NABARD Exam 2025: Eligibility, Syllabus, and Preparation Tips

NABARD Exam 2025: Eligibility, Syllabus, and Preparation Tips

The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) is one of the most prestigious institutions in India, playing a pivotal role in the development of agriculture and rural areas. Every year, NABARD conducts recruitment exams to hire Assistant Managers (Grade A) and Managers (Grade B) for various roles. The NABARD exam is highly competitive, and aspirants need to be well-prepared to secure a position. This comprehensive guide will cover the eligibility criteria, syllabus, and preparation tips for the NABARD Exam 2025.

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NABARD Exam 2025: Overview

The NABARD exam is conducted in three phases:

1. Preliminary Exam (Phase I)

2. Main Exam (Phase II)

3. Interview (Phase III)

Candidates must clear each phase to progress to the next. The exam is conducted online and tests candidates on various subjects, including reasoning, quantitative aptitude, English language, economic and social issues, agriculture, and rural development.

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Eligibility Criteria for NABARD Exam 2025

Before applying for the NABARD exam, candidates must ensure they meet the eligibility criteria. The eligibility requirements are divided into three categories: Age Limit, Educational Qualification, and Nationality.

1. Age Limit

• The minimum age limit is 21 years, and the maximum age limit is 30 years as of a specified date (to be announced in the official notification).

• Age relaxation is provided for reserved categories as per government norms:

  • SC/ST: Up to 5 years

  • OBC: Up to 3 years

  • PwD: Up to 10 years

  • Ex-Servicemen: Up to 5 years

2. Educational Qualification

The educational qualification varies depending on the post applied for. Below are the details:

For Grade A (Assistant Manager)

• General: Bachelor’s degree in any discipline with a minimum of 60% marks (50% for SC/ST/PwD).

• Agriculture: Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture/Animal Husbandry/Veterinary Science/Dairy Science/Agricultural Engineering/Fishery Science with 60% marks (50% for SC/ST/PwD).

• Finance: Bachelor’s degree in Finance/Accounting/Economics/Banking with 60% marks (50% for SC/ST/PwD).

• IT: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science/IT/Computer Applications with 60% marks (50% for SC/ST/PwD).

For Grade B (Manager)

• General: Master’s degree in any discipline or Bachelor’s degree with 60% marks (50% for SC/ST/PwD) and relevant work experience.

• Agriculture: Master’s degree in Agriculture/Animal Husbandry/Veterinary Science/Dairy Science/Agricultural Engineering/Fishery Science with 60% marks (50% for SC/ST/PwD) and relevant work experience.

3. Nationality

• Candidates must be Indian citizens or subjects of Nepal/Bhutan, or Tibetan refugees who came to India before January 1, 1962.

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NABARD Exam 2025 Syllabus

The NABARD exam syllabus is divided into two phases: Preliminary Exam and Main Exam. The syllabus for both phases is detailed below.

Phase I: Preliminary Exam

The preliminary exam is an online objective test with a total of 200 marks. It consists of the following sections:

1. Reasoning Ability (20 Marks)

   • Logical Reasoning

   • Puzzles

   • Seating Arrangement

   • Syllogism

   • Coding-Decoding

   • Blood Relations

2. English Language (40 Marks)

   • Reading Comprehension

   • Grammar

   • Vocabulary

   • Sentence Improvement

   • Error Detection

3. Quantitative Aptitude (20 Marks)

   • Number Series

   • Data Interpretation

   • Simplification

   • Quadratic Equations

   • Arithmetic Problems

4. Computer Knowledge (20 Marks)

   • Basics of Computers

   • Internet

   • MS Office

   • Networking

   • Cybersecurity

5. General Awareness (20 Marks)

   • Current Affairs (National and International)

   • Banking Awareness

   • Economic News

   • Government Schemes

6. Economic and Social Issues (40 Marks)

   • Poverty Alleviation

   • Inflation

   • Social Justice

   • Sustainable Development

   • Rural Development

7. Agriculture and Rural Development (40 Marks)

   • Agricultural Practices

   • Crop Production

   • Soil Health

   • Rural Banking

   • Government Schemes for Agriculture

Phase II: Main Exam

The main exam is also conducted online and consists of both objective and descriptive papers. The syllabus is as follows:

Paper I: General English (Descriptive)

• Essay Writing

• Precis Writing

• Comprehension

• Report Writing

Paper II: Economic and Social Issues (Objective)

• Indian Economy

• Social Structure in India

• Globalization

• Sustainable Development

• Rural Development Programs

Paper III: Agriculture and Rural Development (Objective)

• Agricultural Economics

• Farm Management

• Rural Credit System

• Agricultural Marketing

• Government Policies for Agriculture

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Preparation Tips for NABARD Exam 2025

Preparing for the NABARD exam requires a strategic approach. Here are some tips to help you ace the exam:

1. Understand the Syllabus and Exam Pattern

• Familiarize yourself with the syllabus and exam pattern for both phases.

• Focus on high-weightage topics like Economic and Social Issues, and Agriculture and Rural Development.

2. Create a Study Plan

• Divide your time effectively between all subjects.

• Allocate more time to weaker sections while revising stronger ones regularly.

3. Study Material

• Refer to standard books like:

  • Economic and Social Issues: “Indian Economy” by Ramesh Singh

  • Agriculture and Rural Development: “Agriculture at a Glance” by R.K. Sharma

  • General Awareness: Newspapers like The Hindu and Economic Times

4. Practice Mock Tests

• Take online mock tests to improve time management and accuracy.

• Analyze your performance and work on weak areas.

5. Focus on Current Affairs

• Stay updated with current affairs, especially related to agriculture, rural development, and the economy.

• Read monthly current affairs magazines and follow reliable news sources.

6. Improve Writing Skills

• For the descriptive paper, practice essay writing, precis writing, and comprehension regularly.

• Focus on clarity, coherence, and grammar.

7. Revise Regularly

• Revise key concepts and formulas frequently.

• Make short notes for quick revision before the exam.

8. Stay Healthy and Positive

• Maintain a healthy lifestyle to stay focused and energetic.

• Stay positive and confident throughout your preparation.

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FAQs About NABARD Exam 2025

1. Is there negative marking in the NABARD exam?

• Yes, there is a penalty of 0.25 marks for each wrong answer in the objective sections.

2. Can final-year students apply for the NABARD exam?

• Yes, final-year students can apply, provided they submit their final mark sheet before the specified date.

3. What is the salary of a NABARD Grade A officer?

• The starting salary of a NABARD Grade A officer is approximately ₹44,500 per month, including allowances.

4. How many attempts are allowed for the NABARD exam?

• There is no restriction on the number of attempts, provided the candidate meets the age and eligibility criteria.

5. Is the NABARD exam conducted in Hindi?

• Yes, the exam is conducted in both English and Hindi, except for the English language section.

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Conclusion

The NABARD Exam 2025 is a golden opportunity for candidates aspiring to work in the rural and agricultural development sector. With the right preparation strategy, dedication, and consistent effort, you can crack the exam and secure a prestigious position in NABARD. Focus on understanding the syllabus, practicing mock tests, and staying updated with current affairs to enhance your chances of success. And once you achieve your goal and secure the job, if you need reliable packers and movers services to shift from one place to another, make sure to choose a trusted service provider for a smooth and hassle-free relocation experience. Good luck!