Political Science and International Relations is one of the popular optional subjects in UPSC CSE. PSIR is dynamic in nature with political theories, contemporary politics, international relations. Because of this itself Current Affairs have decisive role in enhancing preparation and scoring high marks.
PSIR and Current Affairs
As distinct from conventional optional, PSIR thrives on linkages between theory and practice. The examiner expects candidates to apply them to real world politics and global issues. For example, quoting Plato or Aristotle to add weight to answers, but connecting them to debates on democracy, social justice or federalism to makes your answers stand out. Similarly, international relations answers gain depth when current events like the Russia–Ukraine war or BRICS expansion are analysed through lenses like realism or multipolarity.
In short, current affairs make PSIR answers analytical, relevant, and contemporary—qualities that fetch higher marks.
Paper I: Political Theory and Indian Politics
1. Political Theory Themes
Current debates can easily be woven into theoretical discussions:
· Democracy: Concerns about electoral reforms, voter awareness, and the rise of populism highlight the challenges of sustaining democratic ideals.
· Rights and Justice: The Supreme Court’s rulings on data privacy, same-sex marriage, and the Digital Personal Data Protection Act reflect the evolving understanding of rights.
· Equality: Discussions on caste census and reservations show how constitutional principles adapt to social realities.
2. Indian Government and Politics
This section offers abundant scope for integrating contemporary issues:
· Federalism: Ongoing disputes between Centre and states over GST, use of governors, and fiscal federalism debates illustrate cooperative versus competitive federalism.
· Legislature and Executive: Parliament disruptions and the debate on criminalisation of politics directly link to democratic accountability.
· Judiciary: The tussle over judicial appointments and constitutional bench verdicts on fundamental rights are crucial illustrations.
· Social Movements: Farmers’ protests, women’s reservation bill, and climate activism showcase the vibrancy of civil society.
Paper II: Comparative Politics and International Relations
1. Comparative Politics
Current affairs help contextualize comparative frameworks:
· Rise of Authoritarianism: Democratic backsliding in countries like Hungary and Turkey resonates with debates on populism and authoritarian trends.
· Global Issues: Migration crises, identity politics, and the pushback against globalisation are directly linked to concepts of state, nation, and democracy.
2. International Relations
This section is inseparable from global events:
· India and Neighbours: India–China border issues, India–Bhutan rail link, and Sri Lanka’s economic crisis illustrate regional dynamics.
· Major Powers: India’s technology partnership with the US, balancing act with Russia post-Ukraine war, and ties with Europe highlight strategic autonomy.
· Global Platforms: BRICS expansion, India’s G20 Presidency, and evolving Indo-Pacific strategies reflect changing world order.
· Institutions and Issues: COP climate summits, UN reforms, and the Israel–Palestine conflict connect theory with practice.
How to Use Current Affairs in Answers
1. Apply Theory: Always link events with thinkers and frameworks. For instance, Ukraine war → Realist perspective on power politics. QUAD → Liberal Institutionalism.
2. Use Case Studies: Refer to Supreme Court verdicts, government policies, or international agreements as live examples.
3. Quote Reports: Use data from NITI Aayog, SIPRI, UNDP, or World Bank for credibility.
4. Comparative Lens: Relating Indian developments to global trends enriches analysis (e.g., CAA protests vs US immigration debates).
Best Sources for PSIR Current Affairs
· Newspapers: The Hindu and Indian Express editorials for daily updates.
· Magazines: EPW for academic insights, IDSA and ORF for foreign policy.
· Reports: Economic Survey, NITI Aayog, ARC reports.
· Global Reads: Foreign Affairs, The Diplomat, Carnegie, Brookings.
Strategy for Students
Maintain a PSIR-specific current affairs notebook divided into Paper I and Paper II. Under each theme, jot down relevant cases, judgments, or international developments. By exam time, this notebook becomes a ready-made answer enrichment toolkit.
Conclusion
PSIR is not just about memorizing theories or static facts—it is about demonstrating a deep understanding of politics and international relations as they unfold today. Integrating current affairs into preparation ensures that your answers are not only rooted in theory but also grounded in reality. By linking Plato to parliamentary disruptions, or Morgenthau to India’s foreign policy, aspirants can turn their PSIR papers into insightful analyses rather than generic write-ups. And in UPSC, that’s what makes all the difference.