Science and Technology in UPSC: Key Areas Every Aspirant Must Master

Science and Technology in UPSC: Key Areas Every Aspirant Must Master By Indus IAS Academy, Bangalore

Science and Technology (S&T) is a dynamic and high-scoring segment in the UPSC Civil Services Examination, especially in General Studies Paper III (Mains) and Prelims. It tests aspirants on their understanding of current scientific developments and their relevance to India and the world. At Indus IAS Academy, we emphasize a practical, current-affairs-driven approach to mastering this subject. Here’s a breakdown of the key areas you should focus on for UPSC preparation.

1. Space Technology

• ISRO missions: Chandrayaan, Gaganyaan, Aditya-L1, etc.

• Global space agencies: NASA, ESA, CNSA collaborations

• Satellites: Types, applications (communication, remote sensing, navigation)

• Space policies and private sector participation

2. Defence Technology

• DRDO developments: Missiles (Agni, Prithvi), UAVs, radars

• Strategic systems: Nuclear deterrence, Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD)

• Recent deals and indigenous defence production (Make in India in Defence)

• Hypersonic and AI-based warfare tech

3. Biotechnology

• Genetic engineering, CRISPR, genome sequencing

• Applications in agriculture (GM crops), health (vaccines, diagnostics)

• Ethical issues and regulatory mechanisms (e.g., GEAC, ICMR guidelines)

• India's biotechnology policy and Biotech Parks

4. Information and Communication Technology (ICT)

• Developments in AI, Blockchain, Quantum Computing, 5G, Internet of Things (IoT)

• Cybersecurity: CERT-In, cyber laws, threats, and data protection

• Digital India, Aadhaar, e-Governance initiatives

• Startups and digital innovation in India

5. Nanotechnology

• Basics: Nanomaterials, properties and uses

• Applications in medicine, environment, agriculture, and energy

• Government schemes promoting nano R&D in India

6. Nuclear Technology

• Nuclear reactors in India: Types, locations, safety aspects

• India's nuclear policy: Civil nuclear agreements, NSG, IAEA safeguards

• Atomic energy for development and clean energy transition

7. Energy and Environment Technology

• Renewable energy: Solar, wind, tidal, hydrogen energy

• India’s National Solar Mission, International Solar Alliance (ISA)

• Green hydrogen and carbon capture technologies

• Sustainable development goals (SDGs) and India's climate tech initiatives

8. Robotics, Drones & Autonomous Tech

• Applications in agriculture, healthcare, disaster management, logistics

• Policy frameworks like Drone Rules 2021

• AI-based automation and its socio-economic impacts

9. Medical Science and Health Innovations

• COVID-19 technologies: Vaccine development, genome sequencing

• Public health innovations: Telemedicine, health apps

• India's pharma and vaccine production capability

• National health missions and AI in healthcare

10. Research & Development and Government Initiatives

• Scientific institutions: ISRO, DRDO, CSIR, BARC, etc.

• National Science, Technology, and Innovation Policy (STIP)

• Budget allocations and focus areas

• Role of science in Atmanirbhar Bharat

Approach to Study Science & Tech for UPSC

• Focus on current affairs more than theoretical concepts

• Read PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Science Reporter

• Follow government press releases and institutional websites

• Use NCERTs for basic understanding

• Practice PYQs to understand the trend

Science and Technology is not just a scoring area but a reflection of how India adapts to the future. At Indus IAS Academy, we ensure that our students are not only informed but also trained to analyze S&T topics critically from a UPSC perspective. A smart approach with real-world examples and government initiatives can make this section your strength.

Stay curious. Stay updated. Crack UPSC with confidence!

Mohan Krishna M N, Indus IAS Academy