Introduction
The Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) conducts the State Service Examination, also known as the Maharashtra Rajyaseva Pariksha. This prestigious exam is divided into three stages: Preliminary, Mains, and Interview. Clearing each stage is essential to progress to the next level of the examination. We will explore the latest changes in the MPSC syllabus and exam pattern, as well as provide a detailed analysis of the syllabus for both the Preliminary and Mains exams.
Changes in MPSC Syllabus
The MPSC recently announced significant changes in the Mains syllabus. The revised exam pattern is now more descriptive in nature and closely resembles the pattern of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exam. The MPSC Mains exam will now consist of nine papers instead of six, with a total of 1,750 marks instead of 800. In the new pattern, the marks obtained in the two language papers will no longer be included in the merit scoring. Now focused on qualification.The remaining seven compulsory papers include one essay paper, four general studies papers, and two papers on one optional subject chosen from a list of 26 subjects.
Changes in MPSC Exam Pattern
Apart from the changes in the syllabus, the MPSC has also made alterations to the exam pattern. Previously, there was a 1/3rd negative marking for every incorrect answer in the Objective Type Question Papers. However, the commission has now introduced a negative marking of 25% or 1/4th of the total marks for each wrong answer.
MPSC Exam Pattern (Revised)
To understand the MPSC exam pattern, let’s take a look at the three stages of the examination: Prelims, Mains, and Interview.
Preliminary Exam Pattern
The MPSC Preliminary Exam consists of two papers, both of which are objective in nature. Both papers are compulsory and have a duration of two hours each. Here are the details of the Prelims exam:
| Paper No. | No. of Questions | Total Marks | Standard | Medium | Duration | Nature of Paper |
| Paper I | 100 | 200 | Degree | English & Marathi | 2 hours | Objective |
| Paper II | 80 | 200 | Mix of Degree and School (depends on topic) | English & Marathi | 2 hours | Objective |
It’s important to note that there is negative marking for incorrect answers in the Preliminary Exam. For every incorrect answer, the candidate will be penalized 1/4th of the marks allocated to that question. If a candidate provides two options as answers for a question, they will attract a negative marking of 25% of the total marks assigned to that question. However, questions on decision making in Paper II do not attract negative marks if answered incorrectly. Both Paper I and II are counted for the merit ranking in order to qualify for the MPSC Mains exam.
Mains Exam Pattern (Revised)
The MPSC Mains exam has undergone significant changes in its pattern. The written examination carries a total of 1,750 marks, divided into nine question papers. The interview and personality test hold a weightage of 275 marks. Here is the detailed exam pattern of the MPSC Rajyaseva Mains exam:
| Subject | Marks & Time Duration | Standard | Medium | (Qualifying with 25% marks) |
| Paper 1 – Marathi | 300 Marks; 3 Hours | Matriculation | Marathi | Yes |
| Paper 2 – English | 300 Marks; 3 Hours | Matriculation | English | Yes |
| Paper 3 – Essay | 250 Marks; 3 Hours | Graduate | Marathi/ English | No |
| Paper 4 – General Studies -1 | 250 Marks; 3 Hours | Graduate | Marathi/ English | No |
| Paper 5 – General Studies -2 | 250 Marks; 3 Hours | Graduate | Marathi/ English | No |
| Paper 6 – General Studies -3 | 250 Marks; 3 Hours | Graduate | Marathi/ English | No |
| Paper 7 – General Studies -4 | 250 Marks; 3 Hours | Graduate | Marathi/ English | No |
| Paper 8 – Optional Subject Paper No.- 1 | 250 Marks; 3 Hours | Graduate | Marathi/ English | No |
| Paper 9 – Optional Subject Paper No.- 2 | 250 Marks; 3 Hours | Graduate | Marathi/ English | No |
Candidates must choose the medium of answering the papers at the time of submitting the online application for the Main examination. The question papers will be set in both Marathi and English languages, except for language papers, Marathi literature, and subjects for which English has been indicated as the medium.
Interview
Candidates who clear the Mains exam are summoned for the MPSC interview. In this round, a panel of the MPSC board assesses the candidate’s suitability for an administrative career through a personal discussion. The interview evaluates not only the candidate’s knowledge but also their attributes such as aptitude, presence of mind, and communication skills.
MPSC Prelims Syllabus
The MPSC Preliminary Exam covers a wide range of topics. Let’s examine the paper syllabi. Paper I (200 marks)
- Latest state, national, and global events.
- History of India and the Indian National Movement, with some weightage given to Maharashtra.
- Maharashtra, India, and World Geography – Physical, Social, and Economic Geography of Maharashtra, India, and the World.
- India and Maharashtra – Polity and Governance, including the Constitution, Political System, Panchayati Raj, Urban Governance, Public Policy, and Rights issues.
- Explore economic and social development, encompassing sustainability, poverty, inclusion, demographics, and social sector initiatives.
- Environmental Ecology, Biodiversity, and Climate Change Overview.
- General Science.
Paper II (200 marks)
- Comprehension.
- Interpersonal skills, including communication skills.
- Logical reasoning and analytical ability.
- Decision-making and problem-solving.
- General mental ability.
- Basic numeracy and data interpretation.
- Marathi and English language comprehension skills.
For a detailed analysis of the Prelims syllabus, refer to the official MPSC Prelims Syllabus PDF.
MPSC Mains Syllabus
The MPSC Mains exam consists of nine papers, including language papers, general studies papers, an essay paper, and optional subjects. Explore each paper’s syllabus.
Paper I – Marathi (300 Marks)
This paper tests candidates’ comprehension, precis writing, usage and vocabulary, and short essays. It is of qualifying nature, and the marks obtained in this paper will not be counted for ranking.
Paper II – English (300 Marks)
Similar to Paper I, this paper assesses candidates’ comprehension, precis writing, usage and vocabulary, and short essays. It is also of qualifying nature.
Paper III – Essay (250 Marks)
Candidates might have to write essays on all sorts of stuff.The essay paper evaluates their ability to keep close to the subject, organize ideas, and write concisely.
Paper IV – General Studies 1 (250 Marks)
This paper covers Indian Heritage and Culture, History and Geography of the World and Society, with some weightage given to Maharashtra. Topics include Indian culture, modern Indian history, the Freedom Struggle, post-independence consolidation, world history, Indian society, and more.
Paper V – General Studies 2 (250 Marks)
This paper focuses on Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, and International relations, with some weightage given to Maharashtra. It covers Indian Constitution, Parliament and State Legislatures, executive and judiciary, government policies, welfare schemes, international relations, and more.
Paper VI – General Studies 3 (250 Marks)
The topics of this paper include Technology, Economic Development, Biodiversity, Environment, Security, and Disaster Management, with some weightage given to Maharashtra. It covers the Indian economy, inclusive growth, science and technology, environmental conservation, disaster management, internal security, and more.
Paper VII – General Studies 4 (250 Marks)
This paper focuses on Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude. It assesses candidates’ attitude, approach to integrity, problem-solving skills, and decision-making abilities. The topics include ethics and human interface, attitude, aptitude, emotional intelligence, moral thinkers, and more.
Paper VIII – Optional Paper 1 (250 Marks) & Paper IX – Optional Paper 2 (250 Marks)
Candidates can choose one optional subject from a list of 26 subjects. The subjects include Agriculture, Anthropology, History, Law, Mathematics, Sociology, and more. Each paper carries 250 marks.
For a detailed analysis of the Mains syllabus, refer to the official MPSC Mains Syllabus PDF.
Frequently Asked Questions about MPSC Syllabus
Q1: Can the MPSC exam be taken in the English language?
Yes, aspirants can choose either English or Marathi to write their exams in MPSC.
Q2: What is the difference between UPSC and MPSC?
UPSC stands for Union Public Service Commission, which recruits for Civil Services at the national level. On the other hand, MPSC stands for Maharashtra Public Service Commission, which recruits for the state services in Maharashtra.
For more information about other state service examinations, you can refer to the relevant links provided below.
Conclusion
The MPSC State Service Examination is a highly competitive exam that requires thorough preparation. Understanding the latest changes in the syllabus and exam pattern is crucial for success. This comprehensive guide has provided a detailed analysis of the MPSC syllabus, including the Preliminary and Mains exams. By following this guide and adopting a strategic approach to your preparation, you can increase your chances of cracking the MPSC exam and achieving your career goals. Good luck!