A guide for NPSC/CTSE (Agri., Allied & Others) examination 

DIMAPUR — Like many of her peers, Wondanglo Y Ezung aspired to pursue the science stream to become a doctor or an engineer, but financial constraints prevented her from pursuing this path despite scoring good marks in the HSLC examination. So, the day she took up Arts, a newfound determination to write competitive exams naturally took root.

The thirty-one-year-old eventually passed the Nagaland Public Service Commission/Combined Technical Services Examination [NPSC/CTSE (Agri., Allied & Others)] and secured the position of Inspector of Statistics at the Department of Economics and Statistics, Government of Nagaland.

In an interview with Eastern Mirror, Ezung shared tips on preparing for the exam.

Can you share us the initial steps to help new candidates prepare for the exam?

To cultivate interest in the tasks you are about to undertake is most crucial. Do not do anything out of compulsion. Personally, I would rise early to study, by 4:00 am to 4:30 am, and retire to bed early. And I dedicated more than 8 hours a day to studying. Remember, you have the flexibility to customise your study routines to suit your preferences. 

Given the extensive syllabus, how can candidates establish an efficient study pattern to cover all topics thoroughly?

The syllabus is conveniently accessible on the NPSC portal. It is crucial to be dedicated to your field of study at the degree level, as a clear understanding of the subjects at this level is essential for excelling in the exam.

Key topics to focus on include National Income, Consumer Demand and Price, Production and Costs, Employment, Development Economics, Banking, International Trade, India’s Foreign Trade, Indian Planning System, Agriculture and Industry, and Taxation.

What study materials do you recommend candidates for the exam preparation?

For general studies, coaching in basic general studies would be beneficial. For paper I and II, the core content is at the degree level. In addition, online tutoring classes provided me with deeper understanding into the subjects. Here are some recommended study materials:

Online tutoring class – Chanakya group of Economics 

Books/materials: Indian Economy by Ramesh Chand

Principles of Microeconomics – Ahuja H.L.

Marco economics book – K.C. Rana & K.N. Verma

Yojana monthly issue

Pratiyogita monthly magazine 

The Economic Times newspaper

What strategies would you recommend to tackle the MCQ-extensive exam?

Practice solving numerous multiple-choice questions (MCQs) pertaining to the subject, particularly those from previous years’ UGC-NET (University Grants Commission – National Eligibility Test) question papers. This will significantly boost your confidence.

How can candidates manage their time inside the exam hall?

For the general paper, you have ample time as it is only for 100 marks over 3 hours. However, for the two papers totaling 200 marks with 200 questions over the same time frame, I recommend candidates tackle the easier questions first, and then focus on predictions and mathematics to ensure no marks are missed on multiple-choice questions.

How can candidates best prepare for the interview round?

Maintain a respectful demeanour and dress decently. It is crucial to stay composed and avoid nervousness or anxiety as they can impede your performance and hinder you from performing to your full capacity.

What opportunities await those who successfully pass the exam?

The competition is indeed tough and decisive but you get a lot of contentment and joy after passing the exam. Also, joining the office and department exposes you to a workload that enhances your understanding and facilitates learning. 

The opportunities under NPSC (Agri. and Allied) include Assistant Conservator of Forest, Forest Ranger, Economics & Statistics (ESO), Inspector of Statistics (ISO), Sports Officer, Agriculture Officer, Agriculture Inspector,  Junior Soil Conservation officer, Assistant Planning Officer, Planning Assistant, Horticulture Inspector, Fishery Inspector, and more. 

Based on seniority and merit list, these officers and inspectors may ascend to head offices or sections at district and directorate levels. Even those who do not lead may retire as gazetted officers.

What insights can candidates gain from your experience in terms of preparation?

The only significant change I made was dedicating extra effort to my studies and distancing myself from unnecessary social activities, prioritising devotion and worship. Remember to nurture your spiritual life alongside your career pursuits.

How can one overcome failure in competitive exams?

If you are doing your best every time you sit for the exam, there is no need to fear failure. With dedication, success is inevitable. I have personally encountered setbacks but they ultimately shaped my journey.

RAPID INSIGHTS: 

Must-read book

The Bible

Competitive exams are ______

undoubtedly opportunities for personal growth and maturity.

A life mantra to live by:

Strive for holistic health, nurturing your spiritual, mental, and physical well-being while steering clear of addictive behaviours.