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Science and Technology Important Topics for UPSC Prelims 2025

Looking for Science and Technology Important Topics for Prelims 2025? Get complete insights into the important topics for science and technology to boost your UPSC preparation.
authorImageSheetal Gaur18 Feb, 2025
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Science and Technology Important Topics

 

Science and Technology Important Topics for Prelims: Science and Technology has a vast syllabus in the UPSC syllabus, particularly in the Prelims exam. Therefore, the candidates must scrutinize Science and technology important topics for UPSC prelims to prepare well for the exam and score higher marks.

Grasping key topics in Science and Technology not only assists in the Prelims but also enriches the candidates' knowledge base for the Mains and interview stages. Here, we have provided a focused guide to help candidates prepare effectively for the Science and technology important topics for Prelims 2025.

Science and Technology in UPSC Prelims

The Science and Technology section examines candidates on their awareness of recent advancements and their applications. It covers a wide range of topics, including historical scientific achievements, especially those relevant to India. Candidates must stay updated on the latest developments in S&T such as Nobel Prize winners and their contributions to be able to solve questions in Prelims.
Themes to Prepare in Science and Technology for UPSC Prelims
Topic Description Examples
Recent Advancements Awareness of the latest developments in science and technology. AI, microRNA, Artificial neural networks, Computational protein design, etc.
Historical Achievements Significant scientific milestones, particularly those relevant to India. ISRO missions, Indian inventions
Basic IT Fundamental concepts in information technology and their applications. Software, hardware, cybersecurity
Space Technology Developments in space science and exploration, particularly by India. Chandrayaan, Mangalyaan
Computers Knowledge of computer systems, networks, and software applications. Operating systems, programming languages
Robotics Understanding the principles and applications of robotics. Industrial robots, AI in robotics
Biotechnology Innovations in biotechnology and their implications in health and agriculture. Genetic engineering, CRISPR
Intellectual Property Rights Awareness of IP rights related to inventions and innovations in science and technology. Patents, trademarks, copyrights

Science and Technology Important Topics for Prelims 2025

To streamline your study schedule for Prelims 2025, it's essential to cover the main areas and important Science and Technology topics for UPSC. Here's a detailed breakdown of the various topics within each subject area of Science and Technology for UPSC Prelims 2025:

Basic Science and Technology

Science and technology important topics for prelims 2025 include the fundamentals of Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and recent scientific discoveries and innovations.
Physics Basic concepts, recent advancements in nuclear and particle physics, and applications in daily life.
Chemistry Chemical properties, industrial applications, environmental chemistry.
Biology Human biology, biotechnology, genetics, and evolutionary studies.

Information and Communication Technology (ICT)

The important science and technology topics for UPSC for this area focus on the latest in digital technology, software developments, and their implications on society and governance.
Cyber Security Threats, cyber laws, data protection
Digital India Initiatives Government schemes for digital empowerment
Artificial Intelligence AI applications, ethics, and future prospects

Space Technology

India’s space missions, global space research milestones, satellite technology, and the importance of space technology in global navigation and surveillance.
ISRO Missions Chandrayaan, Mangalyaan, Gaganyaan, ISRO - Indian Space Research Organisation, Reusable Launch Vehicles, Vikram Sarabhai Ramjet Vs Scramjet, APJ Abdul Kalam, Vikas Engine, GSLV - Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle, PSLV - Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle, LVM3 - GSLV Mk3
Global Space Programs NASA, SpaceX, ROSCOSMOS, JAXA, and others
Satellite Technology Commercial use of Lithium-Ion battery technology, Hyperspectral imaging satellite, Water propulsion system in CubeSat, Saturn-cassini Mission, OSIRIS-Rex passed by Earth to reach asteroid Bennu, Google Lunar X Prize Competition, Communication satellites, remote sensing

Energy Resources

Understanding traditional and renewable energy resources, their uses, impacts, and future trends in energy technology.
Renewable Energy Solar, wind, and hydroelectric power advancements
Nuclear Energy Technology, safety issues, and waste management
Energy Conservation Techniques and policies for efficient energy use

Environmental Technology

Technologies for environmental monitoring, pollution control, and sustainable practices.
Sustainable Technologies Innovations in green technology
Pollution Control Technologies Air and water purification technologies
Climate Change Mitigation Technological solutions to reduce carbon footprint.

Biotechnology

The application of biotechnology in health, agriculture, and environmental conservation.
  • Genetic Engineering: GMOs, CRISPR.
  • Medical Biotechnology: Drug development, vaccines.
  • Agricultural Biotechnology: Bio-fertilizers, pest-resistant crops.

Nanotechnology

The role of nanotechnology in various sectors such as medicine, electronics, and materials science.
  • Medical Applications: Drug delivery systems, diagnostic techniques.
  • Material Science: Nano-materials, their properties and applications.
  • Electronics: Nano-devices, sensors.

Defence

  • Defence Technology and Organisations
  • Missile system and classification
  • Stealth technology and unmanned vehicles
  • Submarines and naval advancements
  • Recent developments in defence technology

Nuclear Technology

  • Nuclear Energy and Nuclear Fuels
  • Types of nuclear reactions
  • Nuclear Programme in India
  • Safety standards in Nuclear Power plants
  • Recent advancements in nuclear technology

Science and Technology Current Affairs 

  • Lymphatic Filariasis
  • Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS)
  • Biolumpivaxin
  • Cross Blood Transplant
  • Sukhoi Su-57E
  • NVS-02 Satellite
  • Kodaikanal Solar Observatory, etc.

UPSC CSE Prelims Science and Technology Weightage

Understanding the weightage of the Science and Technology section through previous UPSC CSE Prelims exams analysis can provide insight into its importance:
Year Science and Technology Weightage
2024 9
2023 5
2022 14
2021 12
2020 10
2019 7
2018 13

How to Prepare the UPSC Science and Technology Prelims Syllabus?

If you are wondering how to cover these Science and technology important topics for Prelims 2025, then make a structured plan for strategic preparation. Follow the given preparation tips to enhance your preparation and cover the Science & Technology syllabus: By focusing on these areas and following the preparation tips, candidates can effectively master the important Science and Technology topics for UPSC Prelims 2025. Consistent study and staying updated on scientific developments are crucial for success in this section. This structured approach will help students tackle the Science and Technology section effectively, equipping them with the knowledge to answer both straightforward and application-based questions accurately.

To boost your preparation, consider enrolling in PW UPSC online coaching and unlock guidance tailored to cover topics as per the Prelims syllabus.

Science and Technology Important Topics for UPSC Prelims FAQs

Is Science and Technology crucial for the UPSC Prelims?

Yes, it helps in understanding modern innovations and scientific principles affecting policies.

What are the Science and technology important topics for prelims 2025?

The important science and technology topics include Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT), and Biotechnology advancements.

What are some recommended Science and Technology books for the UPSC Prelims?

UPSC Wallah book on space technology and standard science textbooks from NCERT are recommended.

Can I skip old technology concepts and focus only on new technologies?

It's advisable to cover both as the syllabus includes foundational technologies as well as new advancements.

Is it necessary to understand all scientific formulas and calculations?

No, UPSC usually doesn't require in-depth knowledge of formulas, but understanding the basic concepts behind them is essential.
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