Are you preparing for UPSC Prelims 2025 and feeling overwhelmed by the ever-evolving section of Science and Technology? You’re not alone. With questions ranging from space tech and biotechnology to emerging digital innovations and defense technologies, this section can be a game-changer if approached strategically. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the most important Science and Tech topics for UPSC Prelims 2025, highlight reliable sources, analyze the latest trends based on PYQs, and share smart tips to help you prepare efficiently and confidently. Whether you’re a first-time aspirant or a seasoned candidate aiming for perfection, this blog is your one-stop solution to mastering Science and Technology for the UPSC exam.
Important Topics of Science and Technology for Prelims 2025
Static
- Basics
- Matter Particles – Fermions, Neutrinos, Bosons, etc – their properties
- Basics of Radioactivity
- Laser – LIDAR; Anti-Laser
- Superconductivity
- Chemicals of concern – PFAS, BPA, Aspartame, etc. – their uses
- Microorganisms – viruses, bacteria’s, fungi, etc
- Biotechnology
- Cell
- DNA, RNA – Transcription, translation
- Genes – Gene editing techniques
- Chromosomes – Reproductive Technologies
- Stem Cell Therapy
- Human Genome and related Projects
- Genetically Modified Crops – Bt Cotton, DMH-11 Mustard, Bt Brinjal, etc
- Information and Communication Technology
- Types of Networks – PAN, LAN, MAN, WAN, etc.
- Spectrum in wireless communication – Radio waves to Gamma Rays
- LiFi vs WiFi
- Concepts like Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, LTE, VoLTE, Vo5G, 5G, 6G, Web 3.0, internet of Things, etc.
- Metaverse, Blockchain, Artificial Intelligence, Cryptocurrency, Non-Fungible Tokens, Quantum Technology – Basic understanding + applications
- Cloud Computing – SaaS, IaaS, PaaS, etc.
- Semiconductors, Robotics
- Diseases
- Communicable + Non- Communicable – their causative agents, symptoms, whether vaccine is available, etc.
- Key innovations in vaccines + indigenous vaccines
- Energy
- Nuclear energy – types of reactors (Pressurised Heavy Water, Small Modular reactors, etc)
- India’s three stage nuclear power programme
- Solar energy – terms like photovoltaic system, concentration solar power, etc
- Biofuels – generations
- Hydrogen fuel and its colour coding
- Green Ammonia
- Battery Technology – Zinc Air batteries, Lithium ion cells, Sodium ion cells, microbial fuel cells etc.
- Nanotechnology
- Carbon Nanotubes, Graphene, 2D Materials, Quantum dots, etc.
- Defence
- Missile Systems and Technology – Ballistic, Cruise, Surface-to-Surface, Surface-to-air, Ballistic missile defense technologies + their examples in India and other major powers
- Indian Missiles – their specifications
- Fighter jets – their generation and other specifications
- Indian Navy Warships and Submarines
- Space Technology
- Key missions and their objectives – NASA, Roscosmos, JAXA, ESA and ISRO
- Launch vehicles – PSLV, GSLV – their specifications
- Ramjet and Scramjet engines
Current Affairs
- Micro RNA
- Reverse Transcriptase
- Goldene
- Nano Fertilisers
- Quantum Non-Locality
- Brain-Computer Interface
- Vishvasya: National Blockchain Technology Stack
- Operation Dronagiri
- Mini Moon
- Quasars
- Super Blue Moon
- EOS-08 Earth Observation Satellite
- Artemis Accords
- Antimatter
- A1 and A2 Milk
- Tokamak Fusion Reactor
- Small Modular Reactor
- Agni-Prime
- Bisphenol A
- Technological Doping
- NASA Mars Odyssey Orbiter
- Solar Storms
Best Source for Science and Technology for Prelims 2025
- UnderStand UPSC’s Science and Technology Blue book is the best reliable source specially curated for UPSC Prelims 2025. It is a comprehensive coverage that provides one stop solution for Science and Technology.
- For current affairs, students can follow UnderStand UPSC’s yearly FocUS Magazines/ science and technology section of Monthly current affairs magazine.
Trend Analysis in Prelims – Science and Technology
- S&T maintains a steady presence in UPSC Prelims, with 10–14 questions every year from 2018 to 2024.
- Overlap with Current Affairs: More than 70% of S&T questions are now current-based.
- Conceptual Understanding Tested: Simple factual recall is out; application-based questions are in.
Tips for Preparing Science and Technology for UPSC Prelims 2025
- Focus on integrating current affairs with core science concepts
- Prioritize topics like biotechnology, nanotechnology, space missions, AI, quantum tech, and defense systems
- Follow ISRO, DRDO, Department of Science and Technology updates regularly
- Practice previous year UPSC Prelims S&T questions to understand trend and difficulty
- Make short notes for recurring themes like genome editing, green energy, vaccine development
- Understand government schemes related to innovation and digital technology
- Stay updated with international developments like Nobel Prizes, climate technologies, and treaties
All the Best!
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