on Mental Ability.
Such being the current trend of setting the GS paper in the Preliminary Exam, candidates have no option but to bank upon chosen optional subjects while making reasonable amount of preparation for all areas of GS. Besides, it is wise to prepare these areas from the view-point of the Main Examination. The areas to be taken care of are Modern India, Polity, Indian Economy, Geography, Current Events and General Science.
Considering the general nature of the examination the tactics must be to focus on greater rather than intensive coverage. One is expected to know history, science, polity, geography, economy and other such disciplines, all at the same time. However, only basics of each of the disciplines is needed. Hence one must concentrate on basics and acquire as much facts about basics as possible but avoiding the element of over-kill in preparations.
While preparation for the Prelims large coverage is the key word. By going through large source of information it is expected that an image is built in the mind which will reflect the details. Do remember that human memory skills work better when there are less emotional in-puts or anxiety about inability to recall on account of exam-related stress.
Here is a brief dos and don'ts:
• Final preparation must start by testing self with the revision-type Model Test Papers.
• Do not get discouraged by initial low score.
• Emphasis on your weak-spots.
• Keep testing yourself at a regular interval.
• Make a mental note of areas you have covered and what remains to be covered.
• Be analytical in response.
• Do not overstretch yourself area of coverage-wise.
• Revise your stuff a number of times.
• A calm mental state is most important.
• Since there is negative marking in the exam now, it is suggested to leave any questions that you are not sure of, unanswered.
• Do not get stuck at any question. Move on from question to question and attempt the difficult ones at the end.
• Attempt only the answers which you are sure of.
http://careerprakashan.com/
Strategy for Mains
Paper I
History of Modern India and Indian Culture: The subject is like a story and there could be linkages between two questions. Students thus need to ensure that the entire syllabus is covered in detail while revising history.They can, however, do without preparing portions which appeared last year in the main stage of the examination. The general trend is that there are no repetitions from last year's papers, but once in a while students could be in for a surprise. The part relating to Indian culture will cover all aspects from ancient to modern times.
Geography of India: Students should concentrate on human and economic geography. Human section includes issues related to population. There will be questions based on the Human Development Report prepared by United Nations Development Programme. The World Development Report of World Bank deals in different aspects of economic geography like safe drinking water. Students should emphasise less on classical geography like types of soil and rocks. The stress should be on preparing cultural and economic geography and issues related to it.
Indian Polity: Different aspects of the Constitution like Supreme Court judgment during the past one year are important. At macro level, students need to know in detail issues like imposition of President's Rule in Bihar, why it was imposed and under what circumstances, significance of Bommai Judgment while implementing the same are important.
Current National issues and topics of social relevance: Students should go through major happenings at the national level during the last one calendar year. National newspapers, news magazines, journals and periodicals are good source of information to prepare topics related to national issues. Issues of social relevance which affect the lives of people should always be dealt in detail.
Paper-II
India and the World: Indian's relations with major world powers like US, China, Russia, France, UK and European Union should be covered in detail. The recent positive developments in Indo-US relations particularly in areas like civilian nuclear energy deal, space cooperation and education will be important in this year's examination.
Immediate neighbours like Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Myanmar too play an important role in India's foreign policy. Disputes with Pakistan and China on the one hand and Bangladesh and Nepal on the other have come to play an important role in India's tryst to create a space in world politics. There should be focus on India's role in her neighbour's internal politics like maoist insurgency and return of democracy in Nepal. Issues related to illegal immigrants from Bangladesh too are important in this year's paper.
Indian Economy: The change of guard at the Centre has brought an ideological shift in how we manage our economy and issues related to taxation and spending pattern. There is more emphasis on the social sector, winding up of Ministry of Disinvestment, issues related to privatisation or profit earning and loss-making PSU entities. Queries related to disinvestment of government entities in a transparent manner too have come to play an important role during the past one year.
The role of government in our public life like running utility services too has become a matter of debate during the last few years. Areas like atomic energy, manufacturing of military goods should continue to remain in the public sector but the government should not own enterprises. The role of the government should be limited to budgetary support and providing direction on different policy matters like social work.
International Affairs and Institutions: Reforms in United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and formation of G-4 to bid for permanent seats in the Security Council and US' role during the entire process will be important this year.
Developments in the fields of S&T,communications and space: Scientific development during the last one year, focus on development of AIDS vaccine, stem cell research, focus on non-renewable sources of energy and manned space are must during the revision. Geological disasters like earthquakes are still not being predicted inspite of technological advancements. Is it then justified to spend heavily on space research?
Statistical analysis, graphs and diagrammes: This section tests the candidates' ability to draw conclusions from information presented in statistical, graphical or diagrammatical form and to point out deficiencies therein.
Writing the paper: Students should be focussed in terms of language, and they should ensure that the answers are as close as possible. The examiner is usually in a hurry and if provided with facts and coherent replies,his job becomes easier. The answers should not be lengthy and written in a precise manner. Word limit should be adhered to, wherever mentioned. Students should focus on providing their side of justification in a jiffy. Repetitive and elaborate replies should be strictly avoided.
Strategy for Mains - India and the world
Paper two of General Studies in the Main Examination starts with the segment - India and the world. It accounts for around 50 marks out of 300 in this paper. Earlier this was part of a wider segment called issues of national and international importance. But in recent years, realising the significance of India's foreign policy, it has been segmented as a separate area and with focus on India's interaction with rest of the world.
Pandit Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India is regarded as the architect of our foreign policy. He used foreign policy as an instrument to defend and strengthen India's newly-won independence, territorial integrity and sovereignty. His principles of 'Panchsheel' and non-alignment remained the guiding principles for successive prime ministers. During the time of Indira Gandhi, a growing assertiveness was quite evident in the Indian Foreign Policy, be it victory in the Bangladesh war of 1971 or merger of Sikkim in 1975 inspite of the Chinese protest. Her son Rajiv Gandhi believed in 'travel diplomacy'. As he had no ideological baggage to carry when he entered politics, he could interact with both superpowers - USA and USSR, with equal ease during the Cold war.
The end of Cold War heralded a new era for India too. With the beginning of economic reform, India started giving emphasis to 'economic diplomacy'. Consequently, India's relationship with major economies of the world like USA, E U, ASEAN improved considerably.
India and Pakistan continue to have a relationship that can be summed up as that of 'blow hot - blow cold'. Kashmir remains the most contentious issue, but the two countries finally seem to agree on a 'composite dialogue' within the sphere of bilateral ties. India's relationship with other smaller neighbouring countries of South Asia improved considerably in the mid 1990s largely because of the 'Gujral Doctrine'. This doctrine, which became as famous as its propounder enjoined upon India to give unilateral concessions to the smaller neighbouring countries like Nepal, Bhutan, Maldives, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh without expecting any gains in reciprocity. A significant change seen in the recent times is the thrust given to normalising the relationship with China. Though we have outstanding border disputes but they have been kept on the backburner for the time being. At the same time, there has been more emphasis on enhancing the bilateral economic ties.
Our relationship with the USA is the hallmark of Indian foreign policy after the Cold War. The two countries have found 'natural allies' in each other mainly because of their common economic interests, common threats from international terrorism and common views on international security. On the other hand, India continues to have cordial ties with her time-tested friend Russia. It remains our biggest defence partner followed by Israel. Post-Cold War period has witnessed a change in India's foreign policy on West Asia. In 1993, India established diplomatic ties with the state of Israel keeping in view our security concerns. At the same time, India has not abandoned the cause of Palestinian Arabs. Finally, India's nuclear policy is an integrated part of our foreign policy. For India, its nuclear weapons are more as a deterrent or an insurance against extreme threats than weapons usable during war.
The General Studies (Main) Paper II includes international organisations too. The United Nations is the world's largest and most-vital organisation. It is formed of six main organs, which are the General Assembly, Security Council, Economic and Social Council (ELDSOC); Trusteeship Council, International Court of Justice (ICJ) and Secretariat, alongwith specialised agencies like WHO, UNICEF, UNESCO, UNHRC and others. Then, there are various other international organisations like G-8 or a group of world's most industrialised nations, G-77 or a group of world's developing countries and G-15 or a more compact version of G-77. There are organisations too which focus on certain other subjects like OPEC, OIC, NATO, NAM, among others. One must know the outcome of their latest summits or meets, among others. SAARC is an exclusive organisation of seven South Asia Countries. One can see that it has become a victim of political rivalry between India and Pakistan, its two biggest members. Still efforts are being made to save it and the latest 'Islamabad Summit' has ignited that process. The European Union is perhaps the world's most successful regional bloc alongwith ASEAN and NAFTA. Finally, one can expect questions on leading international non-governmental agencies like Amnesty International, Red Cross, World Wide Fund for Nature and Greenpeace. Needless to say, India's involvement in these organisations should be emphasised while preparing this segment for General Studies Paper II of Main Exam.
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http://careerprakashan.com/
In the latest notification by the UPSC for the ICS 2008, Changes have made in the syllabi of Mains GS
Three main alterations which have been made are:
(a) GS has become more current events oriented.
(b) GS has also been related with comparable international events.
(c) All the topics have become more analytical.
(d) The optional subjects have also become more current-oriented, and analitical.
(e) At many places, the language of the content of the syllabus has been changed. The final outcome of this is that all those topics on which questions were aasked earlier also, and which were assumed to be part of syallabus as implied topics, have been clearily mentioned.
Some tips
(a) In section 1 of Paper II, earlier the topic was: Nuclear Policy, issues, and conflicts. This clearly makes the topics current events oriented, as questions might be asked on the latest or the rationale and ways to deal with any nuclear conflicts in future.
(b) The heading of section 2 of Paper II has clearly changed to : 'India's Economic Interaction with the World'. Here, Clearly the latest economic changes in policy and the changed economic relations, Positions, Scenario and the perspective have been highlighted.
(c) The section 2 of Paper II mentions - the role and functions if I,M,F., World Bank, W.T.O., WIPO etc. Which influence India's economic interaction with other countries and international institutions. It requires an analytical mindset and matter personally prepared which will not be found in the conventional books easily.
(d) A major portion of Section 3 and 4 of Paper I has been changed in language. Though mostly the meaning remains the same, the topics have been clearly mentioned in the new syllabus. Questions have been asked earlier on thesse newly addes topics. Thus, the changes by the UPSC in the syllabus, more or less, point toward a change in strategy, change in the nature of questions asked, and the change in tools of preparation.
Strategy for Prelims
Looking at the pattern in which questions have been framed in General Studies (GS) from 1985 onwards, one is tempted to say that possibly the principle design of the examiners is to eliminate candidates rather than test their mental calibre. Moreover, examiners have not correctly followed in all the years the pattern of allotting specific number of marks for specified for each syllabus expect for the area on Mental Ability.
Such being the current trend of setting the GS paper in the Preliminary Exam, candidates have no option but to bank upon chosen optional subjects while making reasonable amount of preparation for all areas of GS. Besides, it is wise to prepare these areas from the view-point of the Main Examination. The areas to be taken care of are Modern India, Polity, Indian Economy, Geography, Current Events and General Science.
Considering the general nature of the examination the tactics must be to focus on greater rather than intensive coverage. One is expected to know history, science, polity, geography, economy and other such disciplines, all at the same time. However, only basics of each of the disciplines is needed. Hence one must concentrate on basics and acquire as much facts about basics as possible but avoiding the element of over-kill in preparations.
While preparation for the Prelims large coverage is the key word. By going through large source of information it is expected that an image is built in the mind which will reflect the details. Do remember that human memory skills work better when there are less emotional in-puts or anxiety about inability to recall on account of exam-related stress.
Here is a brief dos and don'ts:
• Final preparation must start by testing self with the revision-type Model Test Papers.
• Do not get discouraged by initial low score.
• Emphasis on your weak-spots.
• Keep testing yourself at a regular interval.
• Make a mental note of areas you have covered and what remains to be covered.
• Be analytical in response.
• Do not overstretch yourself area of coverage-wise.
• Revise your stuff a number of times.
• A calm mental state is most important.
• Since there is negative marking in the exam now, it is suggested to leave any questions that you are not sure of, unanswered.
• Do not get stuck at any question. Move on from question to question and attempt the difficult ones at the end.
• Attempt only the answers which you are sure of.
http://careerprakashan.com/
Strategy for Mains
Paper I
History of Modern India and Indian Culture: The subject is like a story and there could be linkages between two questions. Students thus need to ensure that the entire syllabus is covered in detail while revising history.They can, however, do without preparing portions which appeared last year in the main stage of the examination. The general trend is that there are no repetitions from last year's papers, but once in a while students could be in for a surprise. The part relating to Indian culture will cover all aspects from ancient to modern times.
Geography of India: Students should concentrate on human and economic geography. Human section includes issues related to population. There will be questions based on the Human Development Report prepared by United Nations Development Programme. The World Development Report of World Bank deals in different aspects of economic geography like safe drinking water. Students should emphasise less on classical geography like types of soil and rocks. The stress should be on preparing cultural and economic geography and issues related to it.
Indian Polity: Different aspects of the Constitution like Supreme Court judgment during the past one year are important. At macro level, students need to know in detail issues like imposition of President's Rule in Bihar, why it was imposed and under what circumstances, significance of Bommai Judgment while implementing the same are important.
Current National issues and topics of social relevance: Students should go through major happenings at the national level during the last one calendar year. National newspapers, news magazines, journals and periodicals are good source of information to prepare topics related to national issues. Issues of social relevance which affect the lives of people should always be dealt in detail.
Paper-II
India and the World: Indian's relations with major world powers like US, China, Russia, France, UK and European Union should be covered in detail. The recent positive developments in Indo-US relations particularly in areas like civilian nuclear energy deal, space cooperation and education will be important in this year's examination.
Immediate neighbours like Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Myanmar too play an important role in India's foreign policy. Disputes with Pakistan and China on the one hand and Bangladesh and Nepal on the other have come to play an important role in India's tryst to create a space in world politics. There should be focus on India's role in her neighbour's internal politics like maoist insurgency and return of democracy in Nepal. Issues related to illegal immigrants from Bangladesh too are important in this year's paper.
Indian Economy: The change of guard at the Centre has brought an ideological shift in how we manage our economy and issues related to taxation and spending pattern. There is more emphasis on the social sector, winding up of Ministry of Disinvestment, issues related to privatisation or profit earning and loss-making PSU entities. Queries related to disinvestment of government entities in a transparent manner too have come to play an important role during the past one year.
The role of government in our public life like running utility services too has become a matter of debate during the last few years. Areas like atomic energy, manufacturing of military goods should continue to remain in the public sector but the government should not own enterprises. The role of the government should be limited to budgetary support and providing direction on different policy matters like social work.
International Affairs and Institutions: Reforms in United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and formation of G-4 to bid for permanent seats in the Security Council and US' role during the entire process will be important this year.
Developments in the fields of S&T,communications and space: Scientific development during the last one year, focus on development of AIDS vaccine, stem cell research, focus on non-renewable sources of energy and manned space are must during the revision. Geological disasters like earthquakes are still not being predicted inspite of technological advancements. Is it then justified to spend heavily on space research?
Statistical analysis, graphs and diagrammes: This section tests the candidates' ability to draw conclusions from information presented in statistical, graphical or diagrammatical form and to point out deficiencies therein.
Writing the paper: Students should be focussed in terms of language, and they should ensure that the answers are as close as possible. The examiner is usually in a hurry and if provided with facts and coherent replies,his job becomes easier. The answers should not be lengthy and written in a precise manner. Word limit should be adhered to, wherever mentioned. Students should focus on providing their side of justification in a jiffy. Repetitive and elaborate replies should be strictly avoided.
Strategy for Mains - India and the world
Paper two of General Studies in the Main Examination starts with the segment - India and the world. It accounts for around 50 marks out of 300 in this paper. Earlier this was part of a wider segment called issues of national and international importance. But in recent years, realising the significance of India's foreign policy, it has been segmented as a separate area and with focus on India's interaction with rest of the world.
Pandit Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India is regarded as the architect of our foreign policy. He used foreign policy as an instrument to defend and strengthen India's newly-won independence, territorial integrity and sovereignty. His principles of 'Panchsheel' and non-alignment remained the guiding principles for successive prime ministers. During the time of Indira Gandhi, a growing assertiveness was quite evident in the Indian Foreign Policy, be it victory in the Bangladesh war of 1971 or merger of Sikkim in 1975 inspite of the Chinese protest. Her son Rajiv Gandhi believed in 'travel diplomacy'. As he had no ideological baggage to carry when he entered politics, he could interact with both superpowers - USA and USSR, with equal ease during the Cold war.
The end of Cold War heralded a new era for India too. With the beginning of economic reform, India started giving emphasis to 'economic diplomacy'. Consequently, India's relationship with major economies of the world like USA, E U, ASEAN improved considerably.
India and Pakistan continue to have a relationship that can be summed up as that of 'blow hot - blow cold'. Kashmir remains the most contentious issue, but the two countries finally seem to agree on a 'composite dialogue' within the sphere of bilateral ties. India's relationship with other smaller neighbouring countries of South Asia improved considerably in the mid 1990s largely because of the 'Gujral Doctrine'. This doctrine, which became as famous as its propounder enjoined upon India to give unilateral concessions to the smaller neighbouring countries like Nepal, Bhutan, Maldives, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh without expecting any gains in reciprocity. A significant change seen in the recent times is the thrust given to normalising the relationship with China. Though we have outstanding border disputes but they have been kept on the backburner for the time being. At the same time, there has been more emphasis on enhancing the bilateral economic ties.
Our relationship with the USA is the hallmark of Indian foreign policy after the Cold War. The two countries have found 'natural allies' in each other mainly because of their common economic interests, common threats from international terrorism and common views on international security. On the other hand, India continues to have cordial ties with her time-tested friend Russia. It remains our biggest defence partner followed by Israel. Post-Cold War period has witnessed a change in India's foreign policy on West Asia. In 1993, India established diplomatic ties with the state of Israel keeping in view our security concerns. At the same time, India has not abandoned the cause of Palestinian Arabs. Finally, India's nuclear policy is an integrated part of our foreign policy. For India, its nuclear weapons are more as a deterrent or an insurance against extreme threats than weapons usable during war.
The General Studies (Main) Paper II includes international organisations too. The United Nations is the world's largest and most-vital organisation. It is formed of six main organs, which are the General Assembly, Security Council, Economic and Social Council (ELDSOC); Trusteeship Council, International Court of Justice (ICJ) and Secretariat, alongwith specialised agencies like WHO, UNICEF, UNESCO, UNHRC and others. Then, there are various other international organisations like G-8 or a group of world's most industrialised nations, G-77 or a group of world's developing countries and G-15 or a more compact version of G-77. There are organisations too which focus on certain other subjects like OPEC, OIC, NATO, NAM, among others. One must know the outcome of their latest summits or meets, among others. SAARC is an exclusive organisation of seven South Asia Countries. One can see that it has become a victim of political rivalry between India and Pakistan, its two biggest members. Still efforts are being made to save it and the latest 'Islamabad Summit' has ignited that process. The European Union is perhaps the world's most successful regional bloc alongwith ASEAN and NAFTA. Finally, one can expect questions on leading international non-governmental agencies like Amnesty International, Red Cross, World Wide Fund for Nature and Greenpeace. Needless to say, India's involvement in these organisations should be emphasised while preparing this segment for General Studies Paper II of Main Exam.
Web
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About Civil Service
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Civil Service News
Current Affairs
New Online Poll
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Essay Contest**
Tips for Interview**
Earn With Us
About Civil Services
Exam Schedule 2011-2012
Subject Resources
Mains Syllabus
Preliminary Syllabus
Question Papers
Strategy
Suggested Reading
Free Special Classes
IAS Link Resources
Study Together
Book Center
Free NCERT Books
Free History Notes**
Free Law Notes**
Civil Service FAQ
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Other Competitive Exams**
Disclaimer
About Us
http://careerprakashan.com/
Updated General Studies Mains syllabus for 2008
Updated General Studies Mains syllabus for 2008
http://careerprakashan.com/
General Guidelines:The nature and standard of questions in the General Studies papers will be such that a well-educated person will be able to answer them without any specialized study. The questions will be such as to test a candidate’s general awareness of a variety of subjects, which will have relevance for a career in Civil Services. The questions are likely to test the candidate’s basic understanding of all relevant issues, and ability to analyze, and take a view on conflicting socio-economic goals, objectives and demands. The candidates must give relevant, meaningful and succinct answers.
Paper-I
(1) History of Modern India and Indian Culture
The History of Modern India will cover history of the Country from about the middle of nineteenth century and would also include questions on important personalities who shaped the freedom movement and social reforms. The part relating to Indian culture will cover all aspects of Indian culture from the ancient to modern times as well as principal features of literature, arts and architecture.
(2) Geogrphy of India
In this part, questions will be on the physical, economic and social geography of India.
(3) Constitution of India and Indian Polity
This part will include questions on the Constitution of India as well as all constitutional, legal, administrative and other issues emerging from the politico-administrative system prevalent in the country.
(4) Current National issues and topics of social relevance
This part is intended to test the candidate's awareness of current national issues and topics of social relevance in present-day India, such as the following:
(i) The Indian economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment.
(ii) Issues arising from the social and economic exclusion of large sections from the benefits of development.
(iii) Other issues relating to the development and management of human resource.
(iv) Health issues including the management of Public Health, Health education and ethical concerns regarding health-care, medical research and pharmaceuticals.
(v) Law enforcement, internal security and related issues such as the preservation of communal harmony.
(vi) Issues relating to good governance and accountability to the citizens including the maintenance of human rights, and of probity in public life.
(vii) Environmental issues, ecological preservation, conservation of natural resources and national heritage.
Paper-II
(1) India and the World
This part will include questions to test candidate's awareness of India's relationship with the world in various spheres such as the following:-
• Foreign Affairs with special emphasis on India’s relations with neighbouring countries and in the region.
• Security and defence related matters.
• Nuclear policy, issues, and conflicts.
• The Indian Diaspora and its contribution to India and the world.
(2) India’s Economic Interaction with the World
In this part, questions will be on economic and trade issues such as foreign trade, foreign investment; economic and diplomacy issues relating to oil, gas and energy flows; the role and functions of I.M.F., World Bank, W.T.O., WIPO etc. which influence India’s economic interaction with other countries and international institutions.
(3) Developments in the Field of Science & Technology, IT and space
In this part, questions will test the candidate's awareness of the developments in the field of science and technology, information technology, space and basic ideas about computers, robotics, nanotechnology, biotechnology and related issues regarding intellectual property rights.
(4) International Affairs and Institutions
This part will include questions on important events in world affairs and on international institutions.
(5) Statistical analysis, graphs and diagrams
This part will test the candidate's ability to draw conclusions from information presented in statistical, graphical or diagrammatical form and to interpret them.
http://careerprakashan.com/
General Guidelines:The nature and standard of questions in the General Studies papers will be such that a well-educated person will be able to answer them without any specialized study. The questions will be such as to test a candidate’s general awareness of a variety of subjects, which will have relevance for a career in Civil Services. The questions are likely to test the candidate’s basic understanding of all relevant issues, and ability to analyze, and take a view on conflicting socio-economic goals, objectives and demands. The candidates must give relevant, meaningful and succinct answers.
Paper-I
(1) History of Modern India and Indian Culture
The History of Modern India will cover history of the Country from about the middle of nineteenth century and would also include questions on important personalities who shaped the freedom movement and social reforms. The part relating to Indian culture will cover all aspects of Indian culture from the ancient to modern times as well as principal features of literature, arts and architecture.
(2) Geogrphy of India
In this part, questions will be on the physical, economic and social geography of India.
(3) Constitution of India and Indian Polity
This part will include questions on the Constitution of India as well as all constitutional, legal, administrative and other issues emerging from the politico-administrative system prevalent in the country.
(4) Current National issues and topics of social relevance
This part is intended to test the candidate's awareness of current national issues and topics of social relevance in present-day India, such as the following:
(i) The Indian economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment.
(ii) Issues arising from the social and economic exclusion of large sections from the benefits of development.
(iii) Other issues relating to the development and management of human resource.
(iv) Health issues including the management of Public Health, Health education and ethical concerns regarding health-care, medical research and pharmaceuticals.
(v) Law enforcement, internal security and related issues such as the preservation of communal harmony.
(vi) Issues relating to good governance and accountability to the citizens including the maintenance of human rights, and of probity in public life.
(vii) Environmental issues, ecological preservation, conservation of natural resources and national heritage.
Paper-II
(1) India and the World
This part will include questions to test candidate's awareness of India's relationship with the world in various spheres such as the following:-
• Foreign Affairs with special emphasis on India’s relations with neighbouring countries and in the region.
• Security and defence related matters.
• Nuclear policy, issues, and conflicts.
• The Indian Diaspora and its contribution to India and the world.
(2) India’s Economic Interaction with the World
In this part, questions will be on economic and trade issues such as foreign trade, foreign investment; economic and diplomacy issues relating to oil, gas and energy flows; the role and functions of I.M.F., World Bank, W.T.O., WIPO etc. which influence India’s economic interaction with other countries and international institutions.
(3) Developments in the Field of Science & Technology, IT and space
In this part, questions will test the candidate's awareness of the developments in the field of science and technology, information technology, space and basic ideas about computers, robotics, nanotechnology, biotechnology and related issues regarding intellectual property rights.
(4) International Affairs and Institutions
This part will include questions on important events in world affairs and on international institutions.
(5) Statistical analysis, graphs and diagrams
This part will test the candidate's ability to draw conclusions from information presented in statistical, graphical or diagrammatical form and to interpret them.
Railway Recruitment Board Exam (RRB) Entrance Exam
Railway Recruitment Board Exam (RRB) Entrance Exam
http://www.careerprakashan.com/Books on Competitive Examinations and many more. Buy online at ...
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RRB Examination is conducted for to recruit and make available the right kind of manpower at the right time to the different units of the Railways as per their necessities. This is an All India Entrance Exam. Railway Recruitment Board has been appointed and authorized to ensure the exam is conducted smoothly. Selection on various posts based on the Written Test and Interview.
Structure and Pattern of RRB Entrance Exam
The question paper will covers four vital sections namely General Arithmetic, Analytical and Quantitative Skills, General Awareness and as Language General Hindi/General English. There will be a total of 100 to 120 objective type questions. Candidates have to finish the exam in duration of about 90 minutes or one and a half hours. Negative marking system is applicable for every wrong answer. The Questions are of many types and are available in various languages such as Urdu, Hindi, and English and in other Local Languages.
Qualification Criteria for RRB Entrance Exam
Minimum age limit for appear the exam is 18 years and 30 years is the maximum age limit for the exam. Reserved category candidates will get the relaxation in age as stated by government rules. Educational Qualification for the exam is any Bachelors degree from any recognized university. The minimum academic qualification set for each post varies.
Application Procedure for RRB Entrance Exam
Those candidates wish to appear this exam can apply through online at RRBs official website. There is no application charge for reserved categories and Ex-Servicemen and bodily challenged candidates. For general categories, application cost is Rs.40/- i.e. for the post having pay scale up to 3050 – 4590. Application cost is Rs 60 for all the post having salary higher than 3050 - 4590.
http://www.careerprakashan.com/Books on Competitive Examinations and many more. Buy online at ...
www.careerprakashan.com
RRB Examination is conducted for to recruit and make available the right kind of manpower at the right time to the different units of the Railways as per their necessities. This is an All India Entrance Exam. Railway Recruitment Board has been appointed and authorized to ensure the exam is conducted smoothly. Selection on various posts based on the Written Test and Interview.
Structure and Pattern of RRB Entrance Exam
The question paper will covers four vital sections namely General Arithmetic, Analytical and Quantitative Skills, General Awareness and as Language General Hindi/General English. There will be a total of 100 to 120 objective type questions. Candidates have to finish the exam in duration of about 90 minutes or one and a half hours. Negative marking system is applicable for every wrong answer. The Questions are of many types and are available in various languages such as Urdu, Hindi, and English and in other Local Languages.
Qualification Criteria for RRB Entrance Exam
Minimum age limit for appear the exam is 18 years and 30 years is the maximum age limit for the exam. Reserved category candidates will get the relaxation in age as stated by government rules. Educational Qualification for the exam is any Bachelors degree from any recognized university. The minimum academic qualification set for each post varies.
Application Procedure for RRB Entrance Exam
Those candidates wish to appear this exam can apply through online at RRBs official website. There is no application charge for reserved categories and Ex-Servicemen and bodily challenged candidates. For general categories, application cost is Rs.40/- i.e. for the post having pay scale up to 3050 – 4590. Application cost is Rs 60 for all the post having salary higher than 3050 - 4590.
Monday 27 February 2012
NATIONAL AFFAIRS
NATIONAL AFFAIRS
http://www.careerprakashan.com/
State of Education Report
According to the Annual Status of Education Report (ASER), 2011, the grim tale of India’s school education has got grimmer, with new evidence surfacing to show that families across rural India have been ignoring the guaranteed Right to Education to seek private paid education.
Though a whopping 96.8 per cent children aged 6 to 14 years (the age group the RTE Act covers) are now enrolled in school, children’s attendance is declining and so is their ability to read simple text and do simple mathematical calculations.
Almost half (48.1 per cent) of India’s rural primary school students are either attending private schools or seeking paid tuition. Across the nation, private school enrolment for children aged 6 to 14 years rose from 18.7 per cent in 2006 to 25.6 per cent in 2011.
The survey, which covered 6.5 lakh children in 16,000 villages of 558 districts, found that one in every four rural children was attending private schools. In Kerala and Manipur, over 60 per cent children go to private schools. The percentage of students going to private schools is 71.1 for Manipur; 39.6 for Punjab, 43.4 for Haryana, 37.7 for Jammu and Kashmir and 29.6 for Himachal.
In UP, 45 per cent students were found to be going to private schools in 2011, as against 22 per cent in 2005. In Tamil Nadu, 35 per cent are attending private schools as against 16 per cent in 2005. And the percentage of students seeking paid tuitions is rising. The figure was 22.5 in 2010 and is 23.3 per cent today.
The ASER report further found levels of reading abilities to have declined in several States. Except in Punjab, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu, reading abilities declined pan India, where the percentage of fifth graders able to read Class II text dropped across the nation from 53.7 per cent in 2010 to 48.2 per cent in 2011. Except in Himachal, Standard III children showed decline in ability to read Class I text across India.
In arithmetic, the situation is worse. As for the nation, the percentage of Class III graders who can do two-digit subtractions with borrowing dropped from 36.3 per cent in 2010 to 29.9 per cent in 2011. The decline was seen everywhere except in Andhra, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, where the situation improved. The percentage of Class V children who can solve subtraction problems declined from 70.9 in 2010 to 61 this year.
SC sets deadline for government nod for prosecution of civil servant
In a landmark verdict, Supreme Court, on January 31, 2012, upheld the right of a private citizen to seek sanction for prosecution of a public servant for corruption, while setting a deadline of four months for the government to decide the issue of giving sanction for prosecution of public servants facing corruption charges.
A bench of Justices G.S. Singhvi and and A.K. Ganguly said, “There is no provision either in the 1988 Act (Prevention of Corruption Act) or the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 (CrPC) which bars a citizen from filing a complaint for prosecution of a public servant who is alleged to have committed an offence.”
The two judges also turned down the argument that the issue of sanction for prosecution of a public servant arises only at the stage of taking cognizance of the case by the court.
While prescribing a four month time-limit for deciding whether to grant sanction for prosecution of a public servant, Justices Singhvi and Ganguly, who wrote separate judgments, said sanction would be deemed to have been granted if the competent authority failed to take a decision within the period.
The order coincided with a growing feeling that sanction for prosecution of public servants facing corruption charges are deliberately delayed to kill the probe.
http://careerprakashan.com/
http://www.careerprakashan.com/
State of Education Report
According to the Annual Status of Education Report (ASER), 2011, the grim tale of India’s school education has got grimmer, with new evidence surfacing to show that families across rural India have been ignoring the guaranteed Right to Education to seek private paid education.
Though a whopping 96.8 per cent children aged 6 to 14 years (the age group the RTE Act covers) are now enrolled in school, children’s attendance is declining and so is their ability to read simple text and do simple mathematical calculations.
Almost half (48.1 per cent) of India’s rural primary school students are either attending private schools or seeking paid tuition. Across the nation, private school enrolment for children aged 6 to 14 years rose from 18.7 per cent in 2006 to 25.6 per cent in 2011.
The survey, which covered 6.5 lakh children in 16,000 villages of 558 districts, found that one in every four rural children was attending private schools. In Kerala and Manipur, over 60 per cent children go to private schools. The percentage of students going to private schools is 71.1 for Manipur; 39.6 for Punjab, 43.4 for Haryana, 37.7 for Jammu and Kashmir and 29.6 for Himachal.
In UP, 45 per cent students were found to be going to private schools in 2011, as against 22 per cent in 2005. In Tamil Nadu, 35 per cent are attending private schools as against 16 per cent in 2005. And the percentage of students seeking paid tuitions is rising. The figure was 22.5 in 2010 and is 23.3 per cent today.
The ASER report further found levels of reading abilities to have declined in several States. Except in Punjab, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu, reading abilities declined pan India, where the percentage of fifth graders able to read Class II text dropped across the nation from 53.7 per cent in 2010 to 48.2 per cent in 2011. Except in Himachal, Standard III children showed decline in ability to read Class I text across India.
In arithmetic, the situation is worse. As for the nation, the percentage of Class III graders who can do two-digit subtractions with borrowing dropped from 36.3 per cent in 2010 to 29.9 per cent in 2011. The decline was seen everywhere except in Andhra, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, where the situation improved. The percentage of Class V children who can solve subtraction problems declined from 70.9 in 2010 to 61 this year.
SC sets deadline for government nod for prosecution of civil servant
In a landmark verdict, Supreme Court, on January 31, 2012, upheld the right of a private citizen to seek sanction for prosecution of a public servant for corruption, while setting a deadline of four months for the government to decide the issue of giving sanction for prosecution of public servants facing corruption charges.
A bench of Justices G.S. Singhvi and and A.K. Ganguly said, “There is no provision either in the 1988 Act (Prevention of Corruption Act) or the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 (CrPC) which bars a citizen from filing a complaint for prosecution of a public servant who is alleged to have committed an offence.”
The two judges also turned down the argument that the issue of sanction for prosecution of a public servant arises only at the stage of taking cognizance of the case by the court.
While prescribing a four month time-limit for deciding whether to grant sanction for prosecution of a public servant, Justices Singhvi and Ganguly, who wrote separate judgments, said sanction would be deemed to have been granted if the competent authority failed to take a decision within the period.
The order coincided with a growing feeling that sanction for prosecution of public servants facing corruption charges are deliberately delayed to kill the probe.
http://careerprakashan.com/
Saturday 25 February 2012
Prime Ministers of India
Prime Ministers of India
http://careerprakashan.com/
INC - Indian National Congress, JP - Janata Party, JD - Janata Dal
BJP - Bharatiya Janata Party, SJP - Samajwadi Janata Party
No Name From To Party
1 Jawahar Lal Nehru
15 August,
1947 27 May,
1964 INC
2 Shri Gulzarilal Nanda
27 May,
1964 9 June,
1964 INC
3 Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri
9 June,
1964 11 January,
1966 INC
4 Shri Gulzarilal Nanda
11 January,
1966 24 January,
1966 INC
5 Shrimati Indira Gandhi
24 January,
1966 24 March,
1977 INC
6 Shri Morarji Desai
24 March,
1977 28 July,
1979 JP
7 Shri Charan Singh
28 July,
1979 14 January,
1980 JP
8 Shrimati Indira Gandhi
14 January,
1980 31 October,
1984 INC
9 Shri Rajiv Gandhi
31 October,
1984 2 December,
1989 INC
(Indira)
10 Shri Vishwanath Pratap Singh
2 December,
1989 10 November,
1990 JD
11 Shri Chandra Shekhar
10 November,
1990 21 June,
1991 SJP
12 Shri P.V. Narasimha Rao
21 June,
1991 16 May,
1996 INC
13 Shri Atal Behari Vajpayee
16 May,
1996 1 June,
1996 BJP
14 H. D. Deve Gowda
1 June,
1996 21 April,
1997 JD
15 Inder Kumar Gujral
21 April,
1997 19 March,
1998 JD
16 Shri Atal Behari Vajpayee
19 March,
1998 22 May,
2004 BJP
17 Dr. Manmohan Singh
22 May,
2004 Incumb
http://careerprakashan.com/
INC - Indian National Congress, JP - Janata Party, JD - Janata Dal
BJP - Bharatiya Janata Party, SJP - Samajwadi Janata Party
No Name From To Party
1 Jawahar Lal Nehru
15 August,
1947 27 May,
1964 INC
2 Shri Gulzarilal Nanda
27 May,
1964 9 June,
1964 INC
3 Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri
9 June,
1964 11 January,
1966 INC
4 Shri Gulzarilal Nanda
11 January,
1966 24 January,
1966 INC
5 Shrimati Indira Gandhi
24 January,
1966 24 March,
1977 INC
6 Shri Morarji Desai
24 March,
1977 28 July,
1979 JP
7 Shri Charan Singh
28 July,
1979 14 January,
1980 JP
8 Shrimati Indira Gandhi
14 January,
1980 31 October,
1984 INC
9 Shri Rajiv Gandhi
31 October,
1984 2 December,
1989 INC
(Indira)
10 Shri Vishwanath Pratap Singh
2 December,
1989 10 November,
1990 JD
11 Shri Chandra Shekhar
10 November,
1990 21 June,
1991 SJP
12 Shri P.V. Narasimha Rao
21 June,
1991 16 May,
1996 INC
13 Shri Atal Behari Vajpayee
16 May,
1996 1 June,
1996 BJP
14 H. D. Deve Gowda
1 June,
1996 21 April,
1997 JD
15 Inder Kumar Gujral
21 April,
1997 19 March,
1998 JD
16 Shri Atal Behari Vajpayee
19 March,
1998 22 May,
2004 BJP
17 Dr. Manmohan Singh
22 May,
2004 Incumb
Presidents of India
Presidents of India
http://careerprakashan.com/
No Name From To
1 Dr. Rajendra Prasad
January 26, 1950 May 13, 1962
2 Dr. S. Radhakrishnan
May 13, 1962 May 13, 1967
3 Dr. Zakir Hussain
May 13, 1967 August 24, 1969
4 Shri Varahagiri Venkata Giri
August 24, 1969 August 24, 1974
5 Shri Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed
August 24, 1974 February 11, 1977
6 Shri Neelam Sanjiva Reddy
July 25, 1977 July 25, 1982
7 Shri Giani Zail Singh
July 25, 1982 July 25, 1987
8 Shri R. Venkataraman
July 25, 1987 July 25, 1992
9 Dr.S.D. Sharma
July 25, 1992 July 25, 1997
10 Shri K R Narayanan
July 25, 1997 25 July 2002
11 Dr. A.P.J.Abdul Kalam
25 July 2002 25 July 2007
12 Pratibha Patil
25 July 2007 Incumbent
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No Name From To
1 Dr. Rajendra Prasad
January 26, 1950 May 13, 1962
2 Dr. S. Radhakrishnan
May 13, 1962 May 13, 1967
3 Dr. Zakir Hussain
May 13, 1967 August 24, 1969
4 Shri Varahagiri Venkata Giri
August 24, 1969 August 24, 1974
5 Shri Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed
August 24, 1974 February 11, 1977
6 Shri Neelam Sanjiva Reddy
July 25, 1977 July 25, 1982
7 Shri Giani Zail Singh
July 25, 1982 July 25, 1987
8 Shri R. Venkataraman
July 25, 1987 July 25, 1992
9 Dr.S.D. Sharma
July 25, 1992 July 25, 1997
10 Shri K R Narayanan
July 25, 1997 25 July 2002
11 Dr. A.P.J.Abdul Kalam
25 July 2002 25 July 2007
12 Pratibha Patil
25 July 2007 Incumbent
Friday 24 February 2012
Marks Distribution for Prelims General Studies
Marks Distribution for Prelims General Studies:
Marks for 150 Questions in General Studies Preliminary is distributed unevenly between the below mentioned 8 topics.
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Mark Distribution for General Studies Main Examination:
Paper 1
Topic Question Details Marks
History & Culture 2 Questions out of 3 each 150 words, marks 15 * 2 30 marks
15 Questions out of 15 each 20 words, marks 2 * 15 30 marks
Geography of India 2 Questions out of 3 each 150 words, marks 15 * 2 30 marks
5 Questions out of 5 each 20 words, marks 2 * 5 10 marks
Indian Polity 1 Questions out of 2 with 250 words, marks 30 * 1 30 marks
2 Questions out of 3 each 150 words, marks 15 * 2 30 marks
5 Questions out of 5 each 20 words, marks 2 * 5 10 marks
Indian Current Affaires & Issues of Social Relevance 1 Questions out of 2 with 250 words, marks 30 * 1 30 marks
2 Questions out of 3 each 150 words, marks 15 * 2 30 marks
1 Questions out of 2 with 250 words, marks 30 * 1 30 marks
2 Questions out of 3 each 150 words, marks 15 * 2 30 marks
5 Questions out of 5 each 20 words, marks 2 * 5 10 marks
Paper 2
Topic Question Details Marks
India & world, Citizenship, Forign Policy 2 Questions out of 3 each 150 words, marks 30 * 2 60 marks
5 Questions out of 5 each 20 words, marks 2 * 15 10 marks
5 Questions out of 5 each 20 words, marks 2 * 15 10 marks
Indian Economy 1 Questions out of 2 with 250 words, marks 30 * 1 30 marks
2 Questions out of 3 each 150 words, marks 15 * 2 30 marks
5 Questions out of 5 each 20 words, marks 2 * 5 10 marks
India & International Organization / World Arena 1 Questions out of 2 with 150 words, marks 15 * 1 15 marks
5 Questions out of 5 each 20 words, marks 2 * 5 10 marks
5 Questions out of 5 each 20 words, marks 2 * 5 10 marks
Science & Technology 1 Questions out of 2 with 250 words, marks 30 * 1 30 marks
3 Questions out of 4 each 20 words, marks 15 * 3 45 marks
5 Questions out of 5 each 20 words, marks 2 * 5 10 marks
Statistics 4 Questions out of 4, marks 6 * 4 24 marks
3 Questions out of 3, marks 3 * 2 6 marks
Marks for 150 Questions in General Studies Preliminary is distributed unevenly between the below mentioned 8 topics.
http://careerprakashan.com/
Mark Distribution for General Studies Main Examination:
Paper 1
Topic Question Details Marks
History & Culture 2 Questions out of 3 each 150 words, marks 15 * 2 30 marks
15 Questions out of 15 each 20 words, marks 2 * 15 30 marks
Geography of India 2 Questions out of 3 each 150 words, marks 15 * 2 30 marks
5 Questions out of 5 each 20 words, marks 2 * 5 10 marks
Indian Polity 1 Questions out of 2 with 250 words, marks 30 * 1 30 marks
2 Questions out of 3 each 150 words, marks 15 * 2 30 marks
5 Questions out of 5 each 20 words, marks 2 * 5 10 marks
Indian Current Affaires & Issues of Social Relevance 1 Questions out of 2 with 250 words, marks 30 * 1 30 marks
2 Questions out of 3 each 150 words, marks 15 * 2 30 marks
1 Questions out of 2 with 250 words, marks 30 * 1 30 marks
2 Questions out of 3 each 150 words, marks 15 * 2 30 marks
5 Questions out of 5 each 20 words, marks 2 * 5 10 marks
Paper 2
Topic Question Details Marks
India & world, Citizenship, Forign Policy 2 Questions out of 3 each 150 words, marks 30 * 2 60 marks
5 Questions out of 5 each 20 words, marks 2 * 15 10 marks
5 Questions out of 5 each 20 words, marks 2 * 15 10 marks
Indian Economy 1 Questions out of 2 with 250 words, marks 30 * 1 30 marks
2 Questions out of 3 each 150 words, marks 15 * 2 30 marks
5 Questions out of 5 each 20 words, marks 2 * 5 10 marks
India & International Organization / World Arena 1 Questions out of 2 with 150 words, marks 15 * 1 15 marks
5 Questions out of 5 each 20 words, marks 2 * 5 10 marks
5 Questions out of 5 each 20 words, marks 2 * 5 10 marks
Science & Technology 1 Questions out of 2 with 250 words, marks 30 * 1 30 marks
3 Questions out of 4 each 20 words, marks 15 * 3 45 marks
5 Questions out of 5 each 20 words, marks 2 * 5 10 marks
Statistics 4 Questions out of 4, marks 6 * 4 24 marks
3 Questions out of 3, marks 3 * 2 6 marks
General Studies Strategy
General Studies Strategy
http://careerprakashan.com/
Civil services main examination is fast approaching. It is now only a few weeks away. The candidates have to keep in mind the following points regarding the General Studies paper
• Examination process is going to change every year and the candidates have to be ready to answer the new mode of paper.
• UPSC is going to select those candidates who prepared the syllabus with focus on current affairs. Over 70 questions in CSATthis year are from current affairs. About 14 questions in CSAT are from the events that took place in May 2011. That says all about the UPSC’s preference on current affairs.
• As scoring in the GS paper is difficult, every candidate should aim for the score of atleast 320.marks in each optional subject.
• Last year, the GS paper contains the questions which are related to the events that took place between October 1 and 15. Most candidates failed to answer such questions. Candidates have to read two main English newspapers daily. ‘The Hindu’ and ‘The Times of India’ are the ones which publish many articles with good content. Editorials of the newspapers are very useful.
• What the candidates have to keep in mind is that the questions based on the less prominent news too may be asked.
• The topics between September 2010 and October 2011 must be thoroughly studied.
• Thorough knowledge on environment, climate change, ecology, biodiversity is needed.
• Candidates should target the topics like Statistics and Indian Economy for high score.
• For Indian Economy, the topics like Planning, Growth, Mobilisation of Resources,Employment, Foreign Trade, Economic and Diplomacy issues relating oil, gas, energy, role of IMF, WTO, World Bank, etc. should be prepared well.
• Those candidates who scored more than 300 marks are the ones who have thorough knowledge on various subjects at secondary and higher secondary level.
• For learning the basic concepts on various subjects of optionals and GS, the IGNOU materials on optional subjects are recommended.
• The books like Yozana, Economic Survey, etc. are very useful at the hour
http://careerprakashan.com/
Civil services main examination is fast approaching. It is now only a few weeks away. The candidates have to keep in mind the following points regarding the General Studies paper
• Examination process is going to change every year and the candidates have to be ready to answer the new mode of paper.
• UPSC is going to select those candidates who prepared the syllabus with focus on current affairs. Over 70 questions in CSATthis year are from current affairs. About 14 questions in CSAT are from the events that took place in May 2011. That says all about the UPSC’s preference on current affairs.
• As scoring in the GS paper is difficult, every candidate should aim for the score of atleast 320.marks in each optional subject.
• Last year, the GS paper contains the questions which are related to the events that took place between October 1 and 15. Most candidates failed to answer such questions. Candidates have to read two main English newspapers daily. ‘The Hindu’ and ‘The Times of India’ are the ones which publish many articles with good content. Editorials of the newspapers are very useful.
• What the candidates have to keep in mind is that the questions based on the less prominent news too may be asked.
• The topics between September 2010 and October 2011 must be thoroughly studied.
• Thorough knowledge on environment, climate change, ecology, biodiversity is needed.
• Candidates should target the topics like Statistics and Indian Economy for high score.
• For Indian Economy, the topics like Planning, Growth, Mobilisation of Resources,Employment, Foreign Trade, Economic and Diplomacy issues relating oil, gas, energy, role of IMF, WTO, World Bank, etc. should be prepared well.
• Those candidates who scored more than 300 marks are the ones who have thorough knowledge on various subjects at secondary and higher secondary level.
• For learning the basic concepts on various subjects of optionals and GS, the IGNOU materials on optional subjects are recommended.
• The books like Yozana, Economic Survey, etc. are very useful at the hour
Wednesday 22 February 2012
careerprakashan.com
careerprakashan.com
Smart Smart Way to Success
ALL BOOKS ARE AVILABLE AT http://careerprakashan.com/
1. List of Services
2. Procedure of the Civil Services Examination
3. Eligibility - Academic, Age limit and Nationality
4. Number of Attempts
5. Preliminary Examination
6. Main Examination
7. Interview
8. Application Procedure
9. Job Prospects and Remuneration
10. Candidates Appeared and Recommended
11. Cut-Off Marks
12. UPSC Exams Centers
13. Upsc Application form Part I
Upsc Application form Part II
List of Civil Services
All India Services
• Indian Administrative Service
• India Foreign Service
• Indian Police Service
Group A Services
• Indian P & T Accounts & Finance Service
• Indian Audit and Accounts Service
• Indian Customs and Central Excise Service
• Indian Defence Accounts Service
• Indian Revenue Service
• Indian Ordnance Factories Service
• Indian Postal Service
• Indian Civil Accounts Service
• Indian Railway Traffic Service
• Indian Railway Accounts Service
• Indian Railway Personnel Service
• Posts of Assistant Security Officer in Railway Protection Force
• Indian Defence Estates Service
• Indian Information Service
Group - B Services
• Railway Board Secretariat Service
• Armed Forces Headquarters Civil Service
• Customs Appraisers' Service
• Delhi, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, Daman & Diu and Dadra & Nagar Haveli Civil Service and Police Service
• Pondicherry Civil Service
http://careerprakashan.com/
Current Affairs February Quiz
Congratulations to all of you as we add this new resource to help you do better in your UPSC IAS exams. We shall be giving updated Current Affairs Quizzes that will include 2011 General Knowledge, Current Affairs Gk Questions and more. The Current Affairs Quiz will help you refresh your memory on current affairs of India and the world targetted at getting you ready for the UPSC exam. This 2011 General Knowledge Quiz will updated on monthly basis.
February Quiz
1. India's per capita Income released by Central Statistical Office in the year 2010-11 increased by?
10%
15.6%
17%
2. Who won Gold Medal at the 55th National Shooting Championships for Shotgun?
Sangram Dahiya
Ankur Mittal
Ajay Mittal
3. Which countries did India sign under the aegis of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), to check tax evasion and avoidance?
France and Germany
Japan, Germany,
Iceland, Italy
4. India was ranked_____ for the most Innovative Country in GE's Second Annual Global Innovation Barometer?
5th
8th
6th
5. Government of India and the World Bank signed to execute NERLP (North East Rural Livelihoods Project), to empower rural communities for the amount of?
$100 million
$80 million
$130 million
6. When is the National voter’s day celebrated with objective of creating awareness among the people and youths since 2011?
Feb 3rd
Jan 25th
May 15th
7. Which two countries have strengthened business ties to start trading electricity and petroleum products?
India, Pakistan
India, Germany
US, India
8. The GDP Rate for 2010 -2011 Financial Year of Indian economy ended with Global market slow down to what percent??
8.4 percent
8.5 percent
7.5 percent
9. Who is the recently appointed director of NCERT?
Sudhendu Mandal
Parvin Sinclair
Krishna Kumar
10. Who wrote the book “The Wandering Falcon” which won the the Shakthi Batt first book prize for the year 2011?
Amrita Tripathi
Pragya Tiwari
Jamil Ahmad
http://careerprakashan.com/
Smart Smart Way to Success
ALL BOOKS ARE AVILABLE AT http://careerprakashan.com/
1. List of Services
2. Procedure of the Civil Services Examination
3. Eligibility - Academic, Age limit and Nationality
4. Number of Attempts
5. Preliminary Examination
6. Main Examination
7. Interview
8. Application Procedure
9. Job Prospects and Remuneration
10. Candidates Appeared and Recommended
11. Cut-Off Marks
12. UPSC Exams Centers
13. Upsc Application form Part I
Upsc Application form Part II
List of Civil Services
All India Services
• Indian Administrative Service
• India Foreign Service
• Indian Police Service
Group A Services
• Indian P & T Accounts & Finance Service
• Indian Audit and Accounts Service
• Indian Customs and Central Excise Service
• Indian Defence Accounts Service
• Indian Revenue Service
• Indian Ordnance Factories Service
• Indian Postal Service
• Indian Civil Accounts Service
• Indian Railway Traffic Service
• Indian Railway Accounts Service
• Indian Railway Personnel Service
• Posts of Assistant Security Officer in Railway Protection Force
• Indian Defence Estates Service
• Indian Information Service
Group - B Services
• Railway Board Secretariat Service
• Armed Forces Headquarters Civil Service
• Customs Appraisers' Service
• Delhi, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, Daman & Diu and Dadra & Nagar Haveli Civil Service and Police Service
• Pondicherry Civil Service
http://careerprakashan.com/
Current Affairs February Quiz
Congratulations to all of you as we add this new resource to help you do better in your UPSC IAS exams. We shall be giving updated Current Affairs Quizzes that will include 2011 General Knowledge, Current Affairs Gk Questions and more. The Current Affairs Quiz will help you refresh your memory on current affairs of India and the world targetted at getting you ready for the UPSC exam. This 2011 General Knowledge Quiz will updated on monthly basis.
February Quiz
1. India's per capita Income released by Central Statistical Office in the year 2010-11 increased by?
10%
15.6%
17%
2. Who won Gold Medal at the 55th National Shooting Championships for Shotgun?
Sangram Dahiya
Ankur Mittal
Ajay Mittal
3. Which countries did India sign under the aegis of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), to check tax evasion and avoidance?
France and Germany
Japan, Germany,
Iceland, Italy
4. India was ranked_____ for the most Innovative Country in GE's Second Annual Global Innovation Barometer?
5th
8th
6th
5. Government of India and the World Bank signed to execute NERLP (North East Rural Livelihoods Project), to empower rural communities for the amount of?
$100 million
$80 million
$130 million
6. When is the National voter’s day celebrated with objective of creating awareness among the people and youths since 2011?
Feb 3rd
Jan 25th
May 15th
7. Which two countries have strengthened business ties to start trading electricity and petroleum products?
India, Pakistan
India, Germany
US, India
8. The GDP Rate for 2010 -2011 Financial Year of Indian economy ended with Global market slow down to what percent??
8.4 percent
8.5 percent
7.5 percent
9. Who is the recently appointed director of NCERT?
Sudhendu Mandal
Parvin Sinclair
Krishna Kumar
10. Who wrote the book “The Wandering Falcon” which won the the Shakthi Batt first book prize for the year 2011?
Amrita Tripathi
Pragya Tiwari
Jamil Ahmad
http://careerprakashan.com/
Tuesday 21 February 2012
Upcoming Bank Recruitment Exams
Upcoming Bank Recruitment Exams:-
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careerprakashan.com
http://careerprakashan.com/
Bank Post & Vacancies Last date for applying Written Test date
(tentative)
Mewar Aanchalik Gramin Bank Office Assistants Recruitment 2012
Office Assistants – 42 posts Feb 16, 2012, Mar 25, 2012
Himachal Gramin Bank Officers & Assistants recruitment 2012
55 Officers and 62 Office Assistants 16 February, 2012, [Officers] – 18.03.2012, [Assistants] – 25.03.2012
Andhra Bank Dealers in forex and domestic treasury Recruitment 2012
Dealers in Forex and Domestic treasury - 5 posts Feb 18, 2012, To be mentioned Later
Karnataka Bank Specialist Officers Recruitment 2012
Specialist Officers - 10 Posts Feb 20, 2012 To be mentioned Later
South Indian Bank Clerks Recruitment 2012 (In Delhi Region)
40 Clerks Posts Feb 22, 2012 To be mentioned Later
Saraswat Bank Law officers Recruitment 2012
Experienced Law officers Unmentioned To be Mentioned Later
Tamilnad Mercantile Bank IT Officers Recruitment 2012
IT Specialist officers Feb 28, 2012, To be Mentioned Later
Indian Bank 452 PO Recruitment 2012
456 Probatinary Officers (IBPS SCORE) Feb 17 to Mar 03, 2012, Interview date to be Mentioned Later
Bank of Maharashtra 457 PO Recruitment 2012
457 Probationary Officers' Posts (IBPS SCORE) Feb 18 to Mar 09, 2012 Interview Date to be Mentioned Later ,
Allahabad Bank 1600 PO Recruitment 2012
1600 Probationary Officers' Posts Mar 10, 2012 Interview Dates to be mentioned Later
Bihar Kshetriya Gramin Bank Officers Recruitment 2012
56 Officers' Posts Feb 13 to Mar 12, 2012 Apr 15, 2012,
Madhya Bihar Gramin Bank Officers and Assistants Recruitment 2012
185 Officers and 211 Assistants Mar 15, 2012, Office Assistants :- May 06 , 2012, Officers (All Scales :- May 13, 2012
UCO Bank 1100 PO Recruitment 2012
1100 Probationary Officers' Posts (IBPS SCORE) Feb 27 to Mar 17, 2012, Interview Date to be Mentioned Later ,
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Mewar Aanchalik Gramin Bank Office Assistants Recruitment 2012
Office Assistants – 42 posts Feb 16, 2012, Mar 25, 2012
Himachal Gramin Bank Officers & Assistants recruitment 2012
55 Officers and 62 Office Assistants 16 February, 2012, [Officers] – 18.03.2012, [Assistants] – 25.03.2012
Andhra Bank Dealers in forex and domestic treasury Recruitment 2012
Dealers in Forex and Domestic treasury - 5 posts Feb 18, 2012, To be mentioned Later
Karnataka Bank Specialist Officers Recruitment 2012
Specialist Officers - 10 Posts Feb 20, 2012 To be mentioned Later
South Indian Bank Clerks Recruitment 2012 (In Delhi Region)
40 Clerks Posts Feb 22, 2012 To be mentioned Later
Saraswat Bank Law officers Recruitment 2012
Experienced Law officers Unmentioned To be Mentioned Later
Tamilnad Mercantile Bank IT Officers Recruitment 2012
IT Specialist officers Feb 28, 2012, To be Mentioned Later
Indian Bank 452 PO Recruitment 2012
456 Probatinary Officers (IBPS SCORE) Feb 17 to Mar 03, 2012, Interview date to be Mentioned Later
Bank of Maharashtra 457 PO Recruitment 2012
457 Probationary Officers' Posts (IBPS SCORE) Feb 18 to Mar 09, 2012 Interview Date to be Mentioned Later ,
Allahabad Bank 1600 PO Recruitment 2012
1600 Probationary Officers' Posts Mar 10, 2012 Interview Dates to be mentioned Later
Bihar Kshetriya Gramin Bank Officers Recruitment 2012
56 Officers' Posts Feb 13 to Mar 12, 2012 Apr 15, 2012,
Madhya Bihar Gramin Bank Officers and Assistants Recruitment 2012
185 Officers and 211 Assistants Mar 15, 2012, Office Assistants :- May 06 , 2012, Officers (All Scales :- May 13, 2012
UCO Bank 1100 PO Recruitment 2012
1100 Probationary Officers' Posts (IBPS SCORE) Feb 27 to Mar 17, 2012, Interview Date to be Mentioned Later ,
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