The Economic and Social Issues (ESI) paper in RBI Grade B Phase II plays a crucial role in assessing a candidate’s understanding of key economic concepts, government policies, and social issues. With 50 marks dedicated to descriptive questions, aspirants must focus on well-structured, analytical, and data-backed answers to score high.
In this article, we will discuss the top 10 most important topics for RBI Grade B 2025 Descriptive ESI, along with expected questions, answer-writing strategies, and key points to cover in each topic.
1. India’s Economic Growth Post-Pandemic
Why Important?
- The COVID-19 pandemic led to a severe economic downturn, with India’s GDP contracting by 7.3% in FY21.
- Post-pandemic recovery and GDP growth trends are crucial for RBI’s policy decisions.
Expected Question:
“Discuss India’s economic growth trajectory post-pandemic and the challenges in achieving sustainable development.”
Key Points to Cover:
- Pre-Pandemic vs. Post-Pandemic Growth Trends (GDP growth, fiscal deficit, demand recovery).
- Government Stimulus Measures (Atmanirbhar Bharat, PLI schemes, Make in India).
- Challenges in Economic Growth (Inflation, employment, global slowdown).
- Way Forward (Structural reforms, green growth initiatives).
2. Inflation Control Measures in India
Why Important?
- Inflation directly impacts purchasing power, investment, and overall economic stability.
- RBI’s monetary policies play a crucial role in inflation control.
Expected Question:
“Analyze the impact of RBI’s inflation-targeting framework in controlling inflation in India.”
Key Points to Cover:
- Types of Inflation (CPI, WPI, Demand-pull, Cost-push).
- RBI’s Inflation Targeting Framework (MPC decisions, Repo rate changes).
- Recent Trends in Inflation (2024-25) (Food and fuel prices, supply-side constraints).
- Government Policies to Tackle Inflation (PDS, MSP reforms, monetary tightening).
3. Role of RBI in Banking Sector Reforms
Why Important?
- RBI plays a pivotal role in regulating banks, managing NPAs, and ensuring financial stability.
Expected Question:
“Discuss the role of RBI in strengthening the Indian banking system and tackling NPAs.”
Key Points to Cover:
- RBI’s Regulatory Functions (CRR, SLR, Basel Norms).
- Banking Sector Reforms (Privatization of PSU banks, digital banking).
- Non-Performing Assets (NPAs) (Causes, SARFAESI Act, Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code).
- Fintech & Digital Transformation in Banking (UPI, CBDC, AI in banking).
4. Financial Inclusion in India
Why Important?
- RBI and the Government are pushing financial inclusion through digital payments and banking penetration.
Expected Question:
“Financial inclusion is essential for inclusive growth. Discuss India’s progress and challenges in achieving full financial inclusion.”
Key Points to Cover:
- Definition & Importance of Financial Inclusion.
- Government Initiatives (PM Jan Dhan Yojana, Digital India, MUDRA loans).
- Challenges (Rural banking access, financial literacy, cybersecurity concerns).
- Future Roadmap (Fintech revolution, RBI’s role in expanding financial services).
5. India’s Budget 2025-26: Key Highlights and Analysis
Why Important?
- The Union Budget defines economic priorities, taxation policies, and government expenditures.
Expected Question:
“Critically analyze the Union Budget 2025-26 with respect to economic growth and fiscal discipline.”
Key Points to Cover:
- Fiscal Deficit & GDP Growth Targets.
- Key Allocations in Infrastructure, Healthcare, and Education.
- Taxation & Revenue Measures.
- Growth-Oriented vs. Welfare Approach in Budgeting.
6. Sustainable Development & Climate Change Policies
Why Important?
- Climate change is a global challenge, and India has ambitious targets under COP26 & Net-Zero goals.
Expected Question:
“How can India balance economic growth with sustainability and environmental protection?”
Key Points to Cover:
- India’s Commitments (Paris Agreement, Net-Zero by 2070).
- Green Energy Policies (National Solar Mission, FAME-II, Green Hydrogen Policy).
- Impact of Climate Change on Indian Economy (Agriculture, Infrastructure).
- Sustainable Finance & RBI’s Role.
7. Digital Transformation & AI in the Indian Economy
Why Important?
- Artificial Intelligence (AI), blockchain, and digital payments are transforming various sectors.
Expected Question:
“Discuss the role of AI and digital transformation in India’s economic growth and financial sector.”
Key Points to Cover:
- Growth of Digital Payments (UPI, CBDC, Fintech startups).
- AI in Banking & Governance (Fraud detection, Smart contracts).
- Challenges in Digital Transformation (Data privacy, Digital divide).
- Regulatory Measures (RBI’s approach to digital banking and AI ethics).
8. Rural Development & Employment Generation
Why Important?
- Rural distress and unemployment remain major challenges in India.
Expected Question:
“What are the key government schemes for rural development and employment generation in India?”
Key Points to Cover:
- Major Schemes (MGNREGA, PM Kisan, Start-up India for rural entrepreneurs).
- Challenges in Rural Development (Infrastructure gaps, Lack of skill training).
- Solutions for Employment Growth (Skill India, MSME empowerment, Rural manufacturing hubs).
9. Women Empowerment & Gender Equality in India
Why Important?
- India has made significant progress in gender equality, but challenges persist in workforce participation and social inclusion.
Expected Question:
“Women’s empowerment is key to India’s development. Discuss government initiatives and challenges in achieving gender equality.”
Key Points to Cover:
- Status of Women in India (Education, Employment, Political Representation).
- Government Initiatives (Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, Maternity Benefit Act, SHGs).
- Challenges (Workplace gender gap, Safety concerns, Patriarchal norms).
- Solutions (Legal Reforms, Economic Participation, Women-led businesses).
10. India’s Trade & Foreign Policy in a Globalized Economy
Why Important?
- India’s trade policies impact GDP growth, exports, and global relations.
Expected Question:
“Analyze India’s foreign trade policies and its impact on economic growth.”
Key Points to Cover:
- India’s Trade Performance (Exports & Imports, FTAs).
- Impact of Global Trade Conflicts (US-China Trade War, WTO Policies).
- PLI Scheme & Export Promotion Strategies.
- RBI’s Role in Managing Trade Balances & Forex Reserves.
Final Tips to Score High in RBI Grade B 2025 Descriptive ESI
✅ Follow a Structured Approach: Use Introduction, Body (with subheadings), and Conclusion.
✅ Incorporate Data & Reports: Use Economic Survey, Budget, RBI reports, NITI Aayog data.
✅ Use Bullet Points & Short Paragraphs: Enhances readability and clarity.
✅ Practice Typing Regularly: Since the exam is computer-based, speed and accuracy matter.
✅ Be Analytical, Not Just Theoretical: Provide logical reasoning, policy implications, and real-world examples.
Conclusion
The RBI Grade B 2025 Descriptive ESI paper requires a deep understanding of economic and social issues, along with structured writing skills. By focusing on key government policies, RBI’s role, and economic trends, aspirants can effectively frame well-structured, analytical, and data-backed answers.
By preparing these top 10 topics thoroughly, you can maximize your score and improve your chances of clearing the RBI Grade B 2025 exam.