The UPSC Manipuri optional Syllabus 2026 aims to examine candidates’ proficiency in the Manipuri language. Additionally, it assesses their in-depth acquaintance with the literary culture of Manipuri. The syllabus is divided into two papers, which together carry a total of 250 marks each. Therefore, the optional subject accounts for a total of 500 marks.
Paper I focuses on the development of historical and classical literature in Manipuri. In contrast, Paper II emphasizes contemporary literature and includes a critical analysis of the texts.
In this article, we will look into the UPSC Manipuri optional syllabus for 2026.
Overview of the UPSC Optional Syllabus for Manipuri
The UPSC Optional syllabus for Manipuri for the UPSC exam 2026 tests candidates’ knowledge on the history of Manipuri literature. Moreover, it emphasizes the important authors and texts within this literary tradition. Additionally, the syllabus aims to equip candidates with a holistic insight into literary trends. These trends include styles, linguistic alterations, and various cultural settings.
Furthermore, the syllabus encompasses genres such as poetry, prose, drama, and literary criticism. This inclusion allows students to critically analyze and appreciate the diverse facets of Manipuri literature. As a result, they can explore its origins in classical times and track developments into modern times.
To strengthen answer writing, aspirants should regularly refer to this Current affairs pdf for relevant cultural context.
| Overview of UPSC Manipuri Optional Syllabus | ||
| Mains Papers | Subject | Marks |
| Paper VI | Manipuri Literature Optional Paper 1 | 250 |
| Paper VII | Manipuri Literature Optional Paper 2 | 250 |
| Total | 500 | |
| Time Duration | 3 hours | |
1. Manipuri Literature UPSC Optional Syllabus for Paper 1
Paper 1 of the Manipuri Literature UPSC Optional syllabus addresses the historical and classical nature of Manipuri literature. It begins with the origin and development of the Manipuri language. Specifically, it covers its historical background, phonetics, morphology, and syntax. Furthermore, it highlights and discusses the classical and medieval Manipuri literatures. These discussions are based prominently on the works and the resultant impacts from a cultural context.
- Applicants need to apply critical analysis to various ancient texts by authors such as Hijam Anganghal and Khwairakpam Chaoba.
- Explore the following aspects:
- Themes presented in the texts
- Narration skills used by the authors
- Styles followed by these writers
- The study of traditional folklore is an important aspect of this analysis. Â
- Focus areas include:
- Folk and mythological legends Â
- Various folktales that symbolize the inbuilt values within a society Â
Moreover, the UPSC Manipuri optional syllabus sheds light on the early developments of Manipuri prose and poetry. It also examines the early contributions made by writers and poets in depth. Overall, this comprehensive approach gives students a thorough understanding of Manipuri literature’s rich heritage.
Below is the UPSC Manipuri optional syllabus for Paper 1:
| UPSC Manipuri Optional Syllabus for Paper 1 | |
| Section | Topics of Manipuri UPSC Syllabus |
| Section-A | |
| Language | General characteristics of the Manipuri Language and history of its development; importance and status among the Tibeto-Burman Languages of North-East India; recent development in the study of the Manipuri Language; evolution and study of the old Manipuri script. |
| Significant features of the Manipuri Language | Phonology: Phoneme-vowels, consonants, juncture, tone, consonant cluster and its occurrence, syllable-its structure, pattern and types. |
| Morphology: Word-class, root and its types; affix and its types; grammatical categories-gender, number, person, case, tense and aspects, process of compounding (samas and sandhi). | |
| Syntax: Word order; types of sentences, phrases and clause structures. | |
| Section-B | |
| Literary History of Manipuri | Early period (up to the 17th Century)–Social and cultural background; Themes, diction and style of the works. |
| Medieval period (18th and 19th Century)-Social, religious and political background; Themes, diction and style of the works. | |
| Modern period-Growth of major literary forms; change of Themes, diction and style. | |
| Manipuri Folk Literature | Legend, Folktale, Folksong, Ballad, Proverb and Riddle. |
| Aspects of Manipuri Culture | Pre-Hindu Manipuri Faith; Advent of Hinduism and the process of syncretism; |
| Performing arts-Lai Haraoba, Maha Ras; | |
| Indigenous games-Sagol Kangjei, Khong Kangjei, Kang. | |
2. UPSC Manipuri Optional Syllabus for Paper 2
Paper 2 of the Manipuri Literature UPSC syllabus explores the modern dimensions of Manipuri literature. It covers the present-day aspects of contemporary Manipuri poetry, drama, prose, and literary criticism. This UPSC Manipuri Optional syllabus sheds light on the developments in modern Manipuri poetry. For instance, it focuses on vital poets and their works that depict modern themes and concerns.
- Addresses the development of Manipuri drama through influential playwrights.
- Highlights their contributions to modern theatre.
- Analyzes narrative techniques, thematic concerns, and stylistic innovations of:
- Modern short stories
- Novels
- Essays
- A major part of Paper 2 focuses on literary criticism.
- Requires analysis of contributions from significant Manipuri literary critics and theories.
Additionally, it encompasses modern trends and movements. It also discusses the influence of translation, which is intended to expand and familiarize audiences with the world of Manipuri literature.
Below is the UPSC Manipuri optional syllabus for Paper 2:
| UPSC Manipuri Optional Syllabus for Paper 2 | |
| Section | Topics of Manipuri UPSC Syllabus |
| Section-A | |
| Old Manipuri Literature | O. Bhogeswar Singh (Ed.): Numit Kappa |
| M. Gourachandra Singh (Ed.): Thawanthaba Hiran | |
| N. Khelchandra Singh (Ed.): Naothingkhong Phambal Kaba | |
| M. Chandra Singh (Ed.): Panthoibi Khongul | |
| Medieval Manipuri Literature | M. Chandra Singh (Ed.): Samsok Ngamba |
| R.K. Snahal Singh (Ed.): Ramayana Adi Kanda | |
| N. Khelchandra Singh (Ed.): Dhananjoy Laibu Ningba | |
| O. Bhogeswar Singh (Ed.): Chandrakirti Jila Changba | |
| Section B – Modern Manipuri Literature | |
| Poetry | Kh. Chaoba Singh: Pi Thadoi, Lamgi Chekla Amada, Loktak |
| Dr. L. Kamal Singh: Nirjanata, Nirab Rajani | |
| A. Minaketan Singh: Kamal Da, Nonggumlalk Khoda | |
| L. Samarendra Singh: Ingagi Nong, Mamang Leikai Thambal Satle | |
| E. Nilakanta Singh: Manipur, Lamangnaba | |
| Shri Biren: Tangkhul Hui | |
| Th. Ibopishak: Anouba Thunglaba Jiba | |
| Dr. L. Kamal Singh: Biswa Prem | |
| Shri Biren: Chaphadraba Laigi Yen | |
| Th. Ibopishak: Norok Patal Prithivi | |
| Epic | A. Dorendrajit Singh: Kansa Bodha |
| H. Anganghal Singh: Khamba-Thoibi Sheireng (San-Senba, Lei Langba, Shamu Khonggi Bichar) | |
| Drama | S. Lalit Singh: Areppa Marup |
| G.C. Tongbra: Matric Pass | |
| A. Samarendra: Judge Saheb ki Imung | |
| Novel | Dr. L. Kamal Singh: Madhabi |
| H. Anganghal Singh: Jahera H. | |
| Guno Singh: Laman | |
| Pacha Meetei: Imphal Amasung, Magi Ishing, Nungsitki Phibam | |
| Short Story | Kanchi Warimacha (Pub) Manipur University 1997 (Ed.) |
| R.K. Shitaljit Singh: Kamala Kamala | |
| M.K. Binodini: Eigi Thahoudraba Heitup Lalu | |
| Kh. Prakash: Wanom Shareng | |
| Parishadki Khangatlaba Warimacha (Pub) Manipuri Sahitya Parishad 1994 (Ed.) | |
| S. Nilbir Shastri: Loukhatpa | |
| R.K. Elangba: Karinunggi | |
| Anouba Manipuri Warimacha (Pub) The Cultural Forum Manipur 1992 (Ed.) | |
| N. Kunjamohon Singh: Ijat Tanba | |
| E. Dinamani: Nongthak Khongnang | |
| Prose | Warenggi Saklon [Due Part] (Pub) The Cultural Forum Manipur 1992 (Ed.) |
| Kh. Chaoba Singh: Khamba-Thoibigi Wari Amasung Mahakavya | |
| Kanchi Wareng (Pub) Manipur University, 1998 (Ed.) | |
| B. Manisana Shastri: Phajaba | |
| Ch. Manihar Singh: Lai-Haraoba | |
| Apunba Wareng (Pub) Manipur University, 1986 (Ed.) | |
| Ch. Pishak Singh: Samaj Amasung Sanskriti | |
| M.K. Binodini: Thoibidu Warouhouida | |
| Eric Newton: Kalagi Mahousa (translated by I.R. Babu) | |
| Manipuri Wareng (Pub) The Cultural Forum Manipur 1999 (Ed.) | |
| S. Krishnamohan Singh: Lan | |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the UPSC Manipuri Optional Syllabus for 2026 offers a key framework for understanding Manipuri literature. This framework plays a crucial role in enhancing candidates’ preparation for the exam. Therefore, it serves as an important resource for those aiming to excel in their studies.
Guidance from the Best UPSC Coaching in Guwahati helps aspirants effectively integrate optional preparation with GS studies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Manipuri Literature Syllabus of UPSC has two papers of 250 marks each and accounts for 500 marks.
Paper 1 covers historical background and Classical Elements of Manipuri Literature; the old and the medieval texts, folk literature and early stages of Prose and Poetry in the manuscript.
Paper 2 deals with the modern Manipuri literature, comprising contemporary poetry, drama, prose, narrative techniques, and literary criticism.
Both papers have a study of Manipuri literary criticism. Paper 2 is particularly a collection of contributions by the major literary critics and contemporary trends.
