GS Strategist-I

ALS

Alternative Learning Systems

(GS Main + Prelim + CSAT + Essay + Interview)

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NORTH DELHI CENTRE

GS Strategist is a comprehensive General Studies programme for IAS Main and Preliminary Examinations. This programme covers the syllabi of all the 4 papers of GS Main, Essay paper, Interview Preparation as well as both the papers (including CSAT) of Preliminary Exam. This course is especially designed keeping in mind the needs of learners, who are not exposed to the various facets of General Studies as a part of their academic curriculum. General Studies is an extremely dynamic component in the entire scheme of Civil Services Examination. It deals with diverse subject matter that is constantly evolving to keep pace with the new developments. The recent changes in the nature of Examination further makes it a formidable challenge. Through the constant effort of ALS Team, GS Strategist has been upgraded and enriched in response to the rapidly changing needs. Through its unique, step wise and scientific approach, ALS as near perfected the Civil Services requisites for General Studies. The Newly Added paper on Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude in the Main Exam & CSAT in Prelim Exam is the latest twist in the preparation for Civil Services Exam. To cater to this new requirement the course is designed as per UPSC syllabus with greater emphasis on regular Tests and Home Assignments. Exclusive sessions on Essay Writing and Personality Development for the Interview have ensured consistently high scores for our successful students.
A. Programme Code ................................. GS STRATEGIST B. Project Director ............................................ Jojo Mathew C . Breakthrough Sessions . ....................... Shashank Atom D. Faculty Support . ........... Manish Gautam, Arunesh Singh, Arbind Singh, K. Krishna Reddy, K.M. Pathi, Sanjay Pandey, Sachin Arora, Shashi Shekhar & Manjula Khatri E. Course Venue .. ALS Convention Hall-1, Batra Complex F. Course Duration . ....... Sept. 04, 2013 April 20, 2014 G. Course Content PRELIMINARY Paper-I (GS) ........................................................ 200 marks Paper-II (CSAT) ................................................. 200 marks Total . ................................................................ 400 marks MAIN EXAMINATION GS (Paper I) ........................................................ 250 marks GS (Paper II) ....................................................... 250 marks GS (Paper III) ...................................................... 250 marks GS (Paper IV) ...................................................... 250 marks I. ESSAY ................................................................. 250 marks INTERVIEW ....................................................... 275 marks Total . ............................................................. 1525 marks H. Course Plan GENERAL STUDIES No. of Lectures .............................................................. 256 No. of Tests (Main) ......................................................... 08 No. of Tests (PT) ............................................................ 23 Total ............................................................................... 287 CSAT No. of Lectures ................................................................ 36 Comprehension Test ....................................................... 10 Module Tests .................................................................... 05 Simulated Tests ................................................................ 03 Total ................................................................................. 54 Grant Total . ................................................................. 341 Important Dates Admission Opens ......................................... May 10, 2013 Course Orientation .............................. September 04, 2013 GS Strategist completes ............................... April 20, 2014

THE SCHEDULE Classes will begin from 4th September 2013. In the month of September there will be only one session of 2 hrs 45 minutes each at 07:30am. Classes will be held 6 days a week. Sundays will be generally kept as a holiday. From 7th October, 2013 onwards there will be 2 sessions every day. 1. 07:30 am to 10:15 am 2. 11:00 am to 01:30 pm CURRENTAFFAIRS CRASH COURSE FOR MAIN EXAM A special 20-25 Day Current Affairs Crash Course will be conducted during August 2014 for those who clear Preliminary exam and appear for Main Exam in 2014. This course is available free of cost for those who appear in the 2014 Main Exam. These classes will be held only in the North Delhi Centre. An additional fee will be charged if the candidate wants to appear in this course in the subsequent attempts, (i.e. in 2015 or 2016) even if the candidate could not avail this facility in the 2014 attempt.
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GS Strategist-I

ALS

Alternative Learning Systems

(GS Main + Prelim + CSAT + Essay + Interview)

Master Planner September 04, 2013 Batch
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The number of sessions per month will be as follows: PROPOSED NO. OF CLASSES
Month September October November December January February March April Total Working Days 21 24 24 22 27 24 25 16 --Sessions 21 44 48 44 54 48 50 32 341 Holiday Gandhi Jayanti Dussehra Bakrid Diwali Christmas/Mid-Term Recess Republic Day Holi Good Friday

LIST OF HOLIDAYS
Dates 2 Oct., 2013 12-13 Oct., 2013 16 Oct., 2013 2-4 Nov., 2013 22-27, Dec., 2013 26 Jan., 2014 16-17 March, 2014 18 April, 2014

This programme is for those who want to excel in their life. Its for people who think big and are willing to take on newer challenges. The whole programme is designed in such a way that the knowledge imparted can be path breaking for every participant. A good grounding in General studies will boost your confidence.We are committed to develop your overall personality through meticulous training .We expect you to fully participate in the activities designed for you. We assure you of an enriching experience that will make a difference to your life. Programme Details Each lecture in the G.S.Strategist is for a duration of two hours & forty-five minutes. Classes are conducted 6-days a week except Sundays, national holidays and some other holidays declared by the institute. For registration, timing and the date of commencement of the course, please refer to the programme schedule. Study Material Each module is supported by two kinds of study material. One, the Learning Tools provided during the lecture. The purpose of such Tools is to enable you to concentrate on understanding and grasping the subject matter rather than using up your precious time writing down all that has been said by the teacher. The intention is to add value to each lecture and make your learning efficient and lasting. Two, the Self Study Booklets provided for each module containing detailed background material for broader and deeper understanding. These booklets also contain opinions, analysis and articles published in various newspapers, magazines and journals, suitably remodelled to best serve your interest. Moreover, ALS will provide you with some of the vital books which are published by Competition Wizard, as part of the study material. Regular Class Tests One of the most outstanding features of the Course is frequent class tests. Both descriptive as well as multiple-choice tests are conducted at regular intervals. Short duration descriptive tests are conducted almost on a daily basis. One full-length descriptive test under simulated exam conditions, with UPSC compatible evaluation and feedback is conducted towards the end of each Module. For the Preliminary examination, tests are conducted on a weekly basis so that students can track their progress and evaluate their own performance in a systematic manner. Towards the end of the programme, several module-specific and full-length multiple-choice tests are conducted under simulated exam condition on OMR sheets with computerised evaluation.This gives the student a feel of the examination much before it actually happens. We at ALS strongly believe that Tests help students in three ways: (i) Self-discipline It induces a strong urge to study on a daily basis. (ii) Self-evaluation It helps you know where you stand. (iii) Constructive comparison It shows where you are placed with respect to your peer group. Special Essay Training Programme The Special Essay Training Programme is a module offered as a part of the GS Strategist course. It is aimed to equip you to manage a variety of topics that suit your writing style. The programme is designed using a revolutionary and unique technology to train you to achieve extra-ordinary performance levels in the Essay test. 100% Partnership We, at the Institute, work with the philosophy of a 100% student-teacher partnership where both put in their best. It is this relationship which has made possible consistently high success rates in the examination and otherwise too. We take pride in the way students assume total responsibility for their learning and development, and the teachers for the training and support they provide. For Getting the Maximum Value out of this Course, as a participant you will be expected to honour the following commitments: (a) Being regular and punctual for the lectures, meetings and tests. (b) Being seated at least 10 minutes before each session begins. (c) Completing all assignments, readings and home work well before time and (d) Not doing anything that impedes or blocks the progress of the course. WARNING! To the Students Missing Lectures Since each session is a part of a well-knit, integrated course design, the absence from a lecture could amount to a loss in other areas. And in a classroom programme as this one, the Institute has no mechanism to compensate for the sessions that you miss. Therefore, participation in each session is important. You alone shall be responsible for any loss arising out of the missed sessions.

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GS Strategist-I

ALS
Plan

Alternative Learning Systems

(GS Main + Prelim + CSAT + Essay + Interview)

Master Planner September 04, 2013 Batch
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SESSION-I 07:20 am - 10:15 am

SESSION-II 11:00 am - 01:30 pm

GS STRATEGIST-I LECTURE PLAN

Faculty Sessions Hours Faculty Name Jojo Mathews JM SA SA 02 01 03 15 10 18 14 13 05 18 09 07 02 25 15 08 05 06 06 05 08 10 33 18 08 13 10 05:00 02:30 07:30 37:30 25:00 45:00 35:00 32:30 12:30 45:00 22:30 17:30 05:00 62:30 37:30 20:00 12:30 15:00 15:00 12:30 20:00 25:00 82:30 45:00 20:00 32:30 25:00 Total 341 852:30 Course Coor. CC 39 97:30 Dr Haroon HA 02 05:00 Visiting Faculty Ajay Srivastava VF ASr 07 03 17:30 07:30 Manjula Khatri MK 05 12:30 Shashi Shekhar SS 05 12:30 Sanjay Pandey SP 13 32:30 KK Reddy Sachin Arora Arbind K Singh KK SAr AR 23 21 25 57:30 52:30 62:30 Shashank Atom KM Pathi Arunesh Singh SA KM AS 12 37 25 30:00 92:30 62:30 Manish Gautam MG 58 145:00 Faculty Code Sessions Hours JM 66 165:00

GENERAL STUDIES Course Introduction & Blueprint Breakthrough Session Writing Skill Development

Backgrounder JM (International, Bilateral & Institutions) Backgrounder (National, Internal Security Issues) Indian Polity-I Indian Polity-II Science & Technology Environment Indian Geography General Geography World Geography Disaster Management Indian Economy Modern Indian History History of the World Post Independence History Indian Culture Essay Every Day Science Life Science Social Issues Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude Current Affairs Simulated Tests (Main) Simulated Tests (Prelim) NCERT Tests (Prelim) CSAT General Mental Ability AR JM MG JM/MG/SP/HA SAr MG JM/MG/SAr MK/SAr VF AS KKR KKR VF KM SA/SAr SS SP JM/ASr KM/SA/JM/MG JM/MG CC CC CC MG

14 07 08 03 04 07 03 05 03 341

35:00 17:30 20:00 07:30 10:00 17:30 07:30 12:30 07:30 852:30

Logical Reasoning & Analytical Ability AR Interpersonal & Communication Skills K M Decision Making & Problem Solving J M Data Interpretation Comprehension Test Critical Reading Simulated Topic-wise Tests Simulated Comprehensive Tests Total AR SAr KM CC CC .....

*SPECIAL COURSES: Available for GS Strategist Students in addition to 341 sessions

GS Main Crash Course

25 sessions of 2 hrs each during the month of August 2014. (For those who appear for 2014 Main Exam)

7-Day Intensive Interview Training Programme - In the month of March.

(For those who appear in IAS Interview in any Attempt)
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GS Strategist

ALS

Alternative Learning Systems

Syllabi for the Examination as per UPSC Notification

PART-A: PRELIMINARY EXAMINATION

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The Examination shall comprise two compulsory papers of 200 marks each. Paper I - (200 marks) Duration : Two hours Current events of national and international importance. History of India and Indian National Movement. Indian and World Geography - Physical, Social, Economic Geography of India and the World. Indian Polity and Governance - Constitution, Political System, Panchayati Raj, Public Policy, Rights Issues, etc. Economic and Social Development -Sustainable Development, Poverty, Inclusion, Demographics, Social Sector initiatives, etc. General issues on Environmental Ecology, Bio-diversity and Climate Change - that do not require subject specialisation General Science. Paper II- (200 marks) Duration: Two hours Comprehension Interpersonal skills including communication skills; Logical reasoning and analytical ability Decision-making and problem solving General mental ability Basic numeracy (numbers and their relations, orders of magnitude, etc. - Class X level), Data interpretation (charts, graphs, tables, data sufficiency etc. - Class X level) English Language Comprehension skills (Class X level). NOTE-1: Questions relating to English Language Comprehension skills of Class X level (last item in the Syllabus of Paper-II) will be tested through passages from English language

only without providing Hindi translation thereof in the question paper. NOTE-2: The questions will be of multiple choice, objective type. NOTE-3: Penalty for wrong answers: There will be penalty (negative marking) for wrong answers marked by a candidate in the objective type question papers except some of the questions where the negative marking will be in built in the form of different marks being awarded to most appropriate and not so appropriate answer for such questions. (i) There are four alternatives for the answers to every question. For each question for which a wrong answer has been given by the candidate, one third (0.33) of the marks assigned to that question will be deducted as penalty. (ii) If a candidate gives more than one answer, it will be treated as a wrong answer even if one of the given answers happens to be correct and there will be same penalty as above for that question. (iii) If a question is left blank i.e. no answer is given by the candidate, there will be no penalty for that question. NOTE-4: Use black ball pen only Since the answer sheets will be evaluated on computerised machines, candidates should exercise due care in handling and filling up the answer sheets. They should use Black Ball Pen only to darken the circles and for writing in boxes. Since the entries made by the candidates by darkening the circles will be taken into account while evaluating the answer sheets on computerised machines, they should make these entries very carefully.

PART-B: MAIN EXAMINATION

The main Examination is intended to assess the overall intellectual traits and depth of understanding of candidates rather than merely the range of their information and memory. The nature and standard of questions in the General Studies papers ( Paper I I to Paper V) will be such that a well-educated person will be able to answer them without any specialized study. The questions will be such as to test a candidates general awareness of a variety of subjects, which will have relevance for a career in Civil Services. The questions are likely to test the candidates basic understanding of all relevant issues, and ability to analyze, and take a view on conflicting socio- economic goals, objectives and demands. The candidates must give relevant, meaningful and succinct answers. The scope of the syllabus for optional subject papers (Paper VI and Paper VII) for the examination is broadly of the honours degree level i.e. a level higher than the bachelors degree and lower than the masters degree. In the case of Engineering, Medical Science and law, the level corresponds to the bachelors degree.
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Syllabi of the papers included in the scheme of Civil Services (Main) Examination are given as follows:PAPER-I Essay: Candidates will be required to write an essay on a specific topic. The choice of subjects will be given. They will be expected to keep closely to the subject of the essay to arrange their ideas in orderly fashion, and to write concisely. Credit will be given for effective and exact expression. English Comprehension & English Precis will be to test the English language Comprehension and English prcis writing skills (at 10th standard level). PAPER-II General Studies- I: Indian Heritage and Culture, History and Geography of the World and Society. Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times. Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the present- significant events,
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Alternative Learning Systems

Syllabi for the Examination as per UPSC Notification

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personalities, issues The Freedom Struggle - its various stages and important contributors /contributions from different parts of the country. Post-independence consolidation and reorganization within the country. ? History of the world willinclude events from 18th century such as industrial revolution, world wars, redrawal of national boundaries, colonization, decolonization, political philosophies like communism, capitalism, socialism etc.- their forms and effect on the society. Salient features of Indian Society, Diversity of India. Role of women and womens organization, population and associated issues, poverty and developmental issues, urbanization, their problems and their remedies. Effects of globalization on Indian society Social empowerment, communalism, regionalism & secularism. Salient features of worlds physical geography. Distribution of key natural resources across the world (including South Asia and the Indian subcontinent); factors responsible for the location of primary, secondary, and tertiary sector industries in various parts of the world (including India) Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc., geographical features and their location- changes in critical geographical features (including waterbodies and ice-caps) and in flora and fauna and the effects of such changes.

development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Development processes and the development industry- the role of NGOs, SHGs, various groups and associations, donors, charities, institutional and other stakeholders Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes; mechanisms, laws, institutions and Bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections. Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources. Issues relating to poverty and hunger. Important aspects of governance, transparency and accountability, e-governance- applications, models, successes, limitations, and potential; citizens charters, transparency & accountability and institutional and other measures. Role of civil services in a democracy. India and its neighborhood- relations. Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting Indias interests Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on Indias interests, Indian diaspora. Important International institutions, agencies and foratheir structure, mandate.

PAPER-III General Studies-II: Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice and International relations. Indian Constitution- historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure. Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure, devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein. Separation of powers between various organs dispute redressal mechanisms and institutions. Comparison of the Indian constitutional scheme with that of other countries Parliament and State Legislatures - structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these. Structure, organization and functioning of the Executive and the Judiciary Ministries and Departments of the Government; pressure groups and formal/informal associations and their role in the Polity. Salient features of the Representation of Peoples Act. Appointment to various Constitutional posts, powers, functions and responsibilities of various Constitutional Bodies. Statutory, regulatory and various quasi-judicial bodies Government policies and interventions for
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PAPER-IV General Studies-III: Technology, Economic Development, Bio diversity, Environment, Security and Disaster Management. Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment. Inclusive growth and issues arising from it. Government Budgeting. Major crops cropping patterns in various parts of the country, different types of irrigation and irrigation systems storage, transport and marketing of agricultural produce and issues and related constraints; e-technology in the aid of farmers Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies and minimum support prices; Public Distribution System- objectives, functioning, limitations, revamping; issues of buffer stocks and food security; Technology missions; economics of animal-rearing. Food processing and related industries in India- scope and significance, location, upstream and downstream requirements, supply chain management. Land reforms in India. Effects of liberalization on the economy, changes in industrial policy and their effects on industrial growth. Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc. Investment models.
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Syllabi for the Examination as per UPSC Notification

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Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life Achievements of Indians in science & technology; indigenization of technology and developing new technology. Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, robotics, nano-technology, bio-technology and issues relating to intellectual property rights. Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment Disaster and disaster management. Linkages between development and spread of extremism. Role of external state and non-state actors in creating challenges to internal security. Challenges to internal security through communication networks, role of media and social networking sites in internal security challenges, basics of cyber security; money-laundering and its prevention Security challenges and their management in border areas; linkages of organized crime with terrorism Various Security forces and agencies and their mandate

PAPER-V General Studies-IV: Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude This paper will include questions to test the candidates attitude and approach to issues relating to integrity, probity in public life and his problem solving approach to various issues and conflicts faced by him in dealing with society. Questions may utilise the case study approach to determine these aspects. The following broad areas will be covered. Ethics and Human Interface: Essence, determinants and consequences of Ethics in human actions; dimensions of ethics; ethics in private and public relationships. Human Values lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders, reformers and administrators; role of family, society and educational

institutions in inculcating values. Attitude: content, structure, function; its influence and relation with thought and behaviour; moral and political attitudes; social influence and persuasion. Aptitude and foundational values for Civil Service, integrity, impartia lity and non-pa rtisans hip, objectivity, dedication to public service, empathy, tolerance a nd compassion towards the weakersections. Emotional intelligence-concepts, and their utilities and application in administration and governance. Contributions of moral thinkers and philosophers from India and world. Public/Civil service values and Ethics in Public administration: Status and problems; ethical concerns and dilemmas in government and private institutions; laws, rules, regulations and conscience as sources of ethical guidance; accountability and ethical governance; strengthening of ethical and moral values in governance; ethical issues in international relations and funding; corporate governance. Probity in Governance: Concept of public service; Philosophical basis of governance and probity; Information sharing and transparency in government, Right to Information, Codes of Ethics, Codes of Conduct, Citizens Charters, Work culture, Quality of service delivery, Utilization of public funds, challenges of corruption. Case Studies on above issues.

PAPER-VI & PAPER VII Optional Subject Papers I & II Candidates may choose any optional subject from amongst the list of subjects given in para 2 (Group 1). However, if a candidate has graduated in any of the literatures of languages indicated in Group-2 , with the literature as the main subject, then the candidate can also opt for that particular literature subject as an optional subject.

PART-C: INTERVIEW The candidate will be interviewed by a Board who will have before them a record of his/her career. He/she will be asked questions on matters of general interest. The object of the interview is to assess the personal suitability of the candidate for a career in public service by a Board of competent and unbiased observers. The test is intended to judge the mental calibre of a candidate. In broad terms this is really an assessment of not only his intellectual qualities but also social traits and his interest in current affairs. Some of the qualities to be judged are mental alertness, critical powers of assimilation, clear and logical exposition, balance of judgement, variety and depth of interest, ability for social cohesion and leadership, intellectual and moral integrity. The technique of the interview is not that of a strict cross-examination but of a natural, though directed and purposive conversation which is intended to reveal the mental qualities of the candidate. The interview test is not intended to be a test either of the specialised or general knowledge of the candidates which has been already tested through their written papers. Candidates are expected to have taken an intelligent interest not only in their special subjects of academic study but also in the events which are happening around them both within and outside their own state or country as well as in modern currents of thought and in new discoveries which should rouse the curiosity of well educated youth.

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ALS

Alternative Learning Systems

The Programme in the Eyes of Toppers

Rukmani Riar

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Rank 2 (IAS 2011) I owe my success to the ALS team for guiding me throughout my journey. My dream is a reality today because of proficiency and expertise of the teachers at ALS and their immense faith in their students. I take this opportunity to acknowledge the contribution of Jojo Mathew Sir, Manish Gautam Sir, Arunesh Sir, Arbind Sir and the entire faculty who helped me in realising my potentials. The dedication and commitment of the teachers at ALS and their ability to make the classes so interesting is a superlative effort which is unmatched.I am deeply indebted to them for giving me knowledge which has helped me shape my dreams and in making me capable of achieving them. ALS conducts regular tests which are very helpful in generating confidence and in attempting the CSE exam with excellence. The monthly magazine Competition Wizard is very useful for the CSE aspirants. Regular reading of Competition Wizard has helped me exceedingly in attempting the Mains General Studies papers and the Essay. In all my experience with ALS has been enriching and memorable and I shall cherish my time spent here for all times to come. My message to all the aspirants is that there is no short-cut to success and there is no substitute to hard work. Dreams come true....have the courage and determination to pursue them.

Mukesh Pandey
Rank 14 (IAS 2011) I had a very positive and enriching experience at ALS, and I found its classes and faculty to be very helpful during my preparation. ALS played a very crucial role in my success, especially with regards to my GS preparation. It provided me with valuable guidance, motivation and quality study materials which greatly lessened the burden of preparing for this exam. Everything is so very well organized at ALS that one feels completely relaxed while attending the classes. It offers a pre-planned fixed routine and usually stays true to the original schedule. The learning environment and the various multimedia aids used to teach are outstanding. It is the best institute in terms of infrastructure. Coupled with that, it has a legendary faculty led by the inimitable Jojo Mathew Sir. A star orator in every respect, he toys with his subjects and makes one aware of the nittygritty of the exam. His store of useful practical knowledge about this exam is amazing and he has the remarkable ability of making you laugh while you learn. He is a master of satire and witty repartee. His classes for the interview preparation are brilliant. Manish Gautam Sirs lucid way of dealing with national & international issues and providing an in-depth analysis is peerless. He is a great motivator and is always eager to help. Arunesh Sirs expertise over economic issues is simply brilliant and KK Reddy Sirs rapid historical perspective in a nutshell works wonders. The Competition Wizard magazine is a treasure trove of information and contains very well written articles on the current issues of importance. It is a must read for all aspirants. Its special issues before the Prelim and the Main are also very helpful. I had a wonderful and fruitful time at ALS and I would like to thank its faculty and management staff for their efficient and outstanding work! My sincere thanks and best wishes to ALS.

Ajay Katesaria
Rank 28 (IAS 2011) I am deeply indebted to ALS for the support and assistance which I got during my preparation. The guidance and friendly support of Jojo Mathew Sir, Arunesh Singh Sir and Manish Gautam Sir was unparallel. It helped me greatly in my General Studies preparation. During the mock interview, the feedback of Shashank Atom Sir did miracle and helped me to manage a high score in my interview. I express my gratitude to the entire faculty and hope they will continue with their noble endeavour to enlighten future IAS aspirants.
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ALS

Alternative Learning Systems

The Programme in the Eyes of Toppers

Pulkit Khare

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Rank 5 (IAS 2010) Apart from the theoretical inputs, I think ALS scores over others in providing extensive and regular answer-writing practice. The simulations at class build confidence and help to analyze mistakes and modify the approach in handling the questions dealing with varied topics in the exam. Jojo Mathew Sirs focus on time bound answer-writing helps in dealing with the changing trend of questions in the GS paper. His Backgrounder Classes are unique and lay a firm foundation for a beginner for better understanding of emerging issues. Arunesh Sirs approach helps in simplifying the economic jargons and bringing greater clarity in tackling different aspects of questions asked in this Exam. ALS excels in: Schedule bound coverage of relevant topics in a planned manner. Exhaustive coverage of National, International and Bilateral issues with finer analysis. All this is aided by excellent learning environment using state-of-the-art multimedia & videos techniques, along with regularly updated hand-outs.

Ajay Prakash
Rank 9 (IAS 2010) It gives me great pleasure to inform you that I have secured the 9th Rank in the Civil Services Exam 2010. I would like to dedicate my success to ALS, because it would not have been possible without the constant support and guidance that I received from the Institute. I am especially indebted to Jojo Mathew Sir and Manish Gautam Sir both of whom were always there to help me, and provided me emotional as well as intellectual support to clear this exam. I am also indebted to the excellent ALS faculty including Arunesh Sir, Reddy Sir, Panda Sir, S Shekhar Sir, S Sahoo Sir, A K Singh Sir and other staff members who worked tirelessly for my success. Hope, ALS continues to churn out outstanding results in the future too. I wish all the best to ALS students for future Exams.

Hephsiba Rani Korlapati

Rank 20 (IAS 2010) I am grateful to the faculty and staff at ALS for the support I received throughout the preparation for CSE-2010. Classes at ALS gave me a sense of discipline and writing practice provided me tremendous confidence in writing Main examinations. Time Management - is what I learnt at ALS. Apart from The Hindu, I depended only on the Wizard magazine for current affairs, both monthly and annual issues. The Annual issue is perfect for final revision - and I read the 2010 issues for Prelim and Main word to word, from cover to cover. The learning process at ALS is interactive, innovative and wholesome and contributes to success in a big way. Special thanks to Jojo Mathew Sir, Shashank Sir and everyone in the ALS team.
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The Programme through the Eyes of the Toppers

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Anupama T V
Rank 4 (IAS 2010) At ALS things go as per a plan - this is something not so common nowadays. Syllabus was thoroughly covered in time and adequate number of tests were conducted. Teachers were always available to everyone for feedbacks and clearing doubts. Moreover, the way they simplified things and motivated us gave me the feeling that I can make it, in the very first month of classes at ALS!

Saswati Dey
Rank 7 (IAS 2010) The reputation of ALS in Civil Services Exam training had taken me there. As a member there, I felt a personal touch to the guidance process. An organized method of teaching, a professional approach and wonderful faculty along with the support staff, have made ALS a special institution.

Smita Sarangi
Rank 15 (IAS 2008) I did General Studies from ALS right from the scratch i.e. from PT till Interview. Three things I would like to highlight about ALS, which attracted me immensely The Personal Guidance I received from the Institute especially from Jojo Mathew Sir. I found Printed Course Material very precise, meticulously designed and extremely useful. The emphasis given on Time Management and Consistency in study helped me a lot.

A. Anto Alphonse
Rank 42 (IAS 2008) I did General Studies and Geography from ALS The greatest contribution to my personality by ALS was that, I learnt to empathise with the poor. They dont just teach subjects, but teach life. Polity classes by Jojo Sir taught me to be pro-poor, pro-women and pro-democracy. I developed the habit to prepare every word of my bio-data for the Interview, from Jojo Sirs class, which fetched me very good marks. I owe greatly to the Mains Test Series Programme, which helped me improve my writing skills to complete the papers well in time, without compromising upon the quality of answers.
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Alternative Learning Systems

The Programme through the Eyes of the Toppers

Aishwarya Singh
Rank 27 (IAS 2008)

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I did General Studies and Geography from ALS. I received a qualitative guidance, which was highly interactive and focused, with due personal attention. I believe that, in this respect, ALS truly justified its name. I am grateful for ever-approachable and helpful faculty, especially Jojo Sir. His strategy of handling each stage of the exam process was extremely useful. The exhaustive coverage of current issues, regular answer writing practice coupled with an excellent teaching methodology played a major role in my success.

Viswanathan S
Rank 34 (IAS 2008) I did General Studies and Geography from ALS. ALS is a reliable and excellent institute for : Its orientation towards the examination approach. Its holistic guidance for entire course from the Preliminary till the Interview. Constant motivation, Time bound commitment and right strategy helped me to accomplish the task. Constructive Professionalism, personal guidance and complete dedication towards the students.

Roopa Roshan
Rank 11 (IAS 2005-06) I am grateful to ALS and I will give very specific reasons. The coverage of the syllabus was extensive and paid me like anything. Whatever was discussed in the classroom sessions alongwith the study material provided made all the difference. While entering the exam hall, the kind of faith I had in my mentors that I could write all the questions. Everything clicked. And I emerged successful.

Dr Arushi Choudhary
Rank 16 (IAS 2004-05) Coaching Institutes, if wisely chosen, can play a very important role in shaping your life. But at the same time various coaching institutes are mushrooming and one should be extra cautious in choosing one. One should talk to a number of friends and seniors before choosing. And in my experience, I can say ALS is the best place to study GS and Geography.

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Updated Tuesday 30/04/2013