UGC NET Political Science Syllabus 2024
According to information released by various educational institutions, Political Science is among the top five areas of study that is approached by students undertaking the UGC NET Exam designed for individuals wishing to become Lecturers, Assistant Professors, or Junior Research Fellows in any degree-awarding institutions within India. Six hundred marks are allocated to Paper II, which comprises of 100 multiple-choice questions on any one of the chosen subjects and two marks are assigned to each of the questions in order to test the candidate’s knowledge of Political Science.
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UGC NET Political Science Notes
Paper 1 is also designed to help evaluate a person’s basic knowledge concerning some crucial areas in United Nations Political Science Concepts, relevant theories and methodologies. The UGC NET JRF Political Science syllabus should guide the candidates in organizing their study plans since they will know what to emphasize most in order to pass the examination.
In order to view how the UGC NET Political Science syllabus is arranged, and to go ahead and download its PDF version, please go through the detailed guide given below. This syllabus comes in handy in that it outlines the preparation process making it easier for candidates to pinpoint the major areas of concern in Political Science.
UGC NET Political Science Syllabus Overview: Key Highlights & Exam Pattern
Before diving into the detailed UGC NET Political Science syllabus, let’s first review the exam pattern and essential points for quick reference:
- Exam Structure: The UGC NET Exam is divided into two papers. Paper I is common for all candidates and assesses teaching and research aptitude, while Paper II is subject-specific.
- Political Science Focus: For Political Science candidates, Paper II consists of 100 questions, each carrying 2 marks, designed to evaluate core knowledge in the field.
- Key Topics: The syllabus covers a range of topics, including political theories, comparative politics, international relations, and political institutions, along with other critical areas within Political Science.
- Preparation Tip: Understanding the syllabus thoroughly helps candidates focus on high-priority areas and streamline their preparation efforts.
Now, let’s delve into the comprehensive syllabus for UGC NET Political Science.
UGC NET Political Science Syllabus Overview: Key Highlights & Exam Pattern |
Exam Name: | UGC NET (University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test) |
Conducting Body: | National Testing Agency (NTA) |
Subject: | Political Science |
Mode of Exam: | Online – CBT (Computer-Based Test) |
Exam Duration: | 180 minutes (3 hours) |
Exam Structure and Marks Distribution: |
Papers: | Paper 1: Teaching & Research Aptitude (General) Paper 2: Political Science (Subject-specific) |
Total Marks: | Paper 1 – 100 marks Paper 2 – 200 marks |
Total Questions: | Paper 1: 50 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) Paper 2: 100 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) |
Marking Scheme: | +2 marks for each correct answer No negative marking for incorrect answers |
UGC NET Political Science Syllabus 2024
UGC NET Political Science Syllabus 2024 The candidates seeking to take UGC NET in Political Science, have to prepare according to the NTA UGC NET political science syllabus, which encompasses a wide range of topics. In addition to the main topics, aspirants need to note contemporary issues, especially those related to politics, social phenomenon and world events. The student must have good knowledge of the central topics and constant practice of revision in order to be able to obtain a satisfactory level in the exam.
Key Topics for UGC NET Political Science Preparation:
- Political Theory
- Indian Political Thought
- Political Institutions in India
- International Relations
- India’s Foreign Policy
- Public Administration
UGC NET Political Science Syllabus 2024
Now, let us proceed to analyze parts of UGC NET Political Science for UGC NET syllabus in more detail, unit by unit.
Unit 1: Political Theory
Here is a comprehensive outline of the topics discussed in Unit 1 under the UGC Net Political Science Syllabus.
- Concepts: Liberty, Equality, Justice, Rights, Democracy, Power, Citizenship
- Political Traditions: Liberalism, Conservatism, Socialism, Marxism, Feminism, Ecologism, Multiculturalism, Postmodernism
Unit 2: Political Thought
Here is a comprehensive outline of the topics discussed in Unit 2 under the UGC Net Political Science Syllabus.
- Confucius, Plato, Aristotle, Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Hegel, Mary Wollstonecraft, John Stuart Mill, Karl Marx, Gramsci, Hannah Arendt, Frantz Fanon, Mao Zedong, John Rawls
Unit 3: Indian Political Thought
Here is a comprehensive outline of the topics discussed in Unit 3 under the UGC Net Political Science Syllabus.
- Dharamshastra, Kautilya, Aggannasutta, Barani, Kabir, Pandita Ramabai, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Swami Vivekanand, Rabindranath Tagore, M.K Gandhi, Sri Aurobindo, Periyar E. V. Ramasamy, Muhammad Iqbal, M.N.Roy, V D Savarkar, Dr. B.R.Ambedkar, J L Nehru, Ram Manohar Lohia,Jaya Prakash Narayan, Deendayal Upadhyaya
Unit 4: Comparative Political Analysis
Here is a comprehensive outline of the topics discussed in Unit 4 under the UGC Net Political Science Syllabus.
- Approaches: Institutional, Political Culture, Political Economy and New Institutionalism, Comparative Methods
- Colonialism and decolonization: Forms of colonialism, anti-colonial struggles, and decolonization Nationalism: European and non-European
- State theory: Debate over the nature of the state in capitalist and socialist societies, post-colonial state, welfare state, globalization and nation-states
- Political regimes: Democratic (Electoral, Liberal, Majoritarian and Participatory) and non-democratic regimes (Patrimonialism, Bureaucratic authoritarianism, Military dictatorship, Totalitarianism, and fascist)
- Constitutions and Constitutionalism: Forms of constitutions, rule of law, judicial independence and liberal constitutionalism, emergency powers and the crisis of constitutionalism. Democratization: democratic transition and consolidation
- Development: Underdevelopment, Dependency, Modernization, World Systems Theory, development and democracy
- Structures of Power: Ruling class, power elites, democratic elitism
- Actor and Processes: Electoral Systems, Political Parties and Party System, Interest groups, Social movements, new social movements, Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and civil society campaigns, Revolutions.
Unit 5: International Relations
Here is a comprehensive outline of the topics discussed in Unit 5 under the UGC Net Political Science Syllabus.
- Approaches to the study of International Relations: Idealism, Realism, Structural Marxism, Neoliberalism, Neorealism, Social Constructivism, Critical International Theory, Feminism, Postmodernism
- Concepts: State, state system and non-state actors, Power, Sovereignty, Security: traditional and non-traditional
- Conflict and Peace: Changing Nature of Warfare, Weapons of mass destruction, deterrence, conflict resolution, conflict transformation
- United Nations: Aims, Objectives, Structure, and Evaluation of the Working of UN, Peace and Development perspectives, Humanitarian intervention. International law, International Criminal Court, Political Economy of IR, Globalization, Global governance and Bretton Woods system, North-South Dialogue, WTO, G-20, BRICS
- Regional Organizations: European Union, African Union, Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, ASEAN
- Contemporary Challenges: International terrorism, Climate change, and Environmental Concerns, Human Rights, Migration and Refugees, Poverty and Development, Role of Religion, Culture, and Identity Politics
Unit 6: India’s Foreign Policy
Here is a comprehensive outline of the topics discussed in Unit 6 under the UGC Net Political Science Syllabus.
- Perspectives on India’s Foreign Policy: India’s Identity as postcolonial, development, rising power and as emerging political economy
- Continuity and change in India’s Foreign Policy: Principles and determinants, Non-Alignment movement: historical background and relevance of Non Aligned Movement, India’s Nuclear Policy
- India’s relations with major powers: USA, USSR/Russia, People’s Republic of China
- India’s Engagement with the multipolar world: India’s relations with European Union, BRICS, ASEAN, Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, African Union, Southern African Development Community, Gulf Cooperation Council
- India’s relations with the neighborhood: SAARC, Gujaral doctrine, Look East/ Act East, Look West
- India’s Negotiation Strategies in International Regimes: The United Nations, World Trade Organisation, International Monetary Fund, Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
- Contemporary Challenges: Maritime security, energy security, environmental security, migrants and refugees, water resources, international terrorism, cyber security
Unit 7: Political Institutions in India
Here is a comprehensive outline of the topics discussed in Unit 7 under the UGC Net Political Science Syllabus.
- Making of the Indian Constitution: Colonialism heritage and the contribution of Indian National Movement to the making of the Indian Constitution
- Constituent Assembly: Composition, Ideological Moorings, Constitutional Debates
- Philosophy of the Constitution: Preamble, Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles
- Constitutionalism in India: Democracy, Social Change, National Unity, Checks and Balances, Basic Structure Debate, Constitutional Amendments
- Union Executive: Structure, Role and Functioning, Parliamentary Committees
- Union Parliament: The United Nations, World Trade Organisation, International Monetary Fund, Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
- Judiciary: Supreme Court, High Court, Judicial Review, Judicial Activism, Judicial Reform.
- Executive and Legislature in the States: Governor, Chief Minister, State Legislature
- Federalism in India: Strong Centre Framework, Asymmetrical Federal Provisions and Adaption, Role of Intergovernmental Coordination Mechanisms, Inter-State Council, Emerging Trends.
- Electoral Process and Election Commission of India: Conduct of Elections, Rules, Electoral Reforms
- Local Government Institutions: Functioning and reforms
- Constitutional and Statutory Bodies: Comptroller and Auditor General, National Commission for Scheduled Castes, National Commission for Scheduled Tribes, National Commission for Human Rights, National Commission for Women, National Commission for Minorities.
Unit 8: Political Processes in India
Here is a comprehensive outline of the topics discussed in Unit 8 under the UGC Net Political Science Syllabus.
- State, Economy and Development: Nature of Indian State, Development Planning model, New Economic Policy, Growth and Human Development
- Process of globalization:social and economic implications
- Identity Politics: Religion, Tribe, Caste, Region, Language
- Social Movements: Dalit, Tribal, Women, Farmers, labour
- Civil Society Groups: Non-Party Social Formations, Non-Governmental Organisations, Social Action Groups
- Regionalization of Indian Politics: Reorganization of Indian States, States as Political and Economic Units, Sub-State Regions, Regional disparities, Demand for the New States
- Gender and Politics in India: Issues of Equality and Representation
- Ideology and Social basis of Political Parties: National Parties, State Parties
- Electoral Politics: Participation, Contestation, Representation, Emerging trends
Unit 9: Public Administration
Here is a comprehensive outline of the topics discussed in Unit 9 under the UGC Net Political Science Syllabus.
- Public Administration: Meaning and evolution, public and private administration Approaches: System Theory, Decision Making, Ecological Approach
- Public administration theories and concepts: Scientific Management Theory, Rational Choice theory, New Public Administration, Development Administration, Comparative Public Administration, New Public Management, changing nature of Public Administration in the era of liberalization and Globalization
- Theories and Principles of Organization: Scientific Management Theory, Bureaucratic Theory, Human Relations Theory
- Managing the organization: Theories of leadership and motivation
- Organizational Communication: Theories and Principles, Chester Bernard Principles of Communication, Information Management in the organization
- Managing Conflict in the Organization: Mary Parker Follett
Unit 10: Governance and Public Policy in India
Here is a comprehensive outline of the topics discussed in Unit 10 under the UGC Net Political Science Syllabus.
- Governance: Governance, good governance and democratic governance, role of state, civil society and individuals
- Accountability and Control: Institutional mechanism for checks and balances, legislative control over executive, administrative and budgetary control, control through parliamentary committees, judicial control over legislature and executive, administrative culture, corruption and administrative reforms
- Institutional mechanisms for good governance: Right to Information, Consumer Protection Act, Citizen Charter, Grievance redress system: Ombudsman, Lokpal, Lokayukta
- Grassroots Governance: Panchayati Raj Institutions and their functioning
- Planning and Development: Decentralized planning, planning for development, sustainable development, participatory development, e-governance, NITI Aayog
- Public policy as an instrument of socio-economic development: Public policies with special reference to housing, health, drinking water, food security, MNREGA, NHRM, RTE
- Monitoring and evaluation of public policy, mechanisms of making governance process accountable: Jansunwai, social audit.
UGC NET Political Science Syllabus: Essential Topics for Exam Preparation
The UGC NET Political Science Syllabus provides an extensive study of political ideas, systems and global politics. This syllabus deals with more than simply political ideas and practices as well public policy science and politics of other nations including events in India that will help the aspirants in taking the UGC NET exam. Some of the important areas to be covered by the syllabus include:
- Political Theory
- Political Thought
- Indian Political Thought
- Comparative Political Analysis
- International Relations
- India’s Foreign Policy
- Political Institutions in India
- Political Processes in India
- Public Administration
- Governance and Public Policy in India
Each of these areas equips candidates with the knowledge required for a comprehensive understanding of Political Science.
UGC NET Political Science Exam Pattern 2024: Comprehensive Overview
The UGC NET Exam is carried out through online mode, which is also in the format of Computer Based Test (CBT). The exam consists of two papers. The following is the UGC NET Political Science Exam Pattern for the Political Science papers as prescribed by the UGC NET Political Science syllabus:
UGC NET Political Science | Number of Questions | Marks |
Paper-I Teaching & Research Aptitude | 50 | 100 |
Paper-II Political Science | 100 | 200 |
Weightage Breakdown | 150 | 300 |
There is a uniform marking policy for the exam, which says 2 marks will be awarded per right answer.
The UGC NET exam in its new structure has no provision for negative marking.
For a holistic view, please go through the full UGC NET Exam Pattern below.
UGC NET December 2024: Key Dates, Eligibility, and Exam Pattern Unveiled
Tips to Effectively Cover the UGC NET Political Science Syllabus
The UGC NET Political Science syllabus spans a broad spectrum of topics, from political theory to public administration. To cover this vast syllabus effectively, it’s crucial to plan and strategize your preparation within the available time. Here are some key preparation tips to help you tackle the Political Science section for UGC NET Paper 2:
- Create Topic-wise Notes: Make detailed notes on each topic, emphasizing key concepts, theories, and examples from the syllabus. Regularly revise these notes to reinforce your understanding.
- Review Previous Year Papers: Refer to previous UGC NET Political Science papers and answer keys to familiarize yourself with the exam pattern and identify important topics. This will help you understand the weightage of different sections in the syllabus.
- Practice Time-bound Question Solving: Regularly practice answering questions from each topic within a set time limit to improve speed and accuracy, simulating exam conditions.
- Use Political Science Solution Resources: For a deeper understanding of complex topics, refer to resources from Political Science Solution UGC NET Political Science. These resources can provide you with detailed explanations and insights into various topics in Political Science.
- Use Concept Maps and Mnemonics: To retain relationships between topics, create concept maps and use mnemonics for remembering important dates, personalities, and theories.
- Engage in Group Discussions: Participate in online study groups or discussions with study partners to clarify doubts and share knowledge. This collaborative approach can deepen your understanding.
- Focus on 2-3 Topics Daily: Select 2-3 topics to focus on each day. This targeted approach ensures steady progress without feeling overwhelmed.
- Balance Descriptive & Current Affairs: Give equal attention to both the theoretical aspects (descriptive) and current affairs related to political science. Stay updated on political developments globally and in India.
- Take Full-length Mock Tests: Regularly take full-length topic-wise mock tests for UGC NET Political Science to evaluate your preparation. Use the feedback to identify weak areas and work on them.
- Revise Regularly: Before the exam, revise your notes and question banks to reinforce what you’ve learned. Regular revision helps with retention and reduces pre-exam stress.
- Solve Important Questions from Previous Papers: Practice questions from previous exams to gauge your preparedness and identify areas needing improvement.
By following these tips, you can streamline your preparation and cover the vast UGC NET Political Science syllabus efficiently using the resources from Political Science Solution. Let me know if you need any further changes!
Best Resources to Prepare for UGC NET Political Science Syllabus
- Political Science Solution Resources
For comprehensive coverage of the UGC NET Political Science syllabus, Political Science Solution offers a variety of resources, including detailed notes, practice papers, and topic-wise breakdowns to guide you through your preparation. - “Political Theory: An Introduction” by Andrew Heywood
This book provides a solid foundation in political theory, covering all major ideologies, thinkers, and schools of thought, which are crucial for the UGC NET exam. - “Indian Political Thought” by V.R. Mehta
Focused on Indian political thinkers and ideologies, this book is highly recommended for candidates preparing for the Indian political thought section of the UGC NET syllabus. - “Introduction to the Constitution of India” by D.D. Basu
A classic book for understanding the Indian Constitution, this is indispensable for topics related to Indian political institutions and constitutional provisions. - “Indian Government and Politics” by M. Laxmikanth
This is an excellent book for understanding Indian political institutions, governance, and policies. It’s particularly helpful for the political institutions in India section of the syllabus. - “International Relations” by Pavanjit Kaur
For topics related to international relations, this book covers key concepts, theories, and current events in global politics. - “Public Administration: Concepts and Theories” by Rumki Basu
A great resource for the public administration section, this book covers both theoretical aspects and practical applications of administration in India. - “Comparative Politics” by O.P. Gauba
This book covers the theories and systems of comparative politics, providing in-depth knowledge of different political systems across the world. - “Political Science for UGC NET” by S.K. Sharma
Specifically designed for UGC NET preparation, this book offers an in-depth analysis of political science topics and includes practice questions and previous year papers. - “Governance in India” by M. Laxmikanth
This book offers a detailed look into the governance structure in India, covering key issues, policies, and challenges, which are essential for your UGC NET preparation.
Using these Resources along with Political Science Solution resources can provide you with a well-rounded preparation for the UGC NET Political Science exam. Let me know if you need further book recommendations or adjustments!
Effective Strategies to Cover the UGC NET Political Science Syllabus
1. Create Topic-wise Notes
Break down the syllabus into smaller sections and create comprehensive notes for each topic. Include key concepts, definitions, theories, and examples that are relevant to the UGC NET exam. Revising your notes regularly will help reinforce your understanding.
2. Use Political Science Solution Resources
For a structured and detailed approach, refer to Political Science Solution resources. They provide in-depth coverage of each topic with explanations, practice questions, and mock tests to help you understand complex concepts better.
3. Prioritize Important Topics
Focus on high-weightage topics that frequently appear in the exam, such as Political Theory, Indian Political Thought, Comparative Politics, and International Relations. Make sure you allocate enough time to these core areas.
4. Solve Previous Year Papers
Reviewing and solving previous year papers gives you a clear idea of the exam format, question types, and the weightage of different sections. It also helps you identify which topics require more attention.
5. Time-bound Practice
Practice answering questions from each topic within a set time limit to enhance your speed and accuracy. This will also help you manage time effectively during the actual exam.
6. Stay Updated on Current Affairs
Political Science is deeply intertwined with current affairs. Stay updated on political developments, social issues, and international events. This knowledge will help you answer questions related to recent political trends and global politics.
7. Use Concept Maps and Diagrams
To remember relationships between theories, political systems, and key political figures, create concept maps, diagrams, and flowcharts. These visual aids can help you understand complex topics and retain information better.
8. Group Study and Discussions
Engage in online study groups or discussions with peers. Talking through complex concepts and clearing doubts together can enhance your learning and provide different perspectives on political topics.
9. Focus on Both Descriptive and Analytical Aspects
The UGC NET Political Science exam covers both descriptive knowledge and analytical thinking. While preparing, focus on both theoretical explanations and practical analysis of political concepts, theories, and events.
10. Take Regular Mock Tests
Regularly take full-length mock tests, focusing on different topics within the syllabus. Mock tests simulate real exam conditions, help improve time management, and identify weak areas for improvement.
11. Revise Regularly
Consistent revision is key to retaining what you’ve learned. Set aside time each week to revise your notes, practice questions, and go over important concepts to ensure they stay fresh in your memory.
12. Understand Key Theories and Thinkers
Pay special attention to important political thinkers, theories, and ideologies. Being able to explain their contributions in-depth will help you answer both conceptual and descriptive questions confidently.
1. What is the UGC NET Political Science Exam Pattern?
The UGC NET Political Science exam consists of two papers:
Paper 2: Political Science (200 marks)
Paper 1 has 50 multiple-choice questions (MCQs), and Paper 2 has 100 MCQs. Both papers are conducted in a Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode, with each correct answer earning 2 marks. There is no negative marking.
Paper 1: General Paper on Teaching and Research Aptitude (100 marks)
2. What is the syllabus for UGC NET Political Science?
The syllabus for UGC NET Political Science covers various topics, including:
- Political Theory
- Indian Political Thought
- Comparative Politics
- International Relations
- Indian Government and Politics
- Public Administration
- Political Institutions in India
- Governance and Public Policy
- Political Economy and Development
It also includes key political thinkers, ideologies, and current affairs related to politics.
3. How many marks is the UGC NET Political Science exam worth?
The total marks for the UGC NET Political Science exam are 300 marks:
Paper 2: 200 marks
Paper 1: 100 marks
4. What is the duration of the UGC NET Political Science exam?
The total duration for the exam is 3 hours (180 minutes). Paper 1 is conducted for 1 hour, and Paper 2 is conducted for 2 hours.
5. How should I prepare for the UGC NET Political Science exam?
To prepare for the UGC NET Political Science exam, focus on understanding the core concepts and theories outlined in the syllabus. Make topic-wise notes, solve previous year papers, take mock tests, and stay updated with current affairs related to political science. Using resources like Political Science Solution can help in-depth preparation.
6. Is there any negative marking in the UGC NET Political Science exam?
No, there is no negative marking in the UGC NET exam. You will not lose marks for incorrect answers, so it’s better to attempt all questions with confidence.
7. How many questions are there in the UGC NET Political Science exam?
Paper 1 consists of 50 MCQs.
Paper 2 consists of 100 MCQs.
In total, there are 150 questions.
8. What are the key topics to focus on for UGC NET Political Science?
Some of the high-priority topics include:
Governance and Public Policy in India
Focus on core theories, political thinkers, and current political developments to strengthen your preparation.
Political Theory and Thought
Indian Political Thought
Comparative Politics
International Relations
Public Administration
9. Can I appear for UGC NET Political Science exam in different languages?
Yes, the UGC NET exam is conducted in both English and Hindi. You can choose the language of the exam while filling out the application form.
10. What is the eligibility for UGC NET Political Science?
To appear for UGC NET Political Science, candidates must have a Master’s degree or equivalent in Political Science or a related field with at least 55% marks (50% for SC/ST/PwD candidates). Candidates must also meet the specific age criteria for Junior Research Fellowship (JRF), if applicable.