Political Science and International Relations (PSIR) is a popular choice for UPSC aspirants due to its scoring potential and strong overlap with the General Studies (GS) syllabus.
Scoring Potential:
PSIR has consistently been recognized for its scoring potential in the UPSC CSE.
With the right preparation and understanding, candidates can score high marks in both Paper I and Paper II.
Strong Overlap with General Studies Papers
GS Paper II: Direct overlap with topics on polity and governance.
GS Papers I, III, IV: Provides useful insights for socio-economic and ethical issues in GS.
Essay Paper: PSIR aids in essay writing by offering insights on political and international issues.
Relevance to Current Affairs
Paper II, especially in the International Relations section, aligns with ongoing global and national issues.
Prepares aspirants for current affairs questions by enhancing understanding of world events and India’s role.
Holistic Preparation
The wide coverage of topics in PSIR complements the General Studies syllabus, enabling a more integrated approach to preparation across Mains papers.
Support in the Interview Stage
A strong foundation in PSIR helps aspirants articulate informed opinions during the interview, particularly on topics related to governance, policy-making, and India's foreign relations.
With its depth and versatility, PSIR is a strategic choice for UPSC CSE aspirants aiming to optimize their preparation and score well in Mains.
Paper I: Political Theory and Indian Politics, and Indian Government and Politics
Political Theory and Indian Politics
Key topics: Theories of the state, justice, equality, human rights, democracy.
This section emphasizes foundational political concepts and theories that shape political systems and governance.
Indian Government and Politics
Key topics: Indian Nationalism, the Constitution, federalism, political party systems.
Focuses on the Indian political landscape, from historical perspectives to current constitutional structures.
Paper II: Comparative Politics and International Relations, and India and the World
Comparative Politics and International Relations
Key topics: Globalization, political participation, representation, international relations theory.
Covers global political dynamics, examining political systems and comparative analyses across countries.
India and the World
Key topics: India’s foreign policy, South Asian relations, Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), UN system, major global power relations.
Focuses on India’s role in the international arena and its relationships with neighbouring regions and global institutions.
Toppers with PSIR Optional
Year
Topper's Name
All India Rank (AIR)
2015
Tina Dabi
1
2021
Ankita Agarwal
2
2021
Utkarsh Dwivedi
5
2021
Samyak S Jain
7
2022
Ishita Kishore
1
2023
Srishti Dabas
6
2023
Swati Sharma
17
Benefits of Joining PSIR Subject Classes with Mr Manoj Sharma Sir
Expert Guidance: Tathastu ICS offers a structured approach with an expert, ensuring comprehensive syllabus coverage and mastery of both Paper I and Paper II.
Quality Study Materials: Receive detailed notes to simplify complex concepts and enhance understanding.
Answer-Writing Practice: Regular Answer writing sessions and feedback help improve writing skills, essential for scoring well in Mains.
Flexible Learning: The course is available both online and offline, with recorded sessions for flexibility.
Personalized Mentorship: One-on-one sessions help clarify doubts and tailor preparation to individual needs.
PSIR Optional Course Features
Syllabus Coverage
Comprehensive and timely completion of the syllabus.
350+ hours of focused classroom teaching.
Answer Writing Practice
Integrated answer writing sessions.
Dedicated test series with personalized feedback.
Class Format
Sessions available both offline and online.
Regular class tests to track progress.
Study Materials
Detailed handouts and class notes.
Current affairs updates relevant to PSIR.
Online Validity:- 2 Years from Batch Commencement
Personalized Guidance
One-to-one interaction with experienced faculty.
Online Validity - 2 Years from Batch Commencement
Overcoming Challenges with PSIR Optional Subject
Problem
Challenge
Solution
Complex Political Theories & Concepts
Understanding complex political theories and ideologies can be overwhelming, especially for those without a strong background in political science.
Tathastu ICS simplifies complex concepts into structured lessons with step-by-step explanations, making them easier to understand and retain.
Balancing Theory with Current Affairs
PSIR requires a balance of theory and staying updated with dynamic global and national politics.
Tathastu ICS integrates current affairs into the curriculum, linking real-world events with theoretical concepts to enhance understanding.
Limited Access to Quality Study Materials
The vastness of the syllabus makes it difficult to find up-to-date, comprehensive study materials.
Tathastu ICS provides curated, regularly updated study notes for thorough preparation.
Insufficient Practice & Feedback
Without regular answer-writing practice and feedback, students struggle to develop effective exam-writing skills.
Tathastu ICS conducts regular answer-writing sessions with past year papers and provides personalized feedback to help students improve their writing.
Who Should Enrol in This Course?
This course is ideal for aspirants who:
Aim for a high-scoring optional subject with significant overlap in General Studies.
Have an interest in political theory, governance, and international relations.
Seek a structured approach with expert guidance and consistent feedback for effective preparation.
