APPSC Group 2 Prelims and Mains

The Andhra Pradesh Public Service Commission (APPSC) has announced the APPSC Group II Exam to recruit candidates for various executive and non-executive posts across departments. Below, we’ll delve into the details of the available posts, exam pattern, eligibility, and preparation tips for aspiring candidates.

1. APPSC Group II Exam Pattern

The APPSC Group II selection process consists of a Screening Test (Preliminary Exam), Main Exam, and Computer Proficiency Test (CPT).

Screening Test (Preliminary Exam) Click for Notes

  • The preliminary exam is an objective type, OMR-based test.
  • This exam serves as a filter to select candidates for the main exam.
  • Subjects typically include General Studies and Mental Ability, Social and Cultural History of Andhra Pradesh and the Indian Constitution, and Planning and Economy.
  • Click Here for Detailed Screening Test Syllabus

Main Exam   Click for Notes

  • The main examination is also objective and may be conducted in offline or Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode.
  • It consists of three papers:
    • Paper I: General Studies and Mental Ability.
    • Paper II: Social and Cultural History of Andhra Pradesh and the Indian Constitution.
    • Paper III: Planning and Economy.
  • There is a penalty of 1/3rd marks for every incorrect answer.

Computer Proficiency Test (CPT) Click Here for CPT Notes

2. Overview of APPSC Group II Posts

APPSC Group II posts are categorized into executive and non-executive roles, each offering competitive pay scales and growth opportunities.

Executive Posts

  1. Assistant Registrar in the Cooperative Subordinate Service.
  2. Extension Officer in Panchayat Raj and Rural Development.
  3. Prohibition & Excise Sub-Inspector in Prohibition & Excise Sub-Service.
  4. Municipal Commissioner (Grade-III) in Municipal Commissioners Subordinate Service.
  5. Sub-Registrar (Grade-I) in Registrations and Stamps Subordinate Service.
  6. Deputy Tahsildar in Revenue Subordinate Service.
  7. Assistant Labour Officer in Labour Subordinate Service.

These roles typically require handling administrative tasks, ensuring compliance with government policies, and assisting in the implementation of various development programs.

Non-Executive Posts

Non-executive roles include:

  1. Assistant Section Officer in the Secretariat, Law, and Finance Departments.
  2. Senior Auditor in State Audit Subordinate Service.
  3. Senior Accountant in Treasuries and Accounts Sub-Service.
  4. Junior Assistants in various departments such as Civil Supplies, Social Welfare, and Municipal Administration.

These roles are administrative and support-oriented, involving regular interactions with citizens and other government departments.

3. Eligibility Criteria

Educational Qualifications

Candidates must have a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university in India. For specific posts, preference is given to candidates with degrees in Law, Economics, Commerce, or Mathematics.

Age Limit

  • Executive Positions: Typically, 18-42 years. Specific roles, like the Prohibition & Excise Sub-Inspector, have a maximum age limit of 30 years.
  • Non-Executive Positions: Age limit varies between 18-42 years, depending on the position.
  • Age relaxations apply to candidates belonging to reserved categories, as outlined in APPSC’s rules.

Physical Standards (for specific roles)

  • Prohibition & Excise Sub-Inspector: Minimum height of 165 cm (for men) and 152.5 cm (for women), with a weight requirement of at least 45.5 kg for women. Specific vision standards are also required.

Minimum Qualifying Marks

  • General and EWS: 40%
  • BC: 35%
  • SC/ST/PWD: 30%

4. Reservations and Relaxations

The APPSC Group II Exam provides reservations based on community categories (SC, ST, BC, EWS) and horizontal reservations for persons with disabilities, ex-servicemen, women, and meritorious sports persons as per the state government’s rules. Reserved posts are filled first before considering the general category posts.

5. APPSC Group II Syllabus

The APPSC Group II syllabus includes:

  • General Studies and Mental Ability: Topics like current affairs, logical reasoning, quantitative aptitude, and basic knowledge of sciences.
  • Social and Cultural History of Andhra Pradesh: Emphasis on Andhra Pradesh’s socio-cultural evolution, freedom struggle, and contributions of notable figures.
  • Indian Constitution: Study of fundamental rights, Directive Principles, federal structure, and amendments.
  • Planning and Economy: Overview of Andhra Pradesh’s economy, recent developments in agricultural and industrial sectors, policies impacting the state, and current economic issues.

6. Study Material and Preparation Tips

To ace the APPSC Group II Exam, candidates should gather relevant study material and follow structured preparation plans.

Recommended Books

  1. General Studies:
    • “Indian Polity” by M. Laxmikanth
    • “Indian Economy” by Ramesh Singh
    • AP history and culture books specific to Andhra Pradesh.
  2. General Mental Ability:
    • RS Aggarwal’s books on quantitative aptitude and logical reasoning.
    • Practice papers available in APPSC Group II preparation guides.
  3. Current Affairs:
    • Monthly magazines and online sources like PIB and Yojana.
    • Regularly follow national and Andhra Pradesh state newspapers.
  4. Computer Proficiency:
    • For posts requiring CPT, basic computer textbooks focusing on MS Office, internet usage, and typing practice can be beneficial.

Preparation Strategy

  1. Structured Study Plan: Break down the syllabus into daily targets and prioritize sections with higher weightage.
  2. Mock Tests and Previous Papers: Regular practice of mock tests can enhance time management and question-solving efficiency.
  3. Current Affairs Update: Dedicate at least 30 minutes each day to stay updated with the latest developments in national and state issues.
  4. Focus on Weak Areas: Use diagnostic tests to identify and improve on weaker topics.

7. Application Process

Candidates can apply for APPSC Group II posts through the official APPSC website by filling out the One Time Profile Registration (OTPR) form. The application fees are:

  • Processing Fee: Rs. 250
  • Examination Fee: Rs. 80 (certain categories like SC/ST and Ex-servicemen are exempt from this fee).

8. Key Dates and Exam Centers

The APPSC Group II exam will be conducted across various centers in Andhra Pradesh. The exam centers include Srikakulam, Visakhapatnam, East and West Godavari, Anantapur, Chittoor, Kurnool, etc.

Conclusion

The APPSC Group II Exam is an excellent opportunity for candidates aiming for stable government careers in Andhra Pradesh. Candidates should adhere to a well-structured preparation plan, focus on practicing previous year papers, and maintain consistency. Good luck with your preparation and upcoming exams!