Mains Syllabus of meghalaya psc Exam 2024

Table of Contents

Mains Syllabus of Meghalaya PSC Exam 2024

General Studies

Paper 1: Indian History, Geography, and Culture

1. Indian History

Ancient India: Harappan Civilization, Vedic Period, Rise of Kingdoms, Mauryan Empire, Gupta Empire, Religious Movements, Art and Architecture.
Medieval India: Delhi Sultanate, Mughal Empire, Vijayanagara and Bahmani Kingdoms, Regional Kingdoms, Social and Cultural Developments.
Modern India: British Colonial Rule, Nationalist Movement, Independence and Partition, Post-Independence India.
Meghalaya History: Pre-colonial Meghalaya, British Administration, Post-Independence Meghalaya, Socio-cultural and Political Developments.

2. Indian Geography

Physical Geography: Landforms, Climate, Soils, Vegetation, Natural Resources.
Human Geography: Population, Settlement, Agriculture, Industry, Transportation, Communication.
Geography of India: Regional Geography, Major Rivers, Mountains, Plateaus, Coastal Areas.
Geography of Meghalaya: Topography, Climate, Flora and Fauna, Natural Resources, Environmental Issues.

3. Indian Culture

Art and Architecture: Ancient, Medieval, and Modern Indian Art, Architecture, Sculpture, Painting, Music, Dance.
Literature: Major Literary Works, Literary Movements, Prominent Writers.
Religion and Philosophy: Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism, Islam, Christianity, Major Philosophical Schools.
Culture of Meghalaya: Tribes, Languages, Customs, Traditions, Festivals, Art and Crafts.

Table 1: Major Tribes of Meghalaya

Tribe	Language	Population	Major Occupation
Khasi	Khasi	600,000	Agriculture, Trading
Garo	Garo	400,000	Agriculture, Weaving
Jaintia	Jaintia	100,000	Agriculture, Mining
Bodo	Bodo	50,000	Agriculture, Fishing
Nepali	Nepali	20,000	Trading, Agriculture

4. Current Affairs

National and International Events, Major Issues, Developments in Science and Technology, Environment, Economy, and Politics.
Current Affairs related to Meghalaya: State Politics, Economy, Development Projects, Social Issues.

Paper 2: Indian Polity, Economy, and Governance

1. Indian Polity

Constitution of India: Features, Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles, Union Government, State Government, Judiciary, Parliament, Elections.
Political System: Federalism, Panchayati Raj, Local Self-Government, Political Parties, Pressure Groups.
Public Administration: Administrative Reforms, Good Governance, Transparency and Accountability.
Meghalaya Polity: State Constitution, Legislative Assembly, Executive, Judiciary, Local Governance.

2. Indian Economy

Economic Development: Planning, Growth, Poverty, Inequality, Unemployment.
Economic Policies: Fiscal Policy, Monetary Policy, Industrial Policy, Trade Policy.
Infrastructure: Transportation, Communication, Energy, Water Resources.
Meghalaya Economy: Agriculture, Industry, Tourism, Employment, Development Challenges.

3. Governance

Role of Government: Public Policy, Public Service Delivery, Citizen Engagement.
Challenges to Governance: Corruption, Inequality, Social Exclusion, Environmental Degradation.
Good Governance: Transparency, Accountability, Participation, Rule of Law.
E-Governance: Digitalization, Online Services, Citizen-Centric Governance.

4. Disaster Management

Disaster Management in India: National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMAs).
Disaster Preparedness: Risk Assessment, Early Warning Systems, Evacuation Plans.
Disaster Response: Relief and Rehabilitation, Search and Rescue Operations.
Disaster Management in Meghalaya: Floods, Earthquakes, Landslides, Cyclones, Disaster Mitigation Strategies.

Paper 3: Science and Technology, Environment, and Disaster Management

1. Science and Technology

Basic Concepts in Science: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics.
Technology and its Impact: Information Technology, Biotechnology, Nanotechnology, Space Technology.
Science and Technology in India: Research and Development, Innovation, Science Policy.
Science and Technology in Meghalaya: Agriculture, Health, Education, Infrastructure.

2. Environment

Environmental Issues: Pollution, Climate Change, Biodiversity Loss, Deforestation.
Environmental Protection: Environmental Laws, Sustainable Development, Conservation Efforts.
Environmental Issues in Meghalaya: Forest Degradation, Water Pollution, Waste Management, Climate Change Impacts.

3. Disaster Management

Disaster Management in India: National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMAs).
Disaster Preparedness: Risk Assessment, Early Warning Systems, Evacuation Plans.
Disaster Response: Relief and Rehabilitation, Search and Rescue Operations.
Disaster Management in Meghalaya: Floods, Earthquakes, Landslides, Cyclones, Disaster Mitigation Strategies.

Table 2: Major Environmental Issues in Meghalaya

Issue	Cause	Impact	Mitigation Measures
Deforestation	Illegal logging, Shifting cultivation	Soil erosion, Loss of biodiversity, Climate change	Afforestation, Sustainable forestry practices
Water Pollution	Industrial waste, Agricultural runoff, Sewage	Contamination of water sources, Health hazards	Wastewater treatment, Sustainable agricultural practices
Waste Management	Inadequate waste collection and disposal	Environmental pollution, Health risks	Waste segregation, Recycling, Composting
Climate Change	Global warming, Greenhouse gas emissions	Extreme weather events, Sea level rise	Renewable energy, Carbon sequestration, Adaptation strategies

Paper 4: Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude

1. Ethics and Human Values

Ethics: Concepts of Ethics, Moral Philosophy, Ethical Theories, Values and Ethics.
Human Values: Integrity, Honesty, Compassion, Empathy, Tolerance, Respect for Diversity.
Ethical Dilemmas: Decision-Making in Ethical Situations, Conflict of Interest, Corruption.

2. Integrity

Integrity in Public Service: Principles of Integrity, Accountability, Transparency, Impartiality.
Corruption: Types of Corruption, Causes and Consequences, Anti-Corruption Measures.
Whistleblower Protection: Importance of Whistleblower Protection, Legal Framework.

3. Aptitude

Problem-Solving: Analytical and Critical Thinking, Decision-Making, Logical Reasoning.
Communication Skills: Written and Oral Communication, Interpersonal Skills.
Emotional Intelligence: Self-Awareness, Empathy, Social Skills, Stress Management.
Leadership Qualities: Motivation, Teamwork, Vision, Strategic Thinking.

4. Current Issues

Ethical Issues in Current Affairs: Social Issues, Political Issues, Economic Issues.
Ethical Challenges in Meghalaya: Corruption, Inequality, Social Exclusion, Environmental Degradation.

Paper 5: Meghalaya Specific Issues

1. History and Culture of Meghalaya

Pre-colonial Meghalaya: Tribes, Languages, Customs, Traditions, Festivals, Art and Crafts.
British Administration: Impact of British Rule, Socio-cultural and Political Changes.
Post-Independence Meghalaya: Formation of the State, Political Developments, Socio-economic Progress.

2. Geography and Environment of Meghalaya

Topography: Hills, Plateaus, Rivers, Forests.
Climate: Rainfall, Temperature, Humidity.
Flora and Fauna: Biodiversity, Endemic Species, Conservation Efforts.
Environmental Issues: Deforestation, Water Pollution, Waste Management, Climate Change Impacts.

3. Economy and Development of Meghalaya

Agriculture: Major Crops, Livestock, Horticulture, Challenges.
Industry: Mining, Tourism, Handicrafts, Small and Medium Enterprises.
Infrastructure: Transportation, Communication, Energy, Water Resources.
Development Challenges: Poverty, Unemployment, Inequality, Lack of Infrastructure.

4. Social Issues in Meghalaya

Education: Literacy Rates, Access to Education, Quality of Education.
Health: Health Indicators, Healthcare Infrastructure, Public Health Issues.
Gender Equality: Women’s Empowerment, Gender-Based Violence.
Tribal Issues: Land Rights, Cultural Preservation, Social Justice.

5. Current Affairs related to Meghalaya

State Politics: Political Parties, Elections, Governance.
Economy: Development Projects, Employment, Investment.
Social Issues: Education, Health, Gender Equality, Tribal Issues.
Environmental Issues: Deforestation, Water Pollution, Climate Change.

Paper 6: Essay

Candidates will be required to write an essay on a given topic related to general studies or Meghalaya specific issues.
The essay should demonstrate the candidate’s knowledge, analytical skills, and writing ability.

Paper 7: Comprehension and Composition

Comprehension: Candidates will be given a passage to read and answer questions based on the passage.
Composition: Candidates will be required to write a short composition on a given topic.
This paper assesses the candidate’s reading comprehension, writing skills, and vocabulary.

Paper 8: General Knowledge

This paper covers a wide range of topics, including current affairs, history, geography, science, and culture.
The questions are designed to test the candidate’s general awareness and knowledge.

Paper 9: Interview

The interview is conducted by a panel of experts.
The interview assesses the candidate’s personality, communication skills, knowledge, and suitability for the post.

Note: The syllabus is subject to change. Candidates are advised to refer to the official notification for the latest syllabus.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and Short Answers for Meghalaya PSC Mains Exam 2024

General Studies

1. What are the major historical events that shaped Meghalaya?

Short Answer: The formation of Meghalaya as a separate state in 1972, the role of the Khasi, Garo, and Jaintia tribes in shaping the state’s culture and identity, and the impact of British colonial rule on the region are some of the key historical events.

2. What are the major geographical features of Meghalaya?

Short Answer: Meghalaya is known for its rolling hills, lush forests, and numerous waterfalls. The state is also home to the highest rainfall in the world, with the Mawsmai region receiving over 11,000 mm of rainfall annually.

3. What are the major cultural aspects of Meghalaya?

Short Answer: Meghalaya is a state with a rich and diverse culture, influenced by its tribal communities. The state is known for its traditional music, dance, and handicrafts, as well as its unique matrilineal society.

4. What are the current challenges facing Meghalaya?

Short Answer: Meghalaya faces challenges such as poverty, unemployment, lack of infrastructure, environmental degradation, and social issues like gender inequality and tribal unrest.

Indian Polity, Economy, and Governance

1. What are the key features of the Indian Constitution?

Short Answer: The Indian Constitution is a federal, parliamentary democracy with a written constitution. It guarantees fundamental rights, promotes social justice, and emphasizes the rule of law.

2. What are the major economic challenges facing India?

Short Answer: India faces challenges such as poverty, inequality, unemployment, and a lack of infrastructure. The country is also grappling with issues like climate change and environmental degradation.

3. What are the key principles of good governance?

Short Answer: Good governance is characterized by transparency, accountability, participation, and the rule of law. It aims to ensure effective and efficient public service delivery.

Science and Technology, Environment, and Disaster Management

1. What are the major technological advancements in India?

Short Answer: India has made significant strides in information technology, biotechnology, space technology, and nuclear technology. The country is also investing heavily in research and development.

2. What are the major environmental issues facing India?

Short Answer: India faces challenges such as air pollution, water pollution, deforestation, and climate change. The country is working towards sustainable development and environmental protection.

3. What are the key elements of disaster management?

Short Answer: Disaster management involves preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery. It aims to minimize the impact of natural disasters and other emergencies.

Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude

1. What are the core values of public service?

Short Answer: Public service is guided by values such as integrity, honesty, impartiality, accountability, and public interest.

2. What are the ethical dilemmas faced by public servants?

Short Answer: Public servants often face ethical dilemmas related to conflict of interest, corruption, and misuse of power.

3. What are the key skills required for effective problem-solving?

Short Answer: Effective problem-solving requires analytical thinking, critical thinking, decision-making, and logical reasoning.

Meghalaya Specific Issues

1. What are the major challenges facing Meghalaya’s economy?

Short Answer: Meghalaya’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, but the state faces challenges such as low productivity, lack of infrastructure, and limited industrial development.

2. What are the key social issues in Meghalaya?

Short Answer: Meghalaya faces social issues such as poverty, unemployment, gender inequality, and tribal unrest. The state also has a high rate of illiteracy and poor health indicators.

3. What are the major environmental concerns in Meghalaya?

Short Answer: Meghalaya is facing environmental challenges such as deforestation, water pollution, and climate change. The state is working towards sustainable development and environmental protection.

Essay and Comprehension and Composition

1. What are the key elements of a good essay?

Short Answer: A good essay should have a clear thesis statement, strong arguments, supporting evidence, and a logical structure.

2. What are the key skills required for effective reading comprehension?

Short Answer: Effective reading comprehension requires the ability to identify the main idea, understand the author’s purpose, and draw inferences from the text.

General Knowledge

1. What are the current events that are important for the Meghalaya PSC exam?

Short Answer: Candidates should stay updated on national and international events, particularly those related to India and Meghalaya.

2. What are the key historical figures and events that are relevant to the exam?

Short Answer: Candidates should have a good understanding of Indian history, including the history of Meghalaya, and the key figures and events that shaped the region.

Interview

1. What are the key qualities that the interview panel looks for in candidates?

Short Answer: The interview panel looks for candidates who are knowledgeable, articulate, confident, and have a strong understanding of public service ethics.

2. What are some common interview questions?

Short Answer: Common interview questions include questions about the candidate’s motivation for joining public service, their strengths and weaknesses, their knowledge of current affairs, and their views on ethical issues.

Note: These are just a few examples of frequently asked questions. Candidates should refer to previous years’ question papers and other study materials to get a better understanding of the exam pattern and the type of questions asked.