The UPSC syllabus is vast, and current affairs play a major role in preparation. This week’s key topics include the legacy of the Maratha Empire, recent changes in Tamil Nadu’s education policy, and India’s push towards electric mobility. Each of these areas connects with multiple parts of the syllabus, from history and polity to economics and environment. Understanding them is not only useful for exams but also for building a broader awareness of India’s governance and developmental challenges.
I’m writing about this because aspirants often struggle to connect static subjects like history with ongoing developments. For example, the Maratha Empire is not just a chapter in medieval history—it also gives lessons on decentralised governance, military organisation, and diplomacy. Similarly, Tamil Nadu’s education reforms highlight the federal structure of India and debates on the National Education Policy. The EV push is another critical theme linking technology, economy, and environmental sustainability. By looking at these topics together, we can see how UPSC preparation becomes richer when we link current events with core concepts from the syllabus.
Maratha Empire: Historical Significance
The Maratha Empire, established in the 17th century, rose to prominence under leaders like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Known for their guerrilla warfare tactics, administrative innovations, and strong naval presence, the Marathas challenged Mughal dominance in India. They built a confederacy that extended across large parts of the subcontinent, influencing politics, trade, and military strategies.
For UPSC, this topic connects with themes like medieval Indian polity, decentralisation, and socio-cultural developments of the era. It’s also a reminder of how regional powers shaped India’s history before colonial consolidation.
Tamil Nadu’s Stand on Education Policy
Tamil Nadu has been vocal in opposing certain aspects of the National Education Policy (NEP). The state argues for maintaining its two-language formula instead of adopting the NEP’s three-language approach. It also emphasises decentralised curriculum planning that reflects local culture and priorities.
These policy choices are rooted in historical movements in Tamil Nadu against imposition of languages and centralised control. For UPSC, this is important for understanding federalism, education reforms, and linguistic diversity in India.
India’s Electric Vehicle Push
India is aiming for rapid adoption of electric vehicles to reduce dependency on fossil fuels and cut carbon emissions. Government incentives, charging infrastructure development, and collaborations with global EV manufacturers are part of this plan. The EV push also aligns with India’s commitments under international climate agreements.
For UPSC, this falls under environment, economy, and science & technology. Questions could link EV adoption to energy security, urban planning, and sustainable transport.
Linking the Three Themes
While the Maratha Empire is a historical topic, Tamil Nadu’s education policy and India’s EV strategy are contemporary. Yet, all three reflect India’s diversity, governance challenges, and strategic planning—whether in the 17th century or today. Understanding such links strengthens UPSC preparation and helps in writing more analytical answers.
