RBI Grade B ESI Syllabus 2025: A Comprehensive Guide for Aspirants

The Economic and Social Issues (ESI) paper in the RBI Grade B Phase II exam is pivotal, assessing candidates’ understanding of India’s economic framework and social dynamics. A thorough grasp of the syllabus is essential for effective preparation.

📘 ESI Syllabus Overview

The ESI paper encompasses both static concepts and current affairs. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

1. Growth and Development

  • Measurement of Growth: National Income, Per Capita Income, GDP, GNP, NNP, GVA.
  • Poverty Alleviation and Employment Generation: Government initiatives and programs.
  • Sustainable Development and Environmental Issues: Climate change, renewable energy, and related policies.

2. Indian Economy

  • Economic History of India: Pre- and post-independence economic developments.
  • Industrial and Labor Policy Changes: Reforms and their impacts.
  • Monetary and Fiscal Policy since 1991 Reforms: Policy shifts and outcomes.
  • Economic Survey and Union Budget: Key highlights and recommendations.
  • Indian Financial Markets: Structure and role in economic development.
  • Role of Indian Banks and RBI: In economic growth and stability.
  • Public Finance and Political Economy: Government revenue and expenditure, fiscal federalism.
  • Sectoral Developments: Agriculture, Industry, and Services sectors.

3. Globalization and International Economic Issues

  • Opening up of the Indian Economy: Liberalization, Privatization, and Globalization (LPG) reforms.
  • Balance of Payments and Export-Import Policy: Trade dynamics and policies.
  • International Economic Institutions: IMF, World Bank, WTO, and their roles.
  • Regional Economic Cooperation: SAARC, ASEAN, and other regional groupings.

4. Social Structure in India

  • Demographic Trends: Population growth, age distribution, urbanization.
  • Urbanization and Migration: Causes, effects, and policies.
  • Gender Issues: Gender equality, women empowerment initiatives.
  • Social Justice: Affirmative actions, inclusive policies.
  • Human Development: Health, education, and standard of living indicators.
  • Social Sectors in India: Government schemes in health and education.

📝 Preparation Strategy

1. Understand the Exam Pattern

The ESI paper in Phase II comprises both objective and descriptive sections, each carrying 50 marks. The objective section tests factual knowledge, while the descriptive section assesses analytical and writing skills.

2. Build a Strong Foundation

  • NCERT Textbooks: Class 11 and 12 Economics for basic concepts.
  • Standard Reference Books:
    • “Indian Economy” by Ramesh Singh.
    • “Growth and Development” by Devraj Ray.
    • “Indian Economy” by Mishra and Puri.

3. Stay Updated with Current Affairs

  • Newspapers: Regular reading of The Hindu, The Indian Express, or Business Standard.
  • Government Publications:
    • Economic Survey of India.
    • Union Budget.
    • RBI Annual Reports.
    • NITI Aayog Reports.
  • Magazines: Yojana, Kurukshetra for socio-economic issues.

4. Practice Descriptive Writing

  • Essay Writing: Practice essays on current economic and social topics.
  • Data Interpretation: Incorporate statistics and reports to substantiate arguments.
  • Feedback: Seek feedback from mentors or peers to improve writing skills.

5. Attempt Mock Tests

  • Regular Practice: Attempt full-length mock tests to build exam temperament.
  • Analysis: Review performance to identify strengths and areas for improvement.

📚 Recommended Study Materials

  • Books:
    • “Indian Economy” by Ramesh Singh.
    • “Growth and Development” by Devraj Ray.
    • “Indian Economy” by Mishra and Puri.
  • Reports:
    • Economic Survey of India.
    • Union Budget.
    • RBI Annual Reports.
    • NITI Aayog Reports.
  • Magazines:
    • Yojana.
    • Kurukshetra.
  • Online Resources:
    • Press Information Bureau (PIB) releases.
    • RBI official website for updates and publications.

🎯 Final Tips

  • Integrate Static and Current Knowledge: Relate current events to static concepts for a holistic understanding.
  • Regular Revision: Periodically revise topics to retain information.
  • Time Management: Allocate time wisely between objective and descriptive sections during preparation and the actual exam.
  • Stay Consistent: Maintain a regular study schedule to cover the vast syllabus effectively.

By following this structured approach, aspirants can enhance their preparation for the ESI paper in the RBI Grade B 2025 exam. Stay focused, stay informed, and success will follow.