The selection process for the IRDAI Junior Officer post typically involves three stages: Phase I (Preliminary Examination), Phase II (Descriptive Main Examination), and Phase III (Interview). The Phase I is an objective-type online examination consisting of sections such as Reasoning, Quantitative ARead more
The selection process for the IRDAI Junior Officer post typically involves three stages: Phase I (Preliminary Examination), Phase II (Descriptive Main Examination), and Phase III (Interview).
The Phase I is an objective-type online examination consisting of sections such as Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, English Language, and General Awareness, designed to test the candidate’s basic aptitude and awareness. This stage is qualifying in nature and is used to shortlist candidates for Phase II.
The Phase II is a descriptive paper, generally conducted online, that tests the candidate’s knowledge in areas such as English writing skills, Economic and Social Issues, and Insurance/Financial Sector-related topics. This phase carries significant weight in the final selection.
Candidates who qualify Phase II are called for the Interview, which assesses their personality, subject understanding, and suitability for the role.
Final selection is based on the combined performance in Phase II and Interview, and candidates must also meet the prescribed eligibility criteria in terms of education and age. The selection process may vary slightly based on the specific recruitment notification issued by IRDAI from time to time.
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Is SIDBI better than bank PO?
Whether SIDBI is better than a Bank PO (Probationary Officer) role depends on an individual’s career goals, work preferences, and long-term aspirations. SIDBI (Small Industries Development Bank of India) primarily focuses on the development and financing of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMERead more
Whether SIDBI is better than a Bank PO (Probationary Officer) role depends on an individual’s career goals, work preferences, and long-term aspirations. SIDBI (Small Industries Development Bank of India) primarily focuses on the development and financing of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), making it a niche development financial institution. It offers a more specialized and stable work environment with limited public dealing, fixed working hours, and a better work-life balance compared to most public sector banks. On the other hand, a Bank PO in PSU banks (like SBI, PNB, or BOB) is a generalist role that involves customer interaction, transfers to rural areas, extended working hours, and a broader range of responsibilities including deposits, loans, and compliance. While Bank PO jobs offer faster promotions and widespread branch networks, SIDBI offers a more corporate-style culture, limited transfers, and a focused growth path in development finance. So, for candidates seeking sector-specific expertise, work-life balance, and less hectic schedules, SIDBI may be the better choice, whereas those looking for a dynamic and fast-paced banking career with higher visibility and promotion chances might prefer the PO role.
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See lessIs there any sectional cut-off in SIDBI Grade A?
Yes, the SIDBI Grade A exam includes sectional cut-offs in addition to overall qualifying marks. In the Phase I objective test, candidates must achieve the minimum required score in each section—not just the total score—to be eligible for the next stage. For example, in previous years, general categRead more
Yes, the SIDBI Grade A exam includes sectional cut-offs in addition to overall qualifying marks. In the Phase I objective test, candidates must achieve the minimum required score in each section—not just the total score—to be eligible for the next stage. For example, in previous years, general category candidates needed specific minimum marks in sections like Quantitative Aptitude, Reasoning, English Language, and General Awareness to qualify, and these thresholds varied slightly for candidates from reserved categories. Similarly, in Phase II, the objective part also has sectional cut-offs, and only those who clear them will have their descriptive answers evaluated. Furthermore, candidates must also meet the cut-off marks in the descriptive section to be shortlisted for the interview round. Therefore, performing well across all sections is crucial to progress through each stage of the SIDBI Grade A selection process.
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See lessWhat is the SIDBI Grade A exam pattern?
The SIDBI Grade A (Assistant Manager) exam follows a three-stage selection process comprising an Online Objective Test, a Descriptive Test, and a Personal Interview. The first phase is the Online Objective Test, which is of 120 minutes duration and consists of seven sections: English Language, ReasoRead more
The SIDBI Grade A (Assistant Manager) exam follows a three-stage selection process comprising an Online Objective Test, a Descriptive Test, and a Personal Interview. The first phase is the Online Objective Test, which is of 120 minutes duration and consists of seven sections: English Language, Reasoning Aptitude, Quantitative Aptitude, Computer Knowledge, General Awareness (with a focus on Banking, Financial and Economic/Social Issues), MSME-related topics, and a Stream-Specific paper based on domain expertise. The exam is bilingual (English and Hindi, except the English section), and carries a total of 200 questions for 200 marks. Notably, the first four sections—English, Reasoning, Quantitative, and Computer Knowledge—are qualifying in nature, while the merit is determined based on the scores of the remaining sections. There is a negative marking of 0.25 marks for each incorrect answer.
The second phase includes both objective and descriptive components. The Descriptive English paper evaluates writing skills through essays and letter writing, carrying 75 marks to be attempted in 75 minutes. Additionally, a subject-specific paper on MSME/Finance knowledge consists of 50 objective questions for 75 marks and a descriptive section where candidates must answer 4 out of 10 questions, carrying 50 marks. These are designed to assess both knowledge and articulation on relevant financial and policy issues. Negative marking is applicable in the objective portion of this phase.
Candidates who clear the Phase II cut-offs proceed to the final stage, which includes a psychometric test (non-evaluative) followed by a personal interview carrying 50 marks. The final merit list is prepared by combining the marks scored in Phase II and the interview. Overall, the SIDBI Grade A exam pattern is designed to assess candidates’ aptitude, professional knowledge, and communication skills comprehensively.
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See lessWhat is the exam pattern, salary, and career growth for the SIDBI grade A post in 2025?
Exam Pattern (Phase I & II) Phase I – Objective Online Test: The paper includes 200 multiple-choice questions covering: 4 qualifying sections: Reasoning, English Language, Quantitative Aptitude, and Computer Knowledge. 3 merit-based sections: General Awareness, MSME-related topics, and Stream-SpRead more
Exam Pattern (Phase I & II)
Phase I – Objective Online Test:
The paper includes 200 multiple-choice questions covering:
4 qualifying sections: Reasoning, English Language, Quantitative Aptitude, and Computer Knowledge.
3 merit-based sections: General Awareness, MSME-related topics, and Stream-Specific Test.
Total duration: 120 minutes.
There is a ¼ mark negative marking for every incorrect answer.
Only the scores from General Awareness, MSME topics, and Stream-Specific Test are considered for shortlisting to the next stage, while the other four sections are qualifying in nature.
Phase II – Descriptive & Objective Test:
Paper 1 (English Language): Descriptive writing including essay, précis, and business correspondence.
3 questions, 75 marks, 75 minutes.
Paper 2 (Stream-Specific):
Objective Section: 50 questions, 75 marks, 60 minutes, based on MSME policy, financial norms, NPAs, and risk assessments.
Descriptive Section: 10 questions will be asked, and candidates must attempt 4 — 2 of 15 marks and 2 of 10 marks. Total 50 marks, 75 minutes.
Salary Details
The starting basic pay for a SIDBI Grade A officer is ₹44,500 per month.
After fixed increments over the years, the basic can increase up to ₹89,150.
Including allowances such as Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), Local Compensatory Allowance, Special Allowance, and others, the gross monthly salary comes to around ₹1,00,000.
The take-home salary, after deductions like taxes and NPS, is approximately ₹90,000 to ₹95,000 per month.
The annual Cost to Company (CTC) is estimated to be between ₹19–21 lakhs.
Career Growth
The SIDBI Grade A post is the entry-level managerial position.
With experience and good performance, officers can be promoted to Grade B (Manager), followed by Grade C, D, E, and F, eventually reaching positions like Chief General Manager or Executive Director.
Promotions are based on both seniority and performance.
Officers get opportunities to work in various departments such as MSME credit, risk management, policy formulation, finance, IT, and legal, providing broad exposure and leadership development.
In summary, the SIDBI Grade A role is a prestigious and well-paying government job offering excellent growth prospects, a structured promotion system, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in India’s MSME sector.
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See lessWhat is the main objective of SIDBI?
The main objective of SIDBI (Small Industries Development Bank of India) is to promote, finance, and develop Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in India. SIDBI plays a critical role in strengthening the MSME sector by providing them with financial and non-financial support, ensuring theirRead more
The main objective of SIDBI (Small Industries Development Bank of India) is to promote, finance, and develop Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in India. SIDBI plays a critical role in strengthening the MSME sector by providing them with financial and non-financial support, ensuring their sustainable growth and contribution to the Indian economy. By offering tailored credit products, refinancing facilities, equity support, and developmental assistance, SIDBI aims to empower small businesses to become globally competitive and economically viable.
In addition to financial assistance, SIDBI also focuses on policy advocacy, capacity building, skill development, innovation promotion, and fostering entrepreneurship across the country. It acts as a nodal agency for various government schemes related to MSMEs, helping bridge the gap between policy and implementation. Ultimately, SIDBI’s mission is to serve as a principal financial institution that fosters inclusive economic growth by nurturing India’s vast network of small businesses.
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See lessExamine the role of the Election Commission of India in ensuring free and fair elections. What challenges does it face in the present democratic setup?
The Election Commission of India (ECI) plays a crucial role in upholding the democratic framework by conducting free, fair, and transparent elections at the national and state levels. As an autonomous constitutional body, it is responsible for supervising the electoral process, enforcing the Model CRead more
The Election Commission of India (ECI) plays a crucial role in upholding the democratic framework by conducting free, fair, and transparent elections at the national and state levels. As an autonomous constitutional body, it is responsible for supervising the electoral process, enforcing the Model Code of Conduct, regulating political parties and candidates, monitoring campaign financing, and ensuring a level playing field. The ECI uses technology like EVMs and VVPATs to enhance transparency and speed in voting and counting. However, it faces several challenges in the current democratic setup, including increasing political polarization, misuse of money and muscle power, misinformation on social media, and allegations of bias or delayed action. There are also concerns over electoral reforms, criminalization of politics, and the need for stronger laws to curb hate speech and fake news. Strengthening institutional autonomy, transparency, and accountability is essential for the ECI to maintain public trust and ensure the integrity of India’s electoral process.
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See lessAnalyze the impact of inflation on common citizens and the Indian economy. What are the key policy measures taken by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to control inflation?
Inflation significantly affects both common citizens and the broader Indian economy. For the average person, rising prices reduce purchasing power, making essential goods like food, fuel, and healthcare more expensive and disproportionately impacting low- and middle-income households. For the economRead more
Inflation significantly affects both common citizens and the broader Indian economy. For the average person, rising prices reduce purchasing power, making essential goods like food, fuel, and healthcare more expensive and disproportionately impacting low- and middle-income households. For the economy, high inflation disrupts savings, investment, and business planning, while also increasing input costs and reducing export competitiveness. Persistent inflation can erode consumer confidence and lead to slower economic growth. To manage inflation, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) adopts a monetary policy framework with an inflation target of 4% (±2%) under the flexible inflation targeting regime. Key policy tools include adjusting the repo rate (currently the primary instrument), open market operations, cash reserve ratio (CRR), and statutory liquidity ratio (SLR). By raising interest rates, the RBI aims to curb excess money supply and reduce demand-driven inflation. Additionally, the RBI closely monitors global commodity prices, currency fluctuations, and domestic supply-side constraints to formulate appropriate responses and ensure price stability while supporting growth.
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