If you are preparing for APSC CCE 2026, you already know the crucial role of the Assam-specific paper. In today’s article, we will discuss the APSC Mains GS Paper V syllabus in detail, along with a preparation strategy. According to the Prelims syllabus, it is clearly stated that nearly 33–35% of the questions will be based on Assam-related topics. This section covers a wide range of subjects, including history, geography, economy, culture, tourism, and current affairs of Assam.
Moreover, in the Mains examination, there is a dedicated Assam-specific paper carrying 250 marks. Given this weightage, it is evident that a strong preparation for this section can significantly boost your overall score and improve your chances of success.
APSC Mains GS Paper V: Assam-Specific Syllabus and Its Importance
The APSC Mains GS paper V completely focuses on Assam. It covers the state’s polity, history, geography, culture, economy, society, and current developments. Excelling in this paper can make a significant difference to your overall score and greatly enhance your chances of success in the exam.
APSC Mains GS Paper V Syllabus at a Glance
| Section | Major Topics Covered |
| Assam Polity | British rule in Assam, elections, Sylhet referendum, language movement, ULFA issue, Bodo movement, Panchayati Raj, Important Acts, Constitutional & statutory bodies |
| Assam Geography | Physiography, river systems, climate, soils, forests, wildlife, population, transport, resources, industries |
| Assam History | Ancient dynasties, Ahom rule, Moamoria rebellion, Burmese invasions, British annexation, tea industry, national movement, post-independence Assam |
| Art & Culture | Assamese literature, Vaishnavite movement, music, festivals, architecture, paintings, heritage symbols like Gamusa & Muga silk |
| Assam Economy | Agriculture, industries, service sector, infrastructure, resources, planning, industrial policies, public sector enterprises, recent developments |
| Environment & Biodiversity | Ecology, biodiversity, protected areas, man-animal conflict, climate change, conservation policies |
| Disaster Management | Floods, landslides, earthquakes, boat disasters, DM Acts, SDRF, preparedness strategies |
| Security Issues | Insurgency (ULFA, BLT), terrorism, cyber security, naxalism, black money, government initiatives |
APSC Mains GS Paper V Syllabus: Assam Polity
In APSC Mains, Assam Polity covers the historical and contemporary political developments of the state. It includes Assam’s political evolution during the British period, elections, the Sadullah and Bordoloi ministries, the Cabinet Mission, and the Sylhet referendum etc. Post-independence issues such as migration, border disputes, the language movement, the Assam Movement, the Assam Accord, and the IMDT Act are also important. Additionally, it examines movements and insurgencies like the ULFA issue and the Bodo movement, along with related accords, reflecting the state’s socio-political challenges and governance dynamics.
To prepare Assam Polity for APSC Mains, focus on standard history and polity books, state government reports, and authentic sources. Try to link historical events with contemporary issues, make short notes on key movements, and practice writing analytical answers connecting Assam’s polity with broader Indian polity and governance themes.
| Subtopics | Key Areas |
| Historical perspectives | Assam during British rule, elections, Sadullah ministry, Bordoloi ministry, Cabinet Mission, Sylhet referendum |
| Post-independence Assam | Migrant crisis, border issues, language movement, Assam movement, Assam Accord, IMDT Act |
| Movements & Insurgency | ULFA issue, Bodo movement (Accords & Committees) |
| Governance | Panchayati Raj, Autonomous councils under 6th Schedule, State Acts |
| Constitutional & Statutory Bodies | Advocate General, APSC, State Election Commission, Human Rights Commission, Lokayukta |
| Important Acts | Assam Panchayati Raj Act (1994), Citizenship Amendment Act, PRANAM Act |
APSC Mains GS Paper V Syllabus: Assam Geography
In APSC CCE Mains, Assam Geography covers the state’s physical, economic, and human geography. It includes topics such as physiographic divisions, climate, soils, rivers, forests, and biodiversity. Economic aspects like agriculture, minerals, industries, transport, and communication are emphasized, along with population distribution, urbanization, and regional planning. Special focus is given to issues like flood and erosion, resource management, and environmental challenges that directly affect Assam’s socio-economic development.
To prepare Assam Geography for APSC Mains, study NCERTs for basics and supplement with Assam-specific books, government reports, and atlas maps. Practice map-based questions, link physical features with economic activities, and prepare concise notes on recurring issues like floods, erosion, and deforestation for effective answer writing.
| Subtopics | Key Areas |
| Location & Basics | Administrative divisions, physiographic divisions |
| River Systems | Brahmaputra, Barak |
| Climate | Monsoon, retreating monsoon, dry season |
| Soils | Alluvial, Piedmont, Hill, Laterite |
| Vegetation & Forests | Evergreen, semi-evergreen, deciduous, riverine |
| Biodiversity | National parks, sanctuaries, threatened species |
| Population & Settlements | Growth trends, ethnic & linguistic diversity |
| Transport | Road, rail, waterways, airways |
| Resources & Industries | Oil, coal, gas, limestone, tea, silk, bamboo, fisheries |
APSC Mains GS Paper V Syllabus: Assam History
In APSC CCE, Assam History plays a significant role. It covers the state’s historical evolution from ancient to modern times. It includes the early kingdoms (Pragjyotisha and Kamrupa), medieval rulers like the Ahoms and the Koch dynasty, and their administration, culture, and resistance to external invasions. The colonial period focuses on the British annexation, tea, oil, coal industries, peasant uprisings, and the role of Assam in India’s freedom struggle. Modern Assam history also highlights post-independence political, social, and cultural developments shaping the state’s identity.
For Assam History, rely on Assam-specific history books, reference NCERTs for context, and make chronological notes. Focus on linking events with socio-economic and cultural impacts, and practice writing analytical answers connecting Assam’s past with broader national history.
| Period | Key Areas |
| Ancient Assam | Varman dynasty, Salastambha, Pala, Chutia, Kachari, Jaintia, Koch kingdoms |
| Medieval Assam | Rise of Ahoms, Ahom administration, Moamoria Rebellion, Burmese invasions |
| Modern Assam | Treaty of Yandaboo, British conquest, tea industry, peasant revolts, tribal revolts |
| Freedom Movement | Assam’s role in anti-partition, Civil Disobedience, Quit India, and women in the struggle |
| Post-Independence | Ministries of Bordoloi, Bishnuram Medhi, Language revolt of 1960, ULFA, Assam Accord |
APSC Mains GS Paper V Syllabus: Art and Cultural Development of Assam
In APSC Mains, Art and Cultural Development of Assam deals with the state’s rich heritage and traditions. It covers ancient art forms, architecture, sculpture, and archaeological sites; the contributions of Srimanta Sankardeva and the Neo-Vaishnavite movement; classical and folk dances, music, and theatre; festivals, crafts, and textiles like Assam silk; and the state’s literary and linguistic traditions. It also emphasizes how Assam’s diverse communities have shaped its composite culture over time.
To prepare this section, focus on standard Assam culture books, government cultural reports, and IGNCA/ASI resources. Make short notes on major personalities, art forms, and festivals, and practice writing answers that highlight Assam’s cultural uniqueness while linking it to India’s wider cultural canvas.
| Subtopics | Key Areas |
| Literature | Charyapada, Vaishnavite literature, and modern Assamese literature |
| Movements | Vaishnavite movement (Shankardev, Madhavdev) |
| Music | Folk, Bihu songs, Bhupen Hazarika, Jyotiprasad Agarwala |
| Festivals | Bihu, tribal & religious festivals |
| Architecture & Sculpture | Temples, Rang Ghar, inscriptions |
| Heritage | Gamusa, Japi, Muga silk |
APSC Mains GS Paper V Syllabus Assam Economy
Assam Economy section in GS Paper V syllabus covers the state’s economic structure, growth, and challenges. It includes agriculture, irrigation, and allied sectors; industries such as tea, oil, coal, and handloom; infrastructure like transport, power, and communication; and emerging sectors such as tourism and IT. Key topics also include poverty, unemployment, rural development, state finances, planning, and government initiatives for economic growth, along with issues like floods, erosion, and regional disparities that affect development.
For Assam Economy, study government reports, Economic Survey of Assam, and Planning/Policy documents. Focus on data-driven preparation, make notes on sector-wise challenges and schemes, and practice analytical answers connecting Assam’s economy with India’s overall economic framework.
| Subtopics | Key Areas |
| Structure | Primary, Secondary, Tertiary sectors |
| Agriculture | Major crops, land reforms, and productivity issues |
| Industries | Tea, coal, petroleum, handicrafts, silk, bamboo |
| Services | IT, banking, tourism |
| Planning & Development | Five-year plans, NITI Aayog, public sector enterprises |
| Policies | Industrial policy (2014), tourism policy (2017), start-up policy, and bamboo mission |
| Recent Developments | Mega food park, bamboo park, organic farming, IT hubs |
APSC Mains GS Paper V Syllabus: Environment & Biodiversity of Assam
In APSC Mains GS Paper V, Environment & Biodiversity focuses on the state’s ecological wealth and environmental concerns. It covers forests, national parks, and wildlife sanctuaries; unique ecosystems like wetlands, grasslands, and the Brahmaputra valley; and species diversity including endemic and endangered flora and fauna. Key issues include deforestation, floods, soil erosion, climate change, and human–wildlife conflict, along with conservation initiatives, policies, and community-led efforts for sustainable development.
For Environment & Biodiversity, use NCERT basics, Assam-specific environment reports, and data from Forest Department and MoEFCC. Make thematic notes on biodiversity hotspots, protected areas, and challenges, and link Assam’s environmental issues with global concerns like climate change and sustainable development goals (SDGs).
| Subtopics | Key Areas |
| Biodiversity | National parks, sanctuaries, hotspots |
| Environment Issues | Pollution, climate change, and man-animal conflict |
| Government Initiatives | Protected area networks, eco-restoration schemes |
APSC Mains GS Paper V Syllabus: Disaster Management in Assam
Disaster Management in Assam covers the state’s vulnerability to both natural and man-made disasters. Key areas include floods, riverbank erosion, earthquakes, landslides, and occasional cyclones, along with industrial and man-made hazards. The syllabus emphasizes disaster preparedness, mitigation strategies, institutional mechanisms (like ASDMA), community participation, and the role of technology and government schemes in managing disasters and ensuring resilience.
For Disaster Management in Assam, study ASDMA/NDMA guidelines, government reports, and case studies. Focus on causes, impacts, and mitigation measures for each disaster, and practice answer writing with examples from Assam to show practical understanding and relevance.
| Subtopics | Key Areas |
| Types of Disasters | Floods, landslides, earthquakes, and boat capsizes |
| Management | Disaster Management Act, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) |
| Preparedness | Early warning systems, relief measures, and rehabilitation |
APSC Mains GS Paper V Syllabus: Security Issues in Assam
In APSC Mains, Security Issues in Assam deals with the internal and external challenges affecting the state’s stability. It includes insurgency movements like ULFA and NDFB, ethnic conflicts, militancy, and cross-border issues such as migration, smuggling, and trafficking. Topics also cover border management with Bangladesh and other neighboring states, the role of security forces, peace accords, and government initiatives for conflict resolution and rehabilitation.
For Security Issues in Assam, refer to government white papers, reports, and credible news sources. Prepare notes on major insurgent groups, peace accords, and border issues, and practice writing analytical answers linking security concerns with governance, development, and national security
| Subtopics | Key Areas |
| Insurgency | ULFA, BLT, Bodo conflicts |
| Terrorism | 2008 serial blasts |
| Other Issues | Naxalism, cyber security, money laundering, black money |
| Government Measures | Security organisations, counter-terrorism policies |
How to Prepare for APSC GS Paper V?
Preparation for this paper requires a region-specific approach. Start with standard books like or the materials of a coaching institute you can rely on. Supplement them with government reports, Assam Tribune editorials, and PIB updates on state issues. Make concise notes for each section and use maps and flowcharts to present geographical and economic data. Practicing previous year question papers will help identify frequently asked topics like the Assam Movement, the Bodo Accord, or the Tea Industry.
Importance of APSC GS Paper V
This paper plays a very significant role in the APSC Mains Examination because it tests aspirants’ in-depth knowledge of Assam. While other GS papers are common with UPSC, GS Paper V gives an edge to candidates familiar with Assam’s socio-political and cultural background. Since it carries equal marks as other GS papers, excelling here can improve the overall ranking. For aspirants who belong to Assam, this is also an opportunity to showcase their awareness of local issues and governance, a quality highly valued in state civil services.
When Was APSC GS Paper V Introduced?
The General Studies Paper V was introduced in 2016, when APSC revised its Mains examination pattern to align more closely with the UPSC Civil Services Exam while retaining a state-specific component. Before this change, the exam had a different subject-wise structure, but the addition of GS Paper V ensured that candidates develop a comprehensive understanding of Assam’s history, economy, polity, and society. Since then, it has become a core part of the APSC Mains examination.
Conclusion
The APSC Mains GS Paper V syllabus covers Assam’s history, polity, economy, culture, geography, and current challenges. With proper planning, aspirants can turn this paper into a high-scoring opportunity. Focus on regional knowledge backed by current updates, make use of maps, data, and examples, and practice writing structured answers. Borthakur’s IAS Academy wishes you good luck and unshakable confidence on this journey.
Also read : APSC Mains GS-IV Syllabus 2025: Detailed Guide With Preparation Strategy
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is GS Paper V considered so important in APSC Mains?
It’s important because the paper is fully dedicated to Assam—its history, polity, economy, geography, culture, and current issues. Since it carries 250 marks, doing well here can significantly improve your overall rank.
How is GS Paper V different from other General Studies papers?
Unlike other GS papers which are common with UPSC, Paper V focuses entirely on Assam. This makes it unique and gives Assamese candidates an edge if they prepare seriously.
What are the main areas covered in this paper?
The syllabus broadly includes Assam’s polity, history, geography, art and culture, economy, environment and biodiversity, disaster management, and security issues.
Do I need to study NCERT books for this paper?
Yes, NCERTs help in building a foundation, especially in history and geography. But you also need Assam-specific books, government reports, and authentic sources for state-related content.
How should I approach Assam’s history section?
Start from ancient dynasties like the Varmans, move to medieval rulers like the Ahoms, then cover British annexation and Assam’s role in the freedom struggle, and finally focus on post-independence developments.
What about current affairs are they asked in this paper?
Absolutely. Current issues of Assam such as floods, peace accords, economic policies, and recent government schemes are very important. Linking current events with the static syllabus gives you an advantage.
Is map-based preparation useful for this paper?
Yes, especially for geography and economy. You should be able to mark rivers, physiographic divisions, industries, and even cultural sites on the map. It adds value to your answers.
How can I make my answers stand out?
Use data from government reports, quote relevant acts or policies, add case studies, and whenever possible, include flowcharts or maps. This shows clarity and depth in your preparation.
Was GS Paper V always part of APSC Mains?
No, it was introduced in 2016 when APSC revised its pattern. Earlier, the structure was different, but this paper was added to test candidates’ knowledge of Assam in detail.
What is the best preparation strategy for this paper?
Start with standard books and reports, make concise notes section-wise, revise regularly, and practice writing answers from previous years’ papers. The key is to connect Assam’s issues with larger national and global contexts wherever possible.