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Exams   »   UKPSC Lower PCS Syllabus and Exam...

UKPSC Lower PCS Syllabus and Exam Pattern 2025, Download PDF

The UKPSC Lower PCS Mains 2025 is the most crucial stage in the recruitment process conducted by the Uttarakhand Public Service Commission. While the Prelims Exam is objective in nature and mainly tests quick problem-solving ability, the Mains Exam is descriptive. It requires candidates to demonstrate not only knowledge but also the ability to analyze, structure, and present ideas effectively.

Performance in the Mains exam carries significant weight because it directly determines eligibility for the Personality Test (Interview) and eventually shapes the final merit list. Hence, thorough preparation, disciplined practice, and strong answer-writing skills are essential to succeed.

UKPSC Lower PCS Syllabus

A clear understanding of the exam pattern is the first step towards smart preparation. Written Examination

The UKPSC Lower PCS Mains comprises two descriptive papers only:

  • Paper I – General Studies: 200 marks, 3 hours
  • Paper II – Essay & Drafting: 200 marks, 3 hours

Thus, the total marks for the Mains exam are 400.

To qualify, candidates must score at least 35% in the Essay & Drafting paper.

Since the Mains stage is the gateway to the interview, your performance here plays a decisive role in your overall selection.

UKPSC Lower PCS Prelims Syllabus

The UKPSC Lower PCS Syllabus includes General Studies. Candidates preparing for the exam can now check the preliminary exam syllabus from the article below.

UKPSC Lower PCS Prelims Syllabus
Subject Topics
General Science and Knowledge of Computer Operation
General understanding and application of science and computers, including day-to-day observations and experiences.
History of India and Indian National Movement
Ancient, medieval, and modern India’s political, social, economic, and cultural aspects; India’s Freedom Movement, growth of nationalism, and attainment of Independence.
Indian Polity and Economy
Indian polity, Constitution, Panchayati Raj, Community development, and broad features of Indian economy and planning.
Geography and Demography of India
Broad understanding of geographical, ecological, and socio-economic aspects and demography of India.
Current Events
Important Uttarakhand State, National, and International current events, including games.
History of Uttarakhand
Historical background (ancient, medieval, and British rule), Gorkha administration, Tehri State, role in the Freedom Movement, eminent personalities, historical sites, and movements for state formation.
Culture of Uttarakhand
Castes and tribes, religious and folk beliefs, literature, traditions, costumes, fairs, festivals, food habits, art and crafts, dances, songs, major tourist places, sports, and famous authors and poets.
Geography and Demography of Uttarakhand
Geographical setup, features of Uttarakhand Himalaya, rivers, climate, forest resources, agriculture, disaster management, population classification, density, sex ratio, and migration.
Economic, Political, and Administrative Background of Uttarakhand
Elected governments and policies, political and administrative systems, Panchayati raj, historical land management systems, revenue police, Indo-Tibetan trade, local agriculture, animal husbandry, and economic resources.

UKPSC Lower PCS Mains Syllabus

The UKPSC Lower PCS Mains 2025 is not merely a test of knowledge—it is a test of clarity, analytical ability, and communication skills. Since it is descriptive in nature, candidates need to practice structured writing, essay composition, and drafting with discipline.
By preparing systematically, focusing equally on General Studies and Uttarakhand-specific topics, and practicing mock tests and interviews, aspirants can maximize their chances of cracking the exam.
With consistency, determination, and the right strategy, success in the UKPSC Lower PCS 2025 is within reach.

UKPSC Lower PCS Mains Syllabus
Subject Topics
Language (General Hindi)
– Alphabet and Words: Letters, Vowel signs, Gender, Number, Suffix, Prefix, Parts of Speech (Noun, Pronoun, Adjective, Verb, etc.)
– Word Formation and Meaning: Synonyms, Antonyms, Homonyms, One-word substitutes, Sentences for word use, Direct, Indirect, Foreign words, Compound and Derived words
– Sentence Formation
– Unseen Passage
– Summary Writing and Explanation
– Letter Writing: Official, Semi-official, Informal, Orders, Office circular, Reports, or translation.
– Translation: English to Hindi/Hindi to English
Essay
Section A
– Literature and Culture
– Social, Political and Economic topics
– National/International related topics
– Policies related to National development, Science and Technology
– Environmental and Natural Disaster (Landslide, Flood, Drought, Earthquakes, etc.)
Section B
– Historical, Artistic and Cultural Scenario of Uttarakhand
– Social and Cultural Structure of Uttarakhand
– Environmental Protection and Disaster Management in Uttarakhand
– Role of Women in Economy and Polity of Uttarakhand and Women Empowerment
– Economic and Geographical Scenario of Uttarakhand and its Tourism. Migration problem of Uttarakhand
General Studies – First Paper
– History, Art, Culture and Society of India: Various art forms, Literature, Painting, Music, Bhakti Movement/Sufism, Social-religious movements, Indian architecture, Ancient & Medieval Indian history, Freedom movement, Partition, Post-Independence challenges
– History, Arts, Culture and Society of Uttarakhand: Prehistoric & Proto-historic background, Tribals & Communities, Dynasties & Administration, Colonial impact, Mass movements, Gandhian impact, Local traditions
– Indian Constitution, Political System & Administration: Constitution History, Features, Rights & Duties, Executive & Legislature (Union/State), Judiciary, Elections & parties, Panchayati Raj, Administrative reforms, National integration & challenges
– Political & Administrative System of Uttarakhand: Structure, Assembly, Judiciary, Parties, Local self-government, Current issues, Social schemes, National schemes, Social inclusion measures
General Studies – Second Paper
– Indian Economy: Features, National income, Sectoral composition, Human Development Index, Economic planning, Poverty, Inequality, Inflation, Agriculture & Rural development, Industry, Taxation, GST, Fiscal policy, Black economy, Foreign trade, Reforms, RBI policy, Demographics, Migration, Urbanization, Infrastructure
– Economy of Uttarakhand: GDP, Resources, Demography, Forest, Energy, Agriculture, Water, Minerals, Industry, Transport, Public finance, Education, Poverty, Health, Social welfare, Migration, Women empowerment, Major crops, Land reforms, Farmer welfare, Panchayati Raj, Banking, Tourism & Pilgrimage
Geography of India & Demography
– Physical features, Geological system, Relief/Drainage, Climate phenomena (El-Nino, La-Nina etc.), Soils, Forest, Biodiversity hotspots, Environmental/ecological problems, International boundaries & geopolitical issues, Agriculture, Mines & minerals, Energy, Industry, Transport, Civil aviation & water transport, Regional disparities, Hazards & disasters, Population distribution, Migration
Geography of Uttarakhand, Demography & Disaster Management
– Geographical setup, Himalaya origin, Physiographic divisions, Major rivers & mountains, Climate, Forest resources, Horticulture, Major crops/diversity, Irrigation, Agricultural holdings, Natural/man-made calamities, Disaster management, Water crisis/watershed, Remote area problems, Environmental movements (Chipko, statehood), Biodiversity, Population diversity, Migration
Science, Technology & Environment
– General Science, Technology, Environment: General understanding and application, Environmental issues (Air, Water, Pollution), Greenhouse effect & global warming, Ozone depletion, Forest degradation, Biotechnology principles, Nutrition, Animal/bird/plant diseases, Polymers & solutions, Environmental chemistry, Soil pollution, Life origin & evolution, Green chemistry, Genetic disorder, Physics fundamentals (Force, Energy, Light, Electricity, Magnetism, Nuclear), Computers, IT, Cyber security, E-governance
Human Values, Work Culture & Civil Service Aptitude
– Nature/Types/Characteristics of Human values, Role of family/society/education, Work Culture—concept, approaches, effective administration, Attitude, Aptitude & roles, Emotional Intelligence, Public/Civil service values & ethics, Government/private institution dilemmas, Probity, Information sharing/transparency, Contributions of Indian moral thinkers/philosophers (Gandhi, Ambedkar, Vivekananda, Tagore, Kalam), Case studies
Statistical Analysis, Graphs & Diagram
– Measures of Central Tendency, Measures of Dispersion, Data Analysis through Graphs and Diagrams, Application concepts
Current Events
– International, National, Asia, India, Uttarakhand related current affairs; games and sports

UKPSC Lower PCS Exam Pattern

The selection process includes prelims and mains exams. Candidates preparing for the exam should be aware of the detailed exam pattern and plan their study schedule.

UKPSC Lower PCS Prelims Exam Pattern

Candidates who applied should appear for the prelims exam. The preliminary exam is of a qualifying nature only. The candidates who clear the preliminary exam will be called for the mains examination.

UKPSC Lower PCS Prelims Exam Pattern
Subjects Questions Marks Duration
General Study & General Aptitude Test 150 150 02 hours

Note: Marks obtained in the Preliminary Examination shall not be added to the marks obtained in the Main written Examination for determining the merit.

UKPSC Lower PCS Mains Exam Pattern

The candidates who cleared the prelims will be called for the mains examination. The UKPSC Lower PCS Mains Exam is of a descriptive type. Candidates should score more than the minimum qualifying marks in Hindi to be considered for final selection. The merit list will be drawn based on the overall marks scored in the written exam.

UKPSC Lower PCS Mains Exam Pattern
Paper Subjects Questions Marks Duration
I Language (General Hindi) 06 100 02 hours
II Essay 02 100 02 hours
III General Studies: First Paper 20 200 03 hours
IV General Studies Second Paper 20 200 03 hours

Note : It is essential to obtain minimum 35% marks in Language (General Hindi).

Preparation Strategy for UKPSC Lower PCS Mains

The Mains stage is descriptive in nature, which means success depends not only on what you know but also on how effectively you can present it. A balanced strategy is therefore essential. Here are some key guidelines aspirants should follow:

  • Build Conceptual Clarity – Instead of memorizing facts, focus on understanding concepts thoroughly. This helps in writing analytical and well-structured answers.
  • Practice Answer Writing – Since the exam is descriptive, writing practice is the most important part of preparation. Set a timer and regularly write answers to improve speed, coherence, and presentation.
  • Work on Language & Expression – Clear, simple, and precise language makes a strong impression. Avoid complicated phrases and focus on presenting ideas in an organized manner.
  • Develop Time Management Skills – During the exam, each paper has limited time. Practicing within a strict timeframe ensures you can attempt all questions with proper balance.
  • Revision is the Key – Multiple revisions help in consolidating information and improving recall. Short notes and flowcharts can make revision faster and more effective.
  • Improve Writing Structure – Start with a strong introduction, explain points logically in the body, and conclude with a balanced summary or way forward. This enhances answer quality.
  • Stay Updated and Reflective – Regularly update your knowledge with recent developments and try to connect them with broader issues. This adds depth to your answers.
  • Take Mock Tests – Simulated practice builds exam temperament, boosts confidence, and highlights areas that need improvement before the final exam.

By following a disciplined plan, maintaining consistency, and practicing effective writing, candidates can significantly improve their chances of success in the UKPSC Lower PCS Mains.

 

Personality Test (Interview)

Candidates who clear the Mains are called for the Interview, which evaluates qualities that cannot be measured on paper.

  • Assesses confidence, communication, and administrative aptitude
  • Focuses on knowledge of current affairs, socio-economic and political issues, and Uttarakhand-specific challenges
  • Tests leadership qualities, decision-making, and presence of mind

Tip: 

Even with a strong Mains score, a weak interview performance can reduce your final ranking. Therefore, aspirants should prepare for both stages together.

FAQs

What mistakes should be avoided during preparation?

Aspirants often inquire about common pitfalls. These include neglecting Uttarakhand-specific content, lack of answer-writing practice, poor time management, and insufficient use of reliable resources.

Is there negative marking in the Mains exam?

No, there is no negative marking in the UKPSC Mains, as it is a subjective (descriptive) examination.

How are marks evaluated in the Mains exam?

Marks are awarded based on factors such as the accuracy of language, grammar, clarity of presentation, and the depth of thought and expression.

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About the Author

Hi, I’m Venkat! Welcome to the ADDA247Exams blog. With 2 years of experience, including 1 year in EdTech, I create content on National and State-level exams, covering everything from notifications to results. Having appeared for exams like APPSC Group2 Mains, IBPS, SBI Clerk Mains, and SSC CHSL DV 2020, I bring hands-on expertise to guide you through your exam prep journey.

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