The syllabus for the UPSC History Optional Subject is divided into two parts: Paper I and Paper II. Here is a detailed explanation of the scope of the syllabus for each paper:



1. Sources of Ancient Indian History:
- Archaeological sources
- Literary sources
- Foreign accounts
- Inscriptions

2. Pre-Historic Cultures in India:
- Paleolithic
- Mesolithic
- Neolithic
- Chalcolithic

3. Indus Valley Civilization:
- Origin, extent, and major features
- Indus Valley sites
- Society, economy, and culture
- Decline and legacy

4. Vedic Period:
- Rigvedic society and economy
- Later Vedic period
- Religion and philosophy
- Society, economy, and culture

5. Period of Mahajanapadas:
- Jainism and Buddhism
- Rise of Magadha and Nandas
- Persian and Greek invasions
- Mauryan Empire

6. Mauryan Empire:
- Chandragupta Maurya
- Ashoka and his policies
- Decline of the Mauryan Empire

7. Post-Mauryan Period:
- Sungas and Kanvas
- Satavahanas
- Guptas and Vakatakas
- Harsha and his times

8. Ancient Indian Art and Architecture:
- Rock-cut architecture
- Stupas
- Temples
- Paintings



1. Early Medieval India:
- Rajputs
- Cholas
- Chalukyas
- Pallavas
- Cheras
- Hoysalas
- Pandyas

2. Sultanate Period:
- Slave dynasty
- Khaljis
- Tughlaqs
- Sayyids
- Lodis

3. Mughal Empire:
- Babur
- Akbar
- Jahangir
- Shah Jahan
- Aurangzeb
- Decline of the Mughal Empire

4. Regional Kingdoms:
- Marathas
- Sikhs
- Rajputs

5. Indian Freedom Struggle:
- Revolt of 1857
- Indian National Congress
- Moderates and Extremists
- Partition of Bengal
- Home Rule Movement
- Non-Cooperation Movement
- Civil Disobedience Movement
- Quit India Movement

6. Post-Independence India:
- Integration of princely states
- Linguistic reorganization of states
- Nehruvian era
- Economic reforms
- Emergence of India as a global power

The syllabus for the UPSC History Optional Subject covers a wide range of topics from ancient Indian history to modern India. It requires a comprehensive understanding of historical events, cultures, societies, art, and architecture. Candidates are expected to analyze and interpret historical sources, evaluate different perspectives, and demonstrate critical thinking skills. A thorough study of the prescribed syllabus, along with regular practice of answer writing and revision, is crucial