UPSC Mains 2025 Essay Paper: Download PDF, Topics & Analysis

The UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination 2025 formally commenced on 22nd August 2025 with the Essay Paper (Paper I). The paper is of great significance since it carries 250 marks and usually becomes the deciding factor in the final merit list. Two essays, one from each part, are to be written by the candidates, with every essay being worth 125 marks.
In this article, we discuss the UPSC Mains 2025 Essay Paper PDF, including exam information, significance, and what aspirants can gain from this year’s essay questions.

UPSC Mains 2025 Essay Paper

The UPSC Mains 2025 Essay Paper was held on 22nd August 2025, which was the start of the Civil Services Mains Exam. The paper is of 250 marks, and the candidates have to write two essays, one from each part (A & B), each of 125 marks. This paper is important because it assesses not only knowledge but also clarity of thought, analytical skills, originality, and sound arguments. Essay questions typically address philosophical topics, governance, social concerns, and international challenges. Soon, the official UPSC Mains 2025 Essay Paper PDF will be available on upsc.gov.in and other reliable sources for downloading.

UPSC Mains 2025 Essay Paper PDF

The official UPSC Mains Essay Paper 2025 PDF will be released soon. Candidates can download it directly once it is uploaded on the official website, upsc.gov.in, and other trusted platforms.

Click Here to Download UPSC Essay Paper 2025 PDF

5 How to Download UPSC Essay Paper 2025 PDF?

• Visit the Official UPSC Website

  • Go to upsc.gov.in

  • This is the official site where UPSC releases all exam-related PDFs.

• Check the “Examinations” Section

  • On the homepage, click on the Examinations → Active Examinations / Previous Question Papers section.

• Find the Civil Services (Main) Examination 2025

  • Under Question Papers, select Civil Services (Main) Examination 2025.

• Locate the Essay Paper (Paper I)

  • The Essay Paper will be listed along with General Studies and Optional Subject papers.

  • Click on Essay Paper 2025 PDF link.

• Download the PDF

  • The file will open in a new tab.

  • Click the download button to save it to your device.

UPSC Essay Paper Pattern

1. Two Sections: Section A & Section B

2. Four topics in each section (total 8 topics given)

3. Candidates must attempt one essay from each section

4. Word Limit: Around 1000–1200 words per essay

5. Marks: 125 marks each, total 250

Previous Year Trends in Essay Papers

• UPSC Mains 2024: Topics revolved around democracy, climate change, technology & social ethics.

• UPSC Mains 2023: Philosophical essays like “Thinking is like a game, it does not begin unless there is an opponent” were asked.

• UPSC Mains 2022: Essays focused on history, governance, and global challenges.

This shows that philosophical and abstract topics are becoming increasingly common, making practice essential.

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