'Hard Decisions' to 'Good Leaders': UPSC Essay Topics

The UPSC Civil Services Main Examination 2026 started on Friday with its essay test.

Candidates had to choose one topic from each of two sections.

Each essay was worth 125 marks and had to be 1,000 to 1,200 words long.

The eight topics asked students to think about ideas such as gratitude, nature, difficult decisions, and leadership.

The essay test lasted from 9 AM to 12 noon and was worth 250 marks in total.

Other exam papers will take place on August 22, 23, 29, and 30.

These papers include general studies, language, English, and optional subjects.

Candidates were advised to bring two recent passport-sized photographs for every exam session.