The UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) conducts the Civil Services Examination, which includes the optional subject of History. The History optional paper is divided into two parts: Paper 1 and Paper 2. Each paper carries a maximum of 250 marks, making a total of 500 marks for the History optional subject.


Paper 1 primarily focuses on ancient and medieval history. It consists of four sections, each covering a specific period or theme:

1. Ancient India:
- Indus Valley Civilization
- Vedic Age
- Mauryan Empire
- Gupta Empire
- Post-Gupta Period

2. Medieval India:
- Delhi Sultanate
- Mughal Empire
- Vijayanagara and Bahmani Kingdoms
- Maratha Empire
- Sikh Empire

3. World History:
- Ancient and Medieval World
- Renaissance and Reformation
- Industrial Revolution
- World Wars
- Cold War Era

4. Modern India:
- Indian National Movement
- Socio-Religious Reforms
- Economic Impact of British Rule
- Indian Renaissance
- Constitutional Development


Paper 2 covers modern Indian history, including the freedom struggle and post-independence India. It consists of four sections:

1. Modern Indian History:
- Socio-Religious Movements
- Economic Policies and Impact
- Administrative Changes
- Social Changes
- Cultural Awakening

2. World Wars and Post-War Period:
- Causes and Consequences of World Wars
- League of Nations and United Nations
- Cold War and Non-Aligned Movement

3. Indian National Movement:
- Moderate and Extremist Phase
- Revolutionary Movements
- Peasant and Worker Movements
- Role of Women in the Freedom Struggle

4. Post-Independence India:
- Nehruvian Era
- Economic Policies and Reforms
- Political Developments
- Social Changes
- Foreign Policy


The History optional subject exam consists of two papers, each conducted for a duration of three hours. The questions are of essay-type and require analytical and critical thinking skills. The marking scheme includes both direct and indirect questions, testing the candidate's knowledge, understanding, and interpretation of historical events.

Candidates are advised to refer to previous year question papers, study material, and recommended books to prepare effectively for the UPSC History optional subject exam. Regular practice of answer writing and revision is crucial to score well in this subject.