UKPSC Subject List Prelims, Mains, Essay Compulsory Subject

Get the complete UKPSC Subject List for Prelims and Mains in Hindi and English. Know all papers, topics, and mark distribution to plan your preparation effectively. Download the official UKPSC syllabus PDF for structured study and exam success.

UKPSC Subject list
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Are you getting ready for UKPSC PCS exam 2025? Being aware of the UKPSC prelims and mains subject list is the first step towards cracking the prestigious state civil services exam. The Uttarakhand Public Service Commission (UKPSC) conducts the Combined Upper Subordinate Services Exam for recruiting candidates to posts in the administration of Uttarakhand. As the syllabus covers both national as well as state-specific topics, a clear comprehension of the UKPSC prelims topics, UKPSC mains topics, and compulsory subjects like essay and General Hindi can be a turning point.

Here in this comprehensive guide, we are going to break down the UKPSC syllabus subjects list for Prelims, Mains, and the compulsory Essay paper. If you are preparing for the first time or preparing for the October 2025 cycle, these are going to be the points that will guide your planning. Download the current official PDF of the UKPSC syllabus from the official UKPSC website, but let’s proceed to the points.

Also Read: UKPSC Prelims Result 2025

UKPSC Subject List for Prelims and Mains (Hindi & English) PDF

UKPSC Subject List for Prelims and Mains (Hindi & English) provides complete details of all papers, topics, and marks distribution for effective preparation. Candidates can download the official UKPSC syllabus PDF to plan their studies strategically and focus on key subjects essential for Uttarakhand PCS success in both preliminary and main examinations. 

UKPSC prelims subject list in Hindi Download Link
UKPSC prelims subject list in English Download Link
UKPSC mains subject list in Hindi Download Link
UKPSC Mains subject list in English Download Link

Also Read: UKPSC Prelims Cutoff 2025

UKPSC Prelims Subject List

UKPSC Prelims is a qualifying round to shortlist applicants for Mains. It’s an objective paper (MCQs) of 300 marks, held in two papers in 4 hours. UKPSC prelims subject list emphasizes general awareness and aptitude with special reference to Uttarakhand. Paper II (CSAT) is a qualifying paper score of at least 33% to go ahead. Important UKPSC Prelims Subjects and topics:

Paper

Subject Marks

Key Topics

Paper I: General Studies History, Geography, Polity, Economy, Environment, Current Affairs, Uttarakhand-Specific 150 – Indian History (Ancient, Medieval, Modern) and Freedom Struggle

– Physical, Social, and Economic Geography of India & World

– Indian Polity (Constitution, Governance, Panchayati Raj)

– Economic Development (Planning, Poverty, Inclusion)

– Environment & Ecology (Biodiversity, Climate Change)

– Current Events (National & International)

– Uttarakhand History, Geography, Economy, Culture, and Statehood Movement

Paper II: CSAT (General Aptitude) Reasoning, Analytical Ability, Comprehension, Basic Numeracy 150 (Qualifying) – Comprehension (English & Hindi)

– Interpersonal Skills & Communication

– Logical Reasoning & Analytical Ability

– Decision-Making & Problem-Solving

– General Mental Ability

– Basic Numeracy (Numbers, Orders of Magnitude)

– Data Interpretation (Charts, Graphs, Tables)

Note: Allocate 60% of your time to General Studies Paper I, as it determines your merit. Focus on Uttarakhand-specific UKPSC prelims subjects like the state’s herbal economy, tourism, and disaster management—these often fetch high scores. Negative marking (1/4th) applies, so accuracy is key.

Also Read: UKPSC Application Form 2026

UKPSC Mains Subject List 

Once you clear Prelims, the UKPSC Mains is the real game-changer. This UKPSC mains subjects descriptive exam totals carry 1500 marks across eight compulsory papers (no optionals in the updated 2025 pattern). Each paper lasts 3 hours, and the syllabus aligns closely with UPSC/UPPCS for broader coverage, with dedicated papers on Uttarakhand issues. The UKPSC mains subject list tests your analytical depth, writing skills, and state knowledge. UKPSC mains subjects include language papers, essays, and General Studies (GS) papers. Here’s the detailed list:

Paper No.

Subject Marks

Key Focus Areas

Paper 1 General Hindi 150 – Grammar (High School Level)

– Vocabulary, Synonyms/Antonyms

– Essay Writing (200-250 words)

– Precis & Translation (Hindi to English)

Minimum 35% required to qualify

Paper 2 Essay 150 – Write one essay (700-800 words) from three subsections (A, B, C)

– Topics: Current Affairs, Socio-Economic Issues, Uttarakhand Development

– Evaluation on Structure, Content, Originality, and Language

Paper 3 GS Paper I 200 – Indian Heritage & Culture

– Modern Indian History (1857 Revolt to Independence)

– World History (Industrial Revolution, World Wars)

– Society (Diversity, Role of Women, Poverty)

Paper 4 GS Paper II 200 – Indian Polity (Constitution, Federalism, Panchayati Raj)

– Governance (Transparency, E-Governance)

– International Relations (India’s Neighborhood Policy)

– Social Justice (Vulnerable Sections)

Paper 5 GS Paper III 200 – Economic Development (Planning, Agriculture, Industry)

– Science & Technology (Innovations, Space Program)

– Environment (Conservation, Disaster Management)

– Security (Internal & Border Issues)

Paper 6 GS Paper IV 200 – Ethics & Integrity (Attitude, Aptitude)

– Emotional Intelligence

– Public Service Values

– Case Studies on Ethical Dilemmas

Paper 7 GS Paper V (Uttarakhand-Specific) 200 – History & Culture of Uttarakhand

– Geography (Himalayan Ecology, Rivers)

– Economy (Tourism, Horticulture, Migration)

– Polity & Administration (State Governance)

Paper 8 GS Paper VI (Uttarakhand-Specific) 200 – Contemporary Issues (Disaster Preparedness, Women’s Empowerment)

– Developmental Schemes

– Environmental Challenges (Glacial Melting, Forest Conservation)

– Current Affairs of Uttarakhand

Note: The compulsory nature of all papers means balanced preparation is crucial. UKPSC mains compulsory subjects like General Hindi and Essay build your foundational skills, while GS Papers V and VI highlight Uttarakhand’s unique challenges—think Chipko Movement or Tehri Dam. Aim for concise, structured answers with diagrams for higher marks.

UKPSC Essay and Compulsory Subject

UKPSC essay compulsory subject is Paper 2 in Mains, carrying 150 marks. It’s not just about knowledge but expressing ideas coherently. Candidates select one topic from three subsections (A: National Issues, B: International, C: Uttarakhand/State-Specific) and  Tips for UKPSC Essay Compulsory Subject Success: 

  • Structure: Introduction (Hook + Thesis), Body (Arguments with Examples), Conclusion (Summation + Way Forward).
  • Keywords Integration: Use terms like “Sustainable Development in Uttarakhand” or “Ethical Governance” to align with GS themes.
  • Scoring Criteria: 50 marks each for three essays attempted in practice—focus on relevance, originality, and grammar.
  • Common Themes: Climate Change Impacts on Himalayas, Women’s Role in Uttarakhand’s Economy, Digital India in Remote Areas.
  • Practice 2-3 essays weekly to build stamina. Resources like Yojana magazine can spark ideas for this UKPSC compulsory essay subject.

What Are the Compulsory Subjects in UKPSC Mains?

All eight papers in UKPSC Mains are compulsory—no optional subjects in the 2025 pattern. The UKPSC mains compulsory subjects list includes:

  1. General Hindi (150 marks) – Qualifying (35% minimum).
  2. Essay (150 marks) – One long essay from three sections.
  3. GS Paper I to VI (200 marks each) – Covering History, Polity, Economy, Ethics, and two dedicated Uttarakhand papers.

Total: 1500 marks. Focus equally on language skills and content depth for this UKPSC compulsory subjects structure.

How Many Subjects Are There in UKPSC Prelims?

UKPSC Prelims has 2 subjects (papers). Together, they form the UKPSC prelims subject list with integrated topics like History, Geography, and Uttarakhand GK in GS Paper 1 and Mathematics, reasoning etc in GS 2:

  • Paper I: General Studies (150 marks, merit-based).
  • Paper II: CSAT (150 marks, qualifying at 33%).

Is There Negative Marking in UKPSC Prelims?

Yes, there is a negative marking of 1/4th mark (0.25) for every wrong answer in both Prelims papers. No penalty for unattempted questions. This applies to the UKPSC prelims subject list MCQs—prioritize accuracy over guesswork.

What are the Qualifying Marks for UKPSC Mains Hindi and CSAT?

Qualifying marks for UKPSC Mains Hindi and CSAT (Prelims Paper 2) are as follows:

  • UKPSC Mains General Hindi: Minimum 35% (52.5/150) to qualify. Marks not added to the final merit.
  • UKPSC Prelims CSAT: Minimum 33% (50/150) to qualify. Also not counted in merit.
  • Failing either blocks your UKPSC mains subjects evaluation.

Best Books for UKPSC Subject List Preparation

Choosing the best books for the Uttarakhand Public Service Commission (UKPSC) Subject List preparation is crucial as they provide comprehensive coverage of topics, exam-oriented content, and focused practice for both Prelims and Mains examinations

UKPSC Prelims Subjects Books

Subject

Recommended Books

General Studies – NCERT Class 6-12 (History, Geography, Polity, Economy)

– Lucent’s General Knowledge

– Uttarakhand Special by Pariksha Vani

CSAT – RS Aggarwal Quantitative Aptitude

– CSAT Manual

– Previous Year UKPSC Papers

 

UKPSC Mains Compulsory Subjects Books

Paper

Recommended Books

General Hindi – Samanya Hindi by Lucent

– Hardev Bahri Hindi Vyakaran

Essay – Any Essay book

– Yojana & Kurukshetra Magazines

GS I-IV – Spectrum Modern History

– Laxmikant Indian Polity

– Ramesh Singh Economy etc.

GS V-VI (Uttarakhand) – Uttarakhand Ek Samagra Adhyayan

– Uttarakhand General Knowledge

-State Government Reports & Budget

Note: Solve UKPSC previous year papers (available on psc.uk.gov.in) for all UKPSC subject list sections.

Also Read: UKPSC Calendar 2025-26

How to Prepare UKPSC Essay Compulsory Subject?

  1. Read Editorials: Read Newspapers with Uttarakhand edition.
  2. Practice Structure: Intro (100 words), Body (500-600), and Conclusion (100).
  3. Cover All Sections: Prepare 5 topics each from National, International, and Uttarakhand.
  4. Word Limit: Stick to 700-800 words for the UKPSC essay compulsory subject.
  5. Mock Essays: Join test series.

Preparation Strategy for UKPSC Subject List: Prelims to Mains

To conquer the UKPSC PCS subject list, follow this roadmap:

  1. Analyze Syllabus: Prioritize high-weightage UKPSC prelims subjects like Current Affairs (30% of Paper I).
  2. Study Plan: Dedicate 40% time to Mains GS Papers, 20% to Uttarakhand-specific, 20% to Hindi/Essay, and 20% to mocks.
  3. Resources: NCERTs for basics, Laxmikant for Polity, Spectrum for History, UKPSC-specific books like “Uttarakhand Ek Parichay.”
  4. Mock Tests: Simulate exam conditions for both stages to handle the UKPSC mains compulsory subjects pressure.
  5. Current Affairs: Track The Hindu, PIB, and Uttarakhand news portals daily.
  6. The Interview (150 marks) follows Mains, focusing on personality and state awareness. With consistent effort, you can secure a spot in Uttarakhand’s elite services.

UKPSC Subject List FAQs

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Yes, CSAT (Paper II) is qualifying with a minimum of 33% (50/150 marks). Only GS Paper I marks are counted for merit.

Only one essay of 700–800 words from 3 given topics (one each from the National, International, and Uttarakhand sections).

Yes, 1/4th mark (0.25) is deducted for every wrong answer in both Prelims papers.

No. General Hindi (Mains) and CSAT (Prelims) are qualifying only. Final merit = Mains GS + Essay + Interview.


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