NIRD

Eligibility Criteria

• Educational Qualification: Candidates must have completed a Bachelor's degree in any discipline from a recognized university. For some specialized courses, a Master's degree or relevant professional degree may be required.
• Age Limit: Usually, there is no upper age limit for most courses. Some programs may specify age criteria which are mentioned in specific notifications.
• Nationality: Candidates must be Indian nationals. Some courses may allow foreign nationals with special permission.

Exam Pattern

• Mode of Exam: The entrance exam for NIRD is generally conducted offline (pen and paper-based), though some courses may be conducted online depending on the program and year.
• Number of Questions: Typically ranges between 100 to 150 questions.
• Marking Scheme: Generally 1 mark per question; some exams may have negative marking for incorrect answers (usually -0.25).
• Subjects Covered:
  • Rural Development and Management
  • General Knowledge and Current Affairs
  • Quantitative Aptitude
  • English Language and Comprehension
  • Analytical Reasoning and Logical Ability
• Exam Schedule:
  • Notification Release: Usually published in the months of March to May.
  • Exam Month: Typically conducted between June and July.
  • Exact dates are updated annually on the official website.

Syllabus

• Rural Development and Management: Concepts of rural development, rural economy, agricultural economics, rural infrastructure, Panchayati Raj institutions.
• General Knowledge & Current Affairs: National and international current events, Indian polity, history, geography related to rural development.
• Quantitative Aptitude: Number systems, percentages, ratio and proportion, data interpretation, time and work, averages, arithmetic problems.
• English Language and Comprehension: Vocabulary, grammar, sentence correction, comprehension passages, verbal ability.
• Analytical Reasoning and Logical Ability: Series completion, coding-decoding, puzzles, blood relations, seating arrangement, logical sequences.

Application Process

1. Visit the official NIRDPR website.
2. Navigate to the 'Admission' or 'Entrance Exam' section.
3. Register by providing a valid email ID and mobile number.
4. Fill out the online application form with accurate personal and academic details.
5. Upload necessary documents such as photograph, signature, and certificates.
6. Pay the application fee through online modes like credit/debit card, net banking.
7. Submit the form and take a printout for future reference.

Courses Offered

• Post Graduate Diploma in Rural Development Management (PGDRDM)
• Ph.D. Programs in Rural Development
• Short-term Certificate Courses on Rural Development and Governance
• Other specialized training programs related to rural development and Panchayati Raj

Facts About the Entrance Exam

• Highly competitive with candidates from across India.
• Focuses on rural development knowledge along with general aptitude.
• Integral for admission into prestigious rural development courses offered by NIRDPR.

Admit Card

• Will be available on the official website approximately 2 weeks before the exam.
• Download by logging in with registration credentials.
• Key instructions include:
  • Carry the admit card and a valid photo ID to the exam center.
  • No electronic devices allowed inside the examination hall.
  • Report at least 30 minutes prior to the exam start time.

Results & Cut-Offs

• Results are published on the official website.
• Cut-off marks vary each year depending on the number of candidates and difficulty level.
• Candidates can check results by entering their roll number or registration number.
• Shortlisted candidates are called for further stages such as interviews or group discussions.

Preparation Tips

• Create a detailed study plan covering all syllabus topics.
• Refer to standard books such as:
  • "Rural Development" by Katar Singh
  • "Quantitative Aptitude" by R.S. Aggarwal
  • "Indian Polity" by M. Laxmikanth
• Practice previous years' question papers and mock tests.
• Stay updated with current affairs related to rural development and governance.
• Utilize online platforms for additional practice and current affairs updates.

FAQs

• Q: Is there any age relaxation?
  A: Generally, there is no upper age limit but refer to specific course notifications for details.
• Q: Can foreign nationals apply?
  A: In some cases, yes, with prior permission.
• Q: Is there any negative marking?
  A: Some papers have a negative marking of 0.25 marks for wrong answers.
• Q: What is the mode of exam?
  A: Usually offline, but check official updates for any changes.
• Q: How to get the admit card?
  A: Download it online from the official website using login credentials.