Biotechnology — Genomics, GMO, Vaccines, CRISPR, Biosafety & Health Tech

What should you study in Biotechnology?

• AI — machine learning, deep learning, generative AI applications & risks
• Semiconductors — chip design, OSAT, India Semiconductor Mission
• Quantum computing — qubits, quantum supremacy, India's NQM
• Cybersecurity — threats, CERT-In, IT Act, data protection

How often is Biotechnology asked in UPSC Prelims?

Asked in 7 of 10 years, including 4 of the last 5. Highlighted years below are the ones it appeared in.

1. 2016: not asked
2. 2017: not asked
3. 2018: asked
4. 2019: asked
5. 2020: asked
6. 2021: asked
7. 2022: asked
8. 2023: asked
9. 2024: not asked
10. 2025: asked

About the Prelims GS Paper I paper

General Studies Paper I is the Prelims paper that decides the cut-off: 100 multiple-choice questions for 200 marks, with negative marking for wrong answers. See all 88 Prelims GS Paper I topics.

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