Syllabus for Indian Thinkers (Paper I):

Indian Thinkers is an important section of the Paper I syllabus for the UPSC examination. This section focuses on the prominent Indian thinkers who have made significant contributions to various fields of knowledge and thought. The key topics covered in this section are as follows:

1. Vedas and Upanishads:
- The Vedas and Upanishads are ancient Indian texts that form the foundation of Indian philosophy and thought.
- The syllabus covers the major ideas and concepts presented in these texts, such as the nature of reality (Brahman), the self (Atman), and the paths to liberation (Moksha).

2. Jainism:
- Jainism is one of the oldest religions in India, founded by Mahavira.
- The syllabus covers the basic principles of Jain philosophy, including the concepts of Ahimsa (non-violence), Anekantavada (non-absolutism), and Syadvada (the theory of conditioned predication).

3. Buddhism:
- Buddhism, founded by Gautama Buddha, is another important philosophical and religious tradition in India.
- The syllabus covers the key teachings of Buddhism, such as the Four Noble Truths, the Eightfold Path, and the concept of Nirvana.

4. Nyaya-Vaisheshika:
- Nyaya and Vaisheshika are two distinct schools of Indian philosophy that deal with logic, epistemology, and metaphysics.
- The syllabus covers the basic concepts and theories presented in these schools, including the Nyaya theory of knowledge and the Vaisheshika theory of atomism.

5. Samkhya-Yoga:
- Samkhya and Yoga are two classical schools of Indian philosophy that explore the nature of existence and methods of attaining liberation.
- The syllabus covers the fundamental principles of Samkhya, such as the theory of prakriti (primordial matter) and purusha (consciousness), as well as the Yoga philosophy of Patanjali.

6. Mimamsa-Vedanta:
- Mimamsa and Vedanta are two schools of Indian philosophy that focus on the interpretation and understanding of the Vedas.
- The syllabus covers the key concepts and ideas presented in these schools, including the Mimamsa theory of interpretation (Hermeneutics) and the Vedanta philosophy of Advaita (non-dualism) and Dvaita (dualism).

7. Modern Indian Thinkers:
- The syllabus also includes the study of modern Indian thinkers who have contributed to various domains of knowledge and thought.
- This includes philosophers, social reformers, and intellectuals such as Raja Ram Mohan Roy, Swami Vivekananda, Mahatma Gandhi, Rabindranath Tagore, and B.R. Ambedkar.

In conclusion, the Indian Thinkers section of the Paper I syllabus covers a wide range of topics, including ancient Indian texts, philosophical traditions, and modern thinkers. It aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of Indian philosophical thought and its impact on various aspects of society and culture.