The Economic & Social Issues (ESI) paper in RBI Grade B Phase II is a crucial component that tests a candidate’s understanding of economic concepts, social policies, and financial inclusion measures. Given that 50% of the paper is descriptive, mastering answer writing strategy is key to securing high marks.
This guide will cover:
- Exam pattern & marking scheme
- How to structure high-scoring answers
- Key points to include in answers
- Common mistakes to avoid
- Practice strategies for improving descriptive writing
1. RBI Grade B 2025 Descriptive ESI Paper: Exam Pattern & Marking Scheme
- 600-word questions require a detailed analytical approach.
- 400-word questions demand a concise and to-the-point response.
2. Key Components of a High-Scoring Answer
A well-structured answer consists of three main parts:
A) Introduction (60-80 words for 600-word answers, 50-60 words for 400-word answers)
- Define key terms and introduce the topic.
- Provide data, statistics, or a recent event.
- Mention the importance/relevance of the topic in the Indian economy/social sector.
B) Main Body (450-500 words for 600-word answers, 300-320 words for 400-word answers)
- Causes & Factors – Discuss reasons behind the issue.
- Impact & Challenges – Explain how it affects different sectors.
- Government Policies & RBI’s Role – Mention schemes, laws, and initiatives.
- Data & Reports – Quote Economic Survey, RBI Reports, Budget, NITI Aayog, IMF, World Bank.
- Way Forward & Suggestions – Provide recommendations for improvement.
C) Conclusion (80-100 words for 600-word answers, 50-70 words for 400-word answers)
- Summarize key points.
- Offer a future perspective or policy recommendations.
- Maintain a positive and forward-looking approach.
3. How to Structure Answers for Maximum Marks?
1. Introduction Strategies
For 15-mark questions (600 words):
- Define the topic:
Example: “Inflation refers to the sustained rise in the general price level of goods and services. According to the RBI’s Monetary Policy Report (2024), India’s retail inflation stood at 5.4% in December 2024.” - Use a fact/statistic:
“India’s GDP growth rate is expected to reach 6.5% in FY2025, as per the Economic Survey 2024.” - Provide context:
“In the wake of globalization and digitization, India’s financial sector has undergone rapid transformation, impacting economic growth and financial inclusion.”
For 10-mark questions (400 words):
- Be direct and concise.
- Avoid long explanations; focus on key facts.
2. Main Body Strategies
The body of the answer should contain three to four subheadings for clarity.
Example: Answering a Question on Inflation Control in India
💡 Q: “Discuss the impact of RBI’s inflation-targeting framework in controlling inflation in India.” (600 words, 15 marks)
Subheading 1: Understanding Inflation in India
- Definition of inflation and its types (CPI, WPI, Demand-pull, Cost-push).
- Recent inflation trends in India (RBI’s inflation data for 2024-25).
Subheading 2: RBI’s Inflation Targeting Framework
- RBI’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC).
- Repo Rate Adjustments to control inflation.
- Open Market Operations & Liquidity Management.
Subheading 3: Effectiveness of Inflation Control Measures
- Success in keeping inflation within the 4% target band.
- Challenges in controlling food inflation and fuel price volatility.
Subheading 4: Way Forward
- Strengthening monetary-fiscal coordination.
- Expanding supply-side reforms in agriculture & manufacturing.
3. Conclusion Strategies
The conclusion should:
- Summarize key points without repetition.
- Provide forward-looking policy measures.
- Maintain an optimistic and balanced tone.
Example Conclusion for Inflation Question:
“While RBI’s inflation-targeting framework has been instrumental in maintaining price stability, India must focus on long-term structural reforms, enhanced supply chain management, and technological interventions in agriculture to ensure sustainable inflation control.”
4. Answer Writing Strategies for RBI Grade B 2025 ESI Paper
✅ 1. Practice Answer Writing Daily
- Pick one 600-word and one 400-word question daily.
- Write within the time limit to improve speed.
✅ 2. Read Economic Reports & Government Publications
- Economic Survey, Budget 2025-26, RBI Reports, World Bank & IMF Reports.
- Note data, schemes, and key economic trends.
✅ 3. Use Data & Examples in Every Answer
- Example 1: “According to the World Bank, India’s GDP grew by 6.8% in 2024.”
- Example 2: “PM Jan Dhan Yojana has facilitated financial inclusion for over 47 crore Indians, as per RBI data.”
✅ 4. Use Bullet Points & Subheadings
- Increases readability and clarity for the examiner.
✅ 5. Stick to the Word Limit
- Don’t write 700 words for a 600-word answer – It shows poor time management.
✅ 6. Improve Typing Speed
- The exam is computer-based. Practice typing answers to maintain accuracy and speed.
5. Common Mistakes to Avoid in RBI Grade B Descriptive ESI
❌ 1. Lack of Structure in Answers
- A poorly structured answer reduces readability and coherence.
❌ 2. Writing Too Much Theory Without Analysis
- Answers should be analytical, not just factual.
❌ 3. Ignoring RBI’s Role & Government Policies
- Always mention monetary and fiscal policies.
❌ 4. Not Using Data or Reports
- Use statistics, policy measures, and real-world examples.
❌ 5. Poor Grammar & Typos
- Practice writing error-free answers to enhance readability.
6. Sample Questions for Practice
15-Mark Questions (600 Words)
- “Discuss the challenges and solutions for unemployment among youth in India.”
- “How can India achieve sustainable economic growth while ensuring environmental conservation?”
- “Explain the role of RBI in financial inclusion and digital banking expansion.”
10-Mark Questions (400 Words)
- “Analyze the impact of AI in the Indian banking sector.”
- “What are the economic implications of migration due to climate change?”
- “Discuss the National Industrial Corridor and its impact on India’s economy.”
7. Conclusion
Scoring high in RBI Grade B 2025 Descriptive ESI requires:
- A structured approach to answer writing.
- Data-backed, analytical responses.
- Time management & daily practice.
By writing structured, fact-based answers with proper subheadings, candidates can maximize their marks in the ESI descriptive paper.
Action Plan for Aspirants:
✔ Practice 1 descriptive answer daily (600 & 400 words).
✔ Stay updated with economic developments & RBI policies.
✔ Use data-driven arguments and mention government schemes in every answer.
With the right preparation and answer-writing strategy, cracking RBI Grade B 2025 Descriptive ESI is within reach!