Syllabus and Exam Pattern for opsc oas Exam 2024

Syllabus and Exam Pattern for OPSC OAS Exam 2024

OPSC OAS Exam: An Overview

The Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC) conducts the Odisha Administrative Service (OAS) Exam to recruit candidates for various administrative posts in the Odisha government. The exam is held annually in multiple stages, including a preliminary exam, a mains exam, and an interview.

OPSC OAS Exam 2024: Eligibility Criteria

  • Nationality: Candidates must be citizens of India.
  • Age: Candidates must be between 21 and 32 years of age as on January 1st of the year of the exam. Age relaxation is available for reserved categories as per government rules.
  • Educational Qualification: Candidates must possess a graduate degree from a recognized university.

OPSC OAS Exam 2024: Exam Pattern

The OPSC OAS Exam 2024 will be conducted in three stages:

1. Preliminary Exam:

  • Objective Type: The preliminary exam is an objective type exam consisting of two papers:
    • Paper 1: General Studies (200 marks)
    • Paper 2: Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT) (200 marks)
  • Duration: Each paper is of 2 hours duration.
  • Negative Marking: There is a negative marking of 1/3rd mark for each incorrect answer.
  • Qualifying Nature: The preliminary exam is qualifying in nature. Candidates need to clear the cut-off marks to be eligible for the mains exam.

2. Mains Exam:

  • Descriptive Type: The mains exam is a descriptive type exam consisting of 7 papers:
    • Paper 1: Essay (200 marks)
    • Paper 2: General Studies I (200 marks)
    • Paper 3: General Studies II (200 marks)
    • Paper 4: General Studies III (200 marks)
    • Paper 5: Optional Subject – Paper I (200 marks)
    • Paper 6: Optional Subject – Paper II (200 marks)
    • Paper 7: Odia Language (100 marks)
  • Duration: Each paper is of 3 hours duration.
  • Qualifying Nature: The mains exam is qualifying in nature. Candidates need to clear the cut-off marks in each paper to be eligible for the interview.

3. Interview:

  • Personality Test: The interview is a personality test conducted by a board of experts.
  • Marks: The interview carries 100 marks.
  • Final Merit List: The final merit list is prepared based on the candidates’ performance in the mains exam and interview.

OPSC OAS Exam 2024: Syllabus

1. Preliminary Exam:

Paper 1: General Studies

  • Current Events of National and International Importance: This section covers major events, issues, and developments in India and the world.
  • History of India and Indian National Movement: This section covers the history of India from ancient times to the present, including the Indian national movement.
  • Indian Polity and Governance – Constitution of India, Political System, Panchayati Raj, Public Policy, Rights Issues, etc.: This section covers the Indian Constitution, political system, Panchayati Raj institutions, public policy, and various rights issues.
  • Economic and Social Development – Sustainable Development, Poverty, Inclusion, Demographics, Social Sector Initiatives, etc.: This section covers economic and social development issues, including sustainable development, poverty, inclusion, demographics, and social sector initiatives.
  • General Science: This section covers basic concepts of science, including physics, chemistry, biology, and the environment.
  • Geography of India: This section covers the physical, economic, and social geography of India.
  • Environment and Ecology: This section covers environmental issues, including climate change, pollution, biodiversity, and conservation.
  • Disaster Management: This section covers disaster management concepts, preparedness, and response.
  • Odisha Specific Issues: This section covers issues related to Odisha, including its history, culture, economy, and social development.

Paper 2: Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT)

  • Comprehension and Composition: This section tests the candidate’s ability to comprehend and analyze given passages and write effective essays.
  • Logical Reasoning and Analytical Ability: This section tests the candidate’s logical reasoning and analytical skills.
  • Decision Making and Problem Solving: This section tests the candidate’s ability to make decisions and solve problems effectively.
  • Basic Numeracy: This section tests the candidate’s basic mathematical skills.
  • Data Interpretation: This section tests the candidate’s ability to interpret and analyze data presented in various formats.

2. Mains Exam:

Paper 1: Essay

  • Candidates are required to write essays on topics of general interest.
  • The essays should be well-structured, coherent, and grammatically correct.

Paper 2: General Studies I

  • Indian Culture and Heritage: This section covers Indian culture, heritage, art, literature, and architecture.
  • History of Modern India: This section covers the history of modern India from the 18th century to the present.
  • World History: This section covers major events and developments in world history.
  • Geography of India: This section covers the physical, economic, and social geography of India.
  • Indian Polity and Governance: This section covers the Indian Constitution, political system, Panchayati Raj institutions, and public policy.

Paper 3: General Studies II

  • Indian Economy: This section covers the Indian economy, including its structure, growth, challenges, and policies.
  • Social Issues: This section covers social issues in India, including poverty, inequality, education, health, and gender.
  • Environment and Ecology: This section covers environmental issues, including climate change, pollution, biodiversity, and conservation.
  • Disaster Management: This section covers disaster management concepts, preparedness, and response.
  • Science and Technology: This section covers advancements in science and technology and their impact on society.

Paper 4: General Studies III

  • Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude: This section covers ethical principles, values, and their application in public service.
  • Governance, Constitution, Polity, Law, and Justice: This section covers the Indian Constitution, political system, law, and justice system.
  • Security and Disaster Management: This section covers national security, internal security, and disaster management.
  • International Relations: This section covers India’s foreign policy, international organizations, and global issues.
  • Contemporary Issues: This section covers current events and issues of national and international importance.

Paper 5 & 6: Optional Subject

  • Candidates can choose one optional subject from a list of subjects offered by OPSC.
  • The optional subject should be related to the candidate’s educational background or area of interest.
  • Each optional subject consists of two papers.

Paper 7: Odia Language

  • This paper tests the candidate’s proficiency in the Odia language.
  • The paper covers grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, and essay writing.

OPSC OAS Exam 2024: Preparation Strategy

  • Understand the Syllabus: Start by thoroughly understanding the syllabus for each stage of the exam.
  • Gather Study Material: Collect relevant study material, including textbooks, reference books, and online resources.
  • Create a Study Plan: Develop a structured study plan that covers all the topics in the syllabus.
  • Practice Previous Year Papers: Solve previous year papers to understand the exam pattern, difficulty level, and time management.
  • Join Coaching Classes: Consider joining coaching classes to get expert guidance and mentorship.
  • Stay Updated with Current Affairs: Keep yourself updated with current events of national and international importance.
  • Focus on Weak Areas: Identify your weak areas and dedicate extra time to improve them.
  • Mock Tests: Take regular mock tests to assess your preparation level and identify areas for improvement.
  • Revision: Regularly revise the syllabus to retain the information.
  • Stay Motivated: Stay motivated and focused throughout your preparation journey.

OPSC OAS Exam 2024: Important Resources

  • OPSC Official Website: The official website of OPSC is the primary source of information about the exam.
  • Textbooks and Reference Books: There are numerous textbooks and reference books available for each subject.
  • Online Resources: Several online resources, including websites, blogs, and YouTube channels, provide study material and preparation tips.
  • Coaching Classes: Reputed coaching classes offer comprehensive preparation programs for the OPSC OAS Exam.
  • Newspapers and Magazines: Stay updated with current affairs by reading newspapers and magazines.

OPSC OAS Exam 2024: Important Dates

  • Notification Release: The notification for the OPSC OAS Exam 2024 is expected to be released in the first quarter of 2024.
  • Application Deadline: The application deadline is usually a few months after the notification release.
  • Preliminary Exam: The preliminary exam is usually held in the second half of 2024.
  • Mains Exam: The mains exam is usually held a few months after the preliminary exam.
  • Interview: The interview is usually held after the mains exam.

OPSC OAS Exam 2024: Cut-off Marks

  • The cut-off marks for the preliminary and mains exams are determined by OPSC based on the number of vacancies, the difficulty level of the exam, and the performance of the candidates.
  • The cut-off marks for the reserved categories are usually lower than the general category.

OPSC OAS Exam 2024: Salary and Benefits

  • The salary and benefits for OAS officers are determined by the Odisha government.
  • The starting salary is usually in the range of INR 56,100 to INR 1,77,500 per month.
  • OAS officers are also eligible for various benefits, including housing, medical, and travel allowances.

OPSC OAS Exam 2024: Career Prospects

  • The OPSC OAS Exam is a gateway to a rewarding career in the Odisha government.
  • OAS officers play a vital role in the administration and development of the state.
  • They have the opportunity to work in various departments, including revenue, education, health, and social welfare.
  • OAS officers can also rise to higher positions in the government hierarchy.

OPSC OAS Exam 2024: Tips for Success

  • Stay Focused: Stay focused on your goal and avoid distractions.
  • Time Management: Manage your time effectively and allocate sufficient time for each subject.
  • Regular Practice: Practice regularly to improve your speed and accuracy.
  • Stay Positive: Maintain a positive attitude and believe in yourself.
  • Seek Guidance: Seek guidance from experienced mentors or coaching classes.
  • Stay Updated: Stay updated with current events and developments.
  • Health and Well-being: Take care of your health and well-being during your preparation journey.

OPSC OAS Exam 2024: FAQs

  • What is the syllabus for the OPSC OAS Exam 2024?
    • The syllabus for the OPSC OAS Exam 2024 is available on the official website of OPSC.
  • What is the exam pattern for the OPSC OAS Exam 2024?
    • The exam pattern for the OPSC OAS Exam 2024 is described in detail above.
  • What are the important dates for the OPSC OAS Exam 2024?
    • The important dates for the OPSC OAS Exam 2024 are expected to be announced in the notification.
  • How can I prepare for the OPSC OAS Exam 2024?
    • You can prepare for the OPSC OAS Exam 2024 by following the preparation strategy outlined above.
  • What are the cut-off marks for the OPSC OAS Exam 2024?
    • The cut-off marks for the OPSC OAS Exam 2024 are determined by OPSC based on various factors.
  • What is the salary and benefits for OAS officers?
    • The salary and benefits for OAS officers are determined by the Odisha government.
  • What are the career prospects for OAS officers?
    • OAS officers have excellent career prospects in the Odisha government.

OPSC OAS Exam 2024: Conclusion

The OPSC OAS Exam is a challenging but rewarding exam that offers a gateway to a fulfilling career in the Odisha government. By following the preparation strategy and tips outlined above, candidates can increase their chances of success in the exam.

Table 1: OPSC OAS Exam 2024: Exam Pattern

Stage Paper Subject Marks Duration
Preliminary Exam Paper 1 General Studies 200 2 hours
Preliminary Exam Paper 2 Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT) 200 2 hours
Mains Exam Paper 1 Essay 200 3 hours
Mains Exam Paper 2 General Studies I 200 3 hours
Mains Exam Paper 3 General Studies II 200 3 hours
Mains Exam Paper 4 General Studies III 200 3 hours
Mains Exam Paper 5 Optional Subject – Paper I 200 3 hours
Mains Exam Paper 6 Optional Subject – Paper II 200 3 hours
Mains Exam Paper 7 Odia Language 100 3 hours
Interview – Personality Test 100 –

Table 2: OPSC OAS Exam 2024: Optional Subjects

Subject Paper I Paper II
Agriculture Agricultural Economics Agricultural Production and Farm Management
Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science Animal Nutrition and Physiology Animal Genetics and Breeding
Anthropology Social Anthropology Cultural Anthropology
Botany Plant Physiology and Biochemistry Plant Ecology and Taxonomy
Chemistry Inorganic Chemistry Organic Chemistry
Civil Engineering Structural Engineering Geotechnical Engineering
Commerce and Accountancy Financial Accounting Management Accounting
Economics Microeconomics Macroeconomics
Education Educational Psychology Educational Administration and Planning
Electrical Engineering Electrical Machines Power Systems
Geography Physical Geography Human Geography
Geology Structural Geology Economic Geology
History Ancient India Medieval India
Law Constitutional Law Law of Torts
Management Principles of Management Human Resource Management
Mathematics Calculus and Differential Equations Linear Algebra and Vector Spaces
Mechanical Engineering Strength of Materials Fluid Mechanics
Philosophy Ethics Metaphysics
Physics Mechanics and Heat Electricity and Magnetism
Political Science Indian Government and Politics Comparative Politics
Psychology General Psychology Social Psychology
Sociology Social Structure and Stratification Social Change and Development
Statistics Probability and Distribution Theory Statistical Inference
Zoology Animal Diversity and Evolution Animal Physiology and Ecology

Note: The syllabus and exam pattern for the OPSC OAS Exam 2024 are subject to change. Candidates are advised to refer to the official notification for the latest information.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the eligibility criteria for the exam?

  • You must be a citizen of India.
  • You must be between 21 and 32 years of age as on January 1st of the year of the exam. Age relaxation is available for reserved categories.
  • You must possess a graduate degree from a recognized university.

2. What is the exam pattern for the exam?

  • The exam is conducted in three stages: Preliminary, Mains, and Interview.
  • The Preliminary exam is an objective type exam with two papers: General Studies and CSAT.
  • The Mains exam is a descriptive type exam with seven papers: Essay, General Studies I, II, and III, two papers for the chosen optional subject, and Odia Language.
  • The Interview is a personality test conducted by a board of experts.

3. What is the syllabus for the exam?

  • The syllabus covers a wide range of topics including current events, history, Indian polity, economics, social development, general science, geography, environment, disaster management, and Odisha specific issues.
  • The CSAT paper tests comprehension, logical reasoning, decision-making, numeracy, and data interpretation.
  • The Mains exam syllabus is detailed and covers various aspects of Indian culture, history, geography, polity, economy, social issues, ethics, governance, security, international relations, and contemporary issues.
  • You can choose one optional subject from a list of subjects offered by the commission.

4. How can I prepare for the exam?

  • Understand the syllabus thoroughly.
  • Gather relevant study material, including textbooks, reference books, and online resources.
  • Create a structured study plan.
  • Practice previous year papers to understand the exam pattern and difficulty level.
  • Consider joining coaching classes for expert guidance.
  • Stay updated with current affairs.
  • Focus on your weak areas.
  • Take regular mock tests to assess your preparation level.
  • Revise the syllabus regularly.
  • Stay motivated and focused throughout your preparation journey.

5. What are the important dates for the exam?

  • The notification for the exam is expected to be released in the first quarter of the year.
  • The application deadline is usually a few months after the notification release.
  • The Preliminary exam is usually held in the second half of the year.
  • The Mains exam is usually held a few months after the Preliminary exam.
  • The Interview is usually held after the Mains exam.

6. What are the cut-off marks for the exam?

  • The cut-off marks for the Preliminary and Mains exams are determined by the commission based on the number of vacancies, the difficulty level of the exam, and the performance of the candidates.
  • The cut-off marks for reserved categories are usually lower than the general category.

7. What is the salary and benefits for the selected candidates?

  • The salary and benefits are determined by the state government.
  • The starting salary is usually in the range of INR 56,100 to INR 1,77,500 per month.
  • Selected candidates are also eligible for various benefits, including housing, medical, and travel allowances.

8. What are the career prospects for the selected candidates?

  • The exam is a gateway to a rewarding career in the state government.
  • Selected candidates play a vital role in the administration and development of the state.
  • They have the opportunity to work in various departments, including revenue, education, health, and social welfare.
  • They can also rise to higher positions in the government hierarchy.

9. What are some tips for success in the exam?

  • Stay focused on your goal.
  • Manage your time effectively.
  • Practice regularly to improve your speed and accuracy.
  • Maintain a positive attitude.
  • Seek guidance from experienced mentors or coaching classes.
  • Stay updated with current events.
  • Take care of your health and well-being.

10. Where can I find more information about the exam?

  • The official website of the commission is the primary source of information about the exam.
  • You can also find information on various online resources, including websites, blogs, and YouTube channels.

Note: These are just some of the frequently asked questions about the exam. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the official notification and website of the commission.