The Ultimate Guide to the NABARD Grade B Syllabus (2024)

Are you dreaming of a career in rural development and banking? The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) Grade B exam is a prestigious opportunity. But to succeed, you need a solid understanding of the NABARD Grade B Syllabus. This comprehensive guide breaks down the NABARD Grade B Syllabus in simple terms, making it easy for anyone to understand, even if you are in 8th standard. We’ll cover everything from the exam pattern to detailed subject-wise topics, ensuring you’re well-prepared. This guide is your one-stop shop for everything related to the NABARD Grade B Syllabus.

What is NABARD?

NABARD is a special bank in India that helps farmers and people living in villages. They give loans and support various projects to improve rural areas. Working at NABARD means you get to contribute to the development of our country. The NABARD Grade B Syllabus is designed to test your knowledge and skills needed for this important role.

NABARD Grade B Notification 2024 :- CLICK HERE

Understanding the NABARD Grade B Exam Pattern

Before diving into the NABARD Grade B Syllabus, it’s crucial to understand the exam pattern. The exam is conducted in three phases:

1. Prelims: This is the first screening test.
2. Mains: Those who clear Prelims appear for the Mains exam.
3. Interview: Finally, shortlisted candidates are called for a personal interview.

1. NABARD Grade B Prelims Exam Pattern

The Preliminary Exam is an online objective test that serves as a screening round. Only candidates who clear this stage are eligible for the Mains Exam. The detailed pattern for Phase 1 is as follows:

Section	Number of Questions	Marks	Time Allocated
Test of Reasoning	20	20	Composite Time
English Language	30	30	Composite Time
Computer Knowledge	20	20	Composite Time
Quantitative Aptitude	20	20	Composite Time
Decision Making	10	10	Composite Time
General Awareness	20	20	Composite Time
Economic and Social Issues (ESI)	40	40	Composite Time
Agriculture and Rural Development (ARD)	40	40	Composite Time
Total	200	200	120 minutes

Key Points:

1. The total duration of the exam is 120 minutes (2 hours).
2. Each section carries equal weightage, so focus on all subjects during preparation.
3. There is negative marking for wrong answers, typically 0.25 marks per incorrect response.

2. NABARD Grade B Mains Exam Pattern

The Mains Exam evaluates the in-depth knowledge of candidates in agriculture, rural development, and economic topics. This phase consists of two objective papers and one descriptive paper.

Paper	Subject	Type of Paper	No. of Qs.	Marks	Duration	Remarks
Paper I	General English	Online Descriptive	3	100	90 Minutes	Descriptive Answers to be typed using keyboard
Paper II	Economic and Social Issues	Objective	30	50	30 Minutes	–
	–	Descriptive Type	6 questions will be asked, of which candidates will be required to attempt 4 questions [2 of 15 marks each (with difficulty level) and 2 of 10 marks each]	50	90 Minutes	Descriptive Answers to be typed using keyboard either in English or Hindi (Remington and Inscript keyboards)
Total	–	–	–	100	120 Minutes	–
Paper III	Development Economics, Statistics, Finance and Management	Objective	30	50	30 Minutes	–
	–	Descriptive Type	6 questions will be asked, of which candidates will be required to attempt 4 questions [2 of 15 marks each (with difficulty level) and 2 of 10 marks each]	50	90 Minutes	Descriptive Answers to be typed using keyboard either in English or Hindi (Remington and Inscript keyboards)
Total	–	–	–	100	120 Minutes	–

Key Points:

1. Objective Papers: Both ESI and ARD consist of multiple-choice questions (MCQs), requiring detailed subject knowledge.
2. Descriptive Paper: Tests your ability to communicate effectively in English through writing essays, precis, and letters.
3. Candidates must perform well in both the objective and descriptive sections to qualify for the next round.

NABARD Grade B Phase 3: Interview

The Interview is the final phase of the NABARD Grade B selection process. This stage assesses the candidate’s overall personality, subject knowledge, and suitability for the role of Manager.

Component	Marks
Personal Interview	75 Marks

Key Points:

1. Candidates are evaluated on their confidence, communication skills, and understanding of NABARD’s role in rural development.
2. A sound knowledge of agriculture, rural policies, and economics is essential.

Final Selection

The final merit list is prepared based on the combined marks of Phase 2 (Mains) and Phase 3 (Interview). The Prelims score is not considered in the final selection.

Phase	Weightage
Mains Exam	75%
Interview	25%

By understanding the NABARD Grade B exam pattern, you can structure your preparation effectively and increase your chances of success!

Detailed NABARD Grade B Syllabus

Now, let’s delve into the detailed NABARD Grade B Syllabus 2024 for each phase.

1. NABARD Grade B Syllabus for Prelims

The Phase 1: Preliminary Exam for NABARD Grade B is the first step in the selection process. It is a screening test that evaluates candidates’ general aptitude and subject-specific knowledge. The syllabus is divided into seven key sections. Each section requires focused preparation to secure the qualifying marks. Below is the detailed syllabus for NABARD Grade B Phase 1.

1. Test of Reasoning

This section measures logical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and analytical skills.

Key Topics	Detail
Seating Arrangements	• Circular, Linear, and Complex Arrangements
Puzzles	• Floor-Based, Box-Based, Scheduling Problems
Syllogism	• Traditional and Reverse Syllogism
Blood Relations	• Family Tree, Coded Relationships
Direction Sense Test	• Distance and Direction, Complex Paths
Inequalities	• Coded and Mathematical Inequalities
Input-Output	• Pattern-Based Questions
Coding-Decoding	• New and Old Pattern
Data Sufficiency	• Logical Reasoning and Quantitative Questions

2. English Language

This section tests comprehension and language proficiency.

Key Topics	Detail
Reading Comprehension	• Questions based on a passage
Error Spotting	• Grammatical and Sentence Structure Errors
Fill in the Blanks	• Vocabulary and Grammar-Based
Para Jumbles	• Rearranging Sentences to Form a Coherent Paragraph
Sentence Improvement	• Grammar and Syntax Correction
Cloze Test	• Passage Completion with Fill-in-the-Blanks
Vocabulary	• Synonyms, Antonyms, Idioms, and Phrases

3. Computer Knowledge

This section evaluates basic computer skills and familiarity with digital tools.

Key Topics	Detail
Fundamentals of Computers	• Input-Output Devices, Hardware, and Software
Operating Systems	• Basics of Windows, Linux, and MacOS
MS Office Suite	• Word, Excel, PowerPoint Basics
Internet and Networking	• Concepts of LAN, WAN, Email, and Browsers
Cybersecurity	• Safe Practices, Malware, and Phishing
Computer Abbreviations	• Common IT Terms and Definitions

4. Quantitative Aptitude

This section measures mathematical and numerical problem-solving skills.

Key Topics	Detail
Number Series	• Missing and Wrong Numbers
Simplification and Approximation	• BODMAS Rules and Quick Calculations
Data Interpretation (DI)	• Bar Graphs, Pie Charts, Line Graphs, and Tables
Arithmetic	• Percentage • Profit and Loss • Simple and Compound Interest • Averages • Ratios and Proportions • Time, Speed, and Distance • Time and Work
Algebra	• Basic Equations and Quadratic Problems
Mensuration	• Area, Volume, and Perimeter of Shapes

5. General Awareness

This section focuses on current affairs and general knowledge.

Key Topics	Detail
Current Events	• National, International, Economic, and Sports News
Banking Awareness	• Basics of Banking, NABARD’s Role, and Functions
Government Schemes	• PM-KISAN, PMGSY, Rural Development Programs
Static GK	• Indian History Geography, and Polity • Important Days and Dates • Books and Authors • Awards and Honors

6. Economic and Social Issues (ESI)

This is a critical section directly related to NABARD’s operations and rural development.

Key Topics	Detail
Indian Economy	• Growth and Development • Economic Reforms • Inflation, GDP, and Budget Basics
Social Issues	• Poverty, Unemployment, and Rural Development • Health and Education Policies • Gender Issues and Social Inclusion
Government Schemes and Policies	• Focus on Rural Development Programs

7. Agriculture and Rural Development (ARD)

This section is the backbone of NABARD exams, as it tests candidates’ knowledge of rural and agricultural sectors.

Key Topics	Detail
Agriculture	• Agronomy, Soil Science, and Crop Production • Irrigation Techniques and Systems • Horticulture and Forestry Basics • Animal Husbandry and Dairy Farming • Agricultural Economics and Market Systems
Rural Development	• Role of NABARD in Rural Development • Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF) • Financial Inclusion Programs
Current Developments	• Recent advancements in agriculture and rural development

Preparation Tips for NABARD Grade B Phase 1 Syllabus

1. Prioritize ESI and ARD: These sections carry the highest weightage and are crucial for clearing the cut-off.
2. Stay Updated with Current Affairs: Regularly read newspapers and focus on economic and rural development news.
3. Practice Mock Tests: This will improve time management and accuracy across all sections.
4. Strengthen Basics: Revise fundamental concepts in reasoning, mathematics, and computer knowledge.
5. Focus on Government Schemes: Learn details about rural development and agricultural schemes launched by the Indian government.

By mastering the NABARD Grade B Phase 1 syllabus, you can increase your chances of clearing the Preliminary Exam and advancing to Phase 2!

NABARD Grade B Syllabus :- CLICK HERE

2. NABARD Grade B Syllabus for Mains

The Phase 2: Mains Exam of NABARD Grade B is a critical stage that tests candidates on their expertise in economic, social, agricultural, and rural development topics. It also assesses communication skills through descriptive English. This phase comprises three papers, and the syllabus for each paper is outlined below in detail.

Paper 1: English (Online Descriptive Paper)

This NABARD Grade B Syllabus for English (Descriptive) paper 3 evaluates writing skills and the ability to communicate effectively through essays, precis, and formal letters.

Key Topics	Detail
Essay Writing	• Topics related to rural development, agriculture, social issues, and economics. Examples: “Role of NABARD in Rural Credit,” “Impact of Climate Change on Indian Agriculture.”
Precis Writing	• Summarizing a given passage concisely while retaining the core message.
Letter Writing	• Formal letters, such as letters to government officials or proposals for rural projects.

Paper 2: Economic & Social Issues and Agriculture & Rural Development

This NABARD Grade B Syllabus for Economic and Social Issues (ESI) paper 1 evaluates candidates’ understanding of economic concepts, social issues, and government schemes relevant to India’s development.

2.1. Economic & Social Issues

Subject	Topics
Nature of Indian Economy	• Structural and Institutional features • Economic underdevelopment • Opening up the Indian Economy • Globalisation • Economic Reforms in India • Privatisation.
Inflation	• Trends in Inflation & their Impact on National Economy and Individual Income.
Employment Generation in India	• Rural and Urban • Measurement of Poverty • Poverty Alleviation Programmes of the Government.
Population Trends	• Population Growth and Economic Development • Population Policy in India.
Agriculture	• Characteristics / Status • Technical and Institutional changes in Indian Agriculture • Agricultural performance • Issues in Food Security in India • Non Institutional and Institutional Agencies in rural credit.
Industry	• Industrial and Labour Policy • Industrial performance • Regional Imbalance in India’s Industrial Development • Public Sector Enterprises.
Rural banking and financial institutions in India	• Reforms in Banking/ Financial sector.
Globalisation of Economy	• Role of International Funding Institutions • IMF & World Bank • WTO • Regional Economic Co-operation.
Social Structure in India	• Multiculturalism • Demographic trends • Urbanisation and Migration • Gender Issues Joint family system • Social Infrastructure • Education • Health and Environment.
Education	• Status & System of Education • Socio -Economic Problems associated with Illiteracy • Educational relevance and educational wastage • Educational Policy for India.
Social Justice	• Problems of scheduled castes and scheduled tribes • socio-economic programmes for scheduled castes and scheduled tribes and other backward classes.
Positive Discrimination in favour of the under privileged	• Social Movements • Indian Political Systems • Human Development. Current Economic & Social Issues.

2.2. Agriculture and Rural Development:

This NABARD Grade B Syllabus for Agriculture and Rural Development (ARD) paper 2 tests subject knowledge specific to agriculture and rural development, which is central to NABARD’s mission.

Subject	Topics
Agriculture	Agriculture (definition, branches, agronomy), Classification of field crops, Factors affecting crop production, Agro Climatic Zones, Cropping Systems, Problems of dry land agriculture, Seed production and processing, Meteorology, Precision Farming, System of Crop Intensification, Organic farming.
Soil and Water Conservation	Major soil types, soil fertility, fertilizers, soil erosion, soil conservation, watershed management.
Water Resource	Irrigation Management: types of irrigation, sources of irrigation, crop-water requirement, command area development, water conservation techniques, micro-irrigation, irrigation-pumps, major, medium and minor irrigation.
Farm and Agri Engineering	Farm Machinery and Power, Sources of power on the farm (human, animal, mechanical, electrical, wind, solar, biomass), bio fuels, water harvesting structures, farm ponds, watershed management, Agro Processing, Controlled and modified storage, perishable food storage, godowns, bins, and grain silos.
Plantation & Horticulture	Definition, meaning and its branches. Agronomic practices and production technology of various plantation and horticulture crops. Post-harvest management, value and supply chain management of Plantation and Horticulture crops.
Animal Husbandry	Farm animals and their role in Indian economy, Animal husbandry methods in India, common terms pertaining to different species of livestock, Utility classification of breeds of cattle. Introduction to common feeds and fodders, their classification and utility. Introduction to poultry industry in India (past, present and future status), Common terms pertaining to poultry production and management. Concept of mixed farming and its relevance to socio-economic conditions of farmers in India. Complimentary and obligatory nature of livestock and poultry production with that of agricultural farming.
Fisheries	Fisheries resources, management and exploitation – freshwater, brackishwater and marine; Aquaculture- Inland and marine; biotechnology; post-harvest technology. Importance of fisheries in India. Common terms pertaining to fish production.
Forestry	Basic concepts of Forest and Forestry. Principles of silviculture, forest mensuration, forest management and forest economics. Concepts of social forestry, agroforestry, joint forest management. Forest policy and legislation in India, India State of Forest Report 2015. Recent developments under Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
Agriculture Extension	Its importance and role, methods of evaluation of extension programmes, Role of Krishi Vigyan Kendra’s (KVK) in dissemination of Agricultural technologies. i) Ecology and Climate Change: Ecology and its relevance to man, natural resources, their sustainable management and conservation. Causes of climate change, Green House Gases (GHG), major GHG emitting countries, climate analysis, distinguish between adaptation and mitigation, climate change impact to agriculture and rural livelihood, carbon credit, IPCC, UNFCCC, CoP meetings, funding mechanisms for climate change projects, initiatives by Govt of India, NAPCC, SAPCC, INDC. ii) Present Scenario of Indian Agriculture and Allied activities; recent trends, major challenges in agriculture measures to enhance viability of agriculture. Factors of Production in agriculture; Agricultural Finance and Marketing; Impact of Globalization on Indian Agriculture and issues of Food Security; Concept and Types of Farm Management.

2.3. Rural Development

Subject	Topics
Concept of Rural Area	Structure of the Indian Rural Economy Importance and role of the rural sector in India- Economic, Social and Demographic Characteristics of the Indian rural economy, causes of rural backwardness.
Rural population in India	Occupational structure, Farmers, Agricultural Labourers, Artisans, Handicrafts, Traders, Forest dwellers/tribes and others in rural India- Trends of change in rural population and rural work force; problems and conditions of rural labour, Issues and challenges in Handlooms.
Panchayati Raj Institutions	Functions and Working. MGNREGA, NRLM – Aajeevika, Rural Drinking water Programmes, Swachh Bharat, Rural housing, PURA and other rural development programmes.

Paper 3: Analytical Paper on Development Economics, Statistics, Finance and Management

Subject	Topics
Development Economics	Measures of development, Economic Development Models, role of subsidies, importance of savings and investment, Importance of agriculture, Terms of trade in agriculture, Development issues in India, Post 2015 Agenda.
Statistics	Basic statistical concepts, Summarizing of data, Frequency distribution, Measures of Central Tendency, Relative dispersion, Elementary Probability, Relative Frequency Approach, sampling, Axiomatic Approach, Analysis of frequency distribution, Correlation, Regression, Sampling Methods, Time Series Analysis.
Finance	Financial system in India, Regulation of Banks & Financial Institutions, Banking and financial Institutions in India, Financial system features and characteristics, Microfinance, Union Budget, Project finance, Infrastructure financing, Risk Management in Banking Sector, Sources of capital, Development finance, Concept of project cycle management, Financial Inclusion, Public Private Partnership.
Management	Nature and scope of management, Management processes, Planning, Organisation, Staffing, Directing, Controlling, Role of a Manager, Leadership, Human Resource Development, Communication, Corporate Governance.

Key Strategies to Prepare for NABARD Grade B Phase 2

1. Understand the Weightage: Focus on ESI and ARD, as these papers are objective and contribute significantly to the overall score.
2. Combine Static and Current Knowledge: For ESI and ARD, study both static concepts and current affairs related to the topics.
3. Improve Writing Skills: Practice descriptive writing regularly for Paper 3. Use clear, concise language to express ideas effectively.
4. Focus on NABARD-Related Topics: Study NABARD’s annual reports, rural development policies, and financial inclusion programs to align with the exam’s requirements.
5. Mock Tests and Time Management: Regularly attempt mock tests for all three papers to build accuracy and manage time efficiently during the exam.

By mastering the Phase 2 syllabus of NABARD Grade B, you can significantly improve your chances of clearing this crucial stage and securing a place in the final merit list.

NABARD Grade B Syllabus 2021 pdf Download :- CLICK HERE

How to Prepare for the NABARD Grade B Exam

Now that you understand the NABARD Grade B Syllabus, here are some tips to prepare effectively:

• Understand the Syllabus Thoroughly: The first step is to completely understand the NABARD Grade B Syllabus. This guide is a great starting point.
• Create a Study Plan: Make a realistic study plan and stick to it.
• Focus on Fundamentals: Build a strong foundation in basic concepts.
• Practice Regularly: Practice previous year’s question papers and mock tests.
• Stay Updated on Current Affairs: Read newspapers and follow reliable news sources.
• Revision is Key: Regularly revise what you have studied.
• Focus on Weak Areas: Identify your weak areas and work on improving them.
• Use Quality Study Material: Refer to standard textbooks and online resources.
• Time Management: Practice managing your time during the exam.

Tips for Scoring High in General Awareness

General Awareness plays a crucial role in both Prelims and Mains. Here are some tips to score well:

• Read Newspapers Daily: This will keep you updated on current events.
• Follow Reliable News Sources: Choose trustworthy news websites and channels.
• Make Notes: Make short notes of important events and facts.
• Focus on Economic and Social Issues: These are particularly important for the Mains exam.

Importance of Mock Tests

Mock tests are an essential part of your preparation. They help you:

• Understand the exam pattern and difficulty level.
• Identify your strengths and weaknesses.
• Improve your time management skills.
• Reduce exam anxiety.

Conclusion

Understanding the NABARD Grade B syllabus is the first step towards cracking the exam. By covering all sections and following the preparation tips mentioned in this article, you can confidently plan your studies. For updates and official notifications, stay tuned to NABARD’s website.

Preparing for the NABARD Grade B syllabus you build knowledge of subjects like economy and agriculture. Start your preparation today and give your best shot at becoming a NABARD Grade B Officer!

Frequently Answered Questions