Punjab PCS Eligibility Syllabus Exam Pattern

The Punjab Civil Services (PCS) recruitment process for 2024 is conducted by the Punjab Public Service Commission (PPSC). The recruitment process typically involves several stages, including a preliminary examination, a main examination, and an interview. Here’s a detailed overview of the PCS recruitment process: 

  1. Notification The PPSC releases an official notification detailing the number of vacancies, eligibility criteria, important dates, and the application process. Candidates must regularly check the PPSC official website for updates. 

  2. Eligibility Criteria · Educational Qualification: Candidates must have a bachelor's degree in any discipline from a recognized university. ·
Age Limit: The age limit generally ranges from 21 to 37 years, with age relaxations for reserved categories as per government rules.
Language Proficiency: Candidates must have passed Matriculation with Punjabi as one of the subjects. 

  3. Application Process · Online Application: Candidates must apply online through the official PPSC website.
Application Form: Fill out the application form with the required details and upload necessary documents.
Application Fee: Pay the application fee as specified in the notification. 

4. Preliminary Examination ·
Objective Type: The preliminary exam consists of objective-type questions. ·
Papers: Usually includes two papers – General Studies and Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT). ·
Marks: Each paper is of 200 marks. ·
Duration: Each paper is 2 hours long. ·
Negative Marking: There will be .33 negative marking for incorrect answers. 

5. Main Examination ·
Descriptive Type: The main exam is descriptive in nature. ·
Papers: Typically consists of several papers, including Essay, General Studies (multiple papers), and Optional Subjects (two papers from the chosen optional subject). ·
Marks: Each paper is generally of 100-200 marks. ·
Duration: Each paper is usually 3 hours long. PPSC Syllabus 2024 Overview The PPSC Syllabus 2024 is important for any examination, outlining the covered topics and concepts. It offers a precise understanding of the exam’s content, allowing candidates to direct their preparation towards crucial areas and avoid spending time on irrelevant subjects. For insights into the PPSC Syllabus 2024 and vacancy details, refer to the table below, containing information about the institution, notification, and official website. PPSC Syllabus 2024 Subject Wise The PPSC Syllabus 2024 covers a diverse range of subjects, offering a comprehensive framework for the Punjab Civil Services Examination. Candidates preparing for the exam should download the PPSC Syllabus 2024 PDF for prelims and main exams. A broad understanding of the PPSC Syllabus 2024 ensures that candidates are well-prepared for the competitive examination PPSC Prelims Syllabus 2024

Subject Topics
Science States of matter, the structure of the atom, versatile nature of carbon. Acids, bases, salts, corrosion in metals, and the action of soaps. Life on Earth – evolution, marine & terrestrial life. The human body and life processes, disease – its causes & prevention, infectious diseases. Public health initiatives, mother and child health, immunization & vaccination, HIVAIDS, TB, polio, etc. Force laws of motion & gravitation, Archimedes principle. Light – reflection & refraction – concepts and applications. Electric current – concepts, and applications. Computers and telecommunication – concepts, and applications.
Political Theory & International Order The basic concepts of freedom, equality, social justice, rights & duties, citizenship, nationalism, secularism, etc. United Nations and its organs/agencies, other international organizations like the World Bank, IMF, WTO, EU, G20, BRICS, etc., and their role in World peace, trade & development.
Environmental Studies Composition and structure of the atmosphere. Solar system – heat balance & temperature. Atmospheric circulation & weather system, water cycle. Climate change – fossil fuels, greenhouse gases, renewable energy, clean development mechanism, carbon credits. Water – oceans, rivers, glaciers, lakes, groundwater, etc. Biodiversity & conservation. Soil – types, crops, food chain, etc. Pollution and toxicity etc
Indian Polity Basic features, provisions, and schedules of the Indian Constitution, key amendments. Panchayati Raj. Elections – People’s Representation Act, electoral reforms. Rise of regionalism and coalition politics. Armed challenges to the Indian state since independence.
History Of India The Indus Valley civilization. The Aryan and the Vedic age. Jainism and Buddhism. The Maurya Gupta period. The advent of Islam and the Sultanate period (political, social & cultural). The Bhakti Movement. The Mughals (political, social & cultural till Aurangzeb). The coming of the European Powers and the advent of British rule. The British Rule and the Indian National Movement (18571947) World History: The Renaissance and the Industrial Revolution in Europe. The French Revolution 1789. The Russian Revolution 1917. World Wars I & II.
Indian Economy Indian economic development (19501991) – key economic policies, public sector dominance, bank nationalization, etc. Five-year plans – key goals and main achievements. Liberalization, privatization, and globalization era since 1991 – key policies, decisions, and results. Performance of Indian economy since 1991 – Growth, fiscal & revenue deficits, trade, commerce & balance of payments, inflation, and growth of the service sector. Key challenges and responses – agriculture and food security, industrialization, poverty alleviation & employment, rural & urban infrastructure, social sector – health, education, etc
Geography Population – distribution, density, growth, and comparison. Migration – types, causes, and consequences. Human development. Human settlements. Land resources and agriculture. Water resources. Mineral and energy resources. Manufacturing industries. Planning and sustainable development in India. Transport and communication. International trade. A geographical perspective on selected issues and problems
Punjab GK a) Geography: Geographical and agroclimatic regions, rivers, water resources, sharing of waters, demographics, human development indices b) People, Society, and Culture: Major personalities in the history of Punjab, religious movements, major religions & spiritual personalities, Punjabi literature, folklore, performing arts, fine arts and crafts c) History: Sufis, saints and gurus, Lodhis and Mughals, Sikh rulers, the British period, nationalist movement in Punjab, Punjab independent India. d) Economy: Agriculture, animal husbandry, industrial & service sectors, major occupations, development & economic growth, public finance (including central state fiscal issues), public sector institutions, cooperatives, etc.

































































The PPSC Prelims 2024 is designed to assess candidates’ knowledge, aptitude, and problem-solving abilities. The PPSC Prelims Syllabus consists of two papers. Candidates are advised to thoroughly prepare for these topics to perform well in the PPSC Preliminary Examination. Additionally, staying updated with current affairs and national/international events is crucial for success in the General Studies paper. PPSC Main Syllabus 2024 The PPSC Main Exam 2024 is a comprehensive assessment covering various subjects. The examination consists of several papers, each focusing on knowledge and skills. Here’s the detailed PPSC Mains syllabus for each paper that will be asked in the exam. GENERAL STUDIES – I: HISTORY, GEOGRAPHY, AND SOCIETY Check out the PPSC Syllabus 2024 for general study I for the table mentioned below

Section Subsection Topics
1: HISTORY History of the world Events from the 18th century
Industrial revolution
World wars
Redrawing of national boundaries
Colonization and decolonization
Political philosophies: Communism, Capitalism, Socialism, etc.
Indian culture Salient Aspects of Art Forms, Literature, and Architecture
From ancient to modern times
Modern Indian History From the middle of the eighteenth century to the present
Personalities and issues
Socio-reform movements With special reference to Punjab
The Freedom Struggle Various stages and important contributors
Contributions from different parts of the country, concerning Punjab
Post Independence reorganization Consolidation within the country
Ranjit Singh’s Rise to Power Military and civil administration
Relations with the British
Annexation of Punjab Causes and consequences of the Anglo-Sikh Wars
Section 2: GEOGRAPHY Geography of Punjab Physiographic details of Punjab
Geomorphic features
Punjab’s strategic location
Crops of Punjab
Modern concepts of farming
Problems faced by agriculturists, Issues in Agriculture, Depletion of groundwater, etc.
Physical Geography Salient features of the world’s physical geography
Important geophysical features such as earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic activity
Changes in critical geographical features and flora and fauna, and the effects of such changes
Section 3: SOCIETY Role of women and women’s organization Population and associated issues
Poverty and developmental issues
Urbanization, problems, and remedies
Effects of Globalization on Indian Society
Social empowerment Communalism, regionalism & secularism
Ethics and Society Essence, dimensions of Ethics
Determinants and consequences of Ethics in human actions
Ethics in Private and public relationship
GENERAL STUDIES– II: INDIAN CONSTITUTION & POLITY, GOVERNANCE, AND INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS Check out the PPSC Syllabus 2024 for general study II for the table mentioned below
Section Subsection Topics
Section 1: INDIAN CONSTITUTION & POLITY Indian Constitution Historical underpinnings Evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions, and basic structure
Functions and Responsibilities of the States and Union Issues devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein
Separation of powers between various organs
Comparison of the Indian constitutional scheme with that of other countries
Parliament and State Legislatures Functioning, structure, powers & privileges, and issues arising out of these
Structure, organization, and functioning of the Executive and the Judiciary Ministries and Departments of the Government, pressure groups, and formal associations
Role in the Polity
Salient Features of the Representation of People Act
Appointment to various Constitutional posts Powers, functions, and responsibilities of various Constitutional Bodies
District Administration Evolution of District Administration
Panchayati Raj Institutions and Urban Local Bodies
Section 2: GOVERNANCE Statutory, quasijudicial, and regulatory bodies
Government Policies and Interventions for Development Design and implementation, Development processes, and the role of NGOs, SHGs, donors, charities, institutional and other stakeholders
Important Aspects of Governance Transparency and accountability
E-governance: Applications, models, successes, limitations, and potential
Citizens charters, transparency & accountability, and institutional and other measures
Values and Ethics in Governance Ethical concerns and dilemmas in government and private institutions
Strengthening ethical and moral values in governance
Laws, rules, regulations, and conscience as sources of ethical guidance
Ethical issues in international relations and funding
Probity in Governance Concept of Governance, Philosophical basis of governance and probity
Corporate governance, Information sharing and transparency in government
Right to Information, Codes of Ethics, Codes of Conduct, Citizen’s Charters
Utilization of public funds, challenges of corruption
Section 3: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS India and its Neighbourhood Relations
Bilateral, regional, and global groupings and agreements Involving India or affecting India’s interests
Effect of Policies and Politics of Developed and Developing Countries On India’s interests
Important International institutions, agencies, and fora Their structure and mandate
GENERAL STUDIES– III: ECONOMY, STATISTICS, AND SECURITY ISSUES Check out the PPSC Syllabus 2024 for general study III for the table mentioned below
Section Subsection Topics
Section 1: Indian Economy Issues relating to planning, sustainable development Inclusive growth and issues arising from it
Government Budgeting
Major crops, cropping patterns In various parts of the country
Storage, different types of irrigation and irrigation systems
Transport and marketing of agricultural produce, Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies, and minimum support prices
Technology missions, the economics of animal rearing
Public Distribution System Objectives, functioning, limitations, revamping; issues of buffer stocks and food security
Food processing and related industries Location, scope and significance, upstream and downstream requirements, supply chain management
Land Reforms In India Effects of Liberalization on the Economy
Infrastructure Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways, etc; Investment models
Human Resource Development Importance of Human Capital in Economic Development
Importance of Human Capital in Economic Development
Nature, types, and Problems of Unemployment in India Skill Development and Demographic Dividend; Trends of Employment in India
Punjab Economy Planning: Various aspects of developmental planning, Infrastructure, and Industry
Section 2: Statistical analysis, diagrams, and graphs This part will test the candidate’s ability to draw conclusions from information presented in statistical, graphical, or diagrammatical form and interpret the same
Section 3: Issues Related to Security Linkages Between the Development and Spread of Extremism In creating challenges to internal security
Role of External, State, and nonState Actors
Basics of cyber security money laundering and prevention
Security challenges and their management Linkages of organized crime with terrorism
GENERAL STUDIES – IV: SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY, ENVIRONMENT, PROBLEM SOLVING & DECISION MAKING Check out the PPSC Syllabus 2024 for general study IV for the table mentioned below
Section Sub-Section Topic
Section 1: Science and Technology Science and Technology
Achievements of Indians in Science & Technology Developments and Applications of Science and Technology and their Effects on everyday life Indigenization of technology and development of new technology
Recent developments in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, robotics, nanotechnology, etc. Progress of Agricultural Science and its Impact
Issues relating to intellectual property rights Veterinary and Animal Sciences: Latest developments
Modern Trends in Life Sciences
Introduction to Biotechnology and its Applications Common Infections and Preventive Measures; Preventive Measures during Outbreaks
Introduction to and Applications of Genetic Engineering & Stem Cell Research
Human Diseases and Microbial Infections
Section 2: Environment Conservation, environmental pollution and Degradation Issues related to Climate change; environmental impact assessment
Water Management Issues in India; Present Scenario, Methods, and Importance of Water Conservation
Definition, nature, types, and Classification of Disasters
Natural Hazards Floods, landslides, earthquakes, tsunamis, etc.
Risk reduction and mitigation measures
Section 3: Situations in Civil Service Problem Solving and Decision Making Tackling situations of Natural disasters/ Major Accidents/ Law and order Controlling riots, Handling public protests and dharnas, Land Acquisition and Rehabilitation, Designing Projects, Implementation of National Flagship Schemes/ Programmes, Public-Private partnerships in effective service delivery, Managing and financing Municipal services.
Conservation of natural resources: water, forests, etc.
Pollution control, Planning, and target
Reviving a lossmaking PSU achievement
Empowerment of vulnerable sections of society
Gender sensitization and women empowerment
Improving Education and Enhancing Skill Development
Urban settlement: Slums and Housing issues, Managing Issues related to Urban/Rural drinking water supply and sanitation, etc.




































































Subjects No of Questions Marks for each Question Total Marks
General Studies 100 2 marks 200 marks
Civil Services Aptitude Test(CSAT) 80 2.5 marks 200 marks
PPSC Prelims Exam Pattern The PPSC Mains Exam Pattern consists of two sections: General Studies and Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT). The General Studies section contains 100 questions, each with 2 marks, totaling 200. CSAT includes 80 questions, each valued at 2.5 marks, amounting to 200 marks.
Papers Subject Name Maximum Marks Duration
Paper I Punjabi (in Gurumukhi Script) Compulsory 100 marks 3 hours
Paper II English Compulsory 100 marks 3 hours
Paper III Essay 150 marks 3 hours
Paper IV General Studies Paper 1 (History, Geography, and Society) 250 marks 3 hours
Paper V General Studies Paper 2 (Indian Constitution & Polity, Governance and International Relations) 250 marks 3 hours
Paper VI General Studies Paper 3 (Economy, Statistics, and Security Issues) 250 marks 3 hours
Paper VII General Studies Paper 4 (Science & Technology, Environment, Problem-solving & Decision-Making) 250 marks 3 hours
Total 1500 marks
PPSC Interview 2024 The PPSC interview round is a crucial stage in the selection process. After successfully clearing the Preliminary and Main exams, candidates proceed to the interview round. Among the shortlisted candidates, only three are selected per vacancy to appear for the interview. This round carries a significant weight of 150 marks, demanding candidates demonstrate their knowledge, communication skills, and overall suitability for the role. Securing a minimum of 45% marks in the interview is essential for candidates to be considered eligible for appointment.
Aspect Details
Eligibility After clearing Prelims and Main exams
Candidates called Three per vacancy
Interview weightage 150 marks
6. Interview · Personality Test: Candidates who qualify the main examination are called for a personality test/interview. ·
Marks: The interview is usually of 150 marks. 7. Final Selection · Merit List: The final selection is based on the combined marks obtained in the main examination and the interview. · Document Verification: Shortlisted candidates undergo document verification to confirm their eligibility. Important Tips · Syllabus: Study the detailed syllabus provided in the official notification. · Previous Papers: Practice previous years' question papers and take mock tests. · Current Affairs: Stay updated with current affairs, especially related to Punjab and India. · Revision: Regularly revise all subjects and focus on weak areas. Important Dates Keep an eye on the PPSC official website for the announcement of important dates related to the application process, exam dates, and result declarations. For the most accurate and updated information, regularly visit the PPSC official website.

Fri Jul 26, 2024



Rojgaar Punjab