Will the Optional Subject be Removed from UPSC Civil Services Examination?
As of my latest update in August 2023, there have been ongoing discussions and debates regarding the structure of the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CS). These talks mainly revolve around the potential removal of the optional subject component. However, as of now, no official decision has been made to eliminate the optional subject from the exam. Changes to examination formats typically involve extensive consultation and planning. Therefore, any updates would need to be confirmed by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) or relevant authorities.
It is highly recommended that you prepare based on the present syllabus instead of wasting time on false or speculative news. UPSC is known for giving sufficient time to candidates to compete the syllabus. Thus, focus on strengthening your basics, practicing answer writing, and taking preliminary mocks before the exams.
Current Status and Future Prospects
The debate about removing the optional subject from the UPSC Civil Services Examination has been ongoing for a long time. However, there has been no official notice regarding this, and therefore, it is highly unlikely that the optional subject will be removed in 2023 or any year in the near future. Looking at the prudent behavior of UPSC, the notification regarding this change would likely be issued at least a year in advance.
The Baswan Committee, which held a dialogue with aspirants through online polling, recommended the removal of the optional paper in 2017. Although the committee felt that languages, literature, and some social sciences subjects might lose relevance, the UPSC did not accept this recommendation. Some experts feared that the removal of the optional paper might provide a level playing field for aspirants, particularly those who find certain subjects easier whereas others are more challenging. The Alagh Committee in 2000 also suggested the removal of the optional subject from the mains, with the centrality of the Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT) being retained, as recommended by the Khanna Committee in 2010.
Implications and Expert Opinions
It is very unlikely that UPSC will remove the optional paper in 2023 or in the near future. The Baswan Committee’s recommendation did not gain traction, and the UPSC has not accepted it. Committee members believed that the optional subject paper played a crucial role in giving candidates a unique edge in their preparation, especially in subjects where resources are not uniformly available. This makes it imperative for candidates to continue preparing for the optional subjects as part of their exam strategy.
Given the historical context of UPSC's examination structure and the continuous dialogue with stakeholders, it is important for candidates to stay updated with official communications from the UPSC. The UPSC has a track record of providing enough time for candidates to prepare and compete the syllabus. Hence, candidates should focus on personal improvement, answer writing skills, and practice with relevant mock tests to ensure they are well-prepared for the exam.
As you prepare for your UPSC Civil Services Examination, keep an eye on official UPSC communications and recent news sources for any updates. While the optional subject is likely to remain a crucial part of the exam, it is always wise to adapt your preparation strategy as per the current syllabus and requirements.