Preparing for the NABARD Grade A 2024 Exam requires a strategic understanding of the exam pattern across all phases. NABARD, the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development, conducts this exam for recruiting Assistant Managers, and the selection process includes Prelims, Mains, and an Interview. Here’s a detailed look at the exam format, marking scheme, and syllabus to help aspirants prepare effectively.
Phase I: Preliminary Exam (Objective)
The Prelims exam is a screening round with objective questions from various sections. It is crucial as only those scoring above the cutoff in the merit section advance to the Mains.
- Duration: 120 minutes
- Total Marks: 200
- Key Sections:
- Reasoning: 20 marks
- English Language: 30 marks
- Computer Knowledge: 20 marks
- Quantitative Aptitude: 20 marks
- General Awareness: 20 marks
- Economic and Social Issues with Focus on Rural India: 40 marks
- Agriculture and Rural Development with Focus on Rural India: 40 marks
Note: Only the marks from the merit sections (General Awareness, Economic & Social Issues, Agriculture & Rural Development) count toward shortlisting for the Mains.
Phase II: Main Exam (Objective & Descriptive)
The Mains consists of two papers for Generalist posts, each lasting 90 minutes. Both papers are critical as they form the basis for the final score along with the interview.
Paper I: General English (Descriptive)
- Marks: 100
- Duration: 90 minutes
- Components:
- Essay: 500 words (40 marks)
- Precis: 120 words (30 marks)
- Letter Writing: 250 words (30 marks)
- Objective: Assesses clarity, coherence, and topic understanding.
Paper II: Economic and Social Issues & Agriculture (Objective + Descriptive)
- Objective Part: 50 marks for multiple-choice questions.
- Descriptive Part: 50 marks, with candidates answering 4 out of 6 questions.
- Covers crucial topics like economic reforms, social issues, rural development, and agriculture policy.
Phase III: Interview
Candidates qualifying for the Mains are called for an interview, assessing their knowledge, critical thinking, and suitability for the role.
- Total Marks: 50
Key Tips for Effective Preparation
- Prioritize the Syllabus: Review high-priority topics, especially in Economic & Social Issues and Agriculture.
- Regular Practice: Solve mock tests for time management, focusing on merit sections in Prelims.
- Focus on Current Affairs: Stay updated on government policies, schemes, and socio-economic issues.
- Essay and Precis Practice: For the descriptive section, practice structured essay writing on relevant topics and develop summary skills for precis writing.
The NABARD Grade A exam is demanding but rewarding. Understanding its structure and preparing accordingly will give you an edge in your preparation journey.