PSIR Optional
Political Science and International Relations (PSIR)
Why Choose PSIR as an Optional :
PSIR Optional
Political Science and International Relations (PSIR) is a prominent optional subject offered by UPSC for the mains exam. It assesses a student’s ability to comprehend the historical evolution of the subject, emphasizing understanding ideological thought processes and imbuing the spirit of pioneers in the field.
Unlike General Studies (GS), which focuses on factual content, the PSIR optional paper demands conceptual clarity, theoretical understanding, and knowledge of ideological dimensions with historical context.
PSIR is a popular choice among successful UPSC candidates, including recent topper Ishita Kishore (AIR 1, UPSC-CSE 2022). A strong foundation in Political Science is crucial for a bureaucrat to maintain non-partisanship, understand political climates, and grasp the behavioral patterns of political leaders, earning respect from diverse entities, including the public.
Education: Master of Science, Hertfordshire University, U.K LLB,University college of Osmania University Experience : 10 years of teaching experience
About the Faculty :
Santhosh Rao Menneni, with a decade of experience in UPSC teaching, is renowned for his expertise in Indian Polity, International Relations, Social Issues, Governance, and Current Affairs. His rigorous approach and student-centric teaching have mentored many successful aspirants. With five years of research in PSIR, he brings valuable insights to the course.
Course Design :
The course caters to beginners, introducing them to Political Science theories for the first time. It extensively covers the theories of political science pioneers like Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, offering detailed classes, deliberations, and handout support—elements often lacking in current academic preparations for UPSC.
Addressing Paper 1 :
The course provides in-depth exposure to political science theories propounded by key figures, enhancing understanding through detailed classes, handouts, and discussions.
Layout of the Course and Classroom Learning :
Scheduled over 3.5 to 4 months, classes are held five days a week, mainly in the morning, lasting 2-2.5 hours. The sessions involve discussions, deliberations, and note dictations to facilitate effective learning.
Reference Books :
The institute and faculty refer to foundational books by political science pioneers to establish a robust understanding. Works by Plato, Aristotle, Chanakya, OP Gauba, Subrata Mukherjee, Sushila Ramaswamy, Andrew Heywood, and George Holland Sabine are incorporated into the curriculum, with extracts provided in handouts.
Discussions on Previous Year Questions:
Critical analysis and discussions on previous year questions enhance students’ understanding, preparing them comprehensively for the UPSC examination.
Choose PSIR as your optional with EKAM IAS Academy, led by expert faculty, for a well-structured and insightful journey into the realm of Political Science and International Relations.
PSIR OPTIONAL