NABARD Grade A exam is a good opportunity for government job seekers due to the organization’s focus on the critical sectors of agricultural and rural development, job security with good work-life balance, competitive compensation, potential for professional growth, social impact, the prestige associated with the institution, and the chance for continuous learning and exposure. The NABARD Grade A exam is soon to be announced and the NABARD Grade A notification 2024 will provide all the essential details regarding the exam. Experts believe that NABARD barely makes any changes in their tentative exam date. This means the NABARD Grade A phase 1 Exam is likely to happen within the next 35-40 days of releasing the notification. So, aspirants, you better not only be prepared for the exam but also cope with your pre-exam anxiety.
The best part about applying for NABARD is that you need not necessarily be related to the agriculture field in order to become eligible for this exam. For instance, if you are an IT graduate, you can apply for the NABARD Assistant Manager (RDBS) post in the Computer /IT discipline. However, there is a major challenge that a person from a non-agriculture background faces in the phase 1 exam. In this blog, we are going to talk about that challenge and tips to cope with it. So you better try to keep reading this blog till the end.
The Challenge for Non-Agriculture Aspirants in the NABARD Grade A Phase 1 Exam
We all know the Exam Pattern of the NABARD Grade A that comprises Phase 1, 2 and the interview round for all posts. Simultaneously, you must also know that the vacancies announced by NABARD are not only limited to the Agriculture field but possess various fields. Those fields include IT, Finance, Legal, etc. As a result, the phase 1 exam is the same for all posts, and the phase 2 exam differs in accordance with the field to field vacancies. However, the syllabus for phase 1 is the same for all posts. Here, applicants from non-agriculture backgrounds find it difficult when it comes to some agriculture-based topics in the NABARD Grade A syllabus. Ideally, the subjects of NABARD Grade A Phase 1 are divided into two sections: Qualifying and Merit-based.
The major challenge non-agriculture aspirants face is in the merit-based sections. Here, the ESI and ARD subjects include the Dynamic questions wholly related to the agriculture studies. In this blog, we will tell some strategies through which you can be able to study these two subjects of ESI and ARD. This will help you score good marks in the NABARD Grade A Phase 1 exam and positively impact your merit.
An Introduction to Economic Social Issues (ESI) and Agriculture and Rural Development (ARD)
To begin with studying anything, it is important to understand the basics of both subjects. At ixamBee, we believe in spreading conceptual knowledge. Hence, below is a brief introduction to the subjects ESI and ARD:
Economic and Social Issues (ESI):
This subject deals with various economic and social aspects that affect rural India. It includes topics like poverty alleviation, rural development programs, economic reforms, and social issues like gender inequality, education, and healthcare.
Agriculture and Rural Development (ARD):
ARD, as the name suggests, focuses on rural development and agriculture-related topics. It covers areas such as crop production, agricultural policies, rural banking, and the agricultural economy.
How to study ESI and ARD as an Aspirant from a Non-Agriculture Background?
It is important to know the fact that the syllabus of ESI and ARD of the NABARD Grade A Phase 1 Exam only includes the Dynamic questions. Therefore, there is no point in waiting hours to read course books and have in-depth knowledge about them. You can play smart instead by following the below hacks that are definitely going to help you score high and qualify for the NABARD Grade A phase 2 exam.
1. Know the Exam Pattern
Understanding the NABARD Grade A syllabus is the first step to preparing effectively for ESI and ARD. The NABARD Grade A Phase 1 exam consists of two sections: merit-based subjects and qualifying subjects. ESI and ARD fall under the merit-based subjects. These subjects carry substantial weightage in the exam, making them crucial for your overall score.
2. Collect Study Materials
To excel in ESI and ARD, you need the right study materials. Here are some recommendations:
Books:
Look for books that cover the ESI and ARD syllabus comprehensively. Some popular choices include “Indian Economy” by Ramesh Singh and “Agriculture at a Glance” by R.K. Sharma.
Yearly Reports and Data
Yearly reports are one of the best resources to practice and enhance your knowledge about ARD and ESI. Such reports include the Union Budget, Updates of ICAR and KVK, Economic Survey Summary, ISFR Report, NABARD yearly report etc.
3. Create a Study Plan
To manage your preparation effectively, create a well-structured study plan. Allocate time for each subject and topic, giving more attention to areas you find challenging.
Start with the basics and gradually move to advanced topics. This approach will help you build a strong foundation in ESI and ARD.
4. Focus on Basics
If you’re from a non-agricultural background, don’t be intimidated by ARD. Begin with the basics. Understand the fundamentals of agriculture and rural development, such as crop cultivation techniques, agricultural policies, and rural banking systems.
Similarly, for ESI, start by grasping basic economic concepts and then delve into specific issues affecting rural India. This step-by-step approach will make the subjects more manageable.
5. Practice Regularly
Practice is key to mastering ESI and ARD. Seek out sample questions, NABARD Grade A previous year papers, and free mock tests. Regular practice will familiarise you with the exam format and improve your problem-solving skills.
Several online platforms offer NABARD Grade A free mock tests and quizzes specifically designed for NABARD Grade A aspirants. Make use of these resources to gauge your preparation level.
6. Seek Guidance
If you find certain topics challenging, don’t hesitate to seek guidance. Connect with mentors, experts, or fellow aspirants who excel in ESI and ARD. Joining online forums, study groups or enrolling on NABARD Grade A online coaching can be immensely helpful in discussing doubts and gaining insights.
7. Stay Updated
Both ESI and ARD are dynamic subjects that require you to stay updated with current affairs. Make it a habit to read newspapers, watch news programs, and follow government initiatives related to rural development, economic reforms, and social issues.
Understanding current developments will not only boost your knowledge but also enhance your performance in the descriptive section of the exam.
8. Revise Effectively
Revision is often underestimated, but it’s a crucial part of exam preparation. Create concise notes summarising key points, formulas, and important facts. These notes will be invaluable for last-minute revision.
For more information about how to prepare for ARD and ESI subjects, especially for aspirants with a non-agriculture background, have a look at the video below.
Conclusion
In conclusion, for non-agriculture aspirants preparing for the NABARD Grade A Phase 1 exam, mastering Economic and Social Issues (ESI) and Agriculture and Rural Development (ARD) is essential. By understanding the exam pattern, collecting appropriate study materials, creating a structured study plan, focusing on fundamentals, practicing regularly, seeking guidance, staying updated with current affairs, and revising effectively, candidates can overcome the challenges presented by these subjects. With diligent preparation, even those from non-agricultural backgrounds can score well and qualify for the NABARD Grade A Phase 2 exam, opening doors to a rewarding career in various fields beyond agriculture. Wish you Good luck!
Also Read
NABARD Grade A and DA (Development Assistant) Exam 2024: Expected Date & Preparation Strategy
How to Write Descriptive Answers in ESI NABARD Grade A Phase 2 Exam 2024?
NABARD Grade A 2024: Decision Making Syllabus and Preparation
