“Essays for Civil Services & Other Competitive Examinations (Paper-I)” by Maniram Sharma is a comprehensive and meticulously designed guidebook for aspirants preparing for APSC, APPSC, MPSC, UPSC Mains, and various other state civil service examinations. Published by Mahaveer Publications, this book provides a solid foundation for mastering the art of essay writing, one of the most critical components of high-level competitive exams.

The book covers a wide range of contemporary, socio-economic, political, ethical, cultural, environmental, scientific, and international issues, reflecting the exact demand of Civil Services Mains Paper-I. Each essay is crafted with clarity, balanced arguments, multidimensional analysis, and an exam-oriented approach that helps students develop both content depth and effective writing strategies.

A unique strength of this work is its model essays, which demonstrate ideal structure, proper coherence, logical flow, and enriched content—essential qualities for scoring high in essay papers of APSC, UPSC, and state PSCs. The book also includes topic-wise guidance, brainstorming techniques, introduction–body–conclusion patterns, use of examples, and value addition points that help candidates enhance their writing competency.

Unit–01: Foundations of Essay Writing

This unit prepares aspirants for the structure, approach, and analytical depth required in Civil Services Mains Essay Paper.

1. How to Prepare for the Essay

• Understanding UPSC expectations

• Key skills required

2. Essay Introduction Techniques

• Crafting engaging openings

• Setting context and tone

3. Main Body of the Essay

• Argument development

• Use of examples, data, and evidence

• Balancing perspectives

4. Essay Conclusion

• Articulating a strong finish

• Creating impact and coherence

5. Choosing a Topic

• Selecting themes strategically

• Identifying philosophical vs. socio-economic themes

6. Writing a Philosophical Essay

• Handling abstract and value-based topics

• Use of ethical philosophy and logical reasoning

Unit–02: Contemporary, Social & Philosophical Essays

This section contains high-quality model essays on current affairs, governance, ethics, society, and philosophical thinking—aligned with UPSC pattern.

Selected Essay Topics Include:

1. Truth Never Damages a Cause That Is Just

2. PRIs: Securing Economic Development and Social Justice

3. Power of the Mind: Unconquerable Strength

4. Economics & Technology in Combating Agrarian Distress

5. Education for Inclusive Society

6. E-Governance for Good Governance

7. Courage to Stand Alone vs. Following the Crowd

8. Human Complexity and Environmental Challenges

9. Water Crisis: Mismanagement vs. Meteorology

10. Malnutrition: Policies & Pitfalls

11. It Is the Question, Not the Answer, That Enlightens

12. The Future Depends on What We Do Today

13. Asymmetric Federalism: Uniformity vs. Diversity

14. Poverty: Social Injustice or Financial Deprivation?

15. Is Modernity Possible Without Westernization?

16. Silence of Good People: More Dangerous than Evil

17. Weakness as the Root of Cruelty

18. Changing Yourself Before Changing the World

19. Marginalization of Women: Physical & Psychological Aspects

20. Media: Pillar or Grenade under Democracy?

21. Silence on Things That Matter

22. Not All Those Who Wander Are Lost

23. Imagination vs. Intelligence

24. Expect the Best, Prepare for the Worst

25. More Law, Less Justice

26. Protest Beyond Law as a Democratic Element

27. Bureaucracy as a Giant Mechanism Run by Pygmies

Unit–03: Governance, Ethics, Economy & Development Essays

28. Role of Character in Destiny

29. Unity of Ethics & Power

30. Outstanding People & Sense of Mission

31. Ingredients of a Good Life

32. Fear of Winning & Losing

33. Market: Friend of the Poor or Enemy?

34. Scientific Solutions vs. New Problems

35. Temple of Democracy & Institutional Ethics

36. Privacy vs. Technology

37. Human Resource Development in Assam

38. Flood Management in Assam

39. Illegal Migration into Assam

40. New Emerging Realities of Work

41. Women’s Changing Roles & Economic Power

42. Congenial Climate for Startups

43. Capitalism & Inclusive Growth

44. Should Mining Be Imposed in Tribal Areas?

45. Corporate Patriotism

46. Path to Glory: Creator vs. Saboteur

47. Communication & Rationality

48. Value of Truth Lived, Not Taught

49. Endurance as Civilizational Strength

50. Plagiarism as Self-Sabotage

51. Knowledge as Source of Democratic Power

52. Sustainable Development & Ecology

53. Responsibility of Student Politics

54. Gender Equality in Marriage

55. Women Building the World They Want

56. Campus Politics Debate

57. Education for Life

58. Village vs. City Development Needs

59. Indian Democracy at a Crossroads

60. Character Determines Destiny

Unit–04: Assam & North-East India Focus Essays

Specially designed for APSC Mains, this unit covers major developmental, social, and administrative issues of Assam & the North-East.

Topics Include:

1. Problems of Industrial Development in Assam

2. Role of Women in Socio-Economic Development

3. Skill Development & Employment

4. NEP 2020: Merits & Demerits

5. Flood & Erosion in Assam

6. Climate Challenges in North-East

7. Migration Issues in Assam

Unit–05: Important Essay Topics (Previous Years & Model Essays)

This unit compiles high-scoring essays from previous APSC & UPSC trends.

APSC Mains 2020 Model Essays:

1. A Good Life Inspires by Love & Guided by Knowledge

2. Being a Leader Is Great, But Being a Great Follower Is Greater

3. Knowledge Is Power, But Reward Is Responsibility

Other Model Essays Include:

• The New World of Digital Privacy

• The Crisis of Values in Public Life

• Technology, AI & Work Culture

• National Integration & Social Harmony