CDS General Knowledge Syllabus 2025: Download GK Syllabus PDF & Previous Year Question Papers

The CDS 1 2025 exam will be conducted on April 13, 2025. The syllabus plays a vital role in the preparation of an examination. Scroll down and check once the topics covered in the General Knowledge section of the CDS exam 2025, previous year question papers and preparation tips.

CDS General Knowledge Syllabus 2025

CDS GK Syllabus 2025: The Combined Defence Services (CDS) examination is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) and is one of the most sought-after exams for aspirants who wish to join the Indian Armed Forces. The CDS 1 2025 exam will be conducted on April 13, 2025. In the syllabus of CDS, there are three sections: Mathematics, General Knowledge, and English for candidates preparing for IMA, INA, and AFA. On the other side for OTA, two sections are namely General Knowledge and English. The General Knowledge section of the CDS exam is designed to test awareness of candidates about current events, history, geography, politics, and some general facts that are important for the Indian military. 

Take a look in detail at the CDS General Knowledge Syllabus, outlining the key areas that will help candidates in their preparation along with the previous year's question papers and some preparation tips.

Also Read: CDS 1 2025 Exam Analysis Live Updates 

CDS 2025 Exam Pattern

Candidates can check below in brief the CDS exam pattern.

CDS 2025: General Knowledge Syllabus

The General Knowledge section covers topics like  current affairs, history, geography, general science, etc. Scroll down to know in detail about the General Knowledge Syllabus for CDS exam. 

Indian History

Ancient History: Covering the topics like ancient civilizations such as the Indus Valley Civilization, the Vedic period, the Maurya and Gupta Empires, and the cultural and religious developments, etc.

Medieval India: The Delhi Sultanate, Mughal Empire, and significant events, rulers, and invasions (e.g., the invasions of Mahmud of Ghazni, Alauddin Khilji, Babur, etc.).

Modern India: British colonization, the First War of Indian Independence, the Indian National Movement, and the role of leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Subhas Chandra Bose, and others.

Post-Independence India: Crucial events post-1947, including the formation of Indian Constitution, Republic of India, and major developments in Indian politics and governance.

Geography

Physical Geography: This section covers physical features of the Earth like mountains, rivers, oceans, and the atmosphere. Topics like climate, weather patterns, natural disasters, etc. are also plays a vital role.

Indian Geography: This section covers India’s states, capitals, rivers, mountain ranges, regions, and climate zones.

World Geography: Countries, their capitals, important landmarks, climate zones, and environmental issues like pollution and conservation are covered. Further, physical, social, and economic aspects of geography, including Indian geography and world geograph also covered.

Indian Polity and Governance

This section covers Indian Constitution, Political System, Panchayati Raj, Public Policy, Rights Issues, Election Commission, RTI, NITI Aayog, etc.etc.

Economics

Basic Economic Concepts like several terms including GDP, inflation, unemployment, poverty, role of money in the economy, etc.

Indian Economy section covers key facts about India’s economy, including agriculture, industrial growth, banking systems, and economic policies.

International Economic Organizations inlcuidng organizations like the World Bank, IMF, WTO, and their role in the global economy, etc.

Science and Technology

General Science section covers basic concepts of Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. Also, focus on everyday phenomena and practical applications.

Scientific Developments including awareness of recent scientific advancements, space exploration missions, medical advancements, developments in environmental science, space technology, biotechnology, computer technology, etc. 

Environmental Ecology and Biodiversity

This section covers conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment, global warming, climate change, conservation, sustainability issues, awareness of recent scientific advancements, etc.

Defence and Security Issues

This section covers current events related to national security, internal and external threats, role of Armed Forces, understanding the structure and organization of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. Knowledge about various important military operations, peacekeeping missions, and defense strategies, etc.

Current Affairs

National and International Events & News: Candidates need to stay updated about important events that are happening in India and around the world including  political events, governmental decisions, policies, significant diplomatic visits, international summits important global agreements, etc.

Sports Events: Awareness of major sporting events like Olympics, FIFA World Cup, ICC tournaments, and other international competitions.

Awards and Honours: Candidate should have knowledge about prestigious awards, including the Padma Awards, Nobel Prizes, Oscar Awards, and other notable recognitions in several fields.

Science and Technology Developments: Advancements in space technology, defense, medical science, information technology, etc.

CDS Syllabus PDF: Click Here 

CDS 2025: Previous Years Question Papers

Candidates can check below previous year's question papers of General Knowledge.

CDS 2025 Preparation Tips

Candidates can check below some of the preparation tips that may help to crack the UPSC CDS exam.

• Candidates should do frequent revision of the topics.
• Read Newspapers, magazines regularly.
• Knowledge about the syllabus also plays a crucial role in the preparation.
• Practice Previous Year Question Papers and do Mock tests.
• Refer to study material or reference book while preparing for UPSC CDS exam. This will help you in having as thorough preparation of the subject.
• Strategise your preparation
• Revise current Affairs including history, geography, polity, etc. 

Read More:

UPSC CDS English Syllabus 2025

CDS Maths Syllabus 2025, Download CDS Mathematics Syllabus PDF