The NABARD Grade A Phase 2 exam has been scheduled to be held on 25th January 2026. Aspirants who clear the Phase 1 exam will be further shortlisted to appear for the Phase 2 exam. Clearing the NABARD Grade A Phase 2 exam is not just about knowing facts; it is about how effectively you can explain them.
The descriptive writing paper often becomes the deciding factor for selection. With high sectional cut-offs and limited preparation time after Phase 1, a focused strategy for descriptive writing is essential. In this blog, we provide details on what to prepare, how to prepare, and how to practice for the NABARD Grade A Phase 2 descriptive writing paper.
Why is the descriptive paper crucial for final selection?
Many aspirants underestimate the descriptive paper and lose marks despite doing well in objective sections. It tests not only your knowledge but also your ability to present ideas clearly and professionally. High sectional cut-offs prove that descriptive writing can make or break your final selection.
What is the NABARD Grade A phase 2 descriptive writing exam pattern?
The NABARD Grade A Phase 2 descriptive exam checks a candidate’s writing and subject knowledge. It includes General English and Economic & Social Issues (ESI) with Agriculture & Rural Development (ARD).
In General English, candidates answer 3 questions for 100 marks in 90 minutes, typing answers on a keyboard.
In ESI & ARD, candidates attempt any 4 out of 6 questions 2 questions of 15 marks each and 2 of 10 marks each for 50 marks in 90 minutes. Answers can be typed in English or Hindi. This exam evaluates clarity, knowledge, and presentation skills.
| Paper | Type | Questions and Marks | Time | Remarks |
| General English | Descriptive | 3 for 100 marks | 90 Min | Answers to be typed on keyboard |
| Economic & Social Issues + Agriculture & Rural Development | Objective | 30 for 50 marks | 30 Min | Some questions carry 2 marks, some 1 mark |
| Economic & Social Issues + Agriculture & Rural Development | Descriptive | 6 (Attempt any 4) for 50 marks | 90 Min | 2 × 15 marks (hard), 2 × 10 marks; type in English or Hindi |
Check Out: NABARD Grade A Phase 2 Exam Pattern
What type of questions were asked in the NABARD Grade A phase 2 descriptive paper?
The NABARD Grade A Phase 2 descriptive paper mainly consist of questions based on static, and current-based questions from ARD and ESI. These questions tests conceptual clarity, application of concepts, awareness of government schemes, and the ability to link theory with current developments. A clear pattern was seen where static ARD topics were repeatedly asked, sometimes with a slight change in statement, while ESI questions focused on policies, schemes, and economic concepts linked to current affairs.
| Question type | Nature of questions | Examples |
| Static ARD-based | Direct conceptual and theoretical questions from core ARD topics | Cross-breeding in animal husbandry, social forestry (definition, objectives, components), drip irrigation (definition, advantages, limitations), agroforestry |
| Static + current ARD | Core static concept linked with recent developments or policies | Minimum Support Price (concept, need, recommending body, approval process, crops covered, recent values) |
| Current affairs-based ARD | Government schemes and sectoral initiatives related to agriculture and allied sectors | Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana – objectives, implementation period, strategy |
| Static ESI-based | Conceptual economic and social development questions | Public Distribution System and its role in food economy, social infrastructure and inclusive growth |
| Current + static ESI | Policy-oriented questions linking theory with recent trends | WTO policies and their impact on Indian economy, benefits of globalization, declining dependence on non-institutional credit by farmers |
| Short descriptive questions | Direct definition-based or list-type questions | Objectives of extension education, methods of extension education |
| Analytical/comment-type | Opinion-based questions requiring balanced arguments | Role of PDS with challenges, dual impact of WTO policies, benefits and limitations of irrigation practices |
How should you frame your answers for ESI and ARD questions?
When writing answers for ESI and ARD questions, it is important to be structured, concise, and focused. Your answer should have a clear introduction, a well-organized body, and a conclusion, but the introduction and conclusion are only necessary for conceptual or technical questions. Focus on writing key points that match the marking scheme, keeping in mind time management and clarity.
| Section | Key Instructions | Tips |
| Introduction | 10% of marks | Include only if question is conceptual, technical, or requires background. Skip for direct questions. |
| Body/Main Content | 80% of marks | Focus on the core points. Use bullets, arrows, or numbering for clarity. Include all important elements expected in marking scheme. |
| Conclusion | 10% of marks | Summarize key points. Optional for direct questions. |
| Time Management | Critical | Start with direct answer for simple questions. Reserve intro/conclusion for complex questions. |
Which common ESI and ARD topics are asked in the Phase 2 descriptive paper?
The NABARD Grade A Phase 2 descriptive paper consistently focuses on a set of core ARD and ESI topics that are largely static, with questions framed either directly or by linking them with current developments. Repeated areas include animal husbandry, irrigation, forestry, extension education, agricultural policies, rural credit, food security, government schemes, social infrastructure, and global economic issues.
| Subject area | Common topics repeatedly asked |
| Animal husbandry (ARD) | Cross-breeding, methods of cross-breeding |
| Irrigation & water management (ARD) | Drip irrigation |
| Forestry & natural resources (ARD) | Social forestry, agroforestry |
| Agricultural extension (ARD) | Extension education |
| Agricultural policies (ARD) | Minimum Support Price (MSP) |
| Agriculture & allied schemes (ARD) | Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana, NRLM |
| Rural credit & financial inclusion (ARD/ESI) | Institutional vs non-institutional credit |
| Food security systems (ESI) | Public Distribution System (PDS) |
| Economic development (ESI) | Social infrastructure, inclusive growth |
| Global economy & trade (ESI) | Globalisation, WTO policies |
What are the important tips for NABARD Grade A descriptive writing preparation?
To score well in the NABARD Grade A descriptive (ARD) paper, it is important to frame answers in a systematic manner. Before starting to write, first note down all key points on the rough sheet. Plan what to write in the introduction, the main points to be covered in the body, and how to conclude the answer. Following this approach will help you write well-structured answers in all three descriptive sections ESI, ARD, and English.
- Plan before writing: First, list all important points on the rough sheet before starting the answer.
- Introduction: Write a short and clear opening that defines or briefly explains the topic.
- Body of the answer: Mention key facts, concepts, examples, data, or government schemes related to the question.
- Structure: Present points in a logical order using short paragraphs or bullets for clarity.
- Conclusion: End with a positive summary, future outlook, or a way forward.
- Time management: Stick to the word limit and avoid unnecessary explanations.
- Applicability: Follow this same structure for ESI, ARD, and English descriptive answers.
How can you manage time while writing descriptive answers in exams?
Time management is crucial for scoring well in descriptive answers. Begin by reading the question carefully and identifying if it needs an introduction and conclusion.
| Step | Instruction | Tips |
| Question Analysis | Identify type: direct vs conceptual | Decide whether intro/conclusion is needed |
| Presentation | Use bullets, arrows, hashtags | Keep answer neat and readable |
| Avoid | Fancy formatting, unnecessary filler | Focus on key points only |
What are the common essay topics repeatedly asked in NABARD Grade A English paper?
In the NABARD Grade A Phase 2 English paper, essay questions are not random. They are consistently drawn from broad, recurring themes connected to agriculture, rural development, economy, social issues, technology, and sustainability. These themes overlap with ESI, ARD, and current affairs, making them high-probability essay areas every year. Understanding these common topics helps you prepare smartly instead of memorising isolated essays.
| Broad Theme | Common Essay Topics Includes |
| Agriculture & Rural Development | Sustainable agriculture, reforms in agriculture sector, future of Indian agriculture |
| Economy & Development | $5 trillion economy, inflation, rural poverty, employment |
| Environment & Sustainability | Climate change, climate-resilient agriculture, green finance |
| Social Issues | Women empowerment, women safety, poverty, inequality |
| Science & Technology | AI in agriculture, digital education, emerging technologies |
| Government Initiatives | Millets, ethanol blending, startups, Atmanirbhar Bharat |
| Health & Education | Post-pandemic healthcare, privatization of education |
| Finance & Inclusion | Microfinance, financial inclusion, rural credit |
| Governance & Policy | NEP 2020, cooperative institutions, disaster management |
Check out the detailed ESI and ARD preparation guide
How to approach common NABARD essay themes effectively?
To approach common NABARD essay themes effectively, focus on understanding the core theme instead of memorising full essays. Begin by briefly explaining the topic in simple words and linking it to rural development, agriculture, or financial inclusion, which are central to NABARD.
Then, go for 2–3 clear dimensions such as economic impact, social relevance, and future scope. Keep your points balanced by mentioning both benefits and challenges. Use basic examples from current issues rather than heavy data. End the essay with a practical and positive way forward. This approach helps you handle any essay topic confidently, even if the wording changes in the exam.
How to handle letter and report writing questions?
Letter and report writing are high-scoring sections in the descriptive paper if written with the correct structure and tone. Common letter types asked include complaint letters, official correspondence, and request or extension letters.
While evaluating answers, examiners mainly check whether the format is correct, the tone is professional, the purpose is clearly stated, and the content is concise and relevant.For report writing, candidates should focus on maintaining a clear structure, logical flow of ideas, and factual, objective language.
Also Check: Important Government Schemes for NABARD Grade A
What is the syllabus for NABARD Grade A descriptive writing?
The NABARD Grade A syllabus for descriptive writing is largely the same as Phase 1 and Phase 2 objective papers, but you are expected to answer in a more analytical and structured manner.
Paper 1 – General English Topics:
- Essay Writing
- Precis Writing
- Reading Comprehension
- Business & Office Correspondence (Letters/Reports)
Paper 2 – ESI & ARD Topics:
ESI Topics:
- Indian Economy
- Inflation & Population Trends
- Agriculture & Industry
- Rural Banking & Financial Institutions
- Globalisation
- Social Justice & Inclusive Growth
- Education & Social Structure
- Current Economic & Social Issues
ARD Topics:
- Agriculture & Agronomy
- Cropping Systems & Seed Technology
- Soil & Water Conservation
- Farm & Agricultural Engineering
- Horticulture & Plantation Crops
- Animal Husbandry & Fisheries
- Forestry & Agroforestry
- Ecology & Climate Change
- Rural Development & Panchayati Raj
- Present Scenario of Indian Agriculture
How should you prepare ESI & ARD for descriptive answers?
The best strategy is to integrate objective and descriptive preparation. For every topic, structure your answers as follows:
- Build strong clarity of static concepts in both ESI and ARD, as many questions are directly asked from core topics
- Prepare static ARD topics thoroughly such as animal husbandry, irrigation, forestry, agroforestry, and extension education
- Link static concepts with current affairs, especially for schemes, policies, and agriculture-related developments
- Focus on ESI fundamentals like economic concepts, social infrastructure, inclusive growth, globalization, and food security
- Study government schemes and policies with objectives, features, implementation, and relevance
- Analyse previous year questions to understand repeated themes and examiner’s approach
- Practise answer writing regularly within the prescribed word limits (400 words for 10 marks, 600 words for 15 marks)
- Follow a clear structure: definition – explanation – advantages/challenges – examples – conclusion
- Use simple language, relevant examples, and balanced arguments instead of rote learning
How much practice is required for NABARD Grade A descriptive paper?
For the NABARD Grade A descriptive paper, regular and focused practice is essential. Candidates should write answers, practise typing them on a computer, and memorise key points starting with 3–4 days a week in the initial phase and shifting to daily practice in the last few weeks before the exam.
For ARD, preparation should focus on core static topics such as animal husbandry, irrigation, forestry, extension education, and important agriculture-related schemes, as these areas are repeatedly asked with minor changes. For ESI, candidates should practise answers on economic concepts, government policies, social sector issues, and current affairs linkages, with a clear and balanced approach.
Along with content, typing speed plays a key role in the descriptive paper. Aspirants should aim for 30–35 words per minute with accuracy by practising 15–20 minutes daily on a keyboard. Writing full-length answers in simple language, using pre-planned answer structures, and avoiding unnecessary complexity helps save time, manage word limits, and build the speed and confidence needed to perform well in the exam.
FAQs
The NABARD Grade A phase 2 exam scheduled to be held on 25th January 2026.
It tests clarity of thought, presentation, and can significantly impact final selection.
Paper 1 English Descriptive (100 marks, 90 min); Paper 2 ESI & ARD Descriptive (50 marks, 90 min).
Essay, Precis, Letter/Report writing, and Reading Comprehension.
ESI: Economy, Banking, Social Issues; ARD: Agriculture, Horticulture, Animal Husbandry, Rural Development, Ecology.
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